The Foothills Focus - Zone 1 - 10.27.2021 by Times Media Group

ECRWSS Carrier Route PreSorted Standard U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 371 Cave Creek, AZ

Bruce Kirkwood PAGE

Carol Brook

Serving the communities of Anthem, Desert Hills, Norterra, Sonoran Foothills, Stetson Valley, Tramonto, New River, Desert Ridge and North Phoenix

TheFoothillsFocus.com

INSIDE

This Week

BUSINESS ......... 18

Bus driver shortage aﬀects school schedules

FEATURES ........ 25 Hidden in the Hills artist studio tours returns

YOUTH ............. 37 New River Kiwanis Club hosts Trunk or Treat

OPINION ................... 14 BUSINESS ................. 18 FEATURES ................ 20 YOUTH ...................... 35 CLASSIFIEDS ............ 38 Zone I

Anthem Area Edition

PAGE

Wednesday, October 27, 2021

Honor service members’ sacri�ices at parade BY ALLISON BROWN Foothills Focus Staff Writer

he Daisy Mountain Veterans Parade returns to the streets Saturday, Nov. 6, for its 17th year of celebrating and honoring veterans, active duty military and their families. “We’re just happy that people are getting back to it and wanting to be a part of this again,” said Reagan Briggs, secretary for Daisy Mountain Veterans. “Having a year off of anything can be really dev-

see VETERANS page 6

The 17th annual Daisy Mountain Veterans Parade returns Saturday, Nov. 6 to celebrate and honor veterans, active duty military and their families. (Submitted photo)

Christmas tree arriving Nov. 4 at outlets BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

anta Claus will help Outlets at Anthem usher in the holiday season when Arizona’s tallest fresh-cut Christmas tree arrives on a 40-foot �latbed truck at 6:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 4. If winds are calm, the tree will then be lifted into place at 7:45 a.m. via an industrial crane. “I think people tend not to realize the tree arrival is really exciting and interesting,” said Christina Henning, the Outlets at Anthem’s senior marketing manager.

“We don’t get a lot of families who come out for the tree arrival. It’s early in the morning on a school day. We do have a handful who come every year.” This year — the 20th consecutive event — the selected white �ir will be transported from the California/Oregon border. It is 70 feet tall and 20 feet wide. “For 20 years, Outlets at Anthem has dependably provided this festive and cheery holiday attraction,” said JoAnn Truax, director of real estate and marketing, Outlets at Anthem.

see

TREE page 4

Arizona’s tallest fresh-cut Christmas tree arrives to Outlets at Athem Thursday Nov. 4. (File photo)

Milgard® offers beautiful, comfortable, energy efficient vinyl windows and doors for your home Whether you’re building a new home or renovating your existing one, your choices are wide open when it comes to selecting beautifully designed Milgard windows and patio doors. Strong, beautiful, long lasting and durable. Milgard windows and patio doors are designed with stunning architectural style and superior performance. Plus, you’ll feel secure in your investment with an industry leading, Full Lifetime Warranty that includes parts and labor.

4454 E. Thomas Rd. Phoenix • 602-508-0800 • liwindow.com Mon-Thurs 8:30-5pm • Fri 8:30-4pm • Sat by appointment only • ROC#179513

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

COMPLETE PLUMBING SOLUTIONS BOOK ONLINE TODAY!

We Do Gas Lines! Whether it’s a whole new underground pipe system or just a few feet, we have the experience and skills to install your gas piping!

• • • • • •

Dryers Kitchen Stoves Built-In Grills Fire Pits Fireplaces Heaters *Permits Required

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 | OCTOBER 27, 2021

NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

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

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

For the 20th consective year, the selected white fir will be transported from the California/Oregon border stretching 70 feet tall and 20 feet wide. (File phto)

TREE from page 1

“The tallest Christmas tree in Arizona is a sight to see, and we can’t wait to welcome the community to our open-air space where they can carry on their holiday traditions and create new ones with the ones they love.” A 10-person team will spend two weeks — and more than 120 hours — using articulating boom lifts to shape and decorate the tree. The tree will be topped with a 3-foot-tall copper star, a nod to the state’s of�icial metal. More than 1.5 miles of LED lights, approximately 10,000 bulbs, will illuminate the tree and roughly 5,000 ornaments and bows will �inish off the breathtaking spectacle. The tree will weigh close to 4 tons when completely decorated. “It takes about two or three days (to assemble the tree),” Henning said. “They sort the branches and decide where they’re going to go in and �ill any gaps. “Once the rebranching is complete, they put �ire retardant on it. It’s green so that gives the tree a uniform color. The lights are put on, along with the ornaments and bows. The �inal touch is the RGB lights, which we added a couple years ago. Then, they’re choreographed into a show set to music.” To ensure the tree is kept fresh all sea-

A 10-person team will spend nearly two weeks using articulating boom lifts to shape and decorate the tree. (File photo) son long, it is housed in a custom-made 7-foot deep well and sprayed with nearly 120 gallons of �ire retardant. Six industrial wires hold the tall tree in place and stabilize it during windy weather. “Visitors and shoppers can come to Outlets at Anthem with con�idence knowing they’ll have a safe and enjoyable shopping experience because we are following all CDC recommendations for public safety,” Truax added. The tree lighting is planned for Saturday, Nov. 20. Details on the event are pending as they are determined by the precautions and safety measures dictated by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “It’ll be an interactive family-friendly music show, propelled by audience participation,” Henning said.

The date for the tree lighting is Nov. 20 pending COVID-19 restrictions. (File photo)

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

u O Y n a C h t r a e Wh ere On e? im t Y u B Y l l a u t C a

ARIZONA’S LARGEST GROWER DIRECT NURSERY FOR FOUR GENERATIONS!

• Best Plants In Town • Friendly, Knowledgeable Nurserymen • No Commissioned High-Pressure Sales People • Best Price In Town On Quality Trees!

Why Waste years WaitoinWg

for young trees to gr When We can install mature specimens to it u r f e iv g , e d a h s e id v o r p is! s a o t n a t s in n a e t a e r c and

SHADE TREES

Hundreds of acres of locally grown favorites in sizes from 15 gal to huge 72” box trees 30’ tall. Ash, Elm, Ficus, Pistachio, Mesquite, Palo Verde, Olive, Pines, Ironwood, Orchids, Oak & many more!

You’ll See The Difference As Soon As You Arrive!

PALMS Arizona’s Best Selection Grower-Direct From Our Farms Dates • Bismarkia California and Mexican Fan Cycads • Blues And More!

BESTOF

2021

DELICIOUS CITRUS, FRUIT TREES, FIGS & MORE! Grow Your Own Garden

Plant your own paradise

WORTH THE DRIVE FROM ANYWHERE! VALLEYWIDE DELIVERY JUST $100! MAIN TREE FARM 2647 E. Southern Ave. (Phx) 602-268-9096

EAST VALLEY Cooper (Stapley) & Guadalupe 480-892-2712

NORTH PHX /SCOTTSDALE 824 E. Glendale Ave. 602-944-8479

NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

VETERANS from page 1

astating and we’ve seen so many not come back after COVID and 2020 and everything. So, the fact that we’re still able to pull it off here and still able to support all the veterans is huge.” The event starts at 9 a.m. with a parachute jump by the Frog X team. They will land at the Anthem soccer fields and then greet children and parents. At 9:15, Frog X will walk the flag to the front of the parade route along with the children and their parents. During this time, the team will talk to the children about what it means to be in service. At 9:30, the parachute team will present the flag to the Sandra Day O’Connor Color Guard. Then, a flyover by old wartime planes at 10 a.m. officially kicks off the parade. The route starts on the corner of Gavilan Peak Parkway and Memorial Drive and ends at the Anthem Community Center. Each year, Daisy Mountain Veterans chooses a different group of service members to be highlighted. This year,

FREE

This year’s parade grand marshals will be veterans that served or are still serving in the U.S. military during Operation Enduring Freedom. (Submitted photo)

see VETERANS page 8

Cold Laser Therapy

20 OFF

Laser treatment with an exam

the parade grand marshals will be from veterans that served, or are still serving, in the U.S. military during Operation Enduring Freedom — the global war on terrorism. “Our grand marshals this year are going to be anyone who’s served from 9-11 to present day,” said Adriane Luczywko, marketing coordinator for the organization. “It’s just a great family event and opportunity to also show our youth what these veterans have done for us and what they’ve sacrificed.” This event has grown from a smalltown get-together to one of the most prestigious patriotic parades anywhere. It is the largest civilian-run parade west of the Mississippi River, meaning that those who choose to participate are volunteers using their own time and resources to make the event happen. Briggs said they have more than 50 floats signed up and will continue to get more. Luczywko said they also

a laser package

The cold laser therapy is a noninvasive procedure that uses light to stimulate cells and increase blood circulation. At the correct laser/light wavelength, pain signals are reduced and nerve sensitivity decreases. The procedure also releases endorphins, or natural painkillers. It is not recommended for animals that have cancer because the device can stimulate blood flow to cancer cells. The procedure is based on the idea that light is absorbed into the cells. The process, known as photo-biotherapy, stimulates protein synthesis and cell metabolism, which improves cell health and functionality. The therapy can take as little as 8 to 10 minutes on a small dog or cat, up to about a half an hour for bigger dogs with multiple arthritic areas.

