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Good Samaritan finds, returns 6-year-old girl’s stolen library. p13
‘Urban ag’ theme proposal unveiled
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PHOTO ESSAY Kyrene students meet their new teacher. p26
NEW SERIES
5-DIAMOND NEIGHBOR The state’s top chef works next door to Ahwatukee. p47
(Special to AFN)
AFN begins looking at Ahwatukee’s oldest businesses. p41
The heart of the development proposal is the farmers market and Montessori Desert Garden Montessori school on 10 acres of the 101-acre site.
Former golf course would be ‘Ahwatukee Farms’ development AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS EXCLUSIVE By Lee Shappell AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS MANAGING EDITOR
STATE CHAMPS Ahwatukee Little Leaguers run the tournament table. p53 Neighborhood p3 Around AF p4 Community p15 Opinion p22
Faith p30 GetOut p32 Sports/Rec p37 Classified p41
The True Life Companies, which last summer bought the closed Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club, today unveiled plans for transforming its brownedout fairways and empty lakes into “Ahwatukee Farms.” The project calls for a maximum average of three single-family homes per acre on the 101acre site, which would also include community gardens, a farmers’ market and café, two lakes to mitigate drainage and flooding, multi-use trails, open green spaces and pocket parks, and a private Montessori school. “We hope to provide an amenity to the greater community of Ahwatukee,” said David N. Sabow, managing director for True Life’s Arizona operations. “Community-supported agriculture is a popular, emerging trend throughout the
country. It really speaks to the sense of community, provides for healthy living, healthy lifestyle, and promotes central gathering places. “It just has a really good feel and I think it’s perfect for Ahwatukee.” The property has been a source of contention since former owner Wilson Gee closed the 35-yearold, executive-length golf course in May 2013, saying it was losing money and no longer was viable for golf. The site quickly became an eyesore as watering of the grounds ceased, weeds sprouted, trees died and the lakes were drained, leaving at times a stench while Gee sought a buyer. “We have spent the better part of the past 14 months conceiving a plan that is special,” Sabow said. “Our goal was to breathe some fresh air into Ahwatukee. In contemplating how we achieve that, >> See AHWATUKEE FARMS on page 6
More Inside • From freeways to gardens, a history. p. 6 • Arson suspected, unproven in clubhouse fire. p. 12 • Lakes resident/True Life executive speaks out. p. 39 • The vision in renderings. p.6-8
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Leighton Blankenburg of Ahwatukee is heading to a U.S. Air Force base in Mississippi to begin training as a pilot now that he’s a graduate of the Air Force Academy.
(Special to AFN)
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Ahwatukee man graduates from U.S. Air Force Academy AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF
Leighton Blankenburg of Ahwatukee is ready to take to the skies for Uncle Sam now that he has graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy. Blankenburg, 23, was one of 812 academy graduates and is heading to Columbus Air Force Base in Mississippi for a two-year stint as a pilot-trainee. “I am hoping for a long career in the Air Force and to fly as long as I can,” the 2011 Mountain Pointe High School alumnus said. He is hoping to ultimately get assigned to an AC-130 gunship, called the Air Force’s most lethal aircraft, or a C-17 cargo plane. But he’s not picky. “Any air frame would be fantastic,” he said, Blankenburg enrolled in the academy because he wanted “to be a part of something bigger than myself and to serve my nation in the best possible capacity I could.” He said the academy became “a family that was driven towards one mission of protecting our country.” Not that academy life was easy, he added. “You never knew how busy you were until you were at home relaxing during the holidays, and constantly thinking, ‘Why am I not busy? I should be doing something.’ Your friends, mentors, and instructors motivate you every single day to accomplish more in one day than some do in one week.” While he is looking forward to his first post-graduate assignment, Blankenburg said he will miss his fellow students. “Having several of your best friends just a few steps down the hallway is an environment that only the Academy can foster,” he said. “Now, many of them are scattered across the country and will be stationed across the globe. It is the idea of being a part of a team that draws you to the Academy - and it is the people that motivate you to stay at one of the greatest institutions in the country.” But he won’t be alone. He’ll be going to Mississippi with his bride, Shanna Majercak of Chandler, whom he married on June 11, a few >> See BLANKENBURG on page 5
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
BLANKENBURG
Correction
>> From page 3
weeks after graduating from the academy. His wife, whom he has been dating since about a year after they graduated from high school, just earned her bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University and hopes to teach while he’s earning his wings. “It will be a nice change of pace, since it has been long distance the past four years,” he said.
Local college students honored
Other academic honorees from Ahwatukee News about Ahwatukee residents who graduated from colleges and universities or distinguished themselves academically continues to roll in. Washington University in St. Louis reported that Katelyn Miyasaki and Jonathan Wu, both students in its School of Engineering and Applied Science, were among 68 people to make the spring dean’s list with a grade point average of at least 3.6 on a 4.0 scale. Three Ahwatukee students at Benedictine University made that school’s dean’s list. They included Benjamin J. Potter, Caitlin E. Gallagher, and Ryan T. Witte. Meanwhile, Kelly Wilton received a master’s degree in fine arts from the College of Imaging Arts and Sciences at Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, New York.
In a photo published July 27 in the Ahwatukee Foothills News, the woman pictured with Eileen Yellin was incorrectly identified. The woman in the photo was not involved in the incident.
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Page 5
(Special to AFN)
This overview of the Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club shows how the entire 101-acre Ahwatukee Farms site would replace the abandoned golf course.
AHWATUKEE FARMS >> From page 1
we considered many different concepts.” Among them, Sabow said, was maintaining a golf course. “We looked at trying to revitalize golf on this property,” Sabow said. “It didn’t make sense, and it still doesn’t make sense. This property will not be a golf course again.” He explained that golf activity and demand for courses is declining nationwide as well as in Arizona. Instead, Sabow says, True Life wants to “give Ahwatukee something special.” To build Ahwatukee Farms on each side
of South 44th Street between Knox and Warner roads, True Life must first gain signatures from 50 percent plus one of the roughly 5,200 property owners governed by Ahwatukee Board of Management to rewrite the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs). The current CC&Rs state that the property may be used only for a golf course. That fact was upheld in July by a Maricopa County Superior Court in an initial preliminary ruling. “That ruling only says that under the current CC&Rs, it must be a golf course. The ruling was in response to our request for summary judgment,” said Sabow. “It’s just the beginning,” he said, adding that a
court battle could last 2 to 4 years. “If we get permission to amend the CC&Rs with the support of the community, it would allow us to move on with this plan,” he said. “We feel that the merits of our plan will win out. It’s not a run-of-themill subdivision. I think that the sense of community that comes with this project will prevail.” Two years ago, potential land owner Pulte Homes failed to gain public support for its proposal that included open space, but with fewer amenities than the Ahwatukee Farms plan. Unable to secure consent to change restrictions, Pulte pulled its purchase offer and abandoned its plan. “We’re fully aware that a typical
production subdivision was never going to fly,” Sabow said. “We were up to speed on Pulte’s experience, and we knew from the start that we needed to deliver something very special to Ahwatukee.” Sabow says it has done that with Ahwatukee Farms, which would include a water tower and pond in a roundabout on 44th Street at the center of the development and a nearby windmill to carry out the farm theme.
Community-supported agriculture The urban agricultural theme would be more than skin deep. Centerpiece of the plan, Sabow says, is ambience created by >> See AHWATUKEE FARMS on page 7
Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club timeline 2006
Los Angeles developer Wilson Gee purchases executive-length Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club, 13431 S. 44th St., built by Presley Development Co. and designed by Gary Panks.
2009 Page 6
2013
May
After years of contentious discussions, Gee closes 35-yearold golf course. By summer’s end, fairways become bare patches, trees show distress, weeds grow.
Gee tells neighboring homeowners he is losing money on course, begins discussions with them on development options that might be acceptable.
2014
Oct.
Save the Lakes, comprising neighbors opposed to development and dedicated to golf-only use of property, begins door-to-door campaign against Pulte proposal. City Councilman Sal DiCiccio, who represents Ahwatukee, says most logical outcome is for homeowners to take control of course.
Pulte Homes signs memorandum of understanding to purchase course with plans to build about 250 homes and leave 40 acres for green space, including 100-foot setback on property perimeter. Gee installs chain-link fencing topped by razor wire on property perimeter, citing liability issues. Neighbors complain that site resembles a drive through a prison. Two days later, workers begin removing fencing, instead fence only lakes on property’s interior.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
July
April
May
Pulte begins door-to-door campaign attempting to cultivate support from homeowners and gain necessary 50 percent plus one signatures needed to change golf course deed restrictions.
Gee announces lakes on closed golf course to be drained, wildlife — primarily ducks and turtles — to be moved to lakes at nearby Ahwatukee Country Club. Gee also apologizes for razor-topped fencing.
AHWATUKEE FARMS >> From page 6
He’s aware it mirrors nearby Gilbert’s Agritopia in many ways. “I’ve been in the land business for 25 years locally, and I’ve been aware of Agritopia since its infancy,” he said. “When we were working on this concept, I took a drive through there. I hadn’t visited in years. I just wanted to see what it feels like today as opposed to what it was on paper, and it just felt really good to me. “Then when you look at the longstanding history of agriculture in the Ahwatukee and Kyrene areas, and you hear about the emerging trends of community-supported agriculture, farm to table, healthy lifestyle and promoting a sense of community by creating a central gathering place, it sort of came together at the right time. It started to all click,” he said. Sabow envisions the community gardens being a membership-based coop, administered by an Ahwatukee Farms home owners association. Details will evolve, he said.
Montessori, market and cafe Shortly after True Life purchased the Lakes, the company was approached by owners of Desert Garden Montessori, a private nonprofit school at 5130 E. Warner Road, just west of Interstate 10, which was looking for a site for a larger campus. They were interested in buying a portion of the property for their new site. The emerging concept was explained. A part of Desert Garden’s curriculum already included agriculture. A partnership was formed. Sabow sees a new 5-acre Desert Garden campus at the Farms sharing in the community garden. In turn, the farmers market might share parking and perhaps use of a large open field on weekends when school is not in session. The farmers market and café, the only
Oct.
(Special to AFN)
the 5-acre community gardens, the farmers market and a café where farm-to-table produce would be served.
The west lake of Ahwatukee Farms would be “surrounded by lush greenery, an extensive trail system and connections into adjacent neighborhoods,” the True Life Companies said. Some trees would be mature when planted, although a company spokesman said it was too early to say how many would be mature versus how many saplings would be planted.
The plan does not include multi-family “ apartment buildings of any kind. ” –David Sabow commercial component of the project, would be open to the public. Sabow said he plans to reach out to Ahwatukee Board of Management, which for 12 years has hosted a weekend farmers market that typically draws 1,500 to 2,000 people, about relocating that activity to the Farms. It had outgrown the parking lot at ABM offices, on Warner just west of 48th Street, five years ago and began to pare participants, he said, adding that The Farms would have a larger space to offer. While surrounding property is governed by Ahwatukee Board of Management, the
Ahwatukee residents Eileen Breslin and Linda Swain, members of Save the Lakes, sue Gee for breach of contract, claiming violation of deed restrictions by closing golf course.
Sept.
David Boisvert, chief appraiser for Maricopa County, says Gee may be forced to pay as much as $1.6 million in tax benefits plus interest and penalties for closing course under statute that gives golf course owners tax benefit of $500 per acre as long as it is operated as a golf course.
2015
Nov.
June
Trails, open space and homes A minimum 30-foot buffer would surround the entire 101 acres of the Farms under the new plan. “This is not walled off,” Sabow said. “In an
2016
The True Life Companies, real estate firms whose goal is to provide lots and land to home builders, purchase Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club from Gee.
Pulte, facing strong public opposition that includes 2,000 signatures on petition, abandons plans to buy golf course property from Gee.
former golf course property is not, although that could change, Sabow said. Ahwatukee Farms would have its own HOA, he said, adding that other neighborhoods have both ABM and a sub HOA. “We are more than open to the idea of being included in ABM down the road,” Sabow said.
Oct.
Responding to complaints of property neglect resulting in public eyesore, with Phoenix citing dying trees and weeds, True Life begins cleanup of property.
effort to promote a healthy-living lifestyle, we are inviting all of Ahwatukee into this community, and we are incorporating a trail system throughout that provides connectivity from Lakeside meandering all the way down to 48th Street.” The central area would include wide boulevard leading to the neighborhoods, which would incorporate pocket parks. “The idea is to have a community that resembles our renderings,” he continued, adding: “We’re trying to sell a concept that will allow us to file a zoning case. We fully recognize the sensitivity of the situation, and we’re not looking to lift the deed restrictions without replacing them. We’re looking to impose restrictions that will be far greater than required by the city in a typical subdivision.” >> See AHWATUKEE FARMS on page 8
Aug.
Feb.
Late-night fire described as “suspicious” guts Ahwatukee Lakes’ abandoned clubhouse. After investigators complete their work, True Life razes the building’s remains.
True Life Companies, acknowledging Lakes-area homeowners’ longstanding sensitivity to development of golf course property, rolls out Ahwatukee Farms plan.
July
Maricopa County Superior Court Judge John Hannah rules in favor of Breslin and Swain that deed restrictions enacted two decades earlier require operation of golf course at Ahwatukee Lakes.
ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016
Page 7
>> From page 7
Sabow said that, while the homes would not be custom-built, they would be higher-priced houses than those in the area surrounding the site, calling them “upscale.” He predicted they would drive up the value of the existing houses. He also stressed that the plan does not include multi-family apartment buildings of any kind.
Mitigating runoff, drainage
Against the vision of a rustic, farm-theme project with lushly landscaped high-end homes, the walkability of a trail system, connectivity of a school and satisfaction of growing produce is the reality that some community members will settle for nothing less than a new golf course on the property. True Life’s prospects of persuading some members of the community will be formidable, Sabow admits.
And there are other hurdles. While True Life is current on the property taxes, according to Sabow, in August 2015 Maricopa County assessed a penalty of roughly $1.4 million. That assessment was placed under a law that gives golf-course owners a propertytax break but charges a 10-year look-back on the difference that would have been assessed on the property as vacant land.
“
True Life said “elegant landscaped boulevards welcome residents and neighbors” and that roads would be pedestrian-friendly.
Central to the plan is a farmers market and cafe where farm-to-table produce is served. –David Sabow
the vision we have for the property truly is an asset for all of Ahwatukee. “True Life’s job is to be as transparent as possible. It takes time. We’re here for as long as it takes. We’re in this for the long haul,” said Sabow.
The penalty kicks in when a course is closed. “We are contesting that penalty because, in our minds, the use has not yet changed,” Sabow said. “There needs to be something tangible that solidifies change of use so we have not paid the penalty.” True Life begins taking its message to ABM property owners this week. Postcards are in the mail, and a website will be activated today – www.AhwatukeeFarms.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Due to the breaking nature of this news, AFN was unable to get response to the project from others in the community. Response from elected officials and interested parties will be our lead story in next week’s edition. For more information on the proposal, visit True Life Companies’ website dedicated to the plan at www.AhwatukeeFarms.com.
”
com – that Sabow says will have comprehensive information and answers to frequently asked questions about its proposal. “It is a sensitive topic. People will have questions,” Sabow said. “We want all of Ahwatukee to embrace this, so our outreach will be to much more than members of ABM and the adjacent households. We hope that the community recognizes that
(Special to AFN)
Hydrology was among concerns expressed by community members over Pulte’s plan. True Life hired the engineering firm Hilgart Wilson to assess the property, according to Sabow. “There have been many, many claims that have been made that are not factual about ‘if one home is built here,’ ” Sabow said of possible flooding due to storm runoff from South Mountain. “The first thing we do when we evaluate the possibilities of a property is to evaluate the constraints. We did that.” According to Sabow, the entire property is outside of Maricopa County Flood Control District floodplain boundaries, and no special-use permit or flood insurance is required. “The number one constraint on this property, from my perspective, is the hydrology situation,” Sabow said. “When we’re assessing risk, that is of paramount importance. It is a very big deal. “You’ll see a significant accommodation for drainage.”
The campaign begins
(Special to AFN)
AHWATUKEE FARMS
A stone bridge would be the entry point to Ahwautkee Farms’ northwest neighborhood. The bridge and associated drainage network would “play an important role in the comprehensive storm water management system,” True Life’s plan says.
Page 8
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
Police accuse Ahwatukee woman of embezzlement By Paul Maryniak AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS EDITOR
An Ahwatukee woman has been arrested on charges she embezzled more than $165,000 from a Scottsdale company, driving it out of business. Candace Jane Sutherland-Mott, 41, of E. Mountain Sky Avenue, faces a preliminary hearing Aug. 9 on one felony count of theft in connection with her July 20 arrest. The Phoenix Police affidavit for her arrest states that Sutherland-Mott used three different schemes between 2010 and 2013 to siphon the money. It also says she first told detectives her employer authorized the transactions but that she “then stated she took advantage of the victim.” Records show the company, Schweitzer Development Co, officially went out of business in August of last year. Sutherland-Mott wrote $85,652 worth of checks from the company account to herself “or to pay personal bills, dental bills, credit card bills, Cox Communication bills, to name a few,” the affidavit states. It also says she misused a company credit card to cover $31,415 worth of transactions at car rental agencies, gas
stations, restaurants and car repair shops. She also stole $48,415 in unauthorized cash withdrawals from the company’s account, the affidavit alleges. Sutherland-Mott’s LinkedIn.com profile shows she joined Schweitzer in January 2009 after a four-month stint as a nanny. Her profile says she was vice president and office manager for Schweitzer and that her responsibilities included maintaining services and payroll records, overseeing general construction projects, handling contract negotiations and bids on projects, and running background checks on employees and subcontractors. The arrest affidavit says her “unauthorized transactions caused (Schweitzer Development) to close and cease operations.” She was released on her own recognizance after her arrest pending next week’s hearing. Her LinkedIn profile said she worked for Schweitzer Development until October 2013, when she took her current job as a project manager for a Phoenix developer.
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Montana Vista LISTED FOR
$564,900
Impeccably cared for 2,912 sf, 4 bedroom, 3 full bathroom home! Gated community! Kitchen boasts upgraded cherry wood cabinets with large island/breakfast bar and Corian counter tops. Open kitchen-family room floor plan. Split master floor plan. Pebble tec pool with water feature; kool decking resurfaced in 2016. Grass area in backyard and breath-taking mountain views! Extended and over-height 3 car garage. Epoxy garage floor. Freshly painted exterior including block wall and pool fence. Baseboards freshly painted in 2016.
Sonterra LISTED FOR
$310,000
Mountain Views from this corner lot home! 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms plus den that can easily be used as a 4th bedroom. This popular floor plan is located in Mountain Park Ranch. Mountain Park Ranch boasts three Jr. Olympic size community pools. Tennis courts and award winning Kyrene School District. Close to freeways, shopping, dining, golf courses and hiking trails.
Finesterra at Valencia LISTED FOR
$615,000
5 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom 4,663 sf highly upgraded basement home. Finished basement is currently set up as a media room. Gated community. 1/3 acre lot! Elaborate, custom swim-up Gazebo! Pebble tec pool with grand water feature and slide. Built in BBQ, outdoor bar, and extensive hardscape with Cantera stone pavers.
Ahwatukee Retirement LISTED FOR
$195,000
Upgraded home on spectacular golf course lot! Incredible view of the golf course! 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1,526 sf home. Kitchen boasts granite-look counter tops and trendy white kitchen cabinetry with upgraded hardware. Newer carpet and wood burning fireplace. No popcorn ceilings! Master bedroom has large closets and master bathroom has step-in shower. Situated in a quiet cul-de-sac.
The difference between ordinary and etxraordinary is that little extra!
(AFN file photo)
COMING SOON!
Meticulously cared-for single level 2,550 sf home that backs to a plush greenbelt! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, split master floor plan. Open kitchen-family room concept. Kitchen boasts granite slab counters, Blanco extra deep sink, custom painted cabinetry with trendy hardware and island/breakfast bar. Gorgeous travertine flooring. Backyard has sparkling pebble tec pool, grass area, built in gas BBQ, citrus trees and covered patio. Extensive landscape lighting in front and back. Three car garage with built-in garage cabinets. Gas fireplace, central vac, soft water system, drinking water filtration, security system. Newer AC units. The upgrades are endless!
Long lines into the evening were the order of the day during the Presidential Preference Election in Phoenix earlier this year. Voters who mailed in early ballots didn’t get stuck.
By Paul Maryniak TRIBUNE EDITOR
As early voting begins today, Ahwatukee Republicans have a couple big reasons to cast a ballot in this year’s primary election. The Democrats? Not so much. But several heated Republican contests could bring out registered independents, who can choose to vote in either major party’s primary races. Those high contested races involve the state senatorial district that includes Ahwatukee and one of Arizona’s seats in the U.S. Senate. Monday was the last day to register to vote in the primary, though registered voters have until Aug. 19 to sign up for a mail-in ballot. Topping the state-wide ballot for Republicans is a highly contested battle pitting incumbent U.S. Senator John McCain against three candidates, one of them a writein. If the intensity of online advertising is any indication, his chief rival is Dr. Kelli Ward, a Lake Havasu family physician who had been a state Senator. Groups supporting McCain have been attacking her for extremist positions, while some Republicans have accused McCain of abandoning conservative principles and working too closely with Democrats. Also challenging McCain’s run for a seventh term are Clair Van Steenwyk, a retired Sun City food industry executive; and write-in candidate Sean Webster, a Phoenix small business owner. Alex Meluskey, a Scottsdale graphics company owner, dropped out of the race Sunday and threw his support to Ward. The Democratic candidate likely to win the primary is U.S. Congresswoman Ann Kirkpatrick, who faces only write-in >> See VOTING on page 23
Page 10
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
The primary by the numbers Here are the most recent figures for voters in the East Valley, according to the Maricopa County Recorder. The numbers in parentheses represent the latest totals of permanently registered early voters. “Others” includes independents and people registered to unrecognized political parties; they can obtain either a Republican or Democratic ballot and vote in the primary election.
