Gilbert Sun News 0403 by Times Media Group

Scooters in bike lanes?

ALA Eagles look strong

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An edition of the East Valley Tribune

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This Week

NEWS................................ Legendary EV raceway shutting down.

n a tough job market, the Town of Gilbert is looking at strategies to attract and retain employees and has decided one immediate step to do that is by giving all workers across the board a 5%-inflationary pay hike, effective this month. Council on March 29 voted 5-2 to approve the raises, which will cost the Town $1.4 million for the remaining six pay periods of this

fiscal year and $6.2 million for a full year, according to Budget Director Kelly Pfost. With roughly 1,600 employees, officials budgeted $124 million for salaries and overtime this fiscal year, Pfost said. “Our employees are everything,” Mayor Brigette Peterson said. “Our employees are the key to this community getting everything done that we get done on a daily basis.” Peterson said some employees are living in San Tan Valley because housing is a bit cheaper and the commute with gas at $5 a

Unlike neighbors, HD South gets 9 little town support

BUSINESS.................25 Gilbert shop houses many businesses.

COMMUNITY.......................................20 BUSINESS............................................. 25 OPINION................................................ 27 SPORTS..................................................28 GETOUT................................................ 30 CLASSIFIEDS.......................................33

Sunday, April 3, 2022

Gilbert employees getting 5% pay raises BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

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gallon is making a big dent in their budgets. “We have people who have just started with the town that are on the lower level for their pay scale and they’re going to be hit harder than some of the people who have been here for quite some time,” Peterson said. “If this is one way we can show our employees what they mean to us and how we appreciate everything that they do on a daily

see RAISES page 6

Tradition made new

BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

109-year-old downtown building that once housed Gilbert Elementary School now offers the Town’s history, exhibits and community programming. “We are the only museum in Gilbert, the oldest building standing in Gilbert and on the National Register of Historic Places,” said Denise Lopez, president and CEO of HD SOUTH. “We are the center for arts, culture and history in Gilbert.” For all it does, the nonprofit received $51,050 for the current fiscal year from the Town, which paled in comparison with how neighboring municipalities fund their arts and culture, according to an internal Town report. The report looked at the financial support for fiscal year 202021. The Mesa Arts and Culture Department had a $10.8

see MUSEUM page 3

Many of the 425 cast members in the Mesa Arizona Temple’s Easter Pageant gathered last Thursday evening, awaiting their turn to take the stage for a media night rehearsal for the show, which begins a two-weekend run next Wednesday. A Gilbert man played a key role in updating the 84-year-old pageant. For the story, see page 9. (David Minton/GSN Staff Photographer)

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

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NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

MUSEUM from page 1 An edition of the East Valley Tribune Gilbert Sun News is published every Sunday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout Gilbert.

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million budget to manage the Mesa Arts Center, the i.d.e.a. Museum and the Arizona Museum of Natural History. Comparably sized Chandler gave its Cultural Development Department $680,337 for the Chandler Museum and $1.95 million for its Center for the Arts. Overall, the city that fiscal year allocated $4.6 million for cultural development, according to the report. In Tempe, the History Museum and store received $325,922 in general fund support. The city, the report noted, has a robust program and spent $6.4 million altogether for arts and cultural-services programming. And, Scottsdale’s Museum of the West gets a significant amount of financial support from the city, which built the facility for $11.4 million, according to the report. Since opening in 2015, that museum has received $400,000 annually from Scottsdale’s Tourism Development Fund. In July 2021, a new five-year contract was inked that provided an additional $250,000 in management fees for the Scottsdale museum. The report also said the museum received an additional $380,628 for a new exhibit, $500,000 for educational programs and $200,000 for marketing and media over the past seven fiscal years. And in 2020,it received an $884,663 grant from Scottsdale as part of the COVID-19 relief funding. Gilbert Town spokeswoman Jennifer Harrison said the July 2021 report was given to Council to provide an overview of what’s occurring in the region with “no intended action or response was anticipated.” A second report prepared at the same time looked at the Town’s financial support of HD South from 1997 to present. HD SOUTH was originally dubbed Gilbert Historical Museum until the name was changed in 2017 to reflect its transformation into an arts and cultural center. The Gilbert Historical Society originally leased the old elementary school, which closed in 1977, from Gilbert Public Schools. The society opened the museum to the public in 1982 and three years later it was able to purchase the

This rendering shows the plan for a proposed addition to HD SOUTH. (HD SOUTH) building and land, thanks to a generous donation. The Town, which promotes HD SOUTH on its tourism website, began its financial support in fiscal year 1996-97 with $48,000. Over the years, the funding has fluctuated from as low as $1,000 a year to as high as $79,790 for fiscal year 2005-06, according to the report. The current fiscal year funding was approved by Council in March 2020, with the annual allocations ending in June 2023. In the Town’s contract with HD SOUTH, funding is being provided to help the nonprofit move toward financial self-sufficiency. According to minutes from that March meeting, then-Mayor Jenn Daniels and others on Council touted the importance of preserving the town’s rich history and noted HD SOUTH’s contributions. Besides money from the Town, HD SOUTH generates revenue from fundraising events, membership dues, its gift shop, facility rental, donations, grants and some program fees, according to Lopez. Council March 29 approved a $100,000 to HD SOUTH in a pass-through gaming grant from Gila River Indian Community. Lopez did not provide the nonprofit’s current budget. But in tax year 2019, HD South reported total revenues of $655,352 and total expenses of $272,541, according to its latest available IRS Form 990 filing. What’s anticipated to help the nonprofit toward self-sufficiency is a planned expansion and remodeling

project. HD SOUTH in 2020 announced a $2-million capital campaign that includes building a 6,000-square-foot, single-story, multi-purpose building for programs, exhibits and rental space, remodeling some existing exhibit spaces in the current museum to accommodate programs and upgrading the courtyard for outdoor entertainment, classes and rental. Lopez said HD SOUTH has raised close to $1.5 million so far. Once all the money is in hand, it is anticipated that it would take six to nine months to complete the project, she said. “With the new building it’ll give us more opportunity for facility-rental income and additional space,” Lopez said. “We’re tripping over ourselves for space. We hold a lot so with the new expansion it’ll give us the opportunity to hold more exhibits, we can hold traveling exhibits in there, something larger.” Lopez said the new building could be rented for events like week-long training sessions and trade shows. Asked why the disparity in funding of a noted cultural resource compared with its neighbors, Town Manager Patrick Banger said Gilbert continues to support the museum and its efforts and that it is “an amazing amenity.” But “the current funding structure was established to assist HD SOUTH while the nonprofit worked toward fiscal sustainability,” he said in an email. “In addition to supporting HD SOUTH,

see MUSEUM page 11

NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

Town staff likes scooters in bike lanes BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

2-year-old pilot program regulating the use of electric scooters in Gilbert is recommended to become permanent with a few proposed changes such as allowing them in bicycle lanes. Bird is currently the only operator in town with a total ride count of 21,566 in 2021. Lime pulled out in 2020. Stephanie Bubenheim, senior transportation planner, said at last week’s Council study session the town worked with companies “so we could be business friendly and also assess the safety risks at the same time while learning about the technology.” Bubenheim said staff is recommending the program become permanent because of the higher than expected increase in users, both within town and into neighboring communities. A 2019 Town survey also found that residents

Town staff recommended capping each scooter company’s presence in Gilbert to 200 devices. (File photo) wanted them. “The scooters are usually set up in core areas where they’re seeing a lot of ridership but we’re seeing rides end in neighborhoods and it’s kind of just showing us that people are using these as a mode of transportation to try and get from one point to another,” Bubenheim said.

Bubenheim said staff also was recommending that the municipal code allow riders to take the scooters onto bike lanes instead of restricting them to sidewalks only. She said the proposal would allow Gilbert to mirror what its neighbors like Scottsdale, Tempe and Chandler are doing. “We’ve been talking about this with the police department and the fire department and it’s really just to promote the consistency with the neighboring jurisdictions and also treating micro-mobility devices like bicycles,” Bubenheim said. “So, if a bicycle can ride within a certain area to treat the devices, the electric bicycles and the electric scooters and all the other devices that are starting to come out treating them as bicycles as well.” She added that staff also is looking at potentially capping each company to a maximum of 200 devices in town. Currently, there is no limit.

