Mesa Tribune02-26-2023

Sunday, February 26, 2023

INSIDE THIS WEEK MPS still has millions in COVID funds to spend

BY SCOTT SHUMAKER Tribune Staff Writer

COVID-19 may be little more than a memory for most people, but millions in pandemic relief funds that school districts and charters in Mesa and throughout the state received directly or indirectly from the federal government are very much a part of the present, according to a new report by the Arizona Auditor General.

Arizona schools in total spent less than half of the COVID relief dollars awarded by the federal government by the end of the 2022 fiscal year.

“Districts and charters reported spending just over $2.2 billion, or 48%, of their nearly $4.6 billion allocated relief monies through June 30, 2022,” the report states, adding the state Department of Education “had yet to spend/distribute almost $322 million, or 79%, of its discretionary relief monies as of June 30, 2022.”

Cargo deal brings EV closer to Mexico

BY SCOTT SHUMAKER Tribune Staff Writer

Though Mesa sits about 175 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, the city took a step closer to becoming a portof-entry for goods to and from Mexico as the PhoenixMesa Gateway Airport Board approved a three-year deal to lease a hangar to Danish shipping giant DSV Air & Sea.

The airport is governed by a board that also includes Gilbert and Queen Creek because of its regional importance.

Officials said the hangar is a foothold for a larger partnership that could see DSV eventually lease as much as 1 million square feet of space at the airport and set up an import and export hub with TSA screening facilities.

page 6

Mesa Public Schools’ share of the remaining COVID dollars is over $177 million, or 60% of the $291 million in federal relief allocated to the district since the start of the pandemic.

Mesa charter schools still have money to spend, too.

Noah Webster Schools in Mesa has spent $3.6 million of its $4.2 million in relief awarded. BASIS Mesa has spent $409,000 of

see FUNDS page 3

Group hugs were in order on Feb. 22 at Banner Desert Medical Center as Kannon Riecka, who’s virtually smothered in loves, thanks the oncology team that saved him while he was a cancer patient there. What provoked the lovefest was a $5 million donation from the James M./Cox Foundation to Banner for a blood and cancer center. For the story, see page 2 (David Minton/Tribune Staff Photographer)

Cox donation spurs Banner Children’s cancer clinic

BY JOSH ORTEGA Tribune Staff Writer

Banner Children’s at Desert Medical Center has received a $5 million gift from James M. Cox Foundation to create a one-stop clinic for East Valley kids battling cancer.

The Cox Foundation presented a check to Banner Health leaders, including Laura Snow, associate vice president for Women/ Infant and Pediatric Services, that will enable the creation of a Blood and Cancer Center the Mesa hospital.

“Our mission is all about building a better future for the next generation,” Cox Communications President Mark Greatrex said at a Feb. 22 press conference as he literally introduced the next generation – Kannon Riecks.

Kannon was living the American Dream in 2018 as a high school freshman playing volleyball. But one day before a game, he found a lump growing on the back of his leg that he and his parents wrote off as just a cyst until he had difficulty walking, bending his knee or even putting pressure on his leg.

“He could lose an arm and still go out there for his coach and give him everything he’s got,” his father, Ryan Riecks, said.

They immediately went to the Emergency Room at Banner Children’s and the family elected for surgery a week later.

That week later, in April 2018, Ryan recalled doctors telling him and his wife what they removed tested positive for Ewing’s Sarcoma, a form of cancer that most often occurs in and around the bones.

The next day, Ryan said they visited Dr. Naresh Reddivalla who, thanks to his “aggressively and quick” treatment, saved his son and has since become his “spirit animal.”

In January 2019, doctors declared Kannon cancer-free and he’s currently pursuing a career as a commercial airline pilot.

Ryan fought back tears as he described how “super easy” Kannon made the process for him “because he’s just such an amazing kid,” Ryan said.

But during his treatment, a small, unnecessary part of Kannon’s treatment required that he have a needle placed into the port on his chest, then go downstairs, get in his

parent’s car and drive to another part of the hospital’s expansive campus.

Kannon said he felt uneasy.

“I didn’t really like that idea because I didn’t like having the needle in my chest,” Ryan said. “And my parents were pretty cool, but if that comes up, I don’t expect them to know what to do.”

The $5 million gift will help future patients avoid the unnecessary hassle and bring together consultation, treatment, and follow-up services exclusively for children and young adults up to 19 who have blood disorders or cancer.

“The hurdles of going from one facility to the next were just obstacles that were unnecessary when you’re already trying to fight for your kid's like,” Ryan Riecks said.

Consolidating the existing pediatric hematology oncology provider clinics and the outpatient pediatric treatment center – both currently operating in separate locations on the medical campus—will create an integrated cancer center delivering highly coordinated, high-quality care for some of Banner Health’s most complex pediatric patients by 2024.

Banner Health will fully renovate and

transform the newly dedicated space into a welcoming, contemporary clinic environment, with state-of-the-art medical equipment and an aesthetic designed with the unique needs of children in mind.

The new center will include five exam rooms, four private infusion rooms, two infusion bays, and space that will allow for wrap-around services to support the patient, siblings and parents in navigating cancer, such as psychosocial support and integrative therapies.

“What helped me going was always having a smile on my face,” Kannon said. “I had an amazing support system, and they didn’t allow me to have anything but a smile.”

As pediatrics grows into adult care, the center will include formalized programs that provide streamlined care as they manage the post-effects of a cancer recovery. The center will also be able to administer IV antibiotics sooner, for especially ill oncology patients who are currently routed to the Emergency Department.

In 2021, the Banner Children’s at Desert oncology program recorded over 4,500 patient clinic visits and outpatient consults – a 27% increase over the previous year.

Growth in this highly specialized area of care is expected to continue over the next decade alongside projected growth in the East Valley’s population of young families.

Snow said this comes as just a small part of Banner’s mission to make healthcare easier, so life can be better.

“This is just one small way that we are able to design our services in such a way so that patients just have one place to go to receive all of their care instead of having to go to different locations on this rather large campus,” she said.

In 2012, the James M. Cox Foundation also donated another $5 million to establish Center for Integrative Oncology at the Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center in Gilbert.

For Ryan Riecks, a positive demeanor and humor got him through the scary time watching his son endure his battle, and appreciated Cox’s generosity.

“It’s easy to get slumped down in a hole and self-pity, but staying positive, humor and things like that’ll definitely help get you through it,” Ryan said. “Everybody can make a difference, whether big, whether it’s small, let’s try to put an end to pediatric cancer.”

Mesa board OKs mental health facility for minors

BY SCOTT SHUMAKER Tribune Staff Writer

The shuttered Hacienda Healthcare Children’s Hospital in Mesa, which closed in 2019 following a series of troubling incidents at its Phoenix location that included a staffer’s rape of an comatose patient, is slated to become a 24-bed children’s behavioral health residential facility.

The proposed redevelopment by Mesa-based nonprofit Copa Health was one of two health care-related projects in the US 60 corridor approved by the Mesa Planning and Zoning Board at its Feb. 22 meeting.

Copa Health plans to convert the vacant 21,000-square-foot facility near the southwest corner of the US 60 and Country Club Drive into an in-patient center

offering patients under 18 a “supportive and therapeutic environment” for managing complex issues.

Copa Health said the exterior of the existing building, which opened in 2015, will remain largely the same with improvements reconfiguring the interior to better serve behavioral health patients.

The nonprofit said in application documents that the facility will be locked with badges required by staff and will employ about 50 full-time health care workers offering round-the-clock care.

It said the length of patient stays would vary, but the target duration is six to eight months. Services include independent living skills and psychiatric care.

City staffed recommended approval for the required rezone with conditions, including compliance with a good neighbor policy.

The policy details a system for protecting the safety of patients and others including the creation of a safety committee and chief risk and compliance officer.

Copa Health did not report receiving any public comments.

Farther east along the US 60, Banner Health won board approval to build 16 single-family homes adjacent to its MD Anderson Cancer Center in Gilbert.

Called “Home Away from Home,” the homes will be located near the southwest corner of the US 60 and Higley Road.

Banner said the homes will be used by cancer patients whose treatments require extended stays and would otherwise require extensive travel and poten-

$1.5 million, and Happy Valley East has spent $600,000 of $1.1 million, to name just a few of the larger Mesa charter schools in the report.

Schools can’t get too comfortable with the extra dollars, as districts and charters must obligate the funds by September 2024 or they risk losing the relief money for good.

The Auditor General’s report notes that most schools are planning to spend almost half of the remaining COVID dollars on recurring operating expenses and warns that if they don’t plan for a world without that aid, they could face a financial cliff when the relief dollars run out.

The report urges districts and charters to “develop plans for their operational needs supported by these monies.”

The report highlighted the future costs of adding staff using COVID dollars.

“Districts and charters reported spending just over $528.4 million on new salaries and benefits costs with $137.4 million, or 26%, spent for adding positions for other than student population growth,” the AG’s report cautioned.

MPS has performed better than the state average in regards to using COVID dollars for one-time investments rather than ongoing expenses, earmarking only 32% of its remaining COVID awards for operations.

According to the report, the largest share of Mesa’s remaining relief dollars, 42% is earmarked for school facilities.

But 43% – or $49.2 million of the $114.2 million it has spent through June 30 went to “maintaining operations” with another $22 million for new programs.

That spending includes over $37 million on salaries and benefits for in-classroom personnel and another $7.4 million for the same outside the classroom.

The Auditor General defines classroom spending as “instruction costs of activities that deal directly with the interaction between teachers and students, student support costs for activities that assess and improve the students’ wellbeing, and instruction support costs of activities that assist instructional staff with the content and process of providing learning experiences for students.”

New programs and curriculum in-

clude the cost of “academic progress assessments, instructional delivery modifications, summer enrichment, afterschool programs, etc.,” according to the report.

The district also spent nearly $6.7 million on medical and mental health, which the report defines as counseling and vaccinations for staff and students.

Remote learning also took a big chunk

of pandemic relief funds with $11.4 million going to technology.

And personal protective equipment, covering everything from masks to disinfectant to air purifiers, cost MPS $8 million, with three quarters of that going to salaries and benefits.

A large share of MPS’ facilities spending of remaining COVID dollars is devoted to a $75 million upgrade of heating

and air conditioning systems across the district.

The district reasoned last year that the updated HVAC systems would improve health and learning in the classrooms, and also stretch the COVID dollars by lowering energy bills with more efficient equipment.

The state Auditor General’s Report broke down Mesa Public Schools spending of $114 million in pandemic-relief funds and also produced pie charts showing what the money went to as well as where the rest of its $117.3 million will be spent. (Arizona Auditor General)

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FUNDS from page 3

MPS is buying so many HVAC systems, it may be impacting the local market.

In December, Associate Superintendent Holly Williams told the board that an official at a neighboring district told an MPS staffer, “Would you please tell Scott Thompson to stop buying HVACs. We can’t get one in the state because Mesa has bought them all.”

Williams’ story speaks to the size of Mesa’s HVAC investment and also that supply chain issues have delayed schools’ spending of COVID dollars.

