East Valley Tribune: Gilbert Edition - April 23, 2017
BY JIM WALSH Tribune Staff Writer
Todd Heap ranks as one of Mesa’s most acclaimed athletes, starring at Mountain View High School and Arizona State University before he became a two-time Pro Bowl tight end with the Baltimore Ravens and Arizona Cardinals. But while Heap achieved many accolades on the football field, one terrible moment on the afternoon of April 14, when he accidentally
Sympathy pours in for Heaps after accident ... Page 20
ran over and killed his 3-year-old daughter in his Las Sendas driveway, has plunged Heap to depths of heartbreak that few can fathom. Although it is of no consolation at such a tragic moment, Heap is far from the only parent to accidentally run down a child. Little Holly Heap’s death is yet another example of a type of accident that happens too frequently from visibility issues created by the dangerous
combination of small children and tall pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles.
Janette E. Fennell, founder and president of KidsandCars.org, said at least 42 children were killed in a similar manner in 2016, a type of collision known as a “front over.” Since the mid-1990s, more than 800 children have died in such accidents.
She said most vehicles have a front “blind zone” of six to eight feet, with the problem
Tall car, small child led to Heap tragedy High cost
Carrillo/Tribune Staff Photographer)
KimDani Bermudez and Paulina Nakagome, seniors at Arizona College Prep, pick out free prom dresses at the Cinderella Affair. The two are among many students around the East Valley coming to grips with the growing cost of high school proms. Story, Page 13.
Nurses seek site to care for drug-addicted newborns
BY SRIANTHI PERERA Tribune Staff Writer
As a neonatal nurse practitioner in a large medical center in the East Valley, Tara Sundem has seen too many babies having tremors, seizures, stiff limbs, difficulty sleeping and vomiting. These are the tiniest victims of the drug-
abuse epidemic sweeping the country. Their symptoms indicate neonatal abstinence syndrome – infants are in withdrawal from drugs, such as opioids, that were used by the mother during pregnancy.
In July 2015, the Arizona Department of Health Services said the rate of the syndrome has increased by 235 percent from 2008 and 27 percent since 2013.
“I always thought the downtown or the west side is associated with drug use. But it’s happening here, too,” said Sundem, a Gilbert resident.
On any given week, there are more than a dozen babies in withdrawal in East Valley hospitals.
(Kimberly
EAST VALLEY
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Chandler Police hope dog walkers keep an eye out for their neighborhood
BY BRENT RUFFNER Tribune Contributor
Chandler Police are launching a new program that lets residents curb crime with the help of their K-9 counterparts.
The Dog Walker Watch Program encourages residents to observe and report suspicious behavior during their daily dog-walking routine.
Police hope that the inclusion of the furry, four-legged friends can help the department form a partnership with the community to deter crime.
The program is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch and has been implemented in police stations across the nation.
“We can’t be everywhere all the time,” said Robin Atwood, a crime prevention officer. “We can’t post a police officer out on every corner.”
Atwood said more community involvement can help limit crimes such as vehicle burglaries, Chandler’s biggest crime trend. Some preventable crimes start with open, unattended garages and unlocked cars with valuables left in plain view.
The proactive approach is geared to focus attention on the resident’s surroundings rather than common distractions of talking, texting and listening to music. The program doesn’t require any additional time commitment outside the initial training – a bit different than regular meetings with traditional block watch groups.
Residents can anonymously call or text the department’s non-emergency number at 480-782-4130.
Chandler resident Ashley Schar said she likes the idea of having the program in the community.
“I unfortunately know a lot of people who have been attacked or assaulted in places they feel safe,” Schar said.
“Crime is everywhere and so are bad people,” she said. “People that have a routine know what is normal in their neighborhood. When people know what to look for and start paying better attention, they can continue to make their neighborhoods safe.”
So far, there has been a positive response on social media. A Facebook post announcing the program garnered more than 60 likes and 30 shares within a few
days.
Some residents said they planned to post information about the program in community newsletters.
Anysia Jaramillo, a Chandler resident, said she’s interested in learning about the program. She said her neighbors are friendly and look out for one another. She said she feels protected with her dog, Voodoo, a Belgian Malinois.
“I want to be educated as far as what’s going on in my community and staying informed,” Jaramillo said.
Resident Heidi Ross said she plans on participating in the program with her neighbor’s German shepherd puppy. She said she has used the police department’s non-emergency number to report suspicious behavior in the past.
“These innovative programs help keep this growing city feel more connected and neighborly – more willing to help each other out, if needed,” Ross said. “Dogs are natural magnets for people to meet each other. So, I think this a fun opportunity to make an impact.”
Ross said the police department has been receptive to community members and is “truly our community partner” in Chandler.
She said community involvement helps stunt crime.
“When neighbors are out, aware and active in their communities, if something seems suspicious, crime is less likely to
thrive there,” Ross said.
Atwood said she hopes the program complements the police department’s “See Something, Say Something” Campaign. If you have a tip, police recommend explaining the nature of your call when reporting suspicious behavior and being able to let the operator know your location and physical description of any possible suspect.
Atwood said police depend on the public’s awareness to help make the community safe.
“If you do identify something that looks suspicious, contact us,” Atwood said. “That’s the biggest thing.”
Chandler Police plan to eventually partner with a company to help get the word out about the program.
Schar said simply being aware can help out in a big way.
“Situational awareness is something that a lot of people lack these days – especially our generation of kids growing up immersed in their cellphones,” Schar said. “If you could save a life or a family from being burglarized just by getting trained on what to look for, why wouldn’t you?” Training sessions are scheduled at 6 p.m. Monday, April 24, and again at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 29, at Chandler Heights Precinct, 4040 E. Chandler Heights Road. For more information, email robin.atwood@chandleraz.gov or call 480-782-4962.
(Brent Ruffner/Tribune Contributor)
Chandler residents Anysia Jaramillo (left) and Tori Brennan pose with their Belgian Malinois, Voodoo and Karma, at the Paseo Vista Recreation Area on McQueen Road. Jaramillo said she’s interested in receiving more information about the Dog Walker Watch Program.
Biggs, Sinema share views on Washington politics
BY PAUL MARYNIAK Tribune Executive Editor
Dwithin their own party – on any deal that might avert a government shutdown when the U.S. officially runs out of money on Friday, April 28.
They noted that because Congress has been on its spring break, they don’t expect to know anything before Wednesday –Sinema said probably not until Thursday, April 27.
on’t anticipate President Trump’s “skinny budget” becoming law; expect continued acrimony between the leadership of both major parties in Congress and hope the White House develops a strategy for dealing with rogue nations and other international security threats.
Those were the thoughts echoed by two local members of Congress on opposite ends of the political spectrum who participated in a 75-minute dialogue during the East Valley Partnership’s annual Statespersons Luncheon last week.
As for the longer-term 2017-18 annual budget that Congress theoretically is supposed to approve by the end of June, both doubted one would materialize.
Biggs called Trump’s “skinny budget” – dubbed partly because it omits a lot of detail – “aspirational,” and that he doubted it would be approved despite the fact his party controls Congress.
Sinema was more blunt: “What hasn’t changed is the math,” referring to House Speaker Paul Ryan’s lack of enough votes.
Both second-term Democrat Kyrsten Sinema, whose district includes Phoenix, and freshman Republican Andy Biggs, whose district includes a large part of the East Valley, shared a surprising number of views about what they see – and aren’t seeing – in Washington, D.C.
In some ways, it may not be surprising that the two found agreement on so many points despite their widely disparate political views, since Sinema and Biggs were both state legislators for about a decade.
“We’re going to have trouble getting any budget done,” Biggs added.
Biggs seemed to have been shocked by a kind of casual attitude toward spending even within his own party.
He recalled how one fellow Republican wanted to spend $30 million to create an agency that would look at the regulations promulgated by other federal agencies and then advise Congress which regulations should be abolished.
Both bemoaned the lack of bipartisanship in both chambers of Congress, but said that was largely driven by the party leadership and that relationships between lower-level representatives were often on friendlier terms. They also said TV focused on the bickering because that’s what producers find more interesting.
“TV prefers a train wreck, and Congress will provide one every day,” Sinema said, adding that some of the partisan moves by her party’s leaders in the Senate have left her “heartbroken” because they will continue to thwart cooperation on the big issues that Congress should resolve.
Biggs said he was one of 50 freshman members of Congress from both parties who signed an agreement to maintain civil relationships, but said that among the party leadership “those divides are really big.”
Both officials also complained about the absence of communication – even
He said he went up to one colleague and said, “That’s our job,” but that colleague ridiculed him for thinking $30 million was a lot of money.
Biggs and Sinema both expressed concern and agreement over what they called the absence of a cohesive strategy for dealing with rogue nations and other terrorist threats.
On issues affecting Arizona in a more immediate way, both Sinema and Biggs said Congress has been slowly eliminating a number of regulations that hurt innovation by businesses.
As for Trump’s promised program to improve infrastructure, Biggs said Arizona needs “a lot of shovel-ready projects” in order to grab as much money from the program, which has not been detailed yet.
REP. ANDY BIGGS
REP. KYRSTEN SINEMA
THE WEEK AHEAD
Church prepares teacher appreciation packages for service event
Central Christian Church will pack gifts for teachers 8 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 27, at its Gilbert campus, 965 E Germann Road.
The public is invited help assemble the gift bags, which will include gift cards, candy, handwritten thank-you notes and more.
The church will follow up Sunday, April 30, with a day of service to teachers at more than 65 schools across the Valley, including Mesa, Gilbert, Ahwatukee and Queen Creek.
STAFF REPORT
Scientists gathering to debate life on other planets
Scientists from around the country will meet in Mesa this week to discuss the origins of life and the existence of life on other planets in a conference sponsored by the Foundation for Applied Molecular Evolution and the John Templeton Foundation.
While the AbSciCon 2017 conference itself is open only to scientists, a panel of 10 scientists will hold a free public talk on how they are using organic chemistry and geology to understand the origin of life.
The panel discussion is 5:30-7 p.m. Monday, April 24, in the Palo Verde Room at Mesa Convention Center, 263 N. Center St.
STAFF REPORT
West Mesa neighborhood forum stresses involvement
A neighborhood meeting is focusing on making a difference in West Mesa.
The forum, “You Can Make A Difference,” is at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 27, at Living Word Bible Church, 3520 E. Brown Road. West Mesa Community Development Corporation and the city of Mesa are sponsoring the event.
Strategic tabletop discussions for community members will be led by several Mesa councilmembers. The discussions will cover leadership styles, neighborhood communication and planning neighborhood events. A sharing of ideas and survey results will follow.
