Gilbert Sun News 062322 by Times Media Group

Regional Park attractions?

Town enacts water alert

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An edition of the East Valley Tribune

INSIDE

This Week

NEWS....................... 8 GPS to install video security cameras at schools’ doors.

COMMUNITY......... 16 Gilbert boy wins conservation art contest.

SPORTS................. 24 High school roundball tourney returns in high fashion. COMMUNITY....................................... 16 BUSINESS.............................................20 SPORTS..................................................24 GETOUT................................................. 25 CLASSIFIEDS.......................................29

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

Sunday, June 26, 2022

Lawsuit keeps Gilbert taxpayers’ cost rising BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

he five-deck Hearne Plaza Garage in the Heritage District opened in March 2019 but Gilbert’s legal fight over property the Town seized for the project is still ongoing, costing taxpayers nearly $300,000 and climbing. And there are at least two other eminent domain fights the Town may be confronting at taxpayers’ expense. Although the courts sided with the Town

in taking the 755-square-foot triangular piece of land from downtown businessman Marc Barlow, the legal impasse involves the property’s value. Gilbert used the land to build a roundabout at the garage entrance to accommodate emergency vehicles. The Town appraised the land and offered $145,000. Barlow countered with $670,000 – what the parcel was appraised for a few months later. A judge in October 2020 ruled in favor of Barlow’s request to use his appraisal figure, rejecting the Town’s argument that the Aug.

18, 2018, date for the summons used by its appraiser should take precedence over the Dec. 19, 2018, date for the Order of Immediate Possession. The Town challenged the ruling and after the two sides failed at mediation in April, a trial date was scheduled for August 2023. “Clearly, the Town decided it would rather continue to pay attorneys’ fees and appraisal fees to pursue the case rather than settle with the Barlow family,” said Barlow’s attorney

see BARLOW page 12

Gilbert man makes car-cooked meals BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

oe Brown mixed water, eggs and oil into a Betty Crocker box cake mix. The Gilbert man then poured the chocolate-flavored batter into a cake pan. But instead of an oven at 350 degrees for half an hour, it went into his Honda Accord, where it baked at about 210 degrees for two hours. “This cake was a 10 out of 10, would definitely recommend,” Brown announced after taking a bite and giving two enthusiastic thumbs up on his TikTok video. Welcome to cooking in the Arizona heat, where Brown has amassed 2.2 million followers eager to see what concoctions the Gilbert native cooks up on his car dashboard. From cracking an egg on the sidewalk back in 2020, the

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Among the various dishes Joe Brown of Gilbert has cooked in his Honda are hamburgers. He showed in a video how he placed burgers on the dashboard when the interior temperature registered 186 degrees. They were cooked in two hours, coming out well done which is how he likes them and the buns were extra crispy. He rated them a 10 on a 10-point scale. (TikTok)

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NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

Gilbert enacts first stage of water management plan

GSN NEWS STAFF

ilbert is the latest Valley municipality to activate the first stage of saving water during a worsening drought, namely through educating businesses and residents on how to voluntarily conserve. The Town, which also will increase its efforts to reduce municipal water usage, signaled in May its intent to implement the plan, which was activated June 20. “Stage one of our plan focuses largely on education and so the council and the public will be seeing more messaging regarding that plan,” said Lauren Hixson, water resources manager at the May 24 council study session. “We already have a very robust conservation program. “We provide water audits for our residents as well as commercial businesses and so we really want to educate the public on how to use water as efficiently as possible.” The town’s announcement of the first stage of its Water Supply Reduction Management Plan came a week after the federal official told Congress that Lake Mead’s level was falling more quickly than expected and warned seven states and tribal nations – including Arizona – that the Biden administration is prepared to impose water-use restrictions in 60 days if they don’t. Big cities that rely on Colorado River water – particularly those in southern Nevada that have virtually no other source – were stunned by the testimony June 14 by Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Camille Calimlim Touton. She told the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Committee that shortages and demand on the Colorado River Basin will require reductions of 2 million to 4 million acre-feet in 2023 to preserve “critical levels” at Lake Mead and Lake Powell. About 36% of Arizona’s water – and about a third of Gilbert’s water – comes from the Colorado River. Lake Mead and Lake Powell store water that goes to population centers.

Touton’s agency reported that as of June 16, Lake Mead water levels had dropped 6 feet in a month. “We are 150 feet from 25 million Americans losing access to the Colorado River and the rate of decline is accelerating,” John Entsminger, general manager of the Southern Nevada Water Authority, told the Senate committee. Climate change and hotter average temperatures throughout most of the nation are confronting the Bureau of Reclamation with concerns over many cities’ water supplies but those that depend on the Colorado River face the greatest danger, Touton indicated. Touton said that for Western states and tribal nations, “significant and additional conservation actions are required to protect the Colorado River system infrastructure and the long-term stability of the system.” In an effort to force households to cut water usage by 30%, some California cities over the past month imposed tough lawn-watering restrictions backed enforcement crews that can levy fines. But no such measures are on the horizon in Gilbert, which stressed in its announcement last week that enacting the first sage of its water management plan, no water use restrictions are involved. Hixson said a majority of the messaging will focus on outdoor water use, which is wasted because plants are over-watered. The Town also provides magnets showing how to find and fix water leaks with links to videos so people can do their own water audits in their homes, she added. “That’s one major way to start helping to find those leaks within their existing systems,” Hixson said. She said the Town also is working with homeowners associations with a program that gives them a budget for the landscape they’re managing. “They can track it and view their water use month by month to see if they’re staying on budget,” Hixson said. Additionally, staff is working with the

see WATER page 6

ADVERTISEMENT One man’s opinion Edition #25

GILBERT BEHIND the Scenes First a big thank you to Mayor Brigette Peterson for all of the time and effort she has put into her job. In spite of the great job she is doing she has a blind spot when it comes to the huge apartment housing problem we have! She appears to be in the pocket of developers! Remember, she took $ 6,000 from a local developer! With this in mind it is very important that we fill the council vacancies with people who do not owe the developers and will do right for our great town. THEY ARE: Bill Spence Chuck Bongiovanni Yung Koprowski

Scott September

Michael Clark all are well qualified to be council members Others running are Jim Torgeson who sued the town over and over about the bond issue which cost the town tens of thousands in attorney fees & some say millions in interest on the bonds which equates to quality of life in Gilbert. Bobby Buchli who also was against the bond issue. Mario Chicas and Bus Obayomi who will be also rans.

George Dottl, Taxpayer

NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

Bids pitch pickleball, batting caged for Regional Park 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.

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BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

wo companies have each pitched a recreational amenity for a 5-acre site adjacent to Gilbert Regional Park with one proposing batting cages and the other pickleball courts. Chicken N Pickle and Rip City Batting Cages were the only two respondents to a town request for proposals for a project that would benefit residents and/or encourage tourism at the southwest corner of Queen Creek and Higley roads. Town officials denied Gilbert Sun News’ public record request for copies of the two proposals, saying they were “still under evaluation.” The proposals “will be reviewed with the Town Council in executive session on June 28,” said Eva Kirschbaum, parks and recreation spokeswoman. “The Town may enter into negotiations with a potential partner. If the Town chooses not to enter into negotiations with a potential partner, the parcel would remain vacant and other options could be considered for future uses.” Chicken N Pickle declined to discuss its proposal and Rip City Batting Cages did not return a call for comment. “Chicken N Pickle is actively exploring a number of location opportunities around the country. However, we cannot comment on those locations until they are fully agreed to by all parties,” said company spokeswoman Rachel Santschi in an email. The Missouri company in February announced its ninth location and the first in Arizona at the Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale later this year. The $15-million, 68,000-square-foot project will include bars, pavilions, multiple dining areas on the main floor, rooftop dining, indoor and outdoor pickleball courts and a variety of lawn games, according to Glendale officials. Company officials estimated that the new location will generate over 700,000 visitors annually and create over 150 jobs. Rip City Batting Cages operates an outdoor batting facility, which offers yearround softball and baseball training and

Chicken N Pickle released this rendering of its planned Glendale location but it is not saying what it would like to do on town-owned land in Gilbert Regional Park. (Special to GSN)

Rip City Batting Cages operates these cages at Freestone Park in Gilbert and now wants to develop a similar amenity in the Regional Par. (David Minton/GSN Staff Photographer) nine outdoor cages set up for various speeds, located inside Freestone Park, south of the park’s basketball courts. The Town closed its bidding process on May 31. Gilbert previously asked for proposals in late 2020 for the 5- and 10-acre sites but got no interest. The former owner of the 25-acre water park project did respond to the Town’s request for qualifications for the 10 acre site but didn’t follow through later that year. The Town envisioned a hotel or resort with retail for the 10 acres. The bidders’ submittals included a description of the project, company financial statements and a project timeline. The Parks and Recreation Board met behind closed doors June 7 to discuss the

potential lease. If Council in closed-door discussions this week gives the green light with one of the Regional Park bidders, staff will then begin negotiations on a contract. The agreement, expected to be finalized no later than this fall, would then have to be voted on by Council in a public meeting. Gilbert intends to enter into a ground lease for up to 30 years with the developer or lessee building the recreational amenity and funding the ongoing operation costs. The lessee also is expected to make lease payments or a combination of lease payments and percentage of gross sales

see BID page 6

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

BID from page 4

to the Town. At the end of the lease, which would include two 10-year options, the ownership of the project would transfer to Gilbert at no cost or the site has to be returned to the original condition. The site is one of three parcels totaling 47 acres adjacent to the 272-acre regional park set aside for the development of recreational amenities through public-private partnerships.

WATER from page 3

Parks and Recreation Department, which already has smart controllers, to stay on budget by looking at reducing overseeding, she added. “We’re also looking at removal of non-functional turf so small strips of grass that are not used for recreational purposes and are difficult to water,” she said. And, staff is working with Public Works on advanced-metering infrastructure conversions, which can track leaks regularly and quickly, according to Hixson. The public also has access to a water-budget calculator on the Town’s website, where residents can plug in information such as the number of people in the home, if there is a pool, appliances owned and landscaping details to show what the water use should be. Councilman Scott Anderson, who sits on the Arizona Municipal Water Users Association’s board of directors, noted at the study session the importance for everyone in the region to work together

The Town in 2019 inked a deal with a developer on the largest parcel to build a 25-acre, state-of-the-art water park, featuring a number of amenities such as a surf lagoon, a sand beach and outdoor cabanas areas. The opening was scheduled for August 2020. The project, however, hit a financial hurdle and the ownership changed hands resulting in the Town signing a revised deal with the new owner in 2021.

