SanTan Sun News April 10, 2022 by Times Media Group

April 10, 2022 | www.santansun.com

Relentlessly local coverage of Southern Chandler

An edition of the East Valley Tribune

Freeway bottlenecks top MAG transit priorities BY KEN SAIN Staff Writer

City staff provided Chandler City Council with this update on where it and its neighbors stand with paying down billions in unfunded public safety pension liability. (City of Chandler)

Chandler sees light at end of police-ﬁre pension tunnel BY KEN SAIN Staff Writer

Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke was keeping count of every time Councilman Matt Orlando shouted, ‘Hip, hip, hooray,’ during the city’s second budget workshop last month.

The final tally was six after more than two hours of staff giving the members of the council mostly good news. Revenues are up and Council members have a lot of extra money they can use to address priorities. See

BUDGET on page 6

Addressing bottlenecks on the Santan and Loop 101 freeways and adding two rapid bus routes are among the transportation priorities in Chandler for county officials. Audra Koester Thomas, the transportation planning program manager for the Maricopa Association of Governments, said every project on its list is important, but that expanding the number of lanes on the Santan Loop 202 Freeway between the Loop 101 and I-10 as the most important. Two rapid-bus routes are planned. One would go up Arizona Avenue through the heart of downtown Chandler to Mesa and a light rail transit center and the other between Scottsdale Fashion Square and Chandler Fashion Center. She and other officials briefed business leaders on the region’s transportation plan at a Chandler Chamber of Commerce event. “The purpose of the route is more about connecting Chandler, Scottsdale

and Tempe residents with downtown Tempe/ASU and downtown Scottsdale, along with a connection to either mall at the north/south end and the Chandler Fashion Center,” said Jason Crampton. “Additionally, the route will provide a faster connection to light rail and other regional bus lines in the area.” That route would travel mostly on Rural and Scottsdale roads. Another high priority is addressing the rush-hour bottleneck on the Loop 101 between U.S. 60 and the Red Mountain Freeway. A key to addressing all those priorities is voters passing an extension to Prop. 400, a half-cent sales tax dedicated to addressing the region’s transportation needs. It will likely be included on this year’s ballot in November, although at this newspaper’s deadline, both chambers in the Legislature were considering a bill to put the tax on renewal on this year’s ballot. The current tax expires in 2025. See

TRANSIT on page 3

Election 2022 begins for Chandler teen inventor Chandler mayor, council earns big national nod BY KEN SAIN Staff Writer

The campaign season for the 2022 city election is officially underway in Chandler. The deadline for submitting signatures to qualify for the Aug. 2 primary election was April 4 and two candidates for mayor and five for three Council seats appeared to have qualified, though the deadline for challenging petitions is April 18. Unlike his inaugural run four years ago, Mayor Kevin Hartke appears headed for a contest as he faces Ruth Jones. Jones, who said she submitted more than 1,500 signatures – 500 over the number needed. In the Council race, only incumbent Matt Orlando is seeking reelection as council members Rene Lopez and Terry Roe are termed out. Roe, a Republican, is running for the state House in Legislative District 12, which covers northern Chandler, while Lopez is one of six GOP hopefuls running for a chance to challenge incumbent Congressman Greg Stanton in the fall. Here’s a look at the candidates in the city election:

Mayor

Kevin Hartke: The current mayor is pastor at Trinity Christian Fellowship in

Chandler, where he started working in 1985. He has served on council for nine years and before that worked on the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission and the Human Relations Commission. He said he thinks the biggest issue the city faces in the coming years is adjusting to build-out. Hartke started this year with about $206,483 for the election, according to his campaign finance reports, raising more than $78,500 in the final quarter of 2021.

Ruth Jones: Jones said she got inspired to get involved in local government after the death of her 17-year-old son, Joshua, from cancer. It was while he was getting treatment in Utah that she first joined some city commissions. She started her career as a network analyst for the National Security Administration, has done marketing and business and for the past 20 years has focused on finance. Jones said her top campaign issue will be public safety and beefing up the police department. Council Angel Encinas: Raised in down-

town Chandler, where he still lives, he is a Chandler High and Arizona State University grad who manages an immigration consulting firm and a real estate See

ELECTION on page 14

BY KEN SAIN Staff Writer

Prisha Shroff may need to brush up on patent law if she keeps on inventing at the pace she’s currently on. The Hamilton High School freshman can already claim four inventions, including one that won a national award. Not bad for a 15-year-old. All of her inventions to date are to solve problems that she witnessed or heard about. NASA is having a problem with its rovers running out of power on Mars; Prisha has a solution for that. The family comes home from a trip to find its backyard flooded by the swimming pool; there’s a fix for that. Drones are running out of power after only about 10 minutes of flight; she’s got a plan for that. But the one she won the $10,000 national Broadcom Foundation Lemel-

Prisha Shroff son Award for Invention came after seeing a wildfire shut down a highway in Los Angeles. Her invention is an artifi-

F E AT U R E D STO R I E S Chandler part of arts impact study . . . . . . . . . . . . . .NEWS . . . . . . . . . Page 10 The Alexander has been sold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Business ...............Page 21 Assistance League's big hopes for casino night . . .NEIGHBORS . . . . . Page 26 Electric season at arts center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .GETOUT . . . . . . . Page 28

See

PRISHNA on page 10

More News . . . . . . . . 1-20 Health . . . . . . .21-22 Business . . . . 23-24 Opinion . . . . . . . 25 Neighbors . . 26-27 GetOut. . . . . 28-32 Faith . . . . . . . . . . 33 Directory . . . 34-38

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

NEWS

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

TRANSIT

from page 1

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This chart illustrates a tentative plan for how the Maricopa Association of Governments, working with state and municipal agencies, could divvy up projects for funding if the ½-cent transportation tax renewal passes with voters. (MAG)

Ellsworth Road in Mesa and Ironwood Drive in Pinal County. The entire fivemile-long project is scheduled for completion later this year. Thomas said there’s not a lot more that can be done for U.S. 60 because the freeway’s footprint is maxed out. However, she said they will look at it to see if there are things that can be done to improve the flow of traffic. MAG officials asked community leaders for their transit wish list for the coming decades. The estimated cost for all of those more than 1,400 projects is

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• Nearly 7 miles of new streetcar tracks; Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke said there have been more than 400 completed transportation projects done in Chandler because of the half-cent sales tax. “All corners of our city have benefited from Prop. 400 funding,” Hartke said. “With the north and west Chandler getting the majority of Chandler’s bus services, while arterial funding in the Southeast Chandler, allowing the city to bring all of the streets up to modern standards, and accommodate the traffic demands in the growing parts of our city.”

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$90 billion. They have worked up a plan that will be able to meet the region’s transportation needs through 2050 if voters approve the half-cent sales tax for another 25 years. That $36 billion plan includes: • 367 new freeway/highway miles; • 186 new HOV lane miles; • 1,300 new or improved arterial lane miles; • 45 new or improved traffic interchanges; • 12 new dedicated HOV lanes or system interchange DHOV ramps; • Nearly 12 miles of new light rail; • Nearly 37 miles of bus rapid transit;

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Thomas said a lot of infrastructure has been built in East Valley since the 1980s and it has helped fuel the growth of Chandler to being Arizona’s fourth largest city. “That half-cent sales tax is what delivered this network that you see here,” Thomas said, saying there are other projects in the works that will impact Chandler commuters. “Finishing up the HOV lane, here out east of Chandler, around the Santan, so completing that freeway network,” she said. “Build out of the SR 24 (Gateway Freeway) and the southeast network.” The Arizona Department of Transportation two weeks ago opened another four-lane stretch of SR 24 to help access Bell Bank Park in Mesa as well as some residential areas. The mile-long section is an interim four-lane roadway between Ellsworth and Williams Field roads and was completed several months ahead of schedule as part of a partnership between ADOT, Mesa and Legacy Sports USA, which operates Bell Bank Park. The new sports and entertainment complex is southeast of the new intersection connecting SR 24 and Williams Field Road. Drivers are now able to access the eastbound side of the new SR 24 section via ramps from the Santan Freeway. Access from Ellsworth Road will be available by next week when crews open new on- and off-ramps on the east side of the SR 24/Ellsworth interchange. The new section is part of ADOT’s $77 million project to build SR 24 as a divided four-lane roadway between

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

Local family’s plight fails to bridge partisan divide BY PAUL MARYNIAK Executive Editor

Twice in the last two months, Kendra Riley appeared before legislative committees to implore for the passage of a bill that she feels could ease the burden for parents who endure the heartbreaking ordeal that befell her family in March 2020. The Ahwatukee mom had appeared on behalf of SB1163, – promoted by the Goldwater Institute as the “Right to Try 2.0." It would give parents the right to obtain individualized experimental treatments in this country instead of forcing them to do what Kendra and her husband David had to do two years ago: Spend more than $500,000 to go to Italy to try to save two daughters’ lives. But her plea fell on Senate Democrats' deaf ears. But her plea fell on deaf ears where Senate Democrats were concerned, except for Awatukee Sen. Sean Bowie and Yuma Sen. Lisa Otondo – who broke ranks with their caucus and was the only two members of their to vote in favor of the bill. One other Democrat, Tempe Sen. Juan Mendez didn’t vote – nor did Republican Sens. Kelly Townsend of Mesa and Michelle Rita-Ugenti of Scottsdale. While SB1163 passed 16-11-3 on Valentines Day and two weeks later was recommended for approval by two House committes – where only Republicans again voted for it – it has yet to come up for a final floor vote. The Rileys’ plight is the genesis for Right to Try 2 – which, if passed, would make Arizona the first state to go beyond the similar but more limited Right To Try law that Congress passed and President Trump signed in 2018. Arizona and 40 other states have adopted similar laws. The Rileys' ordeal began in March 2020 – just as the pandemic was starting to grip Arizona and the rest of the world. The couple had far bigger worries than COVID-19: Their 2-year-old daughter Olivia had difficulty walking. An odd vibration developed in the iris of one eye. Tests subsequently confirmed Olivia had metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD), a rare genetic brain disease that has no cure as it destroys the protective fatty layer surrounding the nerves in the central nervous system, aggressively taking away motor function and other abilities. Within 90 days of her first symptoms, Olivia could no longer walk or talk. Subjected to moderate to severe pain on a daily basis, she is now in hospice care. Children with MLD typically aren’t expected to live past 6.

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The Rileys’ heartbreak only worsened after that. Neither devastated parent knew they were carriers and so they had their two other daughters tested. And while their eldest daughter Eva is a carrier and

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www.santansun.com At 3 years of age, Olivia Riley of Ahwatukee is in hospice care as the result of a very rare terminal brain disease. Her mother, Kendra Riley, appeared before state Senate and House panels in February and March to press for the Legislature’s passage a bill making it easier to seek experimental treatments for diseases like Olivia’s. But aside from Ahwatukee Sen. Sean Bowie, Senate and House Dems ignored her pleas. (Courtesy of the Goldwater Institute)

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not affected by the disease, the tests showed their 6-month old daughter Keira also had MLD. The Rileys found that only one medical facility in the country, located in Iowa, offered a treatment program for Olivia. “It wouldn’t cure the disease” Kendra told the Senate Health and Human Services Committee Jan. 13 on behalf of a bill introduced by West Valley Sen. Nancy Barto. “It would require weekly trips for us from Phoenix to Iowa,” Kendra continued. “So we were doing that every single week during the pandemic with her just to try and get as much time with her as we could with her.” Meanwhile, an advocacy group offered the Rileys some hope for their baby: A medical facility in Milan, Italy, had developed a gene treatment that showed great success with children who had MLD but had not yet developed symptoms. A team of doctors in Milan told Kendra that Keira could be the 31st kid in the world to have this treatment. “Kids that have had this treatment in the past – they’ve only been doing this for a decade – are now 11 and 12 and living completely normal lives. So they’re walking, they’re talking, they’re good playing soccer and going to school and you'd never know they have MLD.” “We could have had everything done here, but it wasn’t in place, ” Kendra continued. And so, she said, “We had to raise a half a million dollars. We had a month to do so. We had to get passports for the girls, visas for the girls. We had to move Olivia’s clinical trial to a site in Amsterdam. And we needed my parents to come with us.” Thanks to the generosity of family, friends and especially the Ahwatukee-based Armer Foundation for Kids and the Desert Foothills Credit Union Foundation, the Rileys raised the money and stayed in Milan for six months as their infant received treatment at the San Raffaele-Telethon Institute for Gene

Therapy. “I’m very happy to say she’s advanced for her age. She’s walking, she’s talking, she’s running, she’s climbing,” Kendra said, her voice cracking with emotion. “It’s amazing. It’s things Olivia could never have the chance to do.” “So I’m here today in support of this bill because if it were in place, and we were going through this right now, we would get this treatment for cure and we’d be here. We wouldn’t have to raise hundreds of 1000s of dollars, leave our jobs and our family and our friends and go halfway around the world during a global pandemic to save our daughter’s life.” Now, a Minnesota clinic is providing the same kind of individualized treatment that has made Keira, now 2, able to do “all these things that we never got to see Livvy do. "And Livvy is now enrolled in hospice and we just have to keep her as happy and comfortable as possible.”

