East Valley Tribune: Gilbert Edition - Feb. 12, 2017 by Times Media Group

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BY COLLEEN SPARKS Tribune Contributing Writer

Students in the East Valley are strumming guitars, belting out festive tunes on trumpets and singing passionate melodies in mariachi ensembles to celebrate Mexican culture.

But the culture isn’t limited to those of Mexican-American heritage. People of all backgrounds are enjoying learning playing lively songs.

Mariachi songs have different themes including love, loss and patriotism. The culture is attracting children, teens and adult students alike to classes and performances in Mesa, Chandler and Tempe.

Students say learning to sing in Spanish, bow a violin and pluck the strings of a guitarron – a guitar-like acoustic bass instrument – are ways to honor and learn more about the culture.

Mariachi music sings out about Mexican culture

Students from Mariachi Sones del Desierto get ready to perform at the group's ribbon-cutting and open house in Mesa.

Several teenagers wearing mariachi trajes –uniforms of long black skirts and pants and vests bearing silver horse designs – played violins, guitar and guitarron at a ribboncutting and open house Feb. 4 at the nonprofit Desert Sounds Performing Arts on West 1st Street in Mesa. Audience members standing outside on the grass in front of the building beamed as two little girls dressed in trajes held hands and sang a song in Spanish.

BY JIM WALSH Tribune Staff Writer

Shanna Parker of Mesa was beaten unconscious by her pimp, who murdered one of his other prostitutes.

Vanessa Compton of Mesa was stabbed in the chest by her pimp and was unconscious in a hospital for three days. She was injected with heroin on a different occasion by her own father, who manipulated her to participate in a variety of crimes to support her drug addiction.

Desert Sounds helps students in need get instruments for school bands and orchestras.

“It’s what I grew up listening to, mariachi

The students are part of Mariachi Sones del Desierto, which means Desert Sounds Mariachi. They were part of a celebration of the group moving to a new, larger office space.

fight their way out of ‘the life’ to help others

Parker and Compton somehow managed to not only survive, but to escape the seamy underworld known on the street as “the life,” which is not much of a life at all.

The years of pain are behind them. Now, they are on a mission to save as many young women from human sex trafficking as possible. “Victim survivors” such as Parker and Compton are doing everything possible to reach prostitutes, speaking at diversion programs and group homes, even being referred by the police because of their unique ability to reach sex trafficking victims through

a regrettable common experience. The message imparted by Parker and Compton focuses on the same themes: prevention and hope.

The hope is more help for women caught up in “the life” and a far more enlightened

“victim-centered” approach from the Mesa police and other East Valley departments.

The focus now is on helping these young women, not arresting them, although some arrests are still necessary to separate the

COVER STORY

See MARIACHI on page 4

(Larry Mangino/Tribune Staff Photographer)

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Goodbye to Mesa’s colonnades City wants to resurrect the true history of Main Street

BY GARY NELSON Tribune Contributing Writer

The heavy colonnades that line Main Street in downtown Mesa have been there so long it could be easy to think they existed when the city center was coming together more than a century ago.

In fact, they are of mid-1980s vintage, the product of one of Mesa’s innumerable efforts over the years to keep its downtown alive.

Truth be told, though, downtown languished for years after the city spent $1.2 million to build them. It has taken the combined impact of light rail, two downtown universities, a $100 million arts center and dozens of entrepreneurs to remove “languishing” from the list of adjectives that could accurately describe the neighborhood.

Far from promoting downtown development, the city believes the colonnades actually have hurt. They obscure Main Street’s storefronts, mar the historic architecture of a dozen or more buildings and, in fact, are something of a drain on the city budget. Therefore, the colonnades’ days are numbered.

Getting rid of them – or at least starting to get rid of them – is a key goal of a new Mesa program. The city will provide money for downtown business to redesign and rebuild their facades.

Jeff McVay, the city’s manager of downtown transformation, detailed the program during a City Council study session in January.

Mesa will spend $100,000 in federal Community Development Block Grant money to help eligible businesses design new or restored facades that don’t include the colonnades. The city hopes to win $450,000 in combined federal and tribal gaming grants to fund actual construction.

The application process is open through February. Businesses can apply online at mesaaz.gov

McVay said facade improvement programs in other cities – he cited Escondido, California, and Nashville, Tennessee – have transformed aging retail areas and generated private investment totaling more than 10 times the outlay of public funds.

Further, he said, the University of

Wisconsin found that 24 such programs around the country led to increased sales, more pedestrian traffic and private investment.

Mesa has wanted to get rid of the colonnades for a long time, McVay said. But it’s been a “chicken-and-egg” problem. Mesa doesn’t want to take down the structures until adjacent businesses commit to redoing their storefronts, and the owners won’t commit to that until the colonnades come down.

Having grant money in hand removes that problem. There’s enough at the outset to finance 10 to 15 designs, and McVay said those owners then will be committed to following through with actual construction.

“We expect more interest than there is money for design,” he said.

A city-sponsored committee will weigh applications based on a set of criteria in which colonnade removal will be a major factor.

Points also will be awarded to owners who want to restore or enhance the original architectural character of their buildings.

“We have 14 properties along Main Street between Country Club (Drive) and Mesa Drive that, if it were not for the colonnade, would be eligible for the National Register of Historic Places,” McVay said.

Many buildings in the Main Street

corridor are more than 100 years old.

The colonnades’ chief purpose, McVay said, is to provide shade. Where they’re torn down, property owners will be asked to provide awnings or other shade structures. Owners who use grant money for facade work also will be required to maintain those facades for 10 years in lieu of forfeiting the funds.

Mayor John Giles and other council members unanimously backed the program.

Because Mesa owns the facades, Giles said, “We have skin in this game. We own this stucco box that sits in front of downtown Main Street. We are responsible for maintaining that. … If it falls down and hits somebody, that’s our fault.”

The grant money will be capped at $50,000 for each individual facade. It won’t stretch far enough to remove the colonnades from the 60-plus properties where they were installed.

But McVay believes businesses that don’t participate in the initial phases will be spurred to act on their own as they see neighboring improvements.

He also believes downtown’s authentic historic charm will do more than the colonnades ever did to draw people.

“The historic preservation of downtown – the character that comes with that – people just gravitate to those places,” McVay said.

(Larry Mangino/Tribune Staff Photographer)

Colonnades in downtown Mesa were built in the 1980s and were intended to provide shade. Now, they may be removed.

MARIACHI

and other Hispanic music,” said Fatima Oliveros, 17, of Mesa, a violin player in the Desert Sounds group. “My parents kept encouraging me to do it.

“It’s the gigantic ball of culture,” the Dobson High School senior added.

Fatima’s sister, Lupita, 12, plays violin. Her brother, Francisco, 15, plays guitarron in the ensemble.

“My dad plays guitar and he was once in a mariachi group with my mom,” said Francisco, a sophomore at Dobson High School. “I just thought, why not?”

Julie Gilchrist of Gilbert is proud of her son, Troy Gilchrest, 16, who plays guitar in the Desert Sounds group.

Though mariachi music is not part of their heritage, Gilchrist said, “He’s having a ball.”

About 60 students in elementary, middle and high schools participate in Desert Sounds’ mariachi ensemble, which began about five years ago, said mariachi program director Chris Donlon. He’s also an orchestra teacher in Mesa Public Schools.

Most of them practice every Saturday at the Desert Sounds office in Mesa, while 11 students participate in the satellite mariachi program Friday afternoons at Hartford Sylvia Encinas Elementary School in Chandler.

Donlon and other music teachers share techniques for trumpet, violin, guitar, guitarron and vihuela, which is a small, guitar-like instrument with higherpitched strings than a guitar. Students also get vocal training as all of them sing in the group. The teachers have trained

in Las Vegas with professional group Mariachi Sol de Mexico.

“It’s a combination of opera music, folk music, classically trained musicians that come together,” Donlon said of mariachi bands. He fell in love with mariachi music when he heard a group from Tucson perform at a music educators’ workshop several years ago, and called it “highly energetic.”

Donlon has been a violinist and music teacher since 1993. He also teaches a before-school mariachi program for fifth and sixth graders at Bush Elementary School in Mesa as part of a school district offering. He’s starting a beforeschool mariachi group at Bush for fourth graders on Feb. 15.

Experts say it’s hard to trace exactly when mariachi music started. Its roots are in Mexico, but this genre of music is performed around the world now.

The sound of the stringed instruments and mariachi’s oldest rhythms stem from Mexico’s colonial times, from 1519 to 1810, according to the website of Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, the nonprofit record label of the Smithsonian Institution.

The music called mariachi developed as early as the 1850s in ranches and small towns in western Mexico, the website said.

Hartford Sylvia Encinas Elementary School general music teacher Chris Nguyen heads the after-school mariachi Desert Sounds club with first through sixth-graders at Hartford. She’s Vietnamese but loves learning about other cultures.

“I just love how there’s so much variation,” Nguyen said. “Each region of Mexico has their own twist to it.”

Pedro and Melisa de la Rosa of Chandler said they wanted their daughters – Araceli, 8, and Analisa, 7 – to learn more about their Mexican heritage. The two girls sang a duet accompanied by the teen musicians at the Desert Sounds event.

Pedro de la Rosa said “there aren’t a lot of programs like this.”

“We feel like where we live, they’re not really too exposed to our culture as much as she and I were,” he added.

Jorge Rodriguez, 12, of Mesa, enjoys playing trumpet in the Desert Sounds group.

“My family is all Mexican and they wanted me to be in this group,” Jorge said. “It just makes me happy.”

Violinist Noely Simancas, 14, of Mesa, said she wanted to join the mariachi group after seeing a performance at a church.

“I grew up speaking Spanish so I can translate well,” Noely said. “It’s more of

an extra activity that makes my mother proud.”

Kaitlyn Smith, a 17-year-old senior at Highland High School in Gilbert, is Irish-American but joined a mariachi group in Las Vegas originally before moving to the Valley. She sang a solo and also played violin in the Desert Sounds performance and said she likes the “stories” in mariachi music.

“I love the style,” Kaitlyn said. “It’s beautiful.”

Tempe High School orchestra director and fine arts department chairwoman Jill Osborne also loves diving into other cultures. She heads the Mariachi de Tempe ensemble, a group of 17 students who meet during orchestra class.

The Tempe High group performs at school and community events including with Tempe Police officers. The high school ensemble includes students

UPCOMING MARIACHI CONCERTS

• The Desert Sounds mariachi group, Mariachi Sones del Desierto, will perform at 12:55 and 1:20 p.m. Feb. 25 at the Mesa Public Schools SciTech EXPO at Skyline High School, 845 S. Crismon Road in Mesa.

• Bush Elementary School’s fifth- and sixth-grade Bush Mariachi group will perform at 12:20 p.m. Feb. 25 at the Mesa Public Schools SciTech EXPO at Skyline High School, 845 S. Crismon Road in Mesa.

• Tempe High School’s Mariachi de Tempe will perform at the City of Tempe’s Hayden’s Ferry Days festival at 10 a.m. Feb. 26 at the Tempe History Museum, 809 E. Southern Ave.

• Kyrene Middle School Mariachi

Ensemble will perform at the KMS Open House and Electives Showcase at 6 p.m. Feb. 27 at the school, 1050 E. Carver Road in Tempe.

• Kyrene Middle School Mariachi Ensemble will perform in its own concert at 6:30 p.m. March 29 at the school, 1050 E. Carver Road in Tempe.

• Tempe High School’s Mariachi de Tempe will perform with members of the Tempe Police Department and MusicaNova Orchestra at a concert at 7 p.m. April 24 at Tempe High, 1730 S. Mill Ave.

• ASU Mariachi Ensemble will perform at 7:30 p.m. April 24 at Evelyn Smith Music Theatre at ASU, 50 Gammage Parkway in Tempe. All concerts are free to the public.

(Larry Mangino/Tribune Staff Photographer)

Director Chris Donlon coaches Araceli and Analisa de la Rosa in preparation for their duet.

See MARIACHI on page 13

(Jill Hanks/Tempe Union High School District) Students in Tempe High School’s Mariachi de Tempe ensemble show off their new trajes, or uniforms.

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Crafters can compare ideas, share at CraftHack

The monthly meeting of crafters at Gangplank in Chandler is coming up Monday, Feb. 13, from 6-8 p.m. CraftHack is a chance for crafters to get together, work on their projects and share their interests. For Valentine’s Day, Vesna Taneva-Miller will demonstrate how to make transparent heart pockets.

Gangplank is at 250 S. Arizona Ave., Suite 2, Chandler. – TRIBUNE STAFF REPORT

Win a chance to write an ADOT sign message

The Arizona Department of Transportation is inviting people to write their own quirky safety messages for overhead signs.

The winning slogan of the Safety Message Contest will appear on signs statewide in April. Messages can be submitted at azdot.gov/signcontest until Feb. 19.

ADOT began placing unconventional safety messages on overhead signs more than a year ago to address impaired driving, distracted driving, speeding, aggressive driving and other dangerous behavior.

– RALPH ZUBIATE, TRIBUNE EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Public meetings planned for Chandler utility rate changes

Two meetings are planned for the month of February to discuss Chandler’s plan to adjust utility rates.

The meetings, held at the City Council Chambers, are open to the public and scheduled for 6-8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13, and 3-5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28.

For more information on the changes visit chandleraz.gov/utilityrates.

– RYAN CLARKE, TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER

City of Chandler hosts ‘Science Saturday’

“Sneaky science” is the theme of Chandler’s next Science Saturday. Interactive demonstrations will include Chandler technology companies in partnership with Arizona State University and the University of Arizona. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 18. More information is available at chandleraz.gov/default.aspx?pageid=584.

– RYAN CLARKE, TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER

Desert hiking for beginners offered at Usery Mountain

Usery Mountain Regional Park is conducting a beginning seminar on desert hiking today, Feb. 12, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the park, 3939 N. Usery Pass Road, Mesa. Admission is $6 per vehicle.

This hike on a level one-mile scenic trail will cover what to carry, what to wear and how to hike safely in the desert.

For more information, call 480-984-0032 or go to maricopacountyparks.net/events/ beginning-desert-hiking292/.

– TRIBUNE STAFF REPORT

Red Cross in search of blood donors

The American Red Cross is searching for blood donors in the East Valley this winter.

Those who donate from now to Feb. 26 are eligible for a $5 Amazon Gift Card delivered via email.

To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Donor App, visit redcross.org or call 1-800-733-2767.

– RYAN CLARKE, TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER

victims from dangerous situations with their pimps, or to motivate them to seek services.

“I don’t want you to think about me. I am OK, I made it out. I want you to think about all of the other Shannas,” Parker said. She said traffickers do everything possible to manipulate victims into doing things they don’t want to do to survive. The punishment for failing to cooperate is severe beatings, such as one that resulted in the death of Parker’s unborn child. Parker’s pimp would beat her with an unusual weapon, a bar of soap, to inﬂict severe pain without damaging the goods he would sell over and over again to customers.

was even less fortunate. She and her unborn child were murdered in Oklahoma City. Parker testified at his trial, contributing to his conviction.

“It’s God’s grace,” Parker says about her survival. “He had beaten each of us unconscious numerous times. I could have been gone at any time.”

(Larry Mangino/Tribune Staff Photographer) Shanna Parker works for the state Department of Economic Security. She once was a prostitute. "I am OK, I made it out," she said about her past.

