The Foothills Focus - Zone 1 - 11.25.2020 by Times Media Group

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

Pet Supplies Plus

M Virtual Fitness

PAGE 20

PAGE 21

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

TheFoothillsFocus.com

INSIDE

This Week

FREE ($1 OUTSIDE OF CAVE CREEK)

Wednesday, November 25, 2020

Leigh Zydonik named new food bank director BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

NEWS .........................5

Anthem Starbucks to reopen after COVID-19 diagnosis

ith Leigh Zydonik’s new position as executive director of Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center, the Ohio native feels she’s accomplished something. “I have now completed all the ‘A’ states,” Zydonik said about Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas and Arizona. Seriously, more than that, she feels she’s giving back to the community. Zydonik will oversee the daily operations of the food bank’s headquarters and off-

see ZYDONIK page 12

Leigh Zydonik said safety nets like the Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center are important in times like these. (Photo courtesy Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center)

FEATURES ......23

Cave Creek council votes to hire temporary �ire chief

YOUTH ...........25

BY SARAH DONAHUE Foothills Focus Staff Writer

Tucson comic coming to Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy

Dance studio invites youth to perform in Anthem showcase

OPINION ................... 16 BUSINESS ................. 20 FEATURES ................ 22 YOUTH ...................... 25 CLASSIFIEDS ............ 29 Zone

fter two brush fires ravaged through Cave Creek residents’ homes, cars and barns last May, leaving behind major damage and a six-digit bill to pay to nearby municipalities, the town realized it needed a solid firefighting strategy to protect its town. To prevent another tragedy, the town council voted unanimously at the November 16 meeting to approve an intergovernmental agreement between the

Expires 12/31/2020

town of Cave Creek and the city of Scottsdale for deputy fire chief assistance and to help the town in exploring options for establishing contemporary fire services. The city of Scottsdale is going to, in essence, loan Deputy Fire Chief Jim Ford to Cave Creek for at least a year. In exchange for Ford’s services, the town of Cave Creek will pay for his current salary and benefits, which is $170,958.52. Ford was instrumental in the creation of the Scottsdale Fire Department. “We need a fire expert who’s done this before who can help us through the

steps of developing the plan for the interim, shorter term and longer term and how we implement it,” Town Manager Carrie Dyrek said before the vote. Ford will weigh in on important fire-service-establishing decisions like the necessary number of staff members, equipment and facilities as well as where the facilities will be placed, Dyrek said, adding that he will participate in budget requirements. The fire chief deputy will work with

see COUNCIL page 4

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

7 Things You Must Know Before Putting Your Home Up for Sale in Todays Market Scottsdale - A new report has just been released which reveals 7 costly mistakes that most homeowners make when selling their home, and a 9 Step System that can help you sell your home fast and for the most amount of money. This industry report shows clearly how the traditional ways of selling homes have become increasingly less and less effective in today’s market. The fact of the matter is that fully three quarters of homesellers don’t get what they want for their homes and become disillusioned and - worse financially disadvantaged when they put their homes on the market.

As this report uncovers, most homesellers make 7 deadly mistakes that cost them literally thousands of dollars. The good news is that each and every one of these mistakes is entirely preventable. In answer to this issue, industry insiders have prepared a free special report entitled “The 9 Step System to Get Your Home Sold Fast and For Top Dollar”. To order a FREE Special Report, visit www.topsalehomesellerkit.com. Get your free special report NOW to find out how you can get the most money for your home.

Just listed in Scottsdale

Lion Real Estate Group Mortgage Rate Board

5 Parcels sold as 1

$2,650,000 2.625% - CONV 30 YR FIXED (2.788% APR) The 85085 Real Estate Market2.25% is -Hot CONV 15 YR FIXED (2.305% APR/ - .125 LENDER CREDIT) Home Selling, Buying and Loan refinancing Made easy.

2.375% - FHA 30 YR FIXED (3.910% APR/ - .50 LENDER CREDIT) OAC, 300k loan amount, 750 credit, 70%LTV, rates change daily. Purchase, rate and term refi & cash out refinances available.

Serving Home Owners in 85085: 24 North

Rates as of 11/18/2020

Free online home valuation 24/7

Check your home’s value 24/7 for FREE www.LionRealEstate.com/evaluation

Sell your home at 100% of asking price or I’ll pay the difference* www.TopSaleHomeSellerKit.com

2411 W Gloria Ln. Carefree Crossing

Call Drew for your private tour.

Need Cash Now? Ask me how? Great rates for cash out and rate and term refinances! Call Drew with your scenario 623.203.6803

RealEstateLion.com/evaluation

CALL DREW TO DISCUSS YOUR SCENARIO

7.4 acres w/ Well & Manufactured home

2420 W Crimson Ter Sonoran Gate

Drew

623.203.6803

HERE

Licensed REALTOR and Loan Officer. Lion Real Estate Group powered by: Help me help victims of sexual abuse. Platinum Living Realty With each closing I make a financial Lion’ s Gate Mtg NMLS 1821053 donation to Child Help here in Phoenix. 31318 N 2nd St

Help me help victims of sexual abuse. With each closing I make a financial donation to Child Help here in Phoenix

THE PLATINUM EXPERIENCE

Specific marketing for buyers in 85085. More verified home sales via Zillow

data from ARMLS 7/15/20 to 8/15/20 * conditions apply

YOUR HOME

NEWS

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

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

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

COUNCIL �� page 1

the staff on cost and financing options to ensure there’s buy-in from the council and community to work to implement those steps over the next year and a half “to put something in place for this community that works for us and we can afford– or we can have a plan to afford over a period of time,” Dyrek explained. “We can’t just go out and put one system in place right now. We have to plan for it, and we have to take the steps,” she said, adding that the current town staff doesn’t have fire service expertise. The intergovernmental agreement will secure at least one year of Ford’s services and recommendations to the town on how to implement plans to establish fire service in the town of Cave Creek. With the help of Ford, the town of Cave Creek as well as its staff and council will look to find a strategy that will eventually establish an automatic aid system, Dyrek said. George Riley issued a public comment at the meeting stating how he is in favor of the intergovernmental agreement. “The automatic aid, we definitely need it here,” he said, adding that “I’d rather see it come sooner than later.” He said he’d like to see money allocated in the soonest budget plans because “the desert is not going to get any cooler; it’s going to get warmer.” Harold Shell, a retired firefighter, also issued a public comment voicing his support for the agreement, adding that he is impressed with the town’s progress. Before the vote, Councilwoman Susan Clancy voiced her support for the intergovernmental agreement, quoting Scottsdale Fire Chief Tom Shannon’s letter recommending assistance to the town of Cave Creek, mentioning how Ford has an intimate knowledge of the community and the “wildland-urban interface challenges their topography presents.” The letter also mentions how Ford is a “household name” in the Arizona Fire Service, has worked in the Ru-

ral Metro system that still exists today and has extensive knowledge of municipal fire department environments. “I can’t think of a better person than Deputy Chief Jim Ford,” Clancy said before the vote. “We’re lucky to get someone like him given the complexity of this whole process.” The process that led up to the intergovernmental agreement started post-fire when the town held a public meeting on June 2 to update residents and the public on the details of the fire where a number of fire officials were present to answer questions and offer knowledge, Dyrek said. Later in June, the Cave Creek staff started meeting with local organizations in search of information on fire and emergency medical service options, which led to an ordinance on Stage I and Stage II fire restrictions. On August 10, Kevin Roche, an independent fire consultant, issued a

discussion and presentation on possible options for fire and emergency services as well as mutual and automatic aid. Several other fire service representatives were also present, Dyrek said. Later in August, the town started to receive invoices from the surrounding towns’ and cities’ fire organizations for the costs of their fire service. Those dues were paid, as mentioned during the November 16 town council meeting. In addition, negotiations began with the city of Scottsdale that led to the intergovernmental agreement that was presented and approved at the meeting. “I’m 100% in favor of this,” Councilman Robert Morris said. “Let’s get it going. We can afford it.” The Town Council also unanimously voted to approve the site plan for Galloway Crossing, a 32-unit apartment complex with an upscale pool

see COUNCIL page 11

NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Starbucks to reopen after employee is diagnosed with COVID-19 BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

he Starbucks at 3640 W. Anthem Way, Anthem, is expected to reopen Wednesday, November 25, after one of its employees was diagnosed with COVID-19. According to Jory Mendes with Starbucks, the employee and those determined to have been in close contact with them self-isolated at home. “As soon as we learned of the diagnosis, we quickly activated our established protocols and closed the store to initiate a deep cleaning following all recommended guidelines from public health authorities,” Mendes said. “Due to staffing limitations, the store remains closed until next Wednesday, November 25.” Mendes refers visitors to its At a Glance guide at https://bit.ly/330ZUj7. Mendes

called it a valuable resource the company is continually updating that has additional info on the elevated cleaning and sanitizing protocols it has established as well as what customers should know when visiting the stores. Starbucks requires guests wear masks or face coverings.

Starbucks at 3640 W. Anthem Way, Anthem, is expected to reopen Wednesday, November 25, after one of its employees was diagnosed with COVID-19. (Photo by Sarah Donahue)

NOW OPEN IN HAPPY VALLEY

NEW NAME. SAME PASSION. Arizona Natural Pain Solutions is now Nature’s Medicines

Upcoming Special Events

It gives Nature’s Medicines great pleasure to introduce ourselves to the North Phoenix community. We pledge to live up to the caring service you’ve come to rely on. Come by and see our extensive selection of award-winning cannabis products at our everyday low prices. Meet our team of dedicated PSPs. And check out Reefer Gladness – our popular new brand of luscious medicated treats.

December 12 7 pm

We can’t wait to meet you & make you feel right at home! Happy Valley • Phoenix • Glendale 24905 N. 7th Avenue, off Happy Valley Rd. 623.516.7881 • naturesmedicines.com 8 AM - 10 PM everyday

Visit starlightcommunitytheater.com for tickets or more information! NM.HValley.FHFocusAd.1120.indd 2

11/13/20 10:34 AM

NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Catholic community celebrates GivingTuesday BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

his GivingTuesday—December 1—Catholic Community Foundation will inspire generosity by providing a way for supporters to transform lives through Catholic education by contributing to the Education Forever Fund. The Education Forever Fund is a perpetual endowment designed to support young, faithful students within the community by granting tuition scholarships for Catholic education. School tuition is necessary for Cath-

HAVE A NEWS STORY?