About Right to Try 2

The 2018 federal Right to Try law gives families access to potentially lifesaving treatments for their children in the United States but under various conditions. The biggest condition is that the treatments must have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for large groups of patients. Even a Minnesota clinic providing the same kind of treatment that Keira found in Milan must get special permission from the FDA on a case-by-case basis. “Patients now have the right to seek treatments that are safe enough to be used in clinical trials but remain under clinical evaluation for final FDA approval,” Naomi Lopez, Goldwater Institute director of healthcare policy, told the House Health and Human Services Committee March 14. She explained that even though such treatments might be considered “individSee

KENDRA on page 12

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

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BUDGET

from page 1

One of those ‘hip, hip, hoorays’ was for Chandler’s obligation for police and pension funds to the Arizona Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS). The city has been making huge payments to the fund for years. “As long as investment earnings come in as they should, and everything happens the way the plan is, we would be completely 100% funded by 2027,” said Dawn Lang, the city’s deputy city manager and chief financial officer. She said if they do that – and there are some ifs involved – the city would see an increase in available funds of about $9.2 million a year. That would be the extra money the city has been paying to eliminate its unfunded liability in PSPRS. “Hip, hip, hooray,” Orlando said. “Council, I’m always in favor of turning one-time dollars into ongoing dollars,” Hartke said. Paying down the pension debt is a significant cost item on the proposed budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1 – but some unexpected revenue increases are making that and other expenditures possible. The city has the extra cash for a couple of reasons. First, staff anticipated much lower revenues coming in the past two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic. So, they set their budget accordingly. They were surprised when revenues came in at a much higher rate and that the pandemic did little damage to the local economy. The other reason is the city always

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

This chart shows some of the projects city officials are targeting in the budget for the ﬁscal year beginning July 1. (City of Chandler)

sees an increase in revenues when Intel expands. That company began a $20 billion expansion of its manufacturing buildings at its Ocotillo campus in the fall. The city had not planned on Intel expanding this quickly, so that also was not planned for in the budget. Last time Intel expanded, it took them years to actually start work. Not so this year. The city also received $34.6 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds. All of that money is considered one-time funds. Council did decide to give some of that extra money back to property owners, by deciding to cut its tax rate by a penny. Most of the property tax goes to public schools and community college districts (71.3 cents of every dol-

lar). Another 18.6 cents of every dollar goes to Maricopa County and special districts. Only 10.1 cents of every dollar goes to the city. Council had to cut the property tax by at least a quarter of a cent or notify residents of a tax hike because of the rising valuation on property. The median valuation for a Chandler home is $386,300. Because of state law, the property tax valuation can only be raised 5% per year. That means the median valuation for tax rate will be $224,742. So the city is anticipating a beginning general fund balance of $241.3 million for fiscal 2022-23. For context, it is expecting that balance to be under $114 million in fiscal year 2026-27. The city set a goal of being fully fundAllow us to introduce the newest addition to our team:

ed with PSPRS before June 30, 2036. On June 30 last year, the city’s unfunded liability totaled $153.9 million. That amount did not include the $22 million the city paid later in the summer. To get it fully funded by 2027, it will take a $50 million payment this year and a $20 million payment the following years. There are variables that would have to hold up, including investments returning at the rate they are expected. “So, I didn’t give you the really good news, though,” Lang said. By getting fully funded, the city’s rate of contributions will eventually come down. Right now, the city pays 49.12% for police and 41.67% for fire. She said the See

BUDGET on page 7

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

BUDGET

from page 6

future rates would continue to fall. Many Valley cities have unfunded liabilities with PSPRS – an obligation that they are legally required to meet. Many also have accelerated their payments in an effort to catch up and erase what has been a staggering debt in many cases. The largest debt in Arizona has been racked up by Phoenix, which has an unfunded pension liability of $3.5 billion. In its preliminary “trial budget” for the fiscal year beginning July 1, the city manager’s office gave only a one-sentence mention of that debt, stating the bill “will require continued diligence and further resource strategies in the coming years.” Councilman Rene Lopez said Chandler’s potential success in erasing its pension debt more quickly than anticipated is Council’s reward for being frugal with taxpayer dollars and making the commitment to pay off this debt calls for more spending on other issues, including police and parks. Indeed, previous Phoenix budget planners have warned City Council that its failure to pay down the debt may eventually force cuts in basic services. “This is the hard decision that I think councils before have had and that we have had eight years ago,” Lopez said. “We knew this was going to be a struggle, and we had to bide our time, and we had to wait for a lot of this to clear, for us to be able to do more quality of life for our citizens. We had to pay this

tap into that,” Mark Stewart said. Council also discussed the need for more sports fields because they keep hearing there are not enough. Council members were told there are two projects in the works, but that the city is running out of open spaces and would probably not be able to build any after those two. Orlando also questioned why the city is waiting up to five years to refurbish Folley Pool and Park. It’s planned to be improved as part of the parks bond that votThis chart shows the key projects for capital spending that have been proposed for 2022-23 through 2027- ers approved last year, 28. (City of Chandler) but not for five years. He was told the other $325,000 is used for one-time off, through no fault of our own, we citizen’s committee the projects. inherited this.” Council appointed to look at bond At a budget workshop last month, Council also is considering adding projects decided that other improveCouncil considered increasing that acmore local projects. ments were a higher priority. However, count by 5-to-10% because of inflation. Council has a $400,000 fund for if Council wants to move Folley up the “Should we look at raising this a little projects that have fallen through the list, it could, but they’d have to identify cracks that it wants to undertake quick- bit, maybe for inflationary rate, because which other project would move down of projects that are coming in?” Council- the list. ly. It has been used recently to pay for man Matt Orlando asked his colleagues. a pickleball court at Desert Vista Park Orlando said he’d at least like to Hartke said Council uses this money ($80,000); playground and park shade start discussing what they want to do when projects come up during the year there, mentioning resident requests for structures ($55,000); planting trees that were not in the budget. ($30,000) and a new studio camera for a cricket field. There was no decision “I like what you’re thinking about the Communications and Public Affairs reached on that issue. as it relates to when we have these Department ($30,000). Council next plans to address the emerging that we want to do for the Only $75,000 of that fund can be budget at an all-day workshop schedcommunity, it’s important that we can spent for ongoing projects while the uled for April 29.

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

CUSD changes graduation venues to outdoors BY KEN SAIN Staff Writer

High temperatures in Chandler on May 25 the past five years have hovered around 96 degrees – not exactly the weather you want to don a cap and gown in. But that’s what seniors in Chandler Unified high schools will be doing next month after Arizona State University hiked the rent for staging the ceremonies at Desert Financial Arena on its Tempe campus and the ceremonies were moved to seniors’ school campuses. Parents and others are fuming. “When I first got the email about how graduations were being changed from the nice, comfortable, air-conditioned ASU basketball court to being on the field, I was like every other parent, I was upset,” said Jason Olive, a member of the Chandler Unified School District Governing Board. “My mother and mother-in-law are going to have to sit out in the heat. “Unlike most other parents, I was able to pick up a phone and call somebody and ask about it. The reasons the change was made actually make sense.” Dr. Craig Gilbert, the district’s assistant superintendent of secondary education, said ASU wanted an additional $44,000 to host the ceremonies this year. “We met with the principals before break, we sat down with all of them,”

said Frank Narducci, the district’s superintendent. “We felt the best thing was to bring them back to campuses, that we could control the outcomes of how we run them and how they were able to be organized.” Gilbert said one factor in moving graduations to high school campuses was ASU’s limit of a total of 10,000

parents were required and any changes may not occur until May. This mitigation is not currently required in CUSD and we did not feel it would be appropriate for our graduations.” Narducci said they faced restrictions because of litigation, and a limit on the number of tickets they could distribute, in addition to the added costs. He said

I first got the email about how graduations “wereWhen being changed from the nice, comfortable, airconditioned ASU basketball court to being on the field, I was like every other parent, I was upset. ”

– Jason Olive

tickets for the district that would have been managed by each school. The district could exceed that limit, but doing so would cost an additional $1,300. Those weren’t the only factors. Masks also loomed. “Mitigation requirements also weighed heavy on the decision,” Gilbert said. “This process starts the prior year regarding scheduling dates, but the contract does not come out until the spring. “Through all of the conversations with ASU, masks for students and

they found out about these changes from ASU later than they anticipated. “We do apologize to families that feel they received information late,” Narducci said. Meanwhile, the Governing Board on March 30 approved funds for work across the district. First, it plans to upgrade the public address capabilities in all district buildings for a little more than $500,000. Officials want to make the entire system compatible by using the same brand in all buildings. The board also agreed to spend a

little more than $350,000 to remove and replace the asphalt at Chandler Traditional Academy Independence. Frank Fletcher, the associate superintendent for facilities, said it is long overdue. “This one definitely needs replacement,” Fletcher said. “There is no asphalt. A lot of rock, there’s a lot of fine particles, you really don’t see any sealer, you see the rock and the asphalt. This one is definitely beyond repair.” The board also okayed $237,000 to paint the metal canopies at Perry High School. Fletcher said all the metal doors at the school that opened in 2007 are currently peeling. He said they all need to be sandblasted and painted. In addition, all the door frames and windows need to be done. He said it is too big a project to do internally, so they are recommending hiring an outside company to do it.

Graduations

Here’s the schedule for Chandler Unified School District high school graduations: May 25 Perry High School, 7:30 p.m. May 26 Arizona College Prep High School, 7:30 p.m. Basha High School, 7:30 p.m. Hamilton High School, 7:30 p.m. Casteel High School, 8 p.m. Chandler High School, 8 p.m.

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

from page 1

cial intelligence program that predicts hotspots and then deploys a drone to spray fire retardant in an effort to stop wildfires before they start. “Some of my friends had to evacuate their homes,” Prisha said. “Houses were destroyed, and the air pollution

at that time was so bad that we weren’t suppose to step outside. That really inspired me, we needed to make a change and prevent these wildfires.” Prisha’s father, Romish Shroff, said that attitude is not surprising, given her role models. “Her role models are Elon Musk and Gandhi,” he said. “Elon Musk because he wants to change the world solving

real-life problems. And Gandhi said, ‘Be the change you want to see in the world first.’ I think she’s getting those values from both of them.” Romish said the plan now is for Prisha to turn her idea into a real-world product. That led to another invention. Her idea to use drones to spray fire retardant on hotspots ran into a problem because of their limited flying time

before they need to recharge. So, she came up with an idea for solar-powered drones. Her first invention came while she was a student at Knox Gifted Academy. She heard about the rovers on Mars running out of power because of dust on the solar arrays. She thought See

PRISHNA on page 12

Chandler to be part of major arts impact study Cohen said the arts also are a civil was done in 2017 before the pandemic rights issue. He pointed to a UCLA study disrupted the arts. It found, for examthat looked at the impact of arts educaple, that the arts generated more than tion in schools. 750 jobs and $2.6 million in government Chandler plans on finding out just “The arts-involved students, better revenue in the West Valley alone. how important arts and culture are to grades, better standardized test scores, “People love the arts because they driving economic activity in the city. inspire us,” Cohen said. “They engage us. lower dropout rates, better attitudes The city will be part of an Americans And they create these communities that about community service,” Cohen said. for the Arts project that does a deep He added they were not all students we want to live in, and work in. But the dive into how much the arts contribute from richer districts. So the author of the fact is, they are also an industry.” to a region’s economic growth. The Cohen said the fifth AEP survey found study went back and ran the numbers for nationwide survey will begin in May and the students from the poorest districts. 90 percent of Americans say arts instituresults are expected in the fall 2023. “Not only did the numbers hold, tions are important to the quality of life, Michelle Mac Lennan, general managbut there was even a greater disparity and 86 percent agree they are important er of the Chandler Center for the Arts, between the arts involved, and the nonto local businesses and the economy. said the Chandler Cultural Foundation is arts involved kids,” Cohen said. AEP5 also found the nonprofit arts inpaying about $4,350 to make sure the city He added that the Department of dustry generated $166.3 billion in economis part of Arts & Economic Prosperity 6. Education does a survey of arts educaic activity and supported 4.6 million jobs. It is the sixth national survey and will tion every decade, and they found there That survey concluded that $5 billion break down results by county, though has been a huge decline in the number Richard Cohen, the president of research in direct arts funding by local, state and of arts programs at districts with high federal governments returned $27.5 and policy for Americans for the Arts, billion in government revenue in the par- minority populations. said cities will be able to look at their “By keeping these young students ticipating communities they examined. data separately. COLOR: Right click big swatch, replace with correct from and arts education, you’re limiting their “Small investments, returns –and find Both Phoenix and the West Valley ability and their opportunity to benefi t that’s the arts,” Cohen said. were part of the fifth survey, which

BY KEN SAIN Staff Writer

from school.” Cohen said the UCLA study followed 25,000 students into their 20s and found those who were most involved in the arts all did better than those who were not as involved. Starting in May, local arts organizations will begin asking people who attend their events to fill out the survey. That will go on for about a year. Starting in January, Americans for the Arts will begin surveying the nation’s nonprofit organizations on their spending. Mitch Menchaca, the executive director of the Office of Arts + Culture for Phoenix, said the survey will give everyone ammunition when someone suggests cutting the arts budget. “Because I had this data, I could say, ‘whoa, whoa, whoa, we are needed in this community. … Look at where we were before the pandemic.’ And because of that, I was able to make the case for color [federal stimulus funds to keep the arts going through the pandemic].”

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ualized,” the FDA requires they apply to large groups of people. “Today this law needs to be modernized to account for the rapid advancements in medicine, such as gene therapy, which aren’t covered under the original Right to Try law,” Lopez said. “That’s where Right to Try 2 comes in: Many of the medical innovations being pioneered today have made it impossible to take an individual’s genetic information and create a treatment for that individual person” she continued, explaining: “The current clinical trial evaluation system – which was created more than half a century ago – isn’t keeping pace with these modern medical advances. And the end result is that individualized treatment is still subject to the same clinical trial process as single treatments that are intended for hundreds or even thousands of patients. “And that doesn’t recognize how these new individualized treatments work. It’s a mismatch… Right to try for individualized treatments counts for new innovations and it helps get those innovations to the patients that need the most.” SB1163 has a number of safeguards and limits. It does not require a clinic to provide individualize treatment, nor require insurers to pay for it. It prevents the state from blocking patients from receiving it. For the most part, it exempts a provider of those treatments from lawsuits as long as “it complies with the law and has exercised reasonable care.” And it requires a very detailed explanation for the patient and their loved ones on the potential risks of the treatment. “SB1163 is a game changer for families like mine and Kendra’s," said Christine Hoffman, of the MLD Foundation who lost her daughter to the disease at age 8. Testifying before the House committee, Hoffman said, “We have come so far in the last few years with gene therapy… The costs to take part in the treatment overseas are exorbitant and the logistics nearly impossible, especially if the family has other affected siblings that need to be taken care of at home. “Expanding the bill to cover individuals that need life-saving treatment like our

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

Left: Dave and Kendra Riley of Ahwatukee face a parent’s worst nightmare. Daughters Olivia, 3, left, and Kiera, 6 months, suffer from a very rare and fatal brain disease. Their eldest daughter Eva, center, carries the genetic disease but, like her parents, will not be affected by it. (Santan Sun News file photo) Right: Kendra Riley appeared on Feb. 2 before the Senate Health and Human Services Committee to tell her heartbreaking story as the mother of two daughters with a terminal brain disease. (Arizona Legislature video)

daughters means that the treatments can be done in the States. We can remain surrounded by our support systems, including medical and therapy providers, family and friends. “Imagine being able to receive these potentially life changing treatments without having to leave our state, our kiddos and everyone with a rare disease deserve a fighting chance here at home. And this bill gives us that opportunity.” There was no debate when the measure came to the Senate floor, but Demcoratic members of both the Senate and House Health and Human Services Committees gave different reasons why Kendra’s testimony failed to persuade them. Sahuarita Sen. Rosanna Gabaldon said Kendra’s “very compelling testimony” resonated with her because she has a child with an autoimmune disorder, “However, I still have questions. And I’m very torn with this bill because it’s something that could be really good, but there’s just not enough information," Gabaldon said. "I’m gonna vote no today, but I’m gonna do my homework, I promise. And when it comes to the floor, my vote may change.” Her vote didn’t change on Feb. 14. Tucson Sen. Sally Ann Gonzales also

thought Kendra and Hoffman gave “very compelling testimony,” but said, “We have had a lot of advances in the medical field. But sitting up here, we have to – we’re not doctors. And so it’s very hard to make these decisions up here.“ During the House Health and Human Services Committee hearing, Tucson Rep. Pam Powers Hannley asked Lopez how many patients have survived with experimental treatments under the 2018 Right to Try law. Lopez said she had no idea because the Biden administration has not finalized rules for a law passed four years ago. Lopez stressed both Right to Try measures “work in tandem with a clinical evaluation system. There is nothing being done that is random or that medical professionals would deem as unsafe." A few minutes later, Powers Hannely said, “A phase one trial determines whether or not the drug is going to kill you. It doesn’t determine whether it’s going to work or not in any case. So this bill is a Right to Try bill but it’s also a ‘buyer beware bill’ in my opinion. “It will expand the types of experimental treatments that patients can try but it will also most likely increase the patient’s out-of-pocket medical costs because these treatments will not be

covered by insurance for the most part. This is a consumer protection issue in my opinion. And with that, I vote no.” Scottsdale Rep. Kelli Butler noted that her mother has a brain cancer “and it’s awful and I’m sure you feel desperate and would like to have anything that you think might help. "I’m worried that this bill that we’re the first in the nation to contemplate an expansion like this. I’m worried that this is going to open a door to people who may not have the best intentions potentially, and that they will have the potential to really prey on people who are desperate." “We have a clinical trial process for a reason because it’s a careful process," Butler continued. "It is not fast enough. It should be faster, but this bill worries me. Also worrying is that I’m looking at who’s signed in in support of this bill, the Goldwater Institute, the Republican Liberty Caucus, a bunch of individuals. “But I don’t really see anybody associated or at least identified as being a medical person who is signed in in support of this. And I think it could open a troubling door to potentially take advantage of people and so I vote no.” Bowie said he said no reason to vote against the bill.

