Ahwatukee Foothills News 02/01/2023

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

Plans for two complexes that would bring over 600 new apartments along the eastern edge of Ahwatukee advanced in separate city and county actions last week.

The Ahwatukee Foothills Village Planning Committee on Jan. 23 voted 6-2 to recommend Phoenix Planning Commis-

sion approval tomorrow, Feb. 2, of a rezoning request that would pave the way for six buildings housing 417 units on 50th Street near Thistle Landing Drive between Ray Road and Chandler Boulevard.

Meanwhile, a Scottsdale developer asked the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors to allow it to convert the Four Points by Sheraton Phoenix South Mountain site at 51st Street and Elliot Road into an apartment building and added adjacent buildings

that would bring 184 to 188 apartments to a nearly 8-acre site.

In both cases, the complexes would produce “highly amenitized” complexes aimed at high-income tenants, according to developers Everest Holdings and P.B. Bell, which are seeking approval of the 50th Street project from the city, and Caliber Development, which wants to transform the 8-acre hotel

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

The companies that built most of the homes in Club West never promised anyone who bought a house there that they would always have a golf course as the centerpiece of their community and expressly advised them the 164-acre site could one day be used for some other kind of development.

That assertion was made last week by a quintet of lawyers representing course owner The Edge as it attacked the Club West Conservancy’s request for a court order to permanently ban home construction on any part of the site.

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Kyrene board OKs first phase of district headquarters re-do

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

The Kyrene Governing Board last week unanimously gave the goahead for the first phase of the renovation of the district’s Tempe headquarters that could cost as much as $6.3 million.

The vote followed a presentation by Chief Financial Officer Chris Herrmann, who said “no money is being pulled from school projects” for the extensive renovation of the Ben Furlong Education Complex of 12 different buildings on 18 acres at Kyrene and Warner roads.

Those individual school projects aren’t cheap, especially as the cost of construction materials and services have skyrocketed in recent years.

For example, Hermann told AFN, the cost to replace the roof of Pueblo Middle School in Chandler is estimated at $4 million.

The Ben Furlong complex is anchored by the district administration building, constructed in 1989, and a bus depot built in 1986.

“These buildings still require the same level of upkeep and maintenance as our school facilities,” Herrmann told the board, “but some of the replacement schedules and standards for schools’ facilities have not been consistently followed for this site – meaning that we have fallen behind on repairs and replacements.

“We’ve really only been able to do a limited general maintenance over the years on these facilities in the area of safety and security,” he said, noting that safety and security improvements alone had never been implemented at district headquarters when Kyrene addressed those items at its campuses in 2015-16.

“Although that topic has been discussed many times since then, no actual work has ever taken place in that particular area.”

Along with safety and security, he said, the administration building requires extensive work on basic infrastructure, such as heating and air conditioning,

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Meanwhile, in an unrelated legal case involving another of Ahwatukee’s four golf courses, Ahwatukee Lakes, a different judge gave both parties two weeks to file closing written arguments in connection with two homeowners’ request for $2 million in sanctions against course owner ALCR.

Homeowners Eileen Breslin and Linda Swain have waged a nine-year legal battle to have that course restored after it was shut down in 2013. While ALCR has reopened the course for play, they contend it failed to expressly follow a judge’s directives for how the restoration was to be done and that it failed to address various deficiencies, including the construction of a new clubhouse.

The Conservancy, a group of homeowners in the 2,700-home community, contend that UDC Homes and its successor, Shea Homes, promised at least some homeowners the site would always be a championship golf course and that they used that promise in countless ads and publicity releases to attract buyers.

The group is asking Judge Timothy Thompson to ban The Edge from selling any part of the site to a homebuilder, although the four owners who comprise the ownership group have not said what they intend to do with the site they bought in 2019 for $750,000.

The Edge in early 2020 initially proposed restoring the deteriorated property with a shortened 18-hole course. a new club house, driving range and 18-hole putting course and selling three pieces of the site for construction of 164 houses to pay for it.

But after builder Taylor Morrison pulled out of the deal in the face of opposition by some homeowners, The Edge through a related entity sought suggestions from homeowners on what to do with the site, suggesting it could be turned into a park.

Since then, however, it has not presented a development proposal, largely because of the current litigation and an earlier lawsuit that the Conservancy had filed against the Club West Association Board.

The Edge’s latest response to the Conservancy’s lawsuit comes after a year of a battle fought largely on paper to have the case dismissed outright on grounds that the group had no standing to even

bring the suit.

But Thompson in December brought an end to that argument by ruling the Conservancy had standing, though he also stressed his ruling was limited and that The “Edge makes arguments that might end up being correct.”

In last week’s filing, lawyers for The Edge noted that none of the ads or publicity by homebuilders promised “the property will be used, maintained and operated as a golf course in perpetuity.”

The Conservancy has argued that many of the approximate 320 homeowners who paid premium lot prices to be located along the course shelled out as much as an extra $60,000 for their locations based their decision on promises of a golf course and that some of their sale agreements include that guarantee.

But lawyers noted that the declarant rights for use of the site – which belong to the owner and not the HOA – noted there is a disclaimer that states:

“All Persons, including all Owners, are hereby advised that no representations or warranties have been or are made by Declarant or any other Person with regard to the continuing ownership, operation or configuration of, or right to use, any golf course within, near or adjacent to the [Residential] Property, whether or not depicted on the Master Development Plan or any other land use plan, sales brochure or other marketing display or plat or purported representation or warranty, written or oral, in such regard shall ever be effective without an amendment hereto executed by Declarant.”

They also cite another portion of the declarant rights that gives the course owner the right “to release or cancel all or any portion of this Declaration with respect to all or any portion of the Golf Course Property at any time without the consent or approval of any other party.”

The Edge’s lawyers address every marketing piece, news story and other material that the Conservancy cites in its lawsuit.

For some items, they said they have no knowledge that the person or material ever said what they are alleged to have stated.

For the most part, however, the law-

yers repeatedly assert that nothing that was quoted or cited by the Conservancy ever promises a golf course forever. They also state that sales agreements cited by the Conservancy contain verbiage that uses of the land are “subject to change at any time without notice.”

And they maintain the homeowners cannot call themselves beneficiaries of the golf course’s declarant rights and that the “declaration identifies only one beneficiary – the owner of the property.”

The Edge’s lawyers also disputed the Conservancy’s assertion that most Club West homeowners opposed the initial 2020 plan to sell three pieces of the course and noted that most of the several hundred owners who attended The Edge’s first presentation of its plan in January 2020 liked the plan.

Thompson has not yet indicated the next step in the litigation, although The Edge’s lawyers asked him to reject the Conservancy’s lawsuit and award them and their clients legal fees. 

fire suppression systems and lighting.

The board specifically approved a $4.8 million “guaranteed maximum price” for the first phase of the project, which has a total estimated cost of $6.2 million.

In addition to the $4.8 million, the board will be voting separately on an additional $1.54 million in contracts for furniture, parking lot renovation, boardroom audio visual upgrades, a badged entry system and HVAC controls.

Between August 2021 and August 2022, they added, there has been an average 19.5% increase in new school building construction costs and that HVAC and electrical materials “see daily/ weekly price increases.”

GMP means that the construction manager must absorb any cost overruns if the first phase exceeds $4.8 million and must return to the district any money if the first phase ends up costing less than that amount.

In addition, contractors are grappling with higher labor costs partly because of workforce shortages. They said three massive projects alone – the Taiwan Semiconductor Plant in north Phoenix, the Meta data center in Mesa and the Intel expansion in Chandler – have siphoned 5% of the over construction labor force.

To cover the Ben Furlong project’s costs, Herrmann said, said the district can tap into three different capital funding sources: $1.9 million in remaining funds from the voter-approved $116.9 million bond issue; nearly $7 million in state District Additional Assistance money; and almost $1.9 million in other capital funds.

Administration officials said that by hiring a construction manager at risk who must operate under those terms, the architect and contractor work together with the district and “there’s greater flexibility in the design phase, shorter project timeline due to collaboration, better budget cost and controls and better project quality.”

They also said setting a maximum price encourages more competitive bidding by subcontractors, resulting in “the best value, open-book cost and transparency and contingency management throughout the construction phase.”

Herrmann noted the district has already pared about $840,000 from the original cost estimates for the project as a result of the GMP process.

He also said the overall renovation of the complex will be undertaken over several years.

“When we look at the work that needs to take place,” he said, “we’re dividing that work into multiple phases with a focus on health and safety – which in our language includes things like building compliance and building codes, general maintenance, wear-and-tear replacement issues, workstations, furniture, technology and interior improvements.”

Other administration officials said there are other reasons for hiring a risk manager with overall responsibility for the work.

They noted Phoenix Metro led the nation in inflation with an 11% increase last year – well above the nationwide increase in the Consumer Price Index of 8.6%.

Besides addressing long-neglected infrastructure needs, the project also will introduce cost-saving upgrades that will reduce ongoing energy, water and plumbing costs, other administrators told the board.

Herrmann also said there are other elements to the overall project that will be proposed to the board over the next few years at an additional, unspecified cost. 

Legislature limits access to lawmakers’ texts, emails

BY BOB CHRISTIE Capitol Media Services

The Arizona Legislature will exempt itself from state public records law and destroy all email correspondence sent or received by lawmakers or staff after 90 days under new rules adopted by majority Republicans over vigorous opposition from minority Democrats.

The Senate also completely exempted text messages on members’ personal phones, which lawmakers frequently use for legislative business, from release at any time. The House policy is not as expansive.

Rep. Travis Grantham, R-Gilbert, a member of the Republican leadership team, defended the new rules during the vote, saying the limits on debate were needed because Democrats were using lengthy floor debates as a “weapon.” He also said that Republican leaders here looked to rules adopted by the U.S. Congress as a template.

“These rules are rules that were accepted and written by Democrats and

Republicans,” he said, even though Democrats in the Arizona House were not consulted. “So to present this in a way that makes it seem that Republicans are restricting speech or stopping one side from doing business, it’s just totally disingenuous and unfair. And let’s just be honest about it.”

He made no mention of the new records retention policy, which has the most impact on the public’s ability to learn what lawmakers are doing and who is urging them to act.

If in place during the 2020 presidential election, these rules would have prevented the public from learning about many of the efforts to persuade Arizona lawmakers to throw out President Joe Biden’s win.

One of the most well-known of those efforts was a series of emails that Virginia Thomas, wife of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and a supporter of former President Donald Trump, sent to a host of state Republican House and Senate members just days after President Joe Biden won the election.

She urged members to throw out Biden’s delegates to the Electoral College and replace them with a GOP slate.

The changes create broad exemptions for the Legislature from state Public Records Law, which requires retention of records indefinitely and release to the public on request.

Senate Republicans were forced to release thousands of emails and text messages related to their partisan review of the 2020 presidential election, although they fought the release in court.

The state Supreme Court ruled last year that some of the emails and text messages could remain secret. The court cited the needs of lawmakers to be able to discuss and debate issues privately, and the principle of separation of powers.

Current Senate President Warren Petersen, R-Queen Creek, was deeply involved in that effort when he was chair of the judiciary committee.

The House package that was adopted despite unified opposition from minority Democrats also makes major changes to many other rules of the chamber, in-

cluding limiting debate on controversial legislation to just 30 minutes and requiring the Republican speaker to approve future rules changes – even if a majority of members vote to do so.

And it allows Speaker Ben Toma, RPeoria, or Senate President Petersen to sue for any perceived slight by new Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs without holding a vote.

The debate limit in the House removes one of the few procedural moves minority Democrats have to slow down bills that are being pushed only by Republican members. The GOP has slim one-vote majorities in both chambers. No major changes to debate rules were made in the Senate, which has half as many members.

The provision requiring the speaker to vote in favor of any future rules change will block any bipartisan effort to bypass him and call for a vote on legislation he does not support.

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Lung Association flunks Arizona tobacco policies

BY JEREMY YUROW Cronkite News

Arizona lags behind in policies that prevent and reduce tobacco use, according to the American Lung Association’s annual “State of Tobacco Control” report.

The state received failing grades in three of five categories and did not improve on any of its grades from last year.

The report, released last week, gave the state an A for the strength of its smokefree workplace laws and a C for its coverage and access to tobacco cessation services.

JoAnna Strother, senior director of advocacy at the American Lung Association in Arizona, said the state received high marks for workplace laws thanks to the Smoke-Free Arizona Act, which vot-

Speaker’s vote been needed … Arizona would not have seen Medicaid expansion or the (2022) ballot referral of in-state tuition for DACA (dreamer) recipients –which the voters approved by the way,” minority Leader Andres Cano, D-Tucson, told fellow members.

“And now it could potentially impede a bipartisan budget unless the Speaker is a yes vote,” he continued. “If a member wants veto power, run for governor.”

Toma said rules on limiting debate had been used at points in the past two years -- though only on occasion and defended the changes to the policy on retaining public records.

“I don’t think there’s any intention on my part to hide anything,” he told Capitol Media Services Wednesday.

“The important part is regardless of what it may look like ... we do have legislative privilege that applies,” Toma said. “And every rule that we’ve made is procedural in nature. In other words, we have the right to do this -- and we’re doing it.”

If it had been in place in 2020, Thomas’ emails would have been destroyed be-

ers passed in November 2006. The law, which became effective in May 2007, prohibits smoking in most enclosed places and places of employment.

“Tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable death and disease in Amer-

fore reporters were able to seek them through public records requests.

The Washington Post first obtained Thomas’ emails in May 2021, more than six months after she sent them. And American Oversight, a watchdog group whose lawsuit seeking to obtain records of the Senate “audit” of the 2020 election, led to the state Supreme Court decision, would have come up empty.

Heather Sawyer, executive director of that Washington, D.C.-based group that focuses on obtaining public records to boost government accountability, said the change only benefits lawmakers who want to hide the truth from the public.

“This rule change abets government secrecy by virtually mandating the destruction of records that belong to the people of Arizona,” Sawyer said in a statement to Capitol Media Services. “An informed public is critical to a functioning democracy and this effort to hide the facts and evade public accountability should be reversed.”

The FBI subpoenaed former Senate President Karen Fann’s records and those of another former Republican senator, Kelly Townsend, last year as it looked into Trump’s efforts to overturn

ica,” Strother said. “We developed the report to give a grading system to correct tobacco policies in each state, to show that there is room to do better and to continue to protect Americans.”

Strother noted that Arizona received a C for its coverage and access to tobacco cessation services for several reasons.

She praised the state Medicaid system for offering seven medications to help smokers quit, including Chantix and

his defeat. But Sawyer said it would have come up empty if the new policy had been in place.

Democratic Sen. Mitzi Epstein, D-Tempe, on Wednesday decried the

Zyban, as well as nicotine patches, gum, inhalers, nasal spray and lozenges. She also gave credit to the state’s Ashline hotline, which offers over-the-phone counseling for people who are trying to quit.

However, Strother said a barrier in Medicaid coverage still needs to be addressed.

“Sometimes their barriers are the number of times per year (smokers) can have a quit attempt,” Strother said. “You don’t want to put a limit on that because it could take upwards of 15 attempts to become successful. So, eliminating any barriers like that would be really important.”

Arizona Sen. T.J. Shope, R-Coolidge, who chairs the Health and Human Services Committee, acknowledged that the Medicaid barrier could be worth considering.

see LUNG page 12

new secrecy.

“We should be operating transparently,” Epstein said. “And the emails where we discuss policy should be available to the public when they request it.” 

“This is the first I’ve heard of it, but that very well could be,” Shope said. “It seems like if you’re truly trying to attempt this from a health care perspective, or out of a desire to live a healthier lifestyle, perhaps that’s something that could be looked at.”

The report gave Arizona an F for its funding of state tobacco prevention programs and an F for its level of tobacco taxes.

According to the report, Arizona is set to receive $19.4 million in total funding for state tobacco control programs from July 1, 2022, to June 30. That includes roughly $17.7 million from state funds and about $1.7 million from federal funds.

The total remains a far cry from the $64 million recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and cited in the report.

For comparison, the ALA estimates that the tobacco industry spends roughly $123.7 million annually on marketing tobacco products in Arizona and generates $414.9 million in state revenue.

