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Wednesday, December 16, 2020

Carefree council OKs strategic work plan BY SARAH DONAHUE Foothills Focus Staff Writer

Cave Creek district struggles during COVID-19

o lead the Carefree Town Council in its policy and decision making throughout the next council term, the governing body unanimously passed its strategic work plan. It was also adopted during the December 1 town council meeting. This strategic work plan outlines the

town’s guiding principles, value statement as well as associated core tasks for four different focus areas for the town. They include quality community development, infrastructure management, economic development and financial stability as well as communications, marketing and community engagement. This work plan lets the citizens know the targets and priorities of the town council and what it will be working on over the

course of the next 24 months, said Carefree Town Administrator Gary Neiss. “This is something that is not written in stone but meant to evolve over time to the different needs of the community as it evolves,” he said during the meeting. He added that future councils will revisit the value statement and guiding principles within the work plan and adjust it as leader-

see CAREFREE page 4

PAC trying to incorporate New River, Desert Hills

BUSINESS ........19

Ofrenda Cave Creek moves into town

YOUTH ...........31

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OPINION ................... 16 BUSINESS ................. 19 FEATURES ................ 20 YOUTH ...................... 28 CLASSIFIEDS ............ 33 Zone

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BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

group of New River and Desert Hills residents have formed a political action committee for a last-ditch effort to incorporate the two areas. The Let New River Desert Hills Decide Political Action Committee will meet on Wednesday, December 16, to discuss its plans to try to become a city. PAC Chairman Dave Thompson said the group believes self-governance is the best method to reach its goals. “We have filed our incorporation initiative for the ballot with the county,

see NEW RIVER page 5

Dave Thompson—chairman of the Let New River Desert Hills Decide Political Action Committee—has lived in New River since 2000. He is leading the charge to incorporate New River and Desert Hills. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

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An edition of the East Valley Tribune The Foothills Focus is published every Wednesday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout the North Valley. To find out where you can pick up a copy of The Foothills Focus, please visit www.thefoothillsfocus.com CONTACT INFORMATION Main number: 623-465-5808 | Fax: 623-465-1363 Circulation: 480-898-5641 Publisher: Steve T. Strickbine Vice President: Michael Hiatt Associate Publisher: Eric Twohey | 480-898-5634 | erict@thefoothillsfocus.com ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Display Advertising: 623-465-5808 Classifieds/Inside Sales: Elaine Cota | 480-898-7926 | ecota@timespublications.com TJ Higgins | 480-898-5902 | tjhiggins@timespublications.com Steve Insalaco | 480-898-5635 | sinsalaco@timespublications.com Advertising Office Manager: Lori Dionisio | 480-898-6309 | ldionisio@timespublications.com Director of National Advertising Zac Reynolds | 480-898-5603 | zac@thefoothillsfocus.com

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

CAREFREE from page 1

ship changes over time. “Carefree’s leadership is committed to providing a safe community with quality infrastructure and services within its limited financial capacity and minimizing tax liability on its residents,” the value statement read. “That’s the common theme that’s interwoven in everything that we have done, everything that we will do and continue to do,” Neiss said about the value statement. “That’s consistent with this council and past councils and in my 18 years is something that has been celebrated by this community.” This value statement is specific to Carefree’s residents and businesses and shows what the town council is committed to, Neiss explained. On the other hand, he said the guiding principles are broader and appeal to a greater market area. “Obviously, there are only 4,000 people in Carefree, and those 4,000 people can’t justify the generation of the tax revenue to operate the town, so we

NEWS DEPARTMENT Executive Editor: Christina Fuoco-Karasinski | 480-898-5631 christina@timespublications.com

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have to attract people up to Carefree,” Neiss said. The town must define what it is to the outside world to attract outsiders, which is what the guiding principles seek to do, he added. “Carefree is a distinctive, premier upper Sonoran Desert community that seeks to deliver high-quality lifestyle, experienced-based retail destinations and access to nearby expansive desert preserves and lakes,” the guiding principles stated. An economic development work plan was also unanimously passed and adopted during the meeting. The economic work plan is formatted similarly to the strategic work plan, where it outlines focus areas and objectives and is also dynamic and may be adjusted over time as new propositions and affairs are introduced. The process leading up to the adoption of the strategic work plan started as the recent election concluded, the information summary states. Mayor Les Peterson and town council met with the incoming and outgoing council mem-

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bers to talk about the community’s focus areas and direction for the 2020-22 council term. “We started this path by talking about our backgrounds and defining what we thought individually as the strengths, the weaknesses, the opportunities and the threats to Carefree.” From there, the council members “cultivated” common themes, which ended up being the pillars of the strategic plan, he said. Overall, the work plan serves as a guide for the town council to navigate future policy determinations and assist in forming future budgets. Neiss explained how the council wanted to solicit as much citizen participation as possible while drafting the strategic work plan to get more input and direction. However, he added that the pandemic made public engagement difficult. The town council held a series of public workshops via Zoom on September 29, October 13 as well as November 18 to discuss the work plan. The videos as well as summaries of the videos were made available on the town’s website and in the Carefree Official Notification System (COINS). After the third and final November 18 public workshop, a draft of the plan was released to the public in a COINS update. Residents were requested to email their thoughts and input to Town Clerk Kandace French. There were no emails received from the public, as mentioned in the information summary. “Obviously, people are hunkered down right now, so it’s a little bit more difficult to have that public engagement, but remember, once again, this is not a static plan, this is a dynamic plan, this is a starting point, and we’ll continue to solicit the input as we move forward in trying to deliver some of these components underneath each one of those pillars,” Neiss said. Before the vote, Peterson said he salutes everyone who was involved in the making of the work plan. “Thanks to all of you for having helped to develop this, and I think it provides an excellent blueprint going in for what we’re going to do.”

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

NEW RIVER from page 1

and now we must begin the effort of collecting 2,000 signatures on our petitions,” Thompson said. “We’re doing fundraising to support the expenses of the initiative process.” The move has been attempted three times, he said. The first try to incorporate the area, he explained, was prior to the 1980s. At the time, citizens were worried about infringement from Phoenix. “The area was quite large then,” he said. “New River has always been the area north of Phoenix before Yavapai County. In those days, Phoenix was 35 miles away. Now it’s much less.” A judge halted the action, and Phoenix took the move to court. Phoenix won, as a judge said the area was rural and not urban enough to become a city. “There was some validity to that, but there were other much more rural areas that had already become cities,” Thompson said. The second attempt was in the late 1990s to stop the encroachment of Anthem, he said. “They fought it tooth and nail,” Thompson said of the area’s residents. “It was very hard to try and overcome the money that Del Webb’s development put together. “They lost in that instance because, by Arizona law, in order for an area to incorporate, they must have the permission of all the cities around them. Phoenix didn’t answer.” Last year was the third attempt.

Once again, the residents asked for Phoenix’s permission, and this time city officials said no. “If you ask a city to incorporate you and they say no, then you can ask them to annex you. They have 120 days to reply,” he said. “If they don’t reply, you have the right from that point on to incorporate without their permission.” Last year, Thompson filed a petition request with surrounding cities like Scottsdale, Phoenix and Peoria. Phoenix and Peoria turned it down. Scottsdale didn’t answer. “We now cannot be controlled by the cities,” he said. “Scottsdale’s nonreply is the same as saying no.” This time, according to Arizona law, Thompson said he can file again and present an affidavit with the county. He has to get enough signatures on the petition to force a vote. “That will be the very first time it’s ever been voted on,” he said. Thompson explained that he believes there are several reasons why the cities have turned it down. He said the importance varies on which city council is in session at the time of the attempt. “It made sense for Phoenix to turn it down. Phoenix had goals to the north,” he said. “Now Phoenix is across the street from us. Back then, it was 35 miles away.” The second time, Del Webb was a “huge opportunity” for Phoenix. The company annexed the entire west side on the other side of the freeway. “They’re up to New River Road now,” he said. “That’s the reason it was turned down.”

