Gilbert Town Councilman Eddie Cook has applied for the Maricopa County assessor job left vacant by Paul Petersen, who resigned Jan. 7 after his arrest in a “baby mill” adoption scandal.
Cook is one of 11 candidates vying for the appointment to a term that ends Dec. 31.
Also throwing his hat into the ring is another Gilbert resident – Hendrix, a former state House representative and a current member of the Maricopa County Community College Governing Board.
“I’ve always been interested in serving in a greater capacity,” said Cook, who has been on council for nine years and embraces the role of a public servant.
The county assessor is responsible for overseeing over 1.7 million real and personal property parcels and/or accounts that had a full cash value of more than $553 billion in 2020.
In his application, Cook touted his 30 years of business and technology experience and accomplishments that include developing a partnership with the county to bring the Gilbert Regional Park to fruition and championing lower taxes in the town during his time on council.
He also serves on a number of state, county and local government and nonprofit boards.
Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels and Chandler Mayor Kevin Harke both submitted letters of endorsements for Cook, noting his integrity and his problem-solving skills and com-
mitment to serving the community.
The other candidates include Ned Chapell, Thomas Galvin, Rodney Glassman, Jack Harper, Hos Hoskins, Lesley Kratz, Darren Rasmussen, Marie Soja and Karrie Stickler. Michael E. Farrar, a Carefree resident, withdrew his application last Thursday.
“My experience in the real estate, construction, business and legal fields have prepared me to serve in this capacity,” wrote Hendrix in his cover letter. “I have also served in the political arena, drafting legislation that enables Arizonans to enjoy fair and equitable home values and assessments.”
The candidates also were asked in the application if they planned on running for the
BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor
Zeta sniffed the several T-shirts spread out before her on the floor until she detected a chemical odor on one and alerted her handler by sitting in front of it.
“Show me,” commanded David Zehring, an investigator with Gilbert Fire and Rescue.
The black English Labrador retriever then pointed with her nose to the shirt’s logo, where earlier Zhering had put a tiny drop of accelerant.
“Good girl,” Zehring said as he reached into the food pouch strapped around his waist and rewarded Zeta with dog kibbles.
For an hour, Zehring trained the 19-month-old arson dog to detect six dif-
ferent classifications of ignitable liquids such as gasoline, lighter fluid, diesel, paint thinner and charcoal fluid along with the different brands of those accelerants.
Zeta is a rare dog.
She is the only canine trained by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in trained accelerant detection working in Arizona - and one of only 61 in duty in the country.
She replaced Spring, the department’s first arson dog, a black lab that retired in October.
Although new to the force, Zeta already was called out to three suspicious fires –in Sedona, El Mirage and Mesa – according to Zehring, who could not go into detail
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Cook responded no unless it was “the right business reason for the citizens of Maricopa County” while Hendrix said it was his intent to run.
County spokesman Jason Berry said staff was now conducting background and financial checks on the candidates.
From there, supervisors will call in people they want to interview with the goal of making an appointment by Feb. 14, Berry said.
If Cooks is appointed, that would mean the possibility of two seats on the Council open for appointment.
Councilman Jordan Ray has signaled his intention to run for justice of the peace for the Highland Justice Court in the upcoming August primary.
Last October, a state grand jury indicted Petersen for his alleged involve-
ment in an adoption fraud scheme involving pregnant Marshallese women flown in Arizona to place their babies up for adoption.
Petersen was accused of using false information to place the Marshallese women on state-funded healthcare in order to pay for delivery costs, bilking the state out of more than $814,000, according to the U.S. Immigration and
Customs Enforcement.
According to the indictment, Petersen and co-defendant Lynwood Jennet purchased travel arrangements for pregnant Marshallese women to travel to Arizona for the sole purpose of placing their baby up for adoption.
After the women gave birth and completed the adoption, Petersen allegedly purchased travel for the birth mothers to leave Arizona. The women either moved to Arkansas or back to the Marshall Islands. Petersen and Jennet are facing 32 felony counts, according to officials.
Mesa lawmaker opposes anti-discrimination bill
BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services
State lawmakers from both parties are seeking to enact new laws that would nullify last year’s Arizona Supreme Court ruling allowing business owners to cite their “sincerely held religious beliefs’’ to refuse to serve gays.
But a Mesa lawmaker is among those blocking it.
The proposals from Sen. Kate Brophy McGee, R-Phoenix, and Rep. Daniel Hernandez, D-Tucson, would expand existing laws that now prohibit discrimination in public accommodation based on race, religion, sex, age, disability or national origin.
Both SB 1321 and HB 2716 would add sexual orientation and gender identification to the list.
The potentially more far-reaching part of the plan would alter the current existing laws that now generally make it illegal for government to “substantially burden a person’s exercise of religion’’ even if that burden results from laws that apply to everyone else.
It was that section of the law that the state’s high court used to rule that a Phoenix ordinance – similar to parts of
the statute Brophy McGee and Hernandez propose – did not require the owners of Brush & Nib Studios to prepare custom wedding invitations for gays.
To that end, they are proposing new language to say that if a business is open to the public, it has to provide services to all customers, regardless of whether they run counter to the owners’ beliefs.
Both measures face an uphill fight. Neither Senate President Karen Fann nor House Speaker Rusty Bowers of Mesa has agreed to allow either bill to be heard.
Fann said she’s been trying to keep all legislation dealing with gay rights, on both sides of the issue, off the agenda.
Bowers said he sees no need to expand existing anti-discrimination laws to cover sexual orientation and gender.
And he was particularly adamant about not overturning the Brush & Nib decision.
“I think that my right of freedom of religion and religious beliefs and expression is at least equal to anybody else’s,’’ Bowers said.
Cathi Herrod, president of the Center for Arizona Policy, said the law “would violate Arizonans conscience rights
with the apparent intent to force health care providers to participate in abortions, or provide puberty blockers or surgery to minors and adults struggling with gender identity questions.’’
“It essentially puts the demands of the LGBTQ community above those who exercise their First Amendment rights of freedom of speech and religion,’’ she said.
But Brophy McGee told Capitol Media Services that Herrod is finding problems with her legislation where none exist.
“Arizona has the strongest religious freedom laws in the country, which I support,’’ she said. “All we are asking for is fairness in employment housing and public accommodations.’’
Herrod noted, “The court made clear that the government ‘must not be allowed to force persons to express a message contrary to their deepest convictions.’”
But Brophy McGee said if she, as a Catholic, were to go into a Muslim-owned bakery to order an Easter cake, complete with three crosses and inscribed “God our Savior, He is Risen,’’ that “I would expect them to bake it for me and decorate it for me.’’
An edition of the East Valley Tribune
Eddie Cook Laurin Hendrix
Center in Gilbert helps EV sex-trafficking victims
BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor
Anonprofit aimed at helping adult sex-trafficking victims get back on their feet set up an office in downtown Gilbert.
CeCe’s Hope Center’s resources include call-lines, case management and mentorship and focuses on women, 1824, who aged out or are about to age out of the foster care or justice system, as well as those recently rescued by law enforcement.
“We looked at the data between Chandler, Mesa and Gilbert and it looks like sex trafficking especially online versions of this is pretty prevalent with all three communities.,” said Gilbert Councilman Eddie Cook, who serves on CeCe’s board of directors. Adding:
“I know if you were to chat with the police departments of all three, they will give you data and show you it is becoming more and more of an increase in this particular unfortunate kind of issue.”
Lea Benson, CeCe’s CEO, began the legwork on forming the East Valley nonprofit while she headed StreetLight USA, which provides housing and resources for girls 11-17 years old who have been victimized by sex-trafficking.
StreetLight took root in 2008, in the West Valley and since helped over 1,000 girls.
“Before leaving StreetLight, I saw the need for aftercare for kids after 18, aged out of the system,” said Benson, who tracked some of the girls who left StreetLight.
“They needed more support, they weren’t ready,” she explained. “Trauma can take years and years to overcome (but) once they turn 18, there’s no more support system for them and fewer services available for those over 18.”
Benson said three years ago, she approached Chandler Councilman Rene Lopez, who was involved with StreetLight at the time, about setting up the Center and he readily agreed to help. Lopez, in turn, worked with Cook and Mesa City Councilman Kevin Thompson, also a board member, to bring CeCe’s to
fruition.
“While they are under 18, they are the ward of the state and have a lot of resources,” said Lopez, the board’s chairman. “But when they turn 18, 80 to 90 percent (of the resources) drop off.”
Lopez said the center is currently helping 10 women and stabilized four who have found housing and steady jobs.
Lopez also noted another reason for starting a program in the East Valley.
“About 80 percent of the overall donations (to StreetLight) were from the East Valley,” he said. “And about 90 percent of volunteer hours from churches were from the East Valley.”
Lopez said it took about a year to get the foundation going and then almost two years before CeCe’s was ready to take in participants.
“We help them with case management and what resources are available to them immediately so they can work toward stabilization,” he said. “And we pair them with a mentor who’s non-judgmental – a shoulder to cry on and an ear to listen. All of the mentors have gone through trauma themselves
so a lot of them are survivors, most from sex trafficking.”
The center also teaches the women life skills, such as how to balance a checkbook, how to put together a resume and how to get a job.
Gilbert Police said there were no “official” sex-trafficking cases investigated in the town for 2019.
But from 2014-17, there were 26 human-trafficking arrests in Gilbert while Mesa reported 144 and Chandler 21 for this time period, according to police.
And, during the fall of 2018, Mesa Police Department partnered with Tempe, Gilbert and Chandler Police departments as well as the Attorney General’s Office, in an undercover operation resulting in the arrest of 24 suspects, ranging in age from 21 to 80 years old.
Det. Natalie Nohr with Mesa Police’s Human Exploitation and Trafficking or HEaT Squad, said the unit handles on average four cases a month, split evenly between children and adult victims.
“We work with several other agencies in handling those types of investigations,” she said, adding cases have
increased due to more awareness of sex trafficking.
Survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and abuse, and human trafficking ranked No. 2 among 10 groups in Gilbert found to be in need of human services such as mental health counseling and housing, according to a 2019 Community Needs Assessment commissioned by Gilbert.
“This serious standalone group is in need of immediate attention in Gilbert,” the report stated.
The report’s consultant in December told Town Council human trafficking cases were growing in the East Valley with the majority occurring online and through phone apps.
It recommended Gilbert take the reins to pro-actively combat it.
Benson said the center this year is focusing on raising money to provide temporary housing, three to six months, for the women until they are able to make it on their own.
“We’d love to be able to own one but for now we’ll start by leasing a facility until we raise the money to purchase one or someone donates one for us,” she said, adding:
“Everybody wants to help kids but they don’t realize when it comes to trafficking, the mental state of many (adult victims) are they are still a kid, still in the trauma state. So, they need a lot of support to maintain and stabilize. I started CeCe’s in the East Valley as a continuation of support based on all the things I’ve learned in the last 10 years in StreetLight.”
Information: cecescenter.org/about.
People support the rescue and recovery of sex-trafficking victims gathered in downtown Chandler last month for a rally aimed at increasing public awareness of the problem throughout the East Valley. (File photo)
Recovery clinic doc arrested on drug charges
Aformer psychiatrist for a recovery clinic with three Valley locations, including Gilbert, was arrested after he was accused of sharing illicit drugs with a patient.
Dr. Rajeeve Billing is facing charges including use and possession of dangerous and narcotic drugs. A Feb. 13 preliminary hearing was scheduled, according to Maricopa County Superior Court.
The 2nd Chance Treatment Center announced last week it fired Billing.
The center reported the mother of an unidentified patient at 2nd Chance complained in December of “inappropriate and possibly criminal” behavior on the part of Billing.
“The patient’s mother provided copies of various cell phone videos mostly showing Dr. Billing freestyle rapping with the patient in an apartment with beer cans on the counter and Dr. Billing smoking what appears to be a cigarette,”
the company news release stated.
Although the mother claimed more serious criminal activities took place, including using or sharing illicit drugs together, no videos or other evidence was provided despite multiple requests for it, according to 2nd Chance.
The company completed its internal investigation around Jan. 13. Initially, Billing denied the accusa-
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tions and explained his social interaction with the patient was not a violation of his ethical responsibilities because the patient’s direct medical care was re-assigned to another provider in late December 2019, according to the news release.
Also, 2nd Chance claimed two weeks after the mother’s initial complaint, she met with company owners and asked for money to “resolve and close her complaint.”
The company stated it refused the mother’s demand and stopped direct interaction with her.
Then, beginning the week of Jan. 20, 2nd Chance learned from the physician – as well as local law enforcement and investigators from the Arizona Medical Board – Billing’s alleged conduct “was at least partly based in fact and was so serious as to require search warrants to be executed and arrests to be made.”
2nd Chance immediately placed Billing on administrative leave, continuing
its internal investigation, in cooperation with local law enforcement and the Arizona Medical Board.
The company learned on Jan. 23, Billing signed an interim agreement with the Arizona Medical Board to restrict his license based on the underlying criminal, ethical and professional claims raised against him.
The company also discovered Billing was arrested Jan. 24, on “multiple drug-related charges several of which are felony charges,” according to the release.
Taking its patients into account, the company fired Billing on Jan. 26.