To provide more funds for tobacco control programs, the association has

encouraged Arizona to expand its taxes on tobacco products. Although Arizona’s tax of $2 for a 20-pack of cigarettes is 9 cents above the national average, the state does not tax electronic cigarettes. The ALA hopes that will soon change, Strother said.

The lung association is also pushing for an equalized tax on all tobacco products or a tax at a fixed percentage. Arizona currently offers a weight-based tax for pipe and roll-your-own tobacco products as well as smokeless tobacco.

Despite evidence that tobacco usage is higher among Arizonans compared to the average American, Shope downplayed its impact as a whole and said he wasn’t convinced that raising taxes to provide more funding to state tobacco prevention programs would produce better results.

“Look, I don’t want anybody smoking,” he said, “however, you’re down to such a small percentage of folks who are participating, that if they truly believe that there’s additional marketing that can cause that number to go lower, I wonder where the equilibrium is? I’m not necessarily of the opinion that more money will cause that number to go down.”

The report gave the state an F for having no restrictions or bans on flavored tobacco products.

According to Strother, the ALA is advocating for a complete ban on flavored tobacco products. Currently, just five states have enacted statewide bans on flavored tobacco.

The ALA also has advocated for Arizona to enact a statewide tobacco retailer licensing system and to oppose all forms of statewide preemption for the sales or use of tobacco products.

It remains to be seen if the advocacy will lead to real change. During the 2022 legislative session, the lung association in Arizona pushed for legislation that would create a statewide tobacco retail license, include electronic smoking devices in the Clean Indoor Air Act and raise the age to buy tobacco products to 21 years old.

None of the bills passed.

Shope said he isn’t optimistic that new legislation will come this session. For that to happen, organizations such as the American Lung Association and American Cancer Society will need to compromise with the tobacco industry, he said.

“There have probably been three or four (competing) bills over the last four years,” Shope said. “Because we’ve done this dance with each other for so long, there are lines that neither side is willing to cross.”

At a news conference last week, Gov. Katie Hobbs signaled an openness to legislation that would combat tobacco use.

“There’s a lot of effort going on and I think my office would be supportive of things we can do to help make Arizonans healthier, tobacco use included,” she said. 

Bill would impose life, death sentences for fentanyl dealers

BY BOB CHRISTIE Capitol Media Services

State Senate Republicans want to boost the penalties for people who supply the powerful synthetic opioid fentanyl, and advanced a bill last week that would subject someone who makes, transports or sells the drug to life in prison or the death penalty if someone dies after taking the drug.

But the proposal from Republican state Sen. Anthony Kern of Glendale got a cold reception from people who testified at the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, along with Democrats, who worried the broad language in the bill could lead to friends or family members of overdose victims being prosecuted.

Democrats on the committee also raised concerns that people who provided the drug would avoid calling for medical help for an overdose victim because they fear prosecution, even with provisions in a “Good Samaritan” law currently on the books. They include Phoenix Sen. Christine Marsh, whose 25-year-old

son Landon Marsh died in 2020 after he took what he thought was a prescription opioid that was in fact fentanyl.

Timothy Sparling, an attorney with the Arizona Attorneys for Criminal Justice, a group that advocates for defendants, said SB 1029 could sweep up family members, friends or others if someone got hold of drugs they had and ended up dying.

“This would lead to scores of murder convictions for drug users who by virtue of their use, or possession of fentanyl alone, will be a cause of death of another,” Sparling told the panel.

Sparling said a husband who gave his wife a pill to handle her pain could get life in prison, or friends who are partying together where one ends up with one overdosing could face first degree murder charges.

“It doesn’t matter if it was an accidental overdose, and it will hurt the people who hurt the most from these situations oftentimes, by putting them in prison,” he said.

The move is prompted by the ongoing opioid epidemic, which has seen

nearly 8,000 people die of overdoses in the past five years, according to statistics compiled by the Arizona Department of Health Services. The department does not post a breakdown on how many of those deaths were caused by fentanyl as opposed to other opioids, but for non-fatal overdoses the rate was 64% last year.

Local and state police in Arizona have made a staggering haul of the deadly drug in arrests over the last few years. In one week alone last month, state police confiscated over 160 pounds of drugs, mostly fentanyl pills, in three different traffic. The drugs were being transported from California to Oklahoma, from Tucson to Marana, and from the Phoenix area to Denver.

Kern said it is time to crack down on those who provide the drug to others.

“We all know of the fentanyl problem out there” he said. “I know probably everybody in this room knows of someone that has died of fentanyl, and it’s time in my opinion to put the hammer down.”

The proposed law expands what is known as the felony murder rule, which allows prosecutions even if someone was not directly involved in causing a death.

Kern said the “Good Samaritan” law, which bars prosecutions of someone who calls for help for an overdose victim, would bar prosecutions of that person. Sparling disagreed, saying there is no exception to Kern’s proposal.

Kern acknowledged that courts would be involved in those decisions.

“If a person is arrested then it has to go through the court process,” Kern said. “In my understanding everybody except Jan. 6 prisoners and certain Republicans get due process.”

Kern was referring to the attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, when thousands of supporters of then-President

Donald Trump attacked Congress in an effort to stop lawmakers from confirming President Joe Biden’s win. Kern was there but has said he did not enter the Capitol and did not take part in the riot.

Another bill sponsored by Kern greatly reduces the amount of fentanyl needed to merit major felony charges, lowering it from nine grams to two milligrams, a tiny amount, and allows major boosts to prison sentences if someone under 15 overdoses.

Democratic Sen. Anna Hernandez of Phoenix said the proposals are in conflict with one from Fountain Hills Republican Sen. John Kavanagh that opposes defunding police but also says law enforcement should focus on high-risk offenders, expand rehabilitative programs and work to reduce prison populations.

“I think that we are looking at using hard criminalization in the wrong way here,” Hernandez said. “Why are we not also using Sen. Kavanagh’s language from his referendum to help us build a better policy to address the fentanyl issue.”

Kern said that is a different issue.

Kavanagh, a committee member, suggested that the provision on sales of fentanyl should be removed to prevent small amounts from triggering major prison sentences, but it remained when he voted along with other GOP committee members to advance Kern’s bill. No Democrats backed Kern’s bill.

Democrats on the committee also raised concerns that someone who provides a drug might not even know it is fentanyl. The opioid has been mixed into many other drugs and sold on the street as other narcotics.

Republican Sen. Justine Wadsack of Tucson wasn’t buying that, saying she had no problem seeing those who distribute fentanyl subject to the death penalty.

“I have a real issue with giving any leniency to somebody who’s dealing with fentanyl, with other people is lives,” Wadsack said. “I don’t know that we need to be worrying about how drug dealers can verify that their drugs are safe for the street.” 

site on a county island.

In both cases, county and city planning staffs have approved the developers’ plans. Because the Sheraton development is on a county island, the city has no jurisdiction over the project.

County supervisors could vote as early as Feb. 8 on Caliber’s proposal while final action by Phoenix City Council on the 50th Street project could take a few weeks longer since it is only going before the Planning Commission at 6 p.m. tomorrow for its consideration.

Caliber wants to convert the six-story, 160-room hotel into a refurbished highrise with 100 units and add a total of 84 single-family two-floor apartment buildings with garages and driveways around it, demolishing the convention centerballroom attached to the hotel.

P.B. Bell and Everest Holdings want to raze what they call an under-utilized two-building office complex on nearly 14 acres at 15210 S. 50th St. and build four three-story buildings that would surround two four-story, 56-foot-high structures and a 12,000-square-foot clubhouse and swimming pool.

Developers in both cases pointed out their respective sites are currently underutilized for a variety of reasons.

P.B. Bell and Everest say the office complex they want to demolish has steadily lost tenants to newer and more efficient buildings as well as to shifting work habits that see more people work remotely

from their homes.

Caliber said the Sheraton, which replaced an older hotel, never got traction as a destination for travelers.

Both developers also say their projects will stimulate more retail growth along Elliot, Warner and even Ray roads between the I-10 and 48th Street.

And they are promising developments rich with high-end amenities both on the grounds and inside the units that will attract high-income professionals.

While county planning staff in a report told the supervisors that no one has opposed the Sheraton plan and one neighbor endorsed it, several neighbors have urged rejection of the 50th Street project until the city finds ways to reduce heavy traffic congestion already in the area..

They also have pointed to a nearby set of three warehouses currently being built that developer Via West has said could generate as many as 1,800 vehicle trips, mostly semi-trailers, onto 50 Street.

Concerns about traffic and skepticism over the developers’ claims of the highend nature of the 50th Street project were voiced by some Village Planning Committee members during their meeting last week.

Stressing “we are in dire need of affordable housing and that higher-density housing is the only way we’re going to meet that over the next 10 years,” Committee member Mike Schiller said he thought the project made sense be-

see COMPLEX page 17

The 417-unit apartment complex on 50th Street near Thistle Landing Drive would comprise four three-story buildings surrounding two four-story ones. (City of Phoenix)

cause “I’ve watched (the office complex) decline over the past 10 or 15 years.”

But Schiller went on to question the developers’ commitment to maintaining the high-end complex, citing a complex at 44th Street and McDowell Road that “had very nice amenities” when it opened and deteriorated over the last 10 years to the point where “people were scrambling to get out” as a result of “a dramatic increase in vandalism” and other problems, including drug dealers.

“Now you and every other multifamily unit developer in the metro area is making the same exact claim for who your target audience is,” Schiller said. “I would want to meet all these young professionals that are moving into our economy from all over the United States and into metro Phoenix. Our primary source of population is people moving here from industrial states and college students.”

“Are you as the developer going to maintain your presence in the facility for 10 years to help maintain what you’re desiring to accomplish? Or are you going to flip it to a real estate aggregator so you can move on to the next project?”

P.B. Bell CEO R. Chapin Bell pointed to his Scottsdale company’s track record of owning properties as long as 15 years, adding,” A lot of that is a function of the market, and of the investors there. …Our strategy as it relates to this asset hasn’t been determined.”

“But if there’s an asset location that makes sense for long-term hold, this is one of those locations,” Bell added, stating:

“And it’s important for us that we maintain the asset because we know that this is people’s homes, they’re coming home every day, to live here so it’s important to maintain that. We know today that people have choices. You know, there’s a large percentage of the people that live in apartment communities, they can buy a home, but they choose to live in a high-quality apartment.”

Schiller replied, “You used the magic words in my book: You said ‘people’s homes.’ I’ve seen too many developers not use that phrase. I applaud you for that.”

To make their case for the need for more housing, the developers said Ahwatukee currently has 22 apartment communities totaling 6,592 units – all built between 1985 and 2014.

Since 1999, they said, only two complexes with a total 510 units have been built.

But some of Schiller’s colleagues and at least one nearby resident weren’t convinced by Bell’s assurances or the developers’ traffic study.

A traffic consultant hired by the developers said the complex will add only about 200 vehicles to the morning and afternoon rush hours despite the fact it will have more than 700 parking spaces.

Resident Constance Holcomb stressed her disappointment that the meeting was not in-person – City Council has not yet allowed planning committees to meet other than online – and said “somebody has to address the traffic concerns because this is extremely dangerous for us who live here.”

Developers’ attorney Manjula M. Vaz said she and her clients were sympathetic to the traffic concerns, but added, “I think it’s a larger conversation with the city and District 6.”

On traffic, Vaz said, “It’s not just here. It’s everywhere. …We’re happy to con-

planation of how the city evaluates a project’s impact on traffic, noting the city’s conclusion that the massive Upper Canyon development on Chandler Boulevard between 19th and 27th avenues would have no significant impact.

“Respect for the traffic department is at a real high point right now,” he told Vaz, who only said, “I appreciate that.”

VPC members Mike Maloney and Suzanne Sharer, who are both Realtors, cast the two votes against recommending Planning Commission approval. 

Tracking the complexes

To address the city Planning Commission or listen to its 6 p.m. Feb. 2 meeting online, go to phoenix.gov/cityclerksite/PublicMeetings/230202007.pdf. The meeting is virtual only.

tinue to work with this committee and neighbors on traffic as best we can.”

The developers also said they worked with a third-party traffic engineer and the city to study the project’s impact.

But Schiller took issue with Vaz’s ex-

For information on when the county supervisors might consider the Sheraton project during inperson meetings or online, check for agenda updates at maricopa. gov/324/Board-of-Supervisors-Meeting-Information.

Caliber’s proposal for the Sheraton hotel site would also provide entrance and exit only from 51st Street not far south of Elliot Road. (Maricopa County)

Phoenix among nation’s worse for skin health

BY KEN SAIN AFN Staff Writer

Valley of the Sun residents need water to survive. However, that combination of sun and water is doing a number on their skin.

HouseFresh, an indoor air quality company, released a survey of the worst cities in the U.S. for skin care. Chandler ranked fifth worst.

Leading the way was Scottsdale and five Valley cities ranked in the dubious top 10.

Experts are blaming the water and sun.

“Let’s not kid ourselves, OK?,” said Valley plastic surgeon Dr. Farhan Taghizadeh. “The water is only maybe 10-to-20% of the problem. The majority of the problem is the high UV (ultraviolet) index.

“And the way that the sun hits the skin in this Valley, and that’s a big component of it. The failure to protect the skin against the sun … is the number one issue that we see here.”

The Valley got negative marks for the high amount of “hard” water people use

to drink, shower and wash clothes with.

So what is hard water?

“Hard water is caused from water naturally picking up minerals, like calcium and magnesium, along its journey to the drinking water treatment plants,” said Chris Connor, utility regulatory affairs senior manager for the City of Chandler.

“Because the surface water that the Valley cities use travels hundreds, sometimes thousands of miles, it gives the water ample opportunity to pick up minerals along the way. Groundwater can also pick up minerals from the rock formations in the aquifer.”

Those minerals in the water can cause problems.

“When hard water is used for showering and bathing, the minerals can react with soap and body wash to form a film on the skin called soap scum,” said John Schaff, a dermatologist in Ahwatukee. “This can lead to dry, itchy skin, as well as eczema and acne.”

So what can residents do about it?

Schaff said getting a water softener that removes those minerals from the water

is a good first step.

He also suggested buying a shower filter that removes minerals and chlorine from the water and using soap and body wash, specifically formulated for use with hard water. Also, use a moisturizer to help hydrate and smooth itchy skin.”

However, Taghizadeh said people should be careful about the water softening system they buy.

“This is my own assessment,” he said. “Traditional water softeners are not adequate for the type of water that we have here. And there are advanced systems that will remove more of the harsher elements in the water to help improve the tone and texture of the skin.”

Hard water is only about a fifth of the problem. Pollution also plays a role, Taghizadeh said.

But the biggest culprit is the excessive sunshine the Valley gets.

“So there’s two different components of sunlight, there’s UVB and UVA,”

Taghizadeh said. “The UVB does more of the surface damage. That’s where people get the redness they get, the sunburn and some of that, but it’s the UVA that actually goes deep into the skin and causes damage to the DNA.”

It can lead to skin cancer.

It also makes people look older because the sunlight does significant damage to the cells that make collagen, which is a protein in skin.

He said skin begins to look weathered because the collagen is not being replaced.

“So you have pollution, you have sunlight, and then you have the water as sort of the three components that really mandate that people invest more in their skin,” Taghizadeh said.

“And unfortunately, a lot of people don’t. And that’s why Phoenix, and especially this part of the Southwest, tends to have very poor scores as it relates to skin care.” 

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Fired teacher accuses Valley Christian of gay bias

BY KEN SAIN

AFN Staff Writer

Adam McDorman says that his Christian beliefs include acceptance and equality for all LGBT people and that God’s children should never discriminate or show hostility toward them.

The English teacher at a private Christian school in Chandler says he lost his job because of those beliefs.

In a twist, he is claiming in a lawsuit filed Dec. 27 that Valley Christian Schools in Chandler discriminated against him for his religious views. Usually religious schools make that claim when they are sued for anti-gay bias.

According to the federal suit, here’s what McDorman said led to his termination:

Last fall, a Valley Christian School student made a social media post saying they identified as pansexual, which means they are attracted to all genders or gender identities.

High school Principal Josh LeSage

learned about the post and urged his staff at a Nov. 1 meeting to share the belief in the sinfulness of LGBT sexual ori-

entation and that anyone who disagreed was like a cancer that needed to be removed from Valley Christian.