2750 W. Dove Valley Rd, Suite 150, Phoenix, AZ 85085 (623) 594-7466 • www.PetWellnessaz.com

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

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 15 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

November Special

100

OFF New Water Heater Installation

100

“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

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

15 Years in Business

OFF New A/C Unit Installation *Cannot be combined with any other offers. Expires November 30,2021.

623.582.1117

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

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

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

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

The event will start at 9 a.m. with a parachute jump by the Frog X team that will land at the Anthem soccer fields to then greet children and parents. (Submitted photo)

VETERANS from page 6

rely on community partners like Duty Defense, who volunteers to clean the horse and dog droppings; Boy Scouts, who help put up flyers; local churches, who allow their parking lots to be used; the Anthem Country Club, who donates golf carts to be used and several others. Briggs said she attended the first Daisy Mountain Veteran Parade as a child and has since seen her dad, a veteran, be an announcer at the event for several years. She was a volunteer for 10 years before officially joining the board of directors this year. Briggs said the organization itself only has about 10 people who put everything together behind the scenes, which makes it a bit of a daunting task. But she followed that up and said while it is hard work, it is a job that should be

done and that is well worth the effort. “We all have a lot of time, a lot of energy and blood, sweat and tears in this,” Briggs said. “We are very happy to get this back and work hard doing so. We owe it to all those who served all of us to do something to celebrate. It’s a cause very near and dear to our hearts. Anything we can do we are more than happy to do. They deserve to be honored any and every day of the entire year, but if not, we’ve made one day very impactful.” Luczywko said she also has military family members, and volunteers her time to make sure their sacrifices are recognized both now and in the future. “For me, personally, I have a lot of veterans and some active duty members in my family. Remembering those

see VETERANS page 10

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Close call A driver escaped serious injury after a recent crash in Anthem Country Club, according to Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical. The department reminds drivers to pay attention to the roads, slow down and wear seatbelts. (Photo courtesy of Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical)

A gentle reminder that we will be closed Saturday, Oct. 2nd thru Tuesday, Oct. 12th for some rest and healing

October Specials

BRIGHTEN YOUR APPEARANCE with a non-surgical

LASER EYE RESURFACING TREATMENT $649 (Reg. $750) OR

package of 3 treatments

DISSOLVE STUBBORN FAT PERMANENTLY with KYBELLA injections

Reduce Chin Fat, Jowls, Bra Fat, Love Handles, Lower Abdomen $999 treatment (Reg. $1200) (may need up to 3 treatments)

$1800 (Reg. $2250)

OCTOBER IS THE FLASH FORWARD TO FALL PERFECT TIME TO SHED THAT DEAD SKIN with a SkinScriptRx THE PERFECT DERMA ORANGE CLOVE FACIAL with PEEL and get DRAMATIC $79 Includes a creamy RESULTS! VANILLA CLOVE

HYDRATING MASK to hydrate and infuse nourishment into the skin

A medical-grade formulation will target Sun Spots, Acne Scars, and a Dull or Aging Complexion $399 (for all skin types and ethnicities)

Ghouls Just Wanna Have Fun at our 5th

ANNUAL HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR BOO-TOX EVENT FRIDAY, OCTOBER 29th, ONE DAY ONLY Botox and Filler Specials, Skincare Deals, Laser Discounts, and Hydrafacial Packages that will make you howl with delight. Wanna Secure Your Spot Before We Reopen on Oct. 13th? Find us on the MindBody App to Schedule

42211 N. 41st Drive, Suite A109, Anthem 623.399.8222w PremierWellnessAZ.com

NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

VETERANS from page 8

people and showing them respect is something I grew up with. So, to me, that’s something I want to pass on to the generation behind me,” she said. “Then I also see the struggles of veterans today and we see a lot of veterans and families struggling. They don’t make a lot of money, a lot of them have mental illnesses from PTSD and I think we should really make sure that

we take care of them and we don’t forget about them.” Daisy Mountain Veterans was established because there was not an organization in the area that united veterans or current active duty military members who had shared experiences. It grew to serve north Phoenix, Desert Hills, Anthem, New River and Black Canyon. Luczywko said the annual parade means a great deal to these veterans and has also become a

Active duty and veterans will be in attendance for the Daisy Mountain Veterans Day parade taking place Saturda, Nov. 6 starting at 9 a.m. with a parachute jump. (Submitted photo)

Fifty floats have already signed up to participate in this years Veterans Day parade. (Submit-

VETERANS DAY CEREMONY NOVEMBER 11, 2021 • 10 a.m.

Anthem Veterans Memorial

41703 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway Anthem, Arizona • Exit 229 off I-17

OnlineAtAnthem.com/AVM

ted photo)

staple for the community. “It’s a huge deal to them. We reach a lot of veterans in and around our community,” she said. “Then other people just come to enjoy the parade and it’s become something they do with their families. A lot of people in Anthem, if you ask them if they have been to the parade, they say, ‘Yes, we go every

year.’” The event is free and open to the public. Families are encouraged to get there early for a good view of the Frog X parachute jump and are recommended to gather around the west edge of the Anthem soccer field on Gavilan Peak Parkway. Other than that, Briggs said to sit back and enjoy the day. “Bring your chair, bring anything you need, bring your friends and family and be ready to have a really great time and to honor those who served and who are currently serving for our country,” Briggs said. Daisy Mountain Veterans Day

WHEN: 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 6 (parade starts at 10 a.m.) WHERE: Starts at the corner of Gavilan Peak Parkway and Memorial Drive, ends at the Anthem Community Center COST: Free INFO: daisymtnvets.org

SHOP LOCAL AND SAVE UP TO - $1,500

• New Construction Windows • Interior Doors and Trim ® THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021 Multi-slide - Bi-folding Doors • Doors VELUX Skylights and Sun Tunnels 11 • • Replacement Windows • Barn & Hardware • Construction Replacement Windows •• Barn Doors &Trim Hardware • • New Windows • Interior Doors and Entry, French and Patio Doors Security Doors & Retractable Screens • •

SHOP LOCAL AND SAVE UP TO $1,500 SHOP LOCAL AND SAVE UP TO $1,500 • New Construction Windows • Interior Doors and Trim Multi-slide - Bi-folding Doors • VELUX Skylights and Sun Tunnels ®

• Replacement Windows • French Multi-slide -Patio Bi-folding Entry, and DoorsDoors • Construction Replacement Windows • New Windows • • Entry, French andDoors Patio Doors New Construction Windows • Multi-Side - Bi-folding • Entry, French and- Bi-folding Patio Doors • Multi-slide Doors •

Entry, French and Patio Doors

• Barn Doors ®&Skylights Hardwareand Sun Tunnels • VELUX • • Security Doors & Retractable Screens Doors & Hardware •Barn Interior Doors and Trim • Security Doors Retractable • •Interior Doors and Trim VELUX® Skylights and&Sun Tunnels Screens ® Security Doors and & Retractable Skylights Sun TunnelsScreens • •VELUX •

ROOF WINDOWS

Security Doors & Retractable Screens AND SKYLIGHTS ROOF WINDOWS AND SKYLIGHTS ROOF WINDOWS AND SKYLIGHTS ROOF WINDOWS AND SKYLIGHTS

SECURITY SCREEN SECURITY SECURITY SCREEN DOORS SECURITY SCREEN DOORS SCREEN DOORS DOORS

602.508.0800 | liwindow.com

| |

NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

E V I L U O Y E R E WH E G N A H C N A C E V I L U O Y W HO We make life easier and more fulfilling by tending to all the necessities such as cooking, housekeeping, and maintenance while you sit back and relax.

Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care

42015 N. Venture Drive, Anthem, AZ 85086 928-482-7554 | TheEnclaveAtAnthemSeniorLiving.com/SpectrumStrong

Age fearlessly. Live colorfully.®

FREE DATE CHANGES FROM

FROM $

2,549

2,299

1,949

1,699 *

FREE ONBOARD CREDIT

BEST OF HAWAII FOUR-ISLAND TOUR

GRAND ALASKAN CRUISE & TOUR

12 days, departs year-round Oahu • Hawaii Island • Kauai • Maui — Enjoy a fully 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.

12 days, departs May - September 2022 Seattle • Vancouver • Ketchikan • Juneau • Skagway • Glacier Bay • Anchorage • Denali • and more — Visit Denali 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.

promo code N7017

CALL 1-855-646-0861

* 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 prior to final payment. 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 12/31/21. Other terms & conditions may apply. Ask your Travel Consultant for details.

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Spooky Savings! • • • • •

Vinyl Plank Laminate Wood Tile Carpet

HUGE SALE!

60 60 60 6 All Flooring

Vinyl Plank - Laminate Wood - Tile - Carpet

Padding & Materials

Professional Installation

License, Bonded, Insured

Call NOW! 623-244-8260 623-244-

Or Go Online www.healthyhomeﬂooring.co

FREE Air Duct cleaning*

Shop At Home Next Day installation Lifetime Labor Warranty 36 MONTHS 0% ﬁnancing*

ROC328401

5 Stars

Reviews * 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. Financing is based on approved credit. $5,000 min purchase for free air duct cleaning. 60/60/60 sale must buy the largest room at full retail price, each additional room 60/60/60 discount may apply, based on select styles items, and in-stock flooring only. Includes standard installation and labor only. Free home disinfectant service makes no claims to kill COVID-19 or prevent it.

OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Opinion TheFoothillsFocus.com

@TheFoothills.Focus

For more opinions visit thefoothillsfocus.com /TheFoothillsFocus

AROUND THE BLUHMIN’ TOWN

‘Witching’ you a happy Halloween BY JUDY BLUHM Foothills Focus Columnist

t is time to get spooky. The approach of Halloween may cause a whole lot of ghouls and witches to come knocking at your door and it also brings the joy of candy! This year Americans will spend $2 billion on confection and another $5 billion on decorations and costumes. Yum, but the amount of sugar we consume is frightful! What’s a few thousand calories every now and then? You might see cute little kids in your neighborhood all dressed up in cos-

tumes. That tradition goes back to the medieval times, when poor adults and children went around in costumes during “Hallowmas,” the autumn holiday which included folks begging for food and money in exchange for prayers. This annual routine was called “souling” and was brought to America by the Irish early in the 20th century. The idea of walking around asking for candy completely went away during WWII when sugar was rationed, but by 1952 trick-or-treating was hugely popular again. And it has been ever since. Even with fears — mostly unfounded

— about kids getting razor blades stuck in their candy, children going house-tohouse asking complete strangers for candy, is one big American tradition. Doesn’t a Bloody Mary sound good? Oops, no I mean to talk about the ghost of Bloody Mary. Evidently, on Oct. 31 each year, she will appear if you stare into a mirror in a darkened room by the light of thirteen candles and chant “Bloody Mary” 13 times. Don’t do it! The vengeful spirit might appear at your left shoulder and will either kill you or make

see BLUHM page 17

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

NEXT WEEK!

DVUSD Fall Kindergarten Preview Nights Nov. 1-4 • Fall 2022 Registration Opens Nov. 1 JOIN US for Kindergarten Preview Nights at all K-6 & K-8 Schools!

Find out why DVUSD is an #Extraordinary place to learn!

For a Full List of Deer Valley’s Preview Nights Dates & Times: www.dvusd.org/kinderevents

OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Is Kelly missing the mark? BY J.D. HAYWORTH Foothills Focus Columnist

f airline and orbital miles were interchangeable, Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Arizona) would never have to purchase a plane ticket. Kelly, who logged more than 22 million miles orbiting the earth as an astronaut, hopes voters will upgrade his status and grant him a full six-year term in November 2022. Currently, he’s on “standby.” Facing the prospect of a spirited Republican challenge next year, the freshman Democrat hopes to employ the advantage of incumbency to keep his job. That’s growing increasingly difficult, given the poor presidential record of Joe

Biden. So, Kelly welcomes the chance to focus on Arizona issues, as he can be seen an advocate for the state. That was the case earlier this month when he chaired a water and power subcommittee hearing dealing with drought in the west. Sure enough, Sen. Kelly’s scripted opening remarks included a shoutout to the home folks: “We’ve got this old saying in Arizona: ‘Whiskey is for drinking and water is for fighting.’” There’s accuracy in that anecdote, as Mark Kelly is discovering. An emerging controversy over water has delayed cocktail hour indefinitely, and this fight goes well beyond the Colorado River and a shrinking Lake Mead. It also winds its way through the high-rent

headquarters of big money environmental pressure groups, the cavernous halls of the Pentagon and, perhaps most dangerously, the “other chamber” on Capitol Hill. The radical leftists in the House who so often outmaneuver Speaker Nancy Pelosi have also thrown a monkey wrench into Sen. Kelly’s re-election plans. It comes in the form of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), and a House-passed provision concerning an acronym that Mark Kelly may come to regard as a four-letter word — at least politically. PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, comprise a major class of heat-resistant chemicals found in products like nonstick pans, adhesives, wire

insulation and waterproof clothes. PFAS are even used in spacesuits, like the one Mark Kelly wore on his walks outside the space shuttle. House Democrats thrust the “PFAS Action Act of 2021” into the NDAA, because it wouldn’t likely pass

ger to get old in the 21st century, with all our technology and science than it did back a couple decades ago. Or so I’ve deluded myself. In addition to swabbing away some of my naivete, aging has also increased my tolerance. One example is the newfound respect I have for Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady, who at 44 is leading the National Football League in passing yards and completions while chasing an unfathomable eighth Super Bowl ring. For context, Cardinals QB Kyler Murray was 3 when Brady made his NFL debut. Brady peaking again this late in athletic life makes you wonder how long he can go without a noticeable decline in performance. I had the same thought a few weeks ago while listening to Don Henley, lead singer of The Eagles, hit some impossibly high notes on classics like “One of These Nights” and “Desperado.” At age 74, Henley sounds no different than he did back in the day. If his voice is being helped along by autotune or technical wizardry, I couldn’t tell. What’s

more, I didn’t care. On a Saturday night in September in Downtown Phoenix, surrounded by 15,000 other lunatics who also knew every lyric — and didn’t mind coming out in the midst of a pandemic — you could close your eyes and be transported back to 1977, when “Hotel California” first hit FM radio and shot up to No. 1 on Casey Kasem’s American Top 40. That’s something age has taught me about music, movies, television and books: The best art not only captures a unique story, it helps us capture a unique state of self. Great songs are like thumbtacks affixing certain moments in time in our minds and hearts. It’s a quality that my older self appreciates, in the same way I have a new appreciation for The Rolling Stones. I plunked down a small fortune the other day to see them in Las Vegas next month, nearly 24 years to the day after I skipped them in Tempe. Jagger is 78. Richards and Ronnie Wood are 77. Drummer Charlie Watts passed away in August at age 80. Used to be, I found something morti-

fying about the idea of Mick cavorting about bare-chested in leather pants, singing “if you start me up, I’ll never stop” at an age when most of his peers were worrying more about sitting up. Not anymore. Now I get it. Whoever barked “act your age” was some know-it-all in his thirties who’d read a bunch of books but hadn’t really lived at all.

Getting older has made me look differently at aging

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Foothills Focus Columnist

he first time I poked fun at the Rolling Stones for being too old to rock ‘n’ roll was in 1997. The band, led by then-54-year-old Mick Jagger, was in Tempe to play Sun Devil Stadium. Lead guitarist Keith Richards was a few weeks shy of turning 54 — a couple years younger than I am today. The Stones must have torn it up that night, because news reports from the concert indicate that sparks from their pyrotechnics set off a huge blaze in some bleachers behind the stage. So much for my jokes about that being The Depends Tour. I raise the point out of a desire to clarify some things concerning the concept of old age. One, despite having multiple college degrees by the time I reached my thirties, I was still a naive jackass. Retrospect is startling that way, helping you know what you don’t know. Two, the older I get, the more distant old age feels. Part of that is wishful thinking. But also, it seems to take lon-

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

both chambers as a standalone piece of legislation. As written, the PFAS verbiage is so extreme that it would derail military procurement. It was even too much for the Biden White House, which quietly pushed back in a memo from the office of management and budget, noting such a provision “would prohibit DoD from procuring a wide range of items.” While the manufacture of PFAS has been phased out in the United States over long-term health concerns — pri-

BLUHM from page 14

you insane. Dear readers, if you try this and let me know what happens. Have you decorated yet? About 70% of Americans will decorate their homes for Halloween with everything from pumpkins to hanging skeletons from trees. You get the picture — lots of black cats, witches, devils, demons, ghosts and jack-o-lanterns out there to set the mood. Our habit of lighting up pumpkins dates back centuries when the thought was that ghouls and ghosts hate light. So, a pumpkin placed at your door, with a candle flickering inside, would keep away any restless spirits flying around that might land at your house. We love our pumpkins. But they attract javelinas! I thought I would decorate by lining my walkway to the front door with a dozen pumpkins. They were beautiful! And once dusk came so did the pack of javelinas! They devoured my festive orbs, leaving the beasts with orange goo all over their little piggy faces and a mess on my sidewalk! No wonder we like to eat candy on Halloween! We must comfort ourselves in our fight against the witches, ghosts, vengeful spirits, demons and javelinas that might come to our doorstep! So, get ready! Carve a pumpkin, light a candle, drink a Blood Mary (do not chant for her spirit), enjoy the decorations, avoid demons and start eating candy right now. Boo! The scariest day of all is coming soon. Witching you a very haunted Halloween. Judy Bluhm is a writer and a local Realtor. Have a comment or a question? Email Judy at judy@judybluhm.com.

marily residues from fire-fighting foams — it is still produced overseas. Because our military has about 750 installations internationally, an immediate halt to buying all products that might contain PFAS would basically render the supply system useless. Prior to his time as an astronaut, naval aviator Mark Kelly and his shipmates aboard the USS Midway relied on PFAS, most notably contained in aqueous film foaming foam (AFFF). Our Navy regards AFFF as the most effective way to extinguish fuel oil fires aboard ship. The development of AFFF occurred in the late 1960s, following the tragic fire aboard the USS Forrestal off the coast of Vietnam. That blaze was narrowly escaped by another naval aviator who later served Arizona in the Senate: John McCain. In the 2020 special election to fill the late Sen. McCain’s seat, Mark Kelly persuaded Arizona voters to favorably compare him by emphasizing similar military service, while downplaying different party labels. But while McCain relished “going rogue” in the Senate,

Kelly cast himself as a “practical problem solver.” Now that he is completing the remainder of McCain’s final term, striking a balance between environmental protection and military readiness will test that claim. The most important principle for an officeholder to remember is what they see and hear at home. This columnist came to understand that Arizonans’ concerns about clean water and a strong national defense are not mutually exclusive. Sen. Kelly faces a similar tutorial.

