Trail users in Gilbert have an excuse if they feel that they’ve rambled off somewhere.
The town doesn’t have a clear signage system to help navigate its 32 miles of paved paths and 17 miles of granite trails for walkers, hikers, runners, cyclists and equestrians.
“Our trails are used heavily by people,” said Melanie Dykstra, management support analyst at Gilbert Parks and Recreation. “But we don’t have any trailhead signs. We don’t tell you where you can start…we don’t tell you where you can go.”
All that is about to change. A Maricopa Association of Governments grant of $41,000 has literally
BY COURTNEY KOCK
James Candland, experienced public and government relations consultant, was sworn in as the newest Gilbert town councilman recently.
Candland emerged from 28 other applicants for the interim position. The opening was created when Mayor John Lewis resigned to become president and CEO of regional coalition East Valley Partnership. Councilwoman Jenn Daniels stepped up to finish the final six months of his term.
Candland will be replaced by a candidate who is running in the upcoming election. The application was not open to candidates running for the permanent position.
The Town Council interviewed the
This graphic illustrates how a sign will introduce a main trailhead in the Gilbert Trail System.
Gilbert Presiding Judge John Hudson with James Candland, who was sworn in as the newest Town Councilman recently.
Call Bret Johnson today for details on how these exciting offers can benefit you…and Start Packing!
GUARANTEED
Stunning custom BASEMENT home with gorgeous resort style backyard offering endless amenities. This home is in immaculate condition and is being sold by its original owners. With an ideal location close to shopping, dining and highway access, this property will make you proud to call it home for years to come! 24
Recorded Info, 1-800-303-3049, ID # 8013
Avoid 6 Costly Errors When Moving to a Larger Gilbert Home and Save Thousands
Gilbert - A new report has just been released which identifies the 6 most common and costly mistakes that homebuyers make when moving to a larger home. Unlike the experience of buying a first home, when you’re looking to move-up, and already own a home, there are certain factors that can complicate the situation. It’s very important for you to understand these issues before you list your home for sale. Not only is there the issue of financing
to consider, but you also have to sell your present home at exactly the right time in order to avoid either the financial burden of owning two homes or, just as bad, the dilemma of having no place to live during the gap between closings.
In answer to this issue, Industry Insiders have prepared a FREE special report entitled “6 Mistakes to Avoid When Trading Up to a Larger Home.”
These six strategies will help you make
informed choices before you put your home on the market in anticipation of moving to a larger home.
To order a FREE Special Report, call my toll-free line 1-800-303-3049 and enter 8007. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Get your free special report NOW to find out what you need to know to make your move-up to a larger home worry-free and without complication.
27 Tips to Drive Up the Sale Price of Your Gilbert Home
Gilbert - Because your home may well be your largest asset, selling it is probably one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. And once you have made that decision, you’ll want to sell your home for the highest price in the shortest time possible without compromising your sanity. Before you place your home on the market, here’s a way to help you to be as prepared as possible.
To assist homesellers, a new industry report has just been released called “27 Valuable Tips That You Should Know to Get Your Home Sold Fast and for Top Dollar.” It tackles the important issues you need to know to make your home competitive in today’s tough, aggressive marketplace.
Through these 27 tips you will discover how to protect and capitalize on your most important investment, reduce stress, be in control of your situation, and make the best profit possible.
In this report you’ll discover how to avoid financial disappointment or worse, a financial disaster when selling your home. Using a common-sense approach, you will get the straight facts about what can make or break the sale of your home.
You owe it to yourself to learn how these important tips will give you the competitive edge to get your home sold fast and for the most amount of money.
Order your free report today. To order a FREE Special Report, call my toll-free line 1-800303-3049 and enter 8023. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free special report NOW.
grant of $41,000 has literally helped pave the way to design a comprehensive system of signage for the Gilbert Trail System.
Although it’s just a document now, The Trail and Wayfinding Master Plan will be the starting point for an attractive signing system, including trailhead identification, directional and trail-guide information. The elements are to be implemented in stages, starting with $50,000 allocated toward it in the budget of the current fiscal year.
Dykstra said that the master-plan process was begun this year, and that input was sought from the public, stakeholders, Parks, Recreation and Library Services Advisory Board and Town Council.
The various segments of the community wanted a “fairly colorful” design to represent Gilbert, Dykstra said. This meant stylistically incorporating the town’s historic water tower and railway into the design. Accordingly, the trail signs use a wide post with a cut out design to emulate the water tower and railway.
As for colors, the trail signs are in lime green, soft blue, dark navy blue and orange.
The primary trailhead identification signs will contain maps to demarcate Gilbert’s boundaries, major roadways, points of interest, parks, and, most importantly, existing paved and unpaved trails.
The logo for the Gilbert Trail System (GTS) was created with the abbreviated letters, and stylized with dashes. The dashes emulate the dashed lines identifying paved and unpaved trails on the Gilbert trails map, according to a
town document. Its primary colors are lime green and soft blue, also.
The signage system was guided by MAG’s Valley Path Brand and Wayfinding Signage Guidelines, which is a technical resource to cities when they plan and design wayfinding signage along the offstreet bicycle network in the Phoenix metro area.
Users will know when they are on the Valley Path system, because its logo will be on the identification signs.
Gilbert has three trail systems that run north-south—Heritage Trail, Santan Vista Trail and Marathon Trail—and one that runs east-west (Western Powerline Trail). They connect to most of the parks and the three riparian preserves. Multiuse trails are planned along Riggs Road, Chandler Heights Road and Hunt Highway.
The trails parallel the canals that are part of the Valley’s system, maintained by Salt River Project. The canals that run through town are the Western Canal, Eastern Canal, Consolidated Canal and R.W.C.D./East Maricopa Floodway.
The approximately 32 miles of urban trails connect with Gilbert’s neighbors Queen Creek, Mesa and Chandler. Thus, the signage system is important also because Gilbert’s trails are offered, in addition to recreation, as a means of nonmotorized transportation.
Over the last few years, the town has installed many features to promote safety and connectivity, such as timed crossing lights, bridges, ramadas and pocket parks.
“We want people to know that you can go farther than what’s in your borders,” Dykstra said. “This was an opportunity to bring all of that information together, both to residents and tourists.”
Sign types of the Gilbert Trail System consist of
• Primary Trailhead Identification, to be installed at trailheads, parking locations, major staging areas and entry points (Sign Type A);
• Secondary Trailhead, to be installed at the entry/exit boundaries of the trails (Sign Type B);
• Directional, which provides arrows and distances to destinations at intersections with other trails (Sign Type C);
• Secondary Directional, which provides the trail identity and directs to destinations located off the trail (Sign Type D);
• Trail Guide, which provides trail identification and direction for trail access
and is typically a one-sided sign placed at trail intersections from feeder paths/trails (Sign Type E);
• Trailblazer, which provides guidance and confirmation of the Gilbert Trail System and are placed at trail intersections from feeder paths, at roadway crossings and trail end points. (Sign Type F); and
• The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices is the national standard for all traffic control devices installed on any street, highway, or bicycle facility open to the public. (Sign Type G).
- Source: Town of Gilbert
New Off the Street Art Festival downtown to salute cooler days
BY SRIANTHI PERERA
To celebrate fall temperatures and tap into the energy of its vibrant downtown, Gilbert is organizing a new festival.
Off the Street Art Festival is 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, along the SRP Powerline Trail from Gilbert Road to Ash Street in the Heritage District.
It will feature music, street entertainers, children’s activities and food, artisan and craft vendors. An area will be set aside for chalk artists, and at least 10 will collectively create a chalk art mural. Some entertainment will be interactive and cater to all age groups.
“This kind of evolved within the last year—we wanted an arts event in downtown,” said Dina Lopez, senior
recreation leader, Special Events in the town.
Vendors, entertainers and sponsors are being sought. Sponsorships are available for $5,000 for presenting sponsor, $500 for festival sponsor and $300 for community sponsor. Applications and more details are available at http://bit.ly/2bU7suQ. Also in October, Gilbert’s Downtown Concert Series will present two free concerts at the Water Tower Plaza in the Heritage District. On Thursday, Oct. 13, the featured band is Whiskey Tango, an Arizona-based four-member top 40 rock and dance hits cover band. On Thursday, Oct. 27, another local getup, Cosmic Shindig, will play rock ‘n’ roll favorites. Details: http://bit.ly/2bgMIsx.
Whiskey Tango is scheduled to perform Thursday, Oct. 13, in the Heritage District.
Gilbert avoided donation-bin issues by creating own regulations
BY SRIANTHI PERERA
Now that there’s Arizona legislation to curb the practice of haphazardly placing donation bins in parking lots, shopping center owners in the East Valley are heaving collective sighs of relief.
“The state has spoken, and I think that it’s very timely,” said commercial real estate entrepreneur Michael J. Pollack, who owns about 80 shopping centers in the Valley, including several in Gilbert.
The town, however, was not greatly impacted by the actions of bin operators because it had developed an ordinance to regulate the placement of donation bins in shopping centers as early as a decade ago.
Code Compliance Administrator Lorrie A. DeOrio said that Gilbert has just as many bins as other municipalities do.
“However, all parties, from the shopping complex to the bin owners, are aware of our ordinance and all know the close monitoring process,” she said. “It is this combination of education and monitoring that has resulted in few issues.”
Gilbert requires annual permits (with a fee levy of $5 for nonprofits and $10 for for-profits) from the department before a bin can be placed in a private property. The bins have to comply with certain specifications, including clearly marking the name and contact information of the operator on it and regularly removing trash around the bin. The rules also allow for removal of the bin under various circumstances.
property. In addition, the bins must display the name and contact information of its operator and, if not in compliance, allows property owners to remove the bins without any liability.
DeOrio said that Gilbert’s existing regulations meet state law with two changes: they now require a notarized permission form by the property owner and the additional display of the bin owner’s e-mail address to the exterior of the container.
The issue was irking property owners for a few years.
In advance of the state law, Phoenix, Surprise and Peoria were among Valley cities to also pass ordinances of their own. Last December, Chandler considered drafting its own regulations, but did not pursue.
We now have clear property rights about what can and cannot be done when one of these bins shows up on our property.
“I’m very relieved,” said Joel Moyes, founder of Phoenix-based Kinetic Companies, which also owns several shopping centers locally. “We now have clear property rights about what can and cannot be done when one of these bins shows up on our property.”
Moyes, who is also the Arizona director of the International Council of Shopping Centers, which has 2,000 members statewide, said that he has anecdotal stories to believe that the law is already starting to have an effect.
services advocates which formed last year to fight it, estimates that there are more than 7,000 donation bins in metro Phoenix parking lots.
Of them, a large share was placed on private property without the permission of the property owner or manager, according to Matthew Benson, a coalition spokesman.
An ordinance that came into effect 10 years ago in Gilbert addressed haphazard placement of donation bins in shopping centers.
“One large, steel donation bin typically attracts others. Together, they often become covered in graffiti and act as a magnet for old mattresses, furniture and other debris,” he said. “It’s the last thing you want as a property owner or manager trying to maintain a safe, attractive space for customers and clients.”
The current challenge for the coalition is how to get the word out, statewide, about the law, Benson said, adding that his group is working toward it.
Pollack said that he maintained a direction that no one was allowed to place donation bins on his properties.
“The word was out that if they put it in our parking lot without our permission, we will have it towed away to the garbage,” he said. “Now, the law says that’s exactly what we can do.”
Senate Bill 1504, which kicked in on Aug. 6, requires donation-bin operators to receive signed and notarized permission from a property owner before placing a bin in the
“The operators, the ones that are going to be good operators, those who want to play by the rules, are already taking steps to clearly mark contact information on the bins,” he said. “Those that have those bins there placed there right now without permission, I’ve got to believe that they understand that they are on notice.”
The Fight the Blight, a broad coalition of Arizona property owners and managers, retailers, philanthropic groups and social
He called the operators “rogue” because, in many cases, they kept their identity secret and operated stealthily after midnight. Also, they placed the bins straddling the pad lines that demarcate businesses in a shopping center lot, thereby blurring the responsible party.
Sometimes, Pollack said, the operators pretended to be charitable organizations.
“In many cases, they were for-profits and they had nothing to do with charity, and in
some cases, they were saying ‘we are giving a good percentage to charity,’” he said. “We did our research and we found out the ‘good percentage’ means they gave three percent to the charity and 97 percent went into their own pocket. It was so terrible.”
The intense competition for donations and the new law, however, are not helping established charitable organizations such as the premier youth mentoring group Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona.
President/CEO Laura Capello said that it’s “frustrating” that the non-profit was not given a chance to make its recommendations to the bill’s legislators.
“They agreed to hold the vote until they had time to look over our suggestions, but ended up not doing this and passing the bill without us there to speak against it,” she said. For 25 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has partnered with Savers Thrift stores to help raise funds, and the donation bin program has been one of its mechanisms for that long.
“We have seen the negative media regarding bins, which we generally ignore because we know the criticisms do not pertain to us,” Capello said. “When we place a bin, it is with permission and is well maintained.”
Capello said the law “places an unduly restrictive and onerous conditions on the identity of the person from whom we are trying to get permission.
“This type of regulation will negatively impact our agency, as we already work hard to responsibility manage our bin donation programs,” she said.
Chamber opposes increase to minimum wage, marijuana legalization
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce is opposing 2016 ballot initiatives concerning fair wages and healthy families, hospital accountability and executive pay and the regulation and taxation of marijuana in Arizona.
“We firmly believe that these issues attempt to mandate employer workplace management through the ballot box which jeopardizes the growth of our economy,” said Rich Vandermolen, chairman of the chamber’s public policy committee. “Doing so is bad policy and almost always leads to unintended consequences that cannot be reversed.”
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce opposes the Fair Wages and Healthy Families Act. The proposal mandates a $12 per hour minimum wage in Arizona by 2020 and increases burdens on employers by requiring mandatory paid sick time for all employees.
Arizona’s minimum wage law already allows for annual hourly wage increases that are far above the federal minimum wage. If this proposition passes, the minimum wage in our state will increase by nearly 50% in four years.
It is widely known that minimum wage laws have negative economic consequences and often hurt those most that they are intended to help. Artificially inflating labor costs forces business owners to lay off workers, reduce hours or increase prices. In addition, this proposition places Arizona at a competitive disadvantage against other states in attracting businesses here that are looking to expand operations, according to the chamber.
highly talented individuals to remain in this vital healthcare industry.
This proposition by out-of-state unions seeks to cap the total annual compensation of health care professionals which would make Arizona the only state in the country to adopt such a damaging economic policy that will drive away jobs in the health care sector and other industries.
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce opposes the Legalize Marijuana Initiative for the following considerations: Employers would not be able to enforce workplace drug policies in regards to proving “under the influence” versus “impaired” as the ballot language does not clearly define impaired. Several other states are currently amending their legislative statutes due to unintended consequences which would not be allowed in Arizona due to Prop 105.
This initiative does not provide for a free market process as it protects current marijuana producers and distributors against new competition in the industry.
This proposition also places undue regulatory burdens on employers as it empowers local governments to raise the minimum wage and paid sick time levels above the state minimum. This patchwork of employment laws across the state would be almost impossible for business to navigate successfully.
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce opposes the Hospital Accountability and Quality Care Initiative for following considerations:
This measure severely diminishes the ability of our hospitals to attract and retain top talent and is a disincentive for
These ballot issues were reviewed in-depth by the Chamber’s public policy committee. Final review and approval was received by the chamber board of directors.
