The Mesa Tribune - Zone 1 - 01.17.2021

Cookie time back / P. 6

Mesa marks MLK Day / P. 3

An edition of the East Valley Tribune

INSIDE

This Week

NEWS ........................... 6 Mesa teen saluted at Luke AFB.

COMMUNITY ......... 13 Mesa mom promotes late son's novels.

BUSINESS ............... 14 Mesa micro-school sets up shop.

COMMUNITY ............................... 13 BUSINESS ..................................... 14 OPINION ....................................... 16 SPORTS ........................................ 17 GET OUT ....................................... 18 PUZZLES ...................................... 19 CLASSIFIED ................................. 19 Zone 1

FREE ($1 OUTSIDE THE EAST VALLEY) | TheMesaTribune.com

Sunday, January 17, 2021

Massive 400-acre Game on project unfolding at Gateway Airport

BY JIM WALSH Tribune Staff Writer

T

he Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport’s conversion into an economic powerhouse as a major regional airport is coming into sharper focus.

The latest huge piece, a 400-acre of�ice-retail development that ultimately will include a new terminal – was unveiled last week to Mesa City Council and at a promotional meeting as of�icials began �leshing out plans for Gateway’s now vacant east side.

Although more details will emerge after a master developer is chosen near the end of 2021, conceptual plans for the sprawling Gateway East project include a combination of �irst-class of�ice development, upscale “corporate retail’’ shopping and restaurants and industrial facilities.

��� GATEWAY ���� 8

Angry student athletes protested outside the offices of the Arizona Interscholastic Association Jan. 12 to protest its earlier cancellation of winter school sports. But the AIA executive board reversed its decision later that day and gave the greenlight to winter sports, starting tomorrow, Jan. 18, under strict health guidelines that include masks. Story on Page 17. (Pablo Robles/Progress Staff Reporter)

Giles: priorities include anti-discrimination law

BY JIM WALSH Tribune Staff Writer

M

esa Mayor John Giles plans to revive a long-delayed effort to pass an antidiscrimination ordinance, saying he wants everyone to know that his city is a welcoming and inclusive community.

With Martin Luther King Day tomorrow, Jan. 18, and a rioter invading Congress for the �irst time with a confederate �lag, Giles listed

the anti-discrimination ordinance as one of his goals for this year as he begins his �inal four-year term as mayor.

“We all take great pride in our city being a diverse, inclusive and compassionate community,’’ Giles said. “I want us to be known as a welcoming city that respects the rights of all residents, visitors and businesses.”

The other priorities listed by Giles include the creation of a Mesa Education Commission to boost post-high school education, expand-

ing internet connectivity among Mesa households and reducing the city’s carbon footprint – partly through a revived recycling program.

“These are not luxuries. These are necessities,’’ Giles said. “No longer can Mesa be known as a tale of two cities. It’s critical we do not leave people and neighborhoods behind as we become a more prosperous and better educated community.’’

��� GILES ���� 9

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

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THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

NEWS

3

Mesa, region mark MLK Day in various ways TRIBUNE NEWS STAFF

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

Times Media Group: 1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway, Suite 219 Tempe, Arizona, 85282

CONTACT INFORMATION Main number: 480-898-6500 | Advertising: 480-898-5624 Circulation service: 480-898-5641

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M

artin Luther King Jr. Day commemorations tomorrow, Jan. 18, likely will be different, with many community service projects normally held that day either canceled or curtailed because of the need to maintain social distance.

But that doesn’t mean the day will be ignored in Mesa and the East Valley.

While Mesa is not hosting an in-person parade and festival due to the pandemic, it is holding “digital photo parade with three ways to get involved. This would have marked the 25th anniversary of the parade.

Past parade participants are being asked to solicit a photo. People can visit mesaaz.gov/mlkparade and take a picture with an online sel�ie card by answering the question “How am I (we) living the dream?”

Mesa, all other East Valley communities and the East Valley Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee are participating in a project with AZPBS’ Arizona Horizon, which will present on TV and azpbs.org at 5 p.m. tomorrow segments on past, present and future aspects of Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech.

Arizona State University professor Dr. Neal Lester will be a featured guest as it examines the speech’s content and historical context as well as King’s inspiration for writing it and its social impact on the Civil Rights movement.

It also will present people from three different generations describe how MLK and his speech has impacted their lives.

It also will explore changes within their communities that are helping to achieve racial equality.

“Our hope is through this program, we continue to celebrate the legacy of Dr. King and encourage all people to actively work towards achieving the promise of freedom and justice for all,” said Ebonye Delaney, Arizona PBS digital director and executive producer of the presentation.

In keeping with the pandemic’s restrictions, this year’s Regional Unity Walk has been revamped.

Instead of gathering at Temple Beach Park, residents are directed to a showcasing of cultural arts, a Visual Journey of Diversity, Culture and Equity, in Mesa

Among the works on an art walk that replaces this year's Unity Walk is this mural in the state Department of Economic Security office in Mesa. (Special to the Tribune) and throughout the East Valley.

“We wanted to be able to plan something that would be really just as meaningful and symbolic of a regional effort,” said Andrea Alicoate, diversity administrator for City of Mesa.

“More importantly, this is even more of an important time to celebrate the culture and equity among the different communities.”

The cities have created an arts map to highlight sculptures, murals and other art spots that are easily accessible outdoors. In addition, each city chose to highlight things that are special to their own communities, Alicoate said.

For example, Mesa has organized an art exhibition at the Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum.

With the arts, the idea is to encourage people to do a driving, biking or walking tour through the different cities, and pay attention to some of the cultural art or artists in each of the cities, said Niki Tapia, community resources and diversity supervisor for the City of Chandler.

“This is a way they can go for a drive with their family, go take some sel�ies, have some fun,” Tapia said. “Also, we’re trying to support businesses, restaurants run by people of color and we’re wanting to encourage people to go get some takeout and have a picnic.

The Unity Walk began 18 years ago to

celebrate King. Organizers stretched the celebration through Jan. 31 to give people more time to enjoy the art in various cities.

The Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum invited a guest curator, Clottee Hammons of Emancipation Arts, who organized a special pop-up titled “Human Contrasts” through Jan. 31.

Hammons used the “Dream” speech to show things King witnessed in society.

Curator Tiffany Fairall said that it’s a commentary on how, though we may seem dissimilar on the surface, we have commonalities and similar struggles.

Lester also is co-facilitator of a webcast 6-8 p.m. Monday on “The King We Don’t Know,” a 2018 NPR interview assessing the King’s legacy led by Dr. Charles McKinney, professor of history at Rhodes College in Memphis. People can register for it at projecthumanities.asu.edu/events.

Lester explained he orchestrated that webcast because “I decided that we could do something a little more critically productive” on a day commemorating the late civil rights leader.

“Service is �ine,” he said, but Lester felt some critical discussion on King and his seminal speeches like “I Have a Dream” would deepen people’s understanding of

��� KING ���� 7

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NEWS

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

Most Mesa students can return to classrooms fulltime

BY PAUL MARYNIAK Tribune Executive Editor

S

tudents at all but seven Mesa Public Schools campuses will be allowed to return to classrooms in some fashion starting Tuesday as COVID-19 cases continued to rise across the district.

But students at four elementary campuses, two junior high and one high school will be learning from home while students at four other high schools will be allowed on campus only two days a week, divided alphabetically into two groups.

Those decisions were made after what the district called a “complex process” involving “many data points, including patterns and stories behind each positive case.”

The district’s announcement Thursday followed the county health department’s release of data showing all three metrics measuring virus spread continued rising during the last week of December as holi-

day gatherings began taking their toll.

District-wide, the data showed, cases per 100,000 leaped from 520 to 867 while positive new test results jumped from 18.7 to 23.6 percent and the percentage of hospital visits with COVID-like symptoms ticked up to 14.5 percent. Those numbers were the highest yet since the school year began.

Individual Mesa ZIP code levels were generally in the same neighborhood, although 85202 registered a staggering 1,270 cases per 100,000 – one of the highest readings among all East Valley ZIP codes.

The district’s own dashboard of reported COVID-19 cases among its campuses, however, showed that out of 67,000 students and staff, there were 257 active cases – 152 students and 105 adults.

But it was where those cases were located that impacted the decisions on how students would learn, possibly for the rest of the month.

High schools accounted for 86 cases, al-

though the district does not break down students vs. adults, and they are being hit the hardest by the district’s campus-bycampus approach to determining the safest learning mode for kids.

Mountain View, whose 20 cases were the highest among all MPS campuses, will be in a fully virtual learning mode while four other high schools will be using the hybrid model because their active reported cases ranged between 14 and 17.

Only Skyline High students can be in classrooms �ive days a week; it reported only four cases.

Most junior high students will be able to be on campus �ive days a week except at Taylor and Kino, which reported eight and six cases, respectively. Those students will be in hybrid learning.

Four elementary schools – Adams, Edison, MacArthur and Red Mountain Ranch – are closed while students at all other elementary campuses can attend �ive days a week.

As the newly reconstituted Governing Board held its �irst meeting, it confronted the same challenge its predecessor faced most of last year: imploring the community to follow safety protocols like social distancing and wearing masks in order to have kids in classrooms.

“We need to see folks doing the mitigation strategies both in school and away from school in order to get this curve to go the other way,” Associate Superintendent Holly Williams told the board at the Jan. 12 meeting.

That meeting came the day after Gov. Doug Ducey, in his annual State of the State address, said he will not provide any additional cash to public schools with fewer children in classrooms due to the pandemic. Instead, the governor said he wants to get students “back where they belong.’’

“With every public health profession-

��� SCHOOLS ���� 8

Jenny Richardson elected MPS board president TRIBUNE NEWS STAFF

M

esa Public Schools Governing Board has a new president after members had to choose between two of their own.

