West Valley View - May 3, 2017

STATE CHAMP!

Estrella Foothills’

Zoey Nelson wins title again — Page 12.

CINCO DE MAYO

Avondale holding fiesta to commemorate Mexican holiday — Page 5.

Helping the homeless

West Valley program claims 1st successes in getting people off streets

by Glenn Gullickson staff writer

Last winter, Josephine Jonzalez was walking the streets and sleeping under a tree in Avondale.

But after spending a couple of months in a program to help the homeless organized by several West Valley churches, Jonzalez is settling into her own apartment.

Jonzalez is one of the first success stories of the Interfaith Homeless Emergency Lodging Program, or IHELP, which started in January as an effort to help people who are living on the streets.

Several local churches rotate the responsibilities for offering shelter for up to 10 homeless adults for up to 90 days while establishing a plan for self-sufficiency.

“When we’re able to help them get into their own housing, I call them ‘graduates,’” the Rev. Jack Marslender, pastor of the First Southern Baptist Church in Avondale, said of the program spearheaded by the Avondale Interfaith Council, a group of faith and community leaders.

Marslender said the program is looking for two to four additional churches to join the eight churches that take turns offering nightly shelter.

He said the program, which started with one person on the night it opened, has grown so quickly that it hopes to increase the number of homeless people it helps.

Interest in the program indicates the need, according to Connie Phillips, president and CEO of Lutheran Social Services, the agency that is administering IHELP and works with similar programs in the East Valley.

“It shows there is a pent-up demand. People want some support,” Phillips said. “We don’t want people sleeping on the street.”

Marslender said 30 people have spent at least one night at one of the shelters. While some of the homeless don’t stick with it, four of IHELP’s “graduates” have found housing.

“The program helped us when we hit rock bottom and picked us up,” Jonzalez said.

Jonzalez, 62, a lifelong Avondale resident, admitted she has “struggled through life,” leaving high school when she was pregnant just three credits short of graduation, then divorcing twice as she coped with depression and sobriety issues.

Last fall, she lost the trailer she shared with her boyfriend.

“We were doing wonderful, then, bang, he said, ‘I’m leaving,’” Jonzalez remembered. “I got stuck being homeless.”

What followed was days of walking so much that she lost about 100 pounds, showering at a food bank that provided sack lunches, occasionally begging for money and sleeping under what she called “my favorite tree” along Dysart Road.

“One time it got so cold, nothing was helping. I had to walk to keep warm,” she remembered.

She heard about IHELP and became the third person to join the program, which has a schedule that helps create some structure for the homeless.

A night at the shelter

On a recent Thursday — First Southern Baptist’s day to provide shelter — the program’s participants were provided a ride from Care1st Avondale Resource Center in Old Town Avondale or walked to the church before the shelter opened at about 4:30 p.m.

During a day when temperatures rose into the 90s, the homeless said they had spent most of the daylight hours looking for a place to stay

View launches food drive

Annual appeal helps cover summer needs

by Glenn Gullickson staff writer

Hunger never takes a vacation, but donations to food banks usually peak during the holidays and decrease over the summer months.

It’s a dilemma that the West Valley View’s annual summer food drive hopes to help remedy.

For the 12th year, the West Valley View is conducting a summer food drive collecting nonperishable food through the end of May.

Donations may be made at boxes set up at the West Valley View’s office in Avondale and several West Valley businesses that advertise with the newspaper.

Three West Valley food banks will benefit from the drive, which was created to help the organizations through the summer slump.

Since the newspaper’s first food drive in 2006, 64,897 pounds of food have been collected.

But last summer’s drive collected 2,122 pounds of food, less than half of the previous year’s total.

“Donations this time of year slow down,” said

(See Homeless on Page 3)(See Food drive on Page 5)

View photo by Jordan Christopher

PARKER JONES of Jones Ford Buckeye, left, and West Valley View advertising consultant Julius Tiritilli set up a food drive box April 28 at the West Valley car dealership.

View photo by Ray Thomas

PARTICIPANTS of the Interfaith Homeless Emergency Lodging Program prepare for dinner with a prayer April 27 at First Southern Baptist Church in Avondale.

Homeless

cool before going to the shelter.

As the homeless were checked in, their bags were searched for substances or anything that could be a weapon, and even pocketknives — a useful tool for the homeless — were turned over for the night.

At about 5:30 p.m., dinner arrived courtesy of one of the adult Sunday school classes that takes turns preparing the meal, which is often comfort food, such as lasagna, meatballs, ham or Mexican dishes and dessert.

First Southern Baptist sets up the shelter in a building used for youth classes, with the room used for dinner becoming the sleeping area for the men. Women sleep in another room. Mens and womens restrooms have showers the homeless can use.

During the evening, there are opportunities for prayer, but participants said religion isn’t forced on them in the church shelters.

Marslender said the plan had been for lights out at 10 p.m., but the homeless can be ready to bed down on mats provided by IHELP as early as 8:30 p.m.

They are up by 6 a.m. to get ready for the ride back to Care1st.

The shelters are staffed by a group of about 50 volunteers, mostly members of the churches offering shelter, Marslender said.

First Southern Baptist has a group of eight volunteers who work in pairs in four-hour shifts during the night, according to Ross Clemens, who was made coordinator of the program for the church after he offered to help.

“I felt called to do it,” he said. “It takes a team effort. We hope that we’re making a difference.”

Clemens opens the shelter, then returns for the 4 to 8 a.m. shift to close it up.

“Our guests become like family,” said Donna Williams, another volunteer.

But she noted there are expectations for the homeless people.

“We don’t do anything for them they

can do for themselves,” she said.

Developing a plan

Jonzalez said the program isn’t easy as the homeless people have responsibilities to set up the shelter and in the morning, get up, clean up and help out.

“They would push us,” she said.

“They were very tough. We had to be tough, too. They didn’t want us crying all the time.”

The homeless meet with a case worker to develop a plan for housing, a task Marslender said can start with basic things, such as obtaining an identification card, establishing a mailing address or reconnecting with family members.

“That gives them the sense of ‘OK, I can do this,’” he said.

Goodwill helps with employment opportunities, he said.

For Jonzalez, the program meant being reunited with her teenage daughter and moving into a two-bedroom apartment in Avondale.

Marslender said the homeless served by the program range in age from 18 into

the 60s, and men outnumber women by a three-to-one margin, but he’s noticed that women seem to be more motivated to keep returning.

A variety of circumstances can lead to homelessness, including the loss of a job, addictions or health issues, Phillips said.

“People have a lot of stories about what makes them homeless,” she said. “We serve people who have graduate degrees.”

Jeff Bernhardt, 55, said he was a firefighter in California for 27 years before he retired, then lost his pension, got divorced and became homeless.

“When I lost everything, I went off the deep end,” said Bernhardt, who has been homeless for about three years and moved to Arizona to be closer to his children.

“Never in a million years did I think I’d be here,” Bernhardt said as he checked into the shelter. “It could happen to anyone at anytime.”

Bernhardt said he hopes to go back to work, but for now, he passes the evenings playing his guitar and working on a song with another shelter resident.

Bernhardt said the program is helping.

“They’re giving me a safe place to be at night, food, clothing and shelter,” he said.

The program’s needs

Marslender said churches participating in the program offer shelter 24 out of 30 nights, leaving some weekend nights when the homeless are back on the streets.

“We want it to be a seven-night-aweek program,” said Marslender, who is appealing for other churches to join the effort.

The need to provide shelter every night becomes critical as the demand for help is expected to increase along with the temperatures.

“When it’s hot, it’s going to be hard to say, ‘Good-bye and good luck staying cool’” on days a shelter isn’t available, Williams said.

Phillips said the program’s rules help create what she called a “sense of safety” for the churches and participants.

IHELP has been using a volunteer caseworker, but Phillips said her agency is hiring for the position and noted the program needs a steady source of funding to cover the salary and other expenses.

The program is currently funded by grants from private foundations and individual contributions, Phillips said.

An application for funding from the county is pending, she said.

Other churches providing shelter weekly or every other week are World of Life Christian Center and River City Church, both in Avondale, Arizona Vineyard Church, Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, Refinery Christian Church and New Foundation Church, all in Goodyear, and St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Litchfield Park.

Marslender noted that other churches have contributed food and supplies to the project.

Program sign-ups may be done from 9 a.m. to noon Monday-Friday at Care1st, 328 W. Western Ave., Avondale. For more information, contact Robert Sanders at Lutheran Social Services at 480-654-4539.

Glenn Gullickson can be reached at ggullickson@westvalleyview.com.

View photo by Jordan Christopher

JOSEPHINE JONZALEZ of Avondale smiles outside her home April 20. Jonzalez is a “graduate” of the Interfaith Homeless Emergency Lodging Program.

Goodyear man accused of using stun gun on son

View report

Goodyear police arrested a man April 21 for allegedly using a stun gun on his son, according to a news release.

Darryl Ingram, 49, of Goodyear was taken into custody for allegedly abusing his 11-yearold son, police said.

According to police, Ingram’s son told his school bus driver of the alleged abuse. The driver reported the incident to school officials, who then contacted police.

Arizona Revised Statute 13-320 is a mandatory reporting statute that says schools must immediately notify police if they believe a child has been subject to abuse.

The most recent incident occurred on or around April 19, according to court records.

According to a probable cause statement, the Department of Child Services was notified of the incident April 20 by staff from the child’s school. DCS then notified Goodyear police the next day. The Office of Child Welfare Investigations was also involved.

The child told authorities Ingram uses a stun gun on him when he does not do his homework, the report stated. The boy also revealed several past incidents in which Ingram either used the gun or hit his son with a cane, or whooped him to the point bleeding occurred. In one of the incidents, Ingram gave his son the choice of being whooped 40 times or getting Tased. The son chose the stun gun option, according to the report.

In a post Miranda interview, Ingram told officials he used the stun gun on his son to show him what it feels like so he would not use it, according to reports.

Police located the gun in the vehicle of Ingram’s 21-year-old son.

Ingram has since been released from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Fourth Avenue Jail. He faces a Class 3 felony of child abuse. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 12.

DPS vehicle strikes 13-year-old girl in Litchfield Park

View report

A 13-year-old girl was transported to the hospital Tuesday evening after being struck by a DPS trooper’s vehicle in Litchfield Park, according to a sheriff’s spokesman.

The accident occurred before 6 p.m. near the intersection of Dysart and Camelback roads.

According to Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Calbert Gillett, an Arizona Department of Public Safety trooper hit a pedestrian with his issued vehicle.

The pedestrian, a 13-year-old girl, was not in a crosswalk, Gillett said. She was transported to Phoenix Children’s Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

DPS was notified, and MCSO will handle the investigation.

Buckeye police issue

sex offender notice

View report

Buckeye police have issued a notification about a sex offender who has moved into the city.

Leslie Wilson, 46, lives in the 23700 block of West Hidalgo Avenue, near Watson Road and Southern Avenue.

He was convicted in 2016 out of Casa Grande on two counts of sexual conduct with a minor and one count of luring a minor for sexual exploitation. It is unknown if he knew his victim.

Authorities have classified Wilson as a Level III, or high risk, sex offender.

The alert is the result of the Arizona sex offender law that took effect in 1996. The law requires community notification for some sex offenders.

Demolition Derby back in Buckeye

by Chris Caraveo staff writer

The most fun you can have on a Saturday night in Buckeye returns for its first of two nights in 2017.

The Buckeye Demolition Derby will be Saturday at the Helzapoppin’ Rodeo Arena, 802 N. First St., on Miller Road just south of Baseline Road in Buckeye.

The derby has sold out its 3,000-seat occupancy the last three years, according to Myra Curtis, Buckeye’s community engagement manager.

WHAT: Buckeye Demolition Derby WHEN: Gates open at 5:30 p.m., event starts at 7 p.m. Saturday

WHERE: Helzapoppin’ Rodeo Arena, 802 N. First St., Buckeye

COST: $10 for adults, $5 for children 6 to 12, free for children 5 and younger. A family package for $25 includes two adults and two children.

“We always tell people to come early because there might not be a seat,” she said.

The derby involves more than 12 vehicles smashing each other inside the grounds until one is left running.

Drivers remove mirrors and windows from their vehicles, and chain the doors, hood and trunk shut.

Come derby time, the participants knock their vehicles around a congested, muddy arena until all but one are out of commission. A driver signals a vehicle is no good by removing a flag situated on the vehicle.

The vehicle has to be a 1979 model or newer, and cannot be a compact car, van or SUV.

The drivers compete for a portion of $3,000 in prize money.

Derby proceeds go toward the arena’s grounds, Curtis said.

The city installed 300 new seats at Helzapoppin’ in the fall of 2016, with most of the money coming from derby proceeds, she said.

The Buckeye Chamber of Commerce started the derby in 1992, and it was an annual event up until 2000. Since then, the derby has been conducted twice a year with events in May and September.

Deanna Kupcik, chamber president and CEO, said a rodeo contractor showed the city how demolition derbies are put on in Alamosa, Colo.

“It has just grown from there,” Kupcik said.

Now the derby is a Buckeye tradition.

People from Buckeye and around the Valley, Yuma, Flagstaff, California, Utah and Colorado flock to the event.

“There’s really no way to explain the energy,” Curtis said. “People are on their feet.”

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) are hosting public meetings to present corridor alternatives for Interstate 11 between Nogales and Wickenburg.

YOUR INPUT IS NEEDED!

Meeting attendees will be able to review and comment on the proposed alternatives. The alternatives were developed as part of the environmental study and based on input from the agency and public scoping meetings held in 2016, technical analysis, findings from previous studies, and public comment through postal mail, email, telephone and the I-11 website.

Six public meetings are being held throughout the study area, including Wickenburg, Buckeye, Casa Grande, Marana, Tucson and Nogales. The same information will be presented at each meeting. Public input is necessary to advance the work done by the team to narrow the universe of alternatives to the reasonable range of alternatives that will be presented at these meetings.

I-11 is a critical piece of multimodal infrastructure that will diversify, support, and connect the economies of Arizona and Nevada. It also

linking Mexico and Canada. The purpose of

that has

transportation

facilitating regional connectivity, trade, communications and

Darryl Ingram

Leslie Wilson

Food drive

(From Page 1)

Leanne Leonard, executive director of the Agua Fria Food & Clothing Bank, which distributes food at locations in Avondale and Tonopah.

Leonard said donations are down from last year.

“We’re feeling the pinch,” she said.

The Rev. Mike Sims, who serves as director of the Tolleson Food Bank along with his wife, Teri, said the need is acute.

“We need everything all the time, we really do,” Sims said.

Cassie Wilkins, director of All Faith Community Services Food Bank in Buckeye, agreed that donations have fallen off recently and food bank pantries need to be restocked.

Wilkins said her agency distributes an average of 2,076 emergency food boxes a month, with about 1,600 of those provided by St. Mary’s Food Bank, which is based in Phoenix.

Food bank directors appealed for grocery staples, such as pasta and sauce, cereal, rice, beans, chili and other canned goods.

Items with high-protein content — such as peanut butter and tuna — also make good donations.

“Anything that would make a meal” is a welcome donation, said Leonard, whose organization distributes 250 emergency food boxes a week and scores of sack lunches daily.

She said water is also a big need.

Even though the economy has been improving, food bank directors said there has been no let up in the demand for help.

Summer food drive

The West Valley View’s annual summer food drive benefits the following sites:

• Agua Fria Food & Clothing Bank, 405 E. Harrison St. in Avondale; 623-932-9135. Open 8 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday.

• Agua Fria Food & Clothing Bank Tonopah site, 36827 W. Indian School Road in Tonopah; 623-932-9135. Open 9 a.m. to noon Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

• All Faith Community Services Buckeye Food Bank, 214 S. Fifth St. in Buckeye; 623-386-3513. Open 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

• Tolleson Food Bank at the Tolleson Assembly of God, 10 S. 93rd Ave. in Tolleson; 623-9365199. Gives away food from 6 to 9 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday. A donation is requested.

To see a list of locations where you can donate food, see Page 17 in today’s edition of the paper. If you donate directly to the food banks, let them know that you heard about the drive in the View so it’s counted toward this year’s total.

West Valley food banks have a range of clients from homeless who might need something to eat immediately to families who need help putting dinner on the table.

Summer poses special needs for families.

“More families come in during the summertime,” Sims said. “The children aren’t going to school getting their free breakfasts and lunches.”

Wilkins speculated that while more people are working, many are underemployed at low-wage jobs that don’t cover all their expenses, causing them to seek food aid.

She expressed concern that proposed federal budget cuts will slash government assistance for those in need and create even greater demands on food banks.

Sims said cuts to the food stamp program will have an impact on the organizations.

“I think food banks are going to be more pressured to fill those gaps,” he said.

He said he’s noticed more people showing up at the Tolleson Food Bank, with 100 to 150 people picking up food on Tuesdays and 50 to 60 food boxes distributed on Thursdays.

The Tolleson Food Bank also provides food to seven food ministries, some of which feed people on the street in the West Valley.

He encouraged people to give to local food banks.

“We feed their neighbors,” he said. “We never turn anyone away.”

Donations can cover library fines

Donating food during May can be a win-win for folks who need to return overdue books to the Avondale Public Library.

Through the end of the month, the library’s “Food for Fines” program will accept contributions of nonperishable food items to cover library fines.

Items collected will be used to restock the shelves of local food banks.

For every nonperishable food item donated, $1 will be deducted off a library patron’s account, up to a maximum of $50.

Food for Fines does not include replacement fees for lost or damaged materials, collection agency fees, printing or processing fees, card replacement fees or future overdue fines.

Homemade food, glass containers, expired, opened or damaged food items will not be accepted.

Donations will be accepted at both Avondale libraries — the Civic Enter Library at 11350 W. Civic Center Drive and the Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library at 495 E. Western Ave.

For more information, call the Avondale Public Library at 623-333-2665.

