Gilbert Sun News - 05.09.2021

GPS’ $16.6M to-do list

Riparian ed center eyed

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Sunday, May 9, 2021

Panel opposes Heritage And a 1 and a 2 District height exemption

BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

COMMUNITY......... 18 Gilbert man a student of “The Federalist Papers.”

BUSINESS................ 23

Gilbert company rachets up sustainability commitment.

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proposal to build a 68-foot-tall building that would exceed the Heritage District’s height restrictions by 13 feet was shot down last week.

The Planning Commission voted 6-1 Wednesday to recommend Town Council reject the Brundrett Family’s request to put a four-story multi-use building on three vacant parcels near the southwest corner of Gilbert Road and Page Avenue, near the Water Tower.

Council is scheduled to make the final decision May 18.

see HERITAGE page 8

Diana Rosnick was one of the directors last weekend as Yamaha Music Schools gave their first in-person concert. More than 300 students performed both days at Freestone Park in Gilbert.

(Pablo Robles/GSN Staff Photographer)

Injured Gilbert officer moved to rehab GSN NEWS STAFF

SPORTS...................... 24 Tariq Freeny is Mesquite’s big gun.

COMMUNITY....................................... 18 BUSINESS.............................................23 SPORTS.......................................24 PUZZLE.......................................26 CLASSIFIED.......................................... 27

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G

ilbert Police Officer Rico Aranda was moved from the ICU to rehab last week, just days after a deadly pursuit that left a Chandler officer dead.

Aranda suffered serious head injuries April 29 after a man in a stolen vehicle rammed a parked car that hit him. The suspect, who is in custody, also hit Chandler Officer Christopher Farrar, who later died at the hospital. His funeral was slated for yesterday, May 8, after the Gilbert Sun News’ deadline.

Aranda’s wife, Idalia Ontiveros, spoke briefly to the media last Wednesday.

SECTION COMING MAY 30TH!

Rico Aranda

“This is something that you’re not prepared for. Nobody really is,” said Ontiveros, standing in front of the Gilbert Police Department building. “I thank God every day that he is alive.

“He’s doing so good. I’m not a doctor myself but I can tell you I know my husband and he’s strong. He’s probably the strongest man I know.”

She said her husband was looking forward to returning to work and that Gilbert Police was like his second family. Ontiveros and Aranda are the parents of two sons, 2 and 8. They’ve been together for 10 years and married for four.

see ARANDA page 10

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

NEWS

3

Video of Highland students draws condemnation GSN NEWS STAFF

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cell-phone video of two white Highland High School students re-enacting in class the murder of George Floyd, a Black man, has caused outrage on social media – including comments from people saying they weren’t surprised it happened at the campus.

A woman named Mercedes recently posted the six-second clip on Twitter, which has garnered 1,420 retweets and 448 comments.

“This video was taken right in front of the only black girl in the class TODAY & happens to be my friend’s niece,” wrote Mercedes. “They’re re-enacting the murder of George Floyd! An apology won’t cut it!”

Mercedes did not respond to a request for an interview.

Floyd died May 25 after Minneapolis cop Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for 9.5 minutes while he was handcuffed laying facedown. Floyd was under arrest for allegedly using a fake $20 to buy cigarettes. His death ignited nationwide police brutality and racism for most of last summer.

A jury found Chavin, a white cop, guilty of Floyd’s death on April 20.

Many comments on Twitter suggested such behavior goes unchecked at the campus.

“I unfortunately go to this school and it’s really not that uncommon for kids to be like this,” a student wrote. “I’ve had people straight up call me the ‘n’ word to my face like it’s nothing and it’s repeating behavior that needs to be stopped.”

Wrote another; “This school has a serious racism problem, but it’s continually overlooked because of their high athletics programs.”

And a man wrote, “Fans sat behind my wife at a basketball game and joked about lynching my son while he played.”

While one person called for the teacher in the classroom to be fired, another said it was a substitute teacher overseeing the students and that the kids involved in the re-enactment “were suspended (and) the district is deciding whether or not to expel them.”

Gilbert Public School Districts would

This video showing two Highland High School students re-enacting the murder of George Floyd went viral last weekend, triggering strong criticism of the boys’ conduct and raising questions about the supervision that was going on inside the classroom. (Special to GSN) not say if the teacher was a substitute, the ages of the students, what disciplinary measures were taken and what is being done to prevent such incidents in the future.

Spokeswoman Dawn Antestenis released a district statement: “Highland High Administration received a report of an incident at the end of the school day Wednesday (April 28). A thorough investigation was conducted.

“All breaches of Gilbert Public Schools student code of conduct are investigated to their full extent and district policies and procedures are followed to deliver consequences.

“Gilbert Public Schools strives to create communities of inclusion and any act of racism is in direct opposition to the values that we hold as a school district.”

A number of people on Twitter also pointed to a sordid incident from the campus’ past.

In the early 2000s a white supremacist gang of football players at Highland called the Devil Dogs terrorized the community. The gang grabbed media attention after an especially brutal beating of another teenager that left him disfigured.

A girl also posted the video on her TikTok account.

“I go to a VERY racist high school,” wrote the girl, who encouraged people to spread the video; “where the admin brushes it under the rug, excuses it, punishes the kids that report it.”

GOT NEWS?

Contact Cecilia Chan at 480-898-5613 or cchan@timespublications.com

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NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

GPS plans $16.6M in summer upgrades

BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

G

ilbert Public Schools plans on $16.6 million worth of bond projects over the summer, which include enlarging the former Houston Elementary campus to accommodate an expected increase of students this fall.

The Governing Board in March voted to close Houston and relocate the popular Neely Traditional Academy to the campus.

“We have to expand Houston a little bit to handle the population going from about 300 students up to 800 students,” said Bonnie Betz, assistant superintendent of Business Services at last Tuesday’s board meeting.

Betz added the campus also was due for a number of other upgrades because of its age.

The $16.6 million includes $2.4 million for mechanic projects, such as the complete replacement of HVAC units at Islands, Meridian and Patterson elementary schools.

The bulk of the projects totaling $14 million are structural – such as $4.5 million in bathroom upgrades at Gilbert High School, Pioneer, Val Vista Lakes, Islands and Mesquite elementary schools and Mesquite Junior High.

Other structural projects include $968,000 for replacing gym bleachers at Desert Ridge and Mesquite high schools and Highland Junior High and expanding the band room at Gilbert Classical Academy for $90,000.

“We’re going to enter into what used to be the sewing lab just to give them an expansion more of a comprehensive high school-level space for their band and add some additional storage area,” said Albert Dutchover, Maintenance and Operations Department director.

Board member Lori Wood asked Dutchover to give details on the interior door hardware upgrades at Gilbert High because of the cost – $620,878.

“All the interior door hardware at Gilbert High School is out of ADA compliance,” Dutchover said. “They’re actually knobs.”

The district will spend $55,000 to replace aging stage curtains at severa; elementary schools.

(Special to GSN)

He said that according to the Americans with Disabilities Act, “if you can’t squeeze and grasp it, it has to be a single-level exit or entry point.”

Wood asked if he anticipated similar costs for the district’s other campuses.

“No, this is one of the few facilities that had this issue,” Dutchover said.

The high school also is getting a secured entry, along with Houston and Neely campuses for a total of $783,170.

Wood said it takes time to get used to the secured entries and that she didn’t know how she felt about putting it in the elementary grades.

“I understand that it’s hard to see us putting these things in place in our schools,” board member Jill Humpherys said. “But you know, Gilbert is not a small town anymore. In fact, we had a huge incident just a couple nights ago and at least one officer got killed and one got critically injured. So, even though we think of ourselves as a friendly small town we want to be sure we have those things in place to keep our students safe and it is unfortunate that we have to do that but I think we have waited plenty long to do it.”

The projects also included $55,000 for new stage curtains at eight campuses, including for Gilbert Elementary.

Wood asked if the curtains actually were used at the elementary campuses.

“I was just thinking, maybe just take them off if we don’t need them or use them,” she said.

Wood was told the elementary schools use the curtains for musicals and different types of performances.

“We use them quite often,” board member Sheila Uggetti said.

The district also plans on parking lot replacement and upgrades at three campuses for a total cost of roughly $1 million.

“Parking lot upgrades, bus lanes – that’s always a continuous item, continued maintenance, continued improvement for bus (and) parent traffic as well as pick-up and drop-off,” Dutchover said.

“With the anticipated move of Neely to Houston there’s a need to mitigate the parent drop-off traffic. We’ve gotten engineering involved that way we could best utilize space as well as get it get the clearest design as possible to help us relieve traffic off of Houston Road and create a safe environment for parent pick-up and drop-off.”

Dutchover said the campus’ parking will stay pretty much the way it is but the playground will move farther north and a drive lane created so parents could drop off their students, who can then enter the playground.

Other projects included building an exterior patio at Greenfield Junior High and the renovations of portables with paint and new siding at three campuses.

“Since we have so many portables, we do try to maintain them,” Dutchover said.

Wood said she would like to phase

out portables – especially given the extra costs and maintenance needed for them.

Superintendent Shane McCord said the district has done that over time.

“It just depends on what’s needed at a particular site,” he said. “If they’re not (needed) at a particular site, they’re put out of commission. They’re moved away, they’re gotten rid of. Or if we have one that is in good working order but we need it at another site, we’ll move it.

“It’s very expensive to move and set up a portable as well and so these are valuable type things that at the end of the day what they do with them when they do remodel them and refresh them, they make them look a lot better and they blend into that campus a lot more.”

He recalled that at one point half of Mesquite High’s parking lot was filled with portable classrooms and looked like a “mobile home park.”

“And, so we’ve been able to reduce that down and other portables around the district as well,” McCord said.

Dutchover listed a number of pending projects that didn’t have cost figures yet, such as implementing security cameras districtwide.

Board member Reed Carr wondered if any of the projects are eligible for adjacent ways funding – a levy districts can impose without voter approval.

Betz responded she believed there are but she would need to do more research.

“I’m not suggesting we look at it. I want to highlight that we have stayed true to the voters,” Carr said. “We’ve told the voters these are the types of things that we would be doing with the bond funds and I know there are others out there who take advantage and say, ‘we’ll keep the bond funds for this’ and then introduce an adjacent ways tax.

“I think there’s been at least four or five opportunities in the four and a half years that this board has been together that we could have done that and in my opinion, to the board’s credit, we have stayed true to our promises to the voters and not tried to, for lack of a better term, double dip in that area.”

Betz said McCord would not allow staff to bring that option to the board.

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

NEWS

Lawmakers target classroom ‘propaganda’

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

A

pproving a measure by a Mesa lawmaker, Republican lawmakers voted Wednesday to punish teachers who don’t present both sides of controversial science or events.

Some lawmakers said the move could force teachers to seek out and present contrary views on everything from climate change and slavery to the 9-11 terrorist attacks, the Holocaust – and even whether Joe Biden really won the election.

The measure, approved along party lines. requires that any “controversial issues’’ discussed in the classroom must be done “from diverse and contending perspectives without giving deference to any one perspective.’’

“While there are many outstanding teachers in our schools, there are a handful that try to teach students what to think instead of how to think,’’ said

Rep. Michelle Udall, R-Mesa. “Propaganda and one-sided political ideology should have no place in our classroom.”

She said there have been complaints by parents that their children are being taught things that some people do not believe to be true.

Much of what is in her amendment to SB 1532 is aimed at precluding instruction that one race, ethnic group or gender is “inherently morally or intellectually superior to another.’’

Udall’s measure also would bar teaching that any individual bears responsibility for actions committed by others of the same race, ethic group or sex.