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit, membership-based organization with more than 670 members ranging from home-based businesses to large corporations and representing more than 52,000 employees. The Chamber proactively serves as a business advocate to strengthen the business climate in Gilbert. To learn more about or join the Chamber, please contact 480-892-0056 or visit gilbertaz.com.
Mushrooms pop up after a monsoon rain in the grass median in the 3400 block of E. Park Avenue, Gilbert. Photo by Cheryl Haselhorst
top three candidates for the position and unanimously elected Candland in a special meeting on Aug. 11 and he was sworn in a week later.
Candland’s experience and love for local government comes primarily from his six years as chief of staff to County Supervisor Don Stapley. Alongside his accomplishments in county government and public policy, Candland also has years of experience in the business sector and is the owner of two small businesses himself.
Vice Mayor Jared Taylor said he was excited to have someone with Candland’s experience on the board.
“He’s seen a lot of things that work and don’t work, so his background is going to be very useful,” Taylor said.
Candland moved to Arizona when his family relocated from Maryland to Mesa when he was 13 years old. More than 30 years later, Candland and his wife have built a home and raised their family of five sons in Gilbert.
Although he was always interested in government, with a young family at home it never felt like the right time to run for a longer term, Candland said.
“Then this opportunity came about and there were some prominent individuals in the community that reached out and
asked if I would do it and I looked at it and talked to my wife and it just, for me, it was an opportunity to serve for five months and give back to my community and work with folks that I really appreciate and enjoy on the council and staff,” Candland said.
One of his successes at the county level was implementing energyconserving measures that “ended up saving the county about $1 million a year,” Candland said in his interview with the Town Council. This is a budget saving measure that he would like to implement in Gilbert.
When asked about his vision for the five-month term, Candland said he would like to use his experience with benefits and compensation issues to address turnover problems that are currently being experienced. He would also like to focus on finding ways to reduce costs, noting that “government is limited to the dollars that we have and we want to be good stewards of those dollars.”
Mayor Jenn Daniels said that James’ unique set of skills and his experience in government will be “a great asset” to Gilbert for the next four and half months.
“We are excited to have his expertise in HR (human relations) and other related matters and his ability to reach out into our community in meaningful ways,” Daniels said.
Chiropractor offers 3 ways to alleviate pain
BY SRIANTHI PERERA
When it comes to treating her patients, Sithari Edirisooriya, doctor of chiropractic, chooses among three techniques: chiropractic, developed in the United States in 1895; physiotherapy, developed in Switzerland in 1813; or acupuncture from ancient China.
“It’s unusual to have all three skills,” said Edirisooriya, who practices at the two clinics of Alpha Chiropractic and Physical Therapy owned by Dr. Carson Robertson in Chandler.
She will talk about acupuncture from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17 at Seville Golf and Country Club, 6683 S. Clubhouse Dr. in Gilbert.
She may even use a fourth—dry needling, which involves inserting needles into “trigger points” of a muscle to alleviate pain, also a Chinese technique. It depends on which therapy suits the patient and what he or she is willing to undergo.
“If the patient is deadly afraid of needles, we’re not going to try acupuncture,” she said.
Most patients, however, initially seek chiropractic help.
Many seek care assuming that they have suffered serious injury to a spinal disc while engaged in a day-to-day activity, such as mowing the lawn. Sprains are common and heal relatively easily with chiropractic, she said. They usually are minor injuries, responding well to treatment and heal within a few weeks.
“A lot of people have pain. What differentiates all of that is outside of pain, what can you do, and that’s when I feel acupuncture can help,” she said.
Acupuncture may help with anxiety, sleeping disorders, gastrointestinal issues and headaches, among others, Edirisooriya said.
“Sometimes, patients are willing to try acupuncture because they’re not getting as much progress as they should (with other therapies),” she said.
“Acupuncture is based on the theory of meridians, and we put the needles where the meridian points are, and that’s what facilitates the healing,” said Edirisooriya, showing a doll that denoted the points.
Acupuncture points may not be directly related to where in the body the problem is located; hence, headaches could be treated by accessing points in the neck and the feet.
Another unusual attribute is that the ear contains many of the points, including those that could be used to improve sleep and anxiety.
“If you can picture a fetus all scrunched up together and flip it upside down, that’s where the points are for the entire body,” she said. “You can fit the entire body parts on the ear.”
Edirisooriya is of Sri Lankan descent, and was born in Delaware. She grew up in Tennessee and Ohio, where she attended pre-med courses with the intention of becoming a pediatrician.
Halfway through, however, she realized that the other fields of medicine were more appealing to her.
“I can still treat a wide range of patients and I can still practice medicine and get people better and I don’t have to prescribe drugs,” she said. “I enjoy that aspect.”
Edirisooriya attended National University of Health Sciences, the second oldest in the nation for chiropractic, and earned recognition for being at the top of her undergraduate and graduate classes.
Coast than the Eastern part of the country, is getting more integrated into Western medicine, although only 50% of insurance companies cover it, compared to almost total insurance coverage for chiropractic and physiotherapy.
Locally, she finds that it helps to differentiate herself.
“When I joined the Chandler Chamber, I found that I was the only chiropractor that’s offering acupuncture. I feel like, whenever I talk to people, they get excited when they find out I do acupuncture as well,” she said.
I can still treat a wide range of patients...and get people better and I don’t have to prescribe drugs.
Some of the current technology in chiropractic, including the drop table for back pain and kinesio tape, were invented by its alumni, she said.
The four years in chiropractic school included training in physiotherapy and acupuncture, and after Edirisooriya moved to Arizona in 2015, she sat for the state’s board exams in both therapies.
Edirisooriya said that acupuncture, which is more accepted on the West
Learn about ataxia at family-friendly vendor fair
The Arizona Ataxia Support Group, a nonprofit associated with the National Ataxia Foundation (NAF), is hosting a fundraiser from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, at St. Xavier University, 92 W. Vaughn Ave., Gilbert.
The event is also designed to bring awareness to the rare, often fatal group of degenerative neurological disorders. An estimated 150,000 people in the United States are affected by ataxia. Symptoms are progressive and often impact coordination, hearing, vision and speech. Ataxia affects both genders and all ages, but too often ataxia strikes children and young adults. There is no effective treatment or cure for ataxia.
Admission is free to the event that also includes local craft and business vendors. It kicks off with a talk about ataxia by Dr. Kamala Saha, followed by chair yoga demonstration.
A raffle will be held with a grand prize of a one-night stay at the Phoenician Resort with dinner for two at J&G Steakhouse. First prize is a 32-inch HDTV from Spencers TV and Appliance.
A kid’s area will feature face painting, games, prizes and a visit from clowns. Last year, the Arizona Coyotes’ mascot Howler made a guest appearance.
For more information, email ArizonaAtaxia@gmail.com or visit bit. ly/2bFFOQK.
The young woman said that an ideal work day for her would involve being challenged.
“Seeing something rare, something unique, that sometimes makes my day,” she said. “Then I get the satisfaction of knowing that I have to challenge myself.”
Sithari Edirisooriya is available at Alpha Chiropractic and Physical Therapy at 1801 W. Queen Creek Rd., Suite 2, and 3190 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 5, in Chandler. Details: 602-753-9130 or chiropractorchandler.com
Sithari Edirisooriya, doctor of chiropractic in Chandler, likes a challenging workday. GSN photo by Srianthi Perera
The Arizona Coyotes’ mascot Howler visited with kids at last year’s ataxia fair.
Donate blood, get a free haircut
The American Red Cross and Sport Clips are teaming to offer a free haircut coupon to those who come out to donate blood or platelets during September.
“The Red Cross and Sport Clips have partnered for several years to help ensure blood is available for patients in need leading into fall,” said Donna M. Morrissey, director of national partnerships, Red Cross Biomedical Services. “We are excited to partner once again for this year’s Saving Lives Never Looked So Good campaign and offer a coupon for a free haircut to volunteer blood and platelet donors in appreciation for their lifesaving gift.”
Those who come out to give blood or platelets between Sept. 1 and Sept. 30 will receive a coupon for a free haircut via email several days after their donation. The coupon is valid through Nov. 6, at participating Sport Clips locations, and donors must have a valid email address on record to receive the coupon.
“The need for blood touches so many lives—not just those who need blood, but their family members and loved ones too. This is one way Sport Clips can thank those who give the gift of life to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross. They donate blood and we give them a free haircut,” said Amanda Palm, corporate communications manager of Sport Clips.
Donors of all blood types are urged to give. To schedule an appointment to donate, use the free Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Donation appointments and completion of a RapidPass online health history questionnaire are encouraged to help reduce wait times.
To donate blood, simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information.
All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.
High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-
for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org.
Sport Clips Haircuts is headquartered in Georgetown, Texas, and has a location at 1084 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 102, Gilbert. It was established in 1993 and began franchising in 1995. The sports-theme haircutting franchise, which specializes in haircuts for men and boys, is ranked by Entrepreneur Magazine as among the “Fastest-Growing Franchises” and in the top 20 in its “Franchise 500.” There are more than 1,500 Sport Clips stores open in the U.S. and Canada.
Sport Clips, the official haircutter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), offers veterans preferential pricing on haircuts and franchises, and was named a “2016 Best for Vets: Franchises” by Military Times. Sport Clips provides “haircuts with heart” through its annual Help A Hero fundraiser that has given almost $4 million to the VFW; national partnership with St. Baldrick’s Foundation, the largest private funder of childhood cancer research grants; and other national and local philanthropic outreach.
To learn more about Sport Clips, visit sportclips.com or call the Gilbert store at 480-558-0809.
Sport Clips coupons are valid through Nov. 6. Donors must have a valid email address on record to receive the coupon.
Mesquite High grad finishes basic training
U.S. Air Force Reserve Airman 1st Class Rebecca M. Brown graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San AntonioLackland, San Antonio, Texas.
The airman completed an intensive,
eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values and basic warfare principles..
Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.
Brown is the daughter of Joel Huerta and Deborah Harris of Phoenix, daughterin-law of Deborah and Keith Brown of Maricopa, and sister of Jenna Huerta of Gilbert. She is also the sister of Marc Huerta and wife of Blake Brown.
Vehicle strikes a train in Pinal County
A 27-year-old Gilbert man suffered severe head injuries after he fell asleep at the wheel and crashed his truck into a train on Aug. 2 in San Tan Valley.
Roberto Padilla was driving west on Arizona Farms Road and tried to stop his vehicle before it crashed into the side of a train that was crossing Arizona Farms Road, east of Hunt Highway, at approximately 2:30 p.m.
According to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, the truck then spun around after striking the train and Padilla was ejected from the vehicle.
“The train was crossing the roadway with the safety arms down and flashing lights activated when the truck slammed into the side of one of the rail
cars,” Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu said in a press release.
“It appears the driver attempted to brake, but it was too late to avoid the collision. After striking the train, the truck spun into a railroad control box and the driver was ejected from the truck. When emergency personnel arrived, the driver was conscious, but suffering from head injuries requiring air ambulance transport to a local emergency room.”
The roadway was closed for about two hours while railroad crews repaired the safety equipment and the roadway was cleared. No persons on the train were injured. Padilla was cited for the collision.
Copper Springs Retirement Community
Every Day.
Every day of your life should be special. Often, we get so caught up in our day-to-day routine, that we lose sight of doing the things we truly love. Here at Copper Springs, we take great pride in bringing you peace-of-mind through our all-inclusive community to make sure every day of your life is special, like you.
Gilbert woman who starred in track and field to be inducted into Chico State Athletic Hall of Fame
Gilbert resident Denise Butticci Peck, a former Chico State soccer player and track and field athlete, will be inducted into the Chico State Athletic Hall of Fame on Saturday, Sept. 24, at Chico State’s Bell Memorial Union.
Among five First Team All-Americans in the history of the women’s soccer program, Butticci Peck was the top offensive threat on Chico State’s first NCAA Championship Tournament team in 1992.
She led the Northern California Athletic Conference with 13 goals that season, which is still the fifth most in the program’s single-season history. Three of those goals were game winners and helped the Wildcats win a school-record 15 times.
Butticci Peck finished her Chico State career with 22 goals, which still ranks sixth in program history, and her 47 career points rank ninth. Her goal and point totals remain tops among the program’s two-year players.
“Denise was one of the best players we have ever had at Chico State and her goal-scoring abilities made life hell on opponents,” said former coach Bob Russ. “She was a performer and leader and truly an inspiration to her peers and younger players alike.”
Putting the ball into the back of the net was not Butticci Peck’s only skill. She was also the Most Valuable Player during her one year of participation on the track and field team, and up until a few years ago, was still listed on the top-10 list in the 400-meter relay. She was also a two-time All-Academic selection.
Butticci Peck serves as the regional director of Southwest region and on the National Leadership Council for Biogen, one of the largest Biotech companies in the world.
Her son, Davis, recently committed to play collegiate soccer at Grand Canyon University.
Butticci Peck’s fellow inductees to the Chico State Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2016 will be: Kim Abts (Women’s Basketball, 2001-05), Steve Frankiewich (Men’s Track and Field, 1975-76), Sandra (Coombs) Newell (Women’s Track and Field, 1966-68), Toni Ruggle (Men’s Cross Country, 1973-76; Track and Field, 1974, 1976-78), Katie Stokx (Softball, 2002-05), Stan Urmann (Men’s Track and Field, 1974-75), Bao-Nhan Vinh (Baseball, 1999-2000), Aaron Weiny (Men’s Swimming, 1979-82) and honorary inductee Mary Ruby.
Orval Hughes, one of the key pieces in the foundation of the Chico State men’s soccer program and a long-time
cornerstone in the community of Chico, is this year’s recipient of the Mac Martin Award.
The 1975 NCAA Championship thirdplace men’s track and field team that Urmann and Frankiewich were both a part of will also be celebrated during the ceremony.
Tickets—$45 each or $340 for a table of eight—can be purchased by calling the Chico State Athletic Department at 530898-6470. The deadline to RSVP is Sept. 9. The event will begin with a social hour at 5:30 p.m., dinner will be served at 6:30, and the induction ceremony will follow.
Established in 1985, the Chico State Athletic Hall of Fame’s mission is to recognize and honor the outstanding achievements of its former students and the meritorious efforts of coaches, staff, alumni and friends on behalf of the University’s athletic department.
Induction to the Chico State Athletic Hall of Fame is based on an individual’s varsity athletic accomplishments at Chico State. Each must meet the following criteria: Completed at least two years with “unusual distinction” in one or more varsity intercollegiate programs, completed their collegiate athletic participation at Chico State, and completed their collegiate athletic eligibility at least 10 years prior to induction.
Honorary members of the Chico State Athletic Hall of Fame are individuals or teams that have contributed to the athletic department with distinction.
The Mac Martin Award is reserved for a former Chico State student-athlete who has distinguished him/herself in their postcollegiate career by bringing honor to the University, community and their vocation, just as Mac Martin did.
ComForCare Home Care to host dementia workshop
ComForCare Home Care is hosting a free workshop imparting best practices for caring for those with dementia. The event is Tuesday, Sept. 27, at Fellowship Square, 6945 E. Main St., Mesa. The workshop is part of ComForCare’s DementiaWise program, a nationwide program designed to enhance the lives of those living with dementia. ComForCare will host the workshop with Deborah Bier, PhD., director of special populations, as the virtual keynote speaker.
It will begin at 8 a.m. and is intended for health care professionals. It runs until 12:15 p.m. Registered nurses and social workers can earn three continuing education units.
