Gilbert Sun News - 10.17.2021 by Times Media Group

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Sunday, October 17, 2021

Panel, town staff split on apartment complex BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

own planners say a proposed 278-unit apartment complex is not a good fit for 13.46 acres zoned commercial in Gilbert’s oldest and densest employment corridor and wants decision-makers to reject it. But the Planning Commission last Wednesday voted 4-3 to recommend that Town Council approve the request for a minor General Plaan amendment and a rezone allowing for the Alta Gilbert project on McQueen and Elliot roads.

The case is expected to go to Council on Nov. 16 for final say. “We’re here this evening with a good project that would allow this property owner to use their property in a very reasonable, consistent manner that we think will help with the revitalization of this area,” said land-use attorney Sean Lake on behalf of developer Wood Partners. That northwest corner of the town contains mostly light industrial and back office space in the science, technology, aerospace and manufacturing sectors. The town is working on designating that corridor as a redevelopment area in order to reverse the

area’s decline and keep it viable. Wood Partners is proposing two buildings three stories high and two buildings four stories high on 11.09 acres and a “specialty sit-down” restaurant at the corner on 2.37 acres for the second phase. The un-gated complex’s amenities would include garages, a resort-style pool, game lawn, cabanas, yoga and spin room, gym, clubhouse and a coffee and tea bar. Staff opposed taking commercial land out of play. “A lot of multi-family already exists in the

see APARTMENT page 4

Concrete slide in Gilbert provokes injury claims BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

playground staple apparently is injuring users young and old alike at Gilbert Regional Park. The culprit: a concrete slide. A grandmother has filed a claim demanding $150,000 from Gilbert for injuries she says she incurred while going down the slide, which is situated on a hill within the 272-acre park near Queen Creek and Higley roads. Kaycee Schultz filed her

claim in August, though her contact information has been redacted. “The Shultz claim is being investigated,” town spokeswoman Jennifer Harrison said. In her claim, Schultz said she, three of her grandchildren and her daughter-in-law visited the regional park in March of this year and were at the playground when she decided to give the slide a try. “I positioned myself on the top of the slide, sitting down

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The elaborate piece of playground equipment is built around a concrete slide that some users claim injured them. (David Minton/GSN Staff Photographer)

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

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Higley, other schools could face huge budget hit BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

igley Unified and other school districts in Arizona are facing the prospect of not being able to legally spend some of the money they are receiving. And without legislative action, they will have to reduce their spending this school year by a cumulative total of more than $1.2 billion. That translates out to more than $1,300 per student than what they’ve already budgeted – a 17 percent drop. Put another way, they will be able to collect the state and local taxes as planned. They just won’t be able to spend it all. And that has implications for districts that may find themselves unable to pay for the teachers they hired and the contracts they’ve already signed. The only thing that could avert this fiscal train wreck would be action by the Legislature, which could approve an exemption from the voter-approved aggregate expenditure limit of about $6.6 billion. But that would take a two-thirds vote. And that vote would have to happen soon after lawmakers reconvene in January to help schools avoid having to make up that 17 percent loss in spending authority with last-minute cuts. Higley Unified CFO Tyler Moore said the cuts would total $23 million for the district. “A budget cut in this amount would be detrimental to the recent funding increases in public education including teacher salary increases, the restoration of District Additional Assistance (DAA), increased special education funding, and others,” he said. “Considering the state budget has over a $1 billion surplus,” Moore added, “we don’t see why the state would put public school districts in a situation where they would need to immediately do drastic mid-year cuts and possibly implement furloughs.” Lana Berry, Chandler Unified School District chief financial officer, said, “It’s definitely something we need to work on. It’s extremely important, and I think all of our legislators understand that.

“This would impact our district drastically,” Berry said. “We’d have to dip into our reserves to cover that. But some districts don’t have reserves. We’re very fortunate.” “It’s catastrophic and it would be devastating to our budget, especially since we’ve already committed contracts for the year,’’ said Chris Hermann, chief financial officer for the Kyrene Elementary School District. And he said if the district has to start altering spending plans in the spring “it doesn’t give you hardly any time to make adjustments.’’ Scottsdale Unified Chief Financial Officer Shannon Crosier said, “We find this possible funding reduction to be very alarming. A reduction of this magnitude, especially after the school year has started, would significantly impact our budget and require cuts that would directly impact students, staff and our community. “We will work with our state leaders to find a positive solution to this issue, one that allows us to continue providing world-class, future-focused education to all students,” Crosier said. “Additionally, we continuously strive to find ways to ensure we utilize tax dollars efficiently and effectively.” Scott Thompson, assistant superintendent of Mesa Public Schools, said, “Since we have not yet addressed this issue with our governing board, I can’t comment at this time.” Without the federal funding and if spending stayed the same, the state’s largest school district would have had a budget deficit. There was no reaction from the state’s fifth largest school district as Gilbert Public Schools spokeswoman Dawn Antestenis said, “We have no comment at this time.” Pima County School Superintendent Dustin Williams said he and his staff have looked for a way around the expenditure limit short of legislative intervention. But they haven’t found one. And absent action at the Capitol, he said there will be a “devastating impact’’ on education. “Schools have the money currently in their bank account,’’ Williams said. “But they wouldn’t be able to spend it, which is

ironic because that’s what we’re all trying to do right now ... make sure that the kids and the schools are all safe and then, also, really start to tackle the learning loss.’’ That, he said, leaves it up to lawmakers to come up with a plan. “And, hopefully, the governor can come through and help us all as well,’’ Williams said. But gubernatorial press aide C.J. Karamargin would not commit to Ducey supporting an exemption. “The governor is not going to comment on pending future legislation, if it is pending at all,’’ he said. State schools chief Kathy Hoffman wants legislative action. “Needless cuts will severely hamper school districts’ ability to serve students and help them recover from the effects of the pandemic,’’ said press aide Morgan Dick. “We need serious leadership and meaningful action from lawmakers so our schools can get on to their critical work of providing safe in-person learning for students in their community.’’ Senate President Karen Fann, R-Prescott, said she is personally interested in helping schools avoid a crisis. “The intention is never to do these kind of draconian cuts,’’ she said. “As we know right now, many of the schools are struggling already with the COVID issues,’’ Fann said. “We don’t need to pile more on to them right now.’’ House Majority Leader Ben Toma, R-Peoria, agreed for the need to act. “We expect to address the matter in the upcoming session,’’ he said. And Toma said part of the reason an exemption is needed is “because Republicans have funded K-12 education at record levels.’’ But the current problem is more complex than that. It goes back to the aggregate expenditure limit that voters approved in 1980 for all K-12 spending statewide. Based on figures at that time, it is adjusted annually for inflation and student growth. What’s happening this year is largely the convergence of two unusual factors. First, the limit is always based on last

see SPENDING page 5

NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

APARTMENTS from page 1

area,” said senior planner Keith Newman. “We don’t encourage multi-family developments on arterial corners throughout the town and see this corner as more of an infill product that would be more appropriate for commercial and industrial uses similar to what exists to the west and to the south of this site.” Newman said Alta Gilbert didn’t conform with several polices in the General Plan that support existing non-residential land use or would support a change from commercial to another non-residential land use classification that would remain compatible with the surrounding employment uses. According to Newman, there were still unresolved staff concerns with the proposed project, including the fact it would force increased setbacks of industrial development west of the site and increased setbacks for commercial property north of the site, limiting any future expansion or construction. Additionally, the three-story apartments proposed along McQueen Road would be visually unappealing to the residents living in the two-story single-family homes across the street, Newman said. “The impact of two 36-foot-plus apartment buildings where the long side of each building faces the street that faces McQueen Road, totaling 388 feet of building frontage, will have a very significant impact on existing single-family homes across the street that are only a little over 200 feet away,” he said. “Imagine walking out your back door as being one of those homeowners and seeing these massive apartment buildings, two of them for a stretch of almost 400 feet.” Staff also had a problem with the project’s conceptual elevation in that the design did not meet the same level of quality as recently approved high-end apartment complexes such as Elevation San Tan, Town Commons and Novel Val Vista, according to Newman. Newman also presented slides showing the number of multi-family units existing within a 12-mile, 5-mile and 3-mile commute radius of the site. Within 12 miles, there are 1,989 multi-family properties totaling 185,170 units. Another 10,186 units are under

Town staff thinks this proposed apartment complex at McQueen and Elliot roads would impair their ability to attract industrial development. (Town of Gilbert) construction and 252 approved, he said. In all, approximately 5,000 multi-family units have been permitted in Gilbert that are not yet constructed, according to staff. Newman noted no one from the public showed up at two neighborhood meetings on the project and that Council has received 44 letters of support – 34 from tenants and 10 from property owners. Lake said the days of four-corner retail are long gone with the advent of e-commerce and that the site has sat vacant for decades. “This property was zoned for retail development when I was in high school,” Lake said. “That This map shows how the two sets of apartment units would was over 35 years ago.” be built on the site. (Town of Gilbert) He said the property owner has waited patiently to develop the construction and 4,223 have been ap- site while continuing to pay commercial proved but not yet built, according to taxes on it. Newman. Lake said the town has seen expansive In a 3-mile radius, there are 6,454 growth over the last 15 years in the east multi-family units existing, 96 under and south but “not much has happened

in the northwest quadrant.” “It’s kind of the older part of town that we haven’t seen a whole lot happen,” he added. “The majority of apartments that (Newman’s) talking about were built in the 1990s. So, we have an old housing stock. We don’t have anything new, anything nice.” He also referenced a report from the Urban Land Institute Arizona, which in 2019 took a look at the Northwest Corridor and recommended the Town put in more multi-family residences to support the workforce in the area. “We are woefully behind in the country, as in the state of Arizona, on the amount of rental units that are needed in this state, in the Valley and I think Gilbert is one of the least percentage of multi-family housing of any city in the East Valley,” Lake said. “We need more housing stock in this community and if you’re going to have multi-family housing stock you might as well put it in an area where the community wants it.” Lake also addressed staff’s strong encouragement that the developer look at a loft-above project where there would be residential on top and retail on the bottom floor of a building, which would not require a rezone or minor General Plan amendment. The Epicenter at Agritopia is building such a project. If the developer stayed with the existing zoning, the entire first floor would have to be for retail use and in “our opinion there is just not the demand in this area for that amount of retail,” Lake said. “We’re not interested in filling up the residential for three stories and then have vacant commercial for a year, two, three years and then I’m back before this commission and the Council saying, ‘guys, there’s no demand for the retail in this area. Let me put homes in there,’” he added. “And then all of a sudden we’re back to rezoning the property or whatever the staff would make me do at that time.” Lake said a commissioned study by Elliot Pollack found that “The Wood Partners project would generate over 4.5 times the amount in annual local tax revenue compared to an industrial project.” The project also would generate over

see APARTMENTS page 8

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

NEWS

Robotics helping GPS students master subjects

BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor

ilbert Public Schools is increasing the use of robotics in the classroom, which is helping students learn other things. “I know a lot of times we see robotics and think, ‘oh those are nice neat little toys’ but that’s not the case,” said Jon Castelhano, executive director of technology at last week’s Governing Board study session. “There’s a lot of learning that goes on behind them and we can’t integrate them into the curriculum and the teachers can use these in their lessons to hit many of the standards that they teach,” he said. Castelhano said the biggest obstacles for districts in using this technology is they don’t know how to get started, what to purchase and the teachers don’t have the confidence to use it. That’s where the Technology Integration Educators’ Library of Robots or TIEbrary steps in. “We knew that we couldn’t provide robots for every classroom in every school in the district,” Castelhano said. “It would be very costly but if we could put together a kind of a TIE-brary that then the teachers could reach out to them and then they could take these devices into the classrooms and work shoulder-to-shoulder with them and then the school could invest in their own if they wanted to, which they have.” He added that robotics helps students

