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COVER STORY

Lakes’ Ahwatukee Farms plan stirs questions, enthusiasm, anger

BIG GIVERS Local women deliver big bucks to charity. p22

By Lee Shappell AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS MANAGING EDITOR

PRIMARY DUEL

(Cheryl Haselhorst/Staff Photographer )

GOP state senatorial candidates face off. p35

Cathy Creno in her classroom as a first year spanish teacher at Altadena Midddle School.

BUSINESS CLASSIC Original Burrito Company is Ahwatukee landmark. p40 Neighborhood p3 Around AF p4 Community p15 Opinion p22

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Retired Ahwatukee journalist-turned-Spanish teacher: Can’t wait for the morning bell EDITOR’S NOTE: Retired longtime education reporter Cathryn Creno of Ahwatukee has become a teacher. The Ahwatukee Foothills News asked her to write about her first week in her new career. By Cathryn Creno AFN GUEST WRITER

I stood in front of 42 seventh graders with a red maraca in my hand and sweat trickling down my back. It was the first hour of my first day teaching

5005 E. RAY RD. 602-247-7550

Spanish at Kyrene Altadeña Middle School. My classroom at “Altadeña Middle Sweat” was way too warm and way too crowded. The Arizona Auditor General’s Office staffer who recently contended that the Kyrene School District has too much classroom space obviously did not drop by my program at Altadeña. We didn’t even have enough desks on the first day of school. I expected I would need to rattle the maraca at >> See AHWATUKEE JOURNALIST on page 4

Initial reaction to True Life Companies’ Ahwatukee Farms proposal on the former Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club site was strong last week, with likes and shares on the Ahwatukee Foothills News’ website and Facebook page taking the posts near-viral. As discussions continue, however, questions and concerns are surfacing as Ahwatukee residents digest the possibilities. True Life last week unveiled a plan to build an urban garden, farmers market and café, K-12 Montessori private school, trails, lakes and homes on the 101-acre parcel, a project the company says would bear some resemblance to the ground-breaking Agritopia in Gilbert. Phoenix District 6 City Councilman Sal DiCiccio, an Ahwatukee resident, is urging property owners governed by the Ahwatukee Board of Management not to sign consent forms that would allow True Life to change land use restrictions >> See AHWATUKEE FARMS on page 6

More Inside • Urban agriculture pioneer thinks Ahwatukee Farms could be more. p. 8 • A trip to Agritopia, Gilbert community that inspired Ahwatukee Farms. p. 10 • Lawsuit plaintiffs, others react to Ahwatukee Farms plan p. 36-37

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

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Ahwatukee novelist Tom Morrissey, left, is teaming up with action-film star Steven Seagal to make a book and movie about a recent Arizona scandal.

(Special to AFN)

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Many people know Ahwatukee resident Tom Morrissey through his activities on behalf of the Republican Party, which he has served off and on ever since he hawked flyers on Brooklyn street corners for the late Arizona Sen. Barry Goldwater’s 1964 presidential campaign. But Morrissey’s real job these days is writing novels and scripts. One of his projects involves a high-powered Hollywood star-producer. He’s teamed up with Steven Seagal to write a book and a screenplay on the infamous “gun-walking” scandal involving the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms that rocked Arizona about five years ago. The mission, dubbed “Operation Fast and Furious” by agents, involved purposely allowing licensed firearms dealers to sell weapons to illegal straw buyers in an effort to track the guns to Mexican drug cartel leaders and arrest them. Some of the guns eventually were involved in crimes, including the murder of a Border Patrol agent. The scandal is right up Morrissey’s and Seagal’s alleys. An avid fan of Donald Trump, Morrissey says he is fed up with the inefficiencies and waste that often seem synonymous with federal bureaucracies. And the pony-tailed, slickedhaired Seagal made his bones on the big screen portraying lawmen who often had to fight corrupt or inept cops and bureaucrats before taking down bad guys with a mix of highvolume shooting and lethal martial arts moves. Their project is tentatively called “Shadow Wolves” and its take on the ATF scandal is called “faction” in some circles, meaning it’s partly true and partly the product of the imagination. “We expect it will be very controversial due to the subject matter, which is based on today’s headlines,” Morrissey said. Morrissey acknowledged in an email to his friends that the project is “taking some time, but looking better and better with each rewrite. If it continues on its present path, the film will be shot in Arizona and New Mexico.” Morrissey and Seagal hatched the idea while they were working on a martial arts project. “As a retired deputy U.S. marshal, I have a perspective on the case,” Morrissey said. “Not many people know that Steven Seagal also has a law enforcement background. ATF >> See NEIGHBORHOOD on page 5

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>> From page 1

least a couple times during the first hour to get the attention of distracted students. But it turned out that was just one of many things I was wrong about as a brand new Altadeña teacher. I had anticipated I would have to convince them that Spanish was fun and interesting. Instead, I found myself in classrooms filled with students who were intensely focused. They asked questions about when the first homework assignment would be due and what the grading policy was. They were ready to go. Altadeña kids in general are motivated. I quickly learned that one thing you can do wrong in a Spanish classroom at the west Ahwatukee Foothills middle school is to not challenge them enough. Later on, I would find out what happens when a teacher does not plan enough work for these kids. Spanish is wildly popular at Altadeña. I teach six classes and have more than 80 seventh graders, more than 60 eighth graders and a little under 20 sixth graders. Anna Bailey, the school’s other Spanish teacher and one of my many Kyrene mentors this year, also teaches six classes but has 120 seventh graders in three sections. Fortunately, the extra desks we

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needed arrived by mid-week. On day one, I was stressed about learning all the students’ names. But I quickly learned that kids at the school of 1,100 are used to using name tags—at least during the first semester. As a former newspaper education writer, I was aware of the reputation of middle schools as tough places to teach. I had visited plenty of them as I researched articles about issues such as school discipline, AzMERIT scores and parent involvement. During the last couple years as a journalist, I became surprised at how much I enjoyed spending time with middle school students and their teachers. The kids were often funny, interesting, authentic and much more quotable than elementary or high school students. Many of the teachers viewed themselves as specialists in teaching young adults during the exhilarating, exhausting, heartbreaking, wonderful years of preand early adolescence. Last fall, when I became eligible for an early retirement buyout from the newspaper where I had worked for more than 30 years, I realized it was a chance to remake my life. I could do something I always wanted to try: Teach Spanish. Middle school Spanish. I haven’t looked back. People who learn about my quick career change ask how it was possible to go from

(Cheryl Haselhorst/Staff Photographer)

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program before my last job ended. I have a master’s degree in Spanish from Arizona State University, so I had solid credentials in the subject I wanted to teach. I spent two months taking Spanish immersion classes in Mexico so my language skills would be fresh. In January, I passed Arizona’s difficult, three-hour Spanish language exam for secondary Spanish teachers. By spring, I was applying for job openings in East Valley school districts. Kyrene hired me to be what the Arizona Department of Education calls a “teaching intern”—someone with skills and education in the subject they teach who is still taking college-level education courses. Arizona schools typically hire teaching interns for hard-to-fill jobs—those involving math, science, technology, special education and world languages. Of the 167 teachers Kyrene hired for this school year, four are interns. It’s surprising that a state with a strong Hispanic heritage like Arizona would have a shortage of Spanish teachers. Right now, there are at least 10 Spanish teacher openings in metro Phoenix, according to the state Education Department website. In May, I was thrilled

when now-retired Altadeña principal Nancy Corner called me for an interview and hired me a few weeks later. “I feel like I hit the mega-jackpot in coming to Kyrene,” new Kyrene Superintendent Jan Vesely told a room full of teachers during training I took before the start of classes. I felt the same way about my new job at Altadeña. The Kyrene district Spanish program attracts students because the program is challenging. My fellow teacher Anna Bailey, retired teacher Vicki Zingale and others throughout the district have created a curriculum that helps seventh and eighth graders master the equivalent of a year of ninth-grade Spanish. Most of Altadeña’s eighth grade Spanish students say they are in the program to test out of the Tempe Union High School District’s ninth grade Spanish. They earn an early high school credit in the process. Their challenging program drew me to Altadeña. I also dream of helping students see that Spanish is a language to love—not just a useful skill. My first-day jitters dissipated as I saw how serious the students are. During first hour, students who sat at a work table did not complain that there were not enough desks. They listened intently as I spent 15 minutes talking about the importance of doing nightly homework and keeping a log of completed assignments.

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A couple even wanted to know how quickly they would need to create their own vocabulary flash cards. Other concerns—like my hair springing out of control in the hot classroom, being exhausted without a 10 a.m. coffee break and getting lost on the Altadeña campus— also failed to materialize. Plus, after a few minutes in the classroom, I was having too much fun to care about such trivia. At day’s end, I was amazed by how quickly the time went by, how dry my throat was— and how silly a class of smart kids can get when they don’t have enough to do. Yes, lots of students knew way more Spanish than I anticipated and were ready for extra work. I quickly learned to roll out plan B—and to laugh along with the students. After the final bell, Anna Baily and science teacher Sean Viola, who has family in Peru and speaks fluent Spanish, dropped by to check on me. But I was too tired to chat with them— or with friends and family I had promised to tell about my first day. I posted a message on social media: “Day was great. Kids were great. Feet hurt. Sore throat. I can’t wait for the 8:30 a.m. bell tomorrow.” It was true. I couldn’t wait. – Cathryn Creno’s blog is The Classroom Scoop at classroom-scoop.net.

NEIGHBORHOOD >> From page 3

was left holding the bag on that boondoggle, but that is not quite the whole story.” And Seagal isn’t just lending his name to the dual project. “He is as deeply involved in the book as he is in the developing screenplay,” Morrissey said. Morrissey is reluctant to give a publication date for the book or a production timeline for the film. “As with most things of this nature, as we proceed we find that changes need to be made for one reason or another. Steven sees something in this project that makes him want it to be strong not only as adventure, but also populated by powerful characters,” he said. With four novels already under his belt, Morrissey has a few other irons in the fire. One book, which has a working title of “Brooklyn Candy Store,” is about “my parent’s candy store in Red Hook, Brooklyn, during the 1960s and ’70s,” he said. He also has another film project underway that he’s been working on for a while. “It’s a musical fantasy animation project based on a book and music I wrote some time ago,” he said. “The book is titled ‘Charlie Odd and the House Without a Door.’ Preproduction is complete, with a screenplay written by Hy Conrad, who was a co-producer and a writer of the TV series ‘Monk.’ Three of the songs in the score are sung by the late Richie Havens.”

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Page 5

and implement that plan. A change from golf-use only would require consent of 50 percent plus 1 of the roughly 5,200 property owners governed by ABM. True Life has begun to canvass neighborhoods with consent forms. “This is a bigger issue. It’s not just for the Lakes, but for all of Ahwatukee, because it will set a precedent,” DiCiccio said. Ahwatukee Country Club, for example, is zoned for high-density apartments. Club West Golf Course is for sale and could be developed, DiCiccio cautions. David Sabow, True Life’s Arizona managing director, said he has been “gratified” with the positive response to the plan. “The positive feedback we’ve received has been pleasantly surprising to the point where it reconfirms our feelings for what we were presenting to the community,” Sabow said. “We felt very strong about our planning. It’s rewarding that numerous people who live right there are saying, ‘It’s awesome. This is what the community needs.’”

Traffic, flood concerns Homeowners who paid lot premiums to be on a golf course, with its greenery, lakes and mountain views, successfully shot down an attempt by Pulte Homes to build a subdivision on the site two years ago. The concerns so far expressed by some community members – including the two women who are suing True Life to force the return of the golf course – involve various issues, including flood control, traffic, and housing density. Some residents also are wary of True Life’s intention to keep its promises. Eileen Breslin, a co-plaintiff in the lawsuit, said that roughly 300 more homes would generate too much traffic in the area of South 44th Street between Warner and Knox roads. She noted that streets fill with students from Mountain Pointe High School, which is two blocks away. Besides traffic created by the people who would live in the new houses, the Farms

Some residents arugue that the site should be restored to the way it was five years ago.

Page 6

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer)

>> From page 1

would add a new school during the week and a farmers market on the weekends. Sabow said True Life’s preliminary analysis of “current traffic infrastructure capacities” suggests that Knox Road is “underutilized.” He also stressed that a proposed roundabout in the center of Ahwatukee Farms would discourage motorists from passing through the community and instead go onto Knox Road. The other co-plaintiff, Linda Swain, focused much of her column in today’s Ahwatukee Foothills News on storm runoff. Sabow said last week that his company secured the services of a leading hydrology engineering firm that said the proposed development would sufficiently divert South Mountain runoff during downpours. “The Lakes and the Ahwatukee County Club golf courses were set aside to channel, retain, and detain storm water runoff,” she said. “True Life’s plan will replace turf, swales, trees, and five cascading lakes with asphalt, concrete and hardscape.” A hydrology report by HilgartWilson, LLC., on the Ahwatukee Farms’ website states: “While it is true that the system of lakes within the property helps reduce the amount of storm water passing through the golf course, there are several methods that can be employed to accomplish this same storm water management function while being fully compliant with local and regional design standards and criteria.” Some property owners are leery of True Life because Phoenix filed an ordinance violation against it last Aug. 28 for failing to properly secure the vacant clubhouse, and because it had not removed weeds and trash on the property. The clubhouse burned down in February in a fire ruled “suspicious.” Residents and DiCiccio criticized True Life for refusing to pay a $1.4 million propertytax penalty assessed last September that it essentially inherited from the previous owner, Wilson Gee. After Gee closed the golf course in May 2013, it was taxed at a higher rate as vacant land. Sabow said the company is contesting the city’s interpretation of the tax law governing golf courses. DiCiccio and other residents also raised questions about housing density if 300 homes

(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer)

AHWATUKEE FARMS

Signs line the mostly abandoned Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club’s freeways, viewed here from S. Shasta Court.

are built, given the company’s plan to include two lakes, a 30-foot setback on the project’s perimeter, and 10 acres devoted to a school and a farm. Some residents also complained that True Life has ignored them, although the company said it only has just started its outreach. Sabow stressed that the company’s outreach has only begun, and said some residents have already offered to help True Life gain the number of consents the company needs from homeowners to begin getting city approval of the plan.

Councilman, residents concerned DiCiccio says the concerns give him pause. “I’ve been telling people do not sign anything because you cannot trust a group that is not dealing in a trustworthy fashion,” DiCiccio said. “All they have to do is act in a trustworthy manner. Be nice. Be polite. “But you have an entity come in, purposely create an environmental hazard, do anything they can to devalue their property and everybody else’s property, and then play the savior. That is just being bad neighbors,” he added. DiCiccio said True Life had a history of repeated zoning violations. “They had to be forced to clean up their property,” he said. “I don’t think that’s a good neighbor. If you look at the clubhouse, they were repeatedly warned.” Breslin was more blunt: “Why would we trade 101 acres of open space for 30 acres sprinkled between houses squeezed on the landscape? Why would we trade five lakes already designed to control flood waters for only two without the same guarantees?” While True Life acknowledges that its urbanagriculture component was influenced by Agritopia, it could go further to replicate that Gilbert development, according to Ahwatukee resident Steve Barduson. Barduson would know. He was the lead designer of Agritopia, the Valley’s first major urban-ag master-planned community. “There seems to be two initial reactions: It’s a great start but we don’t trust the big, bad developer; and the other one is, ‘No, no no! It’s not a golf course,’” he said. “I want the community to look a little more deeply into it as we get more information instead of making

a snap decision. Let’s have engaged discussion instead of social-media tweets.”

Does golf still work? Barduson and DiCiccio believe that the Lakes property should remain a golf course, but both acknowledge that because of the price True Life paid, it is unlikely another golf ball ever will be hit there. “No, probably not, not at this stage of the game,” DiCiccio said. “They’ve just totally destroyed it.” The course and clubhouse would have to be rebuilt. Maintenance is a huge expense. The focus, according to Barduson, should shift to doing creative projects on the next version of Ahwatukee: infill and repurposing properties. “If it can’t be a golf course, let’s do it really, really well and not just do a poor project,” he said. “Ít would take creativity,” Barduson said. “It would take an Agritopia version of a golf course development to make it appealing enough to be sustainable and amenable to the Save the Lakes community, and I don’t think that’s possible with the price that’s out there.” True Life said it explored continuing golf and determined that it was not viable. Avid golfers and those whose livelihoods depend on golf dispute that the industry is in decline, but there is recent evidence to the contrary. Nike, one of the largest equipment and clothing manufacturers and a major sponsor of pro golfers Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, last week announced that it is getting out of the golf business. In the Valley, the Raven Golf Club is exploring cutting its course in half and developing nine holes. Last week, the Phoenician Resort revealed that it is looking at converting nine of its 27 holes into residential development.

Does plan need work? The former Ahwatukee Lakes is zoned for 1.1 homes per acre, To build even less than three homes per acre at Ahwatukee Farms, True Life must change not only the deed restrictions but also zoning, DiCiccio said. “So here’s an entity that has cost the City of Phoenix tens of thousands of dollars needlessly because it wouldn’t keep up its property, plus >> See AHWATUKEE FARMS on page 7

AHWATUKEE FARMS >> From page 6

our firefighters were placed at risk fighting a fire at a clubhouse that was not properly secured, and now it wants to triple the density for housing. But they’re not telling the public,” DiCiccio said. “That land is probably worth no more than a million or so. It’s an old golf course. They have to maximize their profits. I understand that, but I don’t have to agree to that,” he added. “I’m not going to let it happen,” the councilman said. “I have an obligation to protect not only the people who live around the Lakes but protect the entire community. They did this plan without transparency. Whatever occurs there, they have to work with the immediate surrounding neighborhood.” That’s where Barduson wants to offer support, drawing on his experience designing urban-ag projects, his affinity for Ahwatukee, and his skills as a theologian bringing entities together. Trust is the biggest component that True Life is going to need to be able to project, he said, and the community’s going to have to be able to receive the proposal with open minds. But some residents already have said they don’t trust True Life. “True Life will promise us amenities, just as others have before,” said resident Chuck Corbin. “But what will happen to the amenities? Will they go the way of the tennis courts and the

Lakes golf course when TL sells its last house?” Barduson said, “Ahwatukee Farms is a great start at a non-golf course use but the community must continue to press True Life to deliver the project as presented.” If the property is destined for development, Barduson would like to get in the ear of the designer. He said the owner should honor the homes backing up to the development with a larger greenbelt that is “more gracious” than 30 feet. Barduson also sees a need to do more to mitigate traffic. And he believes the plan must cater more to residents’ needs and desires. “You have home, you have work, and people desire to be able to gather in a third place,” Barduson said. “I think for this to be received better by the community it actually has to have a more spaces that are actually gathering places. More community that is not connected with the school, like a coffee shop.” “I’m still a golfer and I feel bad for the people that bought into it,” he added. “My words to the developer would be that it should still be golf course, and if that cannot happen, then I applaud their initial efforts. “Let’s have this first venue set the bar high for future people coming in,” he continued. “I’m not saying True Life won’t, but the community’s going to need to be able to see it.” But Breslin’s attitude suggests True Life faces a battle. “Three times already, residents have spoken clearly and mobilized,” she said. “We will do so again.”

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Page 7

Agritopia’s lead designer says Ahwatukee Farms should offer more amenities By Lee Shappell Although he played down its influence on his company’s design, a True Life Companies official acknowledged last week that the proposed Ahwatukee Farms may remind some people of Agritopia in Gilbert. David N. Sabow, managing director for True Life’s Arizona operations, said that while Ahwatukee Farms may bear some similarities to Agritopia, his company’s plan differs substantially from the Gilbert community. But the Ahwatukee resident who was Agritopia’s lead designer thinks True Life would win more support from residents if it modeled Ahwatukee Farms more closely after the Gilbert urban-agriculture development. Steve Barduson’s Agritopia concept was Arizona’s first major urban-agriculture master-planned community and is recognized as ground breaking 16 years later. Publications worldwide still hold it up as the model for other urban-ag communities as the development style continues to gain popularity. His initial thoughts when True Life rolled out the Farms plan last week? “In my own backyard? Really? In my own backyard they’re going to do this?” said Barduson, whose home of 23 years is less than a mile from the former golf course. “I was excited that somebody was willing to invest that much effort in Ahwatukee, but

(Special to AFN)

AFN MANAGING EDITOR

Agritopia lead designer Steve Bardson.

I have no idea how the community is going to receive it without golf (as a component).” Barduson, 55, earned his architectural degree from Arizona State and a master’s in theology from Dallas Theological Seminary. He left the seminary “on sabbatical” 22 years ago to return to architecture. Because of his connections, many of his designs have been for churches. They include both the old Mountain Park Community Church at 24th Street and Pecos Road – to be razed to make way for the South Mountain Freeway – and the new, replacement church, under construction at 48th Street and Frye Road. Barduson won the competition to design

what became Agritopia because owner Joe Johnston embraced his plan for getting people out of their back yards and onto their front porches in an effort to break down as many barriers as possible among neighbors. Integrating community-ag into the plan was essential. The area already was rich in farming and the Johnston family was among those heavily rooted in agriculture. Barduson hopes his background and skills might help Ahwatukee and True Life reach an accord on the next use of the former Lakes property. He said friends have reached out to him for guidance. “I do so much work trying to bring community consensus and developing community,” he said. “I want to be able to help as many of my friends as I can – and other people, as well – to make an informed judgment instead of rushing. Obviously, as a result of my connection with Agritopia, I’ve had a lot of people ask me about it.” Barduson surmises that the farther away people are from the project, the more they will like it. Those nearby – not so much. “There seem to be two initial reactions. First: ‘It’s a great start, but we don’t trust the big, bad developer.’ “The other reaction is, ‘No, no no! It’s not a golf course,’” he said. “I want the community to look a little more

deeply into it as we get more information, instead of making snap decisions. “Let’s have engaged discussion instead of relying on social-media tweets,” he adds. Barduson said he would prefer that the property remain a golf course. “If it can’t be a golf course, let’s do it really, really well and not just do a poor project,” he said. Barduson believes there still might be others with similar interest if the property were available, but for considerably less than what True Life paid, which was “at least three times the next-highest offer, from what I was told,” he said. Public records show that True Life paid $8.25 million for the Lakes course. “Ít would take creativity,” Barduson said. “It would take an Agritopia version of a golf course development to make it appealing enough to be sustainable and amenable to the Save the Lakes community, and I don’t think that’s possible with the price that was paid.” The community should, instead, probably focus on creative projects for the next version of Ahwatukee, Barduson added, saying that would be “infill and repurposing properties.” “My words to the developer would be that it should still be a golf course and, if that cannot happen, then I applaud their initial efforts,” Barduson said. “I’m still a golfer, and I feel bad for the people who bought into it.”

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Highlights of Farms plan This summary of main points in the Ahwatukee Farms plan also represents the changes that the True Life Companies, owner of Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club, says would be made to existing conditions, covenants and regulations (CC&Rs). The company wants homeowners to permit those changes and needs just over half of the approximate 5,200 owners to agree. •Community-supported agriculture and new Desert Garden Montessori school campus featured on 10 acres along the western side of South 44th Street between Warner and Knox roads. •Only commercial activity would be a farmer’s market and a café.

