Peoria Times 12-26-2019

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This Week

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December 26, 2019

Peoria’s Hometown Newspaper

Lesko takes a stand on Capitol Hill

BY TOM SCANLON

Peoria Times Managing Editor

NEWS..............5

Wednesday, Dec. 18, will go down in history as Impeachment Day. It was also Debbie Lesko’s breakout day.

In 4 minutes on the U.S. House of Representatives floor, the Republican congresswoman from District 8 went from unknown-freshman to trending-like-crazy. A few hours after her speech accusing Democrats of “tearing America apart” went viral, she told the Glendale Star she prepared for her big moment by praying.

“I asked God to give me the right words and the right way to say it,” Lesko said.

“Madam Speaker, this is a sad day. I be-

lieve Democrats are tearing this country apart. They’re tearing families apart,” Lesko said on the House floor, in a speech also televised by many national outlets.

Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., voted with the House majority to impeach Trump.

Lesko’s impassioned defense of President Donald Trump — and attack on the Democrats leading an impeachment charge — had social media buzzing.

On Twitter, veteran performer Bette Midler gave Lesko the hook: “Now the gal, Debbie Lesko, R-Ariz., is grandstanding big time!! Blame the Dems, don’t blame the criminal in the WH (White House).”

According to NBC News, “Rep. Deb-

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BY TOM SCANLON

bie Lesko, R-Ariz., gave an impassioned speech against impeachment on the floor wearing black.”

The liberal publication American Independent noted Lesko, “a staunch advocate of Donald Trump’s harsh immigration policies, accused Democrats of ‘tearing families apart’ during the House debate over articles of impeachment on Wednesday.”

She was also mentioned in the New York Times coverage: “Republicans aired Trump-style grievances about what Arizona Rep. Debbie Lesko called a ‘rigged’ process.”

Breitbart.com also referenced Lesko in SEE LESKO PAGE 2 AND

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Peoria Times Managing Editor

FEATURES .... 22 New Year’s Eve events around the West Valley

OPINION.......................... 12 BUSINESS........................ 14 SPORTS............................ 16 CALENDAR...................... 19 FEATURES........................ 22 RELIGION......................... 26 YOUTH............................. 28 CLASSIFIEDS.................... 31

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While the nation was focused on the likes of impeachment, trade issues, low unemployment and a rollercoaster stock market, here are some of the top local stories of 2019: No override Voters narrowly rejected an override request by the Peoria Unified School District, which has several high schools and elementary schools in Glendale.

It will be back to the chalkboard for PUSD after voters rejected a bond override request by 133 votes, a margin of just .29%.

The district, which has 42 schools in Peoria and Glendale, asked voters for a $33.7 million budget override.

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peoriatimes.com The latest breaking news and top local stories in Peoria!

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LESKO FROM PAGE 1

its impeachment coverage: “Debbie Lesko, a Republican from Arizona, said Trump was being subjected to the most unfair, politically biased rigged process I have seen in my entire life. “‘There is no proof, none, the president has committed an impeachable offense,” Lesko said. ‘This is the most partisan impeachment in the history of the United States.’”

While she receives fiery criticism from the left, Lesko is supported by commenters at breitbart.com and on Twitter @RepDLesko.

Prior to voting against the two articles of impeachment, Lesko said nothing was going to shake her belief Trump did nothing wrong. She said she had an insider’s view on the long impeachment process by being on the House Rules and House Judiciary committees gave her an insider’s view - though she expressed frustration over Democrat leaders not sharing key information.

When Lesko visited the White House a few nights before the impeachment vote, she said Trump knew who she was, and how she had been defending him.

“He said to me, ‘You’re really doing

a good job. You’re smart. Thank you.’

“I said, ‘Thank you, Mr. President.’”

Even before impeachment day, Lesko’s defense of Trump was under attack.

She had a volatile interview with CNN, which led to a Washington Post story: “Rep. Debbie Lesko (R-Ariz.) led the way last week by arguing Trump hadn’t even asked Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate his political rival in their July 25 phone call.”

Such coverage gets Democrats and Republicans fired up, Lesko said.

“I hear from both sides,” she said.

“We take calls from everyone … People who don’t like President Trump at all and don’t like me defending him, and people who think the whole impeachment thing is a sham and say, ‘Go, Debbie.’ The calls pick up when I go on TV.” According to Heather Smith, Lesko’s press secretary, “Over the last 28 days on Twitter her tweets were viewed 12.2 million times, 273,000 people visited her profile, and she gained 20,338 followers.

“She got dozens of supportive messages on Instagram this week, and a handful of negative ones ... She got 1,292 new likes on Facebook this week.”

While the impeachment process is obviously the topic of debate, it is indisputable it has consumed congressional hours, days and weeks.

“It is a waste of time,” Lesko said.

“I’ve been on the Judiciary Committee since January, and almost the entire time we’ve been doing investigations.

(Judiciary Chairman Jerry) Nadler would call them impeachment investigations even though (House Speaker Nancy) Pelosi wouldn’t call them that.”

Being on the House Rules Committee afforded her 4 minutes to speak, during pre-impeachment vote debate.

She said she woke up at 6 a.m. Dec. 18, listened to Christmas and Christian music, then mentally prepared for the day as she walked from her $2,700 per month apartment to the U.S. Capitol.

“I decided not to write up a written statement, I was going to talk from the heart,” she said.

“We’ve been at this for quite some time, being on the Rules Committee, I know this stuff by heart. So I just started talking. I prayed and asked God to give me the right words and the right way to say it.”

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Rep. Ruben Gallego, (D-District 7), voted with the marjority to impeach President Trump. (Photo

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Rep. Debbie Lesko (R-District 8) was vocal in her defense of Donald Trump during the impeachment process. (Photo courtesy Rep. Debbie Lesko)

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courtesy Rep. Ruben Gallego)

December 26, 2019

She repeated a view almost acting as a mantra: “There has been no evidence the President committed any impeachable offense. None of the democrat witnesses, not one of them was able to establish the President committed treason, high crimes or misdemeanors required for impeachment.”

Though the impeachment process was a time burner, Lesko said she still was able to focus on issues relevant to the West Valley. She said research for her 2018 campaign made it clear to her what the West Valley wanted.

“In my district, illegal immigration and solving the immigration crisis polled at the very top - there wasn’t anything close,” Lesko said.

Lesko also serves on the House Homeland Security Committee. “That’s the one committee that actually get bills through on a bipartisan basis,” Lesko said.

“Last year, I (sponsored) a bill signed into law by President Trump and this year I have two bipartisan bills that passed out of the House.

“I’ve been told one, the Helping Families Fly act will be voted out of Senate by the end of this year.”

She has a framed copy of the United States Ports of Entry Threat and Operational Review Act Trump signed into law Dec. 21, 2018. It requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to conduct a threat and operational analysis of ports of entry.

Lesko co-sponsored H.R. 3971 Senior Citizens Tax Elimination Act. “It eliminates federal income tax on Social Security,” she said. That bill has been in the House Committee on Ways and Means since July.

She said she also is backing a bill to would give local communities more power in education spending. “There’s so much federal bureaucracy,” Lesko said. “All kinds of strings are attached and regulations with school districts.”

In the coming months, Lesko will start campaigning, as 2020 is an election year for her.

Before then, she planned to spend Christmas week at her Peoria home.

“I’m very busy here in D.C.,” she said. “I usually only get back to Arizona one week of every month.

“I miss my family. My husband comes here (to D.C.) usually two weeks of every month. He’s in cybersecurity, so he can work from anywhere. But I miss my kids. And we have four grandkids, I miss them.”

Lesko reflected on the irony of her first full year in Congress. (In April 2018, she won a special election to fill

December 26, 2019

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Peoria Times the seat vacated by Trent Franks, who resigned Lesko then won a general election for the District 8 seat in November 2018.)

“When I first got here, I asked to be on the Armed Services Committee, which Trent Franks was on and before him the late Bob Stump. That’s important because have Luke Air Force Base in our district. But then we (Republicans) lost the majority, and got reduced seats in Armed Services.”

So instead, Lesko ended up on the Rules and Judiciary committees. Her colleagues warned her both committees would be grinds, with late-night sessions hashing over legalities.

She could hardly foresee those committees would give her an insiders’ view of only the third impeachment in American history, as well as a forum to proclaim her views.

“Boy, this is the way God works,” Lesko said.

“He puts you in the place and gives you things you’re not even asking for.

We did the articles of impeachment, and I was right in the middle of history.”

Arizona representatives take party line on impeachment Arizona Democrats at the U.S. House of Representatives voted with the majority to impeach President Donald Trump Dec. 18.

Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-District 7., expressed his views on the House floor and social media.

“Those still defending the president’s actions are desperately grasping at straws while living in an alternative universe where facts don’t exist,” Gallego said at the House.

Later, Gallego tweeted: “Not a single House Republican stood up tonight in defense of the rule of law and our democracy. History will not be kind.”

Rep. David Schweikert, R-Ariz., among other Republicans voted against impeachment. “Although we saw this day coming for quite some time, I am saddened our country has been put through this partisan and political impeachment process resulted in no evidence of President Trump committing ‘treason, bribery or other high crimes and misdemeanors,” said Schweikert.

A two-thirds vote from the Republican-controlled Senate is needed to remove Trump from office.

NEWS

yield to the pedestrian in the crosswalk.

Charges were not immediately filed as an investigation was pending.

TOP 19 FROM PAGE 1

PUSD will have one more chance to put a budget increase to voters. If it fails, the district says it will have to make significant cuts.

Student killed A 14-year-old Peoria High School freshman died after he was hit by a car Nov. 15.

The boy was crossing the street on his way to school.

According to Peoria Police, the driver of a minivan was traveling northbound on 83rd Avenue and failed to

Austin grieved Austin Rawlings, 5, died Nov. 29 when the vehicle she and other family members were in was submerged in water at Tonto Creek.

She was a student at Peoria’s West

Wing School.

“There are no words that can adequately express the sorrow that accompanies the death of Austin. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to her family and friends,” West Wing Principal Dr. Linda Price-Barry said, in a letter to the community.

Teacher arrested Elementary school teacher Ricky Ordway was arrested and faces trial as an alleged serial child molester.

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Peoria Times

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December 26, 2019

Espinoza wants autism added to medical marijuana law

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

A state lawmaker is seeking to force state health officials to do something they have previously rejected: allow the use of medical marijuana to treat autism.

The proposal by Rep. Diego Espinoza, a Democrat who represents Tolleson and Avondale, would add “autism spectrum disorder’’ to the list of what a 2010 voter-approved law considers “debilitating medical conditions’’ for which a doctor can recommend the use of marijuana by patients. Espinoza said parents want it as an option for treating some of the symptoms as an alternative to other medications.

HB 2049 also would allow the use of marijuana by those who are suffering from opioid use disorder. Espinoza said he sees the use of marijuana as far preferable to people dying in his legislative district from overdoses.

The 2010 law allows doctors to recommend marijuana to those who suffer from certain listed conditions, ranging from cancer, glaucoma, AIDS

and Crohn’s disease to seizures, severe nausea and severe and chronic pain.

But the law also allows state health officials to add conditions themselves if they believe it is medically justified.

Parents of some children with autism made such a request two years ago only to have their plea rejected. The decision was upheld last year, with a state hearing officer concluding the petition “failed to provide evidence the use of marijuana will provide therapeutic or palliative benefit to an individual suffering from ASD.’’ Espinoza’s bill would eliminate the need for health department approval -- or even medical studies -- by getting legislators to add autism into the list of permitted conditions in the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act. But he said bypassing the department does not bother him.

He pointed out Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed legislation earlier this year adding autism to the list of conditions for which medical marijuana can be recommended.

Things To Know About “Knee Pain” After An Active Weekend…

By Leading Physical Therapist, Nick Hunter

Many people will put up with bad knees hoping that the pain will go away on its own. Unfortunately, 9 times out of 10, the pain gets worse and hangs around. With that in mind, I thought I’d give you a couple tips to help you make knee pain much less of a frustration in your life.

Tip 1: What shoes do you wear on a daily basis? The shoes you wear can have a big impact on all sorts of pain. Wearing shoes with a heel (or a shoe that makes you walk differently) can cause tight calf muscles and put immense pressure on your knee joint. A tight calf can pull the foot inward to a position called pronation, which causes your feet to collapse and your lower leg to roll in, placing stress on your knees. So, I recommend choosing flat shoes and stretch out those calves!

Also, replace your sneakers and walking shoes frequently – every 300 miles. This could be anywhere from every three months to a year, depending on your level of activity. This is a safe way to avoid wearing a shoe with poor cushioning support for your feet and joints.

Tip 2: I know it’s tempting to rest if you have knee pain. However, too much rest can actually make knee pain worse! When you rest all day you’re not using your muscles which causes them to become weak, tight, and to ache even more when you attempt to move.

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If you start using these tips, you’ll be keeping your knees safe and your independence won’t be threatened by troublesome knee pain!

Have questions about strains? Call or text our clinic to speak to one of our PTs! (623) 466-6448 Author, Nick Hunter, is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and owner of Preferred Physical Therapy. He’s happy to answer any questions about low back or chronic pain by call or text at (623) 466-6448 or check out his website: www.preferredptaz.com.

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The use of marijuana to help those addicted to opioids is a different matter.

There is no evidence anyone petitioned the health department to add this condition to the list for which marijuana use is legally permitted. But Espinoza said there is reason to believe it is a better option, particularly in a state which had been in the midst of an opioid epidemic.

“I have overdoses in my community it seems like every day,’’ he said. “And so if marijuana could be an alternative to help wean them off, then why not try that?’’

Rep. Diego Espinoza, D-Tolleson, wants autism and opioid addiction The idea of marijuana to be added’ to the list of what a 2010 voter-approved law considers as a legal option to deal “debilitating medical conditions.” (Capitol Media photo) with addiction has come up in Arizona before.

“In Colorado there are families that In 2018, then-Rep. Vince Leach, actually have results based on what R-Tucson, agreed to language to a bill their children have been experiencing he was sponsoring to add opioid use by taking medical marijuana,’’ Espino- disorder to what would allow doctors za said. He also said it appears to be to legally recommend the drug. The a better alternative than other medica- measure cleared the House but faltered tions currently available, often riddled in the Senate. with side effects.

And in 2017, as Arizona was facing “So how could you deny, especially an average of two deaths a day from a parent willing to try. Transition into opioid overdoses, state health officials this alternative to see if it would be a started looking for ways to curb the better alternative for them?’’ Espinoza abuse and addiction. State Health Diasked. And he said there’s no reason rector Cara Christ noted chronic pain, for parents to have to move to Colora- one of the reasons some people get do to get the drugs they need for their hooked on opioids, is one of the condichildren. tions for which marijuana already can Nor is he deterred by the lack of the be recommended. kind of studies the health department Still, she stopped short of suggesting recognizes as proving marijuana is ef- doctors start treating patients with marfective in helping children with autism. ijuana.

“I can share with you I have worked “Each individual is going to be differwith constituents in my district where ent,’’ Christ said, saying patients need their sons and daughters have had tre- to discuss options with their doctors. mendous results,’’ Espinoza said. “I’ve Backers of expanding the medical actually seen in first hand.’’ use of marijuana will need to generate Still, he acknowledged Arizona par- a great deal of support to get HB 2049 ents who are getting marijuana legally enacted into law. are able to obtain it because their chilIt’s because the original 2010 law, dren are having seizures, a side effect having been approved by voters, can for some youngsters with autism. And only be altered with a three-fourths seizures already is one of the condi- vote of the Legislature. That means 23 tions for which the 2010 law already of 30 senators and 45 of 60 represenpermits medical use. tatives.

December 26, 2019

Peoria Times

NEWS

5

Loop 202 now connects East, West Valleys

BY PAUL MARYNIAK Peoria Times Staff Writer

After decades of planning and preparation, years of litigation and 36 months of digging, blasting and back-breaking work, the Congressman Ed Pastor Freeway connecting the East and West Valleys opened Saturday, Dec. 21.

The day before, Gov. Doug Ducey held a press conference for the 22-mile, eight-lane link connecting the Chandler and West 59th Avenue interchanges on Interstate 10 – and a thoroughfare for an estimated 117,000 to 140,000 vehicles a day, half of the trucks.

Joining Ducey for the announcement at the new freeway bridges over the Salt River are a host of dignitaries and officials, ranging from Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis of the Gila River Indian Community to Arizona Cardinals President Michael Bidwill and Arizona Department of Transportation Director John Halikowski, as well as members of the

late congressman’s family.

“Decades in the making, this opening marks a historic achievement for Arizona,” Ducey said in a release. “This new highway – the largest highway project in state history – represents Arizona’s continued commitment to 21st-century infrastructure will enable our state’s growth for generations to come.”

While the freeway’s exact opening date has been kept a closely guarded secret, several sources have indicated it would be Friday, Dec. 20.

State Engineer Dallas Hammit told the State Transportation Board at a meeting Nov. 15, “We are moving forward with a dedication date on I believe it’s Dec. 18 with the governor and others will be overseeing or participating in and then we look to open shortly after – within probably four to five days.”

The board members were told they’d be put on a bus Thursday, Dec. 19, for a personal ride along the length of the

Clear sign Desert Diamond Casino opening is nearing

BY OCTAVIO SERRANO Peoria Times Staff Writer

The 65-foot sign that lit up last week is also a sign that the opening of the Desert Diamond Casino West Valley is approaching.

The casino is scheduled to open at 9431 W. Northern Avenue in Glendale Feb. 19. The construction cost is an estimated $400 million.

The double-sided LED sign, near the corner of West Northern and North 91st avenues, can be seen from the Loop 101.

At a Dec. 16 ceremony, Treena Parvello, director of public relations and communications for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise said, “This is more than just a sign. It is a beacon of progress for the Desert Diamond Casino. It is also a testament to the hard work of Tribal leaders and team members and will serve as a permanent fixture as we move forward in creating positive economic development for the Nation and the West Valley.”

According to casino leaders, the expanded casino offers new slot machines, poker and blackjack tables and will host live bingo on its 75,000-squarefoot gaming floor. In addition, the new facility will feature five restaurants.

Rudy Prieto, CEO of Desert Diamond Casinos, said this is just a sneakpeek of what’s to come.

“This is a little preview of what’s coming in about 10 weeks from now,” Prieto said. “It’s very significant because it’s the first step in lighting up the future for this magnificent property. It’s the largest sign of any casino in Arizona.”

According to casino leaders, once completed, the facility will be 2.3 million-square-foot and will be one of the region’s largest employers with over 2,000 team members.

“We are pushing our tribal employment numbers and doing all we can to make sure we live up to our obligations of tribal employment and generating revenue for the nation,” said Don Ayers, general manager of the casino.

Angelina Listo, chairwoman of the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise said, “It’s very significant to the West Valley and to the Desert Diamond Casino. When the light comes on, it’s a beacon of hope and a vision for the future for all of the West Valley as long as this light can shine.”

For more information, call 623-8777777 or visit ddcaz.com/west-valley.

freeway.

Hammit also stressed, “There’s still a lot of work to be done.”

“All those lawsuits trying to stop the project are done, but there are some concerns on right-of-way, on noise walls we’re working with through our normal process,” he said.

Noise walls and the glare of freeway lights flooding dozens of homes and backyards in the Ahwatukee stretch of the freeway have been an ongoing concern for months – and it’s unclear if, or when, the highway agency will be correcting it.

Also marked for completion next year are two last-minute additions to the project totaling an extra $20 million – interchanges at 32nd Street in Ahwatukee and near Ivanhoe Street near the Vee Quiva Casino on the Gila River Indian Community.

Also slated for completion next year is the 15-to-20-foot-wide multi-use path along six miles of southern side of the Ahwatukee segment of freeway ADOT agreed to build after cyclists and joggers had complained about the loss of flat Pe-

cos Road and its mountain and open desert vistas.

The $1.7-billion freeway is the work of Arizona’s first major public-private partnership between ADOT and a consortium of companies called Connect202Partners.

This partnership used a design-build approach to the freeway with a 30-year maintenance agreement. Connect202Partners is led by Fluor Enterprises Inc., and includes Granite Construction Co., Ames Construction Inc. and Parsons Brinckerhoff Inc. as the lead designer. Additionally, 10 subcontractors had participated in the construction.

Fluor and DBi Services, LLC, will maintain the lanes for 30 years with oversight from ADOT. “The project has turned heads around the industry because its sophisticated alternative delivery package is expected to result in cost savings between $122 and $200 million and bring motorists onto the new freeway about three years ahead of schedule,” said HDR, a general engineering consultant ADOT used for the SEE 202 PAGE 6 AND

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202 FROM PAGE 5

December 26, 2019

It predicted the industrial sector “will feel the most immediate impact.”

“The West Valley has become the epicenter of Phoenix’s industrial market, primarily for logistics operations,” it said, noting the traffic congestion on the I-10 “has been caused by semi-trucks moving goods eastward.”

The Pastor Freeway “will provide another route to access the fast-growing East Valley or reconnect to the I-10 in Chandler while bypassing traffic in and around downtown, Orion said, adding: “Last-mile deliverers will likely view West Valley as a more viable location moving forward Economic impact huge and will feel less pressure Government and private-sector leadto establish operations ers have hailed the project as a vital step somewhere in the East toward completion of the freeway loop Valley. Conversely, logissystem will stimulate massive econom- The Congressman Ed Pastor Freeway (also known as the South Mountain Freeway) connecting east and west valleys tics companies in the East ic development in parts of Phoenix and may open Dec. 20 (Image courtesy ADOT) Valley will have easier access to the West Valley the West Valley. and major metropolitan areas in Cali“Throughout the design-build-main- fornia.” tain lifecycle, South Mountain FreeOrion also has forecast an explosion As cremation has become more popular in recent way is estimated to create about 30,000 in multifamily construction, primarily years, some providers have learned to cut corners.

Unfortunately, this has resulted in a surge of national jobs,” HDR said, indicating it would in areas of south and west Phoenix-like scandals that has put doubt in the minds of families generate $2 billion in economic devel- Laveen and South Mountain, but likely that choose cremation. opment along the entire stretch of the along most of the freeway.

Menke Funeral & Cremation Center is the freeway and beyond.

“Traditionally, most demand here only local funeral provider to offer a 10-step Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels said last comes from single-family homebuyers “We believe in our cremation process backed by our exclusive year, “As an East Valley mayor, I am seeking a suburban lifestyle,” it said. cremation process Cremation with Confidence™ Guarantee. especially excited to see this extension “But the South Mountain will become so much, that From the moment your loved one arrives at our take place from a business perspective. more convenient for renters in need of funeral home, through the cremation process, to the exclusively offer The freeway will provide an economic quick freeway access to major employreturn of the cremated remains to you, your loved one the Cremation development corridor better connect- ment centers in the East Valley.” is well cared for at all times. ing businesses in the East and West It noted Gilbert and Chandler were Confidence™ If your choice is cremation, there is no other choice than Valleys.” basically “farm towns with an abunGuarantee.”

Menke Funeral & Cremation Center. Call us for more “I saw firsthand how the Loop 202/ dance of developable land” until they information about our Cremation with Confidence™ Santan Freeway helped business devel- “were transformed into dynamic ecoGuarantee. opment,” Daniels added. nomic engines in a relatively short peOrion Real Estate Investment said riod of time.” while the freeway would be “a release Orion also forecast significant office Valley View valve for traffic congestion on existing building and retail growth will follow Food Bank Drop off freeways and local streets,” it envisions the resident development.

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U.S.,” Orion said. “It also isn’t often One warehouse project already is on NAME: when a large area becomes ripe for a the books on Gila River Indian ComADDRESS: slew of economic development oppor- munity land at 40th Street and the ramps CITY/STATE/ZIP: tunities for a variety of markets. Phoe- near Ivanhoe Street are being installed PHONE: nix is set to see all of this become a partly to provide “improved access to EMAIL: Of course, there is no cost or obligation. reality when the South Mountain Free- and from the Gila River Indian Comway is finished.” munity west of the freeway.” freeway.

The project was broken into four segments and includes two 2,000-footlong bridges over the Salt River, 15 interchanges, high-occupancy vehicle lanes as well as HOV ramps, five multi-purpose underpasses for wildlife and hikers and the state’s first half-divergent diamond interchanges.

The two half-divergent interchanges are both in Ahwatukee, at Desert Foothills Parkway and 17th Avenue, are patterned after full-divergent diamond interchanges in a handful of other states to improve safety and mobility for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

Along the entire stretch of the freeway, crews installed more than 20 miles of drainage pipe, laid over 107,000 tons of asphalt pavement, moved 9.9 million cubic yards of dirt and used 10,800 tons of rebar manufactured from recycled steel, ADOT said.

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December 26, 2019

Tortured history, worrisome future The South Mountain Freeway, renamed in honor of the late Congressman Ed Pastor in recognition of his work on behalf of many freeway projects in Arizona, was first conceived in 1983 as the Southwest Loop Highway and became more than a wish list item when voters approved the freeway system in 1985.

But it wasn’t until ADOT began buying up homes in Ahwatukee neighborhoods in the early part of this century as part of its right-of-way acquisitions opposition ballooned.

The Gila River Indian Community and a group of Ahwatukee homeowners united as Protect Arizona’s Resources and Children had distinct reasons for fighting the freeway in the form of two federal lawsuits eventually were treated by the courts as one big case.

Native Americans primarily opposed the freeway because it cut through three peaks of South Mountain, which they consider sacred. PARC zeroed in on the environmental impact of all the trucks and cars on children who attended more than a dozen schools along the thoroughfare’s path.

Those environmental concerns also were shared by the Gila River Indian Community, which accused ADOT of running roughshod over sacred burial sites despite ADOT’s assertion it devoted countless hours to carefully examining land in the freeway’s path so no sacred sites were desecrated.

Ahwatukee homeowners near the freeway’s footprint said the tens of thousands of vehicles a day predicted to use the freeway will generate toxic fumes and pose health hazards not only to school children but virtually anyone living there.

“No freeway is worth the destruction of the South Maintain Park and Preserve,” PARC President Patricia Lawlis said last week. “This freeway represents a huge investment for little benefit except for trucking companies is especially reprehensible.”

Both ADOT and the Federal Highway Administration vehemently denied the allegations, contending they had devoted years of analysis to the freeway’s impact on wells, air, noise and nearby parkland and adhered to all federal environmental guidelines, even going beyond the mandate of those guidelines.

The government, tribal and neighborhood parties in the suit filed thousands of briefs and exhibits as opponents tried to stop it.

Peoria Times In August 2016, U.S. District Judge Diane Humetewa’s issued a 35-page decision rejecting all the opponents’ claims and ADOT announced it would immediately begin removing federally protected plants, such as Saguaros, from the freeway path and relocating them in safe areas for replanting once construction was complete.

Thousands of more pages of briefs followed as opponents tried to upend the decision in the Ninth District of the U.S. Court of Appeals.

The fight died there as a panel of judges upheld Humetawa.

But the discontent didn’t die.

The construction triggered numerous complaints by residents, who said crews working almost roundthe-clock were disrupting people’s sleep and extensive blasting cracked foundations and walls on homes and garages, While residential communities near the freeway look with anxiety at what a newly opened freeway will bring to their neighborhood, residents already have been bitterly complaining about unshielded lights and claim a number of residents were forced to buy blackout curtains as their backyards take on the look of a stadium during a night game.

ADOT said it would install light shields, but those shields so far have not been installed.

They also have complained about ADOT’s failure to extend the sound walls along the Ahwatukee portion of the freeway far enough west. ADOT said its decibel studies indicated the wall was not needed in the area because its traffic noise would be below the decibel level and will not go beyond the federally mandated threshold to warrant noise suppression.

The agency said it will revisit the issue next year as traffic begins pouring onto the freeway.

But while resentment among some people is drowned out by praise for the project, one thing is clear: The freeway will likely be open by Christmas and bring with it a new world to thousands of people in many different forms.

ADOT spokesman Tom Herrmann told the Peoria Times, “The freeway is expected to open to traffic in the coming week, following the Dec. 18 media event with Governor Ducey and other local leaders.”

Once safety checks were finalized, the new freeway officially opened on Saturday.

NEWS

7

Changes coming to the way MVD issues plates, tabs and documents

BY PEORIA TIMES STAFF

The new year will usher in a new way for Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division customers to get license plates, registration tabs and many documents such as vehicle titles.

Beginning in January, customers will receive these items through the U.S. Mail and will no longer be able to obtain them at an MVD or authorized third-party office. Customers should make sure their address is current and complete with the U.S. Postal Service and MVD. “The MVD needs to be well-positioned for the growth of e-commerce,” said MVD Stakeholder Relations Manager Jennifer Bowser Richards. “Distributing items such as license plates, tabs, title work and other documents allows us to prepare for the growing demand for fulfilling customer orders through the mail as MVD continues to increase the number of services available online, anytime.”

All registration documents and license plate tabs, including those issued today at MVD self-service kiosks will be mailed.

When customers renew, their record is updated instantly and a receipt will be proof of registration.

For customers getting a license plate, the change will also mean the plate number will be entered into the customer’s service file and the temporary plate issued at the office will have the same number as the permanent plate being mailed.

Customers who purchase off-highway vehicle decals the same day they plan to use them at a recreational area will not receive the decal at the office, but will get a receipt that should be kept with them to prove the decals have been purchased.

In the future, more vehicle titles will transition to an electronic process. Currently, a limited number of title transfers such as one-owner to one-owner transfers of Arizona-registered vehicles can already be done entirely online through AZ MVD Now, which is available through ServiceArizona.com.

For more information, click the MVD System Changes link at azdot.gov/mvd.

8

Peoria Times

NEWS

December 26, 2019

Dec. 31 deadline for most retirees to take required minimum distributions

BY PEORIA TIMES STAFF According to the Internal Revenue Service, retirees born before July 1, 1949, usually must take distributions from their retirement plans by Dec. 31.

The payments, called required minimum distributions (RMDs), are normally made by the end of the year.

Those who turned 70½ in 2019 are allowed to wait until April 1, 2020, to take their first RMDs. The special April 1 deadline only applies to the RMD for the first year. For all subsequent years, the RMD must be made by Dec. 31. For example, a taxpayer who is 70½ in 2018 and receives the first RMD on April 1, 2019, must receive a second RMD by Dec. 31, 2019.

The required distribution rules apply to: • Owners of traditional Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs).

• Owners of traditional Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) IRAs. • Owners of Savings Incentive Match Plans for Employees (SIMPLE) IRAs. • Participants in various workplace retirement plans, including 401(k), 403(b) and 457(b) plans.

For most taxpayers, life expectancy used 70 82 94 106 71 83 95 107 to calculate the RMD 72 84 96 108 73 85 97 109 is based on Table III 74 86 98 110 75 87 99 111 (Uniform Lifetime 76 88 100 112 77 89 101 113 Table) in Publication 78 90 102 114 590-B, Distributions 115 and 79 91 103 19.5 10.8 5.2 1.9 over from IRAs. For ex80 92 104 18.7 10.2 4.9 81 93 105 17.9 9.6 4.5 ample, it shows that for a taxpayer who The Internal Revenue Service has worksheets for Required Minimum Deductions (RMDs) at irs.gov. (Image courtesy IRS) turned 72 in 2019, the required distribution is Roth IRAs don’t require distributions based on a life expectancy of 25.6 years. while the original owner is alive.

Table II applies to a taxpayer whose An IRA trustee, or plan adminis- spouse is more than 10 years younger trator, must report the amount of the and is the taxpayer’s only beneficiary.

RMD to the IRA owner. Alternatively, The trustee reports the year-end acan IRA trustee may offer to calculate count value to the IRA owner on Form the amount of the RMD for the owner. 5498, IRA Contribution Information, An IRA owner, or trustee, must cal- in Box 5. culate the RMD separately for each Individuals can use online workIRA owned. However, they can choose sheets on IRS.gov to figure the RMD. to withdraw the total amount from The worksheets can also be found in one or more of the IRAs. In contrast, RMDs required from workplace retirement plans must be taken separately from each account.

The RMD is based on the taxpayer’s life expectancy and their account balance.

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Age

Distribution Period 17.1 16.3 15.5 14.8 14.1 13.4 12.7 12.0 11.4

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the Appendices to Publication 590-B. Often, a trustee will use Form 5498, box 12b, to report the RMD to the recipient. In that case, a recipient can find their 2019 RMD on the 2018 Form 5498. The 2018 Form 5498 is normally issued to the owner during January 2019.

RMD rules are mandatory for all owners of traditional, SEP and SIMPLE IRAs and participants in workplace retirement plans. However, some people in workplace plans can wait longer to receive their RMDs. If their plan allows, current employees can wait until April 1 of the year following retirement to start taking RMDs, regardless of their age.

However, there may be tax consequences to doing so. See Tax on Excess Accumulations in Publication 575, Pension and Annuity Income.

Find more information on RMDs, including answers to frequently asked questions, on IRS.gov.

Skate Westgate brings winter wonderland to the West Valley

SUN CITY west

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Distribution Period 9.1 8.6 8.1 7.6 7.1 6.7 6.3 5.9 5.5

and you’ll be entered into a drawing for a weekend round of golf for you and 3 friends

BY ERIC NEWMAN

Glendale Star Staff Writer

Westgate Entertainment District celebrates the winter even with Glendale’s comparatively-balmy holiday season.

Skate Westgate is the West Valley’s only outdoor rink with real ice. It is 3,500 square feet and allows people of all experience levels to strap on skates and enjoy a bit of cold in a safe environment.

“We wanted to create an unforgettable winter wonderland for West Valley residents to come and enjoy this season, which includes our holiday tree lighting ceremony, horse-drawn carriage rides, visits with Santa, and of course, Skate Westgate,” said Alex Doan, marketing coordinator at Yam Properties, which operates the rink.

“It’s very exciting to make ice skating in the desert a reality, especially not having extremely cold weather conditions. But, we always manage to make the impossible, possible. We also invite all skill levels to come and join us on the rink, which is always fun to see.”

Skate Westgate, Doan said, provides many visitors with their first attempt at strapping the skates on and hitting the ice. There are also several people she has come to know over the years, as they are

often the first to hit the ice when it opens, coming consistently until it closes down for the spring.

While there are regular participants she says every year, there is nothing quite like seeing a first-timer learn the skills and begin to enjoy themselves, with the assistance of several helpful teachers and staff.

“Despite the initial hurdle of adjusting to the ice, we find skaters have fun learning and figuring out the proper techniques to glide safely, while still having fun,” Doan said.

The rink is not just a fun experience for hundreds of customers every season.

The businesses surrounding the area, especially restaurants and bars, love Skate Westgate, too.

Whether just needed to refuel after the exercise, or simply wanting a hot drink after spending time in the cold, the locals are appreciative of the extra foot traffic.

“Westgate tenants love the influx of customers and they are always ready to accommodate skaters before and after they hit the ice with plenty of delicious food options and festive beverages,” Doan said.

Skate Westgate is open every day until Sunday, Jan. 12. For more information visit westgateaz.com/skate/.

Peoria Times

December 26, 2019

NEWS

9

New federal law helps aid fight against animal cruelty

BY AMY-XIAOSHI DePAOLA Cronkite News

Arizona ranks high on the list of “most humane states,” but officials and animal advocates are still welcoming a new federal law they said will let them fight animal cruelty crossing state lines.

“Our officers investigate thousands of animal cruelty cases each year, but have been unable to truly bring justice for the animals in instances when the cruelty occurs across multiple jurisdictions,” said Chris Schindler, Humane Rescue Alliance’s vice president of field services, in an email.

President Trump in late November signed the Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture (PACT) Act, a bipartisan measure expanding on a 2010 law banning the creation and distribution of “animal crush videos” – any image showing animals being “intentionally crushed, burned, drowned, suffocated, impaled, or otherwise subjected to serious bodily injury.”

The 2019 version, introduced in January by Rep. Ted Deutch, D-Fla., and Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., makes animal crushing itself a crime punishable by a fine or up to seven years in prison or both. It passed the House in October and was approved by the Sen-

ate earlier this month, both times by voice vote.

Schindler called the act “a monumental step” to laying groundwork to further protect animals, particularly in dealing with interstate animal cruelty.

Bretta Nelson, public relations manager of the Arizona Humane Society, said the bill will “expand awareness of animal cruelty on a national level” and hold abusers accountable.

It comes as the Arizona Humane Society has seen a 3.9% increase in animal cruelty reports this year over last year. Nelson attributed in part to HB. 2671, a state law took effect in August stiffening penalties for knowingly mistreating or killing a domestic animal from a class 6 to a class 5 felony, which carries up to two years in prison.

The bill was the result of a four-year Humane Society effort and a “huge win for Valley animals and for the state of Arizona,” Nelson said.

She said there’s already a case under the stricter law involving a pug, Miso, was hanged by his owner, who shared videos of the abuse from his cell phone. That prompted the Humane Society to take in the dog, which had suffered multiple injuries including a broken pelvis and ribs.

Kellye Pinkleton, the Humane Society’s senior state director in Arizona, said the state also toughened animal cruelty laws last year and approved a ban on wildlife killing contests in September.

Pinkleton hopes those changes can help boost Arizona from its current spot of ninth, tied with Maine, on the Humane Society of the United States’ list of the most-humane states in 2018. When it released those rankings, however, the Humane Society of the United States said Arizona needed to work on farm animal cruelty, hunting restrictions, animal research and puppy mill abuses, and requiring state emergency response plans to include pets.

Amanda Ventura, spokeswoman for the Arizona Animal Welfare League, said there still is room for improvement in the law. She and Nelson would like to see the state take stronger action against so-called “puppy mills” and improve the definition of adequate care when it comes to food and water standards for animals.

ROC271236

Banner Health acquires an orthopedic practice

BY PEORIA TIMES STAFF Banner Health announced the acquisition of Phoenix Orthopedic Consultants, a physician practice located in Glendale. As a result of the acquisition, four orthopedic surgeons and one certified nurse practitioner have joined Banner Health’s medical group.

Doctors joining Banner Health include Marc Rosen, Kishore Tipirneni, Jonathan Landsman and Stephen Ripple.

They will practice out of two office locations in the West Valley and will perform surgeries at Banner Health surgery centers and Banner Thunderbird Medical Center.

“We are thrilled to have these prominent and well-respected community providers join our employed medical group,” said Dr. Patrick Rankin, chief executive officer of Banner Medical

Group. “This group has been serving the West Valley community for more than 40 years, and we look forward to having them continue this great care with Banner Health.”

Clinic locations include 5757 W. Thunderbird Road, Suite W310, Glendale and 18699 N. 67th Avenue, Suite 120, Glendale.

To schedule an appointment or for more information, call 602-298-8888.

Headquartered in Arizona, Banner Health is one of the largest nonprofit health care systems in the country. The system owns and operates 28 acutecare hospitals, long-term care centers, outpatient surgery centers and an array of other services; including Banner Urgent Care, family clinics, home care and hospice services, pharmacies and a nursing registry.

“Our law enforcement professionals’ hands are tied in many cases due to lax laws,” Ventura said.

Nelson said the Arizona Humane Society mainly sees cases of animals without water, shelter or welfare checks, as well as being stabbed, shot or left in hot cars.

“As awareness of these laws increase across the country, people will think twice before inflicting harm upon an animal,” she said. “This will be a national discussion for animals who have no voice.”

The PACT Act had more than 300 co-sponsors, including six from Arizona: Republican Reps. Debbie Lesko of Peoria and David Schweikert of Fountain Hills, and Democratic Reps. Raul Grijalva and Ann Kirkpatrick of Tucson, Tom O’Halleran of Sedona and Ruben Gallego of Phoenix.

“I am proud to support this legislation will protect animals from inhumane treatment and punish those who choose to exhibit such repulsive acts,” Schweikert said in a statement after the bill passed the House.

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Peoria Times

10 NEWS TOP 19 FROM PAGE 3

Ordway, 43, is a former Sun Valley Elementary School teacher arrested on May 14.

the facility, they were rocked by an explosion that hospitalized them.

Capt. Hunter Clare, Engineer Justin Lopez and firefighters Matt Cottini and Jake Ciulla were injured. Lopez sustained nose, skull, rib, right-leg tibia and fibula fractures as well as a collapsed lung. Clare suffered bilateral ankle and thoracic fractures, a possible wrist fracture, multiple burns and lacerations, and a scapula injury.

The explosion at a Surprise substation injured four other firefighters from Surprise.

APS has not released a final report on the cause of the explosion.

Music murder Michael Paul Adams allegedly stabbed to death Elijah Al-Amin in July at a Peoria Circle K because the 17-year-old was listening to rap music.

Adams was released from prison two days before Al-Amin was killed.

Safe city A WalletHub survey said Peoria was the 15th “safest city in America.”

Perhaps even more impressive than the national ranking is how Peoria rates

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Firefighters hurt Four firefighters from the Peoria Fire-Medical Department were injured at an APS substation explosion in April.

Moments after the Peoria firefighters responded to a smoke call and entered

Lesko goes big Republican Rep. Debbie Lesko, D-Ariz., returned to her Peoria home this week after a few days that catapulted her into a national figure.

She said, “Democrats are tearing this country apart” speech during the impeachment proceedings made her a hero to some, villain to others.

How she played at home will be seen in 2020, as Lesko is up for re-election.

113th Ave

After Peoria Police arrested Ordway at the school, he was charged with five counts of child molestation and one count of sexual abuse of minors.

Ordway is scheduled to go to trial April 16. He faces 24 charges against a dozen alleged child victims. His offenses allegedly took place over a decade.

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locally. Analyzing FBI statistics show Peoria among the safest of Valley cities, with a violent crime rate far lower than the likes of Glendale and Tempe.

Special election Denette Dunn won a special election to Peoria City Council in August.

Dunn assumed the seat temporarily when late Councilman Carlo Leone resigned due to health reasons this spring.

Dunn’s opponent, Randal “RJ” Rains, dropped out of the race. Dunn won in a landslide over write-in candidate Cordero Delgadillo, who later unsuccessfully filed a lawsuit, saying the city treated him unfairly.

Hero Michael Parks of the Peoria Fire Department rushed into a burning home on Aug. 25.

Through thick smoke, he found an unconscious, elderly woman gasping for breath. Parks carried her out of the home and helped get her to a hospital.

For his life-saving effort, the Peoria Fire Department named Parks Firefighter of the Year.

The movies The Peoria Film Fest not only returned for a second year, it went big, expanding its schedule by a good deal over its 2018 debut.

“There is absolutely a potential for an economic impact, but for Peoria, it’s beyond ticket sales and restaurant sales,” Peoria Mayor Cathy Carlat said.

The festival wisely partnered with Huntington University, which launches young directors and producers with its film program.

December 26, 2019

DVUSD boundaries Proposed Deer Valley Unified School District boundary changes may impact Peoria families.

Some elementary school students may go to Boulder Creek High School in Anthem, rather than Sandra Day O’Connor, if the changes are finalized.

A few parents at meetings said this could lead to transportation nightmares, with siblings going to different high schools.

DVUSD is expected to announce final decisions in mid-January.

McCain Memorial On Veterans Day, the city of Peoria unveiled an expanded Senator John McCain Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza. A ceremony took place at the Peoria Veterans Memorial in Rio Vista Community Park.

The memorial includes a 1967 Bell UH-1H Huey helicopter flown in Vietnam.

Grand Canyon death Peoria resident Cynthia Ackley, 69, died after a fall at the Grand Canyon National Park.

Two others died at the park from falls this year.

Growth Like much of the rest of the West Valley, Peoria continued to experience strong growth, which new housing developments popping up around the city.

The city is boosting growth, with a request for proposals for a mixed residential-business development, to be located at P83.

New supe Dr. Jason Reynolds was selected in December to become Peoria Unified School District’s next superintendent.

Reynolds is the current PUSD deputy superintendent. He will replace Linda Palles Thompson, who four months ago announced she will retire at the end of this school year.

Concierge To try to stay ahead of business growth, the city of Peoria launched a Business Concierge program, “to strengthen the city’s business partnership.” It helps businesses navigate planning and city codes.

WESTMARC gave the Peoria Business Concierge program a Best of the West award for Excellence in Innovation.

Coach arrested Mountain Ridge High School coach Vincent Ciliberti was arrested Feb. 1 on charges of attempting to have sex with a 14-year-old.

Ciliberti faces charges of luring a minor for sexual exploitation with a trial scheduled Feb. 10, 2020 at Maricopa County Superior Court.

Improper snooping Amaury Fernandez, a former Peoria Police officer, was charged with improperly accessing a database.

He is accused of looking up information on a woman his friend wanted to date. Fernandez resigned from the police department while the investigation was ongoing.

Peoria Times

December 26, 2019

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OPINION

December 26, 2019

For more opinions visit peoriatimes.com PeoriaTimes.com

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Volunteers, donations create a Gilbert ‘miracle’

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ

can we do this in Arizona?’”

Sheldahl recalled. “Maybe a month later, David and two of his board members flew out.”

“That was February of ‘16.

By September 2016, we had a building. March 1, 2017, one year and 18 days (after the visit), we opened serving 30 agencies.”

Today, not even three years later, Midwest Food Bank Arizona serves more than 290 partner agencies – food pantries, school and church groups, homeless ministries, you name it – across Arizona.

In 2019, the miracle on Baseline Road will distribute more than $19 million in food and goods to help out needy families all over the state.

The truly miraculous thing, at least to me: Everything is donated, from the canned goods and pasta and produce to

Peoria Times Columnist

The miracle on Baseline Road in Gilbert began with a phone call.

It was late 2014 and Eric and Mary Sheldahl, transplants to Chandler from Iowa, were looking for a worthy organization to make a charitable contribution.

Scanning Charity Navigator, Eric happened across an Illinois-based non-profit called Midwest Food Bank.

Impressed by their low overhead, Sheldahl donated. His telephone soon rang. It was David Keiser, founder of Midwest Food Bank.

“That just registered with me,” said Sheldahl, “because you don’t get thank you calls anymore.”

Fast forward a year. Again, the Sheldahls donated. Again, Keiser called in gratitude.

“In our conversation, I said, “How

the food boxes, 18-wheelers and truck drivers dispatched almost daily from the 26,800-square-foot warehouse in Gilbert near Baseline and Mesa Drive.

Most days, MFB Arizona is teeming with volunteers – there’s no age limit – from residents who want to do good to companies, like State Farm and Bank of America, that bring in employee groups for team building and a chance to do good in the community.

MFB Arizona volunteers will log more than 30,000 donated hours this year.

All because of a phone call.

Sheldahl, 68 years old and a man of deep Christian faith, has given up the real estate development business to run the Arizona operation full-time – as a volunteer, naturally. He’s also on the national board of directors for Midwest Food Bank these days.

Nationally, MFB operates in Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Texas, Georgia and Florida, plus locations in East Africa and Haiti.

