Gilbert Sun News - 01.24.2021 by Times Media Group

CUSD faces $12M budget hit

Gilbert woman’s ‘micro-school’

PAGE 6

PAGE 31

An edition of the East Valley Tribune

INSIDE

This Week

HEALTH & WELLNESS

COMMUNITY......... 19 Gilbert author’s moose books a kids’ delight.

GETOUT..................... 28 Gilbert couple bring Venezuelan cuisine to EV.

COMMUNITY....................................... 19

BUSINESS..............................................31 SPORTS.......................................33

PUZZLE.......................................34

GETOUT................................................. 35 CLASSIFIED..........................................36

FREE ($1 OUTSIDE OF GILBERT) | GilbertSunNews.com

Sunday, January 24, 2021

Council OKs more pot restrictions for Gilbert BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

ilbert residents who want an outdoor structure to cultivate their marijuana plants will first need a building permit from the town. Town Council last week approved more restrictions on recreational marijuana, including a limit on certain types of hazardous materials used for marijuana extraction and infusion stored on residential property. “If they were going to put these in a residential situation, we want to make sure we have something in place – either assist people in what they are doing or let them

know a residential location is really not the place for them,” said Fire Marshall Tim Simanton. Arizona voters last November approved Proposition 207, legalizing the adult use, possession and sale of recreational cannabis. It also allows individuals to cultivate up to six marijuana plants in their residences and 12 for households with more than two adults. Under the town’s new code amendment, a permit must be obtained before any detached accessory structure such as a shed is built for marijuana cultivation, extraction or industrial-type processes. The building also must be one-story and

Higley may use budget surplus for staff raises

can’t exceed 200 square feet. Currently in Gilbert, all accessory structures over 200 square feet need a permit. Councilman Laurin Hendrix was not sold on the need to amend the residential building and fire codes and noted it would place a special requirement on someone who is going to cultivate marijuana plants or extract oils from them. “We’re changing the building code to take precaution for ventilation, I guess potentially explosions if you have too much chemicals or whatever stored in a residential facility or an out building,” Hendrix said.

Tiny tee time

see MARIJUANA page 10

BY CASEY FLANAGAN GSN Staff Writer

igley Unified officials expect a budget for the coming school year that will have an additional $7.8 million in spending power and the district may use some of that to give raises to teachers and staff. Tyler Moore, the director of finance, laid out the calculations for as much as a 5-percent pay increase for teachers, administrators and classified workers during the governing board meeting last Wednesday. Proposals also included raises of 1 percent and 3 percent. “District-wide, we are supporting a 5 percent increase to all staff,” Moore said. “We strongly believe that this compensation will increase the ability to retain staff, maintain competitive salaries, and be more competitive with our neighboring districts in attracting teachers.”

see HIGLEY page 4

At age 3, Hendrix Flores wasn’t wasting any time getting a feel for the links on Jan. 16 at McQueen Park, where the Junior Golf Association of Arizona held its 2021 Itty Bitty Open to introduce kids under 5 to the duffer’s life. (Pablo Robles/GSN Staff Photographer)

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

#1 Rated Shop in the East Valley

Thank You for voting us

BEST AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

Your Trusted European Car Specialists

We at Huffs Automotive are specialists in: Se Habla • BMW • Land Rover • Mini Cooper Español • Jaguar • Volkswagen • Audi • Mercedes Benz • Porsche

CALL NOW!

FREE

FULL VEHICLE INSPECTION $150 Value! Must mention ad when making appointment.

NOW HIRING

AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR TECHNICIAN Experienced & Entry-Level Call 480-726-8900 Or Submit Resume at huffsautomotive@yahoo.com

Serving Chandler & the East Valley for over 10 Years • Family Owned and Operated

95 N. Dobson Rd. • Chandler, AZ 85224 480-726-8900 • huffsautomotive.com info@huffsautomotive.com

Call For An Appointment!

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

An edition of the East Valley Tribune Gilbert Sun News is published every Sunday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout Gilbert.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Main number: 480-898-6500 | Advertising: 480-898-5624 Circulation service: 480-898-5641 Publisher:

Steve T. Strickbine

Vice President:

Michael Hiatt

ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT

Display Advertising:

480-898-6309

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@evtrib.com Advertising Sales Executive:

Jane Meyer | 480-898-5633 | jane@timespublications.com NEWS DEPARTMENT

Executive Editor:

Paul Maryniak | 480-898-5647 | pmaryniak@timespublications.com Managing Editor:

Cecilia Chan | 480-898-5613 |cchan@timespublications.com Reporters:

Jim Walsh | 480-898-5639 | jwalsh@timespublications.com Kevin Reagan | 480-898-5638 | kreagan@timespublications.com Get Out Editor:

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski | 480-898-5631 christina@timespublications.com Photographer:

Pablo Robles | probles@timespublications.com Design:

Christy Byerly | cbyerly@timespublications.com Production Coordinator:

Courtney Oldham | 480-898-5617 production@timespublications.com Circulation Director:

Aaron Kolodny | 480-898-5641 | customercare@evtrib.com Sports Editor: Zach Alvira | 480-898-5630 | zalvira@timespublications.com Gilbert Sun News 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

NEWS

Gilbert Realtor leads big ICAN upgrade GSN NEWS STAFF

ilbert Realtor Mindy Jones Nevarez saw a need for teens in Chandler – and rallied local businesses to fill it. And last week, teens who consider ICAN’s nationally accredited teen center their second home got to see the fruit of her efforts. Nevarez, owner of the real estate team Amy Jones Group, saw a chance to give back after a recent visit to showcase the center in a Facebook live video. “I left ICAN with the feeling that we needed to give it some love. Turns out, their own renovation plans were stalled by lack of funding,” she said. The Amy Jones Group partnered with businesses to update the center to better serve the up to 150 at-risk kids who use it daily. Those businesses included Fidelity National Title, Complete Home Renovations, IronDrive, Elite Shutters and Blinds, Fairway Independent Mortgage and Spice Up Your Home. Teens helped clear the room and then Nevarez’s group turned it into a vibrant new space. Her volunteers marked a MLK Day of Service by installing new Chromebooks, TVs, furniture, flooring and other amenities at the ICAN Teen Center. “We’re lucky to partner with local businesses who love giving back, and who understand what we do to foster our community – our home – will come back tenfold,” Nevarez said. “We hope the teens who use the space to get homework help and as a safe haven where they can develop healthy life skills feel this support in their new space.” ICAN creates programs to tackle substance abuse, gang involvement and support the teens’ families. Seven out of 10 teens who visit the center live in extreme poverty, four will go to bed hungry tonight and two will be gang affiliated by age 12. She noted that as the pandemic continues, the upgraded space will enable

Gilbert Realtor Mindy Jones Nevarez, a Gilbert Sun News commentator on Gilbert’s housing market scene, is flanked by ICAN CEO Shelby Peterson and Dan White as they welcomed teens to the nonprofit’s revamped teen center. (Pablo Robles/GSN Photographer) ICAN “to positively impact the lives of even more teens and their families.” Nevarez agreed. “We are so grateful for the support that ICAN provides to our kids and wanted to find a special way to give back to them and our future generations. We hope the work we do will inspire others to keep their eyes open for how they can help someone else,” she said. Nevarez had visited the ICAN Youth Center last month for The Amy Jones Group’s “Live Love Local” series, a video series that features businesses within the Southeast Valley. IronDrive, a family business offering quality flooring installations, prepped the floors. Complete Home Renovations, a one-stop-shop for repairs and home-remodeling services, put in new vinyl flooring, painted, and assisted with any additional repairs. Elite Shutters and Blinds, a full-service window covering company, provided new window coverings. Fairway Independent Mortgage, a Top 10

ranked national mortgage lender, purchased new technology for the room and a fridge. The Amy Jones Group, in partnership with Fidelity National Title, which provides title insurance and other real estate-related products and services, purchased new furniture, including couches, conference tables, storage and desks. The final decor pieces were donated by Spice Up Your Home, a Chandler-based furniture and staging store. “This project will help ICAN continue its mission of giving teens a safe place to go after school that not only keeps them off the streets and out of trouble but teaches them real-life skills that encourage academic success and career development,” an ICAN spokeswoman said. The Amy Jones Group of Keller Williams Integrity First is an all-female company of real estate professionals that has helped thousands of families buy and sell homes. For more Information: amyjonesgroup.com and icanaz.org.

NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

HIGLEY from page 1

The news puts Higley’s anticipated financial picture for the coming year in far better shape than most of its neighbors, whose budgets have been battered by enrollment declines in the classroom and the state’s lower reimbursement rate for students participating in virtual learning. The district lost an estimated 150 students this academic year. Moore said the students were mostly from the lower grades and that a flat enrollment growth was projected for 2021-22. “When I have been in conversations with superintendents across the state in multiple meetings the conversation is not about pay increases,” Associate Superintendent Dawn Foley said. “In fact, in discussions they look at me like have I added that correctly? But every district is in a different position.” Should the district go with the 5 percent hike, which would cost $3.5 million, Moore said Higley would be left with around $4.3 million to spare, which he said is still “very healthy” and well within the district’s guidelines for budget bal-

ancing. Human Resources Executive Director Mum Martens said a compensations study was done last year and though not comparable, HUSD is in competition for employees with the Tempe and Chandler school districts and Gilbert Public Schools. “As Mr. Moore mentioned in regards to that 5 percent and still having a healthy balance, we believe it’s something that we strongly have to look into if we are going to continue all of those things he mentioned in terms of being competitive and letting our employees know the value we have for them, especially given the timeframe of which we are in,” Martens said. “So, to be able to do something like that, I think will be valuable and telling in regards to their efforts and the things they have done.” Board Vice President Jill Wilson asked if the 5 percent was enough. “Will this make us more competitive to get those first-year teachers in and some of those other teachers,” she asked. “If not should we think about a bigger in-

AFTER

BEFORE

Is Your Pool In Need of a Makeover? We’re the Pool Resurfacing Experts!

Let us help you create the pool of your drea ms!

% OFF

Tile Cleaning Expires January 31, 2021

BRING IN A WATER SAMPLE FOR A FREE ANALYSIS

SEE STORE FOR DETAILS

Pool Resurfacing Experts Specializing in POOL SERVICE, MAINTENANCE & REPAIR

602-546-POOL (7665)

www.barefootpoolman.com Ahwatukee!

Ahwatukee!

1241 E. Chandler Blvd., Ste. 124, Phoenix, AZ 85048

(SW corner of Desert Foothills Parkway & Chandler Blvd.)

Thank you for voting us an Ahwatukee’s “Best Of” Pool Service Company 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2018!

Ahwatukee Owned & Operated Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC# 272001

crease? I think our teachers maybe need more.” Dr. Foley said being competitive is huge but staff did not look at anything beyond the 5 percent increase. “Would we recommend more at this moment?” Foley said. “We haven’t figured the calculation for that. Obviously we always want to be competitive and pay our teachers as much as we can possibly pay them, pay all of our employees as much as we can but these are the figures that we feel comfortable bringing to you with what we know at the moment with the budget we have. “We wanted you to see tonight as a board we have some decisions to make and that we could be talking about potential increases safely, while still having a balance remaining for some of the unknowns, uncertain things that we will still be navigating.” The board is expected to vote on the proposed raises March 10. The district also planned to use some of the extra money to pay for a 10-percent increase in medical insurance, changes of insurance for property casualty and workers compensation and additional funds to provide employees with stipends, Moore said. Revisions to this year’s budget include reduction of funding for online learning by about $3 million. Moore said this reduction is made with the anticipation that students will return to in-person instruction by the second half of the school year. Because of the pandemic, the district is offering remote learning as well as in-person instruction. HUSD also has been working to officially launch the virtual Higley Academy, which had a soft introduction this year, Foley said. She said the district is building program administration and working on proficiency standards for the fully online K-12 academy, which is independent of any campus within the district. Foley said the state may fund the virtual academy differently from the way it funds other online learning modes. She also stressed that demand for the academy will drive staffing and its over-

all budget and that parents interested in the online academy should let the district know. Foley said the program is moving forward quickly and she expected it to be operational by next school year. HUSD was one of the few East Valley districts without a virtual academy. As of Jan. 21, the district reported 11,336 students enrolled for in-person learning and 1,486 for remote. Meanwhile, Martens told the board that availability of substitute teachers is about 20 percent lower than previous years. That problem is yet another result of concern over COVID-19 that nearly all school districts in the state are confronting. “Those that are in our sub pool aren’t interested in working right now because of COVID, so at times there’s been a little more pressure in that regard,” Martens said. Conversely, Martens said, regular teacher attendance rate has remained roughly the same as previous years. Martens said the district is searching for ways to encourage substitute teachers to work and increase their fill rate for the next school year. Martens said this school year, the district hired its first-ever “rescue subs.” These special substitute teachers are deployed if there are absences for COVID-related and other reasons, Martens said. “Most of the time, we’ve needed to use those rescue subs across the district. Sometimes we’ve deployed them from one site to another site, depending on the fill-rate at the other sites,” Martens said. The board also was informed of possibility this November of a maintenance-and-operation bond, which would pay for things such as salaries and supplies. No figure was given by staff on the size of the proposed bond but the board will have to call for a bond election no later than June 9. Also at the meeting, Kristina Reese was voted in as board president and Wilson as board vice president. Reese also served as president in 2019.

Your news 24/7 • www.GilbertSunNews.com

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

Virtual learning could cost CUSD another $12M BY KEVIN REAGAN GSN Staff Writer

irtual learning cost the Chandler Unified School District $12 million this school year and eventually result in the layoff of nearly 200 employees. Though many teachers and some families have been advocating virtual learning over opening classrooms, CUSD officials said online instruction has already had a financial impact on the district’s budget. The cost is driven partly by lower state reimbursements for online students and partly by an enrollment loss. Virtually every East Valley district has lost enrollment this school year, and to some extent what happened to those students is unknown. Estimates are that as many as 40,000 students across the state simply dropped out and are not on enrollment rolls for either public or charter schools. Per-pupil state reimbursement is 5 percent lower than what the state gives districts for each student in the classroom. Gov. Doug Ducey’s proposed 2021-22 budget indicates he won’t be equalizing those rates despite pleas by

This chart shows how enrollment in Chandler Unified schools has dropped in recent months. (Courtesy of CUSD) school administrators across the state. Chandler Unified officials expected the enrollment decline to hit their spending plans but now the district released details on the impact of the lower reimbursement for online students. The pandemic forced CUSD to keep schools closed until mid-September, meaning the district stands to lose about $12 million due to the number of days students weren’t physically in

classrooms. “This has been a huge hit,” said Lana Berry, the district’s chief financial officer. Berry said Chandler’s current financial situation could potentially result in the elimination of 186 staff positions during the next school year. The district will spend the next couple of months reviewing its personnel and expenditures to see how it might make a major reduction in staffing, she added.

“Everybody recognizes that this property will be developed,” said Tracey Warner-Hein, who lives in the countyisland community of Brooks Farm in Gilbert. “Change will come. “But the proposal is not the development we moved here for. This land is already zoned. We made our home investments knowing the existing zoning.” She said the proposed rezoning was too dense and didn’t fit the surrounding area. She also told the Council there is a petition with over 150 Brooks Farm property owners opposed to the change in land use. “This is simply a business transaction to them. But I ask you to put yourself, your family into my home,” Warner-

Hein said. “I can not just move. I moved with the existing zoning. There’s very little acreage available in Queen Creek for sale and there are apartments in development at every corner.” She offered suggestions, such as limiting the apartments to one-story and restricting the Brooks Farm entrance to emergency vehicles only. “Rezoning the land could set precedence for others to rezone their lands,” she said. “Please preserve the local quality of life for the surrounding area.” Warner-Hein was one of six people who spoke against the rezone at the meeting. “This has been a year and a half,” said attorney W. Ralph Pew, who represented

Tough decisions will likely have to be made by administrators in the 20212022 budget unless enrollment numbers quickly reverse and return back to prepandemic levels. “Without that, we can’t fund certain programs and staffing at the levels we currently have,” Berry said. In December, the district reduced its budget by $13 million because of an unforeseen drop in enrollment. More than 2,300 students left CUSD over this last year as the district continuously shifted between virtual and in-person instruction. Parents lamented the district’s inconsistency and many threatened to pull their children out and take them to a charter school. Other families reported not feeling safe about sending their children back to school now that CUSD has returned to in-person learning and have made plans to enroll them someplace else. Chandler’s elementary schools have experienced some of the district’s biggest drops in enrollment. As of this month, the district has more than 2,700 fewer K-6 students than it had in 2018.

see CUSD page 7

Gilbert residents lose fight against QC rezoning BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

mixed-density development with 338 homes and 240 multi-family units in Queen Creek got the green light to build despite opposition – including from county-island residents in Gilbert – over issues such as traffic congestion and density. Town Council last Wednesday voted 6-1 to approve Sossaman Holdings’ request to rezone its 147 acres at the southwest corner of Ocotillo and Power roads for the project. The project is the latest in Sossaman Holdings’ development of the area, which includes Sossaman Estates, Sossaman 300 and Legado.

the landowner. “We’ve done what we can to bring a good project consistent with the General Plan and consistent with the growth area and we’ve tried to accommodate our neighbors. “I know we’ve not done as much as they would want us to have done but we’ve done what we can to still preserve a good project.” Sossaman Farms West included 18.36 acres for 240 multi-family units, about 118 acres for 338 single-family homes and 9 acres for light commercial uses. The two primary entrances are proposed at Power and at Ocotillo roads and an ancillary entrance along Brooks

see ZONING page 8

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

CUSD from page 6

“We knew we were going to decline in elementary (enollment) but not at the rate that we have,” Berry said. By contrast, high schools have seen enrollment grow by more than 300 students over the last year. But the growth is not enough to supplement the lost seen in lower grade levels. The enrollment loss combined with funding disparities has left the district feeling uncertain about its near future and increasingly dependent on the state government to come up with some sort of intervention. According to the Arizona Department of Education, the state’s districts have collectively lost $266 million because of the lower funding rate that’s applied to virtual instruction. Ducey announced last summer that

NEWS

school districts could receive additional grant funding to offset the enrollment shortfalls seen throughout Arizona during the pandemic. The state set aside $370 million from its allocation of federal pandemic relief money to be doled out among Arizona’s 230 school districts. CUSD had expected to get a $20-million grant from the governor’s relief program, but Berry said the district ended up with $14 million due to limited resources. “The need across the state was more than this $370 million that was allocated,” Berry said. “We heard it was closer to $600 million.” CUSD also has had to grapple with several unexpected costs accrued during its response to the pandemic. The district has had to spend more than $18.5

million on technology, protective gear and cleaning supplies to keep schools operating while the virus continued to spread. CUSD has so far has received only $3 million to cover its mitigation costs. The district is hoping the Arizona Legislature may intervene soon and revise funding formulas to account for the millions of dollars taken out of Chandler’s budget. “We could see a revision with less of a hit and we’re hoping our legislators eventually could maybe remove or change this,” Berry added. It is not yet clear how state leaders may address education funding gaps, especially because Gov. Ducey recently indicated he doesn’t want to pay for “empty seats” in classrooms.