Information and registration: Executive Director Cynthia Dunham at cynthia. wmcdc@gmail.com.
most pronounced in tall pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles. In many cases, a parent is behind the wheel during such tragedies.
“I think everybody will agree that the worst thing that can happen to a parent is the loss of a child,” Fennell said. “Not only has the child died, but you are the person who killed the child.”
Most people are more familiar with the blind zone behind vehicles, which can be 15 to 60 feet, she said. Federal regulations require that all vehicles manufactured after May 2018 be equipped with rearview cameras as standard equipment.
Increasingly, technology in some new vehicles typically combines a forward collision-warning system with automatic braking. The systems beep when a collision with another car or pedestrian is imminent and will apply the brakes if necessary.
Detective Steve Berry, a Mesa police spokesman, said the tragic fatality occurred at 3:45 p.m on April 14 in the 7600 block of East Summit Trail, in a gated community.
He said the accident occurred when Heap drove his pickup truck forward, not noticing that his daughter was standing in the driveway, in the path of the vehicle. The little girl was taken to a hospital, where she died from her injuries.
Berry said that there was nothing suspicious about the circumstances involving the accident and that there were no signs impairment. The accident remains under investigation.
Heap and his wife, Ashley, have five children, including the victim, according to a variety of published reports. The couple is renowned for their generosity, including a pledge of $1 million in 2007 that helped launch the Todd Heap Family Pediatric Center at a hospital in Baltimore.
In a December 2015 story on the Ravens’ website, Heap explained his devotion to his family.
“Family has always been the most important thing in my life. And, now with my own, it’s even more important. It’s the most important calling in my life, to be a husband and father. I look at how my parents raised me, and I hope I can be as good as they are. Family was always ahead of football. I would place God first, family and then football. Football was a huge part of my life, but family is always bigger.”
When asked what makes him smile, Heap said, “I just got done jumping on the trampoline with my 2-year-old daughter, and it’s hard to get a bigger smile than that. I took all three of my boys golfing this morning. That was a lot of fun. [My wife] Ashley makes me smile every day. Family and all of the events we do, that regularly makes me smile.”
Fennell said it’s possible to look at Heap’s tragedy and to learn from it to spare the lives of other children.
“It’s a tragedy that breaks your heart,” he said.
“This could be a teachable moment,” Fennell said, adding that her condolences go out to Heap and his family. “Everyone knows he would never put his child in harm’s way.”
She said her best advice for parents is to walk around their pickup truck or SUV before moving it, and to make sure children are in sight and are supervised by an adult. Sometimes, excited children will run outside to say goodbye to a parent who is driving away, making themselves prone to serious injury or even death.
Holly Heap’s tragic death was not the first time a Mesa family experienced such a heartbreaking loss. On June 28, 2005, Eric Quick was driving his SUV into
his garage in the 2300 block of East Fox Street when he accidentally struck and killed his daughter, Tiffany, who was only 20 months old.
The Mesa neighborhood supported the Quicks, according to published reports, by cooking meals and cleaning the family’s house.
Michele Quick, Tiffany’s mother, recounted the horror she experienced that day in a testimonial featured on Fennell’s organization’s website. She explained how her husband was moving a 1999 Chevrolet Suburban into the garage, out of the sun, to keep the seats cool before taking the children for a trip to restaurant later that afternoon.
“Somewhere in the confusion while the kids and I went in the house to get their shoes on, our little 20-month-old Tiffany walked outside, anxious, I am sure, to help her daddy move the car in, or perhaps not understanding that he was not leaving, to give him one more kiss. That was it; it was over.
“Because of the height and size of our SUV and her small size, he did not know she was there. I have nightmares of hearing him scream into the house, ‘CALL 911, CALL 911.’ I knew, I knew that she was gone,” Michele Quick wrote. “As I was on the phone with 911, he came in and screamed that she was dead. DEAD? I thought how could this be? I
had just been holding this little beautiful girl. WHY?”
Russ Rader, a spokesman for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, said technology is increasingly available to prevent such tragedies. Carmakers often combine forward collision warning systems with an automatic braking system.
He said most safety features usually are introduced on luxury cars and eventually percolate down to all vehicles. A study by the Institute recently determined that automatic braking systems eliminate an estimated 50 percent of rear-end collisions with other cars.
The forward collision-warning systems typically combine sensors, cameras and lasers. They were initially targeted at avoiding rear-end collisions with other cars, but they are being fine-tuned to recognize pedestrians as well, Rader said. The auto industry has committed to making the systems standard equipment by 2022, with some companies voluntarily doing so on present models.
“If you are shopping for a new car, you should be looking for vehicles with these items,” Rader said. “They could not only avoid a fender bender, they could avoid a tragedy.”
Even if the system is part of a pricey package of features, “it’s well worth the money,” Rader said.
(Special to the Tribune)
Todd Heap (back, second from left) was inducted into the Baltimore Ravens Ring of Honor in September 2014. With him is his family, and in the stroller is his daughter Holly, who was killed April 14.
(Special to the Tribune) Ravens tight end Todd Heap goes out for a pass while covered by Cardinals safety Adrian Wilson during a game in Baltimore on September 23, 2007.
THE WEEK IN REVIEW
Fire damages two hangars at Chandler airport
Two hangars were damaged April 15 in a fire at Chandler Municipal Airport, Chandler officials say.
One small plane appeared to be damaged, said Chandler Fire spokesman Blas Minor.
One firefighter was taken to Chandler Regional Medical Center with a minor elbow injury. No additional injuries were reported.
Chandler Municipal is one of the nation’s 50 busiest general aviation airports. Charter, transport and sightseeing flights originate there.
TRIBUNE STAFF REPORT
Dignity Health wins $20,000 grant for children’s oral health
Dignity Health Children’s Dental Clinic in Chandler has been awarded $20,000 by Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation.
Nearly $500,000 was distributed to 29 Arizona community groups in Delta Dental’s first quarter 2017 grant awards. The groups serve high-risk children and families, pregnant mothers, dental health awareness programs and regional oral health coalitions.
The grant funds will be used to provide 200 preventive appointments at the clinic, oral health education for 1,400 children in community locations and 250 screenings and fluoride varnish applications for children ages 6-18 in community locations.
The Dignity Health Chandler Care Center is at 777 E. Galveston Road.
TRIBUNE STAFF REPORT
4 finalists named for new Mesa police chief
Four finalists for the police chief’s position have been named, and Mesa City Manager Chris Brady has scheduled for May 4 a community open house where residents can meet the finalists.
The finalists include Interim Police Chief Mike Dvorak, who served as an assistant chief for many years. They also include Robert Davis, a law enforcement consultant who formerly served as San Jose police chief; Jose Banales, chief of the Texas State University police; and Ramon Batista, assistant Tucson police chief.
Two diverse community panels, representing neighborhood, civic and business interests, recommended the four finalists.
The open house is scheduled for 5-7 p.m. May 4 at the Mesa Convention Center’s Palo Verde Ballroom, 263 N. Center St.
ASU Prep to offer charter school on Compadre Academy campus in Tempe
BY PAUL MARYNIAK Tribune Executive Editor
Afree public charter school will be part of the Compadre Academy campus next year under an agreement between Tempe Union High School District and Arizona State University Preparatory Academy.
The agreement, approved unanimously by the school board April 5, gives students another option to improve their readiness for college or a career on a campus that houses a nontraditional high school for students who are behind in the required number of credits needed to graduate or who are returning to high school after dropping out.
“ASU Prep students have earned top results within the Cambridge International Curriculum, achieved a 98 percent four-year graduation rate and its graduating class of 2017 is 100 percent admitted to post-secondary study or military service,” the district says on its website.
A briefing paper prepared in January 2006 by Principal Eduardo Flores states that while Compadre serves the
Southeast Valley, “a slight majority” of its approximately 400 students come from Guadalupe or Tempe Union’s other six high schools.
“Compadre’s forte is building relationships and establishing intervention plans for students who need academic, behavioral and parenting support,” Flores wrote.
While the board and district officials have held at least five meetings to
“We are doing something different,” he told board members. “Doing something different isn’t always popular. I ask we be courageous tonight.”
On the other hand, board member Sandy Lowe said the arrangement “gives students more individualized learning, the ability to take world languages, have electives and honors classes.
“I’m so excited for them,” she added. “I’m excited for our staff to work with
personalized approach to learning that includes, “a high use of innovative learning technology, the flexibility to work at your own pace, a collaboration of highly qualified teachers and rigorous online coursework, the opportunity to accelerate course taking and advance toward university courses,” according to its website.
ASU Preparatory Academies are open-enrollment charter schools that don’t charge tuition or administer entrance exams.
Under the agreement, ASU Prep will enroll approximately 100 students in grades 9-12 in its first year, growing enrollment to 400 students over time.
discuss Compadre’s makeover, Tempe Union Superintendent Kenneth Baca appeared apprehensive at the April 5 meeting about public reaction to the ASU agreement.
Stating “always in the forefront of my mind are the best interests of students,” Baca told the board that the agreement “creates a national model for students who often are marginalized.”
ASU staff.”
ASU Prep already operates nine campuses for about 2,200 students. But eight campuses are divided into two sets of preschools, elementary, middle and high schools in Phoenix and on the east Mesa campus of ASU Polytechnic.
The ninth is ASU Prep Casa Grande, which is the likely model for Compadre. It serves grades 9-12 and offers a
The district said it will offer “a rigorous college-preparatory program that includes ASU courses for college credit, as well as a digital curriculum infused with the acclaimed Cambridge framework, delivered in a personalized, blended learning format.”
Tempe Union will retain ownership of the physical campus and will have the option to continue offering its teen adolescent pregnancy program, Head Start, infant room and Desert Heights Academy at Compadre.
NEONATAL
“Five or six years ago, we would see one or two patients a month,” she said. “Now, we see six to eight cases a day.”
Sundem, together with fellow neonatal nurse practitioner Kelly Woody of Ahwatukee Foothills, is establishing Hushabye Nursery, an outpatient recovery center for such babies in the Valley. It would provide a therapeutic and inviting environment of short-term medical care for the infants and their families as well as offer non-judgmental support, education and counseling.
The Technical Assistance Partnership of Arizona, which helps nonprofits be successful, is helping with a business plan and making connections.
The two nurses have also enlisted the support of Melissa Delaney, who is adept at fundraising, while health-care finance expert Antoinette Sheen is helping them navigate the rules, laws and regulations for establishing a new health-care provider and providing guidance on the financial plan.