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year’s student numbers. Chuck Essigs, lobbyist for the Arizona Association of School Business Officials, estimates that the drop in students in public K-12 education last year, much of that due to COVID, will reduce the spending limit by about $300 million. But the bigger problem is one that the Legislature created in seeking to provide financial help. In 2000 voters approved Proposition 301 to levy a 0.6-cent sales tax to fund education, including teacher salaries, for 20

tion and problem-solving. Shawn Abele, instructional technology coordinator, presented video clips of students using robotics in their learning. One of the video’s success stories showed GPS officials showed off the way teacher are engaging with students in the connection robotics classes. (Gilbert Public Schools) of robots to the curriculum in the learning of velocity. “The students were having difficulty visualizing positive acceleration, zero acceleration and negative acceleration and when they were able to see it with the robots, the light bulbs went off, Abele said. “Look at the students in the picture – on task, paying attention and learning.” Robotics is being used at all grade levels, with English-language learners and students with disabilities. Abele said a teacher was able to turn a Makey Makey into a touchpad and modify a CodeRobotics is being used at all grade levels. a-pillar by attaching tactile ob(Gilbert Public Schools) jects so that a student who was develop a wide range of skills such as hard of hearing, visually impaired and teamwork, perseverance, communica- had some developmental delays could

also program robots. “The teacher wanted to give him the same opportunity that his junior high peers had,” she said. Castelhano said GPS over the last couple of years started building the library with grant monies and district funding. The district purchased over $7,900 worth of stuff and the companies provided the training. In fiscal year 2020-21, the district purchased five sets of robots and taught over 120 robotics lesions for PreK-8 at 14 campuses and that three schools have purchased their own equipment, according to Castelhano. For the current fiscal year from August to September, the district has nine sets of devices being used at over 20 schools from PreK-12 and taught over 50 lessons, he added. “We’re going to spend $10,000 more out of our budget for more devices,” Castelhano said. Board member Jill Humpherys thanked Castelhano and his department for their efforts, giving “kids the handson learning and critical thinking and problem-solving skills.” “I think this is exactly what they need to be dealing with the technology that we seem to race towards and have more and more of,” she said. “They will have a basic understanding that will help them to navigate that better. “It does look fun and engaging but I think there’s a lot of lessons also behind what they’re doing.”

years. And voters made those revenues exempt from the aggregate expenditure limit. With that tax expiring this year, lawmakers in 2018 agreed to a new, identical levy to pick up in July and run until 2041 to keep the money flowing without interruption. But they never exempted what the new levy will raise from the expenditure limit. And that alone accounts for more than $632 million of money now coming in to schools --– money they formerly got to

the problem. To balance the budget in the last decade, lawmakers cut dollars from the “district additional assistance’’ fund, money earmarked for schools to pay for items like books, computers and buses. That account was zeroed out by Ducey during his first year in office. That account is now fully funded. But those additional dollars that were restored to schools also helped to push total statewide expenditures above the constitutional limit.

spend but, legally speaking, cannot spend this year absent a legislatively approved exemption. If lawmakers do not act, that starts the process of determining how much each district will lose in spending authority. Essigs said the way the law is written, anything over the expenditure limit is divided up among all schools, with each forced to reduce spending by the percentage set regardless of how much they were spending. There’s something else complicating

NEWS

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

Gilbert aims to expand its tree inventory GSN NEWS STAFF

ilbert came in dead last on this year’s list of 100 Greenest Cities in America using 28 key metrics, according to a report released earlier this month by WalletHub.com. The personal financial website gave the biggest weight for environmental indicators that included urban heat island effect, green space and greenhouse-gas emissions per capita. But the town is taking steps toward a healthier and more livable community with a Shade and Streetscape Master Plan. “Gilbert has done an excellent job so far in keeping its community cool,” said Justin Azevedo with The Design Laboratory in Tempe. The consultant provided an update of the 100-page draft master plan at last Tuesday’s Parks and Recreation Board meeting. The master plan provides a roadmap to increasing the number of trees and shade structures in town. It includes guidelines such as a list of potential trees to be planted, an updated planting and maintenance ordinance, the initiation of a “Right Tree, Right Place”

policy, highlights of nonprofit and private sector partnerships, and suggestions for implementation and strategies that will reduce water demand. Azevedo said 17 percent of the developed land in Gilbert currently is covered with trees, “which is pretty great.” The goal is for 30 percent shade coverage, which Azevedo called doable but not something that can be done overnight.

He added that the U.S. Forest Service has recommended a 30-percent tree canopy coverage for arid regions. According to the draft, the town has about 17,000 documented trees. Parks and Recreation Director Robert Carmona noted that the town lost 400 trees this summer alone from storms. The master plan focused on eight areas, including the Heritage District, San Tan

Village, Morrison Ranch and Agritopia. For instance, currently in the Heritage District there is a 13-percent shade coverage, which is sparse and inconsistent. The plan recommended more variation of tree species and maturity downtown to include wider canopies and offering incentives to encourage private businesses

and facing front with my right leg slightly in front of me to help control my speed,” Schultz said. “It felt like I flew down the slide at a very high rate of speed and then was abruptly discharged from the slide causing me to forcefully impact the ground.” The woman said she was using the slide as intended and after hitting the ground, knew she had severely injured her leg and ankle. She was in pain and could not stand and was taken to Mercy Gilbert Medical Center’s emergency room by her daughter-in-law, according to the claim. Schultz said she underwent surgery the next day for injuries that included a three-part fracture of her right ankle and a dislocated ankle joint. She began physical therapy in July and was told “only time will tell as to future arthritis in the ankle.”

Weeks following the incident, Schultz said her quality of life has plummeted as she dealt with swelling and residual pain. “Prior to this injury I led a very active life,” said Schultz, who added she lived with her son and daughter-in-law and helped take care of their two small children, clean the house and cook. She said she was left unable to get the children up in the mornings, fed, dressed and entertained during the day while their parents worked. She also had to install a doggie door at a cost of $609 for two dogs she cared for as she could not walk to let them out. She also claims she had to cancel several trips, including one to see her elderly mother in another state. “Obviously this injury has had a significant and detrimental effect on my life and those around me,” said Schultz, who

was unsure if she will be able to resume hiking in the future. “I am making good progress but it is unknown whether I will develop arthritis in this ankle or whether at some future date the hardware will need to be removed.” So far, she said, her medical costs came to $154,733 but more bills were expected and she was still undergoing physical therapy. She also claimed that she lost $250 in wages because before she was injured she worked for several different auto inventory companies on an as needed basis. “In light of the medical bills, lost wages, continued treatment and possible future treatment and surgeries, pain and suffering, inconvenience and complete disruption of my life and the lives of those around me who depend on me I believe $150,000 is a fair settlement,”

she said. Schultz isn’t the only one who has been hurt on the slide as people have been talking about their injuries on social media since the park’s opening two years ago “The playgrounds are huge and designed great except for the concrete slide,” wrote a woman two months ago on the Town’s Regional Park Facebook page. “Do not allow your children to slide down this slide. Due to the fact that the slide is concrete your body will slide faster than you can handle. It’s not a curved drop it’s a straight drop. I slid down to test it and my body slid so fast I twisted sideways. I was really surprised they had this in the playground. It’s nuts.” And a month after the park opened in

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Gilbert officials used this graphic to illustrate the town’s inventory of trees and their environmental impact. (LGE Design)

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

SLIDE from page 6

NEWS

September 2019, people wrote about injuries they or others received from the slide. “My friend’s son got a concussion yesterday from this slide,” a woman said. “His pediatrician has filed a complaint with the town of Gilbert because of all the injuries he sees from it!” While another said she broke her back on it and was lucky to walk. Another woman in an August 2019 posting, gave a thumbs down for the slide, saying “great park with the exception of the giant cement slide. The engineer who designed it and all the people who signed off on this will be held

accountable one day. There were three kids who injured their heads in the 45 minutes we were there.” Town officials insisted its playground equipment was designed, manufactured, and installed in accordance with the standards outlined in the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Handbook for Public Playground Safety. “Playground equipment at all Town parks are maintained according to industry-approved standards,” the Town’s statement read. “Injuries occur from time to time on playground equipment at Town-owned parks, and when notified of injuries, the Town investigates

the circumstances surrounding the injury to determine the cause.” Harrison did not respond to questions about whether other complaints or claims have been filed involving the concrete slide and if steps have been taken to address safety concerns. The slide was part of Phase 1A amenities, which opened September 2019, followed by Phase 1B in summer 2020. There are two remaining phases to the 272-acre regional park. Concrete slides appear to be a problem elsewhere as well. Two women reportedly sued the city of Pismo Beach in June over spinal in-

juries they claimed they suffered while on the two slides there. The women claimed the slides propelled them in a way they injured themselves upon landing. Slides aren’t the only playground equipment that has drawn complaints against Gilbert. Last November a claim sought $150,000 after a boy was injured on playground equipment – the Fitcore Extreme Jump Hang – at Desert Sky Park, which opened in fall 2019. Harrison said the claim was denied. Claims that are denied can lead to a lawsuit.

and landowners to plant trees. The plan also looked at seven corridors totaling 10 miles such as Val Vista Drive, Power Road and Higley Road. According to Azevedo, one of the biggest challenges is projecting the shade coverage of young trees because the town is young. He also discussed the guidelines including planning the right tree at the right place to avoid infrastructure problems later and a new list of trees for the town that are low-water use. The list phases out sissoo and ash trees – the former with its invasive root system causes structural damage and the latter has a short lifespan and high-water use. Azevedo also said that the Tree City USA program has added two criteria that the Town must meet if it wants to hold onto its designation – forming a tree board or a subcommittee and having a tree care ordinance. He said in outreach with the public, most people want Gilbert to keep the designation it’s had since 2013 Gilbert is one of 30 communities in Arizona recognized for their commitment to effective urban forest management. Azevedo also addressed WalletHub’s finding, noting that Gilbert was doing “fairly well” when compared to other municipalities in the Valley. The town’s current 17 percent shade coverage was higher than communities such as Scottsdale with 9 percent, Phoe-

nix with 6 percent and Tempe with 13.4 percent. And, he said, Gilbert still had a fair percentage of land that has not been developed yet and there was a serious backlog of trees that needed to be replaced in town. He also pointed to Freestone Park,

which has less than half of its trees planted. It currently has 7 percent existing trees and will need 510 more trees to reach 15 percent. To reach 30 percent, it would need 1,387 trees, he said. Shade structures also will play a role in protecting against the heat but trees provide the town more bang for the

buck because they also help with pollution, according to Azevedo. The draft master plan is expected to go to the Planning Commission in November for input. The consultant has met with stakeholders and done outreach to the public with the draft, including hosting an opening house in August.