Avondale to celebrate Cinco de Mayo

by Glenn Gullickson staff writer

Since Cinco de Mayo falls on Friday this year, an Avondale street festival will be held on the actual date of the Mexican holiday that inspires the event.

Avondale Fiesta will be Friday on Western Avenue in Historic Avondale.

WHAT: Avondale

Fiesta WHEN: 5-10 p.m.

Friday WHERE: 495

E. Western Ave., Avondale COST: Free admission; food and beverage available for purchase INFO: 623-333-2400

“It’s a highlight of the Southwest Valley to have the event on Cinco de Mayo,” said Christina Underhill, who is coordinating the festival as assistant director of the Avondale Parks, Recreation and Libraries Department.

The festival will feature lucha libre wrestling, a tag-team style developed in Mexico that’s known for wrestlers in colorful masks performing high-flying maneuvers.

“We had them last year and everyone seemed to enjoy it,” Underhill said. “It’s fun for the whole family.”

Visitors can meet the wrestlers from 7 to 8 p.m. before they start their matches.

Lucha libre masks will be available for sale and a face painter will paint mask designs on children.

Other entertainment will include music and dancing, including performances by Ballet Folklorico Esperanza and mariachi music provided by Mariachi Corazon de Mi Tierra, Mariachi Juvenil de Mi Tierra and Mariachi Chapala.

“There will be good entertainment for the entire five hours,” said Underhill, who expects thousands to attend.

“People can choose to stay a little while or the whole time.”

The festival will be decorated with lights and flags and the area will be fenced off, making the whole event a beer garden, Underhill said. Margaritas will also be available.

Mexican food will be available at restaurants along Western Avenue or from six to eight food vendors, including food trucks.

Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexican army’s victory of the French in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.

West Valley Women’s C Care

Gema Fernandez, M.D.

Maria R. DiLeo, M.D.

Kim Roberts, W.H.N.P.

Cari L. Cowling, M.D.

James M. Johnson, M.D.

Briggs J. Geier, D.O.

Raymond D. Suarez, M.D.

Senate Bill 1080 a good start, but more work needed

Gov. Doug Ducey took the first step in making Arizona’s highways and byways safer last week when he signed Senate Bill 1080 into law.

SB 1080 bans the use of wireless devices while driving for teenagers during the permit phase and first six months of the graduated license phase. Exceptions include emergencies “when stopping the motor vehicle is impossible or will create an additional emergency or safety hazard” and the use of audible turn-by-turn navigation devices as long as the destination is not manually entered into the device while driving and as long as the device is not manually adjusted while driving.

While we’re thrilled that we’re finally addressing this epidemic, we still have a long way to go.

Violating SB 1080 is a secondary offense, meaning a police officer can’t stop or cite a driver he observes texting. He can only cite the driver for violating SB 1080 after he’s pulled him over for a primary offense, such as speeding.

It makes sense. There is no way for a police officer to ascertain the age of the driver simply by looking at him. Running a check on the license plate will only show who the vehicle is registered to, not who is driving.

But an overall ban would solve that.

It’s not a novel idea.

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, 46 states ban text messaging for all drivers, and all but five have made violating the ban a primary offense.

Many Arizona legislators and even the governor himself aren’t in favor of an overall ban, but we stand by what we said in last week’s editorial: age makes no difference. Thirty-somethings aren’t more adept at texting while driving than teenagers.

While the governor made a good point when he said, “If we can use the early years of their driving experience as an opportunity to guide them toward safe and responsible habits, that’s a good thing,” how will our older drivers be guided if they’re allowed to continue bad habits?

Our representatives may be in favor of allowing adults to text while driving, but we’re not, and they work for us.

If you believe, as we do, that Arizona needs to join the other 46 states with overall texting bans, tell your legislators. Like we said last week, we don’t think they even realize what they’re fighting for or against. No one in his right mind could actually think texting while driving is perfectly safe as long as the driver is an adult with more behind-the-wheel experience. If experience were the benchmark, we’re sure plenty of teens could argue the opposite: adults may have more experience behind the wheel, but teenagers have more experience behind the cell phone.

Tell your legislators to check their slippery slope paranoia at the car door and get to work on an overall texting while driving ban.

To find out who your legislators are, go to http://www.azleg.gov/findmylegislator/.

Our Viewpoint editorials represent the opinions of the West Valley View editorial board, which is composed of Publisher Elliott Freireich and Managing Editor Cary Hines.

OUR READERS’ VIEWPOINTS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

L etters to

the

editor are published without any editing. Any errors in spelling, punctuation or grammar are those of the author. Two online reader polls have indicated that a majority of View readers prefer that the letters not be edited.

Editor’s note: The West Valley View will not print any Letters to the Editor criticizing either Goodyear candidate in the May 10 issue because it is the last issue before the May 16 runoff election and candidates would not have a chance to defend themselves.

AG visit was a big deal

Editor:

I think it is a pretty big deal to have the Attorney General of the US visit here in the West Valley and speak at Luke Air Force Base, but apparently it wasn’t a big enough deal to garner much news coverage. Certainly he was here to visit the border and speak about our immigration problems, but it is quite wonderful that Governor Ducey took him to Luke to see the incredible fleet of F-35s. The west valley is so fortunate to be the international

pilot training center for these wonderful jets that one would think it would be worth some mention. I bet General Sessions is telling everyone he encounters just how great these F-35s are for our continuing air superiority.

Jan Mallon Avondale

Writer should take own advice

Editor: To Mr. Alan Rockman in regards to his 4/12 letter, I seem to have stuck a nerve in terms of Palestinian land being stolen. While he may deem my view as “myopic,” others consider it progressive. It is progress to abide by agreed terms instead of using power to take land by force. Rockman states that “the land NEVER belonged to Palestinian Arab Islamists in the first place.” The world is over 4 billion years old. We’ll never know what land belonged to who “first.” But that’s not what we’re talking about here. We’re talking about continued imperialism and oppression in the 21st century. Have horrible atrocities occurred on many sides historically? Yes. Does that absolve current

violence and domination abroad or domestically (see noDAPL)?

Absolutely not. The 1947 boundaries were clear and the land taken since has all been from one side. Rockman speaks of a “nonstop cycle of violence and hatred” but fails to mention that Israelis have killed 3 times as many Palestinians. Or that the population was less than 10% Jewish for centuries before the 20th. Finally Rockman quips that “maybe Keeley might choose facts instead of spew and learn realities.” I suggest he take his own advice. Rockman tries to compare 3 billion dollars in military aid we give Israel every year with Iranian assets we froze, for the specific purpose of pressuring a deal, and subsequently returned in exchange for averting another war which would be much worse than Iraq. It comes as no surprise than that Iran receives no military aid while Israel gets more than any other country we aren’t at war with and 3 times more than the second country. “Just Sayin’.” America has and will continue to be a good friend to Israel despite their government’s actions. Asalamalakum

Trevor Keeley Goodyear

(See Letters on Page 7)

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(From Page 6)

Saddened by vandalism

Editor:

It was with great sadness that I heard the news that the Goodyear Farms Historic Cemetery had been vandalized. Obviously, the person or persons who committed this heinous act, don’t know the history of the good people who are buried there. They were, by every standard and measurement, true Americans. Most of the families go back a century or more in this country. These men and women worked long and hard hours making Goodyear Farms and The Wigwam successful not only nationally, but internationally. And they founded one of the largest Catholic churches in the state of Arizona — St. Thomas Aquinas. They dug the canals, drilled the wells, cleared the land, put in the electrical systems, built the roads, erected the buildings, planted the seeds, perfected the farming methods, cared for the cattle and horses, and tended the trees and flowers. They also fought in WWII, with one mother sending her five sons into battle. Some lost their lives in that effort, sacrificing themselves for this country. Their descendants continue to work hard and have taught in our universities and schools, served in our government, protected us on our police forces, worked in medicine, and served in our armed forces. Their cultural thread has enriched the American tapestry with beautiful folk dances, wonderful food, and lovely music; and words from their melodious language name our streets and other areas in the Southwest Valley.

To the vandals — whoever you are — you have caused great pain to these good people and brought tears to their eyes. I know — they are among my friends. I’m appalled at the desecration of this sacred site. Such hateful behavior toward innocent people will not be

tolerated. You have disgraced yourself and your country. I cannot stand by and leave this matter without publicly commenting on it.

Judy Cook Litchfield Park Historical Society and Museum vice president

Vote Hampton for Goodyear

Editor: VOTE FOR BRANNON HAMPTON FOR CITY COUNCIL. Brannon has all the attributes that support his high qualifications for a position on the Goodyear City Council. He has excellent educational background and years of working in a professional environment requiring business and operational decisions and policy. Goodyear City Council is charged with making policy that dictates high standards and responsibilities on city management, personnel, and operations. The Mayor and Council do not take this responsibility lightly. In this current election, the residents of Goodyear must elect a person that will meet these responsibilities, with qualifications that can provide intelligent input, discussion, and opinions, from the start of their term of office. Brannon Hampton is the one in this current election to meet this criteria.

Brannon spent a year and a half as a member of the 2025 Goodyear General Plan Committee. He graduated from the Goodyear Citizens Academy, was a past Board Member of the Arizona Small Business Association for three years, and volunteers for various local organizations.

Brannon will contribute additional diversity into the makeup of Goodyear City Council. He will represent both the residents and business interest of all of Goodyear, not just one segment of the community

His educational accomplishments, judgment, and decision making skills in the business world, is a real contrast

to his opponent, a candidate with many years as a “stay at home mom” with a resume of no history of public responsibility in the business or government areas. A vote for Brannon Hampton is a smart vote in this election; continuation of Goodyear’s progress and recognition as one of the best places in Arizona to live, both for the retired and for the younger families to raise a family.

Jerry Wigal Goodyear

Rates not 2nd highest in U.S.

Editor:

A letter to the Editor in the April 12 issue that was titled “Water rates 2nd highest in U.S.” really caught my eye. What was this website and am I really paying that much I asked. And so I educated myself.

The writer referenced a study found on foodandwaterwatch. org . I located the survey that listed annual water costs, FROM JANUARY 2015. BASED ON ANNUAL USAGE OF 60,000 GALLONS. First error- The writer had based his claim on 7,000 gallons per month: 84,000 gallons annually. So far, I’ve learned that I can use 24,000 more gallons a year than someone in Flint, Michigan and still pay less. Next step- Calculate using water rates in effect in January 2015,not current rates! According to the City of Buckeye website, in January of 2015, I would have had a meter charge of $22.35/month and pay $2.97/ per 1000gallons. Assuming I used 5000 gallons monthly to equal 60,000 gallons for the year. Final result- In January of 2015, the City of Buckeye would have been ranked #93 on the study, right behind the City of Santa Clara, California. Be informed and keep our city officials accountable. But let’s be sure we’re comparing “gallons to gallons” not “apples to oranges”

Kenneth Judd Buckeye

State’s legacy is rancher, not wolf

Editor:

Recently, a citizen expressed her concerns about Senator Flake’s bill proposing to update the recovery program for the Mexican gray wolf. I write in an effort to ease her concerns.

This citizen stated that the wolf is a part of Arizona’s great legacy. A far greater Arizona legacy is that of its cattle ranchers. Arizona’s ranching families have dedicated their lives not only to producing safe, affordable beef, but also to preserving our state’s grazing lands, ensuring that our children have the same opportunities to enjoy our beautiful state.

US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) efforts to re-introduce the wolf in the southwestern US have come at great cost. Far beyond the animals they kill, wolves also disrupt grazing areas and place stress on cattle, contributing to lower pregnancy rates and weights. The presence of wolves on grazing land has forced producers to choose between abandoning the land or shouldering the costly administrative burden of complying with the recovery program. It has also come at great expense to us, the taxpayers. The federal government has spent more than $20 million on a yet unsuccessful recovery program. Clearly, it’s time to update our efforts.

Senator Flake’s bill does just that. It doesn’t automatically remove the wolf from the endangered species list, but requires de-listing once the population target is met. Moreover, although the bill precludes judicial review of the wolf’s de-listing, it does not prevent administrative review of the continued health and welfare of the wolf population. This means that any concerns about the wolf population can still be raised with the FWS, the more appropriate venue for voicing such a concern.

Senator Flake’s bill protects Arizona’s ranchers, Arizona’s $900 million cattle industry, Arizona’s taxpayers, and Arizona’s wolves. I urge you to

Chelsea McGuire

Arizona Farm Bureau government relations director

Vote for Hampton

Editor:

Goodyear is in a run-off election for the third seat for city council and I believe the choice is clear. Brannon Hampton is a professional with over 15 years’ experience in team collaboration, process improvement, budgets, and project management. These are skills that are essential to being an effective and competent city councilmen. Brannon also has his Master’s Degree in Business Management, Masters Certification in Process Improvement, and a certification in Project Management. I feel being a professional with relevant and real life experience in the business world makes him infinitely more qualified than his opponent. Brannon has been attending the City Council meetings long before the election cycle began and completed the Citizens academy. His opponent cannot say the same. Brannon was also selected to participate in the 2025 General Plan Committee and has a working knowledge of the city’s direction moving forward. I strongly feel that Brannon Hampton is the clear choice for Goodyear City Council.

Kristyn Sons Goodyear

Sounds logical

Editor:

With all the news recently about who can use what bathroom, I remembered something from a number of years ago. There was reported to be a man who truly believed that he was a dog in the body of a human being. Under today’s laws could he legally use the trees in the park and car tires in the parking lot as his bathroom?

Ralph E. Wood Avondale

(See Letters on Page 8)

(From Page 7)

No farms, no food

Editor:

I remember back in 1952, I was 17 years old. It was the first time I came to the Phoenix area. I was on my way to the Korean War. You see I have always love my country, the greatest nation in the world. And I would do whatever it takes to protect it. That was why I gave my country the best 20 years of my life.

Flying over the nation I enjoy all those farmland on all the different states. When I arrived on this beautiful valley, I fell in Love with all the farmland. It grew enough food to feed the nation and other countries as well. Now there are not as many farms as it used to be, and we do not produce as much food as we used to. I found out that we are losing over 40 acres an hour of farm and ranch land to developers. I realized that where there are beautiful places people will go to settle and make beautiful homes.

We are lucky in a way, because we do not fracture our land like they do in Mexico. In Mexico land is divided by all the male children until there is no farm land left. Here the land goes to the child who wants it. The other children go on to find other types of work. Other countries farmland is sacred, homes are built on non-arable land. We should study countries that use that system and do the same. Maybe we can save whatever is left, remember, NO FARMS NO FOOD!

Jaime Ruiz-Sandoval Litchfield Park

Censorship not the answer

Editor:

I read the recent article by John Flynn, and found it amusing, but not surprising, that he wants the WVV to censor some writers that he finds offensive. Censorship is Un-American and not in keeping with the values our country was founded upon. Sometimes I don’t agree with Roy’s articles, but he has the right to express his opinions. And Mr Flynn, I almost never agree with your opinions, but you certainly are entitled to express them, and I would never think of asking the WVV to censor you.

In fact you and anyone else are free to write articles as often as you wish. To my knowledge there is no monthly or yearly limit on how many articles one person may submit.

Just for the record “Political Correctness” is not dead, but very much alive and well. Case in point is gender equity, where males who self-identify as females can use the female restroom, and vice-versa.

And people who denounce Muslim terrorists are labeled as being Islamophobic, and if a Black person is criticized, one is labeled as being racist. Then there was the boy wearing the colors of the American flag who was sent home, because it offended someone at school. Since when did the colors of our flag become offensive??

In closing I will quote Voltaire “I may disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it”.

Tom Moore Goodyear

Build a wall

Editor:

Build a wall. Build a wall. — All you need is a picket fence. I am a supporter of “legal” immigration. However, if you enter or have entered the USA illegally, you will be eligible for only one thing, deportation. No work, no subsidized housing, no schooling, etc. etc. — Just deportation.

A wall will not stop the entrance of illegal drugs to the United States.The smuggling of illegal drugs will only be stopped by eliminating the production of these drugs at their source. That would entail a concerted effort by the countries/areas where these drugs are manufactured.

Charles Schweda Avondale

Opinion confirmed

Editor:

Right on cue, the flim flam man his good self confirmed my opinion of progressives with his letter “ Out with the old letter writers,” WVV April 19th. Yes, censorship of those they don’t agree with is another hallmark of their vision of the future.

My apologies for “non deplume” and “oxymoran.” These should have read “ nom de plume” and “oxymoron.”

WVV April 19th.

On January 30th Barack Obama, issued a statement encouraging “Americans” to publicly protest President Trump’s executive order that temporarily restricted the immigration of refugees coming from seven Muslim — majority countries known for exporting jihadists. His “spokesman/ mouthpiece” Kevin Lewis gushed, “President Obama is heartened by the level of engagement ( read violence) taking place around the country.”

for by George Soros been classified as “American values”? With seditious and influential Progressive Party politicians like Obama and “crazy Bernie” aiding and abetting such protests, with “Organizing for Action,” 250 Obama controlled chapters. “United to Protect Democracy” operated by pro bono so called “lawyers and “Action Network” organized by a former HRC staffer, they will develop into an increasingly common disruption of American society.

As always with respect, from a freedom loving, deplorable, uncensored vet.

D.J. Hammond Buckeye

Goodyear art a waste of money

Editor:

How much is this “art on light poles” boondoggle going to cost the taxpayers of Goodyear?? This money surely could be used effectively elsewhere...the only people that will benefit from this waste of money is the art “winners.” Come on Goodyear, get a grip..

E.F. Merdick Goodyear

Trump will sink

Editor:

of malevolent missteps and meltdowns exhibited by the most incompetent president in history.

Now former Trump advisors such as Carter Page, Paul Manafort, John Flynn and Congressman Jason Chaffetz (R-UT) appear to have benefited illegally from contributions from shadowy Russian mob figures that have inextricable ties to Trump. They are all, among others, facing certain indictments. The writing on the wall indicates they will turn on Trump and reveal his ties and lies.

