Glendale Star 05/11/2023

Loop 202 becoming a big job generator

BY PAUL MARYNIAK Glendale Star Staff Writer

Scorned for its impact on Ahwatukee’s quality of life and the object of a bitter legal fight that lasted for years, the South Mountain Loop 202 Freeway is fulfilling its supporters’ expectations of becoming a critical cog to the Valley’s economy, city officials recently told a Phoenix City Council subcommittee.

And that’s especially true for the West Valley, where city officials said an estimated 60% of its workforce commute to other parts of the county, and for Phoenix, which they said is quickly emerging as an important hi-

tech corridor generating high-paying jobs.

But that corridor still needed help from the city.

Council preliminarily approved $10 million in tax breaks over the next 10 years to a Washington State developer for agreeing to privately finance massive road and other infrastructure work around the last 180 acres of residential land in the area of the freeway and Dobbins Road.

For years, Ahwatukee residents and the Gila River Indian Community fought to prevent construction of the $1.7 billion, 22-mile freeway linking the Loop 202 Santan Freeway in Chandler and 59th Avenue in the

West Valley.

They alleged the freeway posed potentially harmful environmental threats and that it was damaging sacred tribal land.

But federal courts rejected every claim.

Chris Mackay, community and economic development director, said that since the freeway opened in December 2019, it has become “our newest employment corridor — the South Mountain technology corridor.”

“Since that time, we’ve seen thousands of single-family and multifamily units that have broken ground,” she told council’s

Economic development director retires after 30 years

BY JORDAN ROGERS Glendale Star Managing Editor

Brian Friedman has spent the last 30 years of his life leading the efforts in development and created the brand that is Glendale Economic Development.

Key developments during Friedman’s time such as State Farm Stadium, Desert Diamond Arena and Westgate Entertainment District started the transformation, which today has created one of the largest sports and entertainment districts in the country.

Friedman, who will step down from his post in August, got his start in the city at a pivotal time when he was charged with overseeing all entitlement, planning and project management activities for the region.

“It’s interesting to see Glendale over all of these decades and to have been the project

manager out in the in the field in 2008 in charge of (Desert Diamond Arena’s) original construction along with the Westgate,” Friedman said. “All of the infrastructure, the planning, the entitlement process, the construction build process, and now getting a chance to fill all of the buildings up with their end users and see the condition of the third Super Bowl having been successfully completed.

“And look at the sheer number of hotels that are out there and what’s under construction now with VAI — around $1 billion just in that project and another half billion in the region underway. It really is incredible.”

Once seen as a bedroom community and home to Luke Air Force Base, Glendale, in the early 2000s, began its transformation SEE

After 30 years of service, Glendale Economic Development Director Brian Friedman will retire in August. (City of

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Do you want to discuss the vaccines in more detail with one of our health educators?

Each school year, GESD Superintendent Cindy Segotta-Jones convenes three advisory councils to share feedback and discuss topics impacting their school communities. They work collaboratively to share ideas and recommendations to improve educational experiences in GESD.

Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (STAC)

Superintendent’s Parent Advisory Council (SPAC)

Superintendent’s Advisory Council (SAC)

Representatives also have the opportunity to participate alongside Superintendent Segotta-Jones to engage with the community through special events such as the Glendale Hometown Holiday Parade and other outreach activities.

Phoenix officials say the city’s newest employment corridor along the entire 22-mile stretch of the South Mountain Loop 202 Freeway will generate tens of thousands of highpaying jobs that will be especially attractive to the West Valley workforce. (City of Phoenix/Submitted)

Economic Development and Equity Subcommittee on April 26. “There’s been thousands of square feet of retail and commercial that has also been announced and is under construction. And at full build-out in this quarter, we expect 50,000 to 80,000 jobs.”

She added, “We studied the workforce migration and we found that 60% of the West Valley workforce travels to other parts of the region for their jobs, making this an ideal location for a company to come in and be close to the workforce.”

“We’re talking about high-wage jobs and advanced manufacturing and technology, corporate campuses and business parks similar to the Cotton Center, the semiconductor industry and their supply chain,” Mackay continued.

She noted that it is “ideally located between” the expanded Intel campus in Chandler and the equally huge Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company facility in North Phoenix.

“We’ve pitched this area to multiple companies including EV, solar and battery companies,” she said. “We’ve worked to promote this to our existing businesses that are looking to expand.

“We’ve been around the world promoting this to site-selection consultants at industry shows and conventions as well as at our local brokerage broker in town.”

The preliminary approval of $10 million in tax breaks for IDM Companies involves its plans to build speculative industrial buildings on farmland that had been in the same family for 70 years, according to city documents.

Noting a Texas company, Capital Group, is developing 25 acres in that area, MacKay said, “All these are the last pieces of residential and we will have a full-fledged technology corridor.”

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IDM is constructing speculative industrial buildings, meaning the shell will be built and then tailored to specific needs of tenants who sign leases for it.

The council report noted that IDM has developed several projects that include one south of State Farm Stadium.

Noting the area had been farmland, the city report said tax breaks were part of the deal “due to the extreme cost of public infrastructure in comparison to other parts of the city.”

Vitalant hosts blood drives throughout May

BY GLENDALE STAR STAFF

As Mother’s Day approaches, nonprofit blood services provider Vitalant is urging all eligible donors to give blood this May.

Every two seconds a patient needs blood, including 1 in every 83 baby deliveries. In addition, May is Trauma Awareness Month.

More donors are needed to ensure

Blood Drives

Glendale

7

Banner Thunderbird Medical Center, Conference Room No. 5 5555 W. Thunderbird Road, Glendale

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, May 11

Credit Union West, 5811 W. Talavi Boulevard, Bloodmobile

8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, May 14

Faith Bible Church, Bloodmobile

17320 N. 59th Avenue, Glendale

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday,

May 17

Barron Lighting Group, Conference Room

7885 N. Glen Harbor Boulevard, Glendale

8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, May 18

City of Glendale at Murphy Park, Bloodmobile

5850 W. Glendale Avenue, Glendale

7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, May 20

Monona Blood Drive, Bloodmobile

5722 W. Monona Drive, Glendale

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 20

Mountain Ridge Church, Kids Center

hospitals have enough blood ready to treat patients for all unpredictable emergencies, as well as scheduled treatments and elective surgeries.

The need is critical for donations of all blood types, especially Type O, because O-positive is the most common type. O-negative blood can help any patient, including premature babies. Platelets most often help patients who are bat-

tling cancer.

As a special thank-you, those who give blood with Vitalant through Monday, May 15, can receive up to $20 in Amazon gift cards.

In addition, all donors in May are automatically entered into the Vacay Give-

away to win one of three $5,000 prepaid gift cards. All promotions and giveaways are redeemable by email.

To make a blood donation appointment, download the Vitalant app, visit vitalant.org or call 1-877-25-VITAL (1877-258-4825).