Undoubtedly, the environmental lobby will bring considerable financial resources to the political process. (After all, they’re called “green” for a reason.) Should Sen. Kelly choose to follow their priorities, Arizona voters could very well make it a priority to limit his stay in the Senate to two years. In just nine months, the bumbling of the Biden administration has turned the political skies unfriendly for Democrats. Given his considerable experience aloft, Mark Kelly knows he’ll need to keep his seatbelt fastened. There is severe turbulence ahead.

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.

699

Watch or Key Fob Battery Replacement & Installation CDP12578 Limit 10 Expires 12.01.21 Offer valid on in-stock products at participating Batteries Plus locations. Not valid online or with other offers or business pricing. Some exclusions may apply. No cash value. Coupon may not be reproduced. To receive discount, offer must be presented at time of in-store purchase. Discounted price valid on 1 battery per device. See store for complete details.

% Off

Any Purchase CDP10070 Limit 10 Expires 12.01.21 Offer valid on in-stock products at participating Batteries Plus locations and online. Not valid with other offers or business pricing. Some exclusions may apply. No cash value. Coupon may not be reproduced. To receive discount, offer must be presented at time of in-store purchase or promo code entered at batteriesplus.com. See store for complete details.

Peoria

YOUR DESTINATION FOR

BATTERIES, BULBS

KEYS & FOBS, PHONE REPAIR & MORE

25314 N. Lake Pleasant Pkwy 623-562-3444

Peoria

25314 N. Lake Pleasant Pkwy 623-562-3444

batteriesplus.com

BUSINESS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Business TheFoothillsFocus.com

@TheFoothills.Focus

For more Business News visit thefoothillsfocus.com

/TheFoothillsFocus

Bus driver shortage hampering school schedules BY MADISON PERALES Foothills Focus Staff Writer

early four-fifths (78.46%) of respondents from a HopSkipDrive survey flagged the bus driver shortage as a problem. The shortage is affecting families nationwide. The Deer Valley School District has been struggling to hire bus drivers since it started in-person classes. The problem started when nonessential employees, including bus drivers, were let go during the quarantine. The scarcity of school bus driv-

ers has always been a problem, but now it’s more difficult primarily due to the pandemic and the government supplying people with unemployment checks, according to Nick Franklin, the DVUSD transportation director. He added there are other concerns. “There are a lot of responsibilities being a driver,” Franklin said. “You have to be comfortable with operating a 30,000-pound vehicle. That’s just operating the vehicle, then you have potentially up to 84 kids behind you that you’re turning your back on.”

DID YOU KNOW?

We also install gas lines for BBQs!

Let us help you with ALL your plumbing and AC needs

15 YEARS IN BUSIN

ESS

100 OFF

623.582.1117 VALLEY WIDE SERVICE ROC #221431 #274551

A Family owned company

We are dual licensed to service both residential and commercial Like Our Facebook Page: facebook.com/westcoastplumbingandair

00*

A NEW WATER HEATER INSTALL OR GAS LINE INSTALL Expires November 30, 2021

Holly Weddle and daughter, Madison. (File photo) Split schedules and the risk of COVID-19 exposure are other concerns. The Deer Valley School District is trying to find employees under two categories, unemployed or stay-athome parents and retirees. “We can have the young group, that’s the mom in her thirties who

wants to work here and have the same days off as her kids,” Franklin said. “Then we have the retired groups that only want to work nine months, six hours a day.” The bus driver position at DVUSD offers a plethora of benefits such

�� BUS DRIVER �� 19

BUSINESS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

BUS DRIVER �� 18

as free training for the CDL, medical plan, eight paid holidays, along with 24 paid days off. “We actually have the highest benefit package as far as a comparable district around us,” Franklin said. While the drivers do have to work a split shift, the employee is guaranteed 30 hours a week. Because schools are lacking in drivers, this will cause a delay in arriving at school on time as well as arriving home later. “Right now, we have approximately 200 buses between our two yards, north and south,” Franklin said. “But as for the drivers, our number right now is at 107. Typically, we need to be at 122 drivers.” The driver’s route starts with taking students to high school, then middle school, and finishing with elementary school. The drivers typically transport around 9,000 students per day, according to Franklin. Driving that many people while

From

.95 9 1 /month

understaffed, can drastically slow down the transportation time. Fortunately, the DVUSD has parents who are understanding of the situation. DVUSD parent Holly Weddle realized, by advocating for additional bus stops, how difficult these times are and the need to hire more drivers. “Through that process, we just found that it is hard to find a good bus driver,” Weddle said. “Of course, you want someone who’s great with kids, but it’s also a tough position to fill because it’s part-time hours, even though bus drivers can still get benefits through the school, some people need more hours than that.” After Weddle recognized the magnitude of this issue, she and other parents formed a group to help the school district attract bus driver applicants. “We’ve gone around to different community centers and posted physical ads saying where to apply. Then we posted it using social me-

dia. Some of the parents take it to their local church or whatever organization, trying to get it out there that way,” Weddle said. The parent group and the school district have seen progress with more people showing interest in the driver position. But they still are struggling to find people who are willing to follow through with taking the job. “I definitely think that our efforts have gotten a lot of people interest-

ed and asking questions,” Weddle said. “But a couple of weeks ago, Deer Valley still had a need for 12 bus drivers.” While there’s a lot of responsibility and work that goes into becoming a bus driver, there’s a big misconception when thinking about taking on the job of a bus driver. Weddle said, “You need a lot of training that they will provide you, but you can go in with no experience, and still just go to the job.”

See MORE online!

www.TheFoothillsFocus.com

A Help Button Should Go Where You Go! To be truly independent, your personal emergency device needs to work on the go. MobileHelp Features:

Simple one-button operation Affordable service Ampliﬁed 2-way voice communication

24/7 access to U.S. based emergency operators GPS location detection Available Nationwide

Optional Fall Button™

The automatic fall detect pendant that works WHERE YOU GO!

Call for a FREE Brochure!

1-866-767-7803 THIS MONTH, GET OUR BEST OFFER EVER! FREE Equipment to use | FREE Shipping* | FREE Lockbox! *$19.95 is the monthly price of subscription to a MobileHelp Classic at home only system. There is a one-time $49.95 processing fee and $15 shipping fee required to subscribe to this plan. Equipment may vary as shown. System featured in photo above is the MobileHelp DUO available at an additional monthly cost. Equipment shown is included at no cost while actively subscribing to the service plan but must be returned upon cancellation of the service plan to avoid equipment charges. See terms and conditions for further details. Free ground shipping and free lockbox ($29.95 value) included with select service plan purchases. This offer is for new customers only and cannot be combined with any other offers. Service availability and access/coverage on the AT&T network is not available everywhere and at all times. Current GPS location may not always be available in every situation. MobileHelp is a registered trademark. Patented technology. MobileHelp is an FDA registered company. Fall Button does not detect 100% of falls. If able, users should always push their help button when they need assistance. Fall Button is not intended to replace a caregiver for users dealing with serious health issues. MHPN-00441 Rev. 1

FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Features TheFoothillsFocus.com

@TheFoothills.Focus

For more features visit thefoothillsfocus.com

/TheFoothillsFocus

Bruce Kirkwood talks no regrets, music and his debut album BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

ruce Kirkwood studied accounting at The University of Southern Mississippi but something else was tugging at his heartstrings. Music. “It was hard to pass up my passion,” Kirkwood said about pursuing a music career. “I knew I’d have a lot of regrets if I chose accounting.” A professional violinist, the North Phoenix resident released an EP, “Valley Vibes.” The Chicago native, who was raised in Gulfport, Mississippi, is experienced in playing a variety of styles and presenting a fusion of a classical and contemporary

sounds. Thanks to his talents, he has performed for various prestigious organizations and events such as the Houston Rockets, Iyanla Vanzant, Archdiocese of New York, National Urban League, Mayo Clinic, Essence Festival and Oprah Winfrey Network. With a collective social media following of over 100,000 people, he commits to using his global presence to motivate, empower and bring hope to the world. He does so through his weekly Facebook Live performances, and motivational content on social media. “This window of time is set aside weekly as an opportunity for people to step away

see KIRKWOOD page 21

Drive andSave Save DriveSafe Safe and

You loweryour your insurance billupping by upping your safe You could could lower insurance bill by your safe driving driving Call us today Drive game. Callgame. us today to learn abouttoourlearn Driveabout Sales our & Save app. Save up to 30%up or more! Sales & Save app. Save to 30% or more! Call me today. Call me today.

