The Foothills Focus 071322 Zone 2 by Times Media Group

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NEWS.................. 4

Carefree town council, mayoral candidates

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Serving the communities of Cave Creek and Carefree

Cave Creek - Carefree Area Edition

Wednesday, July 13, 2022

Candidate forum addresses the issues BY ALLISON BROWN Foothills Focus Staff Writer

ave Creek candidates gave campaign pitches, answered residents’ questions and addressed concerns at a forum in Frontier Town held June 30. The event was hosted by Marc and Beverly Peagler, Frontier Town owners. The idea was to have the open space serve as an unbiased platform for everyone to have a chance to speak. Matthew Peagler served as the moderator for the forum.

Those in attendance were mostly incumbents, including mayoral candidate Bob Morris and town council candidates Ernie Bunch, Charles (CW) Jensen, Thomas McGuire, Kathryn Royer and Ron Sova. Those absent were mayoral candidate Eileen Wright and town council candidates Tom Augherton, Susan Clancy, Paul Eelkema, Katya Kincel, Anna Marsolo, Bryan (Dusty) Rhoads and David Smith. “I will say, on June 7, an email was sent out to every candidate for both mayor and council informing them of tonight and everybody

was invited,” Peagler said. Mayoral candidates had five minutes to speak and council candidates had three minutes each to speak before the floor was opened up for questions. Bob Morris, running for mayor, started things off. “I’m running on leadership, initiative, integrity and results,” Morris said. “Ten years ago, I got into town government on the water advisory committee … I went to my first meeting and said ‘This town is in trouble on

see FORUM page 6

A breakdown of Carefree’s upcoming election

FEATURES......... 17

Burger restaurant has a ‘Tru’ passion for quality food

YOUTH.............. 20

Social worker enhances girls’ self-esteem

OPINION.................... 13 FEATURES................. 17 CLASSIFIEDS............. 21 Zone 2

BY ALLISON BROWN Foothills Focus Staff Writer

he 2022 primary election in Carefree is Tuesday, Aug. 2, when residents will vote on the town’s mayor, six council members and three propositions. Proposition 472 would require supermajority council vote and voter ratification for development to take place on town-owned land deemed “open space/recreation” and would prohibit the use of eminent domain to develop privately-owned land designated as “open space/recreation.” This would be retroactive to Jan. 1, 2021, and the town would be responsible for the cost of re-

see BREAKDOWN page 6

Sundial-Town Hall: In this year’s election, residents will vote on Carefree’s mayor, six council members and three propositions. (Town of Carefree/Submitted) 4454 East Thomas Road • Phoenix, AZ 85018

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NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 13, 2022

Carefree town council, mayoral candidates 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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BY ALLISON BROWN Foothills Focus Staff Writer

Running for mayor John Crane Age: 66 Years in Carefree: 33 Years in Arizona: 35 Education: B.S. Mathematics, Villanova University; M.S. Systems Management, University of Southern California; US Navy Nuclear Power School andSubmarine School Job: Sales Representative of materials and equipment used to make semiconductors, JH Crane & Associates, Inc. (28 years) owner

• Have you served in public office and, if so, when and where? Carefree town council 2012 to present; Carefree vice mayor 2015 to present. • Prior to your decision to run, how have you been involved in the community and/or in town government-related activities? Served as a Carefree councilmember and vice mayor, planning and zoning commissioner, Desert Foothills Land Trust vice chair, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation commissioner, an HOA president and a hands-on supporter of virtually every town-initiated community event in the past 10 years. A 33-year Carefree resident. • What prompted you to run? A passion to serve and bring value to the community. Driven by the desire to successfully complete the integration of all Carefree residents into the Carefree Water Company, build a community consensus to ensure financially sound, quality fire protection and encourage economic development without compromising the character of our community. • What do you bring to the table that would serve Carefree well? Experience having served as a Carefree councilmember and vice mayor. Intimate knowledge of the town’s ongoing water integration and public safety challenges. Successful small business owner of 28 years and a fiscal conservative. Demonstrated re-

spectful listener, engaging with residents and business owners. Analytical thought process. I know Carefree. • Name three top concerns in Carefree and tell how you would solve them. (1) Reliable/ John Crane Sheila Amoroso quality water: Complete the integration of all residents into the arts and culture in the community? Carefree Water Company; encourage water Why or why not? While Carefree, given conservation; and explore water charging. our limited budget, cannot spend more (2) Arrive at a consensus for a financially to support museums, arts and culture, we sound fire protection system to ensure pub- can make our gardens and pavilion availlic safety. (3) Encourage responsible eco- able, work with Thunderbird Artists to alnomic development within the town with- low quality art festivals in our streets and out compromising the character of the town. act as a facilitator to make connections and • How would you assess the town’s enable related events within our town. handling of growth and what are your • How would you manage the continutop priorities for future growth? The ing acquisition and expansion of the town has worked to balance develop- Carefree Water Company? Complete ment and sales tax revenue generation moving all Carefree residents onto the while preserving the Sonoran Desert, Carefree Water Company, complete unmaintaining the character of our town, derground tank construction and work bringing development with value for with adjacent neighbors to plant vegetaour residents and generating sales tax tion to address their concerns. Prop 472 on the periphery of the town and in the would require removal and relocation of the water tank at a cost of millions of town core so as to minimize impact. • Name something you would change in dollars. Vote no on Proposition 472. town government that would improve • Is town government sufficiently it. Approve sensible term limits with stag- transparent? What changes would you gered four-year terms ensuring continuity advocate? While Carefree complies with and preserving institutional knowledge all transparency and open meeting laws, and experience, making for more effective I will continue, as I have as vice mayor, and stronger councilmembers better posi- to immerse myself in the community, tioned to engage with town staff and mind listening and speaking with residents. resident’s interests. Term limits will legis- Each council member will be brought to late turn over, bringing in new candidates. the table, leveraging their strengths and Vote yes on Proposition 474. expertise, making them part of every dis• Do you support the town center re- cussion. vitalization project? Why or why not? Yes. The town center must have a robust Peter Sample commercial base to help fund town operations and expanding needs. Develop- Did not respond to the questionnaire ment initiatives must be balanced with the sensitivity of maintaining the character of our town, bringing development Running for town council that brings value to our residents and generating sales tax revenue. Sheila Amoroso • Do you think Carefree should be see CANDIDATES page 8 spending more to support museums,