23104 N. 67th Avenue, Glendale

11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 27

Arrowhead Towne Center, Community Room

7700 W. Arrowhead Towne Center, Glendale

Peoria

8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, May 7 St. Charles Borromeo, Church Hall

8615 W. Peoria Avenue, Peoria

Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 13

Culver’s Peoria, Bloodmobile

8271 W. Ludlow Drive, Peoria

2 to 6 p.m. Mon, May 15

Sunrise Mountain High School, Bloodmobile

21200 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria

3:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 24

Cantina Gueros, Bloodmobile

25315 N. Lake Pleasant Parkway, Peoria

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, May 26

Trilogy at Vistancia, Bloodmobile

27980 N. Trilogy Boulevard E, Peoria

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 31

Evernorth Care Group - Sun City, 9069 W. Thunderbird Road, Bloodmobile

Vitalant is hosting blood drives throughou the month of May, and those who donate blood can receive Amazon gift cards. (Vitalant/Submitted)

to emerge as a center of major development activity in the Valley which now includes luxury auto dealerships, a casino, numerous experiential retail attractions, thousands of hotel rooms, including the state’s largest resort under construction, multiple global corporations and a manufacturing hub along the Loop 303.

Friedman said he has been very fortunate to have been part of all of the city’s rapid development.

“Glendale has been incredibly giving to me and gracious to me the opportunities they’ve provided me,” he said. “I’m thankful for my very long tenure to have experienced the timing of Glendale really moving from, with the council and leadership, wanting Glendale not just to be a bedroom community and home to Luke Air Force Base, which are two great things, but to also be an entertainment mecca and a full-service job employment center. … What has happened at least financially for the city of Glendale at one time and ongoing revenues is absolutely incredible.”

Despite having played an integral role in Glendale’s boom, Friedman remains

“The culture that Glendale has built, the way we treat people and customers and how real this is, for me is the same realness it is for everyone that’s here.”

– Brian Friedman, Glendale Economic Development Director

humble. He said he is thankful for the “trust and confidence” he received from city leadership throughout his time.

“There is absolutely no way that this talented team could do anything without city council and the city managers,” he said. “And frankly, the other 17 or so department heads all agree that we’re all going to help one tiny department. We’re going to allow you to lead that we’re going to put all our trust and confidence in you, and we’re going to see what happens. I promise you that the council, the

Glendale opens heat relief centers

BY GLENDALE STAR STAFF

With summer soon to be in full swing and temperatures forecasted to hit triple digits, the city of Glendale opened 10 heat relief sites around the city.

For the 16th consecutive year, Glendale partnered with the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) to support the Heat Relief Network.

MAG consists of Valley municipalities, nonprofit organizations, faith-based communities and area businesses that assist those in our vulnerable populations. These include older adults, economically challenged residents, individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness, as well as individuals with disabilities.

city of Glendale. “It also encourages us to work together collaboratively to protect our community.”

The city of Glendale also offers several additional excessive heat-related programs, which include a Glendale emergency home repair program and utility assistance. Utility assistance is offered through the CAP office for qualifying residents.

There is also an Emergency Heat Relief Station at the Salvation Army Glendale Corps, located at 6010 W. Northern Avenue. Hydration stations, cooling stations and water donation sites throughout the county can be found on the interactive heat relief map at provided by MAG at hrn.azmag.gov/#/map.

Last summer alone, over 13,000 bottles of water were distributed at the Glendale locations. The Heat Relief Network lasts through Saturday, Sept. 30.

“This network brings awareness to the dangers of heat exhaustion and heat stroke that we face here in the Valley of the Sun,” said Michelle Yates, community engagement program manager for the

The emergency home repair program helps low- to moderate-income households in need of repairs such as an A/C unit or evaporative cooler repair. The city partners with Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona to offer this program.

“The city of Glendale’s motto is to improve the lives of the people we serve every day,” Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers said. “This program assists those who are homeless, homebound, or anyone in need of water or a cool place to escape the summer heat. This is another way we live that motto.”

Glendale Heat Relief Center locations

city manager and the department heads in the city of Glendale completely and totally supported this small office, and they absolutely provided the opportunity for us to excel.”

Friedman’s work has been well recognized by city officials. As much as he has appreciated them, they have appreciated him, too.

“My 10-plus years as mayor working with Brian’s department have been an eye-opening experience,” Mayor Jerry Weiers said. “He has a depth of knowledge and the ability to earn the trust of all types of people. His experience putting together a top-notch department has helped shape our Economic Development Department as a small but mighty team that is frequently envied. I’m proud to have worked with him and wish him the best in his retirement.”

“Brian’s business acumen and list of accomplishments are noteworthy — it has been my pleasure to work alongside him as my direct report over the past seven years,” City Manager Kevin Phelps added. “Brian is highly capable and likable. He has built strong relationships

with the business community, city staff and the public in a way that inspires trust and confidence. The impact of his efforts and achievements will be seen for years to come.”

For Friedman, despite his departure, he said Glendale’s economic development will not slow down and, if anything will have the opportunity to move even further forward.

“The culture that Glendale has built, the way we treat people and customers and how real this is, for me is the same realness it is for everyone that’s here. … Just because I won’t be here full time anymore doesn’t mean that Glendale’s Office of Economic Development will skip a beat. In fact, I think it’s accelerating.

“The reputation of this office will only improve. I did my best during my tenure to create all of the opportunities that were there, and I was heavily supported, and everyone here has that opportunity to carry forward that inertia with the same support. I’m just ecstatic for my teammates here and the city and citizens. I’m just so happy for their collective futures. They’re very bright.”

It also said the deal was “an effort to help world-class employers along the Loop 202,” because IDM “will privately finance and construct the public infrastructure” and then be reimbursed with revenue from privilege taxes assessed on the site, such as builder and commercial lease taxes and construction sales taxes.

“The project is vital to activate the Loop 202 South Mountain Technology Corridor,” the report said. “Multiple high-wage employers have short-listed this site for their new location. Phoenix has reached a critical point in the real estate market that makes this investment a possibility, and will bring significant in-

vestment in the employment projects in the corridor.

“The redevelopment of the site is an important economic development opportunity that will transform the community and yield significant financial and public benefits for the City above and beyond the tax revenues.”

MacKay said the developers “worked closely” with area residents on what sorts of uses they would prefer from the project.

The infrastructure work includes utility lines as well as widening of Dobbins and Olney roads, intersection work at 63rd and Dobbins, and a roundabout on Elliot Road.

Requiem for a shameless TV showboat

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Glendale Star Columnist

Jerry Springer passed away last week from pancreatic cancer at age 79. His publicist put out a very nice statement to People Magazine about the late attorney, politician and talk show host.

It read in part:

“Jerry’s ability to connect with people was at the heart of his success in everything he tried whether that was politics, broadcasting or just joking with people on the street who wanted a photo or a word. He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humor will live on.” at’s certainly one way of looking at it.

en there’s my way: that the 3,800plus episodes of “ e Jerry Springer Show” that aired nationwide between 1991 and 2018 represent the very worst aspects of our culture, from the appalling lack of shame we have come to expect from people who express pride in

their ignorance to the tawdry embrace of all things over the top.

