The Chandler Arizonan 10.04.2020 by Times Media Group

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From Uptown to Downtown, covering Chandler like the sun.

An edition of the East Valley Tribune

INSIDE

This Week

NEWS................................ 13

Domestic violence tragedies mount.

COMMUNITY.............. 22

Chandler woman debuts first novel.

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October 4, 2020

CUSD may move Erie students to new school BY KEVIN REAGAN Arizonan Staff Writer

handler Unified administrators want to relocate Arizona College Prep-Erie’s 800 students to the district’s new high school campus next school year. The relocation across town from Erie’s present campus near Dobson Road and Chandler Boulevard to the high school under construction at Gilbert and Ocotillo roads is part of a plan that also includes adjusting the boundaries of two other high schools that would take effect in either 2024 or 2025.

The Erie students would join their peers living within the new high school’s enrollment boundaries, currently Ocotillo, Cooper, Lindsay and Chandler Heights roads. Students living in this region are currently assigned to Perry High. Moving the Erie students and changing some other boundaries are part of the district’s effort to equalize the population on its high school campuses. The Governing Board might vote on the plan Oct. 14. Administrators said that moving Erie students to the new school, which opens next July, would enable more students to take

advantage of academic programs that have earned Erie the U.S. Department of Education’s “Blue Ribbon School” designation. “ACP-Erie can expand and offer its successful program to more students,” administrators wrote about the plan. The move also would save the district $6 million for a planned expansion of the Erie campus and renovations to Andersen Junior High’s football stadium, which is utilized by ACP-Oakland’s students. In turn, Oakland students would relocate

see ERIE page 6

21 city buildings Smiles in adversity need $28M in repairs BY KEVIN REAGAN Arizonan Staff Writer

GET OUT........................ 33 Halloween is a go at pumpkin party.

NEWS........................................ 3 COMMUNITY........................22 BUSINESS...............................27 OPINION............................... 30 SPORTS...................................32 GET OUT................................33 CLASSIFIEDS..........................35

wenty-one Chandler public buildings have been found to be in “poor” condition and immediately require more than $28 million of infrastructure improvements, according to a recent assessment of city facilities. A rating system developed by Faithful and Gould, a real estate consultant, has determined the Chandler Center for the Arts, police headquarters and senior center each need millions of dollars’ worth of maintenance needs in the near future. Out of the 47 police stations, libraries and courthouses assessed around Chandler, Faithful determined 21 were in good condition, five were fair, and 21 were poor. None of the facilities were found to be unsafe nor were any recommended for

see BUILDINGS page 8

Chandler resident Kylie Lark, 12, is staying strong while going through multiple treatments for a bone cancer in one of her legs. Details: page 3. (Special to the Arizonan)

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Chandler girl, 12, stays strong in cancer fight BY KATY SPRINGER Arizonan Contributor

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t started as a lump on her knee. Twelve-year-old Kylie Lark had taken a spill down the stairs and her parents, Jolene and Daryl, figured she had sprained something. They did all of the right things – ice, elevation and rest – but ended up in urgent care when her leg didn’t get better. They were worried Kylie may have torn a ligament. They never considered the possibility of pediatric cancer. “The doctor called us at home and asked if we were sitting down,” said Jolene. “He said the x-ray showed a cancerous mass on her knee. We were absolutely blindsided. Our lives were turned upside down in that moment.” The next morning, May 4, Kylie was admitted to Phoenix Children’s Hospital, where doctors gave a formal diagnosis: osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, on her knee and femur. She would need to begin an aggressive chemotherapy treatment schedule immediately, followed by a total knee replacement and partial femur replacement. “We were in a hospital for about a week after the diagnosis so that Kylie could get started on her chemo, but we’ve been back to the hospital many times over the course of her treatment because the medication makes her so sick,” said Jolene. COVID-19 added an extra layer of complication and stress. “Patients can only have one visitor right now, which means Daryl and I are constantly taking turns,” Jolene added. “During those long days and weeks in the hospital, we see each other for about two minutes a day in the hospital lobby when we swap places. I can’t begin to explain how hard it has been.” Kylie’s diagnosis has affected the entire family in profound ways. Not only are Daryl and Jolene two ships in the night, but Kylie’s siblings – Jeffrey, 27, Jacob, 23, and Kayla, 13 – are also stressed as their younger sister suffers the terrible side effects of cancer treatment. “Kayla and Kylie are especially close,” said Jolene. “We’ve driven Kayla to the hospital to wave at Kylie in her hospital room, and that does help, but Kayla has started to have nightmares about the can-

Kylie Lark, 12, pictured here with family members, faces painful cancer treatment. (Special to the Arizonan)

cer. She’s crushed by worry. We all are.” For her part, Kylie remains positive and happy. The long-time Girl Scout and volleyball player is described as a high-achieving student, a natural-born leader and the first to befriend a new student at school. The Hull Elementary sixth-grader earned the moniker “Smiley Kylie” at a very young age. “She is so friendly and kind to everyone,” said Jolene. “Now we’re seeing this incredible strength in her.” Kylie is now in month six of her 12-month treatment. She has undergone 10 sessions of chemotherapy and one surgery so far. The next six months will bring 10 more chemo sessions and a second surgery, this time to remove unknown spots on her lungs. From there, Kylie hopes to get back on the volleyball court and back to life. “We have learned to take things one day at a time,” said Jolene. “We’re focused on getting through one day, and then the next, and we try not to think too far into the future. I don’t think we would have made it this far without our community.” Indeed, the Larks’ friends and family have shown steady support, from meals and gifts to a drive-by parade for Kylie when she returned home from the hospital after the initial diagnosis. Children’s Cancer Network, a Chandlerbased nonprofit organization serving pediatric cancer families across Arizona, also has stepped up to help. “A social worker at Phoenix Children’s

Hospital connected us to CCN and Patti Luttrell,” said Jolene. “From the moment we first talked to Patti on the phone, she has been such a support to our family. CCN helped Kylie get her wig after she lost her hair!” “Our biggest priority is to ensure no family has to fight cancer alone,” said Luttrell, CCN’s founder and executive director. “The pandemic has made things so much harder on families. Many are facing extreme financial strain, but they’re also isolated and suffering social and emotional difficulties. We’re here to help with all of it.” CCN provides a host of services to families like the Larks, from gas cards that offset the cost of travel to and from chemo, grocery gift cards to help parents feed their families, wigs, health and wellness activities, support programs for siblings, college scholarships and numerous others. Childhood cancer continues to be the most overshadowed and underfunded category of all cancer research, comprising just 4 percent of federal funding. In the last 20 years, only four new drugs have been approved by the FDA to treat childhood cancer specifically. For their part, the Larks are eager to raise funds for childhood cancer. “The drugs for childhood cancer are so old,” said Jolene. “It’s really crazy. Medicine has come so far, but we’re still using drugs from the 1950’s and 60’s on our children.” Added Luttrell, “Research funding is limited because the number of children diagnosed with cancer is small compared to the numbers of adult cancer patients. “The survival rate for kids is improving, but two-thirds of them experience chronic and even life-threatening secondary effects from toxic treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. The societal impact of pediatric cancer is significant, even though the numbers are smaller.” Children’s Cancer Network’s 10th annual Run to Fight Children’s Cancer, a virtual 5k/10k scheduled Oct. 18-25, provides an opportunity to build awareness of childhood cancer and raise money for research, treatments, patient education and support services. The race benefits CCN and Phoenix Children’s Hospital. $45. runtofightcancer.com

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

Chandler Council introduces new short-term rental regs BY KEVIN REAGAN Arizonan Staff Writer

handler City Council has introduced new regulations intended to help the city better keep track of short-term rental properties that turn into troublesome “party houses.” On Sept. 17, Council unanimously passed an ordinance that tentatively amends the city’s codes to make Chandler’s rental properties more accountable to the government. Owners of local short-term rentals, which are homes typically rented out through websites like AirBnb and Vrbo, will have to register with the city by providing the owner’s contact information and require owners to obtain a tax license through the state Department of Revenue. A property owner will be obligated to respond within one hour to any inquiries from the city regarding a nuisance complaint made against their rental or its occupants. The codes further prohibit these prop-

erties from hosting any nonresidential activities that “disturb the peace and enjoyment of neighboring properties.” Short-term rentals cannot operate as any type of commercial business, event center, sober living home, adult-oriented business, nor house sex offenders.

Council appeared satisfied with the level of accountability outlined in the rental codes and hoped they would better empower Chandler’s neighborhoods to resolve issues before they turn into nuisances. “I think this ordinance, in the way that

it was set up, will do some great things to help move the needle and give the homeowner associations and owners in those neighborhoods some ability to do some things,” said Councilman Mark Stewart. Arizona’s short-term rental industry has been heavily scrutinized in recent years due to complaints from residents across the Valley about homes that become a revolving door for rowdy, noisy partygoers. Police departments in various cities have reported responding to altercations at short-term rentals that have turned violent or even deadly. A 26-yearold man was killed at an AirBnb rental in Chandler last summer after an argument broke out during a party. The Legislature passed a law last year that offered municipalities some leeway in regulating disruptive short-term rentals and Chandler’s new code regulations were written to conform with the changes. Violators of the Chandler’s new codes

see RENTALS page 19

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CITY NEWS

ERIE from page 1

to Erie’s campus, where they would have greater access to sports facilities. CUSD would then use Oakland’s old campus as a facility to host expanded offerings for the district’s community education programs. There are still unanswered questions about the plan – including the school uniform policy currently in force at Erie. It’s unclear whether students who are within the new school’s boundaries but not in the Erie college preparation program would have to wear uniforms or whether the policy would be dropped. “This will be a collaborative conversation with the parents in the new boundaries, ACP-Erie parents, students and the principal once the high school boundaries have been approved,” district administrators said in their recommendation. “A series of meetings will be held to gather information from all members of the school community.” The new high school – CUSD’s seventh – is positioned on the south end of Perry High School’s enrollment boundaries. CUSD presented a number of options earlier this year for reshuffling school boundaries.

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

Unlike Chandler’s other high schools, Erie was intended to be a smaller campus that focused on preparing students for college through rigorous coursework and personalized learning. The school accepts students through an open enrollment process that involves filling out an application. Attendance at the new high school would be based on both open enrollment applications for the Erie program and the new school’s residential boundaries, according to the proposed plan. Although the proposed plan involves drawing in hundreds of students from the new school’s surrounding neighborhoods, CUSD insists the new campus can maintain the culture already established for Erie students and staff. The district plans to have the new school keep Erie’s knight mascot and the school’s “Arizona College Prep” logo. “ACP-Erie is known throughout Arizona and the United States as an exceptional school and it is important not to lose the reputation that has been established for the benefit of current and future families,” district officials wrote. CUSD has an alternative boundary plan that would impact the class of 2024 if the Erie

students were not relocated. The proposed boundary changes in the recommended option would not take effect until 2025. The recommended plan would also redraw some of the boundary lines for Hamilton High – the district’s largest campus, which ended the last school year with more than 4,000 students. CUSD proposes moving Hamilton’s perimeter of Chandler Boulevard, Alma School, Pecos and McQueen roads to Chandler High’s boundary. District officials said the move would facilitate transportation because the perimeter is geographically adjacent to Chandler High’s campus. Chandler High has a new wing that can accommodate a big influx of additional students, the district said, noting the move would prevent Hamilton becoming too overcrowded. The district’s plan further proposes moving an area bordered by Val Vista Drive and Ocotillo, Lindsay and Chandler Heights roads out of Perry High’s boundary and over to Basha High. CUSD hope reshuffling the boundaries will keep enrollment levels at each high school campus between 1,500 and 2,000 students. At the end of the last school year, none of the district’s schools – with the excep-

tion of Erie – had fewer than 2,000 high school students. Erie’s 800 students still exceed the school building's capacity of 765 pupils. If Erie’s students were to remain at their current campus, CUSD would likely have to move more of Perry’s boundaries over to the new school and carve up more of Hamilton’s enrollment area. CUSD also envisions saving money on the new school's staffing because Erie’s personnel would be transferred there. But some of Erie’s families are concerned about losing the school’s culture by moving students to a bigger campus. According to feedback received by the district, parents have told CUSD they don’t want Erie to change its small learning environment and other parents are worried about Erie’s rigorous standards. Erie has already composed a year-long plan for how it would slowly integrate students at the new school campus. The district would begin offering tours of the campus starting in December and January, then start hosting a number of orientation events in the spring. Students and parents can submit feedback on the plan by emailing alloway.stacey@cusd80.com.

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CITY NEWS

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BUILDINGS from page 1

demolition. If the city was to not make any maintenance investments over the next decade, Faithful predicts Chandler will have 36 buildings fall into poor condition and one – the senior center – may deteriorate enough to make it unusable. Faithful defines “poor” as a building nearing the end of its useful or serviceable life and “fair” as a facility subject to wear but still serviceable.

Dean Leonard, Faithful’s technical director, said his firm’s assessment should be interpreted as a roadmap for how the city might want to prioritize infrastructure needs over the next few years. “It’s about creating knowledge and insight about facilities in order to make decisions,” he said. In an uncertain era like the COVID-19 crisis, Leonard added, cities across Arizona will need more data to figure out how to meet their maintenance needs without eating too much into their budgets.