District leaders have expressed concerns over Chandler’s budget woes and remain hopeful the issue may be resolved if enrollment numbers get back to where they were less than a year ago. “Our budget problems would be solved if we get the kids back,” said Governing Board President Barbara Mozdzen. “It won’t be solved if we don’t.” Board member Joel Wirth, a former CUSD administrator, said he cannot recall a time during his 37-year tenure when the district faced the prospect of laying off so many employees. “I don’t think we’ve ever experienced having to lay off 186 staff members,” Wirth said. “Hopefully, those individuals will find a job.”

New sewage plant opens for S. Gilbert

GSN NEWS STAFF

newly completed expansion of the Greenfield Water Reclamation Plant will help handle the sewage from anticipated growth in south Gilbert. The plant, located near Greenfield and Germann roads, is jointly owned by the town, Mesa and Queen Creek. Mesa maintains and operates the plant, which originally opened in 2007 ,and was constructed by McCarthy Building Companies in a joint venture with Sundt Construction. McCarthy Building said the cost for the Phase III expansion came in at $170 million. “We paid 32.2 percent but it’s not that simple,” town spokeswoman Jennifer Harrison explained. “The estimated total costs for the plan expansion are a total of $209 million with Gilbert’s proportional share being $67.73 million. This is inclusive of engineering, construction management, and construction services.” Harrison said how much each municipality paid was based on assets and ownership percentages. The plant generally serves south Gilbert, which is still developing. About

The massive Greenfield Water Reclamation plant project recently was completed by McCarthy Building Companies. (Special to GSN)

12,000 housing units in the Greenfield zone are planned for under the town’s last master plan completed in 2018, according to Harrison. According to a 2017 report prepared for Gilbert, the Greenfield service area was projected to receive 74 percent of the town’s new population, or 40,344 people. The Neely Water Reclamation Plant, which serves northwest Gilbert, was expected to see an increase by 14,444 people. Gilbert is expected to reach build-out by 2030 with 330,000 residents. Although there was a recommendation for the plant’s final expansion to come in 2028, Harrison said at this time there is no scheduled date to do that. “The 2028 date is based on the efforts around the recommendation for the current expansion and is a topic of discussion for the partners,” she said. “The next expansion would be driven by the balanced needs of all three partners – exact timing is as of yet unknown.” Gilbert also has to pay Mesa for operating the plant, with this fiscal year’s share of the cost coming in at $3.77 mil-

see WATER page 16

NEWS

ZONING from page 6

Farm Road, east of 182nd Street. The proposed rezoning for Sossaman Farms West averaged out to 3.9 dwelling units per acre for the entire development, according to Pew. The Planning and Zoning Commission in December voted 5-1 to recommend Council approved the rezone with conditions, including limiting the heights of the multi-family units to two stories and limiting the homes built along the western and southern perimeters to one-story. Commissioner Steve Sossaman, a principal with Sossaman Holdings was absent from that December meeting. Pew said the zoning for the site is 22 years old and is designated in the town’s General Plan for medium-density development and was never for rural residential density or low-density. And, he reminded Council the site is identified as one of the town’s 10 growth areas. He also informed Council how residents concerns have been addressed so far. For instance, he said the Trilogy at Power Ranch community across the street in Gilbert complained about

Good deed

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

losing privacy with the apartment development but that won’t be an issue with a 206-foot separation and landscaping in place. Also, residents have voiced concerns with safety with the increased traffic coming out on the Brooks Farm Road entrance and going to 180th and 182nd streets, which lack sidewalks and other improvements. Pew said there are solutions, including putting in an “inverse pork chop” road design at the entrance, preventing leaving cars from turning west and down those country streets. Vice Mayor Julia Wheatley, the sole dissenter, said the proposed project was unique and acknowledged its attributes such as its future pedestrian connection of the Sonoqui Creek Wash, which runs through the property. She added she’s read all the emails, studied the board minutes and drove the area and noted the residents’ concerns were valid. She said she was comfortable with the zoning for commercial the increase in zoning for the residential was “jumping three to four zones higher.” “The density doesn’t make sense,” she

Nathan Paddock, owner of Valley Canvas in Queen Creek, left, and Jess Sheehan last week painted outdated gray bathrooms pink at Augusta Ranch Elementary School, a Gilbert Public Schools campus in Mesa. Paddock volunteered the labor and paint after Tiffany Bodeman, an instructional and reading coach at the campus, told him how volunteer efforts to repaint the bathrooms fell through twice. The two are neighbors. Bodeman explained that school maintenance will repair and replace stuff around school but beautification projects such as new paint are up to individual campuses to fund. (Pablo Robles/GSN Staff Photographer

said, adding it would set precedence. “I really feel Queen Creek can do better.” The majority of the Council, however, supported the proposal. Councilman Robin Benning acknowledged Sossaman Holdings’ concessions such as reducing building heights, which he said will go a long way in addressing resident concerns. Benning added he would like to solve the traffic conundrum and not funnel more traffic onto Brooks Farm Road but he struggled with why anyone would go west on that road when Power Road will be three lanes down to Chandler Heights when this project gets going. “I’m not sure I understand what’s the attraction of zooming through a dirt road (in a) small, rural neighborhood when you can use a wide arterial,” he said. Newly seated Councilwoman Leah Martineau said she sympathized with the residents’ concerns but that she sided with property rights. The applicant has done a good job listening and making changes and the safety challenges will be handled, she said. Councilwoman Emilena Turley said

safety is the town’s priority and that residents’ concerns with it for the project will be addressed. She also said she appreciated the Sossaman family for what they’ve done for the community and their land donations. She added they have followed the rules and her record is voting on the side of property rights. “Growth happens,” she said, adding the proposed rezone was in alignment with the General Plan. She said had people done their homework before moving to their homes, they would have seen the zoning for the site, which has been in existence in the General Plan since 1989. She said the applicant has gone over and beyond with compromises for the project and she saw it a duty for Council to follow the voter-approved General Plan. “So I’m in full support. Growth is tough but growth is good and I’m grateful for it,” she said. “It’s the reason why we are having a flourishing community and stakeholders and business owners won’t want to come if they feel they’ll get slapped down at the end of an almost two-year venture.”

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

NO WEEKEND OR AFTER HOUR FEES Sales • Service • Repair • Installation One Hour Emergency Service Avaibale! Family Owned

FREE Service Call

We Service All Makes & Models

FREE 2nd Opinion

with any repair

on Unit Replacement or Compressor Change out

NO COMM T ISSION BASE D

IP NO TRGE R A CH

CALL TODAY

480.671.0833

ROC#247803 Bonded • Insured

Serving Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gold Canyon, Tempe

NEWS

MARIJUANA from page 1

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

He said he didn’t understand how staff would think anyone would comply with the proposed code. “I don’t see anybody coming to the town and saying, ‘I need a permit so I can go put up a building behind my home so I can grow my marijuana plants and extract oils from them,” Hendrix said. “Do we think that people who are operating legally under the proposition that the state passed, we think that they’re going to call the town and say. ‘Hey, I’ve decided to take advantage of this.’” “I suspect what is really behind this is we are trying to find some way to subvert the recent proposition that we just passed allowing marijuana plants to be grown by individuals,” added Hendrix, a former state Republican legislator. “And if that is what we are doing and that is the explanation. I don’t know if I have a problem with that.” Hendrix, who said he voted against Proposition 207, questioned if the town could even enforce the new require-

ments. “If somebody is not going to apply for a permit, they’re not going to tell us they are doing this,” he said. He said in conversations with staff, he was informed violators would be caught by a neighborhood complaint or by police checking on another matter at residences. “Maybe law enforcement shows up and sees a 55-gallon drum of some kind of chemical in the back room,” Hendrix said. “Then our form of enforcement would be secondary after we have been there for another reason.” He said he was concerned if there was a true emergency, such as a domestic violence incident, that someone not complying with the new codes might be reluctant to call for help. “Because they’re going to say, ‘well, we’ve got six marijuana plants we’re growing legally but we don’t have the right ventilation or we don’t have the right explosion-proof lights’ or whatever else is being required here,” Hendrix

said. “Are we going to be discouraging those people from using these types of services? If they are, I’ve got a challenge with that.” As for the storing of explosive chemicals, Hendrix said there are already laws on the book to address that. “You can’t produce dynamite in your house now,” he said. “I don’t know what we are gaining here.” Hendrix also raised concerns with property rights. “The idea of somebody going into a home and there’re some minimal levels of property rights we all enjoy and we want to retain,” he said. “I don’t support anything about this proposition but I don’t want anybody coming into my home and looking around to see if I got the right can of deodorant in my bathroom and I don’t see this as a big step from that.” Hendrix asked to table the item so he could get more information, saying that otherwise, he would have to vote against

it that night. “As it stands without more information to help me understand how we would enforce it, why anybody would use it, and how in the world the building code could come into play, I don’t see the benefits of having this on the books,” he said. According to a staff report, current town codes address these types of practices on a commercial level but residential codes are silent on the cultivation, extraction and infusion of plants in general. And, while these processes can be accomplished in a safe manner with proper equipment and procedures in place, these processes can also be quite hazardous to individuals as well as surrounding properties when proper equipment and protocols are lacking, according to the report. Simanton said for those who don’t call for a permit, “they are in violation if we

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

provide medical marijuana. These are facilities where the owners and the employees already have been vetted by the state. All this is a direct result of passage of Proposition 207. Approved by a 3-2 margin, it allows anyone 21 and older to possess up to an ounce of marijuana or six plants. Only thing is, there is not yet a place where Arizonans who do not already have a card as a medical marijuana user can legally purchase it. That is what will change once the state approves the new recreational licenses, making flowers, edibles and other mixtures as available as a head of lettuce – sort of. It still requires presentation of a state-recognized identification card proving age, though that does not have to be from Arizona. And there’s that one-ounce limit. Attorney Ryan Hurley of Copperstate Farms acknowledged that nothing in the law tracks individual sales to the

point that one dispensary can find out if another one just sold an ounce of the drug to the same buyer. Possession of more than an ounce remains illegal, though anything up to 2 1/2 ounces is a petty offense, subject only to a fine. The new law creates a fiscal conundrum of sorts for the state’s nearly 300,000 medical marijuana users: Should they keep their state-issued cards? The new law, however, requires imposition of a 16 percent excise tax on recreational sales. And assuming a price of $200 an ounce – a figure that could vary widely – that additional fee amounts to $32. So that makes sales to medical marijuana users cheaper. But Hurley said it’s not that simple. Anyone wanting a medical marijuana card first has to get a diagnosis from a doctor that he or she has a condition for which the drug can be recommended. These range from glaucoma and AIDS to

severe and chronic pain. Hurley figures an office visit can set someone back about $150. In either case, customers should come armed with cash. Marijuana remains illegal under federal law. And banks which are subject to federal regulation have been unwilling to accept credit card transactions from dispensaries. Taxes aside, there is one other advantage to keeping a medical marijuana card. It allows individuals to purchase up to 2 1/2 ounces every two weeks, versus being limited to possession of no more than an ounce at any one time. The latest report from the state Department of Health Services has no figures on how much Arizonans spent, as any financial data from the state-regulated dispensaries is confidential. But if an ounce of average weed goes for $200 – and there’s a whole lot of variables – that’s more than $675 mil-

see MARIJUANA page 11

Arizonans getting higher, new pot data suggests

rizonans legally smoked, ate or otherwise consumed nearly 106 tons of marijuana last year. That’s up 27 percent from 2019 and nearly double the amount sold in 2018. And that consumption likely will grow exponentially as Arizona adults could be purchasing legal weed for recreational this week. State health officials began accepting applications last week from some of the more than 120 recreational sites that can sell marijuana to anyone. On paper, the state has up to 60 days to review and approve. But agency spokesman Steve Elliott told Capitol Media Services it’s not going to take anywhere near that long. “Our goal is not to be a barrier,’’ he said. The process should be fairly simple as the initial batch of retail sales licenses will be going to shops already set up to

see WEED page 11

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

MARIJUANA from page 10

get a complaint from code compliance related to smells or odors or something going on.” Hendrix remained unmoved. He was the sole dissenter in the 6-1 vote. “If the goal here is to come up with some way to give people liability for doing something that is legal but we rather that they didn’t do it, I guess we can just say that,” he said. Town Attorney Chris Payne explained Proposition 207 was clear in the areas that municipalities and counties had no authority to regulate and in other areas, it deferred to the local governments such as in this situation. He also reminded the Council it voted in October to ban recreational marijuana use on public property. Councilwoman Aimee Yentes said she sympathized with Hendrix’s concerns with enforceability and property rights but the reality is Proposition 207 “is going to be very bad for the Town of Gilbert and other municipalities” and the town needs to take any available opportunity to regulate it. “Laws on the books and regulations on the books aren’t usually on the books for the good actors,” Yentes said. “They are on there so that you have ways in which to bring bad actors into compliance. And so, I would say as many areas the proposition legally left open to

communities to regulate this activity, I think is something we ought to take full advantage of.” Mayor Brigette Peterson said she agreed with Yentes. “If we do get a call from a neighbor and they have a complaint, then we have something in the town code to fall back on in order to enforce that,” she said. She added that marijuana businesses will be looking at the guidelines set forth in municipalities and that she “would rather be ahead of that game than behind that game.” Councilman Scott Anderson said enforcement for the new codes aren’t any different from other town codes. “The codes are only as good as we can enforce and that certainly isn’t enforced unless there is a complaint of some kind and it would be the same for all of these,” Anderson said. “Virtually all our codes are this way – by complaint for the most part. “I, too, view very strongly about property rights but I view property rights as not only extending to the person’s own personal property but the people that are next to that property also enjoy property rights,” he said. “Granted, there are some that are redundant and we probably don’t need but the codes are intended to protect everybody’s property rights.” ’

lion expended in 2020 on medical marijuana. All that is just the stuff state health officials know about, based on the reports it gets from the more than 100 legal dispensaries around the state. The big unknown is how many medical marijuana patients are getting their drugs from other sources which may be more convenient -- or cheaper. And none of that counts for those who are buying and using the drug illegally. Other findings in the new report also show that on average, more marijuana transactions occur in December than any other month and that male patients outnumber female by 3-to-2. And if you divide up the number of legal medical marijuana patients by the amount of the drug sold in Arizona law

year, the average user consumed close to an ounce a month. Health department figures also show that the vast majority of what was purchased last year was in whole marijuana form, meaning the leaves and flowers that can be smoked or made into tea. Only about 10 percent was in other forms, including edibles like candy bars and drinks, as well as pills and liquids. Sales totaled 87,000 in 2017 and about 58,600 for the year after that. And that was a 52 percent increase over 2015 sales which, in turn, were double the 2014 numbers. The number of patients with medical marijuana cards from the state in each county varies from 196,397 in Maricopa to 275 in LaPaz, according to the Department of Health Services.

WEED

from page 10

NEWS

A-1 Golf Carts SUN LAKES, AZ

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

WE WOULD LIKE TO SAY THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR CUSTOMERS FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT THIS PAST YEAR! WE LOOK FORWARD TO SERVICING ALL YOUR GOLF CART NEEDS IN 2021! STOP IN AND CHECK OUT THE

NEW E-Z-GO’S!

2021 TXT

2021 RXV Lithium

ASK ABOUT THE NEW E-Z-GO ‘LITHIUM’ POWERED CART

6 Passenger RXV

FINANCING AVAILABLE When you purchase a NEW E-Z-GO!*

Finance offers only available at participating E-Z-GO dealers. Approval, rates, applicable fees, and terms provided are based on credit worthiness. Offers only available in 50 U.S. states and District of Columbia. Financing offers void where prohibited. Finance terms are also available for pre-owned E-Z-GO products. Please see your local E-Z-GO Authorized Dealer for details.