Billing was certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and received his medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine. He completed a residency in psychiatry at Hennepin Healthcare, followed by a fellowship in addiction psychiatry at Emory University.
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Dr. Rajeeve Billing
about the cases because they are still active.
Zehring drove Zeta back from Virginia with him in December after the two completed a six-week training course at the ATF Canine Training Center.
She comes to the department at no cost to Gilbert. Zehring said ATF invests about $50,000 to train one dog and a handler.
“It’s a partnership with the ATF,” Zehring explained. “ATF paid for the canine and the training.”
In turn, Gilbert Fire will provide Zeta’s services for local and national ATF call-outs. And because of mutual aid agreements, Zeta also responds to other fire departments in need of the service.
Labradors are the dogs of choice for the ATF, which started the Accelerant Detection Canine Program in 1984, and since graduated over 250 labs. Each dog must have at least a five-year commitment on the job or retire by 10 years old.
“The ATF get their dogs either from the Guide Dog Foundation or Puppies Behind Bars, where inmates train dogs to be service animals,” Zehring said. “They use labs that washed out or are released from the programs for various reasons.”
Zeta was released from the Guide Dog Foundation in New York at 15 months old when she arrived at the ATF.
Besides being one of the top dog breeds when it comes to sense of smell, Labradors are good at working with people, have a desire to please and are immensely food-driven – which plays a major role in their training.
“Zeta is rewarded with food. That is how she eats,” Zehring said. “So, if we are not working a fire scene, I have to work Zeta minimally twice a day for
weighed weekly.
Zehring also hides dog treats and food in some of the paint cans used during the training exercises to teach Zeta not to be distracted by them and to give a “fake sit.”
And, Zehring must learn to recognize Zeta’s changes in behavior. For example, a snap of her head means she’s picked up an odor; the flap in her nose works faster because she is trying to get where the scent is.
He also must keep detailed training records, which are critical in a courtroom.
Each year, ATF dogs must be re-certified, which involves a double-blind odor recognition and search exercise they must score 100 percent.
Before Spring retired at 9, she worked over 200 cases in Arizona and across the country with Zehring in her seven-year career at the department.
One case involved a car fire the owner claimed was accidental to collect on the insurance. However, Spring detected gasoline inside the vehicle.
“When a car is shut off, the high-pressure lines won’t have fuel in them because the car is not running,” Zehring said. “To find gas in the interior of a car shouldn’t occur.”
If a gas tank explodes, the gasoline would be on the ground, he noted.
While Spring is no longer on the job, Zehring still has her company: he adopted her and she is now living the life of a “regular” dog.
her to eat.
“So, this morning we did an interior building search. I had to put accelerant throughout the building and work her like a fire scene and she found where I hid the accelerant, so she is rewarded with food. I not only give her food but praise, tell her she is a good girl to reinforce what she’s doing.”
Because arson dogs work a fire scene
like they do in training, it helps the handlers see where there are deficiencies and it helps the dogs keep their skills sharp.
Twice-a-day training seven days a week is part of Zeta and Zehring’s routine.
“There are no weekends off, no vacations, no sick days,” Zehring said, adding Zeta only eats out of his hand and is
When it came time to find Spring’s replacement, Zehring said he requested a black lab.
“Zeta, she is very similar to Spring, a black English lab female,” he said. “If people see her, they think she is Spring.”
Zeta is one of two arson canines in the Valley. Phoenix Fire acquired a dog last year from a State Farm-sponsored training program.
Zeta waits for the next command from her master, David Zehring, an investigator for Gilbert Fire and Rescue. (Chris Mortenson/GSN Staff Photographer)
Churches, Tim Tebow give teens ‘Night to Shine’
BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA GSN Contributor
Three local congregations of the Living Word Bible Church are joining with the Tim Tebow Foundation to assure area special needs teens have a prom night to remember.
The Feb. 7 event is the first Night to Shine in the East Valley, and it joins more than 655 host churches in every U.S. state and 24 countries – all of whom hold the prom night before Valentine’s Day.
The sixth annual world-wide event offers people with special needs, ages 14 and older, a memorable evening and includes an entrance walk on a red carpet, paparazzi, professional photography, hair and make-up for girls and shoe shine for fellas. Dancing, food and the crowning of a prom king and queen also are on tap.
There is one aspect setting it apart from other proms: at Night to Shine, every guest attendee is crowned queen or king of the prom and a tiara or crown is placed upon each head.
Worldwide, nearly 100,000 special needs guests are assisted by 200,000 volunteers
who undertake a variety of roles to ensure a special evening for all.
A moving “2019 – Night to Shine” video, available on the Tim Tebow Foundation website, shows the joy and excitement of these special promgoers in the U.S. and abroad.
“Every single person is important,” said Tebow, who sponsors many other charitable events and activities. “We’re all loved; we’re all created in God’s image.”
Tebow was born in the Philippines where his missionary parents were serving. The youngest of five children, he moved with his family to Florida when he was three.
His career as a quarterback in high school and the University of Florida, where he was the 2007 Heisman Trophy, led him to the NFL. His strong Christian stance was well-illustrated with his practice of kneeling on one knee and became known as “Tebowing.”
The Living Word Bible Church at 3520 E. Brown Road, Mesa, is the host site of the East Valley Night to Shine and members
from their congregation and sister churches in Ahwatukee, Gilbert and Scottsdale are providing assistance and volunteers.
In addition to online training, the Living Word Bible Church hosted two volunteer sessions for their inaugural Night to Shine prom.
The Tim Tebow Foundation requires background checks for all volunteers and volunteers under age 18 need parental permission.
Cliff Maes, outreach director at the Mesa host church, said since this is the first year Living Word Bible Church will host Night to Shine, they opted to limit attendance to 75 guests.
“We wanted to make sure we did it just right and having a smaller group we knew would help us do that,” said Maes, a Gilbert resident.
The church was recommended to the Tim Tebow Foundation by a parishioner.
“Since we’re opening our new Special see SHINE page 9
Pastor Jeff Zubeck is one of the organizers of the Night to Shine dance for people with special needs. (Special for GSN)
Needs Ministry, one of our volunteers suggested us to the Foundation. They asked us if we would be willing and we said, ‘yes, that would be great!’ We started getting inquiries before we even posted,” Maes said. “And we hit our 280 mark for volunteers three weeks ago.”
He said the special event dovetailed with the church’s launch of a special-needs ministry and three rooms for the Living Word Champions Club.
“We’re creating a special-needs space because there are families in our congregation and community who cannot
worship freely because they don’t have a place they trust to accommodate the needs – both safely and educationally – for their children with special needs,” he explained.
Among the many volunteers signed up for Night to Shine are parishioners from the Living Word Bible Church in Ahwatukee.
Pastor Jeff Zubeck and wife Tammy have overseen the church, at 14647 S. 50th Street, for 10 years.
“Our primary focus is on the family, and we look at how anything we do affects the family and A Night to Shine was one way to get involved,” said Jeff Zubeck, whose church on Jan. 31, held a dance for kids aging out of the foster care system.
“Through acceptance, laughter, and love, our services and ministries show people just how valuable they are to God, and just how much they can accomplish in this lifetime through Jesus,” he said.
The Living Word Bible Churches in Gilbert and Scottsdale are also providing volunteers.
Because this is a night of music, bright lights and fun, Night to Shine also provides a respite room for parents and caregivers to relax as each prom attendee has a personally-assigned volunteer during the event.
The Tebow Foundation also requires a “sensory room,” a quiet space to
allow guests to be away from the noise and excitement should they become overwhelmed or over-stimulated.
According to the Tim Tebow Foundation and Night to Shine website, nine churches in Arizona are hosting a prom night this year, including Mountain View Church in Queen Creek, Highlands Church in Scottsdale and Twentynine11 in Tempe.
For more information on Night to Shine and other ministries the former NFL quarterback, missionary kid and sports commentator oversees, see TimTebowFoundation.org.
For information on the Living Word Bible Church: LivingWordOnline.com.
Work begins soon on Chandler Unified’s new Gilbert school
southwest Gilbert near the Chandler border.
McCarthy Building Companies – which recently completed construction of its newest garage in downtown Chandler – is building the Chandler Unified School District’s 32nd elementary school, Robert Rice Elementary School, in
The $23-million K-6 school will have room for 800 students. The 93,000-square-foot building will include a gym/multipurpose room, media center, classrooms and administration space. The new elementary school is being built on an accelerated seven-month
schedule on Ocotillo Road between Lindsay Road and Val Vista Drive.
The school will contain energy-saving features including an air-cooled central plant; an Energy Management System allowing HVAC and lighting to be controlled remotely via the Internet; sky lighting in hallways to eliminate use of lights; and ground and polished con-
crete floors in hallways and bathrooms, which are easier and less expensive to maintain.
The school is being named after longtime CUSD governing board member Robert Rice. Rice began his career as an officer in the U.S. Air Force and spent
Pool
Gilbert church pays off families’ $4.9M medical debt
Desert Springs Church, with locations in Chandler and Gilbert, announced it canceled $4.9 million in medical debt for 849 families in the two communities.
Each year the nondenominational church focuses on giving back to local charities and ministries in the Phoenix metropolitan area and around the world. Last year, it partnered with RIP Medical Debt, a New York-based charity.
“When we looked at the statistics of how many American adults struggled to pay their medical bills, and the top stressor reported in our communities was finances, partnering with RIP Medical Debt Relieve just made sense,” said the Rev. Brad Davis, a lead pastor at the church.
RIP Medical Debt takes donations
– like the giving from Desert Springs Church – to purchase debt at pennies on the dollar.
The debt is then paid off forever, with no adverse consequences to those who are helped.
Every $100 donated forgives $10,000 in medical debt, according to RIP, which dissolved over $1 billion in debt to date.
According to the organization, 66 percent of all bankruptcies and 25 percent of all credit card debt in the United States are due to medical debt issues.
Tina Dickison with Desert Springs, said the families’ identities are kept confidential from the church and each person’s account it paid off received a letter from RIP earlier this month explaining what happened.
“Our gift has canceled $4.9 million
in debt,” she said. “It affected 849 families, 387 of those families live in Gilbert.”
Dickison said the average household debt abolished was $5,782.56 between Chandler and Gilbert and the Gilbert average amount abolished was $6,121.74.
Davis and his wife, Becky, also a lead pastor, planted the church in Chandler over 20 years ago after they moved from Bloomington, Minnesota. The church celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2018.
Rev. Brad Davis
Northrop Grumman expanding its Gilbert footprint
BY LACEY LYONS GSN Staff Writer
Northrop Grumman Corp., last Thursday, broke ground for a major expansion of its Gilbert satellite manufacturing facility and the addition of an administrative and engineering building.
Northrop Grumman will be adding 100,000-square-feet to the current satellite manufacturing facility as well as a new 120,000-square-foot administrative and engineering building at the Gilbert Spectrum Business Park at McQueen and Elliot roads.
“As we have grown the past 28 years in Gilbert, we are proud to be a long-standing partner with both the town, community, plus the State of Arizona,” said Chris Keeler, the Gilbert site lead.
Northrop Grumman is one of the largest aerospace defense equipment companies manufacturing weapons and military technology.
The Gilbert campus produces satellites for domestic and international customers along with testing high profile satellite missions to assist in national security.
“The addition to the satellite manufacturing facility doubles the current production capacity giving us even
“I really appreciate the long-standing relationship the town has had with Northrop and for all of those who work and live here,” Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels said.
“We are a well-oiled machine when we work together and I think both from the advancements you all continue to produce and the town doing our best to work at the speed of business, I see continued collaboration and great success for all of us,” she added.
DeMauro said the expansion will help Grumman further its efforts “to deliver higher reliability, flexible and responsive space products for our customers here and around the world.”
more room to meet the increased demand for our products from our customers,” said Frank DeMauro, vice president and general manager at Northrop Grumman Tactical Space Systems.
“This is the second significant expansion in recent years and will continue to add job growth in Gilbert as we continue to support our customers,” Keeler said.
DeMauro said Gilbert’s Northrop expansion is projected to create 500 new career opportunities and the company plans on filling those jobs over the next few months.
Arizona’s medical pot consumption near 83 tons last year
BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services
Arizonans legally smoked, ate or otherwise consumed nearly 83 tons of marijuana last year.
That’s nearly double the figure from two years ago.
It’s also the equivalent of about 331,400 eight-ounce bags of Cheetos.
Looking at it another way, that’s more than 222 million joints, assuming a gram of the drug produces three joints.
The latest report from the state Department of Health Services has no fi-
nancial figures, as any financial data from the state-regulated dispensa ries is confidential.
But if an ounce of aver age weed goes for $200 -– and there’s a lot of vari ables there – that’s a half a billion dollars expended in 2019, on medical marijuana.
And this is just the stuff state health officials know about, based on the reports it gets from the more than 100 legal dispensaries around the state.
The big unknown is how many medical marijuana patients are getdrugs from other sources which may be more convenient or cheaper.
And none of that counts for those who are buying and using the drug illegally.
Other findings in the new report also show:
On average, more marijuana was sold on a daily basis in December than any other month;
Male patients outnumber females 3-to-2.
And if you divide up the number of legal medical marijuana patients by the amount of the drug sold in Arizona law year, the average user consumed more than an ounce a month.