Hosted by Gilbert resident Mark Young of ComForCare Home Care, the seminar, “Game-Changing Approaches to Dementia
Learn to craft a story from award-winning writer
Awardwinning writer
Marilyn June Janson, M.S., Ed., will conduct the following September creative writing workshops: Fiction and
Nonfiction Writing Workshop: Short stories, novels, novellas, young adult, manga and children’s. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesdays Sept. 14 to Oct. 5. Registration is $28 for residents; $38 for nonresidents. There is also a $10 copy fee paid to the instructor. The class is held at the Chandler Community Center Downtown, 125 N. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. To register, call 480-782-2727, or visit activenet011.active.com.
Family History and Memoir Writing Workshop: Creative nonfiction, culture, book length and short stories. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Mondays Sept. 12 to Oct. 3. Registration is $28 for Chandler residents; $38 nonresidents. There is a $10 fee paid to instructor. The class will be held at the Chandler Community Center Downtown, 202 E. Boston St., Chandler. To register, call 480-782-2727, or visit activenet011.active.com.
Care for Helping Professionals,” will educate attendees about dementia and how to manage its effects. The seminar will cover seven key concepts with an interactive component throughout each. Light refreshments will be provided. Headlining the workshop virtually is Deborah Bier, PhD., an expert on dementia, with a master’s in counseling psychology and a doctorate in therapeutic counseling. In addition, Bier is certified as an Alzheimer’s educator (National Certification Board for Alzheimer’s and Aging Care), dementia practitioner (National Council of Certified dementia practitioners and dementia care partners (Dementia Care Professionals of America, a division of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America).
Bier will cover these topics for professionals:
Preventing difficult dementia behavior. Types of dementia and their care needs.
Surprising sensory changes in dementia. How dementia complicates pain management.
Delirium and dementia: hidden epidemic.
Drugs that can make dementia worse. Working with challenging families. To register to attend, go to dementiawise.com or call 602-438-1300.
Founded in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, ComForCare Health Care Holdings Inc. has more than 172 franchise owners operating 200 territories in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom.
Fiction and Nonfiction Writing Workshop: Novels, short stories, creative nonfiction, young adult, children’s memoirs and family history. 10 a.m. to noon Saturdays Sept. 17 to Oct. 8. Registration fee is $60, with $10 paid to instructor. The class is held at the Southeast Regional Library, 775 N. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert. To register, call 480-503-6200 or visit gilbertrecreation. com.
Inspirational Fiction Writing Workshop: Learn to write in the genre of Karin Kingsbury and Jan Caron. Classes are held on Saturdays, Sept. 17 to Oct 8, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. The registration fee is $60, with $10 copy fee paid to instructor. The class is held at the Southeast Regional Library, 775 N. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert. To register, call 480-503-6200 or visit gilbertrecreation.com.
Gilbert resident Denise Butticci Peck was among five First Team All-Americans in the history of the Chico State women’s soccer program.
Marilyn June Janson
11 Critical
Home Inspection Traps to be Aware of Weeks Before Listing Your Gilbert Home for Sale
Gilbert - According to industry experts, there are over 33 physical problems that will come under scrutiny during a home inspection when your home is for sale. A new report has been prepared which identifies the eleven most common of these problems, and what you should know about them before you list your home for sale.
Whether you own an old home or a brand new one, there are a number of things that can fall short of requirements during a home inspection. If not identified and dealt with, any of these 11 items could cost you dearly in terms of repair. That’s why it’s critical that you read this report before you list your home. If you wait until the building inspector flags these issues for you, you will almost certainly experience costly delays in the close of your home sale or, worse, turn prospective buyers
away altogether. In most cases, you can make a reasonable pre-inspection yourself if you know what you’re looking for, and knowing what you’re looking for can help you prevent little problems from growing into costly and unmanageable ones.
To help homesellers deal with this issue before their homes are listed, a free report entitled “11 Things You Need to Know to Pass Your Home Inspection” has been compiled which explains the issues involved.
To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report call toll-free 1-800-495-0386 and enter 1003. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Get your free special report NOW to learn how to ensure a home inspection doesn’t cost you the sale of your home.
Farmers Market
1. Patti Hardy sells grandkid-approved freezer jam. 2. Anne Magruder and Sarah Goodwin chat over a cup of coffee. 3. Rocio Enge sells pasta with an integrated sauce. 4. Cheyenne Smith and Charger take a break from their walk. 5. Farmer Korin Creech displays her produce. 6. Andrea Stines sells herbal spritzers. 7. Amy Lewis sells sweets, including Pokemon cookies. 8. Raquel Mariscl and Sarah Jones try a salsa.
It was business as usual at the Gilbert Farmers Market on a recent Saturday. Folks turned up at the stalls just west of the Water Tower keen to stock up on fresh organic produce with the soil still clinging to its roots and the morning dew on the leaves, farm eggs, local honey, olive oil and homemade goodies just to name a few of the offerings. On a given market day, there are nearly 60 vendors during the summer months, while about 100 are available in the cooler months of fall and spring. Visit gilbertmarket.com for more information. 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Pinners coming together at WestWorld this October
BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
The Pinners Conference + Expo is bringing Pinterest to life with a two-day event at WestWorld in Scottsdale in October.
Set for Friday, Oct. 7, and Saturday, Oct. 8, the Pinners Conference + Expo is the only major creative conference of its kind and will connect consumers, brands and influencers. Tickets are available for $7 (regular admission) to $49 (full weekend pass) at az.pinnersconference.com.
“Pinners’ goal is to facilitate an inspiring experience for women,” said Roxanne Bennett, event coordinator for the Provo, Utah-based Pinners Conference.
“Our hope is that every attendee leaves feeling enlightened, encouraged, creative and happy. Pinners is the creative event revolution everyone has been waiting for. You’ll quickly notice this isn’t just another craft show.”
It’s not a craft show at all, according to Bennett. She networks to find the best in exhibitors, vendors and presenters for the events, which appeal to a wide audience.
“It’s a whole generational thing,” she said. “Grandmas, moms and granddaughters can all find something specific that they’re excited about. It’s a variety of cool things.”
Pinners Conference was created by Bennett Events in 2013 to update the creative and learning industry and its
events. The 15-member team plans to expand from four events this year to six by 2017. Bennett’s husband, Kendall, came up with the idea.
“He thought there was an opportunity to put the business owner, the retailer, the wholesalers, consumer and influencer all in one location,” she said.
“We all need to connect with one another. This brings all of that together. It’s kind of magical.”
The Scottsdale conference will be the Pinners’ first in the state and orga -
nizers expect up to 10,000 attendees to experience the expo. Three previous shows in Salt Lake City average 12,000 visitors per year. Now in its fourth year, the conference is also expanding to Dallas-Fort Worth and Atlanta over the next 12 months.
Women from across the nation attend Pinners to learn, create and shop all the creative ideas they have seen, pinned and discovered online. The conference includes 100 classes and a full trade show featuring more than 230
popular shops. Pinners select the best of the best to teach classes at each conference.
Pinners’ presenters will be chosen from the best of the following categories: beauty and fashion, DIY and crafts, lifestyle and learning, food arts, home and home decor, quilting and sewing, party planning, photography and health and fitness.
“Pinners Conference allows attendees to customize their most creative weekend imaginable,” Bennett added. “It connects the blogger, the retailer, wholesaler and the consumer in a faceto-face environment during a weekend of customizable fun. Women typically do so much for others, but feel guilty about taking time for themselves. We hope to give them a chance to learn, create and connect together in one fun packed weekend.”
Pinners Conference + Expo attendees get to meet and learn from some of the most inspiring, creative experts on the web under one roof.
“People think it’s a blogger event,” she said. “But it’s really for the consumer. It’s for the average mom who really wants to have a weekend to be inspired. If you’re not on Pinterest, that doesn’t matter. If you want to learn something cool, this is the place.”
For more information about Pinners Conference + Expo, go to pinnersconference.com/.
Gilbert golf pro scores birdie with Southwest PGA appointment
BY TIM J. RANDALL
Jay Larscheid always wanted to be involved in golf.
“I latched onto the game and have spent years learning about it, and doing just about everything related to it,” said Larscheid, of Gilbert.
Larscheid, general manager of Sunland Springs Golf Club in Mesa, recently added another position to his resume with his appointment as secretary of the Southwest Section of the PGA’s executive committee.
Larscheid, along with new board members Doug Hodge, Trent Rathbun, Mike Scully and Al Sutton, will work to advance the mission of the PGA, which celebrates its centennial this year.
“It is all about serving our members and growing the game,” Larscheid said.
The Southwest Section is the fifth-largest of the 41 across the country, serving more than 1,300 of the PGA’s 28,000 members, according to the organization’s website.
From South Dakota, Larscheid moved to Arizona in 1986 and and went to work at McCormick Ranch Golf Club in Scottsdale on the grounds crew. He worked his way
up to assistant golf professional, head golf pro and director of golf. In 1997, he earned his PGA membership. His big break came in 2001 when he was hired as general manager at Longbow Golf Club in Mesa.
He was Longbow’s GM for 15 years before moving to Sunland in January.
Larscheid began working with the Southwest Section in 2008 as junior golf and special awards committee chairman. In 2010 he was elected to the Board of Directors.
“Jay brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Southwest PGA Board of Directors in his new role as secretary,” said Greg Leicht, president of the Southwest PGA. “His passion and commitment to advancing the Southwest PGA and our members is self evident, and we are very fortunate to have him serving our section for many years to come.”
In his new role, Larscheid will focus primarily on member services and education.
“I am excited and have a passion to be part of it,” he said.
While the typical term is two years,
Larscheid will serve one because he is filling a vacated seat.
“I will be running for vice president in 2017,” he said.
The priority of the PGA and Southwest Section is to expand the reach of the game. Larscheid acknowledges the challenge.
“Golf’s numbers are struggling and the biggest issue is keeping people interested,” he said. “Pace of play, time and commitment; we have to find ways to keep people engaged.”
To that end, Larscheid is excited about programs that work to bring youth into the game, such as the PGA Junior League program, which brings a competitive team formula for kids playing golf.
“It is really blowing up across the country,” Larscheid said.
He also notes that events like the national Drive, Chip and Putt Contest are bringing in young players. More broadly though, Larscheid believes that innovative approaches that reduce the time commitment to golf for the average player are important.
“We need to offer more nine- and five-
hole rounds not just 18 holes,” he said. “I think we are on the upswing.”
Leicht knows he has real talent to drive the Southwest Section’s mission.
“We are delighted to welcome the four new members. Each of them has an incredible level of enthusiasm and commitment to the Southwest PGA, the PGA Professional and the game of golf,” said Leicht. “Their desire to volunteer their time and expertise is inspiring and reinforces the mission of the PGA of America and Southwest PGA – to establish and elevate the standards of the profession and to grow interest and participation in the game of golf.”
As for Larscheid, his excitement about the game is undeniable and he enjoys sharing his opinions.
“Best course I have played in Arizona, besides Sunland Springs, he quips: Forest Highlands and Arizona Country Club. The best ever I have played: Saint Andrews.” For more information about the Southwest PGA, visit southwest.pga.com.
The Six Sisters teach a cooking class at Pinners Conference.
Native Grill & Wings opens restaurant in Gilbert
Chandler-based Native Grill & Wings has opened its latest restaurant at 4341 E. Baseline Rd., in Gilbert. Native Grill & Wings celebrated the new restaurant by raising money for the Gilbert High Tigers football team, and providing food and drink specials.
Native Grill & Wings hosted a VIP night at the new restaurant, where members of the franchise support team and other Native Grill & Wings business owners were invited to dine with guests of the Gilbert High Tiger Football organization. During this event, 50% of the night’s proceeds went to the Gilbert football team and yielded $1,500 for the boys. Native Grill & Wings presented the check to the team during its ribbon-cutting ceremony on Aug. 8.
Amid national expansion, Native Grill & Wings CEO Dan Chaon is excited to continue to grow the brand at home in Arizona. “Native Grill & Wings has
trbecome an Arizona staple,” said Chaon. “We hope to see the city remain a hub for chicken-wing lovers who have remained devoted to the Native name for decades.”
Native Grill & Wings focuses on food and being family-friendly. The polished sports grill offers 20 wing flavors—from strawberry hot to ancho chile lime, Asian garlic to honey chipotle—that guests can order by the individual wing, as well as an
extensive menu of burgers, sandwiches and salads. Most of the sauces and rubs can be used to customize other menu items.
The restaurants are divided into a bar and restaurant, with approximately 30 to 40 flat-screen TVs throughout, offering sports coverage for families and serious fans, and a customer base spanning all generations—baby boomers, Generation
Xers, and millennials.
Guests can enjoy any of the new restaurant’s daily specials including: $2 Bloody Marys on Sundays, the $8 burger and brew special on Mondays, 59-cent wings on Tuesdays, boneless wing specials on Wednesdays, and chicken strip specials on Thursdays.
For more information, visit nativegrillandwings.com/.
Native Grill & Wings has opened at 4341 E. Baseline Rd. in Gilbert.
Jackie’s Café owner now cooking for wider range of friends
BY KATHY KERBY
A self-taught chef, Jackie Johnson had always loved to cook for her family and friends, and she wanted to share her home cooking with the community.
It was only natural, then, that her interests led to creation of Jackie’s Café in May in the Cottonwood Professional Plaza on Cooper Road just south of Guadalupe.
Johnson designed the interior of the bright, open dining room with homespun items in a cozy seating area, using wicker furniture, lots of plants, dark-wood tables and chairs and a color palate of gold, green and burnt orange. The kitchen, where customers can watch Jackie work her magic, is simple with few frills.
The Maryland-born Johnson truly is a one-woman show as hostess, waitress, cook and cashier. She even buses the tables. She seems to do it all effortlessly, without hurrying or losing her friendly smile and gentle manner.
For breakfast, there are six options. Quiche is served only on Friday and Saturday. The Prosciutto Kerry Gold Cheese Omelet ($6.80), with its farm-fresh eggs, prosciutto, ham, bacon, Swiss cheese and Kerry Gold Cheese topped with chives, was tender and fluffy and each bite was packed with flavor. The omelet comes
with a side of wheat or potato toast and a side of crispy hash browns is a dollar extra.
The Cheese Egg Royalty ($5), a Jackie original, was a tasty blend of scrambled soft eggs and assorted cheeses. Jackie wouldn’t reveal her secret cheese blend but I could tell that Swiss, goat cheese and cheddar were in the mix.
Bacon, ham, or a fruit cup can be added for $2.
For lunch, Jackie offers seven sandwiches and six salads. She loves her “Jackie Babies Café” menu, which has options just for kids.
The Big Meat Treat Roast Beef Sandwich ($9) had layers of juicy, tender, slowcooked roast beef stacked on three layers of potato bread with Swiss cheese and friend onions.
Each sandwich comes with a choice of summer linguine pasta, cucumber salad, chips, fruit or yogurt. The summer linguine pasta tasted as good as it sounds with pasta, carrots, broccoli, tomatoes, cucumbers and onions all swimming in a tangy dressing.
A bacon-lettuce-tomato is the perfect summer sandwich and the “Apple Bacon BLT” ($6.99) was perfectly prepared with smoked Applewood bacon on toasted wheat, lightly coated with mayonnaise and
topped with crisp romaine lettuce and fresh tomatoes.