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NEWS

BREAKDOWN from page 1

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 13, 2022

water,’ and that started my six year journey on the water advisory committee. I’m now completing my fourth year on council.” He discussed what the Cave Creek town government has accomplished over the last 20 years, including the fire department. The fire department was implemented without a new property tax or an increase in sales tax, lives are going to be saved with this service, home insurance will be lower and property values higher. Morris added that his career in the petrochemical industry gives him experience in issues that apply to the town. Next up was Cave Creek Mayor Ernie Bunch, who is now running for town council. Bunch talked about his long tenure on council and in the town, with 17 years on council and 70 years in the community. He said he is running again to see some things through, like the Phoenix water interconnect, before he “rides off into the sunset.” Charles (CW) Jensen was the only new candidate who attended the forum. He spoke about his former job as a police captain in Portland, Oregon, and how that helps him know the nitty gritty details of town government. “I worked for the government,” Jensen said. “If you don’t check the government now and then, the government just does what they want to do. And for the last three years, Cave Creek has just done what they wanted to without any kind of oversight.” Jensen said he has three priorities — forming a better relationship with the sheriff’s department for increased

enforcement, creating regular reports from each town department on what it is working on and making a bigger commitment to the tourism office and to tourism dollars. The next speaker was Thomas McGuire, a current council member who has served for 15 years and is running for town council again. “I traditionally am known for the work that I did on trails and open space,” McGuire said. “We’ve got a lot of open space, look at what happened with Spur Cross. Look at those wonderful people that set aside the top of Black Mountain. We’ve got a lot to be proud of.” He added that one of his most recent actions was increasing the community grant funding in the budget from $20,000 to $40,000 to support places like the Cave Creek Museum. Kathryn Royer spoke about her career at the Central Arizona Project and how it has given her insight to how to help manage the town’s water resources and led to what she considers her greatest accomplishment on council. “I worked there 20 years and have a great rapport with the people that I worked with and it has paid off for Cave Creek,” Royer said. “For the first time, we will be banking our excess CAP water underground in CAP reservoirs that they built when I was there. We have been letting our excess water stay in the canal for other people to buy, rather than saving it for our own future.” She said while water is her number one priority, communication is second. She said the town has done a lot recently to improve communication with residents, but there is still more work to be done.

The last candidate to speak was Ron Sova, an incumbent running for town council. Sova detailed his previous service on town council, the planning commission, water advisory committee and board of directors for the Rancho Madera HOA. As the last one to speak, Sova said he didn’t feel the need to restate town council’s recent achievements and instead talked about what it takes to make those achievements happen. “It’s a team effort. One person does not cast the vote and something gets passed or denied,” he said. “To have a good working relationship with your fellow council members and town staff is extremely important. We don’t always agree on everything, but it’s good to have healthy debate all the time and we do reach consensus.” About 20 people listened and asked questions after the candidates’ opening remarks. The first question, addressed to Morris, asked for Cave Creek’s big issue. “It’s going to be, ‘Do we have enough water,’ because cutbacks are likely coming,” Morris answered. “The CAP is going to probably have reductions. Farming in Arizona is going to take the biggest hit. The next two to four years dealing with the water shortage is critical.” Another resident addressed all candidates and asked if they were aware of the town’s “homeless problem” and its solution. Most candidates said this was the first they had heard of the problem. Jensen said as a former police captain, this was something he dealt with a lot, and police can’t arrest someone just for not having a residence. It can, however, do more to enforce trespassing, loitering and vagrancy. Bunch added it is a difficult situation, but

that he would bring it up to council to see if something could be done. Concerns were also raised about traffic and roadside safety. Morris and Royer addressed this issue by referring to a recently conducted pedestrian safety study. Royer said, from the results of that study, the town is investing $100,000 on lit pedestrian crossings in 2023. When a comment about dark skies came up, Royer clarified that the lights only turned on when a button is pressed by a pedestrian. Jensen said some of the concerns brought up are examples of why Cave Creek needs a stronger relationship with the sheriff’s office. “I have never lived somewhere where there was such a disconnect between law enforcement and the town,” he said. “We pay a million bucks a year, basically, for the sheriff’s office and I think they should be more involved with us.” Bunch seconded this comment and added he favored the posse cars that used to serve the town. With no more questions, candidates gave brief closing remarks. “I don’t think you’re going to find a council in the town’s history that’s been more efficient at identifying the issues in town, whether it be water, fire, water supplies, accounting or budgeting issues or Desert Hills or the rest of it,” Morris said in closing. “We’re working on all these things on your behalf … I’m really proud of the people I’ve worked with and in fact, all the candidates are high quality people who are trying to do right in the town. I think you’ve got a good group to choose from and I hope you choose wisely.” The general election is Tuesday, Nov. 8.

storing property. If this proposition is passed, Carefree would be required to remove the underground water storage reservoir currently under construction in an open space owned by the Boulders homeowners association and pay to return the land to the way it was before. The other two propositions being voted on are both regarding term limits. Proposition 473 would limit a per-

son to being elected or appointed to council or mayor for more than two, two-year terms, including terms served prior. Proposition 474 would limit a person from being elected or appointed to council or mayor for more than two consecutive four-year terms. For those who served two consecutive four-year terms, they would not be eligible to hold office again until four years have passed. There are two candidates running for mayor — current mayor John Crane and

Peter Sample. There are 11 candidates running for the six available town council seats, several of which are incumbents. The primary election is Tuesday, Aug. 2. Ballots are mailed (if requested) and early voting begins on July 6. The general election is Tuesday, Nov. 8. The last day to register to vote in the general election is Monday, Oct. 10. Early ballots can be cast starting on Wednesday, Oct. 12. Voter registration forms can be obtained by contacting

the town clerk’s office or at the Maricopa County recorder’s office. Online registration is also available at maricopa. gov. More information about the election, including answers to FAQs can be found at carefree.org. This edition of the Foothills Focus contains candidates’ answers to questionnaires that were sent out to all those running. Answers were edited only for length, and the full responses can be found online at thefoothillsfocus. com.

FORUM from page 1

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NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 13, 2022

FORUM from page 1

Age: 62 Years in Carefree: Two Years in Arizona: Two Education: B.S. Dietetics, M.S. Finance Job: Retired

• Have you served in public office and, if so, when and where? No. • Prior to your decision to run, how have you been involved in the community and/or in town government-related activities? I was a member of the Carefree Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC). Our committee was charged with evaluating current services and options for renewal of our existing service or new contracts. We also analyzed revenue sources to cover the increased costs. Our report is available for review on the Carefree website. • What prompted you to run? When I moved to Carefree, I knew I wanted to get involved in the community. I joined the Public Safety Advisory Committee and enjoyed working with community members, collaborating to find a solution for an issue the town was facing. My background in public finance provided value to the committee. • What do you bring to the table that would serve Carefree well? I retired as the director of the Municipal Bond Department at Franklin Templeton Investments. I have 34 years of experience investing in public infrastructure and was the leader of over 30 investment professionals. Our investment decisions required deep analysis of all aspects of government budgets, services, tax policy and public policy. • Name three top concerns in Carefree and tell how you would solve them. (1) Public safety — support the recommendations of the PSAC-analysis of financial needs and appropriate fit for fire service. (2) Water — continue to support the Carefree water consolidation project, so all Carefree residents have access to high quality water and service. (3) Growth — Come up with new ways to increase community engagement earlier in the planning process. • How would you assess the town’s handling of growth and what are your top priorities for future growth?

Vince D’Aliesio Like other towns in Arizona, we are experiencing growth and growing pains. We are a mostly built out residential community. To make growth less painful, my priority would be to substantially increase community engagement to make sure all voices are heard to create a shared vision for future developments. • Name something you would change in town government that would improve it. One priority would be to substantially increase community engagement. After spending time talking to a wide variety of residents, I understand that some residents who would have liked to attend the public meetings for our bigger projects weren’t aware of the meetings. We need to improve our outreach. • Do you support the town center revitalization project? Why or why not? Yes, many of the buildings could use an update. The most important part of this project will be to get community involvement early in the process so we can build a consensus around a shared vision. Carefree is a small, charming community and we want it to stay that way. • Do you think Carefree should be spending more to support museums, arts and culture in the community? Why or why not? To a certain extent. We are a small town heavily reliant on tourism and sales tax revenue which means limited financial flexibility. If museums, arts and cultural events need to be subsidized, we would have to carefully review the benefit to the town, the residents and local businesses. • How would you manage the continuing acquisition and expansion of the Carefree Water Company? I fully support the consolidation of all residents under Carefree water. Not all water systems are created equally. While subscribers of Carefree water were receiving high qual-

Tony Geiger

Glenn Grossman

ity water and service, Carefree resident subscribers of Cave Creek were not. The new water debt is being paid for by the new Carefree subscribers only. • Is town government sufficiently transparent? What changes would you advocate? I firmly believe they have followed all transparency rules and regulations. What needs to improve is our communication strategies. They have not been strong enough to make sure people that wanted a voice in planning were being heard. I plan to increase our efforts in this area.