Under a 2010 voter-approved law, patients with certain medical conditions and a doctor’s recommendation can obtain up to 2 1/2 ounces of marijuana every two weeks.
Those conditions range from cancer
see WEED page 14
The new Northrup Grumman Corp. administrative and engineering building will be located in Gilbert Spectrum Business Park with an expected completion by the end of the year. The expansion of the satellite facility likely will be completed in mid-2021. (Northrup Grumman)
Town officials and Northrup Grumman executives help shovel during the ceremonial groundbreaking for the corporation’s expansion in Gilbert last week. (Lacey Lyons/GSN Staff)
Two competing education bills draw ire
BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services
State lawmakers took the first steps last week toward asking voters to sharply increase the special sales tax for education, setting the stage for voters to be able to pick and choose between two separate proposals – or potentially adopt or reject them both.
On a 5-3 margin, with all Democrats opposed, the Senate Education Committee voted to put a proposal on the November ballot, to increase the current 0.6-cent levy first authorized by voters in 2000, to a full penny. Legislative budget staffers estimate it could raise an extra $580 million a year.
Putting the issue on the ballot avoids the possibility of a veto by Gov. Doug Ducey, who remains adamantly opposed to any new taxes. Ducey said the state has enough money to take care of its educational needs.
Meanwhile education advocates – including the Arizona Education Association, operating under the umbrella of Invest in Education – already filed its own proposal to raise $940 million a year for education through a surcharge on the income of individuals making more than $250,000 a year or $500,000 for married couples filing jointly.
Backers have until July 2, to collect the necessary 237,645 valid signatures to put the issue on the November ballot.
This potentially paves the way for both to go to voters to decide on.
But Sen. Martin Quezada, D-Glendale, is worried about having two competing measures on the ballot – and lots of money spent on both campaigns –would so confuse voters they, in turn, reject both, leaving education with no new funds at all.
Central to the issue is the concession,
by the governor, the allocation of state aid for education in his budget for the coming school year would still not bring state funding for K-12 education back to where it was before the recession.
The question now is how much more is needed and how to raise it.
Ducey insists the state has enough without any new taxes. But both the Invest in Education initiative and SCR 1002 are crafted to go directly to voters, giving the governor no official voice in their outcome.
The more far-reaching proposal is the initiative.
David Lujan, director of the Arizona Center for Economic Progress, one of the groups behind the measure, said polling shows a tax on the wealthiest is the most acceptable.
He said it also makes the state income tax system more progressive, meaning those at the top pay are an even greater percentage than those at the bottom.
Lujan said it makes sense given that most of the tax breaks of the past decade and more have benefited corporations and the wealthy with things like additional tax breaks for capital gains.
More to the point, Lujan objects to the idea of higher sales taxes in SCR 1002, saying it would place a disproportionate burden on those at or near the bottom of the income scale.
Lujan said 20 percent of the money proposed to be raised would be borne by those earning less than $23,000 a year.
“It would only make Arizona’s regressive tax code even more regressive,’’ he said.
Sen. Sylvia Allen, R-Snowflake, disagreed, calling it “a fair and equal tax,’’ with everyone paying the same rate.
And Sen. Kate Brophy McGee, R-Phoenix, the sponsor of SCR 1002, said there’s no way the Invest in Education measure can raise the kind of funds Lujan predicts.
“Taxing the wealthy does not work,’’ she said. Brophy McGee said people who would be hit with the surcharge “are wealthy enough to take measure to not pay it.’’
Phil Francis, the retired CEO of PetSmart, a champion of raising money for education through sales taxes, called the Invest in Education proposal “shortsighted.’’
Credit Union gives Gilbert teacher 5K in supplies
A Gilbert teacher apparently won’t have to dig into her purse to pay for her classroom supplies this year.
Jenny Hagen, a fourth-grade teacher at Pioneer Elementary in Gilbert Public Schools, learned last week she won $5,000 worth of supplies from Desert Financial Credit Union’s Adopt-a-Teacher program.
“I am so excited and thrilled to be cho-
sen for this Adopt a Teacher program, and I can’t wait to see all the amazing things I get to bring into my classroom,” Hagen said.
Earlier this month, hundreds of teachers from across Maricopa, Gila and Pinal County submitted their classroom wish lists for a chance Desert Financial’s program.
Hagen is one of six teachers from around the Valley randomly selected from those submissions.
The other East Valley winner, Hartford Elementary’s third-grade teacher Jennifer Vidrios, said, “I love hands-on, interactive activities that require movement and projects, but many times those lessons require supplies that go beyond your typical list. Desert Financial will help to make my engaging teacher dreams a reality.”
“Adopted” teachers will be awarded up to $5,000 in items from their submitted list throughout 2020.
“Desert Financial was founded by 15 Valley teachers more than 80 years ago and we’ve been deeply involved in supporting the education system ever since,” says Desert Financial President/ CEO Jeff Meshey.
“This year, we wanted to enhance our longtime Teacher Appreciation program by enabling teachers to share what’s most needed in their classroom and then help make it happen,” he added.
State Sen. Kate Brophy McGee is a sponsor of the bill that ask voters for an increase in the sales tax to help fund education. (Howard Fischer/Capitol Media Services)
GSN NEWS STAFF
He said any tax increase on the top wage earners will harm the ability of the state to attract and retain businesses.
John Graham, CEO of Sunbelt Holdings, a Scottsdale-based real estate development firm, called the SCR a “thoughtful, clean, clear and something our business community could easily support.’’
Another key difference between the two plans is while all the proceeds for the Invest in Education plan would be earmarked for K-12 education, SCR 1002 would spread the money.
After some money taken off the top, the measure would give about 83 percent of what’s left to public schools. There would also be some cash to stabi-
SCHOOL from page 9
more than two decades working for Intel in senior management roles.
He is currently a member of the Arizona School Facilities Board.
Students who currently attend Weinberg Elementary, which is being turned into a school for gifted students next year, will attend the new school.
Like Weinberg, the new school will offer both the Chandler Traditional Academies (CTA) education model as well as a “classical” education and parents will have a choice on the type of instruction their child will receive.
lize tuition at the state’s three universities while continuing to put dollars into technology and research.
And it also would earmark some funds for community colleges largely for trade and workforce development programs.
Lujan, under questioning from Brophy McGee, conceded the Invest in Education proposal does nothing to help the higher education system.
But he said backers believe they need to focus on K-12.
“We have a funding crisis in our public schools right now,’’ he said, saying it would take an additional $4 billion a year in resources to bring per-pupil funding up to the national average.
Sen. Andrea Dalessandro, D-Green Valley, said the need is particularly acute in public schools, where a survey found
“We are working hard to establish a neighborhood school that delivers strong instruction aligned to the Arizona standards and offers a wide variety of extra-curricular opportunities for our students,” said Camille Castille, superintendent of CUSD. “Rice Elementary will provide options for parents with respect to students’ instructional needs and foster parent and community involvement through partnerships with all school stakeholders.”
Built with bond money approved last year by voters, the school is scheduled to be completed in time for the next school year.
about 1,800 classrooms without a certified teacher.
That comparison with the national average drew a strong response from Sen. Rick Gray, R-Sun City, who said it was unfair to compare Arizona education funding to other states.
He said only about 17 percent of the land in Arizona is in public hands –meaning its taxable – with everything else in federal hands or tribal reservations. By contrast, Gray said, 98 percent of Texas is private land.
And Sen. Tyler Pace, R-Mesa, said he sees sales taxes as the fairest way to collect additional revenues, noting there are corporations that pay no income taxes.
“But all of these companies are purchasing something,’’ Pace said. “This
WEED
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and glaucoma to AIDS and post-traumatic stress disorder. But by far the largest category of patients are those who complain of “chronic pain.’’
The most recent figures show there are close to 220,000 people who have cards allowing them to legally purchase the drug.
Health department figures also show the vast majority of what was purchased last year was the whole marijuana form, meaning the leaves and flowers many can smoke or make into a tea.
Only about 10 percent was in other forms, including edibles like candy bars and drinks, as well as pills and liquids.
The 2019 sales figures of nearly 166,000 pounds have once again set a new record. That compares with less
(sales) tax would guarantee that those who run these large companies that are declaring billion dollars in losses are still paying some tax in our state on the things they are consuming as a business,’’ he said.
Quezada sought to double an existing state income tax credit to offset any additional burden some people might incur due to higher sales taxes.
It would have spelled out individuals earning up to $25,000 a year would get to take $50 off what they owe when they file their state income taxes. And families with a combined income up to $50,000 would get a $200 income tax credit.
But this proposal was defeated on a party-line vote in the Republican-controlled committee.
than 122,000 pounds for 2018, 87,000 pounds for 2017 and about 58,600 pounds in 2016.
It was a 52 percent increase over 2015 sales which, in turn, were double the 2014 numbers.
By the numbers
Arizona counties with the most medical marijuana patients include:
Cochise 3,185
Coconino 4,350
Maricopa 143,379
Mohave 5,054
Navajo 2,615
Pima 30,010
Pinal 13,395
Yavapai 10,953
Community
Quilters are busy as bees at HD SOUTH
BY SRIANTHI PERERA
GSN Contributor
Three days a week, a quilting bee meets at HD SOUTH, home of the Gilbert Historical Museum.
In a cavernous room secluded from the rest of the building, the volunteers work around a large frame in quiet companionship, wielding needle and thread to complete quilt tops and fashion them into works of art.
Each spring, they also organize a display of the community’s quilts in what has become a popular show.
Now in its 15th year, the “Art of Quilting” will take place from Feb. 25 to May 25. The show coincides with “A Night at the Museum,” the Gilbert Historical Society’s fundraising gala on Feb. 29.
The community is invited to submit applications for the quilt show Feb. 4 to 15 with a focus on Nine Patch Quilts. Other quilting styles are also accepted.
“We have about 8,000 visitors annually at HD SOUTH, with about half of them coming during the spring,” said Kayla Kolar, president and CEO. “There are many
winter visitors in Arizona during that time, so we are happy to share this special quilt exhibit every year.”
During the three months, the walls and hallways of the oldest building in Gilbert
will spill out with more than 100 quilts. One room will highlight the nine-patch style, one of the earliest forms of patchwork quilts. In its simplest arrangement, it consists of joining nine squares of fabric to form a larger square, though there are many variations.
“It’s nine blocks, but you can cut them and turn them and it makes beautiful geometric designs. There’s a lot of creativity involved in it,” said Kathy Lester, a member of the quilting bee who leads the group of about 25 along with fellow quilter Ginny Martin.
Lester has been quilting for about 30 years, joining the bee after she attended one of its shows a decade ago.
“I fell in love with it and I’ve been here every week since,” she said. “I had young kids and it wasn’t always convenient to set up a quilt in the living room. It wasn’t till
QUILTS page 19
Gilbert singer went from boy band to soloist
BY JANELLE MOLONY GSN Contributor
Sterling Alexander, 30, Gilbert pop singer says people are constantly comparing his music to Neo and Chris Brown, but the solo artist would prefer to share the same vibes as his music idols –Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars and Post Malone.
Alexander got started singing in high school during a production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” the Tim Rice/Andrew Lloyd Weber creation.
“It’s singing only. There are no lines. So, to audition, I had to sing,” Alexander recalled.
Before that, he joked, he had never sung before outside of a shower. “Un-
til I did my solo song, nobody thought I was a singer,” Alexander explained.
He said the performance surprised his community in Abilene, Texas, and prompted him to consider singing more.
In college, Alexander pursued classical voice training in Los Angeles at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. Within a year of graduating, he was working in theatre production when he was asked if he could sing.
“My friend Bryan talked to me
Sterling Alexander of Gilbert performed “History” for the crowd that gathered at the Night of Hope gathering in Chandler last month. (Special to GSN)
about a band project. The idea behind it was to create a multicultural boyband,” Alexander said.
His contribution to the team would be to represent the African American culture.
“We were called ‘Reign,’” he offered, describing the instability and pressure to find a record label. “We performed for Universal Music Group and Warner Bros. Music… but it didn’t work out.”
After the glitz of the L.A. lifestyle worn off, Alexander relocated to Gilbert, where he started songwriting, playing the acoustic guitar and the piano and looking for ways to improve on his talent.
A friend in Nashville continued to en-
see SINGER page 19
Laurie Abdo Laurie Abdo at HD South brought in her mother’s quilt to be completed and was inspired to join the bee. (Srianthi Perera/GSN Contributor)
Highland Junior High student is champ speller
F-i-d-u-c-i-a-r-y.
That’s the word Highland Junior High School student Addisyn Frost correctly spelled to win the Gilbert Public Schools District spelling bee, advancing her to regionals and the chance to compete in the state competition.
The 7th-grader was one of 90 students who competed in Tempe, Chandler and Gilbert spelling bees in January.
Each of the finalists received a trophy, ribbon and bookstore gift card from Assistance League of East Valley, which partnered with Arizona Education Foundation to sponsor bees in the three districts.
The Gilbert finalists in the district bee are Emily Mabb, 7th grader at Desert Ridge Junior High; Stone Guymon, 8th grader at Gilbert Classical Academy; Natalie Baron, 4th grader at Ashland Ranch Elementary; Matthew Weech, 6th grader at Carol Rae Ranch Elementary; Austin Johnson, 7th grader at Greenfield Junior High; Tyler Mantanona, 5th grader at Canyon Rim Elementary and Sifarth Rahaman, 5th grader at Harris Elementary.