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In 2019, Thompson said Phoenix was opposed mainly because New River and Desert Hills are across the street, where there’s a great opportunity for growth. “With all the facilities going in on the east side of the I-17, it’s the next logical step (for growth),” he said. Thompson said it’s important to become a city because of the development in the area. Houses, he said, are being rapidly built in groups. “You get that many houses in the desert and things go wrong,” added Thompson, who has lived in New River since 2000. “We have dirt roads. When a development puts five new houses on a dirt road, for example, there are at least 20 new cars and a bunch of people. The developer doesn’t pay for a dirt road. I have a house on a dirt road. “The roads are not maintained by the county. The builder has no consideration for the fact that there’s dirt roads to get there and to get out. Good people move out here for a reason. They want to get away from the

city. When more people start using the road, the road falls apart. It’s not cheap.” New houses also are another straw into the water table, he said. The residents in New River and Desert Hills are on wells. When new homes come in, that’s less water for everyone. “Plus, we move out here for dark skies, and Phoenix keeps getting closer and closer to us,” he said. “People move here from town and believe they should keep a light on all night. That’s not the preferred thing to have.” The meeting on Wednesday, December 16, is at Wrangler’s Roost in the Stone House, 2500 W. New River Road, Phoenix. At the meeting, they will recruit a volunteer schedule manager, volunteer manager, event planner, notary, a webpage manager/tech and an advertising/public relations specialist. The group will also discuss business outreach for donations, putting up

see NEW RIVER page 6

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NEW RIVER from page 5

signage and fundraising. “In about a month and a half, we gathered 1,000 signatures,” he said. “The area has a population of over 15,000. We only needed 1,500 at a minimum. We thought we would hedge our bets and get more and make sure we’ll qualify for the ballot. “Now we have six months facing us. A lot of people out here don’t understand why development is so heavy, why the well is going dry, why the county of Maricopa is for growth. Most areas, like New River and Des-

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ert Hills, are not for growth.” Thompson and his neighbors want open space for horses, cattle, goats and chickens and limited farming. “We want to remain that way,” he said. “It’s an island in the hills. We want to be a small community without a big budget and no additional taxes. We want to control our own zoning. “If somebody wants to build a Costco, which would be appropriate in some cases, we want to be able to say, ‘No. We’re not that kind of community. We’ll drive to a Costco somewhere else.’ We don’t want to surrender our lifestyle, roadrunners, bobcats and javelina to have city growth. This is a grassroots effort. It’s truly grassroots with the little grass we have out here.” Let New River Desert Hills Decide Political Action Committee Meeting 7 p.m. Wednesday, December 16 Wrangler’s Roost, Stone House, 2500 W. New River Road, Phoenix info@nrdhinc.org

Foothills Food Bank needs paper towels BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

he Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center is in urgent need of paper towels for the needy in the communities it serves. According to food bank Executive Director Pam DiPietro, the extremely busy desert foothills food bank needs paper towels, which are in short supply. “We are asking our neighbors and area businesses to assist us in the acquisition of paper towels for our clients and operations,” DiPietro said. “The impact of the holiday season is adding to inventory shortages, and we need our community’s help.” Foothills Food Bank and Resource Center provides emergency food, financial assistance and other life necessities and resources to individuals and fam-

ilies in the desert foothills, which encompasses a 180-square-mile area that includes Black Canyon City, Cave Creek, Carefree, Anthem, Desert Hills, New River, Mayer, Cordes Lakes, Spring Valley, North Scottsdale and North Phoenix. For more information, call Foothills Food Bank at 480-488-1145. Foothills Food Bank is located at 6038 E. Hidden Valley Drive, Cave Creek, and 34501 Old Black Canyon Highway, Black Canyon City. Donations can be dropped off at either food bank location.

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

Cave Creek district struggles during COVID-19 BY SIERRA POORE Cronkite News

tudents and teachers at the Cave Creek Unified School District returned to in-person classes in early September, joining other schools as petri dishes for how classes could be handled during COVID-19. Weeks later, early results show the struggle—teachers leaving schools over health concerns, students in classrooms led by long-term substitute teachers and parents trying to figure it all out. Two dozen teachers—about 9% of the district’s 263 certified classroom teachers—have resigned or gone on leave, according to Caroline Lynch, the district’s director of human resources. But not all of those were related to COVID-19, Superintendent Debbi Burdick said. That’s the most teachers to have left the district in a semester in all of Burdick’s 12 years as superintendent, she said. “I’m really feeling lucky that we’ve hired

two teachers in the last month,” she said. “Because you’re not seeing a lot of people applying, you actively have to go out to the universities or the communities looking for people, so it is a concern.” The situation in Cave Creek is being repeated in schools across Arizona and the U.S. as administrators, staff members, teachers, parents and—especially—students grapple with how to best learn during a pandemic. They have devised online, in-person and hybrid learning models, each of which has drawn support and criticism. The Mesa Education Association, which represents about 850 teachers in Mesa Public Schools, the largest in the Phoenix area, called for a halt to in-person classes after Thanksgiving because of coronavirus infections. (All students will start remote next semester.) The Flagstaff Unified School District has elected to continue remote learning through at least the end of the second semester on January 5. Scotts-

dale Unified had to shutter five schools for a week because of a lack of teachers. And the COVID-19-teacher battle comes in the midst of a challenging climate for teacher hiring and retention. Cave Creek’s governing board voted to return to in-person classes on September 8, about a month after its official start date of August 5. At a board meeting on August 31, 149 comments were read, with the majority in favor of returning to in-person classes, with students given a choice of in-person or online. That vote, like every decision school leaders have been forced to make because of the pandemic, has had consequences for some students. The substitute situation The situation has become so dire that “we’re running our schools based on the grace of a lot of really good substitute teachers, quite frankly,” said Cadi Angeli, a counselor at Sonoran Trails Middle School.

Even though the substitute teachers at Sonoran Trails are “working their butts off for not a whole lot of pay,” Angeli said. Substitutes, unfortunately, can’t provide “quite the same education as a student would get with a full-time teacher” because they’re not certified. “Kids need continuity, and they know that these teachers are substitutes, so in some cases knowing they have a substitute discounts that teacher’s ability in the student’s mind,” Angeli said. It “isn’t fair but it’s reality.” Without permanent teachers in every position, some of the district’s nearly 5,500 students have been dealing with a lack of clear direction and less classwork, some parents said. Emily Pettee, who has a child at Cactus Shadows High School, said she hopes her daughter’s “able to still be challenged” with the way her classes are set up.

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

Cave Creek council re-elects Smith as vice mayor BY SARAH DONAHUE Foothills Focus Staff Writer

he Cave Creek Town Council unanimously approved David Smith to serve another term as vice mayor at the December 7 regular town council meeting. Councilman Robert Morris nominated Smith. Mayor Ernie Bunch seconded the motion. “I certainly appreciate another term, and I’ll do the best I can for the town of Cave Creek—if nobody else gets nominated and beats me,” Smith said before the vote, drawing a chuckle from the council. Council also voted 4-3 to place a revised site plan for PetSuites on a future agenda. The “yes” votes were cast by Councilmen Ron Sova and Paul Diefenderfer, Smith and Bunch. The “no” votes came from council members Thomas McGuire, Kathryn Royer and Morris. The site plan for the 10,604-square-foot pet resort was unanimously rejected by the council during the November 16 meeting, as

SCHOOL from page 8

“I’m grateful for the subs,” she said. “I’m glad that they’re there, but the quality is not going to be the same.” Burdick said she’s grateful the district has well-qualified substitutes. “Many of them have been teachers in their past careers and have retired and agreed to come back to assist in our classrooms,” she said. “I know some have doctorate degrees, so we’re very fortunate up here in the North Valley to have very qualified substitutes and that they’re stepping in at a difficult time to come in and teach in the schools right now.”