•Minimum of 30 percent of the 103-acre site would be dedicated to open space, including two lakes and a trail system. •No multi-family units/apartments on property. •Upscale single-level and two-story homes, less than an average three to the acre, that True Life says would create less density and help increase the value of surrounding homes. •Extensive civil-engineering report on hydrology and flood control. Frequently asked questions are available on True Life’s website, www.Ahwatukee Farms.com. –Source: True Life Companies

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Page 9

Agritopia founder sought to regain “village life” By Srianthi Perera In about 2000, Gilbert was beginning to fill tract after agricultural tract with cookie-cutter houses and the imminent Loop 202 freeway in the East Valley was signaling even more growth. Town visionary Joe Johnston eschewed the norm and instead set out to preserve land from his family’s homestead and create an ideal community. Johnston’s parents, Jim and Virginia, had farmed in the area near Ray and Higley roads since the 1950s. “The farm, as it stood, was not going to be something that made sense in the fabric of the suburban environment,” Johnston said. “We wanted to preserve agriculture and we also wanted to preserve every single building in the homestead area.” The result of his stewardship is Agritopia (agriculture+utopia), a 160-acre village urban farm with a population of 1,300 that has garnered attention from around the world. Agritopia wasn’t born overnight. For many years, Johnston conducted extensive research by reading, traveling to historical neighborhoods around the country and urban farms overseas, and observing the principles of the new urbanism movement that developed in the 1980s as a reaction to sprawl. The project features 450 homes, a senior independent-living community called Generations At Agritopia, farm, fruit orchards, community garden, parks and trails, school, church and commercial entities such as The Coffee Shop and Joe’s Farm Grill. To open later this year is Barnone, an old Quonset barn-turned-artisan workspace with a micro restaurant, brewery and other uses. Still to come is Epicenter, a mixeduse development with luxury apartment homes on the top floors and upscale retail spaces below.

(Special to AFN)

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER

Gilbert businessman Joe Johnston launched Agritopia more than a decade ago.

More than a decade after implementing his ideas, Johnston feels that although everything is “not perfect,” his primary goals have been met. One of the goals was helping to reduce the isolation that’s common in urban centers, where families with young children often tend to live away from senior housing. Agritopia’s village brings them together, which Johnston said was “very important.” “We have a huge range of housing sizes on the same street,” he said. “That allows people from different economic situations

Some Agritopia homes are clustered around green focal points.

Page 10

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

and different life situations to live on the same street.” Rather than continue with growing the traditional cotton and alfalfa that had reigned in the area for decades, the farm plants crops that can be consumed by the community. The produce is available for sale at their farmers markets and at the Farm Stand, which is a pay-as-you-go service based on the honor system. Foremost among the community’s strong appeals is the neighborhoods’ design: porch-fronted homes, low fences and

tree-lined streets that promote strolling rather than motoring, and the easy access to day-to-day needs -- all deliberate factors to promote relationships. The community garden, where individuals plant in small plots, allows people to get to know others with similar interests. “We wanted to make sure we broke down as many barriers between people as possible,” Johnston said. Agritopia has inspired countless urbanag communities around the world. True Life Companies, developer of the proposed Ahwatukee Farms on the site of the shuttered Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club, says it borrowed heavily from Agritopia in its proposal. Everything combines to create the flavor of a modern-day village, which is the most appealing factor in Agritopia, according to its founder. “Where you belong and you know people and you feel connected to community, where you can see older people and younger people and people walking and it’s just different than in normal American life,” Johnston said. “I think we’ve kind of lost it and we’ve had to recreate it,” he added.

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The president of an Ahwatukee group opposing construction of the South Mountain Freeway criticized the Arizona Department of Transportation’s takeover last week of Pecos Road maintenance from Phoenix’s control. ADOT announced that it had taken over Pecos Road, portions of 59th Avenue in the West Valley and several unspecified side streets as it prepares to begin building the controversial 22-mile freeway this year. ADOT made those thoroughfares part of the state highway system. The Pecos Road and 59th Avenue sections are now State Route 202. “It may be difficult to notice differences until freeway construction begins, but now ADOT is responsible for maintaining the pavement, sidewalks, drainage, traffic signals, signs and street lights along the right of way, as well as for providing street sweeping, debris removal and response to traffic incidents and emergencies,” ADOT said in a release. Pat Lawlis, president of Protect Arizona’s Resources and Children, which opposes the South Mountain Freeway, responded that “once again, ADOT has put the cart before the horse.” “First,” Lawless said, “its contractors destroyed the homes of numerous residents. Now, ADOT contractors are in the process of destroying our scenic hillsides.” PARC is awaiting a Federal Court judge’s ruling on its request to stop ADOT from building the freeway. A decision was expected last month. It remains unknown when the ruling will be handed down. Among other things, PARC is challenging the validity and conclusions of the environmental-impact study ADOT performed on properties near the freeway path. It contends that planners did not properly assess the freeway’s impact on nearby wells. Lawlis said the state takeover “explains why Pecos Road is currently a mess.” “It has needed landscaping attention for some time, with weeds and debris getting worse by the day,” she said. “So instead of taking care of its responsibility to its residents, the city has passed the responsibility for maintaining Pecos Road on to ADOT, even though ADOT’s only interest is in destroying Pecos Road. Since, however, ADOT is so willing to spend taxpayer money, let’s see some of it put into cleaning up Pecos Road, and doing something that really needs to be done for a change.” Lawlis said the entire Pecos Road median, especially from 32nd Street to Desert Foothills Parkway, is “in desperate need of

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Debris along Pecos Road and the proposed path of the South Mountain Freeway has been left unattended, according to the president of Protect Arizona’s Resources and Children, which opposes the highway.

weeding, tree trimming and trash removal.” Spokespersons for the Phoenix Streets Department and ADOT disputed those assertions. “We sweep there every 14 days,” city spokeswoman Monica Hernandez said, adding that Pecos Road is under a consistent watch by the Streets Department for potholes and other problems. ADOT spokesman Steve Elliott said, “Pecos Road and other city roadways in the corridor became part of the South Mountain Freeway right of way as of Aug. 1. The contractor will maintain the new area of ADOT responsibility throughout development of the freeway.” Once the freeway is built, Phoenix will take back responsibility for roadways that are not part of the actual freeway, ADOT said. ADOT added that the takeover was necessitated by some temporary right of way being needed for construction to allow crews to safely and efficiently complete the work. The South Mountain Freeway, which will run east and west along Pecos Road, and then curve north and south near 59th Avenue, will connect with Interstate 10 at each end. ADOT is eyeing a late 2019 opening, which would complete the Loop 101 and 202 freeway system and provide a bypass for I-10 traffic around downtown Phoenix. ADOT is conducting preliminary engineering, addressing cultural resources in the right of way, acquiring and preparing properties and relocating utilities. ADOT received final clearance from federal highway officials to move forward with the project in spring 2015. Information:azdot.gov/SouthMountainFreeway, protectAZchildren.org.

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Page 11

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF

Work has begun on a new gated community on the last piece of vacant land in the Silver Creek planning district near Mountain Pointe High School in Ahwatukee. Called Agave Heights and located around 46th Place and Agave Road, the Taylor-Morrison project calls for 25 single-family detached homes with private streets and a landscape buffer aimed at mitigating any impact on a nearby assisted living facility. Home sales are not expected to begin until the winter of 2017. The site was once eyed by a hospital, according to minutes of a Village Planning Committee meeting last November where the development won unanimous approval. The development is on land that is zoned for single-family residences and was recommended for approval earlier last year by city planners, records show. Records also show it is projected

to generate less traffic than two other kinds of development allowed on the site – multi-family residences or an office building. The houses are expected to be 2,000 to 4,000 square feet, though TaylorMorrison told the committee last November that prices had not yet been set, minutes show. Lot sizes would be at least 5,175 square feet and would include large backyards because of the site’s shape. During meetings prior to the committee’s approval, the developer had reached out to nearby Silver Creek North residents whose concerns apparently were eased when they were told no multifamily residences would be built on the site. The developer told the committee that the houses would be marketed to young families, professionals, and “those looking for easy access to adjacent employment opportunities,” according to the meeting minutes.

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Desert Foothills storage facility scheduled to go before village planning panel WANT MORE?

By Paul Maryniak AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS EDITOR

The Ahwatukee Foothills Village Planning Committee is scheduled to consider a selfstorage warehouse proposed for a 2.78-acre plot of vacant land at the intersection of Desert Foothills Parkway and Marketplace Way. The plan was introduced earlier this year but then withdrawn so that developers could hold more meetings with neighbors about the concept and design, a city source said. The nearly 104,000-square-foot building would have three floors, one of which would be below ground. Though proposed for a long-vacant piece of land zoned for commercial use, the project requires a special permit because it will be used for storage. The development is one of three topics slated for discussion at the committee’s public meeting at 6 p.m. Aug. 22 at the Pecos Recreation Center, 17010 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. The other two: the South Mountain Freeway and the Chandler

Boulevard Extension. The latter would replace Pecos Road when it is shut down for the duration of the freeway’s construction. The storage facility site has been vacant for the last 32 years. In a June 10 letter to neighbors, attorney Jessi Thornton, who represents the owner, 1784 Capital Holdings, promised a stateof-the-art facility where outside storage would be forbidden. “The use will provide a low-intensity, lowtraffic-generating buffer to the adjacent residential uses while providing convenient storage options for nearby residents and businesses,” he wrote. In documents originally filed with the city, his firm, Withey Morris PLC, called the project a neighborhood improvement that would eliminate a “magnet for unsafe activities and general nuisance.” The law firm said its proposed maximum height of 25 feet is lower than the two 30foot high single-story supermarkets nearby. And while the developer wants an exemption to a city requirement for only single-story buildings in that area, the law

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firm stated: “The proposed low-intensity commercial use is much more compatible with the adjacent residential than the more intense commercial uses that are permitted.” Because the developer intends to install 24-hour video surveillance equipment inside and around the building, the firm said it may seek a waiver of a city requirement that self-storage facilities have a guard on the premises. Calling that requirement “indicative of outdated self-storage models and facilities,” the firm said, “Extensive security measures negate the need for an on-site residence.” The firm also said that reflective glass will not be used in windows facing nearby homes and that entrances for traffic onto and away from the site would be on the building’s west side, opposite homes.

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Flooded Mandan Street family receives some help, as they watch brewing monsoon skies warily By Paul Maryniak AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS EDITOR

>> See FLOOD on page 15

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More than three weeks after a monsoon downpour ravaged their Ahwatukee home, Stacy Shwartz and husband Ronnie O’Steen are starting to recover slowly. There’s no way they can quickly replace the large sections of water-soaked walls in most rooms of their three-bedroom house on S. Mandan Street. They don’t know when they’ll have funds to replace the destroyed flooring in four rooms. The damage was caused by flooding during the massive July 18 storm. Their living room furniture will stay in a neighbor’s garage for the foreseeable future; for now, the living room houses their beds and those of their children. Before any of that can be repaired, they need to rebuild the 5-foot wall destroyed by the torrent of water that cascaded down South Mountain and flooded their home on S. Mandan Street. Twenty-one homes abut the mountain; only theirs was hit. Superlite Block has donated 12 pallets of heavy-duty concrete block and two pallets of mortar to help rebuild the wall. Stacy Schwartz points to the wall that she hopes can soon be replaced to divert runoff from South Mountain.

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FLOOD >> From page 14

They still need rebar and concrete for a footer, but Schwartz feels more optimistic now than she did last month – although she is still concerned every time a monsoon cloud darkens the sky. “There have been a few downpours the last couple weeks, but they went around us,” said Schwartz, the mother of a 4 and 6 year old. “I’m glued to the radar.” Mountain View Lutheran Church sent over a batch of new towels. “We really needed them because most of ours got ruined when I tried to block the water from coming into the house,” Schwartz said. Still, until the wall is rebuilt, Schwartz said she and her husband will remain uneasy. “There’s nothing to stop water from coming down again if there’s another heavy rain,” she said. “And I can’t start any repairs inside until that wall is back.” The flood covered their floors with about three inches of water and mud, demolishing an estimated $20,000 worth of repairs O’Steen had nearly completed on the walls and floors damaged by a similar flood in September 2014. Schwartz grew up in the house and inherited it in April 2015, about six months after her father passed away. She had just

acquired the title 10 days before last month’s flood; she had not obtained flood insurance. Their fear of another flood may be partially eased in a few weeks, according to Rana Lashgari, chief of staff for City Councilman Sal DiCiccio. Lashgari said city engineers are working with APS to resolve technical and legal issues that would allow the Ahwatukee Board of Management to bulldoze the mud into forming a berm that would divert water around the house in the event of another downpour. Because a severe enough storm could force water to breach that berm, a more effective barrier could be built next year after the city and APS resolve issues involving the utility’s electrical lines behind the house. But the most effective barrier that would protect the entire row of Manden Street homes is more than a year away. City and County officials have asked the Federal Emergency Management Agency for a $600,000 grant to build a wall farther up the mountain side to block any water from running down into the neighborhood. The wall, which would also cost the city and county $100,000 each, would only be high enough to divert water around the line of houses. That brought some comfort to Schwartz. She said city workers dropped off a booklet outlining projects they could undertake to safeguard their home two weeks ago.

“Those things aren’t in our budget,” Schwartz said, adding that all the proposed solutions called for a contractor. The Rev. Glenn Zorb, pastor of Mountain View Lutheran Church, has been trying to help Schwartz and O’Deen by seeking donations of money, services or household items they need and by trying to prod city and county bureaucrats into quicker action to prevent another flood. But he said the city and county seem to be doing all they can, and that they are just a part of a long and complicated federal process. Zorb said he learned the Manden Street project is “one of the state’s top five priority projects currently before FEMA.” FEMA has similar lists of grant requests from the other 49 states. “So if FEMA agrees after looking at the requests from all 50 states, this project could be funded by the end of the year,” Zorb said. It would then take at least until next summer to start the project, he added. Lashgari said she believes the process for getting FEMA approval could take longer. And it is unclear how a change in the White House, regardless of who wins the election, would affect any timetable for approving a grant. Meanwhile, donations to a GoFundMe.com site on the couple’s behalf total about $2,750 – a fraction of the $30,000 they estimate they’ll need to repair the house’s interior and backyard.

Zorb said he’s reaching out to people he knows for help, and noted that O’Deen is doing the same. Schwartz said she’s relieved the city and APS are moving quickly on a temporary diversion. “I just want all this mud out of here and off my property,” she said. For now, Schwartz and O’Deen are confining their family life to a badly damaged kitchen, a very crowded living room-turnedbedroom, and a guest bathroom. And as the Ahwatukee Foothills News hit deadline Tuesday, they also kept a fearful eye on the raging monsoon storm, hoping they wouldn’t get hit again.

How to help Monetary donation for Stacy Schwartz and Ronnie O’Deen can be made at www.gofundme. com/2f8jaznt. Or you can send a check made out to Mountain View Lutheran Church with “Schwartz Family Relief” in the memo line to Pastor Glenn Zorb, Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S 48th St, Phoenix, AZ 85044. People who want to donate items or services can email Pastor Zorb at GZorb@mvlutheran.org.

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Judge to hear case on recreational marijuana By Howard Fischer CAPITAL MEDIA SERVICE

Shelley Ridenour

Opponents and proponents of letting Arizona voters decide whether to legalize recreational marijuana get their chances to convince a judge on Friday. A 3-hour hearing is scheduled before Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Jo Lynn Gentry that day. Backers of the initiative get to respond to charges leveled by foes, who claim that the wording of the measure is flawed and the question can’t be placed on the Nov. 8 general election ballot. Attorney Brett Johnson, who represents challengers, contends the proposal is basically a fraud on voters. The most visible challengers are Maricopa County Attorney Bill Montgomery, Yavapai County Attorney Sheila Polk and the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Other opponents include state Rep. Paul Boyer, R-Phoenix, and Moses Sanchez, a Tempe Union High School District governing board member. The push to get the question before voters >> See MARIJUANA on page 17

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J.P. Holyoak, who chairs the effort to legalize recreational use of marijuana, discussed the drive that resulted in petitions with more than 250,000 signatures in June. With him is Kathy Inman of MomForce AZ, which supports the measure.

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is led by a group named the Campaign to Regulate Marijuana like Alcohol. The plaintiffs, who filed the lawsuit, claim that supporters misled people who signed the petitions to get the question on the ballot by saying the measure would regulate marijuana like alcohol. Before the issue hits the ballot, the required number of qualified signatures must still be verified by the secretary of state. Backers submitted petitions with 258,699 signatures. The required number of signatures to get on the ballot is 150,642. John Balitis, a partner with the Phoenix law firm Fennemore Craig, is an interested observer in the case. He predicts that no matter how Judge Gentry rules, the case will end up before the Arizona Supreme Court. Part of the argument to legalize pot usually refers to the ability to collect taxes which can benefit various entities. Proponents also say that legalizing pot means less money going to drug cartels, Balitis said. “For the proponents, in their view, medical marijuana hasn’t been bad, so they want to advance” its use, Balitis said. “Those arguments have largely been successful” in other states. Currently in Arizona, marijuana is legal for people with certain medical conditions who have a doctor’s recommendation and state-issued card. The most recent figures from the Arizona Department of Health Services show 97,938 qualifying patients, with another 853 certified as caregivers who can grow or obtain marijuana for someone else. There are about 4.8 million Arizonans who could qualify to purchase pot for recreational use if the measure passes. Johnson, the plaintiffs’ attorney, argues that there are multiple differences between

how Arizona law treats people who legally drink alcohol and people who would be able to use marijuana legally. For example, he pointed to language which says an employer who wants to fire a worker who is impaired by marijuana would have to show a worker was “performing any task while impaired by marijuana or a marijuana product that would constitute negligence or professional malpractice.’’ “That is not like alcohol,’’ Johnson said. But Kory Langhofer, who represents initiative backers, said there is nothing wrong or fraudulent about selling the initiative to voters as a system of regulation that parallels alcohol regulation. He said the similarities are far greater than any differences. “It’s legal with licenses and taxes and restrictions on where and when you can sell it, how you use it,’’ he said. That’s far more understandable and informative to voters than simply saying the proposal would legalize the recreational use of marijuana, Langhofer said. Johnson contends the measure does not pass legal muster because the description put on the initiative petitions, legally limited to 100 words, does not adequately describe what the measure does. The lawsuit drew an angry reaction from initiative organizers. “Our opponents have demonstrated that they are willing to do and say just about anything to maintain the failed policy of marijuana prohibition,’’ said campaign chairman J.P. Holyoak in a prepared statement. “This lawsuit is simply a desperate attempt to deprive Arizona voters of the right to vote on this ballot question.’’ – Follow Howard Fischer on Twitter @ azcapmedia. – Reach Shelley Ridenour at 480-898-6533 or at sridenour@ahwatukee.com. – Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills News on Facebook

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Just Say No! to Ahwatukee Farms Ensure the Restoration of Ahwatukee Lakes The Maricopa County Superior Court ruled in July that existing Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs) require that the land be used as a golf course. Lacking a legal decision to develop the course, True Life Corporation is attempting to defy the court ruling by amending the CC&Rs. 50% of property owners or approximately 2,600 signatures are required to amend the CC&Rs to end-run the court ruling. SAY NO! Do NOT sign anything that would allow the CC&Rs to be changed.

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State officials concerned that Arizona Olympics travelers may bring Zika CRONKITE NEWS

As the eyes of the world descend upon Brazil, Valley resident Marla Dorman is ready to cheer on Team USA, hoping the experience outweighs the risk of Zika. “It’s kind of like this all around the world now; you just can’t lock yourself inside,” she said. While athletes, coaches and fans gather for the first Olympics in South America, health officials around the world continue to monitor the situation in Brazil. Arizona officials warn that the potential issues with Zika do not end when people leave Brazil. Jessica Rigler, branch chief for public health preparedness at the Arizona Department of Health Services, said once travelers return to Arizona they need to continue to be vigilant to make sure, they do not accidentally spread the disease to mosquitos in the state. “We are concerned here in Arizona about people returning from Zika-affected areas,” she said. “People really need to come back and protect themselves from mosquito bites for at least three weeks after they return so they are not infecting our Arizona mosquitos.” Zika has been making headlines around the world, but the mosquito-spread disease

has hit Brazil particularly hard. Some have decided against traveling to Rio de Janeiro because of the potential medical issues related to the virus. The biggest concern is the possibility of microcephaly, a serious birth defect. NBC’s Savannah Guthrie, who is pregnant, and Team USA cyclist Tejay van Garderen are not making the trip, citing the disease. Dorman is not just a typical fan of Team USA. She is the mother of Sam Dorman, a U.S. diver who is making his Olympic debut in Rio, competing in the men’s synchronized 3-meter springboard. Sam said he is more focused on preparing for his shot at gold than the possibility of contracting Zika. “We leave it to our staff and our trainers,” he said. “They take care of that and they handle all of those things. When they handle that it can allow us to focus on training and focus on what we’re doing.” Arizona health officials also warn that even if no symptoms are present when a person returns from an affected country, it’s important to continue the use of mosquito repellents to prevent accidental spread of the disease in the state. According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, at least 10 Arizonans have been infected with Zika since the beginning

(Special to AFN)

By Tyler Fingert

This 2006 photograph depicts a mosquito while she was in the process of acquiring a blood meal from her human host, who in this instance was actually the biomedical photographer, James Gathany, at the Centers for Disease Control.

of this year while traveling overseas. Of them, at least eight are from Maricopa County and at least two are from Pima County. However, the large number of travelers heading to Brazil for the Olympics is not expected to help spread Zika in Arizona. The number of people heading to Brazil for the Olympic Games represents “a very small fraction,” about a quarter of a percent, of the people who traveled to Zika-affected

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countries in 2015, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Weather will play a factor too. According to the World Health Organization, the spread of the Zika virus is not expected to be widespread during the Olympic Games because August is Brazil’s winter. In the colder weather there are expected to be fewer mosquitoes, thus reducing the likelihood of a visitor being bitten. However, while the WHO says the chance of getting infected with Zika will be lower during the Olympic Games than during the summer in Brazil, they still recommend people take appropriate precautions by protecting themselves from a mosquito bite. The CDC recommends travelers wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, stay in places with air conditioning and window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside, use Environmental Protection Agencyregistered insect repellents, and stay away from mosquito breeding sites, like containers with standing water. WHO health officials continue to warn that women who are pregnant should avoid traveling to affected areas because of the potential for birth defects. -Cronkite News reporter Allison Gargaro contributed to this report.

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS EDITOR

While gratefully accepted, a $100 donation to a charity doesn’t do much these days. But multiply that figure by 100 or more and you’re talking about having a serious impact on that charity’s mission. That is the essence of the 100+ Women Who Care of the Valley of the Sun Chapter, a growing philanthropic organization founded by Ahwatukee resident Kim Tarnopolski with the help of three friends. “I heard about the concept two years ago and I thought it was amazing,” said Tarnopolski, who is getting ready for the group’s next quarterly meeting 5:30-7:30 p.m. Aug. 23 at Four Points by Sheraton Phoenix South Mountain, 10831 S. 51st St., Ahwatukee. If you go to the meeting, be prepared for a friendly gathering run with the precision of a military marching band. “It’s an exercise in awesome efficiency,” Tarnopolski said. While members and guests have up to an hour to socialize, 6:30 p.m. marks the start of a meeting that moves according to straightforward and exact rules that eliminate back-door lobbying and favoritism in the group’s selection of a beneficiary. First off, everybody who attends brings a check for $100 with the payee line left blank. The name they put on that line will depend on what happens over the next hour as the names of three charities are pulled from a hat. Everyone who attends has a chance to nominate a charity, but they need to be there if their candidate’s name is pulled and be prepared to give a five-minute presentation about the group without the help of PowerPoints or any other props. And they must have submitted the name to Tarnopolski and the rest of the executive committee at least two weeks before the meeting so the nominees can be carefully vetted. That vetting process is designed to ensure that the charity is a registered nonprofit, has been active at least three years, can provide charitable tax receipts to the donors, and meet a number of other requirements laid out on the group’s website, 100wwcvalleyofthesun.org. Page 22

During the meeting, members can ask the presenter questions. After the three presentations are completed, the group votes. Whoever gets the most votes wins those checks. The recipient of that largesse attends the next quarterly meeting to discuss how “Big Give” was used. But by when 7:30 rolls around, business is over, so busy women need not worry about staying late. The first 100+ Women Who Care chapter was started in 2006 by Karen Dunigan, the former mayor of Jackson, Michigan, who organized friends and acquaintances to each give $100 to help an organization buy portable baby cribs for needy new moms. Tarnopolski was so taken by the concept, which has spread to more than 350 communities across the country, that she attended another Phoenix chapter’s meeting in Arcadia to see how it worked. She was so excited by what she witnessed that she called on three friends who each had a special expertise she felt necessary to organize and maintain the group. They included Jenn Kaye of Scottsdale, a communications expert in branding; Stephanie Millner of Queen Creek, who has a strong business background and experience in the nonprofit world; and Jacqueline Destremps of Tempe, an expert in website development and social media. “I thought to myself that Phoenix is such a large city there was room for more of these chapters, so I decided to bring it to Ahwatukee and Scottsdale,” said

The founders and executive team of the 100+ Women Who Care Valley of the Sun Chapter are, from left: Jenn Kaye of Scottsdale, Stephanie Millner of Queen Creek, Kim Tarnopolski of Ahwatukee, and Jacqueline Destremps of Tempe.

