Valley Vibe July 2023 Issue

COMPILED BY CAITLIN COULTER events@valleyvibenews.com

SATURDAY, JULY 1

Anthem Cars and Coffee

7–10 a.m.

Outlets North Phoenix 4250 W. Anthem Way, Phoenix 602-770-7797

www.anthemcarsandcoffee.com

Free

Check out some cool cars from the community and local vendor booths.

SATURDAYS, JULY 1–29

Arrowhead Farmers Market

8–11 a.m.

Weekend Vibes & SPECIAL EVENTS

Arrowhead Towne Center 7780 W. Arrowhead Towne Center Glendale 602-703-7154

www.getlocalarizonaevents.com/ saturdaymarket Free admission

Check out different vendors each week ranging from fresh produce to handmade crafts. See full list of participants online.

SATURDAYS, JULY 1–29

Pinnacle Peak Farmers Market

7–11 a.m.

Deer Valley Towne Center 2805 W. Agua Fria Fwy, Phoenix www.facebook.com/ pinnaclepeakfarmersmarket

Free admission

Shop for produce, food items and handmade goods from local farmers, vendors and artisans.

SATURDAY, JULY 1–

TUESDAY, JULY 4

World’s Oldest Rodeo

Prescott Rodeo Grounds

840 Rodeo Drive, Prescott 928-445-3103

www.worldsoldestrodeo.com

$15–$40

Western royalty pageants, rodeo dances, movie nights, shopping, bull riding, mutton busting, arts and crafts, parades, boot races and horse shows. See full schedule online.

SATURDAY, JULY 1–SUNDAY, JULY 2

2 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Starlight Community Theater 1611 W. Whispering Wind Drive Suite 9, Phoenix 623-252-6815

www.starlightcommunitytheater.com

$25

A thrilling production put on by local actors that follows an author held captive by a devastated fan.

SATURDAY, JULY 1–

SUNDAY, JULY 23

‘The Wizard of Oz’

Various showtimes

Arizona Broadway Theatre 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria

This Spanish guitar legend performs live at El Pedregal at the Boulders on Tuesday, July 4 in Scottsdale.

623-776-8400, www.azbroadway.org

$45–$120/Dinner and show; $35–$95/Show only

A stage adaptation of the classic journey of Dorothy and her friends down the yellow brick road.

SATURDAY, JULY 1–

SUNDAY, JULY 9

‘The Prom’

Various showtimes

The Phoenix Theatre Company 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix 602-254-2151, www.phoenixtheatre.com

$54–$149

A musical comedy following four Broadway performers who put on a prom for a small town in Indiana.

SATURDAY, JULY 1

Kelsea Ballerini

8 p.m.

Arizona Financial Theatre

400 W. Washington St., Phoenix 602-379-2888

https://concerts.livenation.com

$39–$69

The “Heartfirst” tour, also featuring Georgia Webster.

MONDAY, JULY 3

Louis Tomlinson

7 p.m.

Arizona Financial Theatre

400 W. Washington St., Phoenix 602-379-2888

https://concerts.livenation.com

$49–$95

The “Faith in the Future” world tour, also featuring The Snuts and Andrew Cushin.

TUESDAY, JULY 4

Esteban

7 p.m.

El Pedregal at the Boulders 34505 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite F12 Scottsdale

480-488-9009

www.estebanmusic.com/concert-events

$35–$79

The Spanish guitar icon performs live.

FRIDAY, JULY 7

TLC

7 p.m.

Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix 602-254-7200

https://concerts.livenation.com

$18–$125

Live in concert with special guests Shaggy, En Vogue and Sean Kingston.

See The Phoenix Theatre’s “The Prom”, a small town, Midwest tale on Saturday, July 1 through Sunday, July 9.

SATURDAY, JULY 8

Jungle Jill’s Animal Encounters

11–11:45 a.m.

North Valley Regional Library 40410 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem 602-652-3000

https://evanced.mcldaz.org Free

Hangout with eight different birds and lizards while Jungle Jill tells all about them.

SUNDAY, JULY 9

Anthem Market in the Park

7:30–11:30 a.m.

Anthem Community Park 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem 623-742-6050

www.onlineatanthem.com Free

An outdoor retail shopping event hosted by the Anthem Community Council and the Market on 41st.

SUNDAY, JULY 9

Phoenix Zoo Presents: Careers in Conservation

1–2 p.m.

North Valley Regional Library 40410 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem 602-652-3000

https://evanced.mcldaz.org

Free

Join a representative from the Phoenix Zoo to learn how conservation biologists protect endangered species, as well as genetic research done at the zoo. Registration required.

TUESDAY, JULY 11

The Home Edit: Summer of Fun

8 p.m.

Gila River Resorts & Casinos: Wild Horse Pass 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd. Chandler 1-800-946-4452, ext. 7370 https://thehomeedit.com/pages/tour

$43–$104

Organization tips and tricks presented live by “The Home Edit” stars Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12–SATURDAY, JULY 22

Food Pantry Drive

2:45–8 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Saturday & Sunday

North Valley Regional Library 40410 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy. Anthem 602-652-3000

https://evanced.mcldaz.org

Free

Drop off essential non-expired and non-perishable items for local food banks to help out with the usual summer lull in donations.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12

Nickelback

6:30 p.m.

Footprint Center

201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix 602-379-7800

www.ticketmaster.com

$33–$200

The “Get Rollin’” tour, also featuring Brantley Gilbert and Josh Ross.

FRIDAY, JULY 14–

SUNDAY, JULY 16

Maricopa County

Home Show

10 a.m.–5 p.m.

State Farm Stadium

1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale 623-433-7101

https://maricopacountyhomeshows. com

$10

Gardening and home design/ renovation seminars, shopping

with innovative home product vendors, crafting workshops, an old school game room and free food and beverage samples.

SATURDAY, JULY 15–

SUNDAY, JULY 16

Experience France

9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Musical Instrument Museum

4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix 480-478-6000, www.mim.org

$10–$27/Adults; $4–$19/Teens ages 13–19; $4–$14/Children ages 4–12; Free/Children 3 and under

In celebration of Bastille Day, enjoy live performances of French music, including French jazz from Zazu West, accordion playing by Tony Putrino, hymns on the pipe organ by Valerie Harris and a jazz twist from international group Paris Chansons. Plus, curator talks for the France exhibit.

SATURDAY, JULY 15

Big Red Bullriding

7 p.m.

Westworld of Scottsdale 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale 480-312-6815

www.westworldaz.com

$30

Live bull riding set to live rock music, performed by local band Ded.

SUNDAY, JULY 16

‘Cats Young Actors Edition’

9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Musical Theatre of Anthem 42201 N. 41st Drive, Suite B100

Anthem

623-336-6001

www.musicaltheatreofanthem.org

$450/Production

Ages 13–18 are welcome to audition for a role in the upcoming production for youths, “Cats,” an adaptation of the Andrew Lloyd Webber hit musical.

SUNDAY, JULY 16

‘Great American Songbook’

4 p.m.

Desert Hills Presbyterian Church 34605 N. Tom Darlington Road

Scottsdale 480-488-3384

https://deserthills.org/events

Free Iconic popular jazz songs

performed live by We3, featuring vocalist Renee Patrick, violinist Suzanne Lansford and pianist Nicole Pesce.

TUESDAY, JULY 18

3 Doors Down

7:30 p.m.

Arizona Financial Theatre

400 W. Washington St., Phoenix 602-379-2888

https://concerts.livenation.com

$39–$99

The “Away from the Sun” anniversary tour, also featuring Candlebox.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 19

Morgan Wallen

5:30 p.m.

Chase Field

401 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix 602-462-6500, www.ticketmaster.com

$69–$349

The “One Night at a Time” world tour, also featuring Hardy, Ernest and Bailey Zimmerman.

FRIDAY, JULY 21

Art Affaire

5–7 p.m.

The Finer Arts Gallery 6137 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek 480-488-2923

www.thefinerartsgallery.com Free

Explore the latest works of 45 local, juried artists specializing in ceramics, glass, wood, jewelry, paintings, photography and more.

SATURDAY, JULY 22

Disturbed

6:30 p.m.

Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix 602-254-7200

https://concerts.livenation.com

$22–$209

The “Take Back Your Life” tour, also featuring Breaking Benjamin and Jinjer.

SATURDAY, JULY 22

Madonna

8:30 p.m.

Footprint Center 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix 602-379-7800, www.ticketmaster.com

$103–$570

The “Celebration” tour.

SUNDAY, JULY 23

Jason Mraz

7:30 p.m.

Arizona Financial Theatre

400 W. Washington St., Phoenix 602-379-2888

https://concerts.livenation.com

$39–$126

The “Mystical Magical Rhythmical Radical Ride” tour, also featuring Celisse.

TUESDAY, JULY 25

Bryan Adams

7:30 p.m.

Footprint Center 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix 602-379-7800, www.ticketmaster.com

$34–$144

The “So Happy it Hurts” tour, also featuring Joan Jett and the Blackhearts.

THURSDAY, JULY 27–

SATURDAY, JULY 29

‘Cats Young

Actors Edition’

Various showtimes

Musical Theatre of Anthem 42201 N. 41st Drive, Suite B100 Anthem 623-336-6001

www.musicaltheatreofanthem.org

$25

An adaptation of the Andrew Lloyd Webber hit musical performed by local youth actors ages 13–18.

FRIDAY, JULY 28–SUNDAY, JULY 30

Jurassic World Live

Various showtimes

Footprint Center 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix 602-379-7800

www.ticketmaster.com

$25–$125

An action-packed show full of dinosaurs and scientists on stage.

Jurassic World Live invades the Footprint Center Friday, July 28 through Sunday, July 30.

Ways to Celebrate the Fourth

COMPILED BY CAITLIN COULTER events@valleyvibenews.com

TheValley is bursting with festive affairs to observe the nation’s holiday.

Monday, July 3

● 1 Fireworks & Fun: Anthem Independence Day Celebration

5:30–9:30 p.m.

Anthem Community Park 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem 623-742-6050 www.onlineatanthem.com/events/independence day celebration.php Free

A full evening of festivities from fireworks to fair food favorites. Before the final fireworks show (weather and fire conditions permitting), activities include a live DJ, dancing, inflatables, rides, entertainment by stilt walkers and jugglers, a glitter tattoo station, a rotary beer garden and a fleet of food trucks.

What to bring

• Personal chairs

• Blankets

• Pop-up tents

• Coolers

What to leave at home

• Alcoholic beverages

• BBQ grills

• Personal fireworks

• Pets

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, carpool if possible and prepare for heavy traffic and parking. View the full list of community closures and the traffic control plan online.

All-you-can-ride-and-slide wristbands can be purchased in advance at the following locations for $20 each.

Anthem Civic Building 3701 W. Anthem Way

Anthem Community Center 41130 N. Freedom Way

Food and Drink Vendors

• Anthem Rotary Club Beer Garden

• Young’s Smoke-N BBQ

• Knights of Columbus

• Tennessee Grill

• Nina’s Concessions

• Moore of That

• Mel N Libby’s

• Safari Samosas

• Kona Ice

• Jeff & Carolyn’s Ice Cream Truck

• Frosted Frenzy Cupcakes

• Ava’s Kettle Corn

• Dippin’ Dots Ice Cream

Celebrations Around the Valley

Saturday, July 1

● 2 Light Up the Sky Celebration

6–9 p.m.

Phoenix Raceway 7602 Jimmie Johnson Drive, Avondale 623-333-2400

https://tinyurl.com/4zk8u55d Free

Dance to a live DJ, play cornhole, tailgate, check out the kid zone, listen to live music and watch the fireworks finale.

Hometown 4th at Schnepf Farms

Monday, July 3

● 3 Celebrate America 2023

5–10:30 p.m. Pleasant Harbor at Lake Pleasant 8708 W. Harbor Blvd., Peoria 623-235-6130

https://pleasantharbor.com/events

$35/Vehicle

Spend the evening at the shores of Lake Pleasant with kid activities, inflatable water slides, bounce

houses, food trucks, novelty vendors, fireworks and a live concert by Rock Lobster.

Tuesday, July 4

● 4 Red, White and Boom

3–9:30 p.m. Prescott Valley Civic Center 7501 Civic Circle, Prescott 928-759-3090

www.prescottvalley-az.gov/1141/Red-White-and-Boom Free

Carnival rides, splash inflatables, fireworks, family activities and local craft beers and food trucks. Live music performances by Tyller Gummersall and Trailer Park Millionaires.

Tuesday, July 4

● 5 Gilbert 4th of July Celebration

4–9:30 p.m. Gilbert Regional Park 3005 E. Queen Creek Road, Gilbert 480-503-6000

All-American Festival at Peoria Sports Complex

Celebration of Freedom

Celebrate America at Lake Pleasant

https://tinyurl.com/2kbu7esf Free

Live music by Buddy Martell Band and Voyager. Plus, aerial entertainment, drones and fireworks.

Tuesday, July 4

● 6 Hometown 4th of July

4–9 p.m. Schnepf Farms

24810 S. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek 480-987-3100 www.schnepffarms.com

$40/Vehicle

Food trucks, foam pit, vendor row, water inflatables, patriotic music and fireworks display.

Tuesday, July 4

● 7 All-American Festival

5–10 p.m. Peoria Sports Complex 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria 623-773-7133

www.peoriaaz.gov/government/departments/artsculture/special-events/all-american-festival Free

Live music by Azz Izz and Roger Clyne and The Peacemakers, with a VIP meet-and-greet experience available for purchase ($50). Plus, huge water slides, a cornhole tournament, concessions and a fireworks display.

Tuesday, July 4

● 8 Firework Fest

5–9 p.m. Westgate Entertainment District 6770 N. Sunrise Blvd., Glendale 480-387-5678

https://westgateaz.com/event/america Free

An open-air beer garden, classically restored fire trucks, a kid’s splash zone, face painting, balloon twisting, local dinner deals and fireworks. Live music including The Fighter Country Talent Squad and Hillbilly Deluxe.