Students’ and parents’ stories Shannon Canales, the parent of a ninth-grader at Cactus Shadows High School and a seventh-grader at Sonoran Trails Middle School, said her children’s education has been challenged. Canales said her middle school child has a long-term substitute for her math class. “They have a nonmath teacher just supervising them in the class,” she said. “So, they’re getting no instruction. They’re get-

residents voiced concerns about traffic safety and noise from barking dogs. “We beat on those people pretty hard about what they were wanting to do, and they did come back with changes,” Bunch said. PetSuites provides boarding, training, day care and grooming services for cats and dogs. While the original PetSuites site plan was rejected, the first reading of the rezone request was approved unanimously during the November 16 meeting. The site plan and rezone request were submitted concurrently by the applicant, Kimley-Horn, on behalf of Carefree 2 LLC and PetSuites. The rezone request seeks to change approximately 2 acres located at the northeast corner of Carefree Highway and 52nd Street within the Carefree Highway Specific Area Plan from desert rural to commercial buffer zone. During the December 7 meeting, the town council unanimously voted to table the second reading of the rezone request for an “undetermined future date,” Bunch said, explaining how this is a “follow on of the previ-

ous item that we agreed to reconsider.” The town council also unanimously voted to approve a bid from Okanogan Trail Construction to build a half-mile-long, 5-footwide nonmotorized hiking trail on the west side of Cave Creek Road within the town’s right of way. Hikers, bikers and horse riders will start the trail at the town hall and finish on Spur Cross Road, according to the action item request. The trail will connect to the Spur Cross Road Trail, which connects to Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area, the Tonto National Forest, the Maricopa Regional Trail and Cave Creek Regional Park. “We’re projecting a January 6 start date and approximately six-week construction time,” said Planning Director Luke Kautzman. The town prepared and advertised the trail proposal to construction companies in the region, and Okanogan Trail Construction was the only company to bid, Kautzman said. The contractor has been consistent in its work with the town, Kautzman said, adding, “We’re actually considering doing a long-

term work agreement.” The expenses for the trail will not exceed $89,507.11, according to the agenda. This price is higher in relation to other Cave Creek trail constructions due to costs involved with removing existing curbs and gutters and installing handicap-accessible ramps, turndowns and aprons, Kautzman said. A metal edging will also be incorporated on the outside of the trail itself, which also brings forth a larger expense, he added. Before the vote, Smith raised concerns about a “sheer wall” on an area where Cave Creek road turns to the right. He questioned if there is enough room to build the 5-footwide trail, also suggesting posting signs to warn drivers about horses and pedestrians. Kautzman responded that there is enough room but added, “What we would have to consider and work through on an engineering standpoint is making sure that whatever is left of that face of that sheer cliff is safe and

ting assignments on Canvas and Google Classroom, and they’re being pretty much told to figure it out.” Although the former math teacher has office hours after school or on weekends to try to help students through the material, “they have absolutely no instruction for their math class,” Canales said. Because of the lack of direction and glitches with the online software the school has been using, Canales said her middle schooler’s grades have fallen for the first time in her life. “It’s added stress for her,” she said. “She’s struggling, and it’s made her depressed. “For the first quarter, her grades were dismal, and it’s not because she didn’t do the work. It’s because they (school officials) weren’t being flexible.” Burdick said students being assigned work without instruction “is not what we would want to be happening,” but some classes only have substitutes temporarily. If teachers are out on quarantine, for example, for being exposed to COVID-19 but are not sick, “they would be actually doing the lesson plans for their classes and even assisting students on the side on Zoom or

having office hours,” she said. Classes with long-term substitutes do receive live instruction, Burdick said, because long-term substitutes are paid additional dollars to do so and “expected to do the lesson planning, the grading and teaching,” she said. Pettee, whose child attends Cactus Shadows, said her daughter has been struggling with honors English because there’s no permanent teacher for her class. She is using the high school’s two online programs because she lives with a family member considered at high risk for contracting COVID-19. She takes her regular classes online and Zooms into her higher-level classes. After her daughter’s honors English teacher “resigned at the end of the first quarter,” Pettee said, the girl missed six days of classroom instruction on Zoom “just because of poor communication between the administration and the new sub.” “I don’t blame the sub, obviously,” Pettee said. “She’s just trying to do her best to help out, but it just was a real miscommunication issue.” Although her daughter’s grades have not

suffered, Pettee said “my daughter has had a lot less work.” In the first quarter, before the teacher left, Pettee said she was “so impressed” by the work her daughter was bringing home. “It really felt much more like a college-level class than high school with the expectations” and focus of the writing, she said. “Now it just seems light.” She said that even her daughter said she “was concerned about being able to move ahead into 11th-grade honors English next year if she doesn’t get the same quality of 10th-grade honors English.” Pettee said the quality of the online classes is “fine, but it certainly isn’t equal to the education that she’d be getting at school.” That lament is echoing across the U.S.

see COUNCIL page 14

The situation for schools in Arizona Before the school year started in August, the Arizona Department of Health Services and county health officials provided guidelines and benchmarks for measuring the spread of COVID-19, which is caused by the coronavirus, to help districts and char-

see SCHOOL page 11

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

SCHOOL from page 10

to the classroom, but listening to the governing board meeting was “so upsetting.” “It was kind of shocking to hear the complete lack of respect for the teacher position,” she said.