All told, the organization donated nearly $240 million in aid to the needy last year.

Not bad for a non-profit founded in 2003 out of a shed on David Keiser’s family farm.

How can you help? Glad you asked.

You can give your time or drop off food.

You can go to midwestfoodbank.org/ donate/donation-opportunities and send cash, a vehicle, stock or gift cards. Or you can take advantage of the Arizona charitable tax credit up to $800 for couples or $400 for individual filers.

Just make your donation to MFB Arizona, claim the tax credit when you file and you can effectively send your tax dollars to Midwest Food Bank instead of the government.

With only a couple of pennies’ overhead for every dollar given, Eric and Mary Sheldahl and the volunteers at 725 E. Baseline Road in Gilbert will make miracles happen with such a donation.

Agencies, families and our neighbors in need will be the better for it.

“Everybody has an expiration date, just like food, but there’s also a ‘best use by’ date,” Eric said. “Mary and I feel like we are in our ‘best use by’ date here and we want to do all we can to give back and be a part of what God has so divinely put together. We just love it.”

Who wouldn’t? Miracles are rare these days, except in a warehouse on Baseline Road.

David Leibowitz has called the Valley home since 1995. Contact david@leibowitzsolo.com.

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Peoria Times

December 26, 2019

OPINION

13

Expanding employer-driven health insurance better than Medicare for All

BY JANET TRAUTWEIN Guest Writer

Most Americans like private health insurance. Fifty-six percent of voters oppose Medicare for All if it eliminates private coverage.

Many moderate lawmakers are well aware of these polling figures. So they’re calling for an expanded version of Medicare or the creation of a new government-run plan to compete against private insurers.

All these approaches Medicare for All, Medicare for All Who Want It, or a public option would be disastrous.

Each would raise taxes, reduce quality of care, and eliminate the private health coverage that most consumers have, like, and expect to keep.

Start with Medicare for All. The general concept extending government-funded coverage to all Americans -- polls well. About half of Americans give it the thumbs-up, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation.

That majority support turns to opposition once people learn Medicare for All would ban private insurance. The

plan grants the federal government a monopoly on health insurance no private insurers or employers would be permitted to pay for health benefits.

People are big fans of private insurance. Seven in ten Americans say they’re satisfied with the coverage they receive through work. That’s a lot -more than 180 million Americans have employer-sponsored insurance.

The “public option” aims to assuage fears by allowing people who have employer-sponsored coverage to keep it and giving those who don’t an alternative.

But like Medicare for All, a public option would lead to the destruction of the private insurance market. It’d just do so more slowly.

Most public option proposals envision reimbursing hospitals and doctors at Medicare’s rates, which are artificially low. In 2017, for every dollar hospitals spent caring for Medicare patients, they received only 87 cents in reimbursement.

Those lower costs allow the public option to charge less than commercial

insurers, which don’t have the power to underpay providers.

Many Americans would switch from private insurance to the public option.

As they did so, hospitals and doctors would raise prices for the privately insured to compensate. Insurers would be forced to hike premiums in response.

That would compel even more individuals to switch.

Employers would surely do the same, dropping benefits programs and encouraging workers to enroll in the public plan. A recent study from KNG Health Consulting found that Medicare for America a proposal that would transfer everyone who doesn’t receive coverage through an employer to a government-run plan would cause one in four workers to lose access to employer-sponsored insurance by 2023. More than half of employees at small businesses would lose their employer-sponsored coverage.

Eventually, the public option would be the only option.

As Seema Verma, administrator of

the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, put it, “The public option is a Trojan horse” for Medicare for All. Americans would suffer under government-run health care. Robert Pollin an economist at the University of Massachusetts Amherst estimates that 2 million jobs across hospitals, healthcare facilities, and the insurance industry could disappear.

A report from the Congressional Budget Office concluded that Medicare for All could “lead to a shortage of providers, longer wait times, and changes in the quality of care.”

That’s a lot of disruption to a health insurance system that works well for most people.

It’d be far simpler and more popular to expand access to coverage through our existing private, employer-driven system than to launch a government takeover of health insurance.

Janet Trautwein is CEO of the National Association of Health Underwriters (nahu.org).

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Peoria Times

14 BUSINESS

December 26, 2019

For more business visit peoriatimes.com PeoriaTimes.com

BY TOM SCANLON

Peoria Times Managing Editor

More medical services should be coming soon to Peoria.

Space is available in what is advertised (on loopnet.com) as “the largest non-hospital medical campus in Arizona.”

/PeoriaTimes

Business Briefcase

Six suites are being leased at Plaza Del Rio Medical Center, 13260 N. 94th Drive.

Key features, according to the ad: “Heavily parked for medical with easy patient accessibility to all suites.

“Building and street monument signage available.

“Close proximity to three hospitals: Arrowhead, Boswell and Banner Thunderbird “Highly visible profile in Peoria, Sun City and Glendale.”

The space is being leased

by Plaza Companies, 602616-8177.

Space is available in what is billed as “the largest non-hospital medical campus in Arizona.” (Photo courtesy Plaza Companies)

•While it was almost lost in last week’s impeachment hoopla, a bit of business in congress might have been more important to West Valley businesses.

The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) passed in the House of Representatives by an overwhelming margin (385-41). It goes on to the Senate.

Rep. Debbie Lesko, R-District 8, was one of many who voted for it.

“The USMCA is a big win for the state of Arizona,” she said. “Although I am disappointed it took Speaker (Nancy) Pelosi over a year to bring the USMCA to the floor for a vote, I am glad we could finally secure this victory for Arizona and the United States.”

She said the USMCA Implementing will mean “176,000 jobs, higher

wages, and $68 billion in economic growth.

•Zoomtown Lights continues at ISM Raceway, 7602 S. Avondale Boulevard, Avondale.

Check out the light show from 6 to 10 nightly through New Year’s Eve. •A “Lighten Your Workload” workshop will be held at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 30 at Codobe, 12211 W Bell Road, Surprise.

The workshop is recommended for people who respond “yes” to the following questions: Do you spend much of your time on tedious daily tasks you wish you could get the computer to do for you?

Do you wish you had processes in place to make your day go by more smoothly or be able to delegate tasks?

The cost of the workshop is $10. For information, call 623-215-4339.

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Peoria Times

December 26, 2019

Peoria Chamber of Commerce sponsors local families this holiday season

BY ERIC NEWMAN

Peoria Times Staff Writer

Peoria Unified School District members, local business owners and Peoria Chamber of Commerce representatives joined together on Dec. 12 to celebrate the holiday season and provide joy to a group of local students and their loved ones in need.

tive trees, wreaths and lights, filling the area that had activities like decorating custom cookies and gaining information on local businesses who had set up booths.

Huntington University hosted Christmas movies on big screens for kids indoors. A local rock band played a set to promote the cause.

In the celebration of both Christmas and fun, the star of the show was a pair of miniature horses dressed up in festive costumes.

“They are seriously so cute. I love them,” Duke said.

While there was no estimate given on the final number of gifts or the amount of money raised for the families, the

Miniature horses dressed up in holiday outfits were a main attraction in the Peoria Chamber of Commerce event on Dec. 12.

(Peoria Times Photo by Eric Newman)

The Chamber met at its office, in association with the local Huntington University campus, to “adopt” 40 families of Peoria Unified School District students for the holidays. The students were given gifts and support in what can be a difficult part of the year for some.

“We got assigned the students from the district,” said Justeena Duke, Chamber event coordinator.

“At the chamber we want to do things like this to give back. For me personally it just feels good to be able to help.”

Decorations included typical holiday fair such as fes-

Peoria Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Scot Andrews speaks on Dec. 12 (Peoria Times Photo by Eric Newman)

event was a success for all parties involved.

As Peoria continues its growth, both the chamber and district hope to have a friendly partnership for years to come.

“We’re part of this community, and we appreciate what the district does for the kids here,” said Chamber President Scot Andrews. “So, we are looking forward to working together again.”

BUSINESS

15

16

Peoria Times

SPORTS

December 26, 2019

For more sports visit peoriatimes.com PeoriaTimes.com

/PeoriaTimes

Chychrun helps Coyotes howl to first place

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Peoria Times Executive Editor

Jakob Chychrun says the heartbreaking end to the Arizona Coyotes’ 20182019 season fueled the fire to make the current one a success.

“We knew we had a good thing going here and we were capable of a lot more,” he said after a recent practice.

“It wasn’t what anybody wanted, and we were just excited to come into this season with a lot of the same guys with a couple of big additions.”

The 21-year-old defenseman is speaking of right-winger Phil Kessel, who was moved from the Pittsburgh Penguins to the Coyotes in June. Near the season’s halfway point, the Coyotes were tied for first place in the Pacific Division.

The energy on the ice is renewed, but Chychrun looks beyond that.

“I see it in the fans, too, and the new ownership,” he said. “Everything just seems to be clicking right now. Hopefully, we’ll keep it up.”

Chychrun and the rest of the Coyotes have upped the ante off the ice. The team and the Arizona Coyotes Foundation invested $3.4 million into the Valley community this past fiscal year. The investment reached numerous Arizona nonprofit organizations, schools, community partners and youth hockey groups.

“This is my fourth year with the team and each year it seems like we’re doing a little more,” Chychrun said.

“It’s really important to the team and to the management and everything. We

Jakob Chychrun grew up in Florida and played hockey as a child in and around Detroit. (Photo courtesy Getty Images)

do a few trips every year that really hit home for me. I love visiting Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Every time we go there, it’s very rewarding to see the joy we can bring in such a small period of time. There are little things that just go a long way for us. It just goes to show you that this is bigger than hockey.”

Charity and a sense of community were instilled in Chychrun by his parents. He was born and raised in Boca Raton, Florida, the son of Nancy Chy-

The Arizona Coyotes chose Chychrun in the first round, 16th overall, in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. In June of that year, he inked a three-year, NHL entry-level contract. His first goal came on October 20 against the Montreal Canadiens.

In August 2017, he had knee surgery for an injury he sustained during off-season training. The following off-season Jacob Chychrun, left, and defenseman Alex Goligoski celebrate a didn’t bode well, either, goal. (Photo courtesy Getty Images) as he tore his ACL. In the fall of 2018, he signed a chrun and former NFL defenseman six-year, $27.6 million contract extenJeff Chychrun. sion.

“They always preached community Besides volunteering, Chychrun enwork,” he said. “When my sister and joys the outdoor lifestyle in Arizona.

I were young, they would bring us to “We’re lucky enough to play hockey nursing homes and we would just hang in Arizona,” he said. “We try to take out to try and brighten their day. advantage of the water. I’m pretty out“We wouldn’t even know anyone doors-y. I love to golf. I love to fish.” there. Looking back, that was pretty Those sorts of activities allow Chycool.” chrun to relax and not get burned out.

Hockey is Chychrun’s lifelong ambi“I think by the end of the year, evtion. He started playing hockey in Flor- eryone’s burned out, to be honest,” he ida, and then joined the Little Caesars said. “We’re a little burned out. But hockey organization in Detroit. we take advantage of the off days. Our In 2013, he moved to Toronto to play coaches all played, so they’re aware of for the Toronto Jr. Canadiens. The fol- how tired we can get out there. lowing year, he was the Sarnia (Ontar“It’s such a long year—82 games is io, Canada) Sting’s first-round selec- long and hard on our bodies. At the end tion and was nominated for the Ontario of the day, we want to win so bad and Hockey League’s Rookie of the Year. it takes over.”

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Peoria Times

SPORTS

17

GCU, others work to secure prospects for new esports programs

BY WARREN YOUNGER Cronkite News

Schools take different approaches to recruiting for their esports programs because there is no defined standard. Esports didn’t exist 20 years ago.

For Arizona universities, their methods run the gamut.

Grand Canyon University has a wide range of tools to bring in prospective esports athletes, with a state-of-the-art facility stocked with top-of-the-line gaming computers and a stage resembling those used in national tournaments. The on-campus Esports Arena has been a huge asset for the recruitment process, said Albert Lee, GCU’s esports director.

“Very few schools have a facility of this caliber in North America and by having one we are establishing ourselves as a pioneer in collegiate esports,” Lee said.

“This space is definitely a huge draw for students coming to GCU.” Along with the facility, GCU also offers scholarships for their top players. Some recently placed fifth at the Overwatch Collegiate Championship, sponsored by ESPN and hosted in Austin, Texas, which also can be used to attract students.

GCU has the arena, scholarships and the recent winning tradition that are vital to attracting traditional athletes. But the school isn’t interested in attracting the best of the best. Its goal is to find everyone who’s interested in esports, even if the athlete doesn’t hope to go pro.

“Scholarships only draw out the top 1%,” Lee said. “What about the 99% of people who just want to play casually?

We are trying to attract all students of all backgrounds and all skill levels, not just the top 1% or a select few.”

GCU is an anomaly in Arizona. Collegiate esports are still in its earliest stages, and few universities are as on board. But schools can still be successful without university support.

The University of Arizona and Arizona State are proof that a university can have one of the top esports programs in the country without a facility, a director or scholarships. UArizona, with no institutional support, took home the 2018 Collegiate Rocket League national championship, and ASU is consistently at the top of national power rankings across multiple esports. A program can achieve greatness solely by recruiting students

already on campus, said Jake Matson, president of ASU Esports.

“I have a hard time recruiting because I can’t offer a player money to come play,” Matson said. “I kind of have to rely on the fact that there are 100,000 students that go to ASU. By theory of numbers, I’m going to get 12 players that are really good at Overwatch.”

ASU also is an anomaly, as one of the biggest universities in the world. As a result, the esports program has an enormous pool of local talent. In addition, although ASU doesn’t have the bells and whistles that attract players to a school like GCU, the Sun Devils do have a history of winning they can rely upon.

“It’s hard looking at players and saying, ‘I can’t offer you money or provide you equipment,’” Matson said. “But I can tell them that my program is, bar none, one of the best.”

Meanwhile, though ASU and GCU have succeeded for different reasons, both leveraged the preexisting interest on their campus. For a new school, entering the esports game requires fostering that interest first.

That’s the situation that small Benedictine University, with a campus in Mesa, faces. Despite sharing many of the perks

GCU offers, esports director Dan Artt said the goal of scholarships and practice facilities isn’t just to keep existing players around. Instead, they’re used to draw players to Benedictine in the first place.

“We are a smaller school,” Artt said.

“Maybe we do have to offer an incentive to have students come here.”

Arrt’s recruiting plan is two-fold. His first goal is to tap into the school’s student body to find potential esports athletes who haven’t been discovered yet. The next step is to create relationships with high schools in the area to identify prospective team members and provide them a pathway to the program.

“Imagine being so talented in your high school career in esports that we can scout and size you up on paper,” Arrt said. “Maybe one day we are paying for students’ entire education through esports. That’s incredible.”

All of the tactics used at Benedictine, GCU and ASU all have different ways to approach recruitment, but leaders at each school said their hopes for collegiate esports are the same. They want the space to become big enough that they can someday recruit using the same methods as big universities do when pursuing talent for traditional sports programs.

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Peoria Times

December 26, 2019

Tackle this: Decline in youth football participation raises questions about future

BY MATTHEW ROY Cronkite News

Before most players in the National Football League wore a pro jersey, they had to put on a college jersey. Before they wore college colors, they probably donned a high school jersey. Before that, many wore youth football jerseys.

That unbroken progression has existed for generations, but lifelong players are becoming more of an anomaly than the norm.

Participation in tackle football has declined dramatically over the past 10 years for many reasons, most predominantly player health. With high school participation dropping to its lowest point since 2000 according to the National Federation of State High School Associations, youth tackle football numbers are most concerning to those with a vested interest in the game.

For football to make a comeback and secure its spot at the top of the American sports food chain, experts say it has to adapt by making changes to safety, equipment, legislation and manner of play.