Bubenheim also said that staff planned to return to Council in the future with potential code changes regulating privately owned scooters because “we’re seeing a lot more privately owned devices.” Councilwoman Kathy Tilque voiced concern there could be more accidents by allowing scooters in bike lanes. Since April 2019, there have been two reported crashes involving a rented scooter and 20 involving a motorized scooter in Gilbert, according to staff. “The fact that we have such a low number and we don’t allow them within the bike lanes may be a data point we want to look at before we make our final decision,” Tilque said. She asked if staff had crash data from cities that allow scooters in bike lanes. Bubenheim said staff reached out to Mesa, Tempe and Chandler but are finding it’s been difficult to get that information.

see SCOOTERS page 11

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NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

GPS approves raises, stipends for district employees BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

ilbert Public Schools Governing Board last week approved pay increases for employees that totaled $11 million and a one-time retention stipend totaling $7.3 million for the fiscal year that begins July 1. “We have managed to provide some very nice increases for our employees and I really appreciate the hard work that’s been done on that,” Board member Jill Humpherys said. “I think all of us are very grateful that we’ve been able to make our salaries across the board more competitive for everyone.” Board President Lori Wood echoed the sentiment. “I’m really excited and grateful that we can pay our staff and teachers and our admin competitive wages.” Wood said. “That’s one of the most important things we can do with the funding that we have and show our appreciation for their hard work and loyalty and all that they’ve done these past couple years.” The board approved continuing this

RAISES from page 1

basis, I am in favor of that. I appreciate them more then they will ever know.” The pay increase is separate from annual pay-for-performance reviews for non-sworn and step adjustments for sworn employees. Councilman Scott September put the issue into context by comparing Gilbert to Mesa. He said Mesa has three times the employees, about 4,500, but is only double the size in population. “In Mesa if you lose a driver, a truck driver, maybe it’s not as big of an issue because there’re enough of them to backfill while you find a replacement and train a replacement,” September said. “In Gilbert, we just don’t have that luxury and I know for a fact we are actually light on truck drivers at the moment. “I think it speaks to our culture and how hard our employees do work. Gilbert does things differently,” he added. “We don’t run operationally heavy with

2023, projected at $283 million, which included $1 million to account for a 7% inflationary increase for things like supplies, fuel and utilities. The final budget is expected to be adopted in June. In the budget, it was anticipated an enrollment drop of 400 students, 300 for K-8 and 100 for 9-12. School districts are funded by the state on head count. The 2023 budget also included increasing staffing with the hiring of Gilbert Public Schools Governing Board members said the pay increase and stipends will instructional coaches and behavioral help the district retain teachers. (YouTube) coaches, which were added midyear 2022, and full-time staff for an accelerfiscal year’s 3% stipend for employees budget balance carry-forward, accord- ation campus at a total cost of $3 milinto the next budget year and with that ing to Bonnie Betz, assistant superin- lion. new base amount tacked on the 2%- tendent of Business Services. “This is something we’ve had in our In order to receive the stipend, em- strategic plan for the last three years pay increase for teachers, counselors, psychologists, librarians and admin- ployees will need to sign their contract in terms of the addition of instrucistrators. The board also approved ex- for 2022-23. tional coaches,” Superintendent Shane Any employees hired after the start McCord said. “Their job is to be the inpanding pay for performance to professional employees at an estimated cost of the new school year won’t be eligible structional leader on their campus and for the stipend as well as any employee as each year rolls on that becomes more of $800,000. And all employees regardless of their leaving the district before the end of the and more challenging and they need classification will receive a $1,500 re- contracted period of work. support themselves.” Betz also provided an overview of tention/recruitment stipend funded from Education Plus Up, ESSER III and a the preliminary budget for fiscal year see GPS page 18

Town Council voted last week 5-2 to give 5% raises to all employees. (YouTube) employees and that is one of the reasons why we have the lowest cost with the highest level of services of any jurisdic-

tion in the metro Phoenix area.” Dawn Prince, assistant town manager, said, “The world of work has changed.

Economists are saying that we’re experiencing several different trends at once – the Great Resignation, the Great Promotion, the increased inflation, employees having the choice, the ability to move between organizations, remote work is another thing that has changed expectations for employees and so there are a lot going on. “Low employment is something else we are facing and we’re really just struggling with retention and with recruitment.” According to Prince, the town’s turnover rate in March was just under 14%, up from just under 8% the same month in 2021. “We have had a significant amount of turnover in Gilbert,” she said. The vacancy rate wasn’t much better at 11.5% for March compared with 9.5% in January town-wide, she said.

see RAISES page 13

NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

Legendary Wild Horse raceway closing next February BY PAUL MARYNIAK GSN Executive Editor

fter four decades of racing thrills, Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park will be closed forever next year as the Gila River Indian Community’s development arm takes a giant step toward creating a 3,300-acre entertainment-retail-office complex. The Wild Horse Pass Development Authority announced March 25 the former Firebird International Raceway would hold its final National Hot Rod Association race (NHRA) next February at the 440-acre complex that includes a drag strip, road course and 2.4-mile oval motorboat racing lake. “For nearly 40 years, the NHRA, in conjunction with the Wild Horse Pass Development Authority, has wowed Arizona spectators and fans at the fastest quarter-mile in Arizona,” its brief announcement on social media stated. “Wild Horse Pass Development Authority is excited to celebrate the final race of this storied racetrack, February 2023.” Authority Interim General Manager Elizabeth Antone added, “Arizona has been an incredible supporter of the NHRA and Wild Horse Pass Motorsport Park for the past four decades and we are very grateful for this tremendous fan support. We know this final race will be a celebration that NHRA fans are famous for.” Neither tribal nor authority officials returned phone calls and emails seeking further comment. Also not commenting was Sunbelt Holdings, a Scottsdale development company that was charged by the GRIC early last year with leading the creation of a mega-complex that would include additional hotels, wellness and event centers, an outdoor amphitheater for concerts, sports facilities, outdoor recreation and parks, restaurants, retail establishments and an office park. When the tribe and Sunbelt announced the development plan in January 2021, Sunbelt President John Graham said, “The stuff we do is long term in nature,” he said. “Our first plan is kind of a 10-year plan but I would believe between this

This vision of Wild Horse Pass Development Authority’s proposed 3,300-acre development was released early last year. (File photo) land and other tribal land around it that it’s a 30-year build-out.” The Wild Horse Pass Authority has been promoting that development on its website as a federal Opportunity Zone, where companies can secure big tax breaks for developing new properties and upgrading existing ones in areas designated as economically distressed. “Where Interstate 10 Meets Loop 202, Opportunity Meets Its Destination,” the authority states, noting the “3,300-acre master-planned commercial development (is) offering sites for: entertainment, retail, office and themed attractions. Available sites range in size to accommodate from 1,000 to 1,000,000 square feet with no real-property tax.” Phoenix Rising, the state’s largest professional soccer team, last year opened a new 6,200-seat stadium on the site. The tribe also had made a pitch to host the 2021 Arizona State Fair as the pandemic threatened its usual Phoenix site, but fair officials decided the site lacked sufficient infrastructure to accommodate hundreds of thousands of fair visitors and that time was too short to address major issues there. While the raceway is going away, a longtime school that teaches racing and other sophisticated driving techniques isn’t moving.

“The recent announcement regarding the future of the drag racing track at Wildhorse Pass Motorsports Park will not have an impact on our operations or course offerings,” said Mike Kessler, general manager at Radford Racing School. “Our legendary 1.6-mile racetrack is the heart and soul of our school, and we’ll continue to be a world-class driver training facility and motorsports destination for performance enthusiasts worldwide,” Kessler added. Radford Racing School takes its name from Radford Motors, a legendary British car manufacturer with brands like Rolls Royce and Bentley. The school’s four owners bought the property after the 50-year-old Bondurant School of High Performance Driving tanked several years ago in a multimillion-dollar bankruptcy case. Following the Wild Horse Pass Development Authority’s announcement, the racing fan website dragzine.com said the Motorsports Park closing was related to a pending overhaul of the Wild Horse Pass Exit on the I-10. “Wild Horse Pass officials shared rather unceremoniously via its social media channels that a new overpass/roadway for the I-10 extension will use the space now occupied by the track, with construction presumably set to begin some-

time in 2023,” dragzine said. “Mind you, this highway overpass was not part of the The Wild Horse Pass Development Authority plans shown to the public last January (2021), so this is clearly a recent development, and one that vastly shortened the time that Arizona locals thought they had left to enjoy the facility.” The only problem is that there are no existing plans to overhaul that interchange in the near future, according to the Maricopa Association of Governments, a leading agency for transportation development in the county. Rather, that interchange reconstruction at this point has yet to even make the drawing board, according to John Bullen, MAG transportation economic and finance program manager. “It’s still in the planning stage, if you will,” Bullen said. “We’ve been working with Gila River Indian Community a lot over the last several years, quite honestly. And, there’s been some discussion – I would say, there’s been interest for a new (interchange) sort of in that vicinity.” Bullen said MAG also has been discussing improvements to State Route 347, which runs along the southeastern edge of the proposed mega-development site near Maricopa. “So right now, we’re sort of waiting for information from them what their concept is, what those plans are, what that development is, so that we can then take that and feed it into the MAG socio-economic models,” he said. “Because whenever you’re talking about the addition of a new interchange, we have our traffic modeling or sophisticated modeling and it sort of has to warrant a new interchange. And so we’re waiting for that data to feed into the model to see if that warrants an additional interchange.” “Nothing is concrete right now,” he added. “There are no plans. Obviously, we have funding set aside. There’s this acknowledgment, and I think commitment. that, ‘hey, we’re going to improve access to the Wild Horse Pass area, but we don’t know what that looks like, because we’re still waiting.”

NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

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Gilbert High to also house grades 7, 8 BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

ilbert High School no longer is just for grades 9-12 as it adds an accelerated middle school to its campus next school year. Gilbert Public Schools Governing Board adopted a resolution March 29 approving the reconfiguration of the high school from 9-12 to 7-12. “With the addition of an accelerated middle school there will be some 7th and 8th grade students who will attend and receive instruction at the school,” Superintendent Shane McCord said. “For this reason there is a need to modify Gilbert High School to be a 7-12 campus.” According to the district, 7th- and 8thgrade students “will be immersed in honors and accelerated curriculum with access to the resources of a comprehensive high school, while in a supportive cohort of other 7th and 8th-grade students.” The new addition will allow students to engage in coursework and with staff who will “prepare them for honors, advanced

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placement and international baccalaureate opportunities at the campus,” it added. The majority of classes will be located in a specific area for Gilbert Accelerated Middle School with access to high school-level labs and facilities. There won’t be any sports offerings for the middle school but students will have the chance to join clubs on the high school campus. They also will be able to participate in the high school’s Performing Arts program such as orchestra, choir and band. Buses will be offered and the bell schedule for the middle school has yet to be determined.There are no specific academic requirements or testing scores to enroll in the accelerated middle school. Board member Jill Humpherys noted that this idea has been put forward before. “This is a move forward that will be good for Gilbert High School and for the students who choose to attend,” she said. “I think it’s a really great opportunity for those who want something a little different than our traditional junior high schools.”

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

Easter Pageant makes an old tradition brand new BY PAUL MARYNIAK GSN Executive Editor

enee Prince has a vague memory of going with her family as a little girl to the Mesa Arizona Temple for its modest Easter morning sunrise service. She has a more distinct recollection of visiting home from college more than 20 years ago and seeing how a humble sunrise service that began in 1938 had been transformed after 1976. It had blossomed into an inspiring reenactment of the life of Jesus Christ with dozens of volunteers dressed in period clothing, their script verbatim passages from the Bible and a moving score accompanying them. Now, the lifelong Mesa resident is the artistic director of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Jesus the Christ Easter Pageant, meticulously conducting the movements of 425 people in the world’s largest annual outdoor production of its kind. After a three-year absence necessitated by an exhaustive restoration of the temple and its grounds, the Easter Pageant returns Wednesday, April 6, with a new and bigger stage, some new and top-secret props, upgraded sound and light systems, a revised script based on the King James Version of the Bible, and a score specifically recorded for the show by the London Symphony Orchestra only a few months ago. Astonishingly, it’s free. Church and Mesa Arizona Temple leaders consider the pageant their gift to the community to celebrate what spokeswoman Jennifer Wheeler called “Christ’s powerful message of forgiveness, hope and peace.” And pageant leaders and downtown Mesa are braced for crowds for the pageant, which begins nightly at 8 p.m. April 6-9 and April 12-16 on the Mesa Arizona Temple’s north lawn, 101 S. LeSueur. For those who can’t wait, a dress rehearsal will be held sometime after 7 p.m. Tuesday. But don’t expect to see every sequence in order or a smooth start-to-finish presentation because, af-

Composer/conductor/scriptwriter Rob Gardner of Gilbert takes a moment with pageant artistic Director Jenee Prince during a rehearsal last week. (David Minton/GSN Staff Photogra-

pher)

ter all, it is a final rehearsal. Over 9,500 folding chairs have been set up on the grounds. Details on parking and other important information for attendees – including a prohibition on saving more than a couple of seats – are at mesatemple.org. Prince has been artistic director since 2011 after serving as assistant artistic director the previous six years. She defines her role as “taking care of our cast” and “putting things together on the stage creatively.” Even during a media night on Thursday, she fretted over the minutest of each scene’s details scene, making tweaks here and there to to present as accurate a life-like portrayal of the Gospels as possible. How accurate? The cast includes live sheep and donkeys. Two infants in the cast – one a 3-month-old girl – will alternate for the Nativity scene. A printed plastic overlay on the front of each temple step leading to the stage replicates the stonework that existed in Jesus’ time. A strong core of other pageant leaders have worked with Prince. Steve West as executive director and Matt Riggs as assistant executive direc-

tor filled the roles of producer, overseeing all the complexities of the mammoth production from construction of the stage to installation of tons’ worth of light towers to security and portable bathrooms – basically, Prince said, “all of the elements of how the project comes together.” Helping Prince are assistant directors Dana Rodgers, Tyler Maxson, Dan Good and Steve Abaroa; hair/make up director Jennifer Anderson; and costume director Kay Walker while Steve and Liz Porter oversee all aspects of the stage, sets and props that West and Riggs set in place months ago. And there are committees working with all those people – part of 400 volunteers who play some off-stage role to ensure a smooth performance every night the cast takes the stage. Prince started her work well before the first rehearsals March 12, overseeing a casting call that began early last fall. Because COVID protocols were still in place, applicants were asked to include a video in which they were asked why they wanted a part. The acting core was selected first and not long after Thanksgiving, the rest

of the ensemble was picked. Now they are grouped in what Prince calls “family casts” that are prepared to move onto the stage whenever they’re called during the 74-minute production. The cast comprises seasoned actors and actress, newbies and many people from families with multiple generations having appeared in previous pageants. ““We have a Shakespearean actor, a retired theater teacher and people who have been in the pageant before and people who are very, very new to this experience,” Prince said. “Working together and collaborating operating together has been one of my most favorite parts of all of this because it is amazing to know that five different people can have different ideas about how things can come together – and then they just come together. “They were notified before the end of the year so that they could plan their lives accordingly,” Prince added, “because we really do ask them to block out their schedules from March 12 until April 13. That’s a big ask for people. But it’s just amazing to see the dedication of these incredible people just wanting to share God’s love with thousands of people every night.” As the casting calls went out last year, celebrated Gilbert writer/composer/ conductor Rob Gardner was polishing a revised script and writing a new score. “I’ve never been in it,” Gardner said, “but I remember coming as a kid and sitting and getting our fast food with the family and having a little picnic on the grass. And it was always like kind of a thing to look forward to at Easter – to come down to the grounds and watch the pageant. “So it’s kind of fun this year to be on the other side of things and see how things work,” added Gardner, who began working on the script and score in July. Then he turned to his long-time contacts with the London Symphony Orchestra. Gardner, Prince and her assistant di-

see PAGEANT page 10

NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

PAGEANT from page 9

rectors went to London in January to have that score recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra, which Gardner conducted. “It was powerful,” Prince said of the recording session. “I loved every minute of being in London – it was my first time there – but the highlight of the trip was just to be there and to be with those gifted musicians who worked so hard to just project their art. To be in the same room with those people and to watch Rob participate and lead that group of people was amazing for me.” Prince said there was nothing wrong with the old soundtrack, calling the new score “an update version of a perfect story – the greatest story ever told.” “We wanted to highlight the Jef Rawls, one of four adults cast as Jesus, rehearses a scene on the Mesa Arizona Temple stairs that lead to the life of the Savior in other ways,” main stage. (David Minton/GSN Staff Photographer) she continued. “I love the old

soundtrack and it still works, still holds true.” But, she added, the new score “is just different,” adding that one big difference is the digital technology that wasn’t even born when the first sound track was recorded 56 years ago. The upgraded sound system, delivers the score so crisply that veteran pageant attendees will be surprised. “It’s best not to stay too close to the speakers during the earthquake,” Riggs said only half-jokingly. It really does seem like an earthquake.” The score, said Prince, is “very, very different.” “I’m so excited to see and feel and hear and about the life of Jesus Christ in just a different way,” she said. Indeed, Prince said in some

see PAGEANTpage 12

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MUSEUM from page 3

the Town also hosts a variety of arts and culture events and programs.” He pointed to Gilbert Parks and Recreation, which provides over 3,500 community programs annually, ranging from arts, culture, fitness and special interest classes for all ages. “The Town also works with several strategic community partners in providing additional activities for the community such as AZCEND, Maricopa County Library District and Desert Rivers Audubon,” Banger said. “In addition, Gilbert hosts over 50 special events per year, including arts-and-cultural activities such as the Gilbert Global Village Festival and Gilbert Days.” And, Banger said, the Town has an Arts Committee Task Force that is activated for special projects. Recently it was activated to give feedback on the design of the Ocotillo Bridge, he said. “Other examples of Town-supported arts projects include the IN FLUX temporary art installations and art benches in the Heritage District,” he said. “ We continue to look for opportunities to bring art into the community. For example, we are currently exploring ways to incorporate art within future phases of Gilbert Regional Park.” Lopez, however, said she wouldn’t mind more financial help from Gilbert. “We would be thrilled if we had more participation at the town level,” Lopez said. “There have been talks initiated

with members of town staff to hopefully make it a little bit more equal as far as surrounding municipalities what they give to their arts and culture organizers versus what Gilbert gives us.” She pointed out that HD SOUTH is anchoring the south end of the Heritage District and provides an economic impact for the Town. Although foot traffic at HD SOUTH is not what it was pre-pandemic when it averaged 8,000 visitors a year, “we are back up to approximately 3,600,” Lopez said. “The more people who move here, they look for arts and culture venues and historical venues,” she said. “We are about the perfect place for that. Rather than people go to Mesa or Chandler to see big exhibits or experience art galleries with extensive art collections we need to keep those folks here.”