Desserts vary each day and Jackie’s customers can request their favorites. A slice of the dense Double Fudge Chocolate Chip Brownie Cake ($1.25.) is so rich it tastes just like fudge. Jackie’s Lemon Cake ($1.25) is a Bundt cake with a drizzle of powdered sugar and lemon frosting. It tastes just like my grandma’s with lemony flavor that is tangy but not overpowering.
Jackie’s Café is a place to sit, relax and enjoy breakfast or lunch in a serene setting.
The Jackie’s Cafe sandwiches are served with cucumbers, fruit or summer linguine pasta.
The Cheese Egg Royal is a Jackie original with eggs and her secret cheese
The kitchen is simple with few frills where Jackie works her magic.
Grandil named Arizona National Livestock Show executive director
Pizza Factory increasing its share of the pie with move to Gilbert
With 113 stores in six states, Pizza Factory has announced plans to move into Gilbert, although the exact location has yet to be revealed.
The company prides itself on supporting the community and developing strong bonds with their neighbors.
“The role we play in the communities we serve goes well beyond just being the best place in the neighborhood for pizza,” said Mary Jane Riva, president and CEO of Pizza Factory.
“And, from the beginning of their journey with us, our franchisees are drawn to the brand because of the sincere connections we have with our fans. We are growing our footprint into neighborhoods big and small where we know our awesome people, product and philanthropic partnerships will be valued and Gilbert has exactly what we are looking for.”
Pizza Factory has established a solid reputation already in the West and its growth strategy reflects this stronghold on the region, where it can properly support locations through marketing and operations programs.
The high-level of support Pizza Factory offers its franchisees has provided significant scalability for franchisees, many of which have opened multiple locations or have plans to do so.
With a strategic plan in place, Pizza Factory will grow into Gilbert and is now accepting franchisee inquiries. Pizza Factory will be a welcomed addition to Gilbert because it has such a strong sense of community with a great balance of residential and business buildings, Riva said.
“We also have a strong commitment to helping our franchisees reach their performance and growth goals,” added Riva. “The majority of our franchisees work in their restaurants and live in the communities they serve. They care deeply about their customers, their business and making a difference. We assist in every way possible to ensure our franchisees’ restaurants radiate the welcoming neighborhood feel we all have come to know and love.”
The brand’s slogan “We Toss ’Em, They’re Awesome!” is well-known among guests who cherish their hand-tossed pizzas, as well as the fresh, handmade pastas, sandwiches and salads featured on the menu. Unlike similar pizza concepts, Pizza Factory uses only fresh, hand-grated 100% mozzarella cheese, slow-cooked meat sauce and meatballs that are hand rolled in-house.
The fast-casual pizzeria allows guests to order at the counter before their food is delivered tableside.
In support of the towns Pizza Factory calls home, it launched the well-known “No Bully Zone” program that raises awareness about the prevalence of bullying in schools and throughout the community. Through community partnerships, Pizza Factory fights to put an end to harsh bullying wherever and whenever it occurs. In addition, Pizza Factory also offers fundraising programs to support local schools, youth sports leagues, as well as other community groups and organizations.
To learn more about Pizza Factory, visit pizzafactory.com. For information about available franchise opportunities, visit pizzafactoryfranchises.com/.
Gilbert Yoga offers classes in all forms and varieties
Gilbert Yoga offers about 50 regular classes a week, as well as dozens of special events to appeal to a wider clientele. The business is located at 6 Palo Verde St, suite #11 in Gilbert. Following are some of the upcoming specialty classes; call 480-225-1181 or visit gilbertyoga.com for more details.
The Doctor is In!
What: Naturopathic physician Carlos Santo, N.M.D., offers naturopathic health counseling, acupuncture and spinal manipulation for conditions such as hormone imbalance, acute and chronic pain, weight management and mood disorders.
Details: Call 480-225-1181. Also visit drcarlossanto.com.
Soul-Monic Sound Journey
What: An experience blending shamanic technique and sound healing. Three Trees from Sedona will focus on the therapeutic powers of the drums, didgeridoo, crystal bowls, halo drum, vocal toning and chimes and rattles, allowing participants to reach new depths of healing and awakening.
When: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 24.
Cost: $25 at the door (cash only).
Mindful Living Series
What: Mindfulness practitioner/ educator Lanita Ugstad presents a three-class series offering participants teachings and tools for experiencing the healing benefits of mindful living. The series will involve mindful breath techniques and guided meditations as students gain first-hand knowledge and experience of their own presence.
When: 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sept. 6 and 13.
Cost: $65 per participant.
Details: 520-873-7307 via text or call.
Little Wiggle Yoga
What: Instructor Lizzy Stein welcomes mothers with young babies to
participate in an all-levels class. Learn infant massage techniques and poses that benefit both you and baby to strengthen bonds with the little one.
When: 1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. on Thursdays starting Sept. 1.
Cost: $12 cash or a class pass.
Details: WiggleGiggleYoga@gmail. com.
Yoga to Relieve Depression and Anxiety
What: Yoga is a powerful practice that can help reclaim joy and peace. Join Connie Stultz for a special series to relieve depression and anxiety based on the LifeForce yoga program internationally used by yoga therapists and mental health professionals. Learn a combination of postures, breath work, imagery, intention setting and meditation to manage your mood. When: A five-part series from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays Sept. 10, 17 and 24, and Oct. 1 and 8.
Cost: $120, pre-registration is required. Details: Email connie.stultz@gmail. com or call 480-440-0250.
Childbirth Education Class
What: Learn about physical changes during pregnancy, labor and birth, stages of labor, breathing and relaxation techniques and other topics. Instructor Pam Moran is an independent childbirth educator and prenatal yoga teacher. When: 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10 and Sunday, Sept. 11. Cost: $80 for the two-day series. Details: Call or text 949-444-1216.
Yoga for Runners and Athletes
What: Lisa Hecke’s workshop focus will be hamstring stretches. Tight hamstrings is a major causes for lower back pain, knee pain and calf pain. When: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 25.
Cost: $20 to pre-register by Sept. 24 or $25 at the door.
Gilbert pizza fans may look forward to neighborhood Pizza Factory locations such as this one.
Gilbert realtor Jay Almeida gives back to community with My Hero House program
By Alison Stanton
As programs director and a Realtor with The Almeida Group, RE/MAX
Infinity Realty, Jay Almeida enjoys working with a variety of buyers and sellers.
The Gilbert resident—who has been in the real estate industry for 12 years and with RE/MAX for almost four years—focuses on helping clients in the Southeast Valley.
“I work primarily in residential real estate, although I have a guy on my team who can facilitate commercial real estate and investments,” he said.
Almeida, who grew up “roping and riding” in the then-small rural community of Lehi, said he initially started his career in the lending industry.
Almost every day, Almeida said he uses the knowledge he acquired from working in the lending industry when working with clients.
“My background in lending brings a whole other set of skills. I can assess where my clients are at and guide them through the whole lending process,” he said.
“I know that for people who try to get
qualified to buy a house and get turned down that it is sometimes not a question of if they will qualify but when.”
Almeida, a self-described military brat, said he always enjoys working with members of the military and helping them achieve their dream of becoming homeowners.
“Also, a lot of my friends are first responders; my late wife Terri was an ICU nurse and I found myself saturated with nurses and firefighters. It is really a small world with them,” he said.
In order to help as many members of the military and first responders as possible to buy a home, Almeida started a program called My Hero House.
“A lot of the programs out there say they help these people but they really don’t, so I decided to start my own,” he said.
“Twenty-five percent of my commission goes back to the individual who is going through the My Hero House program.”
“It is just my way to give back.”
Though My Hero House, Almeida said he has been able to help families buy a home who might otherwise not been able to.
Although no two clients are ever the same, Almeida said he consistently enjoys meeting people and learning their stories.
“They say you have to be a people person to get into real estate, and I enjoy helping people,” he said.
“I know there are a lot of big-time agents who complete hundreds of transactions and have a huge team, but it often takes the personal touch out of it.”
Almeida recalls working with one family in the My Hero House program who was a “major challenge” in regards to their credit.
“Through my prior work as a lender I could advise them on getting ready to purchase a house,” he said.
“It was a long haul and there were lots for them to do, but they were very deserving.”
The Almeida Group, RE/MAX Infinity Realty is located at 2450 S. Arizona Ave., Suite 1, in Chandler. For more information, call 480-433-9190 or visit eastvalleyrealtor.com. For more information on MyHeroHouse.com visit facebook.com/myherohouse.
Realtor Jay Almeida uses his background in lending to guide people through the entire process of qualifying for and buying a home. He is also devoted to helping members of the military and first responders become homeowners through his MyHeroHouse.com program.
Lakeview Village at Morrison Ranch sells for $17.97 million
Lakeview Village, a grocery-anchored neighborhood shopping center located in the Morrison Ranch master-planned community, sold for $17.97 million. Cushman & Wakefield Executive Managing Directors Michael Hackett and Ryan Schubert represented the seller, Lakeview Village Center LLC (a company formed by North American Development Group and Morrison Ranch). The buyer was Vestar Lakeview LLC.
Spanning 16.2-acres, Lakeview Village at Morrison Ranch contains 93,741square-foot of retail space. The center’s anchor, Bashas’, occupies approximately
55.9% of the total leasable space in the property. Additionally, Lakeview Village is host to an array of other national retailers such as Bank of America, Panda Express, Great Clips, UPS, H&R Block, Edward Jones and Subway. The property was 96.9% leased at the time of sale.
“Lakeview Village’s grocery anchor on a ground lease, credit outparcels on ground leases and additional land for development made this a highly soughtafter asset,” Hackett said. “Morrison Ranch is a very high quality masterplanned community and Lakeview Village is one of the few commercial properties servicing the area.”
Lakeview Village is the only retail center that services the 3,000-acre Morrison Ranch masterplanned community and its seven residential neighborhoods.
Gilbert Historical Museum
Community Center
Boys & Girls Club
Valor Chrisitian Center
Gilbert Public Schools District Office
Connect - Inspire - Go
Event brings East Valley women together
BY TISHA MARIE PELLETIER
If you are a woman in business, there is a good chance you are looking to attend events that not only introduce you to the right connections, but also inspire you to keep moving forward with your vision. Rather than attend multiple events trying to find the right mix, what if there was one event designed to do that for you and more?
Hosted by women business owners Shanna Tingom of Heritage Financial Services and Becky Cholewka of Cholewka Law, Connect –Inspire – Go Conference was established with one purpose in mind; to provide women an opportunity to meet other local women, gain inspiration, and find help designing the direction they want to go tomorrow.
Scheduled for 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28, at the Higley Performing Arts Center, the event features main stage speakers Vanessa Shaw, international business and success coach, and Elizabeth Havlicek, a
two-time
TEDx presenter. There are six breakout sessions, a vendor alley, swag bag, door prizes, snack and a light dinner for all attendees.
Connecting with other fabulous women, networking, sensational keynote speakers and being inspired to go...
The motivation for the event began when co-host and sponsor Shanna Tingom realized there were no women’s conferences in the Gilbert area where she has lived and worked for the past 12 years.
“This event has been more than a year in the making and is the result of Becky and I being frustrated that every ‘cool’ women’s conference in the area required us to go to Scottsdale or Phoenix,” says Tingom.
Because she and Cholewka are both from Gilbert, the idea went off without a hitch. “Shanna and I know from being involved in Gilbert events for many years that there is a strong and powerful women’s community in the East Valley, and we wanted to give them a voice,” says Cholewka, founding attorney of Cholewka
Law. “Our mission is to encourage and empower women right in their own backyard.”
Women attending the event can expect to be welcomed into an environment with other like-minded, women entrepreneurs ready to share their knowledge of what has worked in their business, and what has not. Through dynamic presentations and breakout sessions, this jam-packed conference covers every aspect of being a woman in business. Presentations range from transitioning from an employee to an entrepreneur to time management strategies, how to overcome obstacles, increasing innovation and productivity, uncovering worthiness, goal planning and other desirable topics.
Chandler resident Tabitha Dumas, a certified image consultant and entrepreneur, was among the first women to purchase her ticket to the event.
“Connecting with other fabulous women, networking, sensational keynote speakers and being inspired to go apply what I’ve learned? Yes, please. I know anything Becky and Shanna are hosting is going to be phenomenal so I signed up right away,” says Dumas.
To learn more about the Connect – Inspire – Go Conference, full speaker lineup and ticket pricing, visit connectinspirego2016.eventbrite.com (Use discount code CIGGW16 to save 50% on single ticket purchase). Please note tickets are limited.
Grabbagreen headed to Gilbert
Arizona-based food and juice restaurant, Grabbagreen, has signed a franchise agreement with Stacy and Brad Rendell of Healthy Living Holdings Inc. to bring a store to Rivulon Center this year.
The Grabbagreen concept is in tune with the growing demand for healthy, fresh-made foods.
Grabbagreen provides its customers with a fresh and healthy alternative to fast food, aiming to make nutrition delicious, quick and convenient, and to provide every customer with an extraordinary health experience unlike any they’ve ever tasted.
“We can’t tell you how thrilled our customers who drive out to Scottsdale and downtown Phoenix are to be getting a Gilbert location,” said Keely Newman, CEO and co-founder of Grabbagreen.
“We are excited to have the Rendells join our Grabbagreen family and excited to have them represent our brand here in Arizona.”
The whole food menu is preservativefree, naturally gluten-free, GMO free
and semi-organic. Grabbagreen offers a full selection of pre-designed grain and green-based bowls with fresh hormonefree and antibiotic-free proteins provided by local farms, fresh-pressed juice, handcrafted smoothies and acai bowls, breakfast and healthy kid-friendly items. All signature menu items are prepared fresh, made-toorder and provide a delicious experience for customers and a variety of flavors to meet dietary needs.
Awarding its first franchise in May 2015, Grabbagreen has found success, signing more than 50 franchise agreements and over 180 development agreements. Between now and the end of the year, Grabbagreen plans to open at least 15 new restaurants in Florida, Texas, California, North Carolina, Minnesota, Colorado, Idaho, New Jersey, Tennessee and 3 new stores in Arizona including Tatum/Bell, Tempe and now Gilbert. For more information on Grabbagreen, visit grabbagreen.com.
Gabbagreen hallmarks are fresh juice, greens.
Grabbagreen, coming to Rivulon Center, offers organic food on the go.
Berkshire Hathaway receives national recognition
Eight Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices teams and two individual real estate sales executives have been recognized among the leading professionals in American real estate, according to REAL Trends’ The Thousand. REAL Trends, in conjunction with The Wall Street Journal, recently published “The Thousand” list of America’s top 1,000 real estate sales professionals and teams.
Designees are recognized as the top .5% of more than 1.1 million licensed Realtors® nationwide. The Thousand is divided into four categories, each listing the top 250 designees: Individual Agent—Sales Volume; Individual Agent—Transaction Sides; Agent Team—Sales Volume and Agent Team— Transaction Sides.
“Our teams were among the top in Arizona for sides, or number of transactions,” said Mark Stark, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Arizona Properties. “And our top six teams represented $258 million in Arizona real estate sales last year. Berkshire Hathaway is the leading name in real estate and it shows with the REAL Trends/Wall Street Journal rankings.”