Parker’s roommate, another prostitute,

Parker now works for the state Department of Economic Security in the IT Department. She spends weekends and evenings running her charity, Angels Go to Work. She talks to young women in group homes, hoping to turn them away from prostitution and toward a better life.

“The best way to protect them is to give them life skills, self-esteem and selfworth,” Parker said.

Compton said her addiction to cocaine was her path to prostitution. She said she learned to trade sex for property as a teenager. Her addiction was so profound

that she did not change her life, even after she was stabbed twice in the chest by her pimp and hospitalized for six days.

“I almost died,” Compton said. “It went right back to it. It was all I knew.”

Finally, she got hooked up with a john who was a drug cartel member. He persuaded her to drive a stolen car to Mexico. She was stopped by police near the Mexican border and ended up in the Pima County Jail.

“The jail was full of prostitutes. There was no help to get them out of the life,” Compton said.

But the arrest on a felony charge got Compton’s attention. She said she started counseling other prostitutes to improve their lives. Eventually, Compton got into a rehabilitation program and has stayed clean for nine years. She said helping others is an integral part of her therapy.

“Unless you have lived it, you don’t understand it,” Compton said.

She also credits the Starfish Mentoring Group, run by Catholic Charities, for helping her to stay on the right path in life. She speaks to prostitutes who attend a court-ordered diversion program in Phoenix.

“It’s a personal mission to get every

woman I meet out of the life,” Compton said. “I want to show them that there are a lot of resources if you want to get out of the life today.”

Compton said prostitutes get caught up in a vicious cycle. They disassociate from their emotions to do their job, often turning several tricks a night. They keep doing it for fear of beatings from their pimps or worse.

“The rehab helped me. If it wasn’t for the arrest, I probably would have never gone to the rehab,” Compton said.

Sgt. Domenick Kaufman, who heads the Mesa Police Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit, said police have changed to a “victim-centered” approach in attacking human trafficking.

Kaufman’s unit now focuses on arresting johns and traffickers, while helping prostitutes escape to a better life. Kaufman said some arrests are still required to protect victims from abusive pimps, and an arrest sometimes motivates a victim to re-examine her life.

“We’re moving more toward finding an effective way to intervene,” Kaufman said.

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

Medical marijuana dispensary issues recall

A medical marijuana dispensary in Mesa is recalling four of its edible food products after a packing issue.

Flourish Cannabis is recalling its marinara pasta sauce, hot sauce, honey Dijon mustard and Sriracha ketchup. The recall was issued after the dispensary didn’t meet county packing requirements. Peyton Curry, Flourish’s founder, said there is “nothing wrong or dangerous about the food.”

– RYAN CLARKE, TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER

Man convicted of insurance fraud in Chandler crash

A man who said he had crashed his car in Chandler while exiting the freeway was convicted of fraud after a video told a different story.

Robert Atlas reported that he had crashed his Corvette while exiting Interstate 10 at Wild Horse Pass in Chandler. He was paid $61,465.11 by GEICO for the loss of his Corvette. It was later discovered that Atlas had actually raced his Corvette Stingray in an event at Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park. He lost control of his car during the race and crashed into the concrete barrier. The crash was captured on a Go-Pro video and uploaded to YouTube.

In late January, Atlas pleaded guilty to insurance fraud. He was sentenced to two years’ supervised probation and was assessed $1,560 in court costs, and he had to repay the money to GEICO.

– RALPH ZUBIATE, TRIBUNE EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Gilbert man arrested in underage-sex sting

A Gilbert man was arrested in an attempt to have sex with a 12-year-old girl, police say.

From Jan. 24 to 27, Clayton Garrett Smith had multiple conversations with an undercover Chandler offi cer who he believed to be a 12-year-old girl.

During their discussions, Smith allegedly agreed to pay $60 to cuddle, strip and touch the girl sexually, police said.

On Jan. 27, when Smith went to meet the girl, he brought with him the money, condoms and a stuffed toy panda bear to give her as a gift. Smith, 21, has been charged with child prostitution.

EV nursing programs among the best in Arizona

Registerednursing.org has selected the 10 best RN programs in Arizona, and two schools in the East Valley ranked high.

Mesa Community College’s program ranked No. 1 on the list. The website called MCC “both rigorous and fl exible in accommodating nursing students.” Chandler-Gilbert Community College’s program ranked No. 8.

The website reviewed schools that offer an Associate in Nursing (ADN/ASN), BSN, or Direct-Entry MSN degree.

– TRIBUNE STAFF REPORT

Charges filed in burglaries at Mesa assisted-living facility

Residents of Fellowship Square Assisted Living Facility in Mesa reported a stolen wedding ring to local police on Jan. 24, leading to the discovery of dozens of burglaries.

Arthur Michael Sesate, 23, admitted his theft of the ring to police.

Sesate was an employee at the facility beginning in November and started stealing jewelry in early December, police say. He admitted stealing 27 pieces of jewelry and selling them for more than $5,000.

Police charged Sesate with burglary.

– RYAN CLARKE, TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER

Authorities release info in ASU harassment cases

The ASU police department has released descriptions of two men reportedly involved in sexual harassment incidents on ASU’s Tempe campus.

The man who allegedly groped a woman near McAllister and University on Jan. 29 is described as “a white man of medium build in his 20s, about 5’9” tall with dirty blonde hair, facial hair and glasses.”

A man who allegedly exposed his genitals to a woman in the Tyler Street Parking Garage is described as “a white man of medium build with dark hair in a ‘buzzed’ cut and a pronounced gap between his teeth.”

If you have more information, contact the ASU police department.

– RYAN CLARKE, TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER

Coyotes-ASU arena deal dead, but team still looking in East Valley

BY JIM WALSH Tribune Staff Writer

The Arizona Coyotes missed the net in their first bid to move closer to their fan base by building a new arena in Tempe when Arizona State University announced it had no plans to pursue a development agreement with the team.

In November, ASU entered into an exclusive negotiating agreement with the team to produce a development plan on a 58-acre site that would be part of ASU’s landmark sports facilities district. The arena would have been built at the present site of the back nine holes at ASU’s Karsten Golf Course, across from Tempe Marketplace.

But the Coyotes’ ambitious plan, which always was contingent on a publicprivate partnership, failed to develop much traction in the legislature, where it was opposed by West Valley interests.

The Coyotes said they started searching for a new arena after Glendale’s City Council terminated a lease considered unfavorable to the city.

“ASU has no intention of proceeding to sign a development agreement or an option to lease or any other agreement

with the Coyotes,” ASU said in a brief statement released by a spokeswoman.

But Sen. Bob Worsley, R-Mesa, held out hope for a bill that would help the Coyotes finance an arena at a different, undisclosed site. A bill he sponsored would allow the team to keep half of new tax revenues generated by the arena or other facilities, such as a hotel, to supplement the financing.

Worsley did not return calls seeking comment, but he told another media outlet that SB 1474 would be amended to work at any site, rather than just the ASU sports district. It directs the state treasurer to hand over half of proceeds from the transaction privilege tax, until 2055, to the newly established “community engagement district,” which would arrange for the construction and operation of facilities.

The Coyotes had promised to kick in about $200 million of the cost of a $400 million arena. The bill is scheduled to go before the Senate Commerce and Public Safety Committee on Feb. 13.

Anthony LeBlanc, the president of the Coyotes, has been adamant in his support for a new arena in the East Valley that would be closer to the Coyotes’ fan base. The hope is that attendance would

improve if the new arena was more conveniently located than Gila River Arena in Glendale.

“Our team is 100 percent focused on securing the Arizona Coyotes’ future in the Valley. As we’ve said many times, the City of Glendale simply is no longer an option for the team.

“The Coyotes’ focus now is on creating the one of the most taxpayer-friendly arena projects in the country – an arena

and surrounding development that pays for itself, that creates no new taxes and that doesn’t use a single penny of existing general fund revenue. We will continue to pursue options, partnerships and locations where such a massive economic development boost will be welcomed and supported,” LeBlanc said in a statement released by the team. – Reach Jim Walsh at 480-898-5639 or at jwalsh@timespublications.com.

State shuts down alternative teacher certification program

BY ADRIANA BECERRA Tribune Contributing Writer

Amid a growing teacher shortage in Arizona, the Department of Education has effectively shut down one teacher certification program by giving it unreachable requirements.

The American Board is an alternative teacher certification program established by the U.S Department of Education. It operated in 12 states, including Arizona until Jan. 31.

American Board Communication Specialist Jennifer Burkhardt said she was shocked when the department gave the company requirements they knew couldn’t be achieved.

“We realized that there was not going to be a way,” Burkhardt said. “The way we operate, we could not provide these things … it was not going to be plausible.”

On top of the requirements for the American Board, Burkhardt said Arizona required teachers in the program to pass a state exam, an English Immersion Training course and a Constitution course.

The Board then placed additional requirements, like in classroom support and post-program remediation, requirements that Burkhardt said was impossible for an online certification program to offer.

“In every other state we operate in, we don’t have the hoops that the Arizona Education Board gives us,” Burkhardt said.

With the teacher shortage in Arizona at an all-time high, Burkhardt wonders why the Arizona Department of Education would want to shut down a teacher certification program.

“One of our main purposes as an organization and a nonprofit is to help

communities have enough teachers and not face a teacher shortage,” Burkhardt said. “For us to be told we’re not needed anymore was definitely a shock to me.”

The Department of Education would not comment on the new requirements.

School districts in the East Valley, though aware of the shortage, aren’t too badly affected.

District spokesman Terry Locke of Chandler Unified said that there have been no vacancies, save for the unexpected illness or injury.

“Historically, it has been our practice to select candidates who have both educational coursework and supervised classroom experience prior to certification,” Locke said. “While the majority of our teaching staff are trained in this traditional university model, we do support an internship model which is a little less traditional path.”

Jill Hanks, Tempe Union District spokeswoman, also said her district has not felt the effects of teacher shortage.

“We can attribute some of that to having ASU and its strong teachers’ college in our backyard, coupled with a strong and long partnership with the university, and also to the quality of the programs and environment in our A-rated district,” Hanks said.

Kyrene held teacher job fairs for the 2017-2018 school year.

Still, according to a 2015 report by the Arizona Department of Education, 62 percent of Arizona schools reported having opening in their schools.

Programs like the American Board were trying to fill this gap.

“Despite the fact that Arizona needs over 200 teachers, the Department of Education don’t want or they don’t need us,” Burkhardt said.

(Tribune News Service)

The Arizona Coyotes and ASU briefly touted this arena design for a new hockey home. It was to be built in the space currently occupied by the back nine of the ASU Karsten Golf Course.

Stamp show will fill Mesa center with hobbyists

BY RYAN CLARKE Tribune Staff Writer

Stamp collecting is a hobby that brings people of all cultures, incomes and backgrounds together – at least according to Kevin Lesk, chairman of the Aripex Stamp Show in Mesa.

“A lot of people are coming to the show from Europe, the East Coast and all over Arizona,” Lesk said of the event this weekend. “There are wealthy people who pursue this hobby, but you don’t have to be wealthy to succeed in and enjoy it.

“It’s really for everybody, and I’m always encouraging people to start collecting.”

Lesk’s father was the one who encouraged him to start collecting, a moment in his childhood that shaped his passion for the hobby.

“My father collected – I’m the youngest of four children – and he introduced it to my sister and brother, too,” he said. “I was intrigued more by designs, while my brother liked ones with animals.”

Lesk said his father didn’t really know the value of the stamps he had collected over the years, and it turned out the stamps Lesk liked – those with unique designs – were relatively valuable.

From there, Lesk has maintained interest in the hobby and first attended the Aripex show in 2012. He took over as chairman of the show in 2014.

Aripex is staged by the Arizona Federation of Stamp Clubs, a nonprofit that promotes stamp collecting.

Lesk said he hopes the show runs smoothly, given all the details that go into it.

“There’s five convening societies, three of the five societies are local groups,” he said. “We have over 248 exhibit frames and each frame has 16 pages of stamps, covers, or postcards. Each exhibit is competing for awards and each exhibit tells a story.”

That storytelling aspect, combined with the cultural melting pot that the show has become, is what Lesk loves most about the hobby. The history of it is something that shines through the exhibits, too.

Stamps ranging from history of the

soccer World Cup to Hindenburg passenger mail will be on display at the show. These windows into history, in the form of stamps, make the show that much more special for Lesk and the participants.

“It really runs the gamut of these historical events,” he said. “Each display tells a story. What makes this exhibit unusual is the rarity of what we display.”

Attendees of the show can bring in their stamps, covers and postcards for a free appraisal, as long as they pay the $5 admission fee. Native American attendees with their tribal card receive free admission to the event.

Aripex 2017 runs from Feb. 17-19 at the Mesa Convention Center, 263 N. Center St. The $5 admission price covers all three days of the event.

Support The Arts In Chandler!

Restaurants help by donating a percentage of their proceeds to the Chandler Center for the Arts on that day. You help by eating at one or more of the participating restaurants.

Funds from Eat Your Art Out Chandler will go to support various programs at the Center including the Free Summer Concert Series and the Connecting Kidz programs.

For more information: www.ChandlerCenter.org/EAT

Media Sponsors

Tuesday, February 28 th

Brickyard

Floridino’s

Nando’s Mexican Cafe

Rock Lobster

LA SALA Tequila Cantina

Serrano’s Mexican Restaurant Stone + Vine Urban Italian

(Tribune News Service)

An envelope called the Dawson Cover will be shown at Aripex. It sports not only a rare combination of a United States and Hawaiian stamps of 1851, it is the only one that includes a 2 cent Hawaiian Missionary stamp.

(Larry Mangino/Tribune Staff Photographer)

Araceli and Analisa de la Rosa were encouraged to join the mariachi group by their parents so they could learn more about their Mexican culture.

whom are of Mexican heritage.

Two New East Valley Communities Opening Early 2017!

of Mexican-American, Cambodian, Chinese, African-American and Burmese backgrounds.

“One of the star singers speaks Burmese and English and now she sings in Spanish,” Osborne said. “I love that. “It’s a beautiful music tradition.”

Also in Tempe, Kyrene Middle School offers two mariachi classes, one for sixth-graders and one for seventh and eighth-graders. Altogether, they have more than 30 students. Sometimes, the mariachi students perform with a school orchestra, said Julio Contreras, Kyrene Middle School director of orchestras and mariachi.

“It’s important because of the whole culture aspect,” said Contreras, who was born in Mexico. “Some of these kids grew up listening to mariachi music, their parents listened to the music.”

Contreras said most of the students in the sixth-grade mariachi ensemble are in the school’s dual-language program. He added that the mariachi class complements their language skills as the mariachi groups sing songs in Spanish and English.

Mariachi music is also a passion for Michael Smith at Arizona State University. He’s the faculty associate for the ASU Mariachi Ensemble, a night class with about 25 students, many of

Smith’s mother is Mexican-American and he started playing violin in a mariachi group as a child in California.

“It’s pride, it’s emotion; mariachi music is life,” he said. “It’s a way to identify ourselves.”

The ASU Mariachi Ensemble plays an end-of-year concert in April.

“With the current climate and everything that’s been going on with immigration, we treat Hispanics with a negative attitude and that’s so wrong,”

Smith said. “The music’s great but the people are even better.”