Councilwoman Yung Koprowski also had concerns given the maximum speed for the electric scooter is 15 mph. “To have them be allowed to use bike lanes I have some concern about the speed differential on our 40 mph or greater roadways,” Koprowski said. Bubenheim said staff could take a look at what other municipalities do, then make a recommendation. “I love consistency so I like the idea of us being consistent with the cities and towns around us,” Mayor Brigette Peterson said. “But the accidents cause me pause on that. I would like to see that data before I would decide whether or not I would want them to be able to be

allowed in the bike lanes.” Koprowski commented that she would support making the pilot program permanent if scooters are allowed only in bike lanes on roadways with a speed limit of 35 mph or less. Currently scooters are allowed on a public street with a limit of 25 mph or less. Tilque said she would support Koprowski’s proposal with more data on crashes in bike lanes. Councilman Scott Anderson said it was time for the program to become permanent and he would consider limiting the number of companies and the number of scooters allowed in Gilbert.

SCOOTERS from page 4

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ways she felt like she was directing the pageant for the first time because she isn’t working with the same sets – even the same stage – that she had been accustomed to for nearly 20 years. “It was a well-oiled machine,” she said of her previous stints. “As director for the last 10 years or whatever, it was a pretty easy go….Everything was kind of outlined for us. Now we have new characters in new costumes with new props on a new stage. “I mean, the biggest challenge was just having a new pageant. We’ve been working hard to putting this together one scene at a time.” But all that newness has been exhilarating for Prince and the rest of the pageant participants. “It doesn’t feel challenging,” she said. “It feels exciting. It feels like we’re just

building step by step, piece by piece, scene by scene and then we start making these beautiful pictures to present to our audience and I am really excited about that.” “It’s just been amazing to see this thing come together so quickly and it is just the efforts of so many people and a really dedicated, wonderful and willing cast,” she continued. “All those people are helping us create this for many years to come. “It’s such an incredible blessing. I don’t know another place in the world where that happens, where you have this many people gathering together just to share a story that they believe in to give hope to the world. It’s very, very unique and we get to do it right here in Mesa.”

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

RAISES from page 6

Gilbert is experiencing lower numbers of candidates for some positions and some departments especially are seeing challenges retaining workers, most notably Environmental Services, which is struggling to find drivers, according to Prince. “There’re a lot of opportunities for drivers to go elsewhere in other positions and get paid more,” she said. “Some of the things other municipalities such as Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler and Scottsdale have done included giving hiring incentives, bonuses and extra time off,” she said. “As we look at that we always come back to what would make sense for Gilbert,” Prince added. Officials have been monitoring the market to identify necessary adaptations in recruitment and retention strategies, with several already underway or in development, according to Prince. Some examples include increased frequency of benchmarking for high-risk roles to ensure Gilbert’s positions stay as competitive as possible, updates to and streamlining processes to ensure positions are filled expeditiously and interviews to help identify morale and engagement challenges, she said. Additionally, a cross-departmental team was formed to identify department-specific challenges and associated opportunities for how to best respond and adapt, she added. Vice Mayor Aimee Yentes said she was a bit disappointed from the standpoint that during the financial retreat in March, her colleagues wanted recommendations that would not be a blanket approach. “You had mentioned some departments were seeing specific, acute issues,” Yentes said. “So, I was hoping to see maybe some targeted solutions in those areas. I don’t know whether this policy has addressed those specific problems and those specific areas or if we should be maybe looking at a more strategic approach and making sure we are really clear what the problem is in the particular departments that are the most affected. “I don’t know if the people at the top are as impacted as maybe some of the

The town is grappling with higher employee turnover, one of the reasons Council approved pay hikes for current workers. (Town of Gilbert) people who have to commute and are paying those gas prices. I don’t know if there is any consideration for which employees, whether it’s department-driven or pay-driven or what not, where those breaks are.” Yentes added that she thought the Council would have a study session with staff presenting a menu of options and was a little surprised to be voting on the proposal that night. Prince responded, “What we realized as we talked through what those things would be and how they could be implemented we realized they were a lot more in-depth than we initially thought. So those items are still moving forward and we are still looking at it from a targeted lens in figuring out what is going to help in those specific areas. “This is only our initial now-item but we have several other items, which I think will get to what you were hoping for…It just needed more vetting.” Yentes and Councilman Laurin Hendrix voted against the raises and another agenda item meant to help with staffing issues. They rejected using $2 million in unspent federal pandemic relief monies or CARES to reduce the impact of employees’ medical coverage increases. “I know when we got our initial allocation of CARES funds there was a subcommittee process and we kind of

flushed out what the priorities were going to be,” said Yentes, who chaired the Council subcommittee. “A good portion of that money was allocated for various business programs. “The strategy was setting up short-, mid- and long-term strategies that were going to help the business community as their needs shifted and changed and evolved over the pandemic. These two items are siphoning money from what their original purpose was.” Another agenda item she and Hendrix rejected was $1 million from CARES for a project upgrading a fleet maintenance facility. Yentes proposed going back to the business community and the Chamber of Commerce for feedback on what their needs are currently. “I’m not sure how those needs have evolved and maybe this is a perfectly good use of the CARES money or maybe we should be re-evaluating what some of those needs in the community are,” Yentes said. “I would prefer take a pause and do that before spending the money. “I know it’s easy as an organization to find lots of needs and lots of holes to plug this money into. I would argue there might be some better ways to directly benefit the taxpayers and businesses and the citizens.” Councilwoman Yung Koprowski said she supported the recommended use of

the monies, which have sat unspent by the business community for over a year. “One of the reasons why I feel this is an appropriate use of these monies is because it is reducing the burden on the Town of Gilbert and its employees as well,” Koprowski said; “which would ultimately flow down to taxpayers because if we don’t pay for it this way, we will have to pay for it another way.” The subcommittee in 2020 came up with a three-tier program to provide short-, mid- and long-term help to businesses with loans, grants and technical help totaling $18 million. September said he supported putting the remaining funds into the Health Trust Fund, which has been affected with some unanticipated costs related to COVID testing, treatment and vaccinations, according to staff. As of February, the Town’s health provider reported total claims paid at about $1.7 million, which was expected to increase to roughly $2.1 million by June 30. “It’s still a one-time fund that addresses the impacts,” September said. “It still impacts the effects of COVID and would help alleviate what looks like a looming 15 percent increase to our employees’ health insurance premiums. The Town being self-insured, we absorb 80 to 85% of the costs but to be able to relieve that from our employees I think is helpful. Economic Development Director Dan Henderson said the unspent money is coming from the loan program, which did not receive much interest from the business community. He added that the grants were almost entirely spent while the long-term technical assistance was still ongoing for businesses. Councilwoman Kathy Tilque, the longtime CEO of Gilbert Chamber of Commerce before she retired, said, “One of the things that drives the cost of your premiums is the last year’s usage and there are high usage due to COVID. And that’s what some of these funds are used for – is to help us deal with the cost of COVID.” Yentes pointed out that the businesses community was dealing with the exact same issue.

see RAISES page 14

NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

Scores of downtown Gilbert visitors got to see some colorful presentations representing different cultures around the world during the Global Village Festival March 26. Among the sights and sounds were 1) the Ameripan Kids, 2) the Taiko drummers K2 Enterprise with Ken Koshio; 3) a stilt walker who moved through the crowd as Sankofa African Drumming performed; 4) and Ty Lodgepole of Indigenous Enterprise performing the Prairie Chicken Dance. (David Minton/GSN Staff Photographer)

RAISES from page 13

Koprowski also asked if CARES money is not used for the fleet maintenance facility project where would money for that come from. Pfost said the money would have to come from another source or the town would need to do a rate hike in the Environmental Services Department. “We do keep our enterprise funds self-sufficient,” Pfost said. “And we would have to have a rate increase in that area. They would not have enough funding likely to go through all of fiscal year 2021 and stay above minimal fund

balance.” For that reason, Koprowski said she would support that recommended expenditure. “I see this as a benefit to the residents because if we pay for this $1 million for this major project for Environmental Services, we are going to reduce the rate increase for that enterprise fund for Environmental Services,” she said. Councilman Scott Anderson noted, “Whatever we are going to do let’s do it now because I keep reading every day of communities that are being criticized for

stonewalling and not using these funds when they are made available. “So we need to use them and use them within the perimeters of whatever the guidelines were. “And if that necessitate having to sit down with the chamber and run it by them one last time, lets do it. Let’s make sure that we do it in a timely way.” Council also unanimously approved a one-time increase of the vacation rollover cap by 80 hours for the current fiscal year– another perk to keep employees.