The problem that youth and high school tackle football face is the increased prevalence of head injuries and the multiple unknowns of impact on a youth brain, which will require further research, said Dr. Anikar Chhabra, director of sports medicine at Mayo Clinic Arizona.

“The long-term effects of head injuries and repetitive head injuries starting at a young age are a little bit more unknown than the adult who gets a head injury,” Chhabra said. “The unknown is what happens with repetitive head drama. We know there’s an effect, but we can’t really prove it.”

Muhammad Oliver, 50, spent five years in the NFL playing for five teams, and four years in the Arena Football League playing for the Arizona Rattlers. Oliver still believes football is the ultimate team game and teaches youth skills that translate off the field.

“When you’re in a work environment, you have co-workers that you depend on to get a project done. Well, it’s the same thing in football,” Oliver said. “Our defensive backs have to rely on our linebackers and defensive line. Our receivers rely on our quarterback and offensive line. Everybody relies on each other. And you realize how important it is that everybody does their job, including you in order for the team to be successful.”

Oliver’s son, Isaiah, is a cornerback for

the Atlanta Falcons, but Muhammad Oliver said he will not let his younger children play tackle football until they are at least 12 years old.

Oliver said his 5-year-old and 8-yearold ask him all the time if they can play tackle before they turn 12, to which he says, “Yeah, it’s not happening. Nope, not happening.”

He’s not alone.

In September, the NFSHSA witnessed its first decline in high school sports participation in 30 years. The number fell from about 7.98 million to about 7.94 million – a 43,395 difference – with football the biggest contributor to the decline.

According to the NFSHSA, participation in high school football dropped by nearly 31,000 participants to about 1.006 million, which is the lowest mark since the 1.002 million mark in the 1999-2000 school year.

In spite of the drop-in participants, the number of schools that carry traditional 11-man football teams rose. For context, the average number of boys on a high school football team was 79 a decade ago. Now, the average is about 70.

From 2006-2017, the number of people of all ages participating in tackle football dropped from 8.4 million to 5.22 million – a 37.8 percent decrease.

The decrease began around the time that head injuries, like concussions and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), came to the forefront of neurological medicine, specifically relating to tackle football.

In 2005, pathologist Dr. Bennet Omalu published a study about CTE, a degenerative brain disease caused by repeated concussive and subconcussive blows to the head. Omalu battled with football advocates and the National Football League over the validity of the study and CTE. His findings are now internationally recognized.

Omalu’s story became the 2015 movie “Concussion.” The most precipitous drops in football participation came in the years after the movie’s release.

“Now I see a lot of my friends (who played in the NFL) going through a lot of injuries and memory loss and all kinds of stuff like that,” Oliver said.

The increased awareness of head injuries had a significant impact on the game of football. It made parents such as Aneesha Sullivan fear for their children’s safety.

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Peoria Times

December 26, 2019

Saturday

28

Glow

Peoria Times publishes on Thursday. The 9 Days a Week calendar — a listing of entertainment events such as concerts, theatrical performances, events for schools, churches, county parks and nonprofit groups — runs every issue.

Events must be open to the public to be considered and generally must be held within the Times’ coverage area, which is within the city of Peoria.

9 Days a Week calendar items print on a space-available basis. The only way to guarantee that an item will print is to purchase an advertisement.

Submissions must reach our office by 4 p.m. Thursday to be considered for the following Thursday publication. Submissions must be in writing and may be emailed to Rachel Hagerman, rhagerman@timespublications.com, or faxed to 623-935-2103.

Thursday

26

Scrabble

Play a game of Scrabble at 12:30 p.m. at Peoria Community Center, 8335 W. Jefferson Street. This Scrabble group meets weekly and welcomes new participants. For information, call 623773-7436.

Friday

27

Bingo

Play a game of bingo at 12:30 p.m. at Peoria Community Center, 8335 W. Jefferson Street. Individual bingo cards cost 25 cents and 50 cents for coverall.

For information, call 623-773-7436.

Lasers, music and backlights will transform the indoor trampoline park into a jumping dance club from 8 to 11 p.m. at Sky Zone Peoria, 9040 W. Larkspur Drive, Suite 134. The park has trampoline dodgeball, a foam pit, a warrior course and more. Tickets are $20. All ages are welcome. Participants must wear an all-white or neon-color shirt.

Shirts will be available for $5. For information, call 623-979-4000.

Rifle Team Practice

American Legion’s Rifle Team Practice will take place from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the American Legion Post 62, 9847 W. Desert Cove Avenue. For information, call 623-972-8372.

Winter Fest Games

Stop by AZ Ice Peoria at 15829 N. 83rd Avenue from 2:10 to 7:30 p.m. for fun seasonal games on the ice. For information, call 623-334-1200.

Free Ice Skating Lessons

AZ Ice Peoria offers one skating class for free every Saturday at 11:15 a.m. at 15829 N. 83rd Avenue. The intro class is available for children and adults of all ages. A skate rental is included for the class. Skaters should wear thin socks, gloves and a jacket. After the class, an evaluator will provide a class recommendation. To register, email bridgetk@ azice.com.

Sunday

29 Early Bird Jump

Pinochle

Play a game of Pinochle at 1 p.m. at Peoria Community Center, 8335 W. Jefferson Street. Attendance is free. For information, call 623-773-7436.

Northwest Speakers Toastmasters Club

Become a stronger leader and speaker in biweekly meetings from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on second and fourth Thursdays at Peoria Main Library, 8463 W. Monroe Street. For information, email vppr4318@toastmastersclubs.org.

‘Murder on the Poop Deck’

Enjoy dinner and a show from 7 to 9 p.m. at Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane. In tonight’s show, members of the audience will enjoy a three-course meal during a fun, theatrical story that invites audience participation. In this “Murder on the Poop Deck,” the audience will play extras in a fun narrative. Cost is $49. For information, call 623-776-8400.

AZ Ice Time Stick Time

AZ Ice Peoria coaches will instruct hockey to all ages during a Stick Time session from 5:30 to 7:15 a.m. at 15829 N. 83rd Avenue. Tickets are $15. For information, call 623-334-1200.

Shuffleboard

Join friends for a game of shuffleboard from 5 to 6 p.m. at the American Legion Post 62, 9847 W. Desert Cove Avenue.

For information, call 623-972-8372.

Freestyle Ice Skating

Enjoy a freestyle ice skating session from 5:30 to 6:30 a.m. at AZ Ice Peoria, 15829 N. 83rd Avenue. For pricing and more information, call 623-334-1200.

Open Play

Children of all ages can have a fun day playing at Jumper’s Jungle Family Fun Center at 9299 W. Olive Avenue, Suite 406. The center is complete with bouncy houses, super slides, inflatable obstacles and more. Cost is $7 for toddlers ages 2 and under or $10 for kids ages 3 to 17. For information, call 623-322-4100.

‘Elf the Musical’

Enjoy dinner and a performance of “Elf the Musical” at the Arizona Broadway Theater, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, at 5:30 p.m. This musical is based on the 2003 film starring Will Ferrell, which shares the hilarious tale of Buddy, who is adopted by an elf in the North Pole.

When Buddy grows up, he embarks on a journey to New York City to find his father and discover his true identity.

Cost is $36.20 to $89.99. For information, call 623-776-8400.

One Heart Trio

Enjoy a performance by One Heart Trio from 5 to 9 p.m. at American Legion Post 62, 9847 W. Desert Cove Avenue. For information, call 623-9728372.

The early bird gets the work from 10 a.m. to noon at Sky Zone Peoria, 9040 W. Larkspur Drive, Suite 134. Tickets are only $10 for two hours of jump time. This premier indoor trampoline park has trampoline dodgeball, a foam pit, a warrior course and more. For information, call 623-979-4000.

CALENDAR

Monday

30

Dress code is “festive fun” as if you were going out on the town in Vegas.

For information, call 623-776-8400.

Private Riding Lessons

Line Dances

SilverSneakers

The focus of this class in on toning muscles and building overall strength.

The class is comparable to the Fit After 50 exercise program and takes place at 9:30 a.m. at Peoria Community Center, 8335 W. Jefferson Street. Attendance is $1.50 for nonmembers. For information, call 623-773-7436.

Queen Hearts

Join friends for a card game from 7 to 8 p.m. at the American Legion Post 62, 9847 W. Desert Cove Avenue. For information, call 623-972-8372.

Tuesday

31

Pool Tournament

Compete in a pool tournament from 5 to 9 p.m. at the American Legion Post 62, 9847 W. Desert Cove Avenue. For information, call 623-972-8372.

Tai Chi Essentials

Learn Tai Chi from 9 to 9:50 a.m. at Peoria Community Center, 8335 W. Jefferson Street. Attendance is $1.50. For information, call 623-773-7436.

Children of all ages are admitted to Jumper’s Jungle Family Fun Center at 9299 W. Olive Avenue, Suite 406, for only $5. The center is complete with bouncy houses, super slides, inflatable obstacles and more. For information, call 623-322-4100.

Shuffleboard

Zumba

Instructor Akua Jitahadi will lead a Zumba class at 8 a.m. Tuesdays and 9 a.m. Thursdays at Peoria Community Center, 8335 W. Jefferson Street. Attendance is $1.50 for nonmembers. For information, call 623-773-7436.

New Year’s Eve Party

Ring in the new year with friends from 5 to 10 p.m. at the American Legion Post 62, 9847 W. Desert Cove Avenue.

For information, call 623-972-8372.

Luke Museum Fundraiser

Join Arizona Broadway Theatre in celebrating the New Year from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. with dinner and dancing to jazz great Dr. Jesse McGuire, along with Santo Maglio, George Berry, Dan Seabreeze, and Rich Ebersole. Each ticket includes a cocktail drink, buffet dinner, dessert and a champagne toast.

The venue will have a live stream of the ball drop at New York Times Square.

This event benefits the 1st Lt Frank Luke Memorial Museum and Research Center, a 501c3 organization dedicated to the preservation of military history. Cost is $99. The fundraiser will take place in The Encore room, 7701 W. Paradise Lane. For information, call 623-776-8400.

Wednesday

January

1

Distillery Tour

Bring family and friends to see a craft distillery in action. Lucidi Distilling Co. tours are available at 1 p.m. Sundays.

Pricing starts at just $14 per person and includes a generous sampling of three kinds of spirits and a custom-made signature cocktail. The distillery is located in Historic Fire Station No. 1, 8307 W. Washington Street. To book a party and learn more, call 623299-8779.

It’s Only Knit and Purl (Ages 16+)

Make friends as you knit, crochet or quilt from 1 to 3 p.m. at Peoria Main Library, 8463 W. Monroe Street. For information, call 623-773-7555.

‘Elf the Musical’

Enjoy dinner and a performance of “Elf the Musical” at the Arizona Broadway Theater, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, at noon. This musical is based on the 2003 film starring Will Ferrell, which shares the hilarious tale of Buddy, who is adopted by an elf in the North Pole.

When Buddy grows up, he embarks on a journey to New York City to find his father and discover his true identity.

Cost is $36.20 to $89.99. For information, call 623-776-8400.

2

Thrifty Thursdays

Arizona Riders private horseback riding lessons are available from 5 to 8 p.m. for all levels of experience from children ages 3 and older to adults.

Arizona Riders is located at 15125 N. 83rd Avenue. For information, call 602403-9560.

Have a fun morning of line dancing from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Peoria Community Center, 8335 W. Jefferson Street.

The class does not require a partner dancer. Attendance is $5. For information, call 623-773-7436.

Thursday

19

Join friends for a game of shuffleboard from 5 to 6 p.m. at the American Legion Post 62, 9847 W. Desert Cove Avenue. For information, call 623-9728372.

Grab Bag Bingo

Enjoy eight games of free bingo at 10:45 a.m. at Peoria Community Center, 8335 W. Jefferson Street. Winners choose from an assortment of grab bags. For information, call 623-773-7436.

Mini Bingo

Meet new friends over short rounds of bingo from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. at the American Legion Post 62, 9847 W. Desert Cove Avenue. For information, call 623-972-8372.

Friday

3

Valley Engineering, Science and Technology Club

Enjoy a luncheon and a technical presentation entitled “First Ever Photos of a Black Hole” by Dr. Phil Mauskopf, a professor at the ASU School of Earth and Space Exploration. The presentation will discuss how astronomers unveiled the first-ever pictures of a black hole as well as details of the photographs. The presentation will take place at 11:30 a.m. at the Briarwood Country Club, 20800 N. 135th Avenue, Sun City West. Cost is $24 and reservations are required at least 3 days prior to the meeting. For information, call 623-5379196.

Hiking through a Desert Forest

Open Play

Children of all ages can jump around and play from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Jumper’s Jungle Family Fun Center at 9299 W. Olive Avenue, Suite 406. The center is complete with bouncy houses, super slides, inflatable obstacles and more.

For prices and information, call 623322-4100.

Busy Bee Crafters

This creative group meets weekly to share ideas and work on a variety of craft projects at 9 a.m. at Peoria Community Center, 8335 W. Jefferson Street. For information, call 623-7737436.

Viva Las Vegas

Ring in the new year with Arizona Broadway Theatre from 7 to 11 p.m. on the ABT Mainstage, 7701 W. Paradise Lane. Live entertainment features Sherie Rae Parker, the number one Bette Midler tribute artist in the world, Chance Tinder, a top Elvis Presley tribute artist, and Michael Finney, whose work combines stand-up comedy and amazing magic tricks. Cost is $175 and includes an elegant dinner and dessert, complimentary photo and a champagne toast.

Holiday Public Session

Stop by AZ Ice Peoria at 15829 N. 83rd Avenue from 12:30 to 5 p.m. for a holiday public session on the ice. Cost is $3.50 to $9.50. For information, call 623-334-1200.

Join rangers on a hike of two and a half miles through the desert forest from 9 to 11:30 a.m. After entering Lake Pleasant Regional Park, take Lake Pleasant Access Road to South Park Road to Waterline Way to find the ten-lane boat ramp east parking lot. Follow the “Hike” signs from the main park entrance. This hike is restricted, so hikers can only visit it with a park ranger.

Bring water and a snack. Hiking poles work well on this hike, since there are creek crossings and some good hills.

There are restrooms at the trailhead.

For information, call 602-506-2930, extension 2.

Exclusive Holiday Gift Package

This exclusive holiday gift package goes on sale at 8 a.m. and includes two dinner and show tickets to a Season 15 MainStage Productions, excluding “Elf the Musical” at Arizona Broadway Theatre as well as two desserts and coffee cups. For information, call 623776-8400.

Discovery Center

Stop by the Discovery Center at Lake Pleasant Regional Park, 39345 N. Overlook Road, and learn about Lake Pleasant’s connection to the Central Arizona Project. For information, call 602-5062930, extension 2.

Peoria Times

20

December 26, 2019

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Peoria Times

22 FEATURES

December 26, 2019

For more features visit peoriatimes.com /PeoriaTimes

PeoriaTimes.com

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with food, fun, festivities around the West Valley

BY ALISON STANTON

Peoria Times Contributing Writer

On New Year’s Eve, folks can hang out at home and watch the iconic ball drop in Times Square on television from the comfort of your couch.

Or they can head out and celebrate the end of 2019 and the beginning of 2020 at any one of these festive and fun NYE celebrations throughout the West Valley.

As a bonus, for those who want to hit the hay early or still catch the traditional celebrations on TV, a few of these events will take place earlier in the day.

Westgate Entertainment District Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale has one main goal this New Year’s Eve: to deliver festive fun for

everyone of all ages.

“Our family-friendly, ‘Noon Year’s Eve’ celebration features a confetti balloon drop at noon rather than midnight, costumed characters, crafts, on-stage entertainment and more,” said Jessica Kubicki, YAM Properties Director of Marketing, adding people can also enjoy day-to-night pre and post-Coyotes game happenings at the “New Year’s Eve Live!” block party.

