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Questers grant nearly $10K to museum PAGE

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BUSINESS.......... 14

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Serving the communities of Cave Creek and Carefree

Cave Creek - Carefree Area Edition

Wednesday, June 29, 2022

Cave Creek council OKs $40M budget BY ALLISON BROWN Foothills Focus Staff Writer

ave Creek Town Council unanimously approved a $40 million budget for the 2022/2023 fiscal year at its June 20 meeting. “The fiscal year 2023 budget continues our mission to support the community by effectively managing public services and fostering our unique Southwestern ways of

life,” said Carrie Dyrek, town manager at the meeting. “It supports programs and policies to further the strategic plan as adopted by the town council. In Cave Creek, we are fortunate to be in a strong financial position thanks to conservative budgeting, careful spending and strong economic growth.” The budget is only a 0.13% increase from the previous year’s budget. The total financial resources available to the town were

calculated to be more than $102 million. Cave Creek Finance Director Shirley Fox said total general fund revenues are $12,129,800, which is a 17% decrease from the last fiscal year. However, this is more than balanced out by general fund expenses also being cut down 27% from the previous fiscal year to a little less than $11 million. This leaves the revenue over expenses difference to be about $1.2 million and the esti-

see COUNCIL page 4

Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical nationally recognized

FEATURES......... 16

Fiber art group holds regional conference

YOUTH.............. 18

Preteen cleaning up with soap products

OPINION.......................7 BUSINESS.................. 14 FEATURES................. 15 YOUTH....................... 18 CLASSIFIEDS............. 22 Zone 2

BY ALLISON BROWN Foothills Focus Staff Writer

aisy Mountain Fire & Medical has received the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold Plus achievement award for its commitment to offering rapid, research-based care to people experiencing a heart attack, ultimately saving lives. “The American Heart Association is sort of the national gold standard as far as cardiac care,” said Assistant Chief Dan Jarrett, who is responsible for the Medical Services Division of the Daisy Mountain Fire District. “They develop proper CPR certifications and cardiac treatment certifications and protocols for EMS care that we refer to and use. … We’ve

received this award now for six years straight and so we’re at the Gold Plus level now, which is the highest award that American Heart issues as far as EMS standards as it pertains to cardiac care.” Each year, more than 250,000 people experience a type of heart attack known as an ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), caused by a blockage of blood flow to the heart that requires timely treatment. To prevent death, it is critical to restore blood flow as quickly as possible by either mechanically opening the blocked vessel or using clot-busting medication. That’s where EMS teams come in.

see RECOGNITION page 4

Assistant Chief Dan Jarrett, responsible for the Medical Services Division of the Daisy Mountain Fire District, said it is an honor to be recognized by the American Heart Association. (Daisy Mountain Fire District/Submitted)

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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 ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Display Advertising: 480-348-0343 Classifieds/Inside Sales: Elaine Cota | 480-898-7926 | ecota@timeslocalmedia.com TJ Higgins | 480-898-5902 | tjhiggins@timeslocalmedia.com Steve Insalaco | 480-898-5635 | sinsalaco@timeslocalmedia.com Advertising Office Manager: Tricia Simpson | 480-898-5624 tsimpson@timeslocalmedia.com Director of National Advertising Zac Reynolds | 480-898-5603 | zac@timeslocalmedia.com NEWS DEPARTMENT Executive Editor: Christina Fuoco-Karasinski | 480-898-5631 christina@timeslocalmedia.com Design: Nathalie Proulx | nproulx@timeslocalmedia.com Production Coordinator: Courtney Oldham | 480-898-5617 production@timeslocalmedia.com Circulation Director: Aaron Kolodny | 480-898-5641 customercare@timeslocalmedia.com

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COUNCIL from page 1

mated ending general fund balance will be almost $22 million. “General fund expenses by department are increasing overall to account for the expected increases in supply costs and a 6% increase cost of living adjustment for all employees,” Fox said. “There is one significant exception, that being fire protection expenses. They are budgeted at $4.350 million less than the prior year.” According to Fox, the cost of fire protection expenses went down significantly because in the previous year, the whole fire program was budgeted 100%. She said now the town can appropriately budget the remaining costs and spread that across the next few years in which those costs will actually be paid. Dyrek said one factor that played a large role in budgeting is that the town’s total debt service payments average approximately $4.7 million per year through 2027. Other factors that were at the forefront of consideration, especially for the operating budget, were supply issues, water use and costs, increasing interest rates and a potential decline of local construction.

Water played a complex part in the budget. Cave Creek Water Service is losing about $1.7 million in revenue due to customers switching to the Carefree Water Co. The Desert Hills Water Service is also seeing a decrease in revenue due to the water conservation policy which is preventing new hookups in that area. In addition, wastewater revenues are decreasing as less development is expected. The town will use federal funding to help balance this. “We have ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) grant funding totaling $1.95 million, and those funds are set to offset the expenditures in the Cave Creek water,” Fox said. “And we did apply for federal grants through the congressional directed spending reserves of $3 million, which, if awarded, we will use those funds rather than borrow the money.” The town’s supply issues are problematic due to ongoing improvement projects and routine maintenance costs. On the opposite side of this, a decrease in local construction is potentially problematic because 46% of Cave Creek’s revenue comes from taxes, of which construction sales tax is part. Overall, however, Fox said she budgeted a 13% increase in sales tax.

Another significant change to this fiscal year’s budget was a 54.5% increase in personnel expenses. Fox said this increase was due to budgeting for full staffing of the department with regular full-time employees and a cost of living pay adjustment which was approved by council. For this fiscal year, 22% of all expenditures go toward town personnel. However, expenses for contracts and services decreased 64.7% due to budgeting less contracted services that will now be performed by employees. The tentative budget was presented to council at a May 16 meeting, where council members unanimously voted to increase community grant funding by $20,000. The newly approved budget also contains a capital improvement plan for 2023 through 2027. For 2023, about $6.3 million was dedicated to the capital improvement fund. “This budget has some really good things for the town,” said Mayor Ernie Bunch at the meeting. “We’ve put in a fire department with no new taxes… to me that is a great thing and I think we should all be proud of it. I think it’s something that no one else has done. This budget is wonderful.”