The project, renamed Cactus Surf Park, was given a June 30, 2022 deadline to begin construction with an anticipated opening date of April 2024, according to the new agreement and according to information posted on the Town’s website. However, construction hasn’t taken place, according to Planning Manager Eva Cutro, who called the timeline outdated. “They will probably have their neighborhood meeting in August and then

start the pre-application process,” Cutro said in an email. Given the concerns with the worsening drought, the Town on its website made it clear that it has taken extra steps to ensure water for the project is being used wisely. No town water will be used for the water park, and the operator must bring its own supply via water credits delivered through the town’s drinking water system. don’t need to panic. Each of the communities in the region has a plan, including Gilbert and we have a way to address this. Actually 30% of our portfolio is Colorado River. There’s another 70% that is in pretty good shape and so our portfolio is still pretty strong.” Valley cities that have activated their plans include Scottsdale, Mesa and Phoenix. Phoenix, the fifth largest city in the country, earlier this month touted it was in a much safer position than its neighbors for the next few years due to water-conservation measures taken so far and a robust and diverse water portfolio.

Lake Mead’s level is plummeting faster than scientists had expected, prompting new alarm in some Western cities – but not Gilbert – over its future. (GSN file photo) to save water. “It’s a regional problem not just our problem,” he said, adding that people don’t need to be alarmed.

“The message is still that there’s a shortage on the river but there’s not a shortage of the tap,” Anderson said. “We

LEARN MORE

Learn more at gilbertaz.gov/WaterWise. Visit gilbertaz.gov/WaterShortage for more tips, resources, and up-to-date information on the Colorado River shortage.

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

GPS OKs bus drivers bonus in new budget BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

ilbert Public Schools will again offer a $2-an-hour driving bonus for hard-to-find bus drivers, taking effect on the first day of school July 26. The Governing Board on June 21 unanimously approved the proposal, which also included a $1-an-hour incentive for van drivers and bus monitors. Board member Sheila Uggetti attended via phone. The bonuses, paid only for hours driving or supporting students, will be handed out in December and again in June 2023. “We are still having a difficult time hiring bus drivers especially those with” a commercial driver’s license, Superintendent Shane McCord said. “We are currently down probably 35 to 40 drivers as of today. We think this incentive will help continue to hire individuals.

It does seem to happen where we hire some and then we lose some.” McCord noted the bonuses are a continuation of what the board approved last year for the current fiscal year when the district was facing a shortage of 43 bus drivers for the new school year. “I hope it works,” board member Jill Humpherys said. “I hope we can find those drivers and make it a little easier on our transportation staff.” The district’s transportation staffing currently includes 96 bus drivers, 58 bus monitors and 12 van drivers, according to spokeswoman Dawn Antestenis. “The GPS transportation department is currently projecting being short around 40 drivers for the start of next year,” she said in an email. “The team is continually working on route efficiencies to address this and members of the leadership team (supervisors, routers, directors, etc.) are always on standby to drive when needed.”

The estimated $500,000 cost for the bonuses is included in the $280-million budget the governing board approved last week for the fiscal year that begins July 1. The budget includes pay raises for all district employees and assumes a loss of 400 students – the state fund school districts based on student head count. The budget adoption came despite a stalemate at the Legislature over a 2022-23 state spending plan that was resolved the day after the board meeting. Republican and Democratic legislative leaders reached a bipartisan agreement on a new spending plan, rejecting efforts by some Republicans – including those representing most of Gilbert – to scuttle the plan. The approval came after frustrated Republican leaders cut a deal with Democrats to secure budget passage before the June 30 deadline. The result is that the final budget will

immediately add $526 million to base education funding for K-12 schools, an 8.8% increase. That’s $60 million more than the original package. The deal also scraps expansion of the ability of individuals to get dollar-for-dollar tax credits for donations to help students attend private and parochial schools. Those credits reduce the amount of funding available for all other state programs, including public education. One piece of the final package, set for a vote later Thursday, includes creation of a system to provide state funds to parents who can use these vouchers to send their children to private and parochial schools. Those vouchers essentially redirect the state aid for that student that would have gone to the public school. No one from the public spoke on GPS’ budget, which will now have to be re-

see BUDGET page 9

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NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

GPS grade schools getting security cameras BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

eople wanting to come onto Gilbert Public Schools elementary and junior high buildings will soon need to clear a new security check first via a video intercom system. The Governing Board voted 5-4 last week to use $315,840 in bond money to purchase the system, which allows users to talk, hear and view visitors before granting access onto the campus. The action come on the heels of the elementary school shooting May 24 in Uvalde, Texas, that left 19 students and two teachers dead. “As the tragedy that has happened not just in Texas but in other parts of our country over the years, security of course has become more and more important,” Superintendent Shane McCord explained at the June 21 meeting. “The video intercom system is a buzzer system and it’s something we would

A video camera will transmit to an onsite employee the image of anyone trying to get access to a GPS elementary or junior high school next school year. (GPS) like to install in all of our elementaries and junior highs and GCA (Gilbert Classical Academy). Our high schools have been done at this point in time.” The plan is to have the system installed at the 34 campuses by start of school on July 26. GPS awarded the contract to Benson

Systems, the same company installing a district-wide security camera system. “This is a big step because I think in Gilbert Public Schools for years our main goal is to be as open and welcoming as possible,” McCord said. “What I don’t want this message to be is that we don’t want you in our school.

“I think the message needs to be is we want you in our schools and we want everybody to be as safe and secured as possible within those schools and I think this will help accomplish that.” McCord said the district will alert parents to the new system before the school starts up again. “There are some tradeoffs for safety and we all know that,” he said. “I think as a school district and you will see in letters that go home when things occur one of the lines in there is ‘your child’s safety is our utmost importance’ and this is one of those ways that we continue to reinforce that.” McCord said the district also plans to add more security guards at the elementary, junior and high school campuses. They will be unarmed, unlike school resource officers who are Gilbert cops stationed at the junior and high school campuses.

see SECURITY page 14

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NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

BUDGET from page 7

tooled, likely next month, now that a state budget has been adopted and districts will know how much state funding they can expect in the coming fiscal year. “I appreciate that we are conservative in trying to plan a budget especially when we don’t know exactly what funding we’re going to have yet or how many students we’ll have,” board President Lori Wood said. “We’ve seen all kinds of ups and downs last couple of years where we’ve been in the middle of the year couple of times last two years wondering if we would have enough to even keep going with what we had.” Bonnie Betz, assistant superintendent for business services, said the budget could see more money coming from the state should the Legislature pass HB 2866, which increases funding for K-12 education. “We are estimating that the increase could be as much as $12 million for Gilbert Public Schools,” Betz said. Wood noted the possibility of more

state funding and GPS’ $28.9 million budget balance carry-forward in the new fiscal year and asked how that could be spent. “How can we make the most of the dollars that we have and make sure that we’re using them for our students and teachers?” Wood said. McCord said staff would review spending once the district had a number to work with. “If there is a number to go over and we just put down our list of priorities, as always when it comes to staff salaries is always something to be able to be competitive with,” he said. “And if we were able to boost our starting pay above $50,000 or at $50,000, that’s something to look at. “We have certain employee groups that we have to take a stronger look at to make sure that their salaries are where they need to be – competitive and then for our students again it is looking at what types of support they need, whether it’s academic support, whether it’s social-emotional support, whether

it’s class size, those types of things.” McCord said administration also would take any input from the board, as well. Board member Dr. Charles Santa Cruz said he was intrigued by the budget balance carry forward and the fact that the district was still paying bills in the current budget through August. “Do you see that time frame, between now and then, having a significant impact on that budget balance carry forward?” Santa Cruz asked. Betz said it may result in somewhere between $1 million to $3 million more in the budget balance carry forward. “It’s really hard to say,” she said. “The thing that we’re struggling with right now (is) we’ve been having a hard time spending our money because of the supply chain issues and so we’re going to have a lot of purchase orders that are open today that are going to have to roll over into next year.” For example, she added, the district ordered six activity buses in October 2021 and they are anticipated to arrive

at the earliest in January 2023. Santa Cruz said the ongoing problem with getting supplies for various projects may cause GPS to delay spending and it may look like the district has more money that it actually has. But “it’s already encumbered but perhaps not reflected in the documents,” he said. Humpherys asked how inflation was going to affect the district’s projects. Betz said staff met the day before with its consultant to go over the capital projects. “He indicated that they were looking at construction cost increases of over 30%, so largely that will impact our bond,” Betz said. “But we are not seeing 30% increases across the board in the restricted capital but for bond projects. “We’ve seen definitely increases. We have not quantified it though but that’s something that we’ll take a look at in the current year.” Higley Unified School District also adopted a budget June 22 for the Fiscal Year 2021, totaling $117 million.

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NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

Ex-teacher’s arrest prompts Higley probe BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

igley Unified School District has hired an outside investigator to look into allegations that officials were made aware of a former teacher recently accused of inappropriate behavior with two underage students but did nothing. Gilbert Police arrested Aaron Dunton, 35, on June 16. The former Higley High School social studies teacher has a preliminary hearing on June 27 and apparently posted the $10,000 bail as his inmate record could not be found. “Since the District’s original report to police, some social media posts and other reports have asserted that details about this former employee were allegedly previously shared with HUSD employees,” board President Amy Kaylor announced in a prepared statement at the June 22 meeting. “We are very concerned about the ac-

Aaron Dunton cusations regarding this former employee and that they were not addressed when raised. “The District has hired an outside attorney to investigate and help our administration review all of these matters. It is

the District’s intent to learn the details of any prior reported concern and how it was handled.” Kaylor asked that people who have reported a concern they felt was not addressed by HUSD employees, to call the district’s safe hotline at 480-279-7233 or email safe.hotline@husd.org. “We take all concerns very seriously and will follow-up on situations that are reported,” she read. “Our district will continue to review our protocols, practices and policies to ensure students are safe on our campuses.” The full transcript is on the district’s website. Gilbert Police launched a two-month investigation after it was contacted by the district on April 13. Dunton submitted a request to be released from his teaching contract on April 14. While investigating Dunton’s inappropriate relationship with the 14-year-old student, police said they found another victim, who made allegations against

GET YOUR GLOW ON!