that doesn’t have coverage, teachers are country in the 2015-16 school year. also responsible for helping the subs out. “Unless major changes in teacher supply Teachers aren’t “just planning for their or a reduction in demand for additional ter schools determine when and how they classes,” Angeli said. “They’re also provid- teachers occur over the coming years,” the could safely return to in-person instruction. ing lesson plans and curriculum planning report said, by 2020, “300,000 new teachers Those guidelines came at the direction for the classes that need coverage.” of Gov. Doug Ducey, who, in his executive will be needed per year, and by 2025, that order, left the specifics up to Arizona’s The heartbreak of teacher retention Teacher vacancies and retention is number will increase to 316,000 annually.” 230 school districts and 560 charter Angeli, the middle school counselor, said growing as an issue in Arizona. Will Cave Creek teachers be allowed to schools. Some have taken similar ap- students in the Cave Creek district are havAbout 28% of teacher vacancies across return? proaches to conducting classes; others ing a tougher time because teachers have the state remain unfilled while half of them The teacher shortage likely will mean are vastly different. left key positions, such as language, math are filled by teachers who do not meet teachers in Cave Creek who left this school Lori Hart, a journalism and creative and special education. the state’s standard certification require- year will be allowed to return next school writing teacher at Cactus Shadows High “Most of the districts are all looking for ments, according to a September survey year. The district superintendent will ultiSchool, said she believes the district’s gov- those same categories of teachers, and by the Arizona School Personnel Adminis- mately decide. erning board unanimously voted to return they’re impossible to find,” Angeli said. trators Association. Angeli said she assumes the teachers who to in-person classes immediately because Pettee said “you can’t just put any warm A year earlier, in 2019, the association went on leave or resigned will be welcomed parents wanted their children in school. body in to fill these places.” reported about a 21% vacancy rate. back with open arms next year “because we That decision came despite Burdick’s rec“They don’t understand how difficult it Teacher retention in Arizona has been lost some really, really good ones.” ommendation to reevaluate returning to is for the district to hire quality teachers problematic, according to a 2017 Morrison “Some teachers really did a lot in their classrooms at a later time. who can teach these high-level subjects,” Institute report that says 22% of teachers school district for many years, and if “I think they were really affected by par- she said, referring to some parents. “You hired from 2013 to 2015 were not teach- they’re willing to come back, I think the PRM Tax Credit AD - SanTan SuninNews 10 after x 6. 6one year and that 42% district would be more than happy to take ent comments and people going crazy at19.11 can’tMIS79170 just bring in anyone and expect it to ing Arizona home with their kids,” said Hart, who was be the same quality.” of Arizona teachers hired in 2013 had left them,” she said. 19.11 MIS79170 MIS79170 PRM Tax Taxfor Credit AD SanTan Sun News 10 xx 6. 6.within 6 19.11 PRM Credit -- SanTan News 10 6 granted a leave of absence under the federNot having teachers everyAD position also Sun the profession three years. Burdick said teachers who broke their al Family and Medical Leave Act. adds stress to other teachers, Angeli said. A 2016 report by the Learning Policy contract for illness reasons will face no Regardless of the reason, Pettee said, “The teachers have to pick up the slack,” Institute suggested teacher shortages also ramifications. as a parent, she believes that asking the she said. In addition to potentially having are a national issue. It estimates there “We would welcome those people back,” teachers to go back to the classrooms so to give up their prep time to cover a class were 64,000 unfilled positions across the she said.women, and children I want to help feed homeless and hungry men, YES, throughout Maricopa County and qualify for the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit. soon was “really a shame.” Enclosed gift:feed homeless and hungry men, women, and children “The teachers were put in a very difficult wantisto tomy help II want help feed homeless and hungry men, women, and children YES, throughout Maricopa County and and qualify qualify for for the the Arizona Arizona Charitable Tax Credit. Credit. position,” she said. “It’s a failure at the state Every $1 you give throughout Charitable Tax m $800 Maricopa m $400 County m $100 Enclosed is my gift: level because the state should have actuEnclosed is my gift: saves $1 on your taxes! m $50 m to $25 YES, I want help feed homeless and hungry men, women, and children throughout ally mandated or made some decisions Every $1 you give m $800 $800 m $400 m $100 $100 m $________ to help as muchfor as the possible. m m $400 m Maricopa County and qualify Arizona Charitable Tax Credit. rather than leaving it up to each individual saves $1 on your taxes! m $50 m $25 m $50 m $25gift: Enclosed is my school board of five volunteers.” Amount $ _________ m My check is enclosed m I’d by credit card m $800 ________ to to help as as much much as possible. possible. m $$________ help $400 $100 as $50 $25like to pay $______ to help as much as possible. Some teachers didn’t feel safe returning. Card type _________ Card number ___________________________________ Hart, who has a preexisting medical Amount _________Mym m My check check is enclosed enclosed m___________________________ I’d like like to to pay pay by by credit credit card card Exp.$$________ phone number ( ______ ) m Amount _________ My is I’d Thank you! condition, had to get a lawyer involved to Card type _________ Card number ___________________________________ Every $1 you give to the Email address ___________________________________________________ Card type _________ Card number ___________________________________ You will receive a get time off under the Family and Medical Mission helps reduce tax-deductible receipt. Exp.m________ ________ My me phone number ( ______ ______ ___________________________ Please send email updates on the)) lives being changed at Exp. My phone number ( ___________________________ Thank you! your state taxes—by Leave Act so she wouldn’t have to go back Phoenix Rescue Phoenix Rescue Mission. ery $1 v Every $1 you give to the E Email address address ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ up to $800!* Make a Every $1 you give to the Email Mission’s Arizona You will receive to teaching in-person classes. You will receive aa Mission helpsgift reduce you give year-end today! Mission helps reduce Qualifying receipt. Charitable tax-deductible receipt. m Please Please send send me me email email updates updates on on the the lives lives being being changed changed at at tax-deductible m n o MIS79170 Tax Credit AD - Phoenix SanTan Sun News 10 x 6. 6 your state statePRM taxes—by Hart said she thinks she was denied the Name Rescue your taxes—by Organization es 1$119.11 Phoenix Rescue (QCO) Mission. Phoenix Rescue give to the Phoenix Rescue Mission. up$1 toyou $800!* Make Evseayrvoyguiv$r etaxes! Every CodeArizona is 20549. up to $800!* Make aa Mission’s Arizona first time she applied for leave under the Mission’s Mission helpsgift reduce you Address year-end gift today! Qualifying Charitable Charitable year-end today! Qualifying 1993 law because, in part, the district was Name your state taxes—by Organization (QCO) (QCO) Name Organization saves $1eosn! City/State/Zip Code isis 20549. 20549. up to $800!* Make a worried about losing teachers. Code yo ur tax Address tax reduction if filing single Address Mail: Return this slipto with save a check orbig credit on card donation year-end*$400 today! “I’m sure they were panic-stricken,” she orgift as head of household, or $800 Give now your Arizona state taxes! Phoenix Rescue Mission if filing jointly. City/State/Zip City/State/Zip said. “It was a harrowing couple of weeks P.O. Box 6708, Phoenix, AZ 85005 1 *$400 tax tax reduction reduction ifif filing filing single single *$400 Ithis want to help feedor homeless and hungry men, women, and children Every $ 346-3336 YES, Mail:Phone: Return(602) this slip with check or credit card card donation because I didn’t want to have to quit.” Mail: Return slip with aa check credit donation or as as head head of of household, household, or or $800 $800 or e iv throughout Online: www.phoenixrescuemission.org/TaxCreditAZ Phoenix Rescue Mission g Mail: Return thisMaricopa slip with County a check and or qualify for the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit. if filing filing jointly. jointly. u Phoenix Rescue Mission o if y Hart said she and other teachers are dis- www.phoenixrescuemission.org/TaxCreditAZ P.O. Box 6708, 6708, Phoenix, AZ 85005 85005 credit card on P.O. Box Phoenix, Enclosed is mydonation gift: AZ Phone: Phoenix (602) 346-3336 346-3336 saves $1 es! mayed about not being able to teach. Phone: (602) Rescue Mission Every $1 you give Online: www.phoenixrescuemission.org/TaxCreditAZ Online: www.phoenixrescuemission.org/TaxCreditAZ m P.O. $800 $400Phoenix, m $100AZ Boxm6708, U865669643 KD9C4NU UUU A 85005 G1 KT X 2 your tax “We want to come back,” she said. “All of www.phoenixrescuemission.org/TaxCreditAZ www.phoenixrescuemission.org/TaxCreditAZ Phone: (602) 346-3336 saves $1 on your taxes! *$400 tax reduction if filing single m $50 m $25 us love teaching. I’ve been teaching for 17 Online: www.phoenixrescuemission.org/ or as a head of household, or $800 m $ ________ to help as much as possible. if filing jointly. U865669643 KD9C4NU KD9C4NU UUU A A G1 G1 KT KT X X 2 2 FHTaxCreditUUU years, and I want to be in the classroom. U865669643 I miss my students every day, but I didn’t Amount $ _________ m My check is enclosed m I’d like to pay by credit card feel safe coming back.” Card type _________ Card number ___________________________________ www.phoenixrescuemission.org/FHTaxCredit U865669643 KE0C6NU UUU A G1 KT X 7 Hart said she hasn’t personally received Exp. ________ My phone number ( ______ ) ___________________________ Thank you! any backlash from parents for not returning Every $1 you give to the Email address ___________________________________________________

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

First Responder Blood Drive Challenge seeks donors BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

irst responders know firsthand that you can’t wait for an emergency to donate because it’s the blood already on the shelves that saves lives. They’re encouraging the public to donate blood for the First Responders Holiday Blood Drive Challenge this December. Those who do will receive a voucher for a free 10inch pizza at Streets of New York. “With many schools transitioned to virtual learning and businesses in work-from-home situations, 376 blood drives were canceled in November and December alone, resulting in approximately 8,000 uncollected donations,” said Sid Lewis, senior director of donor recruitment for the Vitalant Southwest Division. “Because blood has a shelf life of 42 days, donations given in November can help save lives through New Year’s Day.” Donors of all blood types are needed for the holiday season, especially O-negative, the universal type used in emergencies and

traumas. Donors help first responders like Phoenix Police Officer Santos Robles, who contracted COVID-19 in the line of duty on July 4. A few days later, he passed out due to the lack of oxygen from pneumonia. When his son found him hours later, he was rushed to the hospital with broken facial bones, a punctured lung from a rib fracture and an oxygen level one-third below required levels.

Five convalescent plasma transfusions helped him helped him hold on to life during two hospital ICU stays. Robles finally recovered and was well enough to return to work in late October after fighting COVID-19 for 12 weeks. Now recovered, he donates his plasma to help other people fighting COVID-19. Vitalant continues to test blood and platelet donations for COVID-19 antibodies to

find potential donors who could give convalescent plasma in the future. To have your blood donation dedicated to first responders, simply schedule your appointment at vitalant.org/firstresponder or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825). Blood can be donated from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, December 19, at Lowe’s Home Improvement, 34700 N. Cave Creek Road in Carefree.

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

Amber Wittmers, owner of Adaptive Force Performing Arts in Scottsdale, said the first-time event will primarily feature young dancers and musicians donned in holiday garb, performing seasonal family favorites. “Because there are few in-person events right now, we are offering this fun, colorful, exciting Christmas show so families and individuals alike can share in the Holiday spirit while they help a local charity, HopeKids,” Wittmers said.

“HopeKids provides ongoing events, activities and a powerful, unique support community for families that have a child with cancer or other life-threatening conditions.” To stream the event online and help local children help their peers, visit adaptiveforce.com. The fee is $10 for the four-show telethon. Adaptive Force Performing Arts is located at 32619 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 110, Scottsdale.

Holiday telethon to feature live performances

daptive Force Performing Arts will give the Valley “A Reason for the Season” at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday, December 19. The livestream will feature local children performing at the Cactus Shadows School Fine Arts Center, which is located at 60th Street in Scottsdale.