All the finalists from each district, not just the champion, will represent their districts in a regional bee.
The upcoming regional spelling bee for Region 6, which includes Chandler, Gilbert, Higley and Queen Creek is open to the public Feb. 20, at Mesquite Junior High School auditorium. Maricopa County is divided into six regions based on school district.
The winners from these events will go on to compete in the 2020 Arizona Spelling Bee on March 21 at Arizona PBS, 500 N. Central St., Phoenix.
The State Spelling Bee is the penultimate showdown with 27 students from across the state competing to determine who will represent Arizona in the 93rd Scripps National Spelling Bee in
Washington, D.C. on May 24-29.
Last year’s state spelling bee winner was a 6th grader from Desert Canyon Middle School in Scottsdale. Gilbert students have won the state competition in 2014, 2007, 2006 and 2005.
The national contest in May is expected to feature about 400 spellers. Last year the contest had an unprecedented eight winners and a record 565 participants.
The champion will receive a number of prizes, including $50,000 cash and an engraved trophy from Scripps National Spelling Bee, a $2,500 cash prize and reference library from Merriam-Webster, $400 worth of reference works from Encyclopaedia Britannica, a trip to New York to appear on Live with Kelly and Ryan, and a trip to Hollywood to appear on ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live!
An Arizona student hasn’t won the national contest this century.
GSN NEWS STAFF
Highland Junior High student Addisyn Frost captured the big rice in the GPS Spelling Bee. (Special to GSN)
Gilbert Christian freshman scores in essay contest
Mason Mignano, a freshman at Gilbert Christian High School, has won second place in the national Speaking Out For Freedom essay and video competition hosted by the Ashbrook Center at Ashland University.
The Gilbert teen, son of Michael and Laura Mignano, wrote an essay that had to address questions such as, “What is the American Idea? How has the American Idea helped us overcome past struggles in our nation’s history, and how should it unite us during these politically divisive times?”
Essayists also were required to reference the Declaration of Independence, Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.
Mason is a busy student on and off campus.
He plays on the high school soccer team, trains in jiu jitsu at Solid Ground Jiu Jitsu/ Atos East Valley, volunteers in the chil-
Mason Mignano
dren’s department and set-up/tear-down crew at Calvary East Valley Church, has the role of George Wickham in the upcoming school production of “Pride and Prejudice” and plays acoustic and electric guitar.
In his essay, Mason wrote, “Overlooking a battlefield where over 50,000 American
patriots sacrificed their lives, Abraham Lincoln solemnly began a speech: ‘Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth, on this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal’…This idea would be echoed throughout America’s history… Refocusing on this same ideal can also help us through our current politically divisive times.”
His winning entry comes with a $250 prize.
“The students who contributed essays and videos to this year’s Speaking Out For Freedom competition demonstrated an understanding of our nation’s struggles to fulfill the self-evident truths of the Declaration of Independence throughout our history and our struggle to live up to those truths today,” said Ashbrook Center interim executive director Jeffrey Sikkenga.
The Ashbrook Center is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit educational organization offering programs and materials for U.S. history, government and
social studies teachers; collections of the country’s most important documents and writings on a wide range of topics; and an online portal to these and other resources: TeachingAmericanHistory.org.
In his essay, Mason retraced the founding of America, including how the Declaration of Independence contains a “unifying core belief in individual freedom.”
He then moved to the Gettysburg Address, noting how Lincoln reminded war-weary Union troops that “the unique American ideal of freedom was worth the fight.”
In writing about King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, Mason said, “King knew Americans needed to be reminded of the freedom envisioned by the founding fathers.”
“King’s focus on individual unalienable rights was a direct allusion to our founding ideal.”
He also noted how Americans came together in World War II, noting “Today, America is facing a new political crisis at home” and that Americans “should refocus” on the ideal of individual rights.
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the kids grew up and I had the spare time that I could do this.”
After a long career at a leading insurance company, Lester finds the bee “relaxing” and “therapeutic.”
“We are always looking for new quilters,” she said.
They can be of any age. No rigorous qualifications are necessary, except, perhaps, some patience, interest in learning and free time. Some members have introduced their daughters to the art.
Currently, there are no men.
“A couple of husbands come now and then, they’ll put in a few stitches and that’s it. They’re just here for the atmosphere,” Lester said.
Quilters come and go. Some are winter visitors, so the numbers dwindle during summer.
Volunteers are constantly in demand because there’s an almost unlimited supply of quilt tops coming from the community that need completing.
Bee members draw the pattern, handstitch the quilt and place backing to complete it. The owner pays a nominal fee that
SINGER from page 16
courage him to not let go of his dream.
“He believed I had what it would take to succeed as a recording artist,” Alexander said. “I picked up a book called Writing Better Lyrics (Pat Pattison), studied hard, worked hard and wrote some horrible songs.”
But he dusted off his shoulders and started over again. With the help of a musician connection made at a Chandler church, Alexander started learning how to compose and produce songs with better beats.
The new recordings caught the attention of a producer he was affiliated with back in L.A. This led to him getting “linked up” with a mentor from Sony Music.
“With his expert guidance, I completed my first single, ‘History’,” released in 2018. He’s released three songs since then and is currently seeking an agent or manager to assist with producing a full CD.
Alexander attributes his recent
goes toward the center’s operations.
Currently, there’s a waiting list of 18 to 24 months because the bee can finish only 10 to 12 quilts a year.
“People now do machine quilting because it’s easier and it’s faster, but people bring us the old quilt tops that they find that mom or grandma had and they never quilted, so we have some real nice old pieces,” Lester said.
At the bee, experienced quilters work with beginners because they strive to maintain the highest-quality of
growth to being connected to people who saw past his limits and pointed out his potential.
“Continuing to push,” and be pushed by those who are in the business, has taken the artist further than waiting for a lucky strike.
When asked what advice he’d give to a young and hopeful artist in the community, he offered, “In the digital media age, the world is [yours]. Continue to put your work out there on social media and become an expert on what you do [that is unique]. From there, anything can happen.”
Alexander’s new singles are being rolled out on a regular basis. “Invisible” in November of 2019, “Done” in December and another song is coming out in March.
His music is easy to find on Spotify, Google Play and Apple Music. Listeners can subscribe now to his Instagram account @sterling_alexander for updates on the new release, or to follow his journey and be encouraged along their own.
hand-stitching.
Similar to how the bee works, the tasks to organize the show are also shared by all members of the group.
Each member manages an aspect that they are good at, from installation of the exhibit and designing the collateral pieces to writing copy for the labels.
Some quilts are machine quilted. Lester calls them “works of art.” But it’s not a competition.
“We don’t judge them; it’s just to appreciate and inspire people,” she said.
In this electronic day and age, are quilts really worth the time and energy?
“Quilts are timeless,” Kolar said. “Almost everyone loves a beautiful quilt for their bed or as a wall hanging. Many families have passed quilts down through the generations.
“Many modern quilts are used as art. Most are machine quilted for speed and convenience, but the art of hand-quilting is almost priceless,” she added. “The time it takes and the care that goes into each stitch cannot be matched.”
LOOK AND LEARN
Special event: History Café: Arizona Quilts
History from 10 a.m. to noon on March 28 at HD SOUTH will feature Carol de Cosmo of Arizona Farm and Ranch Experience taking participants on a nostalgic journey through documentation of Arizona’s historic quilts.
Quilt show: The show will run from Feb. 25 to May 25. HD South is located at 10 S. Gilbert Road. Open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Tuesday through Saturday (museum ad mission applies). Information: 480-926-1577 or hdsouth.org/events/#quilting for more information.
ANSWERS TO PUZZLES AND SUDOKU on Page 34
Quilters at HD South organize the “Art of Quilting” show each year with more than a 100 community quilts. (Srianthia Perera/GSN Contributor)
Highland High senior wins essay contest
GSN NEWS STAFF
AHighland High School senior took first place in a creative writing contest.
Fiona Sauve won in the 11th-12th grade category in the Arizona Educational Foundation’s annual Polly Rosenbaum Creative Writing Contest for her poem. She is a student of Lisa Loschetter-Geusic.
This wasn’t Fiona’s first win in the contest. The teen while in the 9th grade took second place in 2017 and first place in 2018 as a 10th grader.
The creative writing contest is open to students in grades 7 - 12 who currently attend a public school in Arizona.
My brother’s sufferings are my sufferings
The incessant rhythm of daily life, The perpetual commotion, Monotony, And activity That saturates Every second Of every day, Absorbs the individual into Himself. He becomes so Immersed In his own affairs That he forsakes The affairs Of his brothers. He becomes a victim Of passivity and negligence, And though he is active, He is active Within, Not without. The sole way He can redirect his footing From the selfish path Onto the path Of compassion and generosity Is through Service.
I myself Was once a victim Of passivity and negligence.
I focused on my own Concerns, And failed to Open my eyes To the concerns Of others. Yet service has refreshed My spirit. I am no longer Reluctant To extend a hand To my fellow man. Perhaps my brother Has advanced in years, Hair turning from Ebony To silver, Memories from Bygone years Slowly slipping away. I can choose to ignore The elderly, Or I can offer Conversation, Companionship, And a smiling face To ensure Comfort, Rest, And peace In their final moments Of life.
For my brother’s elderliness Is my elderliness.
First place winners receive a $50 gift certificate; second place winners receive a $25 gift certificate, and third place winners receive a $15 gift certificate.
The top students in each category of the 2020 contest and their guests will join state leaders for an awards ceremony, 9:30 a.m. Feb. 14 at the State Capitol, 1700W. Washington St. Arizona’s Poet Laureate, Alberto Rios and 2016 AEF Arizona Teacher of the Year
Or perhaps my brother Rests on the sidewalk, Invisible to hurried passersby. His face is gaunt, His stomach empty, His sufferings extreme. I can choose to ignore The homeless, Or I can offer Food, Shelter, And support To ensure They are able To once again Stand tall And rebuild their lives. For my brother’s suffering Is my suffering. Or perhaps my brother Evaded the law, And resides Behind bars Of punishment. I can choose to ignore The imprisoned, Or I can offer My presence, My understanding, And my virtue To ensure They regain Righteousness And honesty,
Christine Marsh are scheduled to speak.
The writing contest is named for Polly Rosenbaum, a former House representative in the state Legislature and teacher, who passed away in 2003 at the age of 104. This writing contest is a long-standing tradition honoring Rosenbaum, who believed Arizona’s young people are the state’s greatest resource.
Each year the Arizona Educational Foundation establishes a theme for the writing contest. The theme for this year was, “What ideas do you have for citizens to actively engage in their communities?”
Below is Fiona’s winning entry.
And to ensure They are Remembered. For my brother’s shame Is my shame. Or perhaps my brother Was forsaken, And lives Under constant Fear and shame, Knowing that he Was not wanted. I can choose to ignore The abandoned, Or I can offer A home, A shoulder on which to cry, And love To ensure The forsaken know They are indeed Wanted.
For my brother’s loneliness Is my loneliness.
Or perhaps my brother Lies not in his own bed, But under the sterile sheets Of a hospital bed.
Or perhaps my brother Is not physically ill, But suffers mentally. Or perhaps my brother Endures a crippling disability, And must overcome
Embarrassment and difficulty
With every step he takes.
I can choose to ignore
The ill and disabled, Or I can offer My attention, My voice, And my friendship To ensure They heal
With the help Of those who care.
For my brother’s pain Is my pain.
Service is, By far,
The most purposeful way To connect with others, To break free Of the chains Of passivity and negligence. For only if my brother’s Elderliness, Suffering, Shame, Loneliness, And pain
Become mine as well, Will I be one With my fellow man.
Fiona Sauve
Gilbert jeweler says her pieces promote health
BY JANELLE MOLONY GSN Contributor
Megan Bell, business owner in Gilbert, showcases her “Christ Ark” necklace as a visually delightful representation of love for a mother.
Bell is the owner-operator of Pyradyne, a specialty jeweler that uses medical science and physics to harness, detox and re-balance the body.
Each item is said to promote a powerful healing or soothing effect on the wearer, Bell said.
In the case of the “Christ Ark” piece, geometric designs play off the light and energy of the central gemstone.
“My mother is an artist and one of her works inspired me. I wondered if it could become a reality, then we did it,” she said. Her business does not currently have a local storefront, but that is a current goal of Bell’s.
After 45 years in operation, it’s time to have the wearable art within closer reach. Bell said, explaining:
“I dream of having a place where shoppers can interact with colors and stones and enjoy the experience in an interactive way.”
In the meantime, she strives to make online ordering as seamless as possible.
Bell began working with Pyradyne as an intern when her father originally ran the company.
She is the daughter of famed NASA rockect scientist and quantum physicist,
Fred Bell, Ph.D.
Megan Bell took full ownership in 2011 after his passing. Besides the newly created “Christ Ark,” the genius of metallurgy, physics and gemology is all still credited to her father.
When asked about the science behind
State House panel expands charity tax deductions
BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services
State lawmakers took the first steps last week toward reducing state revenues to give more incentives for Arizonans to donate to charity.