Contact Christina Fuoco-Karasinski at 480-898-5631

or christina@timespublications.com

olic private schools to operate, but this means that most families cannot afford the excellent, whole-person education that Catholic schools offer. The Catholic Community Foundation’s Education Forever Fund seeks to help young students and their families who wish to attend a Catholic school but whose financial situation would otherwise prevent them from doing so. Funds raised for the Education Forever Fund endowment fuel the Tuition Assistance Scholarship Program and directly benefit children by making a quality Catholic education possible. Although the Catholic Community Foundation distributed over $350,000 in scholarship dollars in 2020 to local Catholic schools, the unmet need for tuition assistance is still $27 million for the 2020 to 2021 school year.

How to help Help CCF reach its endowment goal of $12.75 million for the Education Forever Fund so that it can provide reoccurring annual disbursements of $510,000 to the community’s Catholic schools through the Tuition Assistance Scholarship Program. The CCF will match gifts by 100%, up to $50,000.

What is GivingTuesday? GivingTuesday is a global generosity movement, unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and their world. GivingTuesday will kick off the generosity season this year by inspiring people to give back on December 1 and throughout the year. GivingTuesday was launched in 2012 to create a day that encourages people to do good. During the past nine years, this idea has grown

125

SAVE $

OVER

into a global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate and celebrate generosity. “GivingTuesday inspires people all around the world to embrace their power to drive progress around the causes they care about, not just on one day but throughout the year,” said Asha Curran, GivingTuesday’s CEO and co-founder. “With country and community leaders, millions of organizations, and countless givers of all kinds, GivingTuesday is creating a shared space where we can see the radical implications of a more generous world.” Those who are interested in joining the Catholic Community Foundation’s GivingTuesday initiative can visit ccfphx.org/educationforever. For more details about the GivingTuesday movement, visit the GivingTuesday website, givingtuesday.org.

On Senior Wellness Labs

Pets can’t tell us when they’re sick, so Wellness Labs do it for them. Detection through preventative medicine such as wellness labs help to prevent and treat potentially dangerous illnesses. The sooner an illness is identified, the better the chance of a positive outcome. These labs are especially important for senior pets as they are more prone to illness. Providing this preventative care for your senior pet is a crucial step in helping them to live the longest and happiest life possible.

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

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

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 residing in 85085

Not only are we experts in plumbing and air conditioning, we are your neighbors. As residents of 85085, we bring 14 years of experience and a neighborly approach to service. 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

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.” - Fireside at Norterra 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.”

OFF

A New Trane Unit ®

We work weekends with no extra weekend charges We offer Valley Wide Service

Testimonials

- 85085 resident

“Great service! Got the job done right, and for the right price.” - Sonoran Foothills resident

14 Years in Business *Call for details.

A rating +

623.582.1117 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 | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Cave Creek council nixes PetSuites site plan BY SARAH DONAHUE Foothills Focus Staff Writer

fter a number of residents voiced their distaste for the PetSuites site plan, citing concerns about traffic safety and noise, the Cave Creek Town Council voted unanimously to reject the site plan during the November 16 meeting, empathizing with the neighbors’ concerns. “I totally understand the feelings of the neighbors; I empathize with them,” Councilwoman Kathryn Royer stated before voting “no.” “I would not want to live next to a kennel with 25 barking dogs. “I think that we have impacted the neighborhood around 52nd Street enough with all of the new commercial development there, and this is just one more nail in the coffin. She added that this development is inappropriate for the neighborhood. PetSuites offers services like day care,

boarding, training as well as grooming for cats and dogs. The pet resort has more than 30 locations throughout the United States, and if it were approved, this would have been Arizona’s first location. The site plan included a small retail area with a variety of pet products as well as a supervised outdoor play area with small pools, canopies and misters to keep the dogs cool during the warmer months of the year. The site plan also included 25 parking spots for customers as well as employees. While the site plan for the 10,604-square-foot pet resort was rejected, the first reading of the rezone request was approved unanimously. If the rezone request is approved during the second reading on December 8, this will change approximately 2 acres located at the northeast corner of Carefree Highway and 52nd Street within the Carefree Highway Specific Area Plan from desert rural to commer-

cial buffer zone. Both the site plan and rezone request were submitted concurrently by Kimley-Horn on behalf of Carefree 2 LLC and PetSuites. Kimley-Horn mailed letters to all businesses and residents within a half-mile radius of the site and held a neighborhood meeting on September 10 to discuss the project proposal, as required by the town. Nearby resident Mary Vraa, who lives a block north of Carefree Highway, spoke during the November 16 meeting as well as the October 15 planning commission meeting where it voted to recommend approval of the site plan and rezone request to the council. She voiced concerns about traffic safety regarding the ingress and egress within the site plan, mentioning how 52nd Street is too small to have a leftturn lane, which will likely lead drivers to use the road she lives near to turn

around. “We don’t want to be a drive-thru neighborhood,” Vraa said to the council before the vote. “That’s a grave concern. That’s not what we signed up for. That’s not the quality of life that we would like there.” The noise of barking dogs was also a large concern for Vraa, as the site plan included an outdoor yard area where up to 25 dogs could play. “If the yard is on the north side, that is right where the neighborhood is, and I would hate to have to hear something like this,” she said to the council, while playing a sound clip of barking dogs through her phone. “I didn’t sign up to live next to a kennel,” she said. She added that she garnered 36 signatures from neighbors in a half-mile radius who also opposed the site plan.

see PETSUITES page 9

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

NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

PETSUITES �� page 8

Cheryle Carmitchel, another nearby resident, echoed Vraa’s points on potential traffic issues and also mentioned safety concerns about PetSuites’ standard operating procedures. While PetSuites holds animals overnight for boarding, there is not a staff member who works a graveyard shift, explained Bryan Moll from TM Crowley and Associates, an Indiana-based developer representing PetSuites, who was present at the meeting via Zoom. However, there are security measures in place to keep the animals safe in case one escapes, Moll explained, like cameras, alarms and fire sprinklers, and doors that only open from the outside. He also added that while stores typical-

ly close at 7 p.m., there is a staff member present until around 10 p.m. and that employees are on call 24/7 in case of an emergency. Despite that, “I’m very concerned about the care and that nobody is onsite,” Carmitchel said to the council, adding that she wouldn’t take her dog anywhere where there wasn’t someone present for the animals all night long. “I don’t mind the zoning,” Carmitchel explained. “I know something commercial is going to go in there, but I think this is really inappropriate for a neighborhood.” Before the vote, the council members asked the PetSuites representatives if there was a way to mitigate the neighbors’ concerns about the noise from barking dogs by perhaps switching the

layout so the yard was on the south side of the building to provide more of a sound buffer. “Our goal was to create an architecturally appealing building along Carefree Highway,” Moll explained. “Putting a 6- to 8-feet screen wall with the dog runs on the south and east sides of that building would really interfere with the look and feel of that facility.” After around 40 minutes of deliberation on the site plan in total, the council

unanimously voted “no,” agreeing with the residents’ traffic and noise concerns. Mayor Ernie Bunch said, “If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em,” before issuing the final “no” vote. However, after the vote, Bunch said that the applicant may consider alternatives and present another site plan with the dog yard on the south side instead. “They’re not dead,” Bunch said. “They can redo a site plan once they’ve addressed the issues the council has.”

When you need to choose a Medicare plan, Humana can help

Smoothies with Boba

Talking it through, helping you choose, getting answers, finding resources—human care.

1 OFF ANY SIZE OF SMOOTHIES

$ 00

With coupon only.

(623) 551-2664

3655 W. Anthem Way, Ste B-135, Anthem 85086

Call a licensed Humana sales agent for a free consultation*

To Advertise

VIRGINIA “BETH” HARE 480-231-6212 (TTY: 711) Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. vhare@humana.com Humana.com/vhare facebook.com/BethHareInsAgent

480.898.5606

erict@timespublications.com

Y0040_GHHHXDDEN_21_C

*No obligation to enroll.

NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Kiwanis Club of Carefree gives $165K BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

he Kiwanis Club and Foundation of Carefree recently presented checks to several local organizations during its “Under the Misters” Awards Ceremony in Carefree. More than $165,000 was awarded. As the checks were awarded, the organizations’ leaders spoke passionately about what impact the Kiwanis’ support made to the children and the veterans receiving these donations. The organizations receiving money include Cave Creek Unified School District, Rancho Milagro Foundation, Desert Foothills Theater, Annunciation Catholic School, Lone Mountain Elementary School, Cactus Shadows High School, Jubilate Conservatory of Music, Scott Foundation, Desert Foothills Land Trust, Spirit in the Desert, Upscale Singers and the Veterans Memorial.

Kiwanis member John Skarda presents a check to Mike Farrell for the Veterans Memorial. (Photo courtesy The Kiwanis Club of Carefree)

Thanks, Anthem. I love being here to help in a community where people are making a difference every day. Thank you for all you do.

Kiwanis member Diane Dunseath presents a check to MariaElena Rizzo for Rancho Milagro Foundation. (Photo courtesy The Kiwanis Club of Carefree)

Kiwanis member John Skarda presents a check to Eric Simonson for the Retreat Center for our Healing of Memories for Veterans Workshops. (Photo courtesy The Kiwanis Club of Carefree)

PREMIER COMMERCIAL PAINTING, SW

As the exclusive Anthem Community Painter since 2005, we KNOW Anthem, and we love it. We’ve been in business for over 30 years and have an A++ Rating from the Better Business Bureau. All crew members are our own highly skilled craftsmen. We do not hire subcontractors.

Nanette McClelland-Miller, Agent nanettemiller.com Fry’s Shopping Center: Next to Verizon and Tru Burger

We care about the details and our goal is always 100% CUSTOMER SATISFACTION.

MENTION THIS AD FOR A $100 DISCOUNT! Call us today for an estimate!

