The Foothills Focus 072022 Zone 2 by Times Media Group

••

Around the Bluhmin’ Town PAGE

ProMusica Auditions

TheFoothillsFocus.com

INSIDE

This Week

NEWS ................. 8

Veteran Mary Lou Spicer makes her mark

OPINION........... 14

Wildfire starters deserve more harsh sentences

BACK TO SCHOOL... 19

Imagine Schools strive for students to reach potential

OPINION.................... 10 FEATURES................. 17 BACK TO SCHOOL..... 19 CLASSIFIEDS............. 22 Zone 2

PAGE

Serving the communities of Cave Creek and Carefree

Cave Creek - Carefree Area Edition

Wednesday, July 20, 2022

IFL MVP hired as Cactus Shadows coach BY NOAH VELASCO Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

actus Shadows football is stepping into the spotlight with the recent addition of Christopher Dixon as head coach. Armed with an extensive resume as a player and coach, Dixon is a four-time Indoor Football league MVP and eight-time IFL champion with the Montana Outlaws and Sioux Falls Storm between 2005 and 2014. More importantly, his knowledge is key to Cactus Shadows’ success. “In his first interview with the committee, he was infectious with his passion for the game of football, his knowledge for the game of football and his passion for kids in helping them grow and improve,” said Drew Ammon, Cactus Shadows’ athletic director. “It was really infectious.” Upon his hiring, Dixon quickly famil-

Christopher Dixon takes on Cactus Shadows football as head coach. (Photo by Enrique Garcia/Contributor)

iarized himself with the student athletes, coaching staff and community. “They’re hungry to see growth,” Dixon said. “I think (Cactus Shadows) is ready to go into the next chapter of its football life. It’s time for Cactus Shadows to stop being in the shadows.” Football is in Dixon’s blood. He played at Contra Costa College in San Pablo, California, before transferring to Humboldt State in Arcata, California. After college, Dixon went undrafted. He then turned to arena football with the IFL. Inside arena football, he found his stride. He posted all-time league records in completion percentage (68.6%), passing yards (12,963) and passing touchdowns (323) among others. During his career, he collected four IFL

see COACH page 6

Carefree Water enhances conservation efforts BY ALLISON BROWN Foothills Focus Staff Writer

he Carefree Water Company is stepping up its water conservation efforts by asking customers to cut back and initiating a multistep, long-term plan to help ensure an adequate supply of water in an increasingly dry future. “Our customers have always been conser-

vation minded — we live in a desert,” said Greg Crossman, general manager of the Carefree Water Company. “But this drought has really exemplified that we need to dial our water conservation practices up a level, just to make sure that we’re using water wisely not only in Carefree, but throughout the Valley.” To conserve water, the Carefree Water Company is challenging all customers to cut

their water usage by a minimum of 10%. Crossman said one simple way to meet this goal is by monitoring irrigation timers. If the drip system is set to come on for 20 minutes, he said to reset it for 18 minutes. This one action will reduce outdoor water usage by 10% and plants will hardly tell the difference.

INDOOR/ OUTDOOR LIVING A TREND THAT’S NEVER OUT OF STYLE

4454 East Thomas Road • Phoenix, AZ 85018 602.508.0800 liwindow.com Mon-Thurs 8:30-5p.m. | Fri 8:30-4p.m. | Sat 9-2p.m. | ROC#179513

see WATER page 4

•• 2

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

COMPLETE PLUMBING SOLUTIONS BOOK ONLINE TODAY!

Water Heaters Installation • • • •

Gas Electric Tankless Package Pricing

Starting as low as $899!

Repairs

Services

• Supply Lines • Elements • Gas Valve Replacement • Thermostats • Pan Re-Piping

• • • •

Expansion Tank Recirculation Pump Anode Rod Water Heater Flush

24/7

Emergency Service

COMPLETE PLUMBING SOLUTIONS Appliances • Camera Inspection Service • Drain Cleans • Emergencies Faucets & Sinks • Garbage Disposals • Gas Lines • Hose Bibb Replacements Remodels • Showers & Bath Tubs • Toilets & Sewer Lines • Water Heaters Water Pressure Reducing Valves • Water Treatment • Commercial

Tamra & Doug Wyman

5 Star Ratings

Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

623.551.6688 • www.wyman-services.com

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

INDOOR/ OUTDOOR LIVING A TREND THAT’S NEVER OUT OF STYLE 4454 East Thomas Road Phoenix, AZ 85018

602.508.0800 liwindow.com

Mon-Thurs 8:30-5p.m. | Fri 8:30-4p.m. | Sat 9-2p.m. | ROC#179513

••

•• 4

NEWS

An edition of the East Valley Tribune The Foothills Focus is published every Wednesday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout the North Valley. To find out where you can pick up a copy of The Foothills Focus, please visit www.thefoothillsfocus.com CONTACT INFORMATION Main number: 623-465-5808 | Fax: 623-465-1363 Circulation: 480-898-5641 Publisher: Steve T. Strickbine Vice President: Michael Hiatt 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

Proud member of :

The Foothills Focus is distributed by AZ Integrated Media, a circulation service company owned by Times Media Group. The public is permitted one copy per reader. For further information regarding the circulation of this publication or others in the Times Media Group family of publications, please contact AZ Integrated Media at circ@azintegratedmedia.com or 480-898-5641. For circulation services please contact Aaron Kolodny at aaron@azintegratedmedia.com

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

WATER from page 1

Crossman added that as much as 70% of water usage comes from irrigation systems and outdoor use, which is why he is encouraging customers to focus on cutting back on that aspect of water usage. There are other quick and easy things people can do to help conserve water. Crossman said these are really “common sense” things like turning the water off when brushing teeth and making sure the washing machine or dishwasher is full before running it. People can also go so far as to get water-efficient appliances. Crossman said the Carefree Water Company has two primary water sources: an allocation of CAP water, which comes from the Colorado River, and the groundwater aquifer in Carefree. According to Crossman, the town’s aquifer has a little over 17,000-acre-feet of water stored in it, and Carefree uses about 1,000-acre-feet per year. Crossman emphasized it is never expected to have to rely solely on the aquifer, but there is enough there to support the town for about 17 years. The more severe problem is that the drought has taken a massive toll on the Colorado River, and will continue to do so. Preparations have to be made for the eventuality that Colorado River water deliveries get cut back. However, Crossman said local and state officials are

aware of this and have done some good planning. The Arizona Water Banking Authority has been storing water to help mitigate some of the pull of groundwater when Colorado River supplies are cut. “Is there a potential for cutbacks in the future? Yes. Are there things in place that would help mitigate that? Yes,” Crossman said. “So that’s what we’re all looking at is how much cutbacks are we going to have to do in the future and in what ways can we make sure that we keep our customers in water. And the more we save now, the longer the supplies last.” The Carefree Water Company doesn’t just want to rely on others to do the long-term planning, though. Carefree Town Council, which also serve as the board of directors of the Carefree Water Company, implemented an integrated, multistep plan to help assure an adequate supply of water for all of the town’s water customers. This longterm effort could take as long as 20-plus years to complete, but it has the potential to produce a viable and cost-effective source of water in a dryer future. The plan has two major parts: integrating all water accounts into a single system and providing adequate sources of water supply. The first component is something that has been in the works since 2017. All remaining Carefree residents, specifically those in the south and west portions

of town, are scheduled to be under the Carefree Water Company by the end of 2022. The second component will take several years to come to fruition. Carefree draws its water supply from CAP, which comes from the Colorado River, and the town’s aquifer. Grossman said the goal is to create a partnership with the Salt River Project (SRP), which draws its water from the Salt and Verde Rivers, to access a third water supply. According to Grossman, SRP water has typically been unavailable to Carefree, but a project increasing the size of Bartlett Dam could change that. “This long-term planning that we’re doing that we’ve talked about with our board recently is to look at how we can expand our water portfolio, and maybe take a look at some resources here locally,” Grossman explained. “Right now, SRP and Bureau of Reclamation are looking at the potential of doing dam modifications on the Verde River at Bartlett dam, which could generate a water supply. We’re hoping to partner with them to really start looking at the feasibility of doing that. That just gives us another source of renewable water supplies that we hope could pan out in the future.” The Carefree Water Company will formalize some of these planning arrangements at upcoming meetings. For more information, visit carefreewaterco.com.