McDorman voiced his objection during a Nov. 3 department meeting, saying the school needs to find a better way to care for the school’s LGBT students and protect them from discrimination.

LeSage sent out an email later that day, saying he planned to meet with the student, whose parents were not invited.

In the email he wrote: “There is a hideous lie that “You can be both,” meaning homosexual and otherwise sexually deviant and also a Christian. God is clear that we cannot openly live in and celebrate our sin, much less elevate it to the status and being part of our identity and serve Christ at the same time. The very thought is so offensive.”

In the email he specifically mentioned McDorman, stating:

“We have a faculty member and a ‘central office’ employee who supposedly suggested in a meeting today that we invite a pastor of a local gay-friendly church to come and speak to our faculty to help us

better understand this lifestyle and better minister to those kids we may have.

Adam McDorman has filed a federal lawsuit against Valley Christian School in Chandler over his firing for what he said were his beliefs gay people should not be discriminated against. (Special to AFN)

Valley Christian School Principal Josh LeSage allegedly said homosexual men became gay because they were sexually abused as youngsters. (Special to AFN)

Hell no! We are not doing that.”

McDorman claims he told LeSage on Nov. 8 he did not think that it was a good idea to exclude the student’s parents from his meeting with her.

The principal responded that he had a “problem” with Christians who identify as gay or gender nonbinary and met for several hours on the topic.

McDorman was fired the next day.

The student met with the principal and the school’s coordinator of student health and wellness soon afterward without the parents being present. The student recorded the conversation.

In the recording, LeSage tells the student that transgender people have a mutation in their brain. He said they’re not crazy, it’s biological.

He also said this:

“The homosexual community is shying away from the fact that most homosexual men did suffer sexual abuse as an adolescent. And there is solid scientific research outside of Bible circles, that shows your first sexual experience has a strong determining factor in what your sexual preferences are.

“So again, sin coming into the world, a boy is abused by a man, something happens in his brain that shifts and makes his preference cannot always, but can, give him a preference for men sexually.”

He also told the student, “Same-sex relations are an abomination to God.”

What he said appears to be consistent with school policy.

According to the lawsuit, the school’s Foundational Positions states, “Any form of sexual immorality (including adultery, fornication, homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexual conduct, bestiality, incest, pornography, and attempting to change one’s biological sex or acting upon any disagreement with one’s biological sex) or advocacy of sexual immorality, is sinful and offensive to God.”

The lawsuit claims the school deprived McDorman of his right to be free from discrimination based on his religious views. It says LeSage subjected McDorman to threats of discriminatory treatment.

His lawyer, Krista Robinson, said McDorman declined to be interviewed for this story. She said he is not working now and has taken his firing very hard.

Robinson also said that he was reluc-

tant to file the lawsuit, and waited until the last day he could file to give the goahead.

A voice mail to LeSage’s phone asking for his side of the story was not returned.

McDorman also filed a discrimination charge with the Arizona Attorney General’s office.

Dan Kuiper, the head of schools for VCS, wrote in an email, “Since this is a pending lawsuit, we are not able to comment at this time. Our insurance company has not assigned a lawyer to the case.”

The lawsuit is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, back pay and lost benefits, and reasonable attorney’s and experts fees. 

LA CASA DE JUANA

DELIVERS A KNOCKOUT WITH ITS FRESH, AUTHENTIC AND MOUTHWATERING FOOD

If you thought you have been to a Mexican restaurant lately you probably need to reconsider and visit La Casa De Juana in Ahwatukee. The fare is authentic Mexican, and when we say authentic we mean it, unlike many of the restaurant chains that call themselves Mexican. Upon entering you’ll be dazzled by the colorful décor, the tables and chairs are beautiful, Mexican painted murals, colorful banners hanging from the ceiling and the gracious service with warm orange and yellow tones echoing throughout the restaurant will make this your favorite Mexican restaurant. With great lunch and dinner specials, we have Happy Hour Monday - Sunday from 2 - 6 PM with $5 House Margaritas, $4 Beers, $5.95 Cheese Quesadilla, $8.95 Chunky Guacamole and $9.95 Juana’s Nachos. Live music every Thursday night in our Ahwatukee location and every Friday at our Tempe location. In conclusion The flavorful salsa, the delicious margaritas, the extraordinary and well-priced food will definitely keep you coming back.

Don’t hesitate to stop by the Ahwatukee location 3941 E. Chandler Blvd. (S/W corner Chandler & 40th St) to make your next reservation call 480-823-2834

www.juanashouse.com

BY JANELLE MOLONY AFN Contributor

The founder of the Ahwatukee nonprofit Lights, Camera, Discover is opening a new events center in the community on Feb. 18 to help the kids to learn about movie, TV and video production.

Founder and Executive Director Kema Charles is inviting the community to celebrate a grand opening and take a tour at 3 p.m. Feb. 18 of the AMA Room in the Ahwatukee Palms Plaza at 48th Street and Warner Road.

“Entertaining runs in my blood,” said Charles, adding that the inspiration for opening the center came from personal joys and memories growing up in a family that celebrated special occasions.

The center’s name “AMA” is an acronym for her family members: Andre (father), Minnie (mother), and Andrea (sister).

“They are my foundation and unfortu-

nately, I lost all three to cancer,” she said. “Growing up, we were the party house. Dad played the music, mom cooked the food, and my sister did photography.”

Interested parties can get their preferred dates secured with a deposit at that time as well.

The new event space boasts 3,200

square feet to accommodate microweddings, receptions, corporate gatherings, and performance space for the community to take advantage of. The main venue can accommodate between 150 to 300 guests and a smaller space is available for club meetings, workshops, and other activities.

“We are more lenient than hotels and other event centers,” said Charles. “We offer a ‘Your Way’ experience that is easily personalized.”

Renters can entertain with a big screen projection system, a DJ booth, bar and host caterers of their choice in the adjoining prep kitchen. Charles also can provide decorative photo booths for guests to boost attention to an event on social media.

Beyond private functions, there are also once-a-month community events scheduled for 2023. Charles is hosting painting classes for seniors, “safe space”

see AMA page 26

New Ahwatukee event space aims to help kids Church completes expansion of EV campus

BY JOSH ORTEGA Tribune Staff Writer

Growth continues for Generation Church, called one of the nation’s 100 fastest-growing congregations.

The church, which has a campus in Ahwatukee, marked the grand opening of its $2 million remodel at its Mesa campus, 1010 S. Ellsworth Road.

The re-do doubled its capacity there to 1,100 people, and the opening also celebrated the ninth anniversary since Pastor Ryan Visconti and his father, Randy Visconti, founded Generation in 2014.

For six of the last seven years, Generation has made the list of America’s 100 fastest-growing congregations, accord-

ing to “Outreach Magazine.”

Despite the pandemic’s impact on many places of worship, Communications Director Carlos Sandoval said they’ve felt “fortunate and blessed” to see growth where others didn’t.

That comes partly from Generation Church’s culture. “I feel like our church is very welcoming, the moment you walk into the church you see a lot of smiling faces.” Sandoval said. “So, there’s like that culture where people feel welcomed, and they feel at home.”

The Mesa campus currently offers Sunday services at 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. – the most of all three of its campuses. It also has campuses in Ahwatukee and Fountain Hills.

Kema Charles, founder and executive director of Lights, Camera, Discover, is excited about the new events center she has opened in Ahwatukee. (AFN file photo)

Generation Church in Mesa offers kids a brightly decorated room for play. (Courtesy Generation Church)

GENERATION

Prior to this expansion, Sandoval said the Mesa church averaged just under the auditorium capacity of 550 for each service, or about 1,500 per week.

Since a soft launch of the 32,000-square-foot building in December, Sandoval said they’ve seen around 750 people per service and are “seeing steady growth week over week.”

Sandoval said the growth has amazed the church leaders and that many people said they had been waiting for the expansion’s completion before they attended.

“We definitely saw a big growth just in the last couple weeks,” Sandoval said.

This growth is attributed to Pastor Visconti, whose parents, Randy and Dawn, had been the pastors of then-Celebration Church, founded in 1999.

Visconti served as an Army Cav-

Rev. Ryan Visconti is the pastor of Generation Church in Mesa, which his father Rev. Ryan Visconti founded in 2014. (Facebook)

alry captain in Iraq in 2010 and thought about a law career after his service until he felt a calling to follow in his father’s footsteps.

After his honorable discharge from the Army, Visconti went to New Liberty University, where he earned a master’s degree in theology and joined the Generation Church staff as an executive pastor in 2011.

After several years, Ryan and his dad discussed possible names for this new church and Randy suggested the name “Generation Church.”

“They didn’t realize how much the church would live up to that name, making a generational impact and demonstrating the power of a godly legacy,” according to their website. “Today, Generation Church’s ministry shows the power of the gospel to change lives from one generation to the next.”

In June 2017, Generation

Kyrene spelling champs

Top spellers from across Kyrene competed at the Kyrene School District Spelling Bee and the district champion is Paige Erickson, an 8th grade student at Kyrene Middle School. After 16 highly competitive rounds and 130 words, Paige correctly spelled the championship word “radioscopy” to clinch the title. Second place went to Sophie Nolan, a 7th grade student at Aprende Middle School. Both will compete in the Maricopa County Regional Bee on Feb. 11, and they won’t be representing Kyrene alone. This year, Kyrene is eligible to send its top five spellers to the regional bee, and each of these outstanding students will compete next month, including, Paige and Sophie as well as Aanandi Dutta (grade 4), Kyrene de los Cerritos Leadership Academy; Joshenn Bayani (grade 7), Kyrene Traditional Academy; and Aryaman Swain (grade 4), Kyrene de las Manitas Innovation Academy. A total of 24 Kyrene spellers competed. (Courtesy of Kyrene School District)

Church launched the South Mountain campus in Ahwatukee following a merger with New Life Church at 11832 South Warner Elliot Loop in Ahwatukee, which had been established by Ryan’s in-laws, Paul and Beth Lavino, in 1991.

After a merger with Fountain Hills Christian Center in 2017, Generation launched its most recent campus.

With more direct and bold preaching compared to other “motivational-type” churches, Sandoval said the church appeals to people’s desire to grow in their own faith and the new building helps them build that up.

“So, I think that’s where there’s a need at,” Sandoval said. “So, when they come in, they come out not just feeling good, but they feel that they’re growing in their faith and in their walk with God.”

Information: generation. church. 

Garden club slates floral arrangement program next Monday here

Desert Pointe Garden Club’s 1. p.m. Feb. 6 meeting will feature flower arrangement by Roxie Griego, owner of Blooms on a Budget in Scottsdale. Members will have the opportunity for some hands-on learning. The club will also tour Singh Gardens in Tempe later in the month.

Anyone interested in joining a garden club is welcome at the meeting at the Ahwatukee Recreation Center, 5001 E. Cheyenne Drive.

Ahwatukee Friends and Neighbors slates luncheon program on YOPAS

Ahwatukee Foothills Friends and Neighbors offers local women an opportunity to meet new friends and share experiences and one way of learning more is attending its 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. luncheon Feb. 27 at Shalimar Country Club, when Brenda Nichols, YOPAS associate director, discuss the Ahwatukee YMCA and its Outreach Program for Ahwatukee Seniors.

Nichols began her career in 1986, hired right out of col-

AMA from page 24

dances for teens, karaoke nights, comedy shows, film screenings and more. Announcements for those are on LCD’s AMA Room Facebook page.

Charles, a Chicago transplant who moved to Arizona 2012 after working for a decade in Hollywood, has acted on a TV series and in commercials, worked in post-production and directed music videos.

As an homage to her loved ones, Charles has incorporated decorative sayings in the AMA Room such as, “Andre says ‘Dance!’” on the DJ booth and “Andrea says ‘Smile!’” on the photo booth.

The majority of the revenue from rentals will be funneled into student tuitions for after school and summer programs hosted next door at Lights Camera Discover.

There, children ages 8 to 18 are provided hands-on learning experiences in the fields of film and digital media production. Instructors expose children to STEAM applications in the following disciplines: screenwriting, photography, cinematography, prop and costume design, editing sound and video, and enhancing the output with special effects.

Students who are more drawn towards video game and web design also have opportunities to develop content in the new Phoenix Suns Computer Lab. This room was outfitted with a

AROUND AHWATUKEE

lege by Presley Development, and joined the Y in 2000. Contact affanwomensgroup@gmail.com for more luncheon details and to register. Cost is $23 prepaid.

AFFAN organizes various activities, including Find new friends while enjoying activities as team trivia, dining on the town, wine tasting, Explore Arizona trips, book club and more.

Information: affanwomensgroup.org/public.

Original Biscuits Restaurant reopens after kitchen fire

The Original Biscuits Restaurant on the southwest corner of Elliot Road and 48th Street has reopened, several weeks after a fire in the stove area damaged the kitchen.

That means the Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club is back there meeting at 7:30 a.m. Thursdays.

Speakers include: Feb. 9, Jeff Parent, Ahwatukee Little League; Feb. 6, Kevin Robinson, Phoenix City Council candidate; March 9, Mary Adams, of Mountain View Lutheran Church; and March 16, Juan Te Dailey, of D Squared Homes for the Homeless.

Ahwatukee Cub Scout troop to hold food drive this Saturday

Ahwatukee Cub Scout Pack 178 is joining the nationwide Scouting for Food program this weekend, noting one out of four young people in Arizona are in households of four without enough food and that food banks are facing historically low inventories.

People can leave grocery bags of nonperishable food items on the front door before 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, or drop them off at Western Star Park from 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Information: Allison Rosner at 480-209-7848.

Time to think about the Kiwanis Ahwatukee Easter Parade

Now that the Christmas decorations have been put away, it’s time for schools, groups, businesses and even families to start thinking about their entries in the 47th annual Kiwanis Ahwatukee Easter Parade and Spring Fling April 8.

The club is already planning the parade, which starts at Warner Road and 48th Street and heads north to El-

liot Road.

Though entries are being accepted until March 30, it’s never too early for organizations “to put their heads together and organize their entries,” said Mike Schmitt, Parade Boss for the 31st consecutive year.

Spectators are welcome to bring lawn chairs or spread blankets and enjoy the parade. Public address stations will be located at Ahwatukee Country Club and at the corners of Ahwatukee Drive, Kiowa Street and Pawnee Street.

Kiwanis Club President Carrie Chipman also reminds people that the club will need volunteers for the Spring Fling fundraiser that immediately follows the parade, which starts at 10 a.m.

After the parade, all are invited to the Spring Fling at Ahwatukee Community Center Park, 48th Street and Warner Road. Enjoy entertainment by local groups, vendor and craft booths, Easter Egg Hunt, carnival rides, games, food, beverages, and games until 4 p.m.

see AROUND page 27

often more available, well-paying, and come with greater job security.

She hopes to inspire the next generation of production artists and because of her dedication to forming an inclusive and affordable experience, she has recently been honored with a nomination for the YWCA’s Tribute to Leadership Award.

“This designation recognizes women who embody and exemplify the mission to eliminate racism and empower women,” said Marta Werbanowska, a representative for the YWCA.

The creative arts summer programs are slated to begin this June and July, running three weeks each.

Each week, students will complete one video arts project to add to their showcase. Every child will have a chance to experience at least three different opportunities to explore jobs in the production field. They also will receive breakfast, lunch, and a midday snack.

$100,000 gift from Devin Booker, the celebrity shooting guard for the Suns basketball team. In 2019, he committed to an annual donation to five area nonprofits for the next five years through the Devin Booker Starting Five program. This year, Lights Camera Discover has a new corporate sponsor that has granted $50,000 to fund the administrative and tuition costs for the youth summer program.

Charles hopes that with the additional income generated by the AMA Room

rentals, her non-profit children’s program can become self-sustaining and no longer dependent from year-to-year on variable grants.

At Lights Camera Discover, Charles said she teaches her students, “You can be a Hollywood success without having to be on screen. There are so many talented people behind the camera that are making that dream happen.”

Charles learned from her own experience transitioning from acting to producing that behind-the-scenes jobs are

Normally, the all-inclusive summer camps cost parents around $350 per week per student, but thanks to corporate sponsorships and the funds received from AMA Room rentals, each student’s tuition will be paid in full.

Open enrollment will be announced at lightscameradiscover.org.