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Arizona Properties executives recognized in “The Thousand” included:
Individuals by Transaction Sides: No. 54 Olga Griffin 58 transactions
Individuals by Sales Volume: No. 14 Linda Salkow $27 million
Teams by Transaction Sides:
No. 45 The Chandler Ocotillo Group 132 transactions No. 49 Team Santistevan 129 transactions No. 51 Alan Levanson Team 126 transactions No. 68 Sterling Elite Properties Group 100 transactions
No. 97 The Berrett Team 79 transactions No. 103 The Olberding Team 77 transactions
Teams by Sales Volume:
Rank No. 9 The Power of 4 $77 million
Rank No. 23 Sterling Elite Properties
Group $48 million
Rank No. 34 Team Santistevan $38 million
Rank No. 45 The Chandler Ocotillo
Group $34 million
Rank No. 53 Alan Levanson Team $31 million
Rank No. 54 Colleen Seymour & Associates $30 million
“Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is home to some of Arizona’s most successful real estate sales executives and teams,” said Stark. “We’re proud to be their partners in representing their clients and marketing properties both locally and internationally.”
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Arizona Properties is a part of Americana Holdings, which also includes Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Nevada Properties and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties. The firms are leaders in their respective markets with 25 offices and 2,000 agents, comprising the largest independently owned Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices franchise in the world. Combined, the companies sold $3.1 billion in real estate in 2015.
In 2014, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices was named “Real Estate Agency Brand of the Year” by consumers in the 26th annual Harris Poll EquiTrend study of the largest real estate networks. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices has
54,000 agents in 1,600 offices around the world.
For more information, visit bhhsaz.com or call 480-505-6300.
Rebecca Rains is with The Chandler Ocotillo Group.
Gilbert FedEx driver places in top 30 at national truck driving championships
Michael Ortiz, driver of Gilbert-based KBJ Holdings Inc., represented FedEx Ground, and his employer, Kenneth McCaffrey, in the National Truck Driving Championships (NTDC) in Indianapolis in August and placed in the top 30 in the Step Van competition.
Ortiz earned the right to compete in the NTDC by winning at the Arizona truck driving championships earlier this year. The American Trucking Associations (ATA) sponsors the NTDC, which is designed to recognize industry leadership in safety and to promote professionalism among truck drivers.
“Our mission statement says that safety will be the first consideration in all our operations,” said Frederick W. Smith, chairman and CEO, FedEx Corp. “The accomplishments of these 174 finalists and the almost 2,000 drivers that competed at the state truck driving championship level serve as tremendous examples of the FedEx commitment to safety.”
Here are some facts about Michael Ortiz:
He has been a driver for nine years with 337,500 miles accident-free.
He operates out of FedEx Ground’s station in Chandler and has been driving on FedEx Ground’s behalf for nine years. This was his first time competing at NTDC.
At the NTDC, the FedEx drivers competed against nearly 450 competitors vying for national titles in nine different classes of vehicles and for the National Grand Champion title. The drivers accumulated points by demonstrating their driving skills and knowledge of the industry through a written exam, pre-trip inspection and driving-skills challenge.
In 2015, 151 driving professionals from 48 states representing FedEx Freight, FedEx Ground, FedEx Express, and FedEx Custom Critical qualified to compete at the National Truck Driving Championships by winning their respective state’s competition and driving accident-free
for at least one year. Five drivers representing FedEx captured National Champion titles at the 2015 National Truck Driving Championships in St. Louis, Missouri. In addition, a FedEx Freight driver was named National Rookie of the Year and nine other FedEx drivers earned topthree finishes in their respective vehicle classes. With 38 National Champions, three National Grand Champion and five Rookie of the Year titles in the past 13 years, Team FedEx has established a reputation for excellence at the NTDC.
FedEx Ground, a subsidiary of FedEx
Corp., is a leader in cost-effective, small-package ground shipping, offering dependable service to businesses and residential customers throughout the United States and Canada. FedEx Ground is faster to more locations than its primary competitor and includes residential services such as home delivery and SmartPost, which specializes in the delivery of lowweight packages from businesses to residential customers through a partnership with the U.S. Postal Service. Through a network of more than 80,000 employees, 560 distribution hubs and local pickup-anddelivery stations, and 52,000 motorized vehicles, FedEx Ground transports more than 7.5 million packages daily. The company reported annual revenue of $16.6 billion in fiscal year 2016.
Chamber hosts business chats, welcomes new members
Throughout the year, the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce offers a variety of luncheons and meetings for its members and the community. Events are held throughout the town. The chamber office is at 119 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101. For more information about events or to register, call 480-892-0056 or visit gilbertaz.com.
Chamber Chat—Midday
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 6
Presented by Woodard Construction LLC
Zappone’s Italian Bistro
1652 N. Higley Rd., Suite 103, Gilbert 85234
Enjoy lunch and conversation with local professionals. This informal gathering is a fun way to share conversation with other professionals while learning more about businesses and services within our community. Come prepared to meet new friends and build lasting relationships. No agenda; no script—just good food, great company and friendly conversation. Admission is $10 at the door. Price includes lunch buffet and tax.
Engineering: Getting from Here to a Career
4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13
Presented by Partners in Progress GPS Community Education Building 6839 E. Guadalupe Rd., Mesa 85212
Join the group for an interactive panel discussion as it hears from professionals who have expertise in various disciplines of engineering. Panelists will share their
educational and professional journeys and will help patrons understand the many opportunities that exist within the study of engineering. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain an inside look at this career path. Admission: Free; this event is open to students and community members of all ages.
Good Government Roundtable with Gilbert Public Schools
7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 20
Presented by SRP
Gilbert Public Schools Board Room, 140 S. Gilbert Rd., Gilbert 85296
An event of SRP’s Good Government series, this will bring together governing board members and leaders of Gilbert Public Schools with the business community for a discussion on the latest local, regional and national issues in education. Join the Chamber for this meet and greet event, ask questions and provide feedback that will contribute to a vibrant business community. Admission: $20 for members; $35 for nonmembers. Price includes breakfast.
Community Travel Informational Meeting—Discover Pompeii & Amalfi
4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 20
Presented by Chamber Discoveries
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
119 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101
Gilbert 85234
Join the chamber for an informational
meeting to learn more about this all-inclusive travel opportunity. A representative of Chamber Discoveries will review the travel itinerary and answer general questions regarding the Pompeii & Amalfi expedition. No travel commitment necessary to attend this meeting. Admission: Free to attend; No commitment required.
Chamber Chat—After Hours
4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22
Presented by Magic Pest Control
Tacos N’ More Mexican Grill 4622 S. Higley Rd., Suite 101, Gilbert 85297
Meet up with local professionals. This informal gathering is a fun way to share conversation with other professionals while learning more about businesses and services within the community. Come prepared to meet new friends and build lasting relationships. No agenda; no script—just good food, great company and friendly conversation. Admission: $10 at the door. Price includes appetizer buffet and tax.
The 411—Membership Orientation
7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28
Presented by Printwerx
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
119 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101, Gilbert 85234
The 411 is a comprehensive membership orientation at which Chamber members will learn how to maximize the benefits of their investment. Gain an insider’s view
of its programs and services, ask questions of Chamber staff, and develop an action plan for Chamber engagement and success. Admission: Free event for current and prospective members.
Vision to Launch
5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 29
Presented by the Small Business Council Brunswick Zone XL 1160 S. Gilbert Rd., Gilbert 85296
This event will feature Gelie Akhenblit, CEO and founder of NetworkingPhoenix. Akhenblit is an entrepreneur, speaker, mother and mentor who has altered the landscape of networking in the Valley, and now nationally, by visualizing, creating, and launching an online platform that has democratized how people connect inperson. Admission: $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Price includes appetizers.
Chamber Chat - Midday
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 4
Dragon Wok Fine Chinese Restaurant 727 W. Ray Rd., Suite B1, Gilbert 85233
Enjoy lunch and conversation with local professionals. This informal gathering is a fun way to share conversation with other professionals while learning more about businesses and services within the community. Come prepared to meet new friends and build lasting relationships. No agenda; no script—just good food, great
Michael Ortiz is a driver for Gilbert-based KBJ Holdings Inc.
Football with breakfast
company and friendly conversation.
Admission: $10 at the door. Price includes lunch buffet and tax.
East Valley Business Expo
2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5
Mesa Convention Center, 263 N. Center St., Mesa 85201
As the largest annual event of its kind in the East Valley, the expo provides a dynamic setting for both businessto-business and business-to-consumer outreach. Gift cards, door prizes, raffles and giveaways and more. The expo is a joint production of the Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert and Mesa chambers of commerce and draws exhibitors, attendees and talent from these organizations. Admission: Free with a business card.
iRun4Good 5K, Fun Run, and Community Fair
8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 22
Presented by Dignity Health and Benefiting the Gilbert Police Department’s Domestic Violence Relief Fund
Freestone Park, 1045 E. Juniper Ave. Gilbert 85234
The Gilbert Chamber has partnered with For Our City Gilbert and the Gilbert Police Department for iRun4Good—a 5K, Fun Run and Community Fair to
raise awareness of domestic violence and raise funds to benefit the police department’s Family Violence Unit. This is a great opportunity to rally for the good of the community and raise awareness while having fun and making a positive difference in Gilbert. Faith-groups, nonprofits, businesses, schools, individuals and local government are all invited to participate. All net proceeds will be donated to benefit victims of domestic violence. A community fair will take place before, during and after the race with information on community services and resources. Admission: Runner registration and pricing available online at irun4good. org. Community Fair Booth Registration available online at gilbertaz.com.
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce has welcomed a host of new businesses. Among those are:
Automotive/Glass
Sharper Image Glass Works
Bill Cotten
85 W. Combs Rd., Suite 101 San Tan Valley, 85140 480-627-9499
sharperimageglassworks.com
Chiropractors
Legacy Chiropractic
Eric Hutchison
91 N. Val Vista Dr., Suite 102, Gilbert 85234
480-426-0966
legacygilbert.com
Consultants-Business
Existential Consulting Group
Glen Porter
6601 S. Classic Way, Gilbert 85298 480-420-6776 EXConsultingGroup.com
Entertainment-Party Supplies
Party Paradise
Dave Krause
4902 S. Val Vista Dr., Suite B-104, Gilbert 85298 480-726-2946
Financial Planning and Services
Merrill Lynch - Fred Arbona Fred Arbona 6402 E. Superstition Spring Blvd., Suite 114, Mesa 85206 480-324-2936
Insurance
Liberty Mutual Insurance
Casey Payne 6909 W. Ray Rd., Suite 29, Chandler 85226 480-211-5118 libertymutual.com/caseypayne
Real Estate
The Poling Team Real Estate, Hyres
International Real Estate Jody Poling
480-221-6570
Residential
Realty ONE Group - Allan M. Hostetler
Allan Hostetler
3530 S. Val Vista Dr., Suite 114 Gilbert 85297 480-343-7177 allanhostetler.com
Restaurants
Noodles & Company
Corie King 2975 S. Market St. Gilbert 85295 480-963-0255 noodles.com
Retail-Specialty
Emerald Palace
Tim Hammer 175 S. Hamilton Pl., Ste. 110 Gilbert 85233
480-361-0078 emeraldpalaceaz.com
Schools-Colleges
Grand Canyon University
Donna Black 3300 W. Camelback Rd. Phoenix 85017
480-559-1865
PRIVATE. CHRISTIAN. AFFORDABLE.
Start Strong, Finish Strong
Early Graduation
Fast-track options help students accelerate toward graduation and earn their degree sooner
Low Student Debt
On average, a student qualifies for approximately $8,200 in scholarships and grants for the academic year, which reduces tuition by about half*
Home Away From Home
Safety standards and services provide students with a second home on campus where they feel safe and
Chandler-Gilbert Community College to host political forums for students
The Office of Student Life and Leadership will host a series of political forums entitled “Project 3D” at ChandlerGilbert Community College’s Pecos Campus to promote civic participation among students.
“Project 3D” is a series of forums created by CGCC student Curran Vinson that gives students the opportunity to discuss and understand key political issues such as immigration, gun control and social justice. With the three “Ds” representing diligent, dynamic and determination, this project stops at nothing to give participants an enlightened experience.
“My hope is that Project 3D attendees will take these core values to heart,
and be courageous enough to create a society built on the relentless pursuit of truth, justice, and equality,” said Vinson. “I hope they leave excited about the future they’re going to create, so that they will tell, share, and plan with others. Most importantly, I’d like for them to leave with the hope and knowledge that democracy does work, but only as hard we do, no more, no less.”
Forums will be highly engaging and led by a panel of informed experts on the featured topic. The objective of this format is to facilitate the public’s understanding of complex issues through the power of discussion. Vinson will serve as the moderator and host for each event.
In addition to the forums, a voter
registration event is being held on Oct. 5 in an effort to make sure students are registered and ready to vote in the general election by the Oct. 10 registration deadline. The voter registration portion of Project 3D is being conducted in connection with Rock the Vote, a nonpartisan group that focuses on educating and registering young voters and getting as many as possible to turn out to the polls. This event will include live entertainment, food and guest speakers.
The Project 3D forums are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact katherine.haar@cgc.com or call 480-7327150.
Getting rid of lice is no head-scratcher, and new Gilbert clinic cleans up with new tool
Deines demonstrates how she uses a tool called the AirAlle. At 138.5 degrees, the AirAlle is cooler than a hair dryer, but it's lethal to lice and their eggs.
BY MIKE BUTLER
It’s the note or phone call every mom dreads receiving from the school nurse, and there’s really not much point in going beyond the words “head lice.” Almost everybody knows the drill. Brothers and sisters and both parents have to be checked out. There’s the frantic trip to the drugstore to buy an over-the-counter topical product. A second treatment usually has to be timed nine or 10 days later to kill any
newly hatched lice before they can produce new eggs.
In between, there’s a lot of nitcombing, a lot of laundering and a lot of vacuuming going on.
“It just puts your whole life on hold,” said Martell Deines, a mother of four and owner of the new Lice Clinics of America office in Gilbert, which promises a better way.
On a recent visit, Deines and her assistant were treating a Chandler mom and daughter who’d driven to the clinic directly from school.
As a first step, Deines performed a head check to confirm the presence of eggs and live head lice on the daughter and mother. Next, the patients were treated with a tool called the AirAlle, an FDAcleared device that kills lice and their eggs with heated air.
At 138.5 degrees, the AirAlle is cooler than a hair dryer, Deines explained, and the process takes 30 minutes or so to ensure that the lice and eggs thoroughly dry out and die. It’s 99.2 percent effective, she said.
The mother, who asked not to be identified, admitted she wasn’t exactly thrilled to be spending an afternoon at the lice clinic. But she was very pleased to be lice-free and in possession of the certificate her daughter needed to return to school the next day.
“It felt like I was getting my hair done,” she said.
Patients leave the clinic after about an hour with a 30-day guarantee, Deines said, which applies as long as all other members of the family have been screened.
Deines said the clinic works by appointment or as urgent care.
The full, guaranteed AirAlle treatment costs $175 per person, or $195 per person after 6 p.m. on weekdays, weekends or holidays. For $125 per person, you can get the Express Treatment, which includes the full AirAlle and dimethicone rinse, but you do the nit comb-out at home.
Project 3D Events: Sept. 13: Project 3D Roll Out Event, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Student Pavilion Sept. 27: “This Land Is Your Land, This Land Is My Land:” Politics of the Wall, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Agave Community Room
Oct. 5: Project 3D and Rock the Vote Event, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Student Pavilion Oct. 18: Shots Heard Around the World: The Politics of Gun Control in America, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Agave Community Room
Nov. 1: Social Justice, Diversity, and the New American, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Agave Community Room
Fact and fiction about every parent’s nightmare: head lice
For new parents or well-meaning grandparents encountering a fresh case of head lice, here’s a quick refresher and myth-busters from health experts at Mayo Clinic and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• A head lice infestation usually presents in a child as excessive itching and disturbed sleep.