Tarnopolski, a retired human resources worker. Though she has experience in organizing large events, Tarnopolski also said, “I have a big heart for charities and bringing the community together.” The Ahwatukee and Scottsdale groups are considered “sister organizations” under the Valley of the Sun Chapter. This month, they are giving birth to a third sister group in the West Valley. The Ahwatukee group has 180 women, about 60 of whom are Tempe businesswomen and the rest from Ahwatukee, and the Scottsdale group counts 120 so far. Together, they have already raised a total $98,775 for 12 charities – about a fifth of the way toward a goal of raising

(Special to AFN)

By Paul Maryniak

(Special to AFN)

Ahwatukee women lead group that makes‘Big Gives’ to charities

Some of the other Ahwatukee women who belong to 100+ Women Who care are, from left: Gina Quinn, Sandra Franks, Rose Grande, Maureen McCloud, and Kathy Belfiore.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

$500,000 in five years. The six that have received “Big Gives” from the Ahwatukee group include: the YMCA Outreach Program for Ahwatukee Seniors; the Junior Diabetes Research Foundation Desert Southwest Foundation; Teen Reach Adventure Camp, a Chandler group for young people; Tumbleweed, a Phoenix group that helps Arizona homeless teens get off the streets; Sunshine Angels, which provides help for at-risk teens; and the Joy Bus, which delivers nutritious meals to shut-in cancer patients. The group is focused on raising money. “People want to donate things like household goods, but our answer is that’s a different model,” Tarnopolski said. “We keep things as simple as possible.” Nevertheless, the exposure the charities get helps in other ways. “One of our members moved out of state and donated half her household furniture to a charity,” Tarnopolski said. “The awareness we create for these charities is tremendous.” If an individual woman can’t afford $100, she is allowed to form a team with another woman or three others. But the $100 every quarter is absolutely essential to the group’s aim of making a big impact. Community foundations that are looking for to match donations also are allowed to be nominated. Oh, and by the way: Guys, find yourself another way to help your community. This is strictly for women only. More: 100WWCValleyoftheSun.com.

AROUND AHWATUKEE

Phoenix Police set ‘Tukee Talks’ on legal marijuana Officers from the South Mountain Precinct of the Phoenix Police will be on hand 6:30-8 p.m. Aug. 24 at Pecos Recreation Center, 17010 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee, to meet local residents during another quarterly “Tukee Talks” session. “It is a great opportunity for citizens to talk to the members of the Police Department who serve the Ahwatukee neighborhood in a friendly atmosphere and express any cares or concerns,” said Community Programs Officer Holly Dancy. The session will include a discussion by a narcotics detective about medical marijuana and the impact of legalization. Coffee and light refreshments will be provided by Target.

Chamber offers info for young entrepreneurs The Ahwatukee Chamber Community Foundation will host a Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) information session for students in grades 6-12, their families, and local business leaders. YEA! is a 30-week program that guides middle and high school students through

launching and running their own real businesses or social movements. The info session is 5:30-6:30 p.m. Aug. 23 at the chamber’s offices, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. It will cover the structure, curriculum, and application process for the program, as well as how business leaders can get involved as a mentor, guest speaker, field trip host, or investor. YEA! alumni will also discuss first-hand about their experiences and their business launches. The session is free and open to the public. Information/RSVP: Pamela Manwaring at 602-515-3800 to RSVP or www. ahwatukeechamber.com.

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 next week. The breakfast is 7:30-9:30 a.m. Tuesday 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

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Ahwatukee Foothills Montessori is now enrolling new pupils and is running a series of open house sessions at 4 p.m. Wednesdays. The open house includes a short talk on Montessori education and a tour of the facility, 3221 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Information: 480-759-3810.

Ahwatukee blood donors can win a new car Donors at one of the upcoming Ahwatukee blood drives sponsored by United Blood Services can win a 2016 Volkswagen Passat S. United said blood of all types is urgently needed and that all donors 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. United’s bloodmobile will be at the following Ahwatukee locations: 8:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Monday, Charles Schwab & Co.,

Studio 111 schedules Nutcracker auditions Christmas may seem far away, but Studio 111 owner Kimberly Lewis needs a lot of time to mount her elaborate production of The Nutcracker ballet. That’s why she has scheduled public auditions for anyone ages 3 to 20 on Aug. 20 at her studio, 4910 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Performances are scheduled Dec. 17 and 18 at Desert Vista High School’s fine arts theater. Times for auditions vary with ages, so check the studio’s website, www. afnutcracker.com. Information: 480-706-6040.

Sandbags available if storms produce flooding Amid predictions of heavy rain today, the Phoenix Fire Department is making sand available at Station 43, 4110 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. People must bring their own bags and shovels, fire officials said.

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Olympics bring fond memories for Ahwatukee lawyer who was part of 1992 Barcelona games By Paul Maryniak

Ahwatukee retiree finds a ‘fun challenge’ as volunteer in VISTA-like program

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS EDITOR

Page 24

By Paul Maryniak AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS EDITOR

(Special to AFN)

Watching last Friday’s opening ceremonies for the 2016 Summer Olympics stirred the same kind of memories that Jill Johnson Chasson of Ahwatukee has experienced every four years for the last two decades. Her mind flashes back to Barcelona, Spain, where Chasson, now an employment-law attorney with the Phoenix firm Coppersmith Brockelman, spent three weeks on the U.S. swim team in the 1992 Games. It was the year of USA Basketball’s first Dream Team of Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Charles Barkley, who’d just joined the Suns, and other basketball legends; the year that tennis ace Jennifer Capriati won the singles tennis championship at age 16; the year that Indonesia won its first-ever gold medal (badminton). For Chasson, then 23 and two years out of Stanford University, it was an exciting and bewildering time. “It was a little bit overwhelming,” she recalled. “I had been to some high-level swimming meets but not to one with all sports represented. Being in the Olympic Village was really impressive, a lot like being in a small town. The pool was great. And Barcelona was a fantastic city. I would still like to get back some day to visit.” A resident of Boston at the time, Chasson was among 15 women on the U.S. 40-member swimming team. She knew most of her teammates from other meets in the States in high school and college. A competitive swimmer since age 7, she had been spending at least 20 hours a week in the pool preparing for the Olympics. That regimen was complemented by several hours of dry-land training, as well. She spent several weeks in southern France at a training camp for the team, preparing for her specialty, the breaststroke. She only got better. But that training camp doomed her Olympic debut. “I got sick a week before I raced and my personal performance wasn’t the way I wanted it to be,” she said. “I swam early in the Olympics, like the second day.” She placed 14th, but wasn’t going to sulk during this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Jill Johnson Chasson, a lawyer who lives in Ahwatukee, swam for Team USA in the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona, Spain.

“I could not sit around feeling sorry for myself,” she said. “So I hung around and supported the team.” She said the most difficult thing about living in the Olympic Village was “getting used to the routine.”

that achieving swimming-pool stardom is “not necessarily my ambition for them.” Her competitive spirit is now devoted to the practice of law, which includes advising employers

“ The closing festivities were a blast, very festive.”

–Jill Chasson on '92 Olympics

“A lot of stuff goes behind the scenes and there are a lot of logistics involved in getting to the competition pool. There were schedules to follow and they didn’t always allow you to warm up and practice. You had to adjust your preparation time accordingly.” Chasson retired from competitive swimming after those Olympics to go to law school. She moved to Phoenix in 1998 and still swims every week. Her connection to competition now comes through her children, Alex, 16, and Caroline, 13, who are both on the Desert Vista High swim team. Both have competed in state meets, though “they’re not competing at the level I was at their age.” She tries to resist the temptation of giving them tips or critiquing their performances. “I try to be there for moral and emotional support,” she said, adding

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

on the many federal and state laws that govern the workplace and training supervisors and human resource professionals. She represents employers before administrative agencies, in arbitration proceedings, and in litigation in federal and state courts in connection with a variety of employment-related claims. While her Olympics experience is a memory, it’s hardly distant. She has a trunk of memorabilia, and attends swim team reunions. And she’s watching the televised games as much as possible, looking forward to the closing ceremonies with particular fondness. “The closing ceremonies were a blast, very festive,” she said. “I don’t know if people do this anymore, but at the end, all the athletes rushed out onto the field. We were dancing and having a good time.”

After retiring as a Chicago savings-andloan bank president and then a Cadillac salesman, Dean Cooper didn’t feel like sitting on his hands in his new home in Ahwatukee. So he signed up to be an elementaryschool helper through Your Experience Counts, a program of HandsOn Greater Phoenix. He has only one word for his first day: “Stunned.” “I work with fifth-graders and some of these kids live on their own,” Cooper said. “They take the light rail or buses to get to school but there’s no such thing as parentteacher meetings. Some of these kids have never sat on a parent’s lap to be read to.” As he enters his third year at Crockett Elementary School in south Phoenix, Cooper is having the time of his life. “It’s a fun challenge,” Cooper said. HandsOn Greater Phoenix is the local chapter of Americorps Vista, which does the same thing that the decades-old VISTA program does abroad. It recruits volunteers who go into some of the poorest sections of American cities and rural areas to partner with other groups and try to tackle homelessness, hunger, education, animal welfare, environmental challenges and other problems. Your Experience Counts has been recruiting and training classroom volunteers – mostly retirees – for 11 years. Working with their mentor-teachers, volunteers primarily support individual students and small groups with reading interventions in the third through sixth grades. Mike Beardslee, YEC program manager, said that volunteers are increasingly being asked to assist students and teachers in math and science. “Content knowledge and instructional practices have been dramatically changing,” Beardslee said. “Students are being asked to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Our volunteers are able to bring real-world application and experiences to the lesson.” In the 2015-16 school year, there were nearly 100 YEC volunteers serving more than 3500 students in 23 schools in Maricopa County. Most volunteers are retirees from business, military, professional fields, office workers, health care and technology, as well as education. >> See VOLUNTEER on page 25

VOLUNTEER >> From page 24

Cooper could not accept passive retirement. “I was only retired two weeks and went online looking for a direction to go,” he recalled. “I can’t understand people who put all this time into a job and when they retire just don’t do anything.” Cooper said Crockett Elementary is in a poor part of the city and serves many transient families. “When you find out who you’re working with you ask yourself, ‘What is going on here?’ The place is immaculate and the teacher I work with has been there 16 years. But the school doesn’t have the same kind of services and help that schools in Ahwatukee or Tempe have. I have a granddaughter in school and I know all the programs they have for kids.” The inequality in services he sees only motivates Cooper to do as much as he can. “You work with kids, the good ones and the bad ones,” he said. “Our job is to put them on a track to meeting educational standards, but we try to make those standards something they

can achieve.” Cooper’s experience is not unlike that of other retirees who have signed up with the program, Beardslee said. Betty Davidson, who spent 43 years as a scientist and research professor at Arizona State University, has been a YEC volunteer at Guerrero Elementary in Mesa supporting fifth-grade science and social-studies teacher Leslie Hawkins. “Betty is a model of real-world application of science and an example of how one subject can span multiple careers,” Hawkins said. “Thanks to her, I have created an entire unit involving insects or butterflies each year.” Al Nelson is in his third year as a volunteer after 33 years with Target in merchandising and as a senior buyer. “I have used the training experience to help motivate my students,” he said. Teacher-mentor Jen Friend at Longview Elementary in the Osborn School District, said Nelson “comes to the classroom with a math mind. He understands the curriculum and can break down concepts and assist struggling students. He is a complete joy to have in the classroom.” Michele Southerland, a first year volunteer at Luke Elementary in the Dysart Unified School District, used her career background in business

and accounting, and her passion and experience in music, to support sixthgraders in math, reading and writing. “She helped ensure all students were successful at the task at hand,” teacher Shelly Drysdale said. “She made math manipulatives for students that all teachers can share. And because of her love of music, she helped start and coach a girls a cappella club.” Before his recent retirement, Craig Lyon’s engineering and aerospace career included assignments with the Air Force Propulsion Laboratory and technical and management positions at Honeywell – all of which included global travel. Lyon completed his first year as a YEC volunteer with students in math in the third grade at Lincoln Elementary in Mesa Public Schools. “Children learn best in a fun environment,” Lyon said. “I did not want them to see math as a negative, but something to be enjoyed.” He helped students with problem solving, had them create charts and games, utilized iPhone applications and developed hands-on math resources. All YEC volunteers receive extensive training before and during the school year. “We provide training to build the confidence and knowledge of our members in curriculum, instruction

and classroom management. Because of their experience in the work world, volunteers adapt quickly to the requirements and strategies for teaching the new math standards,” Beardslee said. –More volunteers are needed for the 2016-17 school year. Information: mike@ handsonphoenix.org; 602-973-2212 x239; or visit http://handsonphoenix.org/YEC .

WANT MORE?

There’s always more ways to Get Out on our website: www.Ahwatukee.com

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 Page 25

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

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eaturing elegant boulevards and thought-

fully crafted homes against the gorgeous

views of South Mountain, Ahwatukee Farms continues the legacy of bright, charming neighborhoods. It transforms a

provide a healthy lifestyle, be a hub of energy, and

property that has been fallow for three years

deliver quality education.

connect with their neighbors every day.

into a treasured community where families can

The land surrounding Ahwatukee Farms was built on agriculture. The rich soil and protected spaces made the area attractive to farmers who settled in the Valley. Over time, farms gave way to communities. Continuing in this tradition, a community farm will be the heart of Ahwatukee Farms, serving as a hub for activity and interaction. Always abuzz, the farm will provide farm tours, harvest festivals, farm-to-table dinners, gardening workshops and cooking demonstrations. Integrated with the farm will be a new Montessori school campus.

Montessori schools are

highly respected institutions that pride themselves on creating an environment for children in which they are encouraged to explore, create, learn, socialize, and celebrate their unique talents. The farm will serve as a backdrop and an outdoor classroom. The Ahwatukee Farms community is a living part of its natural surroundings, with an instinctive bond between residents and nature.

Today,

more than ever, fresh air, fresh food, and a place to grow are needed. This is a place to foster meaningful relationships and connect with living systems.

info@AhwatukeeFarms.com ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 Page 27

Crossing guards get schooled as they prepare for year AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER

More than 100 volunteer school crossing guards in the East Valley gathered in Mesa last week to brush up on their safety skills. The workshop at the convention center also provided an opportunity for guards to swap stories about past run-ins with distracted parents and other drivers. “I almost got hit a couple of times,” Grace Cole said during a break. Last year was her first as a crossing guard at Eisenhower Elementary in Mesa She recalled a day when another driver braked a little too late approaching an empty crosswalk and mowed down a “Stop When Children In Crosswalk” sign. Cole said the woman got out of her car and yelled, “‘What is that sign doing in the middle of the road?’” No wonder that crossing guards emphasize being highly observant, especially now that East Valley drivers are encountering many 15 mph school zones again after a long layoff. A key part of being alert, veteran guards and traffic cops told workshop participants, is to make eye contact with drivers. A harried mom or a distracted dad who’s on the phone or keeps glancing

toward the back seat is potential trouble. Drivers who make eye contact with the guard are engaged and act more predictably. Organized by the city of Mesa Transportation Department and the Maricopa Association of Governments, the workshop presented a series of videos outlining the differences between yellow (15 mph) school crosswalks and regular white crosswalks. Guards were told where and when to place portable signs and when to remove them. After being shown various ways to handle two-way stops, four-way stops and signaled intersections, participants progressed to live scenarios, with some posing as school kids and the guards careful to don their mandatory fluorescent green safety vests, hats and hand-held red stop paddles. Jean DeStories of Mesa Fire & Medical kicked off the workshop with important reminders for guards to keep hydrated and recognize the symptoms of heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The workshop concluded with a review by police officers from Mesa, Gilbert >> See CROSSING GUARDS on page 29

(Will Powers/AFN Staff Photographer)

By Mike Butler

Virginia Blubaum (center) carefully watches crossing guard trainees Patricia Avena and Amy Stickel in a demonstration of crossing guard techniques at the Mesa Convention Center.

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CROSSING GUARDS >> From page 28

and Chandler of traffic laws regarding crosswalks. Officers cautioned crossing guards that their primary focus is to keep kids safe. Guards are not there to enforce the law or direct traffic, such as waving cars through or stopping vehicles to let other cars make turns. “It was very informative,” said Sami Armendariz, who is starting his second year of guard duty at Eisenhower Elementary. “It’s a huge responsibility.” Grace Cole agreed, then added: “The kids are so much fun. They really are.” With East Valley schools back in session, drivers need to slow down and be alert at crosswalks to avoid potential harm to kids and crossing guards. Fines will also harm your budget; they range from $125 to $500 in East Valley cities.

Motorists must stop for all pedestrians (not just children) in any part of the yellow crosswalk. The 15 mph zone begins at the first sign and ends once the vehicle has cleared the crosswalk. Passing is forbidden, even if you’re traveling at the speed limit. Fines can be doubled for violations in a yellow school crossing. At unmarked and marked white crosswalks, pedestrians must yield to vehicles before entering the roadway. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk only if they are in their half of the roadway. Motorists may not pass any vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk. Although it’s not a good idea to jaywalk, it’s not illegal as long as the pedestrian has yielded the right-of-way to all vehicles on the road. You can be ticketed if you jaywalk a street that has no side streets between traffic signals, which often occurs in downtown districts. – Reach Mike Butler at 480-898-6581 or at mbutler@timespublications.com.

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3 Ahwatukee Cub packs looking for new members (Special to AFN)

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF

Three Ahwatukee-based Cub Scout packs are holding open houses this month to recruit new members who are in kindergarten through fifth grade. Cub Scout Pack 278 has an open house for boys and their parents at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 15 in rooms 5 and 6 at Corpus Christi Church, 3350 E. Knox Road, Ahwatukee. No commitment will be required. Also at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 22, Cub Pack 78 is holding an open house in the multipurpose room of Kyrene de la Monte Vista, 15221 S. Ray Road, Ahwatukee. Pack 178 has scheduled an open house at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 22 at Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11022 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. That pack meets the second Monday of the month. Pack 178 was founded in 1980, making it Ahwatukee’s oldest, according to spokesman Les Brown, a den leader. He noted that even when school is not in session, cubs still engage in activities. Over the summer boys held a rocket launch in Desert Foothills Park and attended a Diamondbacks game. Similar activities also are undertaken by the other two packs. This year Pack 178 is introducing the National Lion Pilot, the Boy Scouts of America’s new pilot program for kindergarten boys. Boys must be 5 years old by Sept. 30 and no older than

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Luke Brown,7, of Ahwatukee,participated in Cub Scout Pack 178's rocket launch event earlier this summer.

7 years. “Lion is a family-oriented program,” Brown said. “A boy and his parent or caring adult join together. A group of six to eight boys and their adult partners meet together in a group called a den. Dens will meet approximately twice per month. They have fun participating in den meetings and outings while making memories together Pack 78 works “very hard to support our local community, gathering canned/boxed foods, park & trail clean-up, and donating to the Just a Center and Kyrene Resource Center,” said spokeswoman Desiree Wallin. Wallin said Pack 78 also is looking for a first grade den leader. •Information on Pack 78: BSAPack78@ gmail.com, www.BSAPack78.org •Information on Pack 178: http://www. azpack178.com •Information on Pack 278: nanzdiggs@ gmail.com, www.azpack278.com.

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CALENDAR TUESDAY, AUG. 23

100+ Women 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 screenings 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 tax-deductible 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.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 1

Grandparent support set

Grandparents who are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, and alone can join a group of fellow grandparents raising their grandchildren as they share, learn and grow together. First-time participants are asked to call ahead of attending. DETAILS>> 6-8 p.m., Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 2745 N. 32nd St., Mesa. 602-274-5022; duetaz.org

Parkinson’s disease get an opportunity to ask questions and learn creative and caring problem-solving techniques in a supportive environment at no cost. First timers are asked to call before attending. DETAILS>> 1:30-3:30 p.m., Red Mountain Multi-Generational Center, 7550 E. Adobe St., Mesa. 602-274-5022; duetaz.org

ONGOING

Local host families sought

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.

Alzheimer’s group meets

DETAILS>> 10-11:30 a.m. Ahwatukee Alzheimer’s Support Group meets the first Saturday of the month at Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St.

MONDAYS

Chamber offers networking

MONDAY, SEPT. 5

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.

Unpaid caregivers who are taking care of a loved one with

This group addresses the informational, emotional and social

Caregivers can get help

Group aids MS sufferers

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.

WEDNESDAYS

Grief support available

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.

Foothills Women meet

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 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.

Parent Connection opens

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 602-827-8200, ext. 348, or email rcarter@cals.arizona.edu.

Get a donut with Democrats

Free and open to the public 7:30-9 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.

LD 18 Dems change site

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.

THURSDAYS

Learn about 3D-Networkx

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. 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. >> SeeCALENDAR on page 31

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

Arizona Community Foundation gives grants to 2 Ahwatukee groups

CALENDAR >> From page 30

Chamber offers leads

Two Ahwatukee-based organizations received grants from the Arizona Community Foundation during the first quarter of its fiscal year, which began April 1. The foundation and its six statewide affiliates awarded a total of more than $11.2 Free child care for ages 0 to 5. DETAILS>> 9 a.m. second and fourth Thursday, Foothills million in grants to groups that are active Baptist Church, 15450 S. 21st St. Call Kim at 480-759-2118, ext. 218. in one of its targeted areas, including health innovations, quality education, arts FRIDAYS and culture, community improvement and development and environment. The two Ahwatukee recipients were This chamber-exclusive Chapter of the International Toastmasters club boasts professional development skills. Serving Paraguay, which got three You will learn to become a competent communicator by separate grants totaling $13,500, and expanding your speaking, listening and leadership skills. DETAILS>> 8-9 a.m. Fridays at the First American Title Keystone Montessori Charter School, Conference Room, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite 100. For which received $7,500. information, call 480-753-7676. Serving Paraguay which is a Christian organization that administers to children SATURDAYS in that country from its Ahwatukee headquarters. The grant to Keystone Ahwatukee/Chandler nonprofit breast cancer support group. Montessori is for student scholarships DETAILS>> 10 a.m. to noon, second Saturday of every month. and comes from a foundation fund that a Morrison Boardroom next to Chandler Regional Medical Valley couple established for Montessori Center, 1875 W. Frye Road, Chandler. Contact Patti Lynch at T:4.915 ‘’ 480-893-8900 or tomklynch@msn.com or Cele Ludig at 480- preschools and teacher development, said Megan Brownell, the foundation’s chief 330-4301. S:4.79 ‘’ 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 480-753-7676.

