East Valley Tribune - Thanksgiving 2017 by Times Media Group

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THE THANKSGIVING

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Mormon Temple lights up again PAGE

Gilbert Historical Museum Rebrands PAGE 4

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Holiday Edition

Thursday, November 23, 2017

Police on the lookout for Black Friday crime

INSIDE

This Week

BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY Tribune Staff Writer

olice departments across the East Valley are mobilizing to combat theft and other public safety issues on Black Friday. While police department data from several cities shows that November is a rather innocuous month for crime, Black Friday has an anecdotal reputation for increases in theft, violence and property damage due to the chaotic nature of the unofficial consumer-driven holiday. “Obviously, just the increase in the number of people shopping (is related to) an increase in the idea to commit theft because it is easy

COMMUNITY ........... 6

to maintain anonymity within the crowd,” Tempe Police Sgt. Ron Elcock said. Elcock added that property damage and personal injury – mostly related to car accidents in the parking lot – are also a significant issue on Black Friday. To avoid those accidents, he offered a simple piece of advice to shoppers. “Have patience,” Elcock said. “If you go out on Black Friday, you know the lines are going to be long and the parking lots are going to be crowded, so give yourself time and exercise patience (to avoid conflicts).” Tempe Police Department is going to increase the presence of officers in retail areas like Tempe Marketplace on Black Friday in order to deter bad behavior and quickly respond

Small businesses see see bigger uptick on Black Friday, study says

‘The Nutcracker’ offers new treats, twists this year

to issues. Other police departments in the East Valley are engaging in an informational campaign to help shoppers and businesses protect against theft. Patty Gallagher, Mesa Police Department crime prevention officer, visits businesses downtown at Mesa Riverview every year to hand out the department’s “Holiday Safety for Businesses” brochure and the “Shoplifting & Internal Theft Prevention” brochure, along with a robbery kit. All Mesa residents on the city’s citywide alerts list will receive the department’s crime See

CRIME on page 3

Ready for the holidays

BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY Tribune Staff Writer

espite its reputation as a boon for bigbox stores, Black Friday also provides a sales boost for small businesses. In fact, according to one business services firm, Black Friday has a more significant economic impact on local retailers than Small Business Saturday. Business software provider Womply analyzed transactions from 1,500 local retailers in Arizona in 2016 and found that Black Friday sales far outpaced sales on Small Business Saturday. Small Business Saturday was started by American Express in 2010 as a response to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. It takes

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2 THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017

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THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017

THE SUNDAY

Tribune EAST VALLEY

The East Valley Tribune is published every Sunday and distributed free of charge to homes and in singlecopy locations throughout the East Valley. To find out where you can pick up a free copy of the Tribune, please visit www.EastValleyTribune.com.

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CRIME

from page 1

prevention newsletter. The newsletter is also posted to social media sites like Facebook and Nextdoor. Police departments across the East Valley agreed that one of the most important things consumers on Black Friday can do to prevent theft is secure their vehicles, because parking lots are popular target for thieves. Gilbert Police Department will post consumer safety tips on social media reminding shoppers to lock cars, hide packages and pay attention their surroundings, Sgt. Darrell Krueger said via email. Prior to Black Friday, Gallagher sends out the “Annual Clean Out Your Car Day” flyer to Mesa residents, which reminds shoppers to remove anything of value from their vehicles before shopping. Some retailers also will opt to hire offduty officers to patrol stores and keep an

SMALL BUSINESSES

from page 1

place the Saturday after Thanksgiving and encourages shoppers to support local retailers. According to the data, the revenue the small businesses brought in on Black Friday was 175 percent of normal daily revenue. Comparatively, the shops brought in 126 percent of average daily revenue on Small Business Saturday. The most obvious reason for Black Friday’s impact on small businesses is name recognition. Quite simply, it has been around longer – references in a retail context date back to the 1960s – and has greater consumer participation. “There is a very natural gravitational pull from Black Friday,” Womply spokespman Brad Plothow said. “It is popular and gets people out of the house.” That participation benefits all retailers, regardless of size. “Local retailers will get a natural lift from people just being out of the house,” Plothow said. Despite the conclusions pulled from Womply’s data, local businesses in the East Valley have varied experiences this time of year. Chandler gift shop Sibley’s West is open on the Friday and Saturday following Thanksgiving but historically does much more business on Small Business Saturday. “(Black Friday is) a good holiday day for us, but our Small Business Saturday smokes it out,” Sibley’s West owner Michelle Wolfe said. “We are much busier

eye out for public safety issues. As of press time, Mesa Police Department had received 40 requests for officers at different store locations in Mesa for Black Friday. Stores throughout Chandler will hire off-duty police officers to help deal with the Black Friday rush. “These stores hired our officers, who are providing a visible presence (and) security for that location,” Chandler Police Detective Seth Tyler said via email. “These officers will conduct enforcement if needed.” The Chandler Police Department will also dispatch a dedicated officer to work at Chandler Fashion Center, the city’s preeminent retail destination. That officer will supplement the beat officers patrolling the area. Chandler Fashion Center is surrounded by one beat and borders two others. “With the addition of a dedicated officer to the mall property, we can have a number of resources available very quick-

NEWS

ly,” Tyler said. The end of Black Friday does not mark the end of the theft risk. The increased shopping brought on by the holidays extends through the New Year. According to State Farm, Arizona ranked sixth in the nation with 2,600 theft claims last year. December ranked second behind January for most theft claims in Arizona during that time. Because of that trend, residents need to stay vigilant in protecting their homes and purchases. Gilbert allows residents to request vacation watches for homes or business checks if they plan on leaving town for the holidays, Krueger said. Mesa Police’s Gallagher suggested that residents who are not home should have packages delivered to their work or a trusted neighbor. – Reach Wayne Schutsky at 480-898-6533 or wschutsky@timespublications.com.

