The Foothills Focus - Zone 1 - 04.07.2021 by Times Media Group

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This Week

Anthem Area Edition

NEWS................. 6

Wednesday, April 7, 2021

At MTA, it’s all about the children BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

Anthem establishes penalties for dog park violations

see MTA page 4

of the improv troupe and coming in on the spot. Their confidence just grows like crazy — on and off the stage. You can just see and feel it.” Litman teaches a myriad of classes at the MTA. She also plays a handful of roles — director of educational programming, production manager, stage manager, curriculum implementation, costumes and props. Her most important role is teaching the kids, Litman said. “There’s a good community feel at the theater,” she said. “I really love the kids at this theater. There’s a good group of the sweetest kids who are willing to learn.” The MTA managed to stay open during the pandemic, with many restrictions in place. The staff felt it was important to keep kids engaged as COVID-19 swept through the world.

he Anthem Skatepark renovation and expansion project is one step closer to fruition, as the final design and associated costs of around $1.3 million have been approved. Skateboarders, scooter riders, BMX bikers and roller-skaters will soon have new and improved elements to practice and master their skills, as the expanded and renovated skatepark will include a street skating plaza, pump track as well as construction and maintenance improvements

to its existing skatepark. The final design and the associated overall cost of $1,333,531 for these new feats and operational improvements were unanimously approved by the Anthem Community Council Board of Directors during a March 24 meeting. “It’s going to be a great skatepark when it’s all done,” said Terry Mullarkey, executive director of Anthem Community Council (ACC). Construction is expected to be complete between December and February, depending on how long it takes to secure Maricopa County permitting, Mullarkey said.

ierra Litman’s passion is teaching classes like theater, juggling, improv and film to children at the Musical Theatre of Anthem. She witnesses her students’ confidence build, as they become increasingly more comfortable on stage. “Some children are almost too scared to talk to me when they walk in for the first time,” said the affable Litman. “I had a young kid who came in for beginning puppetry. It was the first time they had done anything like this. I watched that kid go from really quiet and not being able to talk to being a part

Sierra Litman enjoys bringing confidence out of children and showing them that acting skills can carry over into “real life.” (Photo by Pablo Robles)

BUSINESS..........15

Anthem OKs final design, cost for skatepark expansion

FEATURES.........24

BY SARAH DONAHUE Foothills Focus Staff Writer

Totally Rolled Ice Cream truck serves smiles Scottsdale artist Suzie Black combines unrestained creatvity and mischief in art

OPINION.................... 12 BUSINESS.................. 15 FEATURES................. 22 CLASSIFIEDS............. 25 Zone

The board approved MayDall Construction & Pillar Design Studios to build and design the elements of the skatepark expansion and renovation project during a meeting at the end of October and signed contracts with the team in early December. Street skaters will soon be shredding on a brandnew street skating plaza with boxes, ledges, rails and stairs with plenty of clearance to jump down. The hockey rink will be repurposed to construct the street plaza, Mullarkey said. A pump track will also be part of the skatepark

see SKATEPARK page 5

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NEWS

An edition of the East Valley Tribune The Foothills Focus is published every Wednesday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout the North Valley. To find out where you can pick up a copy of The Foothills Focus, please visit www.thefoothillsfocus.com CONTACT INFORMATION Main number: 623-465-5808 | Fax: 623-465-1363 Circulation: 480-898-5641 Publisher: Steve T. Strickbine Vice President: Michael Hiatt Associate Publisher: Eric Twohey | 480-898-5634 | erict@thefoothillsfocus.com ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Display Advertising: 623-465-5808 Classifieds/Inside Sales: Elaine Cota | 480-898-7926 | ecota@timespublications.com TJ Higgins | 480-898-5902 | tjhiggins@timespublications.com Steve Insalaco | 480-898-5635 | sinsalaco@timespublications.com Advertising Office Manager: Lori Dionisio | 480-898-6309 | ldionisio@timespublications.com Director of National Advertising Zac Reynolds | 480-898-5603 | zac@thefoothillsfocus.com NEWS DEPARTMENT Executive Editor: Christina Fuoco-Karasinski | 480-898-5631 christina@timespublications.com Photographer: Pablo Robles | probles@timespublications.com Design: Nathalie Proulx | nproulx@timespublications.com Production Coordinator: Courtney Oldham | 480-898-5617 production@timespublications.com Circulation Director: Aaron Kolodny | 480-898-5641 | customercare@evtrib.com Proud member of :

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | APRIL 7, 2021

MTA from page 1

“Everyone wears masks at all times,” she said. “We take temperatures. There is a lot of pre-planning. That goes into every single thing we do. “We’ve been doing that since last year when everything started. For example, with my puppetry class, everyone had their own puppets and their own set. We spaced them out. They still managed to learn the skills they need. The show must go on.” A Glendale native who graduated from Mountain Ridge High School, Litman is a longtime theater lover. Now living in Carefree, she performed as an actress and singer from age 7 through high school.

When she entered high school, she began exploring the technical side of theater, like lighting, sound design, directing and stage managing. This interest has stayed with her. Now, she sprinkles theater and behind-the-scenes work into her classes. “That’s where I’m the most passionate,” she said. “All these elements bring theater to life. It’s more than the acting.” She graduated from NAU with a Bachelor of Science in elementary and special education. From there, she went on to teach sixthgrade English and theater for children in kindergarten through sixth grade. A full-time MTA employee, Litman recently worked on “Disney’s Moana Jr.,” “Annie Jr.”

and “Disney’s Lion King Jr.” on curriculum implementation, costume design, and props design. She served as production stage manager for “Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr.,” “Our Town” and “13! The Musical.” Litman is continuing her work at the MTA and looks forward to every new group of children that comes through the building. “I’ve been doing theater since I was a kid myself,” she said. “It’s fun to be the person I looked up to when I was a little kid — teaching the things I’ve learned to little ones is a good time. “Like I was saying earlier, I had a shy student who eventually joined improv. It was fun getting to see what they’ve been thinking inside of their head and they’re willing to say it.”