Supporters can contribute directly to future LCD programs, or through booking the AMA Room. For rental inquiries, send your date and description of the event to Book@LCDAMARoom.com 

Film students at Lights Camera Discover who will benefit from every rental booked at the AMA Room, include, from left: Titian Gauldin, Antonio Gauldin, Christopher Wood, Angel Garcia and Joseph Brauer. (Special to AFN)

Home sellers might be hearing more jingle in their pockets in the coming months, according to the leading analyst of the Valley housing market.

And that’s especially true in the Southeast Valley and Phoenix, the Cromford Report said last week.

Projecting only a small decline in square footage price, it said, “The downward pricing trend is weakening because in many places the supply has dropped and demand improved. Asking

prices are now on the rise and it does not take a big leap of imagination to see closed prices following suit during the second quarter.”

It added that luxury home interest seems to have waned, noting “The highend of the market is not participating very strongly in the increased demand that we are seeing for the mid-range and low-end…. Scottsdale continues to increase but at a reduced speed.”

But the good news is for area sellers, according to the Cromford Report,

Builders see fewer Americans think housing will be available

Homebuilders are finding that buyers’ expectations of housing availability soured again at the end of the year.

The National Association of Home Builders reported last week reported that in the final quarter of 2022, “the share of buyers who expect the home search to get easier in the months ahead dropped to 24%, down from 37% in the third quarter. In contrast, 66% expect the search to get harder/stay the same, up from 59%.”

which based its analysis on a set of housing data it uses to produce the Cromford Market Index. Using that data, it rates 17 Valley municipalities in terms of whether prices favor buyers and sellers, with a 100 reading indicating a perfectly balanced market and anything above tilting to sellers.

“The Southeast Valley is having a spectacular CMI recovery with Chandler up 43%, Mesa up 38%, Tempe up 25%, Queen Creek up 24% and Gilbert up 19%. Phoenix is also strong at 26%,” it said.

“Among the 17 largest cities we see four currently in a buyer’s market below 90, three balanced between 90 and 110, and 10 in a seller’s market over 110,” it said.

Leading the parade – though behind Fountain Hills and Paradise Valley – is Chandler, with 151. With Scottsdale sandwiched between, Phoenix is in sixth place with 125.5 – a significant rise from the 90 score it had a month ago. Mesa, Tempe and Gilbert occupy ninth

Three quarters of the nation showed “housing availability expectations deteriorated,” it said. That included the western United States, where expectations fell from 52% to 32%. Only the southern part of the country showed a small bump in expectations, from 23% to 24%.

“Another way to measure buyers’ perceptions of housing inventory is to ask them if they are seeing more/fewer/the same number of homes for sale (with desired features and price point) in their markets,” the association said. By this measure, buyers’ perceptions also worsened.”

through 11th place, respectively, with scores ranging between Mesa (119) and Gilbert (108).

“Overall the market is more favorable to sellers than we expected in December and downward pressure on pricing has been largely eliminated, except in a few market segments,” the Cromford Report said, further pushing away the gloom that hung over sellers for the last four to six months.

Driven partly by more or less stable mortgage rates, the Cromford Report was optimistic about the immediate future.

“The more favorable situation has started to bring more sellers into the market and new listings have been more plentiful over the last week,” it said, although it added that other inventory and demand remain “well below normal” and supply “not deteriorating as it was for much of 2022.”

All this good news for sellers also became a springboard for the Cromford Report to take a shot at Wall Street giant Goldman Sachs for its fear-inspiring forecast – and some media outlets,

In the final quarter of 2022, it reported 30% of buyers were seeing more such homes available, down from 36% a quarter earlier.

Inventory perceptions weakened across all regions. with the West showing the second greatest decline, from 42% to 31%. The northeast registered the biggest from while the south dipped by only 1%.

The association cited results from the Housing Trends Report, which its economics team created to measure buyers’ perceptions about the availability and affordability of homes for-sale in their

markets on a quarterly basis.

A total of 17,703 people were polled, of whom 2,301 reported plans to buy a home within the next 12 months, the association said.

The group said that slightly more than half the respondents were men and that just under 50% were millennials and 27% lived in the west.

About 63% were white, 30% Hispanic and the rest African American. Just under half of the respondents reported incomes of under $50,000 while about a fifth reported earning more than $100,000 annually.

Preserve and featuring a remodeled kitchen with new dark kitchen cabinets, a resort-style backyard and pool, and custom hardwood and stone flooring throughout. (Special to AFN)

notably Fox News, for giving it more credence than Cromford thinks is warranted.

Phoenix home prices will go up and then drastically down?

Come on now, there is no data that supports that outlook. Just a wild-ass guess?”

Noting home values crashed by 60% between 2006 and 2011 in the Valley during the Great Recession, the Cromford Report slammed Goldman Sachs for using that for comparison.

“Since the peak in May 2022 of $475,000, the median was down to $412,000 by December. This is a fall of 13% so far,” it said.

It ripped Goldman Sachs for “making all kinds of weird and unlikely forecasts” that said the housing market would crash and home values plummet by as much as 25% or more in four cities, including Phoenix.

“Not quite sure how to deal with it because its description of the current Phoenix market bears little comparison with the real world,” the Cromford Report said.

“The idea that interest rates will skyrocket in 2023 seems more than a little far-fetched when the inflation rate is falling,” Cromford said. “It could happen, but to have this as your base case seems very irresponsible.

“Is Goldman Sachs really saying

While wondering whether Fox News “garbled the message that Goldman Sachs put out,” it called out Goldman Sachs as well for forecasting mortgage rates months from now, stating, “No one has ever been very good at forecasting mortgage interest rates more than a couple of weeks in advance.

“This includes the Mortgage Bankers Association and it especially includes Goldman Sachs whose track-record on interest rate forecasts is extremely poor,” the Cromford Report continued. “This is not saying much because there is no one who gets them right more than by random chance.

“Any time spent listening to people making interest rate forecasts is time you could have spent more productively.” 

This 3,042-square-foot home on S. 24th Place in Ahwatukee was one of the top sellers in the last half of January at $836,500. The two-story home, built in 1989, has five bedrooms and three baths backing into the

Phoenix contemplates mandatory water line insurance

It’s the last thing a Phoenix homeowner may think about but when it happens, a broken water or sewer line can create an expensive nightmare.

That’s why Phoenix joined a National League of Cities joined the Service Line Warranties of America by HomeServe in a partnership “to educate property owners about their service line responsibilities and to help residents avoid out-of-pocket expenses for unanticipated and potentially costly service line repairs and replacements,” according to a memo to Phoenix City Council from by Deputy City Manager Ginger Spencer.

Calling Phoenix “one of the program’s early adopters,” Spencer noted that the city is now one of 1,000 municipalities and

utilities participating in the program nationwide.”

While the program has been voluntary for single-family homeowners, the department is asking the council to consider making it mandatory.

Single-family and other homeowners are responsible to pay for repairs and replacements of broken lines between the city water meter and their home.

The voluntary insurance covers two kinds of breaks under two separate policies whose policy cost is tacked onto their monthly bill from the Water Services Department.

For $7.95 a month, they can cover damage to their water line up to $8,500 per claim. There is no limit on the number of claims that can be filed in any given year –though only one break can be covered per claim and no more than $8,500 worth of

repairs would be covered.

The same claims restrictions exist for the policy covering septic and sewer line breaks between a meter and the home. That policy costs another $9.45 per month.

According to Spencer, the city’s 10-year partnership with the insurer to date has generated $ million in revenue for the city and covered $7.4 million worth of repairs totaling 13,461. A total 27,324 homeowners participate in the program.

In suggesting that Council may want to consider making the policy mandatory for all Water Services customers, Spencer said HomeServe has created two new programs “that would provide water and sewer line coverage for all Phoenix homes in the event of a water or sewer line emergency instead of the current opt-in program.

“HomeServe also offers a Water Leak Ad-

justment Program for Phoenix residential customers that would cover actual water leaks in addition to water and sewer line repairs,” she added. “This would require participation by all Phoenix single-family residential customers. Both programs can be explored further and considered as future partnership opportunities.

The programs were scheduled to be discussed at a Feb. 1 meeting of the council’s Community and Cultural Investment Subcommittee but immediate action is not considered likely.

Meanwhile, homeowners interested in signing up for the voluntary program can go to slwofa.com or call 1-844-257-8795. Additionally, residents can enroll by sending in the enrollment form that comes in the information letters that SLWA sends to Phoenix homeowners periodically. 

Homeowners can add health/wellness rooms for buyers appeal

In the “before times,” homeowners probably didn’t think much about the importance of a mudroom for dropping bags and shedding shoes before entering the main house. The same goes for special antimicrobial surfaces or tech-driven details like touchless taps.

Yet, ever since the COVID-19 pandemic roared through lives, health and wellness features have become top-of-mind in home design. And it looks like many of them are here to stay.

These wellness perks are often touted in listings as must-haves—and higher home prices might reflect these “healthy” upgrades. So are they worth the extra dough?

For some help sussing out which well-

ness bells and whistles are worth a second look at during house hunting, buyers may want to consider the following: Touchless toilets and faucets. Germs and bacteria literally travel hand in hand in the bathroom, which is why touchless fixtures and lights are appealing details to find in a home listing. This is also a wellness feature that’s worth snagging if a family has kids since they know their hand-washing isn’t always up to par.

And taps that shut off automatically when not in use save a ton of water.

Marie Bromberg, a real estate broker, went down the touchless route herself but cautions others who might be on the verge of paying more for the amenity.

“I quickly discovered this is one more thing that can break down—and does,” she said. “And the last thing you want is

a toilet that can’t be easily flushed.” Saltwater pool. A home with a pool will cost a buyer more since the added value of the property increases about 7% when it comes time to list. But a buyer might want to pony up if the pool in question is of the saltwater variety.

The benefits of this water type include a softer, less irritating feel on skin and less redness in the eyes. Another huge plus: The need for chlorine and other harsh chemicals is eliminated, which means much less risk of accidental exposure to pets and kids (plus less chemical stink).

Bromberg votes for the extra cost when it comes to saltwater since the choice brings the pool to “a totally different level of amenity” and notes that maintaining one is only minimally more expensive than a regular pool.

Multifunctional wellness room. Did the seller seem to tack on extra thousands for what’s being billed as a “meditation zone” in the listing? A whole room dedicated to deep breathing is nice, but it might not be worth the cash up front. Of course, if the rest of the house meets every need, a buyer can always convert the space into a TV room, home office, or extra bedroom—all of which are more flexible than an area reserved just for yogis.

At the higher end of the real estate market, multifunctional rooms like these are now permanent features, notes Tony Mariotti, a real state agent and owner of RubyHome in Los Angeles.

In fact, “many luxury homes in L.A. priced at $5,000,000 and up have dedicat-

Tapesty Canyon - Front Tapestry Canyon - Back Majestic Southwest contemporary

Sanctuary - Front Sanctuary - Back

Mike Mendoza

re

Mortgage rates are down again this week, which means things are looking up for homebuyers.

The average rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage ticked down 2 basis points to 6.13%, according to Freddie Mac, continuing a pattern of rates seesawing lower since topping 7% in the fall. In fact, mortgage rates are at their lowest levels since mid-September 2022.

Yet, while lower borrowing costs are a boon for homebuyers, few seem to be pouncing on this opportunity as they might have a year or two earlier.

“As we move into the new year, housing market data continues to suggest that buyers are relatively sluggish as the total number of homes for sale climbs higher and homes spend more days on market,” noted Realtor.com Chief Economist Dani-

elle Hale in her analysis for the week ending Jan. 21.

“After unprecedented urgency to find and close on a home in 2021 and 2022, buyers in today’s housing market are clearly operating under a different set of expectations and a much greater measure of patience.”

Why aren’t homebuyers moving on this mortgage rate reprieve with more gusto— and what might it mean for homebuying this year?

The further mortgage rates dip, the less of a fluke these lower rates appear to be.

And for this, we can thank easing inflation.

“This is the first time after nearly two years that the inflation rate is finally lower than it was the previous year,” explained Nadia Evangelou, senior economist and director of real estate research at the National Association of Realtors.

As a result, she predicts, “Mortgage rates may fall even further in the following weeks as investors expect the Federal Reserve to take a smaller rate hike in February.”

Lower inflation rates might spell good news not just for mortgage rates, but also for home prices (more on that next).

For the week ending Jan. 21, listing prices were 7.3% higher than this same week last year. While still up, this would be considered a more “normal” price gain than the frothiness of the COVID-19 pandemic period, when prices were expanding week

after week by double digits.

December 2022, with its median listing price of $400,000, marked a noteworthy milestone: It’s the first month in a year when year-over-year prices were higher by only single digits.

While today’s slower price gains is good news for homebuyers, so far, they aren’t feeling all that inspired to snap up the goods.

Homes have lingered on the market 14 days longer than this same time last year, marking six full months of properties taking longer to sell than a year earlier.

see

This is especially true for first-timers, Hale noted, who “are navigating what can be a daunting process even for experienced shoppers.”

On the flip side, Hale added, “Homeowners looking to sell in 2023 will want to be mindful of the slower market pace to set their expectations accordingly.”

Your home might not sell in the first hour it hits the market, in other words— and that’s OK.

APPEAL fRom Re3

ed wellness rooms with lots of space for yoga mats and massage tables,” he said. Antimicrobial surfaces. Gleaming metals are eye-catching. And some of them, like copper and brass (a mix of copper and zinc), offer antimicrobial properties.

A copper sink in a bar area or half-bath or brass doorknobs in multiple rooms

As for prospective home sellers who might be thinking about listing their homes, they, too, seem to be biding their time.

For the week ending Jan. 21, 5% fewer homes were listed for sale than the same week a year earlier, marking the 29th straight week of declines. That said, homebuyers have plenty to shop for with active listings up 69%.

By February, Hale thinks, more owners might be inclined to sell their homes, which would be a welcome development for the market.

might up the price a tiny amount. Yet the payoff might be worth it to have natural germ-fighting materials built right in.

Still, Bromberg wouldn’t rush at a listing with this feature since a ton of copper “is a distinctive look that could be overwhelming.”

A better bet? Sealants.

“Many people are now accustomed to antibacterial/microbial sprays and sealants, so if the finishes you see have

As for what to expect, Evangelou thinks this spring’s homebuying season will perk up, although not quite as much as the past couple of years when mortgage rates hit record lows right while people itching to move hit pandemic highs.

“Generally, home sales activity increases by 33% in March compared to February,” said Evangelou. “However, in the last couple of years, activity was even busier due to low mortgage rates. Even though rates were rising last March, many buyers were rushing to benefit from the 4% rates dur-

these, they’re a more affordable alternative,” she said.

Air filtration system. A closed HVAC system can be a boon for folks with respiratory conditions like asthma and allergies. But this might not be a wellness feature you want to shell out for, said Bromberg.

“Even if a bidder appreciates an airfiltering system and it tips them in your favor, it still may not mean they’ll pay a lot extra for it,” she explained.

ing that time.”

“Given low affordability and inventory, activity may not ramp up so fast in the spring season this year, but it will definitely be busier than it currently is,” Evangelou said. “Meanwhile, a stronger housing market could help the U.S. economy to skirt a recession.”

In other words, a strong economy and a strong housing market appear to go hand in hand, and could very well be on the horizon.

Realtor.com provided this report. 

Yet for some buyers, this upgrade might seal the deal.

Realtor Andy Feiwell says he recently sold a home with dual zone AC and heat with ultraviolet antimicrobial treatment and an electronic dust filter.

“It was designed with the owner’s health issues in mind,” he said. “But it also translated well for marketing purposes and was very attractive as a wellness feature, too.” 