Arizona unemployment hits 15-year low BY REAGAN PRIEST Cronkite News

The Arizona unemployment rate dropped to 3.6% in February, well below pre-pandemic levels and the lowest it has been since 2007, according to the most recent numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The latest numbers are part of a

PRISHNA

from page 10

a self-cleaning solar panel would take care of that. “The reason that they stopped was because there was so much dust on the solar panel that it couldn’t convert that solar energy to continue on moving,”

steady decline in unemployment since the start of the pandemic, when joblessness in the state spiked to 13.9% in April 2020. February’s rate for Arizona was down from 6% a year earlier, and a slight decline from January’s 3.7%. The state was also below the national average of 3.8% for February, although new BLS numbers out Friday showed the national unemployment

rate slipped to 3.6% in March. State unemployment numbers for March are not expected until at least next week. Andrew Sugrue, the assistant director of policy and advocacy at the Arizona Center for Economic Progress, attributed the steadily improving employment picture to aggressive COVID-19 economic relief from the federal government during the pandemic.

“Much of this is really attributable to the extraordinary measures that the federal government took in response to the pandemic … most specifically the CARES Act and the American Rescue Plan Act,” Sugrue said. “Those pieces of legislation really gave the economy the boost that it

she said. The fourth invention is AquaSaver, which she came up with after her family returned from a trip to find their backyard flooded by the pool. Her device is a leak detector that will send you a text message when there is a flooding event. She actually worked on the AI program for wildfires while attending

Accelerated Middle School at Basha. Last month, Prisha was one of 100 students selected from around the country to attend the Disney Dreamers Academy at DisneyWorld in Florida. The 15-year-old program mentors students from under-represented communities. “It was a fun experience and it inspired me to (realize) that what you

can do with technology has no limits,” Prisha said. Prisha’s personal motto might explain where all this ambition is coming from: “To be curious, to dream big, and to never give up,” she said. “Don’t just hope it happens, you should strive to make it happen.”

See

JOBS on page 17

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

from page 1

company. “My career helping people through the legal immigration process led me to decide to run for City Council,” he wrote. “Assisting people to achieve the American dream has been rewarding and I want to make that difference here for everyone in my hometown.”

Darla Gonzalez: She is the owner and founder of Gonzalez Professional Services, which provides genealogy, accounting and human resources services, as well as grassroots strategic consulting and database management. She moved to Chandler in 2004 while she was pregnant and recalls on her website how friendly and supportive neighbors were. She lists her priorities as maintaining fiscal policies that are conservative and supporting public safety.

Ruth Jones

Angel Encinas

Darla Gonzalez

Jane Poston

Matt Orlando

Kevin Hartke

Matt Orlando: He is an Air Force veteran currently serving his fifth term on Council. He has been termed out twice after serving on council from 1990-1998 and 2004 to 2013. He worked as the director of technical sales at Honeywell before recently retiring. He said public safety remains his top priority, stating, “Last year, I led the effort to hire an additional 29 police officers and fire fighters and will continue pressing the Council to hire additional first responders to meet our growing demand for services.” See

ELECTION on page 15

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

have the leadership experience and a perspective that will contribute to Chandler’s continued success.”

Farhana Shifa

ELECTION

from page 14

Orlando had more than $23,000 in his campaign war chest to start this year, all of it raised in the final quarter of last year.

Jane Poston: She and her husband own J2 Media and she recently served as chair of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. She has volunteered and served on the boards of a number of nonprofits, including the Chandler Education Foundation and Women in Leadership. “[Chandler has] been a wonderful place to raise my kids, own a business, engage in the community and enjoy the superb quality of life,” Poston wrote. “But good can always be better and I

Farhana Shifa: She owns and operates the Joy of Fine Arts academy and has been serving on the city’s arts commission for the past six years. She says her background as a small business owner helped prepare her to take this step. She said build out will be the toughest challenge facing the city in the coming years. “We must properly manage infrastructure during the continued city growth as we approach build-out while maintaining our strong financial standing,” she wrote. In addition to the races for mayor and three Council seats, voters will also decide the home rule question. The city must ask voters every four years to allow it to override spending limits imposed in a constitutional amendment. If they do not, then the Council would have to make severe cuts to its budget. The city is collecting arguments in favor and against home rule to be presented in its voter guide. The deadline to submit arguments to the City Clerk’s office is 5 p.m., May 4.

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

Tight job market could worsen fire danger here is that the state is training low-risk inmates to do some of this thinning. Wet weather last year and predicted On March 30, the state hot, dry spring and summer are going Department of Correcto result in a “very extreme" potential tions, Rehabilitation and for wildfires this year according to the Reentry graduated its state’s fire management officer. latest crew of more than And the situation is only complicat100 to help with that job. ed by the fact that the state is having Gov. Doug Ducey said trouble hiring people to fight those he is proposing an addifires once they break out. tional $36 million for the “With the above-normal rainfall we Healthy Forest Initiative had through the monsoon season and his budget for the coming the above-normal rainfall we had in fiscal year for continued December, have put a lot more vegeexpansion of inmate crews tation and a lot more growth onto our and other programs to vegetation," John Truett said last week. help clear hazardous vege“Then we had the drier-than-normal tation, bringing the total conditions the last three months which allocated to more than now has dried out all those fuels to be $42 million. available for wildland fires." State corrections In fact, Truett said, even the areas officials said the program, that were burned in the last two years which involves inmates -- 900,000 acres in 2020 and 500,000 in operating equipment and 2021 -- are not immune from being at machinery used in the risk again. timber industry, can get “All those have gotten a lot of grass them skills that will help growing in them,’’ he said. “So they them find employment could actually re-burn now." after they complete their But as Truett noted, the extreme sentence. Arizona Fire Management Officer John Truett told reporters last week that the tight job market could drought throughout the West has left The governor said he add to the state’s fire woes because they can’t find enough firefighters. (Capitol Media Services) Arizona in “heavy competition’’ with also is putting another $17 other federal, state and local agencies to million into a revolving fund “We go out and recruit," Truett said. He said the state currently has more find qualified people to fight those fires. “We just don’t have enough folks that that would be used to reimburse local than 80 firefighters, declining to say “We’re having a hard time filling our fire departments that help respond to are willing to come out and do the job how many vacancies remain in the vacancies," he said. wildfires. that we do." agency. But it’s not just the permanent Ducey sidestepped a question of jobs, Truett said, with efforts now to fill what role he believes that climate seasonal positions. change has in the extreme danger of fire. What that leaves, he said, is trying “I’ll leave it to others to talk about to stop fires from starting in the first what effect climate change or change place. in the climate has had on that,’’ he reSome of that involves the normal Family managed since 1981 sponded. “But it’s certainly the lack of warnings about burning on windy days, precipitation, and precipitation during making sure if you’re towing a trailthe customary months have affected er that the chain is not scraping the and affect this condition greatly.’’ ground and causing sparks, and not The governor has a mixed record on pulling a vehicle into high grasses where • Fountains LOWER PRICES, the issue of climate change. HUGE • Benches the hot catalytic converter could ignite In 2015, the governor said that, after • Bird Baths materials. LARGEST SELECTION! SELECTION • Ceramics On a more proactive level, the state is being brief by experts, he is convinced OF 480-802-1309 • Stoneware the climate is changing. trying to reduce hazardous vegetation. • Wrought Iron Southern Chandler OVERSIZED “It’s going to get warmer here,’’ he The state has historically tried to • Oversized Pottery 23843 S. Cooper Rd. said at the time. “What I am skeptical “treat’’ about 4,000 to 5,000 acres a POTTERY! • Metal Wall Decor 1/4 Mile S. of Chandler Heights Rd. about is what human activity has to do year, with a goal of hitting 20,000 acres Delivery Available Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. - 5p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Indoor/Outdoor PET Hours: Open Daily 9:00 am - 5:00 pm this year. And that doesn’t count similar with it.’’ Decor CLOSED TUESDAYS & WEDNESDAYS FRIENDLY! programs run by the U.S. Forest Service. • More! One thing helping to meet that goal See on page 17

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NEWS

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

FIRE

from page 16

By 2019 he was willing to put aside that skepticism. Ducey told Capitol Media Services that it only makes sense that people and what they do are having an impact. “Humans are part of the earth, then environment and the ecosystem,’’ he said. But the governor has shown no interest in changing Arizona laws and regulations to reduce greenhouse gases. In that 2019 interview, however, Ducey rejected the idea that Arizona should adopt California-style limits on vehicle emissions – which are tougher than those required by federal law. While originally instituted to fight smog, manufacturers have since agreed with California to increase fuel efficiency to reduce all emissions, including greenhouse gases. “I think you can have a growing economy and an improving environment,’’ the governor said. “That’s what we’re having in Arizona versus what California’s having, which is a mass exodus.’’

JOBS

from page 12

needed in the moment and allowed this recovery to proceed at a much faster rate than that of the Great Recession,” he said. The CARES Act, enacted during the Trump administration, provided unemployment compensation and stimulus checks to those who lost their jobs during the first year of the pandemic, as well as emergency support for businesses affected by the pandemic. The American Rescue Plan Act, created by the Biden administration, extended unemployment benefits and added another stimulus check, among other benefits. Sugrue said the lower unemployment rate is happening for “the right reasons,” which includes steady growth in the labor force. Since falling from 3.47 million in March 2020 to 3.39 million that April, the Arizona labor force has increased every month, reaching 3.54 million in February, the BLS numbers show. “Over the past several months, Arizona labor force and unemployment has ticked up and unemployment has steadily decreased for the right reasons,” he said. “We have a pretty consistent labor force participation rate, so it’s very encouraging that unemployment seems to be falling because individuals are finding jobs, not because they’re leaving the workforce.” Sugrue tempered the good news of a declining unemployment rate by noting that not every industry has recovered from the effects of the pandemic. He said industries like public service, hospitality and education are still suffering from vacancies created by COVID-19. Additionally, the pandemic hit some workers harder than others, Sugrue said. Minority workers were disproportionately impacted by the effects of COVID-19, and they are not seeing the levels of recovery that white workers

Gubernatorial press aide C.J. Karamargin said the view of his boss have not changed and that Ducey remains opposed to tightening up vehicle emission standards even though the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says transportation sources are the largest source of greenhouse gases, exceeding electricity generation and industrial sources. But Karamargin said the state is doing its part. “Arizona is committed to maintaining a diverse energy portfolio which directly impacts the issue,’’ he said. Karamargin also said the state is now home to many firms that can help address the issue, including Lucid Motors which produces an all-electric vehicle in Casa Grande and companies that manufacture the lithium-ion batteries necessary for these kind of vehicles. “If you look at the types of industries, the types of manufacturers we are pursuing and we are getting, there can be no doubt that Gov. Ducey has his eye on the future and the technologies that can address these issues,’’ he said.

Over the past “several months,

Arizona labor force and unemployment has ticked up and unemployment has steadily decreased for the right reasons, we have a pretty consistent labor force participation rate, so it’s very encouraging that unemployment seems to be falling because individuals are finding jobs, not because they’re leaving the workforce.

”

– Andrew Sugrue

are seeing. “We know that the public health and economic crisis fell disproportionately on low-income workers, workers of color and those that were caring for children, specifically women,” Sugrue said. In December 2021, the white unemployment rate nationally was 3.9% compared to a Black unemployment rate of 7.1%, according to data from the Brookings Institution. Because of this, Sugrue said, there is still more that needs to be done to help everyone fully recover economically from the pandemic. “While the trends are positive for all groups lately, we still have to look at the disproportionality in terms of who is benefiting the most in this moment,” Sugrue said.