run from $150 to $1,000 annually and include free admissions, special invitations to exhibits and guest passes. “Our Quail, Bobcat and Jackrabbit memberships offer everything needed to become involved in and to support this incredible one-of-a-kind western, historical and mining museum,” she said. Private donations are welcome. “Even though the museum is closed briefly through September, staff and volunteers are busy preparing for the museum’s opening on Oct. 1 and our donors are the ones who make the exhibits and unique events such membership attractions,” Johnson added. “We count on the many wonderful in-

dividuals and businesses who help keep this museum exciting, changing and attractive to residents and visitors alike.” Donors and prospective members can get more information at cavecreekmuseum.org/membership or by calling 480488-2764. The 51-year-old museum’s mission is to preserve the artifacts of the prehistory, history, culture and legacy of the Cave Creek Mining District and the Cave Creek/Carefree foothills area through education, research, and interpretive exhibits. The Cave Creek Museum is located at 6140 E. Skyline Drive in Cave Creek. It’s open October through May.

Cave Creek Museum offers new memberships BY FOOTHILLS FOCUS STAFF

he Cave Creek Museum has created a number of membership levels and opportunities for individuals and businesses. According to executive director Evelyn Johnson, the museum offers memberships including $200, $500 and $1,000 per year with a variety of benefits ranging from free admissions and in-museum discounts to free guest passes, one’s name on a donor’s wall and invitations to special events, among others. The memberships are named Agave, Sage, Cholla, Saguaro and Ocotillo. Johnson said business memberships

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

THERE’S NO SUBSTITUTE FOR INTEGRITY & A JOB WELL DONE!

That’s Why You’re Going To Love Us!

We Are Your Resident Experts

Family owned company

Not only are we experts in plumbing and air conditioning, we are your neighbors. As residents of North Phoenix, we bring over 31 years of experience with 16 years in business and a neighborly approach to service.

Testimonials

We recognize that nobody likes to have air-conditioning/heating or plumbing problems, but when you do, you have a choice. When you choose West Coast Plumbing and Air, you are choosing the company that looks out for its neighbors and one that comes with a 100% money back guarantee.

Call Us! We keep our appointments We fix it right the first time We offer a 100% money back guarantee We work weekends with no extra weekend charges We offer Valley Wide Service

Summer is Here!

250

“Thank you for getting our air working for us! It was an urgent matter, and they had someone at our house within 2 hours of my phone call.” - Anthem Resident

“The technician was awesome he was fast, professional and polite. Hopefully I won’t have to call anyone anytime soon but, if I had to West Coast Plumbing & Air would be my first choice.” - North Phoenix Resident

OFF A NEW TRANE UNIT INSTALL

“Great service! Got the job done right, and for the right price.” - Glendale Resident

16 Years in Business

*Cannot be combined with any other offers. Expires July 31,2022.

623.582.1117 BESTOF

2022

A rating +

VALLEY WIDE SERVICE ROC #221431 #274551

We are dual licensed to service both residential and commercial

Like Our Facebook Page facebook.com/westcoastplumbingandair

••

NEWS

•• 6

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

COACH from page 1

Offensive Player of the Year, four FirstTeam All-IF and three United Bowl MVP prizes, and a 2015 IFL Hall of Fame induction. He’s just as passionate about coaching. He started at Shepherd High School in Shepherd, Montana, where he was instrumental in building a winning foundation with the football team. Under Dixon’s management, the team won its first home playoff game in 15 years and was named co-conference champions. He moved to Scottsdale, Arizona, in 2021 to accept a job on the Arizona Rattlers staff. He began in the 2022-2023 season serving as the quarterback and running back coach for the Rattlers, one of the IFL’s most prolific offenses. Dixon said he brings a lot of energy and direction to Cactus Shadows. Outdoor high school football and the IFL are similar in that they play quickly in small spaces. “I think a lot of great athletes get an opportunity in the NFL from the indoor

Dixon’s goals for the Cactus Shadows football program go beyond just making the state championship and said, “at the end of the day, it’s empowering our young men and our young women to be leaders on our campus, and then leaders in our community.” (Photo by Enrique Garcia/contributor) football game because they get to play in a unique way that’s learned in a football game that you just don’t get when you just play outdoor football,” Dixon said. Ammon praised Dixon’s experience and said he is looking forward to the 2022-2023 season. “He has seen football from so many

different perspectives and so many different avenues,” Ammon said. “He can offer really nice insights for our student athletes — and not even our student athletes who are playing football, but our student athletes who do other sports as well.” In this next chapter, Ammon’s goal for

the team is to create “competitors in the community.” “I want our athletes to impact our school culture for positive,” Ammon said. “I can tell you I want to make the playoffs. I can tell you I want to make the state championship and all that stuff, but really at the end of the day, it’s empowering our young men and our young women to be leaders on our campus, and then leaders in our community. “So, I don’t want to put any win-loss expectations out there. I just want us to compete. I want us to be competitors on the field and really competitors in our community.” Similar to Ammon, one of Dixon’s goals for the football program is to build the culture at the school. “We want to grow the culture around the school, where we’re not just in an educational school, but an athletic school too,” Dixon said. “We need to bring all that into the forefront and make sure our kids are excited, happy and ready, but be the best people they can be.”

NORTH VALLEY PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

General Practice Law Firm for all your legal needs!

• • • •

Free personal injury case evaluations An attorney will supervise your case from start to finish No fees unless we collect on your behalf History of successfully negotiating down medical costs -increasing the money in your pocket. 42104 N. Venture Drive, Suite A 118, Anthem, AZ 85086 • All vehicle accidents/wrongful death

623-551-9366 CarrollLawFirm.com

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

Largest Flooring Sale

EVER! %

Call NOW! 623-244-8260

75FF O

Or Go Online www.healthyhomeﬂooring.co

ALL NEW FLOORING* 2 weeks only or until supplies last.

60 months 0% Financing* Vinyl Plank Laminate Wood Tile Carpet

COUPON

$500

OFF OFF

Pet Proof Flooring Expires September 1st, 2022

COUPON

$750

OFF OFF

Bundle Savings Discount

When you purchase both carpet & any hard surface together Expires September 1st, 2022

FREE Air Duct Cleaning* Shop At Home Next Day Installation

Lifetime Labor Warranty Exclusive customer installation tracking portal

Dustless Tile Removal* Free Home Disinfectant*

5 Stars

Reviews

ROC328401 Must present coupon or ad at the time of initial appointment. Offers are first appointment incentives only and only good if both decision-makers are present. Cannot combine offers. Dustless tile removal does not actually mean no dust, rather a lot less dust and still a construction site and will need professional cleaning. $9 a day based on 36-month financing including basic installation and product with 1000sf or less, and room size 12x15. Rooms greater in size or using upgraded flooring will add additional monthly costs. Does not include stairs or rip up. Financing is based on approved credit. $5,500 min purchase for free air duct cleaning. Free home disinfectant service makes no claims to kill COVID-19 or prevent it. *

••

NEWS

•• 8

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

Veteran Mary Lou Spicer makes her mark The Foothills Focus, in partnership with the Anthem Veterans Memo rial, will honor a local veter an each month. This is th e story of Petty Officer 1st Class Mary Lou Spice r, a machinery repairman.