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“Everybody’s still trying to get their arms around what budgets look like – what the new normal looks like,” he said. For example, the Arizona Department of Transportation canceled a slew of improvement projects across the state after revenue projections showed it would lose tens of millions of dollars to fund them. Faithful estimates Chandler will need to spend $65 million over the next 10 years in order to keep its highly-utilized facilities serviceable to the public. About $28 million of those needs should be addressed within the next couple years, according to Faithful’s analysis. The Center for the Arts, which was built in the late 1980s, and the main police station are said to each need more than $6.5 million in improvements over the next decade – the most expensive needs among the buildings assessed around Chandler.

moving into a budget process later on into next year,” she said. Some council members are wondering how to factor the pandemic’s impact into the findings of Faithful’s assessment. Because so many of Chandler’s employees have spent the last six months working from home, they want to know if some of the city’s buildings could become obsolete or unneeded in the near future. It may be a difficult question to answer, said Vice Mayor Rene Lopez, since the entire work environment and landscape has radically changed due to the pandemic. “We have a lot more remote (workers) but now those in the office require more space because of social distancing,” said Lopez, who called on city officials to conduct a study on space utilization at the city’s buildings. Furthermore, Faithful’s assessment

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This chart shows how many Chandler public buildings will deteriorate over the next 10 years, according to a consultant. (City of Chandler)

Some expenditures these two facilities need include roofing, carpeting, plumbing and fixtures. The main library, community center, City Hall parking garage and public works building will each need between $3-4 million to maintain upkeep. Other facilities – like the Tumbleweed Tennis Center and the Chandler Museum – are estimated to need fewer and cheaper improvements valued at about $100,000. City Manager Marsha Reed said Chandler’s current budget has dedicated $1.1 million for facility improvements across the city – an amount that’s subject to change each year when City Council passes a budget. Faithful’s assessment was imperative to understanding the lifespan of Chandler’s aging buildings, Reed added, and will hopefully help the city invest its resources wisely. “We will be having a lot more conversations around all of this as we start

may come up again as the city decides whether to hold an election next year and ask voters to let Chandler obtain bond funding for infrastructure needs. Bonds provide about 52 percent of the city’s funding for its capital improvement projects and city officials have recently said Chandler can’t finance some needs without a bond election. “Without them, our ability to add new capital or maintain existing capital would be extremely limited,” Dawn Lang, the city’s management services director, said earlier this year. The passage of a bond election doesn’t automatically add more to the city’s debt or raise property taxes, Lang added, and are generally considered a sound option for maintaining a city’s financial health. The council recently created a committee of citizens to study the feasibility of holding a bond election.

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

New rock-climbing center OK'd for south Chandler ARIZONAN NEWS STAFF

handler City Council has rezoned land around the municipal airport for the construction of a new indoor rock-climbing gym. Council authorized the amended zoning of an 8-acre parcel near Gilbert and Germann roads to accommodate a 33,000-square-foot recreation center. Arches Climbing and Fitness, a Chandler company formed last year, is spearheading the project and plans to install a climbing wall that will be at least 50 feet tall. Other amenities will include a children’s climbing wall, yoga studio, fitness center, and a courtyard area where climbers can relax and play games. The company also plans to have one wall dedicated to climbers wanting to test their time scaling a 15-meter course. “Arches will provide a community space for climbers in the Chandler region to hang out, make friends, and push their physical abilities in a fun and comfortable environment,” the company

AFTER

The four founders decided in 2013 they wanted to create a space for the climbing community in the East Valley that was unique among recreational facilities. “Our team has designed every aspect of Arches – from the walls to the layout to the programs – with great care and detail and believe we can create something truly special for the community here in Arizona,” the company wrote in documents filed with the city. Arches plans to offer guests either monthly memberships or day passes that will allow them to rent climbing equipment during their stay. The company has already announced a partnership with Rock Solid Climbing, a Tucson-based climbing gym, that would allow The proposed rock-climbing gym in south Chandler, shown in this rendering, still requires other government approvals Arches members to get free monthly before it can be built. (City of Chandler) passes to Rock Solid. Because of the facility’s close proxwrote in planning documents. ing to change the height restrictions for imity to the Chandler Airport, the comThe company had to seek approval buildings in the area. pany had to seek clearance from the Airfrom the city to revise the land’s zonThe city Planning and Zoning Depart- port Commission to ensure its 65-foot ment determined the company’s request building wouldn’t interfere with local complied with the city’s General Plan flight traffic. and encouraged council approval. The commission unanimously ruled Although company officials did not in July the project wouldn’t conflict with return a call for comment, their website the airport’s operations. states the facility plans to start hiring “Based on the maximum allowable employees later this fall. building heights, the proposed develop“We strive to be the home base for the ment does not appear to pose a hazard BEFORE Arizona climbing community by providing to flight safety or be an airspace obstruca fun, comfortable, and inspiring environ- tion,” a commission memo states. ment for everyone in our sport,” it states. Prior to obtaining a building permit, Arches was founded by four friends the company will have to obtain approvand climbing enthusiasts who have al from the Federal Aviation Administraspent years scaling the rocky crags of tion that the project won’t pose a hazard rural Arizona. to the airport.

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CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

Police arrest Chandler man with molestation history BY KEVIN REAGAN Arizonan Staff Writer

Chandler man with a history of molesting and exploiting young women is facing more felony charges after authorities uncovered evidence suggesting there may be more girls who have fallen victim to his alleged schemes. Devon Sharma, 26, was awaiting this month on sex trafficking charges when Chandler Police filed additional charges, accusing the defendant of harassing and victimizing more women over the internet. On Feb. 29, Sharma allegedly began corresponding with a 15-year-old girl in Utah and soliciting her for nude images. The suspect allegedly disguised himself as women from modeling agencies on social media accounts, police reports say, in order to gain the trust of unsuspecting teenage girls. On March 2 – two days after Sharma allegedly started contacting the Utah girl – the suspect signed a plea agree-

Devon Sharma ment for similar criminal charges filed by Chandler Police in 2018. A county grand jury had indicted Sharma with sex trafficking, sexual assault, fraud, and computer tampering for offenses committed against a woman between 2013 and 2016.

Some offenses were high-level felonies that carried lengthy prison terms lasting as long as 10 years. But the County Attorney offered Sharma a plea deal that would have guaranteed a much lighter penalty. According to the deal signed by Sharma in March, the defendant agreed to plead guilty to sex trafficking and attempted sexual assault in exchange for a six-month jail sentence and lifetime supervised probation. He would also have to register as a sex offender. It’s not clear whether prosecutors may attempt to rescind Sharma’s plea deal after reviewing the latest criminal charges. The County Attorney did not immediately respond to questions about his status. Sharma has been the subject of criminal investigations since he was a teenager attending Mesquite High School in Gilbert. Court records show Sharma was disciplined by school administrators in 2011 after he allegedly sent sexually-explicit messages to his female classmates. He asked to interview girls about their sex lives and “dirty” thoughts for a book

project. Gilbert Police later discovered a manuscript Sharma titled “The Book of Love,” which he said was “meant to help other teenagers discuss sex and related topics,” police said. A few months later, four teenage girls told authorities Sharma massaged and groped them in one of their school’s locker rooms. The girls claimed Sharma told them he was studying to become a massage therapist and asked to practice his skills. One girl said Sharma asked her to remove her pants so he could massage her back and legs. Another girl alleged Sharma unhooked her bra and massaged her breasts before she fled the locker room, court records show. Sharma, then 18, was charged with multiple felony counts of child molestation and sexual abuse and faced a lengthy prison term because of the victims’ ages. Sharma later pleaded guilty to a lesser

see SHARMA page 19

THE GENERAL ELECTION IS NOVEMBER 3 Citizens Clean Elections Commission is your unbiased source for all 2020 elections. Find important deadlines, candidate info, voting locations and more voter details at AZCleanElections.gov/general, or call 877-631-8891 for more information. 22019-27-12_CCEC_ElectionEducation_EastValleyTribune_10x4-9.indd 1

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13 CITY NEWS

Mesa slaying underscores rise in domestic violence BY JIM WALSH Arizonan Staff Writer

anell Mora accomplished many things in her life. She gave birth to two boys, earned two master’s degrees and represented Arizona State University on student recruiting conferences in China and other countries. But in the end, all Mora, 40, wanted was peace and safety for her two children and herself. After her marriage to Stephen Mora soured, she thought she had made arrangements to end the relationship amicably and had a meeting set up with Steve on Sept. 28. The meeting never happened. Instead, the Scottsdale Realtor, 53, is suspected of fatally shooting his wife of three years and four months on Sept. 26 as she jogged near her Mesa home at Power Road and the Loop 202, leaving her in the road. Mora then drove to the Mesa Police Department’s downtown headquarters, where he shot himself in the head in his vehicle. He remains in the hospital in critical condition. Detective Nik Rasheta, a Mesa police spokesman, said officers responded to a reported shooting in the 3100 block of N. Power Road “and located Janell Mora deceased on the roadway,’’ with witnesses present. “The suspect fled the scene and called 911 to say he shot his wife and was now suicidal. He stated he was at the police station and when officers arrived at the Main Police Headquarters, they heard a single gunshot and then observed Stephen exit the vehicle bleeding profusely from a head injury.’’ Mora is expected to face homicide charges if he survives. “She was out for a jog. He ambushed her,’’ said Amy Hall, Janell’s sister. “They were going to get together and sign some documents in a couple days. She was trying to escape the situation.’’ Hall said her sister was a devoted mother of her two boys, 8 and 9, from a previous marriage. She said Janell’s motivation was to protect her children and herself from Mora after the marriage un-

Stephen Mora

Janell Mora

raveled, though she declined to elaborate. The couple met on the dating app Tinder in early 2016, about two years after Janell's divorce from her first husband. They married on April 26, 2017 – 10 months after Stephen Mora got divorced. At the time they were married, Janelle posted numerous pictures of their wedding, writing, “I married the most charming, kind-hearted, loving, supportive, family-oriented, handsome, hilarious and FUN man I’ve ever known." It’s unknown how long Janell and Stephen had been living apart before he apparently decided to take his wife’s life and attempt a murder-suicide, Hall said. “They had an agreement to mutually separate. They were going to meet,’’ Hall said. “She was smart. She was trying to get away. She was trying to get out.’’ Janell’s slaying was one of two fatal domestic violence cases in the Valley last weekend. The morning after her slaying, a Laveen woman was killed by her husband only a few minutes after police had left her home. They had answered her 911 call about her husband but he had fled by the time the officers arrived. They told her how to file for a protection from abuse order and left. Minutes later her husband returned, shot her and then killed himself. The two slayings occurred only a few days before the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, an annual effort in October that spotlights a chronic problem that has become worse during the pandemic. The month is devoted to educating the public about domestic violence, encour-

aging people – mostly women – to leave abusive relationships and raising money to support shelters and other services focused on saving lives. But the pandemic has given special significance to those activities. In the East Valley and elsewhere, social service agencies say the problem has been inflamed by the social isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and

the recession it ignited, increasing financial pressures as jobs vanished. With more people working from home, there are fewer opportunities for survivors to escape, for intervention by friends and employers who might notice bruises, for family members to visit and notice something is wrong with a relationship, or even for a survivor to report abuse without an abuser overhearing the conversation. Gordon Sims, director of philanthropy for Phoenix Sojourner Center, said Janell Mora’s murder is tragic but not surprising. “People sometimes believe the myth of anger and being out of control. Domestic violence is actually about control,’’ Sims said. “The ultimate form of control is murder. If they can’t have them, nobody can.’’ Domestic violence also cuts across all socio-economic segments of society, he said. “All of us as Americans say, ‘that will never happen to me,’’’ Sims said.

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15 CITY NEWS

DOMESTIC from page 13

cities around the state and nation have noted an increase in domestic violence reports. Between March and August, Chandler police responded to 2,782 domestic disturbance/fight calls in 2020 – a period spanning the onslaught of the pandemic to the latest month statistics are available. In contrast, there were 2,536 such calls during the same period in 2019. In a report to the Phoenix City Council, Phoenix police noted a spike in domestic violence- related calls during the first six months of 2020, including an 11.5 percent increase in dispatched calls, a 31 percent increase in incident reports, a 27 percent increase in arrests, a 34.8 percent increase in aggravated assaults and a 20.7 percent increase in criminal damage. Through the end of August, the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence had recorded 73 domestic violence slayings statewide this year, compared to 63 through the same period in 2019. Coalition CEO Jenna Panas said domestic violence homicides are 16 percent higher this year. She said the coalition noticed a decline during the

But that attitude is a misconception. “They believe that because they are educated,” he said, “they are not susceptible to it.’’ He said the breakup of a marriage in an abusive relationship is always dangerous and that Janell did nothing wrong. “So many times, the women we work with have done everything they are supposed to do. So many times, the abuser seems to get wind of it,’’ Sims said. He said all Maricopa County shelters are full, not only because of demand during a stressed time, but because social distancing requirements forced to a reduction in capacity. That eventually impacts funding, with the state Department of Economic Security reimbursing shelters only for beds used. Laura Bode, director of community engagement for A New Leaf, a multi-faceted Mesa social service agency, said hotlines operated by her agency get 16,000 domestic violence calls a year. A New Leaf’s Autumn House shelter in Mesa provided a safe haven for 155 women last year, while Faith House in Glendale provided shelter for another 255.