SPOOTLIGHT TLIGHT home

AHWATUKEE CUSTOM ESTATES

STUNNING SINGLE LEVEL CUSTOM ESTATE LOCATED ON A HUGE LOT AT THE END OF A CUL-DE-SAC WITH A 6-CAR GARAGE*GATED DRIVEWAY*COMPLETELY REMODELED WITH THE HIGHEST QUALITY FINISHES*EVERYTHING IS NEW*GRAND FOYER*LIVING ROOM W/FIREPLACE*FORMAL DINING ROOM*FAMILY ROOM W/FIREPLACE & FULL WETBAR*KITCHEN INCLUDES CUSTOM CABINETRY,RARE QUARTZSITE COUNTERS,THERMADOR APPLIANCES,BUILTIN FRIDGE/FREEZER,ISLAND,& WALK-IN PANTRY*LARGE MASTER SUITE*MASTER BATH W/ STEAM SHOWER,JACUZZI TUB,HIS/HER VANITIES, & WALK-IN CLOSET*MEDIA ROOM*EXERCISE ROOM*GAMEROOM*GIGANTIC PARADISE BACKYARD INCLUDES:PEBBLESHEEN POOL & JACUZZI,TWO GRASS AREAS,SPORT COURT, AND STUNNING SOUTH MOUNTAIN VIEWS*BACKS & SIDES TO WASH WITH COMPLETE PRIVACY*A 6-CAR GARAGE

5 bedroom, 5.5 bath, 5704sqft almost 1 acre lot

Listed for $2,750,000

AHWATUKEE CUSTOM ESTATES

Impressive home with mountain views in highly coveted Ahwatukee Custom Estates. Dramatic entrance showcases Cantera fireplace in living room. Additional two-way fireplace between kitchen and family room. Eat-in kitchen boasts granite countertops, soft-close raised-panel cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, desk, pantry and wet bar. Travertine and wood flooring throughout. Custom wrought iron stair railing. Spacious master suite features access to oversized covered view balcony. Separate workout and hobby rooms accessible via deck. Huge laundry room with cabinetry and sink. 3-car garage with cabinetry and workshop with air conditioning. Private backyard with flagstone, covered patio, Pebble Tec pool and spa, putting green, pizza oven, lush landscaping and professional multi-sport “sport court” with basketball and pickleball.

Listed for $1,395,000

West USA Realty

Mortgage buy-downs require guidance from professionals

pairs or furniture.

Tough financial times call for creative financing. Historically high mortgage rates and a cooling housing market have caused buyers and sellers to look for novel ways to stretch their dollar and seal a deal.

Buyers, scared by lofty mortgage rates that threaten to add hundreds of dollars to their monthly housing bill, are seeking out mortgage buy-downs as a way to trim some of that excess. Sellers, desperate to unload homes, are often willing to help out.

Simply put, a mortgage rate buy-down is upfront money, often paid by the home seller (builders and lenders can also front the cost), to “buy down” the interest rate on the buyer’s loan for a period of time. This temporarily eases a buyer’s mortgage woes.

But just how practical are mortgage buy-downs for homebuyers?

Realtor.com asked experts for insight into the benefits and drawbacks of a mortgage buy-down. Here’s what they had to say.

Pro: Lower monthly bills.

There are different types of buy-downs, but all of them lower your interest rate.

“While these funds are temporary, they immediately lower buyers’ monthly payments, making homeownership more affordable in the short term,” said Shri Ganeshram, who works with real estate investors on financing as CEO of Awning.com.

Con: When the buy-down expires, regular payments may come as a shock.

One of the biggest downsides of a buydown is that it’s temporary. A buy-down will offer homebuyers a lower monthly mortgage payment for a set period of time, typically one to three years. But once the buy-down expires, your bills could become a lot heftier.

“When the initial buy-down period ends, your interest rate may reset to a higher rate than before,” said Shaun Martin, owner and CEO of We Buy Houses.

If this does happen, it may defeat the purpose of the buy-down and potentially lead to more costly payments down the line. It’s a risk that buyers have to consider and should discuss with their lender.

Pro: They can provide cash flow for re-

As every homeowner knows, moving into a new home—no matter how perfect it might seem initially, and no matter how many furnishings you already have on hand—often entails a series of unexpected fixes and furniture buys. The break you’ll get on your mortgage bill courtesy of a buy-down can leave you with some cash on hand.

“Buy-downs can be especially valuable for investors or owners who need to make repairs to the home or furnish it,” Ganeshram said.

Con: Not all lenders offer buy-downs, and terms vary.

Buy-downs are not offered universally, and when they are offered, one lender’s terms might differ considerably from another’s in the same region.

“Not all lenders will offer mortgage buydowns, so you may need to shop around,” Martin said. “Additionally, the terms of buy-downs can vary from lender to lender, so it is important to do your research and find one that best meets your needs.”

Weighing the pros and cons

Whether or not a buy-down is right for you might also depend on your timeline and how long you plan to live in the home.

“If you’re planning on selling your home in a few years, a buy-down is a smart move,” said Emmanuel Guignard, senior mortgage broker and director of Loanscope. “But if you don’t have a steady income and are planning on living in the house long term, you may struggle to make the repayments.”

When making this momentous decision, it’s important to consult professionals.

“My advice is to consult a mortgage professional and understand the terms and conditions of the buy-down, including the buy-down period, the increase in payments after the period, and the costs associated with the buy-down before making a decision,” Ganeshram said. “Ask them to do a calculation of how much you would save on the monthly payment in total versus how much they are asking you to commit upfront.”

Buy now, pay later is great in theory. But in practice, it depends on how much a buyer needs to pay back and whether he or she has the cash to cover it.

(Realtor.com provided this report) 

SOLD!

dining, family room w/canterra fireplace, kitchen incs :slab granite,alder cabinets,s/s wolf appliances,gas cooktop,miele dishwasher,copper sinks,island, & subzero, most amazing custom stonework ever seen in ahwatukee consisting of marble,canterra,travertine, & granite, large master ste w/sitting area & 2 separate full baths, his/her alder & cedar lined closets, guest suite-2nd master w/ensuite bath & courtyard, extremely private backyard w/covered patio, pebbletec pool w/waterfalls, firepots, firepit, grassy play area, & fully equipped outdoor kitchen, fruit trees inc: apple, orange, lemon, & lime, this dream estate has it all!

Canyon Verde

The best view lot in all of club west!!! this stunning custom gated estate in canyon verde has the best privacy & views you will find in ahwatukee*grand foyer*formal living & dining room*executive office*kitchen includes: custom cabinets w/ antiquing, s/s appliances, cooktop, island, breakfast bar, pendant lighting, & walk-in pantry*butler’s pantry w/wine fridge*family room w/fireplace*upgraded fixtures throughout*large master suite w/sitting area*master bath w/jetted tub, snail shower, & spacious closet*guest suite w/separate entrance*all secondary bedrooms are large*paradise perfect backyard w/covered patio, pebbletec pool & spa, firepit, built-in bbq, flagstone, and putting

Mountain Park Ranch

Ahwatukee Custom Estates

$1,750,000

Foothills $499,000

Amazing Remodeled Custom Estate with mountain views located at the end of a cul-de-sac.Over 8000sqft of pure luxury finishes.6

Bedroom,5.5 Baths.Custom Kitchen.Elevator.Executive Office.Basement Media Room.Dance Studio.Huge Backyard with Pool, Jacuzzi, Turf, BBQ, Sportcourt.This Spectacular Estate has it all!!! SOLD!

One of the most amazing lots available in ahwatukee!! Located in foothills mountain ranch estates!! Over 5 acre hillside lot with stunning mountain views from every direction*build your dream custom estate or build multiple homes on this sight*zoned r3*the possibilities are endless on this rare opportunity*there is not another piece of land in ahwatukee that offers this many buildable acres*no hoa*located at the end of a cul-de-sac*be the king of the hill with views all the way to four peaks*plans available and other custom home options available from a well know ahwatukee custom home builder*do not miss this amazing hillside lot in an amazing location!!!!

# 1

cabinets, and a center island with a breakfast bar.

5 bedroom / 3 bath, 3,506 SqFt, Cul-de-sac location with huge backyard, sports court, built-in BBQ, mature shade trees, very private backing to wash. Good size bedrooms, master downstai5. Features a large office with balcony, plus office/loft with built-in bookcase and 3 full baths. Th� home is perfect for family gatherings and entertaining. Can be previewed with 24 hour notice and appointment only.

Marty Gri n 602-692-7653

Donna Leeds � GRI, ABR lf"fl! 949.310.5673

Ahwatukee Agent 2020

& laundry. There is a 2’ extension in garage w/ built in cabinets, plus an RV gate. Gather in this beautiful backyard offering a covered patio, cozy pergola, and manicured landscape. Marty Gri n 602-692-7653 martygri n@q.com $525,000 Ahwatukee Come True 1986 5 bedroom / 3 bath, 3,506 SqFt, Cul-de-sac location with huge backyard, sports court, built-in BBQ, mature shade trees, very private backing to wash. Good size bedrooms, master downstai5. Features a large office with balcony, plus office/loft with built-in bookcase and 3 full baths. Th� home is perfect for family gatherings and entertaining. Can be previewed with 24 hour notice and appointment only. Donna Leeds � GRI, ABR lf"fl! 949.310.5673 wwwBestAgentWUSA.com SOLD! AGENTS...THINKING OF A CHANGE? CALL TO SCHEDULE A CONFIDENTIAL INTERVIEW TO LEARN WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU! DONNA LEEDS • 480.893.0600 • DLEEDS@WESTUSA.COM SOLD! PENDING

Maricopa

to Golf, Restaurants, Shopping, the I-10 and Medical Facilities. Sit on your extended covered patio and watch the sun set. Enjoy all the amenities of the Ahwatukee Recreation Center with a large outdoor pool, heated indoor saltwater pool, Sauna, Spa, Gym, woodworking shop and more!

Troy Royston

480-435-3461

troyston61@gmail.com

The Sun Groves Fantastic opportunity to own this gorgeous single-level home! This beauty is conveniently located near parks, schools, and shopping spots. Discover a welcoming interior with a carpeted living and dining room, a neutral palette, archways, and lots of natural light great for interior plants. Practice your cooking skills in this well-kept kitchen fully equipped with built-in appliances, recessed lighting, plenty of counter space, honey oak

Redwood Estates

Prepare to be impressed by the spacious open layout showcasing tile flooring, neutral palette, dramatic vaulted ceilings, soft carpet in all the right places, and beautiful plantation shutters. This home is highly upgraded including bay windows in both dining area & master bedrooms, granite counter top & upgraded raised-panel maple cabinets w/ crown molding in kitchen

Home, sweet meticulously maintained home! 4 bed ‘’plus’’ a den and 3 bath! All nestled on a giant quiet cul-de-sac lot. Beautiful bright living area showcasing neutral tile flooring, designer palette, dramatic vaulted ceilings, arched doorways, & sliding glass doors leading to the giant backyard. The spotless

Mike Foley

480-216-7878

Vistancia $700,252 SOLD!

upgraded doors and windows.

Carlos Martinez

480-751-8866

teammartinez11@gmail.com

Copper Creek

Gorgeous newer build with a spectacular back yard for your family! TLC abounds with many upgraded features: Hi-end plantation shutters, newer appliances, new paint, stunning cabinets and completely re-landscaped front and back. Enjoy those family great times in the highly upgraded north-facing back yard. Custom Sunburst shutters, dual pane windows and newer AC. Large Master suite with Beautiful Bay Window & Walk-in closet provide plenty of room for your bedroom set & sitting area. Nice views of the South Mountain Preserve.

Link Pa enbarger

602-989-7221

linkpa @gmail.com

Parade entry forms have been mailed to over 300 local businesses, groups and previous parade entries. But those who haven’t received one can call 480-759-0007 or email: msch0007@aol.com.

For more Spring Fling information call 602-402-6267 or email andi@wttaz.com. Forms are available at ahwatukeekiwanis.org.

Transportation Day coming soon to God’s Garden Preschool

The popular Transportation Day sponsored by God’s Garden Preschool and Kindergarten will be held 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 11 on its grounds, 1401 E. Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee.

The free event gives kids a chance to inspect dozens of utility and other vehicles, such as fire trucks, police cars, and other vehicles. The free event also will have bouncy houses, pony rides, train rides and other activities.

Businesses also have sponsorship opportunities and can find more information at transportationday.com.

Valentines Day bash planned at Cactus Jack’s next Wednesday

Cactus Jacks Bar & Grill, 48th Street and Elliot Road, in Ahwatukee is hosting its annual Valentines Dance Party starting at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 8 with line dancing lessons and open dancing.

Treats and raffles are in store and the admission is $5.

Information: Carrie at cmcneish@cox.net or dancemeetsfitness.net.

Ironwood

Library offers free activities for all ages in Ahwatukee

Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee, presents a variety of programs for children, teens and adults. Unless otherwise noted, free tickets are required and available 30 minutes before programs’ start times at the library’s information desk.

For more information: phoenixpubliclibrary.org.

Babytimes

Babies ages birth to 23 months, accompanied by a favorite adult, will enjoy songs, rhymes, books, and interactive fun Tuesdays, 10:30-11:10 a.m. Space is limited to 12 families.

Toddlertimes

Toddlers ages 24-36 months, accompanied by a favorite adult, will enjoy songs, rhymes, books, and interactive fun Thursdays, 10:30-11:10 a.m. Space is limited to 12 families.

Sit, Stay, Read!

Young readers & listeners can sign up for reading time with a registered therapy dog/handler team. Read with Elsa 4-5 p.m. every Tuesday.

Family storytime at Pecos Park

Children birth to age five and their favorite grownups play, read, sing, and dance in a fun, active program that builds reading skills. Every Friday, 9:30-10 a.m., outdoors at Pecos Park, 17010 S. 48th St. No tickets required. Supported by a grant from First Things First.

Sit, Stay, Read!

Young readers & listeners can sign up for reading time with a registered therapy dog/handler team. Read with Elsa every Tuesday, 4-5 p.m. Read with Raven every Thursday, 4-5 p.m.

Full STEAM Ahead

Children ages 6-12 explore hands-on creative ways to design, experiment, and invent Saturdays, 2-3 p.m., in this Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (STEAM) program. Go Full STEAM Ahead on Feb. 25. No tickets required.

Bicycle Safety Rodeo

Families, hop on your bikes and pedal to the library to learn safe cycling tips from John Boyd, Injury Prevention Specialist at Phoenix Children’s. Then practice your safety skills on our bicycle course. No bike? No problem! We will have bicycles for kids ages 11 & younger to borrow. We’ll also have a bike helmet give-away, while supplies last. Feb. 25, 9-11 a.m. No tickets required.

Join Ironwood’s Library Teen Council!

We’re looking for teens ages 12-17 who would like to help us organize programs, create displays, and improve the library experience for all library users! Participating in our library teen council is a great opportunity for those wanting experience in a work environment for school, scholarship, or job applications.

Online volunteer applications are available at volunteer.phoenix.gov. Under “Browse by Interest” choose “Library,” in the “Keyword” box type “Ironwood,” and

complete the appropriate application. A volunteer coordinator will notify applicants when the first meeting will take place. Monthly meeting are on Fridays, 3:30-4:30 p.m Feb. 3 & March 3.

Paper Crafts

Adults and teens can learn a new papercraft the first Wednesday of each month. The group will be starting with flowers and all materials will be provided. Feb. 1 and March 1, 4:30-5:30 p.m. No tickets required.

Sit and Stitch

Join fellow stitchers on the first Saturday of each month, Feb 4, 3-4:45 p.m. Knitting, crocheting, crossstitch, needlepoint…all are welcome! No tickets required.

Next Chapter Book Club

This inclusive community-based book club is designed for people ages 12+ with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have a desire to make friends, explore their community, and read (regardless of current reading ability). This weekly gathering is free and occurs every Wednesday, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Registration is required and available in the library or online in the Calendar section of the library’s website.

Book Club

Adult readers 18+ can meet up with fellow adventuresome bibliophiles to share their thoughts about each month’s selection the first Wednesday of each month, 5:00-5:45 p.m. No tickets required. On Feb. 1 the group will discuss A Woman of No Importance by Sonia Purnell, and on March 1, The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles. 

Ahwatukee business offers pet rescue classes

An Ahwatukee pet groomer and pet tech trainer has founded a new business to teach pet owners how to administer COPR to their furry friends.

Malinda Malone founded The Frontline Coalition in recognition of the estimated 58% of Arizona residents who have a pet.

It’s not just saving pets that Malone teaches.

The Frontline Coalition uses handson and scenario-based training to teach CPR for adults, children, infants and pets, to Basic life support, automated external defibrillator certification, basic first aid, active shooter training and advanced bleeding control.

Malone has scheduled several classes for pet owners on emergency procedures they can take if their pet is in crisis.

“How many know how to react if their

pet is under cardiac arrest and stops breathing?” she said. “Pets are part of the family and if they’re experiencing an emergency it will often be too late by the time you make it to your vet, or in the worst-case scenario, an emergency veterinary clinic.