pany has no plans to participate in Small Business Saturday, though, owner Chad Carling said. Similarly, Gilbert’s Shar’s Kitchen will be open for Black Friday and post some specials on social media in the days leading (Special to the Tribune) up to the event John and Michelle Wolfe own Sibley’s West in Chandler. She says the store but has no plans does more sales on Small Business Saturday than on Black Friday, which to observe Small runs counter to data in a new study. Business Saturday. To take advantage of the Black Friday on Small Business Saturday.” bump, Plothow suggests local businesses The Chandler store is planning on runoffer promotions in line with larger retailning specials for customers and will aners. He also said small businesses should nounce the details prior to the day. reach out to existing customers to pub“I think you are always going to have licize discounts and let them know the a subset of people who have an affinity store will be open. for buying local,” Plothow said. “Those “Optimize staffing and optimize your people are probably responding to the promotions,” he said. “If people underidea of shopping local on (Small Business stand you are open that day and are offerSaturday).” ing discounts, then they will come.” He added, “Other folks are more pragThe Womply data also pinpointed anmatic when shopping, and (local retailother day that local retailers can look to ers) have to clearly demonstrate that they for a sales boost – Dec. 23. The Arizona have sales or savings on par with other businesses tracked in the research brought Black Friday deals.” The experience at Mesa’s Furniture Plus in revenues 135 percent of normal daily revenue on that day. falls in line with the data. Plothow suggested that retailers stay Furniture Plus – which has been in open late as the holidays approach to take business in Mesa since 1983 – experiencadvantage of procrastination by shoppers. es a large uptick in traffic on Black Friday and is considering offering a giveaway or – Reach Wayne Schutsky at 480-898-6533 or raffle to customers this year. The com- wschutsky@timespublications.com.

NEWS 4 THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017

Gilbert Historical Museum rebrands to reflect wider mission

financially sustainable and relevant in the face of changing technology. The society took into consideration the demographics of Gilbert, with 37 percent he Gilbert Historical Museum is of residents under 19 years of age and althe link to the town’s past. most 25 percent over the age of 50, Kolar But for its future, it will be known said. as HD South. Hence, it adopted a new, inter generaThe center, which is run by the Gilbert tional programming model called ComHistorical Society, has been transforming munities for All Ages. itself during the past few years from a mere While the town’s demographics were repository of the town’s historic treasures complementary to the model, the socito a vibrant arts, culture and history hub ety noted that the nearly 250,000-strong under a “communities for all ages” model. population is lacking in arts and culture. To better reflect its new mission, it came Hence, it expanded the mission to inup with the name. HD South also hints to clude not just history, but all arts and culits location, at the southern gateway to the ture, Kolar said. Heritage District. Last July, the center hired a part-time “We are very excited about the reprogram coordinator, Thom Hulen, who branding of our organization. Not only (Srianthi Perera/Tribune Staff) implemented a new line of interactive does it give us a new direction and focus, Kayla Kolar, executive director of HD South and Gilbert Historical Museum, cuts the ribbon during but the development of our programming the re-branding. She is flanked by Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels, left, and Katie Stringham, chair of programs including history cafes, science cafes, art workshops, storytelling, gardenand the overall elevation of arts and cul- Gilbert Historical Society. Other guests included Gilbert Town Council members. ing and bluegrass jam sessions. Almost all ture in the community will benefit residents and tourists alike,” said Kayla Ko- tion rooms – the Farming Room, Town as we look to the future of our commu- were designed to be intergenerational. The museum also remodeled a room lar, the center’s executive director. “As the Room and the School and Community nity,” she added. Kathy Tilque, president of Gilbert into an art gallery. Alan Fitzgerald, owner southern gateway to the Heritage District, Room – which tell the history story anew. Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels said that Chamber of Commerce, said that histor- of Art Intersection, a gallery in the Heriour plan now and in the future is to bring HD South is “an anchor” for the Heritage ic preservation is economic development. tage Building, moved his “Gallery 4” to more activity to that end of the district.” “Our Heritage District is a perfect ex- the space and curates most of the shows The re-branding was formerly an- District. “It’s the job and role of local govern- ample of that: a model of creating a place, there. The Gilbert Visual Art League holds nounced during a “friends and family” unveiling in the courtyard of the complex ment to contribute to preserve our town a sense of being, to understand our his- twice-yearly shows in the gallery as well. history. We have an important thing that tory, celebrate that with all of the memThe center hosted 59 new program recently. The director also announced plans to we need to be learning as we preserve our bers of our community is key,” she said. events during the last 11 months and welconstruct a new building, remodel the history and share it with our community “We look toward the historic society to comed more than a thousand new visicourtyard and renovate the buildings that members,” she said. “We want to expand lead us in that effort and just know tors, said Katie Stringham, chair of Gildate to 1913 and are on the National Reg- our opportunity, not repeat our mistakes that I’m right there beside you as we bert Historical Society. Following on the heels of new programister of Historic Places, a sole recognition of the past, but acknowledge them, wel- charge forward.” come them and move forward. The Gilbert Historical Society, which ming and the arts venue in addition to the for Gilbert. “That anchor will continue to guide us runs the museum, opened in 1982 as a center’s traditional history keeping role, it Guests toured three revamped exhibiprivate non-profit. It was run by volun- has introduced a new membership proteers until 2005, when it hired Kolar as its gram with entrance discounts and other first executive director. benefits, Stringham also said. MemberWhen Arizona’s economy took a nose- ship to HD South is available at many dive in 2008, the museum struggled to be levels; from the $40 individual to $1,000 D South, home of the Gilbert Historical Museum, has redone three of corporate. its exhibition rooms. The projects were completed with the help of Boy HD South will Scouts as their Eagle Scout projects. have a grand openThe Farming Room: Showcases the importance of agriculture in the commuing with free adnity and the farms that planted huge crops of cotton, hay and others. A new feamission 8 a.m. to ture is a porch to accommodate the storytelling program. Hands-on activities have 4 p.m. Saturday, been expanded to include a spinning wheel to which tools from the past could be Dec. 2. matched with the corresponding occupation. Also, visitors may read reproducGeneral opening tions of the Gilbert Enterprise from the porch. hours are 9 a.m. The Town Room: The history of Gilbert’s businesses and services as well as the to 4 p.m. Tuesday police and fire departments. Until the 1960s, Gilbert only had a volunteer-run to Saturday. Adfire department that alerted participants to the fire with the help of a brass horn. mission: $6 adults This room also answers the most common question posed by visitors: Why is it below 60 years, $5 a town and not a city? adults 60+ and $3 The School and Community Room: In addition to telling the history of Gilchildren ages 5-12. bert Public Schools, it also tells the story of the Higley School District and the Details: 480charter and private schools that now play a significant role in education. (Photo Credit/Special to the Tribune) 926-1577 or hdKellen Escoto, management assistant of the Gilbert Historical Society, The Community section highlights the growth of Gilbert from 1980 onward points to one of the many new displays that outlines Gilbert's rapid south.org. with history on libraries, community groups, hospitals and other entities. BY SRIANTHI PERERA Tribune Staff Writer