“It simply prevents teaching our students that their race determines their character, treatment or worth,’’ she said.

“Biased, unbalanced teaching hurts children.’’

But Udall’s legislation contains no definition of what is “controversial’’ and, under her proposal, could not be presented as fact but instead would require

a teacher to provide an alternate view or face discipline.

Some lawmakers suggested that might only be defined in retrospective after a parent objects to something that already was taught.

And that lack of definition alarmed some legislators, who pointed out that any teacher who violates the law is subject to not just a $5,000 fine but would be forced to reimburse the school for any “misused monies.’’

Udall brushed aside some of the examples of what might land a teacher in trouble. For example, she said, a teacher would not have to present alternate theories about whether the earth is round.

She said an “accurate portrayal of historical events’’ would be permitted. And she said that “largely discredited’’ theories do not need to be presented as fact.

Rep. Athena Salman, D-Tempe, said there are those who believe there were positive aspects of slavery and that some

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slaves were treated better than others.

“Suppose that a teacher were to teach, and believed was an accurate portrayal, that all slavery was bad, that all masters were bad?’’ she asked.

“If the sources are well understood and if it’s well-cited, that would be considered an accurate portrayal,’’ Udall said. “If it’s not something that has been discredited, it would be considered an accurate portrayal.’’

And what of climate change, Salman said, where there is a small group of scientists who contend either it is not occurring or that humans play no role.

Does that, too, she asked, require equal time?

“If they’re working on controversial topics, they should teach them from diverse and contending perspectives without giving preference to either side and let students draw their own conclusion,’’ Udall responded.

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

CUSD building ‘sally-ports’ at elementary schools GSN NEWS STAFF

C

handler Unified School District is planning to spend nearly $1.5 million on boosting security measures at 10 elementary schools.

Concord General Contracting and Chasse Building Team have been awarded contracts to construct “sally-port” entrances at the Andersen, Auxier, Basha,

GOT NEWS?

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Carlson, Fulton, Haley, Hull, Humphrey, Patterson, and Riggs elementary campuses.

A sally-port is a type of security infrastructure most often associated with prisons. But district officials say the upcoming renovations don’t mean Chandler schools are getting barbed-wire fences or metal detectors.

“That is not what we are building,” said Associate Superintendent Frank Fletcher. “We are building a central point of access.”

Fletcher described sally-ports as a holding area in the school’s front lobby where visitors would be required to wait before receiving authorization to enter the campus.

The sally-ports are intended to improve how a school’s security personnel will check visitors in and out throughout the day.

Redesigning the schools to incorporate a sally-port layout will typically involve renovating and repurposing exist-

ing classroom or office space.

The proliferation of school shootings across the country in recent years has been pushing districts like CUSD to boost security measures by installing more cameras and redesigning entryways.

Not long after 20 children were killed during a mass shooting at Connecticut’s Sandy Hook Elementary in 2012, school districts in the surrounding area immediately began investing in building sally-port areas.

The name “sally-port” is a broad term that can have many different types of designs or uses.

Its origins date back to medieval times when castles were built with special entryways where troops could safely hide from enemy fire.

Sally-ports are perhaps most commonly used in prisons to safely move inmates from one secured location to another.

But this type of security measure has

also been seen in jewelry stores, where a gated system is used to restrict the entrances and exits of suspicious customers.

CUSD has spent the last few years spending capital dollars on more security features at schools across the district.

More than $2 million was spent last October on installing six additional cameras at each of nearly all of Chandler’s elementary schools. In 2011, the district used some bond money to provide each campus with a 12-camera surveillance system.

Last year, Weinberg Gifted Academy received a number of renovations that included a sally-port entrance for a construction cost of about $1.1 million.

The recent sally-ports will be funded with money CUSD earned through a $290-million bond initiative voters passed in 2019. The district promised voters that a significant portion of the bond money would be spent on making schools safer.

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

NEWS

Council gives preliminary nod to 2021-22 budget

BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

G

ilbert Town Council last week adopted a preliminary $988 million budget for the upcoming fiscal year that begins July 1.

Council also approved a $27.7-million tax levy to pay voter-approved bond debt. Both are scheduled for final adoption June 1. Council members Aimee Yentes and Lauren Hendrix voted against both.

“What you see is similar to a tip of the iceberg,” Town Manager Patrick Banger said. “There is much that is left on the cutting room floor by way of positions, equipment, various things we believe would add value to this community but we do not believe that we could responsibly pass that cost along.”

Yentes said she would be OK with the 46 new full-time positions requested in the budget if the Town would agree to look at opportunities to reduce employees.

She proposed re-reevaluating school resource officers, stating she wanted to make sure the Town wasn’t the only entity footing the bill for the positions. Gilbert currently has 13 SROs, which is increased to 14 in the preliminary budget.

Yentes also suggested the Town possibly sell Cactus Yards to a private operator, which is currently being staffed by 22 people. She added that the regional

park and Desert Sky Park are expanding and will need more staff.

And Yentes wanted to revisit the staffing for the Town’s Digital Government, which grew from eight employees in 2018-19 fiscal year to 14 the following fiscal year.

“This is an area which I just don’t believe that we require 14 people in that department,” Yentes said.

In the 2019-20 fiscal year, the digital department added two digital communications strategists and one digital media and marketing officer to the team and created three new positions, a digital media and marketing deputy director, a digital media and marketing senior officer and a data content strategist.

Yentes said she felt staff could do more streamlining and save taxpayers money.

She said just because the Town’s revenue stream came in strong, it was not the only metric of a health economy and she wanted to be extra careful in expanding government.

She cited underlying illness in the economy that was going to eventually come to a head, adding she heard on the radio that a third of people’s personal income in the last year came from a government check “so a lot of that spending we’ve been seeing in the economy and has made us red-hot is inflation will have to catch up with that.

“I would support this budget if there was a general direction to look at oth-

7

er areas to reduce staffing so we could bring on other ones I think that are very important,” Yentes said.

Over half the 46 new positions for next fiscal year are in public safety: 20 in the Police Department and eight in fire.

“We in Gilbert are always looking for opportunities to create efficiencies with how we deliver services and especially with the advent of so much new and emergent technology that is going to create even more efficient systems for us, automated systems,” Banger said.

Banger gave an example of new technology that the town will be implementing that over five years will reduce a dozen meter reader positions. Those employees would be retrained to work elsewhere in town government, he added.

“We’re always seeking out those opportunities, we’re always asking ourselves is there a better way to do that and that is why we utilize benchmarking other communities in the region as well as around the nation who are leaders in different areas that we want to understand how they maybe doing something differently that we could emulate to minimize that cost to our residents and impacts to inflation that impact all of our services and also supplies we buy on an annualized basis,” he continued.

He added the Town keeps an eye on delivering the best possible services it can to taxpayers “because at the end of the day that’s what they pay taxes for.”

“It permeates everything we do in how we build the budget,” Banger continued.

“The directors come together and present their budgets to one another, understanding that we all pull from the same bucket of money to deliver these services,” he said. “We’re all serving the same people and businesses in different ways and we have to balance what is most important to them.”

He said it’s the reason why Gilbert uses zero-based budgeting, one of the few municipalities in the region to do so.

“It’s an exhausted process where we document all of our spending, all of our needs and how we are doing things,” he said.

The preliminary budget is $5 million less than the current spending plan and includes $425 million in capital improvement projects, such as for street improvements, water system upgrades and parks and recreation.

Council also spent a good amount of time debating if the tax levy is a tax increase – an argument that plays out each year during budget talks.

The preliminary approval of a $27.7 million levy is higher than the $26 million imposed in the current budget.

Yentes said she would like for the proposed levy to keep at the current level.

Council next month is scheduled to vote on putting a $515 million Transportation & Infrastructure Bond on the November ballot.

the books for a long time.

It’s time to do something with it because we have a very special amenity out there and we need to show it off.”

Anderson said it was the right time to bring up the project because Arizona State University has Gilbert Council members last week discussed using space expressed an interest in in the Southeast Regional Library for an environmental partnering with the town to education center, given its adjacency to the Rip[arian Preserve. build it.

Anderson spearheaded (Special to GSN)

the creation of the urban wetland habitat and water recharge site when he was the planning and zoning director for Gilbert before he retired.

It was his idea to transform the wastewater treatment site to the regional attraction it is today with seven ponds, hiking trails and a recreational urban fishing lake.

The center is envisioned to house educational displays such as how water is recharged, classrooms, office space, ex-

Council eyes library for riparian center

BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

G

ilbert may put an education center and a town store at the Southeast Regional Library.

The library sits at the southeast corner of Guadalupe and Greenfield roads, adjacent to the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, a 110-acre park and wildlife preserve in Gilbert “People have been asking for this for years,” said Councilman Scott Anderson at last week’s study session. “It’s been on

see RIPARIAN page 15

8

NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

HERITAGE from page 1

“I don’t think I can support the height increase for this,” said Commissioner Brian Andersen, who moved for denial.

“The main reason is that 68 feet wedged in between two one-story buildings on each side on Gilbert Road, I don’t think it’s going to look appropriate.”

The Brundretts want to build the project on a 0.365-acre infill site between their furniture store and the Farmhouse Restaurant.

The project includes restaurants on the ground floor, two floors of offices and amenities like a rooftop bar.

Town staff is requiring that the building have a minimum of three trees for each second-floor balcony and a minimum of six trees on the fourth-floor rooftop. The trees can’t exceed 20 feet tall when mature.

Andersen, however, raised concerns with the trees. He wondered if they could rain down like spears on pedestrians during a strong monsoon wind.

Andersen also said that although there are two buildings exceeding the height limit – the town-owned university building at 68’8” and the 64-foot Collab building, they are both off the Gilbert corridor.

“For this particular lot, I know exactly where it is,” said Andersen, an architect who lives near downtown and spends a lot of time in the Heritage District.

“I drive by it every day and it’s a real narrow lot. To wedge in a 68-foot-tall building into that little lot, it’s really going to seem out of place.”

“I don’t see any reason why the applicant can not design another fantastic-looking building to fit in with the height requirement,” he said.

Three people spoke against the project at the meeting, noting the importance of adhering to the Redevelopment Plan and the Heritage District design guidelines, which govern development in the area.

Mary Ellen Fresquez, who served on

Planning Commission members generally liked the design of the Brundrett Family’s proposed building, but said it should be located elsewhere. (Town of Gilbert) the town’s Redevelopment Committee for 12 years, said both documents are relatively new and during the stakeholder meetings in forming them, she had never heard anyone arguing for buildings taller than 55 feet.

“Maintaining the sight line to the iconic Water Tower is very important,” Fresquez said.

She suggested the Town think outside of the box and do a land swap with the Brundretts and instead place the “beautiful” building at the northwest corner of Gilbert and Elliot roads, the entry point of the Heritage District.

Susan Pasternack, the HOA president of the nearby Grove neighborhood, said residents regularly walk and bike to the downtown and that the view of the Water Tower is important to them.

She said the proposed building would block the tower and is out of character for the area.

Architect Peter Koliopoulos, president of Circle West Architects, explained the additional height would house mechanical equipment on the roof.

In talking with the Brundretts, it was

decided to create something fun and unique that would allow people to enjoy the town’s views on the roof, Koliopoulos said.

“We believe this building will define Gilbert Road in a strong way,” he said, adding no business or pedestrian view of the Water Tower would be negatively impacted.

He also addressed previous concerns that the renderings did not truly show the impact of the building on the Water Tower.

He said the renderings are “exact and accurate” with the view and are not “enhanced or exaggerated.”

Chairman Carl Bloomfield asked if the 16-foot-tall floors could be shortened.