“Every minute that a patient’s heart is not receiving oxygen is causing permanent damage to the heart,” Jarrett said. “There’s a saying in cardiology that time is a muscle — the sooner we can get that heart vessel opened up and get the heart muscle reperfused, we’re saving that muscle and hopefully keeping the patient from having congestive heart failure down the road.” Mission: Lifeline is the American Heart Association’s national initiative to advance the system of care for patients with highrisk, time-sensitive disease states, such as severe heart attacks. The program aims to help reduce barriers to prompt treatment for heart attacks — starting from when 911 is called to EMS transport and continuing through hospital treatment and discharge. Jarrett explained the step-by-step pro-

cess of Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical’s response when someone calls 911 with chest pain. A fire truck is sent to every EMS call, because all of the trucks at Daisy Mountain are ALS units, meaning that at least two of the four crew members are parademics. When the crew arrives, they will put a 12-lead EKG on the patient. The EKG provides 12 different views of the heart, measures electrical signals produced by the heartbeat and reflects those signals in a waveform. The paramedics have to be able to read and interpret the EKG to detect if the patient is having an acute heart attack. “Then, that triggers a number of things to happen. And that’s part of what American Heart is measuring as far as their data collection is: Do our crews recognize someone that’s having chest pain, do they put on a 12-lead EKG and do they do that 12 lead within a five-minute window of getting on the scene?” Jarrett explained. “From there, if the patient is actually

having a ST-segment heart attack, then we do an early notification to the hospital that allows the hospital to get ready to receive the patient, call in the team and fire up their cath lab.” He added that communication is critical in these situations. The paramedics can actually call the hospital straight from the EKG machine to alert them, and then it’s “lights and sirens” to get the patient there as soon as possible. Where the patient is taken is an important factor, too. A patient having a STEMI needs to be taken to the closest cardiac center, which, for Daisy Mountain, is usually HonorHealth Deer Valley. According to Jarrett, Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical has been working with that cardiac center for so long that they have an excellent and efficient working relationship. He said the doctors trust that Daisy Moun-

RECOGNITION from page 1

see RECOGNITION page 6

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NEWS

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Questers grant nearly $10K to museum BY FOOTHILLS FOCUS STAFF

he Cave Creek Museum will receive $9,699 from Questers to restore its tuberculosis cabin, the only remaining structure of its kind in Arizona. According to the museum’s ex-

ecutive director Evelyn Johnson, Questers will present the check to the museum board at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 14, in front of the cabin. The public is welcome. With the funds, Don Fredricks Inc. will rehabilitate the cabin’s physical structure, which is more than 100

years old. The cabin exhibit will be restored and ready for the museum’s season opening on Oct. 1. Established in 1944, Questers is a nonprofit dedicated to the study, conservation and preservation of historical objects. The Arizona Four Peaks chapter raised the funds for the restoration. “We are involved in preservation or restoration of anything of historical significance,” said Alice Helton, Four Peaks Questers president. “Our chapter began looking at renovating the TB cabin more than three years ago. We are excited to present the monies to Cave Creek Museum and to see the cabin’s revitalization.” Johnson said the grant is needed. “The cabin’s boards are leaning, and the overall structure needs additional support,” Johnson said. “We want — and must — preserve this amazing building as it is listed in the prestigious National Registry of Historic Places. Recently, the (Arizona) State Office of Historic Preservation approved the exterior preservation effort. The tuberculosis cabin is one of the most popular exhibits at Cave Creek Museum.” The historic tubercular cabin was built in the early 1920s and was located with 14 others along Cave Creek Road, across from what is now The Horny Toad The cabins were built for use in central and southern Arizona and inhabited by patients trying to recu-

perate from tuberculosis. Patients came by train, horseback and car as they sought a dry climate to help cure their symptoms. People like Doc Holliday of Tombstone and Peggy Goldwater, mother of Sen. Barry Goldwater, sought help in Arizona. There was no other treatment of its kind at the time. Around 1920, Sam and Helen Jones opened a Cave Creek TB camp as Desmount Sanatorium. The camp had small cabins that were clustered around a dining hall. The camp closed in the 1940s. The tubercular cabin, which was moved to Cave Creek Museum in 1984, was restored to its original condition by the Cave Creek Museum, Humana Hospital and Cave Creek and Carefree residents. The one-room cabin had no indoor plumbing or kitchen facilities, and screened windows without glass and wooden shutters. Cupboards, a small closet, a sink and wood-burning stove completed the spaces. Food was prepared and served in a central dining hall. The cabin was restored and filled with furnishings original to TB cabins. During the construction of Bartlett Dam, the cabin was moved and used as “manager quarters.” Five were relocated to the Oregano’s site where they were used as vacation homes. Open from October to May, the Cave Creek Museum is located at 6140 E. Skyline Drive, Cave Creek. For more information, call 480-4880-2764.

tain paramedics have correctly read the EKG, so the paramedics are able to put the patient on the gurney, wheel them past the emergency room and straight into the cath lab. “Because of that process that we’ve established over time, these patients are able to walk out of the hospital versus being in a wheelchair the rest of their life or being on oxygen the rest of their life or even just

surviving the event when otherwise they wouldn’t have,” Jarrett said. About 85% of all emergency calls are actually for medical issues, according to Jarrett , which is why crews are continually training to make sure they understand the protocols and benchmark times. Jarrett said it is an honor to receive this award from the American Heart Association, and it shows the community that Daisy Mountain Fire and Medical is on the cutting edge of cardiac care.