Daisy Mountain Fire presents its Citizen Fire Academy BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

aisy Mountain Fire & Medical is giving the public the chance to train like a firefighter during its Citizen Fire Academy. During the academy, participants will learn about Daisy Mountain Fire District and how calls are dispatched. They’ll also visit a fire station, see the trucks and try equipment—pull a hose, flow water, see specialized equipment or just observe. Citizens choose their track when they register. The “Observer Track” gives participants an up-close and personal look at what the district does, how it does it and why it does it. Those who select the “Do It Track” will dress in turnouts (firefighting jacket, pants, boots, helmet and gloves), put an air pack on their backs and, in a closely supervised setting, allow participants to do many of these things.

During the Citizen Fire Academy, participants will learn about Daisy Mountain Fire District and how calls are dispatched. They’ll also visit a fire station, see the trucks and try equipment—pull a hose, flow water, see specialized equipment or just observe. (Photo courtesy Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical) The classes start January 21 and run for six consecutive Thursday nights. It’s

open to community members of all ages, but they must be at least 18 years old to

enroll. The cost is $35. To register, visit https://goo.gl/r79fv1.

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

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COUNCIL from page 10

remains intact.” There were no public comments made. “Matt Woodson and Okanogan Trails have done an exceptional job,” McGuire said before voting “yes.” “They did many of the trails in the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area, so we have a history of working with him and his crew and I can vouch for the quality of the work that they have done.” During the meeting, the council was presented with a request to authorize a monument and a time capsule that will be on the town-owned Phoenix Mine Site to commemorate and honor the efforts that led to the acquisition of Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area. The presentation was conducted by Sue Mueller, George Ross and Diefenderfer. “Spur Cross was the very best evolution that I ever was a part of in Cave Creek because it was a grassroots movement and it deserved some recognition,” Ross said. “That’s why I spoke to Sue about it, because my experience with Sue Mueller is she is the best organizer in the town.” Mueller led the PowerPoint presentation to the town council, explaining the efforts

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

made by residents and elected officials to save and preserve the property. This agenda item was for discussion only. The town council will vote on December 21. If the request is approved, a monument made of three layers of heavy steel in the shape of a spur and cross will be placed on the Phoenix Mine Site property near the entrance of Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area, as explained in the presentation. The request for the monument includes a plaque that reads: “With a band of Cave Creek citizens leading the effort, the town of Cave Creek, Maricopa County and the state of Arizona joined forces to preserve Spur Cross Ranch. The spur and cross symbol was the brand of the ranch. The three layers of the brand represent the town, county and state. The rivets holding the three layers together represent the individuals that came together to preserve Spur Cross Ranch.” The proposed monument will stand 6 feet tall and will have a 3-foot-wide gabion base, as stated during the presentation. The monument was designed by Diefenderfer. The time capsule, if approved, will be

adjacent to the monument and will not be opened for 100 years. The contents of the proposed time capsule will include documents containing the history of the land. This history includes the prehistoric Hohokam occupation, the time as a dude ranch, an archaeological summary of investigations conducted, development attempts, preservation efforts as well as a list of citizens who were involved in the land preservation efforts, as mentioned in the presentation. “The monument as well as the time capsule are being created and donated by local artists and residents at no expense to the town,” the action item request states. “It’s impressive,” Bunch said after the presentation. “There’s very few things that we as a group of people and residents of the town can do that will matter 100 years from now,” he said. The proposal also requests a bench in memory of long-time Planning Director Ian Cordwell, who died from cancer complications in December 2019 at the age of 61. The request for the bench was made by the town’s staff, and the expenses will be included in the fiscal year 2020-21 budget,

WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME TO BUY?

Dear Doreen, we really want to buy a house in 2021 to take advantage of the low mortgage interest rates. I want to do it right after the new year, but my husband thinks the rates will go lower and we should wait. Do you have any information that may help me convince him we need to buy now? I really want to move! -Thank you, Roberta Dear Roberta, funny this question gets asked a lot as of late. I’m not a mortgage lender but I do know it is impossible to say with certainty what’s going to happen with mortgage rates, but it’s a safe bet that they’ll stay low for the foreseeable future. How low is low? I have no crystal ball and my prediction is based on the following three signs: 1. The Federal Reserve is promising to hold the federal funds rate (the interest rates banks use to lend money to each other) near zero for at least three more years. This could change, but right now it seems pretty set in stone

according to the action item request. The bench will also be located on the Phoenix Mine Site property. The presentation explained the history of the land and the 103 archaeological sites that lie within the conservation area. Residents and local officials banded together after multiple attempts were made to develop residential and commercial properties on the land that would have disturbed the archeological sites. In 2000, these efforts led to an agreement in which the state of Arizona and Maricopa County agreed to purchase two-thirds of what is known today as Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area from Great American Insurance for $19 million, as stated in the presentation. To help pay for the $6.8 million purchase of the remaining portion of land from the Dreiseszun family, the Cave Creek electorate voted overwhelmingly in favor of taxing themselves at a special election held on September 12, 2000. “It was a monumental effort by a citizens group,” Ross said. “I hope you approve of this. I think it’s the greatest thing Cave Creek has ever done.”

2. The Federal Reserve is buying mortgage-backed securities and indicates it plans to keep it up for a while. This creates a secondary market for mortgage lenders to sell their loans. Oﬄoading loans frees up funds for mortgage lenders to make more loans, and with wider availability of mortgage loans comes lower mortgage rates. 3. The Federal Reserve would also like to see labor market conditions reach levels consistent with “maximum employment” before raising the federal funds rate. This could take up to 5 years. My advice is to start shopping for the best rate by contacting 3 mortgage lenders with 1 of those being the bank you currently do business with plus 2 mortgage brokers. If you need referrals, let us know. We have some great ones. Looking forward to working with you when you’re ready. Thanks for the great question. -Doreen

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AROUND THE BLUHMIN’ TOWN

We will persevere through the pandemic BY JUDY BLUHM Foothills Focus Columnist

few weeks ago marked the 79th anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor. It was a day of “infamy.” The Christmas season brings out the spirit of all that is good, kind, holy and joyful. Pearl Harbor reminds us that, while this pandemic is pretty bad, there were other times in history when the holiday season was very difficult. We Americans are blessed and love our freedoms. Our Constitution was

based on equality and the right to pursue happiness (our dreams and goals). We are an independent bunch of citizens. We do not like to be told what to do. Plenty of WWII vets had dreams and aspirations, too. Maybe a career, college, marriage—or simply staying alive. Events that day in 1941 caused an entire generation to put their plans and desires on hold. The “Greatest Generation” did not hesitate to fight for freedom. Over 407,300 Americans gave up all they had—their lives—so that our country and our allies could stop the

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evil of tyranny. And another 671,000 of our soldiers were seriously wounded, some so severely that their lives were changed forever. That’s over 1 million men and women who gave an incredible sacrifice that has given us our freedom, independence and prosperity today. We can thank them by never forgetting. Some pundits claim Americans have become obsessed with our “individual rights.” Well, where did we get them from? What events caused us to equate freedom with Woodstock? Only kidding, but a survey of high school students equates Woodstock with the “start of individual freedom.” Yikes. And another 50-state survey shows millennials and Generation Z have a “worrisome” lack of knowledge about the Holocaust and WWII, with a stunning 63% not knowing that 6 million Jews were murdered. Can this ignorance be true?