25820 S. Arizona Ave. • Sun Lakes, AZ 85248 480.895.2000 • www.A1GolfCarts.com

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Better read this if you are 62 or older and still making mortgage payments. More than 1 million seniors have taken advantage of this “retirement secret.” It’s a well-known fact that for many older Americans, the home is their single biggest asset, often accounting for more than 45% of their total net worth. And with interest rates near all-time lows while home values are still high, this combination creates the perfect dynamic for getting the most out of your builtup equity. But, many aren’t taking advantage of this unprecedented period. According to new statistics from the mortgage industry, senior homeowners in the U.S. are now sitting on more than 7.19 trillion dollars* of unused home equity. Not only are people living longer than ever before, but there is also greater uncertainty in the ecomony. With home prices back up again, ignoring this “hidden wealth” may prove to be short sighted when looking for the best longterm outcome. All things considered, it’s not surprising that more than a million homeowners have already used a government-insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) loan to turn their home equity into extra cash for retirement. It’s a fact: no monthly mortgage payments are required with a government-insured HECM loan; however the borrowers are still responsible for paying for the maintenance of their home, property taxes, homeowner’s insurance and, if required, their HOA fees. Today, HECM loans are simply an effective way for homeowners 62 and older to get the

extra cash they need to enjoy retirement. Although today’s HECM loans have been improved to provide even greater financial protection for homeowners, there are still many misconceptions. For example, a lot of people mistakenly believe the home must be paid off in full in order to qualify for a HECM loan, which is not the case. In fact, one key advantage of a HECM is that the proceeds will first be used to pay

medical bills or helping other family members. Some people simply need the extra cash for everyday expenses while others are now using it as a safety net for financial emergencies. If you’re a homeowner age 62 or older, you owe it to yourself to learn more so that you can make the best decision - for your financial future.

Request a FREE Info Kit & DVD Today! Call 800-840-1837 now. off any existing liens on the property, which frees up cash flow, a huge blessing for seniors living on a fixed income. Unfortunately, many senior homeowners who might be better off with a HECM loan don’t even bother to get more information because of rumors they’ve heard. In fact, a recent survey by American Advisors Group (AAG), the nation’s number one HECM lender, found that over 98% of their clients are satisfied with their loans. While these special loans are not for everyone, they can be a real lifesaver for senior homeowners - especially in times like these. The cash from a HECM loan can be used for almost any purpose. Other common uses include making home improvements, paying off

It’s time to reverse your thinking We’re here and ready to help. Homeowners who are interested in learning more can request a FREE Reverse Mortgage Information Kit and DVD by calling toll-free at

800-840-1837

e Guid Your e t et r to a B ent em Retir verse ing Re rstand Unde ans o L e ag Mortg

FREE A Guide for Children and Caregivers

Your Guide to a Better Retirement

Learn how home equity can helpl oved ones in retirement.

Understanding Reverse Mortgage Loans

Our new Reverse Mortgage information guides & DVD are now available featuring award-winning actor and paid AAG spokesman, Tom Selleck.

U.S.A.’s #1 Reverse Mortgage Company

As Featured on: ABC, CBS, CNN & Fox News

*Source: https://reversemortgagedaily.com/2019/12/17/senior-housing-wealth-reaches-record-high-of-7-19-trillion Reverse mortgage loan terms include occupying the home as your primary residence, maintaining the home, paying property taxes and homeowners insurance. Although these costs may be substantial, AAG does not establish an escrow account for these payments. However, a set-aside account can be set up for taxes and insurance, and in some cases may be required. Not all interest on a reverse mortgage is tax-deductible and to the extent that it is, such deduction is not available until the loan is partially or fully repaid. AAG charges an origination fee, mortgage insurance premium (where required by HUD), closing costs and servicing fees, rolled into the balance of the loan. AAG charges interest on the balance, which grows over time. When the last borrower or eligible non-borrowing spouse dies, sells the home, permanently moves out, or fails to comply with the loan terms, the loan becomes due and payable (and the property may become subject to foreclosure). When this happens, some or all of the equity in the property no longer belongs to the borrowers, who may need to sell the home or otherwise repay the loan balance. V2020.10.07 NMLS# 9392 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). American Advisors Group (AAG) is headquartered at 18200 Von Karman Ave, Suite 300, Irvine CA 92612. Licensed in 49 states. Please go to www.aag.com/legal-information for full state license information. These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency.

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

NEWS

Islands residents concerned about hodrodders BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

ay Janus and others living in Gilbert’s Islands community said they’re fed up with drivers speeding through their neighborhoods unabated. South Island Drive south of Warner Road is a favorite spot for motorists to push the pedal to the metal, they say. The roadway is a 3.73-mile loop that runs through the community of lakefront homes. The community has three manmade lakes totaling 80 acres. “I’ve had a few close calls,” said Janus. “I used to ride my bike in the mornings and

the cars would push me off Island Drive.” Janus said the road is public so the HOA can’t do anything about the problem. He said some homeowners “have reported cars driving through the walls of their homes and some cars have ended up in the lakes.” Janus said he has stood on his front porch with a radar gun that he uses for sail boat races at Lake Pleasant and clocked speeds on the east side of the roadway at 50 to 60 mph. The speed limit ranges from 30 and 35 mph on the loop, according to Janus. He blamed the speeding on drivers when nearby Mesquite High School let out for the day and on hotrodders at

night who “who love the loop.” “I think some of the afternoon traffic from the high school has been tapering off,” he said. “It’s been lighter as schools are virtual. However, we still have these hotrodders. There’re probably more in number now that the roads are simple.” Gilbert Police reported four citations for speeding/reckless driving on Islands Drive so far this fiscal year, which began July 1. For fiscal years 2019 and 2020, officers issued eight citations in each year. Janus, who manages an unofficial The Islands Facebook page, has reached out to residents for their feedback on the issue. A woman who lives in the Windhaven

neighborhood of the development with 2,600 residences called the speeding “a big problem.” “The street I live on is at big curve and we have to be extra careful pulling out onto West S. Island Drive because of speeders coming around the curve in both directions,” she wrote. “I’ve lived here for 33 years and it’s getting worse each year. It’s time we come together and solve this problem.” Another woman who lives in the Harbor Cove neighborhood agreed it’s a problem. “I frequently see people hauling down

to be spent somehow.’’ “The state is going to utilize them as part of the budget, if not for tax reform, they would go toward other initiatives,’’ Scarpinato continued. “The governor believes that people deserve to keep their money.’’ Senate Minority Leader Rebecca Rios, D-Phoenix, suggested there was some fiscal sleight of hand going on. “It appears as though the governor is repurposing federal funds so he can have money to fund his proposed tax cuts,’’ she said, dollars from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act. That includes nearly $400 million in CARES cash the governor gave to state agencies this fiscal year out of the $1.9 billion he had in discretionary funding, with those agencies then depositing about $300 million back into the general fund. That will create a positive ending balance on June 30 when the current fiscal year ends. And some of the funds the governor is touting that he is giving out next year are also coming from new CARES allocations. “Those dollars should be reinvested into helping people right now, as opposed to looking at a tax cut,’’ Rios said. “We did not see a lot of talk about immediate relief for those that are struggling

the most.’’ State schools chief Kathy Hoffman also chided Ducey for relying on one-time federal dollars for K-12 education fixes. “What our public schools are lacking is sustained investment from our state,’’ she said. “With a projected $2 billion surplus in addition to the nearly $1 billion in a rainy-day fund, the governor’s budget should provide stability for schools by committing to increased, sustainable investments in Arizona’s public education system,’’ Hoffman said. That includes funding both full-day kindergarten, something the state abandoned during the last recession, and pre-K programs. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego ripped Ducey’s plan, saying it “does tremendous damage” to Phoenix, where 37 percent of its budget is funded by state money. “The brutal $600 million yearly tax cut he is talking about translates to a potential $25 million cut to the city of Phoenix,” she said. “That kind of reduction will be felt first and most profoundly by our police and fire departments. “I firmly believe we must build up our first responders and provide the resources they need, not recklessly slash

see SPEED page 16

Tax reductions, school choice high on Ducey budget BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

ov. Doug Ducey wants to reduce taxes by $200 million this coming budget year – and another $200 million a year in each of the following two years – but isn’t ready to say who he wants to get that relief. Daniel Scarpinato, Ducey’s chief of staff, said the cuts, the largest since Ducey took office in 2015, are justified because the state’s revenues are healthy. And he rejected suggestions that the cash should go to what might be considered unmet needs, including concerns by Democrats and others about adequate funding of school construction and repairs. Scarpinato cited new and expanded programs being funded in the governor’s $12.6 billion spending plan. But he said Ducey maintains the belief that people are in the best position to decide what to do with their money and not the state, especially given the financial hardships many suffered due to the pandemic. Scarpinato said the governor’s proposed tax cut isn’t designed to be an offset for Arizona’s high-wage earners who will be hit with a 3.5 percent income tax surcharge due to Proposition 208. Instead, he hinted that what Ducey favors

Gov. Doug Ducey is cutting income tax rates at the bottom. That’s based on the fact that Arizona has a staggered tax table. So, for example, everyone pays 2.59 percent on the first $27,272 of income, then 3.34 percent on the next $27,272, 4.17 percent on the next $109,800 and 4.5 percent on everything over $163,632. The dollar figures are double for married couples filing jointly. Scarpinato said the state has record revenues and that “the dollars are going

see DUCEY page 15

NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

Pandemic forces homeless street count suspension BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

unicipalities in Maricopa County, including Gilbert, are canceling this year’s annual headcount of people living on the streets due to COVID-19 concerns. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development requires that the Point-in-Time Count of individuals sleeping on the streets and in shelters take place for one day in late January for jurisdictions that receive federal funding for homeless housing and services. The shelter count, however, will still take place. HUD has approved the request to opt out of the 2021 Point-in-Time Count “due to the health and safety concerns of those experiencing homelessness, as well as, all the staff and volunteers that it takes to conduct a count,” said Sarah Kent, human services planner for the Maricopa Regional Continuum of Care. Kent’s group finds regional solutions

to end homelessness. Maricopa Association of Governments is the lead agency for the program and oversees the regional count. Kent said HUD has assured each Continuum of Care in the country that they will not be penalized for not participating this year. Instead, data from the 2020 headcount will be used, along with in-house supplemental data from 2021, Kent said. “We will only need to send supplemental data to HUD if they feel that they need more information,” Kent said. “They have said that the Point-in-Time shelter data and the Housing Inventory Chart will be enough. We are always willing to send more data to HUD if need be. “Our Homeless Management Information System will pull shelter data numbers for the night of Jan. 27.” HUD’s last allocation to the Maricopa Regional Continuum of Care was $28.4 million, according to Kent. The funding went to agencies and pro-

grams such as A New Leaf’s transitional housing and rapid rehousing program, which got $383,450, and $922,160 went to Camelback Pointe, homeless units in Phoenix, according to a federal award report. In Gilbert, volunteers counted nine homeless individuals last year, up from the two found in 2019. Overall, the county has been seeing a steady increase in homelessness from 2015 to 2020. For the 2020 count, the county reported 7,417 homeless individuals – 3,652 in shelters and 3,767 on the streets. It was a 12 percent uptick from the 2019 count. The unsheltered count for the county also has been going up each year and at a higher rate than the sheltered count. While HUD uses the information to allocate and prioritize funding for homeless programs, regionally the data is analyzed to better understand root causes of homelessness. That includes looking at what leads to

chronic homelessness as well as firsttime homelessness and causes of homelessness among veterans and families. Kent pointed out that the PIT count is not the sole measurement of homelessness in the county but only a one-night snapshot of the situation. The Continuum of Care has access to weekly shelter reports that includes emergency shelter, transitional housing and safe haven programs, she said. Kent said her group also gets monthly counts report from the Homeless Management Information System that shows the increase and decrease in beds or “housing people due to COVID-19.” “The data that we have in-house is much more comprehensive than the PIT Count data,” Kent said. “Our CoC is always collecting data on homelessness, daily,” she said. “So, we absolutely know how dire homelessness is because we have more comprehensive data in-house that we are collecting daily that show us a more complete picture of homelessness.”

Google’s #1 rated window & door company in Phoenix!

Offers Expire Jan. 31, 2021

Buy 1 Window or Door, Get the 2nd

% OFF

PLUS

YES** 0 INTEREST FOR 12 MONTHS

YES** 0 PAYMENTS FOR 12 MONTHS

3837 E. Wier Ave., Suite 4 Phoenix, AZ 85040 ROC#323748

Installation Required ** OAC minimum purchase required

CALL TODAY AND SAVE 480.382.2025 OR www.SIPHOENIX.com

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

DUCEY

from page 13

their ability to do their jobs and continue the necessary reforms we have already begun.” She predicted the cuts will “also damage the libraries and community centers that serve our families, as well as the programs that make life more livable for vulnerable seniors in Phoenix.” She said she would work with legislators to “disregard this budget to favor of one that appropriately addresses the needs of communities statewide.” Scarpinato said there are new and expanded programs being funded, including cash for summer-school programs to help kids, especially from high-poverty areas, make up what they aren’t learning this academic year and more staff to survey conditions in long-term care facilities. He noted funding was being increased for repairs at state prisons and for universities to increase the number of graduates in high-demand industries like coding, artificial intelligence and what the governor calls “entrepreneurism.’’ More money also has been allotted to

NEWS

prevent and deal with forest fires. But the budget does leave some gaps. One in particular is that the governor last year promised he would hold schools financially harmless due to the effects of the virus as many had to go to virtual learning. Ducey said the state would make up for the fact that the aid formula pays less for online students than those in classrooms to recognize there are additional costs. And the governor said schools would not be penalized when some students disappeared from school entirely and the state would provide them with the same aid as the prior year to cover fixed costs. The state did give out $370 million. But that ran out before all the schools got what they believe they were promised, leaving many districts millions in the hole. Scarpinato said the state is making that up by earmarking $389 million for special summer school programs aimed at helping students make up over the

summer what they likely didn’t learn last year. That includes $298 million to help nearly 600,000 students who come from low-income homes to provide at least 50 hours of instruction. And there’s another $91 million targeted at grades K through 3 and 8th and 11th grades for 80 hours of summer school. “Low-income kids and children of color in particular haven’t had the opportunities that other students have had during this pandemic,’’ said Scarpinato. “So we’ve structured this in a way that does provide those dollars to schools, but that does it in a way that helps the kids that have been impacted through this pandemic.’’ But that doesn’t make the schools whole and make up for the cash Ducey promised last year but didn’t deliver. The funds will be needed to pay the staffers teaching those summer school programs. Gretchen Conger, one of the governor’s advisors, said Ducey believes the

schools still come out ahead because of an infusion of federal dollars. The spending plan also does not include the $44 million that Ducey had proposed – but did not get – a year ago to expand “Project Rocket’’ grants of $150 per student to districts with low-performing schools and a high percentage of students who live in poverty to help reduce the achievement gap. “Things have changed,’’ said Scarpinato. But he said the governor is willing to work with Rep. Michelle Udall, R-Mesa, who already has introduced legislation this session to fully fund the plan. The budget also includes $6.9 million in early literacy, including sending literacy coaches to the lowest performing K-3 schools and requiring additional evaluation and training of new teachers to ensure they know how to teach reading. And there is another $9.5 million in what the governor calls his “Driving Equity’’ initiative to promote school choice. That is based on the idea that parents

see DUCEY page 16

Gilbert mayoral candidates file final spending report GSN NEWS STAFF

rigette Peterson was outspent by 2-1 in the election she won, according to final campaign reports filed for the Nov. 3 election. With name recognition and town experience on her side, Peterson beat back Matt Nielsen’s challenge with 70,426 votes to his 53,121 in the runoff. Peterson’s latest spending included $9,530 to Camelback Strategies for consulting and social media; $3,000 to Hans & Co. for social media services and $9,000 to Shipley Strategies for social media advertising, according to her finance report. Her expenses included repaying $10,000 of the $15,000 she loaned her campaign. Among her supporters were land-use attorneys W. Ralph Pew, who gave $250; Brennan Ray, $250; Sean Lake, $250; Adam Baugh, $300; Michael Withey, $250; Jason Morris, $250 and Reese Anderson, $250.

Cutlined. (Credit)

Matt Nielsen

Brigette Peterson

Peterson also received donations from former Gilbert Planning Commission member Phil Alibrandi, $175 and current commission member Brian Andersen,

$2,000. Peterson served on the Planning Commission for 14 years before serving on the Council. Contributors during her campaign also

included Councilwoman Yung Koprowski, $1,000;Councilman Scott September, $300; and Gilbert Public Schools Governing Board members Jill Humpherys, $60, and Reed Carr, $100. Peterson also received nearly $15,000 from political action committees – $6,500 from Realtors of AZ; $4,500 from Gilbert Firefighters; $2,000 from Phoenix Fire Fighters Local 493; $900 from Salt River Project; $500 from Southwest Gas and $500 from Cox AZ. For his first-ever try for local office, Nielsen raised $117,536 and spent $120,974 – compared to Peterson’s total $59,834 in contributions and $62,773 expenditures, according to finance reports filed earlier this month. Nielsen loaned his campaign a total $31,040. The bulk of his Nielsen’s spending heading into the General Election was $95,000 to The Resolute Group for consulting services, according to his last report.

NEWS

SPEED from page 13

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

S. Islands Drive,” she posted. “When I take Islands Drive to get home via Cooper from Highland, I get tailgated all the time because I’m driving 33mph. As soon as I turn, they go flying past me.” She added after moving to the community from Washington, she was shocked at how little traffic laws are enforced down here.” The residents offered up solutions that included speed bumps and traffic enforcement.

Janus said Gilbert Police use to set up speed traps in the community about a decade ago but have done nothing recently. “I’ve contacted the town of Gilbert engineering but I never got a hold of anybody directly,” he said. Gilbert does offer a process for residents who have concerns with speeding, parking or other traffic safety issues in their neighborhoods. If residents can get the signatures

from 10 households, they can request the town do a traffic study. If speed humps or other traffic calming measures are considered a viable solution, the residents would be responsible for the cost, which includes permitting, planning, installing and marking the traffic devices. Janus said he doesn’t see happening. “There are other solutions,” he said. “For the short run it’ll be good to have a few police officers set up some speed

traps.” Police spokeswoman Brenda Carrasco said, “If anyone is needing additional police presence for speeding, the best option is for them to submit a 311 request and it will go out to our patrol teams,” The Gilbert 311 app allows residents to report problems such as potholes and graffiti to the town. Any in-progress issues should go to the Gilbert Police non-emergency line at 480-503-6500, Carrasco added.

want to choose schools based on things like class sizes, programs available and learning styles but often cannot because they do not live near the schools they desire and may not have a way of driving their students there daily. This would be available to schools, both traditional public and charter, to come up with “transportation innovations’’ to get those kids the rides they need. And Ducey wants another $500,000 to publicize school choice options. Also in the program is $2 million available to high school juniors and seniors

in $1,000 scholarships who do community service. Ducey also intends to put $120 million of tax dollars this calendar into keeping the state’s unemployment trust fund solvent. At the beginning of last year, there was $1.1 billion in the fund, financed by employers who pay a tax on the first $7,000 of each worker’s salary. The increased number of people who were let go or fired due to the virus has the fund on target to reach zero in February. Under normal circumstances, when

the fund runs out of money it is made up by the federal government in the form of a loan. But that has to be paid back by Arizona employers in the form of a surcharge on their normal unemployment taxes that they pay. Instead, Ducey wants to use general fund dollars to avoid that surcharge. At the same time, however, Ducey has shown no interest in raising the maximum benefit available to workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. Arizona’s cap of $240 a week, not raised since 2004, is the second lowest in the nation.