Tuesday, July 4

● 9 Scottsdale’s 10th Annual 4th of July Celebration

5–9 p.m.

Westworld of Scottsdale 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale 480-656-9940 www.scottsdale4th.com

$50/Ages 11 and up; $30/Ages 5–10; Free/Ages 4 and under; $20/Vehicle for fireworks only

A Wild West celebration of the country’s independence with bull riding, mutton busting, knight training, slider eating contests, children’s character meet and greets, face painting, circus performances, unlimited BBQ food, parade of heroes and finally, fireworks.

Tuesday, July 4

● 10 Tempe 4th of July Celebration

5–10 p.m.

Tempe Diablo Stadium 2200 W. Alameda Drive, Tempe

Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers performs during the All-American Sports Festival at the Peoria Sports Complex on Tuesday, July 4.

480-350-5205

www.tempe4th.com

$10/Ages 10 and up; Free/Ages 9 and under

The 71st annual celebration hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Tempe features fireworks, live music from NineBall and Presley Tennant and a family fun zone featuring rides, inflatables and rock wall climbing.

Tuesday,July 4

● 11 Celebration of Freedom

6–10 p.m.

Mesa Convention Center

263 N. Center St., Mesa

480-644-2178

www.azcelebrationoffreedom.com

Free

The event kicks off with live patriotic music by the Mesa City Band and a Naturalization Ceremony to welcome 100 new U.S. citizens from several different countries. More live music follows by Cold Shott and The Hurricane Horns and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Arizona Band. Plus, live war reenactments, a laser light show, a display

of historic U.S. flags, carnival games, an arts and crafts showcase, a stunt show, a splash zone with inflatable water slides, a car show, an all-American food court and of course, a fireworks show.

Tuesday, July 4

● 12 Star Spangled 4th

6–10 p.m.

Goodyear Ballpark

1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear 623-882-3120

www.goodyearaz.gov/government/departments/parksrecreation/special-events

Free

Live music by Lucky Devils Band, food trucks, bounce houses and the main attraction: a mesmerizing fireworks show.

Tuesday, July 4

● 13 Fabulous Phoenix 4th

6–10 p.m.

Steele Indian School Park

300 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix 602-534-3378

www.phoenix.gov/fabphx4 Free

Rides, inflatables, youth activities including a zip line, live music, laser lights, fireworks, an antique and classic car show and food, beverage, and craft vendors.

Tuesday, July 4

● 14 Chandler’s All-American Bash

7–9:30 p.m.

Dr. A.J. Chandler Park

178 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler 480-782-2000

www.chandleraz.gov/explore/special-events/chandlersall-american-bash Free

Yard games, balloon art, food vendors, a pyrotechnic show (in lieu of fireworks) and live music by Turn It Up!

Chandler All-American Bash

All-American Festival at Peoria Sports Complex

Hometown 4th at Schnepf Farms

Fast Track to a New Career in Semiconductor Manufacturing

TSMC Partners With Maricopa Community Colleges to Prepare Students for Hire

BY KAREN GOVEIA editor@valleyvibenews.com

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is bringing thousands of jobs to Phoenix with its new chip facility under construction in North Phoenix. And, with a new fast-track program designed through a partnership with Maricopa Community Colleges, a path to a new career in the semiconductor industry is even more within reach.

Students work to develop the skills needed for mechanical assembly in the semiconductor industry in Maricopa Community College's Semiconductor Quick Start Course. Completion of the 40-hour program guarantees an interview with TSMC's plant in North Phoenix for a manufacturing technician role.

With Maricopa County emerging as a semiconductor hub with Intel in the East Valley and TSMC in the North Valley, industry leaders saw the partnership as an opportunity to positively impact the growing industry’s footprint in Arizona.

In as little as two weeks and 40 total hours, students enrolled in the Semiconductor Quick Start training program can become equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to fulfill manufacturing technician positions within the semiconductor industry.

The program teaches foundational skills including performing industrial electrical, reading schematics, identifying and using hand tools, following safety protocols for clean

rooms and Personal Protective Equipment, and using vacuum systems. Students will also learn semiconductor manufacturing concepts and processes, Model Based Problem Solving and how to apply it, as well as lean manufacturing, Paula Livingston, Interim Vice President Academic Affairs at Estrella Mountain Community College, told Valley Vibe.

“These critical skills, knowledge, and abilities were identified through our collaboration with TSMC to prepare students for jobs like manufacturing technician and other positions that are responsible for helping to monitor wafer manufacturing processes, execute process analysis, and create collaborative solutions,” Livingston said.

The program is offered in both the fall and spring semesters at Estrella Mountain Community College, Chandler-Gilbert Community College and Mesa Community College.

Upon completion of the course, students earn the nationally recognized NIMS Semiconductor Certification, along with a guaranteed interview for a manufacturing technician position at TSMC.

“Having TSMC guarantee interviews is a critical indicator of their support for this program and the experience students are getting,” Livingston said.

“Our partnership with the Maricopa Community Colleges enables us to create a sustainable pipeline that serves our industry’s short and long-

term technician needs,” said TSMC’s Head of Human Resources, Scott Holman.

Holman said with the recent announcement of a second phase plant expansion in Arizona, TSMC anticipates the company’s operations to be supported by more than 4,000 employees. “With that, we expect as

(Continued on page 19)

“Having TSMC guarantee interviews is a critical indicator of their support for this program and the experience students are getting.”

Paula Livingston – Interim VP Academic Affairs, Estrella Valley Community College

TSMC's primary office building, referred to as the “Gown Building,” serves as the gateway to its fabrication plant. Employees who work inside the fab must suit up in the appropriate gowns and personal protective equipment before entering the plant. Between its two fabrication plants, TSMC anticipates the company’s operations to be supported by more than 4,000 employees.

Devin Arakaki Hyrum Baker Jaxson Barry Gwynne Chapin Christian Estephan Michail Fudaley Remi Geiser

Jayda Grant Naomi Griego Paul Haley Heba Hamieh Cali Hopf Dylan Hulbert Kaiden Johnson

Matther Joseph Alexander Kleckner Jasmine Mattes Dylan Minton Braeden Murphy Taylor Neal Tyler Nettles

Alec Nieves Gavilanes Carson Pineyro Avery Rodrigue Talya Roloff Enrico Roque Morgan Sima Alyssa Smith

James Trevolt Haley Vanderhill Arhaan Warsi Makenzie Wingert Lucas Wright Savannah Wright Makayla Yancey

(Continued from page 17)

we ramp up operations for both of our fabs, there are still many technicians to be hired,” he told Valley Vibe.

The program was first launched in July 2022, and several graduates from the program have been hired or are in the interview process with TSMC, Holman said.

Phoenix native Rylee Pruitt is one the first graduates of the Quick Start Program at Estrella Mountain Community College to land a job at TSMC as a manufacturing technician. Pruitt, who formerly served in the Air Force Reserves, said while the semiconductor industry was unfamiliar to her, she was drawn to the culture and values that TSMC represents.

“I can see myself building a career there,” said Pruitt, who completed the course in summer of 2022 and has been with TSMC since September 2022.

While TSMC did not specify the pay range, according to Maricopa County Colleges website, starting pay for an entrylevel technician role is $20–$25 per hour. As of this writing, TSMC’s job postings on its website showed at least a dozen open manufacturing technician positions at its Phoenix plant.

Looking forward, Livingston said Maricopa Colleges plans to expand the partnership with TSMC and others in the semiconductor

manufacturing industry to ensure pathways for students to move from entry-level positions to higher positions.

A wait list has formed for Fall 2023 classes. To learn more about the program and course schedule, visit https://info.maricopacorporate. com/semiconductor

Estrella Mountain Community College's first graduating class from the Quick Start Program offered through a partnership with TSMC and Maricopa Community Colleges.

GET READY FOR BACK TO SCHOOL!

First Day of School

All DVUSD Schools

Monday, July 31

Ridgeline Kindergarten

Monday, July 31

Caurus Academy

Tuesday, Aug. 1

Jefferson Preparatory/Adams

Traditional Academy

Wednesday, Aug. 2

Ridgeline Academy

Wednesday, Aug. 2

Stepping Stones Academy

Wednesday, Aug. 2

All PVUSD Schools

Thursday, Aug. 3

Great Hearts Anthem

Tuesday, Aug. 8

North Valley Christian Academy

Wednesday, Aug. 9

Stepping Stones Academy College

Prep High School

Monday, Aug. 14

Meet the Teacher

Adams Traditional Academy

Wednesday, July 26, Time TBD

2323 W. Parkside Lane, Phoenix 602-938-5517, www.atachoice.org

For all grade levels.

Adams Traditional Beginnings

Thursday, July 27, Time TBD

2323 W. Parkside Lane, Phoenix 602-938-551, www.atbchoice.org

For incoming preschoolers.

Boulder Creek High School

Thursday, Aug. 7, 6–8 p.m.

40404 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem 623-445-8600, www.dvusd.org/bchs

For parents of all grades.

Canyon Springs STEM Academy

TBD

42901 N. 45th Ave., Phoenix 623-376-5200, www.dvusd.org/ canyonsprings

Check website or call for dates, times.

Caurus Academy (K-5)

Thursday, July 27, Time TBD

41900 N. 42nd Ave., Phoenix 623-551-5083, www.caurusacademy.org

Back-to-school bash. Check website or call for times.

Caurus Academy (6-12)

Friday, July 28, Time TBD

44111 N. 43rd Ave., Phoenix 623-466-8187, www.caurusacademy.org

Back-to-school bash. Check website or call for times.

Desert Mountain School

Thursday, July 27, 5:30–6:30 p.m

35959 7th Ave., Desert Hills 623-445-3500, www.dvusd.org/ desertmountain

Twilight tours for all grade levels.

Diamond Canyon School TBD

40004 N. Liberty Bell Way, Anthem 623-445-8000, www.dvusd.org/ diamondcanyon

Check website or call for dates, times.

Esperanza Elementary School

Thursday, July 27, 5–6:30 p.m.

251 W. Mohawk Lane, Phoenix 623-445-3700, www.dvusd.org/Page/29

Ice cream social and meet the teachers.

Gavilan Peak School

Friday, July 28, 4–6 p.m. 2701 W. Memorial Drive, Anthem 623-445-7400

www.dvusd.org/gavilanpeak

For all grades.

Great Hearts Anthem

3950 W. Arroyo Norte Dr., Phoenix 623-465-4776

www.anthem.greatheartsamerica.org

Thursday, Aug. 3

For grades K–5. Check the website or call for times.

Saturday, Aug. 5

For grades 6-12. Check the website or call for times.

Saturday, Aug. 7

For kindergarteners. Check the website or call for times.

Inspiration Mountain School

Thursday, July 27, Time TBD

5757 W. Inspiration Mountain Pkwy Phoenix 623-376-5400

www.dvusd.org/InspirationMountain

For all grades.

Jefferson Preparatory High School

Friday, July 28, Time TBD 2323 W. Parkside Lane, Phoenix 602-595-2990, www.jphschoice.org

For all highschoolers.

New River Elementary School

Thursday, July 27, 4:30–5:30 p.m.

48827 N. Black Canyon Fwy., New River 623-376-3500, www.dvusd.org/newriver

Meet the teachers for all grades.

COMPILED BY CAITLIN COULTER events@valleyvibenews.com

A handy guide of important back-to-school events, times and dates.

Norterra Canyon School

Thursday, July 27, 4:30–6 p.m.

Norterra Canyon School

2200 W. Maya Way, Phoenix 623-445-8200, www.dvusd.org/Page/271

For all grades.

North Valley Christian Academy

Monday, Aug. 7, 4:30 p.m.

33655 N. 27th Drive, Phoenix 623-551-3454, www.northvalleyca.org

For all grades.

Ridgeline Academy (K–6)

Monday, July 31, 5–7 p.m.

33625 N. North Valley Pkwy., Phoenix 623-223-1335

www.ridgelineacademy.org

Drop off supplies, sign up for clubs, purchase uniforms and meet teachers.

Ridgeline Academy (7–12)

Tuesday, Aug. 1, 4–7 p.m.

39808 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem 623-289-7911, www.ridgelineacademy.org

Pick up supplies, receive locker assignments, learn more about extracurricular activities and meet teachers.

Sonoran Foothills School

Thursday, July 27, 4:30–5:30 p.m.

32150 N. North Foothills Drive, Phoenix 623-445-8400

www.dvusd.org/Page/32498

Last names beginning with A–L meet at 4:30 p.m. and M–Z at 5 p.m.

Stetson Hills School

Thursday, July 27, 4:30–6 p.m.

25475 N. Stetson Hills Loop, Phoenix 623-445-5300, www.dvusd.org/stetsonhills

For all grades. Class lists posted in multipurpose room.

Sunset Ridge School

Thursday, July 27, 4:30–5:30 p.m.

35707 N. 33rd Lane, Phoenix 623-445-7800, www.dvusd.org/Domain/32

For all grades.

Union Park School

Thursday, July 27, 4:30–6 p.m.

25700 N. 21st Ave., Phoenix 623-445-5800, www.dvusd.org/up

For all grades.

Orientations

BCHS Freshmen Cat Camp

Monday, July 24, 8:30 a.m.–noon

Boulder Creek High School

40404 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem 623-445-8600

www.dvusd.org/bchs

Incoming freshmen learn how to be a Boulder Creek jaguar and get familiar with the campus/schedule.

BGHS Family Orientation

Friday, July 21, 8–10 a.m.

Barry Goldwater High School

2820 W. Rose Garden Lane, Phoenix 623-445-3000

www.dvusd.org/bghs

Incoming freshmen, new students from any grade and their families learn how to get involved in the school community, pick up their materials, receive a personal campus tour and learn information regarding lunch, transportation and school activities. Last names beginning with A–L check in at 8 a.m. and M–Z at 9 a.m.

BGHS Freshman Camp

Monday, July 24, 8–11 a.m. Barry Goldwater High School

2820 W. Rose Garden Lane, Phoenix

623-445-3000, www.dvusd.org/bghs

Incoming freshmen meet their peers, hear from upperclassmen and take a campus tour. Students only.

Sandra Day O’Connor Freshman Camp

Wednesday, July 26, 7:45–11 a.m.

Sandra Day O’Connor High School

25250 N. 35th Ave., Phoenix 623-445-7100, www.dvusd.org/sdohs

Incoming freshmen take an in-depth campus tour in small groups to feel comfortable and prepared for their first day of high school.

NVCA New Family Orientation Night

Wednesday, Aug. 2, 6:30 p.m.

North Valley Christian Academy 33655 N. 27th Drive, Phoenix 623-551-3454, www.northvalleyca.org

For incoming students new to the school and their families to become familiar with the school campus, routine and staff.

Great Hearts Anthem: New Student Orientation

Saturday, Aug. 7

Great Hearts Anthem 3950 W. Arroyo Norte Dr., Phoenix 623-465-4776, www.anthem. greatheartsamerica.org

For grades 6-12. Check the website or call for times.

Special Events

Ridgeline Uniform Exchange

Monday, July 10, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Ridgeline Academy K-6 Campus

33625 N. North Valley Pkwy., Phoenix 623-223-1335, www.ridgelineacademy.org

All gently used uniform tops and bottoms

will be accepted for donation in the music room.

Stepping Stones

Back-to-School Bash

Thursday, July 27, 4–6 p.m. Stepping Stones Academy 35812 N. Seventh St., Phoenix 623-465-4910

www.steppingstonesacademy.org

A party in the gym for students of all grades and their families.

Self Storage Proposal Stymied by City Advisory Committee

BY VALLEY VIBE STAFF WRITERS info@valleyvibenews.com

Aproposal for a 3,000unit self storage facility bordering the Sonoran Commons neighborhood at the corner of Sonoran Desert Drive and North Valley Parkway, was shot down by the North Gateway Village Committee, an advisory board of the City of Phoenix, at its June meeting.

Neighborhood concerns voiced through letters of opposition sent to the committee and inperson opposing comments from neighbors, were the main drivers in the decision to vote against the project.

The parcel lies within the North Gateway Core is already zoned commercial which would typically allow for this type of project, however it requires a special-use approval by the City of Phoenix.

Representatives for the developer said the parcel, which is currently vacant and sits adjacent to the Circle K gas station, is well suited for a self storage facility, claiming it will produce less traffic than

Representatives at the meeting also presented the Gateway Board with a support letter containing signatures from the eight homeowners that back to the entrance road which leads to Circle K. However, other nearby neighbors attended the meeting voicing opposition stating that other parcels nearby would be better suited for a self-storage facility, due to the area’s development of apartments and multifamily housing and considering the increased traffic at the already busy intersection.

Council Chairwoman Julie Read agreed that self storage is much needed in the area, and while she was the lone vote favoring the project, she did state that she’d like to see a traffic study conducted at the intersection to get a better handle on the situation.

Despite opposition from the committee, the proposal remains slated to be heard by the Phoenix Planning Commission Aug. 3. If approval is granted, it will go before City Council for a final vote.

North Gateway Village PROPOSED SELF STORAGE

VALLEY VIBE GRAPHIC

Source CIty of Phoenix Planning and Development Department & Google Maps

Anthem Veterans Memorial Expansion Set to Begin

BY VALLEY VIBE STAFF WRITERS info@valleyvibenews.com

Twice a year, organized gatherings honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country are held at the Anthem Veterans Memorial monument located just outside Anthem Community Park. Thousands more visitors come to pay their respects in private.

The memorial’s Circle of Honor was constructed with 2,400 custom engraved pavers commemorating the lives of those who served our country. Soon, an expansion will allow for the placement of an additional 3,000 pavers, along with other improvements through an expansion project approved by Anthem Community Council.

The project is being funded by the Anthem Way Foundation, a nonprofit organization, which supports the memorial and its programming. The estimated cost of $172,000 will assist with the paver expansion, as well as adding new lighting, adding two sidewalks to facilitate entrance to the memorial, updating flower beds, redirecting water away from the AVM pavers to provide water/dust relief, moving sponsor pavers to a new area, and installing enhancements to the tops of the pillars, according to Anthem Community Council. The veterans commemorative pavers currently in place will not be touched or moved in any way.

Haydon Corp, builders of the original AVM build, was approved to construct the expansion.

In addition, the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) America 250 Patriots Marker will be permanently placed at

the Anthem Veterans Memorial, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. This will be the first national marker selected for addition to the AVM. The AVM became an Arizona State Historic Landmark in May, 2012. “Honoring the 250th Revolutionary War anniversary at the Anthem Veterans Memorial brings another important historic element to our Veterans memorial and will help generations to come to learn even more about our military history. We thank the local DAR Ocotillo Chapter for donating to cover the marker expense and look forward to proudly displaying it at the AVM,” said Anthem Executive Director Aaron Baker.

Info regarding individual or business tax-deductible donations can be found at www.onlineanthem.com

As of this writing the following donations have been received:

• Rotary Club of Anthem (A $25,000 matching donation)

• Todd Ninneman, REMAX Fine Properties, Anthem $6,000 (Garden Sponsor)

• Estes-Comp Family $5,000 (Sign Sponsor)

• Dave and Marge Newham, North Valley Water Solutions $3,000 (Lighting Sponsor)

• Rain Man Roofing & The Hughes Family $3,000 (Friend of Memorial)

• Rear Admiral William (USN, Retired) and Mrs. Jan Putnam $1,000

• Amy Gilner, Realtor, Realty ONE Group $1,000

• Musical Theatre of Anthem $500

• First American Title $500

• $555 Ceren Family

• $111 Bonnie and Robert Smith

• Knights of Columbus Assembly #3438 Anthem plans to donate all proceeds from their food sales at the July 3, Independence Day celebration at Anthem Community Park.

The Anthem Veteran's Memorial is set undergo construction improvements funded by area nonprofit organizations, local business and community residents. An additional 3,000 pavers will be placed.

North Phoenix Real Estate Market Update

BY VALLEY VIBE STAFF WRITERS info@valleyvibenews.com

In our latest monthly snapshot, we're taking an in-depth look at what’s trending in the real estate market in our local neighborhoods.

As for mortgage rates, Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist said in a recent news release, “As inflation continues to decelerate, economic growth is slowing and the tightening cycle of monetary policy is reaching its apex, which means mortgage rates are expected to decrease later this year and into next.”

From the National Association of Realtors® Mortgage Rates

"Homeownership is a financial windfall for most households, with homeowner wealth soaring 40 times higher than renters. Over the last decade, most owners have earned more than $100,000 in equity, according to research from the National Association of REALTORS®. Homeownership has long been a primary avenue for building generational wealth."

National weekly average rates as of June 15, 2023

15-Year Fixed-Rate

6.10%

30-Year Fixed-Rate

6.69%

SOURCE www.freddiemac.com

– MELISSA DITTMANN TRACEY NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

Hand & Stone Massage & Facial Spa

39504 N. Daisy Mountain Dr., Suite #102 Anthem, AZ 85086 623-551-6602, www.handandstoneanthem.com

Offers massage therapy, facial and hair removal services.

Paradise Medspa & Wellness

2060 W. Whispering Wind Drive, Suite #170 Phoenix, AZ 85085 (602) 786-5079, www.paradisemedspa.com

Full service medical spa offering Laser Skin Care Therapy, AviClear Laser Acne Treatment, Body Contouring, Hormone Therapies and Weight Loss. Convenient North Phoenix location off I-17 & Happy Valley Road. CABINETRY

Ridgeline Academy

K-6 Campus

33625 N. North Valley Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85085 623-223-1335, www.ridgelineacademy.org

Junior High & High School

39808 N Gavilan Peak Parkway 623-289-7911, www.highschool.ridgelineacademy.org

A-Rated Charter School, Competitive Sports Programs, Clubs & Activities. Small Class Sizes. HEALTH

Jim Moore 623-687-6579

EDUCATION

Adams Traditional Academy/ Jefferson Preparatory High School

K-8 Campus 2323 W Parkside Ln, Phoenix, AZ 85027 602-938-5517, www.choiceacademies.org

9-12 Campus & Preschool

2333 W Parkside Ln, Phoenix, AZ 85027 602-938-5517, www.choiceacademies.org

Tuition-free public charter school operated by Choice Academies serving Preschool through grade 12.

Caurus Academy

K-5 Campus 41900 N. 42nd Ave. , Anthem, AZ 85086 623-551-5083, www.caurusacademy.org

Middle/High School Campus

44111 N. 43rd Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85087 623-466-8187, www.caurusacademy.org

Tuition-free public charter school. Small class sizes, 14:1 student to staff ratio in grades K–2. High school honors courses, extracurriculars and varsity athletics.

Great Hearts Anthem

3950 W Arroyo Norte Dr, Anthem, AZ 85086 623-465-4776, https://anthem.greatheartsamerica.org

Tuition-free public charter school operated by Great Hearts Academies serving students in grades K-12.