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF

Preschoolers' moms gather

Toastmasters teach skills

Bosom Buddies slates meetings

brand and impact officer. The area that received the largest share of grants this quarter, with $5.58 million awarded to 513 organizations and programs, came in the areas of health, health care, medical research and a variety of human services. Recipients include The Children’s Center for Neurodevelopmental Studies, offering comprehensive educational, therapeutic, and programs for children and adults with autism and related disabilities; New Life Center, a temporary safe haven for families fleeing domestic violence and provider of comprehensive support programs; and Jewish Genetic Diseases Center of Greater Phoenix, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness of Jewish genetic diseases. Also receiving a grant in that area was Ability360, which helps people with disabilities take personal responsibility to achieve self-sufficiency and independent living. Education grants and scholarships totaled more than $3 million, including college scholarship awards totaling

$511,326 for 159 students. Education-related grants were awarded to 172 schools, education-related nonprofit organizations and community programs. Among the recipients were Arizona Science Center for its Science on Wheels Family Science Nights, Junior Achievement of Arizona, Flagstaff Public Library Foundation and Verde Valley School. Nearly $1 million was awarded to 103 artistic and cultural organizations across Arizona. They include Sedona Arts Center, Arizona Theatre Company, Phoenix Art Museum, Scottsdale Cultural Council, Ballet Arizona, Valley Youth Theatre, Lake Powell Concert Association, Act One Foundation, Yuma Orchestra Association, Arizona PBS, Heard Museum and Center Dance Ensemble. A total $925,376 was awarded to 137 community improvement programs,

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Pals come together to save shelter dogs with Project PALS By Caity Hemmerle AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER

>> See PALS on page 33

(Special to AFN)

Four women from Tempe have come together to help find homes for dogs in need of love throughout the Valley. Every week, the Project PAL friends pick one dog to feature on their website and social media in hopes that they can find it a home. Once they have chosen a dog, they make a donation to the dog’s shelter. Recently, the crew was at the Maricopa County Animal Care and Control East Valley shelter in Mesa to help wash and walk dogs. “We started our project the first week of January 2016,” said Kim Bistany, one of the founders of Project PAL. “We wanted to literally put our money where our mouths were, so we decided to put together an initiative where we focused specifically on one dog per week to sponsor and promote.” Bistany explained that the four all grew up in Tempe in the same community, noting that, “the four of us were constantly searching ‘adoptable dogs’ online and sending each other links to look at different dogs we had fallen in love The driving forces behind Project PAL are sisters Nikki and Nina Maggio (from left), along with Kim Bistany and Tristan Gertsch.

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Volunteers Rob Miller and Lynda Wittig play with a dog off the leash in dog a run at the Maricopa County Animal Care and Control East Valley shelter in Mesa.

PALS >> From page 32

with. So, we wanted to come up with a concept that would allow us to share these adoptable dogs and tap into our networks, neighborhoods, and our communities.” Bistany said that since the shelters house so many dogs, they have to promote

DeMykal Anderson of Phoenix plays with one of the dogs at the shelter in Mesa.

of those adoptions were directly from our efforts,” she added. “The others we believe were a combination of social media outreach from the shelters themselves, volunteers and other organizations crosspromoting at the same time.” Bistany added that after a few months, the girls noticed they were crosspromoting some of the same dogs as One Love Pit Bull Foundation. “We reached out to them to see how we could help support their work since they already have the non-profit status, the structure, and all of the knowledge to really be the ones to make a difference,” she said. “After meeting with them, we decided to team up and now we have created Pup Tees by Project Pal” at shoppuptees.com. The two teams worked together to launch this campaign, have all of the costs to purchase and print shirts underwritten by sponsors. All of the money from each Pup Tee purchase goes directly to their foundation to support the shelter dog program. “We do not accept donations for Project PAL specifically. Since we do the weekly donations personally, we now have a way for our community to support the efforts,” Bistany said. “So many people have already purchased our Pup Tees that we are getting ready to launch our second campaign.” Bistany said that the members of Project

PAL are just four young professionals who have a heart for shelter dogs. “We are all overwhelmed and so excited that our community has rallied behind our efforts and helped us start off so successfully,” Bistany said. “It has truly been an honor to get to know the different people advocating for the pups.”

(Will Powers/AFN Staff Photographer)

multiple dogs per day. So, they thought it would be interesting to take a different, more targeted approach. “Once the dog is selected, we make a donation to help with costs for that week and we obtain as many photos and information on the dog as we can. “Then, we create a blog to highlight the dog’s qualities, and we spend the whole week blasting pictures and information on the dog to our social media followers.” Project PAL’s blog is at projectpalaz. com and on Facebook at facebook.com/ projectpalaz. Project PAL has now featured 29 dogs, and only four are still available for adoption, Bistany said. “Looking back, we know for sure 14

A reluctant dog gets a scrubdown at the Mesa shelter.

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 Page 33

Opinion

ahwatukee.com

Ahwatukee Foothills News online

Views expressed are those of the authors.

By Paul Maryniak AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS EDITOR

overlooking the harder side of school coverage – namely the business of education. We’ll be monitoring governing board meetings, reviewing audits, budgets and other reports, and asking school officials tougher questions about district business. But education is a far greater subject than budget discussions and program questions. If we didn’t pay attention to what is actually going on in classrooms and the results of all the work that goes into them, we’d only be doing half of our job. That’s why you’ll be reading about the achievements and efforts of individual students and groups – and why you’re bound to come across some stories about teachers and administrators doing some marvelous things to expand those students’ knowledge and experience. One way we’ll be doing that is with a weekly roundup of some of the activities and accomplishments taking place in most Ahwatukee schools. We’re giving schools a few weeks to settle into their groove for the year before that feature appears, probably near the end of the month. I certainly welcome parents to contact me about a unique activity involving their kids. Ditto for high school students themselves who feel like bragging a bit about something they’ve done for class or in an extracurricular activity. If you’re an empty nester who is rolling your eyes over this prospect, consider this: Your tax dollars are financing these activities, so wouldn’t you like to know what you’re getting for your money? Moreover, the Ahwatukee Foothills News covers the community. And a community is more than dollars and cents, controversies and discussions. It’s about the kids who are growing up in those communities – and the adults who are helping them follow in our paths.

My visit to Kyrene de la Estrella Elementary School in Ahwatukee for the district’s annual Meet the Teacher Night July 27 left me with some impressions I won’t soon forget. It started with Principal Michael Lamp standing at the doorway welcoming scores of kids, with parents in tow, as they streamed in to see their new classrooms and meet the teachers who would become a near-daily presence in their lives for the next 10 months. Lamp instantly wiped away any sense of intimidation his towering figure might have induced by stooping down, shaking children’s hands or hugging them, and greeting many by name. Questions like “How was your summer?” and warm personal reminders from the previous year made him seem more like a friend than a principal to even the most reticent pupil. That friendly tone infused the entire evening, from district and school personnel who talked to parents about their children’s schedules; vendors of Principal Michael Lamp shakes hands with incoming first-grader Heather Carroll. Kyrene de la Estrella after-school programs who explained held its annual Meet the Teacher on July 27. their offerings; to the teachers themselves as they welcomed their new charges for the year. First-grade teacher C.A. Hartung embraced each child as if he or she was related to her. Maybe such enthusiasm and warmth still has the power to surprise me because my grade school was run by nuns. On the other hand, that warmth and enthusiasm also reminded me that schools in Ahwatukee, be they private or public, are filled with the energy and accomplishment of not just students but also faculty and staff as well. That’s why the Ahwatukee Foothills News will be working to capture that excitement every week throughout the school year in stories and photos. – Reach Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or That doesn’t mean we will be pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com Page 34

(Cheryl Haselhorst, AFN/Staff Photographer)

Activity in Ahwatukee classrooms is important news

POLITICS

Schmuck: More transparency in Prop 123 By Frank Schmuck AFN GUEST WRITER

I believe in investing in our children’s future and the economic growth of Arizona by providing students with the best education possible. Prop 123 was a step in the right direction, designed to increase educational funding to the classrooms and teachers by $3.5 billion in the next 10 years. But without requiring allocation outlines for school districts and individual schools, taxpayers ended up having funds spent on administrative raises and building improvements - not the intended classrooms and teachers. Instead, I propose specific guidelines and accounting transparency of funds spent, beginning with frontline teacher salary increases (to ensure teacher retention statewide) and classroom learning initiatives including updating technology and educational materials. The “wish list” each year for student supplies on “Meet the Teacher” night continues to grow. We are not supporting our front-line educators and students. That must change.

In 2015, the revenues from the Arizona State Lottery produced a record breaking $749.9 million. Education receives up to 55.5 percent of the lottery’s general fund total. We need accounting transparency to see where these funds are being spent. We need to be assured these funds have the highest impact on student learning. Georgia’s Hope Scholarship is an innovative program worth modeling; it drives lottery funds to vocational and secondary education with a series of requirements for recipients. Any student with a desire to obtain a secondary education should be encouraged and supported, without years of student loans jeopardizing their success. I founded “Tempe Dollars for Scholars” in 2006 and the Arizona Veterans Hall of Fame Society in 2007 as not-for-profit programs in our community and state helping hundreds of deserving students attend colleges/universities. I know these programs work as students from Compadre, Corona del Sol, Desert Vista, Marcos de Niza, McClintock, Mountain Pointe, and

Tempe high schools have gone on to do great things for our communities and state. When elected, I will propose the establishment of matching Employment Scholarship Accounts (ESA) as a viable way for students desiring to continue to technical and/or the state university systems. Individuals and employers could donate into individual student accounts for further education. Students would produce either equal scholarship or earned income that year to withdraw. It’s important for the student to have “skin in the game,” otherwise this becomes an opportunity for the funds to be spent without a serious commitment. That should not be the intent of any educational funds especially when they come from hard working residents and taxpayers. It is imperative that we explore these options and more, and that we promote vocational education as much as secondary education. Through inventive and strict use of funds, we could support those individuals who will become Arizona’s future in ways that will benefit them and us as a state.

Editor’s note The only local contest in the Aug. 30 primary election involves two Republicans battling over the nomination for state senator in Legislative District 18, which includes Ahwatukee. It pits incumbent Sen. Jeff Dial against challenger Frank Schmuck. The Ahwatukee Foothills News has asked both candidates to respond to three questions. Their response to the first question appears today. Their responses to the other two will run next Wednesday and Aug. 22 in the Ahwatukee Foothills News. Today’s question: “How do you propose to ensure the State’s obligation to adequately fund K-12 education? Additionally, what do you propose for adequately funding vocational programs for students who are not attending or cannot attend college?“

Dial: Prop 123 is the first step in the right direction for schools By Jeff Dial AFN GUEST WRITER

Arizona was hit harder than almost any other state during the Great Recession. We have made great strides in putting Arizona on a strong and stable fiscal path. We have a truly balanced budget for the first time in almost a decade and did so while also prioritizing public safety, child safety and welfare, K-12 education and higher education. We need to continue to ensure that K-12 funding is a priority in our budgets. Aside from funding alone, we need to ensure that the dollars actually make it into the classroom. The first step I propose is to re-examine and reform our funding formula, cutting out the red tape and increasing efficiency. As a member of the Senate Education

committee, I’m keenly aware of the problems facing our children. Last session, I sponsored a bill to provide tax credits to teachers who use their own money to buy classroom supplies. I also fought successfully for an accountability measure that ensures school districts must get approval for certain expenditures. These are the types of solutions that our students need. I think that it is crucial that our education system supports multiple pathways to success in our 21st Century economy. At the beginning of the session, I supported and urged my colleagues to not only reinvest in our career and technical education programs, but also to reform the system to ensure that we had high quality programs that would get kids certified or licensed in high wage jobs.

Being able to continue to support these programs and education system that supports every individual student is a priority of mine. I will continue to support the improvement and support of these programs. It’s important to adequately fund all higher education programs as different students have different paths. While Prop 123 was a step in the right direction for our students, we’re not done yet. From continuing to find ways to properly fund our schools to finding ways to cut down the bureaucracy, our students deserve the best. Education has been as issue of great importance to me and you’ll see it in my track record. I’ve supported schools in my district and ensured that they received proper funding during the budget process. I’ve sponsored

successful legislation that has directly benefited students across the state. I believe that my conservative, experienced perspective is essential for our district and students across the state.

Please recycle me.

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 Page 35

OPINION

Ahwatukee Farms jeopardizes flood control By Linda Swain AFN GUEST WRITER

The True Life Companies rolled out their plan for the Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club in last week’s AFN. They want to put 300 or more homes, community gardens, a restaurant, a farmer’s market, and a Montessori school in, of all places, a master-planned flood control. Not a good idea. Ahwatukee’s masterplan and Scottsdale’s Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt are the work of one man, landscape architect and land planner Wayne Smith. When preparing for the January Ahwatukee Town Hall on flooding, Smith said that our two golf courses are more important as flood controls for Ahwatukee than the Greenbelt is for Scottsdale. Here’s why: Ahwatukee is built on an alluvial fan located on the east side of South Mountain. The fan is the result of thousands of years of periodic flash floods. Homeowners on Mandan Street can testify to the devastating power of local flash floods. Prior to development in the early 1970s, the earliest historical aerial photos of Ahwatukee show a single ranch house, and later, one small cotton field. During the same period, farms and agriculture were flourishing due east in Tempe. This site was unsuitable for

much of anything due to the drainage. A map at the City of Phoenix Floodwater Management Department shows a thalweg slices through the Lakes Golf Club. A thalweg is a line drawn to join the lowest points along the entire length of a stream bed or valley in its downward slope, defining its deepest channel. The drop is about 60 feet from 41st Street to 48th Street. Handling the drainage was the biggest problem for Wayne Smith and Presley civil engineers. The Lakes and the Ahwatukee County Club golf courses were set aside to channel, retain, and detain storm water runoff. True Life’s plan will replace turf, swales, trees, and five cascading lakes with asphalt, concrete and hardscape. The net density will end up to be 4.25 or more homes per residential acre. True Life gambled when it bought the Lakes and became defendant in the ongoing lawsuit to enforce the CC&Rs that protect both Ahwatukee golf courses. True Life admits “The CC&R’s restrict the Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Course to use solely as a golf course” and then says “...the owner ... does not intend to operate the ... golf course as a golf course.” These words appear in the consent form True Life is mailing out to homeowners. That contradiction should raise a red

flag. True Life knows what’s required and refuses to comply. True Life’s campaign to change the CC&Rs is their response to a judge’s recent ruling, which says True Life is required to operate a golf course. The only way around the lawsuit is to attempt to get 51 percent of the homeowners to agree to change the CC&Rs. Why would we do that when the law is on our side? Not only does True Life want us to allow them to change the CC&Rs for their benefit, they also refuse to pay the $1.3-milliion tax penalty they owe the county assessor. True Life agreed to pay it when they bought the property, but True Life executive David Sabow recently said they intend to appeal it because they haven’t changed the use of the golf course. That should raise another red flag. Ahwatukee needs both masterplanned flood controls. A few ponds and a narrow channel angling through the development won’t protect the community as well as turf, swales, trees and five cascading lakes. We are much better off with 100 acres of open space, especially if it’s an operating golf course like the former No. 1 Lakes. True Life’s plan will turn 44th

Street into a kamikaze zone, with traffic generated by 300-plus homes, Mountain Pointe High School around the corner, the proposed Montessori School, a restaurant, and a farmer’s market. Wilson Gee. Pulte. True Life. Why would anyone take the word of developers who make money putting tract homes on any and all available infill land? Golf course operators wanted to buy the Lakes before it was closed; golf course operators want to buy it today. By enforcing the CC&Rs, the land is worth what it is worth as a golf course, not as developable land. When priced accordingly, it will sell quickly, and, most likely, at a premium. True Life’s job is to acquire, improve, and dispose of (sell) land to homebuilders like Pulte. If True Life collects the necessary 2,600 consent forms, all bets are off: what True Life is proposing today is a grand concept. What is actually built down the road is likely to be very different. Don’t be taken in by an attractive sounding name and a few artists renderings. Hold on to what little open space we have left. Keep our flood controls in place. Do not sign True Life’s consent form to change the golf course CC&Rs. –Linda Swain is a resident of Ahwatukee Lakes and a co-plaintiff in a lawsuit challenging the golf course’s closing.

Lakes resident/nurse says Farms concept threatens community’s health By Eileen Breslin AFN GUEST WRITER

For the third time in three years, a developer is trying to turn the Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club into a housing tract. Scottsdale developer The True Life Companies hired an Ahwatukee Foothills resident who writes in marketing materials “from a practical perspective” that we need to amend the CC&Rs. For Ahwatukee, nothing could be less practical, nor less true. TTLC is the third developer in three years to face losing its bid to cram 300 homes on the golf course. Judge John Hannah this summer ruled against TTLC and said the CC&Rs require that the golf course be operated as a golf course. So now TTLC wants ABM homeowners to change the rules after

Page 36

losing its case. TTLC purchased the property fully knowing about the lawsuit. Now, ignoring the judge’s ruling, TTLC says they have no intention of operating a golf course. Instead, TTLC is sending out pretty pictures to talk us into five years or more of construction, generations of trouble and inconvenience, and a further devaluing of our property and community. Evidently, TTLC thinks pretty pictures and smooth talking will get us to worse traffic, noise and air pollution; cut property values, raise taxes, overcrowd classrooms, and make us less safe from flooding - while they get a project worth $100 million. As a nurse of over 40 years, I have learned three lessons.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

It is important to 1) listen to patients and their needs, 2) ensure that patients make decisions based on evidence, and 3) that they exercise informed consent when facing health decisions. Informed consent means getting a clear understanding of all the benefits and the risks. Listened? Over the past few years, thousands of Ahwatukee residents have signed petitions affirming the CC&Rs that protect the golf courses. More property owners than ever are vested in the future of our community. In contrast, True Life hasheld no publicmeeting with community members. Without warning or dialog, TTLC last week sprang its marketing materials and agents on the community door to door, trying to bamboozle us to sign

away our rights first and ask questions later. Three times already, residents have spoken clearly and mobilized. We will do so again. Decisions based on evidence? Why would we trade 101 acres of open space for 30 acres sprinkled between houses squeezed on the landscape? Why would we trade five lakes already designed to control flood waters for only two without the same guarantees? Informed consent? TTLC projects rosy benefits to small businesses and others - but is silent on the risks from further erosion of land, flooding, increased air and noise pollution, worsened traffic. But it’s what TTLC is avoiding that really tells. >> See HEALTH on page 39

OPINION

Ahwatukee Farms proposal criticized and applauded Lakes developer makes ‘compelling case’ Our community has been waiting to hear what the future of the former Lakes golf course area holds and what the property owners plan to do with it. Finally, with the announcement of the community they are calling Ahwatukee Farms, we have some answers. It’s about time. The True Life Companies have certainly spent a lot of time on this project and make a compelling case as to adding a school and communitysupported agricultural feature. It’s a new, fresh idea that could bring a splash of badly needed energy to Ahwatukee. We haven’t seen a new community in the Ahwatukee Foothills area for years and certainly nothing like this. I still have some questions about traffic flow but this is a great opening step. I’m willing to listen more and I urge the rest of the community to do the same. -Sharon Gottlieb

Why ‘trust me’ doesn’t work anymore Just over 30 years ago, we purchased a lot in Ahwatukee and began building our new home. We were attracted by the recreational opportunities, including a country club golf course (ACC), an executive golf course, and a large tennis club with a clubhouse. We were tennis players and bikers but upon retirement took up golf, learning to play at the Lakes course. The developer pitched the recreational facilities as a lure to new buyers. We trusted that the facilities were here for the long haul. 1.Trust Me. Not long after moving here, the principal developer sold his last properties and left the area, taking with him the $10,000 deposits paid by charter members of ACC. Faced with paying another member fee, many dropped out, leading to the sale of the club to private interests and the gradual decline of ACC. The developer left town and so did the money. 2. Trust Me. Next the developer sold the tennis club and courts (now McDonalds, Hillside Spot, ACE Hardware etc.), leaving those of us who were members high and dry. Efforts to stop the sale failed and the developer sued those trying to save the

club at no small cost to tennis players. Ultimately a few new courts were built on ACC land (no land from the developer). No more clubhouse! 3. Trust Me. Wilson Gee bought ACC and the Lakes course in 2006 for $4 million (Rose Law Group Reporter, 7/10/15). He then sold the Lakes course to the current owner for $8.25 million (AFH News), netting an $8.25 million profit if he sells ACC for the $4 million he is reportedly asking. Gee claimed that the Lakes course was not profitable, a statement often repeated by the Gee and the current owners. Are we to trust Gee, who gained a multimillion dollar windfall? Or are we to trust the word of employees who told us and other golfers that the Lakes course, driving range, and restaurant were supporting the other Gee courses? Or our own observations that play at the Lakes was heavy before Gee decided to close the restaurant, not mow in the summer, and put virtually no money into course maintenance (based on employee comments and observation)? No doubt the $825,000 he saved per year since 2006 was better than the return for running the golf course. 4. Trust Me. In 2014, Pulte Homes made an offer to buy the Lakes course. They promptly conducted a “push poll” (AFN, May 2014) to try to influence residents to vote for their development. They hired a “local resident” to be the front man for the project and when the vote did not favor Pulte, they pulled out. So did the “local resident.” No doubt both Pulte and the “local resident” had only the best interest of the people of Ahwatukee in mind. 5. Trust Me. In February of this year, Gee was quoted in the Ahwatukee Foothills News saying, “I have heard loud and clear from Ahwatukee residents their passion for keeping the ACC as a golf course, and I agree with their thoughts on its importance to the area.” “In the coming weeks, I hope to announce a plan that will pick up where our earlier efforts to renovate the ACC left off,” he also was quoted. “We have always remained committed to golf in Ahwatukee, and the new plan will lay out specific improvements to the property – improvements that will reaffirm my commitment to a functional, long-term golf course at the Ahwatukee Country Club.” We are all waiting.

6. Trust Me. In 2015 True Life purchased the Lakes course even though it knew that the property is protected as a golf course. The company paid a price that would never have been paid for a golf property, knowing full well that it had plans for development. For months we have seen survey trucks and other vehicles on the property, but TL has not made efforts to get input from residents — at least anyone that we know of. Were others offered opportunities that were given to the Montessori school? Clearly, TL knows more about what we need than we do. Now we are treated to an elaborate spread in the AFN(Aug. 3, 2016) telling us that the property is to be developed with an “Urban Ag” theme (The Ahwatukee Farms Development). Interesting is the statement of TL regarding back taxes if the property changes from a golf course to a residential development. TL maintains, “In our minds, the use has not yet changed.” So the Lakes is still a golf course for tax purposes, yet a TL representative indicates that the Lakes will “not be a golf course again.” Seem contradictory? Also it should be noted that the Lakes is in Phoenix (as are all Ahwatukee residents) and any tax not paid comes out of our pocket. Having owned a farm, we are aware of the values of farm living. Interesting to us is the fact that TL is using a “farm living” angle to promote its proposal, but has done nothing to save the many mature trees on the property. While Gee basically destroyed the property, TL has done little to correct the situation. On the heels of a court ruling that the Lakes property must remain a golf course, TL threatens that if the property is not developed. it will remain an eyesore for years. So should we trust True Life, which no doubt will use its money to “sell us” rather than to listen to us. No doubt TL’s “local executive” will write articles, just as Pulte’s did before him. TL will promise us amenities, just as others have before. But what will happen to the amenities? Will they go the way of the tennis courts and the Lakes golf course when TL sells its last house? Fool me once? –Chuck and Cathie Corbin Editor’s note: The Corbins live in Ahwatukee Lakes.