Town Manger Patrick Banger thanked Council for its support. “My gratitude to you on behalf of the 1,600 employees in the town,” said Banger, who earns an annual pay of $268,792. “They work very hard for this community and I am very appreciative of your support of us to continue to hold onto the talented employees we have and attract new team members that will help plug the gaps that we are currently experiencing and manage the growth that this community is seeing at almost a record pace.”

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

Chandler boy, 5, to lead Run for Cancer BY KEN SAIN GSN Staff Writer

indsay Shaw said she and her husband wanted to give their 4-yearold son Connor a big goal to keep him motivated as he was battling cancer. “When he first got diagnosed we asked him, like, ‘This is going to be super hard, but we’ll take you anywhere you want to go when you’re done.’ I’m pretty sure he picked … Barnes & Noble.” The south Chandler mom told him, “Think bigger!” Connor was diagnosed with leukemia in August 2020. He immediately started getting treatment and it has worked; his body no longer is creating leukemia cells. He continues to get chemo treatments to rid his body of any cancerous cells. If everything stays according to plan, Connor will finish with the treatments in November. And then as a reward, he and his family will head to Florida for a trip

to Disneyworld. The now 5-year-old does have an important job before that trip. He will be the official race starter for the Chandler-based Children’s Cancer Network’s annual Run to Fight Children’s Cancer on April 9 at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale. He also will wear a super hero cape and mask and participate in the Cancer Survivor’s Walk. “Obviously, in the beginning we were devastated, and just never thought in a million years this would be something we’d be going through,” Lindsay said. “You always think it’s never going to happen to you. ‘That’s really sad for somebody else, but I’m glad that’s not us.’ To be in a position where it is us, has been just such a learning experience for us for like how our family handles stuff, tragedy, hardship.” Lindsay said one thing she learned is Chandler resident Lindsay Shaw watches as her son Connor picks out a super hero mask how strong her support network is, with from Patti Luttrell, executive director and co-founder of the Chandler-based Children’s Cancer Network. (David Minton/Arizonan Staff Photographer) see CANCER page 18

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

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CANCER from page 16

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

family and friends coming to their aid in a matter of hours. She said Connor has earned the super hero cape the Children’s Cancer Network has given him. “He has an incredibly positive attitude,” Lindsay said. “In the beginning there was medication. Any parent knows giving a 4-year-old medication two times a day when they don’t want to take medication is like hell. We fought with him for like 45 minutes in the morning and 45 minutes in the evening to try and get him to take medication. “After two or three weeks, he was like, ‘OK, I’ll do it.’” She said Connor tries to make the nurses and doctors laugh when he goes for a doctor’s visit.

“He either doesn’t complain, or if he does complain, it’s very short lived.” That’s not something most chemo patients can say. “It’s really set a tone for us as parents,” Lindsay said. “If he can do it, we can do it. He’s doing OK, and we’ll be OK, too.” “I think that’s why he’s so inspirational to a lot of us,” said Patti Luttrell, the Children Cancer Network’s executive director. “He just wants to be a kid, first and foremost. I’ve spent some time with him at the playground, and I’m like, ‘Whoa, watch him go.’” Luttrell started the nonprofit after one of her children battled cancer. The Chandler-based group acts as a support system for families dealing with childhood cancer. Next week’s race is one of a few

events they do each year to raise funds. In addition to the survivor’s walk around the bases, there will be a 10K and 5K. Lindsay said there have been set backs during treatment, including an infection in a port that required a trip back to the hospital and a second port placement. “Even in that, his positive attitude outshines all of the negative,” she said.

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GPS from page 6

The district currently has part-time instructional coaches at the elementary level who work with the teacher leader on a particular campus. “So having that instructional coach working in tandem with that principal who’s their instructional leader there’s a shared understanding of the standards and curriculum,” McCord said. “Instructional coaches are not administrators – I want to make that clear to everybody. Their feedback is truly for help and support. “Again, the job is to make sure you can go in and help coach whether it’s a brand-new teacher, whether it’s a veteran teacher, anybody who needs help with instruction but the expectation always is making sure that those that are new to education there is someone there for them to go to on the ready to be able to give them that helping hand. “In having conversations with our principals as well, this is something we believe will benefit our students in the long run.”

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GPS’ annual student art show opens downtown BY SRIANTHI PERERA GSN Contributor

mryn Ricks is one of about 700 students whose work is on display during the 2022 Gilbert Public Schools Elementary Art Show that runs through April 10 at Norwood Furniture in downtown Gilbert. The grade four student from Highland Park Elementary wrote the following artist statement about her class painting of stars and other shapes made with tempera on construction paper: “I really enjoyed making my positive/ negative analogous painting. When I first made it, I thought it was kind of messy. Then I realized, it wasn’t messy, it was my creation. I hope you like my shape like I do.” Fourth-grader Kisalei Filimaua, also from Highland Park Elementary, will

Art teacher Bethany Bergman of Neely Traditional Academy prepares the art for display in the Gilbert Public Schools Elementary Art Show. (Courtesy GPS)

display a bright, yellowish-green parrot drawn against a shaded blue background, created with markers, watercolor and salt. “What I liked the best was the colors,” she wrote. “When I look at my art, it reminds me of my pet bird that passed.” The art show, an annual tradition for more than 25 years, takes place in-person this year after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic. The artistic mediums are painting, drawing, sculpture and mixed media. The artists receive a certificate and a medal for participation. Norwood Furniture has been the venue for the show from its outset, when the district consisted of five elementary schools in 1991. Now, it has 26. The artwork is hung in the various galleries of the furniture store, thereby the

see ART page 22

HD SOUTH hosts many programs this month GSN NEWS STAFF

D SOUTH, home of the Gilbert Historical Museum and an arts, culture and history center, has a full lineup of programs next month. Originally opened as Gilbert Elementary School in 1913, HD SOUTH is the oldest building still standing in Gilbert and is the only one on the National Register of Historic Places. The programs and events at HD SOUTH focus on six community pillars – history, health and wellness, science, literature, art and music. To register, visit hdsouth.org/calendar. Unless noted otherwise, programs are $5 and registration is required. Masks are required. HD SOUTH is open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Cathy Lester and Bev Brower hold up one of the framed center / medallion quilts from the American Quilt Study Group. (Photo Courtesy of Deepika Haldankar)

EXHIBITS Gilbert Visual Arts League The 19th annual GVAL Juried Art Show and Sale runs through April 9. Art is selected by a professional juror all pieces can be viewed online at gval.org. In the past, the show has included over 80 pieces of assorted works in all media. GVAL is a non-profit group that offers a venue for local artists to show their work and strives to increase artistic awareness and appreciation in the community. Admission to Gallery 4 is included in the price of museum admission. Art of Quilting The 17th annual Art of Quilting show includes a special exhibit from the American Quilt Study Group with more than 25 Framed Center/Medallion quilts. The

see SOUTH page 22

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

ACTIVE LIVING MADE EASY AT ALBUM 55+ Active Adult Community Clubhouse Model at Album Cooley Station

Greystar is excited to bring their latest Album community to Gilbert. The Album lifestyle is highly sought after by young at heart, 55+ active adults. It’s perfect for those looking for more in life, style, community, and activities. Welcome to a carefree, maintenance-free living in a controlled-access community designed to be empowering as well as peaceful. Lead your life, as you see fit, and with time to spare, in a place where the feeling is one of excitement for what the future holds. At Album Cooley Station, you’ll find sophisticated residences with modern features in addition to stimulating onsite

offerings and beautiful social spaces to enjoy. They’ll be conveniently just outside your door; no need to drive anywhere! Your day might begin with coffee with new friends and then to the activities calendar to decide how your day will take shape. There is so much to do here. Each day will be full of variety and fun. Album is the perfect place to share your passions, find new ones, and make friends easily along the way. What truly sets Album apart is the opportunity to have a real say in the active lifestyle clubs and events. Residents will create, contribute their talents, and run the clubs/events they want. Examples include teaching a

cooking class, meeting up for happy hour (and yappy hours), walking club, flower arranging, movie/game night, and seasonally inspired events. The only limit is your imagination. The Album Cooley Station leasing center is now open and located at EZ Spaces - 1530 E Williams Field Rd, Suite 201, Gilbert, AZ 85295. Our team will be happy to provide you with more information on available apartment homes, villas and casitas that will be move-in ready fall 2022. Whether you are considering downsizing yourself or have a loved one far away that you want close, Album is an exciting option right here in Gilbert.

