Ahwatukee Foothills News - Oct. 5, 2016

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Freeway injunction would cost taxpayers ‘millions,’ government lawyers say

REAL ESTATE Ahwatukee home sells for $1.4 million in 17 days.

RE1

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN EXECUTIVE EDITOR

T

FAIR LADY Local woman is State Fair’s second in command. 3

GOLF COMMUNITIES Mayor sympathetic to homeowners’ plight. 8

SENATE DUEL Senate candidates name their top issue. 34

MARKING 25 YEARS Ahwatukee Carpet celebrates a quarter century here. 38 Community 20 Around AF 24 Opinion 34 Faith 42

Business 38 Sports/Rec 44 GetOut 50 Classified 53

(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer)

Lofting the first annual Ahwatukee Bowl Trophy from the Ahwatukee Foothills News are Mountain Point High football team captains, from left, Eddie Rivas, Rashie Hodge, Jr. and Jaydon Brooks. Mountain Pointe beat crosstown rivals Desert Vista 27 to 13 in the 20th annual bowl.

First-ever Ahwatukee Bowl trophy awarded to winner Mountain Pointe High COVER STORY

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN EXECUTIVE EDITOR

T

he 20th annual Ahwatukee Bowl gave birth to a new tradition Friday as the Ahwatukee Foothills News presented the Ahwatukee Bowl Trophy.

The trophy is designed to be engraved with each year’s winner and will be displayed

throughout the year at the winning school until the next year’s bowl game.

The winners of all 20 Ahwatukee Bowl games also will be engraved on the trophy to create a lasting tribute to Desert Vista and Mountain Pointe high schools’ varsity football teams.

The trophy also recognizes the Ahwatukee Bowl as a signature event for the community,

TUKEE on page 11

>> See

he legal fight over the South Mountain Freeway escalated last week as federal and state attorneys raised the specter of mounting costs to taxpayers if a judge halts its construction. The possible delay in construction would occur while opponents appeal the judge’s ruling against them.

At about the same time, the Arizona Department of Transportation unveiled a partial redesign of the freeway to nearly 500 Ahwatukee residents. During that meeting, police ousted about a dozen Native American protesters who had walked 10 miles to attend the event.

The exchange of legal arguments came in connection with opponents’ request to U.S. District Judge Diane Humetewa for an injunction blocking construction of the freeway until the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit could consider their appeal.

Arguments were made by the U.S. Attorney’s office and lawyers for both the Gila River Indian Community and Ahwatukeebased Protect Arizona’s Resources >> See

FREEWAY on page 9

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Page 2

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

NEIGHBORS

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

1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway, Suite 219, Tempe, AZ, 85282 CONTACT INFORMATION Main number: 480-898-7900 Circulation service: 480-898-7900

PUBLISHER:

Steve T. Strickbine

ADVERTISING STAFF Sales Director: Scott Stowers, 480-898-5624, scott@timespublications.com National Advertising Director Zac Reynolds 480-898-5603 zac@ahwatukee.com National Account Coordinator: Patty Dixie 480-898-5940, pdixie@ahwatukee.com Advertising Sales Representatives: Karen Mays, 480-898-7909, kmays@ahwatukee.com Laura Meehan, 480-898-7904, lmeehan@ahwatukee.com Classified: Elaine Cota, 480-898-7926, ecota@ahwatukee.com Circulation Director: Aaron Kolodny 480-898-5641, aaron@azintegratedmedia.com

NEWS STAFF Editor In Chief: Robbie Peterson, 480-898-5638, rpeterson@timespublications.com Executive Editor: Paul Maryniak, 480-898-5647, pmaryniak@timespublications.com Managing Editors: Ralph Zubiate, 480-898-6825, rzubiate@timespublications.com Lee Shappell, 480-898-5614, Lshappell@timespublications.com GetOut Editor: Christina Fuoco-Karasinski, 480-898-5612, christina@timespublications.com Art Director: Erica Odello, 480-898-5616, erica@timespublications.com Designer: Ruth Carlton, 480-898-5644, rcarlton@timespublications.com News Advertising Designer: Christy Byerly 480-898-5651 cbyerly@evtrib.com Reporters: Jim Walsh, 480-898-5639 jwalshe@timespublications.com Mike Butler, 480-898-5630 mbutler@ahwatukee.com Prep Sports Director: Jason P. Skoda, 480-898-7915, jskoda@ahwatukee.com Photographers: Will Powers, 480-898-5646, wpowers@timespublications.com Cheryl Haselhorst, 480-898-7900, chaselhorst@timespublications.com Write a letter To submit a letter, please include your full name. Our policy is not to run anonymous letters. Please keep the length to 300 words. Letters will be run on a space-available basis. Please send your contributions to pmaryniak@ ahwatukee.com.

Editorial content The Ahwatukee Foothills News expresses its opinion. Opinions expressed in guest commentaries, perspectives, cartoons or letters to the editor are those of the author.

Advertising content The content and claims of any advertisement are the sole responsibility of the advertiser. The Ahwatukee Foothills News assumes no responsibility for the claims or content of any advertisement. © Strickbine Publishing, Inc.

(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer)

Jen Yee of Ahwatukee calls her position as assistant director of the Arizona Exposition & State Fair “a dream job.”

Our fair lady enjoys ‘dream job’

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

We donate 5% of fees paid to We.org in your name.

Visit for more information: www.oraclelawgroup.com/community-involvement

W

hen 40-year Ahwatukee resident Jen Yee was a junior at Corona del Sol, she slept outside of Dillard’s at Fiesta Mall in the hopes of buying front-row tickets to a Rick Springfield concert.

She didn’t get them and, she admitted, she cried.

“I thought there has to be a better way to do this,” Yee said mischievously.

So Yee, 48, went into the radio and concert business and then landed her “dream job”—assistant executive director of the Arizona State Fair, where she has been for 16 years.

One of her responsibilities is booking the musicians who play the State Fair. This year, that includes a variety of acts, ranging from the metal act Slayer to the electronic dance music trio Cash Cash.

“The response on Slayer has been amazing,” she said. “I get a lot of, ‘I can’t believe the fair has Slayer.’

Yeah, but back in the day, the fair had Kiss, Jane’s Addiction. This fair, specifically, has been able to break through and get those artists that no other fair could get.”

Tickets for the concerts are free with fair tickets for general admission. Premium assigned seating costs an average of $20.

Yee said her goal in booking this year’s shows was to attract younger crowds.

“We are trying to target millennial moms and a little younger,” said Yee, who hasn’t missed an Arizona State Fair in 48 years.

“We’re trying to build that younger traditional— >> See

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

NEIGHBORS

from page 3

the high schoolers or the tweeners. For the tweeners, we have Jack and Jack. Jack and Jack played before and it literally reminded me of Rick Springfield. This girl was five feet away from them at a meet and greet and she passed out. We had to call the paramedics and everything.”

It is those memories—or lack thereof— that Yee is trying to instill in fairgoers.

“We want them a little bit younger to build memories and traditions so, when they get older, they’ll bring their kids back and create the memories,” she said, adding: “After all, I had so much fun here in high school. We were riding the rides that made us sick with our friends and the date nights. ‘Oh, win a stuffed animal for me.’ I just can’t go on things that go in the circle. I’m absolutely done with rides.”

The price points for concert tickets are low because she wants to get people into the fair to enjoy the shows, and then have them wander around the fairgrounds to try corndogs or rides.

The fun goes beyond the concerts.

Rock U: The Institute of Rock ‘n’ Roll” is a hands-on exhibit that focuses on five

areas—founders, concert experience, listening to music; the playing experience; rock college and one-hit wonders. Admission is $5 and children younger than 5 are admitted free with a paid adult.

“It’s not like the MIM,” Yee said, referring to the Musical Instrument Museum in north Phoenix. “It’s not that in-depth. It’s targeted for elementary or primary school kids.

“There are electronic drum kits, acoustic guitars, electric guitars. It has a tribute to the British Invasion. There’s a pop op of Abbey Road and a surfboard with a wave made out of vinyl.”

Yee explained she saw the exhibit in North Carolina, where the admission was $18. “We try to bring these educational components in for a lesser price,” she said.

The fair also features a preview of Lights of the World Lantern Festival, which comes to Rawhide Nov. 18-Jan. 29.

“It’s so pretty,” Yee said. “It’s magnificent and, on the back of the concert ticket, there’s a $5-off coupon for the Rawhide event.

Food is another priority at the Arizona State Fair. There are the run-the-mill foods like corndogs, funnel cake with powdered sugar and turkey legs. Vendors

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will also sell deep fried banana splits and Butterfingers, along with cherry and peach supreme funnel cakes, bacon Nutella pickles and Oreo churros.

“Anything deep fried you can think of, of course we have that,” she said enthusiastically.

But, for Yee, it all comes down to rock ‘n’ roll.

“Now, I’ve met Rick Springfield many times—just Aderyn Bright because I can.”

Marketing the chamber

The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce has named Aderyn Bright as its marketing and events manager.

The Tucson native, who only two months ago moved back to Arizona after living with her husband five years in Washington, D.C., said she’s delighted to be back in her home state especially before winter sets in on the East Coast.

When she’s not leading marketing efforts and strengthening the chamber’s engagement with the local business

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community, she’ll be showing off Arizona to her husband, who had never been here before.

But his first destination won’t be their choice: their 2-year-old daughter insisted on seeing the giant meteor crater in Arizona. “For some reason she’s fascinated with craters and when she heard a crater was in Arizona, she couldn’t wait,” Bright (Special to AFN) said.

Prior to joining the chamber, Bright served as events and marketing coordinator for Community Forklift in Edmonston, Maryland, where “she delivered insightful and creative services for the nationally recognized organization,” said Anne Gill, chamber president/CEO. Bright “planned, coordinated and implemented all internal and external events, workshops and networking sessions, as well as the organization’s communications and social media presence,” Gill added.

Bright said, “I am thrilled to be joining the Ahwatukee Chamber team.”

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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

Page 5

DiCiccio blames police hiring lag for increase in Phoenix crime

BY JIM WALSH AFN STAFF WRITER

P

hoenix recorded a 5.9 percent increase in violent crime during 2015 and a 4.4 percent decline in property crime—a reflection of national trends, according to the FBI’s annual Uniform Crime Report.

But Phoenix City Council member Sal DiCiccio, said the national trend is of little solace.

He said it’s no surprise that violent crime is creeping upwards in Phoenix when the number of police officers has been falling for years—the result, he asserted, of politicians making policing a lower priority.

“The increase in violent crimes is very concerning. This is a bad trend line.

What is even more concerning is that the city of Phoenix has 500 fewer police officers than it did in 2009,’’ DiCiccio said.

“This was is a very bad decision,” he added. “Politicians found ways to fund non-strategic functions and at the same time, allow police officers to be shorted

in our communities and neighborhoods.

And then to add the vitriolic political attacks on our police officers becomes a compounding impact on all public safety. “ DiCiccio said Phoenix officials put too low of a priority on police and now find themselves in a rush to hire more officers. He said the rookies start in patrol and veteran officers are needed to supervise them in performing a difficult job.

“You have a perfect storm in place. I am worried about the next few years,’’ he said.

Sgt. John Howard, a Phoenix police spokesman, said his department has hired nearly 300 new officers and is actively recruiting more. Those moves come after an eight-year period that saw no significant police hiring.

Howard confirmed that DiCiccio is correct on the department’s staffing.

Phoenix has about 2,750 officers but full capacity, an elusive number for most police departments, is 3,250.

But Howard said the Phoenix Police Department has been putting more

New Phoenix top cop faces different crime scene

BY JIM WALSH AFN STAFF WRITER

N

ew Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams faces a much higher level of crime when she starts her new job next week after serving 5 ½ years as the top cop in Oxnard, California.

Oxnard, a suburb northwest of Los Angeles with an estimated population of 207,221, has crime levels that are more similar to Tempe than Phoenix, according to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Report.

Oxnard, near Ventura, recorded 884

violent crimes in 2014 and 920 in 2015, a 4.1 percent increase. Property crime rose 4.9 percent in 2015, to 6,696 from 6,382. Oxnard had 11 murders in 2014 and 12 in 2015.

Williams knows the challenge she faces better than just about any new chief. She spent most of her career with Phoenix police, rising from recruit in 1988 to assistant chief in 2009.

Williams is replacing retiring Joseph Yahner as Phoenix police chief. Williams arrives at the Phoenix Police Department Oct. 11 and will be sworn in on Oct. 28.

officers on the street this year than in the recent past and is working hard to attract top local candidates.

“We have had people retiring for the better part of the decade. We are hiring and actively recruiting,’’ Howard said.

“We are attracting a strong and diverse group of officers.’’

Howard said if the rise of violent crime was only in Phoenix, there would be a more direct correlation with the Phoenix police’s staffing issues. But that is not the case.

Nationally, the Uniform Crime Report recorded a 3.9 percent increase in violent crime and a 2.6 percent decline in property crime. It was the first rise in violent crime in three years.

Perhaps the most alarming number of all was a 10.8 percent increase in murder nationally.

The Uniform Crime report also reports is a downward long-term trend in crime overall, citing a .7 percent decrease in violent crime from 2011 and a 16.5 percent decline from 2006.

In Phoenix, murder dropped 1.8 percent, with 112 slayings in 2015

compared with 114 in 2014.

But increases were recorded in several other violent crime categories. Assault rose 9. 3 percent, robbery was up 2.3 percent and rape was up 1 percent.

The more encouraging figures were in property crime, with burglary down 10.6 percent, larceny and theft down 3.3 percent and arson down 22 percent.

Howard noted that many violent crimes are difficult for police to prevent.

“I don’t know if many of them are preventable, even with more officers,’’ he said. “It’s a national trend. We hope it’s a short one.’’

Phoenix would not rank as one of the nation’s more violent cities.

The Uniform Crime Report cautions against comparing cities against each other, noting that there are too many variables to make many general observations. It also notes that each city has its own demographics and its own character.

But when Phoenix is compared with cities of a similar size, it looks better than See

CRIME STATS on page 7

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

CRIME STATS

from page 6

some and worse than others.

Philadelphia, a city that resembles Phoenix only in population, has nearly twice the volume of violent crime.

Murder increased to 280 in 2015 from 248 in 2014, a 12.9 percent increase.

Property crime rates were similar in both cities.

Philadelphia has an estimated population of 1,567,810 according to the FBI report, about 8,000 more residents than Phoenix.

San Antonio, the next closest city to Phoenix with 1,463,000 residents, has a smaller number of violent crimes but a higher property crime rate. It recorded 103 murders in 2014 and 94 in 2015.

Dallas, with 1.3 million residents, has a similar level of violent crime as Phoenix and somewhat lower property crime. But Dallas also had more murders.

Chandler Police Chief Sean Duggan, president of the East Valley Police Chief ’s Association, said each city has its own issues, but stressed that modern policing and cooperation with residents is helping police to reduce crime.

“There’s no question about it. We are policing much more efficiently and

smarter,’’ Duggan said. “Technology has changed the nature of police work.’’

“We share resources,’’ he said. Instead of simply reacting to crime, “most of what we do is predetermined and based on our data. It’s data-driven,’’ Duggan said, adding: “When the officers are on the street, they have a better awareness of what is trending in their geographic area.’’

Through predictive analysis, police allocate resources based upon the time and location where they believe crimes are most likely to occur.

Duggan said it is important to keep crime in prospective and not to dwell on short-term increases in one specific crime from one year to another.

Chandler’s number of major crimes was the same in 2015 as in 1988, when the city had 85,000 residents, compared with more than 258,000 today.

“Crime in general, over our generation, has been tremendously downward,’’ Duggan said. “This is the safest our country has been in our lifetime.’’

Tempe’s major crimes serve as a good example.

During a 10-year period in Tempe, they crimes dropped from 13,758 in 2006 to 8,428 in 2015, a steep 61 percent decline.

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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016

Page 7

Phoenix mayor expresses sympathy for Ahwatukee Lakes and Club West residents

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN EXECUTIVE EDITOR

M

ayor Greg Stanton expressed his sympathy for homeowners at two Ahwatukee golf-course communities, but expressed strong doubts that at least one of them would ever again be a home for fairways and greens.

Speaking at a breakfast sponsored by the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce on Friday, Stanton said the challenges confronting Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club and Club West Golf Course were no different from the problems confronting golf-course communities across the country, and vowed he would “work closely together” with residents to find a fair resolution to their concerns.

He noted how many golf-community residents bought homes at the peak

of interest in the game and how the sport’s popularity seemed assured. Now that interest in golf is sinking, he said, “Who cannot feel for these people, who had bought homes under those circumstances?”

Stanton’s remarks came at the end of a speech that touted the state of the city as well as the accomplishments of several Ahwatukee companies and several improvements in city services that he said would benefit local residents directly.

He noted that when he took office in 2012, “we had not yet come out of the brunt of the mortgage crisis,” and that now the city had seen the creation of 10,000 jobs last year and was on target to see that again this year.

Stanton, who as a city councilman represented Ahwatukee for nine years before becoming mayor, also previewed a new program he is unveiling soon that

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(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer)

Mayor Greg Stanton shares a light moment with Karen Hickok and Village Planning Committee Chairman Chad Blostone at the Chamber of Commerce breakfast.

will help military veterans start up their own businesses.

He said the city would be opening a business incubator called The Armory that would be exclusively devoted to helping veterans become entrepreneurs.

Some of the specific Ahwatukee improvements he noted included: • Expanded bus service. Stanton, whose father took the bus to work every day, said that in a few weeks city buses will run on a 4 a.m.-midnight schedule.

“The longest interval will be a half hour and most intervals will be 15 minutes,” he said.

• Street repairs. He said that thanks to the approval of city Proposition 104, about $3 billion will be available for improvements. “Because of budget cuts over the years, the replacement schedule for arterials has been extended too long.”

He encouraged residents to complain if they run into rugged stretches of streets in Ahwatukee.

“If you know of a particular pothole, let me and Councilman (Sal) DiCiccio know, because you did vote for Proposition 104,” Stanton said.

In his brief remarks about the golf course communities, Stanton acknowledged that Ahwatukee Lakes and Club West faced different problems.

He directly linked the decline in golf to the Lakes’ problems, and while he did not comment directly on True Life

Companies’ Ahwatukee Farms proposal, he suggested that the property will never see a golf course again.

True Life wants to build about 300 residences, two lakes, a café, a Montessori school and a professionally managed community farm on the site of the course, which was closed in 2013.

He acknowledged that DiCiccio, with whom he has often locked horns, is fighting True Life.

“He’s doing what he should be doing,” Stanton said. “We’re going to work closely together.”

The mayor also vowed, “Anything I support will be something that has strong community support.”

Stanton called Club West “an awkward situation” because that community faces “a water problem” involving course owner Wilson Gee, who is balking at the reported $700,000 he spends annually on potable water to irrigate the course.

Stanton acknowledged that the city two months ago shut off the water because Gee had accumulated more than $150,000 in unpaid bills.

“We can’t look the other way,” Stanton said.

And while he said the city would work with Club West to find some resolution to its water problem, Stanton made no reference to what solutions might exist.

“These are challenges for many communities across the country,” he said.

FREEWAY

decision, the losing party is expected to seek appellate court action to undo it.

“The balance of equities and public interest strongly favor allowing the and Children.

Both the Gila Community and PARC project to proceed,” wrote Assistant are appealing Humetewa’s August U.S. Attorney John Cruden, calling the decision that found no credible argument freeway “a critical component of the region’s transportation infrastructure.” for blocking the 22-mile highway.

“Once constructed, Humetewa ruled the project will neither group proved that improve transportation ADOT and the Federal connectivity and save Highway Administration millions of hours of short-shrifted an travel time for roadway environmental study of users,” he added, the impact of pollution stating opponents on the Gila Community had failed to show the residents and children ”likelihood of success” who attend the 17 of an appeal necessary schools located near the for an injunction to be freeway path. granted.

She also rejected Cruden also revealed arguments that the that construction on highway agencies ignored (Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer) South Mountain will the Native Americans’ Attorney Howard Shanker, reprecultural concerns over senting freeay opponents, says the not begin before July the freeway’s alleged government’s “speculative” claims 2018 at the earliest.

The plan calls for a desecration of South of harm caused by a freeway conMountain, which they struction delay “not supported by 200-foot-wide cut on the record.” the western edge of consider sacred.

Humetewa is under no time limit the mountain so that the freeway can to render a ruling. Regardless of her connect West Phoenix and Chandler, from page 1

giving I-10 motorists a way to avoid Downtown Phoenix traffic.

Cruden also noted that parties appealing a ruling in cases like this must show they can post a bond that covers any project costs incurred by delays.

And while Cruden said the federal government won’t seek a bond, he warned that ADOT may.

That bond could amount to millions, according to supplemental papers filed by the state.

“An injunction of project activities will result in additional costs of $188,000 per day for every day that the injunction is in place,” wrote assistant state attorney general lawyers William Jameson Jr. and Adrienne Weinkamer.

They also said “additional economic costs to the public due to project delays would be $641,000 per day.”

They then outlined what those damages included, warning that a year’s delay could add as much as $200 million to the total project cost.

Moreover, the lawyers said, “An injunction could have particularly harsh adverse impacts on the local construction community and on members of disadvantaged communities employed on the project as these communities

continue to recover from the great recession.”

At about $1.77 billion, the South Mountain Freeway is the most expensive highway project ever undertaken by Arizona.

“Current activities on the project include right of way acquisition, negotiation of utility relocation agreements, and engineering design activities. Data gathering in support of design activities include survey, geotechnical drilling, soils testing, and collecting existing plans and studies pertinent to the project area,” the state lawyers wrote, adding: “The public will suffer substantial other harm (including environmental harm) due to delay of the project’s benefits.

The region’s freeways are very congested and operate poorly. The congestion on the freeway system is in material part attributable to the gap in the Loop 202 Freeway. Traffic conditions in the regional freeway system in the future will be substantially worse if the project is not built.”

In his reply to the government lawyers’ briefs, PARC attorney Howard Shanker wrote that ADOT and the >> See

FREEWAY on page 12

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Page 10

DiCiccio agrees to give city employees the right of self-expression off the job

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

U

nionized city workers and Phoenix Councilman Sal DiCiccio aren’t exactly bosom buddies, but last week he voted to give city employees a right the union have been seeking.

DiCiccio joined the rest of his City Council colleagues to approve a change in the City Code that had forbidden them from expressing their political preferences when they’re not on the job.

Until last week, city employees were forbidden from even posting a political sign on their lawn.

“They can put up signs, go on social media and sign petitions,” said DiCiccio, who insisted that council add a ban on such activity when employees are working.

“I had language put in there that it cannot be done on city time or with city resources,” he said. “Other than that, they have a right of self-expression. It’s the constitutional thing to do.”

DiCiccio admitted that unions have been pressing for the City Code change for some time and that he could have tried to block the measure.

“Organized labor spent over $1.1 million against me in the last election and I had to go to court and spend $37,000 of my own money on court cases involving the uions’ fight against him.

“They have a right to do that,” he said, adding “if anyone had self-interest to oppose the unions, I certainly did. But at the end of the day, the constitution and public interest trumps self-interest.

It’s a free-speech issue.”

Councilwoman Laura Pastor said in a news release after the council vote, “Upholding the basic constitutional rights of our employees to participate in political activity, something which they have been denied for far too long, is something that I believe is vital to our democracy and the freedoms we hold dear.

She noted the change brings Phoenix more into line with the federal and state governments, as well as a number of cities across the country.

“If those employed by the City of Phoenix are free to exercise their constitutionally-protected rights, then I believe that our workforce community is

made stronger,” Pastor said. “We can be seen as a friendly place to work, where rights are protected and engagement is encouraged, no matter one’s political affiliation.”

Ironically, the council action came two days before Phoenix officials issued a cease-and-desist order to the Donald Trump campaign over its use of a commercial where he is talking to uniformed city police officers. They demanded the campaign stop running the commercial immediately.

The ad portrays Trump meeting for about one second with uniformed police officers at what appears to be an airport, with the word “Together” superimposed.

Phoenix City Attorney Brad Holm said in the letter that the officers “were unaware that they were photographed and videotaped, and they did not consent to the use of their on-duty images in any Trump (or other) campaign advertisement.”

Besides being a violation of federal and state laws governing copyright and intellectual property, Holm contended, the ad “unmistakably and wrongfully suggests that Phoenix and the officers support or endorse Mr. Trump’s campaign.”

“That is not the case,” he wrote.

“Neither Phoenix nor the Police Department support or endorse any candidate for President of the United States or any other political office.”

The federal Hatch Act of 1939 bars most public employees from engaging in political activities while serving in their official capacities.

The National Fraternal Order of Police, the country’s largest police union, endorsed Trump earlier this month. But the FOP says that on an individual level, police cannot allow their “name or likeness to be used in campaign literature in the police officer’s professional capacity.”

There’s always more stories on our website:

www.Ahwatukee.com

MEGA MONSTER MADNESS FEATURING

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(Special to AFN)

In a wheelchair, running back Gary Bragg #8 of Mountain Pointe takes a selfie with the trophy after the 20th annual Tukee Bowl high school football game between Desert Vista and Mountain Pointe at Mountain Pointe High School on Friday, September 30, 2016 in Phoenix, Arizona. Mountain Pointe won 27-13.

TUKEE

R F IN T E G R E D N U D N A KIDS 5

from page 1

evidenced Friday night by the hundreds of adults who packed the stands on both sides of the field.

Following the Pride’s 27-13 victory over the Thunder, AFN Managing Editor Lee Shappell presented Coach Norris Vaughan with the trophy as the team members cheered wildly, then huddled around their leader.

Several team members then took turns hoisting the trophy, then led the entire team to the center of the field, where various players held it for photos shot by fans and family.

Earlier in the day, the Ahwatukee Bowl was the subject of the final question to Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton during his speech before the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce.

After handling questions on economics, taxes and other matters, the moderator asked, “Desert Vista or Mountain Pointe?”

Without a pause, Stanton said, “Well, Desert Vista won a bunch of games early on and now Mountain Pointe is winning. I wish both teams success.”

Stanton added “I’m not going to take the bait” by being forced into picking one team over the other.

At the end of the game, police used pepper spray to break a fight in the parking lot.

“According to Phoenix PD and administrators, it was students from a non-Tempe Union school and it happened well after the game was over,” said Jill Hanks, executive director of

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She added that police and administrators “said students from DV and MP were well-behaved.”

Shappell picked up the trophy after the round of picture taking so that it can be engraved.

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Page 11

11 miles of sound walls, other freeway design plans rolled out by ADOT

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN EXECUTIVE EDITOR

N

early 500 Ahwatukee residents turned out Aug. 27 to see what the South Mountain Freeway had in store for them.

The Arizona Department of Transportation’s meeting at Desert Vista High School for the most part remained orderly under tight controls. The rules included a ban on questions from the floor, a strict time limit and a moderator who at one point threatened to end the session if conversation continued among the crowd.

But it got off to a rocky start when Phoenix police ushered out a group of Native American protesters who had just completed a 10-mile prayer walk against the damage that the freeway poses to South Mountain, which they consider sacred.

Although the group was initially allowed to go in, police escorted them out the door after several protesters began shouting epithets against the freeway and ADOT, vowing, “We will stop this (project) by any means necessary.”

The meeting included a number of revelations about design changes for the eight-lane, 22-mile-long freeway, including: • Some 11 miles of sound walls between 13 feet and 18 feet in height will be installed along its path, including most of the Pecos Road right-of-way.