It’s not a tremendous leap, really, from “I Married A Horse,” Springer’s infamous 2004 episode about Mark from Montana and his equine bride, Pixel, to “I won that election, but got robbed by fraud,” or, “Hey, let’s raid the U.S. Capitol and overthrow the government.”

Fittingly, Springer began his career in politics, back in Cincinnati in the early 1970s. Elected to city council in 1971, he resigned three years amid scandal: He was found to have paid a hooker with a check.

No matter, Springer got reelected a year later by leaning into the scandal.

“A lot of you don’t know anything about me,” the Cincinnati Enquirer, his hometown paper, reported him saying in a speech. “But I’ll tell you one thing you do know. My credit is good.”

Springer won election as mayor of Cincinnati in 1977, then lost a run for

governor of Ohio a few years later.

Defeated, he transitioned to the media world, working as a TV pundit and a news anchor. His talk show, a dud when it embraced serious news, took o when he leaned into the freakish — the crazier the better.

He had Klansmen as guests, neo-Nazis, incestuous idiots married to blood kin, and the gal who wed her boyfriend’s dad but now wanted the son back.

By the turn of the millennium, Springer was averaging eight million viewers an episode.

Which shows you something: To a point, crazy sells. Springer drew millions of eyeballs in a nation that at the time had a population of about 290 million.

at means 97% of the country intelligently avoided his garbage. But in America, if you can capture the ignorant 3%, you can die like Jerry Springer did — fabulously wealthy, a cultural icon, surrounded by sycophants who put out owery statements about your death, like this one from NBC Universal, which made bajillions o Springer.

“Jerry Springer was much more than a talk show host who rede ned television,” the network said. “He was a savvy politician, pop cultural icon, and devout and loyal friend who was most proud when he spoke up for the marginalized and unrepresented.”

at surely beats a press release that would have been more honest: Jerry Springer helped ruin television, giving voice to the vile and obscene and profiting handsomely o the misery of the poor, the sick and the depraved.

Like a smiling bystander at a drive-by shooting, Springer egged on the combatants, no matter who got hurt — so long as he got ratings.

Here’s a nal thought, stolen verbatim from the signature line Springer used to close every one of his vile shows. “Till next time, take care of yourselves and each other.”

Yes, please. Do as the man said, not as he did.

David Leibowitz has called the Valley home since 1995. Contact david@leibowitzsolo.com.

Bible-hiding lawmaker should be punished

BY J.D. HAYWORTH

Glendale Star Columnist

If novelist Erle Stanley Gardner still dwelt among us, he might have entitled this infamous and idiotic incident “ e Case of the Kleptomaniac Cleric.”

Or perhaps he would have named this shameful saga “ e Case of the Purloining Politician.”

But the culprit involved would no doubt insist that it should be called “ e Case of the Playful Presbyterian.”

“Perry Mason,” it ain’t. Instead, it is another real-life escapade from the Arizona Legislature.

Rep. Stephanie Stahl Hamilton

(D-Tucson) took it upon herself — on no less than three occasions — to take two copies of the Bible, long available to legislators in the Members Lounge, and hide them from her colleagues.

Adding to the irony and the infamy of this story is the fact that Rep. Stahl Hamilton is an ordained Presbyterian minister, who received her Masters of Divinity degree from Princeton eological Seminary.

You just can’t make this stu up … and yet, stories like this seem to emanate from 1700 W. Washington Street in

Phoenix with predictable regularity.

It is not an institutional failing.

Instead, as the Good Book itself explains, it is both individual and universal.

Beyond the Holy Writ itself, there is nothing sacred about this bizarre tale. Yet it does a rm this basic truth found in Scripture — speci cally, from the Apostle Paul’s inspired letter to fellow believers in Rome: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

But Paul’s accurate assessment of the “human condition” — and God’s eternal gift of Grace for those who believe — do not excuse Stahl Hamilton from earthly consequences.

And as this column is being written, those consequences apparently remain undetermined.

Stahl Hamilton’s role in “Biblegate” is undisputed. A video from a hidden camera caught her in the act of hiding Holy Scripture — not hiding those words in her heart, as the Psalmist commands.

Moreover, she chose to ee from a Phoenix TV reporter when he obtained the video and confronted her about her conduct.

Only later did she o er a lame rationalization to the reporter. “Just a playful commentary on the separation of

Simple tips to prepare your A/C for the heat

BY AUDREY MONELL

Forrest Anderson Plumbing and Air Conditioning President

It’s getting hot again, and intense heat is no stranger to Arizonans. Soon, temperatures will regularly reach the 100-degree mark, so it’s becoming increasingly more important for homeowners to ensure their HVAC units are prepared. Without a functional or e cient air-conditioning (A/C) unit, a homeowner can quickly nd themselves in a miserable setting all summer long.

homes are hit by changes from weather and other external in uences. is can cause small leaks that result in big problems. e best way to check for any leaks is to inspect the home’s insulation and airow. If air ow through the A/C duct isn’t clear, then the unit’s efciency could drop 40% — costing the owner more money while not properly cooling the home.

Switch to a peak plan

Without a functional air-conditioning unit, heat can build up inside a home and reach temperatures well over 110 degrees. Meanwhile, the use of an inecient air conditioner can cause the unit to overwork, which leads to a higher risk of the system breaking down. Either way, having an A/C unit that isn’t functional or e cient will cost the homeowner a signi cant amount of money.

To help make sure A/C units are properly prepared for intense heat and frequent use, homeowners can take a few simple steps to help ensure they stay cool all summer long.

Check insulation and airflow roughout the lifespan of an A/C,

Both APS and SRP o er peak plans to better manage electricity bills. Switching to a peak plan can help homeowners lower costs on their bills by taking advantage of nonpeak hours. Simply run the home’s A/C unit during nonpeak hours so the house will stay at a comfortable temperature throughout the day.

Install a programmable thermostat

e best way to ensure an A/C stays on the peak plan is to install a programmable thermostat. ese smart thermostats can help homeowners save money and stay cool by running the unit as ef-

Spring has sprung — and enjoy it

BY JUDY BLUHM

Glendale Star Columnist

Look around. Spring has arrived! Poets call it the most romantic time of year, when tree blossoms, mild breezes and songbirds stir up positive emotions.

We might want to take time out of our hectic schedules to appreciate the essence of these beautiful spring days. Flowers (and weeds) are pushing up stubbornly through the soil, as if to say, “Hello, it’s me again.” Spring is testimony that joy can be found by just looking out your window.

original party animals, used to have one huge (and wild) festival that lasted about ve days in early spring to honor Flora, the goddess of owers. Evidently, those Romans did a whole lot of honoring and (oops, I’d say it, but this is a family newspaper) other shenanigans, causing birthrates to climb nine months later.

But it’s not all about eating, drinking, dancing, singing, parading and kissing that’s going on this time of year. ere is something else, far more sinister. Have you ever heard of “Spring Cleaning”? Not to be confused with its fun cousin, “Spring Break.”