Another 388 survivors took refuge in a hotel that serves as an overflow shelter when necessary through the DV Stop program. And that was before the pandemic increased stress in households, isolation of victims and aggravated an already serious problem, Bode said. She said A New Leaf is receiving more new calls and reports of more severe threats. “We have more callers who say, ‘he’s starting to get violent. I’m really scared for my life. Please help me,’’’ she said. She said some callers are whispering, “hiding in a bedroom, trying to call for help’’ in the hopes their abuser won’t hear their pleas for help. Bode said the opportunities for women to escape from abuse are less frequent, with both the abuser and the survivor working from home. The abuse can also be harder for friends and family members to spot. “The victims aren’t getting out and accessing their normal safety network,’’ Bode said. “Sometimes, it’s work colleagues who will see the bruises’’ and ask if something is going on at home. Police in Phoenix, Chandler and other

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early stages of COVID in women seeking shelter, probably because of confusion about whether shelters were open. No shelters closed during the pandemic. “Most of our shelters, while they may have reduced capacity, we’re not turning people away,’’ Panas said. Janice Podzimek, interpersonal violence liaison with Brain Injury Alliance of Arizona, said it is “a grave concern’’ that victims in Mesa may not be reporting incidents of domestic violence because they fear it will trigger an attack. “It’s every aspect of their life that is controlled and manipulated,’’ she said. Normally, a survivor might have an opportunity to escape while her abuser is at work or leaving the house for another reason. For Podzimek, who is an abuse survivor, her opening came when her then-husband was arrested by police. “My abuser was put in jail. That gave me two or three days to gather my things, pack my car and get out of dodge,’’ she said. When survivors get to a shelter, they should be assessed for potential traumatic brain injury, a problem that can be caused by repeated beatings, but is sometimes

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CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

Kyrene board candidates discuss more issues

his is the second and last installment of questionnaires that the Arizonan sent to the five candidates for the Kyrene School District

IVAN ALFARO What is the biggest challenge confronting the district that must be addressed within the next two years and how would you propose addressing that challenge? I believe education funding is the biggest challenge confronting Kyrene. Because of the decrease in tax revenue (sales/income) Kyrene will face a shortage in funding based on proposed state budget cuts. State and district leaders should ensure that any cuts made to education do not fall disproportionately on our high-need student groups. I also believe that limited education dollars should only be invested in programs that improve student outcomes. If funding became a critical issue for the district, would you be more in-

MICHELLE FAHY What is the biggest challenge confronting the district that must be addressed within the next two years and how would you propose addressing that challenge? The biggest challenge is to provide quality educational opportunities during the COVID-19 pandemic. We must use data to prioritize the health and safety of students and staff. Mitigation strategies must be in place and improved/perfected before all students can return safely. We must find ways to address and prevent gaps in learning that may occur during times of school closure. If funding became a critical issue for the district, would you be more inclined to cut programs or raise taxes? WANDA KOLOMYJEC What is the biggest challenge confronting the district that must be addressed within the next two years and how would

Governing Board. Three seats are up for election Nov. 3, with incumbent Michelle Fahy seeking a second term and four newcomers in the mix. Two board

members are retiring. They are board President Michael Myrick, who is seeking a seat on the Tempe Union High School District Governing Board, and

John King, who is wretiring. The question below about Superintendent Jan Vesely was answered before her retirement announcement.

contract, I would certainly consider that, along with the wishes of the board. What one area is the district not addressing adequately and what would you do about it? We have great inequities when it comes to access to technology and internet services. Kyrene is moving closer to 1:1 during this pandemic but access to the internet is still a challenge for many families. We need to teach all students to use technology and so we need to find ways to ensure all students have access to the internet. What is the one area the district is addressing in an exceptional manner and why do you think that? Kyrene makes decisions based on its vision to provide excellent educational opportunities for all students to achieve to their maximum potential to become the

problem solvers, creators and visionaries of tomorrow. They show commitment to their mission of student success for all, by providing engaging, challenging educational environments which promote and inspire passion for learning, leading, and achieving transformative life outcomes. What three accomplishments as a board member are you proudest off? I worked with fellow board members to create a clear mission and vision for the District. I have worked with fellow board members to approve the purchase of a variety of curricular resources to replace very outdated ones and approved the purchase of resources and professional development on equity. I have encouraged the District to focus on equity and increased transparency and accountability.

clined to cut programs or raise taxes? If Arizona has to cut education funding, they should provide Kyrene with greater flexibility in how we spend our dollars. State and district leaders should ensure that any cuts made to education do not fall disproportionately on high-need student groups. Knowing what you know now, would you vote to extend Dr. Vesely’s contract beyond June 2021 or buy it out? Yes. Dr. Vesely has been a consistent leader since the start of her tenure. Dr. Vesely and her cabinet executed on a vision that created layered plans, with flexible options that met individual family circumstances, along with responsive contingencies addressing a variety of scenarios or changing guidelines the ADHS and the Governor’s Office established. Dr. Vesely and her cabinet also developed flexibility in planning for a safe return to

school based on medical expertise and science, not on politics or popular opinion. What one area is the district not addressing adequately and what would you do about it? One area the district is not addressing adequately is the advancement of innovative learning environments within our districts. I believe the advancement in social practices of teaching and learning and the use of learning spaces and technologies is the most effective way to prepare our learners for a global economy. What is the one area the district is addressing in an exceptional manner and why do you think that? One area the district is addressing in an exceptional manner is the active, continuous improvement and progress of our five-year Strategic Plan. Two areas that stand out are the performance and outcomes of learners (high-performing

you propose addressing that challenge? The continued threats to properly fund public education will be the biggest challenge facing the district. The expenses incurred and loss of state revenue due

to COVID-19 will present unprecedented difficulties. I plan to support leaders who value public education as the pillar of democracy it represents and to use my business skills to help navigate through the challenge?

I will continue to advocate at the state level to restore funding so we can provide the programs and services our students deserve without relying on bonds and overrides from our communities. A comprehensive state-wide funding strategy is preferable and more equitable. We constantly face difficult decisions to choose one program or purchase over another. Knowing what you know now, would you vote to extend Dr. Vesely’s contract beyond June 2021 or buy it out? Dr. Vesely and her team have worked hard to build opportunities for increased staff and community involvement in Kyrene and have done an excellent job during this pandemic to provide quality instruction and meet the varying needs of our students while also providing a safe and healthy environment for all. If Dr. Vesely were interested in extending her

students) and the flexibility and design approach addressing COVID-19 learning environments (responsive organization). Our current administration’s ability to not only be thought leaders but execute tactically and extend parental options in learning modalities (KOA, Flex, and Inperson) is to be commended. In what three areas has the current board not met your expectations and what would you do differently? One area the current board has not met my expectations is that of culture, mutual respect, and the honoring of divergent opinions. I believe the best way to succeed as a board is to practice collaboration and respect (please note, collaboration and respect don’t mean consensus). However, our school board must establish a model of collegiality and collaboration that builds confidence across the Kyrene community.

If funding became a critical issue for the district, would you be more inclined to cut programs or raise taxes? Since the 2008 recession,

see CANDIDATES page 17

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

CANDIDATES from page 16

schools have been trying to recover financially. Teachers are reaching in their own pockets to purchase supplies for their students. The state has a teacher shortage and are challenged to retain the teachers we do have. I believe that we should support our schools better financially. I support Save Our Schools initiative to help accomplish this. Knowing what you know now, would you vote to extend Dr. Vesely’s contract beyond June 2021 or buy it out?

Absolutely I would extend Dr. Vesely’s contract. She is smart and she cares deeply about children getting an excellent education. Also, she has proven to be an unwavering leader during this difficult pandemic. What one area is the district not addressing adequately and what would you do about it? Community members have expressed concern their neighborhood school may lack needed programs. This concerns me. If the schools were adequately funded, all the schools in the district would

provide the programs needed. This will always be my focus: to get school funding back to levels that provide needed resources to all schools. What is the one area the district is addressing in an exceptional manner and why do you think that? Kyrene’s population is diversifying and educators often come to the job with little training in cultural and socioeconomic differences. Teachers have expressed to me a strong desire to be the best advocate they can be for all their students. I am pleased to see the district

begin to address this issue with equity training. In what three areas has the current board not met your expectations and what would you do differently? I have been very impressed with the current school board. With few exceptions, they seem to work together well towards the common goal of providing excellent guidance to make Kyrene the best it can be for the community. I believe that my experience and skills can help Kyrene’s continued mission of providing excellent education for all.

TRINÉ NELSON What is the biggest challenge confronting the district that must be addressed within the next two years and how would you propose addressing that challenge? We need to look at potential funding challenges within the next two years due to a loss of revenue from the state. Kyrene, like many other Arizona districts, has been tasked with doing more with less. Funding shortages impact our ability to provide quality education to all students and to attract, and retain, quality educators. If funding became a critical issue for the district, would you be more inclined to cut programs or raise taxes? When faced with these decisions in the

past, the community has been very generous and voted to approve bonds and overrides to avoid the loss of critical programming. Ultimately, if voters did not approve similar measures in the future, it would be up to the governing board to examine the budgets and find cost-saving areas that would have the least amount of impact on the quality education offered to students. Knowing what you know now, would you vote to extend Dr. Vesely’s contract beyond June 2021 or buy it out? Dr. Vesely has provided a steady hand in a continually changing circumstances. She has worked, in concert with the governing board and administration, to address the independent audit findings through strategic planning. If she wanted to extend her contract beyond June 2021, I would vote to extend her time with Kyrene.

What one area is the district not addressing adequately and what would you do about it? The district has done a good job communicating to the community about COVID-19 impacts. I would like to see this model of communication followed in other areas. One example would be around the equity work within the district. While the work being done is vital, there is a lot of misunderstanding within the community about how success will be measured and what it entails for staff and specific school sites. What is the one area the district is addressing in an exceptional manner and why do you think that? I have been impressed with Kyrene’s response to COVID-19. From the creation of Kyrene Digital Academy to the recent decision to purchase HEPA filters for class-

rooms. Kyrene has been responsive to the needs of the community while adhering to data, not political pressure. …We’ve seen Kyrene mobilize to provide meals to the community throughout the school closures and facilitate laptop distributions to over 12,000 students, In what three areas has the current board not met your expectations and what would you do differently? One need is to have greater transparency with the community on board actions. Having a unified board voice that provides communication to the community about upcoming study sessions or votes would allow greater insight into pressing district issues. While the board agenda is available prior to the meeting publicizing the information on different platforms might reach more of the community.

MARGARET WRIGHT What is the biggest challenge confronting the district that must be addressed within the next two years and how would you propose addressing that challenge? Our comprehensive audit illuminated Kyrene’s strengths and weaknesses. Recent school closures have provided obstacles against the implementation of our strategic plan. Getting back on track with our five goal categories and communicating that progress will be my focus. This essential work needs to continue with our RISE UP schools, equity initiatives and efforts to close the achievement and discipline gaps. If funding became a critical issue for the district, would you be more in-

clined to cut programs or raise taxes? The power to fund schools through taxes rests with the voters and their elected legislators. We are fortunate that our community consistently funds Kyrene with bonds and overrides. The critical issue is the wise management of school funds by the governing board. I will analyze budget priorities to keep money where it will most effectively benefit students. Knowing what you know now, would you vote to extend Dr. Vesely’s contract beyond June 2021 or buy it out? Kyrene has excellent leadership in Dr. Vesely, her cabinet and the leaders she has placed at each school. Throughout the pandemic Dr. Vesely has been proactive and transparent in addressing needed policy changes. Kyrene’s position as one of Arizona’s leading public school

districts is only possible with a highly skilled superintendent. Yes, I would extend Dr. Vesely’s contract. What one area is the district not addressing adequately and what would you do about it? For my family, the district is addressing all of our needs. Meeting the needs of 16,000 students is a formidable task and if this isn’t the case for your family, I want to hear about what is missing for you. We can set the example for our children and use our words to communicate with respect and kindness. What is the one area the district is addressing in an exceptional manner and why do you think that? Kyrene has extraordinary school choice opportunities for families. Leadership programs, Dual Language, International Baccalaureate, Traditional

Academy, Fine Arts, Gifted and SPARK show the great efforts Kyrene makes to meet the needs of students. These programs are run by exceptional educators that inspire the unique talents of their students. Kyrene produces students that are learning, achieving and leading. In what three areas has the current board not met your expectations and what would you do differently? I would encourage greater civility among board members, district leadership and the community. The non-partisan nature of this elected office is a powerful tool that should be used in community outreach. Board members need to embrace their role as ambassadors for public education and reach across political and social divides for the benefit of our children and their public education.

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

DOMESTIC from page 15

overlooked because it is invisible, she said. It’s an ugly side of life that seems to stand in sharp contrast with Janell Mora, who was described in a series of condolences left on her obituary through Beard’s Funeral Chapel in her native Fayetteville, Arkansas, as a ray of sunshine, a positive person who loved her children. Many of them worked with Mora during her more than 15 -year career at Arizona State University, where she most recently served as associate director of Global Career Initiatives until 2018, when she took a job recruiting Master’s in Business Administration students for internships and full-time positions with Cognizant, a professional services company. “Janell was a treasured member of the W. P. Carey School of Business family at ASU. First as staff, then student, then alumna. We are collectively grieving her loss and a life ended far too soon. Our deepest sympathy for all her family and friends,’’ wrote Dean Amy Hillman. Cindy Parnell, ASU’s dean of career and professional development services, also wrote that she has fond memories of Mora. “Janell brought so much beauty to ev-

A memorial for Janell Mora popped up at the scene where she was gunned down while jogging. (Special)

eryday life. She was a kind soul, strong woman, loving mom, and amazing professional. I loved working with Janell. Her energy was contagious. I’ll remember Janell for so many things, but most of all, her positive spirit and generous heart. Your ASU family will miss you, Janell,’’ Parnell wrote. Hall and other family members came to Mesa and established a memorial for Mora, near the place where she was shot, after receiving numerous condolences from friends. A celebration of Mora’s life is scheduled for Oct. 7 in Arkansas and a GoFundMe account was set up for Mora’s sons that can be found by searching under “trust fund for Brighton and Owen McClelland.” “She will not be forgotten. I know that for sure. She was too important to people,’’ Hall said. “She did not deserve this as no one deserves this.’’ Hall said she is hopeful that her sister’s death will encourage domestic violence victims to seek help and escape from their abusers during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. “Domestic violence is not right. We all know that,’’ Hall said.

A New Leaf’s hotline number is 1-800-SAFEDVS, or 1-800-723-3387. Pledge Purple at Home, a digital education session about domestic violence and fundraiser, is scheduled for Oct. 29. For more information, go to turnanewleaf.org Funeral services for Janell are set for Wednesday in Arkansas, where she will be buried under her maiden name.