Registered Republicans 85044 85045 85048 Ahwatukee 6th Coun. Dist. Phoenix LD 18
7,843 1,892 7,898 17,633 39,900 196,412 47,850
(6,002) (1,448) (6,009) (13,459) (30,193) (41,395) (34,444)
Registered Democrats 85044 85045 85048 Ahwatukee 6th Coun. Dist. Phoenix LD 18
Others
85044 85045 85048 Ahwatukee 6th Coun. Dist. Phoenix LD 18
6,910 (5,336) 1,892 (829) 5,473 (4,192) 14,275 (10,357) 33,355 (25,698) 227,130 (167,197) 40,307 (30,221) 7,364 (4,755) 1,528 (1,035) 6,632 (4,270) 15,524 (10,060) 34,160 (21,265) 245,402 (133,876) 43,954 (26,710)
McCain touts experience in East Valley appearance
Ahwatukee’s #1 Team for Over 28 Years
480-706-7234
Mike Mendoza
www.MendozaTeam.com
Mountain Park Ranch
The Foothills
Abundant upgrades in this TW Lewis home including new carpet and plantation shutters. Spacious kitchen boasts slab granite counters, refinished cabinetry plus stacked-stone island. Master suite with gorgeous custom tile shower. Private oasis backyard features a pool, sport court , built-in BBQ and gazebo. 2013 exterior paint. 2015 roof and A/C. 2016 pool filter system.
Amazing mountain views from gorgeous remodel on corner lot. 4 br, 3 ba plus den with 2,914 sq. ft. Spacious eat-in kitchen features granite countertops, raised-panel cherry cabinetry with pullouts and breakfast bar. Flooring includes 18" tile and new carpet. Plantation shutters and 2" wood blinds throughout. Solar heated play pool with waterfall. 2012 A/C units.
The Foothills
Mountain Park Ranch
Listed for $425,000
(Special to AFN)
Listed for $518,500
John McCain visited Hispanic supporters in Mesa during a town hall at Mango’s restaurant.
By Shelley Ridenour AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER
The world is in the midst of “the most difficult times,” Arizona’s senior U.S. Sen. John McCain told a crowd of about 50 at a downtown Mesa event July 19. To a crowded house at Mango’s restaurant, the Republican said all of the ISIS activity means “we are living in a more dangerous world than ever before.” That’s not just his opinion, McCain said, but is shared by military and intelligence officials at the federal level. He and those other folks all believe that there will be more attacks such as the tragedy in Nice, France, and other recent bombings. McCain said his base of knowledge of military issues and terror activities is part of the reason he can continue to serve in the Senate. He is seeking re-election this fall. McCain was in the Navy for 22 years and was a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War for five and a half years. He is chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee and a member of the Senate’s committees on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, as well as Indian Affairs. McCain said he’s proud to have been in the military and told the members of the Hispanic Coalition, who arranged the gathering, that “Arizona provides more to our military than any other state.” He cited Boeing and its Apache helicopters, Luke Air Force Base, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and the Marine contingency at Yuma. McCain emphasized to the audience that
the southern border with Mexico isn’t as secure as it should be. But, he said, 40 percent of all illegal immigrants didn’t sneak across a border, but rather came to the U.S. on a visa that has since expired. McCain said he’s always “favored a path to citizenship” for such people living in the U.S. illegally. “It won’t be easy,” he said. He wants those people to undergo background checks, pay back taxes, learn English and “get in line to get a green card.” That process will take years, McCain said, perhaps as long as a decade. McCain said his decades of representing Arizona people in the Senate make him “believe the Hispanic community has been and will be an important part of our state.” McCain didn’t specifically answer a question about how he could help the state ensure that Arizonans can keep their guns if federal gun laws change. “Let me point out that none of us want guns in the wrong hands,” he said. The key is keeping “weapons out of the hands of the people who shouldn’t have them.” Responding to another question, McCain said decisions about issuing driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants should be made by state officials, not the federal government. McCain faces challenges in the Aug. 30 primary election from Republicans Clair Van Steenwyk, Kelli Ward and write-in candidate Sean Webster. — Contact Shelley Ridenour at 480-898-6533 or sridenour@ahwatukee.com.
Beautiful remodeled hillside home. 4 br, 2.5 ba with Great greenbelt lot close to abundant Mountain Park 2,161 sq. ft. Eat-in kitchen features cherry cabinetry, stainless Ranch amenities. 4 br, 3 ba with 2,739 sq. ft. Master steel appliances and granite countertops. Master suite with suite with view balcony. 17" tile, carpet and wood travertine shower and flooring. Upgraded 17" tile, birch Pergo flooring, Plantation shutters and shade screens. Resort-style laminate flooring in 2011. Energy efficient windows in backyard with lush landscaping, flagstone, built-in DCS grill, 2007. Solar hot water system and Goettl A/C units in Kiva plus sparkling pool and spa with Kool deck.
Listed for $415,000
2009. Exterior and interior paint in 2013.
Listed for $375,000
Lakewood
Arizona Greens
Rare single level with basement. 4 br, 3 ba with 2,874 sq. ft. Kitchen features granite countertops, cherry raised-panel cabinetry, stainless steel appliances and island breakfast bar. Master bath remodel with granite, new cabinetry and stone throughout. Extended covered patio with pavers plus spa with waterfall.
Located near Club West Golf Course. 4 br plus loft, 2.5 ba with 2,179 sq.ft. Great room floor plan with spacious open kitchen with island. All new interior paint, carpet and tile in bathrooms. Private backyard with covered patio.
Listed for $325,000
Listed for $229,900
Foothills Reserve
Club West
Recent price reduction. 6 br plus den, 4.5 ba with 3,858 sq. ft. Gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, breakfast bar and walk-in pantry. Stacked-stone wall with fireplace in family room. Spacious master suite with mountain views from balcony. Private sparkling pool with gated entry.
Desirable Ritz floorplan by UDC. 4 br, 2.5 ba with 2,850 sq. ft. Large eat-in kitchen features granite countertops, island and stainless steel appliances. Just updated with new carpet, interior and exterior paint plus epoxy flooring in 3-car garage. North/South Exposure with mountain views. Private backyard with pool and spa
Listed for $389,900
Listed for $428,500
www.MendozaTeam.com Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated
ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016
Page 11
Ahwatukee Lakes clubhouse fire ‘suspicious’ but arson still uncertain, officials say By Jim Walsh
The long-closed clubhouse, pictured here in August 2015, had become a haven for vandals, Phoenix Fire officials said.
take defensive tactics. “It’s still under investigation, and they have no answers,’’ Riddle-Bigler said, referring to fire investigators. “We know there has been a political issue. That doesn’t change anything as far as the investigation goes.’’ That “political issue” involves a dispute between residents and the property’s owners over the future of the former golf course. The residents are suing the owners in an effort to force the course’s rehabilitation. In a March 25 report to Fire Chief Kara Kalkbrenner, Assistant Fire Chief Kelvin Bartee wrote that investigators have
Demolition crews in March cleared the charred remains of the Ahwatukee Lakes clubhouse.
Page 12
(Lee Shappell/AFN Editor)
The suspicious late-night fire that destroyed the clubhouse at the closed Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club remains the subject of an “open investigation’’ more than four months after flames shot through the sky and firefighters from three cities responded to put out the blaze. From the start, news reports called the Feb. 28 fire suspicious, but proving that it was a case of arson and identifying a potential suspect is quite another matter. A private investigation by the property’s owners concluded it was arson. The official Phoenix Fire Department investigation leans toward arson but said other causes cannot be ruled out. “They just can’t prove it. It’s an open case,’’ said Capt. Reda Riddle-Bigler, a Phoenix Fire Department spokeswoman. “They know the fire is suspicious. They found evidence that points to an accelerant being present. When flames are showing through the roof and there is some collapse, that tells us it had been burning for quite awhile,’’ she said, adding that it probably had been burning at least 20 minutes before firefighters arrived. Riddle-Bigler, who responded to the fire with dozens of other firefighters, said she could see smoke from Interstate 10 that night. “It was a big fire. You have potential for the first-responders to get hurt,’’ she said. “There was a large amount of fire. That structure practically burned to the ground.’’ But one fortunate factor was that the clubhouse sat on an open piece of property and there were no potential exposures to the homes of nearby residents. No one was injured; firefighters saw parts of the building collapse and decided not to enter but instead
(AFN file photo)
AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
identified the area of the fire’s origin but not the source. Stating that causes other than arson cannot be ruled out, the report called the cause “undetermined.” No suspects had been identified, the report added. “While evidence supports that this fire is human-caused, investigators currently are unable to disprove all possible hypotheses as required,” Bartee wrote. Those hypotheses included “reports of significant transient activity in the building for several months prior to the fire, and the inability to rule out multiple possible causes within the area of origin,” he added. “For these reasons, the fire is currently classified as undetermined.” Today, the former golf course in the 13400 block of South 44th Street, south of Warner Road, is a barren site. Only a couple of low block walls and a concrete slab remain as evidence that a clubhouse once existed on the property. Cart paths lead to the site where the clubhouse once functioned as a place to pay for a round of golf or meet with friends. But the paths lead only to something that looks more like a moonscape than a golf course. A few trees have survived, breaking up the otherwise drab surroundings. The outlines of some sand traps are easy to make out. A large, dry pit that once was a lake is
prominent on the south side of 44th Street. Nothing even vaguely resembles a putting green or a fairway. Police and firefighters say the clubhouse had become a haven for transients or possibly teenagers having parties. City Council member Sal DiCiccio, who represents the district that includes Ahwatukee, criticized the property owners, the True Life Companies, for failing to better secure the clubhouse. “I am hoping for a resolution, not just a cause,” DiCiccio said, adding that the fate of golf courses in Ahwatukee is vitally important to residents because they provide open space. “We would like to find the people who did this.’’ He said that the fire was suspicious on face value because city inspectors were scheduled to inspect the clubhouse the following day. Instead, Bartee’s report said, firefighters returned three days later with a dog trained by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms to sniff out flammable fluids. The report did not say if such fluids were found. Dave Sabow, managing director for True Life Companies in Arizona, said an independent investigation by a wellrespected arson investigator found it was >> See FIRE on page 13
>> From page 12
a case of arson, with multiple points of origin and a substantial amount of accelerants. “In our mind, it was arson. It’s just a matter of who did it,’’ Sabow said. He said the company had only liability insurance on the property. “There was no benefit to us with that building burning down. In fact, it was a financial hardship” that incurred $75,000 in demolition costs, Sabow said. While it would be “incredibly expensive” to restore the golf course, Sabow said, “we are evaluating all options available. It would make practical sense to provide an amenity to the community of Ahwatukee.” Quentin Thornton, project manager, said True Life had just installed new plywood and taken other measures to secure the building on the Friday prior to the fire. City officials notified the company that transients had entered the premises. “It was bolted down tight,” he said. “What we are concerned about is that someone who would cause that big of a fire is still in the community.” Riddle-Bigler said investigators are doing everything possible to identify the cause of the fire and have contacted school resource officers to see if they had heard anything from teenagers in the area. She said police had encountered problems with trespassing at the clubhouse. The electricity to the building had been shut off, eliminating another potential source of the blaze, she said. A Phoenix Fire Department Incident History Report does nothing to dispel the possibility of arson. It gives insight into what firefighters saw when they responded and how they decided to battle the fire, but it provides no official ruling on the cause. Units were dispatched at about 11:30 p.m. and started arriving minutes later. A woman who called 911 at 11:30 p.m., identified only as a nearby resident, reported spotting flames inside the clubhouse. A second caller reported the clubhouse was a vacant building, according to the report. By 11:50 p.m., firefighters had taken a defensive posture, realizing it was too late to save the building and fruitless to risk their lives by going inside the inferno. A fire captain was asked at 11:43 p.m. if an interior attack was possible. “We can make attack from here, but hesitated because patio is well involved and ready to come down probably,’’ according to notes in the report. His evaluation proved accurate at 12:15 a.m., with firefighters reporting a partial building collapse. Anyone with information about how the fire started or who might be responsible is asked to call 480-WITNESS.
Good Samaritan finds, returns Ahwatukee 6-year-old’s stolen Little Free Library
Anna Wolcott and her mother Heather display the Little Free Library before it was stolen last month. A Good Samaritan found it and return it to her last Friday.
By Paul Maryniak AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS EDITOR
On the day that 6-year-old Anna Wolcott began her summer vacation in San Diego, the Little Free Library she had worked on for three months was stolen from the front yard of her home. On the day she returned from that vacation last Friday, she got it back, thanks to a Good Samaritan who lives in South Phoenix. Anna had only learned the library was stolen the day before she returned. Her mother didn’t want to ruin her daughter’s vacation by telling her. She had been dreading that moment for weeks. Then, last Thursday, she sat Anna down. “I was trying not to cry and I told her that her library was so pretty and so cool that someone thought they could just take it,” Heather Wolcott said. “Her eyes got so big and the first thing she said was, ‘You mean I’m not a librarian anymore?’ “Then I told her not to worry because we already got her a new one that she could build and decorate and she perked up about that,” Wolcott continued. “She said, ‘Well, it’s good that other kids are getting to read books, too. It was funny that it seemed so simple to tell her after I worried all those weeks.” Anna also learned from her mom about how many people were moved by the news of the theft and had offered to help pay the
approximate $400 it costs to get a Little Free Library. The libraries come in a kit is hand-made by Amish carpenters as part of a program designed to encourage literacy. Anna made the library as part of a kindergarten project focused on giving back to the community. She raised some money from friends, neighbors and even classmates and teachers. Then she spent three months painting and decorating the library, gathering so many donated books that her parents’ garage is stuffed with them. She held a grand opening June 25. Sometime on the night of July 4 or early July 5, the library and the table it was screwed to was taken. So far, 36,000 Little Free Libraries have been erected in front yards and other places in 70 different countries. The libraries are about the size of a mini-fridge and are stuffed with used books for children and adults of all ages and users to borrow, then returned for others to read. That principle in a way brought the Good Samaritan and Wolcott together last Friday. Early that morning, she received a text from a man who identified himself as Mike. He told her that he found her name and number on a laminated card Wolcott had put inside the library. The card explained that people were welcome to borrow a book. Whoever took the library had no intention of using it to read.
(AFN file photo)
FIRE
The thief had put it on a website for sale at a price of $80, using a false name. Mike saw the library online and thought his niece would like it, so he bought it for $75 and brought it home. “He said, ‘I think I’ve got something that belongs to you,’” Wolcott said. Mike did not return numerous phone calls from the Ahwatukee Foothills News. They exchanged texts several times as they arranged a meeting place. Cautioned by her husband and some friends not to meet a stranger alone, Wolcott arranged to have a couple of police officers accompany her to a rendezvous at the Walmart parking lot at 24th Street and Baseline Road. Shortly after she arrived, she saw Mike lugging the library on a dolly. “His car wouldn’t start so he figured he’d just walk it there in the hot sun. He said it was only 20 minutes away,” Wolcott said. The table that the library had been screwed to was missing and it was a bit marred, Wolcott said. But otherwise, it was in good condition. Despite Mike’s protest, Wolcott insisted that he take a reward of $200. Police are working with Mike to track down the thief. And while Anna was delighted to have her original library back, she had one question, her mom said: “She asked, ‘Does this mean I can’t make the new one?’”
ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 13
“Your Ahwatukee Home Seller”
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
Nurses sweep through narrow aisles in a dimly lit room, tending to tiny patients born prematurely or with problems. A mother is here for hours, watching her baby born 10 weeks too soon, touching the hands of her son to the beeps and buzzes of the machines that monitor her boy. Still, as much as she wants to be here always, she has a 3-year-old daughter at home who also needs her. But Ashlee Minton’s smartphone and the camera that hovers over her son Michael in his crib provide a 24-hour view of his life at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. The hospital is the only one in Arizona and among a few in the country to have the camera technology, according to Barb Harvey, manager of the neonatal unit. The cameras allow families to use a smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop computer to check on their child, day or night. Each login is private so families only see their child. “Michael had surgery the other day and I was able to just login to the camera and see how he was doing,” Minton said. Michael, now 9 months old, is a “preemie” who developed ascites, a dangerous buildup
of fluid in his abdomen and other organs. Minton saw her son flat-line several times. He has lived his young life in three hospitals, the last four months at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. The camera, clutched in a metal claw similar to those in arcade toy machines, is suspended over 31 cribs. Recently, Minton and her daughter Elizabeth could watch him as he squirmed or slept. “I pull it up before she goes to bed at night and she gives him a kiss goodnight on my phone,” Minton said. The cameras provided relief and reassurance in the rare times when she and her husband could not be at the hospital. Minton tried to balance her time with her daughter and her son, concerned about staying with him but leaving her daughter. “I was really worried about her feeling neglected or feeling animosity towards her brother.” Before the camera was installed a call to the nurse’s station was her only lifeline. “I was neurotic,” Minton said. “Instead of calling and having to wait to talk to a nurse I could just login and see how he was doing.”
AROUND AHWATUKEE
Sen. Flake to address Ahwatukee GOP Women U.S. Senator Jeff Flake will be the featured speaker at a breakfast fundraiser sponsored by the Ahwatukee Republican Women later this month. The breakfast is 7:30-9:30 a.m. Aug. 16 at the Four Points by Sheraton Phoenix, 10631 S. 51st St., Ahwatukee. Tickets are $25 for members and $30 for non-members. VIP sponsorship opportunities and table host packages can be arranged by contacting Mary Baumbach at 480-496-0852 or emailing maryb85044@yahoo.com. Registration can be made at www. ahwatukeerepublicanwomen.com
Ahwatukee Kiwanians need baby shower items The Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club still needs items for the baby shower it is throwing for as many as 60 pregnant foster girls who attend Compadre High School’s Adolescent Pregnancy and Parenting Program. Members are collecting everything from toys and packages of diapers to new and used toddler clothing. Friday is the deadline for donations. For information, contact info@ ahwatukeekiwanis.org or Andi Pettyjohn at 602-402-6267. Or you can drop off gift items at any of these locations: • Ahwatukee Swim Center, 4700 E. Warner Road, Ahwatukee. • Mountain Park Senior Living, 4475 E. Knox Road, Ahwatukee. • Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. • Yota Pros, 7144 S. Priest Drive, Tempe. • The Specific Chiropractic Center Ahwatukee, 4425 E. Agave Road, Suite 104, Ahwatukee. • Post Net 4605 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite 1100, Ahwatukee. • Seattle Espresso 1840 E. Warner Road, Tempe.
Cub Scout Pack 278 recruiting new members Boys in grades 1-5 are sought by Cub Scout Pack 278, which says it will teach the youngsters to be helpful and friendly while they have fun camping, making rockets, and racing pinewood derby cars. The pack draws boys from a number of Ahwatukee schools, including Colina, Lomas, Monte Vista, Horizon, and Summit. Interested boys and their parents are invited to the pack’s first meeting at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 15 in rooms 5 and 6 at
WANT MORE?
Corpus Christi Church, 3350 E. Knox Road, Ahwatukee. No commitment will be required. Information: nanzdiggs@gmail.com, www.azpack278.com.
There’s always more ways to Get Out on our website: www.Ahwatukee.com
Ahwatukee travelers can donate blood faster United Blood Services has scheduled a new round of bloodmobile visits in Ahwatukee, and this time, travelers to areas impacted by the Zika Virus can donate more readily. United said in a release that a new, fast test has been developed, making it unnecessary for travelers to wait 28 days before they donate blood. There is still a deferral for travelers who visited areas impacted by malaria. United said blood of all types is urgently needed and that donors who give by Aug. 31 are eligible to join a raffle of a 2016 VW Passat S that was donated by area Volkswagen dealers. All donors also will get a $50 voucher for a free ride from Lyft. Donors can make an appointment by calling 1-877-827-4376 or at www.bloodhero. com. Or they can visit one of these Ahwatukee locations and give at the United’s bloodmobile: 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Monday, Charles Schwab & Co., 4750 E. Francisco Drive; 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Aug. 25, Telgian, 10230 S. 50th Place; or 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 27, On the Border, 5005 E. Ray Road.
Caffe Boa slates annual summer wine dinner Caffe Boa, 5063 E. Elliot Road, Ahwatukee, will offer a three-course dinner paired with Napa’s Cellars summer wines at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 18. Live music also will be featured at the dinner, which has limited seating and will cost $58.95 per person before taxes and tip. Information: 480-893-3331, www. caffeboa.com
Ahwatukee kids’ theater slates mini classes The Ahwatukee Children’s Theater, 11011 S. 48th St., Suite B-101, will hold an open house with mini classes in show choir, musicals and dance 9:30 a.m.-noon Saturday. Kids also can meet staff and win prizes that include free tickets to an upcoming show, free tuition for a class for a semester, and free voice lessons. Information: 480-705-9319, Actregister@ yahoo.com.
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480-403-9506 You Have to See It to Believe It! SummitSchoolAz.org
Preschool • Elementary • Middle School ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 15
By Tuesday Mahrle AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER
Around dusk at the Desert Breeze Park in Chandler, a young girl squeals “Squirtle!” and begins running across the grass with her mother’s cellphone. Desert Breeze has been named one of the top 10 locations in the East Valley for rare Pokemon characters and “leveling up.” Day or night, people are wandering local parks, libraries and downtown hotspots playing the virtual game Pokemon Go. Swarms of players of all ages can be found at Old Town Gilbert, Usery Mountain Park and the Phoenix Zoo. Despite the triple-digit heat, local companies are seeing a boom in foot traffic. “It’s amazing to see how many young professionals are out after work playing this game,” said Jacie Cotterell of Mesa. “Especially at areas with multiple Poke Stops like the Commemorative Air Force museum.” Local stores, churches, restaurants, and bars are taking full advantage of the Pokemon Go craze. Churches have opened their doors to all denominations after
discovering they are a Poke Stop or “gym,” virtual arenas where players may battle against one another. There, players can lose or raise their “prestige” points. Gyms require extended amounts of time in that location. Bars and restaurants have started Pokemon Go happy hours and parties. Pokemon Go singles events have inundated Facebook. “Pokemon Go is the fan service my 10-year-old self always wanted,” said Jamie Alcumbrac of Tempe. In a matter of weeks, Pokemon Go has become the biggest mobile game in history with 21 million users. The game arrived with no instructions, tips or strategies. In turn, Facebook groups and technology blogs exploded with how-to’s overnight. Google maps, built by fans, show locations of Poke Stops, rare characters and gyms. One such map of stops is at tiny.cc/ pokemonmap. Poke Stops are driving people to places often-overlooked places. Ahwatukee busnesses join craze. See p.42
(Special to AFN)
Pokemon Go drives gamers to East Valley hotspots
Michele Henry plays Pokemon Go on Mill Avenue in Tempe.