For many of us, springtime is the beginning of the annual ritual of housecleaning. A traditional custom in America and Europe, this is the season to organize the closets, wash the windows, beat the rugs, sort out the cupboards, wash everything and then put it all back. Bedspreads are changed out. Dark-colored throws and pillows are packed away. Turn the house inside out! Yikes, it’s exhausting just thinking about it.

cles that are coming after you! Kachooo! (Excuse me while I nd a Kleenex.)

Perhaps we should forget about “cleaning and wheezing” and focus on the true meaning of spring. It is not just a season; it might be the reason why we have faith, hope and enthusiasm! It is the promise that rebirth is possible, in nature and in ourselves. It is the visual display of barren trees bursting forth with buds and leaves, after surviving the bleakness of winter. Spring shouts out that “life nds a way,” dear readers, enjoy all that spring has to o er. It is the perfect time to turn over a new leaf.

Judy Bluhm is a writer and a local Realtor. Have a comment or a story? Email her at judy@judybluhm.com.

is is the time of grand celebrations — proms, graduations, parties, festivals, parades and feasts happening in every corner of the world! e Romans, those

e Spring Festival in China, marking the Chinese Lunar Near Year, is over 2,000 years old. People place red paper with black lettering over their doorways, telling the evil spirits to stay away, while they have parades and lavish parties. Feasts, music and dance are also part of the spectacle of springtime “happenings” around the globe.

Celebrate our resort-style service and amenities for only one monthly price with no buy-in fees or long-term lease. With everything taken care of by our professional staff,

Another downside to the glory of spring is the billions of pollen oating around, like a thick yellow haze, ready to make us sneeze and wheeze. Heads feeling like they’re stu ed with cotton candy, noses running, eyes reddened, throats burning. Hey, it’s not always easy living with Mother Nature. If you are outside and see a cloud of yellow coming your way, run for your life! It is not daffodil petals, but tiny little dust-like parti-

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E-mail: jrogers@ timeslocalmedia.com

The Glendale Star welcomes letters that express readers’ opinion on current topics. Letters must include the writer’s full name, address (including city) and telephone number.

The Glendale Star will print the writer’s name and city of residence only. Letters without the requisite identifying information will not be published. Letters are published in the order received, and they are subject to editing. The Glendale Star will not publish consumer complaints, form letters, clippings from other publications or poetry. Letters’ authors, not the Glendale Star, are responsible for the “facts” presented in letters.

church and state.”

Playful? Please. Inaccurate? Indubitably. Mistaken? Most assuredly.

As noted before in this space, the phrase “separation of church and state” appears nowhere in the Constitution.

It rst appeared in a letter from President omas Je erson to the Danbury (Connecticut) Baptists. Je erson employed it to describe a wall protecting religion from the state.

Only later did leftists twist it into the dubious interpretation that it somehow “protects” the state from religion.

But that was Stahl Hamilton’s story and she was sticking to it.

When she took to the House oor to make her apology, it included this inane utterance: “I acknowledge that a conversation about church and state should have began (sic) with a conversation. And for that, I apologize.”

After all, in her complaint, Stahl Hamilton claimed that Harris had made Arizona a “national joke.”

Et tu, Stephanie?

Recall that former Harris was expelled for her invitation to a committee witness who made scandalous claims about the Democrats who now occupy Arizona’s highest o ces … and also about the Republican House Speaker.

e witness made those comments, not Harris. Yet Harris was held personally accountable and thrown out of the House.

Why should Stahl Hamilton, who is directly responsible for this latest episode attracting the “national spotlight of shame” upon the Arizona Legislature, escape the same fate?

at would bring a tting conclusion to “ e Case of the Irreverent Reverend.”

Perhaps in view of her own conduct, she should also apologize for ling an ethics complaint against ex-state Rep. Liz Harris (R-Chandler).

J.D. Hayworth worked as a sportscaster at Channel 10, Phoenix, from 1987 until 1994 and represented Arizona in Congress from 1995-2007.

ficiently as possible in nonpeak hours. Make sure to double-check when the electricity company’s peak and nonpeak hours are as they change throughout the year.

Replace filters and clean the unit

Dirty filters make an A/C unit work harder and can reduce the efficiency of the system. A/C filters should be replaced every month or so to help keep the home’s HVAC unit running at the top of its game. This also helps keep the air in the home clean and works to prevent sore throats!

Schedule A/C maintenance

Forrest Anderson technicians find that most HVAC units can last longer and avoid larger problems with regular maintenance. Proper HVAC maintenance should be scheduled at least twice

a year to help keep the unit’s heating and cooling systems working properly. It’s not too late to schedule a routine maintenance check and get someone to inspect the home’s HVAC unit.

In Phoenix, having a functioning and efficient HVAC unit is a necessity that Arizonans can’t live without. When an HVAC unit is working properly, homeowners can live comfortably all summer long without inflated electricity bills. Every Arizona homeowner can take these simple steps to help make sure their HVAC units are well prepared for the upcoming heat.

Audrey Monell is the president of Forrest Anderson Plumbing and Air Conditioning. Since taking over the family business in 2008, Monell has played an instrumental role in helping her family’s 60-year-old business embrace new ideas that would reach record-breaking revenues and improved business performance — all while keeping her grandfather’s original values at the core of the company.

Glendale Flowers bloomed by mother-daughter duo

BY LAURA LATZKO Glendale Star Staff Writer

Downtown Glendale is lled with mothers and daughters who work together.

At Glendale Flowers, owner Sue Garner works closely with her daughter Danea Mensi, who started working at the store when she was 17 after her mother bought the shop in 2015.

“She wanted to help me out,” Garner said. “She started just from the ground up, cleaning buckets, helping the designers, delivering and cleaning the owers.”

Mensi, who is now 24, will likely take over the shop when her mom retires.

Garner has worked in the ower business for more than 40 years, starting

when she was 20 years old. Her other daughters, her sister and nephews also help out at the shop during busy times of the year, such as Mother’s Day.

Mensi, however, has taken the greatest interest in the shop and went through classes to become a certi ed Master Florist.

“She de nitely wants to make this her career,” Garner said. “We work very well together. Of course, we’ve had our moments. … She has the passion for owers. She loves to create, and she’s very creative.”

Since owning the shop, Garner has expanded on what it o ers, bringing in more gift items. e store sells candy, cards, candles, lotions and other items made by local artisans and shops.

Mensi has helped to incorporate crystals into the shop, especially in its ower arrangements.

For years, Garner and her daughters had been going to Downtown Glendale for events such as Glendale Glitters.

ese experiences made her want to buy Glendale Flowers, which has been in business since 1939.

“Me and the girls — I have four girls — we would go and peek through the windows at night,” Garner said. “I was always intrigued by that. I was working for a ower shop in Phoenix, and I was looking to purchase a ower shop. I saw that Glendale Flowers was for sale. I quit my job. … Being a single mom raising four kids, it was a step in a dangerous area, but I really wanted to work in this ower shop down here to see if I would like the area.

the level of friendliness and support of business owners in the area and, ever since, has come to love her community that much more.