New exhibits for Gilbert Museum

growth.

THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017

COMMUNITY

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THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017

For more community news visit eastvalleytribune.com

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Performance of ‘The Nutcracker’ offers new treats, twists BY COLLEEN SPARKS Tribune Staff Writer

udiences can expect to see new choreography and other unexpected magic when they watch Ballet Etudes perform its 31st annual production of “The Nutcracker” this month and next in Chandler. About 100 dancers under age 18, joined by about 12 to 15 adults playing the Sugar Plum Fairy, parents of children and other more mature roles, will hit the stage in the classic holiday ballet Nov. 24-26 and Dec. 1-3 at Chandler Center for the Arts. They will dance the magical tale at Mesa Arts Center Dec. 8-17. The colorful Christmas ballet adopted from the story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” by author E.T.A. Hoffmann, tells the tale of Clara, a girl who receives a nutcracker from her godfather, a wizardly toymaker, and the toy comes to life. After a battle between the toys and an Army of mice, Clara and the nutcracker, who transforms into a prince, travel to the Land of Snow and the Land of Sweets, where they encounter waltzing flowers, dancing chocolate and other types of candy and other treats. At least five of the dancers in Ballet Etudes’ production of “The Nutcracker” live in Chandler, and they are all “very talented and very hardworking,” said Kellan Meko, resident choreographer and marketing manager for Ballet Etudes. Ballet Etudes is a pre-professional youth ballet company in Gilbert in existence as a nonprofit since 1987. Meko said one of the goals of her mother, Ballet Etudes artistic director Sharon Seder Meko, is to “give the audience something new, whether it’s a new costume or a new set” every year. This year the Nutcracker costume is new, as well as the Dew Drop Fairy costume for the Waltz of the Flowers soloist, Kellan said. New snow machines will allow snow to fall continuously in a snow scene of “The Nutcracker,” she added. Dancers will perform new choreography Kellan created for the court scene and new choreography made by chore-

(Photos by Kellan Meko/Ballet Etudes)

Dancers in the Garland Corps rehearse the Waltz of the Flowers at Ballet Etudes in Gilbert. The dancer in the front is Audrey Sullivan and the dancer right behind her is Jessica Hardin.

ographer Astrit Zejnati for Spanish Hot Chocolate. Zejnati had danced with the Pacific Northwest Ballet and Ballet Arizona. Another twist is while the Spanish dance is normally performed by one male and one female dancer, this season two female dancers will do the honors. “It’s kind of a little battle between the two, more dramatic,” Kellan said. The audience will also see a slightly different ending to the ballet this year. “I think everyone will enjoy the changes that we made,” Kellan said. “A lot of people who go see ‘The Nutcracker’ with their families now tend to have gone and seen it as a child with their families. So much music in the ballet is easily recognizable. Even if you’re not a regular theater-goer, it’s a fun ballet. There’s really something for everyone. It’s an uplifting ballet.” “The Nutcracker” auditions were open to anyone, but dancers who already are

part of Ballet Etudes company are guaranteed a role in that ballet, as well as “Cinderella” in the spring. Company members still must audition so they are placed in the appropriate roles. Young children to adults can take dance classes at BE School of Dance, which is the home of Ballet Etudes, 2401 E. Baseline Road in Gilbert. For tickets and more information about Ballet Etudes’ “The Nutcracker” at Chandler Center for the Arts: chandlercenter. org. To buy tickets for the company’s performances (Photos by Kellan Meko/Ballet Etudes) of “The Nutcracker” at Bridget Morgan of Mesa rehearses as the Bon Bon Fairy for Ballet Mesa Arts Center: mesaa- Etudes’ performance of “The Nutcracker.” The ballet will be performed at Chandler Center for the Arts and Mesa Arts Center. rtscenter.com.

COMMUNITY

THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017

Mormon Temple light show returns to Mesa for 38th year Tribune News Staff

t wouldn’t be Christmas in the East Valley without the bright lights shining at the Mesa Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. For the 38th straight year, the lights will turn on Friday, Nov. 24, and shimmer from 5 to 10 p.m. daily through Dec. 31. Adding to the festivities are nightly concerts at 7 p.m. Dec. 1-25 in front of the church’s visitor center, 525 E. Main St. Performers range from bell ringers to soloists to children’s choirs to quartets and everything in between, said Stacey Farr, director of the Mesa Temple Christmas lights project. Also staying on display through Dec. 31 are 100 nativity sets inside the visitor center. People can view those from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Artificial trees are decked out with lights and decorations and clustered together on the west side of the visitor center, offering people a chance to feel like they’re in a forest. QR code reader machines were added several years ago to the holiday display

and they return this year. Eight display stands are scattered around. People can use smartphones to read the QR codes and be automatically linked to a portion of the LDS website with short videos. Church members view the light display as a gift to the community that has “grown to a wondrous display that is so serene and peaceful,” a spokeswoman said. The annual show began when volunteers put 5,000 little blue lights on top of the visitor center. Now, hundreds of thousands of lights are spread throughout the expanse of the temple grounds. There are too many lights to count. But, for perspective, the big star that is suspended high above the display contains 60,000 lights. And, the tall palm trees alone hold 100,000 lights. A conversion of all the lights to LEDs has been underway for several years. Parking is available on both sides of the temple and the Valley Metro parking lot at Main. Lesuer, across the street from the temple, has 525 parking spaces. Handicap parking spots are available, ramps lead to all parts of the display and the church has some wheelchairs in the visitor center which people can use.