Pokemon safety tips Chasing after Pokemon characters can take some time. Here are some tips to stay safe while you do. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing: The idea may be a quick walk around the park, but that can turn into hours. Have some reliable footwear and clothes on so the game doesn’t have to end early. Bring a rain jacket. Have water and snacks: Pokemon Go was released during the Arizona summer. Have several water bottles and some snack bars available when needed. Tell somewhere the plan: Make sure people know the area being hunted. Stick to that area and inform others if it changes. Never hunt alone: Always use the buddy system when playing Pokemon Go. The game also rewards players who work together. Stay alert at all times: Always be aware of your surroundings. The game takes players to new and interesting places. Check the area before walking, especially around cars. Never drive and Pokemon Go: Put the phone down. The game isn’t worth hurting or killing others. Do not trespass: Always check for hours of business. Never walk or drive through areas marked ‘Restricted’ or ‘Staff Only.’ Many businesses now have signs to help players navigate around these areas. Page 16
(Will Powers/AFN Staff Photographer)
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF
Two Pokemon Go fans look for the characters to catch along Mill Avenue in Tempe.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
Ahwatukee delegate stirs DNC discussion of police-involved shootings CRONKITE NEWS
PHILADELPHIA – A delegate from Ahwatukee helped turn the normally placid breakfast meetings of Arizona’s delegates to the Democratic National Convention into a lively discussion of the Black Lives Matter movement last Thursday, one day after Tempe police fatally shot a black suspect during a robbery. Ahwatukee delegate M. Lisa Scinto noted that delegates who attended a Black Caucus meeting a day earlier had been urged by former Attorney General Eric Holder to talk about officer-involved shootings of black people. “At the Black Caucus meeting yesterday, Eric Holder talked about it very, very much,” she said. “He told us we need to talk about this.” “It was an outstanding meeting where he discussed police interactions with the African-American community,” Scinto told the Ahwatukee Foothills News. ‘Attorney General Holder felt that the only way we are ever going to make any progress addressing African American’s complaints is to bring it up as topics of discussion. It is still an uncomfortable topic in diverse settings; but we are all Americans and it is an American problem not just a black problem.”
Scinto said that while Holder also noted “that most interactions between the police and people of color are positive, police brutality has existed in the United States since the end of the Civil War. The only difference between examples of African American’s interactions with the police now, as opposed to the Jim Crow era, is the cell phone camera provides documentation of complaints that in the past we’re not believed.” As delegates waited for Thursday’s scheduled speaker, Scinto decided to bring up the Wednesday morning fatal shooting of an unarmed black man who police said was robbing a Walgreens pharmacy. A Tempe Police Department news release said the man told the pharmacist that he had a firearm in his bag. The officer involved in the shooting was wearing a body camera, but it was shut off, the department said. Scinto said she brought up the shooting at the convention meeting because a speaker was late and she simply asked, “OK, we’re all from Arizona. Did you all know this happened?’” “I brought up the shooting because it was in our backyard.” she added. After she raised the issue, other delegates chimed in with opinions on the Black Lives
Matter movement and on officer-involved shootings. Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Phoenix, who was moderating the meeting, said he is working with Rep. Hank Johnson, D-Georgia, on legislation to change policies that encourage police to use military-grade equipment. But Gallego told delegates he was not the person who could make the most change. “If you want to see change you need to push this at the local level,” Gallego said. While Scinto said she wants to see more attention on the issue, she said that she understands some of the hesitation and lack of action, saying that the movement has yet to find “a Martin Luther King Jr..” “I think that there is concern but I think that most people, myself included, don’t know what to do next,” she said. “We need a good strong leader.” She added: “My question to the delegates was how do we react? This did not happen in Ferguson or Baltimore, but in our own backyard. Are we going shake our heads and say oh that’s too bad and move on? Or do we address this in a peaceful, thoughtful, effective manner?” –The Ahwatukee Foothills News contributed to this report.
(Special to AFN)
By Emily Zentner
M. Lisa Scinto of Ahwatukee was a delegate to the Democratic convention.
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
Preparing for the worst is a matter of faith as Mormons stockpile groceries and church preaches self-reliance By Mike Butler You’ve probably seen them in the bulk aisles at the WinCo in Chandler and various other area megastores. You’re there to get hot dogs, baked beans and diet sodas for the weekend barbecue. The shopper beside you is filling her cart with heavy sacks of flour, rice and beans. She’s grabbing big cans of freeze-dried meals and piling up pallets of drinking water. On the drive home later, you wonder if maybe you’ve encountered an East Valley doomsday prepper who stockpiles automatic weapons in addition to great quantities of food. Perhaps. But it’s much more likely that the neighbors you saw at the store were average East Valley Mormons practicing their faith. In the brochure “All Is Safely Gathered In,” published by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 2007 and still widely distributed, The First Presidency wrote: “We encourage Church members worldwide to prepare for adversity in life by having a basic supply of food and water and some money in savings.” Beth Hansen, who teaches fellow East Valley church members and others about preparing for emergencies, says she and her friends in the Church aren’t fretting about the end of the world. They prepare for sudden job loss, power outages and floods that can disrupt family life. Mormons want to be self-reliant, she adds, so they can help others in times of need. “We’re taught to store for our families and neighbors,” she says. An early intervention habitation therapist for 3- to 6-year-old autistic kids, Hansen has made a second career out of teaching people how to create tasty freezedried meals and storing them long-term in Mylar bags. She founded the website mylarfoodstoragedinners.com and has written an e-book, “Touch of Gourmet: The New Age Food Storage Manual.” She shipped a big box of her homemade “just add water” meals to her brother in Seattle last year when a major winter storm knocked out power for days. Her other brother travels all over the world and takes Beth’s meals along whenever he goes to developing countries. “He calls them his Mormon MREs,” she says, like the military’s Meals Ready to Eat. Hansen says she can make a two-serving meal from individual freeze-dried ingredients in five minutes for less than 25 cents. A similar >> See MORMONS on page 21
(Mike Butler/AFN Staff Photographer)
AHWTAUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER
Rows of #10 cans of food fill the shelves of an East Valley supply store. One of the tenets of the Mormon faith is preparedness, and that means having food on hand. While many around the country purchase supplies online, the large percentage of Mormons in the East Valley result in local stores stocking for their needs. ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 19
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(Cheryl Haselhorst/Tribune Staff Photographer) An audience member takes notes during a class on preparing freeze-dried foods given at Honeyville Farms in Tempe.
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California, and sells online. She likes WinCo for bulk spices and the 10-cent, oxygen-absorbing packets that go into her Mylar meal bags. Like many other local Mormons, she also gets supplies at the LDS-run Mesa Cannery on El Dorado Circle. A lot of East Valley church members also like to shop at Preparing Wisely on Mesa Drive in Mesa, which has the added benefit of no city sales tax on food. The shop also carries a variety of clever water storage solutions and survival gear. Hansen advises food storage beginners to first establish a three-day supply of freezedried meals that can be stowed in a bugout bag, a backpack meant for evacuation scenarios. In addition to food and water, a proper bug-out bag should also contain basic survival items—an outdoor knife, a multitool, waterproof matches, a flashlight and an emergency blanket. Hansen says she piles on the protein for emergency meals and avoids using rice
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MORMONS entree from freeze-dried brand Mountain House, beloved by outdoor explorers and food storage advocates, would cost about $7. A #10 can of Mountain House freezedried beef stew costs about $25. Those savings, Hansen points out, can be invested in single-ingredient freeze-dried #10 cans. Plus, the cook controls the salt content and spiciness of every meal. Quick can math: The typical can of corn, tomato soup or chicken broth you buy at the grocery store is a #2. A #10 can equals five #2 cans. The #10 can is the gold standard of cafeterias and preparedness practitioners. Canned goods have a shelf life of two to three years. A can of freeze-dried food will last 10 to 15 years if stored properly. Once opened, a freeze-dried can needs to be consumed in about six to 12 months. Hansen says she gets her single-ingredient, freeze-dried meats, fruits and vegetables at the Honeyville retail store on Kyrene Road in Tempe. That’s also where many of her classes are held. Mormon-owned Honeyville has two stores in Utah, one in Rancho Cucamonga,
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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 21
Phoenix woman seeks more training for police to deal with the mentally ill By Sara Weber
(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer)
CRONKITE NEWS
Beth Hansen, who teaches fellow East Valley church members and others about preparing for emergencies, has written an e-book, “Touch of Gourmet: The New Age Food Storage Manual.”
MORMONS >> From page 21
or pasta, because it might not always be possible to boil water when you’re on the go. “In an emergency, you need calories,” she says. Enildo Leiva, owner of Preparing Wisely, says a peppermint candy is tucked away in his bug-out bag, knowing that a little luxury will be a huge comfort in a highstress situation. Once your family has a three-day supply of food, Hansen says, buy a few extra items to add to your storage every week. Gradually, you’ll build up a one-week supply, a onemonth supply and finally attain the ideal of a three-month supply. Hansen says families should stockpile foods that are a part of their normal diets and routinely draw on items from their threemonth supply to use in weekly meals. This avoids spoilage and ensures that you won’t be eating unfamiliar and boring foods during times of hardship. “A lot of people have this mentality that Page 22
they’ll be fine with rice and beans,” says Jared Petry, manager of the Honeyville Tempe store. “You’ll get food fatigue.” Rotating food storage is also more practical for East Valley homeowners who lack storage space, he explains. Even freeze-dried food will wither quickly if kept in a garage at summertime temperatures. Holly Jackson, a Mormon in Queen Creek, says food storage is a fantasy for a couple who has eight children. “I can’t keep up with them.” But Jackson and her husband have accumulated a 300-gallon reservoir of water to get them through tough times. “Living in Arizona,” she says, “we thought that was the No. 1 priority.” – Reach Mike Butler at 480-898-6581 or at mbutler@ahwtaukee.com. – Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills News on Facebook.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
Phoenix resident Mary Brncik first didn’t trust police, but now realizes there’s a bigger problem that needs to be dealt with. Her son, David, has schizo-affective disorder, which has led to run-ins with officers. He was charged with felony assault for kicking a police officer who was called to his apartment in 2014 and in 2005 after grabbing a woman’s keys and screaming at her during a schizoaffective episode in a store in Peoria. He was hit with a stun gun six times by four different officers. It was after the Peoria incident, however, that Brncik began to think that the problem was not the police, or the suspects, but the “fragmented and antiquated” system in which officers interact with disabled people – interactions that can lead to deadly outcomes. “Our problem isn’t with the police,” said Brncik, who in 2009 formed David’s Hope, a nonprofit that works with police departments to reduce violent encounters between officers and people with mental disabilities. Such encounters are happening more often than previously thought, according to a March report by the Ruderman Family Foundation. It said disabled individuals “make up a third to half of all people killed by law enforcement officers.” That statistic does not shock Brncik. When “access to care is difficult, loved ones will call the police,” who may not know how to safely handle people with mental disabilities when they arrive on the scene, she said. Phoenix Police Officer Franklin Marino agrees that handling people with mental disabilities “is not a police matter.” “Those who are a danger to themselves and other people should be handled by mental health professionals,” said Marino, a 20-year veteran of the force who serves as secretary of the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association. Jay Ruderman, the president of the Ruderman Family Foundation, said in a phone interview that while the high number of disabled people involved in police shootings was surprising, “people with disabilities are the largest minority group … and are largely segregated.” “We see it as a civil rights issue,” Ruderman said. “We want the world to see the disabled community as deserving of basic rights.” The report found that because police rarely record whether a suspect has a
mental disability, it can make it more difficult to address the problem and get officers the training they need. For the past 14 years, area police departments have used a system known as Crisis Intervention Training to assist in “connecting the person in crisis to services in a more efficient way,” said Sgt. Jonathan Howard, a Phoenix Police Department spokesman. Developed in Memphis, Tennessee, CIT aims to “enhance communication, identify mental health resources for assisting people in crisis and ensure that officers get the training and support that they need,” according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Howard said CIT helps all sides by “streamlining … the response to calls that involve the mentally ill.” While the specially trained officers put their CIT lessons to use, the responding officers can “be relieved back to regular radio traffic.” But Brncik says CIT alone isn’t enough to protect people with mental disabilities, and “is only intended to train 20-25 percent of officers.” “You can request CIT-trained officers, but you’re going to get whoever’s closest,” Brncik said. Last August, the Phoenix Police Department formed a mental health squad aimed at improving “processes related to calls for service involving people with mental illness or in crisis.” Howard said in an email that the team currently has 10 officers and that their primary responsibility is to respond to emergency mental health calls. “However, they routinely assist with non-emergent orders, suicidal subjects, check welfares, etc., that patrol assesses to have a CIT element,” Howard’s email said. “They also provide follow-up to high-utilizers and high-profile type incidents involving the mentally ill.” Since its formation, the team has answered more than 750 calls, none of which has resulted in the use of deadly force, Howard said. Brncik said she respects and appreciates efforts made in recent years by police, but there’s still a lack of education about whom to call in mental health emergencies. “When someone goes into crisis, people don’t know what to do,” she said. “They (police) know that jail is not the best place for someone with a disability to be … but there will never be enough teams for people to access them when they need help,” Brncik said.
VOTING >> From page 10
opposition from Phoenix businesswoman Merissa Hamilton and self-proclaimed Socialist and Cuban expatriate Axel Bello. Also running is Green Party candidate Gary Swing, who says he represents the “Boiling Frog Party” because frogs are becoming extinct. In the 9th Congressional District, which includes Ahwatukee, two Republicans are vying for a chance to take on unopposed incumbent Kyrsten Synema in November. They are Chandler engineering company founder Dave Giles and attorney John Agra of Phoenix. But that contest appears far tamer than the Republican Primary Battle Royale to replace Congressman Matt Salmon in neighboring District 5, which includes parts of Mesa, Gilbert and Chandler. State Senator Majority Leader Andy Biggs has been termed the leader in that race, but some polls are reporting that former GOP gubernatorial candidate and former Go Daddy executive Christine Jones is starting to gain on him. Also vying for the Republican nomination in that district are Mesa state Rep. and tax analyst Justin Olson and former Maricopa County Supervisor Don Stapley, also a
longtime Mesa resident. Duking it out for the Democratic nomination in District 5 are Tempe applied biologist Talia Fuentes and Scottsdale software engineer Kinsey Remaklus. Republicans also must make some decisions in a five-way contest for the November election to fill three of the five vacancies on the state Corporation Commission. Only two Democrats are running and have no primary election campaign worries. Republican contestants for the commission include former Chandler Mayor Boyd Dunn, the only East Valley candidate. The other four are state Insurance Commissioner and former state House Speaker Andy Tobin, Peoria businessman Robert Burns, former state Senator Al Melvin of Tucson and Sun City small businessman Rick Gray. The District 18 seat in the state Senate, which includes Ahwatukee and parts of Tempe, Mesa and Chandler, is the object of one of the Valley’s bigger GOP primary races. Incumbent GOP state Sen. Jeff Dial is opposed by Frank Schmuck, a decorated Gulf War veteran and professional airline pilot. Schmuck unsuccessfully ran in the 2008 GOP primary for a state House seat in the district. The two House GOP incumbents for LD 18, Jill Norgaard of Ahwatukee and Bob Robson of Chandler, are unopposed, as are
the Democratic candidates. They’ll face off in November. Norgaard and Robson are being challenged by Democrat Denise “Mitzi” Epstein and Green Party candidate Linda Macias. Sean Bowie is the Democratic candidate for State Senate. Also on the November ballot will be seats on the governing boards for Tempe Union High School and Kyrene School districts, which do not have primary elections.
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–Send your news about Ahwatukee to pmaryniak@ahwatukee.comorcall480-898-5647.
Arizona’s primary election Today: Early voting begins Aug. 19: Last day to request an early ballot Aug. 24: Last day to mail your ballot. Aug. 30: Election Day Information: recorder.maricopa.gov, 602-506-2348
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Community
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News, ideas and opinions on what’s important to Ahwatukee
By Coty Dolores Miranda AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
“Feed, Pray, Walk” may never become a catchy book or movie title, but it is what’s playing this summer at Ahwatukee’s Mountain Park Community Church. When the congregation realized its 18-year-old building at Pecos Road and 24th Street was scheduled for the wrecking ball because it was in the path of the Loop 202 South Mountain Freeway, members did what came naturally to them. They prayed. Those prayers led them to a new site at the southeast corner of 48th and Frye Road for a new $10.7-million facility. Though little more than a fledgling foundation and desert dirt is on the site right now, congregants are already taking steps — some literal — to become the area’s best neighbor. Each weekend, as part of their BUILD program, members participate in two “neighborly” projects: Friday morning’s Feed the Contractors and Saturday’s Prayer Walk. Overseeing the BUILD ministries are Ahwatukee pharmacist Jude Otero and his wife, Nikki. As serious summer heat hit in June, the Oteros organized what they thought would be a short-term Feed the Contractors program. It became so popular with church members, including young people, that it has been extended. Each Friday around 7:30 a.m., an individual or couple enters the on-site Redden Construction trailer, bearing food gifts for the workers. Sometimes, they bring a few dozen bakery donuts; other times it’s a bit fancier. Regardless, the food donations are always accompanied by personal thank-you notes from the donor. Several weeks ago, 10-year MPCC members Gene and Rita Puckett entered the office with trays of sausage, cheese and egg muffins, sweet cinnamon muffins, and fresh fruit skewers. “For me, both ‘Feed’ and ‘Pray’ are unique opportunities to put feet on my
passion for everyone to feel part of a larger family -- a Christ-centered community that cares,” said Rita Puckett. “It’s so simple. Here’s a muffin with a wordless message: ‘I care because God cares.’ I once heard that ‘small things done with great love can change the world.’ It’s a joy and the least I can do to contribute to the revolution underway at 48th and Frye,” Rita Puckett added. Another recent Feed was served by the MPCC Student Union – young people in grades 6-12 -- as part of their Serve 850 summer giving to the community. The number comprises the first three digits of the Phoenix ZIP codes. Student Union leader Kristie Moreland, a four-year Ahwatukee resident and U.S. Army veteran, said 16 area teens participated. “We shopped for snacks and a couple days later, packaged them in little paper bags, with each teen writing a personal thank-you,” said Moreland, a mother of two and a front office employee at Estrella Elementary School. “The kids said they were happy to be involved in helping get the church built.” MPCC’s Prayer Walk began at the property April 9, eight days before the official groundbreaking. At 7 a.m. Saturdays, Prayer Walk participants gather near the building site, led by Tami Fuller, wife of MPCC senior pastor Allan Fuller. “When we first got the property, we used to walk around the outline of the church, praying,” she said. “Sometimes we’d go into specific spaces like the children’s area and pray for what was going to be happening there. Now we can’t walk on the site due to construction, so we walk the neighborhood. “We’ve walked the loop up 48th street onto Chandler, the neighborhood around Milenio Elementary school, and also Pecos Park,” she added. Sometimes only three people show up to walk and pray with her; other times a dozen or more brave the summer heat. “Since the very first week, I’ve never been alone,” she said. “It’s been a learning thing for me because I’m very private
(Cheryl Haselhorst, AFN/Staff Photographer)
As new church is built, Mountain Park Community members feed and pray
Members of Mountain Park Community Church hold a prayer walk every Saturday near the site of their future church at the corner of 48th Street and Frye Road. Leading the way in the foreground are, from left, Tami Fuller, Chris O'Neill, and Marilyn Beck. Nikki Otero and Jude Otero join in the background.
about my prayers. But we pray out loud – it’s like talking. It’s kind of organic, it just flows. It’s however God leads us.” Why pray for area schools, neighborhood residences and businesses? “As the construction and dirt makes a negative impact on our neighbors, we want to have a positive impact,” said Fuller, mother of three: Gordon, 15, Martin, 13 and Lila, 10. “We’re trying to be a positive light to our new neighbors.” Pastor Fuller, who this month marks his 11th year at MPCC, explained the church’s goals in his quintessential laidback conversational style used even in his 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday sermons. “When a new family moves into the neighborhood, you want them to be good people. You want them to clean their yard, wave when they drive by, and take care of your dog if he escapes into the street,” said Fuller. “As we move into the southeast corner of 48th and Frye, we want to be good neighbors. We want to be a hangout for
parents whose kids are at Pecos Park; we want to provide usable space for the efforts of Horizon school; and we want to be a gathering space for others in the community. We very much want our new neighbors to be glad we’re there.” Their nearest neighbor to the north already has good things to say. “We’re thrilled to have Mountain Park Community Church as our new neighbor,” said Horizon Community Learning Center Executive Director Betsy Fera. “They’ve already been extremely helpful, working around our traffic flow and providing parking spaces for our community members. We look forward to a positive relationship in the future.” Once completed, MPCC’s new building will be 48,000 square feet and include a rooftop terrace and fullservice cafe. Their present church has 36,000 square feet. –More information: MountainPark.org.
ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 25
Parents and students ‘Meet the Teacher’ at Kyrene de la Estrella in Ahwatukee AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF PHOTOS BY CHERYL HASELHORST
Before classes begin in Kyrene School District, parents and children engage in a tradition called Meet the Teacher Night. Most district schools draw as much as 90 percent of their student body to the informal event. At Meet the Teacher Night, students get additional orientation as well. They meet vendors who provide after-school activities, purchase their cafeteria lunch cards, check out the classroom that will be a second home for the next nine months or so. Ahwatukee Foothills News Photographer Cheryl Haselhorst on July 27 visited Kyrene de la Estrella in Ahwatukee, where Principal Michael Lamp and his support staff and teachers met with scores of with scores of the school’s approximately 450 students and parents. The school year began Monday for both Kyrene and Tempe Union districts.
Ulysses Mendoza, 5, gets his kindergarten classroom assignment sheet as his parents, Angela and Erick look on. In the foreground, Angel Mendoza, 4, just waits.
Estrella Principal Michal Lamp shakes hands with incoming first grader Heather Carroll.
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New kindergartener Jack Loiacano, 5, describes to his dad, Leo Loiacano, how he is going to do his first-day-of-school homework assignment that he just received at Meet the Teacher.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
>> See MEET THE TEACHER on page 27
MEETTHETEACHER >> From page 26
Abby Hood, (left foreground) speaks with her new third grade teacher Cory Lamb as her mother Tiffany and sister Ava look on.
First grade teacher C. A. Hartung gives new student Cameron Anderson, 6, a big hug. (Cheryl Haselhorst, AFN/Staff Photographer) New kindergartener Jack Loiacano, 5, describes to his dad, Leo Loiacano, how he is going to do his first-day-of-school homework assignment that he just received at Meet the Teacher.
Heather Wick, left, helps her son Oliver, 3, create some craftwork in the school's new Reggio Emilia Early Learning Center.
Ben Whitmire, (back) from Chess Emporium, gives some chess hints to Cameron Mullen, (left) 8, 3rd grade, and Kannon Felder, (right) 8, 3rd grade, before the start of Kyrene de la Estrella's Meet the Teacher event. ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 27
CALENDAR TUESDAY, AUG. 9
Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St.