BY ELIZABETH TURNER Anthem Veterans Memorial

ntil 2010, women in the Navy were not permitted to serve on submarines. They could, however, work on them in port. Water has been part of Mary Lou Spicer’s soul, as she grew up in northern Wisconsin, just off Lake Superior. Her parents owned a small local restaurant where she took orders and delivered food on roller skates. But that never stopped her from loving the beauty of the lake and all it offered. She saw the vast lake as she walked to school, played in the chilly snow drifts formed from winter storms, and rowed in Dragon Boat races. When she looked at the lake, she imagined what was on the other side of it. The lake became her inspiration. Unlike most young adults who enter the service sometime after high school or college, Mary Lou Spicer enlisted at age 35. “I had worked in a linen department of a hospital, collecting dirty linen and stocking them after they were cleaned,” Spicer said. “I worked in a nursing home kitchen. I had two former husbands who always wanted something and two children to support. I knew I had to get out of deadend jobs and do something with my life, something most women would not have done at that time in their lives.” She spoke with friends about their small-town existence and one of them said, “Gosh, it’s too bad you are too old to join the military.” “That was the challenge I needed,”

she recalled. “So, I went to Duluth to visit the recruiters. I started out with the Marines, but they said I was too old. Then I went to the Air Force office, but the recruiter wasn’t there that day. So, I went to the Navy recruiting officer. I walked in his office with early gray hair; fit, but definitely older than anyone he had seen walk into that office. We talked and when the recruiter realized I had not yet turned 35, their cutoff age, I was good to join them. It was meant to be that I left life in a small town next to Lake Superior for a career in the Navy. The water called me.”

Age doesn’t matter Like all prospective enlisted soldiers, Mary Lou took the standardized Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery Test (ASVAB), that reveals strengths in science, math and language. She scored well in machinery. She had no formal training, but this was appealing to the Navy as it could train her as it needed. Even with high test scores and eagerness to join the Navy, her recruiter tried to talk her out of the military. “I was old — or so they thought. “Even my mother told me she couldn’t believe I was going into the Navy because I didn’t take well to orders,” she said. “I figured at that time, what other job gives me a uniform, pay and opportunities outside that town. By the time I got to boot camp, I was 36. I liked the discipline and the routine and was made master of arms. I ensured everyone followed the rules. I like rules, I like to know what to expect, and rules give me that. I liked learning things I didn’t know how to do. At first glance, the others saw me as if I were their mother. However, over time, we all shared a mutual respect and common goal.” Spicer attended A-School for machinery repair and then was transferred to a submarine base in Connecticut, where she made and repaired parts for submarines. “There weren’t many women in the machine shop, but I was older and wis-

er and didn’t mind working around men,” she said. “I took the younger women under my wing and helped guide them in dealing with men who spoke down, teased them about breaking a nail or told them to make and bring their coffee.” During her career, she went up and down the East Coast to work in machine shops near submarines or on Navy ships in port. “I also worked on submarines after they limped back to port with some issue that needed fixing,” she said. “Now, computers generate these parts. But back then, we were charged with creating whatever parts were needed to solve the problem. Then, we went on the submarine to install the parts we made. We didn’t outsource parts or have a catalog of fixes, we made them. To ensure a chain of accountability, every part we made had a signature of every part maker and inspector. Everyone was held accountable; that’s important in any job.” Working on nuclear submarines was challenging and interesting to Spicer; it wasn’t easy to tool and install tiny parts on a submarine in protective gear, gloves and a filtered air mask. “You can’t risk getting a glove torn on a part,” she said. “We wore dosimeters that read radioactive isotopes and, fortunately, I was never exposed. I remember thinking, ‘This is the only place I would ever be able to do this.’”

Joyful job It is easy to see the joy in Spicer’s eyes as she speaks about her Navy career. “I loved everything about my job. I especially loved working on the fast-attack subs,” she said. “They were tiny, and you could probably fit one of those inside a Trident, but they were challenging. There was one narrow passageway down the center of the sub. The aisle was so small that when I worked in the reactor compartment, someone had to stand in the aisle to ensure no one stepped on my air supply.”

Mary Lou Spicer Spicer became a company commander and instilled the lessons of following orders, keeping fit and learning how to become good naval men and women. “I ensured their barracks were squared away, the men and women stayed on their respective floors at night and they worked their hardest in training exercises,” she said. Age meant nothing to Mary Lou. “I ran right next to them; I did pushups with them. What they did, I did. I remember this one kid, barely able to keep up, who looked at his buddy and said, ‘She is old enough to be my grandma. I can’t believe she is running with me.’ I reminded him that if he had spent less time on video games, he wouldn’t have been so tired.” She even inspired others. “I learned one young lady was from my hometown,” she said. “I never treated her any differently and worked her as hard as the next. After she graduated boot camp, her mother came up to me and thanked me. I guess she had been sent to boarding school where they tried to get her to straighten up, but nothing worked. Her mother said because I believed in her and wouldn’t allow her to fail, she learned how to succeed. I guess I did make a difference.” Eventually, she was asked to be a re-

see VETERAN page 9

NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

VETERAN from page 8

cruiter. “I told them I looked too old to talk to high school kids about joining the Navy as I looked like their mother or, worse, their grandmother,” she said. “I tried, but after a few months, the Navy agreed and I took a transfer down to Panama Beach, Florida. The group in Florida were all senior divers with a lot of equipment. I worked in supply and made sure they always had what they needed and that everything worked as it was supposed to work. It was rewarding knowing they came up because I had ensured everything was squared up for them.” Keeping busy Spicer always kept busy, working part-time jobs while she was off duty. She met her husband when she was employed by a laundry. He came in one night “yelling” that his shirts didn’t meet his expectations. “I told him to bring them to me and I would make sure they were right,” she said. “I guess they were as we married.” The two traveled. He was a rigger and worked in shipyards, which were often placed near bases. So, he transferred right along with her. “It came in handy when I needed a

Mary Lou Spicer, right, says she enjoyed the discipline and routine of boot camp as well as taking the younger women under her wing. rigger on a ship where I worked,” she said. “He was a good one. If there wasn’t a shipyard near where I worked, he took security jobs. “I thought about re-enlisting, but my husband and I had plans to tour the country on our motorcycles. After I retired, we bought land and a house in Texas. Sadly, he died not too long after that, just before his 62nd birthday.” While Spicer was in the Navy, her children lived with their father or her parents. During the summer, they would stay with her. “I couldn’t take them to submarines,

but I’d take them on Navy ships in port,” she said. “It wasn’t an easy life for them as I moved a lot and lived in an RV, but we made it work.” Spicer’s oldest son, Sean Farrell, joined the Navy after high school and served four years, deploying during

Desert Storm. He and his wife and two daughters live in Richmond, Virginia, where he works at an Army base. Her youngest child, Clifford Peterson Jr., and his wife are special needs nurses. They and their six children live in Anthem, as does Spicer. “I have time to enjoy life as a mother and grandmother now and get to share stories about how grandmother made parts for submarines,” she said. “I hope to teach them the lessons I learned in life, and I know they will grow up to be great adults.” In 2010, Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates lifted the ban for women to serve on submarines. One year later, the first female officers began reporting to Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines. Three years later, the plan to incorporate enlisted women was announced. There are more than 200 enlisted female sailors serving as part of eight crews. By 2030, the Navy plans to have 33 submarine crews with female officers. Fourteen crews will have female enlisted sailors. All classes of submarines will be integrated with female officers.

Sunset Point Rest Area staying open this summer BY FOOTHILLS FOCUS STAFF

fter announcing that Sunset Point Rest Area would close to the general public until spring, the Arizona Department of Transportation decided to keep it open through Labor Day. The rest area is approximately 10 miles south of Cordes Junction. The Sunset Point Rest Area rehabilitation project began July 11. The project team was able to phase the work to not impact the traveling public until after

the busy summer season, with the rest area closing to noncommercial traffic after Labor Day. The $7.5 million renovation project, located at milepost 252, will rehabilitate and upgrade the facility’s water and septic systems, ramadas, restrooms and vending buildings and will also make the rest area more accessible for persons with disabilities. For more information, visit the project webpage: azdot.gov/Sunset-Point-Rehabilitation.