• The only portion of the freeway that will be depressed will be at its interchange with Desert Foothills Parkway, which will cross over the freeway at grade.

• The rest of the Ahwatukee stretch will be either at grade or elevated for topographical reasons. ADOT design team representatives did not say how high those elevations would be or at what points along Pecos Road.

FREEWAY

from page 9

Federal Highway Administration “include a laundry list of harms” that are “speculative and generally not supported by the record.”

And even if the claims are valid, he added, “proper consideration does not overbalance the need for an injunction to stop immediate irreparable harm to the environment.”

Page 12

• Other arterials that will cross over the freeway in an elevated design include Southern Avenue, and Elliot, Dobbins and Broadway roads. The longest crossover will be the Southern Avenue Bridge, which ADOT said will run 2,500 feet.

• A total of 45 bridges will run over the freeway, mostly for pedestrian traffic.

• Pecos Road will be open to traffic throughout the freeway’s construction, with two lanes in each direction.

• A 15- to 17-foot-wide multipurpose path for bicyclists and pedestrians will run alongside the freeway between 40th and 17th streets.

• The freeway has been redesigned to spare any impact on wells for both the Foothills and Lakewood communities, as well as three unused wells on Gila River Indian Community land.

ADOT representatives stressed that not all the planning is completed and that more meetings are likely at the end of November.

They explained that the “design-build” approach allows them to do design work, some construction and even property acquisition simultaneously.

From the start of the meeting, moderator Sue Miller made it clear that ADOT would not tolerate any debate.

“We are not here to debate,” she told the crowd, stating, “We’ve had a lot of emails and a lot of phone calls. We have heard from a lot of people who want the freeway to come.”

The five presentations by various ADOT and design team representatives were hampered by a muddled public address system in the high school’s multipurpose room. Some audience members complained it was hard to hear the presenters clearly, and others were annoyed when some presenters frequently let their microphone drift away from their mouth.

Miller’s threat to cut off the meeting the nearby schools would leave only one came about 20 minutes into the session road for an evacuation.

“ADOT will look at an emergency exit in response to persistent conversation, mostly among scores of people in the that would parallel the freeway that you back who were forced to stand for the could use to evacuate people quickly,” he said. hour-long event.

Phoenix Councilman DiCiccio said he feels “reasonably Sal DiCiccio, who comfortable” with did not attend the the plans to spare meeting, said later the Lakewood and last week that some Foothills wells and of ADOT’s changes that the group, at came as the result Blostone’s request, of a meeting he had is continuing to called with a small work with ADOT Republican delegation to determine if consisting of state there is a way to run Reps. Bob Robson and a line that would Jill Norgaard and State provide water to Senate hopeful Frank Club West’s golf Schmuck. Ahwatukee course.

Foothills Village He also said Planning Committee he’s trying to put Chad Blostone also together a group of was involved, he said. representatives from He said that cyclists all the homeowners’ have urged a higher associations near speed limit for bikes (Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer) the freeway. on the multipurpose LaMont, a member of the South “I keep saying path, but that it was Doug Mountain Freeway design team member, this but people unlikely because it answers questions about the proposed also will be used by highway’s path prior to the start of ADOT’s need to remember public meeting. that the city has no pedestrians. say on the freeway,” “We wanted to get DiCiccio said. “We’re going to feel the things accomplished,” DiCiccio said.

Two of the biggest accomplishments, he effect of it, and that’s why I wanted to said, involved creation of a limited access bring everyone together, to make sure emergency road and maintaining traffic we could lessen the impact as much as possible.” on Pecos Road during construction.

ADOT’s plan to run all cross streets “We told ADOT Pecos Road has to stay open,” he said. “You can’t but Desert Foothills Parkway over the dump 50,000 cars onto Ray Road and freeway as elevated arterials underscored Chandler Boulevard. They’re going to the city’s powerlessness in affecting a great deal of change on the design. keep it open. That was critical.”

City Manager Ed Zuercher had He said Robson came up with the idea of an access road aound 32nd Street after protested the move in a letter two noting that a major emergency at one of months ago to ADOT.

As for the prospect of being saddled with an appeal bond, Shanker said, “PARC is a public interest not-for profit organization that is solely responsible for attorneys’ fees and costs of litigation in this case. PARC has essentially no money and has not paid any attorneys’ fees for many months.”

Representing the Gila Community, attorney David Rosenbaum accused the highway agencies of a “shameful attempt to downplay the devastating impact

that the freeway would have on the community’s way of life.”

He also criticized the agencies’ characterizations of the harm an injunction would cause the public.

“The agencies mischaracterize the benefits of the freeway and exaggerate the urgency of the project. The agencies have conceded that, even by 2035, the freeway would only reduce unmet traffic demand from 31 percent to 20 percent,” he wrote.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

“The agencies cannot explain how a relatively small additional delay, following 30 years of planning and development of the same highway without any urgency, could cause sufficient harm to justify rushing through construction while the appeal is ongoing,” he said.

“The public has an interest in preserving the natural environment and avoiding irreparable injury to it,” he added.

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Participants from the Gila River Indian Community and PARC approach the South Mountain Freeway meeting last week at Desert Vista High. The Akimel O’otham tribe held a 10-mile prayer run from their camp (Moadag Thadiwa) to the ADOT-sponsored meeting, but were ejected after they tried to hold an impromptu press conference inside the hall.

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t wasn’t the happiest of birthdays for its members, but Protect Arizona’s Resources and Children marked a milestone last week amid a flurry of activity around the target of its ire.

The Ahwatukee-based nonprofit that opposes the South Mountain Freeway celebrated its 10th anniversary just as work ramped up on the controversial thoroughfare – and while lawyers for the government and opponents exchanged fire in federal court.

PARC grew out of a “kitchen cabinet” consisting of four Ahwatukee residents, who were alarmed by the prospects of an eight-lane freeway practically on their doorstep.

“We all had a passion for the environment and what was going to happen if the freeway became a reality,” explained Jim Joachim, the only remaining co-founder of the group.

Over time, the group garnered financial support from four homeowners associations near the freeway footprint— Calabria, the Foothills, Lakewood and Club West—and raised $350,000 to fight the project in court and develop community awareness of the harm PARC believes it poses to the environment.

And it formed a close alliance with the

Gila River Indian Community, whose members’ opposition to the freeway is both environmental and cultural, since it considers South Mountain a sacred site and the freeway a desecration.

Today, PARC numbers more than 1,000 members, though its goal seems no more in reach than it did 10 years ago.

PARC has spent most of its money already on litigation and still owes its lawyer, Howard Shanker, another $100,000, though the attorney is pressing on with the court fight.

PARC weathered its biggest disappointment two months ago when U.S. District Judge Diane Humetewa rejected a two-pronged effort to halt the most expensive highway project in Arizona history.

PARC had sought the shutdown on grounds that the Arizona Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration gave short-shrift to environmental considerations.

It argued that pollution from more than 50,000 freeway vehicles a day threatened residents and posed particular long-term harm to children attending the 17 schools near the right-of-way.

Meanwhile, the Gila Community filed a joint attack on the two agencies >> See

ANNIVERSARY on page 15

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Construction crews last week leveled part of the front wall of the Foothills Reserve Master HOA community at the end of Pecos Road to make way for a nursery that will be a home for plants removed from the South Mountain Freeway path. The plants would then be placed along the freeway once it is built.

ANNIVERSARY

from page 15

for running the highway through South Mountain.

“The judge’s ruling was a great disappointment,” said Joachim. “With all the documentation and data that was given to her, I was surprised she could find nothing that supported our arguments.”

Currently the two groups are awaiting Humetewa’s decision on a request for an injunction while they appeal her decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth District. If she turns them down, they intend to seek an injunction from the appellate court.

The current president of PARC is Pat

Lawlis, a fiery opponent who continues rallying residents’ opposition through the group’s website, protectaz.org, and its Facebook page, facebook.com/groups/ PARC.AZ. Typical of her attacks was her Facebook post last week about ADOT’s design briefing at Desert Vista High School Sept. 27.

“Once again, ADOT has proven without a doubt that they have no real interest in public opinion,” she wrote.

“Their public meetings are just for show….Just another sham from ADOT.” Joachim said that despite the setback in federal court, PARC will press on.

And PARC will hold an anniversary celebration in a few weeks, partly to help raise money to continue its fight.

Freeway work traffic restrictions

T

he Arizona Department of Transportation has announced the following traffic restrictions in connection with pre-construction work for the South Mountain Freeway.

Crews are working to obtain soil samples, locate underground utilities and salvage trees and plants. ADOT said motorists should allow extra travel time, use caution and consider alternate routes while the following scheduled restrictions are in place:

Thursday

• 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Pecos Road narrowed to one lane in both directions

between Desert Foothills Parkway and 17th Avenue.

Friday

• 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pecos Road narrowed to one lane in both directions between Desert Foothills Parkway and 17th Avenue.

Saturday

• 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pecos Road narrowed to one lane in both directions between Desert Foothills Parkway and 17th Avenue.

• Salt River Project will be conducting utility work on 40th Street near Pecos Road.

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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 15

LD 18 State Senate candidates duel over income tax, education in amiable debate tax, which he wants to replace with a consumption tax on everything except food, clothing and gasoline. ver an amiable lunch with the “I think when we are able to eliminate Kiwanis Club of Tempe, the two the Arizona state income tax, we’re going State Senate candidates in the to create the freedom to earn, which district that covers Ahwatukee engaged in is going to give us the money for the an amiable debate. freedom to learn,” Schmuck said.

Both Republican Frank Schmuck and Asked about the biggest challenge facing Democrat Sean Bowie returned to their Arizona in the next 10 years and how they primary campaign issues—the state would confront it, Bowie focused on jobs. income tax and increased education “Our unemployment rate is higher funding—as they made their pitch for than the national average; job growth is why they were the most capable person lower than the national average. What we to represent Legislative District 18, which are doing isn’t working,” Bowie declared, includes parts of Tempe, Chandler and stating that Arizona’s economy has had Mesa. some struggles over the years.

Moderated by Tempe “Looking economic Kiwanis president Opinion Page square-off development and the Sharon Doyle, the best way to improve The two State Senate 25-minute debate was our economy long highlighted by friendly candidates for Legislative term, we have exchanges between the District 18 square off on what to be invested in they consider the top issue two candidates. education,” Bowie In their opening facing residents. See page 34. said, stating that he statements, Bowie laid canvassed LD 18 out his two priorities. voters door to door and they consistently “First, is to restore education funding, cited education funding as their primary to restore some of the cuts that have been concern. made since 2009 to both K-12 and higher He said Arizona’s pupil-teacher ratio is ed,” Bowie said, “and two, I want to bring too big, that its teacher-turnover rate is some bipartisanship back into the State too high because of low salaries, and that Capital. We are very close in this state higher education tuition in the state has Senate to having split control.” soared 82 percent since 2009.

Schmuck outlined his plan for a Schmuck said the issues are interrelated. gradual elimination of Arizona’s income “What I mean by that, education is

BY EILEEN HOPKINS AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

O

extremely important to this district and to the entire state, but it does us no good to educate youth, subsidize their training, they are schooling only to work for the competitor,” he said.

Schmuck cited a 15-year-old study by Travis H. Brown, the CEO of Pelopidas/ First Rule Media Network and the author of “How Money Walks.”

According to the study, Schmuck said, “trillions of dollars have moved from states with high-income tax rates to much lower.”

Schmuck noted that while Arizona has 2.5 million income-tax filers every year, it also has 44 million visitors annually who contribute to consumption taxes.

He said eliminating the state income tax will motivate people to, “either reinvest in their company, which means jobs, or they’re gonna consume.”

Bowie said, “This is probably the biggest disagreement between Frank and I.” However, he said he supports lowering taxes if education can be adequately funded.

Bowie says that his primary concern about Schmuck’s plan involves people on fixed incomes because there are more things that people buy than clothing, gas and food.

“For us to eliminate 40 percent of the revenue in our budget and try to make up for those kinds of taxes, I don’t think it’s the best approach especially given to where we are when it comes to investing

in education,” Bowie said.

“I think we can use some of the resources we already have and really make some target investments and I think that’s going to be the best thing for our education system going forward,” he added.

Schmuck said, “I think there needs to be more pressure on administrators, money needs to get first to the teachers.”

“Do I want to see money get to education?” he continued. “I certainly do, but I’m not just gonna throw money at it, I want to make sure that it’s getting to the front line employee first and to do that, it’s through transparency.”

Doyle asked both candidates if they favored the elimination of privately owned prisons.

“These are for-profit companies that care more about making money than they do about safety,” Bowie said.

He added that it is not economically feasible for Arizona to eliminate these prisons yet because many state-owned prisons are outdated and are not up to code, which would then create more costs.

Schmuck said, “First and foremost, safety, it’s paramount.”

“Nowhere would I want to let anyone out of prison to try to save some money for the state, it’s just not worth the risk,” Schmuck said.

“I’ll look to see what I can do to better the system from a legislative standpoint,” he added.

District’s primary winners started out as activists

BY ADRIANA BECERRA AFN STAFF WRITER

A

ctivists-turned-politicians captured District 26’s vote in the primaries last month.

Athena Salman and Isela Blanc edged out incumbent Celeste Plumlee, each getting over 30 percent of the vote in District 26, which covers Tempe, Mesa and Phoenix. They ran on the Clean Election Team with Juan Mendez for Senate.

Salman is a native Arizonian, born into a diverse family—her mother is from Chicago and father is from the Middle East. She is a first-generation graduate from Arizona State University, with degrees in economics and political science.

Salman first began experimenting with activism in college. Since then, she’s Page 16

proposed a state work-study program to the state Legislature, worked with Gov. Jan Brewer on a Common Core Numbering bill, and helped increase Latino voter turnout by almost 500 percent in 2011.

Salman was recently given Tempe’s MLK Diversity Award.

Blanc was born in Mexico and moved to the U.S when she was 6. She went to Tempe public school and was the first in her family to attend a university. She graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in family and human development.

In making her children her first priority, Blanc became a volunteer at her children’s school. This led her to advocate for youth programs and education.

She’s worked in the public sector, with law enforcement and with community outreach programs on the benefits of

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

early childhood development.

Blanc suddenly found herself in politics after participating in the New American Leaders Project, and was encouraged to continue, though she never imagined herself in the political arena.

“We need more people that don’t see themselves in these positions,” Blanc said, “A lot of times our communities, our societies, ourselves tell us we’re not good enough. I can’t let fear dictate the possibilities.”

Blanc and Salman grounded their campaign in speaking directly to voters in their district, asking their concerns and hopes for the community.

“In communities of families where there was higher income level to low income, the number one concern was education,” said Blanc.

Speaking to voters gave Blanc motivation. Particularly, when asking

parents about their hopes and dreams for their children.

“They got teary-eyed and said I don’t know. I’m afraid,” Blanc said.

She herself could never imagine the difficulties and uncertainties that parents now face.

Blanc hopes to help repair the broken education system by giving back the funds that have previously been cut. She wants to continue giving children the best education and opportunity.

“It shouldn’t matter where you live or your ZIP code or your family income,” Blanc said on allowing all children equal access to high quality education.

Salman is also committed to reforming the education system. She stresses the importance of early childhood development, noting: “Ninety percent of a child’s brain develops within the first five years.”

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 17

Chandler program brings health services to veterans in need informatics analysis. Robin Miller, senior management analyst with Chandler Fire, makes appointments with veterans. t was bad enough when Tom Welch Two community paramedics go to of Chandler was shot in the chest the veteran’s home and use a tablet to during his first tour of duty in the establish a video and audio link that jungles of Vietnam. allows the veteran to speak directly with Welch, 65, also was hit by shrapnel a VA nurse practitioner. during his second tour of duty, all with During the first six months of the the U.S. Army’s 11th Armored Calvary pilot program, which started in January, Regiment, where he scouted the North Chandler firefighters identified 794 Vietnamese Army’s movements in a veterans. Staff members contacted 496 highly dangerous front-line assignment. to see if they were receiving services “I learned how to duck faster,” Welch from the VA and set up 60 Tele Health jokes in typical fashion, using humor to appointments, Miller said. combat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder The Chandler City Council recently and a host of serious physical ailments extended the program another 18 stemming from his military service. months, giving it a two-year trial to The aftermath of Welch’s service to his gauge the effectiveness. The program’s country has been almost as trying as his progress is being closely monitored at time in Vietnam. He served with the the VA, which considers it an effective prestigious Blackhorse way of expanding or Unit from 1969 to improving services to 1971, going on night the sickest of veterans patrols through the and a potential model jungle looking for for use nationwide. the enemy. He was “Our intent from part of one of the first the beginning was units to cross over the to design it in a way Cambodian border. that fire department’s First, there was across the nation can colon surgery in his replicate it,” said Val late 30s, followed by Gale, a Chandler an aggressive form Battalion Chief. “It of prostate cancer is our hope that this that the Department program will spread of Veterans Affairs across the nation.” attributed to his The paramedics exposure to Agent act as the nurse Orange, a deadly practitioner’s eyes, (Will Powers/AFN Staff Photographer) defoliant blamed Tom Welsh (second ears and hands.

They from left) was on for a host of health the cover of Life magazine on May 22, check the patient’s problems.

1970. vital signs. They read Most recently, Welch off a list of names came down with bronchial pneumonia, and dosages of medications. The nurse another condition that landed him in practitioner questions the veterans the hospital. It was the latest in a series about their health and makes sure they of life-threatening blows he has managed are taking their medications properly. to endure since he turned 60.

They also coordinate the patient’s care “I’m lucky I made it that far,” he said. by making follow up appointments with The VA and the Chandler Fire Health VA doctors. and Medical Department are working “It’s good. It saves me a trip to the together to keep veterans such as Welch hospital,” Welch said. as healthy as possible, using preventative Vickie Welch, Tom’s wife and caregiver, care, with a personal touch. said the program gives her peace of mind.

The innovative pilot program targets “They do a great job. They’re real the sickest veterans in Chandler and personable. They are very familiar, that Tempe, as identified from VA health helps,” she said. records through use of an advanced During a previous visit, the paramedics

BY JIM WALSH AFN STAFF WRITER

I

Page 18

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

(Will Powers/AFN Staff Photographer)

Tom Welch has his prescriptions checked by Chandler firefighters Jim Spengler and Chad Goswick as part of a pilot program with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

noted that Tom Welch had an irregular heart beat and performed an EKG, a common test that measures the heart’s rhythm. An EKG is typically performed in a doctor’s office, especially a cardiologist’s office.

The Tempe Fire Department also participates in the program but uses a different approach. A nurse from the Fire Department and a second nurse from Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital meet with veterans in pre-scheduled appointments, making the same video and audio connection with a VA nurse practitioner, said Monique Lind, emergency medical services coordinator.

“I think there are some advantages to it, especially with drawing blood.

I think the nurse model gives us more flexibility,” Lind said. “These patients have significantly increased risk of going to the ER (emergency room) or even dying.”

Dr. Hamed Abbaszadegan, an internist and the Phoenix VA’s chief health informatics officer, said the VA is using data from patients’ health records and analyzing it with algorithms and predictive modeling to identify a pool of patients who can benefit from the program.

“They are the sickest people in our system. They need the help the most.

We are trying to predict who might call 911,” he said.

The program’s focus, he said, is “all about prediction and prevention.”

Doctors have only become board certified in informatics, an emerging field, for three years, Abbaszadegan said.

It might eventually become a model for the delivery of health care not only to veterans, but to everyone.

Dr. Gabriel Labbad, a doctor from the New Jersey shore who recently observed

the program as part of a fellowship with the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine in Phoenix, was very impressed.

“What you are doing in Chandler could be a model for the rest of the country 10 years from now,” Labbad said.

Another veteran helped by the program, who asked to remain anonymous, said the personal touch provided by Chandler paramedics adds something that is often lacking in the medical system. The veteran told nurse practitioner Wendy Astudillo-Tee that he doesn’t like to go outside unless it is absolutely necessary.

“Veterans are a special class of people with specific needs,” he said. “Everybody needs a little love sometimes.”

The program also requires a new approach for Chandler firefighters, who typically don’t get to know the people they help. Usually, their priority is identifying the level of injury, providing immediate treatment and rushing an injured person to the appropriate hospital for more intensive care.

“It’s very fulfilling. You get a chance to give back to these fellows, some of them have made great sacrifices,” said Jim Spengler, a veteran paramedic who joined the department in 1984. “We get to spend 45 minutes to two hours with them,” as opposed to a typical call that might last 20 minutes.

Miller said some veterans don’t realize they are eligible for benefits, or don’t want get services when they think that will keep somebody else from getting help.

– Reach Jim Walsh at 480-898-5639 or at jwalsh@ ahwatukee.com.

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 19

Pinners passionate about empowering women

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Pinners and Sisters

C

rissi Johnson and her sister, Tami Bresniker, are taking the fear out of power tools and empowering women to grasp some themselves.

The duo owns Made by 2 Sisters in Mesa, where they teach DIY classes and sell crafty items. They’ll showcase their talents and teach courses at the Pinners Conference and Expo on Friday and Saturday at WestWorld in Scottsdale.

They will have a booth and teach classes as well.

The conference features more than 90 Pinterest-based classes taught by presenters from throughout the nation. The expo boasts nearly 200 top businesses providing options in the worlds of DIY, crafts, cooking, self-improvement, photography, party planning, scrapbooking, holiday, and beauty and fashion.

“We teach classes on power tools so women can build their own things,” said Johnson, who lives in Gilbert, while her sister resides in San Diego. “We do it step by step.

“Some women have never picked up a hammer or drill. We show them how to use them. My dad raised me and my sister not to be afraid of power tools.

We just go for it.”

Johnson and Bresniker began their side careers—Johnson works as a teacher, while her sister works for FedEx—making wood signs, which Made by 2 Sisters still sells.

“It just naturally fell into how to create signs,” Johnson said about her classes.

“I am super passionate about teaching people and empowering women to use tools. So I started teaching building classes.”

The classes focus on a variety of items, such as front porch posts, TV trays, blanket and towel ladders, frames and chalkboard frames and tables.

“We have different levels,” Johnson said. “The beginning level, it’s basic.”

With her sister and parents living in California, the family meets once a month. Their father, Ron Yap, does the cutting and prepping for classes and transports the items to Arizona. Their mom, Zita, is the accountant, while Bresniker sews.

Johnson said she is looking forward to the Pinners Conference and Expo.

Page 20

The Pinners Conference and Expo runs 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 8, at WestWorld, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. Tickets are $7 to $99. For more information, visit westworldaz.com or az.pinnersconference.com.

Made by 2 Sisters is at 20 W. Baseline Road, Suite 6, Mesa. For more information, visit madeby2sisters.com.

(Special to AFN)

ABOVE: Tami Bresniker (left) and Crissi Johnson own Made by 2 Sisters in Mesa. They will be showcasing their talents at the Pinners Conference and Expo on Friday and Saturday.

ABOVE RIGHT: Crissi Johnson (left) helps a client during one of Made by 2 Sisters’ workshops.

RIGHT: Tami Bresniker and Crissi Johnson recently opened a brick and mortar store, Made by 2 Sisters, at 20 W. Baseline Rd., Suite 6, Mesa.

“We’ve been on the East side so much and we are always asked if we do classes on the West side or up north in Scottsdale,” she said. “It’s very hard to take our classes somewhere because there is so much wood and tools.

“It will be nice to hit a whole different market and also to teach a huge number of people at one time. Our shop holds 20, while we hear the Pinners room can fit 140. That’s more than I get to hit in a month.”

Made by 2 Sisters also hosts pallet parties, most of which are private.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

“We do five to seven private parties a weekend,” she said. “Usually, we have about two open parties a week.”

Of all of their services or products, Johnson enjoys the girls’ night out events the most.

“It’s not the typical wine and painting party where everybody’s doing the same thing,” she said. “Here, we have up to 70-plus options or you can do a custom option.

“I don’t hold anything back. I don’t hold my secrets. It’s not about selling the signs. It’s teaching people what to do.”

Johnson finds time for Made by 2 Sisters because she shares a job at Fuller Elementary School in Tempe. She teaches Wednesdays and Thursdays, when the store is closed.

Kids are welcome a well.

“It’s so gratifying,” she said. “Kids have immediate gratification. It’s not like pottery places where you have to wait to bring it home. They’re bringing it home that say.

“Birthday parties are great. The kids can come and have their cake, and make something from start to finish.”

Anti-pot campaigners enjoy big money edge in proposition fight

BY HOWARD FISCHER CAPITOL MEDIA SERVICES

F

oes of legalized recreational marijuana are building up a war chest in an apparent bid to kill Proposition 205 with a last-minute barrage of media.

New reports filed with the Secretary of State shows that Arizonans for Responsible Drug Policy has so far collected slightly more than $2 million.

That still leaves the group short of the nearly $3.2 million reported by the Campaign to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol.

But the pro-205 forces already have burned through more than $3 million of that, much of that to get the measure on the ballot in the first place. The latest report shows that organization has less than $170,000 on hand.

By contrast, the campaign to kill the measure reported it has close to $1.4 million in the bank.

That cash differential could prove crucial.

Various polls have come up with

conflicting results.

One from July had the measure failing with 52 percent of those questioned opposed. Another one released last month showed the initiative with 50 percent support.

But the tide could be on the side of initiative foes, and not just because of the financial edge.

Pollster Earl de Berge said that, generally speaking, when people are undecided or confused, they tend to vote “no’’ on ballot measures.

And pollster Michael O’Neil, who did not conduct either survey, said that even if proponents really do have a 10-point lead, that’s not good news at this point in the election cycle. He said that’s probably a high point and it’s highly unlikely that number will improve between now and the election.

“I disagree with that,’’ responded Barrett Marson, spokesman for the legalization campaign. He said proponents are conducting a “vigorous’’ campaign.

He conceded the anti-205 campaign has more cash on hand. But he said much of that is due to a $500,000 donation

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from Chandler-based Insys Corp., “a company that wants to sell synthetic marijuana and opposes legalization for business reasons.’’

Anti-205 spokesman Adam Deguire said his group is using its funding for television advertising in hopes of convincing voters that this is different than the law they narrowly approved in 2010.

“This isn’t necessarily a fight about marijuana,’’ he said.

“No one’s arguing here whether marijuana has medicinal purposes,’’ Deguire continued. “We’re arguing whether it should be legalized recreationally.’’

And he said there are things in Proposition 205 that even voters who support legalized marijuana might not want.

That 2010 ballot measure that barely squeaked by allows individuals with certain medical conditions, a doctor’s recommendation and a state-issued ID card to obtain up to 2 1/2 ounces every two weeks from a state-licensed dispensary.

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Proposition 205 would allow any adult to have up to an ounce at a time, purchased through an expanded retail dispensary system but with a 15 percent tax added on. The measure also would spell out certain rights of marijuana users as to employment and child custody cases.

Driving while impaired on marijuana would remain illegal.

But unlike alcohol, where a bloodalcohol content of 0.08 is presumption of impairment, there is no such standard in Proposition 205. That would require prosecutors to prove in each case that the motorist was impaired.

Proponents have spent much of their resources to date on their claims that the revenues from the tax would benefit education. Foes counter that similar promises were made in Colorado voters but that the funds have not materialized.

But the prime message of the anti-205 forces has been that making marijuana more available to adults will lead to greater accessibility and use by minors.

Marson acknowledged the smaller war chest.

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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 21

Community

ahwatukee.com

Ahwatukee Foothills News online

News, ideas and opinions on what’s important to Ahwatukee

BELOW, (Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer) Desert Vista High cheerleader Olivia Gregg leads the Thunder fans in the first half of the 20th annual Ahwatukee Bowl.

RIGHT, Mountain Pointe fans shout their approval

Tukee Bowl scenes

ABOVE, (Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer) Desert Vista High fans found some moments to cheer despite the Thunder's loss.

RIGHT, (Delanna Sesma/ Special to AFN) Mountain Pointe cheerleaders rally the crowd as the Pride closes in on a win.

The award-winning Desert Vista High marching band performed before kick-off.

Page 22

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

Ahwatukee mariachi group looking forward to State Fair concert

BY ADRIANA BECERRA AFN STAFF WRITER

STATE FAIR DETAILS

V

iolins and guitars aren’t usually paired with buckets and sponges, but Adan Florez thinks the combination might help his group and entertain the community.

Florez directs Mariachi de Ahwatukee, a performing ensemble and educational class focused on teaching mariachi culture that recently received an invitation to perform at the Arizona State Fair later this month.

“We’ve talked about having a car wash and a show later this year,” Florez said, “Bring your car in for wash, and we’ll entertain you with mariachi music.”

His group stresses both the importance of educating members on the Mexican culture and helping to enrich “areas of Ahwatukee that have little to no exposure to this type of festive music.”

“Our location in Ahwatukee has been instrumental in our approach to how we expose ourselves to the society around us,” Florez said. “We seek locations and events that could use a positive cultural enlightenment through music.”

Florez, 36, originally started the group as a class in 2014 as a chance to give back to the community.

The Tempe native began specializing in brass instruments at age of 10. He eventually joined a mariachi group that performed all over the state as well as with the Phoenix Symphony. It even appeared on PBS’ “Sesame Street.”

In 1996, Florez and that group got the opportunity to perform in front of President Bill Clinton.

After serving in the U.S. Navy for four years, Florez returned to the Valley.

He is now a music education major at Mesa Community College and teaches private music lessons at Music Maker Workshops in Ahwatukee.

Florez started the class as a way to help give students some of the opportunities he was lucky enough to have.

“I got to do things other children growing up never got to do. I wanted that again for our younger generations and thus Mariachi de Ahwatukee was born” said Florez.

The group has now worked its way up from a music class to full-fledged 11-member mariachi ensemble.

Anyone can become a member of Mariachi de Ahwatukee, Florez said.

All ages and skill levels are welcomed, from students looking to improve their

Admission, hours and parking

The Arizona State Fair is located at 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix.

Information: 602-252-6771, azstatefair.com.

Admission: $10 adults $5 children ages 5 to 13 $5 seniors ages 55 and olde Free children younger than 4 Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Wednesday to Friday 10 a.m.-midnight Saturday and Sunday Park and Ride Shuttle: Park at the State Capitol and ride to the Arizona State Fair for free starting at 6 p.m.

Fridays, and beginning at 10 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays.

Parking is available in the north lot for $10.

The north lot is accessible from 19th Avenue and Monte Vista Road.

Discounted $5 parking is available in the 20th Avenue lot. That lot is located on the southwest corner of 19th Avenue and Encanto.

(Special to AFN)

Members of Mariachi De Ahwatukee are, from left: front row: LaVona Florez, Evan Condon and Antonio Villa; back row: Sergio Osuna, Graden Georgitso, Salma Avina, Elizabeth Avina, David Condon, Eva Condon, Alejandro Osuna and Director Adan Florez.

confidence in public to professionals trying to get more involved in the community.

Florez said that despite its mix of beginners and seasoned musicians, the band comes together smoothly.

“It is usually within six months that everybody reaches an advanced level of performance, regardless of age and instrument” Florez said, “Beginners become very dominant performers right away with performances back to back.”

Mariachi de Ahwatukee doesn’t charge for its services, but instead seeks donations toward their “uniform fund,” called “trajes.” Currently, members wear all black from the waist down, with a long-sleeved, white-collared shirt.

The group’s appearance at 10 a.m. Oct. 23 on the State Fair’s Culture Stage is its second at the annual exposition.

Florez said because of the high interest in performing among many groups in the state, Mariachi de Ahwatukee was not guaranteed a spot. One can only request a spot and hope for a call-back, he said, adding he feels grateful for the invitation.

He said the band also appreciates the increased encouragement it has been getting lately on social media.

“I set an event post on our Facebook page identical to last year’s post and we got minimal responses. The numbers were something along of the lines of 15 ‘confirmed attending event’ and 60 ‘interested,’” Florez said, “This year’s post has been phenomenal with a current number of 461 attending and over 2,100 interested.”

Florez said working with the Ahwatukee community has been a

journey for both him and the group.

“One of the greatest parts about being in this mariachi is the reception we receive from the residents of Ahwatukee has been full of acceptance and smiles,” Florez said, “This brings the group a sense of pride and motivation to keep striving for greatness to bring quality performances to Ahwatukee time and time again.”

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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 23

AROUND AHWATUKEE

DiCiccio joins protest against Valley Metro payout

Phoenix Councilman Sal DiCiccio has joined council members Jim Waring and Michael Nowakowski in demanding a council vote on deducting money from the city’s regular payment to Valley Metro to protest the agency’s $180,000 payout to its disgraced former CEO. In a letter to the city manager, the three councilmen noted that Steve Banta is under investigation by the state attorney general after an audit disclosed $315,000 in questionable expenses run up by Banta.

Banta resigned after the audit became public, but collected $180,000 in severance.

DiCiccio and his two colleagues want the “proportional share of Phoenix taxpayer dollars that was used for this payout” deducted from the city’s next payment to Valley Metro and are insisting the matter be placed on the agenda for the next council meeting.

100+ Women Who Care to consider next ‘Big Give’

The 100+ Women Who Care Valley of the Sun chapter will meet 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Oct. 25 at the Four Points by Sheraton

Phoenix South Mountain, 10831 S. 51st St., Ahwatukee, to decide the next recipient of its “Big Give.”

The group, founded by an Ahwatukee woman, collects $100 from each member and selects a nonprofit to receive what was collected, usually around $10,000. The group calls that donation its “Big Give.”

The recipient is chosen fromt hree nonprofits nominated by members.

Recipients are vetted and must be at least three years old and have a record of service.

Information: 100WWCValleyOfTheSun. org.

ASU prof to address Kyrene seminar on 'STEM equity'

Arizona State University professor Tirupalavanam Ganesh will will discuss historical and current disparity in the participation of women and ethnic minorities in Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM) fields at Kyrene School District’s equity workshop, 8-11:30 a.m. Oct. 15 at the district office, 8700 S. Kyrene Road, Tempe.

Ganesh is a leader in education research, particularly in engineering and science instruction at both college and K-12 levels.

Non-Kyrene educators are welcome and should call Teri Burdick at 480-541-1501.

The fee is $25.

Mountain Pointe students slate LD 18 candidates debate

Mountain Pointe High School advance-placement students are hosting and moderating a debate for state Legislature candidates in Legislative District 18, which covers Ahwatukee.

The debate is 6 p.m. Monday at the school, 4201 E. Knox Road, Ahwatukee.

The public is invited and food will be provided for guests.

The students set aside time in their government class every week to brainstorm and execute plans for the debate.

The AP government class is a collegelevel course that teaches effective planning and time-management skills.

Odelay Bagel plans art show, pub crawl to mark anniversary

Odelay Bagel Co., 2020 S. Warner Elliot Loop, Ahwatukee, has planned several events this month to celebrate its second year in business.

Between 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 6 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sunday, it will offer displays of art and

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photography by Mountain Pointe and Desert Vista High School students.

From 8:30-10 a.m. Oct. 22, the Music Makers Workshops will present live performances featuring Fiddlin’ Frenzy and the No Fret String Project.

Odelay also will sponsor a “Boo Cruise” pub crawl starting at 2 p.m. Oct. 29 and ending at Cactus Jack’s. Participants are being asked for a $5 donation to support Valley Dog, a local animal charity.

“It’s been such a treat to get to know all the great people in Ahwatukee over this past year and we look forward to many more events,” said owner Ryan Probst.

Ahwatukee fitness studio schedules biggest loser contest

The Body Firm Personal Training Studio, 3636 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee, has scheduled a six-week contest for body-weight loss. The person who loses the highest percentage of body weight between Monday and Nov. 21 will win $100 and all the entry fees for the contest.

The kickoff is 12:30 p.m. Saturday at the studio, which will hold weekly weigh-ins and offer nutritional and motivational tools.

Information: 480-705-9801, thebodyfirmaz. com.

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Ahwatukee couple, relatives land spot on ‘Family Feud’ AFN NEWS STAFF

A

n Ahwatukee couple will get a piece of television history next week when they and some relatives appear as contestants on “Family Feud” in a year when the TV game show is marking 40 years on the air.

Randi and Vade Pierce of Ahwatukee will appear on the show Oct. 12. It airs 7-8 p.m. on KAZT-TV Channel 7 in Phoenix.

The show pits five members of two families against each other as they try to guess the most common answers to questions that producers pose to 100 people randomly. The two families compete for cash prizes as well as a new car.

The Emmy Award-winning show is now the third top-rated first-run syndicated show, surpassing the popularity of “Jeopardy,” a spokeswoman said. It’s also the top-rated syndicated show for women ages 24-50.

Joining the Ahwatukee couple are Randi’s parents, Marilyn and Robert Saretsky of Cave Creek, and her sister Erika Saretsky of Desert Ridge.

Randi and her family felt like they were with an old friend while they were taping the show last July in Atlanta, Georgia.

“We were really excited because I watched with my family when I got older,” she said.

She added that it was especially exciting for her husband, a nurse technician at Mayo Hospital who is studying to become a nurse practioner after serving in the Army for 11 years.

“He was so excited,” Randi said. “He thought it was great.”

Robert was selected to answer the first question, which she said dismayed him because her mother is the real “Family Feud” fan who got them on the show to begin with.

But Marilyn said that she looked at it as the luck of the drawer, noting every member of the family got a turn to answer a question.

The luck of the draw got them on the show in the first place, Marilyn said, though her family’s enthusiasm scored them a spot on the show.

“The producers came here in January and wanted families so I got everybody together and we went to the Phoenix Convention Center for a try-out.”

After passing an initial screening, they were herded into a room with a number of other families to meet the producers

(Special to AFN)

Members of the Saretsky family who appear on the Oct. 12 Family Feud show include, from left, Robert Saretsky, his wife Marilyn, daughter Erika, daughter Randi Pierce and husband Vade Pierce. The Pierces live in Ahwatukee.

“and talk about ourselves,” Marilyn said.

“They didn’t care so much about the answers,” she explained. “They cared about the enthusiasm people showed.”

After that, no decision would be made for a few months. Then, a card arrived in April asking them about available dates to be flown all-expenses-paid to Atlanta.

“I was so excited,” said Marilyn, who has watched the show since it came on the air.

Even though producers paid for their flight and lodging expenses, the family still had no guarantee they’d be put on air, she added.

“We had to go through a mock show,” she explained. “They wanted to make sure no one would get too nervous and joke.”

“It was so much fun,” Marilyn said, adding things did get tough when family members could huddle while watching their competition try to answer a question.

That question would go to them if their opponents got the answer wrong.

The family is forbidden by contract from telling anyone about the outcome, but all five memebrs will be getting together next week to relive their experience.

Randi said her two stepkids, ages 11 and 14, are looking forward to it.

“They think it was awesome,” she said.

“They want to watch it too.” ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 25

Central Christian using pumpkins to break the ice among neighbors AFN NEWS STAFF

C

entral Christian Church in Ahwatukee is encouraging residents to come out this weekend and get some pumpkins for a Valley-wide effort aimed at introducing 8,000 people to their neighbors.

The project, called “Glow: Light the Community,” involves the Ahwatukee church and its other East Valley campuses, and envisions its semi-trailer trucks loaded with pumpkins creating “thousands of packed driveways and countless opportunities to establish new connections with one’s friends and neighbors,” according to a release.

Calling the project “a communal effort of epic proportions,” organizers want church members and others to collect an “invite kit” this weekend and hold a pumpkin-carving party.

The parties are “designed to encourage neighbors to get to know one another in a friendly, open atmosphere, in hopes of building more well-connected communities,” organizers said in a release.

The invite kit consists of five pumpkins,

carving stencils and other essentials that will be distributed at the 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Saturday services and the 9

a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday services at the church, located south of Chandler Boulevard and 48th Street.

“A simple invite goes a long way,” said Jason Ake, Central Church’s creative director. “This is a way to get to know your friends and neighbors and encourage community gathering in a safe, organized manner.”

Central Christian said well-connected communities “experience an abundance of benefits.”

“In addition to allowing residents to serve and support one another, research shows that governmental assistance, community crime rates, child hunger and elderly issues all decrease when neighbors take the time to get to know one another,” it said.

“It’s a great way to make that first move and an easy icebreaker,” Ake said.

“Gather on your patios or in your front yards to get to know your friends and neighbors and have some fall fun while you do it.”

Established in 1959, Central Christian is one of Arizona’s largest churches and counts more than 10,000 members.

At least a dozen semi-trailer trucks will be fanning out to its campuses this weekend to deliver the pumpkins.

Information: centralaz.com/Glow.

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Ahwatukee chiropractor’s Ladies Night to benefit two nonprofit groups AFN NEWS STAFF

A

relative newcomer to Ahwatukee is planning an event to pamper women while raising money for two nonprofit organizations.

Dr. Cameron Call, owner of The Specific Chiropractic Center in Ahwatukee, is hosting a Ladies Night 6-9 p.m. Oct. 13 at the Four Points by Sheraton South Mountain, 10831 S. 51st St., Ahwatukee, to benefit the Ahwatukee Children’s Theater and Child Help.

The event will include food, drinks, massages, raffle prizes, a photo booth, and opportunities to shop from local businesses and premier vendors in jewelry, skin care, and clothing. The Ahwatukee Children’s Theater will also provide live entertainment.

“I’m passionate about empowering women to live their lives rather than enduring them, especially those with chronic conditions. Ladies Night is an event that encourages just that,” said Call, who moved here from Dallas late last year.

Call said he met representatives for both organizations by chance and was impressed with the groups’ work.

He met Mich Rubino, founder of the Ahwatukee Children’s Theater, after seeing an ad on Facebook.

Call said that after learning more about the theater and its mission to bring the arts into more children’s lives, “I knew immediately it was something I wanted to support.”

“The theater is located right off of 48th street and Elliot and is an inspiration to visit,” he added.

While on a plane to Atlanta in July, Call sat next to Natalie Hood, one of the directors at Child Help, which helps abused and neglected children, and eventually toured the foundation’s advocacy center in Downtown Phoenix.

Tickets are $20 per person and all ticket proceeds will go to the two organizations. Most will be pre-sold with only a few available at the door.

Reservations: 602-753-7782.

Two dogs seek homes with new owners AFN NEWS STAFF

B

obby and Chet not only feel abandoned, they are. And they’re hoping for new homes.

“Bobby will steal your heart,” said Friends for Life spokeswoman Janelle Cosgriff of the 3-year-old, 25-pound dog.

Rescued from a county shelter where he was scheduled for euthanasia, Bobby “loves car rides, sits nicely for treats and has wonderful leash manners,” she said.

Cosgriff added that Bobby has “a nice energy level and will make a great walking partner for someone.” Bobby is neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and licensed. His adoption fee is $150 and can be adopted by calling 480-4978296, e-mailing ffldogs@azfriends.org or visiting www.azfriends.org.

Chet is a 4-year-old Beagle/Dachshund mix who has a “shy, gentle nature” and is in need of “patient and calm affection,” said Shauna Michael, spokeswoman for the Arizona Animal Welfare League.

“Once Chet gets to know you, his happy and fun loving personality warm lap and show you what a loving blossoms,” she said. “Chet would love dog he truly is.” a quiet home where he can curl up in a Information: 602-273-6852 ext.116.

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We can help you with the challenges you’re facing. Please join us for a personal tour. Call 480.359.2898 to schedule.

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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 27

Summit School students learn team work through service projects joined their efforts, led by Summit’s kindergarten assistant, Marsh Casey, who has spent years making and personally delivering close to 400 mats on streets that homeless souls congregate,” Konrad said.

First graders are getting into a project that helps them focus on the environment.

Their classes made a snack mix to sell at school and raise money for research and conservation of animals in the rain forest.

“In addition to expanding their hearts, children also solidify their understanding about money as they sell, make change, and take daily counts of the proceeds in class,” Konrad said.

Konrad said Summit’s service projects help students “learn to share ideas and respectfully listen as they work out strategies for project success. These are important skills for any career.”

“As parents, do we dream only of what score our children achieve on tests, or do we hope that they are inspired to positively impact the world that will one day be in their hands?” she asked.

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF

M

ore than 80 Summit School of Ahwatukee students were joined by 20 parents and the entire teaching staff in a trip to Feed My Starving Children’s food-packing operation recently.

The trip, aimed at packing a year’s worth of meals for 84 children in the Philippines, helped fill service hour requirements for Summit’s middle school students and members of its National Junior Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society. The school and individual grades have other service projects as well.

“A feeling of thankfulness was palatable,” Summit spokeswoman Kathy Konrad said, adding participations “absorbed the realization that children in the Philippines die from malnourishment each year, and that their lives did not include a concern for such a basic necessity.”

“Summit students also practiced collaboration and communication while working in teams,” Konrad added. “They all returned to school with a little more compassion than when they left.”

The Junior Honor Society didn’t stop with Feed My Starving Children.

Members also spent a Saturday turning plastic grocery bags into sleeping mats for homeless people.

“Parents and students of all ages

(Micki McIntyre/Special to AFN)

Packing food for Feed My Starving Children are Summit School of Ahwatukee middle school students, from left, Jack Rodriguez, Nicholas Morrison and Adam Matchinskye. In the foreground, preschool/first grade students Natalie and William Steenken take a break.

ahwatukee.com

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THURSDAY, OCT. 6 Party will get folks ‘glowing’

Ironwood Library is hosting a “Glow in the Dark Party.” “We’ll turn down the lights and turn up the fun with awesome activities, games, and crafts,” a spokeswoman said.

DETAILS>> 2-4 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. No registration required. Ages 6-11.

SATURDAY, OCT. 8 Papel Picado craft taught

Learn the ancient art of folding and cutting tissue paper to make special Mexican holiday decorations. All supplies provided; registration required.

DETAILS>> 2-3:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. Register in the calendar section at phxlib.org.

TUESDAY, OCT. 11 Nutrition and memory discussed

The impact of nutrition and lifestyle on memory care will be discussed in a session that will include tips to help people suffering from memory loss.

DETAILS>> 6 p.m., Hawthorne Court, 13822 S. 46th Place, Ahwatukee. Free.

RSVP: 480-359-2898.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

at the door or by calling 480-345-2686.

THURSDAY, OCT. 13

TUESDAY, OCT. 18

Series looks at women and wealth Writing group offers critiques Why is the economic influence of women growing? What are the unique financial challenges that women face, and how do they affect long-term financial security? Come learn the answers to these questions AT Ironwood Library’s financial series. Attendees will receive a free electronic workbook and worksheets.

Presented by Katrina Lessard, CFP. DETAILS>> 6:30-7:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. No registration required.

SUNDAY, OCT. 16 Evening of music planned

“A Night on Broadway,” with selections from Cole Porter and George Gershwin to Andrew Lloyd Weber and Rogers and Hammerstein, will feature the gifted musicians of St. James Episcopal Church.

The evening includes a silent auction of art, jewelry, desserts, tickets and other exceptional items.

DETAILS>> 6:30-9 p.m., 975 E. Warner Road, Tempe. A $10 donation benefits St. James and includes two beverages. Tickets:

Bring in five pages of writing to get feedback on from fellow writers.

Participants should bring four to five extra copies to hand out.

DETAILS>> 6-7:45 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. No registration required. Information: haley. dziuk@phoenix.gov.

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 19 Medicare discussion slated

Ahwatukee consultant Greg J. Geryak is holding the first of two sessions titled “Understanding Medicare.” The free seminars will examine Medicare’s four parts, including applicants’ rights, options and entitlements; how to enroll; and what is covered and not covered.

DETAILS>> 2-3 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee.

Questions/RSVP: 480-797-5615.

SATURDAY, OCT. 22 Church slates fall festival

festival with free food trucks, live music, Frisbee golf, cactus toss, table top carnival games, face and pumpkin painting and a reverse dunk tank.

DETAILS>> 3-5 p.m., 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. Free.

THURSDAY, OCT. 27 Medicare discussion slated

Ahwatukee consultant Greg J. Geryak is holding a session titled “Understanding Medicare.” The free seminar will examine Medicare’s four parts, including applicants’ rights, options and entitlements; how to enroll; and what is covered and not covered.

DETAILS>> 3-4 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee.

Questions/RSVP: 480-797-5615.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 9 Holiday boutique planned

The Hope’s Treasures Holiday Boutique returns this year with quality handcrafted holiday and home décor, decorations, gifts for kids and adults, stocking stuffers, jewelry, handcrafted apparel, comfort items and more. Shoppers are invited

Mountain View Lutheran Church will hold its fourth annual community fall

See

CALENDAR on page 32

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$1.44-mil Ahwatukee home sells in just 17 days in Canyon Reserve AFN NEWS STAFF

I

t took only 17 days for yet another Ahwatukee home to fetch more than $1 million.

The split-level, 6,100-square-foot home at 14407 S. Canyon Drive recently sold for $1,442,000, just 3.5 percent less than its $1,495,000 listing price, according to mls.com.

The house was built

in 1994 and last sold in 2010 for $1,400,000— 30 percent less than its $2 million sold price three years earlier.

Nestled on a 2-acre mountainside lot, the house is located in the exclusive gated community of Canyon Reserve in Mountain Ranch.

It sports 4 bedrooms and 5.5 baths, but three “bonus” rooms in the home could be converted into bedrooms, according

to the listing, which called the home “a private estate on a coveted hillside” offering “privacy and serenity at its finest.”

“This magnificent home is architecturally enriched with grand spaces, warm touches and amazing attention to detail,” the listing description continued, calling attention to its “beautiful stone and hardwood floors, See

MILLION on page RE 2

SPOTLIGHT home Spectacular Custom Split Level home in Desirable Equestrian Estates. Soaring ceilings & clerestory windows create a dramatic appeal.

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This split-level house on S. Canyon Drive, Ahwatukee, sold recently for $1.44 million only 17 days after it was listed.

MILLION

(Special to AFN)

from page RE 1

soaring ceilings and hand-chiseled glass fireplaces” in the master bedroom and family room.

An expansive wall of windows comprises the back of the house, affording “spectacular views” of the mountainside.

The same views are enjoyed by residents and guests from the fire pit, wet bar, full barbecue range, pool, outdoor spa shower and copper-roofed ramada, all gracing the back patio area.

Granite counters and stainless steel appliances are featured in the spacious indoor kitchen, which includes a large pantry and two full ovens. Casual eating areas are the breakfast bar in the kitchen and an adjacent breakfast room.

Master bedrooms on both the upper level and the main floor are each equipped with a sizeable walk-in closet.

(Special to AFN)

The home’s spacious backyard abuts a secluded two-acre lot and includes a pool, spa and copper-roofed ramada.

(Special to AFN)

Besides a built-in entertainment center, the family room features a handcarved glass fireplace.

Page 2 REAL ESTATE | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

(Special to AFN)

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Amazing gated Canyon Verde 6 bedroom Forte semi-custom home sitting on a lot surrounded by mountain preserve and the Club West golf course on 3 sides. Foyer opens to spacious formal living and formal dining rooms including a 300+ bottle wine cellar/wet bar. Beautiful gourmet kitchen with Viking appliances, kitchen island with breakfast bar, granite counters,custom cabinets, breakfast nook with panoramic views and a walk-in pantry. Large family room with Nuvo Whole House Audio System, custom stone fireplace. Downstairs media room with 7.1 Dolby surround sound and HD projector. Another bedroom downstairs with its own bathroom. Spacious master bedroom suite with private covered balcony/patio. Luxury master bath with dual sinks, custom cabinets, stone counters, stone walk-in shower and more!

Ahwatukee home sales fell from previous month and August 2015

BY LINDA BERG AFN GUEST WRITER

A

ugust home sales in Ahwatukee fell from the previous month and the previous August as yearto-date sales for the first eight months of 2016 stayed slightly ahead of the same time period last year.

According to the Arizona Regional MLS, the total 144 sales recorded in August was 4.6 percent down from August 2015 and 11.7 percent down from the 163 sold in July.

Still, overall sales for this year through the end of August totaled 1,186—2.5 percent of ahead of the total sold in the first eight months of last year.

The median sold price in August of $287,000 was up from the $272,500 median sold price in August 2015 while the average list price of all August listings was $454,547, up 2 percent from last year and up 8.8 percent from the $312,141 average list price in August 2015.

Market time, or days on the market (DOM) is an indicator of whether we are in a buyers or sellers’ market. An increasing trend in DOM may indicate more of a buyers’ market, while a downward trend may indicate a sellers’ market.

August’s DOM of 51 was down 7.3 percent from 55 days in July and up 15.9 percent from what it was in August of last year.

The selling and asking price per square foot—good indicators of the direction of property values—were up in August.

The August asking price per square foot of $167 was up 4 percent over July and 5 percent over August 2015. The selling price per square foot in August was $156—a 2 percent rise over July and a 3 percent increase over August of last year.

August’s new listing inventory increased to 183, up 9.6 percent from 167 in July and down slightly from August 2015.

The total inventory of homes for sale in August was 461, up 9.2 percent from July and about 1.5 percent over the total for August 2015.

The median list price for all current listings is $359,500, while the median sales price is $287,000. The average list price for current listings is $454,547 while the average sales price is $339,501.

The month’s total inventory has increased by 9 percent, while sales dropped 12 percent.

As inventory increases and sales decline, the home prices can be impacted.

The days on the market have decreased 7 percent, medium sales prices are up 1 percent and listing-to-sales ratios are slightly higher. Interest rates are starting to climb.

The biggest issue home owners are facing in this current market involves appraisals, and it’s important for sellers to look at the market before pricing their home.

-Linda Berg is associate broker/branch manager for Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. Reach her at 480-753-3122, 480-205-2296, or real-estatephoenix.com.

Diamond Ridge

$575,000 WOW! Don’t miss this almost 4000 square foot masterpiece in Gated Diamond Ridge sitting on interior corner lot! This complete re-model has all the right upgrades with the perfect floor plan! 5 beds plus office/3.5 baths/2.5 car garage/heated and cooled pebble tech pool&spa, built-in BBQ and outdoor fireplace! Over $200,000 remodel includes kitchen expansion with custom cabinets, granite counters,double oven, all bathrooms with replaced toilets, custom cabinets and granite counters. Huge Laundry room with custom cabinets.New wood floors and carpet 6 months ago, plantation shutters, classy closets. Newer Trane A/C, custom wall unit in family room!Pool has water cooling A?C!.Sec Sys doesn’t convey.Gated Comm. Steps from MPR comm pool. Seller will convert to 3.5 car garage upon buyer request.

Camelot Canyon Foothills

$459,900 Stunning area! Amazing move in ready Camelot Canyon Foothills home is ready for you! Pristine interior with high ceilings, designer paint and tile flooring! Living room has bay windows and plantation shutters. Eat in kitchen opens to the family room with black appliances, honey oak cabinets, island and ample counter space. Family room offers a tiled fireplace and built in media center with plenty of shelving! Huge master downstairs w/ walk in closet. Staircase leads to the huge loft and other bedrooms. Backyard oasis has a refreshing blue pool & spa, green grass, built in BBQ, beehive fireplace , covered patio and privacy wall. Nestled on dead end street with mountain views! Amazing Schools & neighbors.