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

ART from page 20

work gets more exposure to the public that visits the store. Reception nights for the artists, their families, GPS district officials and the community are from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. tomorrow, April 4, to April 6. The GPS art education program teaches art history, appreciation, production and evaluation. Students also learn art elements (color, line, shape, form, space, texture and value) and principles of design (center of interest, unity, balance, variety, movement and proportion). The learning is choice-based as well, which inspires creativity, builds confidence and develops curiosity and overall, leads to more authentic work. Anne Schwaab, head of the District Elementary Art Department, said making art is important to developing minds. “Every child has a creative side; if they don’t feel comfortable with it as a child, then they are not as free with it as they get older,” said Schwaab, who also teaches art at Oak Tree and Highland Park elementary schools. “A lot of adults always say ‘I can’t even draw a stick figure,’ but every child considers themselves as an artist, so it’s really important for them to find their creative side at a younger age so they can build upon it and do other things creatively,” she added. Each school chose 20-30 pieces of artwork. “It’s always difficult to choose just one or two pieces of artwork per class

SOUTH from page 20

quilt show also features more than 100 quilts by local artisans and will run to May 30. Gem & Mineral Exhibit On display till April 25, this exhibit features an extensive and gorgeous selection of gems and minerals from the Southwest. Each object is on loan from the personal private collection of Les Presmyk of Gilbert, a mine engineer and geologist. The exhibit is included in the price of museum admission. APRIL PROGRAMS Monday Yoga with Ginger, 6:30-7:30 p.m. April 11, 18, 25

Anne Schwaab, head of the District Elementary Art Department, believes making art is important to developing minds. (Courtesy GPS) because there is such a variety of wonderful artwork to choose from,” said Marissa Gomez Sanchez, art educator at Boulder Creek, Patterson and Greenfield elementary schools. Artwork is selected on certain criteria based on guidelines such as student understanding/incorporation of key art concepts, composition, craftsmanship and the completion of the artwork, she said.

“I’m impressed with how creative my students can be,” Gomez Sanchez added. “I enjoy giving them basic guidelines, which include incorporating art concepts, and seeing what they can come up with.” Gomez Sanchez concedes that it’s not always an easy task. “Some students can find it challenging but one of our art classroom mottos is to “always do your best,” she said.

Ginger Smith guides the class on relaxation techniques and muscle conditioning. She is a certified yoga and group fitness instructor and her training includes restorative & yin flow, yoga & weights and chair yoga, incorporating movement, breathing and emotional balance. All levels, bring your mat. Ages 16 & up. Non-members: $5. Paint and Sip – Roosters In Watercolor, April 5 6:30-8 p.m. Gilbert Visual Arts League member, Jean Smith will lead participants through the steps to create roosters using watercolors. Whether you are a beginner or a

seasoned painter, come and learn how to paint your very own rooster masterpiece. All art supplies will be provided. BYOB. Ages 21+. Cost: $5 STEM Saturday, April 9, 10:30 a.m.noon Spend a Saturday morning at the museum conducting fun and exciting science experiments. Local college professors and teachers will lead participants through science experiments that will allow kids to tie-dye their own t-shirts as they explore the exciting side of science safely. All supplies will be provided. Ages 6 and up. Cost: $3

“Although it can be challenging, I try to emphasize a culture of learning in which students can feel comfortable asking for help or suggestions during their creative process.” The opposite happens sometimes, also. “It’s mind boggling to see how students can take these guidelines and turn them into an artwork that fulfills their creative expression in a way that I didn’t think was possible,” Gomez Sanchez said. Gomez has observed the work ethic of students and said everybody works differently and at various paces. There are some that like to be the “perfectionists” and may want to restart because of a slight “mistake” or take a few art sessions to complete one section of their artwork. Others are “speed racers” and finish so quickly to see what their next artistic endeavor will be. Some are “unsure” and aren’t certain if their artwork is “correct” and sometimes second guess their own creative decisions. Finally, there are those that are “certain” and know exactly what their artwork will look like and how they can achieve it. “Regardless of their age and/or artistic ability, my hope is that their end result is something they can be proud of and hopefully they learned something new along the way,” the teacher said. Norwood Furniture is at 216 N. Gilbert Road in Downtown Gilbert. Cooking Up Good Health, April 12, 6:30-8 p.m. This healthy cooking program conducted by Rachel Thomas, who has hosted thousands of cooking demonstrations and has an extensive library of healthy recipes, will feature some of her recipes. Art Workshop With GVAL, April 23, 10:30 a.m.-noon. A member from the Gilbert Visual Arts League will lead participants through a workshop where they will learn new

see SOUTH page 24

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

COMMUNITY

Obituaries Spring Forward 480-898-6465 • obits@timespublications.com Deadline: Wednesday by 5pm for Sunday

In Loving Memory of

Gwen Elaine Giebelhaus Jones

February 23, 1931 – January 6, 2022 Born in Vegreville, Alberta, Canada, to Conrad and Margaretta Giebelhaus, Gwen, one of five children, grew up on the farm, where her love of horses began early. She headed to Tucson, AZ with her parents and daughter, Valerie (1954), for the winter of 1955 and never left. There she met and married Orville Briel and they had two children, Daryl Robert "Bob" (1956) and Melanie (1958). In 1973, Orville and Gwen divorced. She married Vern Jones in 1975 and moved to Cochise, AZ in 1977. She worked at the Arizona Electric Power Coop Plant for 17 years and continued to help out when needed for many years after retiring. Gwen was a woman ahead of her time, independent, persistent, maybe just a little stubborn. She got her pilot's license when she was 55 and even owned her own plane! She fearlessly embraced the Tech-Age and emailed often. On January 6, 2022, Gwen passed away, eager to meet her Lord, just weeks before her 91st birthday. She is survived by her three children, Valerie, Bob, and Melanie; her two stepchildren, Royce and Rhyna; her grandchildren, Christina, Desiree and Jared, Leah and Dallas; step-grandchildren Jayce, and Robyn, Jet, and Skylar; 7 great-grandchildren and 3 step-greatgrandchildren. Gwen will be remembered for her love of horses, her sweet tooth and apricot jam, her determination and faith. She leaves a legacy of persistence and love for God.

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Deadline for Sunday’s Edition is the Wednesday prior at 5pm. Please call Elaine at 480-898-7926 to inquire or email your notice to: legals@evtrib.com and request a quote.

Franklin John Sundstrom

Frank Sundstrom born 4/17/1958 died 3/28/2022. He was very loved by his wife Dawn Sundstrom for more than 38 years and their daughter, Autumn Cassens and his mother, Jacquelyn McVay. And he loved his family and extended family the best he knew how. Frank loved to ride his Harley Davidson Electra Glide Classic. Now he's free to ride whatever God has for him. He loved the Lord and tried to live as God wanted him. Now he's safe in the arms of Jesus where he can be with family who has gone on before. He will be very missed.

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

SOUTH from page 22

A champion poet Gabriel Neff, a junior at Gilbert High School, was one of two big state champions in the annual AIA Speech and Debate Tournament recently and will now be preparing for the national tournament in Louisville, Kentucky in June. He captured first place in AIA Division 1 Original Spoken Word Poet, which requires students to write and perform at least three original poems and advance through preliminaries and two elimination rounds. Since this is the first year Spoken Word has been offered, Gabriel is the first ever Division 1 champion in this event. His poems Gabriel’s poems are titled “When I Was 12 Years Old,” “Sandstorm” and “Movies.” His state championship also earned him a partial scholarship to attend the Institute of Speech and Debate training camp this summer. Meanwhile, Hunter Fenn from Mesquite High School was declared state champ in Big Questions Debate and Prose Interpretation. (Special to GSN)

artistic techniques and make their own personal art projects. All supplies will be provided. Ages 10 and up. Movie Night At The Museum, April 26, 2, 6-8:30 p.m. Each month HD SOUTH with be showing a different movie in the Neely Community Room. Movies will be rated from G to PG, for ages 5 and up. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Attendance will be limited to 30 people. $5. Families In Silhouettes Painting Workshop, April 30, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Join HD SOUTH and local artist, Chris Venema, in this fun and interactive painting workshop. Chris will lead participants through painting silhouette cutouts of you and your family. Be sure to bring a picture that you would like to trace around in order to create your silhouettes. All supplies will be provided. Ages 10 and up.

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

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BUSINESS

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Gilbert business helps scores of entrepreneurs BY ASHLYN ROBINETTE GSN Contributor

hile COVID-19 has shut down many businesses, some were actually born from the pan-

demic. One of them is Sip & Shop, A Local Collection. Located in SanTan Village Mall, Sip & Shop supports more than 55 small businesses inside the store and sells everything under the sun. “We have something for everyone when it comes to products,” said Tiffany Shultz, owner of Sip & Shop. Sip & Shop offers local foods, jewelry, clothes, home décor, seasonal and holiday items and even a variety of classes. For the “sip” portion of the business, the shop also supports local wineries and distilleries by rotating their products each weekend. “We can pretty much do anything,” Shultz said. “We have people who come in looking for custom orders and we’ll say ‘let me check’ and most of the time we can do the personalized order for them because there are so many talented people inside.” With a background in journalism, Shultz originally worked in PR and marketing. After organizing festivals for an array of clients for so long, she was inspired to host events of her own. Shultz then formed a partnership with the town of Queen Creek to bring events there and has been doing festivals since 2014. When the pandemic started, events stopped. Until Shultz could get back to doing festivals, she decided to start Sip & Shop as a pop up in SanTan mall in November 2020. “I never thought that I wanted to own a store,” Shultz said. “COVID made it happen.”