at 11 a.m. each Friday for State Farm Stadium in Glendale. Information about vaccination sites and how to schedule an appointment can be found at azhealth.gov/ findvaccine or by calling 1-844-542-8201. Maricopa County provides a map with vaccination sites and information for how to schedule at maricopa.gov/COVID19vaccinelocations or by calling 1-844-542-8201. There is also an email alert available for future pop-up vaccination events facilitated by Maricopa County available on the same web page. “We anticipate more and more vaccine reaching Arizona heading into April, making it possible now to expand prioritization,” Christ said. “We have been flexible and nimble throughout, while expanding the availability of state sites to vaccinate large numbers of people rapidly.” For those living in the Cave Creek, Carefree or Anthem, there are several vaccination providers in the area, including Fry’s, Walgreens, CVS and Walmart. Here is information about local shops, some of which are offering the vaccine: Cave Creek Walmart is not offering vaccines at this time. Safeway locations at 32551 N. Scottsdale Road and 3655 W. Anthem Way are offering the Moderna vaccine and are open to everyone over the age of 18. Appointments are required and can be made through albertsons.com. The Walgreens locations at 34406 N. Scottsdale Road; 2415 E. Union Hills

Road; and 29660 N. Tatum Boulevard are offering the Moderna vaccine for anyone over 18. Appointments on the website are updated hourly. Anyone without internet access can call 1-800-WALGREENS for assistance in booking an appointment. The Fry’s locations at 4815 E. Carefree Highway; 29440 N. Cave Creek Road; and 2800 W. Dove Valley Road are offering the Moderna vaccine, but only to people age 55 and older, educators and child care providers at this time. Appointments can be made at frysfood.com/covidvaccine. Anthem Walmart is out of the vaccine, but it anticipates getting more Pfizer vaccines soon. Appointments are required through walmart.com. The Fry’s located at 39508 W. Daisy Mountain Drive is offering Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines. The location is only open to people 55 and older, educators and child care providers at this time. All of the locations require patients to book an appointment, and inventory can change rapidly so it is best to keep checking for appointments online or by calling. “To everyone who has been vaccinated, I say thank you,” Ducey said. “To those who haven’t yet gotten your shot, I urge you to roll up your sleeve and help Arizona defeat COVID-19. This achievement is a credit to the health care workers, staff and volunteers who have worked tirelessly since December.”

Vaccinations are available in local spots BY TARA ALATORRE Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

lmost one-third of all Maricopa County adult residents have been vaccinated with at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine since Gov. Doug Ducey announced the state was expanding vaccination eligibility on March 24. The announcement allowed Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) to open its state-operated sites in Maricopa, Pima and Yuma counties for anyone older than 16 to receive the Pfizer vaccine, and those over age 18 can receive the Moderna, Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) or Pfizer vaccine. “State-run sites and many others are now vaccinating everyone 16 and older or 18 and older depending on the vaccine being used, and we’re looking forward to increasing supply from our federal partners,” said Dr. Cara Christ, director of ADHS. “These safe and effective vaccines are the light at the end of the tunnel after more than a year of struggle against COVID-19.” To streamline operations and communication, Maricopa County opened its vaccine appointments to all residents over the age of 16 on March 24, too. Since then, county residents have been receiving an average of almost 28,000 doses of vaccine per day, and most adults 55 years or older, have received at least one dose, according to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health. The state opens vaccine appointments

NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | APRIL 7, 2021

SKATEPARK from page 1

expansion, which will give expert skaters a chance to get their need for speed and beginners a way to gain balance and control. The existing 20-year-old Anthem Skatepark is getting revamped, too. The skatepark’s courses will be redesigned to alleviate dead-end lines, which prevent riders from keeping their flow and momentum. The renovations will also benefit transition skaters and vert riders, who will soon be skating on brand new pool coping on the skatepark’s existing bowl. The preliminary design incorporated the requests and suggestions that were most desired by the 280 respondents of a community e-survey. Mullarkey noted that “the design itself was not discussed or challenged in the most recent meeting.” The ACC advertised the SurveyMonkey to the community at the end of last year to solicit input on features they’d like to see added within the skatepark’s expansion as well as how the existing skatepark can be improved. These survey results were also presented during a February meeting.

Parents who responded to the survey wanted the pump track to give younger skaters an area where they’re not run over by the more experienced skaters, and the more experienced skaters voiced a need for street skating spots. During the most recent meeting, the board discussed the overall costs and whether the amount was too much, not enough or just right, Mullarkey explained. The approved budget covers the cost of repurposing the hockey rink into the street skating plaza, constructing the pump track and also covers the expenses of the various renovations to the existing skatepark, he said. The board also discussed the “additional activity that’s in the overall budget as well,” Mullarkey explained. This includes maintenance improvements like adding additional security cameras, LED lights and adding a fresh coat of paint to the light poles, all of which are outlined in the budget costs, he said. Board members deliberated about the costs of some of these items, however, it ultimately agreed “all of the items needed to be done anyway,” as enhancing the skatepark is part of the overall project, he said. There was one public comment from a reg-

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ular user of the hockey rink, Ty Howard, who disagreed with the repurposing of the hockey rink as part of the final skatepark design. He also took to the February meeting to explain that Anthem’s amenities — particularly its hockey rink — were some of the “major deciding factors,” as to why he chose to move into the master planned community two years ago. During the February meeting, he implored the board to consider the “valuable asset that roller hockey range is,” and said, “there’s plenty of room to expand it without taking the roller rink from us users that are there regularly.” Mullarkey said “we’re working with Mr. Howard on alternatives” to possibly create a halfcourt hockey rink where he and his hockey community can still practice and do scrimmages. The ACC has had “a couple of conversations with them on some alternatives to see if they’d be acceptable,” but there are no formal announcements on the matter yet, he said. However, the ACC has made a “commitment” to work with Howard to provide an alternative and “that’s what we’re looking at now,” Mullarkey said. There were no other public comments made during the recent meeting. Now that the final design and costs have been

approved, the ACC and its board will go into a “behind-the-scenes” period, Mullarkey explained. The proceedings of the skatepark will be “out of sight, out of mind” as the ACC works to secure county permits and finalize matters with surveyors, designers and the construction team, he said. “Then toward the summer months, we’ll start talking about schedules and timing and what we need to start construction.” Sidewalks may be closed off as the equipment starts moving in, however, the construction teams cannot pour concrete in the sweltering heat, so “We anticipate construction will start after the summer months,” Mullarkey said. The ACC is “looking forward” to the completion of this project and to be able to offer a “great amenity” to its residents. “It’s a way to give something to our kids,” Mullarkey said. Anthem has around 5,000 kids, and the skatepark will provide a way to keep kids “off the streets and stay out of trouble.” In addition, Mullarkey said the newly revamped and improved skatepark will provide a way for Anthem’s youth to “really become competitive skaters.” —Staff writer Sarah Donahue can be reached at sdonahue@timespublications.com