Students also learn about Mexican culture in the Mariachi Viva ensemble.

About 15 students, mostly from Mesa, practice with instructors two nights a week at Carson Junior High School in Mesa, said Charlie Morales, director of Mariachi Viva, a non-profit organization.

“Some of our kids go on to play with professional groups,” Morales said.

The Mariachi Viva group, made up of fifth to 12th graders, has performed at weddings, anniversary parties, quinceañeras, and at Mesa Arts Center’s Dia de los Muertos Festival.

The group wants to raise enough money to attend the Tucson International Mariachi Conference in April. Anyone who wants to make a donation to help the students pay for the trip can visit gofundme.com/mariachiviva.

Community

Siblings help older consumers get the right computer

BY RACHEL EROH Tribune Contributing Writer

Ironman Refurbished Business

Computers has provided refreshed and customized computers to individuals and businesses in the Valley for six years now.

Now, thanks to word of mouth and news coverage, seniors have reached out to the Chandler-based company for help with finding computers and learning how to use them.

“They would actually cut our articles out of the paper and give us a call,” said Linda Chan, who co-owns the company with her brother Ken. “Many seniors, when they call, don’t have any computer background.”

Ken and Linda started off by teaching computer classes to young kids. The duo will seek out the best computer to meet a senior’s needs and even give them a tutorial on how to use the programs and internet.

They do not currently teach classes for senior citizens to help them with their computer skills.

“We have been asked to teach classes for senior citizens like we do with children, and it’s definitely something to consider,” Linda said.

But for many seniors, they recommend a computer that can be used for basic internet browsing with a webcam to Skype family on.

Linda said she often suggests a

CHANDLER

Hamilton High takes first at academic competitions

Hamilton High School teams took home top honors at recent academic competitions, including the We the People state championship and the Williams Field Academic Decathlon Invitational Tournament.

Hamilton’s We the People team won the school’s second state championship in the tournament at Mesa Community College and will compete against 49 other teams

computer with an extended keyboard and a wider screen for a clearer picture.

“A lot of times, people don’t know the difference between a consumer laptop and a business laptop, and we do,” Ken said. “That’s where we come in.”

IRBC also specializes in helping small and medium-sized businesses, schools and individuals.

They focus on repurposing businessgrade Dell and HP models. They then can customize computers to fit the customer’s needs, Ken said.

“We ask the clients a lot of questions

at the 30th anniversary We the People National Finals at the National Conference Center in Washington, D.C., April 21-24.

The Academic Decathlon team competed against 10 East Valley schools and, in addition to the first-place trophy, captured 45 individual honors, nearly half of the available awards.

The team will next face Regional Competition the first weekend in February.

ASU club hosting health fair for homeless, uninsured

The Arizona Tzu Ching Compassion Relief Club at ASU is hosting a health fair

to figure out what exactly they need their computer for,” Ken said.

Ken and Linda are very flexible when it comes to meeting with clients to figure out what they need for their computer, Ken said.

“We can either meet them at our storage warehouse or we can meet them wherever they want it to be,” Ken said. “It can be at a Starbucks, McDonalds, their house or wherever.”

Bill Sands, a 62-year-old retired electrical engineer from Ahwatukee, recently bought one laptop and one

for the homeless and uninsured Saturday, Feb. 18, in Chandler.

Participants will receive health screenings, pediatrics, vision exams and dental exams.

The will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Tzu Chi Foundation, Phoenix Service Center, at 2145 W. Elliot Road in Chandler.

Local First Arizona issues

Chandler Small Wonders map

Chandler’s Small Wonders map has been released by Local First Arizona.

The pocket-sized guide to local restaurants, retailers and experiences is the 10th released by the local business group.

desktop from IRBC.

“I use mine to do the kinds of things that engineers do all day,” Sands said.

“Geeky things.”

Sands said that Ken was very helpful with showing his wife how to use the laptop.

“He showed my wife all the things that made this laptop slightly different than those she had been previously exposed to,” Sands said.

Ken did not badger Sands or his wife to decide on a computer or to make a purchase, Sands said.

“Ken was not trying to play the role of high-pressure salesman,” Sands said.

Sands said that he plans to recommend IRBC to his friends when they are looking for a computer.

Now, the IRBC duo plans to expand their business nationwide, while also working to maintain their personal touch that they have as a smaller business, Ken said. The prices for customized laptops and desktops start at $299 and include one-year limited warranties, lifetime technical support and free delivery or shipping on orders throughout the Phoenix metro area and nationwide.

IRBC also offers discounts on bulk orders of five or more computers.

Ken and Linda provide a different element because of their background as educators and their one-on-one interactions with their clients, Linda said.

“We always want to go the extra mile for our customers,” Linda said.

Other maps include Central Phoenix, Phoenix’s Arcadia neighborhood, Tucson, the Verde Valley, Gilbert, Glendale, Scottsdale, Tempe and Mesa.

Chandler fifth safest city in nation to raise a family

Chandler was recently ranked among the safest major cities nationwide to raise a family, according to GoodCall.com. Chandler ranked No. 5 out of 40 cities. Chandler got its high ranking mostly due to its education. In a population of

(Tribune News Service)

Tom and Peggy Yost explore their new computer with one of the owners of Ironman Refurbished Business Computers, Linda Chan.

260,000, 93 percent of Chandler residents have a high school diploma, ranking the city No. 7 in that category among big cities.

In addition, more than 43 percent of Chandler residents have bachelor’s degrees, ranking it No. 15 out of the top 40 big cities in that category.

The cities that rounded out the top five safest to raise a family included Henderson, Nevada; Plano, Texas; Boston; and Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Seton Catholic Prep senior is Coca-Cola semifinalist

Nicole Gehret, a senior at Seton Catholic Prep, has been named a 2017 Coca-Cola Scholars Program semifinalist.

The Chandler resident is among 1,900 high school seniors nationwide in the running for 150 college scholarships worth $20,000 each. Semifinalists are selected based on academic excellence, leadership and service demonstrated in school and community activities.

Gehret is a National Hispanic Scholar and has been on the honor roll every semester at Seton. She has enrolled in a variety of honors and Advanced Placement courses, including five AP courses for spring semester.

GILBERT

Gilbert Police recruiting at two events this week

The Gilbert Police Department will be at events in Tempe and Glendale this week to find new recruits.

On Wednesday, Feb. 15, the police will be at the ASU Spring Career Fair. The event will take place at the Tempe Campus in the Memorial Union on the Second Floor from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The police also will be at Recruit Military’s Greater Phoenix Veterans Job Fair on

Thursday, Feb. 16, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event will be at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale.

The Gilbert Police Department’s next testing cycle will occur in late April. Applications will be accepted from Feb. 20 until March 19. For more information, go to gilbertaz.gov/ departments/police/opportunities.

Gilbert homeschoolers at national STEM event

Veritas Homeschoolers will compete at the national Future City event Feb. 18-21 in Washington, D.C. They are among 43 regional teams competing.

The Future City competition is a projectbased learning program that encourages middle school students in grades 6 to 8 to use STEM to imagine, research, design and build a city 150 years in the future. The Veritas Homeschoolers team won Arizona’s competition on “The Power of Public Spaces” by converting Quito, Ecuador, into a more livable and walkable city.

The team includes Adriana Baniecki, Jeremy Graunke, Evan Nail, Madyison Nichols, Sarah Towey, and Edward Wang. They are coached by teacher Kathryn Graunke and engineering mentor Matthew Graunke.

Two Gilbert students named top Arizona youth volunteers

Emery Miller, 18, and Lauren Basye, 13, both of Gilbert, were named Arizona’s top two youth volunteers of 2017 by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a nationwide program honoring young people for outstanding acts of volunteerism.

Emery, a senior at Perry High School, and Lauren, a seventh-grader at ASU Preparatory STEM Academy, will each receive $1,000, an engraved silver medallion and an all-expense-paid trip in early May to Washington, D.C.. They will join the top two honorees from each of the other states and the District of Columbia for four days

of national recognition events.

Yixue Cheng, 17, of Chandler, a senior at Basis Chandler School, was named a finalist for the honor.

Spring Classic Boutique to benefit school kids

Trilogy at Power Ranch is conducting its annual Spring Classic Boutique on Friday, Feb. 17, from 4-7 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 18, from 9 a.m. to noon at 4369 E. Village Parkway.

The boutique will feature handcrafted items made by residents, and drawings will take place for baskets filled with items from local merchants.

Proceeds will benefit charities and underprivileged children from the Gilbert and Higley School Districts.

For information, call 480-219-1344.

MESA

County seeks public input on health, 3-year plan

Maricopa County Department of Public Health is focusing on health priorities for its three-year plan, and the public is invited to comment.

At meetings around the county, the public will be presented with the top 10 health priorities from this year’s assessment

and will be asked to whittle them down to the top three to five for 2018.

The next meeting is Thursday, Feb. 28, from 5-7:30 p.m. at Mesa Community College’s Navajo Room, 1833 W. Southern Ave.

High school senior hosts course on gun safety

Matthew Clement, a senior at Arizona Agribusiness and Equine Center Early College High School, is hosting a gun safety course at Rio Salado Gun Range, 3960 N. Usery Pass Road in Mesa, on Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 4:30 p.m.

The class is free and Clement recommends it for teenagers and young adults who are unfamiliar with or want to learn about guns.

RSVP at https://goo.gl/EoL9kL.

EAST VALLEY

Dutch Bros., United Food Bank team up on Valentine’s Day

On Tuesday, Feb. 14, all Dutch Bros. locations in the East Valley will donate $1 to United Food Bank for every drink sold during that day.

In the past two years, Valentine’s Dutch Luv Day has provided enough funds for more than 234,000 meals.

Why Viagra Is Failing Men

Soaring demand expected for new scientific advance made just for older men. Works on both men’s physical ability and their desire in bed.

By Harlan S. Waxman Health News Syndicate

New York – If you’re like the rest of us guys over 50; you probably already know the truth… Prescription ED pills don’t work! Simply getting an erection doesn’t fix the problem” says Dr. Bassam Damaj, chief scientific officer at the world famous Innovus Pharma Laboratories.

As we get older, we need more help in bed. Not only does our desire fade; but erections can be soft or feeble, one of the main complaints with prescription pills. Besides, they’re expensive… costing as much as $50.00 each

Plus, it does nothing to stimulate your brain to want sex. “I don’t care what you take, if you aren’t interested in sex, you can’t get or keep an erection. It’s physiologically impossible,” said Dr. Damaj.

MADE JUST FOR MEN OVER 50

But now, for the first time ever, there’s a pill made just for older men. It’s called Vesele®. A new pill that helps you get an erection by stimulating your body and your brainwaves. So Vesele® can work even when nothing else worked before.

The new men’s pill is not a drug. It’s something completely different

Because you don’t need a prescription for Vesele®, sales are exploding. The maker just can’t produce enough of it to keep up with demand. Even doctors are having a tough time getting their hands on it. So what’s all the fuss about?

WORKS ON YOUR HEAD AND YOUR BODY

The new formula takes on erectile problems with a whole new twist. It doesn’t just address the physical problems of getting older; it works on the mental part of sex too. Unlike the expensive prescriptions, the new pill stimulates your sexual brain chemistry as well. Actually helping you regain the passion and burning desire you had for your partner again. So you will want sex with the hunger and stamina of a 25-year-old.

THE BRAIN/ERECTION CONNECTION

Vesele takes off where Viagra® only begins. Thanks to a discovery made by 3 Nobel-Prize winning scientists; Vesele® has become the first ever patented supplement to harden you and your libido. So you regain your desire as well as the ability to act on it.

In a 16-week clinical study; scientists from the U.S.A. joined forces to prove Nitric Oxide’s effects on the cardio vascular

system. They showed that Nitric Oxide could not only increase your ability to get an erection, it would also work on your brainwaves to stimulate your desire for sex. The results were remarkable and published in the world’s most respected medical journals.

JAW-DROPPING CLINICAL PROOF

New men’s pill overwhelms your senses with sexual desire as well as firmer, long-lasting erections. There’s never been anything like it before.

SUPPLY LIMITED BY OVERWHELMING DEMAND

“Once we saw the results we knew we had a game-changer said Dr. Damaj. We get hundreds of calls a day from people begging us for a bottle. It’s been crazy. We try to meet the crushing demand for Vesele®.”

VESELE® PASSED THE TEST

“As an expert in the development of sexual dysfunction, I’ve studied the effectiveness of Nitric Oxide on the body and the brain. I’m impressed by the way it increases cerebral and penile blood flow. The result is evident in the creation of Vesele®. It’s sure-fire proof that the mind/body connection is unbeatable when achieving and maintaining an erection and the results are remarkable” said Dr. Damaj.

HERE’S WHAT MEN ARE SAYING

• I’m ready to go sexually and mentally.

• More frequent erections in the night (while sleeping) and in the morning.

• I have seen a change in sexual desire.

• Typically take 1 each morning and 1 each night. Great stamina results!

• An increased intensity in orgasms.

• My focus (mental) has really improved… Huge improvement.

• Amazing orgasms!

• I really did notice a great improvement in my ability.

HOW TO GET VESELE®

THE SCIENCE OF SEX

The study asked men, 45 to 65 years old to take the main ingredient in Vesele® once a day. Then they were instructed not to change the way they eat or exercise but to take Vesele® twice a day. What happened next was remarkable. Virtually every man in the study who took Vesele® twice a day reported a huge difference in their desire for sex. In layman’s terms, they were horny again. They also experienced harder erections that lasted for almost 20 minutes. The placebo controlled group (who received sugar pills) mostly saw no difference.

AN UNEXPECTED BONUS: The study results even showed an impressive increase in the energy, brain-power and memory of the participants.

This is the first official public release of Vesele® since its news release. In order to get the word out about Vesele®, Innovus Pharma is offering special introductory discounts to all who call.

A special phone hotline has been set up for readers in your area; to take advantage of special discounts during this ordering opportunity. Special discounts will be available starting today at 6:00am. The discounts will automatically be applied to all callers. The Special TOLL-FREE Hotline number is 1-800-755-9521 and will be open 24-hours a day.

Only 300 bottles of Vesele® are currently available in your region. Consumers who miss out on our current product inventory will have to wait until more become available. But this could take weeks. The maker advises your best chance is to call 1-800-755-9521 early.

Three of ‘Lucky Seven’ rescued dogs still need homes

BY SHELLEY RIDENOUR Tribune Staff Writer

The “Lucky Seven” dogs rescued from an elderly Mesa woman’s home shortly before Christmas have the right nickname.

The dogs – six shih tzus and one Pekingese – were saved by Ruby Ranch volunteers on Dec. 18, said Pam Heine of the Ruby Ranch Pet Rescue and Sanctuary. Heine said the dogs were “severely neglected” and were living in “unthinkable conditions.” The 93-yearold owner wasn’t able to care for the dogs, she said.

Just three of the seven dogs remain available for adoption.

Heine, president and founder of Ruby Ranch, said the dogs were victims of “one of the worst cases of neglect” that seasoned animal rescue workers had ever seen. The animals’ fur was filthy and caked in waste and their tails were matted to their legs, which prevented them from walking. Some had their eyes and mouths stuck shut. Most of the dogs had sores that were discovered “after pounds of dirty, tangled fur” were

removed. The dogs’ nails hadn’t been clipped in so long that “they had spiraled around and embedded in the paw pads, causing bleeding and infections.”