“And that’s why it’s vital for pet owners to be their pet’s first responders,” said Malone, a former reserve police officer who helped to found two universities’ campus safety departments.

“Any number of unforeseen circumstances can result in the need for CPR –such as choking, poison, trauma, or even allergic reactions,” she noted.

Each Pet CPR class at The Frontline Coalition will include over 50 skills to help be prepared in the event of a pet emergency, including: rescue breathing & CPR for dogs & cats, hands-on simulated training, basic restraint & muzzling,

see FRONTLINE page 30

New ER vet lets people, pets stick together during visits

BY GERI KOEPPEL AFN Contributor

An innovative veterinary emergency clinic has opened near the border of Ahwatukee Foothills in Chandler, filling a need in those communities and many more.

Veterinary Emergency Group opened its 38th location in the nation and first in Arizona last month at 7210 W. Ray Road just east of the I-10 freeway, near Bevmo. Though there are 24-hour urgent care vets in Scottsdale, Gilbert, Mesa, Phoenix and elsewhere, there was nothing close to the Ahwatukee area.

“That’s what we heard when we landed here is there’s no hospital to serve this little pocket,” said Dr. Tara Murphy, medical director for Veterinary Emergency Group—Chandler. “I think we definitely served a need in this location.”

Not only is the hospital more convenient for those in Ahwatukee and west Chandler, it also offers a new, peopleand pet-forward approach to care.

The founder of Veterinary Emergency Group, Dr. David Bessler, has been an emergency veterinarian since 2003 and started the business in 2014 with an open concept plan.

“He saw that that stress was there when people had to hand over the pets to the back room,” Murphy said. “Being able to keep them together was his vision.”

When a pet and owner arrive, they walk into a large, open room with exam tables, kennels, a pharmacy and staff all visible—there’s no whisking away pets behind closed doors, which raises anxiety for them and their owners. Instead, they see a veterinarian immediately.

see VET page 30

Ahwatukee pet groomer Malinda Malone founded The Frontline Coalition to teach pet owners how to administer CPR to their animals. (Special to AFN)

Stephanie Cosand and Mickey Casto of Arizona City’s Chihuahua mix, Teddy, was feeling better after a recent visit to Veterinary Emergency Group in Chandler.

(Geri Koeppel/AFN Contributor)

Ortiz, Woldahl accept limited partnerships

Joseph B. Ortiz, an Edward Jones financial advisor in Ahwatukee, accepted an invitation to increase his current limited partnership holdings, while Karen Woldahl, a senior branch office administrator, accepted an invitation to become a limited partner in The Jones Financial Companies, L.L.L.P., the holding company for the St. Louis-based financial services firm.

“I am honored to be invited to become a limited partner in the firm,” said Wol-

FRONTLINE from page 29

what is normal for a cat or dog and how to identify an emergency, an explanation of shock, choking issues, splinting & bandaging, insect & snake bites, hypothermia & heat stroke, the importance of dental care and how to support a senior pet.

Classes are offered at 3820 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee at the following times and dates: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 5, and on Feb. 25; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 4.

Class prices range from $100 - $185 per person, including the class only or the class plus a take-home first aid kit. To register: thefrontlinecoalition.com.

“It is important to know what to do in

VET from page 29

“It helps to know that even if there’s a wait,” Murphy said, “there’s a doctor who will see you and have eyes on you from the moment you get in.”

Another difference is that the vets often sit on the floor with patients. “Most animals are more comfortable on the ground, rather than trying to put them on the table, which is scary and unnatural to them,” Murphy noted.

People stay with their pets throughout the process. If surgery is necessary, they can watch through a large window or even scrub up and enter the surgical room, if they wish. If a high-strung pet is more comfortable in a private exam room—like cats, for instance—those are available.

dahl. “I value working at a firm with such a strong sense of purpose -- to make a positive difference for our clients, colleagues and community.”

Ortiz joined Edward Jones in 2008 and has served investors in Ahwatukee for the past 14 years. Karen Woldahl joined Edward Jones in 2013.

Edward Jones currently employs 50,000 associates throughout the United States and through its affiliate in Canada. This is the firm’s 18th limited partnership offering in its 100-year history.

The Jones Financial Companies,

an emergency and have some muscle memory from practicing hands-on CPR,” said Malone, who also is a certified animal behavior college dog trainer, certified AVERT instructor and certified HSI instructor for CPR/AED.

“You never know when an emergency will occur and who will be affected, Malone said. “A variety of emergency medical situations may require CPR, including suffocation, smoke inhalation, cardiac arrest, heart attack, near-drownings, accidents, choking, and poisonings.

“With proper CPR training, you can begin administering CPR to the cardiac arrest victim right away to increase the chance of survival,” she said. 

L.L.L.P. was created in 1987 to enable the firm to expand into new business areas while allowing it to remain a partnership.

The Jones Financial Companies, L.L.L.P. owns Edward D. Jones & Companies, L.L.L.P., which operates under the trade name Edward Jones, as well as other affiliates including the Edward Jones Trust Company, Olive Street Investment Advisors, LLC, Edward Jones SBL, LLC, and an international financial services subsidiary in Canada.

Edward Jones is a leading financial ser-

vices firm in the U.S. and through its affiliate in Canada. The firm’s nearly 19,000 financial advisors serve more than 8 million clients with a total of $1.6 trillion in client assets under care in 2022.

“Edward Jones’ purpose is to partner for positive impact to improve the lives of its clients and colleagues, and together, better our communities and society,” Ortiz said.

Information: edwardjones.com. Its recruiting website is careers.edwardjones.com. 

On a recent afternoon, Mickey Casto and Stephanie Cosand of Arizona City were at the clinic with their Chihuahua mix, Teddy, whom they brought in two days prior with gastrointestinal upset from an unknown cause. “He came in on his side almost non-

responsive and now he’s walking,” Murphy said, adding that Teddy was weak,

with low blood sugar. “We had to rehydrate him and supplement glucose.”

Cosand said they’ve taken their pets to other good vets in the East Valley, but they prefer Veterinary Emergency Group because it’s not only the closest to them, which is important when an animal is in distress, but they like being able to stay as long as they like.

“They’ve never told us it’s time to go home,” Cosand said. “Yesterday, we were here for nine hours.”

Casto was also impressed with the treatment, adding, “We’ve seen some really bad cases come in. It’s unreal how quick and efficient everything is.”

The hospital can dispense many medications to patients from its on-site pharmacy and works with primary care vets on sharing records, Murphy said. “People are more comfortable when they know there’s that collaboration,” she remarked.

Students at The Frontline Coalition’s classes learn life-saving techniques with stuffed animals. (Special to AFN)

Veterinary nurse Courtney Brown (left) and Dr. Tara Murphy, medical director of the Chandler location of Veterinary Emergency Group, take Teddy’s vital signs. (Geri Koeppel/AFN Contributor)

Gummi World opens in Chandler as it eyes future growth

BY KEN SAIN Managing Editor

First off, there’s one question the people who work at Gummi World, a new manufacturing plant in Chandler, hear all the time.

“We don’t do any CBD,” said Dr. Seemab Zaman, the director of quality and regulatory affairs for Gummi World of cannabidiol the second most prevalent active ingredient in cannabis.

It does not cause a high by itself, according to Harvard Health. Still, CBD gummies are popular because they lower anxiety and will make you sleepy, but they don’t give the same high as THC, the active ingredient in marijuana.

“All the time,” Zaman said when asked if they get that question a lot. “They’re like, ‘Oh, you did CBD.’ We’re like, ‘No, we are specifically dietary supplements.’”

Gummi World started in 2019 in Tempe, but has outgrown that location. Zaman said the company liked the probusiness attitude in Chandler and that’s the main reason they ended up moving their factory to the city’s west side.

The Tempe factory was 35,000 square feet. The new Chandler location is 55,000.

Zaman, and Christina Wessel, the research and development manager, said they need the extra space because of the

growth they’ve already experienced, to say nothing about future growth.

They hope to go international soon.

So if they don’t do CBD, what does Gummi World do?

“We do vitamins and botanicals and minerals,” Zaman said.

Gummi World does not put out its own line of products but rather supplies the products for other companies.

“We are unique in the sense that we actually have a R&D on site,” Zaman said of research and development. “Because gummies are such a different form of getting your vitamins and minerals, that you have to have that R&D right.”

The company also manufactures the gummies and then ships them to wherever the customers want them.

Zaman said handling both R&D and manufacturing makes Gummi World unique. Many of its competitors require customers do their own research and development.

“Almost everyone wants to make whatever they’re making it a capsule and put it in a gummi” Wessel said. “Every-

one is kind of going towards the gummy route right now.”

“And the reason for that is because gummies are tastier than a capsule,” Zaman said. “They’re easy to swallow. They’re chewable, so many people don’t like the idea of a giant capsule, or soft gel or tablet. And gummies seem to be an easier route to be able to get the same type of botanicals and vitamins and minerals that your body needs in a more fun way.”

Gummi World moved to West Chandler in September, but construction was still underway. It didn’t host an official grand opening until last month. The company employs about 50 people now, but is slowly ramping up as it prepares to go international.

To do that, it needed to get a lot of certifications.

“There was a company that’s a global company that wanted to make gummies,” Zaman said. “And they’re like, ‘as soon as we get your halal certification, we will definitely want to make gummies with you guys.’ So there is potential there.”

Gummi World is now halal certified, kosher certified, or-

ganic certified, non-genetically modified certified, and – most importantly – GMP certified. That Good Manufacturing Practice, which lets consumers and clients know everything is manufactured using best practices. is essential if you want to do business internationally, Zaman explained.

Still, all the certifications won’t matter if the gummies don’t taste good – which is Wessel’s job to make that happen.

A client comes to them and tells them what they want to make and sell.

“We have to tell them our limitations,” Wessel said. “Usually they want to do like some crazy amounts of milligrams in a gummi. And it’s like, well, we can only fit this amount. And you know, our job for R&D is to make sure that it’s a great tasting gummi.”

They taste test all of their gummies, and Wessel said there are times when they know a gummi will not work.

How do they make a great tasting product when someone wants to make a gummi out of ashwagandha, a herb found in India and Africa that seems to help people deal with stress and anxiety?

“It’s kind of about flavoring and making sure the flavors pair well with what we’re putting in,” Wessel said. “Like we did this ashwagandha gummi that has kind of a darker note to it. So we paired it with a darker berry to kind of play with that.” 

Seemab Zaman, N.D., director of quality and regulatory affairs for Gummi World, a new custom recipe vitamin and supplement manufacturing facility in Chandler, is excited about the company’s new location. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

The pots of a gummi-making machine rest in one of the clean production rooms at Gummi World’s Chandler facility. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

Quality control samples in the lab at Gummi World stand on a shelf. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

Three advance IRA strategies aren’t

4BY DR. HAROLD WONG AFN Guest Writer

There are three advanced IRA strategies that are rarely used.

The Roth IRA allows tax-free income from your investments. The Multi-Generational IRA can double income for your heirs. The Self-Directed IRA allows you to invest in alternatives (such as direct real estate, equipment leasing, and private lending) to Wall Street investments.

Ticking tax time bomb: For 30 years, you contribute $10,000 a year to an IRA or 401(k). You are lucky and it grows to $1 million by age 63. You are in a 25% tax bracket and the $300,000 total deductions saves you $75,000 in taxes.

The entire $1 million is taxable as ordinary income when you pull it out to spend in retirement. You got no benefit of a lower long-term capital gains tax rate if your stock market investments grew from the $300,000 contributed to

the $1 million at retirement.

You don’t need the money at age 63 and it doubles to $2 million at age 73. If you and your spouse both passed away that year the $2 million would go to your kids and adds to their normal taxable income.

At a 40% tax rate, that’s $800,000 of taxes vs. the $75,000 you saved. The government wins big-time!

The only solution. By converting the $1 million at age 63 to a Roth IRA, you get two major benefits. All future earnings are tax-free for your life; your spouse’s life; and the first 10 years your kids inherit the Roth IRA. There are no required minimum distributions (RMDs), which start at age 73 for folks who reach that age this year.

However, only 2% of the folks I’ve met have $30,000 or more in Roth IRA funds. The reason is they can’t stand the pain of paying tax on a $500,000 Roth IRA Conversion, which creates $500,000 of taxable income that year.

What if there was a strategy that allows

you to do large Roth IRA Conversions without paying any federal income tax? Why stay in forever-taxed traditional IRAs and 401ks instead of never-taxed Roth IRAs?

Multi-Generational IRA. This allows your IRA to grow for three generations. However, the SECURE Act took effect on 1/01/2020 and limited delayed distributions of your IRA, after your death, to a maximum of 10 years to your heirs such as kids.

That 10-year delay is enough to double the IRA if your investments do well. In reality, most kids take your IRA funds right after the parents dies and are not aware of their options.

Self-Directed IRA. This allows access to alternative investments such as direct real estate, equipment leasing, and private lending instead of Wall Street stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. These alternatives can generate a 7-10% or more annual cash flow, which is at least three times what bank CDs, bonds, and stock dividends pay.

enough

Ask yourself: would life be better if I had $20,000 to $100,000+ more annual retirement income? This strategy is rarely utilized because there are few trustees that allow a true self-directed IRA.

Free seminar and supper: 10 a.m.noon, Feb. 25, Hyatt Place, 3535 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. The seminar is followed by a free catered lunch. Topic is “Secrets of Roth, Multi-Generational, and Self-Directed IRAs.”

Free Tour/Workshop: 9 a.m.-noon, March 4 at Solar Reefer (Refrigeration) Factory at Advanced Energy Machines, 4245 E. Norcroft St. Mesa. Topic is “How solar reefers can reduce taxes to zero and earn a steady 10-14%.” Refreshments served.

To RSVP for the seminars or schedule a free consultation, contact Dr. Harold Wong at (480) 706-0177 or harold_wong@hotmail.com. His website is drharoldwong.com. He earned his Ph.D. in economics at University of California/Berkeley and has appeared on over 400 TV/radio programs.

Veterinary Emergency Group only does emergency care—no speciality or primary care—and wait times fluctuate, as does pricing.

The cost is “so dependent on what the concerns are,” Murphy said. “We’re really open to working with people, and we’re really transparent. We will always provide full estimates of cost before proceeding with anything and discuss it with pet owners.”

The clinic accepts exotic pets as well as cats and dogs, and has seen guinea

pigs, hamsters, birds and a couple of bearded dragons so far, Murphy said. They do everything from treating ear infections to performing surgery to remove foreign objects.

“It’s amazing what pets will eat,” Murphy said. “Socks, underwear, pieces of their toys, rocks. Really, they’ll eat anything. And if it doesn’t pass through and it gets stuck in the intestines or the stomach, sometimes we have to go in and take it out.”

To help avoid a trip to the emergency vet, Murphy advises owners to look around their house and be aware of

anything pets can get into. Many plants and foods are toxic to pets, and common household objects, like rubber bands, can be dangerous.

“If there is ever any concern, give a call to an emergency vet if you’re not sure if your pet is in an emergent condition,” Murphy said. “We can often direct you.”

The response to Veterinary Emergency Group’s opening from the community has been “really positive,” Murphy remarked.

“I think people really appreciate being able to stay with their pets,” she

said. “It’s so stressful when your pet is not feeling well. So being able to stay with them the entire time takes one little piece of stress away. And so far, people have been really grateful for that.” 

Veterinary Emergency Group

Hours: Open 24 hours daily

Address: 7210 W. Ray Road, Chandler

Contact: 480-847-2570; veterinaryemergencygroup.com

Phoenix District 6 candidates write about city fiscal issues

To our readers

The Ahwatukee Foothills News has invited Phoenix City Council District 6 candidates Kevin Robinson and Sam Stone to write a column every week now through March 1. While on most weeks, candidates had the opportunity to write on a topic of their choice, AFN set two columns aside for them to address specific issues.

This week, they were asked to address this question: Is Phoenix going in the right direction fiscally?

Early voting for the March 13 runoff election begins Feb. 15 and the last day to register is Feb. 13. To register: elections.maricopa.gov/voter-registration/register-to-vote.