623-742-6866 Nanette McClelland-Miller, Agent nanettemiller.com

Fry’s Shopping Center: Next to Verizon and Tru Burger

Chicago-born violinist Bruce Kirkwood moved to North Phoenix to pursue a career in music. (Photos courtesy of Bruce Kirkwood)

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

KIRKWOOD From page 20

from the negativity of social media and join a personable environment where positive energy and motivation is generated and transferred freely throughout those present,” Kirkwood said. Kirkwood moved to Arizona to pursue his dream. “My reason for choosing Phoenix was because it had become my second home after making over a dozen trips to perform here during a two-year span,” he said. “It was a great choice, too, because the Valley is a better market for business and was near other great markets like Vegas and LA. My agent/manager lives here and that was a tremendous incentive.” His manager is Marion Kelly, the Mayo Clinic’s director of community engagement, department of public relations, and the co-founder of the Diversity Leadership Alliance. “We met in November 2018 at a conference in Mobile, Alabama,” Kirkwood said. “He was there representing the Mayo Clinic and I was there performing.” Kelly invited Kirkwood to perform in Phoenix, and the violinist fell in love with the desert, mountains and music scene. The pandemic and his subsequent slower schedule allowed him to pull off the move to Phoenix. “Coming from Biloxi, there are far more resources and connections here,” he said. “It was about time for me to move. COVID was slow, so it allowed me to go ahead and make that move. I have no regrets.” He still has ties to the south, however. He recently held a virtual benefit for New Orleans after it was hit by Hurricane Ida. Kirkwood wanted to “meet a need and be a part of the solution.” “So many people sit back, see it as entertainment or something to look at and say, ‘Wow,’” said Kirkwood, a Hurricane Katrina survivor. New Orleans is an hour from where he was raised. “Many people don’t take that next step and help people rebuild and recover. We’re raising funds for the Greater New Orleans Foundation. My heart goes out to the devastated residents of the birthplace of jazz, who are once again forced to rebuild their communities.” He’s still collecting money through GoFundMe and all funds will be donated di-

Bruce Kirkwood, who grew up in Gulfport, Mississippi, is raising money to help those suffering from the aftereffects of Hurricane Ida. Kirkwood survived Hurricane Katrina. (Photo

courtesy of Bruce Kirkwood)

rectly to the Greater New Orleans Foundation and allocated for purposes such as erecting temporary shelters, distributing food and water, providing medical care to the more than 4 million residents without power and other necessities. A violinist for about 20 years, Kirkwood is looking to Phoenix and Kelly to “catapult” him to where he wants to go. He yearns to continue to grow and make more connections. “I love the musician community around here,” Kirkwood said. “There are great musicians and quality music opportunities at a very high level here. It’s new to me to have that locally. I’m really getting plugged in and making those connections to take things to the next level. That’s happening so quickly.” Bruce Kirkwood

GoFundMe: https://bit.ly/KirkwoodIdaFundraiser

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

SPONSORED BY

The 17th Annual Veterans Parade would not be possible without the support of so many volunteers, business vendors, and our generous sponsors! GENERAL SPONSOR:

COLONEL SPONSORS:

LIEUTENANT COLONEL SPONSORS: MAJOR SPONSORS: CAPTAIN SPONSORS: PATRIOT SPONSORS:

Ave! Notary Bright Tutoring Copper State Pavement

Dark Horse Training Diamond Dance Works

Pigtails & Crewcuts - Happy Valley Safeway

FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Winning the race of your life CHURCH COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Pastor Ed Delph Foothills Focus Columnist

ecently, I turned 72 years old. My desire at this stage of my life is to finish strong. What is finishing strong? A bit of internet humor says, “Give a man a fish, and he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he will sit in a boat all day, drinking beer.” Now don’t get it wrong here. Beer isn’t the issue. Sitting in a boat all day, every day, to the exclusion of everything or everyone else is. After all, nothing is foolproof to a sufficiently talented fool. Foolish, all-consuming trivial pursuits divert us from finishing strong. Did you know that the Bible mentions more than 1,000 leaders? Dr. Robert Clinton, whose life is devoted to the art of leadership, has studied almost all these leaders. From among this group, he has narrowed the field down to 100 prominent leaders. But, first, he wanted to know how many finished strong

in their personal, family and church lives. After careful study, Dr. Clinton found the Bible gave enough information about only 49 of the 100 leaders to determine how they finished. So, he broke these leaders into four groups: 1) cut off early, 2) finished poorly, 3) finished so-so, 4) finished well. You may or may not recognize some of the names, but let’s try to understand what these four basic categories of finishing life represent for us. In his book “Finishing Strong,” author Steve Farrar quotes Dr. Clinton’s results: “Cut off early means that they were taken out of leadership by assassinations, killed in battle, prophetically denounced or overthrown.” Those cut off early include Abimelech, Absalom, Ahab and Josiah. Some of these leaders were good, but most were terrible. Most have a rather tragic story that explains their finish. Farrar goes on to explain the other three categories. “Finished poorly means they were going downhill spiritually or in their competency during the latter part of their

lives. Typical examples of finishing weak were Gideon, Eli or Solomon. In other words, these leaders were barely able to crawl across the finish line. Either that or they were carried across the finish line. “Finished so-so means they did not do what they could have or should have done. They didn’t complete what God had for them to do. “They were pretty good guys like David, Jehoshaphat or Hezekiah, but they didn’t finish strong. They were in the middle of the pack. “Finished well means they were walking with God at the end of their lives. They were strong in faith, family, and community. “Examples are Abraham, Job, Joseph, Joshua, Caleb, Samuel, Elijah, Daniel, John, Paul, and Peter to name a few.” This category is where we hope to be at the end of our life, right? The first three groups of leaders were as gifted and called as the fourth group, but why didn’t they finish well? Farrar observes, “All of these leaders were gifted, and all had very impressive strengths. So how come they didn’t finish strong? The answer is this. They all didn’t finish strong because they didn’t survive the ambushes in life. Getting through life’s ambushes is what separates the professionals from the amateurs. Men and women who get through the ambushes are generally the ones who anticipate the ambushes.” This thought is worthy of our consideration. Consider King Solomon. Even though he had more wisdom than anyone else in his generation, he didn’t anticipate some ancient and potent ambushes. What were the ambushes? Too many women ambushed him. Money ambushed him. A neglected family ambushed him. Ouch! Many leaders have suffered the shipwreck of betrayal and sex, extreme love of money, and so busy leading that they didn’t invest time with their families. There were consequences to those ambushes. Solomon had more than 700 wives and 300 concubines. Farrar says, “No wonder he didn’t finish strong. He was exhausted.” Solomon had so much money that there was silver lying on the streets of Jerusalem. Solomon’s wives turned his heart against the Lord, and his son Rehoboam split the nation

of Israel shortly after Solomon died. I get the feeling Solomon didn’t spend much time with his son. Let me add the ambush of pride and status in Solomon’s life. A good self-image is one thing. Excessive pride is another. The 19th century Scottish philosopher Thomas Carlyle said, “The greatest fault is to be conscious of none.” As a result, experts often end up as “ex-spurts.” Let’s get smart. There are ambushes everywhere. Life is like a race. It’s how well you finish life that counts. In a football or rugby game, a team can have a terrible first half but play strong in the second half. Some teams start strong, have horrible second or third quarters, and then win in the fourth quarter. The same is true in life. If you are living, and I assume you are or wouldn’t be reading this column, even those whose life has been so-so in the first, second or third quarter can finish strong in the fourth quarter. Remember, you are not racing others so much as you’re racing yourself. It’s your race to win or lose. God is always there to help you finish. While life’s ambushes may open the door to calamity, God’s grace closes the door. So, let us live in such a way that when we die, even the undertaker will be sorry! Ed Delph is a noted author of 10 books, as well as a pastor, teacher, former business owner and speaker. Ed has traveled extensively, having been to more than 100 countries. He is president of NationStrategy, a nonpro�it organization involved in uplifting and transforming communities worldwide. For more information, see nationstrategy. com. Ed may be contacted at nationstrategy@cs.com.

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Hidden in the Hills artist studio tour returns BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

idden in the Hills is celebrating its silver anniversary the last two weekends of November with free, self-guided tours featuring 191 artists at 45 private

studios in the Desert Foothills communities. Coordinated by the nonprofit Sonoran Arts League, the event is Friday, November 19, to Sunday, November 21, as well as Friday, Novem-

see ARTIST page 26

FREEDOM. TO BE YOU. If you think oxygen therapy means slowing down, it’s time for a welcome breath of fresh air. Introducing the Inogen One family of portable oxygen systems. With no need for bulky tanks, each concentrator is designed to keep you active via Inogen’s Intelligent Delivery Technology.® Hours of quiet and consistent oxygen flow on a long-lasting battery charge enabling freedom of movement, whether at home or on the road. Every Inogen One meets FAA requirements for travel ensuring the freedom to be you. No heavy oxygen tanks Ultra quiet operation Lightweight and easy to use Safe for car and air travel Full range of options and accessories • FDA approved and clinically validated • • • • •

Call 1-844-201-2758 for a free consultation and info guide. Plein air painter Michele Corsini paints a giant agave in Mexico. (Photo courtesy of Sonoran Arts League)

MKT-P0253

FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

ARTIST From page 25

ber 26, to Sunday, November 28.