Koliopoulos responded the Brundretts want Class A office tenants, which determine the floor’s height.

Andersen said there are already Class A tenants in the Heritage District and they are housed in buildings that don’t go above 55 feet, such as Culinary Dropout, O.H.S.O. and Postino.

Koliopoulos said his firm is the architect for Culinary Dropout and that all the

businesses Andersen mentioned are in single-story buildings.

Even then, the height of Culinary Dropout is well above 18 feet, he added.

A mixed-use building where uses are stacked vertically requires enough clearance for the plumbing and mechanical hardware, such as ducts, Koliopoulos said.

The commissioners liked the building’s design but expressed concern with the proposed height.

“I think this building is awesome,” Commissioner Noah Mundt said. “It’s really cool.”

However, he didn’t see a compelling reason to justify allowing the building to go above the height limit and said he would be amiss if he did not follow the plans set for the Heritage District.

Commissioner Tyler Jones said he loved the design but it wasn’t the right time for the project.

Perhaps in 10 years, the height may not be a big ask but next to the adjacent uses there now, he didn’t see a reason to approve a taller building, he said.

Vice Chairman Jan Simon, who was the only one who voted against the denial, said it was a difficult decision for him.

“This property and design are quite incredible,” Simon said. “I think this development is warranted at this point. We are going to see height in the Heritage District.”

Bloomfield said he believed height increases can be done but gradually in the downtown and pointed to Building 313.

Building 313, which has a rooftop restaurant and bar, is the tallest building in the immediate area on Gilbert Road at 55 feet tall and three stories.

Bloomfield also wrestled with his decision, noting that both staff and the Redevelopment Committee, the gatekeeper and visionaries for the Heritage District, supported the proposal. The committee voted 3-2 in April to recommend approval of the increased height.

The latest breaking news and top local stories in Gilbert!

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

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NEWS

ARANDA from page 1

Ontiveros also sent her condolences to the Farrar family.

“I just want them to know that there’s nothing I can say or do to make it better but I want to let them know I have them in my prayers and there’s not a day that goes by that they’re not in my mind,” she said.

Ontiveros also thanked the community and the Gilbert Police Department for their support. Aranda was hired in 2018

by Gilbert Police.

She described her husband as a chatter box who is optimistic and always looks for the positive.

“He says, you know, it was unfortunate what happened, but he wouldn’t take back what he did it’s for the community and that’s what he signed up for,” she said.

Assistant Chief Mike Angstead said Aranda’s recovery “is trending upward now. He’s doing pretty good.”

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

But, he added, on the night of the incident when he and Ontiveros met with the doctor, “We didn’t know exactly how things were going to end.”

He thanked all the doctors at Chandler Regional Hospital, saying their work was nothing short of a miracle.

Sgt Matthew Reale, who was Aranda’s field training officer, spoke highly of the injured officer.

“For such a little person, Rico has an enormous personality that naturally drawn many officers to him,” said Reale, reading from a prepared statement.

“Rico is a model employee, he meets or exceeds expectation, is willing to take additional responsibilities. His paperwork and duties were always completed on time.

“As an officer Rico is a valiant protector of the Constitution, constantly studying law and its application to serve the community. While in uniform Rico is an

officer his peers wanted to see on scene.

“Rico was adamant that he responded to all the calls in his district. He didn’t want anyone to work more because of him. He was adamant that he carried extra load because he could, because he was capable. He was incredibly motivated, an inquisitive officer that did his best to be a better officer, a better human being at the end of every day.”

Reale described Aranda as someone who likes to laugh and make others laugh, adding “he’s humbled enough to admit when he doesn’t know, courageous enough to ask for help.

“I spend a lot of time with Rico, getting to know him the last two years since he started with us. We talked about anything where I learned that Rico is a loving father and husband.”

To sum up his friend, Reale recalled receiving a phone call from Aranda, who was in the hospital, and the two spoke

for the first time since the incident.

“There no words to express the relief I heard in hearing his voice,” Reale said.

“He told me about his visitors, how Chief (Michael) Soelberg came to visit him.

“Chief Soelberg expressed gratitude with Rico’s sacrifice and explained that Rico’s career took a difficult path that is rare in our profession and told him there was no shame if he retired after this incident. Rico looked the chief in the eye and stated, ‘Nah, dog. I’m gonna be chief one day.’”

Officer Steve Gilbert, president of the Gilbert Police Leadership Association, has set up a GoFundMe for Aranda for medical expenses. Gilbert didn’t know Aranda well but said the officer was well respected in the department.

The GoFundMe site has a goal to raise $100,000. As of Thursday, it raised $101,606.

To donate: gofund.me/afda31c1

As Altland began to yield, he started shooting at the deputy’s vehicle, according to police.

Altland then fled north on State Route 87, reaching speeds of over 100 mph before crashing through a gate at Chandler Municipal Airport, where he drove onto the runway, police said.

He left the airport and drove the wrong way on surface streets and then on the Loop 202 Santan Freeway as Chandler and Gilbert police, Arizona Department of Public Safety troopers and PCSO gave chase Gilbert Police were alerted to the pursuit at 10:35 p.m.

Altland then crashed his vehicle on the northern embankment of the 202 west of Val Vista Drive and fled on foot.

He entered the maintenance area of the San Tan Ford dealership at the Motorplex Loop and was confronted by a janitorial staff.

Two custodians observed Altland with a handgun.

Police said Altland threatened the dealership manager, “stating he had a gun and would shoot him,” police said.

The manager followed Altland out to a vehicle bay area and was told to turn off the lights.

The manager responded he could not do so and fled from the service bay.

Meanwhile law enforcement had surrounded the building.

Altland stole a vehicle and crashed through a closed bay door.

“The suspect sped out of the service bay area, veering and accelerating directly towards one group of officers who feared for their lives and discharged their firearms,” the police documents read. “The suspect did not stop and continued fleeing through the parking lot and drove directly toward” Farrar, fatally striking him.

Altland continued what police called “an intentional attack,” driving toward other officers in the parking lot, who fired their weapons at him.

Altland next struck another officer and then slammed his car into a parked vehicle, directly injuring Aranda who was near it, police said.

Police reported six people in total were injured by the suspect, including the dealership manager.

According to Gilbert Police, Pinal County deputies were expected to submit charges related to its involvement with the initial traffic stop and attempted murder of an officer and Chandler Police will be submitting charges related to the suspect entering the airport.

Arrest report describes harrowing encounter

BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

A

Tolleson man accused of ramming a stolen car into a group of officers, killing Chandler Officer Christoper Farrar and severely injuring a Gillbert officer, remains in jail on a $3-million cash bail.

Jonathon J. Altland, Jr., 25, faces a first-degree murder charge of Chandler Officer Christopher Farrar, 50. A preliminary hearing was set for May 10.

Gilbert Officer Rico Aranda suffered head injuries during the April 29 violent confrontation but was showing signs of improvement, according to Gilbert Police.

“We are encouraged by Gilbert Police Officer Rico Aranda’s recovery progress,” Gilbert Police said May 3. “We are happy to report that he is responding well to treatment and we expect him to be transferred within a couple days out of ICU and into neurological treatment and recovery.”

Altland worked for FPS Civil LLC, according to police documents. Very little detail about Altland was included in the report.

His record appears limited to several traffic violations, including a stop-sign civil infraction in January. and in October 2020, he was

Jonathan J. Altland, Jr. cited for reckless driving and driving over 85 mph, according to Maricopa County Justice Courts. The latter, a criminal case, was adjudicated.

Altland purchased his house in Tolleson with a girlfriend in 2019, according to county property records.

The April 29 incident began after Pinal County Sheriff’s deputies attempted to stop Altland for speeding in a yellow pickup truck.

It was later determined the pickup was stolen.

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

NEWS

11

Officer’s death ‘a big loss for our community’

BY KEVIN REAGAN GSN Staff Writer

T

wo days after Chandler Police Officer Christopher Farrar was killed by a wanted fugitive, hundreds of mourners assembled outside Compass Christian Church to remember a friend who was described as a hero, warrior and all-around good guy.

Plenty of candles were lit and tears were shed as friends of Officer Farrar gathered on May 1 to memorialize his 18 years of service to the Chandler community.

More tears likely also were shed Saturday, May 8, as the officer was laid to rest after a memorial service at Compass Christian, which occurred after the Gilbert Sun News’ deadline.

Officer Farrar, 50, died the evening of April 29 after he was run over by 25-year-old Jonathan Atland at the end of a chaotic car chase that began in Eloy and ended in Gilbert.

Gilbert Officer Rico Aranda was severely injured when he was struck by a parked car Atland had hit at San Tan Ford on Val Vista Drive near the Loop 202 Santan Freeway. At least four state troopers and a custodian also were slightly injured before Atland was taken into custody.

Mourners on May 1 remarked on the cruel irony that Officer Farrar had not been expected to work on the night of his death.

Chandler Police Detective Tom Schuhrke said Officer Farrar, who had recently been assigned to the Chandler Police K9 United, was working a relief shift for an absent employee.

It was something Officer Farrar often did because it was his nature to serve the department whenever help was needed.

“He didn’t have to be there that night,” Schuhrke noted.

Officer Farrar’s kind, generous nature was a recurring theme among all the anecdotes that were shared by the large crowd of grieving officers and civilians.

It also was mentioned within hours after his death when Chandler Police Chief Sean Duggan held a pre-dawn news con-

Officer Christopher Farrar ference April 30 to announce the loss of his man.

“Every day he came to work, he made a difference,” an emotional Duggan said.

“In the course of 18 years, he touched many lives.

“So I just ask that you keep Chris’ family in your prayers and just take a moment and remember and be mindful of the brave men and women who are out there daily helping to keep our community safe.”

Officer Farrar was described as a dedicated public servant and his work was acknowledged in 2010 after his agency honored him with its “Community Service Award.”

He held multiple positions throughout the department during his career, including the patrol division and bicycle team prior to his assignment to the K9 unit – a job those who knew him said he had long sought.

“Christopher received numerous commendations and accolades from community members, business owners, co-workers, and supervisors during his career,” the department said in a release.

“He was a recipient of the Medal of Honor in 2004, the Community Service Award in 2009, the Spotlight Award in 2019, and a four-time recipient of the

Police and civilians mourned the loss of Officer Christopher Farrar on May 1 at a memorial service at a Chandler church. (Pablo Robles/GSN Staff Photographer)

Lifesaving Award.”

Noting that the slain officer is survived by his mother and father, brother, sister, daughter, two sons and grandchild, the department release also stated, “He was a son, brother, father, uncle, grandfather and dedicated police officer.”

Attendees at the May 1 memorial recalled Officer Farrar’s willingness to volunteer for church activities or to offer his mentorship to aspiring police officers.

He was always full of energy, Schuhrke said, and seemed to embody the eagerness of a manic cartoon character.

“He was like Speedy Gonzales,” Schuhrke said. “There were no slow speeds for him – 100 miles an hour all the time.”

“It’s a big loss for our department,” Schuhrke added. “It’s a big loss for our community.”

Officer Kyle Liggitt credited Officer Farrar with making him a better police officer by always offering helpful advice and support.

Officer Farrar was quick to share his policing experiences, Liggitt said, or take a moment to check in with a rookie officer who had just joined the force.

“He had just this ability to find newer,

younger officers and to just give them wisdom and to make them better officers,” Liggitt added.

Everyone in the department has spent the last few days asking lots of “what if” questions, Liggitt said, and contemplating whether Officer Farrar’s life could have been saved if different steps were taken on the night of the incident.

“All of us at this department are hurting,” the officer said. “But we also know that, unfortunately, this is part of our job.”

The group of mourners included members of law enforcement from various agencies, church leaders and elected officials who wanted to publicly express their support for the officer’s family.

Chandler Vice Mayor Mark Stewart tried to hold back tears as he emotionally conveyed his sympathy for everyone who will miss Officer Farrar.

“We know Chris is a hero and his name needs to be celebrated,” Stewart said.

“He is a true hero.”

Friends described Officer Farrar as having an endearing curiosity for spirituality and would often lean on his faith

see OFFICER page 17

12

NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

Planning panel split on Finley Farms plan

BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

A

developer’s proposal to build 21 two-story homes on a 3.54-acre infill lot near the southwest corner of Greenfield and Elliot roads left the Planning Commission divided last week.

The developer of the proposed Cottage Lane, which is surrounded by homes in the Finley Farms community, is seeking to increase the land’s density from 3.5-5 residential units per acre to 5-8 dwelling units per acre for the project.

“Twenty-one homes seem to me to be an awful lot,” Vice Chairman Jan Simon said at Wednesday’s study session. “My initial thought is they packed way too many homes in a small space. I feel this is a stretch for me. I have serious heartburn with the number of homes on the spot.”

Residents gave input at two neighborhood meetings, Principal Planner Amy Temes said.

She said concerns included loss of pri-

vacy, increased traffic and density. Eighteen single-story homes in the Manor at Finley Farms surround the site.

Temes said the developer has offered to plant trees in the back and side yards and limit the number of windows that face into the neighbors’ backyards. The developer also is willing to raise the existing block wall of neighboring homes to give more privacy.

Temes added that staff determined the 21 lots would not increase traffic to require a study.

Commissioner William Fay said he’s not concerned with the homes being two stories high because the developer is allowed that under the current zoning nor is he concerned with the traffic from 21 homes.

“It comes down to density,” he said.

“To me, it’s packed in and not compatible with the surrounding neighborhood.”

Commissioner Noah Mundt also was concerned with the density and asked if it was possible to look for more ways to

buffer the proposed homes from existing ones.

“It’s too dense and not the right product for the site,” Commissioner Tyler Jones said. “It’s too crammed in my opinion.”

Commissioner Brian Andersen said he didn’t have an issue with the density, saying “it’s only 21 homes.”

He said the developer could have packed more homes on the site but was trying to be sensitive to neighbors.

Commissioner David Blaser was also fine with the proposed density.

“These small parcels, what else can you do with these small parcels,” he said, adding he was concerned with the ratio in that three existing homes back up to one lot in the proposed subdivision.

“They’ve done a great job trying to get as many lots as to make sense on the property,” Chairman Carl Bloomfield said.

“I like the product and I think they coordinated with the neighbors.”

He said land costs are much higher now than when the Finley Farms community

was built 20 years ago and the proposed development has to be economically feasible for the developer.

It was unclear when the developer’s request for a rezone and General Plan amendment will come to the Commission for a formal vote.

The Commission also heard a presentation of the Lamb Lane development, which has changed significantly.

Because of opposition from the adjacent Ashland Ranch neighborhood, the developer redesigned the project proposed at Ray Road and Val Vista Drive.

Instead of the original 41 multi-family rental units, the developer is now proposing to build 18 one- and two-story single-family homes on the 5 acres. The community would be gated and have two amenity areas, according to senior planner Stephanie Bubenheim.

She said two neighborhood meeting were held in February to present the

see PLANNING page 15

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

NEWS

Students’ clothing designs on display GSN NEWS STAFF

T

he work of some young fashion designers from the East Valley Institute of Technology is being showcased all month at Scottsdale Fashion Square.

Laundry Lab, a student brand within EVIT’s Fashion Design & Merchandising program, is displaying Metamorphx on the second floor of the mall’s newly renovated luxury wing, across the walkway from Macy’s.

Laundry Lab is a student-led, multi-disciplinary design collective in the fashion and design merchandising program at EVIT. The collective is advised by EVIT fashion instructor Landry Low, an alumna of the EVIT fashion program and the prestigious Pratt Institute design school in New York.

“Equal parts fashion collection and visual merchandising installation, Metamorphx is a reflection on students’ ex-

windows but soon EVIT’s fashion program will be launching a new website where viewers can experience the exhibit in a more immersive way.

The website will also This unique outfit by EVIT fashion include an exThis pair of shoes is one of the students is one of many on display hibition film items by EVIT fashin design students. at Scottsdale Fashion Center. produced in (Courtesy of DEVIT) (Courtesy of EVIT) collaboration with EVIT’s periences, obstacles and achievements Video Production program that serves as during the past year and a half of so- both a living “look book” and a detailed cial-distancing, quarantining and navi- walk-through of the exhibition and colgating interactions remotely,” Low said. lection.

The exhibition at Scottsdale Fashion The website will also have an accomSquare is designed to be viewed from panying online-only pop-up shop of one-

got skin?

of-a-kind garments and accessories made by the students. For updates, follow @ LaundryLab_ on Instagram.

With a focus on collaboration, divergent thinking, communication and problem-solving, EVIT’s two-year fashion design and merchandising program allows high school juniors and seniors to explore college and career opportunities in a creative industry.

“This experimental studio environment empowers students to envision, create and pursue a path of passionate productivity,” Low said. “Students successfully complete their EVIT experience with industry credentials, college credit and hands-on technical training, allowing them to become competitive in the global workforce.”

To learn more about the EVIT Fashion Design & Merchandising program: evit. com/fashion.

EVIT is currently enrolling for the 2021-22 school year. Enroll at evit.com/ enroll

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

RIPARIAN from page 7

hibit space and restrooms, according to John Kennedy, Recreation and Programming manager.

Survey feedback from visitors on programming interests for the riparian included having food sales, bird programs and guided tours.

Kennedy said the center would be comparable with the Environmental Education Center at Veteran’s Oasis Park in Chandler, Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center in Phoenix and the White Tank Branch Library and Nature Center in Waddell.

He presented three possible locations for the riparian education center: the library, near the observatory and adjacent to a ramada.

Costs figures also were provided: $6.5 million for a free-standing Riparian Education Center and $130,000 for the town store and visitor center. Kenney noted the figures are out of date.

“This has been on the books for a lot longer than any of us who are involved with this,” he said.

NEWS

Councilwoman Kathy Tilque liked the idea of putting the education center inside the library, stating its inventory is continuing to shrink.

Councilman Scott September and Vice Mayor Yung Koprowski also voiced support for the library location because it would be cheaper than building a free-standing facility.

Anderson agreed that the heavily used library had a lot of “wasted space” and could house the center along with a café and a visitor center.

“The construction could include both a café and a store,” Anderson later said. “The store would be ideal to sell items we now offer online and the café could take advantage of views to the lake.”

The 66,000-square-foot library is adjacent to the fishing lake.

“You should be proud of everything you’ve created out there,” said Mayor Brigette Peterson to Anderson. “I’d like to see the library used as much as it can and, like Kathy said, the library inventory is shrinking” because a lot of things are

going online.

Gilbert owns the library building, land and contents at Southeast Regional Library and contracts with the Maricopa County Library District to operate it.

“While our digital collection has been growing, this has not reduced our physical collection,” said spokeswoman Samantha Mears of the Maricopa County Library District in an email. “We still have a large selection of physical materials at Southeast Regional Library and have not significantly reduced these materials in any way.”

Parks and Recreation Director Robert Carmona said the department will research all three locations and create updated cost models for all of the presented options.

“The department will also continue to work with community partners as we envision what a Riparian Education Center could look like in all three spaces,” he said in an email. “Our intent is to return to Council at a later date with a more defined programming and operations

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15

scope.”

Funding mechanisms for the project included re-prioritizing Gilbert’s hotel bed tax and partnerships and grants.

Anderson later said he was unsure of the timeline for the project, but did not want to see it languish on the town’s fiveyear capital spending plan.

“The schedule will likely depend on if we do a free-standing building or add to the library building,” he said.

PLANNING from page 12

new project and Ashland Ranch residents are now in support.

“I really like the direction the project is taking,” Bloomfield said. “It’s a testimony to the neighbors.”

Jones called the redesign an “awesome case study” and kudos to the applicant, staff and neighbors to find a solution.

Fay noted there are fewer amenities with the new redesign but the project passes muster and “if it came with an ask today, I would support it.”

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NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

Perry student dies by suicide after long struggle

GSN NEWS STAFF

A

Perry High School student died by suicide May 2 after months of struggling with mental health problems and multiple suicide attempts.

Zyon Anderson, 16, who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, was to be laid to rest yesterday, May 8..

He was one of two area teens who took their life within 48 hours. The other was a freshman girl at Chaparral High in Scottsdale.

Zyon’s mother, Nailah Hendrickson, posted on gofundme.com that Zyon’s death came after a nearly whole year of continuous treatment for depression.

“My baby fought hard and I was there trying to get him help every step of the way -- but he wasn’t long for this world,” Hendrickson wrote in a statement. “Zyon will be greatly missed by his family and friends.”

Hendrickson has had a long and frustrating battle to save Zyon.

She described how her son’s mood and demeanor had begun to change shortly after the pandemic began and the schools started to close.

Zyon had begun to withdraw from his family, the mother recalled, and lost interest in activities that used to bring him joy.

After a couple suicide attempts, Zyon underwent extensive therapy and counseling while his mother began to monitor his daily movements.

“This has been emotionally, financially, and mentally devastating,” Hendrickson said last month. “This caught us by surprise and it’s not something we had planned for.”

The mother lamented the lack of sup-

Perry High’s senior football quarterback even appeared in a series of public service announcements last year, urging classmates to seek help if they’re contemplating suicide.

Experts say the mental health crisis that’s been affecting adolescents has only been exacerbated in recent months due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Recent national studies show depression diagnoses increased Perry High students mourned the loss of sophomore by 83 percent shortly after the Zyon Anderson, who died by suicide last weekend. His pandemic began last March and the rate of self-harm incidents organs helped save the lives of six people. (Facebook) among teens nearly doubled. notMykid, an Arizona-based port she felt for her family during Zyon’s nonprofit that aims to reduce teen suimental health crisis. Hendrickson looked cide, has seen a spike in demand for for parent groups that could offer advice counseling services throughout the panon how to handle her son’s illness, yet no demic from adolescents suffering from depression and drug addiction. one could tell where to find them.

“The shutdowns in response to When she attempted to form a parent group at Perry High to help students re- COVID-19 created a lot of social disconintegrate back into the classroom, Hen- nection that has amplified the struggles drickson said her plans were met with many young people already face with resistance from other parents and the regard to mental health challenges,” said Shane Watson, a spokesperson for notwhole idea fell apart.

“It seems that Arizona is not really set Mykid.

Teens’ entire support systems were up for the crisis that happened,” Hendrickson added. “It’s a retirement state often interrupted by the pandemic, Watand so the mental health care for adoles- son added, and many have struggled to find alternative coping mechanisms for cents is not really a robust system.”

Zyon is the latest of more than 50 East their anxiety.

According to his family, Zyon didn’t Valley teens who have died by suicide adapt well to the pandemic’s self-isolasince 2018.

School districts and nonprofits have tion habits and struggled to find distracbeen attempting to reverse the troubling tions from his inner thoughts.

His friends and classmates reacted trend by adding more on-campus resources and improving social-emotional with shock and heartbreak over his sudden passing. Many of them assembled education.

outside the hospital on the night of his death, praying he might survive the suicide attempt.

Bridget Pitts, one of Zyon’s classmates, hopes the teenager’s death might spur local schools to be more accepting of students struggling with depression and anxiety.

“Chandler has a lot of different students struggling with different health issues,” Pitts said. “I just wish our schools would be more open to talking about mental health every day, rather than when something as horrible as this happens.”

Perry High and Payne Junior High provided additional counseling services for students struggling with the news of Zyon’s death. Zyon had attended Payne and had many friends from that school.

As many as 60 Payne students had sought to use the school’s mindfulness room and one parent texted, “There are so many kids hurting right now. It’s so awful.”

Suicide awareness is not just for parents but for everyone, including teens.

Warning signs include: noticeable changes in eating or sleeping habits, unexplained and severe rebelliousness, withdrawal, violent, or rebellious behavior, drastic personality change, including truancy, vandalism and promiscuity, talk of suicide, agitation or distress, deteriorating grades and giving away possessions.

Things to do: offer help, don’t ignore talk of suicide, seek professional help, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or the Teen Lifeline at 602-248-8336. For the Crisis Text Line: text HOME to 741741.

from the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport – was sold on April 8 for $4.75 million.

The buyer: George Archos, CEO of Chicago-based Verano Holdings.

On his LinkedIn page, Archos says he has “Extensive expertise and proven results in medical marijuana business operations throughout the country, hav-

“Verano Holdings, a Chicago weed firm worth roughly $3 billion, was sued (March 8) in federal court as part of a sweeping racketeering complaint that accuses the company of illegally trafficking marijuana from Illinois to Arkansas.”

Pot baron buys big warehouse near airport

BY TOM SCANLON GSN Staff Writer

H

ow valuable is industrial development in southeast Mesa?

According to commercial real estate tracker Vizzda, a warehouse on 2.4 acres at 5405 S. Power Road – 2 miles

ing developed 10 facilities and brought them to profitability in record time. CEO of state-licensed cultivation, processing and/or dispensary facilities in Illinois, Maryland and Nevada, as well as numerous licenses currently in active development in multiple states and Puerto Rico.”

According to the Chicago Sun Times,

see POT page 17

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

OFFICER from page 11

to get through the grueling work of a cop.

Pastor Brian Jobe said Officer Farrar’s sudden death has struck a “brutal blow” on his church community and offered the services of his church’s counselors to mourners who may be struggling with their grief.

Compass Church additionally set up a memorial in their courtyard that allowed mourners to drop off flowers or

to write notes to the fallen officer.

Tim Kennedy said he met Officer Farrar at Compass Church a couple years ago and quickly got to know the officer by going on a ride-along with him around Chandler.

Officer Farrar loved to share his policing work with members of the public, he said, and demonstrating what the job really entailed. But beyond policing, Officer Farrar seemed the proudest while

“Largely discredited arguments don’t need to be presented as fact,’’ she said.

Rep. Frank Carroll, R-Sun City West, said he sees the legislation as simply an extension of existing law, which declares that parents have a right to direct the education of their minor child “without obstruction or interference from this state.’’

Even the method that Udall used to bring the issue to the full House for a vote was itself controversial.

Rather than going through the full

process, which would have guaranteed at least one public hearing, she attached it to a semi-related measure, which would make it illegal for teachers to use school resources to “organize, plan or execute any activity that impedes or prevents a public school from operating for any period of time.’’

The now-amended version of SB 1532 now returns the bill to the Senate – which approved it without that language. And it, like the House, can approve it without a public hearing.

TEACHERS from page 5

NEWS

praising the accomplishments of his family.

“Chris loved his mom and dad,” Kennedy said. “He talked about them all the time.”

A fundraising effort has been launched for Officer Farrar’s family by The 100 Club, which helps the families of officers killed in the line of duty.

It can be reached at 100club.org/donate.

POT from page 16

“The suit comes just weeks after Verano began trading publicly in Canada with a valuation of nearly $3 billion, making it one of the biggest weed firms in the U.S.,” it reported.

Archos did not immediately return a phone call from the Tribune asking for details on his purchase.

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COMMUNITY

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

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Gilbert man to discuss ‘Federalist Papers’

BY SRIANTHI PERERA GSN Contributor

T

he pandemic afforded most people time to plant backyard gardens, bake goodies and engage in long-postponed do-it-yourself home projects.

Retired Gilbert travel agent Barry Jackson used his to study “The Federalist Papers.”

The historical documents are a series of 85 essays written by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay and James Madison between October 1787 and May 1788.

Jackson, who holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from California State University/Fullerton and a has a thirst for history, fished out a book long in his possession.

“All of a sudden, I had no hockey or basketball to watch. I had this book since college, about 50 years ago; I decided

to get it out and read it,” said Jackson, 79.

“The Federalist Papers” is not idle reading while brewing coffee: the essays run into nearly 500 pages.

“I read all 85 papers, I read all 85 papers again and I made four pages of notes and just really found comfort,” he said. “I went back and read them again and again, I have underlines, notes in the margin, things like that.”

“The papers are important because they are timeless in their wisdom and insight,” Jackson said.

“The writers anticipated many of the problems that plague America today.”

With this new grasp of the Barry Jackson holds his copy of the book containing The Federalist Papers, which, he said, is relevant to essays, Jackson holds workthe day. (Courtesy of Barry Jackson) shops. The next one is scheduled

10:30 a.m. to noon next Saturday, May 15 at HD SOUTH at Elliot and Gilbert roads, Gilbert. The presentation is free, but registration is required.

“The Federalist Papers” were written to urge New Yorkers to ratify the proposed Constitution. The essays were published anonymously under the pen name “Publius” in various New York state newspapers of the time.

“New York was very important in getting the constitution passed. They needed ratification in nine out of the 13 states. The concern was that however New York went, they may call three or four other states with them and defeat it,” said Jackson, “The governor of New York at the time, George Clinton, was not a big fan of the constitution, so Hamilton felt that these papers needed to be written.”

of 18,000 ASU students who received their degrees.

That total was an 8 percent increase from spring 2020 – including more than 5,200 ASU Online students, a 24 percent increase over last May. Of the overall student total, nearly 12,200 are undergraduates and more than 5,500 are graduate students. Nearly 6,900 students graduated with honors, the most ever for an individual class and a 5 percent increase over last spring.

And unlike last spring, when everything shifted remote, this time colleges will host a variety of in-person celebrations in addition to their virtual convocations.

Azar earned her bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from ASU’s School of Life Sciences in The College of Liberal

Arts and Sciences.

Azar continued taking bioethics courses and last fall applied for the Arizona Legislative and Government Internship Program, which provides internships at a state agency, the Legislature, the governor’s office or the Arizona Supreme Court.

To her surprise, she was selected and served as the lead intern for the Republican House Caucus since January.

“I decided to apply because I think hands-on work is really important,” Azar said. “For me to transition from biology and taking labs, to more of the government/politics route, was nice for me to be able to work hands-on in the field.”

Azar works with the education and

see FEDERALIST page 20

New ASU grad sets sights on law, science GSN NEWS STAFF

I

n 2018, Natalie Azar started her journey at Arizona State University with an interest in pursuing a career in dentistry but over the last four years has adjusted her vision to include a political dimension.

After taking a course on bioethics, she found herself becoming increasingly interested in biology law and policy.

“That course really opened my mind to a new side of biology and medical professions,” Azar said. “I found it really important to educate patients on their rights.

“Studying chemistry and biology, my major has always directed me to going into the medical profession and the more technical aspect of it. But that class

Natalie Azar really opened my eyes to a new side of it and really got me interested in law.”

Last week, the Gilbert resident was one

see GRAD page 20

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

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Navy salutes Gilbert sailor for job well done GSN NEWS STAFF

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Gilbert native recently was named Senior Sailor of the Quarter aboard the USS Constitution.

Master-at-Arms 1st Class Richard Hagerty received the honor for exemplifying “outstanding dedication to duty and superior performance by going above and beyond” his job, the U.S. Navy said.

“It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation,” said Hagerty.

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The Constitution was undefeated in battle and captured 33 opponents.

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GRAD from page 18

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

the health and human services committees for the House majority, attending stakeholder meetings, making agendas, setting meetings and researching upcoming bills.

Azar was also involved with ASU’s Society for Women in STEM and the Rotaract Club.

“ASU was the right school for me because it’s just such a diverse environment,” she said. “There are so many different people you can meet and learn from, so many different teachers that have come from all over the place that you can learn from. There are a lot of resources that you can utilize when

going to ASU.” She recalled transitioning from predental to politics was a challenge.

“Even before attending ASU, I always thought I wanted to go into dentistry,” Azar said. “I considered switching my major to something in the law field because I thought my biology major wouldn’t prepare me for anything.

“Now I realize it prepared me so much and I’ve learned so much through my major and gained so many skills that I would have never gotten if I had taken a political science or economics major.

I’m really glad that I took the biology major.”

For incoming freshmen, Azar offers this advice: “Take advantage of all the academic resources ASU offers. I used the writing center, the tutoring center and the career center. Even just applying for this internship, I went to so many meetings to review my resume and do mock interviews.

“I’ve done pre-law advising, prehealth advising and I talked regularly to my academic adviser. There’s a lot of resources that ASU offers to students, so take advantage of it.”

Azar plans to take a year off and “would love to work somewhere in the field, maybe as a legal assistant, just to

really learn and have that knowledge going into law school.”

“I also think it’s great to just have professional experience and take some time off to really appreciate going back to school. I’ve started studying for the LSAT, so my plan is to take the LSAT and start applying to law schools.

“In 10 years I would definitely love to graduate from law school,” she added.

“I’m not sure exactly what field I would like to go into, but I just like to be able to mentor the incoming students because I’ve been mentored through this experience and I’d love to be able to give back to my community.”

Jackson believes the papers are relevant in this day.

“Those men anticipated a number of contemporary issues. There is one paper where they talk about the safety of the constitution and how state leaders may make invasions of it because of some temporary situation.

“When I read that, all I could think of is the pandemic and a lot of our leaders in the last year-and-a-half have gone too far. They have used the pandemic as a vehicle for just flexing their political muscle,” he said. “And I think the writer of that paper anticipated things like this. But he also said that it wasn’t

going to work because the people were too smart.”

Jackson thinks that anyone interested in history and contemporary politics, of any age, would find his presentation useful.

He presented to the Queen Creek Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution last October and is due to also present to the DAR’s Apache Junction chapter in September. He’s planning to visit schools but is held back due to the pandemic.

The talks are interactive.

“I want my presentation to be like a classroom, with audience participation. I will ask questions to let the group members share their knowledge,” he said.

Jackson has lived in Gilbert 19 years and participated in the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce program, Gilbert Leadership Class XIII.

He has traveled extensively in the Caribbean islands and said a day trip to Nevis was especially noteworthy because it’s where Alexander Hamilton was born. His home is no longer there, but there’s a plaque where it used to be.

During the pandemic, when he began reading the essays, Jackson said he also made time to watch old movies and tv series.

“I watched 30 episodes of ‘The Odd Couple,’ a show from the 60s and 70s.

So, I was putting my time between James Madison and Oscar Madison,” he said.

When asked who entertained him more, Jackson replied “It was pretty much a draw.”

To attend Barry Jackson’s presentation on The Federalist Papers on May 15, register at hdsouth.org. If you would like Jackson to present to a group, email him at bdjackson999@cox.net.

FEDERALIST from page 18

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

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Hospice nurses brought families together

BY LIN SUE COONEY GSN Guest Writer

W

hen nurse Gina Day showed up at Golden Heritage Assisted Living in Scottsdale to care for Joan Cullen, she noticed right away that her sweet patient’s hair had been set and styled for a special occasion: her 91st birthday party.

Her immediate response was to tell Joan how pretty she looked.

That’s because Gina checks her patient’s disposition as closely as her blood pressure. Nurses do so much more than care for physical symptoms. The truly remarkable ones know how to nurture people’s hearts too. For Gina and other Hospice of the Valley nurses, lifting patients’ spirits is an essential part of providing compassionate care.

“It’s a very sacred time of life to be with a family and a patient,” Gina says. “We want our patients to have quality — quality of life. We really make that happen so that

they’re going to have the best experience that they can possibly have.”

National Nurses Week, May 6-12, gives us an opportunity to thank these healthcare heroes for their incredible skill, tenderness and resilience.

Throughout this pandemic, Hospice of the Valley nurses also have played a critical role in bringing families together in our inpatient care homes, so that loved ones could safely be at the bedside to share precious moments.

“I love being a nurse because you get to share people’s lives,” says Moriah Colon, who is part of the After Hours team. “I’ve had patients who were fighter pilots in World War II, surgeons, ballerinas and all kinds of wonderful individuals. To have a connection with them and be a part of their story is amazing. It’s very meaningful to be able to provide this service and really touch lives this deeply.”

It’s what drew nurse Patrick Murage to hospice care. “This job is not an 8 to 5 job that you punch in and out. It’s a call that

you answer every day,” says Patrick, who serves patients and families throughout the East Valley. “I think the biggest part is knowing that I helped somebody today.

That’s what makes me wake up and come to work.”

In many ways, “we are the eyes and ears for the doctors,” says Bessie Medigovic, a visit nurse based in the Northeast Valley. “At the end, our visits increase because patients need more support.

With each encounter, I try to take in what’s important to each family.”

Sometimes, a simple act of kindness makes all the difference.

When nurse Kim Werton’s patient needed help with a bed bug treatment in his apartment, she and her team packed and washed 11 bags of his clothes and linens at a laundromat while he stayed at one of our inpatient care homes.

And perhaps the most touching moment of Matt Hughens’ career had nothing to do with what he learned in his practical nursing program.

“My patient’s son was singing and playing for his dad. He asked if I played and when I said yes, he handed me his guitar. As soon as I strummed ‘You’ve Got a Friend,’ the room became silent. I noticed tears falling. When I finished, the son said, ‘You don’t know what you have done!’ Turns out his father was a music composer who loved James Taylor, and this song was the last one sitting on his dad’s piano stand at home,” Matt recalls.

The next evening, Matt returned with his own guitar and played gospel songs at the family’s request. The patient died peacefully as Matt sang “Amazing Grace.”

Nurses who want to bring comfort, dignity and compassionate care to our community are invited to apply at hov.org/ careers. Home care, inpatient, admissions and telephone triage positions are available, along with flexible schedules, educational opportunities, excellent pay and benefits.

Lin Sue Cooney is director of community engagement for Hospice of the Valley.

Midwestern U starts 4 Helping the needy graduate nurse programs GSN NEWS STAFF

T

he College of Health Sciences at Midwestern University‘s Glendale Campus is implementing four new graduate nursing programs.

The university is offering a scholarship to select students who are accepted for the inaugural classes beginning this fall for the master of science in nursing and doctor of nursing practice programs.

The new graduate nursing degree programs include: master of science in nursing with an adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner concentration; master of science in nursing with a concentration in nurse leadership in global health; a doctor of nursing practice program with two specialty tracks.

The first track is designated for actively working Adult-Gerontology Primary Care nurse practitioners electing

to complete a doctoral degree in their area of specialty, and the second track is designed for master’s-prepared nursing leaders aspiring to become doctoral-prepared nurse executives.

Midwestern University offers the only graduate nursing programs in Arizona specializing in adult-gerontology primary care.

Nurse practitioners are instrumental in addressing demands due to increasing primary care provider shortages, especially within vulnerable or aging communities, underserved populations and remote areas. Students have access to state-of-the-art technology while learning in various multidisciplinary settings.

Information: midwestern.edu/ nursing.xml or contact Dr. Pagan at mpagan@midwestern.edu or 623-5376502.

The Arizona Connections Academy recently held a donation fair in Gilbert to benefit the Maricopa Pantry. Students made 240 inspirational packs for HelpSnackz snack bags and gave the pantry gift cards, shoes and clothing for Teen for Teens.

Participants included, from left, Front row: Sedona Price, Annamaria Delgado, Carmen Sofia Delgado, Loralei Cook, Jenna LiBrandi, Jade Kreiser, Crystal Proctor and Elissa Ornelas. Back row: Lacy Mays, Taylor May, Caleb Scheopner and Tyler Brown. (Special to GSN)

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

Thank you, nurses and hospital workers, for making everyone’s days brighter with your compassion and heart.

T:10"

Patients never forget how you remember the little things.

BUSINESS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

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Gilbert gym targets young aspiring athletes

BY STACI HAUK GSN Contributor

W

hile there are many sporting facilities in Gilbert, Strong Youth Fitness has a different mission that aligns with those looking to become strong athletes.

With locations at 2401 E. Baseline Road in Gilbert and 610 N. Alma School Road in Chandler, Strong wants to bring the tools needed to young athletes who are hoping to grow their game.

Strong delves into the vast arena of sports technique; form and coordination, speed and agility, power and explosiveness and strength and conditioning.

These core areas of athlete development help to polish proper form and mechanics while touching on general

fitness in order to build longevity across all sports.

Dynamic coaches and unique programs in group fitness, weight training, personal training that enables kids to develop targeted skills and weekend bootcamps to build strength and motivation through peer inspiration mean there is something for each child at Strong.

“Strong Youth Fitness specializes in athlete performance enhancement and general fitness for youth and teens,” said owner and head coach Amy Jones.

“We focus on speed and agility, which is important for sports like football and soccer and power which is important in basketball and volleyball.,” she said. “We also offer training in better coordination and much more,” Jones explained that data shows 50

percent of kids participate in organized sports and 70 percent of athletes stop playing sports by age 13. Her goal is to help schools, sports programs and coaches by building a solid foundation.

“If we teach athletes the proper way to move, function and prevent injury then they will enjoy participating longer while staying healthy,” she explained.

“With the significant amount of growth across the East Valley along with the average household age and size, there are a large number of parents and kids looking to stay active and who are passionate about sports. We embrace that passion and energy and want to help maintain it.”

Strong incorporates an innovated and simple way to choose the right program for each athlete and book classes/ses-

sions with the touch of a button. Parents can download the Strong Youth Fitness app on the Apple App store or Android, register an athlete into one of the simple cost programs and begin booking sessions immediately. Sessions last for 45 minutes.

“We start with a 5-10 minute dynamic warm-up to get athletes warm and moving, we then go into our main focus for the day’s workout and then end the session with a cool down period,” Jones said.

Strong is also enthusiastic about their recent partnership with Gilbert Public School District to offer after-school programs as well as camps over school breaks this spring.

Information: strongyouthfitness.com or 602-621-6675.

recyclable, reusable, compostable, or recycled materials by 2028.

“Our U.S. customers will have a terrific way to help recycle Isagenix packaging that is not yet sustainable while we continue making progress toward our zero-waste goal,” Coover said.

Isagenix plans to launch the recycling program during the fourth quarter once program development is complete.

Packaging that can’t be recycled through local curbside pickup or store drop-off recycling options, such as personal care product and film packaging used for items like the IsaLean Bar, will be eligible for the program.

Participating customers will print prepaid shipping labels and use their own boxes to ship items to TerraCycle, where the packaging will be cleaned and melted into hard plastic that can be remolded to make new recycled products.

Isagenix has already hit several major

recycling milestones: 75 percent of its packaging components are recyclable or compostable and two products are zerowaste.

The company’s sustainability focus includes sustainable shipping practices, sustainable and ethical sourcing, green efforts at its world headquarters in Gilbert, and plant-based products.

Last year, Isagenix began using cardboard trays instead of boxes when moving shake canisters from its thirdparty manufacturers to its distribution centers, saving 1 million square feet in cardboard in 2020.

Solar panels on the parking structures at its Gilbert headquarters provide enough clean energy to power 25 percent of the building.

The company continues to expand its plant-based product line, which ranges from meal replacements to snacks.

Isagenix is also investing in sustain-

able food production for underserved populations around the world through the ISA Foundation, its nonprofit.

The foundation funds U.S.- and Canada-based nonprofits that align with its four focus areas, which include healthy nutrition and support for underserved children and wellness education for all. For example, grant recipient IDEA Public Schools in Texas has used foundation The ISA Foundation recently awarded grants totaling $70,000 to six Arizona-based nonprofits. Five of the recipients have previously received grants.

The Be Kind People Project is new.

The six grant recipients are: The Be Kind People Project in Scottsdale, $20,000; ICAN in Chandler, $15,000; AZCEND, also Chandler, $15,000; House of Refuge in Mesa, $10,000; TigerMountain Foundation in Phoenix, $5,000; and the Chandler Service Club, $5,000.

Gilbert company partners with recycling leader GSN NEWS STAFF

A

s part of its commitment to sustainability, Isagenix International in Gilbert has partnered with international recycling leader TerraCycle to recycle product packaging that can’t be processed municipally, helping to divert it from landfills.

The global wellbeing company is making a six-figure investment in the partnership and other sustainable packaging improvements this year and will cover shipping costs for U.S. customers to send some of its packaging to New Jersey-based TerraCycle, which specializes in hard-to-recycle waste.

“We’re beyond excited to partner with TerraCycle as part of our journey to zero waste packaging,” said Isagenix Chief Visionary Officer Erik Coover.

The company’s goal is to convert all packaging components to be made with

24

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GilbertSunNews.com

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

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Tariq Freeny leading Mesquite after overcoming injury

BY ZACH ALVIRA GSN Sports Editor

A

ny time Tariq Freeny steps up to the plate to bat or behind it to catch, he often hears the words of his uncle behind him.

“Seven seconds, Tariq!” Tilt Shabuzz, his uncle, screams. The term is a sentimental one between the two, and one that has helped Freeny overcome the emotion that often comes with baseball.

It’s in those 7 seconds Freeny slows everything down, analyzing his opponent’s next move and his own.

It often brings a smile to his face. After all, before the 2021 season he hadn’t heard it while playing in nearly three years.

“If you’re on top of your stuff and you’re mentally in the game you’re going to know what’s going to happen 7 seconds before it even happens,” Freeny said. “That’s you being ready and mentally prepared. He screams it out when it really matters and when it comes down to it, it really works.”

Freeny’s high school baseball journey began with him at Mountain Pointe preparing to play for the Pride. But he then transferred to Hamilton where a large talent pool quickly cast a doubt on his ability to see the field at a young age.

He eventually landed at Mesquite where he had hoped to play as a sophomore. However, due to nagging issues with the growth plate in his right shoulder, he was forced to sit out.

The injury kept Freeny off the field for nearly three years, beginning before his high school career. Now healthy, he’s made the most of it. And the Mesquite baseball program has reaped the benefits of his availability.

“He’s the reason why we are doing what we are doing,” Mesquite coach Jeff Holland said. “I’ve never had a single player change the complexion of the

Mesquite baseball coach Jeff Holland, who acknowledges his team struggled at the catcher position, said Freeny’s arrival to the program was like “God sent us an angel.”

(Zach Alvira/GSN Staff) team like he has. Pitchers are out there more confident with him there. He controls the game, he’s the field general.

“Once a pitcher trusts a catcher, they’ll throw any pitch. He’s done that well.”

Freeny has become one of the leaders of the team Mesquite junior catcher Tariq Freeny battled injury that this season at catcher. kept him off the field for nearly three years. But now Younger players within the healthy, he’s changed the dynamic of the Wildcat baseball program look up to him program and has them poised to make a run at the 4A for guidance while the old- championship. (Pablo Robles/GSN Staff) er players rely on him to be another leader in Mesquite’s clubhouse. the day with schoolwork and finishes in He’s been able to build a connection time to drive to Mesquite for baseball with all of his teammates, something the practices or games. Even without having pandemic made difficult. a physical presence in the halls of MesFreeny is one of few athletes across the quite, he’s been able to build chemistry East Valley who have remained online with his teammates on the field. for school all year due to the pandemic.

“I have a flexible schedule so I can It’s a decision that was made between practice during the day and come with him and his father, Michael Freeny, be- the team,” Freeny said. “When I came in, fore Mesquite and other Gilbert schools they really accepted me. They’ve made went back to in-person learning last fall. everything super easy and made me feel Online school has allowed him to vir- welcome here. tually create his own schedule. He starts “I’ve never felt accepted like this. I re-

ally feel like I’m part of this family.”

In his first varsity season, Freeny has found success at the plate.

He has one of the highest batting averages on the team at .415 with 27 RBI and a home run. Behind the plate, he has a team high 87 put outs and a perfect fielding percentage.

Freeny attributes much of his success to his father and uncle, who both worked diligently with him during his long rehab process to get back on the field. It was a grueling task that often resulted in pain but when that eventually subsided, he began to thrive.

“I spoke to coach (Mike) Woods (Hamilton) about him, and he told me Tariq was good, but he just hadn’t seen him play because of his injury,” Holland said.

“But when he came in and was healthy, the chemistry of this team got better. We were struggling at the catcher position but with him, it’s like God sent us an angel.”

Mesquite wrapped up the shortened regular season Wednesday with a win against Shadow Mountain. The Wildcats, currently the No. 3 seed in 4A, finished the year with a 19-1 record with their only loss having come against Saguaro in late March.

The Wildcats are routinely in the championship hunt under Holland on a yearly basis, but this year’s team seems more poised than ever to make a deep run.

Holland will continue to rely on the leaders of his program to help the team navigate through the postseason, which is now single elimination. That includes Freeny, who dealt with injury for so long is eager to help lead Mesquite on a championship run.

“It’s been hard mentally,” Freeny said.

“I just had to be strong and willing to keep trying no matter how hard it got.

Being here, it’s a great feeling. I’m grateful to have this opportunity.”

25

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

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27

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

Obituaries Marilyn Joan (Hanson) Olson December 18, 1934 - April 20, 2021

Obituaries Michael Leo Spurgeon

MISHAWAKA, Ind. – Michael Leo Spurgeon, age 77, of Mishawaka, Indiana, died Saturday, May 1, 2021, at Primrose Retirement Community of Mishawaka.

Michael was born August 20, 1943, in Richmond, Indiana, to Jerome and Mayme Bruck Spurgeon. He graduated from Richmond High School and attended the College of Eastern Utah for one year.

Michael served in the United States Air Force from January 1963 – September 1966. He was a railroad man and long haul trucker. Michael loved living in Scottsdale, Arizona, for 29 years. He was a member of Sunny Haven Recreation Park in Granger, Indiana. Michael was a life-long fan of Pink Floyd and enjoyed playing volleyball, golf, and cards.

Survivors include his wife of almost 33 years, Diana Dean-Spurgeon; children, Michael L. Spurgeon Jr. and Toni R. Spitzer, both of Indiana; grandchildren, Shaun McFadden of Indiana, Patrick McFadden of Texas, Mary Rose McFadden, Cody Spurgeon, and

Zach Spurgeon, all of Indiana, Tyler Spurgeon of Japan, Gregory Spurgeon of Indiana, and Barbara Secor of Virginia; and brothers, Larry Spurgeon of Indiana and Jarry Spurgeon of Texas.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Rose Stringfield Spurgeon, who died in 1982; son, Gregory M. Spurgeon; parents; brother, Don Spurgeon; and special friends, Butch Sauer and John Nichols.

A graveside service for Michael Leo Spurgeon was held at 2:00 p.m.

Friday, May 7, 2021, at Earlham Cemetery. Arrangements were handled by Doan & Mills Funeral Home, 790 National Road West, Richmond.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675 or American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 15829, Arlington, VA 22215.

As Michael said many times over the past few years, “NOBODY GETS OUT OF THIS WORLD ALIVE.” Condolences may be sent to the family via the guest book at www.doanmillsfuneralhome.com.

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Marilyn Joan (Hanson) Olson went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on April 20, 2021. Marilyn was born on December 18, 1934 to Millard and Olga (Sollie) Hanson in Fertile, Minnesota.

She was the second

of three daughters.

Marilyn graduated from Fertile High School in 1953 and attended St. Paul Bible College.

There she met her soon to be husband, Dale Olson. Dale and Marilyn married on December 7, 1957 and made their home near Sandy Lake, where they had four children, Daniel, Gary, Trevor, and Troy.

In 1973 the Olsons moved to Colorado Springs. Throughout the years, Marilyn volunteered with the various churches they attended, often coordinating Children’s Church and singing in the choir. Marilyn enjoyed time with her family and many friends. In her retirement years, Marilyn split her time between her winter home in Mesa, Arizona, and her summer home in Colorado Springs. Marilyn loved the warm sun of Mesa and camping in the beautiful Colorado mountains.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her father, Millard; her mother, Olga; her sister, Betty; and her grandchildren, Jared Olson and Courtney Wilkinson.

Marilyn is survived by her loving husband, Dale; her children, Daniel (Angie), Gary (Patty), Trevor (Lisa), and Troy (Rebecca); and her sister, Delores (Roger) Lindgren; thirteen grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Memorial Service, 11:00AM, Friday, May 14, 2021, Colorado Springs Baptist Church, 5410 East Woodmen Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80920.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Marilyn's memory may be made to Life Network Pregnancy Center of Colorado Springs, (elifenetwork.com/donate/). Arrangements by The Springs Funeral Services-North, tsfs.co

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Obituaries Aaron T. Stout

It is with great sadness that the family of Aaron T. Stout announces that Aaron has passed in his sleep on 04-2421. Aaron is survived by Paul Stout (son), Marge (Wagner) Stout [mother], Jennifer & Jason Estes [sister], Jeff & Linda Stout [brother]. He was preceded in death by Dale Stout (father), and Claudia (Reichl) Stout [wife].

Aaron was born and raised in the Elburn, IL area, and graduated Kaneland High school in 1980, and DeVry College in 1988. He then worked for Charmilles corp. He moved to Meza AZ in the mid 90’s to operate Charmilles’ Phoenix based office out of his home.

In 2014 Aaron married his one & only love, Claudia. In 2018 they adopted Claudia’s nephew Paul who was in need of a complete home.

They all resided in their Mesa, AZ home until Claudia’s passing in 2019.

There are no visitations planned for the Mesa area. Donations to ADD charities are encouraged in lieu of flowers.

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

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CALL OR TEXT 480-744-0451 TO APPLY

Full Time v

Generous Pay v

Benefits

Merch

Real Estate

Wanted to Buy

Apartments

andise For Rent Cash 4 Diabetic Strips!

Best Prices in Town.

Sealed and Unexpired.

480-652-1317

Diabetic Test Strips by the box, unused. Any type or brand.

Will pay top dollar.

Call Pat 480-323-8846

Crismon/Apache Trl/Merrill Cottage Cozy 2br 1ba Bad Credit ok. $880 No Deposit. Water/trash incl'd (602) 339-1555

Announcements Lessons/ Tutoring Enhance your Education!

I tutor 1st-8th grade. Subjects are English, Reading, Writing, and Art. My expertise • Professionalism, Patience, Creativity My qualifications; • GCU Graduate, 7 years of teaching experience I can do zoom, my home or meet at local library 602-334-9270/ karlachester@yahoo.com

Real Estate for Sale Manufactured Homes

THE LINKS ESTATES Why Rent The Lot When

YOU CAN OWN THE LAND And Own Your New Home

v

Paid Vacation v

Paid Sick Time v

401K

Apply online at maaxspas.com or call 480-895-4575

FROM THE UPPER 100’S

ASK US HOW YOUR $105,000 CASH INVESTMENT AND OUR SENIOR LOAN PROGRAM ENABLES QUALIFIED 62+ SENIORS MAKING THE LINKS THEIR PRIMARY RESIDENCE HAVE NO MORTGAGE PAYMENT & NO LOT RENT AS LONG AS YOU LIVE IN HOME.

Gawthorp & Associates Realty 40667 N Wedge Dr • San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

602-402-2213

www.linksestates.net

29

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

Air Conditioning/Heating Repairs Installations Tune-ups

Carpet Cleaning

Cleaning Services

Glass/Mirror

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY STEAM CLEANING

SPARKLE & SHINE CLEANING SERVICE Immaculate, Dependable Service. Affordable Rates.

Commercial & Residential services All supplies included.

Sanitized & masks worn You've tried the rest, now try the BEST!" Ask for Martha or Annie 480-495-5516 or 480-797-6023

GLASS, MIRRORS, SHOWER DOORS

Financing Available

Air Conditioning/Heating

49

$

AC/Heat Tune-Up Special

0% Easy Financing • Free Estimates New Units as low as $39/mo.

ROC# 197366

480-977-6916 aircareaz.com

———— Your Comfort is Our Mission! ————

50% OFF A/C TUNE-UP INSPECTION

FREE

SERVICE CALL NO REPAIR REQUIRED!

($19.95 Value)

Applies to one unit. Cannot be combined with any other discount or coupon.

Cannot be combined with any other discount or coupon.

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Appliance Repairs

Appliance Repair Now

Trusted Service for 18 Years • A+ Rated BBB • Complaint-Free Record

If It’s Broken, We Can Fix It!

QUALITY, VALUE and a GREAT PRICE!

• Same Day Service • On-Site Repairs • Servicing All Major Brands • Quality Guaranteed

Lifetime Warranty on Workmanship HVAC Tune Up - $129 New 3-Ton AC Units - now $3,995 New Trane Air Conditioners NO INTEREST FINANCING - 60 MONTHS!

‘A’ RATED AC REPAIR FREE ESTIMATE SAME DAY SERVICE

We Also Buy, Sell & Trade Used Appliances Working or Not

480-659-1400 Licensed & Insured See MORE Ads Online!

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$

2 rooms

2 rooms rooms free hall hall 39 2free free hall

$ $

5 rooms

5 rooms rooms FREE HALL HALL 79 5FREE FREE HALL

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sofa && sofa sofa & loveseAT loveseAT loveseAT Free chair chair Free Free chair

No hidden hidden charges. charges.

No Seniorcharges. and No hidden Senior and veteran discounts.

Senior and veteran discounts. veteran discounts.

FREE ESTIMATES ESTIMATES FREE FREE ESTIMATES 480.773.4700

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Garage/Doors GARAGE DOOR SERVICE East Valley/ Ahwatukee

Broken Springs Replaced Nights/Weekends Bonded/Insured 480-251-8610

Not a licensed contractor

Concrete & Masonry

Block Fence * Gates

602-789-6929 Roc #057163 Lowest Prices * 30 Yrs Exp Serving Entire Valley

Bonded/Insured • ROC #289252

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furniture moving moving furniture furniture moving pre-spotting pre-spotting pre-spotting deodOrizer deodOrizer deodOrizer

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YOU’LL LIKE US - THE BEST!

Air Conditioning/Heating

Family Owned with 50 years' EXPERIENCE. Shower and tub enclosures, Framed, Frameless or Custom Doors, We also install insulated glass, mirrored closet doors, window glass, mirrors, patio doors, glass table protectors. If it’s glass, we can help you. QUALITY SERVICE at Competitive Prices.

FREE Estimates

WESLEY'S GLASS & MIRROR wesleysglass.com SERVICING THE ENTIRE VALLEY Call 480-306-5113

Car for Sale?

Advertise It Here!

Call 480.898.6465

CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

Home Improvement HOME REMODELING REPAIRS & CUSTOM INTERIOR PAINTING Move a wall; turn a door into a window.

From small jobs and repairs to room additions, I do it all.

Precision interior painting, carpentry, drywall, tile, windows, doors, skylights, electrical, fans, plumbing and more.

All trades done by hands-on General Contractor.

Friendly, artistic, intelligent, honest and affordable.

40 years' experience.

Call Ron Wolfgang Pleas text or leave message Cell 602-628-9653 Wolfgang Construction Inc. Licensed & Bonded ROC 124934

Fire/Water Damage/Restoration

ACTION CONTRACTING INC. SPECIALIZING IN

WATER - FIRE DAMAGE AND RESTORATION

We get your home or office to back pre-loss condition.

We also specialize in home remodels and commercial projects. Car-port to Garage conversion, drywall & stucco repairs, painting, electrical, plumbing and tenant Improvements

Fast 24 hour response! ★ WE DO IT ALL! Call Today

480-430-7737 - cell 480-833-7353 - office Electrical Services

S

I

E NC

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LIC/BONDED/INSURED ROC#218802 • A+ Rating with the BBB

aaaActionContractingInc.com

HONESTY • INTEGRITY • QUALITY

• Serving Arizona Since 2005 •

• Panel Changes and Repairs • Installation of Ceiling Fans • Switches/Outlets • Home Remodel

ALL RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL Call Jim Endres 480.282.7932 Over 28 Years Experience • ROC #246019 Bonded/Insured

Add a Background Color to Your Ad! Classifieds 480-898-6465

Handyman LLC

• Drywall Repair • Bathroom Remodeling • Home Renovations

• Electrical Repair • Plumbing Repair • Dry rot and termite damage repair

GENERAL CONTRACTOR / HANDYMAN SERVICES SERVING THE ENTIRE VALLEY

All Estimates are Free • Call:

520.508.1420

www.husbands2go.com

Licensed, Bonded & Insured • ROC#317949 Ask me about FREE water testing!

30

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021 Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs!

Painting • Flooring • Electrical Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry Handyman Decks • Tile • More!

Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! rks the Spot for ALL•Your Handyman Needs! ✔ Painting Painting Flooring • Electrical “No Job Too ✔Small Flooring Painting • Flooring • Electrical Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry Man!” Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry ✔ Electrical Decks • Tile • More!

1999 e Sinc k Quality Wor Decks •Affo Tile • More! rdable, ✔ Plumbing 2010, 2011 2012, 2013, 2014 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 ✔ Drywall Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor “No Job ✔ Carpentry Too Small Marks the Spot for“No Job Too ALL Your Handyman Needs! ✔ Decks Painting • Flooring • Electrical Small Man!” “No Job Too Man!” ✔ Tile Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry

Small Man!” Decks • Tile • More! ✔ Kitchens Since 1999 rdable, Quality Work ✔ Bathrooms BSMALLMAN@Q.COM 2010, 2011 9 199 Quality Work Since 2012, “No 2013, Job Too And More!

2010, 2011 Small Man!” 2014 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038

uce at 602.670.7038 References/ Insured/ NotResident a Licensed Contractor Ahwatukee / References atdent/602.670.7038

2012, 2013, 2014 ty Work Since 1999

Affordable, Quali

rences/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor Insured / Not aCall Licensed Contractor Bruce at 602.670.7038

2010, 2011 2012, 2013, 2014

Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor

Hauling

Landscape/Maintenance Insured/Bonded Free Estimates

ALL Pro

T R E E

S E R V I C E

Landscape/Maintenance

TREE

25 Years exp (480) 720-3840

• Concrete Slab

Please recycle me.

Irrigation

Licensed • Bonded • Insured

Specializing in Controllers, Valves, Sprinklers, Landscape Lighting, P.V.C. & Poly Drip Systems

CALL US TODAY!

Sprinkler & Drip Systems Repairs • Modifications • Installs

All Remodeling, Additions, Kitchen, Bath, Patio Covers, Garage, Sheds, Windows, Doors, Drywall & Roofing Repairs, Painting, All Plumbing, Electrical, Concrete, Block, Stucco, Stack Stone, All Flooring, Wood, Tile, Carpet, Welding, Gates, Fences, All Repairs.

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SEWER CABLE COMPREHENSIVE, FULL-SERVICE PLUMBING COMPANY

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PLUMBERS CHARGE TOO MUCH! Beat Any Price By 10% • Lifetime Warranty Water Heaters Installed - $799 Unclog Drains - $49 FREE RO UNIT w/Any WATER SOFTENER INSTALL NO INTEREST FINANCING - 60 Months!!

‘A’ RATED PLUMBING REPAIR Free Estimates • Same Day Service

Interior/Exterior Painting 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Bonded/Insured • ROC #223709

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“Many a small thing has been made large by the right kind of advertising”

East Valley PAINTERS

- Mark Twain

Paint Interior & Exterior • Drywall Repair Light Carpentry • Power Washing • Textures Matched Popcorn Removal • Pool Deck Coatings Garage Floor Coatings • Color Consulting

Irrigation

NTY

HOME IMPROVEMENT & PAINTING

Voted #1

Free Estimates with Pride & Prompt Service!

5-YEAR WARRA

Painting

Free Estimates • Senior Discounts

Licensed • Bonded • Insured • ROC118198

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We Are State Licensed and Reliable!

General Contracting, Inc.

Owner Does All Work, All Honey-Do Lists

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Dunn Edwards Quality Paint Small Stucco/Drywall Repairs

Home Improvement

HYDROJETTING

25 years exp. Call Now (480) 720-3840

Irrigation Repair Services Inc.

Your newspaper.

Your community.

Your planet.

• Yard Waste

One Call, We Do It All! 602-339-4766

Not a licensed contractor

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• Old Paint & Chems.

• Old Tires

Drip/Install/Repair & Tune ups!

Prepare for Monsoon Season!

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• Remodeling Debris

SPRINKLER

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PMB 435 • 2733 N. Power Rd. • Suite 102 • Mesa dennis@allprotrees.com

• Furniture • Appliances • Mattresses • Televisions • Garage Clean-Out • Construction Debris

Juan Hernandez

Juan Hernandez

L L C

LANDSCAPING, TREES & MAINTENANCE

Plumbing

10% OFF

We Beat Competitors Prices & Quality

• 20 Years Experience • 6 Year Warranty

Free Estimates!

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Family Owned & Operated Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131

Now Accepting all major credit cards

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class@timespublications.com

31

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

Pool Service / Repair

Public Notices

Juan Hernandez

Notice of Public Scoping for an Environmental Assessment for Hunt Highway Improvement Project – Phase 5

Roofing

Pavers • Concrete • Water Features • Sprinkler Repair

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

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

Call Juan at

480-706-1453

480-720-3840

Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099

Not a licensed contractor.

Window Cleaning 480-699-2754 • info@monsoonroofinginc.com

10% Discount for Ahwatukee Residents 100% NO Leak Guarantee Re-Roof & Roofing Repairs Tile, Shingles & Flat Roof

keith@windowsrc.biz

MonsoonRoofingInc.com

Professional Window Cleaner

Keith Schram

Licensed – Bonded – Insured – ROC187561

Hot water pressure washing, 3000 PSI

MORE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE! www.GilbertSunNews.com

480-306-8543

azvalleywindowcleaning.com

Roofing

aOver 30 Years of Experience

aFamily Operated by 3 Generations of Roofers!

Premier Tile, Shingle & Foam Roofer!

Spencer 4 HIRE ROOFING Valley Wide Service

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The U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Pima Agency and the Gila River Indian Community (Community) are releasing this notice in support of an environmental assessment for the proposed Hunt Highway Improvement Project – Phase 5 (project) in District One of the Community. The project would include roadway improvements along portions of Hunt Highway and Arizona Farms Road.

The project proponent, Pinal County Public Works Department, has submitted a right-of-way (ROW) application to the BIA for roadway improvements on Hunt Highway and Arizona Farms Road, which would constitute the final phase of the Hunt Highway Improvement Project.

Primary project components would include acquiring approximately 19 acres of new permanent roadway ROW, realigning the western terminus of the existing Arizona Farms Road, widening approximately 4,200 feet of existing Hunt Highway to match the newly reconstructed roadway dimensions both north and south of the project area, and installing a new light-controlled intersection at Hunt Highway and the realigned Arizona Farms Road.

Project construction is anticipated to begin in January 2022 to January 2023 and will be completed in approximately 8 months. No traffic detours would be required.

Traffic delays would be short-term and temporary. The grant of easement for ROW, if approved by BIA, would formalize the alignments for both Hunt Highway and Arizona Farms Road within the Community.

The purpose of the project is for Pinal County to complete the final phase of their planned improvements along the Hunt Highway corridor, through the widening of the existing Hunt Highway alignment and the realignment of Arizona Farms Road.

Hunt Highway both north and south of the project area have been improved and widened to four lanes; however, the older roadway within the project area is only two lanes. The lane reduction in the project area presents a potential safety concern for existing vehicle traffic on Hunt Highway. The project would widen Hunt Highway through the project area to match the new roadway and lane configurations to both the north and south. Additionally, the Hunt Highway and Arizona Farms Road intersection currently presents line-of-sight safety concerns for drivers on Arizona Farms Road. The project would realign this traffic intersection and replace the stop-controlled intersection with a traffic light to improve traffic flow and safety.

As part of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), federal agencies are required to consider the potential social and environmental impacts of proposed actions. This letter serves as the BIA’s invitation for comments, concerns, or suggestions regarding the proposed action. All comments received become part of the public record associated with this proposed action. Accordingly, your comments (including your name and address) will be available for review by any person that wishes to view the record. At your request, we will withhold your contact information to the extent allowed by the Freedom of Information Act. Please submit comments to: Cecilia Baker, Superintendent Bureau of Indian Affairs, Pima Agency P.O. Box 8 Sacaton, Arizona 85147 Telephone: (520) 562-3326 Email: Cecilia.Baker@bia.gov Published: East Valley Tribune May 9, 16, 23, 30, 2021 / 37928

Meetings/Events?

Get Free notices in the Classifieds!

Submit to ecota@timespublications.com

It Only Takes Seconds to Drown.

Always watch your child around water.

32

GILBERT SUN NEWS | MAY 9, 2021

Two great events at two great communities!

Stop by for a tour and pick up a beautiful bouquet of flowers any day in May! Please RSVP to Sheri 480-800-7304, at least 24 hours in advance.

GET ENTERED TO WIN A SPA PACKAGE! Schedule a tour any day in the month of May to be entered into our spring raffle! tm

*We will be practicing social distancing, masks are required, and temp checks at the door.

We are giving away a $500 gift certificate to Aji Spa, located inside Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass Resort.

Reserve your tour today!

480.485.3000 *We will be practicing social distancing, masks are required, and temp checks at the door.

tm

LivGenerations Ahwatukee

LivGenerations Agritopia

15815 S. 50th Street | Phoenix, AZ 85048

2811 E. Agritopia Loop S. | Gilbert, AZ 85296

480-485-3000

480-485-2000

livgenerationsahwatukee.com

livgenerationsagritopia.com

I N D E P E N D E N T L I V I N G | A S S I S T E D L I V I N G | M E M O R Y C A R E | S I G N AT U R E S E R V I C E S