NIGHT

DBACKS.COM/STARWARS

••

•• 10

OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

Opinion TheFoothillsFocus.com

@TheFoothills.Focus

For more opinions visit thefoothillsfocus.com /TheFoothillsFocus

AROUND THE BLUHMIN’ TOWN

Boredom doesn’t have to be unfulfilling BY JUDY BLUHM Foothills Focus Columnist

here are three phrases that let us know that summer is officially here: “There’s nothing to do,” “I’m bored,” and, “It’s too hot to do anything.” Yes, the children are home from school. After days crammed with structure, activities, schedules and a vast array of projects, the kids are trying to figure out ways to fill the void before their summer vacation ends. My grandkids like to get into as much mischief as possible. I think they aren’t alone.

On the topic of boredom, a group of Johns Hopkins researchers claim boredom is a major problem for people of all ages. It is the guiding force behind any number of “problem” behaviors in children, the cause of midlife crises in adults and depression in the elderly. Many people don’t realize their routines lack challenge, and they end up being “terminally” unfulfilled. Boredom sets in gradually, like a slow-moving storm. Evidently, this leads to all manner of “unhealthy behaviors,” from overeating to doing “crazy things” just for the heck of it.

One of my colleagues dyed her brown hair bright red (looks fabulous) and my neighbor purchased a Corvette (he regrets it), both claiming “boredom” was the reason. A bored housewife in China spent years falsifying Russian history on Wikipedia in one of the largest hoaxes on the open-source platform. She created an entire fictitious world millions believed till the scam was exposed last month. I guess we could say boredom could end up costing big bucks, substantially changing our looks or altering historical facts.

Boredom can lead to creativity. Many fantastic musicians were lonely as children, with nothing more than an instrument to keep them company. The great B.B. King was left home alone during

see BLUHM page 15

$225 $30.00 $40.00 $50.00 $60.00 $100.00 $140.00

$89

27¢

OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

Will ‘Slow Joe’ ever face a ‘full-court press’

Discount up to 30% with Drive Safe & Save !* ™

BY J.D. HAYWORTH Foothills Focus Columnist

he romance between “The Gray Lady” and the gray-headed occupant at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue appears headed for the rocks. It was just one of those things. Actually, what The New York Times and Joe Biden had was more of a “courtship of convenience.” The newspaper — long in need of amending its slogan “All the news that’s fit to print,” to something more accurate, such as “All the news that fits our agenda” — discovered from its sources in Hollywood, on Wall Street and inside the Obama compound in the exclusive northwest Washington neighborhood of Kalorama there was a “clamor” for Joe Biden’s presidential candidacy. That’s at least as the Democrat “Demolition Derby” known as the 2020 primary campaign continued. Consequently, the reporters and editorialists at the Times transmogrified into press agents for the Biden presidential operation — not that such a transition was difficult. And The New York Times had plenty of company. Were it possible, much of the fourth estate would have to plead the Fifth when queried about the First Amendment. The alphabet networks, their “cable cousins,” and especially their Silicon Valley-based “shirttail relatives” in social media not only remained remarkably incurious about revelations of possible wrongdoing by Team Biden and “Big Joey’s” family, internet platforms sought to censor press outlets that actually committed “acts of journalism.” Consider the “Tale of Two ‘Posts.’” The Washington Post, credited with bringing down the Nixon presidency, has now become a “vanity possession” of Jeff Bezos, the mega-billionaire who collected his fortune by founding Amazon,

and later the space exploration company Blue Origin. Blue Origin won’t have far to go when it searches for a black hole — just look to the WaPo newsroom. That must be where any investigative report on possible unethical or criminal Biden activity must have disappeared. And to think, Bezos and his bunch concocted this subheadline on the eve of Donald Trump’s inauguration, and still affixed to the WaPo masthead: “Democracy dies in Darkness.” Hey, Jeff, you or anybody at your newspaper have a light? Meantime, The New York Post brought considerable light to very troubling allegations against the Democratic nominee and those around him. Disturbing reports that Joe Biden’s son, Hunter, became a gatherer of millions abroad in exchange for access to his powerful Pop were uncovered by the newspaper founded by Alexander Hamilton. But today’s leftist elites prefer Hamilton “reimagined” as part of a “cast of color” appearing on the Broadway stage and belittle the newspaper he founded because it is now owned by News Corp., the organization that also owns Fox News.

see HAYWORTH page 15

Justin Simons, Agent 41722 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway, 3655 W Anthem Way #110 Anthem, AZ 85086 Anthem, AZ 85086 (Next to Barro’s Pizza)

623-551-3700 Business: Business: 623-551-3700 justin.simons.j663@statefam.com justin.simons.j663@statefarm.com I’m inviting you to make our roads safer and get rewarded for doing so. Are you in? Contact me today to get started.

*Some customers could see a discount up to 50%. Discount names, percentages, availability and eligibility may vary by state and coverage selected. Enrollment, terms and conditions apply. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company Bloomington, IL State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas Richardson, TX 1901979

••

•• 12

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

••

•• 14

OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

Wildfire starters deserve more harsh sentences BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Foothills Focus Columnist

o the annals of stupid but lucky criminals, let us inscribe the name Matthew Riser, age 57 — and not the brightest star in the sky. Riser was pulled over by Coconino County Sheriff’s deputies on June 12 near the forest outside Flagstaff. Riser’s white pickup truck matched the description of a vehicle spotted fleeing the scene of the Pipeline Fire, which had sparked up that morning. Riser, nothing if not honest, admitted to deputies he’d camped overnight in the forest and relieved himself in the woods. He told the cops he had overlooked the numerous “no campfires” signs in the area and “had burned his (toilet) paper at noon yesterday and didn’t think it would smolder all night.” One can only imagine Riser’s surprise when he woke up to what arrest documents described as quite a scene: a “200

foot by 200 foot fire; everything was on fire including the pine trees.” The Pipeline Fire would consume nearly 27,000 acres of Arizona forest land over the next two weeks. More than 2,000 families were forced to evacuate. Gov. Doug Ducey declared a state of emergency in Coconino County, while 740 fire crews from across the country fought the blaze along with hundreds of hotshots, fire vehicles, bulldozers and air tankers. One week in, the cost of the Pipeline Fire was estimated at $11 million and rising. If Riser seems a tad unlucky thus far, he got a few breaks soon enough. Like at charging time, when the U.S. attorney’s office pressed forward with only three counts, all misdemeanors: use of prohibited fire, using federal lands as a residence, and possession of marijuana. The weed charge, a Class A misdemeanor under federal law, was later dropped. The other charges were Class

HILLCREST B A P T I S T

C H U R C H

Grow With Us!

SUNDAYS AT 10:30AM ✔ Practical Bible message ✔ Inspiring music

✔ Family atmosphere

HILLCREST BAPTIST CHURCH (Meets inside Ridgeline Academy)

602.350.0968

www.hillcrestbaptistaz.org

B misdemeanors. Riser struck a plea deal on July 13: he pleaded guilty to the fire-starting charge and in return he got one year of probation and a special assessment of $10. Riser’s fine was waived because Judge Camille Bibles found he “does not have the ability to pay a fine.” And out of court and into infamy Mathew Riser walked. The whole episode calls to mind the Rodeo-Chediski Fire, which burned more than 460,000 acres back in 2002. That blaze, the second worst in Arizona history, was ignited by two idiots named Leonard Gregg and Valinda Jo Elliott. Gregg, a part-time wildland firefighter, set the Rodeo Fire on purpose because he needed the wages he’d earn fighting it. Elliott, riding a quad on the White Mountain Apache reservation, broke down and got lost in the woods. On her third day wandering, she spotted a news helicopter. The signal fire Elliott started to get the chopper pilot’s attention became the Chediski Fire. Gregg faced criminal prosecution for arson. He ended up serving nine years of a 10-year prison sentence. It’s safe to assume he’s still working on the $27.9 million restitution order by the court. Elliott escaped criminal prosecution because, like Riser, she didn’t intend to cause all that damage. Even so, the

White Mountain Apache Tribe pursued Elliott in federal court for a decade. Eventually, the Tribe’s court found Elliott owed $57 million in restitution, of which she has surely never paid a thin dime. Famously, Arizona has a “stupid motorist law” that forces morons who drive across flooded roads to pay the cost of their own rescue. I’d like to propose Matthew’s Law to hold stupid firestarters accountable for their havoc. I get Riser didn’t mean to burn down the forest, but come on. Should people who start forest fires be made to face serious consequences? Does a bear — and sometimes an idiot — s--- in the woods?

OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

BLUHM from page 10

summer months, so he picked up his uncle’s guitar at 7 years old and started “strumming to fight off boredom.” The rest is history. Artists, inventors, writers and musicians often mastered their talents when faced with the prospect of having “nothing much to do.” Perhaps our kids need a few musical instruments lying around instead of video games. I have a friend whose husband of thirty-five years left her because he said he felt his life was getting “dull, routine and boring.” OK, so what’s that got to do with your wife? Isn’t boredom a personal problem? Psychologists claim adult boredom is a “mental state of mind” usually stemming from lack of purpose, not

HAYWORTH from page 11

And, since the revelations were reported in October 2020, three weeks before the election, it was time for the “Tech Titans” to do their thing — censor The New York Post and suppress access to it, giving the publication the same treatment as our 45th president. So now there’s a 46th president, making bad decisions that could “deep six” our nation. The media mob is reassessing its reportage, with an open southern border, closed domestic energy sources, runaway inflation and military leadership so “woke” it sleepwalks past the clear and present danger presented by China. Don’t misunderstand, this is not some sober self-reflection. Instead, it is predicated upon the partisan prejudices of the media kingpins. So, if a collective decision is made that “Joe must go,” it will be attributed to his senility instead of his deep dishonesty

lack of excitement. We can find plenty of boredom-busting things to do this summer. There are books to read, movies to watch, guitars to strum, volunteer jobs available, fences to paint, pets to pamper, fish to catch and new things to learn. It just takes a little effort to fight the “blahs.” With a little creativity, a challenge and something new to learn, kids and adults can conquer boredom and the summer doldrums. The good news for kids is school starts soon. We adults better deal with any “blahs” or face serious consequences. But if you ever see me driving around town in a Corvette with red hair, you will know I need help. Judy Bluhm is a writer and a local Realtor. Have a story or a comment? Email Judy at judy@judybluhm.com

and unwillingness “to take care that the laws be faithfully executed,” as our Constitution mandates. And look for his kid to also get the “kid glove treatment,” emphasizing Hunter’s addictions and salacious escapades as opposed to his suspected criminal behavior, seeking multimillion-dollar payoffs from Ukraine and China. Like his dad, he’ll be portrayed as a victim instead of a perpetrator. And look for The New York Times to make time with a certain Californian. No, not Kamala Harris — and certainly not Nancy Pelosi. Gov. Gavin Newsom. If he does for the USA what he’s done to the former Golden State, our goose is cooked — or, perhaps, prepared as Peking Duck. When “The Gray Lady” and the “Smiling Cobra” step out on the floor, they’ll dance to a Chinese beat, unless the midterm elections provide the promise of a better arrangement in 2024.

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.

Carpet • Tile • Grout • Upholstery • Air Duct Cleaning • Commercial & Residential Cleaning

BUSY LIFE?

Call Today! Clean Today! Prices Include: Truck Mounted Units • Pretreat Vacuum • Optical Brightener • General Soil Removal Also Available: Carpet Stretching • Carpet Repair

ANY 3 ROOMS

Men tion ew Wes t Valley Vi e for an Exclusiv Of fer!

Reg. $129.00

Up to 450 sq. ft. total

ANY 5 ROOMS

Reg. $169.99

Up to 750 sq. ft. total

We only have one care. It’s Your Satisfaction. VALLEYWIDE SERVICE • 602-550-7732 PNPOneCareCleaning.com • pnponecarecleaningtoday@protonmail.com

••

•• 16

OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

READER’S VIEWPOINTS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Experience, experience, experience Editor: In a previous letter to the editor, I noted the importance of experience in selecting the candidates to vote for in our Carefree mayoral and council election. That is why I have decided to vote for the current incumbents: John Crane, Vince D’Aliesio, Tony Geiger, Stephen Hatcher, Michael Johnson and Cheryl Kroyer. As you know there is one more councilmember position we are voting for in this election. In line with my feeling experience is the main factor that should drive my vote, I have decided to vote for Sheila Amoroso. I believe that she has the experience required to do an excellent job as a councilmember. This begins with the experience she gained in her career with over 30 years investing in public infrastructure projects. She has also shown great interest in the welfare of our town and thereby gained valuable experience by being a member of the Carefree Public Safety Advisory Committee. Let’s vote for the candidates who have the most experience because there are some very complex and potentially expensive issues that will have to be addressed by the incoming mayor and council. Mike Wold Carefree

Try something different Editor: If this is what “experience” gets us, maybe we should try something different. The political ads are impossible to miss. John Crane and his cronies have taken a huge number of ads, posters and newspaper “editorials” all touting “experience.” Particularly unprecedented for a small town such as ours. But why? And what has that experience gotten us? A water tank that will eventually cost the citizens of Carefree $32 million but

was never voted on and was never fully disclosed until a resident of Sagebrush Lane in the Boulders saw a surveyor wandering around the open space behind his house and learned what would eventually become the site of the tank. Why was this kept secret for so long? The use of eminent domain to seize the property belonging to the Boulders and begin the construction of the tank before the legal issues were fully settled. Successfully overturning the term limits that were previously voted in by Carefree residents. Question: Why is it so important to have a continuously rotating insider group of unpaid officials use all legal methods to remain in power indefinitely? What is their hidden long-range agenda? What is their undisclosed self-interest? Giving the go-ahead to Hampton Inn, rather than a “boutique” hotel that was promised and would have been far more appropriate. Is this what “experience” gets us? If you think these examples represent enlightened and unselfish “experience,” go ahead and vote for this insider group. But if you think that this all seems a little fishy for a small town such as ours and question what might be behind this unprecedented media blitz, consider voting for the alternative. It is not too late to take back Carefree from the secretive and elite few. If we don’t, we might wake up to find our peaceful and quaint Carefree utterly and permanently transformed to just another strip mall at the end of the road. I recommend we vote for integrity, transparency and trust. Cast your ballot for Peter Sample for mayor and Sven Maric, Kathlina Lai and Duke Vukotic for town council. Also, yes on propositions 472 and 473, and no on 474. Dr. Robert Binder

John Crane’s debate dishonesty Editor: I recently read an article written by

my opponent, John Crane, about the cancellation of a debate that he and I were slated to have on June 30. In his article, Crane intentionally makes false statements about this debate and it is important that the residents of Carefree understand what really happened. I contacted John about having a debate on May 31 and told him it would be beneficial for the people of Carefree. I told him the debate needed to happen in the month of June, because ballots are mailed the first week of July. John stated that he was out of town for most of the month of June, but would be willing and available to debate after June 29, so I booked the Desert Foothills Library for June 30 and waited to hear from John’s representative regarding moderator selection and further requests. John’s representative contacted me on June 23 and informed me John did not agree on the date, time or location of this debate. His representative also stated John insisted on selecting the question topics for the debate, as well as having the questions supplied to him two weeks in advance. Receiving debate questions in advance of a debate is a nonstarter, and John knows this. John also would not agree to have the debate broadcast on Zoom for the benefit of residents that were unwilling or unable to attend in person, and refused to allow debate attendees to submit questions to be asked through the moderator. I have emails documenting all of this. A man who has spent over 10 years on the Carefree Town Council should be able to show up to a debate at our town library, debate his opponent and answer questions from Carefree residents. It was clear John Crane had no intention of doing any of these things, which is why the debate did not happen. Peter Sample