RECOGNITION from page 4

OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 29, 2022

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The pods of summer can drive you crazy BY J.D. HAYWORTH Foothills Focus Columnist

rizona and Ancient Greece are separated by thousands of years and thousands of miles, but there is one task that makes Greek mythology an Arizona reality in this modern age and season. It is found in an annual duty that takes many new desert dwellers by surprise, fresh from their boasts to friends who remain in colder winter climes. Be honest… how many times have you taunted friends still living in Chicago, Minneapolis or Omaha with this articulation of the obvious: “We don’t have to shovel sunshine when it’s wintertime in the desert!” True enough, but another seasonal assertion fails the credibility test. It goes something like this: “And another thing… we don’t need rakes in the desert because there are no falling autumn leaves.” But many newcomers soon discover that they need at least one rake… and maybe a few more. Fall may not bring falling leaves, but summer certainly brings falling pods… at least for homeowners who choose to plant mesquite trees on their property. And because of that fateful decision, those property owners soon discover that they have sentenced themselves to seemingly ceaseless summer days with rake-in-hand, gathering pods-on-ground. Age and circumstance provide an interesting paradox in the human condition. School kids, when engaged in the routine of academic pursuits, find themselves gazing out classroom windows, imagining their post-educational “classroom-free” future. Adults, en-

gaged in age-appropriate “responsible-but-not-enjoyable” tasks, find themselves recalling lessons from their school days, freeing their minds from the physical drudgery in which they’re involved. Personal experience, amidst the picking-up-of-the-pods, prompted a recollection of the fate of Sisyphus. If you’re in need of a brief refresher on this particular figure in Greek mythology, here ’tis: Sisyphus was a king and because he cheated death twice, Zeus punished him by forcing Sisyphus to roll a huge boulder up a hill — only to see it roll down each time it neared the top — and to repeat that action for all eternity. Okay, okay, so picking up mesquite pods isn’t an eternal fate… it only seems that way. Visitors, be advised: in the Arizona desert, those “lazy, hazy crazy days of summer” aren’t lazy or hazy… but if you have mesquite trees, they will drive you a little crazy. The above is offered as a “public service” for those considering a move here.

But in research conducted exclusively for this column, a constructive use for mesquite pods has been discovered, which may strike you as a bit cra… ahem…different. An October 2009 article from the Associated Press, still found on the website of “The Christian Science Monitor,” heralds the culinary value of mesquite pods, saying that in the Southwest, they’re a “tasty treat.” It goes on to claim that they are “now being added to smoothies, breads and pancakes.” Prominently mentioned in the 2009 AP story is the Tucson-based group, “Desert Harvesters,” or DH, as the organization calls itself. A visit to the DH website reveals updated language that is certainly palatable to the “politically correct.” While acknowledging the help of area tribes and thanking them for access to traditional homelands, Desert Harvesters also “acknowledges our on-going commitment to un-learn and help change colonial behaviors.”

But apparently no serious effort has been made to “un-learn” the colonial behavior of promoting commerce. A link to the DH virtual store promotes a cookbook for the “pre-order special price” of $35, and also invites the seriously committed to take one-hour “group walks” for up to a dozen people and costing $150. There are discounts for “nonprofit organizations and indigenous people purchasing for educational purposes.” The noble purposes of the Desert Harvesters, despite a rhetorical seasoning that is heavily “woke,” may soon receive wider circulation. If supply lines continue to slow and food shortages become a reality in this country, mesquite pods may soon find a use in a kitchen near you. But if you believe that argument can be advanced while the pods are still falling and store shelves remain fairly wellstocked, you might as well look for beachfront property in Yuma — roll a heavy boulder up a steep hill time and again in truly Sisyphean fashion.

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Foothills Focus Columnist

states by working on legislation that would prohibit minors from attending drag shows.” A snippet from their press release’s money quote: “One of the reasons why we were elected as lawmakers by our constituents was to protect family values. … We will be damned if we won’t fight like hell to protect the most innocent from these horrifying and disturbing trends that are spreading across the nation now that extremist Democrats are currently in control of our federal government.” Guess I missed the press conference where President Biden glammed up

as Joy Riden and ushered in America’s Great 21st Century Drag Age. At the risk of injecting some reality into a story that reads like a lousy “Footloose” knockoff, there are in fact a tiny handful of events where children, accompanied by their parents, might be exposed to drag queens doing “horrifying and disturbing” stuff like reading aloud from Maurice Sendak’s “Where The Wild Things Are.” There’s Drag Story Hour Arizona, a nonprofit that promotes monthly “children’s story hours,” where “we

State lawmakers’ drag queen obsession is a drag

e live in dangerous times for children in Arizona. In 2020, 838 children died in our state, including 53 kids murdered and 49 lost to suicide. Firearms were to blame in 51 of these fatalities. Fentanyl claimed 57 young lives. In all, substance use was indicated in 157 child deaths. Have no fear, though. Last week, Arizona Senate Republicans trumpeted their decision to join “several other

see LEIBOWITZ page 8

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OPINION

LEIBOWITZ from page 7

generally read 3-5 stories, sing/dance to music, and end our time with a clean craft for kids to take home. All of our performers and volunteers are background checked and anyone reading to children goes through specialized literacy training.” There also was a June 3 event at the Heard Museum — the museum’s first Native American drag show — where indigenous performers with names like Pyraddictionn and Tomahawk Martini performed before a crowd that apparently included some kids and parents. And in May a Tucson high school held a drag show featuring students from the school’s LGBTQ+ student club. It all sounds relatively tame to me. And like an attendance decision best left to parents and kids, the way we do with things like R-rated movies, which kids can stream alongside porn on those cell phones they seem to get at about age seven these days. Even so, the rise of the drag queens

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 29, 2022

had gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake screeching on Twitter about an omnipotent evil “they,” as in, “They kicked God out of schools and welcomed the Drag Queens.” Hilariously, Lake made national news a day later, when she was outed as a drag queen bestie by her former pal, Phoenix drag icon Barbara Seville. Seville accused Lake of hypocrisy not only for attending multiple drag shows, but for hosting Seville at her house to perform at parties, including with Lake’s young daughter in attendance. It all made for great amateur theater, not unlike a drag show. But that’s our politics now: our elected Neros fiddling and tweeting away while all around them the state, the economy and the culture go up like the Pipeline Fire on a windy afternoon. Nothing I’ve witnessed at a drag show — yup, I’ve been — or on “Rupaul’s Drag Race: Untucked” is any more risque than your average trip to the apartment complex swimming pool or the beach in Rocky Point or