There also are no new state dollars for programs for the homeless, an issue that has become increasingly critical given job losses during the pandemic and the expiration of no-eviction orders. Conger, however, said she expects more than $400 million in federal dollars to be available for rental assistance. There are some things the Democrats like, including putting more money into state-subsidized child care for the working poor to help reduce the wait list. Rios also praised additional dollars to fund treatment for opioid treatment and the new body cameras for DPS.

community. The total cost of operating the plant for this fiscal year was $8.76 million, she added. With the expansion, the plant is going

from treating 14 million gallons of liquids and solids per day up to 30 million gallons a day of liquids and 38 million gallons a day of solids on an annual average flow basis. McCarthy Building Companies in a news release said despite challenges with COVID-related restrictions on sup-

pliers and subcontractors, it was able to complete a substantial portion of the plant in August. The expansion started in November 2017 and included site improvements such as control measures for odor, noise and sight and replacement and repair of aging equipment.

DUCEY

from page 15

WATER from page 7

lion, based on the town’s estimated effluent flows. Harrison said the cost is based on actual and projected plant use by each

ANSWERS TO PUZZLE AND SUDOKU on Page 27 The plant expansion more than doubled its capacity to treat solid and liquid waste. (Special to GSN)

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

Milgard® offers beautiful, comfortable, energy Milgard® offers beautiful, comfortable, energy efficient vinyl windows andand doors for your home. efficient vinyl windows doors for your home.

Whether you’re building a new home renovating your existing one, your choices are wide Whether you’re building a newor home or renovating your existing one, your choices areopen wide open when itwhen comes to selecting beautifully designed Milgard windows and patio doors. Strong, beautiful, it comes to selecting beautifully designed Milgard windows and patio doors. Strong, beautiful, long lasting and durable. MilgardMilgard windows and patio designed with stunning architectural long lasting and durable. windows anddoors patioare doors are designed with stunning architectural style and superior performance. Plus, you’ll secure in yourin investment with anwith industry leading,leading, style and superior performance. Plus,feel you’ll feel secure your investment an industry Full Lifetime Warranty that includes parts and labor. Full Lifetime Warranty that includes parts and labor.

Available from Lasting Impressions: 4454.4454. E. Thomas Road,Road, Phoenix, AZ 85018 Available from Lasting Impressions: E. Thomas Phoenix, AZ 85018 Call 602.508.0800 or vist liwindow.com for more information . Call 602.508.0800 or vist liwindow.com for more information.

www.gilbertsunnews.com

18 JANUARY 24, 2021

Garage Door Repair Repairs or New Doors • Broken Springs Panel Replacement • Remotes or Openers • We Service and Repair All Major Brands

• Night & Weekend Service Available Get the Owned & Operated • Insured Royal Treatment •• Family Discounts: Military, AARP, AAA with Spring King Spring King

Small Business, Huge Savings!

“VOTED” BEST OF CHINESE!

602.391.0978 www.springkingaz.com

Chamberlain Door Opener

265

INSTALLED

1/2 hp Chain Drive with 2 remotes 3 YEAR PARTS & LABOR WARRANTY

Broken Spring?

150

INSTALLED

2 Standard Cycle Oil Tempered Torsion Springs 3 YEAR PARTS & LABOR WARRANTY

Noisy Door? Tune

up with Roller Replacement

Includes: Lubrication, Set of 13 Ball Nylon Precision Bearing Rolers • Minor adjustments to Door & Opener Offers Expire 2-28-21

10% OFF Lunch

One coupon per table, per visit. Not valid with any other offer, expires 2/20/21

727 W Ray Rd # B1, Gilbert, AZ 85233 (SE Corner of Ray & Cooper) www.dragonwok.biz

15% off Dinner

One coupon per table, per visit. Not valid with any other offer, expires 2/20/21

DINE IN • CARRY OUT • DELIVERY

480-782-6889

Community

COMMUNITY

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

GilbertSunNews.com

@Gilber tSunNews

For more community news visit gilbertsunnews.com

/Gilber tSunNews

Author went from teaching kids to writing for them BY CASEY FLANAGAN GSN Staff Writer

athie McMahon’s journey to becoming an award-winning Gilbert author came after years of music and elementary education. The Gilbert woman has authored a series of chapter books under the umbrella title “Mortimer and Me,” for kids aged 6 to 9. The series follows an 8-year-old boy as he navigates a new town alongside a new friend: a clumsy moose named Mortimer. The first book, which carries the title of the series, won the 2020 Royal Dragonfly award for chapter books. The annual award honors 71 different categories of literature around the world. McMahon said she never expected to win when she entered the contest, but she’s excited for the fame. “So now I can put a sticker that says ‘Royal Dragonfly, first place’ on the books,” McMahon said. “For me, it validated me as an author, so that was excit-

Kathie McMahon of Gilbert’s “Mortimer and Me” series was partly inspired by her long career teaching young kids. (Courtesy of Kathie McMahon) ing to do that.” McMahon said she followed a host of close relatives with her career in education: her grandmother was a musician

and educator and one of her first inspirations for writing.

see MOOSE page 30

“Mortimer and Me” follows the adventures of an 8-year-old boy and his clumsy friend, a moose named Mortimer. (Special to GSN)

Val Vista Lakes HOA board unveils new playground GSN NEWS STAFF

fter a somewhat rocky 2020, the Val Vista HOA board is pulling the community together. And none of the ways it’s doing that is by replacing 19-year-old playground equipment. Mayor Brigette Peterson and Councilwoman Kathy Tilque attended a ribbon cutting for the new equipment The equipment was in bad need of replacement, said Molly Malone, a member of the HOA Playground Equipment Advisory Committee. “Much of the structure was broken,” she said. “Broken parts were being removed instead of replaced for the last

Celebrating a ribbon cutting for the new playground equipment in Val Vista Lakes HOA are, from left, Molly Malone, Playground Equipment Advisory Committee member; HOA President Bill Suttel, Councilwoman Kathy Tilque, Mayor Brigette Peterson, playground committee members Paul Ross and Galina Vereshchagina. (Courtesy of Molly Malone)

few years, which caused parents in the community concern.” Val Vista Lakes is a multigenerational community with about 2,222 households. So with little kids eager to use the equipment, HOA board President Bill Suttell knew something had to be done and first raised the issue in June. Even before that, homeowners came together in March to join a committee formed by the board, donating hundreds of hours to complete research, perform community surveys and draft various designs. When Suttell was re-elected in November, he immediately put the committee’s

see PLAYGROUND page 30

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021 PAID ADVERTISEMENT

SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Last State Restricted Morgan Silver Dollar Bank Rolls go to AZ residents Arizona residents get first dibs on last remaining Bank Rolls loaded with U.S. Gov’t issued Morgan Silver Dollars dating back to the 1800’s some worth up to 100 times their face value for just the $59 minimum set for state residents - non state residents must pay $136 per coin if any remain after 2-day deadline STATE DISTRIBUTION: A strict limit of 4 State Restricted Bank Rolls per AZ resident has been imposed

ARIZONA - “It’s a miracle these State Restricted Bank Rolls even exist. That’s why Hotline Operators are bracing for the flood of calls,” said Laura Lynne, U.S. Coin and Currency Treasurer for the National Mint and Treasury. For the next 2 days the last remaining State of Arizona Restricted Bank Rolls loaded with rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued Morgan Silver Dollars are actually being handed over to Arizona residents who call the National Toll-Free Hotlines listed in today’s newspaper publication. “I recently spoke with the retired Treasurer of the United States of America who said 'In all my years as Treasurer I’ve only ever seen a handful of these rare Morgan Silver Dollars issued by the U. S. Gov’t back in the 1800’s. But to actually find them sealed away in State Restricted Bank Rolls still in pristine condition is like finding buried treasure. So anyone lucky enough to get their hands on these Bank Rolls had better hold on to them,'” Lynne said. “Now that the State of Arizona Restricted Bank Rolls are being offered up we won’t be surprised if thousands of Arizona residents claim the maximum limit allowed of 4 Bank Rolls per resident before they’re all gone,” Lynne said. “That’s because the dates and mint marks of the U.S. Gov’t issued Morgan Silver Dollars sealed away inside the State of Arizona Restricted Bank Rolls have never been searched. But, we do know that all the coins date clear back to the 1800’s and are worth up to

JACKPOT: Imagine finding the 1892S Morgan Silver Dollar shown above worth thousands of dollars in collector value in one of these unsearched Bank Rolls. There are never any guarantees, but Arizona residents who get their hands on these State Restricted Bank Rolls will be the really lucky ones because even more common coins are still worth up to $125 - $1,000 in collector value.

100 times their face value, so there is no telling what Arizona residents will find until they sort through all the coins,” Lynne said. And here’s the best part. If you are a resident of the state of Arizona you cover only the $59 per coin state minimum set by the National Mint and Treasury, that’s ten rarely seen U. S. Gov’t issued Morgan Silver Dollars’ worth up to 100 times

VALUABLE: It’s like a treasure hunt - there’s no telling what you’ll find. That’s because the dates and mint marks of the ten U.S. Gov’t issued coins sealed away inside these State of Arizona Restricted Bank Rolls have never been searched. All we know is some of the coins are worth up to 100 times their face value.

their face value for just $590 which is a real steal because non state residents must pay $136 per coin which totals $1,360 if any coins remain after the 2-day deadline. The only thing Arizona residents need to do is call the National TollFree Hotlines printed in today’s newspaper publication before the 2-day order deadline ends. “Rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued

coins like these are highly sought after, but we’ve never seen anything like this before. According to The Official Red Book, a Guide Book of United States Coins many Morgan Silver Dollars minted in the 1800’s are now worth $125 - $1,000 each in collector value,” Lynne said. “So just imagine how much these R1015

(Continued on next page)

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021 PAID ADVERTISEMENT

(Continued from previous page)

last remaining, unsearched State of Arizona Restricted Bank Rolls could be worth someday. Remember, these are not ordinary coins – these rarely seen coins are over 100 years old. In fact, these coins have been forever retired by the U.S. Gov’t, and you can’t get them rolled this way anywhere because these are the only State Restricted Bank Rolls known to exist,” Lynne said. “We’re guessing thousands of Arizona residents will be taking the maximum limit of 4 Bank Rolls because they make such amazing gifts for any occasion for children, parents, grandparents, friends and loved ones,” Lynne said. “We know the phones will be ringing off the hook. That’s why hundreds of Hotline Operators are standing by to answer the phones beginning at 8:30am this morning. We’re going to do our best, but with just 2 days to answer all the calls it won’t be easy. So make sure to tell everyone to keep calling if all lines are busy. We’ll do our best

to answer them all,” Lynne said. “That’s why the National Mint and Treasury set up the National Toll-Free Hotlines in order to make sure Arizona residents get

SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

the State Restricted Bank Rolls before they’re all gone,” Lynne said. The only thing readers of today’s newspaper publication need to do

is make sure they are a resident of the state of Arizona and call the National Toll-Free Hotlines before the 2-day deadline ends midnight tomorrow. ■

IMPORTANT: The dates and mint marks of the U.S. Gov’t issued Morgan Silver Dollars sealed away inside the State of Arizona Restricted Bank Rolls have never been searched. Coin values always fluctuate and they are never any guarantees, but any of the scarce coins shown below, regardless of their value that residents may find inside the sealed Bank Rolls are theirs to keep.

1886-S Mint: San Francisco Mintage: 750,000 Collector Value: $78 $350

1888-S Mint: San Francisco Mintage: 657,000 Collector Value: $125 $315

1896-S Mint: San Francisco Mintage: 5,000,000 Collector Value: $70 $850

1899-P Mint: Philadelphia Mintage: 330,000 Collector Value: $175 $260

ARIZONA RESIDENTS: COVER JUST $59 MINIMUM PER COIN BEGIN CALLING AT 8:30 AM: 1-800-868-0189 EXT. RMR205 if you are a resident of the state of Arizona call now to claim the state limit of 4 state of Arizona restricted bank rolls. all Arizona residents who beat the 2-day deadline are getting the only full ten coin bank rolls loaded with rarely seen u.s. gov’t issued morgan silver dollars dating back to the 1800’s worth up to 100 times their face value known to exist. The only thing Arizona residents cover is just the $59 per coin state minimum set by the National Mint and Treasury, that’s ten rarely seen u.s. gov’t issued morgan silver dollars worth up to 100 times their face value for just $590 and that’s a real steal because non-Arizona residents must pay $1,360 for each state of Arizona restricted bank roll. just be sure to call the national toll free hotlines before the deadline ends two days from today’s publication date.

NON STATE RESIDENTS: MUST PAY $136 PER COIN - IF ANY REMAIN DO NOT CALL BEFORE 5:00 PM TOMORROW: 1-800-868-0573 RMR205 if you are a resident living outside of the state of Arizona you are required to pay $136 for each morgan silver dollar for a total of $1,360 plus shipping and handling for each state of Arizona restricted bank roll loaded with ten u.s. gov’t issued morgan silver dollars. NATIONAL MINT AND TREASURY, LLC IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. MINT, THE U.S. GOVERNMENT, A BANK OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. IF FOR ANY REASON WITHIN 30 DAYS FROM SHIPMENT YOU ARE DISSATISFIED, RETURN THE PRODUCT FOR A REFUND LESS SHIPPING AND RETURN POSTAGE. THIS SAME OFFER MAY BE MADE AVAILABLE AT A LATER DATE OR IN A DIFFERENT GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. OH RESIDENTS ADD 6.5% SALES TAX. NATIONAL MINT AND TREASURY, PO BOX 35609, CANTON, OH 44735 ©2020 NATIONAL MINT AND TREASURY. R1015

COMMUNITY

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

Women’s Partnership helps EV charities

but spend on kids directly,” Crews said. The organization uses esa-based nonprofit Desert the help of eight people, Sounds helps connect at risk some volunteers and others kids to the community by propart-timers, whose help and viding access to musical instruments. expertise are needed, she Next year, as in the previous 11 years, added. it anticipates a $2,000 grant from the Crews “doesn’t count philanthropic outfit, The Arizona Womchickens before they’re en’s Partnership. hatched,” but with this The grant is modest, but it goes a long grant, “I’m counting that as way in the organization that is casha chicken that I dearly need; strapped even without a pandemic. it makes a huge difference “It doesn’t matter if we have one child in our bottom line,” she said. here or 3,000 children, we still have to “Even $100 is a lot of money pay rent and utility bills, so it’s made it if you use it wisely.” difficult,” said Jennifer Crews, referring Pan de Vida Foundation to the pandemic. “We have to cut back on has been receiving a grant what we offer because we can’t afford it.” of $2,000 for two years and The story is similar at the all-volunteer used it to create a garden for run Pan de Vida Foundation of Queen children and senior citizens. Creek, which started in 2003 to assist Pan dde Vida Foundation, above, helps people in need while About Care volunteers, below, help home“We had been struggling needy children, seniors and families, and bound seniors and others in various ways, including computer training. (Special to GSN) to get the garden going, due About Care, a nonprofit that provides to the lack of money,” foundfree support services for the elderly and er Mary Gloria said. She had disabled homebound residents of Chantrouble with the paperwork because dler, Gilbert and Queen Creek. grants require a lot of it. Organizations such as these are grate“I know that there is a reason for the ful to The Arizona Women’s Partnership, grants to require so much paperwork, which has raised $30,000 to award in but most of the non-profits that I know the next grant cycle. were started by people with the desire Founded by Paula Cullison of Phoenix of assisting children, senior citizens, in 2002, the all-volunteer helps grassadults or families,” she said. roots charities that assist under-served “When I got the grant, I was so happy, women and children at-risk in Arizothat I cried. Since then, we have gotten a na. To date, it has awarded more than second grant, and at this time, I am pre$500,000 in grants. base increased to include the Violet M. non-profit, we rely on the kindness and paring to ask for a third time,” she added. The recipients, in turn, assist more Johnson Family Foundation of Scotts- generosity of many.” The charity was started in 2003 and than 130,000 people annually, drawing dale, now a major donor. At Desert Sounds, needy kids are given is manned by volunteers. “Therefore, from Hispanic, Black, Native Ameri“We gratefully acknowledge the very access to musical instruments so they when we find a non-profit that helps ascan, Asian and refugee populations. generous donations given in honor of can participate in a school band or or- sist our non-profit grow, we rejoice, and They address critical issues such as their late maternal grandmother; this chestra and also provided with music praise God,” she said. domestic violence, child abuse, adult lit- philanthropy continues to help tens of lessons and opportunities to perform in About Care’s goal is to allow the eldereracy, youth at risk, English as a Second thousands of women and children in the community. ly and disabled homebound individuals Language training, foster children, refu- need,” Cullison said. It also runs a Mariachi program to to meet their basic needs, reduce isolagees, homelessness, health and hunger. Asked why this work is important to share the Hispanic culture and an election and remain independent in their Cullison created two fundraisers to the management executive, avid traveler tronic orchestra program to play differ- homes. showcase women in the culinary field: and arts advocate, Cullison said: Its services include wellness checks, ent types of music on electric instruGetting Our Just Desserts and Wine, “I am inspired by the generosity of ments in the public. friendly calls, friendly visits, respite for Women & Jazz, which were the main our many donors and by the incredible The organization uses the grant funds caregivers, shopping and errands, minor source of donations for the first 13 years. results of our grant recipients who do to repair the instruments after use, and home repairs, transportation and inforAs the charity gained recognition for phenomenal work on a shoestring bud- to replace used cases. its philanthropic efforts, the founder gets. As an all-volunteer philanthropic “We don’t spend on rent or insurance, see GRANT page 30 BY SRIANTHI PERERA GSN Contributor

Special Supplement to Gilbert Sun News

HEALTH Winter 2021

WELLNESS Your Local Guide to Better Living

Taking small steps for lifelong rewards BY MELISSA ELLIOTT, MSW GSN Guest Writer

taying engaged, socially connected and finding meaningful programs to participate in over the last year has been challenging for everyone—but especially for seniors who can be vulnerable and isolated. The Area Agency on Aging has adapted to offer virtual versions of its Health Living classes, including Geri-Fit exercise classes and other

behavior change courses like chronic disease self-management, living life with chronic pain and diabetes self-management. This February and March, the agency will virtually offer the Aging Mastery Program. Developed by the National Council on Aging, The Aging Mastery Program is a 10-week course that explores topics like fall prevention, nutrition, exercise, medication management, financial management, emotional health and life

care planning. The class is taught by subject-matter experts. Participants receive a workbook and other supplemental materials. “The Aging Mastery Program is great because it is so comprehensive,” said Rose Leyba, the agency’s health promotion coordinator. “It doesn’t just focus on one area like physical health or fall prevention but covers a variety of topics that are important to older adults as they

plan for the future.” If you are interested in participating in the Aging Mastery Program, call 602-241-5562 for information and to register. For information on all the classes the Area Agency is offering, call the 24-hour senior help line at 602-264-4357 or visit the website at aaaphx.org. Melissa Elliott, MSW is vice president of programs & services for the Area Agency on Aging, Region One.

center, movement studio, pool and other services. The community offers two dining venues, 1891 Fine Dining and Graze Café Club, that it says “provide residents with delicious and healthy culinary choices to match their wants and needs.” Local owners-operators Ben Searle and Casey Balmforth began the project in 2016 after launching American Orchards Senior Living.

