West Valley View - West Zone - 12.07.2022

Buckeye program awards local nonprofits grants

BY SUMMER AGUIRRE West Valley View Staff Writer

The city of Buckeye has awarded grants to local organizations through its Nonprofit Community Funding Program for this fiscal year.

After a full review, the Buckeye City Council chose to fund eight out of 10 total nonprofit applicants for the program. The grants sum up to $69,500 for the 2022-23 fiscal year and will benefit nonprofits that provide a variety of human services for Buckeye residents.

“This is a big one for us every year. … This is just a way to help nonprofits get into the community and really help some of those issues that are a problem in (our neighborhood),” said John O’Halloran, public information office, city of Buck-

eye. “So anything from food insecurity, to families in crisis, to helping the elderly and youth programs, you name it — this really helps the community.”

The Nonprofit Community Funding Program, which dates back to 2013, was launched by the Buckeye City Council so local nonprofit agencies would have a process to apply and be selected for a budgeted amount of money.

The nonprofits fall within specific priority categories, which includes family crises, senior programs, homeless assistance, special needs support, youth programs, low- or moderate-income families or individuals, and mental health and substance abuse, prevention and early intervention.

This year’s awarded nonprofits are as

follows:

• All Faith Community Services ($25,000)

— Emergency food assistance to those at risk of food insecurity.

• Buckeye Police Foundation ($11,000)

— Crime prevention, awareness and support for victims of domestic violence and crime.

• Youth4Youth ($10,000) — School drug and alcohol prevention program implementation.

• Homeless Youth Connection ($5,000)

— Engaging youth experiencing homelessness in trauma-informed, client-led, strengths-based interventions.

• Meals of Joy ($5,000) — Providing meals to seniors either living independently with

Fight for education funding is an ongoing debate

BY SAMANTHA REA West Valley View Staff Writer

Five years ago, Arizona teachers went on strike for eight days with the RedforEd movement to protest ongoing funding cuts and low salaries. In 2022, the strike ended but the fight continues.

Arizona’s educators make 5.5% less than the state’s average wage across many occupations, comparing 2020-21 average wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, according to Business.org. While other states such as Pennsylvania, which ranks first, have made little adjustments to their teacher pay in the last 10 years, their educators make up to 28.5% above the state’s average salary. Business.org reported the average teacher salary in Arizona for 2020-2021 to be $52,157.

There’s continuing debate over teacher compensation and whether state education

funds are helping teachers or being diverted to other budgetary priorities. Meanwhile, inadequate salaries for educators are cause for concern for Beth Lewis, director of Save Our Schools Arizona, a nonprofit teacher advocacy organization. She said the biggest fear is the impact it will have on teachers and the education system as a whole.

“It is no surprise that we have a massive lack of teachers who are willing to work for this pay and, under these working conditions, these numbers don’t surprise me whatsoever,” Lewis said.

Educators made their dissatisfaction known in 2018 with the RedforEd movement. Educators in Arizona and other states went on strike for anywhere from five to 10 days, fighting for better salaries and fewer budget cuts. Following the walkouts, Gov. Doug Ducey passed the “20x2020” plan

— a plan to increase Arizona’s teacher salary by 20% by the year 2020.

While Business.org ranked Arizona No. 50 — the worst state in the United States for teacher pay — as reporting teacher pay has declined by 9.59% from 2010-21. Matt Beienburg, director of education at the Goldwater Institute, said Business.org’s numbers don’t quite match up with data from the state auditor general, however. Data from the auditor general shows the average teacher salary was $56,349 in the 2021 fiscal year, June 2020 to June 2021.

Additionally, Beienburg disputes Business.org’s report and said there has actually been an increase in teacher salaries from 2010-2021, though a small one.

In Beienburg’s 2021 policy report, “The Truth About Teacher Pay in Arizona: How

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serious medical conditions or living under the poverty level.

• Sounds of Autism ($5,000) — Purchase toolkits, resources and continue the in-person training for Buckeye’s first responders, families and community leaders.

• Southwest Lending Closet ($6,000) — Lending home health equipment free of charge to anyone in need.

• West-MEC Alliance ($2,500) — Expansion of the West-MEC Career Exploration Summer Camps Program.

During the budgeting process each year, the council sets aside a certain sum of funding to assist organizations that directly benefit the community’s residents.

Upon submission, applications undergo a technical review for completeness and accuracy. The council makes its selections based upon each nonprofit’s project and what it plans to achieve with the money.

Following the initial review, a sub-committee reviews each application and makes recommendations based on specific criteria. This includes the direct impact on Buckeye residents and the demand and service needs of the organization and community.

If the nonprofit is a past recipient, the committee also looks at the impact and effectiveness of previously received funding and compliance with reporting requirements.

The program has allocated a total of $495,530 in grants to 80 applicants since its initiation, according to its historical data.

O’Halloran said the program has been fruitful for the city of Buckeye and its community, and that its success is better measured on a “human on human” level.

“(It’s about) how many people we can help,” he said. “How many organizations can we fund to get into the community to really help hit some of these issues that can come up in Buckeye? So that’s kind of the big thing about this, we don’t look so much at the dollar amount, but look more at the human level, how we’re helping, how we can help and that kind of thing.”

Next year’s application process opens in July 2023, and will be available at buckeyeaz.gov.

Dozens of people attend an annual Thanksgiving Eve vigil at White Tanks Cemetery in Litchfield Park. André House of Arizona, which serves people experiencing homelessness, organizes the ceremony. (Samantha Chow/Cronkite News)

Hundreds memorialized in André House candlelight vigil

BY SAMANTHA CHOW Cronkite News

On the night before Thanksgiving, 1,500 luminarias lit the pathways of White Tanks Cemetery to honor those buried in Maricopa County’s potter’s field — the final resting place for thousands of indigent and unclaimed for nearly three decades.

Every year, André House of Arizona organizes the candlelight event to re-

member those who have been buried there since the previous year’s Thanksgiving Eve vigil. Volunteers last week took turns reading the names of 494 people, who were buried by the Maricopa County Public Fiduciary Office.

André House of Arizona is a Phoenix nonprofit Christian ministry that aims to help people experiencing homelessness.

For more stories from Cronkite News, visit cronkitenews.azpbs.org.

Arizona School Districts Have Held Down Teacher Salaries, Blamed Lawmakers, and Continually Captured Public Sympathy,” he looks at the 20x2020 funds increase and what the distribution of that money looks like in the state’s school districts.

Beienburg’s research indicates that while teachers were receiving pay increases, much of the money was actually being directed away from the pockets of the classroom teachers it was intended for.

“Before you get to a question about more or less, is what we’re spending even getting to the teachers?” Beienburg said. “That’s kind of the fundamental question.”

Much of the teacher pay increases for Arizona’s education staff came from already existing funding districts receive to offset inflation as well as pay increases. However, the funds from the 20x2020 plan were meant to provide a 20% increase on top of these already existing inflation funds. Even so, districts used less than half of the 20x2020 funds toward pay increases,

resulting in only an estimated $3,016 increase per teacher, instead of what was meant to be a $7,050 increase per teacher according to the Goldwater Institute’s policy report.

So if school districts received funding intended to increase teachers’ salaries by 20%, where is the money being allocated within districts?

Marisol Garcia is the president of the Arizona Education Association, the state’s teachers’ union organization. She rejects the idea of funds being misused and said the idea is meant to conceive a public distrust for increased funding in public school systems.

“The idea that districts are misusing money is just an easy thing to say,” Garcia said. “It’s almost trying to find a reason to try to take away money.”

She said the funds aren’t being misused, but that numbers can get confusing, which may be the reason for the differing data reports. She said the terminology “classroom teachers” in funding discussions and reports often excludes other educators who fall behind the line of what is considered a “classroom teacher”, but maintain certifications and play essential roles in

student lives.

“I would have students that are significantly disabled … and so there’s a person there to help. They’re not considered classroom teachers,” Garcia said. “They’re paraprofessionals, who are highly qualified, really important people, but they’re not going to show up as a classroom teacher, right?”

While Tori Schroeder, president of Sunnyside Unified School District’s Education Association, said she thinks the money her district receives goes a long way, it still isn’t as much as some might think.

“There’s a really big disconnect. … The assumption is that this amount of money is adequate, not understanding what happens when you break that down,” Schroeder said.

She said that hundreds of certified educators in her district are not labeled as “classroom teachers” and also received salary increases, such as counselors, cafeteria staff and janitorial staff.

But even for districts said to be doing well allocating funds back to all educators, the extra increases provided still aren’t enough for some to make ends meet. Lewis, Garcia and Schroeder all speak of their own experiences witnessing colleagues leave the profession and struggle with motivation to stay in their positions as educators because they can’t afford to live on their teacher salary.