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | APRIL 7, 2021

Anthem establishes penalties for dog park violations BY SARAH DONAHUE Foothills Focus Staff Writer

othing ruins a day at the dog park like a canine altercation that necessitates a trip to the veterinarian or hospital. While there haven’t been many cases of big bad dogs wreaking havoc in the Anthem Dog Park, the Anthem Community Council Board of Directors passed a measure so residents know what’s to come if they cannot control an unruly canine. “No one wants to be bit in a dog park by another dog, and no one wants to see their little pooch bit by another more aggressive pooch — regardless of the size,” said Terry Mullarkey, executive director of Anthem Community Council (ACC). The board of directors adopted the dog park violation procedures measure unanimously during a public Zoom meeting on March 24, however, it modified the resolution to reduce the number

of chances and warnings a resident will receive before facing fines and long-term suspension. The first offense for a dog vs. dog altercation results in “removal from the dog park until conclusion of investigation and note account,” according to the modified resolution. Mullarkey explained this, saying Maricopa County Animal Control is called in the case of a first offense, and “the dog is not allowed to come back until the situation’s corrected.” Dogs may have to undergo behavioral training if they want to redeem themselves. However, if the dog is deemed nonaggressive by animal control after some sort of behavioral training classes, “we’ll give the dog a second chance,” he said. In the case of a resident’s dog committing a second offense against another dog, they will be suspended from using the dog park and can also get hit with a fine ranging between $250 to $500. Dog

owners are also liable for any legal fees or other expenses in this instance. Dog park privileges can potentially be revoked for “maybe a month, maybe forever, depending upon the incident,” Mullarkey said. In the instance that a resident is bitten by a dog, animal control will be called, and a two-week quarantine is required for all dogs who have bitten a resident or guest, according to the procedures. Residents’ access fob keys will be turned off during this period as well, and the ACC will review incident reports and documentation to determine whether suspension is necessary, it stated. The violation procedures were created by the ACC staff in response to “several negative interactions between dogs, as well as two cases of dog vs. resident, which led to members having to seek medical attention,” according to the memorandum. “It was more than just a playful nip, it really caused blood,” Mullarkey said

about the incidents. He added that animal control was called in these instances as procedurally directed. The violation protocol also indicates how members can be at risk of losing their “good standing Anthem Dog Park member” status. This includes failure to provide county licensing information, not paying ACC fines, dues and other charges on time, not accompanying guests when required, letting others use the dog park key fob, violating membership guidelines and rules as well as committing unsafe or offensive acts. Good standing status can also be revoked if one’s dog is deemed aggressive or a “vicious animal.” However, there were already policies and rules put in place before this measure was passed, he said. The ACC created a set of guidelines, “Dog Park 101,” for residents to adhere

see DOG PARK page 8

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Anthem amenity access, guest fees to be considered BY SARAH DONAHUE Foothills Focus Staff Writer

nthem’s wide variety of amenities like its dog park, pickleball courts, trails, parks, community center and skatepark are reasons why many decide to become a resident of the master-planned community. An Anthem Community Council (ACC) policy allows those who reside outside of the community’s limits to enjoy the private amenities as well, however, fees and policies aren’t universally enforced and collected, which has led to gaps in its system. The Anthem Community Council Board of Directors voted unanimously to authorize the formation of a subcommittee to research and report back with recommendations on potential ways of refining its process to create a more uniform system. The board approved the motion as requested by staff during a March 24 open session Zoom meeting.

This comes during a significant growth period in the North Valley, as there are a couple of new proposed residential developments in Anthem’s vicinity being considered by the city of Phoenix. This was mentioned in a written statement from Kristi Northcutt, ACC’s senior director of community relations. Her statement added while this rapid growth isn’t “necessarily the driving factor for the timing of this subcommittee being formed, it’s certainly an opportune time for us to examine the full scope of our amenities and how they’re being accessed.” There is no clear timeline or details established on when the subcommittee will form or proceed, she said. Public input is encouraged and will be solicited to help the board make its decision. The memorandum describes the current situation, stating nonresidents are granted access to Anthem’s amenities after they pay the associated guest fees. However, “this guest policy is only en-

forced at the community center due to access and available resources to collect guest fees,” it explains. The tennis and pickleball courts are also mentioned, which allow the collection of guest fees upon reservations, but not for open play. A decision must also be made in the next two months on how skateboarders, scooter riders, BMX bikers and roller skaters will access the final product of the skatepark expansion project — the fourth and final element of the Anthem’s master facilities plan. The completion of the Anthem Dog Park in November 2019 was also part of the master facilities plan, along with the creation of the pickleball courts in January 2019 and the remodel of the Anthem Community Center in May 2018. The renovated and expanded skatepark is expected to be open by the end of this year, and the board must also make a decision on “any associated fees that the ACC board may wish to build into that

amenity,” it adds. The subcommittee will explore potential ways of regulating amenity use among residents and guests. The scope of its research will evaluate the feasibility of restricting access at various amenities in which a fob key would be required for entry, it states. This fobkey system would be similar to the one used at the Anthem Dog park, it adds. A recommendation will also be made to the board on what the access fees should be for residents vs. nonresidents in the case that the subcommittee recommends restricting access to certain amenities, it adds. It will also study ways of not restricting access and regulating amenity access points for residents and guests instead. Terry Mullarkey, ACC’s executive director, drafted the memorandum and stated that more information will be released as it takes shape. —Staff writer Sarah Donahue can be reached at sdonahue@timespublications.com