Dunton for incidents that occurred in 2019 at Power Ranch Elementary when the victim was 11 years old. Dunton taught at Power Ranch from July 16, 2015 to May 28, 2021 and was the victim’s teacher. He transferred to Higley High in July 2021, where he also volunteered as a softball coach and an assistant football coach, according to the district. Dunton’s arrest became a hot topic of interest on social media. According to one person, Dunton’s behavior wasn’t a secret, writing, “I was friends with the 11-year-old in elementary school… my entire grade knew they were dating.” Another person wrote that “in 2019 a student told the principal that he witnessed Dunton committing sexual assault against a 6th grade girl and the principal suspended the kid that saw Dunton.” People claimed that both parents and

see DUNTON page 11

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NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

DUNTON

from page 10

teachers reported Dunton to administration, which turned a blind eye. “Only teacher I ever had to report several times over the years,” a woman said. “My kiddos were at the school.” Another woman said, “plenty of other teachers had reported him since 2015. I know of a teacher that reported him and she herself got written up for ‘stirring the pot.’” The school was notified and did nothing, a woman claimed while another said,

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

Arizona mourns QC Mayor Gail Barney BY PAUL MARYNIAK GSN Executive Editor

ueen Creek Mayor Gail Barney, whose public service had an impact far beyond the town that was his home since he was 6 months old, died June 23 after a months-long battle with a lung infection. He was 74. Tributes from across the state, including the Governor’s Office, not only noted that impact but also recalled his humility and friendly demeanor that endeared him to everyday residents and public officials alike. “He was totally void of ego,” Mesa Mayor John Giles said, recalling how Mayor Barney made Queen Creek “an important part of the East Valley but on a on a personal level, he was very humble. And so that made him just remarkably easy to work with.” Gov. Doug Ducey ordered all state flags to fly at half-mast last Friday and hailed

BARLOW from page 1

Dale Zeitlin. Town officials did not comment by Gilbert Sun News’ deadline. Although the Town denied Gilbert Sun News’ public records request last year for the legal bills, it agreed to release them recently after a second records request was submitted. At the time of the denial, the Town Attorney claimed that disclosing the cost “would be detrimental to the Town’s best interests.” According to those records, Gilbert hired the Ayers & Brown law firm to represent the Town from July 2018 to December 2020 at a cost of $192,450 in attorney fees and $9,776 in other costs. The Town also has paid $76,238 in attorney fees and $1,161 in other costs to Dickinson Wright, which has since taken over the eminent-domain case. Additionally, the Town paid $16,700 in appraisal fees. While that court battle continues to rack up legal bills, it looks like the Town could have another fight on its hand over another land taking. Gilbert’s plan to widen Ocotillo Road

The town provided this official photo of Mayor Gail Barney. (Town of Queen Creek) Mayor Barney’s contributions. Stating “he cared greatly about his community and all those who called it home,” Ducey said:

“Under Mayor Barney, the Town of Queen Creek has become one of the fastest growing municipalities in the nation, attracting industry giants and many new residents. His vision and leadership helped make that growth possible.” “He was committed to fostering economic growth and creating opportunities for Queen Creek’s growing population. His legacy as a humble public servant who cared for his community will live on.” Roc Arnett, the former longtime elader of the PHX East Valley Partnership who worked with Mayor Barney for 20 years in both the Partnership and Maricopa Association of Governments, fondly recalled Mayor Barney’s humility. “Many times, he would attend those meetings in his Levi’s with a little mud yet on his boots having come from his field irrigating. Reflecting on Mayor Barney’s loss reminds me of the entire Barney Family who have contributed to the growth, development, and stature of our

great East Valley,” Arnett said.. Former Gilbert Mayor John Lewis, now the Partnership president/CEO said “He spent his whole life in the town that he loved and as mayor, it showed. His heart was in the community – always thinking and asking, ‘what is in the best interest of our citizens now and in the future?’” Lewis recalled walking around the then newly-opened Horseshoe Park. “He laughed at me and said, ‘You’re not a real cowboy, but you look like you could be!’ In other words, with his positive attitude, he was telling me that I had potential. He looked for the good in others and could always see their potential. “I laughed when Mayor Gail told me that one night he needed to rush the end of a council meeting. He said, ‘I did not want to end the meeting until all of our town business was addressed, but I needed to get home to turn on and watch the

see MAYOR page 14

from two to five lanes between Val Vista Drive and Greenfield Road has homeowners up in arms. The project will require purchasing land from 46 properties – nine in Gilbert’s juris- An eminent domain fight involving the expansion of Ocotillo Road appears likely to end up in court – and generate diction and 37 in more taxpayers’ legal bills. (Town of Gilbert) Maricopa County. If a property owner refuses to sell, She said that in talking with utility The Town maintains it needs 130 feet of right-of-way – 65 feet on each side eminent domain proceedings will then companies, she found the Town’ figures from the center – for two travel lanes in take place. The Town set aside $2.9 mil- to be inflated. “That meeting cemented my resolve each direction, a center turn lane, side- lion for land acquisition. After attending a June 15 Town open to not roll over and die,” she said on a walks, bike lanes and a multipurpose house on the project, county island res- social media post. “I was willing to comtrail. Residents favored keeping the road ident Terri Naddy came away with a promise. I was willing to sell 2 feet of my as is or widening it to three lanes. And strengthened determination to fight for property to match Maricopa County’s one resident at a recent council meeting her land. She disputed the town’s claim easement requirements, but no longer.” said the Town has increased the ease- that the amount of land needed was ment from the original 55 feet to 65 feet. driven by underground utilities. see BARLOW page 13

NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

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The municipal parking garage sparked the lawsuit that downtown Gilbert businessman Marc Barlow filed in 2019 against the town when officials took a piece of his property for a roundabout. (Cecilia Chan/GSN Staff)

BARLOW from page 12

She said the Town will need to figure out how to do its road project without her property. “I say NO to your plan and your money,” she wrote. “I say no today, I say no tomorrow, and I say no for as long as I stand on this earth. You can offer me $1,000 per square foot and I will still say no. And you can take THAT to the bank.” Naddy has been spearheading the opposition to the town’s project and started a petition against it. By last week, it had garnered 523 signatures. “We are grateful for the opportunity to engage in additional one-on-one discussions with those who attended the Public Open House on June 15,” spokeswoman Jen Snyder said in an email. “We continue to receive feedback, and the project team is currently reviewing all of the information, comments and concerns. As we work through the design process, we will continue to communicate with property owners and those impacted by the project.” The Town calls the widening “a critical piece of infrastructure” needed to provide connection in the southern part of Gilbert.

The project is approaching 60% design, with anticipated completion late this year. Construction is expected to begin late this year or early 2023 and take eight to 10 months to complete. Also unresolved is on-going neighborhood opposition to land the Town wants near the Heritage District. Twenty-four homeowners along Hemlock and Commerce avenues and Honeysuckle Lane were notified by the Town in 2020 of its intention to acquire a portion of their backyards to access and fix a deteriorating sewer pipeline along the Western Canal. There’s a 25-foot-wide utility easement that runs along the homes’ backyards but over time it has become increasingly difficult to access the 36-year-old pipeline for routine inspections and maintenance as some of the residents have put up obstructions like storage units, according to the Town. After residents spoke up against the land grab, Council in May 2021 approved hiring Entellus for $225,302 to come up with other options besides eminent domain. Those options have not yet been presented publicly.

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SECURITY from page 8

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

The security officers will patrol and walk through campuses on a daily basis, be visible and “let people know that Gilbert Public Schools has security officers available if there is anything in need on those campuses,” McCord said. He added that the district’s executive director of secondary schools and high school principals have been walking each campus to look at the security needs and if things need to be done differently or if there is enough personnel to ensure safety. “The most important part about all of this is in my opinion is the people that are involved with this,” McCord said.

“It’s very important that our staff and our students as well as our community members that are on our campuses we want to go by, ‘if you see something, say something.’ “We want to make sure that we identify people on our campuses and do they have the appropriate badge, are they cleared to be in there? It’s going to take everybody’s eyes on all of campuses to make sure we are aware and we are all working toward the same goal and that is to be safe while we are there.” He said that as school tragedies happen, it brings to the forefront things that need to occur.

“I think as a society we get very comfortable in our day to day and we have to be a little bit more uncomfortable about this in terms of making sure that we are alert and we are aware and we are able to say something or intervene when need be,” said McCord, adding that the human element was just as valuable as any security equipment the district may buy. Board member Jill Humpherys noted that addressing mental health on campus also helps with security. “I’ve been looking at some websites of people who studied gun violence,” Humpherys said. “One of the big parts is

for crisis intervention. “I know that we really work hard to make sure that our schools are inclusive that we work on anti-bullying and that we work hard to have that crisis intervention in place because that is a major component. “A lot of school shooters are in the schools so even when we hardened our schools we have to make sure we have that culture and I feel like we do an excellent job in that and will continue to do that but it is definitely something that we want to emphasize along with making some of these changes just to be more secured,” Humpherys said.”

irrigation water.” Maricopa County Supervisor Jack Sellers said, “The passing of Mayor Barney is truly a blow to those of us who knew him as a friend and a great leader. ... I was always impressed with the sincerity in which he served our community. I’ve lost a friend and this community has lost a

true public servant.” Queen Creek Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Perry Berry said, “Mayor Barney was a good friend of mine and I am very sorry about his passing. We both shared a love for the outdoors and hunting. We would often share pictures, stories, and I loved hearing about his hunt-

ing trips. He was a good man, and will be greatly missed.” The district Governing Board issued a statement praising his support and noting, “We see the impact of this wonderful founding family in the town’s culture, traditions, and in our public institutions.” Mayor Barney became a Queen Creek

resident as a toddler in 1948 and worked on his family’s farm – which ultimately propelled him to the road of service. “Mayor Barney often shared he was having trouble crossing Germann Road on his tractor, so he got involved and never looked back,” the town statement said. He started his public life on the Queen Creek Planning & Zoning Commission in 1998 and served there until 2002, when he was appointed to the Town Council. In that time, Mayor Barney was instrumental in helping the town achieve many of the milestones in its development, including the opening Ellsworth Loop, starting a fire department, and building municipal water services. “Mayor Barney embodied what it meant to be QC neighborly – while his years of leadership and dedication will leave a legacy in the Queen Creek community – he will be sincerely missed,” the town statement said. In 2010, he was elected mayor and continued to help the town make strategic advancements, helping to make Queen Creek the first municipality in Arizona to have a fully funded pension system and launching the town’s police department. In 2014, Mayor Barney was highlighted in a League of Arizona Cities and Towns newsletter and said one of his proudest achievements was helping to guide the town through the Great Recession despite reduced staff and limited resources. He said the town’s biggest challenge at