Marisol Garcia with the AEA said the high turnover rate for teachers is a largely concerning stressor in already unstable schools and feels what is needed is less focus on teacher recruitment and more focus on teacher retention. A focus on raising the teacher retention rate that would be made much easier to obtain with a better salary to offer, Garcia said.

“I’ve had tons of friends who came in and out two, three years in and left; three, five years and left, and they just couldn’t take it,” Garcia said. “When we start losing veteran educators — we’ve lost. If we don’t get them to stay,

that instability is going to disrupt even more.”

With low funding and salaries causing districts to lose educators, Schroeder also said she has noticed area districts and schools have become competitive, offering incentives like bonuses or higher wages.

“It’s very hard for districts, in general, to find especially math, science and special education positions just at all. Literally there’s no applicants for this position,” Schroeder said.

Lewis added that teaching is becoming a profession that many people just can’t take on for economic reasons.

“I’ve been a teacher in Arizona for 12 years,” Lewis said. “I’ve seen it first hand and I have seen many, many teachers who are incredibly talented, amazing souls, who really serve kids walk away because they not only aren’t able to take care of their own families but also because they feel disrespected.”

“There are people who are running the math on, ‘Can I stay in this profession, can I do this thing and still make these bills?’” Schroeder said. “For some of them, it really is, ‘I can’t afford to be in this profession.’”

With talk of more school funding increases to come from Katie Hobbs, governor-elect, the debate goes on.

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Glow on Monroe rolls into Downtown Buckeye

BY JOE MCHUGH West Valley View Staff Writer

Coming into its 19th edition, the Glow on Monroe Electric Light Parade is returning to Downtown Buckeye.

Rolling through Monroe Avenue, from Second Street to Apache Road, vintage vehicles and fire trucks, among others, will be lit up with colorful lights, all accompanied by festive music, food trucks, and beer and wine gardens, making it a great introduction to the holiday season.

“It just gives it that hometown feel, that small town feel, that really just gets you in the holiday spirit,” said John O’Halloran, public information office, city of Buckeye. “It’s just a really good community-driven event.”

Started in 2004, the Glow on Monroe event served a smaller farming community, as tractors and old vehicles would sport the holiday lights as they drove down Monroe Avenue. As time has progressed, though, Buckeye has quickly turned itself into one of the premiere places to be.

This event still provides a way to have the community come together and rally behind an event put on for them.

“People love it,” O’Halloran said. “It’s one of the (events) that always gets talked about. As soon as we put it out on social media, people are saying, ‘We have to go. Let’s go check this out.’ It’s never a bad time. I haven’t heard anybody ever complain about it.”

The small-town feel has grown into a crowd of roughly 6,000 people attending the event. They are treated to a plethora of floats and vehicles to admire. The event will be MC’d by Buckeye Mayor Eric Orsborn himself, and will announce the vehicle drivers by name, providing an even better experience for spectators and participants alike.

“The Glow on Monroe is one of my favorite events of the year,” Orsborn said. “I love being able to announce the floats and marching bands as they cruise through Historic Down-

town Buckeye. Being one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, it’s events like the Glow on Monroe that continue to give Buckeye that smalltown feel.”

“It’s an opportunity for residents to come to check out the Downtown area and spend quality time with their families, while also getting to know their neighbors,” he added. “Seeing the creativity of the floats and Downtown Buckeye decked out with lights, it’s an event that will truly get you into the holiday spirit.”

On Saturday, Dec. 10, the Glow on Monroe event will implement food trucks at the 6th Street Plaza, something the event hasn’t had before. In addition, the 6th Street Plaza will have a beer and wine garden that will have drinks and signature cocktails for attendees of the event.

Overall, the once tractor-driven event that catered to a small audience has now become a staple of Downtown Buckeye in the winter, and even though the crowds are getting larger and larger each year, it will always contribute to the small-town feel of the budding city.

“The (residents) like to get down here and just have a good time with their family and meet their neighbors,” O’Halloran said. “The faces of the kids in the crowd that just light up when the fire truck goes by and hits the siren or something like that. Just to see them light up is good enough for me.”

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

In their third donation of 2022, Credit Union West employees gift ed $5,994.54 to United Goodyear Firefighter Charities (UGFF), a non profit organization that provides services to the Goodyear community and helps firefighters and their families in times of hardship.

UGFF was chosen for what it does to help the needy and fellow first re sponders in its community. It has been a 501(c)(3) since 2007 with the mis sion to partner with community lead ers, private businesses, Goodyear res idents and other nonprofits to support and assist people in need.

They hold community events like Fill the Boot for the Muscular Dys trophy Association, back-to-school drives, holiday toy drives and collects donations for the Westside Food Bank.

To help continue its important work, Credit Union West leaders pre sented UGFF with the donation check at its Corporate Center in Glendale.

“We were so excited to accept this donation from Credit Union West and to learn about their EmployeesCARE Program,” said Zack Renschler of UGFF. “We can’t wait to use these funds to support our Goodyear com

munity.”

This donation was made possible by the EmployeesCARE Program, which is completely funded by Credit Union West employees. The program rais es money for a nonprofit organization selected by employees each quarter. In addition, President and CEO Kar en Roch challenged Credit Union West employees to increase giving by matching the donation with her own personal funds.

“Credit Union West is so happy to give this gift to the United Goodyear Firefighter Charities to help them con tinue to provide important programs for first responders and for the city of Goodyear,” Roch said. “I love seeing our employees rise to this challenge to support our commitment to our local communities.”

This is the third charitable donation that Credit Union West employees have made through the Employees CARE Program in 2022. Last year, employees donated more than $18,000 to local organizations and are on track to exceed that number this year.

To learn more about United Good year Firefighter Charities, visit ugff. org/charities.

For more opinion visit WestValleyView.com WestValleyView.com

OUR READERS’ VIEWPOINTS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Backed-up traffic on Camelback Road

Editor: Driving home on Camelback Road today was horrible with the backed up traffic due to all the warehouses that were allowed to be built. Why did Goodyear city officials allow all these humongous warehouses, yet won’t allow commercial traffic on Indian School Road essentially forcing dou ble the amount of traffic on Camelback Road. That is 100% wrong. Goodyear city officials allowed this to happen, and Litchfield Park residents have been facing the backlash for years. Ei ther allow commercial traffic on Indian School Road or forbid it on Camelback Road. Or better yet, force the commer cial trucks on 303 and Northern Park way only. Camelback Road shouldn’t be a dangerous highway as it is now.

Shirley Booth Litchfield Park

Proposition 309 has failed

Editor: Well, the elections are over with the same results. The amount of illegals who have stormed into the country who are voting proves that Proposition 309 — which would require proof of being a legal citizen to vote — failed. Now think about it, why would that fail if the illegals weren’t voting? Hobbs and Kelly stand for everything that the majority of Arizonans don’t want — open borders, sanctuary cities and high taxes. It should not take a building to fall on you to see that. It is a sad day in Arizona. The illegals are being put up in plush hotels while the citizens and veterans are living in tents on the streets. This is what Kelly and Hobbs

stand for. Kelly lied when he said he called out President Joe Biden on the borders. He has no shame.

Robert Jones Goodyear

Monitoring vehicle on Camelback Road is helping

Editor:

I wanted to let the West Valley View know that I noticed the monitoring vehicle on the side of the road on Camelback Road, and noticed a huge decrease in commercial trucks using Camelback Road while monitoring. As soon as the monitoring vehicle leaves, the trucks start back up again. I believe the trucker association sees the tripod, and during those times they use alternate roads and are trying to skew the data to make it look like it’s not that bad. So during the meeting next month at the Wigwam with the trucker asso ciation, they can see how Camelback Road is fine and dandy. We have the data to prove it even though the data is not accurate by any means. I spoke with a few neighbors and they noticed a decrease as well. Even my children playing in the backyard stated it’s not as noisy today. Thank you.

Bethany Lopez Litchfield Park

Kari Lake will go down in history

Editor:

“We drove a stake in the heart of the McCain Machine.” That comment should go down in the annals of polit ical comments as one of the most pro foundly stupid campaign calls in recent history. Congratulations to Kari Lake.

KIRK’S OPINION — King Features

You made the record book. In 1983, I was assigned to Luke Air Force Base as hospital commander. I met a young congressman named John McCain. We had both served in the Vietnam War and hit it off. I made cold calls for John in his 1986 run for the Senate. I retired from the Air Force in 1985, and was appointed as AHCCCS director in 1987. During my seven years working for the governor, I had many opportu nities to interact with John. My respect for him only increased over the years. His vote on the Affordable Care Act (aka Obamacare) was classic John and protected health care for millions of Americans. I was sad to see him pass away. Kari Lake may have taken Polit ical Science 101 in college, but clearly did not learn the basics of politics. To win you need the most votes. In a close race telling part of your party to pound sand is Political Malpractice.