DQ reading push ending
Kindergarteners through eighth graders can collect a mini Blizzard for every five spoons stamped by a parent or guardian they earn by reading 20 minutes per spoon. Once the game board has been completed, it can then be traded in for a drawing for a family four fun pack for an Arizona Diamondbacks game Aug. 27. The drawing is Tuesday and winners will be notified by phone. DETAILS>> Pick up a game board at the Ahwatukee Dairy Queen, 4751 E. Warner Roa, by Sundayy.
TUESDAY, AUG. 23
Women Who Care to meet
The 100+ Women Who Care Valley of the Sun will hold their third quarter meeting. Guests are welcome to attend and see how this local philanthropic group of women contribute their time and energy to benefit charities. DETAILS>> 5:30-7:30 p.m., Four Points by Sheraton Phoenix South Mountain, 10831 S. 51st. St., Ahwatukee. Information: www.100WWCValleyOfTheSun.org.
SATURDAY, AUG. 27
Heart screens slated
The Anthony Bates Foundation will hold a heart screening for children and adults, age 10 and up. Tests include blood pressure check, electrocardiogram, and an ultrasound/echo read by cardiologists. Cost is a taxdeductible donation of $40. DETAILS>> 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Foothills Golf Club, 2201 E. Clubhouse Drive, Ahwatukee. Reservations: www. anthonybates.org or call 602-482-5606.
Arts school seeks tots
The Summer Arts Academy has introduced a Mini Academy and a Parent-Tot class. The Mini Academy is for 3 to 5 year olds on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays who can develop their bodies and brains with certified instructors. The Parent-Tot class invites children younger than 3 with a parent or guardian to develop mentally and physically through dance and the use of different props and instruments. DETAILS>> Through June 30. Days and times vary. $40$140. Register at the Desert Vista Front Office, 16440 S. 32nd St. Information: email summerartsacademydv@ gmail.com.
Families in Ahwatukee and the surrounding area can host foreign students through the Aspect Foundation. DETAILS>> Potential host families can choose their own student by viewing profiles on Aspect Foundation’s website at www.AspectFoundation.org. Information: Brynda Blowers at 480-444-6192.
Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce networking and leads group. Get involved and network. Open to chamber members and nonmembers. DETAILS>> 8 a.m. every Thursday, Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite 140. For information, call Shannon Kinsman at 480-7537676.
Hospice of the Valley offers a free ongoing grief support group for adults and is open to any adult who has experienced a loss through death. No registration required. DETAILS>> 6-7 p.m. first and third Wednesdays, Pecos Community Center, 17010 S. 48th St. Call 602-636-5390 or visit HOV.org.
Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce networking and leads group open to chamber members and nonmembers. DETAILS>> Noon every Monday, Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite 140, Ahwatukee. Call Shannon Kinsman at 480-753-7676.
Parents are invited to join a drop-in group to ask questions, share ideas or just listen to what’s going on with today’s teenagers. DETAILS>> 5:30-7 p.m. second Wednesday of each month. Maricopa Cooperative Extension, 4341 E. Broadway Road, Phoenix. Free. RSVP by phone at 602827-8200, ext. 348, or email rcarter@cals.arizona.edu.
Free child care for ages 0 to 5. DETAILS>> 9 a.m. second and fourth Thursday, Foothills Baptist Church, 15450 S. 21st St. Call Kim at 480759-2118, ext. 218.
Group aids MS sufferers
Get a donut with Democrats
Have a donut and check in on local Democrats' activities. DETAILS>> Free and open to the public 7:309 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Biscuits Restaurant, 4623 E. Elliot Road. RSVP by emailing marie9@q.com or 480-592-0052.
This chamber-exclusive Chapter of the International Toastmasters club boasts professional development skills. You will learn to become a competent communicator by expanding your speaking, listening and leadership skills. DETAILS>> 8-9 a.m. Fridays at the First American Title Conference Room, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite 100. For information, call 480-753-7676.
LD 18 Dems change site
SATURDAYS
Get into power networking
This group addresses the informational, emotional and social support needs of the MS community. People with MS, care partners and spouses are welcome. The group mobilizes people and resources to drive research for a cure and to address the challenges people affected by MS. DETAILS>> 10 a.m.-noon, third Monday of each month, Dignity Health Urgent Care Ahwatukee, conference room, 4545 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. Information: Lynn Grant at lgrant3567@yahoo.com or 480-414-7172.
TUESDAYS
Toastmasters sharpen skills
Improve your speaking skills and meet interesting people at Ahwatukee Toastmasters meetings DETAILS>> 6:45-8 a.m at the Dignity Health Community Room, 4545 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee.
Alzheimer’s support offered Foothills Women meet Families of Alzheimer's victims can find help.
An informal, relaxed social organization of about 90 women living in the Ahwatukee Foothills/Club West area. A way to escape once a month to have fun and
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Toastmasters teach skills
The Legislative District 18 Democrats have changed their monthly meeting to their new campaign office at 1867 E. Baseline Road, Tempe. DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m. social time, 7-8:30 p.m. meeting time on the second Monday of each month. Information: www.ld18democrats.org/meetings or ld18demsinfo@ gmail.com. Free and open to the public.
Bosom Buddies gather
THURSDAYS
Ahwatukee/Chandler nonprofit breast cancer support group is open to survivors and their families. DETAILS>> 10 a.m. to noon, second Saturday of every month. Morrison Boardroom next to Chandler Regional Medical Center, 1875 W. Frye Road, Chandler. Contact Patti Lynch at 480-893-8900 or tomklynch@msn.com or Cele Ludig at 480-330-4301.
Learn about 3D-Networkx
— Email calendar items to pmaryniak@ ahwatukees.com
This group focuses on creating powerful relationships with fellow members, resulting in meaningful referrals. Learn how to create connections and get the most out of networking events.
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Chamber has leads group
Find grief support here
WEDNESDAYS
DETAILS>> 10-11:30 a.m. Ahwatukee Alzheimer’s Support Group meets the first Saturday of the month at
DETAILS>> 8-9 a.m. Thursdays at the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite 140. For information, call Shannon Kinsman at 480-753-7676.
MONDAYS
ONGOING
Local host families sought
meet with other ladies in the area. Guest speaker or entertainment. DETAILS>> 7 p.m. on second Wednesday at Foothills Golf Club, 2201 E. Clubhouse Drive. Contact jstowe2@cox.net or visit www.FoothillsWomensClub.org.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
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480.227.3838
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF
If you are 7 to 18 years old, live in the Ahwatukee and like to sing, the Chandler Children’s Choir may have a spot for you. The nonprofit community choir is holding auditions Saturday for children and teens who want to be part of its ninth season. “If parents have young children who sing around the house or in the car all the time, choir is the best place for them,” said Aimee Stewart, the choir’s co-founder and artistic director. “They will learn how to use their voices to sing, learn stage presence, and get to perform in venues and concerts around the Valley.” “It’s amazing how much they learn in those first years of choir,” Stewart added. The choir also is seeking children who are 7-10 years old for its Junior Choir. The free 10-minute auditions are 12:302:30 p.m. at the Arizona Music Academy, 1700 E. Elliot Road, Tempe. No previous singing experience is necessary. “Auditioning for the CCC was a great experience,” said 13-year-old Ahwatukee resident Molly Harrison, a choir member and freshman at Mountain Pointe High School. “It gave me an opportunity to
highlight my singing ability and performance skills.” “After joining the choir, I have had a great opportunity to make new friends, perform in a lot of different venues, gain exposure, and most importantly, have fun,” she added. The choir’s mission statement stresses its educational focus: “The mission of the Chandler Children’s Choir is to promote highly artistic, quality music education to young people through creative programming and invigorating instruction.” More than 100 young people from the East Valley belong to the choir, Stewart said. Besides public performances, members also learn about vocal fundamentals, classic repertoire and varied performances. The program includes three choirs— Cantus, Encore and Junior—with weekly rehearsals on Thursdays at Desert Cross Lutheran Church in Tempe. Singers are offered a range of solo and ensemble opportunities, and also take part in a progressive tour program. The season runs from August through May. For information or to book an audition, contact 480-699-9846, ext. 2, or chandlerchildrenschoir.org.
(Chandler Children's Choir/Special to AFN)
Chandler Children’s Choir slates auditions, seeks members
Some of the singers in the Chandler Children's Choir include, from left: Jazmyne Grant, Michelle Hu, Dakota Terhaar, and Kathryn Murphy.
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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 29
Despite warnings, owners still endanger pets in hot cars By Srianthi Perera
This is what memory care is all about. It’s not to say that dementia isn’t an emotional and challenging disease. It’s just that when you see the human instead of the disease you don’t see sadness. You see life. You see history. You see achievements. You see family. You see love. And that’s how we see it at Hawthorn Court. We can help you with the challenges you’re facing. Please join us for a personal tour. Call 480.359.2898 to schedule.
When is it just too much and where do I go from here? Join us as Brian Browne with Banner Alzheimer’s Institute discusses how to recognize the signs of “burnout” when caring for a loved one with dementia and what options are available. Tuesday, August 9th • 6:00pm Please call 480.359.2898 to RSVP
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
Through the year and particularly in the summer, the Arizona Humane Society educates the public in a dozen different ways on how to protect their pets from hot weather. It never seems enough. Pets are still left inside hot cars, law enforcement is constantly called to release them and emergency medical attention is often needed to revive them. “Despite all the proactive measures we take, and all of the messages we put out there, every year we see this happen,” said Bretta Nelson, public relations manager at the Arizona Humane Society. “Sometimes we’re able to save the pet in time and other times the pets do pass away.” Often, it’s ignorance on the part of newcomers to the Valley, who move from cool climes and are not familiar with Arizona’s extreme summer heat. Sometimes, it’s just plain carelessness. “You never ever want to leave a pet in the car,” Nelson said. If it’s 100 degrees outdoors, the inside temperature of a car can reach 140 degrees in just minutes. Even a 75-degree day could turn deadly for a dog or a cat, she said. Chris West, the society’s field operations manager, answers about three to five calls per week in the summer about dogs trapped in cars or pets kept outdoors without adequate protection. “Animal owners basically need to treat their animals the same way they treat their kids,” he said. “If it’s too warm to have a child in the car, it’s certainly too warm to have a dog in the car.” West said that people sometimes leave water in the car and leave the windows cracked. However, in an hour or so, the water reaches the same temperature as the car’s interior. “The animals are not able to cool themselves by drinking that water,” he said. Malinda Malone of Ahwatukee Foothills has groomed pets for 18 years and now owns Diamond Cut Pet Spa on E. Warner Road, where she grooms about 100 dogs every week. With that many animal owners within her reach, Malone has an effective vehicle to educate the public, which she feels is “definitely necessary.” “A lot of pet owners just don’t know that the heat is dangerous for their animals. They think that because humans can be out for an extended period of time, their
Bretta Nelson of the Arizona Humane Society hugs Christy. “You never ever want to leave any pet in a car,” Nelson says.
(Will Powers/AFN Staff Photographer)
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER
dog can be also,” she said. “But, pets can’t because they don’t sweat like we do, they have a fur coat and they just can’t keep themselves cool enough during the summer.” Malone said it doesn’t have to be overly warm for disasters to happen. “If its 70 to 80 degrees, it’s hot for dogs that don’t have long enough snouts or muzzles to be able to cool themselves,” she said. “So it all depends on the types of animals.” At the Diamond Cut Pet Spa, Malone also provides cardiopulmonary resuscitation workshops for pet owners. The eight-hour classes utilize a hands-on approach where participants practice on stuffed animals, “until everybody’s really comfortable with the skills.” Cooling overheated pets is one of the topics discussed. “It has to be done slowly; otherwise, they can go into shock and die,” Malone said. West and his team also revive animals with rapid cooling methods. They spray their foot pads and the insides of their ears with a misted alcohol, administer a subcutaneous or intravenous coolant or place them inside an air-conditioned kennel. If all else fails, they transport the animal to the Second Chance Animal Trauma Hospital, a shelter-based trauma hospital in Phoenix for homeless pets, where more invasive cooling procedures are available. If you witness a pet in distress, contact Arizona Humane Society’s Emergency Field Dispatch at 602-997-7585 extension 2073.
By Srianthi Perera
The Arizona Humane Society wants you to call 911, notify the nearby business or its security personnel and stay with the vehicle until help arrives.
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER
Failure to provide a pet with adequate water, shelter and/or leaving a pet in a car on a hot day is a violation of Arizona Revised Statute 13-2910, which defines cruelty to animals. Most owners found guilty of leaing their animals in hot cars are prosecuted by the state for a Class 1 misdemeanor, with punishment of a fine up to $2,500. The maximum jail time for a Class 1 misdemeanor is six months. “Normally, it’s a fine but it can result in probation or jail time,” said Chris West, emergency animal medical technician at the Arizona Humane Society. “Jail time is very rare for an individual who leaves an animal in a car.” Should you break the window if you see a dog trapped inside a heated car? “Under the state statute, there’s nothing that says you can break a window,” West said. “But under certain municipal codes, an animal control officer or a law enforcement officer has the authority to break the window.” So what should you do when you see a dog in obvious discomfort inside a hot car?
Pet safety tips • Keep pets indoors. • Provide pets access to cool water at all times, whether indoors or out. • Never chain your pet; if they get tangled up, it will be difficult for them to access shade or water. • Do not exercise your pet during the sweltering afternoon heat (hot pavement will burn a dog’s paws). Walk your pet in the very early morning hours or very late in the evening. • Avoid long walks, hikes or excessive play. They will not know when to slow down and will not be able to ask for help. • Never leave your pet in a parked car; on a hot summer day, a car’s interior temperature can reach 200 degrees. If you see a pet in a hot car, call 911, notify the business/security and stay with the vehicle.
Warning signs:
– Arizona Humane Society
What to do • Call your veterinarian • Move your pet to a cool place • Place a cool, wet cloth on bellies, ears, paws and neck • Direct a fan to blow on your pet.
(Special to AFN)
Hot pets and the law
For pets that must stay outdoors: • Provide shelter that is ventilated with good air circulation in a shaded area. • Wading pools filled with water are excellent to keep your pets cool this summer season; be sure to keep the pool in a shaded area. • Pets that have very short, lighter colored hair are prone to sunburn. A sunscreen safe for babies works well. • Provide clean, cool drinking water in a non-metal, spill-proof container that is large enough for the specific pet; in-ground swimming pools are not adequate water sources and contain harmful chemicals.
Heat exhaustion in dogs • Red gums and tongue • Loud, rapid panting • Excessive/lack of drool • Rapid pulse • Excessive thirst • Vomiting/diarrhea • Glazed eyes • Elevated temperature • Weakness, collapse • Seizures • Unconsciousness • Body temperature over 103 degrees
What not to do • Do not force water • Do not leave pet alone • To avoid shock, do not use cold water or submerge pet in cold bath. – Arizona Humane Society
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 33
Kyrene School District has plenty of job openings, not enough applicants By Paul Maryniak AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS EDITOR
Classes may be full now that the new school year has begun, but scores of Kyrene School District jobs are still waiting to be filled. Exactly how many is hard to tell because this is the busiest time of the year for the three or four human resources people charged with filling those vacancies; they don’t have time to update the page on the district’s website that lists job openings, said district spokeswoman Nancy Dudenhoefer. And because the hiring process is so long and complicated by various state requirements, human resources often post jobs that people are planning to leave but haven’t left yet. “Over the course of this past summer our Human Resources Department has processed thousands of applications for a variety of openings,” Dudenhoefer said. Just in the last few months, 170 new certified teaching positions were filled. Currently, the website shows 174 jobs available, ranging from crossing guard and bus driver to secretaries and school club leaders to a “director of school effectiveness.” But of that total, 40 are listed as teaching positions. When the new school year began Monday, “there was a teacher in every classroom,” Dudenhoefer said. Nevertheless, the district is trying to fill a number of positions that ensure schools run smoothly throughout the year. In all, the district employs more than 2,400 people. Of 17 different job categories showing vacancies on the website, nearly half involve so-called “school-based” positions, such as crossing guard, classroom and health assistants, and children’s aides who supervise lunch and playground times. Bus drivers also are in great demand – not just in Kyrene but throughout most of the Valley’s public school districts. Part of the problem in filling those jobs involves the calendar. “It is difficult to find applicants at this time of year because all districts are hiring,” said Dudenhoefer. The economy also may be playing a role. Dudenhoefer said, “During the recession, it was easier to fill spots.” Then there is the element of competition with other districts. Take bus drivers, a position that pays $14.49 an hour and includes paid training that’s provided on site. “We are in need of bus drivers,” Dudenhoefer said, adding, “It is difficult to find applicants at this time of year Page 34
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
because all districts are hiring.” Some jobs also are difficult to fill because they have a break in the middle of the day, such as crossing guards. Others call for special kinds of people because they involve helping children with special needs, who can have challenging physical limitations. Many jobs also require specific qualifications: Bus drivers must pass drug screen tests; secretaries must be able to type a certain number of words per minute; and, of course, many require specific academic backgrounds. Even the most qualified applicant faces a bureaucratic obstacle course. As Dudenhoefer explained: “The process (much of which is prescribed by law) begins with a review of resumes for qualifications. Then interviews and other skillsbased activities take place. Sometimes candidates are asked to more than one interview. “After a candidate is recommended, then the multi-faceted background checking process begins,” she continued. “This includes checking with all previous employers from the past five years, verifying certifications with the Arizona Department of Education and also doing a fingerprint clearance card authorization through the state. Since all districts in Arizona are checking at nearly the same times, this can sometimes take up to five weeks.” To top all that, every hiring, no matter what the position, requires approval by the district governing board, which meets every two weeks. Still, for someone looking for a job, even part-time, Kyrene schools may have the right kind of position. There are numerous openings for parttime club leaders and club leaders in training, part-time program specialists and full-time club leaders. Pay ranges in those jobs depend on experience and can go up to $11.50 an hour for club leader and start at $13.12 an hour for program specialist. Dudenhoefer said the best advice for anyone looking to get hired at the district is to apply at www.kyrene.org/ employment. “As an organization we are way past thinking in a ‘school-year’ mentality,” Dudenhoefer said. “The public may still think like that but, we are a 12-month operation with 25 locations. That’s a big undertaking. “ — Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills News on Facebook and AhwatukeeFN on Twitter.
Gilbert Deli gives the public good food and autistic workers a job By Mike Butler First-time customers of the new Not Your Typical Deli usually stop by because they want to support the cafe’s mission of employing young people with autism or developmental disabilities. They come back because they can’t resist the delectable NYT Meatball and other sandwiches, plus all the chopped salads. “I’ve been wanting to do something like this for a long time,” said Chef W, who owns NYT Deli with his wife, Chef Vanessa Luna, and Pam and Chuck DePalma, who take care of the business side. The DePalmas’ son, Daniel, 16, has autism and works at the Gilbert restaurant. Chef W said he roasts all the restaurant’s turkey and roast beef and cures the pastrami. The all-beef hot dogs and other specialty ingredients are provided by top local vendors. The seeds for NYT Deli were sown four years ago when Chef W met Renata Irving and her autistic son Sam at the Gilbert Farmer’s Market. Chef W was teaching traditional cooking classes at Arizona Commercial KItchens, a
(Will Powers/AFN Staff Photographer)
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER
Robert and Terri Anasagasti prepare to order from Skylar Callahan and Cordell Sherwood at “Not Your Typical Cafe” in Gilbert.
>> See DELI on page 36
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DELI >> From page 35
rentable co-working space he developed with his mother, Kathy Rieth, to help budding food truck entrepreneurs, caterers and others get their businesses off the ground. He wondered if Sam and others would be interested in taking cooking classes. Yes, definitely. Soon, Chef W found himself teaching cooking skills at the Gilbert campus of Pieceful Solutions Schools, the K-12 school founded in 2008 for children with autism spectrum disorders. The school also has campuses in Mesa and Chandler. At Pieceful Solutions, Chef W met Daniel and his parents. And in yet another twist of fate, the school was where he first met Vanessa, who owned a catering company at the time and regularly brought meals to the school. More recently, Chef W and his partners seized an opportunity to obtain a retail suite adjacent to Arizona Commercial Kitchens, which was transformed into NYT Deli’s cheery dining room. Pam DePalma said her family moved from Chicago to Arizona after Daniel was diagnosed with autism because of the Valley’s excellent schools and support services for autism spectrum disorders. Despite that, she added, it’s still very difficult for kids transitioning out of school to find jobs. The unemployment rate is nearly 90 percent, she said. Renata Irving said she asked one
restaurant’s owners about 10 years ago if they could give Sam a tryout doing something basic, such as filling salt and pepper shakers. “I just wanted to see if he could follow through with a task, but they said no,” Irving said. Sam Irving, now 27, is NYT Deli’s host/ dining room ambassador. Cordell Sherwood, 19, never heard a peep from 10 restaurants he applied to earlier this year. When Chef W and Vanessa called him to set up an interview, he posted an emotional video on YouTube thanking them just for the opportunity. He is a cashier, and his friends have a new nickname for him: Cor-deli. DePalma said she wants the restaurant to eventually offer three, 12-week training programs to prepare students for jobs in the culinary industry, not just NYT Deli. For that, she said, the team will seek grants and private donations at gofundme.com/ky3mwwvc. “We don’t focus on the diagnosis here,” said Chef W. “We focus on the person. I’ve never had a better opening team than I’ve had with these guys. To see the look of pride on their faces is pretty cool.” NYT Deli, at 3821 E Baseline Rd., J-140, is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. – Reach Mike Butler at 480-898-6581 or at mbutler@ahwatukee.com.