MAYOR from page 12

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NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

COOK from page 1

Highland High School graduate is now grilling, frying and baking in his car. “I get a kick out of it,” Brown explained. “It’s so crazy what I’m doing.” Brown first began his cooking in the car videos in April with a batch of chocolate chip cookies that took an hour and a half to bake at about 180 degrees. The hottest it’s gotten inside his car so far this year was 225 degrees. “The chocolate chip cookies were the best,” he said of the dishes he’s tried so far – which have included pizza, brownies, cupcakes, a New York strip steak, hot dogs and chicken nuggets. “I’ve cooked breakfast in there, eggs, bacon and waffle,” he said. “I would say most of it tasted pretty similar” to the conventional cooking method. The item that took the longest to bake was a pumpkin pie at four hours. Brown is sort of a pro now when it comes to harnessing the sun’s rays to cook food. In 2020, he cooked food on the roof of his family’s home and last summer, on the roof of his car. Brown said his first video went viral in May 2020, when he cooked a tray of chocolate chip pancakes on the roof because he was too lazy to use the stove. The pancakes baked for three hours in 97-degree temperatures and looked “absolutely disgusting,” Brown says on

(Photos Courtesy Joe Brown)

Joe Brown eats the cake that he baked in his car.

the video. “I really don’t want to try these because I know I’m going to get sick,” he says. “My stomach is going to hate me after this. This looks awful.” After commenting on the bad smell, he takes a bite and gags, spitting the pancake back onto a plate. Since then, Brown has made pancakes in his car that were edible, although he acknowledged it was the worst food to cook. “They have to be flipped and they turn out like potato chips,” he said.

Of the three methods, definitely the car is the best for cooking because the insulated heat makes it so much hotter, Brown said. “In terms of food, I just won’t do fish,” he said. “It’s the only thing I don’t like.” Every day, Brown cooks and posts two videos, one showing him prepping the food item and putting it in the car and the second showing him eating and rating the taste. Brown relies on his followers for fresh ideas on what to pop into his car, which includes non-food items such as crayons,

that time was ensuring enough resources for its infrastructure. “We are building a community from scratch, and still have two-thirds of our infrastructure needed to serve our buildout population of about 95,000,” he said. Mayor Barney also served on the Maricopa Association of Governments in various capacities since 2006, including his appointment to the Regional Council in 2010 and served as chairman of the Regional Council in 2018 for one year. His influence also impacted the East Valley in other ways, notably in the development of Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport. East Valley Partnership Vice President Mike Hutchinson recalled: “He was active with Phoenix Mesa

Gateway Airport for a long time. He was just a really good guy in terms of rolling up this sleeves and working on issues and participating. “Being a guy who showed up, if there was a meeting, there was an event, there was somebody we had a talk about lobbying, Gail was always game to be in the mix. …He didn’t care if you were the intern or another mayor: he just treated everybody well.” Though his illness had sidelined him from Town Council meetings since April, Mayor Barney remained active apparently right up until the day he died. Giles said he was shocked to hear of his passing because Mayor Barney had joined by phone the June 21 meeting of the Gateway airport authority board and

had been on the phone with him and other mayors for a MAG conference call on June 22. Under the Town Code, Vice Mayor Jeff Brown will continue to perform the duties as mayor. Mayor Barney is survived by his wife Pam, three children, 16 grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Details about remembrances and services have not been made available yet. Lewis eulogized him in an interview, stating, “Mayor Gail was and is a farmer who knew how to raise crops, a family, and a community. It is always hard to say goodbye to friends, but I am grateful to have known this dedicated, humble, and servant leader, I call my friend, Gail Barney.”

MAYOR from page 14

Joe Brown takes a temperature reading as a cake bakes in his Honda Accord.

candles and a 10-pound gummy worm. “Surprisingly, I’m still not a cook,” he said. “To this day. I don’t make much except for mac and cheese out of a box.” Although Brown earned an associate degree from Arizona State University, he has no plans to continue his schooling for now. Instead, he’s focusing on a career as a social influencer. He’s earning some revenue from his TikTok videos but it’s going back into buying ingredients, he said. He plans to build up his other social media accounts – Instagram, which has 20,000 followers, and YouTube, which has 600 followers. Brown said he’ll continue videotaping until September and take a hiatus until next summer. “Next summer I want to switch it up a bit and keep it fresh,” he said. “I have no idea what at this time.” Until then, he has advice for his followers: “stay cool and stay hydrated and just realize that the sun is really hot and it’s hot in Arizona.”

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

For more community news visit gilbertsunnews.com GilbertSunNews.com

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Gilbert boy wins endangered species art contest BY ALEX GALLAGHER GSN Staff Writer

undreds of kids around the Valley were up for OdySea Aquarium’s second annual Conservation Crafts Art Challenge as they rummage around their homes grabbing recyclables to relics of an endangered creature. Although over 400 pieces of art were submitted, only five were selected for top honors – and got the experience of a lifetime. Among them was Evan Navarro, 7, of Gilbert, who was also startled to see the species he chose – a bluefin tuna fish – was among the animals that make up the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. He admits he had never realized how

Evan Navarro, 7, of Gilbert dubbed his piece “One Fish, Two Fish, Let’s Save Bluefin Tuna Fish.” (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

over-fished this species had become. Hoping to open more eyes to their pending doom, Evan titled his entry “One Fish, Two Fish, Lets Save Bluefin Tuna Fish,” creating in under an hour and a half out of a magazine, a tissue box and a Chipotle bowl. Evan, the other winners and their families were invited into OdySea Aquarium’s private party room that offers a unique view of its largest tank, but the kids also received one-of-akind paintings by either the penguins or sloths that called the Scottsdale aquarium home. They also got the opportunity to interact with one of the aquariums South African penguins.

see CONSERVE page 19

Gilbert Leadership graduates 30th class GSN NEWS STAFF

ilbert Leadership celebrated the graduation of its Class 30 recently at a formal ceremony recognizing the 29 participants of this year’s cohort. Sponsored by the Gilbert Chamber Foundation, it aims to raise up local leadership by promoting and inspiring action on issues that impact the Town of Gilbert. The program influences the community by building leadership capacity, increasing knowledge and awareness of community concerns, and nurturing future leaders. “Prior to Gilbert Leadership, I never was a part of the communities I lived in and didn’t understand how much I took for granted,” said Joseph Barrientes, sales manager at Senergy Petroleum and graduate of Gilbert Leadership Class 30.

see LEADERSHIP page 19

The 29 members of the 30th Gilbert Leadership Class completed their year of learning about the community recently. (Gilbert Leadership)

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

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COMMUNITY

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

Southeast Regional Library offers free programs GSN NEWS STAFF

outheast Regional Library offers free programs for people of all ages. For a complete list of offerings visit mcldaz.org/southeast. Southeast Regional Library, located at 775 N. Greenfield Road, Gilbert, is open to the public Monday-Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m. Here’s a look at next month’s offerings. Unless noted otherwise, registration required for some programs can be made at mcldaz.org/southeast or by calling 602-652-3000. Oceans of Possibilities (Through Aug. 1) Pre-readers, school age, teens, and adults can participate in our annual Summer Reading Program to read books, collect points, and earn prizes. Enter your points online on a weekly basis to be entered to win drawing prizes, too. Secret code: newsinjuly

A short walk to the Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory is part of the Southeast Regional Library’s July 25 program. (GSN file photo)

gilbert) Or call 1-877-25-Vital Kid’s Crafternoon Book Club 2:30-3:30 p.m. July 13 Kids 8-12 should come prepared to talk about a book they read recently and create art projects that represent the book. School Age, tweens. Historical Fiction Book Club 2-3 p.m. July 19 The book for July will be “As Bright as Heaven” by Susan Meissner. Adults. Kid’s Craft Club 4-4:30 July 21 Join Caroline at the library to create an aquatic craft. All ages. Thursday Night Film Club 6-8 p.m. July 21 General discussion may take place after film screenings, as time allows. Adults. Explore the Night Sky 7:30-8:30 p.m. July 25 Learn about the night sky, followed

Family Dance Day 3:30-5:30 July 8 Caroline will teach common dances. People should wear sneakers and workout clothing. All ages. Teen Crafter Hour, 6-7 p.m. July 12 Materials will be provided. Teens.