Vince D’Aliesio

Age: 50 Years in Carefree: Six Years in Arizona: 41 Education: NAU: M.Ed, ASU: B.S. Job: Consultant, educator, broadcaster • Have you served in public office and, if so, when and where? Yes, two terms on Carefree Town Council. • Name your biggest accomplishment while involved in town government that you took the lead on and why that issue is important. I led the proclamation passed by council in 2021 to rename the Sundial Plaza: The Gerry Jones Sundial Plaza and proclaim March 6: “Gerry Jones Day” in honor of our most important living pioneer, the founding of our community and architectural designs that ultimately define the “Carefree lifestyle.” • Why are you running for council again, what is left for you to do specifically? Complete the water transition project, fire safety project and continue economic development. • Name three recommended changes that would improve town government. (1) Term limits restrict the qualified pool of candidates. Use your vote wisely and decide who you want representing you.

Stephen Hatcher

(2) Encourage residents to become involved in projects to improve our community. (3) Eminent domain — we utilized this to acquire property with the optimum location to bury the water tank. • How would you assess the town’s handling of growth and what are your top priorities for future growth? The town has grown slowly, and growth has been sustained. We are at 80% resident buildout, with most of the remaining 20% being uninhabitable property. We are continually evolving as a town; we are no longer a tourist destination. We need to continue revitalizing our Downtown and draw sustained tax revenue. • Name something you would change in town government that would improve it. Continue to express to residents that town staff and council are accessible to meet one-on-one with residents. We can never say that enough. • How has your public service benefited Carefree? I work well within council, ask questions and do my homework before voting, listen, get along with others and value teamwork. I have followed through on promises to ensure quality water service, continue bringing commerce downtown, and value our past with voting to restrict the type of commercial development that can be installed. • Do you support the town center revitalization project? Why or why not? Yes, I support the revitalization, as we rely on 3% sales tax to function as a town and the revitalization will continue to promote commerce and charm to our town core. • Do you think Carefree should be spending more to support museums, arts and culture in the community? Why or why not? No, I believe these

see CANDIDATES page 9

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 13, 2022

CANDIDATES from page 8

items should be supported by our local nonprofits and residents, and they in turn can benefit from displays and events. The town can and should donate space and facilities for events to these organizations, when feasible. • How would you manage the continuing acquisition and expansion of the Carefree Water Company? The water company’s growth has been slow and sustained. Our water company director, Greg Crossman, does an exceptional job managing expectations of that growth and the water company has contracted engineering firms to aid in the transition project. We as a board meet regularly with Greg and manage those expectations. • Is town government sufficiently transparent? What changes would you advocate? The town is extremely transparent. I encourage residents to attend all public meetings and make appointments with myself or town staff to gain a greater understanding of town operations. Public meetings and agenda items are posted, and residents can sign up for email alerts. We have amazing staff and council members.

Tony Geiger

Age: 61 Years in Carefree: 21 Years in Arizona: 21 Education: B.A. Economics, University of the Pacific, 1983 Job: Retired

• Have you served in public office and, if so, when and where? Yes, Carefree Town Council. • Name your biggest accomplishment while involved in town government that you took the lead on and why that issue is important. While I have only been on the council for less than two years, I have been volunteering my time on town issues since 2013. The biggest accomplishments are the closure of the Boulders sewer plant and making the Carefree Water Consolidation Project a reality. • Why are you running for council again, what is left for you to do specifically? My priorities are working to enhance Carefree’s future water resources by starting a recharge project for unused

Michael Johnson

Cheryl Kroyer

CAP water and joining the study to raise Bartlett Lake. I want to ensure the town does adequate due diligence in its evaluation on upgrading fire service to automatic aid. • Name three recommended changes that would improve town government. (1) The town needs more ways for citizens to get involved, volunteer and be engaged in town government. (2) More community outreach, possibly utilizing mailers. (3) Four-year staggered council terms to blend in new members without losing institutional knowledge. Reduce political volatility. • How would you assess the town’s handling of growth and what are your top priorities for future growth? With no primary property tax and 60% of the town budget funded by volatile local sales taxes, the town has done a good job under difficult circumstances. My priorities are to implement the detailed economic development plan passed by the council on Jan. 4. • Name something you would change in town government that would improve it. Pass proposition 474, fouryear staggered terms. It will reduce political volatility and lead to better government. It takes a year or two for new members to learn the job and to be up for reelection and have to start a campaign within 16 months of taking office is not productive. • How has your public service benefited Carefree? Closing of the Boulders sewer plant has greatly improved the quality of life for those residents. The water consolidation project will greatly improve the lives of the over 1,100 residents who will be directly impacted and bring benefits to the entire town. • Do you support the town center revitalization project? Why or why not?

Kathlina Lai

I support the project. It will bring new and interesting businesses to the town center that will enhance the quality of life for our residents. The project is overwhelmingly supported by the businesses in the town center, and they provide the majority of funding for the town budget. • Do you think Carefree should be spending more to support museums, arts and culture in the community? Why or why not? I would like to see the town provide more support, but the reality is there are not the resources to do so. Unfortunately, public safety, road maintenance and other critical needs crowd out all but the most necessary expenditures. • How would you manage the continuing acquisition and expansion of the Carefree Water Company? There will not be further expansion of the water company. The water consolidation project is to bring the 550 Carefree accounts (1,100 citizens) served by Cave Creek into the Carefree Water Company so that all citizens in the town have representation for this critical resource. • Is town government sufficiently transparent? What changes would you advocate? The town works very hard to be transparent and information is in the public domain, but more can be done to increase engagement of citizens. Greater outreach to the citizens and more opportunities to volunteer and engage with town government would help increase the perception of transparency.

Glen Grossman

Age: 66 Years in Carefree: 16 Years in Arizona: 25 Education: College degree in accounting Job: Insurance agent • Have you served in public office and,

Gene Orrico if so, when and where? No. • Prior to your decision to run, how have you been involved in the community and/or in town government-related activities? I have been an active member of the chamber of commerce, including leading the ambassadors for a time. Many times, my wife and I worked the gates at the Thunderbird Fine Arts Festival. I was also a Scottsdale mounted posse man volunteer for five years with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. • What prompted you to run? I am approaching a point where I can focus my attention on my community, rather than my business. I’m concerned that our town is losing its disciplined approach to spending public funds. I seek to use my extensive background in financial management to keep the town solvent without property taxes or bonds. • What attributes do you bring to the table that would serve Carefree well? I’m a CPA by trade with over 30 years’ experience in financial administration and corporate management. I’ve lived in Carefree for 16 years. • Name three top concerns in Carefree and tell how you would solve them. (1) Fire and emergency services — Endorse and expand our contract with Rural Metro, which is the only provider that fits the town’s budget. (2) Growth management — Create a citizens advisory committee to support development review and ensure maintaining our small-town character. (3) Downtown revitalization — Update and implement the village master plan. • How would you assess the town’s handling of growth and what are your top priorities for future growth? Most residential growth is low-density.