Opinion
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History is driving our focus on Ahwatukee’s Cornerstone Businesses By Paul Maryniak AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS EDITOR
Winston Churchill had understandably pessimistic reasons for saying, “Those who ignore history are doomed to repeat it.” But if he lived in Arizona, he might have tweaked that a bit and said something to the effect that those who ignore our state’s history lose out on a richness that is hard to find elsewhere. That may be why history consistently ranks high in surveys of newspaper readers in the Valley: Many people here appreciate Arizona’s historical richness. That interest probably results partly from the fact that so many people who live here are transplants and want to know more about one of the nation’s youngest states. But it also may result from the astonishingly fast pace of development here. Even if you’ve lived here only 10 or 20 years, you’ve probably at times felt dizzy by how quickly the landscape around you has changed. Many Ahwatukee residents no doubt feel the same way. If you don’t, read Ahwatukee resident Marty Gibson’s “Phoenix’s Ahwatukee Foothills” (arcadiapublishing.com) and you will. Today, the Ahwatukee Foothills News starts its own memory track for readers with a look at some of the oldest businesses in the community in a series we call Ahwatukee Cornerstone Companies. Just think about today’s featured business for a moment: When Karilyn and Leonard Branstetter started their Plaza Hardware store in 1981 on Elliot Road, everything south of that was just desert. They’ve moved to another Ahwatukee spot, and Ahwatukee has continued to move as well. That’s why we think it’s important to call your attention to some of the legacy businesses here that have made it unnecessary for Ahwatukee residents to travel very often, if at all, outside their community to find what they need. To start with, we want to focus on
businesses that have been here for at least 15 years, though I hope to eventually also spotlight some of those that have contributed for a decade or more. If you own a small business and have been around for at least 15 years, we want to hear about it. Please send me an email and tell us more. We’re not trying to pander to the business community. These businesses are part of Ahwatukee’s history. Down the road, we hope to introduce other features spotlighting other aspects of this community’s history because you’d be cheating yourself to ignore it. As another story in today’s business section notes, local businesses need the support of their residential neighbors. As that story explains, that’s why some
are joining the Pokeman Go craze (a fad I don’t understand and don’t want to). That need for support also explains why we have the Ahwatukee Chamber of Commerce. And that’s why the Ahwatukee Foothills News carries a section about local businesses. We give you news about them that you won’t find in big papers. I’m not going to ignore the fact that we at the AFN also need those businesses to pay our bills. But you’d be mistaken if you thought we cover the local business community as some subliminal way of reinforcing our advertising. We cover businesses regardless of whether they’re advertisers because they
are an integral part of this community’s fabric. That’s why I’ve been telling local business owners to let us know about news of their companies. It's genuine news to readers if they moved, won an award, expanded, developed a new product, or promoted someone. And if you’re a business owner and you don’t know if something is news or not, you have nothing to lose by emailing or calling to find out. I hope readers enjoy our look at Ahwatukee’s business community classics. We don’t want you to lose out on one part of this community’s historical richness. – Reach Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com
ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 37
LETTERS
The South Mountain Freeway is not a done deal and residents can help keep it that way By Pat Lawliss AFN GUEST WRITER
During the legal proceedings regarding the Loop 202 South Mountain Freeway, the judge imposed a deadline on herself of July 13 for having the ruling out. That deadline, however, has come and gone and, as of this writing, there is still no ruling. It is highly unlikely that the delay has anything to do with the judge’s decision. Our courts are busy and delays are common. Waiting is difficult, but if the ruling is not already out, we will get it sometime soon. Many residents have been rightly disturbed by the work that ADOT has been doing around Pecos Road. To them, it may seem that freeway construction has started. Technically, however, this work is call “pre-construction.” Rather than starting to move a lot of dirt to construct the freeway lanes, this pre-construction work is actually destruction. Contractors have destroyed homes
and made “roads” in the hillsides to do soil testing among other things. ADOT owns the land, so it is legal. The court has permitted ADOT to continue with pre-construction until the ruling is made. Everyone expects that the ruling will be appealed to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco. The appeals process will be much like the original process on the cases that were filed by Protecting Arizona’s Resources and Children (PARC) et al and the Gila River Indian Community (GRIC) against the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). The original process has taken over a year to be resolved from the time the PARC et al case was filed in May 2015. The appeal, which will be filed shortly after the ruling is out, is expected to take approximately the same length of time. If the ruling goes as we at PARC expect, ADOT will be required to stop all freeway work completely as a part of the court ruling. This stoppage includes the preconstruction work. If the unexpected
occurs, PARC will file for an immediate injunction to stop all freeway work until the appeals process is complete, and that injunction would likely be granted. Either way, all freeway work should come to a complete halt. After the ruling on the appeal comes out, likely sometime in 2017 or 2018, we fully expect that ADOT will be told that they must start over if they want to improve transportation in the southwest area of Phoenix. The point of the lawsuit has been that ADOT has not followed the law in planning the SMF – not to mention that the SMF would not improve traffic congestion. If ADOT decided to start over and then it actually followed the law, it would undoubtedly end up with a transportation solution that looks nothing like the SMF. In fact, it might well be something other than a freeway. So, a PARC et al win in court will put a permanent stop to the SMF. PARC et al are very well represented in court by Howard Shanker, who is a preeminent attorney in the area of
environmental law. ADOT, however, has been working very hard to give the appearance to residents that the freeway is a “done deal.” This has cost PARC, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, a good bit in funding for this lawsuit – as ADOT has intended. PARC asks residents to consider the importance of the appeals process in this case and help with its funding. Checks may be sent to PARC, PO Box 50455, Phoenix, AZ 85076-0455 and credit card donations may be made at protectAZchildren.org. Funding information is also available at the website. PARC extends a huge thank you to all residents who have provided and continue to provide support for this effort to stop the destruction of Ahwatukee and our beloved South Mountain, along with our country’s largest municipal park. Dr. Pat Lawlis is the president of Protect Arizona’s Resources and Children and has been a resident of Ahwatukee for 24 years.
LETTERS
Lanes a mess at 40th Street and Pecos Road Whoever designed the lane configuration at the intersection of Pecos Road and 40th Street clearly does not travel this way. Heading southbound on 40th Street, the great majority of the traffic turns left (east) or right (west). Very little traffic goes straight south. There are three lanes. Two lanes are for left turn ONLY. The right lane is for those going straight south or west. This prevents anyone going west from turning right on red if someone going straight south is blocking the right lane. It makes no sense to designate the right lane for those going straight south. The middle lane should be for those going straight south or east, and the right lane should be solely for those heading west so that they can turn right on red. Poor planning, ADOT! -Penni Montgomery Page 38
Charity League lauded for food packing
This past weekend, the Ahwatukee Foothills Chapter of the National Charity League, in partnership with Feed My Starving Children, packed nearly 1 million meals at the Phoenix Convention Center for distribution to hungry children worldwide. As a hunger-relief organization, we at the Association of Arizona Food Banks strongly applaud the work of the Ahwatukee Foothills Chapter of the National Charity League. In solidarity with their work, we want to highlight the issue of childhood hunger right here at home. In Arizona, 1 in 4 children go hungry. We have the third highest rate of childhood hunger in the nation, with 440,000 children in our state expected to face hunger this year. And despite its higher than average income, Ahwtaukee isn’t immune. In Legislative District 18 (Ahwatukee, Chandler, Tempe), 4,712 children live in poverty and nearly 5,000 households rely on nutritional assistance programs t! o get enough food to feed
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
their families. We know that hunger is unacceptable for any person, but it’s particularly devastating for growing children. When children go hungry, they can’t learn. And when they can’t learn, they fall behind—not just in school, but in life. This is wrong. We need to do better, both for hungry children around the world, but also for hungry children in our own community. To learn about what you can do to end hunger in our state, join our advocacy team by sending an email to oscar@azfoodbanks.org
(July 18) storm left 4-6 inches of mud on Lakeside Boulevard, making it almost impassable. Also like in 2014, the ABM crew was the “first responders,” clearing the mud from the roadway into one big pile so that traffic could move safely through the area. City of Phoenix crews were more responsive to this event, arriving late morning to haul the mud away and sweep up most of the remaining mud and dirt. Our thanks go out to the ABM maintenance folks and to the City of Phoenix for their prompt response. -John and Carolyn Johnson
-Angie Rodgers, president/CEO, Association of Arizona Food Banks
ABM, city rate thanks for clearing storm debris
We wanted to express our appreciation to the maintenance staff at the Ahwatukee Board of Management for their quick response to the storm last week. Like in September 2014, Monday’s
– Send your letters to pmaryniak@ahwatukee. com
Please recycle me.
Lakes resident/True Life exec explains farm proposal By Quentin Thornton AFN GUEST CONTRIBUTOR
A community is more than simply the geographic area filled with dwellings; it tells the story of the history of a neighborhood, the tight bond between its residents, and the belief that working together is the best path to face challenges. I’ve been proud to call the Ahwatukee Foothills my home for more than 20 years because I value our unique makeup and our commitment to nurturing a true sense of community. The True Life Companies, my employer, truly understands what community means and has focused on building bright, exciting communities throughout Arizona. After purchasing the property formerly known as the Lakes golf course, we have worked tirelessly to put together a vision that respects the history of the Ahwatukee Foothills while building a sustainable path to the future. It is with this commitment to nurturing a new community that we proudly present to you Ahwatukee Farms, our vision for the newest neighborhood in the
Ahwatukee Foothills. Anchored by the new campus for the Desert Garden Montessori School (DGM) and community-supported agriculture, Ahwatukee Farms will serve as a cornerstone for the future and become the new standard for community living in Arizona. Our community-supported agriculture is a nod to the farming history of the Ahwatukee Foothills, where a Farmer’s Market and café will bring people together to enjoy farm-to-table food and pursue a healthier lifestyle. Children at the new DGM campus will be able to put their hands in the soil as part of their curriculum and learn about farming in the field instead of from a classroom textbook. An extensive biking and trail system will serve as the pathway for residents and neighbors to visit sparkling lakes and explore the new community, leading to beautiful boulevards lined with thoughtfully crafted single-family homes. We believe in the vision of Ahwatukee Farms and are ready to earn your support, which is the first step in making this community a reality.
The future of the property has understandably been a topic of great discussion, which has driven us to create a vision that benefits all of the Ahwatukee Foothills. It is our intention to earn the support of the community through a transparent effort that promotes this vision and protects the integrity of the surrounding community. After many studies and discussions, we know that a golf course is no longer a viable answer for the property. If it were, a golf course management company would have already purchased the property. We cannot let past mistakes dictate the potential of its future. We will be asking the community to join this discussion. We hope they will share our vision and rally behind the community-supported agriculture component. From a practical perspective, this support will include asking residents to sign a consent form to amend the Ahwatukee Board of Management (ABM) CC&Rs so we can take the first step in building what could be the future of our property. We know this is a big step and one we
do not ask lightly. It is our commitment to protect open space, keep lakes for flood-control purposes, and only build single-family homes at a lower density than any surrounding neighborhood. In the coming weeks, there will be representatives in the ABM neighborhoods meeting with residents, sharing the exciting news, and asking for your signature to look forward to the future instead of being held up in the past. I am proud to live here and I am committed to preserving this unique community and what makes it special. We believe that Ahwatukee Farms is the right path forward for this community and for our future generations. Ahwatukee Foothills isn’t just a place on a map; it is a community that represents the best of Arizona. We must honor the past, but it is time to start a new chapter – one that will mean a sustainable future. We encourage you to visit our website, www.AhwatukeeFarms. com, to learn more about the vision, ask questions, and be a part of this dialogue. –Quentin Thornton is project manager/Arizona for True Life Companies.
ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 39
Democratic convention has memorable moments, Ahwatukee delegate says By M.Lisa Scinto
included U.S. senators, representatives and other prominent Washington Democrats. They spoke on a variety of topics, but Last week I had the honor of attending the most centered around the populist mood Democratic Convention and cultural tensions in the country as a delegate for Bernie that have given rise to the nomination and support of the Republican nominee Sanders. I come from a family of political activists. for president. After breakfast, there were caucuses I have memories of passing out flyers with my dad on cold November election that we could attend. I selected the disability, black and the Medicare days as a kindergartner in Michigan. Being elected a delegate was a dream caucuses. I missed the Medicare come true for me, as I joined 85 other Caucus because of I fell down the delegates went to the convention from escalator. I was in a wheelchair Arizona. Eight of us were from Legislative for the rest of the week and had District 18, which includes Ahwatukee great empathy for the Disability Caucus. and parts of Tempe, Chandler and Mesa. We were then bused to the Wells Fargo My roommate was an organizer of the Arena for the convention, which began at Clean Energy March held July 24. I 3 p.m. each day. On July 25 we did the joined her and about 1,000 other people state-by-state delegate count amid for a colorful march that originated at protests by some Sanders delegates who Philadelphia City Hall. Its purpose was to were unhappy about the nomination of increase awareness of environmental issues Hillary Clinton. The next day, Sanders called a meeting and promote the use of alternatives to fossil fuel. One of the signs that really struck me: of his delegates. He thanked them for their support and reminded them that ”There is no plan B for Planet Earth.” Each morning at 7 a.m. we were the revolution was not over. He then bused to the Pennsylvania Convention encouraged them to support and work Cente,r where we had breakfast with to elect Hillary Clinton, telling them that the Arizona delegates and collected our the alternative would be disastrous for credentials. Our breakfast speakers the country. AFN GUEST WRITER
August 6th, 2016 9-noon
Many of the “Bernie or Bust” delegates continued to be disruptive. The Hillary delegates used social media to coordinate chanting and drown them out. The Secret Service were not amused. I was really touched by this speech given by the Khan family, whose son was killed in action in the Middle East and the mothers of African-Americans who were slain during encounters with police. But for me, the most moving speech was the fiery sermon given by Rev. William Barber ll, who said: “Pay people what they deserve. Share your food with Marie Colangelo of Ahwatukee is surrounded by delegates as the hungry. Do this and then she waves during last week's Democratic National Convention in your nation shall be called a Philadelphia. repairer of the breach.” My entire convention experience The final speaker was Hillary Clinton, makes me want to encourage everyone and I believe she gave the best speech of to get involved in something that touches her life. your heart. The red, white and blue balloon drop, And, of course, remember to vote. the confetti, and the fireworks at the end of the convention were among the more – M. Lisa Scinto was an Ahwatukee delegate to the Democratic National Convention last week. memorable moments of my life.
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Business
Business, technology and personal finance
AHWATUKEE CORNERSTONE COMPANY
Plaza Hardware has served Ahwatukee for 35 years By Shelley Gillespie
About Plaza Hardware • Founded in Ahwatukee: 1981. • Located: 4025 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. • Information: 480-759-4425.
Long-time customer and airline pilot Scott Williamson, left, appreciates the service he gets from Plaza Hardware owners Leonard, center, and Karilyn Branstetter, right.
organ teacher in the 1960s and ‘70s. For a time, Karilyn served as church organist while Leonard was choir director at a Chandler church. One of the more recent changes is that their store has shrunk to 2,900 square feet – from 4,500 square feet – forcing them to discontinue carrying cement. But they still offer an array of products, such as silicone sealant in a squeeze applicator, heavy-duty contractor cleanup bags, screening materials, tools, wood finishing gel stains, lawn and garden supplies, ladders and plumbing goods. Hardware is not in as much demand today from independent stores like theirs, he said, because many handymen are taking care of the repairs that homeowners used to perform themselves. Some of the handymen tend to get their supplies from retail chains. Today the Branstetters employ only one pool repair service person and about six part-time store clerks. Their staff includes retirees with engineering, law enforcement and other skilled backgrounds. And, like Leonard and Karilyn, their employees like to keep busy. What hasn’t changed with time is the Branstetters‘ business philosophy: “Treat customers as I’d like to be treated,” Leonard said. “Make a profit, but treat the other guy so he can live with it.” Leonard confides that when they set pricing on expensive pool parts, they tend
to err on the side of the customer. “A lot of people are living on the edge of their incomes. A new pump is so expensive. I really feel for them,” he said. Customers tend to rave with delight about Plaza Hardware, both online and in person. Reviews on yelp.com give them 5-stars for service. On a recent day, a two-brother handymen team expressed their delight when they discovered Plaza Hardware’s extensive inventory. Several other customers said they have patronized Plaza Hardware for 20 or more years. Karilyn said one regular comes to visit most Saturdays and spends nearly two hours chatting with them. “One of the reasons I shop here is the
friendly people, plus it’s close by. I like to support local business,” said Sebastian Pereira, another long-time customer who is also a minister and an artist. Another customer said the Branstetters create an inviting atmosphere. “Ahwatukee grew up around them. They make everyone feel like family,” said airline pilot Scott Williamson. “I like the pet-friendly store. It’s like Americana, the way it used to be.” Life outside the hardware store for the Branstetters begins after 6 p.m. six days a week. On Saturday nights, they head to their cabin near Prescott. They finished the cabin interior themselves, of course. They love to travel and have especially fond memories of a small ship on which they traveled around Cape Cod and the nearby islands. They also particularly enjoyed a Vancouver-to-Banff train trip through the Canadian Rockies. Asked how they keep up their energy, Leonard credited his wife’s cooking: “She’s one of the best cooks you’ll ever see.” Karilyn modestly claims that she cooks meat and potatoes, implying it’s nothing special. But, except during family visits, she refuses to use a microwave except to store things. The couple hopes to soon have more time soon for travel. After 35 years, Leonard has decided they should retire. They are putting the hardware store up for sale to give them that longpostponed leisure time. “I only have about 10 good more years,” hypothesized Leonard.
(Special to AFN)
It was 1981 and Ahwatukee extended no farther south than Elliott Road. That’s when and where Karilyn and Leonard Branstetter started Plaza Hardware, a retail pool supply and hardware store. When they opened, the Branstetters were determined to make their store THE place to find nuts and bolts, tools and plumbing hardware, pool service and supplies, and anything else local do-ityour-self homeowners might need. Today, they’re at a different location in Ahwatukee, but they’re still catering to the same folks – for a little while longer, anyway. They are putting the store on the market and planning to retire. Even though he is 90 years old, Leonard Branstetter still has been going to work every day and cleans pools when he has the time. “I like to work. I’ve never minded it, and I’ve worked since I was 18,” he said. “Pools are a big business in Ahwatukee.” When they first opened Plaza Hardware, Leonard previously had built and remodeled pools in Scottsdale. He saw no reason to stop pool service with the new endeavor. So he and as many as four other employees drove to Scottsdale daily to continue to service those pools. Leonard estimates that he has installed 5,000 pool motors since 1981. He completes the pool work early in the day, before it gets hot. In the afternoons, the Branstetters are at their store, now located in Mountainside Plaza, their third location in Ahwatukee and the second in that strip mall. The Branstetters are Iowa transplants. Karilyn attended the University of Arizona starting in 1950, studying music education. Leonard arrived in Arizona in 1965 after running a family feed and grain business in Iowa. They married in 1968. Before launching Plaza Hardware with her husband, Karilyn was a piano and
(Shelley Gillespie/Special to AFN)
AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Leonard and Karilyn Branstetter shortly after opening their Ahwatukee hardware store 35 years ago. ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 41
Ahwatukee businesses join Pokemon Go craze to promote local shopping AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF
Three Ahwatukee businesses are identifying themselves as Pokemon Go stops as part of a statewide organization’s effort to promote local shopping. Local Arizona First has signed up: Pomegranate Café, 4025 E. Chandler Blvd.; Sonoran Hills Dental, 4909 E. Chandler Blvd.; and Uncle Bears Brewhouse, 4921 E. Ray Road. They are among a number of Valley business taking advantage of the mobile phone game, in which users go to businesses, parks and other real-life locations to hunt and capture digital
characters called Pokemon with their cell phones. “We noticed many of our local business coalition members creating promotions and events around Pokemon Go, but there was no comprehensive list of local businesses that are interacting with the game,” said Kimber Lanning, founder and director of Local First Arizona. “By modifying our online directory of nearly 3,000 local businesses, we have made it easy for users of the game to identify PokeStops inside and nearby local businesses.” She said the goal is to get Pokemon
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players to patronize the establishments since they are already hunting down the characters. “By spending money with local businesses,’ she said, “Pokemon Go users can help support local jobs and services and keep their communities unique and vibrant.” Lanning also is cautioning Pokemon players “to be considerate when hunting Pokémon in the game.” “If you’re going to be spending time at a local business and using their W-Fi and facilities, you should plan to at least spend a few dollars at that business,” she
said. Lanning’s group is a statewide nonprofit organization that promotes local businesses over chains, saying that more money spent by customers in local establishments stays in the community rather than go to corporate headquarters miles away. Local businesses that want to be listed on the Local Arizona First website as Pokemon stops should email thomas@ localfirstaz.com. The map of stops in Ahwatukee and neighboring municipalities is at localfirstaz.com.
Act today to avoid financial regrets By Joseph Ortiz AFN GUEST CONTRIBUTOR
“Regrets? I’ve had a few.” – Frank Sinatra. Frank Sinatra did things his way, but he was also familiar with remorse. He’s not alone, of course. We all deal with regrets – and financial ones are among the most troublesome. Here are the leading financial regrets, according to a recent survey by Bankrate.com:
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Not enough for education
Not saving enough for your children’s education may be perhaps the most difficult regret to address. After all, it’s not easy to save for your own retirement and simultaneously put money away for your children’s college educations. However, if you can afford to save for college, try to do so in as advantageous a manner as possible.
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Not saving early enough
No emergency expenses
You can’t plan for all expenses. Your furnace might die, your car may need a major repair, you may incur a sizable doctor’s bill – the list goes on and on. If you don’t have the money available to meet these costs, you might be forced to dip into your long-term investments. That’s why it’s important to maintain an emergency fund, containing three to six months’ worth of living expenses, in a liquid, low-risk account.
Too much credit card debt
If you don’t overuse your credit cards, they can be handy and helpful, in many ways. Try to keep a lid on your credit card debt, keeping in mind that your debt payments reduce the amount of money you have available to invest for your long-term goals, such as a comfortable retirement.
Lakewood
(Special to AFN)
Not saving enough for retirement early enough was the top regret expressed by survey respondents. Saving and investing early for retirement offers you two key benefits. First, the more time you give growth-oriented investments, the greater their growth potential. And second, by saving and investing for retirement early in your career, you will likely need to put away less money each year than you would if you waited until, say, your 40s or 50s. So, if you aren’t already doing so, contribute as much as you can afford to your IRA and your 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored plan. And increase your contributions every time your salary rises.
$499,900
Mountain Park Ranch
Buying too big a house
If you tie up too much money in mortgage payments, you will have less to contribute to your various retirement accounts. And while home equity certainly has some value, it generally does not provide you with the same liquidity – and probably not the same potential for growth and income – as an investment portfolio, that’s appropriate for your needs and risk tolerance. So, think carefully before purchasing that big house – you might be better served by scaling down your home ownership and ramping up your investments. You can’t avoid all the doubts and misgivings you’ll encounter at various stages of your life. But if you can reduce those regrets associated with your finances, you could well increase your satisfaction during your retirement years. Edward Jones Financial Advisor Joseph B. Ortiz, AAMS, CRPS, can be reached at 480-753-7664 or joseph.ortiz@edwardjones.com.
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Ahwatukee Foothills News online
Mountain Park Ranch
Gorgeous Ahwatukee Waterfront home! Welcoming gated courtyard, boasting 2 stories, 3 br/ 2.75 ba, 1 bed/ bath downstairs. Walk in and fall in love with vaulted ceilings, plantation shutters, 2-way fireplace and tile flooring throughout. Open kitchen equipped with black appliances, plenty of cabinets and island breakfast bar. The guest bed has an extra sitting room space and the guest bath has granite topped vanity sink. Master suite is spacious and the adjoining bath is luxurious with travertine tiles all around and double sinks. It also has its own private balcony with views of the east lake in Lakewood and South Mountain! Lake views from family room, formal dining room & kitchen!