Despite their living conditions, Heine said the dogs were friendly and had gentle dispositions.

Still available for adoption is the Pekingese, named Leah. She suffered from a prolapsed vagina, caused by tumors, Heine said.

She’s had surgery and is healthy now and ready for a home.

“She’s super, super sweet and would

unable to eat after groomers trimmed her and got her mouth open, because her jaw muscles were too weak to work.

“But her jaw muscles are strong now and she loves to eat,” Heine said.

The other dogs that have already been adopted had maladies ranging from bladder stones to poor teeth to severe malnutrition.

love to be in a home as the only pet,”

Heine said. Leah is about 3 years old.

Kaiyah, a 10-year-old shih tzu, is also awaiting a new home. Her eyes were matted shut and she was nearly blind, Heine said, but some of her vision has been restored. She does suffer from dry eye and will require eye drops for the rest of her life.

The sickest dog the group rescued, Ivana, is also ready for adoption. She’s a 15-year-old shih tzu and is blind. Her eyes and mouth were matted shut when she was found, Heine said. Ivana was

Anyone interested in adopting one of three remaining members of the “Lucky Seven,” or any other rescue animal, should go to the Ruby Ranch website, rubyranchrescue.org, for information. An adoption questionnaire can be requested by emailing info@rubyranchrescue.org. The rescue phone number is 602-5269960.

Adoption fees range from $50 to $250 per dog.

Ruby Ranch specializes in taking in dogs that have been deemed unadoptable because of age, medical or behavioral conditions. All dogs rescued by the organization’s members are cared for in foster homes throughout the Valley. The rescue group does not operate a shelter.

– Contact reporter Shelley Ridenour at 480898-6533 or sridenour@timespublications.

photo: Pierre Larue Low Rider Slippin’ Into Darkness Cisco Kid Why Can’t We Be Friends?

(Tribune News Service)

Little queen featured in Super Bowl commercial is all kid

BY SRIANTHI PERERA Tribune Staff Writer

At 9 years old, Alena Mascarenas has a vision board filled with plans for the future.

This year, however, the Gilbert girl’s schedule has been decided for her. In November, following a glittering spectacle in Anaheim, California, Alena was crowned National All-American Miss Jr. Pre-Teen 2016-2017. She is taking things in stride, despite being featured in a Super Bowl commercial.

The student at Eduprize in Gilbert beat hundreds of candidates from across the United States to earn the title for her age division in the National American Miss Pageant Program. Pageants are held for girls ages 4 to 20 in six age divisions. According to its literature, the program searches for “Today’s Girl” and “Tomorrow’s Leaders.” Judges look at academic status, poise and personality on stage and during an interview, as well as communication skills and community service.

“It was so exciting,” she said of the evening when she became queen.

Alena confessed that she was feeling nervous, but she addressed an audience of about 400 people dressed in a long, fuchsia pink gown with a dainty floral bodice and said, “I want to be a marine

biologist.”

The daughter of Tres and Gina Mascarenas – he’s in the U.S. Army and stationed in Louisiana and she’s a real estate agent –will spend the year traveling the country, hoping to inspire other young girls to become leaders in their communities.

Trips are planned to New York, Georgia, Washington, California and Washington, D.C. Commercial advertising agencies have also gotten wind of her good looks and charm.

Alena was featured in an “Alice in Wonderland”-themed commercial for Fulton Homes that aired during Super Bowl LI. She also participated in a television pilot based on history, which is to air on local networks in March.

Being in the limelight is “cool,” but Alena also loves spending time with animals. A highlight of her life was swimming with dolphins in California during a family vacation. She adores the

two dogs at home, Dolce, the Yorkshire Terrier, and Sasha, the Australian cattle dog.

Alena volunteers at the Tempe-based animal shelter, Lost Our Homes, where she has made 17 blankets for the rescued canines.

“I get to walk the dogs. I get to read books to them. I’ve really been saving up my money to adopt a dog, but we have to wait because I already have two dogs,” she said.

Alena has also helped train service dogs for Phoenix

Children’s Hospital, fundraised for a veterans’ homeless shelter in Phoenix and donated her Halloween candy – some that she likes and some that she doesn’t – to the veterans.

Gina Mascarenas is happy with her daughter’s increased sense of responsibility.

“She was always spunky and outgoing and she always loved people. Since being part of National American Miss, I think

it’s made her a lot more confident,” she said. “It definitely brings a different aspect into the kid’s life.

“She volunteers a lot more. She’s a lot more aware of people in need, animals in need, and is really setting goals for herself.”

While Mascarenas is mindful that some of Alena’s auditions and the trips will eat into her school schedule, Alena shrugs it off.

“I catch up easily and I always get my homework done, like that,” she said, snapping her fingers. “I used to be super afraid of math because it used to be super hard for me. But now, I’m getting it.”

Alena also plays softball and participates in gymnastics and community theater.

“She stays busy,” Mascarenas said. “She’s such a good little leader when she gets with the girls; it’s so fun to watch.”

While Alena looks forward to her year of “queening,” she has also perfected a vision that doesn’t require a glittery gown.

“My big plan is to become a marine biologist, take my mom to college and then I move to California. I’m going to build a two-story Beanie Boo store by the ocean,” she said of a toy that’s the successor to Beanie Babies.

“I’ll have a bell. If people ring it four times, that means animals are in danger. If it rings twice, it’s a customer for Beanie Boos.”

Mesa firefighters saw through jet in training exercise

BY ALYSSA HESKETH Cronkite News

The Mesa fire department recently received a new training tool: a 1994 Gulfstream Jet. They promptly started tearing it apart.

Firefighters sawed and cut makeshift doors in the jet’s metal as part of an extrication exercise at Falcon Field Airport. The exercise was part of the Mesa Fire and Medical Department’s emergency training.

The training helps determine if the tools they use on smaller planes or in car accidents would work on a larger aircraft in case of an emergency, according to Battalion Chief Rich Kochanski.

“In this situation, we are trying to simulate that the doors will not open, and that we are having to manually extricate folks through a hole that we make in the side of the fuselage,”

Kochanski said.

For two hours, firefighters sawed through metal around the plane’s windows to cut out escape areas that could be used to evacuate passengers.

Kochanski said the crew learned that using the saw was difficult and labor-intensive. Cutting through the material of an aircraft takes time. More equipment and manpower is necessary.

“This (training) is a way for us to refine those skills and know which specific tool to grab so we can do a better job,” he said.

Business owner Artur Niewiadowski, who refurbishes old planes as a hobby, donated the aircraft. Niewiadowski owns Vision Air America, Inc., a Goodyear aviation company, and a mixed-martial arts gym in Avondale.

He purchases aircrafts to refurbish and sell off as parts, and donates what is left to local governments for emergency training.

“Training preparation is key to

everyday life, especially when it comes to saving a life,” Niewiadowski said.

(Srianthi Perera/Tribune Staff)

National All-American Miss Jr. Pre-Teen 2016-2017 Alena Mascarenas plans to visit Washington, D.C., and New York in the fall.

(Alyssa Hesketh/Cronkite News)

Mesa Fire and Medical Department firefighters cut out the windows of a Gulfstream Jet during a training exercise.

LEGACY BUSINESS

Little jewelry shop is a fixture in downtown Mesa

BY RALPH ZUBIATE Tribune Executive Editor

“This is our cute little store,” Michelle Skaarup says, welcoming a visitor to Dickson’s Jewelers.

“We’ve been here forever. I can’t imagine Dickson’s not in downtown Mesa.”

The store is one of Mesa’s cornerstones, at the same location at 54 W. Main St. since 1949.

“We’ve seen so much change,” Skaarup said. “They’ve narrowed the road, they’ve widened the road, put in landscaping, took it out, put in light rail. None

of it affected us. We have such loyal customers.”

She and her husband bought the store in 2008 from her aunt and uncle, Robin and Tom Landry, who had purchased it from its original owners in the ’80s.

Skaarup herself had a job at Dickson’s when she was a teenager.

“I used to work here when I went to Westwood High School,” she said.

“Later, when my aunt and uncle were ready to retire, they wanted to keep it in the family.”

The shop is filled with jewelry of all kinds and unusual clocks. They’re set to different times, on purpose.

“Otherwise, they’d all go off at the same time and drive me crazy,” Skaarup said.

Dickson’s sits an extra step or two back from the street, and a sandwich board out front points to the store. The longtime customers don’t need that help to find their favorite jeweler.

“Before I purchased it, I noticed how many regulars we get here,” Skaarup said. “Once every month, they’ll come in for a watch battery, or to get jewelry cleaned. These customers have been with us for years.

“It’s almost like family. It’s very rewarding here.”

One reason they have such loyal customers might be because of the way they view their work.

“We fix people’s memories,” Skaarup said. “And we make new ones.”

One of the ways that Dickson’s makes new memories is by refashioning old jewelry into new pieces.

“They come in with rings from their greatgreat-grandmother, for

example,” Skaarup said. “We make them into new pieces. It’s worth it to see the joy on their faces.

“We had one customer whose husband had passed away. She brought in a big, man’s ring. Our jeweler turned it into a bracelet. She had tears in her eyes, and she wore it every day.”

The master jeweler that made that happen has been with Dickson’s longer than Skaarup or her family have owned it.

Andres Foldes came to Dickson’s in 1973.

“I started working on jewelry when I was 13, as an apprentice,” said Foldes, who is originally from Argentina. “I didn’t want to go to school, and my dad said I had to get work. My brother-in-law was a jeweler, too.”

Foldes says he’s semiretired now. He takes care of his grandchildren, but he still comes in to work a couple of days a week.

“This keeps me out of trouble,” he said.

Dickson’s does custom work, including a lot of repairs, in-house. They don’t ship anything out to have it done.

“Mall stores ship out of state,” Skaarup said. “That takes a week at least. Our turnaround is a day or two.”

Wandering around the shop, but mostly snoozing under a desk, is Bella, the “Watch Dog.”

Also familiar to patrons is Skaarup’s daughter, Alexis. She grew up in the shop.

“She learned to walk here,” Skaarup said. “Customers are always asking, ‘How’s your daughter?’”

Alexis might be going into the family business.

“She wrote a story in first grade, it

was ‘I’m going to work at Dickson’s Jewelers,’” Skaarup said. “She said ‘I love it there.’”

Meanwhile, the little shop continues touch-ups, but has no plans to move.

“We have fairly new paint and carpet,” Skaarup said. “We spruced it up when light rail opened.

“Light rail has been good for downtown. We get a lot of window shoppers now, and there are a lot of people walking around in downtown. For such a long time, it was so destitute, losing businesses and no activity.

“Now, downtown Mesa is coming back to life.”

(Larry Mangino/Tribune Staff Photographer)

Michelle Skaarup, owner of Dickson’s Jewelers, shows off a piece from her store. She says they’ve never been held up and never had a shoplifter, “knock on wood.”

(Larry Mangino/Tribune Staff Photographer)

Andres Foldes is a master jeweler with Dicksons Jewelers. He says he’s had to wear his magnifiers for years now because of up-close work, such as this ring repair.

Intel’s $7 billlion Chandler plan draws praise from officials

Intel will spend $7 billion to finish a Chandler factory it announced in 2011 and then left incomplete. The announcement was met with praise from Chandler and state officials.

Not only will 3,000 be employed directly at Fab 42, Intel says, but 10,000 other workers in Arizona will support the factory.

Terri Kimble, president and CEO of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce, said, “With Intel opening Fab 42, Chandler can look forward to an even stronger economy, strengthening our businesses and ultimately our communities.”

John McCain, R-Arizona, said, “This truly reflects our state’s dynamic workforce, growing technology sector, pro-business environment and great quality of life for all who live and work here.”

Endurance International hiring 600 at Tempe job fair

Endurance International Group, which provides web services for small and mediumsized businesses, will hire 600 at a Tempe job fair on Thursday, Feb. 16.

The fair will be from 4-7:30 p.m. at 1500 N. Priest Drive, Suite 300, in Tempe. RSVP for the job fair at jobfair@endurance.com and apply at eigjobs.com.

The new positions, which include managerial roles, technical support, sales and professional services, will double the company’s workforce.

Talk on body language at Women in Leadership

Lory Lanese from the Ramias-Lanese Group will present a keynote speech, “They’re Listening To Your Body,” Feb. 21 at the Chandler Chamber of Commerce Women in Leadership luncheon.

The session will start at 10:45 a.m., with the speech at noon, at SoHo 63, 63 E. Boston St. Chandler.

Attendees can to register early at chandlerchamber.com or by phone at 480963-4571.

ZipRecuriter hiring more for its new Tempe facility

ZipRecruiter is planning to expand its Tempe workforce this year, and hopes to total 500 by the end of the year.

The company hired nearly 200 people recently.

The recruiting company has customer support, software development, business analyst and other positions available at its new

26,000-square-foot building at Hayden Ferry Lakeside at 40 W. Rio Salado Parkway.

FirstBank to fund campus for Gilbert Christian Schools

Gilbert Christian Schools’ new elementary and middle school campus, near Greenfield Road and Ryan Road in Gilbert, will be funded by FirstBank.

The bank financed a total of $11.25 million. The new school will be over 56,000 square feet and will include four buildings on 8.72 acres.

Gilbert Christian Schools operates another K-8 campus and high school.

First Electronics buys space for fourth production line

An Arizona-based electronics manufacturer has bought a new building in Chandler for a fourth production line.

First Electronics Inc. paid $3.5 million for the 35,100-square-foot manufacturing building in Chandler.

The circuit board maker is now housed in a 14,000-square-foot building in Tempe.

United Food Bank president announces her retirement

Ginny Hildebrand, president and CEO of United Food Bank, is retiring March 1.

Hildebrand was with United Food Bank for three years. Under her direction, United Food Bank increased the poundage of food it collected and distributed by 25 percent.

The United Food Bank board of directors has begun a search for a new CEO.

Uber, Daimler announce partnership on self-driving cars

Ride-hailing service Uber and Daimler, the parent company of Mercedes-Benz, announced a partnership to work together on self-driving cars.

They hope to produce cars that will be used by Uber.

Uber has launched self-driving experiments in various U.S. cities, including Chandler.

Tempe Chamber of Commerce gets new communications director

Chris Samuels is the new communications director of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce.

Samuels has been a photojournalist for several newspapers in Utah, including the Deseret News in Salt Lake City. Samuels graduated with BA degrees in communication and international studies from the University of Utah.

He will succeed Sean Donovan, who is the current vice president of media and program development.

A call for boycotting all those crazy boycotts

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Tribune Columnist

In the olden days –before social media and the Reign of Donald – boycotting various businesses was something I did to amuse myself when I reached for my wallet. Every so often, a company would do something offensive. In turn, I would vow never to spend another dime there so long as I might live.

Or at least until I forgot why I was mad in the first place.

The first of these personal boycotts involved Circle K convenience stores, who torqued me off in the late 1990s when they got rid of free air for your tires and instead installed air machines that charged 25 cents.

My reasoning? “Hey, if you will literally charge me for air, then clearly you don’t need my money to buy gasoline.” That

stance lasted a decade, until I noticed that pretty much everyone was charging for air, so what was the point?

