New Federal HVAC Efficiency Regulations & How They Affect You
A price increase is coming soon for newly manufactured A/C units due to changes in the Department of Energy’s HVAC Efficiency Regulations. New units must have a 15 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating in Arizona. If you’re thinking about installing a new A/C, West Coast Plumbing is offering $250 off any new A/C installs to help offset the cost. Give us a call us to schedule a free estimate!
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We recognize that nobody likes to have air-conditioning/heating or plumbing problems, but when you do, you have a choice. When you choose West Coast Plumbing and Air, you are choosing the company that looks out for its neighbors and one that comes with a 100% money back guarantee.
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HEADS UP
Friday, Nov. 1
‘Disney’s Frozen Jr.’ Auditions
4:30–6 p.m.
Musical Theatre of Anthem 42201 N. 41st Drive, Suite B100, Anthem 623-336-6001, www.musicaltheatreofanthem.org
$325/Tuition cost
Ages 6–18 are welcome to audition for the upcoming production of “Disney’s Frozen Jr.,” based on the 2018 Broadway musical adaptation. See details for preparing online. Callbacks on Saturday, Nov. 2. Performances take place Thursday–Sunday, Dec. 12–15.
COMPILED BY CAITLIN COULTER events@valleyvibenews.com
TUESDAYS, OCT. 1–29
Bingo
5 p.m.
Outlets North Phoenix: Food Court 4250 W. Anthem Way, Phoenix 623-465-9500
www.northphoenixoutlets.com
Free
Try your chance at winning a variety of gift cards with the classic game. Ages 18 and up only.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 2–
SUNDAY, NOV. 3
‘We Ain’t Ever Gonna Break Up’
Various showtimes
The Phoenix Theatre Company
1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix 602-254-2151 www.phoenixtheatre.com
$55–$120
A two–man musical production featuring Saul Hymon and Bart Parfunkel parodying musicals including “Jersey Boys,” “Mamma Mia” and more.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 2–
SUNDAY, NOV. 24
‘Waitress’
Various showtimes
The Phoenix Theatre Company
1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix 602-254-2151
www.phoenixtheatre.com
$55–$120
The tale of an aspiring baker finding herself in life, told through the lyrics of Grammy winner Sara Bareilles.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 2
Sum 41
7 p.m.
Arizona Financial Theatre
400 W. Washington St., Phoenix 602-379-2888, www.ticketmaster.com
$36–$172
Live in concert on the “Tour of the Setting Sum” featuring special guests The Interrupters and Many Eyes.
THURSDAY, OCT. 3
Big Ideas Forum
4:30–6 p.m.
Anthem Civic Building 3701 W. Anthem Way 305-302-7536
www.bigideasforum.info Free
Explore the concept of why we age and the science behind it with a group of fellow big thinkers.
THURSDAYS–SUNDAYS, OCT. 3–27
Arizona State Fair
Various admission times
State Fairgrounds
1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix 602-252-6771, www.azstatefair.com
$15
Thrilling rides, classic carnival games, local art displays, fried fair foods, motorized sports, live music performances, petting zoos, livestock shows, monster trucks and rodeo competitions.
PHOTO BY
MICHELE CELENTANO
See Kellan Fletcher (Tinman), David Cohen (Scarecrow), Annabelle Victor (Dorothy), Caden Pettit (Lion) in MTA’s “Wizard of Oz” Thursday, Oct. 17 through Sunday, Oct. 20.
THURSDAY, OCT. 3
Roars & Pours
5:30–8:30 p.m.
The Phoenix Zoo
455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix 602-286-3800
www.phoenixzoo.org
$13
Ages 21 and up can stroll the trails of the zoo while sipping on craft beer and wine. Plus, animal encounters, happy hour camel rides, yard games, bingo, axe throwing, steinholding contests, yodeling contests and live music.
THURSDAY, OCT. 3
Korn
6:30 p.m.
Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix 602-254-7200
www.ticketmaster.com
$52–$388
Live in concert with special guests Gojira and Spiritbox.
THURSDAY, OCT. 3
Cheap Trick
8 p.m.
Gila River Resorts & Casinos: Wild Horse Pass
5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler
1-800-946-4452
www.ticketmaster.com
$59–$119
Live in concert.
FRIDAY, OCT. 4
Pitbull
8 p.m.
Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix 602-254-7200
www.ticketmaster.com
$72–$406
Live in concert on the “Party After Dark” tour with special guest T-Pain.
FRIDAY, OCT. 4–
SUNDAY, OCT. 6
‘The Planets’ Various showtimes Symphony Hall 75 N. Second St., Phoenix 602-495-1999
www.phoenixsymphony.org
$35–$135
The Phoenix Symphony’s 2024-2025 season opens with this performance featuring projections of stunning celestial images to complement conductor Lina GozalezGranados’ most famous work.
FRIDAY, OCT. 4–
SATURDAY, NOV. 2
‘Million Dollar Quartet’ Various showtimes
Arizona Broadway Theatre 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria 623-776-8400, www.azbroadway.org
$72–$133
The Tony Award nominated musical featuring jam sessions with Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley hits.
$8/Saturday general admission; Free/Ages 12 and under Vendors from all over Arizona present their most special items from rare antiques and vintage furniture to Native American jewelry and rugs, all for sale.
SATURDAY, OCT. 5
Phoenix Children’s 5K & Kids’ Dash
7:30–10:30 a.m.
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick Resort 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale 602-933-4483
https://phoenixchildrens5k.raisely. com/en
$60/Adults; $15/Kids
Walk, run, or donate for the sick and injured kids at Phoenix Children’s Hospital.
SATURDAY, OCT. 5
Anthem Cars & Coffee
8–10 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, OCT. 5–26
Arrowhead
Farmers Market
8–11 a.m.
Arrowhead Towne Center 7780 W. Arrowhead Towne Center Glendale
A special weekend showcase of the energetic sounds of local swing ensembles, featuring fun dance workshops, an instrument scavenger hunt, drum crafts, curator talks and live performances.
SATURDAY, OCT. 5
Tacochella
3–8 p.m.
Limon Urban Kitchen
2750 W. Dove Valley Road Suite 190, Phoenix
623-466-7500 www.limonurbankitchen.com
Free
The ultimate taco party featuring live music by local band The ContraBanditos.
SATURDAY, OCT. 5
25th Annual Mariachi & Folklorico Festival
7 p.m.
Chandler Center for the Arts
250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler 480-782-2680, www.ticketmaster.com
$48–$88
Musical icons from the past 30 years of Mariachi music take the stage along with special dance performances.
SATURDAY, OCT. 5
Wynonna Judd
7:30 p.m.
Arizona Financial Theatre
400 W. Washington St., Phoenix
602-379-2888, www.ticketmaster.com
$31–$179
Live in concert.
SUNDAY, OCT. 6
Imagine Dragons
7 p.m.
Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix
602-254-7200, www.ticketmaster.com
$89–$611
Live in concert on the “Loom” world tour with special guest eaJ.
SUNDAY, OCT. 6
Santigold
8 p.m.
Celebrity Theatre
440 N. 32nd St., Phoenix
602-267-1600, www.ticketmaster.com
$61–$192
Live in concert.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 9
Iron Maiden
7:30 p.m.
Footprint Center
201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix
602-379-7800, www.ticketmaster.com
$54–$154
Live in concert on the “Future Past” world tour with special guest The Hu.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 9
The Fray
8 p.m.
The Van Buren
401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix
480-659-1641, www.ticketmaster.com
$53–$159
Live in concert on “The Fray is Back” tour with special guest Rett Madison.
THURSDAY, OCT. 10–
SUNDAY, OCT. 13
Barrett–Jackson Car Show and Auction
Various admission times Westworld of Scottsdale 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale 480-312-6815
https://scottsdale.barrett-jackson.com
$20–$107
Specialty cars on display and up for auction, plus an exhibitor
Barrett-Jackson car show and auction rolls into Scottsdale Sunday, Oct. 13
marketplace, interactive displays, live music, thrill rides and professional ride–alongs and off–road experiences.
THURSDAY, OCT. 10–SUNDAY, OCT. 13
‘Finding Nemo Kids’ Various showtimes
Desert Foothills Theater: The Holland Center 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale 480-488-1981 www.dftheater.org/nemotickets
$20
A new musical adaptation of the favorite Disney Pixar film performed by local youth actors.
FRIDAY, OCT. 11
Seether
5:30 p.m.
Mesa Amphitheatre
263 N. Center St., Mesa 480-644-2560, www.ticketmaster.com
$120–$158
Live in concert with special guest Skillet.
Wynonna Judd performs country music downtown on Saturday, Oct. 5.
FRIDAY, OCT. 11–SUNDAY, OCT. 13
63rd Annual Greek Festival
3–10 p.m., Friday; 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Saturday; 11 a.m.–6 p.m., Sunday Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Community Center 1973 E. Maryland Ave., Phoenix 602-264-7863
www.phoenixgreekfestival.org
$5/Adults; Free/Children 12 and under Authentic Greek cuisine, live music from a Greek band, dancing by award–winning Greek Folk Dancers, free dance lessons, jewelry, art, grocery items and activities for kids.
FRIDAY, OCT. 11
Artisan Alley
6–10 p.m.
Fountain Park
6751 N. Sunset Blvd., Glendale 623-266-6693, www.westgateaz.com
Free
A dog–friendly outdoor market with local small business vendors for the whole family.
FRIDAY, OCT. 11–SUNDAY, OCT. 13
‘Defying Gravity: The Music of Stephen Schwartz and Friends’ Various showtimes Symphony Hall
75 N. Second St., Phoenix 602-495-1999 www.phoenixsymphony.org
The Phoenix Symphony performs the beloved songs of the Grammy and Oscar winning songwriter known for hits from classic shows “Godspell,” “Pippin” and
FRIDAY, OCT. 11–SUNDAY, OCT. 13
Kevin Hart
Various showtimes
Arizona Financial Theatre
400 W. Washington St., Phoenix 602-379-2888, www.ticketmaster.com
Live stand–up comedy from the “Acting My Age” tour.
SATURDAY, OCT. 12–SUNDAY, OCT. 13
Annual Sedona Arts Festival
9 a.m.–5 p.m.,Saturday; 10 a.m.–4 p.m.,Sunday Sedona Red Rock High School 995 Upper Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona 928-204-9456 www.sedonaartsfestival.org
$15/General admission; Free/Children 12 and under
A diverse lineup of works from over 100 juried artists from all over the country, plus live music, a beer and wine garden, food vendors and raffle prizes.
SATURDAY, OCT. 12
All American Rejects
7 p.m.
Arizona State Fairgrounds: Veterans Memorial Coliseum 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix 602-252-6771, www.ticketmaster.com
Shop from over 60 local vendors selling specialty items such as fresh produce, artisan bread, health and wellness products, homemade salsas, raw honey and arts and crafts. Plus live music and food trucks.
SUNDAY, OCT. 13
Taking Back Sunday
7 p.m.
Mullett Arena
411 S. Packard Drive, Tempe
480-564-3497
www.ticketmaster.com
$51–$61
Live in concert with special guest The Used.
SUNDAY, OCT. 13
Charli XCX
7:30 p.m.
Footprint Center
201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix
602-379-7800, www.ticketmaster.com
$44–$124
Live in concert with special guests Troye Sivan and Skygirl.
SUNDAY, OCT. 13
Dan and Phil
8 p.m.
Celebrity Theatre
440 N. 32nd St., Phoenix
602-267-1600, www.ticketmaster.com
$102–$186
Live comedy from the YouTube personalities.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 16
Meghan Trainor
6:30 p.m.
Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre
2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix 602-254-7200, www.ticketmaster.com
$41–$217
Live in concert on the “Timeless” tour with special guests Paul Russell and Chris Olsen.
THURSDAY, OCT. 17–
SUNDAY, OCT. 20
‘The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition’
Various showtimes
Musical Theatre of Anthem 42201 N. 41st Drive, Suite B100, Anthem 623-336-6001
www.musicaltheatreofanthem.org
$25
Ages 6–16 perform the classic tale of Dorothy and her little dog Toto following the Yellow Brick Road through the Land of Oz, meeting some interesting characters along the way.
THURSDAY, OCT. 17
Jimmy Eat World
8 p.m.
The Van Buren
401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix 480-659-1641, www.ticketmaster.com
$208–$313
Live in concert.
THURSDAY, OCT. 17–
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
‘Golden Girls: The Laugh Continues’ Various showtimes
Herberger Theater Center 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix 602-252-8497
www.herbergertheater.org
$43–$88
The famous sassy senior characters return for an update on their latest shenanigans. Ages 18 and up only.
Hear jazz music for free during The Jazz Festival downtown on Saturday, Oct. 19.
FRIDAY, OCT. 18
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 over 50 professional Arizona artists specializing in ceramics, glass, wood, jewelry, paintings, photography and more.
FRIDAY, OCT. 18–
SUNDAY, OCT. 20
‘Annie’
Various showtimes
Herberger Theater Center 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix 602-252-8497 www.herbergertheater.org
$25–$30
A live musical production of the tale of little orphan Annie in 1930s New York City.
Holland Community Center 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale 480-488-1090 www.desertfoothillsbookfestival.com
Free
Choose from over 300 titles from a variety of genres with chances to meet over 90 local authors, plus giveaways and door prizes.
SATURDAY, OCT. 19
Jazz Festival
11 a.m.–3 p.m. Eastlake Park 1549 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix 602-262-6759 www.phoenix.gov/calendar/ parks/5507
Judas Priest
7:30 p.m.
You tubers Dan and Phil come to Celebrity Theater Sunday, Oct. 13.
Arizona Financial Theatre 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix 602-379-2888, www.ticketmaster.com
$58–$338
Live in concert with special guest Sabaton.
FRIDAY, OCT. 18
Colbie Cailat
8 p.m.
Gila River Resorts & Casinos: Wild Horse Pass
Free
Live jazz music by local artists, plus food and drink vendors.
SATURDAY, OCT. 19–SUNDAY, OCT. 20
Taco Fest
11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Salt River Fields
7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale 480-270-5000 www.tacofestaz.com
$15
2 Recycling Events Happening This Month
1 Saturday, Oct. 19
GO GREEN
8–11 a.m.
Anthem Community Park: Lower Parking Lot 41702 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem 623-742-6050 www.onlineatanthem.com/231/Go-Green Free
The semi-annual opportunity for Anthem residents only to recycle and donate electronics, bulk cardboard, paint, medications, hazardous household items and other sensitive items. See the full list of accepted items and restrictions online. ProShred will also be onsite to shred and dispose of personal documents. Proof of Anthem residency required. Line closes at 10:45 a.m.
Enter off of Deer Valley Road, east of the AMC theater to drop off items for recycling and/or donation, including electronics, non-perishable foods, clothing, books and furniture. See the full list of accepted items online.
A street food festival featuring over 40 of the state’s most passionate taco professionals, plus agave spirit tastings, live music from local musicians and DJs and local arts and crafts vendor shopping.
SATURDAY, OCT. 19
‘It’s a Circus!’
3:30 p.m.
All Saints Lutheran Church 15649 N. Seventh St., Phoenix 602-570-4458, www.pmaz.org
$30/Adults;
$25/Seniors & military; $15/Students; $5/Children 15 and under Dazzling performances by ProMusica Arizona Chorale and Orchestra of famous circus music, including “A Million Dreams” from “The Greatest Showman” and “The Baby Elephant Walk” by Henry Mancini.
SATURDAY, OCT. 19
Nancy Bagley
5–8 p.m.
Limon Urban Kitchen
2750 W. Dove Valley Road Suite 190, Phoenix
623-466-7500
www.limonurbankitchen.com
Free
Live performances of pop, folk, light rock, country and jazz hits from over eight decades.
SATURDAY, OCT. 19
‘A Night in Italy’
7–9 p.m.
North Canyon High School Auditorium
1700 E. Union Hills Dr., Phoenix 623-980-4628 www.northvalleysymphony.org
$10/Adults;
$5/Seniors, military & students; Free/Children 5 and under The North Valley Symphony Orchestra presents a musical journey through Italy with performances of “Pines of Rome” by Respighi, Symphony No. 4, “The Italian,” by Mendelssohn and songs from “The Godfather.”
SATURDAY, OCT. 19
Ice Cube
7:30 p.m.
Footprint Center 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix
602-379-7800
www.ticketmaster.com
$55–$200
Live in concert on the
“Nightmare on Cube Street”. Special guests Bone Thugs-NHarmony, Ying Yang Twins, Zapp, Ginuwine, Baby Bash and Luniz.
SUNDAY, OCT. 20 Wickenburg Walks to Boot Breast Cancer
7–9:30 a.m.
Downtown Wickenburg 165 E. Apache St., Wickenburg 623-341-5977
www.
wickenburgbootsbreastcancer.org
$30/Adults; $20/Cancer survivors; $15/Kids
The 16th annual 1-mile walk through historic downtown Wickenburg to raise funds for mammograms and diagnostics for those who are under or uninsured.
THURSDAY, OCT. 24–
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
‘Disney’s Frozen Jr.’ Audition Prep Workshop
4:30–6 p.m.
Musical Theatre of Anthem 42201 N. 41st Dr., Ste. B100 Anthem 623-336-6001
www.musicaltheatreofanthem.org
$35
Ages 6–18 wishing to participate in the upcoming production of “Disney’s Frozen Jr.” can get a leg up for their audition through cold reads, acting techniques, characterization and more. Auditions take place Nov. 1.
THURSDAY, OCT. 24–SUNDAY, OCT. 27
‘Swan Lake’ Various showtimes Symphony Hall 75 N. Second St., Phoenix 602-381-1096, www.balletaz.org
$35–$169
Ballet Arizona performs the classic romantic tragedy ballet with Tchaikovsky’s dramatic score.
Straight outta South Central Los Angeles to downtown Phoenix, legendary hip-hop rapper Ice Cube performs Saturday, Oct. 19.
Ballet Arizona presents "Swan Lake" Thursday, Oct. 24 through Sunday, Oct. 27 at Symphony Hall.
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
Big Time Rush
7 p.m.
Arizona State Fairgrounds: Veterans Memorial Coliseum 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix 602-252-6771
www.ticketmaster.com
$82–$88
Live in concert.
SATURDAY, OCT. 26–
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
Desert Dog Police
K9 Trials & Public Safety Expo
8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Saturday; 8–3 p.m., Sunday WestWorld of Scottsdale 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale 520-488-7426
www.alecapolicek9.com/k9-trials
$5/One day; $10/Two days; Free/Ages 12 & under The largest Police K9 competition in the country, hosted by Arizona Law Enforcement Canine Association (ALECA). On–field agility obstacles, real–life police scenario simulations, demonstrations from SWAT, aviation teams, interactive displays of public safety vehicles and vendor shopping.
SATURDAY, OCT. 25
Kierland Fine Art & Wine Festival
10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Kierland Commons Main Street 15210 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale 480-348-1577
www.kierlandcommons.com Free admission
A day of shopping, wine tastings, delicious dining, live music from an eclectic mix of performers and a diverse collection of artwork from over 100 talented artists specializing
in sculptures, mixed media, jewelry, photography and more.
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
The Maker’s Hive Market
11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Desert Ridge Marketplace 21002 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix 480-513-7586
www.shopdesertridge.com/event/ market
Free
Sip and stroll through local artisan vendor booths featuring custom clothing, permanent jewelry, handmade candles and more.
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
Bowling for Soup
7:30 p.m.
The Van Buren
401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix 480-659-1641 www.ticketmaster.com
$48–$118 Live in concert.
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
Marc Anthony
8 p.m.
Footprint Center
201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix 602-379-7800 www.ticketmaster.com
$41–$191
Live in concert on the “Historia” tour.
MONDAY, OCT. 28
G–Eazy
8 p.m.
The Van Buren
401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix 480-659-1641, www.ticketmaster.com
$68–$204
Live in concert.
ELECTION DAY » TUESDAY, NOV. 5
DVUSD’S NO-TAX INCREASE BALLOT VOTERS TO DECIDE
BY KAREN GOVEIA editor@valleyvibenews.com
Voters in the Deer Valley Unified School District will have a say on two critical no-tax increase ballot questions in the Nov. 5 election.
If approved, roughly one-third of the funding generated from the district’s special $325-million bond election would provide funding for a new high school and an additional elementary school in the vicinity of the TSMC chip plant, west of I-17, where another master-planned community comparable to the size of Anthem is planned. Two-thirds of the funding generated from a successful bond passage would also fund capital improvements to existing schools in the district. Visit www.dvusd.org/ bond for a detailed list of improvements by school.
The November election marks DVUSD’s second attempt in asking for local support of the bond, along with the renewal of a Maintenance and
Operations (M&O) tax override of a homeowner tax already in place to help the district fund fixed costs and basic needs not fully funded by the state.
DVUSD’s Governing Board agreed to place the questions in the hands of the voters last spring at the request of the district’s Bond/Override Citizen Advisory Committee,
following the unsuccessful passage of the ballot measures last November.
Neither ballot request would result in tax increases, as both requests are a continuation of the district’s current tax rates, said DVUSD School Superintendent Dr. Curtis Finch, during the first in a series of community informational meetings.
Structuring the repayment of its debt enables the district to keep the levy level and take the burden off the taxpayers.