“The goal for American Groves is to create Gilbert’s premier senior living option for individuals and couples looking for an elevated and inspired lifestyle,” they said in a release. American Groves’ state-of-the-art residences have full kitchens and come in one- and two-bedroom floor plans. Its modern-farm architecture is a nod to Gilbert’s history and this theme is present throughout the exterior and interior design of the

community. American Groves Independent Living “is an ideal option for many seniors as it promotes a healthy-living lifestyle that allows residents to truly achieve a better overall state of being,” the owners said, because it provides socialization, peace of mind, security, maintenance-free care, activities and transportation. Information: americangroves.com.

shoes and those required by the sport they play. Cleats generally don’t offer good support and a supportive shoe insole should be considered. “Stretch before and after sports practices,” it advises. “Ensure your child is performing warm-up and cool-down exercises when playing sports.” Pediatric Foot & Ankle says 90 percent of the children its professionals

see for heel pain caused by Sever’s Disease. “The most common misdiagnosis for children’s heel pain is plantar fasciitis,” it says. “Most of all of these cases prove to be Severs. Kids and adult heel pain are different and should be treated differently.” The second most common cause of heel pain in children is Achilles Ten-

donitis and a less common but not unheard-of cause of children’s heel pain is juvenile idiopathic arthritis, formerly known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. “A pediatric podiatrist is the most qualified professional to diagnose and treat children’s heel pain,” it adds. Information: pediatricfootankle.com

American Groves is Gilbert’s latest senior living facility GSN NEWS STAFF

merican Groves Independent and Assisted Living Community opened this month next to Gilbert High School. The community, at 941 E. Elliot Road, boasts of “a variety of purposeful amenities which are centered around the health and wellness of residents,” including The Reserve a wellness spa with a salon, fitness

Common causes of child foot pain can be addressed GSN NEWS STAFF

here are several best ways to prevent pediatric heel pain, according to Pediatric Foot and Ankle. Located at 633 E. Ray Road, Gilbert, the practice advises parents to ensure their child wears high-quality shoes that offer ample support. This is true for both “everyday”

Health & Wellness

Winter 2021

Now Open! Call now, space is limited.

480.977.2937

Take a Tour 1. Open smart camer phone camera. oint camera 2. Point at this box. 3. Click link that pops up.

Winter 2021

Health & Wellness

Kelly Jorn Cookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dentistry has 3 decades of service GSN NEWS STAFF

r. Kelly Jorn Cook, D.D.S., offers a wide range of dentistry services to suit almost any dental

need. Located at 3800 W. Ray Road, Chandler, his practice includes the most recent dental technologies to make a patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visit safe, convenient, painless and positive. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We offer full-service dentistry, including dental implants, Invisalign, and cosmetic restorations,â&#x20AC;? Cook said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The entire team strives to provide the highest quality personalized dental care for patients of all ages in a stress-free, fun environment. Dr. Cookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique approach to dentistry is in the office atmosphere.â&#x20AC;? While providing â&#x20AC;&#x153;the highest quality of dentistry,â&#x20AC;? he said he creates an environment of more fun and less fear. Cook balances â&#x20AC;&#x153;being the doc that rocks and with keeping it simpleâ&#x20AC;? and is continually upgrading his ability and knowledge through continuing dental education and encourages and supports his staff to do the same. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What you see with the doc is what you get: great dentistry and a really good time,â&#x20AC;? he said. When not practicing dentistry, he is golfing with his wife or hanging out with their 12 dogs.

tune up your smile with the doc that rocks! VOTED BEST DENTIST IN CHANDLER AND BEST OF THE BEST! 2020

Dr. Kelly Jorn Cook, D.D.S. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The health and well-being of our patients and team members continues to be our top priority,â&#x20AC;? Cook added. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We practice all COVID-19 safety protocols and are seeing patients by appointment only. Many of these safeguards have always been a part of our practice, but we have taken additional precautions to ensure your protection for your appointment.â&#x20AC;? Information: kellyjorncook.com

To find out about advertising opportunities in the spring Health and Wellness edition, email jane@timespublications.com

Chandler â&#x20AC;˘ Gilbert â&#x20AC;˘ Mesa

, great DENTISTry. that s how we roll. 480.899.4477 chandler, az

Health & Wellness

Winter 2021

Southwest Cardiovascular boasts added benefits

GSN NEWS STAFF

outhwest CardioVascular Interventional Center boasts added benefits to its partners in the local healthcare community. “These include more interpersonal and compassionate patient centered experiences, rapid response referral services, extended hours decreasing readmissions, and significantly affordable procedural treatments, increasing patient satisfaction, proven outcomes and overall our patients peace of mind in uncertain times as we face today,” a company release said. Noting that “as a company, we must not only grow

with the consciousness of our responsibilities to our patients and each other,” it said “an understanding that future growth comes with added responsibilities of continual knowledge regarding safety and compliance. “Our practice offers precision and awareness to support this new paradigm in high quality, affordable, outpatient medical procedural services for our patients. This vision has led us to the opening of our newly built Cardiovascular Surgical Center which provides significant benefits to the overall medical community most especially in this new world of COVID-19.” Information: https:// swcva.com/

Charles M.T. Jost, MD.

Interventional Cardiologist, Principal

Michael D. Barry, DO.

THE PEDAL LOOP SPECIALISTS

Interventional Cardiologist

Michelle Gentsch, ACNP Kelli DuCray, ACNP Angie Aguilar

Strategic Marketing/ Business Development Cell 480-636-6259 aaguilar@swcva.com _____________ 7529 E. Broadway Rd. Mesa, AZ 85208 Rapid Referral Line: 480-945-4343

To Our Beloved Community,

Southwest

CardioVascular Interventional Center

Southwest Cardio EndoVascular Center

We did it! We are very proud to present, to the surrounding community and greater Phoenix area, our new CardioVascular and Interventional Ambulatory Surgery Center, located at: 7529 E. Broadway Road, Mesa, AZ 85208, now open.

Stuart C. Lipskind, MD.

Led by our founder and principal, Dr. Charles Jost, this hybrid facility incorporates our Cardiac Interventional Center and Endovascular Procedural Center. Combining these centers allows us to perform therapeutic cardiac catheterizations, electrophysiology studies, cardiac ablations, arrhythmia recorders, pacemaker and AICD implantations. We will also continue to provide peripheral arterial disease interventions, as well as a myriad of interventional radiology procedures performed by Dr. Minkus. These procedures include paracentesis, thoracentesis, drainage catheter placements such as gastric and G-J feeding tube placements, nephrostomy tube placements/exchanges, kyphoplasty for spine fractures, hemodialysis catheter and fistula treatments for diabetic patients on dialysis, embolizations for uterine fibroids and pelvic congestion syndrome, IVC filter and port placements, and pelvic venous outflow stenting. Nareg Minaskeian, MD.

Our Cardiovascular Center is uniquely designed, not only for offering our patients the convenience of an alternative to surgery performed in a hospital setting but offering the sophistication our facility brings. We are providing the highest level of care in an outpatient surgery setting, geared towards proven quality measures. With over 50 highly trained and experienced physicians, multispecialty-disciplinary allied heroes, our skill-sets and diversity reflect our patient outcomes and overall patient satisfaction. • 2 OR and 1 procedure room • 6 recovery areas • 2 preoperative rooms • Joint Commission Accredited (pending successful accrediation survey) • ASCA Member • Physician peer to peer reviews • Value Based Program (moving the program toward rewarding better value, based on outcomes and innovations, instead of mere volume) Instagram Linkedin Yelp Pinterest Twitter • Quality measures, Lower infection rate, Lower complication rate, Less patients transferred to hospital, Increase patient satisfaction surveys, Increase satisfaction with Facebook surgical experience, Increase satisfactionYouTube with recovery experience, Increase Nurse/patient ratio in recovery area.

Kirk D. Minkus, MD.

Cardiovascular Procedures we perform (CMS recently approved the following reimbursable procedures in an ambulatory surgery center setting): • Heart catheterization for the treatment of single vessel occlusive disease and stenting. • Diagnostic Left and Right heart cath for diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary hypertension and possible occlusive coronary artery disease. We also perform in a safe controlled environment:

• Loop recorder implants and ex-plants • Pacemaker implants and generator changes • ICD implants and generator changes

Michelle Gentsch, ACNP

In this new world of COVID-19, our broad outpatient cardiac, peripheral vascular, and interventional radiology service lines offered, will provide significant benefits to the medical community of skilled nursing and assisted living facility residents, by avoiding re-admissions for these patients to obtain these procedural needs, while offering them much more affordably, with faster scheduling and procedure completion times, greatly increasing patient satisfaction. Our Outpatient Interventional/Surgical Center will allow us to safely address the necessary changes our healthcare industry demands and will enable us to foster a culture of clinical innovation, in a center of EAST MESA excellence uniquely designed to offer all of these more affordable, cost-effective interventional procedures, in one environment. Our state-of-the-art, 13,500 square foot, JACHO accredited, MAIN ST Medicare Certified Interventional OR suites, Vascular lab and supported recovery rooms, will adhere fully to all regulatory mandates and requirements, as an Ambulatory Surgical Center. 202

Members

Charles M.T. Jost, MD.

Charles M.T. Jost, MD. Principal, Interventional Cardiologist

Facebook Facebook

Twitter Twitter

Instagram Instagram

Linkedin Linkedin

YouTube YouTube

YelpYelp

SOUTHERN AVE

Kelli DuCray, ACNP

Angie Aguilar

Pinterest Pinterest

Superstition Fwy

ELSWORTH RD

We are PROUD

7529 E. Broadway Rd. Mesa AZ 85208

SOSSAMAN RD

Respectfully yours,

Rapid Referral email: referrals@swcva.com

BROADWAY RD POWER RD

Please visit our website www.swcva.com and follow us on GOOGLE, FB and TWITTER, for more information, as we continue on this extraordinary journey to what we believe is the future of healthcare today. Call us at 480-945-4343 to arrange a consultation or procedure. We look forward to taking care of your patients!

Rapid Referral eFax: 480-522-3030

_____________

Nachiket Patel, MD.

Connecting the heartbeats of our communities, one footprint at a time. 7529 E. Broadway Rd., Mesa, AZ 85208 is now open.

Stuart C. Lipskind, MD.

Interventional Radiology

Michael D. Barry, DO.

Southwest EndoVascular Center

Interventional Cardiologist

Kirk D. Minkus, MD.

Southwest

Southwest CardioVascular Interventional Center

Nachiket Patel, MD.

Electrophysiologist

(Credit)

C a r d i oVa s c u l a r A s s o c i a t e s

Interventional Cardiologist

Nareg Minaskeian, MD.

Cutline

60 BASELINE RD

60 202

www.swcva.com

Winter 2021

Health & Wellness

Area Agency on Aging

Aging Mastery

Taking small steps for lifelong rewards The Aging Mastery Program (AMP)® is a fun and engaging education and behavioral improvement program for aging well.

aaaphx.org Sessions are one day a week for 10 weeks. Call to Register Now

602-241-5562

Learn from experts about topics including: remaining financially secure, managing health care, increasing social connectedness, developing healthy eating habits, and planning for the future. The Agency is offering two virtual class series of Aging Mastery ® (via ZOOM) Feb 10 – April 14 March 23 – June 1

Health & Wellness

Winter 2021

Lifequest’s integrated care targets individual needs GSN NEWS STAFF

MEDICAL • CHIROPRACTIC • PHYSICAL REHAB • MASSAGE

Providing Intrgrated Healthcare For The Entire Family

$20

NEW PATIENT

+RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY 60-MINUTE MASSAGE

SECOND LOCATION NOW OPEN 4049 E. WILLIAMS FIELD RD. SUITE 101 GILBERT, AZ 85295

480-597-9497

ALSO LOCATED IN CHANDLER - RAY & McQUEEN

www.lifequestarizona.com

Locally Owned & Operated

Hearing Aids Hearing Protection Hearing Testing

Offering foot and ankle care for teens, adolescents and infants

Some conditions treated: • Heel Pain • Fractures • Sprains • Sports Injuries • Ingrown Nails • Warts • Gait Abnormalities • Flat Feet

FREE BLUETOOTH ACCESSORY ($400 Value)

With Purchase of Hearing Aids

Cassandra Fynes Au.D, CCC-A

Roger Knighton M.N.S., CCC-A

ifeQuest Physical Medicine and Rehab at 4049 E. Williams Field Road, Gilbert, offers physical rehabilitation, corrective chiropractic, massage therapy and medical care. Rather than focusing on attempting to treat disease once it occurs, LifeQuest says it “emphasizes the importance of improving your health in an effort to reduce the risk of pain and illness in the first place.” “Given the option, most people would prefer to be healthy and avoid illness if possible, our integrated approach can help those people achieve their health and wellness goals,” it said in a release, adding that patients who are in pain will benefit from integrated care that addresses many types of pain and conditions

involving the back, neck and other parts of the body. Pain relief and pain prevention are two reasons why integrated services have become so popular, it noted. LifeQuest Physical Medicine and Rehab says its integrated approach “can assist patients with the rediscovery of health and wellness that had been previously known but long lost. “For others, the integrated approach may offer a new sense of balance and wellness that one has never before experienced,” it added, stressing its care plans are specifically targeted to each patient’s individual needs “using the least invasive yet highly-effective techniques and services.” Information: lifequestarizona.com 480) 597-9497

2058 S. Dobson Rd., Ste 9 Mesa, Arizona 85202

480-456-0176

fynesaudiology.com

Dr. Mikkel Jarman specializes in Pediatric Podiatry

480-534-7220 • pediatricfootankle.com 633 E. Ray Rd., #128 | Gilbert, AZ 85296

Winter 2021

Glam Wigs aims to help women look their best GSN NEWS STAFF

lam Wigs & Beauty, a full- service wig and beauty supply store in Gilbert, was founded by two women with a passion for the beauty industry. They created the store with one mission: offer women a place where they could “find something to enhance their look and make them feel beautiful.” They described the business as “a place that is judgment free and is guaranteed to be able to meet the needs of every individual customer. “The variety of products that Glam Wigs carries is extensive,” they say. “You will find everything you need to take care of your own biological hair or the products you need for your wigs or hair extensions. They offer can change a client’s look

completely, add some length to their hair, add volume to their lashes, create glamorous nails or even make an elegant ponytail. Glam Wig’s owners have extensive experience and a commitment to go above and beyond to take care of their clients. They are experienced with all forms of hair-loss and can help women of all ages who lose their hair through chemotherapy or even hereditary hair loss. The shop, located at 139 E. Williams Field Road, also offers an extensive array of beauty products. And it boasts low prices for its services and those products. Information and appointments: 480-590-0026 or https://www.facebook.com/GlamwigsAZ.

% 20 OFF any Wig or Topper

* Exclusions Apply

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY AND CHRONIC PAIN WARNING! Our clinic is taking every precaution and we follow strict CDC guidelines to ensure that our patients, clinic and staff are SAFE! Mesa, AZ — The most common method your doctor will recommend to treat your chronic pain and/or neuropathy is with prescription drugs that may temporarily reduce your symptoms. These drugs have names such as Gabapentin, Lyrica, Cymbalta, and Neurontin, and are primarily antidepressant or anti-seizure drugs. These drugs may cause you to feel uncomfortable and have a variety of harmful side effects. Chronic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves often causing weakness, pain, numbness, tingling, and the most debilitating balance problems. This damage is commonly caused by a lack of blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet which causes the nerves to begin to degenerate due to lack of nutrient flow.