Estates at Montego Bay

$355,000 Gorgeous Ahwatukee Waterfront home! Welcoming gated courtyard, boasting 2 stories, 3 br/ 2.75 ba, 1 bed/ Wow! What a Lakewood beauty! This 3222 square foot, 5 bedroom, 2.5 bath with pebble tech pool and 3 car garage sitting on a large interior corner lot with North-South exposure is the best value in Lakewood! New paint and Carpet installed June 2016!

Nice eat-in kitchen with granite counter tops and a two way fireplace to family room. Master bedroom is downstairs and all upstairs bedrooms are oversized. Tile floors, plantation shutter and much more. Enjoy the beautiful lakes, parks and green belts in Lakewood. Excellent Kyrene schools and Desert Vista High School. Don’t miss it! It won’t last long!

PENDING

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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | REAL ESTATE

Page 3

of Chandler

Developer of leased-luxury-home communities eyeing Ahwatukee All communities are pet-friendly, gated and include resort-style pools— and are maintained by Avilla’s property developer whose communities management company. of leased luxury homes are The company seeks convenient sprouting up around the East locations close to freeways, shopping and Valley is eyeing Ahwatukee for what is local attractions, explained Hartman. becoming the latest trend in housing for “Following the real estate turmoil of millennials and Baby Boomers alike. the late 2000s, we saw a shift in how Now all that Avilla Homes has to do is consumers are approaching everyday find some land. living,” said Hartmann, who moved to Avilla Homes, a division of NexMetro Mesa in 1998 from Wisconsin.

Communities, already has four other “Growing numbers of home seekers leased luxury home communities in are looking for convenience, flexibility various stages of development in the and upscale lifestyle amenities that East Valley and has properties like Avilla opened communities Grace can offer, all while in Chandler and avoiding the burdens of Goodyear. Both Phoenix home ownership, such as companies have been long-term commitment, building homes for lease maintenance and the since 2010. risk of a depreciating “We are very interested asset,” he explained. in the Ahwatukee Avilla Grace, for area, although 10-acre example, is minutes properties there are from Chandler Fashion hard to find,” said Josh Square and just two Hartmann, NexMetro’s miles from the Gilbert chief operating officer.

Heritage District with “It’s an area of strong (Will Powers/AFN Staff Photographer) its many restaurant, incomes and is attractive Angela Weber likes the fact retail, arts and culture her leased home is modern to many young people, that opportunities. Nearby without the burden of a monthly who are prime residents mortgage. is a dog park and other for us,” he added. urban “live/work/play” By that he means people like Adaire amenities.

Ridenour, a millennial, who loves her At all communities, one- and two-year detached leased home for the privacy it leases are available, from $985-a-month offers. for a one-bedroom home to $1,500 In the same community, Avilla Grace monthly for a three-bedroom, varying in Chandler, Baby Boomer Angela Weber by community. doesn’t want to buy—at least for now.

This will be the second Avilla Homes “I chose a rental home because I am neighborhood in the Valley, joining new to the area and did not want to Avilla Palm Valley in Goodyear, which make an ownership commitment until opened earlier this year. The company I better understand Phoenix,” she said. expects to add eight neighborhoods later Opened in June, the 194-home Avilla this year in Phoenix, Denver, and Dallas Grace is one of NexMetro’s high-quality metro areas. hybrids that combine the advantages In the East Valley, the 116-home Avilla of residential single-family living Heights debuts this fall in Chandler, with apartment-like lease terms and Avilla Town Square with 152 homes in management.

Gilbert in March 2017, and 225-home They also come without the Avilla Victoria in Queen Creek, also in disadvantages of home ownership and March 2017. shared-wall apartments.

Finally, Avilla Lehi Crossing, Val Vista Each one- to three-bedroom property and Thomas roads, should also open late is maintenance-free and features high- 2017 in Mesa. end standards such as private backyards, Many millennials and baby-boomers 10-foot ceilings, granite countertops, are shifting away from homeownership stainless steel appliances and custom and deciding that the American dream of cabinetry.

BY DAVID BROWN AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

A

Sale ends Nov. 7, 2016

Every

Carpet On Sale!

12 Month

FINANCING available* *See store for details. *Discounts apply to materials only on select items; cushion, labor, and installation charges are additional. Offers cannot be combined. All offers are for retail only; no contract/commercial. Prior orders exempt. See store for details on all offers and warranties. Offer expires 11/7/2016 Participating stores only. Not all merchandise is available in all stores. Photos are representational only.

Actual merchandise may not exactly match photos shown. Prices shown are for materials only; cushion, labor and installation charges are additional. Although we make every effort to ensure that our advertising is accurate, we cannot be held liable for typographical errors or misprints. †Financing provided by Synchrony Bank. See store for details. Subject to credit approval.

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Page 4 REAL ESTATE | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

See

LEASE on page RE5

Short sale produces a happy ending

BY STACEY LYKINS AFN GUEST WRITER

S

o, I had a short sale in Ahwatukee Customs. No one wanted it, its customer appeal narrowed by its unique Asian flare.

However, it was an extremely well-built house with aboveaverage construction quality and is located high up on the mountain.

It should not have even been a short sale, but it is for several factors. The buyer bought at the height of the market, it has unique construction and a divorce was forcing the sale.

We had numerous showings to investors and home buyers, but only received extremely lowball offers from investors who were looking to make double digit-returns

LEASE

from page RE4

owning a home is either an option they don’t want, or at least don’t want now, the company discovered in its post-Great Recession research.

The national homeownership rate now is 63.7 percent, down from the more than 69-percent peak in 2004, the company said, citing U.S. Census 2014 data.

“Millennials are our bread and butter,” Hartmann explained. “The trend for them is to get married later and have children later. Then, they may choose for the drive out to suburbs for the large yard and more space, but until then, many prefer the amenities of the urban infill lifestyle.”

Some millennials carry extensive student debt, but other factors apply, including family tradition, Hartmann said. Children of parents who owned a home are about three times as likely to be owners themselves as those who grew up in renter households, he said.

Even the more established Generation Xers, the age cohort following the boomers who range in age from 35 into the 40s, have been rethinking home ownership.

at the expense of the sellers and their neighbors.

An investor purchase does not benefit the homeowner, the neighborhood or the lender.

Then came a young couple with five children, one with special needs. They had one adopted child and were looking to adopt another from a third-world country.

They didn’t make a great offer, but the bank accepted it.

The buyers could not have been more deserving of this house.

They and their five children had been living in a 1,900-square-foot home and are now moving into a house that is 4,000 square feet.

The buyers and their children were excited to have a house with a pool, quiet space for their autistic child, four bedrooms and a giant basement.

There will only be two children per bedroom.

“Many of their parents were hurt in the downturn, and they are taking a closer look at the advantages of having peace of mind by renting,” he noted.

And, families and married couples, 45 to 64, are responsible for about twice the share of renter growth as households under age 35, according to Harvard University statistics, Hartmann said.

What’s more, wealthy baby boomers, households in the top half of the income distribution, contributed 43 percent of the growth in renters, also from Harvard University data.

“A lot of retirees are downsizing.

The children have gone to college, and the house is now too big for them,” Hartmann said. “They want to travel, play golf and although they don’t want to maintain a big home, but they still want the privacy of a home, which they can’t have with an apartment.”

In Chandler, Weber hears no noise from neighbors, and when she sees them, she finds them friendly. She enjoys the trees and plants throughout the property; and appreciates having no HOA fees.

“Avilla Grace offers a friendly and clean environment, where I feel happy and safe,” she said.

The seller was thrilled to be selling to a family that loves the home’s eccentricity and appreciates its beauty. The seller felt like the home was going to buyers who not only love and appreciate it but would create memories that will last forever.

My entire experience was so much more than selling a house. This was about doing the best for the buyer as well as the neighborhood and the overall

community.

Sometimes good things happen to good people. The seller is happy. the buyers cannot wait to give their expanding family a place to live, love and grow. And the neighborhood is better off because it is welcoming a deserving resident and not a faceless investor.

-Associate Broker Stacey Lykins, West USA, can be reached at 602-616-9971, S.Lykins@ LykinsProperties.com or LykinsProperties.com.

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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | REAL ESTATE

Page 5

Luxury home market picking up in Ahwatukee

BY BONNY HOLLAND AFN GUEST WRITER

T

he forecast for the Valley’s luxury-home market this year is sunny with a chance of a big improvement over last year.

In the market for homes priced over $1 million, inventory has fallen sharply over the last three months, as it often does this time of year.

That means less competition for sellers, but also fewer choices for buyers.

Michael Orr, founder and owner of the Cromford Report, said that so far this year, sale prices have not improved for luxury home sellers it takes a long time for inventory reductions to impact pricing.

He also notes that it is common for the inventory of luxury homes to rise between October and March, so we won’t know until next April if the market has improved for sellers.

The biggest improvement for sellers involved homes over $3 million. The average square-foot price rose 2.9 percent

from $500 to $514.

The average square-foot price declined for homes between $1 million and $3 million with the steepest decline involving homes in the $1.5 million to $2-million price range. Average square-foot price declined in that category by 1.1 percent, from $318 last year to a current $314.

The luxury home market in Ahwatukee is finding 2016 to be stronger than last year, with the average square-foot price virtually unchanged.

In Ahwatukee last year, 18 luxury homes were listed and sold in 2015 with an average square-foot price of $235. Up to Sept. 1 this year, 18 luxury homes have already sold, with an average square-foot price of $234.

Currently there are 25 luxury homes on the market in Ahwatukee with an average square-foot price of $257.

This year has been interesting for Ahwatukee’s real estate market.

Up through the end of April, only two homes closed for more than $1 million.

The market picked up steam in May, with August seeing closings on five homes for

Inspire Kids Montessori 4025 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF

D

more than $1 million each.

Mike Salyer, a Keller Williams, Sonoran Living managing broker, said these highend closings have swung the average sales price in Ahwatukee from $320,306 in July to $341,032 in August for an increase of 6.1 percent.

With several million-plus listings

pending, Ahwatukee may have an even better chance than the Valley of seeing a stronger luxury home market this year over last.

-Bonny Holland, of Keller Williams, Sonoran Living in Ahwatukee Foothills, can be reached at 602-3691085, leadingluxuryexperts.com or on Facebook and Twitter.

iana Darmawaskita had a lifelong goal of creating a school that would inspire children to reach their full potential and develop a love of learning. Her dream was realized in 2010 when she founded Inspire Kids Montessori in Ahwatukee.

The mission of Inspire Kids is to “provide a safe and loving environment in which a child’s individuality and uniqueness is respected and their creativity and independence are celebrated,” said Darmawaskita, who holds a degree in civil engineering and is trained in the Montessori Method of early education.

The school offers individualized programs for children 6 weeks to 6 years of age that introduce reading, writing, math, nature study, art, music and movement and social and problem-solving skills to help guide them towards independence and healthy habits later in life.

Infant, toddler and primary (preschool through kindergarten) programs are aimed at developing each child’s academic

(Special to AFN)

Lead teacher Kim Aguilar discusses pie making with, from left: Ivy Tao and Baylen King at Inspire Kids Montessori in Ahwatukee.

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BONNY HOLLAND Leading Luxury Home Experts

Ahwatukee Resident Since 1992

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and social skills in a nurturing, positive environment with a focus on total child development.

Inspire Kids Primary students follow a challenging curriculum which also integrates the concepts of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Programs are taught using an active learning and project-based approach and accelerated programs are available for gifted children.

Students also learn to treat others with grace and courtesy and to respect the community and the environment.

“Montessori education helps a child become more confident and independent when they move on to elementary school and has a positive effect on their academic and social progress throughout their lives,” said Darmawastika.

Inspire Kids will hold a free open house 9-11 a.m. Oct. 14 that will include a discusson about Montessori early education.

Information: 480-659-9402, info@inspirekidsmontessori.com, or inspirekidsmontessori.com.

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Page 6

1337 E Desert Flower Lane

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Stunning remodeled home in highly sought community of Richmond Heights.

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REAL ESTATE | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

1916 E Briarwood Terrace

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Fabulous recently upgraded waterfront golf course single family home with panoramic views!

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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | REAL ESTATE Page 7

Just plane fun Homeowners are flying high at Chandler’s Stellar Airpark

BY MIKE BUTLER AFN STAFF WRITER

M

ike Lane and his wife, Sally, like to have breakfast some weekends at Crosswinds restaurant at the Payson Airport.

It would take nearly a couple hours coming from Ahwatukee.

But it’s just a 30-minute jaunt from Chandler in his 300 horsepower, singleengine Bonanza F33A, not including the 20-30 minutes he spends on a preflight inspection, and the three minutes or so it takes him to taxi to one of Stellar Airpark’s two runways.

Like thousands of other East Valley subdivisions, where life revolves around serene lakeside living or bustling golf courses and clubhouses, Stellar Airpark has a tie that binds its more than 100 homeowners.

It just happens to be piloting magnificent flying machines into the wild blue yonder.

“The common interest in aviation really draws people together,” Lane says.

“It’s really a fantastic group of people.”

“I don’t think we have a bad apple in the bunch here,” says Larry Perkins, a retired commercial airline pilot.

“Everyone speaks fluent aviation.”

The Lanes, who work in IT, moved to Stellar 10 years ago. Mike was visiting his sister in the Valley and noticed bulldozers moving dirt around south of Chandler Boulevard and Galaxy Drive, west of Chandler Fashion Center. When he saw the well-maintained runways and distinctive homes sprouting up, he and Sally started charting a move from metropolitan Washington, D.C. Sally was nervous at first. She feared she might become isolated, hanging out with other spouses who had little interest in business or community. Neighbors she got to know disabused her of that notion, and the Lanes quickly settled into the community’s cruising speed.

Up and away

At Stellar, even the street names are out of this world. In the older north section, main streets such as Stellar Parkway and Galaxy Drive branch off into Mercury,

Venus, Saturn and Jupiter Ways. In the newer south section, custom homes— mostly in the Mediterranean style—line Kitty Hawk, Lindbergh, Earhart and Rickenbacker Ways.

All but a few of the homes in the two gated communities have cleverly disguised hangers attached to the back.

The hangers are served by short taxiways that lead to and from the runways.

Lane says the airport’s 3,900-foot asphalt runways are long enough to accommodate small jets, such as the Cessna Citation, which several residents own.

But many Stellar residents cling to the old ways. Larry Perkins’ personal plane is a 1946 Aeronca 7AC. He also flies an old Howard, a vintage Bell helicopter and a replica P-64/NA-50, which was used as a fighter plane and trainer during World War II. “If you don’t run these things,” explains Perkins, 72, “they’ll deteriorate.”

As a lad growing up in the ’50s, Perkins rode his bike to a local airport, where he plunked down the enormous sum of $5 to ride in an airplane. He loved it so much that he rode his bike back to the airport the next week and got a job with the fixed-base operator as a line boy.

Fast, but gas isn’t cheap

By his late teens, Perkins was taking former flight teachers up in the air, serving the California National Guard and flying for hire.

Fixed-base operators are like marinas.

They provide fuel, maintenance, aircraft rentals and rent tie-down lines to pilots who don’t have private hangers or just want to use the airport temporarily or seasonally.

Avgas, as pilots call it, is expensive: $4.69 per gallon, currently. Most of that is federal tax that helps to build new general-aviation airports. Lane says the tradeoff for getting to San Diego in 100 minutes is a $240 avgas bill.

East of the runways, spanning to McClintock Drive, there’s a compact commercial section of the airpark that houses industrial-park-type businesses and large hangers for oversize or overflow aircraft. A small flight school fell victim

(Will Powers/AFN Staff Photographer)

Planes of all types fly over Ahwatukee and into Chandler Airpark, where the owners can taxi right up to the front door of their homes.

to the 2008 recession.

But Stellar Airpark is looking like it will finally reach its own version of build-out soon. According to Lane, Stellar’s fixed base operator plans to use some of his space to develop condominiums with hangers. Another developer is going through city channels to build 12-14 custom homes on a vacant strip of land in the north section of airpark, along Beechcraft Place just south of Chandler Boulevard.

A farmer plants a seed

In 1969, Harold Earley Jr., a cotton farmer, thought it would be a cool idea to be able to land a private plane in West Chandler and taxi it right into your home, according to Stellar’s resident historian, Joe Martin.

He sketched out 40 homes with private taxiways and another 40 with access to a tie-down area. The forward-thinking farmer also envisioned building a motel and having a cafe above a fixed-base operator where residents and the public could dine and enjoy watching small planes take off and land.

Earley developed the airport and got about 40 homes built in the north section of Stellar Airpark, but he died in a plane crash in 1975, before his dream could be fully realized.

Tom Van Sickle, a local developer, bought the property from Earley’s estate in 1976, and he started building the industrial park. In 1979, the airpark had achieved enough mass to be annexed by the City of Chandler.

Unfortunately, Van Sickle borrowed against the undeveloped south half of Stellar Airpark, and he became ensnared in the savings and loan crisis of the late

Page 8 REAL ESTATE | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

1980s. All of a sudden, a big chunk of Stellar was owned by the Resolution Trust Corp.

Then, in 1990, Maricopa County threw down a delinquent property tax bill to the tune of $200,000. The airport was perilously close to being transferred to a tax-lien investor.

Residents dug deep in their pockets to legally defend themselves and hastily formed a nonprofit organization called the Stellar Runway Utilizers Association. Incredibly, according to Martin’s research, the SRUA managed to buy back the assets from Resolution Trust for $500, and persuaded Maricopa County to settle the delinquent tax bill for $1,000.

In 1999, Jeff Mark—the Mark part of Mark-Taylor, the high-end apartment developer—bought the south section and cleared the way to develop 65 new lots. As part of the deal, he renovated the runways and upgraded the lighting/ navigation aids and taxiways.

Perhaps because pilots feel blessed to be able to fly, and thankful for every safe takeoff and landing, they have a keen sense of giving back.

Mike Lane, for example, is an honorary commander with the 62nd Fighter Squadron at Luke Air Force Base, and he uses that opportunity to arrange tours of the base for youth groups. Other residents volunteer for Angel Flights, which ferry patients who can’t afford commercial flights to distant hospitals.

Larry Perkins is one of the pilots who flies the B-17G Flying Fortress at Falcon Field to benefit the Commemorative Air Force Base.

“It’s like driving a big truck with the power steering broken,” Perkins said.

SPOTLIGHT home

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Split Level home in desirable Equestrian Estates. Soaring ceilings & clerestory windows, rich wood floors & plantation shutters create a dramatic appeal. Private master suite is expansive w/ natural light and balcony/view deck w/ French doors. Master bath features tile surround snail shower, garden soaking tub & Dual Vanities. Enormous walk-in closet with linen storage. Updated gourmet kitchen w/ island cook top, stainless appliances, double ovens, Slab Granite, warm espresso cabinets & skylights. Dual bar counter areas are great for entertaining. Breakfast room adjoins Family room with striking stacked stone fireplace. Bonus room for many uses, features built-in cabinets & French door access to cozy courtyard w/fire pit. Private pool and fireplace surrounded by lush mature landscaping, built-in BBQ, extended patio, w/ sport court & grassy area. This split floor plan has large secondary bedrooms on the main level with two additional updated baths. Master is secluded on its own floor one half flight up, and barage is one half flight down from the main house. Roomy Laundry with ample storage, utility sink, counter work space and greenhouse window. RV Parking and oversized garage w/ cabinets. Ahwatukee Gem with great mountain views, hiking, biking and horse paths.

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Equestrian Estates Stunning single-level estate located in prestigious Ahwatukee Custom Estates. Almost 4000 sq. ft., 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath plus executive office. Perfect floorplan. Gated courtyard entry. Great room w/ fireplace. Formal dining room. Kitchen includes S/S appliances, custom cabinets, cooktop, large island, skylight & walk-in pantry. Breakfast room overlooking front courtyard.

Large master suite, master bath with dual vanities, Jacuzzi tub, snail shower & his/her closets. Secondary bedrooms w/walk-in closets, guest quarters, teen suite, 2nd master on the opposite end of house, perfect for multi-generational families & teens.

Tranquil backyard w/pebble sheen pool, rock waterfall, firepit, covered patio, palm trees, mature landscaping & observation deck w/South Mountain views. A truly special home, the possibilities are endless!

Amazing sunset and mountain views from updated single level.

4 br, 3 ba with 3,056 sq. ft.

Spacious eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances.

Zebrawood plank tile and wood flooring. Resortstyle backyard with retractable door, multiple fire pits with seating, diving pool with waterfall, builtin BBQ with bar, in-ground trampoline and tropical landscaping.

Listed for $649,000

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Mike Mendoza

480.706.7234 • www.MendozaTeam.com

Geno Ross 602.751.2121 • www.GenoRoss.com ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | REAL ESTATE

Page 9

Appraiser shortage threatens to slow down closures in home sales AFN NEWS SERVICES

H

ome buyers may have to prepare to hurry up and wait.

Even if they’ve found your dream home, made an offer that’s been accepted, and passed that critical home inspection hurdle, there’s something major happening in the housing industry that quietly could grind the last mile of the home-buying marathon to a screeching halt.

The culprit: a home appraiser shortage.

A big one, in fact.

Odds are, many buyers have never given home appraisers a second thought, assuming they even know what they do.

But when buyers go for a mortgage, this is the pro that a lender hires to check out the property, making sure it’s a good investment since it’s their money on the line, too.

These days, there just aren’t enough qualified home appraisers to go around, and it’s causing delays among home buyers eager to close their deals.

According to a new study by Campbell/ Inside Mortgage Finance, the percentage of on-time closings has dropped over the past six months, from 77 percent in April to 64 percent today. Appraisalrelated holdups jumped 50 percent in this time period, so it’s clear they’re the bottleneck.

Experts say this shortage dates to

2008. In the wake of the housing crisis, the Federal Housing Administration tightened regulations around home appraisals in an effort to protect banks and home buyers. It upgraded the talent pool, but significantly shrank it at the same time.

Before that point, licensed home appraisers could send an apprentice studying under them to head out and handle the on-site inspection of the house in question. But after 2008, the FHA said the licensed appraiser has to make the house call, too.

Home appraisers, seeing that their apprentices weren’t saving them much legwork, cut them loose. With fewer home appraisers-to-be in the pipeline, the number of professionals in this workforce has shrunk by 22% since 2007, according to the Appraisal Institute.

And the current batch of practicing home appraisers is aging, with over 60 percent past the age of 50, and creeping closer to retirement every day.

Should home buyers panic?

For home buyers, this home appraiser shortage doesn’t just try their patience. It could stress their pocketbooks, too.

Since they typically “lock in” their mortgage interest rate for a certain time period, an appraisal holdup could push them past that expiration date, forcing

them to renegotiate at a higher interest rate (because yes, they are rising now).

Even worse, in hot markets where a home’s market value can change in a matter of a couple of months, an appraisal delay could mean the appraised value of a home could come in much lower (or higher) than back when the offer was first made—which could cause the whole deal to fall through completely.

What a home buyer can do

For one, there’s less of a chance of succumbing to the home-closing equivalent of road rage if they’re braced for gridlock ahead. They should ask real estate agent and loan officer if they anticipate delays and plan accordingly.

“The Realtors and loan officers know if their market is one that is experiencing the severe appraisal delays; not all markets are,” said Tal Frank, president of PhysicianLoans.com.

But if your market has an appraisal backlog, he added, “You should expect the appraisal to be delayed and therefore the closing to take two to four weeks longer. If there is proper communication and expectations upfront, home buyers and home sellers should not end up in a panicked state.

“Rather than closing in 30 days, it may take 60,” he said. “Not awful if everyone knows this at the start of the transaction.”

Home buyers in affected markets should also lock in their interest rate for longer periods of time.

“Some companies offer a standard 30day lock, but the 60-day lock is advisable in the affected markets,” Frank explained.

“If the buyer is working with a lender that offers 30-day locks as standard, the buyer can either wait to lock or pay the lender a fee upfront to extend the lock period.”

But what if a buyer is already kneedeep in the process and can’t turn back time? Consider paying a “rush fee”—at least 20 percent on top of the usual cost, perhaps more depending on the market.

Buyers can also try appealing to a home appraiser directly.

“Most appraisers are self-employed, so they aren’t constrained by bureaucratic rules and procedures. This means they can bump your appraisal up their priority list if you can convince them to do so,” pointed out Brian Davis, a real estate investor and co-founder of SparkRental.com. “Often, a simple phone call explaining the urgency of the situation might suffice.”

Because after all, Davis added, while they may be in short supply, “Appraisers are people, and many are willing to work an extra couple hours one evening in order to help you settle on your new home.”

Appraisers protect banks and the buyer from bad deals AFN NEWS SERVICES

I

f you need a mortgage to buy a home, your lender will require a home appraisal—where a professional estimates the value of your place to make sure it’s at least enough to cover the mortgage.

While the lender hires the appraiser, the buyer pays for it, which begs the question: What’s the cost of a home appraisal?

While the cost of a home appraisal varies by the size and location of your home among other factors, generally you can expect to pay around $300 or $400, according to recent estimates.

Appraisals are educated guesses by licensed or certified professionals on a home’s value in the current market.

Unlike a home inspector, who looks for defects that could cost the buyer money down the road, an appraiser looks at home components that contribute to its value—mostly location, square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and overall condition, said George Alexa of Alexa Residential Appraisal in Fairfax Station, Virginia, who has appraised more than 16,000 properties in the past 30 years.

To assess a home’s value, the appraiser will likely visit your home and compare it to nearby comparable homes, or

“comps,” that have recently sold.

This is similar to how a Realtor estimates a home’s value.

But make no mistake, home appraisers don’t work for home sellers or buyers.

They work for lenders and help them decide if the home is a sound investment and worthy of the loan you’re asking for.

In short, appraisers protect the bank and buyers from a bad deal, so they’re worth every penny.

Once the home appraisal is finished, you will receive a copy of the report from your bank. If the home’s appraised value ends up higher than what you’re paying, generally the deal will move forward.

If the appraised value is lower than what

Page 10 REAL ESTATE | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

you offered, this can cause trouble, since your lender will offer you a mortgage only at the appraised price.

Let’s say you need a loan for $250,000 but the appraisal comes in at $240,000.

The bank will cover only $240,000, which means you’re $10,000 short of the money you need to buy the home.

If your offer included an appraisal contingency, you can renegotiate the price with the seller and, if she doesn’t budge, walk away from the deal (and keep your deposit). Or you could decide to pay the additional $10,000 out of pocket so your home loan goes through.

In either case, you have options, so discuss them with your Realtor.