YOUR GUIDE TO VOTING INFORMED. Read candidate statements and find out when and where to vote with the Citizens Clean Elections Commission Voter Education Guide. Look for it in the mail by October 6 or find it online at azcleanelections.gov/guide. The guide is also available in Navajo, ASL (American Sign Language), large print, HTML/screen reader and as an audio version. For more information, call 877-631-8891. 22027-32-11_CCEC_VoterGuide_EastValleyTribune_10x4-9.indd 1

9/3/20 2:23 PM

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

RENTALS from page 4

could be fined with $500 for the first offense, $1,000 for the second offense, and $1,500 for a third offense committed within a one-year period. A property owner who commits more than three violations within a 24-month span could be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor offense. The topic of short-term rentals seems to be popular among Chandler residents since the city received more than 150 comments over the last couple months regarding its new code regulations. According to city documents, a major-

SHARMA from page 12

offense of aggravated assault and was sentenced to three years of probation. Before his sentencing, the defendant’s family and friends tried convincing the court Sharma was a well-behaved, caring person who made a mistake that was out of character. They told the judge about Sharma’s excellent academic record, volunteerism and struggles overcoming his diagnosed mental illness.

ity of commenters supported the code amendments and some felt the new rules weren’t strict enough and needed harsher penalties. The city’s restricted by state law with how regulatory it wishes to be in regard to short-term rentals. Councilman Matt Orlando welcomed the additional layer of accountability for property owners and hopes the code amendments offer some ease to concerned neighbors. He said he knows of at least two shortterm rentals located within his own neighborhood and has had both good and bad experiences with the homeowners.

Sharma had just been accepted into an internship program at Intel, his family told the court, and was excelling in all his courses at Arizona State University. Court officials found Sharma’s actions at Mesquite High disturbing, yet recommended he only get probation due to his young age and positive character. “Although the offense itself is quite concerning,” probation officers wrote before Sharma’s sentencing, “the defendant is a medium-low risk and his lack of prior criminal history suggests he is

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19 CITY NEWS

One owner is responsible and responsive, Orlando said, but the other has drawn several complaints that required visits by police. The city’s codes seem balanced enough to manage the properties in need of some regulation, Orlando added, while still allowing police officers and code inspectors some latitude on how and when to enforce the rules. “I think this is a fair ordinance that will help us educate, but then again have a little teeth in it for those bad actors,” he said. The registration system put in place by the code amendments could addi-

an appropriate candidate for probation supervision.” One year into his probation term, Sharma’s officer asked the court to terminate his probation early because of his low risk to reoffend and high level of compliance. The court concluded Sharma’s probation in June 2015. One year later, Sharma was accused of extortion, sex trafficking, and fraud. Sharma’s most recent criminal case involves 20 felony charges of sex trafficking, identity theft, pandering, unlawful

tionally help the city count how much tax revenue is being generated locally by Chandler’s rental homes. Dawn Lang, the city’s management services director, said Chandler currently can’t be sure how much in taxes is being collected from short-term rentals because the city has never had a formal database listing all of these properties. “I think with this mechanism in place, we’ll be able to better track from a revenue standpoint,” she said. Council must vote on the ordinance again in October. If approved, the new code regulations will go into effect 30 days after the council’s second vote.

distribution of images, and luring a minor for exploitation. One victim in the recent case claims Sharma never paid her the money he promised if she sent him nude images. The girl further accused Sharma of threatening to post her pictures online if she didn’t continue sending him pornographic content, according to police reports. Chandler Police believe there may be more women who have been exploited by Sharma. Anyone with information on the defendant can call 480-782-4402.

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THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

Vesely to retire as Kyrene schools superintendent BY PAUL MARYNIAK Arizonan Executive Editor

yrene School District Superintendent Jan Vesely is retiring at the end of the school year. In making her surprise announcement last Friday, Vesely noted that with a new Governing Board coming into office in January, this was a good time to begin a new chapter in her life. “After 43 wonderful years in public education, I have made the difficult decision to retire at the end of the 2020 calendar year,” she said in her statement. “With new members joining the Kyrene Governing Board in January, it would be appropriate for a new superintendent to begin this important journey alongside the newly configured board. The board is engaged in the planning stages of a search for Kyrene’s next superintendent, and I have no doubt this board will select someone exceptional for the role.” Vesely took over Kyrene’s top administrative job in July 2016 after spending a little more than four years as deputy superintendent of the Sunnyside Unified School District in Tucson. She also had been assistant superintendent at Sunnyside from 2006-09 but left for four years to work as senior vice president for an educational services company. She also worked for another education services company before that and also was a principal and a teacher at various points in her career. As Kyrene superintendent, Vesely led the district through a number of changes that included the introduction of an International Baccalaureate program at Kyrene Middle School, the introduction of a broad equity program to address disparities in achievement and discipline among children of color, the introduction of a Mandarin language program, among many others. She also actively pursued the development and leadership of a number of

t? o G ws Ne

Jan Vesely stakeholder groups that involved businesses, parents and even one with student representatives from all 25 of the district’s campuses. She also provided guidance for the district’s successful budget override campaign in 2017. Under Vesely’s leadership, Kyrene’s $705 per-pupil cost of administration was lower than the state average and

But perhaps one of the biggest challenges of her career came this year when COVID-19 throttled the nation and forced the prolonged closure of schools across Arizona and the country. Vesely was one of the first two superintendents to close campuses in March, several days before the governor order a statewide shutdown. After that, she oversaw the quick pivot to an online learning program for the rest of the 201920 school year and then led the development of elaborate safety and learning efforts as the pandemic loomed over the start of the current school year. While supervising the development of a variety of safety protocols to protect students and staff once classrooms reopened, Vesely also oversaw the development of a more thorough online

It was important to me to see the safe return of our “ students to schools before confirming a big decision. ”

– Jan Vesely

the $887 spent by districts of comparable size and it consistently devoted more money to the classroom than the statewide average for all school systems in Arizona. And under Vesely’s leadership, the district’s overall achievement scores improved to the point where the district gained stature for its academic programs and accomplishments.

learning program. She also started the Kyrene Digital Academy, which enabled students from anyone in Arizona to enroll in a learning program that was unique to Kyrene and mirrored what students would be learning in classrooms. About 20 percent of the district’s 16,000 students enrolled in the academy. Vesely also guided the district into a “rolling reopening” of schools, with K-2

students returning several weeks ago, followed by students in grades 3-5. Middle schools welcomed sixth graders back into classrooms last Thursday and students in grades 7-8 can return Oct. 13. Vesely took note of that reopening in her announcement last Friday. With the reopening of classrooms, she noted, “Kyrene will then have children in every grade level, in every learning module: In Person Learning, Flex Distance Learning, and full-time online through Kyrene Digital Academy. “This is the vision of safety and choice that hundreds of Kyrene educators, leaders and staff worked tirelessly to create.” “It was important to me to see the safe return of our students to schools before confirming a big decision,” Vesely said, adding she had decided to retire “with deep emotion.” Citing “43 wonderful years in public education,” she said “it would be appropriate” for a new superintendent to begin working with a reconstituted governing board. At least two new members will join the board with the retirement of Michael Myrick and John King. Incumbent Michelle Fahy is seeking a second term in the Nov. 3 election. Four newcomers also are vying for one of the three seats up for election. Ironically, all five candidates indicated they would like to keep Vesely, who was given a three-year extension in her contract earlier this year by the current board. “The board is engaged in the planning stages of a search for Kyrene’s next superintendent, and I have no doubt this board will select someone exceptional for the role,” she said in her announcement. Typical of her habit to deflect any praise for her efforts and credit the people around her, Vesely also praised Kyrene teachers and staff, stating “This is an incredible district full of bright, talented, passionate professionals.”

Contact Contact Paul Paul Maryniak Maryniak at at 480-898-5647 or or pmaryniak@timespublications.com pmaryniak@timespublications.com

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

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Chandler journalist publishes first novel BY PAUL MARYNIAK Arizonan Executive Editor

s a journalist for several decades, Srianthi Perera has chronicled everything from breaking news stories to people profiles to local events – many of them in recent years in the East Valley. Now, the Chandler writer has expanded her repertoire to include fiction with her newly published novel, “A Maiden’s Prayer: A Family Story Based in 1970s Sri Lanka.” Set in the 1970s in the Southeast Asian tropical island of her native Sri Lanka, Perera’ novel centers around Berty Rajakaruna, a Jane Austen-type of bachelor, trying to figure out whether marriage is worth the effort to reclaim his family estate from the clutches of a scheming sister. The estate is crumbling but special

Chandler resident Srianthi Perera has been writing news and feature stories for years but now she has turned her talents to fiction as well, debuting her first novel. (Special to the Arizonan)

to Berty because it was founded by his great-great-grandfather, who was a Mudaliyar – comparable to a country squire – under British rule. The story is told through the eyes and voice of a 12-year-old girl who is rebelling against the traditions she has to follow. It is set in the 1970s, a turbulent period in Sri Lanka’s history with a socialist ruling party whose policies resulted in food shortages and a soaring cost of living. The novel also opens readers to the little known Sri Lankan culture and society, woven together by the thread of Berty’s life. It also examines Sri Lankan beliefs in the power of Vedic astrology and the role an individual’s character plays in precipitating his karma. Astrology was

see PERERA page 26

Chandler author, photographer explore grave matter BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

ou can walk through an old cemetery and find history in every direction, stumble upon sad sentiments on gravestones that suggest an even sadder end and mourn some sites for being allowed to fall into disrepair from neglect. First-time Chandler Ranch author Heather Moulton and Gold Canyon photographer Susan Tatterson do all three with their new book, “Graveyards of the Wild West: Arizona.” Published by Arcadia Press/History Through Time Publishers, the book walks readers through some of the discoveries the pair made as they visited 15 historic cemeteries in the state, assembling individual chapters on six, pairing

Chandler resident Heather Moulton, right, and Gold Canyon photographer Susan Tatterson, above, teamed up to do a book looking at Arizona’s graveyards. (Susan Tatterson/Special to the Arizonan)

two in Florence in another chapter and then devoting an eighth chapter to “col-

orful characters” whose final resting places are in various grave-

yards. Moulton, professor of English and literature at Central Arizona College since 2005, and Tatterson, professor of digital media at Central Arizona since 2013, started their tour at Yuma Pioneer Cemetery in March 2019, finishing their tour around the state last November. They deliberately use “graveyard” rather than “cemetery” to describe the places they visited because the former “connotes more history,” Moulton said. “It feels ‘old-timey’ and maybe a bit rough around the edges, just like the Wild West,”

see AUTHOR page 24

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

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Chandler teen has advanced through an international competition for aspiring filmmakers and science enthusiasts. Abbie Jin, 17, was recently named one of 30 semifinalists out of a pool of 5,600 applicants from all over the world who are vying to win $400,000 for threeminute videos they produced themselves on the scientific topic of their own choosing. The Hamilton High School senior developed a short film exploring the emerging research in RNA-based vaccines – a field of science that recently has received more attention as scientists scramble to produce a new vaccine to combat the COVID-19 virus. Abbie said she had read about scientists struggling to quickly find a vaccine for the virus and was curious to learn more about the experimental RNAbased vaccines. “I was really inspired to share more about this topic since it was so pertinent to our current situation,” she said. Unlike modern vaccines, which inject an antigen into the human body to strengthen the immune system, a RNAbased vaccine provides genetic information that would instruct the body how to

produce antigens naturally. According to Harvard medical researchers, RNA-based vaccines are believed to offer a relatively simple and rapid solution to unpredictable, rapidly evolving pathogens. There are many benefits to utilizing RNA-based vaccines compared to the traditional ones, Abbie noted, so she thought it seemed like a topic that warranted greater attention through the format of a three-minute web video. Around the time the pandemic started shutting down schools back in March, a friend informed Abbie about an annual video competition hosted by the Breakthrough Prize, an organization co-founded by Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg, that allows students to creatively explain a scientific concept they’re passionate about. Thousands of teenagers submit short science-themed videos to the Breakthrough Prize each year in an attempt to win $250,000 in scholarships. The competition’s sole victor also wins a state-of-the-art laboratory – valued at $100,000 – for their school and $50,000 for one of their teachers. Abbie has already selected Tom McKinley, her calculus teacher at Hamilton High, to receive the cash prize if

see SCIENCE page 26

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she explained. Moulton credits her mother Nancy Moulton for the inspiration to write the book. “She’s a historical romance author and she would stop by cemeteries to look at headstones for the names – old cemeteries have some of the best names made for excellent characters in books,” Moulton explained. “My mom also always loved westerns and I think that influenced my on-going fascination with the Wild West.” Tatterson had some experience and fascination with old graveyards from growing up on the east coast as well as from collecting material for the books that she has published with Arcadia for its Abandoned Union series – “Abandoned Arizona, Ghost Towns & Legends,” “Abandoned New Mexico, Enigmas and Endings,” and “Abandoned Maryland, Ruin and Restoration.” When they started out, it was just for fun, Moulton said, as they traveled to abandoned and unusual places in the West. “Then, I kept saying over and over, ‘Can we stop at the cemetery in this old Western town?’ She’s the one who suggested we pitch it as a book idea to Arcadia/History Through Time and they went for it,” Moulton said of Tatterson. They didn’t encounter any grizzled old caretakers at any site they visited, but Moulton said she’s grateful for the individuals from historical societies and others who shared stories that helped give her a verbal framework for the book. “As an academic, I made sure to vet the sites and find accurate and consistent information,” Moulton said. “That’s why my bibliography is so very long.” The duo looked first for pioneer cemeteries “because that would mean older graves and interesting history,” she explained. “Then we looked for – and found – connections between the cemeteries and the legends of the Wild West. “For example, even though only one Earp is buried in Arizona – in Willcox – the impact of the Earp family and their comrades on numerous cemeteries, like Tombstone’s Boot Hill and Prescott’s Pioneers’ Home, cannot be denied.” As for the most interesting graveyards they explored, Moulton said, “as an author and researcher, it’s a tie between

There are hundreds “ of graves but very few

that identify who’s there, It’s tragic when that history – people, really – have been lost.