“I talked the owner at the time into hiring me part time. I started working for Glendale Flowers, and I loved it. I saw the potential that the ower shop could be.”

Garner was pleasantly surprised by

“I’ve made so many really good, long-lasting friends here,” Garner said. “All the merchants and store owners, I just love them all. We help each other. It’s a great camaraderie around here. We always work together and plan di erent events together.”

Sue Garner, right, and her daughter Danea Mensi run Glendale Flowers and Gifts together. (Sue Garner/Submitted)

The

The Glendale Star publishes on Thursday. The weekly calendar — a listing of entertainment events such as concerts, theatrical performances, events for schools, churches, county parks and nonprofit groups — runs every issue.

The Open Mic WEDNESDAYS

Stir Crazy Comedy Club hosts its weekly open mic night. Those interested are likely to see new talent as well as seasoned comedians just looking to work on new material. Think you have what it takes to take the stage and make the audience laugh? Now is your chance. There are 10 sign-up spots that will become available online at noon on Monday.

Stir Crazy Comedy Club, Westgate Entertainment District, 6751 N. Sunset Boulevard, Suite E206, Glendale, visit website for ticket prices and times, stircrazycomedyclub. com

Momma’s Organic Market SATURDAYS

Featuring food trucks, local artisans and fresh produce, this weekly farmers market gives locals the chance to shop local and shop fresh. Taking place near Dillard’s, new vendors grace this event weekly. Admission is free, and furry friends are allowed if they’re on a leash. Cash and cards are accepted as methods of payment, and the market runs from 8 to 11

The Str8 Up Band MAY 11

For those looking for an upbeat act to see, the Str8 Up Band is one to check out. They play a variety of music from genres like hip-hop, disco and jazz in English to salsa, cumbias and Tejano in Spanish. They deliver across these genres thanks to their five singers. Audience participation will not only be welcome but encouraged.

Teens’ Manga Club

MAY 14

Meet up with other teens and discuss manga both recent and old. Suggest your favorites to others, or find something new and exciting from those with similar interests. The club focuses not only on anime and manga, but around the culture that surrounds the community.

Heroes Regional Park Library, 6075 N. 83rd Avenue, Glendale, 2 to 4 p.m., free, glendaleazlibrary. com

website for ticket prices and times, stircrazycomedyclub. com

Mother’s Day Activity

MAY 13

The Deer Valley Family Resource Center is presenting a Mother’s Day activity and crafts for preschool-age children and their families.

Foothills Library — Roadrunner Rom, 19055 N. 57th Avenue, Glendale, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., free, glendaleazlibrary.com

Jam-Boree Acoustic Jam

MAY 13

Bring your acoustic instrument to play along or join the audience at this round-robin, all-acoustic jam session. All skill levels are welcome! This jam session takes place every second and fourth Saturday of each month.

Foothills Library — Roadrunner Rom, 19055 N. 57th Avenue, Glendale, 2 to 4 p.m., free, glendaleazlibrary.com

Events must be open to the public to be considered and generally must be held within the Star’s coverage area, which is in the city of Glendale.

Weekly calendar items print on a space-available basis. The only way to guarantee that an item will print is to purchase an advertisement.

Submissions must reach our o ce by 4 p.m. Thursday to be considered for the following Thursday publication. Submissions must be in writing and may be emailed to Jordan Rogers, jrogers@timeslocalmedia.com.

Big Band Grandstand MAY 15

Become part of a big band and practice your musical skills along with a large collection of other like-minded musicians. Any musician who can sight-read charts is encouraged to show up with their own music stand and instrument to play, getting an experience they could not get simply practicing alone at home.

Foothills Library — Roadrunner Room, 19055 N. 57th Avenue, Glendale, 1 to 3 p.m., free, glendaleazlibrary.com

Mother’s Day Show

MAY 14

Treat mom to a night of comic relief. This show is stand-up comedy that’s appropriate for the entire family, so everyone can enjoy it. The show will feature Dan Hanson, Gene Moore, Ron Morey and Nancy Yeamans.

Stir Crazy Comedy Club, Westgate Entertainment District, 6751 N. Sunset Boulevard, Suite E206, Glendale, visit website for ticket prices and times, stircrazycomedyclub. com

Sandra Bassett’s Mother’s Day Special MAY 14

Join Sandra Bassett and her band on Mother’s Day as she introduces her unique flare to her jazz and Motown performances. Considered one of the great voices of the Motown genre, Bassett and her players are known for the songs powerhouse vocals and smooth range of sounds with background vocals.

Westside Blues and Jazz Club, 17045 N. 59th Avenue, Suite 104, Glendale, visit website for ticket prices and times, westsideblues.com

Downtown Glendale celebrates mothers with special event

BY LAURA LATZKO Glendale Star Staff Writer

In Historic Downtown Glendale, business leaders come together to put on special events throughout the year, and one of these events commemorates Mother’s Day with activities, promotions, trails and giveaways dedicated to the special women in people’s lives.

This year, the Mother’s Day Celebration will take place on Saturday, May 13, in the Catlin Court and Old Towne neighborhoods of Historic Downtown Glendale.

The popular charm trail will return for the special event. As part of this activity, participants can collect one-of-a-kind charms at participating shops.

Starter bracelets and special Mother’s Day charms will be available at Glendale Flowers and Gifts, 7163 N. 58th Drive, Glendale; Memory Lane Trinkets and Treasures, 5836 W. Palmaire Avenue,

Glendale; and Pink House Boutique, 7009 N. 58th Avenue, Glendale.

Lorraine Zomok, president of the His-

toric Downtown Glendale Merchants Association, said over the years, some patrons have amassed multiple brace-

lets, which they are now turning into necklaces.

“Our customers embrace the things that we do here,” Zomok said. “They share, they connect and they make us better.”

A book drive will be on-site to benefit Glendale Public Libraries. Attendees are asked to bring new and gently read books to be donated to the local libraries.

The library is especially in need of children’s, teen and current nonfiction and fiction books.

In addition, the event will feature a flower trail, where mothers receive free carnations at different shops. The idea is that by the end of the day, they will have gathered a colorful bouquet of carnations.

Visitors can also take part in the

New baby, dad’s heart attack add meaning to Mother’s Day

BY KEITH JONES

Glendale Star Contributing Writer

Mother’s Day this year will be extra special for Emily Christison and Justin Elms.

Hours after their daughter’s birth at Abrazo Arrowhead Campus, Elms had a “widowmaker” heart attack. Thanks to lifesaving care at the Glendale hospital, they’ll celebrate as a family on Sunday.

Their daughter, June, was born in March at Abrazo Arrowhead Campus. Visiting Christison and their newborn baby, Elms wasn’t feeling well. He went to the hospital’s ER and was quickly taken to the cardiac catheterization lab where doctors found a near-total blockage in his heart.

“It was a whirlwind couple of days,” Christison said. “I had a baby on Wednesday morning, and by Thursday afternoon, Justin had a heart attack. He spent a day in the ICU, but we were all able to go home by early Friday evening.”