Farms plan ‘makes sense for the community’ I must admit that while I have been skeptical of the True Life Companies and their plans for the former Lakes golf course, I was truly surprised by what they are proposing. This is not an attempt to cram as many houses and apartment onto the property as possible. Clearly, their company has thought a lot about what our community needs and the best way to use the property. Sure, in a perfect world, it might stay a golf course. But we live in a desert and times have changed. It would be better to commit to open spaces, trails, lakes and a brand new campus for the Montessori school than bickering over the fallow land. I’m glad that we waited to hear a plan that actually makes sense for the entire community and makes this property an asset once again. Let’s stop the fighting and work toward the future. -Stacey Camarda

Farms proposal called ‘reasonable’ and ‘novel’ I have just read the Aug. 3 edition of AFN. Wow, what a concept! Thank you for your continuing great coverage of the events at the Lakes and what the next steps are for the property. After hearing the owners demonized for more than a year, I was quite surprised to hear such a reasonable plan that doesn’t include any apartments or any of the wild accusations I’ve heard by some members of the community. What a novel idea to use some of the land as a new campus for a respected private school like Desert Garden Montessori School! Education is what makes Ahwatukee a special and desirable place to live and this is just the next step. I look forward to learning what the timeline of the project will be. I do hope the AFN will continue to cover this story fairly and not be misled by those standing in the way of progress. –Dave Young

Please recycle me.

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 Page 37

City Councilman Sal DiCiccio discusses Ahwatukee Farms’ impact By Sal DiCiccio AFN GUEST WRITER

The public is being misled by True Life and the underlying property owner. On several occasions, True Life and the owner have lied to the residents surrounding the Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club, so why should we trust them now? It is my obligation to make sure that I protect the quality of life in our community, provide the facts and consider the impact of any decision on other areas of our community. Those other areas would include Ahwatukee Country Club, Foothills and Club West golf courses. Any decision made on the Lakes property could and would set a precedent for those other areas. That said, I am not surprised by True Life’s development plan. This is what developers do. They promise a “farm” or a “school,” but in reality, they are paving the way for highdensity development. And if they succeed at the Lakes, it will open the floodgates to high-density development in all of our golf courses and in particular Ahwatukee Country Club.

We are being told that the Lakes is going to be turned into some type of agricultural setting. This could not be further from the truth. The same developers that purposely shut down the golf course and created an environmental hazard are coming out with a plan to save our community? The truth is they purposely neglected maintaining the golf course in order to create a wasteland so that the surrounding residents will be put in a desperate situation. True Life is one of the parties that created this blight to exact concessions from neighbors. That is not what a good neighbor does. True Life owes $1.4 million in back taxes which could go towards our schools and other vital services for our community. That is not what a good neighbor does. True Life had multiple code enforcement violations because of the way they managed the Lakes property. That is not what a good neighbor does. You and your family take care of your property and pay your taxes. Why should they be exempt from that basic requirement? Do not buy into the argument that these

developers don’t have money. The amount of money True Life spends every month on public relations and a lobbyist could have easily kept this golf course watered and clean. Let’s lay out the facts about the developer’s proposal and the impact of development on this property: Fact One: The developers want to triple the density that would normally be allowed on this property. Fact Two: The Lakes golf course was purposely designed to curb flood waters from negatively impacting surrounding properties. We recently saw many homes surrounding the Lakes property flooded. Imagine what would happen if this property, this open space and flood plain were developed. These developers live in areas that would never allow this type of density to come into their neighborhood. Nor would their neighborhood ever allow a critical flood plain to be compromised by high- density development putting existing homes at risk. Fact Three: The Ahwatukee Lakes was purposely designed to provide an open space for our community. The open space was provided to the original developer

in exchange for higher density at other locations. Fact Four: Ahwatukee Country Club has over 2,000 high-density units zoned on that property. If it is developed, we are looking at the equivalent to five high-rise apartment complexes on one single parcel of land. Regardless of the promises these developers make, nothing will stop them or anyone in the future from coming in and using the Lakes as precedent. If True Life succeeds, they will have created a model for all developers: neglect a property until it becomes a blight and an environmental hazard, then use strongarm tactics on desperate residents, forcing them to accept anything to make the blight go away, even if that means high-density housing. That means Ahwatukee Country Club, Foothills and Club West golf courses would all have higher density on their properties as well. For these reasons, I caution residents not to sign anything until it has been reviewed by an attorney. This plan has nothing to do with agriculture. This is all about maximizing density and profits. –Sal DiCiccio is the city councilman for Phoenix’s Council District 6, which includes Ahwatukee.

Back to school: Homeless children face unique struggles in class By Michael T. Hughes AFN GUEST WRITER

Returning to school is an exhilarating time for children, but for the 29,537 homeless students in Arizona, this time of year can be a daunting experience. A New Leaf has been helping vulnerable children for 45 years, and A New Leaf’s work with homeless students in the East Valley has given us insight into their unique challenges and ways to improve their lives. For children living in emergency shelter, temporary housing, or on the streets, the uncertainty of living arrangements can elicit deep anxiety. Worries about hunger,

clothing and shame dominate the lives of young children and youth whose families are in transition. Frequent isolation leads to severe emotional and behavioral issues—obstacles that would be crushing for adults. Yet our state’s homeless students are expected to function in school alongside their peers. Nationwide, the country is facing a crisis. The number of homeless children in public schools has doubled since before the recession, according to the U.S. Department of Education. Many families continue to struggle financially even as the economy recovers from the housing

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collapse of 2008-2009. And school costs continue to rise: The cost of sending a child back to school is up to $673 for the average family, says the National Retail Federation, an increase of 54.8 percent over the last 10 years. For educators, the impact is felt across the system as public schools work to address the financial and emotional needs of homeless children. Teachers find themselves striving not only to help children learn but also to clothe them, feed them, keep them clean, and counsel them through stress and trauma—a flurry of activities that can interfere with classroom progress. Children move with their families to multiple locations as they seek shelter. And every time children move, they fall further behind; it takes children an average of 4 to 6 months to recover academically after changing schools. At A New Leaf’s East Valley family homeless shelter and after school programs, the priority is to keep children in the same school, focusing on transportation, peer support and outreach with the district. Staying in the same school helps a child find stability in a chaotic situation with a better chance of academic success. The federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act guarantees

protections such as a student’s right to enroll in school even without a permanent address. This law is the cornerstone for ensuring equal access to education for children who are homeless in our state. But there is more we can do: •Expand the East Valley’s network of stabilized housing to provide a secure home environment for children as they go to school. •Invest in programs that help homeless parents with the significant costs of education, especially transportation, school-required clothing or supplies, and activities like driver’s education or extracurricular events. •Mobilize community volunteers to tutor homeless students and provide a helping hand to struggling families. •Empower teachers as advocates to understand the issues around homelessness and the unique needs of this at-risk population. As a community, all of us can help in the safety, nourishment and progress of our homeless students. While homelessness is a formidable challenge, helping a young person in need today is an investment for our future—and the right investment for Arizona. – Michael T. Hughes is CEO of A New Leaf

OPINION

Are you tired of not having your voice heard on Ahwatukee issues? By Chad Blostone AFN GUEST WRITER

Freeways, Chandler Boulevard road construction, new construction projects are all headed to Ahwatukee. And believe it or not, your voice counts, but only if you make it heard. I’m Chad Blostone and I am your volunteer chairman of the Ahwatukee Foothills Village Planning Committee. My job is to hear from the residents of Ahwatukee about these new projects and then make recommendations to Mayor Greg Stanton and the rest of the City Council. I am just one person, so if you are a really trusting individual, please sit back and do nothing. But if you care about our community and want to make sure our elected officials hear our collective voice, then it’s time to get off the couch, get out of the gym, leave the Starbucks or get off the hiking trail early and head to a very important community meeting that will have long term-ramifications for all of us. On Aug. 22 at 6 p.m. the AhwatukeeFoothills Village Planning Committee will meet at the Pecos Park Community Center,

17010 S. 48th St. Ahwatukee. The meeting will give those interested in learning more about our community, or for those wishing to voice their concerns to project managers and city staff, the opportunity to do so. Let’s not forget ADOT is about to build a superhighway right through the middle of our little community. Don’t you want to know how it will affect you? What about the idea of connecting Chandler Boulevard all the way to the Foothills Reserve or the building of a new construction project you might think is ugly? Unless you come out, you won’t be able to change anything. And you will be imposing a censor on yourself at one of the most critical planning junctures in our young history as a community. So I implore you, I beg you, please join us on Aug. 22 as the Ahwatukee-Foothills Village Planning Committee meets at the Pecos Park Community Center. It’s time the politicians heard from the people. This is your opportunity. Are you in? –Chad Blostone is the chairman of the Ahwatukee Foothills Village Planning Committee.

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TTLC is avoiding paying $1.4 million in taxes that it owes on the golf course property – leaving it to us to cover the costs of police and fire, streets and roads, education and infrastructure. And incredibly, its marketing materials completely ignore how its actions have undercut hundreds of senior citizens, making them less secure in their homes in retirement. These residents have faced years of a corroded landscape, intentionally perpetrated to wear them down and coerce them into agreement, after watching the value of their home investment decline because developers have left the golf course in ruin. Facing community outrage at his bid as first developer, Wilson Gee withdrew and tried to sell the property to the Pulte Corporation. Facing similar opposition, Pulte gave up after Linda Swain and I filed suit, and after an analysis showed that the golf course could be profitable once again. Instead, the property went back to Gee, who re-sold it to TTLC. This summer, Judge Hannah ruled

forcefully against TTLC, stating the CC&Rs mandate the golf course be operated as a golf course. The legal and economic processes in motion will restore the golf course and remove the blight much faster than developers can build, if we simply refuse to sign our rights away. The reality is: When a $100 million project is on the line, desperate developers may engage in desperate measures. The fact is: We, the residents of Ahwatukee, are now in a stronger position than ever because we have had the good sense to pull together. All we have to do is don’t give away our consent. Eileen Breslin, a nurse, has owned a home in Ahwatukee for 12 years. She is co-plaintiff, with Linda Swain, in the lawsuit Superior Court Judge John Hannah recently decided against True Life Companies. –Eileen Breslin, a nurse, has owned a home in Ahwatukee for 12 years. She is co-plaintiff with Linda Swain in the lawsuit against True Life Companies.

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LETTERS

Readers dispute Pecos Road turn-lane letter, rabbi’s column Pecos-40th Street lane design makes sense I will grant you that very little traffic on 40th Street goes southbound at Pecos Road. However, the vast majority turns left onto Pecos eastbound (bound for I-10 or Loop 202). A lesser number of vehicles turn right, to Pecos westbound. And yes, you may have to wait for the solid green to go westbound on Pecos behind one or more vehicles going south on 40th Street into the reservation. If there are two or more left turn lanes at an intersection, I don’t think traffic engineers would have those lanes do anything but left turns. So I don’t see anything changing at this intersection. “Right on red after a stop” is something you can do, if you are the first car. It doesn’t mean you are guaranteed to be able to do it. And I think the majority of the traffic (40th south to Pecos east) takes precedence. I hate ADOT as much as the next guy (think the freeway debacle). But in this case, they did it properly. Or is

already have very strict gun controls. He goes on to scold Arizona residents because “we accept that our representatives in Congress take massive amounts of money from the NRA.” Shapiro may not like the fact that most of our elected representatives aren’t clamoring for more and more gun restrictions on honest citizens, but there are plenty of good reasons they aren’t, none of which involve the NRA. Here are just a few: 1) Even if guns were made completely illegal, people still have many other ways to commit suicide and gangs and drug dealers will always be able to obtain their guns on the black market. 2) Gun control advocates use each mass shooting as an excuse to demand new gun restrictions, yet they cannot point to a single mass shooting that any of their proposed restrictions would have prevented. 3) Every mass shooting that has taken place over the past 50 years, with the exception of Tucson in 2011, has occurred in a so-called “gun-free zone” where law-abiding citizens are

this intersection under city of Phoenix jurisdiction? Well, I still have no love for ADOT. -John Adkins

Rabbi’s column on gun violence was misleading I take objection to some misleading comments made about gun violence by Rabbi Dean Shapiro in his guest editorial entitled “In the wake of massacres: our brothers’ blood cries out,” published in the 8/3/16 edition. Shapiro cites the Centers for Disease Control statistic that there were 33,636 deaths by firearms in 2013. What he fails to mention is that almost two thirds of those deaths were suicides and thousands more were the result of justifiable shootings by police and civilians protecting themselves from violent criminal attack. Much of the remainder is comprised of gang and drug-related shooting deaths in big cities like Chicago, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., which

prohibited from having firearms. 4) Contrary to Shapiro’s ludicrous claim that “our whole nation is drenched in blood,” FBI crime statistics show the number of gun homicides peaked in 1993 and has declined almost 50 percent since then; it now hovers near 40-year lows. If the goal is to mitigate mass shootings, the most logical step to take would be to eliminate “gun-free zones,” which self-defense expert Massad Ayoob once referred to as “hunting preserves for psychopathic murderers.” Additional gun laws accomplish nothing except to make it more difficult for law-abiding citizens to protect themselves. -Reid Lusk

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Business

Business, technology and personal finance

AHWATUKEE CORNERSTONE COMPANY

Family made Original Burrito Company a dream come true – since 1982 By Shelley Gillespie Tommy Martinez had always dreamed of opening a family burrito restaurant. In 1982, Martinez and his sister, Margaret DeLaCruz, decided to make that dream a reality. When they presented their business plan to the owners of Ahwatukee Plaza on the southwest corner of Elliot Road and 51st Street, their dream almost became a nightmare: The plaza owners found their plan appealing, but said that without two years of funding to back Martinez, the proposed business was undercapitalized. But one of the owners convinced his partners to give the fledgling restaurateurs a break. He argued that no one was serving burritos in those days, with hamburger and hot dog fast food restaurants predominating, and that Martinez’s concept was original. The Burrito Company opened on Elliot Road – in the spot where a Walgreens now exists – and near Ahwatukee’s first supermarket, Alpha Beta. “From day one, our business was never in the red,” said Martinez, 73. “We started with a very simple menu. It was basically everything we ate at home.” They opened with six tables. Their 14item menu offered food that appealed to the construction workers who were helping to build Ahwatukee. Word of the burritos’ quality and reasonable prices spread, and young families also found the restaurant’s

(Shelley Gillespie/Special to AFN)

AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Monica DelaCruz, left, manager, and her mom Margaret DeLaCruz, co-founder of The Original Burrito Company, work together.

(Shelley Gillespie/Special to AFN)

recipes appealing. A burrito cost $2.25 his inherent design skills to create an and huevos con chorizo was $1.75 then, eye-catching look inside the restaurant with breakfast available all day. with his own paintings of chili peppers, a The venture was so successful, it hand-painted menu on the wall, a handquickly spawned drawn menu for competitors. The Original Burrito Company the tables, and So Martinez desert imagery on Where: 4949 E. Elliot Road, Ahwatukee. and DeLaCruz the outside and Contact: 480-893-3837. rechristened the inside walls. Hours: 6:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; restaurant in 1985 DeLaCruz, 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday; as The Original 66, who lived in and 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. Burrito Company. Ahwatukee at the Before starting the restaurant, Martinez time, took a day job and managed the was a technical graphic designer for restaurant in the evenings while Martinez Honeywell working in Phoenix. He used was day manager. Overhead was low with the family pitching in. Two other sisters, Patricia and Helen, and their mother, Jesus, also volunteered. Early on, they used local vendors for the meats, produce, tortillas and other supplies. They made food from scratch daily. They cut their own nopales (prickly pear leaves), cooked carnitas, and prepared their own tamales, salsas and guacamole. By 1985, they received popular acclaim with their green chili burro, winning a “best of” award in a competition. After five years, the menu grew to 37 items and eventually to its current listing of 52 dishes. After 10 years, the demand necessitated finding a local vendor for their tamales. They now cook 75-100 pounds of chorizo in a week. The Original Burrito Company has been a strong supporter of community events, sports and charities. In 1988, the Tommy Martinez, co-founder, shows about a half day's supply of tortillas for The Original Burrito restaurant took the record (what record? Company.

Guinness? We need to source) for building the “World’s Longest Burrito.” The family shared the 393-foot behemoth burrito, with proceeds going to charity. “Our secret to success is that people like good, traditional food,” Martinez said. “Provide good service and atmosphere, and it all becomes genuine comfort food.” Although they have made small changes through the years, one of the biggest was in the location. In 2010, the plaza owners decided to revamp and notified many of the tenants that they would need to move. Just when Martinez and DeLaCruz were deciding what to do, one of the plaza owners came to them and offered them the then-vacant Kentucky Fried Chicken location in the 49000 block of Elliot Road. They jumped at the opportunity since the move would be minimal. The location allows them an outside patio where patrons may bring their pets. Another, more recent change is the decision to open on Sundays, due to popular demand. The many regular customers they’ve acquired through the years are full of advice about what to order. “I’ve been eating here since they opened,” said Elena Wortman. “I like the green chili burritos and barbacoa beef best, but everything is really good. It’s healthier because there’s no lard in the beans.” “I’ve been coming here for 33 years,” added Xavier Lepe. “They’re the best. I get a different thing every time. I love it.” Gene Lutz says the food at The Original Burrito Company is very authentic. “It’s the best salsa in town. I love the tacos and enchiladas,” he added. Since 1982, prices have, of course, increased – due to labor, utilities, rent and food costs. The burrito that cost $2.25 when the restaurant opened is now $4.49. But inflation can be kept at bay on “Taco Tuesday,” when a 99-cent street taco offering – two corn tortillas filled with beef, chicken or pork – is available all day. “People eat well here. For $7 on any day you can get a full meal including a drink,” DeLaCruz said. The family’s next two generations are now involved in the restaurant’s operations. DeLaCruz’s daughter Monica, 43, manages the restaurant, her granddaughter Nina, 22, works at the counter, and grandson Diego, 11, already helps with small chores.

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 Page 41

Shampooch Dog Spaw pampers pets, gives employees new opportunities By Paul Maryniak

Faylene Spallek has opened the Shampooch Dog Spaw at 4206 Chandler Blvd. Here she gives ‘Cheeto’ a trim.

names, Spallek said. “All three of us came up with a list we could choose from,” she recalled. “We just came up with a bunch of names and decided on a play on words.”

(Special to AFN)

Shampooch Dog Spaw is more than just another Ahwatukee business that pampers and grooms pets. It’s the culmination of two dreams that its owners, Pam and Dennis Karp of Ahwatukee, have long held. First, they wanted their daughter Faylene Spallek to work for them. Second, they hope to use the spa to train and employ some of the developmentally challenged people they care for with their other business, Transitions for the Developmentally Disabled. Spallek, who had worked for 16 years administering chemotherapy to cancerstricken pets, also thinks the newly opened business on 4206 E. Chandler Blvd. is a perfect fit for her. “They’ve always wanted me to work for them,” she said of her mom and stepdad. “I have always loved animals.” Open since 2004, Transitions provides day programs and job placement aimed at enabling people with developmental disabilities to integrate into the community. Many of the Karps’ 180 clients come to them through a contract Transitions has with the state. Besides running programs for clients, the Karps also manage three schools and seven group homes that serve clients. They had been talking with Spallek for a while about a pet spa when they finally decided to do it. One of the first things they did besides start the paperwork was gather around the dinner table one evening and toss out

(Cheryl Haselhorsrt/AFN Staff Photographer)

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS EDITOR

Pamela and Dennis Karp envision hiring some developmentally challenged people to work at Shampooch Dog Spaw.

Page 42

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

Faylene said she loves her new responsibilities because “I wanted to do something like pampering rather than poking animals with needles.” And she’s a big fan of animals. Besides volunteering to foster one dog or cat a month rescued from death row at a shelter, she cares four pit bulls, four cats, some desert tortoises and a turtle. “I have quite a household,” said the mother of three sons, ages 13 to 18. Mom said she’s proud of the way Spallek has taken to her new responsibilities. “She’s great with animals,” Pam Karp said. “My husband calls her the dog whisperer. When we have an issue with our dogs, we call her. But what’s really been a pleasant surprise is what a good business person she is. It’s surprising and a wonder to see.” The most frustrating part about opening the spa was the city bureaucracy, which kept them waiting for more than three months for approval to put up a sign, Pam Karp said. “We wanted to open three months ago,” she said, adding that getting an occupancy permit also dragged on for a while. “We didn’t want to start advertising until we had a sign, so it set us back a bit.” Then there was the effort needed to set up shop—which cost Pam Karp three

herniated discs. She only recently has managed to recover enough to drive a car. Despite those hassles, the “Spaw” is now in full operation. Spallek’s sole employee, Francine Eroenlein, is a groomer with 30 years of experience. And they offer a variety of services, from shampooing and trims to hair dyeing and even nail painting. They accept cats, dogs and even ferrets, Spallek said. She and her parents also have big plans. Because Spallek is a licensed veterinarian assistant, she hopes to soon be able to offer vaccinations. And the Karps envision using the business to employ some of their clients to make treats that they eventually would sell on the open market.

Shampooch Dog Spaw Located at: 4206 E Chandler Blvd #36, Ahwatukee. Open: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tue.-Sat. Call: 480-759-1699 Internet: Web site under development, but they’re on Facebook, Yelp and Google+.

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF

having ice lots of ice.” Nor is the couple alone in the work. “This is a family business, so we all rotate positions including our young children at home. Michelle grew up with her grandmother and mother who were entrepreneurs, so it was in our blood to work hard for this business,” Kirk said. The Davises got interested in Kona Ice while their son Rashaan was working at a Minnesota zoo. “Every day after work, he would tell us about Kona Ice,” Kirk Davis said. “He talked about how many people were in line buying the shaved ice and how much they enjoyed it. I did some research and found that they were one of the top franchise models to invest in.” Equally appealing was the Kona company’s philanthropic commitment to the communities it serves. “Kona Ice is a nationwide brand that focuses on giving back to the community, and it really drew us to the model,” Kirk said. “My wife Michele is a social worker and that thought is what sold her on our new venture.”

(Special to AFN)

Kirk and Michelle Davis of Ahwatukee follow the motto for their new franchise business: “Keep it Clean. Keep It Seen.” They own a Kona Ice truck and since their official “opening” in June, it’s the “seen” part of that motto that has them and their family hopping. “We try to leave the house by 8 a.m. and return by 10 p.m.,” Kirk Davis said. “We are new to the community and want to make sure that our truck is seen. With school back in session, we won’t be out as late as we have been.” Not that the “clean” part is easy either. “On average, it takes about two hours a day to clean the truck,” he said. “The truck needs to be cleaned inside and out.” “There is a list to follow to maintain its cleanliness inside and out. It takes a lot of work,” Kirk added. “We need to keep up with inventory of cups, spoons, napkins and other products. We maintain the levels of the flavors and refill the popular flavors often such as Tiger Blood and Island Rush, which seems to be the popular in Ahwatukee. Most important is

The Davis family shows off their new Kona Icemobile.

Now Open and Ready to Pamper Your Furry Friend!

(Special to AFN)

Ahwatukee couple isn’t just cruising with their Kona Ice truck

Taking a break from tending to their new Kona Ice truck are, from left: Kirk Davis, Michelle Davis and son Rashaan Davis, all of Ahwatukee.

The Davis family is continuing the mobile franchise’s tradition of donating thousands of dollars each year to local school groups, teams and community organizations. As they book events with these groups, they pledge to give back a percentage of the proceeds from each stop. Nationwide, Kona Ice has donated more than $35 million to communitybased organizations since 2007. The philanthropy also helps spur their efforts to become more visible in the community. “We’ve had meetings with Kyrene School District officials and served them Konas, and recently we attended Altadeña Middle School for Meet the Teacher Night,” Kirk Davis said. “Principal James Martin also had us back the next day for his staff appreciation day. “We are now getting around to marketing the schools once again since they’re back in,” Kirk continued. “We’re working on building relationships with

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the schools and are hopeful they will be a big part of Kona, as they are in other cities in Arizona. We also will continue to make connections with different athletic clubs, youth clubs and other programs. “ He added, “Our calendar for the fall is filling up with youth football, birthdays and some employee appreciation events.” Besides making the rounds at schools, they also use the truck a lot instead of their car to get around Ahwatukee. And they have their eyes on developing other opportunities for their business as well. “We would like to develop a relationship with local apartments complexes and raise some money for programs they may have or items they may need in their areas,” Kirk said.