In a 3-1 vote with one abstention, Jenny Richardson was elected to the post after she voted in her favor and was joined by newcomers Joe O’Reilly and Lara Salmon Ellingson. Marcie Hutchinson had nominated Kiana Maria Sears and cast the sole vote in her favor while Sears abstained.

The contest was unusual because most school boards – which are all electing presidents this month for a one-year term – rarely see two members up for election in public. Boards often rotate the post annually or a member will lobby for his or her colleagues’ support in one-on-one private sessions before any public meeting is held.

After they were nominated, both Sears and Richardson made brief appeals for their colleagues’ support.

“I love our neighborhood schools,” Richardson said after Ellingson nominated her. “I feel like big things are on the horizon for Mesa Public Schools. I feel like it’s a time of a lot of change and a lot of good direction.

JENNY RICHARDSON

KIANA MARIE SEARS

“We have some good things in place and I’d like the opportunity to help guide as we see it through, as we work on implementing the Portrait of The Graduate, as we work together to create the master plan that will guide our actions with our bonds and our �inancial dollars going forward.

I feel like our equity promise of knowing every student by name and serving them by strength and need is what guides our work and I am anxious for the opportunity

to help serve in any way I can.”

Richardson has been on the board since 2015 and is a product of Mesa schools as well as the mother of six children who all graduated from or are attending Mesa schools. She has a degree in education and was an elementary teacher for a while before deciding to become a stayat-home mom.

Sears, who last year won her second four-year term, started serving on the

board in 2017. A Mesa resident for 23 years, she is the mother of two Red Mountain grads who are now at Arizona State University. She has a master’s degree in public administration and has a lengthy history of community involvement.

In her pitch for president, Sears stressed what she has already learned about the district and education generally so far as a board member.

“I’m pretty transparent and always passionate about the things of the district that concerns our children, our classi�ied stuff as well as our certi�ied staff,” she said. “Holistically, I’m really passionate about doing right about all that’s involved in the system because we know it takes caring adults to actually help all children have the best future. Innovation and going forward with new ideas are really important.”

After the vote, Sears drew laughter when she said she wanted to make a concession speech, and told Richardson “I know that you’re dedicated and you dedicate your time and your great leadership and I’ve had the joy to serve with you and I’m just excited.”

Richardson succeeds Elaine Miner, who decided not to seek a fourth term on the board. 

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

5

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NEWS

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

Luke AFB makes Mesa teen honorary pilot

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Tribune Staff Writer

L

iam Marshall is obsessed with the Air Force, particularly its airplanes.

The autistic 13-year-old Mesa boy watches videos about the Air Force and plays �light simulator games on his tablet.

His seizure helmet is covered with patches given to him by pilots. His favorite movies are “Top Gun,” “Pearl Harbor,” “Midway” and “Air Force One.” “He watches these whole movies because he likes to see all the planes in them,” said his mother, Megan Marshall.

“He’s learning about history while he’s watching movies and seeing the different types of �ighter jets and planes.

“He goes through phases of things that he’s interested in and most of them are really dif�icult. This has been a really easy, fun one.”

So, when the Make-a-Wish Foundation loosened its rules for wishes, Megan inquired about doing something for Liam.

Recently, the Marshalls, along with Megan’s boyfriend, Dave Bashaw, visited Luke Air Force Base so the teen could be a pilot for a day. One of the sergeants, Sgt. Alex Kim, coordinated the efforts as she is a Make-a-Wish volunteer.

The family met the squadron in a briefing room and Lt. Col. Thomas Hayes, 61st Fighter Squadron commander, designated

Liam an honorary �ighter pilot for a day.

Liam was presented with a real �light suit tailored especially for him.

He also received a framed, autographed photo of the squadron, reserved for pilots who complete the program.

They then took the group to see two F-35 planes, one of which carried Liam’s name for a day.

“Liam got to inspect the plane and then they let us drive out Air Force Major Kirk "Bull" Chitwood works with young Liam Marshall on a closed run- at Luke AFB. (Special to the Tribune) way,” Megan said.

“Then, they let him get out and watch the tion, which causes low weight, small head size (microcephaly) and developmental plane take off.

“We had a pizza party, and the other pi- delay, especially in speech and language.

At 4 months old, he was diagnosed with lots came in to show us their G-suits and autism.

He’s also prone to seizures and their helmets. It was such a major day. He has cerebral palsy. literally wears his �light suit every single “The seizures have been the worst and day. I tell him, ‘You have to let me wash it.’” that’s been the hardest thing to deal with,” Liam was born with 16p11.2 duplica-

Megan said. “We’ve had emergency room visits in the past couple of months from him falling and hurting himself from the seizures.”

He attends Lauren’s Institute for Education in Gilbert via virtual learning to keep him safe.

“His seizures are triggered by startles, mostly,” Megan said. “So, when you’re in a roomful of kids and you’re getting bumped into, he’ll be having seizures all day long.

They’ve extended the virtual learning for medically complicated kids. He quali�ies for that.”

Because of the autism, Liam becomes easily obsessed, according to Megan. He has read up on streetlamps, �ire alarms and palm trees.

“I would buy him landscaping books and he could tell you the Latin name for this species or that species,” she said. “He watches a lot of videos on YouTube or documentaries. That’s what he does now with planes.”

Liam fell in love with them when a family friend invited him to see airplanes at Mesa Gateway Airport.

“It would be 110 degrees and we’d be out there standing, feeling and hearing the jet blast when the planes would turn,” Megan said.

“But he loved meeting the pilots and that’s been his thing all summer and it’s still going strong.” 

eCommerce to Girl Scouts, through building their cookie website and managing their virtual sales,” said Woodbury.

Local Girl Scout troops will also be coordinating drive-thru booths with cashless transactions. The drive-thru booths will be in parking lots that allow for space for the girls and their parents.

Cars will have the chance to pull to the front of the line, make their orders (masks required to make an order) and have the contactless or near contactless ability to pick up their cookies as they would from a traditional booth. Parents will be stationed at booths with sanitizing products to help the girls ensure maximum safety and monitor cookie transfer to cars.

“The girls will not only be selling at

these locations but helping market them via signage and other promotions, enabling the girls to �lex their creative and communication muscles in a new way,” said Woodbury.

Girl Scouts and Homie, a real estate brokerage, have partnered to build a “castle” made of Girl Scout Cookie boxes. People can tour the 13-foot by 13-foot by 9-foot castle every Sunday in February at The Shops at Norterra, 2450 W. Happy Valley Road, Phoenix.

Girls will be setting up a temporary “shop” in front of local businesses providing socially distanced options for customers to purchase cookies. Booth

EV Girl Scout Cookie sales start this week TRIBUNE NEWS STAFF

T

he Girl Scout Cookie season in the East Valley will start tomorrow, Jan. 18, and continue through Feb. 28, helping local troops raise funds for various activities.

The lineup includes Lemon-Ups, Thin Mints, Tagalongs, Samoas, Trefoils Do-sidos for $5 a box and Girl Scout S’mores and gluten-free Toffee-tastics for $6.

“Given COVID-19, GSACPC has developed new and different scenarios and ways for girls to sell cookies safely,” said Tamara Woodbury, CEO of GSACPC. “We are extremely proud to be able to offer our girls both a sense of normalcy in a nearyear that has been anything but normal,

and a means to help girls grow their entrepreneurial, public speaking, �inancial and other skills through this modi�ied take on our cookie program.”

A Digital Cookie app enables girls to take pre-orders from previous customers, friends and family online. Through this digital selling platform, girls build a custom website and then they invite friends and family they know to purchase cookies via email marketing, with the option of having cookies delivered via contactless pick-up and drop-off or shipped directly to their home. Girls can also use the Digital Cookie Mobile App to accept credit card payment from customers on-the-go.

“Digital Cookie introduces lessons about online marketing, application use, and

��� COOKIES ���� 7

NEWS

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

KING ���� ���� 3

King’s beliefs and mission.

Since George Floyd’s murder by Minneapolis police last May, Lester said, people have been “pulling out King quotes and I’m always kind of amazed at the way in which we want to romanticize King and see him as being sort of ‘We Are the World or “Let’s Sing the Coke Song.’”

Lester said that in the “Dream” speech and 1967 “The Other America” speech, King “calls out police brutality, where he calls out injustices and where he talks very speci�ically about a divided America, the haves and the have nots.”

Details are at projecthumanities.asu. edu.

For a complete list of MLK Day activities: mesaaz.gov/government/diversity-of�ice/regional-unity-artwalk.

For an interactive map of the Regional Unity Art Walk, visit storymaps. arcgis.com/stories/06a7d7600b1747 f7a80d7bc248d7c89c 

COOKIES ���� ���� 6

locations this year include longtime supporters Fry’s Food Stores, Bashas’ Family of Stores, Walmart, and other retailers and small businesses.

Last year, 25 of the Valley’s top business leaders and CEOs, including Diane Veres, Lisa Urias, and Ray Roberts, joined more than 100 local girls for the �irst Cookie Fast Pitch. GSACPC is bringing the event back in a virtual format this year Jan. 23.

Participating girls will make their cookie sales pitch to one of the local CEOs or corporate executives in attendance, then get feedback on their pitch and one-onone coaching sessions.

The girls will apply the strategies they’ve learned and give their best pitch to the mentors.

All attending CEO mentors plan to support the cookie bosses with a $500 cookie purchase.

Given COVID-19, the beloved Girl Scout Cookie Dessert Challenge will not be held this year.

“We know our Arizona restaurant com-

munity has been impacted during the pandemic and wish them well. We are grateful for their partnership and support and look forward to returning to the Dessert Challenge in 2022,” said Woodbury.

Customers can �ind cookies nearest them at girlscoutsaz.org/cookie�inder.