Thompson told the Tribune that MPS has a plan to spend the millions remaining in the district’s COVID relief funds by the deadline and is continuously monitoring the expenditures.

“If I have any concern, it would be the unknown impact of supply chain disruptions,” Thompson said.

“I would also like to see some additional clarity around the definition of ‘obligation,’” he continued. “If something has been ordered and due to sup-

How

ply chain issues we have to cancel the order and find another supplier, is that considered to be obligated?”

MPS Governing Board members have been talking about how to avoid running off a financial cliff at the expiration of COVID relief funds for months.

One of MPS Superintendent Andi Fourlis’ pay-for-performance goals for this year is to develop a plan by the end of February to spend the remaining

FACILITY from page 2

tially high housing costs.

The temporary housing, it said, would be cost-free for patients with financial needs.

For zoning purposes, the homes are considered part of the hospital, but Banner said Home Away from Home was intended to feel like a residential neighborhood for the benefit of patient wellbeing.

The layout is like a miniature singlefamily subdivision, with sidewalks and

COVID funds in a way that “minimizes disruption to post-ESSER fund budgeting.”

ESSER is the acronym for Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funds, part of the American Rescue Plan Act, and comprise the largest share of COVID relief for schools.

The third and final round of ESSER funding requires districts to devote at least 20% to learning loss.

compacted gravel paths for patient exercise. There will be pedestrian access between the patient housing and the cancer center.

Taylor Morrison is the home builder for the project, and Banner is the developer and owner of the homes.

One resident located near the project contacted the city before the hearing, writing, “This looks like a beautiful facility that will add value to the community and provide great benefit to the patients of MD Anderson. We fully support this project.”

The Mesa Tribune is published every Sunday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout the East Valley.

DSV specializes in international shipping and says it is one of world’s largest shippers of goods between Asia and Mexico.

Its expansion here is a sign that the international business world believes there’s substance behind the hype about Arizona becoming a new semiconductor and high tech manufacturing hub.

DSV Director Tina Larsen told the board it expects local shipping demand from semiconductor factories, electric car manufacturers, mining operations and the alternative energy industry.

“Not to mention perishables,” she added. “You may have avocados and things like that.”

PMGA officials and board members were all smiles as Larsen described the company’s vision for a hub at Mesa comparable to existing cargo operations in Huntsville, Alabama and Rockford, Illinois.

If a March 9 test flight goes well, the company plans to start with two to four cargo flights per week at the airport with the 747, the largest widely used cargo aircraft.

“We think this is an incredible opportunity to show DSV that this is where they belong,” PMGA President J. Brian O’Neil told the board.

The March test flight will determine how well the 747 can navigate the ramp

from the runway to DSVs new space.

“This is an extremely large aircraft,” O’Neil told the board. “There’s going to be wing walkers, there’s going to be towing of this aircraft. We are working very closely with DSV.”

“Wing walkers” are workers who will walk beneath the tips of the plane’s wings to ensure they don’t clip anything on the journey to the hangar.

According to the International Air Transport Association, goods are generally shipped by air if they are either high value or needed in a timely manner.

Last year, airport officials reported an uptick in cargo flights landing at the airport to deliver materials to the Lucid EV car factory in Casa Grande. Previously these flights went through Tucson, but the car maker has been shifting to PMGA.

That may be a small taste of the future for Mesa’s airport if DSV sticks around.

Larsen said the March test flight will be carrying material for “one of the semicons in the area,” referring to a semiconductor manufacturer.

Mesa caught the company’s attention in part because of the joint U.S.-Mexican customs inspection facilities under development in the southwest corner of the airport at SkyBridge Arizona, a 360-acre campus under development that will cater to international air cargo with customs, warehouses and other facilities.

“We have a lot of hope for this area, and we believe it is a significant part of our growth objectives for years to come,” Larsen told the board.

Larsen said DSV’s Los Angeles hub currently handles much of its Asiato-Mexico business, but the company wants to shift part of that to Mesa.

PGMA’s air cargo operations are ramping up at a good time for the airport’s goal of becoming an international port-of-entry via air.

The New York Times reported this month that manufacturers are investing billions in Mexico as they shift production away from China to be closer to U.S. markets.

In another development that could bring Mesa closer to Mexico, PMGA is beginning to plan for the possibility that its largest carrier, Las Vegas-based Allegiant Airlines, could start offering flights to Mexico from the airport.

The company announced a partnership with Mexican leisure travel carrier Viva Aerobus last year, and the carrier is currently awaiting a decision from the U.S. Department of Transportation on whether the agency will allow the collaboration.

The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported this month that Allegiant pilots oppose the merger because there are currently no assurances that Mexican pilots will not do all of the flying.

Allegiant is evidently eyeing Mesa as a site for Mexico-bound flights as it has asked airport officials if they can set up a U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility at the passenger terminal.

PMGA envisions setting up a customs facility by repurposing a 6,500-squarefoot tension fabric structure it purchased last year to serve as a temporary terminal during construction on its expanded five-gate terminal.

“Once the terminal addition is completed, we’re going to take this building down … and we’re going to try and convince U.S. Customs and Border Protection to allow us to use this as a Federal Inspection Services facility,” O’Neil said.

Immediately after the airport board meeting, SkyBridge held a groundbreaking ceremony for its next building, a 250,000-square-foot industrial space targeting air cargo, e-commerce, manufacturing and defense specialists.

Former Mesa council member David Luna touted the groundbreaking as a step forward in increasing international trade in the region.

Luna said he was involved in the City of Mesa’s efforts to bring a joint U.S. and Mexico customs facility to the airport so it could function as a port of entry.

“This is a perfect example of how the two countries can collaborate in terms of economic development,” Luna said.

Rendering shows air cargo hub Sky Bridge Arizona at build out. Air cargo giant DSV Air & Sea is leasing a hanger near SkyBridge as a first step in establishing a cargo hub at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. (Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport)

Former Mesa City Council member David Luna, center left, Gilbert Mayor Brigette Peterson, former Nogales Mayor Marco Lopez Jr., and SkyBridge Arizona President Ariel Picker break ground for the new hangars. (Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport)

New big murals augment Asian District’s vibrancy

BY SRIANTHI PERERA Tribune Contributor

Mesa’s ethnic vibrancy racked up a notch or two recently when three new murals were painted in its Asian District.

On the one-mile stretch on Dobson Road in West Mesa, roughly between Main Street and Broadway Road, a canvas of walls and pillars have yielded a treat for artistic appreciation.

Ariana Enriquez of Mesa, Sandra Bosscher from Chandler and Francisco Garcia from Phoenix have created murals at The Barcelona Center at 111 S. Dobson Road, UNITS Moving and Portable Storage at 150 S. Dobson Road and the AZ International Marketplace building at 1920 W. Broadway Road, respectively.

Another 13 small murals at Mekong Plaza, 66 S. Dobson Road, painted by Kadhima Tung of Mesa, feature Chi-

nese zodiac animals.

“The murals have been a tremendous success,” said Jaye O’Donnell, assistant director of the Mesa Office of Economic Development. “They accomplished the goal of adding vibrancy to the community and they create another reason to visit the area.”

“The murals have enhanced awareness of and introduced new audiences to the Asian District,” she noted.

“Take Flight” by Enriquez features a pair of cranes, wings outstretched, flying toward the sun amid a background of pink, red and yellow peonies.

Enriquez, a former museum worker, used cranes and peonies symbolically to pay homage to Asian culture, as they signify longevity and good fortune.

“Cranes’ connection to longevity is in honor of the families who have built the foundation of the district through the decades,” she said.

In Chinese culture, peonies are a

symbol of prosperity and Enriquez ties them to the district’s continued successes.

To Bosscher, the mural for Mesa was about creating a display of strength with a diverse community. She sought to unite various Asian cultures with an intertwining design.

Her mural, depicting a whimsical tiger, koi fish and dragon, is also symbolical.

According to Bosscher, the red sun and blue waves in her work reference traditional Japanese art. The Chinese dragon festival is featured with the dynamic movement of the dragon tying all the elements together with florals and waves.

The tiger references Thai culture and celebration of strength and power. The koi fish is a symbol of joy and friendship. The red envelopes at the tail of the dragon are symbolic in Asian culture of good wishes and luck and given on

Former museum worker Ariana Enriquez finds it refreshing to work for the public. Her large, eyecatching mural is at The Barcelona Center at 111 S. Dobson Road, Mesa. (Delia Johnson/City of Mesa)

MURALS from page 7

special occasions.

“The entire mural is capturing a celebration of diversity and the strength it brings when they come together,” she said.

The project required a forklift and ladders due to the scale of the renderings.

Enriquez’s 13’x 24,’ mural took five weeks to complete and learning to operate a lift on a narrow sidewalk.

Bosscher’s painting surface was corrugated metal, and she also had to use ladders, scaffolding and some forklift power because the final mural size was about 20’ x100.’

“They look amazing,” said Anthony Amphonephong, executive director of the Asian Chamber of Commerce.

“The one thing that we need to really establish the Asian district brand are these murals pop up and having let it be known that these murals came from community members,” he added. “They grew up here and they have a

story to convey with their murals.”

Amphonephong said he hoped to see more art because “that will make this area a lot more community driven and establish it more as the Asian district.”

The Asian District Community Mural Project is home to over 70 restaurants, grocery stores, retail shops and other businesses in the area.

The district also sports storefront logoed window clings, branded banners

and utility box wraps.

The branding efforts have gone well mainly due to the involvement of the Asian District Steering Committee, O’Donnell said. “The members of the committee helped shape the vision and mission for the branding and subsequently the murals,” she added.

While the city administers the mural project, it needs the participation of property owners.

“I hope, with the first wave of things,

these property owners will be able to see the impact these murals have on the overall Asian district,” Amphonephong said.

The city hopes to do additional signage and is working with the committee to determine its feasibility.

“We would also love to add more murals and, of course, those require participation from the area’s property owners,” O’Donnell said. “So far, we’ve had good support.”

Ariana Enriquez of Mesa says large work appeals to her because it catches people’s attention and invites them to slow down. (Delia Johnson/ City of Mesa)

Sandra Bosscher from Chandler loves to pursue new mediums of art and large-scale art. Her mural is at UNITS Moving and Portable Storage at 150 S. Dobson Road, Mesa. (Delia Johnson/City of Mesa)

2 Benedictine students make downtown banners

BY JOSH ORTEGA Tribune Staff Writer

Starting this weekend, visitors to downtown Mesa can gaze upon the newest local artists making their debut.

The Downtown Mesa Association was slated last week to hang 70 diverse banners down Main Street from Country Club to Center Street and up Center from Main to University.

Nathan Beraldo and Jonatan Amastal attend Benedictine University and designed the banners.

The students also are part of the entrepreneurial program at CO+HOOTS Mesa and now have a jump-start to their graphic design career that came by complete chance when they submitted designs to the association, which decided it wanted two sets.

“Nate presented at the CO+HOOTS opening and we asked him to give us a quote,” an association spokesman said. “He and Jonatan submitted designs and we loved them so much we did two sets One on Main and the other set on Center.”