Leonard Kirschner Litchfield Park

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Airspace is an overlooked precious resource

BY BRANNON HAMPTON Goodyear Vice Mayor

We are all incredibly fortunate to live in Arizona. With some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, an accelerating economy, and comparably low cost of living, more people have been and will be calling Arizona (and Goodyear) home, as was plainly evident in the last decennial census.

Along with the increasing population, comes ever larger numbers of tourists and airline passengers, visiting family, experiencing a different culture, or taking in our stunning scenery, filling local restaurants, hotels and businesses. With that, the infrastructure carrying them and the room they occupy, the planes and airports — even the very airspace itself through which they fly — becomes critical.

With thousands of flights from Phoenix Goodyear Airport annually, not to mention the daily bustle of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and our neighbors at Luke Air Force Base, managing the tangled flow of aircraft from the military, commercial airlines and private sources takes on greater urgency.

Nothing throws up a roadblock to growth, or inconveniences a traveler or local resident, like challenges at the airport, particularly during the holidays when millions are simultaneously struggling to reach their destinations or enjoy a warm weather holiday.

As thousands saw firsthand earlier this year, many flying for the first time in years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, flying was a tenuous proposition as

our warm weather peer and frequent tourist destination Florida discovered.

Like Arizona, Florida is an extraordinarily popular choice for tourists, with robust airport infrastructure to match in Miami, Orlando and elsewhere. However, the state ran into serious trouble not because of the number of gates and terminals but due to limited room in the air.

Florida and Arizona are also similar in another way, more people are making their way here on private aircraft with both states firmly in the top 10 travel destinations for private jets. In Florida, this unprecedented flow of smaller airplanes set off a scramble which led to gridlock in the skies, the likes of which are generally confined to highways at the peak of rush hour. Flights carrying hundreds of passengers were often sidelined, waiting through what seemed like interminable delays and cancellations.

Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg wrote a letter highlighting this trend and seeking measures to avoid it. He is right to be concerned. While Florida is the prime example, travelers everywhere struggled, including in Arizona. If it is not corrected, the problem will spread further, causing even greater frustration.

For this holiday season, perhaps the best gift might be a reliable and on-time flight to your destination of choice. For this reason, the government should strongly consider providing all necessary support to the Federal Aviation Administration to help address this situation.

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ West Valley View Columnist

We begin with the good news about the process of certify ing Arizona’s Novem ber 2022 election.

After all the conspir acy theories, death threats, and fact-de prived screaming about rigged results, only a few hundred protesters showed up for the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors’ Nov. 28 special meeting to certify the county’s results.

In a state of more than seven million peo ple — and in a county where 1,562,758 of us voted on Nov. 8 — a few hundred “nay screamers” amounts to a raindrop in a river.

The bad news? The people who did show up to scream at the five supervisors were bull goose loony.

Like election denier and podcaster Joe Oltman, who traveled from Castle Pines, Colorado, to lament the board’s lack of transparency – in a public meet ing broadcast around the world online –

and to accuse them of “gaslight(ing) the American people.”

That was tame compared to speak ers who threw around terms like “evil,” “traitors,” “crooked,” “clowns” and “vi olent revolution.”

Heck, one lady from Wickenburg, Lyd ia Abril, used her two minutes to share “what God has to say to all elected offi cials,” courtesy of the Book of Psalms. She thundered about “high and mighty politicians” and “giving justice in ex change for bribes,” before asking God to “break off their fangs” and “let them be as snails that dissolve into slime.”

That got quite the round of applause from her fellow zealots.

Later came my personal favorite speak er, failed Board of Supervisors candidate Gail Golec, a Trump-endorsed Scottsdale Republican, who got pasted in the pri mary by Supervisor Tom Galvin. Golec demanded a halt to the certification “until we can get some more audits.”

Golec really hit it out of the park with her finger-wagging tirade: “These machines have come into play and have taken over

countries. South America right now is al most gone because of selections! Thank God for Brazil or we would lose a continent – a whole continent – to these machines!”

Lady, for heaven’s sake, please burn your collection of “Terminator” DVDs, pronto.

After four hours of this nonsense, the su pervisors – four Republicans and a Demo crat – voted to certify the county’s election results, as required by law. Fourteen out of Arizona’s 15 counties have done the same, with only tiny Cochise County, population 126,000, as the lone holdout.

So, election 2022 continues to sputter to its conclusion, despite some national and local press coverage portraying Ar izona and the Valley as something of a laughingstock, populated by nuts and dolts and those who see a conspiracy around every corner and every time a computer printer runs out of toner.

My assessment, which I previewed for you in a column several weeks ago, is this: The 2022 election was imperfect, in part because all elections are. But there were no hijinks afoot.

If it took two weeks to count the ballots,

that’s because (a) it always takes long, and (b) a record number of voters listened to MAGA leaders who told them to hold onto their early ballots until Election Day, thus creating the very issue – slow count ing – that they later lambasted.

Given the relatively few people who showed up to protest the supervisors – a far smaller crowd than your average JV football game – I’d suggest that 99% of us have moved on to bigger issues and real problems.

You remember those, I’m guessing.

Inflation. Rising crime. Our troubled public school system. The lack of hous ing supply in our state. The fentanyl epi demic. Our porous border.

These were the issues would-be elect ed leaders used to campaign on, before they turned to false tales of stolen elec tions and machine takeovers.

I miss the old days, when the other 1% – not the crazy 1% – got all the attention.

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

County officials adopt grim comedy routine on election

BY JD HAYWORTH West Valley View Columnist

You can forget all about “Abbott and Costello…” ditto for “Martin and Lewis.”

A new comedy team with a familiar name has suddenly emerged in Arizona.

These days, Maricopa County residents are treated to the escapades of a real-life “Mutt and Jeff.” And unlike the original comic strip duo, this modern-day pair isn’t confined to the funny papers.

Board of Supervisors Chairman Bill Gates and County Recorder Stephen Richer have made headlines in the aftermath of Election Day. Unfortunately for them, their act — or more accurately, their actions — are not receiving rave reviews.

Still, their “political performance art” played to a full house and a large internet audience during the supervisors’ “special meeting” Nov. 28.

Gates unwittingly affirmed the performance emphasis in his opening remarks, referring to the meeting agenda as a “run of show.” And what a show!

As pure entertainment, it fell somewhere between the efforts of earnest amateur thespians giving their all in a “community theatre” production and “open mic night” at a comedy club where most stand-up aspirants would be well-advised to remain seated.

The county’s lead players could be found in that latter category.

Our taxpayer-subsidized comedy team relies upon the maudlin schmaltz of mutual admiration.

With a presentation style reminiscent of “Mister Rogers,” Gates introduced Richter: “The board is very grateful for your work, Stephen, and thanks so much for addressing us,”

Richer recited some specific numbers: 1.87 million ballots mailed to county voters; 1.3 million completed and returned, 290,000 of those dropped off at voting centers on Election Day and needing signature verification,

which was completed by Thursday afternoon; then the processing of those ballots, done by Sunday afternoon.

In other words, those early ballots dropped off on Nov. 8 — a record number for any election and almost 120,000 more than arrived on Election Day 2020 — took until five days after Nov. 8 to be prepared for counting.

And left dangling in Richer’s account was this oratorical gem: “Over 100 people of all parties contributed to the signature verification process.”

That sounds mighty inclusive, but it is devoid of a key detail: what was the partisan composition of that signature checking group?

After expressing his 100% confidence “in the integrity and character of the people working the other half of the election operation” — the Election Day balloting, so plagued with problems — Richer spread a heavy dose of verbal frosting on this slice of rhetorical flattery:

“That starts with Chairman Bill Gates, who has continued to lead, de-

spite personally and probably going through personal hell.”

As for the majority of concerned citizens in attendance, Richer was disdainfully dismissive.

Saying the focus needed to be on “real issues,” the recorder characterized the grassroots skepticism as “conspiracy theories promoted on social media by people who know nothing,” drawing a loud, angry reaction from the crowd.

Once the recorder finished, the presiding officer made a pronouncement that was shockingly premature: “This election was run extremely well, as you pointed out,” Gates told Richer.

Despite a parade of eyewitnesses recounting mechanical problems with tabulators and printers, as well as a plethora of other Election Day problems, it was clear that this “public hearing” didn’t result in officials truly listening.