623-551-8640

thebesthousepainting.com

NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

COUNCIL �� page 4

and spa as well as a clubhouse, barbecue and gathering areas. The apartments will be located on 4 acres of land on Cave Creek Road and Galloway Drive, an area that has an existing zoning classification of multiple residences within the Town Core Specific Area Plan. A similar development was approved on this property in 2017 but did not proceed, said Luke Kautzman, the planning director. During the October 15 meeting, the Town of Cave Creek Planning Commission voted 6-0 in favor of recommending approval to the town council. Despite the architect’s plans to “raise the standard of the leased residential community in Cave Creek,” multiple residents issued public comments, voicing concerns that the apartment complex would be government-subsidized “hut” housing. The owner, Scott Whelan, was present at the meeting and addressed the

residents’ concerns, saying, “100% no,” explaining that these are luxury apartments that are “setting a new market” in Cave Creek. On the low end, the two-bedroom, 1,500-square-foot apartments will run around $2,000 a month and the three-bedroom, 1,800-square-foot apartments will range from $2,650 and $2,900 a month, he estimated, adding that the leases will likely be two-year minimum due to high interest and demand. “Galloway Crossing is a welcomed departure from the norm,” the architect, Greg Zimmerman, wrote in his architect narrative. “Galloway Crossing promises to raise the standard of the leased residential community in Cave Creek with nonapartment-style design.” Rather than use a typical “barracks” type of design that many multiple-unit residential properties have, Galloway Crossing will have a “low density” concept, featuring smaller, more intimate structures that house eight residences in each

building, Zimmerman described. For aesthetic value, there will be a variation in materials and paint schemes, where materials like real cut stone, rustic metal and adobe brick will be used for window awnings and other accents, the architect narrative says. There are existing wells on the property, which will be used to irrigate landscaping and the pool, Whelan said, adding that the historic windmill will remain a part of the final project as a “cosmetic showpiece.” The council members were pleased to

hear that the windmill would remain a part of the project and voiced optimism about the development before unanimously approving the site plan. “I think that it is in a good place, It’s across the street from a major commercial development. If we are going to have apartments, that’s probably the best place for them,” Councilwoman Kathryn Royer said before voting “yes.” “I hope and I feel very confident that the builder is true to his word. I think that it will be good for our community.”

HAVE A NEWS STORY?

Contact Christina Fuoco-Karasinski at 480-898-5631 or christina@timespublications.com

You Want

[Exceptional Physical Therapy.] We Are Your Healthcare Team. The Midwestern University Physical Therapy team offers affordable, comprehensive, individualized therapy treatments for chronic pain, injury, or surgery. Our faculty doctors specialize in the treatment of orthopedic, spine, vestibular, vertigo, balance, and neurologic conditions, including Parkinson’s disease and stroke. Our state-ofthe-art clinic features the first CAREN virtual rehabilitation system in Arizona.

Call for an appointment:

623-537-6000

Midwestern University

Ther apy Institute Your Family’s Home for Healthcare

Also Offering Online Telemedicine Appointments

5815 West Utopia Road Glendale, Arizona 85308 www.mwuclinics.com

NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

ZYDONIK �� page 1

site locations. “I am over the moon,” she said. “What an opportunity and what an amazing organization. Today I went on a ride with one of the drivers to pick up donated food. We are so blessed to have all the food the stores donate. What a wonderful opportunity to recycle, and this is getting used to the folks who need it.” Prior to joining the food bank on November 16, Zydonik served the Center for Civic Engagement (CCE) at the University of Findlay in Ohio, an organization that supports a network of community partners that seek collaborative solutions to complex social problems that affect residents across the region. In addition to her former role as director of the CCE, Zydonik taught business classes at the University of Findlay. She also held positions with the Northwest Ohio Flood Mitigation Partnership, the Arts Partnership and Marathon Petroleum Company.

PRE-SALE HAPPENING NOW

Zydonik earned a Bachelor of Science from Bowling Green State University and a Master of Science from the University of Dayton. “My husband (Ron) and I came from Ohio,” she said. “My husband got a job here first. He came two months ago, and I followed a week and a half ago. “We’re both going back to our roots. I’m so passionate about nonprofit agencies and community organizations. His background in signage and engraving for 30 years. We’re coming home to what we started with.” She said she accepted the job with Foothills Food Bank because of the staff ’s caring nature, the website’s professionalism and the positive reviews. “It resonated with me,” Zydonik said. “The reach in the community was pretty amazing.” She said she anticipates continuing to build on the foundation that Pam DiPietro and her team established over the past 18 years.

UNLIMITED INFRARED FITNESS

AND INFRARED SAUNAS

BOOK A TOUR: 480.530.0335

•

BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM WITH INFRARED THERAPY

•

MULTIPLE CONCEPTS INCLUDING INTERVAL TRAINING & BARRE/YOGA

•

BURN UP TO 500 CALORIES WITH HIGH INTENSITY TRAINING

•

TRACK YOUR WORKOUT WITH HEART RATE TECHNOLOGY

•

WORKOUT SESSIONS POWERED WITH INFRARED

•

ELITE CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS TO MOTIVATE AND GUIDE YOU

•

COMPLETE FULL BODY WORKOUTS

•

PRIVATE INFRARED SAUNAS FOR RECOVERY

2460 W Happy Valley Rd Ste. 1159 Phoenix, AZ 85085

“I’m also looking forward expanding programs, but with COVID it’s limiting,” said Zydonik, who has sons—Bryce, 22, and Reed, 24, with Ron. “I want to expand some of the programs they started and offer resources and assistance to clients. I want to involve more community partners, like the schools. COVID turned ev-

erything upside down. It’s not like we can shut down, though. The need is there for certain. “Safety nets like the food bank are so important. It shows in times like this.” Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center is located at 6038 E. Hidden Valley Drive in Cave Creek and the phone number is 480-488-1145.

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

pronounced dead on scene. The court ordered a 24-hour GPS monitoring as a condition of his release on bond from the Eagle County Detention Facility on August 27 following his arrest on July 4. The former Vail IT director, Braden was arrested and charged with multiple crimes, including violations of the Colorado Organized Crime Control Act, embezzlement of public property, theft, official misconduct, forgery and assault on a peace officer. These charges resulted from an 18-month investigation in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation for theft of public funds. Braden resigned from the town’s employment after his 2018 arrest for soliciting a minor for prostitution.

Fugitive kills self near Tatum and Pinnacle Peak

Vail, Colorado, man died by suicide November 21 as law enforcement officers were attempting to contact him on Tatum Boulevard between Pinnacle Peak and Jomax roads. Ron Braden had been a fugitive since November 13, after he cut off his court-ordered GPS monitoring device. On November 20, Vail police learned the 55-year-old man fled to Maricopa County. At 9:30 a.m. November 21, after several hours of surveillance, members of Maricopa County Fugitive Task Force attempted to contact him. Before deputies could make contact, Braden shot himself and was

The Foothills Focus online at www.TheFoothillsFocus.com

480.530.0335 www.RedEffectFitness.com

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Chris Gonzalez

Discount up to 30%

Your Neighborhood Lender

with Drive Safe & Save !* â&#x201E;˘

Proud Member of

0 E st . 2

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

Mortgage Advisor | NMLS 669924

480-442-4494

Business: 623-551-3700 justin.simons.j663@statefarm.com

Professional & Values driven

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m inviting you to make our roads safer and get rewarded for doing so. Are you in?

AZMortgageProfessional.com

Call for a no obligation mortgage review

All Western Mortgage, Inc. 3715 W. Anthem Way, Ste 110, Anthem, AZ 85086 Branch Line: 480-237-3421 AZ BK #1005805 Branch NMLS 1942702

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

NEWS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Anthem honors Youth for Troops with award BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

he Anthem Community Council tapped Youth for Troops for the 2020 Anthem Veterans Service Award during a virtual Veterans Day ceremony held November 11. Created by the ACC in 2013 and presented annually, the award recognizes an individual or group demonstrating “extraordinary service and selfless dedication in support of our nation’s veterans.” Since 2017, Youth for Troops has been preparing care packages for deployed service members, making plastic mats for homeless veterans, serving as flag bearers for Honor Flight homecomings, helping to conduct the VFW Buddy Poppy Drive and assisting with ceremonies and paver installations at the Anthem Veterans Memorial, participating in the annual Daisy Mountain Veterans Parade, among other things. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic

Youth for Troops Founding Youth Board and Advisers, from left, Geoffrey Hoffa, Taylor Piatt, Walter Hoffa, Renee Hoffa, Leo Hoffa, Heather Piatt, Hannah Piatt and Tonya Piatt. Not pictured are Sophie Hoffa, Tamara Foster and David Piatt. (Photo courtesy Anthem Community Council)

restrictions, Youth for Troops volunteer members continued to make plastic mats and care packages, following guidelines but steadfast in their mission to help veterans and active-duty service members. A quote from one nomination reads, “If there is any event supporting veterans, Youth for Troops will always be there.”

“Thank you so much to the Anthem Community Council for this recognition,” said Hannah Piatt, Youth for Troops founding youth board member. “We are humbled and honored to be placed on this plaque among outstanding veterans, many of whom we are proud to call friends. Thank you to this patriot-

ic community that supports our heroes and to all the volunteers and supporters that make our mission a success; we can’t serve our heroes without each of you. This recognition belongs to volunteers of all ages who have honored our heroes through their community service. We love this community and the beautiful Anthem Veterans Memorial.” A plaque with the names of all recipients is on display at the Anthem Civic Building. Past winners, selected annually by the ACC Board of Directors based on nominations submitted from the community, include: Daisy Mountain Veterans (2013); Ray Norris (2014); Mary Ann Derryberry (2015); Liz Turner (2016); Bob Hackett (2017) and John Simmons (2017); Tom Kirk (2018) and Ron Tucker (2019). Visit OnlineAtAnthem.com/AVM to learn more about the Anthem Veterans Memorial. Following recommended safety guidelines, volunteers can assist Youth for Troops at monthly events by registering with youth4troops@gmail.com.

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 Now in our new History of successfully negotiating down medical costs location! -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

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

O T E F I L E LIV T S E L L U F E H T In the same way your life story is uniquely yours, your experience here will be unique. We make life easier by tending to the necessities so you can lead an enriched and fulfilling lifestyle full of friendship, activities, and happiness.

THIRD MONTH FREE!