(Special to the Tribune)

The annual Christmas lights show at the Mesa Temple began with 5,000 lights 38 years ago. Now, there are hundreds of thousands of lights all around the grounds.

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BUSINESS 8 THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017

Business EastValleyTribune.com

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Here’s what to shop for when you’re shopping local ommended gift item? We are offering 15 percent off the “Tastes and Treasures” cookbook, a storytelling cookbook of historic Arizona. The cookbook includes beautiful photography and recipes from well-known historic restaurants in Arizona. We also have a selection of beautiful Frank Lloyd Wright merchandise, beautiful jewelry, and copper splash, geodes and minerals. Why should someone consider this gift? The purchase of these lovely gifts supports the Arizona Historical Society, whose mission is to preserve and share Arizona’s rich history. We are a nonprofit organization. Help us preserve our past for the future!

Tribune Staff Report

hanksgiving begins shopping season and the coming of Small Business Saturday. Shoppers are encouraged to spend at their local shops, supporting local workers and keeping the money at home. With the help of Local First Arizona, here are some local businesses and their picks for the best holiday gifts this year. The list will continue Sunday in the East Valley Tribune.

Arizona Salsa & Spice Company

Owner: Debbie Roberti Location: 909 E. Main St., Mesa. Or order online at azspiceco.com. Contact: 480-632-2168, droberti@azspiceco.com What does your business do? We are a family owned and operated manufacturer of all-natural salsas, sauces, rubs, dips and seasonings. We are open to the public Wednesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and online 24/7 at azspiceco.com. What is your holiday special or recommended gift item? We have a large assortment of gift baskets. Pick one online or come in. Pick your items and we will custom make your basket and ship it for you. Why should someone consider this gift? A healthy gift (no additives, preservatives, MSG, low or no sodium and low or no sugar) that has a true taste of Arizona makes a great holiday gift. It’s all about the flavor. We love to add the personal touch to everything we do for you. We listen and we do it your way. Sample our products and hand-pick your own all-natural award-winning gift made right here in Mesa. Customize your own card and we will ship it with your gift.

(Kimberly Carrillo/Tribune Staff Photographer)

Bob Roberti prepares chiles to make salsa for the Arizona Salsa & Spice Company.

tion for your digital camera, art from the gallery exhibition. Our online store: artintersection.com/shop Why should someone consider this gift? Using a camera, especially a new one given as a holiday gift, can be overwhelming. Our instructors are experts in photography and the use of a camera. One-on-one instruction will remove the mystery around a new camera. During November and December, we have an exhibition of art that is priced just right for that special person in your life.

AZ Bitters Lab

Owners: Bill and Lillian Buitenhuys Location: Chandler Contact: azbitterslab.com

AZ Heritage Center

Art Gallery and Photographic Arts Lab

Owner: Alan Fitzgerald Location: Art Intersection, 207 N. Gilbert Road, Suite 201, Gilbert Contact: alan@artintersection.com, 480361-1118 What does your business do? Art gallery and photographic arts lab. What is your holiday special or recommended gift item? One-on-one instruc-

tails like the pros in your home. What is your holiday special or recommended gift item? We recommend Figgy Pudding bitters for your holiday gifting for friends, co-workers, family, or best of all, yourself! Figgy Pudding bitters are a blend of cinnamon, cardamom, clove and coriander with dried fruits and citrus. Perfect for bourbon and rum drinks plus our bitters can be used as a substitute for vanilla extract in your holiday whipped cream! Why should someone consider this gift? Bring us some figgy pudding! This gift has the aromas and flavors of the holiday. You can leave a Figgy Manhattan for St. Nick this year instead of milk and cookies.

What does your business do? We make unique and flavorful cocktail bitters to spice up your drinks. We supply bitters to over 250 of the best bars and restaurants in Arizona and now you can make cock-

Owner: Arizona Historical Society Location: 1300 N. College Ave., Tempe Contact: 480-929-0292, or azheritagecenter@azhs.gov What does your business do? We are a museum featuring the history of Central Arizona. Special exhibits during holidays: “Footprints on the Desert: Frank Lloyd Wright in Arizona”; “Phoenix Phabulous History Murals” and “Sonoran Silver: Preserving Sonoran Desert Treasures.” We also host special events and programs, both educational and entertaining. What is your holiday special or rec-

Carolyn’s Classics Gourmet Jams & Jellies

Owners: Tim Oline and Sara Rascon Location: 1008 E. Vista Del Cerro Drive, Suite B, Tempe Contact: 602-481-8049

What does your business do? Gourmet small-batch jams, jellies, fruit butters, preserves and sauces. All source as much local ingredients as we can. We only use the best ingredients, like non-GMO cane sugar, in all our products. What is your holiday special or recommended gift item? We have a gift set, Arizona Jelly Trio, which is a custom-made gift box set with prickly pear cactus jelly, red pepper jelly and red raspberry jalapeño jelly. Why should someone consider this gift? This is a representation of a total gourmet gift, something that almost everyone likes with lots of Arizona desert attitude.