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NEWS

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

New Arizona organization celebrates baseball BY MIKE PHILLIPS Guest Writer

Baseball is back. But baseball never really leaves the Arizona desert. It’s a year-round enterprise woven into our economy, culture and history. While the Cactus League rules March and the Diamondbacks dominate summer, there is a never-ending menu of baseball on local diamonds. Between the Fall League, extended spring training, instructional and rookie leagues, college, high school and Little League, you can find a game on almost every day of the year. A new nonprofit seeks to celebrate that heritage and educate the public about its impact and significance. It’s called Arizona Baseball Legacy and Experience – ABLE, for short. Arizona’s long been a destination for baseball insiders and fans. The Society for American Baseball Research (the Moneyball people), chose Phoenix as its headquarters a decade ago after a national search. The annual NINE Conference takes place every year in Tempe. It brings together baseball writers, scholars and other aficionados to explore among other things the history, law, sociology, literature, media and architecture of baseball. The event took place earlier this month despite the Major League lockout. One of NINE’s highlights is presen-

The Mesa Historical Museum is home to an extensive collection of Cactus League memorabilia. (Special to the SanTan Sun News)

tation of the Seymour Medal Award, which goes to the best baseball book of the year. The 2022 winner is author Steve Treder for “Forty Years a Giant: The Life of Horace Stoneham.” Stoneham owned the San Francisco Giants for 40 years, starting in 1936. He and the Indian’s Bill Veeck relocated their clubs from Florida to Arizona in 1947, starting the westward movement of teams that created the Cactus League. Today, half of Major League Baseball trains in the Valley. The six weeks of Cactus League bring an economic wind-

fall of nearly $650 million, roughly the impact of a Super Bowl, every year. Baseball radiates here, it’s as much a part of our landscape as granite mountain peaks and swimming pools. We are, without doubt, the center of the baseball universe. That’s a title to cherish, cultivate and celebrate. And that’s the mission of ABLE. Our organization seeks to honor and recognize all things Arizona baseball. That’s a huge goal and one that we know will take time to achieve. But we’re taking first steps. We’re partnering this spring with the Mesa Historical

Museum on an exhibit focused on the Cactus League Hall of Fame. Every member of the Hall of Fame has a story, part of a mosaic that speaks to the magic and allure of Arizona baseball. Tour the exhibit and you’ll learn the journey of Yosh Kawano, who as a child in 1935 stowed away on a boat to attend Cubs training games on Catalina Island. His daring adventure launched a seven-decade career as an equipment manager for Major League clubs. Between his Catalina escapade and See

BASEBALL on page 20

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NEWS

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

Sun Lakes Rotary awards 6 Chandler Uniﬁed orators BY DR. HONORA NORTON Guest Writer

The Rotary Club of Sun Lakes recently held its annual Rotary International Four-Way Test Speech Contest with six students from six different Chandler Unified School District high schools competing. The purpose of the speech is to apply the principles of Rotary International’s Four Way Test to a current ethical issue. Students are challenged to identify a topic they feel passionate about and to adopt a point of view from which they will seek to persuade others. It should be something from the speaker’s personal experience or general knowledge. Each part of the Four-Way Test was addressed during the speech. The Four Way Test addresses: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? Judges at the event included: Bret McKeand (RI District 5495 Governor), Chandler Unified Assistant Superintendent Dr. Craig Gilbert, Chandler Unified Superintendent Frank Narducci, Leo Schlueter (CUSD/RCSL member), Larry Horton (RI District 5495 Governor-Elect), Bonnie Snow (RCSL member/Sun Lakes resident), with Bill Schink (RCSL member/Sun Lakes resident)

Chandler Uniﬁed School District students participating in the annual Sun Lakes Rotary International Four Way Test Speech Competition were, from left, Gauri Murkoth, Disha Sankhla, Wonjeaong “Danny” Han, Mikayla Pelt, Gowri Biju, and Grant Stieber. (Courtesy of Sun Lakes Rotary)

serving as judging auditor. Bill McCoach, RCSL member/Sun Lakes resident and event chairman;, announced that first place with a $500 award went to Gauri Murkoth, a sophomore at Arizona College Prep, who spoke on social media, while second place and $250 was won by Hamilton High sophomore Gowri Biju, who spoke on Herbert Taylor.

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Four runners up, who each won $100, were Basha freshman Disha Sankhla, Chandler High sophomore Mikayla Pelt, Casteel High freshman Wonjeaong “Danny” Han, and Perry freshman Grant Stieber. The Rotary Club of Sun Lakes also recently presented a $500 check to Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA for 10 scholarships to the YMCA’s Safety

Around Water Week’s May 2022 Learn How to Swim Program. Safety Around Water is a program that shows parents, caregivers, and children the importance of water safety skills and provides access to water safety lessons. For more information about Rotary Club of Sun Lakes programs and membership: sunlakesrotary.com.

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NEWS

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

Around Chandler Sun Lakes Republican Club presenting candidates The Sun Lakes Republican Club will feature “Election Year Insights” with candidates for governor, U.S. Senate, and attorney general at its monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. April 13, in the Navajo Room of the Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 S. Sun Lakes Blvd. The public is invited. Among the hopefuls appearing will be gubernatorial candidates Matt Salmon and Steve Gaynor. Blake Masters will speak on his candidacy for the U.S. Senate. And attorney general candidates Lacey Cooper and former State Supreme Court Justice Andrew Gould will speak about their proposed solutions for various issues. State Senator J.D. Mesnard will be first on the agenda with a legislative update. For more information, visit slgop.org or call Mike Tennant at 262880-4620.

Chandler launches 'Golden Neighbor program

The Chandler Neighborhood Programs Office invites seniors in need of free personal hygiene items or household cleaning products to its Golden Neighbors kick-off event at 9:30 a.m. tomorrow, April 11, at the entrance of Chandler City Hall Parking Garage, 240 S. Washington St. Seniors can select free items and learn more about the resources available through the newly launched Golden Neighbors Program. An Amazon grant underwrites Golden Neighbors, designed to provide seniors with everyday resources, including transportation, free personal hygiene items, household cleaning products, assistance with household repairs, or help with resolving code violations. Neighborhood Programs partnered with the Chandler Salvation Army to create a stockpile of hygiene and household items. For more information on Golden Neighbors, or how to get involved as a volunteer, call 480-782-4348 or email neighborhood.programs@chandleraz.gov. In the coming months, there also will be more information online at chandleraz.gov/GoldenNeighbors

BASEBALL

from page 18

his Major League career, Kawano was held at a World War II Japanese internment camp near Yuma. That, too, is part of his story and part of the Mesa exhibit. Kawano’s camp would grow to 18,000 residents, making it the third largest “city” in Arizona. Baseball, already deeply ingrained

t? o G ws Ne

about how to contribute monetarily, or what items are most needed by our older adult community.

Chandler’s Family Easter Celebration is returning starting at 9 a.m. Saturday, April 16, at Snedigar Sportsplex, 4500 S. Basha. Children 9 and younger can hop down the 24 Karrot Trail and hunt for the Golden Karrot to claim a prize. It will last as long as there are eggs to hunt.

Big City Insulation, an insulation and window blinds contractor, has entered a long-term $1.2 million lease for 22,853 square feet of space at 221 E. Willis Road, Chandler. The company provides insulation and window blinds for commercial and residential clients. “The new space features a highly desirable end cap with plenty of parking and loading space,” NAI said in a release, noting that Big City will occupy over a quarter of the 7-yearold building’’s 75,217 square feet of space.

Pitcher Cody Bellinger lists his Chandler home for sale

Chandler offers in-person spring HOA Academy

Chandler Easter celebration planned for April 16

Los Angeles Dodgers star Cody Bellinger has listed his Chandler home for sale. The 4,500-square foot estate in West Chandler is listed for just under $4 million. It comes with its own batting cage in the backyard. It has three bedrooms and four and a half baths. It’s listed by Cody’s mother, Jennifer, who is a real estate agent with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. The home was built in 2020 and was listed for sale in late February. Bellinger was a star for Hamilton High School and won the National League’s Most Valuable Player award in 2019.

Viavi moves headquarters to Chandler from Silicon Valley

Viavi Solutions Inc. is moving its corporate headquarters to Chandler and opening a manufacturing location here. The company is a global leader in network testing and optical technologies. It leased 15,000 square feet inside the Allred Park Place development on Spectrum Boulevard. The company had called Silicon Valley in California home. The manufacturing facility in a 104,000-square-foot building on South McQueen Road near Queen Creek Road. The original plan was to have both inside the same facility, but they changed those plans when they realized they needed more space. The move is expected to bring another 230 jobs to Chandler.

The city Neighborhood Resources Department’s HOA Academy returns to in-person sessions this spring. The City’s HOA Academy educates residents and homeowner association board members about the various tools, resources and recent legislation that impacts their community. All four sessions are scheduled from 5-6:30 p.m. and will focus on: April 13. HOA Bootcamp: Attendees will learn the ABCs of HOAs/condos and board members’ roles and responsibilities. There will be question-and-answer session after the presentation. April 27. Hot topics May 1. How HOAs and condos can work effectively with owners, HOA/ condo management companies and other vendors May 25. Neighborhood Programs: City staff will share information about code enforcement, grants, community building programs and tips on how to connect with the community. The free sessions will be held at the Chandler Nature Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Road and will be taught by Mulcahy Law Firm, P.C. Residents can RSVP online at chandleraz.gov/HOAacademy or email neighborhood.programs@chandleraz.gov.

Chandler-Gilbert CC student wins aviation scholarship

Company signs $1.2M lease for Willis Road space

Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. has awarded an aviation scholarship to Lynn Burnett, a Chandler-Gilbert Community College student earning an associate degree in applied

in Japanese American culture, would become the No. 1 pastime at the camps. Baseball, many internees say, helped them cope with the isolation and pain of that dark time. At one camp near Maricopa, there were 32 teams competing in three different leagues. Games drew thousands of spectators. On display in Mesa are stories from that era plus a jersey, baseball, photos and a championship banner.

Yosh Kawano’s unlikely voyage and the internment camp leagues are just two of many stories you’ll discover at the Mesa exhibit. Each one is part of our collective heritage and a connection to a game that’s ingrained in our society and geography. Baseball is America’s game and a gem in the crown of our state. Arizona Baseball Legacy ad Experience seeks to celebrate that relationship -- past, present and future.

science in airway science technology with a flight emphasis. TB2 is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the history of aviation in Scottsdale and supporting Dogs4Vets. Burnett comes from a military family; his father served in the U.S. Air Force and his grandfather, the U.S. Army. Like his grandfather, he served in the U.S. Army for over 13 years as an infantryman, machine gunner, squad and platoon leader, and airborne ranger instructor. He earned the rank of staff sergeant and was a member of the elite 75th Ranger Regiment. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Troy University and rose to the rank of captain. His military career included numerous missions and deployments to Latin and South America, including the DMZ in Korea. He has received many military honors and awards and was inducted into the U.S. Army Ranger Hall Fame on Jan. 29. After the military, he worked in developing his own business enterprise, including mortgage broker and real estate agent. However, he never gave up his dream to become a pilot and he received his private pilot’s license in November 2021. His goal is to continue his education in aviation, become a certified flight instructor, and help other people like him realize their dreams.

Chandler Legion plans golf tourney to help veterans

The Wayne McMartin American Legion Post 91 in Chandler is looking for players to participate in its eighth annual Memorial Golf Outing April 23 at San Marcos Golf Resort. All proceeds will benefit veterans and Post 91 charities. The event begins with a 7:30 a.m. shotgun start and the cost is $125 per player, which includes golf, a cart, drink coupons, gift bag and lunch. There will be raffles and prizes for hole in one as well as other events. Post 91 supports programs aimed at reducing the number of veteran suicides and homelessness among veterans. It also supports Matthew’s Cross Food Bank. For sponsorship and ticket information: Mike Simon at 480-204-4960 or mike0369@yahoo.com.

Learn more by visiting us online at ABLEAZ.org and check out the Mesa Historical Museum exhibit. The museum, 2345 N. Horne Road, is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and $4 for youth 6-17. Museum members and children 5 and under are free. Mike Phillips is board president of the nonprofit Arizona Baseball Legacy and Experience.

Contact Paul C Contact Paul P l Maryniak Maryniak M y i k at at 480-898-5647 480 898 5647 or or pmaryniak@timespublications.com p pmaryniak@timespublications.com pmaryniak@timespublications y i k@ i p bli i com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

SUMMER 2022

Special Supplement to The SanTan Sun News

HEALTH

WELLNESS

Your Local Guide to Better Living

Summer 2022

Kelly Jorn Cook’s dentistry has 3 decades of service patients of all ages in a stress-free, fun environment. Our unique approach to dentistry is in the office atmosphere.” While providing “the highest quality of dentistry,” he said he creates an environment of more fun and less fear. Cook balances “being the doc that rocks and with keeping it simple” and is continually upgrading his ability and knowledge through continuing dental education and encourages and supports his staff to do the same. “What you see with the doc is what you get: great dentistry and a really good time,” he said.

SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Dr. Kelly Jorn Cook, D.D.S., offers a wide range of dentistry services to suit almost any dental need. Located at 3800 W. Ray Road, Chandler, his practice includes the most recent dental technologies to make a patient’s visit safe, convenient, painless and positive. “We offer full-service dentistry, including dental implants, Invisalign, and cosmetic restorations,” Cook said. “The entire team strives to provide the highest quality personalized dental care for

Dr. Kelly Jorn Cook, D.D.S.

When not practicing dentistry, he is golfing with his wife or hanging out with their 12 dogs. “The health and well-being of our patients and team members continues to be our top priority,” Cook added. “We practice all COVID-19 safety protocols and are seeing patients by appointment only. Many of these safeguards have always been a part of our practice, but we have taken additional precautions to ensure your protection for your appointment.” Information: kellyjorncook.com

Nursing college expands to Arizona just in time BY JOSH ORTEGA Staff Writer

Experts say a shortage of nurses may worsen over the next few years but help has arrived in Mesa. Alverno College held a ribbon-cut-

ting ceremony recently at its new Mesa location at 1201 South Alma School Road, Suite 5450. Mayor John Giles and Councilman Francisco Heredia attended the ceremony, along with college leaders and alums. This moment comes at a crucial time

when the area and its medical staff have already experienced trying times, the mayor said. “This is good for the residents of Mesa and for the health industry, leading to more qualified health professionals to fulfill workforce needs in our city

and the region,” Giles said. The 13,000-square-foot facility houses classrooms, offices and a stateof-the art simulation lab. It sits inside the Financial Plaza building – the tallest See

ALVERNO on page 22

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SUMMER 2022

Village of Ocotillo offers many activities BY THE VILLAGE OF OCOTILLO

Imagine being immersed in a world filled with all kinds of cultural, educational, social and physical opportunities. Now imagine that world existing just a few steps from your front door. For residents at The Village at Ocotillo, each day offers opportunities for a wide range of activities. The community’s amenities, personalized care services, innovative programs and freedom from day to day maintenance gives residents the opportunity to create their own blueprint for living well. “Our residents are proof of the correlation between exercise and aging,” said Heather Phillips, executive director at The Village at Ocotillo. “From instructor-led classes to our state-of-the-art fitness center with machines designed specifically for seniors, The Village offers an inviting environment—whether a resident is just beginning an exercise program or is a lifelong fitness enthusiast.” Residents looking to improve their

balance will find the community’s targeted BALANCE & POSTURE fitness class on Tuesdays focuses on strengthening leg, core, and arm muscles. For those looking to take it to the next level, standing TAI CHI classes are offered to help increase flexibility and endurance and weekly Strength Training is a workout designed to challenge while still being modified for older adults. Complimenting this full calendar of activities are onsite, personalized care services. Should the need for additional assistance arise, The Village at Ocotillo’s assisted living allow residents to live vibrant, engaged lifestyles while being fully supported. Friendly, dedicated and professional staff is available to help with daily activities and managing medications through personal and supportive care, which can be increased or decreased based on individual needs. The Village at Ocotillo will hold an informational “Lunch & Learn “ at 11:30 a.m. April 13. RSVP: 480-400-8687 or TheVillageatOcotillo.com .