Gilbert Community Blood Drive 1:30-6:30 p.m. July 19 All healthy donors are urged to donate now; if you’ve had COVID-19 and have been symptom-free for 10 days, you are eligible to donate. Adults. Register at donors.Vitalant.org (Code:

one-time events at hdsouth.org. HD SOUTH is joining museums nationwide in the Blue Star Museum initiative, a providing free admission to current U.S. military personnel and their families through Labor Day. Blue Star Museums is a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families in collaboration with the Department of Defense and museums across America. Here’s a look at next month’s offerings. Unless noted otherwise, registration required for some programs can be made at mcldaz.org/southeast or by calling 602-652-3000.

been on display in one collection. This the class on relaxation techniques and exhibit includes the whimsical and utili- muscle conditioning. They are certitarian and is part of museum admission. fied yoga instructors with training in restorative & yin flow, yoga & weights, Yoga With Marilynn and chair yoga. The class incorporates 7-8 p.m. all Thursdays movement, breathing, and emotional Marilynn Igleski, certified yoga balance. Open to all levels. Bring your instructor, will help participants relax own mat. Ages 16 & up. Non-members, while conditioning muscles. Open to $5. participants of all levels of yoga experience. Bring your own yoga mat. Pastel Pigment Workshop Non-members, $5. 10:30 a.m.-noon July 16 Gilbert Visual Arts League member and STEM Saturday retired instructor Jean Smith conducts July 9, 2022 | 10:30am-12:00pm. an interactive pastel workshop. All ages Local college professors and teachers and skill level. Non-members, $3. will lead participants through science experiments that will allow kids to 20 Minute Meals with Kelly Church create their own snow fluff and play- 10:30 a.m.-noon July 30 dough. All supplies will be provided. Kelly Church conducts a cooking class Ages 6 & up. Non-members $5. where people will see one of these meals in action and leave with multiple options Yoga With Ginger And Rochelle for fast dinners that can be made from 6:30-7:30 p.m. July 11, 18 and 25 start to finish in 20 minutes or less. Instructors Ginger and Rochelle guide Non-members, $5.

see LIBRARY page 19

HD South announces programs for July

GSN NEWS STAFF

D SOUTH will offer a series of informative programs for people of all ages in July. Programs are led by artists, historians, storytellers, botanists and scientists; experts in their field who share their knowledge and skills with our community. Home of the Gilbert Historical Museum and located in the heart of the heritage district at Gilbert and Elliot roads,, the building opened as Gilbert Elementary School in 1913. It is the oldest building in Gilbert and is the only one on the National Register of Historical Places. Gilbert Museum is a repository of artifacts chronicling the town’s rich history, featuring newly remodeled exhibits and interactive displays. Many of the educational programs are free, while some come with a small charge to cover materials. Information: hdsouth.org/calendar. Unless otherwise noted, registration is required for the

Vintage Schoolhouse Collection Exhibit July 11-Aug. 22 On display from July 11-August 22, vintage trinkets, tools, and artifacts used in daily school life by both students and teachers, all from HD SOUTH’s private collection. These artifacts have never

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

LIBRARY from page 18

COMMUNITY

by a short walk to the observatory. All ages. Power Outages, Fires, Floods – Being Prepared 1:30-2:30 p.m. July 26 Learn simple strategies for getting

prepared for emergencies. Reduce your vulnerability, feel more confident about the future by learning from an expert how to prepare for the next emergency. Josh Friedman, emergency management coordinator for Gilbert brings a

wealth of experience, and will be able to answer your questions. Adults. Mystery Book Discussion 2-3 p.m. July 28 Visit mcldaz.org for this month’s title. Adults.

Summer Paint Night 7-8:15 p.m. July 28 This evening of painting with acrylics is self-directed. All supplies will be provided. Adults, teens.

“Now, I feel proud to be a part of my community because I know how much work goes into making this one of the best places in the country.” The following individuals were recognized as graduates of Gilbert Leadership Class 30: Jeff Armstrong, Higley Unified School District Sandra Ballester, Schooley Mitchell-Why Not Optimize Eric Barkyoumb, Dignity Health Brendan Barrett, Skynetwest, LLC Joe Barrientes, Senergy Petroleum Mark Bergerson, The Arizona Group Jen Dille, Devscale Software Danielle Dodge, Town of Gilbert James Dragonette, Gilbert Christian Schools Kerri Gideon, Katy Companies (Katy

Building & Design) Jason Gillette, Guild Health Group Tameka Hartman, Town of Gilbert Faith Heinrich, Banner|Aetna Pam Johnson, Pam Johnson Ins Acy Inc Dba State Farm Insurance Mindy Jones, Amy Jones Group Teresa Joseph, Higley Unified School District Reginald Mason, Hill International Chris Melson, FirstBank Jessica Nelson, Salt River Project Barbara Newman, Gilbert Public Schools Ashley O’Brion, Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College Lisa Potter, Gilbert Chamber of Commerce Sanketh Sangam, Wells Fargo Nikki Schaal, Farm Bureau Financial

Services Emily Staples, FASTSIGNS of Gilbert Tim Troy, Enjoyment Realty Jane Vela, Landings Credit Union Tanya Wright, Town of Gilbert Benjamin Zibers, Park University Gilbert Class members attended full-day sessions once each month for nine months; completed a series of local tours; and worked together to select, organize, and execute a community service project. For that project, the class partnered with Gilbert Sister Cities on the fundraising and installation of the Friendship Garden located at Gilbert Regional Park. Gilbert Leadership is currently accepting applications to participate in the program’s 31st class and will begin interviewing applicants in August. Gil-

bert-area residents and/or employees are eligible to apply. Applications are due July 5. “Gilbert Leadership is more than a program but a new way to look at being a leader and committing to be intentionally engaged in your community,” said Jenna Kahl, associate vice president of institutional advancement at Chandler/Gilbert Community College, a graduate of Gilbert Leadership Class 27, and a member of the Gilbert Leadership steering committee. “I am so grateful for the opportunities that this program and people have provided me, but I don’t take for granted that it takes ongoing work on my part as a leader to remain involved and encourage others to do the same.” Program information and application are at gilbertleadership.com.

After the exciting interaction, the kids were again invited to take a tour around OdySea Aquarium and reflect on the hard work they put into their impressive works of art. Connor Macleod, 5, of Scottsdale spent over two days building an orange sunflower sea star that was almost as large as he is. He chose the creature because sunflowers are his favorite flower and the name sounded neat. However, the young artist was startled to discover that the population of this species has been decimated by more than 90% in the past decade and is classified as critically endangered. Connor devoted two days to build his grand creation out of recycled cardboard boxes, a paper plate and lots of bubble wrap. He was not the only child to be alarmed by the rapid decline of his animal as 11-year-old Anastasia Asbill

of Mesa felt saddened to see that her favorite animal, the white Siberian tiger, was listed on the threatened species list and is still endangered. “I always loved tigers growing up, they were just my favorite animal. But I felt sad when I found out that people would shoot them and use their fur for rugs,” Anastasia said. “I felt like we should help them since they have feelings too.” From there, Anastasia devoted several weeks to meticulously fusing newspapers, feathers and discarded threads to fashion a small, cuddly artwork resembling her favorite species of tigers to spread awareness for its conservation. Rounding out the was Goodyear resident, Shane Peterson, 9, who decided to pay homage to his mother’s favorite animal by creating a leatherback sea turtle out of items he found scoured

throughout his home. Although most kids were surprised and saddened to see their species threatened or endangered, Shane was shocked to learn that his turtle had lineage dating back to the Mesozoic era and cited that as an additional reason for choosing the animal. When the submissions closed on June 8 for the kids to submit their pieces, so began an anxious time for some kids, especially Connor, who asked his mom daily if she had gotten an email from OdySea. However, when he got the news during breakfast that he was one of the winners, his glee lasted the entire day – even after his mom picked him up from summer camp later that day. Other participants, like Evan, were shocked to find out that the art had been judged and that there was more of an incentive than just a free trip to the

aquarium. The excitement was more amplified when the kids received artwork from the creatures themselves. Anastasia, who happens to be an artist who draws comics, said this was the first time that she had received a painting and had felt rewarded for her creative work. However, all of the kids admitted the most exciting part of the evening was the chance to pet a penguin and they were all startled by how soft the flightless bird is. OdySea Aquarium operators were elated to see a record number of submissions and hope to see more children practice conservation efforts at home to protect the animals that they modeled their art after. Info: odyseaaquarium.com

LEADERS from page 16

CONSERVE from page 16

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Twin brothers follow a passion for paramotoring BY MELODY BIRKETT GSN Contributor

esa resident Nik Rasheta and his twin brother Noah share a hobby off-hours — paramotoring. They’ve been passionate about flying since they were young, starting skydiving at 16 and both getting general aviation pilot licenses. Nik is a full-time valley police officer and while Noah lives in Texas, the brothers run Epic Paramotor in Mesa together, offering the thrills of powered paragliding and the training needed to do it safely. “The sensation of flying is just like magic,” said Nik. “It feels like you’re living out a childhood dream or a dream of flying. Once it lifts you, you’re sitting in a chair, it feels like a magic chair, that you can just tell where to go. You can go up, you can

Mesa resident Nik Rasheta and his twin brother Noah love the thrill of paramotoring – and share it with others through their Mesa business, Epic Paramotor. (Special to GSN)

go down, you can go right, you can go left. It’s just an incredible sensation.” The twins, both certified paramotor instructors, started their business four years ago. “It started as a passion for flight,” said Rasheta. “We’ve always known we wanted to fly. My brother has a rotorcraft pilot license. He was trying to find a way to be a helicopter pilot for a profession but it didn’t work out so he moved on to other entrepreneurial adventures. “I did the same. I got my fixed-wing airplane pilot license and decided to not go that route for work but I’ve always been trying to maintain aviation as something in my life.” Rasheta also got into motorcycling and his brother was about to do the same

see PARAMOTORING page 21

Research firm in EV seeks Alzheimer’s study participants BY SAMANTHA MORRIS GSN Staff Writer

lder black Americans are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s than whites. And Latinos are one and a half times more likely. This inequity has brought medical research group Care Access out to Mesa for a five-year study testing the investigational drug, Donanemab. The study, conducted in cooperation. with Eli Lilly & Company, aims to see if Alzheimer’s can be prevented in those aged 55-80 while taking the medication. These participants must also have normal cognitive function and be in good health. Sinikka Green, the medical coordinator at Care Access explained that Mesa is an ideal location due to its age and demographic makeup. “Mesa has a 55 plus population, which

Care Access, the world’s leader in decentralized clinical trials, and Eli Lilly & Company are bringing research to Mesa and held a ribbon cutting at its new Mesa offices. (Special to GSN) is of course what we are looking for,” explained Green. Additionally, Mesa has a strong Latino population, which is important due to

the impact of Alzheimer’s on that community. Historically, access to medical studies have been skewed towards white partic-

ipants. Combating unequal access is part of Care Access’s mission to meet people where they are. “Part of our mission is to be where diseases are endemic, where people are more genetically predisposed, and where there’s a higher need,” said Green. The medication developed by Eli Lilly and Co. is given to patients every four months via an IV infusion. It’s designed to break down amyloid proteins that accumulate in the brain and disrupt cell function, an early sign of Alzheimer’s. Tackling these changes in the brain early on could become a game changer if people can take a preventative medication that halts the progression of the disease. The average age of onset Alzheimer’s is mid 60’s, and this trial is trying to combat it 10-20 years before one develops symptoms.