Back in the summer of 2003, when the Kinder Morgan pipeline shutdown created a weeklong gasoline crisis in the Valley, I vowed to boycott a certain central Phoenix Texaco after it engaged in

paid so little, they were getting taxpayerfunded state health care); Bank of America (I got sick of the endless ATM fees); Tesla and Solar City (Elon Musk’s personality and hunger for lopsided taxpayer subsidies makes me want to punch him in the trachea); and a certain local professional sports franchise where

“ In 2017, as with so many other things in American life, we’ve reached a new level of boycotting.”

some especially egregious price-gouging during the shortage.

Note to self: It might be time to talk to your therapist about this weird thing you have with gas stations.

Other companies I no longer patronize: Wal-Mart (after learning in 2007 that nearly 3,000 Wal-Mart employees were

I was once a season ticket holder (I’d sooner treat a scalper to Capitol Grille than give that owner and his subpar product a nickel).

In each case, my boycotts have always involved company business decisions. Rip me off and I won’t give you my cash anymore. Using that criteria, boycotts

have always felt right to me. No longer, though. Because in 2017, as with so many other things in American life, we’ve reached a new level of boycotting, a peak that turns every penny you spend into a political statement.

Every time I look at Facebook or Twitter, there’s a new place you’re not supposed to shop. Liberals don’t go to Chick-fil-A, Hobby Lobby, the state of North Carolina and any place that carries the Trump brand. Conservatives won’t shop at Target and they won’t eat Kellogg’s cereal. For a while, progressives boycotted Nordstrom because they carried Ivanka Trump merchandise. Last week, Nordstrom announced they were dropping Ivanka because of poor sales, infuriating Our Fearless Tweeter. Once President Trump lashed out, conservatives took up the #BoycottNordstrom cry. Talk about damned if you do, damned

County recorder: We’re improving vote time, other public services

BY ADRIAN FONTES Tribune Guest Writer

As your new Maricopa County Recorder, I am pleased to offer this report about our progress since taking office. During the campaign, we learned about your issues and concerns pertaining to this office and its responsibilities, for recording public documents and the elections processes. In an effort to address your concerns, this is what we are doing and how we are doing it.

Our first goal has been to re-establish openness and transparency to this office, based on hearing from you throughout the county that this office has not been very responsive. We are taking immediate steps to fixing this.

I hired five people to reach out to the community and rebuild the relationship between the recorder’s office and the residents and voters in the county. We

will have five members of this community relations team, each assigned to the county per supervisor district.

Two team members work out of our Mesa office, Christine Dyster (District 1) and Peg Kragie, (District 2). Two more at our downtown office; the team leader is Francisco Heredia (District 5), and Chatham Kitz (District 3).

A District 4 team member will join the team in a few weeks, and this means all of Maricopa will be covered for outreach. These team members have already met with community groups and participated in local events. Look for them at the next community event you attend.

Also, we have embraced the need to restore your faith in our elections processes. Our IT department conducted tests of our networks to ensure they are secure. The first round of testing was successful and while I can’t share the details, we were very pleased with all results.

We are planning to revamp our website for your ease of use. Later this year, we

will begin working on a new website to assist those with real estate issues, and for voters to more easily find information they need.

We also are working on a new plan to make sure that no one will stand in line for five hours again when voting in Maricopa County.

We are working to increase the number of precincts, helping to cut down voting lines and get more people to use mail-in ballots plus, and studying other options to make voting more accessible and easier for all.

In the coming weeks, we will be conducting community workshops around the county to hear your thoughts on the elections process and more about how we can improve it.

We are also searching for a new permanent elections director. In the meantime, I’ve appointed Rey Valenzuela, our assistant director, as our Interim Director. Rey is a member of the Federal Elections Assistance Commission and

widely recognized as a leading expert in elections across the nation.

While most people are concerned about elections, of equal importance is the recording function of our office where we record thousands of documents a month for the real estate industry.

We are championing a Recorder’s Summit in mid-February with real estate professionals from across the county to establish a discussion on how our office works for them today and what improvements we can make to enhance their business processes and outcomes down the road.

To learn more about what actions we take at the Recorder’s Office, check out our Facebook Page. Or join us for our East Valley Community Network Meet and Greet 4-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, at the East Valley Career Center, 735 N. Gilbert Road, Suite 134, Gilbert.

– Adrian Fontes was elected Maricopa County Recorder in November.

Giles has a vision for Mesa

In a sarcastic fashion, PJ O’Malley opines that Mesa Mayor Giles dreams “of driving up taxes...” (“Cut your budget, Giles,” Feb. 5). I suggest that Mayor Giles dreams of a better community, and of a vibrant downtown that returns far more value than it may cost.

The notion that Mesa’s budget is “bloated, overstaffed, extravagant” and so forth is misinformed at best. I would challenge O’Malley to be specific. What should be cut? What would the effects be? What agenda? Have you taken the time to visit with John Giles to discuss these things? He’s very accessible.

In textbook fashion, this is the kind of generalistic, negative rhetoric that serves no good purpose. Instead, why not counter with positive ideas? What is your vision for a better Mesa, PJ?

– Richard Adams – Mesa

No more marathons

Once again, on Saturday, Feb. 24, tens of thousands of north and northeast Mesa residents will find themselves held hostage in their homes due to a few hundred selfaggrandizing marathoners, forcing the closure of dozens of miles of local streets to traffic.

Among the many roads closed off are McDowell Road from Recker to Val Vista, Val Vista from McDowell to Brown and Brown from Val Vista to Dobson, while a good portion of Las Sendas also endures significant road closures. I live near Lindsay and McKellips. During the race hours, 4 a.m. to 1 p.m., I cannot go east on McKellips past Val Vista. I cannot go south on Lindsay past Brown. If I wish to go to the grocery store at Lindsay and University, I must enter the Loop 202 at Gilbert Road, go west to Dobson Road, south on Dobson to Main Street, then east back to Lindsay. Instead of a couple of miles, I’ll be driving more than 25 miles! God help you if you have an emergency and need to get to the doctor quickly. It won’t happen.

Why the city allows this event to disrupt the lives of so many taxpaying residents eludes me. Race participants don’t spend a significant amount of money in Mesa; their dollars are

BOYCOTTING

if you don’t.

from page 24

Me, I’m avoiding political boycotts, for three reasons. One, I’m a political independent who disagrees strongly with both schools of political thought. Two, I don’t expect the other 319 million Americans to agree with me at all times, or else I refuse to allow you into my life. And three, I have a sneaking suspicion that long before any Nordstrom boycott crimps the fabulous lifestyle of John W. Nordstrom’s descendants, it will hurt

spent in Tempe, Scottsdale and Gilbert, where there are excellent restaurants, hotels and entertainment venues. Mesa experiences a minimum revenue increase from this major interruption of residents’ lives.

It is time the city’s officials put their feet down and say, “No more! We will no longer disrupt our residents’ lives. No more marathons!!” Please.

– Edward F. Murphy – Mesa

Trump is setting up dictatorship

Let’s not beat around the bush anymore. We have all indications our Electoral College president is moving our country from a democracy to a dictatorship.

Mr. Trump is currently pushing to disrupt constitutional order. He is a vindictive man who will go to extreme lengths to punish his opponents and will break a promise in a heartbeat and without remorse.

The 2016 campaign confirmed that he has little respect for existing norms and rules: he refused to release his tax returns, lied repeatedly, claimed that the electoral and political systems were “rigged” against him, and threatened to jail his opponent if he won, among other such violations.

These are many signs that point to a dictatorship. Restricting and threatening the press; gutting the civil service, military, National Guard or the domestic security agencies; using government surveillance against domestic political opponents; and most of all executing these executive orders without regard for our Constitution. Is this going to happen? Or will the courts and the GOP in the House and Senate step up and stop this dictator from taking away our democracy?

This is a crisis!

Save health care

– Peter Thomas – Gilbert

Repealing the Affordable Care Act (ACA/ Obamacare) without a viable replacement, as Republicans in Congress are currently considering, will leave almost 30 million

the moms and pops who earn a middleclass living selling overpriced high heels, perfume and men’s accessories.

It’s one thing to avoid a business that’s ripping you or that offers shoddy customer service. But we’re heading toward a nation where liberals only use Bernie Lube for oil changes and conservatives only eat at McDonald’s—proudly endorsed by our Commander in Cheese.

That is an America we absolutely must boycott.

Americans — including 4 million children — without the security of health coverage. Such changes will affect millions more who benefit from ACA provisions like free preventative care, those with chronic illnesses not facing lifetime caps in benefits, and those with pre-existing conditions not facing denial of coverage.

Even if you don’t have coverage through the ACA, if you purchase your own insurance, expect to see your taxes go up by more than $3,000, thanks to ACA repeal and abolishing of healthcare tax credits.

Is this how we make America great? By taking health-care coverage away from families?

Working families need the safety and security of health coverage. If we want our families, our economy, and our communities to remain healthy, quality affordable health care is absolutely essential.

– Linsay Evans – Phoenix

Time to hurt animals?

As he was signing edicts hurting one group after another over the past few weeks, it was only a matter of time before Donald Trump got

around to hurting animals – already the most oppressed sentient beings on earth.

The animals’ turn came recently, by taking down the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) site that reports on government regulation of roughly 9,000 animal handling facilities. These are laboratories, dog breeders, fur farms, circuses, zoos and aquariums. The site is used every day by animal protection activists to monitor government enforcement of the 1966 Animal Welfare Act, the only effective federal law protecting animals.

Taking down the APHIS inspection site is a huge setback for animal protection. It will almost certainly lead to reduced government inspection of animal facilities and more animal suffering – a virtual repeal of the Animal Welfare Act. Ironically, this oppressive act was launched by the same dark-of-night process as that of pulling more than 100,000 visas from thoroughly vetted Muslim immigrants earlier –no notice, no hearings, no due process, no public announcement.

The oppressive mindset doesn’t really care who the victims are. Hopefully, the courts will.

– Armando Reed

– Phoenix

Highland’s Farrel among several new football coaches in EV

BY ZACH ALVIRA Tribune Contributing Writer

JakeWelsheimer knows that Highland is getting a committed football coach in Brock Farrel.

When Farrel was hired in 2014 to lead Shadow Mountain, Welsheimer was heading into his junior season. He was unaware of the impact that Farrel, in his first time as a high school head coach, would have on him and his teammates.

“The first time meeting Coach Farrel, he actually came to my house to meet my parents,” Welsheimer said. “No other coach has ever done that. He definitely tries to put an extra effort for his kids.”

Farrel proved to Welsheimer that he was willing to go the extra mile.

According to Shadow Mountain senior Jordan Pace, that only scratches the surface of what Farrel does for players.

“Growing up as a young man with him, he taught me a lot of things,” Pace said. “He was a mentor to me; he shaped me to be the football player I am today.”

Farrel shaped him so well that Pace, who came to Shadow Mountain focused on basketball, has now committed to play college football for Black Hills State University in South Dakota.

Farrel and the Matadors had only two months in 2014 to prepare for his first regular season with them. They went 3-7 that year. Even so, Farrel’s passion jumped out.

“There were a few kids who needed him as a father figure or parent type,” Pace said. “It made it easier to know that if I ever needed him in that sort of way, I could go to him, no questions asked.”

Farrel’s Matadors improved to 4-6 in 2015 and then 5-5 this past season.

Shadow Mountain is in north

Phoenix. Even with the program seemingly on the rise, Farrel took the opportunity to move closer to his East Valley home.

“(Highland) was the top choice,” Farrel said. “I just didn’t think it would be available, but it was.”

Farrel takes over for Pete Wahlheim, who was not retained after the Hawks went 3-7 last season.

The coaching change at Highland was one of several for East Valley programs.

The others include Westwood (Kyle Ide in, Jim Ewan out), Red Mountain (Mike Peterson in, Ron Wisniewski out), McClintock (Corbin Smith in, Matt Lewis out), Basha (Rich Wellbrock in, Gerald Todd out) and Corona del Sol (John Becktold out, interim coach Rich Mettlach in). In addition, Arizona College Prep, in Chandler, will start its inaugural season this fall with Myron Blueford as coach.

The new leaders of the programs will get a chance to work with their new players in spring ball, which gets started April 24 through May 20.

Highland’s athletic director, Rod Huston, said the passion Farrel has for his players became a factor in his hiring.

“You look at a program like ours that is 200 kids strong, that is just as important in my mind as whether or not we are winning a state title every year,” Huston said, referring to the total on the varsity, junior varsity and freshman teams. “I look for someone who fits into our community and who can manage a program of this size.”

“The people here at Highland fit really well with the values of my family,” Farrel said. “Finding the right fit is more important than finding a splash.”

Tre Davis, a junior lineman for Highland, said Farrel already has started to assert his vision.

“He talked about how he wanted to improve us not only on the field but in the classroom and everywhere else,”

Davis said. “He came in with a plan and I agree with it.”

Junior lineman Riley Bond said that the players, eager to impress the new coach, have adopted a new sense of urgency in their off-season work in the weight room.

“He is coming in and doing what we want, what our parents want and giving us that winning mentality,” Bond said. “With that we will be able to come closer together.”

Farrel, 33, has 11 years of high school coaching experience, including previous roles as an assistant and freshman head coach. He knows there is a process, and while winning championships is always a goal, he believes there are still more important factors—like making the players better on and off the field.

“If we don’t win a state championship, we are not a failure,” Farrel said. “We will set some goals but they will not define who we are if we don’t accomplish them.”

– Alvira is a sports journalism at Arizona State.

– Staff writer Jason P. Skoda contributed to this story.

(Zach Alvira/Tribune Contributor) Brock Farrel was hired to take over the Highland football program. He feels his family values match up well with the families involved in the program

Basketball postseason sparks chance for new journey

BY JASON P. SKODA

Tribune Prep Sports Director

As the state basketball tournaments get underway this week, each team has had its own story to tell on the way there.

Some come in riding a high and others are dealing with an emotional defeat at the end of the regular season.

Some teams love the fact that they are still around each other three months later and others just waiting for the season to be over.

All it takes is 32 minutes of game time to change it all.

Last week, the Basha boys basketball team was the state’s best and was one win away from ending the regular season undefeated.

The only thing stopping the Bears from a perfect regular season was an inconsistent but talented Perry squad that kept coming out on the wrong end of close games.

The Pumas (11-15) picked up the win, 59-57, to give them a huge boost in power points and belief in themselves just before the postseason got underway.

“It feels great, especially because we have been up and down during the season,” Pumas sophomore guard Jalen Williams said. “It’s great to get a win to help us boost our momentum going into playoffs.”

The Bears (26-1), on the other hand, sustained their first defeat since last year’s loss to Mesa in the state semifinals.

“We will find out what kind of team we have,” Basha coach Mike Grothaus said after the loss. “They’re in (the locker room) hurting right now. They were right there. They had a chance to win. They’ll be back. They’ll be fine.”

And they will find out where they finished in the 6A Conference power rankings and who they will play on

Sunday when the AIA releases the brackets after the play-in round is over.

The play-in games, the results of which were unknown at deadline, were played Friday. If the seeds hold true, then all remains the same (No. 1 vs. 16; No. 2 vs. 15, etc.) in the first round at the state tournament.

If upsets take place as expected, then re-seeding takes place as the worstremaining seed assumes the 16th seed.