In 1941, the Christmas season was a time of grave concern, anxiety and fear. Throughout periods of history, the mood of a nation, the psyche of its citizens, can be repeated. So here we are. Due to the coronavirus, many folks are afraid to gather with family and friends. Holiday activities and events are canceled.

see BLUHM page 18

OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

Bowers stands tall amid laughable MAGA-teers BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Foothills Focus Columnist

sculptor and artist by trade, a politician by choice, Speaker of the Arizona House Russell “Rusty” Bowers has long been a puzzle: A quiet Mesa father of seven with a big title, an avoider of the limelight, Republican to the core, an arch conservative suddenly this week cast as an archvillain—a coward” and “a traitor”—by the red-hatted MAGA-teers. Why? Because Rusty Bowers, who has helped lead the GOP during parts of four decades, has steadfastly refused to undermine the Arizona Constitution and throw the 2020 election to Donald Trump. For that—and for adding some rare dignity to our state’s Legislature—I’d say Bowers deserves not the steady diet of hatred he’s been getting on social media but a medal. Something with gravitas, like the

statues of firefighters Bowers made with his bare hands-on display at the State Capitol in Wesley Bolin Plaza. I have been to the Arizona Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial often, and always I depart impressed by Bowers’ talent. Now add to that my admiration for the man’s adherence to principle. One way you can judge Bowers’ dignity is by casting his demeanor against the insanity of his attackers, like Kelly Townsend, who has served as the Legislature’s village idiot since 2013, and Phoenix City Council candidate Nicole Garcia, who will likely lose her March runoff election and hopefully return to the political swamp from which she crawled. Townsend egged on the Bowers haters when the speaker shuttered the Legislature after multiple unmasked members met for hours with one-man superspreader Rudy Giuliani. Townsend went next level after the

speaker, as is his prerogative, rejected her requests to convene the House Election Committee for yet another proofless dog-and-pony show pur-

porting to uncover election fraud. Garcia, who appears to have been born incensed, posted Bowers’ cell number on social media. A Townsend follower posted Bowers’ home address and called for a protest outside his house. “I cannot condone this action,” Townsend tweeted, a directive far different than saying, “Are you people nuts? Don’t do this.” Bowers remained silent through the tumult, which isn’t surprising: He’s avoided the press since he was elected in 1992. Bowers’ first legislative goround lasted until 2001. He lost a Republican Congressional primary in 2010, then returned to the Legislature in 2014. How reliably conservative is he? Well, the American Conservative Union has given Bowers a lifetime score of 92. Kelly Townsend? She rates a 90.

see LEIBOWITZ page 18

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BLUHM �� page 16

School is back online. There are people who refuse to wear masks, others comply, some are skeptical about the vaccine, many will refuse it. We are in a collective state of uncertainty—and we are tired of being told how to live our lives. This Christmas is different. But not entirely. It may not exactly be the Christmas of our dreams. We will have a bumpy road to vaccinating the masses. But there is light at the end of the pandemic tunnel, and the promise of a better and healthier 2021 are reasons to trim the tree, hang the lights and toss the tinsel. We have hope. And like those before us, we will persevere. As Winston Churchill said so many years ago, “Fear is a reaction. Courage is a decision.” May the memory of brave men and women who showed resolve in past battles carry us through these holidays and bring us peace, gratitude, comfort and joy. Christmas has not been canceled. Judy Bluhm is a writer and a local Realtor. Have a story or a comment? Email Judy at judy@judybluhm.com.

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LEIBOWITZ �� page 17

This election, Bowers was A-rated and endorsed by the National Rifle Association meanwhile scoring 14% from the Sierra Club and 42% from Planned Parenthood. However you feel about Bowers’ politics, say this much for Mr. Speaker: He does not back down from his principles, even in the face of vicious attacks. “As a conservative Republican, I don’t like the results of the presidential election,” Bowers explained in a statement. “I voted for President Trump and worked hard to reelect him. But I cannot and will not entertain a suggestion that we violate current law to change

the outcome of a certified election. “I and my fellow legislators swore an oath to support the U.S. Constitution and the constitution and laws of the state of Arizona. It would violate that oath, the basic principles of Republican government, and the rule of law if we attempted to nullify the people’s vote based on unsupported theories of fraud.” Bowers ended by quoting Ronald Reagan, who reminded us that in the eyes of the world, America’s peaceful transfer of presidential power is “nothing less than a miracle.” Equally miraculous nowadays? An elected leader who maintains grace and his oath of office in the face of furor.

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KUMA’S GREAT ADVENTURES

Hiking the Bear Sign Trail in Sedona YOU

TOLD BY KUMA AND WRITTEN BY LORRAINE BOSSÉ-SMITH Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

TO BE

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W You Deserve You Deserve to be Comfortable You You Deserve Deserve to be Comfortable hat are you doing this holiday season? My family took me up to Sedona for a hike. We got up super early to try and beat the traffic because lately it has been so congested that it takes over an hour to get to Rock Springs Café, which should be only 18 minutes away from Anthem. Should you be interested in hiking the Bear Sign Trail,

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The family drives to Sedona for an adventure. (Photo by Lorraine Bossé-Smith) Just so you know, you won’t want to hike this. It’s too far. Many people do it to the Devil’s Bridge trailhead, but that is only 2 miles to the trailhead. We continued to the very end of FR No. 152 or about 4.5 miles. Again, you will need a high-clearance vehicle, as it is very rocky and has steps to crawl over. It took us 30 minutes to go just 4.5 miles. Once we passed the Devil’s Bridge trailhead, we were the only ones on the road. That’s the beauty of the trail we selected: It is isolated. The Bear Signs Trail is at the very end of FR No. 152, and there is parking for a handful of vehicles. Only one other truck was parked, so we were going to have this trail to ourselves. The Bear Sign Trail is named for the signs of bear you will see along the trail— aka bear poop! Yes, this area is full of Kuma’s. Did you know my name in Japanese means “bear”? How cool is that? A trail named after me? Dad said these bears are much different: big and scary. Mom didn’t want to run into any, and I was with her. I’m enough Kuma, thank you very much.

Anyway, you actually start on the Dry Creek Trail, and it connects to the Bear Sign Trail. When we went, the creek was empty. Normally, it would be flowing with water that you would need to cross, thus why this trail is rated moderate. However, without the water crossings, it is fairly easy. You just have to deal with a lot of rocks, boulders and sand. Sand can be a nuisance, as you sink into it when trying to walk. Should the temperatures be hot, the sand can burn dog paws, so be careful. Today’s temps were nice: not hot but not cold. The trail is in a canyon, and it follows the creek. The first crossing comes quickly, and at the second one, you need to look for the trail sign for Bear Sign Trail and head left. You will cross the creek over and over again to follow the trail, so my advice to you is to pause each and every time you are in the creek and look for the trail before you continue. In some places, people have placed rocks to mark it, but other times, you need to actually

see KUMA page 21

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

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KUMA from page 20

walk up the creek a bit to find the trail on the other side. Because this trail doesn’t get a lot of traffic, it isn’t as maintained as some. The good news is you are traveling through the canyon, so it is pretty easy to get your bearings. Unlike most Sedona hikes, you don’t get the magnificent

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see KUMA page 22

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

Water was not found in the creek. (Photos by Lorraine Bossé-Smith)

KUMA from page 21

Other than the first section, the trail has a lot of shade. The poor trees looked parched like they needed a good, long

drink of water. Maybe when you go, the winter rains will come and help. The Bear Sign Trail is out and back for a total of 6 miles. It goes for 3 miles to the intersection of the David Miller Trail,

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Kuma and his mom rest on the trailhead. where you could go left and connect with Secret Canyon Trail or continue straight through the Bear Sign Canyon and climb up to a viewing area. We found a spot to have our lunch here and enjoyed the sounds of nature. The couple who had the truck were on their way out, but other than that, we didn’t see a soul. Sedona is always so crowded, so this was a nice change. After lunch, we headed back down. The trail is very gradual, so going in or out is about the same. Mom forgot her hiking pole, but she didn’t need it. If the creek is running,

you would definitely want hiking poles. Make that mental note to check conditions. Both mom and dad got poked by a yucca on the trail. They said it hurt. Thankfully, I stayed clear of them, but I did slide on a rock and bump my hip. That didn’t feel great, but I wasn’t hurt. After miles of sand and rock, we were all a bit fatigued. Mom and I had a little break on the way down before we made it to the car. I was very glad we didn’t

see KUMA page 23

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have to hike any further and could drive back down the road. Lots of folks were walking those 2 miles to their parked cars. I felt bad for them, as they were eating our dust. Between the drive (2.5 hours each way) and hike (three hours total), it was a long day. Dad lifted me up into the truck, and that is all I remember until arriving at home. I got me a big drink of water, then ran around the house be-

cause there is no place like home. I love adventures, but I am always grateful for my bed, food bowl and toys. Life is good. Hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season. Kumaito (Kuma for short) is a multitan Shiba Inu who loves adventures. His doggie mom, Lorraine Bossé-Smith, is the author of nine books who shares his stories. Enjoy Kuma’s blog at bit.ly/3evSrwX or follow him on Facebook at facebook.com/kumathedog or on Instagram at kumaitodog.