Beraldo grew up in Brazil and moved to Sheridan, Wyoming, as a foreign exchange student. An avid soccer player, he received a scholarship to Sheridan College and studied there for two year.

Initially, Beraldo said he planned to play at San Diego State, and at the behest of his Scottsdale girlfriend, moved to Arizona in 2020 waiting for an opportunity to visit the coastal college.

“But everything got shut down and I wasn’t able to afford costs afterwards for San Diego State. I started looking for other opportunities,” Beraldo said.

Beraldo played soccer recreationally to stay in shape and inadvertently discovered a knack for designing posters for his league.

“I just learned so quickly that I just fell in love,” he said.

That’s when Beraldo discovered Benedictine University and received a scholarship to play soccer there while earning a degree in graphic design.

Beraldo has already taken the first step in his dream of starting his own digital marketing agency by opening Highlight Digital AZ, a digital marketing design company he runs out of the CO+HOOTS coworking space.

“The biggest thing I want to take advantage of is the human connection,” Beraldo said. “I know the work is digital, but I apply a good handshake. That’s what makes business connecting the best.

“Knowing that every time I walk downtown Mesa I’ll be able to see my own artwork, my own expression of love through my design,” Beraldo said. “It’s very fulfilling, it’s knowing that I’m on the right path.”

Amastal, 22, a senior at Benedictine University also works as part of the entrepreneurship program at CO+HOOTS Mesa coworking space.

Born in Puebla, Mexico Amastal moved to the U.S. in 2007 and has lived in Mesa ever since.

Initially, Amastal majored in computer science, but after attending a graphic design class taught by Brian Higgins, he developed a new passion and changed majors.

“With the help of CO+HOOTS and Professor Higgins, Nate and I have started our journey in being business

owners,” Amastal said. He currently helps Beraldo with Highlight Digital AZ but would like to start his own graphics business helping minorities, specifically Hispanic self-starters.

see BANNERS page 11

Brick Fest Live brings out LEGO fans to Mesa

BY JOSH ORTEGA Tribune Staff Writer

Since 2014, Brick Fest Live has brought a whole new meaning to the term block party.

That became clear Feb. 18-19 at Bell Bank Park in Mesa as LEGO fans of all ages who marveled at the creativity that comes from the plastic interconnectable bricks.

Interactive stations contributed to a floor mosaic of DC Comics and Marvel Comics characters made of more than 73,000 individual LEGOs.

Kalani Tran, Brick Fest Live show manager, estimated more than 8,000 people visited the expansive convention floor, bragging that despite “a little hiatus” during the pandemic, the tour has stopped in over 40 cities.

see LEGO page 12

BANNERS from page 9

In his designs for the Downtown Mesa Association, Amastal wanted to highlight key aspects of downtown Mesa, such as brewing, food, antiques, and music, and make the designs to portray a city that is developing and evolving developing but keeps true to its roots.

Originally, Amastal references a random antique clock for his clock design,

but he said the association “gave me the great idea of using the clock located by MacDonald and Main Street.”

“I am definitely thankful for the advice as it strengthens the design in its portrayal of downtown,” Amastal said.

“I am extremely grateful to the DMA as well as CO+HOOTS for the opportunity it provided, and last but not least Professor Higgins for taking the time to answer some questions I had and giving me feedback as well.”

WARNING!

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY AND CHRONIC PAIN TREATMENTS NOT WORKING!!

Mesa, AZ – When it comes to chronic pain and/ or neuropathy, the most common doctor-prescribed treatment is drugs like Gabapentin, Lyrica, Cymbalta, and Neurontin. The problem with antidepressants or anti-seizure medications like these is that they offer purely symptomatic relief, as opposed to targeting and treating the root of the problem. Worse, these drugs often trigger an onset of uncomfortable, painful, and sometimes harmful side effects.

The only way to effectively treat chronic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy is by targeting the source, which is the result of nerve damage owing to inadequate blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet. This often causes weakness, numbness, balance problems. A lack of nutrients causes the nerves degenerate – an insidious

cannot survive, and thus, slowly die. This leads to those painful and frustrating consequences we were talking about earlier, like weakness, numbness, tingling, balance issues, and perhaps even a burning sensation.

The drugs your doctor might prescribe will temporarily conceal the problems, putting a “Band-Aid” over a situation that will only continue to deteriorate without further action.

Thankfully, Mesa is the birthplace of a brandnew facility that sheds new light on this pressing problem of peripheral neuropathy and chronic pain. The company is trailblazing the medical industry by replacing outdated drugs and symptomatic reprieves with an advanced machine that targets the root of the problem at hand.

1. Finding the underlying cause

2. Determining the extent of the nerve damage (above 95% nerve loss is rarely treatable)

3. The amount of treatment required for the patient’s unique condition

Aspen Medical in Mesa, AZ uses a state-of-the-art electric cell signaling systems worth $100,000.00. Th is ground-breaking treatment is engineered to achieve the following, accompanied by advanced diagnostics and a basic skin biopsy to accurately analyze results:

1. Increases blood flow

2. Stimulates and strengthens small fiber nerves

3. Improves brain-based pain

The treatment works by delivering energy to the affected area(s) at varying wavelengths, from low- to middle-frequency signals, while also using Amplitude Modulated (AM) and Frequency Modulated (FM) signaling.

It’s completely painless!

THE GREAT NEWS IS THAT THIS TREATMENT IS COVERED BY MEDICARE, MEDICAID, AND MOST INSURANCES!!

The number of treatments required varies from patient to patient, and can only be determined following an in-depth neurological and vascular examination. As long as you have less than 95% nerve damage, there is hope!

Aspen Medical begins by analyzing the extent of the nerve damage –a complimentary service for your friends and family. Each exam comprises a detailed sensory evaluation, extensive peripheral vascular testing, and comprehensive analysis of neuropathy findings.

Aspen Medical will be offering this free chronic pain and neuropathy severity evaluation will be available until February 28th, 2023 Call (480) 274-3157 to make an appointment

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Graphic designers Nathan Beraldo and Jonatan Amastal, at CO+HOOTS Coworking in Mesa, are excited about Benedictine University students’ new banners. (David Minton/Tribune Staff Photographer)

The college student started working for the LEGO convention nearly two years ago and said sets like the LEGO Star Wars garner nostalgia from his childhood playing with the bricks.

He also said they have unlimited potential to inspire, educate and entertain a growing audience.

“We just want to engage people in the creativity, the education, and the fun of what LEGOs can do for you,” Tran said.

Manny Garcia and his father, Nestor, appeared on season one of LEGO Masters competing against nine other teams for $100,000, trophy and title of LEGO Masters.

A barber by trade, Manny has honed his creative genius since his dad bought him his first LEGO set when he was 4 and growing up in Puerto Rico.

Although the father-son team did not win on the show, they now work as brand ambassadors for Brick Fest Live.

“We just continue having a love and passion for LEGO and we just want to continue inspiring and motivating other father-and-sons and mother-and-daughters,” Manny said. While LEGOs may start as a mess of bricks and book of instructions, Garcia said LEGOs build both a creation and a sense of accomplishment in people of all ages who find daily victory in creating something.

“The suggestion says 8-12 [years old],” Manny said. “That still doesn’t mean that somebody in their 30s or in their 40s can’t build that, can’t buy that box and find that same sense of victory and fulfillment building on something. I think that’s very important.”

Among the life-sized models of samurais and merchants selling new, vintage, and custom were fan-built displays like Zachary Repp’s small sample from his collection.

His mother Tracey Zachary bought his first set when he was 6 and said she enjoys watching him build the kits and illustrates his imagination.

“But then once he gets a kit, he builds it but then he takes it apart and does his own modifications to it” Tracey said. “So, he’s become very creative with that.”

The Peoria residents loaded down their car and made the trek to East Mesa to show off just a small sampling of Zachary’s collection.

Zachary’s setup sat near the main entrance and Tracey said she enjoyed seeing people look at his creativity and skills of the artistic layout that seems to tell a story.

“They’re watching like all the movements that he’s done, his attention to detail,” Tracey said. “They’re

looking at the way that he poses it so it starts to tell a story.”

The layout had at least 200 small sets including Ninjago, a fantasyinspired collection that spawned a movie and 210-episode series, and a train set that rolls along a track interwoven through the entire layout.

Zachary, now 15, remembers his first LEGO set, a “LEGO City” mining truck from which he still used a small plastic boulder in his display.

He enjoys not only re-creating stories from the Ninjago series but also creating his own stories and sharing his passion with other likeminded fans.

“Yes, it’s nice to have all these sets and display in my room, but I really like to show other people what I’ve done,” Zachary said.

Zachary said he finds building LEGOs relaxing and suggest a good coping strategy for anger because people can draw on inspiration from other places and people, building a larger community.

“You can take it apart and build your own creations and I just think that’s incredible,” Zachary said. “And I get lots of inspiration from other people, and then I give other people inspiration for them to build their own thing.”

Family takes ‘leap of faith’ on reality TV

BY JOSH ORTEGA Tribune Staff Writer

When the Cook family of Mesa heard about a new reality show, they looked at it as an opportunity to strengthen their bond. So they jumped at the chance to be part of “Survivalists,” a reality show on Brigham Young University TV hosted by adventurer Colin O’Brady that pits two families against each other in a threeday trek across rugged terrain competing in outdoor challenges at remote parts of the world.

Families must use teamwork, communication and survival skills and along the way, they learn to heal, forgive and forge ahead.

Lane, Kathryn, Addison and Savannah Cook appeared on Season Three, Episode Two that premiered on Jan. 22. Nearly a thousand families applied and the Cooks made the cut for the season’s final 20 groups of contestants.

They flew to Mexico and for four days and three nights, the Cooks embarked on a timed race through the Baja California desert, traversing deep sand and overcoming various challenges with only a 40-pound backpack full of their

gear and each other.

On the second day, Addison Cook recalled the excitement she felt seeing a set of bicycles and thought they wouldn’t have to walk through deep sand anymore.

But sadly, they only turned a corner to their next challenge: a steep and unforgiving hill.

“It was so steep,” Addison said, whose families dubbed it “hell hill.”

Amid the anguish of Addison bawl-

ing her eyes out, Savannah cussing like a sailor and their dad dying for a break, Kathryn said the thrill of crossing the finish the line became their only motivator.

“It was really tough and it was hard, but we wanted to finish and do it,” Kathryn said.

The episode’s title, “Leap of Faith” came from the family’s third day when they trekked up a canyon and came upon a 50-foot waterfall with one simple challenge: if every member of the team

jumped off the waterfall, they would take an hour off their overall course time and enjoy a warm, cooked dinner.

Temptation hit hard given the family subsisted for the last three days off beef jerky, granola bars and just-add-hot-water instant meals. Along with a competitive advantage, Kathryn said the family jumped at the opportunity, despite her terrifying fear of heights.

“I am not a jumper,” Kathryn said.

The girls of the family made the jump but without the family patriarch, who had to drop out of the contest due to medical reasons.

“He was just really experiencing a lot of pain and issues that made us kind of go really slow, which was really sad,” Kathryn said. “But we just we wanted to finish.”