Ahwatukee homes sold 85044 $121,000 10610 S. 48th St. $152,800 11208 S. Tomah St. $210,000 4790 E. Kiva St. $213,500 12242 S. Shoshoni Drive $215,000 3926 E. Gail Drive $233,000 4310 E. La Puente Ave. $239,000 4760 E. Mountain Sage Drive $239,000 4425 E. Bannock St. $240,000 5015 E. Cheyenne Drive $265,300 4327 E. Sequoia Trail $273,400 4123 E. Cathedral Rock Drive $280,000 14819 S. 46th St. $305,000 11802 S. 46th St. $308,000 4330 E. Dry Creek Road $309,900 4107 E. Cathedral Rock Drive $330,000 4505 E. Ute St. $333,000 4337 E. Mcneil St. $411,000 3420 E. Winona St. $429,000 14648 S. 46th St. $605,000 3307 E. Coconino St. 85045 $241,500 1559 W. Lacewood Place $255,000 1672 W. Satinwood Drive $270,000 3030 W. Redwood Lane

$275,000 $350,000 $360,000 $365,000 $620,000

16619 S. 16th Drive 16428 S. 18th Drive 16818 S. 14th Drive 1306 W. Thunderhill Drive 526 W. Desert Flower Lane

85048 $118,000 $155,000 $194,000 $199,000 $225,000 $230,000 $250,000 $263,500 $272,500 $273,000 $290,000 $290,000 $295,000 $308,000 $315,233 $335,000 $335,000 $353,500 $374,000 $400,000 $417,500 $425,000

3236 E. Chandler Blvd.

3236 E. Chandler Blvd.

4514 E. Glenhaven Drive 16812 S. 22nd St. 1120 E. Hiddenview Drive 4436 E. Tanglewood Drive 4327 E. Amberwood Drive 16030 S. 45th St. 4202 E. Tanglewood Drive 2202 E. Mountain Sky Ave. 1324 E. Glenhaven Drive 16014 S. 13th Way 16656 S. 13th St. 3130 E. Amber Ridge Way 3357 E. Long Lake Road 3830 E. Windsong Drive 16805 S. 34th St. 3451 E. Glenhaven Drive 14815 S. 20th Place 3532 E. Brookwood Court 1354 E. Desert Trumpet Road 15813 S. 13th Place

Ahwatukee’s #1 Team for Over 28 Years

480-706-7234

Mike Mendoza

www.MendozaTeam.com

Mountain Park Ranch

Lakewood

Great greenbelt lot close to abundant Mountain Park Ranch amenities. 4 br, 3 ba with 2,739 sq. ft. Master suite with view balcony. 17" tile, carpet and wood laminate flooring in 2011. Energy efficient windows in 2007. Solar hot water system and Goettl A/C units in 2009. Exterior and interior paint in 2013.

Immaculate home with 100k in updates. 4 br, 2.5 ba with 2,490 sq. ft. Spacious kitchen features granite countertops, custom-finished cabinetry, walk-in pantry and stainless steel appliances. Downstairs master suite. New interior and exterior paint. Backyard amenities include extended paved patio plus sparkling play pool with water feature.

NG MI ON O C SO

Listed for $359,990

Lakewood Enjoy waterfront living in Ahwatukee. 3 br, 2.5 ba with 2,304 sq. ft. Open kitchen features granite countertops, cherry cabinetry and a breakfast bar.

New carpet in family room with fireplace. Brick patio plus Trex decking with gas fire pit. Superb lake and mountain views.

Call for List Price

Listed for $374,900

NG MI ON O C SO

Mountain Park Ranch Hillside lot with privacy of mountain preserve. 5 br, 3 ba with 3,546 sq. ft. Spacious open kitchen with adjacent family and formal dining room. Downstairs master and secondary bedroom. Great backyard amenities including fenced pool and spa, built-in fire pit and grass area.

Call for List Price

Club West

Mountain Park Ranch

Desirable Ritz floor plan by UDC. 4 br, 2.5 ba with 2,850 sq. ft. Large eat-in kitchen features granite countertops, island and stainless steel appliances. Just updated with new carpet, interior and exterior paint plus epoxy flooring in 3-car garage. North/South Exposure with mountain views. Private backyard with pool and spa.

Impeccable T.W. Lewis home with 5 br, 3 ba and 3,076 sq. ft. Spacious eat-in kitchen features black granite countertops and black appliances. One bedroom and full bath down with master suite and three secondary bedrooms upstairs. Resort-style backyard replete with amazing built-in kitchen, fire pit with seating, salt water pool and above ground spa.

Club West

Equestrian Estates

Recently updated on golf course lot. 5 br plus media room, 3 ba with 3,829 sq. ft. Open kitchen with granite countertops and custom island with gas cooktop. Inviting stone-accented wet bar and fireplace in family room. New carpet, interior and exterior paint. Resort-style backyard features Pebble Tec pool and spa with waterfall, built-in BBQ and lush landscaping.

Amazing sunset and mountain views from updated single level. 4 br, 3 ba with 3,056 sq. ft. Spacious eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances.

Zebrawood plank tile and wood flooring. Resort-style backyard with retractable door, multiple fire pits with seating, diving pool with waterfall, built-in BBQ with bar, in-ground trampoline and tropical landscaping.

Listed for $419,500

Listed for $549,500

Listed for $435,000

Listed for $649,000

www.MendozaTeam.com Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | REAL ESTATE

Page 11

Page 12 REAL ESTATE | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

CALENDAR

from page 29

to bring a non-perishable food item for Matthew’s Crossing food bank.

DETAILS>> Nov. 9-12, Hope Covenant Church, 1770 S. Dobson Road, Chandler. 4-8 p.m. Nov. 9, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 10-11, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 12. hopechurchchandler.com.

ONGOING Congregation plans Israel trip

Congregation NefeshSoul is planning a tour of Israel June 10-20, 2017. Explore historical sites along with the beauty and rich culture of Israel.

DETAILS>> Rabbi Susan Schanerman at rabbi@nefeshsoul.org.

MONDAYS Open play for kids offered

Open Playday is held through Dec. 19 by the Kyrene Early Education Resource Center to help children explore and make sense of the world around them.

DETAILS>> 9-11 a.m. Kyrene de las Lomas, 11820 S. Warner-Elliot Loop, Ahwatukee. Register: kyrene.org/earlyed.

Page 32

Chamber offers networking

Power Partners available

Group aids MS sufferers

WEDNESDAYS

The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce networking and leads group is open to chamber members.

DETAILS>> Noon, Native Grill and Wings, 5030 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee.

Devida Lewis, 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. The group mobilizes people and resources to drive research for a cure and to address the challenges people 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. Information: Lynn Grant at lgrant3567@yahoo.com or 480-414-7172.

TUESDAYS Toastmasters sharpen skills

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

The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce networking and leads group is open to chamber members.

DETAILS>> 8-9 a.m., Four Points by Sheraton, 10831 S. 51st St., Ahwatukee.

Devida Lewis, 480-753-7676.

Montessori holds open house

Ahwatukee Foothills Montessori is holds an open house weekly. It includes a short talk about Montessori education, followed by a tour of its campus.

DETAILS>> 4 p.m., 3221 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. 480-759-3810

Grief support is free

Hospice of the Valley offers a free ongoing grief support group for adults and is open to any adult who has experienced a loss through death. No registration required.

DETAILS>> 6-7 p.m. first and third Wednesdays, Pecos Community Center, 17010 S. 48th St. 602-636-5390, HOV. org.

Foothills Women meet

An informal, relaxed social organization of about 90 women living in the Ahwatukee

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

Foothills/Club West area. A way to escape once a month to have fun and meet with other ladies in the area. Guest speaker or entertainment featured.

DETAILS>> 7 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, Foothills Golf Club, 2201 E. Clubhouse Drive. Contact jstowe2@cox. net or FoothillsWomensClub.org.

Parents can ‘drop in’

Parents are invited to join a drop-in group to ask questions, share ideas or just listen to what’s going on with today’s teenagers.

DETAILS>> 5:30-7 p.m. second Wednesday of each month. Maricopa Cooperative Extension, 4341 E. Broadway Road, Phoenix. Free. RSVP at 602-8278200, ext. 348, or rcarter@cals.arizona. edu.

Get a donut with Democrats

Free and open to the public 7:30-9 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Biscuits Restaurant, 4623 E. Elliot Road.

RSVP: marie9@q.com or 480-592-0052. ahwatukee.com

Ahwatukee Foothills News online

Pollack Advertising Museum offers an unusual window to pop culture

BY SRIANTHI PERERA AFN STAFF WRITER

T

he Mesa corporate headquarters of Michael Pollack seems ordinary enough from the outside.

Inside is another matter. In addition to the opulent offices of the real estate mogul, the building houses three extraordinary museums, one a contender for the Guinness World Records.

Pollack’s 8,000-piece collection of threedimensional advertising memorabilia in the Pollack Advertising Museum is said to be the world’s largest and has pieces dating from the 1700s. It also houses 156 animated Baranger jewelry-store window displays of the mid-1900s. It’s estimated that 165 total were made.

His meticulously restored collections of antique wheeled slot machines and threereeler slot machines are no less unique.

Some of the wheel machines date to the 1900s and would dispense gum or candy or would play a song so saloon owners could circumvent the illegality of gambling.

The three-reelers include slot machines carved in the 1950s by Arizona cowboy

artist Frank Polk.

“I think it’s history, and I’m fascinated by history,” Pollack said.

Pollack submitted an application for the world records book after a Guinness representative toured the threedimensional advertising museum.

“There isn’t another place that has that many pieces of one type,” Pollack said.

Until 2009, the collections were open to the general public and counted nearly 300 daily visitors. It was hard to keep up and required extra resources. Nowadays, it’s open during charity fundraisers and by appointment to Pollack’s friends, acquaintances and serious collectors.

If you manage to wrangle an invite, it’s best to walk the rooms of any of the three displays with the collector himself.

In the absence of introductory plaques and devoid of the stories to give them context, the objects may seem just a collection of antique toys. It’s easy to forget that most of these objects were made before the Walt Disney Company was even founded.

So what’s there?

Advertisements featuring an elephant (Hamlin’s wizard oil—“great for pain”),

tea (Lipton), airlines (Air India), shipping lines (Hamburg), a wooden ship (Cutty Sark), a bear twirling on a motorcycle (Hamm’s Beer) and the Old Crow flapping his wings and moving his head while pedaling on a unicycle (Old Crow bourbon whisky). There’s a greenshirted Squirt boy, Buster Brown with his shoes and a life size Esso tiger, just to mention a few.

Another of Pollack’s favorite finds, with an accompanying narrative, is an apothecary’s display of a terracotta figurine of a little man with a pointy beard, a cat and many mice dating to the 1800s. His is a tale similar to that of the Pied Piper of Hamelin.

A village in Germany hires a man to kill rats and mice that are invading, is only paid half the agreed amount. He’s called again when the mice return. This time, the man asks for what was owed to him as well more for the new job, which the desperate villagers pay. The man finally brings in several cats that destroy the mice.

“That was the story that goes with him; it’s sounded like a really good one,” said Pollack, who had to clamber up a rat-

infested attic in a Berlin antiques store to retrieve the statue at the shop owner’s bidding.

Pollack is also particularly proud of his Baranger collection because the company made 165 or so machines, out of which he owns 156. Manufactured in Pasadena, California, the Baranger moving figures advertised pieces of jewelry. The machines were never sold to jewelry shops; instead, the company leased them and placed them inside the shop windows.

Pollack began his collection in northern California when he was about 12.

“I was fascinated by these moving, mechanical signs that were advertising different products,” he said.

He would buy items, such as electric beer, signs at flea markets on Saturdays, repair them at night and sell them for a profit on Sundays to antique stores.

“I actually was making money as a kid, but I was fascinated with these signs,” he said. “I liked them so much that I would try to keep one of each kind for myself. And, pretty soon, it went from a kid’s hobby to now one of the largest assemblages in the world.”

Information: pollackmuseum.com.

Toddler • Primary • Elementary • Adolescent

A Keystone Montessori Parenting Series

Free and Open to the Public Mom or Dad & Toddler (15-24 mos) You are invited to engage & explore with your child, in a carefully prepared Montessori toddler environment. Classes are led by a Montessori trained guide.

Tuesdays 9:00-10:00 AM • October 25-November 15

A Foundation for a Lifetime of Learning

Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4

Preparing an Environment for Toddlers Language and Movement Development Food Preparation Taking Care of Myself

Space is limted • RSVP to laura@keystonemontessori.com

www.keystonemontessori.com 1025 E. Liberty Ln. • Phoenix, AZ • 85048 • (480) 460-7312 ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 33

Right double truck page

Opinion

ahwatukee.com

Ahwatukee Foothills News online

Views expressed are those of the authors.

Bowie: Protect our schools from the Legislature

BY SEAN BOWIE AFN GUEST WRITER

O

ver the course of this campaign, I have knocked on over 10,000 doors to meet voters, hear their concerns, and tell them why I am running for State Senate.

By far, the biggest concern I hear from our community is about education, and the state of our public schools.

When my family moved to Arizona when I was young, we could have chosen to live anywhere in the Valley. We chose Chandler for one very important reason —our outstanding local public schools.

I was raised to value a good education, like so many families who chose this area. We are proud of our local public schools, and we want to keep them strong for generations to come.

Our schools are now under threat from the legislature. A decade of cuts has left our schools hurting. Our teacher turnover rate is the highest in the nation and businesses are deciding not to move to Arizona because of a lack of commitment to our schools.

Our community deserves better.

As your next state senator, nothing is more important to me than protecting our local public schools and restoring education funding. This is personal for me: I once sat in these same classrooms.

Classrooms that now have more students, less supplies, and outdated equipment.

We can restore education funding without raising taxes–we have the

Editor’s note

resources through our state’s rainy day fund and budget surpluses from recent years.

At the same time, we cannot simply throw money at the problem. We need to ensure that accountability measures are in place for these targeted investments.

These resources need to go to the classroom, not more administration.

For our K-12 schools, we must give our teachers a pay raise, reduce class sizes, and update textbooks and equipment. For our universities, this means bringing the skyrocketing cost of college tuition back to earth through additional financial aid.

Before we find a way to do this, we must find the will. We must elect legislators dedicated to making our education system our #1 budgetary priority. The problems with our education system are vast and complex, and we must have leaders who will put in the time and effort towards solving them.

One promise I can make to the voters of our district: I will not vote for any budget that does not address this problem.

I decided to run for the state senate for two reasons. The first was to restore education funding, and the second was to help bring some bipartisanship back to the state capitol. We need legislators who will work across the aisle and do what’s right for our community, not their political party or special interests.

I pledge to do just that, and I hope to have your support.

-Sean Bowie is the Democratic candidate for State Senate in Legislative District 18.

Information: seanbowieforaz.com.

With early voting for the General Election scheduled to begin Oct. 12, the AFN today begins a series of columns written by candidates for the state House and Senate in Legislative District 18, which includes Ahwatukee, as well as by candidates for the governing boards in both Kyrene and Tempe Union High school districts.

This week offers the first of two columns by LD 18 Senate candidates Frank Schmuck and Sean Bowie. They were asked: What is the biggest challenge facing LD 18 residents and what specific measures will you take to address it?

Page 34

Schmuck: Freedom to earn brings freedom to learn

BY FRANK SCHMUCK AFN GUEST WRITER

C

reating an environment that promotes education while inspiring all business to create more jobs is our biggest challenge.

Income, business growth, and the quality of education are what make our neighborhoods attractive. We need to continue to improve and nurture them.

People deserve to keep more of their hard-earned dollars, and by treating everyone fairly all Arizonans benefit.

Steadily drawing down our current state income tax rate by 1 percent per year and systematically replacing it with a consumption fee of .25 percent per year (exempting basic food, clothing and gasoline will protect those on a fixed income) will give all Arizonans the freedom to earn.

Arizona is unique because millions of visitors directly/indirectly use our services and resources without paying for them. Arizona currently has 2.5 million people who file state income taxes and 44 million tourists who benefit from our services without having to share the cost.

A consumption fee is excellent for growing an economy while creating a more stable revenue source for the state.

It also helps small businesses owners who often must combine business and personal income tax filings.

Arizona has made strides in updating tax codes making it attractive to corporations and start-ups, but not for more than 97 percent of employers in the state.

This is where the freedom to earn becomes the freedom to learn.

As a fan of freedom, school choice is vital and a bonus to our state. Arizonans can choose public schools (without boundaries), fantastic charter schools or even private schools, thanks to the Arizona Scholarship programs.

These programs will enjoy greater

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

success with a consumption fee versus income tax. By eventually capturing more revenue than Prop 301 currently produces, we will have more money to invest in our education.

To do that the next step is to create more transparency, like www. seethroughny.com, which clearly tracks money intended for those who need it the most: teachers and students.

I want to ensure that property taxes do not rise as they have in some states without income taxes, and also to transfer the School Tuition Organization and other current tax credit programs in Arizona to property taxes.

This is virtually the same concept as the dollar-for-dollar tax credits on income taxes, but using property taxes as the vehicle for credit and donation towards those deserving programs.

Arizona has an unemployment rate of 6 percent as of July 2016. Nearly 200,000 Arizonans—larger than Ahwatukee or an entire Legislative District—are looking for work.

California’s unemployment is just above ours at 6.3 percent and Texas—a state without an income tax—is only at 4.2 percent.

We can and will do better, but not solely by educating residents and having them leave our great state to live and work somewhere else because they can’t find adequate work here.

Our future is bright. North Carolina is now on a 10-year plan to eliminate their income tax. We can beat them, becoming the eighth state in the United States without an income tax creating a strong future economically and educationally.

There will be more resources, choices and liberty when people are free to keep more of what they earn. Arizona benefits with increased revenue and therefore more money is available to improve educational opportunities for everyone.

-Frank Schmuck is the Republican candidate for State Senate in Legislative District 18.

Information: teamschmuck.com

A newsroom conversation gave birth to a new tradition for the Tukee Bowl

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN EXECUTIVE EDITOR

P

eople who have never been in a newsroom often think editors and reporters get ideas and information magically; that they just roll in as we sit back and crank out stories like GM turns out cars and trucks.

That myth is easily dispelled when you watch a reporter stand out in the hot sun waiting to talk to someone, or an editor or reporter frantically dialing someone every five minutes in a desperate attempt to nail down a fact as the clock inexorably ticks down to deadline.

Then there are the ideas generated in a newsroom.

I’ve sat through many a brainstorming session as I listened to one hair-brained notion or another, then marveled hours later when a casual conversation among colleagues produced an idea that I reacted to with only one word: Wow. And so it was in the Ahwatukee Foothills News newsroom two weeks ago when the idea for the Ahwatukee Bowl Trophy was born.

It was a late afternoon when I said something about the upcoming bowl that was so inconsequential I can’t even remember it.

Suddenly, AFN Managing Editor Ralph Zubiate almost shouted, “We should get a trophy for the game.”

Managing Editor Lee Shappell, a longtime Ahwatukee resident and die-hard Mountain Pointe High fan, beamed in agreement.

I thought it was a good idea, but my pessimism got the better of me that day.

I looked at the calendar and told them I doubted we could get anything together so quickly, though I agreed it was

something to pursue next year.

I’m not in charge of the newsroom for a reason.

Fortunately, Ralph and Lee had the presence of mind to turn the idea over to Editor in Chief Robbie Peterson, who in turn took it to owner-publisher Steve Strickbine, who embraced it wholeheartedly.

Then, operations manager Chuck Morales jumped in to find a trophy shop that could meet our specifications in a matter of days.

We all beamed as Lee pulled the trophy out of a box last Friday afternoon.

Reporters, ad sales (Bill Hardiman/Special to AFN) people and page Mountain Pointe High varsity football players hold up the Ahwatukee Bowl Trophy at the end of their win last Friday over designers all came Desert Vista High. over to get a look at the trophy; some even pulled out their camera phones to get the All of us at the newsroom and in our as the game played out. first pictures of it. company are proud to have introduced But that community spirit was palpable We were all proud of this accomplishment, what the announcer Friday night called every time one side of the stadium or the but not half as proud as the Pride’s team a new tradition for the Ahwatukee Bowl. other rose from the bleachers to cheer a members were Friday night when Lee If you’re not a sports fan, it might be run, a catch or a touchdown. handed it to Coach Norris Vaughn as his difficult to fully appreciate the impact of It reflected the announcer’s pregame players looked on wide-eyed. a trophy, either when it’s awarded after a reminder, “We are not enemies here.”

That look in their eyes and the game or displayed in a case.

We at the Ahwatukee Foothills News broad smiles on their faces were just Yes, it’s just a symbol. But it’s a symbol congratulate both teams for a hard-fought as rewarding as the knowledge that the for a game that across two decades has game. And we’re also proud to have made AFN gave Mountain Pointe and Desert become a signature community event a lasting contribution to it, one that will Vista high schools something a little for Ahwatukee. be as much a testament to community more tangible than bragging rights to Maybe the players and a lot of the spirit as to the victors on the gridiron. point to after every Ahwatukee Bowl high school fans in the stands weren’t And that makes it one of the best ideas from now on. thinking about community Friday night I’ve ever seen come out of a newsroom.

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Kyrene schools chief reports on her first quarter on the job

BY JAN VESELY AFN GUEST WRITER

I

hope you are all enjoying the change in the weather, as we near the completion of the first quarter of the 2016-17 school year. I have a lot of information to share, so bear with me.

Let me start with a celebration of Kyrene’s Spring 2016 AzMERIT results.

The Arizona Department of Education released the comparative data on the statewide assessment.

What the data showed was that students in Kyrene continue to out-perform their peers in traditional district, charter and alternative schools. As a community, you can be very proud of how well our students performed on the statewide assessment.

We will now use the data from these results to begin to identify areas where we can focus our efforts to close the achievement gap among students who are struggling to meet and exceed the standards.

Which brings me to my own “first quarter” report.

Since I became superintendent on July 1, I have been working collaboratively with the Kyrene Governing Board on establishing my 90-

day action plan, outlining specific goals for my first year.

One of those goals is to address a challenge that faces many school districts—unstable and declining enrollment. I have set as an objective increasing enrollment in Kyrene to optimize available classroom space while maximizing learning outcomes.

I have engaged my leadership team in a process of identifying the possible root causes of declining enrollment.

Our analysis resulted in the following conclusions: We are experiencing inconsistent retention success across elementary and middle schools.

• Our middle school performance is typically lower than elementary school performance.

• There are inconsistencies in the rigor of middle school general academic programs.

• We do not have enough options for early childhood programs.

• Families are unaware of our comprehensive Pre-K through 8 programs.

With this in mind, I present an action plan to address these root causes. That plan includes: Middle school re-design. Research shows that high-performing and high-

achieving middle schools focus their efforts on four areas: academic excellence, developmental responsiveness, social equality and organizational structures and processes that support excellence.

In collaboration with our middle school principals, we seek to strengthen the academic core in each of our six middle schools. We want to establish caring, supportive environments that are engaging and responsive to the emotional and developmental needs of the young adolescent.

We will also be exploring the option of developing a K-8 International Baccalaureate (IB) program. An IB program aims to develop internationallyminded learners, working within a global context and explores significant content.

An IB program has a strong foreign language component which would provide our dual-language students with an option to continue their focus into middle school. There is also an IB program at Tempe High, allowing full matriculation through high school.

We will be re-evaluating our middle school program and identifying ways we can ensure that each of them provide our students with the supports they need to successfully advance to high school, college and beyond. As we move forward with this plan, we will be engaging

students, parents, and the community in the conversation.

Expanding Early Learning Center options. Our analysis shows that once families send their children to Kyrene, they generally remain within the Kyrene system. The challenge is how do we bring those families into Kyrene as early as possible.

Kyrene already has eight early learning centers, and we will begin exploring ways to expand those options to meet the needs of our families. We will conduct a feasibility study and market analysis to determine optimal locations for expansion, create a business plan with budget estimates for expansion, create timelines and develop a marketing/ communications strategy for parent enrollment.

These are ambitious goals, which will require significant work and due diligence on the part of my team in Kyrene.

It will also require the full participation and support of our students, parents, businesses and general community. I will continue to keep you all updated on our progress and hope you will share your thoughts and feedback with me.

You may always send me a message through “Let’s Talk!” and I will respond.

-Jan Vesely is superintendent of Kyrene School District.

LETTERS

Vote for our children and ‘on all our futures’

Vote for our children. As a former educator and new Arizona resident, I am appalled by the state of education here.

When looking at a list of all the state’s per pupil spending on education, Arizona is third from the bottom.

Passing Proposition 123 was a step in the right direction, but we have to do more. Big businesses (Intel, Go Daddy) are looking at Arizona, and taking their potential jobs elsewhere—because good education is lacking here.

They want educated workers. What does that say for our children’s futures, or our futures?

Vote for people who will restore the cuts to education, to bring it back to even 2008 levels.

Both Sean Bowie and Mitzi Epstein have been involved in education. They know our schools need more help. Our state has a budget surplus and a rainy day fund. Let’s spend some of that money on

Page 36

all our futures. Let’s spend it on education.

Our children depend on us. Let’s not fail them.

-Kathleen Adamson

Have you noticed your property tax bill increase?

Fellow Ahwatukee/Phoenix citizens: You may have noticed the 11 percent property tax increase in your property bill.

We have City Council members Laura Pastor, Michael Nowakowski, Daniel Valenzuela and Thelda Williams and Greg Stanton to thank who supported the rate hike while council members Karen Gallego, Sal DiCiccio, Jim Waring and Debra Stark opposed and proposed finding an alternate solution.

I’m also reminded of this quote: “Where is the politician who has not promised to fight to the death for lower taxes—and who has not proceeded to vote for the very spending projects that make tax cuts impossible?” (Barry Goldwater).

-Gerald Lamb

Norgaard: I was energized

by Mountain Pointe visit One of my favorite activities is to be a guest teacher in our community. Recently I enjoyed spending time at Mr. Lane Waddell’s Government class at Mountain Pointe High School. It was a joy to be in a classroom with so many energized and motivated students.

One of my first tasks was to administer a civics test, which I am pleased to say they easily mastered. A spirited discussion followed regarding the Arizona legislation and how a bill gets initiated, passed and signed into law.

A great way to learn any process is by actually doing it. Since any constituent can initiate a bill, their homework assignment was to come up with an idea for bill which they had to both present their position and testify.

Baby boomers – if you would like to share your knowledge and talents consider guest teaching. Reach out to your local schools and inquire about it how you can make a difference in the lives

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

our students. It is fun for the students to hear from our business leaders and you will find it extremely rewarding.

-State Rep. Jill Norgaard, LD 18

Tired of South Mountain Freeway critics

I moved to Ahwatukee in 1990.

My realtor told me at that time the approximate alignment of the proposed freeway.

If you bought a home in its path, you would have known at the time of purchase.

If you object to the project because of traffic—too bad.

I want the freeway. I want to be able to get to the west side without going through downtown. I grow a little weary of some people who appear to object to every form of progress.

-W. E. “Hank” Henry

ahwatukee.com

Ahwatukee Foothills News online

Planning panel head details freeway improvement efforts

BY CHAD BLOSTONE AFN GUEST WRITER

T

his note is to keep the public aware of the work local leaders and I are doing to protect our community the best we can from the negative impacts of the planned South Mountain 202 Freeway.

On Sept. 19, I met with local lawmakers and top Arizona Department of Transportation officials to discuss the construction of the freeway. The meeting took place at the State Capital and included input from Rep. Bob Robson, Rep. Jill Norgaard, Councilman Sal DiCiccio, LD 18 State Senate candidate Frank Schmuck, SRP and City of Phoenix representatives.

The primary purpose of the meeting was to follow up on the concerns raised by the community over the design and construction of the freeway.

Generally, the issues included: noise, traffic, intersection design, water access issues for three homeowners associations; Lakewood, Club West and The Foothills, the multi-use path,

the Chandler Boulevard extension and public safety.

Councilman DiCiccio and I urged city and ADOT officials to plan to keep Pecos Road as open as possible during construction, emphasizing the fact that, while safety is the most important factor, putting over 50,000 cars a day on to Chandler Boulevard will kill the local business community and quality of life for our neighborhoods.