Cutting the ribbon for Alverno College’s new nursing school in Mesa are, from left, Mayor John Giles, Alverno College President Andrea Lee, and Synergis CEO Norm Allgood. (Special to STSN)

ALVERNO

from page 21

building in Mesa, and in the heart of Heredia’s district. Heredia called the college a “huge addition” to the area. “It will help in the revitalization of the Fiesta District and meet the growing demand for nurses throughout the Valley,” he said. Alverno will offer a direct entry master of science in nursing program at its Mesa location. This program originally launched in partnership with Arizona-based Synergis Education on its flagship Milwaukee, Wisconsin, campus in January 2020. The DEMSN will award graduates both a bachelor of science and a master of science in nursing. The 77-credit program is designed to be completed with full-time study in 18 to 20 months. It’s designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field and will prepare them to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) exam. Enrollment has already begun with the first classes expected to begin in August 2022. At full capacity, the private, nonprofit college, which was

established in 1887, will be able to accommodate more than 200 students annually at its Mesa location. The college said it’s already forging impressive clinical relationships with Banner Health and the Mayo Clinic. As its presence in Mesa develops, the college hopes to bring attention to its other innovative degree programs. Founded in 1887 by the School Sisters of St. Francis, Alverno College is a fouryear, private Catholic liberal arts college. In April 2021, Maricopa County had 5,685 Registered Nurse vacancies, a 40% increase from the previous year. “We are thrilled to launch this program in a region where there is so much demand for skilled, compassionate health care providers,” Alverno College President Andrea Lee said. With more than 500,000 RNs expected to retire by 2022, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the need for 1.1 million new RNs for expansion and replacement of those retirees, and to avoid a nursing shortage. They project the employment of registered nurses to grow 9% from 2020 to 2030. “Alverno has always sought to meet the needs of the time,” Lee said.

THE POWER OF

MOVING From fearless athletes to the world’s oldest yogi, everyone has their own reasons for moving. But one thing is true for all of us: movement energizes us, makes us stronger and nurtures our souls. In other words, keeping moving is the key to good health—whatever your age. Residents at The Village at Ocotillo senior living community enjoy the signature ZEST™ fitness program, Cardio, Strength & Balance™, created to promote the core elements of good health—no matter one’s age, fitness level, or goals. Join us for our upcoming event to learn more.

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

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Legendary Wild Horse raceway will be closing next February BY PAUL MARYNIAK Executive Editor

After four decades of racing thrills, Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park will be closed forever next year as the Gila River Indian Community’s development arm takes a giant step toward creating a 3,300-acre entertainment-retail-office complex. The Wild Horse Pass Development Authority announced March 25 the former Firebird International Raceway would hold its final National Hot Rod Association race (NHRA) next February at the 440-acre complex that includes a drag strip, road course and 2.4-mile oval motorboat racing lake. “For nearly 40 years, the NHRA, in conjunction with the Wild Horse Pass Development Authority, has wowed Arizona spectators and fans at the fastest quarter-mile in Arizona,” its brief announcement on social media stated. “Wild Horse Pass Development Authority is excited to celebrate the final race of this storied racetrack, February 2023.” Authority Interim General Manager Elizabeth Antone added, “Arizona has been an incredible supporter of the NHRA and Wild Horse Pass Motorsport Park for the past four decades and we are very grateful for this tremendous fan support. We know this final race will be a celebration that NHRA fans are famous for.” Neither tribal nor authority officials returned phone calls and emails seeking further comment. Also not commenting was Sunbelt

This vision of Wild Horse Pass Development Authority’s proposed 3,300-acre development was released early last year. (File photo)

Holdings, a Scottsdale development company that was charged by the GRIC early last year with leading the creation of a mega-complex that would include additional hotels, wellness and event centers, an outdoor amphitheater for concerts, sports facilities, outdoor recreation and parks, restaurants, retail establishments and an office park. When the tribe and Sunbelt announced the development plan in January 2021, Sunbelt President John Graham said, “The stuff we do is long term in nature,” he said. “Our first plan is kind of a 10-year plan but I would believe between this land and other tribal land around it that it’s a 30-year

build-out.” The Wild Horse Pass Authority has been promoting that development on its website as a federal Opportunity Zone, where companies can secure big tax breaks for developing new properties and upgrading existing ones in areas designated as economically distressed. “Where Interstate 10 Meets Loop 202, Opportunity Meets Its Destination,” the authority states, noting the “3,300-acre master planned commercial development (is) offering sites for: entertainment, retail, office and themed attractions. Available sites range in size to accommodate from 1,000 to 1,000,000 square feet with no

real-property tax.” Phoenix Rising, the state’s largest professional soccer team, last year opened a new 6,200-seat stadium on the site. The tribe also had made a pitch to host the 2021 Arizona State Fair as the pandemic threatened its usual Phoenix site, but fair officials decided the site lacked sufficient infrastructure to accommodate hundreds of thousands of fair visitors and that time was too short to address major issues there. While the raceway is going away, an adjacent school that teaches racing and other sophisticated driving techniques isn’t moving. “The recent announcement regarding the future of the drag racing track at Wildhorse Pass Motorsports Park will not have an impact on our operations or course offerings,” said Mike Kessler, general manager at Radford Racing School. “Our legendary 1.6-mile racetrack is the heart and soul of our school, and we’ll continue to be a world-class driver training facility and motorsports destination for performance enthusiasts worldwide,” Kessler added. Radford Racing School takes its name from Radford Motors, a legendary British car manufacturer with brands like Rolls Royce and Bentley. The school’s four owners bought the property after the 50-year-old Bondurant School of High Performance Driving tanked several years ago in a multimillion-dollar bankruptcy case. Following the Wild Horse Pass DeSee

MOTOR on page 24

Downtown, south Chandler office buildings change owners SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Three recent real estate sales in Chandler totaling more than $100 million resulted in new owners taking over a downtown office building. Developer George Oliver sold The Alexander at 25 S. Arizona Place in Chandler to Asana Partners for $45.5 million - more than twice the $16.3 million he paid for the 112,000-square-foot building in October 2019, according to the Valley real estate tracker, vizzda.com. Meanwhile, EVOXAZ Chandler Airpark LLC paid $45,5 million to acquire Kitchell Airpark on Cessna Drive in Chandler. Built last year, the complex includes two industrial buildings with a total square footage of just over 1,480,000 square feet on 9.2 acres of land, according to vizzda. In a third unrelated transaction recently, Dobson Town Place, a 44,000 square-foot single-story medical and professional office in south Chandler, sold for $10,300,000 or $232 per square foot. James “J.T.” Taylor of ORION Investment Real Estate represented seller, Off Five LLC, in the transaction with

George Oliver recently sold The Alexander office building in downtown Chandler for more than twice what it paid for the building three years ago. (File photo)

buyer Stratton Road Realty, which is expanding its footprint in Valley. ccording to a release from ORION, Irvine, California-based Stratton Road Realty sees Dobson Town Place “as a strategic acquisition” because of its proximity to Intel’s Ocotillo campus and the new Banner Ocotillo Medical Center in Chandler. Stratton Road Realty LLC in Dobson Town Place was developed in 2007-08 and the property is 100% occupied, leased to a mix of medical, professional office, and retail tenants.

“This property was highly sought after due to its high demographic location in south Chandler, its tenant mix and quality of construction” said Taylor. Meanwhile, Charleston, North Carolina-based Asana Partners paid about $424 per foot to acquire The Alexander, a 5-story building built in 1988 on two acres that includes a 120,000-squarefoot parking garage. Oliver’s massive renovation of The Alexander – and his subsequent renovation of the adjacent The Johnathan –

was marked by a health-centered vision that prioritized amenities aimed at fostering tenants’ physical and mental well-being. It includes a wellness center, coffee-juice bar, lounge-styled outdoor areas with games, a yoga studio, spa-inspired showers and even a tranquil garden. The company’s related John Oliver Design also upgraded the building’s main HVAC systems and elevators to optimize air quality and functionality. Asana Partners is a vertically integrated real estate investment company and private equity fund manager that boast of long experience in “preserving and redeveloping existing buildings, mitigating portfolio-wide energy and water consumption, employing wind, solar, and waste management programs, developing LEED-certified buildings, and increasing the number of LEED-trained associates. “ It says on its website it manages and owns more than $2 billion in neighborhood mixed-use and retail redevelopments and developments across the United States.

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

MOTOR

with construction presumably set to begin sometime in 2023,” dragzine said. “Mind you, this highway overpass was not part of the The Wild Horse Pass Development Authority plans shown to the public last January (2021), so this is clearly a recent development, and one that vastly shortened the time that Arizona locals thought they had left to enjoy the facility.” The only problem is that there are no existing plans to overhaul that interchange in the near future, according to

from page 23

velopment Authority’s announcement, the racing fan website dragzine.com said the Motorsports Park closing was related to a pending overhaul of the Wild Horse Pass Exit on the I-10. “Wild Horse Pass officials shared rather unceremoniously via its social media channels that a new overpass/ roadway for the I-10 extension will use the space now occupied by the track,

the Maricopa Association of Governments, a leading agency for transportation development in the county. That reconstruction at this point has yet to make the drawing board, according to John Bullen, MAG transportation economic and finance program manager. “It’s still in the planning stage, if you will,” Bullen said. “We’ve been working with Gila River Indian Community a lot over the last several years, quite honestly. And, there’s been some discussion – I would say, there’s been interest for a

new (interchange) sort of in that vicinity.” Bullen said MAG also has been discussing improvements to State Route 347 along the southeastern edge of the proposed mega-development site. “Right now, we’re sort of waiting for information from them: what their concept is, what those plans are, what that development is,” he said. “There’s this acknowledgment, and commitment that, ‘hey, we’re going to improve access to the Wild Horse Pass area, but we don’t know what that looks like.’”

As rents increase, eviction rates lower than 2019 SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Evictions in March in Maricopa County hit a 10-year high for March but the pace of those legal actions is still 9% behind pre-pandemic 2019. “There has been a gradual increase in eviction filings since the CDC Order expired last August,” said Scott Davis, public information director for the Maricopa County Justice Courts. “This is what the Maricopa County Justice Courts expected all along, despite dire predictions of a so-called ‘tsunami.’” Still, Davis said, the 4,700 eviction cases filed in March meant “this was the busiest March we’ve had in a decade.” A group of faculty and student researchers at Princeton University offered more analysis of eviction trends in the county in their blog, evictionlab.org. Confirming that “eviction filings in Maricopa County fell sharply in April 2020 and have remained below historical averages,” evictionlab.org reported last week that a fifth of all eviction filings since the pandemic began have involved just 10 buildings. Of those, eight are in Phoenix and one each are in Mesa and Cave Creek, it said. The eviction trends come at a time when rents continue to rise in the county at record rates. Rent.com reported that nationally, year-over-year in February, rents nationally had increased 7.8% for single-family houses, 24.4% for one-bedroom apartments and 21.8% for two-bedroom units. Rent.com is run by redfin, a Seatle-based real estate brokerage. The overall annual increase in rent between 2020 and 2021 in Arizona was a staggering 49.4% for a one-bedroom unit and 45% for a two-bedroom apartment, according to the website. We Offer Federal Travel Identifications • Vehicle Registration • Title Transfer / Bond Title • Duplicate registration / iitle • Replacement Plate Or TAB • Permit 3, 30, 90 day • Level One Inspection: Abandoned title inspection • Mobile home • Handicap placard / plate • MVR / Driver license record • Fleet registration

Maricopa County Justice Courts spokesman Scott Davis said this chart shows eviction trends since 2019, which is used as a baseline because it was the last full year when there were no pandemic-related rental assistance programs.

For one-bedroom apartments, rent. com said, Chandler and Mesa had the second-highest and 10th-highest percentage rent increases in the country, respectively. It reported a 50.8% overall

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increase in Chandler and a 30.6% hike in Mesa. Only Long Beach, California, had a higher year-to-year increase in one-bedroom rent with 56.7%. Year-over-year one-bedroom rent in Phoenix in February rose 8.2% – slightly lower than Tucson’s 9.2% increase in the same time period, according to rent.com. Rent.com attributed a significant part of spiraling rent increases to decreased supply, illustrated by the U.S. Census Bureau’s report that apartment vacancy rates by the end of last year have fallen to their lowest in 37 years. “Increasing rents, pandemic-related financial issues, rising inﬂation and a lack of

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Don’t make tax season harder for Arizona small businesses BY TERRI KIMBLE Guest Writer

Tax season can be a challenging time for Arizona small business owners who help power our local economies. After all, dealing with the IRS can be frustrating even under the best of circumstances. But this tax season is expected to be even more difficult than usual due to a massive backlog of over 24 million returns that the IRS has yet to process from last year. Given the challenges that Arizona small businesses have faced over the last several years, we should be finding ways to make it easier – not harder – for them to get through the upcoming tax season. Unfortunately, some lawmakers in Washington are considering a proposal that would substantially expand the

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reach of the IRS, limit taxpayers’ control over their own filings and make tax season even more frustrating for businesses and individuals alike. If passed, this proposal would give the IRS unprecedented new responsibilities and create a government-run tax filing system. This would mean that the IRS wouldn’t just determine how much you owe in taxes, the government would also be filing your return for you. This raises several important issues. First, the IRS shouldn’t be the collector of your taxes and your accountant, that’s a clear conflict of interest. There’s a good reason that so many in our community turn to trained and trusted tax professionals every year – because they fight to make sure Arizonans get every cent they are owed. They also get personalized service from accountants that they have come to know and trust with their family’s hard-earned money.

If supporters have their way, taxpayers would have to trust that a bureaucrat in Washington would do the same due diligence for them – along with millions of other Americans – when they are already stretched to the limits before this tax season even starts? That scheme is a recipe for disaster. Business owners know that it’s critical to excel at your core services before trying to expand those services. Currently, the IRS is far from exceling. If you call the IRS, there’s only a 1 in 50 chance that you will actually get through to a representative. What’s more, even the agency’s own internal watchdog said in January that the IRS is currently ‘in crisis.’ Now is hardly the time to be adding a massive new service that could further delay Arizonans’ refunds. Lastly, a new study shows that the resources needed to develop, test, update, and protect such a system at the IRS would cost as much – if not

more – than it did to establish the healthcare.gov website. To date, that government-run site has cost taxpayers over $21 billion and been plagued with consistent technical difficulties and privacy concerns. At the Chandler Chamber of Commerce, we believe in helping to create a nurturing environment for the economic engines of our community. That means making sure policies in Washington don’t create additional and unnecessary challenges for Arizona taxpayers especially when they will impact the livelihood and financial circumstances of millions of Arizonians. On behalf of the hardworking business owners in Chandler and their customers, I hope that Senators Kyrsten Sinema and Mark Kelly will stop this misguided proposal before it’s too late. Terri Kimble is the president and CEO of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce.