NOTE: Once you have sustained 95% nerve loss, there is likely nothing that we can do for you. 3) How much treatment will your condition require?

Aspen Medical will do a chronic pain and neuropathy severity examination to determine the extent of the nerve damage as a public service to you and/or your family and friends. This neuropathy/ pain severity examination will consist of a detailed sensory evaluation, extensive peripheral vascular testing, and a detailed analysis of the findings of your neuropathy.

The treatment that is provided at Aspen Medical has three main goals. 1) Increase blood flow

3) Decrease brain-based pain The treatment to increase blood flow, stimulate small nerve fibers and get you back to health is our new $50,000.00 SANEXAS UNIT! As you can see in Figure 2, as the blood vessels that surround the nerves become diseased they shrivel up which causes the nerves to not get the nutrients to continue to survive. When these nerves begin to “die” they cause you to have balance problems, pain, numbness, tingling, burning, and many additional symptoms.

(See the special neuropathy severity examination at the end of this article) In order to effectively treat your neuropathy three factors must be determined. 1) What is the underlying cause?

Glamwigsaz@gmail.com 480-590-0026 Glamwigsaz.com

determined after a detailed neurological and vascular evaluation. As long as you have not sustained at least 95% nerve damage there is hope!

Fig. 2

2) Stimulate and increase small fiber nerves

The main problem is that your doctor has told you to just live with the problem or try the drugs which you don’t like taking because they make you feel uncomfortable. There is now a facility right here in Mesa that offers you hope without taking those endless drugs with serious side effects.

Free Consultation

Health & Wellness

2) How much nerve damage has been sustained.

In addition, we use a state-of-the-art diagnostics like the TM Flow diagnostic unit to accurately determine the increase in blood flow and a small skin biopsy to accurately determine the increase in small nerve fibers! The Sanexas electric cell signaling system delivers energy to the affected area of your body at varying wavelengths, including both low-frequency and middle-frequency signals. It also uses amplitude modulated (AM) and frequency modulated (FM) signaling. During a treatment session, the Sanexas system automatically changes to simultaneously deliver AM and FM electric cell signal energy. THE GREAT NEWS IS THAT SANEXAS IS COVERED BY MEDICARE AND MOST INSURANCE! Depending on your coverage, your treatment could be little to no cost to you! The amount of treatment needed to allow the nerves to fully recover varies from person to person and can only be

Aspen Medical will be offering this chronic pain and neuropathy severity examination from now until January 31, 2021. Call 480274-3157 to make an appointment to determine if your chronic pain and peripheral neuropathy can be successfully treated. Due to our very busy office schedule, we are limiting this FREE consultation offer to the first 15 callers. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO SUFFER ANOTHER MINUTE, CALL Call 480-274-3157 … NOW! We are extremely busy and if your call goes to our voicemail, please leave a message and we will get back to you asap.

480-274-3157 1425 S. Greenfield Rd., Ste. 101 Mesa, AZ 85206

COMMUNITY

MOOSE from page 19

McMahon earned a degree in music education from Northern Arizona University and a masters in music from Arizona State University. She went on to teach for 32 years – 27 of which were spent in schools around Mesa. McMahon taught music education for 12 years before transitioning to teach fourth, fifth, and sixth grade for the remainder of her career. She said children that age also inspired “Mortimer and Me.” “Having taught for that long with those kinds of kids, I knew the things they liked, the things they laughed at,” McMahon said. After she retired from teaching, McMahon wrote original music for the East Valley Children’s Theatre and found success there too. She won four AriZoni awards, which she said are like Arizona’s version of the Tony Awards, for music

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

composition. McMahon said some themes from the “Mortimer and Me” series come from lessons she learned while teaching children’s theatre. “Kids in general, they come from such diverse backgrounds and so you have to kind of find out what their talents are,” she said, “My books that I wrote, that’s what the general theme in those books is basically. Everybody’s good at something so figure out what that is and do something with it.” Meanwhile, McMahon began writing picture books with accompanying original songs. When she shared a picture book about a moose named Mortimer with a publisher, they said they liked the story but chapter books are more in demand. McMahon took that advice and began

GOT NEWS?

Contact Cecilia Chan at 480-898-5613 or cchan@timespublications.com

writing “Mortimer and Me” as a chapter book in the early part of the last decade. “I really found that because I taught fourth, fifth, and sixth grade – and that’s who I could relate to – I really enjoyed writing a little bit longer of a book than what you’re allowed to with picture books.” McMahon said since she isn’t an illustrator herself, she reached out to Tom Tate, a colleague she met through the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. She said Tate was initially reluctant to illustrate other people’s writing but agreed to help her since he already knew about Mortimer’s character from work they’d done in the past. “She’s very, very efficient when it comes to writing, and handling words and scenes, and plots and characters and

that sort of thing,” Tate said. “So yes, I was happy to do the work for her.” McMahon published the first book in the “Mortimer and Me” series independently in 2019. She named her publishing entity “Pearl White Books” after her grandmother who shared the name. McMahon said she has other projects in the works as well – including a novel for kids in higher elementary grades that follows a 10-year-old boy who goes on a cross-country trip with his eccentric grandma. McMahon has published three “Mortimer and Me” books and plans to write three more – though when people suggest new story ideas she gets tempted to expand the series further. “I guess I’ll just keep writing them until I get tired of the characters,” she said, “but right now it is a lot of fun.”

recommendation up for a vote and the newly elected board members passed the measure. The playground vendor was Jeff Hunter of SunState Recreation. “The playground has helped bring the community together,” said Malone, citing some turmoil within the community that led to the recall of two board members. Peterson in her ribbon-cutting speech said that now more than ever, playground equipment is needed to encour-

age healthy habits in children. Key contributors to making that dream come true included Suttell, board Vice President Sharon Maiden, Secretary Joni Lang, Treasurer Doug Keats and members Dustin Snow, Joan Kampmeyer and Greg Orsini. Besides Malone, the playground committee includes Chairman Paul Ross and members Galina Vereshchagina, Ashley Nardeccia, Cara Wakefield, Lisa Macal and Caitlin Puckett.

mation and referrals. About Care has partnered with The Arizona Women’s Partnership for the past seven years and use the funding primarily for volunteer recruitment, background checks and training. “We feel very blessed to be a partner of The Arizona Women’s Partnership,” said AnnMarie McArthur. “The fact they are donating money to help women, is very satisfying. About 84 percent of About Care’s clients are low-income, elderly women.” With her involvement in the non-profit community, Cullison knew that the smaller charities have the most difficulty in raising needed funds. “They fill many gaps in providing criti-

cal social services,” she said. Information: azwp.org.

PLAYGROUND from page 19

GRANT from page 20

ABOUT THE GRANTS

Grant applicants must be 501 c(3) nonprofits with an operating budget of under $450,000; Arizona-based; in good financial standing; non-sectarian; non-partisan; nonschool affiliated; and reflect its mission. The 2021 grant application must be postmarked by March 31. Grant awards will be distributed mid-year. Watch the Faces of Hope video of photography exhibit on the website featuring the faces of the women and children who benefit from the grants awarded to the non-profits.

BUSINESS

Business

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

GilbertSunNews.com

@Gilber tSunNews

/Gilber tSunNews

Gilbert woman’s ‘micro-school’ serves home-schooled kids GSN NEWS STAFF

ourteen years ago, Lara DeRoule needed a break. The Gilbert woman had been a Pre-K-2 teacher for 15 years, both in Mesa Public Schools and a small private school, but tired of the bureaucracy of a public school system and decided to become a dental hygienist. “It just was a bunch of testing at that time where I felt like we weren’t really using what we found out,” the Gilbert woman said. Now, DeRoule is back in school – her own. Two years ago, she started Dynamic Micro School, riding on a wave of a growing interest in small-group schools that are neither charters nor public and that aim for home-schooled children from Pre-K level to sixth grade. Working in an old barn on the Supersti-

Lara DeRoule of Gilbert runs a micro-school on the Superstition Farm in Mesa for homeschooled children. (Pablo Robles/GSN Staff Photographer) tion Farm in east Mesa, her goal is to help a group of no more than 15 “highly sensitive children find freedom, flexibility

and fun in their learning environment so they can build the scaffolds they need to pursue their passions, enjoy life and con-

tribute positively to the community.” At a time when many campuses are closed because of the pandemic, microschools are gaining popularity as parents look for a nontraditional environment that offers classes small enough to encourage social distancing while countering the isolation often associated with online learning at home. DeRoule said her school is an enrichment program for children who are home-schooled. “It’s kind of cool for parents who want their kids to be in school,” said DeRoule, a certified teacher. “They’re able to socialize and we have a lot of open air and the kids can wear or not wear masks – whatever their parents want them to do. It’s just if a parent wants everybody else to be wearing a mask, I can’t guarantee that. Everybody has to be respectful of

see

MICRO page 32

2 Gilbert companies step up to give back

GSN NEWS STAFF

wo Gilbert companies are pitching in to meet various needs created by the pandemic. While Debbie Medina Gach, president and co-founder of Senor Rio Tequila and Jalisco International Imports, donated $6,456 to St. Mary’s Food Bank, global wellness company Isagenix donated nearly $23,000 in products to sustain volunteers working 10-12 hour shifts administering COVID-19 vaccine. “We are absolutely thrilled to make this donation to St. Mary’s Food Bank. It’s such an important cause to be able to help given the environment we’re in both nationally and globally,” said Gach. Last April, Gach was asked about businesses’ strategies for surviving the pandemic. It was then that she pledged to

Volunteers from Gilbert-based Isagenix brought nourishment to workers who are administering the COVID-19 vaccine at Chandler-Gilbert Community College. (Special to GSN)

donate to help feed families $1 for every bottle of Senor Rio tequila sold at Total Wine & More in Arizona. Gach also is looking for other companies to match that donation, stating “it is not too late…together we are stronger and can help more families in need.” Senor Rio brand ambassadors in partnership with the Total Wine & More sold approximately 6,456 bottles across the 11 stores. Given that every $1,000 generates 7,000 meals, the donation of $6,456 will create over 45,000 meals for families in need. “It’s a testament really, not just to our Senor Rio family, in partnership with Total Wine & More, but also the wonderful people at St. Mary’s Food Bank,”

see

HELP page 32

BUSINESS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

MICRO from page 31

everyone else’s decision. I try to wear a mask when I’m close enough to the kids.” Dynamic Micro School also is a kind of throwback to the little old schoolhouse, where kids of different ages all learn together. Because it’s on Superstition Farm, which is partly an animal rescue, “it’s a cool place for the kids to be because of the animals,” said DeRoule, adding students also work in the garden as they learn about plants and how to grow them. Though her students sit at desks in the cleaned-out barn for now, DeRoule is planning to work with the farm owner and eventually have a school building that will look very much like a one-room schoolhouse. Although all her students are in one place, she said, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re all learning the same thing, as there are some lessons for the entire group and others requiring her to break them into smaller groups based on their ages. Currently, her students range in age from 4 to 12. “It’s more based on what a child’s ready for next – in math, science, reading, whatever – rather than ‘you’re in fifth grade, so this is what you’re supposed to be doing.’” She said a typical day comprises “a lot of hands-on, project-based…guided learning” and that Fridays are devoted to

kids’ “passion projects.” “There also are certain skills I want to get across and in most cases it’s an enrichment for kids who are already home schooled, so it’s not necessarily for everybody,” she continued. “My son for one is online through Chandler Online Academy but he’s able to integrate coming with me and doing his online school. He brings his computer and he does online classes and he joins us for other stuff.”

Gachsaid. “We feel very blessed to have teamed up with such a great foundation.” Gach is in her 11th year of selling her small batch ultra-premium tequila. Meanwhile, Isagenix donated protein meal replacement shakes and bars and over 3,700 energy drinks to the workers administering vaccines. Isagenix also donated shaker cups to help volunteers make the shakes. “We’re honored to help nourish and energize the people who are so generously giving their time to provide critical vaccinations to frontline workers,” said Isagenix Chief Legal Officer and ISA Foundation board member Justin Powell. “We’re also grateful to Dignity Health for leading this important volunteer effort. Seeing the community pull

together has been inspiring.” Dignity Health is managing the COVID-19 vaccination effort in collaboration with Chandler Gilbert Community College, Maricopa County Department of Public Health and local police and fire departments. Medical staff have been administering vaccines and volunteers have been assisting with the vaccination site logistics since Dec. 21. So far, they’ve administered 21 percent of the COVID-19 vaccinations given in Arizona. “We are sincerely grateful for the ongoing support for our dedDebbie Medina Gach, founder and owner of Senor icated health care teams at DigRio Tequila and Jalisco International Products helped nity Health in Arizona,” said Julie St. Mary’s Food Bank. (Special to GSN) Alvarado, director of philanthropy

HELP from page 31

Helping out on a garden are Dynamic Micro School students Ezra Day and Hayden Wortman. (Pablo Robles/GSN Staff Photographer)

Much of what happens depends on the student’s age, DeRoule said, explaining that the younger ones “might actually switch projects or switch their subject for their project every week where the older child might study the same thing for four or five or six weeks. It just depends.” Dynamic Micro School is not a franchise, though DeRoule is plugged into a network of similar schools to exchange ideas. Dynamic Micro School has four different

options, which also can be combined in different ways. The four-day-a-week program provides 80 hours of instruction a month 8 a.m.-1 p.m.; the two-day-a-week program offers 40 hours of instruction a month. There also are the Passion Project Fridays and Spectacular Saturday Gatherings that meets once a month and focuses on art and STEM subjects. And parents must provide proof their child is registered as a home-schooled student. Now that she is back to teaching, DeRoule finds her school is more suited to the ideas she had about education when she was a teacher in public schools, which she found too regimented in the way they expected teachers to reach students. “I’m kind of going back to my roots,” she said. “I’m able to go back and extract those things that I thought were most valuable to the kids and most fun – honestly to teach not subject wise but in a manner of teaching,” she said. “We can pick a theme and we can cover the different parts of academic through that theme or we can teach it through the way the kids are interested. We don’t have to pull out the Harcourt Brace second grade book and read this story because that’s what we’re supposed to do this week.” Information: campdynamic.com. for the Dignity Health Foundation – East Valley. “This incredibly generous donation from Isagenix is another great example of how our community is really rallying together to support one another during these unprecedented times. We are proud to be part of the East Valley, providing exceptional health care and human kindness to our neighbors.”

See MORE Onlin www.GilbertSunNews.com

Sports & Recreation GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

GilbertSunNews.com

@Gilber tSunNews

/Gilber tSunNews

SPORTS

Check us out and like Gilbert Sun News on Facebook and follow @GilbertSunNews on Twitter

Players, coaches take in unusual basketball atmosphere BY ZACH ALVIRA GSN Sports Editor

layers sat staggered in three rows of chairs or bleachers, much like what has been seen in the NBA and in college basketball. A personal water bottle sits next to the player’s designated seat, which remains their own throughout the duration of the game. Whether on the bench or in the middle of a fast break on the court, masks remain above the mouth and nose. If it slips down, coaches or referees remind players to pull it up. Usually, however, players are disciplined enough to remember themselves. It’s that type of discipline that the coaches and players across the state hope remains intact throughout the duration of the winter sports season, which was almost lost after the Arizona Interscholastic Association Executive Board voted to cancel the season altogether. Four days later, however, a revote reinstated the season. Now, the main focus is on keeping it going. “It was kind of weird,” Perry coach Sam Duane said after his team’s win over Hamilton. “When we went on a run, we didn’t have that crowd to get us pumped up. We told our guys we had to bring our own energy.” Duane, a longtime coach at Perry, anticipated the possibility for a mask mandate for all participating athletes about a month ago. It was at that time he began requiring his players to wear masks while in practice. The same rule was adopted at other schools across the East Valley, including at all those in Tempe Union High School District, which required masks in the fall during practice for all athletes. But what Duane didn’t anticipate was the ominous feeling in the gymnasium with limited crowd.

steps to ensure maximum mitigation efforts. The new-look In between junior varsity and basketball season began Tuesday, varsity games Tuesday night, school Jan. 19 for teams administrators cleared the gymnasium like Perry and of all fans before allowing spectators Hamilton, who for varsity in. This allowed for limited were forced to number of people in the gym at one time. sit staggered on At Perry, where the varsity girls took on benches with Hamilton, similar crowd sizes were seen. personal water bottles and wore And unlike during the fall season, where masks at all times. there was limited action taken against (Pablo Robles/GSN fans who did may have pulled down Staff) masks while seated both in the gyms and football fields, policy was strictly enforced When the Pumas faced and followed. Hamilton on the road to “We were able to get start the season Tuesday, used to the masks, but Jan. 19, only a crowd of with no crowd noise it about 20 people were in was definitely different,” the stands opposite the Perry senior point guard benches. A small handful Christian Tucker said. “But of that crowd was media. at the end of the day we Per AIA guidelines, only are just happy to be able to two parents per a player go out there and play the on the home team are game. We are glad to be allowed to attend games. back on the floor.” That means no cheer While the atmosphere for some schools, no was far different from band and no student-led year’s past, when overflow chants that make high crowds were common at school basketball one games that feature teams of the rowdiest sports Per guidelines set by the Arizona Interscholastic Association, only two parents per of Perry and Hamilton’s player from the home team are allowed to attend events.That resulted in a crowd throughout the season. caliber, all involved agree of about 20 people for the Perry game against Hamilton. (Pablo Robles/GSN Staff) And for Perry, that meant the strict guidelines are playing a game with no fans of their own. situations because their voices are better than not playing at all. “Not having my family there to support no longer drowned out by home or Duane believes as the season me, it made it feel more like a practice or opposing student sections. Coaches have progresses and players, coaches and fans scrimmage,” Perry 7-foot junior Dylan to proceed with caution, too, as even the become more accustomed to the unusual Anderson said. “The energy definitely slightest elevation in the volume of their atmosphere, some games may return to wasn’t there from the crowd.” voice against a referee will no longer go some semblance of normalcy. While music played between quarters unnoticed. But safety is always key when and at halftime, the feeling wasn’t nearly “You definitely have to watch your attempting to play through a global the same. Parents, who at times can mouth while playing,” Anderson said. pandemic. become rowdy, virtually sat in silence “They can hear everything you say. But it “For the first game, it’s different for throughout the game. feels great. First game, first win, I’m just everyone,” Duane said. “But I we will Anderson said he and other players had glad to be in this position.” all learn as we go on and games will get to watch for what they say in frustrating Schools like Hamilton are taking extra better and better.”