Hushabye Nursery will be modeled on a similar recovery center in West Virginia called Lily’s Place. There’s just one other facility, in Seattle, which is centered more on foster care. Although the syndrome has skyrocketed around the country, there are only two facilities exclusively devoted to the care of these babies.
With a business plan ready, the nurses are looking for a site to be donated to the cause. There’s an empty state medical facility in Phoenix, but 18 other nonprofits are in the running to obtain it.
Ideally, the facility for Hushabye Nursery should be about 9,000 square
feet, Sundem said, and have space to host 12 beds with the possibility of increasing it to 16 beds in the future.
It would employ about 25 people, recruit volunteers and partner with community organizations. The center would also look into forming contracts with local nursing schools that could send its students for clinical experience.
Funding for Hushabye Nursery is going to be sought initially from private sources and fundraising. A local philanthropic organization has expressed interest in helping, as well.
Once the facility is up and running, organizers plan to get reimbursement from the state’s Medicaid agency, the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System.
Sundem and Woody believe that taking the babies out of a stimulating
neonatal intensive care unit of a hospital, where they’re usually placed, would be helpful for them.
The neonatal unit is usually a highenergy place with bright lights, beeping monitors and heightened activity, and is designed to take care of premature infants and babies with heart and respiratory problems, Sundem said. “Essentially, the babies with the
syndrome are healthy, big babies that are having to withdraw. They need a quiet, homelike environment that’s dark, with very minimal stimulation,” she said.
In Arizona, babies are given morphine to aid in the withdrawal process. While a healthy baby goes home within 48 hours, a drug-addicted baby needs about eight weeks to recover.
“When they withdraw, it’s hard, it’s painful, it’s heart-wrenching to watch them do the things to withdraw. They’re tremulous; they shake uncontrollably, they’ll have a fever intermittently, they’ll sweat, they’ll cry inconsolably. It’s not uncommon for them to get maybe five to 10 minutes of sleep just because they can’t give in,” she said.
The babies would first be stabilized in a large hospital before being transferred to Hushabye Nursery to continue their withdrawal. Some babies don’t need further care because they recover within 48 to 72 hours after birth.
For most mothers, having a baby who’s addicted is a turning point in their own lives, Sundem said.
“It’s a matter of us giving them the resources and the training and the education to try to make it so that the baby and the moms have the best outcomes,” she said. “It’s a start for both of them for a healthier life.”
(Srianthi Perera/Tribune Staff)
Neonatal nurse practitioners Kelly Woody (left) and Tara Sundem are concerned about the increased number of infants born with drugs in their system and have a plan to help.
Tempe seeks buried lines along portions of trolley route
BY PETER CHENG Tribune Staff Writer
Tempe officials are proposing to bury trolley wires at several points along the streetcar line.
The council wants to bury lines on Mill Avenue between University Drive and Rio Salado Parkway, including the two “gateway” intersections. The streetcars would be equipped with batteries to power them along those sections.
Officials’ desire to maintain clear sightlines over some Tempe neighborhoods challenged the project design team into “uncharted territory,” said Valley Metro CEO Scott Smith, adding that the city will have to pay the bill for the modification.
Tempe Mayor Mark Mitchell said there’s a reason for the effort in light of plans to add a trolley line: “We spend a lot of time trying to beautify our city. We’ve been trying to take down wires, but now we’re adding wires.”
Only Dallas and Nice, France use such a system, but Valley Metro officials say Tempe’s proposal is even more complicated than what is used in those cities.
And it could become even more complicated because former Tempe Mayor Neil Giuliano suggested earlier this month that another wireless section be added around the Gammage Curve.
“Gammage is, I think, clearly the most architecturally significant building in the city of Tempe,” he said, acknowledging that his own home faces the curve.
During a hearing earlier this month, the City Council was receptive to Giuliano’s request and asked the design team to explore the option.
Smith said such decisions are up to city officials but added, “As far as the analysis on Gammage Curve, once again that takes time and money.”
The design team – comprising representatives from Valley Metro, the Center for Transportation and the Environment and the city – presented four options to the council based on earlier studies and suggestions.
Councilmembers unanimously chose the most complicated option. Councilman Kolby Granville said that although he thought it was the best option, the money it will cost might be put to better use in the city’s Orbit
bus system.
The tentatively approved design calls for the pantograph – the boom connecting the streetcar to the overhead power lines – to be raised or lowered six times along the threemile route.
The addition of Gammage to the plan would increase boom operations to eight.
Each time the car goes off-wire, it adds significant costs, wear and tear on the equipment and batteries, and increases the possibility of damage to the system, Valley Metro warned.
“We know from Dallas that there can be some issues with operators forgetting to lower the pantograph or raising and lowering the
pantograph at the wrong time,” said Blake Whitson, project manager. “The number of times that you have to raise and lower the (pantograph) is important.”
Councilwoman Lauren Kuby also suggested that the team should re-examine the proposed Mill Avenue configuration.
She suggested that moving the streetcar from a shared general traffic lane to what is now a parking lane would reduce the times that the trolley is in battery mode.
The streetcars can only reliably operate on battery power for about 18 minutes, and there was concern that the heavy traffic on Mill might test that limit.
To further complicate things, federal funding for the project may be in jeopardy.
The original estimated capital cost $177 million included a $75 million federal grant.
“The current president’s budget eliminated that program for any district that does not have a signed, full-funding agreement, which we do not have,” said Smith. “Most of Congress says that that’s not going to play out.
The design team agreed to address the council’s concerns in time for its May 22 meeting, but Smith warned:
“The clock is ticking, just so you know. We need to make some decisions because we have engineers just waiting.”
(Special to the Tribune)
An artist's concept shows the proposed Tempe Streetcar alongside Valley Metro Light Rail. Tempe is now seeking to bury many of the streetcar overhead lines.
Cost of proms adds up, stresses out some EV teens
BY COLLEEN SPARKS Tribune Contributor
It’s the time of year when girls eagerly slip into glamorous evening gowns while their dates get gussied up in tuxedos to whisk them off to prom.
While high school students spend months excitedly planning how they will celebrate before, during and after the big dances, this rite of passage often comes with a high price tag.
Between buying dresses and renting or buying tuxedos, paying for upscale dinners, as well as renting limousines and party buses, teens in the East Valley often spend hundreds of dollars on the event.
Some of them save their money from part-time jobs, while others ask parents for help or find creative ways to cut costs, but having to come up with so much cash in a short time can be stressful. Others turn to organizations, schools and businesses that provide free or reduced-price dresses or suits and tickets to the dance.
Many teens say the financial strain is worth it as they can bond with friends at an elegant affair, sometimes the last such
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
MESA
Mesa electric utility survey addresses opinions on energy
Mesa’s electric utility, the Energy Resources Department, is working on a 10-year Integrated Resource Plan to examine the different options for providing energy to electric customers and is seeking citizen input through an online survey.
The city’s current power supply is 20 percent renewable hydroelectric power, and the remainder is composed of the sources that make up Arizona’s mix as a whole – nuclear, coal and natural gas.
Mesa receives its renewable hydroelectric power from the Western Area Power Administration and is required to complete the plan every five years.
occasion before graduation.
“I think everyone, like from when you’re in elementary (school), all you hear about is your prom,” Heidi Montgomery, a junior at Westwood High School in Mesa said.
I’m so excited,” added Montgomery, 16, who is junior class president on the student council. “I think it’s going to be great.”
She hoped to spend less than $150 on all her prom costs, with Westwood’s prom coming up May 6 at Ashley Castle in Chandler. Her game plan was to get help from her sister finding a good bargain on a dress.
Students, school administrators and parents in Chandler, Mesa and Tempe say teens spend from about $200 to $1,000 on prom. Teens on the student council at the campuses plan the events and do fundraising to cover the schools’ costs, with ticket sales paying for some expenses.
While the proms offer snacks and drinks, students are on their own for dinner. The dances are for juniors and seniors, but they can bring underclassman dates.
The five-minute survey is at surveymonkey. com/r/MesaEnergy. A Spanish version is at surveymonkey.com/r/MesaEnergyEsp.
Golf
tournament
to benefit breast cancer organization
The second annual MHG Golf Tournament to benefit My Hope Bag, a local nonprofit organization that supports the breast cancer community, is taking registrations at myhopebag.org.
The tournament will take place Friday, May 5, at Red Mountain Ranch Country Club, 6425 E. Teton Circle, Mesa. Check-in is at 6 a.m., and the shotgun start begins at 7:30.
The four-person scramble is $100 per golfer and includes golfing, continental breakfast, lunch and golf goodie bags. There will be a silent auction, raffle drawing and game prizes for golfers.
“From what I hear, everyone else says is it costs an arm and a leg,” Montgomery said. “I know a lot of people, who can’t afford to go.”
She said her mother wants her to enjoy her high school experience, so she’ll pay her prom expenses. Montgomery and her friends plan to eat at a restaurant that’s “nothing super-fancy” before the dance.
“Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” is the theme of Chandler Historical Society’s annual luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Friday, April 28, at the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Resort, 1 N. San Marcos Place.
This year’s guest speakers are Chandler Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and Chandler Unified School District Superintendent Camille Casteel. Chandler Museum staff also will present the plans for the new museum that will begin construction this fall.
Westwood High’s Silent Friends club, led by students, raises money to provide prom tickets to students in need. Tickets are $45 each for students who have a school activity card and $50 per student who don’t have one.
Every year, dresses donated from the community and former students are
There is a suggested donation of $30, and proceeds will provide support for history education, programs and exhibits at the Chandler Museum and scholarships at local schools.
Information and RSVP: Michel Larson at Michel.200@live.com or 480-201-5884.
Golf tournament to benefit Chandler school’s needy kids
The 2017 FIMC Broker’s Cup is Friday, April 28, at the San Marcos Golf Course, 100 N. Dakota St. in Chandler. The tournament will benefit from Galveston Elementary School in Chandler.
The event, sponsored by Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, also features a $50,000 hole-in-one prize.
This tournament will raise funds to feed 50 children in need from Galveston Elementary School in Chandler every weekend for a year. Information: FIMCBrokersCup.com.
(Kimberly Carrillo/Tribune Staff Photographer)
Audrey Cowley shows off a prom gown given away recently at the Cinderella Affair. The East Valley Women’s League offered formal dresses, shoes, purses and jewelry for free.
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given to Westwood girls who could not afford them otherwise, said Westwood Silent Friends club sponsor, Student Council advisor and English teacher Cheri Guy. She said more than 30 dresses were available for girls this year.
“We do believe in trying to make sure every student has the opportunity, regardless of circumstance,” Guy said.