New leadership needed Editor: After the last council meeting, it is evident new leadership is needed. At the Carefree Town Council meeting on July 5, those attending learned our general plan expired May 1, 2022. Arizona Revised Statute 9-461.06 defines what is needed in general plans for townships and cities. Every 10 years, the general plan will be updated. The current general plan should have been readopted or a revised general plan adopted prior to May 1, then put to a voter ratification/approval in this August’s election. This Carefree Town Council did neither. The excuse given for not adhering to Arizona Revised Statute 9-461.06 requirements? COVID! This council had Zoom meetings on everything. Why not the general plan readoption/revision? I was asked by Councilman Tony Geiger on April 8, 2021, if I would be interested in applying for a citizen committee on revising the general plan. If he was aware of the general plan needing to be revised, I do believe the rest of the council, including Vice Mayor Crane, was aware, and for sure the mayor and town administrator. Yet nothing was done, including the forming of a committee, to extend or revise the current general plan. In my opinion, this is malfeasance of office. Why didn’t anyone speak up? The economic development director could hold meetings starting in January 2021 with citizens who live near the “resort” site at Tom Darlington and Carefree Highway, and his hand-picked TAC (technical advisory committee) group to advise on town center redevelopment (as identified in Resolution 2020-11). The economic development plan flourished during COVID-19, yet the general plan was ignored and left to expire. The town of Carefree needs a change in the council and mayor. Peter Sample is the only competent choice for mayor, in my opinion John Mattes Carefree

••

FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

Features TheFoothillsFocus.com

@TheFoothills.Focus

For more features visit thefoothillsfocus.com

/TheFoothillsFocus

ProMusica chorale, orchestra hosting auditions BY MATTHEW ELITZ Foothills Focus Staff Writer

roMusica Arizona Chorale and Orchestra is hosting auditions for singers and instrumentalists for the group’s 20th anniversary season.

Auditions will be held 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 16, at All Saints Lutheran Church, 15649 N. Seventh Street, Phoenix. Rehearsals will begin later in August, and the in-person concert season will kick off in October. Music reading ability is required for the

chorale at intermediate level and above. Playing level must be advanced, intermediate and above for the Orchestra. Standard orchestral excerpts will be required for the audition. All auditions are by appointment only. For audition appointments and reper-

To Advertise 480.898.5606 erict@timespublications.com

Soards Trucking LLC

toire requirements, go to pmaz.org and click on the audition tab or contact Patti Graetz, artistic director, at pgraetz@ pmaz.org or 602-570-4458. Since its founding in 2003, ProMusica Arizona has become a leader in bringing live music to audiences primarily in the North Phoenix area. With almost 100 multigenerational singers and instrumentalists, the group has performed more than 275 times for over 134,000 people. ProMusica Arizona is a nonprofit organization and is supported by the Arizona Commission on the Arts, which receives support from the state of Arizona and the National Endowment for the Arts.

“We are the Gold Granite Specialists” 928-501-3006 Ofﬁce 602-571-4470 Diane We Offer Military Discounts

Licensed Contractor Family Owned and Operated Landscape Rock, Granite, Decorative Rock Sand & Gravel, Boulders SoardsTruckingllc@gmail.com

Catalyst, Convener, Champion

••

FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

When the tail wags the dog CHURCH COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Pastor Ed Delph Foothills Focus Columnist

he following testimony is by author and speaker Ty Bennett. What Mr. Bennett says in this short testimony is a life-lifting principle for those who put what he says into practice. What is the best advice you have ever received? For example, a coach told you, “When you quit, you fail.” Or maybe a friend said, “It’s OK to say no.” Or perhaps it was your mother who told you to wear clean underwear. In any case, advice from the right person at the right time can often change our perspective. That happened to me the first time I met Dr. Stephen Covey. At first, the advice he gave me seemed specific, but I have found his advice applies to almost everything and has shaped my mindset. When Stephen Covey found out I was writing a book, he said, “Make sure you write the book for the reader, not the writer.” Let that soak in. It’s excellent advice for a writer or speaker. I have thought about it often as I have written my four books. But the thought has more application when you think about it as a mindset. It’s not about you — it’s about the reader! An influencer’s focus is always on the audience. If you are a speaker, it’s about the people listening to you. If you are in sales, it’s about your customer or prospect. If you are a leader, it’s about the

people you lead. If you are a teacher, it’s about your students. If you are a parent, it’s about your children. Almost every influencer has this backward. They think being influential means they need to become polished or powerful. Influence, though, is all about the audience. Be it an audience of one or one thousand. A tremendous transformation takes place by thinking “out” instead of “in,” concentrating on others instead of on us. We go from inner-directed to outer-directed, from a taker to a giver, from self-centered to others-focused, from tightfisted to generous, from shortsighted to farsighted, and from selfish to selfless. We begin to see and act on behalf of others’ needs ahead of our own. Our thoughts become more “we” instead of “me.” That’s what Stephen Covey taught me with what seemed to be a simple piece of advice. Make sure you write the book for the reader, not the writer. Last October, I had the privilege of speaking at Primus University at its annual conference. I created a class for the university students entitled, “How to Write Your First Book So It Won’t Be Your Last Book.” The very first thought I presented was the following: People buy books for their sake, not your sake. They are the customer; you supply the product. Writing a book aims to communicate and add value to people’s lives. Connect the message with the audience. Don’t preach or show off your su-

percalifragilisticexpialidocious knowledge. Instead, aim for oneness with yourself and the audience. Ask yourself, “Am I communicating with my readers in heart, mind and soul?” Transformation starts with communication. My thought about writing is the same as Ty Bennett’s thought. You help yourself by helping others. You serve yourself by serving others. Using others to your end, especially as a writer, speaker, educator or public servant, is like the tail wagging the dog. You can’t turn people on if they want to turn you off. In John 17:26, Jesus is praying to the Father. “… and I have made Thy name known to them and will make it known.” Let me paraphrase what Jesus is saying here. “Father, I didn’t come to make myself known. I came to make you known. It’s not about me. It’s about you. I’m not serving myself; I’m serving you.” In Romans 1:1, Paul writes to the church in Rome, saying, “Paul, a bondservant of Christ Jesus, called as an apostle ...” Notice Paul says he was a servant of Christ and to others first before he was an apostle. So many in our culture today hide behind a title or office, serving themselves and their agendas first and the people they were elected, hired, appointed or called to serve second. They have uphill aspirations but downhill mindsets, agendas and habits. It’s a lose-lose for everyone. Here’s a reality that is unfortunate but true. Most people don’t lead their life.

They accept their life. That’s why they need trustworthy, truthful and caring servant leaders to inspire and lift them in business, church, government, media, entertainment, arts and education. So, you public or private servants of any type, consider the four questions people want to know beforehand for a trust relationship to form: Do you really like me? Can you help me? Can I trust you? Will you add value to my life? In other words, will the tail wag the dog, or the dog wag the tail? 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.

1720 E DEER VALLEY RD., #104

BACK TO SCHOOL

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

Back to School Imagine Schools strive for students to reach potential BY ALISON STANTON Foothills Focus Contributor

hen Imagine Schools opened its first campus in Arizona in 2002, they had one key goal in mind: for every student to develop their character as much as their comprehension of the curriculum. Twenty years later, Imagine Schools continues to embrace this core value at its 14 campuses throughout the state, including metropolitan locations in Phoenix, Mesa and as far west as Buckeye and southeast as Coolidge. As Frank Stirpe, director of operations and community development, noted, the approximately 8,000 pre-K

Children learn best when it’s interactive and fun. Here, children at Imagine Buckeye are learning science in an interactive, collaborative environment. (Imagine Schools/Submitted)

YOUTH

At the high school level, character development is often learned through extracurricular activities as seen here by students from Imagine Prep Superstition showcasing every sport offered at the school. (Imagine Schools/Submitted) through 12th graders who attend the nonprofit public charter school are taught much more than the traditional three R’s. “Students learn the ABCs and 123s, but we also focus on the whole child, so we also teach things like character development so that when they leave school, they will be productive members of our society,” he said. Everyone who works at Imagine Schools shares these values and are empowered to be part of this learning process, he added. Clara Thigpen, regional academic director, said in addition to using a standard based curriculum at the 13 brickand-mortar campuses and one online campus, each Imagine Schools campus

has autonomy to support individualized student learning, through various instructional approaches. This approach, Thigpen said, means each of the Imagine Schools campus is unique. However, all Imagine Schools across the country have common shared values. According to Thigpen, every campus shares several common threads, including a warm and welcoming atmosphere. “We also teach critical thinking, creative problem solving, and employ technology as learning tools on each campus,” Thigpen said, adding all students are encouraged to reflect and collaborate as they exchange ideas with their peers.