Medical staff advised that if an emergency happened, the remote location of the waterfall would make rescue possible albeit very difficult. So, erring on the side of caution, Lane dropped out.

Unlike their friend, who appeared on the first season and won the $10,000 prize, the family did not.

But Kathryn said simply finishing the

SURVIVAL page 15

Mesa woman hosting annual Golden Retriever meet

Road, Mesa.

cue in Gilbert.

Mesa resident Renee Bellefeuille says golden retrievers are such friendly canines, they would enjoy meeting fellow goldens as much as their owners.

So between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, March 4, Bellefeuille will hold her fourth annual Gathering of Goldens at Red Mountain Park, 7445 E. Brown

This year, Bellefeuille is adding a parade around the park for the dogs and their proud owners in a gathering that has steadily frown since she started it three years ago.

Though the event is free, she’s adding a charitable dimension with “Goldens Giving for a Good Cause” and asks attendees to bring canned dog food for donation to Friends for Life Animal Res-

“Our goal is to collect 500 cans or more,” she said, although she doesn’t want donations of Beneful, Old Roy or Alpo.

The on-leash event is open only to dogs that are up to date on their vaccines and are pet- and people-friendly.

She’s encouraged by the growing popularity of her event, which last year attracted 50 Golden Retrievers.

“I think pairing charitable events with fun get-togethers is a great way to bring awareness to local organizations that do so much good,” she said.

Bellefeuille has high hopes for the event’s impact. When she started the gathering in 2020, “My goal was to meet regularly for other outdoor activities which we could do with our dogs such as

RETRIEVER page 15

TRIBUNE NEWS STAFF

Mesa residents, from left, Lane, Kathryn, Addison and Savannah Cook appeared on Season Three, Episode Two of the reality show “Survivalists” on BYU TV. (Special to the Tribune)

competition gave sense of accomplishment, especially for her daughters.

“It was really, really hard to see their dad's struggle,” Kathryn said. “That was really hard for them.”

Lane in March will mark eight years in remission from follicular non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma – a type of slow-growing blood cancer that affects white blood cells. For seven years, Lane battled through five different chemotherapy treatments.

Lane graduated with his master’s degree from Thunderbird International Management School and in 2000 started operating a U.S. company in Guadalajara, Mexico.

But the Westwood High alum wanted to start his own business and in January 2003 the couple moved to Mesa. Now, Lane owns Vision Makers International stone supplier with showrooms in Mesa,

Scottsdale, and Bluffdale, Utah.

Although they didn’t win, Kathyrn said she went into this ordeal as a life lesson to teach her daughters that overcoming difficult situations gives confidence for future endeavors.

The lesson is not lost on Addison, who credits her success to her faith in God.

“He wouldn’t give me trials I can’t overcome that,” Addison said. “During the challenge, I thought I was not going to be able to do it, and it was so hard that I would doubt myself a lot, and doubt that we could even finish, but we finished.”

Kathryn also credited her husband as an “absolute trooper” for agreeing to try the experience even though he “really shouldn’t have been doing it.”

“So, I’m really thankful for that experience we had even though we didn’t win the money, it was worth the experience,” Kathryn said.

MorrisDavidDorenfeld SPRUCEHEADMaineTapestryArtist MorrisDavid(Morrie) Dorenfeldpassedaway peacefullyatSussman HouseinRockport,ME onMondaymorning, February13,2023,one monthshyofhis86th birthday.Acelebration ofhislifeisbeing plannedforthespring.Thosewhowouldlike toreadafullobituarymaydosoonhisBook ofMemoriesatwww.bchfh.com SigntheGuestbookat: obituaries.EastValleyTribune.com

He’s about 7 years old and is her fifth Golden.

hiking, camping and going to dog friendly events and also just share training tips and ‘talk Golden.’”

“Unfortunately, COVID-19 hit right after (the 2020) event so this was not possible.”

Bellefeuille calls her golden retriever JayBee – which is short for his official name, JayBee Chapter 5, Life is Good.

“Golden Retrievers are such a great breed,” she said. “They love to socialize with people and other dogs. Since the event is at City of Mesa park and not a dog park, the dogs needed to be on leashes. However, I think the dogs and people attending still enjoyed themselves.”

Information: 602-793-9434.

Golden Retrievers brought their owners to the third annual Gathering of the Goldens in Mesa last year and organizer Renee Bellefeuille hopes the steadily growing throng will see bigger numbers this year. (Special to the Tribune)

Downtown Mesa store serves backyard farmers

BY JOSH ORTEGA Tribune Staff Writer

With increased egg prices, a downtown Mesa farm store helps people from running around like chickens with their heads cut off.

Inspire Farms Happy Healthy Organic is a small family-run feed shop at 206 E. Main St. in the heart of downtown Mesa that opened during the pandemic.

Tiffiny Lilley said she started with the basic goal of creating a convenient and easy to access source for organic nonGMO animals and feed without having to buy in bulk and like name given by her daughter.

A GMO, or genetically modified organism, is a plant, animal, microorganism or other organism whose genetic makeup has been modified in a laboratory using genetic engineering or transgenic technology, according to the NonGMO Project, which campaigns against combinations of plant, animal, bacterial and virus genes that do not occur in nature or through traditional crossbreeding methods.

“We inspire farms, one backyard at a time,” Lilley said. “And I also hope that I’m inspiring people to do it in a really colorful happy way.”

Lilley moved to Arizona in 2004 from California to become a homeowner and now owns a half-acre property with her husband downtown that is full of colorfully painted coops for her own chickens.

It all started as “hanging out with some cute chicks” while homeschooling her daughters but hatched into a whole new endeavor.

“I thought that raising chickens would be a lot of wonderful learning lessons,” Lilley said. “And it was, and we loved it and the kids were super-excited about it

for the first year.”

Eventually, her kids grew up and Lilley grew attached to the chicks and started a feed store that piggybacked off her husband’s company at a warehouse near Broadway and Extension Road, a grassroots operation to provide her chickens the best possible feed at the most affordable price.

After closing that warehouse, Lilley said she opened the downtown store, expanding the retail of more fresh, organic locally grown options as well as live chickens.

“In the last three years, it’s grown incredibly, because I think people finally realize the value of keeping chickens in the backyard and the different benefits, besides just eggs,” Lilley said.

Inspire Farms focuses on organic non-GMO feed for a variety of fowl and farm animals, but also sells feeders, durable Made-in-the-USA coops and other items that help support urban farming and creative sustainability, blending creativity with wholesome options “to create happier, healthier families and communities.”

More than just selling feed and fowl, Lilley wants to educate people about the ecosystem they’ll bring into their backyard that ensure they always have a resource to come back time and time again.

Now, raising chickens has become a hot commodity to the point where Lilley said she’s considered teaching Chicken 101 to answer all fowl questions.

“I let them know as they progress through the experience of raising chicks that they can always come back in reach out and get their questions answered because they’ll have new ones as they as they grow,” Lilley said.

Lilley said she once wrote an article about with a dozen Grade A reasons to keep chickens, besides the obvious rea-

son of fresh eggs, including pest control, compost turning, beautiful “ornaments” in yards and feeding the topsoil.

She calls topsoil “one of the number one commodities on the planet that is going away and is being stripped and chickens help replace that.”

A big contributor to “eggflation” comes from some of the largest egg producers “culling” their stock – sending an inferior or surplus farm animal to slaughter.

It takes six to eight weeks to get baby chicks outside and another four to six months and up to a year for a chicken to start laying eggs, and culling birds will lead to a gap in production.

Lilley said when the pandemic, production would be disrupted.

“When that happened, that was my thought: ‘we’re going to feel this in a

year or two,’” Lilley said.

But a decrease in production could also come from nature itself because chickens need 14 hours of daylight to lay properly, Lilley said.

During the winter, a lack of sunlight creates a lack of eggs, and with less eggs demand goes up. A quick fix: an LED light on a timer in a coop.

“It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive,” Lilley said. “A little extra light can make a big difference.”

She also advises would-be chicken farmers to rethink what they eat and in turn what their food eats, avoiding things like dog kibble, because if you won’t eat it, your chickens shouldn’t either.

“Your eggs are going to be only as see FARMERS page 17

Tiffiny Lilley of Inspire Farms holds Ms. Frizzle and Monty, a Serama hen and rooster. (David Minton/ Tribune Staff Photographer)

FARMERS from page 16

good as what you feed your birds and a lot of people years back didn’t think about that,” Lilley said.

Lilley said she sells her feed at a “cottage discount” below retail and though it requires her to sell a little more, she focuses on selling organic non-GMO feed for chickens, ducks, goats, horses, rabbits, turkey, quail and other game birds. She only stocks her customers’ favorite products.

Their custom order process works to ensure a constant influx of orders for indemand products, including the various breeds of chickens on her website.

Special orders or items out of stock will automatically replenish with their next feed order every two to four weeks and customers will receive a notification for upon arrival.

An artist at heart, Lilley said she hopes she makes people happy when looking at her art, such as the mural in the parking lot of her store that draws people in and motivates them to have fun with their farms.

Heather Russell started as a customer buying the raw milk has now worked at Inspire Farms for more than two years.

A new chicken farmer herself, Russell said, “It’s like you could walk in the door and we have everything you need, if you want chickens in your backyard. And if you don’t, then we offer a lot of fresh lo-

cal farm things.”

Stella Wick started working there in July as a part of an internship while studying sustainable food systems and biomimetic design at Arizona State University.

Wick said she also just walked in one day for raw milk and other organic foods and said now works as a full-time employee.

Wick comes from a long line of North Dakota farmers, but grew up in Portland, Oregon, where family owns chickens.

She loves how the store aligned with the values and dreams she has for more sustainable food systems.

“I’d like to see how I can apply sustainable design into our food system so that you know we’re wasting less, we’re being more efficient with the resources that we have,” Wick said. “More people are connected to their food which is important for human health and overall connectivity.”

Though she still lives in an apartment and can’t own chickens yet, Wick said she loves working at the store and meeting new people who have the same interests in food as her.

“I love meeting all the people here, I love working with everyone and I get to learn more about local food and farmers and really what it takes to connect people with their food all the time,” Wick said. “I love it here.”

Information: inspire farms.com

Inspire Farms in Mesa has an array of fee products for backyard farming. (David Minton/Tribune Staff Photographer)

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Tribune Columnist

The first time I visited Nogales to see the Mexican border with my own eyes was more than 20 years ago.

George W. Bush was President and the border was a sieve. A rancher named Roger Barnett gave me a tour of his land near Douglas, where he detained border crossers by the score. Later, I headed to Nogales and spoke to the Border Patrol officers.

One statistic lodged in my mind.

That year, the Border Patrol reported 1.6 million “encounters” with migrants along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Fast forward 20 years. Little has changed except for the name of our president. In 2021, the last year for which we have complete numbers, the Border Patrol again reported 1.6 million encounters with migrants.

I mention it because the story of George Alan Kelly and Gabriel Cuen-Butimea should come as absolutely no surprise.