On Feb. 1, GSUSA will release a national cookie link where customers nationwide can purchase cookies directly from local troops by entering their zip code. Cookie orders placed from this direct-ship troop link will be shipped directly to the cus-

GOT NEWS? Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@timespublications.com NOW ENROLLING FOR THE 2021-2022 SCHOOL YEAR! PURPOSE

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7

tomer and cookie proceeds will go directly to that troop.

All sale proceeds fund local Girl Scouts’ Take Action projects for the community and girl-led adventures for troops.

The Fund High Award projects that impact the community, like hosting a camp for youth, donating to those in need and improving community parks. In 2020, many Girl Scouts sewed (Facebook) masks and made care packages to donate to essential workers, including physicians and hospital staff, grocery store staff and �irst responders.

Proceeds also help GSACPC provide Girl Scout programs in STEM, the outdoors, life skills, entrepreneurship, camps, and leadership training, to all girls regardless of �inancial situation and go toward maintaining four local camp properties.

The council said there are two commercial bakers licensed by Girl Scouts of the USA to produce Girl Scout Cookies.

The bakery for GSACPC is Little Brownie Bakers. 

8

NEWS

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

GATEWAY ���� ���� 1

It also would bring long-needed retail and entertainment options for Eastmark and other homeowners in southeast Mesa.

A video released to promote the project shows Gateway East forming a semi-circle around a new terminal. Together, they will reorient the airport to facing east toward the new State Route 24 freeway that is slowly being built.

While Gateway East will provide more employment, entertainment and economic opportunities near the Loop 202 and the new State Route 24, a new terminal at the northwest corner of Ray and Hawes roads eventually would serve major new passenger airlines attracted by the addition of a new control tower now under construction.

Gateway CEO/Executive Director J. Brian O’Neill, said the new terminal might not open for another 10 years, realizing the dream that leaders from Mesa, Gilbert, Phoenix, Queen Creek, Apache Junction and the Gila River Indian Community began envisioning in March 1994 when they took over the facility after the U.S. Air Force decommissioned it a year earlier.

O’Neill said the airport has reserved 200 acres for the new terminal and parking. The airport’s assets include three, 10,000-foot-long runaways originally built by the Air Force and improved over time.

Shea Joachim, the airport’s business development, said the site might also include a hotel and convention center.

“We are de�initely looking to expand the roster of airlines that serves the airport,’’ O’Neill said during a Zoom meeting intended to attract potential master developers.

SCHOOLS ���� ���� 4

al, from Dr. Fauci and the CDC on down, saying that the safest place for kids to be is in schools, we will not be funding empty seats or allowing schools to remain in a perpetual state of closure,’’ he said. “Children still need to learn, even in a pandemic.’’

After the speech, press aide C.J. Karamargin said his boss is not considering cutting off funds to schools that instruct students either in whole or in part online.

He said Ducey supports virtual options for parents who want them.

“When he references not funding ‘empty seats,’ he simply means that for parents

This rendering shows where the cluster of retail and office buildings would be located on the eastern part of Gateway Airport property. It forms a semicircle around a new terminal, though a new terminal is as much as 10 years down the road. (Courtesy of Gateway Airport) He said negotiations are underway with some potential passenger carriers that would establish expanded service to hubs around the country, linking travelers to a myriad of destinations.

“We think it would be a game changer for East Valley,’’ O’Neill said.

He said the present terminal on the airport’s west side still has additional gates available, with budget-oriented Allegiant Airlines serving as the primary carrier. WestJet and Swoop serve the Canadian market.

Additional demand from airlines would be required to justify the construction of the new terminal, with the present terminal likely re-purposed for general aviation, O’Neill said.

Gateway’s passenger service at the moment is focused on leisure travelers using non-stop �lights to visit friends, family and

who have chosen a new option for their kids, the money will follow that student to their new public school,’’ Karamargin said, options that include other traditional districts as well as charter schools.

Although there was no mention of Ducey’s address at the board meeting, the impact of campus closures has already hit the district. The district lost more than $20 million in per pupil reimbursement from the state because of a yet undisclosed enrollment loss. Earlier estimates in the fall put that loss at more than 3,500 students.

Administration of�icials told the board last month that the district could lose more money, forcing it to consider program and

vacation destinations, he said.

“It’s nice to see these pieces that were in the sky as priorities 25 years ago come into reality,’’ Mesa Mayor John Giles said.

“I think it’s going to be a quality-of-life enhancement for all the people living out there.’’

“When the terminal is built on the east side, it will be a red-letter day,’’ Giles said, adding that two or three additional carriers are needed to realize that dream. “It’s setting the stage for that.’’

In the nearer term, “the quality of life of residents out there will take a giant step forward’’ when Gateway East opens, providing the dining and shopping residents have been craving and the city with much-needed additional sales tax revenue, Giles said.

He said that many people who live in Eastmark and other residential develop-

payroll cuts to balance its budget.

Williams said the administration is surveying teachers to �ind out, among other things, how many have signed up for COVID-19 vaccinations since teachers are now in a high-priority category for getting the shots.

The impact of the pandemic’s disruption of student’s school routines and social lives was brought home during a presentation on social-emotional health by Dr. Michael Garcia, director of opportunity and achievement.

New board member Lara Salmon Ellingson told him that she had received an email from “a student who is very upset about virtual school and mentioned that

ments in East Mesa would love to have an of�ice near their home, rather than driving an hour to get to work.

“It’s a perfect piece of the puzzle,’’ said Mesa Councilman Kevin Thompson, who represents the area. “This is very important not only for the airport but for District 6 and the city as well. It’s going to be a huge generator of revenue. It will help make Gateway a destination location.’’

Prior to marketing Gateway East, the airport has attracted numerous aeronautical developments to the west side of the airport, with 500,000 square feet of space currently under construction, O’Neill said.

SkyBridge, the highest pro�ile of these projects, features a unique customs relationship between the U.S. and Mexico that is intended to speed and simplify shipments of goods between the two countries.

The airport generated 1.8 million passengers last year, but ridership is down about 30 percent – far less of a decline than many other airports that have experienced up to an 80 percent drop during the pandemic, O’Neill said.

“This is an airport whose time has come,’’ O’Neill told the City Council. “The Phoenix East Valley is taking off, no pun intended, and the airport is going along with it.’’

With more people gradually getting vaccinated against COVID this year, “we’re really optimistic about the remainder of 2021,’’ O’Neill said.

Ryan Smith, an airport spokesman, said the new terminal likely would be built in three phases, starting with 10-14 gates.

O’Neill and Joachim emphasized that

��� GATEWAY ���� 10

he’s considered taking his life.”

“So I understand that he’s probably not alone and so what do we have in place right now and what can we suggest to our students or parents who are seeing this sign in their children or teachers who are seeing this sign?” Ellingson asked.

Garcia replied, “I would say the most important �irst step if they want help is to reach out to us, reach out to the school counselor, reach out to the district, our department even and we can talk to them and make sure that we can assess the situation and match them up with the most appropriate resources. We have lots of community resources.” 

NEWS

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

GILES ���� ���� 1

Giles immediately was applauded by those who have been working in Mesa for an anti-discrimination ordinance for years.

Former council members Dennis Kavanaugh and Pat Gilbert estimated the effort dates back about seven years, when the city’s Human Relations Commission voted to recommend that Council enact an ordinance.

“Finally,’’ Kavanaugh and Gilbert both said independently, when informed about Giles’ comments.

“I think it’s a very positive move,’’ Kavanaugh said. “It’s un�inished business.’’

Kavanaugh, a member of Visit Mesa’s board of directors, said that lack of a non-discrimination ordinance puts Mesa at a disadvantage when competing against other cities in hopes of attracting companies that are a source of goodpaying jobs.

“It’s much more than symbolic. It’s really important in terms of housing, employment and the marketplace,’’ he said.

Kavanaugh said he knows that Giles has supported such an ordinance for years.

He speculated that Giles may feel “liber-

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NEWS

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

Former COVID patients’ plasma sought

BY HARRY CROTON Cronkite News

A

s vaccinations for COVID-19 continue nationwide, blood donation agencies are stepping up efforts to encourage those who have had the disease and recovered to donate their plasma to help treat the sick.

January is National Blood Donor Month, a time when agencies typically work to recruit more donors as bad winter weather and seasonal illnesses reduce donations.

This year, the American Red Cross and other groups are heightening calls for donations of blood and plasma, the liquid portion of blood that contains antibodies that can �ight off infections.

The Food and Drug Administration has authorized convalescent plasma therapy for COVID-19 on an emergency basis.

Some studies show that plasma therapy may speed recovery time for COVID patients, but research is ongoing, and one study published in November in the New England Journal of Medicine found no signi�icant differences between those who received plasma and those who did not.

Vitalant of Scottsdale and other blooddonation organizations are collecting

GILES ���� ���� 9

Last year, Giles easily won reelection and a $100 million bond issue for highway improvements cruised to victory.

Gilbert said it’s important for Mesa to use every opportunity possible to show it supports civil rights.

“I think it’s exciting to hear from the mayor. It’s the kind of leadership he is capable of,’’ Gilbert said.

Angela Hughey, co-founder and president of One Community, which advocates for diversity, civil rights and the LGBTQ community, said talented young workers place a high value on living in communi-

GATEWAY ���� ���� 8

Gateway East is a non-aeronautical development, in contrast to the new terminal and aeronautical businesses on the west side.

A bond issue approved by Mesa voters last year lays the foundation for Gateway East, creating a Williams Field Road exit

Firefighters last fall gave plasma and blood in a special drive at the Hall of Flame Museum.

(Cronkite News)

blood that hospitals can administer.

“It’s an emergency need for more convalescent plasma donors, especially now as we’re seeing cases rising,” Vitalant spokeswoman Sue Thew said. “As people recover, that’s one way that they can give back in a way that nobody else can.”

Phoenix police Of�icer Santos Robles contracted COVID-19 in July and experienced life-threatening symptoms that twice put him in intensive care. He said

ties that respect civil rights and treat people equally.