Londoner enthralled by desert landscape Michele Corsini has always loved to create. She was born in London and was influenced, in part, by her Italian father, who was a skilled mosaic craftsman. She “ran away” to art college in 1983 and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in fine arts, painting, from St. Martin’s School of Art in London in 1987. Then, in 1988, she joined her high school friend, Mark De Simone, in a true adventure. They moved to the United States. “I ran away again, this time to Phoenix,” she said. “And upon arriving with Mark, my first thought was, ‘What was this land?’ I was enthralled by the harsh beauty of the desert landscape. I was only in my 20s, and here I was in this wonderland of majestic landscapes, harsh vegetation and resilient animals. It

was truly an adventure like no other.” She and Mark spent much of their first year in the United States exploring the Southwest and Mexico. They bought an old Volkswagen bus and traveled to remote areas to hike and mountain bike. “In those early years, we would brew our own dark beer and make our own whole-grain bread because we couldn’t find it in Phoenix,” Corsini recalls. Eventually the two good friends fell in love, married, and had three children. Early in their marriage, they bought 18 acres by Lake Pleasant and began learning about sustainable living systems. They built a straw bale house on the western edge of Cave Creek. It’s been their home for 21 years. “America has been very good to us,” she said. “It has been a liberating experience, and we have learned that there are huge opportunities if you can prove yourself.” Corsini’s career has evolved since she moved to America. She had a suc-

1 AY 2 0 2 OCRTS.DAY – SATURD

.M. P 9 / 7

Mixed-media collage artist Mimi Damrauer works in her studio. (Photo courtesy of Sonoran Arts League)

THU

THURSDAY / OCTOBER 28

NEON CIRCUS

Brooks & Dunn Tribute FRIDAY / OCTOBER 29

PEOPLE WHO COULD FLY

Indie Pop

SATURDAY / OCTOBER 30

JALEO

Latin

www.GlendaleAZ.com/LiveAtMurphyPark

cessful faux finishing business in the 1990s, and she indulged in elaborate projects, including byzantine mosaic murals, large-scale commissioned oils and sophisticated wall finishes. She scaled back on her business when she had her children, but her passion for painting was reignited when she began working on small plein air pieces in 2011. “I had been volunteering in the school, but I wanted to get back to painting,” she said. “I worked out a schedule where I would drop my kids off at school, go paint outside, and then pick them up. I love the immediacy of the format, and over this time period, I have honed my skills. I’ll set up anywhere a scene entices me — on the side of the road, balancing on rocks, in a wash or on a rooftop.”

The Sonoran Desert and central Mexico inspired Corsini. Years ago, she and her husband bought a second home in Guanajuato, a city known for its colonial architecture. “We fell in love with it because it reminds us of Europe,” she said. “We spend our summers there because it is a higher elevation and much cooler. Our yard is full of giant agaves and other beautiful plants and trees that I love to paint.” Corsini’s work ranges from largescale oil paintings and charcoal drawings to small, soft pastel plein air paintings and abstract mixed-media pieces. “I very much see my work, over the years, as a coming back to familiar themes, but every time with new eyes

see ARTIST page 27

FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

ARTIST From page 26

paper fabric that she paints and sews together into a whimsical or abstract design. Her vibrant pieces often resemble primitive folk art. Damrauer grew up in Ohio surrounded by creativity. She credits her mother for teaching her and her sisters about art and cooking. By age 9, she was teaching herself how to sew at home and taking art lessons at the Toledo Museum of Art. “The inklings of a business were planted,” recalls Damrauer, a North Phoenix resident. “That lead to my whimsical style of painting, stitching, drawing and hand-cut wobbly designs.” The self-taught artist moved to Arizona in 2016 and is inspired by her surroundings, including everything from sidewalk cracks to scenery from road trips. Recently, she felt the need to get back to basics and simplicity. “As I go through my life, I appreciate how to edit and make my life less complicated. I see objects in their simplest forms, and my style is

and expertise. The wonder of coming to this desert land from a very tame, conquered landscape has never been lost on me. That our trees and plants can survive this harsh environment and still sing with color every spring is a marvel. I love to celebrate that and probably always will,” she said. During Hidden in the Hills, Corsini will exhibit her new work at Judy Paxton Bruce’s Studio No. 4 in Cave Creek. And her daughter, Anna Lucia De Simone, will exhibit watercolor paintings during the event at Youth Art Studio No. 1, at the Sonoran Arts League’s Center for the Arts in Stagecoach Village.

Pivoting to paper collage during pandemic Mimi Damrauer returns to Hidden in the Hills for her fifth year, energized by her time in her studio. The talented mixed-media collage artist creates large, bold, colorful wall art from small, hand-painted pieces of

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

BUSY LIFE?

Mixed-media collage artist Mimi Damrauer works in her studio. (Photo courtesy of Sonoran Arts League) all about editing what I see down to recognizable images,” she said. “I am simply striving for good design. In a world that can be so busy and over-

whelming, I hope that my artworks are pleasing and joyful to look at.”

see ARTIST page 28

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

ANY 5 ROOMS

Up to 450 sq. ft. total

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 • PNPOneCareCleaning@cox.net

AZ TITLE & REGISTRATIONS No need for an Appointment JUST WALK IN!

Authorized MVD Service Provider

FOR ALL YOUR MOTOR VEHICLE SERVICES

• Registration Renewals • Title Transfer • Duplicate Titles • Permits • OHV Tabs • Specialty Plates • Abandon Vehicle Inspections • Bonded Titles • Mobile Level 1 Inspections

BRING IN AD FOR DISCOUNT

10%

DISCOUNT

off convenience fees

Mon-Fri 9:30am-6:00pm Sat/Sun - Closed

iPhone/Android Scan

623-582-1443 | 301 W. DEER VALLEY RD. #10 250 ft. east of emissions station

Learn how to talk to your kids about marijuana. This publication was made possible by SAMSHA Grant number 6B08TI083044-01. The views expressed in these materials do not necessarily reflect the official policies or contractual requirements of the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) or the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. 24051 AHCCCS_Newsprint_SlowBrain_4-9x4-9.indd 1

9/20/21 2:50 PM

FEATURES

ARTIST From page 27

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound, positive effect on her work, as it forced her to spend more time in her studio. “I was ready for a change, and during the lockdown, I tried to make the best of the situation by taking classes online, exploring new techniques and just playing,” she said. “I had so much fun that I developed a completely new technique of making my own medium to sew, which I call paper fabric.” Damrauer experimented with acrylic paint on a strong construction-like paper and created fabric to sew on a sewing machine. She cleaned out her studio, which was full of fabric from all over the world, and she spent time learning more about the tools she had accumulated over the years. She even took the time to create her own tools and homemade stamps. “My hand-designed papers are painted, stamped and resisted to get

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

a wide variety of color and designs,” she explains. “Each piece of paper has at least two to four layers of colors.” She adds that she uses stamps to pull color and shapes out or put lines and squiggles back in. She then cuts the paper into 3-inch squares to create her background. “I like the scale of that, and I find it to be fun because it’s always changing. There is always something interesting to look at in every square,” she said. With dozens of hand-painted paper squares to choose from, she then begins to sew. “I am able to control the color and shading as I build my final design,” she said. “The end result is a simple design that is more complicated when you look at the composition.” When her designs are finished, she mounts them on wood panels and applies varnish with sun protection. Her obsession is “Arizona Barnyard,” which includes animals and

scenery that she is surrounded by — horses, chickens, cactus and mountains. She also recently added Matisse-inspired shapes to create abstract pieces. During Hidden in the Hills, Damrauer will exhibit her new work at Sandy Pendleton’s Studio No. 21 in Cave Creek. “I believe my work resonates with others because it is happy, bright and simplistic. I’m having so much fun creating my designs,” she said. “I just want to share that joy with others.” Hidden in the Hills

WHEN: Friday, November 19, to Sunday, November 21; and Friday, November 26, to Sunday, November 28 WHERE: Desert Foothills communities COST: Free admission INFO: hiddeninthehills.org

“Cactus - Organ Pipe” by mixed-media collage artist Mimi Damrauer. (Photo courtesy of

Sonoran Arts League)

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. • All vehicle accidents/wrongful death 42104 N. Venture Drive, Suite A 118, Anthem, AZ 85086

623-551-9366 CarrollLawFirm.com

PeoriaTimes_Jan2021.pdf

1/25/21

3:08 PM

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

CMY

FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Carol Brook: You can’t use up creativity BY SHEA STANFIELD Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

he poet Maya Angelou observed, “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” Artist Carol Brook discovered this phenomenon as a youngster growing up in small-town Nebraska. Brook discovered “art” when she created doll clothes which, in turn, led to her designing her own wardrobe. “In high school, I based my clothing designs on photos I saw in magazines,” Brook said. “We could not get the latest styles from off the rack where we lived.” Brook gained a reputation among her peers for creating anything she saw or imagined. She graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a degree in teaching and photojournalism. Following her creative intuition, she

see BROOK page 31

“Reclining Lady,” by Carol Brook

Cool Cats

Keep it

Comfortable HEATING • COOLING • INDOOR AIR QUALITY

602-789-3000

Feel the

Comfort You’ve Been

Missing!

info@azperfectcomfort.com www.azperfectcomfort.com

25 OFF on ANY REPAIR

Not valid with other offers or promotions, one coupon per person.

ROBIN & JOHN MCCOMBS VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED ROC#300933 • BONDED & INSURED

“Whispers in the Dark,” by Carol Brook

L S S!

FEATURES

RELEVANCE & RELATIONSHIPS RIGOR, RELEVANCE & RELATIONSHIPS ALLLL RIGOR, RIGOR, RELEVANCE & RELATIONSHIPS M L L S A A BROOK From page 30 “The has the longevity Mleather SM S S S LAASonly andCbeauty artisan-creLASS L ESS!canansustain,” C C launched a career S in!the hospitality indus- atedSproduct Z I S! fibers of she IZEoriginal SIZE try in Nebraska and crisscrossed the Unit- said. S “The the THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

ed States several times, working for major hotel companies and independent resorts. “I found a variety of opportunities during this time to push my limits on creativity in business and personal projects, as well as assisting with enrichment events at my son’s school,” Brook said. In 1992, she moved to Scottsdale, where she found a vibrant community of creatives and ample opportunities to attend arts-related events. The turning point came via a fortune cookie message just before her 2019 retirement. “A ship in the harbor is safe, but that’s not why ships are built,” Brook said. She pivoted and spent her time working with leather and fiber arts in her second career. “Today, I work with a variety of leathers and fiber in designing my artwork, but my passion is sculpted free-form leather vessels,” she said. Her pieces are created from vegetable-tanned leather.

animal hide add to its character making each piece a unique individual with the addition of dyes, stains and paints.” Brook is a member of the Sonoran Arts League and exhibits several times a year in league-sponsored shows and events. She and her husband, Mel, also an artist, work from their Scottsdale home studio, known as Brook Art Studio. They are participating in the annual Hidden in the Hills Studio Tour in November. For more information, visit sonoranartsleague.org. Brook’s artwork may be viewed on Facebook @BrookArtStudio. Brook Art Studio accepts private viewing appointments. For more information, email Brook on carol.melbrook@ gmail.com.

RIGOR, RELEVANCE & RELATIONSHIPS Schedule a tour! Schedule a tour! Schedule aCampus tour! Call 623-551-5083 for K-5 Campus or 623-466-8187 for 6-12

“Peaceful Night,” by Carol Brook

RIGOR, RELEVANCE, AND RELATIONSHIPS

Call 623-551-5083 for K-5 Campus or 623-466-8187 6-12 Campus Call 623-551-5083 for K-5Visit Campus or 623-466-8187 for 6-12 Campus orfor schedule online. caurusacademy.org/schedule-a-tour or schedule online. Visit caurusacademy.org/schedule-a-tour or schedule online. Visit caurusacademy.org/schedule-a-tour

TUITION TUITION FREE! TUITION FREE! FREE! PUBLIC CHARTER PUBLIC PUBLIC CHARTER CHARTER SCHOOL SCHOOL K–12 SCHOOL K–12 K–12 • New! State-of-the Art • New! State-of-the Art Middle/High School Middle/High School Classroom & Gym Facilities Classroom & Gym Facilities • Kindergarten–2nd Grade: • Kindergarten–2nd Grade: • Kindergarten–2nd Grade: 14:1 Student to Staff Ratio 14:1 Student to Staff Ratio 14:1 Student to Staff Ratio • West-Mec & Paradise Valley • West-Mec & Paradise Valley • West-Mec & Paradise Valley K-5 Campus Location Community College Dual Community College Dual Community College Dual 41900 N. 42nd Ave. Enrollment Partnerships Enrollment Partnerships Anthem, AZ 85086 Enrollment Partnerships 623-551-5083 • High School HonorsSchedule Courses a tour! • High School Honors Courses • High School Honors Courses Call 623-551-5083 for K-5 Campus or 623-466-8187 for 6-12 Campus • Diverse & Inclusive or schedule online. Visit caurusacademy.org/schedule-a-tour Middle/High School • Diverse & Inclusive • Diverse & Inclusive Extracurriculars Campus Location Call 623-551-5083 for K-5 Campus or Extracurriculars Extracurriculars 623-466-8187 for 6-12 Campus 44111 N. 43rd Ave. • Varsity Athletics orAZ scheule Phoenix, 85087online. Visit • Varsity Athletics www.caurusacademy.org • Varsity Athletics caurusacademy.org/schedule-a-tour • New! State-of-the Art Middle/High School Classroom & Gym Facilities

N FREE!

Schedule a tour!

www.caurusacademy.org

623-466-8187 www.caurusacademy.org

K-5 Campus Location K-5 Campus Location 41900 N. 42nd Ave. 41900 N.AZ 42nd Ave. Anthem, 85086 Anthem, AZ 85086 623-551-5083

623-551-5083

Middle/High School Middle/High School Campus Location Campus Location 44111 N. 43rd Ave. 44111 N.AZ 43rd Ave. Phoenix, 85087 Phoenix, AZ 85087 623-466-8187

623-466-8187

FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Gail Haire: Perfection can be achieved BY SHEA STANFIELD Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

uthor Antoine de Saint-Exupery observed, “Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add but nothing left to take away.” It parallels artist Gail Haire’s journey into the land of fine art painting that started in Springfield, Illinois. Raised in an artistic family, Haire was influenced by them and her art instructors/coaches she has worked with as an adult. “My first career was business-to-business sales,” she said. “Happily, painting is my second career. “It started with a strong desire to find out if I had any creative ability. I began looking for art instructors and was fortunate to find artists that were equally talented in instruction. I took workshops and individual lessons for several years. This taught me to ‘see,’ devel-

oping my realism painting style with an understanding of color, composition and form.” She started with oils and expanded into watercolor. She moved to Arizona to be with family. “I visited often and always knew I would eventually retire here,” said Haire, who lived here for a few years before retiring. Upon arriving in her new Scottsdale home, Haire joined the Cave Creekbased Sonoran Arts League. League members get together weekly for breakfast to share their work, ideas, resources and insights. Here, Haire was inspired to move into a more interpretive style in her work. She explains the process for one of her pieces. “I was reviewing pictures from a hike I did in the Grand Canyon,” she said. “I

see HAIRE page 34

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 Gail Haire shows off one of her works on display. (Photo courtesy of Gail Haire)

FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Arizona Musicfest brings the likes of Kenny G and Sergio Mendes to town BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

rizona Musicfest unveiled its starry lineup of exceptional artists to celebrate the return of live indoor concerts in North Scottsdale. Following the challenges and dis-

appointments of last season, Musicfest has regrouped and renewed its commitment to bringing the joy of music. In its largest season, Musicfest will produce 30 concerts between November and April. “As our community emerges from the difficulties of the last year, we

Bria Skonberg will perform November 15 at La Casa de Cristo Church. (Submitted photo)

are honored to engage and entertain audiences with exceptional performances that will uplift and reunite friends, neighbors and artists around our shared love of music,” said Allan Naplan, Arizona Musicfest’s executive and producing director. Featured artists include Paul Anka, Bernadette Peters, Kenny G, LeAnn

Rimes, Sergio Mendes, Sarah Chang and Emanuel Ax, as well as Pink Martini, Broadway’s John Lloyd Young and the Texas Tenors. The season also features the Festival Orchestra, comprised of musicians from some of the nation’s finest orchestras. For tickets, call 480-422-8449 or visit azmusicfest.org.

FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

“Dusk,” by Gail Haire. (Photo courtesy of Gail Haire)

HAIRE From page 32

found I was drawn to the simplicity of the lines, shapes and the contrasts of light and shadow.” Bringing the subjects to their most basic shapes and forms became the moti-

“Opposites Attract,” by Gail Haire. (Photo courtesy of Gail Haire) vation for Haire’s work. Haire’s oil paintings could be interpreted as a modern-day variation of the iconic Works Progress Administration (WPA) National Park silkscreen series of the 1930 and 1940s — simple, elegant lines, masterfully com-

posed, brilliantly colored and breathtakingly beautiful. The peace they bring to the environment for dreaming is unmatched. Her watercolors are stunning for their soft shapes, gradual shadows and subtle detail.

Haire’s work may be experienced firsthand at On The Edge Gallery in Scottsdale, which provides an opportunity to purchase a piece for your collection. For more information, visit gailhaireart. com, scroll through the available work, enjoy the contrasting styles.

Kendallwood Design Inc Home Remodel Specialists

Kitchen • Bath • Countertops • Tile • Backsplash

602-252-3844

www.Kendallwoods.com Your news 24/7

www.TheFoothillsFocus.com

BEFORE

YOUTH

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Youth TheFoothillsFocus.com

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

/TheFoothillsFocus

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

number of local students at Biola University in La Mirada, California, made the dean’s list in the spring. They are: • Nicole Burleson of Phoenix, majoring in cinema and media arts • Megan Gauharou of Phoenix, majoring in human biology • Noah Hendricks of Phoenix, majoring in psychology

See MORE news online!

• Gabriella Jenkins of Anthem, majoring in Biological Science • Adam Pigott of Cave Creek, majoring in journalism and integrated media • Cosette Rijke of Phoenix, majoring in history YOUTH • Hannah Thigpen of Phoenix, majoring in design Biola students are placed on the dean’s list after earning a GPA of 3.6 or higher while enrolled in 12 or more

www.TheFoothillsFocus.com

credits and whose cumulative GPA is at least 3.2. “Inclusion in Biola University’s dean’s list is reserved for students who demonstrate exceptional performance in their academic studies. This honor signifies hard work, engagement, and investment in scholarship,” said Tamara Anderson, associate provost of academic effectiveness and administration. “These attributes are the building blocks of continued success, not only in the classroom, but in the workplace and in the student’s personal lives.

We celebrate these students and their achievement, looking forward to their future accomplishments.” Biola University is a nationally ranked Christian university in Southern California. Shane Stratfold of Anthem has been accepted for enrollment at Palmer College of Chiropractic in Port Orange, Florida. Palmer College of Chiropractic, the first and largest college in the chiropractic profession, has campuses in Davenport, Iowa; San Jose, California, and Port Orange, Florida.