Age fearlessly. Live colorfully.® Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care

OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Opinion TheFoothillsFocus.com

@TheFoothills.Focus

For more opinions visit thefoothillsfocus.com /TheFoothillsFocus

Can we expect a new battle over vaccine? BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Foothills Focus Columnist

fter a year of fighting over masks, we have something new to look forward to likely beginning next month: arguing over whether or not refusing to get a vaccine against COVID-19 constitutes a public health menace. Me, I’ll be getting the vaccine as soon as I can. For a few reasons, including my own peace of mind, medical evidence that it will prevent me from getting others sick and because I’d like to spend some time with my father—who’s about to turn 75 and is in badly failing health— without fearing that I’ll transmit COVID

and kill him. As for what you do, I suppose that’s not really my business. However, it may be the government’s business, at least as many legal scholars read the 1905 U.S. Supreme Court case Jacobson v. Massachusetts. That’s the case that gives states the power to protect public health, including mandating vaccines for schoolchildren. Arizona, as you may know, has carved out vaccine exemptions for medical reasons, religious beliefs and when “immunizations are against the personal beliefs of the parent.” Given that the state currently has no mask mandate, I can’t imagine Gov. Doug

• Wills & Trusts • Probate • Bankruptcy • Family Law • Business • Litigation

Ducey will require COVID vaccines any time soon. Towns and cities, however? That might be a different story. And it’s where things could start to get contentious. In Phoenix, where Mayor Kate Gallego has taken a strong public health stance against COVID-19, a vaccine mandate would spark a huge political firestorm. In Tempe, where progressive politics hold sway, I could see a vaccine mandate being well received. That wouldn’t be the case in Mesa, Gilbert or Scottsdale, where more conservative politics are the norm.

�ee VACCINE page 18

Tetsell Team Your Neighborhood Realtors® serving all of Anthem and the North Valley! Discover the possibilities!

Dick 480.227.6578 dick@tetsellaz.com

Sam Crump, Esq.

Nichole Oblinger, Esq.

www.AnthemLaw.com • (623) 551-5457

Jill 480.203.9066 Jtetsell@gmail.com

www.tetsellteam.com

SERT ELITE

OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

AROUND THE BLUHMIN’ TOWN

Thanksgiving is going to look different this year GROUP BY JUDY BLUHM Foothills Focus Columnist

hanks. Giving. Two simple words with distinct meanings. And now the “day of thanks and giving” is upon us, but it’s different this year. It’s, perhaps, not the huge family gathering (sadly)—and if we do get together, possibly wearing face masks? We could not have imagined 2020 nor made it up. Still, in the midst of “everything” going on, we are approaching the one holiday that is truly special, with no gift giving to commercialize it, no religion to limit it and no elf to trivialize it. It is that time of year where we long to be with our loved ones, eat a delicious meal, hang out with our family and friends, and launch ourselves into the “Christmas season.” What will this Thanksgiving even look like? We want to gather but don’t want our vulnerable or elderly family members to be-

come ill with COVID-19. We want to travel but just might reluctantly stay home. We’d like to cook a huge meal, but the group might be smaller. And a video call just doesn’t feel like the proper way to celebrate a holiday! In other words, nothing about this Thanksgiving seems “normal.” And so here we are. Trying to find “glimmers of hope and joy” during turbulent times. It might be an unusual day. My friend says she is sad the family decided to “stay apart.” But the hope is that they can “all be together soon, with no one missing.” She also pointed out that not cooking a massive meal that is labor intensive won’t make her cry. My doctor is not going to visit his grandkids as planned but might enjoy the “glorious solitude” of a hike and a day to relax and watch a movie. My grandson, Kevin, who is in the Navy, will be enjoying his first holiday at home in Arizona in four years. We are so thankful, but with several vulnerable family

What’s Your

ally” Worth?

#1 Selling Team at Berkshire Hathaway Anthem 480-770-2466

members, it will be a series of small gatherings and not the huge celebration we had wanted. And so it goes. We don’t control the wind or a coronavirus; we just adjust our sails. Speaking of sails, in 1620 a small ship called the Mayflower left Plymouth, England, with 102 passengers who were looking for a new life in a new land. The journey was harsh. Weary but hopeful, fearful but brave, they ended up in Cape Cod, then onto Massachusetts Bay. They stayed on the ship and suffered through the first winter, with about half of the group dying before spring. With the help of Native Americans, they planted corn and other crops and celebrated their harvest with a three-day feast in November. They gave thanks to God for their bounty and for the life they had forged in a strange place. A tradition of gathering, thankfulness and the belief that all things are possible formed the early fabric of a great American holiday.

While George Washington declared a national Proclamation of Thanks in 1729, it was Lincoln who first established Thanksgiving as a national holiday. So, this week, like the Pilgrims before us, we Americans give thanks. Judy Bluhm is a writer and a local Realtor. Have a story or a comment? Email Judy at judy@judybluhm.com.

Desert Elite Group

mber of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC.

480-770-2466

3434 W Anthem Way #112, Phoenix, AZ 85086 A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC.

| Maja Tatar 602-332-0270 Sonja Hill 480-353-9263 Gary Wilson 602-320-6327 | Jeff Huff 480-888-6361 | Chuck Finzer 602-908-4424

OUR OFFICE IS MOVING!

OPINION THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | We might be changing locations, but we aren’t going anywhere. You can expect the same committed support, but with a new view. VACCINE from page 16

OUR OFFICE IS MOVING!

THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

The West Valley is anybody’s guess.

your employer decide to go that way. Lots of businesses could refuse service to patrons who don’t get vaccinated. Restaurants could institute a “no shot, no service” rule. Airlines could forbid you from flying. Grocery stores could bar you from entering, while accommodating you with curbside pickup. Note: I’m not saying local governments or businesses will do this or that they should do it. I’m saying they could do it. Given the near riots that being forced to wear a mask has caused in Arizona, I’m not sure anyone will be brave enough—or foolhardy enough—to wade into that particular brand of apocalypse. So once again, we’ll all be on our own. As a believer in personal responsibility, I’ve never much minded that. I wear a mask to protect myself and others and I’ll get the vaccine. If you want to be patriotic—or be Buster Badass—and skip it, go ahead. Worst-case scenario, your refusal ends up thinning the herd a bit. You’ll be missed. We might even lift a, uh, shot in your memory. After the pandemic dies down, of course.

We might be changing locations, but we aren’t The real question: What would the We might be changing locations, going anywhere. You can expect the going anywhere. You can expect the samebut we aren’t GOP-controlled Maricopa County Board of Supervisors do, given that their mask commited support, butsupport, with a newbut view. same committed with a new view. mandate has remained in place since John Kovach, JuneAgent 20?

I don’t foresee mandatory COVID vacBus: (623) 551-7900 cines being passed by any local governMOVING! ment here in the Valley. jkovach@amfam.com But your employer? That’s a different g locations, but we aren’t going anywhere. You can expect the

story. Employment in Arizona is “at will,” port, but with a new view. which gives your3,boss wide latitude in New Address as of August 2020 establishing working conditions. That likely includes the ability to require a might be changing locations, but we aren’t going anywhere. You can expect the 3715 W Anthem WayforSuite 112 who want to vaccine all employees committed support, but with a new view. keep their jobs. Anthem AZ 85086 That isn’t to say employers have total We might be changing locations, but we aren’t going anywhere. You can expect the authority: Workers would still have the same committed support, but with a new view. ability to seek a medical exemption or get a waiver based on their religious beliefs. That’s especially true in businesses with 15 or more employees. If you work for a mom-and-pop operation where We might be changing locations, but we aren’t going anywhere. You can expect the those legal protections don’t apply? No same committed support, but with a new view. vaccine, no job could be the rule, should

John Kovach, Agent

R OFFICE IS MOVING!

OUR OFFICE IS MOVING!

Bus: (623) 551-7900 jkovach@amfam.com

John Kovach, Agent

John551-7900 Kovach, Agent Bus: (623) OUR OFFICE IS MOVING! Bus: (623) 551-7900 John Kovach, Agent jkovach@amfam.com

New Address as of August 3, 2020

jkovach@amfam.com Bus: (623) 551-7900

WALK-IN BATHTUB SALE! SAVE $1,500

New Address asjkovach@amfam.com of August 2020 New Address as of August 3,3,2020

3715 W Anthem Way Suite 112 John Kovach, Agent New Address as of August 3, 2020 3715 W Anthem Way Suite 112 Anthem 3715 W Anthem Way Suite 112 Bus: (623) 551-7900 AZ 85086 Walk-In Tubs

Anthem AZ 85086 3715 W Anthem Way Suite 112

Anthem AZ 85086 Anthem AZ 85086

One-Touch Controls

Hand Held Shower

Low Threshold

Comfort & Safety

jkovach@amfam.com New Address as of August 3, 2020 3715 W Anthem Way Suite 112 Anthem AZ 85086

Lifetime Warranty! Finance Options Available*

44 Hydrotherapy Jets

✓EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST!

Only American Standard has OVER 140 years of experience and offers the Liberation Walk-In Bathtub.

✓SUPERIOR DESIGN!

n Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. and its Operating Companies, n Family Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. and its Operating Companies, – 1/18 ©2018 – 12539633

Ultra low easy entry and exit design, wide door, built-in safety bar and textured floor provides a safer bathing experience.

✓PATENTED QUICK-DRAIN® TECHNOLOGY ✓LIFETIME WARRANTY!

The ONLY Lifetime Warranty on the bath AND installation, INCLUDING labor backed by American Standard.

✓44 HYDROTHERAPY JETS! More than any other tub we’ve seen.

Company, S.I. and its Operating Companies, y, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783

Limited Time Offer! Call Today!

FREE!

Savings Include an American Standard Right Height Toilet FREE! ($500 Value)

FREE!