”

– Susan Tatterson

Tombstone and Pioneers’ Home Cemetery in Prescott. “Both of them offer so much history about Arizona. I went to both as ‘fans’ of the Earps – thanks in large part to the movie ‘Tombstone’ – but after significant research, I was reminded that the concept of ‘heroes’ is, like history, written by the ones still standing after the smoke clears.” Added Tatterson: “As a photographer, Jerome really stayed with me. The views from the cemetery are sensational. As someone fascinated by the settling of the West, probably Tombstone. But it is difficult to pick a favorite as they all featured someone or something memorable.” And they noted that interesting graveyards can be found in the East Valley generally and Chandler specifically. For like-minded explorers, they recommend the Goodyear-Ocotillo Cemetery, around which Fulton Ranch was built. “There are hundreds of graves but very few that identify who’s there,” Tatterson said. “It’s tragic when that history – people, really – have been lost.” They also noted that the City of Mesa Cemetery is “wonderfully historic” – and still in use today – with some notable residents liked country-western singer Waylon Jennings and Mesa’s first African-American doctor, Lucius C. Alston. “Unfortunately, we were limited to 128 pages, so we had to carefully pick and choose the cemeteries to include,” Moulton said. “We’d love to publish another book on graveyards in Arizona because we had to leave more out than we included.” But fear not, because “Graveyards of the Wild West: Arizona” is the first in a series. Their next, “Graveyards of the Wild West: New Mexico,” is being released this week.

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

25 COMMUNITY

Tourney honors Perry athlete who died in May BY ZACH ALVIRA Sports Editor

he inaugural five-day JM23 Classic at Tempe Diablo Stadium went off without a hitch from Sept. 15-19, with a champion crowned on the final day of the tournament. But as exciting as it was for many fans to watch live sports for perhaps the first time in months, that was all secondary to the main goal: honor the legacy of former Perry baseball player Jacob Medina, who died in May at age 19. “Without embracing sadness, you can’t celebrate the joy,” said Emery Miller, Jacob’s longtime friend and organizer of the event. “The people in the ‘Jacob Strong’ family, we’ve embraced a lot of sadness in the last 19 months. But to now be here and see me and Jacob’s vision come to life, it’s beyond words. It gives me goosebumps.” Emery and Miller had come up with the idea of the 24-team tournament in December to raise funds for a family in need. Still in remission at the time from his first battle with leukemia that resulted in a lengthy stay at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Jacob threw out the idea of hosting an entire league to raise more money. “This is classic Jacob,” said Miller, smiling at his orange “Jacob Strong” bracelet. “He says, ‘I like the idea, but what if you did more?’ I think it goes to show how Jacob was. He wanted to help people by doing it in the very best way possible. But I was like, ‘dude, who is going to run the league? We are all in college.’ “He never settled for good enough. He always wanted perfection, especially when it came to helping others.” As Miller and his non-profit organization, Team Emery, began finalizing plans for the tournament in February, Jacob’s health once again began to decline. He beat leukemia in just 33 days in March 2019. After his physical therapist raised concerns once again a year later in March 2020, tests revealed the cancer had returned, this time at an accelerated

rate. Even then, however, Jacob’s mxindset never changed. He was confident he could beat it. But his parents, Mike and Krystal Medina, said the chemo treatments were too harsh on his organs. Before his passing, Miller decided he wanted all proceeds from the tournament to go toward his family. Additionally, he wanted to honor Mike, Krystal and Jacob’s younger brother, Casey. The three joined Miller on the field the final day of the tournament, just before the championship game between Las Vegas Basic School and Poston Butte. They stood near home plate, where “JM” and “23,” Jacob’s initials and number, were written in white chalk. “The support is just awesome,” Mike said. “It’s been overwhelming. We are going through a pandemic right now, but people here think this is more important than that. I think all of this goes to show how special Jacob was. “People don’t even know him, but they hear his story and they just want to participate.” The three were then gifted a custom blue wooden bat with Jacob’s initials engraved in white. Mariah Meredith, Jacob’s nurse at PCH, presented the gift. “When I got a message asking to come, there was no way I could turn it down,” Meredith said. “I felt very honored and Jacob made me feel like a special person in his life.” Jacob was described as a happy-golucky kid with an infectious smile who loved Air Jordan shoes and helping those in need. Austin Kowalchuk, Kenzie Jones, Abby Cabner and Anthony DeAndrea were some of the many who volunteered to help run the tournament. They recalled on several occasions going to his house when he was battling cancer for the second time. He always appeared strong and told them if they needed anything, he was there. “He always thought of others before himself,” Jones said. “No matter what condition he was in, no matter how he

see TOURNEY page 26

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PERERA from page 22

visa to continue in journalism,” Perera recalled. “I left the job of an assistant editor in an up-market visitor publication called ‘Where Vancouver’ and moved to Rochester, N.Y. in the dead of winter in 1998 with a sliver of an idea taking shape in my mind.” “I set out to find ‘my book’ by volunteering at Writers & Books in Rochester, where I met a community of like-minded individuals who sympathetically steered me toward taking fiction classes,” Perera explained. “I was asked to write about something I know and bring it to class,” she continued. “It wasn’t difficult to find an experience that would be foreign to most Americans. I created Tamara de Silva and followed her coming of age. “My voice took over: I had a few characters and the beginnings of a story. I had no idea what would happen to them as I went along but I had my book.” She found writing fiction “comes naturally to me.” “Nearly all of my previous work at magazines and newspapers pertained to factual news or feature writing but I find it easy to switch back and forth between the two,” she added. Besides, she noted, “I find my newspaper training, where I had to strive to be 100 percent accurate, a boon for writing fiction. Hence, the 1970s life depicted in

the novel – social, cultural, political and otherwise – is not imagined, but a true, nostalgic re-creation.” “A Maiden’s Tale” has also been a long time coming. “Although I got off to a great start and had the steady encouragement of the instructor, there were many subsequent moves within the U.S. for us during that time,” Perera said. “Hence, chapter four, five and six were written in Oregon, seven and eight in Kansas, nine in Virginia and so on. When we settled in Arizona in 2003, I was more than two-thirds done.” She pushed the novel to the background when she “immersed myself in the exciting daily grind of a major newspaper.” But after she retired from fulltime journalism two years ago, she put part of the novelist side of her brain to work. She joined the now defunct south Chandler group called The Serious Scribes, led by Mitzi Kleidon, and “I was inspired to write the last few chapters and conceptualize the difficult ending with the members’ help.” Ironically, the pandemic helped her finished what she started many years ago. “Over the years, I improved the story from time to time but I didn’t pursue publishing it,” Perera said. “Then the pandemic hit and robbed us all of social interaction. It is a great time to publish a novel.” But the journalist side of her creative

soul isn’t completely absent from her work, either. “The main storyline is fictional,” Perea said, “But yes, there are autobiographical elements in the novel. Tamara de Silva came-of-age in 1970s Sri Lanka in the midst of a loving, extended family that organized regular spend-the-days, during which time they collectively hashed out problems and helped each other. This is my personal experience. “Tamara also attended a well-reputed private school in Colombo, just like I did. Many Sri Lankans believe in astrology to guide their lives and my family was no exception.” Now that she’s finished, Perera is hoping readers agree she has realized her philosophy toward novels: “A well-written novel can transport a reader to a different time and place. When the story is written with humor and pathos – true reflections of life – the experience can be even better.” “I did not have a Berty Uncle in the circle, but there are many Berty Uncles in society at any given time in any country,” she said. “A Maiden’s Prayer” is priced at $16 for the paperback and $5 for the e-book and available at amazon.com: tinyurl. com/A-Maidens-Prayer Information: amazon.com/author/srianthiperera or srianthiperera.com

TOURNEY from page 25

notable came from one of his old classmates now enlisted in the military. “He told us he was in his darkest moment but out of the blue, Jacob texted him and said he wanted to check on him and see how he was doing. Jacob was in a hospital bed at the time,” Krystal said.

“He told us Jacob saved him.” Miller and the Medina family believe Jacob made more of an impact in 19 years than many people make over more time. “Jacob was the kind of kid that even though I hung out with him for 19 years, it wasn’t enough time,” said Miller, fight-

ing back tears. “Knowing Jacob was humbling. Knowing him made me a better person. “This event, this is Jacob. This is his community. It takes a special young man to bring this many people together for a great cause.”

SCIENCE from page 23

“It not only combines my interests in science and art -- it also was a really great opportunity for my school,” she said. The student said her school could receive a new science lab that she thinks could get more of her classmates enthused about physics, biology and chemistry. “I think having a lab like this would be really beneficial to a lot of the students.” Abbie said. The 30 semifinalists will have to endure more rounds of voting, evaluations and peer-to-peer assessments before qualifying for the competition’s finalist

round that started Sept. 21. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s challenge included a special category for participants to submit videos exploring topics specifically tied to epidemiology and immunology. “The quality of the videos this year is extremely high,” said Julia Milner, co-founder of the Breakthrough Prize. “It’s really thrilling to see young people communicating these big ideas with such intelligence, as well as freshness and creativity.” Abbie, who is planning to study either business or bioscience in college next year, hopes all the videos submitted in

this year’s competition will encourage her peers to continue their scientific endeavors and spark a greater dialogue about the value of studying STEM topics. Even if her video doesn’t claim the grand prize, she hopes anyone who watches it will be inspired to learn more about how science can be relevant to their daily lives. “I really wanted this video to bring encouragement through the form of education,” she said. “Science can help solve some of our biggest world issues.” Jin’s video can be viewed on the Breakthrough Prize’s Facebook page.

the basis of many arranged marriages of the day. And it also is framed by Buddhist thought, the religion for the vast majority of Sri Lankans, who follow Ahimsa and its principles of nonviolence. “Above all, ‘A Maiden’s Prayer’ speaks to the universality of the human experience. This tiny island in the Indian Ocean is a world apart, but how connected are we in our needs, desires, fears and emotions?” Perera said. Crossing over to the world of fiction might seem unusual for someone who has worked as a journalist in her native Sri Lanka, the Sultanate of Oman, Canada and the United States. If her name sounds familiar, the former Arizona Republic reporter also was a staffer for Times Publications, which publishes the SanTan Sun News. Her byline still appears in the SanTan Sun News and its sister papers in the East Valley as a freelance journalist. But crossing over from the world of nonfiction was not necessarily all that major a transition, Perera said. Indeed, her last boss in Canada told her “There’s a book in you” when Perera told her she was heading to the States. “When I followed my husband from Canada to the U.S., I didn’t have a work

was feeling, it was always about other people before himself.” Jacob’s desire to help others through difficult times never went away, even as he was at his worst. One of the most

she’s selected as the competition’s top winner. McKinley is great at getting his students interested in mathematics and deserves to be recognized for his efforts, she said. Abbie said she spent more than 100 hours researching, editing, animating and crafting together her video to complete in time by the competition’s deadline. It gave the high school student a chance to employ some newfound videography skills while learning more about a complex and timely medical issue.

27 BUSINESS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

Chandler woman cleans up with her business ARIZONAN NEWS STAFF

lga Moya’s story is the kind that would inspire any foreign resident who wants to become an American citizen. But it’s also a story that any native American can look to for inspiration on the value of determination and hard work. Moya came to America from Bogota, Columbia, 28 years ago, eventually settling in 1995 in Chandler, where she lives with her husband Fabio, sons Rowvingson and Brandon and two dogs. This year she is celebrating the 25th anniversary of her business, Alert Cleaning Services, Inc., which cleans both commercial establishments and homes. It’s also a celebration of her achievement of the American Dream. Her road to that dream began six months after starting at cleaning company in 1993 and the owners decided to

MEGAN VOGUS

Olga Moya is celebrating the 25th anniversary of her Chandler residential and commercial cleaning business, Alert Cleaning Services.(Tim Sealy/Sealy Media)

DR. WILLIAM CRAWFORD

DR. KYMBERLY MARSHALL

SHEILA BOYNS

sell the business. “When they notified all their clients of the new changes, a few of them asked the owner if I could continue providing the cleaning for them and without any hesitation, they handed me a few customers in the Sun Lakes area,” Moya recalled. “My boss and clients agreed that I took pride on my work and were confident I would continue exceeding their expectations as a solo cleaner. Here I’m 25 years later.” It wasn’t an easy slide into becoming a small business owner. “I didn’t know the industry or speak English fluently back them,” she said, “Finding the time to educate myself about it and learning the language was a challenge while working on my business, being a mom and a wife. “However, I was determined to do

MARY KAYE ALLEN

My boss and clients “ agreed that I took pride on my work and were confident I would continue exceeding their expectations as a solo cleaner. Here I’m 25 years later.

”

– Olga Moya

it if wanted to take my business to the next level.” Today, she’s built a business that has drawn raves online for Alert’s special rotation system and sanitizing process and

see OLGA page 28

VICTOR SERNA

LT. SHAWN HANCOCK

Chandler Chamber honors local individuals, companies ARIZONAN NEWS STAFF

he format was different but the Chandler Chamber of Commerce kept alive its 33-year-old tradition of honoring individuals and local businesses recently with its annual Community Awards presentation.