HB 2356 would allow those who do not itemize on their returns – where they could claim charitable deductions – to still be able to deduct 50 percent of what they have given off their adjusted state income, on which income taxes are calculated.
The 6-4 vote by the House Ways and Means Committee came over the objections of the Democrats, who complained that the state was foregoing revenues that
could be used to meet needs.
But Republicans on the panel said the state needs to do something to shore up sagging charitable donations.
The problem has its roots in the changes in the 2017 federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which made major changes in the laws governing individual and corporate income taxes.
Of note is the provision that took the standard deduction for single filers from $6,500 to the current $12,200; for couples filing jointly the change went form $13,000 to $24,400 now. The state, in its own changes to the tax code, followed suit.
The result is that many more individuals now choose not to itemize.
But the fallout, according to Brandy Petrone, a lobbyist for the Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits, was that without the financial incentive to give, donations dropped by $323 million.
Lawmakers sought to help last year with legislation to allow a 25 percent deduction for donations made by those who take the standard deduction.
Now Rep. Ben Toma, R-Peoria, the sponsor of HB 2356, wants to double that.
The flip side, according to Rep. Pamela Powers Hannley, is that it would double the $24 million in reduced revenues from last year’s provision.
“I don’t think that it’s fiscally responsible again to double that and take $50 million
out of the general fund when it could be spent or invested on other things that the state needs besides tax breaks,’’ she said.
Toma said that ignores the state’s current fiscal situation.
“We’re sitting on a billion dollars last year in additional revenue. We’re sitting on another billion this year in additional revenue. This is not losing money. We’re doing very well,” Toma said.
The issue, he said, is dealing with the effects of the tax law changes on others.
“We’ve hurt a segment that we all want to help,’’ Toma said, rejecting the premise that somehow the state is ‘losing’’ money
Megan Bell and family, local business owner and daughter of legendary Dr. Fred Bell, Ph.D. (Special to GSN)
Christ Ark necklace designed by mother-daughter team Megan and mother, Rowena.Nuclear Receptor necklace with a sample selection of gemstones. Special to GSN)
Derma Health opening San Tan Pavillions clinic
GSN NEWS STAFF
Derma Health Skin & Laser will open at SanTan Pavilions in Gilbert this month.
Locally owned and operated Derma Health, founded In 2004, provides medical grade aesthetic services to men and women.
The new 1,800-square-foot clinic, located in San Tan Pavilions near At Home and CycleBar, will “provide a wide range of services and educate patients on the latest innovations is very exciting,” said Trish Gulbranson, founder and CEO of Derma Health.
The location marks a continuation of the company’s rebranding of its space from medical office to a retail setting with a design similar to its recently opened clinic in Desert Ridge Marketplace.
The Gilbert clinic will offer five treat-
JEWELRY
from page 22
the decorative designs, Bell said, the concept “is simple, but difficult to replicate.”
She explained how sound, as an energy form, can manifest as positive or negative patterns that impact our bodies at a micro-cellular level.
“It’s been experimented with many times. When people speak over something, then flash-freeze the material, we can see the molecules expressing either an absolutely perfect geometric design,” she said.
She likened it to a positive sound such as expressions of love, encouragement, or even classical music “or a negative and fractured state.”
Several variations of these experiments are on YouTube.com with the tester speaking to water, rice, and plants.
The biological material responds distinctly under a microscope.
Pyradyne products capitalize on this science by incorporating those “perfect” patterns in a stunning array of metals and precious stones.
The claim that wearing the jewelry produced a healing effect was independently verified by Dr. Howard White, clinical psychologist of New York, NY, in 1977.
ment rooms and the lobby features light blue and white shiplap walls with built in
In a letter to Dr. Fred Bell regarding testing performed with Pyradyne products, White noted increases in “physical energy and muscular strength,” mood elevation and relaxation while using the items tested.
The results of his study were “quite uniform and reliable,” according to the clinical findings letter, though the details of the study are not available to the public.
One of the most powerful jewelry items is the “Nuclear Receptor” necklace.
Though its name suggests something other-worldly, the pendant resembles an intricately studded disc with arcs of metal holding a single gemstone in the middle.
The jewelry is gender-neutral, but when asked what these particular items did for women, considering the upcoming Mother’s Day, Bell replied:
“The number one comment we hear is that it provides an emotional balance.”
Beyond this, she listed increases in energy and overall uplift and feelings of peace.
When considering options for upcoming Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day gifts, Pyradyne necklaces catch the eyes for their beauty but also fit the “most wanted” list that many women make.
As a new mother, Bell has begun exploring more ways to bring healthier en-
Two treatment rooms feature full length glass walls and all have deep blue wallpaper and white cabinetry. The Gilbert clinic will provide a full menu of medical aesthetic services, including CoolSculpting.
More than 50,000 patients have received treatments and services at Derma Health, which offers laser, skin and body treatments, Botox, dermal fillers, body contouring and medical grade aesthetic services, according to the company –which administers 1,000 Botox and filler injections a month at all Valley locations. Extended weekday and weekend hours are provided to accommodate busy schedules.
The new clinic will be located at 2480 S. San Tan Village Parkway, Suite J-105 in Gilbert.
white, glass and brass retail shelving for skin care products, a spokeswoman said.
ergy into her own home.
When asked how a mom could use the standalone, detoxifying Pyramid products, she suggested “while reading, near the bed for better sleep, in the kitchen while you work… anywhere!” As for benefitting a baby by putting one in the nursery, she exclaimed, “Yes! Why not?”
Better sleep? For mom and baby? It almost sounds too good to be true, but the testimonials customers share on Instagram and YouTube regarding their positive experiences, are difficult to dismiss.
It’s also hard to ignore the celebrity sightings with Pyradyne jewelry.
“Our products are being seen on a ton of major influencers now,” said Bell, naming celebrities like singer Sade, musician James Brown, actor Wesley Snipes and heavyweight champion Ken Norton.
Shoppers don’t have to spend like celebrities to enjoy the beauty and benefit of the jewelry that goes above and beyond decorating the décolletage. Pyramids start at $49, the “Christ Ark” necklaces at $275, and “Nuclear Receptors” at $299.
Choosing the best product for a loved one requires a little sleuthing.
“Watch the colors they already like or seek. Observe the stones [and met-
Information: dermahealthinstitute. com.
als] they prefer. People resonate toward certain vibrational frequencies,” Bell explained.
She says people’s favorite colors are indicators of a subconscious draw to an energy type. If a gift recipient would like to explore other options, Bell is available to assist with an exchange and more tailored selection over the phone.
Through a short survey and a guided kinesthetic test, Bell can make a more customized recommendation and process the exchange.
“Just contact us straightaway,” she added. Most designs are easy to ship almost immediately, but a custom piece can take a couple of weeks to be handcrafted from scratch. The online shopfront is at Pyradyne.com and Bell is available for questions or assistance with picking the perfect gift by phone at 623-295-9224.
Derma Health kin & Laser’s new Gilbert location will be continuing a rebranding started last year at its new Desert Ridge Marketplace clinic as it moves from a medical office to a retail look. (Special to GSN)
from page 22
with this legislation. The state only has taxpayer money. All this means is the state will take less money than it would have otherwise from the average taxpayer.’’
Toma said he thinks Arizona is the only state agreeing to let taxpayers who do not itemize take charitable deductions.
“We’re trendsetting,’’ he said. “Hopefully the feds will pay attention to what we’re doing and allow the same thing to happen the next time they do reform.’’
The legislation has no requirement that the donations go to Arizona-based charities. But Toma told Capitol Media Services that’s irrelevant.
“I don’t know that the problem is just that Arizona nonprofits are being hurt,’’ he said.
“I think all nonprofits are being hurt nationally,’’ Toma said. “And a lot of nonprofits that function in Arizona, especially those that are bigger, tend to have operations all over the country, sometimes all over the world.’’
And Toma said he was not concerned that Arizona would be giving a tax break
to those who might choose to donate to a charity that works in another state.
“It’s the people’s money to begin with. If an individual person wants to donate to a Colorado nonprofit because they happen to do good work all around, it’s your money,’’ Toma said. “You should be able to do whatever you want with it and support whatever nonprofit you choose.’’
Before approving the change, committee members rejected a proposal by Rep. Mitzi Epstein, D-Tempe, to allow the higher deduction only through 2025.
She said that given the sometimes cyclical nature of the Arizona economy, lawmakers could revisit the issue and the revenue implications in five years.
Toma has a fall back plan in case his colleagues balk at doubling the deduction. His HB 2355 would increase that 25 percent deduction annually, but only by the amount of inflation. Democrats point out that there is no cap in how high that deduction would be able to go. In spite of that, HB 2355 was approved by the committee along the same 6-4 party-line margin. Both bills now need approval of the full House.
I attended the Virginia gun rally to defend my rights
BY CHRISTINA MENDEZ GSN Guest Writer
Iam a 29-year-old Hispanic woman living in Gilbert. I am an artist by trade and have no political affiliation.
And I support the Second Amendment. Gun rights are not a racial issue. They are not a matter of political affiliation and they are not a privilege to be revoked. Self-defense is a basic human right.
Recently I attended the gun rally in Virginia to show support for what has become our most controversial constitutional right. The mood was electric and positive with people attending of all ethnic backgrounds and walks of life. It didn’t feel like a state of emergency.
But before I went, I waded through count-
less headlines that would have convinced most people I was attending a white supremacist rally.
This idea that the Second Amendment is only valued by racist, white men is deep-seated in current social thinking. But common sense says that race has zero to do with protecting yourself.
Who is most in need of self-defense but those outnumbered or physically disadvantaged? Think minorities and women.
In feminist circles, guns are often referred to as “The Great Equalizer.” To us women, a firearm is often the only difference between life and death.
Martin Luther King Jr. applied for a concealed carry permit after his home was bombed but was denied that right because of the color of his skin.
It is time for us to ditch this propagated myth that defending oneself is a white man’s
cause and start questioning the motives of any agency that would have us believe that.
It is a minority cause, a women’s cause, an LGBT cause. More than that, it is the right of every living organism.
Deep within the DNA of every living thing is a peculiarly resilient facet that resists being oppressed. It is that plucky rebelliousness of life that refuses to die. The flower growing amid the ashes. The songbird singing through the cage.
It is related to an innate sense of justice, this need to be free. It is the essence of life and vitality. It Is in this spirit that our constitution was written and it is this very same spirit that these rights are meant to protect.
Standing in the middle of that peaceful, determined crowd 22,000 people deep, I felt I was standing with family.
For a moment, we were just people – people determined to be heard; determined to
be free.
Looking up through the government-erected fence, up the steps to where the politicians stood looking down at us – those who would strip me of my ability to protect myself from harm – and looking up further still at the snipers that those same politicians had hired to keep a close eye on me, I felt something our founders understood.
I went to the rally in Virginia because I believe in the freedoms they fought for us to have.
I went because these freedoms are under attack.
I went because I believe these freedoms to be the main reason we have enjoyed our place as the most prosperous country in recorded human history.
And I went because I’d hate to be part of the generation responsible for letting it slip away.
Perry girls’ soccer seeks redemption after back-to-back title losses
BY MILLARD THOMAS GSN Contributor Writer
After heartbreaking one-score losses in back-to-back state title games, it’s easy to assume there is extra motivation in getting back to the final game and winning it all.
For Perry High School, there is no extra motivation for the girls’ soccer team because they have one goal, year-in and year-out. Take home the trophy.
“The expectation for this program is to get there,” Perry coach John Roberts said.
The Puma’s look to be on the right track to making a splash in the playoffs. They’re currently 11-2-2 on the year and ranked third in the 6A Conference.
The journey back to the promised land has not been as easy as advertised. Injuries have hampered the Puma’s all season.
In their first scrimmage game of the
year, Perry lost a critical piece when junior Joey Lujan went down. She hasn’t returned since.
Lujan was a central figure on the Puma’s last season as she finished tied for second on the team with 13 goals and led them with 21 assists.
She’s not the only player not to miss the majority of the season as junior Adelie Zechmann was lost in the first week of games as well.
Losing two important players is devastating for any program, but the Puma’s keep rallying thanks to their unwavering mentality and strong depth.
In sports, the ‘next man up’ mentality is talked about as a foundational pillar for any great team and the Puma’s exemplify that as well as anyone.
“Everyone has to be working as hard as the person next to them, so if you have
Highland basketball surprising everyone but themselves
BY CHRIS FAHRENDORF
GSN Contributor Writer
The Highland Hawks are currently in the midst of a breakout season.
After finishing 8-18 in head coach Todd Fazio’s first year at Highland, the Hawks are in the midst of a magical season as they have already beaten the likes of 6A contenders Skyline, Perry and last year’s 5A champion Gilbert and are currently 14-6 with five games left to play. Fazio acknowledged that while it may have been hard for those outside of the program to foresee this type turnaround, he had no doubt in his mind that this was coming.
“Last year everything was new. Those seniors that played last year, they didn’t choose me as their coach. I thought they did a great job,” Fazio said. “Sometimes it
just takes a year for them to get comfortable in what we do.”