Emily’s nurse, Mary Krupa, remembered how the day unfolded.

“Most new dads are usually so exhausted by the

events surrounding a birth, but he seemed like he really wasn’t feeling well and decided to go to the emergency department to get checked out,” Krupa said.

As it turned out, it was a good thing he did.

“Justin had been feeling kind of lightheaded and then had a really bad episode,” Christison said. “He walked down to the ER, and within 25 minutes a nurse came in to tell me he had a heart attack and was getting stents put in. They called it a ‘widowmaker’ heart attack because he had a 99% blockage.

Krupa said it was a very emotional time.

“She was shaken by what had happened,” she said. “It was crazy, but everything went as best as it could. Talk about being in the right place at the right time for

(Abrazo Health/Submitted)

Linda Burner, left, her son Coit Burner and daughter-in-law Valerie Burner of Bears and More. It is one of the many stores that is gearing up for Downtown Glendale’s Mother’s Day Celebration. (Lorraine Zomok/Submitted)

Justin Elms survived a “widowmaker” heart attack just hours after Emily Christison gave birth to their baby, June, at Abrazo Arrowhead Campus. Thanks to teamwork by the hospital’s caregivers and physicians, the family will enjoy Mother’s Day together.

Local woman retires after serving community for 25 years

BY JORDAN ROGERS

Glendale Star Managing Editor

Denise Combs, who retired last month from The Salvation Army Glendale Corps Community Center, had spent over two decades of her life serving the community with the nonprofit.

She began her service with the Glendale Corps as a van driver, and over her 25 years with the organization, she worked her way up to becoming its business coordinator.

“I really enjoyed working for the Salvation Army,” said Combs, who added that she is excited about retirement.

As a van driver, Combs transported people to and from various programming events. From there, she became a program assistant, coordinating all facets of community opportunities offered by the Glendale Corps, including youth programs like Sunbeams, Adventure Corps, and the Bible Bowl for teenagers.

She was also heavily involved in women’s ministry, organizing programs such as the Women’s Home League. Combs also helped organize annual Christmas Angel Tree and Red Kettle programs during the holiday season.

Through it all, though, she said the people were her favorite part of her time at the Glendale Corps.

“The clients were amazing,” said Combs, who lives in Phoenix. “Nobody wants to go and ask for help, but they’re very grateful when they receive it. There are a lot of proud people that are like, ‘No, I don’t want to do that. I don’t want to go in and ask for food, or I don’t want to go in and ask for utility assistance.’

“But sometimes you have to, because there’s just not another choice in the

matter. The people are just very responsive and very grateful for the help that they receive.”

Combs always thought she would wind up in accounting, as she loves numbers. But, as it turned out, community service was her future.

“You learn to love other things, too,” she said. “It must have been a calling, because that’s where God stuck me for 25 years.”

Combs, who officially retired on April 3, said many of her co-workers were surprised to see her go, but she feels as though the Glendale Corps is in good hands despite her departure.

“We have some new, strong, young people that are going to start doing our jobs,” she said.

Combs said she will remain busy in her retirement. She would like to grow a garden and travel more — she said she and her husband have looked into visiting Australia and the South Pacific Area.

“We were looking at cruises again today,” she said.

Combs highly recommends volunteering with the Glendale Corps.

“I think volunteers there with the Salvation Army do an awesome job,” she said. “They come and go. We’ve had groups and we’ve had church members and just anybody that’s looking for something to do. It’s an awesome experience.”

Denise Combs was recently honored by The Salvation Army Glendale Corps Community Center with a plaque commemorating her 25 years of service to the community. (The Salvation Army/Submitted)

Hospital investments pay off for Abrazo

BY KEITH JONES

Glendale Star Contributing Writer

Abrazo Arrowhead Campus opened the first of two new, upgraded cardiac catheterization laboratories in fall 2022.

A second catheterization lab is currently under construction. The hospital is also in the midst of a major expansion of its neonatal care unit for premature babies.

“In addition to having truly fantastic physicians and caregivers on our staff, we are continually making investments in our talent and technology to serve our community,” Abrazo Health CEO Stephen Garner. “These

investments pay off when we hear heartwarming stories of lives being saved, babies being born, and compassionate care from our nurses and staff.”

Abrazo Arrowhead Campus has earned accolades and certifications from independent bodies like the American Heart Association and Arizona Perinatal Trust and was named a top regional hospital by U.S. News and World Report. Abrazo offers a free online heart health risk assessment at abrazohealth.com/heartquiz.

something like that to happen.”

The next surprise was Elms coming up from the ICU to reassure Christison that he was OK and to see the baby.

“I’m so grateful and happy that I could be a part of that experience,” Krupa said.

Eleshia Barrett, who was charge nurse that day, said the incident was not exactly a normal one.

“Mom handled it like a champ,” Barrett said. “It’s definitely something that we don’t see every day here in Labor and Delivery.”

Life at home has been a little different than expected, Christison said. Aside from having a new little sister for 2-yearold Paisley, they’re working on healthier lifestyles and Elms’ recovery.

Christison added that family and friends have been supportive, bringing meals and helping them get settled.

“Everyone knows the story. ‘Oh, you’re the baby and heart-attack person,’” she laughed. “If we hadn’t already been in the hospital, Justin wouldn’t be here today. All the nurses were wonderful and helpful. Now everybody is healthy and happy.”

Every day is Mother’s Day in the Abrazo Arrowhead Campus Labor and Delivery Unit, but Krupa and Barrett both agree that Christison, Elms and family will have an extra special reason to celebrate on May 14.

Peacock Path, in which they try to find ornamental metal peacocks hidden at different locations.

When they discover peacocks, participants receive stickers on passports. After they find all eight, they can take their passports to the Arizona Information Center, located at 5836 W. Palmaire Avenue, Glendale, for a special prize.

Zomok, who also co-owns Memory Lane and the Spicery in Our 1895 Home, has been president of the merchants association since it started in 2018.

She said through the organization, businesses are able to come together to highlight Downtown Glendale.

“I’m so honored to be part of this or ganization and see the work that it has done to create events and showcase all the wonderful traditions and happen ings in Downtown Glendale,” Zomok said.

Historic Downtown Glendale features a mix of new and longtime businesses who help to carry on established tradi tions and bring new ideas.

Historic Downtown Glendale, espe cially the Catlin Court area, is a testa

ment to female business owners. Zomok said around 87% of businesses in the area are owned by female entrepreneurs.

Zomok said the shop and restaurant owners are dedicated to providing a customer-driven experience. Through events such as the Mother’s Day Celebration, they are able to highlight what makes the area special.

“It’s really an opportunity to make sure our customers have the best experience when they come to Downtown Glendale, something that you can’t experience in other places,” Zomok said. “Historic Downtown Glendale truly is authentic and iconic. There’s no place like it in the Valley.

or vendors.

The Arizona Dolly and Toy Museum, located at 5847 W. Myrtle Avenue, Glendale, is offering free admission to mothers throughout the day.

Cerreta Candy Company, located at 5345 W. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, has special Mother’s Day items such as a milk chocolate cactus, pink French mint boxes, chocolate roses and a milk chocolate heart-shaped jewelry box.

At Memory Lane, there will be several artisans on site, including Denise Kartman and Sissy Bee.

The Spicery located at 7141 N. 59th Avenue, Glendale, will have two seatings of a three-course tea.

able by the dozen.

For Zomok, many attendees visit Downtown Glendale for the first time during special events such as the Downtown Glendale Mother’s Day Celebration.

“There’s an opportunity for new people month after month to experience and be introduced to our Downtown,” she said. “That’s an important part of our events, too, is that they bring new audiences that have never been here before.”

Mother’s Day Celebration

WHEN: 10 a.m. Saturday, May 13

WHERE: Start at Arizona Information Center, 5836 W. Palmaire Avenue, Glendale, for walking maps and event information

COST: Free admission; $5 for starter bracelet and $2 for additional charms; additional costs for some activities

INFO: visitdowntownglendale. com

Life has its ups, downs and all-arounds

Here’s a thought for you. God loves you just the way you are, but God loves you too much to leave you the way you are. So let’s go onward and upward.

Today, I’d like to bring awareness on managing weapons of mass distraction such as discouragement, stress, trouble or criticism, which impede our quality of life. I will use powerful quotes by many people, accessing their potent wisdom in e ecting change for the better. All quoted statements are in the public domain. I hope this article releases inspiration and application, giving a road map to those ready to step forward and upward.

Does life stress you out right now? If so, here’s something to remember. “A diamond is just a piece of charcoal that handled stress exceptionally well.” God says this about striving. “See those mountains you are carrying; you were supposed to climb them.” Remember, “Don’t despair when you see what is happening around you; even Moses started as a basket case.” “Sometimes when you’re in a dark place, you think you’re buried, but actually, you’ve been planted.”

Adjusting your focus, “If you don’t like something, and it’s not essential or signi cant, just take away its only power: your attention.” “If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.” e solution? “When life shuts a door … open it again. It’s a door. at’s how doors work.” However, if the door stays closed after multiple attempts, it may be someone else’s door. Don’t quit. Find your door.

Are you distracted or troubled about your age catching up with you? Consider this: “Wrinkles mean you laughed, gray hair means you cared, and scars mean you lived.” “So far, you have survived 100% of your worst days.” And remember, “ ere are people on this earth who would love to have your bad days.” Another thought, “One of the happiest moments in life is when you nd the cour-

CHURCH COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Pastor Ed Delph Glendale Star Columnist

age to let go of what you can’t change.” More wisdom, “No one is going to stand and say at your funeral, ‘She had an expensive couch and great shoes.’ Don’t make life about stu .”

Are you distracted by others judging you? Even if you made the biggest mistake ever, you need to say to them and yourself, “Do not judge my life by the chapter you walked in on.” Do you realize, “You had a purpose before others had an opinion?” Remember, “An o ense is an event. Being o ended is a choice. Stop looking for happiness in the same place you lost it.”

A general truth about those who judge harshly is, “ ose least quali ed to condemn you will. And those most qualied to condemn you won’t.” So chew up the meat and spit out the bones when others criticize you. “Life is a camera: Focus on what’s important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, when you take a bad photo, take another shot.” Finally, “Consider the turtle. It only makes progress when it sticks its neck out.”

Are you distracted by your associates or friends’ constant drama? Be wise.

“You become like the ve people you spend the most time with. Choose carefully.” In other words, if you hang around with ve drama kings and queens, you are about to become the sixth drama king or queen. Be discerning. “Some talk to you in their free time, and some free their time to talk to you. Learn the di erence.” “When you nally learn how much you are worth, you will stop giving discounts.” Know your value, then add tax. Hello?

Here are some “equipping you for life” quotes. “ e world is lled with nice people. If you can’t nd one, be one.” “Let your smile change the world, but don’t let the world change your smile.”

“Live without pretending, love without depending, listen without defending, speak without o ending.” “ e rst to apologize is the bravest. e rst to forgive is the strongest. e rst to forget is the happiest.” “Before you assume, get the facts. Before you judge, understand why. Before you hurt someone, feel. Before you speak, think.”

How’s this for living large? “Your smile is your logo. Your personality is your

business card. How you leave others feeling after transacting is your trademark.”

Please have con dence in God supplying you with the power to apply this wisdom. “Faith is like a toothbrush. Every person should have one and use it regularly, but he shouldn’t try to use someone else’s.”

I love this nal thought about life’s ups, downs and all-arounds, written by an unknown author.

“Life is a challenge — meet it.

Life is a gift — accept it.

Life is an adventure — dare it.

Life is a sorrow — overcome it.

Life is a tragedy — face it.

Life is a duty — perform it.

Life is a game — play it.

Life is a mystery — unfold it.

Life is a song — sing it.

Life is an opportunity — take it.

Life is a journey — complete it.

Life is a promise — ful ll it.

Life is a beauty — praise it.

Life is a struggle — ght it.

Life is a goal — achieve it.

Life is a puzzle — solve it.

Life is eternal — believe it.”

Never stop learning because “God life” never stops teaching.

Ed Delph is a noted author of 10 books, as well as a pastor, teacher, former business owner and speaker. He has traveled extensively, having been to more than 100 countries. He is president of NationStrategy, a nonprofit organization involved in uplifting and transforming communities worldwide. For more information, see nationstrategy.com. He may be contacted at nationstrategy@cs.com.

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Mothers Day-gift for every mother and all women attending Guest organist -Kevin De Yager

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Night 7:00 p.m. www.hcaz.org

Staying in Arizona for the summer? Our “Faith Family” is here every Sunday to welcome you.

“An inclusive, welcoming, caring community, serving Jesus Christ”

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Sunday Bible Study 9 a.m.

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For more youth visit glendalestar.com

Landmark School hosts panel to help students

BY JOE McHUGH Glendale Star Staff Writer

Glendale Landmark School brings in students of all backgrounds and gives them a place to learn and grow.

For some of the boys in the school, though, it is difficult for them to adapt to the school environment, as they lack the “positive male influence” in their lives attending a school predominantly taught by women, according to Glendale Landmark teacher Angel Moore.

With this in mind, the school recently set up a panel of “positive male figures” from various backgrounds that came in to assist a group of 13 boys ranging from 10 to 15 years old, aiding them with many aspects of life in an open forum discussion. The panel covered topics

from emotion control, hygiene, and respect to conflict control, how to properly shake hands with someone, and how to tie a tie.

“As much as we are here for them to support them, they need male role models,” Moore said. “They need to see men in prominent places doing positive things. So having positive men from the community come out and support them and hear them means a lot to them.”

A difficult topic that the panel also dove into was conflict control. “Violence isn’t the answer” was a major discussion.

Throughout its time, the boys at the panel shared personal stories and asked hard-hitting questions. By the end, pan-

West Valley school districts honored by nonprofit

BYJOE McHUGH Glendale Star Staff Writer

School Connect recently held its awards ceremony to recognize leaders in Arizona’s youth, and many West Valley school districts were honored at it.