• Head lice spread in school children and day-care situations primarily through direct head-to-head contact. It’s rare, but still possible, to indirectly contract head lice from upholstery, pillows, towels, brushes and other items.
• Head lice feed on human blood, and can only survive on a human scalp. If a louse falls off the head through combing or other means, it dies within a day or two. Head lice cannot fly or jump.
• Head lice don’t spread any kind of serious disease.
• A head lice outbreak at home or at school is not a reflection of your, or anyone else’s, personal hygiene or housekeeping habits. Head lice happen.
• Dogs and cats have nothing to do with it.
For the 0.8 percent chance that even one viable egg or louse might be left, Deines does a thorough comb-out with a mousse designed to loosen eggs from the hair, then applies nontoxic dimethicone oil, which quickly dispatches adult lice by clogging their breathing pores.
The Gilbert lice clinic at 3303 S. Lindsay Road, Suite 109, can also send determined DIY parents who are on a budget home with a $65 kit of topical treatments, which are more effective than over-the-counter products, Deines said.
“I think once the word gets out,” she said, “nobody will ever try to do this themselves again.”
For more information, visit liceclinicschandler.com, or call 602-3095468.
• Many children are misdiagnosed or overdiagnosed with active head lice infestations. Nits can be confused with dandruff, dirt and hairspray droplets. Some nits may be empty egg casings left over from a long-ago infestation. In any case, a nit is always firmly cemented to a hair shaft and very unlikely to transfer to someone else. For this reason, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Association of School Nurses recommend that school districts discontinue so-called “no-nit” policies.
• See a health-care pro to confirm a case of live head lice infestation.
Martell
Gilbert pageant coach is ready to show off on ‘Toddlers and Tiaras’
BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
Jaimie Otterson has no room for negativity in her life. She learned to share a sunny disposition after participating in pageants for 20-plus years.
Now the 26-year-old pageant coach from Gilbert is hoping her demeanor rubs off as she appears as a cast member on TLC’s “Toddlers and Tiaras,” which kicked off its 13-episode run on Aug. 24.
“This season is different,” Otterson said. “It’s about me and my team. I’m very confident in my life and outlook on life because of pageants.”
Otterson’s team is the “Sassy Supremes” and the girls will compete for top prizes against “Cambrie’s Court,” a group run by Las Vegas’ Cambrie Littlefield, who won her first pageant at age 2. According to a press release, she “lives and breathes pageants and expects her girls to do the same.”
A 2008 Higley High School graduate, Otterson has a similar take.
“Pageants taught me how to see the positives in everything,” she said. “If there were some negative aspects, I’d have to block it out. I had to learn to win and lose properly and not be a poor
sport.
“Public speaking is also huge with pageants. I have an outgoing personality, and it’s 100 percent from pageants. With pageants, you have to be an open book to not only the judges but the audience.”
She’s an open book with reporters as well. She shared that she cried when she found out she was giving birth to a boy, and that she stays in Gilbert while her military husband lives in Seattle so she can coach her team.
ideal coach, she said.
“I was basically in pageants as soon as I could breathe,”
Otterson said. “I was in local, city and national pageants since I was 8 or 9 months old. My wardrobe was planned out for me before I was even born.”
She segued into coaching at age 18 when one of her friend’s sisters was interested in competing.
“I realized that I liked working with kids and
here we are six years later.
“The coach is the No. 1 person in the pageant girl’s career. So many people tell me that they didn’t realize that girls needed a coach. But how can you have a football team without a coach? Girls don’t wake up and already know how to model. That’s what I’m for.”
She figured she coaches about 35 girls, with 15 to 20 of them regularly competing. If any of the parents or children cop an attitude, she “kicks them off the team.”
“I don’t have time for negativity,” she said. “If someone wants to bring negativity to my team, I don’t need them.”
That includes the naysayers who think pageants have a negative influence on girls.
“I just say you can’t have an opinion on something you don’t know anything about,” she said. “That’s why I don’t vote. I don’t know anything about politics.
“I just help the girls put themselves out there every weekend and hope for a crown at the end. If you don’t get one, it’s time to move on to the next.”
Her years in pageants make her an
working on their pageant journey,” she said. “So I formed my own team, and
Jaimie Otterson of Gilbert does Kallyn’s hair before the pageant as the toddler’s mom, Meaghan, watches. Otterson, a pageant coach, appears this season on “Toddlers and Tiaras.”
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria fights to end childhood hunger Ballet Etudes to hold auditions for ‘Nutcracker’
One in five children in the United States face hunger every day. In an effort to combat this problem, Grimaldi’s Pizzeria has joined the fight to raise awareness and end childhood hunger in America. Throughout September, in honor of Hunger Awareness Month, guests who dine at any Arizona Grimaldi’s Pizzeria location—including SanTan Village—can donate to No Kid Hungry, a charitable organization pushing to end childhood hunger in America. In return for their donation, guests will receive a bonus card matching their donation amount to use on their next visit. All of the proceeds raised will benefit No Kid Hungry.
“No child should have to worry about where their next meal is going to come
from. The struggle of childhood hunger hits close to home, and knowing that Grimaldi’s can make a difference means a lot. Grimaldi’s loves being able to participate in No Kid Hungry year after year,” said Eric Greenwald, president of Grimaldi’s Pizzeria and cochairman of the No Kid Hungry board.
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria is one of thousands of restaurants nationwide to support Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry. Many other restaurants, such as locally owned and operated Fired Pie, will also be participating in this campaign.
“We are excited to participate in No Kid Hungry since last year was such a success,” said co-owner of Fired Pie Fred
Morgan. “This organization is one that so many can connect with, and it’s great to see the restaurant community come together for this cause.”
In 2015, Grimaldi’s raised $300,000 for the cause. Since they have started participating in No Kid Hungry they have raised over $450,000. Funds are used to raise awareness about child hunger in the United States, support nutrition programs like school breakfast and summer meals, and educate kids and their families on how to cook healthy dishes with limited resources.
Grimaldi’s has garnered more awards than any other pizzeria in the country with more celebrity sightings than most 5-star restaurants. Using only the freshest ingredients, a “secret recipe” pizza sauce, handmade mozzarella cheese and dough, Grimaldi’s serves traditional pizza (as it began in Naples, Italy) in an upscale yet casual, family oriented pizzeria. The intense heat of the oven evenly bakes the pies to create Grimaldi’s famous crispy and smoky thin crust that Zagat has voted best pizza year after year. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria has eight locations in Arizona, including Gilbert, Flagstaff, Peoria, Tucson, three in the Scottsdale area, and one in Chandler.
Ballet Etudes will be holding open auditions for boys and girls ages 7-18 for its 30th annual production of “The Nutcracker” on Saturday, Sept. 10.
Auditions will be held at BE School of Dance, 2401 E. Baseline Rd., Gilbert.
Performed over three weeks at Chandler Center for the Arts and Mesa Arts Center, Ballet Etudes’ annual production of The Nutcracker is seen by 10,000 patrons every year. This year’s production will feature new Act I party and fight scene sets as well as costumes for the mice and soldiers during those parts.
Registration is $15. For more information, interested dancers may call 480-558-2080 or email info@ balletetudes.net.
Created in 1986 by Sharon Seder Meko, Ballet Etudes is dedicated to providing the highest quality in dance education and optimum performing opportunities for its members.
Gilbert School District
Highland Park Elementary School
Parents and students have many options for keeping cool and supporting their school at Highland Park throughout September. The PTSO is holding “Fun Fridays” all month, bringing snow cones, Dairy Queen Blizzards and Dilly Bars to school for sale. Students can celebrate the start of the weekend with a frozen treat. The school is also hosting its Ice Cream Social on Sept. 13 at 5:30 p.m. for students, their families and faculty. The frozen theme is sure to make the 100 degree month feel a little better.
Boulder Creek Elementary School
Boulder Creek is out and about in the community this month. Catch the principal meeting with parents for coffee on Sept. 7 at 8 a.m. in the library. Students from the Honor Choir can be spotted performing at the Diamondbacks vs. San Francisco Giants game on Sept. 9 at 4:40 p.m. The school will hold its Halloween Dance on Sept. 30 with assistance from the PTSO.
Canyon Rim Elementary School
Canyon Rim is keeping students and families busy this month. The PTA will host kids and their grandparents for their Grandparent’s Breakfast on Sept. 9 at 7:15 a.m. Fitness in the community is encouraged when the school holds its school-wide walk or ride your bike to school day on Sept. 27, as well. Opportunities for the community to support the school include a Barro’s Pizza Night on Sept. 7 at the Signal Butte and Southern location and a family night out from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Cold Stone Creamery on Sept. 22 at the Signal Butte and Baseline location.
Greenfield Junior High
The Greenfield PTSO is putting the teachers and faculty to work to fundraise this year. On Wednesday, Sept. 14 from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., the staff will be at the Baskin Robbins on Gilbert and Baseline roads scooping ice cream for whomever comes along. Students and their families can enjoy watching their teachers behind the counter.
Gilbert High School
Gilbert High is celebrating its 100th graduating class and has events to recognize the occasion. Alumni are invited to line the field at the football pregame show on Friday, Sept. 16 at 6:30 p.m before the game. Also, the 100 Year Alumni Reunion will be at The Falls Event Center on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30 online presale or $35 at the door. All alumni, teachers and staff are invited.
Current and past students and parents can get involved with the school’s Leave a Lasting Legacy campaign. Four-byeight and eight-by-eight inch bricks are for sale for $50 and $100, respectively. The bricks can be personalized with any kind of text or dedication and will be placed throughout Gilbert High to commemorate those who have walked its halls.
Higley School District
Higley High School
All seniors at Higley will take a free ACT during the school day on Tuesday, Sept. 27. The test will be given on campus and the school will have a “late start” day to accommodate freshmen, sophomores and juniors. The test will be a standard ACT that students can use for college admission requirements and NCAA eligibility. The school also hopes to yield information to help it better prepare students in the future.
Gateway Pointe Elementary School
Fundraising is in full swing at Gateway Pointe. Students will be selling cookie dough Sept. 9 to Sept. 22 with proceeds going toward the school’s PTO. There will be a Dining for Dollars night at Peter Piper Pizza, 127 Williams Field Rd., 4-8 p.m. on Sept. 28. To escape the heat, students and their families can test out their ice-skating skills together at the school’s AZ Ice Skate Night on Sept 9. at 7:30 p.m. for $10.
Centennial Elementary School
Centennial hosts its annual back-toschool events throughout September. Kindergarten parents will visit their kids in class on Shadow-a-Kindergartener day on Sept. 28 to see how much they have learned in their first quarter. PTO will hold spirit night at Sonic Drive-In on Higley and Germann roads 4-8 p.m. on Sept. 15. Also, fifth- and sixth-grade students will start their first Battle of the Books this month, reading four books.
Sossaman Middle School
Students at Sossaman have been busy getting involved in their school’s clubs and activities. The drama club will hold a dinner show on Sept. 9 at 6 p.m. in the Student Union on campus for an audience. The school’s student council has planned a Moonlight Madness dance on Sept. 16 for students, as well.
Sharing Down Syndrome Arizona hosts 17th fund-raising walk
Gilbert-based Sharing Down Syndrome Arizona is hosting its 17th annual Sharing Down Syndrome Walk on Saturday, Sept. 17, at Tempe Diablo Stadium.
The Sharing Down Syndrome Walk is a short, stroller-friendly walk that is suitable for all ages and abilities. All proceeds from the walk are used to help families in Arizona who have loved ones with Down syndrome get support and resources that they are otherwise not able to obtain on their own.
In Arizona, approximately 150 babies are born with Down syndrome every year. For many of those families, Sharing Down Syndrome Arizona is the first contact to offer support and resources, often visiting families in the hospital just after the birth of their child with Down syndrome.
The Sharing Down Syndrome Walk helps to raise the much-needed funds that allow Sharing to provide critical support to these families. All of the services and programs that Sharing provides to the families are offered for free. Programs and services include new parent hospital visitation, new parent support meetings, Angel Baby Adoption program, monthly parent education meetings, moms and dads support groups and more.
Registration for the Walk is $5
per person or $25 per family. This family-friendly event will also include “celebrity” guests such as the Phoenix Suns Gorilla, Ronald McDonald, Superman and more. There will be a variety of food trucks with food available for purchase as well as a carnival with games and rides appropriate for all ages and abilities. Participants can register a team and walk in honor of someone they love who has Down syndrome; they can also donate to team online at sharingds. org/.
Tempe Diablo Stadium is located at 2200 W. Alameda Dr., Tempe. Registration and continental breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m., and the walk and family activities go from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Founded in 1991 by Gilbert resident Gina Johnson, Sharing Down Syndrome Arizona’s mission is to educate and empower, champion and celebrate, all people who have Down syndrome. Sharing promotes positive acceptance and understanding for people with Down syndrome.
Sharing Down Syndrome Arizona is an Arizona-approved 501(c)(3) organization and depends on the generosity of others to provide much needed services to these families.
The Sharing Down Syndrome Walk helps to raise the much-needed funds that allow Sharing to provide critical support to these families.
Two students to be selected for weeklong Senate Youth trip to D.C.
Two Arizona high school students will join 102 other delegates March 4 to March 11 for the U.S. Senate Youth Program’s 55th annual Washington Week, according to Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Diane Douglas.
Since its inception in 1962, more than 5,500 students have participated in this unique leadership program, which every year brings two students from each state, the District of Columbia and the Department of Defense Education Activity to Washington. While there, students experience an intensive, weeklong educational program that highlights the workings of the U.S. Senate and the federal government as a whole. USSYP is sponsored by the Senate and fully funded by the Hearst Foundations— no government funds are utilized. Each of the 104 student delegates will receive a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship in addition to the allexpenses-paid trip to the nation’s capital.
Last year, Lydia Chew from Hamilton High School in Chandler and Ryley Goulet from Mesquite High School in Gilbert were selected as the Arizona delegates.
In addition to outstanding leadership abilities and a strong commitment to volunteer work, the student delegates generally rank academically in the top one percent of their states among high school juniors and seniors.
Potential delegates must be juniors or seniors and elected student officers for the 2016-2017 academic year, and they must reside and attend school in Arizona. Eligibility considerations may also be made for student representatives elected or selected (by a panel, commission or board) to district, regional or state-level civic or educational organizations where the delegate is serving a constituency in a high-level leadership position for the entire 2016-2017 academic year.
Names of students selected will be formally announced mid-December. Interested Arizona students should visit azed.gov/oci/ussyp/ or contact Alexis Burkhart at 602-542-3309.
The 2017 program brochure, which includes detailed rules, information about the selection process and the annual yearbook, may be accessed on the USSYP website at ussenateyouth.org.
Spiritual Reflections
Worship guide
There is a place of worship for a variety of religions in Gilbert. Here is a partial list of some of the congregations in the town. Want to be added to this list? Email christina@gilbertsunnews.com.
The Bridge Church
860 E. Warner Rd., Suites 101 & 103 Gilbert 85296
480-294-7888
bridgechurchaz.org
Services: 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sundays
We exist to show the world who Jesus is, and we believe that when people get to know Jesus as He really is, their lives will change forever. Therefore, it is our passion to help people know Jesus throughout Gilbert, Metro Phoenix and the world.