Kelly, a 75-year-old rancher, has been charged with first-degree homicide for allegedly shooting down Cuen-Butimea in cold blood on Jan. 30 near Kino Springs in Santa Cruz County. Kelly also faces two counts of assault for allegedly shooting two of Cuen-Butimea’s compatriots.

“Mr. Kelly shot an unarmed man in the back in an unprovoked attack as he ran for his life,” said Kimberly Hunley, the chief deputy Santa Cruz County Attorney, in a Feb. 22 court hearing. “There was no warning and the victim was more than 100 yards from the defendant’s residence when he was shot and killed.”

Kelly and his court-appointed lawyer call this version of the story absolutely false.

As Kelly tells the tale through court documents, he and his wife Wanda were about to eat lunch when he heard a gunshot. He looked outside and saw a “group of men” brandishing AK-47s “moving through the trees around his home.”

Kelly says he grabbed a rifle. “As he

shot, Mr. Kelly took care to aim well over the heads of the armed group of men,” a defense motion says. “The group then began running into the desert surrounding his home.”

The Kellys called the Border Patrol, which came to investigate. The feds found nothing and left. Come sundown, Kelly went to check on his horse. That’s when he says he found a body.

“The cause of death appeared to be a single gunshot wound, and it appeared that the body was fresh,” according to the defense. “The person had a radio with him, and he was wearing tactical boots, indicating that he was possibly involved in illegal activity.”

No bullet has been found to determine which gun fired the deadly shot. Thus far, it appears the prosecutor’s case is based mostly on the testimony of Kelly’s two other alleged victims.

Unimpressed, the defense says, “It is entirely possible that the person found on Mr. Kelly’s property was a victim of other drug traffickers.”

Nothing has changed on the Mexican border Feds’ alphabet soup becomes gruel in Ohio

BY JD HAYWORTH Tribune Columnist

For the better part of four generations, Americans have grown into adulthood seemingly afloat upon an ocean of acronyms.

That’s especially true when it comes to our federal government.

News from Washington is filled with letters denoting governmental entities—DOJ, FBI, CIA…CDC, OMB— and the one agency that expects to hear directly from you every April 15—the IRS.

What most of us find especially taxing is the explosion of acronyms that corresponds with the exponential growth of

government.

Bill Clinton may have said “The Era of Big Government is over” in early 1995 but 9-11, the Age of Obama, and the “Pandemic Panic” ensured that polltested phrase would end up in history’s wastebasket.

More resilient and reliable is the humor of the late Ronald Reagan. Our 40th President, speaking at a 1986 press conference, famously quipped, “The nine most terrifying words in the English language are: ‘I’m from the government, and I’m here to help.’”

Sure enough, there’s one federal agency that is supposed to answer urgent calls for assistance requiring the

resources of the Feds.

It answers to the acronym FEMA—the Federal Emergency Management Agency. As the name implies it is supposed to assist states, cities, towns— and wherever afflicted Americans can be found in times of peril.

But like the Reagan observation of almost 40 years ago, a recent national emergency did not result in an urgent response from Uncle Sam—and unlike the Gipper’s anecdote—there’s nothing funny about it.

On the first Friday night in February, a Norfolk Southern train pulling close to 150 freight cars derailed in East Palestine, Ohio.

Predictably, Kelly’s case has spawned massive international media coverage. He remains in jail on $1 million bond, the subject of death threats and on 23-hour lockdown.

Multiple GoFundMes have been started to pay for his defense – and been shut down because the case is so controversial.

On the political right, Kelly has become a hero, his case a cautionary tale of the evil left. As one conservative blogger spins it: “How is it that Mr. Kelly finds himself in this position? It is because of the lawlessness of the progressive socialist left, the Biden administration, to enact an unconstitutional open borders policy.”

I believe two things about this case with all my heart.

One, Kelly is innocent until proven guilty. And two, nothing at the border has changed in 20 years, no matter the president, no matter the political promises, no matter the lengthy list of the dead.

Twenty of those cars were carrying hazardous materials, and five of them were filled with vinyl chloride. That’s the chemical compound associated with increased risk for liver cancer, and other forms of that disease, according to another federally funded entity, the National Cancer Institute—also known by its acronym, NCI.

Given the dangers, you would think that an SOS would emanate from that eastern Ohio town – and also from affected Pennsylvanians, who live just across the nearby state line.

In fact, that distress call did go out—

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Ronald McDonald houses help families in need

BY KERRY SCHULMAN Tribune Guest Writer

The history and mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central and Northern Arizona are powerful: to be a welcoming “home-away-from-home” for families with children facing medical challenges, providing an atmosphere of comfort, hope, and courage.

Imagine receiving the news that your child is extremely sick, and the medical care needed is across the state.

On top of the anxiety and concern about your child’s well-being is the stress of leaving your support system behind, figuring out where you will stay, and how you will pay for it all.

Unexpected medical bills, the cost of transportation, and a hotel stay quickly add up.

That is why RMHCCNAZ exists. We provide hundreds of families each year with a comfortable and safe place to stay close to their hospitalized children.

Our goal is to take care of families’ basic needs so they can focus 100% of their energy on advocating for their children and helping them heal.

In response to the growing need for our services, we now have three locations that boast a total of 72 rooms to accommodate families.

Our Dobson House was established on the campus of Banner Children’s at Desert in 2014.

At all three of our locations, we truly provide families with all the comforts of home, including access to free Wi-Fi, a community pantry, laundry facilities, a community kitchen and dining room, playroom, library,

family room, and shaded playgrounds.

Providing access to quality pediatric healthcare is at the heart of our Keeping Families Together Program.

Because families are not asked to pay anything during their stay, RMHCCNAZ levels the playing field for all families experiencing a pediatric health crisis.

It does, however, cost RMHCCNAZ $107 to house and support one family for one night.

We ensure all families can access the medical specialists their children need, not just those families with the resources to cover costly hotel stays and transportation expenses.

A total of 3,009 children and adults were served at RMHCCNAZ last year and benefitted from 15,539 nights of rest.

More than half the families we serve are considered low-income and eligible for Medicaid, and 53% of the young patients we served in 2022 were between birth and five years old.

The top pediatric diagnoses our families faced in 2022 were birth defects and complications from premature birth, heart conditions, neurological disorders, and pediatric cancer.

RMHCCNAZ is unique and promotes long-term health outcomes for families.

No other organization in central and northern Arizona provides free, temporary lodging, nourishing meals, and necessities to families experiencing a pediatric health crisis far from home and their support systems.

We are so grateful for the support from across our community that allows us to continue to support families in need.

The generosity of businesses, community groups, and generous individuals ensures that families are welcome to stay at our Houses for as long as they need, free of charge.

Kerry Schulman is CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central and Northern Arizona.

HAYWORTH from page 18

but for some reason, the bureaucrats on the banks of the Potomac weren’t especially keen on offering a quick response. Instead, those “acronym bearing swamp dwellers” embraced an anachronism—the old advertising slogan of a bygone era: “Long Distance is the next best thing to being there.”

So with Official Washington content to “phone it in,” state and local officials— along with railroad representatives— worked over that first February weekend to contain a catastrophe that soon grew even more catastrophic.

Officials on the ground observed a “drastic temperature change” in one of the rail cars carrying vinyl chloride, and that prompted a drastic decision.

Fearing a massive explosion that could scatter shrapnel over a mile-wide area, authorities opted to evacuate East Palestine on Sunday evening, then initiate a “controlled release” of the toxic chemical the following day.

When that “vent and burn” began in

the late afternoon of Monday, Feb.6, a mushroom cloud soon took shape, prompting one official to comment that the small town had been “nuked.”

Certainly it made the situation even more politically “radioactive” for elected officials, but it was much worse for residents who were eventually allowed— and encouraged—to return to their homes.

They found pets and livestock sick and dying…and the water in nearby creeks shimmering with an ominous rainbow hue.

Even the air that they breathed concerned the townspeople, as officials explained that the evacuation was required since more than vinyl chloride was released.

Phosgene and hydrogen chloride fumes also escaped.

Phosgene was used as a chemical weapon in World War I—a highly toxic gas that causes vomiting and breathing difficulties…and some area residents began suffering from those symptoms long after authorities had given the “all clear.”

Still unclear is Washington’s lack of motivation to provide a “muscular response.”

Is it because East Palestine, Ohio is not “diverse” enough?

Recall that Vice President Harris initially suggested that post-Hurricane Ian aid to Florida be based on “equity, and understanding that not everyone starts out at the same place…sometimes we have to take into account those disparities.”

Or could it be the disparity between the 2020 vote totals in East Palestine? The Trump/Pence ticket received 906 more votes than Biden/Harris… a margin far greater than the 641 ballots cast in favor of Joe and Kamala.

What casts a political shadow on all of this is the fact that FEMA finally decided to show up in East Palestine… as soon as Donald Trump announced that he would personally visit on Feb. 22.

Which proves that the acronym giving Joe Biden a “sinking feeling” is spelled “GOP.”

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EV gridiron players honored for play

BY JOSH ORTEGA Tribune Staff Writer

Austin Johnston and Adam Damante played vital roles this past season, helping their respective football programs win state championships.

So, it came as no surprise the two were recognized for their play.

Damante, quarterback for American Leadership Academy-Gilbert North, and Johnston, wide receiver for Eastmark High School were recognized by the Arizona Cardinals and Circle K for their achievements during the 2022 Arizona high school football season.

Damante was named Offensive Player of the Year and Johnston was named Special Teams Player of the Year.

The students were two of the five names honored during a ceremony before Cardinals’ game against the New England Patriots on Monday Night Foot-

ball on Dec. 12 at State Farm Stadium. At the ceremony, this year’s winners met past winners, including Cardinals cornerback and Saguaro alum Byron

Murphy, who won the award in 2015 when he attended Marcos de Niza High School in Tempe.

Past winners also include players like

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, who played at Perry, and University of Texas running back Bijan Robinson from Salpointe Catholic in Tucson.

Damante said it’s an honor to sit in that company of such great football talent.

“That’s crazy that they’ve won the award as well, and I’m really excited to be named with this award,” Damante said.

Johnston said it’s an honor to meet one of the past winners and have his name in the company of such talent.

“Obviously not a lot of players win this award, and it’s great that I was able to win this award for my teammates and my school,” Johnston said.

Damante finished the season completing 244-of-355 passes for 4,110 yards and 51 touchdowns. He also ran for 451 yards and six touchdowns.

see AWARDS page 23

East Valley athletes shine at wrestling finals

BY ANDREW LWOWSKI Tribune Contributing Writer

Chants of “Two! Two! Two!” and cheers from family and friends rained down on all the state’s top wrestlers from every school and division as they battled in the 2023 AIA state championship at Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Feb. 18. Sunnyside of Tucson proved to be the top dog again in Division I, coming in first with a dominant 307.5 points and placing 13 kids throughout the 14 weight classes.

“It almost seemed like it was Sunnyside versus all the matches out there,” Hamilton coach Travis Miller said half

jokingly.

However, the East Valley made sure it was well represented with 41 kids placed from Ahwatukee, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek and Tempe.