Students at Mountain View High School in Mesa are trying to figure out how to save money for their prom on April 29 at The Falls Event Center in Gilbert. Tickets cost $45 a person.
“It definitely is the most expensive dance we have at our school,” said Mountain View senior and student body vice president MD Suffian Tazbir, who’s known as “Taz.” “Students usually start saving up starting at the beginning of the year.”
Tazbir has saved money, but he got two free tickets to the dance because he’s
BRIEFS
Chandler installing more flashing yellow left-turn signals
By the end of the year, most Chandler intersections with turn arrows will be equipped with a flashing yellow left-turn signal.
A federal grant for $633,281 is funding 77 percent of the cost to add the signals to 59 intersections. Fourteen Chandler intersections currently use the flashing yellow turn arrows.
The arrows are approved by the Federal Highway Administration and have been shown in studies to heighten driver awareness when turning left in front of oncoming traffic. They also provide more opportunities to make left turns at intersections than with the traditional left-turn arrows.
TEMPE
Tempe transit professional recognized with state award
The late R.C. Noderer of Tempe was given the Honorary Outstanding Transit Individual Award recently at Arizona’s 30th Annual Transit Conference.
Noderer worked for Tempe in various transit capacities for 20 years and was a mentor to many young transit professionals.
His daughter, Michelle Revie, accepted the award given by the Arizona Transit Association and the Arizona Department of Transportation.
on the student council.
Rebekah Baird, Mountain View senior class president, 18, is borrowing a dress for prom.
Rather than getting a corsage, she’s going to buy flowers for about $20 to make a flower crown.
“I think that you can make it however expensive and however cheap you want,” Baird said.
Red Mountain junior Gabe Quattlebaum, 17, junior class boy representative on the student council, said it likely will cost about $300 to go to prom, including buying his date dinner and a corsage, as well as renting a limousine with friends.
He works a part-time job but isn’t worried about the money.
“My mom’s a surgeon; my dad’s a lawyer,” Quattlebaum said. “It’s pretty much like nothing if they give me $300.”
Some businesses in Mesa are offering discounts on tuxedo and suit purchases and rentals including LeSueur’s Tuxedos on South Mesa Drive, which advertised
Campfire open house planned by Scout troop
Boy Scout Troop 697 is holding an open house campfire for East Valley boys 11-17 years old at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 25, at St. James Episcopal Church, 975 E. Warner Road, Tempe.
Free s’mores will be provided, along with information about the Scouts and the troop.
Information: Scoutmaster Chris Bradley at cmbradley@cox.net or bsatroop697.com.
EAST VALLEY
Red Cross chapter to honor 2 East Valley volunteers
Two East Valley residents will be honored April 29 by the American Red Cross Greater Phoenix Chapter for their outstanding volunteer work.:
Chandler resident Anna Cheng, a BASIC Chandler High senior, will be given the International Humanitarian Service Award. Cheng, 18, has donated about 300 hours as a Red Cross volunteer for four years.
Mesa resident Marcia Servis, a retired Mesa Schools teacher, will be given the Bill Bombeck Disaster Volunteer of the Year Award. Servis, 64, has donated nearly 8,000 hours as a Red Cross volunteer for eight years.
They are among 10 Valley residents honored during the Red Cross annual volunteer awards ceremony April 29 at the Phoenix Zoo.
Information: Red Cross Greater Phoenix Chapter, 602-336- 6660 or RedCross.org/ Arizona.
$40 off tuxedo rentals.
Pomeroy’s Men’s and Missionary store on West Main Street is selling men’s suits for 20 percent off the regular price, or customers can buy one suit and get the second suit half-off through August 1.
In Chandler, hundreds of girls in need got free prom dresses at the Cinderella Affair, held earlier this spring in an office space converted into a boutique. The East Valley Women’s League gave away formal dresses, shoes, purses and jewelry.
Prom costs weighed heavily on the mind of Leisly Argota, 16, junior class president at Marcos de Niza High School in Tempe. Single tickets for Marcos’ prom, which was held April 22 at 12 West Main, a venue in Mesa, were $45 per single student and $80 for couples.
“In my situation, it is stressful because dresses are super-expensive and I haven’t had time to go check them out,” Argota said weeks before the big dance. “My group of friends, they’re stressing about it because they don’t have jobs.”
FlowRider competition set between Mesa, Tempe
The Desert Wave Invitational is Saturday, April 29, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Rhodes Aquatic Complex & FlowRider, 1860 S. Longmore, Mesa.
The Mesa Police Department and the Mesa Fire and Medical Department are challenging the Tempe Police Department and Tempe Fire Medical Rescue Department to raise money for the 100 Club of Arizona. The event will include a raffle featuring prizes donated by the East Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Tempe Chamber of Commerce.
Families will also swim for free.
Information: Jared Archambault at 480644-6275 or jared.archambault@mesaaz.gov.
Empowerment for women is topic for conference
East Valley women can learn how to “live the life they choose” at the 2017 Phenomenal Woman Empowerment Network Conference 10 a.m.-5 p.m. May 6 at the Arizona Grand Resort in Ahwatukee.
The sixth annual conference «is designed to celebrate, educate and motivate dynamic women on all levels,» said network founder Sharisse Erby-Castle, adding:
“This event is about learning to get past selfdoubts and other behaviors to help women give themselves permission to succeed.”
Information: mypwen.online, pwen1@ hotmail.com or 480-228-3125.
Indoor playground turns exercise into play for kids
BY RALPH ZUBIATE Tribune Managing Editor
Screaming kids running around, jumping and bouncing.
That’s music to the ears of David Allen, general manager of a new indoor playground called Urban Jungle Fun Park, at 5741 E. McKellips Road in Mesa.
The play place opened in March and has been busy ever since.
The first Urban Jungle is in Santee, California. The Mesa location is the company’s second.
“We were looking at California, Arizona and Nevada for a new location,” Allen said. “We wanted to move into a warmer climate, where we knew we’d have business in summer.”
The giant playground, at 18,000 square feet and three levels, is filled with places for kids to explore.
The Urban Jungle website describes the indoor playground as a “metropolis packed with a multitude of adrenalinefilled activities built for kids of all ages.”
“We have about eight rock walls, a ninja course, punching bags, pogo sticks, three slides,” Allen said, listing only some of the play spaces.
A special location for toddlers is located behind a tall door with a latch high up so only a parent can reach. That way, toddlers don’t wander off.
Allen said Urban Jungle covers everything in padding for protection.
“We try to make everything soft, because that limits accidents as much as possible,” he said.
“The only crying we see is because kids are being taken home and don’t want to leave.”
Kids are playing and learning at the same time, he said.
“We like to think the kids learn life lessons here,” Allen said. “They come back and try again, like with the climbing wall.”
As he was giving a tour, Allen pointed to a girl all rigged up to climb.
“I told that girl that if she could make it all the way up, I’d give her some free passes. She’s been trying all day. She doesn’t want to give up.
“Our employees try to encourage every kid like that,” he said.
Just then, a child dropped down a slide.
“Awesome! Yeah!”
One girl walked by and told Allen, “You should have a spaceship!”
Like most indoor play places for kids, Urban Jungle can host birthday parties.
“We can have about 38 birthday parties in a day,” Allen said. “We have three rooms and a VIP room. One-third of our business is birthday parties.”
But parties and free play days are only extras. Urban Jungle has a bigger goal in mind.
“We want to get kids off the couch and stop the computer games,” Allen said, emphasizing the exercise part of the playground.
Eventually, Urban Jungle would like to introduce some high-tech to the experience.
“We’re going to try something called FitPlay,” Allen said.
According to a statement from Urban Jungle’s CEO and founder, Bob Krause, “Our goal is to merge together a dynamic adventure park with our
innovative FitPlay program that provides adrenaline-filled physical challenges, high-intensity cardio activities and agility-based obstacle routes, tunnels and courses, adapted for every ability level, that promotes health and fitness while having fun.”
What that means is Urban Jungle will eventually monitor kids’ play and see how to they can get more healthful exercise out of it.
The kids will wear body suits and will play for 90 minutes. They will be monitored for heart rate and calories burned. When they see the results, Urban Jungle hopes kids and their parents will be encouraged to play more.
Urban Jungle opened at spring break in March.
“We did a lot better than we thought,” Allen said. “We were hoping for 1,500 to 2,000, but we were getting 3,000plus in a day.”
“There are a lot of return visits. I’ve seen a couple of families come by three times in a week.”
Monday through Friday, prices at Urban Jungle run from $10 for 60
minutes of play to $14 for 120 minutes. On Saturday and Sunday, it’s $12 for an hour to $18 for two hours.
Kids 3-12 seem to be the primary customers, but teenagers are coming in to enjoy the atmosphere, too. Some parents climb into the spaces to play with their kids. They play for half price.
Another family-friendly option is a parents’ lounge all the way in back. Three massage chairs, sectional couches, three TVs and free Wi-Fi are available for waiting caregivers.
Kelly Hillis and Joy Galati, friends from Christ’s Church of the Valley, were relaxing in the parent room in back as their kids ran free. Hillis brought her children Ashlyn, 8, and Trent, 6. Galati brought grandson Noah, 6.
“I like to get them out to exercise,” Hillis said. “We usually go to the zoo or the park. This will be good for summer.
“They’re not going to get bored.”
Galati agreed, “This is wonderful. Especially when we found this room.”
(Kimberly Carrillo/Tribune Staff Photographer)
Jamie Williams, 10, climbs a rock wall at Urban Jungle Fun Park in Mesa.
(Kimberly Carrillo/Tribune Staff Photographer)
“We want to have the cleanest and friendliest funhouse in the nation,” said David Allen, general manager of Urban Jungle Fun Park.
Youth Entrepreneurs competition won by East Valley teams
Teams from the East Valley won the top spots at the Youth Entrepreneurs Mountain West Region’s Big Ideal Competition recently.
Students were given 2½ hours to find a solution to a problem and prepare their pitch. This year’s challenge was how to reach a younger group of people for the mission-driven adventure travel company Adventure for Charity, which is based in Arizona.
First-place winner was a team from Desert Hills High of Gilbert. Ruby Cruz, Sara Jenson and Dylan Cartwright won $750 each.
Second place was a team from Sun Valley High in Mesa. Mekyla Talayumtewa, Cheyanne Higgins and Jason Feerer won $500 each.
Mesa university opens osteopathic center
A.T. Still University Osteopathic Medicine Center Arizona has opened at 5845 E. Still Circle in Mesa.
Doctors there will provide osteopathic manipulative treatment to address a variety of problems, including injuries related to sports or the performing arts. The center will also offer specialized services for children with special needs. Information and scheduling: 480-248-8198.