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Gary Spaniola brings ’60s-inspired music to Arizona BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

ary Spaniola was in the successful Detroit band Bitter Sweet Alley, when he just decided to call it quits. For 25 years, the new North Scottsdale resident avoided music and instead invented a high-end software system for home automation. “I was in love with that,” he said. “I taught myself computer language and code. That’s how I designed that program.” Now—much like music 25 years ago—he “can’t stand doing that.” Spaniola returned to music recently, releasing “Beatles in ‘G,’” the first single from the upcoming album that will have a ’60s flair; the instrumental guitar album “Entropia” and the classical collection “Lost in Control.” He said he was hesitant to cover a Beatles song, so he recorded a medley as “Beatles in ‘G’” featuring his wife, Erica. She was formerly

signed with Bob Seger’s manager, Punch Andrews. Like all of his music, sales benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. “My main goal is whenever anyone buys the music, I double the donation and forward it to St. Jude’s,” Spaniola said. “I’ve been very fortunate. It’s my way to give back. “People don’t realize if you get 10,000 people giving a dollar, that’s a lot of money. I’ve been doing that for over a year. This one lady on Facebook said, ‘Oh, my gosh. I love the classical one.’ I capped the match at $10,000, but now I’m at $25,000. I may up it to $50,000 and leave it there.” Spaniola was in Bitter Sweet Alley from the early 1980s until he left the band in 1987. When departed, he built a recording studio, where he recorded and mixed groups ranging from the rock band the Romantics to R&B’s Ready for the World. Spaniola had great times playing with

Bitter Sweet Alley was, from left, Dave Gersztyn, Tim Marko, Gary Spaniola, Bill Blake and Rich Nelson. (Photo courtesy Gary Spaniola) Bitter Sweet Alley as well as recording and producing, but it was time for a change. “I worked with, literally, probably, 100 groups,” said Spaniola, who sold his Michigan house to rappers Insane Clown Posse. “It got to the point where I was just bored. I never do anything if I’m bored— even if it means leaving a lot of money be-

hind. Life’s short. At the same time, when I was bored with that, I was teaching myself computer programming. “That’s when I designed software. People were really interested. I was selling it to billionaires who wanted their home controlled.”

see SPANIOLA page 26

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Creativity as a way of life for Armstrong BY SHEA STANFIELD Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

n Jesse Armstrong’s world, “Being creative is not a hobby. It’s a way of life.” The Mesa resident grew up in Norman, Oklahoma, in a home of “creatives.” His mother, Carol, is a professional painter and educator. His dad, Jim, held advanced degrees in biology and environmental chemistry and was an amateur woodworker. Brother Jake is a successful artist and animator. Armstrong was raised with a passion for the arts and a curiosity for how things work. This paired with a strong work ethic has become the engine of Armstrong’s life path. Armstrong earned his BFA in ceramics and sculpture from the University of Oklahoma in 2005. He spent several years as an intern and resident artist with Anderson Ranch Arts Center in Snowmass, Colorado, before heading to ASU in 2010 to

Jesse Armstrong works in his Gilbert studio. (Photo courtesy Jesse Armstrong)

complete an MFA in ceramics. His Arizona contacts offered Armstrong an opportunity to spend several more years as a resident artist at the Mesa Arts Center. Today, he defines his work as “focused on

functional pottery and mixed-media sculpture.” In addition to being a working artist, Armstrong is the lead instructor at the MAC’s ceramics department. He also maintains two working studios—one at his Gilbert home and the other at the MAC. “For a quick shot of inspiration, I take to the mountains on my mountain bike,” he said. The outdoor adventures fuel Armstrong’s current work, which is focused on nature and geology. The quiet, natural world often goes unnoticed in the noise of everyday life. “I fell in love with ceramics as a

medium in my early 20s, a time when I was struggling to find a more traditional career path,” he said. “Working with clay was something I didn’t know I was missing, but once discovered, I couldn’t go back.” He recognized the material was satisfying and meditative, while the technical aspects of the process—firing, chemistry and history—left him eager to learn more. This discovery/learning process drew him to Nerikomi, a layering of contrasting colored clays to create pattern and imagery on the clay’s surface. Thus, his renewed passion for functional pottery. “Creativity is a muscle,” he said. “It is not born to us. It is exercised and developed over time with patience and practice.” Art, to Armstrong, is a form of meditation, a place where he retreats to find calm and quiet. In his case, making art is a way of life—not just a passion. His works have been placed in galleries around the nation. Recently, he has been through an “artistic rediscovery.” He’s transitioning from abstract mixed-media sculpture to functional pottery, the objects that live with us and bring joy each day. To view Armstrong’s work, visit jessearmstrongart.com. For class or workshop information, visit mesaartscenter.com. Contact Arts columnist Shea Stanfield at flowingquill@yahoo.com.

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

SPANIOLA from page 24

When Spaniola moved to Arizona, the specs of his home had to have a room big enough for a recording studio. He calls his music a “gift” or “passion.” It feels good to give back. “My father always said, ‘About 98% of the people didn’t enjoy going to work,’” he recalled. “I thought that’s crazy. If you’re forced into a situation, what are you going to do? I told my kids, ‘The only time you lose is when you quit.’” Spaniola said he’s looking forward to playing his music live when the COVID-19 restrictions ease. “I might get a band together and play two sets—one of some old stuff and songs from that era, and another set of my guitar album,” he said. “I’ll do two cover songs, ‘Beatles in ‘G,’’ and a medley of Stones songs. The rest we’re writing. We’re ready to go.” Gary Spaniola

garyspaniola.com facebook.com/garyspaniolamusic

Musician Gary Spaniola recently moved to Arizona to pursue his love of music. All of the money from sales of singles goes to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. (Photo courtesy Gary Spaniola)

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

Desert Hills offers comfort to those suffering BY FOOTHILLS FOCUS STAFF WRITER

esert Hills Presbyterian Church, 34605 N. Tom Darlington Road, Scottsdale, is presenting a one-hour service of wholeness and healing for those who may find Christmas a difficult season. With masks and social distancing, the group will meet from 4 to 5 p.m. Mon-

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day, December 21. Child care is available upon request by calling Desert Hills Presbyterian Church at 480-488-3384. The holiday season can bring sadness and grief for people grieving a loss. Join the group for a one-hour service of remembrance, reflection and healing called “The Longest Night.”

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Cactus Shadows senior is scholarship semifinalist BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

atianna Blackwell-Scott doesn’t take “no” for an answer. When she was told she had a “slim to none” chance of returning to the gym after tearing her posterior cruciate ligament and meniscus and breaking her tibia, she forged on through arduous physical therapy. “I heard that with other injuries,” Blackwell-Scott said. “I don’t stop when other people tell me to stop.” That type of confident and strength has worked for the Cactus Shadows High School senior. She recently was

named a semifinalist for the 2021 class of the Coca-Cola Scholars Program. “I applied to this scholarship not expecting it,” she said. “The fact that I am one of the top 1,600 is great. I worked long nights to get where I am. I’m very honored.” From a pool of 99,403 submitted applications, only 1,609 high school seniors were selected as semifinalists based on their academic excellence, leadership and service demonstrated in school and community activities. The semifinalists are in the running for 150 college scholarships worth $20,000. “We believe that identifying these

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Katianna Blackwell-Scott will study pre-veterinary medicine at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio. She will also dive for the college. (Photo courtesy Alissa Scott) young leaders throughout the country and encouraging their passion for serving others not only empowers the students but also lifts up those around them,” said Jane Hale Hopkins, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation president. “The Coca-Cola system is dedicated to giving back to the communities

they serve, and the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation is proud to be a part of that commitment.” Coca-Cola Scholars will be named in March and will participate in the Coca-Cola Scholars Leadership Development Institute facilitated by program alumni.

see KATIANNA page 33

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

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YOUTH

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

MTA hosting kids workshops and classes

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

he Musical Theatre of Anthem has scheduled upcoming in-person workshops and classes.

Film study • Rehearsals: 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays January 13 to February 17; ages 13 to 17. • Cost: $100/participant (10% sibling discount). During the �ilm analysis class, students will watch and analyze classic �ilms as well as learn the history of cinematography and �ilm.

Winter Improv Squad Jr. • Rehearsals: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Mondays January 18, January 25, February 1, February 8 and February 15; ages 8 to 11. • Tech: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. February 22. • Performance: 5:30 p.m. March 1. Limited to 10 participants. • Cost: $175 (includes T-shirt). Winter Improv Squad • Rehearsals: 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. Mondays, January 18, January 25, February 1, February 8 and February 15; ages 12 to 17. • Tech: 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. February 22. • Performance: March 1 6:45 p.m. call; 7:30 p.m. show. Limited to 10 participants.