In total, the nonprofit honored eight schools with awards and recognized over 24 for excellence in various aspects.

“We really believe that it will take a village to help every child reach their potential,” School Connect founder and CEO Tracey Beal said.

“So that means that we’re building partnerships with businesses, nonprofit, civic groups, faith groups, everyone in the community, in strategic partnerships around schools. So that’s our purpose as an organization, and then the school connect awards are really highlighting the powerful and amazing things happening in schools all over Arizona.”

School Connect has been focusing on connecting schools to their communities since being founded in 2014. For Beal, the goal was always to bring attention to the “amazing” things that schools in the community are doing, offering them exposure and recognition through an awards process.

“We really want to highlight, first of all, stories that are showing people who are doing great work,” Beal said. “I think sometimes the narrative around education doesn’t reflect some of the powerful things happening, and so we look for

those people in all of those categories who are building partnerships at whatever level they are.”

Anyone can be anonymously nominated for an award, and when Tassin had learned of her nomination for the Catalyst for Education Award, she said she felt humbled.

“I’m definitely super honored and humbled by the nomination,” Wigwam Creek Middle School Principal Jennifer Tassin said. “When I received the information, it was definitely very humbling. And I really appreciate the person who put my name out there and just appreciate that thoughtfulness.”

Tassin and Wigwam Creek were anonymously nominated, to which she was “shocked,” but the nomination was backed by three main programs that Tassin and her team have been working on since the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are just trying to get ahead with

Glendale Landmark School recently hosted a panel for positive male figures for its students. (Glendale Elementary School District/Submitted)

The School Connect Awards were held in honor of schools around the state, and 24 finalists were recognized for their accomplishments in the community. (Socially Insight/Submitted)

NONPROFIT FROM PAGE 22

just very normal social problems that you would nd in any middle school but trying to bring in the community and all stakeholders to be a part of problem solving,” Tassin said.

e partnership with the Maricopa County Sheri ’s Department and National Guard focuses on the situations the students face on a daily basis. ese main focuses have helped the school put an emphasis on suspensions and drug use to “empower students” through these issues.

With all the work done to better her school and community, Tassin feels that being a nalist for the Catalyst for Change award seems to be an apt descriptor of their e orts.

“I de nitely think we’re a catalyst for change as far as going against some of the normal expectations and trying to go out things outside of the box to support our students,” she said. “It takes a village to make sure our students are being successful. So, if there are things that we can do, and that means that we’re catalysts for change in traditional approaches, then I de nitely feel like we kind of took that bull by the horns to try and do something di erent.”

Although Tassin wasn’t awarded the rst-place prize, the nomination alone is more than enough a motivator to keep doing what she and her sta are doing to better her “village.”

“We do what we do every day because we love our students and we love our sta , and sometimes just that little bit of

recognition that we are doing the right thing, because we don’t always get that from parents or community members (helps),” Tassin said. “You always hear the negative, so to be in any way rewarded, even if it was just the nomination, it does give you that little bit of boost that you need when you’re exhausted to continue doing the right thing, because it’s the right thing to do.

“It de nitely a rms that there are people out there who do appreciate that we are trying to do what’s best for our students, no matter no matter what that means.”

e School Connect awards will continue to look to provide a positive space for schools to keep growing in their community and provide validation for the work they have already done to support.

“Upon learning that Valencia Newcomer School had received the ‘Because it Takes a Village Award’ from School Connect, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and excitement,” Alhambra Elementary School District Superintendent Dr. Cecilia Maes said.

“ is recognition serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication and collaborative e orts of our schools and community partners in fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all our students. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to School Connect for acknowledging and honoring champions in education.”

For more information on School Connect or to view the award winners, visit schoolconnectaz.org.

el members and participants were tight knit, which is something Moore had hoped would happen after it had nished.

“It means a lot,” she said. “It makes me very proud of them showing that they showed the respect that we’ve been trying to teach them throughout the program. Just being there and seeing them just open up to (the panel) in general and just talk about things that they can’t talk to women or talk to their teachers or whoever with them, just having someone that can kind of relate to them on a male level.”

e panel was inspired by the school’s self-contained social-emotional program, which focuses on helping the boys control their emotions and learn to grow in a positive way. e goal is that the

skills they use and learn in the program are ones that will help them get through life in the most e ective way and become better equipped for their future.

For Moore, it also showed the boys that people in the community are willing to come to their aid.

“It means the world to me, just for them to see that people care outside,” she said. “Because if you hear them sometimes throughout the week, and they’re upset and things like that, and they don’t feel like someone cares, or whatever they’re going through, and to see that people that don’t even know them will come in and spend time with them. I have no words for that.”

If Moore had to pick a takeaway from the event, there was one thing that stood out to her above all else.

“People care,” she said.

480-898-6465

Your Online Image Matters JOB SEEKERS

Imagine that you have applied for your dream job. You’ve had a successful interview and you’re just waiting for the job offer. However, it never comes because the hiring manager searched your social media and found a TikTok video of you complaining about your former work place.

Fair? Maybe not, but your social media can make or break a job opportunity.

According to Business News Daily, more than 75% of hiring managers use social media to learn about potential candidates. Other polls put the number even higher and say that 79% of HR managers have rejected someone because of what they learned about them online. The Muse say that among those who look at a candidate’s social media, 65% are looking to measure a potential employee’s professionalism and how they conduct themselves in social situations, 51% are looking to see whether the person would fit in their company culture and 45% are looking to find more information about a person’s qualifications.

Sometimes your social media can help you get the job. Employers say they are more likely to hire someone if their social media showed that they had a good personality, a professional image, a wide range of interests and that their background information was accurate.

Protect your privacy

Does this mean you have to delete everything personal? No, but it does mean you need to pay attention to who has access to what. Most social media accounts give you the option to make your profile or specific posts private. Use this feature.

Be careful about who you friend and give access to your account. Is your ac-

count a professional one that you want co-workers and potential employers to see? If it isn’t, then only allow friends and family to see it.

Google yourself

Learn what potential employers will find. Do you have old accounts floating around that should be deleted?

Look for things that you wouldn’t want employers to find and try to clean them up. If they belong to you, you can make the posts private, archive photos or change your settings to “only me.” If they belong to someone else, reach out to them and ask them to remove the posts.

Switch to the “images” tab to see what photos are out there of you. Are they professional? Google yourself in incognito mode so you have a greater chance at seeing what hiring managers will see.

Build your online brand

Your user name on social media and your handles are part of your brand. Be consistent across platforms and choose something professional. Your real first and last name—the one you use on your resume—is best for such platforms as LinkedIn and Facebook. If your name is taken on a platform, Makeuseof.com recommends using your name followed by a qualifier that is related to the work that you want to do such as YourName_ Programmer.

Show that you are invested in your career by following accounts relevant to your profession. Make posts about trends and news in your profession, but be sure to keep them positive and upbeat.

Curate content that is relevant to what you want to do and will show potential hiring managers your expertise.

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