In Division I, Mountain View came in third with 135 points with seven kids placing. Desert Vista came in a close fourth place with 122 points, placing five.

Logan Smith, who placed third at 132 pounds for Desert Vista, said he was disappointed in his performance, as well as the Thunder’s.

“I could’ve done better,” he said. “Not what we (as a team) expected. We could’ve done better definitely.”

Despite his disappointment, Smith will leave Desert Vista with numerous

accolades under his belt.

The third-place win secures his spot as the only Thunder wrestler currently on the team to place at state in the topthree in all four years of high school. He’s also the program’s only current fourtime sectionals champion all in different weight classes.

Smith signed with Central College earlier this month, a Division III school in Iowa. He is currently weighing his options, however, as he may decide to pursue a different route in college.

One of Smith’s teammates, Carter Holt, placed third at 138 pounds for Desert Vista. He echoed Smith’s testament that the Thunder underperformed and were disappointed with their results.

“We did better earlier in the week,” he said. “We didn’t expect Damen (Miller) to lose. We couldn’t get it done tonight.”

Miller, who wrestles at 144 pounds, was the only Desert Vista wrestler competing in a state title match. He fell Sunnyside’s Christian Rivera.

Casteel fell in fifth place with 91 points while Desert Ridge placed sixth with 79 points.

Hamilton nearly cracked the top-10 at 11 with 50.5 points.

“Being at the DI level, you never know what’s going to happen,” Hamilton coach Travis Miller said. “There’s a lot of good competition, but I’m really proud of our

American Leadership Academy – Gilbert North senior Adam Damante was named the Arizona Cardinals Offensive Player of the Year for his role in the Eagles’ run to the 4A Conference championship. (Dave Minton/Tribune Staff)

AWARDS from page 22

Damante also nabbed Player of the Week honors during Week 4 of the regular season when ALA-Gilbert North visited Prescott High School and beat the Badgers 55-35.

The Eagles took the lead with five minutes to go in the first quarter and never looked back with Damante attacking the Badgers in the air, throwing for 464 yards and seven touchdowns. He also ran for 63 yards and one touchdown in the game.

Damante capped off his award-winning season by leading ALA-Gilbert North to a 4A Conference title over Snowflake at Sun Devil Stadium.

Damante credits his teammates and coaches with giving him the opportunity to shine on the field this season.

“They’ve all helped me win this award, you know—calling the right plays, letting me have the ball in my hands and executing plays and having the stats that I have to win this award,” Damante said.

Damante signed with Northern Ari-

zona University to continue his football career next fall. But he enjoyed the “really good bond” the Eagles had this past season and reaped the rewards for the work they put in throughout.

“Sometimes our team is a little selfish a little bit, but this team is all one and

just together and really cares about the team success more than just the oneperson success,” Damante said.

In 14 games for Eastmark this season, Johnston totaled 285 yards on seven kickoff returns with one touchdown and returned 14 punts for 451 yards and four

touchdowns.

He credits his teammates and coaches for this honor.

“I could not be more thankful for my teammates and my coaches for being able to allow me to get this award,” Johnston said.

The senior said he had some of his best performances against top-ranked Thatcher, including a Week 2 matchup at Thatcher when he had 216 all-purpose yards and three touchdowns, one of which came as a punt return for 75 yards in the team’s only loss of the season.

But Eastmark got its revenge in the state championship, capturing the 3A Conference title against Thatcher. Johnston accrued 141 total yards and three touchdowns in the game.

Johnston signed with Augustana University in February. He said shortly after winning the award from the Cardinals that he was excited to see where the sport would take him at the next level.

“I’m just kind of excited to see how everything plays out and where football ends up taking me,” Johnston said.

Eastmark senior Austin Johnston was named the Arizona Cardinals Special Teams Player of the Year for his ability as a return specialist. The Firebirds captured the 3A Conference championship last fall. (Dave Minton/Tribune Staff)

WRESTLING from page 22

kids and how well they did and the placers we had making the podium. Putting Hamilton near the top-10 for us is big. I’m proud.”

Miller added that his second-place finisher at 165 pounds, Grant Murray, gave Mike Avelar of Sunnyside — who is committed at the collegiate Division I level — a run for his money.

“He (wrestling in his first state finals) really brought it to him,” Miller said. “He made a seasoned champion look a little bit nervous before championships do what champions do.”

Chandler, Corona del Sol and Queen Creek closed out the East Valley in Division I.

Queen Creek coach Joel Anderson acknowledged the dominance by Sunnyside but credited his boys for the grueling season and effort in the championship rounds.

“I’m incredibly proud of my boys,” Anderson said. “You know, the season is long, not everyone sees the mat during

the season, it’s tough. But the determination and grit make it here and to have my boys on that podium, it feels great.”

The Bulldogs placed two wrestlers, Riggs Anderson with fourth place at heavyweight (285 lbs) and Beau Shep-

herd with third place at 135 lbs. The East Valley had little action in Division II, with Marlin Whyte of Mountain Pointe being the only contender, placing first at 165 lbs. The Pride finished 17th in Division II.

While Mesquite and Marcos de Niza were the two East Valley programs featured in Division III, the Wildcats had four make the podium. Angelo Martinez placed fifth at 106, Trevor Ouellette placed third at 120, Eli Conde placed second at 138 and Michael Story placed fifth at heavy weight.

Lius Pichardo was the lone Padre in Division III to place for Marcos de Niza, he finished third at 165.

The East Valley was well represented on the girls’ side early Saturday morning. Casteel’s girls finished in third place. The Colts were led by Isabella Munoz, who captured her third state championship in 145, as well as Anneliese Kisting (126) who was in the finals for the second time in her career.

Freshman Mia Johnson took fifth in her first state meet for Casteel.

Mountain View’s Taina Uasike placed second in the 185-pound class. Her finish is the highest in the history of the Toro girls’ wrestling program. Basha’s Trinity Bouchal captured her second state title wrestling in 165.

Several East Valley athletes represented their respective schools at a high level Saturday, Feb. 18 at Veteran’s Memorial Coliseum in Phoenix for the state championship wrestling meet. (Courtesy Desert Vista High School)

Neuropathy or Poor Circulation? Diagnosing the Difference

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that involves damage to the nerves in your feet. Symptoms include muscle cramping, difficulty walking, burning, tingling, numbness, and pain. In many cases, it’s caused by diabetes, but poor circulation can also cause these symptoms or make them worse. Poor circulation or PAD (peripheral artery disease) is caused by the buildup of fatty material inside the arteries, limiting the amount of blood that

passes through them. “Blood brings oxygen and nutrients to your legs and feet which they need to stay healthy,” explains Dr. Shahram Askari of CiC Foot & Ankle. “If you have cramping, leg pain, or non-healing sores, you could have PAD.”

The good news is specialists are able to treat PAD with a minimally invasive procedure in an office setting. Using x-ray imaging, Dr. Joel Rainwater, an interventional radiologist at Com-

prehensive Integrated Care, is able to go into the bloodstream through a tiny nick in the skin to see if there is any plaque buildup.

“We’re able to see if there is a blockage and then remove it with special instruments,” explains Dr. Rainwater. “Once the plaque is removed, blood flow improves.” Patients are home within hours and back to everyday activities with almost no downtime and no stitches. Medi-

care as well as most insurance plans cover treatment.

If you’re just realizing that you may be suffering from neuropathy or poor circulation, make an appointment to see a doctor. Or, if you’re not finding relief from medication or treatment, a second opinion may be helpful to determine the cause of the tingling, cramping, pain, or numbness in your feet.

Dr. Askari and Dr. Rainwater can be reached at 602-954-0777.

Grab a kilt and head to the Scottish Games

GETOUT STAFF

For 57 years, thousands of Arizonan Scotsmen and women have gathered in the metro area to celebrate their culture and heritage. They’ll be doing it again next week when the Phoenix Scottish Games are presented by Caledonian Society of Arizona at Gilbert Regional Park, 3005 E. Queen Creek Road, Gilbert. The games, which were moved to Gilbert Regional Park from Phoenix’s Steele Indian School Park, begin at 5 p.m. Friday, March 3, and run through Sunday, March 5.

You don’t have to be Scottish to join the fun – and if you’re not sure of your roots, there are genealogists on site who can help trace them.

The weekend opens Friday evening with a colorful and stirring presentation called the Phoenix International Tattoo, a dazzling display of music and marches that echo the pageantry of the Scotland’s famed pipe band competitions.

This year, 28 members of the Isle of Skye Pipe Band from the city of Portree are flying into perform – some leaving their homes to travel abroad for the first time in their lives.

They will join an international cast of over 100 performers who include MarineSandpiper, Southern California’s only rock and roll bagpiper, and Craic in the Stone, who update traditional Scottish music with the sounds of the Pogues, Led Zeppelin, the Beatles and other contemporary groups.

That performance will be followed by the ore traditional military tattoo, featuring performers from the United States, Canada and Scotland.

Aklso participating in both Friday even shows are the Alma College Kiltie Dancers, Arizona Academy of Highland Dance, Jason Cartmell’s Rock-

strocity and the Mesa Caledonian Pipe Band.

One of the most notable guests at the tattoo will be Alex Aghajanian, president of the Tournament of Roses Parade. His visit kicks off the Pipes on Parade project that will perform in the 2024 parade featuring many pipers and drummers from Arizona.

“This will be the largest pipe band in the history of the parade and already represents 12 countries,” said spokesman Darryl Toupkin.

Another guest is the Earl of Caith-

see SCOTTISH page 27

Italian Association celebrates heritage with festival

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI GetOut Editor

Six men dreamed of bringing a piece of Italy to the desert, so the country would be represented in the best light.

Thus, the Scottsdale-based nonprofit Italian Association of Arizona was born.

“The founders wanted to find a way to bring Italians and those of Italian heritage together in one place to share pieces of their culture that fade away with every generation,” said Francesco Guzzo, executive director and Gilbert resident.

“The founders wanted to find a way to share that culture with those who appreciate what Italians and Italy has to offer. As much as we all love and enjoy true Italian cooking, Italy represents so much more than the food.”

The art, music, culture and traditions will be honored during the eighth annual Italian Festival at Heritage Square in Phoenix on Saturday, March 4, and

Sunday, March 5. The following weekend, Saturday, March 11, and Sunday, March 12, Sun City will host the first Italian Festival at the Sundial Recreation Center.

“We started with a small event along the Southbridge in Old Town Scottsdale in 2014 with a few vendors and lot of enthusiasm,” Guzzo said.

“Eight festivals later, we are hitting attendance capacity and keeping Italian traditions alive.”

The Italian Festival has a variety of live entertainment during the weekend including opera singers, The Sicilian Band, accordion player Cory Pesaturo, and traditional flag wavers from the Piemonte region.

“The flag wavers are finally able to come back after being gone since 2019,” Guzzo said.