Traffic diverted to Chandler Boulevard and Ray and Warner roads would create gridlock and be detrimental to our community.

Councilman DiCiccio also reiterated his concern about noise and the impact to surrounding neighbors and to South Mountain Park. Officials discussed noise-mitigating options to add to the design of the freeway.

Rep. Bob Robson brought up an important topic regarding the 32nd Street intersection. While there is currently no plan to put an interchange at that location, Rep. Robson, Councilman DiCiccio and I raised the public safety risks created by the construction of the 202.

The area surrounding the 32nd Street intersection, including the many subdivisions and schools, would not be able to adequately evacuate in case of an emergency with the current design.

ADOT and city officials will be working to design alternatives to provide access to those locations in case of emergencies.

As for the Chandler Boulevard extension, I have been advocating for a wider design for months now. In my research, I have not found any examples that suggest it is appropriate to have a narrow two lane road as the only source of access for such a large community.

As such, I continue my efforts to work with City Streets Department to consider a wider design for the Chandler Boulevard Extension.

Finally, we discussed the proposed multi-use path. ADOT is refurbishing the existing Pecos Road and turning it into a multi-use recreational path for the community, which is eventually supposed to link up to Pecos Park.

While this sounds like a great feature for the community, the reality is that Pecos Road is most commonly used recreationally by the high-speed bicyclist

community.

ADOT’s proposed multi-use path is designed in a way that would exclude high-speed bicyclists. I and the other representatives all agreed that this path needed to replace the current Pecos Road use and help accommodate the high-speed cyclist community.

Since the Pecos Road ride is one of the most famous in the city, all of our local Ahwatukee lawmakers support a cost efficient design that includes the cyclist community. However, at this point, ADOT’s design to flatten and straighten the road to accommodate high-speed users is costly.

That said, I am urging the cyclist community to reach out and contact ADOT to advocate for a suitable alternative. We cannot persuade them alone. This point was the most difficult one to persuade ADOT of during our meeting.

As this project progresses, we will work with our local leaders, ADOT, and City Officials to protect our interests as much as possible.

Chad Blostone is chairman of the AhwatukeeFoothills Village Planning Committee.

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Business

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Ahwatukee Carpet celebrates 25 years in an evolving business

BY SHELLEY GILLESPIE AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

T

raci Tartaglio always loved numbers, but she didn’t realize how much that love would help her passion for carpets and home design until Ahwatukee Carpet’s showroom opened in 1991.

It not only helps her to size-up a job but also has helped her price her way to survival.

This month, she’s celebrating the store’s 25th anniversary with her staff, Marietta Palmer, an original staff member with extensive flooring knowledge, and Andrea Thornton, a newer staffer with an art background.

When other carpet stores have come and gone, Ahwatukee Carpet has survived and thrived.

“Even during the recession, when people tended to clean their carpets, stretching the life of their carpet, we still managed to stay in business,” Tartaglio said.

The secret?

“Ahwatukee Carpet is a boutique showroom with big-box pricing,” Tartaglio replied.

“If our pricing wasn’t competitive, we wouldn’t still be in business,” she said.

“We recognize that flooring can be the third-largest purchase people make, after a home and car. We respect that.”

Trends and styles in home design have changed greatly over the years.

When she opened in 1991 at 48th and Warner in a strip mall, vinyl in bathrooms was the trend and mauve was the decorating color of choice. Berber, mostly in beige, carpeted entire homes.

But the trend moved in a vastly different direction with the turn of the century, and carpet began coming in a wide variety of styles, colors and materials.

Tartaglio said her location at 15215 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee, where she moved in 2003, allows Ahwatukee Carpets to showcase those carpets.

And it allowed her to expand her offerings beyond carpet, hardwood, tile and laminate flooring.

“We also provide a number of other related home-improvement products, including countertops, backsplashes, fireplaces and even baseboards,” she said.

“We have even expanded our services to Page 38

(Shelley Gillespie/Special to AFN)

ABOVE: Contractor James Bell often works closely with Traci Tartaglio on home remodeling and other projects.

LEFT: Traci Tartaglio, owner of Ahwatukee Carpet, said flooring has evolved in an array of styles and materials.

provide shower and bathtub remodeling services.”

Even exotic floor coverings like sea grass are available.

“We’ve really evolved,” Tartaglio said. “From everything Southwest to laminates, hardwood floors, tiles emulating wood, and recycled fiber carpet, decorating a home has changed.

And in some cases, trends have changed back again.

“Granite is still the ‘go-to’ countertop and continues to be both affordable and popular. Marble and silestone are newly popular today.”

Berber is back, but the colors now often include grey in varied designs.

Shag, which was popular in the mid2000s, has mutated to “frieze.” It's similar to shag, but comes in multicolors and has thinner fibers.

With so much more than just flooring to offer, Tartaglio finds that her clients are usually home remodelers, commercial project contractors, and custom builders.

The store partners with contractors to

install products. Tartaglio oversees and guarantees her teams' work.

Affiliated teams that install hardwood and carpet have partnered with Ahwatukee Carpets for 15 years. Tile installers claim 10 years with them.

Installers and Tartaglio’s company are licensed, bonded, and insured.

“We believe in serving rather than servicing,” she said.

Tartaglio emphasizes work to please every client. Even when the manufacturer may have sent the wrong color or some other rare glitch happens, she makes good on her word.

“With Traci, I don’t have to be onsite; she inspects what she expects,” said contractor James Bell, who works with Tartaglio.

For over 10 years, Bell has worked with Tartaglio to develop commercial projects in Ahwatukee such as Zesty Zzeek’s Pizza.

“She delivers right on time,” Bell said, recalling how she worked with him to find the right finishes for shower tile that had to fit around pipes.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

When she’s not working, she believes strongly in community.

As a single parent during her daughter’s early childhood, Tartaglio brought her daughter to community meetings and their showroom so she could be involved.

Tartaglio recently became a Big Sister to a 6-year-old girl and intends to stay involved with her until she grows up. She also volunteers for the Girls Rule Foundation, an empowerment project for girls.

“I believe in giving back to the Community,” Tartaglio said.

No matter what clients request, Tartagliosaid she and her team work hard to find the perfect answer to their requirement—even if it’s an unusual order, such as furnishing a stairway in leopard-patterned carpeting or sea grass flooring.

“We turn houses into homes, one family at a time,” Tartaglio said.

Ahwatukee Carpets Where: 15215 S. 48th St., Suite 185, Ahwatukee.

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Your wallet shouldn’t be your only consideration in choosing health insurance

BY DR. MARY JO KUTLER AFN GUEST WRITER

A

s open enrollment for 2017 draws near, many of us are weighing our health care options for the year ahead. It’s not a simple process for anyone.

Those with employer-provided benefits are probably reviewing numerous health packages and noticing an increase in their share of the bill.

Others will search the Healthcare Exchange for the right plan for their families, but the exchange presents its own batch of issues. In Arizona, almost every major insurer has exited the Affordable Care Act marketplace in the last year, leaving very few options for local residents.

To make matters worse, most insurance companies are posting double-digit rate increases. It’s all taking a toll on families’ budgets, and many of us are experiencing sticker shock at high co-pays, deductibles, coinsurance and premiums.

If you’re like most people, you may be tempted to choose your insurance with your pocketbook, but it’s important to weigh cost alongside quality of care, access to trusted physicians, and even proximity – especially if you or a member of your family has complex or chronic conditions.

If that’s the case, choosing medical coverage is one of the most important decisions you will make all year.

Doing your homework is vital. When choosing your health plan for 2017, follow these steps to ensure you pick the best plan for your family.

Make sure your provider is in-network.

We often rely on trusted primary care physicians and, in many cases, dedicated specialists. Don’t take for granted that your doctors will be in-network, as insurance plans change every year. Make sure your providers are part of the plan you’re considering.

Be wary of narrow networks. Insurers are now selling products that offer lower premiums in exchange for a limited provider network.

Narrow networks are a fine solution for many people, but they can be disastrous for families with complex conditions whose specialists are not part of the coverage plan. In fact, despite a low sticker price, picking a narrow network may result in higher costs if a family member needs to see a specialist or receive treatment outside the network.

Do the math. Low premiums may be

tempting, but be sure to consider your share of the costs for doctor visits and medications, too.

For some families, particularly those requiring specialist care or ongoing medical treatment, it may be more costeffective to purchase a plan with a higher monthly premium that covers a greater share of health care costs through a lower deductible, co-insurance or co-payment.

If you have questions, ask. Contact your broker, benefits manager or plan provider with questions about your plan, or call Phoenix Children’s Family Financial Services at 602-933-2000. This free program helps families understand their coverage options and choose a plan that meets their needs.

-Dr. Mary Jo Kutler is a pediatrician for Ahwatukee Pediatrics, which is part of Phoenix Children’s Care Network, Arizona’s only pediatric network half of all independent pediatricians and 80 percent of pediatric subspecialists in greater Phoenix.

Observe Financial Planning Month by examining your goals

BY JOSEPH ORTIZ AFN GUEST WRITER

O

ctober is Financial Planning Month.

And now that you know that, why not determine if you’re on the right path toward meeting your financial goals?

Consider taking these steps: Identify your goals. To know if you’re making progress toward your goals, you first have to identify them. Of course, you’ll have a variety of goals in life, such as helping pay for your children’s college educations.

More than likely, though, your most important long-term financial goal is to build enough resources to enjoy the retirement lifestyle you’ve envisioned. But we all have different ideas for how we

want to spend our retirement years. Some of us may want to stay close to home, volunteering and pursuing our hobbies, while others want to visit the vineyards of Bordeaux or explore the pyramids of Egypt.

So, name your goals and, as much as possible, put a price tag on them. Once you know about how much your retirement is going to cost, you can create an investment strategy that may ultimately provide you with the income you will need.

Don’t underestimate your cost of living.

Even after you’ve identified some of your retirement goals, and estimated their costs, you still haven’t developed a complete picture of your future cost of living.

You also need to take into account other potential major expenses, such as health care. Once you’re 65, you’ll get Medicare, but that won’t cover all your medical costs – and it might cover only a tiny portion of those expenses connected with long-term

care, such as a nursing home stay or services provided by a home health aide.

A financial professional can help you explore specific methods of dealing with these types of long-term care costs.

Locate gaps. After you’ve had your investment strategy in place for a while, you may see that some “gaps” exist. Is your portfolio not growing as fast as it should to help you reach your goals? If not, you may need to review your asset allocation to make sure it is aligned with your risk tolerance and portfolio objective.

Do you find that you own too many of the same types of investments? This overconcentration could be harmful to you if a downturn affects one particular asset class, and you own too much of that asset.

To help prevent this from happening, be sure to diversify your dollars across a range of investment vehicles. Keep in mind, though, that diversification can’t guarantee

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Protect yourself and family. Saving for your ideal retirement is certainly a worthy goal, but you have other ones, such as providing for your family in case you aren’t around, or if you become ill or incapacitated and can’t work for a while.

That’s why you will need adequate life insurance, and possibly disability insurance, too. Your employer may offer you both these types of coverage as an employee benefit, but it might not be enough. So, you may want to explore private coverage as well.

Financial Planning Month will come and go. But by following the above suggestions, you can create some strategies that will bring you a lifetime of benefits.

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Ahwatukee senior finds rewards in guiding others through Medicare

See

MEDICARE on page 41

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A

fter a 25-year teaching career that spanned four states, including 18 in Arizona, and an additional 13 years as an insurance agent, Carole Phelan could be expected to be enjoying a restful retirement.

But the 72-year-old Ahwatukee resident is anything but retiring, working the last eight years as a Medicare consultant.

Working the last eight years near the front of the Fry’s supermarket at Chandler Boulevard and 40th Street, Ahwatukee, Phelan finds that her smile seems to attract people trying to navigate the confusing array of options that Medicare offers.

“People see me sitting there and I say hello and they start talking to me,” Phelan said. “They say ‘There’s something about your smile.’ They’re usually confused and I listen to them. Some have health issues and just need someone to talk to about them.

“I like to talk to people. I like to have conversations.”

Phelan will be smiling and listening a lot the next two months, as Medicare’s annual enrollment period begins Oct. 15 and continues to Dec. 7. That’s when Medicare recipients have a chance to review their coverage, with the option of changing it for the new calendar year.

She tries to help people cut through the bureaucratese to understand the bureaucracy of Medicare.

“When people turn age 65, one of the most important decisions they have to make is what Medicare plan they want to use,” she said. “There are significance differences between them. There are booklets that go from the floor to the knees. Then they call their friends and their family for advice, much of which is

neither informed nor informing. They’re utterly confused.”

So she tries to ease their confusion, and said most of the time the people who seek her advice “say, ‘Wow, this is the first time I understand all this.’”

She finds her work somewhat easier than when she taught reading, English as a second language, kindergarten and at the community college level. Her last assignment was at St. John Bosco in Ahwatukee.

“It’s easier teaching seniors,” she said.

A representative of UnitedHealthcare, Phelan said she doesn’t try to sell anything.

“I don’t give a sales pitch,” she said. “I start out listening and teaching.”

Sometimes it’s not even Medicare that people talk to her about.

“Some will say ‘I just don’t like the doctor I have,’ so I pull out the reference materials and find a doctor in the area they might like,” Phelan said. “I try to find out what their life is like and what they don’t know.”

If she can’t help them, she refers them to her husband of 20 years, John, an independent insurance broker who represents a number of companies and her partner in Phelan Insurance Agency.

“We try to keep this a mom-and-pop operation,” she said.

But it’s the talking and listening that puts her to work—and she likes that.

“Some days I talk to as many as 25 people,” she said. “A lot of people hate using the telephone. If you call an insurance company, you’re going to get a sales person. They’re driven more from sales. I’m more informative.”

Sometimes she encounters heartbreaking hard-luck stories.

“We have a lot of elderly men and

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Time to review Medicare coverage, official advises

BY CATE KORTZEBORN AFN GUEST WRITER

S

ometime in late October, I’ll host the 12th annual Friends of Elaine Kortzeborn Medicare Open Enrollment Party.

Every year since 2005, I’ve helped a dozen or so my mom’s buddies review their Medicare Part D prescription drug insurance and make sure it still works for them.

At first, I ran into some resistance.

Mom’s friends didn’t want to bother. They had coverage and didn’t see why they needed to keep checking their drug plans.

After a couple of years, though, that attitude disappeared.

We kept finding that, every year, their health needs changed and so did the list of drugs covered by their plans.

Shopping among the numerous plans and choosing the right one could mean saving hundreds of dollars a year.

Now, everyone’s on board to make sure they have coverage that’s right for them.

All this is just my way of reminding you that Medicare’s annual open enrollment season begins Oct. 15 and runs through Dec. 7. This is the time every year when you can sign up for a new Medicare drug or health plan, or switch the one you have now. Any new coverage you select will take effect Jan. 1.

In addition to Part D drug plans, open enrollment applies to Medicare Advantage health plans, which are essentially managed care plans run by private insurers approved by Medicare.

If you have Original (traditional) Medicare and you’re satisfied with it, you don’t need to do anything during open enrollment.

If you have a Medicare Advantage health plan or Part D drug plan, keep in mind that these plans can make changes each year, including what they cover, how much they charge for monthly premiums and deductibles, and which

MEDICARE

from page 40

women,” she said. “The single ones become more vulnerable as they grow older. Some have no one to rely upon.

They have no one to give them an honest answer and help them.

“I hear a lot heartfelt stories and my

doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies are in their networks.

Always review the materials your health or drug plan sends you, like the “Evidence of Coverage” and “Annual Notice of Change.” Make sure your plan still meets what you anticipate will be your health needs for next year. If you’re satisfied with your current plan, and your insurer is still offering it in 2017, you don’t need to make any changes.

Here are resources to help you compare your current coverage with new plan offerings for 2017. You can: Visit medicare.gov to review drug and health plans, including costs, available in your area and enroll in a new plan if you decide to. Medicare rates the plans on a scale of one to five stars. Open enrollment information also is available in Spanish.

Call 1-800-633-4227 for around-theclock assistance to find out more about your coverage options. TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048. Counseling is available in a variety of languages.

Review the Medicare & You handbook.

This handbook is mailed to the homes of people with Medicare each fall and it’s also online at medicare.gov/pubs/ pdf/10050.pdf Get free, unbiased, one-on-one counseling from your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program.

People with Medicare who have limited income and resources may qualify for Extra Help to pay for their Part D drug plans. There’s no cost or obligation to apply for Extra Help, and it can save you thousands of dollars each year.

Medicare beneficiaries, family members, or caregivers can apply at socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to find out more. TTY users should call 1-800-325-0778.

-Cate Kortzeborn is Medicare’s acting regional administrator for Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and the Pacific Territories.

heart breaks for them,” she continued. “I can’t do more than help them with their insurance company.”

Sometimes she’ll try to connect people with special needs with the Y Outreach Program for Ahwatukee Seniors.

Phelan said she’s glad she can help people with a program as helpful as Medicare, adding, “Medicare is a very sturdy program.”

Medicare in Arizona Here are some facts about Medicare in Arizona, according to federal officials:  100 percent of people with Medicare have access to a Medicare Advantage plan.  71 Medicare Advantage plans are available.  22 Medicare prescription drug plans are available.  83 percent of people with Part D have access to a plan with a lower premium than what they paid in 2016.  27 percent of people with Medicare Part D get Extra Help (also called the low-income subsidy, or LIS).  $17 is the lowest monthly premium for a prescription drug plan.  344,316 people in Arizona with Original Medicare took advantage of at least one preventive service without cost-sharing through July 201, and. 81,238 Arizonans with Original Medicare took advantage of the annual wellness visit.  Since the passage of the Affordable Care Act, people with Medicare in Arizona have saved $411,886,595 on prescription drugs through July and 42,967 seniors and people with disabilities received discounts of $41,569,364.

Low Back Pain Research Study

All hospices are not the same.

Hospice of the Valley offers more than care at the end of life.

Comfort care for chronic illnesses.

Dementia care. Honoring military veterans. Pet therapy.

Grief support.

Choose Hospice of the Valley, your not-for-profit hospice since 1977.

602.530.6900 • hov.org

This study is to see if the Erchonia® MLS, a non-invasive, investigational device that uses low-level laser light, which will be compared with placebo, can help to relieve minor low back pain that has been ongoing for at least 3 months.

The study involves nine visits to a test site and recording some information at home.

Compensation up to $250 For qualified participants.

Please contact Dr. Trevor Berry, DC at South Mountain Chiropractic Center at 480-756-2600 for details.

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 41

Faith

Churches, events and spirituality

SPIRITUAL SIDE

Jesus demands man comes down from his high horse of judgment

BY REV. SUSAN WILMOT AFN GUEST WRITER

H

ave you ever felt small? In one sense, we’ve all felt small the moment after saying or doing something we regret.

Then there’s literally feeling small.

This experience was definitely different: a strange dislocation, a feeling of being transported out of time and space. I was suddenly and quite unexpectedly a Lilliputian to a whole slew of beautiful Gulliver-sized women who seemed to be everywhere I went that day.

It was an odd feeling, probably the first time in my life when I actually felt small in stature, or to use the politically correct term, vertically challenged.

If you’re thinking, “so what?” please give me a moment of grace, because isn’t this a gift of divine joy that our often plodding and predictable daily lives can still surprise and delight us? Quotidian moments and mysteries add up to the sum of our lives.

How we live in the integrity of our faith is defined by each moment.

This was a surprising day, because I’ve always been taller than average. It’s a moment worth pondering in light of how God continues to transform our

hearts and minds in everyday ways and everyday encounters.

Speaking of being vertically challenged, the story of Zacchaeus found in Luke 19:1-10 comes to mind. It’s told, at least initially, in a lighthearted, even comic way, but we quickly realize that Zacchaeus presents a giant-sized problem to his community. It’s also a great lesson about our own attitudes towards our fellow travelers in life.

How easy it is to feel comfortable and complacent about our personal relationship with God in Christ Jesus, only to continue living with a judgmental, fearful or hateful attitude towards others.

Feeling securely self-righteous, we’d expect Jesus to shun the dishonorable chief tax collector, who collaborates with the oppressive Roman rulers, and has likely become rich at the expense of the poor. So there’s nothing PC about Jesus calling Zacchaeus out of his tree, and telling him that he has a house guest.

In fact, Jesus is lending tacit approval to the town’s bad boy. Jesus even names him as a son of Abraham, which is pretty much guaranteed to get a rise from the rest of the crowd. Does Jesus really approve of Zacchaeus’ ruthless pursuit of wealth and the injustices he’s wrought?

No. Does Jesus really approve of the crowd’s graceless hostility and loveless attitude towards Zacchaeus? Ouch!

After his divine encounter with the living Lord, Zacchaeus undergoes a radical change of heart and mind.

Jesus makes the point at the end of the passage, boldly stating that he came to seek out and save the lost. Zacchaeus just happens to be a useful foil for pointing out that the rest of the crowd, including you and me, have no reason to be smug about our lives.

We too are lost, but perhaps not as honest and upfront about it as Zacchaeus. Who’s feeling small now?

The more we practice self-reflection as a spiritual discipline, the more likely we are to see ourselves and our lives clearly, as God already does.

It may not be a pretty picture. Probably more like one that a 2-year-old got hold of: smeared by dirty fingerprints of ingratitude, judgmentalism or competitive behavior, and marred by blobs of fear and exclusivism, intolerance and greed.

Yet, as followers of Jesus, how we live and put our faith into action reveals how we’re being transformed by God’s grace. To the disapproving crowd, who thought they were better than short-

statured Zacchaeus, it’s clearly surprising to see how his encounter with Jesus has transformed him into a towering model of repentance and faith, hospitality, and generosity.

He’s not just changing his life around going forward, he’s also making reparations towards those he’s dealt with in the past. It’s what we call restorative justice.

The story prompts us to examine our own hearts and minds for those times when we’re unjust, unfair, and downright ungracious in our attitudes towards our neighbors. To experience someone else’s viewpoint, even for a little while, helps us to grow in compassion. It helps us to joyfully seek the face of Christ in all God’s children, setting aside culturally prescribed labels and stereotypes.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we’re invited to come down from our own high place, and spend time with Jesus.

The encounter will open our hearts and minds with joy and delight to our fellow travelers. Faith in short order is God’s love, grace, and compassion at work everywhere and every day.

-The Rev. Susan E. Wilmot, vicar at St. James the Apostle Episcopal Church & Preschool, 975 E. Warner Road, Tempe, can be reached at rector@stjamestempe.org or 480-345-2686.

FAITH CALENDAR

TUESDAY Oct. 11

NEUROLOGIST TO DISCUSS DEMENTIA

Dr. Stuart Hetrick of Foothills Neurology will discuss normal aging versus dementia and will answer questions during a special edition of Senior Focus, which continues through Nov. 15.

DETAILS>>6:30-8 p.m., Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 East Pecos Road, Ahwatukee. 480-7596200 or mountainpark.org.

FRIDAY OCT. 14

FOOD BANK’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Chandler Christian Community Center, also known as the Chandler Food Bank, will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a gala, a video and entertainment by a Beatles tribute band, The Backbeats.

DETAILS>> 6-9 p.m., Noah’s Event Venue, 2100 E. Yeager Dr., Chandler. Cost: $100 (all proceeds benefit the mission of CCCC). Tickets: ccccgala.eventbrite. com.

FRIDAY OCT. 21 RUMMAGE SALE

Risen Savior Lutheran Church is conducting a

Page 42

rummage sale featuring furniture, household goods and clothing.

DETAILS>> 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 21-22, 23914 S. Alma School Road, Chandler. Information: Jane Zehnder at 480-802-5334.

SATURDAY OCT. 22

CHRISTIAN GROUP HAS CAR SHOW

The Covenant Hot Rod Association Southeast Valley, whose motto is “Fully Restored Serving the Lord,” will hold its inaugural Desert Harvest Car Show to help veterans at Valor Christian Center in Gilbert.

Early registration fee is $25. Sponsors are being sought and owners of the following kinds of vehicles can enter $25: street rods, sports and custom cars, rat rods, muscle cars, classics and competition cars and trucks.

DETAILS>>$25 registration fee for vehicle owners; 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 3015 E. Warner Road. Information: Don Webb at 480-205-7925 or chra2001@msn.com.

MONDAY OCT. 24

CHURCH STARTING BOOK CLUB

“Turning Pages” is the name of a new monthly Christian book discussion at Desert Foothills

United Methodist Church. The first book will be “The Daughter’s Walk” by Jane Kirkpatrick. Set in the 1890s, it invites readers to consider their own journeys and family separations to help determine what exile and forgiveness are truly about. It is available on Amazon. Participants can bring recommendations for future books.

DETAILS>> 7 p.m., 2156 E. Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee.

Information: 480-460-1025 or office@desertfoothills. org.

their car trunks and fill them with treats. Members of the community are invited to bring their children to tour the “trunk of treats” for candy. Appropriate costumes are encouraged. A bounce house will be offered as well.

DETAILS>> 5:30-7 p.m., Pilgrim Lutheran Church and School, 3257 E. University Drive, Mesa. Information: 480-830-1724 or email office@pilgrimmesa.com.

FRIDAY OCT. 28

AWAKEN THE HEALER WITHIN

SUNDAY OCT. 30

“Energy Medicine and Finding Your Passionate Purpose: An Evening with Dr. Sue Morter on the Power of Doing YOUR Thing.” Discover the energetics of manifesting your passionate purpose.

DETAILS>> 7-9 p.m., 2700 E. Southern Ave, Mesa.

Cost: $20 per person in advance, $25 at door.

Information: unityofmesa.org.

Dr. Sue Morter presents “Awaken the Healer Within: Merging Mind, Body and Breath for Embodiment of Spirit.” Explore the relationship of the conscious and subconscious mind, energy centers in the body and their influence on creative capacity and physical healing.

DETAILS>> 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., 2700 E. Southern Ave, Mesa. Cost: $49 in advance, $54 at door. Information: unityofmesa.org.

SATURDAY OCT. 29

SUNDAYS

FINDING YOUR PURPOSE

TRUNK OF TREAT SLATED

Pilgrim Lutheran Church & School will host its annual Trunk of Treat event. Church members will decorate

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

VALOR CHRISTIAN OUTLINES MISSION See

CALENDAR on page 43

CALENDAR

chabadcenter.com, or chabadcenter.com.

from page 42

RABBINIC LIT COURSE OFFERED

Valor Christian Center in Gilbert offers “great praise and worship and great messages for today’s living,” according to Pastor Thor Strandholt, associate pastor. “Our mission is evangelize, healing and discipleship through the word of God.” DETAILS>> 10 a.m. Sundays and 7 p.m. Thursdays.

3015 E. Warner Road. Information: valorcc.com.

HORIZON SEEKS YOUNG PEOPLE

High school and middle school students meet to worship and do life together.

DETAILS>> 5 p.m. at Horizon Presbyterian Church, 1401 E. Liberty Lane. 480-460-1480 or email joel@ horizonchurch.com.

BEREAVED CAN SHARE GRIEF

A support group designed to assist people through the grieving process. One-time book fee $15.

DETAILS>> 2-4 p.m. at Arizona Community Church, 9325 S. Rural Road, Room G3, Tempe. 480-491-2210.

UNITY OFFERS INSPIRATION

Inspirational messages and music are offered, along with classes and special events.

DETAILS>> 10 a.m. at Unity of Tempe, 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe. 480-792-1800 or unityoftempe.com.