see ALZHEIMER page 22

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

PARAMOTORING from page 20

when Rasheta discovered paramotoring it’s not legally reand shared it with Noah. “Within two quired. Gear can weeks, my brother had purchased equipbe purchased ment, set up training for himself and was and adventurers full steam ahead into paramotoring,” can learn to fly Rasheta said. on their own. Noah got into the business side of it “But experiand became an instructor. ence has shown it “The reason he did it was he knew how can be very danit had transformed our lives,” said Rashegerous because ta. “We had no idea it would be this inyou don’t know credible and accessible so we decided to what you don’t help other people have a route into what know,” Rasheta we discovered. That’s how it started.” added. “Aviation Noah started training people and is an unforgiving Rasheta would assist during his days off. sport if you’re When Rasheta became an instructor, the not aware of brothers branched out the school. the weather or “We try to structure the course that The Mesa brothers say paramotoring can be done 5 feet or thousands you don’t know when you leave, you have the minimum of feet above ground. (Special to GSN) about the equipamount of skill to be competent of flying ment you won’t on your own,” Rasheta explained. “But “We just help you learn to get to the have the benefit of learning from someyou’re still a novice when you leave. It point where you’re going to do it safely one else’s experience.” takes 50-100 hours of flying to get to the and not be breaking equipment or hurtFor those who want to learn on their Right clickthat swatch, and find and with correct point where you can go anywhere and COLOR: fly ing yourself own, he saidreplace there are organizations that to gather experience.” in almost any condition. A lot of the learnParamotoring is a skill and should be have a safe curriculum to learn. ing and the skill comes after the course. The biggest one is The United States learned with an instructor even though

Powered Paragliding Association which Rasheta said has “a recommended syllabus and a lot of experience and information…that has allowed people to learn and get into it safely.” There are different forms of experiencing flight that reflect peoples’ character and personality. “Some of us are very mellow and just fly 5 feet above the ground or thousands of feet above the ground, just enjoying the sensation of flying,” Rasheta explained, adding: “Some people like the adrenaline roller coaster ride part of flying. They’ll go up high and start doing turns that get more and more aggressive. And then all of a sudden, they’re doing what’s called a wing-over where they’re over their wing and it dips and descends and then they swing back out over it and you dip it where they can do a barrel roll. “It gets kind of aerobatic where you’re feeling the g-forces. It’s a lot like a roller color coaster ride.”

see PARAMOTORING page 22

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ALZHEIMER from page 20

While Mesa is the targeted population, anyone outside of Mesa can enroll. Participants are required to enroll with a partner that can observe any memory changes throughout the trial. The partner can be remote, and does not need to attend all study visits. Care Access also gives participants a debit card that compensates them for gas or any uber/lyft rides they may need for their appointments. They are looking for 3,300 people for the whole trial.

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

The nature of the screening process informs participants if they have an accumulation of proteins that can become toxic in the brain. Green has encountered hesitancy among people who would rather not know what may lie ahead in their future. According to Green, a history of Alzheimer’s in your family shouldn’t deter you from enrolling. “Unfortunately, a lot of people have a family history, because it’s such a prevalent disease. While family history can

be one of the risk factors, there’s a lot of others and a lot is really unknown,” said Green. Green said that for many patients a family history becomes their motivation, since they’ve seen the devastation firsthand and want to be a part of a solution.

“These are amazing humans who are donating their time, their blood, or whatever it may be to help us advance science and move it forward. They are going to make a big difference,” said Green. Information: fightalz.careaccess.com.

To get to that level of flying, you must have a lot of control and experience. There are advanced courses where you can learn high-g maneuvers. The two ways of flying a paramotor are foot launch and a wheels launch that looks like a go-kart with the same type of motor but on a frame with wheels. “The sport itself is accessible to all body types,” explained Rasheta. “If you’re heavy and can’t fathom running with 5060 pounds on your back, then you get the wheels set up where you don’t do any running. And because of that, you can have larger and heavier motors because you’re not carrying it – the wheels are.” Enthusiasts are not allowed to fly over congested areas and can’t fly at night. The hobby isn’t cheap with brand new equipment, including the backpack motor setup and paraglider, costing between $10,000-$12,000. Used gear costs $6,000-$8,000. “It’s all based on your weight and where you’ll be flying, what altitude your takeoff is,” explained Rasheta. “We’re at about 1,200 feet here. You’d want different equipment if you’re flying at 5,000 or 6,000 feet elevation in Utah or at the beach.”Once the equipment is purchased, the main cost is gasoline. “These things can fly about an hour per gallon,” said Rasheta. “And most of our fuel tanks hold about three gallons of fuel. Most people can fly about three hours on the long end but most of us average one to two hours because we don’t want to carry that much fuel weight on our takeoffs.” Maintaining the equipment is low-key. It’s a two-stroke engine that is very basic and accessible according to Rasheta. About every 50-100 hours, things like the bushings, the gasket or fuel lines need to be changed depending on the type of fuel used. San Tan Valley and Gold Canyon are

popular flying sites. “My favorite for personal flying is definitely Gold Canyon. I love flying up to the Superstition Mountains over Flatiron and as the sun is setting to the west, I descend the mountain and go over the saguaro desert, back over US 60, and then I land in the desert. That whole return is facing the sunset. It’s just a beautiful flight.” The sport does have its dangers. “The most common factor for danger or death in our sport is bad decision making,” Rasheta explained. “Sometimes it’s the attitude problem. Sometimes it’s the lack of knowledge problem. If you get the right training, at least you’ll have the knowledge to do it safely. Then it becomes an attitude problem. If you get complacent or invincible, you can make decisions that are very dangerous in this sport. “The most common fatality is people flying over water, going really low, and for whatever reason ending up in the water. And it can happen quickly. Then they drown because they’re connected to the wing and all the lines are there.” Rasheta added there are flotation devices flyers can carry with them. It gives a person time to separate from the equipment. “The second most common form of bad decision making is doing those aerobatic type moves but low,” Rasheta said. “Usually that happens in a show-off attitude where they’re really low and doing high, steep turns and miscalculate. The equipment can easily be carried by car. By disassembling the hoop and taking the propeller off, it’s about the size of a kitchen chair. Rasheta said a person needs to be able to carry a motor, with the lightest one weighing 45-50 pounds with fuel. He said typically kids need to be at least 12 years old and should pursue the sport with their family. Information: epicparamotor.com

PARAMOTORING from page 21

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

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Section 7 returned bigger and better for 2022 BY ZACH ALVIRA GSN Sports Editor

t’s the premier high school athletics event in Arizona. Every year it brings numerous high school basketball programs from across the western part of the U.S. and into the Midwest for a four-day showcase. College coaches flock to the Valley to see some of the top talent at Section 7, a tournament hosted by the Arizona Basketball Coaches Association at State Farm Stadium in Glendale. “It’s a great experience, something all of these players will always remember,” Perry coach Sam Duane Jr. said. “What Matt King and the Arizona Basketball Coaches Association have done, what David Hines and the AIA have done to help get this in here, it’s awesome.” Since announcing its move to State Farm Stadium, Section 7 has grown exponentially. Last year, just under 200 high schools participated. This year, 231 boys and 18 girls’ teams played on 12 courts placed over top of the concrete floor that is typically covered by the Arizona Cardinals’ game field. Thursday, June 16, marked the official start of the tournament. Teams were split into 14 brackets on the boys’ side while the girls played in one large tournament. A cast of all Arizona-based schools kicked off the tournament on its first day. Friday was the scheduled start for several others playing in brackets featuring out-of-state opponents. Perry, the defending 6A champion, played in the Fiesta Bowl Bracket alongside Mountain Pointe. It was arguably the toughest bracket at Section 7 with numerous powerhouse programs involved, including Corona Centennial and Harvard-Westlake out of California. “Tough bracket but we competed,” Duane said. “This is awesome for us. We

split games Friday against Archbishop Riordan and American Fork before capping off Section 7 on Sunday with a win over Eastside Catholic out of Washington. Like many others, Duane aimed to provide a unique experience for his players at Section 7. He wanted them to become accustomed to playing tougher competition and to receive exposure to college coaches. That worked as senior guard Cody Williams came away with offers to Arizona and Perry senior Ben Egbo opened the eyes of college coaches at Section 7, UCLA after the as he displayed his ability to be a keystone for the Pumas alongside Cody event. Williams and Koa Peat. The opportunity to play in front of that many Other playcolleges is something he was thankful for. (Dave Minton/GSN Staff) ers like guard battled and we will get better from this.” Ben Egbo also cherished the experience. Despite being without sophomore star He showed poise and an ability to help Koa Peat, who was preparing for a USA lead Perry on the floor. He believes he Basketball U17 training camp the same opened the eyes of college coaches, and weekend as Section 7, the Pumas im- that’s all he could ask for. pressed on the biggest stage. “It was definitely cool,” Egbo said. “Not Perry’s first loss of the tournament every team in Arizona gets to be in here. came Friday against a stout Sierra Can- So, it was definitely an opportunity you yon team from Utah. They went on to want to make the most of. It’s something

you dream about, really.” Other schools from Gilbert took park in the tournament, including Highland, Mesquite boys and girls, Campo Verde, Gilbert and Higley. Chandler, Hamilton girls and boys, Basha and Valley Christian represented the Chandler area, while Mountain View, Mesa, Desert Ridge, Red Mountain and Dobson represented Mesa. Queen Creek and Casteel represented the far southeast Valley while Saguaro, Chaparral, Scottsdale Christian, Horizon, Desert Mountain and Rancho Solano all represented Scottsdale. Desert Vista and Mountain Pointe out of Ahwatukee also competed. Perry’s girls went 2-2 at the tournament on Thursday and Friday. The girls wrapped up their play in two days while most boys went three or four. Overall, it was a unique experience for all of the team in attendance. And the coaches came away equally as impressed with the Arizona Coaches Basketball Association’s ability to pull off an event of that caliber. Valley Christian coach Greg Haagsma said it’s the premier high school basketball summer event that takes place in this region of the United States, and perhaps further. It’s also something he plans to always be a part of for as long as it remains. “The Arizona Basketball Coaches Association is a premier group of guys who really want basketball done the right way,” Valley Christian coach Greg Haagsma said. “They really put their time and energy to the setup being the easy it is because it markets kids. When you have a group of men like that who are really intent on this, I would be stupid not to be a part of this. “For as long as we have this, I want to be here.”