Central Christian Church—Gilbert 965 E. Germann Rd., Gilbert 85297 centralaz.com
Services: 5:30 p.m. Saturdays; and 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Sundays
While the Bible itself is the church’s official document of faith, the website lists a variety of statements that
fundamentally define the church. Please visit the website for more information.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints
3301 S. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert 85297
480-822-5000
lds.org/church/temples/gilbertarizona?lang=eng
For more information about the church, visit the website above.
First United Methodist Church of Gilbert
331 S. Cooper Rd., Gilbert 85233 480-892-9166
gilbertumc.org
Services: 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. (traditional services) and 11 a.m. (contemporary service) Sundays There are two traditional services—
Invisalign Night for Parents & Teens
We’re excited to host a get together for parents & teens at our Chandler location Thursday, Sept. 29th at 6:00 PM. Come learn about Invisalign and have your teeth digitally scanned to see before and after simulations of what your smile would look like with treatment!
We’ll have food, drinks , and special offers towards your Invisalign treatment only available that night. Space is limited, so please R.S.V.P. soon!
8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.—with the Chancel choir and traditional worship. The 11 a.m. service has a contemporary feel, with music from the Praise Band. The 9:30 a.m. service generally has the largest attendance.
Gilbert Presbyterian Church
235 E. Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert 85234
480-892-6753
azgpc.org
Services: 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sundays
Gilbert Presbyterian Church is called to be a Christ-centered covenant family nurtured by the Holy Spirit to worship God and to share God’s love.
Living Water United Methodist Fellowship
Highland Park Elementary School 230 N Cole. Dr., Gilbert 85234 livingwaterum.org
Services: 10 a.m. Sundays
Living Water exists to bring people in to meet Christ, build people up to follow Christ and send people out to share Christ.
Mission Community Church
4450 E. Elliot Rd., Gilbert 85234 480-545-4024
mission68.org
Services: 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturdays; and 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 11:59 a.m. Sundays
The Bible is God’s word to all people. It was written by human authors under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. Because it is inspired by God, it is truth and without error in the original manuscripts.
Redemption Gilbert
1820 W. Elliot Rd, Gilbert 85233 480-632-2220
gilbert.redemptionaz.com/about/abrief-overview/
Services: 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Sundays
Gospel means good news, but it is truly the most profound and glorious truth ever revealed. It is not advice, nor is it a system or philosophy to add to the congregants’ lives. It is an exclusive truth claim, a holistic worldview, the true story of the whole world, which by its very nature must redefine and recolor everything else.
Resurrection Episcopal Church
Meets at Gilbert Community Center, 130 N. Oak St., Gilbert 85233
480-719-5343
resurrectiongilbert.org
Services: 10 a.m. Sundays
Resurrection officials say the congregation is a church you can believe in because you belong. This means it welcomes and embraces all people because God already has. Come for worship, fellowship and Bible study on Sundays and join the group on a spiritual journey to better understand God’s plan for our lives.
San Tan Bible Church
1424 S. Promenade Lane, Gilbert 85296
Phone number not available. santanbible.org
Services: 8:30 a.m. (Bible hour); 9:30 a.m. (Café 2:42) and 10 a.m. worship service Sundays
The church believes the glory of God is the chief end of all we do.
Sun Valley Community Church 456 E. Ray Rd., Gilbert 85296 480-632-8920, sunvalleycc.com
Services: 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Saturdays; and 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 11:59 a.m. Sundays
The atmosphere is casual and friendly at Sun Valley Community Church. It places high value on authentic Christian living and placing Christ at the center of all our teachings. The church also offers worship music that is current and uplifting, along with focused weekend sermons that break down the Bible in a way that makes it easy to connect the word of God with today’s busy life.
Two Rivers Church
326 E. Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert 85234
480-892-2435, 2riverschurch.org
Services: 6 p.m. Saturdays; and 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. (Spanish) Sundays
Two Rivers Church exists to help lead congregants into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ by encouraging and equipping them to love God intimately and serve others. It has a casual environment with a serious faith.
Gilbert Art Season Sparkles
BY KENNETH LAFAVE
Tribute bands, one-man shows and the magic of acoustic strings are the stuff of the 2016-17 season at the Higley Center for the Performing Arts, while classic and recent plays and musicals round out the Gilbert performing arts season at The Hale Centre Theatre.
The new season at the Higley Center, 4132 E. Pecos Rd., opens with acoustic guitarist Chris Proctor, who has been called a “solo guitar orchestra” and compared with Leo Kottke. Proctor performs at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16. The rest of the season is long on acoustic strings, including:
• Acoustic singer-songwriter team Bill and Kate Isles, Oct. 22
• 9-String Theory, a duo comprised of sixstring guitar and the three-string Russian domra, Nov. 12
• Acoustic father-and-son singersongwriter team Tim and Myles, Nov. 20
• Acoustic Eidolon, a duo that pairs cello with the “guitjo,” a double-necked banjoguitar, Jan 25
• “One Great night of Folk Music,” comprising Linda Bilque, Three Legged Dog, and JC and Laney, Feb. 5
• Appalachian-style fiddler Ken Waldman, April 2.
The one-man shows begin Oct. 21 with “Men Are From Mars, Women
Are From Venus.” The classic film “It’s a Wonderful Life” becomes the single-actor undertaking “This Wonderful Life” Dec. 4, while hypnotist Asad Mecci takes the stage Jan. 6, and a one-man show devoted to legendary Doc Holliday on Jan. 7 features, incredibly enough, Wyatt Earp as Tombstone’s most famous dentist/gunfighter.
(The actor is a descendant of one of the Earp brothers.)
Tributes to music of old includes Bee Gees Gold, Nov. 13; A tribute to Carole King Dec. 2; Songs and Stories of Neil Diamond, Feb. 4; and Peter, Paul and Mary Remembered, March 2. While not exactly a band tributes, there is also a show called “Bob and Bing’s Road to Victory” evoking Hope and Crosby, Nov. 11.
runs, as most are performed Wednesdays through Saturdays while some play only Mondays and Tuesdays. Our list will note the Monday-Tuesday-only productions; the remainder play the rest of the week.
First up for the Hale is “The Drowsy Chaperone,” the Tony Award-winning musical satire. It opened Aug. 26 and plays through Oct. 8.
The classic “You Can’t Take It with You” follows Mondays and Tuesdays Sept. 13 to Nov. 15. Written by the famous team of George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart, the 1930s comedy concern an eccentric urban family.
The musical “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” is slated for Oct. 13 to Nov. 26.
Year’s Eve and runs through Feb. 11. It’s the story of a French artist who fakes his death to increase the popularity of his paintings.
The next show, The Marvelous Wonderettes, is a jukebox musical featuring ’50s and ’60s hits such as “Sincerely,” “Mr. Sandman,” “It’s My Party” and “Respect.” It runs Mondays and Tuesdays Jan. 17 to April 18.
“Thoroughly Modern Millie” takes center stage from Feb. 16 to April 1. Its musical sendup of 1920s flappers was first an Oscar-winning movie before becoming a Tony-winning Broadway show. The Army is a load of laughs in “No Time For Sergeants,” which plays from April 6 to May 13. The original, 1950s production ran for two years on Broadway and launched the career of Andy Griffith.
The shows at Hale Centre Theatre, located at 50 W. Page Ave., overlap in their
In the Old West of the mid-1800s, seven roughhewn brothers find seven brides, but the brides aren’t necessarily happy about that. The Hale’s annual presentation of “A Christmas Carol” arrives Dec. 1 and stays through Christmas Eve.
“Mark Twain’s is He Dead?” opens New
Sir Elton John and Sir Tim Rice’s spectacular Broadway hit “Aida” closes the season from May 18 through July 1. Based on the storybook retelling of Verdi’s opera by soprano Leontyne Price, it tells the tale of a love triangle in ancient Egypt to such Elton John hits as “Written in the Stars.”
For more information on the new season at Higley Center for the Performing Arts, go to higleyarts. org or call 480-279-7194. For more information on The Hale Centre Theatre’s 2016-17 lineup, visit haletheatrearizona.com or call 480-497-1181.
Chris Proctor
9 String Theory
Acoustic Eidolon
Colvin & Earle, Saturday, Sept. 3, SCPA. Longtime friends and admirers Shawn Colvin and Steve Earle have united to record their self-titled debut, a true standout in careers already filled with pinnacles and masterpieces.
You Can’t Take It with You, Tuesday, Sept 13 to Tuesday, Nov. 15, HCT. The Sycamores for all appearances are an average family, but when you throw in the Vanderhoffs, the Carmichaels, the IRS and the FBI, the fireworks really go off in this classic comedy that is the only play to win both the Pulitzer Prize for Best Play and the Academy Award for Best Picture.
An Evening with Pat Metheny, Friday, Sept. 16, SCPA. Metheny has won countless polls as “Best Jazz Guitarist” and awards, including three gold records and 20 Grammy Awards in 12 different categories. Joining him onstage will be Malaysian-Australian bassist Linda Oh, British pianist Gwilym Simcock and his longtime drummer Antonio Sanchez.
Squeeze, Wednesday, Sept. 21, SCPA. Friends Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook formed the band in 1973 that, more than four decades later, still tours and reminds fans why they left such an indelible impression on the U.K.’s music scene.
Seventh Annual Brazilian Day Festival, Saturday, Sept. 24, SCPA. The Valley’s largest and most authentic Brazilian Independence Day celebration, Brazilian Day Arizona features an exciting lineup of live Brazilian entertainment, including performances by Grupo Cupim do Samba, BatalaLA, Axe Capoeira, Axe Folclorico and more.
Mary Chapin Carpenter, Sunday, Sept. 25, SCPA. Five-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee performs timeless hits from her expansive 14-album catalog and new songs.
Bernadette Peters, Saturday, Oct. 15, MAC. The three-time Tony Award winner who can be seen in the second season of the Golden Globe Award-winning series “Mozart in the Jungle,” will perform signature songs from the multitude of iconic shows in which she has starred.
Angela Cheng and Alvin Chow, Friday, Nov. 18, GCAC. This husband-and-wife concert pianist duo plays compositions for one-hand, two hands and then fourhand compositions, showing the physical intricacies of two performers sharing the same instrument and creating tonal colors across the entire keyboard.
Bruce Hornsby, Friday, Nov. 18, SCPA. Despite early mainstream successes, he has pursued a more personal, idiosyncratic musical path, focusing on projects that sparked his creative interest, including collaborations with the Grateful Dead, Spike Lee, Ricky Skaggs, Don Henley, Ornette Coleman, Bob Dylan, Bela Fleck, Bonnie Raitt, Pat Metheny and Robbie Robertson.
John Cleese and Eric Idle, Monday, Nov. 21, MAC. The founding members of Monty Python pioneered an irreverent, absurdist sensibility that is emulated by comics around the world. As individuals, they have written, performed and produced critically acclaimed shows such as “Spamalot,” “A Fish Called Wanda,” “Fawlty Towers” and “The Rutles.”
4132 E. Pecos Rd., Gilbert Tickets: 480-279-7194, higleycenter.org
HCT—Hale Centre Theatre
50 West Page Ave., Gilbert Tickets: 480-497-1181, www.haletheatrearizona.com
MAC—Mesa Arts Center
One E. Main St., Mesa Tickets: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter.com
SCPA—Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale Tickets: 480-499-8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org
Your Life. Our Commitment.
Through Dignity Health post-stroke programs and a lot of determination, Jimmie is beginning to take back his life, balance, voice and now his pleasure.
Read his story and learn more about neuro wellness programs a neurocare.dignityhealth.org
Come dance for those who cannot, dancingforstrokeaz.com, performance and party on Oct 1st
Musician playing, experimenting on world music lab in Amsterdam
BY SRIANTHI PERERA
As the national anthems rang out on television and Olympians were awarded medals in Rio recently, Colin O’Donohoe was preparing for an “Olympics” of a musical variety.
The Chandler freelance musician, and founder of the world instrument Pangean Orchestra, is attending the Atlas Lab in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, until Sept. 5. He is helping develop intercultural music with topnotch musicians playing the Chinese pipa, Japanese sho, Palestine oud, Indian sarangi, Spanish flute and other lesser-known traditional instruments.
O’Donohoe plays percussion instruments.
“It’s like a U.N. meeting or the Olympics; and like the Olympics, it’s a volunteer thing,” said O’Donohoe, who is raising funds for his expenses via a GoFundMe campaign.
The invitation to the global stage came following O’Donohoe’s entry in a composing competition organized by the Atlas Ensemble, which has a mission to cross-pollinate music of different cultures and develop new repertoire to preserve the instruments and stay relevant in this day.
Winners don’t receive medals, but receive entry to the prestigious event.
when I hear this.’”
To that end, participants are sharing their skills, experimenting and “letting their guard down” to create bold and modern work.
About seven years ago, O’Donohoe did the same in Gilbert. He founded the Pangean Orchestra (also known as The Immigrant Orchestra), a gathering of more than 30 ethnic musicians in the Valley who collectively made “unusual” music on the local stage on a theme of peace. The orchestra was subsequently moved to New York on a smaller scale when O’Donohoe did the same, but Pangean has played at least one annual concert in the Valley.
O’Donohoe and violinist Sarah Cave, based in Bombay, India, are the only participants from the United States.
Opportunities such as this are important, O’Donohoe said, because the workshop gathers open-minded people who want to draw from their own heritage to create music for the 21st century.
The world has a tendency to look up to American music and set their standards accordingly, O’Donohoe said. “So much of the world is going toward whatever’s the top 10 in America and other countries are trying to mimic it,” he added. “These instruments are so under the radar even in their own countries.”
The one way to preserve these instruments is to make them relevant in this century and make the music likable.
“They shouldn’t like a world instrument out of guilt of their culture,” O’Donohoe said. “The reason should be: ‘this is really fun; this sounds really good; I like how I feel
When O’Donohoe returns from Amsterdam, he plans to give new impetus to the Pangean Orchestra, starting with a concert planned for November at the Tempe Historical Museum. Rather than play folk music with a modern spin, the group will play brand new work with the ancient instruments, he said.
In addition to creating the Pangean Orchestra, O’Donohoe’s resume has other notable recent accomplishments. In New York, he played with actor/musician Dominic Chianese, known best for playing Uncle Jr. on “The Sopranos;” composed music for The Dr. Oz Show, Access Hollywood and Oprah’s Next Chapter. “Apostrophate Me,” a musical that he wrote for his late brother based on their Irish heritage, is being optioned for a feature film to be made in Ireland next year.
O’Donohoe, 38, believes the best is yet to come. He said making the Chinese pipa, the Middle Eastern oud or any other instrument stay relevant in a world that’s dominated by keyboards and auto tunes may well be his next large body of work.
He harkens to the time The Beatles made the sitar “cool.”
“I’m not famous, and I don’t have a pulpit like they did,” he said. “But it is possible. People are ready for it.”
Colin O’Donohoe is raising funds for his expenses in The Netherlands. To donate, visit gofundme.com/worldmaestro. For details on the Atlas Ensemble, go to atlasensemble.nl.
Colin O’Donohoe is playing his doumbek, or goblet drum, composing and experimenting with new music at the Atlas Lab in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, until Sept. 5.
Off the Wall exhibition, silent auction in Gilbert to aid area artists
Art Intersection and contributing artists present their annual fundraiser, Off the Wall, an exhibition that runs 10 a.m.-6 p.m. September 13 through October 15 at its gallery, 207 North Gilbert Road, Suite 201, in Gilbert.