Because of Imagine Schools’ value-based culture, combined with its positive atmosphere, many families are eager to register all their children in Imagine Schools. “It’s extraordinary when families have all their siblings attend Imagine Schools because they want that family type of atmosphere. Parents, teachers and students alike remember our positive learning environment,” Thigpen said. With the 2022-2023 school year on the horizon, Thigpen said Imagine Schools is busy hosting open houses for prospective new families, as well as holding new teacher orientations. “Every year we formally welcome new teachers into our organization. I feel it is so important for them to know who we are as a network,” she said. “Educating students with integrity and accountability are what we are all about, and we empower our teachers to make decisions using our shared values.” Thigpen said she is thrilled to work for an organization that places such a strong emphasis on helping students to succeed academically and in character development. “I’m inspired every day working for Imagine Schools. I love the culture we’ve created — and the relationships nourished between students, educators and parents. With almost 30 years in various schools across the country, I have not found any other organization that permeates such a strong family-centered culture,” she said. For more information about Imagine Schools, visit imagineschools.com.

••

BACK TO SCHOOL

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

Edkey Inc. earns Cognia system accreditation BY FOOTHILLS FOCUS STAFF

dkey Inc. Family of K-12 Schools, also known as Sequoia Schools, earned system accreditation by Cognia, a nonprofit that provides quality assurance for schools, school districts and education service providers. Cognia, formerly known as AdvancED, nationally recognizes districts and charter school support organizations that meet rigorous standards focusing on productive learning environments, equitable resource allocation that meet the needs of learners and effective leadership.

Earning accreditation from the Cognia Global Accreditation Commission means the system and all of its schools are accredited, and that Edkey is recognized across the nation as a school system that meets Cognia Standards of Quality and maintains a commitment to continuous improvement. “Systems accreditation as conferred by the Cognia Global Accreditation Commission provides Edkey and each of our schools a nationally recognized mark of quality,” said Mark Plitzuweit, Edkey chief executive officer andpresident. “It demonstrates to our communities our commitment to excellence,

our openness to external review and feedback, and our desire to be the best we can be on behalf of the students we serve.” To earn accreditation from Cognia, a school district or charter school support organization also must implement a continuous process of improvement and submit to internal and external reviews. School systems in good standing can maintain their accreditation for a five-year term. Dr. Mark A. Elgart, president and chief executive officer of Cognia, said, “Cognia System Accreditation is a rigorous process that focuses the entire school system and its community on the primary goal of preparing lifelong

learners in engaging environments where all students can flourish. The Edkey Family of K-12 Schools is to be commended for demonstrating that it has met high standards and is making progress on key indicators that impact student learning.” Cognia is the parent organization of the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement, Northwest Accreditation Commission, and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement. Parents and interested community members can learn more about Cognia Accreditation at cognia.org.

“This is a week that shapes a lifetime,” said Penny Maklary, Girls State director. The girls were assigned to state of the art, eco-friendly instructional classrooms throughout the university. “Similar to past years, we have senior staff who work as city and county advisers, while junior counselors return from the previous year’s Girls State session to assist senior staff in the education — and fun — process,” Maklary said. American Legion Auxiliary Arizona Girls State comprises nine “cities” and three “counties.” There are 20 to 22 girls in each city and about 60 girls in each county. The girls are divided into two pseudo political parties called federalists

and nationalists. Precinct committeemen watch over all elections and assist political parties. Each city elected a mayor and council, wrote their own ordinances and resolutions, made a budget and a strategy for planning and zoning. Cities were assigned to a county and the educational process continued with campaigning and election to county and state positions. During the span of the week, they conducted regular city and party meetings, wrote and debated bills, received instruction from actual elected state and county officials and “learned by doing.” Midweek, they elected the prominent positions of governor and secretary of state. The girls elected to these

two positions will return to preside over the 76th session of American Legion Auxiliary Arizona Girls State. Culminating the week was the election of two delegates as senators to attend the prestigious American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation held the following month in Washington, D.C. Girls Nation is an all-expense-paid week with other girls elected state senators from across the nation. They will debate federal issues they present as bills, visit the Pentagon, Arlington National Cemetery, the White House and other memorials. For more information on Girls State or the American Legion Auxiliary, contact the American Legion Auxiliary Department of Arizona at 602241-1080.

Arizona Girls State marks 75th session

BY FOOTHILLS FOCUS STAFF

oulder Creek High School student Ainsley O’Connor was among the nearly 180 Arizona high school girls for the 75th session of Arizona Girls State. The opportunity is open to girls completing their junior year of high school that meet the necessary qualifications. The session ran from June 5 to June 11 at the University of Arizona. American Legion Auxiliary Arizona Girls State is a weeklong program designed to educate young women in the functions of their government and kindle the desire to actively participate in and responsibly fulfill their role as citizens.

Back to School

BACK TO SCHOOL

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

STUDENT CHRONICLES Know a student doing something remarkable? Tell us about it! Email christina@timespublications.com. BY FOOTHILLS FOCUS STAFF

age Lewis of Cave Creek was named to the Kalamazoo College spring 2022 dean’s list. Dean’s list recognition is earned with a grade-point average of 3.5 or better. Kalamazoo College, founded in 1833, is a nationally recognized residential liberal arts and sciences college located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The creator of the K-Plan, Kalamazoo College provides an individualized education that integrates rigorous academics with life-changing experiential learning opportunities. Info: kzoo.edu Jamie Smith of Cave Creek graduated from Western Carolina University in spring 2022. At the college in Cullowhee, North Carolina, more

than 1,900 students earned degrees this semester. Recognized as a top adventure college and surrounded by the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains, students can explore the region’s vast natural diversity through unrivaled experiential learning and recreational activities. It offers residential, hybrid and online programs for undergraduate and graduate degrees. Info: wcu.edu

Numerous area students were named to the University of Utah spring 2022 dean’s list. Amber Fawniel Walterscheid, Ainsley Payton Nystrom and Mason Walker Setto, all of Phoenix; and Rachel Elizabeth Curnutt of Cave Creek were among them. To qualify, students must earn a GPA of 3.5 or higher in at least 12 graded credit hours during any one term. Info: utah.edu

The Georgia Institute of Technology presented degrees to more than 4,500 undergraduate and graduate students in May at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Among the graduates were: Courtney Root of Anthem, Master of Science in cybersecurity; and Jaden West of Phoenix, Bachelor of Science in computer science with high honors. Georgia Tech offers business, computing, design, engineering, liberal arts and sciences degrees. Its nearly 44,000 students, representing 50 states and 149 countries, study at the main campus in Atlanta, at campuses in France and China, and through distance and online learning. It conducts more than $1 billion in research annually for government, industry and society. Info: gatech.edu

Emily Knape of Cave Creek and Carolyn Lee of Anthem were named to the dean’s list at Rochester Institute of Technology for the spring 2022 semester. Knape is in the media arts and technology program, while Lee is in the new media design program. Full-time degree-seeking undergraduate students are eligible for dean’s list if their term GPA is greater than or equal to 3.400; they do not have any grades of “incomplete,” “D” or “F;” and they have registered for, and completed, at least 12 credit hours. Rochester Institute of Technology was founded in 1829 in Rochester, New York. It enrolls about 19,700 students in more than 200 career-oriented and professional programs, making it among the largest private universities in the United States. Info: rit.edu

PLAN YOUR DREAM VACATION – FREE DATE CHANGES $

FROM

2,549

2,299

FROM

2,049

1,799

FROM

1,949

1,699 *

FREE ONBOARD CREDIT

BEST OF HAWAII FOURISLAND TOUR

GRAND ALASKAN CRUISE & TOUR

CRIMSON CANYONS & MESAS NATIONAL PARKS TOUR

Oahu • Hawaii Island • Kauai • Maui — Enjoy a fully

Vancouver • Ketchikan • Juneau • Skagway • Glacier Bay • Denali Anchorage • and more — Visit Denali

Las Vegas • Grand Canyon • Bryce Canyon • Zion • Capitol Reef • Arches & Canyonlands • Grand Junction • Denver and more — Prepare to be awed as you experience

12 days, departs year-round

guided 4-island Hawaiian vacation with centrally located lodging in Waikiki on Oahu, and beachfront lodging on the “Big Island” of Hawaii, Kauai, and Maui. Guided throughout by our friendly Tour Directors—your local experts. Includes 3 inter-island flights.