After 90-plus minutes of comments, concerned citizen Michelle Dillard summed it up: “This election is not certifiable. … It was targeted voter suppression by the county, including elected officials with glaring conflicts of interest.”

Among the elected officials with “glaring conflicts”? The recorder and the chairman.

Richer started a dark money political action committee, “Democracy Republicans PAC,” targeting Trump-endorsed candidates; Gates spoke out publicly against those same GOP nominees, calling their primary victories a “catastrophe.” and telling Politico he hoped for Republican “humiliation at the ballot box.”

There’s humiliation all right, but it’s Gates and Richer who should be embarrassed — along with all the members of the Board of Supervisors, who voted unanimously to certify the 2022 election.

Mutt and Jeff may be smiling, but few voters in Maricopa County are laughing.

J.D. Hayworth represented Arizona in the U.S. House from 1995-2007. He authored and sponsored the Enforcement First Act, legislation that would have mandated enforcement of Federal Immigration Law in the 109th Congress.

Goodyrear lash-lifting business looks to change market

BY KAILA MELLOS West Valley View Staff Writer

Tialutrell McCormick recent ly started a new chapter in her business by opening a shop in the Goodyear area. McCormick is the founder and owner of Eye Tactics, which initially opened in Las Vegas in 2016 and, now with a storefront on Es trella Parkway, works to bring a change to a specific part of the beauty industry here in Arizona.

Eye Tactics was started to solve the lash enhancement problem faced by many women and men. McCormick created her formula to change this problem and hopefully bring it to vari ous customers.

“Eye Tactics is all about natural lash enhancement through a process called lash lifting, which has become really popular here in the western part of the world in the last couple of years,” Mc Cormick said.

“There’s just this area of the market for men and women where they real ly do appreciate being able to do these lift services to transform the way their lashes and brows look. We have a lash and brow menu that’s similar to going to the hair salon and you can get a tint, or you can just get a trim. It’s up to ev erybody because it has so much versa tility.”

McCormick and her team developed their lash serum formula with keratin for a healthier result. They first formed the serum in 2010 when the Las Vegas studio opened its doors.

“What makes our product different is that it’s been really tested over the last eight years,” McCormick said. “It’s not something new to the market; it’s not something that we’re just coming upon and ordering it. We actually have our own product that we continue to de

velop that has, so far, given amazing, healthy results since it has keratin in it.

“Our process is so much different from everyone else around us as well because we follow actual hair science and we consult with the hairdressers on our techniques.”

Eye Tactic eyelash enhancements only take 60- to 80-minutes, depending on the service. The service comes with its signature three-step treatment and lasts around six weeks.

“The client will be laying down in a room that’s private and your eyes will be closed,” McCormick said. “Typically, people fall asleep during the treatment. During that 60-80 minute timeframe, we’re going to go through our three-step process where we break down the bonds of the hair so that we can reshape it. We will then infuse it with our keratin formula and reseal it. From that point forward, you just keep your lashes dry for 24 hours.”

The treatments range from prices de pending on the service done. But start ing at $79, Eye Tactics hopes to bring basic beauty treatments at a reasonable price.

“We feel like if we’re going to actu ally help shape the market, we really have to fare on the side that this is not eyelash extensions; this is like your hair, your skin, your nails,” McCor mick said. “This is something that you want to be part of your daily mainte nance and your daily life, and asking people to pay extreme (amounts of money) is not realistic.

“We are working on having lifestyle brand pricing, something that is afford able at a membership level that allows people to come and go and get the things they need.”

For more information on Eye Tac tics, visit eyetactics.com.

Tialutrell McCormick is the founder and owner of Eye Tactics and is working to change a specific part of the beauty industry. (Tialutrell McCormick/Submitted)

Business Briefcase

BY KAILA MELLOS West Valley View Staff Writer

The West Valley is constantly growing. Businesses are moving in to call it their new home and flourish with the hundreds of new resi dents also moving in. From a restaurant further developing its cinceot at Avon daleEDGE to a brewery expanding its portfolio in Goodyear, the Business Briefcase will break it down.

Backstreet Asia

Location: 965 E. Van Buren Street, Suite 123, Avondale

Backstreet Asia, which opened in late January, has been bringing flavors from Asia to the West Valley. The restaurant is run by a single mother of two, Lind say Manchua. Manchua catered for six years before opening this restaurant.

“We offer Filipino, Korean, Thai and Japanese food,” Manchua said. “We will be introducing other Asian cultures through food as well. We also

have two karaoke rooms for rent, and party reservations are available.”

Backstreet Asia received its liquor license in August and now has happy hours on occasion, along with karaoke nights and other special event nights. The restaurant also is available to rent out for special occasions, like birthday parties or corporate events.

For more information on Backstreet Asia, visit backstreetasiaaz.com.

State 48 Brewery Roadhouse

Location: Palm Valley Crossing in Goodyear

State 48 Brewery, with six other lo cations across the Valley, is planning to open its biggest site. It plans to create a 4.5-acre space with a production facility and bar/restaurant space in Glendale.

“The ultimate beer town destination. An Oktoberfest atmosphere all year long with indoor and outdoor dining with mul tiple restaurant and bar concepts. There will be a covered stage and gaming area

for year-round family fun. This will be the largest State 48 production facility with 25,000 square-feet under the roof and will be sitting on 4.5 acres alongside the I-10 freeway on the south side of the Litchfield Boulevard exit in Goodyear,” State 48 said on its Facebook.

The brewery offers a wide variety of beers and an assortment of bar-style food for everyone to enjoy. Its other open locations have areas for kids to play and even a bowling alley.

For more information on State 48 Brewery, visit state48brewery.com.

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen at Estrella Falls

Location: 15030 W. McDowell Road, Goodyear

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen in Good year opened its newest location at Es trella Falls Regional Center. The restau rant is based on casual dining and offers scratch-made meals daily. Cheddar’s has 165 other locations, including 140 owned

and 25 franchised, across 28 states.

Cheddar’s was founded in 1979 in Arling ton, Texas, and features high-quality, madefrom-scratch food at affordable prices.

Its menu includes homemade chick en pot pie, baby back ribs, a Monte Cristo sandwich, and grilled salmon. With a wide variety of options, there is something for everyone.

The Cheddar’s concept was acquired by Darden Restaurants in 2017 and is now part of its award-winning portfolio of differentiated brands, including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Yard House, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52, Bahama Breeze and Eddie V’s.

For more information on Cheddar’s, visit cheddars.com.

Have an item for Business Briefcase?

Please email your business news and tips to Christina Fuoco-Karasinski at Christina@TimesLocalMedia.com

Millennium boys basketball sets sights on state championship

BY DAVID MEDINA West Valley View Staff Writer

The Millennium High School boys basketball team has state championship aspirations after a strong start to the 2022-23 season.

The Tigers squad is off to a fast start under head coach Ty Amundsen, as the Tigers went 8-1 through their first nine games — including four of those games being included in the first annual Nike Showdown tournament held at Millennium’s new gym.

Before dropping their first contest of the season to Phoenix Brophy College Prep, the Tigers won by an average of 29 points, a remarkable stat for a team that doesn’t have a single senior on the roster.

“It’s the team aspect,” Amundsen said. “Everybody is buying into their roles, and everybody understands the system on how we implement our offense and our defense. These kids have known it for a long time coming into Millennium, so I think that’s the recipe for their success. They just really understand the system.”

The team is getting heavy production from its young players, including four underclassmen starters. Highly recruited freshman shooting guard Cameron Holmes leads the charge for a potent Tigers offense — he is the leading scorer for Millennium so far this season. The remainder of the starting five is made up of sophomores Kingston

Tosi, Quincy Everson and Jt Amundsen, and junior Donovan Franks.

This talented Millennium squad has a tough schedule ahead of them, as they prepare for the Hoophall West, a tournament that is hosted by the Basketball Hall of Fame. Hopehall West will feature high school teams from 10 states, along with some of the best recruits in the country. Millennium is currently slated to face Milton High School, a talented team from Milton, Georgia. After Hoophall West, Millennium will travel to Hawaii and participate in the Iolani Classic — a tournament featuring top teams from Hawaii and all over the country.

Despite the fast start and national tournaments that the Tigers have coming up, Amundsen said the goals for his team remains the same.

“Every year since I’ve been a Millennium, our goals stay the same. We’re always trying to win a state championship,” Amundsen said. “Our focus is to get better and to be clicking and playing our best ball by the end of January, and going into the playoffs in February.”

Currently in the 5A division, Amundsen said the team has a chance to make the Open Division playoffs, and can compete with and beat the best teams in Arizona.