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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 Page 43

Zia’s new store in Mesa is a dream come true for owner

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

When Brian Faber was a teen, his mother dropped him off at the Zia Record Exchange store on Mill Avenue to peruse cassettes. It didn’t exactly go as planned.

“I was told I wasn’t cool enough to buy something,” Faber said. He now serves as general manager and co-owner of Zia Record Exchange, and is celebrating the opening of a store at 1302 S. Gilbert Road in Mesa. “We believe that everyone is cool enough to buy something,” he said. “It’s not like back then when you had to pass some test.” The Mesa location joins eight other Zia Record Exchange stores, which include two in Las Vegas. The building features new products and used movies, vinyl, CDs, books and even game consoles and instruments. Pop culture items, like obscure Hello Kitty pieces and action figures, also are hits.

“One of the things we’ve gotten into over the years are used systems and peripherals,” he said. “People can come in during the summertime and find really affordable entertainment under $10 or even $5. They can get an extra controller or a game to play on a lonely summer night. “What’s been exciting for us is getting books into the stores and creating these book sections. On the first day, there were three or four guys sitting on the floor reading graphic novels and looking at comic books and stuff like that. We also keep the kids and family sections together.” The store in Mesa South Shopping Center continues Zia’s established tradition of offering cash and store credit over the trade counter. “The interesting thing about the store is customers can bring in any kind of entertainment item and get store credit or cash. We even take board games and

old figurines. Maybe the customer is ready to move on and get something new, or they have to pay a bill or they just want a good night out.” Zia’s staff may even take goodies not related to entertainment. “We bought a NASCAR tire,” Faber said with a laugh. “We’re an entertainment music store, but someone bought it. We like to try and really engage the customers.” The 11,000-square-foot building gives Zia Record Exchange the room to grow its product lines. “But I think we’ve done a really good job of representing a lot of the product,” Faber said. “This store carries the second or third most product in the entire chain. A lot of the people who work here and the customers who come in get that full Zia experience. It bodes

(Special to AFN)

Zia Record Exchange's new 11,000-square-foot building in Mesa has room to grow.

well for this area and this store.” For Faber, this career and Zia’s stores are bucket-list items, he said. “This is a dream come true,” he said. “Each time we open a new store, we really put our hearts into it. This new location just off the freeway makes us accessible to more of the East Valley than ever before.” Zia Records is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more information, call 480-668-3749 or visit ziarecords.com. – Contact Christina Fuoco-Karasinski at 480898-5612 or christina@timespublications.com.

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

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Two Ahwatukee home sales pass $1-million mark By Paul Maryniak AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS EDITOR

Two houses in Ahwatukee each sold in the last five weeks for more than $1 million – well above what the real estate website zillow.com says is the median price for houses in the community. The two two-story homes, both around 5,800 square feet, also are the third and fourth million-plus houses sold in Ahwatukee since June 1. The more pricey of the two, at 11803 S. Tuzigoot Court in ZIP code 85048,

is an 8-year-old home that sold for $1,435,000. The other, at 14251 S. 14th St. in ZIP code 85044, is a 15-year-old residence that went for $1,225,000. Zillow currently predicts on its website that home values in Ahwatukee will increase 1.5 percent over the next year – more than half the 2.8 percent increase in home values predicted for Phoenix as a whole. The 14th Street home is 381 percent above the median value for Ahwatukee houses, with the other 417 percent

above that median. Sales price histories of the two homes also differ wildly. The 14th Street home first sold when new in 2000 for just a little under its 2016 price. In 2006, it sold for $1.9 million, but four years later – in the depths of the recession – it went for what now seems like a bargain price of $1 million. The sold price for the Tuzigoot property is about four times the $383,600 that it first sold >> See MILLIONS on page RE 2

3,290 sq.ft., 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Updated TW Lewis semi-custom in Shadowridge. Listed for $518,500

See Page 106 See Page

Mike Mendoza

SPOTLIGHT home

4 bd / 2ba, 1,890 sq. ft., 3 car garage. Mountain Ranch Estates

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SeeSee Page 106 Page

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See SeePage Page106

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Beautiful remodeled hillside home. 4 br, 2.5 ba with 2,161 sq. ft. Eat-in kitchen features cherry cabinetry, stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. Master suite with travertine shower and flooring. Upgraded 17" tile, birch Pergo flooring, Plantation shutters and shade screens. Resort-style backyard with lush landscaping, flagstone, built-in DCS grill, Kiva plus sparkling pool and spa with Kool deck.

Listed for $415,000

Here’s why the short sale process often makes no common sense By Stacey Lykins AFN GUEST WRITER

Just when you think you have done enough short sales to have figured out the process, a lender you have never dealt with throws you a curve ball. Currently, we have a home listed in Ahwautkee Foothills and have an approved short sale price. After the sixmonth process it took to get an approval, the original buyer walked away from the transaction. So, we gave the lender a new offer that was $10,000 higher than the previously approved short sale and they turned it down. What? That makes no sense at all, given the lender nets $10,000 more. Well, tell that to the lender. The lender now thinks the property is worth more and the new offer is being put on hold, so they can put the home in their subsidiaries auction process.

Never mind that they tried this auction process once before to no avail and that is how we arrived at the approval on the previous offer. Unfortunately, the lender is the driving force and without their approval we cannot sell the property. So, now we have to place the property on the auction website, hold open houses and change the verbiage in MLS to reflect this mandated process. Lots of additional work for a second time. Seems futile, unless you are not doing the work and dictating the process. As we looked deeper into this process, it became obvious that common sense is void and additional revenue to the lender a possible motive. The auction site is owned by the lender, who then stands to profit from the 5 percent premium charged to a buyer for making an offer. That is assuming another buyer would be willing to pay more than our current marketvalue offer.

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>> From page RE 1

for in 2006. “These two most recent sales in Ahwatukee Foothills are good for our market,” said Associate Broker Stacey Lykins, “because it demonstrates that we have luxury buyers in the area.” She said there are 22 properties in Ahwatukee currently priced over $1 million, and added that Ahwatukee has averaged about two sales of milliondollar-plus homes each month so far in 2016. She said people selling their luxury homes are still facing a buyer’s market both in Ahwatukee and throughout the Valley, because “buyers have a pretty big selection of homes from which to choose.” “As with any buyers’ market, sellers should expect to get less than asking price on their home, unless it’s priced very well and has broad appeal, is located in a desirable location with views, and has privacy and other intangibles that are important to the luxury buyer.”

FOR A CLOSER LOOK AT THESE TWO HOMES, SEE PAGES 5, 7-8

– Associate Broker Stacey Lykins has been an Ahwatukee resident for 25 years and works for West USA. Reach her at 602-616-9971, S.Lykins@LykinsProperties.com or www. LykinsProperties.com.

Your newspaper. Please recycle me.

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The reserve bid set by the lender is $1,500 or .005 percent higher than the current offer price. Seems like a lot of time and effort for $1,500 more than the approved short sale price. Hardly seems worth the extra effort and time until you realize the time, money and effort comes from the listing agent, who does not even work for the lender. The lender is now dictating the agent’s job and responsibilities and they do not employee me. The seller of the home signed my listing agreement, not the lender. So, if I am the lender, why not make the listing agent jump through all these additional hoops? Does not cost them a thing… So, if you are lender, not doing any of the work, not stressing daily about your home selling or buying your dream home, then why not? They have nothing to lose! It looks like it’s just numbers on a page to them. It is just everyone else who is trying to make a living by selling a house and the people who might buy the home whose lives are put on hold for another 60 days. So, my conclusion still remains the same: common sense is lacking in the short sale process.

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Page 2 REAL ESTATE | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

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KELLER WILLIAMS® REALTY

Single-story homes are regaining in popularity By Andy Warren AFN GUEST WRITER

What was old is new again in the real estate market, as homebuyers are increasingly seeking singlestory homes. According to the National Association of Home Builders and U.S. Census information, 67 percent of newly constructed homes in 1973 were single-story – or ranch-style – homes. That number dropped to 43 percent in 2006, but has reversed course and is on the rise again. These classic American icons first became popular in the 1950s and ‘60s, when suburban growth exploded across the United States. The homes were easy to build and affordable.

But, as suburbia expanded and interest grew in larger, bi- and tri-level homes, the single-story home began to lose its luster. Who or what is fueling the recent uptick in interest? Actually, there isn’t a single answer. Here are several reasons homebuyers are returning to one-story homes: Boomer- and Family-Friendly As baby boomers inch toward retirement, many are looking to age in place and don’t want to worry about running up and down stairs. A study by the 50+ Housing Council of NAHB and MetLife Mature Market Institute found that approximately 90 percent of homeowners 45 and older say they want to age in place in their existing home.

Additionally, younger buyers with small children, or couples planning to become parents, prefer to avoid worrying about the dangers associated with stairs and balconies. Style Today’s one-level homes are not the same as their mid-century counterparts. The ‘50s ranch was boxy and modest, with rectangular layouts and long, narrow hallways. Today, homebuilders have opened up the floor plans and included larger windows and higher ceilings. In essence, the new single-level homes offer the best of both worlds – nostalgia and contemporary appeal.

Affordability Single-story homes typically are considered less expensive to operate than comparibly sized two-story homes because they can require less energy to heat or cool, depending on the quality of construction, square footage and layout. In warmer climates like Arizona, this is particularly important to buyers. Whether for reasons of practicality, affordablitiy or stylishness, American families are falling in love all over again with the single-story home. –Andy Warren is president of Arizona homebuilder Maracay Homes, a member of the TRI Pointe Group, and serves on the board of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council. Warren is also a member of Greater Phoenix Leadership and an active member of the Urban Land Institute. Information: www.maracayhomes.com.

10 questions to ask when you’re buying a house By Lisa Johnson Mandell REALTOR.COM

We’ve pulled together a checklist of some of the most important initial questions to ask when buying a home. What is the home’s sales history? When was the last time the house sold, and how much did the current owners pay for it? This is essential intel, and you don’t even have to ask the seller or your real estate agent about it, because it’s posted on every MLS listing. All you have to do is scroll down to find it. But make sure you know it. When buying a home, the previous sale price will give you a sense of what the sellers might expect you to pay. But keep in mind that a home’s true market value is based more on what comparable homes are selling for now rather than what it went for in the past. Sales history will also show you whether the home’s price has been trending up or down over time, which can help you hone your negotiating stance. Any major renovations or additions? If they’ve overhauled the kitchen, added a bedroom, or finished the basement, you’ll want to know that — and, ideally, see receipts from contractors to get a sense of what they paid for these upgrades. This will give you a ballpark notion of how much money they’ve sunk into the home — and what they hope to get out. That said, don’t assume you have to fork over as much cash as they put in; home improvements generally reap only a 64 percent return on average. And that return on investment varies widely based on which renovation is done.

How much are the property taxes? Property tax history is also typically available right on the listing detail page. If you can’t find it, ask the seller. You’ll want to find out what previous owners paid, but understand that the property tax, since it’s based on a percentage of the value of the house, will probably be affected by your purchase price. This could be a huge additional expense, and you’ll need to budget for that when putting together your offer. What are maintenance/utility costs? Is there any type of homeowners association fee? Find out. Also learn what kind of power the house uses, be it gas, oil, electric, or a combination, and ask what the average monthly bill for each is. Also inquire about water, waste removal, and any other utility costs that are applicable. Has there ever been a broken pipe? This may sound trivial (not to mention unpleasant), but according to the Insurance Information Institute, broken pipes account for an estimated 22 percent of all home insurance losses. If the homeowner doesn’t ‘fess up, a good home inspector can probably find evidence of either one of these situations, so you might want to put these on your list of questions to ask your inspector, too. How old is the roof? The 2015 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of Realtors® says the national median cost of an asphalt roofing replacement is about $7,600. It would be good to know

how soon you might need to lay out that substantial amount of cash. Any past pest infestations? If there was an infestation, when were pest control procedures undertaken? No, this won’t necessarily mean the house

is pest-free at the time you’re buying it, but it’s a good starting point to know the history. Many buyers require that termite treatment be included in the price; it’s easiest to tent for pest removal when the >> See QUESTIONS on page RE 4

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Page 3

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$599,999 5 bd/3.5 ba, 2.5 car garage, 3,694 sq. ft. WOW! Masterpiece home in Gated Diamond Ridge sitting on interior corner lot! This complete remodel has all the right upgrades! 5 beds plus office, heated and cooled pebble tech pool & spa, built-in BBQ and outdoor fireplace! Over $200,000 remodel includes kitchen expansion w/custom cabinets, granite counters,double oven, all bathrooms w/ replaced toilets, custom cabinets and granite counters. Huge Laundry room w/custom cabinets. New wood floors and carpet 6 months ago, plantation shutters, classy closets. Newer Trane A/C, custom wall unit in family room! Beautiful private family park. Steps away from MPR community pool, volleyball and tennis courts!

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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!

$469,900 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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Variety of unsettled issues may be making Ahwatukee market sluggish By Christie Ellis AFN GUEST WRITER

It seems there are so many things going on in Ahwatukee right now it is hard to keep track of what’s really happening: Urban-Ag proposed at The Lakes, Club West going brown, school starting, neighborly discussions about the elections, the bobcat wandering Club West, the hot summer and, lest we forget, the South Mountain Freeway. I have spoken to a number of people who feel the Ahwatukee real estate market is not moving as fast as some other parts of the East Valley. Some of that is true, although the 85248 ZIP code had a great 30 days with over 100 homes going under contract. Ahwatukee has had a challenge these past few months, but not as bad as you might think and the positive statistics may surprise you. The ZIP codes 85048 and 85044 have had a small dip in median pricing, $315,000 to $308,000 and 239,000 from $240,000, respectively. But there is only approximately only 2.5 months’ worth of inventory, keeping it a seller’s market. In 85045 we have had a winning streak for the past three months with a 12.5 percent increase in sales in the past 30 days. Most children in this area went back to school Aug. 1 and many people with school age children tend to purchase

QUESTIONS >> From page RE 3

house is empty, between owners. Are there warranties? If there are warranties on appliances, the garage door opener or anything else expensive, can the homeowner provide the documentation? Ask for it. This can establish how old these features are, and give you an idea of when they might need to be replaced and how expensive it could be. It will also help you decide whether or not to buy a home warranty. What are the parking restrictions? Will guests need parking permits around

KELLER WILLIAMS® REALTY

prior to the start of that school year. The August statistics are always interesting because very little happens the first few weeks school is in session. For you buyers who are waiting, your competition is lower at this point and you may want to take the opportunity for a little less pressured negotiation. Sellers be patient. Winter visitors come back soon and will be shopping. If you look at a much longer historical view of Ahwatukee, during the past five years, Ahwatukee as a whole has had a generally slow and steady increase. If you pull out the ZIP codes, 85045 is the only one that looks more like a roller coaster than a trip upstream. The next year here in Ahwatukee, owners – especially along the possible freeway alignment – will see some ups and downs until the future becomes clearer. Does the 202 start construction or not? Will Ahwatukee Lakes acquire more homes or not? Will Club West get sold or not, and if so, what does it become? After we see answers to a lot of these questions, we will again see a stronger appreciation of the housing market here and I am hoping we can make up a little for lost time. –Christie Ellis, GRI, CRS, ABR, is a Realtor with United Brokers Group, an Ahwatukee Real Estate Specialist and Club West resident. Reach her at 480-201-3575 or Christie@ ChristieEllisHomes.com.

the house? How many permits are you, as the homeowner, allowed, and can you obtain more if you decide to throw a party? Also, check out the parking situation on the property itself. Will your car(s) fit in the garage? Is there room to park anywhere else on the property other than the driveway? Any kind of unusual history? In many states, owners are legally bound to disclose if a death or major crime has occurred recently on the premises, but there are other circumstances you should be aware of as well. For example: Did anyone famous ever live there? Was it ever used in a film, TV series, or commercial? If so, you might have to deal with fans ringing your doorbell or driving by at all hours of the day or night.

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Page 4 REAL ESTATE | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

ahwatukee.com

Ahwatukee Foothills News online

(Special to AFN)

Tapestry Canyon home offers million-dollar views ($1.22 million, to be exact)

The home at 14251 S. 14th St. in Ahwatukee’s Tapestry Canyon neighborhood offers 5,717 square feet of living space on a secluded 3.28 acre lot. The property, which recently sold for $1.22 million, was described by mls.com as an “exquisite hillside masterpiece” where stunning views are afforded from a variety of rooms and balconies, including a window in the front that overlooks South Mountain. A huge master bath with stone counters, dual sinks and custom stone backsplash offers both a spa-like tub and walk-in shower with travertine surround as well as his and hers walk-in closets. The bath compliments in size and design

the attached master bedroom with custom fireplace, large sitting area and private patio access. The mls.com listing raves that the backyard is “phenomenal” with a covered patio complete with full kitchen, large fire pit, and a Pebble Tec play pool adjacent to a spa and custom rock waterfall. The outdoor entertainment area stretches the length of the house and includes the choice of a television or a large fire pit for even more dramatic viewing pleasure. The gourmet kitchen is well equipped for any dinner party complete with six-burner Viking range, Sub-Zero refrigerator, walk-in pantry, custom cabinetry and granite countertops.

(Special to AFN)

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF

(Special to AFN)

This home at 14251 S. 14th St., Ahwatukee, sold recently for $1.22 million.

(Special to AFN)

One of two living rooms in the 14th Street home includes a fireplace and vaulted ceiling.

A view of the backyard of the 14th Street home shows the spa and swimming pool, complete with a rock waterfall. A huge master bathroom in the 14th Street home sports a sitting area and fireplace. ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | REAL ESTATE

Page 5

Ahwatukee homes sold 85044

$155,500 8641 S. 51ST $159,900 4810 E. EUCLID AVE 3 $167,000 4814 E. HAZEL DR. $200,000 12129 S. TOMI DR. $203,750 11436 S. MAZE COURT $211,000 11838 S. WINNEBAGO ST. $218,500 4659 E. PIEDMONT ROAD $220,000 4727 E. WHITE ASTER ST. $225,000 4635 E. SHOMI ST $225,000 13836 S. 40TH ST. $225,000 12850 S. 42ND PLACE $225,100 13634 S. 41ST WAY $230,000 9203 S. 51ST ST $236,500 3914 E. SOUTH FORK DR. $239,900 12410 S. 44TH S.T $255,000 4549 E. THISTLE LANDING DR. $285,000 4710 E. ARDMORE ROAD $289,900 5137 E. TONIKO DR. $300,000 15214 S. 47TH ST. $300,000 4130 E. ROCKLEDGE ROAD $300,000 14602 S. 34TH WAY $325,000 13620 S. 37TH ST. $560,000 3501 E. ROCKY SLOPE DR. 750,000 3534 E. SUNCREST COURT $825,000 11827 S. WARPAINT DR. $1,435,000 11803 S. TUZIGOOT COURT

85045 $238,000 $250,000 $260,000 $275,000 $280,000 $338,000 $342,000 $355,000 $392,000

85048 $136,000 $145,000 $149,900 $151,500 $153,000 $211,900 $217,000 $230,000 $245,000 $247,500 $254,000 $265,000 $266,000 $275,000

325 W. MOUNTAIN SAGE DR. 1667 W. COTTONWOOD LN 1729 W. MUIRWOOD DR. 16626 S. 30TH DR. 110 W. MOUNTAIN SAGE DR. 1730 W. LACEWOOD PLACE 16657 S. 27TH DR. 16412 S 18TH DR. 17009 S. COLEMAN ST.

3236 E CHANDLER BLVD 1085 16013 S. DESERT FOOTHILLS PKWY. 16013 S. DESERT FOOTHILLS PKWY. 16013 S. DESERT FOOTHILLS PKWY. 16013 S. DESERT FOOTHILLS PKWY. 4408 E. WILDWOOD DR. 4525 E. FRYE ROAD 4340 E. AMBER RIDGE WAY 4534 E. AMBERWOOD DR. 3002 E. WOODLAND DR. 1147 E. AMBERWOOD DR. 5224 S. 14TH ST. 4526 E. AMBERWOOD DR. 3827 E. BRIARWOOD TERRACE

School Highlight:

Grace Garden Christian Preschool 10841 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee

$279,950 4518 E. ASHURST DR. $280,000 3018 E. WOODLAND DR. $285,250 4236 E. BROOKWOOD COURT $292,000 16625 S. 42ND ST. $294,000 15622 S. 37TH WAY $297,500 15213 S. 28TH ST. $300,000 16240 S 32ND PLACE $306,000 4121 E. REDWOOD LANE $318,000 16441 S. 47TH PLACE $329,000 16229 S. 35TH ST. $338,000 1445 E. WINDSONG DR. $342,990 15816 S. 12TH WAY $370,000 912 E. VERBENA DR. $379,900 14654 S. 23RD PLACE $410,000 16621 S. 11TH AVE. $420,000 15204 S. 21ST ST. $427,500 16657 S 18TH WAY $450,000 1832 E. BROOKWOOD COURT $460,000 14238 S. 8TH ST. $460,000 15406 S. 16TH PLACE $466,000 737 E. MOUNTAIN SKY AVE $512,000 2145 E. TECOMA ROAD $557,000 14833 S. 20TH ST. $569,000 15023 S 30TH ST. $1,225,000 14251 S 14TH ST.

Grace Garden Christian Preschool aims to “facilitate a lifelong love of learning spiritually and developmentally,” said Catherine Thomson, the director. “The children develop socially, emotionally, physically and cognitively through the many activities that are prepared throughout the day. We want to provide our children and parents with the tools for success when entering the next stage in their lives.” Located in Ahwatukee for over 10 years, Thomson said, “we have established ourselves as an early childhood educational facility in which your child will be challenged in an environment that balances learning through play and structure.” The school’s website touts a new outdoor playground with equipment recommended by national safety regulations. “This outdoor play area is designed to delight children while providing many opportunities for large and small muscle development,” it says. A specially designed garden area teaches children to grow their own fruits, flowers, plants, and vegetables. A misting system and shade structures have been installed for the

Information: 480-598-5600, http:// gracegardenchristianpreschool.com.

Grayson Bond, left, and Michael Tuminello, use a model of a computer to get familiarized with a keyboard at Grace Garden Christian Preschool in Ahwatukee.

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BLACK ROCK CANYON

HIDDEN CANYON

hot, summer months. The school emphasizes reading, writing, and arithmetic. “High academic standards are maintained within a happy, stimulating, and interesting atmosphere,” the website states. “Our goal is to teach the children about God and his plan for their lives,” the website says. “During Bible classes a specific subject and related scripture verses are taught. Fun songs and review games are part of the lesson. Biblical concepts are integrated into the daily academic lessons as well, to help the children see the relationship to biblical principles in their everyday lives” The school accepts children 6 weeks to 5 years of age, and takes school-age children when needed. It is state-certified and open year-round. Hours are 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. “They will leave us knowing God’s love will always be with them throughout their lives and the importance of prayer,” Thomson said. A fundraiser with Kona Ice will be held outside the school at 3:30 p.m. Aug. 17.

15033 S 7th Street

NEW LISTING

3,379sqft, 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom. Gorgeous upgraded single level on 1/3acre hillside lot in the pristine gated community of Black Rock Canyon.