Many vendors who had of this community and partnered with Shultz on having their support has previous festivals were been great. When people also out of work due to come into the store they the pandemic. So, those say it makes them so vendors joined Sip & happy. That’s what I enjoy Shop. a lot – the people.” What was just supSip & Shop itself is posed to be a six week growing as Shultz is pop-up turned into a looking for a second locanearly year and a half tion in the Queen Creek business. “Everyone was area. so happy and excited “We’re looking at putting around 50 busiabout it that we decided nesses inside the store,” to continue on,” Shultz she said. “We want to said. expand our food area so Now, Sip & Shop actuthat we have more food ally has a waitlist for venfrom local vendors and dors wanting to get into do more of a patio area, the store. make it more of an experi“We’ve kind of all ence when you’re coming become a little family to shop and hang out with inside,” Shultz said. friends.” “Everyone is very supTo reserve your space portive of each other, for Sip & Shop classes or very supportive of the to apply for the store, visit sales, and very helpful sipandshoparizona.com inside the store. Vendors The store is open work inside the store Monday through so you’ll get to meet the Wednesday from 10 a.m. makers of the products.” to 6 p.m., Thursday from Shultz, who calls herself a “serial entre- Located in SanTan Village Mall, Sip & Shop supports more than 55 small 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday preneur,” aims to help businesses inside the store and sells everything under the sun. (Special to GSN) through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday aspiring entrepreneurs, young and old. kids to be a part of Sip & Shop. Now, the from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Also available on the shop’s website “We wanted to also make Sip & Shop a store sells everything from resin keyplace where kids, who are great creators chains to cactus pin cushions made by are tickets to the Vintage & Vino Mother’s Day Sip & Shop Market. The shopand makers but might not have a place to 7-year-olds to 16-year-olds. show their items or might not be able to “It’s really fun to have them come in ping showcase is slated for 10 a.m. until do festivals on the weekends, can come and see what they sell and how they 8 p.m. Friday, May 6 and Saturday, May in and sell their things in a place where grow and change their products,” Shultz 7 at the arena located at the Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre, 20464 E. they can grow their business from a added. young age,” she explained. The transition from festival producer Riggs Road, Queen Creek, where more than 100 vendors, feature live acoustic Shultz started out with showcasing her to store owner has fun, Shultz said. daughter’s sticker company inside the “My favorite part is just watching busi- music, make-and-takes and more will be store, then expanded by inviting other nesses grow,” she said. “Being a part featured.

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

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OPINION

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

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For more opinions visit gilbertsunnews.com /Gilber tSunNews

Why voting NO is usually a good idea BY MATT NIELSEN GSN Guest Writer

n election day, Arizonans will decide

to approve (or veto) judicial candidates and ballot initiatives. These citizen-initiated referendums dictate exceptions to school budgets, propose new taxes, influence social and cultural norms, and often make fundamental changes to the state constitution. It’s imperative for voters to make an informed decision. Ballot referendums give Arizonans the ability to pass bills as a state law, amend the state constitution, and appeal legislation through a veto. The Arizona Legislature may also place measures on the ballot either as legislatively referred constitutional amendments or state statutes. To get on the ballot, initiative proponents file an application with the Arizona Secretary of State, undergo a fiscal review, and collect signatures—5% to 15% of the previous gubernatorial election’s number of votes. Ballot initiatives are expensive and often require robust campaigns to drum up the support, signatures, and energy to pass them. Though they were designed to give every-day Arizonans an opportunity to participate in the democratic process, the

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reality is that special interests are more interested in bankrolling new ballot initiatives that are personally beneficial, rather than initiatives everyday Arizonans care about. Like traditional candidates running for office, ballot initiative campaigns must also report their finances to the Arizona Secretary of State. Then there are budget measures for school districts – overrides and bonds. Bonds are not increases or decreases to the general fund. If a school district asks voters to approve a bond, there is a specific measure it must go to, or the money is returned to local taxpayers. Bonds are often necessary for schools to accomplish major repairs and improvements to school facilities, but taxpayers should be aware of the increase to local property taxes, the duration of the tax, and what specifically the bond money is going to be used for because they will be footing the bill. Overrides are budgeted increases beyond revenue. If a school wants to go 5% over their budget, the district may begin an override initiative and ask local voters to agree to an increase up to 15%. Taxpayers should consider the method the district wants to use to pay for it, which is often an increase in property taxes. Arizonans don’t need to search very long

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to see examples of bad ballot initiatives overlooked by voters because of strong campaigning. Last cycle, voters approved Proposition 208 – the so-called “Tax on Incomes Exceeding $250,000 for Teacher Salaries and Schools Initiative.” This ballot initiative proposed a new state statute (as opposed to a constitutional amendment) to increase income taxes (an additional 3.50% on top of the existing income tax of 4.50%). This money would be distributed to teacher and classroom support staff salaries and education expenses. Ballot campaigns aren’t above using deceptive language. In Prop 208, if voting no, the ballot read: “a ‘no’ vote opposed this ballot initiative, thus keeping the highest

income tax rate at 4.50% (in 2020).” The campaign wrote the ‘no’ vote to read like a tax increase and the ‘yes’ vote to read like a tax cut. Though it passed, the Arizona Supreme Court later struck down the proposition, finding that it unconstitutionally raised taxes and skirted constitutional restrictions on government spending. We have just one suggestion when voting this election: be wary. More often than not, propositions have powerful backers looking to pass strong-handed laws that are not in the best interests of Arizonans. Matthew Nielsen (@matthewnielsen) is president of the board of the Educational Freedom Institute and a member of the board of East Valley Together.

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Expectations high for ALA Gilbert North baseball BY DYLAN NICHOLS GSN Contributing Writer

he season is young, but the ALA Gilbert North baseball squad has reason to believe this is their year. A fast start combined with a talented roster has given the Eagles plenty of reason to be so confident. The Eagles are motivated after losing in the quarterfinals of the 3A state playoffs against section rival Valley Christian. Head coach Brett Brewer hopes to avoid the mistakes that cost last year’s squad. “We’re taking it one game at a time and one pitch at a time,” said Brewer. It’s hard to do better than what the Eagles are doing right now, a 5-0 start with four of those wins being by a margin of at least eight runs. One of the few competitive matchups so far this season was a 2-0 victory over Odyssey Institute, which lost to Sabino High School in last year’s 3A State Championship game. To date, the Eagles have just three losses on the season. They fell 4-3 to a Desert View team in the 4A Conference, and by the same score to Northwest Christian in extra innings. ALA’s third loss of the season came during a tournament against Crimson Cliffs, an 11-0 team from Utah. One of the major highlights to start the season for the Eagles is their pitching staff. Seniors Dawson Morris and Spencer Nielson have been staples in the starting rotation combining for a 5-1 record with a 2.03 ERA in 31 innings pitched. “Dawson and Spencer, we’re putting a lot on them both,” said Brewer. “They’re great leaders and they’re leading the way with this bullpen.” ALA Gilbert North’s offense has posted some crooked numbers to start this year. They’re doing so however, without any sort of power-hitting element to their game. Including their preseason tournament

American Leadership Academy – Gilbert North baseball coach Brett Brewer believes his team is motivated by last year’s loss in the playoffs. And with plenty of returning talent, the Eagles have already established themselves as contenders in the 3A Conference. (Photos Dave Minton/GSN Staff) While much of their success at the plate this year can be attributed to subpar competition, the Eagles have serious talent all across their lineup. Senior Easton Webster leads the team with 20 hits including six triples which at one point led all of Arizona. Nielson leads the team in RBIs with 17 while junior Jake Porter and Boston ALA Gilbert senior Spencer Nielson has been a staple in sophomore the Eagles’ lineup this season alongside Dawson Morris Morris also provide with a combined record of 5-1 with a 2.03 ERA. solid bats in the middle of the Eagles’ lineup. games, the Eagles have just one home run ALA Gilbert North has a strong upin 16 games. The lone homer came off the perclassmen core, but one of the biggest bat of Brewer in his team’s loss to North- names to watch going forward is sophwest Christian. But despite the lack of omore Hayden Clegg. Brewer was quick homers, the Eagles have won three times to name Clegg as one of the guys who he via the mercy rule this season. believes will be crucial for the team’s suc-

cess. “He [Clegg] can do a lot of things for us. He can pitch, he can hit. He’s got a lot of talent,” said Brewer. Clegg’s two-way talent has shined this season. He is currently tied for the most hits on the team at 21 as of Monday, March 28. He is tied for second on the team in RBIs and has a team-high .512 batting average. He leads the Eagles in innings pitched with 28.1 and boasts an impressive 0.99 ERA with an impressive 34 strikeouts and perfect 5-0 record when on the mound. On a team full of veterans, the sophomore Clegg has proven himself as a foundational piece for the Eagles. Brewer had hoped for some competitive games to help keep his team focused, but the Eagles will have more than a fair share of tough matchups to look forward to. The 3A Metro region boasts talented squads, including 8-2-1 Eastmark, a young team with big bats, and Arizona College Prep, which despite being in its first season, has already established itself as a contender. The Eagles can also look forward to a rematch with Valley Christian as they’ll face the Trojans in two of their final three games to end the season. The Trojans are currently 12-4 on the year including tournaments and sit just behind the Eagles in the region standings. ALA recently wrapped up two games against Benjamin Franklin in Queen Creek. Next week, the Eagles will face Gilbert Christian twice before embarking on the gauntlet of games against Eastmark and Valley Christian before wrapping up its season against San Tan Foothills. While confident, the Eagles are remaining focused on the task at hand. They want redemption from last season’s loss, and if they stick to the basics, they believe they will get that in due time. “Forget about what the score is, we can always do better,” Brewer said.