“I’m just excited about this group,” he said. “This group’s been a long time coming. I’m just really excited for the season, and I’m really excited to see what’s in store for these guys.”

e West Valley View publishes on Wednesday. e weekly calendar — a listing of entertainment events such as concerts, theatrical performances, events for schools, churches, county parks and nonprofit groups — runs every issue.

Events must be open to the public to be considered and generally must be held within the View’s coverage area, which is south of Northern Avenue, west of Loop 101, plus all of Tolleson, extending to Estrella in the south and Tonopah in the west. Events such as concerts and theatrical performances that fall outside the View’s circulation area will be considered because there are no concert halls or theater venues within our boundaries.

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

Submissions must reach our office by 4 p.m. Wednesday to be considered for the following Wednesday publication. Submissions must be in writing and may be emailed to Christina Fuoco-Karasinski, christina@TimesLocalMedia.com

Buckeye Valley Museum Open

WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS

After its recent grand reopening on Sept. 8, the Buckeye Museum has once again begun to bring the past to locals. The museum offers historical exhibits, programs, and school tours. Join the open and take a look inside to explore the past.

Buckeye Valley Museum, 116 E. MC 85, Buckeye, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., 623-349-6315, buckeyeaz.gov/residents/buckeyevalley-museum

Teen Volunteer Wednesdays WEDNESDAYS

On the road to college and careers, it’s incredibly valuable to have volunteer hours

racked up for the resume. Teenagers are encouraged to come by and learn valuable work skills, as well as get some volunteer hours in for school.

Civic Center Library, 11350 W. Civic Center Drive, Avondale, 3 to 5 p.m., free, 623-333-2602, avondalelibrary.org

Ecstatic Dance SUNDAYS

Dance like nobody’s watching with an uninstructed freestyle dance session. There are no steps to follow and no guidebooks to use. People of all age groups and skill levels are encouraged to simply do what they feel and enjoy a judgment-free environment of love and inclusivity.

Turtle Park, 675 N. Villa Nueva Drive, Litchfield Park, 2 p.m., $20, soulshealinghumanity.com/events

Katie on Zoom as she takes you through the ins and outs of art through careful guided instruction. Art supplies are available to pick up for free.

Tolleson Public Library, 9555 W. Van Buren Street, Tolleson, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., free, 623-936-2746, tolleson.az.gov

Ready Set… Bullet Journal

DEC. 10

Figure out the methods to get organized just in time for the new year, and start sorting through your information with a bullet journal. Explore the history of bullet journaling, and discover all the important tips and tricks for setting up one of your own.

Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library, 495 E. Western Avenue, Avondale, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m, free, avondalelibrary.org

Park, 1 to 3 p.m., free, lphsmuseum.org

Las Posadas: A Journey Together to the Mission DEC. 17

Join a candlelight procession through the center of Litchfield Park, recreating Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter in the snow in a classic Mexican tradition. The event features a great fiesta involving food vendors, children’s activities, arts and crafts, and live entertainment.

Litchfield Elementary School, 272 E. Sagebrush Street, Litchfield Park, 5:30 to 8 p.m., free, lphsmuseum.org

DEC. 8

You Are Not Alone at Christmas

Enjoy delicious food and beautiful music during You are Not Alone’s Christmas event. Learn more about how you or a loved one can get the help or company they need this holiday season. Each registered senior of 55 and up will receive a free holiday gift bag. Registration is required.

Christmas

DEC. 10

FRIDAYS

Code Club

Teach kids 8 and older the basics of computer science and learn an increasingly relevant skill in the modern world of technology. Activities are hands-on and interactive, and will allow kids to get experience programming robots, making games, and experimenting with animations.

Tolleson Public Library, 9555 W. Van Buren Street, Tolleson, 4 to 4:45 p.m., free, 623-936-2746, tollesonaz.gov

Adult Art Classes With Katie DEC. 7

It’s never too late to learn a new skill. Join

Palm Valley Church, 431 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, 10 a.m. to midnight, free, 623696-8545, rbeals@goodyear.gov

Holiday Nights in Lights

DEC. 9

Bring the family for a magical walk through The Wigwam’s holiday forest of lights. Check out the holiday displays, and be dazzled by princesses in grand winter dresses singing classic holiday songs.

The Wigwam, 300 E. Wigwam Boulevard, Litchfield Park, 4 to 6 p.m., free admission, wigwamarizona.com

in the Park

The annual Christmas in the Park and parade once again comes to Litchfield Park, with events old and new. This family-focused event includes a hometown parade with all kinds of floats, arts and crafts vendors, local stage acts, and plenty of craft activities for the kids. The holiday market also arrives, selling a ordable foods and trinkets.

Litchfield Park, 100 Old Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., free, litchfield-park.org/1280/Christmas-inthe-Park

Holiday Open House

DEC. 11

Enjoy the holidays with the museum open house, featuring refreshments, children’s activities, engaging exhibits, and an open gift shop.

Litchfield Park Historical Society Museum, 13912 W. Camelback Road, Litchfield

A Contemplative Christmas Through Trees

DEC. 18 to DEC. 23

Throughout the Bible, countless references are made to trees, particularly the pine tree. This walk is intended to help visitors better understand the meaning of Christmas and examine the symbolism within through a walk through nature.

Palm Valley Community Center, 14145 W. Palm Valley Boulevard, Goodyear, 4 to 8:30 p.m., free, contemplativechristmas.com

West Valley View Dining

WestValleyView.com /WestValleyView

For more features visit westvalleyview.com

‘Big trains’ roll into the Valley for holidays

BY JOSH ORTEGA West Valley View Staff Writer

Model trains remind many peo ple of Christmas as a child, and for one local organiza tion, that nostalgia lasts year-round.

The Arizona Big Trains Operators (ABTO) will hold its annual Christmas Open House tour from 4 to 8 p.m. Sat urday, Dec. 10, and Sunday, Dec. 11, and Saturday, Dec. 17, and Sunday, Dec. 18, with 14 homes across the Val ley firing up their festive layouts that help keep the history of locomotives alive and keep these grown adults kids at heart.

While their pastime can be expen sive, the one thing these operators en joy more than tinkering with the trains

is the joy their displays bring to visi tors.

“A lot of people still enjoy the his tory of railroads,” Don Sorenson said.

Sorenson joined the organization in 2006 but had an interest in trains long before that, as his father worked as a brakeman for Union-Pacific Railroad for five years.

He said some of the members have mechanical and engineering back grounds, and this keeps their minds oc cupied with something familiar.

Amtrak said it has seen a 5% de crease in its Arizona station usage be tween fiscal year 2018 and 2019.

“People don’t ride the trains any

1 Cigna will reduce your monthly Medicare Part B premium by $100.

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All Cigna products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Corporation. The Cigna name, logos, and other Cigna marks are owned by Cigna Intellectual Property, Inc. Benefits, features and/or devices vary by plan/service area. Limitations, exclusions, and restrictions may apply. Contact the plan for more information. This information is not a complete description of benefits, which vary by individual plan. You must live in the plan’s service area.

1-888-284-0268 (TTY 711) for more information. Cigna is contracted with Medicare

programs. Enrollment in Cigna depends on contract renewal. © 2022

Children will be fascinated and adults will be reminded of their own childhood when they visit Arizona Big Trains Operators members’ holiday displays the next two weekends. (Arizona Big Trains Operators/Submitted)

Trains...continued on page 24

more,” ABTO President Darrell Woolfolk said. “There’s not many of the youth that have been on a train.”

That’s why sharing their hobby — especially with children — represents an integral part of the organization’s purpose “to promote and advance the interest in and educate the general public about Railroads and large-scale model railroading,” according to their bylaws.

Much to his surprise, Woolfolk said the nonprofit’s membership has seen an uptick in the last two years with 19 new members, bringing their Valleywide total to 77.

Woolfolk joined the organization in 2013 and has served as its president for the last five years.

He said while only half of their members have layouts, they all meet to help each other collaborate and build “extremely elaborate” holiday villages.

“It’s not like setting up on a card table when you were a kid,” Woolfolk said.

The individual cars measure approxi-

mately 4.5 inches tall by 24 inches long with a handful of cars connected that run on tracks up to 500 linear feet winding through a festive holiday village.

The villages can take up a person’s entire backyard and some include railyards, tunnels, ponds, and functioning lights on the buildings with the appearance of snow throughout the setup for the holidays.

The layouts can have multiple zones and take anywhere from two to four weeks to get up and running, but prep work and layout begins as early as June.

The nonprofit holds seven public events throughout the year including one in the spring, but the Christmas Open House is the group’s biggest.

Aside from the two open houses, ABTO maintains train layouts at Banner Children’s at Desert and Hospice of the Valley at Ryan House.

Woolfolk said those layouts remain restricted to patients at the medical facilities due to COVID-19 protocols, but members will still maintain the tracks weekly for the patient’s enjoyment.