SPORTS

JANUARY 20, 2021 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

STRONGER TOGETHER

King Crossword ACROSS

Apartment Homes Now is a Apartment Homes for 55+! Now is a for great55+! time to move-in!

1 5 8 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 22 26 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 40 41 45 47 49 50 51 52 53 54 55

Wordsworth work Spasm Billie -- King Against Granada gold Sea eagle 500 sheets Chess piece Right on the map? On an angle Dines Donald Duck’s outfit Birth-related “Exodus” hero Vitamin stat Prior nights Pvt.’s superior Grant basis, at times Seminary subj. Take to court Smartens (up) Produce aisle display Pan handler? Rookie Boyfriend Business mag Press Formerly, once French vineyard Bandleader Puente Makes lace “Dig in!” Salty septet

great time to move-in!

STRONGER STRONGER TOGETHER TOGETHER

• Continuum of care campus with onsite home health • Staff available 24/7

with onsite home health INDEPENDENT LIVING

• Staff informed and prepared with most up-to-date • Continuum of care campus COVID-19 information

All-inclusive monthly rates as low as

• Apartment•homes and ready Staffdisinfected available 24/7for move-in

2100

• Environmental cleaning specialists on-site daily

• Staff informed and prepared with most up-to-date COVID-19 information

• Caring neighbors look out for one another

Call Today for More Information!

39 42 43 44

Full-length Party cheese Greek vowel Seth’s son

• Apartment homes disinfected and ready for move-in 480.345.7171 Homes for 55+! Now Apartment Homes forinclude: 55+!daily Now isis aagreat greattime timeto tomove-in! move-in! All apartment prices •Apartment Environmental cleaning specialists on-site AR-GCI0471325-02

• Caring neighbors look out• Weekly for one housekeeping another • All utilities services • Two meals-a-day • Basic cable television Call Today for More Information! • Emergency call-system in each • Scheduled transportation apartment • Activities and entertainment 480.345.7171 •• Continuum Continuum of of care carecampus campuswith withonsite onsitehome homehealth health •• Staff Staff available available 24/7 24/7 •• Staff Staff informed informed and andprepared preparedwith withmost mostup-to-date up-to-date COVID-19 information COVID-19 information •• Apartment Apartment homes homesdisinfected disinfectedand andready readyfor formove-in move-in •• Environmental Environmental cleaning cleaningspecialists specialistson-site on-sitedaily daily •• Caring Caring neighbors neighborslook lookout outfor forone oneanother another

Call Call Today Today for for More More Information! Information!

480.345.7171 480.345.7171

2555 N Price Rd. Chandler, AZ 85224 | 480.345.7171 NorthChandlerPlace.com

45 Wager 46 Historic period 48 Big D.C. lobby

Sudoku

DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 19 21 23 24 25 26 27 28 32 33 35 36 38

Law firm aide, for short Till bills List-ending abbr. Brunch cocktails “Only Love” actress Marisa Lyricist Gershwin Monarch’s spouse Army vehicles Test-paper smudges Reply (Abbr.) Court divider Chum Swiss canton Beer type Nantes notion Tiny amounts Soft ball? Say it’s so Put on the air Be enough Blockheads That lady Golfer Michelle Closes

AR-GCI0471325-02

Norton eering cludes the tec ness In 3rd par tions. W 24x7 p from jobads@ and job

LA AR-GCI0471325-02 AR-GCI0471325-02

AS L PUZZLESANSWERS ANSWERSononpage page1622 PUZZLE

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

GilbertSunNews.com

@Gilber tSunNews

GET OUT

/Gilber tSunNews

Gilbert duo rock Mesa with Venezuelan dishes BY MELODY BIRKETT GetOut Contributor

rvid and Maria Fernana Cutler opened their Venezuelan restaurant six months ago in downtown Mesa, but the Gilbert couple have been rolling with their dishes for a lot longer than that. The Cutlers, who run Que Chevere (cay shev-ray), have been operating a food truck for four years after they chucked their previous jobs for the restaurant business, something they’d never been involved in before. Orvid previously worked in mortgage banking and Maria at a web hosting company. Maria moved to the U.S. in 2003 from Barquisimeto, Venezuela, and years later met Orvid, whose family moved to Arizona from Idaho when he was 9. Once Maria shared her Venezuelan cuisine with him, Orvid said he felt the need to share it with the public. After many years of talking about it, Que Chevere food truck was born. Maria uses family recipes from her mom and grandmother. “I kept cooking for him and he kept saying, ‘We’re going to do a restaurant’ and I was like, “No, it’s a lot of work. Let’s not do it,’” said Maria. “And then one day he said, ‘I’m going to get the food truck.’” Orvid said it took six months to build the truck, explaining, “I believe in the food so much, I spent all of my savings on a food truck.” “The food truck has a limited menu because there are things we can’t cook in the food truck that we can do at the restaurant,” he explained. “That was one of the main reasons we opened the restaurant - so we could expand the menu.”

Gilbert residents Orvid and Maria Fernana Cutler opened Que Chevere in downtown Mesa, bringing Venezuelan cuisine to the East Valley. (Melody Birkett/Get Out Contributor)

Since opening the restaurant, the food truck is not out as much. The couple used to take it out up to five times a week but now only do that once a week. What makes Venezuelan food unique? “One of the things is called arepas,” replied Maria. “It’s made out of corn dough. We cook it on a flat top on both sides and once it’s cooked, we cut it in half and then stuff it with shredded beef or chicken. “Our empanadas are different because they’re not pastry-based. They’re cornbased. Those are deep-fried but arepas are not.” The restaurant also serves patacon, two smashed fried plantains. “It’s almost like the top and bottom

of bread and then you fill it,” explained Orvid. “It’s like a sandwich. We put shredded beef, shredded chicken, cheese and different Venezuelan sauces inside.” Cachapas are corn pancakes with a soft white Venezuelan cheese inside, topped with shredded white cheese with an option to add protein. Orvid said Venezuelan food is not spicy. “It’s vegetables. It’s the contrast of sweet and salty. We’ll throw a sweet plantain in with a salty cheese. The contrast is phenomenal.” Maria does most of the cooking but Orvid assists. “It’s amazing food,” said Orvid. “There’s nothing like it. You can’t compare it to any other cuisine. It’s nothing like Mexican food. My mom is Mexican and made fresh

tortillas every day. “Everything we put out is a 10. People ask, ‘What’s your favorite?’ I’m afraid to tell them my favorite because they’ll miss out on something else on the menu.” Orvid admits it’s not always easy working together but, “We love it. We’ve always spent a lot of time together.” The couple married 11 years ago and have three children. Maria said running a restaurant has been a good experience. “We try to divide the work. We complement each other with our skill sets.” The pandemic has impacted business. “It has been down a little bit,” said Maria. “Thankfully, because of our food truck and our amazing followers we’ve been able to stay afloat,” adding that many customers come to the restaurant after visiting the food truck. She said it also helps there’s not another Venezuelan restaurant in the area. “I think a lot of the key to our success is that we’re both here,” Orvid explained. “People get to meet us. They like the feeling of meeting the owners and knowing who’s making their food and knowing that we care and there’s passion behind it.” The couple try to make it out on the floor as much as possible to talk to customers. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner and has a bar. And they appreciate the loyalty of their patrons. “We’re only as good as they make us,” Orvid said. “We try our hardest with everything we do. Maria’s very passionate about everything she does. We try and give good service, good food. I’m appreciative of everyone.” Information: quechevereaz.com, 142 W. Main St., Mesa; 480-474-4954.

Check us out and like the Gilbert Sun News on Facebook and follow @gilbertsunnews on Twitter.

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

Obituaries Marilyn Jean Leafdale

Obituaries Nancy D. Cords Mesa AZ/Madison WI, Nancy D Cords (Schuh), Age 80, died after a long battle with respiratory issues at Gilbert Mercy Hospital in Gilbert AZ on Monday January 11, 2021. She was born on March 12, 1940 in Madison Wisconsin, the daughter of Peter and Lorraine Schuh and graduated from Madison East High School in 1958. She was married to Robert G Cords in November of 1958 and lived in the Madison WI area until 1980 when they to Arizona. Husband Robert moved passed away in 2004. Nancy's nickname was "Fancy Nancy" and her first job was at Federal Bake Shop on Mifflin Street and jobs worked in various administrative most notably with Wisconsin Teachers Madison Water Utility, J&C Retirement, Plumbing and Dane County Health and Human Services before moving to Arizona. There, she worked for the City of Tempe as an Administrative Supervisor in their Public Works Department. Nancy was a devoted wife and loving mother. She routinely siphoned money away from her budget to provide the children with extra clothes or treats rather than spend on her needs. Over the years she and Robert fostered and adopted stray dogs with regularity and at one time had 6 dogs in the household. Nancy is survived by her four sons, Robert (Amiee) of Jacksonville FL, Donald in San Diego CA, William (Cecilia) in Leonardtown MD, and Steven in Mesa AZ, 8 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren: brother Paul Schuh in Dalton GA. She will be buried with her husband Robert at the Medina Cemetery in Marshall WI. Funeral Services will be postponed until a proper gathering can be convened to celebrate her life. Instead of flowers, in honor of her kindness to animals please donate to your local Human Society or no kill shelters. Sign the Guestbook at: obituaries.EastValleyTribune.com

Marilyn Jean Leafdale (age 81) died peacefully in her sleep early Sunday morning, December 20, 2020, in Mesa, Arizona. She died of colon cancer, after receiving Memory and Hospice Care at Brookdale North Mesa. She was born in Kimball, Nebraska, November 15, 1939. She is survived by her brother, Keith L. Leafdale of Auburn, California, a nephew, Kevin Salger in Long Beach, CA, two nieces, Laura Sy in Cool, CA, and Debra Grady, in Whiting, NJ, and by many first cousins, and many in the next generation, in a dozen states. She was preceded in death by her parents, C. Edgar Leafdale (1991), Inez L. Leafdale (1975) and sister Amber Cook (1993). Marilyn graduated with the Mesa High School class of 1956; she held three academic degrees, two Baccalaureates and one Masters, from Arizona State University. With degrees in art as well in business management, she received recognition for managing the restoration and re-purposing of the high rise Pioneer Hotel in Tucson, following damage by fire in1970. That led to a specialty in real estate property management, which she followed in both CA and AZ. Marilyn enjoyed quilting and restoration of old family quilts, multiple art forms including graphics and photography. Her work was published in the book We Walk in Sandy Places, co-authored with Byrd Baylor, featuring Marilyn's photos of tracks of insects and small creatures on Arizona's desert sands. Cremation was arranged at Regency Mortuary in Sun City, per Marilyn's wishes. No memorial or funeral service has been planned during the Covid-19 pandemic. Marilyn would be pleased with any contributions that are made in her memory to the scholarship programs at Arizona State (https://alumni.asu.edu/give-back/donate). Sign the Guestbook at: obituaries.EastValleyTribune.com

Obituaries Karen Sue Stevens

Karen Sue Stevens, loving daughter, wife, mother, sister and friend, passed away on January 11, 2021 at the age of 61 after a hard fought battle with cancer. Karen was born on November 7,1959 in Garden Grove, California to Alvin and Donna Kunau. The eldest of seven children, she grew up in Southern California and graduated from Elsinore Union High School. Karen was an accomplished horse woman who loved the outdoors, a passion she passed on to her daughter Jessica. She was a skilled seamstress who recently started a business with her daughter, designing and producing custom western wear for women. A true renaissance woman, her talents also included: illustrating, painting, earning her private pilot's certificate and being a music aficionado. Karen is preceded in death by her mother Donna Kunau and brother Richard Kunau. She is survived by her husband Ron Stevens, children Jessica Stevens, Ryan Stevens, father Alvin (Al) Kunau, siblings Cindy Blackmon, Loren Kunau, Julie (Robert) Watson, Lloyd Kunau, Jennifer (Eric) Sommers and her many nieces and nephews. Send condolences to the family at: awisechoice.com

Need help writing an obituary? We have articles that will help guide you through the process. Deadline for obituaries is Wednesday at 5pm for Sunday. All obituaries will be approved by our staff prior to being activated. Be aware there may be early deadlines around holidays.

Call 480-898-6465 Mon-Fri 8:30-5 if you have questions. Visit: obituaries.EastValleyTribune.com

HEADSTONES Make your choice Everlasting

EVERLASTING MONUMENT Co.

Your newspaper. Your community. Your planet.

MONUMENTS • GRANITE & BRONZE • CEMETERY LETTERING • CUSTOM DESIGNS

Please recycle me.

75 W. Baseline Rd. Ste. A-8, Gilbert, AZ 85233

“Memories cut in Stone”

480-969-0788

www.everlastingmonumentco.com info@everlastingmonument.phxcoxmail.com

Employment Employment General

Employment General

Virtuouspros has openings for Software Engineers in Phoenix, AZ. Reqs US Masters degree/foreign equiv or Bach + 5 yrs exp w/ skills in MS SQL/Oracle/J2EE/JSP/HTML/ Java to analyze/design/develop/ implement/test systems & apps. Email resume to Tanya at tanya@ virtuouspros.com with ref no 2021-19 & ref ad in EVT

Water Eng (Mesa, AZ): Water/wastewater engin’g, incl. design, hydraulic modeling, microbiology analysis, treatment process, permitting & project mgmt. Research treatment techs & prepare reports. Ensure compliance w/ safety reqs. Req: MS Enviro Eng’g, 1 yr exp., Civil 3D, AutoCAD, ArcGIS, Microbiology & ROSA. Resumes to: Brandon Denicke Sunrise Engineering 6875 S. 900 E. SLC, UT 84047

Employment General HUMAC, Inc has openings for the following positions in Phoenix, AZ and/or client sites throughout the US. Must be willing to travel/relocate. IT Engineer reqs US Masters/equiv or bachelors + 5 yrs exp to design/dev/test systems/apps using Java/J2EE/HTML/CSS/Unix/Windows. IT Analyst reqs US Bachelors/equiv (3 or 4 yr degree) to test/maintain/monitor systems/programs using SQL/Oracle/Java/Hadoop/Unix. Send resume to jobs@humacinc.com with ref # 2021-19 for IT Eng; 2021-21 for IT Analyst & ref this ad AGGREGATE COMPANY IS SEEKING A FULL-TIME HR & PAYROLL CLERK • 2-3 years exp’d HR and processing Payroll experience in ADP • Solid understanding of payroll & payroll tax laws • Maintain integrity of HR database by reviewing personnel and payroll documents. • Maintains payroll information by collecting, calculating and entering data; making adjustments. • Maintains quality control by reconciling each payroll prior to finalization. Resolves payroll discrepancies • Must have knowledge of Microsoft Office, Excel, Word, ADP Payroll. • Excellent written & verbal communication skills, strong accuracy and detail skills. • Ability to work in a team oriented environment • Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). • Bachelor’s degree or similar work experience required. • Must possess a driver’s license and be insurable. Deadline: January 29, 2021. Please submit application and resume for consideration Further questions, please call 520-418-4026. Resume & application can also be faxed to: 520-418-2109 or emailed at clara@grsg.com . Application online at www.grsg.com

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

Gilbert Sun News

1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway #219 • Tempe, AZ 85282 480.898.6465 class@timespublications.com

Deadlines

Classifieds: Thursday 11am for Sunday Life Events: Thursday 10am for Sunday

The Place “To Find” Everything You Need | GilbertSunNews.com Employment General TechMileage has openings for the following positions in Scottsdale, AZ area. Software Engineers reqs US Masters degree/foreign equiv or Bach degree + 5 yrs experience w/ skills in Java/Jscript/SOAP/CSS/ Clear Case to dsgn/dev/implement/test apps/systems. Sr. Programmer Analyst reqs US Bachelors/equiv (3 or 4 yr degree) in Commerce/BusAdm/STEM field to analyze/resolve/test/report on IT related projects using skills in EMC/MS/SQL/ Excel/Java/C. Email resume to techmileagejobs @gmail.com with ref # 2021-19 for Software Eng; 2021-20 for Sr. Prog Analyst & ref EVT ad.

MISSED THE DEADLINE? Place your ad online! Call 480-898-6465

Employment General Hiring Auto Technician / Auto Mechanic Both Experienced and Entry-Level Huffs Automotive Chandler AZ . HuffsAutomotive.com Submit Resume for Consideration

huffsautomotive @yahoo.com 480-726-8900

Announce

ments Religion Healing Ministry Sufi Tradition If interested send letter of inquiry care of Master Warren Muen 4340 E. Indian School Rd, Ste 21-126, Phoenix, AZ 85018.

Manufactured Homes

Wanted to Buy

Diabetic Test Strips by the box, unused. Any type or brand. Will pay top dollar. Call Pat 480-323-8846 WANTED BY COLLECTOR OLDER MODEL 22 CALIBER RIFLES AND HANDGUNS IN NICE CONDITION CONSIDER OTHERS I DO NOT SELL GUNS. CALL WITH WHAT YOU HAVE. LEE 602-448-6487

Cemetery Lots FOR SALE 2 CEMETERY PLOTS Mountainview Cemetery Mesa $2,400 or best offer Contact Lisa at (612) 400-5937 goodlisa691 @gmail.com

Real Estate

For Rent

THE LINKS ESTATES Why Rent The Lot When

YOU CAN OWN THE LAND And Own Your New Home

FROM THE UPPER 100’S

ASK US HOW YOUR $105,000 CASH INVESTMENT AND OUR SENIOR LOAN PROGRAM ENABLES QUALIFIED 62+ SENIORS MAKING THE LINKS THEIR PRIMARY RESIDENCE HAVE NO MORTGAGE PAYMENT & NO LOT RENT AS LONG AS YOU LIVE IN HOME.