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

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Arizona Bike Week marks 25th anniversary BY ALEX GALLAGHER GetOut Staff

he cost of events has not been immune to rising inflation and that includes Arizona Bike Week. The weekend celebration has traditionally offered an all-inclusive ticket under $100 but this year, participants will shell out a tad more if they want to help celebrate Arizona Bike Week’s 25th anniversary. “We decided because everything has gone up in the event world, including the cost of putting on concerts, we had to raise our ticket prices a little bit,” said spokeswoman Lisa Cyr. All-access passes this year are $102, though there are now more ticket options. Guests looking to solely witness the power sports and enjoy shopping experiences can be admitted for $12 and individual concert tickets are under $60 for the headline acts. Despite the price hikes, Cyr foresees bikers from across the world congregating for the celebration’s silver anniversary. Motorcycle enthusiasts love anniversaries, so Arizona Bike Week is revving its engines with performances by Social Distortion, Rob Zombie and Lynyrd Skynyrd. The party runs from Wednesday, April 6, to Sunday at WestWorld of Scottsdale. “It’s a really big deal for us, probably even more so than it would be for another event because everybody wants to be there for those big anniversary years,” said Cyr. “Our attendees come from all around the world and look forward to getting away for a week,” Cyr said. “Riding isn’t just a leisure activity for the people who come to this, it’s a lifestyle. This is very much a lifestyle event.” Attendees will also celebrate their lifestyle with bike and stunt shows and ven-

Headline acts Social Distortion, Rob Zombie and Lynyrd Skynyrd will look to drown out the revving engines of bikers from across the world when they take the stage during Arizona Bike Week, which begins Wednesday. (Special to GSN) dors with biker apparel, parts and accessories. On the first night, the Handlebar Saloon will also feature live music courtesy of Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock Teen Foundation as 14 bands hit the stage for seven hours of rock. After the teens end their sets, the headline acts will The Power Yard will bring the action to Arizona Bike Week this year follow. with action sports spread across the entire week of festivities. “The bands rep- (Special to GSN) resent the classic old-school biker demographic and then While each of these performances are bands like Rob Zombie and Social Dis- noteworthy, this will be a rare sighting tortion get the next generation intro- for Rob Zombie fans as his appearance duced to the lifestyle of the biking com- at Arizona Bike Week will mark his first munity,” Cyr said. performance of the year.

“(Zombie) has been so busy making movies lately that he hasn’t had time to tour,” Cyr said. “If you’re a fan and you want to see him, this is your opportunity to see him anywhere in the western states.” Zombie’s version of “The Munsters” is slated for release later this year with Sheri Moon Zombie, Jeff Daniel Phillips, Daniel Roebuck, Richard Brake and Sylvester McCoy. Lynyrd Skynyrd takes the stage on Saturday. “We all said goodbye to Lynyrd Skynyrd for about a decade before Ronnie Van Zant stepped up and decided to do a tribute tour and recreated the music that we all fell in love with in the ’70s,” Cyr said. “That band is fraught with so many stories of tragedy that you’ve got to root for them. It’s reassuring to see that they’ve kept going and kept music alive. They are definitely a big biker favorite.” Whether fans attend for music, action sports or to enjoy the biker lifestyle, they will likely be surprised to see philanthropy at an event like this. Arizona Bike Week will feature charity rides across the state to benefit various causes. “The biker community is extremely philanthropic and charity rides are a big part of our event,” Cyr said. “The bikers are very soft-hearted people who will dig deeper into their pockets than any group you’ll ever meet.”

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Arizona Bike Week WHEN: TIMES VARY WEDNESDAY,

APRIL 6, TO SUNDAY, APRIL 10

WHERE: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601

N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. COST: Tickets start at $12 INFO: azbikeweek.com

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Even Blondie liked these meaty sandwiches

t’s a throwback to the 1930’s, and it’s just as crazy, delicious – and, admittedly, just as hard to eat today as it was back then. But boy, is it fun to build. I’m talking about the Dagwood Sandwich, an insanely layered ginormous sandwich of deli meats, cheeses, pickles and tomatoes named after that silly, bumbling Dagwood Bumstead from the comic strip Blondie, created by American cartoonist Chic Young nearly a century ago. Dagwood was the original foodie, I think. He was a chow-hound who would raid the refrigerator and devour everything in sight. As the comic strip evolved, so did Dagwood’s sandwiches. They just got bigger and more ridiculous, stacking crazy combinations like sardines, baked beans, onions and horseradish. Blondie became the widest read comic strip of its time, and now I’m wondering if part of the popularity was just to see what Dagwood was dishin’ up this time! While there is no real “official” Dagwood Sandwich, here’s a version that Blondie’s food-crazed hubby would love. I’m certain of it!

The Dagwood Sandwich (Serving: 1 sandwich)

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Ingredients: 1 ½ tablespoons of mayonnaise 1 ½ tablespoons of Dijon mustard 3 pieces of thin-sliced bread (like Dave’s Killer Organic Sprouted Whole Wheat Bread) 2 slices of deli ham 2 slices of roasted turkey 2 slices of salami 2 slices of sandwich size pepperoni 3 slices of fully cooked bacon, crisp 2 slices of cheddar cheese 2 slices of Swiss cheese 2 kosher dill pickle planks

2 quarter-inch slices of tomato 2 leaves of romaine, butter or red leaf lettuce, rinsed and patted dry 2 black or green olives 2 skewers Directions: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and mustard. In a toaster or in a nonstick pan, lightly toast 3 slices of bread. Place two of the three slices of bread on a cutting board and spread the top side of each with about 1/3 of the mustard-mayo mixture. Reserve 1/3 for later. Top each slice of bread with 2 slices of deli ham, 2 slices of roasted turkey, 2 slices of salami and 2 slices of sandwich pepperoni. Next, take 3 slices of bacon and cut or tear them in half. Arrange three pieces on top of each layer. Top one of the layers with 2 slices of cheddar cheese. Top the other layer with 2 slices of Swiss cheese. Add 2 dill pickle planks to the cheddar cheese layer. Then add 2 slices of tomato to the Swiss cheese layer. Place lettuce leaves on each layer. Spread the reserved 1/3 of the mustard-mayo mixture on one side of the third piece of bread. Place the bread, mayo-side down, on top of the tomato layer. Then put the entire tomato layer on top of the pickle layer. Insert 2 thin bamboo skewers into each diagonal half of the sandwich and then cut the sandwich in half diagonally. Pierce the skewers with a green or black olive to sit on top of the sandwich.

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PHILLIPS

Spencer 4 HIRE ROOFING Valley Wide Service

All Water Purification Systems Voted #1 Plumber 3 Years In A Row OVER 1,000 5-STAR REVIEWS

ROOFING LLC

480-446-7663

Bonded/Insured • ROC #223709

Family Owned and Operated 43 Years Experience in Arizona

FREE Estimates • Credit Cards OK www.spencer4hireroofing.com ROC#244850 | Insured | Bonded

480-405-7099

COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

Pool Service / Repair

623-873-1626

Juan Hernandez

Free Estimates Monday through Saturday

Pavers • Concrete • Water Features • Sprinkler Repair

PPebbleOcracking, O L Plaster R Epeeling, P ARebar IR showing, Pool Light out? I CAN HELP!

SPECIAL! $500 OFF COMPLETE REMODEL! 25 Years Experience • Dependable & Reliable

Call Juan at

480-720-3840 Not a licensed contractor.

Licensed 2006 ROC 223367 Bonded Insured

PhillipsRoofing.org PhillipsRoofing@cox.net

Place Your Advertisement Here. Call 480-898-6465 to advertise in MetroPhoenixJobs

GILBERT SUN NEWS | APRIL 3, 2022

Copper Springs

Celebrate Your Best Life.

At Copper Springs, we offer more than just a community, we offer all-inclusive independent retirement living. Designed exclusively for adults 55 and over, we take care of everything with one monthly price and no buy-in fee, so you can spend more time celebrating life’s high-five-able moments.

Making the Move Thursday, April 7 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Join local experts from Acacia Transitions and Paulsen Reissner and explore important topics about transitioning into retirement. Get advice on prepping your home for sale, downsizing, financial considerations, and the importance of health care directives. RSVP by April 6

Call today to RSVP or schedule a private tour!

480-719-7833

3303 East Gary Way  Gilbert, AZ 85234  CopperSpringsRetirement.com