In other words, if the 24th ranked team beat No. 9 in the play-in round, then the 24th team becomes the 16th seed and every other team finds its spot in the bracket.

A team like Perry, which entered the play-in game as the 19th seed, is dangerous should the Pumas build off the win over Basha and then get past No. 14 La Joya to make the final 16.

“We’ve been close in every game this year,” Perry coach Sam Duane Jr. said. “We always found a way to lose, but (against Basha) we found a way to win. We want to build on this and take this into the tournament.”

The Mountain Pointe girls team, which ended the regular season No. 10 in 6A, is a bit like the Perry boys team in that the final regular season game could make a difference heading into the playin game.

The Pride lost 49-46 to Gilbert, the only undefeated team in 6A during the power points games, to show the players they can play with anyone.

“We think it brought some confidence to our kids heading into the postseason,” Mountain Pointe coach Justin Hager said.

So, the journey continues on Tuesday, whether it is a team like the Perry boys or Mountain Pointe girls hoping to get an upset or two along the way or it is a team dealing with high expectations like Seton Catholic and Mesquite girls.

State tournament schedule

Boys

6A: Feb. 15, Feb. 18, Feb. 23 (Grand Canyon), Feb. 28 (GCU)

5A: Feb. 15, Feb. 18, Feb. 22, Feb. 27 (GCU)

4A: Feb. 15, Feb. 18, Feb. 23 (Copper Canyon

High), Feb. 27 (Gila River Arena)

3A: Feb. 15, Feb. 18, Feb. 21 (Prescott Valley Event Center), Feb. 24 (GRA), Feb. 25 (GRA)

2A: Feb. 17, Feb. 18, Feb. 24 (PVEC), Feb. 25 (PVEC)

1A: Feb. 17, Feb. 18, Feb. 24 (PVEC), Feb. 25 (PVEC)

Girls

6A: Feb. 14, Feb. 17, Feb. 23 (GRA), Feb. 28 (GCU)

5A: Feb. 14, Feb. 17, Feb. 22 (GCU), Feb. 27 (GCU)

4A: Feb. 14, Feb. 17, Feb. 22 (Copper Canyon), Feb. 25 (GRA)

3A: Feb. 14, Feb. 17, Feb. 20 (PVEC), Feb. 24 (GRA), Feb. 25 (GRA)

2A: Feb. 17, Feb. 18, Feb. 24 (PVEC), Feb. 25 (PVEC)

1A: Feb. 17, Feb. 18, Feb. 24 (PVEC), Feb. 25 (PVEC)

It all comes down to the next 32 minutes of game time.

“Every team wants this,” Hager said. “As a coach, you have ups and downs and at this point in the season you want to be healthy and playing your best basketball.”

– Contact Jason Skoda at 480-898-7915 or jskoda@evtrib.com. Follow him on Twitter @ JasonPSkoda.

– Like the East Valley Tribune on Facebook and follow @EVTNow on Twitter.

(Special to the Tribune) The Mesquite girls basketall team is the overwhellming favorite in the 6A state tournament.

Faith

Your ‘faith muscles’ need exercise lest they atrophy

BY DIANE MARKINS Tribune Guest Writer

Are you fat, lazy and graceless ... in your faith? When was the last time you truly worked on your faith muscles?

Just as our bones hold us up and our ligaments and skin keep everything contained, our salvation faith—what Christ did on the cross—will sustain us. But in order to keep our faith growing and in good shape, we need to exercise our faith muscles.

A few years saw a great example of this as my pastor stretched his faith muscles. He talked about the importance of tithing. Not just how much it means to God, but what a blessing it is to the giver. As he concluded, he offered a money-back guarantee to anyone who

FAITH CALENDAR

SATURDAY, FEB. 25

HEALING FROM DIVORCE

St. Andrew the Apostle Church is holding a Day of Healing for the Divorced and Separated that will feature Marianna Skrobiak, a retired psychotherapist who also has a background in theology. Her topics will cover healthy boundaries, roadblocks, trust, forgiveness and moving on.

DETAILS>> 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 3450 W. Ray Road, Chandler; $45 covers breakfast, lunch and study materials. Register/information: 480-899-1990, barb-blishko@ standrewchandler.com.

SUNDAYS

VALOR CHRISTIAN OUTLINES MISSION

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.

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

committed to give at least 10 percent of their earnings for 90 days. If anyone wasn’t satisfied with the resultant blessings in their life, the church would reimburse them.

This has nothing to do with material gain, but with receiving intangible rewards like peace, provision, comfort, contentment and joy. By stretching his

every day), we allow ourselves greater flexibility, grace and longer strides. After we stretch and begin to move more freely, we also begin to gain strength of faith. In my family, each of us has been stretching our faith muscles lately. My son is changing the direction of our family business, having many experiences that stretched him. His wife takes care

“ Others are flexing new muscles as they relax and trust God for healing. ”

faith muscles, this pastor inspired others to begin stretching theirs as well. Our faith muscles will atrophy if we don’t use them. We need to stretch them and build them up for strength. As we stretch them beyond the limit of our comfort (only as far as they typically go

5-13 at Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler. 480-855-4333, info@ chabadcenter.com, or chabadcenter.com.

RABBINIC LIT COURSE OFFERED

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 and 10:45 a.m. 2700 E. Southern Ave., Mesa. Nursery available for infants through kindergarten at service times. Youth ministry classes are open in the Education Annex at 10:45 a.m. Information: 480892- 2700, unityofmesa.org, lori@unityofmesa.org.

ALL ARE WELCOME

All on a peaceful spiritual path are welcome and honored in this inclusive, loving, thriving Unity Community. Join us for Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center’s Sunday Celebration Service

DETAILS>> 10:30 a.m. Toddlers and children meet during our service. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline, Suite 102, Mesa. Information:

of their home and kids. My daughter has a new job and is learning to step out in authority that has been given to her. My husband is strengthening as he finds creative ways to keep our business alive and all our employees working in a bad economy.

info@interfaith-community.org.

SUNDAY CELEBRATION SERVICE

Inspirational messages and music to lift your spirit. A welcoming community committed to living from the heart. Many classes and events offered. We welcome you!

DETAILS>> 10 a.m. Sundays at Unity of Tempe, 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe. Information: 480-7921800, unityoftempe.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.

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.

PROSPERITY RECIPES AT UNITY OF TEMPE

Internationally known speaker and author, Maureen G. Mulvaney brings back her Prosperity Recipes class series to Unity of Tempe on Monday evenings. Cost: $10 per session

DETAILS>> 6:15-8:15 p.m., Unity of Tempe, 1222 E.

Others are flexing new muscles as they relax and trust God for healing. Every word I write is my effort at extending my tight faith muscles. They want to hold me back and keep me in the same spot, but God says that I need to push back and go beyond my point of comfort—even if it hurts.

I want to see how strong my faith can get; what I can accomplish, but this will only be realized if I (and YOU) stop being a spectator and begin exercising faith muscles to the point that they are sore and tired.

What new thing could you try? What could you do better? Where is God working that you could join Him if you just stretched a tiny bit? There should be contentment in challenge.

– Diane Markins divides her time between family, platform speaking, radio, business and writing. Dianemarkins.com.

Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe. Information: 480-7921800, unityoftempe.com.

TUESDAYS

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

Celebrate Recovery is a Biblical program that helps us overcome our hurts, hang-ups, and habits. Through teaching, worship, and sharing in small groups, you will find genuine people devoted to help discover the power of Christ through the recovery process.

DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m., Central Christian Church, 933 N. Lindsay Road, Mesa. Information: Eric at 480-924-4946.

GRIEFSHARE

Mountain Park Community Church is offering an ongoing GriefShare programs to help people deal with the pain of losing a loved one.

DETAILS>> 6:30-8 p.m., 2408 E. Pecos Road, Ahwatukee. To register: mountainpark.org and click on Launch. Information: Alex at 480-759-6200

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>> 10-11 a.m., Barness Family East Valley Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. evjcc.org or 480-897-0588.

UNITY YOGA AT UNITY OF TEMPE

Center in Mind, Body & Spirit at our weekly Unity Yoga classes with Mary Jo “MJ” Kuzmick. Bring your own mat (2 blankets & blocks, if you have them). Suggested love offering: $8 a class.

DETAILS>> 10 a.m., Unity of Tempe, 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe. Information: 480-792-1800, unityoftempe.com.

WEDNESDAYS

CELEBRATE RECOVERY MEETS

Celebrate Recovery says it “brings your relationship with the Lord closer to your heart as it heals your hurts, habits and hang-ups.” Participants can discuss issues ranging from feeling left out to addictions. “Nothing is too small or too large.”

DETAILS>> 6:20 p.m. at Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. mvlutheran.org/ celebraterecovery or email cr@alphamvlc.com.

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY OFFERED

Living Word Ahwatukee women’s Bible study and fellowship that offers “a short, low-key time of praise and worship in music and message.” It’s also an opportunity to meet other Christian women in Ahwatukee.

DETAILS>> 10-11:30 a.m., Living Word Ahwatukee, 14647 W. 50th St., Suite 165, Ahwatukee. Free child care.

‘A COURSE IN MIRACLES’

Longtime “A Course in Miracles” student and teacher Rev. Julianne Lewis leads this interactive time of discussion and sharing. This group is appropriate for ACIM beginners as well as experienced ACIM students—and everyone in between.

DETAILS>> 1-2:15 p.m. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline, Suite 102, Mesa. $10 love donation. Information: revj4u@gmail.com.

MEDITATION ON TWIN HEARTS

“Every day you take a shower. Practicing Twin Hearts Meditation is like taking a spiritual shower. When your aura is clean you experience a higher level of awareness. When your aura is clean you see through things more clearly. Even good luck increases.”

DETAILS>> 7:30-9:30 p.m., Unity of Tempe, 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe. Information: 480-7921800, unityoftempe.com.

THURSDAYS

BETH MOORE BIBLE STUDY

St. Peter Lutheran Church will be presenting Beth Moore’s study “Jesus the One and Only” for 11 weeks. DETAILS>> 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. 1844 East Dana Avenue, Mesa. The workbook that accompanies the study can be purchased at Lifeway Christian Store.

SLEEPING BAGS FOR THE HOMELESS

Ugly Quilts has made more than 15,500 sleeping bags for the area homeless, and continues to do so at First United Methodist Church every Thursday. Quilters stitch donated fabric, comforters, sheets and blankets into sleeping bags. Those are then distributed to the Salvation Army, churches and veterans’ organizations. DETAILS>> 8 a.m.-2 p.m., 15 E. 1st Ave., Mesa. Information: 480-969-5577.

KIDS CAN FIND SUPPORT

Support group for children ages 6 to 12 coping with a separation or divorce in the family. One-time $10 fee includes snacks and workbook.

DETAILS>> 6:30-8:30 p.m., 1825 S. Alma School Road, Room C202, Chandler. Pastor Larry Daily, 480-9633997, ext. 141, larrydaily@chandlercc.org or chandlercc.org.

ULPAN INSTRUCTION AVAILABLE

Class is based on Israel’s successful Ulpan instruction. Taught by Ilan Berko, born in Israel, schooled in the U.S.

DETAILS>> 7 p.m. Chabad of the East Valley, 3875 W. Ray Road, Suite 6, Chandler. chabadcenter.com or 480-855-4333.

FRIDAYS

NEFESHSOUL HOLDS SERVICES

Congregation NefeshSoul holds Shabbat services the second Friday of every month on the campus of the Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation.

DETAILS>> 6:15 p.m., 6400 W. Del Rio St., Chandler. Information: nefeshsoul.org.

TODDLERS CAN MARK SHABBAT

Celebrate Shabbat with a service, music, and a craft project designed for children up to 5 years old and their parents or other adult.

DETAILS>> 9:30 a.m., Temple Emanuel, 5801 S. Rural Road. 480-838-1414 or emanueloftempe.org.

TOTS TAUGHT TORAH

Hosted by Chabad of the East Valley for children ages 2 to 5. Features hands-on activities about the Shabbat, songs, stories and crafts. Children will make and braid their own challah.

DETAILS>> 10:15-11 a.m., members’ homes. 480-785-5831.

NOSH BEFORE SERVICE

“Nosh” and then enjoy the Shir Shabbat service led by the Shabba-Tones, the Shabbat musical group.

DETAILS>> 6 p.m. first Friday of the month, Temple Emanuel, 5801 S. Rural Road, Tempe. 480-838-1414 or emanueloftempe.org.

YOUNG FAMILIES HOLD SHABBAT

Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley invites young families to its services.

DETAILS>> Regular services at 6 p.m. except on the third Friday of each month, when a 6 p.m. Young Family Shabbat Service is held for children and adults of all ages. Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley, 3400 N. Dobson Road, Chandler. Shabbat Morning and Torah Service weekly at 9 a.m. 480-897-3636 or tbsev.org. or info@tbsev.org.

SERVICE INCLUDES KIDS

Designed for children up to 5 years old and their parents or other adult. Following the service is an Oneg Shabbat, a time for a snack and to meet other families with young children.

DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m. second Fridays, Temple Emanuel, 5801 S. Rural Road. 480-838-1414 or emanueloftempe.org.

TEMPLE EMANUEL LISTS SERVICES

Traditional service followed by an Oneg Shabbat. DETAILS>> 7:30 p.m. second and fourth Fridays, 5801 S. Rural Road, Tempe. 480-838-1414 or emanueloftempe.org.

SEARCH FOR GOD: AN EDGAR CAYCE STUDY

If you are interested in knowing more about yourself and how you relate to others and God, please join us as we study this in-depth information given through Edgar Cayce. If you already own any version of the “Search for God” books, please bring them. Books will also be available for purchase at the meetings. There is no charge for this group itself but a love donation will be taken for the church.

DETAILS>> 7 p.m., Unity of Tempe, 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe. Information: 480-792-1800, unityoftempe.com.

SATURDAYS

These special study sessions at the beginning of Shabbat morning services teach the structure of Shabbat services and how to follow in the Siddur (prayer book). Taught by Rabbi Leitner. Introduction to Judaism, Introductory Hebrew Reading for Adults, and Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah Preparation are cumulative, so no new students can be accepted mid-year.

DETAILS>> 9-9:30 a.m. fourth Saturday of each month, Pre-register for fall by contacting Amy Shevitz at vped@tbsev.org.

WEEKLY SERVICES SCHEDULED

International, nondenominational church offers weekly Sabbath services. Congregational meeting in the morning and Bible study in the afternoon. DETAILS>> 10:30 a.m.-noon; 1:30-2:45 p.m. at True Jesus Church, 2640 N. Dobson Road, Chandler. 480899-1488 or tjcphoenix@tjc.org.

JEWISH KIDS PROGRAM AVAILABLE

Shabbat Yeladim is a free Shabbat program for Jewish children ages 3-7 sponsored by Ahwatukee’s NefeshSoul Jewish Community. Shabbat Yeladim is on the second Saturday of the month. Songs, stories and art project each month.

DETAILS>> 10-11 a.m. on the Valley Unitarian Universalist Campus, 6400 W. Del Rio, Chandler. Contact Rabbi Susan Schanerman at rabbi@nefeshsoul.org or nefeshsoul.org.

STUDY AND WORSHIP IN TEMPE

DETAILS>> Temple Emanuel, 5801 S. Rural Road, Tempe. Optional study session at 8:20 a.m., Shabbat morning service at 9:30 a.m., followed by a kiddush. 480-838-1414 or emanueloftempe.org.