Instead of a gala gathering at a local hotel, the Chamber was forced by the pandemic to hold the celebration virtually as it honored six local companies, five educators, two other individuals and Chandler-Gilbert Community college. In addition, the Chandler Chamber Community Foundation awarded a

scholarship to Michael DiMatteo. The fact that participants couldn’t gather in person did not diminish the event’s significance, said Chamber CEO/President Terri Kimble, who told the viewers: “One of my favorite things about Chandler is being the smart city that we are. When adverse conditions arise, we set

the bar higher and reach for the stars.” Presented by Gila River Hotels and Casinos and hosted by ImprovMANIA coowner Dave Specht, the celebration honored the Salt River Project as the Large Business of the Year; AvAir, the Medium

see CHAMBER page 28

BUSINESS

OLGA from page 27

a green cleaning service that uses effective, nontoxic and eco-friendly cleaning products.” “I have hired many cleaners over the years and I must say the quality of cleaning I received from Alert Cleaning was above and beyond any other cleaning I’ve had,” one client wrote. Said another: “We were preparing our home for sale and we needed it to be

CHAMBER from page 27

Business of the Year; Laser Creations, the Small Business of the Year; and NOW Financial, Micro Business of the Year. Dunston Simpson of Cox Business announced the Community Cup award for Chandler-Gilbert Community College, calling it “a resourceful anchor in the community” as a public servant and an academic institution “guided by: innovation, exploration, sustainability, engagement and inclusiveness.” Mary Kaye Allen was awarded the Chamber cup by sponsor Dignity Health, which praised her friendly and helpful demeanor as Chamber’s front-desk recipient. A retired Chandler-Gilbert Community College administrator who helped create the New Adventures in Learning program in Sun Lakes, Allen drew kudos as one of the Chamber’s “mighty pillars.” The Chandler Cup went to the Douglas Allred Company for its partnership with the city. Mayor Kevin Hartke said the company “is “a critical factor in our community’s economic competitiveness” and that one of the reasons behind the city’s job growth is the fact that it “continues to drive opportunities for corporate recruitment.”

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spotless and really shine. Alert Cleaning knocked it out of the park.” Other praised the courteous and friend staff. Now running her own business and employing 12 people, Moya said her big challenges these days involve “business automatization, finding the right tools to make the booking process fast and efficient, reducing email time. “I’m old school so this has been an interesting process,” she joked.

Chandler Police Lt. Shawn Hancock won the James R. Snedigar Public Service Award. John Nissen of sponsor Earnhardt Ford said Hancock, the former president of the Chandler Law Enforcement Association, “is an accomplished instructor and was awarded for advancing the Chandler P.D. training program.” After his promotion to lieutenant in 2014, Hancock launched the Chandler Police Leadership Cohort, “which serves emerging leaders across all City of Chandler departments,” Nissen noted. Hancock also is board chair of ICAN and a member of the Chandler Chamber Community Foundation Leadership Institute. The Business Diversity in Action Award went to Dr. William Crawford of the D.W. Consulting Group. A former Phoenix Police Department employee and Maricopa County Community College District administrator, he is senior vice president of an education services company, a minority-owned firm. He also co-chairs the Chamber’s diversity committee, is president of the Arizona Justice Educators Association, chairs the city’s merit board and is vice chair of city’s retirement boards. The Chamber’s Ambassador of the Year went to Robert Sinkule, CFO of Yoga’s Arc.

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She said the time it takes her crew to clean a house depends on a number of factors, ranging from size to whether it is vacant or lived-in. “Residential cleaning has been the core of the business,” she said. “However, we have grown quite of bit on the commercial side. We serve different industries such as medical practices, multipurpose rooms, fitness studios, office spaces, etc.” And the pandemic has created challenges as well, though she has sur-

The Veteran’s Advocate Award was given to TurbineAero. Kelly Bello of Ghett’Yo Taco noted that 70 percent of the company’s employees are military veterans and each is honored on a “wall of fame” it maintains at its headquarters. Megan Vogus, a music teacher at Basha Elementary School, was named Educator of the Year. Amy Davis of Northrop Grumman, which sponsored the educator awards, said Vogus is known for “encouraging children’s joyful imagination and musical spirit” and has coordinated the Chandler Unified School District Elementary Choral Festival for eight years. “Her choir at Basha Elementary brings her unparalleled joy and she can think of no better job to have than to make music with children,” Davis said. The School Administrator of the Year went to Dr. Kymberly Marshall, who oversees Chandler Unified”s special education programs. “She has a knack for developing talent and she brings out the best in her peers and colleagues,” the Chamber said. Sheila Boyns, a paraprofessional at CTA Freedom Elementary School was named School Support Staff of the Year. Boyns also works for the city’s Therapeutic Recreation Department, which provides

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mounted them. “Even though we are considered an essential business 45 percent of our residential clients put a hold on their cleaning or canceled, so keeping our employees working during the slow months was difficult, but we pulled through," she explained. "I’m so grateful we didn’t have to let go of people or closed our doors.” Information: 480-786-3838, contact@alertcleaning.com. sports and activities for developmentally disabled children and young adults. The Red Apple Award went to Victor Serna, Seton Catholic Preparatory principal for his community leadership. He was praised for strengthen relationships between the business community and educational institutions and working “tirelessly to ensure the safety of his students and faculty throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.”

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THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

29 BUSINESS

ImprovMania welcomes back audience with talk show BY KEVIN REAGAN Arizonan Staff Writer

mprovMANIA is welcoming back audience members to its theater in downtown Chandler after a sixmonth hiatus was taken to protect patrons from the coronavirus. Owner Dave Specht is excited to perform comedy again before a live audience after he and his staff were unexpectedly forced to only produce digital content for the last few months. The actor and comedian had transformed his home office into a mini television studio in order to continue posting weekly sketches and commercial parodies. But Specht said he’s eager to get back onto a stage again and be able to elicit reactions from actual people. The videos were a great way to keep ImprovMANIA’s fans entertained during quarantine, he added, yet they couldn’t offer the same satisfaction a performer feels when they’re in front of an audience. The theater’s slowly begun introducing live events at its downtown location and will soon offer a live talk show that features Specht as the master of ceremonies. The spectacle will include sketches, jokes, special guests, and lots of interactions with the audience. It will be in the spirit of what Conan O’Brien or Johnny Carson did with their shows, Specht said, and hopefully provide some comedic relief during a chaotic time for Chandler residents. And the talk show will be broadcast live online thanks to some new video equipment Specht has set up inside ImprovMANIA. Specht said it is important for the theater to maintain a digital presence despite its return to in-person shows. ImprovMANIA had always planned to offer digital content at some point in the future. But the theater’s staff just wasn’t expecting a pandemic to come along and force them to completely reimagine how they do comedy. Staffers weren’t sure at first how it would work since something that’s funny in-person might not translate well over to a Zoom call. “It’s been difficult but it’s also been a

ImprovMANIA owner Dave Specht is welcoming back live audiences to his downtown comedy theater after a six-month closing. (Pablo Robles/Staff Photographer)

blessing,” Specht said. The theater had to find a way to innovate, he added, which proved to be arduous because the service ImprovMANIA provides can’t be easily packaged and delivered to someone’s front door. As restaurants around Chandler found ways to quickly continue feeding customers during the shutdown, Specht struggled to shift ImprovMANIA to a digital format. “Having a theater closed for six months is probably one of the most challenging businesses to close because we have no ‘to-go’ option or curbside pickup,” Specht said. He named the theater’s first online show “Curbside Pickup” as an ironic wink to the fact that ImprovMANIA’s comedy wouldn’t quite be the same online as it would normally be on stage. And finding ways to be humorous during a deadly pandemic led to another challenge for Specht and his performers. They didn’t want to do jokes that only focused on COVID-19, yet there wasn’t much else going on in the news that they could use as source material.

“It was a challenge for a while to find non-COVID related details so we would just take spins on it,” Specht said. The comedy team did playful parodies of “The Masked Singer” – in reference to the fact everyone is now being forced to wear masks – and penned a holiday song titled “The 12 Days of COVID-19.” The content always attempted to be uplifting and lighthearted, Specht said, because the theater didn’t want to get too dark into the harsh realities of how COVID-19 had radically changed the world. And that’s the attitude Specht has tried to adopt himself for the last six months; he’s remained optimistic and

upbeat even during the pandemic’s darkest days. He’s not ignorantly shying away from the bleakness of the current moment, he said, but instead offering a moment of joyful respite that may be sorely needed by many people. “I’m going to smile in public and cry in my car,” Specht joked. “I’m going to be that beacon of levity.” Before the onset of the pandemic, ImprovMANIA seemed to be on a prosperous path that included an expansion of its space and a growing popularity in its youth theater programs. The pandemic has interfered with some of ImprovMANIA’s plans for this year, Specht said, but staff has found creative ways to keep educating and entertaining its younger students. Rather than perform a production of “Beauty and Beast” in front of an audience, ImprovMANIA’s youth theater decided to film the show as a movie and post it online for family members to watch from home. This strategy ended up being quite successful, Specht said, and the youth theater intends to keep filming productions for the foreseeable future. The theater plans to remain cautious with how it reopens and begins to invite back audience members. Seating in the downtown theater has been drastically scaled back to allow for more space between patrons and everyone’s expected to wear a mask whenever they’re not eating or drinking. Despite these changes to how the theater operates, Specht feels like the future is once again bright for ImprovMANIA since there’s so much buzz and excitement with how they’re going to stage their live talk show. The format will be fresh and new while still preserving elements from ImprovMANIA’s original shows. “The x-factor, I think, is going to be the fact that we’re improvisers at heart and we’re just not afraid of the unknown,” Specht said. More information about ImprovMANIA’s upcoming shows can be found at ImprovMANIA.net

OPINION

Opinion

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

COVID-19 impact on city funds less than feared BY MAYOR KEVIN HARTKE Guest Writer

s we have now received actual revenue results for the first four months which were impacted by COVID-19 (March-June 2020), we are starting to see that the true impact of COVID-19 on our city’s General Fund budget has not been as significant as initially anticipated. Chandler’s diversified economic base and unique local economy has put us in a good position, with revenues coming in higher than expected.

The City anticipated a $10.5 million reduction in revenues for the March through June period that closed out the Fiscal Year 2019-20, while the actual net impact was only $1.8 million. Utilizing the actual COVID-19 revenue impact data in March-July to project COVID-19 revenue impacts in FY 2020-21, it inspires confidence that the budgeted $20 million expenditure reduction incorporated in the FY 2020-21 budget should cover anticipated COVID-19 revenue impacts for the entire year. While we welcome the news that local businesses are doing better than we anticipated, we know there are still specific industries which are struggling

more than others with the impacts of social distancing, reduced capacities and closures. We will continue to find innovative solutions to provide business support and resources. Some of our current solutions include $10,000 grants to some of the most impacted businesses, reimbursements for PPE, advocating for Chandler businesses at the Governor’s office and communication of other regional resources. Another area we are closely monitoring is the level of development in the city. Looking at the numbers for the last FY, we see that both the number and value of permits issued was up.

We have also seen that Arizona is faring better than the national average as far as unemployment, showing a decline in our rate since April. As the economy continues to open back up and people go back to work, we are expecting this rate to continue to decline. The City continues to closely monitor revenues, scrutinize spending and maintain certain expenditure controls to be prepared should the economic environment change. We still have a way to go but we will get through this together. Kevin Hartke is the Mayor of Chandler. He can be reached at kevin. hartke@chandleraz.gov.

Chandler Library is worth your friendship BY MISS PALRANG Guest Writer

hat the heck is a “Friend of the Library?” I asked myself while attending my first board meeting for that “mysterious” group. Perhaps it’s a question I should have asked myself before I volunteered my services. With a pensive “yes I understand look,” I nodded in agreement to everything discussed at the first board meeting. First stop on my investigation? My friends. They’re smart, they’ll know who Friends of the Library are, I thought to myself. My responses? “I don’t know, I’ve never heard that before.” They have a membership? A card? Is that a thing?” “ bookworm? Is that right? Is that what you’re wanting?” “A librarian? Is this a riddle?” “Someone with a library card?” “Sounds elitist to me.” OK, I overestimated my friends. I consulted the Chandler Public Library website.

According to the library’s website, the Friends of the Chandler Public Library is “a non-profit, all-volunteer organization of dedicated library advocates who cooperatively support and sponsor many of the Library’s programs, services, and events. City funds can only go so far.” It goes on to describe programs sponsored by these “dedicated library advocates.” The “maker community with STEAM programming,” the “Read to Succeed tutoring program” and the “Summer Reading Challenge” to name a few. Considering the fact that I’m the newest member of the board, isn’t this something I need to understand? Yes. And so do you. Because it’s really cool. A Friend of the Library (FOL) simply stated is this, someone who donates money to the library. Any amount! That’s it. And another thing to know is how the donated money is used. I was stunned when I found out. I’ve lived in Chandler for over 20 years

and had no idea about the amazing resources and opportunities the library offers. As one board members said, “It’s like a monolith castle with all these hidden rooms and no one knows where the key is.” Children, teens, adults…there are countless opportunities for everyone. You can look at interactive picture books, download current music, read popular magazines, check out physical and electronic books, research your ancestry, stream documentaries and classic films, take on-line courses, plan your next amazing vacation, and many other on-line opportunities. There is also much more available inside the four Chandler branches, it is almost overwhelming. But the best part? Once you’ve signed up for a library card, everything is free. Just. Plain. Free. As stated on the library’s website, “city funds can only go so far.” Your donation fills the gaps and allows the library to offer these great programs and even ex-

plore new ones. Your donation goes into a designated account that is overseen by the FOL Board. This board is composed of volunteers who convene monthly to learn about programs the library offers and to consider funding requests for support of these programs. And donations are tax deductible. So, instead of shipping your hard-earned money off to the government at the end of the year, you can put it into your resources you and your fellow community members can enjoy. If that sounds interesting, check out chandlerlibrary.org/friends. And while you’re there, snoop around at some of the programs and resources the library offers. You’ll be amazed. Rest assured, my less-than-knowledgeable friends will be encouraged to click this link very soon. A little education never hurt anyone. Miss Palrang is a Chandler resident and business owner.