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EV Assistance League has big hopes for casino night BY SARAH AUFFRET Guest Writer

Members of Assistance League of East Valley are gearing up for their annual fundraiser, “Rolling on the High Seas” Casino Night on April 30 at Oakwood Country Club in Sun Lakes. Their goal is not only to raise money for East Valley school children and families, but to bring in new members to the group, according to Marsha Calhoun of Chandler, chair for the event. “We are a small but mighty group of volunteers who have a major impact in the community,” she said. “We provided new school uniforms and clothes to over 10,000 children in six East Valley school districts last year, and we donated 4,500 assault survivor kits to hospitals, fire and police departments. We supplied clothes and food to homeless teens and provided 13 college scholarships last year. “We are passionate about what we do, and we have a great time together. The impact of what we do is so far-reaching, but we could do so much more if more people knew about us.” The league, which has no paid staff, raises funds through their upscale thrift shop at 2326 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler, as well as through grants and donations. Many members say working a shift at the thrift shop is one of their favorite

We are passionate “ about what we do, and

we have a great time together. The impact of what we do is so far-reaching, but we could do so much more if more people knew about us.

”

– Marsha Calhoun

Getting revved up for their casino night are Assistance League fo East Valley members, from left, Carolyn Larsen, Marsha Calhoun and Sue Niesz. (Special to STSN)

activities, greeting regular shoppers who line up outside the door. The shop is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. “Rolling on the High Seas” Casino Night will combine cruise ship fun with live music, a silent auction, buffet dinner of herb crusted beef tenderloin and lemon butter chicken, and table games run by professional dealers. A $75 ticket will also entitle guests to a free champagne reception and $500 in casino play money. Michael Pollack of Michael A. Pollack

Real Estate Investments is title sponsor for this year’s event. Pollack has been a longtime supporter of Assistance League of East Valley, providing much-needed funding and other support. Two special auction items will be one-of-a-kind jewelry designed by Michael’s Creative Jewelry and tickets to a Keith Urban concert Sept. 8 at Footprint Center. This exceptional night will include parking, a suite, and food. Other auction items include cooking lessons

at Malee’s Thai Bistro, golf packages, jewelry, artwork, Gammage and Cardinals tickets, a wine tour at Page Springs Cellars, gift baskets and tickets to many other events. Doors open at 5 p.m. for the champagne reception, with dinner at 6 p.m. at Oakwood Country Club, 24218 S. Oakwood Blvd., Sun Lakes. Reservations for the event are due by April 20 and are available online at assistanceleague. org/east-valley/rolling-on-the-highseas-casino-night or by mail or in person at their thrift shop. For more information, contact Mary Louise Lansbarkis at 480-895-7938 or Marsha Calhoun at mcalhoun430@ yahoo.com.

Prize-winning robotics team aims high BY KEN SAIN Staff Writer

Sure, the Chandler-based Degrees of Freedom robotics team is inspiring others around the world, but it’s the impact they are having in their own homes that can put a smile on their face. “Seeing people like us is definitely an encouragement,” said Natalie Rodriguez, captain of the 17-person team sponsored by the Si Se Puede Foundation. “Personally, my little sister was never involved with STEM, but she came to one of our outreach events, and she had the ability to touch the robot for the first time, and after that she wants to join the team,” added Natalie, a Chandler High student. What makes Degrees of Freedom stand out is the majority of team members are girls and racial minorities. Only seven of 17 members are boys. That makes them a rare sight when they compete against other teams at robotics competitions. “Typically, it has been more male dominated, than female,” Natalie said. “Or if I ask, it has been like we have two girls total, out of like the 30 dudes.” “And on top of that, all of the girls that we’ve seen, or all of the girls that we’ve interacted with on other teams, are not given the same chances as the

From left, Natali Rodriguez, Mason Lebsack, Elizabeth Seatin and Quincy Dozier of the Si Se Puede Foundation STEM Center show off their robot. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

males on their team, they’re more put on like a back-burner position,” said Tanisha Baliga, the team’s outreach co-

ordinator and a Hamilton High School student. Degrees of Freedom placed seventh

at the Arizona Valley Regional in March. That earned them a trip to the world championships at the end of this month in Houston. Each team had to design a robot that could do a number of different tasks. First, it had to differentiate colors and pick up basketball balls inside the playing area. They were either red or blue, and they had to pick up their assigned color. Then, they had to shoot the ball at a target. If they went for the top target at about 10 feet tall, that was two points. If they went for the much easier lower target around 4 feet tall, that was only a point. Six robots were competing at the same time, and they could play defense as well as offense. After that, as a bonus See

ROBOTICS on page 27

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

The show goes on for Chandler seniors

BY KEN SAIN Staff Writer

It didn’t take Trevor Groth long to know his show was going to be a success. “This is the first one, I did do the virtual show last year, but this is the first one I’ve done before an audience,” Groth said of the Spice of Life Senior Variety Show last month at the Chandler Center for the Arts. “I didn’t get the full experience last year, but in the matinee show, after that first act came off stage, the audience was just so responsive. A lot of them were just excited to be back.” Chandler seniors got a chance to show off their stage talents at the annual Spice of Life Senior Variety Show. They included 1) Jesse Washington, who belted out “Unchained Melody” for the audience; 2) The Trilogy Tappers, all of whom live in the Trilogy at Power Ranch community; 3) Addie Bates, who sang “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers;” and 4) The Dream Steppers, who performed a tap routine to “Chattanooga Choo Choo.”

As the city’s recreation coordinator, he was in charge of the first senior talent show the city has done since 2019. The show two years ago was days away from taking place when the pandemic began and public gatherings went away. Last year, they asked a few acts to perform before a camera to do a virtual show. Jesse Washington, who performed ‘Unchained Melody’ and ‘Mr. Bojangles’ at this year’s show, said it was great to be in front of an audience again. “Everybody was really excited to get back together again,” said Mary Anne Asciutto, who performed ‘All That Jazz.’ “We were all so happy to see everyone

come back.” Groth said many of the performers are veterans who have been part of this show for a number of years. He said one of the biggest challenges they had to overcome was figuring out how to make everyone feel comfortable coming back with the pandemic still underway. “We’re still kind of dealing with everybody’s emotions, their feelings about if they wanted to come out or not,” he said. “Luckily, we’ve had quite a few people who have been a regular part of the show who came back.” Two of those people were Director Arlene Strandberg and Emcee Rose-

(David Minton/Staff Photographer)

ROBOTICS

from page 26

challenge, their robot had to climb up three monkey bars. Degrees of Freedom did not go for that during regionals, but has since added that capability to its robot, Red Bull. They plan on doing that challenge at nationals. The team was awarded the Chairman’s Award at regionals for its impact on the community. Being a team of mostly girls and racial minorities was cited in how it is impacting the community. The team builds the robot from scratch, using 3D printers. Members do

all the computer coding themselves. They have some mentor volunteers, students from Arizona State University or mentors provided by some of the top tech companies in the region, who also provide equipment and financial support. That will help when they get to Houston, where about 400 teams are expected to compete, some of them that have been sponsored by NASA. “In Houston we’re competing only with the best of the best, so we’re definitely really excited to go there,” Natalie said.

Prithika Chauhan monitors the robot as it shoots balls into the goal. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

mary Morton. Groth said it was their 20th show together. In the days before the show took place, a couple of performers in the second act became ill. The show must go on, so they shuffled together a new lineup for the second act. “Arlene and Rosemary, with those two professionals in the field, they were able to pull it together,” Groth said. There were three auditions in January to earn a spot in the show, Groth said. “It’s fun to see the talent of the seniors here,” Asciutto said. “There’s a true love of singing, of performing.”

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Traveling ‘American Farmer’ exhibit at Chandler Museum SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

A new traveling exhibition, “American Farmer,” has arrived at Chandler Museum. Running through May 25, it features 45 portraits, by photographer Paul Mobley, showing the geographic and cultural diversity of those who grow the nation’s food. “The portraits capture the soul of our country’s farm communities and document a rural culture that remains rooted in the principles of tradition, family, integrity, and hard work,” a museum spokeswoman said in a release. Crisscrossing the country, from Alaska to Florida, Mobley and his camera were welcomed into the homes of hundreds of farm families. Mobley came to know the independent farmer’s spirit from both behind the lens and across the dinner table. The resulting images show farmers with a strong sense of where they belong in the universe, a close connection to the land, and a willingness to take risks. The images are accompanied by stories in the farmers’ own words that are both a testament to their enduring hospitality and a glimpse into the hardships and joys of a quickly disappearing

The “American Farmer” exhibit offers striking photographs of farmers across the natuon. (Special to SanTan Sun News)

way of life—one that once defined our national identity and now struggles to remain vital. From Jim Taber, a young single father raising cattle in Montana, to Shirley Schollenberg, the daughter of Alaskan homesteaders, Mobley’s heroic photographs reveal the true face of American

farming. “They remind us what it means to live with simplicity, contentment, and decency in a world that so often forgets,” the spokeswoman said. “American Farmer” was curated and organized by ExhibitsUSA, a program of Mid-America Arts Alliance.

“One of the reasons we are hosting this show is to connect Chandler’s agricultural past to farmers across the nation,” said Jillian Nakornthap, exhibits curator at Chandler Museum. “We’re adding historic photographs and objects from Chandler to show the breadth of the farming in our area.” From noon-12:30 p.m. May 3, the museum’s History Bites program will present “Arizona Agriculture, Then and Now by Arizona Farm Bureau Outreach Director Julie Murphree. RSVP on Eventbrite.com. Chandler Museum is located at 300 S. Chandler Village Drive and is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday 1-5 p.m. Closed Monday. Free admission. Information: chandlermuseum.org, or 480-782-2717. ExhibitsUSA, a national program of Mid-America Arts Alliance, sends more than 25 exhibitions on tour to over 100 small- and mid-sized communities a year to “create access to an array of arts and humanities experiences, nurture the understanding of diverse cultures and art forms, and encourage the expanding depth and breadth of cultural life in local communities.” Information:eusa.org.

Center for the Arts offers electric lineup for 2022-23

Vanity Tour: is Sept. 11 but already sold out.

SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Chandler Center for the Arts has unveiled its initial shows for the 2022-23 season. Advanced tickets are on sale to members of the Chandler Center for the Arts ($50 and above) through April 28, with individual tickets going on sale on various dates in April and May at chandlercenter.org. Most of the early shows listed below already are on sale to the general public. Additional concerts for the 2022/23 season will be announced periodically with Members receiving pre-sale announcements to purchase the best seats. For information on how to become a member, visit chandlercenter. org/member or call 480-792-2680.

Corinne Bailey Rae

With Special Guest Jensen McRae 7 p.m. July 10 GRAMMY Award winner/singer/ songwriter/musician, Corinne Bailey Rae, shot to stardom with her global hits, “Put Your Records On,“ “Like A Star,” and being featured on Herbie Hancock’s River: The Joni Letters. The British singer-songwriter and guitarist is known for her silky smooth brand of R&B.

One Night Of Queen

Performed by Gary Mullen and The Works

The Magic Of Bill Blagg Live!

7:30 p.m. Sept. 23 Teleporting across theaters, squishing his body from six feet to six inches tall, or passing through the blades of an industrial fan, award-winning illusionist Bill Blagg is the master of jaw-dropping moments. Blagg’s action-packed show features random audience volunteers levitating in mid-air, while others disappear at a moment’s notice. These new, never-before-seen illusions surprise and delight audiences of all ages, making this show the perfect choice for a family fun night.

Get The Led Out The Australian Pink Floyd Show will rock the Chandler Center for the Arts in August.

(Chandler Center for the Arts)

Gary Mullen & The Works perform One Night of Queen, a spectacular live concert recreating the look, sound, pomp and showmanship of one of the great rock bands. In 2000, Gary Mullen won the “Stars In Their Eyes” Live Grand Final as Freddie Mercury, with the most votes ever cast in the show’s history. Since 2002, Gary Mullen and The Works have played to sellout crowds in the UK, USA, Europe and New Zealand.

The Australian Pink Floyd Show:

7 p.m. Aug. 21. The “All That’s To Come” Tour replicates the music from every phase of Pink Floyd’s journey, from Ummagumma to The Division Bell and all albums in between. Lights, lasers, video and gargantuan inflatables, paired with flawless live sound, TAPFS guarantees to deliver a memorable concert experience.

Weird Al Yankovic

“The Unfortunate Return of the Ridiculously Self-Indulgent Ill-Advised

7:30 p.m. Sept. 24. Get ready for an awe-inspiring evening of the blues-soaked, groove-driven rock anthems of Led Zeppelin performed by Get the Led Out (GTLO). From the bombastic and epic, to the folky and mystical, this band of six veteran musicians captures the essence of the recorded music of the iconic band and brings it to the stage like you have never heard before.

Hasta La Muerte

With Las Cafeteras Las Cafeteras presents this new See

CENTER on page 29

GET OUT

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

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was their breathtaking vocals, humor, and cowboy charm that made them champions on America’s Got Talent in 2009. In 2019, they were listed as one of the Top 10 Classical Crossover Artists by Billboard Magazine, ranked with Andrea Bocelli, Lindsey Stirling and Sarah Brightman.

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enthralling production rooted in the Indigenous Mexican practice of celebrating Life and Death. In honoring the ancestors who came before us, Hasta La Muerte is a passionate, multi-dimensional performance filled with Zapateado, dance, song, altares y flores with their uniquely East Angeleno flair.

Syncopated Ladies: Live

George Benson

7:30 p.m. Oct. 29. Iconic American guitarist and legendary performer George Benson is coming to the CCA main stage. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the distinct honeyed vocals of this 10-time GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter perform some of his greatest hits, spanning genres, from funk to soul, jazz to R&B, over seven decades of recording.

The Doo Wop Project Holiday Show

7:330 p.m. Dec. 16. The Doo Wop Project boys will get you into the Holiday Spirit! Hear old school holiday classics like The Drifters’ “White Christmas,” The Temptations’ “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,” Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons’ version of “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” along with “Doowopified” contemporary hits like “This Christmas” and “Last Christmas.” It’s sure to be a jolly good time.