Robinson: City Hall’s fiscal moves have been sound and principled

BY KEVIN ROBINSON AFN Guest Writer

Ihave practiced fiscal conservatism as an investor in my personal life, as a public servant overseeing the Phoenix Police Department half billion-dollar budget, and as a president of the board of directors of a non-profit organization leading a five-million-dollar capital campaign.

So, when it comes to money, my own, taxpayers, or donors, diligent oversight is a priority of mine and a responsibility that should not be forsaken. That having been said, I believe that the City of Phoenix is most assuredly going in the right direction fiscally.

Don’t take it from me: top economic analysts have praised the city’s progress. Moody’s, the international credit rating organization, has removed any negative outlook on the City’s credit rating and this is inclusive of the Public Safety Retirement System Pension debt.

Also, based on economic forecasting and the City’s budgetary reserves, Phoenix is in an exceptional position fiscally.

Phoenix has also come a long way since the Great Recession forced the city to downsize its workforce and make deep cuts to essential services such as public safety. When you compare the City to others comparable in size, none comes close to Phoenix’s stewardship when it comes to its bud-

getary responsibilities.

Phoenix has made fiscal decisions that are based on sound, principled, and ethical standards.

Such practices are the guidelines by which credit rating organizations make their credit rating decisions, Phoenix is definitely on solid footing.

What has been helpful, and this is just one example, is how the City of Phoenix navigated through the COVID-19 crisis without laying off a single employee. That particular feat is not shared by many municipal governments.

Phoenix was able to keep its employees gainfully employed and the highquality services they provided continued without interruption.

Another sign that the City is moving in the right fiscal direction is the fact that the City is having its first Bond Program in sixteen years. A program that is enjoying overwhelming community support.

Lastly, the City is currently conducting a Class and Compensation Study to ensure its employees are the best paid in the region. For these reasons I believe the City of Phoenix is moving in the right direction from a fiscal standpoint.

Now, I’m not suggesting that additional steps to better solidify Phoenix’s financial future are not needed, to the contrary. We must remain vigilant by making sound financial decisions and

Stone: Treading water fiscally isn’t good enough for this city

BY SAM STONE AFN Guest Writer

Phoenix isn’t going in the wrong direction financially. We’re not going in the right direction, either. We’re treading water – which is, admittedly, an improvement over the financial management of the recent past – but treading water also means we’re never more than a couple inches from drowning.

It didn’t need to be this way, and we appear to have an opportunity in front of us to put our city ashore on firm financial footing.

The question is whether the council will choose to take the route of greater responsibility going forward, or not. In the last few years – even through the pandemic and shutdowns – Phoenix has taken in record and growing tax revenues every single year.

On top of that, we received over $1.5 billion in one-time federal monies via two rounds of Covid funding. Cities and states that had longer, more severe shutdowns than we did might have needed that money to replace lost tax revenue, but for Phoenix it was an unencumbered windfall. And a missed opportunity.

ing spending, counting on future tax growth to make up the difference.

That’s not a totally unreasonable gamble – Taiwan Semiconductor and the adjacent growth of suppliers to their plant have basically baked-in a high level of growth for Phoenix over the next few years – but it is still a gamble, and Phoenix should never gamble with our finances.

If the last three years have taught us something, it should be “don’t take anything for granted”. There will be future economic downturns. Phoenix’s current explosive growth will wane.

The real shame of this type of shortsighted management is that we could have leveraged a lot of that money into debt reduction that would have freed up far more money over time (the power of compound interest works in both directions) if we had used a significant portion of it for that purpose. We didn’t.

But that doesn’t mean the opportunity is gone for good. As mentioned above, Phoenix’s growth over the next few years is more or less inevitable as suppliers and related industries relocate around Taiwan Semi and expansions of the Valley’s other semi-conductor manufacturing facilities.

That’s why I’ve proposed developing a standing policy wherein each year we have a budget surplus we divide it in three. One-third for ongoing expenditures and budget increases. One-third for one-time expenses. One-third for

see ROBINSON page 36 see

One-time monies should have been used only for debt reduction, capital improvements, and other one-time expenditures. Instead, the current Council majority programmed a significant portion of those funds into increased ongo -

Former candidate endorses Sam Stone for City Council

In a few short weeks District 6 will have their runoff election to seat a new Council Member. You may have read about the excessive amounts of donation money that is pouring into this race and the political endorsements attempting to sway you to vote a particular way.

It is important to remember that the Phoenix City Council is the People’s Council. It is not the Mayor’s City Council or one political party’s city

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

council. ALL voices must be heard, including far-left, far-right, centrists, independents, and those with no political affiliation.

Sam Stone and I are opposite in our political beliefs which is one reason why I am supporting him. Sam will provide the checks and balances that we need on the Phoenix City Council. He will bring another perspective to solving Phoenix’s pressing problems that have increased over the years.

Sam has extensive work experience within our community as the chief of

staff for Councilman Sal DiCiccio. Instead of rejecting the council members’ differences, the leadership should embrace it and work together to find solutions that improve the lives for all Phoenicians.

Joan Greene

(Former candidate for District 6)

Reader tells Stone: Accept Trump’s defeat

Mr Stone,

In your editorial you informed us that the Government is not doing a

great job serving the people. Trump in your mind is the solution. Nothing is further than that falsehood

Trump was given four years to “make the government work for us.”. Instead he put our system of government in great peril by trying to overthrow a duly elected President. If you cannot accept the simple fact that Trump lost the 2020 election, you will continue to dwell in falsehoods. You are not the solution, but a great peril to our democracy.

-Stanley D’Souza

Concussion prevention for older adults is important

BY JAMIE NESBIT AFN Guest Writer

Talk of concussions will take center during the Super Bowl. The rhetoric will stay within the context of sports. Parents will contemplate the risk for their youth athletes and professional athletic associations will showcase ways they are preventing and addressing concussions when they happen.

However, what is often overlooked is that concussions can happen where most of us will watch the big game: in the living room.

Before being Assistant Professor, Physical Therapy, PT, DPT at Creighton University’s Health Sciences campus in Phoenix, I worked at an outpatient neurologic rehabilitation clinic with a team of health professionals who diagnosed

need to continue efforts to seek out best practices when it comes to fiscal management to keep our economy growing and our neighborhoods safe.

Close scrutiny of how the City spends taxpayer dollars should always be a priority of elected officials, in this case, City Councilpersons.

To that end, I pledge to provide a conservative approach to the fiscal dealings of the City of Phoenix when I serve as your councilman in District 6. 

and treated people with concussions.

When I first started, it was surprising to see the number of geriatric patients that had suffered a concussion because of a fall. Sadly, often the scare and the physical trauma from having fallen overshadowed the concussion.

According to the National Library of Medicine, falls account for 51 percent of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in older adults. And often the recovery and rehabilitation takes months, even years. And just like ‘long COVID’, some concussion patients will experience ‘long concussion’: prolonged symptoms where a person looks perfectly normal but they are suffering through daily headaches, dizziness, decreased mental capacity, “brain fog” and even apathy.

As a health professional with special interest in geriatric care, when it comes to concussions, I encourage all of us to be mindful of our older loved ones. Some

debt reduction.

Doing so will ensure that future budget growth is highly sustainable, and we don’t face a repeat of 2009 when the city had to cut services, reduce pay, and implement a multi-year hiring freeze to overcome the effects of the burst realestate bubble and associated economic downturn. Most people don’t realize the enormous impact that hiring freeze had, and continues to have, on our police staffing levels.

tips to consider for helping prevent a fall which is the most common cause of a concussion among this group follow:

• Talk to your doctor to evaluate your risk for falling, and discuss things to incorporate in routine to reduce the risk of a fall.

• Do strength and balance exercises to make your legs stronger and improve your balance.

• Have your eyes checked at least once a year, and be sure to update your eyeglasses if needed.

• Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medicines to see if any might make you dizzy or sleepy. This should include prescription medicines, over-the counter medicines, herbal supplements, and vitamins.

• Make your home safer by implementing non-slip mats, handrails in the bathroom, and limiting the

The good news is that our economy is far more diversified than it was at that time, less vulnerable to market shocks, and future downturns will likely have more limited impact on city revenues.

But balanced against that is a massive year-over-year increase in the amount of money Phoenix is required to pay to address our unfunded pension liabilities that will continue to strain Phoenix budgets for more than two decades to come.

Paying down the debt on that municipal “credit card” balance would drastically reduce our total outlays and free up

use of a step ladder for hard to reach items.

No matter how a person suffers a concussion, what is clear is that it warrants extra vigilance and care. Teaching the next generation of healthcare professionals about this condition is one way we at Creighton University hope to improve outcomes.

And thanks to the teamwork across the globe among researchers, healthcare providers and educators when it comes to concussion education, awareness and prevention, as a society we are enthusiastically on the 50-yard line and energized for the continued work ahead.

Dr. Jamie Nesbit is an Assistant Professor at Creighton University’s Health Sciences Campus in Phoenix within the Department of Physical Therapy. Dr. Nesbit has worked at HonorHealth in Scottsdale, for 10 years, primarily in the outpatient neurologic setting. 

a huge amount of money over time to address needed service improvements including low-income supportive housing, drug and mental health treatment for people living on the streets, improved roads, parks and other amenities – things we desperately need to be able to invest in to address the challenges of our current growth.

I’m asking for your support and your vote to help get Phoenix finally and permanently ashore from what has been a desperate, multi-decade long effort to stay above water. 

Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills News on Facebook

DV seniors aim to cap off wrestling season on good note

BY ZACH ALVIRA AFN Sports Editor

One by one Desert Vista seniors walked with their family members across the mat in the school’s auxiliary gym.

Their names were called as they stood under a balloon display fit with the school’s navy blue, gold and white color scheme. It was a way to honor each member of the wrestling program for their time on the mat representing the Thunder.

For some, wrestling at Desert Vista is a family tradition of sorts. Others never thought they would enjoy the sport or make it as far as they had in four years.

Then there’s the select few that coach David Gonzalez referred to as architects. The ones who helped build the program, most notably on the girls’ side.

“It makes me feel I’ve done something to leave a legacy on the program,” senior wrestler Wiseon Hwang said. “I guess it

really warms my heart to know I’ve been an architect for the program.”

Hwang was one of the first girls at the

school to begin wrestling. She had wanted to wrestle since eighth grade but was always held back by her parents as they

feared for her safety.

She understood their point. If she didn’t take it seriously, just like in any sport with contact, she could end up with injuries. But when she became a freshman at Desert Vista, she saw her friends wrestle. So, she decided to join.

She can still recall the moment she asked her parents to pick her up from practice.

“She was like, ‘Are you serious?’ So, it wasn’t really a conversation. My parents know I’ve always been the type of person to just do stuff,” Hwang said.

“It changed my life. I wouldn’t be who I am today if I hadn’t joined freshman year. I wouldn’t have gotten the opportunities I got or met the people I know without it. It’s very special.”

Hwang was one of the trailblazers for the sport and program at Desert Vista, but knew she had to recruit others to join to make that side of the program survive.

Arsenal Soccer taking next step toward pro development

BY ZACH ALVIRA AFN Sports Editor

Since 1992, Arizona Arsenal Soccer Club has been one of the go-to programs for youth soccer players to compete at a high level in and outside Arizona.

The club expanded to join the United Premier Soccer League and Women’s Premier Soccer League to cater to players ranging in ages 18 to 30 years old. The semi-professional environment has been a hit ever since for the premier flagship soccer club out of Bell Bank Park in Mesa. But now, Arsenal is looking to further extend its reach in the soccer space.

The club announced on January 19 it would join the United Soccer League, League Two, a division of the USL Championship that houses professional teams such as Phoenix Rising FC. It’s a monumental step for a club that

Arizona Arsenal Soccer Club, which services most of the East Valley, is further expanding its reach into the semi-professional realm of soccer by joining USL League Two, a division of the United Soccer League which is home to the Phoenix Rising. (Courtesy Arizona Arsenal Soccer Club)

piring players.

“This is huge. We thought we were going to stick with the UPSL and WPSL, that was the move we made last year but we’re always looking to expand,” said Ty Iannone, Arsenal’s pre pro general manager and an assistant coach at Desert Vista.

“We’re always looking to create a better soccer environment in Arizona and to benefit our soccer membership at Arizona Arsenal Soccer Club. It felt like the move we had to make when the opportunity came forward to us.”

USL League Two is two steps down from the championship league, which houses professional clubs awaiting an opportunity to join Major League Soccer.

Founded in 1995, USL League Two is a semi-professional developmental league with 16 division across four

aims to be seen as a direct path to a professional career in the sport for as-

Desert Vista wrestling senior Carter Holt walks out with his parents during introductions on senior night, Tuesday, January 24, 2023, in Ahwatukee, Arizona. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

SENIORS from page 38

It took time, but the girls’ program has grown. Hwang has also had a chance to become a mentor and leader, most notably for Everest Leydecker, a freshman that won two national titles before enrolling at Desert Vista.

Overall, her contributions and those from others, especially through the COVID year, didn’t go unnoticed.

“They’ve always been special,” Gonzalez said. “Most of these seniors were in the lineup when COVID hit. From what they put together during that tough time to now, that’s why they’ve had the success they’ve had.”

Antonio Delgado was joined by his three members of his family on the mat for the senior night ceremony. One of those was his older brother, Armando, whose footsteps he will follow in the fall when he goes on to continue playing football at the next level.

Like Armando, he has wrestled all four years at Desert Vista. It became a family tradition of sorts for the Delgados, transitioning from the gridiron to the mat.

This year, he wanted to showcase his skills in both sports but also his love

ARSENAL from page 38 conferences. Teams are spread out throughout the country, with several in the western part of the United States. FC Tucson was an expansion team in USL League Two last season.

Arsenal’s League Two team will cater to collegiate athletes mostly but will be open to elite players in the 16- to 17-year-old age group as well as up to 30 years old. The League Two team will now become the flagship for the club. It will still have teams in the UPSL and WPSL also, as those will cater to those who are on the cusp of making the jump to the League Two team.

Arsenal still caters to the younger age groups as well.

“To see how much the club has grown from my time playing here to what it is now, it’s super exciting to be a part of it,” Iannone said. “I’m grateful for it and excited to see where it can grow in the next five to 10 years as we continue to grow.”

and emotion to the Thunder. He was the leader on the Desert Vista defense and has become the same for the wrestling program.

But some of his favorite memories have come away from the mat. Most notably in trips out of state to compete in national competitions.

“We’ve worked our butts off in this

While an exciting new venture for the club and its players, it doesn’t come without added expenses.

Iannone said the cost for the team to travel across the southwest region of the United States will be steep. They’ve looked into various sponsorships from local businesses across the Valley.

While it will be difficult, he is confident the club will be able to achieve their financial goals and put together a competitive team to compete in the USL League Two.

“It’s a big jump up, I’ll be honest,” Iannone said. “It’s expensive but we thought to create a better landscape of soccer in Arizona and to give a better opportunity to Arsenal alumni, collegiate athletes and aspiring professional athletes, we thought, ‘Let’s do this thing.’

“We want to make it as competitive and impactful for the state as we can.”

Arsenal’s League Two team will be coached by Adam Burke, whose soccer coaching experience includes time with

The Thunder made a name for themselves in Wisconsin at the Cheesehead Invitational, one of the largest and most notable high school wrestling tournaments in the country.

“Surprising people is always great,” senior wrestler Carter Holt said. “They had no idea who we are. Arizona wrestling is always looked down upon around the rest of the country. We showed them who we are and made a name for ourselves.”

While Desert Vista has enjoyed a successful regular season, the wrestlers know there is plenty of work to be done.

They rank among the top teams in the state but know knocking off powerhouse programs such as Liberty and Sunnyside out of Tucson will be a challenge. That’s why even with senior night now having come and gone, Holt isn’t settling for what they’ve already accomplished.

state, different states and we’ve showed what DV is all about nationally,” Delgado said. “Overnight tournaments are super fun. The farther away it is the more fun it is. It was really fun and we really bond well at DV.”

Delgado has been one of the key contributors for a Desert Vista program that has yet to lose a duel this season.

the Rising and most recently St. Louis youth teams.

Arsenal will soon hold tryouts for the League Two team. The team will play 14 matches in the regular season, seven of which will be held at Bell Bank Park’s stadium. The season will run from May to mid-July.

“I’m a kid in a candy shop,” Iannone said. “This is something Technical Direc-

He admitted that he never saw himself making as much of an impact as he has on the program. But he’s eager to cap off his career in exciting fashion.

He hopes his teammates can do the same and hoist the trophy at the end.

“The trophy is all we’re chasing right now,” Holt said. “We want the team trophy. Every day in the room we preach the goals we want.” 

tor Dave Belfort and I have had in the works for a long time. We finally got it approved about a month ago and to get this announced and see the reactions on social media, it was super exciting.

“The hard work isn’t done yet. But as soon as that first whistle is blown on that first game, I know it’ll be super exciting for everybody that was involved putting this together.” 

Desert Vista wrestling senior Antonio Delgado walks out with his family during introductions on senior night, Tuesday, January 24, 2023, in Ahwatukee, Arizona. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

Ahwatukee promoter offers 12th annual hot air balloon fest

Ahwatukee promoter Tim Matykiewicz will be flying high this weekend and he’s hoping his neighbors across the community will hit the South Mountain Parkway and head to Goodyear to join him for the Arizona Balloon Classic.

“We’re back at it again in the Ahwatukee event production office,” Matykiewicz said, with his signature event that comes this time when all sorts of big events are coming to the Valley over the next two weeks as Super Bowl Week and the WM Phoenix Open rev up.

“Hot air balloons, golf and football –what a wild place to be for two straight weeks,” he said as he prepares for his balloon fest, which starts at 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, and runs though noon Sunday

Feb. 5 at Goodyear Ballpark, 1933 S. Ball-

Information on directions is at abcfest.com.

With an eye toward benefitting Valley

of the Sun United Way, he’s lined up a series of events centered around the colorful balloons that will be offered 4-9 p.m. Friday, 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday and 7 a.m.noon Sunday. Morning ascensions for the balloons occur 7:30-8:30 a.m. Saturday and Sunday while the evening glows with balloons lighted up to dazzle spectators slated for 7-8:30 p.m. those days.

Of course, he warned, “Balloon liftoffs and glows times are always dependent on weather conditions.”

Over 20,000 spectators are expected to hit the ballpark to enjoy up to 25 hot air balloons, some of them he said will have “special shapes.”

On Saturday and Sunday mornings, Matykiewicz said, they can expect the sky to be “filled with colorful hot air bal-

Rare finds among Historical Museum’s book sale

AFN NEWS STAFF

The Mesa Historical Museum next weekend is holding a fundraiser that may make e-book readers think about going hybrid.

The museum, 2345 N. Horne, Mesa, is holding its third annual book sale 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, and 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Feb.5., on its grounds.

“We have 40,000 books for sale,” said museum Executive Director Susan Ricci. “It’s our third annual sale and the biggest book fair event to date.”

The books have been donated throughout the year by people who apparently figured that even in a digital age, many readers prefer the feel of something more than a tablet in their hands when they read.

“We have volunteers working daily to sort all of the donated books for this huge upcoming sale event,” Ricci said. “We have a book drop outside them

museum and we had weekly surprises. We also have some very regular donors who have been supplying us with books.”

While most books are priced at $1 and $2, there also are rare books dating back to the mid 1800s, Ricci said.

Most books are priced at $1 and $2, though some are rare tomes dating back to the mid 1800s, Ricci said. So those might carry a higher price tag.

On Sunday, most of the books are half-price except the rare and unusual ones.

Among the latter is a book titled “The Great Encouragement,” which had a find within the find.

“This fragile book is from 1913 and contains short essays on philosophy and encouragement,” Ricci said. “Inside the pages we discovered a handwritten note in old style handwriting from an employee who gifted this book to his employer thanking him for providing him with his job. It is a

real treasure.”

Ricci said donations like this surprised her.

“I was very surprised by the old books,” she said. “I love old books so much. The other day I sorted one last box of old books and discovered one from 1778 entitled “The Works of Johnathan Swift” published in Edinburgh.

“The 1778 book and many of the very old bibles were the most surprising,” she added. “A lot of them have the owner’s name inside and it’s so interesting to know someone wrote in that book over 100 years ago.

The museum is renovating its gift shop and plans to have a section of vintage books.

“We also keep books that pertain to Arizona and the Southwest. Those have been popular in our gift shop.”

Ricci also had. a warning for early birds who show up Saturday,

GETOUT STAFF

park Way.

Aout two dozen hot air balloons thrill spectators at the Arizona Balloon Classic during morning takeoffs and during glow events at night. (File photo)

This fragile book is from 1913 and contains short essays on philosophy and encouragement, according to Mesa Historical Museum Executive Director Susan Ricci. It is among more than 40,000 old books on sale at the museum next weekend. (Special to the Tribune).

Base jumpers to parachute with a purpose

BY JOSH ORTEGA GetOut Staff Writer

BASE jumping nonprofit returns to Camelback Mountain for traumatic brain injury solutions fundraiser, and benefit concert to bring attention to veteran suicide.

Members of the veteran-run nonprofit 22 Jumps will take to the skies on February 4 to fundraise research and treatment options for veterans who suffer from traumatic brain injury and other mental health issues contributing to the current epidemic of veteran suicide.

“We combine BASE jumping, fundraising, event planning, and visual storytelling to support the development of durable solutions for traumatic brain injuries,” 22 Jumps founder Tristan Wimmer said.

BASE jumping is the recreational sport of jumping from fixed objects and using a parachute to descend safely to the ground, and the acronym “BASE” stands for the four categories of fixed objects from which one can jump: buildings, antenna, spans such as bridges, and earth – most of the time meaning cliffs.

This year, two local businesses are partnering with 22 Jumps to expand fund-

raising efforts.

On Thursday, Feb. 2, Dixxon Flannel Co. will host a benefit concert featuring local band Los Gringos on at its Tempe showroom presented by Cider Corps.

The next day, Cider Corps will hold a sit-down dinner in its Mesa Taproom with three speakers from Cohen Veteran Bioscience and other leaders in traumatic brain injury research to discuss advancements in TBI.

“Currently, there is no way for a medical provider to tell someone that they have a TBI that is attributed to a previous mechanism of injury,” Wimmer said. “22 Jumps, in partnership with CVB and our other research partners, hope to change that.”

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among post-9/11 veterans.

Wimmer and Chris Carnahan will each complete 22 BASE jumps off Camelback Mountain on Saturday, Feb. 4. Each jump is symbolic of the 22 active duty service members and veterans in the U.S. who succumb to suicide each day.

“I think that physically and mentally that many jumps, with the combined hiking aspect, will push me out of any comfort zone that I am typically used to

with parachuting,” Carnahan said.

The jumps will be held as part of the fourth annual 22 Jumps event at Camelback Mountain in Phoenix, beginning at 6 a.m. Those who wish to support are asked to meet at the Echo Canyon Trailhead.

Wimmer, a Marine Corps Infantryman and Scout Sniper veteran, founded the nonprofit in 2020 in memory of his brother Kiernan Wimmer, a recon and Marine Forces Special Operations Command Marine who served a tour of duty in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Kiernan suffered a massive TBI in Al Anbar, Iraq, in 2006 and his quality of life deteriorated over the next nine years until he took his own life in 2015.

22 Jumps utilizes BASE jumping as a fundraising platform to support the development of short-term and long-term TBI solutions and started the Camelback event as a tribute to Kiernan Wimmer, but Tristan quickly expanded its scope after learning about the countless families affected by veteran suicide.

This will be the group’s seventh event nationwide and each event has a fundraising goal of $22,000.

To date the organization has raised more than $180,000.

Proceeds support the Kiernan Wimmer TBI Innovation Initiative at Cohen Veteran Bioscience , a nonprofit biomedical research organization dedicated to fast-tracking precision diagnostics and tailored therapeutics for millions of people who suffer the devastating effects of trauma-related and other brain disorders and brain trauma, a major risk factor for suicide. 

If you go

Los Gringos Benefit Concert

When: Thursday, Feb. 2, 6-10 p.m.

Where: Dixxon Flannel Showroom, 7200 S. Priest Drive, Tempe.

Cost: $22

Fundraising Dinner

When: Friday, Feb. 3, 6-10 p.m.

Where: Cider Corps Mesa, 31 S. Robson, Mesa

Cost: $200

Tickets for the concert and dinner:: bit.ly/3ZK9qmf.

Information/donations: 22Jumps.org.

Hale Theatre presents ‘The Andrews Brothers’

Just about everyone of a certain age knows about the Andrews Sisters, an internationally famous trio of “girl singers” who rocketed to fame in the 1940s.

The Hale Theatre in Gilbert is presenting a rollicking musical that takes a different spin on this popular trio.

LaVerne, Patty, and Maxene sang their way into the hearts of Americans with such tunes as “Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree,” “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “Straighten Up and Fly Right,” “Slow Boat to China,” and “I’ll Be with You in Apple Blossom Time.”

Over their careers, they charted more than 100 Billboard hits, 46 of them in the Top Ten – more than Elvis and The Beatles – and sold 100-million records.

But what about the Andrews Brothers?

People may not know them until they

see three guys slip into the Andrews Sisters’ skirts and tap shoes to perform a USO show for World War II troops after the Sisters’ appearance became unavoidably canceled.

The guys have plenty of experience, sort of, as USO stagehands. They step up to save the day as they sing and dance to the amusement of the soldiers.

The Hale Theatre in Gilbert presents a hilarious take-off on a famed singing trio with “The Andrews Brothers.” (Nick Woodward-Shaw/ Special to GetOut)

One of them even dances his way into the heart of a pretty admirer, backup singer Peggy Jones. Mistaken identities and madcap adventures abound in what the producer called a “wonderful valentine to the heroes of the Greatest Generation. The Gold Cast will star Joey Morrison as Max, Trevon Powell as Lawrence, Reece

Harris as Patrick and Michala Montano as Peggy.

The Green Cast cast will star Raymond Barcelo as Max, Adam Guinn as Lawrence, Kyle Webb as Patrick and Holly Payne as Peggy. Both casts consist of popular Hale actors.

One hilarious skit follows another in the show studded with more than two dozen Andrews Sisters hits. Directed by Cambrian James, an oft-honored director and choreographer, with music directed by Lincoln Wright, it is a fun evening for families running through March 7.

Tickets are $45 for adults and $30 for youth ages 5-17. Obtain tickets by calling Hale’s box office at 480-497-1181 or online at HaleTheatreArizona.com.

Hale is located at 50 W. Page Ave. in Gilbert’s Heritage District, across the street from the Gilbert Water Tower Park 

GETOUT STAFF

King Crossword

ACROSS

1 Appear

5 Commotion

8 Online auction site

12 Actress Fisher

13 Part of DJIA

14 Dell

15 Youthful countenance

17 Laundry appliance

18 Soft leather

19 Columns of light

21 Pro votes

24 Numerical prefix

25 July’s stone

28 It ain’t worth a nickel

30 Prattle

33 “Life -- cabaret ...”

34 Stuns, as a perp

35 “Bali --”

36 Chum

37 Sharif of “Funny Girl”

38 Wild guess

39 Run after K

41 For fear that

43 “No cheating!”

46 Eucalyptus eater

50 Thames town

51 Temporary mental fatigue

54 Dazzle

55 Here, in Dijon

56 Slangy suffix

57 Skater Lipinski

58 Muppet eagle

59 Dance partner?

DOWN

1 Bloodline sharers

2 Jacob’s twin

3 North Sea feeder

4 “Help!”

5 Oklahoma city

6 Elmer, to Bugs

7 Has bills

8 Perrier rival

9 Brawl that’s broken up by a bouncer

10 Oodles

11 Desires

16 Tina of “30 Rock”

20 Colorations

22 Wax-coated cheese

23 Twine fiber

25 Wardrobe malfunction

26 “Suits” network

27 Jim Bouton book

29 Simple

31 Small battery

32 Clothing protector

34 Writer Morrison

38 Gems

40 Food from heaven

42 Enjoy Aspen

43 Optimum

44 Jazzy James

45 Baseball stats

47 Roundish ‘do

48 Lake bird

49 Awestruck

52 Nipper’s co.

53 Goal

Move over beignets. Move over fritters. Move over donut holes.

Welcome to the prettiest, tastiest bite-sized deep fried dessert treat that will wow anyone who sets their eyes on them.

This recipe was such a surprise! As a matter of fact, I ran across it a while back on a YouTube video about old heritage recipes. The narration was all in Turkish, and so it took me hours to try to translate the ingredients and directions.

Sudoku

But I knew the minute I saw it I had to make them. I’m so happy I did, and even happier to share this Turkish delight with you. Have fun with this recipe and enjoy the sweet taste of these billowy, crispy, light and airy Bloomin’ Dessert Flowers!

Ingredients:

4 cups all purpose flour

1 tsp vanilla powder

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

Bloomin’ Dessert Flowers a Turkish after-meal delight

½ cup butter, softened to room temperature, but not melted

Directions:

1. In a bowl, mix together the flour, vanilla powder, salt and butter. Mix to form a sand-like consistency.

2. Add egg, vinegar and 8 tablespoons of the blossom water. Form into a ball, adding the remainder of the blossom water as needed. Place dough onto a floured surface and knead to form a soft dough. Cut into two pieces. Cover with plastic wrap and Let rise in a covered bowl in the frig for 1-2 hours.

3. When chilled, roll out each ball into a rectangle. Keep laminating and rolling until you get a thin, thin sheet, making sure your work surface is floured.

4. Using a 2 inch square scalloped cookie cutter, cut out square shapes. On each square, Make a half inch cut in the middle of each side of the square, leaving the center of the square uncut.

Stack three squares on top of each other, at different angles. Press your finger in the center of the

1 egg

1 TBSP white vinegar

10 TBSP orange blossom water

Vegetable oil for frying

1 cup pistachio, chopped very fine

1 cup honey, heated in microwave for 10 seconds

three stacked squares so they stick together in the center. Repeat until all squares are used up.

5. In a Dutch oven, heat oil to 365 degrees. (To test the oil for frying, drop a small piece of dough into the hot oil. If it vigorously bubbles up, it is ready for frying.)

6. Carefully place one 3-square flour on the end of a wooden spatula handle. Press it gently in the center of the squares. Carefully drop the flower into the oil using the wooden spoon handle to hold it in the oil for a few seconds.

7. When the flowers turn a golden brown, remove with a spider or slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel lined sheet pan.

8. Drizzle the flower with a small amount of with heated honey and sprinkle the center with a tiny amount of pistachios. Makes about 15 flowers. 

loons….for a spectacular sight of mass and color.” Spectators can walk on the field and watch their inflation and takeoff.

At night, the tethered balloons light up and glow with music while a laser show dance to music is offered on the Arizona Lottery stage.

Hot air balloon rides are available and he also is offering a family fun zone, BMX stunt shows, the Desert Winds Kite Festival, tethered balloon rides, a Tim Murphy photo exhibition as well as other entertainment acts and dozens of retail booths.

New this year is an “after glow party” Friday night with house music, a laser light show and tethered rides. The event is open to people 21 and older.

“Our sixth annual Street Foodfest is set with festival food favorites,” he added, noting beer stations also will be on the premises.

Tickets for one day are $30. An allweekend pass is available for $95 in advance only. All tickets are available at abcfest.com. Active military and veterans

as well as children under 12 are free and packages are available for groups of 10 or more

No pets are allowed.

The City of Mesa is holding a marathon on Saturday and to avoid the race route completely, travelers are advised to skirt the perimeter by using the 202 Red Mountain Freeway (north and east borders); the 101 Price Freeway (west border); and US 60 Superstition Freeway (south border). All streets will re-open by 1:30 p.m.

Information: mesahistoricalmuseum.com 

Matykiewicz’s company, Arizona Events Group, has raised thousands of dollars for charities, which get part of the proceeds from the balloon festival. 

Ahwatukee promoter Tim Matykiewicz shares proceeds from the balloon event with the Valley of the Sun United Way. (File photo)

If you think oxygen therapy means slowing down, it’s time for a welcome breath of fresh air.

Introducing the Inogen One family of portable oxygen systems. With no need for bulky tanks, each concentrator is designed to keep you active via Inogen’s Intelligent Delivery Technology.® Hours of quiet and consistent oxygen flow on a long-lasting battery charge enabling freedom of movement, whether at home or on the road. Every Inogen One meets FAA requirements for travel ensuring the freedom to be you.

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