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Coronado. And I’ll guarantee you every weekend exponentially more Arizona kids go to the movies or stream violent, over-sexualized Hollywood crap than will witness Tess Ticular read “Hop

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On Pop” between now and the end of time. Meanwhile, those we elect are busy creating solutions in search of problems. At least it’s entertaining. Otherwise, it would be a total … drag.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Keep the ‘care’ in Carefree Editor: After a 40-year career starting as an engineer for DuPont and, ultimately, president of an engineering firm, I knew my wife and I were retiring to Arizona. We wound up purchasing a home in beautiful Carefree, which was probably, in part, due to the allure of the town’s name. However, living in Carefree never meant that we didn’t “need to care.” The upcoming August election is an excellent example. We need to be informed on the candidates running and the issues. On this, I must say that I am extremely disappointed and dismayed at Proposition 472, which would reduce the reliability of our water system as well as Prop 473 calling for term limits, which would ban people from serving again after four years, including a retroactive provision for terms served prior to this year’s election. Prop 474 is the best compromise, calling for staggered term limits (half the council elected every two years), ensuring that we keep important and historical knowledge on town council. As an executive whose responsibility was to make the best possible decisions on a range of corporate and technical issues, I placed a premium on working with proven, experienced people. So, when I look at the incumbents who, in addition to their time and devotion in serving the town of Carefree, have a wealth of experience as a CFO (Mike Johnson); a mechanical engineer/MBA and instructor in finance at the college-graduate level (Stephen Hatcher); a problem solver of water infrastructure projects for 40 years (Tony Geiger); a regional executive of a life insurance

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firm (Vince D’Aliesio); a marketing and communications businessperson (Cheryl Kroyer) and then add a retired director of municipal bonds at a world-caliber investment firm (Sheila Amoroso), how does their experience compare to the slate running against these people? That slate consists of only one person with any time on town council, another who is an airline pilot, a married couple — watch it. They are running with different last names. Do you think we can get two separate and independent votes from them? And, lastly, an insurance broker. I cannot for the life of me see what this slate brings to the table. To add to that, while the one mayoral candidate challenger has been vocal in his criticism of the present town council, I have not seen any proposals from him. The best way to show your “care for Carefree” is to visit carefreeunity.com and read the responses to the same list of questions asked to each candidate. Before you do, recognize that while you will see answers from everyone who I feel deserves our vote (Crane, Johnson, Hatcher, Geiger, D’Aliesio, Kroyer and Amoroso) you will find a response from only one on the slate of challengers. Judge for yourself which candidates to vote for and how to vote on the propositions. I will vote “No” on 472 and 473, “Yes” on 474. Don’t fall victim to those who insult our intelligence.

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OPINION

There are 11 people running for six council seats and two people running for mayor. Of the 13 candidates asking for your votes, seven are incumbents or have served on town committees. The remaining six are newcomers calling for change. They are not only saying it is time for change, but that the experienced people who have been running the town have made a mess of things and need to be replaced. What exactly have we made a mess of ? We have seen to it that all Carefree residents have access to a reliable, quality source of water; we have studied ways to increase revenues through sales taxes without sacrificing the character of our town. Yes, we approved a hotel in the town core (which is in the commercial center). Not only will the hotel generate tax revenue, but it will also help the businesses already in the town core, attract new businesses and provide a convenient place for our guests to stay. The Hampton Inn by Hilton is unlike any other Hampton Inn. Take a tour, walk through the lobby, pool area, rooms overlooking the Sundial and rooms with views of scenic vistas. What you will experience is more like a boutique hotel than the square box airport Hampton Inns. We are investigating ways to ensure that we have the best fire protection available. We asked a group of volunteers from the town to look at the issues surrounding Rural Metro Services and its ability to participate in automatic aid, as well as assessing the city of Scottsdale’s and Daisy Mountain’s ability to act for us in that regard. Coming out of that committee’s assessment, we have hired two independent consultants: one a financial expert to help us figure out how to pay for our new fire services and financially vet potential partners and a firefighting professional to help us figure out the best resource to use. We hired an economic development manager to help us attract new

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 29, 2022

business in those areas designated for nonresidential uses to minimize any disruption to nearby residential areas. We hired an independent traffic engineer to help us make our streets and crosswalks safe for pedestrians and motorists. And we are currently working with a signage company to make way finding in to and around our town easier. All these things took an understanding of the workings of our town and the knowledge base to prioritize and make good, solid decisions. It took me almost all of my first term to study all of the issues that affect our decisions and to understand what could be changed and what couldn’t and why. The candidates who want to get rid of us say experience doesn’t matter. I say not only does it matter but it is critical to success. Direct experience in the specific challenges needing to be addressed and a knowledge of the legal and regulatory situation is critical. Sadly, they don’t know what they don’t know. Prior to running for office, why didn’t they attend more than one or two council meetings, budget meetings, or at least volunteer to serve on a committee or attend a few town events? I would like to ask them to identify what they would do differently to better our town? So far, they have only offered criticism but no solutions. That is why I wholeheartedly endorse John Crane for Mayor; Vince D’Aliesio, Tony Geiger, Stephen Hatcher, Michael Johnson, Sheila Amoroso (who was part of the volunteer fire safety committee) for town council. I, too, am asking for your vote. We have the experience, the expertise and drive to continue keeping Carefree the place we all moved here for in the first place. Let’s keep it Carefree! Cheryl Kroyer Carefree Town Council member

A veteran supports John Crane for mayor Editor: John Crane has a demonstrated record of public service and leadership in the Carefree community, which is why I and the other members of the Veterans for Crane Committee support his bid for mayor. John is a full-time and long-term resident of Carefree. He has been active in the community through many volunteer and leadership roles — including HOA president, board member of the Desert Foothills Land Trust and Carefree vice mayor. He demonstrates sound judgment, knowledge of the issues, commitment to bettering Carefree and, above all, never leaves a job unfinished. Carefree requires the experience and committed leadership that John will provide. I encourage the community to support John Crane for mayor. William Oelman U.S. Air Force veteran Veterans for Crane Committee Carefree