One does not have to look far. Trump bought a gaudy Palm Beach mansion in 2004 for $43 Million and sold it in 2008 for nearly $100 Million to Russian mobster/oligarch, Dmitry Robalovlev during a “crash & burn” real estate market. As has been revealed, these oligarchs launder illicit money by buying expensive real estate in the U.S. Paul Manafort has a notorious history here. The mansion has since been razed. It will be the money laundering that will sink Trump. He is going down and he will take many with him. By the way I am enjoying the most beautiful piece of chocolate cake I have ever had.

He then spouted on about “right to assemble “organize and have their voices ( and only their voices) heard when “American Values” are at stake.” Since when have riots by thugs organized and paid

The first 100 days of the Trump Administration is a rudderless ship going down and one who even couldn’t get it straight with the “armada” going to Korea. Policy directions seem to equivocate from the mouth of Trump that contradict the previous day’s policies with the perfunctory use of a 5th grade vocabulary with excessive adjectives and adverbs with petulant overtones. It is mired in internecine warfare among cabinet members and the staff with fractious effrontery and distrust instead of cohesiveness. One minute, cabinet members such as Flynn, Priebus, and Bannon are praised with laudatory comments only to be thrown under the bus a week later. It is a cluster conflagration

David Compton Litchfield Park

Ballet goes to the jungle with Tarzan

Southwest Ballet Theatre production takes stage at EMCC

by Glenn Gullickson staff writer

Tarzan will get the ballet treatment when Southwest Ballet Theatre tells the story of a character who’s a hero of popular culture.

Tarzan will be presented Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Performing Arts Center at Estrella Mountain Community College.

“It’s so different and fun,” said Melanie Hahne, Southwest Ballet Theatre’s artistic director. “It’s a contemporary ballet, but it also maintains that classical format of ballet.”

WHAT: Tarzan WHEN: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m.

Sunday WHERE: Performing Arts Center, Estrella Mountain Community College, 3000 N. Dysart Road, Avondale COST: $24 adults, $18 students 18 and younger, free for EMCC students who reserve tickets and take student ID to will call. Tickets may be reserved at http://swbttarzan. brownpapertickets.com. INFO: southwestballettheatre.org

The ballet was created about 15 years ago by Soili Arvola, a ballerina from Finland, who wrote the story, choreographed the show, found the music and designed the costumes, Hahne said.

It’s a “new style” ballet version of a story about a character who first appeared in literature in 1912 as an orphaned boy adopted by apes and has been featured in TV shows, film and computer games.

As Tarzan, Kleiton Sistelos, a teacher with Ballet Arizona, will lead the cast of five guest dancers playing major roles and about 50 students from Southwest Ballet, which offers classes in Goodyear.

Hahne, who has performed in productions of the show elsewhere, will dance the role of Chita, the monkey who is Tarzan’s best friend.

Their relationship is tested when an expedition visits the jungle and Tarzan meets and falls in love with Jane, danced by Samantha Lupascu, a freelance dancer from Phoenix.

Other guest dancers are Erica Lizotte, a teacher at Southwest Ballet, and Daniel Baudendistel, of Ballet Arizona, who also serves as an artistic adviser for the show.

West-MEC students win UTI Top Tech Challenge

Western Maricopa Education Center students Brent Gwynn and Jose Guardado won first place in Universal Technical Institute’s Top Tech Challenge.

The challenge included a series of obstacles aimed at testing students’ vehicle knowledge and ability to diagnose and repair car issues.

The Top Tech Challenge had 72 competitors divided into 36 teams of two.

As first place winners, Gwynn and Guardado each walked away with a $10,000 scholarship to UTI, in addition to a

Hahne said a three-dimensional set designed for the show will create the illusion that Tarzan is in his home environment.

“You’ll have the sense he’s up in the trees,” she said. Student dancers from age 4 to 18 will play baboons, monkeys, chimps and other jungle animals, Hahne said. She said the company has been working on the show since January, with Arvola coming to the West Valley twice to teach the choreography.

While most of the ballet involves classical moves, Hahne said rehearsals have been challenging since the

Brandon Close graduates from Washington State

Brandon Kyle Close of Goodyear has graduated with a bachelor of arts in political science at Washington State University in Pullman, Wash.

Spring art exhibits open at EMCC

Estrella Mountain Community College is presenting diverse spring semester art exhibitions. In the school’s Performing

show’s recorded music is not the music commonly associated with ballet.

The cast’s monkeys will be doing more modern movement to music that includes a lot of percussion, and dancers playing chimps had the task of learning to beat sticks rhythmically while dancing, she said.

The result is a child-friendly show that gets loud as dancers scream and Tarzan yells, Hahne said.

Glenn Gullickson can be reached at ggullickson@westvalleyview.com.

For information, visit estrellamountain.edu/art/exhibitions.

Tristyn Dunivant makes dean’s list

Tristyn Dunivant of Buckeye was named to Iowa Lakes Community College’s dean’s list for the fall 2016 semester. To be eligible for the dean’s list, a student must complete a minimum of 12 credit hours with a GPA of 3.25 or higher.

View photo by Ray Thomas

KLEITON SISTELOS rehearses for Southwest Ballet Theatre’s production of Tarzan May 1 at the Estrella Mountain Community College Performing Arts Center in Avondale. The show is set to run Friday through Sunday.

Snap-on tool and socket set valued at $2,365.

Arts Center, 3000 N. Dysart Road, Avondale, works of art by students, faculty and guest artists are on display. The college has exhibitions, art walks and artist lectures open to the public.

Business Briefcase

by Shane McOwen sports writer

Howdy, folks, and welcome to the latest edition of the Business Briefcase.

Happy Cinco de Mayo for those who celebrate.

It’s tradition in the Business Briefcase to remind everyone what Cinco de Mayo really is (and isn’t).

No. No! Please don’t say it! It’s not the Mexican independence day. Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of the Mexican army’s victory over the French in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, a full 52 years after the country gained its independence from Spain.

I’m sure this knowledge will not be needed in any capacity that day, other than to show off your trivia skills, but I’ll share it anyway. They say knowledge is power, so enjoy being a microscopic percentage more powerful.

Now, let’s venture forth into the business news.

The construction for Coldwater Depot Phase II is rounding to completion this month near 127th Avenue and Van Buren Street in Avondale, just east of the Agua Fria River.

The shell will be complete, anyway. The future tenant will, I’m sure, add some details of its own on the inside to make it a functioning warehouse. Phase II is just south

Goodyear insurance agent earns honor

Kurt Bojarski, Goodyear

American Family Insurance agent, was recently recognized for providing outstanding customer experience under the American Star Excellence in Customer Experience Certification Program.

The top honor was determined through an evaluation process conducted under guidelines

of Phase I, where Conn’s Home Plus became Coldwater Depot’s first tenant in 2013.

Those traveling along Avondale Boulevard to its farthest north point may have a different view in the distant future.

Two housing projects are slated to go in on each side of Avondale Boulevard, north of Encanto Boulevard.

replies.

ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT DOING BUSINESS IN THE WEST VALLEY?

If you are not a member of the Buckeye Valley Chamber of Commerce, you owe it to yourself and your business to call today and find all of the benefits of being a Buckeye Valley Chamber of Commerce member. For information, call 623-386-2727 or visit the web site at www.buckeyevalleychamber.org.

Encanto Crossing, on the west side of Avondale Boulevard, is in the beginning stages of navigating through the city government, but early plans have revealed a development consisting of 217 single-family residential lots ranging from 6,000 to 7,200 square feet. Lot sizes, not square footage for a home, just to reiterate.

The land, which used to house a dairy, is surrounded by residential neighborhoods on all sides, with the exception of a small portion that is Canyon Breeze Elementary School.

San Villagio, on the east side of Avondale Boulevard, is awaiting a final plat hearing, and would consist of 34 lots over 11 acres.

I’ve had a few questions over a couple of items in the Briefcase from multiple people, so I thought it would be a good time to do a quick recap of a few projects listed in the last few weeks.

Ask and you shall receive! Plus, it seems easier to give the answers here rather than a bunch of separate email

established through the certification program consisting of customer satisfaction surveys.

Bojarski has been an agent for American Family since September 1987.

Estrella names marketing manager

Newland Communities has hired Kimberly Banach of Buckeye as marketing manager for the Estrella community in Goodyear. She will be responsible for executing marketing and brand strategy initiatives for the master-planned development.

Liv Goodyear is the responsible party for the construction in Goodyear at the southeast corner of Pebble Creek Parkway and Virginia Avenue. It’ll eventually be a 432-unit (once both Site A and B are developed) green apartment community. The Cobblestone Auto Spa and attached Chevron gas station at 14031 W. Indian School Road, on the southeast side of the intersection, closed more than a month ago. A notice posted next to the large remodeling sign said the car wash’s operating permit expired March 14.

Cobblestone has not returned any calls or emails to the Briefcase at this time.

I still have a few email questions I don’t quite have the answers for, but stick with me! I hope to have them soon. That’s all for this week. Please send your questions, tips or comments to smcowen@westvalleyview. com. The Briefcase can also be reached on Twitter @ ShaneMcOwen.

Take care, folks, and have a great week!

Shane McOwen can be reached at smcowen@westvalleyview.com or on Twitter @ShaneMcOwen.

Other duties include building relationships with homebuilders and real estate professionals and cultivating partnerships with residents, local businesses and schools.

Allstate Foundation gives to local nonprofits

Volunteer work by Tom Hessler, Litchfield Park Allstate exclusive agency owner, helped secure grants for Buckeye Union High School, the Buckeye Police Foundation and Countryside Elementary. Each received a $1,000 grant from the Allstate Foundation Helping Hands.

The Maricopa County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) is developing the Maricopa County Active Transportation Plan (ATP).

What is the ATP?

The ATP is a plan for pedestrians, cyclists and other non-motorized forms of transportation.

Why do we need the ATP?

The ATP will identify and prioritize needs of non-motorized forms of transportation creating connections that improve people’s lives.

How do I get involved?

Attend any of our public open houses and let your voice be heard! You can also comment online at: mcdot.maricopa.gov/atp

Reasonable accommodations may be made available for people with disabilities with a minimum 72-hour notice. For more information on such accommodations, contact Ron Coleman at (602) 506-4038.

Con adviso de setenta y dos horas omás, es posible obtener plans reasonables para personas con discapacidades; lo mismo para representantes que hablan Español. Si quiere más información, llame (602) 723-4863.

Sun City

mcdot.maricopa.gov For a complete list of meetings please visit: mcdot.maricopa.gov/atp May 11, 2017 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. MCDOT Northwest Facility 12975 W. Bell Road Suprise, AZ 85378

Shane McOwen

Kurt Bojarski

‘May

the odds be ever in your favor’

Valley tributes participate in Hunger Games event

by Kourtney Balsan

special to the View

Valley tweens and teens fought to the death during the 76th annual Hunger Games April 29 at Estrella Mountain Regional Park in Goodyear … well, not exactly. In reality, they competed in events geared toward their favorite book and movie, The Hunger Games

Channeling characters Katniss Everdeen, Peeta Mellark, Haymitch Abernathy and even Cato, participants competed in archery, knot tying, trivia, a scavenger hunt and an obstacle course.

“This was a natural fit to create an event around The Hunger Games for the library,” Librarian Rob Wilson said. “Public libraries nowadays program recreational events with literary themes, and so this was a natural idea to take The Hunger Games, which was a literary blockbuster and because of the movies, everybody knew about it, so it became wildly popular.”

The Goodyear Branch Library and its Teen Leadership Club hosted the second annual event at Estrella Mountain Regional Park to simulate the book’s large arena feel ... and because tweens practicing archery in a busy [library] parking lot isn’t the ideal scenario.

“This has been one of our most popular events so

far, especially since it’s outside the library, which is something we’ve never done before,” said Anissa Aguila, 15, of Avondale who is in the library’s Teen Leadership Club. “It’s a time to get together and have fun.”

The purpose of the event is to encourage youths to not only pick up a book, but to also participate in activities at their local libraries, said Teen Leadership Club member Natasha Loving, 17, of Goodyear.

“We tied in the whole literary theme and there was a lot of learning going on,” Wilson said.

Five days before the event, tributes attended a mandatory survival lesson, Wilson said, adding that the youths watched archery and knot-tying demonstrations before they actually took on the bow and arrow and rope themselves.

With the main character in the book and movie series, Katniss, being a highly skilled archer, including archery in the event just made sense, Natasha said.

“[We went] through the books and movies and translated what we can make into a good fun event, and archery, trivia and all these wonderful things we were able to bring to life,” Natasha said.

The event took a lot of planning since it was so complex, Wilson said, adding that he met with the Teen Leadership Club every week for a few months to plan it.

“We had five stations and five different activities,” Natasha said. “For each station, there was one overall winner. Each of the districts [competed] and we recorded

their fastest time or their highest score and whoever out of all five districts scores the highest, won in that category. Then, those winners competed to become the overall winner of all the districts.”

Daniel Dorathy, 13, of Goodyear won two out of the five challenges: archery and the obstacle course.

“I’m in Boy Scouts and I like the camping and the outdoors and the whole survival part of it, and so The Hunger Games in general fascinated me,” Daniel said. “My favorite part was probably archery. I never knew I was such a good shot. I shot six bull’s-eyes.”

Daniel is a huge fan of the books and even had his last birthday party themed The Hunger Games, he said, adding that since he is new to the area after moving from Kansas, he found that it was a great way to get involved in his community and make new friends.

“There wasn’t really these events when I lived in Kansas,” Daniel said. “When I heard the library was doing this Hunger Games event, I thought it would be fun and I immediately signed up.”

The library is planning to hold the event again next year, Wilson said.

“It’s a wholesome event for the kids of this community. People are looking for something wholesome to do for their kids and we offer that at the library,” Wilson said.

As for advice for future tributes, Wilson quoted Haymitch, “Stay alive.”

Kourtney Balsan can be reached at Kbalsan@westvalleyview.com.

View photo by Jordan Christopher

ANISSA AGUILA, 15, of Avondale channels Hunger Games hero Katniss Everdeen April 29 at Estrella Mountain Regional Park in Goodyear. Anissa and her fellow “tributes” were competing in the Goodyear Public Library’s second annual Hunger Games Arena Event.

D.E., Westview softball lose in 1st round of state; Tolleson, Millennium and D.E. baseball lose play-in

State champion!

Estrella’s Zoey Nelson wins 2nd state title

by Casey Pritchard sports editor

A one-year hiatus didn’t stop Zoey Nelson from winning the ultimate prize on her return to high school tennis.

Nelson, who won the Division III state championship her sophomore year, took last season off from high school tennis to focus on national tournaments. Her return this year picked up right where she left off in 2015, as Nelson was again crowned the state champion. The Estrella Foothills senior beat Lexi Lehman of Scottsdale Notre Dame Prep 6-0, 6-2 in the championship April 29 at Paseo Racquet Center in Glendale.

anything she threw at Zoey, Zoey had an answer for in that first set.”

The semifinal against Scottsdale

Arcadia’s Isabelle Brown is where Nelson got pushed. Nelson won the first set 6-1, but lost the second set 6-4.

“The girl, she came out hitting hard,” Nelson said. “The whole match, she was playing really well, I just knew mentally I had to stick it out more than she did. But overall, it was a great match, she played well, I played well. It was good.”

GIRLS TENNIS

“I was able to go out and end my senior year on a high note; I think that was pretty important,” Nelson said. I was really excited to be in that position, be in the final. With the support of my team and my family, the faculty from Estrella Foothills High School, it made that experience that much better.”

Garrett Maier, Estrella’s tennis coach, said it was a fitting way to end the season. Nelson was 13-0 during the regular season and dropped only five games in all matches.

“Her attitude going into the tournament was not, ‘I’m going to win this tournament because I’m the No. 1 seed,’ it was, ‘I’m going to go out and play some of my best tennis on these couple weekends,’ and I think that attitude, not focused on winning the tournament but just on playing your best, I think is something that helped her achieve what she did,” Maier said. “It was definitely fitting to end her high school career winning the state championship. She’s earned it for sure.”

Nelson didn’t drop a game in the opening set of the championship match.

“The first set was out of this world,” Maier said. “I don’t know if her opponent didn’t know what was coming, but

Nelson had played Brown before, but not in a tournament setting in a while, she said.

“I’ve hit with her a few times in the past, we’ve trained together before; we know each other really well,” Nelson said.

After Nelson lost the second set, she and Maier chatted during the changeover.

“We spoke in the changeover after the second set and my general thesis was that we’ve got a full third set, which is not something you have during the school year, you have the third-set tiebreak,” Maier said. “So it’s truly a fresh start when you have that full third set rather than first to 10 points. I think that helped for sure and she got her head on straight for that set and went out, worked really hard and played really smart tennis to close out that match in a pretty authoritative way.”

Nelson wound up winning the third set 6-1.

“I knew I had to keep moving my feet, I knew I had to put more pace on the ball and keep my head in it,” Nelson said.

Nelson’s high school tennis career is now over, but she’ll continue to play at the collegiate level next year for Eastern Washington University in Cheney, Wash.

“I’m going off to college, so it was pretty important [to finish strong],” Nelson said. “I can’t wait to see what will happen once I finally play in college.”

Casey Pritchard can be reached at caseypritchard@westvalleyview.com or on Twitter @CaseyonSports.

Verrado advances past 1st round of state

Lady Vipers advance past Poston Butte with 3-2 victory

by Casey Pritchard sports editor

Verrado’s softball team reached the double-elimination portion of the 5A state playoffs by beating San Tan Valley Poston Butte in the first round of the state playoffs 3-2 April 29.

The fourth-ranked Lady Scorpions scored twice in the third and once in the fifth, and pitcher Reina Kelley limited the Lady Broncos’ offense to just five hits and no walks.