“We’re just like everyone else. We want to be in a city and state that is welcoming,’’ Hughey, also a member of the Visit Mesa board, said. “It’s important to note that non-discrimination ordinances are about equal treatment, not special treatment.’’

Giles said he believes the timing is right for the ordinance because many issues surrounding it have already been litigated.

He believes the issue is less controversial than it was during his �irst term as mayor, when he replaced Alex Finter in 2014.

“I always had the intent to bring it back

off State Route 24 that will link up with the new development.

An exit at Ray Road and the Loop 202 will eventually funnel traf�ic to the new terminal, minimizing local traf�ic, Smith said.

Jack Sellers, chairman of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, said the extension of Proposition 400 would help supply the infrastructure needed to un-

he received �ive plasma transfusions and believes with each procedure, his health improved.

“It shortens the symptoms that you have,” Robles said. “The fevers start to kind of dissipate, and you start feeling a little bit better.”

Carlos Sanchez, director of public affairs in Hidalgo County, Texas, received a plasma transfusion after contracting COVID-19 this summer. He remembers

and let it mature a bit,’’ Giles said. “I am hoping that in 2021, it’s a less controversial issue.’’

He said there are strong social justice and business arguments for enacting a civil-rights ordinance, which would be applauded by companies considering Mesa, and business groups such as the Chamber of Commerce and Visit Mesa.

“I think we can protect religious freedom, while acknowledging the obvious truth that everyone is entitled to their civil rights,’’ Giles said.

He said his support for the ordinance pre-dated the riot at the Capitol and is not linked speci�ically to King Day, but those

lock the full potential of Gateway in the next decade.

Proposition 400, a ½ cent sale tax, expires in 2025 and discussions are underway to create the best new funding source possible, with fuel sales dropping from the advent of electric and hybrid cars, he said.

Maricopa County is committed to doing

feeling better but isn’t sure whether the bene�its were real or psychological.

“I don’t know that (the symptoms) disappeared magically, but in my mind (they) did,” Sanchez said. “I just felt a cool feeling. … Whether it had ancillary, physical help, I’ll never know.”

Clinical trials, including one overseen by researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, are continuing to determine whether plasma transfusions have real bene�its.

Dr. Marilyn Glassberg Csete, chief of pulmonary medicine at the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine, said more proof is still needed.

“They can’t say there is evidence unless there’s a randomized, double-blind, robustly constructed and conducted trial,” she said.

The donation itself takes about an hour, and donors must have been symptom-free for at least four weeks.

Robles recently donated blood in hope of paying it forward.

“Somebody wanted to help somebody when they donated the plasma that I got,” Robles said. “So therefore, if the plasma that I give helps somebody, that’s the goal – because it helped me.” 

are two good additional reasons to support it.

Council plans to discuss the ordinance and the other priorities listed by Giles at its annual retreat in February or March, he said.

John Goodie, a retired Mesa park ranger who worked tirelessly to establish Mesa’s Martin Luther King Day celebration, praised Giles for his timing in seeking an anti-discrimination ordinance.

“I’ve always thought of Mayor Giles as a fair man. He’s always had the right heart and the right mindset,’’ Goodie said. “I can’t think of a better time for Mesa and the country to be inclusive.’’ 

everything possible to assist in the airport’s evolution, Sellers said, as outdated county roads get replaced by much larger roads needed for growth.

“I just really try to stay in tune with the infrastructure that impacts our economic viability,’’ he said. “State Route 24 is already being built. That’s going to make a signi�icant difference.’’ 

NEWS

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

Legislature eyes election, emergency powers changes he 2021 legislative session is being brought to you by the letter E – as in emergency powers, election legislation and education funding.

The session got off to a quick start last week as one of the �irst act of lawmakers will be to determine whether it’s time to pull the plug on the state of emergency that Gov. Doug Ducey declared 10 months ago – an action, if it gets a majority vote, the governor cannot veto.

Sen. Michelle Ugenti-Rita, R-Scottsdale, already has the language crafted.

Her measure, SCR 1001, seeks to take advantage of a provision in the law that gave Ducey the power to unilaterally declare an emergency in the �irst place. It says the emergency ends when the governor says it does or when a majority of legislators vote to say it’s over.

But there is no clear law about whether the governor can simply turn around and declare a new one and reinstate all the provisions, such as what businesses can be open and under what conditions.

That possibility has Rep. John Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills, asking Attorney General Mark Brnovich whether that would require the legislature to have yet another vote to swat down the governor. And he wants to know whether that would automatically terminate any reinstated actions “or would a court have to issue an order?’’

Then there’s the question of whether lawmakers have other options. For example, Kavanagh wants to know whether the legislature could impose some sort

of self-destruct measure into an existing emergency, like saying it has to end when hospital or infection levels drop below a certain level.

The governor, in an interview with Capitol Media Services, said pulling the plug on his declaration would be a bad idea.

“We’re still in that public health emergency,’’ he said. “That’s why state law and the constitution provide for executive emergency authorities in situations like that.’’

State election laws present a different set of problems.

Arizona already has statutes designed to prevent fraud and determine the accuracy of vote counts.

For example, unlike some states, early ballots are mailed only to those who request them, whether on an election-byelection basis or signing up for the permanent early voter list. And the law requires a hand count of the votes from 2 percent of precincts or vote centers, comparing what the machines tallied with what humans have determined are the votes.

“I do think we do elections well,’’ Ducey said.

Sen. J.D. Mesnard, R-Chandler, wants that hand count increased to 5 percent along with provisions allowing the attorney general, the secretary of state or the legislative council to demand more.

Potentially more sweeping, he also wants to allow anyone with enough money to cover the costs to demand a full recount of any election. Now, the only way that happens is if the margin of victory falls within certain margins, like 200 votes for a statewide race.

There is some discussion about tight-

ening up that permanent early voter list, requiring names be purged if people don’t vote in two election cycles and don’t respond to a postcard.

During a webcast sponsored by the Chandler Chamber of Commerce, south Chandler’s delegation to the Legislature outlined their priorities and Mesnard said another election was his concern as chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee – namely, passage of Prop 208, which puts an income surcharge on the wealthiest wage earners in the state to �inance education at all levels.

“Obviously this gives us one of the higher income tax rates in the country and we’re already starting to hear about businesses from other states that are not going to be relocating here any longer or businesses here that are going to be migrating out of the state – which is not good,” Mesnard said.

“So we’re going to be looking at how we can make sure Arizona remains competitive.”

He cited several platform items on the Chamber’s legislative wish list and said that tax reform, including “the disproportionate share of the property tax businesses face” are big priorities.

Rep. Jeff Weninger said one of his priorities will be security immunity for businesses from most lawsuits �iled by employees who contract COVID-19 in the workplace – a measure that passed the House but stalled last year when the session was abruptly canceled because of the pandemic. He also said he wants to make it easier for to-go sales of alcoholic beverages for restaurants.

Rep. Jennifer Pawlik said various education-related issues are her primary concern

• Curbing the power of the Arizona Corporation Commission to set energy policy, including requirements for renewable energy.

• Deciding whether sex education classes, which already are optional, should not be available for anyone younger than the �ifth grade.

• Considering whether Arizona should have a lieutenant governor who would be elected on the same ticket with the governor, like the president and vice president.

• Restoring the right of local governments to impose restrictions on vacation rentals.

• Eliminating requirements for students to

be vaccinated before they can attend school.

• Debating whether to reduce prison sentences for certain nonviolent offenses.

• Allowing community colleges to offer four-year degrees as a less-expensive alternative to state universities. Similar plans have been beaten back in prior years by the Arizona Board of Regents.

• Requiring that doctors seeking to perform breast enhancement surgery on women provide more complete disclosure of the side effects.

• Raising the tax on gasoline or �inding other revenue sources for road construction and

maintenance, as the fund has taken a major hit with less travel during the pandemic.

• Setting new restrictions on drone operators.

• Requiring that any new or renovated school buildings have windows that open.

Banning the sale of eggs that do not come from cage-free chickens.

• Repealing a constitutional amendment that excuses lawmakers from arrest in all cases except treason, felony crimes and breach of the peace. It also allows legislators to avoid civil process during legislative sessions and for 15 days prior to

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

T

11

She wants to stabilize education funding for schools, and improve funding for special education and early childhood education.

She also is supporting more funding for higher education and workforce development, stating, “We want to make sure the students who are leaving our high schools are ready to go right into jobs.”

The issue of education funding goes to what Sen. Paul Boyer, R-Phoenix, believes is a broken promise.

When the pandemic hit, schools went to online learning. But the state funding formula provides fewer dollars for each child who is not sitting in a classroom.

On top of that, some students didn’t come back, leaving districts with �ixed costs but less state aid which is based on the number of students.

Ducey announced in June he was setting aside $370 million to guarantee that schools this academic year would have at least 98 percent of the funding they were getting last year. But that money ran out, leaving many districts with less.

“I really think we need to make sure we deliver on our promises,’’ said Boyer who chairs the Senate Education Committee.

But the governor said not to look for him to supplement that $370 million appropriation. “That’s been sent to schools,’’ Ducey said. “Unfortunately, districts saw much higher declines in enrollment than they originally anticipated.’’

Boyer said he is still trying to �igure out how much more schools need, either because of the lower reimbursement for online learning or declining enrollment.

“The principle for me is holding schools harmless,’’ he said. 

Other legislative issues include sex ed, lawmaker immunity, gas tax hike

each session.

• Levying fees on internet platforms that act as “publishers,’’ meaning they edit and remove certain content versus simply allowing anyone to post.

• Making it more dif�icult for police and prosecutors to use civil procedures to seize cars, money and other property if there is no underlying criminal conviction.

• Mandating that police and prosecutors put of�icers who have been judged to be dishonest on a publicly available “Brady list.’’

• Restricting access to weapons by people determined to be a danger to self or others. 