HIDDEN CANYON

$689,900

14841 S 7th Street

14008 S Rockhill Road, Lot #40

2414 E Cathedral Rock Drive

NEW LISTING

FEATURED CUSTOM LOT LISTING

FEATURED LISTING

3,152sqft , 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom. Fabulous single level custom home in the prestigious gated community of Black Rock Canyon.

CANYON VERDE

MOUNTAIN PARK RANCH

CANYON RESERVE

$749,000

Incredible 4 plus acre custom lot with luscious Sonoran desert landscape, stunning mountain and city light views! One of the last opportunities left in Ahwatukee to build your dream home!

EQUESTRIAN ESTATES

$649,900

1,817sqft, 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom. Beautiful super clean upgraded single level in great Mountain Park Ranch Location.

EAGLE RIDGE

$299,900

14016 S 9th Street LUXURY HOMES I N T E R N A T I O N A L

Sonoran Living

Each Keller Williams Office is Independently Owned and Operated

Page 6

NEW LISTING

2,833sqft, 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom. Stunning single family home, four bedrooms plus and office on oversized .45 acre corner lot!

$619,900

802 E Desert Flower Lane

NEW LISTING

2,833sqft, 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom. Remarkable hillside gem nestled on the base of South Mountain in the highly sought gated community of Hidden Canyon.

$694,900

16471 S Mountain Stone Trail

3701 E Nowata Drive

715 E Windmere Drive

NEW LISTING

FEATURED LISTING

3,302 sqft, 4 bedroom, 3.75 bathroom. Beautiful hillside single level Forte golf course lot home with stunning views!

$899,000

2,729sqft, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom. Stunning tri-level custom home nestled on an oversized lot in the prestigious Ahwatukee community of Equestrian.

$649,900

4,366sqft, 4 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom. Stunning single level custom home in the prestigious hilltop gated community of Eagle Ridge.

$1,149,000

B onny@LeadingLuxur yExper ts.com • w w w.LeadingLuxur yE xper ts.com • 602.369.1085

REAL ESTATE | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | REAL ESTATE Page 7

(Special to AFN)

This aerial photo shows the front of the Tuzigoot Court house that sold for $1.43 million.

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF

Designed by an architect and built under the supervision of a civil engineer, the $1.43 million house at 11803 S. Tuzigoot Court, Ahwatukee, is “a masterpiece of a home,” according to the listing on mls.com. The 5,717-square-foot, two-story house boasts 7 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, $44,000 worth of security upgrades and energysaving technology, and sits on slightly more than half an acre of land. “It’s hard to find a custom home that was built only a few years ago,” the listing says of the house, built in 2009 near the height of the recession. And yet, more than $80,000 worth of improvements were made within the past year, says the listing agent. More than half of those improvements were among the security and energy-saving upgrades, but also new are $4,000 in new window treatments, a $5,000 misting system and

$11,000 in new paint. The “immense” kitchen with 12-foot granite counters, Thermador appliances, and giant walk-in pantry is adjacent to an equally large family room with 15-foot disappearing nano glass doors leading to the covered outdoor patio. Guests entertained on the patio need not walk back to the main kitchen to replenish drinks or munchies: the patio houses a full outdoor kitchen, complete with fireplace, overlooking the heated diving pool. No need to trundle upstairs in dripping trunks after a dip, either: The backyard entertainment area includes an outdoor shower area. Upstairs bedrooms include many conveniences. One bathroom is complete with a wall-mounted large-screen TV over the sink. You won’t miss the morning news, although shaving may be a bit of a challenge.

(Special to AFN)

$1.4-million Tuzigoot Court house in Ahwatukee a ‘hard to find’ newer custom home

This view of the Tuzigoot Court home’s “backyard” shows the sports court, the balconies off the second-floor bedrooms, the pool and the covered patio with outdoor kitchen.

Page 8 REAL ESTATE | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

TOP PHOTO: The Tuzigoot Court house’s kitchen leads to an informal dining area that has views of the backyard. MIDDLE PHOTO: An open design of the front interior of the Tuzigoot Court home makes the formal dining area flow into one of several firstfloor sitting rooms with a stone fireplace and a custom-designed front entryway. MIDDLE PHOTO: One of the Tuzigoot Court home’s six bathrooms is part of a child’s room. Photos special to AFN.

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | REAL ESTATE

Page 9

SPOTLIGHT home

This is a rare find! The perfect ahwatukee location!*Stunning remodeled single-level home at the end of a cul-de-sac*4 bedroom, 2 bath, and a 3-car garage!*Formal living & dining room*family room w/fireplace*kitchen includes new s/s frigidaire appliances,slab granite counters,mosaics,island,dark cabinets,recessed lighting, & walk-in pantry*hardwood flooring throughout*designer stone look tile*rich brown carpet*new fixtures*new ceiling fans*new 3-inch wood blinds*new paint inside & out*new patio roof*large master suite*master bath w/slab granite,dual vanities,separate tub & shower, & walk-in closet*huge backyard w/covered patio and grass area*located next to everything ahwatukee has to offer!! Within walking distance of shopping,dining,parks,hiking, & freeway*priced below recent comps!*

Offered for $315,000

Geno Ross (602) 751-2121 www.GenoRoss.com

Coming Soon!

Mountain Park Ranch With over 4400 SF of fine living, this property has all the special appointments and fixtures you expect in a luxury home. From the moment you enter you will be transported to your own private paradise. No expense was spared in this stunning and architecturally dramatic home featuring coffered ceilings, soaring windows w/plantation shutters, chef’s kitchen with granite, gas cooking, stainless appliances, new wood plank floors, 2 fireplaces, glorious master suite with huge walk in closet and luxurious master bath. Secondary beds have remodeled baths and walk-in closets. Entertain outside in your own private resort back yard with huge patio, swimming pool, built in BBQ, fire pit and great hillside views. This is a one of a kind estate.

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.

Listed for $518,500

Offered for $1,015,000

SONORAN LIVING

KELLER WILLIAMS® REALTY

Mike Smith

602.579.5667 • www.PhoenixNative.com

Mike Mendoza

480.706.7234 • www.MendozaTeam.com

Page 10 REAL ESTATE | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

Millennials may fear commitment in the housing market By Claire Trapasso Realtor.com

Much hand-wringing has occurred over the fact that millennials are putting off what used to be one of the main achievements of adult life: buying a home. This ownership-interruptus has been attributed to everything from fastrising home prices to towering student loan debt to the ultrastrict credit requirements to score a mortgage. But it might have a lot to do with their fear of commitment as well, suggests one study. About 20 percent of those between the ages of 18 and 34 are likely to be afraid of the long-term obligation (30 years, for the full term of a typical mortgage) that buying a home with a partner represents, according to a recent NerdWallet survey. That broke down to about 34 percent of young men and, not surprisingly, just 10 percent of young women. Meanwhile, only 4 percent of respondents ages 35 and older harbored the same fear, according to the survey. NerdWallet, a personal finance website, commissioned the survey of more than 2,000 adults,

including nearly 1,300 homeowners. “Home buying is a pretty big commitment. For most folks, it’s probably going to be one of the biggest purchases they’re ever going to make in their financial lives,” says Chris Ling, NerdWallet’s head of home buying and mortgages. “It’s not as simple as if you split up, one person can stop paying” the mortgage. That may be a factor in why homeownership rates dropped to its lowest levels since 1965, at just 62.9 percent, in the second quarter of 2016, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Housing Vacancy Survey. Just 34.1 percent of millennials owned the deeds to their abodes — down from 39 percent in the second quarter of 2010, according to the survey, which looked only at 2010 to 2016 data. But commitment wasn’t the only thing survey respondents were scared about. About 71 percent of participants of all ages expressed other concerns ranging from the home needing repairs, not having enough money left over for other expenses, and the sheer magnitude of the financial commitment of becoming a homeowner.

Ahwatukee’s #1 Team for Over 28 Years

480-706-7234

Mike Mendoza

www.MendozaTeam.com

Ahwatukee

Lakewood

Superb 2016 remodel in the Ahwatukee Country Club area. Active adult community offering abundant amenities at newly renovated recreation center. Updated kitchen features quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. Master suite with new custom tiled shower plus walk-in-closet. New windows and A/C unit.

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.

Mountain Park Ranch

Foothills Reserve

Great greenbelt lot close to abundant Mountain Park Ranch amenities. 4 br, 3 ba with 2,739 sq. ft. Master suite with view balcony. 17" tile, carpet and wood laminate flooring in 2011. Energy efficient windows in 2007. Solar hot water system and Goettl A/C units in 2009. Exterior and interior paint in 2013.

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.

Listed for $269,500

Listed for $359,990

Listed for $325,000

Listed for $375,000

The Foothills

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.

Listed for $415,000

Listed for $425,000

Club West

Mountain Park Ranch

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 $428,500

Listed for $518,500

www.MendozaTeam.com Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | REAL ESTATE

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Page 12 REAL ESTATE | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

Faith

Churches, events and spirituality

SPIRITUAL SIDE

What man and the world need now is God more than ever By Brad Butler AFN GUEST WRITER

I love playing sports and my favorite “go to” place most of my life has been Sports Authority. My garage is full of basketballs, volleyballs, Frisbees, Ping Pong paddles, sling shots, croquet mallets -- you name it, all bought at Sports Authority. And so it was a sad day when I saw a banner hanging outside their building saying, “Store Closing.” Of course, it’s nice to go in there and buy golf clubs at ridiculously low prices, but that doesn’t take away the sadness of seeing them close up shop. More people are living paycheck to paycheck and just don’t have the extra money to go spend on camping, boating, golfing and $100 tennis shoes. There is another corporation going under that is much larger than Sports Authority. In fact, it is worldwide. It is called “The World.” Now “The World” went belly up one other time (Google “Noah”). It re-opened

a short time later, but now – after about a 4,000 year run – it is about to go under for a second time (Google “End Times”). So what is causing the world to go under? That’s an easy one: it is hate. If the world were growing in love, we wouldn’t be having this conversation. Things would be getting better and better. But they are not. The opposite is happening. Things are getting worse and worse. In the 1950s and early 60s, life seemed pretty good. There was some racial strife, but for the most part we all got along. Most of us were “proud to be an American” and there was a strong “we the people” feeling as we focused outwardly on trying to help other countries that weren’t as fortunate as us. In the mid-60s things, began to break down. Our focus turned inward. We became more self-centered. We adopted the mantra “If it feels good, do it.” We became a generation of drugs, sex and rock n’ roll. Now all this “free love” going around didn’t seem to be hurting anyone. But it was. Anytime “self” becomes the focus things will eventually go bad. Self

causes the hate meter to go up. Fast forward to the 90s and the rising hate meter is causing issues like bullying and road rage. Fast forward another 10 years and we start seeing shootings in our schools and movie theaters. Next came the hi-jacking of airplanes and rise in suicide bombings. Fast forward to today and we all know what the issues are. The hatred and divisiveness in our country and in our world is at an all-time high. People can’t stand people who don’t think or act like them. Their recourse is to go grab a gun, or a bomb or just hop in a truck and start driving into people. With mass killings happening now almost weekly people are asking more and more, “What is the solution? When will it stop?” I’ve been glued to the news like most of you and all I’ve heard is things like, “We all just need to stop and take a deep breath.” That works for me half way through my yoga class, but that’s not much of a solution here. Our President says, “We need to have open hearts.” Ummm …. okay …. I don’t even know what that means. Do you know why we won’t be hearing

of a truly effective solution? It breaks my heart to say, but it’s because there is no solution. There is no person or man-made plan that will turn back the hate meter. It will keep rising – not as fast as Sports Authority closing – but we all know it’s rising. And so does God. He is not surprised. That’s why He made a plan long ago to send His Son back again. Jesus will return. And He will set the hate meter on zero by getting rid of evil once and for all (Rev. 20:10). Until then, let’s keep looking up and worshipping God. Let’s keep looking around at how to best love our neighbors and let’s keep looking forward to the awesome things God has in store for those who love Him (1 Cor. 2:9). Sports Authority – I’m gonna miss you; third opening of “The World” – I look forward to your first day of business.

Brad Butler is a PGA Golf Instructor who attends both Central Christian and Mountain Park Community Church in Ahwatukee. Reach him at bbgolf@cox.net

CALENDAR

TUESDAY, AUG. 16

SATURDAY AUG. 20

University Drive, Mesa. Information: 480-830-1724, pilgrimmesa.com, office@pilgrimmesa.com.

A 13-week DivorceCare program offers a safe environment for people struggling with divorce or separation. DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m., Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road, Ahwatukee. Childcare is available. Information/registration: www. mountainpark.org.

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.

SUNDAY AUG. 21

CHURCH OFFERS DIVORCE CARE

GAMES AND ICE CREAM ON TAP

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.” DETAILS>> 10 a.m. Sundays and 7 p.m. Thursdays. 3015 E. Warner Road. Information: valorcc.com.

HORIZON SEEKS YOUNG PEOPLE

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.

BERIEVED CAN SHARE GRIEF

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 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’ >> See FAITH CALENDAR on page 45

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 Page 45

FAITH CALENDAR >> From page 44

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.

UNITY OFFERS A PATH

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

This 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.

STRUGGLING FIND SUPPORT

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

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

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.

HOLY TRINITY HAS GRIEFSHARE

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, 480-917-3593.

WEDNESDAYS

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

Corpus Christi offers a coffee break with scripture 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.

GET A ‘SPIRITUAL SHOWER’

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.

DIVORCED CAN FIND COMFORT

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. One-time 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 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. Submit your releases to pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com

isit… church to v fe a s a r fo king if you’re loo

at s y a d n u S n o Join us 30am : 0 1 & m a 0 0 : 9 park.org e @ mountain visit us onlin

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

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

CALENDAR

Sneak up on the Cardinals, watch meteors or explore history By Justin Ferris GETOUT/AFN STAFF WRITER

Sneak a preview of the Cards

The countdown is on to football, and you can be a part of it with a sneak preview on the 2016 version of the Arizona Cardinals in practice. Get autographs and let your kids enjoy a special Kids Zone -- all for free.

Explore some Arizona history

You can’t explore the history of Arizona without talking about the Fred Harvey Company, which started out operating restaurants and hotels along the railway lines. Get more insight into this influential company and period in Arizona history, plus enjoy a cash bar. Details>> 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m., Thursday. Heard Museum, 2301 N Central Ave., Phoenix. Tickets: $10. http://heard.org/ event-tickets/

Catch the meteor shower Details>> 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m., Through Aug. 26, with some exceptions. University of Phoenix Stadium, 1 Cardinals Dr., Glendale. Cost: Free. http://www.azcardinals.com/

Gather with the cowboy poets

The annual Perseid Meteor Shower sends more than 100 fiery meteors an hour rocketing through the Earth’s atmosphere. To really enjoy it, you’ll need to get out of the Valley and away from the light pollution. Consider Kitt Peak National Observatory for the most educational experience.

Cowboys spent a lot of nights under the stars with not much to do, and so they come up with poems, stories and songs. You can get a taste of that legacy, thanks to more than 50 poets and singers who keep the tradition alive.

to your home, or just need to get your daily dose of cuteness, head over to the Kitten Pop Up Shop. The adoption fee is $100 for one kitten and $150 for two. However, window shopping is free. Details>> 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. Scottsdale Quarter, 15037 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. http:// scottsdalequarter.com/

Sail with the Navy Band

The U.S. Navy Band Cruisers features eight of the Navy’s best band performers. They perform a range of styles, from jazz to R&B and classic rock to pop. If you’re looking for high-energy afternoon of free entertainment, look no further. Details>> 7:30 p.m., Tuesday and Aug. 17. Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. Tickets: $25$145. http://www.talkingstickresortarena.com/

Free line dancing offered Details>> 3 p.m., Sunday. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Cost: Free. http://www.chandlercenter.org

Original Guns N’Roses coming Details>>10 p.m.-3 a.m., Thursday and Friday. Kitt Peak National Observatory, Kitt Peak, Tucson. Tickets: $45. 520-318-8726

Deep” here in the Valley and you don’t want to miss her command performance.

Break out the cowboy boots and charge up your electric slide for free Wednesday Night line dancing. Not sure how to line dance? You get lessons on the spot. And don’t worry about dancing solo; an average of 40 to 50 people show up to dance.

Possibly the most ’80s of the concerts this summer, classic rock legend Guns N’ Roses will not only perform, it will perform with original members Axl Rose, Slash and Duff McKagen for the first time since 1993. Don’t miss it!

Try kitten ‘pop-ups’

Whether you want to add a new kitty

Details>> All Day, Thursday-Saturday, Yavapai College, 1100 E. Sheldon Ave., Prescott. Tickets: Free day-time, $20$35 night concerts. http://azcowboypoets.org/

Details>> 8 p.m., Monday. University of Phoenix Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale. Tickets: $57-$257. http://www. universityofphoenixstadium.com

Adele singing in Phoenix

Say “Hello” to Adele. The multiplatinum selling singer is “Rolling in the

Details>> 5:30-7:30 p.m., Wednesdays. Cactus Jack’s Bar & Brill, 4747 East Elliot Road, Ahwatukee. Cost: Free. http://www.cactusjacksbar.co. (yes, that’s .co, not a typo) Get more ideas for fun things to do in the East Valley - and beyond - at Phoenix.org.

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 Page 47

Christian music fills the Valley air this month By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski Chicago-bred Christian singer Matthew West admits he’s a “huge baseball fan.” For one night, he’ll throw on an Arizona Diamondbacks jersey for Faith and Family Night when the snakes take on the Cincinnati Reds on Friday, Aug. 26. “I love combining my two loves: baseball and music,” West said. “I grew up in Chicago so those teams will always have a place in my heart. “Hopefully we’ll get a Diamondbacks win and the crowd will be in good spirits.” West is one of several Christian acts who will be in town in August. Others include Danny Gokey, Thousand Foot Krutch, Bethel Music, Justin Unger, Jason Gray and JJ Heller. “Phoenix has embraced Christian music,” West said. “As Christian artists, we’re really thankful for that. It seems like every time we go, there are tons of people who are so welcoming to us. Anytime I see Phoenix on my schedule, I circle that on my calendar and look forward to it.”

Bethel Music

Josh Baldwin just wrapped up gardening around his Redding, California, home. He was a little tired, and a bit hot, but he was pleased to talk about Bethel Music’s “worship night” at the Comerica Theatre on Friday. “It brings worship and music and people together,” Baldwin said. The tour features Bethel Music worship favorites and new music from “Have It All,” a multiartist double-disc live recording released March 11 that has garnered wide critical acclaim. He called the show “corporate worship,” which brings together God’s word, prayer and fellowship.

(Special to AFN)

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Thousand Foot Krutch has released eight studio albums, one live album and three remix albums.

“We definitely tell stories and share, what’s going on, but there’s something but we have some corporate ministry exciting about doing it this way.” time and personal In the days of terrorist attacks, mass ministry time,” shootings and said Baldwin, other violent OTHER SHOWS: who joins fellow encounters, When: Saturday, Aug. 20, singers Brian and Baldwin said What: Valley visits by Jenn Johnson, Bethel Music is Justin Unger, Jason Gray and JJ Heller, Amanda Cook a good change Information: extremefaithproductions.com and Cory Asbury of focus. What: Positive Hits Tour with Passion, in Phoenix. “When the Danny Gokey, Capital Kings and Hollyn “It’s more like world is in crisis, Information: gcuarena.com a song and singerpeople turn songwriter to things like time. It’s really this,” he said. well done.” ‘It’s great that Baldwin said the Bethel shows are people say, ‘Let’s turn to the Lord.’” personalized to each city. Bethel Music Night is 7 p.m. Friday at “We get a feeling for what’s going on in Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington that city and rein in what the Lord’s doing St., Phoenix. Tickets are $33 for the and what that might mean for that night. general admission show. For more “It changes each night, which makes it information, call 800-745-3000 or visit more special for each place. I love knowing ticketmaster.com.

“We have our quieter and more aggressive moments on every record,” he said. “We thought that on ‘Inhale,’ we’d focus on the quieter side of the band. With ‘Exhale,’ we just dropped the gloves, put pedal to the metal and got more aggressive. It feels great to have ‘Exhale’ out.” He compares a Thousand Foot Krutch show to the feeling of “Exhale.” “Our show is very high octane,” he said. “We’re massive music fans and we love connecting through music.” The Canadian band has won and or been nominated for several prizes from the Gospel Music Association Canada Covenant, GMA Dove, Juno and Shai awards. McNevan has one person to thank. “Honestly, we give all the glory to God for that,” said McNevan, whose band has been together 20 years. “We feel like we’re just getting started. We still love music the same. It’s such a privilege. “We’re a brotherhood with a passion for music. Our faith is our lifestyle.” Thousand Foot Krutch will appear with Adelita’s Way, Smashing Satellites, 3 Pill Morning, Interfate and Throw Logic at 6 p.m. Thursday at Club Red, 1306 W. University Drive, Mesa. Tickets are $23 to $25. For more information, call 480258-2733 or visit clubredrocks.com.

Matthew West

An established author, singersongwriter and actor, Matthew West has learned to “never to write anything off.” “You never know what kind of opportunities are going to come,” said West, who is close to inking a book deal. “I look back and it’s pretty amazing all of the different things I’ve been able to do. >> See CHRISTIAN MUSIC on page 52

Josh Baldwin and Bethel Music focuses on producing worship songs and albums that are largely written and recorded by members of their Artist Collective.

Page 48

Million-selling Christian rockers Thousand Foot Krutch could play theaters, but on this round of dates, the band is hitting the intimate confines of Club Red in Mesa. “For this headlining ‘Exhale’ tour, we wanted to do something intimate and really fun,” said singer Trevor McNevan. “We wanted to go to rock clubs again and get face to face with everyone. “It’s just such a blessing to play bigger shows, but once, if not twice a year, we have to play club shows. There’s just something about them, man. “To get with your rock family, it feels like a different kind of connection. We love being a part of that.” Released on June 17, the album “Exhale” is the bookend to a two-part series that started with “Oxygen: Inhale.”

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

(Special to AFN)

Thousand Foot Krutch

Matthew West has worked as a songwriter for many Christian musicians and groups as well as mainstream country acts, like Rascal Flatts, Billy Ray Cyrus and Vince Gill.

Broadway shows at Gammage Theater brought big bucks to the Valley Broadway meant big bucks for the Valley, according to ASU Gammage. Its 2015-2016 Desert Schools Broadway Across America/ Arizona season had an estimated $100-million of economic impact on the Valley during the fiscal year that ended June 30. More than 400,000 people flock to see Broadway annually at the Tempe theater, which was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The majority of theater-goers are Valley residents but ticket buyers in every county in Arizona as well as out-of-state patrons visit, a Gammage spokesman said. “The arts as a whole are a tremendous piece of Arizona’s economic engine,” said Colleen Jennings-Roggensack, executive director for ASU Gammage and associate vice president cultural affairs for ASU. Jennings-Roggensack has been leading ASU Gammage for 24 years, during which the theater had an estimated economic impact of more than $1 billion. Based on research by The Broadway League, since 2006 ASU Gammage has created more than a $550-millionf economic impact for Arizona. “The variety of arts and cultural events in Tempe make our city a destination for both locals and visitors,” said Stephanie Nowack, president and CEO of the Tempe Tourism Office. “ASU Gammage, with its 10 to 20 weeks of popular Broadway shows, is a true Tempe gem which consistently benefits the city by boosting sales of Tempe businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and retailers.” ASU Gammage now has a record number of season subscribers, about 13,000, for the full seven-show Broadway series. Subscribers who renew for the

(Special to AFN)

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF

2016-2017 season will be able to guarantee their seats for the premiere 2017-2018 Tempe engagement of the hit musical “Hamilton” before tickets become available to the general public. “Patrons know that subscribers get great seats at a great value,” JenningsRoggensack said. “There is so much excitement and anticipation of all the great things to come to ASU Gammage

including the new restrooms and elevators that will be completed in 2017. “’Hamilton’ is transcendent and powerful and the community wants to be a part of it,” she added. The 2016-2017 Desert Schools Broadway Across America–Arizona season includes “Cabaret” and “The Sound of Music” as well as “Matilda,” “Finding Neverland,” “An American in

Paris,” and “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time.” Its headline musical is “Beautiful,” the Carole King musical that traces her rise to stardom. Season subscriptions are still available at asugammage.com and start at $145 for seven shows. Information: www.asugammage.com

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Crowdfunding campaign pays off for 3 Pill Morning By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

place. It’s more about touring and building a loyal fan base. “We just played a rock festival and there were 38,000 people there. We think people still love rock.”