KIDS CAN LEARN JEWISH LIFE

Children can learn and experience Jewish life.

Chabad Hebrew School focuses on Jewish heritage, culture and holidays.

DETAILS>> 9:30 a.m. to noon, for children ages 5-13 at Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler. 480-855-4333, info@

Ongoing morning study of two classics of rabbinic literature by 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.” At 11:15 a.m., TBS member Isaac Levy teaches “Maimonides’ Mishneh Torah: How Jews Ought to Behave.”

Readings in both Hebrew and English.

DETAILS>> Community Room of the administration building at Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley, 3400 N. Dobson Road, Chandler. 480-897-3636.

UNITY OFFERS A PATH

Unity of Mesa says its Sunday service offers “a positive path for spiritual living” through “transformational lessons, empowering music and various spiritual practices with an open-minded and welcoming community.”

DETAILS>> 9 a.m. Spiritual discussion group and meditation practices group. 10:15 a.m. service. 2700 E. Southern Ave., Mesa. Child care available at 9 a.m. Nursery for infants through kindergarten at 10:15 a.m. 480-892-2700, unityofmesa.org, joanne@ unityofmesa.org.

DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m., Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 739 W. Erie St., Chandler. 480-963-4127.

STRUGGLING FIND SUPPORT

Support group for those struggling with how to deal with a loss in life.

DETAILS>> 7 p.m., 1825 S. Alma School Road, Room C201, Chandler. Pastor Larry Daily, 480-963-3997, ext.

141, larrydaily@chandlercc.org or chandlercc.org.

TUESDAYS

DIVORCED CAN FIND COMFORT

People suffering through a divorce or separation can find understanding and caring support to face these challenges.

DETAILS>> 6:30-8 p.m., Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E Pecos Road, Room 117, Ahwatukee, 480-759-6200 or mountainpark.org.

FINDING HEALING FOR PAIN

HOPE, an acronym for “Help Overcome Painful Experiences,” offers support for men and women who seek God’s grace and healing.

DETAILS>> 6:30 to 8 p.m. Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road. mountainpark.org.

SENIORS ENJOY ‘TERRIFIC TUESDAYS’

The program is free and includes bagels and coffee and a different speaker or theme each week.

Registration not needed.

DETAILS>> 10:30 a.m. to noon, Barness Family East Valley Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. evjcc.org or 480-897-0588.

Submit your releases to rzubiate@timespublications.com

MONDAYS

JOIN CHRIST-CENTERED YOGA

This Flow 1-2 class (intermediate) is free and open to the community.

DETAILS>> 6-7 p.m., Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road. Greg Battle at 480-7596200 or gbattle@moutainpark.org.

CLASS TARGETS THE GRIEVING

Classes for those grieving over death or divorce.

Serving AhwAtukee, MountAin PArk rAnch, LAkewood, the FoothiLLS And Surrounding AreAS

A welcoming community proclaiming the love of God and fostering a personal relationship with Jesus Christ through Scripture, Sacraments and Service.

Daily Mass | Mon-Sat • 8:15am Tuesday Mass | 6:00pm Saturday Mass | 4:00pm Sunday Mass

3550 E. Knox Rd., Phoenix AZ 85044

480.893.8770

www.corpuschristiphx.org

7:00, 8:30, 10:30am, 5:00pm

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 43

Sports Rec

ahwatukee.com

Ahwatukee Foothills News online

GameNight: Late Desert Vista turnover, Mountain Pointe TD seal Tukee Bowl for Pride

BY JASON P. SKODA AFN PREP SPORTS DIRECTOR

BOX SCORE

I

t probably won’t go down in the annals of Ahwatukee Bowl history as a classic or even among the more memorable games in the first 20 years of the series.

Mountain Pointe High’s 27-13 win at Karl Kiefer Stadium did, however, provide the unexpected—though many thought the nation’s 10th-ranked team would have had an easier game against Desert Vista High than what transpired as the Pride evened the series at 10-10.

The game was undecided until early in the fourth quarter, when a turnover by the Thunder on their side of the field led to Mountain Pointe’s final score, making it a two-possession game with less than 11 minutes left.

“They were a real good team, and we probably underestimated them a little bit,” Pride senior running back/ cornerback Antwaun Woodberry said.

“They played us tough.”

It looked to be going the way of a blowout when it was 14-0 with three minutes left in the first quarter and the Pride (6-0) blocked a punt.

But it was a one-score game in the fourth quarter.

Then Thunder newcomer Alijah Gammage, playing his first game after transferring from Valley Christian High, threw his first pass after a bobbled shotgun snap; it was intercepted by Pride newcomer Donte Lindsey, who was in his first game after coming over from Cesar Chavez High.

The pass was short, and Lindsey came up with the pick, an open Desert Vista (2-4) receiver underneath.

“He’s a playmaker and we have a package for him,” Thunder head coach Dan Hinds said. “That was just a call we made at the time.”

Page 44

Mountain Pointe 27, Desert Vista 13

DV 0 MP 14

6 6

7 0-27 0 7-13

SCORING

(BIll Hardiman/Special to AFN)

Pride linebacker Xaiver Cota blocks Thunder punter Riley Erickson and recovers during the first half of the 20th annual Ahwatukee Bowl.

Three plays later, Pride running back Rashie Hodge scored on a 29-yard run to give Mountain Pointe a 27-13 lead with 10:13 remaining.

“They played us tough,” Pride coach Norris Vaughan said. “We didn’t take advantage of some of our opportunities, had too many penalties, but we got that turnover in the fourth quarter and got a big score there.”

Mountain Pointe won against its neighborhood rival despite losing top running back Gary Bragg to a knee injury the previous week. It was also without starting cornerback Delano Salgado and inside linebacker Michael Washington.

“We have some depth and that showed tonight,” said Pride senior quarterback Noah Grover, who was 8 of 9 for 124 yards. That included a 63-yard touchdown to Isaiah Pola-Mao with 1:49 left before the half for a 20-6 lead.

“We were able to overcome some things and still get the win,” Grover added. “Most of our games have been pretty easy but we had to play this one

until the end.”

The Thunder had its chances but never led. It pulled within 20-13 with 5:51 left in the third quarter when Lelon Dillard scored on a direct snap 2-yard run.

“They are a really good team,” Desert Vista senior two-way lineman Myles Wilson said. “We played the No. 10 team in the nation and we had a chance to tie it in the fourth quarter. We don’t have to go back to the drawing board.

We just have to play a little bit better and finish the season strong.”

The Pride walked off the field with its fifth straight Ahwatukee Bowl win.

“We lost (at the freshmen level) and then at JV level before winning last year on varsity,” Grover said. “We evened it up for our class and it means everything to know that we won the last two in our career as seniors.”

– Contact Jason Skoda at 480-898-7915 or jskoda@ahwatukee.com. Follow him on Twitter @ JasonPSkoda.

– Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

First MP – Woodberry 70 run (Abercrombie kick), 10:50 MP – Hodge 12 run (Abercrombie kick), 3:38 Second DV – Erickson 27 FG, 7:53 DV – Erickson 27 FG, 5:10 MP – Pola-Mao 63 pass from Grover (kick failed), 1:49 Third DV – Dillard 2 run (Erickson kick), 5:51 Fourth MP – Hodge 29 run (Abercrombie kick), 10:41 TEAM STATISTICS

DV MP First downs 14 15 Rush-yards 28-113 28-271 Comp-Att-Int 20-33-1 8-9-0 Pass yards 246 124 Total yards 359 395 Fumble/Lost 2/0 1/0 Penalties 4-30 8-75 INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

Rushing DV –Dillard 12-27, Thomas 5-25, K. White 6-14, Gammage 1-6, Porter 3-34, Werbelow 1-7. MP – Stephens 11-83, Hodge 8-94, Woodberry 5-84, Brooks 4-10.

Passing DV – Thomas 20-32-0-246, Gammage 0-0-1-0. MP – Grover 8-9-0-124.

Receiving DV – J. White 4-44, K. White 6-64, Dillard 4-50, Stagg 3-78, Porter 1-(-)4, Werbelow 1-6, Garcia 1-6.

Missed FG MP-Abercrombie (39)

Tukee Bowl photo page Clockwise from top: Mountain Pointe High running back Anthony Stephens is hit out of bounds as he heads toward the end zone; Desert Vista receiver Keishaud White makes a catch for a first down; Defensive back Antwaun Woodberry of Mountain Pointe runs the ball; Desert Vista quarterback Nick Thomas looks to unload the ball and avoid a defensive assault from the Pride; Thunder’s Keishaud White is upended as his foot catches on the shoulder of defensive back Isaiah PolaMao of Mountain Pointe; Pride quarterback Noah Grover spots an open receiver and prepares to loft a pass. Center: Desert Vista running back Lelon Dillard is tripped up

by Mountain Pointe linebacker Rashie Hodge and defensive lineman Khalif Ravenell. Photos

by Bill Hardiman.

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 45

MP offensive line controls trenches in win over Thunder

BY CHRISTOPHER CADEAU AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

L

ittle brothers are supposed to be held off at a distance with a hand on their forehead, just close enough to strike but not close enough to do any damage.

That is almost exactly how the 27- 13 victory for Mountain Pointe played out as it sent Desert Vista back home without a victory in the 20th Annual Ahwatukee Bowl for the fifth straight year.

It wasn’t pretty for the Pride, but it was gritty. The top-ranked team in the state consistently won the battles in the trenches Friday night, and it was the glaring reason Mountain Pointe (6-0) avoided an upset.

“They came out intense, but we matched their intensity. We were getting to the second level and getting backers moved which allowed us to instead of getting 5-yard gains, get 30 (yard

(Bill Hardiman/Special to AFN)

Desert Vista defensive end James Stagg is walloped by Mountain Pointe defensive back Isaiah Pola-Mao during the second half of the Ahwatukee Bowl.

(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer)

A wheelchair didn’t stop Desert Vista High’s Garrett Chavez from joining teammates, from left, Nick Thomas, Lelon Dillard and Myles Wilson at the pre-game coin toss before the start of the Ahwatukee Bowl.

gains),” Mountain Pointe senior center Justice Hudson said.

The Mountain Pointe’s O-line got to Desert Vista’s second level early and often. That led to senior running back Antwaun Woodberry being sprung for

PRACTICING SINCE 1998

Elizabeth Estes

a 70-yard rushing touchdown less than 1:10 into the game.

The Pride offense set the tone, blocking its way to over 100-yards rushing just six plays into the game. It finished with a total 271 yards on 28 carries, as well as three rushing touchdown.

Little brothers tend to cause drama, though.

With the score 20-13, and 2:53 left in the third quarter, Desert Vista (2-4) stopped a Mountain Pointe drive in its tracks, and forced a punt.

The momentum belonged to the Thunder as it marched the ball off its own 3-yard line. And as time expired in the third quarter, a game-tying drive seemed attainable.

“Seemed” is the key word.

Desert Vista blew its chances by

throwing an interception on the first play of the fourth quarter. After that, the momentum slipped away.

Mountain Pointe dialed up the exact coverage needed for junior defensive back Donte Lindsey to make a key interception.

“We went over that play a lot in practice. We knew it was coming. I saw the tight end come over on a corner route, and I jumped it,” Lindsey said.

That interception lead to the offensive line dominating again, allowing Rashie Hodge to score a 29-yard game-sealing touchdown three plays later.

That proved to the rest of Arizona that Mountain Pointe (395 total yards) doesn’t have to be perfect to get a victory when its front seven plays like it did on Friday night.

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(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer)

Mountain Pointe High’s Isaiah Pola-Mao pulls down Desert Vista High’s Chad Porter during the Ahwatukee Bowl.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

Switching it up

Mountain Pointe running game fine despite changes in lineup It means Stephens and others have a chance to become the main back in the Pride’s dominant running game, which characteristic of a seasoned averages 327.5 yards a game entering running back is patience, waiting Friday’s game at Highland (2-4). for a play to develop before The one thing that separates the turning up field.

5-foot-10, 168-pound Stephens is that (Bill Hardiman/Special to AFN) Anthony Stephens has shown signs fact he only plays offense while Antwaun of being that type of runner, but he Woodberry (cornerback), Rashie Hodge Desert Vista High middle linebacker Chad Porter runs the ball, grabbing the facemask of Mountain admittedly didn’t have it in him during (linebacker) and Delano Salgado Pointe defensive back Isaiah Pola-Mao. Mountain Pointe High’s third game of (cornerback) have started on defense. the year.

“We are going to mix it up, but we Justice Hudson went from center to “If I see it I’ll take it, but sometimes It was his first have to limit some left guard and only right guard Rudy you have to wait it out,” he said. “You game after being of these guys on Rauls has played the same position. have let things develop and then turn it suspended for offense because they Sophomore Alex Vogel has found his way up. A good back can do both and I think disciplinary reasons are so important on into the lineup at left tackle as Matthew we all have it covered.”

Aug. 19 Sandra Day O’Connor W, 51-6 the first two games, defense,” Pride coach Pola-Mao and Shomari Hayes started to Aug. 27 vs. Upland (Calif.) W, 41-22 meaning every Norris Vaughan said. concentrate on defense only.

Sept. 9 vs. Chandler W, 52-7 – Contact Jason Skoda at 480-898-7915 or carry was like three Sept. 16 vs. Mountain View W, 56-0 “Woodberry can “If we do our job it doesn’t matter who jskoda@ahwatukee.com. Follow him on Twitter @ JasonPSkoda. carries in his mind Sept. 23 at Pinnacle Wm 62-34 be special, but he is is back there,” Honne said. “They’re all Sept. 30 vs. Desert Vista W, 27-13 as he tried to make kind still learning good, and we have been creating some – Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills Oct. 7 at Highland up for his mistake. back there. Hodge holes. We’ve made some changes and News on Facebook and follow @AhwatukeeFN on Twitter.

Oct. 14 at Desert Ridge “I was anxious could be the guy, we’ve all adjusted to it.”

Oct. 21 vs.

Corona and I just wanted but we don’t want to It’s been a winning combination, but Oct. 28 at Gilbert to go,” he said this wear him down too Vaughan said the passing game may be week. “I wanted to much.” counted on more without Bragg, whom make up for that With the way the offensive line is he called the best running back in the lost time. I was the starting running back playing, and the versatility it has shown state.

S u s h i • Te p p a n and then just like that I wasn’t. I had to in recent weeks, whoever lines up in the “It’s not going to change much,” he calm down and see things differently.” backfield is going to find holes to their said. “It hurts you, but these guys are He sees things differently not only with liking. going to get better. Going forward the ball in his hands, but also as to what “We are going to hold this position though we are probably going to throw it truly meant to be a good teammate. down,” Woodberry said on Friday. “We the ball more.”

Missing that time because of something will pick (Bragg) up. He was going off, However it shakes out the rest of the * he did in the offseason cost him a more and now we have to step up.” season, Stephens, who is the second prominent role to start the year and vital Senior Eddie Rivas has played every leading rusher with 43 carries for 316 Sunday through Thursday time on the field. offensive line position depending on the yards and three touchdowns, is ready to More telling was the fact that he put opponent, Mason Honne moved from make the most of his opportunity. himself before the team. tackle to center.

Patiently.

“I learned a lot,” Stephens said. “When you are in it for the team, it comes with PICK 2: Rib Eye Steak, NY Steak, a lot of sacrifices and commitments. I Absolute Best Shrimp or Chicken should have known it all along but that PICK 2: From Beer Combo & Appetizer List Frank Daly mistake really showed me what it means PICK 2: From Sakana Rolls List Ahwatukee to be a teammate.”

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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 47

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BY JASON P. SKODA AFN PREP SPORTS DIRECTOR

A

lijah Gammage wanted a bigger challenge.

Then he was thrown right into the Ahwatukee Bowl, one of the betterknown and highly-attended football high school games in Arizona.

The Desert Vista High School junior had to sit out the first five games after transferring from Valley Christian.

He created havoc on the scout team as a quarterback and cornerback for five weeks and finally got his chance against top-ranked Mountain Pointe.

When No. 18 hit the field for the first time since October 2015 last week, he mostly played cornerback and had a few series at quarterback.

“I had some jitters in front of the big crowd,” Gammage admitted. “I started out a little slow, but I got back into the flow. I will be better next week.”

It’s a similar feel for the Thunder (24) heading into the final month of the season.

Desert Vista has played one of the more difficult 6A Conference schedules—the four defeats came against programs that have combined for one loss.

The players and coaches all feel it has prepared them for a playoff push because only one of the four remaining teams on the schedule has a winning record.

“A few of the games we played we lost on a play or two,” junior wide receiver/ safety Jake White said. “If we can polish up and focus on each play, stop those big plays from happening, we can come out with wins. We definitely have the talent.”

Desert Vista is a program where moral victories are not acceptable. Coming close and playing hard four quarters doesn’t cut it.

That was clear in the postgame huddle after the 27-13 loss to Mountain Pointe.

A hardened message was sent and heard before walking off the field at Karl Kiefer Stadium.

“There were some things we can build on,” Thunder coach Dan Hinds said.

“Moving forward from here on out, we have to have a playoff mentality. Win or go home. At this point we put ourselves in a bit of a corner, but we are surely going to fight out of it.”

It starts this week at Gilbert (1-5) with a need to get back to winning ways.

The team did not envision this type

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

of season, one where the Thunder have to go 3-1 down the stretch just to finish .500.

The winning percentage is down, but morale seems to be intact going forward.

“We focus on the brotherhood and have each other’s backs,” senior center Tristan Flores said. “It’s everything here at DV. We will fight for each other. When we bring that mentality and intensity on Friday nights we can play with anyone.”

The defense held up well against highpowered Mountain Pointe after falling behind 14-0 in the first quarter.

The offense has been dynamic at times with the emergence of Nick Thomas at quarterback, but the opposition’s defenses have been able to keep Keishaud White and Lelon Dillard under wraps after breakout years in 2015.

The addition of Gammage should help the Thunder on both sides of the ball.

“Gammage is a great athlete and a great kid,” Hinds said. “We are excited about what he can do for us going forward.

He’s a little behind simply because he missed the first five games.

“You can’t simulate game speed on the scout team,” he added. “It would have been like sending him in to take the SAT without a prep work while everyone else had five study sessions. He was a little rusty but he will fine going forward.”

Gammage, who plans on playing basketball and baseball for the Thunder, is just happy to be back playing real games instead of standing out on the scout team.

“It was difficult, but I knew I had to be here for my team and make them better,” he said of his scout team duties.

“I took it very serious and helped them as much as I could. Now I can help on the field and that’s why I came here.”

– 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 Twitter.

There’s always more stories on our website:

www.Ahwatukee.com

DV looking for its sixth coach in six years for girls hoops program

BY JASON P. SKODA AFN PREP SPORTS DIRECTOR

T

he instability that has plagued the Desert Vista High School’s girls basketball program apparently might continue for the 2016-17 season.

Cheyan Wilson resigned for unknown reasons, Thunder athletic director T.J. Snyder confirmed last week, continuing an odd trend for the school’s athletic department, which has seen coach after coach leave the program Wilson’s replacement will be the sixth coach in six years for the Thunder.

It could be a difficult time to get a lot of candidates this late in the hiring process.

Finding someone familiar with the girls and the program might be the right direction. Or Desert Vista could go with an interim coach for one year, as Corona del Sol High did with its football program a couple of years ago.

Snyder said, “We want to get a good fit. With the season just around the corner, we want to do the best we can to

give the girls a chance to feel good and comfortable with the new coach.”

It all started after the 2011-12 season when Rachel Proudfoot ended a fouryear run as the Thunder head coach to move to Virginia to help an ailing loved one.

Desert Vista went 75-29, including 25-7 her final year, under Proudfoot.

Jayce Chambers Sheppard, who had little experience coaching at the high-school level, was hired to replace Proudfoot. She lasted only 19 games before being asked to resign because of an incident involving a player.

Jontar Coleman was promoted from the junior varsity team and coached the final 10 games. He was then retained after interviewing for the job for the 2013-14 season.

The Thunder won its first state title under Coleman, going 30-2 and beating Westview High 53-37 in the finals. But he resigned at the end of the year for family reasons.

Will Gray was tabbed to replace

(AFN file photo)

Desert Vista head coach Cheyan Wilson chats up his team during the girls basketball state quarterfinals between the Thunder and Millennium Feb. 23.

Coleman. His demanding coaching style led to meetings with parents and administration before he resigned at the end of the year. The Thunder went 29-4 before losing in the semifinals.

Wilson, who didn’t respond to an AFN message left on his cell phone, came over from the boys program last year and led the Thunder to a 20-7 season before falling in the semifinals to Mesquite.

The search for his replacement comes as

Madison Golla, who averaged 5.5 points last year, is the top returning player.

“We need to get someone in place as soon as we can,” Snyder said. “The season is coming fast.”

– 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 Twitter.

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 49

Get Out

Make the most of your off time >> Find us online at GetOutAZ.com >> Follow us on Twitter @getoutaz >>Like us at facebook.com/ getoutaz

Rookie monster truck driver throws fear out the window

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

T

ony Ochs can talk for days about his job as the driver of Monster Jam’s Soldier Fortune Black Ops monster

truck.

The Army veteran recently wrapped up his first season as a driver, and he’s pleased that he has a couple of wins under his hood.

His goal, however, was to bring awareness to veterans and the truck.

“The biggest intention I had was to get my name on the map with Soldier Fortune Black Ops, and just pay tribute to all of the military and their families with the truck,” he said. “So far, it’s been a huge hit with children and adults alike. The kids associate it with the Black Ops video game. All of the adults know what it’s supposed to be associated with.”

A native of Oil City, Pennsylvania, Ochs will appear at University of Phoenix Stadium on Saturday for Monster Jam. “It’s my first show in Glendale,” he said.

“I’m so stoked. The stadium is gigantic. It’s the biggest venue we’ve been to as far as floor space. I can’t wait to see what kind of track they’re putting in there.”

Appearing in Arizona is important to Ochs as well, as he has family members who live here. Ochs spent 10 years in the Army, half of which were spent on base in Fort Hood and Fort Bliss, Texas, and the other overseas. Ochs has completed tours in Korea, Iraq and Afghanistan. He worked as an Apache helicopter technician, and has friends who work on Black Hawk copters at East Mesa’s Boeing plant.

“I have some really, really good friends who work right there,” he said. “I’m looking

IF YOU GO What: Monster Jam Where: University of Phoenix Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8 Cost: $20-$135. 800-745-3000 Info: ticketmaster.com Page 50

(Special to AFN)

Soldier Fortune Black Ops is inspired by the men and women who serve in the elite special-forces branches of the U.S. military.

forward to putting on a show for them, too. One of my friends is an Army liaison for the Boeing factory. Hopefully I can go over there and do a little tour.”

The Army, he said, prepared him for the Monster Truck tour.

“I had combat deployments during my military career. I have all of the experience to prepare me for the Monster Jam truck— physically and mentally.

“The Army keeps you in shape. It really takes someone in top physical condition to operate the Monster Trucks at a top-tier level. When you’re driving a Monster Truck, it’s like a two-hour weightlifting session and a 3-mile run all crammed in. That’s how much it takes out of you.”

Changing careers from a helicopter technician to Monster Jam driver isn’t as odd as it sounds. He grew up in rural Pennsylvania, where ATVs are aplenty.

“Plus my girlfriend was a motorcycle stunt performer for Feld Entertainment’s Marvel Universe Live when I was leaving the Army,” he said. “I put my resume in with them. I told them that I had worked on

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

motorcycles my whole life. Feld hired me as a stunt motorcycle mechanic for almost two years.”

When he was with Marvel, Feld was developing the Soldier Fortune Black Ops truck, as an addition to the original Soldier Fortune.

“They wanted a driver with a military background and sports background— which I had,” he said. “Next thing I knew, they were testing me to see how I handle the truck and how well I drove. I passed the test to debut the always-beautiful Soldier Fortune Black Hawk truck.”

The show at University of Phoenix Stadium is an exhibition event, with the season arriving in January.

“Next season, they’re throwing me in with the big boys Fox Sports 1 tour,” he said. “It’s a championship series. We’re all competing for points, and at the end of the season, whoever wins that championship has an automatic bid to the world finals in Las Vegas in March.”

For now, he’s looking forward to Glendale, which is hosting a Pit Party from

(Special to AFN)

Tony Ochs spent 10 years in the Army, half of which were spent on base in Fort Hood and Fort Bliss, Texas, and the other overseas in Korea, Iraq and Afghanistan.

2:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 8. Fans can mingle with the drivers, get autographs and get up close and personal with trucks and drivers.

He admits that he gets a little nervous before races.

“The hour or two leading up to the show I have the butterflies,” Ochs said.

“When it comes to crunch time and it’s time to put the hammer down and fly that Monster Truck, all fear goes out the window.”

– Comment on this article and like GetOutAZ on Facebook and follow GetOutAZ on Twitter.

CALENDAR

Weekend brings corn mazes, concerts and motorcycles

BY JUSTIN FERRIS GETOUT/AFN STAFF WRITER

Get ‘a-mazed’ at festival

67 Boxer Liston 68 Pooch’s name 69 Newspaper piece 70 River to the Missouri 71 Put one over on DOWN 1 Has 2 ___ de gallo 3 Twin in Genesis 4 South Carolina city 5 Coal product 6 Baseball brother 7 Uneven 8 “Tiny Bubbles” singer 9 Finis

10 Ewe’s coat 11 Mature 12 Ms. O’Donnell 13 Dress up 19 Parka feature 21 Profundity 25 “Cheers” bartender Woody 27 Moistens, in a way 28 “___ go bragh!”

29 Part of BYO 31 Took a fighting stance 34 School tie?

35 Emulates Eminem 37 Rideshare company 38 Teeny

SUDUKO

40 Sgt. Snorkel’s dog 41 Tie ___ (tipple) 46 Was in the hole 48 Town crier’s cry 49 Kid’s name 50 Nosy Parker 51 Sign on a plane facility 53 Magic amulets 54 “___ sera!”

57 Apple bestseller 59 Mao Tse-___ 60 Mississippi feeder 61 Bring to ruin 62 Hammer or sickle 64 WWII entertainers

Spend a day of fall fun at the Corn Maze and Fall Festival as you try to solve a sevenacre Arizona Rattler-inspired corn maze, ride barrel and tractor trains, brave a zip line, pet animals, watch duck races, buy pumpkins, and more exciting farm activities.

DETAILS>> Times vary, today-Nov. 6.

Vertuccio Farms, 4011 S. Power Road, Mesa.

Tickets: $9. 480-882-1482. vertucciofarms. com/fall-festival.

Find vintage goods at market

Every month Highland Yard Vintage hosts a four-day indoor market featuring antiques, interior decorations, vintage clothing, food and more from up to 50 local designers and vendors. This month the

LL RI

• AHWATU

K EE

ACROSS 1 Crude group?

5 Afternoon: Sp. 10 Distort 14 Long (for) 15 Crazy as ___ 16 Emanation 17 Org. with eligibility rules 18 Locomotive locale 20 Bread type 22 North of Virginia 23 Pacific ring 24 Bindle bearer 26 Big ___ Conference 27 Far down 30 Some hosp. cases 32 Once, once 33 Grand Ole ___ 36 On the ___ vive 39 “No question” 42 ___-Jet (winter vehicle) 43 Mouth, slangily 44 Dundee denials 45 Negative word 47 Cooking wine 49 CBS cop show 52 Starting place 55 Job ad abbr.