DOG PARK from page 6

to while visiting the dog park after it was completed, and policies are also listed in residents’ membership packages. These newly adopted procedures are mostly a “reiteration of the membership package” and members will recognize most of its contents like the protocol as well as the incident report form, Mullarkey added. And while there hasn’t been a canine repeat offender, the ACC and its board wanted to ensure it had the ability to potentially fine and remove the dog from the dog park for a certain period of time to ensure the safety of its residents and their four-legged friends. The original recommendation outlined penalties for four behavioral offenses, however, the board adopted a “stricter position than staff recommended” and modified it to a “two offense position,” he explained. The draft originally included a verbal

see DOG PARK page 9

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | APRIL 7, 2021

Anthem Days seeking vendors for distanced event BY SARAH DONAHUE Foothills Focus Staff Writer

hough this year’s Anthem Days will require more social distancing, it will still serve its original intended purpose of bringing the community together. Last year’s Anthem Days was one of the many events residents had to cross off their calendars when COVID-19 hit, leading to

DOG PARK from page 8

warning and a note on account for the first offense, and a second offense resulted in removal from the dog park as well as a note on account, according to the annotated agenda. It also included a third offense that resulted in suspension and a fine as well as a fourth offense that resulted in a suspension from Anthem Dog Park privileges. Mullarkey added the board likely modified this because if a dog commits an offense more than two separate times, “You don’t need to give them a third and fourth chance, they’re probably just an aggressive dog and they shouldn’t be in the dog park.” Conversations about implementing this measure began in February, and the original drafting of the memo started on March 18 after the ACC staff realized there was not a dog violation policy solidified within its board policy manual, Mullarkey said. The modified two-offense procedure measure went into effect immediately. The board accepted the legal resolution with its passage, and it is now a formally accepted board-policy. However, the “good news” is there has only been a handful of incidents since the dog park was completed in November 2019, he said. Mullarkey added he could “literally” count all the incidents on one hand. The dog park was one of four projects in the Anthem Master Facilities plan. It was built to have multiple cells, with big dogs in one cell and little dogs in the other. However, the cells are now divided in a system with “active dogs” in one cell

restrictions on large gatherings. But with things taking a turn for the positive and more distance being placed between carnival rides, vendor booths and crowds, the event shall prevail for its 21st year. The public, all-ages event will be held at Anthem Community Park on May 1 and May 2, and the Frazier Shows Carnival will be in town from April 29 until May 2. Enhanced COVID-19 protocols will be in place, and “passive dogs” in the other, which Mullarkey said has worked well. It’s important to not have a bunch of big, aggressive dogs in a very small, confined area with people, as “that’s usually a recipe for disaster and we don’t want to have that.” “We just wanted to ensure that we were proactive in making sure the residents knew the consequences if their dog is not well-behaved at the dog park.” —Staff writer Sarah Donahue can be reached at sdonahue@timespublications.com

and attendees must wear masks. This year’s event will look similar to past Anthem Days, as attendees can expect to see a variety of carnival rides, food trucks, vendors, and live DJ entertainment. After all, with the complications of COVID-19, it wasn’t the time to make any “sweeping changes,” said Kristi Northcutt, Anthem Community Council senior director of community relations. “We’re just trying to get back in front of the community this year,” Northcutt said. “We’re trying to make it as traditional as possible, because we know that everyone really enjoys it, and without having it last year, we know people just want to get back to it.” That said, more crafts vendors will be featured than usual. One hundred vendors set up shop at the outdoor event each year, but with this year’s annual Autumnfest canceled, the Anthem Community Council wanted to make it up to them by offering space at Anthem Days. The Anthem Community Council is currently seeking participants.

“We’ve had a great response so far,” Northcutt said. “We’re getting some sponsors lined up and we have a good start to the registration. The call for vendors is open through April 9, and businesses, nonprofits as well as crafts vendors can register to take part at onlineatanthem.com. Anthem Area Chamber of Commerce members who are in good standing get a discount, Northcutt said. “People are excited to get back out in the community and enjoy our special events, and we’re looking forward to offering it to the community,” she explained. Attendees may notice a slight change of season, as the event normally takes place at the end of March. Temperatures may be a bit warmer in May, but the Anthem Community Council wanted that extra time to ensure it could follow all COVID-19 regulations and protocols, Northcutt explained. “We wanted to be sure that we could get the green light and make it an event that ev-

see ANTHEM DAYS page 10

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ANTHEM DAYS from page 9

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eryone could enjoy,” she added. COVID-19 protocols may affect which carnival rides will be a part of the event, but the Anthem Community Council hopes to feature the same traditional rides always offered. Carnival attractions in the past have included funhouses, slides, a Ferris wheel, as well as mini coasters and rides for the little ones, like a carousel as well as a little car train ride. But it’s the large swings that are usually the main attraction, Northcutt said. The popular ride raises people up to great heights, giving them a “beautiful” 360-degree aerial view of the entire park as well as Daisy Mountain. This attraction as well as the Ferris wheel are crowd favorites because “people love getting to the top and being able to look out over the whole park,” she said. “I love Anthem Days because it really gives the opportunity for Anthem businesses to showcase themselves to the community,” said Northcutt, who has attended these events for the past seven years that she’s been with Anthem.

In fact, this was its original purpose when it first started in 1999, Northcutt noted. Pulte/Del Webb wanted to “mesh the commercial areas with the residential areas and have it be this unified community,” she explained. “It’s just really important for people to have the chance to interact with our businesses, and to have them all in one place is really cool,” she said. “Anthem’s not big, but if you wanted to see every business, it takes you a little while,” she said. To have many of the area businesses altogether in the park on the same day makes for a “really fun” experience.” As businesses aren’t able to interact with each other all the time, this gives vendors a chance to build those connections. “That’s a pretty neat aspect of living in a community like ours,” she said. More details on the Anthem Days will be released as the event gets closer. Food trucks looking to be a part of this year’s event can contact the Anthem Community Council’s special events manager, Debbie Pulido, at dpulido@anthemcouncil.com. —Staff writer Sarah Donahue can be reached at sdonahue@timespublications.com

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OPINION

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AROUND THE BLUHMIN’ TOWN

Does the cancel culture stink? BY JUDY BLUHM Foothills Focus Columnist

Sorry, Pepe Le Pew, you are canceled! The devilish little skunk, who has been romantically chasing after Penelope Pussycat for way too long, cannot seem to take “No” for an answer. So, Looney Tunes, which created him in the 1950s, has had enough of those womanizing ways! No more cartoon reruns of the relentless pursuits. We are a modern society and will not put up with these displays of inappropriate behavior. I am not sure that Pepe was ever a role model, but men (and

boys), please do not follow the Le Pew plan of courtship because it will not end well! Our culture is moving into a “cancel” mode at alarming speed. Philosophers and historians claim this is nothing new, societies continually evolve, change their collective attitudes and constantly redefine what is acceptable and what is considered “wrong.” Yes, we can see that the “norms” of behavior in our society 50 years ago are no longer appropriate. We have changed — and mostly for the better. We don’t want to label people in oppressive terms. We want freedom, respect and dignity to be the standard for each

of us to enjoy. But how does an advanced society decide what needs to be “tweaked” to uphold our core values, and what (or who) needs to be canceled? We are on that slippery slope. Can a society keep pieces of the past without offending our current sensibilities? Disney+ has blocked some of its old, classic animated movies, such as “Dumbo” and “Peter Pan,” because of “negative depictions or mistreatment of people or cultures.” Companies are deciding what content is “appropriate” for their audiences. There are movies and books that might not stand the test of time. Warning messages placed

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on “Gone with the Wind,” and the movies “Tootsie” and “Mrs. Doubtfire” might soon be edited. Movies, books, cartoons all have the potential to be erased or altered. Dr. Seuss has not been canceled, but some of the earlier books written by Dr. Theodore Seuss Geisel have been shelved. Not by our government, but by Dr. Seuss Enterprises, a private company that owns the titles and felt that six of his early books had “racist and insensitive imagery.” This is a company making a decision about its brand, which is its right. We are experiencing the “sea change” of attitudes about what media content people in 2021 find appropriate. The teenager who uses a racial slur might never get the promotion or dream job many years into the future, because social media posts last forever. And even if someone has shown true evidence of remorse, change in behavior, apologizes and makes amends, it simply might not be enough. We are in a new frontier of having visual and audio evidence of our younger selves. A pretty terrifying thought. So as a society, the question to ponder is, when does forgiveness come into play? And what about grace? Do we still have a pathway to redemption? Are second chances still possible? I think so, except for Pepe Le Pew. His chances for redemption stink. Judy Bluhm is a writer and a local Realtor. Have a question or a comment? Email Judy at judy@judybluhm.com.

OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | APRIL 7, 2021

Anti-vaxxers long on myths, short on logic BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Foothills Focus Columnist

hen news broke in February that Arizona would open COVID-19 vaccines to people over age 55, I had a long debate with myself about whether to get the shot. By long, I mean 3 solid minutes. Or the time it took me to Google, “Will the COVID vaccine implant a microchip in me?” Seriously, that’s one of the myths circulating about the vaccine, along with rumors that the vaccines will genetically modify your DNA or that the shot is actually more lethal than COVID-19 itself. All false, at least according to everyone from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to the Mayo Clinic to the American Medical Association to yours truly. I got a second dose of the Pfizer vaccine on March 25. So far, I’ve shown no ill effects besides the sore arm I had for 48 hours and a decreased tolerance for peo-

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ple who say things like, “Didja know the COVID-19 vaccine killed Hank Aaron?” Again, this is seriously a contention being made by the anti-vaxxers. Their logic? Aaron got his COVID-19 vaccine Jan. 5. The baseball slugger died 17 days later in his sleep, at age 86. The medical examiner ruled this a death from natural causes, reporting that Aaron showed no symptoms of COVID-19, nor any side effects from the Moderna vaccine he received. Still, leading anti-vaxxer Robert F. Kennedy Jr. tweeted, “Aaron’s tragic death is part of a wave of suspicious deaths among elderly closely following administration of COVID vaccines.” The rumor mill ran so amok, the New York Times fact-checked Aaron’s demise under a headline reading, “Hank Aaron’s death had nothing to do with the COVID-19 vaccine.” For some folks, the world medical establishment and the mainstream media

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uniting to assure us of something can only mean one thing — the exact opposite of whatever we’re being told. If the American Hospital Association, American Medical Association and American Nurses Association all say a vaccine is safe — and they’ve released a public service announcement saying exactly that — the only logical thing to believe is a YouTube video by some loon named Steve Fletcher who reports, “4 Reasons Why The COVID Vaccine IS The Mark Of The Beast!” Steve says it’s right there in Revelations 13. “The Beast and the False Prophet and the Dragon will deceive humanity into taking His mark,” i.e., the COVID-19 vaccine. To think, my big worry was that the second shot might interfere with my Saturday morning tee time. A mid-March poll of Arizonans by OH Predictive Insights shows that 17% of us will refuse to take the vaccine, while another 11% remain unsure. That could create an issue for our state,

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The scoop: New ice cream truck serves smiles BY SARAH DONAHUE Foothills Focus Staff Writer

teve Frazer brought his Totally Rolled Ice Cream to Arizona with the hopes that it would keep him occupied while he and his family lived here in the winter. It became more than that. It’s now a fulltime job. “A lot of my friends out here had never had my homemade ice cream,” said Frazer, who lives in Iowa during the summer. His truck has become so popular he’s looking for someone to run it in the summer. Introduced to the Valley in June 2019, Totally Rolled Ice Cream offered homemade treats based on Frazer’s recipes. Customers can choose from 10 flavors or create their own with an assortment of fruits, cereals and sweets. Frazer’s brick and mortar in Iowa has more than 100 mixing options. The ice cream starts out as a vanilla liquid base, which is then moved to a freezing mix plate to mix everything together, then freezes within a minute. Through trial and error, Frazer came up with a homemade recipe that continues to satisfy. Once frozen, it is rolled, then served to the customer. “Everybody’s always asking how I created it, but probably the best part is all my customers say it’s the best-tasting ice cream they’ve had in their life,” Frazer said. “It makes me feel good. My wife says ‘You’re always selling smiles, not ice cream.’” Cookie dough is one of his most popular flavors, along with the Dana Delight, which is named after his wife, and is mixed with fresh strawberries. Frazer drives to Iowa to use its ice cream because the state’s ice cream has better consistency. He recently returned from a drive there to stock up for orders through April. Despite the COVID-19 restrictions, Fraz-

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Customers can choose from 10 flavors of handmade ice cream rolls or create their own with an assortment of fruits, cereals and sweets. (Photos courtesy of Steve Frazer) er’s business has been able to thrive because he is privately booked to appear at parties, events or neighborhoods. “Every weekend beginning April 20 until the end of October is almost 75% booked already,” Frazer said. Because his schedule is so busy, Frazer isn’t always available to serve the public. He posts his Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday public appearances — which are heavily in Desert Hills, Anthem and Cave Creek — on social media pages. “It’ll be the best ice cream you’ve had in your life I guarantee it,” Frazer said.

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Anthem Activities

Anthem Golf & Country Club schedule BY FOOTHILLS FOCUS STAFF

ue to the limited availability, Anthem Golf & Country Club is asking members to not register for back-to-back classes, so everyone has a chance to register. No-shows are charged $10. Classes are held at Persimmon or Ironwood, 2708 W. Anthem Club Drive or 41551 N. Anthem Hills Drive, respectively. For more information, call 623-7426200 for Persimmon Clubhouse or 623465-3020 for Ironwood Clubhouse. Wednesday, April 7 • Ironwood: Cycle, 5:30 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Mixology, 7 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Fit & Fun, 8:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Cardio/ Strength Circuit, 8:30 a.m. • Stretch, 8:30 a.m. (indoors, mask required) • Zoom: Stretch, 8:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Vinyassa Flow, 9:45 a.m. • Ironwood: Functional Training, 10:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Tabata, 5:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required)

Thursday, April 8 • Persimmon: Total Body, 5:30 a.m. • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Muscle Mix 8:30 a.m. • Zoom: Barre Fusion, 8:30 a.m. • Ironwood: Boxology, 9 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. • Ironwood: Boxing, 5:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Candlelight Yin, 6:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required) Friday, April 9 • Persimmon: Kickology Strong, 7 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Cycle, 7:30 a.m.

• Ironwood: Fit & Fun, 8:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Cardio/ Strength Circuit 8:30 a.m. • Persimmon, Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • Persimmon, Vinyassa Flow, 9:45 a.m. • Ironwood: Stability Ball, 10 a.m. (indoors, masks required)

Saturday, April 10 • Ironwood: Cycle, 7:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Bootcamp, 8 a.m. • Persimmon: Chair Yoga, 9 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Zumba, 9 a.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • Luau Party at Persimmon Pool, 5 p.m.

Monday, April 12 • Ironwood: Cycle, 5:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Kickology Strong, 7 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Cycle, 7:30 a.m. • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Cardio/ Strength Circuit, 8:30 a.m. • Stretch: 8:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Zoom: Fun & Fit, 8:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Vinyassa Flow, 9:45 a.m. • Ironwood: Functional Training, 10:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Zumba, 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 13 • Persimmon: Total Body, 5:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Tabata, 8:30 a.m. • Zoom: Mat Pilates, 8:30 a.m. • Ironwood: Boxology, 9 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • Clublife 101 Orientation, 10 a.m. • PWR! Moves, fee-based, 1:15 p.m. • Ironwood: Boxing, 5:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 5:30 p.m. • Persimmon: Candlelight Yin, 6:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required)

Wednesday, April 14 • Ironwood, Cycle: 5:30 a.m. (indoors,

masks required) • Persimmon: Mixology, 7 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Cycle, 7:30 a.m. • Ironwood: Fun & Fit, 8:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Cardio/ Strength Circuit, 8:30 a.m. • Stretch: 8:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Zoom: Stretch, 8:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Vinyassa Flow, 9:45 a.m. • Ironwood: Functional Training, 10:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Tabata, 5:30 p.m. (indoor masks required) • VA Piano Vineyards Wine Dinner, 6 p.m.

Thursday, April 15 • Persimmon: Total Body, 5:30 a.m. • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Muscle Mix, 8:30 a.m. • Zoom: Barre Fusion, 8:30 a.m. • Ironwood: Boxology, 9 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • PWR! Moves-Fee Based 1:15 p.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Boxing, 5:30 p.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 5:30 p.m. • Persimmon: Candlelight Yin, 6:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required) Friday, April 16 • Persimmon: Kickology Strong, 7 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Cycle, 7:30 a.m. • Ironwood: Fun &. Fit, 8:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Cardio/ Strength Circuit, 8:30 a.m. • Zoom: Life Exercises Class, 8:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • Ironwood: Stability Ball, 10 a.m. (indoors, masks required) Saturday, April 17 • Ironwood: Cycle, 7:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Bootcamp, 8 a.m.

• Persimmon: Chair Yoga, 9 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Zumba, 9 a.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m.

Monday, April 19 • Ironwood: Cycle, 5:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Kickology String, 7 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Cycle, 7:30 a.m. • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Cardio/ Strength Circuit, 8:30 a.m. • Stretch: 8:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Zoom: Fun & Fit, 8:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Vinyassa Flow, 9:45 a.m. • Irownood: Functional Training, 10:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Zumba, 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday, April 20 • Persimmon: Total Body, 5:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Tabata, 8:30 a.m. • Zoom: Mat Pilates, 8:30 a.m. • Ironwood: Boxology, 9 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Water fitness, 9:30 a.m. • PWR: Moves-Fee Based, 1:15 p.m. (indoors, masks required) • Clublife 101 Orientation, 5 p.m. • Ironwood: Boxing, 5:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 5:30 p.m. • Persimmon: Candlelight Yin, 6:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required)

Wednesday, April 21 • Ironwood: Cycle, 5:30 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Mixology, 7 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Fun & Fit, 8:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Cardio/ Strength Circuit, 8:30 a.m. • Stretch: 8:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required)

see SCHEDULE page 18

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | APRIL 7, 2021

SCHEDULE from page 17

Anthem Activities

• Zoom: Stretch, 8:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Vinyassa Flow, 9:45 a.m. • Ironwood: Functional Training, 10:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Tabata: 5:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required)

Thursday, April 22 • Persimmon: Total Body, 5:30 p.m. • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Muscle Mix, 8:30 a.m. • Zoom: Barre Fusion, 8:30 a.m. • Ironwood: Boxology, 9 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • PWR! Moves: Fee based, 1:15 p.m. (indoors, masks required) • Brews with Brad, 4 p.m. • Ironwood: Boxing, 5:30 p.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 5:30 p.m. • Persimmon: Candlelight Yin, 6:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required)

Friday, April 23 • Persimmon, Kickology Strong, 7 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Cycle, 7:30 a.m. • Ironwood: Fun & Fit, 8:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Cardio/ Strength Circuit, 8:30 a.m. • Zoom: Life Exercises Class, 8:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness: 9:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Vinyassa Flow, 9:45 a.m. • Ironwood: Stability Ball, 10 a.m. (indoors, masks required) Saturday, April 24 • Ironwood: Cycle, 7:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Bootcamp, 8 a.m. • Persimmon: Chair Yoga, 9 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Zumba, 9 a.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. Monday, April 26 • Ironwood: Cycle, 5:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required)

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• Persimmon: Kickology Strong, 7 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Cycle, 7:30 a.m. • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Cardio/ Strength Circuit, 8:30 a.m. • Stretch, 8:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Zoom: Fun & Fit, 8:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Vinyassa Flow, 9;45 a.m. • Ironwood: Functional Training, 10:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Zumba, 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday, April 27 • Persimmon: Total Body, 5:30 a.m. • Zoom: Mat Pilates, 8:30 a.m. • Ironwood: Boxology, 9 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • Clublife 101 Orienttion, 10 a.m. • PWR Moves! Fee based, 1:15 p.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Boxing, 5:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 5:30 p.m. • Persimmon: Candlelight Yin, 6:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required)

Wednesday, April 28 • Ironwood: Cycle, 5:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Mixology, 7 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Cycle, 7:30 a.m. • Ironwood: Fun & Fit, 8:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Cardio/ Strength Circuit, 8:30 a.m.

• Stretch: 8:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Zoom: Stretch, 8:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Vinyassa Flow, 9:45 a.m. • Ironwood: Functional Training: 10:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Tabata, 5:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required)

Thursday, April 29 • Persimmon: Total Body, 5:30 a.m. • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Muscle Mix, 8:30 a.m. • Zoom: Barre Fusion, 8:30 a.m. • Ironwood: Boxology, 9 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 9:30 a.m. • PWR! Moves: Fee based, 1:15 p.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Boxing, 5:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon: Water Fitness, 5:30 p.m. • Persimmon: Candlelight Yin, 6:30 p.m. (indoors, masks required) Friday, April 30 • Persimmon: Kickology Strong, 7 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Ironwood: Cycle, 7:30 a.m. • Ironwood: Fun & Fit, 8:30 a.m. (indoors, masks required) • Persimmon Arbor Trellis: Cardio/ Strength Circuit, 8:30 a.m. • Zoom: Life Exercises Class, 8:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Water Fitness: 9:30 a.m. • Persimmon: Vinyassa Flow, 9:45 a.m. • Ironwood: Stability Ball, 10 a.m. (indoors, masks required)

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Anthem Activities

Anthem Community Council activities schedule Programs and activities are available at the Community Center and Civic Building for all ages. Learn more and register online at onlineatanthem.com. Visit the “Residents” tab, then click on “Activity Registration.” Most programs and classes are available to nonresidents for an additional fee. With questions, contact Dave at dfermoile@anthemcouncil.com or call 623-879-3027. Wednesdays through April 14 AARP Tax Aide, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Free; appointment or drop-in Register at aztax-aide.org Thursdays through April 29 • Creative Combo Dance; 4:45 to 5:30 p.m. (2.5 to 5 years) • Kinder Combo Dance; 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. (5 to 7 years) • Jazz/Tumbling Dance;

6:15 to 7 p.m. (8 to 12 years) $59; Community Center

Senior Activities (50 years and older) Golden Go-Getters; Mondays, 1 to 3 p.m. Mexican Train Game; Fridays, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Free; Civic Building Fridays through May 31 Tuesdays/Thursdays through April 29 Tai Chi (Beginner), 8 to 9 a.m. $67; Civic Building Thursday, April 8 MindQuest, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Free; Zoom (Visit bigideasforum.info) Friday, April 9 Parents’ Night Out, 6:30 to 10 p.m. $18; Community Center

Saturdays April 10, 17 and 24 Dodgeball (up to age 12 years), 12:30 to 2 p.m. $5 (drop in); Community Center

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Wednesday, April 14 Everyday Card Making Class, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. $27; Civic Building

Saturday, April 17 Go Green Recycling Drive-Thru, 8 to 11 a.m. Free; Community Park lower parking lot Saturday, April 17 Parent-Teen Fitness Certification, 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. For ages 12 to 13 years (with an adult) $30; Community Center Friday, April 23 Parents’ Night Out, 6:30 to 10 p.m.

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What’s in your diary? CHURCH COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Pastor Ed Delph Foothills Focus Columnist

ere’s a great illustration I found on the internet of two different perspectives — one coming from Venus (a feminine perspective) and the other from Mars (a masculine perspective). One is called The Wife’s Diary. The other is called The Husband’s Diary. The Wife’s Diary. “Tonight, I thought my husband was acting weird. We had made plans to meet at a nice restaurant for dinner. I was shopping with my friends all day long, so I thought he was upset that I was a bit late, but he made no comment on it. The conversation wasn’t flowing, so I suggested that we

go somewhere quiet so we could talk. He agreed, but he didn’t say much. “I asked him what was wrong; He said, ‘Nothing.’ I asked him if it was my fault that he was upset. He said he wasn’t upset, that it had nothing to do with me, and not to worry about it. On the way home, I told him that I loved him. He smiled slightly and kept driving. I can’t explain his behavior. I don’t know why he didn’t say, I love you, too. “When we got home, I felt as if I had lost him completely, as if he wanted nothing to do with me anymore. He just sat there quietly and watched television. He continued to seem distant and absent. Finally, with silence all around us, I decided to go to bed. About 15 minutes later, he came to bed. But I still felt that he was

distracted, and his thoughts were somewhere else. He fell asleep; I cried. I don’t know what to do. I’m almost sure that his thoughts are with someone else. My life is a disaster.” The Husband’s Diary. “A 2-foot putt. Who misses a 2-foot putt?” Five years ago, my wife Becky and I had a similar diary story when we were selling our home and looking for a new home at the same time. Here’s what she posted on her Facebook page. “Well, as of last night, we have a contract on our house. We haven’t found a house to move to yet, so I’m in bed with my mind racing, thinking, ‘OK, our daughter and her husband said we could stay with them, but we could stay with Ed’s father, but Ed needs internet for his work. Where are we going to put all the stuff we have to pack?’ So, I couldn’t fall asleep. I got up, did some stuff, and finally fell asleep sometime after 2 a.m.

“Today Ed and I were sitting in the family room, and Ed was strangely quiet, so I assumed he was thinking about the upcoming move. I said, ‘Whatcha thinkin?’ Ed says, ‘I can’t believe Jeff Gordon blew winning that NASCAR race yesterday!’ I replied, ‘Oh my gosh, you are such a guy!’” Becky had 37 likes and 20 comments on her Facebook in an hour (mostly women). The lesson here is don’t get all steamed up when you don’t know what’s cooking. To be fair to Becky, she has a straightforward thought about the Venus and Mars idea. “Hmmm, women are from Venus, and men are from Mars. No, you’re both from Earth. Deal with it.” That’s my Becky. This phenomenon also happens with God and us human beings. But it’s not about Venus and Mars issues. It’s with heaven and earth is-

see DIARY page 23

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DIARY from page 22

sues. Here’s another diary example of us humans and our conversations with ourselves and God. I’ll call it Our Diary and God’s Dairy. Our Diary. “Dear God, our world’s falling apart, things are terrible, everything is out of control, I can’t cope, there’s no hope, things will never change, we can’t recover from this, it’s the end of the world.” Wouldn’t you agree that we all have had diaries like this in times of crisis and ambiguity? God’s Diary. “Dear Person: Yes, I understand the way you feel. I am God! I will be handling all of your problems today. I will not need your help. Have a good day.” Wow, God is such a guy! Do you know what? It may seem like things are out of control, but God is in control. Here’s another diary I gleaned from Pastor Andy Stanley illustrating just that. “Sometimes, I just want it to stop — the talk of COVID, looting, brutality. I lose my way. I become convinced that this ‘new normal’ is real life. Then I meet an 87-year-old who talks of living through polio, diphtheria, Vietnam protests, and yet is still enchanted with his life.” He seemed surprised when I said that 2020 must be incredibly challenging for him.

“No,” he said slowly, looking me straight in the eyes. “I learned a long time ago not to see the world through the headlines. I see the world through the people that surround me. I see the world with the realization that we love big. Therefore, I choose to write my own headlines: ‘Husband loves wife today.’ ‘Family drops everything to come to Grandma’s bedside.’ He patted my hand. ‘Old man makes a new friend.’ “His words collide with my worries, freeing them from the tether I had been holding tight. They float away. I’m left with a renewed spirit and a new way to write my own headlines.” What’s in your diary today? Who’s in your headlines today? Ed Delph is a native of Phoenix who lives in the North Valley. Since 1980, he has pastored three churches in the Valley. He is a noted author of 10 books, weekly columnist in several local and worldwide newspapers, teacher, business owner and speaker. Delph has been to or ministered in over 100 countries. He is president of a worldwide ministry, NationStrategy. To learn more about Pastor Ed Delph, the Church-Community Connection and Nation strategy, call 623-376-6757, e-mail nationstrategy@cs.com or visit nationstrategy.com.

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Suzie Black: Moving in delight, harmony BY SHEA STANFIELD Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

he work of Scottsdale artist Suzie Black recalls the sheer pleasure of childhood; the unrestrained joyous creativity, mingled with a sense of mischief. It does the same for those who witness her artwork. Even the paint has a personality that celebrates lack of restraint and the absence of self-consciousness. The loose brushstrokes and energetic palette knife work are brought into tow by the strength of her design. Black’s story reflects the larger scope of those around her and the endless dance of community. No surprise this gutsy “out there” artist grew up in an 18-room “old mansion” on a busy Newark, New Jersey, street, just minutes from Manhattan. A daughter of a successful interior designer and painter, Black was used to looking at color, design, interiors and

ect for senior humanities class. The work was met with such enthusiasm that her parents hung it in their home for the next 30 years as their daughter launched her art career. After high school, Black was off to George Washington University and the Corcoran School of Art. Artist Suzie Black at work in the studio. (Photo courtesy of Suzie Black) She earned advanced degrees in art therapy and canvases that challenged the edge on conart education. Her artistemporary comfort levels. Conversations tic heroes were van Gogh, Schiele, Dieabout art with her mother were part of benkorn, Matisse and Gauguin. Black’s earliest memories. Black was fascinated by art therapy and Finally, when she was a high school the psychology behind expressing emosenior, she found herself “home alone” tions and telling the stories of our “hidand made the bold move into her moth- den selves” through art. This grew into a er’s studio. With brushes in hand and oils 40-year adventure in the exploration of spread out on a palette, she went to work color and form. “My expansion is here and now in the on her first canvas. A star was born. Black presented her painting as her final proj- form of larger works,” she said. “I search for

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mysterious subject matter to lead the viewer into the painting. I also introduce figures in my work that are not quite realistic think in terms of abstract expressionism.” All of this is part of Black’s fascination with psychology, the subconscious of the human experience. She thinks in terms of “looking for my wild child and giving her the gift of calm.” Black is also part of the “study process” as a teacher. She creates from her “artist loft” in her Scottsdale home. She frequently shows her work in venues such as Thunderbird Artists and Hidden in the Hill, sponsored by the Sonoran Arts League. Her work was the cover art for Vortex magazine, and she received a National Endowment of the Arts grant this past summer at Yeiser Gallery in Paducah, Kentucky. Black teaches art classes and workshops at Terravita in North Scottsdale. To view more of Black’s work, sign up for her classes, visit her studio or contact her at suzieblack.net.

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | APRIL 7, 2021

Recent Storms and COVID have Substantially Impacted Supply Chain

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