GETOUT/AFN STAFF WRITER

Page 50

– Contact Christina Fuoco-Karasinski at 480898-5612 or christina@timespublications.com. – Check us out and like GetOutAZ on Facebook and follow GetOutAZ on Twitter.

3 Pill Morning’s first radio single, “Loser,” stayed in radio rotation on the Top 100 chart for over 6 months in 2011.

had a break from the road, we would knock songs out. “We found that these breaks capture the emotion and the energy that we wanted with this collection.” “Never Look Back” mixes melodic hard rock and, according to Stebbins, “draws

(Special to AFN)

Setting up a crowdfunding campaign is always a gamble, but with a few goodies to entice a few cash gifts, it can be successful. 3 Pill Morning isn’t exactly a household name, but it ended with 150 percent of its goal by offering a slew of goodies ranging from a digital download of its new album plus bonus content ($10) to a day-of-show hangout experience ($200). “We have toured like crazy over the past few years and always try to give a killer live show experience, but never had an opportunity to get fans involved with the music creation part,” said singer Jeff Stebbins. “The pledge gives us the ability to give the behind-the-scenes stories along with a bunch of killer in-studio experiences to the people that support the band. There’s a lot that goes into making an album. Seeing it and being a part of it is something pretty special.” The result is the 11-song “Never Look Back,” which was released on July 29 on Countdown Entertainment. “For this record, we really tried to keep it fresh,” Stebbins said. “Every time we

strength and resilience from all of the highs and lows that have come before.” 3 Pill Morning’s blue-collar work ethic and the influences of growing up in Minnesota are reflected as well. “It’s a cool scene up there for rock ‘n’ roll,” he said. “Rock is in a little different

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

IF YOU GO What: Thousand Foot Krutch, Adelita’s Way, Smashing Satellites, 3 Pill Morning, Interfate and Throw Logic Where: 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11 Where: Club Red, 1306 W. University Dr., Mesa Cost: $23-$25 Information: 480-258-2733 or clubredrocks.com

Rustler’s Rooste introduces baby bull, its sixth in a family tradition

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Rustler’s Rooste at Arizona Grand Resort has added a little bull. A six-month old bull born in Globe became the 45-year-old Ahwatukee restaurant’s sixth bull, replacing Freckles, who has been retired to a Scottsdale ranch. The new bull was christened Horney the Bull D’Amico in honor of retiring Fox 10 Phoenix News celebrity Rick D’Amico, who retired last week. The new bull is not related to Freckles, although in the past the restaurant has had a couple brothers, said Ashley Allen, the “social media wrangler” for Rustler’s Rooste, who, with her mother and restaurant owner Cathy DeMars, handle the new animal. “All our bulls are named ‘Horney the Bull’” but have individual nicknames,” she said. The tradition of having a bull on the restaurant grounds was started by DeMars’ family when they founded the restaurant in 1971. Indeed, Allen said every bull the restaurant has had outside ina small corrall is a “family bull.” “The legend goes that the original site, atop our butte in the foothills of South Mountain, was a hideout for cattle rustlers,” Allen said, adding that the bull

represents the family’s contention that Rustler’s Rooste is “the Valley’s highest and brightest beacon of the total cowboy western experience.” Allen said she and her mothers work with D’Amico every day. “One of his favorite things is head scratches and cold carrots,” Allen said. “Our bulls eat twice a day hay with a side of sweet feed,” she added. “For treats they get apples, carrots and alfalfa cubes. Our bulls have their own personal vet, as well as a person to trim their hooves.” D’Amico likely will be replaced toward the end of this year or early next. “We switch our bulls out every five to six months and send them to the ranch for some play time and rest and a chance to get out of the public eye,” Allen explained. Patrons can look at D’Amico as long as they want, but they can’t pet him. “For the safety of Horney and our guests, we don’t allow petting,” Allen said.

(Special to AFN)

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF

Horney the Bull D’Amico, now at Rustler’s Roost in the Arizona Grand resort in Ahwatukee, was born in February in Globe.

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Maricopa filmmaking workshop is free, open to Ahwatukee residents GETOUT/AFN STAFF

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.

Ask the Financial Experts! Friday, August 19th • 10am • Pecos Senior Center Learn useful financial strategies from a panel of experts. Topics will include Veterans Aid & Attendance, Reverse Mortgage Options, and Financial Planning. Pecos Senior Center • 17010 S 48th Street, Phoenix Please call 404.359.2898 to RSVP.

A new film festival company is offering would-be filmmakers and scriptwriters in Ahwatukee and the East Valley a chance to deepen their knowledge of movie making without denting their wallet. Copa Shorts Film Fest, Inc., of Maricopa, is a non-profit organization with a mission of developing and showcasing new film talent in the region. Founders Roger and Shelley Gillespie are offering a free workshop Sept. 15 at the Maricopa campus of Central Arizona College, which is funding the event. Shelley Gillespie said the workshop is a “natural extension” of the group’s mission. Because Central Arizona College is interested in community events and doesn’t currently have a film program, officials saw their partnership with Copa a natural, she added. The day-long workshop is a prelude to a contest that Copa Shorts plans for mid-February for budding directors of short films and screenwriters. It will also showcase student and Native American films. In that vein, the workshop will offer an interactive screenwriting workshop that will give attendees “a start-to-finish

CHRISTIAN MUSIC >> From page 48

“I’m enjoying life more than I ever have. I hit the stage and I can’t believe that somebody wants me to come and sing for them. I don’t take it for granted, that’s for sure.” He called Faith and Family Night a unique chance to play outside of church venues and attract new fans. West is promoting his 2015 album “Live Forever.” “There are people who will come to the concert who haven’t heard my music before,” said West, 39. “That’s really a cool thing to think about. Playing in a stadium, that’s beautiful as well. I know it’s probably going to be super hot. So we have to get ready to stay hydrated and get in shape for that one show.” West is keeping busy this year. He’s

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development process for screenplays,” Shelley Gillespie said. That will be followed by a presentation by Bruce Anderson, the owner of BVP Productions who has more than 30 years of filmmaking experience. He will teach the process for filmmaking, including lighting, sound and other elements of film production. Movies have been a passion for the Gillespies since they met 24 years ago, Shelley Gillespie said. “One of our first dates was to the movies,” she said. “We knew then how much the behind-the-scenes parts of the movies - the people who make the movies and aren’t always acknowledged - were important to both of us.” The Gillespies also organize a monthly viewing of a new movie called the 3-Hour Movie Critic. Members watch a film on a Saturday morning at the UltraStar Multi-tainment Center in Maricopa and then critique it. “Roger researches extensively,” Shelley Gillespie said. “We have a loyal following.” Registration is required for the workshop at www.eventsatcac.com. Information: info@copashortsfilmfest.org

writing a “full book, not just a devotional book or gift book.” He is also preparing for a Christmas album, and a proper new record. The Chase Field show is at the top of his list. “We have an awesome fan base in Phoenix and Scottsdale,” he said. “There are some great, great people there. We’re looking forward to a special night. I’ll probably have a hot dog or two before the show, too. That’s a good day in my book.” Matthew West will perform after the Arizona Diamondbacks play Cincinnati Reds. That game will begin at 6:40 p.m. Friday, Aug. 26, at Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson, Phoenix. Tickets are $14 to $225. Call 800-745-3000 or visit ticketmaster.com for more information. – Contact Christina Fuoco-Karasinski at 480898-5612 or christina@timespublications.com. – Check us out and like GetOutAZ on Facebook and follow GetOutAZ on Twitter.

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Sports Rec

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Desert Vista High leaves foe in lurch by canceling California game AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER

The Desert Vista High School football team is no longer headed to California on Aug. 26 to play in the Brothers in Arms tournament. The game at El Capitan in California on Aug. 27 gave the team an 11-game schedule. It was one of several games being held that weekend in the annual Brothers in Arms event. “We had our 10 games,” Thunder athletic director T.J. Snyder said. The players were told before they left for the annual team camp in Show Low on July 18. Arizona Interscholastic Association David Hines said Arizona schools can only schedule out-of-state games if the team has fewer than 10 to begin with and needs to fill it out their season calendar. “DV was scheduled for 10 games before

the discussion of a California team to play,” Hines said. “Arizona schools cannot schedule an 11th game with an out-of-state school.” The Brothers in Arms website still has the game on the schedule. El Capitan coach Ron Burner said the late notice made it too hard to do anything about it, so now his squad has a bye Week 1. “We found out July 21 and as you can imagine has put us in a very bad situation,” he said. “Nobody has games available at this late stage of the year with Game 1 four weeks away.” Desert Vista, which played in the inaugural Brothers in Arms event in 2013, opens the year Aug. 19 at Perry High School, and will now have a bye week before Basha on Sept. 2. – Contact Jason Skoda at 480-898-7915 or jskoda@ahwatukee.com. Follow him on Twitter @JasonPSkoda.

(Special to AFN)

By Jason P. Skoda

Desert Vista High’s football team was expected to make a return trip to the Brothers in Arms games in San Diego after going in 2013 but the game was scheduled after the Thunder already had 10 games. AIA bylaws forced the game to be canceled.

New Mt. Pointe baseball coach Matt Denny receives national recognition By Jason P. Skoda Matt Denny missed out on some of summer ball with Mountain Pointe High School as he transitioned to taking over the Pride’s baseball program. Now that school has started, Denny is starting to settle in after he and his family sold and bought a house. And he worked for Team USA baseball and then helped Team Arizona at the Sunbelt Classic in New Mexico. “A lot of my coaching buddies said it might be nice taking a summer off from coaching, but I would much rather have been coaching,” he said. “Buying and selling a house is pretty stressful.” He might not have gotten to know his players as much as he wanted to. The Pride played without him in tournaments such as the High Desert Baseball Classic in Flagstaff. But Denny just might earn a few more credentials to his coaching bio that he can use to break the ice once fall ball starts. Denny is up for two national awards for the work he did at Greenway High, including the Division II state title in May, before he was hired to replace Brandon Buck.

(Special to AFN)

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER

Mountain Pointe baseball coach Matt Denny is up for two national coaching awards for the work he did at Greenway High before being hired to runthe Pride’s program this year.

“I was shocked,”Denny said. “I never received an honor like that. It’s fun to be in that category. It’s awesome for the kids and the coaching staff. They are just as much part of it as I am.” “This means so much to me because of the overwhelming support I’ve received from players, parents, administration and, most importantly, my staff. I’m excited to share my knowledge and work ethic with the Mountain Pointe family and continue the tradition of Pride

baseball,” Denny said. The National High School Baseball Coaches Association (NHSBCA) announced Denny’s selection as Rocky Mountain Region Coach of the Year for the 2016 season for leading Greenway to the Division II state title. Denny, one of just eight coaches selected nationwide, is also a contender for 2016 National Baseball Coaches of America Coach of the Year, which will be announced on Dec. 2, at the NHSBCA

Hall of Fame/Awards dinner in Columbus, Ohio. “At Mountain Pointe we strive to hire the best and the brightest whether it is in the classroom, on the stage, or on the field. Matt Denny brings an enthusiasm for greatness that will not only affect our PE department and baseball program but the school overall,” Mountain Pointe principal Bruce Kipper said in a release. From 2008-2016, Denny led Greenway to a 205-76 record. His teams won 20 or more games six times and made the postseason tournament in all eight seasons – twice to the semifinals and twice to the championship game. In a two-year span, Denny coached his club to a record of 70-7, winning 29 games straight, tying a state record (2013), and winning a state championship (2014). The 2014 team earned the MaxPreps Medium Schools Rank of No.1 in the nation and Denny was named the Arizona Baseball Coaches Association Coach of the Year. He plans on bringing the same winning approach to Mountain Pointe with hopes of maintaining the level of success the program is accustomed to -- including See DENNY on page 60

ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 Page 55

Camp visits: MP’s defense will feed off front four AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER

The group up front this year could be one of the best under Coach Norris Vaughan, and there is a different look to it. In the past, the Pride has been on the smaller side up front with the likes of Charlie Trevino, Mitchell Fraboni and Dillon Goulet. But now Hayes, Pola-Mao and Pena average 6-2 ¼ and 282.7 pounds. Hayes and Pola-Mao set the tempo of the group. They evoke a ton of energy and in the today’s vernacular are always “looking to eat.” There were times in practice that the duo seemed unstoppable – whether it was the Pride’s ones on the line or the backups. It’s just training camp, and Fridays nights hit a different level. But in the handful of times we’ve witnessed spring and training camp, this group has been devastating. Don’t be surprised if there are quite a few collisions once the season kicks off.

Mesquite

Ten seasons after taking Cactus Shadows to a Class 4A state title, Chad

(Special to AFN)

The collision was so loud and violent that someone who wasn’t watching the play develop might have thought there was a car accident at 44th Street and Knox Road. But it was just the Mountain Pointe High defensive line feeding off each other in practice. It’s been a common occurrence thus far in camp. The Pride No. 1 defense is expected to be one of the best units in the state in 2016 and a lot of that comes from the D-Line. No one has a better view of the havoc than all-state safety Isaiah Pola-Mao when the play develops and he makes his read. “They are going to make my job so much easier,” Pola-Mao said. “The quarterback is going to have to make quick decisions and those are not always good ones.” The Pride has always deployed threeand four-man fronts, depending on the opponent and/or situation. No matter what defense steps on the field, the group of Shomari Hayes, Khalif Ravenell, Matthew Pola-Mao and Daniel Pena are going to be hard to handle.

All are big

Mountain Pointe’s Matthew Pola-Mao (75) is one of the key components to the Pride’s defensive front heading into 2016.

Mountain Pointe defensive end Khalif Ravenell making the tackle and the rest of the Pride front give the defense energy with its physical play.

DeGrenier is starting over at a new program for the second time. He is conducting preseason camp at Mesquite after DeGrenier’s five-year run at Mountain View ended after last season. The Wildcats have had just three winning seasons over the last 12 with the last coming in 2013 when they made the semifinals in Division II. The school’s population has been drained after the opening of other Gilbert schools, but DeGrenier has seen enough to know there is some talent to work with while laying the foundation for years to come. “We are young, but we have some good solid seniors,” he said. “The seniors are doing a good job of setting a good example of what a good practice should look like.” The senior class has more than 25 seniors listed on the roster with including top returners in quarterback/safety Preston Smith, wide receiver Robert Ortiz and linebacker Joe Eubanks. “It’s going good; kids are working hard,” said DeGrenier, who has a career record of 67-65. “You just have to keep grinding.” The team headed up to Williams

before camp to get some isolated time away from everything in order to build a rapport and trust. “We had nothing but each other for five days,” he said. “We were getting on the same page, putting in our system and enjoyed being outside in beautiful weather.” The Wildcats will need to be quick learners with a tough schedule as Mesa, Gilbert, Apollo and Desert Edge make up the non-region schedule. Then Queen Creek, Campo Verde, and Williams Field will be tough matchups in the Northeast Valley Region. DeGrenier is known for his fastpaced offensive scheme from his days as an Arena League quarterback, but the personnel has to match for it to be completely effective. “We have some good linemen so we could be more power than usual,” he said. “We have a little bit of talent outside. There are so many guys we are still looking at. It will be similar to what we ran the last couple years at Mountain View.” – Contact Jason Skoda at 480-898-7915 or

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

(Special to AFN)

By Jason P. Skoda

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Overuse injuries a growing problem in Arizona youth baseball, coaches say By Michael Boylan ‘Year-round baseball is one thing that’s killing our sport,” Horizon High School head coach Eric Kibler says. “It’s a big fatigue factor,” says Kibler, who has led the Huskies’ program since 1981. “When you get fatigued, you get injured.” In Arizona, where the weather is almost always great, baseball is a yearround sport. However, there is growing evidence that year-round baseball is causing both physical and mental strain on young players. Yavapai College pitching coach Jerry Dawson, who began his coaching career in 1972 at Chaparral High School, says that players who decide to play the game all year could be taking a big risk. “You can go 12 months a year if you chose to do it,” Dawson says. “I don’t think it’s wise. I don’t think it’s smart. I think overuse is becoming a major red flag in our sport.” Both coaches say pitchers are most at risk. Kibler even mentioned that major league teams may factor this constant play into their draft evaluations. “When they look at pitchers, sometimes they look at a kid that rests,” Kibler says. The American Sports Medicine

(Lindsey Wisniewski/Cronkite News)

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Yavapai College pitching coach Jerry Dawson doesn’t think it’s a good idea for baseball players to play the game year-round.

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | Ahwatukee Foothills News | ahwatukee.com

Alijah Gammage (3) is expected to be one of the top newcomers around the East Valley after transferring to Desert Vista from Valley Christian.

By Jason P. Skoda

(Special to AFN)

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS WRITER

Changes are bound to happen in any endeavor, but high school football in Arizona has seen a major overhaul since Thanksgiving weekend, when the last game was played. There were more than 40 coaching changes across the state, including eight in the East Valley. The official count on transfers from schools or move-ins from other states is harder to tally, but there are plenty of players who will be wearing new uniforms this fall. The question is, how many of the newcomers will make a real difference? Here is a look at some of the individuals

Paul Moro, coach, Marcos de Niza

There is no order to this list, but if it were ranked, picking a coach with more than 300 career wins is a solid choice for No. 1. The Padres are coming off a state title appearance but suddenly needed a new coach after Sean Morin resigned. The search ended with Moro, who had two mediocre years at Poston Butte after leading Blue Ridge to 13 state titles in 30 seasons. Moro has 324 wins and sits seven behind Vern Friedli (331) for most wins in Arizona history.

The Padres have the talent—led by quarterback Nazareth Greer, wide receiver Marcus Naisant and defensive lineman Anthony Nicastro—to give Moro a shot at the record this year in the 5A Conference.

Donte Lindsey, cornerback, Mountain Pointe

His availability for the first five games is still in question, depending on whether Cesar Chavez High administration signs off on the transfer, but his talent is not. “He can be really good,” Mountain Pointe coach Norris Vaughan said. “He’s shown us a lot already. We have two really good corners and we feel he can be just as good.” Last year as a sophomore with the Champions, he had three interceptions, 22 passes defensed, 54 tackles and a blocked punt. He also scored two touchdowns on interception and fumble returns. The Pride defense is loaded, but Lindsey will certainly see the field in some capacity.

Josh Alexander, running back, Williams Field

The 5-foot-10, 171-pounder could take advantage of Steve Campbell’s need to run the ball. The Black Hawks had one of the most dynamic passing trios (QB Weston Murphy, wide receivers Justis Stokes and Max Fine) a year ago, but still ran it 420 times last year. Alexander, who came over from Poston Butte, will have plenty of competition from other established Black Hawks. But Campbell also likes to spread the ball around, so he should make an impact.

Alijah Gammage, wide receiver/defensive back, Desert Vista

Gammage is a terrific athlete that played wide receiver as a freshman and quarterback as a sophomore for Valley Chrisitan. He will get a shot in the Thunder defensive backfield that only returns only one starter from a year ago. Gammage, a junior, also played basketball, baseball and competed in track so he should help out several of the Thunder programs depending on his eligibility based on the AIA’s new transfer rule.

Cade Matthews, outside linebacker, Higley

A sturdy 6-feet-1, 212-pounds, this junior can be an immediate help to a Knights defense that struggled against most teams last year. Higley gave up 423 points in 11 games,

including at least 30 points in eight games.

Mike Fell, head coach, Mountain View

The Toros have struggled to find footing in recent years after a change in the neighborhood and a couple of coaching changes. Toro Nation is dying to have another long playoff run and Fell might be the guy turn it around as he did with several programs in Ohio. The last resurrection came at Lima Senior Hightrr. A favorable schedule could have the Toros turning into a top eight playoff seed in Fell’s first year.

Kapi Sikahema, head coach, Mesa

The Jackrabbits showed life last year for the first time since 2009 by making the playoffs and winning eight games. Two things soon slowed their momentum. Coach Scot Hare resigned and the Jackrabbits were placed back into the state’s biggest classification. Step in Sikahema, who is a throwback to the ’80s when he played for the program. He’ll try to keep things going forward while linking the program to its past.

Caleb Humphrey, safety, Desert Vista

A football player from the heart of SEC Country brings instant intrigue, and so far this Alabama move-in has been impressive fitting into the Thunder defense. “He comes up on the running game really well,” Hinds said. “He lays a hit. We really like him.”

Chad DeGreiner, head coach, Mesquite

DeGreiner’s offensive system, which is influenced by his days as an Arena Football quarterback, can be difficult to digest and the personnel has to match just right. The Wildcats are in a tough 5A Conference region. Early results might not be pretty but his teams at Cactus Shadows and Mountain View always knew how to put points on the board. For now, DeGreiner is more focused on the culture and gaining trust. “I just want them to compete every play,” he said. “Discipline the most important thing that needs to be developed. “We will have our first game, and we can eventually eliminate costly mistakes, but if you don’t have players that compete every play, then there is trouble.” – 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 @AhwatukeeFN on Twitter.

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ahwatukee.com | Ahwatukee Foothills News | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 Page 59

See

PITCHING from page 57

throwing of a baseball. The surgery replaces the torn ligament with a tendon from somewhere else in the person’s body. Tommy John surgery was first performed in 1974 by Dr. Frank Jobe on Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Tommy John. John went into the surgery with 124 wins and one All-Star selection. After surgery, he played 14 seasons with 164 wins and three All-Star selections. Dawson didn’t think Tommy John surgery would ever be something performed on pitchers who had not yet received their high school diploma. “I never heard of a Tommy John surgery for a high school kid when I was starting out in the 1970s,” Dawson says. But now at Yavapai, Dawson runs into

this problem more each year. According to the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine, more than half of the Tommy John surgeries in the U.S. between 2007 and 2011 were performed on patients between the ages of 15 and 19. Sometimes, the surgery is used not to repair damage already done but to give amateur players a competitive edge. “There is a growing perception that Tommy John surgery will improve a pitcher’s performance,” says Dr. Matthew Hansen, medical director of the Sports Medicine Program at Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert Medical Center. “But unless the pitcher has an injured ligament, that perception just isn’t true.” – Cronkite News reporters Trisha Garcia and Lindsey Wisniewski contributed to this report.

See

DENNY from page 55

winning the state title in 2011. “The guys are already working extremely hard,” he said. “My approach is to practice to perfection and be relentless on the field. I told a couple of the players it is the only way I know how to coach. “I wasn’t the most talented player on the field when I played so I had to work and I guess that approach is paying dividends now.” The Pride, which went 16-13 last year, brings back some quality players in Jaydon Brooks, Johnny Weaver, Logan White and freshman Carson Tucker.

Denny doesn’t have plans to do much during the fall ball session because he wants to make sure they are ready to go next season. “It’s not going to be very intensive,” he said. “I want the kids to play other sports and make getting back to baseball in February feel like Christmas. Most of these kids play on club and travel ball. It’s all good stuff, but I think it is also important to take a break so when the games count in April and May I want to be fresh and not getting burned out.” – Contact Jason Skoda at 480-898-7915 or jskoda@ahwatukee.com. Follow him on Twitter @JasonPSkoda.

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