“Fifteen or 16 flag wavers are flying in to perform throughout the festival. That’s a big deal for us. Everybody loves

The famous flag wavers, Sbandieratori from Asti, will appear at the Italian Festivals in Phoenix and Sun City. (Courtesy of the Italian Association of Arizona)

SCOTTISH from page 26

ness, Malcolm Ian Sinclair, who is visiting from Scotland to preside over the Clan Sinclair family gathering at the games.

Performances run Friday from 7-8:45 p.m. but gates will open at 5 p.m. so guests can enjoy other entertainment and food.

Once the games themselves kick into high gear Saturday, there will be plenty of eye-popping action for young and old alike.

Men and women will be testing their strength in games like the Caber Toss, Sheaf Toss, Scottish Hammer Throw and Stone Put as well as wrestling.

Don’t like athletic competitions? No worries.

Also on the card all weekend is music, dancing and storytelling as 35 clans gather in small camps throughout the park to celebrate family reunions.

Entertainment includes the International Bagpipe Competition with at least six pipe bands, the Highland Dancing Competition and music by groups that include the Noble McCoy Band, Stoneybank, the Alma College Kiltie Highland Dancers and Jason Cartmell’s Rockstrocity.

Mary, Queen of Scots will be attend-

ing with her court and Toupkin said attendees can expect to see spontaneous parades thoughout the weekend.

Food will include meat pies and what Toupkin promises to be “the best fish n’ chips in the Valley.”

Thirsty attendees can check out the Locheil and Guinness beer gardens and whiskey and wine tasting booths. There will even be a cigar lounge on the premises.

Christopher Yate, an acrobat and stilt walker, will be entertaining and a British vintage car show will be offered.

Kilts and other Scottish apparel will be offered by some of the scores of vendors on the premises and there also will be plenty of kid-friendly activities such as a “fishing pond,” archery lessons, costumes, arts and crafts and others.

The event also is pet friendly and people are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket to enjoy the entertainment.

Proceeds from the games support scholarships for Highland athletes and entertainers and other activities of the Caledonian Society of Arizona, the largest Celtic organization in the state. For information and tickets: phoenixscottishgames.com.

Sime of the 28 members of the Isle of Skye Pipe Band from the city of Portree in Scotland are leaving home for the first time to perform in the Friday opening of the Phoenix Scottish Games at Gilbert Regional Park. (Special to GetOut)

FESTIVAL from page 26

the flag wavers. Since COVID, they’ve been locked down and Italy was never back to normal the way it was here.”

The event will provide authentic cuisine such as fresh biscottis, gelato, espresso, pasta and pizza. A few local vendors include L’Impasto, Little Italy of Scottsdale, Pasta Rea, My Daddy’s Italian Bakery and Pomo Pizzeria.

Non-food vendors will sell jewelry, handmade Italian leather purses and other items. Plus, children can enjoy face painting and balloon makers in the Kids Fun Zone.

The Italian Festival in Phoenix is sponsored by Peroni, DTPHX, Galbani, Queen Creek Olive Mill, Anderson Windows, PepsiCo and Desert Rose Transportation. The VIP Experience is thanks to Campari & Aperol.

Guzzo called La Cucina Galbani Cooking Stage a highlight.

“No one would have thought there would be such a solid Italian community in the desert and yet, here we are,”

he said.

“It’s a little dispersed, but our voice can be heard and now we can finally be seen. Historically speaking, the first known Italian to come through Arizona was Father Kino back in the late 1600s and built missions that still stand today.”

In 1691, Father Eusebio Kino made the first of about 40 expeditions into Arizona.

Now there’s a new generation of Italians making their mark in Arizona, he said. They range from Jerry Colangelo, businessman and sports executive, to chef Joey Maggiore who owns several local and national Italian and concept restaurants and is keeping his father’s (Tomaso Maggiore) legacy alive.

A repeat visitor to the festival is Margherita Fray of Scottsdale. The 96-yearold is the last living known partisan and an artist.

“There’s something unique and special about that lady,” Guzzo said. “I love that lady to death. We’re happy to support her and give her an opportunity to showcase

her artwork. It’s just beautiful.”

Entrenched in the arts, she also penned a book called “Marisa’s Courage.” She was raised in an anti-fascist family in Italy, where they were witness to bombings and executions by homegrown and foreign aggressors.

She became a member of the Resistenza as a partisan, belonging to a group called the Garibaldi Brigade around her home city of Turin and participated in dangerous missions to support the fighters in the underground for several years.

Fray is still emotionally distraught over memories of this time. In 1947 she came to America as a war bride, marrying a man she had briefly met a year earlier. She endured the marriage to a “deeply flawed” man and moved to Scottsdale in 2000.

“There are still wars today and lives are still being lost,” she said through her daughter, Angela Fray. “The war in Ukraine has really affected me and brought back many memories. Countries don’t fight wars. The leaders of

countries fight wars.”

Fray said she enjoys meeting people at the festival and sharing her story in person.

“I am amazed that there is still so much interest in World War II,” she added. At the festival, she enjoys “the food and meeting vendors and seeing people enjoy themselves. The Italian Association does a great job.

“Italy has ancient history and art. I am really proud of being Italian. I am from a beautiful city and the former capital of Italy.”

If You Go...

Italian Festival

When: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, March 4, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 5

Where: Heritage Square, 115 N. Sixth Street, Phoenix Cost: $10 in advance, and $20 day of. VIP experiences available Info: italianassociation.org

$0 or

Benefits vary by plan. ‘Ohana Health Plan, a plan offered by Wellcare Health Insurance of Arizona, Inc. Wellcare is the Medicare brand for Centene Corporation, an HMO, PPO, PFFS, PDP plan with a Medicare contract and is an approved Part D Sponsor. Our D-SNP plans have a contract with the state Medicaid program. Enrollment in our plans depends on contract renewal. Washington residents: Health Net Life Insurance Company is contracted with Medicare for PPO plans. “Wellcare by Health Net” is issued by Health Net Life Insurance Company. Washington residents: “Wellcare” is issued by Wellcare of Washington, Inc. Washington residents: “Wellcare” is issued by Wellcare Health Insurance Company of Washington, Inc. Wellcare by Allwell (HMO and HMO SNP) includes products that are underwritten by Superior HealthPlan, Inc. and Superior HealthPlan Community Solutions, Inc. Wellcare (HMO and HMO SNP) includes products that are underwritten by Wellcare of Texas, Inc., Wellcare National Health Insurance Company, and SelectCare of Texas, Inc. Cosmetic procedures are not covered under this benefit.

NA3WCMADV90544E_LINE Y0020_WCM_90544E1_M

©Wellcare 2022

With JAN D’ATRI GetOut

Contributor

Zucchini balls a gem of a Greek street fest food

We are right in the middle of Greek carnival season known as apokries. Greek street foods are, of course, a big part of the celebrations.

So this week I wanted to feature one of my favorite Greek appetizers, Kolokithokeftedes. Ok, that may seem Greek to you, but really, they are just delicious deep-fried zucchini balls paired here with a fantastic dipping sauce, and pronouncing the word correctly is not part of the recipe, so don’t worry about a thing!

(For the record, it’s pronounced Kolo-Keetho- Kef-ted-es.) You’ll love the crunch and the fabulous flavor combination

Ingredients:

Dipping sauce

2 TBSP olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

5 fresh tomatoes, diced

2 TBSP fresh basil finely chopped

3 TBSP honey

1 tsp salt

1 tsp ground black pepper

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

2 TBSP parsley, chopped fine Zucchini balls

3 TBSP butter

1 TBSP olive oil

1 tsp white truffle oil

1 small onion, chopped fine

1 large clove garlic, pressed or minced

3 large zucchini, grated and wrung out to drain liquid

2 large eggs

1/3 cup Parmesan cheese

1/3 cup mozzarella, shredded

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1 TBSP lemon zest

1 tsp salt

1 tsp pepper

2 cups vegetable oil for frying

Directions:

1. In a bowl, place the toasted bread and cover with milk to soak. When bread is soft, squeeze the liquid out completely and discard remaining milk. Transfer bread to a large mixing bowl.

of zucchini, cheese, onion, garlic and a hint of white truffle oil, made even more delicious by dipping them in a zesty red sauce.

There’s only one more thing to say about this delightful Mediterranean treat, “Nostimótatos!” ( Delicious!)

2.. In a medium skillet over medium high heat, add butter, onions and garlic. Sauté until soft and caramelized, about 8 minutes. Set aside to cool.

3. Make the dipping sauce. Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes.

4. Stir in tomatoes and simmer uncovered, until tomatoes have mostly broken down, about 25 minutes. Stir often to prevent burning.

5. Stir in basil, honey, salt, pepper, and parsley. Continue simmering for about 10 minutes.

6. Puree it in a food processor/blender. Place in a serving bowl and set aside.

7. Make the zucchini balls. In a small pan over medium high heat, sauté butter, olive oil, white truffle oil, onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent and onions begin to caramelize. Remove from heat to cool down.

8. Grate zucchini. Place in a cheese cloth and wring out as much water as possible.

9. In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, eggs, mozzarella, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, 1 TBSP of lemon zest, salt, black pepper and cooled sautéed onion mixture. Mix well to fully incorporate.

9. In a medium saucepot, add 2 cups of vegetable oil. Heat oil to 365 degrees.

10. Form the zucchini mixture into 1 inch balls, by rolling the zucchini mixture in the palm of your hands.

11. Add several balls into the hot oil and fry for about one minute on each side, cooking until deep golden brown.

12. Drain zucchini balls on a paper towel lined baking sheet and immediately sprinkle with salt Makes 16 zucchini balls.

• General Laborer

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CMC Steel Arizona has proudly been making the steel that builds America since 2009.

We are hiring immediately for all skilled operator positions to be part of building our new, state of the art micro mill from the ground up!

At CMC, we offer great benefits and provide all necessary training and certifications.

CLASSIFIEDS.PHOENIX.ORG

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice to Creditors

Estate of JOANNE VASQUEZ, deceased 11/22/2022

Maricopa County, Arizona Case No. PB-2023-00

0281

All persons who have claims against the above named Estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative on or before 5/25/2023.

Personal Representative:

Heather Lalley

6540 S. Agate Way

Chandler, AZ 85249

Published in East Valley Tribune Feb 26, Mar 5, 12, 2023

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In the Matter of the

Estate of Daniel Dean Richard

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Thomas Arndt has been appointed as the Personal Representative of this estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or the claims will be forever barred. Claims must be presented by delivering or mailing a written statement of the claim to Thomas Arndt, Personal Representative of Daniel Dean Richard, 2606 N Yucca ST, Chandler, AZ 85224

Published in East Valley Tribune Feb 19, 26, Mar 5, 2023

In accordance with Sec. 106 of the Programmatic Agreement, AT&T plans a NEW 85' MONOPALM AND ANTENNAS at 5910 E. MCDOWELL ROAD MESA, AZ 85215. Please direct comments to Gavin L. at 818-898-4866 regarding site AZL01762. 2/19, 2/26/23 CNS-3669740# EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE

Published in East Valley Tribune Feb 19, 26, 2023

STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA COUNTY OF BROWN CIRCUIT COURT FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOY DENISE WIEDEBUSH

Deceased, 06PRO23-000007

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE OF INFORMAL PROBATE AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

Notice is hereby given that on February 1, 2023, Kent Steven Marquardt, whose address is 2314 Crystal Avenue SE, Aberdeen, SD 57401, was appointed as Personal Representative of the estate of JOY DENISE WIEDEBUSH.

Creditors of decedent must file their claims within

four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or their claims may be barred.

Claims may be filed with the Personal Representa tive or may be filed with the Clerk of Courts and a copy of the claim mailed to the Personal Representa tive.

Dated this 6th day of February, 2023.

Kent Steven Marquardt 2314 Crystal Avenue SE Aberdeen, SD 57401 605-377-3052

Marla Zastrow Brown County Clerk of Courts 100 1st Avenue SE Aberdeen, SD 57401 (605) 626-2451

Christopher A. Haar Attorney at Law PO Box 1181 Aberdeen, SD 57402 605-228-7552

chrishaarlaw@gmail.com

Published in East Valley Tribune Feb 19, 26, Mar 5, 2023

Arizona Department of Real Estate (ADRE) Real Estate Recovery Fund www.azre.gov

Judgment Debtor Notice (RF-109) 100 N. 15th Ave., Suite 201 PHOENIX, Al 85007

TO: (Print names of all Judgment Debtors)

1) JENNIFER MOUNTJOY-ZWISLER

2) PRIME TIME PROPERTIES MANAGEMENT and REAL ESTATE INC. ADB as Prime Time Properties Inc.

Based on a judgment against you in favor of 1) RAILCASTLE LLC 2) RAM RIVER LLC being made to the Arizona Department of Real Estate for payment from the Real Estate Recovery Fund. If payment is made from the Recovery Fund, all licenses and license rights that you have under Arizona real estate law will be automatically terminated on the date of payment and may only be reinstated pursuant to A.R.S. § 32-213l(A)(3), on a showing that:

1. The Recovery Fund has been reimbursed for the amount paid plus interest at the current legal rate;

2. The underlying judgment has been fully satisfied; and

3. You have filed an original application for a license. If you wish to contest payment from the Recovery Fund, you must file a detailed written response to Applications. The Real Estate Commissioner must receive your response at the address below within 35 calendar days after the date this notice is mailed, delivered or first published. You must also send a copy of the response to the Claimant at the address below. If you fail to respond as required, you waive your

State of Connecticut

Court of Probate, Stratford Probate Court

District No. PD47

NOTICE TO TYLER KELLETT

Pursuant to an order of Hon. Max L. Rosenberg, Judge, a hearing will be held at Stratford Probate Court, 468 Birdseye Street, 2nd Floor, Stratford, CT 06615 on March 14, 2023 at 9:30 AM, on a petition for Termination of Parental Rights concerning G.H., a minor child born on December 27, 2016 at Derby, CT. The court's decision will affect your interest, if any, as in the petition on file more fully appears.

RIGHT TO COUNSEL: If the above named person wishes to have an attorney, but is unable to pay for one, the Court will provide an attorney upon proof of inability to pay. Any such request should be made immediately by contacting the court office at 203-385-4023 where the hearing is to be held.

By Order of the Court Sharon Zimmerman, Clerk

Published in East Valley Tribune Feb 26, 2023

The Mesa City Council will hold a public hearing concerning the following ordinances at the March 6, 2023, City Council meeting beginning at 5:45 p.m. in the Mesa City Council Chambers, 57 East First Street.

1. ZON22-01024 “Lemon Lane” (District 2)

Within the 3700 to 3800 blocks of East McLellan Road (south side). Located south of McLellan Road and east of Val Vista Drive (10± acres). Rezone from Single Residence-35 with a Planned Area Development overlay (RS35 PAD) to Single Residence-35 with a new Planned Area Development overlay (RS-35 PAD). This request will allow for a seven-lot single-residence development with increased maximum fence height and private roads. Jared Cox, applicant; Forever 7 LLC, owner.

Dated at Mesa, Arizona, this 26th day of February 2023.

Holly Moseley, City

Clerk

Published in the Mesa Tribune, Feb 26, 2023

CITY OF MESA, ARIZONA ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Mesa is seeking a qualified Consultant for the following: McKELLIPS ROAD RELIEF SEWER PROJECT NO. CP0619NS12

The City of Mesa is seeking a qualified Consultant to provide design services for the McKellips Road Relief Sewer Project. All qualified firms that are interested in providing these services are invited to submit their Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) in accordance with the requirements detailed in the Request for Qualifications (RFQ).

The following is a summary of the project. This project scope includes design and hydraulic analysis of relief sewer. The sewer will begin at the intersection of McKellips Road and Gilbert Road and extend to an existing manhole at the intersection of Stapley Drive and Brown Road. In addition, the project will include the design of a smaller relief sewer extension down Harris Drive, that will connect to the new relief sewer on McKellips Road. Additionally, the project includes the replacement of an existing manhole located in the intersection of McKellips Road and Gilbert Road with a new sewer diversion structure and other associated work. Please note that the project will take place on arterial streets with multiple utilities and other active CIP projects. The consultant will need to locate and coordinate multiple non-city and city utilities, including expanding fiber lines. Utility relocation is likely and should be anticipated.

Project Deliverables Include but are not Limited to: Hydraulic Analysis Report, Preliminary Layout, 30%, 60%, 90%, and Final Sealed Construction Documents, Technical Specifications, Utility Conflict Resolution Matrix, Project Cost Estimates, Construction Services (Submittal Review, RFI Response, etc.). The required tasks will be reviewed with the selected Design Consultant and defined to meet the needs of the project as part of the contract scoping.

A Pre-Submittal Conference will be held on February 23, 2023 at 9:00 am via Microsoft Teams. At this meeting, City staff will discuss the scope of work, general contract requirements and respond to questions from the attendees. The video conference Pre-Submittal Conference is not mandatory, and all interested firms may submit a Statement of Qualifications whether or not they attend the conference. All interested firms are encouraged to attend the Pre-Submittal Conference since City staff will not be available for meetings or to respond to individual inquiries regarding the project scope outside of this conference. In addition, there will not be meeting minutes, or any other information published from the Pre-Submittal Conference.

Contact with City Employees. All firms interested in this project (including the firm’s employees, representatives, agents, lobbyists, attorneys, and subconsultants) will refrain, under penalty of disqualification, from direct or indirect contact for the purpose of influencing the selection or creating bias in the selection process with any person who may play a part in the selection process. This policy is intended to create a level playing field for all potential firms, to assure that contract decisions are made in public, and to protect the integrity of the selection process. All contact on this selection process should be addressed to the authorized representative identified below RFQ Lists. This RFQ is available on the City’s website at http://mesaaz.gov/business/engineering/architectural-engineering-design-opportunities.

The Statement of Qualifications shall include a one-page cover letter that contains current company/firm contact information including a valid phone number and email address, plus a maximum of 10 pages to address the SOQ evaluation criteria (excluding PPVF’s and resumes but including an organization chart with key personnel and their affiliation). Resumes for each team member shall be limited to a maximum length of two pages and should be attached as an appendix to the SOQ. Minimum font size shall be 10pt. Please provide one (1) electronic copy in an unencrypted PDF format to Engineering-RFQ@mesaaz.gov by 2:00 pm on March 9, 2023. The City reserves the right to accept or reject any and all Statements of Qualifications. The City is an equal opportunity employer.

Firms who wish to do business with the City of Mesa must be registered and activated in the City of Mesa Vendor Self Service (VSS) System (http://mesaaz.gov/business/purchasing/vendor-self-service).

Questions. Questions pertaining to the Consultant selection process or contract issues should be directed to Tracy Gumeringer of the Engineering Department at tracy.gumeringer@mesaaz.gov.

BETH HUNNING City Engineer

CITY OF MESA, ARIZONA ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Mesa is seeking a qualified Consultant for the following:

PECOS AND SOSSAMAN ROAD COMBINED MATERIALS RECYCLING FACILITY AND TRANSFER STATION PROJECT NO. CP1146

The City of Mesa is seeking a qualified Consultant to provide design services for the Joint Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) and Transfer Station Project. All qualified firms that are interested in providing these services are invited to submit their Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) in accordance with the requirements detailed in the Request for Qualifications (RFQ).

The following is a summary of the project. The required tasks will be reviewed with the selected Design Consultant and defined to meet the needs of the project as part of the contract scoping. The City of Mesa and Town of Gilbert are proposing a joint MRF located at the northwest corner of Sossaman Road and Pecos Road. The selected consultant will review the prior study, analysis, and reporting information from the City of Mesa and Town of Gilbert. This review should consider the shared goals of the agencies as well as future growth and programming. Based on these reviews and discussions with both agencies, the consultant will prepare preliminary drawings, cost estimates, etc. to further define the proposed facility.

A Pre-Submittal Conference will be held on February 23, 2023 at 1:00 pm via Microsoft Teams. At this meeting, City staff will discuss the scope of work and general contract issues and respond to questions from the attendees. Attendance at the pre-submittal conference is not mandatory and all interested firms may submit a Statement of Qualifications whether or not they attend the conference. All interested firms are encouraged to attend the Pre-Submittal Conference since City staff will not be available for meetings or to respond to individual inquiries regarding the project scope outside of this conference. In addition, there will not be meeting minutes or any other information published from the Pre-Submittal Conference.

Contact with City Employees. All firms interested in this project (including the firm’s employees, representatives, agents, lobbyists, attorneys, and subconsultants) will refrain, under penalty of disqualification, from direct or indirect contact for the purpose of influencing the selection or creating bias in the selection process with any person who may play a part in the selection process. This policy is intended to create a level playing field for all potential firms, to assure that contract decisions are made in public, and to protect the integrity of the selection process. All contact on this selection process should be addressed to the authorized representative identified below RFQ Lists. This RFQ is available on the City’s website at http://mesaaz.gov/business/engineering/architectural-engineering-design-opportunities.

The Statement of Qualifications shall include a one-page cover letter, plus a maximum of 10 pages to address the SOQ evaluation criteria (excluding resumes but including an organization chart with key personnel and their affiliation). Resumes for each team member shall be limited to a maximum length of two pages and should be attached as an appendix to the SOQ. Minimum font size shall be 10pt. Please provide one (1) electronic copy in an unencrypted PDF format to Entingeering-RFQ@mesaaz.gov by March 9, 2023 at 2:00 pm. The City reserves the right to accept or reject any and all Statements of Qualifications. The City is an equal opportunity employer.

Firms who wish to do business with the City of Mesa must be registered and activated in the City of Mesa Vendor Self Service (VSS) System (http://mesaaz.gov/business/purchasing/vendor-self-service).

Questions. Questions pertaining to the Consultant selection process or contract issues should be directed to Tracy Gumeringer of the Engineering Department at tracy.gumeringer@mesaaz.gov.

BETH HUNING City Engineer

ATTEST: Holly Moseley City Clerk

Published in the Mesa Tribune, Feb 19, 26, 2023

ATTEST:

Holly Moseley

City Clerk

Published in the Mesa Tribune, Feb 19, 26, 2023

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