$449,999 Wow! Come see this beautiful, fully remodeled home in Mountain Park Ranch! Over 3100 sq ft with 5 bd/3 full baths, pebble tech pool and 3 car garage sitting in Cul-DeSac with great mountain views. Upgraded kitchen cabinets, granite counters, SS appliances. 18" tile, plantation shutters & upgraded carpet. Huge living room & family room with fireplace. All bathrooms completely remodeled with new cabinets, granite and tile showers. Large master suite with deck overlooks mountains, large bath with spa like tub, tiled walk-in shower and huge closet. Check out the backyard sports court and pebble tech pool. 3 car garage with cabinets, water softener. Community pool, parks and tennis, amazing schools & great neighbors
$299,900 Fantastic two story home with impeccable landscape and refreshing blue pool! 4 bd/2.5 ba, 3 car garage, 2,308 sq. ft. Spacious floor plan. Stately fireplace in the family room has plenty of hearth side seating. Eat in kitchen features stainless steel appliances, custom cabinets, center island and tile counters. Huge master suite has plush carpeting, sitting area, walk in closet and relaxing spa like bath with garden tub, separate shower and dual sink vanity. Generous backyard has a covered patio, lush green grass and pool. Tons of community amenities just steps away. Close to great hiking trails. This home is an incredible find! See it today!
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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 43
By Howard Fischer CAPITOL MEDIA SERVICES
Two statewide business groups are trying to keep voters from deciding whether $12 an hour is too much for workers and $216 an hour is too little for hospital executives. Lawsuits filed in Maricopa County Superior Court contend both propositions are legally flawed. They want judges to rule that Secretary of State Michele Reagan cannot put either of them on the November ballot. The challenge to the wage proposition is being brought by the Arizona Restaurant Association, whose members pay workers less than what the new law would require. The Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry is taking the lead on behalf of its member hospitals to sideline the cap on hospital pay. This is the third bid this year by business interests to keep initiatives off the ballot. The chamber already is a plaintiff in a separate measure to sideline an initiative to legalize marijuana for recreational use. The potentially more sweeping of the measures would require all employers to pay their workers at least $12 an hour. A 2006 voter-approved initiative set the base at $6.75 an hour with requirements for annual inflation adjustments. The figure now stands at $8.05. The measure also would require employers to provide at least three days of paid personal leave, something not mandated in Arizona law. Supporters led by Living United for Change in Arizona submitted about 270,000 signatures, about 120,000 more than is legally required to put the issue on the ballot. A second measure would cap the salary of hospital executives at the annual salary paid the president of the United States – currently $450,000, including expenses. That measure was pushed by the Service Employees International Union, which
turned in more than 281,000 signatures. In the minimum wage case, attorney Roopali Desai raised questions about whether some of the people who were circulating petitions were legally unqualified. Desai also alleged other defects in the affidavits that circulators are required to sign. If Judge Joshua Rogers agrees, that would mean none of the signatures these individuals gathered could be counted, even if they came from registered voters who are qualified to sign petitions. And that, in turn, could leave the wage measure with fewer than the 150,642 valid signatures needed to put the issue on the November ballot. But Desai could have an uphill fight: Her lawsuit acknowledges that Reagan and her staff have not found the same defects she claims and have refused to remove the petition sheets from the count. Desai has a different legal theory for Judge Douglas Gerlach in her challenge to the hospital pay cap. She said that circulators were out gathering signatures before there was a properly formed campaign committee, something Desai said is a legal precursor to an initiative drive. That, she said, makes each one of those more than 281,000 signatures invalid. Chamber spokesman Garrick Taylor defended the moves to keep the measures off the ballot. “We think they’re both terrible ideas and job killers," he said. Killing either or both measures in court would be a lot cheaper than the millions of dollars it would take to convince voters to reject them. But Steve Chucri, president of the restaurant group, said he is not trying to undermine the constitutional right of voters to propose their own laws. He said, though, a ballot measure has to be done right.
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480.704.0701 Page 44
(Howie Fisher/Special to AFN)
Lawsuits challenge wage hike, hospital exec pay cap ballot measures
State Elections Director Eric Spencer in June hauled boxes of petitions from backers of a plan to raise the state minimum wage to $12 an hour by 2020.
“We think there’s a likelihood of fraud that took place in the gathering of those signatures,’’ he said, a contention that petition organizers will fight in court. Taylor said his organization’s focus has been on the hospital pay measure. “What you’d be doing is you’d putting up a big sign on Arizona’s health care sector that says we are not able to attract the best and brightest to practice here,’’ he said.
Market swings making you uneasy? Let’s talk. Joseph B. Ortiz, AAMS , CRPS ®
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
But the measure is crafted so it would not cap the pay of doctors and other health professionals. Instead, it would affect only administrators and managers. SEIU spokesman Steve Trossman said the state has an interest in capping administrative costs, with most hospitals set up as tax-exempt non-profit operations that get a majority of their funds through government programs like Medicare and Medicaid.
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Faith
Churches, events and spirituality
SPIRITUAL SIDE
In the wake of massacres: our brothers’ blood cries out By Rabbi Dean Shapiro AFN GUEST CONTRIBUTOR
I didn’t really cry until the press conference. There was something about the way the surgeons of Orlando Heath described the bombardment of bodies. It was at once so professional, using precise technical terminology, and at once so human, their eyes betraying the overwhelming horror they had witnessed. It finally brought the immensity of the Pulse massacre home to me. I pictured the pools of blood on the dance floor, and the blood smeared on the floors of the surgical bays. I imagined the floors of the classrooms in Sandy Hook and the church in Charleston, the Inland Regional Center of San Bernardino, the movie theatre in Aurora, the streets of Dallas and the many other locations where we’ve gunned each other down.
It seems our whole nation is drenched in blood. “Do not stand idly by the blood of your neighbor,” says Leviticus (19:16). It is that same Leviticus used by hate-mongers to denigrate us, forgetting the verse that follows: “You shall not hate your kinsfolk in your heart” (19:17). Many are rightfully horrified by the carnage, but blind to the connection between it and the homophobia, misogyny, and dislike for difference that they themselves inculcate. At the Orlando Health press conference, the doctors disclosed that they weren’t surprised by the first few gunshot victims. They were ready. As a trauma center in an American city, treating gunshot victims is a regular occurrence. That fact is as horrific as a massacre – even more so, because there are more homicides, suicides and injuries by gunfire daily across American than even a single, horrific massacre. The Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention reported 33,636 deaths by firearms in 2013, for an average of 91 each day. That doesn’t include injuries, only deaths. And it’s horrific that we’ve come to accept such a sorry state as immutable. Other Western nations do not live this way. The most logical, minuscule, gun laws seem lofty. We don’t demand that our elected officials protect our lives. In Arizona, we accept that our representatives in Congress take massive amounts of money from the NRA. So there’s blood on our hands, too. What’s more, the massacre at Pulse has been a wake-up call to heterosexual America. It did not, I think, understand fully just how vulnerable gays, lesbians, transgender and others feel in our society. What some claim is “special treatment” is, in fact, equal rights: the right not to be fired; the right to rent any apartment you can afford; the right to use the bathroom without harassment; the right not to be shouted at as you walk down the street;
the right to look where you want to look without fear of reprisal; the right to donate blood. Every gay, lesbian and transgender person knows these and other vulnerabilities, and knows that these rights are not yet secured. They are especially precious to women, people of color, the differently abled, transgender people and poor folk. Now, perhaps, the rest of America will understand that it is truly not always safe for us here. We human beings keep asking the same question, as if the answer were ever in doubt: “Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Genesis 4:9-10). Throughout the world, the same answer keeps coming: “Your brother’s blood cries out to Me from the ground.” – Rabbi Dean Shapiro is the spiritual leader of Temple Emanuel of Tempe. Contact him at rshapiro@emanueloftempe.org and visit his “Rabbi Dean Shapiro” page on Facebook.
CALENDAR
SATURDAY AUG. 20
DETAILS>> 10 a.m. Sundays and 7 p.m. Thursdays. 3015 E. Warner Road. Information: valorcc.com.
Pilgrim Lutheran Church and School is holding a “Minute to Win It” game and ice cream social. Players are given 60 seconds to complete each simple game, such as blowing up a balloon and knocking cups off the table; tossing toilet paper rolls into a hoop; knocking soda cans down with rubber bands; and building a pyramid with 36 plastic cups. Simple games will also be provided for preschoolers. DETAILS>> 4-5:30 p.m. at the school, 3257 E. University Drive, Mesa. Information: 480-830-1724, pilgrimmesa.com, office@pilgrimmesa.com.
HORIZON SEEKS YOUNG PEOPLE
GAMES AND ICE CREAM ON TAP
SUNDAY AUG. 21
CHABAD CENTER MARKS 3 YEARS
The Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life and the Chandler Jewish Preschool will celebrate their third anniversary with a barbecue. Parents and children can learn about programs and meet the staff. It will feature balloons, inflatables, and caricaturist and other activities. DETAILS>> 5-6:30 p.m., 875 N. McClintock Dr., Chandler. Free admission and food will be on sale. RSVP required: 480-855-4333 or www.chabadcenter.com.
SUNDAYS
VALOR CHRISTIAN OUTLINES MISSION
Valor Christian Church in Gilbert offers “great praise and worship and great messages for today’s living,” according to Pastor Thor Strandholt. “Our mission is evangelize, healing and discipleship through the word of God.”
STRUGGLING FIND SUPPORT
High school and middle school students meet to worship and do life together. DETAILS>> 5 p.m. at Horizon Presbyterian Church, 1401 E. Liberty Lane. 480-460-1480 or email joel@ horizonchurch.com.
Samuelson, Grossman chair of Jewish Philosophy at ASU and TBS member, teaches “Maimonides’ Guide of the Perplexed: What Jews Ought to Believe.” At 11:15 a.m., TBS member Isaac Levy teaches “Maimonides’ Mishneh Torah: How Jews Ought to Behave.” Readings in both Hebrew and English. DETAILS>> Community Room of the administration building at Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley, 3400 N. Dobson Road, Chandler. 480-897-3636.
BERIEVED CAN SHARE GRIEF
UNITY OFFERS A PATH
People suffering through a divorce or separation can find understanding and caring support to face these challenges. DETAILS>> 6:30-8 p.m., Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E Pecos Road, Room 117, Ahwatukee, 480-759-6200 or mountainpark.org
A support group designed to assist people through the grieving process. One-time book fee $15. DETAILS>> 2-4 p.m. at Arizona Community Church, 9325 S. Rural Road, Room G3, Tempe. 480-491-2210.
UNITY OFFERS INSPIRATION
Inspirational messages and music are offered, along with classes and special events. DETAILS>> 10 a.m. at Unity of Tempe, 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103. 480-792-1800 or unityoftempe.com.
KIDS CAN LEARN JEWISH LIFE
Children can learn and experience Jewish life. Chabad Hebrew School focuses on Jewish heritage, culture and holidays. DETAILS>> 9:30 a.m. to noon, for children ages 5-13 at Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler. 480-855-4333, info@ chabadcenter.com, or chabadcenter.com.
RABBINIC LIT COURSE OFFERED
Ongoing morning study of two classics of rabbinic literature by medieval philosopher Moses Maimonides (the “Rambam”). At 10 a.m., Prof. Norbert
Unity of Mesa says its Sunday service offers “a positive path for spiritual living” through “transformational lessons, empowering music and various spiritual practices with an open-minded and welcoming community.” DETAILS>> 9 a.m. Spiritual discussion group and meditation practices group. 10:15 a.m. service. 2700 E. Southern Ave., Mesa. Child care available at 9 a.m. Nursery for infants through kindergarten at 10:15 a.m. 480-892-2700, unityofmesa.org, joanne@ unityofmesa.org
MONDAYS
JOIN CHRIST-CENTERED YOGA
Flow 1-2 class (intermediate) is free and open to the community. DETAILS>> 6-7 p.m., Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road. Greg Battle at 480-7596200 or gbattle@moutainpark.org.
CLASS TARGETS THE GRIEVING
Classes for those grieving over death or divorce. DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m., Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 739 W. Erie St., Chandler. 480-963-4127.
Support group for those struggling with how to deal with a loss in life. DETAILS>> 7 p.m., 1825 S. Alma School Road, Room C201, Chandler. Pastor Larry Daily, 480-963-3997, ext. 141, larrydaily@chandlercc.org or chandlercc.org.
TUESDAYS
DIVORCED CAN FIND COMFORT
FINDING HEALING FOR PAIN
HOPE, an acronym for “Help Overcome Painful Experiences,” offers support for men and women who seek God’s grace and healing. DETAILS>> 6:30 to 8 p.m. Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road. mountainpark.org.
SENIORS ENJOY ‘TERRIFIC TUESDAYS’
The program is free and includes bagels and coffee and a different speaker or theme each week. Registration not needed. DETAILS>> 10:30 a.m. to noon, Barness Family East Valley Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. evjcc.org or 480-897-0588. >> See FAITH CALENDAR on page 46
ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 45
FAITH CALENDAR >> From page 45
study, prayer and fellowship. DETAILS>> 9:15 to 11:30 a.m. Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 3550 E. Knox Road, Ahwatukee. Loraine 480893-1160 or CoffeebreakMin@aol.com.
HOLY TRINITY HAS GRIEFSHARE
GET A ‘SPIRITUAL SHOWER’
DETAILS>> 2 and 6:30 p.m., 739 W. Erie St., Chandler. 480-963-4127.
READ BIBLE FOR PLEASURE
Bring a Bible, or Bibles are available at these free sessions. DETAILS>> 7 to 8 p.m., Chandler Seventh-day Adventist Church, 1188 W. Galveston St. Lori, 480-9173593.
WEDNESDAYS
DIVORCED CAN FIND COMFORT
CELEBRATE RECOVERY MEETS
Celebrate Recovery says it “brings your relationship with the Lord closer to your heart as it heals your hurts, habits and hang-ups.” Participants can discuss issues ranging from feeling left out to addictions. “Nothing is too small or too large.” DETAILS>> 5:30 p.m. at Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. mvlutheran.org/ celebraterecovery or email cr@alphamvlc.com.
WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY OFFERED
Living Word Ahwatukee women’s Bible study and fellowship that offers “a short, low-key time of praise and worship in music and message.” It’s also an opportunity to meet other Christian women in Ahwatukee. DETAILS>> 10 to 11:30 a.m., Living Word Ahwatukee, 14647 W. 50th St., Suite 165, Ahwatukee. Free child care.
TAKE A COFFEE BREAK
A release calls this “a 15-minute energetic tune up each week” and says the Twin Hearts Meditation “is like taking a spiritual shower: when your aura is clean, you experience a higher level of awareness. You see through things more clearly and good luck increases.” DETAILS>> 7-9 p.m. at Unity of Tempe, 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe. 480-792-1800 or unityoftempe.com.
Corpus Christi offers a coffee break with scripture
People suffering through a separation or divorce can find understanding and caring support to face these challenges and move forward. DETAILS>> 6:30-8:15 p.m. Arizona Community Church, 9325 S. Rural Road, Room G5, Tempe. Onetime book fee of $15. 480-491-2210. DivorceCare 4 Kids (DC4K) will also be offered in Room G7.
CHABAD HAS TORAH FOR TEENS
The Teens and Torah program offered by Chabad of the East Valley is for teens ages 13 to 17, and combines education and social interaction with videos followed by discussion, trips, games, community service projects and thought-provoking discussions. DETAILS>> 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 3855 W. Ray Road, Suite 6, Chandler. Shternie, 480-753-5366 or chabadcenter.com.
THURSDAYS
MAN CHURCH HELD IN CHANDLER
“Man Church offers coffee, donuts and straight talk
Serving AhwAtukee, MountAin PArk rAnch, LAkewood, the FoothiLLS And Surrounding AreAS
A welcoming community proclaiming the love of God and fostering a personal relationship with Jesus Christ through Scripture, Sacraments and Service.
Daily Mass | Mon-Sat • 8:15am Tuesday Mass | 6:00pm Saturday Mass | 4:00pm Sunday Mass
3550 E. Knox Rd., Phoenix AZ 85044
480.893.8770
www.corpuschristiphx.org
7:00, 8:30, 10:30am, 5:00pm
Page 46
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
for men in a language they understand in just 15 minutes. No women, no singing, no organ and no long sermons,” a release states. DETAILS>> Doors open 6 a.m., message at 6:30 a.m. 1595 S. Alma School Road, Chandler. Bob, 480-7268000 or cschandler.com/manchurch.
KIDS CAN FIND SUPPORT
Support group for children ages 6 to 12 coping with a separation or divorce in the family. One-time $10 fee includes snacks and workbook. DETAILS>> 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., 1825 S. Alma School Road, Room C202, Chandler. Pastor Larry Daily, 480-963-3997, ext. 141, larrydaily@chandlercc.org or chandlercc.org.
LEARN ABOUT MIRACLES
Experience a spiritual transformation with Michelle Lee, who will teach like-minded people and spark lively discussions and explore daily applications of miracles. DETAILS>> T7 p.m. at Unity of Tempe, 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103. 480-792-1800 or unityoftempe.com.
FRIDAYS
NEFESHSOUL HOLDS SERVICES
Congregation NefeshSoul holds Shabbat services the second Friday of every month on the campus of the Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation. DETAILS>> 6:15 p.m., 6400 W. Del Rio St., Chandler. Information: www.nefeshsoul.org.
TODDLERS CAN MARK SHABBAT
Celebrate Shabbat with a service, music, and a craft project designed for children up to 5 years old and their parents or other adult. DETAILS>> 9:30 a.m., Temple Emanuel, 5801 S. Rural Road. 480-838-1414 or emanueloftempe.org.
TOTS TAUGHT TORAH
Hosted by Chabad of the East Valley for children ages 2 to 5. Features hands-on activities about the Shabbat, songs, stories and crafts. Children will make and braid their own challah. DETAILS>> 10:15 to 11 a.m., members’ homes. 480785-5831.
TEMPLE EMMANUAL LISTS SERVICES
Traditional service followed by an Oneg Shabbat. DETAILS>> 7:30 p.m. second and fourth Fridays, 5801 S. Rural Road, Tempe. 480-838-1414 or emanueloftempe.org.
DINNER FOLLOWS SERVICE
The service is followed by a congregational dinner (by reservation only). Optional Israeli dancing after dinner. DETAILS>> 6 p.m. on third Friday of the month, 5801 S. Rural Road, Tempe. 480-838-1414 or emanueloftempe.org.
YOUNG FAMILIES HOLD SHABBAT
DETAILS>> Regular services at 6 p.m. except on the third Friday of each month, when a 6 p.m. Young Family Shabbat Service is held for children and adults of all ages. Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley, 3400 N. Dobson Road, Chandler. Shabbat Morning and Torah Service weekly at 9 a.m. 480-897-3636 or tbsev.org. or info@tbsev.org.
SERVICE INCLUDES KIDS
Designed for children up to 5 years old and their parents or other adult. Following the service is an Oneg Shabbat, a time for a snack and to meet other families with young children. DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m. second Fridays, Temple Emanuel, 5801 S. Rural Road. 480-838-1414 or emanueloftempe. org. Submit your releases to pmaryniak@ahwatukee.
Get Out
Make the most of your off time >> Find us online at GetOutAZ.com >> Follow us on Twitter @getoutaz >>Like us at facebook.com/getoutaz
Arizona’s top restaurant thrives
(Will Powers/AFN Staff Photographer)
Chef Ryan Swanson is determined to keep Kai’s stars and diamonds
Chef Ryan Swanson adds a drizzle to the melon soup, with Sous Chef Jack Hupp. Swanson holds court at Kai Restaurant at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa in Chandler.
By Shelley Ridenour AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER
An enormous pot simmers on an equally oversized professional gas range in the fastidious kitchen of the Kai restaurant. The pot is overfilled with whole fryers, uncut onions, huge sprigs of spices, full cloves of garlic and assorted root vegetables visible on top. Underneath, secretly submerged veggies and herbs contribute another layer of flavors to the brew. The scent is the signature of Chef Ryan Swanson’s domain at Kai Restaurant, inside the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa adjacent to Ahwatukee. “It will be a clear, beautiful, dark stock,” Swanson said. He makes at least one
gigantic pot of chicken broth each week to serve as the base for a wide variety of recipes—and to create the aroma he loves. “If I could figure out how to always make my house smell like that, I would,” he said. It’s that kind of attention to detail and ingredient creativity that helped Kai land top spots on multiple hospitality lists. Most notably, it’s the only Arizona restaurant to receive a 5-star award from Forbes Travel Guide. Likewise, it’s the lone 5-diamond restaurant in the state as ranked by AAA. Kai also holds the state’s top ranking in the Zagat Guide, ahead of such notable contenders as Vincent in Phoenix, Fleming’s in Scottsdale and Binkley’s in
Cave Creek. Those rankings are determined by both customer feedback and professional reviews. Tucked away a couple miles off Interstate 10, behind the Wild Horse Pass casino and shopping complex, Kai’s location in Chandler may not be the most obvious spot for the state’s top-rated luxury eatery. But there it is, surrounded by acres of open lands owned by the Gila River Indian Community, and far from the larger clusters of posh hotels and heralded high-end entertainment districts in Scottsdale or Paradise Valley.
A chef at work
No matter how much he appreciated the scent of the chicken stock, on this recent
5-star dining
What: Kai restaurant Where: Inside Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa, 5594 Wild Horse Pass Blvd. Hours: Open 5:30-9:30 p.m. Tuesdays - Saturdays (Closed until Aug. 11 for summer break) Contact: 602-385-5726, wildhorsepassresort.com/kai Dress code applies
day, it wasn’t top of mind for Swanson. Rather, he was prepping melons, shrimp, yogurt, goat’s milk with other ingredients for a summer soup. The dairy was strained and mixed with cucumber juice to make a glaze for the bowl. Shaped pieces of lemondrop melon and watermelon were placed along the curved edge, accented with shrimp. Charred avocados added “smoke” to the dish. “This is a soup, but I like to make it beautiful,” Swanson said. “I like the idea of mixing the soup with other ingredients.” Swanson deftly moved about his kitchen, often with Sous Chef Jack Hupp close by. The two men have worked in the kitchen at Kai together for years, and they share the space efficiently as well as artfully. The kitchen is well equipped, and that’s critical to Swanson. “Having the tools to succeed is important,” he said.