10 days, departs April - September 2023

12 days, departs May - September 2023

National Park and Glacier Bay National Park on the same incredible trip! Cruise through the Gulf of Alaska and the Inside Passage as you discover the best of the Frontier State by land and by sea.

* Prices are per person based on double occupancy plus up to $299 in taxes & fees. Single supplement and seasonal surcharges may apply. Add-on airfare available. Free date changes 100 days before departure for all land tours and cruise tours. Deposits and final payments are non-refundable. Onboard Credit requires purchase of Ocean View or Balcony Cabin. Offers apply to new bookings only, made by 9/30/22. Other terms & conditions may apply. Ask your Travel Consultant for details.

promo code N7017

the stunningly red rocks of these 6 iconic southwestern national parks. Travel through deserts, forests, mountains, and to the very edge of the Grand Canyon on this breathtaking tour.

CALL 1-855-646-0861

••

CLASSIFIEDS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

Ahwatukee Chandler Gilbert Glendale Mesa North Valley Peoria Phoenix SanTan Scottsdale Queen Creek West Valley

CLASSIFIEDS.PHOENIX.ORG To Advertise Call: 480-898-6465 or email Class@TimesLocalMedia.com Commerical/Industrial/Retail

Commerical/ Industrial/Retail

Meetings/Events

Drywall

Anthem - Office Suites Available for Rent

Affordable Anthem Executive Office Suite for Lease in Gateway Office Park. Incl: Internet, util, alarmed. 623-696-8670

Alanon meeting : New River Serenity Thursday nights 7P Desert Hills Comm Church, 34835 N. 7th St. 85086 newriverserenity.com

DONALDSON DRYWALL

Low price Great professional working atmosphere Several business suites available

Call or text 623-340-3700

Announcements

Air Conditioning/Heating

QUALITY, VALUE and a GREAT PRICE!

Lifetime Warranty on Workmanship New 3-Ton 14 SEER AC Systems Only $5,995 INSTALLED! New Trane Air Conditioners NO INTEREST FINANCING - 60 MONTHS!

PlumbSmart Over 1,000 Five-Star Plumbing Heating & Air Google Reviews ★★★★★

Bonded/Insured • ROC #289252

602-805-0703

Irrigation

Cave creek Resident Since 1984 • Water Damage • TV Niche Changes • Texture Match • Repairs/Remodels • New construction

FREE ESTIMATES 480-861-1375

Family Owned & Operated

Licensed Bonded Insured ROC #289594

Glass/Mirror • Custom Glass • Shower Doors & Enclosures • Window Glass Replacement • Custom Mirrors • Glass Table Tops & Shelves

Landscape/Maintenance

Come and visit our custom glass showroom behind the Dairy Queen in Cave Creek.

480-235-6101

Sprinkler Repair Landscaping & More!

www.aboveandbeyondglass.com ROC 233846 & ROC 236899

FEEL THE

Comfort

Irrigation ROC#215280

YOU’VE BEEN

Missing!

602-789-3000 info@azperfectcomfort.com www.azperfectcomfort.com

Irrigation

& Landscape est. 2002 ~ Anthem, Arizona

Install • Repair • Replace CALL CLASSIFIEDS

480-898-6465

We'll Get Your Phone to Ring!

VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED • ROC#300933 • BONDED & INSURED

HEATING • COOLING • INDOOR AIR QUALITY

623-203-7717

• Affordable Same Day Service • Dependable • Guaranteed • 12 Years Experience

No Job Too Big or Small

602-330-6965

Residential & Commercial

CLASSIFIEDS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

Landscape/Maintenance

Plumbing

AZCAN

Roofing

DUKES EXCAVATING

Drain Cleaning Experts, water heaters, disposals, water & sewer lines repaired/replaced & remodels. Rapid Response. If water runs through it we do it! 602-663-8432

Looking for assisted living, memory care, or independent living? A Place for Mom simplifies the process of finding senior living at no cost to your family. Call 1-866-383-0061 today! (AzCAN)

PHILLIPS

Wyman Plumbing. Your friendly neighborhood plumber for the NORTH PHX area! We can quote most jobs over the phone! 623-551-6688 ROC License #309216 Book Online at wyman-services.com

WANTED OLD SPORTSCARS/CONVERTIBLES: Porsche, Mercedes, Jaguar, Triumph/MG, Ferrari, Corvette & others! 1973 & OLDER! ANY condition! TOP $$ PAID! Call/Text: Mike 520977-1110. I bring trailer & cash! (AzCAN)

SEPTIC SYSTEMS ◆ COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL CONVENTIONAL, ALTERNATIVE SEWER, STORM DRAIN & RETENTION SITE DEVELOPMENT ◆ UTILITIES ROC KA 302118 General Contractor JIM DUKES

623.606.8411

515 E. Carefree Hwy, #44, Phoenix, AZ 85085 dukesexcavatinginc@gmail.com

DESIGN CREATE MAINTAIN 623-465-2546

iddingsandsons.com ROC #166390

Plumbing

PLUMBERS CHARGE TOO MUCH! FREE Service Calls + FREE Estimates Water Heaters Installed - $999 Unclog Drains - $49

ROOFING LLC COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

Family Owned and Operated 43 Years Experience in Arizona

623-873-1626

Roofing

480-699-2754 • info@monsoonroofinginc.com

10% Discount for Ahwatukee Residents 100% NO Leak Guarantee Re-Roof & Roofing Repairs Tile, Shingles & Flat Roof

MonsoonRooﬁngInc.com Licensed – Bonded – Insured – ROC187561

Free Estimates Monday through Saturday Licensed 2006 ROC 223367 Bonded Insured

PhillipsRoofing.org PhillipsRoofing@cox.net

10% OFF

All Water Purification Systems Voted #1 Plumber 3 Years In A Row OVER 1,000 5-STAR REVIEWS

KIB EXCAVATING Your Septic System Experts

Complete Septic Systems • Conventional & Alternative and Repairs

Engineered Pads • Site Prep • Grading • Hard Digs Utilities • Trucking/Hauling • Driveways (Gravel, Dirt and Rock)

Mobile

602.319.1089

Bonded/Insured • ROC #223709

602-805-0702

Licensed • Bonded • Insured COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL

Quality you deserve for a great price you can afford.

✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Yard Clean-ups Maintenance Tree trimming Water features Irrigation / Repair

FREE ESTIMATES! Call Brian

480-388-9442

Your Ad can go ONLINE ANY Day! Call to place your ad online! Classifieds 480-898-6465

Your leaks stop here! New Roofs, Repairs, Coatings, Flat Roof, Hot Mopping & Patching & Total Rubber Roof Systems

North Valley Landscaping

FREE ESTIMATES & MONSOON SPECIALS SHARE WITH THE WORLD! Place a Birth, Anniversary, Wedding Announcement, In Memoriam, Obituary or any life event in this paper today! Call us for details.

class@TimesLocalMedia.com or call 480-898-6465

SAME DAY SERVICE 30 Years Experience References Available

Licensed Bonded Insured ROC 286561

Senior & Military Discounts

623-522-9322

It Only Takes Seconds to Drown. Always watch your child around water.

••

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JULY 20, 2022

BESTOF

2022

BEST JEWELRY STORE - AND -

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE