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Freeway builders try to address concerns around schools
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BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
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s heavy construction equipment began rolling onto Pecos Road, the consortium building the South Mountain Freeway continued to try and ease the concerns of Ahwatukee residents who will be most affected by the work over the next two-and-a-half years. The effectiveness of that public relations blitz remains an open question. On Monday, a spokeswoman for Connect 202 Partners turned her attention to Lagos Elementary School, a stone’s throw from the freeway path and one of 17 schools within a half-mile radius of it. Theresa Dunn fielded questions from about a dozen people who showed up for the half-hour briefing. She explained why the first wave of heavy equipment rolled onto Pecos Road last week, disclosed that no median barrier will be installed on the four-lane interim Pecos Road and tried to ease parents’ concerns about the health and safety of Lagos pupils. She also reported that Pecos Road will be
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Heavy equipment began rolling onto Pecos Road last week as South Mountain Freeway construction began in earnest with work starting on the 17th Avenue Bridge, one of 40 that will cross the 22-mile roadway by the time work is completed in late 2019.
Back from Africa, couple starts over in Ahwatukee SPECIAL REPORT P.
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BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributing Writer
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t was six and a half years ago when Ahwatukee Foothills residents John and Kay West sold their three-story house, their two cars and all their household goods to go half a world away to the Sub-Saharan African Kingdom of Swaziland to serve as missionaries. They’d lived in their Ahwatukee home five years, raising two boys, Zack and
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Jeremy. They had careers—she a music teacher and counselor, he 25-years with Cox Communications. They were established, settled. And yet, after visiting Swaziland together in 2009, they said they “felt a call” to go— and that was enough for them to uproot and move more than 10,000 miles away. All they took was their youngest son, Jeremy—son Zack was college-bound— their dachshund mix Barney and a Neapolitan mastiff Boaz. They said their faith in God was leading them.
On Jan. 16 the couple flew into Los Angeles International Airport and headed by car back to Ahwatukee, where they now reside after friends helped locate a rental home. They arrived with two suitcases each, two carry-ons a piece and two dogs—Barney and their newest, an African Great Dane named Zeke that came to them as a puppy but now looks more like a leggy, black pony. Also in tow were the memories of time spent in HIV-plagued Swaziland, and two See
AFRICA on page 14
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Desert Vista High School teachers Dawn Schmidt, left, and Linda Burrows last summer traveled to Berlin, Germany, and visited the New Palace in Potsdam.
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2 Desert Vista High teachers picked for international study groups AFN NEWS STAFF
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wo Desert Vista High School teachers will be dusting off their passports and tabulating their reward miles after getting invitations to separate international study programs. Social studies teacher Dawn Schmidt, who has visited more than two dozen countries, will be traveling to Dubai in March on an all-expenses-paid study trip offered by the World Affairs Council in Dallas in partnership with the United Arab Emirates Embassy. “This is such an incredible opportunity to study the school system in Dubai,” said Schmidt, one of a dozen teachers across the country who were invited to the program. The program explores culture, education workshops, travel and community events and is designed to support curriculum development that “emphasizes 21st century skills and promotes collaboration between American and UAE educators,” the Tempe Union High School District said in a release. Meanwhile, teacher Linda Burrows will be traveling some 6,200 miles during the summer to Bosnia and Albania as part of another prestigious study program for educators. Burrows, who teaches world history, economics and AP human geography, is one of seven high school teachers selected from across the country for the Fulbright-Hays Group Projects Abroad Program. She will study the geography, history, language, literature and culture of the Balkans. The Maricopa College Office of International and Intercultural Education and the University of Arizona Center for Middle Eastern Studies (CMES) are covering expenses. >> See
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FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
Norgaard wins first approval of bill to aid dyslexics AFN NEWS STAFF
A
hwatukee legislator Jill Norgaard has gained progress in her efforts to help dyslexic children and their parents. The House Education Committee last week approved her HB 2022, which would establish a dyslexia handbook to help parents and teachers better identify and support students with dyslexia. The bill will be voted on by the House and Senate later this legislative session. “This bill will help close the achievement gap among Arizona students by giving parents and educators the tools necessary for early detection and intervention, which will drastically help students struggling with dyslexia,” said Norgaard, Republican representative from the 18th Legislative District. The handbook would provide guidelines for parents and teachers to identify dyslexia, educational strategies to improve academic performance of students with dyslexia, and available services and resources to students with dyslexia. Norgaard, along with local and
statewide stakeholders, also plan to establish a pre-school pilot program that would establish procedures for early detection of dyslexia in students. “With the creation of a successful pilot program, Arizona will be the first state to detect dyslexia in preschool - a monumental achievement in education,” she said. Norgaard has been working for nearly a year on expanding ways to detect dyslexia early and in the past has noted, “We found that decoding and treating dyslexia in students has a direct impact on early literacy. Approximately 18 percent of all students have some form of dyslexia, many of which go undetected.” She said, “Unfortunately, intervention for these students is somewhat inconsistent across districts. Some schools provide for all-day kindergarten and others do not. Students who transition from districts without baseline programs discover that not all literacy programs are on the same track.” Dyslexia covers disorders that involve difficulty in learning to read or interpret words, letters and other symbols, but does not affect general intelligence.
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
DiCiccio heads into sanctuary city vote with a firm ‘no way’ see the city charter requires petitions to be “acted upon…” within 15 days. hoenix Councilman Sal DiCiccio “The next opportunity for the council will get to fight with his colleagues to act within 15 days is the Feb. 15 about immigration after all. formal meeting. So the petition will have Two weeks ago, DiCiccio challenged to appear on the agenda for that next Mayor Greg Stanton to ask City council meeting. The council can act Council to make Phoenix however its sees fit. Given a sanctuary city, which the broad latitude in would adopt a policy of the charter language, it’s protecting undocumented impossible to speculate on immigrants by not what action the council prosecuting them ultimately will take on the for violating federal petition,” he said. immigration laws. DiCiccio has already But while Stanton has announced his intention. publicly declared that state “I am firmly opposed to law forbids such a move, the effort to make Phoenix Council will have to vote a Sanctuary City,” he said (AFN file photo) on a measure anyway on in a release. “I don’t believe Feb. 15 because a citizen Sal DiCiccio has already declared any local government his opposition to sanctuary city has petitioned it to declare request before City Council. should be able to pick and Phoenix a sanctuary city. choose the laws they want The petition says “it is incumbent to enforce. Additionally, I believe such upon the City of Phoenix to demonstrate a move would be illegal and would put leadership” by protecting law-abiding our officers in the unethical position of undocumented immigrants. having to ignore their oath to uphold City spokesman David Urbinato said state and federal laws.”
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“I’m really excited and honored to have been selected,” said Burrows, who will develop a curriculum project for Desert Vista involving a group language/ linguistics program.
Thunder academic team reaches national Quiz Bowl
Desert Vista and Corona del Sol high school teams have fielded state wins to qualify for the National Academic Quiz Tournament High School National Championship May 26-28 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Desert Vista team, which placed first in three of their four tournaments, including the January Arizona Quizbowl Invitational, consists of juniors Vinayak Parthasarathy and Connor Greig and seniors Brandon Jiang, Hannah Fuchs, Jeremy Chao, Sang Bo Yoon, Jaeyong Kim and Kai Yin. They are coached by Desert Vista Math teachers John Cook and Francoise Dastous. Quiz bowl is a game in which two teams compete head-to-head to answer questions from all areas of knowledge
including history, literature, science, fine arts, current events, sports, and popular culture. A “buzzer system” (or, more formally, a “lockout device”) lets players interrupt the reading of a question when they know the answer. The Quiz Bowl was founded in 1996 by a group of former players who are now college professors, high school teachers, lawyers, engineers, software developers, physicians and research scientists.
Ahwatukee students in college make dean’s lists for fall
Several Ahwatukee students made the fall semester dean’s lists at their respective universities and colleges. Brenna Leftwich, a junior majoring in marketing, was among 2,253 students who won that academic distinction at Coastal Carolina University. Noelani Frietag made the dean’s list at the University of Arizona. The 2015 Desert Vista High School graduate is a sophomore with a dual major in mass communications and history. And Kylie Costello. a senior studying public health, was named to the dean’s list at Kent State University in Ohio.
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
adjacent to the parking lot that has been eliminated from the latest plan, was gratified to see it disappear. Drennon and several other residents were not completely sold on the safety lighting. Diaz said it is designed to be unobtrusive, would shine downward, would be controlled by motion detectors and is designed to offer just enough light to allow a visitor to find car keys or load gear into a car or truck. Residents said anyone hiking or bicycling after dark should pack a flashlight, or avoid the problem altogether by using the park during daylight. “I’m not 100 percent against it,’’ Drennon said. “It’s a nice compromise. I don’t think it’s necessary.’’ But officials said that other park users had specifically requested at least a small amount of lighting to help them leave the park. No one is allowed inside the park after 7 p.m., but the trails are technically open until 11 p.m., said Alonso Avitia, the department’s deputy director. “We don’t want the overhead lighting that shines all night and lights up like a Christmas tree,’’ Diaz said. Parks officials said the trailhead would (AFN file photo) be closed for construction from May Cars are stacked up along roads leading to the South Mountain trails. A plan to expand parking and to make other trailhead improvements is already through September, with a grand regenerating controversy among neighbors concerned about more noise, pollution and destruction of the desert. opening in October in time for the cooler peak season. The parking expansion at Beverley Canyon would take place a year later. Pima Canyon is one of the busiest trail heads at the massive, 56,000 acre park. BY JIM WALSH The city also plans to re-vegetate changes,’’ said Jane Meneely, who When the trail head improvements are AFN Staff Writer several spider trails in the area, created attended both meetings. combined with the trail plan, the park by hikers and bicyclists trampling the Bob Meneely, Jane’s husband, said faces it’s most significant facelift in he dispute over a plan to expand desert by taking short cuts. That effort the couple lives near the park but not decades. parking at the busy Pima Canyon is part of a major new trails master plan immediately adjacent to the trail head. The trails master plan generally calls Trail head at South Mountain scheduled tentatively to go before the “I liked the way they were conscious for much-improved signage, a glaring Park turned into a lesson about the art of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board on of the encroachment into the weakness in the park. A more coherent compromise last week. Feb. 23. neighborhood,’’ Bob Meneely said, trail system is a major goal. The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Diaz also adopted part of a suggestion adding that the additional parking Previously unrecognized trails will be Department dropped plans to build that seemed far-fetched at first. He would have spoiled the view from added to the trail system and spider trails a parking lot that neighbors had found room to increase the parking at people’s backyards. will be closed for re-vegetation. Many of complained about in November. They Beverley Canyon, which has these spider trails are near didn’t want more nearby desert paved a trailhead on the north side Ahwatukee neighborhoods. and didn’t want more cars, people and of the mountain near Baseline James Ritter, a parks I liked the way they were conscious spokesman, said the two noise near their houses. Road. But Joe Diaz, the city parks’ principal Residents who packed projects will merge together of the encroachment into the landscape architect, still found a way into a small room said they at Pima Canyon, saving time to re-organize a chaotic parking lot, were pleased overall with the and resources. He said the neighborhood. expanding the number of spaces from latest plan, although they trail head represents a —Resident Bob Meneely closed 169 to 213, moving a ramada closer still have reservations about great opportunity to upgrade to a trail and combining it with a new some low-level, solar-powered trails and signage in the area. restroom facility. “safety lighting’’ planned for the newly “I would have been devastated,’’ he While most of the Pima Canyon plan “It steers people to where we want configured parking lot. said, if his house faced a new parking lot. is in place, there may be some revisions them to go,’’ Diaz said, by creating a “I think they did a wonderful job, David Drennon, who lives in based upon the comments of residents, more dramatic entry monument. taking everyone’s comments and making subdivision that would have been Ritter said.
Neighbors largely pleased by Pima Canyon Trail plan revisions
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FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
Norgaard joins House push for mandatory school recess for youngsters HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services
D
espite some misgivings, Ahwatukee legislator Jill Norgaard went along with her colleagues on a state House panel that wants kids in kindergarten through fifth grade to have unstructured recess for 50 minutes in the school day. Saying it will lead to healthier children more ready to learn, the House Education Committee last week voted unanimously to require all schools to offer the recess and make it unstructured, meaning the kids decide for themselves how they want to spend the time. The approval of HB 2082 came after a plea from freshman Rep. Jesus Rubalcava, D-Gila Bend. He told colleagues that his experience as a teacher working with students with special needs, including hyperactive children, convinces him that all youngsters will benefit. But despite the unanimous vote, not everyone was convinced the state should be telling schools what to do. Norgaard, a Republican representing the 18th Legislative District, said she’s not convinced that schools have the time to do what the legislation proposes. “What subjects would you suggest be replaced to include recess?’’ she asked. Kyrene School Superintendent Jan Vesely was even more pointed in her reaction to the bill. “The primary concern would be how we would have to accommodate any new recess requirements within the confines of our existing instructional day,” she said. “Many of our teachers in Kyrene provide, in addition to the daily recess periods, in-classroom ‘break breaks’ or short periods of directed activity in which students get up and move around,” she said, adding “They aren’t sitting in their rows of desks all day.” “I would also have a concern with whether any additional recess would have to be outdoors—we often have weeks where we have to limit outdoor activity due to heat advisories in the interest of protecting the safety of our students,” Vesely said. Some of Norgaard’s other colleagues were even more troubled. “I don’t support mandates,’’ said Rep. David Stringer, R-Prescott. And he questioned the comments of a series of
witnesses who insisted that play time like this really leads to better education. “If the research on this is so strong in favor of the benefits of recess, then why wouldn’t charter schools and why wouldn’t individual districts and individual school governing boards recognize that and implement it?’’ he asked. Rep. Michelle Udall, R-Mesa, questioned how a mandate on unstructured play would work on a rainy day when kids can’t go outside. But Rep. Paul Boyer, R-Phoenix, who chairs the committee, suggested that’s looking at the issue the wrong way. “The question presupposes that this is not a critical component, especially for the little guys ... of their educational experience,’’ said Boyer, who teaches at Veritas Preparatory Academy. “It helps with behavior problems, it helps with all of the other subject areas,’’ he said. “So, I think this is a critical component of one’s education, especially K through 5.’’ And Rubalcava said the research is so strong that it becomes an obligation on state lawmakers to tell districts they will fit this into their schedules. He cited one study where recess was added to a school where that was not part of the day. “Students became more on-task and less fidgety on days when they had recess,’’ Rubalcava said, saying that even included students with attention-deficit disorder. And he said there is evidence that sunlight stimulates the pineal gland that regulates the body’s clock “and simply makes us feel better.’’ But Rubalcava said he’s not relying purely on academic studies, citing his experience with hyperactive kids. “Recess is an opportunity to expend energy in a healthy, suitable manner,’’ he said. “Outside, children can engage in behavior: loud, messy, whatever they want to do, that is what this bill is intended to do.’’ Rubalcava said recess also gives teachers a break from drilling information into students’ heads. But Rep. Rusty Bowers, R-Mesa, said he sees recess as a chance for all students to actually learn something practical. So, for example, Bowers said if a kid acts out on the playground and pushes someone else, he or she might get knocked down.
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1,846 sf, 3 bedrooms plus loft; 2.5 bathrooms. Open kitchen family room floor plan! Large family room with gas fireplace. Kitchen boasts refinished cabinetry with brushed nickel hardware, breakfast bar, eat-in kitchen nook, upgraded faucet, R/O and pantry. All appliances convey including the refrigerator and washer/dryer! Tile flooring in formal living/dining rooms, family room, kitchen and downstairs traffic areas. Split master floor plan. Large master suite with double sinks, walk-in shower and enormous walk-in closet. Pool size backyard. Extra patio area in back with brick pavers. North/south exposure. Walking distance to community park/playground.
Hearthstone LISTED FOR
$219,900
Beautifully updated single level, split master floor plan home! 1,089 sf, 3bedrooms/2bathrooms. Kitchen boasts custom painted gray-finish cabinetry with crown molding and trendy brush nickel hardware. Eat-in kitchen nook. Open kitchen-great room floor plan. Upgraded stainless steel appliances. Refrigerator conveys! Master suite has double sinks, skylight and his/hers closets. Upgraded light fixtures throughout. 2016 exterior and interior paint. Pool size backyard! Extra pad for a gazebo or hot tub in back yard. 2016 patio cover/structure. Low maintenance front and back yard landscaping.
Tierra Dobson LISTED FOR
$295,000
2,040 sf single level 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home on nearly a ¼ acre lot. Cul de sac location! Large backyard with sparkling, recently replastered pool and refinished kool deck. RV Gate and large side yard for extra parking. Spacious 2.5 car garage with a workshop. Kitchen remodeled with granite counter tops, custom refinished white cabinets and new stainless steel appliances. Plush landscape in back and low maintenance desert landscape in front.
Foothills Listed for
$335,000
2,169 sf, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home with three car garage and sparkling pool! Open kitchen-family room floor plan. Kitchen and bathrooms upgraded in 2016 with granite counters, upgraded sinks/faucets and new toilets. Large backyard with grass area and mature landscape. 2016 AC, 2015 variable speed pool pump! 2016 garage door and garage opener, 2016 sprinklers and drip lines, and 2015 water heater. Interior and exterior painted in 2016. Carpet in only two secondary bedrooms (new!) 20" porcelain tile in family room, formal living/dining rooms and laminate wood flooring on stair case, upper level traffic area, master suite and largest secondary bedroom.
Highland Estates LISTED FOR
$385,000
1,763 sf 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home in the Biltmore area! Remarkable remodel! Kitchen boasts new white shaker cabinets with trendy hardware, quartz counter tops, breakfast bar, eat-in kitchen area with upgraded crystal chandelier, pantry, and stainless steel Whirlpool appliances. New dual pane vinyl windows throughout. New Arcadia door in family room. New wood look tile flooring throughout with carpet only in bedrooms. Bathrooms completely remodeled with new cabinets, quartz vanity tops, new toilets, sinks, faucets, mirrors and light fixtures. New 4 ¼" baseboards throughout. New water heater, exterior/ interior paint, and exterior stucco. Large inside laundry room with new hook up. Newer roof and AC. 1 car garage, 1 car carport and 4 car slab parking.
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reception from some residents. Writing on PARC’s Facebook page, from page 1 Lori Sangl Fisher said: “Mayor Greg closed in both directions between 32nd Stanton has done ZERO to minimize the and 40th streets this weekend, starting impact of this freeway on Ahwatukee. I Friday night, so that SRP can relocate would like to see what he thinks he has power lines. done for our community except allow Many of the audience members left this travesty to happen.” dissatisfied, grumbling over how Dunn The city study will take 60 to 90 days deflected their questions related to the to complete and would be available for freeway’s design and its environmental city review around the same time that impact. Others expressed unhappiness traffic on half of Pecos Road will be about how the freeway and its shunted over to a makeshift roadway construction will affect children and area that will be built on the eastbound lanes. residents. The interim roadway is being built Meanwhile, Phoenix Mayor Greg to allow Pecos Road traffic to continue Stanton’s press secretary while the freeway is defended the timing under construction. of the city’s study of Despite concerns how the construction raised by the Ahwatukee will impact traffic on Foothills Village streets near the freeway Planning Committee as well as on Chandler last month about a Boulevard and Ray safety hazard created Road. by the absence of a In an email to median barrier on the questions raised by the interim roadway, Dunn Ahwatukee Foothills said it would require News a week earlier, an additional six feet of spokesman Robbie right-of-way. Sherwood on Jan. 31 She said the interim (Dietmar Hanke/Special to AFN) said the study was a roadway was a “typical response to a “good Crews working around 17th Avenue arterial street design” Pecos Road demolished three idea” raised by unnamed and for construction activity old-growth ironwood trees. Ahwatukee residents and said motorists would who “requested a more narrow and have to obey the new speed limit of 40 specific ‘micro’ view of how local traffic mph and exercise caution. patterns might change during and after Residents at the Lagos meeting construction of the freeway.” contended that many motorists would “Specifically, residents wanted to see detour onto streets in Lakewood, but potential impacts to collector streets like Dunn told them the city is reviewing Liberty Lane,” Sherwood said, adding some suggestions for traffic abatement that the study “will help us address these it received from the Lakewood concerns.” Homeowners Association board. Members of the anti-freeway group Dunn said representatives of Connect Protect Arizona’s Resources and Children 202 Partners have been reaching out to said they have been asking Stanton’s nearby residents, schools and businesses office and Councilman Sal DiCiccio for with more detailed news about what to an impact study for years. expect as construction begins to ramp In reaction to PARC President up in the coming weeks and months. Pat Lawlis’ assertion that “the city Lagos Principal Ana Gomez del dropped the ball” in planning for traffic Castillo said she has been fielding disruptions created by construction, numerous questions from concerned Sherwood said: parents. Some wonder whether the “Mayor Stanton was personally 1,400 workers along the entire 22-mile opposed to this freeway alignment, length of the freeway have been vetted but now that it is moving forward, he since hundreds would be working near is committed to do everything the city school children. Others brought up the can to help mitigate negative impacts impact of noise and dust. on our residents. We have assigned Dunn said that she believed some a dedicated team coordinated that background checking had been includes various city department staff to undertaken for the 500 workers work with the developer to be responsive employed directly by Connect 202 to the concerns of residents and business Partners but that she didn’t know what owners in the area.” Stanton’s remarks received a poor See CONCERNS on page 11
NEWS
FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
CONCERNS
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from page 10
had been done for the subcontractors’ employees. A construction supervisor said that workers would not be allowed to park their personal vehicles near the school and that they would likely be separated from any area where children might be. Castillo also said she was concerned about Lagos boys, who already have become curious about the huge pieces of equipment that have appeared in the neighborhood. And she noted that attendance at the school would be increasing because many students are registering for Lagos’ dual-language program. Dunn said a fence would be erected along the back of the school and a tarp would be installed, blocking the pupils’ view. Noting that she and her colleagues have been working with all schools in the area, Dunn also said Connect 202 Partners would attempt to schedule some of the heavier construction near Lagos during spring break or the summer. However, she cautioned, “We can’t always do that.” “We want to work with the community as much as we can to minimize the impact
(Dianne Ross/ AFN Contributor)
About 20 residents and Lagos Elementary parents attended a briefing Monday evening on South Mountain Freeway construction impacts. The briefing came from a representative of the three-company consortium building the 22-mile freeway.
of construction on the community,” Dunn said, adding that noise would be minimized by the fact that much of the equipment is new and has better soundsuppression. She also said dust would be controlled by frequent watering. Meanwhile, residents near another section of the freeway path complained that crews ripped out three large ironwood trees just east of 17th Avenue.
“These were old-growth specimens whose diameter was at least 12 inches,” said resident Dietmar Hanke. “They are now lying in the dirt. So much for ADOT’s assertion, and defense against the injunction, that the ‘salvage plan’ for the trees over 4 inches would prevent irreversible harm. Just another baldfaced lie.” Drilling began in the vicinity of 17th
Avenue and Pecos road for the support shafts of one of the 40 bridges that will be built along the length of the freeway. Giant rebar cages will be placed into holes now being drilled and concrete will soon be poured to create bridge columns, said Dustin Krugel, a spokesman for the Arizona Department of Transportation. Work also began on extending a box culvert.
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
Lego fans show their brickbuilding skills with Gotham City BY RALPH ZUBIATE AFN Managing Editor
C
lark Edwards owns a few pieces of Lego. OK, more than a few. “More than I want to say,” he shared, smiling. Edwards is a member of Cactus Brick, a Tempe-based fan club for Lego lovers. “My dining room is filled with Lego. In fact, I no longer have a dining room,” he said. “My wife was not surprised. “She’s been fairly supportive,” he joked. Edwards and other members of Cactus Brick build displays with Lego, and get to show them off. With “The Lego Batman Movie” debuting Friday, Feb. 10, the group was asked to build a gigantic Gotham City. The 15-foot by 22-foot display features Wayne Manor, the Batcave, Arkham Asylum and Wayne Tower.
The city is in Tempe Marketplace, at space 1234, the site of an old athletic shoe store. It’s next to Buckle and across from Spencer’s, on the east side of the outdoor mall. Edwards, the treasurer of the group, says about 35 people are members, both men and women. Yes, they’re all a little bit nerdy, but they have real jobs, too. The group features a welder, a cab driver, a police officer, a real-estate agent and a lawyer. Edwards keeps records at a Scottsdale hospital. “Yeah, we do also have computer people,” he confessed. The city they’re building is placed on a series of custom-built tables three feet tall. Everybody who has participated in the project built their pieces at their homes and then had them taken to Tempe Marketplace to be installed. “We use a lot of bubble wrap,” he said. Over the course of a couple of days, the
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(Jesse Stawnyczy/AFN Staff Photographer)
Clark Edwards of Cactus Brick rearranges a row house in the group’s Gotham City diorama at Tempe Marketplace.
city is assembled and finishing touches are added, such as more Lego character figures and trains that go around the city. The Lego group itself evolved from a model train group.
See
LEGO on page 13
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(Jesse Stawnyczy/AFN Staff Photographer)
Top: Joker and Harley Quinn make a motorcycle escape in Cactus Bricks’ Gotham City. Right: Villains and heroes are scattered on the train tracks, waiting to be placed in Gotham City.
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film’s debut. Warner Brothers liked how it turned out, and contacted the group afterward. They’ve constructed several displays for them since, one for “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” last year. Edwards is hoping that they’ll be asked to build something out of Lego for the “Wonder Woman” or “Justice League” movies out this year. Oh, and the company that makes the bricks insists that “Lego” is the plural of Lego. “They’re very definitive about it,” he said. “They will correct you.” The group doesn’t just build for movies. A couple of times a year, the group makes a diorama for Tempe Marketplace or for Desert Ridge Marketplace in Phoenix. As with the “Batman” movie, they’re given an empty store rent-free for a couple of weeks. They don’t get paid. “We do leave out a tip jar, just in case,” Edwards said. “We do try different things on occasion, but mostly it’s a city with a train around it.” Cactus Brick will be building something special for Phoenix Comicon in May. They’ll put together a pirate
battle. It’ll change daily to show the progress of the fight. They’ve built for Comicon before, from a post-apocalyptic city to a medieval scene to a Battle of Hoth from “The Empire Strikes Back.” The group also has a display at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale. Right now, a winter village is featured, and it replaced a fairy tale town. Edwards created a lot of fairy tale display. One piece of it has been hidden in the Gotham City scene: The Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe. The group gets a positive feedback from their displays. Edwards says people are fascinated by the projects. “People are amazed what you can build. They think you have to build what’s on the box. But Lego is so imaginative,” he said. “Some people create with clay, some with oil and paint. We use plastic bricks.” Lego Gotham City will be on display today from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, Feb. 10 and 11, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. 12, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. – Contact Ralph Zubiate at 480-898-6825 or rzubiate@timespublications.com.
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AFRICA
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years in South African rural villages. They also brought memories of hippos grazing behind their church, bull elephants rushing headlong towards their car, leopards and pythons in the bush—and people who laughed and praised God in the midst of drought, death and hardships of daily life in rural Africa. As missionaries, they made many fast friendships. Hearing “God’s call to return to Arizona” was difficult, but as real as the one they’d obeyed to go. “We both wanted with all of our hearts to stay in Africa but also knew God’s plans are what matter,” Kay said. “John knew early on that God was calling us back to the States and fervently prayed God would also show me, and the Holy Spirit did indeed prepare me. “So, since we both felt led in the same way, even though it was against our human will, we chose once again to be obedient,” she added. “Leaving was one of the most painful things I’ve had to do.” Re-acclimating to the faster pace of life in the U.S. is another difficulty for the couple, one she illustrated on a recent Facebook post with a close-up of a befuddled looking Zeke. A writer who had her first book published in December, Kay Cassidy West uses Facebook to communicate with her friends on two continents as she struggles with a variety of emotions. “John and I are (also) trying to get steady on our feet in our ‘new’ home country of the USA,” she posted last month. “Things have changed a lot since we moved away…and y’all talk and walk really fast here and the plethora of choices is overwhelming.” Yet, the upheaval of returning has only been exceeded by the generosity of area friends and their home church, Ahwatukee’s Bridgeway Community Church.
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
Their modest one-story rental home She led Bible studies in the bush, she surrendered walk with Him, and to raise was furnished and stocked by area and John learned to speak siSwati and funds for His Kingdom’s work. A good friends and church members. befriended Swazi women who, though portion of the book’s proceeds will be “We were back less than a week and we some of the hardest working women poured directly back into SwaziServe.” had a fully-supplied home! Now we’re West said she’s ever met, were considered So now that they’re back in Arizona, praying John gets the right job so we can second-class citizens. what’s next? afford the rent,” she laughed. The couple, who’ve been married “We’re still seeking the Lord’s face Kay is a versatile musician who taught nearly 32 years, lived among the people for ‘what’s now,’” Kay said. “We will flute, piano and saxophone to absolutely still be actively more than 30 students a week involved in southern Africa while serving as a pastoral and will continue to solicit counselor—she holds a masters in support for Swaziserve. counseling—and homeschooling “While John actively her sons before moving to looks for employment, our Swaziland. hope is that I will be able And yet, her and John’s work in to stay home and write Swaziland resulted in a book that another book or two, is selling well on Amazon. plus helping our elderly “Refiner’s Fire: My Walk with mothers,” she continued. God in the Kingdom of Swaziland” Kay has also agreed to be is West’s first book, but not her an International Leadership last as she sets her short-term goal Developer with Moms in on writing another book about Prayer International. The their experience in South Africa, volunteer position puts her too. in charge of nine southern “Refiner’s Fire” premiered Dec. Africa countries: Swaziland, 1, a date her husband noted was South Africa, Lesotho, a compelling, though unplanned, Mozambique, Botswana, release date. Madagascar, Zimbabwe, “Dec. 1 was World Aids Day,” Zambia and Namibia. said John West, who grew up in She was involved with the Mesa. “Did you know that the organization prior to and clear majority of people living while living in Swaziland with HIV reside in Sub-Saharan and South Africa. Africa with Swaziland having the The Wests are quick to highest rate of HIV/AIDS in the note their nearly seven world? years in Africa, even with “We really don’t know of anyone the exotic flora and fauna, (Dianne Ross/AFN Contributor) in southern Africa who has not John and Kay West are back in Ahwatukee after their six-year sojourn in was “so much more” than been personally affected by this Africa, but they are still raising money to help HIV-plagued Swaziland. an exotic getaway. terrible disease.” “The reality is that this Her book that includes both humor who have the lowest life expectancy in wasn’t one glamorous vacation but rather and heart-rending experiences, recounts the world at 31.8 years, the result of six and a half years of pouring out our her immersion into a country as far the prevalence of both HIV-AIDS and lives in ministry,” said Kay. “The even removed from her former life as could be tuberculosis. greater truth is that we have been the imagined. They became a part of the communities ones who have been blessed.” Having started their nonprofit, in which they served. Information: SwaziServe.com. SwaziServe, Inc., before they left “I believe in this book,” said Kay. “I “The Refiner’s Fire: My Walk with God Ahwatukee, they inaugurated their new wrote it with several goals in mind: to in the Kingdom of Swaziland” is sold on ministry with boots on the ground. glorify God, to encourage others to a CreateSpace.com and Amazon.com.
Excerpts from Kay West’s new book, “The Refiner’s Fire”
“T
hink of the possibilities,” our host pastor encouraged nervously as we all attempted to peer through impossibly grimy windows at garbage-strewn floors, walls with peeling paint, broken windows, and ghastly cobwebs everywhere. Frankly, I am not a visionary, and I could not imagine anything at that point due to the lurching of my stomach at the mere thought of
living in such squalor. We’d just sold our beautiful, five-bedroom home in Phoenix, Arizona. I consoled myself with the observation that at least there was flooring intact. As my husband later quipped, we went from “travertine to linoleum.” I was definitely relieved when we all piled in the car and headed back over the bumpy dirt road to the pastor’s modern and spotlessly clean home where we
were blessed to stay until the workmen could complete what I thought to be an impossible task–making that house from my worst nightmares into a decent home where we would live. It was an unsettling beginning to the Lord’s even more unsettling work in my heart as He began to refine me in ways more painful and more glorious than I could ever have envisioned.
…….. The happiest times I ever had were sitting among them on a grass mat, under a huge shade tree, while kids and chickens and flies buzzed around us. We discussed the weather, our children, births and deaths, and most of all, our Lord Jesus Christ. We laughed together, and oh, how they could laugh.
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FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
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State rehabilitation program costly, inefficient, audit finds BY ETHAN MILLMAN Cronkite News
A
recent state audit found the state’s Vocational Rehabilitation program, which helps thousands of people with physical or mental disabilities prepare for and find work, spends significantly more per person on average than similar programs in other states —about 2.5 times the amount. And, the audit says, Arizona isn’t as successful with its participants. It pointed out that if the program became more efficient, it could serve more people—and possibly help more of the 2,800 people on its waiting list. The Arizona Office of the Auditor General’s 37-page report pointed out the rehabilitation program spends about $16,200 per case, nearly $10,000 above the cost of 32 similar programs. And it has a rehabilitation rate of 51 percent, about 6 percent lower than the other programs, the audit found. Officials measure rehabilitation by one factor: getting a job after completing the program.
Auditors suggested the program, which is run by the Department of Economic Security, add more oversight, guidance and training. Program officials said they’re working with the state to make improvements. “We do have work to do, and we recognize that,” said Kristen Mackey, the program’s administrator. “We’re still doing really good work out in the field, and we don’t want that to be minimized and overlooked with this information that’s coming out.” The program, mostly funded by federal dollars, served about 1,500 people last year. It provides many services, including providing equipment, such as hearing aids or prosthetic limbs, and educating clients for their specific line of work. A doctor referred Darrin Warrilow, a former electrician who lost his eyesight in a chemical accident, to the program. Warrilow now owns Kahala Coffee Traders at the state Capitol. He said that with the help of the program, he not only got back into the workforce, but he feels that he’s overcome his disability. Workers taught Warrilow
how to use a cane and a computer. They also supplied him with his restaurant space and provided him with a business consultant. Overall, the program’s goal is to get people not only working, but working in competitive job environments alongside people without disabilities. “So we are making some gains and some improvements,” Mackey said. “And I want to reiterate that the mission is to help individuals with disabilities become employed and independent, and that’s really what the goal is.” But helping people find work comes at a cost. The program is expected to cost about $140 million in fiscal 2017, according to the audit. To measure its effectiveness, auditors analyzed 32 comparable agencies in other states and territories and found Arizona, on average per case, outspent them. While some of the services, such as assessments and job-related services, were expensive, vocational training was by far the most expensive service at about $28.1 million.
Dot Reinhard, one of the auditors who took part in the audit, said the main issue was a lack of guidance. She said the program needs more oversight to improve efficiency. “For example, we recommended they look into lowering the authorization levels for clients, improving guidance for their staff who work with the clients,” Reinhard said. “In addition, we recommended they develop ways for monitoring progress in terms of cost and how long clients are in the program.” The report also indicated that many people aren’t getting help. Currently, the program only serves individuals with the most significant disabilities. As of Dec. 1, the program had about 2,800 lowerpriority clients on the waitlist to enter the program. For example, the audit analyzed the number of clients who “exited” the program without obtaining employment—about 76 percent in federal fiscal years 2014 and 2015. But Mackey said those numbers can include clients who died, left Arizona or simply chose not to participate.
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Local historian plans special Capitol tours to mark Arizona’s birthday BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
W
hen Valentine’s Day comes around next Tuesday, Patrick Lutz of Ahwatukee hopes to share with the public a special love. He’ll even take people on a tour of the object of his affection—the Arizona Capitol complex. As an educator at the Arizona Capitol Museum and Capitol Guild vice president, the Wisconsin transplant is excited about the free public tours he has scheduled to share “many new and exciting details about the buildings and surrounding areas” that comprise the seat of power in the state at 1700 W. Washington St., Phoenix. His tours coincide with next Tuesday’s 105th anniversary of Arizona becoming (AFN file photo) Ahwatukee resident Patrick Lutz's group tours of the State Capitol Building will give participants an the nation’s 48th state. The tours, at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. inside view into little-known facts about the 48th state's seat of power. 11, and 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14, will begin outside in front of the Capitol, as well as his long-time interest in the the world.” With his background in restoration where Lutz and retired history teacher Old West. “As a member of the Arizona Guides work, Lutz also is called upon to repair Michael Cady will walk participants around and regale them with tales from Association, I was made aware of the historic artifacts. museum’s opportunities,” said Lutz. “At That work led him to be called upon the complex’s past. the Capitol Museum, I interpret our by the late President Gerald Ford one Lutz previewed some of those tales: “On the tour, you will learn the displays through tours and small group time. As Lutz recalled, a box was presented answers to such questions as: Why presentations. People visit from all 50 wasn’t the dome actually made of states, and we have visitors from around by Ford to survivors of the U.S.S. copper originally? What plans had been made over the years that would have drastically altered the building and grounds we see today? Which features were included in the original design of the Capitol intended to keep it cooler in the days before air-conditioning? Why did the Capitol grounds have a Chinese bamboo forest? Were there really bullet holes found in the Winged Victory statue on top of the dome? “This tour helps us understand the present by explaining our past,” Lutz added, stating that his two tours will be different from those that visitors normally take. Lutz was a teacher for 30 years in Wisconsin before he retired and moved ( here. Special to AFN) He was drawn to the Capitol Museum Patrick Lutz of Ahwatukee holds a box that contained two glasses and a bottle of champagne that as a result of his history studies in college the late President Gerald Ford designated to be consumed by the last two survivors of the battleship Arizona, which sank during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Arizona, the battleship that went down during the attack on Pearl Harbor. “The box contains two glasses and a bottle of Champagne,” Lutz said. “It was to be consumed by the last two survivors. The box is shared by our museum and the museum at Pearl Harbor. It was damaged in transit and I was asked to fix it.” For the current tour, his discoveries date back to 2015, when he and another researcher were asked to research the Arizona Capitol Building. “The research was for a display that would be installed on the fourth floor of the building, where it remains today,” Lutz said. “After completing the research, we realized that there was so much more to learn about one our state’s valuable treasures. Another educator got involved, and we went on a quest to find as much information as we could about the original building and subsequent additions. “We interviewed former employees, found on-site documentation and conducted research at the Polly Rosenbaum Archives and Arizona State University Research Library,” he continued. “After compiling all of our notes, we put together a tour that addresses many questions that a visitor might pose, as well as state workers who pass through the buildings each day.” Lutz promises that the tour will be “filled with interesting Arizona History that anybody would enjoy, along with trivia and quirky facts that make our participants say ‘Wow, I never knew that.’” The tour begins outside where the Capitol area “went from an alfalfa field to a lush green park that Phoenicians visited by trolley, years before the Territorial Capitol was constructed.” It then moves inside, where Lutz said people will “examine the architecture of this iconic building, designed by James Riely Gordon, and the many alterations made to it over the years. “We uncover the story of how it was preserved and transformed into the wonderful museum, and one of Phoenix’s famous Points of Pride, we all appreciate today.”
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FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
Ahwatukee photographer’s images get worldwide kudos machine. Second, I found an old pair of picture of a sewing machine boots from another part of the room and in a room at an abandoned placed them on the floor in the sunlight Wickenburg gold mine has to add another interesting element to earned Ahwatukee photographer Dale the composition.” Kesel some international fame. Using a medium format film camera Photographers world-wide recently mounted on a tripod, Kesel said he voted the picture as one of had to carefully adjust the the five best of 2016 on the shutter speed "because of website pixoto.com. the strong contrast between Kesel also had two other the bright window and the photos among the year’s top relatively low light inside 10 and two more on the top the room.” 20 at the website, used. “When I had the film The top-rated photo was developed, I selected the shot at Vulture Mine, a one frame that gave me the productive mine from the best balance between open late 1880s until it was closed shadow areas and highlights at the start of World War II. (AFN file photo) that were not over-exposed,” “This image of an old Ahwatukee photographer he said. Singer sewing machine was earns global kudos. A resident of Ahwatukee created in the living quarters since 1991, when he moved adjacent to the assay office on the site,” from New York City after a 20-year Kesel said. “Sunlight was streaming in career working for some of the world’s through the window behind the sewing largest ad agencies, the Wisconsin native machine. I made some decisions to came here “to pursue my passion for make the composition more interesting photography.” and suggestive of the time when these Kesel said he started posting images on quarters were occupied by people in Pixoto two years ago “to get evaluations charge of running the mine and assessing from photographers worldwide—not the value of miner’s claims. just locally or nationally.” “First, I opened the chair to suggest He said he has posted some 80 images, someone had been sitting at the sewing garnering “many positive comments from photographers to whom my work had never been exposed in areas of the world where my work was unknown.” “I have attracted followers from Russia, Italy, New Zealand, Germany and even a Syrian photographer who now makes his home in the Netherlands,” he added. “Since starting to compete in this worldwide photography forum, I have also begun to follow other photographers' work for the inspiration it brings to me and the broadened perspective it provides.” Kesel considers his photo career “a lifelong learning process, stimulated by other photographers’ works and by my own experiences in the field.” Kesel holds periodic workshops for people studing photography and is planning to hold two this spring. Information: 480-2167904, dkesel@keselimages.com. (Dale Kesel/Special to AFN)
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FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
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Garage sales offer ‘mindful shopping’ that helps environment By Kelly Athena AFN Contributing Writer
O
n a recent Saturday morning, I followed neon pink signs to a garage sale in a Mountain Park neighborhood. I started chatting with the friendly young man hosting the sale. He was earning money to go back to Arizona State University and finish his sociology degree. “I want to help young people stay away from drugs,” said Jared Hancock, a graduate of Desert Vista High School. I started a pile of things I wanted: two cat toys, a self-help book, green sunglasses, an iPod speaker, batman action figures, four shirts, three pairs of shorts and a gray hoodie with an iPod cord hidden in the pocket and ear buds in the hood. “I’ve worked at Nello’s Pizza for a long time. When I needed to take time off for rehab, Danny and Barbara (the owners) said, 'Take all the time you need.' They treat me like family. Now I’ve been clean for nearly a year." I congratulated him, admiring his
openness and his determination to use his experience to help others. He neatly folded up the clothes, bagged them and brought them to my car without me even asking him. My total: $12, including $1 for each clothing item. Women spend more than eight years of their lives shopping. Shopping malls outnumber high schools. And 93 percent of teenage girls say shopping is their favorite thing to do. Where does all our clothing come from, anyway? Ninety-seven percent of our clothing manufacturing is outsourced to foreign countries, mostly to Asia. The clothing factory workers earn from $2 to $20 per day, working in deplorable conditions for 12 hours a day. Many are forced to See
GARAGE on page 21
(Kelly Athena/Special to AFN)
Jared Hancock, an Ahwatukee resident and a graduate of Desert Vista High School, is hoping to raise enough money to go back to Arizona State University.
Inspire Kids to host ‘Buckaroo Buckeye’ creator for Reading Day AFN News Staff
T
he author of a book on a little nut will help Inspire Kids Montessori and interested people mark World Read Aloud Day Feb. 16. The public is invited to Inspire Kids, 4025 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee, at 10 a.m. Feb. 16 to hear award-winning Scottsdale author Kristin Cetone. Her book, “Buckaroo Buckeye—A Little Nut with Big Dreams,” is the winner of the 2016 OneBookAz and 2013 Mom’s Choice Silver awards. The book, for ages 4-8, “takes children on a magical journey through the eyes of a little buckeye nut that teaches them to “dream, believe and achieve” no matter their size and how to ignore bullies,” according to a release. “Parents are constantly asked to ‘plan’ for things in their lives and the lives of their children…but what about literacy?” Cetone asks on her website, buckaroobuckeye.com. “One of the most important tools to build the path of our life journey of selfdiscovery is literacy: mastery in reading
and writing,” she adds. “Reading success is the foundation to our life successes. Am I saying you can’t have success without reading success? No, but to have sustained growth you need strong literacy skills. Reading lasts for a lifetime.” Inspire Kids founder Diana Darmawaskita said, “We’re excited to bring this important event to our community. Reading is the foundation of academic success.” Cetone, known to her fans as Mrs. C., will be presenting a reading of the book accompanied by a puppet of its main character, Buckaroo Buckeye. The story follows Buckaroo’s fall from a tree in Ohio and his quest to find a new home. As he encounters “bumps and bullies” along the way, the lovable nut learns to believe in himself and persevere until he finds his true place is the world. A retired teacher and reading specialist, Cetone said, “So many children, especially those who struggle to read, are teased and may fall behind in school and lose their confidence. Kids relate
to Buckaroo through its colorful characters and positive messages about self-worth and determination.” She adds that, “Children are not born with a reading gene. It’s so important for parents to read aloud to kids to help them learn vocabulary, syntax and language skills.” World Read Aloud Day was created in 2010 by an international nonprofit, LitWorld, to call global attention to the importance of literacy, reading aloud and sharing stories. The day is now celebrated by millions of people in more than 100 countries. “We’re pleased to be See
INSPIRE on page 21
(Special to AFN)
Valley author Kristin Cetone and her Buckaroo Buckeye will be on hand to greet kids at Inspire Kids Montessori in Ahwatukee.
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
Festival of Lights awards grants to two local charities A AFN News Staff
ll that fun that Ahwatukee residents have at the Festival of Lights Kick-Off Party in November and the Wine & Beer Tasting Festival in April paid off for two local charities recently The Girls Rule Foundation and the YMCA’s Outreach Program for Ahwatukee Seniors each received $3,000 from the Festival of Lights. The Festival of Lights was founded in 1993 as a nonprofit to raise money to fund the annual lighting of the million white lights along Chandler Boulevard during the holiday season. The Wine & Beer Festival and the Kick-Off Party are its two primary fundraisers during the year. For the past 22 years, both events have been organized “by a very substantial network of volunteers,” FoL President Janyce Hazlett said. “Historically, FoL has partnered with local charities that assist us with our events and, in exchange, receive financial support from those events,” she added. “A selection process is held and a decision is
(Special to AFN)
Holding a check for the $6,000 that the Festival of Lights Committee raised for nonprofits Y OPAS and Girls Rule are, from left: Dena Patton, Girls Rule Foundation; Frank Portillo, MidFirst Bank; Sonja Tapley, FOL treasurer; Janyce Hazlett, FOL president; Randy Fitch, FOL VP of logistics; Susan Anderton, FOL secretary, Jill Sears of Y OPAS; and Maureen Holden, MidFirst BanK.
based on both the charity’s purpose and their contribution to the community.” The Girls Rule Foundation, an Ahwatukee-based nonprofit, “is a leader in empowerment, leadership and educational workshops and programs for girls 12-18,” Hazlett said. “Their goal is to help girls build leadership, self-
confidence and bright futures through five educational programs.” Y OPAS, a program of the Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA, is a community effort offering free support services for local seniors and their caregivers. Services are provided by community volunteers who help seniors in
maintaining independent living in their homes. “The FoL has donated a total of $6,000 from the two 2016 events to these wonderful organizations and thank them for all of their assistance and support during the planning and execution of these events,” Halett said. She also thanked MidFirst Bank “for their generous and valuable contribution of volunteers during the Kick-Off event in November.” This year, the FoL is requesting that any organization—not necessarily local— apply to become this year’s beneficiary of its charitable donations. Applicants can go to FOLAZ.org to find the application. It can be completed and mailed or emailed as instructed. The postmarked or emailed deadline is March 1. All applications will be reviewed and final determinations will be made on or before March 24. Information on Y OPAS: valleyymca. org/opas; information on Girls Rule: girlsrulefoundation.org. Festival of Lights, 3961 E. Chandler Blvd #111-363, Phoenix, AZ 85048 www.folaz.org
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cost. Did you know that Goodwill will from page 19 take any used clothing, even if it is retire at age 40 from malnutrition and ripped, buttons missing and stained? They want all clothes except wet, moldy old age. It takes 1,850 gallons of water to ones or those saturated with hazardous process one pair of blue jeans. The rivers materials. Only 20 percent of our donated run blue in denim season. In spring, the clothes are resold water is pink; in in the U.S. There fall, it is brown. are simply way too The textile many clothes to industry is the sell! So, Goodwill second largest and other large polluter of clean donation centers water after sort the clothes for agriculture. The use as rags, stuffing workers living in and insulation, tin shacks near and make the rest the factory cannot into 1,200-pound safely drink the bales. water or grow their They sell the bales own food. to resellers, who All this effort and ship them to South virgin resources America, Africa, used and we only Asia, and Eastern wear 20 percent Europe where of the clothes (Kelly Athena/Special to AFN) they are worn or we own. On top Roberts tries out her new rollerblades. used to make new of that, each Isabelle The rollerblades, skirt, sweater, and helmet were American throws all found at garage sales, costing about $1 each. products. Some people are approximately 80 aghast at wearing pounds of clothing clothes that others have worn. Any into the trash each year. If we quit throwing clothes out, washing machine with some hot water, which release methane as they rot, it detergent and a few drops of tea tree oil would have the same effect on the air as or grapefruit seed extract will sterilize your pre-owned clothes. taking over a million cars off the road. I’d rather get my clothes from a Our shopping choices are extremely powerful. Each and every one of us neighbor than straight from the unfair can make a big difference in the world factories. Let’s build a winning wardrobe while by buying second-hand clothes, or buying from fair trade organizations putting people and the planet above that produce clothing without abusing getting new products at cheap prices. people or the earth. Unfairness will stop The day we win is the day we know we when we stop demanding cheap new are all one. Wishing you happy mindful clothes at any human and environmental shopping.
COMMUNITY
GARAGE
INSPIRE
from page 19
able to share the message of reading and literacy in Ahwatukee with a book that has an important and upbeat message for young children,” says Veronique Bevali, the school’s director. Inspire Kids Montessori, located in the Trader Joe’s Plaza, was founded in 2010. The school, for ages 6 weeks to 6 years,
introduces children to reading, writing, math, science, social skills and manners and practical life skills. Inspire Kids graduates rank in the upper percentile in Terra Nova academic testing nationally. Space is limited. Families should reserve a spot by calling 480-659-9402 or emailing info@inspirekidsmontessori. com. Tours of the campus will be available after the event. Information: inspirekidsmontessori. com.
Do you have Community News? Updates? Write pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com or call 480-898-5647.
This is what memory care is all about.
It’s not to say that dementia isn’t an emotional and challenging disease. It’s just that when you see the human instead of the disease you don’t see sadness. You see life. You see history. You see achievements. You see family. You see love. And that’s how we see it at Hawthorn Court. We can help you with the challenges you’re facing. Please join us for a personal tour. Call 480.359.2898 to schedule.
Join us for an informational event: Behaviors and Communication Learn about typical dementia-related behaviors and practical techniques and communication tips to best re-direct these behaviors. Risen Savior Lutheran Church 23914 S. Alma School Road • Chandler 85248 Friday, February 17th • 1:00pm Please call 480.359.2898 to RSVP
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FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
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FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
St. John Bosco Catholic School students score well with Future City contest A AFN News Staff
team of four boys and a girl at St. John Bosco School in Ahwatukee have their eyes firmly fixed on the future. It already has a foot in it as well. The group of seventh graders placed fourth in the regional Future City Competition, a 25-year-old contest in which students in sixth through eighth grade compete with a 1,500-word essay, a model and an oral presentation on some issue related to sustainability. The students—Louisa Casillas, Michael Lisi, Antonio Ruiz, Roberto Trujillo and Marcelino Yousif— comprised the only Catholic school in the competition, themed “Power of Public Space.” Their essay, virtual city, model and presentation were for a future city called Cosmium Colony—an asteroid mining colony. Mentoring the team were Antonio’s parents, Colleen Ruiz, a civil engineering plans review for the City of Chandler, and Juan Ruiz, an Intel software engineer. The Ruizes moved to Ahwatukee last summer from New Mexico, where Antonio was on a team that placed third in that state’s regional Future City contest. With the blessing of Principal Anita Petitti, the couple met after school with the students, some of whom barely knew each other before bonding through the project. “They didn’t know each other very well at the beginning of the project,” Colleen Ruiz said. “Brainstorming and compromising ideas was challenging. We ended up finding ways to incorporate everyone’s ideas through creative problem solving. By competition time, they had all become good friends and developed some excellent negotiation skills… We give lots of credit to Pete Rodriguez, their speech and debate teacher, for teaching them these skills.” “St. John Bosco only entered one team this year, but we hope to grow the program to involve more students,” she added. “It is a very challenging and fun program.” Her job was to make sure the students stayed on task to complete
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Louisa Casillas of Ahwatukee was the only girl on the St. John Bosco School team that scored well in the competition to build a city of the future. She is flanked by, from left, Michael Lisi, Antonio Ruiz and Roberto Trujillo, all of Chandler, and Ahwatukee resident Marcelino Yousif.
“approximately four pages of scoring rubrics for each five of the components of the project.” She quickly found they took to the assignment with enthusiasm. “Their creativeness and ability to think outside the box blew me away,” Colleen Ruiz said. “I would have never thought to build a space mining colony that gathered valuable minerals from asteroids near Keplar 22B (600 light years from Earth). I asked a lot of questions related to the rubric and they came up futuristic solutions.” The students started doing research in October of 2016. The research paper and virtual city submittal were due in November, and they worked on the model for another two months. The model is 50 inches long by 25 inches wide by 20 inches tall with a wooden frame. It was made largely from recycled materials, including Lego, spare parts, beads, binder clips and a boogie board. “The students used plumbers caulking to make the asteroid and spray painted a lot of things silver,” Colleen Ruiz said. “We bought plastic fish bowls that they decorated as four different bio-domes. The project budget was $100. The team
used a plethora of lights to highlight their important features.” Dubbed “Cosmium Colony,” the model was named in the team’s first meeting. “It turned into our first lesson on compromise,” she said. “Everyone had different ideas but we ended up combining the names of two minerals found on asteroids—cobalt and osmium—to form Cosmium Colony.” It wasn’t just the model that impressed the judges. “I was blown away at their ability to communicate with judges and to think on their feet,” Colleen Ruiz said. “They answered all kinds of questions from judges, ranging from the technical specifications of a spaceship to how dead bodies are disposed of in space. They are all around great kids with bright futures.” And they plan to be back to the future, she added, explaining: “The students are a little competitive and informed the audience of over 1,000 people at ASU that they will be back next year aiming at first place.”