Proposition 472 does not protect open space Editor: Proposition 472 is a ballot measure to be voted on in the Aug. 2 election. Prop 472 is not primarily focused on protection of all remaining open space, as most of its language will apply only to removal of the underground water tank being installed

in a utility easement along Tom Darlington Drive. Prop 472 is being put forth by a small portion of Boulders residents who are unhappy with the underground water tank. Carefree has been engaged in costly litigation with the unhappy Boulders residents. To date, they have lost all lawsuits and appeals, Prop 472 represents another effort to have the water tank removed. The location of the water tank was identified by the town’s consulting engineering firm as the most efficient and effective location. The area to be served by the water tank is the southwest section of Carefree. The water tank is an integral part of the Carefree water system that brings all Carefree residents into the town water system. Because Prop 472 is retroactive to 2021, if it were to pass, the water tank would have to be removed and a new location identified. Though we can’t predict the exact cost in the current environment, it has been estimated that this would cost approximately $10 million to $12 million, as of early June. Prop 472 represents bad governance and is a last-ditch effort to remove the water tank. We can’t let that happen. All Carefree residents need safe and secure water. The courts have made clear, we are within our legal rights to have our water tank in the current location, and we need it to stay there. Please vote “no” on Prop 472. Sheila Amoroso Carefree

How to get a letter published E-mail: christina@TimesLocalMedia.com

The Foothills Focus welcomes letters that express readers’ opinion on current topics. Letters must include the writer’s full name, address (including city) and telephone number. The Foothills Focus will print the writer’s name and city of residence only. Letters without the requisite identifying information will not be published. Letters are published in the order received, and they are subject to editing. The Foothills Focus will not publish consumer complaints, form letters, clippings from other publications or poetry. Letters’ authors, not the Foothills Focus, are responsible for the “facts” presented in letters.

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OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 29, 2022

AROUND THE BLUHMIN’ TOWN

Shopping has become a scavenger hunt BY JUDY BLUHM Foothills Focus Columnist

hortages. Our new reality. If we could only figure out what is next to be delayed, out of stock or unavailable, it might help us plan our lives. Instead, we have entered the chaotic world of uncertainty. Just yesterday we were hunting for toilet paper. We couldn’t find a noodle or bean anywhere. Fast forward, and now parents are desperate for baby formula. Appliances are on back order. Cement? Try to get it. And products like eggs and certain coffee creamers are hard to find. Our convenient lifestyle has been replaced by shopping scavenger hunts and long delays. Supply chain madness? China shutting down factories? Our own manufacturing mess-ups?

What the heck is happening? It is hard to believe that the airlines canceled or delayed about 10,000 flights in one weekend because of weather, staffing shortages and lack of pilots. Well, weather is one thing. But where are the TSA agents? Pilots, please come back because we need you! The passengers face not only inconvenience, long lines and missed connections, but heartbreaking disappointment. The daughter that cannot get to her father’s bedside before he passes; the grandparents that miss their granddaughter’s wedding; the honeymoon that is postponed; the cruise ship that is missed; the family that can’t make it to their parent’s golden anniversary party. People’s lives have been upended, tears shed and opportunities lost forever. Come on airlines, do better. Don’t schedule what you can’t deliver! Truckers left the driving business in droves. We seem to be continually short of

food workers. Half of all public pools are closed due to lack of lifeguards. Where is everybody? We have inflation, maybe heading toward a recession, so the argument that people just don’t want to work cannot be true! There is an exodus of essential workers, like police officers, teachers and health care providers. Some complain of rough working conditions, lack of the public’s support, low wages and high stress. Their mass departure would result in a much bigger problem than not being able to find our favorite brand of coffee creamer. Oh, mighty potato, a staple in American pantries, where art thou? We miss your golden goodness. Please come back soon. Sriracha sauce? Look forward to a dull, mild summer since the Huy Fong Co. said there is a failed chili pepper harvest. Yikes, ladies, there is tampon shortage, and this is barely fit to print! What now? The

options are daunting. Some things you just cannot substitute. As for eggs, chickens and turkeys, we might consider getting a few backyard critters to see us through these weird times. If you are living in a HOA, this might be tricky though. I went to the store to buy a jar of sweet pickles. Why would something so ordinary (but necessary in potato salad) be completely missing from the shelves? Maybe I will get my favorite salad dressing. Nope. Out of stock. An elderly lady started crying in the grocery store aisle when she couldn’t find one bottle of distilled water, required for her husband’s C PAP breathing machine. Traveling or shopping? Try to stay strong. Please don’t cry. Judy Bluhm is a writer and a local Realtor. Have a comment or a story? Email Judy at judy@judybluhm.com.

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BUSINESS

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Business TheFoothillsFocus.com

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John Postgate is Anthem’s partner in grime BY FOOTHILLS FOCUS STAFF

ohn Postgate was walking through his Anthem neighborhood when he and his daughter smelled something unpleasant. “We were walking one afternoon after trash day and everyone’s bins were out,” Postgate said. “It smelled awful. I started looking in the bins to see if they were empty and they were. They were just gross.” So, he quit his job and eight months ago co-founded, with venture capitalist Bruce Hogan, Anthem Bin Cleaners. The business cleans trash and recycle bins, driveways and sidewalls and pool decks.