An In-Home Evaluation Will Be Scheduled At Your Earliest Convenience

1-877-832-9175

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. and its Operating Companies, American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. and its Operating Companies, American Family Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 014472 – Company, 1/18 ©2018 – 12539633 American Family Insurance 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 014472 – 1/18 ©2018 – 12539633

Or visit: www.walkintubinfo.com/lovin

Discount applied at time of purchase. Terms and Conditions Apply. * Subject to 3rd party credit approval. Minimum monthly payments required. Receive a free American Standard Cadet Toilet with full installation of a Liberation Walk-In Bath, Liberation Shower, or Deluxe Shower. Offer valid only while supplies last. Limit one per household. Must be first time purchaser. All offers subject to change prior to purchase. See www.AmericanStandardBathtubs.com for other restrictions and for licensing, warranty, and company information. *CSLB B982796; Suffolk NY:5543IH; NYC:HIC#2022748-DCA. Safety Tubs Co. LLC does not sell in Nassau NY, Westchester NY, Putnam NY, Rockland NY.

OPINION

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

The long-awaited Arizona art festival season is upon us. Join us!

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.

No Clipping Required.

“Matriarch”

13” H x 7” W x 5.5”D by Kim Seyesmen Obrzut

ON AVERAGE, AARP MEMBERS ENJOY

$449

SAVINGS

ON AUTO INSURANCE when they switch from companies like

GEICO, State Farm and Allstate Your savings could be even more!

Call The Hartford 1-844-998-0817

The AARP® Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford.1 Saving is easy! With this policy, experienced drivers who switch save an average of $4492 in the first year alone — and they get all the benefits and privileges you’d expect with the AARP Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford. Your own savings could actually be greater.

96%

of customers recommend The Hartford*

■ ■ ■ ■

24/7 claims service First accident forgiveness3 Lock in your rate for a full 12 months New car replacement3

The only national auto insurance program endorsed by AARP.

Call The Hartford now to request a FREE money-saving quote.

Stagecoach Village Art on the Plaza 7100 E Cave Creek Rd, Cave Creek

• November 27-29 • December 4-6 • January 22-24 • March 19-21

Tubac Festival of Arts • February 10-14

Wigwam Festival of Fine Art 300 E Wigwam Blvd, Litchfield Park

• February 19-21

Litchfield Park Art & Wine Festival 300 E Wigwam Blvd, Litchfield Park

• December 12-13 • March 6-7

1-844-998-0817 No coupon necessary.

Not an AARP member? If you’re 50 or over, request a FREE quote and more information today!

FREE duffle bag when you request your free quote!4

AARP and its affiliates are not insurers. Paid endorsement. The Hartford pays royalty fees to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. AARP membership is required for Program eligibility in most states. The AARP Automobile Insurance Program from The Hartford is underwritten by Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates, One Hartford Plaza, Hartford, CT 06155. It is underwritten in CA by Hartford Underwriters Insurance Company; in WA, by Hartford Casualty Insurance Company; in MN, by Sentinel Insurance Company; and in MA, MI and PA, by Trumbull Insurance Company. Auto is currently unavailable in Canada and U.S. Territories or possessions. Specific features, credits and discounts may vary and may not be available in all states in accordance with state filings and applicable law. Applicants are individually underwritten and some may not qualify. 1 In Texas, the Auto Program is underwritten by Southern County Mutual Insurance Company, through Hartford Fire General Agency. Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates are not financially responsible for insurance products underwritten and issued by Southern County Mutual Insurance Company. 2 Savings amounts based on information reported by customers who switched to The Hartford from other carriers between 1/1/19 and 12/31/19. Your savings may vary. 3First Accident Forgiveness is not available to CA policyholders. Terms and conditions apply. 4Gift is a limited time offer and not available in all states. Email address required in most states. Allow 4-7 weeks for delivery. Bottle not included. *Based on customer experience reviews shared online at www.thehartford.com/aarp as of June 2020. 006131

www.vermillionpromotions.com • 623-734-6526

BUSINESS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Business TheFoothillsFocus.com

@TheFoothills.Focus

For more opinions visit thefoothillsfocus.com

/TheFoothillsFocus

Scottsdale businessman, vet open Pet Supplies Plus BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

ich Bayley and Brett Cordes, the men behind Pet Supplies Plus at Lone Mountain and North Scottsdale roads, have opened an additional store in Moon Valley. The store at 245 E. Bell Road, Suite 15, offers amenities such as a full-service grooming salon and self-pet wash stations, a knowledgeable pet care team, and carry-out service in which team members carry heavy items to neighbors’ cars. Cordes is a veterinarian known as “Brett the Vet” and owns Arizona Animal Hospital. Cordes and Arizona Animal

YOU

TO BE

You Deserve You Deserve to be Comfortable You You Deserve Deserve to be Comfortable You Deserve to toDeserve be be C Comfortable omfortable You Deserve You totobebe CC omfortable YOU omfortable to be Comfortable

Nathan Macafee, Kira Pence-Walters, manager Naomi Hope, Mich Bayley and Brianna Floyd are on the team at Pet Supplies Plus Moon Valley. Atlas, a 7-year-old miniature pinscher, shops at Pet Supplies Plus. (Photos by Pablo Robles)

Hospital will offer select vet services at the new Pet Supplies Plus Moon Valley

TO BE

HEATING INDOOR AIRQUALITY QUALITY HEATING HEATING•••COOLING COOLING COOLING ••• INDOOR INDOOR AIR AIR QUALITY HEATING •• COOLING INDOOR AIR QUALITY HEATING COOLING •• INDOOR AIR QUALITY HEATING • COOLING • INDOOR AIR QUALITY HEATING • COOLING • INDOOR AIR QUALITY Feel the Feel Feel the the Feelthe the Feel the Feel

602-789-3000

602-789-3000 602-789-3000 602-789-3000 602-789-3000 Feel the 602-789-3000 Com f ort Com Com ffCom ort ortinfo@azperfectcomfort.com info@azperfectcomfort.com Com ort info@azperfectcomfort.com info@azperfectcomfort.com Com ffort fwww.azperfectcomfort.com ort info@azperfectcomfort.com info@azperfectcomfort.com

602-789-3000

www.azperfectcomfort.com www.azperfectcomfort.com Com fBeen ort info@azperfectcomfort.com You’ve Been You’ve You’ve Been Been You’ve You’ve Been You’ve Been

www.azperfectcomfort.com www.azperfectcomfort.com www.azperfectcomfort.com

Missin Missin Missin Missin Missin ggg !gg!!!! www.azperfectcomfort.com Missin g! You’ve Been

ROBIN &JOHN JOHN MCCOMBS ROBIN &ROBIN &JOHN MCCOMBS ROBIN & JOHNROBIN MCCOMBS &MCCOMBS JOHN MCCOMBS VETERAN OWNED OPERATED VETERAN OWNED && &OPERATED VETERAN VETERAN OWNED OWNED & &OPERATED OPERATED VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED VETERAN OWNED OPERATED

Missin gOFF !25 on ANY REPAIR on onREPAIR ANY 25 ANY REPAIR on on 25 OFF ANY ANY REPAIR REPAIR ANY REPAIR 25 25OFF OFF OFF 25 OFF $ 25 OFF on ANY REPAIR

ROC#300933 BONDED & INSURED ROC#300933 •ROC#300933 BONDED &ROC#300933 INSURED • BONDED INSURED ROC#300933 • •BONDED BONDED & &INSURED INSURED ROC#300933 •• BONDED & &INSURED

$$$$

ROBIN & JOHN MCCOMBS VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED

N o t v a l i d w i t h o t h e r o f f e r s o r p r o m o t i o n s , o n e c o u p o nROC#300933 p e r p e•rBONDED s o n . & INSURED Not valid with N o toht evraol ifdf ewr ist ho ro tphreormooftf ieornss o, ro nper ocmo ou tpioonn sp, eornpe ecrosuopno. n p e r p e r s o n .

tvlvai d al ildiwdw er sresoronsn.o.n . N oNtNo ovt a i twihti ht ohotothhteherer roofoffffeef rerssr soo orr rppprroroom mmooottitioioonnnsss, ,,o oonnne eec cocououpupopononnppepererprpep

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

store. As community partners, Cordes and Bayley will partner with local animal shelters, rescue organizations and nonprofits to host year-round adoption events, fundraisers, and pet food and product drives. “With our second store, we want to provide the same care and commitment to our neighbors’ pets in a new community,” Bayley said. “My bringing medical resources under the same roof as retail offerings, we hope neighbors will have one less trip to worry about wile caring for their furry— or scaly—family member.” The two met through Bayley’s ecommerce business 10 years ago. “He purchased a new building and was in the process of putting retail and services in,” Bayley said. “That was in 2019, and I had purchased several Pet Supplies Plus franchises. He did a fair amount of due diligence and went through a bunch of stories. I presented an opportunity; he liked it. That’s how it evolved.” Bayley said he invested in Pet Supplies Plus because he liked its business model. He met the management and learned it was a “solid franchise” with good reviews. “They didn’t have a presence in the western United States, and they wanted

a stronger presence here,” Bayley said. “It’s a growing industry, and the demographics are stronger, frankly, with millennials, who are even more pet centric. “All those boxes checked and there wasn’t anybody in that space in the market. We’re all about neighborhood engagement. A typical store is 5,000 to 7,500 square feet, with a broad selection and knowledgeable staff and high neighborhood engagement. There wasn’t anybody in that segment in the market.” Michigan-based Pet Supplies Plus has more than 460 locations in 33 states.

Atlas Miniature Pincher 7 years

The stores have a streamlined design, making it easy to navigate a wide assortment of natural foods, hard goods and pet services. Pet parents are welcome to shop with their dogs at the store, where team members are on-site to answer questions, offer tips, or play with pets who enter the store. During this time of social distancing, Pet Supplies Plus is offering neighbors online ordering with either one-hour curbside pickup or free home delivery. To order online, visit petsuppliesplus.com.