“This has been accomplished by aggressively paying off debt from previous bond sales to allow for the opportunity to seek these new bond funds to meet the growing needs
“It’s a little hard for people to see into the future... TSMC is four times bigger than Intel in the Chandler area and that exact same scenario [of growth] is going to happen here in half of the time. It’s hard to grasp that it’s all progressing as planned. Another Anthem-like community is coming out of the ground, right around the plant.”
DR. CURTIS FINCH - DVUSD School Superintendent
New High School, Elementary School, Safety & Security Updates, Free Full-Day Kindergarten & Special Programs at Stake
BALLOT INITIATIVES
of our District without creating a financial burden to our taxpayers,”
DVUSD Deputy Superintendent of Fiscal Services, Jim Migliorino, told Valley Vibe.
Special Bond Approval Would Fund New Schools, Renovations
The largest wave of residential growth sweeping the North Valley continues in the far North Phoenix area near TSMC, on the east side of I-17, but now the growth is shifting to the west side of I-17 as home developers are snatching up State Trust Land. Lennar Homes already has a presence on the west side of the freeway, and Pulte Homes has an application with the State on 6,000 acres for a future masterplanned community in the Biscuit Flats area, south of Loop 303.
That said, DVUSD has identified the need to build another elementary school and a high school in the vicinity.
“It’s a little hard for people to see into the future… TSMC is four times bigger than Intel in the Chandler area and that exact same scenario [of growth] is going to
happen here in half of the time,” Finch said. “It’s hard to grasp that it’s all progressing as planned. Another Anthem-like community is coming out of the ground, right around the plant,” he added.
Finch pointed out that DVUSD being one of the largest land districts in the state expands all the way to Lake Pleasant.
DVUSD has been actively monitoring the projected student yield from the many multifamily and singlefamily residential projects in the pipeline, particularly in the North Gateway area and the South Biscuit Flats area west of I-17. An estimated 19,000-plus units are projected surrounding the TSMC plant. [See “New Housing Developments in the Pipeline,ˮ page 19.]
DVUSD’s most recent demographer’s report shows projected student enrollment growth east of I-17 is anticipated through fiscal years 20262027. Then, growth will shift to the west side of I-17 through fiscal years 2031-2032.
(Continued on page 18)
Political Action Committee Supports DVUSD Bond and the M&O Override
BY KAREN GOVEIA editor@valleyvibenews.com
Apolitical action committee in DVUSD is working to connect with the community and help voters understand the facts of both the bond and M&O override initiatives.
“Our goal is to empower the community with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions, always prioritizing the needs of our students,” said Katie May Smith, cochair of the Deer Valley Votes 4 Kids committee.
In addition to the many ways DVUSD has stated the district’s students and staff will benefit from a “yes” vote, [See “Voters to Decide No-Tax Increase Ballot Initiatives,” page 16.] Deer Valley Votes 4 Kids pointed out that school safety continues to be a priority of DVUSD parents and guardians identified through numerous surveys.
“The safety updates funded by this bond are crucial for protecting our students and include automatic hallway door locks, security cameras, and improved PA and
fire alarm systems,” May Smith told Valley Vibe.
She added that this bond is about being proactive for the future of DVUSD and its students. “We must prioritize taking care of our students. Together, we can ensure that our schools are safe, equitable, and wellequipped for students,” she said.
How to Get Involved
To highlight the importance of voting, the committee has distributed palm cards and placed signs throughout the district. Volunteers meet Sunday mornings at the Foothills Recreation & Aquatics Center, 5600 W. Union Hills Drive, Glendale for canvassing. All are welcome to attend.
“We need volunteers and sponsors to help us reach our community,” May Smith said. “There are many ways to get involved, and your support is invaluable.”
For more nfo, visit www. deervalleyvotes4kids.org to learn more.
(Continued from page 17)
Schools that continue to exceed capacity due to the growth include Sonoran Foothills, Stetson Hills, Union Park, and at the high school level – Barry Goldwater, and Mountain Ridge.
DVUSD added four permanent classrooms at both Sonoran Foothills and Union Park. Even with those additions, both schools are expected to exceed capacity in the immediate future, along with Stetson Hills.
Bond & Override
Fast Facts
Ballot Mail Date Oct. 9
Last Day to Mail Back Your Ballot Oct. 29
DVUSD's $325-Million Bond
If approved, the bond would fund the following:
» Student Growth (Five-year Plan)
• New K-8 elementary school (Location TBD West of I-17 south of Loop-303)
• New high school (Location TBD West of I-17 south of Loop-303) (Phase 1: classroom buildings, gymnasium and administrative buildings)
• (Future phases would include an auxiliary gym and performing arts building, not funded by this bond.)
Note DVUSD has held a reservation with the State Land Department for a future high school near I-17 and Jomax Road, but with the close proximity of that site to Sandra Day O’Connor High and the shift in the city’s growth plans, the district has stated they would forgo the I-17 and Jomax location in exchange for a usable 60-plus acre parcel south of the 303 Freeway and west of I-17.
» Instructional-Related Needs
• Building Renovations (e.g. HVAC replacement/repairs, roofing, carpet/flooring)
• Technology Updates and Device/Chromebook Replacements
• Furniture, Fixture and Equipment Replacement
• Bus replacements and additions
• Building Improvements (Safety/Security upgrades including additional cameras, locks safety/security, extracurricular improvements)
At the high school level, Barry Goldwater is projected to become the largest of DVUSD’s high schools by 2027.
A Special Bond Election in the amount of $325 million would fund the next elementary and high school, along with safety, security, instructional resources, technology, building renewal, conservation, buses and student growth throughout the district
through the year 2029. This bond is also a continuation of the tax already being assessed from the 2019 Special Bond Authorization. The estimated average cost to homeowners is a continuation of roughly $15.12 per month in property tax on the average assessed value of homes within the district.
The Maintenance & Operations Tax Extension
The other ballot question would renew a Maintenance and Operations (M&O) override, which is a homeowner tax already in place to help the district fund basic needs not fully funded by the state. This override has been in place for over 30 years at DVUSD and comparable school districts in the state. M&O overrides expire every five years and requires the support of the local taxpayers. The last taxpayer 15 percent budget override was approved in 2019 and is set to expire/begin to be phased out after December 2024.
A “yes” vote would approve the continuation of the district’s existing Maintenance and Operations 15 percent budget override. The cost to the average homeowner is a continuation of roughly $21.27 per month in property tax on the average assessed value of homes within the district.
If approved, funds will be used for the following:
• Attract and retain highly qualified teachers and stay competitive with neighboring districts (current override provides 8.5 percent of employee salaries)
• Preserve fine arts, elective courses, gifted programs and athletic programs (art, music, band, and physical education)
• Maintain low class sizes
• Provide counselors and specialists/ support staff
• Provide free full-day kindergarten (free since 2016)
A ‘No’ Vote Means Budget Cuts
Without the local support for a successful passage of an override and the bond initiative, Finch told Valley Vibe students and staff would be directly impacted.
Without an extension to the override, DVUSD will be forced to cut an estimated $11 million per year from its budget over the next three years, (totaling $33 million) in student programming. For more details on the override, visit www.dvusd.org/override.com.