Cartel Coffee Lab

Owners: Jason and Amy Silberschlag Location: 225 W. University Drive, Suite See

GIFTS on page 9

BUSINESS

THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017

GIFTS

from page 8

101, Tempe Contact: cartelcoffeelab.com

the first year’s harvest. We are one of the few roasters who was able to get their hands on this very limited coffee, seen elsewhere only in parts of Canada and Australia, and we’ve made them available to the people of Arizona.

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Cookie Girl Cookie Shop

What does your business do? We source specialty coffees from around the world and roast them right here in Tempe to share them with our community in Arizona. What is your holiday special or recommended gift item? We have 200-gram bags of coffee ($28) from a very small lot of experimental Gesha variety; the coffee is cultivated by renowned coffee producer Ricardo Zelaya at the Santa Clara estate in Antigua, Guatemala. Why should someone consider this gift? It’s a unique heirloom variety of coffee originally found in Malawi in southeastern Africa. Only 15 of the total 500 seeds survived when planted at the nursery at the Santa Clara estate, and this is

Owner: Alexis Carter Location: Chandler Contact: cookiegirlcookieshop.com, 928-482-2266. What does your business do? Create and bake cookies and cookie products What is your holiday special or recommended gift item? Cookie mixes Why should someone consider this gift? Cookie mixes make great gifts. All of our mixes are made with all-natural ingredients and include directions for baking. We have traditional and wheatfree options. Our flavors include oatmeal chocolate chip, wheat-free chocolate chip, shortbread with pecan, sweet baby chocoSee

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GIFTS on page 10

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BUSINESS 10 THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017

GIFTS

from page 9

late chip (dark chocolate cookie). Our mixes are sold at the Queen Creek Olive Mill in Queen Creek and on our online store.

Eagle Printing

Owner: Trevor Maxon Location: 5235 S. Kyrene Road, Suite 104, Tempe Contact: 602-365-0640, extension 403 What does your business do? We are a veteran-owned local print shop, offering printing, sign making, printed apparel and graphic design. What is your holiday special or recommended gift item? Custom greeting cards, custom T-shirts, custom mugs, custom posters, custom mounted canvas, custom flags. Why should someone consider this gift? It’s always fun to create something instead of buying something over the counter. Did you take Christmas pictures? Let us put them on greeting cards, or print them on artist canvas. Does your child have a favorite character? We can print a custom poster for them. Need something for grandma/grandpa or a co-worker? Let us print a custom mug. Ever thought about having family shirts for the Disney trip, or

a funny custom shirt for Christmas? We can do that!

Green Light Garage

Owner: Ken Early Location: 4460 E. Main St., Suite 119 Contact: 480-807-3064 What does your business do? Automotive maintenance and repair What is your holiday special or recommended gift item? Until Dec. 31, anyone who comes in for service then writes a review on our review site (garagefly.com/ shop/green-light-garage-mesa) will receive a $5 e-gift card to Starbucks. Why should someone consider this gift? Green Light Garage offers high-quality, fair-priced automotive maintenance and repair services.

Grotto Gallery by Arizona Artisans Collective

Owner: Arizona Artisans Collective LLC / Miriam Carlson-Maier Location: 132 E. 6th Street, Tempe. Contact: grottogallery@az-artisanscollective.com, 480-442-2349 or az-artisanscollective.com/grottogallery.html What does your business do? Grotto Gallery was developed as a new exhibition venue for the members of Arizona Artisans Collective, a local group dedicated to helping emerging Arizona artisans de-

velop the business side of their craft. What is your holiday special or recommended gift item? Locally crafted original artwork by Arizona artisans Why should someone consider this gift? Because if you wish to give something truly special, and unique to someone you treasure in your life, there is nothing that compares to a piece of handmade artwork crafted by a local artist who brings purpose and love to his/her work. Virtually all of what we offer are one-of-a-kind pieces with personal and meaningful stories. Surround yourself with beauty and art!

Happy Tails Barkery

Owner: Holly Pace Location: Queen Creek Contact: Happy Tails Barkery, P.O. Box 2241, Queen Creek, 480-433-9080 What does your business do? We specialize in gluten-free, grain-free and GMOfree dog treats. We also have dog birthday cakes, PUPcakes and Doggy Fro Yo. What is your holiday special or recommended gift item? For the Christmas season, we bake decorated dog cookies Why should someone consider this gift? People love to spoil their pets, and this is a fabulous way to show them some love. Our website is happytailsbarkery.co for products, Instagram @htbarkery, Facebook: happytailsbarkery.

Kettle Heroes Artisan Popcorn

Owners: Rudi and Aaron Sinykin Location: 1705 W. Ruby Drive, Suite 107, Tempe Contact: 480-406-8935, info@kettleheroes.com, kettleheroes.com What does your business do? We handcraft artisan popcorn, kettle corn and caramel corn in small batches, using only all-natural, gluten-free, nut-free and kosher ingredients. We specialize in designing and producing custom-labeled popcorn gift tins, party kits and favors. What is your holiday special or recommended gift item? Custom business gift tins. Why should someone consider this gift? Our tins feature a decorative raffia wrap, three signature popcorn flavors, and custom designed top and side labels to promote your brand and highlight your gift message.

The Gift Guide will continue Sunday in the East Valley Tribune.

THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017

12 THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017 OPINION

Opinion EastValleyTribune.com

@EVTNow

For more opinions visit eastvalleytribune.com /EVTNow

A list of Arizona things for which to be thankful BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Tribune Columnist

hen so much of the news leaves you feeling dipped in muck, it is entirely possible to lose perspective. Fortunately, the calendar sets aside one whole day annually to do nothing but give thanks. And even here in Arizona, ground zero for so many idiocies little and big, from politics to sports to cultural phenomena, we still have much to be thankful for today. Like what, you ask? Well, allow me to make a list. In 2017, I am thankful for … The state of Alabama – I’ve often heard it said that the Arizona state motto, “Ditat Deus,” means “God enriches.” My Latin may be rusty, but I’m pretty sure it means “Thank God for Alabama.” From U.S. Senate candidates accused of dating pubescent teenagers to rampant homophobia to ranking last in virtually every education measure known to man, Alabama

has singlehandedly ensured that our home state looks like Nirvana by comparison. I’ve driven through Alabama any number of times. The best thing you can say about it? It ends. Mesa Mayor John Giles and Tempe Mayor Mark Mitchell – One’s a conservative Republican, the other a moderate Democrat. And yet both municipal leaders display a genuine commitment to nonpartisan problem-solving and to improving the quality of life for every resident in their respective communities – not just the residents who might vote for them. You get the sense when you talk to them, each guy wants to do right by his hometown, not simply stick a finger in the wind to best position himself for the next elected office. Refreshing. The 18th hole – Golf is a great sport and I’m addicted, but let’s be honest: Golf rounds take way too long, especially this time of year, when Jerry from Waukesha shows up in his Winnebago and Packers hat. Whichever 15th-century Scotsman

invented the game had about 22 percent more attention span than was necessary. Frankly, 14 holes would have been just fine. Ron Wolfley – The Arizona Cardinals are again unwatchable, unlistenable and unlovable, except for color commentator Wolfley’s ability to make you laugh at each Sunday’s train wreck. Between the overcomplicated gridiron jargon – “they’re in a Cover 6 and you gotta shoot that A gap, basinonians” – plus all the slobberknocker bashing, bloodsport references and warrior metaphors, I’d listen to Wolfley narrate my grocery list. I’d be baffled and all we’d buy is 312 pounds of red meat, but it sure would beat watching a Cardinals game. Every cop in the Valley – At a time when America has never been more conflicted about law enforcement, it takes a special breed of individual to risk their life to keep an ungrateful public safe. Are there bad cops? Yes, and we should weed them out. But the other 99 percent do danger-

ous work for relatively low pay amid the nastiest atmosphere imaginable. They deserve our undying gratitude. Glendale’s cool mom-and-pop eateries – I don’t care where you live in this Valley, the next time you want an authentic culinary delight, visit Haus Murphy’s (5739 W. Glendale Ave.) or Little Saigon (7016 N. 57th Ave.). Then finish up by visiting Lisa at A Shot of Java (7003 N. 58th Ave.) for a Mayan Mocha and a cookie. To. Die. For. I promise. I could go on, a veritable gratitude machine, but we can’t take up valuable advertising space. Suffice it to say, you can find good in whichever direction you turn your gaze. I’m eternally grateful for turkey, Detroit Lions football and a nap. But this year, I’m working hard to give thanks on more than just the fourth Thursday in November. Even if that means merely being glad I don’t live in Alabama. – David Leibowitz has called the Valley home since 1995. Contact david@leibowitzsolo.com.

Make a difference this holiday season: Buy Local BY ERICA FETHERSTON Tribune Guest Writer

ou may have thought about your holiday spending budget for this year, but have you thought about where that money goes once you’ve spent it? Americans are expected to spend nearly $670 billion this holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation. That figure is more than the annual gross domestic product, the total dollar value of all goods and services produced over a year, for most of the countries in the world, including Argentina, Sweden and Belgium. So, what’s the impact of this huge amount of holiday spending? Studies show that when you spend your money with locally owned businesses – businesses that are headquartered here in Arizona as well as owned and operated

by Arizonans – up to four times more money will stay in the local economy than if you spent that money at a national chain or global online retailer. Local companies hire local accountants, graphic designers, website developers and others, which creates more job opportunities right here at home. If each holiday shopper shifted just 10 percent of their spending from national chains to independent businesses this holiday season, that would add up to a huge investment in supporting job creation in our neighborhoods with more diversified revenue that creates opportunities for residents. It’s a lot easier, and more affordable, to buy local for the holidays than you may imagine. Visit your local farmer’s market or any of the Bashas’ family of stores for preparing your holiday meals, or choose local products like Hickman’s Family Farm Eggs, Shamrock Farms dairy products, Danzeisen Dairy milk and others while shopping

at the supermarket. Keep an eye out for “Local Product” stickers and signs that many stores are now proudly displaying. Stop by local craft and arts fairs for holiday gift inspiration, or visit your local bookstore or boutique for a range of gift ideas to make any Arizonan happy. If you’re bringing family into town, choose local entertainment options like Harkins Theatres or take them to one of our many great local restaurants. Other easy gifts include a bottle of Arizona wine, a six-pack of Arizona beer and even services like a year’s worth of haircuts or oil changes from a local business. Shifting your spending this holiday season is only the beginning. Buying from locally-owned businesses is more than just purchasing unique products from boutiques; it’s an economic strategy for creating prosperity for all Arizonans. And if you shop around, you don’t have to spend more money. Just

visit the Local First Arizona online directory at localfirstaz.com for hundreds of local businesses headquartered in the East Valley. Local businesses are the foundation for a strong and vibrant community. Entrepreneurial diversity and opportunity is essential to job creation and reducing poverty. Keeping our money circulating in Arizona is the key to building community wealth that continues to reinvest in the places where we live and work. Our money is our power, and with power comes responsibility. You have an impact on building prosperity for all Arizonans every day when you choose to spend your money with local businesses. Take the pledge to Buy Local for the holidays, and know that you’ll be making a difference and creating an Arizona we’re all proud to call home. – Erica Fetherston is communications director for Local First Arizona & Local First Arizona Foundation.

THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017

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14 THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017 SPORTS

Sports & Recreation EastValleyTribune.com @EVTNow /EVTNow

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Book tells the stories of athletes’ retired numbers BY GREG MACAFEE Tribune Sports Editor

f you’ve ever sat down at a local high school athletics field or in a gymnasium and seen numbers hanging from the rafters or displayed on a fence, you’ve wondered, “Whose numbers are those and why are they there?” Every number has a special reason for being there, and for the past year, 30-year high school referee and umpire Scott Hanson tracked down the story behind every single one in his second book, titled “What’s Your Number?” “It fascinates me, even though I know now, but when I go to these schools and I look in the trophy cases or I see the banners, I still think how cool it would be to be one of those people,” Hanson said. “But, I also think how sad it would be to be one of those people and nobody have any idea why their number is there.” Some of the stories that Hanson uncovered came from conversations with athletic directors or coaches. Others came from a librarian, a longtime coach and even an extended family member. Several of the numbers have been retired for many different reasons. Some are for the success of the athlete and others are retired because of what the player did after their career. Then there are the numbers retired to honor the legacy a player left behind. “There 186 individuals who have had their numbers retired at high schools in Arizona, and I would say each one of them is a unique and interesting story,” Hanson said. Nathan Martens, No. 61 at Queen Creek High School from the class of 2003, played center on the football team and was named an All-Star for baseball in his senior year. He was also in Future Farmers of America and was named the president during his final year. According to Hanson’s book, Martens enlisted in the U.S. Navy after he graduated. In 2005, just 10 days after being stationed at Camp Wolf in Al Qaim, Iraq, Martens was killed in a vehicle rollover. To honor Marten’s memory, a sign on the wall in the Queen Creek weight room, “Strength and Honor,” bears his

(Greg Macafee/Tribune Staff)

Scott Hanson, a former high school referee and umpire, tracked down the story behind retired Arizona high school numbers for his book, “What’s Your Number?”

name. Queen Creek high school also honors his memory with the Nathan Martens Memorial Scholarship, which is awarded to recipients based on athletics, community involvement, service, leadership, character and academics. Joe Jackson, No. 30 at Hamilton High, is one of the few numbers retired in the Chandler Unified School District. Jackson was in the class of 2007 and was a defensive back and wide receiver on the football team. During the 2005 state playoffs, Jackson suffered a paralyzing injury during a practice leading up to the semifinals. Jackson didn’t let his injury stop him. He returned to Hamilton and graduated. He has continued his education at Arizona State University, where he cofounded the Joe Jackson Foundation. The foundation’s focus is improving the quality of life for children with spinal cord injuries. One way Jackson likes to contribute is by showing how you can have an active lifestyle, and he chooses to lead by example. Jackson acts as the spokesman for Saguaro Scuba and he is also a national championship rugby player for the Phoenix Heat at the Ability360 Sports and Fitness complex.

Some stories mix both the athletic talents of a student-athlete and their commitment to the school and the surrounding community. Hanson thought one story that stuck out the most was that of Highland High football player Marquis Cooper. “His number isn’t officially retired, but they don’t issue it anymore,” Hanson said. “What they do is hand out MC 88 stickers to players for what they do off the field. I think that’s a tremendous tribute to somebody who really had an impact while he was in high school, then going on to college and the NFL.” Cooper graduated in the class of 2000 and went on to play football at the University of Washington before getting drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2004. Cooper died in a boating accident off Florida in 2009. There are plenty of stories like this throughout the East Valley, where special students went on to continue their careers at the next level. Players like Zach Davies, who is playing for the Milwaukee Brewers. While at Mesquite High, Davies finished with a 25-6 record, struck out 203 batters and threw 185⅓ innings.

Seton Catholic was another school where several athletes were highlighted for their athletic abilities. But, they have also honored student-athletes who have gone on to have a lasting effect on the school. Rosa Bernasconi and Christina Wirth were two who came out of Seton Catholic. Bernasconi was a three-sport athlete at Seton and graduated with the class of 1998. She was an all-state volleyball player and set records in both basketball and track, including state titles in the high jump, triple-jump and high hurdles. She led the Sentinels to two state championships, and her teams had a 110-7 record over her four-year varsity career. The AIA Scholar Athlete of the Year and Gatorade Player of the Year then went on to finish her basketball career at Loyola Marymount University. She missed most of her junior year due to injuries but is still ranked toward the top of many offensive and defensive categories at the school. No. 34 is honored at Seton Catholic for Christina Wirth, who was another exceptional athlete who went on to continue her career at the collegiate level. She had multiple Player of the Year Honors and won multiple gold medals with USA Basketball as a part of the U18 and U19 programs. Wirth went on to continue her career at Vanderbilt University, where she was the team MVP in her senior year and helped push Vandy to its 14th appearance in the NCAA championship. After Vanderbilt, Worth played one year in the WNBA, with the Indiana Fever, and then finished her basketball career overseas, playing four seasons and winning two national championships in Portugal and Spain. Michael Eubanks, No. 72, was another who left a lasting legacy at Seton Catholic. After graduating in 1986, Eubanks continued to roam the halls, first as a teacher and coach, then as an athletic director, and finally as the dean of students. Eubanks died in 2001 in an automobile accident. Seton now has a rallying cry called the “Power of 72” in honor of Eubanks. Seton also named the football stadium after him and awards a scholarship annually in his name.

THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

An Open Letter to the Players at the Big League Dreams Sports Park in Gilbert, Arizona and their Coaches, Parents, Families and Fans Twenty years ago this month, I founded Big League Dreams Sports Parks. My goal was to create recreational sports parks where youth and adult players could enjoy a unique experience as they participated in baseball, softball and soccer in a safe and exciting “big league” environment and their families could watch them in comfort. I now have two partners who, like me, are fathers who played baseball, coached their sons and now are involved with them in our business. We were invited by the Town of Gilbert to enter a public-private partnership with them to maintain and operate a new Big League Dreams Sports Park in Gilbert. In 2005, the Town contractually agreed with Big League Dreams Gilbert, LLC (“BLD”) to construct the Park using “first class quality construction practices and materials” with advice we could offer from our operational experience. Inexplicably, the Town chose to not avail itself of the years of experience that BLD offered to provide and as a result spent over $40 million to construct the Park. A nearly identical Big League Dreams Park in Mans-field, Texas was constructed at the same time for about $25 million. Despite our many and repeated inquiries, the Town has never been able to explain the significant cost overruns. For added insult to the substantial expense in construction, Gilbert’s contractor built the Park with many critical construction defects – crumbling concrete and as-phalt that rapidly became hazardous throughout the property; dugout drains that wouldn’t drain; eroding areas behind the dugouts; landscaping better suited for a church than a heavily used recreational park; slopes and ramps constructed too severely; poles that rusted prematurely; etc. Despite the daily challenges of operating with these construction defects, the Park has proven to be immensely popular since its 2008 opening. In 2016 alone, forty-one (41) weekend youth tournaments were held at the Park, at which 35,827 youth (including those playing in weekly leagues) participated. As of July 1, there were roughly 2,500 softball players and 1,000 soccer players uniquely registered in BLD leagues during 2017. The

Park has become a hub of community activity, with regular weddings, charity fundraisers and company parties. The construction of the park was so shoddy, the Town sued the general contractor, whom The Town hired to build the park, and recovered nearly $14 million. BLD did not participate in that lawsuit. In 2014 and 2015, the Town contracted for “life safety” remedial construction at the Park. Initially, the Town demanded that the Park be closed in its entirety. When BLD appealed to keep its business open, the Town relented and agreed to a two field at a time rotational closure. The plan worked – employees kept their jobs and players kept playing. The Town then delayed the start of the remaining remedial work, which increased costs. Further, the Town failed to seek recovery from its contractor for the reconstruction of the decorative outfield walls - a defect that was pointed out to the Town long ago. Then, the Town unilaterally advised us that the Park would be closed in its entirety on September 7 for a period of 12 to 18 months for the remaining remedial repairs. (A puzzling directive considering the entire complex was built from scratch in less than a year.) BLD again objected and again proposed rotational two field closures which would enable our 85 BLD employees to keep their jobs and our patrons to keep playing. Neither Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels, despite personal appeals and repeated formal requests, nor any member of the Gilbert Town Council, would even meet with us to discuss a solution. The Town also attempted to fault BLD for the condition of the Park despite having collected $14 million from its contractor for faulty construction. The Town expressed M.A. Mortenson’s negligent construction thusly in that litigation: “[n] either the Town nor BLD-Gilbert can ‘preserve’ or ‘keep’ the ‘existing’ features in good repair throughout their useful life, because Mortenson designed and constructed the features in a defective condition with little or no useful life.”1 Just how were we to maintain defective and crumbling concrete? Furthermore,

why would BLD be asked by the Town to spend money for capital projects when they had told us that the Park would be closed for as long as 18 months? Doing so would make absolutely no sense. Again, despite our repeated requests for a meeting, the Town re-fused to simply meet to discuss a cooperative effort for resolution. During the period of time when BLD was seeking to meet with the Town, BLD also ad-vised the Town that it would abide by any court order concerning the closure of the Park. Rather than seek such an order, the Town declared the Park unsafe and then, using this declaration as a pretext, closed the Park using its municipal police powers. On July 7, without advance warning to us or our players or teams, with a strong showing of police force and while threatening to remove the general manager who was trying to provide notice to those persons who were traveling to a scheduled tournament, the Town seized the Park. The Town officials made it clear that the general manager would be physically escorted off the property by Town police and that if he refused he would be subject to arrest. Despite being aware of this issue long before, the Town suddenly asserted that bolts used to anchor the decorative outfield walls were ¼” shorter than spec-ified. Then, it retained an “expert” to opine that the bolts “could” create a safety hazard during the monsoon season. A second engineering firm did a “peer review” of the first report for the Town without, it appears, ever inspecting the Park or forming an independent opinion. The Town’s attorney even explained in open court that patrons at the Park were at risk of “flying projectiles” from the graphics used on the decorative walls. It is important to note that these very same bolts had been in place for over ten (10) years with no sign of a reduction in strength. BLD, at its own expense, retained the well regarded structural engineering firm of Caruso Turley Scott, Inc. to evaluate the alleged safety concerns. The firm first inspected the Park and noted, “…I would give a grade of ‘A’ to the steel columns, steel column bases, and the

walls regarding their structural integrity.” There was no evidence of weakness in any of the supports, and all tested well above the safety standard required by the Town’s building code. The reports of the Caruso Turley Scott firm, and pictures of the load testing, can be found on the BLD website (http://gilbert.bigleaguedreams.-com/closure-info) or on the BLD Facebook page (http:// www.fb.com/BLDGilbert). Additional pictures are soon to follow. Since the forcible takeover of the Park, no construction activity has been observed. The Town did circulate photos of alleged BLD maintenance failures in an attempt to deflect blame for its original and remedial construction mismanagement. Deceptively, many of these photos were taken after the forcible seizure of the Park (when BLD could no longer access the Park to maintain it) or of original construction defects yet to be remedied. Our company now has 11 Big League Dreams Sports Parks in four states. In the 20 years we have operated, we have never been sued by one of our public partners or ever filed a lawsuit against one. For over 18 months Mayor Daniels and the rest of the Town Council have refused to meet with BLD in order to negotiate a reasonable solution to the construction issues, forcing us to file an action for relief in Arizona Superior Court. We will continue to fight to reopen the Park for our players, employees, tournament directors and especially the youngsters in the community who, with every passing day, continue to miss out on the opportunity to live out their Big League Dreams. We are extremely grateful for your loyal patronage over the past decade and we are overwhelmed by the tidal wave of support we’ve received from you. It is truly humbling.

Jeff Odekirk

Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer Big League Dreams USA, LLC www.BigLeagueDreams.com

1 Town of Gilbert’s Response to M.A. Mortenson’s Motion for Partial Summary Judgment, filed on May 30, 2014.

16 THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017

THE SUNDAY EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE | NOVEMBER 23, 2017

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