ONGOING

JEWISH CENTER SELLS GIFTS

The Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life Chai Judaica and Gifts offers a wide variety of gifts, from

Mezuzot to books, religious items and jewelry. DETAILS>> Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler. Gift shop hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday by appointment only and Sundays 9:30-10 a.m. and noon-12:30 p.m. info@chabadcenter.com or 480-855-4333.

TEMPLE PROVIDES KIDS ROOM

The full-time infant room for children ages 6 weeks to 12 months.

DETAILS>> Temple Emanuel of Tempe, 5801 S. Rural Road, Tempe. Rachel Wallach, 480-838-1414, or rachel@ emanueloftempe.org.

CHILD DEVELOPMENT AT CHABAD

Reggio-Inspired program where children can develop socially, physically, emotionally and intellectually in a Jewish setting. For preschoolers 12 months to 5 years old, with part-time and half-day options. Before- and after-care hours available.

DETAILS>> Shternie Deitsch at info@chabadcenter. com or call 480-855-4333.

GET-ACQUAINTED COFFEE

East Valley Friends and Neighbors holds a monthly get-acquainted coffee and short general meeting on the first Wednesday of each month. The group supports local charities and has special-interest groups, such as book discussions and card game groups, that meet throughout the month.

DETAILS>> 9:30 a.m. the first Wednesday of each month. Grace United Methodist Church, 2024 E. University Drive, Mesa. Information: 380-828-5146, evfanaz.org or email Tinytubes@cox.net.

Submit your releases to rzubiate@ timespublications.com

Meat commands center stage at Rodizio Grill in Mesa

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Tribune Contributing Writer

You won’t have to ask “Where’s the beef?” at the latest addition to Mesa’s fashionable Dana Park commercial center.

Rodizio Grill on South Val Vista Drive in Village Square is an all-you-can-eat-style Brazilian steakhouse, where the beef, pork and chicken keep coming to diners unless they say “stop.”

“Gauchos,” men dressed in traditional Brazilian garb, come to each table about every minute and a half to slice generous portions of more than a dozen types of meat, including picanha (top sirloin), maminha (tri-tip sirloin) and chicken wrapped in bacon.

Diners leave a wooden trinket with the green side facing up when they want the meat to keep coming and ﬂip it to the red side when they’ve had their fill.

The national chain restaurant’s goal is to offer a fun and authentic Brazilian steakhouse experience, said Nick Clayton, managing partner of the Mesa franchise, which opened in November.

In an age when many diners are choosing gluten-free options and piling vegetables on their plates, Rodizio Grill is not just tasty but also a healthy choice, Clayton insisted.

“Brazilian cuisine lends itself to glutenfree,” Clayton added. “They don’t use a lot of ﬂour.”

He also noted, “We have a huge salad bar.”

He said that 98 percent of the menu is gluten-free and that the salad bar features about 45 different items, including hearts of palms, quail eggs and lots of fresh vegetables and lettuce for people to make their own salads.

Rodizio also has quinoa, beet, potato and garbanzo salads, along with roasted coconut-pineapple coleslaw. Fresh fruit juices and grilled pineapple are also popular.

Moqueca, which is a Brazilian fish stew, is included in the salad bar, along with beef stroganoff and other hot foods. Appetizers include Pão de Queijo, which is a gluten-free Brazilian cheese bread made from yucca, as well as Bananas Fritas and cinnamon-glazed bananas.

Until early this week, the restaurant is also celebrating BaconFest, serving bacon and “bacon-inspired” meat along with the usual meat lineups. Some of the specials include ham wrapped in bacon, pork belly, steak wrapped in bacon and pork rinds. At the salad bar, people can grab bacon au gratin potatoes.

“Who doesn’t like stuff wrapped in bacon?” Clayton said. “You’ve gotta have fun.”

For $31.99, adults can eat unlimited meats, the salad bar and appetizers for dinner. The unlimited salad bar and appetizers alone are $21.99.

The restaurant serves dinner from 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and offers a brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in addition

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES AND SUDOKU from page 32

to dinners. Brunch costs $29.99 per adult Saturdays and Sundays and $24.99 on Fridays.

While feasting on brunch, customers can get all the usual unlimited dinner meats and the salad bar, plus homemade banana bread, lime cake, French toast, bacon, eggs and hash browns.

Children ages seven to eleven can get any unlimited meals for $10.99, kids ages three to six pay $5.99 and it’s free for children up to two years old if they’re with a paying adult.

Clayton, who runs the Mesa restaurant along with managing partner Adam Adams, said Rodizio is a great place for big groups to celebrate birthdays, retirements or other occasions. Staff members beat a drum, play a tambourine and sing “Happy Birthday” in Portuguese to customers.

This is the first Rodizio in Arizona, and Clayton considers Mesa a great location because it is family-friendly and busy.

“I’ve been working on this for a couple years,” said Clayton. “As we mature in the neighborhood, more and more big parties will happen here. The area’s been excited

to have something like this for a long time. We’re not a stuffy, formal restaurant.”

He’s worked for Rodizio at other locations for about 14 years, most recently in Salt Lake City. Clayton said many people have moved from Salt Lake City to Mesa and are already familiar with Rodizio.

Gaucho Eric Kentish, 25, who moved to the area from Brazil, enjoys working there.

“I feel like I’m home,” Kentish said. “A lot of people from Brazil come here.”

Marcia Overley of Gilbert recently dined with a group at the Mesa Rodizio Grill after having enjoyed the food when visiting a Salt Lake City Rodizio Grill.

“I like all of it,” especially the baconwrapped chicken, Overley said. “You need a gurney to get out of here.”

Dr. Stuart Agren and his wife, Pam Agren, of Mesa also were also enthusiastic customers recently.

“I like a variety of food,” Stuart Agren said. “It’s fun to get the different cuts of meat.”

Clayton said Rodizio in Mesa will have some special menu items for Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day. For more information, go to rodiziogrill.com.

(Colleen Sparks/Tribune Contributor)

Rodizio Grill gaucho Eric Kentish serves meat to Pam Agren and her husband, Dr. Stuart Agren, at the Mesa restaurant.

Mesa teen’s award-winning play performed on Arts Center stage

By Get Out Staff

Claire Howard learned about the East Valley Children’s Theatre’s Aspiring Playwrights Contest two years ago while attending an EVCT performance, and her interest was immediately piqued. However, the deadline was three days away, and Claire, then a 14-year-old homeschooled student from Mesa, had never written a play. She spent the next three days furiously researching and writing.

Two years later, Claire, now 16, is about to watch the world premiere of her winning work, “The Heroes of Olim,” performed at the Mesa Arts Center until Feb. 19.

The cast of 37 includes youth ages 8-18 from all over the Valley.

IF YOU GO

Where: Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa

When: 7 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturdays, 2 p.m. on Sundays.

Cost: $15 adults, $11 children

More info: 480-644-6500 or evct.org

Getting there was hardly all in a day’s work for Claire, though.

“As I typed, the story kind of just unfolded,” she said about the beginning of a two-year journey. “As different situations came up, I would have to figure out a way to solve them.”

To start, she took characters from “Aladdin” and “Cinderella” and put them together. Winston is a thief who pretends to be a nobleman. Janus is the gullible king’s evil advisor. Agnes is a servant girl who becomes a princess for an evening.

That’s where the similarities end.

When the king’s daughter, Princess Elena, is kidnapped by Janus and his lackeys, Agnes, who remarkably resembles Elena, fills in for the princess at her 16th birthday masquerade ball, while Winston and his partners try to foil Janus’ evil scheme.

Claire submitted her manuscript at midnight of the deadline date two years ago. About 60 entries were read by the judging committee, and Claire’s hurried effort was awarded a tie for third place.

The committee was so impressed with the quality of her writing that it encouraged her to rework “The Heroes

of Olim” and bring it back the following year. She did, and this time, it was the 2016 contest winner.

Yet another year later, it is approaching its stage debut.

Claire is inspired by writers J.K. Rowling, C.S. Lewis, and J.R.R. Tolkien, her favorite genre being fantasy/ adventure. Her goal is to write young-adult fiction or picture books, which she hopes to illustrate herself.

“I’m an avid reader, and when I’m searching for books to read, so many teen books seem to shove us into these categories that try to say we are unique, but then try to stereotype our uniqueness,” she said. “I’d like to write a book more about teens looking outward rather than inward.”

Playwrights from all over the country submit plays to EVCT’s annual Aspiring Playwrights Contest in hopes of being awarded a cash prize and having their work produced as a part of EVCT’s season.

Many of the entered plays are performed around the country.

Claire is grateful that she will get to see her work performed in her hometown.

“EVCT’s passion for teaching has benefited me in so many ways,” she said. “I keep calling it ‘my play,’ but it really is a collaboration of so many people’s different talents and hard work.

“I’m so thankful to be a part of something that is so much bigger than me, and I can’t believe I’m going to get to see my characters onstage.”

(Tribune News Service)

Claire Howard, 16, wrote “The Heroes of Olim,” which will be performed at the Mesa Arts Center.

National Hot Rod Association shares love affair with the Valley

BY TIM J. RANDALL Getout Contributing Writer

When the 33rd annual National Hot Rod Association Arizona Nationals come to Chandler Feb.24-25, fans will bear witness to a mutual lovefest.

“This is a very special event for NHRA,” said Glen Cromwell, NHRA vice president of national event marketing. “Phoenix is a really strong market and has a very passionate racing community.”

Set for Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, the NHRA Arizona Nationals is the second leg of the annual 24-event circuit NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series.

Professional drivers will put their skills on display for patrons who enjoy speed, speed and more speed.

“We reach up to 330 miles per hour,” said driver Tommy Johnson Jr. “I drive the MakeA-Wish Dodge Charger R/T Funny Car. I look forward to coming to Phoenix, I have raced year every year since the late 1980s, and it is great to see how the event and area have grown.”

The Funny Car drag is one of a slew of events that includes the Top Fuel race and Pro Stock competition.

“This is not your stick and ball sports experience,” Cromwell said. “Every ticket is an all-access pit pass. We are eight hours of interaction where fans can get close to the action and talk to the racers, see what they are doing and get their autographs.”

Last year was strong for the NHRA, which boasted five sell-out events.

“This year, we expect 100,000 attendees over three days,” he said. “Fox and Fox Sports One will be our new television

IF YOU GO

Where: Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, 20000 S. Maricopa Road, Chandler.

Info: 877-840-0457, racewildhorse. ticketforce.com.

When: 9:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 24; 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, and 9 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 26.

Cost: $34-$61.

partners as well.”

Patrons can see Johnson in the Funny Car race, won last year by Tim Wilkerson on his way toward two Mello Yello victories. In Top Fuel, Leah Pritchett and Brittany Force will attempt to have a rematch of their epic 2016 race, which was the first all-female showdown in Top Fuel since 1982 and only the fourth in Mello Yello Pro-Class Series history.

“It is the happiest day of my life, besides getting married, of course,” Pritchett said about last year’s win. “I feel like I just won the Super Bowl, even though it’s only the second race and it’s not the U.S. Nationals. For me, it an incredible personal and professional victory.”

In Pro Stock, last year’s winner Jason Line streaked out of the gates fast, eventually capturing eight Mellow Yello titles.

“It will be great to come back to Phoenix and try to defend my win from last year,” Line said. “Phoenix is a very good place to come and participate and I have been doing it as long as I have been a racing professional.”

In addition to the racing, guests can tour the NHRA Nitro Alley and Manufacturers Midway. Sponsors and race vendors will create a carnival atmosphere, with interactive displays, simulated competitions, merchandise, food and fun for the family.

(Tribune News Service) Cool and fast cars will be thrilling fans at the 33rd annual National Hot Rod Association Arizona Nationals this month.

Youth Symphony of the Southwest

Introduce the kids to classical music, or just enjoy some yourself, with a free concert of Elgar’s “Concerto for Cello” and Berlioz’ “Roman Carnival Overture.”

DETAILS>> 7 p.m., Monday, Feb. 13. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa. Cost: Free. 480-644-6500. mesaartscenter.com.

‘The Marvelous Wonderettes’

Journey back to 1958 and follow four girls as they attend the Springfield High School prom. Learn about their lives through more than 30 hit ‘50s and ‘60s songs, including “Lollipop,” “Dream Lover” and “Lipstick on Your Collar.”

DETAILS>> Mondays and Tuesdays, Feb. 13-Apr. 18. Hale Centre Theatre, 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert. Tickets: $18-$30. 480-497-1181. haletheatrearizona.com.

Valentine’s Day Love with Esteban

Acclaimed Spanish guitarist Esteban, his

violinist daughter and a full band will take you away on an evening journey of romantic music.

DETAILS>> 7 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 14. Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe. Cost: $30-$45. 480350-2822. tca.ticketforce.com.

Valentine’s Date Concert: Jason Lyle Black

“The Backwards Piano Man” garners millions of views on YouTube, takes top spots on iTunes and receives critical praise for his original works and pop arrangements. Catch him live.

DETAILS>> 7 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 14. Higley Center for the Performing Arts, 4132 E. Pecos Road, Gilbert. Tickets: $18-$25. 480279-7194. higleycenter.ticketforce.com.

Navah Perlman: A Musical Memoir

The daughter of world-famous violin virtuoso Itzahk Perlman, Navah Perlman brings her impressive musical background to the stage in a piano concert you won’t soon forget.

DETAILS>> 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 16. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa. Tickets: $30-$70. 480-644-6500. mesaartscenter.com.

Peach Blossom Celebration

The peach blossoms—and other kinds of fruit blossoms—are in bloom, and you can tour more than 80 acres of them. Take the scenic walking path down to the orchards, or hop aboard a train or a guided hay ride.

DETAILS>> 9 a.m.-4 p.m., ThursdaysSundays, Feb. 16-Feb. 28. Schnepf Farms, 24810 S. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek. Tickets: $3 entry (8 and under free), $5 hay ride. 480-987-3100. schnepffarms.com.

Family Flicks Art Walk

Catch a free classic movie outdoors— the original “Ghostbusters”—plus special guests and activities. In addition, walk around downtown Chandler for the Art Walk and the beginning the Chandler Science Spectacular.

DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m., Friday, Feb. 17.

Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Cost: Free. chandleraz.gov.

War

Started in 1969, War boasts more than 50 million albums sold. You might know their hits “Low Rider,” “Don’t Let No One Get You Down and “Why Can’t We Be Friends?”

DETAILS>> 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 18.

Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Tickets: $38-$68. 480-7822680. chandlercenter.org.

Arizona Renaissance Festival

Billed as the “Greatest Party Since Camelot,” it offers 13 stages, turkey legs and other food, games of skills, people-powered rides, and a 16th century marketplace and 30-acre village containing 2,000 costumed characters.

DETAILS>> Saturdays-Sundays, Feb. 18-April 2. 12601 US-60, Gold Canyon. Tickets: $24 adults, $14 ages 5-12, $21 seniors/ military. arizona.renfestinfo.com.

Disney in Concert

Hear your favorite Disney music live in this multimedia concert presentation. Projected above the orchestra you will see scenes from “Frozen,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “The Lion King” and “The Little Mermaid” as the orchestra plays.

DETAILS>> Feb. 24-26. Phoenix Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. Tickets: $33-$109. 602-495-1999 tickets. phoenixsymphony.org.

– Justin Ferris, Phoenix.org

Life Events

Obituaries

MARSH, Adam Louis

Adam Louis Marsh passed away January 27, 2017

father Albert James Marsh III, Grandparents Milton Austin, Shanna Williams, Albert James Marsh Jr , and Margaret (Peggy) Marsh He is survived by his mother, Deyonne Marsh, brother Greg Marsh and

Marsh along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins

Adam was a kind, loving man with a huge heart He was raised in the country outside Gallup, Ne w Mexico where he spent his time riding horses and motorcycles and befriending everyone he met Adam moved to the Queen Creek, Arizona area w

membered for his fun loving and adventurous spirit and will always be described as a daredevil The world will not be the same without his warm smile A memorial will be held in Arizona March 18 and in New Mexico April 8

Sign the Guestbook at: www EastValleyTribune com

, Rix Robinson Rix Robinson Ryskamp was born on 16 December

Ryskamp and Edna Robinson Working with his father and brother Hank from a young age he learned the skills of a painter and wallpaper hanger, which became his life’s occupation He worked in Detroit

customers who appreciated his exceptional artistic skills In the winter of 1949 on a trip to Salt Lake City, he met Clarice Maude Nelson and they were married there on 16 August 1949 Clarice survives him, along with four children and their spouses: George R and Peggy of Lindon, Utah; B

Mansel Nelson, of Flagstaff, Arizona; and Barry N and Robyn of Salt Lake City, Utah All have wonderful memories of Dad during their childhood years in Oak Park Michigan Grandpa Ryskamp was adored by his twelve grandchildren and twenty -three great grandchildren, who have loving memories of playing in the pool with him at his Mesa, Arizona home, playing Risk, building puzzles, and going to “chow ” Rix passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning 31 January 2017 and will be buried in the Mountain View Cemetery, Mesa, Arizona on 4 February 2017

Sign the Guest Book at EastValleyTribune com

PRESCHOOL TEACHER:

Association Montessori International accredited private Montessori school in Mesa, Arizona is seeking a full-time AMI trained primary preschool teacher Spanish language skills are also desired but not required for this position

QUALIFICATIONS:

Ideal candidates will have a BA in Early Childhood Education and 2 years or more experience in an early childhood setting We offer competitive salary/benefits Applicants must have proof of legal authority to work in the US Send resume & referral #1106 to: Therese Kestner, Director, Montessori International School, 1230 N Gilbert Road, Mesa, Arizona 85203

Employment General

Total Transit has openings for Software Engineers in Glendale, AZ

Reqs US Masters degree/foreign equiv or US Bach/equiv w/ 5yrs exp to dsgn/dev/implement/test/modify applics/software/systems using skills in asp net4/c#/css/ oracle10g/sql/ajax/javascript

Email resume w/ ref no 2017-19 to Wade@ totaltransittalent@gmail com w/ref to ad in EVT

EARN EXTRA INCOME!

$100 to $200 per week

The Arizona Republic wants to contract you to deliver newspaper on the weekends in the East Valley and Apache Junction For additional details, contact Bob Griner at 602-444-4069 or rgriner@republicmedia com

In-Home Caregivers Wanted! Very Flexible Hours, Numerous Open Case's Available, Start Today! (Valley Wide)

Looking for CAREGIVERS (non-medical) that are team players Flexible schedules preferred with weekend availability WE HAVE CASES TO STAFF IMMEDIATELY!!! WE HAVE FULL TIME AND PART TIME POSITIONS. BI-LINGUAL IS A HUGE PLUS!

REQUIRED FOR EMPLOYMENT (MUST HAVE):

MUST HAVE A RELIABLE VEHICLE

2 FORMS OF VALID FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION

ACTIVE CPR/FIRST AID CERTIFICATION, NEGATIVE TB TEST – BOTH WE WILL PROVIDE ASSISTANCE CLEAR BACKGROUND CHECK (WE WILL COMPLETE)

Apply in person 2601 E Thomas Rd #220 Phoenix AZ 85016 or call 602-993- 0297 for more information

Employment General

KollaSoft has openings for Software Engineers (SE) and Sr Programmer Analysts (Sr PA) in Scottsdale, AZ Candidates for SE must have US Masters degree/foreign equiv or Bach + 5 yrs exp w/ skills in Java/J2EE, RAD, JSP, and Websphere to dsgn/dev/implement/ test systems/applics

Candidates for Sr PA must have US Bachelors degree/foreign equiv w/ skills in J2EE/JSP/MS/SQL/ Excel/Java/C to dsgn/dev & maintain systems/applics

Email resume to Sekhar at skolla@kollasoft com and place ref no 2017-19 directly on front of resume for SE position; 2017-21 for Sr PA position w/ ref to EVT ad

Employment General

wood Mesa AZ 85210 seeks

seal joints btween plasterboard/wallboard, prep wall surface Bend, lift&hold up 50Lb, 3mo exp in Res constr, work in ext weathe

travel in Metropolitan area M-F 7am-3pm @$ 16 97/hr OT if needed @$ 25 46 from 4/1 to 12/15/17 US&H2B workers offered

s a m e w a g e s & w o r k i n g c o n d i t i o n s t o i nclude paid post-hired drug test Sgle wrkw k c o m p u t e s w a g e s W e e k l y p m t H 2 B

w r k r t o b e p a i d U S C o n s u l a t e , b o r d e r , lodging fees on 1st workwk on a company check “Transportation (including meals & t

of employment or its cost to workers reimb

employment period Return transportation provided if the worker completes employ

k e r ” Apply in person at nearest SWA, call520 866 3608 or fax res 520 836 5876

Caregiver Aide to assist Live-in Caregiver for Disabled man, wkdays, NS, Drv Lic, $10/hr S Chandler, Dan 480-786-5029

Business Banking Officer

Western State Bank is a 115 year old progressive financial institution with total assets of over $900 million and growing! Western has an opportunity for a h i g h l y m o t i v a t e d i n d i v i d u a l t o j o i n o u r w i n n i n g

t e a m a s Bu s i n e s s B a n k i n g O f f i c e r i n C h a n d l e r , A Z

T h i s i n d i v i d u a l w i l l b e r e s p o n s i b l e f o r g e n e r a t i n g b u s i n e s s t h r o u g h s u s t a i n i n g a n d s e r v i c i n g e x i s t i n g portfolios and/or developing new business for desi g n a t e d m a r k e t i n a c c o r d a n c e w i t h o u r o r g a n i z ation’s vision, core values, mission, team guidelines, and business plan This position will originate and manage a compliant and profitable portfolio Position is responsible to forge relationships with othe r i n t e r n a l d e p a r t m e n t s a s w e l l b u i l d s t r o n g t i e s within the community and maintain strong customer to ties in an effort to continue to build business P r e f e r r e d q u a l i f i c a t i o n s i n c l u d e a B a c h e l o r ’ s D eg r e e i n B u s i n e s s A d m i n i s t r a t i o n , F i n a n c e , o r B u s iness Management preferred with 2+ years of business banking experience

At Western State Bank, “what” you know is importa n t , b u t n o t a s i m p o r t a n t a s h o w y o u r e l a t e t o

t e a m m a t e s a n d c u s t o m e r s O u r e n v i r o n m e n t i s b a s e d o n t h e p r i n c i p l e s o f r e s p e c t , c u r i o s i t y c r eativity, individual empowerment, and the ability to listen effectively and communicate openly We also b e l i e v e i n c o n t i n u a l l e a r n i n g , b i a s t o w a r d a c t i o n , keeping commitments, and doing our absolute best every day We believe that our ability to deliver on our promise of being Your Hometo wn Bank is a result of these high standards This is a full time position with benefits (health, life, dental, vision, disability, 401k, and ESOP)

I f y o u a r e l o o k i n g t o c o n t r i b u t e y o u r e n e r g y a n d skills to a dynamic, collaborative, forward-thinking e n v i r o n m e n t , a n d p o s s e s s t h e e x p e r i e n c e d es c r i b e d a b o

Now hiring Janitors & Day Porters for Tempe, Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler & Gilbert The available positions are full time and part time, janitor positions starting at $10 25/hour and day porter positions starting at $11 00/hr If interested please apply in person at ACE Building Maintenance 7020 N 55th Ave Glendale AZ 85301 (623) 937-3727

Cash Management Officer

Western State Bank is a 115 year old progressive financial

Qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in business or finance-related field required with three (3) years of financial experience preferred

At Western State Bank, “what” you know is import-

ativity, individual empowerment, and the ability to listen effectively and communicate openly We also

keeping commitments, and doing our absolute best every day We believe that our ability to deliver on our promise of being Your Hometown Bank is a result of these high standards This is a full time position with benefits (health, life, dental, vision, disability, 401k, and ESOP)

Employment General

E r i c k s o n F r a m i n g A Z L L C 2 5 0 N B e c k A v e C handler AZ 85226 seeks 60 “ t e m p o

Phoenix Metroplex area to help carpenters use, supply& hold hand/electr tools &materials, clean w k a r e

Res constr, work in ext weather, no on-the-job train avail, no edu reqd, travel in Metropolita n area M-F 7am-3pm @$15 81/hr OT if needed @$23 72 from 4/1 to 12/15/17 US&H2B workers offered same wages& working conditions to i n c

computes wages Weekly pmt H-2B Wrkr to be paid U S Consulate, border, lodging fees on 1st

half the employment period Return transporta

ment period or is dismissed early by employer Tools provided at no charge to worker

Apply in person at nearest SWA, call 520 866 3608 or fax res 520 836 5876 Attn Desirae Diaz or fax

Construction worker, 6 temporary full-time positions

Duties: Perform tasks involving physical labor at building construction projects May operate hand and power tools of all types; air hammers, power saws, power drills and a variety of other equipment and instruments May clean and prepare sites May assist other craft workers. 3 month construction EXP REQ

No EDU REQ Drug testing REQ

Days & Hours: 40 hours/week (6:00am-2:30pm); day shift; Mon-Fri Dates of employment: 04/01/1712/31/17 Wage: $15 07 /h, OT $22 61 /h if necessary Raises, bonuses, or incentives dependent on job performance

Assurances: Transportation (including meals and, to the extent necessary, lodging) to the place of employment will be provided, or its cost to workers reimbursed, if the worker completes half the employment period Return transportation will be provided if the worker completes the employment period or is dismissed early by the employer Employer will provide workers at no charge all tools, equipment and supplies required to perform the job Job location Mesa, AZ - Maricopa and Pinal counties Employer will provide daily transportation to and from the worksite

Applicants may send or contact the AZDES Office, 4635 S Central Ave, Phoenix AZ, 85040 Desirae Diaz ph:520-866- 3608 Please reference AZDES Job Order #: 2526940

Employer: Hesscor, Inc 1548 E Main Street, Mesa, AZ 85203 Contact: Jason Meler, fax (480) 464-2705

Employment General

Law Firm seeks FINANCIAL and SYSTEMS OPERATIONS ANALYST

MBA and ACCT Cert a must 7-10 yrs exp in the legal field pref Knowledge in MS Office & Litigation

Software req Must have a strong tech bkgd Fax resume to 480 500-6672

Banner Medical Group seeks Hospitalist to work at Banner Gateway Medical Center in Gilbert, AZ Provides medical care to hospitalized patients Attends to patient needs through effective diagnosis, treatment, & documentation For full desc or to apply, send resume to David Samudio@ bannerhealth com ref# 7663

PHX Metroplex area to do manual &physical du-

wrk area Bend, lift&hold up 50Lb 3mo exp

n Res constr, work in ext weather, no on-the-job train avail, no edu reqd, travel in Metropolita n area M-F 7am-3pm @$ 15 81/hr OT if needed @$ 23 72 from 4/1 to 12/15/17 US&H2B workers offered same wages& working conditions to i n

computes wages Weekly pmt H2B wrkr to be paid U S Consulate,border,lodging fees on 1s t workwk on a company check

half the employment period Return transporta

ment period or is dismissed early by employer Tools provided at no charge to worker” Apply in person at nearest SWA, call520 866 3608 or fax res 520 836 5876 Attn Desirae Diaz or fax res

Landscape laborers, 60 temporary full-time positions

Duties: Laborers wil be needed for turf care, pruning, fertilization, irrigation systems maintenance and repair, general clean up procedures around properties Outdoor work physical work 3 months landscape EXP REQ No EDU REQ

Days & Hours: 40 hours/week (6:00am-2:30pm); day shift; Mon-Fri Dates of employment: 04/01/1711/30/17 Wage: $11 74 /h OT $17 61 /h if necessary

Raises, bonuses, or incentives dependent on job performance

Employer will provide daily transportation to and from the worksite

Employment General

Property Caretaker

Accessible Space, Inc a national non-profit provider of housing to individuals with disabilities seeks experienced Part-Time Caretaker (up to 20 hours/week) for an apartment building in Mesa, AZ

Caretaker duties include apartment turns, cleaning, painting and minor maintenance

Competitive hourly wage + PT benefits!

Two bedroom unit avail on site for $300/mo.

Apply online at www accessiblespace org or fax resume to HR (651) 645-0541 Reference job code 900 when applying

EOE/AA

Garage Sales/ Bazaars

COMMUNITY

GARAGE

SALE

Sat only Feb 25 7am-1pm

Sossaman/Baseline

SunLand Village East

Active Adult Comm 2145 S Farnsworth

Huge Rummage Sale

Fountain Hills

Presbyterian Church 13001 Fountain Hills Boulevard

Friday & Saturday Fri Feb 17th & 18th 7am-2pm Raffle for 48" Flat Screen TV Credit Cards Accepted

WELLS FLEA MARKET Feb 18 from 7 a m -1 p m Silent Auction raffle, boutique, clothing, housewares, furniture, books, decor, sports, garden Coffee and Pastries for breakfast Hot sandwich, beverage and pie for lunch. 5735 E MCDOWELL RD MESA

Wanted to Buy

Land/Acreage/

Applicants may send or contact the AZDES Office, 4635 S Central Ave, Phoenix AZ, 85040 Desirae Diaz ph:520-866- 3608 Please reference AZDES Job Order #: 2527045

Employer: Carescape, Inc 13370 W Foxfire Drive, Suite 101, Surprise, AZ 85378 Contact: Roger Opitz, fax (623) 583-8500

seal joints btween plasterboard/wallboard, prep wall surface Bend, lift&hold up 50Lb, 3mo exp in Res constr, work in ext weath-

travel in Metropolitan area M-F 7am-3pm @$ 16 97/hr OT if needed @$ 25 46 from 4/1 to 12/15/17. US&H2B workers offered s

clude paid post-hired drug test Sgle wrk -

w k c o m p u t e s w a g e s W e e k l y p m t H 2 B

w r k r t o b e p a i d U S C o n s u l a t e , b o r d e r , lodging fees on 1st workwk on a company check “Transportation (including meals & t o t h e e x t e n t n e c e s s a r y l o d g i n g ) t o p l a c e of employment or its cost to workers reimb u r s e d , i f t h e w o r k e r c o m p l e t e s h a l f t h e employment period Return transportation provided if the worker completes employm e n t p e r i o d o r i s d i s m i s s

d e a r l y b y e mp l o y e r T o o l s p r o v i d e d a t n o c h a r g e t o w o r k e