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East Valley pub serves authentic Irish fare BY MELODY BIRKETT GetOut Contributor

ince opening in March 2003, Fibber Magees in Chandler has been the East Valley’s destination place for anyone in search of an authentic Irish pub and fare. “One of the reasons we feel we can claim to be authentic is we got some Irish ownership,” bragged owner and General Manager Matt Brennan, one of four managing partners. “Two of the original founding partners were born and raised in Ireland and one of those is still the remaining partner of the four of us,” he added. “One of our partners is an Irish-born citizen and carries an Irish passport. It lends us a certain amount of authenticity.” “When making decisions about how the pub operates and the kind of offerings we have, what we’re trying to accomplish with the business, we’re doing it with the idea of would this be authentic to a pub in Ireland,” explained Brennan. “If we’re going to make a decision to show sports, is this something you could see in an Irish pub in the countryside for all of Ireland? We think those kinds of things lend to the authenticity.” The food certainly adds to the authenticity. “Corned beef and cabbage have become synonymous with Irish so it’s not something eaten in Ireland or wasn’t historically,” said Brennan. “We also have fish and chips which is traditional late-night drinking food all over Ireland and the UK in general,” Brennan said. “ The most authentic item, Brennan said, on the menu is the Irish breakfast or “Irish fry up.” It’s usually enjoyed on a weekend or

special occasion and consists of a plate of eggs cooked to order, Batchelor’s brand of Irish baked beans and rashers which is Ireland’s version of bacon (pork loin as opposed to pork belly, cured but not smoked, and more similar to Canadian bacon). Also included is black and white pudding which is a mixture of meat, spices and grains, like a sausage. And bangers or housebaked Irish brown bread is served, too, as part of the breakfast along with grilled tomatoes and sautéed mushrooms. “Everything is imported,” said Brennan. “We bring in the real ingredients from Ireland to make sure Fibber Magees owner/General Manager Matt Brennan has we’re offering the most built an authentic Irish menu and atmosphere at his Chandler authentic plate of food restaurant. (Special to GetOut) we can.” While burgers aren’t considered authentic Irish food, the Rasher Burger is a popular item and comes with Irish bacon as opposed to American bacon for a little twist. “The Belfast Burger is one of our signature burgers with sautéed onions and mushrooms, garlic aioli, onion ring, choice Fish and chips is one of the specialties at Fibber Magees. of cheese on a brioche (Courtesy of Matt Brennan

bun,” said Brennan. “Nothing particularly Irish about it other than its name but it’s one of our most popular burgers. “People who go out to a pub are still expecting pub fare and burgers certainly fall under that.” When it comes to popular Irish beers, Guinness is usually what comes to mind. “It’s not to say there aren’t other brewers in Ireland but Guinness is going to be represented by about 80-percent of all Irish beer sales or more,” Brennan said. “Currently, we have a Guinness draft stout available here at the pub. We are actually the reigning Perfect Pint Champion for 2022. Every year, Guinness brewery collects the bartenders from the top Guinness accounts throughout Arizona, and gets them all together to compete in a round-robin tournament,” he continued. “Whoever is the last person standing gets crowned Perfect Pint Champion. That was our bar manager Mike Fisch. This is the third time we’ve been the champion. We’re the only pub in Arizona that has won three times. So, we take the Guinness pouring very seriously.”

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King Crossword

Answers on page 28

ACROSS 1 5 8 12 14 15

16 17 18 20 23 24 25 28 29 30 32 34 35 36 37 40 41 42 47 48 49 50 51

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With JAN D’ATRI GetOut Contributor

This rub will make the perfect BBQ addition

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ansas City, Carolina, Texas, Memphis or St. Louis style. All I know is that this dry rub is magic dust on a rib – just in time for your summer menus. It’s the perfect seasoning for a meaty slab of pork or beef ribs, finished off with just a light brushing of barbecue sauce. So let’s tackle cooking first. Slow and low. It’s the only way to keep those juices moistening the meat. For the rub, don’t overpower. Generally, whatever sticks to the slab should give you just the right amount of flavor. And because BBQ sauce is loaded with sugar or honey that can burn, save it for the last 10-15 minutes, and then just lightly coat it on the slab at the end of the cooking process. You want the flavor of the rub to come through. Now for the rub. It’s an incredibly simple formula I found in an old paperback cookbook called “Tasty Vittles.” This rub is the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, hot and salty. You can add a slightly citrusy kick if you’re using something like a chili lime sea salt, or burn it up big time with various chili powders. I’ve been on a quest for a good basic rub that I can make ahead, keep it in a jar in the pantry, and shake out onto a slab whenever I’m craving ribs, and this is it! Start with the basic rub and then add your own special touches using some of your favorite herbs and spices, a little at a time, until you make it your own. Rub some ribs and reap the rewards this summer! Rub ingredients: (Makes about 1 cup) 1/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed 1/8 cup sweet paprika (do not use regular paprika) 1/8 cup smoked paprika (do not use regular paprika) 2 teaspoons onion powder 2 teaspoons garlic powder (not garlic salt)

½ teaspoon dry mustard ¼ teaspoon cumin ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes 1 tablespoon sea salt 1 tablespoon black pepper Directions: In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix with your hands or a fork, breaking up any lumps. Store in an airtight jar in the pantry or cupboard. For the ribs: 3 ½ pound slab of meaty ribs (I used pork back ribs) 2 tablespoons grape seed or vegetable oil 2 cups of your favorite BBQ Sauce, divided Homemade dry rub Directions: Pre-heat oven to 325 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with several sheets of tin foil. Brush oil lightly over top of ribs (meat side up). Sprinkle dry rub liberally over ribs and lightly pat. Bake for about 2 ½ to 3 hours or until thermometer reaches 180 degrees. Brush with one cup of barbecue sauce during last 1015 minutes. Serve with remaining cup of barbecue sauce, warmed.

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The pub also offers four Irish beers on draft - an Irish red ale called Smithwick’s, Harp, Irish logger, and Irish cream ale Kilkenny. An Irish cider is served, too, which Brennan said is also popular. The restaurant also owns its own brand, called Boyle’s Beer Company. It’s made under contract by a local craft brewer and represents a marriage between old-world-style Irish beers and American craft beers. What differentiates Irish beer from other beers is water, according to Brennan. “Water in Dublin is quite hard and mineral-rich and when you use that kind of water to make beer, it leaves a very distinctive flavor to the final product that people have come to love over the years. It’s one of the reasons Guinness tastes the way it does. “Brewers in America, where we have a different water source, try to treat the water by adding minerals and salt back into it to replicate that Dublin-style

water.” Brennan is originally from Chicago and worked in the beer business for over 20 years, including owning a Chicago pub and neighborhood bar and grill in Chicago. “I was not part of the original ownership group at Fibber Magees,” said Brennan. “I was hired in 2013 to be the general manager and within 1 1/2 years’ time I worked out an equity deal with the partners where I would become a partner …and I’m now the majority shareholder of the company.” “It’s a tough business – never more so than these days. If you don’t enjoy doing it, it doesn’t lend itself to being successful. You need to be hospitable. If you’re not in a good mood it’s impossible to be hospitable.” In addition to serving food and beer, the pub offers live music, bar trivia and bar games and hosts a craft beer festival each July. Information: fibbermageespub.com, 480-722-9434.

What Matters Most?

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES ON PAGE 26

Give your family peace of mind with preplanned burial, cremation, or funeral arrangements. No one serves Mesa and Chandler with more compassion, experience, and value than Legacy. Call or visit us online today.

Call today to make an appointment.

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AZLegacyFuneralHome.com

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG

How to Practice Interviewing job opening, and things you’d like to accomplish were you to get the job. Determine what your answers will be in advance, and make sure you’re ready to put your best foot forward.

REFINE YOUR ANSWERS Interviewing can be stressful, in particular if you’re worried about misspeaking. The good news is that there are often standard questions involved with these discussions, meaning you have an opportunity to refine your answers before going face-to-face with someone who will decide your employment fate. They’re likely to ask you about previous experience in the field, what brought you to this

TRY A MOCK INTERVIEW Your answers should be limited to a few sentences for each question so that the interview can proceed. Rehearsing alone is a good place to start, but nothing beats personal interaction. Ask a friend to sit in for a mock interview, with a provided list of talking points. This will help you further refine your answers, as they ask follow up questions. You can also work on eye contact.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

FOCUS ON ATTITUDE There’s an old saying: “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” Looking the part and meeting the job requirements won’t secure the job if you don’t have the right attitude. Job recruiters are looking for enthusiastic, collaborative candidates, in particular if you are going to be in a public-facing position or placed in a leadership role. Don’t disparage your last boss, or talk dismissively of previous tasks you’ve been charged with. Sometimes the difference between getting hired and getting overlooked is nothing more than having an upbeat point of view.

BE NIMBLE There is more than one interviewing style, so it’s important to be nimble. Some hiring managers are interested in thoughtful, more detailed conversations, while others may be cut and dry. They’ll only ask a few general questions, then move on to the next person. The most successful candidates can “read the room,” quickly ascertaining what’s required. You’ll need to craft your answers according to these expectations in real time. No matter the interviewing style, remember to make your responses short and to the point. You can chat more after you’re hired.

• In-Ofﬁce Position • Health, Dental, Vision • Paid Vacations, Holidays • 401K and more • Full-Time

Times Media Group is a digital and print media company operating in the Phoenix, Tucson, and Los Angeles markets. We have experienced signiﬁcant growth in recent years due to our commitment to excellence when it comes to providing news to the communities we serve.

Why Work Here?

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If you are a hardworking and resourceful individual, please respond with your resume and a cover letter outlining why you believe your skill set and experience make you a good ﬁt for this position. We are currently scheduling interviews for an immediate opening.

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EOE

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CALL TO ADVERTISE 480-898-6465

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

Join Our

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to join CMC in Mesa. Scan the QR code or visit us online to apply today!