Gawthorp & Associates Realty 40667 N Wedge Dr • San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

602-402-2213

www.linksestates.net

Homes For Rent

Cash 4 Diabetic Strips! Best Prices in Town. Sealed and Unexpired. 480-652-1317

Apartments APACHE TRAIL & IRONWOOD Secluded Cute Studio, A/C $650/Month Bad Credit ok No Deposit. Water/Trash Inc. (602) 339-1555 ALMA SCH & MAIN 1b 1 bath duplex Income verified UTILITIES INCLUDED Bad Credit OK. No Deposit Close to Lightrail $700 (602) 339-1555

Service Directory Air Conditioning/Heating Family Owned & Operated

PUBLIC NOTICE The City of Chandler Housing and Redevelopment is requesting comments on the proposed 2021 Annual Plan and Capital Fund prepared for the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The plans are the City of Chandler’s comprehensive guides to the policies, programs, operations, and strategies for meeting local housing needs and goals. The plans are available for review at the Housing Office located at 235 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, AZ, 85225, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on our website chandleraz.gov/affordablehousing from Jan. 24, 2021 to March 8, 2021. A Public Hearing will be held during the Housing and Human Services Commission (HHSC) meeting on Feb. 10, 2021 at 6 p.m., located at 235 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, AZ, 85225 (Due to social distancing guidelines, please contact the Housing Office at 480-782-3200 to request information on how to attend the meeting, or go to the website at chandleraz.gov/affordablehousing to view the Public Hearing information.) Written comments addressed to “Annual Plan” must be received by March 8, 2021 at 5 p.m. (MST); may be mailed or dropped off at 235 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, AZ 85225; or emailed to chandler.housing@chandleraz.gov. For more information, please contact Amy Jacobson at 480-782-3200. Persons with disabilities requiring assistance or alternative forms can contact the Housing Office at 480-782-3200 or the Arizona Relay Service at 800-367-8939 or TTY 7-1-1, TTY English 800-367-8939, or Español 800842-2088, or email chandler.housing@chandleraz.gov. Equal Housing Opportunity

AVISO PÚBLICO El Departamento de Vivienda y Redesarrollo de la Ciudad de Chandler está solicitando comentarios sobre el Plan Anual y Fondo de Capital de 2021 propuesto que fue preparado para el Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano de los Estados Unidos (HUD por sus siglas en inglés). Los planes son las guías integrales de la Ciudad de Chandler para sus normas, programas, operaciones, y estrategias para satisfacer las necesidades y metas locales de la vivienda. Los planes están disponibles para su revisión en la Oficina de Vivienda, ubicada en 235 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, AZ, 85225, de lunes a viernes, de 8 a.m. a 5 p.m., y en nuestro sitio web chandleraz.gov/affordablehousing del 24 de enero de 2021 al 8 de marzo de 2021. El 10 de febrero de 2021 a las 6 p.m. en 235 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, AZ, 85225, se llevará a cabo una Audiencia Pública durante la reunión de la Comisión de Vivienda y Servicios Humanos (HHSC por sus siglas en inglés). (Debido a las directrices de distanciamiento social, por favor póngase en contacto con la Oficina de Vivienda al 480-782-3200 para solicitar información sobre cómo asistir a la reunión, o visite el sitio web en chandleraz.gov/affordablehousing para ver la información de la Audiencia Pública.) Los comentarios por escrito relacionados con el “Plan Anual” se deben recibir antes del 8 de marzo de 2021 a las 5 p.m. (tiempo estándar de la montaña); se pueden enviar por correo a ó entregarse en 235 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, AZ 85225; ó se pueden enviar por correo electrónico a chandler.housing@chandleraz.gov. Para más información, por favor llame a Amy Jacobson al 480-782-3200. Las personas con discapacidades que requieran asistencia o formas alternativas pueden llamar a la Oficina de Vivienda al 480-782-3200 ó al Servicio de Relevo de Arizona al 1-800-367-8939 ó TTY al 7-1-1, TTY inglés al 1-800-367-8939, ó español al 1-800-842-2088, ó enviar una nota electrónica a chandler.housing@chandleraz.gov. Oportunidades Equitativas para la Vivienda. Published: East Valley Tribune, January 24, 2021 / 35714

Three Phase Mechanical

480-671-0833

www.3phasemech.com Sales, Service & Installation

NO TRIP CHARGE • NOT COMMISSION BASED ROC# 247803 Bonded • Insured

ACCREDITED BUSINESS

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

QUALITY, VALUE and a GREAT PRICE!

Lifetime Warranty on Workmanship Furnace / AC Tune Up - $69 New 3-Ton AC Units - now $3,995 New Trane Air Conditioners NO INTEREST FINANCING - 60 MONTHS!

‘A’ RATED AC REPAIR FREE ESTIMATE SAME DAY SERVICE

Bonded/Insured • ROC #289252

480-405-7588

ItsJustPlumbSmart.com Appliance Repairs

Appliance Repair Now

If It’s Broken, We Can Fix It! • Same Day Service • On-Site Repairs • Servicing All Major Brands • Quality Guaranteed

We Also Buy, Sell & Trade Used Appliances Working or Not

480-659-1400 Licensed & Insured

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

Garage/Doors

Glass/Mirror

GARAGE DOOR SERVICE

GLASS, MIRRORS, SHOWER DOORS

East Valley/ Ahwatukee

Broken Springs Replaced Nights/Weekends Bonded/Insured 480-251-8610

Not a licensed contractor

Handyman HANDYMAN 37 years experience. Drywall, framing, plumbing, painting, electrical, roofing and more. Stan, 602-434-6057

Family Owned with 50 years' EXPERIENCE. Shower and tub enclosures, Framed, Frameless or Custom Doors, We also install insulated glass, mirrored closet doors, window glass, mirrors, patio doors, glass table protectors. If it’s glass, we can help you. QUALITY SERVICE at Competitive Prices. FREE Estimates

WESLEY'S GLASS & MIRROR wesleysglass.com SERVICING THE ENTIRE VALLEY Call 480-306-5113

Concrete & Masonry

Block Fence * Gates

602-789-6929 Roc #057163 Lowest Prices * 30 Yrs Exp Serving Entire Valley

Home Improvement

OUR JOB BOARD HAS THE TALENT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR.

HOME REMODELING LLC REPAIRS & CUSTOM INTERIOR PAINTING • Drywall Repair • Electrical Repair Move a wall; turn a • Bathroom • Plumbing Repair door into a window. Remodeling • Dry rot and termite From small jobs and • Home Renovations damage repair repairs to room additions, I do it all. GENERAL CONTRACTOR / HANDYMAN SERVICES SERVING THE ENTIRE VALLEY Precision interior FIND THE painting, carpentry, BEST TALENT. All Estimates are Free • Call: Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! drywall, tile, www.husbands2go.com EASILY Painting • Flooring • Electrical windows, doors, Licensed, Bonded & •Insured • ROC#317949 Plumbing Drywall • Carpentry POST JOBS. skylights, electrical, Decks • Tile • More! fans, plumbing and Ask me about FREE water testing! COMPETITIVE PRICINGMarks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! more. AND EXPOSURE Marks the Spot for ALL•Your Handyman Needs! ✔ Painting Painting Flooring • Electrical All trades done by “No Job Too More info: 480-898-6465 ✔Small Flooring Painting • Flooring • Electrical Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry hands-on Man!” or email jobposting@evtrib.com Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry ✔ Electrical Decks • Tile • More! General Contractor. 1999 Quality Work Since Decks •Affo Tile • More! rdable, ✔ Plumbing Friendly, artistic, 2010, 2011 2012, 2013, intelligent, honest and 2014 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 ✔ Drywall Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor “No Job affordable. ✔ Carpentry 40 years' experience. Too Small Marks the Spot for“No Job Too ALL Your Handyman Needs! ✔ Decks Call Ron Wolfgang Painting • Flooring • Electrical Small Man!” “No Job Too Man!” Most jobs also appear on Indeed.com ✔ Tile Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry Pleas text or leave Small Man!” Decks • Tile • More! ✔ Kitchens message ce 1999 Sin rk Wo y alit Qu e, Affordabl ✔ Bathrooms Cell 602-628-9653 BSMALLMAN@Q.COM 2010, 2011 rk Since 1999 2012, “No 2013, Job Too Affordable, Quality Wo Wolfgang And More! 2010, 2011 Small Man!” 2014 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 MISSED THE DEADLINE? 2012, 2013, Construction Inc. 2014 Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ NotResident a Licensed Contractor Since 1999 Ahwatukee / References Work ty Quali , Place your ad online! dable Affor 2010, 2011 Licensed & Bonded Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor 2012, 2013, Insured / Not aCall Licensed Contractor 2014 Bruce at 602.670.7038 Call 480-898-6465 ROC 124934 Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor

520.508.1420

J BS. EASTVALLEY TRIBUNE.COM

Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038

C O N C RETE & M A S O N RY CONCRETE BLOCKWALL RETAINING WALL BLOCK FENCE PLANTER BBQ

FOUNDATION DRIVEWAY SIDEWALK PATIO

PAVER • CONCRETE REMOVAL • HARDSCAPE BONDED & INSURED • ROC#321648 SATISFACTION GUARANTEED! FREE ESTIMATES • 16 YEARS EXPERIENCE RESIDENTIAL CALL JOHN: 480.797.2985 COMMERCIAL

See MORE Ads Online!

Electrical Services

ACTION CONTRACTING INC. WE DO IT ALL!

Bath & Kitchen Remodels • Car-Port to Garage Conversion Drywall & Stucco Repairs • Plumbing • Electrical • Can Lights Windows • Doors • Cabinets • Painting • Block Fences Wrought Iron Gates • Remodeling • Additions • Patios Tenant Improvements

East Valley

480-833-7353 - Office 480-430-7737 - Cell A+

-S

E NC

LIC/BONDED/INSURED Res/Comm’l ROC#218802

aaaActionContractingInc.com

Irrigation

• Sprinkler/Drip Repairs • New Installs Poly/PVC • Same Day Service

NTY 5-YEAR WARRA

480.654.5600 azirrigation.com

Hauling

HONESTY • INTEGRITY • QUALITY

• Serving Arizona Since 2005 •

• Panel Changes and Repairs • Installation of Ceiling Fans • Switches/Outlets • Home Remodel

ALL RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL Call Jim Endres 480.282.7932

• Furniture • Appliances • Mattresses • Televisions • Garage Clean-Out • Construction Debris

• Old Paint & Chems. • Yard Waste • Concrete Slab

Sprinkler & Drip Systems Repairs • Modifications • Installs

• Remodeling Debris • Old Tires

Over 28 Years Experience • ROC #246019 Bonded/Insured

Garage/Doors OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE SERVICING & INSTALLING GARAGE DOORS AND OPERATORS

OPEN 24/7 • SERVING ALL OF METRO PHOENIX • HONEST AND REPUTABLE CUSTOMER SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

ANOZIRA DOOR SYSTEMS

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Home Improvement

Cutting Edge LLC • ROC 281671

YOU’LL LIKE US - THE BEST!

DESERT ROCK

Handyman

Home Improvement

General Contacting, Inc. Licensed • Bonded • Insured • ROC118198

One Call, We Do It All! 602-339-4766 Owner Does All Work, All Honey-Do Lists All Remodeling, Additions, Kitchen, Bath, Patio Covers, Garage, Sheds, Windows, Doors, Drywall & Roofing Repairs, Painting, All Plumbing, Electrical, Concrete, Block, Stucco, Stack Stone, All Flooring, Wood, Tile, Carpet, Welding, Gates, Fences, All Repairs.

Free Estimates with Pride & Prompt Service!

• 20 Years Experience • 6 Year Warranty

480.345.1800 ROC 304267 • Licensed & Bonded

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

Irrigation Repair Services Inc. Licensed • Bonded • Insured Technician

Specializing in Controllers, Valves, Sprinklers, Landscape Lighting, P.V.C. & Poly Drip Systems

East Valley PAINTERS

www.irsaz.com

ROC# 256752

Superstition Landscape Maintenance

showing, Pool Light out? I CAN HELP!

Call Juan at

480-720-3840 Not a licensed contractor.

10% OFF

Roofing

Free Estimates! Home of the 10-Year Warranty!

Call or Text Adrian 480•376•9803 or 480•925•1418

FREE Estimates

Insured/Bonded Free Estimates

480-688-4770

www.eastvalleypainters.com Family Owned & Operated

Now Accepting all major credit cards

Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131

Over 30 yrs. Experience

LANDSCAPING, TREES & MAINTENANCE

480-706-1453

Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099

HYDROJETTING

L L C

Prepare for Winter Season!

SEWER CABLE COMPREHENSIVE, FULL-SERVICE PLUMBING COMPANY

BOOK ONLINE! STATE48DRAINS.COM

PMB 435 • 2733 N. Power Rd. • Suite 102 • Mesa dennis@allprotrees.com

PLUMBERS CHARGE TOO MUCH!

Painting

HOME IMPROVEMENT & PAINTING Interior/Exterior Painting 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Dunn Edwards Quality Paint Small Stucco/Drywall Repairs

We Are State Licensed and Reliable!

Free Estimates • Senior Discounts ROC#309706

20+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED

JAMES MADISON PREPARATORY SCHOOL, INC 5815 S MCCLINTOCK DR. TEMPE, AZ 85283 480-345-2306 480-345-0059 (FAX) www.madisonprep.org Announces open enrollment for grades 6, 7, 8, 9, & 10 for 2021-2022 school year. The open enrollment period is February 1-19, 2021. IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT SUMMONS CASE NUMBER: 2020-CP-23- 05688 STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF GREENVILLE NINA BETH ALLEN, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Billy James Mood, Plaintiff, vs. SHAWN MICHELLE DILSAVER MOODY a/k/a SHAWN MICHELLE DILSAVER, Defendant. TO THE DEFENDANT ABOVE-NAMED: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the Complaint herein, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, or otherwise appear and defend, and to serve a copy of your answer to said Complaint upon the subscriber at his office, 32 E. Main Street, P.O. Box 315, Williamston, South Carolina, 29697, within thirty (30) days after service hereof, exclusive of the day of such service, and if you fail to answer the Complaint within the time aforesaid, or otherwise appear and defend, the Plaintiff in this action will apply to the Court for the relief demanded therein, and judgment by default will be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. s/ G. Lee Cole, Jr.____________ G. Lee Cole, Jr. SC Bar Number 100352 COX & COLE, ATTORNEYS AT LAW P.O. Box 315 Williamston, SC 29697 Tel. (864) Fax (864) 847-7895 847-9289 LeeCole@CoxandCole.com ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF Williamston, South Carolina Dated: 12/10/2020_________ Published: East Valley Tribune, Gilbert Sun News Jan. 24, 31, Feb. 7, 2021 / 35776

Find 9 things that are different.

ROC 3297740

Beat Any Price By 10% • Lifetime Warranty Water Heaters Installed - $799 Unclog Drains - $49 FREE RO UNIT w/Any WATER SOFTENER INSTALL NO INTEREST FINANCING - 60 Months!! ‘A’ RATED PLUMBING REPAIR Free Estimates • Same Day Service

Bonded/Insured • ROC #223709

480-405-7099 ItsJustPlumbSmart.com

Public Notices

Seeing Double

480-477-8842

Tree Trimming • Tree Removal Stump Grinding Storm Damage • Bushes/Shrubs Yard Clean-up Commercial and Residential

480-354-5802

Tiles, shingles, flat, repairs & new work Free Estimates • Ahwatukee Resident

Plumbing

ALL Pro

480-338-4011

FALL SPECIAL! $500 OFF COMPLETE REMODEL! 25 Years Experience • Dependable & Reliable

We Beat Competitors Prices & Quality

Junk Removal PLUS House Cleaning

S E R V I C E

PPebbleOcracking, O L Plaster R Epeeling, P ARebar IR

Paint Interior & Exterior • Drywall Repair Light Carpentry • Power Washing • Textures Matched Popcorn Removal • Pool Deck Coatings Garage Floor Coatings • Color Consulting

480.721.4146

T R E E

Juan Hernandez Pavers • Concrete • Water Features • Sprinkler Repair

Voted #1

Call Lance White

Honest & Reliable

Pool Service / Repair

Painting

ANSWERS: 1. Art in frame changed 2. Standing man -- champagne is now a spyglass 3. Package on left is now a die 4. Ladies hat changed 5. Sparkler is now a pinwheel 6. Left bottle on table has changed 7. One glass on table is missing 8. Sitting man has 3 legs and feet 9. Tie changed color

Landscape/Maintenance

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JANUARY 24, 2021

NOW OPEN

NOW OPEN HAPPY HOUR

Every Day 2pm-6pm and 10pm-CLOSE • $2 OFF ALL Draft Beer • $4 House Wine • $2 Well Drinks

• $4 Titos, Bacardi, Tanqueray, Herradura Silver, Jack Daniels

ALL DAY SPECIALS MONDAY $10 Burgers WEDNESDAY $10 Wraps

FRIDAY $9 Fish & Chips and Fishy Wrap

TUESDAY BUY ONE, GET ONE ALL APPETIZERS

SATURDAY $10 Pizzas SUNDAY $10 Pastas

THURSDAY BUY ONE, GET ONE WINGS & TENDERS

1026 S Gilbert Rd Gilbert AZ 85296 www.howlerssportsbar.com

480-687-2864

REGULAR HOURS : DAILY 11AM - 12AM