Credits staff
The chef shrugs off compliments, crediting the staff, the tools and the restaurant’s managers and owners for letting him create works of art that foodies can eat. He allows Hupp and each of the five other staff chefs to develop individual styles. It’s important, he says, that everyone work in the kitchen “like it’s their own restaurant.” A plus of working at Kai, which is part of the East Valley resort owned by the Gila River Indian Community, are the countless opportunities to “work with the most unique ingredients,” Swanson said. The restaurant’s name appropriately means “seed” in the Pima language. He was preparing agave nectar for one >> See RESTAURANT on page 48
ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 47
RESTAURANT >> From page 47
of the crowning touches on a piece of ocean trout. He’d first seared the thick piece of fish and wrapped it in cedar. It bore a surprising resemblance to salmon. He tucked finger lime caviar between the cedar and the fish to add a bit of pop to the dish. “I’m a texture guy,” Swanson said. “I especially like to add it to my raw foods.” He finishes some dishes with cactus foam mixed with juice, to give the plate a crowning signature. On this day, he served the trout with
black sand rice that had been mixed with huitlacoche—a fungus delicacy that grows on corn.
Local Ingredients
He routinely purchases ingredients from Blue Sky Organic Farms in Litchfield Park and Ramona Farms in Sacaton. Ramona Farms specializes in Pima Indian food. Swanson has visited both sites to see first-hand what’s growing and to gather information to plan new menu items. He enjoys experimenting with native foods and speculates that “it’s only a matter of time before indigenous foods hit the stores.”
Swanson prefers Supai corn for making pasta. It’s not a traditional pasta ingredient, he said, so he created recipes via trial and error. He’s developing ideas of how to use mesquite honey in some of his recipes and keeps a honeycomb—a gift from a friend—in the kitchen to snack on. Some dishes he calls “a love letter to Ramona Farms,” featuring the corn and beans grown at the Sacaton farm “that you can’t get anywhere else.” Buying local helps ensure he gets the freshest and best ingredients into his kitchen, Swanson said. “I like to pressure myself to make something extraordinary from the ordinary,”
the chef said. “I’m always searching for new and unique things to offer.” Swanson encourages the adventurous to try Kai. “We want to welcome guests into our home,” he said. Sure, he acknowledges, diners can “spend a pretty penny here,” but much on the menu is affordable. And, he says, they get more than dinner at Kai. “It should be an educational experience. Our staff is here to make that journey effortless.” – Reach Shelley Ridenour at 480--898--6533 or at sridenour@ahwatukee.com. – Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills News on Facebook.
Chef cooks up life lessons into ‘nourishing’ career By Shelley Ridenour
A quick pan fry seals in the moisture of the ocean trout.
league hockey for about 16 years, beginning at age 4. But then he abandoned that quest to pursue his career in cuisine. Growing up in the shadow of South Mountain, Swanson always called Arizona home and today lives in Tempe. He works in neighboring Chandler, however, where he’s chef de cuisine at the only 5-star dining destination in Arizona—Kai Restaurant in the Sheraton
Pima Bear
Shake ingredients in shaker and pour into peppercorn- and salt-rimmed glass. Add a lime wheel garnish.
Old Fashioned
Muddle 3 or 4 orange slices 3 ounces Copper City Bourbon ¾ ounce agave nectar 3 or 4 dashes of AZ Bitters Lab “Figgy Pudding” Bitters
Stir and strain into glass with an ice sphere and flamed orange zest. Page 48
worked for a short time at a furniture store. But, he soon felt the calling to return to a restaurant and headed to the Sheraton Grand. Swanson is responsible for all the daily operations at Kai—developing and changing the menu as needed, determining seasonal offerings, handling special events, training and scheduling the staff, and ordering food. He is known for incorporating Native American ingredients into his dishes. The fresh, seasonal and local ingredients reflect the Pima and Maricopa peoples. Swanson says the environment within Kai is “nourishing,” and has been lifechanging for him. As the chef, his goal for his staff is to give them “the knowledge and skills to test themselves. I want to produce great chefs and have restaurants wanting to hire my staff.” – Contact Shelley Ridenour at 480-898- 6533 or sridenour@ahwatukee.com.
Melon Soup 2.0
Recipes from Kai 2 ounces Tres Amigos Anejo tequila 1 ounce St. Germain liqueur 1 ounce Pink Peppercorn simple syrup 1 ounce fresh lime juice
Grand at Wild Horse Pass. He honed his skills for six years at Kai, working up to serve as sous chef for a year before ascending to the position of chef a year ago. His 15 years in the luxury hospitality and culinary industry previously included a two-year stint as chef de partie at Ko’Sin Restaurant, also inside the Chandler hotel. He also helped open the Chef’s Club in Aspen, Colorado, named one of the 100 best restaurants in the U.S. by Time magazine. Swanson apprenticed under James Beard award-winning chef Vincent Guerithault, one of a few so honored the Southwest. Guerithault owns and operates Vincent on Camelback in Phoenix. Swanson then went to college after working with Guerithault at Vincent. He graduated from the Scottsdale Community College culinary arts program in 2006. After college and a few restaurant jobs, Swanson said he felt a bit burned out and
Duck fat and red peppercorn vinaigrette ½ cup red peppercorns, toasted and crushed 1 cup aged sherry vinegar ¼ cup brown butter solids 1 cup rendered duck fat Salt and sugar to taste
In a blender combine vinegar and brown butter solids. Blend on medium setting and slowly add rendered duck fat. When all fat is added, season with salt and sugar. Fold in the red peppercorn to finish.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
Makes 4 gallons 10 Charentais melons (orange melons) 2 lemondrop melons 1 liter water 2 medium onions 6 to 8 medium shallots 1 bottle Moscato 6 ounces Melon Vin Salt and pepper to taste 3 ounces juiced limes 5 cloves of garlic 5 Fresno chilies
Sweat mirepoix (roughly chopped vegetables) with 2/3 of melon mix, to bring out juice. Deglaze with Moscato, about ¾ bottle. Reserve the rest for final seasoning. Put rest of ingredients in blender and combine. Then pass through chinois. Season and chill.
(Will Powers/AFN Staff Photographer)
From an early age, Ryan Swanson spent his days in kitchens, mostly with his mother and grandmother. “My grandma was a great baker,” he said. “But she also cooked every meal, and I was in the kitchen with her constantly. I realized you never go hungry in the kitchen.” As a tyke, he was frequently beating on pots and pans; family members thought that he’d become either a drummer or a chef. The latter won out. Along the way, however, there was his dream of following in his father’s footsteps and playing professional hockey. Roger Swanson was drafted by both the Washington Capitals of the National Hockey League and the Phoenix Roadrunners of the World Hockey Association. He played for the Flin Flon Bombers, the Tucson Mavericks, Oklahoma City Blazers and San Francisco Shamrocks. Son Ryan Swanson, in turn, played
(Will Powers/AFN Staff Photographer)
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER
– Recipes courtesy of Kai Restaurant
CALENDAR
Weekend offers special events for birders, gamers and art fans By Justin Ferris AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER
Unravel art, sharpen skills
If you love arts and crafts, and want to take your abilities to the next level, check out Art Unraveled 2016. It offers more than 125 workshops during the day and evening. Sharpen your skills in painting, bookmaking, jewelry creation, knitting and much more.
Saturday. Cochise College Sierra Vista Campus, 901 Colombo Ave, Sierra Vista. Costs vary. http://www.swwings.org/
Sedona displays its restaurants
Sedona’s premier restaurants will provide a three-course, fixed price dinner. You can try some of the best cuisine in one of the most beautiful places on Earth for less than usual. That’s worth a threehour drive, or finally taking that vacation.
Piano Guys to perform
The popular piano/cello duo, The Piano Guys, rose to fame with their sometimes silly, often gorgeous, but always captivating YouTube videos that seamlessly combine classical music and popular music — like Bach and the Jackson 5.
a real Lego Master Builder. Then tackle the challenge of designing and building a load-bearing bridge using only Lego.
Details>> Noon-2 p.m., Saturday. Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe. Cost: Free. http://www. tempe.gov/
Go flea marketing at night
Details>> 9 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Now through Tuesday. Embassy Suites, 4415 E Paradise Village Pkwy. S, Phoenix. Tickets: $50 + individual workshops. http://www.artunraveled.com/
Details>> Times Vary, Thursday-Aug. 14. Locations vary. Tickets: $11-$44. http:// www.sedonadineandwine.com/
Wings fest taking off
Lovers of video games, listen up! Whether you want to buy games and consoles, play new and classic games, enjoy a free arcade, compete in cosplay or meet the voice actors behind Halo and other game legends, this is your event. Plus, there are table-top games as well.
Attend a festival that is literally for the birds. At the Southwest Wings’s 25th annual Birding and Nature Festival, you can explore Southern Arizona and take in the bounty of feathered wildlife on guided half-day, full-day, overnight or night-time owl-watching adventures. Plus, take in free bird seminars and presentations.
Video gamers gathering
Details>> 8 p.m., Friday. Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix. Tickets: $35-$170. 602-379-2800 http:// www.comericatheatre.com/
Artlink slates First Friday
Experience the spirit and culture of downtown Phoenix as local museums, galleries and other related venues, such as the Phoenix Art and the Heard museums, open their doors to showcase inspiring works and artistry. Vintage 45, 45 W Buchanan St., Phoenix. Tickets: $5. http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2584173
New movies this weekend
Details>> 6 p.m.-10p.m., Friday. Downtown Phoenix. Cost: Free. http:// artlinkphoenix.com/first-fridays/
Details>> Times Vary, Today through
Not your typical flea market, Phoenix Flea After Dark boasts a range of curated items, from vintage clothing and accessories to handcrafted art and more. More than 60 vendors will be attend, plus a DJ and food trucks will keep up your shopping energy. Details>>5 p.m.-10 p.m., Saturday. The
Details>> Times Vary, Friday-Sunday. Mesa Convention Center, 263 N Center St., Mesa. Tickets: $45 for weekend ($10-$25 individual days). http://gameonexpoaz.com/
Build a Lego bridge
Who said Lego was just for kids? At the STEAM Free Family Workshop, you — and your children, if you want to bring them — can get instruction from
“Suicide Squad” (PG-13) - A group of comic book’s baddest villains, including favorites Joker (Jared Leto) and Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie), are forced to team up to fight even worse evil. “Nine Lives” (PG) - A new twist on the “The Shaggy Dog,” a businessman (Kevin Spacey) finds himself turned into the family cat. Also stars Jennifer Garner and Christopher Walken. – Get more ideas for fun things to do in Ahwatukee - and beyond - at Phoenix.org.
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BEST MUSIC SCHOOL ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 49
BJ the Chicago Kid shares his love of Detroit’s Motown on ‘In My Mind’
BJ the Chicago Kid, born Bryan James Sledge, is from Chicago. He has worked with several prominent rappers.
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski GETOUT/AFN WRITER
LL RI
• AHWAT
UK EE
ER N & TAV G
Marvin Gaye inspired plenty of musicians, but BJ the Chicago Kid takes that influence and twists it into an art form that’s his.
“He’s is a huge inspiration to me,” the singer said. “The music he graced us with gave the world a little more beauty, and a lot more soul.” Recently, he performed as part of the John F. Kennedy Center for the
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singing and there isn’t anything challenging about that. I’m doing what I love.” The result of BJ the Chicago Kid’s love for Motown is “In My Mind,” which features collaborations with a variety of artists. In the last decade, he has worked with Dr. Dre, Kanye West, Schoolboy Q, Kendrick Lamar, Kehlani, Chance the Rapper and Ty Dollar $ign. BJ the Chicago Kid is bringing his music to Pub Rock in Scottsdale at 8:30 p.m. Saturday. “It’s going to be amazing,” he said. “We set it up to be amazing for you guys.” He plans on bringing a little Motown to his gig. “Motown always inspired me, from the moves they made to the connection they had with the people to the music they made. It’s always inspiring,” he said.
Performing Arts’ Spring Gala, “How Sweet It Is: A Tribute to Marvin Gaye.” Andra Day, Ledisi and Jussie Smollett of “Empire” also performed. “I was honored to be a part of that,” he said. “It wasn’t intimidating at all. I love
– Contact Christina Fuoco-Karasinski at 480898-5612 or christina@ahwatukee.com. – Check us out and like GetOutAZ on Facebook and follow GetOutAZ on Twitter.
IF YOU GO What: BJ the Chicago Kid When: 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6 Where: Pub Rock, 8005 E. Roosevelt St., Scottsdale Cost: $15-$20 Information: 480-945-4985, pubrocklive.com
Gammage begins single-ticket sales
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
Single-ticket sales began Monday for the first two offerings of the ASU Gammage 2016-2017 Broadway Season. Among the most iconic musicals of American theater, “Cabaret” opens the season at the Tempe venue Sept. 13-18, on national tour direct from its Tony Awardwinning Broadway run. Single tickets will also be available for the new production of “The Sound of Music,” coming Oct. 18-23.
Tickets, previously available only to season-ticket holders, will be for sale to the public at ticketmaster.com and asugammage.com Season subscriptions for 2016-2017 are also still available, with a seven-show package starting at $145 per person. Purchase of the package guarantees a place in line for the 2017-2018 Broadway season, which will include the Tempe engagement of “Hamilton.” – Check us out and like GetOutAZ on Facebook and follow GetOutAZ on Twitter.
Club baseball team schedules tryouts for boys 9-12 years old An Ahwatukee club baseball team is looking for players and has scheduled tryouts next week for interested boys. The Ahwatukee Rough Riders has openings in all positions for boys 9 through 12 years old. The tryouts are 6-8 p.m. Aug. 10 at Mountain Vista Park, Field #3, Ahwatukee. Players should arrive by 5:45 p.m., wear baseball clothing, and bring gear and water, said Coach Andre Morris. Players should wear baseball clothes and bring all gear and water. People too old for the team are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items to be donated to an area food bank. “Our boys are also using this opportunity to learn about community service and will be collecting food donations,” said Coach Andre Morris, adding that even boys who are trying out should bring three cans or boxes of food. No glass containers will be accepted. The team is preparing for the 2016-17 season in which players “will learn new drills to advance their baseball skills, preparing them to compete at the highest levels of competitive youth baseball,” Morris said.
They also will represent Ahwatukee in tournaments, he added. The Rough Riders were originally formed as an Ahwatukee Foothills Pony League All-Stars team. It eventually became a stand-alone club “under the excellent baseball leadership of Coach Tommy Zitzka and with the contributions of additional coaches and parents,” Morris said. Their 10-12-year-old team rosters have players from Pony, Little League, and other club teams from Ahwatukee, Phoenix, Chandler, Tempe, Gilbert, and Maricopa. “We are not your typical baseball club travel team,” Morris said. “Our practices and drills are specifically designed to produce exceptional young baseball players via skill development, strength building, and strategic training. “We also promote team chemistry and team-building in order to produce a group of smart players who trust in each other on the field, and also kids who have fun as friends off of the field,” he added. He said the coaching staff “teaches the kids about the history of baseball and helps them apply the lessons they learn in baseball to their personal lives.” also will represent the community of Ahwatukee in local, state, and regional
baseball tournaments. There is no charge to try out, however, the team encourages players to bring three or more cans or boxes (no glass) of non-perishable food items which will be donated to a local food bank. – Information: http:// azroughridersbaseball.com.
Dillon Canada, left, and Andrew Morris were part of the Ahwatukee Rough Riders team finished in second place in the “Whiskey Row Rumble” baseball tournament in Prescott last year.
(Special to AFN)
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF
ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 51
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
Sports Rec
ahwatukee.com
Ahwatukee Foothills News online
Banner year
Ahwatukee All-Star squad revels in state title celebration By Jason P. Skoda
The state championship game didn’t start off well. Cactus Foothills jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first inning on a homer before Ahwatukee battled back -- just like it did to win the district title over Chandler National North. Ahwatukee went ahead 4-3 by the fifth and then put it away in the sixth and final
Catcher Bryce Brassfield throws back a ball after a flawless performance.
inning with a five-run rally, including a three-home run by Ethan Swenson. “We stayed patient and stayed focused,” pitcher Teagan Kearney said. “It showed we wouldn’t give up.” This year’s squad doesn’t get an opportunity to play in a national regional of any kind. So they’ll just have to attempt to do it all
again next year at the next age level – Majors. That can lead to bigger games. “The majority of the team should be back next year and everyone wants to go make a run again,” Coach Kearney said. “The other teams will reload. This core finished second last year and then won it. I’m sure they’d like a chance to see what >> See ALL-STARS on page 54
(Steve Brown/Special to AFN)
The 11U Ahwatukee Little League All Stars celebrate their tournament championship.
(Steve Brown/Special to AFN)
First the team celebrated at Sunset Park by throwing their mitts in the air and dog piling in the center of the diamond. Then, they barely had their heads hit the pillow before sunrise. Party like an All-Star. For the Ahwatukee Little League state championship team that meant staying up to 3 a.m. at the team hotel after winning the 10-11 state championship in Wickenburg on July 27, topping Cactus Foothills South 9-3 at Sunset Park. “We were just having fun, messing around, eating and playing (the video game) ‘Just Dance,’” player Nick Morrow said. “We stayed up really late and didn’t want it to end.” The coaching staff and parents did their part as well after being together for six weeks. “It was a little hard reigning the players in after only having two days off in a month-and-half,” ALL manager Mike Kearney said. “They had their moment to take it all in.” And what a moment it was as the 2016 ALL 11Us – composed mostly of 11-yearold boys -- became the first Ahwatukee team at any age level to win a state title since the 2006 Dawgs went all the way to the Little League World Series by winning three straight tournaments (district, state, West regional).
(Steve Brown/Special to AFN)
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER
Ethan Swenson belts a 3-run homer to deep center at the top of the 6th inning to extend his team’s lead to 9-3. ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 53
they could do out of state.” Nine of the 13 players on the squad were state runners-up last year at the 9-10 minors age group. If they can keep the core together, another state title run seems to be in the offing. It was clear this team got over probably the biggest hurdles for an All-Star squad – accepting their roles. All the players are used to being stars on their teams during the regular season. Suddenly someone is on the bench and others are being pulled from the game in order to get the bench players some innings. “Our bench players performed better than our opposition’s top players,” the
Home-grown success
Mountain Pointe duo heading back to Olympics By Jason P. Skoda Ahwatukee Foothills News Writer
(Special to AFN)
One plays a team sport and the other relies on only himself during competition. Both Mountain Pointe High School graduates will be in Rio de Janeiro this week and will don the United States Olympic uniform yet again. They didn’t walk the halls down on Knox Road at the same time, but for the second time they will be entering an Olympic Stadium on Friday for the Opening Ceremonies. Reid Priddy, who plays men’s volleyball,
and track-and-field athlete Will Claye have become icons for the Pride, embodying what school officials hope all their students eventually become. “They were able identify what their strengths were early on,” former Mountain Pointe athletic director and current teacher Ian Moses said. “They were able to align themselves with individuals here and beyond to have done so much in their respective fields. “It is fun to sit back and think of them as part of the family,” he continued. “They are a part of who we are as a school, and
Mountain Pointe graduate Reid Priddy will become only the second United States men’s volleyball player to participate in four Olympics when the action begins in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Page 54
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
(Steve Brown/Special to AFN)
>> From page 53
elder Kearney said. “From Day One we practiced and played with and aggressive approach. They were selfless and accepting of their role until as we tried to figure out the puzzle pieces.” The pitching was strong throughout as the team won all six games in districts and all five state match-ups behind the arms of Jack Westley and Carson Bittner as each threw 17 innings and ERA of just over 3.00. The offense was rarely slowed, averaging 13 runs and two home runs a game, as the top five in the order – Kearney, Morrow, Bittner, Bryce Brassfield, Hudson Boucher – continually did damage and wreaked havoc with the opposition’s pitch count for their aces. The championship banner was still in the Kearney household on Sunday and will until the team party is organized and everyone can sign it before it eventually
Shortstop Xander Ras turns a double play.
finds its way to the Ahwatukee ballpark. “I walk by it all the time,” Teagan said. “I will always remember games we played and the guys. Hopefully we can keep (the team) together.”
part of you feels you are there with them.” Both athletes have dealt with some hurdles in order to represent their country this year. Priddy, 38, tore his ACL in his right leg during competition in 2014, and many believed it would end a terrific Olympic career. He took it as personal affront and eventually came all the way back in rehab to become just the second man in U.S. men’s volleyball to earn a fourth Olympic team bid, which begins play on Friday. “Not many people thought I would make it this far,” Priddy told reporters at the U.S. Training Center in California in June. “I’m learning that now. I didn’t know it at the time. “I think people weren’t really saying that to my face,” he added, “but now that I’m sort of back and doing my thing and playing the way I play, I’m finding more and more people that are shocked and surprised. That takes a toll after a while, just these little subtle negative messages, ‘Wow, you’re still going.’ “It doesn’t add motivation. I have all the motivation I need.” Claye makes his second appearance after winning the silver in the triple jump and bronze in the long jump in London in 2012. He struggled all year long to earn a qualifying distance in the long jump for 2016. But at the trials, there was too strong of a wind to be considered a good jump that could place him on the squad. It leaves him focusing on only the triple jump, his best event ever since graduating Mountain Pointe in December 2008 to begin his college career a semester early. Now that he has only one event when Olympic track begins, it means total commitment and focus on one thing. “The goal is gold this time around,” he
– Contact Jason Skoda at 480-898- 7915 or jskoda@ahwatukee.com. Follow him on Twitter @JasonPSkoda. – Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills News on Facebook and follow on Twitter @ AhwatukeeFN.
(Special to AFN)
ALL-STARS
Mountain Pointe graduate Will Claye returns to the Olympics for the second with his eye on his first gold after winning silver (triple jump) and bronze (long jump) in 2012.
said before the trials. “It’s the next step. I won’t settle for anything else.” Regardless of how they perform in Rio, their place in Mountain Pointe will remain as a standard barrier for those that follow. “They walked the same halls this group of freshmen starting their first year of high school this week,” Moses said. “Everyone can learn from their dedication to their craft, and what it takes to excel in their field from these two men.” – Contact Jason Skoda at 480-898- 7915 or jskoda@ahwatukee.com. Follow him on Twitter @JasonPSkoda. – Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills News on Facebook and follow on Twitter @ AhwatukeeFN.
Breakout football candidates are hard to pinpoint AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER
It happens every season. An unheralded player becomes a Friday night regular on his way to becoming a mainstay. Sometimes, these players become bona fide stars. Whether it was Queen Creek running back Chim Nga converting to running back from linebacker in 2010 to rush for more than 1,800 yards and 25 touchdowns or Mason Crossland’s rise to a recordbreaking quarterback for Higley after getting a chance because of an injury in 2014, stars can come from anywhere. Even last year players like Desert Ridge’s Jalen Harris (50 catches, 17 sacks) and Chandler’s T.J. Green (1,148 rushing yards) took advantage of a starting role or more playing time than expected because of injury, while Mountain Pointe’s Matthew Pola-Mao, a 300-pound nose tackle, made an impact as a freshman. These type of breakout players are not always easy to sniff out, but here is the Tribune’s idea of a few possibilities. James Stagg, Desert Vista, Defensive end This converted hockey player is a big-
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bodied athlete just finding his way in football. The 6-foot-4, 220-pound junior played in nine games last year and held his own, but might become a big-time force once the game becomes as second nature as a slapshot. “James is raw, but showed a lot of skill last year,” Thunder coach Dan Hinds said. “We think he can develop into a bigtime player.” He finished 2015 with 4.5 sacks, four quarterback hurries and two tackles for a loss. Stagg should be a perfect compliment to the other end, Myles Wilson, as the Thunder defense looks to harass the opposition’s offensive rhythm.
Noah Grover takes over behind center at Mountain Pointe.
Satchel Escalante, Hamilton, Safety Escalante got a taste of varsity last year with one interception, but there were so many outstanding contributors he didn’t stand out as much as he probably should have. That won’t be the case this year. He is expected to be one of the defensive leaders for the Huskies as they look to make a push to return to the state title game.
Noah Grover, Mountain Pointe, Quarterback Grover would be nowhere near this list if Arizona State didn’t fire its baseball coach. The Pride’s 2014 season came to an end in the semifinals with quarterback Jack Smith in street clothes. Smith moved to Arizona soon after his father, Tracy, was hired to take over the Sun Devil program. If that decision in Tempe never happened and Smith never enrolled at
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Mountain Pointe, Pride coach Norris Vaughan would have inserted Grover under center last year instead. “He was our guy,” Vaughan said in the spring. “Jack was special. We think Grover can play at high level, too.” It was clear why Vaughan had confidence in Grover during the 7-on-7 portion of the offseason. Grover took over the offense and led the Pride to success.
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BREAKOUT >> From page 55
It should translate into a very productive senior year with Mountain Pointe as the 6-foot-2, 190-pound dual threat has plenty of talent around him to help with the expectations.
Jason Harris, Desert Ridge, Wide receiver/defensive end The son of former NFL linebacker Sean Harris and the younger brother of Jalen, Jason is going to make an impact for the Jaguars. Jaguars coach Jeremy Hathcock is on record as saying he wasn’t sure when that will be, and maybe not even
this season. But we are going to expect the 6-foot6, 225-pound freshman to see the field this year as Desert Ridge attempts to make a return trip to the big-school championship game. Luke Musselman, Casteel, Linebacker The program is new so not many people have seen this school after it played a limited schedule last year. This will be a full-blown campaign this year, and this 6-1, 190-pound sophomore will be at the forefront of the program’s development the next three seasons.
Avery Carrington, Hamilton, wide receiver He is a bigger version of his brother, Devon, who ended up signing with Stanford as a defensive back. Hamilton has never been shy when it comes to playing underclassmen early in their careers if the talent calls for it. Carrington is a sophomore. If the Huskies’ downfield passing scheme from last year returns in 2016, expect Carrington to play a big part in the game plan. – Contact Jason Skoda at 480-898- 7915 or jskoda@ahwatukee.com. Follow him on Twitter @JasonPSkoda.
(AFN file photo)
Answers to puzzles and sudoku
Mountain Pointe wide receiver Ralph Roman (6) is tackled by Desert Vista linebacker James Stagg (84) during the Ahwatukee Bowl last year.
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Ahwatukee Foothills News
SWANSON, Robert E. "King of the Jingles" dies at 95. Robert Emil Swanson revolutionized American advertising, writing over 5000 customized jingles from 1952 to 1978. Besides being a composer and arranger, he played almost every instrument although he had had lessons only on the violin at age eight. Born in New York City on December 1, 1920, to immigrant parents (a Swedish father and a Sicilian mother) he was a gifted child and skipped two grades in grammar school. An exceptional athlete, his uncle, a professional boxer, taught him to box at an early age and he went on to box when he was in the military. While a student at NYU he was captain of the swim team and was a lifeguard at Jones Beach. In World War II he served as a high speed radio operator in the US Army Signal Corps; he was a survivor of the Battle of the Bulge and earned a Purple Heart. After college he had studied composing and arranging with the famous teacher Joseph Schillinger. Upon returning from the war, he traveled around the country with the Tex Beneke (Glenn Miller) Band, singing and arranging for the band's vocal group and sometimes playing the bass. Bob, as he was known, sang on many of his own jingles such as "Schaeffer is the one beer to have when you're having more than one", a Swanson original later sung by Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong and used by the late Mike Nichols in his 2008 production of "The Country Girl". He wrote iconic, classic jingles like "Um, um good, that was what Campbell soups are um, um good"; "Winston tastes good like a cigarette should"; "Don't wait to be told/you need Palmolive Gold" His "Northwest Orient --BONG---Airlines" won a Cleo award (the Oscar of advertising). A man of many talents, Bob was a prolific artist, a chef, a comedian, a devout Christian, a model ship builder, a yachtsman and a beloved friend to many. Bob died peacefully, July 17, 2016 at his home in Phoenix with his family by his side. His loving wife of twenty-five years, Connie Jo, survives him along with sons Gary Swanson, Jon Swanson and Karl Picking; daughter Kathryn Barnes; granddaughters Jensen DeWees, Cristina Swanson, Kensley Barnes and Renee Watkins; also, two great granddaughters Cosette and Nicolette Watkins. He was buried with military honors, July 25, 2016 at Veterans National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those who wish to do so donate to Companion Hospice whose staff provided the constant care and support necessary to enable the family to keep Bob at home until the end which was in accordance with his wishes. The hospice address is 1930 S. Alma School Road, Ste. D105, Mesa, AZ 85210. Sign the Guestbook at: www.EastValleyTribune.com
THE MAN WHO STOPS ADVERTISING TO SAVE MONEY IS THE MAN WHO STOPS THE CLOCK TO SAVE TIME. - UNKNOWN
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Drivers: LOCAL Nightly Box Truck Openings! Excellent Hourly Pay, Great Benefits! Class-A or B CDL w/hazmat Apply: www.goelc.com Estenson Logistics 1-855-221-4904
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Real Estate
For Sale Homes For Sale Ahwatukee Custom Estates 11832 S. Warpaint Dr. 4420 sqft, 1/2 acre 4 bed/3 bath, pool, sports court, outdoor bbq area, extended covered back & side patio, remodeled, $849,900 Lori E. Souza Real Estate Broker 602-432-3296
Homes For Sale Desert Foothills Home 275 E. Ashurst drive. 1907 sqft 3bed/2bath, office, $285,000 on a premium mountain-side lot. Lori E. Souza Real Estate Broker 602-432-3296
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Full-time Administrative Assistant Edward Jones is a financial services firm focused on meeting the needs of individual investors. Our branch office in Ahwatukee, AZ has an opening for a full-time administrative assistant. Excellent organization and communication skills, as well as the ability to work independently are required to perform administrative, marketing, and customer service responsibilities. Interest in the financial service industry is a plus. We offer competitive benefits and a comprehensive on-line training program. For prompt consideration, submit your resume online at www.edwardjones.com/careers. Include your salary requirements and job code on all correspondence.
Edward Jones
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1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway #219 • Tempe, AZ 85282 480.898.6465 • class@timespublications.com
David Carruth
15425 S 40th Pl., Ste 2 Phoenix, AZ 85044
480-706-5505
Job Code: 5786BR Equal Opportunity Employer
Pete Meier
Associate Broker, CRS, GRI
602-690-3361 Since 1973
Need More Houses to Sell!! Call Pete! Call us for a FREE Consultation
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D SOL $239,000 Outstanding Mountain Views! 3br 2.5ba 2cg patio home in Ahwatukee 55+ community newly transformed. Downstairs Master. Covered Patio & so much more!
D SOL
Very popular floor plan in Ahw. adult area. 2br 2 ba 2cg on Champ golf course. 1700sf w/ fireplace. $237,500
D SOL $425,000 Large 4br/3 ba/3 gar ‘’Pulte’’ some updates. Formal living, dining and a separate family room with fireplace. Near everything.
D SOL
LARGE 5BR/3BA/2GAR on cul-de-sac lot with pebble tec pool. Totally customized with vaults, granite $379,900
petemeier.com
Call for a FREE Home Value Analysis
ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 57
Real Estate
Carpet Cleaning
Roommates
Family owned and proudly serving Ahwatukee for over 20 years.
For Rent
50+ Female Roommate Wanted to share 3 bd, 2 ba home in Ahwatukee. 2rms & bath for you, share kit/family area. No smoking, no drugs. $750/mo. Evelyn (602)680-7086
Service Directory
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Contractors
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Contractors
Jack Rezac 602-332-3920 (patchmanjack)
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
- Derby Brown
Drywall
Electrical Services
C. READ & SON ELECTRIC, INC.
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Gary is Back Household Repairs
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Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor
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“One Call Does It All” Call Dave at 602-999-3672 LOCAL AHWATUKEE RESIDENT ROC#245469 Licensed/Bonded/Fully Insured We Accept ALL Major Credit Cards
Place Your Advertisement Here. Call 480-898-6465 to Advertise in the Service Directory. ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 59
Meetings/Events GARDEN CLUB, DESERT POINTE Garden Club Meets the 1st Monday of every month at 9:30am @ Ahwatukee Recreation Center NEW MEMBERS WELCOME 5001 E. Cheyenne Sept - May Only Call Pat Faust 480-588-6613
Meetings/Events GROWING TOGETHER: That's the motto of The Ahwatukee Community Garden Project. Get your hands dirty while learning about desert gardening. Join us every Sunday morning starting at 8 A.M. in the Garden at 4700 E Warner Rd. north of the Farmers' Market. acgarden.org
Home Improvement
ALL PHASE HOME IMPROVEMENT
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413-344-7170 602-526-7557
Meetings/Events
Meetings/Events
The Ahwatukee Republican Women's Club (ARW) General meetings are held on the 4th Tuesday of the month (unless otherwise noted) at the Four Points by Sheraton South Mountain, 10831 S 51st St Phoenix, 85044. Social Networking begins at 6:30 PM and the meeting (program) begins at 7:00 PM. Additional info contact: ARWomen@aol.com.
Are you affected by someone who is dealing with an addiction? If so, know that you are not alone and that the PAL (Parents of Addicted Loved Ones) group can help. The group is available to provide education and support to anyone 18 years or older who is dealing with a friend or family member with an addiction. The meeting are at held on the second and fourth Monday nights at 7pm at Mountain Park Community Church at Pecos Rd and 24th St. in room 117. The meetings are free of charge, completely confidential and could change your life! Please join us and get the tools you need to help yourself and your addicted loved one. For more info go to www.pal-group.org.
Visit our website at www.ahwatukee republican women.com
Alcoholics Anonymous
Big Book Step Study Mtg Every Tuesday 7:00pm. Closed meeting. Child care provided. Mtn View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St., Phoenix, 85044
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Landscape Maintenance Juan Hernandez
LEE'S SPRINKLER REPAIR 30 years experience Timers Valves Heads Leaks FREE ESTIMATES Ahwatukee Resident Call 480-282-7222
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Home Improvement
SERVICES INCLUDE:
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GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS & GAMANON for meeting information 602-266-97846
Not a licensed contractor
REMODELING, LLC
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ChampionBuiltContracting.com Page 60
Classifieds: 480-898-6465
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
• Pavers and Travertine • Retaining Walls • Synthetic Turf and SOD • Plants and Trees • Ramadas and Patio Covers
• BBQs and Fire Pits • Lighting (low voltage) • Irrgation Systems and Repairs • One-Time Clean-up • Maintenance
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Meetings/Events
Meetings/Events
Meetings/Events
Open your Heart and Home, Host an International Student!
Legislative District 18 Democrats
AHWATUKEE/CHANDLER Bosom Buddies. We meet the 2nd Saturday of the month, 10:00 AM-12:00 noon in the Conference Room at Dignity Health Urgent CareAhwatukee 4545 E. Chandler Blvd Phoenix, AZ Please contact Deb Sidman: 602.460.9893 or Devon Pollard: 602.318.8462 See more at: http://www.bosombuddies-az.org/ At Bosom Buddies of AZ we support women of all ages and in all stages of breast cancer.
Please contact Pascale Dunton 602-980-4388 west@iseusa.org west.iseusa.org
Monthly meetings are held on the second Monday of each month from 7-8:30 p For location and details, visit www.ld18 democrats.org/meetings. The public is welcome.
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Landscape Maintenance
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ROC# 256752
Democrats and Donuts This monthly gathering is held the third Wednesday of each month from 8 - 9:30 a.m. at Denny's, 7400 West Chandler Boulevard, Chandler. Sponsored by the Legislative District 18 Democrats, speakers cover current issues of interest. Meetings are free and open to the public, breakfast may be purchased. For more information, visit www.ld18democrats.org /meetings or email mariec9@q.com
Meetings/Events
Meetings/Events
GROWING TOGETHER:
AHWATUKEE AL-ANON family group invites you to meetings every Mon 7:15 PM at Corpus Christi Church on 3550 E Knox. Wed 8:00 PM at Community Center, 4700 Warner Rd., Fri "Women's only" 9:00 AM at Mountian View Luthern Church 11022 S 48th St., Sat "Men's stag" 12PM at Mountian View Luthern Church 11022 S 48th St. Rita 480-496-4535
That's the motto of The Ahwatukee Community Garden Project. Get your hands dirty while learning about desert gardening. Join us every Sunday morning starting at 8 A.M. in the Garden at 4700 E Warner Rd. north of the Farmers' Market. acgarden.org
Ahwatukee Foothills Friends and Neighbors (AFFAN) is a women's organization, dedicated to cultivating friendships, and goodwill. AFFAN promotes social, charitable and educational events all year long. AFFAN holds monthly luncheon meetings with varied speakers. We offer over 40 monthly activities including Book Clubs, Canasta, Bunco, Euchre, and Bridge. Other monthly activities are Dining Out, Stitch and Chat, Explore Arizona, and Garden Club. Significant others/ spouses can attend some events. For more info contact Teresa Akrish Phone: 480-518-5788, teresaakrish@gmail.com Check our website at affanwomensclub.com
Landscape Maintenance
RAMON LANDSCAPING SERVICES I could help you have your palm trees and other trees trimmed by giving you a reasonable and better price than the others.
Irrigation Repair & New Installation Maintenance Bi-Weekly • Monthly Yard Clean-ups • Storm Damage • Palm & Tree Trimming Tree Removal • Landscape Lighting Installation & Repair Landscape Design
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Classifieds 480-898-6465
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Interior, Exterior House Painting. Stucco Patching. Floor Tile Installation Quality work/Materials. Free Estimate Ignacio 480-961-5093 602-571-9015 ROC #189850 Bond/Ins'd
AHWATUKEE TEA PARTY
General Meeting Notice Quality Inn Hotel Desert Meeting Rm 5121 E. LaPuenta Ave 51st St./Elliot-Ahwatukee Meetings are held on the 3rd Thurdsday of each month. Doors open at 6:30p, meeting starts at 7pm. Public is invited! EMAIL: info@tukee teaparty.com
To learn more about us, view our photo gallery at: ShadeTreeLandscapes.com
Painting
East Valley PAINTERS
ROC 304267 • Licenced & Bonded
Interior/Exterior Painting 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Dunn Edwards Quality Paint Small Stucco/Drywall Repairs
Free Estimates • Senior Discounts
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RPL Decorators
Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131
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Complete Interior and Exterior House Painting
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Licensed - Bonded - Insured ROC 290242
Licensed Bonded Insured | ROC # 301084
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Painting
PROFESSIONAL PAINTING
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Smart Recovery Meeting Wed’s 7:00 -8:30 p.m. 6400 W. Del Rio Chandler Montessori School next to Unitarian Church room 5. All issues drugs, alcohol, gambling, online addictions, & medications. 480-5322460
Painting
homeimprovementclub.com
See What We’re Up To!
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(480)785-6323
ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 61
Meetings/Events Aegis Hospice Grief/Loss Support Group We meet 6 pm on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month. Legacy Funeral Home: 1722 N. Banning St. Mesa, Refreshments provided. Contact: Rick Wesley 480-219-4790 rick@ aegishospice.com
Meetings/Events
Meetings/Events
AMERICAN LEGION AHWATUKEE Post #64 We Meet Every rd Wed at 3pm at the Ahwatukee Retirement Center At 5001 E Cheyenne Dr, Phoenix, Az. 85044. Contact ROD GREEN Cmdr 480-234-0755
Dining For Women (DFW) diningforwomen.org inspires, educates and engages people to invest in programs that make a meaningful difference for women and girls living in extreme poverty. DFW helps women find dignity and strength, develop skills and opportunities, value and support their children's education. We have a local chapter in Ahwatukee which meets the 3rd Thursday every month from 6:30 p.m.-8:30p.m. If you'd like to know more on how you can transform lives and reduce poverty contact Mary Hake at marysullivanhake @gmail.com
Widowed-to-Widowed Grief Support Group every Monday at 6pm, Pyle Adult Recreation Center, Tempe (SW corner of Rural & Southern). Call Kay at 480.861.8031 for more information.
YOUR CLASSIFIED SOURCE
480.898.6465
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Plumbing
THE POOL GIRLS Free Estimates!
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Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC# 272001
JuanPavers Hernandez • Concrete Water Features • Sprinkler Repair
P O O L R E PA I R
480-720-3840
Expires 8/31/16 minutemanhomeservices.com ROC 242804, 257474, 290005
I CAN HELP! Call Juan at
Not a licensed contractor.
APS/SRP Certified Contractor BBB A+ • Licensed, bonded, and fully insured for your protection.
Ahw Resident • Owner Operated Maintenance & Repair Professional and Superior Service We maintain, repair and service all types of pools, equipment, filters, cleaning systems, fresh water and salt water systems
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Not a licensed contractor.
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See our Before’s and After’s on Facebook
Looking for more Garage Sales? Check out our online Marketplace at eastvalleytribune. com & ahwatukee.com
Call me, Howard:
24/7 Emergency Service
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www.barefootpoolman.com
480.231.9651
From Water Heaters to Toilets, Slab Leaks to Clogs!
FAST 60 Minute Service Available
602-546-POOL
10% OFF any total work performed
602-279-0942
$64* Drain Cleaning
Monthly Service & Repairs Available
23 Years Experience • Dependable & Reliable
• Water heaters • Leaks • Garbage disposal • Bathrooms
Bonded/Insured • ROC #223709
(480) 390-1212
Same Day Service Guaranteed 24/7
ANYTHING PLUMBING
FREE ESTIMATES • MANY REFERRALS ANYTHING PLUMBING • SAME DAY SERVICE
Call Today! Patti Cranson
Pebble cracking, Plaster peeling, Rebar showing, Pool Light out?
Free Service Call with Repairs
Water Heaters Installed - $469 Unclog Drains - $49.95
$25 OFF
Filter Cleaning!
Home Services
PLUMBING
Beat Any Price By 10% FREE R/O FILTERS!
Plumbing & Rooter Service
Pool Service / Repair
Plumbing
AHWATUKEE’S #1 PLUMBER Licensed • Bonded • Insured
704.5422
(480)
Meetings/Events? Get Free notices in the Classifieds! Submit to ecota@timespublications.com
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com
See MORE Ads Online! www.Ahwatukee.com
Roofing
Tiles, shingles, flat, repairs & new work Free Estimates • Ahwatukee Resident Over 30 yrs. Experience
480-706-1453
Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099
Family Owned/ Operated
Roofing
Pets/Services A FRIEND OF MINE
ROOFING CONTRACTOR with 32 years exp Specializing in all types repairs, re-roofs, coating & walking decks. Quality service & response our first priority. All work guaranteed. ROC# 100401-L42 ROC# 132572-C42
Member of ABM
VALLEYWIDE
• Reasonable Rates • Special Pricing on Extended Service
480.898.6465 phillipsroofing@msn.com
Licensed/Bonded/Insured Ahwatukee Resident
Honest Free Estimates References
ARE YOUR HOME AND FAMILY PROTECTED?
DENNIS PORTER
602-910-1485
Classifieds 480-898-6465
Pet and Home Services
WE’RE ALWAYS HERE TO SERVE YOUR CLASSIFIED NEEDS
Quality Leak Repairs & Re-Roofs
RANDY HALFHILL
Dog Grooming Supplies K9 force dryer $100, stand dryer $50, grooming table w/ arm $25, puppy pen $10, 3 VARI kennels $5-10-15. Dale: (480)893-8594
Voted one of the “Best of Ahwatukee” 9 Years Running!
Call Carl 480-895-3425 or 602-432-9183
CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM
480-460-7602 or 602-710-2263
Your in-home pet sitting and plant care service. For all your pet needs, domestic and exotics. Flat fee-no hidden costs. Serving Ahwatukee since 2003. Member of PSI. Bond/Ins'd. 602-617-0993 Please visit us at afriend ofminepetsitting.com
Call Eleanor Today!
480.287.4897
www.WhileYouAreAwayServices.com
Tile Roof Specialist
Phoenix’s Premier Tile and Foam Roofer. Spencer 4 HIRE ROOFING
10% OFF Valley Wide Service
With This Ad
New Roofs | Re-Roofs | Repairs | Tile | Foam | Shingles | Patios
Lic#ROC 152111 Bonded
Free Estimates • Credit Cards OK
The Most Detailed Roofer in the State
TK
®
Tim KLINE Roofing, LLC Roofs Done Right... The FIRST Time! 15-Year Workmanship Warranty on All Complete Roof Systems
timklineroofing.com FREE Estimate and written proposal
480-357-2463
R.O.C. #156979 K-42 Licensed / Bonded
Check out some of our jobs and reviews!
480-446-7663 (ROOF)
www.spencer4hireroofing.com ROC #244850 | INSURED | BONDED
Tree Services
U.S. ARBOR Tree Service
• Tree Trimming • Tree Removal • Stump Grind • Queen Palm & Citrus Treatment • Deep Root Fertilization
www.usarbor.com FREE ESTIMATES
480.812.0731 Lic #990148 • Insured
Your newspaper. Your community. Your planet. Please recycle me. ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 Page 63
$3,450
Up to $800 in Utility Rebates*
*Up to a $2,650 Brewer’s Dealer Rebate, up to $800 Utility Rebate, up to $500 Federal Tax Credit & up to $1,000 Trane Trade In Allowance .”The Home Projects® Visa® credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Financial National Bank, an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms for 60 months apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit at participating merchants. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. If you use the card for cash advances, the cash advance fee is 5.00% of the amount of the cash advance, but not less than $10.00. This information is accurate as of 01/06/2016 and is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921. Offer expires 12/31/2016.
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com