“With COVID, everything’s been pretty much locked down,” he said.

Woolfolk said the Christmas event draws hundreds of people per weekend to member’s backyards to watch the layouts light up at night.

Woolfolk said trains have “gone by the wayside” with younger generations and the nonprofit helps rekindle that interest.

Sorenson said it’s an important part of our nation that young people should remember.

“I find that people are very enamored by railroad,” he said. “They’re part of our history.”

For closures due to weather and illness, or more info, visit azbigtrains.org.

Arizona Big Trains Operators West Valley tour homes

Kelly and Cheryl Snow

14725 S. 182nd Drive, Goodyear

Closed — Saturday, Dec. 10, and Sunday, Dec. 11

4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, and Sunday, Dec. 18

John and Boots Gordon

11105 W. Olive Drive, Avondale

4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, and Sunday, Dec. 11 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, and Sunday, Dec. 18

Pete and Debbie Lassen

9252 W. Lockland Court, Peoria

4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, and Sunday, Dec. 11

4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, and Sunday, Dec. 18

GO FIGURE!

by Linda Thistle

Richard E Brumbaugh

R i c h a r d E B r u m b a u g h , d i e d N o v e m b e r 2 4 , i n A v o n d a l e A Z H e w a s b o r n A p r i l 1 3 , 1 9 3 3 i n K e n t O h i o . H e g r a d u a t e d f r o m N y a c k S e m i n a r y C o l l e g e i n N y a c k , N e w Y o r k H e i s s u r v i v e d b y c h i l d r e n R i c h a r d B r u m b a u g h , R o d g e r B r u m b a u g h a n d M a r i e R i l e y , 6 g r a n d c h i l d r e n a n d 5 g r e a t g r a n d c h i l d r e n S e r v i c e s w i l l b e h e l d a t C h r i s t P r e s b y t e r i a n C h u r c h i n G o o d y e a r , A r i z o n a , D e c e m b e r 1 7 a t 1 1 : 0 0 a m

www.thompsonfuneralchapel.com/ obituary/richard brumbaugh

uaries

Jane Sopko Ferezan

Mrs. Jane Sopko Ferezan of Goodyear, A r i z o n a d i e d N o v e m b e r 2 8 , 2 0 2 2 i n Phoenix, Arizona. She was born July 28, 1 9 3 8 i n C o l u m b u s , O h i o t o L e s t e r a n d M a y m e S t e v e n s o n Services are pending.

T o l e a v e t h e f a m i l y c o n d o l e n c e s , p l e a s e v i s i t www thompsonfuneralchapel com/ obituary/jane stevenson sopko

Virginia Robinson

Daniel C. Lomeli Jr.

D a n i e l C . L o m e l i J r . w as b o r n in M iami, A r i z o n a o n A p r i l 2 2 , 1 9 2 8 t o R a m o n a C h a v a r r i a L o m e l i a n d D a n i e l L o m e l i . H i s f a m i l y m o v e d t o T o l l e s o n , A r i zona when he was two and that is where h e r e s i d e d a n d r a i s e d h i s f a m i l y H e passed away on November 6, 2022 sur rounded by his family

D a n i e l w a s a p r o u d v e t e r a n o f t h e K o r e a n W a r w h e r e h e s e r v e d i n t h e A r m y f r o m 1 9 5 0 t o 1 9 5 2 H e a n d C o n s u e l o m a r r i e d i n 1 9 5 3 . D a n i e l a t t e n d e d T o l l e s o n U n i o n H i g h S c h o o l a n d l a t e r worked as a Manager for Arizona Agro c h e m i c a l f o r 3 0 y e a r s u n t i l t h e c o m p a n y c l o s e d H e a l s o w o r k e d f o r t h e City of Tolleson and Tolleson Element ary School District

S h e is s u r v iv ed b y h er H u s b a n d o f 4 0 y e a r s D a v i d , h e r 5 c h i l d r e n , 9 g r a n d c h i l d r e n , a n d 3 g r e a t g r a n d c h i l d r e n

S h a r o n l i v e d a l i f e m o s t w o u l d h a v e e n j o y e d S h e ' s a l w a y s h a d a c o n s t a n t d r i v e t o l e a r n m o r e , t o s e e a n d u n d e r stand more, and to find the beauty in all c u l t u r e s M o r e t h a n a n y t h i n g , s h e h e l p e d H e r m i s s i o n w a s t o h e l p o t h e r s find their dreams and give them a voice t o s h a r e t h e i r s t o r i e s b e c a u s e s h e u n d e r s t o o d h o w i m p o r t a n t e a c h p e r s o n w a s .

D o u g l a s M e l v i l l e C l a y d o n l e f t u s p e a c e f u l l y o n 1 1 / 2 2 / 2 2

D o u g w a s b o r n i n Garden City Michigan in 1948 He loved his home s t a t e i n c l u d i n g t h e W o l verines and the Lions

T h e f i r s t , m o s t i m p o r t a n t t h i n g t o Doug was family He is loved by Shan n o n , C a r o l a n d h i s ( 5 ) c h i l d r e n , ( 1 7 ) grandchildren and (11) great grandchil dren And so many others

T h e s e c o n d , m o s t i m p o r t a n t t h i n g t o Doug was good character and work eth i c . H e s t a r t e d a t a g a s s t a t i o n a t 1 4 y r s o l d a n d n e v e r s t o p p e d H e w a s a b l e t o retire and enjoy life a bit. But he always wanted a purpose He found his last role as a Buckeye City Hall volunteer T h e f a m i l y s e n d s m a n y t h a n k s t o a l l A c e l e b r a t i o n o f l i f e w i l l b e h e l d i n 2 0 2 3 .

V i r g i n i a R o b i n s o n (Ginnie) age 86 of Goo d y e a r , A r i z o n a , p a s s e d peacefully at home with f a m i l y o n N o v e m b e r 24th, 2022 Ginnie was b o r n o n S e p t e m b e r 1 5 , 1936 in Seattle, WA, the fourth child of D r C l a r e n c e a n d V i r g i n i a S h a n n o n S h e g r e w u p i n t h e C a p i t a l H i l l a r e a o f S e a t t l e , p l a y i n g t e n n i s a t t h e S e a t t l e Tennis Club and attending Forest Ridge.

G i n n i e w e n t o n t o a t t e n d t h e U W ( D elta G amma S o r o r ity ) w h er e s h e met t h e l o v e o f h e r l i f e , K e n n e t h R o b i n s o n K e n a n d G i n n i e w e r e m a r r i e d i n 1 9 6 0 a n d h a d t h r e e c h i l d r e n . T h e y e n j o y e d l i v i n g a l l o v e r t h e w o r l d a s a r e s u l t o f K e n ' s m i l i t a r y c a r e e r . A f t e r K e n ' s r e t i r e m e n t f r o m t h e U S N a v y , t h e y settled back in the Seattle area and Gin n i e c o a c h e d G i r l s T e n n i s a t E a s t s i d e C a t h o l i c H i g h S c h o o l G i n n i e a n d K e n m o v e d t o G o o d y e a r , A Z i n 1 9 9 8 , a n d e n j o y e d t h e i r t i m e p l a y i n g p i c k l e b a l l and golf. Ginnie was preceded in death by her husband Ken, siblings Bill, Dick, a n d S a l l y . S h e i s s u r v i v e d b y h e r c h i l d r e n , T i g h e , T e r i O w e n s ( B u c ) , a n d David (Kathy); five grandchildren Shan non, Josh, Sarah, Jake, and Jessica; and 2 g r e a t g r a n d c h i l d r e n T h e o a n d O l i v e r G i n n i e w i l l b e i n t e r n e d w i t h K e n a t t h e T a h o m a N a t i o n a l C e m e t e r y i n K e n t , W A . S e r v i c e s a r e p e n d i n g . A mass of christian burial will be held from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM on 2022 12 0 7 a t S a i n t T h o m a s A q u i n a s C a t h o l i c C h u r c h , 1 3 7 2 0 W e s t T h o m a s R o a d

D a n i e l l o v e d t h e o u t d o o r s , w o r k i n g o u t a n d h e a l s o l o v e d h i s f a m i l y i m men s ely . Lo meli f amily v acatio n s w er e o f t e n e x t e n d e d c a m p i n g a d v e n t u r e s a r o u n d A r i z o n a i n s e a r c h o f t h e b e s t fishing spots. He worked out every day. H i s r o u t i n e c o n s i s t e d o f w e i g h t l i f t i n g a n d w a l k i n g w h i c h h e d i d u p u n t i l t h e l a s t w e e k o f h i s l i f e

H e l o v e d h i s f a m i l y i m m e n s e l y a n d c h e r i s h e d h i s r o l e s a s a h u s b a n d , d a d a n d t a t a H e w o u l d d o a n y t h i n g f o r h i s k i d s b u t h e t r u l y c h e r i s h e d b e i n g a t a t a .

D a n i e l i s p r e c e d e d i n d e a t h b y h i s w i f e o f 6 3 y e a r s C o n s u e l o L o m e l i .

H e i s s u r v i v e d b y h i s c h i l d r e n M o n a ( C o n n i e ) a n d F r a n k i e ( M o n i c a ) a n d h i s g r a n d c h i l d r e n E r i k , K e a n n a , M a r i s s a , A u b r e y , D a n i e l e , M a r k i e a n d g r e a t g r a n d c h i l d r e n E r i k J r a n d J o n a h

A C e l e b r a t i o n o f L i f e f o r D a n i e l w i l l be held on Friday, December 2, 2022 at 9 : 0 0 a m a t S a m a r i t a n F u n e r a l h o m e 1 5 0 5 E . M c D o w e l l R d . P h o e n i x , A Z 85006. A reception will fol l o w f r o m 1 0 : 0 0 t o 1 1 : 3 0 a m then depart for military service at National Memori a l C e m e t e r y o f A r i z o n a 2 3 0 2 9 N . C a v e C r e e k R d . Phoenix, AZ 85024

S h e w a s l o v e d b y s o m a n y a n d m i s s e d b y m a n y m o r e E v e n t h o s e w h o n e v e r h a d a c h a n c e t o m e e t h e r w i l l m i s s h e r M o s t i m p o r t a n t l y s h e w i l l r e m a i n w i t h u s i n o u r h e a r t ; c o n t i n u i n g t o g u i d e u s on a path to enrich lives, just as she did

W e w i l l a l w a y s l o v e y o u a n d m i s s y o u ; M o m , G r a n d m a , S i s t e r , F r i e n d

T h e f a m i l y a s k i n l i e u o f f l o w e r s , p l e a s e m a k e a d o n a t i o n t o c a n c e r r e s e a r c h i n S h a r o n s n a m e

A celeb ration of life will be held from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM on 2022 12 03 at T h e F a r m a t S o u t h M o u n t a i n , 6 1 0 6 S 3 2 n d S t P h o e n i x , A z 8 5 0 4 2

A WORD ABOUT OBITUARIES

The West Valley View publishes free and paid obituaries for residents or former residents of the West Valley cities.

Free Obits: Submit via email to obits@timeslocalmedia.com

Paid Obits: Place online at: obituaries.westvalleyview.com or email to: obits@ westvalleyview.com

Deadline: Thursday at 5pm for Wednesday’s paper.

Questions? 623-535-8439.

Sharon Anne Schofield

S h a r o n A S c h o f i e l d l e f t h e r e a r t h l y b o u n d s earlier this November, in search of heavenly rest

Douglas Melville Claydon

Dorothy H. Pearce

Mrs. Dorothy H. Pearce, 9 3 , o f G o o d y e a r , A r i z o n a d i e d N o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2 0 2 2 in Goodyear, Arizona. She was born January 22, 1929 in Mahaffey, Pennsylvania t o C h a r l e s a n d N a n c y Mitchell (nee Smith)

D o r o t h y i s s u r v i v e d b y h e r h u s b a n d , A r t h u r P e a r c e , s o n s : K e n n e t h G P e a r c e (Donna), Arthur D Pearce, Jr , (Donna), a n d d a u g h t e r s : S a l l y L . E n g r a m ( R i c ) , a n d P a u l i n e J R e e p ( D a n ) A s e r v i c e i s b e i n g p l a n n e d f o r a l a t e r d a t e w w w t h o m p s o n f u n e r a l c h a p e l c o m / obituary/dorothy pearce

William Benson, Jr

M r W i l l i a m B e n s o n , J r . , 5 3 , o f G o o d y e a r , A Z died November 22, 2022 H e w a s b o r n N o v e m b e r 1 6 , 1 9 6 9 i n P h o e n i x , A Z t o W i l l i a m a n d E l e a s e B e n s o n . H e i s s u r v i v e d b y h i s f a t h e r , W i l l i a m , s i s t e r K i m M c Cormack, and brothers Danial and Mark Vance He was preceded in death by his s i s t e r D o n n a T e f f . B u r i a l s e r v i c e s w e r e h e l d D e c 2 a t G l e n d a l e M e m o r i a l P a r k C e m e t e r y .

T o l e a v e t h e f a m i l y c o n d o l e n c e s , p l e a s e v i s i t : www thompsonfuneralchapel com /obituary/william benson jr

S a r a h S c a r l e t t o N o l t e , 3 1 , p a s s e d i n t o e t e r n i t y o n N o v e m b e r 1 , 2 0 2 2

She was born in Phoenix

o n O c t o b e r 2 7 , 1 9 9 1 , t o t h e l a t e M i c h a e l S c a r letto and Margaret Nolte (Nee Jimenez)

I n 1 9 9 8 L a r r y N o l t e s t e p p e d i n t o t h e r o l e o f S a r a h ' s b o n u s d a d . H e w a s h e r s t r o n g h o l d o n e a r t h T h e b o n d b e t w e e n t h e m w a s o f l o v e a n d c o m p l e t e t r u s t . When things were most difficult for her, she turned to Larry.

I n M a y 2 0 0 7 , a t t h e a g e o f 1 5 , a S o p h o m o r e i n H i g h S c h o o l , S a r a h w a s d i a g n o s e d w i t h r e s t r i c t i v e c a r d i o m y o p a t h y J u l y 5 , 2 0 0 7 , S a r a h b e c a m e t h e 801st Heart Transplant at UMC Tucson.

She suffered a massive stroke during the s u r g e r y a n d f o u g h t h a r d t o r e c o v e r h e r m o b i l i t y A f t e r h e r r e c o v e r y , s h e r e turned to Westview High School, gradu ating in 2010. Sarah's journey was pub lished in the West V alley View on June 26, 2007 and July 13, 2007.

Guest Speaker, Refreshments, and Live Music. Please come early due to limited seating.

Thompson Funeral Chapel 926 S. Litch eld Rd. Goodyear, AZ 85338 623-932-1780

Mrs. Mary G. Moreno of Mi ami, Arizona passed away surrounded by her family on November 25, 2022. She was born on February 25, 1930 in Peo ria, Arizona to Martin and Emil ia Garcia. She was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Eddie P. More no, son, Marcos, and daughters, Rebec ca and Yolanda. She is survived by her sons, Eddie Moreno II, Michael Moreno, Randy Moreno, Andrew Moreno, and Juan Moreno, daughter Anna Rodriguez, brother Martin Garcia, and sisters Car mon Beltran, Emilia Vizzera, and Ernes tina Contreras. She is also survived by 22 grandchildren, over 30 great-grandchil dren, and one great-great grandchild.

Mary grew up on Waddell Ranch in Ari zona. She and Eddie raised nine children together. When her children were younger, she was an active participant in their ath letic and scholastic endeavors, and even received an “Honorary Cheerleader” award from their high school. When her grand children came along, she did her best to

attend as many of their events as she could. Her family was her proudest achievement. When Mary wasn’t cheering on her fam ily, attending church, or calling the ra dio station, she could be found cooking. She was an amazing cook known for her bean burritos, tamales, and capirotada. She showed her love through her cook ing. “Are you hungry?” was always one of the first things she said to visitors and her family. Mary also enjoyed reading the Bible and newspaper and watching TBN. She was a frequent caller to her local radio station and became well known to those who worked there. She also found time to visit Italy, Greece, and Rome.

Mary was actively involved in her church and was always serving the Lord. Mary was a God-fearing and faithful woman. She would tell everybody, “You need to know Jesus!” She wanted everybody to know about the Lord and His many works.

A visitation will be held December 6 from 6 to 9PM at Thompson Funeral Chapel in Goodyear, Arizona. A funeral service will be held December 7 at 10am at St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Goodyear, Arizona. Burial will follow at West Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery in Glendale, Arizona.

Sarah endured many setbacks In 2016 s h e s u r v i v e d s e v e r e r e j e c t i o n w h i c h d a m a g e d o t h e r o r g a n s F o r t h e p a s t 7 y e a r s , S a r a h r e q u i r e d d i a l y s i s a n d w a s c o n f i n e d t o a w h e e l c h a i r , s t i l l , s h e m e t e a c h d a y w i t h a r e n e w e d f a i t h a n d s t r e n g t h t h a t w a s a w e i n s p i r i n g t o a l l w h o w a l k e d t h i s j o u r n e y w i t h h e r H e r earthly life was difficult, yet through her f a i t h , s h e l i v e d t r i u m p h a n t l y a n d g a v e l i g h t , l o v e , a n d j o y t o a l l

S a r a h w a s t h e c e n t e r o f o u r f a m i l y . H e r f a i t h i n h e r S a v i o r a n d h e r c o u r ageous, positive spirit amid overwhelm ing challenges will continue to guide us until we are with her again in eternity.

S a r a h w a s p r e c e d e d i n d e a t h b y h e r f a t h e r M i c h a e l S c a r l e t t o , g r a n d f a t h e r M a n u e l J i m e n e z a n d , g r a n d p a r e n t s D a n n y a n d L o i s S c a r l e t t o

S a r a h i s s u r v i v e d b y he r l o v i n g a n d d e v o t e d P a r e n t s , L a r r y a n d M a r g a r e t N o l t e ; s i s t e r s S a b r i n a F i t e ( B r i a n ) a n d Amber Nolte; brothers Matthew Castillo ( M a d d y s e n ) , a n d D o m i n i c S c a r l e t t o ; grandmother Francis Jimenez, grandpar ents Ken and Sharon Nolte; many aunts, u n c l e s , a n d c o u s i n s ; o f t h e J i m e n e z , N o l t e , a n d S c a r l e t t o f a m i l i e s

A C e l e b r a t i o n o f L i f e w i l l b e h e l d from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM on Decem b e r 1 0 , 2 0 2 2 a t C o r n e r s t o n e C h r i s t i a n C e n t e r , 1 1 3 0 1 W I n d i a n S c h o o l R d , A v o n d a l e , A Z 8 5 3 9 2

Sarah Scarletto Nolte

Mary G. Moreno

For more youth visit westvalleyview.com

Kids eat free at these WV restaurants

BY CHRISTIAN COPUS-SALLAS AND KAILYNN QUENGA West Valley View Staff Writers Litchfield

Denny’s 4865 N. Dysart Road, Litchfield 602-830-8505, dennys.com

Offered Tuesday through Thursday, from 4 to 10 p.m. Two free kids meals are provided per adult meal.

Buckeye

Café Rio Mexican Grill

1177 S. Watson Road, Buckeye 623-259-4259, caferio.com

Free quesadillas are served for kids 10 and under with the purchase of one adult meal throughout the week.

Denny’s 9960 W. Lower Buckeye Road, Buckeye 623-440-6235, dennys.com

Offered Tuesday through Thursday, from 4 to 10 p.m. Two free kids meals are provided per adult meal.

Avondale

Café Rio Mexican Grill

10120 W. McDowell Road, Avondale 623-748-2100, caferio.com

Free quesadillas are served for kids 10 and under with one adult meal purchased all throughout the week.

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit

10005 W. McDowell Road, Avondale 623-936-2011, dickeys.com

On Sundays, kids can receive a free meal with the purchase of a meal for a minimum of $12.

Flavors of Louisiana

13025 W. Rancho Santa Fe Boulevard, Avondale 623-935-2357, flavorsoflouisianacajun.com

On Wednesdays, free kids meals for ages 12 and under are served after 4 p.m. with the purchase of one adult meal. On Saturdays, free kids meals are served all day.

IHOP

1491 N. Dysart Road, Avondale 623-925-1260, ihop.com

Free kids meals are provided throughout the week after 3 p.m.

NYPD Pizza 1619 N. Dysart Road, #103, Avondale 623-536-6973, aznypdpizza.com

On Wednesdays, free kids meals are provided after 4 p.m., but on Saturdays, with the purchase of one small pizza, it is offered all day for kids 10 and under.

Village Inn

10010 W. McDowell Road, Avondale 623-478-0895, villageinn.com

On Mondays, one free kids meal is provided per every adult meal purchase.

Tolleson

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit 9860 W. Lower Buckeye Road, Tolleson 623-936-8298, dickeys.com

On Sundays, kids can receive a free meal with the purchase of a meal for a minimum of $12.

Goodyear

Applebee’s Grill and Bar 13832 W. McDowell Road, Goodyear 623-536-8440, applebees.com

Free kids meal provided with the purchase of any full adult entrée.

Café Rio Mexican Grill 13837 W. McDowell Road, Goodyear 623-321-2814, caferio.com

Free quesadillas are served for kids 10 and under with the purchase of one adult meal throughout the week.

Chili’s 1371 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear 623-535-4222, chilis.com

Chili’s Rewards members can earn free kids meals for kids 12 and under with the purchase of a regular entrée.

Clubhouse Grill

14175 W. Indian School Road, Suite C01, Goodyear 623-535-4857, clubhousegrillaz.com Kids ages 10 and younger eat free every day, all day with a purchase of an adult entree.

Denny’s 1218 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear 623-935-7388, dennys.com

Offered Tuesday through Thursday, from 4 to 10 p.m. Two free kids meals are provided per adult meal.

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit 15525 W. Roosevelt Street, Goodyear 623-233-6136, dickeys.com

On Sundays, kids can receive a free meal with the purchase of a meal for a minimum of $12.

Manuel’s 13319 W. McDowell Road, Goodyear 623-435-3793, manuelsaz.com

Free kids meals are provided all day on Wednesdays with the purchase of an adult entrée.

WestValleyView.com /WestValleyView

INVITATION TO BID

Bids Due: January 18, 2023 – 10:00am

Project: Highlands Mountain Trail Ph 2 CFD Landscape Improvements

DMB White Tank LLC seeks qualified General Contractors, with a minimum CR-21 Landscaping and Irrigation Systems, to submit sealed bids for the above referenced project which consists of, but is not limited to, all work associated with installation of the landscape and irrigation in accordance with the plans and specifications (the “Work”). The Successful Contractor shall be responsible for all coordination associated with the Work. Copies of the plans, bid documents and detailed information for this project will be available on December 14, 2022. All interested parties should contact Jennifer Tweedie at jtweedie@dmbinc.com to obtain access to the electronic bid documents. Please reference the project name listed above in the email subject line. A MANDATORY pre-bid meeting will be held on December 21, 2022 at 10:00am. The pre-bid meeting will be held via Zoom call. A meeting invitation will be sent to all interested parties. Sealed bids will be received until 10:00am on January 18, 2023, at the DMB Verrado Offices – 4236 N. Verrado Way Suite A200, Buckeye, AZ 85396. Bids submitted after 10:00am will not be accepted. Bids will be opened privately but read aloud at 10:05am via Zoom call. A meeting invitation will be sent to all interested parties. Unless all bids are rejected, the Contract will be awarded within twenty-one (21) days. The Contract will be awarded to the lowest qualified bidder that submits a complete and accurate bid. A complete and accurate bid will include all information requested in the bid documents. Every bid made by a Contractor pursuant to this Notice shall be accompanied by a surety bond for ten percent (10%) of the bid amount, listing DMB White Tank LLC as the Obligee, as a guarantee that the Contractor will enter into a contract to perform the Work, or as liquidated damages in the event the Contractor

refuses or fails to enter into the Contract with DMB White Tank LLC upon award. The bonds will be returned to all Contractors whose bids are not awarded the Contract, and to the successful Contractor, upon execution of the Contract, and receipt of Payment and Performance bonds for the Work. The cost for providing Payment and Performance bonds shall be included in the bid submittal. A Payment and Performance bond will be required in the amount of 100% of the original Contract value for the duration of the Contract. All bidders shall be required to submit, with their bid proposal, a completed Certificate of Insurance evidencing their ability to meet the insurance requirements for this project. The Contractor shall carry property damage and public liability insurance and shall hold and save harmless DMB White Tank LLC, the City of Buckeye and the Verrado District 1 Community Facilities District from any employer’s liability and from any and all liens for materials or labor in connection with this Work as specified in the bid documents. Any bids submitted without the bid bond, certificate of insurance and any other items as required in the bid documents will be deemed incomplete and will be rejected. DMB White Tank LLC reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to withhold the award for any reason DMB White Tank LLC determines necessary and appropriate. Award of the successful bid shall be subject to approval by DMB White Tank LLC or its representatives. Interested parties shall refer to the bid package and addendums for further information or contact Jennifer Tweedie at jtweedie@dmbinc.com – reference Highlands Mountain Trail Ph 2 CFD Landscape Improvements . No engineer’s estimate will be distributed.

Published in the West Valley View, Dec 7, 14, 2022

for growth in the company. If you are looking for a great company to begin your career with, this is the place to consider. Benefits include vacation time, holiday pay, health and medical bene fits, 401K opportunity and many more Two locations available: 742 E Main, Avondale 1333 N 21 Avenue, Phoenix

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