see CANDIDATES page 10

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NEWS

CANDIDATES from page 9

I would like to see development rights transfers to preserve larger swaths of natural open space. Growth is inevitable, but it should pay for itself and be consistent with the town’s aesthetic character. • Name something you would change in town government that would improve it. I believe that Prop 473, two, two-year term limits, will help reinvigorate participation in our local governance. • Do you support the town center revitalization project? Why or why not? Yes, absolutely. We must promote increased retail sales so that we can fund our town budget without property taxes. • Do you think Carefree should be spending more to support museums, arts and culture in the community? Why or why not? Yes, public/private partnerships should be explored to fund these town amenities. This will add to the charm of our lovely town center. • How would you manage the continuing acquisition and expansion of the Carefree Water Company? It should

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 13, 2022

have been voted on after disclosure of the project’s expected total cost. Now, all property in the town is encumbered for water service to a small part of the town who already had water service. It’s too late to stop this, but I will work to expose the actual costs and objectives. • Is town government sufficiently transparent? What changes would you advocate? No, I would support limiting executive sessions for more transparency.

Stephen Hatcher

Age: 65 Years in Carefree: 11 Years in Arizona: 31 Education: B.S. mechanical engineering, MBA finance Job: Investment manager for Baird Private Wealth Management

• Have you served in public office and, if so, when and where? Yes, Carefree Town Council. • Name your biggest accomplishment while involved in town government that you took the lead on and why

that issue is important. We really don’t distribute tasks to the council members. We all work together to solve issues facing the town. I believe the biggest accomplishment will be the new fully integrated piping system. • Why are you running for council again, what is left for you to do specifically? We need to complete the integrated piping system and hopefully develop the northeast corner of Cave Creek Road and Carefree Highway. • Name three recommended changes that would improve town government. I only have one recommendation and that is to get the community more engaged. The town tries hard to get the residents to come to our council meeting, but attendance is always low. • How would you assess the town’s handling of growth and what are your top priorities for future growth? Carefree grows at a fairly slow pace but we like that. The Hampton Inn has been one of our largest endeavors and it will bring in revenue and support local business. I would like to see the water integration and development of the northeast corner

of Cave Creek Road and Carefree Highway completed. • Name something you would change in town government that would improve it. Not answered. • How has your public service benefited Carefree? Strongly pushed away from event driven business activities and forward with the plan for bringing in business that provides a strong and consistent revenue for the town’s economic vitality. • Do you support the town center revitalization project? Why or why not? Yes, I would like to see more and clearer signage, more pedestrian friendly walkways, safer crosswalks, more convenient parking and some downtown renovations. • Do you think Carefree should be spending more to support museums, arts and culture in the community? Why or why not? No, we need businesses that can thrive all year and contribute to the economic viability of our town. • How would you manage the continuing acquisition and expansion of the

see CANDIDATES page 11

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CANDIDATES from page 10

Carefree Water Company? There is no “continuing acquisition and expansion.” The Carefree Water Company acquired water rights to about 520 homes. Carefree residents asked us several times to aid them in exiting the Cave Creek water system. After an unfortunate and unnecessary legal battle, we finally gained control of our entire water system. • Is town government sufficiently transparent? What changes would you advocate? I would not advocate any changes by the town. Everything we do is openly discussed in our council sessions and our sessions are recorded and placed on our website.

Michael Johnson

Age: 69 Years in Carefree: 17 Years in Arizona: 17 Education: B.S. Business Administration; Accounting and Economics 1978, certified public accountant 1980 Job: Retired chief financial officer

• Have you served in public office and, if so, when and where? Yes, Carefree Town Council. • Name your biggest accomplishment while involved in town government that you took the lead on and why that issue is important. I’ve been a councilperson since September 2021 (eight months). I’ve volunteered my time for town issues since 2015. Accomplishments include helping negotiate the commercial rezoning of the northeast corner at Carefree Highway and Cave Creek to ensure it enhanced our town (ordinance 2018-06), traffic safety and Carefree water consolidation project. • Why are you running for council again, what is left for you to do specifically? My priorities are to increase Carefree’s future water resources by joining the study to raise Bartlett Lake and starting a recharge project for unused CAP water. We need to ensure the town does thorough due diligence in its evaluation for upgrading fire service to automatic aid before making a commitment. • Name three recommended changes that would improve town government. (1) More community outreach and com-

munications. (2) Carefree needs more options for citizen involvement, volunteering and being a part of town government. (3) Four-year staggered council terms that blend in new members without losing institutional knowledge. • How would you assess the town’s handling of growth and what are your top priorities for future growth? Local sales taxes make up 60% of the town’s budget; we have no property tax. The town has managed well under those conditions. My goal is to help develop the remaining commercial properties to fit with the character of Carefree and raise more revenue. • Name something you would change in town government that would improve it. Pass proposition 474, four-year staggered terms. It will reduce too much turn-over on the council and create a better government. It takes several years for council members to learn the job. After 16 months of taking office, one must then start a re-election campaign which distracts from governing. • How has your public service benefited Carefree? The Carefree water consolidation project allows all residents to connect to the water in the town in which they live and fulfill a promise made to over 1,000 residents at the time the water system was acquired. We now have turning lanes at Provence and 60th Street on Carefree Highway. • Do you support the town center revitalization project? Why or why not? Yes, I support the project. It will bring robust new businesses to the town center and enhance the quality of life for our residents. The project is supported by the businesses in the town that provide the majority of funding for the town budget. • Do you think Carefree should be spending more to support museums, arts and culture in the community? Why or why not? It would be great to see the town provide more cultural support. Sadly, there are not many resources to provide this support. Public safety, road maintenance and other critical requirements are first priority. However, there is no reason not to pursue funding for these important cultural pursuits. • How would you manage the continuing acquisition and expansion of the Carefree Water Company? The water

see CANDIDATES page 12

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NEWS

CANDIDATES from page 11

company will not be expanded beyond the in-process Carefree water consolidation project that will bring the 550 Carefree accounts (1,100 citizens) served by Cave Creek into the Carefree water system. The project enables all citizens in the town to have representation for water. • Is town government sufficiently transparent? What changes would you advocate? The town has worked very hard to be transparent and provide information on its website, by using COINS and through open public meetings. Citizens are actively encouraged to engage the town. There is room for improvement by offering more opportunities to volunteer and actively reaching out to our citizens.