Last year, the Hawks were senior heavy with seven on their roster. After graduating seven seniors most teams would take a step back. Not the Hawks. In the second year under Fazio the team has gotten off to a hot start by embracing his teachings of
defense and by contributing as much as they can, whenever they can.
“We have guys who are committed defensively and feel more comfortable with what we do,” Fazio said. “We’ve had several games where our bench, guys coming off the bench saved us. We’ve had several times where guys that came off the bench led us in scoring. I think that’s the strength of our team is we don’t rely on one, two or three guys. We have a lot of guys that are capable.”
Overall, the Hawks’ combination of senior leaders, up-and-coming underclassmen and role players that will do anything for the team is what makes them one of the most dangerous teams in the state.
Senior Tanner Crandall is one of those
see HIGHLAND page 27
Perry defender Kayla Campbell recognizes the importance of everyone in the soccer program being ready to go as injuries have hampered the Pumas this season. (Millard Thomas/GSN Contributor)
Highland senior guard Tanner Crandall has become one of the senior leaders for the Hawks this season, fighting through injuries to be there for his team. (Photo courtesy Donna Mundy)
leaders that has fully committed to Fazio’s teachings. During the football season he tore his left labrum, fought through the injury and ultimately returned for his team after a couple of weeks. At the beginning of this basketball season he injured it even further, but he refuses to quit on his team.
“I just love the game. I played my whole life and I just feel like coming back if I didn’t do it, I would’ve regretted it,” Crandall said. “If I’m strong enough to play and strong enough to help out my team then I figured I might as well.”
This dedication to the team has not gone unnoticed by Fazio. He believes having a player set the tone like Crandall has inspired his team to play with a sense of grit.
“If you just talk to his dad, you’ll see where his toughness came from,” Fazio said. “He’s a tough kid and I think those other guys see that. They see that he’s playing with a torn labrum, he’s waiting to have surgery at the end of the season, he’s willing to do that in order to play.”
Crandall’s play has helped sharp-shooting sophomore AJ Riggs take his game to the next level. Fazio said that at the beginning of the year the transition from junior varsity to varsity was hard for Riggs, but with Crandall’s help and leadership he has settled down as the season has progressed.
“AJ can shoot the ball. At the beginning of the season his percentage was down a little bit,” Fazio said. “Being able to play
Highland basketball coach Todd Fazio, in just his second season, has seen an overhaul from last year’s senior-heavy class to a younger group. Despite that, the Hawks are in the midst of a breakout season.
to the expectations of what we expect him to do defensively and not take plays off and be able to come back on offense and shoot. Now he’s kind of getting used to the flow of the game, the speed of the game and its shown in his performance the last few weeks.”
Lastly, one of these bench players that is not only capable, but willing to step up at any time is junior Jake Stitcher. Stitcher, or ‘Stitch,’ is the glue to the team ac-
cording to Fazio.
“Stitch is really the heart and soul of our team. Everyday he’s bringing the juice,” Fazio said. We rely on him a lot defensively and also to bring us energy. There’s been games where he hasn’t played and then like our last game, we couldn’t take him off the floor. He takes advantage of the time that he’s put in there and when he doesn’t play as much as he’d like, you can’t see it reflect in his attitude. We’re lucky that he’s on our team.”
With only five games left in the regular season, the Hawks have put themselves in great position to receive one of the higher seeds in the tournament, but Fazio is not thinking about that quite just yet. He considers the 6A Central Region to be the best region in all of Arizona basketball and is concerned with finishing region play on a strong note.
“Our schedule is brutal,” Fazio said. “We have the toughest schedule in 6A right now. We know we have to come with it every night.”
“We like where we’re at right now, but we have a long way to go.”
(Photo courtesy Donna Mundy)
Gilbert’s Team Ace flag football team wins national title
BY ZACH ALVIRA GSN Sports Editor
Alocal flag football club represented Arizona on the biggest stage, winning a national title in one age group and placing second in another.
Team Ace, a flag football club based out of Gilbert, was crowned the 10U national champions at the National Flag Football Championships in Tampa, Fla. Jan. 20. Team Ace’s 9U team also took part in the tournament, placing second overall.
“The teams there really didn’t have an answer for us,” said Ryan Johnson, the head coach of Team Ace. “It’s pretty amazing. I’ve won local tournaments before but never at a national level.”
More than 250 youth flag football teams from all across the United States, Canada and Mexico competed in the tournament, which took place at the Tournament Sportsplex of Tampa Bay over the course of three days. The Unit was joined by several other teams from Arizona, including the Chandler Raiders, Cave Creek Elite, the AZ Ballhawks and Team Impact, both from
Phoenix.
Team Ace’s 10U team faced little adversity during the tournament. They ran through the competition in the first few rounds but were challenged in the championship.
They held a 12-0 lead early in the championship game against a team from Michigan. But Johnson believes his team may
have taken that lead for granted, as the other team took a 13-12 lead just before the half.
“It was the fifth game of the day and it was our second day of playing, so the boys were tired,” Johnson said. “Even when we were down, we felt like we were in control. They only had the lead for a minute before we scored.”
The 10U team intercepted a pass and nearly scored again to extend its lead, but Johnson called them off. Team Ace won the championship 18-13.
Team Ace’s 9U team had similar success through the early round of the tournament. But when they faced a tough team
ALA-Gilbert’s junior high wrestling team wins state
BY ZACH ALVIRA GSN Sports Editor
American Leadership Academy –
Gilbert’s junior high wrestling took home hardware on Saturday, Jan. 25, as the Eagles won the Canyon Athletic Association state title.
“I’m super proud of our kids,” said Tommy James, who coaches both the junior high and high school wrestling teams at ALA – Gilbert. “They were relentless through the whole process. We had a bulls-eye on our back because we won it last year.”
ALA competed with 14 other teams for the state championship, other American Leadership Academy campuses Ironwood and Queen Creek, where the tournament took place.
There were 30 wrestlers in total representing the Eagles, nine of them girls who competed against boys during the state tournament.
“It’s been amazing. Girls’ sports are on the cusp of breaking out right now,” James
said. “Our boys treat the girls the same way in the room and they all work hard every day. Most of our girls haven’t lost this whole year.”
ALA was led by Jake Wood this season, who went undefeated throughout the season, and Jax Joe, who domi-
nated at state. On the girls’ side, Arianna Anderson also went undefeated to lead the Eagles.
It’s the second straight state title for ALA – Gilbert’s junior high wrestling team in its short history. The success of the junior high team has also helped the Eagles at the high school level as kids move on to higher grades.
Competing in Division III this season for the Arizona Interscholastic Association, the ALA-Gilbert high school wrestling team is 18-2 this season and is among the favorites to win the title this season.
James said the win gave his team confidence in their ability to compete with any team in the state. But he admits achieving that level of success would have been difficult had it not been for the wrestlers starting in the school’s junior high program.
“The more state championships we win at the junior high level it means the better we will be at the high school level,” James said. “We want to be a top program in the state and we are doing it the right way by starting off young with our kids.”
Team Ace’s 9U team fell just short at the National Flag Football Championships, finishing second overall in their bracket. (Photo courtesy Ryan Johnson)
Team Ace’s 10U team was crowned claimed the title during the National Flag Football Championships in Tampa, Fla. on Jan. 17-20. (Photo courtesy Ryan Johnson)
American Leadership Academy – Gilbert’s junior high wrestling team won its first state title on Saturday, Jan. 25 at the state tournament. (Photo courtesy Tommy James)
from Youngstown, Ohio in the championship, they were unable to come away with the title.
Overall, the two teams combined to outscore opponents 347-93 throughout the tournament. Both teams combined for one loss – the 9U championship game – despite having a feeling of being overlooked when the tournament began.
While Johnson would have enjoyed flying home with two national titles, he remains proud of the way both teams competed on a large stage. For most of the players, that was the first time competing at that level.
Johnson is just glad the high price to attend the tournament paid off for everyone involved.
“It can be stressful, talking these parents into going and spending a lot of money,” Johnson said. “I’m just really proud of the work the boys put in. They never miss practice and they get excited to get an extra practice during the week. They live for this stuff.
“To give them that opportunity was pretty cool.”
to step in and fill a spot... you need to be ready to do that,” defender Kayla Campbell said.
The Puma’s haven’t started the same starting line-up more than twice all season which is a testament to their focus on winning and unselfishness.
Each girl knows their spot isn’t guaranteed in the rotation, so if they want to keep it, they not only have to be ready to play and play well but be able to do it within the team’s system.
“Just because you might not start, you’re as good as the person starting in front of you,” Roberts said.
Roberts hopes to have all his starters fully healthy for the playoffs, so they can be at full throttle. If not, he thinks his team will be ready for any challenge after enduring the devastating end-of-season losses the last two years.
He sees the losses as blessings in disguise if you internalize it correctly.
“Losing always puts things into perspective,” Roberts said. “It makes you reflect on the things you did well on and
the things you need to improve on.”
For the girls on the team who don’t have playoff perspective, they will be looking to the seasoned vets who have the experience and leadership to lean on.
“I think the people who might not have been there don’t understand the speed and intensity it takes,” said Brenna Alderson, a midfielder. “But with everyone else who has been there, it really helps to be around them and play with each other.”
The Pumas will definitely bring the playoff intensity as they believe there is a target on their backs as the runner-up in the last two state titles.
The word that coach John Roberts kept using as they get ready for the playoffs is perseverance. Continue to persevere through the injuries and don’t get bored with success.
Roberts and the rest of the Puma’s are ready to take the trophy home after getting their fingertips on it the last two years.
“Hopefully we’ll get there a third time and third time’s the charm,” Roberts said.
than $10,000 incredit card or other debt, see how National Debt Relief
Unique skills on display at Renaissance Festival
BY CONNOR DZIAWURA GetOut Staff Writer
Renaissance fairs around the nation are breeding grounds for people with interesting talents. From unique skills to thrilling performances, these popular events tap the best they can find in medieval entertainment.
The Arizona Renaissance Festival –open Saturdays and Sundays from Feb. 8 to March 29, as well as on Presidents Day, Feb. 17.
On this year’s docket are Adam “Crack” Winrich, who developed a skill working with flaming whips; The Angels, who fuse their vocal talents with the thrill of sword-fighting, all put through a comedic lens; Cirque du Sewer, the acrobat with rats and cats; The Danseries, a historical dance crew; and The Jousters.
Quick thinking has been handy to per-
former Terry Foy, better known as Zilch the Torysteller, who will return for this year’s festivities.
Known as a master of spoonerisms and storytelling, Foy has a knack for reconstructing words on the spot.
“If you’re doing a whole story like ‘Little Red Riding Hood,’ it comes out, ‘Rittle Led Hiding Rood, the gittle lirl in the ced roat, went out for a falk in the worest, met a wig wad bolf,’ and so on and so on and so on,” he explained.
The term “spoonerism,” he said, is named after 19th and 20th century Oxford don William Archibald Spooner, who was known for this “art of switching,” as Foy identifies it. Using his mastery of the skill, Foy tells other tales such as “Parunzel” and Spilliam Wakesheare’s “Jomeo & Ruliet.” He mixes in music, too, and is experienced with the mandolin. He has also played viola, violin and guitar.
“I found out when I was 12 years old I had a facility for this citching of swonsonants,” he said, adding with practice, “I’ve been able to put these stories together
see RENAISSANCE page 31
‘Ovo’ is high-wire fun for Cirque du Soleil
BY CHRISTOPHER BOAN GetOut Staff Writer
The world’s preeminent destination for jaw-dropping displays of trapeze arts and assorted flights of fancy brings a new storyboard to the Valley in February.
Cirque du Soleil, which has performed across the globe since 1984, brings “Ovo” to Phoenix for the first time, with the shows running from Feb. 20-23. Ovo, which means egg in Portuguese, revolves around an ecosystem of insects full of life and color, where specimens interact and live out their lives in a funfilled manner.
The show, which debuted in arenas in 2016, has toured all over North America, Europe and South America, with more than 6 million people taking in the show.
Ovo is a labor of love for aerialists like Beth
for three months.
Williams learned her high-wire act as a child in England, where she enrolled in
various ballet classes and schools.
Her career progressed from there, auditioning for full-time dance school, before deciding a change was necessary. Williams decided to take trapeze classes at a circus school in London, training all day, every day.
The hardcore training landed Williams a gig with Cirque du Soleil out of school. Williams calls touring with Cirque du Soleil a dream come true, as she’s able to do a host of physically demanding and awe-inspiring feats.
So far, Williams traveled to 19 cities across 15 states on the round with “Ovo.” It’s a demanding task, but one she’s thrilled to undertake.
Such an extensive touring routine would be draining for the artists mak-
A festivalgoer favorite, Lord Robert Chessman, the queen’s royal falconer, returns to the Renaissance Faire this year. (Special to GetOut)
Williams, who has been on tour with the cast and crew of the exhibition
Cirque du Soleil will be bringing a new storyline and its stunning acrobatics and customes to the Valley later this month. (Special to GetOut)
Queen Nation pays tribute to rock legend
BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI GetOut Editor
Mike McManus remembers the night that changed his life. He was 15 and saw Brian May playing guitar for Queen in 1980.
“I saw ‘The Game Tour’ when I was growing up in Boston,” said McManus, who also attended a concert in 1982.