Group Learning • Consistently A-Rated School Competitive Sports Program • Full Inclusion Classrooms Small Class Size • Kindergarten - High School To enroll scan the QR code

Knowing and Growing CORE KNOWLEDGE SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION HULAFROG’S MOST LOVED CHARTER SCHOOL “A” RATED BY THE DEPT OF ED 8 YEARS RUNNING

w w w.rideglineacademy.org

623-223-1335

YOUTH

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Schools host Paloma Community Park’s �irst race

The men’s teams start their race at Paloma Community Park. It was the facility’s first race. (Photo by David McBee)

The Foothills Focus

Online at www.TheFoothillsFocus.com

BY GEORGE ROUSE Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

unners from 17 Great Hearts Middle School, BASIS charter schools and other smaller organizations’ cross-country teams raced through Paloma Community Park in Peoria recently, thanks to a bevy of coaches, parents and volunteers. The athletes christened the terrain at 7 a.m. when they dashed out of the starting gate on the 1.82-mile run

coordinated by Peoria’s Recreation Superintendent, Kevin Naughton; Glendale Prep’s coach Steven Whetstine; and Anthem Prep’s coach Jamie Hays. For Paloma Park’s first race, the coaches, parents and volunteers used 500 brightly colored cones to delineate a cross-country course out of multiuse fields, a fishpond trail and sidewalks. The men’s team from Glendale Prep placed first (52 points) and Benja-

min Franklin second (58 points). The women’s team from Veritas Prep (42 points) took the top spot with Scottsdale Prep (67 points) just behind. “I wish all of our events were like this event held in a beautiful park with such a great course for our athletes,” said Scottsdale Prep coach Jackie Martz. The hosting teams of Glendale and Anthem preparatory academies thank the city of Peoria for their hospitality.

YOUTH

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

New River Kiwanis Club to host annual Trunk or Treat event BY JORDAN HOUSTON Foothills Focus Staff Writer

he Kiwanis Club of New River is inviting the public to bring their best costumes and appetites for its annual Trunk or Treat this Halloween. The club, which manages the New River Kiwanis Community Park and Equestrian Center, is hosting the spooktacular bash from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 30, at the park located at 48606 N. 17th Avenue. Whether participants choose to attend to decorate their trunks and pass out candy or simply join to indulge in the free treats – the snack-filled event is designed for fun for all ages, according to New River Kiwanis President Ed Taylor. He added that the club is anticipating a large turnout this year, considering roughly 2,000 visitors and between 50-to-70 trunks participated in 2020. “It’s a chance to come together and use the park that belongs to them also,” Taylor said. “Since we’re in a rural area, going door-to-door trick or treating isn’t really an option.” The president is encouraging those who would like to offer candy to arrive earlier rather than later in order to snag a parking spot before the lot fills. Candy-givers are given free range to decorate their trunks however they see fit and administer candies of their choosing. “If you want to park and hand out candy, get there early,” Taylor noted. “The earlier the better because once we have the slots filled up, there is no room for everybody else.” Also at the venue will be several vendors and food trucks, a petting zoo, live DJ music, and a potential hayride, Taylor added. New River Kiwanis is dedicated to up-keeping and preserving its 80-acre Park, which includes a riding arena, warmup arena, three ball fields, a playground, ramadas, picnic grounds, a clubhouse and a Senior Center. The club is a member in

good standing with Kiwanis International, a global organization of members dedicated to serving the children of the world, its website reads. Surrounded by State Trust Land, the New River Kiwanis Community Park is open to the public from dawn to dusk year-round and “provides exceptional access to the Maricopa Trail Loop and miles of trails for hiking, biking and equestrian use,” according to a press release. The park officially opened in the fall of 1998 and was named Larkyn Memorial arena after Larkyn Dwyer, who lost her life on TWA Flight 800 on July 17, 1996. The Kiwanis Club of New River was chartered as one of 7,700 clubs in 80 countries in 1987, Taylor shared. It strives to achieve its motto of “Serving the Children of the World” by assisting schools

and children locally and worldwide, maintaining and improving the Kiwanis community park and arena and hosting community groups and events – including the Trunk or Treat event. Taylor expressed he is looking forward to bringing the community together in a larger effort to raise awareness about the importance of the park. “[I’m looking forward to] just the kids and the families using the park,” he shared. “It’s kind of a well-kept secret and it’s been coming back into its own.” “We always looking for volunteers,” Taylor added. For more information about the New River Kiwanis Club Trunk or Treat, visit its website at newriverkiwanis.org/News. To learn more about the International Kiwanis Club, head over to kiwanis.org/.

ASK US HOW TO GET THE

AMAZING iPHONE® 11 FOR $0 WHEN YOU SWITCH TO AT&T

Find out how to get our most popular phones, call now!

855-401-1184

CLASSIFIEDS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

To place an ad: 480-898-6465 class@timespublications.com Employment General Northwest Exterminating is Now Hiring Pest Technicians/Laborers in Phoenix and Tucson. NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED. Call 520-631-5953.

Auto Engine Machinist

American Engines Only. Experience Required. References Needed. Full Time or Part Time. Email Resume to:

acct.phxengine @gmail.com

Employment General Auto Engine Machinist - Head & Boring Bar Depts. American Engines Only, Chevy & Ford. Must Have 5-10 Years’ Experience. References Needed. FT or PT Apply/Send Resume acct.phxengine @gmail.com or 602-866-8044 or 21632 N 7th Ave, Ste 1, Phoenix, AZ

Classifieds 480-898-6465

Commerical/Industrial/Retail

thefoothillsfocus.com Air Conditioning/Heating

Drywall

Carpet, Tile-Grout, & Air Duct Cleaning AZ PERFECT COMFORT A/C & Heating Services

Please recycle me.

Cleaning Services

DONALDSON DRYWALL

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

Your newspaper. Your community. Your planet.

Deadline: Wednesday at 5pm for the following Wednesday

Info@azperfect comfort.com

(602)789-3000 azperfectcomfort.com

Employment General

Commercial & Residential Housecleaning

FREE ESTIMATES

www.pnponecarecleaning.com

Call Today/Clean Today

602.550.7732

Licensed/Bonded/Insured

Add a Background Color to Your Ad! Classifieds 480-898-6465

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

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

Employment General

Now Hiring The legendary Rock Springs Café is

NOW HIRING FOR ALL POSITIONS*! Lead Host and Assistant to the Manager Lead Pastry Baker Bussers - $15 – 20 per hour with tips Servers - $25 – 30 per hour with tips (average) Line Cooks – Flexible Hours

New Hire Bonus

Rock Springs Café is located just 15 minutes north of Anthem – Exit 242. *Signing CASH BONUS at the end of 30 days employment

Submit resumes to: rockspringscafe@gmail.com

CLASSIFIEDS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Furniture/Refinishing/Upholstery

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

J&B Furniture CONSIGNMENT

WE SELL NEW and GENTLY USED FURNITURE & HOME DECOR

BEST PRICES ON MATTRESS SETS Tuesday – Saturday 10am - 5pm Sunday & Monday Closed 42407 N. Vision Way – Anthem, AZ

623.551.4135

Justin Simons, Agent 3655 W Anthem Way, Anthem, AZ 85086

623-551-3700

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

Landscape/Maintenance

Plumbing

North Valley Landscaping

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

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

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

480-235-6101

Irrigation

& Landscape est. 2002 ~ Anthem, Arizona

Install • Repair • Replace

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

Licensed • Bonded • Insured COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL

602.319.1089

Call Classifieds 480-898-6465

Roofing

PHILLIPS

www.aboveandbeyondglass.com ROC 233846 & ROC 236899

Sprinkler Repair Landscaping & More!

Landscape/Maintenance Announcements

Backhoe • Hammer Hoe • Grade Tractor 1,000 Gallon Water Wagon • Dump Trailer Septic Install & Repair (Lic. #276732) Tree Brush and Cactus Removal Road/Driveway Repair & Maintenance Utility Trenching & Plumbing Construction Cleanup Material Screening

FREE ESTIMATES • 623-465-2546 • Custom Design • Water Feature • Container/Pot Gardens • Fireplaces & BBQs • Patio & Walls • Irrigation Specialists • Tree Trim/Removal • Bi-weekly/Monthly

Licensed, Bonded & Insured • ROC #166390

Family Owned and Operated 43 Years Experience in Arizona

623-873-1626 Free Estimates Monday through Saturday

623-203-7717

PREMIER LANDSCAPING & GARDENING

81% of our readers, read the Classifieds!

COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

ROC#215280 • Custom Glass • Shower Doors & Enclosures • Window Glass Replacement • Custom Mirrors • Glass Table Tops & Shelves

HOME FOR RENT? Place it here!

ROOFING LLC

Irrigation

Glass/Mirror

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

No Job Too Big or Small

Residential & Commercial

602-330-6965

DUKES EXCAVATING

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

Meetings/Events?

Get Free notices in the Classifieds!

Submit to ecota@timespublications.com

Licensed 2006 ROC 223367 Bonded Insured

PhillipsRoofing.org PhillipsRoofing@cox.net Your Ad can go ONLINE ANY Day! Call to place your ad online! Classifieds 480-898-6465

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | OCTOBER 27, 2021

Our Customers are Happy they bought last year...

$$$$ $$$

As a Premier

Dealer,

$ 2020

ProSkill Services has the Equipment you want!

2021

2022

By this time next year, We expect you will be too.

FREE UPGRADE

Have you been delaying the inevitable?

If yes, it’s Time to Replace!

on 0% Financing Offers 36 months

48 months

60 months

72 months

Call or Text to Schedule an Appointment

AIR

CONDITIONING

•

ELECTRICAL

•

PLUMBING

•

WATER

TREATMENT