Drumline Live

7:30 p.m. Jan. 20 Created by the team behind the hit movie Drumline, the theatre pro-

GRAMMY Award singer Jensen McRae will sing at Chandler Center for the Arts on July 10. (Center for the Arts)

7:30 p.m. Feb. 3 Created by Emmy Award-nominated choreographer and tap star Chloé Arnold, Syncopated Ladies: Live is a ground-breaking all-female tap show that celebrates a sisterhood of beautiful diverse women on stage. These empowered women weave their inspiring personal stories with intricate footwork, feminine prowess, and life-renewing energy.

We Banjo 3

duction features the heart-pounding rhythms of the movie as audiences are taken on a historical journey through jazz, R&B, hip-hop, and African-American dance culture. This versatile group of musicians and dancers brings the explosive energy and athleticism of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities marching band experience.

7:30 p.m. Feb. 4 From Galway, Ireland, the multiaward-winning We Banjo 3 finds common ground between Old World tradition and authentic Americana by playing their banjo, fiddle, guitar, and mandolin in an innovative fusion of styles that they dub “Celtgrass.”

Texas Tenors

3 p.m. Feb. 26 A two-hour Irish dance and music extravaganza that combines traditional step dance with the contemporary. Go on an exciting trip through Celtic history with a band, three tenors and 22 dancers. See why this energetic show is celebrating 21 years, seen by more than 7 million people!

7:30 p.m. Jan. 21 The Texas Tenors has amassed a huge fan base worldwide with their operatic renditions and beautiful harmonizing arrangements of popular songs, thrilling with Broadway tunes, country songs, and hits from Bruno Mars to Puccini. It

Rhythm Of The Dance

Billie And Blue Eyes: Featuring John Pizzarelli And Catherine Russell

3 p.m. March 5 Billie and Blue Eyes pays homage to two great artists - Billie Holliday and Frank Sinatra - performed by two outstanding modern award-winning jazz musicians - Catherine Russell and John Pizzarelli. Performing their favorites from the extensive music catalogue of two legends, experience the bright vibrant voice of Catherine combined with the relaxed smooth guitar and vocals of John. This will be a blue-sky afternoon of jazz served on a silver plate for your pleasure.

Dixie Longate: Cherry Bombs And Bottle Rockets

Enjoy a new stand-up show from Dixie Longate, everyone’s favorite Tupperware Lady! Strap on your big-girl boots, grab your breakfast vodka, and light off a few cherry bombs and bottle rockets for storytelling on everything from Loretta Lynn to alien abductions in a rapid-fire delivery only this southern redhead can create.

Jarabe Mexicano with Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli-AZ

7:30 p.m. April 14, 2023 Take a joyride through a versatile songbook of Mexican folk as well as rock & roll, Tex-Mex, Latin rock, and reggae-cumbia. Accompanied by Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli-AZ, this performance on folk string and percussion instruments along with harmonized vocals will have you on your feet and dancing.

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Sun Lakes has mystery, comedy offerings this month SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Comedy and mystery are coming via two separate groups to Sun Lakes this month. The Sun Lakes Community Theatre will present “Catch Me if You Can” at 7 p.m. April 27-30 with a matinee at 1 p.m. May 1 at the Cottonwood Ballroom. Tickets are $16 and available at slctinfo. com or 480-382-6290. There are plenty of ingredients for a mystery: a chalet in the Catskills, a couple on their honeymoon, a lovers spat and suddenly a mystery unfolds. The bride is missing and that’s just one of the cases the rural detective has to solve. A kindly priest enters the picture with the missing honeymooner, expecting a joyful reunion, but her husband claims he doesn’t recognize her at all. The show was a popular stage-play from the mid-60s and several movies have been made under the same title, but none of them resemble this physiological-thriller/comedy/mystery. This show will keep you guessing right up to the bitter end. The cast includes Rich Paladino, Kate Turner, Mario Carranza, Danny Corbin Michael Carter As Sidney The Local Deli Owner; Dennis Dennehl and Maria Blanding. Meanwhile, The ImproVables comedy improv show is coming to the Cottonwood on April 22. The show will be held in the Saguaro Room and

They have also performed for community groups, senior citizen centers, community colleges, and even on board a cruise ship in 2014. As far as we know, we are the only performing improv troupe composed entirely of senior citizens, so who says old folks don’t have a sense of humor! “Improvisation is a wonderful activity for seniors, especially those who find learning lines a bit more challenging than it used to be. Generally the seniors in our group find the activities to be mentally stimulating and a wonderful way to play and grow with The Sun Lakes Community Theatre is presenting the popular mystery “Catch Me If You Can” later this like-minded seniors,” the group says on its website. month. (Special to SanTan Sun News) “Although our group is less physical than younger tion. The originators of this group were will have a nightclub style atmosphere. performing groups, we begin each pracDoors will open at 5:30 p.m. Dinner will Howard Hummel, Andrea Hummel, and tice with warm-up activities stressing Phyllis Novy, all retired drama teachers, be at 6 p.m. “The show is brand-new mental, vocal and physical exercises. We actors and directors. and laughter is guaranteed,” a spokesare careful to wear comfortable, rubIn 2012, they felt confident enough woman said ber-soled shoes and bring water to stay to perform publicly and began to do The buffet dinner is included in the shows around the Sun Lakes area. Since hydrated. We practice and learn in a $25 ticket price. Seating is limited! The safe, nurturing workshop environment. then, they have performed about six ImproVables’ last show was sold out in We love what we do, we love sharing times a year, including a workshop at five days. Information: slctinfo.com/ and we have become very close. All of the Association for Theater in Higher improvables. us feel that improvisation has enriched Education conference held in ScottsThe Sun Lakes ImproVables began our lives.” dale in 2014. in October 2011 as a class in improvisa-

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

Easter Pageant makes an old tradition brand new BY PAUL MARYNIAK Executive Editor

Jenee Prince has a vague memory of going with her family as a little girl to the Mesa Arizona Temple for its modest Easter morning sunrise service. She has a more distinct recollection of visiting home from college more than 20 years ago and seeing how a humble sunrise service that began in 1938 had been transformed after 1976: It had blossomed into an inspiring reenactment of the life of Jesus Christ with dozens of volunteers dressed in period clothing, their script verbatim passages from the Bible and a moving score accompanying them. Now, the lifelong Mesa resident is the artistic director of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Jesus the Christ Easter Pageant, meticulously conducting the movements of 425 people in the world’s largest annual outdoor production of its kind. After a three-year absence necessitated by an exhaustive restoration of the temple and its grounds, the Easter Pageant returns with a new and bigger stage, some new and top-secret props, upgraded sound and light systems, a revised script based on the King James Version of the Bible, and a score specifically recorded for the show by the London Symphony Orchestra only a few months ago. Astonishingly, it’s free. Church and Mesa Arizona Temple leaders consider the pageant their gift

Jef Rawls, one of four adults cast as Jesus, rehearses a scene on the Mesa Arizona Temple stairs that lead to the main stage. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

to the community to celebrate what spokeswoman Jennifer Wheeler called “Christ’s powerful message of forgiveness, hope and peace.” And pageant leaders and downtown Mesa are braced for crowds for the pageant, which begins nightly at 8 p.m. April 12-16 on the Mesa Arizona Temple’s north lawn, 101 S. LeSueur. Over 9,500 folding chairs have been set up on the grounds. Details on parking and other important information for attendees – including a prohibition on saving more than a couple of seats – are at mesatemple.org. Prince has been artistic director since 2011 after serving as assistant artis-

tic director the previous six years. She defines her role as “taking care of our cast” and “putting things together on the stage creatively.” Even during a media night on Thursday, she fretted over the minutest of each scene’s details, making tweaks here and there to make in her quest to present as accurate a life-like portrayal of the Gospels as possible. How accurate? The cast includes live sheep and donkeys. Two infants in the cast – one a 3-month-old girl – will alternate for the Nativity scene. A printed plastic overlay on the front of each temple step leading to the stage replicates the stonework that existed in Jesus’ time.

A strong core of other pageant leaders have worked with Prince. Steve West as executive director and Matt Riggs as assistant executive director filled the roles of producer, overseeing all the complexities of the mammoth production from construction of the stage to installation of tons’ worth of light towers to security and portable bathrooms – basically, Prince said, “all of the elements of how the project comes together.” Helping Prince are assistant directors Dana Rodgers, Tyler Maxson, Dan Good and Steve Abaroa; hair/make up director Jennifer Anderson; and costume director Kay Walker while Steve and Liz Porter oversee all aspects of the stage, sets and props that West and Riggs set in place months ago. And there are committees working with all those people – part of 400 volunteers who play some off-stage role to ensure a smooth performance every night the cast takes the stage. Prince started her work well before the first rehearsals March 12, overseeing a casting call that began early last fall. Because COVID protocols were still in place, applicants were asked to include a video in which they were asked why they wanted a part. The acting core was selected first and not long after Thanksgiving, the rest of the ensemble was picked. Now they are grouped in what Prince calls See

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“family casts” that are prepared to move onto the stage whenever they’re called during the 74-minute production. The cast comprises seasoned actors and actress, newbies and many people from families with multiple generations having appeared in previous pageants. “We have a Shakespearean actor, a retired theater teacher and people who have been in the pageant before and people who are very, very new to this experience,” Prince said. “Working together and collaborating operating together has been one of my most favorite parts of all of this because it is amazing to know that five different people can have different ideas about how things can come together – and then they just come together.” “They were notified before the end of the year so that they could plan their lives accordingly,” Prince added, “because we really do ask them to block out their schedules from March 12 until April 13. That’s a big ask for people. But it’s just amazing to see the dedication of these incredible people just wanting to share God’s love with thousands of people every night.” As the casting calls went out last year, celebrated Gilbert writer/composer/ conductor Rob Gardner was polishing a revised script and writing a new score. “I’ve never been in it,” Gardner said, “but I remember coming as a kid and sitting and getting our fast food with the family and having a little picnic on the grass. And it was always like kind of a thing to look forward to at Easter – to come down to the grounds and watch the pageant.

Left: Composer/conductor/scriptwriter Rob Gardner of Gilbert takes a moment with pageant artistic Director Jenee Prince during a rehearsal last week. Right: Matt Riggs of Mesa is assistant executive director who, with Executive Director Steve West were virtually the producers of the pageant, supervising the installation of tons of equipment and a new stage. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

“So it’s kind of fun this year to be on the other side of things and see how things work,” added Gardner, who began working on the score and script in July. Then he turned to his long-time contacts with the London Symphony Orchestra. Gardner, Prince and her assistant directors went to London in January to have that score recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra, which Gardner conducted. “It was powerful,” Prince said of the recording session. “I loved every minute of being in London – it was my first time there – but the highlight of the trip was just to be there and to be with those gifted musicians who worked so hard to just project their art. To be in the same room with those people and to watch Rob participate and lead that group of people was amazing for me.” Prince said there was nothing wrong

with the old soundtrack, calling the new score “an update version of a perfect story – the greatest story ever told.” “We wanted to highlight the life of the Savior in other ways,” she continued. “I love the old soundtrack and it still works, still holds true.” But, she added, the new score “is just different,” adding that one big difference is the digital technology that wasn’t even born when the first sound track was recorded 56 years ago. The upgraded sound system, delivers the score so crisply that veteran pageant attendees will be surprised. “It’s best not to stay too close to the speakers during the earthquake,” Riggs said only half-jokingly. It really does seem like an earthquake.” The score, said Prince, is “very, very different.”

“I’m so excited to see and feel and hear and about the life of Jesus Christ in just a different way,” she said. Indeed, Prince said in some ways she felt like she was directing the pageant for the first time because she isn’t working with the same sets – even the same stage – that she had been accustomed to for nearly 20 years. “It was a well-oiled machine,” she said of her previous stints. “As director for the last 10 years or whatever, it was a pretty easy go….Everything was kind of outlined for us. Now we have new characters in new costumes with new props on a new stage. “I mean, the biggest challenge was just having a new pageant. We’ve been working hard to putting this together one scene at a time.” But all that newness has been exhilarating for Prince and the rest of the pageant participants. “It doesn’t feel challenging,” she said. “It feels exciting. It feels like we’re just building step by step, piece by piece, scene by scene and then we start making these beautiful pictures to present to our audience and I am really excited about that.” “It’s just been amazing to see this thing come together so quickly and it is just the efforts of so many people and a really dedicated, wonderful and willing cast,” she continued. “All those people are helping us create this for many years to come. “It’s such an incredible blessing. I don’t know another place in the world where that happens, where you have this many people gathering together just to share a story that they believe in to give hope to the world. It’s very, very unique and we get to do it right here in Mesa.”

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Faith releases us from being hostages of fright RABBI IRWIN WIENER Columnist

Everything seems so mundane given the daily experiences we read about: Death, destruction, hysteria, bravery, patriotism and financial ruin. There seems to be no one who is able to stand up and offer words of consolation and encouragement to a nation, a family, and a person. There is only faith that has been encouraged by the bravery and patriotism of a few. Faith has sustained us in all sorts of ordeals. Faith is the underlying ability to cope with adversity. Faith allows us to understand without asking why. Faith helps us realize that there is good and there is evil. It is up to us to determine which will prevail. “Be of strong heart,” the prophets tell us. Be of strong heart for our own sake and for the sake of all that was needlessly sacrificed. Sometimes we find it difficult to understand everything that is happening so our faith is put to the test. Sometimes we can’t imagine a world so corrupt that our faith is shaken to the core. Sometimes we see death on such a

large scale and hatred seething from the mouths of people we thought to be innocent that our faith is driven into hiding. In our lifetime we have seen the lack of humanity so unimaginable that we shudder to even believe it was possible.

nations of “theTheworld are so

preoccupied with their anxieties and ambitions that they do not realize that the very foundation of civilized life is being undermined.

”

-Mordecai Kaplan The world seems so polarized that we can’t see the light because of all the darkness and somewhere in that darkness is our faith that we fear will never surface. Our lives are so fragile and so short.