“Arizona is 49th in the nation for per pupil funding, so we have to watch every penny and be very miserly with our dollars to make them stretch, so both bond and override are what we call local support,” Finch said. “If we want our schools to be top shelf and be the envy of the state we need to continue to support them.”
New Housing Developments in the Pipeline
DVUSD is closely monitoring the following new single-family home developments within the booming North Phoenix corridor.
• Aloravita (75th & Jomax) 1,472 units
• Copperleaf (Dove Valley & 20th Ave) 411 units
• Middle Vistas (I-17 & Dixileta) 228 units
• Union Park (21st Ave & Jomax) 977 units
• Verdin (24th Street & Sonoran Desert Pkwy) 1,250 units
• Paseo Heights (9th Ave & Pinnacle Peak) 294 units
• Biscuit Flats/NorthPark (51st Ave, south of 303 Fwy) 19,235 units
Another 5,000 multi-family units (apartment) projects between Happy Valley and Carefree Highway, east of I-17, are at various stages of construction, in addition to another 1,500 potential multi-family units in this region.
Barry Goldwater High School is projected to become the largest of DVUSD’s high schools by 2027.
Middle Vistas (I-17 & Dixileta)
PHOTO COURTESY LENNAR
School Board Candidates Touch on Top Issues
ight candidates are vying for three open seats on the Deer Valley Unified School District Board in the election, Tuesday, Nov. 5. Six newcomers are challenging incumbents Ann Ordway and Kim Fisher.
What about the Capital Bond and M&O Override?
My statement in favor of the bond will be on the ballot statements. The bond includes safety and security measures, technology for every student, facility maintenance and two new schools to alleviate the crowding created by 19,000 new housing units exploding in the district. The override helps maintain smaller class sizes, full-day kindergarten, 8% of teacher salaries, and ensures support for athletics, fine arts and so much more. Most importantly, it keeps our district moving forward.
What are the biggest issues facing the district? How will you address them?
There are five key issues: 1. Pass the bond and override 2. Retaining educators and staff. Teachers and staff must be shown respect and salaries must reflect the importance of their profession. 3. Safety. Gun violence is an epidemic in this country. And, yes, security guards and special door locks will help. But we should also introduce the Be Smart program for common sense gun safety to the district. 4. 19,000 new homes entering the district. We must be prepared to add teachers, classrooms and educational programs to deal with a student population explosion over the next few years! 5. Collaboration. The future of public schools will be determined by students, teachers, staff, parents and the community. We must effectively communicate with each other.
I wish the district respected the community enough to only seek the override this year and would seek the bond when they are more able to show both good stewardship and genuine need. The community was clear last year that they lost faith in the district's ability to appropriately manage funds. I don’t believe using the scare tactic of cutting salaries is also the best way to promote approving the override. Our community is smart and they do not need to be bullied into supporting the district. Explain to the community how state equalization funding works and what additional funds are available to the surrounding districts that are not available to us and why. Explain to the community how difficult not having the override will be. Then humbly request the needed support of funding the override and assure our community that no matter what our focus will remain on doing what is best for the kids but it could have an impact in the classroom if we cannot adjust in other areas.
Our district is doing a great job on many things, but we have issues in many areas. How we address them is the biggest issue right now. The result of how we address issues is the loss of enrollment in a hyper-growth environment and an undetermined turnover rate in a supposed top employer. Some parents are no longer willing to work toward improving DVUSD because they feel they are not respected and have no voice. Longtime employees have given up, retired or are moving on because they say they have lost their voice in the district. Anyone not on board with whatever administration wants is automatically a villain in the DVUSD story. We have had community members trespassed or ostracized for speaking up, and even board members have faced the wrath. My hope is that three board members who are willing to work together and stand in the gap are elected. Then the collaborative work that used to be can return. That board can work on reengaging the community as a whole and repair the bridges that have been damaged.
At this time, I do not see another option away from approving the M&O override. For a very long time it has been tied to bridging the gap in staff pay, which has been decreased over the years by budget and tax cuts from public education. I fully support the override to ensure our employees are able to provide for their families in this time of great need. I would like to see some initiative from the district in future years to formulate a plan to move the gap pay from the override and more into the standard budget. This would eliminate the stress that every few years an employee's pay could vanish. The bond however, I disagree on the timing. While the need for capital to expand our district will surely be needed in the future, I do believe we could have delayed till the next election cycle. The voters spoke at the last attempt in Nov. 2023, but the district presented the same proposal with no changes and is expecting a different outcome. A delay, or possibly a decreased amount would have been a more likely scenario. But unfortunately the community is weary with costs so high. I'd hate to see the fate of the bond drag down the override.
Two of the main issues I keep coming across are student and campus safety, along with supplies for the classrooms. As I have already begun to investigate areas within the district finances, I have noticed areas where we might utilize unused capital to increase the speed in which we are updating security systems, alarms, and intercoms to insure we have all schools 100% prepared for any emergency. Some of this capital could possibly be used towards increasing each school's discretionary funds, which provides teachers with classroom supplies. None of which would burden the taxpayers as we already have the resources available, if the Board so chooses.
What qualifies you as the best candidate for the school board?
Candidate
My background includes being an educator, business owner and marketing research analyst. I have a California lifetime teaching credential and taught at Glendale Community College. Conducting marketing research for clients like Coca Cola and FedEx led me to believe in facts, civility and safety. I also served on the California Attorney General’s task force on consumer affairs and the Las Vegas Mayor’s Real Estate task force. As managing director at Las Vegas Review-Journal, I learned the value of collaboration, which is vital for school boards. My goals are: To support DVUSD by providing extraordinary educational opportunities to every learner. To attract and retain teachers and staff with support and respect. To support every aspect of student safety. And to use facts to improve areas that require solutions. A good education is critical to living a good life. Crucial to student success is teacher support and livelihood. School boards are not about politics. Their role is to identify and meet the needs of students, teachers, staff and families. The best method of achieving that goal is working together.
Steve Bottfeld
I hold a bachelor’s in human resources, a master’s in accounting/finance management, and a specialized teaching cert for K-12 CTE business/marketing.
Six of my 30 years in administration/management were school-district related.
Kim Fisher- Incumbent
My belief is the governing board is to represent the community in the district.
Kids are the responsibility of the parents and parents should be driving what we are doing in the district. The board should provide oversight of what is brought to your children. We should ensure all parents are informed and involved, not just the parents who agree with administration. We should provide oversight that the policies we adopt are being followed and laws are being followed. We should ensure teachers and staff have what they need to provide a good education.
Being willing and able to do the job even when it gets difficult is what makes me the best. When the board forgets they represent the public in the district, the public loses their voice and representation.
I have over a decade of real world experience with a Top 100 company involving finances and auditing. I was born and raised in Deer Valley and currently raising 3 children here as well, all enrolled in DVUSD. This provides me with a current and direct line of awareness to our elementary and high schools. Throughout my own educational journeys with my children, I have experienced both the gifted programs and the need for reading and math tutoring offered by the district. My direction is clear; audit school safety readiness, resources and training; to progress and maintain focus on increasing academic achievements; teacher retention and hiring; and being as fiscally responsible as possible.