Cheryl Kroyer

Age: 73 Years in Carefree: 24 Years in Arizona: 24 Education: B.J., University of Texas at Austin Job: Retired

• Have you served in public office and, if so, when and where? Yes, Carefree Town Council • Name your biggest accomplishment while involved in town government that you took the lead on and why that issue is important. Working on the solution to bring safe, reliable water to all of the town’s residents. The water consolidation project not only does that but also ensures that supply for the years ahead as we face a major drought. • Why are you running for council again, what is left for you to do specifically? There are still things to do. Most importantly, finding ways to increase revenues to cover police and fire service. Also, to finish making our roadways safe for pedestrians and getting consistent signage throughout the town. • Name three recommended changes that would improve town government. (1) Encourage more citizens to participate in the process upfront. (2) Hopefully keep a council that works well together; listening to each other with respect and solving differences together. (3) Honestly, I think the town’s gov-

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 13, 2022

ernment is working pretty well as it is, not that there can’t always be improvements. • How would you assess the town’s handling of growth and what are your top priorities for future growth? Our economic development plan seeks to maintain our quality residential neighborhoods for which we are known. However, we are seeking to find complementary parts that will help enhance our sales tax-centric financial model and help offset the need to raise additional taxes. The plan is focused on areas which have non-residential uses. • Name something you would change in town government that would improve it. I believe our town government works pretty well within the parameters of legislated guidelines. The only thing that would help, and it is not feasible on our operating budget, is to have more employees helping out. Right now, most of our staff fills two or more jobs. • How has your public service benefited Carefree? I helped get the water consolidation project approved and moving, worked with signage experts to improve the town’s way finding, and worked with traffic engineers to make our streets and crosswalks safer. I am involved with working with economic development to find ways to increase revenues without changing the makeup of our community. • Do you support the town center revitalization project? Why or why not? Yes. We are not looking to change the identity of Carefree. Our revitalization projects seek to maintain and protect our quality residential areas. We are seeking to find complementary parts that will enhance our sales tax centric financial model and offset the need to raise additional taxes, like the Hampton Inn. • Do you think Carefree should be spending more to support museums, arts and culture in the community? Why or why not? We are already a venue for music, live theater, garden seminars and have a number of fine art galleries in town. We do everything to support those using our town as a venue. • How would you manage the continuing acquisition and expansion of the Carefree Water Company? This is mostly finished. The construction of the water

reservoir is the last stage of the conversion of all homes in our community to receive water from the Carefree Water Company. Once the reservoir is finished in the next month or two, we will be done. • Is town government sufficiently transparent? What changes would you advocate? I believe we are. All decisions and meetings are open to the public. Three or more of us never gather in private, protecting rights and ensuring the public has a say in decisions. Sometimes we have executive sessions, but this is for sensitive issues that cannot be discussed in open forums.

Kathlina Lai

Did not respond to the questionnaire

Sven Maric

Did not respond to the questionnaire

Gene Orrico

Age: 79 Years in Carefree: 13 Years in Arizona: 13 Education: M.A. in Business Job: A certified teacher to special needs children (seven years); insurance and real estate broker (24 years); owner-operator of three insurance agencies employing 24 people and a general contractor for 26 years • Have you served in public office and, if so, when and where? I served as a councilman in Carefree for five years. • Prior to your decision to run, how have you been involved in the community and/or in town government-related activities? Past Carefree councilman, past president of the Kiwanis Club of Carefree, vice-president of the Carefree/Cave Creek Italian American Club, treasurer of the Carefree Shadows HOA, sitting board member of the Kiwanis Club and Kiwanis Foundation of Carefree. • What prompted you to run? Unhappy with the direction that the town is going. • What attributes do you bring to the table that would serve Carefree well? All my past and present experiences with the town and numerous community organizations. Thousands of hours of

community service. • Name three top concerns in Carefree and tell how you would solve them. (1) Unsightly high-rise buildings, which are not the character of Carefree, shouldn’t be allowed. (2) Blocking streets for festivals causes our small business owners to lose thousands of dollars and the town loses sales tax revenue; host them out of the way at the gardens. (3) Term limits should be staggered. • How would you assess the town’s handling of growth and what are your top priorities for future growth? We need more eclectic, small mom and pop businesses and a different variety of restaurants. Private/public partnerships which can help to fill empty storefronts and buildings, promote our smalltown businesses. • Name something you would change in town government that would improve it. A listening ear to all the residents of Carefree. • Do you support the town center revitalization project? Why or why not? In theory yes, in reality no. An example is the out of place airport building Hampton Inn. • Do you think Carefree should be spending more to support museums, arts and culture in the community? Why or why not? We already have 13 art venues, a beautiful botanical garden, a performing arts and music amphitheater and the Kiwanis Kids Splash Pad. What we need is sales tax businesses that produce revenue for the town. • How would you manage the continuing acquisition and expansion of the Carefree Water Company? The die is set in the acquisition and expansion of the Carefree Water Company. The mayor and council are the head and board of directors for Carefree Water Company. • Is town government sufficiently transparent? What changes would you advocate? Yes, to a degree. Any major decisions which affect the town and all its residents, aside from being on the town’s website, should also be included in the monthly water bill which all residents receive.

Duke Vukotic

Did not respond to the questionnaire.

OPINION

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AROUND THE BLUHMIN’ TOWN

Alexa is overstepping her boundaries BY JUDY BLUHM Foothills Focus Columnist

h Alexa, how did we ever manage without you? “I am not certain of this and have no opinion,” Alexa replies dryly. OK Alexa, please speak to me in my mother’s voice and give me the weather report. “Judy, it is sunny today with a high of 95 degrees. Wear sunshade.” Thanks Mom, I needed that. Yes, the future is here. Amazon has revealed it has developed a way for its Alexa voice to replicate the speech of a dead relative. That’s right, with just one minute of recorded speech, artificial intelligence now has voice synthesizing capabilities to let Alexa mimic your deceased friend or relative. While many find this a tremendous breakthrough in technology, others feel it is creepy. The head scientist in charge of Alexa’s newest vocal abilities claims, “We are unquestionably living in the golden era of artificial intelligence, where science fiction is becoming reality.” OK, let’s all fasten our seatbelts because the “new world” is coming and it seems nothing, when it comes to Alexa, will be off-limits. My father had a radio program, so I have plenty of tapes of his voice. I still have a long message in my voicemail that my mother left me the week before

she died. Do I really want to hear their voices in present day conversations? They could tell me the weather, recite news reports and even read me books or recipes. I love the thought of listening to them, but something tells me we are entering the twilight zone. Amazon now wants to expand the “companionship relationship” so many folks have with Alexa. In this role, Alexa strives to “have human attributes like empathy which builds trust.” Oh yeah, dear readers, be careful. We might be trusting our virtual assistant a little too much. My beef with Alexa is she never stops listening. Evidently our “helpful” devices do not turn off, meaning that private conversations are not exactly private. Of course, many people believe this is the small price to pay for convenience. How can we have a “smart house” without a little bit of intrusion from an empathetic robot? We don’t want to go back to the dark ages, before technology enhanced (ruled) our lives. This is the world we have created. I like to point out to my grandsons that I lived pre-text, pre-Alexa and pre-Siri. You know, those olden days when phones were used for talking and we had to remember things. The daunting experience of living in a low-tech past is simply a fading memory that has no place in the current era of “smart” devices. (Perhaps

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

humans are becoming dumber.) Years ago, I drove 3,000 miles across country with no GPS or cellphone. I read a map, like a pioneer! With technology we can do things faster. Is artificial intelligence making us smarter, or more dependent? I will ask Alexa her opinion of this and to answer in my mother’s voice. That would be the icing on the technology cake, because as always, Mom is the voice of reason. Judy Bluhm is a writer and a local Realtor. Have a story or a comment? Email Judy at judy@judybluhm.com.