“This kind of business is really starting to grow — especially in the hotter states,” said Postgate, who moved to Anthem four years ago. “It’s very popular in Texas and Florida. There are a few other companies here in town, but nobody is servicing our area.” Anthem Bin Cleaners covers New River, Happy Valley, Anthem, North Phoenix and Cave Creek. “We’re still pretty new, but it’s gone well so far,” he said. “Nobody knows this really exists, but it’s a great service to have. Once people get their bins cleaned, they want to continue the service. It gets rid of germs, too.” The company offers several pack-

John Postgate’s Anthem Bin Cleaners saves water, time and the environment. (Cassandra Tomei/ Submitted)

(Cassandra Tomei/Submitted)

ages for up to two bin — $25 a month; $30 every other month; $45 quarterly or $65 for a one-time service. He recommends the monthly service for families larger than four who also have dogs. Deodorizing services are available, too. Postgate usually performs the service the day after trash pickup when the bins are empty. The company also uses 90% less water than customers who choose to clean the bins with a hose. “If you want to do it yourself, you’re going to spend two hours doing it, use 100 gallons of water and pour a bunch of chemicals into the street,” he said. “We’re much more efficient. We’re not dumping a bunch of chemicals, either. It’s all self-contained in the trailer. We’re a green business. With

water being scarce, this is great.” Postgate has only lived in Anthem for a handful of years, his family relocated there after he graduated Shadow Mountain High School. He attended NAU but graduated from ASU with a degree in biology. Postgate and his wife, Chanelle, have two children, Aisley, 10, and Remington, 2. “I love everything that makes Anthem Anthem,” he said. “It’s nice to be accepted in the community. I know I’m doing a weird thing, but people like it. I’m known as the ‘trash guy’ and that’s fine with me.” John Postgate Anthem Bin Cleaners

602-820-2665 john@anthembincleaners.com anthembincleaners.com

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FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 29, 2022

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Likability is an asset we must access CHURCH COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Pastor Ed Delph

Foothills Focus Columnist

ave you noticed that some people are naturally likable? They find it easy. Other people may not possess the intangible of likability, but with a bit of work can be just as likable as those who find it easy. Consider the story below. “I ran short of money while visiting my brother and borrowed $50 from him. After returning home, I wrote him a short letter every few weeks, enclosing a $5 check in each one. He called me and told me how much he enjoyed the letters, regardless of the money; I had never written regularly before. Eventually, I sent off a letter and the last $5 dollar check. In my mailbox the next week, I found an envelope from my brother. Inside the envelope was another $50.” Likability can be as simple as that. I understand not everyone likes to be likable, which isn’t very likable. But this article is for those who want to grow in likability. Let’s increase your probability of likeability. Our whole world could use a dose of likeability right now. Likeability is contagious. Be a carrier and a courier. When I say likability, I’m not talking about an ego-driven, dominant person wanting to control others or some needy, self-absorbed person searching for significance by manipulation. That type of behavior repels people unless they wish to use these types of people for their agendas. Instead, I’m talking about likability with honor. That is where people like and respect you for just being you. Likability is centered on others, not ourselves.

Here are some excerpts of suggestions about likability from life coach Jonathan Wells. There’s nothing new about these suggestions. It’s applying the suggestions that unleash likeability. Watch your life transform once these suggestions turn into habits. Habits are the only servants that will work for you for nothing. The first suggestion that unleashes likeability is learning to say “please” and “thank you.” The Bible says love is not rude. People turn off rude people. So, when you want something, say “please.” When someone does something nice for you, say “thank you.” You can’t turn people on if they want to turn you off. Second, follow the golden rule. Jesus said it: treat others the way you want to be treated. There would be no murder, no gossip, no backbiting or stealing if everyone applied this. Then people can spend time going forward rather than unpacking emotional baggage from being treated wrongly. Peter DeVries said, “We are not primarily put on this earth to see through one another but to see one another through.” Third, work and cooperate with others toward a common goal or the common good. “Help someone… just because.” That means no agenda. Make it easier for others at the grocery store by getting your cart out of the aisle. Work with them, not against them. So many people in today’s world are like two peeves in a pod. William Ward says, “Raised voices lower esteem. Hot tempers cool friendships. Loose tongues stretch truth. Swelled heads shrink influence. Sharp words dull respect.” The fourth suggestion is to smile

often. Smiling elevates your mood and lifts the spirits of those people at whom you smile. If you don’t believe me, try this little experiment. Before you say a word to anyone for an entire day, smile first; notice their reaction. Most will smile back. Another smile starts most smiles. Smiling also increases your face value. It’s like a free facelift. The fifth suggestion is saying, “I’m sorry.” If you wrong someone, make a mistake or hurt another person (intentionally or unintentionally), apologize for it. Don’t justify or play the blame game. Don’t allow your shame to cause you to blame. Please cancel the subscription of your issues to others. It’s better for you and them. Accept the blame but not the shame. The sixth suggestion to be more likable is to be a good listener. It’s not always easy, but listening tells others that you are genuinely interested in them as a person, and who doesn’t like that? Skillfully listening is the best remedy for loneliness, loquaciousness (too talkative) and laryngitis. Complimenting others is the seventh suggestion for likeability. Have you ever received an unexpected compliment? A sincere compliment can be very encouraging in a world that tends to be overly critical. Arthur Fettig said, “It takes courage to speak a sincere compliment. It is easy to complain and criticize because you are upset and your anger motivates you, but stand up and call a good job a good job. You cannot possibly make another person as happy as you are by complimenting another.” My final suggestion for likeability

is to laugh. Laughing releases endorphins that make you feel happy and relaxed. When you laugh, you will also be encouraging laughter from others. When you contribute to the happiness of others, they can’t help but like you. W. Grant Lee said, “Shared laughter creates a bond of friendship. When people laugh together, they cease to be young and old, master and pupils, worker and employer. Instead, they become a single group of human beings, enjoying their existence. There you go. Likeability is a positive, God-given life skill that unleashes and uplifts other people’s day and your day. Likeability is yours; take it. Ed Delph is a noted author of 10 books, as well as a pastor, teacher, former business owner and speaker. He has traveled extensively, having been to more than 100 countries. He is president of NationStrategy, a nonprofit organization involved in uplifting and transforming communities worldwide. For more information, see nationstrategy.com. He may be contacted at nationstrategy@cs.com.