The Foothills Focus Online at www.TheFoothillsFocus.com

• Cost: $175 (includes T-shirt). These troupes will learn the art of improvisation, comedic timing, character creation and physical comedy. They will rehearse original comedy sketches and do performance improvisation for an audience. Weekly acting classes • 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Tuesdays; all levels welcome; ages 12 to 17. Punch cards can be purchased for 10 classes (does not need to be consecutive) for $75 or drop in for $10/class! The $10 drop-in payment can be made in cash at the time of the class.

Spring Minis • Rehearsals: 4:15 to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, March 2, March 9, March 16, March 30 and April 13; ages 3 to 5. • Performance: 4:45 p.m. April 20. • Cost: $100. MTA Minis class will focus on various aspects of an MTA show—vocal technique (projection, enunciation, tone, blending as a group); dance skills (coordination, synchronization); showmanship; and basic theater terminology. Skills will culminate in a performance for friends and family at the end of each session. All classes and workshops will be held at Musical Theatre of Anthem, 42201 N. 21st Drive, Suite B100, Anthem. Register online at musicaltheatreofanthem.org. Payment is due upon registration, and a 10% sibling discount is available. Space is limited. For MTA’s safety and sanitation procedures, visit its website. Musical Theatre of Anthem is an award-winning, nonpro�it theater company. The mission of MTA is to develop youth and adults within the �ield of performing arts while enhancing their intrinsic creativity and brokering their vast talents.

YOUTH

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

Norterra teen turns challenge into charity BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

t age 13, Ayden Schure was presented with a challenge—celiac disease, an immune reaction in which people can’t eat gluten, the protein found in wheat, rye and barley. If any or all of the three proteins are consumed, the immune system will damage the small intestine. She didn’t allow the disease to get her down. Instead, she combined her hobbies—cooking, causes and collecting—to help others. Ayden founded Macarons That Matter on July 4, about two years after her diagnosis. She sells and delivers macarons to customers in Scottsdale, North Phoenix, Peoria and Cave Creek and donates all the proceeds to charity. The prices range from $9 to $96, depending on the �lavor and quantity ordered. “Macarons quickly became my favorite

thing to bake—and to eat,” said Ayden, 15. “They are inherently gluten free. I also have very strong opinions about our world and what we can do to change it for the better. My love for activism and macarons fused to form Macarons That Matter.” Ayden credits her parents—Adam and Anat Schure—with encouraging her. “She ran with it,” Anat said. “She’s so creative. She created her website, her logo, and the next thing we knew, she was ready to go live on July 4. “My husband and I have helped her with the business side of things, but she’s been learning and doing it all on her own.” Ayden experiments with �lavors to arrive at the ones to sell. She changes the menu monthly. For December, she’s offering candy cane, eggnog, gingerbread, jelly donut—a nod to her Jewish heritage—and Mexican hot chocolate. “I’m always trying out new ways to stir the batter or new ways to bake the macarons,” she said. “I like macarons because

they’re inherently gluten free. I like the taste of them. I thought they tasted really good. They’re different.” The project has been a learning experience for Ayden. “I learned a lot about money and how to handle money and look at bank statements,” said Ayden, who has raised more than $5,000 for charity so far. “I also learned how to bake in large quantities.” Ayden, who lives in the Norterra area, has been attending ASU Prep Digital since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Once the pandemic eases, she’ll head back to Cactus Shadows High School. She inherited her parents’ philanthropic nature. “I have been standing up for what I believe in,” she said. “Fighting for causes I think are right. I wanted to use my banking skills to fund nonpro�its and charities.”

Ayden Schure, who lives in the Norterra area, doesn’t ship her macarons, but she will deliver to Scottsdale, North Phoenix, Peoria and Cave Creek. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

Macarons That Matter macaronsthatmatter.org

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YOUTH

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

Distance plays a key role in relationships BY JADYN FISHER Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

istance. It’s such a simple word that means something slightly different to every person walking this earth. Distance can be a positive thing and a negative thing. It can change relationships between friends and family. This year, distance has meant a lot of opposing things—safety, fear or even a new beginning. The meaning is a never-ending cycle of change, and for many, that word holds a lot of meaning and emotion. However, a single personal experience does not de�ine a word; its de�inition is up to the individual. Let’s start off with the of�icial de�inition

of distance: “an amount of space between two things or people.” Very clear and precise, right? Sometimes that space is small, like from your bed to the door, but sometimes it’s from your front door to your grandparents’ house, living across the country. This might be the go-to example of distance previously, but now, there is a new type of distance on people’s minds. The most prevalent distance in this day and age is being advised to stay 6 feet apart from others. With the COVID-19 pandemic, 2020 has been quite the year. Social distancing is a new term for many and is crucial during these “unprecedented times.” It is the reason many families haven’t

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been able to see one another—being so close but too far to be able to embrace is much more dif�icult than the peace of mind that comes with a FaceTime call. Especially in the holiday season with numbers rising, this distance is dif�icult. As said previously, distance means something different for everyone. Although it is an important one, social distancing is not the only distance affecting daily life. When thinking about distance and being far away from loved ones, military families also come to mind. I will never be able to fully understand the struggles that come with having a family member in such a fear-ridden environment, but my heart goes out for those that do. Even imagining how much it impacts the lives of those living with that as their reality, their experiences with distance are so individual to each family. Having limited communication between loved ones and not being certain if they are safe in bed at the end of the night must play a powerful

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role in relationships and raising a family. This just further shows that distance can be something different for everyone. Nobody can fully experience what others go through unless they are in the same situation. Distance is such an essential part of life that not many people think about. No two people experience distance in the exact same way, making it a subject with immense depth and perspective. Recognizing these little details in day-to-day life and feeling emotions attached to them are what make us human. Whether it’s being far away from loved ones, having a minimum distance due to COVID-19, or being in a military family, nobody can truly experience what those around them feel. The way people de�ine words and experience life is so diverse, so being mindful and considerate is the least we can do for each other during this time. Jadyn Fisher attends Sandra Day O’Connor High School.

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YOUTH

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | DECEMBER 16, 2020

KATIANNA �� page 28

A National Merit Scholarship Semi�inalist, Blackwell-Scott scored a perfect 36 on her ACT and a 1470 on her PSAT. She’s a varsity/club diver and volunteers at the National Charity League, Mom’s Pantry, Teen Lifeline and Puppy Love. “The National Charity League is a mother-daughter leadership and charity organization that holds meetings once a month,” she said. “There’s a yearly requirement for hours. Through my school, honor society and National Charity League, I have volunteered more than 900 hours since the eighth grade.” Time management isn’t a problem for Blackwell-Scott. She said she studies everywhere from the car to the break between school and diving “A few times I pulled all nighters,” she said. “As long as you stay focused, it’s not that hard to balance.” She is planning to attend Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio. The college, which is 45 minutes outside of Columbus, is a division three school. Blackwell-Scott will dive in college and study pre-veterinary medicine. She’s an animal lover who has three dogs and a “big cat.” “Katianna represents CCUSD’s best and brightest,” said Dr. Debbi Burdick, Cave Creek Unified School District’s outgoing superintendent. “As an exemplar at Cactus Shadows High School, we could not be more proud of her accomplishments.” Blackwell-Scott is the daughter of Alissa Scott and the late Phoenix Police Officer Beryl “Wayne” Scott, who died in the line of duty on September 10, 2002. Alissa was six months pregnant. Blackwell-Scott said her parents instilled this strength in her. “My dad was a police officer, and my mom always told me not to give up,”

she said. “At times I didn’t like it. I just wanted to stop, but she said I had to keep going. I’m grateful they instilled the confidence in me to keep going.” Scott said she is proud of her daughter. “When people ask me about how proud I am of Katianna, I am extremely humbled and often speechless over all that she has overcome and what she has accomplished,” she said. “Because when you look at her ac-

complishments on paper, sometimes it’s dif�icult to realize she’s just a sweet and charismatic teenager who’s just trying to do her best. Nothing gives her more joy than volunteering and helping out others in any way she can. To state I am extremely proud sometimes doesn’t feel like it’s enough. Words can’t really cover what my heart feels for all of her accomplishments and for the amazing young lady she is becoming.”

at 480-898-5631 or christina@timespublications.com

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