Catalyst, Convener, Champion

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OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 13, 2022

Pima County Dems July 4 disrespect may backfire BY J.D. HAYWORTH Foothills Focus Columnist

hris Matthews, during the “pre-MSNBC Celebrity” phase of his career, penned an article in 1991 for The New Republic in which he detailed the parentally partisan roles of the two major parties, based on the basic family unit. “‘Daddy’ (the Republican) locks the door at night and brings home the bacon. ‘Mommy’ (the Democrat) worries when the kids are sick and makes sure each one gets treated fairly.” Today that convenient partisan shorthand is as outdated as the 1950s TV sitcoms which Matthews claimed as the inspiration for his theory. Three decades later, the “family political dynamic” must include a third group of active participants. Biology, psychology and current events indicate the new “contributors”

to the political process are spoiled brats who throw public tantrums. And their profane exhibitions are decidedly “family unfriendly.” “Peoples’ Exhibit A” comes from right here in Arizona. The Pima Country Democratic Party promoted an event — a protest, actually — for Independence Day. Sadly, the “F” in the first word of the event’s name did not stand for the “Fourth.” That tweet subsequently disappeared faster than you could fry an egg on a sidewalk in Sahuarita during the summer. In its place came a longer twitter thread, which began in contrite fashion: “PCDP posted a graphic which, we agree, was in poor taste … That was a mistake, and we will do better.” So far, so good … but so-so must have been the reaction of the Pima County Democrats involved in drafting that internet response. As is often the case, a party committee tasked with formulat-

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ing a reply is usually more concerned with arriving at a consensus rather than quelling a controversy. This one was no different. The subsequent two threads of the replacement tweet grew more shrill and combative: “Make no mistake, however. We support the event which will be on July 4 at 7 p.m. at Reid Park. “The event was organized to help women in our community grieve for the loss of their bodily autonomy, which we consider an elemental right. Our posting of the graphic upset some people. We urge you to save your outrage for the women in this state who will die of botched abortions. Arizona is not a good place to be a woman right now.” Apparently, Reid Park in Tucson on the Fourth of July was not a good place to be for radical leftists who hoped to draw attention to a stance they would characterize as “pro choice.” Why? Because Tucson media outlets made a conscious choice not to cover the event with the obscene name. Usually, newsroom assignment editors make every effort to cover events organized by leftist grievance mongers. But in this case, the theme was so objectionable it resulted in non-coverage. Clearly, the dropping of the “f-bomb” in polite company has grown in frequency, and neither political ideology

nor partisan label ensures it will not be uttered. But this coarsening of our culture cannot be condoned under any circumstance, least of all to curse Independence Day. A Democrat-turned-Republican offered a humorous take on the differences between our two major parties, including a gentle nudge to the party of his youth and an exaltation of the party he joined, while including a mention of Independence Day. “Republicans believe every day is the Fourth of July,” said Ronald Reagan, “but the Democrats believe every day is April 15.” Arizona Democratss may find another date on this year’s calendar even more taxing: Election Day.

Griner case illustrates plight of detained Americans BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Foothills Focus Columnist

he open letter to President Biden, written by hand and released on the Fourth of July, tore at the heart. This is the unfortunate plight of Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner, wrongfully detained for 143 days and counting in a godforsaken gulag 6,000 miles from home.

“As I sit here in a Russian prison,” Griner wrote, “alone with my thoughts and without the protection of my wife, family, friends, Olympic jersey, or any accomplishments, I’m terrified I might be here forever.” She went on to beseech Biden: “I realize you are dealing with so much, but please don’t forget about me and the

see LEIBOWITZ page 15

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 13, 2022

LEIBOWITZ from page 14

other American Detainees. Please do all you can to bring us home.” We have been told by the White House press secretary that Biden has read the letter. We also have been told his Administration will “use every tool we possibly can” to bring Griner home. I hope so, because Russian news reports have said Griner, arrested on Feb. 17, faces up to 10 years in prison for allegedly having .702 grams of hash oil in 2 vape cartridges in her luggage. She pleaded guilty to drug charges on July 7. Biden and the U.S. State Department should use every tool in America’s toolbox to secure Griner’s release — exactly as he should on behalf of the more than 60 Americans currently held hostage in foreign countries. Like Paul Whelan, a former Marine wrongfully detained in Russia since 2018. Like “the Citgo 6,” petroleum executives wrongfully held in Venezuela

since 2017. And like Alina Lopez-Miyares, wrongfully locked up in a Cuban prison since January 2017. In a more just world, we would care about all these Americans with the same vigor and at the same loud volume. The truth? As a culture, we have a limited attention span, a finite amount of compassion we spend in dollops — a sprinkling for the homeless here, a few spoonfuls for the struggling poor there, and a drip or two for Brittney Griner. Is that right? I don’t think so. I wish we had an endless reserve of compassion, enough to go around in the right proportions. Even so, I disagree wholeheartedly with Mercury head coach Vanessa Nygaard, who took dead aim at America in comments supporting Griner last week. “If it was LeBron, he’d be home, right?” Nygaard declared. “It’s a statement about the value of women. It’s a statement about the value of a black person.

It’s a statement about the value of a gay person. All of those. We know it.” Actually, it’s a statement about how little we pay attention to wrongful detainees and their suffering. Virtually no one save the families of the imprisoned has made a peep about wrongfully imprisoned Americans anywhere, about Whelan, the Citgo 6 or Lopez-Miyares. This silence has nothing to do with race, gender or who someone loves. It has everything to do with our culture’s capacity to empathize. Nygaard seems to think if Griner was male, white and straight, America would be threatening nuclear war. Reality says otherwise. Nygaard is correct about one thing, though. If LeBron James was wrongfully imprisoned, Americans would be rioting in the streets. That has everything to do with celebrity, which is the only reason you have heard about Brittney Griner’s case at all. If Griner couldn’t dribble, couldn’t dunk, wasn’t a six-time WBNA All-Star,

READER’S VIEWPOINTS

her imprisonment would be occurring in silence. Nygaard is dead wrong about for whom we care and why. We reserve the greatest compassion for the most famous among us — it is a perverted truth about the American way. I hope Brittney Griner comes home soon. And I hope we bring every other wrongfully detained American home with her.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Open letter to Carefree Mayor Les Peterson Editor: Thank you, Mayor Les Peterson for your service to the town of Carefree! I met Mayor Peterson in 2017 at a spring event in town that he was volunteering in, and he encouraged me to get involved. He extended himself to teach me about all of the great things happening in our community, and continued to encourage me to come in and meet with him, the council and town staff. Mayor Peterson was instrumental in working with Liberty Utilities to have the sewage treatment plant removed from the Boulders. He helped in the water transition project for the west side of our town’s residents in getting onto the Carefree Water Company service, and has been a steady, calm, reasoned influence on our community, from when the late Mayor David Schwan had to step down in 2015 due to health issues, to serving through this year in helping to

prepare a new generation of town servants, led by our next mayor, John Crane. Thank you, Mayor Les Peterson for your mentorship, your leadership, your friendship, and your service to the town of Carefree! Vince D’Aliesio Carefree councilmember

No to term limits; yes to experience Editor: I am writing to voice my opposition to Proposition 473, which would preclude a person from being eligible to be elected or appointed to the office of councilmember or mayor for more than two two-year terms, including terms served prior to the passage of this measure. The main problem I see with this proposition is that it would deny our town the talents of highly experienced past and current council members. Unlike the elections for federal, state

and large city offices where there is a large pool of qualified candidates for office, this is not the case in small towns like Carefree. To deny current and past office holders the ability to serve the town does not make sense. Short term limits like that of Proposition 473 deny our citizens the ability to vote for the best candidates by excluding some of the most qualified ones. Regarding the concern that it is bad for the town to have the same people on the council for an extended period, I can tell you from my experience in living for over 40 years in a medium-sized Minnesota city, that this should not be a concern. The current mayor in my former city has served effectively for over 10 years as have most of the councilmembers. These people continue to get elected because they are highly competent and experienced councilmembers who have done an excellent job for many years. They consistently get favorable ratings in surveys of the citizens in this city.

In fact, this city was selected in the list of the 10 best cities in the country to live in by Money Magazine several years ago. I am going to vote for the candidates with the most experience and those are the incumbent councilmembers: John Crane, Vince D’Aliesio, Tony Geiger, Stephen Hatcher, Michael Johnson and Cheryl Kroyer. With a number of critical and possibly costly decisions to be made during the next council term, I want to go with these candidates who have the experience and good judgment to make these difficult decisions. Mike Wold Carefree

Sample is man of integrity Editor: Peter Sample is an intelligent, honest, decent man of integrity. He cares deeply

see LETTERS page 16

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OPINION

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 13, 2022

LETTERS from page 15

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about preserving Carefree’s open spaces while balancing development that is appropriate for our community. He knows growth is necessary, but he wants it to be aligned with our values. Public safety is his top priority and I know he will work to ensure that the town of Carefree aligns with a member of the regional automatic-aid fire system. I have not agreed with some of the actions taken by our current politicians, and I am worried about what other irreversible actions they will bring upon Carefree if they are re-elected. Peter Sample will absolutely have my vote to be our new Carefree mayor. Wendy Mattes Carefree

The case for Peter Sample is not simple Editor: Two letters have recently been published regarding Carefree mayoral candidate Peter Sample: The “Case for Sample is simple” and “Carefree mayoral candidate sets the record straight.” The latter was written by Mr. Sample. In the “Simple” letter, the author states that Mr. Sample has been living in Carefree and primarily watching council meetings on Zoom. The author equates the preceding with living in Carefree, becoming involved in community activities, and making a contribution as equivalent to one another. They simply aren’t. In the “Set the record straight” letter, Mr. Sample seems intent on focusing his objections on the Hampton Inn, which was endorsed by Carefree residents many years ago. Had Mr. Sample been involved in community activities extending further back than the start of the current election season, he may have learned the following pertinent facts: The Hampton Inn is built on property that has been commercially zoned for over 30 years. The commercial zoning allowed for a structure such as

a Hampton Inn or another multistory, commercial building. Prior to the Hampton Inn, a three-story, identical height, condominium project was slated for this same property, but inadequate financing forced the cancellation of the project. Once a property is commercially zoned, the private owner cannot be denied development if the usage proposed is in compliance with the zoning restrictions. Such was the case with the property upon which the Hampton Inn is built. A municipality becomes liable for financial damages if it precludes a private owner from utilizing his property in a manner permissible under zoning regulations. The development of a Hampton Inn fits in with the strategic direction resolved by the residents of Carefree in a well-publicized project (how to revitalize the downtown Carefree area). We personally attended the numerous public meetings and Council meetings led by the Baker Group in 2015 -2016. When the Hampton Inn and its drawings consistent with the end product, were brought forth for final council approval, there were no dissenting comments. In compliance with the zoning restrictions and resident support, and in keeping with the town’s recently approved strategic plan, the council approved the Hampton Inn construction. So, for Mr. Sample to come forward at this late date, citing his issue of “No Hampton Inn” has broad resident support and making it an election issue, demonstrates how far away from the history and realities of Carefree he really is. What is he proposing? Tearing it down? The property owner has the legal right to develop the commercial property. The Hampton Inn will infuse much-needed revenue to Carefree supporting annual expenses and decreasing the need for discussion of property taxes to Carefree homeowners. Perhaps an immersion in Carefree activities and town government would be a more appropriate starting point for Mr. Sample than running for Carefree mayor. Jim Whitmer, Veteran USN Nancy Keller, RN

••

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Burger restaurant has a ‘Tru’ passion for quality food BY ALLISON BROWN Foothills Focus Staff Writer

tuart Gee had worked on the executive side of the restaurant business his entire career, so when he and his wife, Fawn, decided to buy their own restaurant, he gave it his all. The Gees bought Tru Burger in Anthem in 2017 and have since transformed it from a casual burger/hot dog and milkshake joint to a booming bar and grill. The idea was always for it to be a “better-for-you” burger restaurant, but while they kept the original Tru Burger name, Gee said he expanded the menu to include sandwiches, salads,

entrees, appetizers and a full bar. “We beefed up our inventory of our bourbons, Scotches and whiskeys, beefed up our craft beer selection, and then really upgraded the whole menu — from the buns the burgers go on to the burger meat itself to the fries to the recipes,” Gee said. He also created turkey, salmon and ahi tuna patties to add to the menu, as well as an Impossible burger and veggie burger. These patties can be substituted for any of the menu items. Not only that, but he added nine different salad options to the menu as well. And, according to Gee, all of this is handmade fresh in-house. “We needed more options to make sure that we’re appealing to all ages

Catalyst, Convener, Champion

Besides its famous Angus beef burgers, Tru Burger offers salads, sandwiches, entrees, appetizers and a full bar. (Tru Burger/Submitted) and all different types of folks,” he said. “I mean, there are people that don’t eat meat, and we didn’t want that to be a veto vote to come into our restaurant. So we needed some delicious items that they could have that were freshly prepared with as much care and service as we do with the burgers. And I think that’s been a big part of our success.” Tru Burger is now serving three entrees, too — an 8-ounce Gold Canyon Angus beef top sirloin steak, a Paillard-style grilled chicken or a fresh grilled salmon, each served with skinny fries and oven-roasted vegetables. Some of the most popular menu items are the jalapeño burger ($13.45), with pepper jack cheese, crispy jalapeño, lettuce, tomato and sweet jalapeño aioli on a brioche bun, and the whiskey BBQ burger ($12.45), which has cheddar, applewood bacon, onion rings and homemade whiskey BBQ on a wheat bun. Gee didn’t just focus on the food, though. He also added a lot to the bar. After all, what better way to top off a

burger and fries than with a cold beer? Gee said the restaurant stocks a variety of craft beers, including a few local to Arizona. As a full bar, it can mix up most cocktails as well. Its signature drink is a Smoky Old-Fashioned. Bulleit bourbon, along with what Gee called their “secret ingredient,” is aged for two weeks in barrel to create a barrel-aged Old-Fashioned completely unique to the restaurant. With all those changes, Gee didn’t lose sight of the restaurant’s roots. Tru Burger patties are 8 ounces of 100% antibioticand hormone-free Black Angus beef. He said other fast-casual burger restaurants usually use an 80/20 blend of meat and fat that is not natural, often with added hormones, which he said can change the internal body and how it works. “Then, just from a flavor standpoint, you can get a juicy, fatty burger like that, but it’s going to taste just a little bland,” Gee said. “When you get a Black Angus burger, the meat is a little bit more coarse-

see TRU BURGER page 18

••

FEATURES

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TRU BURGER from page 17

ly ground, so it’s a little bit more like steak and it’s got a richer, deeper flavor in the meat than you normally get in another burger. So, not only does it taste 10 times better, but it’s actually better for you.” Even despite the food, Tru Burger is known for having an excellent, friendly staff. Gee said it is a sit-down, full-service restaurant. He said the restaurant doesn’t really have a typical crowd; they see everything from families and business colleagues to burger aficionados. In the five years the Gees have owned Tru Burger in Anthem, he said sales have grown an average of 20% each year. All of this ties into Tru Burger’s mission to inspire the local community with its “Tru” passion for a custom, fresh, high-quality experience while ensuring dedicated support to our local economy. Tru Burger

39504 N. Daisy Mountain Drive, Anthem 623-465-5000 geeconcepts.com

One of the most popular menu items is the jalapeño burger, with pepper jack cheese, crispy jalapeño, lettuce, tomato and sweet jalapeño aioli on brioche. (Tru Burger/Submitted)

Another popular menu item is the whiskey BBQ burger, which has cheddar, applewood bacon, onion rings and homemade whiskey BBQ on wheat. (Tru Burger/Submitted)

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

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 exercising 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

Friday Night Bull Riding & Mutton Bustin’ FRIDAYS Come watch riders rodeo on the back of a mighty bull. For children 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

Crafternoon – Unsupervised FRIDAYS 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

Live Music at Janey’s Coffeehouse NIGHTLY Come listen to live music every night at Janey’s Coffeehouse, performed by a variety of talented local artists. The venue has over a dozen unique performers each month, and for those looking to perform, new talent is encouraged to come by and sign up. This week, join Walt Richardson on Wednesday, July 13; Tim Brady on Thursday, July 14; the Loud House Band on Friday, July 15; Notes from Neptune on Saturday, July 16; Nancy Bagley, JC, Laney and Mark Steikman on Sunday, July 17; and Jay Allan on Monday, July 18. Janey’s Coffeehouse, 6602 E. Cave Creek

Road, Cave Creek, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., various pricing, cavecreekazmusic.com

Oceans of Possibilities: Summer Reading Program 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

Chapman Brothers at The Hideaway Grill JULY 13 Enjoy live music with your drinks and listen to the Chapman Brothers play at The Hideaway Grill. The Hideaway, 6746 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., hideaway-usa.com

Morning Stretch at the Rocks JULY 13 Stretch 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, deserthills.org.

If You Read a Kid a Book JULY 13 Join Miss Heather every Monday at the Imagination Lab to hear sections of good 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

Music at the Movies JULY 14 Join the Desert Foothills Library for a celebration of music in movies and a discussion of significant soundtracks. Movies range from dramas and musicals to comedies. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, 2 to 3 p.m., 480488-2286, dfla.org

Puzzle Exchange JULY 15 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

J. David Sloan and the Cave Creek Legends at the Mountain View Pub JULY 17 Join J. David Sloan and his band the Cave Creek Legends at the Mountain View Pub. Join a local band and listen to traditional country with good friends

19 ••

and good company. The Mountain View Pub, 7033 E. Cave Creek Rd, Cave Creek, 2 p.m., free admission, 480575-7782, mountainviewpub.pub

Lego: Build Your Own Adventure: Unsupervised JULY 19 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

••

YOUTH

Youth TheFoothillsFocus.com

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For more Youth News visit thefoothillsfocus.com @TheFoothills.Focus

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Social worker enhances girls’ self-esteem BY SUMMER AGUIRRE Foothills Focus Staff Writer

irls in Cave Creek and Carefree have been learning how to become their best selves, thanks to the guidance of Jaime Smilovici. A passionate licensed master social worker, Smilovici leads AZ Girl Power, teaching second- to eighth-grade girls the fundamentals of self-empowerment. It launched in June with Empowered Girls, a series of four classes aiming to enhance the girls’ self-esteem and develop a more positive outlook on their everyday lives. “I see what girls have been going through as far as issues with friends, social media, depression, anxiety,” Smilovici said. “I just want them to learn these tools young and have tools in their toolbox to cope and problem solve, because they do face a lot of issues in our current world.” An Arizona native, Smilovici earned her bachelor’s in sociology at the UA and her master’s in social work at ASU. She has 20 years of experience working at schools in Phoenix, Glendale and Cave Creek, concentrating on kindergarten through eighthgrade students of diverse backgrounds. She is interested in boosting girls’ self-esteem because she sees herself in them. She was unassertive as a young girl. She said learning such social and emotion-

Licensed Master Social Worker, Jaime Smilovici lead Mia Rumore, Alyla Narayanappa, and Mila Gilbertson during empowerment an exercise/game. The girls gave a compliment to the person they threw the twine. (Cassandra Tomei/Contibutor)

al skills would have allowed her to stand up for herself in elementary and middle school. “I’m super pumped, my heart is full, I’m super inspired. This is just my absolute passion,” Smilovici said. “I only have teenage boys at home, so I didn’t raise daughters. But I feel like I can absolutely relate to them — just some of the things that I went through as a child and even in college.” The empowerment groups’ lessons highlight a different topic, such as assertiveness, mindfulness, coping skills, problem-solving strategies and friendship scenarios and dilemmas. After icebreakers, they are encouraged to participate in games, conversation prompts and anonymous questions. In a few short weeks, girls have shown social and emotional growth, Smilovici said. They have been exhibiting a willingness to try new things, talking more with one another and initiating playdates. Smilovici has also perLicensed Master Social Worker, Jaime Smilovici lead Mia Rumore, ceived a greater sense of Alyla Narayanappa, and Mila Gilbertson during empowerment an community among the exercise/game. The girls discribed the emotion presented on the card and a memory of the emotion. girls’ mothers.

Mia Rumore, 8, said she has become more confident, thanks to the classes. She enjoys the weekly program because Smilovici is “nice” and “fun.” “I’ve gotten amazing feedback from the parents and the girls,” Smilovici said. “They’re having so much fun while learning.” Her inbox has been full of thank-you messages from parents. They share the girls’ love of the group and their new friends. As parents, they understand how important it is for their daughters to learn self-esteem at a young age. “It’s been overwhelmingly awesome,” she said. Despite its youth, the program has caught the community’s attention. Parents, groups and organizations, including Girl Scout troops, girls sports teams and a dance company, have expressed an interest in the program. Smilovici has been asked to expand to other ages, as well. Per parent request, she is considering offering drop-in sessions for high school-age girls so they can have a safe space to talk about their lives. “I do want to think about that, because you can get into a lot of really more serious issues, some of the issues being grief and

death and families, and also there are a lot of issues going on with dating,” she said. She added she wants to concentrate on individual and group coping skills rather than therapy. Smilovici is working on reaching girls across the globe, partnering with Positive Network Alliance, a nonprofit dedicated to providing mentoring programs and support services for Arizona children facing challenges. Together, they will film a TV program for YouTube featuring Smilovici and two other girls as superheroes, sharing girl power messages and words of wisdom. As of now, she’s focusing on extending her empowerment groups to Phoenix and Scottsdale starting in August. She will be hosting workshops for girls second and third grades; fourth to sixth grades; and seventh and eighth grades. In addition, special Girl Scout troop workshops can be scheduled. A back-to-school group will be hosted by Muse Pilates, owned by Smilovici’s cousin, Nina Smith. A two-hour workshop for fourth to sixth graders, it will emphasize caring for their bodies and feeling good, highlighting health and nutrition. The girls will participate in a 15-minute Pilates session led by Smith before moving on to Smilovici’s social and emotional activities. They can discuss any back-to-school anxieties. “I think if they start early and practice early, they’re going to be in really good shape for when they have some challenges as adolescents or young adults,” Smilovici said. Girls empowerment groups are held at Mason Jar Boutique, 29455 N. Cave Creek Road. Moms receive 20% off instore merchandise during their daughters’ sessions. AZ Girl Power jaimesmilovici.com

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