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG

Times Media Group is a digital and print media company operating in the Phoenix, Tucson, and Los Angeles markets. We have experienced significant growth in recent years due to our commitment to excellence when it comes to providing news to the communities we serve.

Why Work Here? Times Media Group offers a positive work environment, employee training, a talented team, and lots of professional growth opportunities. Times Media Group is a digital and print media company operating in the Phoenix, Tucson, and Los Angeles markets. We have experienced significant growth in recent years due to our commitment to excellence when it comes to providing news to the communities we serve.

Job Description We are seeking a highly organized, friendly, and outgoing individual who excels at making customers happy and keeping the office environment functioning. A good candidate will have strong computer and communication skills and an ability to build rapport and communicate with customers, usually by phone.

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

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

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

NOW HIRING

Employment General

INSIDE SALES TEAM PLAYER IN TEMPE

Deloitte Consulting LLP seeks a Consulting, Senior Solution Specialist in Gilbert, AZ and various unanticipated Deloitte office locations and client sites nationally to drive the development of Cloudbased technologies, including data cleansing and conversions, interface design/development, and systems development life cycle. 15% travel required nationally. Telecommuting permitted. To apply visit apply.deloitte.com. Enter XBAL23FC0622GIL2473 in “Search jobs” field. EOE, including disability/veterans.

Salary + Comission, Beneﬁts, Vacation and Sick Time Times Media Group is the largest publisher of community news in Arizona. With a complete digital advertising suite and over 300,000 copies a week – our reach is a must-have for local businesses, and we offer advertising solutions to ﬁt any business in any community! We are hiring inside advertising sales representatives to help with inbound and outbound sales. TMG has grown 500% in the past six years, and we expect this growth trajectory to continue. Come join us! Do you get excited when you sell? We get it - it’s exciting to sell! Do you have an interest in selling solutions and not just ads? If you are a fast learner, tech savvy and familiar with Google and other digital advertising solutions, you should contact us. If you want to learn how, we have you covered too! Will train. This is a full time job with the hours of 8:30-5pm Mon-Fri. in Tempe near the Broadway Curve. Need we say more? Contact us TODAY!

Please send your resume to:

careers@TimesLocalMedia.com

FIND YOUR PASSION

EOE

Deloitte Consulting LLP seeks a Consulting, Solution Specialist in Gilbert, Arizona & various unanticipated Deloitte office locations & client sites nationally to Provide software development and implementation services to help companies unlock the value of technology investments, ranging from requirements to architecture, design to development, testing to deployment, and beyond as discrete services or comprehensive solutions. 15% travel required nationally. Telecommuting permitted. To apply visit apply.deloitte.com. Enter XBAL23FC0622GIL1515 in “Search jobs” field. EOE, including disability/veterans.

Obituaries

H E A D STO N E S

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jobs Phoenix org To Advertise Call: 480-898-6465 or email Class@TimesLocalMedia.com

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Employment General Deloitte Consulting LLP seeks a Consulting, Senior Solution Specialist in Gilbert, AZ and various unanticipated Deloitte office locations and client sites nationally to drive the development of Cloudbased technologies, including data cleansing and conversions, interface design/development, and systems development life cycle. 15% Travel required nationally. Telecommuting permitted. To apply visit apply.deloitte.com. Enter XBAL22FC0522GIL8329 in “Search jobs” field. EOE, including disability/ veterans. Deloitte Consulting LLP seeks a Consulting, Senior Solution Specialist in Gilbert, Arizona & various unanticipated Deloitte office locations & client sites nationally to drive software development and implementation services to address manufacturing, financial, human resources, customer relationship management, supply chain, and other business needs, utilizing SAP products. 15% travel required nationally. Telecommuting permitted. To apply visit apply.deloitte.com. Enter XBAL22FC0622GIL826 in "Search jobs" field. EOE, including disability/veterans. Various Amazon.com companies, including Amazon.com Services LLC & Amazon Web Services, Inc. – Tempe, AZ: Software Development Engineer II: Design, develop, implement, test, & document embedded or distributed software applications, tools, systems, & services. (AMZ5729204). Risk Manager II: Manage & develop a team of Risk Managers & Risk Specialists that conduct large scale investigations to derive insights about tactics used to conduct abuse on Amazon’s stores. (AMZ5700993). Risk Manager III: Identify, design, develop, implement & execute new & existing processes, policies, goals, & solutions to reduce potential risks. (AMZ5764126). Multiple job openings. Apply online: www.amazon.jobs – search by AMZ job #(s). EOE.

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

40 Years Serving the Central Valley

Wanted to Buy Diabetic Test Strips by the box, unused. Any type or brand. Will pay top dollar. Call Pat 480-323-8846

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

Land/Acreage/ Lots 8.25 acres for sale. Can be split into 2 acre lots. Snowflake AZ. Zoned residential/agricultural. Parcel #20246013E, roll # 32818. $43k for all. MLS 231323 TBD Call Tony 480-206-6332

FREE Service Call (with repair) • Second Opinion HERE IS SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE OUR 40 YEARS IN BUSINESS

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rk Since 1999 Affordable, Quality Wo BSMALLMAN@Q.COM 1999 ce Sin rk Wo y Affordable, Qualit

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Small Man!”

Since 1999 Affordable, Quality Work

2010, 2011 2012, 2013, 2014

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★ 30+ Years HVAC Experience

Family Owned & Operated

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Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor

Air Duct Cleaning

Air Conditioning/Heating

GARAGE DOOR SERVICE

Not a licensed contractor

REG. $119

480-725-3511

Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! HOME FOR Painting • Flooring • Electrical Handyman Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry Decks • Tile • More! RENT? Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! Place iMarks t herethe! Spot for ALL•Your Handyman Needs! ✔ Painting Painting Flooring • Electrical

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480.266.4589 josedominguez0224@gmail.com Not a licensed contractor.

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Glass/Mirror

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GLASS, MIRRORS, SHOWER DOORS

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Meetings/Events?

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Submit to ecota@TimesLocalMedia.com

K HOME SERVICES “For all your Home Exterior Needs”

Roger Kretz 480.233.0336

rogerkretz@yahoo.com 25+ Years of Customer Services

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

Irrigation

Plumbing

Painting

Jose Dominguez Painting & Drywall SEE OUR AD IN DRYWALL! Quick Response to your Call! 15 Years Exp 480-266-4589

• Sprinkler/Drip Repairs • New Installs Poly/PVC • Same Day Service ARRANTY 5 -YEAR PART W

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Irrigation Repair Services Inc. Licensed • Bonded • Insured

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Plumbing

L L C

Prepare for Monsoon Season! LANDSCAPING, TREES & MAINTENANCE

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Free Estimates • Senior Discounts

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Pool Service / Repair

Juan Hernandez

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Call Juan at

480-720-3840 Not a licensed contractor.

Roofing

PHILLIPS

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Family Owned and Operated 43 Years Experience in Arizona

623-873-1626 Free Estimates Monday through Saturday

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www.eastvalleypainters.com Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131

Call for our 3 Month Trial Special!

Pool Service / Repair

Voted #1

Family Owned & Operated

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

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Quality Pool Service, That is Priceless! Weekly WeeklyServices Services

Licensed 2006 ROC 223367 Bonded Insured

Netting • Brushing • Emptying Baskets Netting ● Brushing ● Emptying Baskets Equipment Check • Water Testing Equipment Check ● Water Testing

Other Services

Other Services Pump/Motor Repair & Replacement Pump/Motor Repair & Replacement Sand/Water Change • Repairs • Acid Wash Sand/Water Repairs ●&Acid Wash HandrailsChange • Filter ●Cleaning Repair ● Filter Cleaning & Repair PoolHandrails Tile Cleaning • Green Pool Clean Up PoolAngela Tile Cleaning ● GreenClark, Pool Clean UpClark Owners: Clark, Chelsea & Homer

480-489-0713 • lizardpools.com Owners: Angela Clark, Chelsea Clark, & Homer Clark ROC 303766

ROC 303766 ● 480-489-0713 lizardpools.com

PhillipsRoofing.org PhillipsRoofing@cox.net MORE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE! www.EastValleyTribune.com

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

Roofing

480-699-2754 • info@monsoonroofinginc.com

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

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MonsoonRooﬁngInc.com Licensed – Bonded – Insured – ROC187561

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Public Notices

Truth in Taxation Hearing Notice of Tax Increase In compliance with §15-905.01, Arizona Revised Statutes, Mesa Unified School District is notifying its property taxpayers of Mesa Unified School District’s intention to raise its primary property taxes over the current level to pay for increased expenditures in those areas where the Governing Board has the authority to increase property taxes for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2022. The Mesa Unified School District is proposing an increase in its primary property tax levy of $2,900,000. The amount proposed above will cause Mesa Unified School District’s primary property taxes on a $100,000 home to be $32.22. Without the tax increase, the total taxes that would be owed would have been $24.56. These amounts proposed are above the qualifying tax levies as prescribed by state law, if applicable. The increase is also exclusive of any changes that may occur from property tax levies for voter approved bonded indebtedness or budget and tax overrides.

FIND YOUR PASSION

All interested citizens are invited to attend the public hearing on the proposed tax increase scheduled to be held July 12, 2022 at 5pm at the Curriculum Services Center at 549 N. Stapley Dr. Building #2 Mesa, AZ 85203 Published: East Valley Tribune, June 26, 2022/ 47393

Valley Wide Service

480-446-7663 FREE Estimates • Credit Cards OK www.spencer4hireroofing.com ROC#244850 | Insured | Bonded Life Events

SHARE WITH THE WORLD! Place a Birth, Anniversary, Wedding Announcement, In Memoriam, Obituary or any life event in this paper today! Call us for details. class@timespublications.com or call 480-898-6465

FIND YOUR PASSION Ahwatukee Chandler Gilbert Glendale Mesa North Valley Ocotillo Peoria Phoenix Scottsdale Tempe West Valley

JOBS JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG

MetroPhoenix

Ahwatukee Chandler Gilbert Glendale Mesa North Valley Ocotillo Peoria Phoenix Scottsdale Tempe West Valley

To Advertise Call: 480-898-6465 or email Class@TimesLocalMedia.com

GILBERT SUN NEWS | JUNE 26, 2022

#1 Rated Shop in the East Valley

Se Habla Español

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