BUSINESS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Mountainside Fitness launches M Virtual Fitness BY FOOTHILLS FOCUS STAFF

ountainside Fitness is launching M Virtual Fitness to help people stay healthy at home as well as in the club. M Virtual Fitness is now complimentary and included as a part of all memberships. The offerings include: • Group fitness on demand: fulllength group fitness classes available at home or anywhere. • Personal training at home: Train with a certified personal trainer from home. • Virtual workouts at home: weekly workouts for members on the MSF app. • Senior fitness on demand: specialty group fitness classes for active seniors. • Exercise demos: Perfect your form with these how-to exercise demos. • Fitness class archives: Easily access favorite group fitness class videos. • Equipment demos: easy-to-follow,

how-to equipment demos. “Mountainside Fitness is excited about the technology we developed,

which allows our members to have more options that make them feel comfortable and safe,” said Tom Hat-

ten, CEO and founder of Mountainside Fitness. “Whether you are coming into a Mountainside Fitness location or staying at home to work out, we are proud to offer a variety of classes and exercise options, including personal training, which will allow our members to choose options that are best suited for them either in person and remotely. There is currently no other fitness center offering this type of product at this scale. Mountainside Fitness will be the only fitness center within our market to offer this type of at-home virtual service amenities, covering all ranges of fitness just like you’d see if you walked into a Mountainside Fitness location.” To sign up, visit mountainsidefitness.com. The nearest Mountainside Fitness is in Happy Valley Towne Center, 2501 W. Happy Valley Road, Suite 30, Phoenix. Call 602-601-4747 for more information.

FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Features TheFoothillsFocus.com

@TheFoothills.Focus

For more opinions visit thefoothillsfocus.com

/TheFoothillsFocus

A potpourri of powerful perspectives for 20/20 living CHURCH COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Pastor Ed Delph Foothills Focus Columnist

602.842.9948 SonoranScapes.com Landscape Installation • Design & Install • Planting • Lighting • Outdoor Audio

• Synthetic Grass • Paver Installation • Travertine • Irrigation Systems

Landscape Maintenance • Monthly maintenance • As needed clean ups

• Tree Trimming • Residential & Commercial

LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED ROC - 268551

Your news 24/7 www.TheFoothillsFocus.com

oday I would like to pour out on you readers a potpourri of perspectives I have gleaned from others regarding life and living in 2020. You can access their thoughts on social media and the internet. Courage, my friends. Read on! Life in 2020 Our �irst quip is about golf and politics in 2020. “If it goes left, it’s a hook. If it goes right, it’s a slice. If it goes straight, it’s a miracle.” “I don’t have ducks. I don’t have a row. I have squirrels, and they’re drunk.” “Don’t bother walking a mile in my shoes. That would be boring. Spend 30 seconds in my head. That’ll freak you right out.” “Remember, if you lose a sock in the dryer, it comes back as a Tupperware lid that doesn’t �it any of your containers.” “Once you understand why pizza is made round, packed in a square box and eaten as a triangle, then you will understand women.” “I pretended to be asleep, and then I fell asleep. Now I’m going to pretend I’m skinny.”

Corona quips “I still can’t believe people’s survival instincts told them to reach for toilet paper.” “I’m not adding this year to my age. I didn’t use it.” “The dumbest thing I have ever bought was a planner for 2020.” “Lockdown can only go four ways. You’ll come out as a monk, a hunk, a chunk or a drunk. Choose wisely.” “I went into the bathroom at a restaurant. I washed my hands. I opened the door with my elbow. I raised the toilet seat with my foot. I turned on the water faucet with a

tissue. I opened the bathroom door to leave with my elbow. And when I returned to my table, I realized I forgot to pull up my pants.”

Content of your character “Equality is about giving everyone an equal chance, not an equal result.” “Truism: doing good for intention, not for attention.” “There’s a difference between being ef�icient or being effective: Rowing harder doesn’t help if the boat is headed in the wrong direction.” “You don’t have to attend every argument you’re invited to.”

Heavenly health “Technically speaking, Moses was the �irst with a tablet downloading data from the cloud.” ‘When you pray, God listens. When you listen, God talks. When you believe, God works.” “If I die, I’ll be with Jesus. If I live, Jesus will be with me. So, if I die or if I live, I am the Lord’s.” Let me �inish with this thought for you. No matter what you do, keep your joy. Why? Because the joy of the Lord is your strength. If you lose your joy, you lose your strength. If you lose your strength, you can’t �ight. If you can’t �ight, you lose. Many are born to win but conditioned to lose all because of a loss of joy. That’s why forced joy is better than genuine depression. There you go. That’s 20/20 vision for closing 2020. Until we �ix it in our heart and address it in our home, nothing will change in the world. Happy Thanksgiving. To learn more about Pastor Ed Delph, the Church-Community Connection and Nation strategy, call 623-376-6757, e-mail nationstrategy@cs.com or visit nationstrategy.com.

FEATURES

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Tucson comic ready to perform Thanksgiving week BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

said. “Everyone’s very nice. I don’t see myself ever going back to LA. “I love it so much. I can’t go back to cities anymore. I live kind of above Tucson, in the mountains. Even when I go to Denver or whatever, I said, ‘This is too crowded.’ I love the space out here. I don’t see how I would move back to LA without having a mental breakdown.”

amie Kilstein is looking forward to playing Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy this week at High Street in North Phoenix. However, it isn’t the typical energy he usually feels before a set of shows. “There’s something so exciting right now, even if the crowds are smaller,” Kilstein said. “It’s really cathartic for everyone who has been trapped inside watching the terrible news, and everyone is �ighting politically.” He said the crowd is happy to have a diversion—especially in New York, where he used to perform often. New York audiences could be jaded; even Kilstein felt that way. “I’ve been doing this since I was 17,” Kilstein said. “I dropped out of high school to do this. You become jaded and, when you have a year like this with loss and struggles, you just forget how important comedy is. People forget about laughter and just chilling out and getting out of your head. We need to enjoy ourselves in a roomful of friends.” Kilstein has another reason to perform—and celebrate. His album “25% Capacity” is due out December 4. He said the album—his �irst in more than a decade—was recorded illegally in a “super shady warehouse in Colorado” while clubs were on lockdown. “I walked in and it looked like the shop at the beginning of ‘Gremlins,’” Kilstein said. “There was a cat wandering around and some beer-making distillery thing. The owner asked if we were cops and immediately told us to close the doors and not to let the cat out. It wasn’t exactly the Sydney Opera House. There were probably 30 people there.” His �irst two albums were recorded in Chicago’s Lakeshore Theater, which closed in 2010. “I wanted an album that represented 2020, and what a better way to represent 2020 than recording in an underground speakeasy of 30 people wearing masks,” he said with a laugh.

Tucson comedian Jamie Kilstein is releasing a new album on December 4. “25% Capacity” is his first in more than a decade. (Photo courtesy Jamie Kilstein)

“We didn’t know if the mic was going to work. It was very purposely set up that way. The name of it is ‘25% Capacity,’ and even the artwork was not fancy. It looks like a mixtape from when I was a kid. It’s above COVID and it’s about loneliness and this is the �irst year that I was ever single, which is quite the bold year to get over co-dependence.” Two younger fans of his learned how shady the warehouse was. “They �lew in from Portland and it was literally in this warehouse district of Denver,” he said. “It was so shady the Uber driver didn’t want to drop them off. He didn’t feel comfortable. “The album is an honest representation of what I was going through, what the world’s going through and what a show sounds like now. It’s a cool time capsule.” Kilstein said he used to be a “little self-righteous yelling political comedian.” There’s no agenda and he no longer has to persuade people of his political stance. A New York native, Kilstein is now a resident of the Grand Canyon State. He moved to Tucson recently to try to save a dying relationship. This is the �irst time he hasn’t lived in a coastal city. “The pace, the nature—I love it,” he

Jamie Kilstein

What: Various times November 25 to November 29 Where: Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy, 5350 E. High Street, Phoenix Ticket: $16-$51.40 Info: az.houseofcomedy.net

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Nearly an acre of fire history exhibits with over 90 fully restored pieces of fire apparatus on display, dating from 1725 to 2004! Visit our website for Storytime Children’s Video, Virtual Tours and more information about Hall of Flame Museum!

HallofFlame.org

6101 East Van Buren St. / Phx AZ 85008 / 602-275-3473

Dental Insurance Call today for all the details.

Get the dental care you deserve with dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. It can help cover the services you’re most likely to use —

1-855-389-4273 Here’s the information you requested on Dental insurance

Cleanings

X-rays

Fillings

Crowns

FIRST-CLASS MAIL

Dentures

Preventive care starts right away Helps cover over 350 services Go to any dentist you want – but save more with one in our network No deductible, no annual maximum Product not available in all states. Includes the Participating Providers and Preventive Benefits Rider. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-888799-4433 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN). Rider kinds B438/B439. 6154-0120

Call now to get this FREE Information Kit!

dental50plus.com/214

YOUTH

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Youth TheFoothillsFocus.com

For more opinions visit thefoothillsfocus.com @TheFoothills.Focus

/TheFoothillsFocus

Dance studio invites youth to perform in Anthem showcase BY BRIDGETTE M. REDMAN Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

he artists at Dynamic Motion Dance Academy want to close out 2020—their 20th anniversary year—with two adjectives that have been in short supply of late: Merry and Bright. To accomplish this, they are opening their doors to all young people ages 4 and older, regardless of experience, to perform in a dance showcase at 3 p.m. Saturday, December 19, to bring joy to the community. It is a no-cut show, meaning any child who registers by December 3 and pays the $100 fee will be guaranteed a part in the recital. Rehearsals for the showcase will run from December 4 to December 18. The recital, according to studio owner Tiffany Fox, will be built around the talents and abilities of everyone who shows up. “We might get some kids with no background,” Fox said. “Whoever we get, that’s fantastic. We will work with them and choreograph around them. This isn’t going to be about who has the highest leg and the biggest pirouettes. It’s more about building community and providing a safe and creative space to spread the spirit of the holidays.” The idea for the show was the brainchild of two studio staff members— Lyndsie Clymer and Tami Jewell. They came to Fox and said that while they knew she was super busy trying to keep the studio afloat during these days of pandemic, completing her master’s thesis and being a single mom to two kids, they wanted to do a Christmas show. “I was like, ‘OK, are you going to do all the choreography?’” Fox said. “Lyndsie