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

OPINION 31

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SPORTS

Sports

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

Skates or cleats? Gibson brothers finding own paths BY ZACH ALVIRA Arizonan Sports Editor

ellen and Cayden Gibson admittedly don’t have much free time. If the two aren’t on the gridiron with Arizona College Prep’s varsity football team, they can often be found on the ice playing double-A club hockey. Sometimes, they can even be found on the wrestling mat or practicing discuss and shot-put throws. But when all else fails, they’re likely navigating their way through rigorous course loads as part of ACP’s curriculum. “It’s definitely tough, time management is a big part of it,” Kellen said. “I was still doing travel my freshman year, so I would have a workout for football then be on the ice for hockey. I just had to find a time for homework any chance I got. “I think my brother will have to figure that out, too.” Kellen, a senior linebacker for the Knights, has emerged as a captain and among the several players now receiving attention from college programs. Cayden, while only a freshman, mirrors his older brother’s 6-foot-2 frame from the defensive end position. The two didn’t start playing football until they entered high school. Their first love while growing up in Anchorage, Alaska always involved ice skates and hockey pucks. Even when they moved to the Valley in 2012, their love for hockey carried on. The two play at the double-A level in the Junior Coyotes club organization. Practices take place at the Ice Den in Chandler. They previously competed at the tripleA level, which is among the highest for club hockey. It involves traveling out of state for games at least once a month, often playing teams from states nearby and on occasion, some from the East Coast, where Cayden says most of the talent is for the sport. “In order to really progress super far in hockey, you have to go to the East Coast,” Cayden said. “That’s where all the talent

Above: Kellen Gibson began playing triple-A club hockey when he was in the eighth grade. Since then, however, he has dropped down a level in order to free up his schedule for football and to play with his little brother, Cayden. (Tim Sealy/Arizonan Contributor) Left: Arizona College Prep senior Kellen Gibson, left, and freshman Cayden Gibson not only have gained recognition for their play on the gridiron but on the ice, too. (Zach Alvira/Arizonan Staff)

is and that’s where you will get noticed.” Kellen began playing hockey at the tripleA level when he was in the eighth grade. That level of hockey is the highest for players in the high school age group. Once he began playing football at ACP, however, he realized the demand was too high to continue and compete in other sports. After dropping down a division to double-A, his love for football grew. Still a four-sport athlete with football, wrestling, hockey and track and field, he’s beginning to find himself put hockey on the backburner a bit in favor of pursuing a collegiate football career. “Just looking at all the opportunities with football, I knew I had to try it out,” Kellen said. “I knew I couldn’t play football and then immediately travel for triple-A hockey. I dropped down a level to still play competitively as a way to kind of keep that door open just in case.” Cayden, however, hasn’t quite made the transition like his brother. He missed the first two Monday’s of of-

ficial practice for the Knights to skate in front of coaches for the same club as Kellen. Their parents have always imagined them playing on the same team in any sport, and despite them being four years a part in age, they have that opportunity this season. As for his favorite sport, he still favors hockey. “I would probably say hockey is still my favorite,” Cayden said. “First of all, it’s cool. It’s indoors. When I play I just feel free. I think it’s the speed of the game. It’s a team sport but there’s no other feeling than when you score a goal in hockey.” ACP head football coach Myron Blueford expects both Kellen and Cayden to make a dramatic impact this season for the Knights. Blueford knows what to expect from Kellen, who was the starting middle linebacker last season. While he was slightly unsure of what to expect from Cayden heading into summer workouts, Blueford’s confidence in the freshman becoming an impact player right away for the Knights has grown.

He’s shown constant improvement on a daily basis and adds depth to a defense that already returns some of the most talented players in the state, let alone the 3A Conference. “When Cayden walks in, he doesn’t look like a freshman,” Blueford said. “Kellen set the bar for this program when he came in. Now, Cayden has had the chance to look up to that and realize what it takes to get to his brother’s level in terms of college attention.” Arizona College Prep opened the 2020 season on Friday against San Tan Foothills. Ahead of the game, the Gibson brothers expressed their excitement. For Kellen, it was to have a chance to play his senior year after a summer of uncertainty due to the pandemic. For Cayden, it was his first shot at playing the sport at the highest level in high school. But both also enjoy the fact they get to share the experience together. “We’ve definitely gotten closer through all of this,” Kellen said. “It’s been fun so far. Just to help him see where he fits in with this team and learn the game, it’s awesome.”

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

GET OUT 33

chandlernews.com

Schnepf Farms’ Halloween tradition is a go BY PAUL MARYNIAK Arizonan Executive Editor

he pandemic has cost the Valley scores of annual public events this year – from fundraising galas and community gatherings to well-established traditional celebrations like the Ostrich Festival and even the Arizona State Fair. But Mark and Carrie Schnepf are refusing to bow to COVID-19 and scrap one of the East Valley’s signature fall events – the Chili and Pumpkin Party on their 300-acre farm at 24810 S. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek. “Someone needs to do normal because for families, it’s tough,” Carrie said. “It’s tough for everyone and we have a big space. … This is just for everyone to just enjoy each other. COVID-19 has been devastating to many families who have lost loved ones or those who have lost jobs. It’s time to finally have some positive memories.” With that theme, the Schnepfs are determined to help families eke some fun out of a year that’s been hard for everyone – including them. Their annual Peach Festival earlier this year was crimped by COVID-19 as they had to forego the traditional peachpicking by patrons, who instead ordered the fruit online and had it picked by the couple’s employees. Scores of spring weddings were canceled, further impacting the bottom line of an operation that depends on such events – as well as the Peach Festival and Chili and Pumpkin Party – to augment the revenue their more traditional farming generates. The Schnepfs have added a number of attractions to this year’s 23rd annual Halloween tradition, which runs Oct. 1-31 and draws thousands of families and couples on many weekend days and evenings. But the pandemic also has forced them to alter some aspects of the party – particularly the number of people they can allow on the premises at any given day.

The Hyper Loop is normally a staple at the Arizona State Fair but since there is none this year, it will be at Schnepf Farm all October for people who visit the Chili and Pumpkin Party. (Special to the Arizonan)

“Extreme steps have been taken to assure visitors that when visiting this fall,” Carrie said. “Their safety and health is our top priority.” The Schnepfs figure they can allow 4,000 people to attend the event, where masks will be required in close quarters like on the hayride, in the country store and a few other places and amusements – and will be mandatory throughout the farm 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Fridays for those grandparents who want to bring their grandkids. Hand sanitizing stations have been installed throughout the site, as well as auto-flushing toilets, soap dispensers and hand dryers. Sanitizing teams will be cruising the farm to keep high-touch surfaces safe and all staff will have daily temperature and symptom checks. To keep the crowds manageable, people must buy their tickets online at pumpkinandchiliparty.com so that the Schnepfs know how many people are planning to come.

While all-season passes are available and good any time, they are included in the count of single-visit tickets to help them count the crowd. “Once we get around 4,000 people, then there’s no more tickets to be purchased for that time,” Carrie said, adding that military, law enforcement and first responders can get in for $10 instead of the regular $23 admission – which entitles visitors to free rides and all other activities except food, the hayride and pumpkins. For those people who enjoy dropping by the party to pick a pumpkin or be one of the 50,000 visitors who gobble up the event’s famous chili lunches and dinners – but are nervous about mingling among others on the farm – the Schnepfs have you covered. They can order bowls of chili – complete with corn on the cob, a slice of corn bread and a brownie – and even caramel apple pies and pumpkins online at Schnepffarms.com. The online pantry also has

other baked goods and food products. For those who do enter the grounds, the Schnepfs have added some amusements in addition to fan-favorite attractions like the pig races, petting zoo, bonfires and the 4-acre and 10-acre corn mazes. The larger maze is always cut in honor of a local sports celebrity and this year it will be Olympic champion swimmer Michael Phelps. Because the Arizona State Fair will not be held, the amusement ride supplier, Kastl Amusements of Casa Grande, is renting the Schnepfs a super slide and the Extreme Hyper Loop to add to the normal array of amusement rides like the roller coaster and kiddie ferris wheel. In the open-air pavilion, Molly Jacobs, the director of the Queen Creek Performing Arts Center, has choreographed a small troupe of three costumed girls and two costumed boys to provide countrywestern shows every couple hours and there will be continuous line dancing for everyone. The Schnepfs also have had success with their drive-in movies on a 50-foot screen and they’ve planned familyfriendly Halloween-themed major motion pictures for people who feel like taking in a movie at $20 a carload in an area apart from the Chili and Pumpkin Party. “We can only take up to 150 or 200 cars but people love it,” Carrie said. “I get emails and phone calls every day about doing the drive-in now. We let them bring their own food and their snacks and they can sit in front of their vehicle or in the back. They just can’t sit beside their cars because of the social distancing.” They’ve also added additional times and days for the event, with 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday-through-Thursday opportunities for families whose kids might be on fall break or can sneak away from their laptops if they’re doing distance learning. Other times are 1-9 p.m. Thursdays, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 10 a.m.- 9 p.m. Sundays.

GET OUT

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

Chandler artist earns Grand Canyon award DAVID M. BROWN Arizonan Contributor

handler artist Matt Sterbenz is not only one of a number of artists who participated in last month’s 12th annual Grand Canyon Celebration of Art at Grand Canyon National Park; he also walked away with the People’s Choice Award. The show attracts professional artists nationwide who paint “en plein air” – or, on location, at various South Rim spots. “It seems like I always learn something new, no matter where I paint at the Grand Canyon,” said Sterbenz, who participated for the fifth year. “Since I am usually camping, I like painting near the Yavapai Geology Museum for the sunrise; it’s closest to the campground, so I don’t have to wake up too early,” he said. “Art played a crucial role in the formation of our national parks and continues to do so in our appreciation of them, and the Celebration of Fine Art helps to keep

In this case, the money raised from the online and onsite arts sale will raise funds to build an art venue at the Grand Canyon, she explained. The studio pieces created by each artist are available for purchase on online at shop. grandcanyon.org until Jan. 18. Sterbenz, a Phoenix native, recalled, “I spent a lot of time looking out the car windows on family road trips and paintScenes from the Grand Canyon like this one are a major part of ing from photos in old ‘Arizona Chandler artist Mark Sterbenz's repertoire. (Special to the Arizonan) Highways’ magazines. “Family camping and fishing the artistic tradition part of the Grand Canyon experience,” said Mindy Riesen- trips gave me an appreciation and love berg, spokeswoman for the Grand Can- for the outdoors, and it seemed like only yon Conservancy, the official nonprofit a matter of time before I brought my easel along with me.” partner of Grand Canyon National Park. He started painting as a kid. Among its many supportive activities, “I had a cheap set of watercolors, and the nonprofit organization operates retail shops in the park, provides educational I tried to follow along while watching programs, maintains trails and historic Bob Ross on TV. I told my parents that I wanted to try oil paints, and they got me buildings and protects wildlife.

a set for Christmas, when I was in the third or fourth grade.” Shortly after graduating from ASU, he met his future wife Carrie and they settled in Chandler. The Grand Canyon is his favorite place to paint. Here he can best fulfil his artistic goal: “Rather than simply portraying a landscape, I strive to paint the experience of being outdoors,” he said, noting that he still paints in oils. One work he is taking this year to Celebration of Fine Art is “Zoroaster’s Embrace”: “Grand Canyon is full of everchanging beauty. Light, clouds, rain, and the canyon are all fighting for attention. These scenes can last just moments before they fade and change into something equally beautiful but entirely different,” he explained. “Here, a monsoon storm brings thunder and rain. Zoroaster Temple emerges from the cool depths, standing strong, gathering warm light and radiating the sun’s glow,” he said.

eliminate single use plastic bottle waste. Together we will drive positive change in a quantifiable way.” Vessl, which also owns the ready-todrink tea brand, Tea of a Kind, is run by Apodaca, who calls himself a “career beverage guy.” He moved to the Valley as a market unit vice president for Coca-Cola. “A friend of mine introduced me to Vessl,” he says. “It’s a really exciting and interesting technology. It’s a bottle cap, but there’s a tank in it that holds a concentrated liquid. The liquid evacuates into the bottle. A lot of products are primarily water, right? Why ship that water? Why put that water in bottles? The consumer can use a reusable water bottle.” Apodaca says Vessl is reducing 30 to 60 truckloads of product, carbon emissions and plastic. Neither flavor nor strength is compromised. Found at QuikTrip, Fry’s, AJ’s and Bashas’, Tea of a Kind comes in peach ginger black tea, pineapple coconut yerba mate, raspberry yerba mate black tea, pomegranate acai black tea, berry ba-

sil yerba mate and mango yerba mate. Miguel was a natural choice for the product. “We spent some time with Miguel through a friend in Marina del Rey,” says Apodaca, an audiophile and musician. “We had lunch with him, and we fell in love with one another through the technology. We fell in love with his passion with what we’re doing. We were specifically targeted and supported by Miguel.” Miguel says the changes Vessl is making can lead to massive transformation, in terms of carbon footprint and plastics in the ocean. “It’s one of those unicorn solutions that is good all around,” Miguel says. “It’s rare you come across those. “I’ve been really blessed to do what I’m passionate about. It’s really awesome to come up people who are as passionate about what they’re doing. We share similar priorities. Obviously, the main thing is how to come up with solutions that are beneficial for the user and the Earth.” Information: drinkteaofakind.com, kalvara.com and officialmiguel.com

Miguel hops on board Vessl as ambassador BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Staff Writer

aucy R&B singer Miguel is taking on a new cause during the pandemic: sustainability. He’s hopped on board Vessl as its corporate ambassador and adviser. The Tempe company is dedicated to eliminating disposable bottles and redefining ecommerce. “When I heard of the company and its solutions, I couldn’t believe it,” Miguel says. “When I saw it, it completely blew my mind how such a small change has the ability to massively transform the Earth in so many ways.” Vessl will collaborate with Miguel across its entire product portfolio, global brand relationships and product development efforts. Miguel will serve as an ambassador for Vessl’s reusable bottle campaign launching this fall, where the singer’s company, Schedule 1 Concepts, will lead the design of limited-edition reusable bottles that support all Vesslpowered beverages.