The special exhibition and silent auction features works from Valley and national artists and gifts from local vendors.
A silent auction night is 6-9 p.m. on October 15. All winning bidders will take their purchased artwork off the wall.
community programs, such as the Emerge student photography exhibition and curated exhibitions in the North and South galleries, which are always free and open to the public.
Art Intersection presents about 10 public exhibitions annually in its galleries, with work from student, emerging, and nationally and internationally known artists. To support these programs, it works with the artists to present the Off the Wall exhibition fundraising silent action. All of the artwork is donated. Proceeds from Off the Wall support
To secure your favorite artwork displayed at Off the Wall, bid on it or purchase it before the auction with a buy-itnow price. Bidding closes during the silent auction on October 15.
Bids may be made in person at the gallery or by email. Email bids will be accepted until midnight, October 14. An online gallery at artintersection. com will list the buyit-now price, allowing for immediate purchase of an auction item at any time.
The final bidding evening on October 15 will include hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, door prizes, raffles and live music. Singer Lyn Jackson will perform jazz, blues, and RnB music.
More information or to bid: artintersection.com.
YOUR SPACE TO INSPIRE THE PERKS
Elaine Kessler generated this photo for her “Created Equal Trigger Exhibit” on Voting, held in 2014. “Success” is the next topic in the arts-focused discussion series on Sept. 24 at The Falls
Success-themed art show to trigger conversation
BY SRIANTHI PERERA
Gilbert photographer and arts activist Elaine Kessler likes to enable dialogue.
Among events she has organized in the past, an interactive art series known as the Created Equal Trigger Exhibits provides a forum for conversation designed to trigger civic action. It’s a modern take on the exchange of ideas at European salons of the 17th century.
Created Equal Trigger Exhibits was launched in June 2014, and past events have been themed on “The American Dream,” voting and education.
both accessibility and dimension. We want artists to be able to run with the topic and we want our audience to experience something new about the topic for themselves,” she added.
So far, five artists have committed to participate, and she is looking for more.
Photographer Kim Bruyns’ work was exhibited for the “Created Equal Trigger Exhibit” themed on “The American Dream,” also held in 2014. The artwork, Bruyns said, was open to interpretation by the viewer.
Kessler is producing another in the series, a pop up art exhibit on the topic of “Success,” from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 24 at The Falls Event Center, 4635 E. Baseline Rd., in Gilbert.
“We’re looking for artists to creatively tackle this question: Is Success Created Equal?” Kessler said. “We want to show work that inspires people to question their own paradigm of success and cause them to wonder about equality in this (and other) areas of their life.”
Asked why she chose this particular topic, Kessler said that “success seems to be a tangible and relevant concept for people of all ages and backgrounds.
“We look for topics that people have
The exhibit, she said, will enable participants to interact with art, the artists and each other. There will be visual art, of course, music and the spoken word.
During the series’ inaugural event, “The American Dream,” Kessler listened to a conversation between two individuals who were discussing their vastly different points of view, triggered by a provocative photograph.
“They were deeply engaged in dialogue that was civil, thoughtprovoking and amicable,” she said. “This outcome is often observed at our events when people engage with the artwork and then with others—perspectives expand and I think that this is what, ultimately, makes the world a gentler place for us all.”
Kessler is also the founder of District Second Saturdays, an art tour through the Heritage District (upcoming tour dates are 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sept. 10, Oct. 8, Nov. 12 and Dec. 10), and Mixer for Creatives, another forum for artistic people, both professionals and amateurs, at her home studio.
Contact Kessler at 480-220-6426 or elaine@elainekesslerphotography.com.
Event Center in Gilbert.
Hale Centre Theatre opens season with musical comedy ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’
The Hale Centre Theatre in Gilbert opens its 2016-17 season of powerhouse musicals, outrageous comedies and tastefully clean shows with the Broadway smash hit “The Drowsy Chaperone.” A hilarious satire on 1920s musicals, the show encompasses classic comical elements, including mistaken identities, bumbling ’20s gangsters disguised as pastry chefs, a puffed-up Broadway producer, a stiff-lipped butler, a ditzy dowager and a tipsy chaperone. The fun starts August 26 and runs through October 8.
transforms his dingy New York apartment into a fantastic theatrical set as he listens to a recording of his favorite fictional show, “The Drowsy Chaperone.” Largerthan-life characters materialize in glitzy costumes, engage in witty repartee and sing flapper-era songs featuring sparkling music and clever lyrics.
“The Drowsy Chaperone” garnered five Tony awards and seven Drama Desk awards when it played for 674 performances on Broadway. Major productions also played in London, Toronto and Los Angeles, followed by two American tours.
action takes place. Kathi Osborne, a New York native and veteran of more than 500 shows, movies and other appearances, deftly performs the tipsy and hilarious Chaperone.
Flapper-era songs are featured in the show.
Creating a showwithin-a-show, an asocial Broadway fanatic imaginatively
In the Hale seasonopening production, noted international actor Tim Paul Fiscus assumes the role of the Man in Chair, the narrator of the comedy, in whose apartment the
Hale Theatre veteran Mark Kleinman has the coveted role of the snooty Broadway producer, while ever-popular director and choreographer Cambrian James is in charge of the entire production. Lincoln Wright reprises his post as music director for this production.
Tickets for “The Drowsy Chaperone”
are available at the Hale Theatre box office, 50 West Page Ave., in downtown Gilbert. Tickets are priced at $18 to $30. Season tickets for all 10 musicals and comedies also are available. Visit www. HaleTheatreArizona.com or call 480-4971181.
For additional information: Taia Flake at publicrelations@ haletheatrearizona.com
David Feist, PA-C Dermatology
Kara Gooding, PA-C Dermatology
Gary McCracken, MD Dermatology
Anthony Petelin, MD Mohs Surgery
James Young, DO Mohs Surgery
David Kelly, MD Plastic Surgery
Brian deGuzman, MD Vein Specialist
“The Drowsy Chaperone” is a satire on 1920s musicals.
County Industrial Development Authority boosts economy
BY DENNY BARNEY
One of the great parts of my job as county supervisor is participating in the economic development of the region. The county works hard as a facilitator for businesses so they are able to grow with minimal regulation. We developed one-stop shops that provide needed support to individuals and businesses without the bureaucracy one might expect, and we run mandated programs and other enterprises that boost the economy.
One such example is the Maricopa County Industrial Development Authority, a self-funded enterprise that offers low-cost capital through private lenders to eligible private borrowers. These organizations can be manufacturing plants, senior-living facilities, infrastructure projects, hospitals, affordable housing and other nonprofits. The lower interest rates allow eligible borrowers to build bigger projects, add more equipment and hire more people – all while benefiting the borrower
and the people of Maricopa County.
The Maricopa County IDA’s mission is to help create and maintain jobs within the county and assist residents to achieve a better standard of living and way of life. Throughout its 40 years, the IDA has given thousands of people and hundreds of organizations access to capital that would not have been available otherwise. And all this is done without the Maricopa County IDA impacting tax rates.
While there are hundreds of examples of the Maricopa County IDA’S great work, three recent East Valley projects deserve recognition.
The Maricopa County IDA approved the issuance of as much as $375 million in bonds for Phoenix Children’s Hos -
pital, Inc., an Arizona nonprofit corporation. Phoenix Children’s Hospital will use the funds to develop a dedicated facility for women’s services that will include labor and delivery rooms, operating rooms, and private mother and baby suites. The new Gilbert facility will be developed with Dignity Health and will add hundreds of jobs and provide additional pediatric care to the East Valley.
In the recent past, the Maricopa County IDA issued low-interest rate bonds to manufacturers, such as Kovach Building Enclosures. Kovach is among the largest exterior enclosure companies in the nation. In 2011, Kovach expanded its manufacturing in Chandler with the help of the Maricopa County
IDA. Now with hundreds of employees, the company is a powerful economic driver.
The Maricopa County IDA also makes investments in the economic growth of the county. I recently supported investment in EWI, a company looking to come to the Valley to establish a world-class advanced manufacturing technology center. The center will help Arizona manufacturers create competitive advantages through the application of advanced technologies. Businesses like EWI will help diversify Arizona’s economy by decreasing our dependence on the service industry and providing high-tech manufacturing jobs.
I am a firm believer in small government that works for the community, helps boost growth rather than impede it, and provides the services we need without the red tape. I work hard to make sure we do this as efficiently and cost effectively as possible. The Maricopa County IDA is a great partner in this effort.
Denny Barney is a Gilbert resident and a member of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors.
I wish the morning weather gal on 15 would not yell the weather at us in the morning. She’s wearing a mike. She doesn’t need to yell the weather. If she could just pipe down, that would be great.
Just what is wrong with all of these newcomers or old timers who do not bother to read the temperature before they go for a hike? How can people be so ignorant? They’re taking 12 year olds hiking when it’s over 100 degrees?
In your article, “Don’t Fly Over Nebraska” in the August issue, it was stated in a caption that “Nebraska has more miles of shoreline than any other state.” As a Michigan
native, I was surprised and skeptical. A little research found that Michigan has the longest freshwater coastline in the United States and the secondlongest coastline next to Alaska. In fact, Nebraska doesn’t seem to be in the running. I would like to know exactly what the statement means.
—Dan Lundwall
I picked up your magazine for the first time and started reading it. I love the title of the magazine. The cover photo and articles mentioned seemed to have a positive spin. However, when I started to read the Sound Off column, I was appalled at the complaining and nastiness. This is why so many people have bad
Denny Barney
people. Your magazine is doing a great disservice to our community. How about a “high-five” column where we praise the good things in life instead of bashing each other?
I think Drew Alexander drank the Kool-Aid of Hillary Clinton. He failed to fact check his statements and threw out all sorts of false positive rhetoric on Clinton. Most of what he said were outright lies to sway your thinking! It did not work on me! I do not know where Drew got his “facts” to paint Hillary as another Mother Teresa. She couldn’t hold a candle—not even to shine the Mother’s sandals! People, do your fact checking on politifact.com. Check Trump’s facts also. Be informed! Then vote!
We may not know who Donald Trump is, but we definitely know what Hillary Clinton is. It is my very firm belief that she is a traitor, a liar, a deceiver and a fraud and incredibly stupid. She has proven herself a traitor by giving Russia 60% of our uranium.
Biz Box
Bernie Sanders bought a lakefront home for $600,000. Politics is a very rewarding career, especially when you can get paid off by the Clintons.
I absolutely love your Sound Off. It is very refreshing to know that there are many of us out here who know that our country has to change direction. We finally have a businessman who will actually fix many things that are broken in our government and country. It’s amazing that there are so many folks trying to tear him down. If Hillary is elected, we will continue our downslide in the world, and we will not be able to recover.
Gee, thanks athletes. Here’s another black eye for Americans in a foreign country. Such stupid, young, thoughtless Americans. Who thought they could outsmart the people in Rio? You’re just another one of the dummies who thinks you’re cute.
To place a business card ad in the Biz Box, contact Tracey Wilson: 480-898-5611 tracey@timespublications.com www.gilbertsunnews.com
PRICE: $50 + tax or 6 months for $275 + tax. Vertical business cards will be reformatted to fit this space.
The Curmudgeon is dead. Brain dead. His column is unbelievable. He hasn’t been around for the last seven years. Brain dead. I won’t be reading his column anymore. Thank you.
As an old timer, I’ve heard some pretty ridiculous things. But when my TV salesman told me I have to talk to my TV to be sure it works properly, that took the cake. Wow! Talk to my TV?
The Obama administration has announced that thousands of Syrian refugees will be able to stay in the United States. They will be given work permits and Social Security numbers. ISIS has definitely infiltrated these refugees. Hey Obama, how about taking care of our own American people who don’t have jobs and who are suffering?
What is wrong with all the medical professionals in this country? Shouldn’t one of them
call and say that Trump has a case of paranoia? I have a neighbor like that and it’s not hard to tell they have crazy ideas. Why aren’t the medical professionals speaking up and saying, “Poor Mr. Trump. He needs a doctor more than votes.”
Gee, now that the sexist manager is gone from Channel 10, the women can lower their skirts a little bit and not show as much leg. Let them cover their knees and look more decent.
During the Democratic convention, Cory Booker claimed that Donald Trump wants to ban all Muslims because of how they pray. This is a total and complete lie. It is not because of how they pray. Trump just wants to make sure everyone coming into our country is properly vetted. The Democrats lie all the time.
CLASSIFIEDS Services
wesleysglass com SERVICING THE ENTIRE VALLEY
handyman
IS YOUR "HONEY DO" LIST GETTING TOO BIG FOR YOU?
Give John the Handyman a call! He can help you get things done.
Anything that takes your time I can do & have the tools to do it!
home remodeling
& CUSTOM
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 Office 480-820-8515
Cell 602-628-9653
Wolfgang Construction Inc. Licensed & Bonded ROC 124934
AZ HOME & PAINT SERVICES
Affordable interior & exterior painting for every budget. Power washing, drywall repair, etc.
Free list w/pics of available properties in your specific price range and area Free recorded message 1-800-495-0386 ID# 1040
Homelight Realty
ALL PRO TREE SERVICE, LLC
Tree Trimming, Tree Removals, Stump Grinding, Monthly Landscape Maintenance, Full Yard Clean Ups, Palm Trees, Deep Root Fertilization, Irrigation, Etc Free Estimate, Very Professional, Insured, and Bonded!
*Kitchens or Baths *Painting/Drywall/Stucco *Plumbing/Electrical
*Decks/Garages
We Do It All!
24 Hour Emergency Services
Licensed/Bonded/Insured
ROC#242008
FALL SPECIAL
15% off labor on any job over $1,000
Must mention this ad for discount
Can't combine with any other offer
Call for a Free Estimate!
Visa & MasterCard Accepted Mention this Ad and Receive 15% off Discount! 480-354-5802 or dennis@allprotrees com
See Our Ad in the Biz Box Section
AZ LANDSCAPE & HAULING SERVICES
Complete landscape and property maintenance including clean ups, hauling, installations, sprinkler install, maintenance and repair, tree care, painting, handyman, etc English speaking, dependable, Insured, SmartScape Certified, Free estimates Valleywide 480-200-9598
Free report reveals what you need to know before you list your home for sale Free recorded message 1-800-495-0386 ID# 1003 Homelight Realty
Homes
Homes from 2,700 - 3,500 sq. ft. |
Priced from the upper $300’s Sales Center: 2840 E. La Costa Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298
DAILY 10-6PM; FRI 1-6PM
These two East Valley luxury home communities offer easy living and close access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Nestled at the base of the majestic San Tan Mountains, residents will enjoy sweeping views of the colorful Arizonan desert and awe inspiring mountain ranges. Adora Trails is rich with amenities, offering a 10-acre neighborhood park, 12 miles of walking trails and a central community clubhouse where residents can entertain family, friends or just enjoy their neighbors. Montaverde offers four spacious floor plans to choose from available on ¼ acre + homesites.
*Taylor Morrison received the highest numerical score in the United States in the proprietary Lifestory Research 2016 America’s Most Trusted™ Home Builder study. Study based on 39,079 new home shoppers in the United States. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed between January and December 2015. For study details, go to www.lifestoryresearch.com. All home and community information (including, but not limited to current or future views from any property, prices, availability, incentives, floor plans, site plans, features, standards and options, assessments and fees,
and
Maps and plans are not to scale, all dimensions are approximate and are intended to