56 Bellybutton type 58 Total 63 Restaurant special 65 “This can’t be!”

66 ___ Nostra

Double OU

ER N & TAV G

CROSSWORD

theme of the market is “Shades of Fall.”

DETAILS>> 10 a.m.-6 p.m., ThursdaySunday. Behind Merchant Square, 1509 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Cost: free. facebook. com/Highlandyardvintage.

Motorcycles roaring in Mesa

The first Friday of the month finds 3,000 motorcycle lovers tooling around downtown Mesa for food, a beer garden, and live music.

This is a family-friendly event.

DETAILS>> 6 p.m.-10 p.m., Friday.

Downtown Mesa, Main Street and N. Macdonald Road facebook.com/ MotorcyclesOnMain.

Drink in Oktoberfest in Tempe

The Four Peaks Oktoberfest is an extravaganza that features authentic See

CALENDAR on page 52

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CALENDAR

from page 51

German cuisine and general fair food. Drink a wide range of beers; listen to traditional polka, local bands and rapper L’il John; scream on carnival rides; and let the kids play in the Kinderfest area.

DETAILS>> Times vary, Friday-Sunday.

Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado, Tempe. Tickets: $7.57 (one-day pre-sale), $12.97 (three-day pre-sale), $10 at the gate (one-day). Children 12 and under free. tempeoktoberfest.com.

Want even more Oktoberfest? See other festivals taking place around the state at Phoenix.org.

Symphony goes to Hogwarts

Journey to a magical place as the Phoenix Symphony plays your favorite music from the Harry Potter movies. The symphony

encourages dressing up as wizards, or in other Halloween costumes.

DETAILS>> 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m., FridaySunday. Phoenix Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. Tickets: $33-$98. tickets.phoenixsymphony.org.

Railfair 2016 on track

Train lovers should be at this event.

You can freely tour the railroad park, enjoy exhibits and demonstrations about model trains, and see rare vintage railroad equipment not normally on display. Plus, enjoy food and live entertainment.

DETAILS>> 10 a.m.-5 p.m., SaturdaySunday. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale. Cost: free. www.therailroadpark.com.

Fall League swings into play

Baseball season continues as each major league team sends their six hottest prospects to Arizona, where they form six teams that play two months of action-

packed games. About 60 percent of these players go on to fame in the big leagues.

DETAILS>> Times vary, Saturday-Nov. 19, spring training stadiums. Tickets: $8 adults, $6 kids. mlb.com/mlb/events.

Chandler Symphony starts series

Join the Chandler Symphony for the Classic Series opening concert, “Fall Fanfare.” Hear the upbeat “Light Calvary Overture” by Franz von Suppé, the delightful “Capriccioso Italien” by Tchaikovsky, the always fun “Concert for Clarinet” by Copland, and Schumann’s “Symphony No. 3”.

DETAILS>> 3 p.m., Sunday. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Cost: free. chandlercenter.org/ concerts/34-cso-classic.

ZZ Top hits Scottsdale

Prepare for an evening of beard envy as legendary band ZZ Top brings its eclectic style to the Valley. Join the group as it plays hits and favorites, such as “Gimme All Your Lovin,” “Legs” and “Sharp Dressed Man,” from a 45+ year career.

DETAILS>> 8 p.m., Sunday. The Pool at Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale. Tickets: $25-$65. talkingstickresort.com.

• Family Owned & Serving The East Valley Since 1973 • Shuttle Service, Pick Up & Delivery Available at no extra cost

“Bless your beautiful hide…” This classic musical, based on the 1954 movie, follows the antics of Adam Pontipee and his six Biblical-named brothers as they try to woo seven ladies at their rustic log cabin.

DETAILS>> Times vary, Oct. 13-Nov. 26. Hale Centre Theatre, 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert. Tickets: $32 adults, $22 students, $18 kids 5-12. haletheatrearizona.com.

Fashion Week hosts designers

Move over New York, because the Southwest celebrates its own fashion week.

See the latest fashion from more than 30 of the hottest regional emerging and established designers, plus shop the Style Villa with the styles you see on the runway.

DETAILS>> 5 p.m., Oct. 13-15. Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale.

Tickets: $50-$200. phoenixfashionweek. com.

Get more ideas for fun things to do in the East Valley - and beyond - at Phoenix.org.

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Page 52

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

Classifieds

Awatukee Foothills News

1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway #249 • Tempe, AZ 85282 480.898.6465 class@timespublications.com

Deadlines

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

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

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NOW HIRING FOR ALL POSITIONS: Caretakers, Bathers, & Reception. Attn to detail, multi-tasking skills, & a friendly calm demeanor are must haves.

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Call us today for more information or stop by our Recruitment Event: Date: Wed., Sept 28th Time: 9:00am - 2:00pm Location: 1930 S. Alma School Road, Mesa AZ 85210 - (ResCare HomeCare Office) Great Caregiver Candidates: * Are Caring & Compassionate * Looking for Rewarding Work * Have LIFE Experience Caring for a Loved-One and/or Currently a PROFESSIONAL Caregiver * Would like to Give Back to the Community While Earning Income * Seeking Part-Time & Flexible Hours Training is Provided for FREE! Open Caregiver Positions: * Companions * Personal Care Attendants * Caregivers with Habilitation Experience a plus For more details please call: Robin or Carol at 480-491-1140 www.ResCareHomeCare.com

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Garage Sales/ Bazaars Becky's 3rd Annual Fall Boutique Get your Christmas shopping done early & check out products from great local artisans & some of your favorite direct sales companies!

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Real Estate

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Chamber President/CEO

Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce (AFCC) is searching for a dynamic person to lead the organization. The AFCC is a business service organization designed to meet business and community needs.

People who live, work and play in this thriving community share the intimacy of small town living, while enjoying the plentiful amenities of a bustling metropolis. The AFCC works hard for its members by strengthening the local economy, promoting the community, providing networking opportunities and representing the interest of business with government. It is an all encompassing resource for the community and the voice of commerce. It represents businesses working together to improve the quality of life for all who choose to work or reside in this beautiful community.

The individual we seek must be a progressive professional. Executive responsibilities include program development and management, financial management, public policy development, public relations, marketing and personnel management.

Do you?

-Possess non-profit association management experience?

-Possess strong leadership skills?

-Have a strong track record?

-Have the ability to communicate effectively to small and large groups?

-Have highly developed interpersonal and communication skills?

-Are results oriented and are a global thinker?

-Are diplomatic, persuasive, quick thinking, outgoing and open-minded to different views and are you approachable?

-Have the ability to multi-task and excellent time management skills?

-Have strong public communication skills?

-Have strong leadership ability and conflict resolution skills?

-Possess negotiation skills and ability to influence?

If you have the qualities listed above, submit your resume, references and salary requirements by electronic submission only, by October 15th at 4pm to admin@ahwatukeechamber.com. No phone calls please.

Gilbert: Seville Golf & Country Club Huge Community Wide Garage Sale btwn Riggs/ N & S. of Chandler Heights. W. of Power & E. & W. of Higley.

Sat Oct 8th & Sun the 9th 8am-?

Miscellaneous For Sale Recumbent Bike Model: Sun EZ-TAD SX Trike $995 - Mint condition/hardly used 480-759-0430 480-275-1009

Homes For Rent 1,685 Sq Ft. 2bd/2ba 2 Car Ga. Washer/Dryer. Fireplace. Covered Patio. Rec Ctr Membership. Pets OK 55+ $1300 4828 E. Paiute St. Phx Ahwatukee.

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1200 sq ft. 2 bedroom +den, 2 bathrooms, 2car garage, grassy back yard with mature citrus. $1500/mo. Utilities paid by landlord. First/last/ refundable security deposit/references.

Call Dave or Fran at 480-893-8048.

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Watch for Garage Sales in Classifieds!

Pet and Home Services

• Reasonable Rates • Special Pricing on Extended Service Licensed/Bonded/Insured Ahwatukee Resident

Call Eleanor Today!

480.287.4897

www.WhileYouAreAwayServices.com

You will find them easy with a yellow background.

Garage Sale Fri & Sat 7a-11am Household, clothes, kitchen items, furniture, electronics, mason jars, kid items, DVDs, MORE 555 W. Lane Dr Mesa

Only $25 includes 1 week online

To place an ad please call: 480-898-6465 class@timespublications.com

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 53

Service Directory

Cleaning Services

Concrete & Masonry

MIKE’S

Not Enough Time in the Day? Call

DRYWALL, PAINTING & REMODELING SERVICE SPECIALIZING IN… • Water Damage • Drywall Repair • Popcorn & Wallpaper Removal

Quality Professional Cleaning

HAVE A SERVICE BUSINESS?

Cleaning Services

4 WEEKS STARTING AT $120

"MAID FOR YOU" The Working Professional Complete Home Care $99.

Weekly - Bi-Monthly Vacation Homes 480-980-3321

480.898.6465

CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

Drywall

• Int/Ext Painting • Patio & Carport Ceiling Resurfacing • Stucco Repairs

Since1980 Licensed & Bonded ROC 130069

Weekly, Bi-Weekly & Monthly

(480) 833-1027 JENNIFER BEEBE References Available 20 Years Experience Bonded & Insured

It’s a Clear Choice! www.mikesdrywallservice.com

Contractors Appliance Repairs

Contractors

RENOVATION SOLUTIONS

Appliance Repair Now

If It’s Broken, We Can Fix It! • Same Day Service • On-Site Repairs • Servicing All Major Brands • Quality Guaranteed

ROC# 290545

BONDED & INSURED

HOME IMPROVEMENT & RENOVATIONS

General Contractor 30 Years of Experience

We Also Buy Used Appliances, Working or Not

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

480-659-1400 Licensed & Insured

HOME

R E N O VAT I O N

Business/Professional Services

&

Deep Cleaning Specialists

$30 OFF

1st Deep Cleaning *After 5 hours of service

High Quality Immaculate Services at an Affordable Price!

Monday through Saturday | Licensed Professionals

FREE ESTIMATES

480-258-3390

www.lucysimmaculateservices.com

• Energy Efficient Window and Door Replacement • Custom Homes • Kitchen and Bath Remodel • Room Additions • Patio Covers and Extensions • Gazebos

• Additions • Alterations • Kitchen and bath remodeling specialists Ahwatukee resident

480.848.9890 ROC#245469

Owners have over 20 years of experience in Ahwatukee and over 1,000 satisfied customers.

“Experience You Can Count On” Carpet Cleaning

Family owned and proudly serving Ahwatukee for over 20 years.

Powerful Truck Mounted Soft Hot Water Extractions.

Carpets, Tile & Grout, Upholstery, Pet Stain/Odor Treatment Residential/Commercial www.extractioncleaning.com 100% Satisfaction Guarantee!

480.460.5030

Page 54

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

Contact Geno Carr for a free estimate

480-688-6849

Place Your Advertisement Here.

Call 480-898-6465 to Advertise in the Service Directory.

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 55

Meetings/Events PARENTS OF ADDICTED LOVED ONES Are you affected by someone who is dealing with an addiction?

If so, know that you are not alone and that the PAL (Parents of Addicted Loved Ones) group can help. The group is available to provide education and support to anyone 18 years or older who is dealing with a friend or family member with an addiction. The meeting are at held on the second and fourth Monday nights at 7pm at Mountain Park Community Church at Pecos Rd and 24th St. in room 117. The meetings are free of charge, completely confidential and could change your life! Please join us and get the tools you need to help yourself and your addicted loved one. For more info go to www.pal-group.org.

Widowed-to-Widowed Grief Support Group every Monday at 6pm, Pyle Adult Recreation Center, Tempe (SW corner of Rural & Southern). Call Kay at 480.861.8031 for more information.

Meetings/Events

Meetings/Events

Meetings/Events

Meetings/Events

AFSA (AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS SENIOR ASSOCIATION Come join us on THUR., OCT 6, for an Oktoberfest lunch and entertainment at Sheraton Four Points Hotel located at 51st St/Elliot Road. Doors open at 11am and lunch is at noon.

Cost is $13. Deadline for reservations is Sat, Oct 1. For additional information, please call Sue McCann at (480) 469-9388.

Democrats and Donuts This monthly gathering is held the third Wednesday of each month from 8 - 9:30 a.m. at Denny's, 7400 West Chandler Boulevard, Chandler. Sponsored by the Legislative District 18 Democrats, speakers cover current issues of interest. Meetings are free and open to the public, breakfast may be purchased. For more information, visit www.ld18democrats.org /meetings or email mariec9@q.com

Crops of Luv We make Scrapbooks for critically-ill children who have had their "WISH" trip come true!

Scrapbook with us, make embellishments for us, donate your time, or your commercial space, donate funds to ship albums, etc!

Does your teen need community service hours? We could use their help!

Copsofluv.com 480.634.7763 Ahwatukee based non-profit.

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

AHWATUKEE/CHANDLER Bosom Buddies. We meet the 2nd Saturday of the month, 10:00 AM-12:00 noon in the Conference Room at Dignity Health Urgent CareAhwatukee 4545 E. Chandler Blvd Phoenix, AZ Please contact Deb Sidman: 602.460.9893 or Devon Pollard: 602.318.8462 See more at: http://www.bosombuddies-az.org/ At Bosom Buddies of AZ we support women of all ages and in all stages of breast cancer.

Place Your Meeting/Event Ad email ad copy to ecota@times publications.com

In-Ahwatukee Toastmasters Club meets from 6:45-8am every Tuesday at Dignity Health Urgent Care Ahwatukee - Community Room (1st floor), 4545 E. Chandler Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85048.

Guests welcome anytime! http://4873.toast mastersclubs.org/

Smart Recovery Meeting Wed’s 7:00 8:30 p.m. 6400 W. Del Rio Chandler Montessori School next to Unitarian Church room 5. All issues drugs, alcohol, gambling, online addictions, & medications. 480-532-2460

Landscape Maintenance

Landscape Maintenance

Juan Hernandez

SPRINKLER

Drip/Install/Repair

Not a licensed contrator

23 years exp.

Call Now (480) 720-3840

LEE'S SPRINKLER REPAIR 30 years experience Timers - Valves Heads Leaks FREE ESTIMATES Ahwatukee Resident Call 480-282-7222 Not a licensed contractor

Serving the Ahwatukee area for over 22 years

The Possibilities are Endless

Custom Design and Renovation turning old to new Custom Built-ins, BBQs, Firepits, Fireplaces, Water Features, Re-Designing Pools, Masonry, Lighting, Tile, Flagstone, Culture Stone & Travertine, Synthetic Turf, Sprinkler/Drip, Irrigation Systems, Clean ups & Hauling

Need to hire some help?

Call for a FREE consultation and Estimate

Call Classifieds Today!

To learn more about us, view our photo gallery at: ShadeTreeLandscapes.com

480.898.6465

CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

Landscape Maintenance

Bonded/Licensed • ROC #225923

480-730-1074

AHWATUKEE AL-ANON family group invites you to meetings every Mon 7:15 PM at Corpus Christi Church on 3550 E Knox. Wed 8:00 PM at Community Center, 4700 Warner Rd., Fri "Women's only" 9:00 AM at Mountian View Luthern Church 11022 S 48th St., Sat "Men's stag" 12PM at Mountian View Luthern Church 11022 S 48th St. Rita 480-496-4535

Home Improvement Home Improvement

CHAMPION BUILT CONTRACTING INC.

• Pavers and Travertine • Retaining Walls • Synthetic Turf and SOD • Plants and Trees • Ramadas and Patio Covers

Where Quality Comes First!

Total Design/Build Kitchens | Baths Replacement Windows Additions | Patios Total Interior Remodels

FREE

ESTIMATES!

25 +YEARS

IN BUSINESS

Residential/Commercial National Assoc. of the Remodeling Industry Member Lic | Bonded | Insured | References ROC# 113643, 113642

(480)497-5222

ChampionBuiltContracting.com Page 56

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

• BBQs and Fire Pits • Lighting (low voltage) • Irrgation Systems and Repairs • One-Time Clean-up • Maintenance

480-539-2597 cyclandscaping.com ROC: CR21-232290

A-Z Tauveli Prof LANDSCAPING LLC

We will give you totally new landscaping or revamp your current landscaping!

Tree/Palm Tree Trimming • Sprinkler Systems Desertscape • Gardening • Concrete Work Block Wall • Real & Imitation • Flagstone

FREE ESTIMATES

602-471-3490 or 480-962-5149 ROC#276019 • LICENSED BONDED INSURED

Arizona Specialty Landscape

New & Re-Do Design and Installation

Affordable | Paver Specialists Drip & Sprinkler Repair BBQ’s & Outdoor Fireplaces Lighting

Free Estimates 7 Days a Week!

ROC# 186443 • BONDED

480.844.9765

Landscape Maintenance

Landscape Maintenance Foothills Touch Landscapes LLC Lawn care/Maint.

Starting as Low as $25.

Install/Design Not a licensed contractor

Ahw. Res. 30 yrs Exp Free Estimates.

Call Pat (480) 343-0562

Landscape Maintenance Juan Hernandez

Tree Trimming & Clean UPs 23 Years exp (480) 720-3840

YOUR CLASSIFIED SOURCE

Meetings/Events

Painting

Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book Step Study Mtg Every Tuesday 7:00pm. Closed meeting. Child care provided.

Mtn View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St., Phoenix, 85044

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING

480.898.6465

Painting

Interior, Exterior House Painting.

Stucco Patching.

Floor Tile Installation Quality work/Materials.

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

Painting

CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

Irrigation Repair Services Inc. Sprinkler/Drip Repair Lighting • Timers Install All Commercial Parts Warranties on All Work 20 Years Experience & Locally In Business!

I Do My Own Work!

FREE ESTIMATES! CALL 24 HOURS Referred out of Ewing Irrigation

480.295.2279

Licensed • Bonded • Insured Technician

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

Interior/Exterior Painting 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Dunn Edwards Quality Paint Small Stucco/Drywall Repairs

Call Lance White

480.721.4146

We Are State Licensed and Reliable!

www.irsaz.com

Free Estimates • Senior Discounts

480-338-4011

ROC# 256752

Not a licensed contractor.

PAINTING FOR PENNIES Compare And Save!

See MORE Ads Online! www.Ahwatukee.com

Complete Lawn Service & Weed Control

Complete Interior and Exterior House Painting

$60/Month!

• One Month Free Service • Licensed, Bonded Insured for your protection.

• Call or Text for a Free Quote

kjelandscape.com • ROC#281191

480-586-8445

SPRINKLER & DRIP REPAIR

VALLEY WIDE FREE ESTIMATES!

Specials Lawn Mowing Starts At $20 Full Service Starts At $70

Not A Licensed Contractor

ROC #115384/Bonded

The Valley’s Premier Painters Proudly Serving Ahwatukee for a Decade.

Family Owned & Operated

15 + Yrs Exp! All English Speaking Crew

SONORAN LAWN

480-745-5230

East Valley PAINTERS

-Interior & Exterior Painting -Stucco/Drywall Repairs & Texture Matching -Minor Carpentry -4 Year Warranty!

Voted #1

• Tree Trimming & Removal • Gravel Spread • General Yard Work • Weed Removal • Sprinkler Drip & Timer Repair • Insured • Free Estimates • All Work Guaranteed

-Competitive Pricing

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

10% OFF

Not a licensed contractor

602-329-3396

Bob480-917-3617

homeimprovementclub.com

CLEAN-UP & TREE SERVICE

Call Dennis or Lisa

Mobile 602-369-5017

480-405-7808

Most Repairs Under $100

Angie’s List Super Service Award Winner!!!

• Painting • Wallpapering & Removal • Color Consultations • Finish Painting • Handyman Services 4th Generation Painter 30 Years Skilled Experience Always Neat & Dependable Expert Workmanship Guaranteed References Available

Lifetime Guarantee

~Landscape Lighting ~ Fountain Repair ~ Misting Systems

Warranty On All Work

RPL Decorators

Licensed Bonded Insured | ROC # 301084

We Only Service Ahwatukee, So We Are Always Close By To Meet Unexpected Needs

We Do Installs!

ROC#243600

We Beat Competitors Prices & Quality Free Estimates• 3 Year Warranty

480-688-4770

www.eastvalleypainters.com Family Owned & Operated

Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131

ACP is 100%Veteran Owned & Supports Our Vets with 10% off for all Military Personnel

See What We’re Up To!

www.AcpPaintingllc.com Licensed - Bonded - Insured ROC 290242

FREE ESTIMATES • CALL TODAY!

(480)785-6323

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 57

Plumbing

Plumbing

Plumbing

Plumbing

PLUMBERS CHARGE TOO MUCH!!!

Beat Any Price By 10% FREE R/O FILTERS!

Water Heaters Installed - $469 Unclog Drains - $49.95 FREE ESTIMATES • MANY REFERRALS ANYTHING PLUMBING • SAME DAY SERVICE

Bonded/Insured • ROC #223709

480-405-7099 ItsJustPlumbSmart.com

Plumbing

Meetings/Events

Service v Repair v Replacement

Aegis Hospice Grief/Loss Support Group We meet 6 pm on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month.

Legacy Funeral Home: 1722 N. Banning St. Mesa, Refreshments provided.

Contact: Rick Wesley 480-219-4790 rick@ aegishospice.com

Owned and Operated

by Rod Lampert Ahwatukee Resident Serving Ahwatukee for over 25 years Licensed • Bonded • Insured • ROC 189848

(480) 279-4155

Pool Service / Repair GROWING TOGETHER:

Plumbing & Rooter Service

That's the motto of The Ahwatukee Community Garden Project. Get your hands dirty while learning about desert gardening. Join us every Sunday morning starting at 8 A.M. in the Garden at 4700 E Warner Rd. north of the Farmers' Market. acgarden.org

$64* Drain Cleaning *Some conditions apply. Call for details.

PLUMBING $35.00 Off Any Service Call Today!

A+ RATED

We Repair or Install ROC # 272721 Page 58

AHWATUKEE’S #1 PLUMBER Licensed • Bonded • Insured

704.5422

(480)

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

$39 Off* Any Service *Call for Details. For a Limited Time.

From Water Heaters to Toilets, Slab Leaks to Clogs!

24/7 Emergency Service

100% PGuarantee O O L S E RV I C E SFAST on Our Work 60 Minute

Service Available

Estimates Available

480.405.3020 Bonded | Insured | Lic’d ROC 257806

JuanPavers Hernandez • Concrete Water Features • Sprinkler Repair

P O O L R E PA I R

Pebble cracking, Plaster peeling, Rebar showing, Pool Light out?

I CAN HELP!

23 Years Experience • Dependable & Reliable

Call Juan at

480-720-3840 Not a licensed contractor.

Pool Service / Repair

Ahw Resident • Owner Operated Maintenance & Repair Professional and Superior Service We maintain, repair and service all types of pools, equipment, filters, cleaning systems, fresh water and salt water systems

Call me, Howard:

480.231.9651

AZPoolExpert.com BBB Member Not a licensed contractor.

Roofing

Pool Service / Repair

Meetings/Events AFSA (Ahwatukee Foothills Senior Association) is starting their new season on Thursday, September 1, 2016. The monthly luncheon is held at the Sheraton Four Points Hotel located at 51st St. and Elliot Rd., Phoenix/Ahwatukee.

Social hour starts at 11am and lunch is at Noon. Cost is $13.

Deadline for reservations is Saturday, August 27. NEW MEMBERS WELCOME -- open to men and women 55plus. Participate in delicious lunches (including coffee/tea and dessert), and entertainment as well. Casino trips are offered every other month. For additional information, please contact Sue McCann at (480) 469-9388.

$25 OFF

Filter Cleaning!

Monthly Service & Repairs Available

602-546-POOL 7 6 6 5

Roofing

Window Cleaning

Meetings/Events

ROOFING CONTRACTOR with 32 years exp Specializing in all types repairs, re-roofs, coating & walking decks.

Quality service & response our first priority.

All work guaranteed.

ROC# 100401-L42 ROC# 132572-C42

John's Window Cleaning 1-story $125 / 2-story $145 -inside and out up to 30 panes (add'l panes $2) Screens cleaned $2.50 per pane.

Power Washing and Re-Screening available Same day Service (480) 201-6471

The Ahwatukee Republican Women's Club (ARW) General meetings are held on the 4th Tuesday of the month (unless otherwise noted) at the Four Points by Sheraton South Mountain, 10831 S 51st St Phoenix, 85044. Social Networking begins at 6:30 PM and the meeting (program) begins at 7:00 PM. Additional info contact: ARWomen@aol.com.

Visit our website at www.ahwatukee republican women.com

Call Carl 480-895-3425 or 602-432-9183

www.barefootpoolman.com See our Before’s and After’s on Facebook Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC# 272001

MISSED THE DEADLINE? Place your ad online!

Call 480-898-6564

Place Your Meeting/Event Ad email ad copy to

Roofing

ecota@times publications.com

Public Notice

CLASSIFIED DEADLINES Classified Ads: Prior Monday at 11am for Wednesday Life Events Notices: Anniversaries, Obituaries, Engagements, etc Friday at 9am

480-898-6465 class@times publications.com

WE’RE ALWAYS HERE FOR YOU

480.898.6465

CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

Tree Services

Car for Sale?

Advertise It Here!

Tiles, shingles, flat, repairs & new work Free Estimates • Ahwatukee Resident

Call 480.898.6465

CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

Over 30 yrs. Experience

480-706-1453

Roofing

Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1984

The Most Detailed Roofer in the State

TK

®

Tim KLINE Roofing, LLC ROOFING

New Construction, Complete Re-Roof, Repairs, Tile, Asphalt Shingle, Foam and more!

WWW.PAYNESONS.COM Contact us for a FREE evaluation

480.988.9250 SEE OUR REVIEWS ON:

Roofs Done Right...

The FIRST Time!

ROC: 194202

ROC: 138549B

Quality Leak Repairs & Re-Roofs

Honest Free Estimates References DENNIS PORTER

15-Year Workmanship Warranty on All Complete Roof Systems

480-460-7602 or 602-710-2263

timklineroofing.com

RANDY HALFHILL

FREE Estimate and written proposal TRI CERTIFIED INSTALLER LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED

Family Owned/ Operated

480-357-2463

R.O.C. #156979 K-42 Licensed / Bonded

602-910-1485

Lic#ROC 152111 Bonded

U.S. ARBOR Tree Service

• Tree Trimming • Tree Removal • Stump Grind • Queen Palm & Citrus Treatment • Deep Root Fertilization

www.usarbor.com FREE ESTIMATES

480.812.0731 Lic #990148 • Insured

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 Page 59

F un al e- l up

UP TO

T

$5,925 $5,925 IN REBATES OR 0% APR FOR 48 OR 60 MO.*

10-Year Parts and Labor Limited Warranty* *On Selected Systems ($1,295 Value - No Charge)

Up to $800 in Utility Rebates*

*Up to a $2,825 Brewer’s Dealer Rebate, up to $800 Utility Rebate, up to $300 Federal Tax Credit & up to $2,000 Trane Trade In Allowance. See your independent Trane Dealer for complete program eligibility, dates, details and restrictions. Special financing offers OR trade-in allowances from $75 up to $2,000 valid on qualifying equipment only. Offers vary by equipment. All sales must be to homeowners in the United States. Void where prohibited. *The Home Projects and Home Projects VisaŽ credit cards are issued by Wells Fargo Financial National Bank, an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. If you have a Visa card and you use it for cash advances, the cash advance fee is 5.00% of the amount of the cash advance, but not less than $10.00. This information is accurate as of 07/01/2016 and is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921. Offer expires 12/15/2016.

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com