I recently began cleaning out old files and old pictures and my life seemed to flash right before me. here has the time gone? What has happened to all the dreams? People are no longer here that once graced our lives. The ranks are thinning and with it all the laughter and tears of the generations. Reality stepped back in and I realized that that was then and this is now. But have things really changed? We are aging but the world seems to be in a standstill because the same threats and hurts and disappointments are there. The only difference is that the date has changed. No wonder we lack the spirit, the spark, and the flame of faith that carried us to this moment in time. Civilization is being undermined by a new order of extinction. Once we faced an enemy and we knew whom they were and how to fight to win. Once we rallied around the concept of survival that included all of humanity. Now we don’t know what is happening to us. We look around and we see greed and despair and killing on such a level that it appears that there really is no hope, no expectation of renewal. And perhaps there are no words other than the silent words found in our hearts

and minds that try to make sense of that which is senseless. We need the words found in our souls to emerge to free us from the fear of the past and give us the resoluteness to confront this evil. And those words, as they emerge, should encourage us to act as one to overcome this madness. No imaginary wish of understanding when there is no one to reason with. No extending of a hand of friendship to be grasped by the clutches of madness. Mordecai Kaplan understood years ago that civilization would be undermined by concern only for the few with no care for the many. He tried to explain that parochialism is not the road to salvation but a sure path to undermining the very principle of endurance. The lesson is so simple it escapes us: If we remain hostages to fright we will, in the end, destroy ourselves. If we lose our resolve to remove the “r” and fight then we will have relinquished our obligation to ourselves and to God who gave us the ability to survive the ordeals of everyday living with a one syllable word: Faith. Rabbi Irwin Wiener D.D. is spiritual leader of the Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation.

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Overcoming Anxiety

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Family Owned & Operated

Now Accepting all major credit cards

Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131

Landscape/Maintenance LANDSCAPING

Painting

CONKLIN PAINTING Free Estimate & Color Consultation

www.miguelslandscapinginc.com

QUICK RESPONSE TO YOUR CALL! 15 Years Experience • Free Estimates

Paint Interior & Exterior • Drywall Repair Cabinet Painting • Light Carpentry Voted Power Washing • Textures Matched Popcorn Removal • Color Consulting Pool Deck Coatings • Garage Floor Coatings

mi.landscapinginc@hotmail.com

PAVERS, WATERFEATURES, FEATURES, PAVERS, WATER FLAGSTONE, TRAVERTINE, FIREPLACE, FIREPLACE, SOD, SYNTHETICGRASS, GRASS, SOD, BBQ, BBQ, SYNTHETIC ROCK IRRIGATION ROCK AND IRRIGATION

Interior Painting ● Pressure Washing Exterior Painting ● Drywall/Stucco Repair Complete Prep Work ● Wallpaper Removal

480-888-5895 ConklinPainting.com

Remodeling License ROC #183369 • Bonded, Insured

Lic/Bond/Ins ROC# 270450

Landscape/Maintenance

Painting

High Quality Results

chandleralliance@gmail.com

Carpet Cleaning

DAVE’S PERFECT TOUCH CARPET/GROUT & TILE CLEANING

— SPECIALS — 3 Areas for $99

up to 150 sq. ft. per area (includes high traffice pre-treatment) CALL FOR APPOINTMENT

7 Areas for $199

up to 150 sq. ft. per area (includes high traffice pre-treatment) Reg. Value $175 - CALL FOR APPOINTMENT

OTHER SERVICES INCLUDE: H Tile & Grout Cleaning H Upholstery Cleaning H Trusted Chandler Resident

David Cole • 480-215-4757

DEPENDABLE AND PROFESSIONAL HANDYMAN SERVICE

With over 20 years of experience I can repair, install or improve just about anything you can imagine. Weekday and weekend appointments available!

Jose Martinez

www.myhandymanmatt.com

Not a licensed contractor.

480-395-3996

Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC #326605

Home Improvement General Contracting, Inc. Licensed • Bonded • Insured • ROC118198

One Call, We Do It All! 602-339-4766

Irrigation

Call Dan

480-516-8920

ARIZONA CACTUS SALES Since 1968

Five Acres of Plants

(480) 963-1061

All Remodeling, Additions, Kitchen, Bath, Patio Covers, Garage, Sheds, Windows, Doors, Drywall & Roofing Repairs, Painting, All Plumbing, Electrical, Concrete, Block, Stucco, Stack Stone, All Flooring, Wood, Tile, Carpet, Welding, Gates, Fences, All Repairs.

Concrete & Masonry

not a licensed contractor

602.515.2767 Landscape Design/ Installation

Owner Does All Work, All Honey-Do Lists

Free Estimates with Pride & Prompt Service!

• Patios • Sidewalks • Driveways • 30 years experience • Free Estimates

Complete Clean Ups

GIVE ME A CALL TODAY AND CONSIDER YOUR TO-DO LIST DONE!

Commercial & Residential • Licensed & Insured • Owner Operator

Concrete Work

TRIM TREES ALL TYPES GRAVEL - PAVERS SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

• Sprinkler/Drip Repairs • New Installs Poly/PVC • Same Day Service ARRANTY 5 -YEAR PART W

480.654.5600 azirrigation.com Cutting Edge LLC • ROC 281671

1619 S. ARIZONA AVE. CHANDLER arizonacactussales.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT & PAINTING Interior/Exterior Painting 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Dunn Edwards Quality Paint Small Stucco/Drywall Repairs

We Are State Licensed and Reliable!

Free Estimates • Senior Discounts

PLUMBING 480-338-4011

ROC#309706

24-HOUR SERVICE Plumbing

480-892-5000 480-726-1600 24 HOUR SERVICE ABC Plumbing SAN TAN PLUMBING 480-726-1600 & DRAIN CLEANING &PLUMBING Rooter ABC & ROOTER 24/7

Best Senior Discount

20% OFF

A+

Since 1968

ROC#153202/213288

Landscape Design/ Installation

Plumbing

JOSE’S LANDSCAPING

Affinity Plumbing LLC 480-487-5541

affinityplumber@gmail.com

Specializing in Artificial • Front Yards Grass

• Synthetic Turf for your Home

• Back Yards • Golfing Greens

Call Today For A Quote

480-690-0081 Not a licensed contractor.

www.affinityplumbingaz.com

Your Ahwatukee Plumber & East Valley Neighbor • Anything Plumbing • Water Heaters • Inside & Out Leaks • Toilets, Faucets, Disposals • Same Day Service • Available 24/7 • Bonded & Insured • Estimates Available

35 OFF

$ Any Service

Not a licensed contractor

A group of local business representatives and owners committed to development of local businesses in the Greater Chandler Area. Providing a forum for local businesses to promote themselves. We also work with and promote several non-profit organizations. Each member is required to assist or fund a non-profit organization as a show of support to our community.

DIRECTORY

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

MetroPhoenixClassifieds com To Advertise Call: 480-898-6465 or email Class@TimesPublications.com Plumbing

Glass/Mirror

Roofing Over 30 Years of Experience

Family Operated by 3 Generations of Roofers! Premier Tile, Shingle & Foam Roofer!

PLUMBING

480-704-5422 REPAIR or INSTALL Water Heaters • Faucets • Sinks Toilets • Disposals • Rooter Services Licensed • Bonded $ Insured

35 Off

Service Call

ROC #272721

Spencer 4 HIRE ROOFING 480-446-7663 FREE Estimates • Credit Cards OK www.spencer4hirerooﬁng.com ROC#244850 | Insured | Bonded

Roofing

Work Completed!

EMERGENCY SERVICE www.abcplumbingandrooter.com Lic. ROC153202/213278, Bonded & Insured *CALL OFFICE FOR DETAILS

Serving All Types Clean, Prompt, Friendly and Professional Service of Roofing: • • • •

FREE ESTIMATES

Tiles & Shingles sunlandroofingllc@gmail.com Installation Repair Re-Roofing

602-471-2346 SEWER AND DRAIN

CURE ALL PLUMBING FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

Full Service Plumbing No Job Too Small!

H Drain & Sewer Cleaning H Water Heaters H Faucets H Fixtures H Electronic Leak Locating H Slab Leaks

Plumbing

Sewer/Drain/Septic

Plumbing

H Repiping H Sewer Video & Locating H Backflow Testing & Repair H Sprinkler Systems & Repairs H Water Treatment Sales & Service

480-895-9838

ABC Plumbing & Rooter

480-726-1600 FREE

Hotwater Heater Flush Licensed/Bonded/Insured

48 YEARS In Business Since 1968 ROC#153202/213278

ROC #204797

% Financing 0% Financing Fast* 020% Fast* 20% *Call for details. Senior *Call for details. Senior Discount! Discount!

Pool/Spa Services

Window Cleaning

✔ Free Estimates ✔ Senior Discounts! RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

A Friend In Me

A FRIEND IN ME HANDYMAN

Call Greg 480-510-2664 AFriendInMeHandyman@gmail.com

5000 OFF

SINCE 1968

Handyman

Not a licensed contractor.

480-726-1600

ABC PLUMBING & ROOTER

Family Owned with 50 years' EXPERIENCE. Shower and tub enclosures, Framed, Frameless or Custom Doors, We also install insulated glass, mirrored closet doors, window glass, mirrors, patio doors, glass table protectors. If it’s glass, we can help you. QUALITY SERVICE at Competitive Prices. FREE Estimates

Honey-Do List Electrical, Plumbing, Drywall, Painting & Home Renovations.

1 HOUR RESPONSE $

IN OR OUT MOVERS

GLASS, MIRRORS, SHOWER DOORS

WESLEY'S GLASS & MIRROR Call 480-306-5113 wesleysglass.com SERVICING THE ENTIRE VALLEY

Valley Wide Service

Plumbing

Moving

abcplumbingandrooter.com ROC 153202 Where Integrity Isn’t Watered Down. Since 1968 - 480-726-1600 1 hour response Emergency Response 24/7 A rated BBB *Free flush of water heater *Best senior discount: 20% off labor *$50.00 off with work done mention this ad Flood restoration, Water heaters, drain clogs, faucets, toilets, slab leaks, leak locating, & water main.

Professional, hardworking, excellent service. No hidden fees. Whether you are moving in or moving out LEAVE THE LIFTING TO US! Serving the East Valley. www.inoroutmovers phoenixmetro.com Call Terry at 602-653-5367

HIRING?

If someone Needs a Job, They Look Every Day! For a Quote email: class@times publications.com

480-898-6465

Stuff for Sale? Your Neighbors are ready to buy! Place your Ad today!

480-898-6465

FIND YOUR PASSION

Serving the East Valley Professional service since 1995

Tile cleaning, acid wash and pressure washing

480.510.2664

130 - One Story 170 - Two Story

$ Bonded & Insured

Includes in & out up to 30 Panes

SUN SCREENS CLEANED $3 EACH Before

After

Roofing

480-699-2754 • info@monsoonroofinginc.com

10% Discount for Ahwatukee Residents 100% NO Leak Guarantee Re-Roof & Roofing Repairs Tile, Shingles & Flat Roof

MonsoonRooﬁngInc.com Licensed – Bonded – Insured – ROC187561

480-584-1643

Attention to detail and tidy in your home.

Oooh, MORE ads online! Check Our Online Classifieds Too!

SanTanSun.com

Ahwatukee Chandler Gilbert Glendale Mesa North Valley Ocotillo Peoria Phoenix Scottsdale Tempe West Valley

MetroPhoenix

JOBS

To Advertise Call: 480-898-6465 or email Class@TimesPublications.com

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

home&office

Whether working from home or if you’re back in the office,at Copenhagen you’ll find a great collection of practical desks and computer furniture, storage solutions as well as comfortable, ergonomic styled task and executive chairs. Come see our broad selection of home and office furniture in a wide array of styles Simple and and prices. Let our sales practical, our Air desk/credenza associates assist you combination offers ample work and in creating the perfect storage area in a space saving design. work environment. Easy care walnut look laminate with black accents. 71”x63”x 29”h

The Lunada series of desks and storage units is a modular system, so it’s suitable for nearly any space. Available in espresso, grey or white with metal accents.

819

Also available in a light grey wood look.

The Tulsa executive chair features modern style and quality components. Polished base, leather seat and back in black, bisque (shown) or grey.

599

625 32” Return $ 185 3 Drawer $ 385 Pedestal 63” desk

Shown with the Run II task chair.

625

Wing chair from Italy.

The Sutton executive desk has a cool rounded top and built-in storage. Finished in a natural looking grey wood laminate for easy care and featuring polished steel and black legs. 79”x 63”x29.5” h Shown with the CEO task chair in black.

1345 $ 575

since

contemporary furniture & accessories

Our new Adrian desk looks great and works even better. Finished in warm natural walnut with polished steel legs. 63”x 27”x 29.5” h

great prices great design

395

799

OurVili series consists of several different styles of desks, returns and storage units for a customizable solution and is available in a durable grey or walnut wood look laminates. 63” desk with modesty panel as shown.

445

2 Drawer Pedestal

299

Shown with our 4U, commercial quality task chair by Via.

(as shown)

746

PHOENIX 1701 E. Camelback 602-266-8060 SCOTTSDALE 15804 N. Scottsdale Rd. (South of Bell) 480-367-6401 GILBERT 2000 S. Santan Village Pkwy. 480-838-3080 HOURS: PHOENIX Mon-Sat: 9am-6pm, Sundays: Noon-5pm SCOTTSDALE & GILBERT Mon-Fri: 10am-7pm, Saturdays: 10am-6pm, Sundays: Noon-5pm

www.copenhagenliving.com

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | APRIL 10, 2022

LIST - SELL - SAVE $$$ Why pay more than you have to for the same thing? Helping Sellers Save Thousands! Call Today! SOLD AND SAVED’S SELLER SAVED $13,650

37305 N El Morro Trail • San Tan Valley AZ 85140

Help-U-Sell Real Estate ﬂat fee as low as $3,950

Ordinary Realtor charging an average of 6-7%

• Full Service Realty • Member of the MLS, AAR & NAR • Advertises in MLS, Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com and up to 750 additional websites

• Full Service Realty • Member of the MLS, AAR & NAR • Advertises in MLS, Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, etc.

Local Chandler Business Since 2004

SELLER SAVED $11,150

2741 S Pleasant Place • Chandler AZ 85286

Help-U-Sell® Central Properties 3377 S Price Rd #3075 Chandler, AZ 85248

(480) 812-1112

www.centralproperties.helpusell.com

Full service. Save thousands. The experts next door.

Service and fees may very with individual offices. Commissions are negotiable and not set by law. Each office is independently owned and operated. If your property is listed, this is not a solicitation for your listing. *Savings based on 6% Broker’s fee comparison. Set fee may vary on condominiums, luxury homes, land or commercial property. ©2017 lnfinium Realty Group Inc. DBA Help U Sell Real Estate. BRE #01425143

Customized Quotes, Great Rates, & Service with Integrity Andrew McCrossen Loan Officer

Lund Mortgage Team, Inc 602-499-1044 3185 S. Price Rd. #148 Chandler, AZ 85248 lundmortgage.com

Co NMLS #162701 • NMLS #217992

Your Title & Escrow Partner Clearing the way for your American Dream

Maria Shelley Senior Escrow Officer 4677 S Lakeshore Drive Suite C9 Tempe AZ 85282 Phone: 480.897.8522 Email: mshelley@ltic.com www.lawyerstitlearizona.com

Member of a Fortune 500 Company