Tiffany Hawkins
The 2024 Override is simply reauthorizing funds that are currently in place to fund programs for students that make our district extraordinary. Full-day kindergarten, support services for special needs students, specialized programs for students who need out of the box educational opportunities. I support these programs. My wish is that the district would have lowered the ask of the bond that did not pass in 2023. However, what they did better this round is delineate each school in the five HS regions and listed the projects that will be funded with bond money. That is accountability I can support.
The growth of TSMC and the surrounding businesses that bring employees looking for housing will be a big issue for the district. Building schools fast enough to prevent overcrowding at existing schools is always an issue, but when we have new homes being built at the pace we do now, it compounds the difficulty. Returning to pre-COVID student achievement levels is also an issue. Students who were affected by the interruption to their education need more time and attention to catch up. Recruiting, training, and retaining great teachers is another issue. DVUSD must be competitive with compensation and benefits.
I retired from DVUSD in 2020 after 35 years in education; 14 years at schools for the Deaf and then 21 years in district schools as a teacher librarian (2019 Arizona School Librarian of the year.) The last 18 years I spent in DVUSD. For six years, I supervised the district Library Clerks, working with 34 of the schools, then I was the district lead librarian for 5 years. I am trilingual in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language. I have been a part-time then full-time Realtor since 2010. My husband and I raised four sons who are DVUSD success stories.
Holehan- Kopas
Melody
The need for both has to do with a void in state funding. If the override is not reauthorized, the district would not be able to maintain the current level of programs and services and would have to make reductions. Without bond funding, many major projects that focus on school safety, security, and growth cannot be started, often putting school districts years behind. If both pass, our staff and students will not be negatively affected. We will be able to continue our responsible, conservative financial practices. We prioritize what is closest to the classroom and repair, replace, rebuild and build as necessary. When programs are cut, opportunities for students diminish, which leads to staff losing their jobs. If we believe our children deserve the best we have to offer, if we believe our employees deserve the best, passing both the override and bond is an easy decision.
One of the biggest issues would be the false narratives, misleading “facts” and outright attacks on our staff and students. I will continue to stay focused on the reality of our school district. Our staff and students provide and receive exceptional learning experiences. Each day there are thousands of examples of laser focused, impactful learning opportunities. Providing our community with everyday examples of what our students and staff are accomplishing is something that is important. Communicating in various ways how effective and efficient we are with our finite fiscal resources, how we utilize our human resources. We will continue to listen to all stakeholders utilizing their knowledge, observations and experiences to continually improve.
I firmly believe my 16 year tenure is an important asset. Making decisions collaboratively for 16 years provides me with excellent working relationships amongst the employee groups, community members, business partners and student organizations. I lead by example and believe all that are in the DVUSD are integral to the success of our students.
I believe a continuation of an override, which funds M & O salaries, maintains class sizes, full-day kindergarten, specialized student programs, support for extracurricular activities, and a portion of schools and department budgets is needed. Voters may be more willing to pass the override, and/or the bond, if they were separated. I have concerns about a bond for $325,000,000, with a total cost of $452,010,500, to be repaid through a levy on property taxes to fund new construction and furniture, fixtures and equipment, and conservation and energy efficiency projects, among other things. Hopefully students and teachers get needed funding.
Retaining current families and attracting new families to our district schools, rather than them looking to charter or private schools, is a current concern in our district. I believe we need to inform families about the great qualities and options within our district, such as the Traditional Academy at Bellair with back-to-basics and smaller class sizes; the culinary learning options at Barry Goldwater, the gifted continuum available from pre-K to 8 and beyond, STEM and STEAM campuses, as well as online options for learning via our Aspire Learning Center. There is parental choice in the Deer Valley Unified School District.
I am a DVUSD alum and parent who has lived in the district for over 50 years. I have been an educator for almost 25 years and hold a doctorate in organizational leadership. I have been involved in our community in many capacities: PTSA, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Sunday school, block watch captain, blood drive coordinator, and a lifelong blood donor. I am genuinely a servant leader who cares about kids and the community. Top priorities: Back-to-basics education with rigorous academics. Smaller class sizes with fully supported teachers. Responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
Capital Bond and M&O overrides have become a fixture in most districts whether caused by growth or age of facilities. I believe all districts and taxpayers should make their voices heard at our State Legislature regarding school funding. Arizona is second to last in school funding, and they have a fiscal surplus. It is time to change the status quo. In the meantime, I believe we need to vote for the bond as the growth rate and the need for new schools is here. As a board member I would re-evaluate large expenditures to enable full day kindergarten and at least inflation balancing raises for staff to reduce the percentage of requested M&O override.
The biggest issues facing the district are safety and security, staffing, student achievement, and fiscal and curricular responsibility and transparency. Expenses always appear to outweigh resources as our seemingly infinite district boundaries preclude constant growth and challenging decisions. As a board member I will share in the management of these issues. Open communication and strong relationships go a long way in muddling through the challenges a district of our size faces. I will be a representative of the staff, students and taxpayers in all of my input and votes.
I believe I am the best candidate for the job because I spent 34 years working with the students, staff and families of the Deer Valley District. I taught, I coached, I mentored student teachers, I was a department chair, I sponsored clubs. I loved learning the ins and outs of a large high school’s operations. I finished my career with DVUSD as an assistant principal. As an AP I grew in depth of knowledge regarding district safety, policies and operations.
I fully endorse both the bond and the override ballot issues. They are critical to maintaining the excellent quality of education Deer Valley provides while also updating our older schools' infrastructure, providing critical technology to students, and allowing the district to plan for the explosive growth in our northern communities. These two ballot issues will not increase our property taxes.
Deer Valley is a huge district, and such a large population automatically brings a tremendous diversity in the needs of its students, staff and communities. Finding ways to address all of those needs reasonably and with equity requires leaders to assess and prioritize needs and build consensus around the most reasonable means to meet them. None of this happens without adequate funding, and the state of Arizona must change how poorly our public schools are funded.
I have been a part of public schools for over 40 years as a teacher, an administrator, an organizational evaluator, and a parent. I have taught multiple classes and multiple grade levels at Greenway High School in Phoenix, coached sports, sponsored lots of student clubs, and worked on or led multiple school, district, and state education committees. These experiences have consistently shown me the incredible value of everything a public school brings to its communities as well as the importance of working collaboratively to solve difficult problems.
Ann Ordway- Incumbent
Terri Roberts
Karen Pack
Julie Stockwell
PROP 479 TO FUND TRANSPORTATION/LOOP 303 & I-17 IMPROVEMENTS
BY VALLEY VIBE STAFF WRITERS
info@valleyvibenews.com
Proposition 479 will be on the ballot for Maricopa County voters in the November general election, asking for the approval of the continuation of an existing, dedicated half-cent sales tax in Maricopa County to fund transportation.
Funding from successful passage of Prop 479 will go toward various transportation improvement projects,
including Loop 303 widening to three lanes from Lake Pleasant Parkway to I-17 along with a new interchange at I-17 to allow for direct access to the freeway. See [“ADOT Lays Out Plan for Loop 303 Improvements,” Valley Vibe, May 2024]. For a full list of projects included under Prop 479 within the county’s Regional Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Investment Plan, visit www.azmag.gov/ prop479.