AlphaGraphics, Brand X merge, announce contest
AlphaGraphics on University has acquired Tempe-based Brand X Custom T-Shirts.
To celebrate the move, they are offering a brand makeover worth $25,000. The rebrand prize includes a $15,000 brand
refresh including a new logo, brand story and collateral design. AlphaGraphics on University will provide a $10,000 custom package of printed materials, which the winner can choose from custom apparel, signage, printed collateral and other select products.
Businesses are asked to submit a 450word summary detailing why they are deserving of the brand refresh and how they plan to execute. Submissions can be entered at AZBrandMakeover.com before May 11, and finalists will be interviewed before the final decision is made May 18.
Goodwill merges operations in Central, Northern Arizona
Goodwill Industries of Central Arizona and Goodwill Industries of Northern Arizona have combined operations.
The new organization will be called Goodwill of Central & Northern Arizona and will include 82 stores, three clearance centers, 22 career centers and will employ over 3,500 employees throughout the Phoenix metro area, Prescott, Yuma, Flagstaff, Sedona, Cottonwood, Kingman, Lake Havasu and Bullhead City.
Over the next few weeks, Goodwill will close the Northern Arizona stores one at a time for a few days, then re-open later in the week.
Chandler Chamber of Commerce celebrates its 105th year of service
The Chandler Chamber of Commerce, to mark its 105th year, will hand out birthday treats from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 27, at 25 S Arizona Place, Suite 201.
The Chandler Chamber of Commerce was founded in April 1912, just before the City of Chandler was incorporated.
Today, the Chandler Chamber of Commerce is at the First Credit Union Building on Arizona Place in historic
Chandler.
Press Coffee Roasters eyes new store in Tempe this spring
Press Coffee Roasters is opening a store east of ASU’s Tempe campus at 1221 E. Apache Blvd., at the Nexa Apartments.
The 1,300-square-foot space is expected to open in June. Press is currently hiring to fill barista and management positions. Applications can be submitted at any Press Coffee.
Rue21 clothing retailer closing Mesa store, hundreds of others
Clothing retailer Rue21 is closing its Mesa store amid 400 closures nationwide.
The planned closures come after reports that the privately held retailer had $824 million in debt. Rue21 specializes in young men’s and women’s apparel.
The store at Mesa Riverview will be closing.
ASU picks U-Haul leader as 2017 Executive of the Year
Edward J. “Joe” Shoen, a business leader with 30 years of executive experience, has been chosen the 2017 Executive of the
Year Award by Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business.
The award honors business leaders who have created and sustained superior organization performance, and whose presence exemplifies a model for future business leaders.
Shoe is president, chairman and CEO of AMERCO, the parent company of U-Haul International. He is the 34th executive of the year chosen by the Dean’s Council, a national group of prominent executives who advise the W. P. Carey School of Business.
Mesa traffic camera maker to be bought by LA firm
Mesa-based American Traffic Solutions, a traffic camera maker and operator, is being bought by a Los Angeles-based private-equity firm.
Platinum Equity did not disclose the financial terms of the deal. ATS, which moved from Tempe to Mesa in 2015, has about 450 employees in Mesa and about 200 more across North America.
The company has about 3,800 traffic cameras deployed throughout North America, including on traffic lights and school buses.
We were champions once … and we keep coming back for more
BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Tribune Columnist
The sickness hits me annually come mid-April. I scan the headlines, pore over the box scores, check the standings on the sports page. Then, the inevitable happens, as it did last Sunday for a halfhour.
I flip on a few innings of Diamondbacks baseball.
Maybe this occurred because it was Easter and I had “He has risen” on my mind. Or maybe I am nothing if not hard-headed, a man incapable of admitting the truth even when it’s staring him in the face.
To be an Arizona sports fan is to be doomed to suffering. Let’s face it: Our professional sports franchises, of which there are four, are not exactly racking up championships at a furious pace.
Currently, 13 major metro areas host professional baseball, basketball,
Pass the texting bill
Distracted driving is something many Americans do every day. It’s also something that costs the country billions of dollars and, more importantly, costs people their lives.
In 2015, an estimated 400,000 people were injured or killed on American roads due to distracted driving – and at least 36 of those deaths were on Arizona roadways. Recently, I worked at Reality Rides, a distracted driving simulator that Allstate brought to the NCAA Final Four Fan Fest at the Convention Center in Phoenix as part of our national public awareness campaign about the dangers of distracted driving. We put thousands of NCAA fans in the driver’s seat so they could safely experience first-hand the dangers of distracted driving.
Overwhelmingly, the Reality Rides participants – many of them teenagers with their parents standing right beside them – said after experiencing the simulator that they would never text and drive again, and that they would encourage others to not text and drive. I truly hope that they remember those vows long after they are out of their parents’ eyesight. If we save just one life, it’s worth it.
And yet Arizona is still one of only four states in the country that does not have a statewide texting and driving ban. Although it may be years before we take that step, let’s at least take the very first step to help train young drivers not to engage in this dangerous behavior. Currently, the Arizona House is considering SB 1080,
football and hockey teams. Each of our dozen rival metros boasts at least five championships, except for Minneapolis, which has only two Twins World Series crowns to show for its efforts. The Valley? We have one championship –that magical 2001 Diamondbacks win over the New York Yankees.
How sad is that? Even noted meccas like Milwaukee, Tampa and Anaheim, which don’t have all four sports, have two titles to their name.
Then there’s New York, which has won an absurd 46 professional sports championships dating back to the 1903 World Series. Boston? 36 titles. Chicago? 27. Even Philly, a town that prides itself on its capacity to suffer, has nine championships to its name.
Still, we Arizonans keep coming back for more. On Sunday, the Dbacks beat the Dodgers 3-1. As I write, the team is 10-6, good enough to tie for first place in the National League West. Unlike last year’s squad, which floundered early, the 2017 version has shown signs of life, enough
to get me to a TV. Does that make me a front-runner, a bandwagon fan? Indeed. Because I have been disappointed far too many times to continue to be a die-hard fan – short for fanatic – in the face of inevitable adversity.
The Suns lost me circa 2012, when they dismantled the most exciting team in basketball more thoroughly than the Trump Administration firing Obama appointees. The Cardinals never really had me. I retain a professional interest in the Arizona Coyotes’ future, given that the team has for years been a client of mine. Each franchise demands my attention as their fortunes flow and ebb, but my scarred heart after two decades of crushed dreams simply cannot take any more disappointment.
And yet, if you asked me about my fondest memory of 22 years living here, my mind would surely track back to the big baseball stadium downtown, to a November night in 2001, to the seventh game of one of the greatest World Series ever played. I sat high in
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
which would make it illegal for new teen drivers to use hand-held communication devices in the first six months of getting their license.
Allstate supports this bill; I’m a small-business owner in Arizona who helps insure thousands of families with new young drivers and I support this bill. Let’s get it passed. If young people never get used to texting and driving in the first place, we can instill good driving habits from the start.
Together, we can save lives, make Arizona roadways safer and put us all in better driving hands.
– Jacque Riggs – Chandler
Biggs’ town halls disappointing
Last week, Congressman Andy Biggs held two “town halls.” I use quotes as these were not open forums, but heavily regulated events where constituents battled censure to try and have their voices heard.
On Friday, in the retirement community of Sun Lakes, Rep. Biggs had 11 fully armed sheriff’s deputies surrounding the 200 or so constituents. Perhaps he was afraid he would be attacked by an elderly voter. I left feeling that Rep. Biggs doesn’t care about, and is afraid of, his constituents.
Maricopa County Attorney General Bill Montgomery reigned over the room like a prison warden. Staffers collected questions ahead of time and would not allow constituents to hold the microphone or ask follow-up
questions. Anytime anyone got even remotely off their question or tried to clap, Montgomery would yell at constituents. We were forced to sit in silence as the congressman said things that we knew were not true or went on long diatribes not related to the question asked.
In all, only about 10 questions were asked. Biggs immediately fled the room after the last question to avoid the disappointed voters. This is in stark contrast to Jeff Flake’s town hall, where he answered three hours of questions and spoke with constituents afterward.
Voters of Congressional District 5 deserve better. We deserve a representative who treats us with respect and cares about our opinions. Last week, Rep. Biggs proved he is not that person.
– Lauren Ghazikhanian – Gilbert
Against expansion of vouchers
Gov. Ducey, state senators, and state representatives, I am an Arizonan, high-efficacy Republican voter, school board member, mother, and grandmother.
To all Democrats and Republicans who voted against the expansion of vouchers, I say thank you! To you Republicans who voted to expand vouchers so more students can attend private and religious schools, I say you put ideology and out-of-state campaign contributions ahead of Arizona’s children, state constitution, state budget and state economy.
The people of Arizona made their voices heard!
the stands above right field that night, when Luis Gonzalez blooped a soft game-winner over Derek Jeter’s head and the Diamondbacks vanquished New York four games to three. When the ball landed, I found myself bounding up and down uncontrollably and hugging the sweaty, 300-pound stranger in the row behind me.
We – this Valley, this land of heat, copper and desert – were champions once. We held a massive downtown parade. We lionized Gonzo, the Big Unit and Schilling. We gazed lovingly at that hideous Commissioner’s Trophy. We had our one lonely title.
Every year, come April, I tell myself that if it happened once, it can happen again. And I find myself before the TV, with the voice of Michael Corleone from the “Godfather III” in my head.
“Just when I thought I was out,” says the great Pacino, “they pull me back in.” Yes, yes they do.
– David Leibowitz has called the Valley home since 1995. Contact david@leibowitzsolo.com.
Over 459 individuals and organizations signed onto the legislative request to speak system against this bill. Of the 311 people who signed onto Arizona Voices to vote on this bill, 94.9 percent were strongly opposed and 2.3 percent opposed, which means that 97.2 percent were against the expansion of vouchers.
Our neighborhood community district schools were established by our state constitution. They are doing great work to educate all students and help them achieve! Please visit and see what they offer students and families. They are the schools chosen by 85 percent of our students! You should listen to the voice of the people!
– Jill Humpherys – Gilbert
Trump is unfit
What does it take to convince Trump supporters that this “poser” is unfit for the presidency? While we were all watching events with Russian intervention into our democratic processes, he and his sycophants were busy dismantling the EPA directives. So, which scenario will we all die from: air pollution or nuclear war???
– Rick Temple – Mesa
Sports
Queen Creek having stellar baseball season
BY CAELA FOX Cronkite News
The Queen Creek High School baseball team has a whole new atmosphere this season.
Under Mikel Moreno, who’s in his first year as coach, the Bulldogs are lighting it up. Moreno technically is in his second season as head coach. But he was deployed overseas in the military last year.
Moreno joined the Army in 2009, then transitioned to the Arizona National Guard in 2014. He serves as a captain in military intelligence.
Paul Reynolds, assistant principal and athletic director at Queen Creek, knew when he hired Moreno before last season that he could be deployed. So, he hired both Moreno and his best friend, Andrew Ramirez Jr. This ensured that there was someone to lead the team for the 2016 season.
Moreno was deployed to Kosovo in December 2015 and returned in November 2016. Last season, Ramirez coached the team, setting a new foundation and structure as the team went 14-15.
“Coach Ramirez, my assistant coach and also my best friend, took over for me. He laid the foundation. He did a great job,” Moreno said.
“Playing for us isn’t a walk in the park,” Moreno added. “So, he (Ramirez) did the dirty work last year and set the way we like to do things.”
Senior third baseman Jacob Kobernick said, “Our team chemistry is awesome. We’re all friends out here. There’s not a single person that’s doesn’t like the other. We just love playing together.”
The coaching staff has a very structured program, which is proving to be quite effective. With Moreno being in the military, it isn’t too surprising that he expects a lot from his players.
“He definitely pushes us to be our best,” Kobernick said.
Even though Moreno can be tough at times, his players say that he is what keeps this team together.
“The heart of this team is the coach.
He is very enthusiastic,” senior shortstop Kole Kaler said while pointing right at Moreno, who was pitching during batting practice.
Moreno graduated in 1994 from Mesa High School, where he played baseball and football. Then he was a starting outfielder for Arizona State University’s baseball team from 1996 to 1998.
During his time at ASU, Moreno helped the Sun Devils to the Atlantic Regional Final in 1997 and the College World Series against Miami in 1998. Moreno was drafted as a second baseman in the 22nd round of the 1998
amateur draft by the Chicago Cubs.
He played in the Cubs system in 19981999. His final pro season was in 2000 with the Valley Vipers, an independent team.
In 2004 and 2005, Moreno was head coach at Florence High School. Then from 2005-2009, he was an assistant coach at ASU and South Mountain Community College.
Moreno enlisted in the Army in 2009. He got out of active duty in 2014 and transitioned into the national guard. He taught at San Tan Foothills High School from 2014-2015, then got hired
at Queen Creek.
“The boys have really adjusted well and they’re doing phenomenal this year,” Moreno said. “They worked really hard in the off season.”
“I’m looking forward to playing with these kids trying to win a state championship and then maybe play collegiate ball after,” Kobernick said. Moreno said he’s not looking that far ahead.
“I’m just trying to win today and get better,” Moreno said. “I just try to get better myself, and I want my team to get better today.”
(Caela Fox/Cronkite News)
Queen Creek head coach Mikel Moreno walks off the mound after a pitching change against Centennial in Queen Creek.
Sympathy pours in online for Heaps after accident
BY JIM WALSH Tribune Staff Writer
Teammates, NFL football teams and fans were heartbroken to learn the sad news about the tragic death of Holly Heap, who was accidentally run over by her father, Todd Heap, in their Mesa driveway.
The fatality, which resonated around the nation and world, occurred when Heap pulled his pickup truck forward in the driveway of his Mesa home.
Heap was inducted into the Ravens Ring of Honor in 2014. He finished up his career with the Arizona Cardinals. He also starred for Mesa’s Mountain View High School and Arizona State University.
Many people referred to Heap’s devotion to his family and his deep Mormon faith. Todd and Ashley Heap are the parents of five children, including the victim. Following are some statements and comments published on Twitter and by other media sources: Joe Flacco, Ravens quarterback, on Ravens.com, on why he was planning to visit the Heaps on Thursday in Mesa.
“He’s a friend. Me and my wife want to be there for him.”
“The Heaps have contributed so much to the Arizona State Sun Devils, Baltimore Ravens, and Arizona Cardinals communities, and we hope their family, friends and our respective communities can provide them with love and support as they work through this unspeakable
heartbreak,” Arizona State University said in a statement.
“My heart is broken for Todd Heap and his family. One of the kindest persons I’ve ever met and a man who lives for his family,’’ tweeted former Cardinals kicker Jay Feely.
“Absolutely gutted for Todd Heap and his family,” Houston Texans star JJ Watt said in a tweet. “Thoughts are with them in this incredibly tough time.”
“We cannot imagine the heartbreak and sorrow Todd and Ashley’s family feels right now. This is knee-buckling news and an overwhelmingly sad tragedy. Our prayers, our thoughts and our hearts are with the Heaps, who have contributed so much to the Ravens and Baltimore community.
“We believe their deep faith and tremendous support from friends and family will help them through this unimaginable time,” an official statement from the Baltimore Ravens said.
“Our thoughts go out to Todd, Ashley and the Heap family. It is a grief that is beyond words and one which no family should ever experience. Hopefully the prayers, love and support of their incredible group of friends and family provide them comfort that along with their strong faith will lead them through this unspeakably difficult time,’’ the Arizona Cardinals said in an official statement.
(Twitter)
Former teammates and friends tweeted sympathy for Todd Heap and his family following his daughter’s tragic death.
Parents can guide, but children make their own choices
BY WILLIAM HOLLAND Tribune Guest Writer
How many parents have waited for the day when their child’s eyes would suddenly be opened, and like the prodigal, they will finally see the truth and change their ways?
Mothers and fathers dearly love their kids, but unfortunately, things do not always go as planned. Many difficult children have caused their parents much worry, sadness and disappointment. It is easy to blame the parents, but I do not believe that all liability can be laid at their doorstep.
Parents have the perfect opportunity to present constructive thinking, discipline, and a sense of right and wrong into their child’s mind and spirit
within the formative years. However, this does not always guarantee the child will continue in the direction they have been pointed. We guide and provide for our children, but they have minds of their own.
So, how important is it to protect and guard the mind and spirit of a child? Many experts agree that the first six years in a child’s life is his or her most important years of mental, emotional and spiritual development. It is believed that the foundation laid within an individual’s conscience during this crucial period of time becomes the decision filter they will use for the rest of their life.
Does the concept of good parenting producing good children always work? Through the years, I have talked with many broken-hearted parents who wondered where they went wrong. In
these times of trying to console, the scripture found in Proverbs 22:6 usually finds its way to the surface: “Train up a child in the way they should go, and when they are old, they will not depart from it.” This passage reminds the parent that if good seed has been planted within the heart of the child, God’s living Word will eventually germinate and become manifested later in life.
I’m sure many bewildered parents have been waiting a long time to see this miracle, and we could second-guess and speculate forever, but I have come to the conclusion that when a person becomes an adult, they simply choose what type of life they want to live.
For those who have reflected on the past and seen where they have made mistakes, we can all ask God to forgive us, and He will. It is very important that we not continually blame ourselves
for the choices someone else is making. The Lord is aware of the situation and is listening to our prayers and knows that we did the best we could at the time. He loves us and is filled with understanding and compassion.
So, let us continue having faith and hope in His promises and remember, it is never too late to talk with our children and sincerely share our heart with them. There is nothing impossible with God, and He can make a way where there seems to be no way.
“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that you may be healed. The effectual (unceasing) fervent prayer of a righteous person accomplishes much.” James 5:16.
Harvest East Valley transforms strip mall into worship center
By Tribune Staff
Harvest East Valley, a fastgrowing church that originated in Chandler, is housed anew at Gilbert Town Center, just south of downtown Gilbert.
The church spearheaded an innovative adaptive reuse project that transformed an abandoned strip mall storefront into a $1.5 million, 650-seat worship center.
Founded a little more than four years ago, Harvest East Valley’s rapid growth and expansion into a new worship center is a local example of a trend that’s been sweeping the nation for several years, according to a press release issued by the church.
While traditional churches are consolidating and selling off assets, a new generation of churches such as Harvest East Valley are thriving and expanding, even if they need to get creative to accomplish their goals, it stated.
Harvest East Valley’s custom-designed 32,000-square-foot worship center was carved out of a quirky collection of former retail storefronts, including a
former gym-turned-laser tag stadiumturned-charter school.
The non-denominational church focusing on biblical teaching, vibrant worship and community was founded in Chandler in late 2012 inside a converted industrial warehouse space with a core group of 50 adults.
“But by early 2017, our weekly attendance had grown to over 800,” lead pastor Adam Bailie said. “So, despite adding a second and a third service, and taking over additional space across the parking lot from our original worship center, we knew we needed a new facility.”
The problem – albeit a good one to have – didn’t have an easy solution, said Jeff Carlson, executive pastor.
“Since our growth rate forced us to accelerate our expansion plans, we had to get creative, since we knew financial institutions don’t typically lend money to churches that are as young as ours,” he said.
Carlson said the space was a choppy and confusing maze of 12 different retail storefronts. The church worked with Barduson Architects, K&I Architects & Interiors and Redden Construction on renovation that lasted seven months.
The storefronts were demolished down to the exterior walls. Challenges included digging out and infilling the old Gold’s Gym pool to create a new family activity center. This had to be accomplished while also preserving and restoring the original wooden gym floor, which had been painted and coated with a spray-in liner.
The design team also had to figure out how to stitch together the central
– William Holland is a Christian author, outreach minister and community chaplain. He lives in central Kentucky with his wife, Cheryl. To learn more, visit
(Special to the Tribune)
Harvest East Valley’s new home is a transformed strip mall storefront in Gilbert.
FRIDAY, MAY 5
WOMEN’S LUNCHEON/BIBLE STUDY
Guest speaker Joann Aragon will be featured at a luncheon and Bible study at Valor Christian Center in Gilbert. Great fellowship and word study.
DETAILS>> 12:30 p.m., 3015 Warner Road, between Greenfield and Higley. RSVP at info@valorcc.com.
SUNDAYS
NEW CHURCH IN MESA
The Lawrence Memorial A.M.E.Z. Church has opened in Mesa with the Rev. Albert Bolden leading as pastor.
DETAILS>> Sunday school at 9 a.m., worship at 10 a.m., 931 E. Southern Ave., Suite 108. Information: 480-393-3001, tlmchurch.info@gmail.com.
VALOR CHRISTIAN OUTLINES MISSION
Valor Christian Center in Gilbert offers “great praise and worship and great messages for today’s living,” according to Associate Pastor Thor Strandholt. “Our mission is to evangelize, heal and disciple 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>> 4 p.m. at Horizon Presbyterian Church, 1401 E. Liberty Lane. 480-460-1480 or joel@horizonchurch.com.
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: 480-892-2700, unityofmesa.org, lori@unityofmesa.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: 480-792-1800, unityoftempe.com.
KIDS CAN LEARN JEWISH LIFE
Children can learn and experience Jewish life. Chabad Hebrew School focuses on Jewish heritage, culture and holidays.
DETAILS>> 9:30 a.m. to noon, for children ages 5-13 at Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler. 480-855-4333, info@chabadcenter.com, or chabadcenter.com.
MONDAYS
PROSPERITY RECIPES AT UNITY OF TEMPE
Internationally known speaker and author Maureen G. Mulvaney brings back her Prosperity Recipes class series. Cost: $10 per session
DETAILS>> 6:15-8:15 p.m., Unity of Tempe, 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe. Information: 480-792-1800, unityoftempe.com.
TUESDAYS
WOMEN OF INFLUENCE BIBLE STUDY
Join Valor Christian Center in Gilbert for great fellowship and walk through the word of God with depth.
DETAILS>> 10 a.m. Tuesdays, 3015 E. Warner Road between Greenfield and Higley. Free. Information: 480545-4321, valorcc.com.
MESA BIBLE STUDY
The Lawrence Memorial A.M.E.Z. Church conducts Bible study on Tuesdays.
DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m., 931 E. Southern Ave., Suite 108. Information: 480-393-3001, tlmchurch.info@gmail.com.
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.
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 (two blankets and 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.
HARVEST
from page 21
19,000 square feet space with a series of smaller retail storefronts that bookended both sides.
These former office/retail suites had their own entrances, which were sealed off to shift the focus back to the main entryway and inner lobby. New interior hallways and thoughtful way-finding also helped create a singular and seamless worship center space.
“If you’d never been here before, you’d
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 addiction. “Nothing is too small or too large.”
DETAILS>> 6:20 p.m. at Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee, Preschool, Room 6. mvlutheran.org/celebraterecovery or email cr@ alphamvlc.com.
‘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.
GET-ACQUAINTED COFFEE
East Valley Friends and Neighbors holds a monthly
Submit your releases to rzubiate@ timespublications.com
never guess it was a series of 12 separate suites and spaces,” Carlson said. But even as Harvest East Valley settles into its new quarters, the church is already keeping an eye on the future.
“One of our goals with this project was to not overbuild so as to give us the flexibility to move again as we continue to grow,” Bailie said. “But hopefully not in the next few years.”
Harvest East Valley is at Gilbert Town Center, 1120 S. Gilbert Road. Information: 480-471-6614 or harvestev.church.com.
Gilbert bloggers are Valley’s only nominees for James Beard Awards
BY MIKE BUTLER Tribune Contributor
Although top Valley chefs were snubbed by this year’s James Beard awards, a Gilbert couple is in the running for one of the prestigious 2017 Media Awards.
Michelle Jacoby and Mark Lipczynski, former Arizona Republic staffers who publish a blog called Bite: Eat, Drink, Wander, are finalists for Best Video Webcast, on Location, for producing “Elements.”
The 17-minute film is a series of six video shorts that explores how Arizona chefs and other local food and drink artisans incorporate elements of nature into their work.
“Air,” for example, captures the passion of Derrick Shields, the official beekeeper at The Farm at Agritopia. In “Smoke,” Chef Jeff Kraus of Crepe Bar in Tempe showcases his latest inspiration and flavors using unique smoking techniques.
Elements was filmed by Andrew Gooi, a nine-year resident of the Valley who recently moved to Seattle.
Jacoby and Lipczynski approached Gooi after viewing his film “Binkley’s,” the legendary restaurant that opened in Cave Creek in 2004. He had also created
a stunning video portrait of chef Nobuo Fukuda, awarded the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southwest in 2007.
“He’s a very genuine and authentic person and that comes through in his work,” said Lipczynski, who handles still photography for the creative team’s projects.
The James Beard Media Awards are just as big a deal as the food/restaurant awards. They’re a feather in the cap for cookbook authors, TV shows, magazine heavyweights such as The New Yorker and Saveur, and
Beer ‘N Bones 5
Coffee with a Cop
Mesa and Gilbert police officers invite you to drop by for an informal cup of coffee. You can ask questions and get to know your city’s police force personally.
DETAILS>> 8-10 a.m., Wednesday, April 26. Wildflower Bread Company, 3425 E. Baseline Road, Mesa. Cost: Free. mesaaz.gov.
Music Under the Stars
Join the Arizona Wind Symphony, Desert Vista High School, Corona del Sol High School and The Academy Drum & Bugle Corps for an evening of free music under the stars.
DETAILS>> 7 p.m., Friday, April 28. Tempe Center for the Arts (Art Park Amphitheater), 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe. Cost: Free. tempe.gov.
Sip while you science! Browse dinosaur exhibits and improve your knowledge at various science and live animal stations while you drink craft beer. Plus, enjoy a craft project, play beer bingo, speed-date scientists and more fun.
DETAILS>>7-11 p.m., Friday, April 28. Arizona Museum of Natural History, 53 N. Macdonald, Mesa. Tickets: $15 online, $20 at the door. 480644-2230 arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org.
Wet Electric
Kick off the water-park season with an adult-only electronic music festival at Big Surf. Acts include big names like Diplo, Borgore and Audien. Party in the pool and then amp up the excitement on the water slides.
DETAILS>> 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday, April 29. Big Surf, 1500 N. McClintock, Tempe. Tickets: $55-$3,500. wet-electric.com.
up-and-coming bloggers.
When Jacoby and Gooi take their seats at the awards ceremony at Pier Sixty at Chelsea Piers in New York on April 25 (they were given only two tickets), they might be rubbing elbows with celebrity chefs Mario Batali, Anthony Bourdain, Lidia Bastianich or Ina Garten, who are finalists in their various video categories.
“Us just being in that room – it’s pretty incredible,” Jacoby said. “We thought they’d never notice us. We’re just three
Festival of Lights
Winetasting Festival
Help raise money for the Ahwatukee’s winter Festival of Lights while you drink a range of excellent wines and eat delicious food from local businesses. Plus, listen to live music and bid in a silent auction.
DETAILS>> 6:30-10:30 p.m., Saturday, April 29. Rawhide Western Town, 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler. Tickets: $50. folaz.org/ winetasting-festival.
Wonderland: Alice’s Rock & Roll Adventure
Join Alice as she meets odd characters and explores the unusual world of Wonderland to an upbeat rock soundtrack. For ages 6 and up.
DETAILS>> Times vary, Saturday, April 29May 21. Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe. Tickets: $12-$26. 480350-2822. childsplayaz.org/wonderland.
people with a camera.”
“It still hasn’t registered,” Lipczynski added.
Jacoby and Lipczynski received their first validation that Bite was on the right track last year when they were in contention for Saveur’s annual Blog Award, an international competition.
They met when she became editor of the Republic’s AZ Magazine and he became its principal photographer. They grew intensely interested in Arizona’s food scene, and each other, and married two years ago.
After the excitement of the James Beard Awards dies down, Jacoby said, Bite will turn its lens on a new series called “In Food We Trust,” which celebrates immigrant restaurant owners and makers.
The two are also planning a visit to Brazil to do a feature on the Peixoto family coffee farm.
“Our mission is to tell the story behind the story,” Jacoby said.
The film “Elements” and other stories can be viewed at readbite.com and foodtalkies.com. Gooi’s “Food Talkies” is also nominated for Visual and Technical Excellence.
– Reach Mike Butler at 480-898-5630 or at mbutler@timespublications.com.
Healthy Kids Day!
Valley YMCAs host a day of games and crafts that also teach kids how to be healthy through exercise and good eating habits.
DETAILS>> 7 a.m.-closing, Saturday, April 29. Your nearest Valley of the Sun YMCA. Cost: Free (RSVP). 602-404-9622. valleyymca.org.
‘Beauty and the Beast’
On the tail of the recent live-action movie, Ballet Etudes presents a world-premiere youth production of the classic fairy tale “Beauty and the Beast.” The story comes from the original book, not the Disney version.
DETAILS>> Times vary, Saturday-Sunday, April 29-30. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Tickets: $16-$22. chandlercenter.org.
(Mike Butler/Tribune Contributor)
Michelle Jacoby and Mark Lipczynski, finalists for a 2017 James Beard Media Award, take a breather at Peixoto Coffee in downtown Chandler.
Pan-seared pork chop casserole filled with love
BY JAN D’ATRI Tribune Contributor
Icall this recipe a “double love dish” because it combines two things we love: pork chops and casseroles! If you’re looking for a new twist on the standard
2. Season pork chops on both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge pork chops lightly in flour.
grilled pork chop or hungry for a new Sunday supper or weeknight casserole, this one’s a winner!
For step-by-step instructions, I’ve created a video for you right here: jandatri.com/ recipes.
minutes. Serve with homemade apple chunks.
3. In a nonstick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Place pork chops in skillet and cook over medium high heat until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer pork chops to a plate and cover.
4. In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté onions and garlic until soft and golden brown. Stir in mushrooms, parsley and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook for 10 minutes.
5. Grease an approximately 9-inch casserole dish with oil. Place half of the mushroom mixture on the bottom of casserole. Place cooked pork chops over top of mushroom mixture. Top with remainder of mushrooms.
6. In same skillet, add wine and 1 tablespoon of butter, and gently scrape up all remaining browned bits in pan. Bring liquid to a gentle boil and then pour over top of mushrooms in casserole dish. Bake at 425 degrees for 15
THE APPLE CHUNKS Ingredients:
Directions:
In a medium
‘The Drowsy Chaperone’ bound to awaken joy at Studio 3 theater
BY SRIANTHI PERERA Tribune Staff Writer
“The Drowsy Chaperone,” captivates attention by its very title.
The story follows a middle-aged, unsociable musical theater fanatic as he plays the record of his favorite musical, the (fictional) 1928 hit “The Drowsy Chaperone.” While the needle moves across the vinyl, he brings the story, characters and music to life – and brings the audience along with him.
Limelight Performing Arts, in partnership with Studio 3 Performing Arts, brings to stage the hit musical that won five Tony Awards and pokes fun at all of the clichés that characterize the musical theater genre. It runs through May 7 at Studio 3’s Artspace Theatre in Gilbert.
Here’s how the story goes:
When showgirl Janet Van De Graff makes plans to leave her career to marry oil tycoon Robert Martin, Follies producer Mr. Feldzeig is forced by a pair of gangsters disguised as pastry chefs to sabotage the
wedding. Meanwhile, best man George tries to help the would-be groom keep his nerves in check, and Janet’s drowsy chaperone imparts her own brand of wisdom.
“It’s very light-hearted and you’ll keep laughing the entire time,” said Emma England, Studio 3 Performing Arts Academy founder and the artistic director of the production. “If someone really enjoys
musicals, they will really connect to this show.”
It’s also off the wall. In addition, their version is unique, England said, because it has built-in audience interaction.
Most seats are show-only, but some include servings of dessert.
“During the show, the actors will sit and stand on the tables themselves where the audience is sitting. They may go and shake hands with the audience or gesture toward them and bring them into the show, if you will,” England said. “Anything goes, really.”
“It’s one of my favorite shows to direct,” Don Crosby, a longtime actor and director of the play stated in a news release.
Crosby said that the over-the-top, melodramatic, slapstick musical features a cast of talented teenagers in the Valley.
“Audiences will feel like they’re watching a full-scale, professional production. The cast is creative, fun and truly loves what they’re doing. The cast brings so much joy to their roles, making this musical not just a show but an experience,” he said.
Information: 480-545-1492, limelightyouththeater.org or studio3arts.com.
ZapCon gathering revives the golden age of video games
By GetOut Staff
You can’t help admiring the graphical realism, complex controls and amazing scope of modern video games. They’re frequently a triumph of technical engineering, storytelling and artistic creativity backed by Hollywoodblockbuster budgets.
Still, that doesn’t stop many gamers from yearning for the old days of 8-bit graphics, CRT screens, piezo sound, a joystick and a few buttons all housed in a bulky arcade cabinet. Asteroids, Pac-Man, Super Mario Bros., Donkey Kong, Centipede – these are still revered names in the halls of gaming greatness.
These are also just a few of the games you can play at the fifth annual ZapCon on Saturday and Sunday, April 29 and 30. This retro-gaming convention at Mesa Convention Center boasts an arcade full of classic games all set in free-play mode. No quarters needed!
In addition to arcade games, pinball wizards will enjoy a huge pinball area that includes classic big names – and some newer ones – like Stargate, Cyclone, Addams Family and Getaway. Retro console gamers can also join the action at
a lounge containing Atari, Nintendo and Sega game systems, complete with vintage and rare games.
Of course, the true joy for many gamers – as it still is in modern games – isn’t the gameplay. The best part comes from beating the high score, and the bragging
rights that go with it. That’s why ZapCon offers a number of tournaments.
The AZ Pinball Players League will host the IFPA pinball tournament and there will also be Tag Team Pinball where player partners alternate at the bell. On the arcade front, you can compete on a
number of games, including Donkey Kong. Street Fighter and Tetris. There will also be a 10-game Arcade Round Robin for truly versatile gamers.
Apart from contests, enjoy other spectacles like Danger Dann and his Pinball Rodeo, and world record attempts on Mr. Driller and Mr. Dig from Sid Seattle. Of course, vendors of collectibles, game parts and other items will be on hand, as will popular food trucks.
All ages and skill levels are welcome to attend. So, don’t worry if you’re rusty, or just want to introduce your kids to the frustration of games that don’t include save points.
IF YOU GO
Where: Mesa Convention Center, 263 N. Center St., Mesa
When: Saturday, April 29, 10 a.m.11:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 30, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Cost: A weekend pass costs $40 for adults and $20 for kids. You can also buy single-day passes.
More info: zapcon.com
(Special to the Tribune)
ZapCon features dozens of classic arcade and pinball machines, including Pac-Man, Donkey Kong and Super Mario Bros.
(Special to The Tribune)
Limelight Performing Arts presents “The Drowsy Chaperone” at Studio 3 Artspace Theatre through May 7.
Free spring concerts at Gilbert Water Tower
BY SRIANTHI PERERA
GetOut Contributing Writer
At dusk, the setting is unique: a historical water tower looms large against the orange glow and a splash pad nearby shoots water intermittently upward, to be greeted by juvenile squeals, while parents look on. Music would make it even more pleasant.
The Downtown Concert Series organized by Gilbert at the Water Tower Plaza in the heart of Gilbert’s Heritage District continues through June. It takes place Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Participants may pack a picnic basket or dine in one of the nearby restaurants before heading to an evening of free entertainment (alcohol or glass containers are not permitted and there aren’t any food or beverage vendors onsite). Bring a blanket or chairs because lawn space is limited.
Here’s the remaining lineup: April 27: Miss Dmeaner & the Felonies –missdmeanerandthefelonies.com
May 11: The Rhythm Edition Band –rhythmeditionband.com
May 25: Latino Rebel Band – lrbaz.com June 8: Tequila Highway – tequilahighway. com
A few things to keep in mind: The Splash Pad will remain on during the concert, but participants should refrain from placing chairs on the splash pad lights and water fixtures.
Children are permitted to play in the splash pad prior to the start of the concert and during intermission only.
Free public parking is available at the Gilbert Park and Ride on Page Avenue, just south of Water Tower Plaza.
IF YOU GO
Where: Water Tower Plaza, 45 W. Page Ave., Gilbert
When: Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: gilbertaz.gov/concerts
Obituaries
Carmen retired from Mesa Public Schools as an Adv i s
She also taught English, cooking, and sewing through n i t y E x t e n s i o n P r o g r a m H e r p
S
h s c h o o l
Carmen was a Prayer Warrior and a Mighty Woman of God; she was alw a y s a v a i l a b l e f o r f a m i l y , f r i e n d s , c h u r c h m e m b e r
prayer or help in anyway She was also “Nana” to many children that she opened her door to and needed help
Carmen is preceded in death by her husband Carlos M Arvayo, her two sons at birth Mario and Leo and her brother Albert (Gordy) Sierra Carmen is survived by her brother Danny Castaneda, her children Raymond C Arvayo (Rachel), Carlos E Arvayo (Rita), Xavier Arvayo (Carol), C a
The family held a private service, and a Celebration of Life will take place at a future date
Sign the Guestbook at
Banner Medical Group seeks Hospitalist to work in Mesa, AZ Prov medical care & diagnoses & treats conditions of hospitalized patients Creates & maintains timely, appropriate, & confidential documentation & coding of patient care For full desc or to apply, send resume to David Samudio@bannerhealth.com, ref# 7938
SVB Financial Group has several openings for Datawarehouse Integrators (multiple types/levels) in Tempe, AZ to contribute to the data warehouse practice through the implementation of new design & development policies & ‎procedures Apply online at www svb com Ref job # 4627
(Special to the Tribune) Through June 8, Gilbert hosts free concerts in the shadow of the famed Gilbert Water Tower.
ARVAYO, Carmen Rosa
6634 E Baseline Rd Ste 104 Mesa, AZ 85206
Sweeper Drivers and Sweeper Assistants
Needed! - Night Shift -
Hard physical labor and lots of walking Drug Free Company -
We test - Starting Pay $10.50 per hour. If interested call 480-497-1441 and leave your contact information
We will call you to schedule an interview
Hiring Fitter/Welders
Announce ments
Prayer Announcements
Thank You St Jude For Answering My Prayers -John
Lost & Found
LOST DOG
Small, fluffy female dog (bichon/poodle) lost in Sun Lakes at the end of February Answers to Bella and she is chipped She has very few nails on her front paws
Owners are devastated, please let me know if you see her Sheri 480-201-9526
Public Notices
CITY OF MESA MESA, ARIZONA
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
Red Mountain Shared Use Path Project No M99-2016-034 T
study on the Red Mountain Shared Use Pathway The Red Mountain SUP will begin at the e
Right of Way at the Power Road and Ride and w
Northern City limits Scope of work will be de-
where design consultants and City staff will be available to answer your questions No formal presentation will be given
Date: Thursday, April 27, 2017
Time: 6:00 p m to 7:00 p m
Location: Red Mountain Ranch ElementaryMultipurpose Room 6650 East Raftriver Street Mesa, AZ 85215
If you have any questions or concerns regard-
WANTED: 36 People
WANTED: 36 People
Are you, or someone you know, struggling with hearing loss?
you, or someone you know, struggling
We need 36 people with difficulty hearing, especially in noisy situations, to evaluate the new style in digital technology from NuEar. We will perform thorough hearing consultations FREE of charge to ALL callers. We will then choose 36 qualified candidates for this program.
We need 36 people with difficulty hearing, especially in noisy situations, to evaluate the new style in digital technology from NuEar. We will perform thorough hearing consultations FREE of charge to ALL callers. We will then choose 36 qualified candidates for this program.
We need 36 people with difficulty hearing, especially in noisy situations, to evaluate the new style in digital technology from NuEar. We will perform thorough hearing consultations FREE of charge to ALL callers. We will then choose 36 qualified candidates for this program.
MEET
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MEET
Tuesday – Thursday April 25th through 27th
Dawn has 26 years of experience helping the hearing community, this being her 14th year in the Valley.
Dawn has 26 years of experience helping the hearing community, this being her 14th year in the Valley.
Dawn is a licensed hearing specialist in New Mexico and Arizona and Board Certified in Hearing Instrument Sciences. She is also a member of Hearing HealthCare Practitioners of Arizona (HHPA) and a member of the International Hearing Society (IHS). She has been a member of the licensing board in Arizona and currently holds a position with an IHS board.
Her experience gives her tremendous insight into the problems and frustrations that accompany hearing loss and the exciting solutions that are now available. She has a passion for helping people with all types of hearing loss.
Dawn has 26 years of experience helping the hearing community, this being her 14th year in the Valley.
Dawn is a licensed hearing specialist in New Mexico and Arizona and Board Certified in Hearing Instrument Sciences. She is also a member of Hearing HealthCare Practitioners of Arizona (HHPA) and a member of the International Hearing Society (IHS). She has been a member of the licensing board in Arizona and currently holds a position with an IHS board.
Dawn is a licensed hearing specialist in New Mexico and Arizona and Board Certified in Hearing Instrument Sciences. She is also a member of Hearing HealthCare Practitioners of Arizona (HHPA) and a member of the International Hearing Society (IHS). She has been a member of the licensing board in Arizona and currently holds a position with an IHS board.
Her experience gives her tremendous insight into the problems and frustrations that accompany hearing loss and the exciting solutions that are now available. She has a passion for helping people with all types of hearing loss.
Her experience gives her tremendous insight into the problems and frustrations that accompany hearing loss and the exciting solutions that are now available. She has a passion for helping people with all types of hearing loss. Dawn
g Help you better understand conversations and hear comfortably in any noisy environment
g Make speech more audible by keeping loud sounds comfortable and boosting soft sounds g Stream TV, music and more to your hearing aids
to schedule your evaluation to determine if
Dawn Sanchez, Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist