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

12

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COMMUNITY

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

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@EVTNow

13

/EVTNow

Mesa mom advances late son’s novel dreams

BY JIM WALSH Tribune Staff Writer

M

ore than two years after her son’s untimely death in Peru, Sherryl LaGrone of Mesa is realizing his dream and honoring his legacy in a unique way.

Christopher LaGrone, a former U.S. Border Patrol agent, was obsessed with writing a trilogy of novels loosely based upon his experiences while assigned to the Douglas station.

LaGrone, 41, an agent for two years, created the �ictional character of Layne Sheppard to tell the story of his two years in the Border Patrol, from 2007-2009.

But he passed away from altitude sickness in his hotel room in Cusco, Peru, on Dec. 16, 2018. He had been planning to tour Machu Piccho, an ancient Incan “lost city’’ high in the Andes Mountains.

Machu Picchu has an elevation of 7,972 feet, while Cusco, known as “The Imperial City,’’ has an elevation of 11,152 feet.

The �irst of Christopher’s three novels, “Fleeing the Past,” has just been published and the other two are scheduled to debut later this year.

“That’s all I care about,’’ Sherryl LaGrone. “It was almost an obsession. He was so passionate, just driven.’’

Sherryl, a retired high school business teacher, said her son worked at a series of jobs, including the Border Patrol, but never seemed to �ind his niche in life until he pursued his �lair for writing.

She was reluctant to describe her son’s experiences in the Border Patrol but said he had “mixed emotions’’ about his job.

“I remember him expressing how challenging it was to apprehend humans crossing the border who clearly were risking their life and the life of their children to �ind a better and safer place to live,’’ she wrote.

“Certainly, he was proud of his position, valued his team and the camaraderie, but I feel in the end the job just wasn’t what he had hoped for.’’

his novel, following his death, would never had happened without Denny,’’ Sherryl said.

Christopher had planned to write one border book but it was so long that Dressman advised him that the best way to tell the story was in a trilogy, but that further complicated efforts to �ind a publisher.

But Dressman was able to overcome this hurdle by using his contacts in the publishing world, working with a friend at Morgan James Publishing to make arrangements for publication.

“Naturally, for a parent to lose a child Mesa resident Sherryl LaGrone, seen here with her late son Christopher, is promoting the ictional trilogy her is a devastating and based on his time with the U.S. Border Patrol. (Special to the Tribune) unimaginable event But she said it gradually became clear only for running and working out to stay from which one will truly never recover,’’ that her son’s real passion was for writ- healthy. The last �ive months of his life, I Sherryl said. ing, adding that he had a gift for languag- believe were his happiest.’’

“This undertaking has given me an aves and words.

Sherryl said the novels would never enue to carry on my son’s dream and He had spent the last �ive months of his have been possible without the talents preserve his legacy. It has been a very life studying Spanish and Spanish culture of Denny Dressman, a retired longtime challenging, sometimes heartbreaking studying in Argentina, Chile and Peru and reporter with the Rocky Mountain experience, but also has helped mend a was scheduled to return home to Colorado News in Denver who also is the author deep, deep wound.’’ in January 2019. of 13 books.

When the books are published, “I’m goShe said her son thought that learning She said Dressman and her son had ing to know that many people will read his more about the Spanish language and cul- become close friends, while Dressman books and appreciate what he did as a huture would make his books better and he served as Christopher’s editor and mentor. man being,’’ she said. was thrilled with the experience.

While Christopher had started the third Known together as the “Delta Tango “Christopher was a man with unlimited book, he passed away before completing it. Trilogy,” the �irst book describes Sheptalent, who, in my opinion, never found Dressman volunteered to complete it, pard’s experiences apprehending people much satisfaction or pleasure from his warning Sherryl that he could not dupli- who are crossing the border illegally. job,” she said. “The last few years of his cate her son’s style of writing and had Book Two recounts Sheppard’s love aflife were about earning enough money to never written �iction before, but he would fair with a �ictional “Dreamer,’’ Felina Caallow him to spend his after-work hours do his best. marena Rivera, in “Felina’s Spell,’’ while and weekends writing, creating and per“Denny has mentored me, directed me book three completes the story in “Mofecting his novel.’’ and supported me every single step of ments of Truth.’’

“He would write until early hours of the this lengthy process. Christopher wrote The book is available on amazon.com in morning, all weekend days, making time a wonderful story, but the publishing of both hard copy and Kindle formats. 

14

BUSINESS

TheMesaTribune.com

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

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Mesa ‘micro-school’ serves home-schooled kids TRIBUNE NEWS STAFF

F

ourteen years ago, Lara DeRoule needed a break.

She had been a Pre-K-2 teacher for 15 years, both in Mesa Public Schools and a small private school, but tired of the bureaucracy of a public school system and decided to become a dental hygienist.

“It just was a bunch of testing at that time where I felt like we weren’t really using what we found out,” the Gilbert woman said.

Now, DeRoule is back in school – her own.

Two years ago, she started Dynamic Micro School, riding on a wave of a growing interest in small-group schools that are neither charters nor public and that aim for home-schooled children from Pre-K level to sixth grade.

Working in an old barn on the Superstition Farm in east Mesa, her goal is to help a group of no more than 15 “highly sensitive children find freedom, flexibility and fun in their learning environment so they can build the scaffolds they need to pursue their passions, enjoy life and contribute positively to the community.”

At a time when many campuses are closed because of the pandemic, microschools are gaining popularity as parents look for a nontraditional environment that offers classes small enough to encourage social distancing while countering the isolation often associated with online learning at home.

DeRoule said her school is an enrichment program for children who are homeschooled.

“It’s kind of cool for parents who want their kids to be in school,” said DeRoule, a certified teacher. “They’re able to socialize and we have a lot of open air and the kids can wear or not wear masks – whatever their parents want them to do. It’s just if a parent wants everybody else to be wearing a mask, I can’t guarantee that. Everybody has to be respectful of everyone else’s decision. I try to wear a mask when I’m close enough to the kids.”

one place, she said, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re all learning the same thing, as there are some lessons for the entire group and others requiring her to break them into smaller groups based on their ages.

Currently, her students range in age from 4 to 12.

“It’s more based on what a child’s ready for next – in math, Lara DeRoule is back to teaching the way she thinks kids should be science, reading, taught with her own micro-school located on Superstition Farm in whatever – rather Mesa. (Pablo Robles/Tribune Staff Writer) than ‘you’re in fifth Dynamic Micro School also is a kind of grade, so this is what you’re supposed to throwback to the little old schoolhouse, be doing.’”

She said a typical day comprises “a lot where kids of different ages all learn toof hands-on, project-based…guided learngether.

Because it’s on Superstition Farm, which ing” and that Fridays are devoted to kids’ is partly an animal rescue, “it’s a cool place “passion projects.”

“There also are certain skills I want to for the kids to be because of the animals,” said DeRoule, adding students also work get across and in most cases it’s an enin the garden as they learn about plants richment for kids who are already home schools, so it’s not necessarily for everyand how to grow them.

Though her students sit at desks in the cleanedout barn for now, DeRoule is planning to work with the farm owner and eventually have a school building that will look very much like a one-room schoolhouse.

A l t h o u g h Ezra Day and Hayden Wortman, students at Dynamic Micro School, are all her stu- helping to build a garden. (Pablo Robles/Tribune Staff Photographer) dents are in

body,” she continued. “My son for one is online through Chandler Online Academy but he’s able to integrate coming with me and doing his online school. He brings his computer and he does online classes and he joins us for other stuff.”

Much of what happens depends on the student’s age, DeRoule said, explaining that the younger ones “might actually switch projects or switch their subject for their project every week where the older child might study the same thing for four or five or six weeks. It just depends.”

Dynamic Micro School is not a franchise, though DeRoule is plugged into a network of similar schools to exchange ideas. ​Dynamic Micro School has four different options, which also can be combined in different ways. The four-day-a-week program provides 80 hours of instruction a month 8 a.m.-1 p.m.; the two-day-a-week program offers 40 hours of instruction a month. There also are the Passion Project Fridays and Spectacular Saturday Gatherings that meets once a month and focuses on art and STEM subjects.

And parents must provide proof their child is registered as a home-schooled student.

Now that she is back to teaching, DeRoule finds her school is more suited to the ideas she had about education when she was a teacher in public schools, which she found too regimented in the way they expected teachers to reach students.

“I’m kind of going back to my roots,” she said. “I’m able to go back and extract those things that I thought were most valuable to the kids and most fun – honestly, to teach not subject-wise but in manner of teaching,” she said.

“We can pick a theme and we can cover the different parts of academic through that theme or we can teach it through the way the kids are interested. We don’t have to pull out the Harcourt Brace second grade book and read this story because that’s what we’re supposed to do this week.”

Information: campdynamic.com.

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

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THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

Share Your Thoughts:

Send your letters on local issues to: pmaryniak@timespublications.com TheMesaTribune.com

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Death stills a towering voice for �ire�ighters

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Tribune Columnist

H

e wrestled with kidney cancer for a decade, fought like a demon, but �inally Dave Rehnke took his last breath on Jan. 11.

Rehnke worked for 26 years as a �ire�ighter in Peoria, rising to the rank of captain. He loved his city, his peers on the frontlines and the job – though it was �ire�ighting that killed him.

I met Rehnke �ive years ago at the Arizona Legislature, where the state’s �ire�ighters – clients of mine – were pushing to expand the roster of cancers presumed to be caused by their profession.

Rehnke, newly retired from Peoria, was �ive years into being eaten alive by renal

cell carcinoma, a cancer undoubtedly caused by his line of work with its smoke, soot and burning poisons.

He testi�ied before a legislative committee about how the disease metastasized into his lungs and the debilitating effects of chemotherapy; about how just one of his drugs cost $90,000 a year; about the months he had spent in court suing to get the workers’ compensation he so clearly deserved.

Don’t let this keep happening, he begged.

Don’t make �ire�ighters �ight job-related cancer and bankruptcy simultaneously.

The legislators, unmoved, did nothing to expand the law.

Rehnke continued to advocate for his former colleagues year after year. It seemed to take a little more out of him each time, but he never slowed down, never quit.

Of course, �ighting a few dozen heartless politicians is nothing compared to beating back rogue cells intent on murdering you.

Finally, last February, the Legislature passed a law expanding the number of cancers covered by �ire �ighters’ workers’ compensation insurance.

I’m glad Dave lived long enough to see it, that he had that victory to celebrate.

Because in a profession of heroes, Capt.

Rehnke was one of a kind – a man fully committed to helping not himself, but every other �ire �ighter who wears turnouts today or will one day put on the boots.

Dave leaves behind his wife of almost 29 years, Brenda, and their two children, Shannon and Dustin. I remember him telling me about getting his diagnosis back in 2011. His doctor gave him a �ive percent chance of surviving 10 years.

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Rehnke, who refused to miss seeing his young kids’ teenage years, basically told the doctor �ive percent was a silly number, and that he had no intention of dying. So, he didn’t.

Dave rode his bike, screamed at the TV rooting on his beloved Minnesota Vikings, raised a beautiful family and built a lasting legacy for himself as the director of the Arizona chapter of the Fire Fighter Cancer Support Network.

At a time when our nation seems awash in sel�ishness, Rehnke exempli�ied the concept of service before self, living one’s life for a cause greater than individual gain. Hunter Clare, president of the Peoria Fire Fighters, put it like this: “This is a guy that continued to �ight not only for his family, but for everyone in our profession, for each of us, even people who aren’t on the job yet. He had such passion for it.

“He didn’t want anyone to go through what he went through, what his family went through. In a profession of people willing to sacri�ice, he was willing to sacri�ice even more to try to make sure this would never happen again.”

I kept the notes from my �irst conversation with Rehnke, hoping I’d never need them for a story like this.

“I know my time is coming eventually,” he said back then. “But before it does, I want to do everything I can to make a difference. I am going to keep �ighting because this matters.” 

Share Your Thoughts: Send your letters on local issues to: pmaryniak @timespublications.com

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SPORTS

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

17

TheMesaTribune.com @EVTNow /EVTNow

AIA board reverses course, allows winter sports

BY ZACH ALVIRA Tribune Sports Editor

J

ust days after voting to cancel the winter sports season amid the surge in COVID-19, the Arizona Interscholastic Association Executive Board voted reversed its decision Jan. 12.

The 5-4 re-vote in favor of beginning winter sports on Jan. 18 followed an identical margin to cancel them. Jim Love, who represents the Flowing Wells Uni�ied Arizona School Boards Association, changed his vote and joined proponents of winter sports.

Love said his change of heart was largely due to his desire to give schools the choice whether to have sports on campus.

“This has been a very dif�icult decision for the Executive Board,” AIA Executive Director David Hines said in a press release.

“They have been weighing the concerns of the medical community, including the AIA Sports Medicine Advisory Committee, and the requests by our member schools. We all want winter sports to happen, but it must be done safely.”

The AIA board’s initial decision to cancel winter sports was met with backlash from players, parents and coaches across the state.

A small protest of athletes formed outside AIA of�ices shortly after the initial Jan. 8 announcement to cancel winter sports. A group of athletes and parents returned Jan. 12.

A petition calling for a re-vote was created by a North Canyon student and shared across several social media platforms. The petition was signed by over 30,000 people in just a few hours.

Additionally, administrators and coaches immediately began brainstorming basketball, soccer and wrestling leagues independent of the Arizona

Schools, we are going to follow that policy.

“As far as kids wearing facemasks while they compete, that’s up to us as coaches to enforce it and tell them this is what needs to happen.

They’ll be �ine.”

The AIA Executive Board emphasized throughout Tuesday’s meeting the need for schools, players, coaches and parents to abide by the new guidelines to ensure the safest possible environment for winter sports to continue.

Overall, they acknowledged the possible risk to the already strained healthcare system An unidentified teen athlete gives her view on the AIA’s cancellation of winter sports during a protest last week across Arizona due to outside its offices. The association’s board reversed its vote last week. (Pablo Robles/Tribune Staff Photographer) COVID-19 and emphaInterscholastic Association. Several Each school will be required to complete sized it will take action from all of those schools said they would explore options the AIA COVID-19 Athlete and Coach Mon- involved to make the season a success. to give athletes an opportunity to com- itoring Form on the day of athletic events.

“This has been a very challenging situapete at some capacity.

Those forms must be exchanged with op- tion. While we all desire to have our high “I kind of anticipated one of the �ive posing teams and will be monitored by of- school students in school and participate people would change their vote,” Mesa �icials. If the forms are not exchanged, of- in interscholastic sports and activities, we wrestling coach David DiDomenico said. �icials will be pulled from the contest. feel it is imperative to consider the rec“I really wasn’t that concerned, I think Additionally, masks must be worn at all ommendations of medical professionals we just had to be patient. It’s a big relief. times by coaches, of�icials and athletes, based on their expertise,” the board said Now we don’t have to go through all the even those actively participating. Hines in a joint statement. logistical stuff with another league. It’s a said any school that violates the guide“Reinstating the winter season poses a big relief.” risk to the healthcare system, which could lines will lose access to of�icials.

In approving the winter sports season, “The kids were going to compete any- impact students who may be injured. new recommendations were also adopted. way, so it’s better to be structured under “We believe that these additional modiThe board voted unanimously to allow the AIA than try to do that without them,” �ications will serve to mitigate this risk as two parents or guardians per player to DiDomenico said. “Parents coming to see much as possible. Our member schools attend as long as local mandates on the them with facemasks, that’s consistent and families must understand how critinumber of individuals allowed at events is with what happened in the fall. I know at cal it is to adhere completely to all modinot exceeded.

Mesa High and the rest of the Mesa Public �ications.” 

Have an interesting sports story?

Contact Zach Alvira at zalvira@timespublications.com and follow him on Twitter @ZachAlvira.

18

GET OUT

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

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Chandler �ilm fest expects growth amid pandemic

BY KEVIN REAGAN GetOut Staff Writer

T

he pandemic has not been kind to the �ilm industry this past year, yet Chandler International Film Festival organizers are refusing to let the health crisis prevent its attendees from celebrating the art of cinema.

Starting Jan. 21, the four-day festival returns to Chandler’s theaters for the �ifth consecutive year and will offer a slate of diverse �ilms for local moviegoers to enjoy – albeit with a few changes.

Pandemic guidelines will require theater capacity to be reduced to 30 percent and attendees will be expected to wear masks and socially distance.

In response to the lack of theater space, the festival has expanded its services by allowing patrons to watch the festival’s 120 �ilms in one of three locations: a theater, from home or from their car.

Some �ilms will be available to temporarily stream online and a couple movies will be screened in the parking lot of Chandler High School, where up to 100 cars can be in attendance.

“It will be disconnected, yet connected,” said Dave Waltzer, the festival’s treasurer and board member.

While audiences won’t be together under one roof, Waltzer said festival organizers are anticipating a boost in participation due to the added viewing options.

“It’s different this year,” he noted.

“It’s odd a little bit, but we’re actually getting more of the community involved in the festival.”

Some local high school students will be showcasing their short �ilms this year and participating in a symposium with professionals from the �ilm industry.

ICAN and AZCEND, two local nonprofits serving students and low-income families, will be receiving a portion of the pro�its from the festival’s ticket sales.

It was not immediately obvious whether the festival would return this year since most entertainment venues have

Among the Chandler Film Festival offerings is a thriller about nine people struggling with a pandemic. (Special to GetOut) mostly sat empty for the last 10 months.

While some theaters have reopened during the pandemic, Hollywood has not been releasing an abundant supply of �ilms and studios have shifted toward relying more on streaming platforms.

Box of�ice receipts have nationally been on the decline and 2020 was the �irst year in more than a decade that didn’t have a �ilm gross more than $1 billion.

Chandler’s organizers had discussed cancelling this year’s festival or going completely online, Waltzer said, but they felt con�ident their event could be staged safely and responsibly.

The red carpet and afterparty events

during the festival will be scaled down, he added, and audience numbers will be regularly monitored to ensure compliance.

Waltzer said it was important to prove organizers could still put on the festival amid the current circumstances and changes made this year may become a permanent �ixture for future festivals.

“It’s always good to think out of the box,” he added “I think going forward, we may extend that virtual option due to the response it’s getting. It may make sense to continue that.”

Chandler’s lineup of �ilms include a wide variety of documentaries, thrillers, dramas, and

familiar favorites.

The movies are made by �ilmmakers from more than 30 countries and some were shot locally around Arizona.

Mitesh Patel, the festival’s president, said he wanted this year’s lineup to be stronger than in previous years and he hopes they will have a broader reach with local audiences.

“Our goal is to showcase diversity, innovation, and uniqueness through the works of �ilmmakers from across the world in a local setting,” said Patel.

“Our drive-in events and online options this year give us the ability to reach more people.”

Our goal is to showcase diversity, innovation, and uniqueness through the works of filmmakers from across the world in a local setting. Our drive-in events and online options this year give us the ability to reach more people.

“The Unhealer,” a sci-�i �ilm shot in Apache Junction, will be one of the festival’s �irst features screened on Jan. 21 at Harkins Theater and some of the �ilm’s actors plan to be in attendance.

“Danni and the Vampire,” scheduled to be screened Jan. 23, is a comedic take on old horror tropes about a madcap drifter and her undead friend.

Other �ilms are a timely re�lection of the turmoil experienced collectively this past year and delve into subjects recognizable to most audiences.

On Jan. 24, the festival will screen “House of Quarantine,” a thriller about nine people struggling to cope with the pandemic and fear getting sick after one of them contracts the coronavirus.

A deadly contagion has ravaged the world in “The Cove,” a survival tale about two characters seeking sanctuary amidst a pandemic, and will be screened Jan. 22 at Harkins.

“COVID-19 vs. Arizona” is a documentary that will be screened Jan. 24 and features stories from local leaders on how they have navigated the pandemic.

The subject of climate change is examined in “Kiss the Ground,” a documentary screening Jan. 23 that reveals how the world’s ecosystems can be salvaged after decades of damage.

More information on the festival can be found at chandler�ilmfestival.com.

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

19

King Crossword

Public Notices

ACROSS 1 4 7 8 10 11 13 16 17 18 19 20 21 23 25 26 27 28 30 33

36 37 38 39 40 41

Opening Cartoon frame Vend “Dallas” matriarch Sleep problem Court hammers 1998 Bruce Willis thriller Shock partner Hoodwinks Water tester Gum flavor Roll call reply Fry lightly Belted area Cooking fat Uttered Chemical suffix Up and about Quilters’ get-together Wimbledon champ of 2008 Wife of Jacob Edition Nodded off D.C. baseball team Picnic crasher Ram’s mate

CITY OF MESA PUBLIC NOTICE FY 2021/2022 Public Hearings #2 and #3 Date of Publication: January 17, 2021 FY 2021/2022 Annual Action Plan Proposed Use of Funds for anticipated awards from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG), Emergency Solutions Grant Program (ESG), HOME Investments Partnership Program (HOME).

In accordance with the federal regulations at 24 CFR, Part 91, the City of Mesa (City) is required to prepare and submit an Annual Action Plan for its Housing and Community Development Entitlement Programs funded by HUD. The Action Plan for Fiscal Year 2021-2022 outlines how the City intends to spend approximately $4,065,626 in federal CDBG, $327,701 in ESG funds, and $1,510,503 in federal HOME entitlement funds.

28 29 30 31

Wan Used a broom Butter up the turkey Flightless birds

32 Compass pt.

34 Bruins’ sch.

35 Caesar’s “vidi”

Sudoku

DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 14 15 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

The FY 2021-2022 Annual Action Plan proposes uses of CDBG, ESG, and HOME funds for funding activities that are consistent with the City’s Five-Year Consolidated Plan. As a condition of the receipt of federal funds, the City is required to hold a minimum of two public hearings to inform the general public of additions or changes, including the cancellation of proposed activities or amendments to the City Citizen Participation Plan.

Public Hearings #2 and #3 Will be held on Monday, February 1 and Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. via a telephonic conferencing platform, and the live meetings will be accessible telephonically. More information can be found at https://www.mesaaz.gov/residents/community-development.

The live meeting for Monday, February 1 may be listened to by calling 669-900-6833 (or to find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/ad6fHzLxVl) using Meeting ID 930 5107 1119 and Passcode 808922 and following the prompts.

The live meeting for Tuesday, February 2 may be listened to by calling 669-900-6833 (or to find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/ad6fHzLxVl) using Meeting ID 910 4037 2379 and Passcode 906425 and following the prompts.

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Bull’s sound Ancient letter “My word!”

Wet dirt Secreted Less loony Sports venues Banshee’s cry Delta, for one Actress Tyler Long-legged shorebird

Written comments may be sent to: Michelle Albanese, City of Mesa, P.O. Box 1466, Mesa, AZ 85211-1 466. You may also contact her at (480) 644-4546, or via e-mail at Michelle.Albanese@mesaaz.gov for further information.

The City of Mesa is committed to making its public meetings accessible. For accommodations, translation, or additional information, please contact the City of Mesa Community Services at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at (480) 644-4546; or e-mail: CommunityRevitalization@mesaaz.gov; or AZRelay 7-1-1 for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Si necesita asistencia o traducción en español, favor de llamar al menos 48 horas antes de la reunión al 480-644-2767.

Michelle Albanese, Housing & Community Development Director (January 17, 2021 East Valley Tribune) 35680

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THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

20

Obituaries

Obituaries

Laird Anderson Jr.

Obituaries Mary Catherine Speropulos Mary Speropulos, who inspired generations of junior high students in the classroom by capturing their attention with theatrical humor and charm, died peacefully at Ryan House/Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix on Jan. 9. She was 69.

Cause of death was congestive heart failure, said her husband, Tom Speropulos.

She taught for 20 years at Sirrine Elementary and Smith JHS where parents vied to get their children into her classes. She once said, “Oh, you know, teaching is just theater. Once you get their undivided attention, the rest is easy.”

Her first career choice, in fact, had been acting. After a short stint at Arizona State University, Mary Cottam moved to Hollywood, hoping to break into pictures. She got a job as an assistant at Metromedia, the production company that produced such 1970s hit shows as “All in the Family” and “The Jeffersons,” but never realized her ambition to wind up in front of the camera herself.

She did, however, cement the relationship of her life with Speropulos, then a video post-production editing staffer for the Merv Griffin Show and ABC-TV and later a professional photographer. The two eloped to Las Vegas in 1977. They exchanged their vows in what they thought was the wedding chapel where her mother and father had tied their marital knot decades earlier. Only later did Mary and Tom learn the right one was down the street.

Their Hollywood time ended when Mary and Tom decided to move back to Arizona and pursue more stable careers. She enrolled again at Arizona State and eventually earned a Ph.D. in Education, with honors. After retiring from the classroom in 2011, Mary taught online for Grand Canyon University.

Born in Kanab, Utah, on March 30, 1951, to Mason and Laurel Cottam and raised in the tiny Northern Arizona town of Fredonia, Mary was exposed to fallout from atomic bomb testing in Nevada, only 150 miles away. Her family came to believe that

led to medical complications later in life.

The Cottams moved to Mesa in 1959, where Mary graduated from Westwood High School in 1969.

When she wasn’t working, she loved to entertain her extended family. A favorite tradition was a huge water gun fight in the Speropulos backyard, held every year to celebrate the birthday of her brother John.

Her warmth was matched by a sometimes wicked sense of humor. In a brief obituary she wrote for herself some years ago, she said, “Mary disliked nature and spent most of her time indoors, where she enjoyed napping and eating French fries. Her most notable excursion was to Las Vegas, where she eloped with a very handsome man.

“She became a teacher later in life after a failed career in the tap dancing industry,” she continued. “She was known for constantly torturing her students with graphic details of her many facelifts.”

With her flaming red hair, an infectious smile and wild laugh, her charm was irresistible. Once, lost with her mother in downtown Washington, DC, while visiting her sister Linda, she talked a Metrobus driver into veering miles off his route to deliver them to Linda’s home in Arlington, across the Potomac River. To the astonishment of Linda and a neighbor, the bus hissed to a stop late at night on the little suburban street, and Mary and her mother alighted as passengers called out cheerful farewells. The bus driver climbed down, posed for a photograph with mother and daughter, then proceeded back to the city.

Mary is survived by her husband of 43 years; five siblings: John Cottam of Mesa; Linda Kauss (Clark Hoyt) of Great Falls, VA; Tom Cottam (Carolyn) of Mesa; Howard Cottam (Julie) of Escondido, CA; and James Christopher Cottam (Kristy) of Maricopa, AZ; 15 nieces and nephews and five great nieces and nephews.

At Mary’s request, there will not be a formal funeral service. The family plans a celebration of her life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in her honor may be sent to Ryan House/Hospice of the Valley, 110 W. Muhammad Ali Way, Phoenix, AZ, 85013.

Sign the Guestbook at: obituaries.EastValleyTribune.com

Laird Anderson Jr., a longtime resident of St. Paul, Minnesota, and a current resident of Scottsdale, Arizona, was a kind, gentle, quiet man who adored his wife of 42 years, Kathleen Anderson.

Kathy was able to be with Laird when he died on Jan. 3, 2021, of the cruel, merciless, brutal COVID-19 virus. He was 75 years old. www.greenacresmortuary.net Sign the Guestbook at: obituaries.EastValleyTribune.com

Need help writing an obituary?

We have articles that will help guide you through the process.

Deadline for obituaries is Wednesday at 5pm for Sunday. All obituaries will be approved by our staff prior to being activated. Be aware there may be early deadlines around holidays.

Call 480-898-6465 Mon-Fri 8:30-5 if you have questions.

Visit: obituaries.EastValleyTribune.com

Obituaries H E A D STO N E S

EVERLASTING MONUMENT Co.

“Memories cut in Stone”

Jane Enniss Sheets Jane Enniss Sheets (90) passed away on December 28, 2020 in Rexburg, Idaho. She was born in Murray, Utah on May 5, 1930 to Willard Boulter and Annie Huff Enniss.

She lived in Draper, Utah until she left home to attend the University of Utah's nursing program. Jane was in The U of U's first graduating class to receive a BS in nursing. After graduation, she worked in the psychiatric ward of the VA Hospital in Salt Lake City where she met her future husband, Robert N. Sheets.

The summer before their marriage, Jane was able to spend a summer traveling in Europe with the University of Utah's Study Abroad. During her visit to Europe, the Berlin wall went up. This trip was a very fulfilling experience for her.

After marrying, Jane and Robert lived in Colorado, Wisconsin, and Utah before finally making their home in Mesa, Arizona in 1969.

Jane had three children: John (who died as an infant), Nathan, and Susan. Later in life, Jane worked at Poston Jr High in the Special Education Department and at Rockford Corporation. After she retired, she enjoyed spending time with her friends and visiting her children, beloved grandchildren, and extended family. Jane also loved reading, sewing, board games, chocolate, ice cream, and hamburgers.

Jane is survived by her children Nathan (Kim) Sheets and Susan (Steven) Hunsaker; her grandchildren Allison, Camille (Alex), Sarah (Alex), Grant, David, Matthew, Ian, Eli, and Maren; and two great-grandchildren, Azie and Bennet. She is also survived by her siblings and extended family, whom she loved very much: Mary Baird, Noel Enniss, Bruce Enniss and many nieces and nephews. Jane was preceded in death by both of her parents, her son, John, and her brother, Leonard. She was laid to rest in Larkin Sunset Gardens in Sandy, Utah on January 2, 2021.

Sign the Guestbook at: obituaries.EastValleyTribune.com

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THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

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PAVER • CONCRETE REMOVAL • HARDSCAPE BONDED & INSURED • ROC#321648 SATISFACTION GUARANTEED! FREE ESTIMATES • 16 YEARS EXPERIENCE RESIDENTIAL CALL JOHN: 480.797.2985 COMMERCIAL

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

YOU’LL LIKE US - THE BEST!

East Valley/ Ahwatukee

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

Not a licensed contractor

Handyman HANDYMAN 37 years experience.

Drywall, framing, plumbing, painting, electrical, roofing and more. Stan, 602-434-6057

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

FREE Estimates

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

Garage/Doors OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE SERVICING & INSTALLING GARAGE DOORS AND OPERATORS

OPEN 24/7

Drywall

JOSE DOMINGUEZ DRYWALL & PAINTING House Painting, Drywall, Intall Doors, Baseboards, Crown Molding Reliable, Dependable, Honest!

QUICK RESPONSE TO YOUR CALL! 15 Years Experience • Free Estimates

OUR JOB BOARD HAS THE TALENT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR.

FIND THE BEST TALENT. EASILY POST JOBS. COMPETITIVE PRICING AND EXPOSURE More info: 480-898-6465 or email jobposting@evtrib.com

J BS. EASTVALLEY TRIBUNE.COM

Most jobs also appear on Indeed.com

WE’RE ALWAYS HERE TO SERVE YOUR CLASSIFIED NEEDS

480.898.6465 CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

• SERVING ALL OF METRO PHOENIX • HONEST AND REPUTABLE CUSTOMER SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

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

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

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

All trades done by hands-on General Contractor.

Friendly, artistic, intelligent, honest and affordable.

40 years' experience.

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

Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs!

Marks the Spot for ALL•Your Handyman Needs! ✔ Painting Painting Flooring • Electrical 480.266.4589 “No Job Too ✔Small Flooring Painting • Flooring • Electrical Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry Man!” josedominguez0224@gmail.com Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry ✔ Electrical Decks • Tile • More!

Not a licensed contractor.

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

General Contacting, Inc. Licensed • Bonded • Insured • ROC118198

One Call, We Do It All! 602-339-4766 Owner Does All Work, All Honey-Do Lists All Remodeling, Additions, Kitchen, Bath, Patio Covers, Garage, Sheds, Windows, Doors, Drywall & Roofing Repairs, Painting, All Plumbing, Electrical, Concrete, Block, Stucco, Stack Stone, All Flooring, Wood, Tile, Carpet, Welding, Gates, Fences, All Repairs.

Free Estimates with Pride & Prompt Service!

ACTION CONTRACTING INC. WE DO IT ALL!

Bath & Kitchen Remodels • Car-Port to Garage Conversion Drywall & Stucco Repairs • Plumbing • Electrical • Can Lights Windows • Doors • Cabinets • Painting • Block Fences Wrought Iron Gates • Remodeling • Additions • Patios Tenant Improvements

East Valley

480-833-7353 - Office 480-430-7737 - Cell A+

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19

78

-

LIC/BONDED/INSURED Res/Comm’l ROC#218802

aaaActionContractingInc.com

Irrigation

Handyman

LLC

ANOZIRA DOOR SYSTEMS

Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs!

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

Home Improvement

• Drywall Repair • Bathroom Remodeling • Home Renovations

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

Sprinkler & Drip Systems Repairs • Modifications • Installs

GENERAL CONTRACTOR / HANDYMAN SERVICES SERVING THE ENTIRE VALLEY

All Estimates are Free • Call:

520.508.1420

www.husbands2go.com

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

Hauling

Small Man!” Decks • Tile • More! ✔ Kitchens 9 199 ce Sin rk Wo HONESTY • INTEGRITY • QUALITY Affordable, Quality ceBSMALLMAN@Q.COM ✔ Bathrooms 2010, 2011 9 199 Sin rk 2012, “No 2013, Job Too Affordable, Quality Wo And More!

2010, 2011 Small Man!” 2014 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 • Panel Changes 2012, 2013, 2014 andResident/ Repairs References/ Insured/ Ahwatukee NotResident a Licensed Contractor 1999 Since Ahwatukee / References Affordable, Quality Work 2010, 2011 2012, 2013, Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ a Licensed Contractor • Installation of Insured/ Not Insured / Not aCall Licensed Contractor 2014 Bruce at 602.670.7038

Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038

• Serving Arizona Since 2005 •

Ceiling Fans • Switches/Outlets • Home Remodel

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

Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor

MISSED THE DEADLINE? Call us to place your ad online!

480-898-6465

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

• Old Paint & Chems.

• Yard Waste • Concrete Slab • Remodeling Debris • Old Tires

• 20 Years Experience • 6 Year Warranty

480.345.1800 ROC 304267 • Licensed & Bonded

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

23

Painting

Plumbing

Public Notices

Jose Dominguez Painting & Drywall SEE OUR AD IN DRYWALL! Quick Response to your Call!

15 Years Exp 480-266-4589

PLUMBERS CHARGE TOO MUCH!

JAMES MADISON PREPARATORY SCHOOL, INC 5815 S MCCLINTOCK DR. TEMPE, AZ 85283 480-345-2306 480-345-0059 (FAX) www.madisonprep.org Announces open enrollment for grades 6, 7, 8, 9, & 10 for 2021-2022 school year.

The open enrollment period is February 1-19, 2021.

Irrigation

• Sprinkler/Drip Repairs • New Installs Poly/PVC • Same Day Service

Not a licensed contractor

NTY

5-YEAR WARRA

480.654.5600

HOME IMPROVEMENT & PAINTING

azirrigation.com Cutting Edge LLC • ROC 281671

Landscape/Maintenance Superstition Landscape Maintenance

Junk Removal PLUS House Cleaning Call or Text Adrian 480•376•9803 or 480•925•1418

Honest & Reliable

FREE Estimates

Irrigation Repair Services Inc. Licensed • Bonded • Insured Technician

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

Call Lance White

480.721.4146 www.irsaz.com

ROC# 256752 Insured/Bonded Free Estimates

ALL Pro

T R E E

S E R V I C E

Interior/Exterior Painting 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Dunn Edwards Quality Paint Small Stucco/Drywall Repairs

We Are State Licensed and Reliable!

Free Estimates • Senior Discounts

480-338-4011

ROC#309706

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

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

Roofing

Bonded/Insured • ROC #223709

480-405-7099 ItsJustPlumbSmart.com

East Valley PAINTERS

Tiles, shingles, flat, repairs & new work Free Estimates • Ahwatukee Resident Over 30 yrs. Experience

480-706-1453

Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099

Voted #1 Paint Interior & Exterior • Drywall Repair Light Carpentry • Power Washing • Textures Matched Popcorn Removal • Pool Deck Coatings Garage Floor Coatings • Color Consulting

10% OFF

We Beat Competitors Prices & Quality Free Estimates!

Home of the 10-Year Warranty!

480-688-4770

www.eastvalleypainters.com Family Owned & Operated

Now Accepting all major credit cards

Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131

Plumbing

Pool Service / Repair

Juan Hernandez

Pavers • Concrete • Water Features • Sprinkler Repair

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

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

Call Juan at

480-720-3840 Not a licensed contractor.

SHARE WITH THE WORLD! Place a Birth, Anniversary, Wedding Announcement, In Memoriam, Obituary or any life event in this paper today!

Call us for details.

L L C

Prepare for Winter Season!

LANDSCAPING, TREES & MAINTENANCE

Tree Trimming • Tree Removal Stump Grinding Storm Damage • Bushes/Shrubs Yard Clean-up Commercial and Residential PMB 435 • 2733 N. Power Rd. • Suite 102 • Mesa dennis@allprotrees.com

480-354-5802

HYDROJETTING

480-477-8842

SEWER CABLE COMPREHENSIVE, FULL-SERVICE PLUMBING COMPANY

BOOK ONLINE! STATE48DRAINS.COM 20+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED ROC 3297740

class@timespublications.com or call 480-898-6465

THE MESA TRIBUNE | JANUARY 17, 2021

24

Arizona’s Resort-Style Home Builder

MASTER PLANNED CELEBRATED COMMUNITIES BY BLANDFORD HOMES

Award-winning Arizona builder for over 40 years.

Blandford Homes specializes in building master planned environments with a variety of amenities, parks, and charm.

You’ll find the perfect community to fit your lifestyle.

A Stratford in Gilbert NOW PRESELLING A Dramatic New Gated Community

Vintage Collection • From the $400’s • 480-895-2800 Craftsman Collection • From the $500’s • 480-988-2400

E D

B Palma Brisa – In Ahwatukee Foothills NOW SELLING A Dramatic New Gated Community

From the $400’s • 480-641-1800

C Belmont at Somerset – Prime Gilbert Location NOW SELLING Luxury estate homes and timeless architecture From the $800’s • 480-895-6300

B

D Estates at Mandarin Grove NOW SELLING

C GERMANN

A

11 luxury single-level estate homes, in the Citrus Groves of Northeast Mesa, with 3- to 6-car garages plus optional RV garages and carriage houses • From the $900’s • 480-750-3000

E Estates at Hermosa Ranch NOW SELLING

12 single-level homes on extra large homesites in the Citrus Groves of Northeast Mesa with 5- to 6-car garages plus optional RV garages and carriage houses • From the $900’s • 480-750-3000

BlandfordHomes.com Not all photos shown are representative of all communities.

Terms and conditions subject to change without notice.