COMPILED BY CAITLIN COULTER events@valleyvibenews.com
TUESDAY, OCT. 1–
THURSDAY, OCT. 31
Mother Nature’s Farm Pumpkin Patch
9 a.m.–9 p.m.
Mother Nature’s Farm 1663 E. Baseline Road, Gilbert 480-892-5874 www.mothernaturesfarm.com
$15
A stocked full pumpkin patch with plenty of shopping options for fall accessories, plus a straw bale maze, farm animals, pedal cars, bull riding, outdoor games, hayrides and more.
TUESDAY, OCT. 1–
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
Pumpkin Fest & Corn Maze
Various admission times Mortimer Farms
12907 E. State Route 169, Dewey 928-830-1116
www.mortimerfarmsaz.com
$24.50
Farm–inspired rides and game shows, tractor parades, apple cider press demos, roper shows, pig races, comedy jugglers, a corn maze, hayrides, a pumpkin patch and a Friday night dance barn.
TUESDAY, OCT. 2–
THURSDAY, OCT. 31
Vertuccio Farms
Fall Festival
Various admission times Vertuccio Farms
4011 S. Power Road, Mesa 480-882-1482 www.vertucciofarms.com
$16
New ropes course challenge and enjoy the 5–acre corn maze, pig race ride, pumpkin barn, petting zoo, mega slide, carnival games, playground and mini golf.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 2–
THURSDAY, OCT. 31
Pumpkin Days & Corn Maze
Various admission times Tolmachoff Farms 5726 N. 75th Ave., Glendale 602-299-3276
swww.tolmachoff-farms.com
$17
A great, big pumpkin patch, 6 acres of a corn maze with a new theme, a mini corn maze for young ones and a haunted corn maze for the adventurous. Plus, a petting zoo, train rides, hay pyramids, corn box, pedal carts, jumping pillow and more.
THURSDAY, OCT. 3–
THURSDAY, OCT. 31
Schnepf Farms Pumpkin & Chili Party
Various admission times Schnepf Farms
24810 S. Rittenhouse Rd, Queen Creek 490-987-3100
www.pumpkinandchiliparty.com
$25.95/Person; Free/Ages 2 and under Sunflower fields, a 4–acre corn maze, zip lines, hay rides, jumping pillow, jungle gyms, mini golf, a tractor play yard, giant yard games, face painting, pig races, campfires and amusement rides.
FRIDAY, OCT. 4–
THURSDAY, OCT. 31
MacDonald’s Ranch Pumpkin Patch
Various admission times MacDonald Ranch 26540 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale 480-585-0239
www.macdonaldsranch.com
$15
Explore the ranch by scavenger hunt, play giant lawn games, pan for gold, race in a pedal car, make way through the hay-bale maze, pet some farm animals, ride a mechanical bull and take home a pumpkin straight from the patch.
SATURDAY, OCT. 5 Flagstaff Oktoberfest
10 a.m.–9 p.m.
Wheeler Park
211 W. Aspen Ave., Flagstaff 928-606-7600
www.flagstaffoktoberfest.com
$10/General admission; Free/Ages 12 and under
The 15th annual celebration of bratwurst, pretzels, live music and plenty of beer to kick off the autumn season. This year features fun polka bands, brateating contests, stein-holding competitions, free root beer floats for kids, arts and crafts vendors, yard games and a frozen T–shirt contest.
FRIDAY, OCT. 11SUNDAY, OCT. 13
2024 Oktoberfest
Various admission times
Tempe Town Lake 80 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe 480-350-8625 www.fourpeaksoktoberfest.com $20/Ages 21 and up; Free/Ages 20 and under Tempe’s annual tradition returns with a keg-tapping opening ceremony, carnival rides and games, eating contests, weiner dog races, stand–up comedy performances, arts and crafts, stein-holding competitions, live musical performances, lots of German food and beer from Four Peaks Brewing.
SATURDAY, OCT. 12–SUNDAY, OCT. 13
Backyard Bonanza: A Phoenix Zoo Fall Festival
9 a.m.–1 p.m.
The Phoenix Zoo 455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix 602-286-3800, www.phoenixzoo.org
$37.95–$39.95/Ages 14 and up; $27.95–$29.95/Ages 3–13
The Phoenix Zoo celebrates the beginning of the fall season with candy corn races, lasso toss workshops, arts and crafts stations, a migratory bird game,
Flagstaff Oktoberfest
Tolmachoff Farms
free face painting, sack races, worm releases in the zoo garden, farm animal demonstrations and zoo keeper chats.
The Holland Community Center 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale 480-488-1090 www.hollandcenter.org
Free
Festive presentation of intricate, hand–blown glass pumpkins by artist Greg Tomb, all available for purchase to benefit the community center.
SATURDAY, OCT. 26–
SUNDAY, OCT. 27 Autumnfest
Noon–6 p.m.
Anthem Community Park 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem 623-742-6050 www.onlineatanthem.com/228/ Autumnfest
Free admission; $25–$35/Carnival ride wristbands
Anthem’s annual fall festival returns for a head start on holiday shopping from the variety of fine arts, crafts, culinary items, hand–made goods and more offered by a range of vendors from across the region. Plus, free hayrides, a pumpkin patch (additional charge), free pumpkin decorating kits, a free petting zoo (noon–4 p.m. only on both days), Rotary beer garden, kid’s zones (additional charge), a trunk-or-treat special by the Church of Jesus Christ Latter–Day Saints (Saturday only 5–6 p.m.), plenty of food vendors and live music by The Rave and Liars Who Lie.
Anthem Autumnfest
A 5K walk/run in full Halloween costume, decorated by StartLine Racing.
FRIDAY, OCT. 25–SUNDAY, OCT. 27
Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival
Halloween Happenings
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 2–
THURSDAY, OCT. 31
‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’
Various showtimes
Celebrity Theatre
440 N. 32nd St., Phoenix
602-267-1600
www.ticketmaster.com
$44–$140
The original unedited horror musical comedy movie with a live shadow cast and audience participation. Plus, memorabilia display, costume contests and more.
FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS, OCT. 26 & THURSDAY, OCT. 31
AZ’s Field of Screams
7–11 p.m.
Tolmachoff Farms
5726 N. 75th Ave., Glendale 602-299-3276
www.tolmachoff-farms.com
$25
A twisted corn maze full of spine–chilling moments and unexpected events for ages 13 and up.
FRIDAY, OCT. 4–
THURSDAY, OCT. 31 Scarizona
6–11 p.m.
Scarizona Scaregrounds 1091 N. Alma School Road, Mesa 480-444-2590, www.scarizona.com
$24.95
A premiere haunted house event recommended for ages 12 and up, featuring frightening themes including “Mayhem in the Madness” and “Startled Darkness.”
FRIDAY, OCT. 11
Creatures of the Night: Super
Spooky Edition
6:30–9 p.m. Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area
44000 N. Spur Cross Road, Cave Creek
602-506-2930
www.maricopacountyparks.net
$3/Park entrance fee
An adventure through the park at night led by the park ranger with UV lights to seek out the spookiest desert creatures: scorpions, spiders, snakes, bats, centipedes, toads, insects and more. Registration required.
THURSDAY, OCT. 17 Creepy Candy Crawl
5:30–7:30 p.m.