“Before the game, Westgate restaurants and the Arizona Coyotes will host an all-ages, free-entry beer garden. After the puck drops, Fat Tuesday, Whiskey Rose, Salt Tacos y Tequila, the Lola and McFadden’s will co-host an indoor, outdoor ticketed affair with fireworks, a countdown and performance by DJ Pauly D.” While in the past, different bars and restaurants at Westgate have hosted

their own celebrations, Kubicki said this year will be the first time the aforementioned five bars are teaming up for one event with one cover charge.

Whether people choose to celebrate at noon or in the hours leading up to midnight, Kubicki said there will be plenty of festive fun at each event.

“Expected attendance for each event ranges in the thousands. While this number is high, we strive to create a unique and happy experience for every guest,” she said.

Noon Year’s Eve will be celebrated from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Fountain Park. New Year’s Eve Live! from 4 p.m.-2 a.m. at the WaterDance Plaza.

Westgate Entertainment District, 6770 N. Sunrise Boulevard, Suite 333, Glendale, westgateaz.com/nye.

Uptown Alley

The entertainment venue is offering a family-friendly party from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. The New Year’s Eve Day Party special is $99.99 for four people and includes 90 minutes of bowling, two games of laser tag, pizza and soda and a $15 game card. There will also be a balloon drop at 7 p.m. and over $3,000 worth of prizes given away throughout the day.

At 7:30 p.m. the party for adults begins with live music by Retro Connection. Enjoy music, a balloon drop at midnight and over $10,000 in prizes.

VIP packages are available and include bowling, drinks, party favors and more.

Uptown Alley, 13525 N. Litchfield Road, Surprise, uptownalleysurprise.com.

Arizona Broadway Theatre Ring in the New Year from 7 to 11 SEE NEW YEAR’S

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Peoria Times

December 26, 2019

FEATURES 23

Just because kids homeschool doesn’t mean they have to stay home to learn

BY CARRIE SNIDER

Peoria Times Contributing Writer

When it comes to a child’s education, parents have plenty to ponder. Should their child go to a public school?

Which one? Or maybe they should attend a charter school or private school?

Many in the area are doing something completely different: homeschooling.

In Glendale, some homeschoolers are banding together to support one another and offer more opportunities for their children.

Samantha Packer, who homeschools her five children in Glendale, is a trained preschool teacher.

“I love having my children home with me, and I love getting to experience they’re learning with them,” she said.

Her two oldest children use an online program called Time4Learning. The younger three are on different workbooks. They generally work for three hours each morning, but the learning doesn’t stop there.

“We do lots of hands-on experiments, adventures, and exploring,” Packer said. “We try to get her school work done earlier in the morning so they can have the rest of the day to have free time. This gives them time to explore their interests like art, crochet, Legos, coding, as well as fun outdoor play.”

What makes homeschooling more communal is that Packer lives next to two best friends who also homeschool.

They have a standing activity every Tuesday, where the older kids do one thing and the younger kids do another.

Packer takes the younger kids for sensory play, story time, spelling games, free play, etc. Currently, the older kids are writing and reading through a selection of old fairy tales.

In addition, Packer is part of a homeschool co-op called Branches West Valley with 80 families. Every Friday, the kids take four different classes (crafting, art, science, math, robotics and engineering, music, on the job training opportunities, sports).

While she is in charge of her children’s learning, Packer has found that banding together with other homeschool families has been very beneficial.

“Working with other homeschool families enriches my children’s education because they get to learn from people who have different interests and talents than I do,” she said. “They also get an incredible amount of encouragement, love,

Homeschool children visit the library in Glendale for a hands-on activity. (Photo courtesy Samantha Packer)

and compassion from other adults. They have learned things from these other people that I could not have taught them from a book, and that is priceless.”

Homeschool is what uou make it Rustell LoManto, of Youngtown, is another former educator who homeschools. She has 10-year-old twins, Ben and Abby.

“I was an educator before deciding to stay home with my kids,” LoManto said. “Originally, I planned to stay home until time for kindergarten, but watching my teacher friends post on Facebook about the changes they weren’t enjoying made me not want to go back and work in that environment or send my kids into it.”

She also believes experience-based learning is the best way to learn.

“Homeschooling definitely provides that opportunity. When we learn about the Civil War from a book, it isn’t quite the same as learning about the Civil War while visiting Gettysburg,” she said.

Homeschool is what you make it, she said. Some days she and the kids are at home at the table writing or doing math.

Other days they type business letters or do a spelling bee. Or they join with a group of other homeschoolers for art class at the Desert Botanical Garden, a field trip to the new Medieval Times, a living wax museum, a zoo visit, sports.

“Sometimes we do school in the car,” she explained. “Some days we are at an event and I know they are learning from the experience—I don’t have to have it check off a particular box for our curriculum. Dinosaurs aren’t on SEE HOMESCHOOL PAGE 24

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Peoria Times

24 FEATURES MILD MILD MILD

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“I set a guideline of goals for their learning at the beginning of the year and have checkpoints throughout the year. As long as we are meeting those, we are good to keep our calendar filled with field trips and experiences.”

Social media helps, as she said there are A group of homeschoolers meets up at the Grid Lounge in Glendale to socialize and play over 20 different active Facebook groups Cyber games after a morning of school. (Photo courtesy for homeschoolers. In her area, there are Rustell LoManto)

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In fact, with their homeschool friends they volunteer and do clean ups, put together care packages for the homeless, put together backpacks for children in need, singing at retirement homes, etc.

She gets the “are your kids socialized?” question sometimes, and she said that some homesHomeschooling isn’t always at home. Many students, including choolers joke that if their Abby LoManto, do their school work at the park. (Photo courtesy kids were anymore soRustell LoManto) cialized, they wouldn’t have time for school. plenty of park days, holiday parties, co“Working together with other homeops, science fairs and field trips. schoolers gives us an almost limitless “Working with other families is im- possibility of ideas. From asking quesportant for homeschooling,” LoManto tions about high school transcripts to said. “The image of isolated homes- does anyone have a Ben Franklin wig choolers never leaving their homes is I can borrow—with a wide network of antiquated. The majority of homes- friends taking a similar journey, there chool families are outgoing and active- is always someone who can help with ly engaged in their communities.” whatever is on your mind.”

NEW YEAR’S EVE FROM PAGE 22

p.m. “Viva Las Vegas: a New Year’s Eve Celebration” at Arizona Broadway Theatre on the ABT Mainstage. Live entertainment features Sherie Rae Parker, “the number one Bette Midler tribute artist in the world”; Chance Tinder, a top Elvis Presley tribute artist; and Michael Finney, whose work combines stand-up comedy and magic tricks.

Cost is $175 and includes an elegant dinner and dessert, complimentary photo and a champagne toast. Dress code is “festive fun” as if you were going out on the town in Vegas.

Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623-776-8400, azbroadway.org.

The Wigwam Resort Say goodbye to 2019 and hello to 2020 at one of three celebrations at the Wigwam. Guests can settle in for a special four-course prix fixe dinner with a glass of sparkling wine at Litchfield’s from 5 to 10 p.m. for $68. All generations are welcome to celebrate at Red’s Bar and Grill from 7 to 10 p.m. with live music, family-friendly patio games and big-screen televisions to watch the ball drop. Visitors can also dance their way into the new year with a drink in hand at The Wigwam Bar from 7 p.m. to midnight with live music by the Fabulous Keen Brothers.

The Wigwam, 300 E. Wigwam Boulevard, Litchfield Park, wigwamarizona.com.

Zoomtown Lights If you have not quite gotten your fill of holiday lights, New Year’s Eve is the final night for this year’s Zoomtown Lights event at the ISM Raceway track.

The drive-through light course covers around 1.6 miles and features snowfall canopies, motorsports-inspired displays and trees of light. Hours are from 6-9 p.m. and the admission is $25 per car.

ISM Raceway Track, 7602 S. Avondale Boulevard, Avondale, ismraceway.com.

Make it home safe If your New Year’s Eve plans involve adult beverages, the ride-share company Lyft offers holiday specials The “Save Lives, Don’t DUI” campaign will offer riders a responsible ride option with Lyft. Between now and New Year’s Day, new riders can use the code JOY for up to $5 off four rides. Existing riders can use the code JOY19 to receive 20 percent off two rides.

“We’re proud to partner with the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, Desert Financial Credit Union and Hubbard Radio to promote Lyft as a reliable ride option for those celebrating this holiday season,” said Drena Kusari, Lyft Regional Director.

“We encourage riders to plan ahead with a Lyft ride so they can get out and explore their city without worrying about parking or how to get home afterward.”

For details, visit lyft.com/rider/signup.

Peoria Times

December 26, 2019

FEATURES 25

GOby FIGURE! Linda Thistle ANSWERS ON PAGE 31

King Crossword ACROSS 1 Variety of lettuce 5 “Eureka!”

8 Book of prophecies 12 Lotion additive 13 Chaps 14 Toothpaste container 15 Anger 16 Conventional 18 One up?

20 Western occurrence 21 Leopold’s codefendant 23 Four qts.

24 One of Monopoly’s light-blue avenues 28 Speech impediment 31 Great noise 32 Disrobe 34 Female deer 35 Bird of peace 37 Decoration 39 Finish 41 Ireland 42 Secular

45 Servile 49 Form a union 51 Top 52 Isn’t well 53 Calendar abbr.

54 Prolonged sleep 55 Run away 56 Automaton, for short 57 Slaughter of baseball

DOWN 1 Zinger 2 Pelvic bones 3 Nut partner 4 Pvt. Bailey 5 Cherub, in art 6 The girl 7 Picnic invaders 8 Musically keyless 9 Flood aftermath, perhaps 10 Reed instrument 11 Send a naughty

message 17 Embrace 19 Billions of years 22 Wilkes- --, Pa. 24 Peculiar 25 Brazilian tourist mecca 26 Lure 27 Ache aid 29 Junior 30 Teacher’s -33 Rid of rind 36 Put in a box 38 Threaten 40 Novelist Brown 42 Unsliced bread 43 Seed coat 44 Owl’s perch 46 PC picture 47 Magazine contents 48 Meadows 50 Menagerie

SUDOKU TIME

The idea of Go Figure is to arrive at the figures given at the bottom and right-hand columns of the diagram by following the arithmetic signs in the order they are given (that is, from left to right and top to bottom). Use only the numbers below the diagram to complete its blank squares and use each of the nine numbers only once.

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK H H H

H Moderate HH Challenging HHH HOO BOY!

EVEN EXCHANGE

by Donna Pettman

Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each small 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.

DIFFICULTY THIS WEEK H

H Moderate HH Challenging HHH HOO BOY!

Each numbered row contains two clues and two answers. The two answers differ from each other by only one letter, which has already been inserted. For example, if you exchange the A from MASTER for an I, you get MISTER. Do not change the order of the letters.

SCRAMBLERS Unscramble the letters within each rectangle to form four ordinary words.

Then rearrange the boxed letters to form the mystery word, which will complete the gag!

Peoria Times

26 RELIGION

December 26, 2019

For more religion visit peoriatimes.com Peoria Times.com

/PeoriaTimes

What kids think of Christmas and a girl who just wanted to be hugged CHURCH COMMUNITY CONNECTION Pastor Ed Delph Peoria Times Columnist

Years ago, David and Elizabeth Heller wrote a book titled, “The Best Christmas Presents Are Wrapped in Heaven: Children on Christmas.”

They asked children some great questions about Christmas we all can glean from. Here’s some of their questions and the children’s responses.

What makes Christmas so special? Stacy, age 8: “Everything sparkles at Christmas especially the people.” Johnny, 7: “I like how the three kings brought presents and gave Santa Claus the big idea.” Marie, 8: “Christmas (is special because) it makes everyone have a bigger heart.”

Carey, 7: “It gives you a chance to think about other people for a change.” Syl-

via (age 10): “Christmas is special because it’s the season to be a child at heart.”

Why is Christmas good for families? Lem, 10: “It shows you can be a happy family even if you live in a manger.” Gaye, 9: “Christmas is the one day you can wake everybody up and get away with it.”

Brandi, 10: “Christmas makes families say ‘God bless you’ even when nobody sneezes.”

What does the Christmas carol “Silent Night” mean? Gaye, 9: “It’s supposed to be a quiet night because back there in the Holy Land, Jesus needed his sleep, to get ready to do all those miracles.”

Matthew, 9: “When you see somebody special being born, you just get

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kind of amazed and quiet.”

What is the real message of Christmas? Henry, 9: “The message is wonderful things can happen here on earth too – but most of it starts higher up.”

What is the surest sign Christmas is coming? Sylvia, 10: “The biggest sign is one we can’t see. God is busier than before. He’s working on what people really need for presents, (because you see) all the best Christmas presents are wrapped in heaven.”

Those are great questions and profound answers. But I would imagine the most often asked question during Christmas time is, “What do you want for Christmas?” Assuming it’s not your “two front teeth” or “a hippopotamus” or “a ’54 convertible too, light blue,” what we want for Christmas or what others want for Christmas is the main topic of conversation.

Consider this Christmas story about a little girl from France. She was asked, “What would you like for Christmas?”

It’s in the book “Christmas Gifts That Always Fit,” by James W. Moore.

During World War II, four young American soldiers, who had been in battle for some time were sent back from the front lines to a small French village for a little rest and relaxation.

When they arrived in the village, they suddenly realized it was Christmas Eve and began to discuss how they would spend Christmas.

One of the soldiers said, “You know, as we were coming into town earlier today, I noticed an orphanage on the outskirts of the village. Let’s go there in the morning and take some Christmas joy to those children.”

The more the soldiers talked about it, the more excited they became. So, they went out and bought toys and candy and games. Early the next morning, they showed up at the front door of the orphanage with Christmas presents for all the children. All the children were delighted as they opened their gifts – all the children, that is, except one little girl, who stood quietly off to the side.

She appeared to be five or six years old, looking very sad.

One of the soldiers noticed the little girl was not participating and asked the orphanage director about her. “Oh, bless her heart,” said the director. “We just got her last week. Both of her parents were killed in a car wreck. There was no one to take her in, so we brought her here.”

The soldier went over to the little girl and gently said, “It’s Christmas morning, and we have Christmas presents here – toys, clothes, candy, food, books, puzzles. Which would you like? What do you want for Christmas?” The little girl said, “I want somebody to hold me.”

Her response attracts us, shocks us, or maybe even repels us. Her response is raw and authentic, signaling a need and a reality much deeper and more real than “a ’54 convertible too, light blue.” Her response challenges us to respond. Her request takes us to places in our inner spaces where God lives.

What if the little girl said to you, “I want somebody to hold me.” What would you do? I think most all of us would have held and hugged her, don’t you? She was deeply hurt and in shock, in a war, her parents were killed, in an orphanage with strangers, with soldiers speaking a funny language to her. Someone just like you, hugging and holding the little girl, could be the “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” for the rest of her life.

Isn’t this what God does on Christmas Day? Maybe the best Christmas gift of all is not giving us “little tin horns and little toy drums” but with arms held wide open, giving His own Son to hold us and heal us, the physician for our innermost well-being.

Maybe you know someone in shock like the little girl who needs more than “Rooty toot toots and rummy tum tums.” Maybe what they need is a brief time to be held, hugged, assured, cared for, and listened too, by you. Maybe, all they want for Christmas is you!

To learn more about Pastor Ed Delph, the Church-Community Connection and Nation strategy, call 623-376-6757, e-mail nationstrategy@cs.com or visit nationstrategy.com.

Peoria Times

623-979-3239 www.churchatcactus.org Member of AWAB (Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists)

A place of Grace

Mass Schedule - Spanish Fri 6:00pm (OLPH) Sat 7:00pm (Capilla) Sun 10:00am (Capilla), 12:30pm (OLPH) & 3:00pm (OLPH)

First United Methodist Church of Glendale 7102 N. 58th Drive In Historic Downtown Glendale

Sunday Services: 8:00 am - Communion 9:00 am - Traditional Worship 10:10 am - Sunday School 11:11 am - Blended Worship

623.939.1409 glendalefirstumc.com

Nursery Provided

Wednesday: Family Night 7:00 p.m. www.hcaz.org

Harvest CHurCH 8340 W. Northern

Northern Ave. Glendale Ave.

Lutheran Church - ELCA

Roman Catholic Parish Glendale

Mass Schedule - English M-F 6:15am & 8:30am Sat 8:30am & 5:00pm Sun 6:30am, 8:30am & 10:30am

Sunday: 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m.

Shepherd of the Desert

OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP 5614 W. Orangewood Ave., Glendale • 623-939-9785 www.olphglendale.com

Dr. Ron G. Rockwell – Pastor

83rd Ave.

Sunday Activities: 9:00 am - Connections (Church Gathering) 9:30 am - Connections (Bible Study) 10:30 am - Fellowship 11:00 am - Sunday Worship

Information 623.334.9482

y

8133 W. Cactus Rd. Peoria, AZ 85381

8340 W. Northern Ave. Glendale, AZ 85305

ewa

We invite you to worship with us weekly.

A Welcoming and Affirming Congregation

Harvest CHurCH

91st ave.

ETERNAL

Church At Cactus

Fr e

GOD’S LOVE IS

RELIGION 27

101

December 26, 2019

11025 N. 111th Ave., Sun City/Youngtown

Avondale Baptist Church 1001 North Central • Avondale 623-932-2723 You are welcome!

Morning Worship .................................... 8:30 am Bible Study ........................................9:45 am Worship Service ..............................11:00 am Spanish Worship .............................11:00 am Wednesday Bible Study .................................................6:30 pm www.abcaz.net

10935 W. Olive Ave. Peoria 85345 Phone (623) 972-8479 office@westolive.com www.westolive.com

Sunday Bible Study 9 a.m.

Worship 10 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Bible Classes for all ages - 7:00 p.m.

Everyone Is Welcome!

7020 W. Cactus Rd Peoria, AZ 85381 623-979-3497 www.apostles-az.org

Sunday Worship 8am & 10:45am English 10:45am Spanish

Sunday School 9:15am English 11am Spanish Rev. Andrew Byars, Pastor Rev. Ramon Cabrales, Assoc. Pastor

Handicap Bus - Call for pickup

Rev. Dr. Daniel R. Defassio, Pastor 623-933-1359 shepherdofthedesertelca.org Email: sodsecretary@qwestoffice.net

Lutheran/ Missouri Synod Apostles Lutheran Church & Preschool

• Worship Saturday 4:00pm, Sunday 9:30am • Holy Communion both services • Word on Wednesday 6:30pm, Supper 5:30pm • First Communion Classes Call to schedule • Youth Programs - Scouts After School - Camp

10250 N. 59th Ave. 623-937-9216 Sunday Services: Bible Study ....................................... 9:15 am Morning Worship ............................ 10:30 am Discipleship Training ........................4:45 pm Evening Worship ..............................6:00 pm Wednesdays: TeamKid, Youth Worship Bible Study & Prayer....................... 6:00 pm Dr. Mark Mucklow, Pastor www.fsbcg.org

Peoria Times

28 YOUTH

December 26, 2019

For more youth visit peoriatimes.com PeoriaTimes.com

/PeoriaTimes

School resource officers work to keep campuses safe

BY AYANNA MUHAMMAD

Peoria Times Contributing Writer

Educators strive to create safe environments for students, but they continue to face potential new dangers potentially threatening children’s safety.

Like other districts, the Deer Valley Unified School District is reviewing its school safety procedures – and making changes.

To help provide a safe environment, some schools within the DVUSD have hired behavioral counselors, changed gating procedures, or have added school resource officers (SROs) to their campuses.

There also have been changes regarding school safety procedures. For example, students and teachers no longer evacuate the campus when a fire alarm goes off. Now, they wait on campus until they receive an all-clear signal, according to Deer Valley High School Principal Kim Crooks. This was imple-

mented at Deer Valley High last year.

Teachers in the Deer Valley district now receive training every year and practice evacuation, lockdown and lockout drills with their students every month. During lockdowns, teachers stop teaching, students stay out of sight and all doors are locked. Teachers send emails to say if all their students are safe and present, or if they have another student visiting their class, to account for everyone on campus.

With lockouts, the outside gates and doors are locked. Students are free to move around campus but cannot come or go.

As part of the security upgrades and procedural changes, Deer Valley classrooms are equipped with red buckets that have water, first aid items and can be used as a bathroom if students are locked in for long periods of time. They also have special sleeves to put on door closers to prevent them from opening from the outside.

They also now have a permanent SRO on campus as well as three security officers.

Educators said they feel safer having an SRO on duty.

“It makes me feel safer because I have a police officer already on campus. He’s got his radio attached to him at all times so it’s a direct line to the Glendale Police Department,” said Crooks about SRO Aaron Brokschmidt.

Brokschmidt has been a police officer for over 12 years. He has worked many sporting events, dance concerts, and other school activities over the years at various schools and is in his second full year of working at Deer Valley.

Barry Goldwater High School added an SRO to its campus, along with a behavioral counselor and another social worker to provide early support and intervention for students, according to Principal Anita Stulc. Students are expected to follow their

class schedules, and teachers are responsible for supervising them and keeping track of them during emergencies, Stulc said.

Students who are not in classrooms when an emergency or drill is started are in the responsibility of other staff members.

“Students are taught to follow the direction of any adult on campus to ensure that if there is an emergency that students will also follow directions in that situation,’’ said Stulc. During times of emergency, Goldwater High uses emails, phone calls and text messages to communicate with parents and students what’s happening.”

Many educators believe keeping their school and students safe is their most important responsibility. Schools have several plans in place for different situations but hope they will never have to use them.

“That’s the No. 1 thing that keeps me awake at night is how do I keep this place safe?” Crooks said.

Peoria Times

December 26, 2019

YOUTH 29

High school teachers hustle at multiple jobs to make ends meet

BY AYANNA MUHAMMAD

Peoria Times Contributing Writer

Deer Valley High School teacher and coach Kevin Riegle has experienced the need to work multiple jobs – seven, to be exact – to pay his bills and support his family.

“Most teachers I know work multiple jobs,” Riegle said.

Educators in the Deer Valley school district made an average salary of just over $44,000 in 2018, according to a teacher salary variance spreadsheet.

Postsecondary education teachers make a starting salary of up to $53,000.

From 2015-2018, Riegle was a fulltime teacher, the head athletic trainer and the assistant track coach at Deer Valley High. He also worked as a security guard for events at the University of Phoenix Stadium on the weekends. If there wasn’t work at the stadium, Riegle worked soccer and baseball tournaments at various sites as an athletic trainer at least two weekends a month for up to 30 hours.

During the summers, he worked at the Pueblo Grande Museum. Riegle remembers working a shift from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

at the stadium one day, then driving to Tempe to work from 5 p.m. to 5 a.m. at the museum. These jobs would bring in an extra $1,000-$1,500 a month for him “It was rough… there were many days I left before anyone in my family was awake and didn’t return until they were all asleep,” he said.

Riegle said this was a frustrating point in his life because he felt he was missing out on a lot with his family but knew this was what had to be done to support them.

Riegle always tried to keep his schedule as full as possible to be able to pay the bills. He remembers one of his checks at the beginning of the 2015-16 school year being under $800 for a twoweek period. The health insurance the district provided for him and his family was $800 a month. Riegle remembers having a weak immune system and being too tired to help at home or spend needed time with his family.

At some jobs when he had downtime, he was able to work on lesson plans.

“I would take my computer to some of the soccer or baseball tournaments and when it was slow there, I would

jump on my hotspot and get some work done,” Riegle said.

Riegle grew up in a family of teachers in the small town of Forest, Ohio.

He was a three-sport athlete in high school and had an interest in athletic training. Riegle said he always enjoyed the excitement around high school sports and thought being a teacher was the best way to be a part of them.

Riegle got some motivation to work multiple jobs in adulthood from watching his father growing up.

“My dad had part-time jobs to make sure we had what we needed. I knew what had to be done because I had seen it done growing up,” Riegle said.

Kim Crooks, Deer Valley’s current principal, has known Riegle for five years.

“He wants to give the best experiences to students and his student-athletes. If I could clone him I would,” Crooks said.

One of Riegle’s former co-workers, James Jaeger, said Riegle is an excellent teacher, coach, husband, father and friend. Riegle and Jaeger worked together as teachers at Deer Valley and as security guards at the stadium. Jae-

ger is a teacher at Sandra Day O’Connor High School and said he also has had to work multiple jobs every year while teaching.

Riegle now has less on his plate. He still teaches at Deer Valley and is the school’s head cross country and track coach. Riegle said two things have allowed him to have more freedom. The first was when he began teaching online health through the district. Although it still takes a lot of time, he can work from home after his kids have gone to bed. The other was the RedforEd movement, which gave teachers a 10% raise for the 2018-19 school year, then another 5% this school year.

Riegle has spent his 16-year teaching career at Deer Valley, and the students are his favorite part of the job.

“I love seeing kids work hard in class and in sports while watching them progress and grow as people,’’ he said. He is a certified athletic trainer and has his Master of Arts in education and a Bachelor of Science in athletic training.

His advice he would give to future educators: “Marry a spouse who makes more money than you.”

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30 YOUTH

Peoria Times

December 26, 2019

Third-generation Girl Scout earns prestigious Gold Award

BY ANNELISE KRAFFT

for 11 years,” says Nevers. “A few of change. my aunts were also Girl Scouts, so it’s For Nevers, that passion For Gabrielle Nevers, a Peoria Girl something close to my heart.” came in the form of imScout with Arizona Cactus-Pine CounWith her family’s support, Nevers proving the color guard cil (GSACPC), the G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, tackled Girl Scouts’ most prestigious program at Centennial Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader) quali- honor: The Gold Award. This distin- High School. ties run in her family. guished award, considered the most “I first found interest in “My grandma was involved with difficult to earn, allows Girl Scouts the color guard as a high Girl Scouts as my mom’s troop leader to take action in their communities by school freshman, when 19.11 Credit AD - an Glendale Star/Peoria Times 4.9x8.2 when she MIS79170 was young, andPRM then I Tax contintackling issue they are passionate most of my friends were ued the tradition by being a Girl Scout about and implementing measurable in marching band,” says Nevers. “I don’t play any instruments, but color guard allowed me to still get involved and be part of the team.”

Color guard is a team within a marching band that performs choreographed dances and routines using equipment to enhance the music of a marching band show. Typically, the equipment can include batons, sabers, ribbons, and flags, also known as silks.

“As captain of our color guard, I noticed how Gabrielle Nevers, a third-generation Girl Scout, earned the presEvery $1 you give to the hard it was to keep all of tigious Gold Award. (Photo courtesy Gabrielle Nevers) Mission helps reduce our equipment organized,” says Nevers. “We ended up ordering of us,” recalls Nevers. “I helped grow your state taxes—by multiples of things we already had in the team to 13 people by the next year Every iv$e1 up to $800!* Make a stock, just because we didn’t know – and it’s still growing even though I y ou g what we actually had. I decided that graduated this past spring. They’re at year-end gift today! n something had to be done, so I des- 15 members now!” saves $a1xeos! ignated my Gold Award project to reNow enrolled at Northern Arizona your t www.phoenixrescuemission.org/ solve this.”

University, Nevers still makes time for AZTaxSavings Nevers spent two years working on her passion as a member of the Lum*$400 tax reduction if filing single or as head of household, or $800 if filing jointly. her project, organizing all the silks berjack Marching Band’s color guard. into labeled tote bags, and developing She credits GSACPC by giving her a database to keep track of equipment. skills that prepared her for life after After working through a few setbacks, graduation.

Give now to save big on your Arizona state taxes! like not having summer access to the “Girl Scouts taught me people skills, Yes, I want to help feed homeless and hungry men, women, and children throughout Maricopa County band room due to renovations, Nevers how to make new friends, and also and qualify for the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit. Enclosed is my gift: organized and labeled silks into 50 tote gave me the confidence to open up to n $800 n $400 n $100 n $50 n $25 n $______ to help as much as possible. bags, along with creating a detailed people. Running a cookie booth also Color Guard Flag Silk Catalog. gave me real-world customer service PLEASE CHARGE MY GIFT ON MY CREDIT CARD m VISA m MC m AMEX m DISC “It was a lot of work, but ended up experience that I can apply in life,” Mail: Return this slip with a check or being really successful,” says Nev- says Nevers.

Name on Card credit card donation ers. “Our band director told me that Nevers also remembers her 11 years Phoenix Rescue Mission Card Number Security Code P.O. Box 6708 during a band leadership conference with GSACPC and Gold Award jourPhoenix, AZ 85005 my school hosted this summer, other ney with immense pride.

Signature Exp. Date Phone: (602) 346-3336 band directors were taking photos of “It’s a special honor to earn your Phone Online: www.phoenixrescuemission.org/ the totes to use the idea for their own Gold Award – you can get scholarships AZTaxSavings color guard teams.” and even put it on your resume,” says Name Thank you! You will receive a Also, Nevers worked on improving Nevers. “The number of girls can defitax-deductible receipt for your gift. awareness of color guard at her school nitely drop as you get older, but being Address Phoenix Rescue Mission’s Arizona Qualifying by hosting a “Try it Out Night,” where a Girl Scout is something to be really Charitable Organization (QCO) Code is 20549.

City/State/Zip students and incoming freshmen came proud of! Girl Scouts has always made together to learn about color guard ba- me feel like I’m making a difference U865669643 KD9C2NU UUU A G1 KT X 4 sics and get information on how to join. and has helped me achieve goals I nev“When I started, there were only six er thought were possible.”

Peoria Times Guest Writer

Pocket up to $800 in tax savings.

Peoria Times

December 26, 2019

Answers

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NOTICE OF BID PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is given pursuant to ARS §9-462.04, ARS §9461.09(A) and the City Code of Peoria, Arizona, that the Planning and Zoning Commission for the City of Peoria will hold a public hearing on Thursday, January 16, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. at the Peoria City Council Chambers, 8401 W. Monroe Street, Peoria Arizona 85345. Further information related to these requests or the Public Hearings may be obtained from the Planning Division of the Planning & Community Development Department, 9875 N. 85th Avenue, Peoria, Arizona 85345, or by calling the Planning Division at 623-773-7200.

Agenda items: Cobblestone Express Car Wash: Rezoning (Z93-10A.11) A request to amend the Fletcher Heights Planned Area Development (PAD) to permit a standalone car wash. The purpose of the request is to allow for the construction of a 5,897 square foot express car wash to be located at 8268 W. Deer Valley Rd. The scheduled City Council Hearing will be held on February 18, 2020 beginning at 7:00 p.m. for case Z93-10A.11. The Cowley Property: General Plan Amendment (GPA19-02) A request to amend the existing General Plan land use designation on approximately 280 acres. The request would decrease the acreage designated as Traditional Residential (2.5-5.0 du/ac) and increase the Park / Open Space Land Use. The purpose of the request is to allow for a single-family development located west of the alignment of Ridgeline Road and 135th Avenue and southwest of the alignment of Ridgeline Road and Dysart Road. There is a companion rezoning request associated with this proposal (Case Z19-02). The scheduled City Council Hearing will be held on February 18, 2020 beginning at 7:00 p.m. for case GPA19-02 and Z19-02. The Cowley Property: Rezoning (Z19-02) A request to rezone approximately 280 acres from the existing Suburban Ranch (SR43) to the Cowley Property Planned Area Development (PAD). This rezoning would allow a proposed 838 single-family lots, located west of the alignment of Ridgeline Road and 135th Avenue and southwest of Ridgeline Road and Dysart Road. This application is a companion case with Case GPA19-02. The scheduled City Council Hearing will be held on February 18, 2020 beginning at 7:00 p.m. for case GPA19-02 and Z19-02.