Saucy R&B singer Miguel will be a corporate ambassador for Vessl. (Special to the Arizonan)

“Miguel’s insights and creativity will support us in ways we could not accomplish on our own,” says Vessl CEO Walter Apodaca, a Chandler resident. “He has a deep passion for sustainability and will ignite awareness of the Vessl platform to reduce carbon emissions and

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

35 CLASSIFIEDS

Announce

ments Obituaries

Obituaries

Mary Boyle Barnett

Rollin Oscar Bowen, Jr.

Mary Boyle Barnett, age 79, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her daughters on Monday September 14, 2020. Mary was the daughter of the late Bill and Eleanor Boyle, life long educators in Tempe, AZ. She graduated from Tempe Union High school in 1958 and Arizona State University where she earned her Bachelor's if Science in 1988, fulfilling her goal of obtaining a college degree. Mary was a life long Arizona resident, born and raised in the Valley. She moved to Nogales AZ in 1960 were she resided for 26 years raising her family. After returning to the Valley, Mary was a long time resident of Fellowship Square in Historic Mesa where she had numerous friends, enjoyed being a part of the choir, bible study and community at large. Mary was deeply devoted to her family, faith, and heritage. She imparted her knowledge of family history and the importance of religion to her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed reading all types of novels and watching old movies. Mary was an excellent baker, well known for her "Mexican Wedding Cake cookies". She was a generous woman who selflessly gave to many charities, most notably St. Joseph's Indian School and St. Mary's food bank. Throughout her life Mary exuded kindness towards all, and was always quick witted, providing her family with many memorable laughs. She was a kind and gentle soul, who will be missed by all who knew her. Mary was preceded in death by her parents and her oldest daughter Ann Barnett Gibson (George). Mary is survived by her children Bill Barnett (Julie), Libby Nicholson (Sean), Katie Parra (Fernando), her brothers Jim Boyle (Barbie), Terry Boyle ( JoLynn) and Bill Boyle (Betty), her five grandchildren (Fernando, Nicolás, Andrés Parra, Jeremy Nicholson and Shannon Barnett) along with numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews. A funeral mass, celebrating her life will be held at a later date. She will be laid to rest at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery next to her beloved parents. Sign the Guestbook at: obituaries.EastValleyTribune.com

On September 21, 2020, Ron peacefully transitioned from this world and into God's hands. He had been surrounded by his close friends, Theresa & Bob Brown, Keith Scarre, and his brother Claude Bowen. Ron served for six years with pride and distinction in the United States Navy Submarine Service. Ron served on the USS Hammerhead SSN 63, the USS Tecumseh SSBN 628 Blue Crew, & the USS Alabama SSBN 731 Blue Crew, plank owner. Ron is preceded in death by his loving parents, Rollin Sr. and Doris Bowen, his loving wife Linda Bowen from Evergreen, CO, and three loving fur babies, Daisey Mae, Cecil B., and Gizmo. Ron is survived by his loving brother Claude Bowen from Virginia. Ron retired as a senior financial analyst at Boeing in Mesa, AZ, working on the Apache attack helicopter program. In retirement, Ron enjoyed travelling, fine dining, making new friends, being a distance cyclist with his TerraTrike, and cycling with veterans' groups. In closing, let's join Ron and don your favorite Hawaiian shirt, play your favorite Caribbean music, and celebrate an abundant life well lived. Please join Ron in supporting and participating in the organ donor program in your state. Sign the Guestbook at: obituaries.EastValleyTribune.com

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Employ ment Employment General BE YOUR OWN BOSS - Hair Stylist! Rental, busy E. Mesa hair salon, work your own hours, private station with sinks! Call or Text 720-237-4610 MetaSoftTech Solutions has opening for Business Systems Analyst in Chandler, AZ area. Reqs US Masters degree/foreign equiv or Bach degree + 5 yrs experience w/ skills in Apex/Triggers/Workflows/ProcessBuilders/ BatchApex/ Visualforce to analyze/coordinate/develop/code/test systems. Email resume to applymst@gmail.com with ref #2020-25 & ref EVT ad

HIRING? If One Needs a Job, They Look Every day! For a Quote email: class@times publications.com 480-898-6465

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Growing Cleaning Company Currently Hiring Janitorial Workers to Work in the Southern and Dobson Area. Start Immediately Day / Night Shift and Full / Part Time Available. Apply at www.pro-serv.com/careers and call 602-867-8889

Business Opportunities Finance/Financial What Should I Do with My Old 401(k)? Call Dennis for a free phone consultation 480.278-3598 or Go to zaderaka.com

Auto - All Makes WE BUY CARS & TRUCKS. WE PAY TOP $$ FOR YOUR VEHICLE RUNNING OR NOT. I CAN COME TO YOU. CALL John at Horizon Auto Sales 480-812-9500 for more info. Horizon Auto Sales since 1999 horizonautoaz@gmail.com horizonautosalesaz.net

Your newspaper. Your community. Your planet. Please recycle me. Employment General COMPUTER/IT Systems Administrator 3 PayPal, Inc. seeks Systems Administrator 3 in Scottsdale, AZ: Responsible for administering sys. overseeing continuous integration, config. mgmt & sys. integration. Req’s: MS(or equiv.)+2 yrs. exp. OR BS(or equiv.)+5 yrs. exp. Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. w/o sponsorship. Mail resume w/ ref. to: Req.#: 18-4417 at: ATTN: HR, Cube 10.3.561, PayPal, Inc. HQ, 2211 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95131. EOE

PROMOTERS WANTED! AVG. PAY $17.89 - $35.73 PER HOUR Large Home Improvement Company Looking For Promoters to Work in the Following Locations. * CHANDLER FIESTA MALL (Chandler) * ARIZONA MILLS (Tempe) * SUPERSTITION SPRINGS MALL (Mesa) * ARROWHEAD MALL (Glendale) WE OFFER: * FLEX SCHEDULE * FULL TIME OR PART TIME * SALARY PLUS COMMISSION * RETIREES & VETS WELCOME * HEALTH AND DENTAL BENEFITS * GREAT FOR COLLEGE * PAID TRAINING STUDENTS

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The Chandler Arizonan

1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway #219 • Tempe, AZ 85282 480.898.6465 class@timespublications.com

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The Place “To Find” Everything You Need | ChandlerNews.com Wanted to Buy

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Manufactured Homes BRAND NEW NEVER LIVED IN 2 BED / 2 BATH HOMES $58,900 Financing Available 55+ Mobile Home Park in Great Chandler Loc. Call Kim 480-233-2035

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Get Free notices in the Classifieds! Submit to ecota@timespublications.com

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THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

Garage/Doors

Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! Painting • Flooring • Electrical Handyman Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry Decks • Tile • More!

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Painting

East Valley PAINTERS

Plumbing

Public Notices

Affinity Plumbing LLC 480-487-5541

THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF Harris TO THE SHERIFF OR ANY CONSTABLE OF TEXAS OR OTHER AUTHORIZED PERSON TO: ESTRADA. CHRISTOPHER BENJAMIN AND TO ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN. RE-SPONDENT(S) You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If You or your attorney do not ﬁle a written answer with the Clerk who is-sued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of 20 days after you were served this citation and ORIGINAL PETITION TO TERMINATE PARENT-CHILD RELATIONSHIP AND FOR ADOPTION OF A CHILD a default judgment may he taken against you. The Petition of: GOFFI, YAHAIRA and GOFFI, ADRIANO ENRICO. Petitioner(s) was ﬁled in the 246th District Court or Harris County, Texas on the 27th day of NOVEMBER, 2019. Against Respondent. ESTRADA, CHRISTOPHER BENJAMIN. numbered, 2019-85221 and entitled “In the Interest of” CHRISTOPHER SANTIAGO ESTRADA-NORZAGARAY A child (or children). The suit requests ORIGINAL PETITION TO TERMINATE PARENT-CHILD RELATIONSHIP AND FOR ADOPTION OF A CHILD The date and place of birth or the child (chil-dren) who is (are) subject of the suit NAME: CHRISTOPHER SANTIAGO ESTRADA-NORZ-AGARAY SEX: MALE DOB: 07/0212008 LEGAL RESIDENCE: HARRIS COUNTY THE COURT HAS AUTHORITY IN THIS SUIT TO ENTER ANY JUDGMENT OR DECREE IN THE CHILD’S (CHILDREN’S) INTEREST WHICH WILL BE BINDING UPON YOU INCLUDING THE TERMINATION OF THE PARENTCHILD RELATIONSHIP, THE DETERMINATION OF PATERNITY AND THE APPOINTMENT OF A CONSERVATOR WITH AUTHORITY TO CONSENT TO THE CHILD’S (CHILDREN’S) ADOPTION: ISSUED AND GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND SEAL OF SAID COURT AT HOUSTON TEXAS ON THIS 28th Day of AUGUST 2020. NEWSPAPER: MESA TRIBUNE, Issued at request of RYAN J ZIMMERMAN ADDRESS: PO BOX 1860, SUGARLAND, TX 77478. BAR NO# 24076796 MARILYN BURGESS, DISTRICT CLERK, Harris County Texas 201 Caroline, Houston TX 77002 PO Box 4651 Houston TX 77210 by /s/ Lonya Porter Lonya Porter, Deputy. PUBLISHED: East Valley Tribune/Mesa Tribune, Oct. 4, 2020/ 33503

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Pool Service / Repair

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Juan Hernandez Pavers • Concrete • Water Features • Sprinkler Repair

Call us to place your ad online!

PPebbleOcracking, O L Plaster R Epeeling, P ARebar IR

Plumbing

480-898-6564

showing, Pool Light out? I CAN HELP!

HYDROJETTING

FALL SPECIAL! $500 OFF COMPLETE REMODEL! 25 Years Experience • Dependable & Reliable

Seeing Double

Call Juan at

480-477-8842

SEWER CABLE COMPREHENSIVE, FULL-SERVICE PLUMBING COMPANY

BOOK ONLINE! STATE48DRAINS.COM 20+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED

480-720-3840 Not a licensed contractor.

Roofing

ROC 3297740

PLUMBERS CHARGE TOO MUCH!

Find 8 things that are different.

Tiles, shingles, flat, repairs & new work Free Estimates • Ahwatukee Resident Over 30 yrs. Experience

480-706-1453

Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099

Bonded/Insured • ROC #223709

480-405-7099 ItsJustPlumbSmart.com

ANSWERS: 3 items on the side of the truck: 1. the “S” in ROAST is now a “5”; 2. kabobs have different color pattern; 3. says EAT instead of MEAT. 4. Mustard is now a tube of glue. 5. Turkey in oven is now a boot. 6. 3rd menu item has changed. 7. Side mirror is missing. 8. There are now 4 stools not 3.

Beat Any Price By 10% • Lifetime Warranty Water Heaters Installed - $799 Unclog Drains - $49 FREE RO UNIT w/Any WATER SOFTENER INSTALL NO INTEREST FINANCING - 60 Months!! ‘A’ RATED PLUMBING REPAIR Free Estimates • Same Day Service

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020 39

NOW OPEN

HAPPY HOUR

Every Day 2pm-6pm and 10pm-CLOSE • $2 OFF ALL Draft Beer and Appetizers • $4 House Wine

• $2 Well Drinks • $4 Titos, Bacardi, Tanqueray, Herradura Silver, Jack Daniels

ALL DAY SPECIALS

MONDAY $10 Burgers TUESDAY $5 Dos XX Draft $4 Chips with Salsa and Guac $6 Nachos WEDNESDAY $10 Wraps

THURSDAY $8 Wings and Chicken Tenders FRIDAY $9 Fish & Chips and Fishy Wrap SATURDAY $10 Pizzas SUNDAY $10 Pastas

The location is formerly Majerle’s Sports Grill at Fashion Center in Chandler

3095 W Chandler Blvd Chandler AZ 85226 www.howlerssportsbar.com

480-899-7999

REGULAR HOURS DAILY 11AM - 12AM

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | OCTOBER 4, 2020

Care and Coverage. Together. You know us for our health care. Now meet our Medicare Advantage plans. Banner Health, the largest health care provider in Arizona, has been helping Arizonans stay healthy for over 20 years. With Banner Medicare Advantage, you’ll get both quality health care and comprehensive insurance coverage in a single plan – including prescription drug coverage – making it easy and more convenient to stay healthy. All from a trusted neighbor.

Make sure you have the coverage you need. Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period starts October 15 and ends on December 7.

Get more from Medicare this year.

0 $ 0 $

Annual deductible and copays for primary care provider visits in network. Rx copay tier. Plus, mail order options included in your plan’s prescription drug coverage. 5,000+ providers to choose from. No referral needed for a specialist in-network. Hundreds of clinics and labs, 16 hospitals.

Call 833-516-1010 (TTY 711) Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. to speak with our licensed agent and learn more about Banner Medicare Advantage plans. Or visit us at Bannerhealth.com/MAnews to learn more or enroll. Banner Medicare Advantage Prime is an HMO with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Banner Medicare Advantage Prime HMO depends on contract renewal. H5843_AEPAdCY21_M

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