“It was a nail biter from the beginning,” Verrado coach Tee Hampton said. “It was kind of a pitcher’s duel for the first part, then they started figuring out what we were doing, and vice versa. It was awesome.”

Verrado had to use some small-ball tactics to get on the board, Hampton said.

“We were having a difficult time making adjustments and hitting the pitcher, so we started doing some small ball, and that always helps if you execute it well,” Hampton said.

Verrado had only six hits, getting two each from

View photo by Ray Thomas

ZOEY NELSON of Estrella Foothills rips through a backhand shot against Gila Ridge March 28 at Estrella. Nelson claimed her second state singles championship April 29, beating Notre Dame Prep’s Lexi Lehman 6-0, 6-2 in the Division II final.

View photo by Mike Rincon

BIANCA WORTHY of Verrado connects with a pitch during the first inning against Poston Butte April 29 at Verrado. The Lady Vipers won 3-2, advancing to the second round of the 5A state playoffs.

6-run 6th inning ends Westview’s season

Lady Knights fall 7-1 to Desert Ridge in 6A playoffs

by Shane McOwen sports writer

Westview softball’s playoff run came crashing to a halt thanks to one unfortunate inning.

Tied in the sixth, Mesa Desert Ridge was able to plate six runs to put the game out of reach, beating the Lady Knights 7-1 in the first round of the 6A Conference state playoffs April 29.

SOFTBALL

“They don’t have anything to hang their heads about,” Westview coach Larry Wonner said. “They played well. I think we justified our No. 11 seed these last two games.”

Westview struck first, scoring a third-inning run on a passed ball with the bases loaded. The Lady Knights weren’t able to add another in the inning, as two of the team’s best hitters, Ceairra Perez and Devan Dickson, went down with runners in scoring p osition.

Desert Ridge answered immediately in the bottom of the third with three consecutive hits to tie the game at 1-1.

Dickson pitched well for much of the game, getting out of jams in each of the third, fourth and fifth innings, surrendering just one run. The balancing act tipped the other way in the sixth, however.

Senior infielder Hannah Pier led off with a home r un to straight away center field to break the 1-1 tie. With two outs, a walk by Dickson loaded the b ases, and then Alyssa Lyon smashed a basesclearing double to left-center to make it 5-1. Shaylee Ackerman followed with a two-run shot over the center-field wall to push the lead to 7-1. Alexandra McCutcheon replaced Dickson in the circle to get the last out.

Wonner said he was unsure about bringing McCutcheon into the game because she’d developed a blister on her pitching hand in practice earlier in the week. Wonner had planned on bringing her in to face the Desert Ridge lineup on its third and fourth times around the order, but decided against it because of the injury, he said.

“I was hesitant to bring her in because of the blister,” he said. “I had to use her with two outs, and she seemed to be OK, but you never know.”

Westview was able to get two on base in the top of the seventh, but wasn’t able to score.

Play-in game

The Lady Knights used a big inning of their own to race past Gilbert in the play-in game April 26. Down 3-1, Westview scored five runs in the bottom of the third to take the lead for good.

Wonner was pleased with how his team kept the fight after going down early, he said.

“The good thing is teams in the past would have just given up at that point,” Wonner said. “These girls don’t do that. They don’t drop their heads. They keep battling, they know what they can do. We tightened up on defense and that was enough.”

The Lady Knights’ big third inning could have been more if not for a hard-hit ball that turned into a double play. Melina Bueno hit a rocket down the first-base line

CEAIRRA PEREZ of Westview charges a ground ball to shortstop against Gilbert April 26 at Westview. The Lady Knights won the 6A state tournament play-in game 9-4, but lost to Desert Ridge 7-1 April 29 and were eliminated from the postseason.

with the bases loaded that was caught. Gilbert’s first baseman was able to tag the bag before the Lady Knights’ runner could get back.

“There’s nothing you can do about that,” Wonner said. “It’s either going to be a bases-clearing triple or a double play.”

The Lady Knights walk away from the 2017 season as 6A Southwest Region champions, finishing 24-7. Westview was perfect in region play, going 10-0, and won 10 games in a row to close out the season, outscoring opponents 107-8 over that stretch.

“We kind of saw that at the beginning of the year,” Wonner said. “It took them a little while to get there, [but

after] getting solid playing time and at bats, they came around.”

Wonner said he was disappointed the team wasn’t able to make it to the next round, where the doubleelimination portion of the tournament begins.

“We [would] have had to lose two games. I don’t see this team doing that easily,” he said. “It might [have] happened, but we’re not just going to roll over and die for anyone.”

Shane McOwen can be reached at smcowen@westvalleyview.com or on Twitter @ShaneMcOwen.

View photo by Mike Rincon

Desert Edge can’t make it past 1st round

Lady Scorpions win play-in game, fall to Ironwood Ridge

by Casey Pritchard sports editor

Desert Edge softball won its home state playoff play-in game April 26, but the Lady Scorpions couldn’t keep that momentum rolling in the first round of the 5A tournament, losing 12-3 at Tucson Ironwood Ridge April 29.

Ironwood Ridge scored three runs in the first and four in the third, taking a 7-0 lead. Desert Edge rallied back with two runs in the top of the fourth, but couldn’t get any closer. The big hit eluded Desert Edge all day.

“In that game, it was a matter of we were going to have to match them hit for hit,” Desert Edge coach Bret Marchese said. “They got the big hit and we just couldn’t quite get that key hit.”

That was evident in the first inning, as the first two Desert Edge players reached base, but a pair of strikeouts and a diving play at second base kept the Lady Scorpions off the scoreboard.

“That shut down our initial spark, then they scored three,” Marchese said.

The play-in game presented Desert Edge with some adversity, and the Lady Scorpions answered the call. After giving up four runs to Peoria Liberty in the top of the fifth, which tied the game 5-5, Desert Edge scored four runs of its own in the bottom of the frame, taking a 9-5 lead. It won 9-6.

“We played them earlier in the year and beat them pretty well,” Marchese said of Liberty. “I talked to the team prior to the game and told them they’re a very well

SANIAH

coached Liberty team and they’ve come to play. [Us] responding, bouncing back, it’s a team all year long that fought and played really hard. I think once they got a four spot put on us, them bouncing back showed their intensity and drive.”

Senior Jessica Marchese went 5 for 5 with three doubles in the win against Liberty, and followed that up by going 4 for 4 with a double against Ironwood Ridge.

“In the state playoffs, she was 9 for 9 with four doubles,” Bret Marchese said.

“That’s a pretty incredible run by a senior.”

The Lady Scorpions lose Jessica Marchese, who played center field, catcher Jasmine Martinez and designated hitter Ciana Camacho, all of whom are seniors, but every other starter will be back next year.

“I’m excited about next year,” Bret Marchese said. “I think the team matured a lot this year … I’m very proud of how they jelled together as a team, and how hard they played.”

Winning a playoff game in Marchese’s first year as head coach was

JOB FAIR

also important, he said.

“Anytime you can get a play-in victory, it’s a big boost to the program and the team; it’s a tribute to all their hard work this season,” Marchese said. “I’m really proud of them. It’s almost become a, I hate to say this, but a standard to make the playoffs. I’m proud of them. They did a really good job this year.”

Casey Pritchard can be reached at caseypritchard@westvalleyview.com or on Twitter @CaseyonSports.

View photo by Ray Thomas

DORSEY of Desert Edge slides home safely to score a run against Liberty April 26 at Desert Edge. The Lady Scorpions won 9-6 in the 5A state tournament play-in game, but lost 12-3 at Ironwood Ridge April 29 in the first round.

Scorpions eliminated in state play-in game

Desert Edge’s offense goes silent in 3-1 loss

by Casey Pritchard sports editor

Desert Edge’s return to the state baseball playoffs was short lived, as the Scorpions couldn’t find any offensive footing in a 3-1 loss to Sierra Vista Buena during the 5A Conference play-in round April 26.

The Scorpions scratched out a firstinning run, but couldn’t produce again after that.

“The first inning, we got up on a base hit, stolen base, great read in the dirt to get to third, then a ground ball on the infield scored the run,” Desert Edge coach Sean McCorry said. “It started out great, then we had two hits the rest of the way.”

The Scorpions couldn’t solve Buena left-handed pitcher Peyton Maxwell, who allowed just three hits and three walks, while striking out six.

“He did a good job of throwing his breaking ball for a strike, then mixing in his fastball, and he located his fastball pretty well,” McCorry said. “He got the ball in, then pitched away. He did a good job and we didn’t hit.”

McCorry used four different pitchers against Buena, with none of them throwing more than three innings. Matt Chavez started because that gave the Scorpions their best defensive lineup, McCorry said.

“I didn’t want to lose the game by not throwing strikes or not playing defense,” McCorry said. “Our pitching wasn’t overpowering, so we’d have a lot of contact to the left side of the infield. We wanted to be as strong as we could over there, so we didn’t start Danny [Kamins], we brought him out of the bullpen.”

The pitching staff kept Desert Edge in the game, allowing just a single run in each of the fourth, fifth and sixth innings, but the Scorpions’ bats just couldn’t get them over the hump.

“We had to hit the ball,” McCorry said. “We had too many punch outs. We struck out six times and we had probably six fly balls, like pop ups, balls that weren’t hit well. Off a guy like that, you’ve got to be able to put the ball in play, and put it on the ground. When you pop up the ball, you’re not utilizing any of your speed or putting pressure on the defense. That was the biggest thing we lacked, was when we put the ball in play, we weren’t hitting it

on the ground or hitting line drives.”

Trailing 3-1 in the sixth, Desert Edge had its biggest chance to get back into the game. The Scorpions had runners at second and third with one out and Kamins at the plate. He chopped a ground ball down the third base line that was gloved by the third baseman, but ruled a foul ball. Had it been fair, it would have scored a run, making it 3-2, and put runners at the corners.

“It was close,” McCorry said. “From my standpoint, fair ball. I’m right on top of the bag, but from home plate, he called it foul. It was close. It was a tough play to call. He called it foul so we had to back everything up.”

Kamins was unable to score the runners after that, ending the inning.

Good season

Despite losing the play-in game,

McCorry was really proud of his athletes for what they accomplished this season, he said. The Scorpions started 0-4 in powerpoints games and finished 11-7. They were also 7-3 in the Desert West Region, tying Verrado for the top spot. The Vipers won the region by virtue of holding the tiebreaker, which was a better conference record.

“I’m super proud,” McCorry said. “I’ve been praying for these guys all year about being a family, staying together, grinding. I saw the region stats, we scored 48 runs and gave up 30, finished 7-3. Verrado scored 91 and gave up 29. I’m looking at that and I’m like, wow, and we tied them. They won the region, but we had the same record, and we split with them. That’s a heck of a season. If the guys didn’t play like that and believe in each other, we never would have been there, no way. The guys stayed together,

we believed in each other, and we had great team speed, so they could make things happen.”

Desert Edge finished the season with 111 stolen bases. The Scorpions relied on that team speed, executional hitting and having quality at bats, McCorry said.

“The games we lost, we didn’t executional hit, or we didn’t get the big hit,” McCorry said. “We had close games in region. We were right there every game, so it was a fun season.”

The state playoff appearance was McCorry’s first as Desert Edge coach. The last time the Scorpions made the postseason was 2011.

Casey Pritchard can be reached at caseypritchard@westvalleyview.com or on Twitter @CaseyonSports.

View photo by Ray Thomas

WILLIE LOERA, left, of Desert Edge reaches to tag Buena’s George Hargon as the ball gets away April 26 at Desert Edge. The Scorpions struggled offensively in the 5A state tournament play-in game, collecting just three hits in a 3-1 loss.

Millennium baseball bows out in play-in game

Early hole too much for Tigers to overcome in 9-1 loss

by Shane McOwen sports writer

Millennium baseball’s season came to an end in the 6A Conference play-in round at the hands of Chandler, 9-1, April 26.

No. 15 Chandler jumped on No. 18 Millennium early, taking a sizable lead, and shut down the Tigers’ bats the rest of the way.

“You know how baseball is,” Millennium coach Ryan Bethel said. “Some days, you’re on, some days, you’re off. It just wasn’t a good day for us.”

BASEBALL

Chandler scored two in the first inning, but really poured it on in the second. After the Tigers grabbed a run back in the top of the frame, the Wolves pounced for five runs in the bottom of the inning, extending the lead to 7-1.

Chandler starting pitcher Zach Barnes settled in with the lead, pitching a complete game. Barnes surrendered only four hits over seven innings, issuing two walks and striking out five.

“It’s tough to dig out of that deficit, especially in the playoffs when you’re facing everyone’s No. 1 guy,” Bethel said. “Their pitcher, Barnes, did a great job mixing it up and keeping us off balance. You’ve got to tip your cap to Chandler. It’s a great team coached by a great guy, David Lopez. They were ready to go.”

Millennium had won four games in a row to close out the regular season, clinching the region title. Bethel said the run of games, including a nine-inning contest against Surprise Valley Vista two days before the Chandler game, had maybe drained some of the team’s battery going into the postseason.

“It was an emotional week for us,” Bethel said. “Winning our region, competing against Valley Vista [April 24] and going extra innings. It could probably be a factor of the whole last week. We had some long, emotional games, [and] it’s a tough sport to do that.”

The team went through lighter practices at the end of the season to help accommodate any wear and tear, but ultimately, it wasn’t in the cards for Millennium against Chandler, Bethel said.

“It’s just one of those games, one of those days where things were a bit off,” he said. “I think we were healthy,

(From Page 12)

Isabella Pantoja and Bianca Worthy. Maddie Gaines had a double and two RBI, and Katelyn Acton had the Lady Vipers’ other hit. She also scored a run.

With a one-run lead in the final inning, Verrado had to hang on for dear life.

“We were at the top of their lineup, so that’s always scary when you’re at their 1-2-3-4,” Hampton said. “One of the girls hit a deep fly ball, landed right in front of the wall. We caught it right in front of the fence. It had some wind under it, so it hung a little bit.”

probably a little tired. I tried to take it easy on them the last couple days of practice, had some short ones. More than anything else, it was just baseball. It just wasn’t a good day.”

Banner year

In all, the season was a success, Bethel said. The Tigers captured the region crown over three other teams that had a shot in the final week.

“That’s what I told the kids, don’t let this one game put a sour taste in your mouth for what we’ve accomplished this season, especially coming off a 10-win season the year before,” Bethel said. “We had a lot of unprovens going in. We were starting four sophomores and one

Kelley struck out nine Lady Broncos in earning the victory in the circle for Verrado.

“She pitched great,” Hampton said. “Going seven innings and seeing the same pitcher, if you have a good batter, they typically pick up on a pitcher and kind of figure things out, but she held us in there.”

Winning in the first round assures Verrado of at least two more games, as the final eight teams will play in a doubleelimination bracket.

“It’s huge,” Hampton said. “You want to make the playoffs initially, and then the next goal is to make it to Rose Mofford [Softball Complex]. Once you get there, you’re the elite. There are eight teams left, and there are [43] teams in Division 5 alone, so it’s a

freshman along with that at the end. It’s a young team, and there’s nothing but good things moving forward.”

The Tigers finished 18-11 overall, 9-1 in region play, and returned to the state playoffs after missing out in 2016. Bethel said the team will take some time off before returning to the diamond and cages for summer work.

“Usually, the older guys go play with their club team in the summer,” Bethel said. “We kind of mainly focus on the younger development, the incoming freshmen and the freshmen that are here this year.”

Shane McOwen can be reached at smcowen@westvalleyview.com or on Twitter @ShaneMcOwen.

privilege, especially when you earn it.” Verrado’s second-round game was against Scottsdale Chaparral Tuesday. The result was unavailable at press time. Tuesday’s contest was a shot at redemption for the Lady Vipers, who lost to Chaparral 12-8 March 28. That was the last time Verrado lost, and came on the heels of back-to-back defeats.

“We lost 4-3 to Shadow Ridge, then we had to go the next day to Chaparral and Reina pitched again,” Hampton said. “We were exhausted mentally, emotionally, from the game [against Shadow Ridge], so expecting them to come out and play hard the next day, that’s a lot to expect as a coach from them. I just want them to give it all they got.”

This time, the Lady Vipers had more rest and Hampton was able to put together a strategy for Chaparral, he said.

“Last time, we were strategizing against Shadow Ridge, and the next night, we had to play Chaparral in less than 24 hours,” Hampton said. “This time, we’re ready, we’ve seen them once, which is good for us, too. It kind of helps me and my coaching staff to plan strategies against them.”

Win or lose, Verrado’s next game is Thursday at Rose Mofford. If the Lady Vipers won, they will play at 7:30 p.m. If they lost, they’ll play at 5:30 p.m. Casey Pritchard can be reached at caseypritchard@westvalleyview.com or on Twitter @CaseyonSports.

View photo by Mike Rincon

ALEX FIGUEROA, right, of Millennium is greeted by teammate Michael Garverick after scoring a run at Tolleson April 7. The Tigers fell behind early in their 6A state playoff play-in game, losing 9-1 to Chandler April 26.

Lady Tigers’ season comes down to last play

Millennium’s season ends on play at plate

by Shane McOwen sports writer

Millennium’s softball season came down to the last inning, the final play of the game.

Unfortunately for the Lady Tigers, the result came up in the opposition’s favor, giving Scottsdale Desert Mountain the 6-5 victory in the 6A conference play-in round April 26.

The Lady Tigers were down to their last out in the seventh inning when senior DeNae Chatman came to the p late. With two runners on base, she smacked a triple into the left field corner, scoring both runs. Chatman tried to advance home on an errant Desert Mountain throw, but was tagged out at the plate to end the game.

“It was a close play,” Millennium coach Donnie Tizzano said. “I thought she got in underneath the tag, but the umpire saw it differently. You’ve got to live with that.”

Chatman, who hit a home run in her previous at bat, was one of the few bright spots for the Lady Tigers’ offense. Millennium was only able to muster three hits on the day, with Chatman collecting two of them.

“DeNae was a big part of our offense; other than that, we didn’t really hit the ball all that well,” Tizzano said. “Their [pitcher] was pretty good. We had runners on, but we couldn’t get that big hit to cash it in.”

Tizzano said the play at the plate in the seventh and a reversal of an obstruction call in the first were the two biggest moments of the game. At 1-1 in the first, Millennium looked

plate for the final out of the Lady Tigers’ playoff game against Desert Mountain April 26.

to be getting out of the inning when a Desert Ridge baserunner was called out for obstruction for running into Chatman, the Lady Tigers’ shortstop, during a hit ball. After some deliberation, the umpire reversed his call and disallowed the out, subsequently giving Desert Ridge a 2-1 lead. The next hitter singled in another run, making it 3-1 before Millennium could get out of the inning.

“The kid scores on that call to make it 2-1, and then we give up a base hit and

make it 3-1 after the first inning instead of 1-1 if the call would have stood,” Tizzano said. “That one kind of hurt, too.”

The Lady Tigers got a run back in the second inning, but surrendered a pair in the bottom of the frame and couldn’t make up the distance the rest of the way.

Tizzano said he was proud of the girls’ season.

“We wanted to make it to the tournament, that was our big goal and we

accomplished that,” Tizzano said. “We didn’t give up. We played hard the whole way through.”

Moving forward

Millennium finished 14-16 overall under Tizzano, his first year at the school, and went 8-2 in region play. The Lady Tigers were a series split with Westview away from winning the region.

Millennium will have a much different look in year two under Tizzano, with 10 seniors hanging up their cleats for the program.

“We’re going to find out [what’s next],” Tizzano said. “Our lower levels played really well. That doesn’t necessarily translate to success at the varsity level, but they did play well. We had a couple of kids down there who I feel are varsity caliber kids who were just blocked by the senior class.”

Tizzano said with few returning starters, next year’s lineup will have a more open competition feel to it.

“Everyone knows they’re fighting for a position,” Tizzano said. “[We had] a lot of seniors who started as juniors [this year], so they kind of assumed they had a spot. Now, there are seven starting seniors who won’t be there.”

Tizzano is excited about getting the chance to work with the girls for an entire offseason this time around, he said.

“I don’t know if we’ll be as talented, but we’ll be a little bit more prepared. It’ll be a whole year with the same coaching staff. I think I’ll be able to be more hands on, because the kids will be coming up with me as their coach, [rather] than me being a new coach.

“What we may lack in talent, I think our kids will make up for by working hard. They’re hungry and they want to learn because they’ve been on the JV level.”

Shane McOwen can be reached at smcowen@westvalleyview.com or on Twitter @ShaneMcOwen.

American Legion

35 N. 8th St.

Avondale Public Library

11350 W. Civic Center Dr.

Avondale Public Library

495 E. Western Ave.

Avondale Toyota

10005 W. Papago Freeway

Planet Smoothie

Frys Shopping Center

1573 N. Dysart, #B2

Rodeo Kia

10605 W. Papago Freeway

Stotz Equipment

11111 W. McDowell Rd.

West Valley View

1050 E. Riley Drive

BUCKEYE Anderson

Buckeye

Apts/Mini

AZ

C-A-L

Grungy

View photo by Mike Rincon

DENAE CHATMAN of Millennium reaches back to throw the ball April 19 at Westview. Chatman was called out at home

Landmark Month for Culver’s

Culver’s Frozen Custard and home of the Butterburger is celebrating a one year anniversary in Verrado and a five year anniversary in Avondale. The Verrado location is at 1540 N. Verrado Way, just north of the I-10 in Buckeye and the Avondale location is at 1025 N. Avondale Boulevard, just south of the I-10. Be sure to look out for Greg driving throughout the West Valley, in parades and making large order deliveries in the Culver’s van.

Nightmare start dooms Wolverines in loss

by Shane McOwen sports writer

Six hitters, five runs, no one out.

It was a nightmarish start for Tolleson baseball’s return to the state playoffs, and it was enough to oust the Wolverines in the 6A Conference play-in round at the hands of No.

10 Chandler Hamilton, 11-1, April 26.

“I’ll put it this way, if we were playing a video game, we would have hit the reset button in the first inning and just started over,” Tolleson coach Scott Richardson said. “In life, you don’t get a chance to do that. You’ve got to try and grind it out. Our guys competed, it just wasn’t meant to be.”

Hamilton made it known quickly that it wasn’t going to be the Wolverines’ day, Richardson said.

“The leadoff guy hit a triple, [then it went] walk, walk, double, double, triple,” Richardson said. “There’s five runs and we hadn’t got an out yet. It’s quite a big mountain to climb, regardless of who you’re playing. When you go play one of the best programs in the state, it’s even tougher.”

Richardson said starting pitcher Kevin Ortega had good life to his fastball, but was having to battle back from behind in the count too often, giving Hamilton the edge at the plate.

“The ball was coming out of his hand real well, he just wasn’t locating and got behind in some counts,” Richardson said. “With a team like Hamilton, you can’t be 2-0, 2-1, for sure. I think that’s what happened. We were nibbling a little too much early and had to come back across the plate, and they put good swings on it. That was the story of the game in the first couple of innings; that’s how it went for us.”

To Tolleson’s credit, the team didn’t give up, Richardson said. The deficit, however, changed the complexion of the rest of the game.

“It changes everything so much when you’re down by five right off the bat,” Richardson said. “It takes you out of your running game, your bunting game. You don’t want to risk outs when you’re down by so much; it really changes everything.”

Tolleson had a lot of success in the 2017 season putting pressure on defenses by deploying small-ball tactics, but this game’s circumstances forced the Wolverines to play a different hand.

“Having to score runs like that isn’t really in our repertoire,” Richardson said. “We knew going in, to have a chance, it was going to have to be 2-1, 3-2, something like that. When you start getting up to having to score 10 runs against a school like Hamilton, it’s tough. Offensively, we’re just not that team.”

Amid the chaos of the game, Ramon Velasco was a standout for the Wolverines,

Richardson said. The sophomore went 3 for 3 at the plate with two doubles and a single, and threw three quality innings in relief.

Playoff return

The Hamilton loss was not enough to damper a quality season, Richardson said.

Tolleson began 2017 with one of the youngest starting lineups in the region, but the team came of age quickly and threw its hat in the ring for a late-season meaningful challenge for the title.

“I think the guys overachieved,” Richardson said. “Everyone’s got those hopes about going to the playoffs, but with so many sophomores in the starting lineup and guys who didn’t have varsity experience, there were a lot of question marks. The guys rose to the occasion. I was thoroughly pleased with the way they played.”

Tolleson finished 6-4 in the 6A Southwest Region, three games behind champions Millennium. The Wolverines were in contention for the crown until the final week, and were the only region team to beat Millennium this season.

“It came down to the last week of the season to see who won the region title, and hats off to Millennium for winning it,” Richardson said. “It was a great job by coach [Ryan] Bethel and his guys. There

weren’t any cakewalks, that’s for sure. I think everybody in our region played well, played tough against each other.”

Richardson thanked his departing senior class for the leadership demonstrated in helping guide the program back to the postseason.

“There were nine seniors who contributed,” Richardson said. “That’s the biggest senior class we’ve had in a long time. It was good to see those guys [respond] after missing the playoffs the last couple of years. It was good to see

those guys get us back going in that direction.

“If [this loss] is the worst thing that ever happens to these guys in their lives, then they’ll be in pretty good shape. At the end of the day, it’s a baseball game and we have to look back and keep things in perspective. I think all in all, there’s a lot of positives to come out of this season.”

Shane McOwen can be reached at smcowen@westvalleyview.com or on Twitter @ShaneMcOwen.

View photo by Mike Rincon

the Maryvale Community Center Arts and Crafts Room, 4420 N. 51st Ave., Phoenix.

Job Readiness Assistance

Avondale and Goodwill of Central Arizona are offering job readiness assistance from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Care1st Avondale Resource Center, 328 W. Western Ave., Avondale. A career adviser is at the center each Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. No registration or scheduling is required. For information, call 623-333-2703.

Fitness in the Park

Buckeye hosts Fitness in the Park from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday at Sundance Park, 22865 W. Lower Buckeye Road, Buckeye.

Citizenship class

People wanting to become U.S. citizens are invited to a free class from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday at the Care1st Avondale Resource Center, 328 W. Western Ave., Avondale.

Story time

The West Valley View publishes on Wednesday.

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 View’s coverage area, which is south of Northern Avenue, west of Loop 101, plus all of Tolleson, extends to Estrella on the south and Tonopah on the west. Events such as concerts and theatrical performances that fall outside of the View’s circulation area will be considered as there are no concert halls or theater venues within our boundaries.

Fundraisers that are held at restaurants where only a portion of the proceeds benefits the charity or nonprofit will not be considered.

Paid Listings for 9 Days

Toddlers ages 2 to 4 accompanied by an adult can enjoy interactive stories, songs and games that encourage emerging language skills at 11:15 a.m. every Wednesday at the Buckeye Library Downtown Branch, 310 N. Sixth St., Buckeye. For information, call 623-349-6300.

Baby time

Take your babies from birth to 23 months to enjoy songs, activities, rhymes, books and playtime starting at 10:15 a.m. Wednesdays at the Buckeye Library Downtown Branch, 310 N. Sixth St., Buckeye. For information, call 623-349-6300.

Computer classes

Quilters Anonymous meets

Quilters Anonymous, a chapter of the Arizona Quilters Guild, meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Thursday of every month at Christ Presbyterian Church, 925 N Sarival Ave., Goodyear. For information, call Stacey at 623-979-1775.

Veteran support group

A veteran and military personnel support group meets from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. every Thursday at the Christ Presbyterian Church, 925 N. Sarival Ave., Goodyear. For information, call 623-882-0721.

ESL Cafe

Participants can practice their English or Spanish skills from 5 to 6:30 p.m. every Thursday at the Buckeye Public Library, 310 N. Sixth St., Buckeye. Spanish will be spoken for the first half and English for the second.

St. Peter’s RePete Boutique

St. Peter’s RePete Boutique thrift store is open from 9 a.m. to noon every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, with the exception of holidays, at 400 S. Old Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park.

Fitness in the Park

Buckeye hosts Fitness in the Park from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday at Sundance Park, 22865 W. Lower Buckeye Road, Buckeye.

Small business mentoring

Goodyear is offering one-on-one mentoring for business owners and entrepreneurs from 10 a.m. to noon every Tuesday and 1 to 3 p.m. every Thursday.To schedule a mentoring appointment, email darah.mann@goodyearaz.gov.

Baby time

tions at the Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third St., Avondale. The city will also have a street fiesta from 5 to 10 pm. on Western Avenue in Historic Avondale. For information, call 623-333-2705.

Cue the Music

Desert Edge High School will present Cue the Music, a dance concert, at 7 p.m. at 15778 W. Yuma Road, Goodyear.

LESD celebration

The Litchfield Elementary School District is celebrating Mabel Padgett Elementary School being named an A+ School of Excellence by the Arizona Educational Foundation with a celebration at 8 a.m. at Mabel Padgett, 15430 W. Turney, Goodyear. Reservations are required by calling 623-547-3200.

Arvola’s Tarzan

Southwest Ballet Theatre will perform Arvola’s Tarzan, choreographed by Soili Arvola, at 7 p.m. at Estrella Mountain Community College, 3000 N. Dysart Road, Avondale. Tickets are $24 for general admission and $18 for students ages 18 and younger. For information, visit swbttarzan. brownpapertickets.com.

Genealogy assistance

People can visit the Buckeye Valley Museum at 116 E. Hwy 85 in Buckeye to get assistance with their family tree searches from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. the first and third Friday of the month. Registration is required by calling 623-349-6300.

Texas Hold’em tournaments

Miller Road, south of Baseline Road. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. For information, visit buckeyeaz.gov/events.

Understanding Hypnosis

Learn the truth behind hypnosis at Understanding Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy at 2 p.m. at the White Tank Branch Library, 20304 W.White Tank Road, Waddell. Registration is required at mcldaz.org.

Arvola’s Tarzan Southwest Ballet Theatre will perform Arvola’s Tarzan, choreographed by Soili Arvola, at 7 p.m. at Estrella Mountain Community College, 3000 N. Dysart Road, Avondale. Tickets are $24 for general admission and $18 for students ages 18 and younger. For information, visit swbttarzan. brownpapertickets.com.

Youth gaming day

Youths 10 to 18 can join in a video game and board game day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the first Saturday of the month at the White Tank Branch Library, 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell.

Cody’s Reading Pack

Young readers can build confidence by reading to therapy dogs during “Cody’s Reading Pack” at 10 a.m. the first Saturday of the month at the Coyote Branch Library, 21699 W. Yuma Road, Buckeye. Readings are by appointment for 15-minute sessions. To reserve an appointment, call 623-349-6300.

Buckeye DAR chapter meets

The 9 Days a Week calendar now may contain paid listings which are clearly marked by “Advertisement” across the top and bottom of paid listings and appear in a screened box. Submissions for paid items may be made by calling the classified advertising dept. of the West Valley View at 623-535-8439. Available sizes and prices: 2 inch ad = $80.00, 3 inch ad = $120.00.

Submissions must reach our office by 4 p.m. Friday to be considered for the Wednesday publication. Submissions must be in writing and may be emailed to news1@westvalleyview.com; faxed to 623-935-2103; or dropped off at the West Valley View, 1050 E. Riley Drive, Avondale AZ 85323.

MAY

Wednesday

9 Days a Week calendar items print on a spaceavailable basis; the only way to guarantee that an item will print is to purchase an advertisement. 3

Lunch and Bunco

Learn the basics of operating a computer from 6 to 7 p.m. every Wednesday in the Program Room at the Buckeye Library Coyote Branch, 21699 W. Yuma Road, Suite 116, Bu ckeye. Registration is required. For information, call 623-349-6300.

Community Bingo

The Rotary Club of Buckeye sponsors Community Bingo at 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays at 3690 S. Estrella Parkway, Suite 108, Goodyear. Doors open at 5 p.m.; cost is $21 per person for all 18 games (paper). Daubers and Power Bingo King electronics are available. Proceeds raised benefit local charities. For information, call 623-512-8878.

Thursday

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Take your babies to an interactive program that introduces board books, music and art to babies and toddlers. There will be educational toys, socialization and self-expression in a comfortable environment. Baby time is designed for children from birth to 2 years old. Baby time runs from 10:15 to 11 a.m. Thursdays at the White Tank Branch Library, 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell.

Taking Turns Toybrary

The American Legion Post 53 hosts Texas Hold’em tournaments at 7 p.m. the first and third Friday of the month in Hazelton Hall at 402 E. Narramore Ave. in Buckeye. For information, call 623-327-0227 or email legionpost53@gmail.com.

Free admission to Children’s Museum

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix opens its doors to the general public free of charge from 5 to 9 p.m. the first Friday of the month. The museum is at 215 N. Seventh St. in Phoenix. For information, visit childrensmuseumofphoenix.org.

Daughters of the American Revolution, Buckeye Chapter, meets the first Saturday of the month at the Buckeye Valley Chamber of Commerce, 508 E. Monroe Ave., Buckeye. Contact Linda Davis at GDavis1003@aol.com if you are interested in attending, becoming a member or learning more about the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Button Hooks Button Club

Fabulous First Fridays for Homeschoolers

The Care1st Avondale Resource Center opens the doors to its Taking Turns Toybrary from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursdays at 328 W. Western Ave., Avondale. Families can check out fun, educational toys for up to two weeks with a photo ID. For information, call 623-333-2703.

In Stitches in Goodyear meets

The Button Hooks Button Club is hosting its monthly meeting starting at 10 a.m. the first Saturday of the month at the Clubhouse Meeting Room at Good Samaritan Care Center, 10323 W. Olive Ave., Peoria. The meeting is for those interested in collecting and/or learning about buttons. For information, call Mary at 623-972-9028.

American Legion Post No. 61 yard sale

Homeschoolers ages 6 and older are invited to join the White Tank Branch Library, 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell, at 2 p.m. the first Friday of the month for “Fabulous First Fridays for Homeschoolers” for a variety of hands-on activities.

Saturday

Cue the Music

Desert Edge High School will present Cue the Music, a dance concert, at 7 p.m. at 15778 W. Yuma Road, Goodyear.

Tolleson fall prevention course

The Tolleson Senior Center is hosting a course on preventing falls from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Tolleson Community Center, 9555 W. Van Buren St., Tolleson. For information and to register, call 623-936-2760.

Coffee with a Cop

The public is invited to have coffee with Goodyear police officers from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at Sugar ’n Spice, 14970 W. Indian School Road, Goodyear. Coffee with a Cop is an opportunity for residents, business owners and the public to meet with officers in an informal setting. Officers and representatives from the Goodyear Police Department will be on hand to share ideas, address concerns, answer questions and share safety information. For information, visit www. goodyearaz.gov/police or call 623-932-1220.

Adults 40 and older can eat lunch and play a game of Bunco from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Community Room behind the Goodyear Branch Library, 14455 W. Van Buren St., Suite C-102, Goodyear. Prizes will be awarded in five categories.The cost is $15. Advance registration is required. To register, call Kristen at 623882-7525.

District 19 Democrats meet

The Legislative District 19 Democrats of Maricopa County meets at 7 p.m. the first Wednesday of every month at Tolleson City Library, 9555 W. Van Buren St. Tolleson. The district includes most of Avondale, all of Tolleson and a portion of southwest Phoenix from Interstate 10 up to 35th Avenue. Its purpose is to support the state’s Democratic representatives, senators and all other elected Democrats on city councils and school boards. For information, call Chair Juli Myers at 570-837-9668 or email ld19dems@gmail.com.

Tolleson Elementary School Board meets

The Tolleson Elementary School District Governing Board meets at 6 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month at the district office, 9261 W. Van Buren St., Tolleson. For information, visit tollesonschools.com.

District 29 Democrats meet

The Legislative District 29 Democrats meets at 7 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month at

Cue the Music

Desert Edge High School will present Cue the Music, a dance concert, at 7 p.m. at 15778 W. Yuma Road, Goodyear.

Superfund meeting

Residents are invited to a meeting to stay informed of the current and planned site activities at the Phoenix Goodyear Airport Superfund Site from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Goodyear Justice Center, 14455 W. Van Buren St., Goodyear.

Meet with Rep. Ruben Gallego

U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-District 7, has a representative from his office available from 9 to 11 a.m. the first Thursday of each month at Tolleson City Hall, 9555 W. Van Buren St., Tolleson. For information, call 602-256-0551.

Entrepreneur round-up

Entrepreneurs are invited to meet other local small business owners at 8 a.m. the first and third Thursday of the month at Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q, 845 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. The group supports the growth of small business in the West Valley, allowing participants to inform the group about their business and services. Owners or managers of all types of businesses are encouraged to attend. For information, email Kevin George at kevin@mrfranchiseadvice.com.

In Stitches in Goodyear meets at 1:30 p.m. every Thursday at the Goodyear Library, 14455 W. Van Buren St., Goodyear. Share ideas, tips and patterns with other crochet, knitting and sewing enthusiasts. Novice to advance needle crafters are welcome. Some basic instruction in needle crafts will be available. For information, call 602-652-3000.

Boy Scout meeting

Boy Scout Troop No. 263 meets at 7 p.m. Thursdays at First Southern Baptist Church, 405 Third St., Buckeye. The troop is looking for boys between the ages of 11 and 18 who are interested in outdoor activities, learning new skills and becoming leaders. For information, call Trina Stark at 623-693-8624.

Community Bingo

The Goodyear White Tanks Rotary Club sponsors Community Bingo at 6:30 p.m.Thursdays at 3690 S. Estrella Parkway, Suite 108, Goodyear. Doors open at 5 p.m.; cost is $21 per person for all 18 games (paper). Daubers and Power Bingo King electronics are available. Proceeds raised benefit local charities. For information, call 623-512-8878.

Friday

Cinco De Mayo celebration

Celebrate Cinco De Mayo from 5 to 8 p.m. with Spanish tradi-

Old Settler’s Union 84th annual picnic

The Buckeye and West Gila Valley old Settler’s Union is holding its 84th annual picnic and meeting at the Palo Verde School located on the northwest corner of Palo Verde Road and Old U.S. Highway 80. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. and the potluck begins at noon. For information, call 623-695-0965.

Racing for Hope Derby

Dress up in your finest southern attire for Homeless Youth Connection’s third annual Racing for Hope event from 1 to 4 p.m. at The Wigwam, 300 E. Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park. Proceeds go to help local homeless youths. Tickets can be purchased at hyc-racing-for-hope.eventbrite. com. For information, call 623374-3747.

Foster and Adoption Fair

Collect resources and information about becoming a foster parent at Foster and Adoption Fair at 8 a.m. at Palm Valley Church, 431 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. For information, call 602-418-4375 or email fosteradoption@palmvalley.org.

Demolition Derby

Buckeye’s annual spring Demolition Derby will begin at 7 p.m. at the Helzapoppin’ Rodeo Arena, 802 N. First St., Buckeye, on

The American Legion Post No. 61 holds a yard sale from 7 a.m. to noon the first Saturday of the month at 35 N. Dysart Road, Avondale. Legion members can rent a table for $5 and nonmembers for $10. For information, call Pam at 623-932-6587.

Goodyear farmer’s market

A farmer’s market is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays through May at Goodyear Community Park, 3151 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. The market features crafts, fruits, vegetables and other homemade creations. For information, visit goodyearaz.gov/rec.

Texas Hold’em games

Texas Hold’em games are held at 6 p.m. every Saturday in the Butler Bistro Room at the American Legion Post 53, 402 E. Narramore Ave. in Buckeye. For information, call 623-327-0227.

Community Bingo

The Rotary Club of Buckeye sponsors Community Bingo at 5 p.m. every Saturday at 3690 S. Estrella Parkway, Suite 108, Goodyear. Doors open at 5 p.m.; cost is $21 per person for all 18 games (paper). Daubers and Power Bingo King electronics are available. Proceeds raised benefit local charities. For information, call 623-512-8878.

at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of the month at the district office, 19871 W. Fremont Road, Buckeye. For information, visit liberty.k12.az.us.

Palo Verde Elem. Board meets

The Palo Verde Elementary School District Governing Board meets at 5:45 p.m. the second Monday of the month at the district office, 10700 S. Palo Verde Road, Palo Verde. For information, visit paloverdeschools.org.

Entrepreneur meet up

Legion Post 143 will meet at 7 p.m. at the Palm Valley Community Center, 14145 W. Palm Valley Blvd., Goodyear. For information, call 480-438-7582.

Cancer support group

A cancer support group meets at 5 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, 918 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. For information, call the church office at 623-932-2394.

Sewing for Babies meets in Peoria

Overeaters Anonymous

Overeaters Anonymous meets at 11 a.m. Tuesdays at Verrado Coffee Co., 1829 N. Verrado Way, Buckeye.

Fitness in the Park

Buckeye hosts Fitness in the Park from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday at Sundance Park, 22865 W. Lower Buckeye Road, Buckeye.

Small business mentoring

Park Branch Library, 101 W. Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park.

Tolleson fall prevention course

The Tolleson Senior Center is hosting a course on preventing falls from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Tolleson Community Center, 9555 W. Van Buren St., Tolleson. For information and to register, call 623-936-2760.

Agua Fria Union High School Board meets

Sunday Arvola’s Tarzan

Southwest Ballet Theatre will perform Arvola’s Tarzan, choreographed by Soili Arvola, at 2 p.m. at Estrella Mountain Community College, 3000 N. Dysart Road, Avondale. Tickets are $24 for general admission and $18 for students ages 18 and younger. For information, visit swbttarzan. brownpapertickets.com.

Group meditation class

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 400 S. Old Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park, hosts a group meditation class from 5 to 6 p.m. Sundays. The class is designed for those desiring to learn meditation or deepen their practice. All faiths are welcome. For information, call the St. Peter’s Office at 623-935-3279 or visit stpetersaz.com.

Community Bingo

The Goodyear White Tanks Rotary Club sponsors Community Bingo at 6:30 p.m. Sundays at 3690 S. Estrella Parkway, Suite 108, Goodyear. Doors open at 5 p.m.; cost is $21 per person for all 18 games (paper). Daubers and Power Bingo King electronics are available. Proceeds raised benefit local charities. For information, call 623-512-8878.

Adrenaline Youth Choir

The Church at Litchfield Park invites children in sixth through 12th grades to participate in the Adrenaline Youth Choir from 4 to 5 p.m. every Sunday in the church’s Choir Room at 300 N. Old Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park. For information, call 623-935-3411 or email info@ churchatlitchfieldpark.org.There is no fee to participate.

Children’s Community Christian Choirs

Chimin’ In Hand Bell — 4:30 to 5 p.m. Fourth- to eighth-graders are invited to participate in a hand chime choir.

Voices in Praise — 5 to 6 p.m. VIP is for third- to fifth-graders.

Joyful Noise — 5:30 to 6 p.m. This group is for children in kindergarten to second grade with an emphasis on musical exploration. Choirs meet at the Church at Litchfield Park, 300 N. Old Litchfield Road,

Litchfield Park. For information, call 623-935-3411 or email info@ churchatlitchfieldpark.org.There is no fee for participation.

Monday

Meet with fellow entrepreneurs to share ideas, ask questions, talk current business trends and receive feedback and advice during the Monday Night Meetup event at 6 p.m. at the Buckeye Coyote Branch Library, 21699 W. Yuma Road, Buckeye. No registration is required.

The Tolleson community sewing group Sewing for Babies meets from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at the JoAnn Etc. store, 8915 W. Bell Road in Peoria.The group makes preemie hospital clothing, quilts for isolettes in hospitals and burial layettes. For information, call 623-936-3412.

Goodyear is offering one-on-one mentoring for business owners and entrepreneurs from 10 a.m. to noon every Tuesday and 1 to 3 p.m. every Thursday.To schedule a mentoring appointment, email darah.mann@goodyearaz.gov.

8

Kinder Readiness Parent Class

Prepare your child for kindergarten at Kinder Readiness Parent Class from 11:30 a.m. to noon at the Litchfield Park Branch Library, 101 W. Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park.

Divorce support group

The DivorceCare support group summer session will meet from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Mondays through July 17 at Christ Presbyterian Church, 925 N. Sarival Ave., Goodyear. The group enables divorced and separated people to find help, discover hope and experience healing. The format includes videos, a workbook, a trained facilitator, and group discussion. The cost of the workbook is $15; scholarships are available. For information, call Carol at 623-340-9205.

Kids support group

The DivorceCare for Kids (DC4K) summer session will meet from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Mondays through July 17 at Christ Presbyterian Church, 925 N. Sarival Ave., Goodyear. The program is for children 5 to 12 who are struggling with the hurt and pain of divorce and separation. The cost of the workbook is $15; scholarships are available. For information, call Carol at 623-340-9205.

Buckeye Union High School Board meets

The Buckeye Union High School District Governing Board meets at 6:15 p.m. the second Monday of the month at the district office, 1000 E. Narramore, Buckeye. For information, visit buhsd.org.

Arlington Elementary School Board meets

The Arlington Elementary School District Governing Board meets at 6 p.m. the second Monday of the month at 9410 S. 355th Ave., Arlington. For information, visit arlingtonelem.org.

Liberty Elementary School Board meets

The Liberty Elementary School District Governing Board meets

Fitness in the Park

Buckeye hosts Fitness in the Park from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday at Sundance Park, 22865 W. Lower Buckeye Road, Buckeye.

Job Readiness Assistance

Avondale and Goodwill of Central Arizona are offering job readiness assistance from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Care1st Avondale Resource Center, 328 W. Western Ave., Avondale. A career adviser is at the center each Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. No registration or scheduling is required. For information, call 623-333-2703.

Citizenship class

People wanting to become U.S. citizens are invited to a free class from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday at the Care1st Avondale Resource Center, 328 W. Western Ave., Avondale.

Crazy 8s club

The Crazy 8s club meets from 4 to 5 p.m. every Monday at the Goodyear Branch Library, 14455 W. Van Buren, Suite C-101, Goodyear. The club is open to third- through fifth-graders who want to learn about math in new ways, including building projects, making music and other techniques.

Computer classes

Learn the basics of operating a computer from 10 to 11 a.m. every Monday at the Buckeye Library Downtown Branch, 310 N. Sixth St., Buckeye. Registration is required. For information, call 623-349-6300.

Tuesday

Way Out West

The Way Out West Coalition meets from noon to 1 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month at the Buckeye Valley Chamber of Commerce, 508 E. Monroe Ave., Buckeye. Way Out West is dedicated to creating a safe, unified, drug-free community.

Tolleson City Council meets

The Tolleson City Council meets at 7 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesday of the month in the Park and Recreation Center, 9555 W. Van Buren St., Tolleson.

Tolleson Union High School board meets

The Tolleson Union High School District Governing Board meets at 6 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at the district office, 9801 W.Van Buren St., Tolleson. For information, visit tuhsd.org.

Litchfield Elementary School Board meets

The Litchfield Elementary School District Governing Board meets at 6 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at Litchfield Elementary School, 255 E. Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park. For information, visit lesd.k12.az.us.

WV LD 4 Democratic Club meets

The West Valley Democratic Club of Legislative District No. 4 meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at Total Wine, 1416 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. For information, call Cathy Hozian at 623-696-5962 or email chozian@cox.net.

Domestic violence support groups

New Life Center offers free confidential support groups for those who have experienced domestic violence. The meetings are held Monday evenings, Tuesday mornings, Wednesday afternoons and Friday afternoons, with varying times and confidential locations. For information, call 623-932-4404, Ext. 123.

Story time

Toddlers ages 2 to 4 accompanied by an adult can enjoy interactive stories, songs and games that encourage emerging language skills at 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. every Tuesday in the Program Room at the Buckeye Library Coyote Branch, 21699 W. Yuma Road, Suite 116, Buckeye. For information, call 623-349-6300.

Baby time

Take your babies from birth to 23 months to enjoy songs, activities, rhymes, books and playtime starting at 9:15 a.m. Tuesdays in the Program Room at the Buckeye Library Coyote Branch, 21699 W.Yuma Road, Suite 116, Buckeye. For information, call 623-349-6300.

Bingo

The American Legion Post No. 61 at 35 N. Dysart Road in Avondale hosts bingo games at 6:45 p.m. Tuesdays. The schedule of 17 games includes Quickies, Double Action, Early Bird games and a $1,000 progressive game. Proceeds are donated back to area youths and veterans. Call 623-932-4960 for information.

Toastmasters meeting

The Agua Fria Union High School District Governing Board meets at 5 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month at the district office, 1481 N. Eliseo Felix Jr.Way, Suite 110, Avondale. For information, visit aguafria.org. 11

How to Pay for College

Learn about different sources of funding to pay for college at How to Pay for College at 5:30 p.m. at the White Tank Branch Library, 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell. Registration is required at mcldaz.org.

Thomas D. Rabjohn Post 143

Thomas D. Rabjohn American

Gangplank’s Hack Night

Collaborate with the nerd community to code, 3D print, and CAD at Gangplank’s Hack Night from 7 to 9 p.m. every Tuesday at 525 N. Central, Avondale.

Job Readiness Assistance

Avondale and Goodwill of Central Arizona are offering job readiness assistance from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Care1st Avondale Resource Center, 328 W. Western Ave., Avondale. A career adviser is at the center each Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. No registration or scheduling is required. For information, call 623-333-2703.

Estrella Toastmasters meets at 6:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce, 289 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. Toastmasters helps people become more effective speakers and confident leaders. The meetings are open to the public and free to attend.

Wednesday

10

How to keep plants healthy in the heat

A master gardener will share tips and tricks to keeping plants healthy in the summer heat from 11 a.m. to noon at the Litchfield

Thursday All About Meditation Relax and practice the seeds of meditation at All About Meditation from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the White Tank Branch Library, 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell.

West Valley View, Avondale, Arizona, Wednesday, May 3, 2017

Meet, Greet & Eat

Meet, Greet & Eat runs from noon to 1 p.m. following a free potluck lunch at 11:30 a.m. at Christ Community United Methodist Church, 104 W. Western Ave. For information, call 623-932-3480.

Saddle Mountain School Board meets

The Saddle Mountain Unified School District Governing Board meets at 6 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at the district office, 38201 W. Indian School Road, Tonopah. For information, visit smusd90.org.

S.M.A.R.T. Referrals Networking Entrepreneurs are invited to network with other local small business owners at the Southwest Marketing and Referrals Team (S.M.A.R.T.) meeting. The group meets at noon the second and fourth Thursday of the month at Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q, 845 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. Owners or managers of all types of businesses are encouraged to attend. For information, contact Darren Mullins at darren.mullins@ libertymutual.com.

Union Elementary School Board meets

The Union Elementary School District Governing Board meets at 6 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at the district office, 3834 S. 91st Ave., Tolleson. For information, visit unionesd.org.

(From Page 20)

Ferenc Rosztoczy passed away Sunday morning, April 23. He had been in declining health for a long time, and he died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family.

Burial-Cremation Servicesstart at ~$2,

Ferenc was born and raised in Hungary. He lived through WWII as a child and the Hungarian Revolution as a young adult. After the revolution he escaped to the U.S., where he arrived with no money and unable to speak English. He wound up at UC Berkeley, where he earned a PhD in physical chemistry (he was pretty smart). He met Diane, married, and started a family while pursuing a career appropriate for his education. In 1975 he moved to Phoenix so he could take over management of Arizona Machinery (the precursor to Stotz Equipment). His life story should be made into a movie someday.

Around the dealership he was legendary for his energy, his brains, his direct communication style (“You have gained weight”), and his ability to know everyone that worked at the company. He built Arizona Machinery into one of the most respected John Deere dealers in the country, built Stotz Dairy in 1980, and had a very successful career investing in real estate.

Ferenc and Diane raised 4 kids Tom (Jill), Rob (Rachel), Stefi McGeorge (Robert) and Teddy (Ali). They have 15 grandkids. As a family man he set a tremendous example for all of us. Despite his significant work responsibilities, he coached soccer teams, attended meets, games, and other events. He was always there when the kids needed advice or some solid bit of wisdom as they navigated their own paths. He was dedicated to Diane for the entire 53+ years of their marriage.

As a member of the community he was incredibly involved, and he has left numerous legacies here locally and around the world. He served on the Agua Fria UHSD School Board for many years. He was honored a few years ago with the inaugural Tin Man Award for service to the local community. Ferenc and Diane started a foundation years ago to provide scholarship opportunities to Hungarian graduate students so they could come study in the U.S. for a year. This past year, he received the Order of Merit from the President of Hungary for his service to the scientific community of Hungary.

Because he was 24 when he got to the US, he never lost his heavy Hungarian accent. As a result, there are also a number of ‘Ferenc-isms’ that many people will remember him by. Ayayay! and Gee Viz!! might be the most wellknown, but his soccer players will also remember Vit Feeling!! Teddy was 12 before he realized that the local resort was actually called the Wigwam and not the Vigvom.

For his family his greatest legacy will be the wisdom he shared with us over the years, through his words and his actions. He worried that the kids would be children of privilege (we certainly were compared to his childhood) so we all got ‘character building’ jobs starting at a young age. He taught us to begin with the end in mind and put first things first before the 7 Habits book was written. He taught us that you always shoot straight with other people and your word is your bond. He had high expectations for all of us, but appropriate to our situation. He taught us to never rest on our laurels, but to keep challenging ourselves. He taught us by asking us questions instead of telling us what to do, so that we felt like we were figuring things out for ourselves.

There is a passage in the Bible where Jesus talks about grain seed being tossed on the ground and some of it lands in good soil and grows to multiply 100 fold. God found great soil when he planted his seed in Ferenc. Those impacted by his life will continue to bear fruit into the future and the ultimate harvest of his life will continue for years to come.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery and Funeral Home. Visitation and Rosary will be held Thursday, May 4 at Holy Cross (9925 W. Thomas Rd, Avondale, AZ) from 5-7 pm. Funeral services will be Friday, May 5 at 10 am at St. John Vianney Church (800 N. Central, Avondale, AZ), with a reception to follow at the Wigwam Resort (300 E. Wigwam Blvd, Litchfield Park, AZ). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Vincent de Paul, St. Thomas Aquinas Conference, c/o St. Thomas Aquinas, 13720 W. Thomas Rd., Avondale, AZ 8 5392.

Connie Jo Caldwell

Connie Jo Caldwell, 71, of Goodyear died April 30, 2017.

Mrs. Caldwell was born Aug. 20, 1945, in Springfield, Ill., to Earl and Fannie Fraze.

She is survived by her husband of 46 years, John Caldwell; one daughter, Sherri Harwood; two sons, Matt Caldwell and Paul Caldwell; one sister, Sandy Shisler; and three grandchildren.

A visitation will be at 5 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 6 p.m. May 9 at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. Interment will be at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix.

Condolences may be left at thompsonfuenralchapel.com.

Charlotte Louise Hill

Charlotte Louise Hill, 85, of Litchfield Park died April 27, 2017, in Sun City.

Mrs. Hill was born Jan. 3, 1932, in Joplin, Mo., to James and Clara Hendry.

She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star for more than 50 years.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Clifton Hill Sr., in 2006.

She is survived by one son, Clifton Hill Jr.

Condolences may be left at thompsonfuneralchapel.com.

Connie Lomeli

Connie Lomeli, 89, of Tolleson died April 26, 2017, in Phoenix.

Connie Lomeli

Mrs. Lomeli was born Oct. 21, 1927, in Marinette to Pablo and Carmen.

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Daniel; one daughter, Ramona; one son, Frank; six grandchildren; and one greatgrandchild.

A celebration of life will be at 10 a.m. Friday at Advantage Crystal Rose Funeral Home, 9155 W. Van Buren, St., Tolleson. Condolences may be left at advantagefunerals.com.

Marie Caroline (Faust) Faver

Marie Faver, an 87 year resident of Buckeye, Arizona passed away April 28, 2017 in her home in the Palo Verde area.

She was born on November 1, 1922 in Cheyenne, Wyoming, moved to Globe, Arizona when she was ten months old as her father was a coal miner. After her father died, she moved in 1930 with her mother, Ida Faust, two sisters Evalyne and Violet and one brother, Joe to the Liberty area. She attended Liberty Elementary School and Buckeye Union High School graduating in 1940. On August 31, 1941, Marie Faust married Lee “Buddy” Faver. Their son, Fred, was born in July 24, 1943 and in later years, Buddy and Marie raised their niece Edie Faver. Music and singing was an important part of her life as was multiple church activities, the Gideon International Ministry, visiting people and sending hundreds of greeting cards throughout her life.

Buddy died in 2009. Her sisters: Evalyne Brabbin, Violet Henry, brother Joe Faust, her mother Ida, and father Joseph preceded her in death.

Marie is survived by her son, Fred, two grandchildren, Robert and Stephanie, five great great grandchildren plus many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Friday May 5, at First Southern Baptist Church in Buckeye with viewing on Thursday May 4, from 6-8 P.M. also at the church.

Donations in Maries’ memory can be made to ComPassion Pregnancy Center at FSBC, 405 N. Third Street, Buckeye, Az. 85326

Francis Leeland Dodds

Francis Leeland Dodds, 92, of Goodyear died April 20, 2017, in Goodyear of a respiratory infection.

Mr. Dodds was born April 17, 1925, in Mt. Pleasant, Mich.

He moved to Arizona in 1969.

He served in the U.S. Navy.

He retired from the Glendale School District.

He was a member of VFW Post 9400 and a volunteer at Arizona VFW hospitals.

He was a past grand commander of the Military Order of the Cootie.

He was a park host at Lake Pleasant and White Horse Lake.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Cora Beth Dodds; and two sons, Donald Dodds and Richard Dodds.

He is survived by three daughters, Mary Dunn of Goodyear, Patricia Hyde of Phoenix and Laura Stubbs of Oregon; 13 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. Funeral services were Tuesday at Phoenix Memorial Park in Phoenix.

The Rev. Carlos Perez officiated.

Janice Lee Key

Janice Lee Key, 68, of Buckeye died April 24, 2017. Mrs. Key was born Jan. 31, 1949, in Bridgeport, Conn., to Jacen and Marion Ward.

She was a volunteer with Camp Fire and the Vital Life Foundation for At Risk Youth.

She was preceded in death by one son, Gregory Martin Key.

She is survived by her husband, Gregory Key; one son, Jay M. Key; one daughter, Holly J. Stark; one sister, Joyce Preston; two grandchildren; and one greatgrandchild.

A graveside service will be at 12:30 p.m. May 8 at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix.

Condolences may be left at thompsonfuneralchapel.com.

Linda Marie Koester

Linda Marie Koester, 69, of Goodyear died April 26, 2017, at her home.

Mrs. Koester was born May 26, 1947, in Vincennes, Ind., to Charles Arthur and Irma Jean Woodburn.

She worked as an insurance purchasing agent for 23 years.

She is survived by her husband, Terry; one son, William Puckett Jr.; two stepdaughters, Melissa Koester and Michelle Kingery; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Private graveside services will be conducted at Crest Haven Memorial Park in Claremont, Ill. Condolences may be left at emmonsmaceysteffey.com.

Justina Torres

Justina Torres, 90, of Goodyear died April 29, 2017, in Peoria.

She was born Sept. 27, 1926, in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, to Belnavel and Guillermina Torres.

She moved to the Bronx, N.Y. , in 1945 and worked in the fashion industry. She worked as a seamstress for Parisian Maid, a distributor for Macy’s and Bamburgers, until her retirement in 1990.

She relocated to Orange County, Calif., then to Goodyear in 2004. She is survived by one daughter, Daisy Diaz; two grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 3 p.m. today at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 539 E. La Pasada Blvd., Goodyear.

Condolences may be left at thompsonfuneralchapel.com.

(See Obituaries on Page 23)

Janice Key

Charlotte Hill

Linda Koester

Francis Dodds

Justina Torres

(From Page 22)

Jerry Lee Raynovic

Jerry Lee Raynovic, 64, of Glendale and formerly of Avondale died April 24, 2017, in Phoenix.

Mr. Raynovic was born Oct. 25, 1952, in Pennsylvania. He is survived by three sons, Nicholas, Evan and Joseph; two brothers, James and George; and three grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Helen’s Catholic Church, 5510 W. Cholla St., Glendale.

Rita Frances Shilliday Scherman

Rita Frances Shilliday Scherman, 84, of Litchfield Park died April 26, 2017, in Phoenix.

Mrs. Scherman was born May 20, 1932, in Pittsburgh to James and Laura Shilliday. She lived in San Diego and worked as a nurse before marrying Robert Scherman. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Robert Scherman; two daughters, Linda Luna and Loretta Scherman; two sons, Robert Scherman and James Scherman; two sisters, Shirley Pajak and Sally Birkner; and two grandchildren.

A viewing will be at 5 p.m., with a rosary at 6 p.m. today at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. A Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 13720 W. Thomas Road Avondale. Interment will be at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix.

Condolences may be left at thompsonfuneralchapel.com.

A word about obituaries

The West Valley View publishes free obituaries for people who were residents or former residents of the West Valley.

We also encourage the use of photos with obituaries. Photos will be cropped to a head shot, so they must be of fairly high resolution (at least 200 dpi) if submitted electronically.

Free obituaries are edited to conform to newspaper style. People who wish to have obituaries published verbatim, without any editing, may purchase a paid obituary; call 623-535-8439.

Funeral homes may submit obituaries using our online form at westvalleyview.com; click on Submit an Obituary. They may also email, fax or mail us obituaries. Our email is news1@ westvalleyview.com. Our fax number is 623935-2103. Our mailing address is West Valley View, Inc., 1050 E. Riley Dr., Avondale, AZ 85323.

A YOUNG GREAT HORNED OWL does its best to look intimidating April 28 in a school corridor at the Buckeye Learning Center in Buckeye. School staffers thought the juvenile was injured but the Arizona Game & Fish Department assured everyone the young raptor’s parents were watching nearby and would retrieve it once night fell. To see all photos from this shoot, go to www.westvalleyview.com/pictures.

AFFORDABLE Weddings! Justice of the Peace packages $990*. All inclusive Wedding packages starting at $2990. Also Graduation parties available. For more information 623-444-8475.

HOLIDAY Inn Express & Suites in Surprise, AZ is hiring for Front Desk, Housekeeping and Laundry. Please apply in person at 16540 N. Bullard Ave, Surprise, AZ 85374.

If you miss our regular deadlines, at the buzzer classified ads are available. Call 623-535-8439 by 11 a.m. on Tuesday Normal Deadline: Friday, 4pm FOR Sale-6 Cemetary plots in Resthaven, Glendale. $2,500 each. Sell all or 2 or 4. 520-456-9034.

You can still get your ad in the paper!

Rita Scherman

At The Buzzer

At Sun Valley Haven

Assisted Living Home

* Your loved ones will be treated like family, with the utmost respect.

*Managed by experienced nurses 623-330-1077 sunvalleyhaven@yahoo.com

BURNED by hot beverage at CircleK before September 2014? Reply to: abranalmr@gmail.com

LUNG CANCER? And 60+ Years Old? If So, You And Your Family May Be Entitled To A Significant Cash Award. Call 877-510-6640 To Learn More. No Risk. No Money Out Of Pocket. (AzCAN)

TURN your signature into an autograph. Songwriters wanted! www.artslakehavasu.com for more info. (AzCAN)

Help Wanted 20

ADVERTISE YOUR JOB Opening in 68 AZ newspapers. Reach over half a million readers for ONLY $330! Call the West Valley View at 623-535-8439 or visit: www.classifiedarizona.com. (AzCAN)

CAREGIVERS and drivers needed. Hiring for summer only and permanent positions. We train for certification to care for special needs. Trainees start $10.00/ hour. Higher pay for experience. 623-547-4839.

CDL Driver needed. 2 years experience required. Wingfield Livestock Transport. Call MondayFriday between 10a.m.-4p.m., 623-386-4454. Ask for Claude.

EARN EXTRA INCOME!

$100-$200 per week

The Arizona Republic wants to contract you to deliver newspapers on the weekend in the Northwest Valley For additional details, contact Bob Griner at 602-444-4069 or rgriner@republicmedia.com

Full time office assistant needed to perform therapies and and assist front office. Experience preferred with ChiroTOUCH. Fax all resumes to 623-925-9047

HOUSEKEEPER with experience, mostly in home cleaning. Full-time, call 623-792-3176, or apply online delascleaning.com

LANDSCAPE Maintenance

Worker needed for Goodyear area. Must speak English, have own transportation. Call Steve 623-399-0139, Monday-Friday 6 a.m.-2 p.m. Starting $11 hour. LOOKING for experienced compassionate CNA’s, Certified Caregivers. Part time/ full time. 623-547-7521.

Paraprofessional Wanted Palo Verde School District 10700 S. Palo Verde Rd. Palo Verde, AZ 85343 623-327-3690

www.paloverdeschools.org ttreece@pvesd.ord

Housekeeping 32

HOUSECLEANING. Valley wide. Honest. Detailed. Reliable. 17 years experience. References Available. 602-481-8627.

PERSONAL touch cleaning without crew, servicing Litchfield Park, Verrado, Estrella Mountain and Goodyear, weekly & biweekly special, Call Robin 623-853-5324.

VALENCIA’S Cleaning. Home, move in/ out, or one time service. 9 years experience. Call for free estimates. 623-241-3404.

Home Sales 50

ADVERTISE your home, property or business for sale in 68 AZ newspapers. Reach over half a million readers for ONLY $330! Call the West Valley View 623-535-8439 or visit: www.classifiedarizona.com. (AZCAN)

New Home on 1.25 acres (Zero) down with approved credit 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 Car Garage with separate workshop In Rainbow Valley $235,900 Tom, DPR Realty 480-797-4970

Land 51

1 to 18 acres, starting $10,000, various locations, payments, owner/ agent, 602-510-8900. OWNER WILL CARRY WITH 10% DOWN PARCEL No. 506-41-311Y 1.25 ACRES with a shared well and a 6’chain link fence near 368th and Lower Buckeye Road RON TRINKA REALTY 623-853-2525

WESTERN New Mexico high country getaway. 3+ acres, central water, underground utilities,trees, views. Surrounded by public land, owner financing. Hitching Post Land Co. 888-812-5830 www.Hitchingpostland.com (AZCAN).

OFFICE/

and lots available. Owner financing. All age family gated community. New homes available. 623-935-4296, 623-826-5398, 623-853-5739.

Adjunct/Part-Time Teaching Opportunities Summer/Fall 2017

Discipline Areas Available:

• American Sign Language (morning and afternoon classes)

• Art • Biology (Fall 2017)

• Chemistry (Fall 2017)

• Computer Science (Fall 2017)

• Engineering (Day and Night Classes)

• English • German

• Humanities

• Math (Day and Night Classes)

• Physics (Day and Night Classes)

• Reading (morning and afternoon classes) • Reading (morning, afternoon and evening classes) at Buckeye Educational Center (BEC) • Storytelling For more information and submission instructions go to: https://jobs.estrellamountain.edu/ Or apply at https: //hr.maricopa.edu/jobs/how-to-apply/ adjunct-teaching-part-time

LOOKING for an affordable 62+ senior apartment? Superior Arboretum Apartments, immediate occupancy, one bedroom & studios, on-site laundry & utility allowance. Rent based on Income Guidelines. 199 W. Gray Dr., Superior, AZ. Call 1-866-962-4804. www.ncr.org/superiorarboretum. Equal Housing Opportunity. Wheelchair accessible. (AzCAN)

Roommates 65

2 ROOMS for Rent to individuals, or both for Parent/ child. $500 month and half of APS. Access to whole 2 story 2,500 sq ft home, with private bath. Dogs ok, no cats please. 623-208-3900.

MATURE female, no smoking, no pets. $500/mo. Includes utilities. $200 deposit. 623-377-0067. Private Entry!

ROOMMATE- Garden LakesAvondale. One bedroom. Utilities included. Pool. Laundry. 623-271-2030.

SAVE YOUR HOME! Are you behind paying your MORTGAGE? Denied a Loan Modification? Is the bank threatening foreclosure? CALL Homeowner’s Relief Line now for Help! 855-801-2882 (AzCAN) SOCIAL SECURITY Disability Benefits. Unable to work? Denied benefits? We can help! WIN or Pay nothing! Contact Bill Gordon & Associates at 1-800-960-3595 to start your application today! (AzCAN)

CAREGIVER- Companion, Patient sitter. Specializing in dementia and alzheimer’s disease. Call Patricia 623-243-6712 or 860-307-0323

HANDYMAN- 37 years experience. Drywall, framing, plumbing, painting, electrical, roofing and more. Stan, 602-434-6057.

LITCHFIELD ClockworksQuality antique clock repair. House calls on grandfather clocks. 623-759-3151.

O.N.B. Specializes in Concrete: patios, driveways, sidewalks, additions and more. Also landscaping and trimming. Free estimates. 623-249-0610 Beto. Residential/Commercial.

Sahuaro Landscape LLC Landscaping Lawn Maintenance Weed Control

Irrigation Installs/Repairs Tree Trimming/Removal Rafael 602-910-0539

YARD work, clean ups, removal, sod installation, irrigation systems, hauling, rock spreading. Juan 623-242-4161, 623-242-4159.

Merchandise 90

ACORN Stairlifts. The affordable solution to your stairs! **Limited time-$250 off your Stairlift purchase!** Buy direct and save. Please call 1-800-268-9843 for free DVD and brochure.

DIGITAL HEARING AIDS Now offering a 45-Day Risk Free Offer! FREE BATTERIES for Life! Call to start your free trial! 877-635-7868 (AzCAN)

DISH TV-BEST DEAL EVER! Only $39.99/mo. Plus $14.99/ mo Internet (where avail.) FREE Streaming. FREE Install (up to 6 rooms.) FREE HD-DVR. Call 1-800-916-0680 (AzCAN)

EMPTY 30 gallon steel drums with cap and ring lids. $20 each. See at West Valley View, 1050 E. Riley Drive, Avondale. Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Email: Rwestfall@westvalleyview.com

NEWSPAPER end rolls for sale, $1.50 and up. One-Half inch of paper or more. West Valley View, 1050 E. Riley Dr., Avondale. Great for children’s fingerpainting and drawing. Or use it for packing dishes, etc. for that big move.

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: 844-843-0520 (AzCAN)

SAFE Step walk-in tub. Alert for Seniors. Bathroom falls can be fatal. Approved by Arthritis Foundation. Therapeutic jets. Less than 4 inch step-in. Wide door. Anti-slip floors. American made. Installation included. Call 800-538-3092 for $750 off. Switch to DIRECTV. Lock in 2-year Price Guarantee ($50/ month) w/AT&T Wireless. Over 145 Channels PLUS Popular Movie Networks for Three Months, No Cost! Call 1-800-404-9329. (AzCAN)

Garage Sales 91

10363 W WILLOW Ln, Avondale. Saturday, May 6. 8 a.m.-noon. Lots of nice clothes, sewing machine, hardly used booster seat, sports items, Shark floor cleaner, and much more!

CHURCH Thrift Store, Saturday 8:30-12:30, 300 N. Old Litchfield Road, (across from Wigwam Spa). Summer clothes and shoes, bedding, books, jewelry, kitchen items, furniture and more!

INDOOR Sale-by appointment only. Litchfield Park area. Lift chair, twin XL adjustable bed, select furniture, TV, clothing, books, artworks and supplies. Email ars5960@yahoo.com. Text or call 623-221-1815.

MULTI Family Garage Sale. Friday and Saturday. May 5 and 6 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. 15132 W. Taylor St., Goodyear.

DOG pampering. One day or one week. Huge backyard. Lots of TLC, 623-935-4311.

Automotive 500

$ $100-$500+ ABANDONED all as is autos! Good condition more $$$$. Best prices! Fast, free pick up. 623-329-2043.

$ $100-$500+ ABANDONED all autos! Any condition. Good condition more $$$$! Call 602-561-6291.

1998 FORD Explorer-Runs good, automatic, 2-door. $1,750. Call after 4 p.m. 623-932-4232.

DONATE YOUR CAR TO CHARITY. Receive maximum value of write off for your taxes. Running or not! All conditions accepted. Free pickup. Call for details.866-932-4184 (AzCAN)

Sigler Wholesale Distributor as the sole distributor of

and

HVAC products in the

of

Notice is hereby given pursuant to City of Avondale Procurement Code Article III, 25-23 that the City of Avondale intends to award a contract to Sigler Wholesale Distributor for the generally described equipment. A listing of equipment and parts may be obtained by contacting, Joel Evans at the address below, or by telephone at 623-333-2430.

The City believes that Sigler Wholesale Distributor is the sole provider of such equipment to meet the City’s required equipment and operational needs because Sigler Wholesale Distributors is the sole distributor of Carrier Commercial and Residential products in the State of Arizona, as well as much of the southwestern United States.

Any protest of this sole-source procurement by an Affected Person must be in writing and must be received by Loretta Browning, Procurement Officer, at Avondale City Hall 11465 W. Civic Center Drive on or before May 17, 2017. Affected Persons may submit comments directly to the Procurement Office. The risk of timely delivery is upon the person submitting the protest. “Affected Person” means a person whose ability to participate in the procurement is adversely affected by the decision that the goods and services are available from only one source. A written protest must include:

A detailed statement of the legal and factual grounds for the protest; A description of the resulting harm to the person submitting the protest; and The relief requested.

Published in the West Valley View, and the West Valley Business on May 3, and 10, 2017.

General

Public Notice

ARIZONA STATE LAND DEPARTMENT 1616 WEST ADAMS STREET PHOENIX, ARIZONA 85007 PUBLIC AUCTION SALE NO. 53-117148

Pursuant to A.R.S. Title 37, notice is hereby given that the state of Arizona through its Arizona State Land Department (herein called ASLD), will sell at Public Auction to the highest and best bidder at 11:00 a.m. on

CITY OF AVONDALE

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING MAY 23, 2017

Wednesday, June 14, 2017, at the Arizona State Land Department, 1616 West Adams Street, Lower Level Auditorium, Phoenix, Arizona, trust lands situated in Maricopa County to wit: TOWNSHIP 2 SOUTH, RANGE 4 WEST, G&SRM, MARICOPA COUNTY, ARIZONA PARCEL: SOUTH 3,540 FEET EXCEPT W2W2SW, SECTION 25, CONTAINING 389.10 ACRES, MORE OR LESS. LOCATION: SOUTH OF KOMATKE ROAD, EAST OF STATE ROUTE 85 AND BUCKEYE, ARIZONA BENEFICIARY: PERMANENT COMMON SCHOOLS (INDEMNITY SELECTIONS)

For a complete legal description of the land, prospective bidders are advised to examine the purchase application file as well as all pertinent files of ASLD.

The land has been appraised at $2,686,000.00 and consists of 389.10 acres, more or less. There are no reimbursable improvements.

The above described lands are sold subject to existing reservations, easements, or rights of way.

The ASLD does not represent or warrant that access exists over lands, which may intervene respectively between the above parcel(s) and the nearest public roadway.

The complete file associated with the described land is open to public inspection at the ASLD, 1616 West Adams Street, Phoenix, Arizona, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., exclusive of holidays and weekends. Please direct any questions regarding this Public Auction to the Real Estate Division of ASLD at (602) 542-3000. This auction notice is available on the ASLD’s web site at www.azland.gov.

Pursuant to the provisions of A.R.S. §37-231, the state of Arizona or its predecessor in title, reserve and retain all rights and all forms of access to all oil, gas, minerals, hydrocarbon substances and gaseous substances or any other material which is essential to the production of fissionable materials as provided by the rules and regulations of ASLD and the laws of Arizona.

Each potential bidder must show ASLD’s representative a cashier’s check made payable to the Arizona State Land Department in the amount specified under Terms of Sale Paragraph (A) below. TERMS OF SALE: (A) At the time of auction the

You are invited to attend a neighborhood meeting to discuss concurrent requests by Mr. William E. Lally, Tiffany & Bosco, P.A., for a General Plan Amendment (Case PL-17-0052) and Rezoning (Case PL-17-0051) concerning approximately 62 acres of undeveloped land located approximately 1,350 feet north of the northwest corner of 99th Avenue and McDowell Road, assessor parcels 102-32-003E, 102-31-001E, 102-31-011A, and 102-31-014A. The General Plan Amendment request will change the land use designation from Urban Commercial to Mixed Use; the Mixed Use designation encourages innovative land development with proportional residential and commercial components, where people can live, work and recreate within a planned, walkable area. The accompanying rezoning request will replace the property’s existing PAD (Planned Area Development) with a new PAD reflective of the Mixed Use General Plan Designation. The proposed PAD includes commercial, hotel, single-family residential, and multi-family residential components planned in a horizontally integrated environment.

At the meeting, the applicant and/or her representative will be available to answer questions and solicit comments on this request. Please note, this is not a public hearing and no official action will be taken.

The meeting is scheduled for:

Date: Tuesday, may 23, 2017

Time: 6:00 PM

Place: Avondale City Hall, Sonoran Conference Room (1st Floor)

Address: 11465 W. Civic Center Drive, Avondale, AZ 85323

The applicant contact for this project: Mr. William Lally (602) 255-6000 City of Avondale contact for this project: Ken Galica (623) 333-4019

Published in the West Valley View, and the West Valley Business on May 3, 2017.

PURSUANT TO ARIZONA REVISED STATUTES SECTIONS 9-462.04 et seq., NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that the Planning Commission and City Council will be holding separate public hearings at the dates and times set forth above, in the place specified above, at which times and place all interested persons will have an opportunity to appear and be heard in relation to the following: Rezone from Community Commercial (C-2) to Planned Area Development (PAD) Conditional Use Permit for an Assisted Living Facility

These are public hearing before the Planning Commission and the City Council to review and solicit public input on PL-17-0004, and PL-17-002 a request by Mr. Mike Kolejka, of Orcutt Winslow Partnership, regarding a request to rezone approximately 5.7 acres of vacant land from the current C-2 Zoning District to the Planned Area Development (PAD) Zoning District for the development of an assisted living and memory care facility known as “Solterra Avondale (PL-17-0004). The subject property is located on the south side of Van Buren Street approximately 335-feet west of 4th Street. In addition to the rezone application, the applicant has also requesting approval of a Conditional Use Permit (PL-17-0002) for the assisted living facility.

Information regarding the proposal may be obtained by contacting the City of Avondale Planning Division located at 11465 W. Civic Center Dr., Suite 110, Avondale, Arizona. Written comments on the request may be submitted to the Planning Division for consideration by the Planning Commission. If you have any questions concerning this request, please contact Rick Williams with the Avondale Planning Division at (623) 333-4018.

Published in the West Valley View, and the West Valley Business on May 3, 2017.

(6) Patent Fee of $200.00. The total amount due at the time of sale is $372,630.00 (less $23,250.00 if the successful bidder is the applicant for a total amount due of $349,380.00).

(B) Within 30 days after the auction date the successful bidder must pay the full balance of the amount bid for the land and pay a Selling and Administrative Fee of 3% of the purchase price, less the amount paid under (A) (2) above.

(C) Within 30 days after the auction date the successful bidder must pay the actual legal advertising cost, less the amount paid under (A)(3) above.

ADDITIONAL

CONDITION(S):

The patent for the subject property shall include the following conditions and restrictions: In the event any archaeological, paleontological,

or historical site or object, or Human remains or funerary object, that is at least fifty years old, is discovered during grounddisturbing activities, the work shall cease, and the patentee shall notify the Director of the Arizona State Museum, pursuant to A.R.S. §41-844, and the Arizona State Land Department Cultural Resources Manager.

BIDDING INFORMATION:

(A) The time of sale shall be deemed to be the time of declaration of the highest and best bidder. The bidding will begin at the total appraised value of $2,686,000.00. A bid for less than the appraised value of the land or by a party who has not inspected the land and/or the associated files and records of ASLD will not be considered. Additional bidding increments shall be a minimum of $10,000.00 thereafter. Bidding will be conducted orally.

(B) All bidders must sign an affidavit stating that they have undertaken due diligence in preparation for the auction, that their representative is authorized to bid and bind the bidder and that they are purchasing the property AS IS. It is the bidder’s responsibility to research the records of local jurisdictions, all ASLD files pertinent to the purchase application file including the purchase application file, and all other public agencies regarding this property. Notice is

hereby given that the property shall be purchased in an “AS-IS” condition “WITH ALL FAULTS”, with no representation or warranty being made by ASLD of any type or nature. All bidders shall acknowledge and agree pursuant to the aforementioned affidavit that they are purchasing the property solely upon the basis of their own due diligence and investigation of the property and not on the basis or any representation, express or implied, written or oral, made by ASLD or its agents or employees, except as set forth in writing herein. Without limiting the generality of the forgoing, notice is hereby given that ASLD makes no warranty as to the following:

(a) the physical condition or any other aspect of the property, including, but not limited to, the uses to which the property may be put, the ability to construct additional improvements or modify existing improvements on any portion of the property or the ability to obtain building permits for any portion of the property, the conformity of the property to past, current or future applicable landscaping, parking, zoning or building code requirements, the existence of soil instability, past soil repairs, soil additions or conditions of soil fill, susceptibility to landslides, sufficiency of undershoring, water retention characteristics

of the property, drainage onto or off of the property, the location of the property either wholly or partially in a flood plain or a flood hazard boundary or similar area, or any other matter affecting the stability or integrity of the land or any improvements constituting the property; or (b) the sufficiency of the property for purchaser’s purposes or as to its continued operating conditions or usefulness. All implied warranties, including, without limitation, WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, are hereby expressly disclaimed. This notice shall survive the delivery of the Certificate of Purchase and Patent for the subject property.

(C) Pursuant to A.R.S. §37240(B), the successful bidder must be authorized to transact business in the state of Arizona no later than ten (10) business days after the auction. The successful bidder must sign an affidavit stating it is the successful bidder and sign a Certification Statement pursuant to A.R.S. Title 37 and the Rules of ASLD.

(D) If the successful bidder fails to complete the payments as stated in the auction notice together with the additional required fees within 30 days from the auction date, all amounts paid at the time of auction by the successful bidder will be forfeited.

(E) In the event of forfeiture, the ASLD Commissioner may declare that the bid placed before the final bid accepted is the highest bid, and that the bidder has five (5) business days after notification by ASLD to pay by cashier’s check all amounts due.

GENERAL INFORMATION:

The ASLD may cancel this auction in whole or in part at any time prior to the acceptance of a final bid.

A protest to this sale must be filed within 30 days after the first day of publication of this announcement and in accordance with A.R.S. §37-301.

Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter, by contacting the ADA Coordinator, at (602) 542-2636. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation. Max D. Masel (for) Lisa A. Atkins State Land Commissioner State Land Department Seal March 27, 2017

Disclaimer: This map is designed for general overview purposes only. Unless otherwise stated all depictions are approximate. Prospective bidders should review all information in ASLD’s records relating to the property and seek technical or legal advice as needed to assure

(928)453-7132

SUPERIOR COURT OF ARIZONA MOHAVE COUNTY Case Number: D0-201607283 SUMMONS Theodore Walter Greene Jr, Plantiff

and Donna Jane Greene, Defendant

OF ARIZONA TO: Donna Jane Greene, Defendant

1. A lawsuit has been filed against you. A copy of the lawsuit and other court papers are served on your with this Summons. 2. If you do not want a judgement or order taken against you without your input, you must file and “Answer” or a “Response” in writing with the Court, and pay the filing fee. If you do not file an “answer” or “Response” the other party may be given the relief requested in his or her Petition or Complaint. To file your “Answer” or “Response” take, or send, the “Answer” or “Response” to the Office of the Clerk of the Superior Court, 401 East Spring Street, Kingman, AZ 86401 (P.O. Box 7000, Kingman, AZ 86402-7000) or the Office of the Clerk of Superior Court, 2225 Trane Road, Bullhead City, AZ 86442, or Office of the Clerk of the Superior Court, 2001 College Drive, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86404. Mail a copy of your “Answer” or “Response” to the other party at the address

listed on the top of this Summons.

3. If this Summons and the other court papers were served on you by a registered process server or the Sheriff, within the State of Arizona, your “Response” or “Answer” must be filed within TWENTY (20) CALENDAR DAYS, starting the day after you were served. If this “Summons” and other court papers were served on you by a registered process server of the Sheriff outside of the State of Arizona, your “Response” must be filed within THIRTY (30) CALENDAR DAYS, starting the day after you were served. Service by a registered process server or the Sheriff is complete when made. Service by Publication is complete (30) days after the date of the first publication. 4. You can get a copy of the court papers filed in this case from the Petitioner at the address at he top of this paper, or from the Clerk of the superior Court a the address listed in Paragraph 2 above.

5. Requests for reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities must be made to the office of the judge or commissioner assigned to the case, at least (5) days before your scheduled court date.

SIGNED AND SEALED this date: 9-21-16

By: VIRLYNN TINNELL, Clerk of the Superior Court

L. BENSHOOF, Deputy Clerk

Published in the West Valley View, and the West Valley Business on April 12, 19, 26, and May 3, 2017.

Public Notice

EPA announces the next Community Advisory Group (CAG) meeting of the PhoenixGoodyear Airport Superfund site on Thursday, May 4, 2017 at 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm at the City of Goodyear Justice Center, 14455 W. Van Buren St., Suite B-101, Goodyear, AZ 85338. For information on the PhoenixGoodyear Airport Superfund project please go to the EPA website listed below. http://www.epa.gov/superfund/ phoenix-goodyearairport

Published in the West Valley View, and the West Valley Business on April 26, and May 3, 2017.

Public Notice

INVITATION TO BID

Bids: Wednesday, May 31, 2017

Time 2:00 pm

Project: Victory – Tuthill Channel Verrado ARC LLC seeks qualified General Contractors, with a minimum A- General Engineering license, to submit sealed bids for the Victory District

– Tuthill Channel in accordance with the plans and specifications (the “Work”). The Successful Contractor shall be responsible for all coordination associated with the Work. Copies of the plans, specifications, bid documents and detailed information for this project will be available on April 26, 2017. Contact Terri Kading tkading@dmbinc.com to make arrangements to receive the bid documents. A MANDATORY pre-bid meeting will be held in the Victory Development Office located at 4236 N. Verrado Way, Buckeye, AZ 85396 – Friday, May 12, 2017, 10:00 am. All interested parties are invited to attend. It is recommended that interested parties RSVP prior to the meeting. Sealed bids will be received at the City of Buckeye, City Clerk’s Office, located at 530 E Monroe, Buckeye, AZ 85326. Bids are due Wednesday, May 31, 2017, 2:00 pm. Bids submitted after specified closing time will not be accepted. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud immediately after the specified closing time. Unless all bids are rejected, the Contract will be awarded within twenty one (21) days. The Contract will be awarded to the lowest qualified bidder that submits a complete and accurate bid. A complete and accurate bid will include all information requested in the bid documents. Every bid made by a

Contractor pursuant to this Notice shall be accompanied by a surety bond for ten percent (10%) of the bid amount, listing Verrado ARC LLC as the Obligee, as a guarantee that the Contractor will enter into a contract to perform the Work, or as liquidated damages in the event the Contractor refuses or fails to enter into the Contract with Verrado ARC LLC upon award. Cashiers checks will not be accepted. The bonds will be returned to all Contractors whose bids are not awarded the Contract, and to the successful Contractor, upon execution of the Contract, and receipt of Payment and Performance bonds for the Work. The cost for providing Payment and Performance bonds shall be included in the bid submittal. A Payment and Performance bond will be required in the amount of 100% of the original Contract value for the duration of the Contract. All bidders shall be required to submit, with their bid proposal, a completed Certificate of Insurance evidencing their ability to meet the insurance requirements for this project. The Contractor shall carry property damage and public liability insurance and shall hold and save harmless Verrado ARC LLC, DMB White Tank, LLC, the City of Buckeye and the Verrado District 1 Community Facilities District from any employer’s liability and

from any and all liens for materials or labor in connection with this Work as specified in the bid documents. Any bids submitted without the bid bond, certificate of insurance and any other items as required in the bid documents will be deemed incomplete, and will be rejected. Verrado ARC LLC reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to withhold the award for any reason Verrado ARC LLC determines necessary and appropriate. Award of the successful bid shall be subject to approval by Verrado ARC LLC or its representatives. Interested parties shall refer to the bid package and addendums for further information, or contact Terri Kading at tkading@dmbinc. com – reference Victory – Tuthill Channel. No engineer’s estimate will be distributed. Published in the West Valley View, and the West Valley Business on April 26, and May 3, 2017.