Providence Professional Park: General Plan Amendment (GPA19-04) A request to amend the existing General Plan land use designation on approximately 5.0 acres from Public / Quasi-Public to Office / Local Commercial. The purpose of the request is to allow the development of a professional office building in the vacant area north of the existing church located 7825 W. Deer Valley Road.

There is a companion rezoning request associated with this proposal (Case Z1906). The scheduled City Council Hearing will be held on February 18, 2020 beginning at 7:00 p.m. for case GPA19-04 and Z19-06. Providence Professional Park: Rezoning (Z19-06) A request to rezone approximately 5.0 acres from the existing Suburban Ranch (SR-35) to Providence Professional Park Planned Area Development (PAD). This rezoning would allow for development of a professional office building in the vacant area north of the existing church located 7825 W. Deer Valley Road. This application is a companion case with Case GPA19-04.

The scheduled City Council Hearing will be held on February 18, 2020 beginning at 7:00 p.m. for case GPA19-04 and Z19-06. Ponderosa ReLeaf: Conditional Use Permit (CU19-12) A request for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to expand the existing Medical Marijuana Dispensary located in Suite 103A of the Peoria Crossing Commercial Center at 9240 W. Northern Avenue. If approved, the Conditional Use Permit would allow for an increase in square footage from 1,915 to 2,466 square feet. If appealed, the scheduled City Council Hearing will be held on February 18, 2020 beginning at 7:00 p.m. for case CU19-12. Published: Peoria Times, Dec 26, 2019 / 26741

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YOUTH

31

NOTICE OF BID

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is given pursuant to ARS §9-462.04, ARS §9461.09(A) and the City Code of Peoria, Arizona, that the Planning and Zoning Commission for the City of Peoria will hold a public hearing on Thursday, January 16, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. at the Peoria City Council Chambers, 8401 W. Monroe Street, Peoria Arizona 85345. Further information related to these requests or the Public Hearings may be obtained from the Planning Division of the Planning & Community Development Department, 9875 N. 85th Avenue, Peoria, Arizona 85345, or by calling the Planning Division at 623-773-7200.

Agenda items: Limitation on Uses: Text Amendment (TA19-03) A request to consider a privately initiated text amendment by Burch & Cracchiolo, P.A. to amend Section 21-505.A.5 of the Zoning Ordinance to modify the spacing constraints between a gas station building and its associated accessory equipment/structural components to a residentially zoned property. The scheduled City Council Hearing will be held on February 18, 2020 beginning at 7:00 p.m. for case TA19-03. Published: Peoria Times, Dec 26, 2019 / 26947

SUPREME COURT STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF OSWEGO SUMMONS WITH NOTICE, Index No. EFC2019-1232 LEON WAYNE PERLINGER and FREDERICK J. PERLINGER, Plaintiffs, -against- JANET D. PHIPPSFRANK, KATHIE PARMELEE, LILLIAN KELLY, RICHARD KELLY, JOHN SHELDON, RICHARD CASWELL, SUZAN SHELDON, - BRADFORD DIMMICK, GREGORY DIMMICK, JEAN DIMMICK WHITE, JINNY DIMMICK NOONE, And JOHN DOE and JANE DOE, intending to designate all the unknown heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees of Genevieve Thomas Sheldon, a/k/a Genevieve E. Thomas Sheldon, Deceased, Defendants. Plaintiff designates Oswego County as the place of trial. The basis of venue is location of real property at: 63 Gillespie Road Volney, NY Tax Map #: 236.02-07-03.200 Plaintiff residence: 8518 Boyce St. Spring Hill Florida 34608 To the above named Defendants: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the notice set forth below. TAKE NOTICE the nature of this action and the relief sought is to determine claim and quiet title to real property pursuant to Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law Article 5 and Article 15. That in case of your failure to appear judgment will be taken against you by default finding in favor of the Plaintiff. Dated: July 31, 2019 Joseph E. DeMari, Attorney at Law Germain & Germain, LLP Attorneys for the Plaintiffs 314 East Fayette Street Syracuse, New York 13202 Telephone: (315) 422-0314 Published: Glendale Star, Dec. 12, 19, 26, 2019 and Jan 2, 2020 / 26144

NOTICE FOR BID *** MATERIALS MANAGEMENT 9875 N. 85th Ave., 2nd Floor Peoria, Arizona 85345 Phone: (623) 773-7115 Fax: (623) 773-7118 BID NOTIFICATION INFORMATION SOLICITATION NUMBER: Q20-02 TYPE OF SOLICITATION: Request for Quotation BUYER NAME: Lisa Houg BUYER PHONE NUMBER: 623-773-7191 DESCRIPTION: Functional Movement / Citywide Stretching Program PRE-BID MEETING DATE: None SOLICITATION DUE DATE: January 7, 2020 @ 5:00 PM (Arizona Time ) Solicitation is available for download from our website at: www.peoriaaz.gov Published: Peoria Times, Dec. 26, 2019 / 26845

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS (For Publication) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN in the Matter of the Estate of: RANDEL F. MOUNT SR, Deceased, that Laura Canniff has been appointed as the Personal Representative of this estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or the claims will be forever barred. Claims must be presented by delivering or mailing a written statement of the claim to the Personal Representative, Laura Canniff, at 4664 W. Oberlin Place, Denver, CO 80236. Published: Peoria Times, Dec. 26, 2019, Jan 2, 9, 2020 / 26991

NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Matter of the Estate of Suzanne E Johnson, Deceased NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed as the Personal Representative of this estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or the claims will be forever barred. Claims must be presented by delivering or mailing a written statement of the claim to undersigned Personal Representative at 11035 E Johnson Ln, Cornville, AZ 86325.

DATED this 11th day of DECEMBER, 2019 /s/ Steven T Johnson. Published: Peoria Times, Dec 26, 2019, Jan 2, 9, 2020 / 27000

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice of Formation: MMAD Trucking LLC. Statutory Agent: United States Corporation Agents, Inc. 17470 N. Pacesetter Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85255. Business Address: 7136 W. Columbine Drive, Peoria, AZ 85381. Management of the LLC is reserved to the Members Alejandro Malanche III and Paige Malanche, 7136 W. Columbine Drive, Peoria, AZ 85381. Published: Peoria Times, Dec 19, 26, 2019, Jan 2, 2019 / 26740

READER NOTICE:

Arizona Registrar of Contractors Advertising by Contractors In any advertising for services, performed by licensed con-tractors, the following guidelines may be useful to prevent false and misleading advertisements. * Any advertisement, including the name of the business, should not imply the name of a building trade or craft for which the contractor is not duly licensed. * Advertisements, including the name of the business, should not imply that you can perform work outside the scope of work allowed under your license. * Commercial and residential contracting are regulated separately, and therefore the license should be appropriate for the work you are promoting. * All advertising, including websites, letterheads, business cards, fixed signs, mobile signs, other business forms and doc-uments and radio and television commercials used in the con-duct of business under your license should include the license number and the company name under which you are licensed.

Written forms of advertising should include “ROC” preceding any license number.

Referencing the ROC on Websites Internet websites referencing the Arizona Registrar of Con-tractors are requested to include hypertext links to https://roc.az.gov, the Arizona Registrar of Contractors’ website.

Advertising by unlicensed contractors Contracting or Ad-vertising Without a License is a Crime.

Source https://roc.az.gov/contracts

Peoria Times

32 CLASSIFIEDS

EMPLOYMENT

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December 26, 2019

Peoria Times

December 26, 2019

Classifieds The Place “To Find” Everything You Need

EMPLOYMENT

VALLEYLIFE is a non-profit organization that provides programs and services to men, women, and children with developmental disabilities.

Full Time and Part Time Caregivers Needed!

Must have reliable transportation We are currently looking for caregivers to work in group homes throughout Glendale, Phoenix, Peoria and Scottsdale. Must pass background check.

Please apply at www.valleylifeaz.org

EMPLOYMENT

A KBS Company

Varsity Facility Services is hiring for Part-Time and Full Time Janitorial positions for offices in the City of Glendale.

Applicants must have some janitorial experience, must be dependable and able to communicate with client and supervisor. Applicants must have reliable transportation, must be authorized to work in the United States and pass a Background Check.

Apply in person at: 8930 N 78th Ave., Peoria, AZ 85345 from 9:00am - 4:00pm Monday thru Friday.

Varsity está solicitando personas para limpieza de oficinas en la Cuidad de Glendale.

Los solicitantes deben tener alguna experiencia de limpieza, ser confiable y capaz de comunicarse con el cliente y supervisor, deben tener transportación confiable. Deben pasar una verificación de antecedentes, y ser autorizados a trabajar en los Estados Unidos.

Aplique en persona al: 8930 N 78th Ave., Peoria, AZ 85345 de 9:00 am a 4:00 pm de lunes a viernes.

Varsity está solicitando personas para limpieza de oficinas en la Cuidad de Glendale.

EMPLOYMENT

Agriculture Packing & Processing Work Looking to staff all positions for a carrot packing facility in Tolleson; including maintenance, packing, stacking, machine operating, forklift operators, receiving and quality control. Day and night shifts available. Please apply in person Monday through Friday between 8 AM-3:30 PM at the following address: Rousseau Farming Company 9601 W Harrison Tolleson, AZ 85353 Trabajo de embalaje y procesamiento de la agricultura Buscando el personal de todos los puestos para una instalación de empaque de zanahoria en Tolleson; incluyendo mantenimiento, embalaje, apilamiento, operación de la máquina, operadores de carretillas elevadoras, recepción y control de calidad. Turnos de día y de noche disponibles. Por favor, solicite en persona de lunes a viernes entre las 8 AM-3:30 PM en la siguiente dirección: Rousseau Farming Company 9601 W Harrison Tolleson, AZ 85353

CLASSIFIEDS 33

Peoria Times 250 N Litchfield Rd, Ste. 100, Goodyear AZ 85338

623.847.4600

Deadlines

Classifieds: Friday 10am for the following Thursday publication.

Business & Service Directory, Legals and Life Events Thursday at Noon for the following Thursday publication.

PeoriaTiimes.com • class@timespublications.com

APTS/CONDOS FOR RENT TANNER TERRACE APARTMENTS A Non-Smoking Facility 7138 N. 45th Avenue Glendale, AZ 85301

TANNER TERRAZA APARTAMENTOS Un complejo residencial para no fumadores 7138 N. Avenida 45 Glendale, AZ 85301

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

AHORA ACEPTAMOS APLICACIONES

ALL ONE BEDROOMS Subsidized Section 8-202 62 years old And Mobility Impaired Persons Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:30pm

TODOS DE UN DORMITORIO Subvencionado sección 8-202 62 años Y personas discapacitadas fisicas Lunes-Viernes 8:00 am a 4:30 pm

623-939-9447

623-939-9447

EMPLOYMENT RECREATION CENTERS OF SUN CITY WEST FACILITIES ASSISTANT–FT, 3pm-11pm, M-F, with full benefits and two PT positions with partial benefits - $11.00 p/h. Sweeping floors, showers, restroom, pool deck and other areas, emptying trashcans, maintaining/cleaning bathrooms and hall area, setting up tables/chairs for events. Must be able to work with cleaning chemicals. Previous custodial exp, knowledge of commercial vacuums, floor scrubbers, gas powered blowers preferred; varies locations/hours/days/weekends.

GREENSKEEPERS - $12.32 p/h, FT/PT with benefits Manual labor. Must be able to work communicate in English, work weekends and OT. Previous golf exp. preferred.

LANDSCAPE WORKER - FT Mon-Fri $11.25/hour with benefits. Plan, care and maintain recreational grounds for the community; including trimming, weeding, raking and water plants. Experienced in use of small power tools and lawn maintenance equipment.

Apply online/view more jobs: employment.suncitywest.com or at Human Resources, 19803 N. R. H. Johnson Blvd, Sun City West, AZ 85375. The above positions include golf when availability is open. All positions must be able to communicate in English.

All positions are open until filled. EOE

EMPLOYMENT

AUTOS -FOR SALE

Now hiring janitors for office cleaning in various valley locations.

Please apply in person at ACE Building Maintenance 7020 N 55th Ave Glendale, AZ 85301.

Se solita personal para limpieza de Oficina en varias localidades del valle.

Favor de aplicar en persona a ACE Building Maintenance 7020 N 55th Ave Glendale, AZ 85301.

2016 TOYOTA TUNDRA CRW MAX SR5 GRAY 190329A $21995 www.SandersonFord.com.

1-800-601-1908 2014 CHEV SILVERADO 1500 CRW WORK TRUCJ 4.3L WHITE 195015A $14995 www.SandersonFord.com.

1-800-601-1908

AUTOS -FOR SALE

2015 CHEV SILVERADO 3500 4WD LTZ DRW 6.6L BLUE 194454A $35995 www.SandersonFord.com.

1-800-601-1908

2009 KIA SORENTO LX LOADED SILVER 194936A $6995 www.SandersonFord.com.

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2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GLS LOADED BLUE 29363A $7995 www.SandersonFord.com.

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2017 CADILLAC XT5 5DR LOADED RED 195987A $22995 www.SandersonFord.com.

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2014 DODGE CHARGER 4DR STX LOADED BLUE 194237B $14995 www.SandersonFord.com.

1-800-601-1908

2011 NISSAN ROGUE SV LOADED RED 195772A $7995 www.SandersonFord.com.

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2014 FORD ESCAPE SE LOADED SILVER 195454A $12995 www.SandersonFord.com.

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HOMES FOR RENT

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2, 3 & 4-bedroom homes to all qualified applicants.

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Peoria Times

34 CLASSIFIEDS

December 26, 2019

623.847.4600 4600 BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY AUTOS -FOR SALE

2016 HONDA ODYSSEY EX LOADED STEEL 203074B $19995 www.SandersonFord.com.

1-800-601-1908

GARAGE SALES/ BAZAARS Vendor Space Available

in Serenity Plaza 8815 W. Peoria Ave., Ste. 5 Peoria, AZ 85345 For more info. call Mary 623-248-0280

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE Mr. Baseball, coming to Glendale, buying sports cards and memorabilia, 203-767-2407

APPLIANCE SERVICES

$100-$500+ Cash for Junk Cars all "as is" autos! Good condition more $$$$. Best Prices!

Fast, free pickup.

623-329-2043

AZCANS PHARMACY Technician Training Programs From Ultimate Medical Academy Offer Quality Healthcare Education to Students 100% online.- Ultimate Medical Academy: 855-781-0908 (AzCAN) OXYGEN - Anytime. Anywhere. No tanks to refill. No deliveries. The All-New Inogen One G4 is only 2.8 pounds! FAA approved !

FREE info kit: 866-397-4003 (AzCAN)

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ir Labor We Repair: • Refrigerators • Freezers • Icemakers • Dryers • Washers • Ovens • Ranges • Stoves • Dishwashers • and much more

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Brands We Service: • Sub-Zero • Whirlpool • GE • Maytag • Amana • Kitchen Aide • LG • Samsung

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Want to purchase minerals and other oil/gas interests Send details to: P. O. Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201

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Peoria Times

December 26, 2019

CLASSIFIEDS 35

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY

623.847.4600 LANDSCAPING

MARINE SERVICES

POOL SERVICES

REMODELING

LOPEZ

SPORTS CENTER

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PLUMBING

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36

Peoria Times

December 26, 2019