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FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 29, 2022

Fiber art group holds regional conference BY FOOTHILLS FOCUS STAFF

“D

iscovering Desert Diversity – The Splendor of Southwest Lands” is the theme for the 2022 Studio Art Quilt Associates Arizona Regional Conference set for Friday, Aug. 19, at Phoenix Forge, a community makerspace, 535 W. Van Buren Street, Phoenix. Fiber artists and art quilters from around the world are invited to attend in person or online to experience a workshop and speakers focusing on 3D textile work as well as an art exhibit at the Herberger Theater Gallery. “Many of our talented SAQA Arizona members are working in 3D already, and others are anxious to learn more about it,” said Debra Kay, SAQA Arizona regional representative. “It brings a whole new dimension to our fiber art.” A preconference workshop will be held by internationally known fiber artist Betty Busby of New Mexico. Busby

will lead a three-day session titled “The Third Dimension” from Tuesday, Aug. 16, to Thursday, Aug. 18. Busby will also give a talk on her 3D quilted art during the conference. Linda Blust of California will offer her take on 3D quilted art with her presentation on her flock of birds. Kay Kahn of New Mexico, who creates fiber wall art, vessels and wearable art jewelry, will also speak about “Kay Khan’s Textile Sculpture: Structure and Inspiration.” In addition, Jan Downey of Phoenix will discuss “Cultural Appropriation,” and Kirby Plessas of Cave Creek will talk about cybersecurity and art. A vignette of 3D fiber pieces will be on display during the conference, consisting of a 7-foot saguaro, created by Kay, as well as other fiber art wall quilts. In addition, an exhibit of “Discovering Desert Diversity” featuring quilted art from SAQA members in Arizona, New Mexico, Southern California and South-

Kay Kahn of New Mexico creates fiber wall art, vessels and wearable art jewelry. This piece is “Upend.” (SAQA/Submitted)

Betty Busby will give a talk on her 3D quilted art during an upcoming conference. Shown here is a Busby fiber vessel. (SAQA/Submitted)

ern Nevada will be on display at the nearby Herberger Theater Center’s Gallery, with a reception on Friday, Aug. 19. The public is invited to attend. Additional information can be found on the group’s Facebook page at

Studio Art Quilt Associates, Arizona Region or by emailing Debra Kay at changebuilding@gmail.com. To register for the conference and the Betty Busby class visit https://bit.ly/ BusbyPhoenix

Linda Blust, whose art is above, will offer her take on 3D quilted art with her presentation on her flock of birds. (SAQA/Submitted)

FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 29, 2022

CAVE CREEK

Local Jonny’s Tavern and Cafe, 6033 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, 6 to 9 p.m., 480488-7473, localjonnys.com

Writer’s Connection The Foothills Focus publishes on Wednesday. The weekly calendar — a listing of entertainment events such as concerts, theatrical performances, events for schools, churches, county parks and nonprofit groups — runs every issue. Events must be open to the public to be considered and generally must be held within the Foothills Focus coverage area. Events such as concerts and theatrical performances that fall outside the Foothills Focus circulation area will be considered because there are no concert halls or theater venues within our boundaries. Weekly calendar items print on a space-available basis. The only way to guarantee that an item will print is to purchase an advertisement. Submissions must reach our office by 4 p.m. Wednesday to be considered for the following Wednesday publication. Submissions must be in writing and may be emailed to Christina Fuoco-Karasinski, christina@ timespublications.com.

Craft N Chat

Kids from the ages of 2 to 18 can craft to their heart’s content in the Imagination Lab. With no staff to act as supervision, all kids must be accompanied by an adult. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., free admission, 480-488-2286, dfla.org

MONDAYS Those who knit or crochet are invited to the Desert Foothills Library for Craft N Chat. New and experienced crafters and are welcome to join. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, 1 to 3 p.m., free, dfla.org

Oceans of Possibilities: Summer Reading Program

Yoga Fusion THURSDAYS Join Elizabeth Boisson in an intermediate-level course of Yoga Fusion at the Desert Foothills Library from noon to 1 p.m. Thursdays. The class will start with breathing exercises and then go through different types of stretching movements and then into Vinyasa or the Flow yoga. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, noon to 1 p.m., $10 cash per class, dfla.org

TO AUGUST 1 All summer long, come celebrate the gift of reading with the Desert Foothills Library. All ages are encouraged to register for events. This summer, the theme is “Oceans of Possibilities,” so expect plenty of ocean related programs to help get your feet wet. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, 3:30 p.m., free admission, 480-488-2286, maricopacountyreads.org

Friday Night Bull Riding & Mutton Bustin’

Puzzle Exchange

JULY 1 Come together with other writers and discuss how to work on dialogue, world building and more to finally get the work done. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, 1 to 3 p.m., 480-488-2286, dfla.org

Lego: Build Your Own Adventure: Unsupervised JULY 5 Come to the Imagination Lab and let the kids try out the wonderful world of Lego. Let them hone their fine motor skills and explore their creativity with the library’s supply of Lego and minifigs. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., free, 480-488-2286, dfla.org

Caring for the Caregiver JULY 5 Taking care of loved ones is important, but to do so, a caregiver must also take care of themselves. Join hospice worker Judy Peters and openly share your feelings with other caregivers, discovering new tools to navigate the difficult journey ahead. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, 10 to 11:30 a.m., free, 480-488-2286, dfla.org

Morning Stretch at the Rocks JULY 6 Enjoy views of nature while stretching out by the rocks. Improve range of flexibility, relax muscles and let go of body tension. Any fitness level is welcome. Bring an exercise mat. Desert Hills Presbyterian Church, 34605 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., 480-980-3439, operations@deserthills.org

If You Read a Kid a Book JULY 6 Join Miss Heather every Monday at the Imagination Lab to hear sections of chapter books read aloud. Related coloring sheets will be provided for kids to enjoy while listening. The program, while open to all ages, is ideal for children 8 to 11. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, 10 to 11 a.m., free admission, 480-488-2286, dfla.org

Service Industry Night & Karaoke JULY 10 Celebrate the service industry and good company at the Cave Creek Corral with karaoke from 9 p.m. to midnight. Enjoy inexpensive beers and priceless company. Harold’s Cave Creek Corral 6895 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, 8 p.m., free admission, 480-488-1906, haroldscorral.com

JULY 1 Find new and interesting puzzles to solve, and help others find something for themselves. Drop off gently used puzzles and come exchange the old for the new all day at the library. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 480-488-2286, dfla.org

FRIDAYS Come watch riders rodeo on the back of a mighty bull. For children ages 3 to 6, sheep are available to ride alongside them. Buffalo Chip Saloon and Steakhouse, 6823 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, 8 p.m. to 11:45 p.m., $10 tickets $20 to ride a bull, buffalochipsaloon.com

Kevin Causey at Local Jonny’s Tavern

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JULY 1 Kevin Causey performs on the back patio of Local Jonny’s Tavern on Friday.