Desert Ridge Marketplace 21002 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix 480-513-7586
www.shopdesertridge.com/event/creepy Free
The
trick-ortreating throughout the shops, plus a pumpkin patch, a free digital spooky photo, live entertainment by Funergy, games, giveaways and costume contests.
SATURDAY, OCT. 19–SUNDAY, OCT. 20
Scottsdale Sparkle
Halloween
10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Arizona Boardwalk 9500 W. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale 480-951-2100, www.azboardwalk.com Free
Costume contests for kids, free candy, glitter tattoos, face painting, sand art and shopping from over 50 local vendors featuring arts, crafts and gifts.
SATURDAY, OCT. 19
Paradise Valley Community Center
Trunk or Treat
6–8:30 p.m. Paradise Valley Community Center
17402 N. 40th St., Phoenix 602-495-3785
www.phoenix.gov/calendar/parks/5512 Free
Dress up in costume for free trunk–or–treating hosted by Phoenix Parks and Recreation.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 23
Ghouls & Fools
Comedy Show
6:30–8:30 p.m.
Mic Drop Mania
51 E. Boston St., Chandler
480-586-0178
www.micdropmania.com/shows/279951
$20
An evening comedy show featuring classic Halloween creatures telling their own eccentric tales. Costumes encouraged. Ages 18 and up only.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 23–
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
Spooky Safari
5:30–8:30 p.m.
The Phoenix Zoo
455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix 602-286-3800, www.phoenixzoo.org
$18
Trick–or–treat through the zoo, stopping for character meet and greets and special themed candy stations throughout the park.
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
Anthem Trunk–n–Treat
5–8 p.m.
Palmcroft Church Anthem
3715 W. Anthem Way Suite 100, Anthem 602-863-0945 https://palmcroft. churchcenter.com Free
A night of music, food trucks and trick-or-treating for the kids at decorated cars set up by local businesses and organizations.
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
Monster Dash
6–8:30 p.m.
Arizona Boardwalk
5–9 p.m.
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick Resort
7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale 480-270-5000 https://azspooktacular.com
$22/Adults; $17/Children ages 3–12
The valley’s annual Halloween event features themed hot-air balloons, an inflatable kids zone, costume contests, a magic show, meet and greets with princess characters, vendor markets, tethered balloon rides, a fireworks display and trick–or–treating.
The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department presents the 21st annual Boo Fest, featuring costume contests, inflatables, a kid’s train ride, face painting, live entertainment, food, beverage, free treats and candy.
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
Creatures of the Night Hike: Super Spooky Edition
7–9 p.m.
Lake Pleasant Regional Park 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Road, Morristown 602-506-2930
www.maricopacountyparks.net
$7/Vehicle
Join the park ranger for a Halloween–themed hike to look for any kind of creepy critter that might be found in a witch’s cauldron: scorpions, snakes, bats, centipedes, toads, insects and more. Registration required.
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
Spooky Ghost Paintings
2–4 p.m.
Maricopa County Regional Library 40410 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem 602-652-3000 www.mcldaz.org/north-valley Free
Teens and tweens ages 8–18 can learn how to turn an average art print into a spooky haunted masterpiece.
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
Peoria’s Monster Bash
5–9 p.m.
Peoria Sports Complex 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria 623-298-5002
9500 W. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale 480-951-2100, www.azboardwalk.com
$35
Drop in for Halloween–themed crafts for the whole family featuring moving eyes, monster books and more. Registration is not required but supplies are limited.
A frightfully fun evening of circus performances, interactive creepy crawler exhibit, roaming Halloween characters, laser tag, obstacle courses, vendor shopping, trick–or–treating, a dance party and a costume contest.
Boo Crew welcomes
Lower Interest Rates and More Inventory Signals Higher Sales Coming
BY VALLEY VIBE STAFF WRITERS info@valleyvibenews.com
The number of active homes for sale in our local tracking zones continues to trend upward over last month and over the same month last year, when only 113 listings were available in all of our 10 tracking zones. That number jumped to 296 during last month’s tracking period, signaling good news for homebuyers. The number of homes sold in our zones also increased 14.4 percent over last month.
Nationally, home sales were down in August, but National Association of Realtors Chief
Economist Lawrence Yun said increasing inventory and lower mortgage rates should serve as a catalyst for sales to move higher in future months.
“The rise in inventory and, more technically, the accompanying months’ supply implies home buyers are in a much-improved position to find the right home and at more favorable prices,” Yun added. “However, in areas where supply remains limited, sellers still appear to hold the upper hand.”
Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist Sam Khater expressed optimism on the future impacts to the housing market as well.
“Mortgage rates continued declining towards the six percent mark, reviving purchase and refinance demand for many consumers,” Khater said. “While mortgage rates do not directly follow moves by the Federal Reserve, this first cut in over four years will have an impact on the housing market. Declining mortgage rates over the last several weeks indicate this cut was mostly baked in, but we expect rates to fall further, sparking more housing activity.”
RE/MAX Fine Properties in Anthem, AZ contributed to this report
Monthly Real Estate Snapshot
30-day totals from 8/15/2024 to 9/15/2024 highlighting the following North Phoenix neighborhoods (area codes 85083, 85085, 85086 & 85087)
THE NORTH PHOENIX VALLEY'S PREFERRED
CLASSES / LESSONS
Diamond Dance Works 34406 N 27th Drive, Suite 190 Phoenix, AZ 85085
623-582-9858, https://www.diamonddanceworks.com/ North Phoenix dance studio offering a wide variety of specialized dance education for ages 1–18. Tiny Tot, Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Contemporary, Cheer and more. Registration is open for the Fall 2024 Season.
List Your Business Here
Your Address, Phoenix, AZ
623-555-1234
www.yourdomainname.com
List your business here for as little as $49 per month. Visit www.valleyvibenews.com/advertising and get in!
CONCRETE SERVICES
NEW FOUNDATIONS CONSTRUCTION, LLC
3810 W Golden Ln Phoenix, AZ 85051
602-339-2068
newfoundationsconstructionllc@gmail.com
Concrete repair, additions, driveways, walkways, colored concrete. Call Moe at 602-339-2068 or Vincent at 602-571-7016. ROC# 352094
EDUCATION
Deer Valley Unified School District
20402 N. 15th Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85027
623-445-5000, www.dvusd.org
Serving students within a 367-square-mile boundary with 39 schools in Phoenix, Glendale, Peoria, Anthem, New River, Cave Creek and unincorporated areas of Maricopa County.
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
Starting Blocks Preschool
42101 N 41st Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85086, Ste 136 623-551-9609, www.startingblockspreschool.com
Christian preschool offering The Creative Curriculum® aligned with the Head Start Child Development, Early Learning Framework and state early learning standards. Now enrolling ages 18 months to pre-K
BUSINESS & SERVICES DIRECTORY
Liv+ at Union Peak
844-liv-here
25400 N 21st Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85085
www.livcommunities.com
Resort-style living for 55+ aged adults. Deluxe amenities, activities, shopping and dining attractions. Various floorplans and lease options. Opening Fall of 2024.
MISC. SERVICES/ MAINTENANCE
North Valley Cart Care
219-395-6106
www.nvcartcare.com, nvccbobby@gmail.com
Anthem family-owned small business offering golf cart services, towing, tire repairs, accessories, routine maintenance and batteries.