YOUTH

said yes and I said, ‘Let’s do this!’” Clymer has been a part of Fox’s studios since she was 3 years old—she and her twin brother both learned dance from Fox. “She is amazing,” Fox said of Clymer. “I can rely on her for anything. That’s why when she came to me and said this will be a great idea, I said let’s do this. With her at the helm doing choreography, it’s going to be amazing. She’s very special.” She’s hoping that new children will participate in the showcase, Clymer said, but veterans are invited as well. “Dance is a fun way to create and express love and happiness,” Clymer said. “We thought it was the perfect timing to come together for the holidays and spread love and cheer. We really wanted to bring the kids together for the holiday.” With that goal in mind, Clymer wants to create an upbeat, exciting and joyful showcase with an eclectic collection of songs and dances. She turned to some of the studio’s younger students for inspiration. She asked them for their holiday

see DANCE page 27

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

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

NOW OPEN

Trusted care that’s now close to home. Serving north Phoenix and Anthem

Healing and comfort in a state-of-the-art medical center: • 70 inpatient beds • Labor and delivery, including a newborn nursery • Physicians specializing in joint replacement and minimally invasive orthopedic, spine, gynecologic and general surgery procedures

HonorHealth Sonoran Crossing Medical Center

• Outpatient specialty care • 24-hour emergency services for patients of all ages

Learn more and take a virtual tour at HonorHealth.com/SonoranCrossing

YOUTH

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

DANCE from page 25

traditions so she could incorporate them into the choreography. The responses she got ranged from the Elf on a Shelf to driving to Flagstaff to play in the snow. “The songs range from classical hits to new releases,” Clymer said. “There’s a little something for all ages. We’re doing a Frosty the Snowman dance (for the student who likes to play in the snow) and incorporating holiday traditions into the shows and the decorations.” As she puts the showcase together, Clymer said she is keeping the choreography fun and simple so that people of all talent levels can participate. “We want everyone to know that it doesn’t matter if you have a small amount of experience or tons of experience—we want everyone to just have fun and to give people the confidence to either start performing if they haven’t ever done it or keep performing.” Each participant will receive two tickets for guests. Audience numbers will be limited because of COVID-19 precautions. Clymer said if many peo-

ple sign up, they’ll hold two showcases to accommodate the audiences. They’re also breaking the students into three age groups. All will perform at the same show, but they’ll have spacedout rehearsals. As of early November, 15 students signed up and Clymer was hoping they would have 30 to 40 kids. The groups will range from 4 to 7 years old, 8 to 12 and then 13 to 18. In addition to the children, some parents will dance with their kids. “We need positivity right now,” Fox said. “Kids and adults—everybody needs some kind of outlet. I hope we do get some kids who have never danced before or who haven’t come to the studio to see what that is about and how therapeutic dance can be. It’s super therapeutic for the body, mind and soul.” Fox explains that dance can help students cope with the changes in their life due to the pandemic. School has fundamentally changed, and students have to distance and wear masks with limited social interaction during the day. She said kids need a sense of normalcy and a chance to get out from behind the

November Specials!

screens that dominate their school life. “Kids need movement and art right now and the creative outlets to let go of stress and work on themselves because they are sitting in front of a screen all day with school,” Fox said. “Kids come in and they’re so wild because school is weird with wearing masks all day and sitting in spaces not next to each other and not having normal interaction. With dance, they can move and express themselves. It’s super important right now. It’s what kids need.” Audiences will be required to wear masks, but Fox is leaving it up to the individual dancers and their parents whether the students will wear masks. “Some dancers have masks; some do not,” Fox said. “Some parents are not comfortable with them coming without and that’s fine, but for kids that are dancing for four or five hours straight, I do not require masks. It’s very hard for them to breathe. We’re around the same kids every week. All the teachers and front desk are wearing masks.” Clymer is also working a possible livestream of the showcase so those who

GET HOLIDAY READY with our SKIN SCRUB LASER FACIAL (Combines Dermaplaning, ClearLift Yag Laser, and IPL)

249 (reg. $299)

OR package of 4 treatments

FEEL GLAMOROUS AND ALLURING with our

LIPS AND LASHES PACKAGE

649 (reg. $725)

ACNE GOT YOU DOWN?

with Ann Marie D’Onofrio, WHNP-C, MSN

149 (reg. $175)

Get the Clear Skin You Deserve with a

149 (reg. $175)

Buy 2 THERMIVA Vaginal Rejuvenation Treatments

($500 value for free product)

COMPREHENSIVE ACNE CONTROL TREATMENT with Ann Marie D’Onofrio, WHNP-C, MSN

REJUVENATE YOURSELF THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

FREE

SLIM DOWN

COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS APPOINTMENT

When: Rehearsals December 4 to December 18, performance 3 p.m. December 19 Where: 4111 W. Innovative Drive, Building 1, Anthem Cost: $100 per student, includes show T-shirt and two tickets Info: dmdaaz.com

1999

Includes 1 syringe Restylane Kysse Filler and 5ml Latisse

during the Holidays with a

Merry & Bright: A Holiday Dance Showcase

949 (reg. $1196)

don’t feel comfortable coming to the studio can still watch it from a safe distance. In what was supposed to be a celebratory 20th anniversary season for Dynamic Motion Dance Academy, the staff had to scale back on most of their plans because of the pandemic. For a time, all their classes were held virtually. Because of this, the studio wants this showcase to be a time for bringing kids back together in a healthy way. “I’m honestly just excited to work with the kids,” Clymer said. “To me, making memories is the coolest thing. I want to make memories with these kids and end 2020 with positivity—on a good note.”

for Get a Restylane Filler Syringe

BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM TO ZAP THE STRESS OF THE HOLIDAYS with a

MEYERS NUTRIENT IV $ Only 149 FRIDAYS with Ann Marie D’Onofrio, WHNP-C, MSN

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

YOUTH

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Boulder Creek eSports looks for championship BY ANDREW MORGAN Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

Wolbert, an engineering student and Overwatch team captain at n the same morning the Arizo- Boulder Creek, started na Interscholastic Association getting into esports last governing board met to vote on school year. the uncertainty of fall sports across the “I enjoy being able state, Boulder Creek High School senior to play competitively Benjamin Wolbert had no worries. Luck- alongside my friends. It’s ily for him and his teammates, his sport very empowering,” Wolcan be played from home, regardless of bert said. the widespread pandemic. During the COVID-19 Led by Wolbert and his software de- pandemic, esports teams velopment teacher Thomas Clarke, the haven’t been affected, as Boulder Creek esports team is in its they can continue pracfirst year of existence after being start- ticing and playing from ed back in late September. The pro- home. Any student with gram, which sponsors teams that com- access to a computer at pete in Overwatch, League of Legends, home may join a team, Esports participants include Alfred Audish, Drake Stephan and Gary Kujan. (Photo courtesy Thomas Clarke) Fortnite and Rocket League, currently free of cost. has opened the door to more than 20 Just like a traditional students in just over a month, with sport, teams have mandatory practices, help of tournament organizer Play- bert, the Overwatch team captain. “The plans to expand and create more teams scrimmages and games. VS, beginning with a round-robin style game is very competitive.” in the future. The AIA holds two seasons with the bracket that culminates in a playoff seaBoulder Creek’s esports program alson, with the top performing teams win- lows more students to connect and build ning scholarship money. Throughout the a community of like-minded individuals course of the 2020-21 season, PlayVS during the pandemic. plans to award over $900,000 in schol“I am a traditional coach, so it’s inarship money, sponsored by more than teresting to see what that looks like for 170 colleges and universities. esports,” said Thomas Clarke, the cross According to the World Esports Asso- country coach and software developciation, the esports industry is projected ment teacher at Boulder Creek. “My to have a revenue of over $1.5 billion by (computer) programming students are 2023. Audiences have grown drastically, different. Esports really is something as 557 million people across the world that they are passionate about.” watch or play video games in 2019. That “I think we’ve all argued about what number is expected to double by 2024. a sport is, but setting that aside, we all Although the gaming industry releases like competition and enjoy seeing exhundreds of games a year, very few gain cellence and appreciate what it takes a competitive following. to achieve it. (Esports) opens that One of those games is Overwatch. Re- door to more students, which is great,” • Weekly, Bi-weekly, Monthly, Move-in, Move-out, One-time clean leased in 2015 by Blizzard Entertainment, Clarke said. the game grossed $565 million in sales in Currently, there are over 21,000 high • Eco-friendly products on every cleaning just the first year. Since then, the game has schools with esports programs that algrown to over 50 million players, making low more than 117,000 students to comthe game one of the most played in the pete across a variety of games. 20% off your ﬁrst cleaning world. The Overwatch League, Blizzard’s Boulder Creek esports is competing professional esports league, plans to hand in the fall regular season as teams are www.mignmaids.com out a prize pool of over $9.56 million in represented in state and regional tour2021, with the average professional salary naments. at $114,000 per year. The AIA is set to host state champion“I like the playable roles, the charac- ships in January, with more information ters and their interactions,” said Wol- to be announced soon.

YOUR HOME, CLEANED YOUR WAY.

House Cleaning Services

623-522-7662

YOUTH

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

BC lacrosse player �irst to join Division 1 team BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

ince Max Armitage was in elementary school, he’s been dedicated to meeting his goals. Now a senior at Boulder Creek High School, Armitage signed a letter of intent to attend High Point University in North Carolina and play lacrosse for one of the top Division 1 programs in the country. He is the first player from Anthem to commit to a Division 1 college lacrosse team. Armitage is modest about his success. His freshman year at Boulder Creek, he won the most improved award. The following year, he was first team all-state. He said he believes he achieved this because of “lack of experience.” The teen hopes to return to Arizona and show students how to play the game. “Guys like myself and (Brophy College Preparatory’s) Xander Welty, who’s going to Richmond, if we come back to Arizona, we can help advance the game,” Armitage said. “A lot of coaches who come back after playing in college come back to Arizona so (students) can experience the highest level of lacrosse.” His stepfather, lacrosse coach Jeff Wilson, said the growth of lacrosse in Arizona lags behind the rest of the country, forcing most Division 1 college coaches to look elsewhere for talent. “Players like Max need to perform on a national stage at showcase tournaments against the best talent in order to be noticed,” Wilson said. “He did so over three years from California to Virginia, catching the eye of several coaches until High Point reached out to him.” Armitage began his lacrosse career with the North Valley Predators youth lacrosse club through Boulder Creek Lacrosse Club. “I started in fifth grade—six or seven years ago,” Armitage said. “My stepdad moved here from Boston, and he was a coach. I asked him one day what he was doing, and he showed me how to play.” Wilson said Armitage committed hundreds of hours practicing on his own in addition to working with his team.