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YOUTH

Youth TheFoothillsFocus.com

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Preteen cleaning up with soap products BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

hen the pandemic forced Stevie Gillies to attend school virtually, her father thought it would be fun to experiment with creating soap. “My friends and family liked it and they encouraged us to sell it,” said Stevie, an 11-year-old Anthem Prep student who lives in Cave Creek. With the help of her parents, Steve and Teri Gillies, Stevie caught the entrepreneurial bug and together they founded Stevie’s Handmade LLC. She has been selling her handcrafted, artisan soaps at local farmers markets and fairs for two years. Some of her signature scenes are apple shea butter; marshmallow and vanilla latte; charcoal

Stevie’s Handmade soaps can be found at local farmers markets and fairs. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

Stevie Gillies, with the help of her parents, Steve and Teri Gillies, founded Stevie’s Handmade L.L.C. (David Minton/Staff Photographer) and shaved cedar; juniper and sage; orange crush; shaved cedar; coffee bar; pink lady apple; birch and juniper; lavender; strawberry; mango and papaya and coconut lime. Terri said her daughter’s shyness has abided some since she started her business. “The best thing has been watching her confidence take off,” said Terri, an analyst at PXG. “She loves the farmers markets. Everybody’s been so supportive. Her confidence has grown, and she’s come out of her shell a little bit. She loves doing it. It’s fun for her and it’s been great overall.” Stevie’s Handmade LLC has also taught the preteen practical math skills, and the value of money and being creative.

1720 E DEER VALLEY RD., #104

Stevie Gillies started making soaps after having to swtich to virtual school during the pandemic. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

“She lights up talking about her soap,” said Steve, a motorcycle mechanic. “She loves telling people about it, her favorite scents and the soap that moisturizes best. This is all her. If she wants to stop tomorrow, we’re done. But we’re proud of her.”

Stevie Gillies’s parents said they are proud of what she’s accomplished. (David Minton/Staff

Photographer)

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 29, 2022

Youth trap shooting team heads to nationals BY ANNIKA TOMLIN Foothills Focus Staff Writer

hooting has been a way of life for Texas native Mike Caddell. Now, the volunteer head coach for the Carefree Christian Academy trap shooting team is taking the youngsters to the National High School Scholastic Clay Target Championship Tuesday, July 5, to Saturday, July 16, in Marengo, Ohio. The young athletes are seeking sponsors to help pay for their trip. Interested parties can contact the school at 480-553-0856 or email Miriam Winkler at winkler@carefreechristianacademy.com. The NRA-certified firearms instructor said it’s important to impart his knowledge and this heritage along. “But, like a lot of things, I have probably learned more from them throughout the school year than I could have ever taught them,” Caddell added. In the sport, targets are launched from a single “house” or machine, generally away from the shooter. They oscillate between left, right and center at speeds from 60 to 90 miles per hour, he said. The goal is to shoot a perfect score of 25. The Carefree Christian Academy team is Alyssandra “Ali” Clark, Sierra Lewis, A.J. Winkler, Hudson Crofoot and Bradley “Cash” Rothrock. Recently, Hudson took first place for individual placement at the Carefree Church Annual Sporting Clay event. A.J. placed first for the team event at the same tourney. Sierra landed in second place in bunker trap among all Arizona high school females, qualifying her for the Junior Olympics. As a seven-year experienced shotgun shooting instructor, Caddell emphasizes safety. Before they join the team, students must pass his 10-hour shotgun certification course along with a 100-question test. Each of the five students passed and the team began competing last fall. “This whole thing is about safety and having a safe attitude and building confidence,” Caddell said. “When everybody starts in a sport like this, you can see the nervousness just holding the firearm. Over time, as they become safer and they increase their atti-

tude as far as safety, you see the confidence. You see the nervousness goes down and the confidence builds.” Freshman A.J. said he wasn’t the highest scorer to begin with but grew over time. “My highest score at the beginning, I think it was like 10 to 11 (out of 25) on a good day and it wasn’t good,” he said. “But then (Caddell) taught us the shooting positions, different ways to track the target like following through the mount to get ready to shoot and just the order of safety to ensure everything is safe and ready for you to shoot. “I’ve always liked guns per se, and I saw (the team) as an opportunity to learn how to use them. It teaches you the basic safety of it and just gives you fun competition, something to do after school and experience really.” Ali, whose father hunts game, inspired her to join “From the beginning, I was pretty awful at it,” Ali said. “But then coach taught me all these different types of stances, gun mounts and positions and where to place your gun when shooting it. It helped me a lot to get to where I am now and it’s given me a lot of confidence and I’m really happy about where I am right now.” Caddell compared his team’s increasing confidence to watching a puppy grow. He noticed his team’s camaraderie during a December 2021 competition in Tucson. “You have to pay a lot of attention to detail doing the sport,” Caddell said. “The fact that they’re out here right now, we come out on Wednesdays and Friday mornings and they’re not at home on their computers and iPads, they’re out. Their parents have them out doing stuff and it’s a really cool deal.” The team practices at Ben Avery Clay Target Center. When Caddell started the program last year, he was skeptical about the team’s potential for success. He was soon proven wrong. “When we did the Commissioner’s Cup in the state, we took third and we knocked off big schools like Xavier and Brophy,” Caddell said. “In clay target shooting sports, the

boys and girls are on equal ground so there is no advantage to one gender over the other.” The program is adding skeet, in which targets are launched from two machines in somewhat sideways paths that intersect in front of the shooter. “Going into next year, Ali and A.J. and three others will be shooting American trap, American skeet and Olympic international bunker trap (with the hope of qualifying for the Junior Olympics),” he said.

Head coach Mike Caddell, center, volunteers to teach students A.J. Winkler, left, and Alyssandra “Ali” Clark for the trap shooting team. (Annika Tomlin/Staff Photographer)

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