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
Ahwatukee physician named among 10 best practitioners
The American Institute of Family Medicine Practitioners has named Dr. Kevin Chan of Pineapple Health in Ahwatukee one of the this year's 10 best family medicine practitioners for patient satisfaction. The American Institute of Family Medicine Practitioners is a third-party rating organization that bases selections on client and/or peer nominations and evaluation. The group said in a release that it “places the utmost emphasis on selecting practitioners who have achieved significant success in the field of family medicine without sacrificing the service and support they provide.” Info: 480-961-2366, pineapplehealth.org.
Mountain Pointe High offers free concert band show
The public is invited to a free concert featuring concert bands from all six Tempe Union High School District comprehensive high schools at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13, at Mountain Pointe High School, 4201 Knox Road, Ahwatukee.
Tempe Union students to display art at district office
The annual Art 7 show featuring art work
AROUND AHWATUKEE
by students in all seven schools that comprise the Tempe Union High School District runs Feb. 20-April 25 at Tempe Public Library, 3500 S. Rural Road, Tempe. A public reception for the young artists and their teachers will be 4-6 p.m. March 1 at the district offices, 500 W. Guadalupe Road, Tempe.
experience are needed for the dancing classes, which are on Tuesday afternoons and midday Thursdays. Muscle mania classes are on Mondays and Wednesdays. Register in person or at phoenix.gov/PARKS. “Drop In” class option also available Information: 480-221-9090, cmcneish@cox.net, or dancemeetsfitness.net.
Fundraising cocktail party planned to help YMCA
St. Benedict Church prepares for big rummage sale in March
Silent auction items are being sought for a Cocktails for Community fundraiser to be held 5:30-7:30 p.m. March 22 at the Sunset Grill & Patio at the Foothills Golf Club. All proceeds will benefit the Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA’s annual community support campaign, which helps local needy families and seniors. A minimum $25 contribution includes two drinks and appetizers. To donate auction items or buy tickets: Carrie at cmcneish@cox.net or 480-221-9090.
Line dancing classes offered at Pecos Community Center
Carrie McNeish will hold her cardioworkout line dancing and muscle mania classes beginning next week at Pecos Community Center in Ahwatukee. No partners or
The parish of St. Benedict is accepting donations until March 10 for its annual rummage sale. It will be in the courtyard of St. John Bosco Catholic School on South 48th Street south of Chandler Boulevard in Ahwatukee on March 11 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Called the largest rummage sale in Ahwatukee by organizers, it will feature hundreds of quality donated items, including clothing, furniture, electronics and tableware. Donations of all sizes can be dropped off at 16223 S. 48th St., near St. John Bosco. For furniture and other large donations, contact Gayle Siewert at 480-773-5300 to arrange for pick up. Information: stbenedict.org/Rummage Sale. Information: stbenedict.org or facebook. com/ParishofStBenedictinAZ.
Ahwatukee YMCA offers fitness for cancer victims
Livestrong is a free small-group fitness program at the Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA for adult cancer survivors aimed at easing them back into fitness and improve their quality of life. Each 12-week session meets for 75 minutes twice a week and a free YMCA membership for the duration of the program. Class size is limited to six people. Information: Debbie Mitchell at 602-212-6081.
Senior athletes need to register for state games now
Athletes 50 years and older are encouraged to sign up now for the Arizona Senior Games, which kick off the weekend of Feb. 18. Events include: Alpine skiing at Snow Bowl, basketball at Arizona State University Recreation Center, bocce ball at Sun City Grand, handball and racquetball at ASU, and track and field at Seton Catholic High. To register: seniorgames.org and click on 2017 Games, then Registration. Click on Sport Information sheets to find the registration deadline for your sport. Registration is only online. Assistance/ questions: 602-274-7742.
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
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FRIDAY, FEB. 10
Ortiz holds coffee chat
Joseph Ortiz, a Edward Jones financial advisor in Ahwatukee, will host a coffee club for people who want to talk about personal finance issues. DETAILS>> 8:30 a.m., Trattoria D’Amico, 4902 E. Warner Road, Ahwatukee.
SATURDAY, FEB. 11
‘Tooth-rific Family Storytime’ set
Fun stories and songs help kids learn what to expect when books and brushing become part of the bedtime routine. Followed by a raffle, crafts, and FREE kids’ dental screenings provided by Dignity Health. DETAILS>> 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Free. Space is limited and tickets are available at 10 a.m.
Foothills hosts cardiac screening The Anthony Bates Foundation is offering cardiac screenings for people 10 years old and up. The screenings can help prevent sudden cardiac death, especially among teenagers and young adults. The cost of the tests is a fraction of what it would cost with a clinic and it is tax-deductible. Reservations are required. DETAILS>> 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Foothills Golf Club, 2201 E. Clubhouse Drive, Ahwatukee. $65 for students, $85 for adults. Reservations: anthonybates.org, appts@ anthonybates.org, or 602-482-5606.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 16 Learn to line dance
A free Valentines Dance Party at Cactus Jacks will include free line dancing lessons, treats and raffle
prizes. DETAILS>>5-8 p.m., Elliot Road and 48th Street, Ahwatukee. Cactusjacksbar.co or 480-221-9090.
Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. No registration required. haley.dziuk@phoenix.gov.
MONDAYS
SATURDAY, FEB. 18
SATURDAY, FEB. 25
Transportation Day scheduled
The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce networking and leads group is open to chamber members. DETAILS>> Noon, Native Grill and Wings, 5030 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee. Devida Lewis, 480-753-7676.
Learn nail string art
Come make a gorgeous wall ornament using string and nails. All supplies will be provided, though if you have your own preferred tools, you’re welcome to bring them. DETAILS>> 2-4 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Free, adults only. Register in the calendar section at phxlib.org.
South Mountain fete set
Celebrate the first year of the South Mountain Environmental Education Center. Engaging learning activities, themed walks, solar viewing scope, animal encounters and other attractions will be offered. The facility is a hub for guests exploring the park/preserve that it calls home as well as a gathering place for the community to learn about plants, animals, natural history and the conservation needs of the Sonoran Desert. DETAILS>> 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 10409 S. Central Ave., Phoenix. Free. No registration. Details: smeec.org.
TUESDAY, FEB. 21
Writing group to meet
The writing critique group meets the third Tuesday of every month. Writers of all genres and experience levels are invited to bring five pages of double-spaced writing to read out loud for feedback. Extra copies are optional, but helpful. DETAILS>> 6-7:45 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E.
God’s Garden Preschool at Horizon Presbyterian Church will hold its annual Transportation Day, featuring more than 40 vehicles of all descriptions, from garbage and fire trucks to go-karts. Live entertainment, carnival games and other activities for young and old. Vendors and sponsors are being sought now. DETAILS>> 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 1401 E. Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee. Information/vendor registration: Michelle Rhodes at 480-460-0081, directorgodsgarden@ horizonchurch.com or godsgarden.com.
‘Seuss-tastical’ fest slated
Come enjoy Dr. Seuss-themed early literacy and STEAM activities for the whole family at the Seuss-tasical Family Festival.. DETAILS>>10 a.m.-1 p.m., Ironwood Public Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. All ages; no registration required. Free.
SUNDAYS
‘TinkerTime’ open for kids
A makerspace for children to design, experiment, and invent as they explore hands-on STEAM activities through self-guided tinkering. Details>> 1-4 p.m. every Sunday, Ironwood Library 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Ages 6-11. Free; No registration required.
Chamber offers networking
Group aids MS sufferers
This group addresses the informational, emotional and social support needs of the MS community. People with MS, care partners and spouses are welcome. The group mobilizes people and resources to drive research for a cure and to address the challenges people affected by MS. DETAILS>> 10 a.m.-noon, third Monday of each month, Dignity Health Urgent Care Ahwatukee, conference room, 4545 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. Information: Lynn Grant at lgrant3567@yahoo.com or 480-414-7172.
TUESDAYS
Toastmasters sharpen skills
Improve your speaking skills and meet interesting people at Ahwatukee Toastmasters meetings DETAILS>> 6:45-8 a.m at the Dignity Health Community Room, 4545 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee.
Power Partners available
The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce networking and leads group is open to chamber members. DETAILS>> 8-9 a.m., Four Points by Sheraton, 10831 S. 51st St., Ahwatukee. Dorothy Abril, 480-753-7676.
OPINION
FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
Opinion
@AhwatukeeFN |
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@AhwatukeeFN
www.ahwatukee.com
The eyes have it: check out our redesigned website BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
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hose of you who frequent internet news sites may have noticed that some of them change more frequently than the weather. Just after you get accustomed to the look and feel of a site, one day you click on it and Poof! Nothing looks like it did just 24 hours earlier And more often than not, the change is for the worse. The site has been loaded with annoying pop-ups, as well as video commercials that come out of nowhere and that you didn’t ask for. They are as gaudy as a raucous Mardi Gras parade— only less useful. That’s why I am happy to direct you to AFN’s redesigned website, the new ahwatukee.com. Regular visitors may already have noticed it, since we launched on Monday. We didn’t take this transformation lightly. Led by Pablo Pirela, our web project manager, the online team spent months studying different designs for the re-do. They recognized that the recently departed design was showing a little wear and tear with time. However useful it might have been, it no longer had the appeal that any site needs to compete for America’s
eyeballs. At the same time, however, we were not about to jump online with some top-ofthe-head design that we would have to undo, redo and do again because it didn’t work like we thought it would. Instead, Pablo and his team worked patiently over time to create a sleek site that’s as easy to navigate as it is on the eyes. You’ll see our top stories displayed in a much more eye-catching way. We have honed the number of content categories so you don’t risk carpel tunnel syndrome hunting around a long time for stories. And our carefully developed hierarchical structure makes it easier for you to separate the important stories from those you can wait to read when you have more time. Some of you have written to me over the last few months after looking online in vain for stories you first read in the print newspaper. Unlike most newspaper sites, we don’t race onto the internet with everything the paper offers. Nor do we throw it online before it gets into the paper unless it is breaking news that we feel you should know about immediately. Our reason for doing this is simple: we want you to read the newspaper if for no other reason than to help our local business community, many members of which advertise there. Our newspaper advertisers have wisely
picked a medium that people can read at their leisure and notice them. Think about it: how many online ads do your eyes gloss over as you scan a site’s page? An advertiser's message in any newspaper doesn’t jump out at you like a mugger from a dark alley. You aren’t blitzed by flashing ads screaming for your attention and tripping your eyeballs as you try to read a piece. And the ads you do notice and want to study don’t disappear when you accidentally or on purpose flip to an article, then return, only to find them gone. I know I am preaching heresy where the so-called new media are concerned when I extol our print-first strategy. It runs against the grain of the direction most sources of information have taken.
But we want AFN to be enjoyable as much as informative. I cannot count the number of readers who contact me every week to tell me how they like to sit down with their morning coffee or after the dishes are done and leisurely peruse the AFN. Yet, there are many people who have become accustomed to getting their news online. And our newly redesigned site continues to satisfy their demand for news about people and events that are shaping their community. As always, we are always looking for ways to improve both our newspaper and the website. So your comments are not only appreciated but considered seriously. We look forward to your feedback.
Home is the first place to combat sex trafficking BY STACEY PROCTOR AFN Guest Writer
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ou see it on the news and social media—girls as young as 12 years old disappearing. These girls aren’t running away because of a fight with parents or siblings. These girls are being tricked or taken and forced into a world of sex trafficking. In some cases, girls are abducted off the street, but 71 percent of victims have previously met their abductor. Traffickers
will recruit girls at school, malls and online. They look for easy targets: teens that feel isolated, appear vulnerable or don’t have strong relationships with safe adults. Traffickers will often manufacture a friendship or relationship to build trust. That relationship can soon become the most important thing in their lives and eclipse family relationships and other commitments. At other times, traffickers will promise a job making lots of money. How can parents combat the deception
of sex traffickers? Here are three tips. Cultivate a strong relationship. Teens who have a strong relationship with their parents may be less likely to be influenced by traffickers who are looking for girls who are alone or isolated. Parents who are involved in their teen’s life will deter traffickers who may move on to easier targets. Why rules? Teens rarely like rules, but they help keep them safe. Teens need to understand the reasons for rules and what can happen if they aren’t
followed. These include: curfews, staying in groups, checking in, knowing friends, and where they plan to be. Talk about it. Talk about sex trafficking to your teen and show them stories of real people. Many teens are lured away from home with promises of modeling, becoming famous, love or making a lot of money. Traffickers start friendships online, in person or through friends and will often lie about their age. See
SEX TRAFFICKING on page 32
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OPINION
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
LETTERS
True Life’s glossy farm promises are fantasies
Re the big, flashy two-page ad in last week’s Ahwatukee Foothills News with the headline “We Can Do Better Than The Status Quo.” Beware. The company behind the ad is True Life. On their website they identify themselves as “a diversified group of real estate companies whose primary mission is to be a premier provider of lots and land to Americans home builders.” Note that they are “providers of land.” They are not the developers. They are not the builders. True Life is trying to find a buyer, who then can do anything it wants to the land. True Life and any glossy promises they’ve made about Ahwatukee Farms are fantasies. There is no guarantee that any of this will happen once True Life sells the property. Do not give away your consent to change the CC&Rs that now protect The Lakes property. It could end up as Section 8 housing, as vast swaths of apartment buildings, as crammed condos. -Judy Wade
Grade schools teach Communist-inspired principles
Let’s redistribute the wealth. Whoa! What kind of cockamamie idea is that? The idea is being taught in our Arizona schools today. But... but... that’s communism. Yep, and Karl Marx would agree with you 100 percent, and you can rest assured he’d be delighted to know the concept is being discussed in our schools as a viable alternative to capitalism and the Judeo-Christian ethic. Religion is mentioned only because Communism recognizes no religion. So, if students are learning that redistribution of wealth is a good thing, what kind of a freedom-loving nation will you have in the next generation? You can bet freedom will be a lost concept. You get the feeling that socialism is being considered as a replacement for capitalism and the Judeo-Christian ethic. What is to be gained by such a cataclysmic change in our way of life? Well...for one thing, everyone will have an equal amount of wealth. We’ll all enjoy the same life-style. Hey, that’s great! Except that only the politicians
and political leaders will have greater benefits in the form of greater wealth and all that goes with it. That’s the way it is in all totalitarian nations. Control of the people is what grows from the pursuit of socialism and communism. Control of their minds, their vocations, and their futures. You can bet the students aren’t being taught the negative aspects of socialism or communism. All you have to do is to go to your nearest school district and have a téte-a-téte on the subject with the superintendent and the director of curriculum. It won’t take long to see they’re very good dancers. You’ll learn they’re cleverly disguised socialists who may or may not know it. After all, when you’ve been taught the beneficial properties of the socialist way of life most of your life, you don’t know better than to accept it and defend it. Back to school...it’s in the seventh grade that students are being informed about the redistribution of wealth. They see it in American history and in economics. This information comes straight from the current manual on the “Arizona Academic Content Standards,
Social Studies, Articulated by Grade Level.” It’s also in the seventh grade students are informed the United States is an imperialistic nation. Examples of our imperialism are the Panama Canal, the annexation of Hawaii, and the SpanishAmerican War. Regarding the canal, they aren’t told the canal was built by the U. S. with our money and that we leased the canal from Panama for 99 years. Several years ago, the lease expired and the Chinese picked it up. Not a good thing. Students aren’t told that the U. S. came in to settle the Philippine natives in the Spanish-American War or that the annexation of Hawaii was almost at the insistence of the existing Hawaiian government because of problems they were having with the people and the economy. History and economics have become the principle targets of misinformation, disinformation and outright lies about the United States and its relationship to its citizens and to the world. It’s time we the people set the record straight. -Don Kennedy
Choose Kyrene. Your top-rated public school district. Many parents are thankful for the child-focused environment provided in Kyrene classrooms. Our teachers are dedicated professionals who are in education because they care about children and their success. Kyrene outperforms peers in AzMERIT Math and English Language Arts assessments. Attend our “Get Ready for Middle School” Parent Information Night Thursday, February 9 at 6:00 p.m. Kyrene District Office 8700 S. Kyrene Road, Tempe AZ, 85284
Engage with Kyrene Schools on Social Media
www.kyrene.org • Call 480-541-1000
OPINION
FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
County recorder: we’re improving vote time, other public services BY ADRIAN FONTES AFN GUEST COLUMNIST
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s your new Maricopa County Recorder, I am pleased to offer this report about our progress since taking office. During the campaign, we learned about your issues and concerns pertaining to this office and its responsibilities, for recording public documents and the elections processes. In an effort to address your concerns, this is what we are doing and how we are doing it. Our first goal has been to re-establish openness and transparency to this office, based on hearing from you throughout the county that this office has not been very responsive. We are taking immediate steps to fixing this. I hired five people to reach out to the community and rebuild the relationship between the recorder’s office and the residents and voters in the county. We will have five members of this community relations team, each assigned to the county per supervisor district. Two team members work out of our Mesa office, Christine Dyster (District 1) and Peg Kragie, (District 2). Two more at our downtown office; the team leader is Francisco Heredia (District 5), and Chatham Kitz (District 3). A District 4 team member will join the team in a few weeks and this means all of Maricopa will be covered for out-reach. These team members have already met with community groups and participated in local events. Look for them at the next community event you attend. Also, we have embraced the need to restore your faith in our elections processes. Our IT department conducted tests of our networks to ensure they are secure. The first round of testing was successful and while I can’t share the details, we were very pleased with all results.
We are planning to revamp our website for your ease of use. Later this year, we will begin working on a new website to assist those with real estate issues, and for voters to more easily find information they need. We also are working on a new plan to make sure that no one will stand in line for five hours again when voting in Maricopa County. We are working to increase the number of precincts, helping to cut down voting lines and get more people to use mail-in ballots plus, and studying other options to make voting more accessible and easier for all. In the coming weeks, we will be conducting community workshops around the county to hear your thoughts on the elections process and more about how we can improve it. We are also searching for a new permanent elections director. In the meantime, I’ve appointed Rey Valenzuela, our assistant director, as our Interim Director. Rey is a member of the Federal Elections Assistance Commission and widely recognized as a leading expert in elections across the nation. While most people are concerned about elections, of equal importance is the recording function of our office where we record thousands of documents a month for the real estate industry. We are championing a Recorder’s Summit in mid-February with real estate professionals from across the county to establish a discussion on how our office works for them today and what improvements we can make to enhance their business processes and outcomes down the road. To learn more about what actions we take at the Recorder’s Office, check out our Facebook Page. Or join us for our East Valley Community Network Meet and Greet 4-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, at the East Valley Career Center, 735 N. Gilbert Road, Ste 134, Gilbert.
Share Your Thoughts Send your letters on local issues to pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com
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OPINION
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
Maricopa County supervisors chairman outlines budget, Diamondbacks, other goals BY DENNY BARNEY AFN Guest Writer
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s we usher in 2017, there are a lot of new faces in Maricopa County. There also has been a total makeover of the Board of Supervisors in just five years. We recognize change as a challenge, but also, as an opportunity. In my first run as chairman, we invited the elected officials to come together and talk about a shared vision and common goals for the county. As a result, we made progress in the areas of regulatory reform, workplace development, and transparency in the budget. We also introduced a zero-based approach to budgeting. I have the honor of again serving as chairman. Here are a few of my priorities: Budget: The county is a subdivision of the state and we walk a tightrope to manage those mandates while making sure we can be fiscally conservative and financially prudent in everything that we do. Managing your tax dollars is our
number one responsibility and we take it very seriously. We will continue to focus on improving our budget processes and managing the fiscal side of the house. There will be a continued transparency. Regulation: There will always be natural friction between those that are given the authority to regulate and those that are regulated. We will continue to enhance the way we handle the authority, so that families can thrive and businesses can succeed. Criminal justice: Every year we have more than 100,000 people come through the doors of our jails. Of those in custody, many will be back in our jails in 12 months or less. We will continue to explore evidence-based, smart justice initiatives and best practices to limit the number of people returning to jail. Employees: Our 13,000 dedicated employees are the most valuable asset we have. So we want to invest in them with workforce development opportunities, including a new internal training system. Better, happier employees become better,
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Thank You Ahwatukee!
BEST of 2015 Ahwatukee Foothills News
Digital Xrays Implants Itero Digital Cosmetic Services Impressions Emergency Care Invisalign Certified Accepting New Patients 23 Years in the Same Location
from page 29
more effective public servants. Website: Maricopa County will be launching a new website. It will be more user friendly, making it easier to do business with departments. We have also enhanced our open government portion of the website, allowing you to find documents and information more easily. Diamondbacks: We have our work cut out for us with recent events surrounding Chase Field. The Diamondbacks are a great asset to the downtown community, the county and the state and we want them to keep playing at Chase Field through the end of the original term. It’s best for the community. It’s best for taxpayers’ investment. We believe it’s also best for the Diamondbacks. As you can see there’s a lot to celebrate and a lot more work to do at Maricopa County. I thank you for the opportunity to start another term as your county supervisor. I will work hard to make 2017 a productive year for Maricopa County.
Most teens think sex trafficking only happens in faraway places or to other people. The Federal Bureau of Investigation estimates that 100,000 children and young women ranging in age from ages 9 to 19 are trafficked in America each year—with the average age of 11. You can join the Catholic Charities community helping sex trafficked survivors and combating trafficking of vulnerable teenagers. For more information or to become involved: Tami Hartman at THartman@cc-az. org. -Stacey Proctor is a spokeswoman for Catholic Charities. Catholiccharitiesaz.org.
Share Your Thoughts: Send your letters on local issues to: pmaryniak@ ahwatukee.com
-Denny Barney chairs the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors
st 1 PLACE
COMING
February 23!
BEST of 2015 Ahwatukee Foothills News
Your comprehensive guide to the 2017 Cactus League Spring Training Season!
Foothills Family Dental P.C.
SEX TRAFFICKING
H Full Team Schedules
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H Guides to Shopping, Dining, Drinking, Golf, Area Attractions & More!
Dr. Anita Marra
480-460-0484 www.foothillsfamilydental.com
1238 E. Chandler Blvd. • Ste. #101, Phoenix, AZ 85048 Located on the corner of Chandler Blvd & Desert Foothills Pkwy.
Plus! H Special Commemorative Section featuring the 2016 Chicago Cubs World Series Champs!
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Visit www.phoenix.org after February 23 to see the digital copy
Real Estate Guide 2017 is poised to be the best year to sell a home AFN NEWS SERVICES
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hwatukee residents who have been sitting on the fence about selling their home might just want to hop off. Realtor.com says 2017 is poised to be the year of the home seller. “Sellers have been in the driver’s seat for the last two years, but this year is shaping up to be even better for several reasons,” said the site’s chief economist, Jonathan Smoke. “Nothing is bad for sellers today.” A combination of factors is coming together to make 2017 a prime seller’s
market for most of the nation, according to the website. Mortgage rates are still low, and that translates to lower monthly costs. Lower costs entice buyers, which is good for sellers. Although mortgage rates have been ticking up since mid-October to slightly over 4 percent, the rates for a 30-year fixed mortgage—the most popular home loan—are still hovering near 30-year lows. For now. “We expect them to hold at this 4 See
BEST YEAR on page RE5
Fabulous custom estate on private, huge 56,000+sqft hillside lot in the pristine community of Ahwatukee Custom Estates.
Bonny Holland
$1,035,000
See Page 6
SPOTLIGHT TLIGHT home
This exquisite remodeled tri level allows for a comfortable yet luxurious family lifestyle in the sought after Master Plan community of Mountain Park Ranch.
Listed for $485,000
Donna Leeds
See Page 6
Inviting territorial single-level custom home with circular drive, front courtyard and side-entry garage.
Listed for $675,000
Mike Mendoza
See Page 6
Ahwatukee’s #1 Team for Over 28 Years 480-706-7234
The Foothills - Front
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Stunning mountain views from hillside lot. 4 br, 2.5 ba with 2,801 sq. ft. Spacious open floor plan with downstairs office and Plantation shutters. New appliances including refrigerator, dishwasher, range/oven, washer, dryer and water heater. Private backyard on preserve with gated pool. Walking distance to shopping, hiking and park.
Listed for $415,000
Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated
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Mountain Park Ranch - Front
Mike Mendoza
Mountain Park Ranch -Back
Impeccable T.W. Lewis home with 5 br, 3 ba and 3,076 sq. ft. Spacious eat-in kitchen features black granite countertops and black appliances. One bedroom and full bath down with master suite and three secondary bedrooms upstairs. Resort-style backyard replete with amazing built-in kitchen, fire pit with seating, salt water pool and above ground spa.
Listed for $419,500
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REAL ESTATE
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
It’s still a good time to buy a home in Ahwatukee STACEY LYKINS AFN Guest Writer
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(Special to AFN)
This home on South Tuzigoot Street appears to have commanded the top sold price in Ahwatukee in January at $699,000, according to mls.com data.
Top sold price for Ahwatukee home in January apparently $699,000 AFN NEWS STAFF
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he first month of the year apparently saw no luxury homes in Ahwatukee going into the hands of a new owner. Confirming predictions by some experts that the market for homes priced at $1 million or more might be sluggish for at least a while, data on mls.com indicate that the highest sold price for an Ahwatukee home in January apparently was $699,000 for a house at 11815 S. Tuzigoot St. The nearly 4,500-square foot, fivebedroom and five-bath home last sold
less than four years ago for $910,000, according to mls.com. That sold price was more than 40 percent higher than the $640,000 it sold for in 2002, data show. With fireplaces in the living room, family room and master bedroom, the two-story home also is located on a large cul de sac lot with mountain views and a patio, garden, pool and full outdoor kitchen. Besides attached guest quarters with a kitchen and secluded patio of its own, the house also is equipped with a temperature-controlled wine room and bar.
ast year proved to be good for the real estate market. Stacie Lykins It was very strong for home sales and even though mortgage rates increased after the election, they are still at historic lows. So, what does 2017 have in store for the market? This year should bring a normalized housing market, providing a healthy number of sales and price growth. There are a few things that could negatively affect the 2017 market. Credit is still tight, although that might change with the new administration. There is limited inventory, and prices could rise and create an affordability issue. There is high demand for moderately priced houses that appeal to both firsttime buyers and baby boomers, who want to have a right-sized house for aging in place. This can be seen here in the Ahwatukee Foothills area with most homes under $250,000 selling same day, if they are move-in ready and priced properly. When it comes to buying real estate, most people should still consider it a long-term hold with a great tax writeoff, forced savings plan and long-term appreciation. Home appreciation has historically been a way to help build wealth.
Timing of the housing market can be very stressful. So, as long as you take a long-term view and approach to home buying, you should be buying now. You cannot expect 20 percent growth annually, but you should be able to expect single-digit growth. If you consider current market forecasts, it’s wise for prospective home buyers to think about purchasing relatively soon because mortgage interest rates remain low and housing price are rising. First-time buyers should especially considering a purchase now because most are paying high rents and need the tax write-offs that come with owning a home. Rental affordability is one of the biggest factors driving first-timers into the market. With rates at historic lows, buyers may be able to find a home with a monthly mortgage payment that is less than or equal to rent. If you are still on the sidelines of the housing market, today’s mortgage rates make it a good time to finally enter. Rates are low, which has maintained home affordability despite rising prices. Check your home buying-eligibility. There’s no obligation to continue once you determine your qualification status. -Reach Ahwatukee resident and Realtor Stacey Lykins of West USA at 602-6169971, S.Lykins@LykinsProperties.com or LykinsProperties.com.
Fannie Mae deepens credit history checking AFN NEWS SERVICES
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f you feel like you’ve been managing your debt just fine, making the minimum payment on your credit cards on time every month, Realtor.com suggests you might want to change your ways before applying for a home loan. Fannie Mae, which offers governmentbacked loans to more than a quarter of mortgage applicants nationwide, has revised its risk assessment software to factor in more details about how borrowers pay off their debts. Historically, the credit report generated by Fannie Mae—and scrutinized by lenders—mainly showed how much of your available credit you’d used and whether you’d made your monthly payments on time. But the newest version of Fannie’s
Desktop Underwriter softwarekicks things up a notch. Now, it also details just how much you coughed up each month over the past two years—whether you’re parting with only the minimum, laying out the full month or hovering somewhere in between. Fannie officials say so-called “trended credit data,” can help lenders better assess how well people manage their debts—and, consequently, how well they’ll manage their mortgage payments. “Generally, the new underwriting model gives weight to how borrowers pay off their credit debt,” said David Reiss, research director at the Center for Urban Business Entrepreneurship at Brooklyn Law School. “While it is not clear how finely tuned the new system is, there is clearly a move toward a more granular approach to debt repayment.”
So far, FICO and other credit score measures aren’t factoring in this extra info, so your score won’t get dinged. But an application could be affected in another way. “If you compare two people with exactly the same credit profiles except that one pays more than the minimum amount due or the entire balance, that person would be considered to be a lower credit risk by Fannie Mae,” said Reiss. “As a result, that person would be more likely to be approved for a mortgage.” People might not have to pay much more than the minimum to boost your chances of getting that loan. “At this time it’s unclear what impact to mortgage scoring and automated underwriting the payment history will have, but we believe anyone paying 30
percent or more of their balance monthly will see improvement,” said San Diego loan officer Michael Rosenbaum. People who pay off the whole balance every month will be favored even more, and with good reason. “Research has indicated that borrowers who paid off their credit card debt every month are 60 percent less likely to become delinquent than borrowers who make only the monthly minimum payment,” Rosenbaum added. It could be helpful if you had some credit blemishes in your past. “Paying more than the minimum due will particularly help borrowers with delinquencies on their credit report, because it will allow borrowers to ‘demonstrate that a late payment was not deeply reflective of their general debt repayment ability,” Reiss noted.
REAL ESTATE
FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
Headline
BY CHRISTIE ELLIS AFN Guest Writer
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have a few things to share with you this month about the real Christie Ellis estate market in 2017, and the tax deductions that every homeowner should remember when preparing their return this year. As we head into February, 2017 is starting to look like a good year. Here are some reasons for optimism: • Maricopa County has had an increase in sales over the last month and a surprising increase in inventory. • We still have a three to four-month supply but at least buyers now have more options available. • Ahwatukee has 321 actives homes listed. • In Ahwatukee, the median value has not changed much in the past year. We have been steady at $300,000.Just a reminder that the South Mountain Freeway is still causing buyers to hesitate buying too far west, which is where a large portion of higher-priced houses are. The golf course issue at Club West is also a consideration when someone is buying. • We see a very high 97.5 percent percent of list price to sold price. • Most buyers looking right now want to do very little to their home. It may be worth putting the money into updating your property. If not, then market to people who do fix and flips. • The rental market continues to stay strong. Renters are seeing they have to act quickly if they see a property they are interested in. If you are a landlord, short-term rentals for people who sold their home and need temporary housing and those that allow pets do very well.
The National Association of Realtors HouseLogic wrote a wonderful list of items homeowners should remember. Mortgage Interest Deduction. One of the neatest deductions itemizing homeowners can use is the mortgage interest deduction. Your mortgage must be secured by your home—and your home can be a house, trailer or boat, as long as you can sleep in it, cook in it and it has a toilet. If you take on a second mortgage, home equity loan or home equity line of credit to improve your home or to buy or build a second home, that counts towards the $1 million limit. If you use loans secured by your home for other things—like sending your kid to college—you can still deduct the interest on loans up $100,000 ($50,000 for married filing separately) because your home secures the loan. Prepaid Interest Deduction. Prepaid interest (or points) you paid when you took out your mortgage is generally 100 percent deductible in the year you paid, it along with other mortgage interest. If you refinance your mortgage and use that money for home improvements, any points you pay are also deductible in the same year. Property tax. You can deduct the real estate property taxes you pay. Mortgage insurance. You can deduct the cost of private mortgage insurance (PMI) as mortgage interest. The change only applies to loans taken out in 2007 or later. The premium can be deducted if your income is less than $100,000 (or $50,000 for married filing separately). If your adjusted gross income is more than $100,000, your deduction is reduced by 10 percent for each $1,000 that your adjusted gross income exceeds $100,000.
PROVEN. The Tompkins Team
Riley, Coleen, Ron and Drew www.TompkinsAZHomes.com Each office is independently owned and operated.
480.706.7259
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Bill Watson
Gets Results. Top 1% of Agents in Arizona.
THE Hardest Working Real Estate Professional.
I CAN SELL YOURS TOO! Fox Crossing
$349,900
Villas at Desert Park Village
$415,000
The Foothills
$464,900
Thunder Mountain
$699,000
Here it is! Single level, 4 bedroom, split floor plan, pool and 3 car garage sitting on an North-South lot just steps away from park! Light and bright with separate living and family room. Large eat-in kitchen with breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, built-in microwave. Tile floors, plantation shutters, neutral colors. Large master bedroom and bathroom with separate shower/tub and huge walk in closet. Nice covered patio facing North overlooking cute play pool. Over sized secondary bedrooms, inside laundry and cabinets in the garage and beautiful landscaping. Steps away Basha elementary. Don’t miss this home! If you show it, you will sell it! Your invitation has arrived! Pristine mountain views surround this beautiful DC Ranch townhome in a gated community! Wonderful open floor plan with 2 bedrooms + den is an interior lot end unit! Masterfully upgraded kitchen offers stainless steel appliances, granite counters & backsplash, custom cabinets and a raised breakfast bar where guests can easily chat with the chef! Grand staircase with handsome wood and wrought iron railing leads to the master suite with sitting area, walk in closet, relaxing spa like bath and an exit to the private balcony with spectacular views. Plenty of community amenities in this well maintained subdivision! 38 homes in the Villas share a heated community pool and the Desert Camp Community Center with lap pool, fitness center, tennis courts and play ground.
Wow! Don’t miss this 3311 square foot 4 bedroom plus game room and bonus room that can easily be 5th bedroom downstairs with 3.5 Bathrooms! Sitting in a cul-de-sac! New kitchen remodel 2012 with upgraded raised cabinets, granite counters and stainless steel appliances! Slate floors, upgraded custom paint. Large open kitchen area to family room has 20 foot ceilings, two way fireplace to huge game room. Large master upstairs with walk out deck to amazing mountain and city light views. More mountain preserve across the street from the home! Backyard oasis with built-in bbq, out door custom fireplace and spa. Wood blinds and sunscreens throughout. 2 15 Seer a/c units installed 12/14. This home is a 10! If you show it, you will sell it!
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KELLER WILLIAMS® REALTY
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**CHECK OUT THE VIRTUAL TOUR** Outstanding Home in the Gated Community of Thunder Mountain Estates! Nestled on over an acre of land with private courtyard entry. Dramatic soaring beamed ceilings, soothing interior palette, two story stone fireplace, built-in entertainment wall, upgraded lighting, and beautiful tile floor. French doors to patio and plush carpet in all the right places. Stunning granite counters, breakfast bar, SS/black appliances, and plethora of wood cabinetry in gourmet kitchen. Private Den and amazing loft area with endless possibilities. Romantic fireplace in master retreat with patio access, walk-in closet, and spa-like en suite. Bonus Sauna Room! Enjoy the backyard sparkling pool with fountain, spa, majestic Saguaros, covered patio, and natural desert views.
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REAL ESTATE
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
BEST YEAR
Ahwatukee homes sold 85044 $149,900 $155,500 $165,500 $176,000 $195,000 $195,000 $200,000 $217,000 $220,000 $228,000 $228,500 $235,000 $235,000 $237,000 $240,000 $245,000 $250,000 $252,500 $255,000 $260,000 $268,000 $275,000 $277,900 $285,000 $308,000 $309,900
4835 E. McNeil St. 4912 E. Magic Stone Drive 11406 S. Tawa Lane 4840 E. Mineral Road 13044 S. 46Th St. 4347 E. Yowy St. 4205 E. Winnetka Drive 4043 E. Shomi St. 12819 S. 40th Place 4716 E. Euclid Ave. 4026 E. Hano St. 4110 E. Tamaya St. 10028 S. 46th Way 3934 E. Park Ave. 10628 S. 44th St. 3907 E. Kent Drive 4942 E. Lake Point Court 11440 S. Pawnee Circle 14849 S. 46th Place 15440 S. 38th St. 14474 S. Cholla Canyon Drive 4950 E. Paseo Way 4522 E. Rock Wren Road 14452 S. 41st Way 4352 E. Cherokee St. 4434 E. Dry Creek Road
$333,900 $440,000 $479,000 $657,500 $680,000 $699,000
85045 $253,500 $295,000 $315,000 $319,000 $329,000 $377,000 $505,000
85048 $166,000 $225,000 $238,000 $245,000 $269,900 $272,000 $286,500 $287,500 $303,000 $310,000
15252 S. 40th Place 9227 S. 47th Place 3708 E. Dakota Dr. 11832 S. Warpaint Dr. 3407 E. Equestrian Trail 11815 S. Tuzigoot Court 1645 W. Satinwood Drive 1823 W. Brookwood Court 16816 S. 27th Lane 15839 S. 18th Lane 2938 W. Silver Fox Way 1310 W. Thunderhill Drive 1709 W. Ashurst Drive
$330,000 $340,000 $342,500 $348,900 $399,900 $420,000 $425,000 $490,000 $503,500 $582,000
16013 S. Desert Foothills Pkwy. 719 E. Goldenrod St. 16236 S. 13th St. 4430 E. Amberwood Drive 17020 S. 27th Place 16032 S. 24th Place 2747 E. Cathedral Rock Drive 3216 E. Nighthawk Way 4345 E. Mountain Vista Drive 2423 E. Cathedral Rock Drive
BONNY HOLLAND
Ahwatukee Resident Since 1992 WHISTLING ROCK
NEW LISTING!
3,173sqft, 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom. Stunning upgraded hillside T.W. Lewis nestled in the mountainous gated community of Whistling Rock.
$750,000
3214 E Tere Street
16221 S Mountain Stone Trail
NEW LISTING!
3,229sqft, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom. Stunning hillside custom home in the secluded golf course gated community of Canyon Verde.
4222 E Rock Wren Road
NEW LISTING!
2,832sqft, 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom. Beautiful upgraded single family home in the desirable community of Mountain Park Ranch.
16232 S 1st Street
SOLD!
2,401sqft, 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom. Beautiful single level with front to back mountain views in the highly sought neighborhood of Horizon Heights in the Foothills Club West.
$399,900
$385,000
$799,900
CANYON RESERVE
CANYON VERDE
HORIZON HEIGHTS
MOUNTAIN PARK RANCH
CANYON VERDE
14228 S 2nd Street
THE FOOTHILLS
TAPESTRY CANYON
NEW LISTING!
3,917sqft, 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom. Fabulous custom estate on private, huge 56,000+sqft hillside lot in the pristine community of Ahwatukee Custom Estates.
$1,035,000
Each Keller Williams Office is Independently Owned and Operated
16471 S Mountain Stone Trail
NEW LISTING!
3,302sqft, 4 bedroom, 3.75 bathroom. Beautiful hillside single level Forte golf course lot home with stunning views!
$799,900
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spades—for residential real estate. When existing-home price in November 2016 recovered enough equity to be able to inventory shrinks, available homes was $234,900, up 6.8 percent from afford to sell,” said Colby Sambrotto, become more valuable. That’s a good November 2015, when it was $220,000, president and CEO of USRealty.com. thing for sellers. according to the NAR. That was the Job markets are strengthening, which In 2007, just before the housing 57th consecutive month of year-over-year also helps sellers. crash, existing home inventory peaked gains. As unemployment decreases and wages at 4.04 million homes for sale, increase, consumer confidence will according to NAR data. Fastclimb. Increased confidence will spur forward to November 2016: There buyers to jump into the market. were only 1.85 million homes for These pieces of the puzzle create a sale, 9.3 percent lower than the “virtuous cycle,” Smoke said. It’s not a year before—and a whopping 54 term he coined, but it’s one he hasn’t percent lower than the 2007 peak. had a chance to use in many years. “Quite simply, sellers this year “These things are all connected,” have the least competition,” Smoke Smoke said. “If people are confident, said. they’re more likely to buy big-ticket Not only are there fewer homes items like houses and cars. And then for sale, but the time those homes they spend more money on other have spent on the market has things. It reinforces the economy, (Special to AFN) decreased year over year as well. If creating a virtuous cycle.” priced correctly, the typical home The seller’s market for homes may reach a peak in 2017. The only ‘bad’ news for sellers? should move quickly, Smoke said. People who sell their home today And that’s another boon for sellers. Higher prices particularly benefit the mostly likely will buy another. “Many potential sellers don’t want to seller whose property value plunged Then, all the economic factors that think about having to prep a home for during the recession, sometimes to less worked in their favor as a seller will work showings and deal with an indefinite than he owed. against them as a buyer. period of having to keep things in perfect Thanks to rising prices, many Sellers have a few options. They can rent shape,” he said. “Fast-moving inventory homeowners whose property was for a while, and hope that prices come limits that pain.” underwater can now sell without suffering down in the future. A third reason in sellers’ favor is that a big loss. But whatever they save on the price home prices are rising. “2017 will be a rare ‘balanced market’ of a house could be surrendered when Lower inventory and greater demand for buyers, because even though mortgage mortgage rates climb to 6 percent—as have pushed up home prices. The median rates are edging up, many sellers have predicted for 2019 and 2020, Smoke said.
Top Producer in Ahwatukee 2016
Leading Luxury Home Experts AHWATUKEE CUSTOM ESTATES
from page RE 1
percent level for a while and continue to adjust up,” said Danielle Hale, managing director of housing research for the National Association of Realtors. “Mortgage rates rarely move in a straight line,” she noted. “They could be in the 4.6 percent to 4.8 percent range by the end of the year.” What does that have to do with home sellers? Well, potential buyers who are armed with that knowledge might hustle to close on a home before a rate hike. What if a homeowner is nowhere near ready to put their house on the market? That’s OK, Realtor.com advises. Even if rates nudge up by the end of 2017, they’re still expected to be low enough to seduce buyers. The tipping point is when rates reach 5 percent, experts say. That’s when they could put the brakes on the robust real estate market. “If they go above 5 percent, we’re going to see home prices come down,” said Trevor Levin, a real estate agent with Nourmand & Associates in Los Angeles. Another reason is shrinking inventory. Remember in Econ 101, which teaches that low supply and high demand lead to rising prices? The same is true—in
16219 S. 12th Place 3143 E. Windmere Drive 3119 E. Windmere Drive 4210 E. Liberty Lane 16232 S. 1st St. 2463 E. Rocky Slope Drive 3105 E. Muirwood Drive 3543 E. Amberwood Drive 1802 E. Brookwood Court 3376 E. Tanglewood Drive
REAL ESTATE
FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
14037 S Rockhill Road
NEW LISTING!
Incredible hillside custom estate on massive 103,000sqft lot in highly sought after gated community, Canyon Reserve.
$1,575,000
1802 E Desert Willow Drive
1318 E Cathedral Rock Drive
FEATURED LISTING!
FEATURED LISTING!
5,090sqft, 4 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom. Incredible hillside custom estate with Guest House on huge .78 acre lot in the luxurious mountainside gated community of Tapestry Canyon.
$1,349,000
B onny@LeadingLuxur yExper ts.com • w w w.LeadingLuxur yE xper ts.com • 602.369.1085
2,236sqft, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom. Beautiful single family home with panoramic mountain views.
$299,900
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REAL ESTATE
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
SPOTLIGHT TLIGHT home
Exquisite remodeled tri-level This exquisite remodeled tri level with 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths with double vanities original design by ‘’JAMES’’ allows for a comfortable yet luxurious family lifestyle. This popular floor plan features a new roof, welded steel & cable stair railings. Entrance foyer has dual travertine walls. The kitchen cabinets are soft drawer, soft close, espresso Birchwood, dove tail construction. Upstairs, the master suite is designed with a barn door leading to a 50 sq ft custom shower, double vanity, granite all around. This home is located in the sought after Master Plan community of Mountain Park Ranch featuring three community swimming pools, tennis courts, golf courses, hiking trails, & walking paths. Close to award winning schools, golf courses, shopping, fine dining. Easy access to freeway.
Offered for $485,000
Donna Leeds (949) 310-5673 www.BestAgentWUSA.com Equestrian Estates
15003 S 7th Street This fabulously appointed home offers a premium level of privacy, elegance and lifestyle, with ready access to amenities of city life. Strategically positioned to border the natural open space of the surrounding South Mountain Preserve allowing for stunning mountain views of the desert canyons. This amazing site has a circular driveway, Porte-Cochere and RV gate to access the over 56,00sqft property. With more than 120k in recent upgrades, this beautiful 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom home boasts with Gourmet Kitchen complete with beautiful cabinetry, granite counters and stainless Wolf, Bosch and Subzero apps. Large open formal dining room and family room with high ceilings, new flooring, stone and wood fireplace offers a great entertaining area with views of the resort style back yard and desert mountain back drop. Off the family is an oversized Media room with plenty of room for watching movies with the family or game day with your friends! Large master suite with private patio access and sitting room with stunning views. Master bathroom with dual sinks, large tub, walk-in shower and large walk-in closet. Spacious secondary bedroom and bathrooms are great for raising any family. The entertainer’s dream resort style back yard complete with new travertine decking throughout, built-in BBQ with outdoor dining area, bar area, custom spa, play pool with water feature, large grass area on side yard all surround by lush mature desert landscape and stunning private views of the South Mountain Preserve. Spacious workshop off of garage. Granite counters and custom cabinetry in the inside laundry. This home is truly one of a kind!
Inviting territorial single-level custom home with circular drive, front courtyard and side-entry garage. 4 br, 2.5 ba with 2,955 sq. ft. Updated kitchen features granite countertops, large island, pull-out cabinetry, wine cooler and bar sink. Beautiful hardwood flooring plus stackedstone fireplace. Spacious master suite boasts sitting area, walk-in closet with custom oak cabinetry, crown molding, travertine flooring plus walk-in shower in remodeled bathroom. Anderson windows and doors with wood blinds and Plantation shutters. A/C and roof 2012. Exterior paint 2015. Outdoor lighting 2016. Private backyard with lush tropical landscaping, outdoor kitchen with island, mountain-view deck and custom play pool with sheer water descent and spa. Listed for $675,000
Listed for $1,035,000
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Bonny Holland
KELLER WILLIAMS® REALTY
602.369.1085 • www.LeadingLuxuryExperts.com
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SONORAN LIVING
SONORAN LIVING
KELLER WILLIAMS® REALTY
Mike Mendoza
480.706.7234 • www.MendozaTeam.com
REAL ESTATE
FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
Local Realtors belong to Tukee Sisters in Business AFN NEWS STAFF
T
ukee Sisters in Business, a network group for women entrepreneurs in Ahwatukee counts several Realtors in its ranks. Here is a look at them. REBE HOMES TEAM Realtor: Melinda Chester Contact info: melinda@Rebehomes. com, rebehomes.com. Hours: Flexible. Started: 2016. What do you do? “We specialize in residential real estate: buying, selling, renting, short sales and real estate investments.” What Ahwatukee residents will like: “We believe that our clients deserve to have the most skilled consultant, negotiator, and overseer of the details representing them at all times.” GOODWIN & MILLER HOMESTART ELITE Realtor: Gretchen Goodwin and Marci Miller Contact info: Gretchen Goodwin 480600-8972; Marci Miller 480-229-8822 , GoodwinMiller.com. Hours: Flexible. Started: 2009. What do you do? “We help people transition to the next chapter of their life…upsizing or downsizing their homes.” What Ahwatukee residents will like: “Goodwin & Miller pride ourselves on doing what it takes to make our clients happy. We realize everyone’s situation is different. We make sure we understand your goals by taking the time to find out what is important to you.” HOMESMART Realtor: Cindy Sarjeant Contact info: 480-205-8795, SarjSellsAZHomes@gmail.com, SarjSellsAZHomes.com. Open: 24/7. Started: 2002. What do you do? “I sell the American Dream—homes.” What Ahwatukee residents will like: “I can help them sell and or buy their biggest purchase, in a professional manner, for the most return on your investment.”
LOOK2BROOKE GROUP Realtor: Brooke Bogart (Realtor, Architect). Contact info: 2077 E. Warner Road, 602-509-5533, Look2Brooke.com, azbrookerealtor@gmail.com Hours: Flexible. Started: 2012. What do you do? “We are Realtors specializing in the Ahwatukee, South Tempe, and North Chandler markets. We are all about community, bringing people together through contribution and working to create awareness of other local, small businesses in our area.” What Ahwatukee residents will like: “We are part of your community and believe in building relationships first which, we hope, develops a level of sincerity and trust between us and whomever invites us into their circle of influence.” WEST USA REALTY Realtor: Marcela Grace Realtor: Marcela Grace Moat . Contact info: 4505 E. Chandler Blvd, 480-313-7090, marcela@marcelagrace. com, www.marcelagrace.com. Hours: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. (or when necessary) Started: 1998 What do you do? “Real Estate for buyers and sellers.” What Ahwatukee residents will like: “ I think Ahwatukee residents will like knowing that I am a proud resident of Club West, and am very familiar with the area and all that it has to offer.” LOOK2BROOKE GROUP AT KELLER WILLIAMS EAST VALLEY Realtor: Brooke Bogart, Realtor, architect Contact info: 2077 E Warner Road, 602-509.5533, Look2Brooke.com, azbrookerealtor@gmail.com. Started: 2012. “Prior to that, I practiced architecture for almost 20 years.” What do you do? “We are Realtors specializing in the Ahwatukee, South Tempe, and North Chandler markets. We are all about community, bringing people together through contribution and working to create awareness of other local, small businesses in our area. We believe in Ahwatukee so much that we bought a website to support it: parkbench.com/ne-ahwatukee.”
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Ahwatukee’s #1 Team for Over 28 Years
480-706-7234 NG MI ON O C SO
Mike Mendoza
www.MendozaTeam.com S
D OL
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Ahwatukee Custom Estates
Ahwatukee
Great single-level brick home. 3 br, 2.5 ba with hardwood flooring. Oversized 2-car garage with large work area and separate air conditioned work room. New fireproof roof.
Call for List Price
Great updated single level on large corner lot. 3 br, 2 ba with 1,182 sq. ft. Remodeled kitchen features mocha cabinetry, composite sink plus fixtures, butcher block island and custom lighting. 2011 bathroom updates. 18x13 bonus room that is not included in square footage.
The Foothills
Mountain Park Ranch
Stunning mountain views from hillside lot. 4 br, 2.5 ba with 2,801 sq. ft. Spacious open floor plan with downstairs office and Plantation shutters. New appliances including refrigerator, dishwasher, range/oven, washer, dryer and water heater. Private backyard on preserve with gated pool. Walking distance to shopping, hiking and park.
Impeccable T.W. Lewis home with 5 br, 3 ba and 3,076 sq. ft. Spacious eat-in kitchen features black granite countertops and black appliances. One bedroom and full bath down with master suite and three secondary bedrooms upstairs. Resort-style backyard replete with amazing built-in kitchen, fire pit with seating, salt water pool and above ground spa.
Listed for $415,000
S
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Listed for $228,500
Listed for $419,500
!!
Mountain Park Ranch
Club West
Hillside lot with privacy of mountain preserve. 5 br, 3 ba with 3,546 sq. ft. Spacious open kitchen with adjacent family and formal dining room. Downstairs master and secondary bedroom. Great backyard amenities including fenced pool and spa, built-in fire pit and grass area.
Recently updated on golf course lot. 5 br plus media room, 3 ba with 3,829 sq. ft. Open kitchen with granite countertops and custom island with gas cooktop. Inviting stone-accented wet bar and fireplace in family room. New carpet, interior and exterior paint. Resort-style backyard features Pebble Tec pool and spa with waterfall, built-in BBQ and lush landscaping.
Listed for $517,500
Listed for $520,000
Equestrian Estates
Equestrian Estates
Amazing sunset and mountain views from updated single level. 4 br, 3 ba with 3,056 sq. ft. Spacious eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Zebrawood plank tile and wood flooring. Resort-style backyard with retractable door, multiple fire pits with seating, diving pool with waterfall, built-in BBQ with bar, in-ground trampoline and tropical landscaping.
Inviting single level with circular drive, courtyard and side entry garage. 4 br, 2.5 ba with 2,955 sq. ft. Kitchen features granite countertops, pullout cabinetry, wine cooler and bar sink. Private backyard with lush tropical landscaping and custom play pool with sheer descent and spa.
Listed for $649,000
Listed for $675,000
www.MendozaTeam.com Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated
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REAL ESTATE
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
ING
D PEN
OPINION
FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
33
Federal consumer bureau has Schmuck assails former opponent’s fought scams that hurt people education proposals in legislature BY DIANE E. BROWN AFN Guest Writer
A
ccording to the law, banks have to ask their customers a simple question before enrolling them in an overdraft “protection” program: if you do not have enough money in your bank account to cover the cost of a purchase, do you want your bank to decline the purchase or do you want your bank to cover the purchase and charge you $35 for the privilege. Instead, TCF National Bank, which has branches in Mesa and Tempe, did everything it could to obscure the option, suggesting to new account holders that they had no choice but to enroll, according to a recent lawsuit filed by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The lawsuit alleges that this was no accident. Overdraft fees are big money— about $182 million for TCF. Investigating and ending these kinds of scams is a major piece of the CFPB’s portfolio. Since it got up and running in 2011, the CFPB has been under almost nonstop assault, with Wall Street banks, payday lenders and their congressional allies promoting a seemingly endless series of measures to undermine its effectiveness. While we do not yet know how aggressive President Trump will be in going after the CFPB, a number of his advisers and appointees clearly feel emboldened to move ahead with plans to severely weaken this agency and undo key pieces of its work. The attempts to gut the CFPB are in no way justified by its record.
The CFPB has banned some of the worst tricks and traps of mortgage lenders; taken action against sales of fraudulent add-on products by big credit card companies; crafted proposals to curb the abusive practices of payday lenders and debt collectors; and used its enforcement authority to protect the public both against widespread wrongdoing by big banks like Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, and Wells Fargo. It also has acted against scams perpetrated by smaller players like debt collectors, check cashers and bogus “credit repair” services that charge upfront fees for help that is never delivered. In keeping with its mandate from Congress, the CFPB has also championed the rights of military service members, student loan borrowers and seniors, and has partnered with libraries, community service providers and others to provide consumers with better information when they are making complicated financial decisions. In addition, the CFPB has created a complaint system to help consumers get answers or financial compensation if they believe they have been wronged. In all, the CFPB has delivered a combined $11.8 billion in refunds and relief to approximately 29 million Americans defrauded by financial companies large and small. To continue to protect TCF customers and other consumers in Arizona, the CFPB must remain intact. Any weakening of the CFPB would invite a resurgence of the very same sort of abusive and deceptive financial practices that triggered the most recent economic crisis . -Diane E. Brown is executive director of the Arizona Public Interest Research Group.
BY FRANK SCHMUCK AFN Guest Writer
O
n Sept. 16, the Citizens Clean Election Commission held a debate of all the candidates running for the Arizona Legislature in District 18. The first question by the moderator was “If you were to be elected what would be the first bill you would submit and what do you consider your most important issue?” Both Democratic legislators now at the legislature answered, “Education is my chief issue in particular restoring education funding.” Sean Bowie specifically answered: “My most important issue would be education and restoring education funding and protecting the schools in our district. As far as the first bill I would really push for an audit of the state budget.” Well, since Bowie took office, it is clear by the bills he proposed that he finds it more advantageous to cater to special interests than keep his word to those who hired him. It takes a real leader who lives by his words, and stands by his words and his promise to the people he represents. Sean Bowie has not offered any viable solutions to the education funding issue. His proposals of raiding the rainy day fund and letting prisoners out of prison early were debunked by multiple media outlets. My answer to this same debate question is that “I am a proponent of education and I will remain one. I think that Prop 123 was a step in the right direction, but did not go far enough. I think what we need is more transparency in our government. We need more transparency to know what teachers’ salaries are and
where the money is truly going? That would be my first bill!” I truly believe that just throwing money at education won’t solve many of the issues we face, but taking a good hard look at where it goes should be the first priority in the solution. In Mr. Noravian’s letter to the editor on Jan. 25, he also actually proved my point by showing us that Nevada, a state without an income tax, actually spends more on their students then we do. It’s important to note that his figures are actually spending per student not spending per administrator or total spending on education. Mr. Novavian is right about one thing— education is a complicated issue. Nevada has 18 public school districts and Arizona has 230. Arizona might be spending less per student, but the total amount of money we are spending is more. But just where is it going? What Mr. Novarian didn’t tell us is that Arizona is ranked top third of all the states based on the percentage of state budget spent on education. No one seems to know just exactly how much “override money” education gets on top of all that. Over the years I have knocked on 25,000+ homes and these people are concerned about jobs in Arizona. The federal government has Arizona ranked near the bottom with one of the highest unemployment rates in the United States. When nearly 50 percent of Arizona college graduates cannot find work here it’s not because their education isn’t good enough. Over-regulation has impeded quality hard working people from finding work in Arizona. Frank Schmuck was the Republican candidate for state Senate in Legislative District 18.
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
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Ahwatukee Chamber to honor businesses, a nonprofit and two individuals AFN News Staff
T
he Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce will honor two businesses, a nonprofit organization, a volunteer and a teacher next week at its annual Day of Champions Breakfast. While the nominees for the five awards have been released, the winners will not be announced until the breakfast, 7:30 a.m. Feb. 17 at the Four Points by Sheraton, 10831 S. 51st St., Ahwatukee. Each year the chamber awards businesses and individuals for their “outstanding leadership, service, excellence in business and contribution to the community.” The keynote speaker will be state Treasurer Jeff DeWit. Also speaking will be Phoenix City Councilman Sal DiCiccio and chamber President/CEO Lindy Lutz Cash. Tickets are $40 for chamber members and $50 for nonmembers, and can be purchased at ahwatukeechamber.com. Here are the nominees for this year’s awards. EDUCATION MENTOR OF THE YEAR Karen Reiss Karen Reiss is a special education teacher in her third year at Centennial Middle School in Ahwatukee. “Karen is all about creating an environment in which personalize learning can occur,” the nomination stated. She has “perfected co-teaching,” in which two teachers share classroom duties so individual students can get more personalized attention. “She is responsible for teaching and mentoring other teachers in how to make this method effective, which then allows for the kinds of interventions that students who are at various proficiency levels need,” the nomination added. Working at both the school and district levels, Reiss’ “passion for students with special needs has inspired others to learn and grow.” Shawndra Reid An eighth-grade English language arts teacher at Centennial Middle School, Shawndra Reid mentored Pablo DeLeon
last year when he was a student teacher. This year, DeLeon took on the additional responsibility as the school’s wrestling coach and the team won the district’s wrestling championship. Crediting Reid’s mentoring, her nomination said she “leads in many areas” and analyzes data “to implement teaching strategies” that “drive instruction.” “In a time when fewer young adults are choosing to go into teaching as a career, someone like Shawndra is an invaluable resource for encouraging and supporting new teachers and she inspires those currently in the industry to elevate their teaching methods to the highest levels.” Therese Schmisseur Therese Schmisseur, the National Honor Society sponsor and an algebra teacher at Desert Vista High School, “is an outstanding scholar and leader” who “has a rigorous work and extracurricular schedule that is very demanding,” according to her nomination. “She has a genuine concern for others” and “spends a plethora of time creating, modifying and adjusting curriculum on the weekends to help tailor it to her diverse students,” it added. Frequently found in her classroom after hours providing additional tutoring to students, Schmisseur “seeks a deeper understanding of what she has learned and taught, which places greater meaning into her work and personal responsibilities,” the nomination said. VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Jim N. Hunt Realtor Jim N. Hunt of Ahwatukee estimates that he spends more than 30 hours a month engaged in a wide variety of activities in the community. Vice chair of the chamber board, he also chairs the Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA board and volunteers with the Festival of Lights Association. “I have never had a bad day by volunteering to help people or a cause,” he said. Pamela Manwaring Pamela Manwaring of Ahwatukee heads up the chamber’s Young Entrepreneurs
(AFN file photo)
Thousands turned out last November for the 21st annual Festival of Lights Kick-Off Party. The Festival of Lights association, which puts on the fest, is a nominee for the chamber's Nonprofit of the Year award.
Academy (YEA!), which teaches young people in middle school and high school how to start a successful business. This year 11 young people are students, gathering weekly under Manwaring’s direction to learn business principles and develop a plan for marketing and selling a product of their design. Manwaring lines up speakers, mentors, sponsors and the investors who decide what businesses to bankroll. Rick Allen Ahwatukee resident Rick Allen is an ambassador for the chamber, and helps new and existing members take advantage of its various services. He also mentors other ambassadors and is “always seeking to connect members to other others as network partners and connections and to find ways to promote their businesses," his nomination said. Tracy Jones Tracy Jones of Ahwatukee has been a volunteer in various chamber activities as well as a variety of other charities, including Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Junior Achievement, the Breast Cancer Walk, and Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. “I love cheering my peers on until we have reached our goal,” she said. Thomas S. Moore III Thomas S. Moore III of Chandler
has been a volunteer for the Southeast Valley Regional Association of Realtors, the House of Refuge, Starbright Foundation, Salvation Army and Jewish War Veterans. “My enthusiasm and sharing of ideas and causes helps to bring awareness,” he said. “And I personally benefit by being able to directly help make other situations better.” NONPROFIT OF THE YEAR Desert Garden Montessori Founded in 1996 by executive director Shetal Walters, Desert Garden Montessori aims to “build a sustainable community of families passionate about education, lifelong learning and Montessori philosophy.” Located at 5130 E. Warner Road, Ahwatukee, it serves almost 300 students from infancy to the 11th grade. “The school is committed to developing within each child a sense of responsibility and interdependence with their community and the world,” the school told the chamber. “Accordingly, Desert Garden’s philosophy encourages children to appreciate and respect nature and the environment.” Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club The Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club was chartered in December 1981 and has been a very active service organization in See
HONORS on page 35
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the community since that time. Members are involved in the Chamber, the local school districts, the YMCA, the Boys and Girls Club, Festival of Lights, as well as many other community organizations. “We partner, rather than compete, with other service organizations,” the club said, citing its projects for kids in group foster homes and its involvement in the Ahwatukee Easter Parade and Spring Fling. Festival of Lights Association The Festival of Lights is celebrating its 22nd anniversary this year. For its 20the anniversary, the association moved the first fund raiser to Rawhide to accommodate a growing attendance. The Kick Off Party in November was completely reorganized, again to accommodate a large attendance and “was also the best attended winter event in our history,” it said, noting the events raised $6,000 it gave to two charities this year. The Association said it will “seek additional or new charities who wish to be our beneficiaries for 2017.” Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA A community organization for the last 15 years, the Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA aims to put into practice Christian principles into practice through programs that build a health spirit, body and mind for all. It offers a free fitness program for cancer survivors, free swim lessons for needy kids, and runs the Y OPAS program for seniors in the community. Love I Am The 5-year-old Love I Am Foundation is dedicated to helping children with congenital heart defects. It sends them to week-long camp. It also raises money to buy sneakers for some of the poorest children in Phoenix. BUSINESS OF THE YEAR NOMINEES Ahwatukee Board of Management The Ahwatukee Board of Management, 4700 E. Warner Road, Ahwatukee, told the chamber in its application that it has always been more than a homeowners association to more than 20,000 households. “It has always been AMB’s philosophy to create a strong sense of community,” it said, stating its recreational amenities and offices have offer “a meeting place, hub and a tie that bind civic organizations and their efforts and events
to residents.” It noted it has been a member of the chamber since its inception and also has supported its Red White and Boom! Independence Day celebration since it started.
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AmTrust Bank AmTrust Bank, 4025 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee, said it has “demonstrated success with our genuine desire to be a resource to the community. Building strong relationships with our community and customers has (AFN file photo) increased our presence Justine Forbes, assistant teacher, reads a story to her class at Desert Garden Montessori, Ahwatukee, one of this as well as gained the year's nominees for the chamber's Nonprofit of the Year award. trust of those we serve.” It told the chamber that while it is a Businesswoman of the Year Award, Along with growing its presence as an active member in large company, its branch in the Frys is now on the chamber’s executive the chamber, the bank said its goal is at 40th Street and Chandler Boulevard board and her business has supported “to support our local businesses, new “has brought the small-town bank feel numerous chamber and Ahwatukee and existing, by making referrals and to the Ahwatukee community. We are activities since opening in 2011. connections to build up the community consistently in the community, attending and long-lasting relationships.” It noted events, going to schools from elementary The Specific Chiropractic Center Dr. Cameron Call opened the it conducts elderly fraud workshops to college to teach hands-on banking, throughout the community as well as visiting our small businesses to provide Specific Chiropractic Center, 4425 E. teaches financial literacy to high school knowledge around banking to ensure Agave Road, Ahwatukee, last June. He that all our customers are achieving specializes in helping individuals with students. financial success.” chronic and recurring pain that has not responded to traditional treatment by Centurylink focusing on the function of the nervous Century Link, 20 E. Thomas Road, SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR system and correcting neurostructural Phoenix, is the nation’s third largest Dr. Janet Euzarraga Ahwatukee dentist Dr. Janet dysfunction to help the body heal itself. telecommunications company and has Active in the chamber as well as the supported numerous chamber activities, Euzarraga, 4206 E. Chandler Blvd., has including co-sponsoring the Red been practicing dentistry for 30 years, community, he said, he “believes the White and Boom Independence Day and has been in Ahwatukee since 2001. best way to exhibit leadership is to be She opened her own practice a year ago willing to serve where and when he can.” celebration. and performs a full range of services. She He credits the growth of his business to said by far her “favorite thing to do is a the relationships he has built through his Empire West Title Agency Empire West Title Agency, 4505 smile makeover, as it usually has a huge involvement in the community. E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee, has impact on the life of the recipient.” Stating that her goal is to treat her Ahwatukee Foothills News been serving the real estate industry AFN Publisher Steve Strickbine in Ahwatukee for 14 years. Part of the patients like family members, she said, state’s fifth largest title agency, it has “I opened up a very small, boutique type told the chamber that as a community been active in the chamber, supporting office, where I can treat people exactly newspaper, the Ahwatukee Foothills as I would like to be treated.” She has News and its staff “are consummate mixers and other efforts. It said it is “constantly looking for ways supported various community activities. champions of small business in the Ahwatukee community.” to educate the real estate community in The paper has been a major supporter the Ahwatukee market” by conducting Elements Massage Elements Massage, 7131 W. Ray of numerous community events and tours of the community and regularly promotes escrow officers within its ranks. Road, Chandler, provides “therapeutic celebrations, including the Festival of massage to provide pain reduction, stress the Lights, Red White and Boom and relief and relaxation in a safe professional the Easter Parade and Spring Fling. Wells Fargo Wells Fargo at 3949 E. Chandler environment,” it told the chamber. It has Strickbine bought the paper in January Blvd., Ahwatukee, noted that its branch services for children, pregnant women 2016 and has made a major effort to manager Linda Highland is now on and elderly people and employs only improve its coverage of the community by hiring experienced writers and the chamber board and that it has licensed massage specialists. Owner Janet Schwab, winner editors, resulting in significant growth in consistently supported the organization’s of last year’s chamber Palo Verde advertising. various activities.
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
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Junior Achievement leaders seek alumni to tell their stories
State University and executive director of ASU Gammage, one of the nation’s most successful university-connected s a young woman in Detroit, performing-arts venues. Her husband, Michigan, Colleen Jennings- Kurt Jennings, is a volcanologist at ASU. Roggensack crafted blue-andWhen she was just out of college, white peace signs and sold them to her Chandler neighbor, Karen Quick, neighborhood merchants. made wooden wishing well planters The Ahwatukee resident learned early and woven breadbaskets as part of a JAthese and other business, marketing formed company that her employer had and advertising skills through Junior sponsored. Achievement USA, “Both companies the Colorado-based were successful organization that earning a profit empowers young and returning the people through $1 stock price-plus programs on when we liquidated e n t re p re n e u r s h i p, the companies,” financial literacy, she recalled. She work-readiness and is now director of success. internal controls for Throughout Accenture, a global the year, Junior professional services Achievement of company providing Arizona is hoping business services and to re-engage its solutions in strategy, alumni statewide and consulting, digital, celebrate their stories. technology and Since 1919, more than operations. 100 million students Dhruva Moudgal, (Special to AFN) have participated also an Ahwatukee in JA programs Ahwatukee resident Colleen Jennings- resident, participated Roggensack credits her success as head of nationwide. ASU Gammage partly to what she learned in the JA BizTown The local chapter, in Junior Achievement as a young girl. program in fifth JA Arizona, a not-forgrade, and through profit organization, middle school he since 1957 has taught the knowledge volunteered at JA, helping to prepare and skills young people need to manage educational materials. money, plan for their futures and make During high school, he participated smart academic, career and economic in the annual JA Student Stock choices. Market Challenge and attended the JA “I was always trying new things, and You’re Hired event, where he learned JA taught me that it wasn’t bad to have interviewing, networking and other a business mind,” Jennings-Roggensack business skills. said. He’s now an ASU student majoring in Today, the JA alumna is associate vice accounting. president cultural affairs for Arizona More than 9,500 corporate and BY DAVID M. BROWN AFN Contributing Writer
A
Don’t let politics drive your investments. Joseph B. Ortiz, AAMS , CRPS ®
community volunteers in Arizona to Phoenix in 1970 with her family, has schedule age-appropriate groups such been volunteering with JA since 2007, as the JA Company Program, an when she started teaching the sixth-grade entrepreneurship experience for high lesson, “Global Marketplace,” in a local schoolers in which students start and run school. their own businesses, much as JenningsShe introduced JA to her sons’ Roggensack and Quick had done. Montessori school where she presented During the 2015−2016 school year, JA the kindergarten curriculum for two Arizona reached nearly 94,000 students. years, and from 2008–2016 she taught Other JA alumni include Dallas the first- through sixth-grade programs Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, in their classes. comedian Amy “I also volunteer Sedaris, former U.S. teaching JA high Secretary of Health school programs such and Human Services as JA Career Success, Donna Shalala and JA Economics for AOL founder Steve Success, JA You’re Case. Hired and brought In spring 2016, 700 Personal Finance JA alumni were asked and Economics for by JA to determine the Success to a local impact the experience junior high,” she has had for them. said, noting that she Among the results: is a member of both 62 percent are working the Arizona Central in positions that are District and State “manager status or boards. above”; 90 percent Focused on his claim to be confident in studies now, Moudgal money management; volunteers at JA (Special to AFN) occasionally. He even 75 percent favor Moudgal, an Ahwatukee resident, entrepreneurship; and Dhruva participated in the JA BizTown program in inspired his mom, JA Alumni earn nearly fifth grade and helped prepare educational Jyothsna, to work for 20 percent more than materials in later years for Junior JA: “I wouldn’t stop the general population. Achievement. talking about how Because of such much fun my fifthsuccess, JA wants to disseminate their grade field trip to JA BizTown was.” stories, connect with young people and Partnering with 250-plus schools in the inspire more adults to be involved. state, the program introduces middle“Our alumni are an important part school students to economic concepts, of the Junior Achievement of Arizona workplace skills and finances at its Tempe family. Our goal is to engage with alumni location. to help empower today’s students and He told friends, too: “I’m sure Junior equip them to succeed,” said Katherine Achievement played a part in many of Cecala, president of Junior Achievement my friends enrolling in business schools of Arizona. See JUNIOR on page 38 Quick, a New York native who came
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
Sales tax exemptions cost Arizona $12 billion annually BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services
S
tate lawmakers took the first steps last week to potentially eliminating exemptions from sales taxes that now cost the state more than $12 billion a year. On paper, SB 1144 does not cut any one of the hundreds of tax breaks that have been shepherded through the Legislature, many decades ago and often at the behest of special interest lobbyists. Instead it simply requires that each of these exemptions be regularly reviewed to see which still make sense. “If you don’t look at these things in the first place, you can’t get rid of the bad stuff in the tax code,’’ said Sen. Steve Farley, D-Tucson, who crafted the legislation approved unanimously by the Senate Finance Committee. “But that’s how these lobbyists have made a mint for decades: They stash this stuff deep in the thicket of the tax code so no one ever sees it,’’ he explained. “So no one ever thinks it’s there except for it’s hemorrhaging $12 billion a year from our revenues.’’ Those exemptions dwarf the $4.3 billion the state collected last year in sales taxes to support a $9.6 billion spending plan. Equity aside, Farley said he is promoting SB 1144 for a more practical reason. He estimates at least $2 billion of those exemptions are low-hanging fruit that, once reviewed, will not withstand scrutiny. Farley figures half of that would provide needed dollars for education while still giving relief to Arizona residents by lowering the overall tax rate from its current 5.6 percent. SB 1144 drew bipartisan support, with
Sen. David Farnsworth, R-Mesa, who chairs the Senate Finance Committee signing on as a cosponsor. But Farnsworth conceded his motives are different than Farley’s desire to fund education. He figures the more money Arizona can generate from sales taxes means the less the state would depend on individual income taxes.
final purchase. That compares with a European system of “value-added’’ taxes, where every transaction is taxed each time a product or service changes hands. That exemption for wholesale trade equals $4 billion. The state could collect more than $356 million if grocery store purchases of food for home consumption were subject to
What the exemptions cover
Here are some of the existing sales tax exemptions in Arizona and their cost to the state: Legal service: $180.5 million Architectural/engineering: $200.7 million Physicians: $437.9 million Dentists: $117.6 million Prescriptions/oxygen: $604 million Investment advice: $34.0 million Securities brokerage: $111.6 million Hospital services: $781.4 million Assisted living facilities: $55.6 million Beauty salons: $18.2 million Nail salons: $3.1 million Parking lots and garages: $10.7 million “I see personal income tax as something I would love to eliminate,’’ he said. “Income tax discourages people from greater effort.’’ But Farley and Farnsworth said that’s a debate for a future legislature to debate— assuming any of the exemptions actually go away. Both lawmakers conceded the chances of eliminating all the exemptions are slim, with some likely to remain, albeit for different reasons. For example, Arizona taxes only a
Technical and trade schools - $31.9 million Auto repair services: $102.3 million Wholesale trade: $4.0 billion Food for home consumption $356.4 million Sale of lottery tickets: $43.6 million Seeds for agricultural crops: $1.8 million Internet access services: $1.3 million Warranty and service contracts: $19.1 million Pet care (not veterinary): $3.4 million the levy. Eliminating that exemption could prove politically unpalatable, though Farnsworth said it would be “healthy’’ to at least look at the issue. There also is likely to be little support for requiring people to pay sales taxes on prescriptions even though that would generate another $604 million annually. But Farley said there are those that make little sense, like the $746,000 the state does not collect on the sale of fourinch pipe used to transport oil, natural gas, water or coal slurry.
He pointed out there is no similar exemption for pipes of other sizes. The reason: Farley said lobbyists from Southwest Gas said they should not have to pay a sales tax to buy pipes to deliver their product. Farley sniffed at that logic. “The guy that installs carpet for a living has to buy a truck to deliver his product to market,’’ he said. So why the difference? “He can’t afford a lobbyist to come down here and get him out of paying sales tax on his truck,’’ Farley said. There also is the separate question of whether services, now exempt, should be taxed. That covers not just medical and legal services but the cost of installing new brakes on a vehicle, with the parts subject to the levy but not the part of the bill attributable to labor. Broadening the sales tax base to include services would generate more than $5.1 billion. Nothing in Farley’s bill, which now needs Senate approval, would actually guarantee that a single exemption would be eliminated. It simply requires regular review of each by a special legislative panel. “But let’s look at them all,’’ he said, saying that putting credits on auto pilot once they’re enacted results in lawmakers “driving blind’’ in setting state fiscal policy. That review committee would have to look at the history, rationale and estimated revenue of each credit. Potentially more significant, the panel would need to determine whether the credit has actually provide a benefit for the state, things like economic development, new investment, creating new jobs or retaining existing ones.
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FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
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Siblings help older consumers get the right computer
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as well. “Junior Achievement allowed me to learn about the business world at an extremely young age, and it is a major reason why I’m going to business school today,” Moudgal said. Today, Jennings-Roggensack speaks publically about how JA allowed her to chart her path and be financially responsible, which has been essential in her 35-year arts career and her guidance of a venue with the stature of ASU Gammage. She supports the group through her Rotary chapter as well as JA BizTown. “All of us got where we are today because someone else was there, a mentor, a teacher, a friend, a supportive community,” Jennings-Roggensack said. “We all stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before –– and our young people stand on ours.” Those who participated in a JA program as students can share their stories and join the JA alumni network, jaaz.org/shareJAstory, or on the JA of Arizona Facebook page, facebook.com/ JAArizona. More information is available at ja.org.
BY RACHEL EROH AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
I
ronman Refurbished Business Computers has provided refurbished and customized computers to individuals and businesses in the Valley for six years now. Now, thanks to word of mouth and news coverage, seniors have reached out to the Chandler-based company for help with finding computers and learning how to use them. “They would actually cut our articles out of the paper and give us a call,” said Linda Chan, who co-owns the company with her brother Ken. “Many seniors, when they call, don’t have any computer background.” Ken and Linda started off by teaching computer classes to young kids. The duo will seek out the best computer to meet a senior’s needs and even give them a tutorial on how to use the programs and internet. The duo does not currently teach classes for senior citizens to help them with their computer skills. “We have been asked to teach classes for senior citizens like we do with
children, and it’s definitely something to consider,” Linda said. But for many seniors, they recommend a computer that can be used for basic internet browsing with a webcam to Skype family on. Linda said she often suggests a computer with an extended keyboard and a wider screen for a clearer picture. “A lot of times, people don’t know the difference between a consumer laptop and a business laptop, and we do,” Ken said. “That’s where we come in.” IRBC also specializes in helping small and medium-sized businesses, schools and individuals. They focus on repurposing businessgrade Dell and HP models. They then can customize computers to fit the customer’s needs, Ken said. “We ask the clients a lot of questions to figure out what exactly they need their computer for,” Ken said. Ken and Linda are flexible when it comes to meeting with clients to figure out what they need for their computer. “We can either meet them at our storage warehouse or we can meet them wherever they want it to be,” Ken said. “It can be at a Starbucks, McDonalds,
their house or wherever.” Bill Sands, a 62-year-old retired electrical engineer from Ahwatukee, recently bought one laptop and one desktop from IRBC. “I use mine to do the kinds of things that engineers do all day,” Sands said. “Geeky things.” Sands said that Ken was helpful with showing his wife how to use the laptop. “He showed my wife all the things that made this laptop slightly different than those she had been previously exposed to,” Sands said. Ken did not badger Sands or his wife to decide on a computer or to make a purchase, Sands said. “Ken was not trying to play the role of high-pressure salesman,” Sands said. Sands said that he plans to recommend IRBC to his friends when they are looking for a computer. Now, the IRBC duo plans to expand their business nationwide, while also working to maintain their personal touch, Ken said. Desktops start at $299 and include one-year limited warranties, lifetime tech support and free delivery or shipping on orders throughout the Phoenix area.
18th Annual Day of Champions Award Breakfast Friday, February 17th • 8am-10am Four Points by Sheraton Ahwatukee 10831 S. 51st St., Phoenix, AZ 85044
Keynote Speaker will be Jeff DeWit, Treasurer of the State of Arizona Each year the chamber awards businesses and individuals for their outstanding leadership, service, excellence in business and contribution to the community. Premier Sponsor:
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Tickets Now Available Member Non-Member $40 $50 Tables Seating 8 Member Non-Member $285 $375
The following will be awarded for the year 2016: • Small Business of the Year • Large Business of the Year • Educational Mentor of the Year • Volunteer of the Year • Non-Profit of the Year.
For more information please contact info@ahwatukeechamber.com or visit www.ahwatukeechamber.com
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
State may raise minimum for motor vehicle liability insurance in a single accident, and $10,000 for damage to property, including someone else’s vehicle. SB 1111 would increase those limits to $25,000, $50,000 and $25,000 respectively. Sen. Kate Brophy McGee, R-Phoenix, said there’s a practical problem with the current statutory minimum. “We send a signal or a message to Arizona consumers that this is enough, that if I buy this, it’ll be OK,’’ she said. “More and more consumers are finding out, in fact the hard way, that it’s not.’’ But David Childers, who lobbies for the Property and Casualty Insurance Association, questioned whether there really is a need to force motorists to buy more protection. He cited a study which said about 85 percent of all insurance claims for bodily injury are settled for $7,200 or less. And Childers said property damage claims generally fall into the $3,000 to $4,000 range. Childers said there will always be some claims above that and above the state minimum coverage requirement. But he said that will always be the case, no matter how much insurance lawmakers mandate that motorists purchase.
BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services
A
cknowledging it will mean higher costs for some, a Senate panel voted last week to increase the amount of liability insurance motorists will have to purchase to drive on Arizona roads. The 6-1 vote by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure came despite opposition from the insurance industry. Lobbyists said anything that increases costs will mean more people choosing to drive without insurance despite laws making that illegal. But Sen. Bob Worsley, R-Mesa, who chairs the panel, said he believes the change would add only about $7 to $8 a month more to the average bill of those affected, a number he said should not make a big difference in the state’s current 12 percent rate of uninsured motorists. And he also suggested it’s time to revisit the statute, noting that the amount of coverage now required under Arizona law has not changed in more than 40 years. That law requires purchase of so-called 15/30/10 liability: $15,000 for injury to any one person, $30,000 for all injuries
“By doing it, what you’ll accomplish is you will have increased premiums for the group that’s least able to buy more insurance,’’ Childers said, estimating that about one out of every five vehicle owners buys as little as legally required. “You’re essentially putting the price of the increase in premiums on the back of the people who can least afford it.’’ That sentiment was echoed by Ellen Poole, who lobbies for a group that specializes in providing coverage for those in the military. She rattled off some salaries for privates and lower-level enlistees, saying they tend to purchase the least amount necessary “to get their cars on the road.’’ And Poole said they’re not concerned about having insufficient coverage because they’re pretty much “judgment-proof,’’ having few personal assets that can be seized if the injuries or damages they cause exceed their insurance. Several lawmakers, however, said that does not address the other side of the equation: The damages sustained by those hit by motorists. A 2015 study done by legislative budget staffers said forcing motorists to buy more insurance would reduce the costs to the state’s Medicaid program. That’s because
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when those who are injured cannot get compensated by the at-fault party they can wind up eligible for governmentprovided health care. That same study also said the state would gain because motorists who take out signs, guardrails and other property along highways would have the coverage to pay the full costs. A task force which looked at the issue this past year said that of $16 million in such damage in the last three years, about $6 million was unrecoverable, mostly because the drivers did not have sufficient insurance. Kelsey Lundy, lobbyist for Enterprise Rent-A-Car, said her client’s problems with SB 1111 is the belief that higher premiums will lead to more motorists driving without insurance. And what that means, she said, is higher costs when her company’s cars are damaged by uninsured drivers. But Sen. Juan Mendez, D-Tempe, said that ignores the fact that if the motorists with coverage actually have more insurance, they will be better able to pay for the damages they cause. Lundy conceded that’s possible but said she still believes her client is better off under the current system.
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SPIRITUAL SIDE
Your ‘faith muscles’ need exercise lest they atrophy BY DIANE MARKINS AFN Guest Writer
A
re you fat, lazy and graceless...in your faith? When was the last time you truly worked on your faith muscles? Just as our bones hold us up and our ligaments and skin keep everything contained, our salvation faith—what Christ did on the cross—will sustain us. But in order to keep our faith growing and in good shape, we need to exercise our faith muscles. A few years saw a great example of this as my pastor stretched his faith muscles. He talked about the importance of tithing. Not just how much it means to God, but what a blessing it is to the
giver. As he concluded, he offered a money-back guarantee to anyone who committed to give at least 10 percent of their earnings for 90 days. If anyone wasn’t satisfied with the resultant blessings in their life, the church would reimburse them. This has nothing to do with material gain, but with receiving intangible rewards like peace, provision, comfort, contentment and joy. By stretching his faith muscles this pastor inspired others to begin stretching theirs as well. Our faith muscles will atrophy if we don’t use them. We need to stretch them and build them up for strength. As we stretch them beyond the limit of our comfort (only as far as they typically go every day), we allow ourselves greater
flexibility, grace and longer strides. After we stretch and begin to move more freely, we also begin to gain strength of faith. In my family, each of us has been stretching our faith muscles lately. My son is changing the direction of our family business, having many experiences that stretched him. His wife takes care of their home and kids. My daughter has a new job and is learning to step out in authority that has been given to her. My husband is strengthening as he finds creative ways to keep our business alive and all our employees working in a bad economy. Others are flexing new muscles as they relax and trust God for healing. Every word I write is my effort at extending my tight faith muscles. They want to hold me back and keep me in
the same spot, but God says that I need to push back and go beyond my point of comfort—even if it hurts. I want to see how strong my faith can get; what I can accomplish, but this will only be realized if I (and YOU) stop being a spectator and begin exercising faith muscles to the point that they are sore and tired. What new thing could you try? What could you do better? Where is God working that you could join Him if you just stretched a tiny bit? Comment about your faith fitness goals or challenges below. There should be contentment in challenge. Ahwatukee resident Diane Markins divides her time between family, platform speaking, radio, business and writing. Dianemarkins. com
Operation Christmas Child seeks year-round volunteers BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
T
he decorations haven’t even been put away when Robin Earle starts thinking about the next Christmas. And recently at Mountain Park Community Church in Ahwatukee, she explained why as she tried to enlist about 20 other people to think and act like she does. Earle heads up the South Mountain team for Operation Christmas Child, the international drive that delivers gift-wrapped shoeboxes filled with little necessities and toys to more than 11 million need children around the world. Her team covers Ahwatukee, Chandler, Tempe, South Phoenix, Guadalupe and several Pinal County communities and she has been a fulltime team leader for much of the 22 years that she has participated in the drive, run by the international Christian charity, Samaritan’s Purse. She has a straightforward answer when
(Dianne Ross/AFN Contributor)
Robin Earle addresses prospective year-round volunteers for Operation Christmas Child during a meeting at Mountain Park Community Church in Ahwatukee.
asked why she does it: “There’s a lot of hurt in the world and children need hope.”
Samaritan’s Purse has distributed shoebox gifts to children in over 130 countries since 1993, and more than
11.4 million received one last year alone. Boxes packed by Arizonans are delivered to kids in the Philippines, Indonesia, Peru, Mongolia, Bangladesh and native Americans in the U.S. The idea behind the project is simple: Pack a shoebox with school supplies, toiletries and small toys. Prohibited items include liquids, perishable food and warrelated toys. The containers are either pre-decorated photo-storage boxes or plastic boxes with tops and bottoms gift-wrapped separately so they can be checked before they are shipped. Donors also kick in $7 per box to defray shipping costs. These days, donors can also go online to samaritanspurse.org and just click and pay to have a shoebox stuffed, wrapped and delivered. But Early wouldn’t think that’s any fun. So even though 20 of her 110 team members worked throughout the year preparing for the mid-November push to get the shoeboxes packed and sent along See
CALENDAR on page 42
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FAITH
VOLUNTEERS
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
FAITH CALENDAR from page 42
their way, Earle is looking for a lot more help. A project leader at Mountain Park Community Church for the first five years of her participation in Operation Christmas Child, Earle said the more year-round workers she has, the deeper she can penetrate the community and spread the word about the project. For example, there are businesses to contact for support, at least permission to set up a stand with shoeboxes that patrons can then take home. Then those stands need to be replenished. With more than 200 churches in the area covered by her team, Earle also could use a project leader for each one. Schools offer a bigger challenge, though Earle said she is “delighted” that teams have formed at Desert Vista and Corona del Sol high schools. Before beginning her recruitment pitch to the would-be volunteers, Earle read a passage from Ephesians and another helped said a prayer. “What stands out for me are our partnerships,” she said. “What I really love about this is how interwoven we all.” “We want to expand our South Mountain Team in order to reach more churches and community groups as well as supporting all we do, with God’s strength, through our prayer team” She talked of hour her team packed 14,000 boxes last year—1,800 more than the previous year—and said her mission this year is to do whatever she can to help the overall Operation Christmas Child reach 12 million kids. People who are interested in volunteering can contact her at bottsearle@gmail. com. Earle also is hosting a gathering for prospective volunteers at 9 a.m. Feb. 13 at Cupz N Crepes, 4232 E Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee.
SATURDAY, FEB. 25 HEALING FROM DIVORCE
St. Andrew the Apostle Church is holding a Day of Healing for the Divorced and Separate that will feature Marianna Skrobiak, a retired psychotherapist who also has a background in theology. Her topics will cover healthy boundaries, roadblocks, trust, forgiveness and moving on. DETAILS>> 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 3450 W. Ray Road, Chandler; $45 covers breakfast, lunch and study materials. Register/information: 480-899-1990, barb-blishko@ standrewchandler.com.
SUNDAYS
VALOR CHRISTIAN OUTLINES MISSION
Valor Christian Center in Gilbert offers “great praise and worship and great messages for today’s living,” according to Pastor Thor Strandholt, associate pastor. “Our mission is evangelize, healing and discipleship through the word of God.” DETAILS>> 10 a.m. Sundays and 7 p.m. Thursdays. 3015 E. Warner Road. Information: valorcc.com.
HORIZON SEEKS YOUNG PEOPLE
High school and middle school students meet to worship and do life together. DETAILS>> 5 p.m. at Horizon Presbyterian Church, 1401 E. Liberty Lane. 480-460-1480 or email joel@horizonchurch.com.
KIDS CAN LEARN JEWISH LIFE
Children can learn and experience Jewish life. Chabad Hebrew School focuses on Jewish heritage, culture and holidays. DETAILS>> 9:30 a.m. to noon, for children ages 5-13 at Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler. 480-855-4333, info@chabadcenter.com, or chabadcenter.com.
RABBINIC LIT COURSE OFFERED
Ongoing morning study of two classics of rabbinic literature by medieval philosopher Moses Maimonides (the “Rambam”). At 10 a.m., Prof. Norbert Samuelson, Grossman chair of Jewish Philosophy at ASU and TBS member, teaches “Maimonides’ Guide of the Perplexed: What Jews Ought to Believe.” At 11:15 a.m., TBS member Isaac Levy teaches “Maimonides’ Mishneh Torah: How Jews Ought to Behave.” Readings in both Hebrew and English. DETAILS>> Community Room of the administration building at Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley, 3400 N. Dobson Road, Chandler. 480-897-3636.
UNITY OFFERS A PATH
Unity of Mesa says its Sunday service offers “a positive path for spiritual living” through “transformational lessons, empowering music and various spiritual practices with an open-minded and welcoming community.” DETAILS>> 9 and 10:45 a.m. 2700 E. Southern Ave., Mesa. Nursery available for infants through kindergarten at service times. Youth ministry classes are open in the Education Annex at 10:45 a.m. Information: 480-892-
2700, unityofmesa.org, lori@unityofmesa.org.
ALL ARE WELCOME
All on a peaceful spiritual path are welcome and honored in this inclusive, loving, thriving Unity Community. Join us for Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center’s Sunday Celebration Service DETAILS>> 10:30 a.m. Toddlers and children meet during our service. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline, Suite 102, Mesa. Information: info@interfaithcommunity.org.
MONDAYS
JOIN CHRIST-CENTERED YOGA
This Flow 1-2 class (intermediate) is free and open to the community. DETAILS>> 6-7 p.m., Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road. Greg Battle at 480-759-6200 or gbattle@moutainpark.org.
CLASS TARGETS THE GRIEVING
Classes for those grieving over death or divorce. DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m., Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 739 W. Erie St., Chandler. 480-963-4127.
STRUGGLING FIND SUPPORT
Support group for those struggling with how to deal with a loss. DETAILS>> 7 p.m., 1825 S. Alma School Road, Room C201, Chandler. Pastor Larry Daily, 480-963-3997, ext. 141, larrydaily@chandlercc.org or chandlercc.org.
TUESDAYS
CELEBRATE RECOVERY
Celebrate Recovery is a Biblical program that helps us overcome our hurts, hang-ups, and habits. Through teaching, worship, and sharing in small groups, you will find genuine people devoted to help discover the power of
Christ through the recovery process. DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m., Central Christian Church, 933 N. Lindsay Road, Mesa. Information: Eric at 480-924-4946.
GRIEFSHARE
Mountain Park Community Church is offering an ongoing GriefShare programs to help people deal with the pain of losing a loved one. DETAILS>> 6:30-8 p.m., 2408 E. Pecos Road, Ahwatukee. To register: mountainpark.org and click on Launch. Information: Alex at 480-759-6200
FINDING HEALING FOR PAIN
HOPE, an acronym for “Help Overcome Painful Experiences,” offers support for men and women who seek God’s grace and healing. DETAILS>> 6:30 to 8 p.m. Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road. mountainpark.org.
SENIORS ENJOY ‘TERRIFIC TUESDAYS’
The program is free and includes bagels and coffee and a different speaker or theme each week. Registration not needed. DETAILS>> 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Barness Family East Valley Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. evjcc.org or 480-897-0588.
WEDNESDAYS
CELEBRATE RECOVERY MEETS
Celebrate Recovery says it “brings your relationship with the Lord closer to your heart as it heals your hurts, habits and hang-ups.” Participants can discuss issues ranging from feeling left out to addictions. “Nothing is too small or too large.” DETAILS>> 6:20 p.m. at Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. mvlutheran.org/ celebraterecovery or email cr@alphamvlc.com. Submit your releases to pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com
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FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
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Ahwatukee actor goes from Star Wars character to dramatic role BY COLLEEN SPARKS AFN Contributing Writer
A
hwatukee Foothills actor Rapheal Hamilton isn’t afraid to grunt and purr like the “Star Wars” character Chewbacca, but he’s taking on a more serious, human role in a play The Black Theatre Troupe will be performing this month. But the 32-year-old actor is dropping the furry costume he wore in another production to play the character Ennis, one of the adult brothers in “Broke-ology,” a play by Nathan Louis Jackson about a close but poor African-American family in Kansas City, Kansas. In the play, Ennis and his brother Malcolm struggle to take care of their father, William, a widower who has multiple sclerosis, while still trying to also pursue their own careers, relationships and dreams. Ennis works at a restaurant and has stayed in the family’s hometown, but soon will become a father as his girlfriend is pregnant. Malcolm recently finished graduate school in Connecticut and is visiting their hometown, but is considering returning to Connecticut for a job. “It’s this dynamic and this struggle between these brothers, who love their family but they also have their own lives to consider at the same time,” Hamilton said. “It’s very deep and the dynamics of showing the personal struggle between wanting to do what’s best for you and wanting to do what’s best for your family. “It gives an honest perspective on what many people in the country are facing,” he added. The play will be on stage starting Friday, Feb. 10, and running through Feb. 26 at Helen K. Mason Performing Arts Center on East Washington Street in downtown Phoenix. While Hamilton’s taking on a heavy subject matter in “Broke-ology,” he doesn’t take himself too seriously. He put on a furry costume to play Chewbacca in New Carpa Theater’s “American Pastorela: The Trumpifornication Tour,” a political satire about the national election and pop culture, last year.
Hamilton also played Chewbacca in another New Carpa Theater play, “American Pastorela: Everybody Wants to be Governor,” a political satire based on Arizona politics and pop culture about two years ago. Hamilton said playing Chewbacca was “so much fun,” adding “laughter is good for the soul.” He also played Arizona’s U.S. Senator John McCain in “American Pastorela: The Trumpifornication Tour” and John Huppenthal, former Arizona superintendent of public instruction, in “American Pastorela: Everybody Wants to be Governor.” James Garcia, the producing artistic director for Phoenix-based New Carpa Theater, praised Hamilton for being “versatile” and fully committed to his acting. “It would have been very easy for him to say, ‘Yeah, that’s just not in my repertoire; I can’t swing Chewbacca,’” Garcia, of Ahwatukee, said. “He dives right in. “He’s always a joy to work with,” he added. “He’s serious about what he does, but doesn’t take himself too seriously.” Hamilton also performed in another New Carpa Theater play, “American Dreamer: The Life and Times of Raúl H. Castro,” about the late former Arizona Governor and U.S. Ambassador Raúl H. Castro. He played a teenager delivering newspapers. “Broke-ology” director Anthony Runfola, who is also general manager for Childsplay, a Tempe-based theater with shows for youths, had similar praise for Hamilton. He said Hamilton is “emotionally open” and often jokes around with the other actors in the play. “He’s very funny,” Runfola said. “He understands what’s funny. “He’s really done a great job of finding the truth and the honesty of that character and understanding those choices that Ennis is making,” he added. Runfola said though the play is dramatic, it has very funny moments, too. Hamilton, who has performed in movies, as well as in many plays in the Valley and Memphis, Tenn.; where he grew up,
(Colleen Sparks/Special to AFN)
Ahwatukee actor Raphael Hamilton, right, rehearses a scene with Christopher Dozier as they prepare for Friday’s opening of “Broke-ology.”
laughed when describing how he got into acting by accident over a decade ago. He said he was working as a host at an Applebee’s restaurant in Memphis, where the owner of a modeling and talent agency often came to eat. “One day he stopped me and asked me if I modeled, and I was like, ‘Absolutely; I never thought about it,’” Hamilton laughed. Later the modeling and talent agency owner asked him to audition for a commercial, and he got the part. Hamilton was 20 years old when he made his acting debut in a TV commercial for a jewelry store, playing the part of a man asking his girlfriend to marry him. “It was so much fun,” Hamilton said. “It just takes you into a whole other place. “You get to pretend again, like a kid,” he added. Hamilton said the process of filming a commercial with the lights, camera and equipment also intrigued him. He had wanted to be a computer engineer as a child. Hamilton went to school for a couple of years at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, but got more interested in entertainment and broadcasting while taking classes there. Hamilton later landed a part as the comic relief in a crime drama in an independent film shown in Nashville, and also got work as an extra in the movie, “Hustle & Flow.” He says he was inspired by a playwright,
director and comedienne, Irma Johnson, who he worked with in community theater plays in Memphis. “Miss Irma was the one lady who saw me early on in my acting and really pushed me,” Hamilton said. “She said, ‘Never quit.’” He’s happy to perform for the second time with the Black Theatre Troupe after having performed with them for the first time in the play, “Two Trains Running” in 2012. Hamilton said he played a man recently released from jail “trying to get his life back together” in that show. He said he’s grateful to the Italian pizza restaurant Rosati’s on East Chandler Boulevard in Ahwatukee, where he works as a cook and is training to be a manager. His employer allows him to take the time he needs to go to rehearsals several nights a week for the play. To take a breather from his hectic schedule, Hamilton likes to go hiking at South Mountain Park with his girlfriend and work out at EOS Fitness on East Elliot Road in Ahwatukee. He said he loves living in Ahwatukee as it’s a friendly, peaceful community. “It has everything you need within the area, a view of mountains, so many different things that are here,” Hamilton said. “Everyone seems very kind. It makes me feel like I’m back down South.” Tickets/information: new-wp. blacktheatretroupe.org.
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
Restaurants offer romantic dinners for lovers’ special day BY COLLEEN SPARKS AFN Contributing Writer
A
nyone who is in the mood for food— or thinks the way to their loved one’s heart is through their stomach—can find many special Valentine’s Day dinners at East Valley restaurants. Lovers can treat their sweetheart on Tuesday, Feb. 14—or a few days earlier—to a formal, multi-course meal by candlelight or grab more a casual, less expensive treat in local bars/restaurants. Restaurants in Ahwatukee Foothills, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa and Tempe are stepping up their culinary game with food and drink specials. The Melting Pot on East Ray Road in Ahwatukee is trying to stir up some romance with its five-course Valentine’s Day Celebration Package dinner, including a champagne toast for $79.95 per person on Feb. 10, 11 and 14. Customers dip and cook their own vegetables, meat, seafood and bread in broths they choose. Customers will start with a mushroom brie bisque, then choose a cheese fondue with white truffle cheddar or sparkling gruyere cheeses to soak up bread and vegetables. For their entrees, diners have two choices: The Lover’s Delight entrée gives customers lobster tail, jumbo shrimp, scallops, breast of chicken, honey-orange duck breast and pasta. The Meat Lover’s entrée gives diners Angus beef sirloin, filet mignon, teriyakimarinated sirloin, breast of chicken, honeyorange duck breast and pasta. “People spend a lot of time with each other,” at The Melting Pot, general manager of the Ahwatukee restaurant Lane Kier said.
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“Our dining experience is over two hours. “It’s just a good romantic place to hide,” Kier added. With the Valentine’s Day entrees, Melting Pot customers decide which broths they want to dip their seafood and/or meat in, including ones with champagne, red wine, vegetables and garlic. To top off the romantic night, diners’ fifth course is a Flaming Turtle or white chocolate crème brûlée chocolate fondue with strawberries, cheesecakes and marshmallows for dipping. Also in Ahwatukee, Pomegranate Café, a vegan restaurant with vegetarian options on East Chandler Boulevard near 40th Street, is offering Valentine’s Day specials. Pomegranate will serve a beet ravioli with pine nut “goat cheese,” rosemary cream sauce and a pomegranate balsamic reduction for $16 on Feb. 14. The other entrée special that night will be a mushroom ricotta tart with roasted cherry tomatoes for $16. Customers can also indulge in Valentine’s Day appetizers, oyster mushroom scallops with a white wine beurre blanc, and a special dessert, the RAW! Chocolate Mousse with coconut whip and raspberries. While dining, people can listen to live string music from 5 to 8 p.m. at Pomegranate Café. The Ahwatukee restaurant will also offer a special drink, Love Potion Elixir, made from vanilla bean, lavender, rose, cinnamon, Pellegrino, and pomegranate juice for Valentine’s Day. Pomegranate also has many pastries including chocolate rose cupcakes. “Our menu is all plant-based and organic, made from scratch with love,” Pomegranate Café co-owner owner Cassie Tolman said.
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In downtown Chandler, restaurant and wine bar Vintage 95 on West Boston Street is offering a multi-course meal on Valentine’s Day. Customers can indulge in a three-course dinner for $60 per person or a five-course meal for $80. They can pair three wines with the three-course meal for another $15 or drink five wines for $25 with the five-course meal. The restaurant will take reservations on Feb. 14 for 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. seatings. “Valentine’s Day is probably one of our more popular days,” Vintage 95 general manager Grant Rembis said. “Wine and romance kind of goes together.”
The three- and five-course meals both include the same choices for entrees. Diners can choose either seared monk fish; roasted French chicken breast or baseballcut sirloin. Rembis said about 200 people came to the restaurant for Valentine’s Day last year. He said the candles, fireplace inside and fire pits outside make it romantic. D’Vine Bistro & Wine Bar in Chandler and Mesa is also offering a special, three-course dinner for Valentine’s Day. The Chandler restaurant’s on South Alma School Road. The three-course meal is $45 per person See
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AJ’s at San Marcos Golf Resort expands menu past Sunday brunch BY MIKE BUTLER AFN Staff Writer
U
ntil recently, if anyone thought of AJ’s Restaurant inside the San Marcos Golf Resort at all, it was for the occasional splurge on the lavish Sunday brunch. Not anymore. Word is quickly getting around that AJ’s is open for lunch and dinner again—and how good the food is. Hungry downtown workers and visitors have new outlets manager Nicole Coughlin and new executive chef Wilson Ferrufino to thank for that. “We get a great breakfast crowd because we’re a hotel,” she said. “We love to see the locals come out for lunch and dinner.” Bolivia-born Ferrufino has created a bright, contemporary American menu with a hint of Latino spice and Southwest heat. The all-day menu (11 a.m. to 11 p.m.) has a long list of appetizers that are meant to be shared. Try the smoked pork sliders, which are topped with a roasted corn slaw and a dollop of Jack Daniel’s barbecue sauce. Ferrufino turns the quesadilla upside
(Mike Butler/AFN Staff)
Executive chef Wilson Ferrufino created an all-new contemporary American menu for AJ’s Restaurant inside the historic San Marcos Golf Resort in downtown Chandler.
down, or perhaps inside out, by rolling it and then slicing it. It’s stuffed with a delicious medley of roasted poblanos, pepper jack
cheese, pico de gallo, guacamole, lime crema and your choice of grilled chicken breast or carnitas.
Another must-have is the crispy potatoes. Ferrufino roasts red potatoes on a bed of kosher salt and lets them cool down before smashing them slightly. The potatoes then get flash-fried and presented with a garlicky tequila-lime aioli for dipping. The street tacos are a lunch and dinner favorite. Choose fried or grilled fish, carnitas or grilled chicken. If only a burger will do, go for the half-pound Arizona burger, topped with applewood-smoked bacon and crispy onion straws. In a nod to the hotel’s Mediterranean architecture and ambiance, Ferrufino offers a chicken breast Milanessa and a roasted vegetable penne pasta. There’s much to like for salad lovers. You can opt for a tried-and true chopped or Caesar, or go off the beaten path with the jicama-citrus and brussels-kale-quinoa salads. The chopped salad includes grilled chicken breast; you can add grilled chicken or seared salmon to the others. Ferrufino has a thing for ice cream. Who doesn’t, really? It figures prominently in the San Marcos pie, the old-school banana See
AJS on page 48
Participating Locations Eat Breakfast Here Crisp Greens
Eat Lunch Here
Support The Arts In Chandler! Restaurants help by donating a percentage of their proceeds to the Chandler Center for the Arts on that day. You help by eating at one or more of the participating restaurants. Funds from Eat Your Art Out Chandler will go to support various programs at the Center including the Free Summer Concert Series and the Connecting Kidz programs.
For more information:
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
National Hot Rod Association shares love affair with the Valley BY TIM J. RANDALL Getout Contributing Writer
W
hen the 33rd annual National Hot Rod Association Arizona Nationals come to Chandler Feb.24-25, fans will bear witness to a mutual lovefest. “This is a very special event for NHRA,” said Glen Cromwell, NHRA vice president of national event marketing. “Phoenix is a really strong market and has a very
passionate racing community.” Set for Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, the NHRA Arizona Nationals is the second leg of the annual 24-event circuit NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series. Professional drivers will put their skills on display for patrons who enjoy speed, speed and more speed. “We reach up to 330 miles per hour,” said driver Tommy Johnson Jr. “I drive the Make-A-Wish Dodge Charger R/T Funny Car. I look forward to coming to Phoenix, I have raced year every year since the late 1980s, and it is great to see how the event and area have grown.” The Funny Car drag is one of a slew of events that includes the Top Fuel race and Pro Stock competition. “This is not your stick and ball sports experience,” Cromwell said. “Every ticket is an all-access pit pass. We are eight hours of interaction where
fans can get close to the action and talk to the racers, see what they are doing and get their autographs.” Last year was strong for the NHRA, which boasted five sell-out events. “This year, we expect 100,000 attendees over three days,” he said. “Fox and Fox Sports One will be our new television partners as well.” Patrons can see Johnson in the Funny Car race, won last year by Tim Wilkerson on his way toward two Mello Yello victories. In Top Fuel, Leah Pritchett and Brittany Force will attempt to have a rematch of their epic 2016 race, which was the first all-female showdown in Top Fuel since 1982 and only the fourth in Mello Yello Pro-Class Series history. “It is the happiest day of my life, besides getting married, of course,” Pritchett said about last year’s win. “I feel like I just won the Super Bowl, even though it’s only the second race and it’s not the U.S. Nationals. For me, it an incredible personal and professional victory.”
In Pro Stock, last year’s winner Jason Line streaked out of the gates fast, eventually capturing eight Mellow Yello titles. “It will be great to come back to Phoenix and try to defend my win from last year,” Line said. “Phoenix is a very good place to come and participate and I have been doing it as long as I have been a racing professional.” In addition to the racing, guests can tour the NHRA Nitro Alley and Manufacturers Midway. Sponsors and race vendors will create a carnival atmosphere, with interactive displays, simulated competitions, merchandise, food and fun for the family.
(Special to AFN)
Cool and fast cars will be thrilling fans at the 33rd annual National Hot Rod Association Arizona Nationals this month.
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Where: Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, 20000 S. Maricopa Road, Chandler. Info: 877-840-0457, racewildhorse. ticketforce.com. When: 9:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 24; 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, and 9 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 26. Cost: $34-$61.
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FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
Melody is King for Branford Marsalis concert at Scottsdale Center KENNETH LAFAVE GETOUT Contributing Writer
says. For a project emphasizing melody, Marsalis needed a singer. And the choice etting back to the basics of melody was easy: “Kurt Elling is one of the few modern jazz is no easy job. Ask Branford singers whose background vocabulary is a Marsalis. “My definition of melody is a sequence jazz vocabulary,” compared with many jazz of notes so strong that, if every other singers’ pop and indie rock backgrounds. “That gives us the possibility of making aspect of the music fell apart, people would still want to hear it,” says the famed this a real quintet, instead of just a quartet saxophonist, who, years ago, turned his with a singer out front.” The integration of Elling’s vocals into the back on the easy fame of leading “The Tonight Show” band to devote his time to fabric of the quartet, with its many layers of exploring the present and possible future melody, is one of the great achievements of the album. of jazz. “A second thing Kurt has going to the Marsalis, his quartet, and jazz vocal ability to change phenomenon Kurt the color of his Elling will appear in voice to match concert Sunday, Feb. the emotion of 12, at the Scottsdale the song. That’s Center for the a quality usually Performing Arts. associated only The concert is part with opera of a tour promoting singers.” Marsalis’s and The choice of Elling’s Grammy(Special to AFN) songs centered nominated album, Branford Marsalis will be bringing his sound to on Marsalis’ “Upward Spiral.” Scottsdale Center for the Arts Sunday. insistence on The album was meant to point the way back to melody, melody as the prime ingredient. “When you talk about great composers Marsalis says. “Modern jazz is not melodic. It has almost and songwriters, there’s only a handful no melodies at all,” he asserts, and that’s a a people who can come up with great mistake. People want good melody. Good melodies,” Marsalis says. “Sting comes to melody and a good beat. That’s why when mind. Beethoven too.” There’s no Beethoven on “Upward Spiral,” you say the name ‘Ravel,’ people think of but Sting is represented by “Practical ‘Bolero,’” and not any of his other music.” Much of jazz evolved out of harmonic Arrangement.” The songs go back to the progressions, with soloists doing takes 1930s, with Gershwin’s “There’s a Boat That’s on the chords of a song, emphasizing the Leaving Soon for New York,” and on up to harmony over the melody, though the solo Sting and the rock singer-songwriter Chris itself was the creation of a kind of melody. Whitley’s “From One Island to Another.” From somewhere in between come most For “Upward Spiral,” Marsalis says he was looking for songs with melodic lines not of the remainder. The ’50s are especially generated from chord progressions, but well represented: “Blue Gardenia,” a jazz standard made popular in 1955 by able to stand on their own. “This is not a case against harmony. But Dinah Washington; “Blue Velvet,” a song harmony’s place in the food chain has been introduced by Tony Bennett in 1951, but misplaced. It’s secondary, not primary,” he made wildly popular by Bobby Vinton a few years later; and “Doxy,” written for Miles Davis by jazz saxophonist Sonny Rollins in 1957. There are a few surprises as well, Where: Scottsdale Center for the especially “Momma Said,” which is not a Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., song at all but a poem by Calvin Forbes, Scottsdale. spoken instead of sung by Elling, backed When: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 12. by improvisation from Marsalis and his Tickets: $35-$69. quartet, and completely lacking a melody, Info: 480-499-8587, despite the album’s stated theme. scottsdaleperformingarts.org.
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split and the soothing Ghirardelli warm brownie sundae. For the few hours AJ’s is closed between lunch and dinner, diners can order food from the cozy 1912 Bar & Lounge in the lobby. Guests are also welcome to sit out on the patio overlooksinga lush courtyard. Built in 1912 by Dr. AJ Chandler, the San Marcos just started offering a $12.95 daily twilight menu from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Start with a house salad or soup of the day. Entree choices are steak chimichurri, mahi mahi with pineapple salsa, grilled pork chop and roasted vegetable chicken tortellini. Coughlin’s and Ferrufino’s updating impulses extended to breakfast, too. There’s a buffet but no brunch, except for Easter, Mother’s Day and Thanksgiving. If the buffet doesn’t appeal, try the Southwestinspired omelet verde, California breakfast burrito or the San Marcos benedict— English muffin, poached eggs, carnitas, roasted peppers and chipotle hollandaise. Before coming to Chandler, Ferrufino worked in San Diego at the Hard Rock Hotel, Hilton and other properties managed by Evolution Hospitality, which also operates the Crowne Plaza Chandler.
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
Irish dancing, rose auction coming up BY JUSTIN FERRIS GETOUT EDITOR
Hale presents Twain in ‘Is He Dead?’
“Is he Dead?,” Mark Twain’s hilarious story of an artist who fakes his death to increase the value of his paintings and then pretends to be his own sister, comes to the stage for its final weekend of performances. DETAILS>> Times vary, WednesdaySaturday, Feb. 8-11. Hale Centre Theatre, 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert. Tickets: $18-$42. 480497-1181. haletheatrearizona.com.
Beer Week on tap
During Arizona Beer Week, you can find beer-related activities from the Strong Beer Festival to seminars, pub crawls, and specials at local bars and
establishments all around the Valley. DETAILS>> Times vary, Thursday, Feb. 9 to Feb. 18. Locations vary. Cost varies. arizonabeerweek.com.
DETAILS>> 6:30-8:30 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 11. Red Mountain Park, 7745 E. Brown Road, Mesa. Cost: Free. mesaaz.gov/biceped.
Highland Yard opens
The popular monthly market returns in February with a popular “Love!” theme. Shop for unique Valentine’s Day items and other vintage and handmade home decorations from 30 local artisans. DETAILS>> 10 a.m.-evening, ThursdaySunday, Feb. 9-12. Behind Merchant Square, 1509 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Cost: Free. 480-622-0842. facebook.com/ Highlandyardvintage.
Rose auction blooming
Love roses? Bid on, or just look at, rose bushes that feature dazzling and unique colors carrying names like “Eternal Flame,” “Silver Star,” “All My Loving,” “Drop Dead Red” and tons more. DETAILS>> Noon, Saturday, Feb. 11. Mesa Community College, 1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa. Entry cost: Free. roses4az-mevrs.org/rose-auction.
Sweethearts hit Main Street
Swing dance, eat treats, let the kids make a Valentine craft and plenty more at Mesa’s See
CALENDAR on page 49
‘Minions’ at the park
Ride your bike—or drive—to the park for a free screening of the family-friendly movie “Minions.” Bring a blanket or chairs. Complimentary popcorn provided.
ANSWERS TO PUZZLES AND SUDOKU from page 50
GET OUT
FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
CALENDAR
from page 48
monthly 2nd Friday Night. This month’s theme is “Sweethearts on Main.” DETAILS>> 6-10 p.m., Friday, Feb. 10. Main
Street, Mesa between Central and Country Club. Cost: Free. 2ndfridaynightout.com.
Browse book sale
Browse more than half a million books at seriously reduced prices at the 61st annual VSNA Used Book Sale. Rare books, vinyl records and other interesting items will be available as well. Show up Sunday for 50 percent off almost everything. DETAILS>> 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday-Sunday, Feb. 11-12. Arizona State Fairgrounds, 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix. Cost: Free. vnsabooksale.org.
Swingsational presented
The Salt River Brass presents the music of the Big Band era, including the work of Count Basie,
Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller and Woody Herman. DETAILS>> 3 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 12. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa. Tickets: $17$24. 480-644-6500. mesaartscenter.com.
Irish dancing featured
”Rhythm of the Dance” aims to sweep you off to glorious Ireland at this presentation of contemporary and ancient Celtic music, song and dance. It features a live band, three tenors and 22 dancers. DETAILS>> 3 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 12. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Tickets: $38-$44. 480-7822680. chandlercenter.org.
VALENTINE
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from page 44
and for the entrée, diners can choose from filet mignon with a cocoa and chili rub or sea scallops sautéed and served over saffron risotto with champagne-vanillainfused vinaigrette. “I did look for items that are considered aphrodisiacs for this menu,” D’Vine Bistro executive chef Ramon Rice said. “People still absolutely love date night.” From Feb. 10-14, Thirsty Lion will offer several Valentine’s Day specials including bronzed mahi mahi with passion fruit Beurre blanc, as well as rice and Asian vegetables for $22.95. Grilled salmon cakes with Sriracha aioli, balsamic marinated tomatoes and arugula will be $9.95 and peppercorn beef tenderloin ribs with white cheddar mashed potatoes will be $20.95. To coincide with Arizona Beer Week, Valentine’s Day diners can buy six beers for $10 from Feb. 9-18 at Thirsty Lion. The restaurant in Tempe is in the Tempe Marketplace mall on East Rio Salado Parkway. Thirsty Lion appeals to people who want a more casual place to “hang out and have fun,” Thirsty Lion marketing director J.K. Kahl said.
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
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FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
Sports
@AhwatukeeFN |
@AhwatukeeFN
www.ahwatukee.com
Desert Vista High girls soccer hopes for title shot BY JASON P. SKODA AFN PREP SPORTS DIRECTOR
T
he senior class in the Desert Vista girls soccer program received a bonus home match at Thunder Stadium. Thanks to a 6A Conference firstround upset by No. 13 Sandra Day O’Connor, the fifth-seeded Thunder played Saturday’s quarterfinal match at home. And as they tend to do this time of year, Desert Vista played a complete 80 minutes in beating the Eagles 2-0. “We love playing here and getting another home game was a great chance for us to keep playing where we are comfortable,” senior Lauren Schooler said. “It’s my senior year and I wouldn’t want to play anywhere else.” The Thunder always looks at home in the playoffs as it advances to at least the semifinals for the third time in four years—it made the state finals but lost in two overtimes to Highland. But it broke through last season to win the program’s second state title with a penalty kick over Hamilton. Desert Vista (20-3-1) faces No. 9 Corona del Sol, after the Aztecs (17-6) upset No. 1 Hamilton 2-1. The game at Campo Verde High has a 5 p.m. kickoff. Sixth-seeded Perry faces No. 2 Xavier in the other semifinal at 7 p.m., with the championship game
a perfectly placed pass from Carly Bych for the two-goal advantage. “It started from the back and perfectly executed,” Vasey said. “We just keep playing and working our hardest. It starts on the practice field, and that’s where it builds. There is a lot of talent on this team and if everyone does their part I think we can do it.” Desert Vista lost defender Izzy Deutsch to an ankle injury and her availability for the semifinals is unknown. But the way the back end of the formation has played—eight goals allowed in 24 matches— (Jason Skoda/AFN staff) and the way the team can Desert Vista High’s Emma Budge gets positioning while waiting possess the ball and win on a pass in the Thunder’s 2-0 win over Sandra Day O’Connor in 50-50 balls, the Thunder the 6A quarterfinals on Saturday. appears in good shape the rest of the way. Saturday at 2:30 p.m. at Campo Verde. “We have an experienced The Thunder got past Sandra Day group,” Thunder coach Marvin Hypolite O’Connor (9-10-3) as a result of two said. “You make adjustments; we put in first-half goals. subs and don’t skip a beat. I really like The first was by Elizabeth Vasey, who what my subs were able to do. They kept followed on a rebound on her own shot the momentum. I don’t think SDO had when it got away from the SDO goalie, any dangerous shots on goal. They went in 15th minute. Then Schooler was given in and controlled the flow of the game.”
The focus turns to Corona, a team the Thunder beat 1-0 in the last week of the season at Corona. “At this stage in this game everyone is going to come with high intensity,” Hypolite said. “It’s about us coming together, producing and executing. Corona is a hungry team, but my bet is on us, of course.” Playoff soccer, especially in the final two rounds of the state tournament, is a different game. An early lead can feel like two goals, and a late lead creates a frenzied, hectic pace that can lead to mistakes or a lot offensive chances. The Thunder has been on both sides of it in recent years and looks to be prepared no matter how the matches play out the rest of the way. Dsert Vista has the offense, led by Paige Maling (13 goals, 8 assists) and Bych (11 goals, 6 assists); They also have the ability to possess the ball, terrific goalie play with junior Amanda Green and senior Kamrie Gunderson) and the experience of both winning and losing on the biggest stage. “We’re one big family and we have unity,” Schooler said. “We all work for each other. Corona is a good team, they play hard and any team can win on any given day, and we have to come out with the same intensity with have all year and finish the season just like we did last year.”
Large continent of Ahwatukee athletes sign with colleges BY JASON P. SKODA AFN PREP SPORTS DIRECTOR
J
aydon Brooks had a preconceived idea before the plane even landed. Military academies are portrayed on TV and movies as strict environments where cadets are in uniforms and they
are marching everywhere they go with a drill sergeant continuously in their face. Then he made it on base in Annapolis, Maryland, for an official visit at the U.S. Naval Academy and his perception immediately changed. “Going out there made a huge difference,” the Mountain Pointe High
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two-sport athlete said. “When you think of military academies you think about uniforms and people marching everywhere. It’s much more laid back than you think, and I felt very comfortable there.” He also understands that trying to play two sports—wide receiver and
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SIGNINGS on page 52
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SPORTS
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
SIGNINGS
girls basketball player Jenise Strover (Clemson), girls golfer Kayla Kelsen from page 51 (Chandler-Gilbert Community College) worn uniforms and been in a strict and track horizontal jumper Nura environment.” Muhammad (Oklahoma). Brooks was one of several athletes from Brooks said as he looked at the group Ahwatukee schools who were able to of athletes sitting together during the continue their athletic careers at the next ceremony, he felt like it should end a level and were celebrated by their schools negative perception that has been floated on Feb. 1 with ceremonies. about Mountain Pointe. Mountain Pointe had 15 athletes “Honestly it is a big thing to have that commit and sign letters of intent to play many seniors signing with colleges,” at the next level, while Desert Vista High he said. “It’s actually really cool and saw 19 individuals sign the dotted line. goes against what people think about The Pride had 12 football players, Mountain Pointe. Look at how many including four to Phoenix College and people are signing. No matter what four to area junior colleges, along with college you are being accepted at, you are good enough of an athlete to make it and smart enough to be accepted there. It goes against what people think about Mountain Pointe.” At Desert Vista, the girls soccer team had a large contingent sign letters of intent while softball, track, golf and football (Special to AFN) were all represented Some of Mountain Pointe High’s senior athletes assembled at the school at the ceremony. last week for a celebration on signing day. The Thunder girls
(Special to AFN)
Mountain Pointe’s Nura Muhammad holds flowers after announcing her signing. Accompanying her were, from left, Pride coach Larry Todd, her mom, Tonie Stephens, and Pride coach Tim O’Neil.
soccer program continues to produce college-level players as seven girls from this year’s squad are going to playing all over the country next year. Carly Bych (Regis University), Izzy Deutsch (Hawaii), Karli Epstein (Northern St), Jessica Hale (Arizona State University), Olive Jones (Arizona St.), Paige Maling (Northern Arizona), Ellie Vasey (Portland State University)
DESERT VISTA
FOOTBALL
Lelon Dillard - Southern Utah State Riley Erickson - U.S. Air Force Academy Nick Thomas - U.S. Air Force Academy Myles Wilson - University Of San Diego Daniel Woodis - Adams State GOLF
Arianna Medina - Oklahoma City University Brian Seo - Grand Canyon University Tyler Svendson - New Mexico State SOCCER
Caroline Bych - Regis University, Colorado Isabel Deutch - University Of Hawaii Karli Epstein - Northern State University Jessica Hale - Arizona State University Paige Maling - Northern Arizona University Ellie Vasey - Portland State University Lauren Votto - Northern Arizona University Olive Jones - Arizona State University Greg Samuels - Cal State Fullerton SOFTBALL
Sia Hornbuckle - Delaware State University
and Lauren Votto (Northern Arizona University) all signed. Arianna Medina (Oklahoma City University), Brian Seo (Grand Canyon) and Tyler Svendson (New Mexico) will keep hitting fairway at the next level. “It’s an honor to get a chance to keep playing the game I love,” Svendson said back in December before settling on New Mexico. “It’s what all athletes hope for and for it to become a reality is humbling and it makes you want to get even better because of the faith the coaches had in you.”
MOUNTAIN POINTE
GIRLS BASKETBALL
Jenise Strover - Clemson FOOTBALL
Jaydon Brooks - U.S. Naval Academy Xaiver Cota - Scottsdale Community College Connor Dry - Glendale Community College Noah Grover - Phoenix College Rashie Hodge - South Dakota State Justice Hudson - Phoenix College Patrick Isbell - Phoenix College Hunter Pawlak - Scottsdale Community COLLEGE
Isaiah Pola Mao - USC Rudy Rauls - Phoenix College Eddie Rivas - Northern Arizona University Michael Washington - Scottsdale Community College GOLF
TRACK & FIELD
Kayla Kelsen - Chandler-Gilbert Community College
Ryan Bender - University Of Pennsylvania
Nura Muhammad - Oklahoma University
TRACK & FIELD
FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
Gil better-rounded after developing technique
BY JASON P. SKODA AFN PREP SPORTS DIRECTOR
W
hen Brendan Gil walks on the wrestling mat, the physique he has worked hard to attain can’t help but be the first thing noticed before the match starts. The Desert Vista High School senior is ripped. In a sport like wrestling, a singlet filled with muscles can be an intimidating ally, but he isn’t so big that he couldn’t fall into a trap. Less mentally-strong wrestlers are halfway defeated before the whistle even starts the match, but the bigger issue can be the mental strain it can have on someone as strong as Gil. There are certain moves that require brute strength to pull off effectively and there was a time when it was a crutch for Gil. “I relied on it, and even tried to set it up so I could use it,” he said. “It was the easy thing to do instead of working for something else.” He won enough matches that way to be a solid wrestler, and he made state his sophomore and junior seasons but didn’t have much success against the more advances wrestlers. Top wrestlers make better use of technical skills, know how to use leverage, are comfortable winning matches in the third period because of conditioning and know how to fend off and stay out of precarious positions against stronger competitors. So if Gil was going to do more than beat the wrestlers he was supposed to, the 182-pounder knew something had to change. It started last year when the coaches’ constant message that he had to become a more complete wrestler started to settle in.
good things would happen,” Thunder coach David Gonzales said, adding: “It’s good that you have, and use it when it available, but you win more matches by being in shape and using technical moves. He’s showed that. He wrestled smart and got a good takedown and finished him off early.” The more impressive win came in the semifinals, when Gil beat Sunnyside’s No. 1 seed Joey Hernandez 3-2 to get to the championship match. Hernandez beat Gil in their previous two matchups. “It finally got through my thick skull that I needed to step it up if I actually wanted to be good,” said Gil, who is 29-10 on the season. “I am seeing the benefit of it now. It’s a confidence boost knowing I’ve come so far since last year.” The Thunder advanced 10 to the state tournament, which gets underway Friday Prescott Valley and (Jason Skoda/AFN Staff) in finishes up Saturday with Desert Vista High School senior Brendan Gil flips over a wrestler. He has developed his wrestling technique to go along the 4 p.m. finals at Prescott with this strength to become a sectional champion and a top Valley Event Center. seed at the state tournament. Desert Vista had two other sectional champions And it was on full display on Saturday in defending state champion when Gil won the Division I, Section Chad Porter (195) and heavyweight Brett III 182-pound title with a pin against Johnson. Preston Cameau (152), Brett Hamilton’s Donovan Corn in the finals. Johnson (220) and Jordan Martinez Gil showed a technical side that allowed (113), who defaulted in the finals as a him to a get an early takedown and a nice precaution due to a season-long injury, pinning combination to deck Corn. were runner-ups. “We told him when he became a Mountain Pointe qualified two wrestler and didn’t use his brute strength, wrestlers out of the Division I, Section I
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State Wrestling Schedule
When: Thursday-Saturday Where: Prescott Valley Event Center Who: Top four sectional placers per sectional tournament (4) in each weight class Tickets: $15.00 adult all day pass; $13.00 senior/military all day pass; $5.00 student all day pass; Children five and under admitted free. SCHEDULE
Division I: Session I: Friday, 11:30 a.m. Session II: Saturday, 10 a.m. Medal Rounds: Saturday, 4 p.m. Division II: Session I: Friday, 11:30 a.m. Session II: Saturday, 10 a.m. Medal Rounds: Saturday, 4 p.m. Division III: Session I: Thursday, 10:30 a.m. Session II: Thursday, 6 p.m. Session II: Friday, 10 a.m. Medal Rounds: Friday, 7 p.m. Division IV: Session I: Thursday, 10:30 a.m. Session II: Thursday, 6 p.m. Session II: Friday, 10 a.m. Medal Rounds: Friday, 7 p.m. sectional at Valley Vista. Senior Jacob Rasmussen defaulted in the finals to finish as runner-up at 160 pounds and takes a 41-8 record into the state tournament, while sophomore Keegan Arthur finished fourth at 106. Rasmussen, who finished fifth at state last year, said he injured his back in the finals match against Desert Ridge’s Cody Lewis after coming down awkward in a match he was losing 1-0 in the second period. “I came down weird and I tweaked my back,” he said, “Definitely should be good for state.”
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
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Employment
(Will Powers/Special to AFN)
Curtis Smith’s Lazer 900 machine uses a screen, basketball, tennis ball and traffic cones to help a player work in ball handling.
Persistence pays off for inventor, entrepreneur Curtis Smith BY RYAN CLARKE AFN STAFF WRITER
Curtis Smith’s career didn’t start on a basketball court. It began with a candy bar. “When I was eight, I made a Skittles candy bar, and I sent it to the corporation thinking I was going to be rich,” he said. “They actually sent back a letter and I was so hyped, but the letter said, ‘Sorry Curtis, we appreciate your enthusiasm but we can’t accept outside ideas.’” Smith’s first rejection in the business world was bittersweet, and it certainly wasn’t his last. But through it all, a positive outlook and persistence paved the way toward his latest invention: The Lazer 900, a machine that helps basketball players with their ball handling in an unconventional way. The Lazer 900 displays dribble moves on a screen for players to mimic, much like the once-popular video game “Guitar Hero” had players mimic the notes as they came rolling forward. Smith’s machine poses a much greater physical challenge, though, invoking the use of a basketball, tennis ball and cones. Smith recently debuted the Lazer 900 at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas and has contracts with major college programs, including Kentucky, UCLA and Michigan State, along with a handful of NBA teams. Smith’s ambitions for the company are
picking up momentum, but the journey didn’t come without roadblocks. While the Mountain Pointe High garad has an enduring entrepreneurial spirit, basketball has always been an integral part of his life. Those two passions crossed over when his basketball career came to a close after stops at Scottsdale Community College and Texas Southern University. For months, Smith trained young basketball players in the East Valley, but he soon grew tired of the tedium. “It just got so boring to do the same thing over and over again. It was mundane,” Smith said. “I went into my mom’s garage and started thinking of an idea, and that’s when I came up with the Lazer 900.” Smith’s persistence led to over a dozen college programs buying the machine, and in May he will present it to the NBA combine to use the machine as an aptitude test for players trying to make the jump to the pros. Smith said he’s hoping the NBA is willing to take a risk on him and continue innovating as it has in so many areas. Teams and players that use it have to put egos and tradition by the wayside, according to Smith. “Right now, it’s like the pool at the hotel,” Smith said. “It seems like fun, but some people are reluctant because they’re uncomfortable or they don’t know how.”
KYRENE is now hiring School BUS DRIVERS FT 30 hrs/wk. Benefits offered. Paid training and CDL testing onsite. Flexible work schedule with split shifts. Starting Salary $14.49 - $18.00 For additional info go to www.kyrene.org/hr
EARN EXTRA INCOME! $100 to $200 per week. The Arizona Republic wants to contract you to deliver newspaper on the weekends in the East Valley and Apache Junction. For additional details, contact Bob Griner at 602-444-4069 or rgriner@republicmedia. com.
Receptionist Position FT/PT - Animal Hospital Committed to the human-animal bond? If you have customer service experience, this is the place for you! For more information please call Lori 480-759-9494 www.familyvetcare.com
HIRING?
If someone Needs a Job, They Look Everyday! For a Quote email: class@times publications.com
480-898-6465
Employment General Landscape laborers, 12 temporary full-time positions. Duties: Laborers will be needed for turf care, pruning, fertilization, irrigation system maintenance and repair, general clean up procedure around properties. Outdoor work, physical work. 3 months landscape EXP REQ. No EDU REQ. Days & Hours: 40 hours/week (6:00am-2:30pm); day shift; Mon-Fri. Dates of employment: 04/01/1711/30/17. Wage: $11.74 /h, OT $17.61 /h if necessary. Raises, bonuses, or incentives dependent on job performance. OJT provided. Assurances: Transportation (including meals and, to the extent necessary, lodging) to the place of employment will be provided, or its cost to workers reimbursed, if the worker completes half the employment period. Return transportation will be provided if the worker completes the employment period or is dismissed early by the employer. Employer will provide workers at no charge all tools, equipment and supplies required to perform the job. Job location: Chandler, Arizona - Maricopa and Pinal counties, AZ. Employer will provide daily transportation to and from the worksite.
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Deadlines
Classifieds: Monday 11am for Wednesday • Life Events: Friday 10am for Wednesday
Announcements Lessons/ Tutoring PIANO LESSONS - Ahw. teacher w/ yrs of exp. Has few openings for new students. All ages beg-adv. Very reasonable rates. Avail M-Sat. (480)496-9154
Lost & Found Lost Cat Gray tabby in the area of 24th Street and Liberty. Hefty guy named Clark. Missing since Jan 26. Please call or text 480-570-3280 or 480-570-3290
Employment General Diversified Roofing Corp 2015 W Mountain View Rd PHX AZ 85021 seeks 50 “temporary full-time” Helpers of Roofer to work&reside in PHX Metropolitan area to use hand/elect tools,clean gen work area/equip in res constr.Bend, lift&hold up 50Lb, work in ext weather, 3mo exp, on-the-job train avail, no edu nor travel reqd M-F 7am-3pm @$13.38/hr If needed OT @$20.07 4/1 to 11/15/17. US&H2B workers offered same wages& working conditions to include paid post-hired drug test Sgle wrkwk computes wages.40hr/w.Weekly pmt. H2B Wrkr to be paid U.S. Consulate, border, lodging fees on 1st workwk on a company check. “Transportation (including meals & to the extent necessary lodging) to place of employment or its cost to workers reimbursed, if the worker completes half the employment period. Return transportation provided if the worker completes employment period or is dismissed early by employer” Tools provided at no charge to worker” Apply in person at nearest SWA, call 520.866.3608 fax res 520.836.5876 Attn: Desirae Diaz or fax res to emplr 602.870.4943 Attn:Cindy Leffler RE JP2516499. Landscape laborer, 20 temporary full-time positions. Duties: Laborers will be needed for turf care, pruning, fertilization, irrigation systems maintenance and repair, general clean up procedures around properties. Outdoor work, physical work. 3 months landscape EXP REQ. No EDU REQ. Drug testing REQ. Days & Hours: 40 hours/week (6:00am-2:30pm); day shift; Mon-Fri. Dates of employment: 04/01/1711/30/17. Wage: $11.74 /h, OT $17.61 /h if necessary. Raises, bonuses, or incentives dependent on job performance. Assurances: Transportation (including meals and, to the extent necessary, lodging) to the place of employment will be provided, or its cost to workers reimbursed, if the worker completes half the employment period. Return transportation will be provided if the worker completes the employment period or is dismissed early by the employer. Employer will provide workers at no charge all tools, equipment and supplies required to perform the job. Job location: Mesa, AZ - Maricopa and Pinal counties, AZ.
Applicants may send or contact the AZDES Office, 4635 S Central Ave, Phoenix AZ, 85040. Desirae Diaz ph:520-866- 3608. Please reference AZDES Job Order #: 2526897.
Applicants may send or contact the AZDES Office, 4635 S Central Ave, Phoenix AZ, 85040. Desirae Diaz ph:520-866- 3608. Please reference AZDES Job Order #: 2527042.
Employer: Evergreen Turf, Inc. 11407 E. Germann, Chandler, Arizona 85286. Contact: Josh Fox, fax (480) 456-4699.
Employer: Ronning Landscaping, Inc. 535 East McKellips Road, Ste. 127, Mesa, Arizona 85203. Contact: Robert Ronning, fax (480) 946-1410.
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Meetings/Events PARENTS OF ADDICTED LOVED ONES Are you affected by someone who is dealing with an addiction? If so, know that you are not alone and that the PAL (Parents of Addicted Loved Ones) group can help. The group is available to provide education and support to anyone 18 years or older who is dealing with a friend or family member with an addiction. See our local meeting list at palgroup.org Dining For Women (DFW) diningforwomen.org inspires, educates and engages people to invest in programs that make a meaningful difference for women and girls living in extreme poverty. DFW helps women find dignity and strength, develop skills and opportunities, value and support their children's education. We have a local chapter in Ahwatukee which meets the 3rd Thursday every month from 6:30 p.m.-8:30p.m. If you'd like to know more on how you can transform lives and reduce poverty contact Mary Hake at marysullivanhake @gmail.com
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS SENIOR ASSOCIATION (AFSA) Attention: Seniors 55+ --- become a member of AFSA. Mark your calendars for the first Thursdayof every month and enjoy meeting new friends, have a delicious lunch, and be entertained. This all takes place at the Sheraton Four Points Hotel located at 51st St. and Elliot Rd. in Phoenix. Doors open at 11am and lunch is at Noon. Cost is $15. For further information and details, please call Sue McCann at (480) 469-9388.
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
Merch andise Garage Sales/ Bazaars HUGE GARAGE SALE! Tools, lawn equipment household items, antiques, electronics, musical equipment, automotive, dodge tail gate. Saturday 2/11 7am. 3622 E. Goldfinch Gate Ln.
Pets/Services A FRIEND OF MINE
Your in-home pet sitting and plant care service. For all your pet needs, domestic and exotics. Flat fee-no hidden costs. Serving Ahwatukee since 2003. Member of PSI. Bond/Ins'd. 602-617-0993 Please visit us at afriend ofminepetsitting.com
Pets/Services
Homes For Sale
Voted one of the “Best of Ahwatukee” 9 Years Running!
Service Directory
Pet and Home Services
• Reasonable Rates • Special Pricing on Extended Service Licensed/Bonded/Insured Ahwatukee Resident
Air Conditioning/Heating
Call Eleanor Today!
480.287.4897 Employment General Erickson Framing AZ LLC 250 N Beck Ave Chandler AZ 85226 seeks 60 “temporary fulltime” Helpers of Carpenter to work&reside in PHX Metroplex area to do manual &physical duties, use, supply hold materials &tools, clean wrk area. Bend, lift&hold up 50Lb 3mo exp in Res constr, work in ext weather, no on-the-job train avail, no edu reqd, travel in Metropolitan area M-F 7am-3pm @$ 15.81/hr OT if needed @$ 23.72 from 4/1 to 12/15/17. US&H2B workers offered same wages& working conditions to include paid post-hired drug test Sgle wrkwk computes wages Weekly pmt. H2B wrkr to be paid U.S Consulate,border,lodging fees on 1st workwk on a company check. “Transportation (including meals & to the extent necessary lodging) to place of employment or its cost to workers reimbursed, if the worker completes half the employment period. Return transportation provided if the worker completes employment period or is dismissed early by employer. Tools provided at no charge to worker” Apply in person at nearest SWA, call520.866.3608 or fax res 520.836.5876 Attn Desirae Diaz or fax res to emplr 480.627.1152 Att Reed Graham RE JP2515410
Diversified Roofing Corp.2015 W Mountain View Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85021 seeks 40 “temporary full-time” Roofers to work&reside in PHX Metroplex area.Cover roofs in res constr with shingles,slate, aspha, alum, wood. Spray roofs/sidings/walls.Bind, seal, insulate, soundproof secti.Bend, lift&hold up 50Lb, 3mo exp in Res constr, work in ext weather, on job train avail, no edu reqd, travel in PHX Metroplex area M-F 7am-3pm $17.32/hr OT if needed $25.98 from 4/1to 11/30/17. US&H2B workers offered same wages& working conditions to include paid post-hired drug test. Sgle wrkwk computes wages. Weekly pmt. H-2B Wrkr to be paid U.S. Consulate, border, lodging fees on 1st workwk on a company check “Transportation (including meals & to the extent necessary lodging) to place of employment or its cost to workers reimbursed, if the worker completes half the employment period. Return transportation provided if the worker completes employment period or is dismissed early by employer. Tools provided at no charge to worker” Apply in person at nearest SWA, call520.866.3608 or fax res 520.836.5876 Attn Desirae Diaz or fax res to empl r 602.870.4943 Att Cindy Leffler RE JP 2516409
Add a Background Color to Your Ad! Classifieds 480-898-6465
www.WhileYouAreAwayServices.com
MORE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE! www.Ahwatukee.com Employment General Erickson Framing AZ LLC 250 N Beck Ave Chandler AZ 85226 seeks 50 “temporary fulltime” Production helpers to work&reside in PHX Metroplex area to do manual &physical duties, use, supply hold materials &tools, clean wrk area. Bend, lift&hold up 50Lb 3mo exp in Res constr, work in ext weather, on-the-job train avail, no edu reqd, travel in Metropolitan area M-F 7am-3pm @$12.15/hr If needed OT @$ 18.23 4/1to 12/15/17. US&H2B workers offered same wages& working conditions to include paid post-hired drug test Sgle wrkwk computes wages Weekly pmt. H-2B Wrkr to be paid U.S. Consulate, border, lodging fees on 1st workwk on a company check “Transportation (including meals & to the extent necessary lodging) to place of employment or its cost to workers reimbursed, if the worker completes half the employment period. Return transportation provided if the worker completes employment period or is dismissed early by employer. Tools provided at no charge to worker” Apply in person at nearest SWA, call 520.866.3608 or fax res 520.836.5876 Attn Desirae Diaz or fax res to emplr 480.627.1152 Att Reed Graham RE JP: 2514048 Erickson Framing AZ LLC 250 N Beck Ave Chandler AZ 85226 seeks 60 “temporary fulltime” Helpers Carpenter to work&reside in Phoenix Metroplex area to help carpenters use, supply& hold hand/electr tools &materials, clean wk area. Bend, lift&hold up 50Lb 3mo exp in Res constr, work in ext weather, no on-the-job train avail, no edu reqd, travel in Metropolitan area M-F 7am-3pm @$15.81/hr OT if needed @$23.72 from 4/1 to 12/15/17. US&H2B workers offered same wages& working conditions to include paid post-hired drug test Sgle wrkwk computes wages Weekly pmt. H-2B Wrkr to be paid U.S. Consulate, border, lodging fees on 1st workwk on a company check “Transportation (including meals & to the extent necessary lodging) to place of employment or its cost to workers reimbursed, if the worker completes half the employment period. Return transportation provided if the worker completes employment period or is dismissed early by employer. Tools provided at no charge to worker” Apply in person at nearest SWA, call 520.866.3608 or fax res 520.836.5876 Attn Desirae Diaz or fax res to emplr 480.627.1152 Att Reed Graham RE JP 2514046
Appliance Repairs
Appliance Repair Now
If It’s Broken, We Can Fix It! • Same Day Service • On-Site Repairs • Servicing All Major Brands • Quality Guaranteed
We Also Buy Used Appliances, Working or Not
480-659-1400 Licensed & Insured Business/Professional Services
Roommates Looking For A Room To Rent During Winter Months in Ahw. Non-smoker. Please Call Wanda at 480-250-3085
MORE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE! www.Ahwatukee.com
CLASSIFIEDS
FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
Carpet Cleaning
Concrete & Masonry
DESERT ROCK Family owned and proudly serving Ahwatukee for over 20 years. Powerful Truck Mounted Soft Hot Water Extractions. Carpets, Tile & Grout, Upholstery, Pet Stain/Odor Treatment Residential/Commercial www.extractioncleaning.com 100% Satisfaction Guarantee!
480.460.5030
CONCRETE & MASONRY **********************
NEW INSTALLS / REPAIRS FOUNDATION, DRIVEWAY PATIO, WALKWAY
Crops of Luv
"My dream is that one day we will be able to give every "wish" child a scrapbook to remind them that dreams do come true."
Electrical Services
MIKE’S
DRYWALL, PAINTING & REMODELING SERVICE SPECIALIZING IN… • Water Damage • Drywall Repair • Popcorn & Wallpaper Removal
Since1980
• Int/Ext Painting • Patio & Carport Ceiling Resurfacing • Stucco Repairs
Licensed & Bonded ROC 130069
Jody, co-founder, Ahwatukee based nonprofit
BBQ, FIREPLACE BLOCK, STUCCO SPRINKLER
Come Join us: Help make embellishments, organize or assist with events, scrapbook, donate your time, money or space.
GRADING, REMOVAL WATERFALLS
Cleaning Services
Drywall
Meetings/Events
POOLS COOL DECKS
www.mikesdrywallservice.com
Electrical Services
Come be apart of something Awesome!
CALL JOHN 480-797-2985
Cropsofluv.com
FREE ESTIMATE
480.634.7763
16 YEARS EXP, REF
cropsofluv@cox.net
INSURED Not A Licensed Contractor
Classifieds 480-898-6465
Contractors
ADD COLOR TO YOUR AD! Ask Us. Call Classifieds Today! 480.898.6465 CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM
Concrete & Masonry
57
RENOVATION SOLUTIONS HOME IMPROVEMENT & RENOVATIONS
General Contractor 30 Years of Experience
Licensed, Bonded & Insured
HONESTY • INTEGRITY • QUALITY
- Ahw Resident Since 1987 -
• Panel Changes and Repairs • Installation of Ceiling Fans • Switches/Outlets • Home Remodel
ALL RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL Call Jim Endres 480.282.7932
Residential Electrician
Call Sean Haley 602-574-3354 ROC#277978 • Licensed/Bonded/Insured
You never know what you’ll find inside
Over 28 Years Experience • ROC #246019 Bonded/Insured
HOME
R E N O VAT I O N
• Additions • Alterations • Kitchen and bath remodeling specialists Ahwatukee resident
Contractors
480.898.6465
class@timespublications.com
480.848.9890
Garage/Doors
ROC#245469
FOOTHILLS GARAGE DOOR
Same Day Service Repair/Install All Major Brands
Call for Our Monthly Special Discount
• FREE ESTIMATES •
480-893-8091 Ahwatukee Resident • Dependable & Honest
ROC#126694
Bonded/Insured
58
CLASSIFIEDS
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
Garage/Doors
GARAGE DOORS Discount for Seniors & Veterans
FREE
Opener & Door Lubrication with Repair
SERVICE FEE WILL BE WAIVED WITH REPAIR
480-626-4497 www.lifetimegaragedoorsaz.com
Handyman
Handyman
Handyman
GARAGE DOOR SERVICE
R.HANDYMAN Rebuild: Under sink floors, drawers & shelving. All sm repairs, welding. Clean carpet traffic areas & stains. Fix: toilets, faucets, gates, doors.
Gary is Back Household Repairs
OLD FASHIONED
East Valley/ Ahwatukee
Unbeatable Customer Service & Lowest Prices Guaranteed!
10%
Garage/Doors
Broken Springs Replaced Nights/Weekends Bonded/Insured 480-251-8610
Not a licensed contractor
MISSED THE DEADLINE? Place your ad online! Call 480-898-6564
drywall, plumbing, small painting, varnish doors, grout cleaning,ceiling fans, roof turbines. 30 years experience
Handyman
Bob White's
QUALITY Home Repair
602-826-0424 References!
Not a licensed contractor
Gary 480-268-0380 ROC#183872, 227944
ROC095639 BOND/INS'D
Call Bob 480-893-9482
ACTION CONTRACTING INC. WE DO IT ALL!
Specializing in Remodeling & Repairng
- SINCE 1978 -
• Drywall & Stucco Repairs • Windows • Doors • Cabinets • Block Fences • Painting Wrought Iron Gates • Remodeling • Additions Plumbing • Patios • Bathrooms • Kitchens • Tenant Improvements
East Valley 480-833-7353 LIC/BONDED/INSURED • Res/Comm’l ROC#218802
aaaActionContractingInc.com
Garage/Doors
Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! Painting • Flooring • Electrical • Plumbing Drywall • Carpentry • Decks • Tile • More!
ce 1999
Affordable, Quality Work Sin 2010, 2011 2012, 2013, 2014
“No Job Too Small Man!”
Call Bruce at 602.670.7038
Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor
Flooring
You never know what you’ll find inside
480.898.6465 CLASS @TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM
Jaden Sydney Associates.com Visit our website! Landlord and Homeowner Property Services Repairs • Drywall • Painting Trash Removal • HOA Compliance
AND so much more!
Ahwatukee Resident
480.335.4180 Not a licensed contractor.
Gift Certificates Available
CLASSIFIEDS
FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
Handyman
REMODEL CONTRACTOR
2 Guys
Plumbing & Handyman Plumbing, Electrical, Remodel & Additions, Drywall, Painting, Concrete, Tile & Flooring
All Work Guaranteed! 30 Years Experience • INSURED
Call Andy
602-332-6694
Not a Licensed Contractor
Home Improvement
Plans / Additions, Patios New Doors, Windows Lowest Price in Town! R. Child Lic#216115, Class BO3 Bonded-Insured-Ref's
480-215-3373
Landscape Maintenance Foothills Touch Landscapes LLC Lawn care/Maint. Starting as Low as $25. Install/Design Not a licensed contractor
Ahw. Res. 30 yrs Exp Free Estimates. Call Pat (480) 343-0562
Home Improvement
LEE'S SPRINKLER REPAIR 30 years experience Timers - Valves Heads Leaks FREE ESTIMATES Ahwatukee Resident Call 480-282-7222 Not a licensed contractor
MISSED THE DEADLINE? Place your ad online! Call 480-898-6564
59
Landscape Maintenance Juan Hernandez
SPRINKLER
Drip/Install/Repair Not a licensed contrator
24 years exp. Call Now (480) 720-3840 Juan Hernandez
AFFORDABLE Landscape Maintenance 24 Years exp (480) 720-3840
Landscape Maintenance Home Improvement
Roof Leaking? CHAMPION BUILT CONTRACTING INC.
Call a Plumber in the Classifieds!
FREE
ESTIMATES!
25 +YEARS
IN BUSINESS
Residential/Commercial National Assoc. of the Remodeling Industry Member Lic | Bonded | Insured | References ROC# 113643, 113642
(480)497-5222
ChampionBuiltContracting.com
Lawn Mowing Starts At $20 Full Service Starts At $70 15 + Yrs Exp! All English Speaking Crew
Where Quality Comes First! Total Design/Build Kitchens | Baths Replacement Windows Additions | Patios Total Interior Remodels
Specials
SONORAN LAWN
480-745-5230 Landscape Maintenance
We Only Service Ahwatukee, So We Are Always Close By To Meet Unexpected Needs
A-Z Tauveli Prof LANDSCAPING LLC
We will give you totally new landscaping or revamp your current landscaping! Tree/Palm Tree Trimming • Sprinkler Systems Desertscape • Gardening • Concrete Work Block Wall • Real & Imitation • Flagstone
FREE ESTIMATES
602-471-3490 or 480-962-5149 ROC#276019 • LICENSED BONDED INSURED
Irrigation Repair Services Inc. Licensed • Bonded • Insured Technician
Specializing in Controllers, Valves, Sprinklers, Landscape Lighting, P.V.C. & Poly Drip Systems
Call Lance White
480.721.4146 www.irsaz.com
ROC# 256752
• Pavers and Travertine • Retaining Walls • Synthetic Turf and SOD • Plants and Trees • Ramadas and Patio Covers
• BBQs and Fire Pits • Lighting (low voltage) • Irrgation Systems and Repairs • One-Time Clean-up • Maintenance
480-539-2597 cyclandscaping.com ROC: CR21-232290
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CLASSIFIEDS
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
Landscape Maintenance
Landscape Maintenance
Landscape Maintenance
Drip Systems Installed, Valves/Timer Repairs
WINTERIZE YOUR DRIP SYSTEM! Take steps now to prevent winter damage! I ONLY use commercial parts that will last a long time. TWO year warranty (instead of normal 1 year) I will check your system, drips, valves, etc. and advise you how to keep your plants healthy and system working all winter.
Painting
Meetings/Events
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING Interior, Exterior House Painting. Stucco Patching. Gate/Front Door Refinishing. Quality work/Materials Free Estimate Ignacio 480-961-5093 602-571-9015 ROC #189850 Bond/Ins'd
GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS & GAMANON for meeting information 602-266-97846 NONDENOMINATIONAL, GREAT PRAISE AND WORSHIP, GREAT MESSAGES FOR TODAYS LIVING! OUR MISSION IS “EVANGELISM, HEALING, DISCIPLESHIP, THROUGH THE WORD OF GOD!
VISIT US AT ValorCC.com.
FREE ESTIMATES! CALL 24 HOURS 20 Yrs Exp. I Do All My Own Work! Call Mark
480.295.2279 Not a licensed contractor.
CLASSIFIEDS 480-898-6465 class@times publications.com
CLEAN-UP & TREE SERVICE
Painting Not a licensed contractor
• Tree Trimming & Removal • Gravel Spread • General Yard Work • Weed Removal • Sprinkler Drip & Timer Repair • Insured • Free Estimates • All Work Guaranteed
Painting
Proudly Serving Ahwatukee for a Decade. Family Owned & Operated
Complete Lawn Service & Weed Control
HOME IMPROVEMENT
$60/Month! ROC 304267 • Licenced & Bonded
• One Month Free Service • Licensed, Bonded Insured for your protection. • Call or Text for a Free Quote
kjelandscape.com • ROC#281191
480-586-8445
The Valley’s Premier Painters
Interior/Exterior Painting 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE
New & Re-Do Design and Installation
Affordable | Paver Specialists Drip & Sprinkler Repair BBQ’s & Outdoor Fireplaces Lighting
Free Estimates 7 Days a Week! ROC# 186443 • BONDED
480.844.9765
-4 Year Warranty!
We Are State Licensed and Reliable!
Free Estimates • Senior Discounts
480-338-4011
ROC#243600
Interior/Exterior Painting RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL
ACP is 100%Veteran Owned & Supports Our Vets with 10% off for all Military Personnel
See What We’re Up To!
Licensed - Bonded - Insured ROC 290242
• Free Estimates
FREE ESTIMATES • CALL TODAY!
(480)785-6323
• Light Repairs, Drywall • Senior discounts
Call Jason:
-Competitive Pricing
www.AcpPaintingllc.com
References Available
Your Ad can go ONLINE ANY Day! Call to place your ad online!! Classifieds 480-898-6465
-Stucco/Drywall Repairs & Texture Matching -Minor Carpentry
Dunn Edwards Quality Paint Small Stucco/Drywall Repairs
Arizona Specialty Landscape
-Interior & Exterior Painting
Not a licensed contractor
East Valley PAINTERS Voted #1 Paint Interior & Exterior • Drywall Repair Light Carpentry • Power Washing • Textures Matched Popcorn Removal • Pool Deck Coatings Garage Floor Coatings • Color Consulting
SPEND A LITTLE…
MAKE A LOT!
10% OFF
We Beat Competitors Prices & Quality Free Estimates• 3 Year Warranty
480-688-4770
www.eastvalleypainters.com Family Owned & Operated Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131
Now Accepting all majior credit cards
CLASSIFIEDS
FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
Painting
Painting
61
Pool Service / Repair
Plumbing
RPL Decorators
• Painting • Wallpapering & Removal • Color Consultations • Finish Painting • Handyman Services 4th Generation Painter 30 Years Skilled Experience Always Neat & Dependable Expert Workmanship Guaranteed References Available
$25 OFF
Filter Cleaning! Monthly Service & Repairs Available
Mobile 602-369-5017 Bob480-917-3617
602-546-POOL 7 6 6 5
ROC #115384/Bonded
www.barefootpoolman.com
Locksmith
See our Before’s and After’s on Facebook Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC# 272001
Plumbing
Meetings/Events?
Get Free notices in the Classifieds!
Submit to ecota@timespublications.com
Plumbing
Plumbing & Rooter Service
$64* Drain Cleaning *Some conditions apply. Call for details.
PLUMBING $35.00 Off Any Service Call Today!
A+ RATED
We Repair or Install ROC # 272721
AHWATUKEE’S #1 PLUMBER Licensed • Bonded • Insured
704.5422
(480)
$39 Off* Any Service *Call for Details. For a Limited Time.
100% Guarantee on Our Work
From Water Heaters to Toilets, Slab Leaks to Clogs!
24/7 Emergency Service FAST 60 Minute Service Available
Estimates Available
480.405.3020 Bonded | Insured | Lic’d ROC 257806
Ahw Resident • Owner Operated Maintenance & Repair Professional and Superior Service We maintain, repair and service all types of pools, equipment, filters, cleaning systems, fresh water and salt water systems
Call me, Howard:
480.231.9651
AZPoolExpert.com BBB Member Not a licensed contractor.
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CLASSIFIEDS
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
ROOFING CONTRACTOR with 32 years exp Specializing in all types repairs, re-roofs, coating & walking decks. Quality service & response our first priority. All work guaranteed. ROC# 100401-L42 ROC# 132572-C42 Call Carl 480-895-3425 or 602-432-9183
Roofing
Roofing
Roofing
Roofing
FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1984
Tiles, shingles, flat, repairs & new work Free Estimates • Ahwatukee Resident
ROOFING
Over 30 yrs. Experience
480-706-1453
New Construction, Complete Re-Roof, Repairs, Tile, Asphalt Shingle, Foam and more!
Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099
WWW.PAYNESONS.COM
Sun/Shade Screens
Contact us for a FREE evaluation
"Mobile Screening" Your Re-Screening Specialist.
SEE OUR REVIEWS ON:
CLASSIFIEDS 480-898-6465
480.988.9250
class@times publications.com
Bug Screens - Sun Screens
Patio Doors New Screens Available We Come To You! (480) 980-3321
Family Owned/ Operated
TRI CERTIFIED INSTALLER LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED
Window Cleaning
ROC: 194202
Quality Leak Repairs & Re-Roofs
Honest Free Estimates References
ROC: 138549B
John's Window Cleaning 1-story $125 / 2-story $145 -inside and out up to 30 panes (add'l panes $2) Screens cleaned $2.50 per pane. Power Washing and Re-Screening available Same day Service (480) 201-6471
DENNIS PORTER
480-460-7602 or 602-710-2263 RANDY HALFHILL
602-910-1485
Pool Service / Repair
Roofing
JuanPavers Hernandez • Concrete
ARE YOUR HOME AND FAMILY PROTECTED?
Water Features • Sprinkler Repair
P O O L R E PA I R
Pebble cracking, Plaster peeling, Rebar showing, Pool Light out?
I CAN HELP!
23 Years Experience • Dependable & Reliable
Tile Roof Specialist
Call Juan at
480-720-3840 Not a licensed contractor.
AE &Sons Pool Plaster Company
All Complete Pool Renovations Pebble • White Plaster Tile • Deck • Pump & Filters
FREE Estimates • BEST Prices 602-252-2125 Ofc. • 602-505-8066 Cell Se Habla Espanõl
Lic’d, Bonded • ROC #235771 • ROC #235770
Phoenix’s Premier Tile and Foam Roofer. Spencer 4 HIRE ROOFING
10% OFF Valley Wide Service
With This Ad
New Roofs | Re-Roofs | Repairs | Tile | Foam | Shingles | Patios
Free Estimates • Credit Cards OK Check out some of our jobs and reviews!
480-446-7663 (ROOF)
www.spencer4hireroofing.com ROC #244850 | INSURED | BONDED
Lic#ROC 152111 Bonded
Tree Services
U.S. ARBOR Tree Service
• Tree Trimming • Tree Removal • Stump Grind • Queen Palm & Citrus Treatment • Deep Root Fertilization
www.usarbor.com FREE ESTIMATES
480.812.0731 Lic #990148 • Insured
FEBRUARY 8, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS
63
64
SALE
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | FEBRUARY 8, 2017
CLEARANCE
12 MONTHS SA ME AS CASH**
Spencers Warehouse is bursting at the seams!! We need to make room for Merchandise. Trucks are arriving daily and we need existing inventory GONE. You owe it to yourself to get here today ... because when it’s gone ... it’s gone.
55"
4K ULTRA HD TV • Built-in Wi-Fi • TruMotion 120Hz • 3 HDMI Inputs
55UH6030
The Spencers TV & Appliance credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Financial National Bank. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases of $499.00 or more charged with approved credit. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. This information is accurate as of 01/06/2016 and is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921. Offer expires 2/14/2017.