Max Armitage will attend High Point University in North Carolina in the fall of 2021 to play lacrosse. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

“Commitment to his goal of playing Division 1 lacrosse in college never wavered and, as a result, his No. 1 college team choice offered him a spot on the team,” Wilson said. Armitage said he enjoys the game be-

cause it blends several sports. “I’ve always wanted to play and get better,” he said. “At the end of the day, it’s just so much fun.” The son of Dave Armitage and Sheri Armitage, the teen will play his senior season with Boulder Creek Lacrosse Club this spring and will compete for a state title. He’ll join High Point’s team in the fall of 2021. “I’m kind of nervous about it, but I’m so excited,” Armitage said. “I didn’t think it was possible to go to High Point. I almost crossed them out. I didn’t think it was possible. Visiting it was different. I love the Southern accents, and the people around were so nice.” Armitage is pleased he met his goals. “I made my first goal, which was to play varsity lacrosse,” he said. “Then it was to start varsity. I just kept updating my goal once I achieved them. Right now, I want to make it in High Point and handle schoolwork. I just want to start and, ultimately, make an impact on the team.”

DID YOU KNOW?

We also install gas lines for BBQs!

Let us help you with ALL your plumbing and AC needs

14 YEARS IN BUSIN

ESS

5000* OFF

623.582.1117 VALLEY WIDE SERVICE ROC #221431 #274551

A Family owned company residing in 85085

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

A NEW WATER HEATER INSTALL OR GAS LINE INSTALL *Call for details.

CLASSIFIEDS AND SERVICE DIRECTORY Air Conditioning/Heating

Business/Professionalb Services Local general practice law firm.

AZ PERFECT COMFORT A/C & Heating Services Info@azperfect comfort.com

(602)789-3000 azperfectcomfort.com

HOME FOR RENT? Place it here! 81% of our readers, read the Classifieds!

Call Classifieds 480-898-6465

Free case evaluation for personal injury matters. Experienced attorneys and effective representation. 623-551-9366

Cleaning Services Affordable, dependable, professional. Household/Residential Cleaning. Anthem Owned. Bonded/ Insured. Call 623-825-6364. Visit ValleyMaid.com

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

Announcements

CLASSIFIEDS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

thefoothillsfocus.com

To place an ad: 480-898-6465 class@timespublications.com Employment General

Looking for a Water Treatment Technician, plumbing skills helpful, good wages and benefits: Contact Pete @ 623-680-1671

Electrical Services

HEATING • COOLING REPAIRS RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ROC#327221

Serving Anthem, New River, Desert Hills, Carefree, North Phoenix, Cave Creek & Black Canyon City

623-414-2544

Owner: Cayce Sahr | Ofﬁce Mgr: Dawn Kelley

evercool06@gmail.com

10% Discount for Veterans! Cleaning Services

Handyman

Anthem's Most Trusted Electrical Experts ProSkill Services. 623-562-3500 ROC#322328

Your newspaper. Your community. Your planet. Please recycle me.

Drywall

Air Conditioning/Heating

Deadline: Wednesday at 5pm for the following Wednesday

Anthem’s “Honey-Do” List Specialists • Light Electrical • Garbage Disposals • Light Plumbing • Smoke Detectors • Drywall & Stucco Repairs • Exhaust Fans • Thermostats • & Much More • Television Mounts • INSURED ray@2h4h.com ◆ 602-799-4842 twohandsforhire.com

DONALDSON DRYWALL 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

Electrical Services

602-615-6456 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE Bonded and Insured Free Estimates Concrete & Masonry

H errera’s M asonry LLC

Block Walls • Stucco Repairs • BBQ • Fireplace Concrete • Ret-Walls • Flower Beds • Iron Gates Licensed & Bonded ROC #154346

Free Estimates

Office: 480-575-7245 • Armando: 602-763-3696

For AllYour Electric Needs

HAWKEYE LANDSCAPING INC 85085 local company. Doing business for over 22 years. ROC CR-21138105, ROCB-3284133. Providing all your custom design and installation needs. 623-582-1122 HawkeyeCustom Landscaping.com

People are looking at the Classifieds Every day! Email Your Job Post to: class@times publications.com or Call

480-898-6465

Irrigation ROC#215280

Health & Beauty

THE GLO ROOM Grand Opening

30% Off Your First Treatment CLINICAL FACIALS CHEMICAL PEELS WAXING

MEDICAL GRADE SKINCARE ACNE SPECIALIST

Located off the I-17/Carefree Hwy

Call Sharon at

HIRING?

Landscape Design/Installation

Licensed Aesthetician | 10 Years Experience IG@thegloroom_bynatasha Call or Text 623-469-8922 to schedule an appt.

Irrigation

& Landscape est. 2002 ~ Anthem, Arizona

Install • Repair • Replace

623-203-7717 Landscape Design/Installation

Licensed - Bonded - Insured • Over 20 Years Experience

FREE ESTIMATES Senior Discounts

Irrigation

480-502-6871 or 623-869-6019

602.842.9948

ReliantElectricAZ.com

SonoranScapes.com

ROC#146796

Landscape Installation

Glass/Mirror • Custom Glass • Shower Doors & Enclosures • Window Glass Replacement • Custom Mirrors • Glass Table Tops & Shelves Come and visit our custom glass showroom behind the Dairy Queen in Cave Creek.

480-235-6101

www.aboveandbeyondglass.com ROC 233846 & ROC 236899

• Design & Install • Planting • Lighting • Outdoor Audio

• Synthetic Grass • Paver Installation • Travertine • Irrigation Systems

Landscape Maintenance • Monthly maintenance • As needed clean ups

• Tree Trimming • Residential & Commercial

Sell Your Stuff! Call Classifieds Today! 480.898.6465

CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED ROC - 268551

CLASSIFIEDS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Landscape/Maintenance

AZCAN

DUKES EXCAVATING

J&B Furniture

Over $10K in debt? Be debt free in 24-48 months. Pay a fraction of what you owe. A+ BBB rated. Call National Debt Relief 866541-6885. (AzCAN)

SAVE BIG on HOME INSURANCE! Compare 20 A-rated insurances companies. Get a quote within minutes. Average savings of $444/year! Call 855602-7212! (M-F 8am8pm Central) (AzCAN)

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts – Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees canceled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 866-482-0406 (AzCAN)

NEED NEW FLOORING? Call Empire Today® to schedule a FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting & Flooring. Call Today! 877591-3539 (AzCAN)

CONSIGNMENT

WE SELL NEW and GENTLY USED FURNITURE & HOME DECOR 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

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

623.551.4135 Rooﬁng

Sprinkler Repair Landscaping & More!

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

No Job Too Big or Small

Residential & Commercial

PHILLIPS ROOFING LLC Member of ABM

Licensed • Bonded • Insured ROC 223367

Valleywide

CR 42 DUAL

623-873-1626 All employees verified Free estimates on all roofs 36 Years experience in AZ Licensed contractor since 2006

602-330-6965

Your Septic System Experts

Complete Septic Systems • Conventional & Alternative and Repairs

Almeida Roofing Inc.

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

Licensed, Bonded & Insured • ROC #166390

CALL CLASSIFIEDS

480-898-6465

We'll Get Your Phone to Ring! We Accept:

Classifieds 480-898-6465

NEED NEW WINDOW TREATMENTS? Call Empire Today® to schedule a FREE inhome estimate on blinds & shades. Call Today! 844-247-3111 (AzCAN)

Public Notices Local general practice law firm. Free case evaluation for personal injury matters. Experienced attorneys and effective representation. 623-551-9366

Welding

All Types of Roofing

602-743-3175

Licensed • Bonded • Insured • ROC #215758

Licensed • Bonded • Insured COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL

FREE ESTIMATES • 623-465-2546

PREMIER LANDSCAPING & GARDENING

Rooﬁng

www.almeidaroofing.com

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

Mobile

DONATE YOUR CAR TO CHARITY. Receive maximum value of write off for your taxes. Running or not! All conditions accepted. Free pickup. Call for details. 866-932-4184 (AzCAN)

Free Estimates & Inspections • Tile • Shingles Foam • Coatings • Modiﬁed Bitumen • New Roof Repairs • Reroofs

KIB EXCAVATING

602.319.1089

Attention Active Duty & Military Veterans! Begin a new career and earn your Degree at CTI! Online Computer & M e d i c a l t r a i n i ng available for Veterans & Families! To learn more, call 855-6267941 (M-F 8am-6pm ET) (AzCAN)

Cave Creek Welding, Inc.

Electric • Acetylene • Heliarc Equipment • Fireplace Screens Repair • Blacksmithing Portable Equipment • Gates Fencing • Wrought Iron Work Home Accessories • Small Repairs & More!

480-488-3677

CaveCreekWelding.com

Well Drilling & Repairs phillipsroofingaz.com phillipsroofing@cox.net

SERVICE DIRECTORY

480-898-6465 We'll Get Your Phone to Ring!

Specializing in Water Well Drilling and Pump Installation and Service (including well inspections)

25+ Years in New River

Solar Energy

REASONS TO GO SOLAR • Power When The Power Goes Out • Federal & AZ Tax Credits Available • Smaller Electric Bills • 0 Down Financing 2.99% or CASH Disount

Questions on Solar?

Commerical & Residential

Call Paul

602-501-0787 Paul.M@Solar-AES.com

623-465-9355 www.beemanbrothersdrilling.com

Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC 064267 Major Credit Cards Accepted

CALL CLASSIFIEDS

480-898-6465

We'll Get Your Phone to Ring! We Accept:

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | NOVEMBER 25, 2020

Why Invest in a REME-Halo?

Installed Price:

Benefits Include:

• Whole home and building purification • Kills up to 99% of bacteria, mold and viruses • Reduces sneeze germs by 99% in the time a sneeze can reach 3 ft • Reduces airborne particulates (dust, dander, pollen, mold spores)

Learn more by Scanning Here

Schedule for a Furnace Safety Inspection

Membership Price:

Includes:

• • • •

Calibrate Gas Valve Clean Flame Sensor Electrical Component Test Check and Clean Gas Burner

$79.00 Normally

Call or Text to Schedule an Appointment

AIR

CONDITIONING

•

ELECTRICAL

•

PLUMBING

•

WATER

TREATMENT