“I was with my dad and it changed my life. I looked at Brian May walking to the front of the stage doing a guitar solo, and all the light and smoke hit him. I thought, ‘Oh yeah, I want to do that.’ My dad looked over at me and the thought of me going to law school or medical school went right out the door.”
McManus now plays the May part in Queen Nation, a tribute to the legendary English band. The group comes to Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino at 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8. He has fond memories of playing in Arizona.
that are pretty intricate. He would dread them coming up.
“But it’s also the most fun to play. We let the audience sing the operatic part— whether or not they’re in key, as long as they sing from their hearts.”
McManus said his 15-year-old self would be thrilled at his career choice.
“I know now I would have been pretty psyched,” he said. “We’ve been doing this now for 15 years. We’ve met the nicest people you could ever imagine. It’s bittersweet, though. We go to places like Ohio, Wisconsin and Canada and we meet some of the nicest people you’d ever want to meet, but there’s a good chance we’ll never see them again.”
IF YOU GO
What: Queen Nation
“We have been coming there for 10 years,” he said. “It started 10 years ago when Terry and Ann Davies owned Sky in Peoria. Since then, we’ve come to Casino Arizona and Talking Stick and, in fact, we were the very, very first band to play on the outside pool at Talking Stick.”
RENAISSANCE from page 30
and use my rather odd sense of humor to present a comedy routine.”
He credits elementary English for teaching him about spoonerisms, malapropisms and pig Latin, as does he his dad, who loved comedian Archie Campbell on “Hee Haw.” Campbell has done spoonerisms.
“I’m not the first; I won’t be the last to do this kind of thing,” Foy said. “I happen to be pretty good at it.”
Modeled as a 30-acre, 16th-century European village, the Arizona Renaissance Festival has 14 stages boasting talented acts like Foy.
Medieval enthusiasts can wander the festival grounds and check out all sorts of other performances, activities and arts and crafts, maybe even picking up a turkey leg along the way.
As is tradition, the king and queen will be paramount to the yearly festivities. Robby Sinkler knows this all too well, as he serves as Lord Robert Chessman, the
Queen Nation shows, McManus said, take fans back to 1980, when Queen was
queen’s royal falconer.
Festivalgoers can check out his Art of Falconry show. In this show, which he calls a “family affair,” he is aided by his wife, his daughter and local volunteers.
Together, they work with a variety of birds of prey – from eagles to owls, vultures and falcons – showing their natural behaviors while explaining the medieval history of falconry.
This includes flying over the audience, or even just groundwork. In one display, Sinkler has a vulture trained to spot a particular egg based on its color; in another, he demonstrates an eagle’s speed with an amphitheater fly-by.
“We don’t have them ride a bicycle or anything like that like you might see in a parrot show,” he said with a laugh. “It’s really a close encounter of animals you usually see at a distance.”
Sinkler heads up Wild Sky Productions, through which he acquires birds from zoos, rehabilitation centers and captive-breeding projects. He said his organization is a last resort for nonreleasable
at the height of its popularity I America.
“That’s what we emulate,” he said. “‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ is the most challenging song, but I’ve read articles with Brian May and after even years and years of playing it, there are still parts of the song
birds.
“They may have handicaps or mental disabilities,” he admits. “Depending on the year, there’s a lot of different types of birds we might work with.”
The Florida native and 30-plus-year falconer remembers gaining an appreciation for animals from his father at a young age, before doing zoo work in college. There he learned about falconry and birds of prey. He first signed on to a Renaissance festival gig around 25 years ago, at the Georgia one.
Wild Sky has also worked with theme parks and other attractions, with wildlife celebrities like Jack Hanna and Jim Fallor, and on music videos and movies.
“It’s such a unique opportunity,” Sinkler said. “For me, it’s (the appeal) bringing the wilderness to a unique type of venue where we get up-close and meet a lot of people. We actually, at the end of every show, have a meet-and-greet and we take pictures with the guests, and it’s an opportunity to hear stories.”
Just as he loves sharing his knowl-
Where: Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8
Tickets: $20
Info: 800-946-4452, playagila.com
edge with audiences—he tries to make it a “positive experience” and even talks about conservation—he loves hearing from audience members about their own experiences with birds and other wildlife.
“I think it’s (the appeal) about meeting the guests and really making the connection so they have a greater appreciation of the wildlife,” he said.
For Foy, who is also a teacher, Renaissance festival work is a lifestyle. He said he has been performing in Arizona since 1989, but he got his start with the Minnesota Renaissance Festival in 1975.
“Like many kids who were interested in theater when in high school, my friends and I heard an audition notice on a radio station and went, ‘Renaissance Festival? Hey, we’ve been there! Let’s try it!’” he recalls. “There were three of us who went to go audition together, and one fellow saw what the audition entailed and went, ‘Nope, I’m out of here,’ and the other two
Expect this Queen cover band to play all your favorite hits by the legendary Britsh rock group. when it appears at Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino next weekend. (Special to GetOut)
of us auditioned and got hired.” He eventually branched out beyond his initial one in Minnesota, and he’s a busy man for it. He expects to visit states like Texas, Colorado, South Dakota, Minnesota and North Carolina by next Thanksgiving.
While he can’t speak as to why festival-
goers are drawn to his performances— aside from those who have told him they feel smarter after checking out a show— he said his own personal appeal is entertaining others.
“I have always been a laugh junkie,” he said. “To get people laughing has always been sort of my reason for living. It’s what makes life worth living.”
IF YOU GO
What: Arizona Renaissance Festival & Artisan Marketplace
Where: Renaissance Festival Grounds, 12601 E. U.S. Highway 60, Gold Canyon.
When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and Presidents Day, Feb. 8 to March 29
Cost: $15-$28 at the box office, with discounts online and at Fry’s.
Info: 520-483-2600, renfestinfo.com CIRQUE from page 30
ing the show possible, if it were not for a series of breaks allowing performers to catch their breath.
Williams said the demands of touring are real, but it’s a reality staff is willing to accept.
“It’s absolutely amazing. We usually have one or two days off, so, we try to get around the cities or the towns we’re in and get a feel for things, then after we go into shows,” Williams said. “So, we do get a chance to look around a little bit as well, which is great.”
“Ovo” might be Cirque du Soleil’s most daring performance to date, with 52 performing artists from 14 countries undertaking a litany of acrobatics.
The show features more than 10 types of high-level acrobatic acts, including mainstays like foot juggling and Icarian games, as well as hand balancing, contortion, aerial straps, slack wire and Russian cradle, to name a few.
The performance is the brainchild of artistic guides Guy Laliberté and Gilles SteCroix, who dreamed up a world where insects can be the central characters of a universe, instead of the pests they’re often made out to be in other shows.
“Ovo” includes subversive elements, such as a moment where an awkward and gangly insect enters the ecosystem, only to have a meeting with a sumptuous ladybug, among other encounters highlighted in the performance.
Williams believes “Ovo” is the perfect
show for parents and children, as it features a one-of-a-kind mix of acrobatics and life lessons sure to amaze.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity because it’s such a unique show and it’s such a spectacular night full of acrobatics, aerials, amazing music, colorful costumes,” Williams said. “And it’s a really fun show to bring all the family, and to bring a child to as well.”
Williams said each night of the Phoenix show will feature unique elements, to keep the performances fresh for performers and viewers.
She believes the current iteration of “Ovo” is the most polished version, with each night bringing greater energy and creativity.
“Over time, we do try to make it better.
So, we’ll be performing the same thing on stage, but backstage, we’re trying new things,” Williams said. “We’re trying to make things more difficult or crazier.”
The evolution keeps Williams enthralled, as the tour grinds along, with the wonder of trapeze arts and the pulse-pounding allure of high-wire acts keeping her on her toes each night.
IF YOU GO
What: Cirque du Soleil’s “Ovo”
Where: Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix
When: various times Fev. 20-23
Tickets: Start at $45 with family packs available.
Info: 602-379-2000, cirquedusoleil.com
Classical Education. Revolutionary Schools.
Former Williams Air Force Base Restoration Advisory Board (RAB) Adjournment
The Air Force has adjourned the Williams Restoration Advisory Board (RAB). The Department of Defense (DoD) established RABs in 1994 to provide a forum for community involvement in the environmental restoration process at an active or former military installation. The Williams RAB was comprised of volunteer community members, as well as federal, state and local representatives, and held public meetings routinely since 1994.
The decision to adjourn the RAB was made in accordance with the DoD RAB Rule (32 CFR Part 202). All major cleanup decisions have been made and remedies are in place. The majority of the base property has been transferred to the local community for redevelopment under the Base Realignment and Closure Act. The Air Force held a 30-day public comment period on the proposed adjournment from November 18 to December 18, 2018 to solicit comments on the proposed adjournment. Community input was considered in the decision to adjourn the Williams RAB. Information on environmental restoration efforts will continue to be available to the public as necessary through news releases, public notices and public briefings, and online at: https://www.afcec.af.mil/Home/BRAC/Williams.aspx
For more information, contact: Dante Gulle at (916) 643-6420 x257or by e-mail at: afrpa.west.pa@us.af.mil
Air Force Civil Engineering Center
Western Region Execution Center 3237 Peackeeper Way, Suite 205 McClellan, California 95652-2615
Former Williams Air Force Base
YDWith JAN D’ATRI
With JAN D’ATRI
GetOut Contributor
GetOut Contributor
With JAN D’ATRI
GetOut Contributor
Beef stew a perfect antidote for chilly days
Bu alo Cheddar Chile Dip takes you deep into deliciousness
The big game may take a back seat to this treat
Jou love jalapeno poppers. You love great Mexican dips. Now you can have them both with this cheesy, slightly spicy dish that gives you no choice but to dive in and indulge.
o you love a great steak? A juicy piece of chicken? Savory seafood? How about adding a ton of flavor to a baked potato or a slice of grilled French bread?
WI’ve got the flavor bomb you need for all of these dishes and so much more.
ulia Child made it fancy with her iconic boeuf bourguignon. But you don’t have to get fancy to make a delicious, satisfying good old-fashioned beef stew.
hat are you hoping the spread will be for Big Game?
The Bu alo Cheddar Chile Dip is so simple to whip up, bake up and gobble up for those game day watch parties or for any get-together.
No, I don’t mean the point spread, I mean the snack table spread! Anything and everything deep-fried, grilled, buttered, battered and baked, I’m assuming.
It’s called compound butter and it just elevates the flavor of so many foods in a very simple way. Compound butter is a real restaurant secret. It’s used a lot in high-end steak houses and many other establishments, and now you have the recipes to make your own right at home.
With half a dozen vegetables, some good stew meat, a packet of dry soup mix and a few seasonings, you can’t help but have one heck of a hearty meal.
It’s also one of those recipes that you can adapt, adjust and add to for more kick.
This dip combines crispy bacon bits, shredded grilled or rotisserie chicken and several kinds of cheese.
While we’re considering the menu of all the things we want to dip and dive into, here’s a very simple Pepperoni Party Bread that is a real “slice ‘n diver.”
Compound butter is simply unsalted butter, extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs and spices mixed together and refrigerated.
You can make one basic all-purpose compound or create several compounds with ingredients that en-
With our chilly winter evenings, beef stew is the perfect tummy-warming comfort food and it’s about the easiest dish you can cook up. There are a few tips for making this recipe fantastic.
When creating this recipe, I came across Alouette Spicy Jalapeno Spread in the deli section of the grocery store and decided to add it to the shredded cheddar and jack cheeses as well as the cream cheese.
For chicken, potatoes and bread
2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter
You slice it up and plunge it right into your favorite red sauce. It all starts with refrigerated bread dough; either pizza or French bread dough. It’s loaded up with thin slices of pepperoni, some tasty shredded cheese like gruyere, mozzarella or a combination of both. For this recipe, you want the cheese to pull
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
hance certain foods. For my compounds I use unsalted butter so I can control the salt content, and besides, in my opinion, unsalted butter just tastes better. Then you will add chopped fresh herbs, some spices and salt and pepper. I love the idea of compound butters because once you make them, you just roll the butter combination into logs on parchment paper, keep them in your refrigerator and use them any time you want. Flavor bombs, for an explosion of flavor.
It can also be served with cr0stini, crackers or cut vegetables.
instant pot or Dutch oven.
First, grab a good stew meat. I prefer chuck roast because it has a bit of fat which adds a lot of flavor. I have tried sirloin or other higher-end cuts, but the chuck roast seems to o er the most flavor.
It’s optional, but it does add a spicy yet creamy texture. If you want the dip to have more heat, just add more diced jalapeños or green chiles. Love bacon? Just add more.
1 tablespoon sage, chopped
This Bu alo Cheddar Chile Dip is worth the deep dive into deliciousness.
After the stew is done, taste it, and if it needs a bit more flavor, just add a little beef bouillon. If you haven’t had beef stew in a while, make this recipe and you’ll be reminded of why it will always be one of America’s favorite family dishes.
For potatoes
2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons virgin olive oil
Once you cut it in cubes, dredge the meat in flour and brown in a skillet before adding to the crockpot,
I baked this dip in a cast-iron skillet and served it
2 tablespoons chives, chopped
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon fresh dill
1 package frozen or refrigerated bread or pizza
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon rosemary
dough
Ingredients:
10 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped fine
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon pepper
2-3 chicken thighs or breasts, grilled and shredded
and stretch when you slice and lift it out, and both gruyere and mozzarella are great “pulling” cheeses! Some sliced pepperoncini and some seasonings for added flavor and you’ll have
2 tablespoons fresh chives (chopped)
1 tablespoon thyme (chopped)
1 tablespoon sage (chopped)
1 tablespoon rosemary (chopped)
1 tablespoon parsley
1 teaspoon salt
er pepperoni slices across the dough. Sprinkle shredded cheese over pepperoni slices. Drain pepperoncini slices and sprinkle over cheese. Carefully roll the dough up lengthwise. Place the dough in the pan or pie plate coiling it into a doughnut shape.
1 teaspoon pepper
2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh dill
2 tablespoons dried or fresh herbs (garlic salt, Italian seasonings, red pepper flakes, parsley, etc.)
2 cups baby carrots or regular carrots, cut in 2-inch lengths
Directions
2 tablespoons Italian Parsley
1 egg plus 1 tablespoon water
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme
2 tablespoons capers, chopped
1 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley
1 ½ cups corn, fresh, frozen or canned
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon salt
Marinara or pizza sauce, for dipping
1 ½ cup green beans, fresh, frozen or canned
1 teaspoon pepper
1 ½ cups peas, frozen or canned
Directions
1 teaspoon pepper
Preheat oven to 350º. Cook bacon crisp. When cooled, chop bacon. Grill chicken and then shred. (If desired, shred a store-bought rotisserie chicken.)
Zest of 1 lemon
1 packet French’s Onion Soup Dry Mix
Directions:
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a spring form pan, pie plate or round baking dish with cooking spray.
In a mixing bowl, add 2 sticks of softened, unsalted butter. Select the herbs for your compound and chop fine.
Heat the oil in a skillet. When hot, dredge the stew pieces in flour and then place in hot skillet. Brown stew meat on all sides, leaving a little space in between pieces to ensure proper browning.
In a large bowl, stir together cream cheese, mayo, sour cream, cheese spread, cheddar and jack cheeses, jalapenos, green chiles, bacon, chicken, garlic powder, salt and pepper. (Reserve some
On a lightly floured surface, roll out bread dough with rolling pin into a large, thin rectangle. Combine the olive oil and melted butter. Brush mixture over the dough.
Pinch the ends together to secure the dough. With a fork, mix the egg yolk and water, and brush egg wash over top of dough. Sprinkle with remaining tablespoon of seasonings. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until bread is golden brown. Remove from pan. Place on a plate and slice. If you used a Bundt pan with a hole in the middle, place a small bowl of marinara sauce in the hole. Dip slices of pepperoni bread into the sauce and enjoy!
4 cups water
shredded cheese, bacon and jalapeno for topping.)
Optional: beef bouillon for added flavor (I prefer Superior Touch Better Than Bouillon Beef Base)
Serve hot.
Transfer to an 8-inch oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup each of cheddar and Monterey Jack, cooked bacon, and jalapeño.
How to make Homemade Flour or Corn Tortilla Chips
Place stew meat in a crockpot, instant pot or Dutch oven.
Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of seasonings. Lay-
Mix until well combined. Spoon mixture onto a piece of parchment paper and shape into a log with your spoon. Roll the log up in the parchment paper and twist the ends to secure the paper.
Add the onion, potatoes, corn, green beans, peas, soup mix, thyme, salt pepper and water. For the
Refrigerate or freeze to harden. When hardened, unwrapped the compound log from the parchment paper and slice o dollar-size discs and add to your foods.
Bake until dip is golden and bubbly, about 25 minutes. Serve with tortilla chips.
For larger party bread, dough the amount of ingredients except for the seasonings. You will only need 2 tablespoons of seasonings for the larger party bread.
crockpot, cook for about 6 hours on high. For Dutch oven, cook over medium heat for 2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally so the bottom doesn’t burn. For instant pot, refer to instructions. (Meat should be very tender.) When beef stew is done, taste for flavor. If the stew needs more beef flavor, add 2 teaspoons or a tablespoon of Superior Touch
For the bread, combine two packages of refrigerated bread dough and spread out into one larger rectangle.
Roll the compound log back up in the parchment paper and refrigerate. (I roll the logs in the paper, and then place in a zip lock bag to keep it fresh longer.)
Better Than bouillon beef base, found at most grocery stores. You can also use beef bouillon cubes)
Stack several tortillas on top of each other and cut into triangles. Repeat until all tortillas are used up. Heat vegetable oil to about 350 degrees. Carefully drop the triangles into the oil and fry for a few seconds. With tongs, turn the triangles over and fry until golden brown. Transfer the chips to a paper towel and sprinkle with salt. Serve with Bu alo Cheddar Chile Dip.
For more great recipe ideas and videos, visit jandatri.com.
Watch my how-to video: jandatri.com/jans-recipe/one-minute-kitchen
more great recipe ideas and videos, visit jandatri.com.
right from the pan with lots of corn tortilla chips and some homemade flour tortilla chips.
James H. ("Jim") Freer
With heavy hearts the family announces the passing of Jim. Jim accepted the terminal nature of the Parkinson's diagnosis with grace, courage and fortitude. Unfortunately, after a long and brave battle Jim passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 8, 2020 at his daughter's home in Seattle with her by his side.
Jim was born to John and Harriet Freer on April 7, 1932 in Graceville, MN. After graduating high school Jim made his way west to Washington State University in Pullman, WA and became a life-long Cougar. Jim graduated 1955. While in Pullman Jim met and married his first wife, Kathryn E. Womeldorf. Jim and Kay had four children, David James, John Steven, Janice Kay and Robert Howard. Jim served in the Air Force as a commercial pilot and retired the rank of Major in 1975. Jim's p rofessional career then took him to the USPS as a mail carrier at the Manito and Garland Station in Spokane, Washington and again retired in 1993.
Jim was a cherished life partner, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Jim is survived by his life partner; Delia Smith and her daughter Rebecca; his four children, David (Tracy), John (Tamara), Janice and Robert (Katy); four grandchildren, Chad, Matthew, Larissa (Lonnie Newton), and Cody; great grandchild Kinley Newton; and brother Robert. Jim is also survived by sister-in-law's family Quetta Collin, Greg (Esther), David, Marklyn, Caleb and Casey Hallett and Carol (Tony Cabera), as well as numerous uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces and cousins.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents, John and Harriet Freer; sis ter and brother-in-law, Barbara (Doug Smith); his first wife Kathryn E. Womeldorf Sanders and his life saving four legged companion, Shasta Pup.
Passionate as Jim was about his professional life, his greatest loves were his life partner, Delia, family and becoming a snowbird! Jim's fondest and happiest memories were those spent with family and friends, especially those junking and garage selling with Del; fishing and huckleberry picking with his sons and competing in international, national and state shuffleboard tournaments with his daughter.
Throughout his life in his own quiet way, Jim was a very strong, warm, kind, caring, funny, generous and loving man who believed strongly in giving to others and the communities he loved. Jim enjoyed the life-long friendships and camaraderie of his many friends in Washington and Arizona and the opportunities to share his many talents by mentoring and teaching in some of his favorite activities such as Spanish, shuffleboard, cribbage, pool, Sudoku and woodworking. Jim followed his beloved WSU Cougars, Gonzaga basketball and the Seattle Seahawks. Jim also gave generously to Wounded Warriors, USO, as well as being a staunch blood donor for decade s.
Jim lived a rich and full life. Jim was a man whose mind and hands had to be busy all day long and there was never enough time to do everything! Jim's passions were riding his bike, even in the snow to go to work, shuffleboard, woodworking, crossword puzzles, Sudoku, cribbage, bridge, pool, gardening, canning chairs, planting succulents in shoes and donating them to the local community center, making wind chimes, collecting matchbooks, Pub jugs, German beer and wine glasses, German Volksmarches and last but not least his 1967 Impala, 1968 Caprice and Shasta Pup.
Jim was one of a kind and will be remembered for his honesty, conscientious work ethic, sense of humor, being soft spoken, a gentle soul, a man of few words yet a very big and warm heart. Jim was intelligent, a gentleman genuinely and dearly loved by his family and friends and leaves a huge void in the lives of all he touched. Jim will be missed by all those whom he loved and loved him. Jim will be forever in our hearts and his spirit lives on in all those who were blessed to know him.
Jim asks you spend time with loved ones, ride a bike, plant a garden, make a toast to enduring life-long and beyond friendships with your favorite drink complete with ice cube or two!! Jim will be forever pleased.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to Kline Galland Home for their loving and compassionate care to our father and sister during his final days. Also, appreciation and thank you to Visiting Angels caregivers and staff at American Lake VA for their care of Jim.
A Memorial Service / Celebration of Life honoring Jim's amazing full life and love of family and friends is planned later in the year in the fall / winter in Arizona.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks you please consider a donation in honor of Jim's memory to the NW Parkinson's Foundation (NWPF.org), Wounded Warriors, USO or a charity of your choosing. Family and friends may leave remembrances by signing Jim's online guest book at cascadememorial.com. Condolences may also be sent to 18925 37th Ave. S., Seattle, Washington 98188.
Seniors Welcome - Join Our Family! Healthy Habits is a leader in the supplement industry with a proud history that spans 40+ years. Based in vibrant Tempe, we’re looking to add a couple of family members to our customer support team in either a full-time or part-time capacity. The environment is casual, low stress & friendly. Generally; you’ll be taking customer orders & providing customer support. No outbound sales calling is required, & our customers relationships are the best in the business because we’re fair, honest & friendly.
If you’d like to learn more about this position, please visit website at: www.HealthyHabits.com/jobs/
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To Set Up Interview Call, National Trainer, Steve Bloechel 480-298-3688!
Employment
General
Now hiring janitors for office cleaning in various valley locations. Please apply in person at ACE Building Maintenance 7020 N 55th Ave Glendale, AZ 85301. Se solita personal para limpieza de Oficina en varias localidades del valle. Favor de aplicar en persona a ACE Building Maintenance 7020 N 55th Ave Glendale, AZ 85301.
TechMileage has openings for the following positions in Scottsdale, AZ area.
Software Engineers reqs US Masters degree/foreign equiv or Bach degree + 5 yrs experience w/ skills in Java/Jscript/SOAP/CSS/ Clear Case to dsgn/dev/implement/test apps/systems. Sr. Programmer Analyst reqs US Bachelors/equiv (3 or 4 yr degree) in Commerce/BusAdm/STEM field to analyze/resolve/test/report on IT related projects using skills in EMC/MS/SQL/Excel/ Java/C. Email resume to careers@techmileage.co m with ref # 2020-19 for Software Eng; 2020-20 for Sr. Prog Analyst & ref EVT ad.
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CARE AND PROTECTION, TERMINATION OF PARE NTAL RIGHTS, SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION , DOCKET NUMBER 19CP0008HO, Trial Court of Mass achusetts, Juvenile Court Department, COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS, Hampden County Juvenile Court, Holyoke Division, 121 Elm St., Holyoke, MA 01040 TO: Jesus Gonzalez or the father of Joilyn Aida Gonzalez born on 11/15/2011 to April Danielle Richard in Northampton, MA: A petition has bee n presented to this court by DCF Holyoke, seeking as to the following child: Joilyn Gonzalez, that said child be found in need of care and protection and committed to the Department of Children and Families. The court may dispense the rights of the person(s) named herein to receive notice of or to consent to any legal proceeding affecting the adoption, custody, or guardianship or any other disposition of the child named herein, if it finds that the child is in need of care and protectio n and that the best interests of the child would be served by said disposition.
You are hereby ORDERED to appear in this court, at the court address set forth above, on the following date and time: 02/24/2020 at 9:00 AM Other Hearing. You may bring an attorney with you. If you have a right to an attorney and if the court determines that you are indigent, the court will appoint an attorney to represent you.
If you fail to appear, the court may proceed on that date and any date thereafter with a trial on the merits of the petition and an adjudication of this matter.
For further information call the Office of the Clerk-Magistrate at 413-322-6700
WITNESS: Hon. Lois M. Eaton, FIRST JUSTICE , DATE ISSUED: 01/14/2020, Donald P. Whitney, ClerkMagistrate
Published: East Valley Tribune, Jan, 26, Feb 2, 9, 2020 / 27628
The Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona (WIFA) has received a request for financial assistance from the Town of Queen Creek to refinance the acquisition of Groundwater Extinguishment Credits to address a current water resource deficit.
WIFA staff analysis concluded that this project qualifies for a CATEGORICAL E XCLUSION. The proposed project will not impact the environment either by itself or in combination with other projects, and the environmental information provided has met statutory intent of the WIFA’s environmental review requirements.
DW-012-2020 – Groundwater Extinguishment Credit Acquisition, 22350 S. Ellsworth Rd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142-9311
Documentation regarding the proposed project is available for review at WIFA, 100 N. 7th Avenue, Suite 130, Phoenix, Arizona 85007.
WIFA complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Alternative formats for the project documentation are available upon request. Please contact Samantha Lemke, Environmental Program Specialist, (602) 364-1326 for any requests or inquiries.
Published: East Valley Tribune, Feb 2, 2020 / 278xx