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

State’s teacher shortage may be worsening worse. A new survey by the Arizona School Personnel Administrators Association found that schools were able to fill fewer than one out of every five vacancies they had for this school year. And 55 percent of those they did manage to fill were with people who are not actually certified educators. This is the sixth year the organization has found a similar pattern. But Gov. Doug Ducey rejected the idea that things are the same as when they were when he took office in 2015. “There’s a lot that’s changed since I’ve been governor,’’ he said. “The focus on education has been in every state budget,’’ Ducey continued. And he specifically cited the average 20 percent pay hike given teachers. But state schools chief Kathy Hoffman said it’s no surprise that the vacancy problem has remained relatively unchanged. “One of the factors that has also remained consistent is that Arizona continues to rank 50th for teacher pay,’’ she

said. Hoffman said that 20 percent pay hike “did not go far enough.’’ “We needed a next step,’’ she said. Hoffman said that could have been addressed in part by voter approval in November of Proposition 208. That 3.5 percent surcharge on individual incomes above $250,000 a year – $500,000 for couples – would have raised an estimated $827 in additional dollars, with half of that to hire teachers and classroom support personnel and to raise teacher salaries. But the Arizona Supreme Court, ruling on legal challenges from some Republican lawmakers and business interests, have thrown the future of the levy into doubt. And that financial issue, Hoffman said, is “overshadowing all of our efforts’’ to keep teachers in the classroom. Justin Wing, past president of the association that conducted the survey, said alternate pathways did help. But he said they make up only a portion of that 55 percent of non-certified people leading classrooms. That category includes everything from people who are simply awaiting certification, teachers brought to Arizona from other countries through special visa programs, teachers brought into the state from foreign countries, and even

college and university students who are being put in front of a classroom, alone, even before they have graduated. There also were teachers brought in under a special visa program from other countries. Yet the vacancy problem remains. Even after bringing in people through alternate means, schools this year said 28 percent of the vacancies – 6,560 in the 145 school districts and charter schools that responded – are being dealt with through a combination of longterm substitutes, contracting out for certain services like special education, and even combining classes to the point where the number of students exceeds the school’s class size limit. Wing’s survey found 160 teachers who simply did not report to work at the start of this school year. Last year the figure was 141. And districts reported that another 124 simply abandoned their jobs since the start of the school year, compared with just 56 at the same time a year earlier. Ducey said none of this is unique to Arizona. “There could be 48 other governors standing here that have a teacher shortage as well,’’ he said. “That’s something that is challenging the country.’’

Ducey insisted, though that “Arizona is leading the country in addressing them.’’ Wing said the long-term solution remains getting more high school graduates interested in making teaching a career. Ducey said that is happening with the Arizona Teachers Academy, a program where students who go into education get one or more year’s worth of free tuition. Wing said the problem with that is its marketing -- or lack thereof. “If you step into the door at a college of education at any local university or college, you will find out about the grant, probably,’’ he said. “And you may be eligible for it.’’ But at the point a student is walking in the doors of a college of education, Wing said, that person already has decided or is at least considering teaching as a career. “What about targeting graduates of high Title I schools?’’ he asked, high schools with a high percentage of students coming from needy families. Hoffman said she does believe there has been marketing of the program. But she said that also needs to be combined with other programs to get high schoolers interested in making teaching a career.

$3 million in construction taxes and Alta Gilbert would bring in $560,000 annually in taxes to the town compared with industrial’s $315,000, according to the consultant. Staff said the Pollack study didn’t take into account the multi-family that exists or are being built. Lake said the developer would be making a $70 million investment in the area and that the household incomes of residents at Wood Partners’ multi-family developments are over $100,000. Chairman Jan Simon asked staff if there has been any commercial or residential interest or if they’ve heard of any coming down the pipeline for the site. Economic Development Director Dan

Henderson said staff has talked with a number of retail, residential, office and industrial brokers about the site. “We’ve also talked with landowners immediately south of the area and what those individuals have told us is that there is interest in developing other product mixes on this site,” Henderson said. “We talked with an individual today as a matter of fact that is just south of this site and he very specifically said once the dust settles on this he’d be more than happy to pursue light industrial development and put a couple hundred thousand square feet of light industrial on this site,” Henderson added. Vice Chairman Noah Mundt said he knows the area well and that it would be

nice to have something nice on the dirt lot. But his hang-up was with the impact on the setbacks to the adjacent industrial and business uses. He said it was easy to say put industrial use on the site but if no one is willing to pay market value for that, it’s a disingenuous statement. Although the proposed project was not a perfect fit within the General Plan, it would help revitalize the area, Mundt said, adding that the developer’s efforts showed a quality product. Commissioner Brian Andersen said this was an unusual case for him in that typically the public would show up against a multi-family project. But no one has voiced concerns and there were let-

ters of support, he noted. As for the setbacks, he didn’t see it as a problem as it was unlikely the existing industrial user would be expanding. Andersen’s hesitancy was that the developer submitted a detailed development plan that must be adhered to with no room for change to resolve concerns or improve the design later on. The commissioners voted separately on the recommendations for the minor General Plan amendment and for the rezone. The votes were the same with Commissioners Brian Johns, David Blaser, Andersen and Mundt giving the green light to Council while William Fay, Anthony Bianchi and Simon dissented.

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

rizona continues to have a shortage of teachers for the classroom – and the problem may be getting

APARTMENT from page 4

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

ANSWERS TO PUZZLE AND SUDOKU ON PAGE 30

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COMMUNITY

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

For more community news visit gilbertsunnews.com GilbertSunNews.com

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Gilbert teen addresses global health experts BY KEN SAIN GSN Staff Writer

rizona College Prep senior Sohani Sandhu has a plan to end the COVID-19 pandemic: learn the lessons from one of her least favorite subjects – history. The Gilbert resident over summer presented her plan as part of the Global Health Leaders Conference at Johns Hopkins University, one of the top medical schools in the world. Her topic was what lessons learned from the smallpox pandemic can be applied to ending the COVID threat. “This was one off the deadliest pandemics that ever happened, but it was still stopped,” Sohani said. “It took a long time, but it was still stopped because people came together and stopped it.” The Centers for Disease Control says there is evidence smallpox existed as far

Gilbert resident Sohani Sandu, a senior at ASrizona College Prep, participated in a global health conference. (Special to GSN) back as when Egypt was making mummies some 3,000 years ago, killing three of every 10 people who got the disease.

A vaccine was developed in 1796 but it wasn’t until 1959 that the World Health Organization began a plan to eradicate smallpox. With mass vaccinations across the world, they succeeded. A declaration went out in May 1980 that the disease was no more. It did, however, kill between 300 and 500 million people in the 20th century alone. Sohani said the lesson from that pandemic is that vaccines work. The W.H.O. made it a priority to vaccinate everyone who came into contact with an infected person. Doing the same for COVID-19 will not be as easy. First, when you got smallpox you knew it because the symptoms were obvious, Sohani said. That’s not the case for COVID and many people who are asymptomatic are unknowingly spreading the virus. “The huge reason smallpox was eradi-

cated was the vaccine,” Sohani said. If COVID is to join smallpox on the list of eradicated diseases, Sohani said everyone must get vaccinated. Sohani found out about the Global Health Leaders Conference at her school and applied to participate. She said she wasn’t sure if she would be chosen because it was open to high school students around the world and there were only 300 spots. Once she was chosen, she applied to be one of the few chosen to give a presentation. There were fewer than 50 presentations planned. Getting to that point took finding something to love about something she hated. Sohani said she was assigned a mandatory history project in the sixth grade. “I hate history,” she said. Her teacher suggested she focus on

see PANDEMIC page 11

Gilbert woman seeks help battling cancer BY ALEX GALLAGHER GSN Staff Writer

t is hard for Menith Sonhthipanya-Gonzales to remember what her life was like before her diagnosis of simultaneous primary tumors. The Gilbert woman’s life was a constant whirlwind of traveling around the country as a medical vendor and evaluating hospital equipment. It was around two years ago when Sonhthipanya-Gonzalez began to feel fatigued and lethargic. So she went to a doctor and the initial diagnosis was fatigue from insufficient vitamin D. She did not think anything further and kept going on with her life. During this time, she had begun trying to have a child with her husband of

Menith Sonhthipanya-Gonzales and her husband’s life have been upended by her cancer diagnosis. (Special to GSN)

11-years, Erik. The two were not having any luck and as a result, Sonhthipanya-Gonzalez decided to try in-vitro fertilization over the summer. During the process, Sonhthipanya-Gonzalez had to adhere to a specific routine if she wanted to become pregnant. And it was not long into the process that she realized something was wrong. “When you’re doing IVF, it’s critical that everything is timed and that every injection is 12 hours apart perfectly,” she said. “For 10 days, I injected myself with medication and one day I had the most excruciating pain. It was then that I knew something was not right.” Doctors told her that she was just

see CANCER page 11

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

COMMUNITY

Help sought for wreaths on veterans’ graves

he tradition started in 1992 in Maine when a family that owned a tree farm had a surplus of Christmas wreaths and donated the extras to the Arlington National Cemetery to put on its graves. And over the years, that thoughtful act blossomed into a nationwide movement in which anyone can honor deceased veterans by contributing to local organizations that place wreaths on their graves. This year, the Exchange Club of Chandler and its counterpart in Ahwatukee are working with Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery in Chandler for the sixth annual Chandler Wreaths Across America Day event on Dec. 18. Over time, the event has drawn other organizations, including Chandler Elks Lodge #2429 and the Ahwatukee-based

Exchange Club of Phoenix. Their goal is to raise enough money to place wreaths on approximately 2,800 veterans’ graves at Valley of the Sun Cemetery. Last year, approximately 1,800 wreaths were sponsored and organizer Mark Whitaker said, “We will need help from the community to achieve the goal of sponsoring 2,800 wreaths.” According to the U.S. Department of Defense, the Maine family that started this tradition got an eager reception to their proposal. “Several volunteers stepped up to help, including veterans from American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts and a truck company owner who transported the wreaths to Arlington, Virginia, where a small ceremony was held at the cemetery’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,” according to department. This remained a small yearly tradition

for nearly 15 years until a photo taken at the 2005 ceremony went viral. “Almost immediately, thousands of people wanted to know how to help or how they could begin a similar tradition in their states,” the Defense Department said. By 2008, it had become a tradition at dozens of cemeteries across the country and has continued to grow, with more than 2.2 million graves across the country now decorated with a wreath at more than 2,100 cemeteries. Chandler’s annual event consists of laying out the wreaths and a memorial ceremony. Volunteers will begin gathering around 8 a.m. for light refreshments and the laying of the wreaths will begin at 9 a.m., Whitaker said. “Each wreath symbolizes the commitment to remember and honor our nation’s veterans and teach our children about freedom and the sacrifice required

to maintain our freedom,” Whitaker said. There will be an educational activity for children to help them learn about veterans. “As wreaths are laid, we ask that the volunteers respectfully remember the veteran by saying the veteran’s name aloud,” Whitaker said. The formal ceremony will start at 10 a.m. and will be streamed on Facebook Live on the Valley of the Sun Cemetery, Chandler Elks, and the Exchange Clubs of Chandler and Phoenix Facebook pages. Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery has been serving Chandler and the East Valley since 1963. Between now and Nov. 30, people can sponsor a wreath for $15. They can also sponsor a family pack of four wreaths for $60. Small business sponsorships of $150 support 10 wreaths. To make a donation: reathsacrossamerica.org/AZ0084P.

things she likes. At that point, it was medicine because her mother was a nurse. She also enjoyed science since she had started a biology class. Her teacher suggested looking at past pandemics. And that’s when she first started researching small pox and ended up doing to her mandatory history project on the disease.

Her mother, Harwinder Sohani, said her daughter is always working. “My son is in medical also,” she said. “But she’s the one interested in medical. I feel so proud.” Part of what keeps her busy is Sohani and some of her friends at school are about to launch their own medical device.

As part of a 9th grade project, they invented the hydro-hat, which she calls a heat stroke prevention device. It caught the eye of Arizona State University and the Healthy Urban Environment program, which Sohani said offered them a $50,000 grant to make it. They also received a $2,500 grant from Intel for the device.

She said they have a patent pending and have formed their own company. They are currently testing a prototype now. That background led her to create a research club at Arizona College Prep. “If you ask anyone at my school, ‘what does Sohani do?’ they’re like, ‘science.’ That’s pretty much it.”

experiencing abdominal pain from the medication she was injecting. They recommended that she try a warm bath or using a cold compress on the area in pain. Sonhthipanya-Gonzalez did that but the pain would not go away. She went to the emergency room and later to Scottsdale Medical Imaging – which was where Sonhthipanya-Gonzalez got the news that would change her life. She learned that she had a tumor on her spine and another in her uterine lining. “I felt numb,” Sonhthipanya-Gonzalez said. “My life changed within less than a day. This went from being nothing to

being catastrophic.” She then began to coordinate with doctors what was next. They concluded she needed surgery to remove the tumors. She received her first surgery in June to remove the tumor in her back and her husband started a GoFundMe page to help with the looming medical bills that her insurance could not cover. “I did the surgery with the completion of it, meaning that they removed all of the affected cells,” Sonhthipanya-Gonzalez said. Despite a successful procedure, she still has a long road ahead to recovery – including another surgery.

“I have to have imaging repeated every six months, bloodwork done every three months and there is always that fear of it returning in the back of my mind,” Sonhthipanya-Gonzalez said. She is also receiving massage and intravenous therapy as part of treatment. However, the most expensive part of her recovery is trying to get into Mayo Clinic’s Pain Rehabilitation Center, a three-week program that helps people that are going through chronic pain navigate life and figure out a course of action. This is a big bill that her insurance will not cover. The GoFundMe has currently raised over $12,000 of its $75,000 goal. “When we started (the GoFundMe),

I didn’t have a goal in mind and I didn’t think it would garner any attention,” Sonhthipanya-Gonzalez said. “It is very touching and I am beyond grateful that people care that much to donate, especially because most of the people who have donated don’t know me directly.” Sonhthipanya-Gonzalez has felt touched by every dollar donated to her battle, but she still is adjusting to her new normal. “My norm now is waking up, seeing what doctors’ appointments I need, taking my vitamins or supplements, doing my pain rehabilitation, and figuring out what procedures or imaging studies are needed next,” she said.

GSN NEWS STAFF

PANDEMIC from page 10

CANCER from page 10

BUSINESS

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

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Vendors delighted with Gilbert Farmers Market BY ASHLYN ROBINETTE GSN Contributor

he Gilbert Farmers Market bustles with people of all ages skillfully weaving their way through crowds to ensure that they saw every food truck and vendor booth offering organic produce, farm fresh food and other locally-made artisan products. Mouth-watering scents and sounds of laughter filled the air while families and pets roam and speak to small business owners. The experience accomplishes a lot. “Our mission is to promote local sustainability, healthy eating and green living practices among the Town of Gilbert and its surrounding areas,” according to the market’s website. It also aims to educate people “about local food by providing them the opportunity to personally meet with the farmers and other vendors to learn where their food comes from and how it’s grown and produced.” Also known as “Gilbert’s Foodie Market,” it debuted in October 2010 with fewer than 30 vendors. Now, the outdoor market has more than tripled its lineup and features more than 100 vendors Saturday. It is now in its fall/winter mode, open 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays in an area west of the Gilbert Water Tower at the southwest corner of Ash Street and Page Avenue in the Gilbert Park & Ride. Before every Saturday, a complete vendor map and lineup is posted on the market’s Instagram and Facebook page, both @gilbertmarket. Vendors offer baked goods, fresh drinks, hot food and more. The market has not only brought people together during a time of uncertainty, but it has also helped small businesses by increasing sales, offering

Gilbert Farmers Market has grown steadily since it was founded in 2010. (GFM Instagram) social media exposure and building long-lasting relationships. The market helped businesses survive the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to increase sales, provide new opportunities and serve as a source of networking, vendors say. The public was encouraged to shop local, and farmers and vendors said they received vital support during a challenging time. Much of the market’s success is credited to Dan and Jessa Koppenhofer, who founded GFM. “Because of Dan and Jessa Koppenhofer’s tireless efforts, vendors had a home to sell their products each Saturday during the pandemic ... Dan and Jessa worked very closely with the Town of Gilbert to understand and implement the ever-evolving pandemic health guidelines to provide a safe environment for shoppers and vendors,” said Francis Nelson Beebe, a baker and president of Mr. Nelson’s Cookies. It also was one of the few farmers markets open during the pandemic, so

it attracted new customers, Beebe said. Beebe noticed that many new customers from areas outside of Gilbert, including Phoenix and Scottsdale, found their way to the market and realized what a great place it is. “This arrival of first time faces resulted in new sales for Mr. Nelson’s Cookies during the pandemic,” he said. “I would assume the other GFM vendors during this time experienced the same sales bump.” Another way the Koppenhofers help GFM vendors is by promoting them consistently on the market’s Instagram page, which has over 55,000 followers. “The Gilbert Market is truly a huge part of our success today,” said Marla Giordano, founder and owner of Marla’s Cupcakes. “Dan and Jessa gave us a chance to showcase our product to the East Valley and we have only continued to thrive. “Thanks to Jessa, our social media presence is so much bigger and stronger, which has helped us receive more orders than ever before.”

Since starting at the market in April, Giordano said she couldn’t be happier and commends the Koppenhofers for the large role they play in keeping small businesses alive and thriving in the East Valley. “We have the most amazing relationships with our customers, as well as other small businesses,” she added. “It truly is a great networking avenue.” Interacting with hundreds of different customers on a weekly basis has opened doors for many businesses, such as Kettle Heroes Artisan Popcorn. “Selling at the GFM allowed us the opportunity to interact with our customers in the East Valley on the ‘ground level’ and directly learn their wants and desires,” said Rudi Sinykin, chief operating officer and co-founder of Kettle Heroes Artisan Popcorn. “More importantly, it opened up many sales avenues by introducing our brand to ‘foodies’ who appreciate natural, high-quality food,” he said. Kettle Heroes Artisan Popcorn has been sold at the market since 2014, but Sinykin had no idea how much it would grow his business. “Selling at the GFM introduced us to the Basha family and that chance encounter propelled us into selling our artisan popcorn at Bashas’ and AJ’s Fine Foods,” he said, explaining: “This started a new trajectory for our business where we now are dedicated to producing packaged ready-to-eat popcorn and sell in grocery stores throughout the greater Southwest.” Many vendors said one of their favorite things about the market is their relationship with customers and other vendors. “We absolutely love being at GFM,” said Mary Zeiner, who owns and runs

see FARMERS page 13

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

BUSINESS

Globally popular café-bakery picks Chandler GSN NEWS STAFF

café-bakery chain with more than 1,000 locations worldwide has picked Chandler for its first foray into Arizona. After eyeing the market for the past year, 85° C Bakery & Café has selected the growing Chandler Ranch at 1920 W. Chandler Blvd. near Dobson Road with the help of NewQuest Properties. A NewQuest spokesperson said the café signed a long-term lease for 3,555 sf in Chandler Ranch “after witnessing first-hand the strong attendance at 99 Ranch Market’s recent grand opening.” “85° C Bakery & Café knows the type of redevelopment we’re doing. The 99 Ranch opening was a shining example of the high demand in the Chandler market,” said Naoyuki Kondo, an associate with NewQuest Properties’ Asia-Pacific Retail team. The sweet shop will open in spring 2022. Another NewQuest tenant in Texas, Somisomi Soft Serve & Taiyaki, also has jumped on board at Chandler Ranch. It will open in early 2022, backfilling 1,470 square feet previously occupied by Tao

FARMERS from page 12

Waffle Crush with her daughter, Ariana. “We attend almost every Saturday, we have a lot of regulars who come every week to see us. “My daughter Ariana (when she is on the truck) knows them by name and what they order.” The Zeiners said that vendors come and purchase waffles from them each week and that their truck team buys from other vendors too. “It is a great community that they have created and we are so happy to be part of it,” they said. “We are all small local businesses and we have to stick together to grow and strive for a great future.” Another business that values the GFM community is The Local Lemon. “We love our locals!” said Kelly and Sam Schumaker, who own The Local Lemon and began selling made-to-order

to people who’ve relocated or are visiting from California and Texas,” Kondo said. Heather Nguyen, development partner of the specialized group, is partnering with Kondo Chan85° C Bakery & Café is bringing its world famous operation to Chandler on dler Ranch’s early next year. (Special to Gilbert Sun News) leasing. They Healing. have been targeting new-to-market NewQuest’s Asia-Pacific Retail team internationally recognized brands for is focused on assembling a destination the 117,565-square-foot redevelopmix of Asian, Mexican, Mediterranean ment. and American restaurants and eclectic “Chandler Ranch, like our centers in shopping experiences. Other businesses Dallas and Houston, lets consumers opening by year’s end include Kura explore and experience the best of the Revolving Sushi Bar, Uncle Lee’s Kitchen, best of international cuisines,” Nguyen Meet Fresh and Ramen Hood. said. “In the near future, we’re hoping “These are new-to-market brands, we’ll have leases in hand with several in many cases, that are well-known new-to-Arizona retailers as well.”

One of the highlights of the market is fresh roasted corn on the cob. (Facebook)

“Chandler boasts the largest Asian population in Arizona, making it a natural fit demographically for Houston-based NewQuest’s innovative development/redevelopment concept,” she added. 85° C Bakery & Café opened its first store in the U.S. in 2008 in Irvine, Calif. Today, it has 67 shops in five states. According to the cafe’s website, founder Cheng-Hsueh Wu visited a cafe in a five-star hotel and “realized that the prices were set way too high for people to enjoy on a whim.” He decided to open “a cafe that provides premium coffee, bread, and cake at affordable prices” and his business has been featured in numerous major TV shows and magazines. “The name 85ºC comes from the idea that the perfect brewing temperature for espresso coffee is 85º Celsius,” it adds. “Each cup of coffee is individually brewed with Guatemalan coffee beans for a smooth, rich taste. … Each store features an in-shop bakery with over 50 varieties of pastries baked fresh hourly. Our gourmet cakes are uniquely crafted by our award-winning master chefs.” lemonade at the GFM in July. They also sell fresh lemonade at Uptown Farmers Market in Phoenix every Saturday. “The continuation of these two recent markets is just an additional source of income for us since we semi-retired,” they said. “Both markets are so well attended and the community supports local businesses. We are happy to be at each one!” Isabella Ribaudo, founder and owner of Honeybee Cookie Company, started selling her decorated sugar cookies that are sweetened with local honey at GFM in 2019. She too said that attending the market has been beneficial to promoting her business and selling her product. Like other vendors, Ribaudo said she looks forward to growing her business and building relationships through the market for years to come.

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

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“That’s because after the Bank Rolls were loaded with 15 rarely seen Silver Walking Liberties, each verified to meet a minimum collector grade of very good or above, the dates and mint marks of the U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberty Half Dollars sealed away inside the State of Arizona Restricted Bank Rolls have never been searched. But, we do know that some of these coins date clear back to the early 1900’s and are worth up to 100 times their face value, so there is no telling what Arizona residents will find until they sort through all the coins,” Lynne went on to say. And here’s the best part. If you are a resident of the state of Arizona you cover only the $39 per coin state minimum set by the National Mint and Treasury, that’s fifteen rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberties worth up to 100 times their face value for just $585 which is a real steal because non state residents must pay $118 per coin which totals $1,770 if any coins remain after the 2-day deadline. The only thing Arizona residents need to do is call the State Toll-Free Hotlines printed in today’s newspaper publication before the 2-day order deadline ends. “Rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued silver coins like these are highly sought after, but we’ve never seen anything like this before. According to The Official Red Book, a Guide Book of United States Coins many Silver Walking Liberty Half Dollars are now worth $40 - $825 each in collector value,” Lynne said. “We’re guessing thousands of Arizona residents will be taking the maximum limit of 4 Bank Rolls because they make such amazing gifts for any occasion for children, parents, grandparents, friends and loved ones,” Lynne continued. “We know the phones will be ringing off the hook. That’s why hundreds of Hotline Operators are standing by to answer the phones beginning at 8:30 am this morning. We’re going to do our best, but with just 2 days to answer all the calls it won’t be easy. So make sure to tell everyone to keep calling if all lines are busy. We’ll do our best to answer them all.” Lynne said. The only thing readers of today’s newspaper publication need to do is make sure they are a resident of the state of Arizona and call the National Toll-Free Hotlines before the 2-day deadline ends midnight tomorrow. ■

HOW TO CLAIM THE LAST STATE RESTRICTED BANK ROLLS FACTS:

If you are a Arizona State Resident read the important information below about claiming the State Silver Bank Rolls, then call the State Toll-Free Hotline at 8:30 am: 1-800-979-3771 EXT: RWB2681

Are these Silver Walking Liberties worth more than other half dollars:

Yes. These U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberties were minted in the early 1900’s and will never be minted again. That makes them extremely collectible. The vast majority of half dollars minted after 1970 have no silver content at all and these Walking Liberties were one of the last silver coins minted for circulation. That’s why many of them now command hundreds in collector value so there’s no telling how much they could be worth in collector value someday.

How much are State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls worth:

It’s impossible to say, but some of these U.S Gov’t issued Walking Liberties dating back to the early 1900’s are worth up to 100 times the face value and there are 15 in each Bank Roll so you better hurry if you want to get your hands on them. Collector values always fluctuate and there are never any guarantees. But we do know they are the only Arizona State Silver Bank Rolls known to exist and Walking Liberties are highly collectible so anyone lucky enough to get their hands on these Silver Bank Rolls should hold onto them because there’s no telling how much they could be worth in collector value someday.

Why are so many Arizona residents claiming them:

Because they are the only State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls known to exist and everyone wants their share. Each Bank Roll contains a whopping 15 Silver Walking Liberties dating back to the early 1900’s some worth up to 100 times their face value. Best of all Arizona residents are guaranteed to get them for the state minimum set by the National Mint and Treasury of just $39 per Silver Walking Liberty for the next two days.

How do I get the State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls:

Arizona residents are authorized to claim up to the limit of 4 State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls by calling the State Toll Free Hotline at 1-800-979-3771 Ext. RWB2681 starting at precisely 8:30 am this morning. Everyone who does is getting the only State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls known to exist. That’s a full Bank Roll containing 15 Silver Walking Liberties from the early 1900’s some worth up to 100 times their face value for just the state minimum set by the National Mint and Treasury of just $39 per Silver Walking Liberty, which is just $585 for the full Bank Rolls and that’s a real steal because non state residents are not permitted to call before 5 pm tomorrow and must pay $1,770 for each Arizona State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Roll if any remain.

R1043R-3

NATIONAL MINT AND TREASURY, LLC IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. MINT, THE U.S. GOVERNMENT, A BANK OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. IF FOR ANY REASON WITHIN 30 DAYS FROM SHIPMENT YOU ARE DISSATISFIED, RETURN THE PRODUCT FOR A REFUND LESS SHIPPING AND RETURN POSTAGE. THIS SAME OFFER MAY BE MADE AVAILABLE AT A LATER DATE OR IN A DIFFERENT GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. OH RESIDENTS ADD 6.5% SALES TAX. NATIONAL MINT AND TREASURY, PO BOX 35609, CANTON, OH 44735 ©2021 NATIONAL MINT AND TREASURY.

OPINION

Opinion GilbertSunNews.com |

@Gilber tSunNews

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

For more opinions visit gilbertsunnews.com /Gilber tSunNews

Public schools owe taxpayers a better investment BY MATT BEIENBURG GSN Guest Writer

rizona public schools just hit a major milestone — they’re officially more expensive than the full freight tuition cost of sending a child to college at a four-year university here in the Grand Canyon State. As newly reported by the nonpartisan Joint Legislative Budget Committee, Arizona public schools are now so awash in funding that they will have $14,326 to spend per student in the 2021-2022 school year. By comparison, according to the same budget analysts, tuition and fees at Arizona State University cost around $3,000 less, coming in at $11,348. At Northern Arizona University and the University of Arizona, those tuition totals rise only to $11,896 and $12,671, respectively. In other words, attending any of Arizona’s three public universities would cost a family less than taxpayers are kicking in for each student in our public K-12 system. That’s not a message many proponents of the

K-12 education bureaucracy want parents and taxpayers hearing, but then again, neither is the fact that Arizona’s per pupil K-12 funding has risen more than 40 percent over the past four decades (even adjusting for inflation and even before Arizona’s share of the latest two rounds of the $200 billion of federal COVID stimulus funds are even factored in). Now, in fairness, university tuition is partially subsidized by state and federal funding as well — and universities also received a windfall of cash from federal funds ostensibly related to COVID relief, so the total annual bill for a university education remains larger. But unlike for our K-12 kids, Arizona families have complete control over whether they want to shell out the $11,000+ per year for a college degree. When it comes to K-12, taxpayers typically have to foot that bill regardless of whether a family thinks the education being offered is worth anything like $14,000 per year. Indeed, while many Arizona families fortunately have options via the state’s robust school choice landscape, there’s no shortage of students who

have been utterly failed by the public school system while being blocked from using even a portion of that $14,000 for an education better suited to their needs. And while public school spendthrifts are already melting down over the recent defeat of the blatantly unconstitutional Proposition 208 income tax increase, Arizona voters need to very quickly realize just how much bloat has been added to our public school system. As officials in the Mesa Unified School District have confessed, for example, with the avalanche of federal COVID funding, “It’s exciting but also terrifying to know we have so much to spend.” And unfortunately, as documented by Nat Malkus of the American Enterprise Institute: “Less than 20 percent of total ESSER [Covid relief] district funding will go to reopening, on average, and less than 40 percent will go to recovery. All told, $78 billion – $123 billion, out of nearly $190 billion – could go toward spending not directly related to COVID-19…[raising] questions of whether this overly abundant federal spending was intentional…[and]

how districts might avoid ineffective, unnecessary, or otherwise undesirable expenditures.” There’s no doubt that Arizona’s education establishment will seek to squeeze out every ounce of extra dollars from taxpayers once this federal funding bonanza recedes, inevitably calling it a “cut” when legislators let the supposedly COVID-related relief funding recede back to more normal levels in future years. Arizona voters, however, deserve better than this narrative and must begin now to demand a higher return on the investments in our public schools before racking up even higher spending on them going forward. The runaway cost of America’s higher education system has already led too many students into exorbitant debt with a mixed return on their investment. Arizonans might want to think twice before celebrating even greater costs in K-12 education.

Matt Beienburg is director of education policy and director of the Van Sittert Center for Constitutional Advocacy at the Goldwater Institute.

REAL ESTATE

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

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Leaves are falling, home prices aren’t BY MINDY JONES GSN Columnist

here’s something that happens after the first of October in Arizona, it’s almost the permission for fall and all things pumpkin spice. Even if you aren’t a fan, you might find yourself bringing out your boots, your darker fall colors, or even just taking your coffee hot again in the morning. As an Arizona native, I can’t get enough of this time of year and if you take a quick glance at the town’s activity calendar, you’ll see why.

ISTED!

From the launch of Gilbert Family Nights earlier this month at the Gilbert Regional Park, to the Trick or Treat Bash at Freestone, to the return of the Gilbert Days Parade in November, all the way to the big, jolly guy in a red suit coming to the Gilbert Community Center in December – this time of year is all about enjoying family, friends, and community. Fall in real estate, however, typically signals a bit of a slowing in the Arizona market, which for 2021 just means that we are driving down the road at 75 miles an hour instead of the 120 miles an hour we were pushing the speedometer to in March. While the options for outdoor events seem absolutely endless this time of

year, I wouldn’t describe the options for housing in quite the same way – although we have hit almost the same inventory levels in Gilbert that we had in the fall of 2020. So why does it feel so different this year? We are actually seeing lower demand than we did in 2020 due in part to that jam-packed activity calendar, but also due to buyer fatigue with a racing real estate market, changing needs due to in-person school and the return to the office for many, and some simply feel

priced out of the market or challenged with loan limits that aren’t keeping up with property values. In truth, the weakened demand is being masked in part by our friends over at Opendoor, Offerpad, Zillow and Redfin who are on an active buying spree across the Valley making our 75 miles an hour feel like a solid 90. Much of the inventory that these iBuyers have accumulated over the last 60

see MINDY page RE5

SPO OTLIGHT home

JUST L

BESTOF

2021

Melanie Nemetz

Welcome to the highly sought after neighborhood of Cooley Station North in Gilbert.

Welcome to this beautiful home in Superstition Highlands in Gilbert AZ!

Call Melanie (480) 221-3034

See Page 4

Amy Jones Group

Listed for $365,000!

Our extensive, high quality marketing of your home combined with our thorough preparation of listing the home for sale, will help your home sell faster and for more money. Here is a sample of the marketing for our listings:

BESTOF

2021

◆ Home Staging Report by Interior Designer & Stager ◆ Professional video of home ◆ Professional photos of home ◆ Twilight photos ◆ Community photos ◆ Aerial drone video/photos ◆ 3D Interactive floor plan - Matterport www.fosteringre.com Each office is independently owned and operated ◆ Open house first weekend on the market

480.221.3034

See Page 4

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REAL ESTATE

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

Young buyers want to spend less on a home, Homie finds BY J. GRABER GSN Staff Writer

oday’s younger generations are willing to spend less overall and put less money down on a home than past generations, according to a recent survey by digital real estate agency Homie. Homie’s nationwide survey of 1,000 people aged 18-24 found Gen Zers are willing to spend $150,000 to $250,000 on a home. However, according to the National Association of Realtors, the median U.S. home price is over $360,000, meaning Gen Zers will need to spend well out of their comfort zone if they want to own a house. The survey also found 57 percent of Gen Z participants were willing to make a down-payment of only 3-5 percent while 53 percent of millennials are willing to put down less than 15 percent on a home and 27 percent of millennials favored a down-payment of less than 10 percent. Millennials are current-

ly the most active generation of home buyers, accounting for 37 percent of all homebuyers. “These findings showcase that we are on the right track in appealing to the next generation of home buyers through our combination of technology and a streamlined experience,” Homie CEO Johnny Hanna said. “Our mission is to change the way homes are bought and sold to make home ownership accessible for not only Gen Z, but for all generations to come.” Founded in Salt Lake City, Utah, in 2015, Homie claims to have helped clients buy and sell over $4 billion in homes. It calls itself a “disruptive real estate technology company,” featuring homebuying and selling via a full-service app. Prospective buyers can look up houses according to location and/or price on the app while also getting information on things like the school district serving the area. The app even allows perspective buyers to sort houses according to a total

monthly payment – figuring in things like home owner association fees, homeowner’s insurance and the mortgage payment into the equation, to give one lump sum of what the owner can expect to pay every month. “That’s a very popular new feature to the app,” said Homie Senior Vice President Dan Richards. Homie’s is more of a self-service model for the younger generation, which is more comfortable using technology, and older generations that are more familiar with the home buying or selling process and don’t necessarily need hand-holding. By maximizing the use of technology, Homie says it cuts down on fees and commissions. Its newest offering, Homie Cash, gives prospective home buyers an edge over other bidders by backing a pre-approval for buyers with cash so they can make cash offers on a home. When faced with a choice between cash and a typical offer, sellers are three times more likely to choose the cash of-

fer, Richards said. Other findings from Homie’s survey include: • Gen Zers are willing to use technology to buy and sell homes. The majority of participants (67 percent) would consider using an online service or an app to buy a home compared to 39 percent of millennials. • A lifestyle change was the number one reason for wanting to buy a home. Roughly 46 percent of participants said a new job, a growing family or relocating were the top reasons for wanting to purchase a home. • The overall company experience trumps everything for Gen Z. When searching for a real estate company to buy or sell with, 52 percent of participants said the overall experience from start to finish is the most important factor, followed by technology at 33 percent. Millennials set the trend as the generation to value experiences over things and Gen Z is following along this path.

REAL ESTATE

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

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Real estate investors must avoid these pitfalls BY PATRICK MACQUEEN GSN Guest Writer

wning real estate investment properties is often lucrative. But, real estate investments, whether vacation rentals, long-term rentals, or “fix and flips,” can be disastrous if the investor fails to utilize an entity and/or fails to utilize an entity in the correct fashion. Indeed, it is critical that investors structure their investment real estate, whether through an LLC, a limited partnership, or other entity, to minimize personal liability. And, no matter the structure, investors with entities must avoid the following mistakes: 1. Failing to transfer an existing property, via deed, to the real estate entity. Upon forming an entity, the real estate

investor must execute a deed transferring the real estate to their newly formed real estate entity. The deed must be recorded in the county in which the investment property is located. Failure to do so will cause the investor to remain personally liable for property related issues and largely defeats the purpose of creating the real estate entity. 2. Failing to insure the property under the name of the real estate entity. It is imperative to have written proof that the real estate entity is insured, so that an insurance company is not provided with an easy reason to deny coverage. 3. Failing to comply with entity maintenance obligations. It is critical that you maintain your real estate entity’s good standing and have written records outlining various actions taken by the real estate entity. Additionally, some entities require the filing of annual documents in order to maintain “good standing.”

395 Down from 407 Sales Last Month $598,316 Up from $582,193 Sales Last Month

For example, certain Arizona entities are not required to file annual reports; whereas, some entities must file them. Another maintenance issue that arises is the failure to keep accurate records, like segregating business banking activities and personal ones. These are not the only mistakes that we see. For instance, most real estate investors do not know that, upon transferring real estate to a real estate entity, the business must update its title insurance policy to reflect this new ownership. Failure to do so can result in a title

claim being denied. Another common and avoidable mistake is failing to execute all contracts in the name of the real estate entity. This, too, can defeat the entire purpose of creating a real estate entity. For questions about keeping your real estate entity in compliance with various laws, feel free to send me an email at patrick@mandglawgroup.com. Ahwatukee resident Patrick MacQueen and Ben Gottlieb founded MacQueen @ Gottlieb PLC, one of the state’s biggest real estate law firms.

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

243 Up from 240 Listings Last Month 512 Up from 423 Listings Under Contract Last Month 0.6

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REAL ESTATE

Welcome to this beautiful home in Superstition Highlands in Gilbert, Arizona

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

Realtors group donates lockboxes to Gilbert GSN NEWS STAFF

JUST LISTED! Welcome to this beautiful home in Superstition Highlands in Gilbert AZ. Offering 4 bedrooms + den + loft, pool, & 3 car garage, this home will check all your boxes. You are greeted in the dramatic foyer with high ceilings and staircase. Separate living room and dining rooms allow flexibility in the use of space. Den located downstairs has double doors. Spacious kitchen with granite counters and stainless steel appliances, and a walk in pantry. 4 bedrooms located upstairs + a loft. Master suite has grey cabinets, dual sinks, separate tub & shower, and large walk in closet. Two of the secondary upstairs bedrooms have walk in closets. Backyard offers a swimming pool, covered patio, grapefruit tree and lemon tree. All this and just four doors down from the community park.

Call Melanie today (480) 221-3034

Winner for The Tribune’s Best of Gilbert 2021 in the following categories: BESTOF 2021 Best Realtor: Melanie Nemetz Best Real Estate Team: Melanie Nemetz Team and we work for the agency that won Best Real Estate Agency: Keller Williams Integrity First

Melanie Nemetz

480.221.3034 • www.fosteringre.com Each ofﬁce is independently owned and operated

SPO OTLIGHT home

Cooley Station!

Welcome to the highly sought after neighborhood of Cooley Station North in Gilbert. This two story, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home features a downstairs great room floor plan with modern kitchen and stainless steel appliances, breakfast bar seating overlooking the full kitchen table and beautiful views of the expansive greenbelt outside. Upstairs you’ll find three bedrooms with a full guest bath, laundry room, and hallway niche perfect for an office or play space. WIth the downstairs half bath, two car attached garage and just steps to the community pool, park, and guest parking for the neighborhood - this one won’t last long. Take a stroll around Cooley Station North, pop over to the shopping and dining options in and around Gilbert - this is the perfect lock-and-leave property for you! Listed for $365,000

3659 E Leslie Drive, Gilbert, AZ 85296

(480) 250-3857 www.AmyJonesGroup.com

ecently, the West and SouthEast REALTORS of the Valley (WeSERV) SouthEast Valley Community Involvement leadership and committee volunteers donated 65 combination lockboxes to the Town of Gilbert and City of Chandler to support its Lockbox Program. The program helps fire and emergency personnel to enter a home during emergency situations without resorting to forced entry. “The West and SouthEast REALTORS of the Valley prides itself on giving back to the community, especially to members who are in need of assistance more than others,” said Roger Nelson, WeSERV CEO. “Through our lockbox program, our volunteers hope that they can continue to serve their community.”

The Secure Lock Box Program has been a bridge uniting Realtors with their communities’ needs. By providing mechanical lock boxes to our fire and police departments, emergency crews can be placed at the homes of the elderly and disabled, who may not be able to open the door. Thus, the program provides lifesaving comfort. The program changed the way fire and rescue personnel can enter a home so that they cause no damage as they gain access to save lives. “Above all people matter. When we have an opportunity to assist with safety of our community WeSERV believes in doing the right thing,” said Mandy Neat, 2021 WeSERV president. “Donating lock boxes that can make a difference in one’s life is a wonderful ability we have to en-

see LOCKBOXES page RE6

REAL ESTATE

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

MINDY from page re1

days has yet to be returned to the market. So, the expectation is that we’ll see a rise in inventory in the new year. Combined with the potential for these iBuyers to pull from the market at any given time, that could mean selling conditions could look very different at the turn of the new year. We often get asked if this is a sign that the bubble is going to burst. Our market is being driven by a lack of inventory and not demand –which is very different from the conditions that caused the bubble most are referring to when they ask about this. But there is some volatility that could be caused by a change in direction for the iBuyer community. With the rising interest rates, something we predicted would happen but couldn’t determine when we might see the change, and the expectation that prices will continue to rise another 3-5 percent by the first quarter, we’re having more and more conversations with buyers and sellers who took a little breather

This 5,249-square-foot house on East Robin Court in Gilbert frequently sold for $1.6 million, one of at least five seven-figure properties in the town that closed in recent weeks. The five-bedroom, six-bath single-story house, built in 2014, boasted numerous amenities, including a guest casita. (Special to GSN) from the market frenzy of quarters two and three and are ready to get back in the game. From a numbers’ perspective, Gilbert has 391 homes available on the market as compared to 355 last quarter and 655 two years ago. Our days on market is sitting at about 24 – which is up from

19 last quarter and down from 43 two years ago. But our month’s supply is at a solid two weeks as compared to twice that two years ago due to the still insatiable demand for housing in Gilbert. For many, the increase in inventory, the expected increase in interest rates and the com-

petition from iBuyers make this holiday season one of the best times to consider making a move that we’ve seen all year. We now have nine municipalities, including Gilbert, that have moved in favor of sellers in the last month. That means we’ve got a way to go before this lawn skeleton deflates. We need about twice the inventory we have on the market to even be close to a balanced market. Prices will continue to rise until we have too many houses for the people who want them and with how packed North Italia and Flower Child were at their fall opening, I don’t see that happening any time soon. Mindy Jones, a Gilbert Realtor and owner of the Amy Jones Group at Keller Williams Integrity First, can be reached at 480-250-3857. Mindy@AmyJonesGroup.com or AmyJonesGroup.com. Mindy Jones, a Gilbert Realtor and owner of the Amy Jones Group at Keller Williams Integrity First, can be reached at 480-250-3857. Mindy@AmyJonesGroup. com or AmyJonesGroup.com.

Buying or Selling a Home? Call Erik First!

1850 E Northrop Blvd #170 | Chandler AZ 85286 480-206-5592 cell | www.ErikGeislerRealtor.com Join me in supporting my charity partner,

CULTIVATE GOODNESS

Cultivate Goodness is a nonprofit organization that focuses on helping with needs in our community. We invite members of our community to get involved and wrap arms around those that could use a lift. We believe if everyone puts in their piece, whatever the size, it adds up to be a mountain of good.

Go to http://cultivate-goodness.org

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Serving the Valley, for over 15 Years!

Erik Geisler REALTOR® Your Real Estate Agent

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REAL ESTATE

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

Intel expansion likely to heat up housing market BY EUGENE QUACKENBUSH GSN Guest Writer

ntel, the U.S.based semiconductor chip manufacturer, recently announced big plans to invest and expand its footprint at its Chandler-based power plant. The company is dedicating $20 billion to construction for two new facilities, bringing over 21,000 job opportunities to the area. With this influx of jobs, many experts are saying the estimated three-year project will inevitably affect the residential real estate market within the East Valley. Despite Chandler’s population of just over 250,000 people, the city has only been averaging 350 active listings per month that are on the market for a short

Miss a previous Real Estate section?

23 days. Last month, the average home in Chandler was about $257 per square foot, bringing selling prices to around $564,000. Chandler has had a steady price increase within the last five years. However, with the projected job influx from Intel, the prices are predicted to increase rapidly. Currently, Chandler ranks #11 in terms of price per square foot – behind Paradise Valley and Scottsdale – but this demand could cause a spike. Chandler won’t be the only city in Arizona affected by this influx. The real estate market in the Phoenix Metro area is currently very competitive, and prices are at record highs. Valley home prices are up approximately 18 percent over this time last year, and Phoenix continues to be listed as one of the cities in the U.S. with the

highest year-over-year gains. The Valley is down to an extremely low inventory with just under 12,000 homes on the market. In a regular market, we usually have a six-month supply, so the market is drastically short of a typical resale inventory. This demand will eliminate the resale home infrastructure and will ultimately drive new residential construction sales. While these new homes will help alleviate part of the housing crisis, another issue arises: the lack of developable land. Gilbert and Chandler are quickly reaching build-out capacity, and in the surrounding area, Mesa is the only city left with land left to develop; in far east Mesa, there are large tracts of state land that could be used for residential development. With the inventory of homes for sale falling short, Intel will drive rental de-

Check out our digital copies at www.GilbertSunNews.com

mand, but the outlook on rentals is grim. Typical rental rates used to fall around $1.45 per square foot in 2020, but rental rates have shot up in recent months, reaching about $1.75 per square foot. Inventory has reached an all-time low, with limited rentals available in popular neighborhoods. Build-to-rent is the new trend in the Arizona market, and developers are constructing new single-family homes at a rapid pace, but the projects in the pipeline aren’t enough to support this uptick in demand. With Intel adding demand, the real estate market will likely remain hot. We saw homes in Chandler appreciate more than 25.3 percent year over year and with all these factors considered, it will likely continue to rise. Eugene Quackenbush is a Valley broker and founding Opendoor employee who helped create getyournest.com.

LOCKBOXES from page re4

sure people are at the forefront of everything we do.” Gilbert and Chandler residents can request a lockbox through a simple application process, and a volunteer visits the home to cover a few training tips. Volunteers remain in contact with members who receive a lockbox to make sure that they are still living at the residence, that all the contact information is valid, and whether they still need the lockbox. Information: southeast.weserve.realtor.

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HEALTH

Special Supplement to Gilbert Sun News

WELLNESS

Your Local Guide to Better Living

Fall 2021

Protecting against flu What veterans should know helps fight COVID-19 about bladder cancer STATEPOINT

STATEPOINT

ith students across the country returning to the classroom and adults returning to the workplace and gathering in person, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) predicts that the second flu season of the COVID-19 pandemic will be significantly more active than last year. But, the good news is that there are three simple steps everyone can take

Comprehensive Cancer Care In Your Neighborhood

to help protect themselves, their loved ones and communities: 1. Get the Flu Shot: Make sure to get the flu shot, and get it as early as possible. Most health care providers advise getting your flu vaccine in early fall. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), early results show that only about half (50% – 55%) of U.S. adults received the flu vaccine last year.

see FLU page 3

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he end of military service doesn’t always mean the end of hardships for those who served. As they age, many veterans can be faced with health challenges, including cancer. Each year, approximately 40,000 new cancer cases in veterans are reported, and bladder cancer is among the top five most frequently diagnosed types of cancer among patients treated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Bladder cancer can happen to anyone,

Medical Oncology & Hematology

see BLADDER page 2

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but there are some factors that make a person more likely to develop and be diagnosed with it. For example, the risk of bladder cancer increases with age and is more likely diagnosed in patients over the age of 55. Other risk factors include: smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, history of bladder infections or irritation, family history of bladder cancer and, for Vietnam veterans, the VA has added exposure to Agent Orange to that list.

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Located behind SunWest Credit Union on the Southeast corner of Southern and Gilbert

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Don’t AEP alone. Call us, we can help (480) 401-2547 “Your Medicare Store” is a DBA for CPT Insurance, LLC, an independent licensed insurance agency and is not affiliated with the federal government. Calling the number listed will direct you to a licensed insurance agent. For accommodations of persons with special needs call (480) 401-2547, TTY 711

BLADDER

Health & Wellness

from page 1

Understanding an individual’s potential risk, as well as the signs and symptoms of bladder cancer is essential, as early detection can expand treatment options and improve outcomes. The most common sign of bladder cancer is painless-but-visible blood in the urine. However, other signs to watch for include: pain during urination, changes in the frequency or ability to urinate and lower back pain on one side of the body. A cystoscopy is a standard medical procedure that allows a urologist to look directly into the bladder for suspicious tissue. Historically, cystoscopies have been done using white light. However, there is also a procedure called blue light cystoscopy that uses both white and blue light to create an enhanced view. veterans and others who suspect that they may have bladder cancer should ask a urologist for more information on blue light cystoscopy. To learn more, rebrand.ly/About-Cystoscopy.

Fall 2021

Exercise crucial for a healthy lifestyle BY LIFEQUEST PHYSICAL MEDICINE

egular exercise is proven to reduce stress levels, improve sleep quality, boost your immune system, and prevent weight gain. We’ve provided some high- and low-impact activities as well as a few tips to help you get your body moving while following the CDC guidelines. High impact activities are exercises that often require both feet to come off the ground while working out. These activities are called high impact because once your body leaves the ground, gravity forces you back down. This causes your feet to hit the ground with pressure often similar to carrying twice your bodyweight. Benefits include increased heart rate, improved bone density and cardiovascular strength, better balance and stability, and increased stamina. High impact activities may not be ide-

al for those who have pre-existing injuries, joint conditions or excess weight. This doesn’t mean that people with these conditions should not do high-impact activities, but that they should be added into exercise routines in moderation. Incorporating a few high impact activities into a low impact routine is a great starting point that will help strengthen your body and burn calories. Some high impact workouts include: burpees, jogging, jumping jacks, jumping lunges. Low-impact activities are exercises that often keep at least one foot on the ground while working out. Joints absorb far less impact, making them ideal for pre-existing injuries, chronic inflammatory conditions or beginners. Don’t be fooled by the term “low-impact.” You can still achieve an excellent workout with low impact activities, but you may have to work a little harder. Some low impact exercises include: bi-

cycling, exercises on elliptical machines, hiking, pilates, rowing, swimming, walking, weightlifting and yoga. By adding a mixture of low and high impact activities to your workout routine, you will be able to strengthen various muscle groups and provide your joints with rest when needed. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to exercising. The key is to sit less and move more so that you can live a healthy life. For those who are missing a gym, consider taking advantage of virtual classes or looking up some online exercise routines. Though it is recommended that adults get at least 35-60 minutes of exercise a day, that doesn’t mean it has to be all at once. Consider breaking up your workouts so that you can fit them into your schedule better. Information: lifequestarizona.com

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From there she went on to earn her masters degree in family nurse practitioner from South University and finally her doctorate in nursing practice from Graceland University. Her passion is helping patients achieve their optimal level of health and wellness. While treating acute and chronic illnesses and injuries, she provides the care and compassion necessary to treat patients of all ages and from all walks of life. She is bilingual, Spanish speaking and enjoys spending time getting to know her patients while providing the most recent evidence-based treatments to all who enter her clinic. Using both modern Western and holistic medicine, Lutz works with patients to personalize their treatment plan to meet their individual needs. Information: Lutzgethealthy.com

Fall 2021

Health & Wellness

Simplify your dental shopping experience

hether you’re shopping in the dental aisle or scrolling online, it may be surprising to see just how many products there are to choose from. However, dentists have a simple tip to pick the right ones for you and your family – check for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. The 90th anniversary of the ADA Seal of Acceptance program is an excellent opportunity to learn more about its im-

portance. Although initiated in 1931, dentists and consumers still recognize it as the gold standard for evaluating safety and efficacy of dental products. The ADA Seal is backed by science and every product carrying the Seal has been scientifically evaluated by independent dental experts to be safe and effective. To earn the Seal, companies are often asked to meet higher standards than what’s required by law. Products that don’t meet these tough guidelines don’t get the Seal, period.

What many people don’t know is that the Seal isn’t just found on toothpaste and toothbrushes. From water filters in the kitchen to mouthguards on the playing field, products that promote healthy smiles go beyond the bathroom sink. Check that all these items carry the Seal, as well as on any newer dental products you purchase, such as sugarless gum, mouth rinse, whitening products, denture products and interdental cleaners like floss, water flossers and floss picks. Today, more than 400 over-the-count-

er dental products carry the seal and these products can be used with assurance that they have demonstrated safety and efficacy according to ADA requirements. At MouthHealthy.org/Seal you will find downloadable shopping lists for adults and children, along with other essential dental tips and resources.

The rate of vaccination among children dropped from 62% in 2019-2020 to 58% in 2020-2021, which could be attributed to remote learning and greater isolation than in previous years. Everyone in the household should get the flu vaccine. With COVID-19 variants making people sicker than previously

seen, getting the vaccine and protecting yourself from the flu can keep your immune system healthy. Some studies have even found that individuals who contracted COVID-19 but received the flu shot were less likely to require treatment from an emergency department or intensive care unit.

2. Practice healthy hygiene: Continue to practice healthy hygiene habits like washing your hands regularly and wearing a mask when appropriate. This means wearing a mask while shopping indoors, or attending an indoor event with a crowd of people. 3. Stay home when sick: Stay home

and avoid contact with others if you aren’t feeling well. Many of the symptoms of COVID-19 and flu look alike – including fever, cough, muscle aches and sore throat – and knowing the difference can only be done through testing. Get tested if you develop any of these symptoms to rule out COVID-19.

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PAD Impacts Everyday Living PHOENIX –The need to stop and rest after walking a short distance because of a leg cramps, numbness in the feet or leg pain could be more than normal aging or adjusting to increased activity. While the inclination may be to think it’s just part of getting older, these symptoms may be caused by vascular insufficiency. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is one of those conditions that is sometimes easy to dismiss. “If you find yourself needing to rest because your leg cramps when you walk even a short distance, or at night you need to stand up to relieve a cramp in your foot, that’s your legs and feet telling you they need help,” says Dr. Joel Rainwater, chief medical officer of Comprehensive Integrated Care (CiC). “PAD is often called the silent killer because you may have it and not even know,” says Rainwater. Its diagnosis is often delayed and not identified until it has progressed.

build-up occurs gradually and hardens into plaque inside the artery restricting blood flow. Without an adequate blood supply, the body can’t get the oxygen and nutrients it needs to maintain healthy legs and feet. “It’s not normal to have difficulty walking to your mailbox, it’s not normal to have constant leg pain or cramping,” says Rainwater. It’s also interesting to note, that the symptoms of PAD and neuropathy are very similar. They include difficulty walking without taking a break, burning, tingling, numbness and/or pain. “When I see a patient who has been told they have neuropathy and they’ve been maximized on medication that’s not working, I know there may be something else causing it and one of the big, notorious offenders in that scenario is PAD,” says Rainwater. PAD is caused by the buildup of fatty material inside the arteries. This

“This is something we can fix,” explains Rainwater. “The good news about PAD, is that there’s hope. There is treatment and it’s excellent, it’s been one of the biggest success stories in all of medicine.” Patients are able to get back on their feet and everyday living with almost no downtime, no stitches and no overnight hospital stay. Medicare as well as most insurance plans will cover treatment. “I’m here to tell patients that there are options, all they have to do is ask. They might have to ask a different doctor, but they don’t have to live with the idea that they’re going to suffer for the rest of their life,” says Rainwater. His best advice, “Go look for answers.”

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Do you have difficulty walking without taking a break? Do you experience pain, numbness, or cramping in your feet or legs? Is you neuropathy treatment not making symptoms go away?

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Fall 2021

Heel Pain Is on The Rise Restaurants are busy, baseball stadiums are welcoming fans, and this summer is slated to be one of the busiest travel seasons ever. “Getting back to a normal lifestyle can be a shock to your feet,” says Dr. Kerry Zang, podiatric medical director of CiC Foot & Ankle. More than two million Americans suffer from plantar fasciitis, a sharp, stabbing, sometimes burning pain in the heel or arch of the foot. It’s anticipated this number will rise as activity levels increase. It typically hurts when first getting up, may lessen after a few steps but always returns. In the past, a cortisone injection was given. “Cortisone manages the pain, but it doesn’t address what’s causing the pain,” says Zang. Now, new treatment options focus on resolving the condition, not just the treating the symptoms. “Regenerative medicine is one of the most promising ways to deal with pain, because it triggers the body to heal,” he explains. “One form is prolotherapy, which tricks the body into thinking it was injured and starts the healing process.” The FDA recently approved cold laser therapy for plantar fasciitis. “Laser treatment helps reduce pain, increase circulation and attracts the patient’s own growth factors to the area, all of which promote healing,” says Zang. If left untreated pain can become chronic, but the good news is there are still options. “Growth factor therapy jump starts and maintains regeneration of new tissues,” says Zang. “It’s all about healing.”

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

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ACP football benefitting from coach Myron Blueford BY SAM STERN GSN Contributing Writer

n sports, there are an abundance of obstacles and barriers that stand in the way of any team or player. For the Arizona College Prep football team, head coach Myron Blueford has built a program full of athletes and coaches that are simply not afraid of the moment. When thinking of football coaches at any level, a loud leader blowing their ear-splitting whistle immediately comes to mind. Blueford on the other hand has more of a mellow coaching style. He not only leads by example as a silent leader, but he strives to build personal relationships with his players. “Yeah, it’s the kind of quiet confidence that I like, and we just work you know,” Blueford said. “I think the boys embrace that.” It is no secret this team has already been through so much, yet they continue to grow and impress. While trying to implement a system for his youthful roster, he also had to balance bringing in six new transfers who would not be able to play until Week 6. To open up the season, the Knights lost their first two games in a wide margin against Sabino and River Valley. As with any team that is learning how to win as one unit, losses are just a part of the process. He has instilled this locked in mentality in each of his players, and they just keep on working. They went on an impressive four-game winning streak, but their path to winning all those games was far from easy. On Sept. 24, Arizona College Prep matched up against Coronado High School, and a dominant 56-6 win over the Dons was overshadowed by a surprising ejection of Blueford. After questioning a call in the second half of the game, he was not only tossed, but he was also suspended for the Knights’ following game. That game was

Arizona College Prep head football coach Myron Blueford has made an impact not only on his team but the lives of his players, too. They cherish him for that and will forever have trust in him as a coach and mentor. (GSN File Photo) one that had a huge red circle on Blueford’s calendar heading into the season. Moon Valley High School held a special meaning to Blueford, and it was the first major coaching opportunity he had ever received. His childhood friend, Sam Jacobs, now the head coach of Sunnyslope High School, offered Blueford a coaching job at Moon Valley. Soon after joining the program, he became the defensive coordinator, and the two would end up putting the team on an upward trajectory. “We literally rebuilt that program,” Blueford said. “When we got there, there were like 16 kids in spring ball. And by the time I left, five years later, we got like 60 to 70 kids in spring ball.” The matchup against the Rockets on Oct. 1 would have been the first time he had coached against his former team since leaving to take over at Arizona College Prep. As with any coach that misses such a personal game, the raw emotion of not being able to go to battle with your players on such a meaningful night was devastating. This was also their first game going up against a talented 4A high school this season. Unsurprisingly, they had a chip on their shoulder, and they went out and fought till the finish. A goal

ACP quarterback Jayden Diaz has built a special bond with Blueford both on and off the field. He credited Blueford for his ability to grow up mentally since joining the program. (GSN File Photo)

line stop by the defense sealed a captivating and inspiring win. Chris Semore, the team’s defensive coordinator, took over as head coach in Blueford’s absence. The positivity and excitement beamed out of Semore during the post-game huddle, and the confidence each member of the program displayed was moving. The most striking moment was when Semore put coach Blueford on speaker phone, and he voiced his excitement and love for each and every one of his players. “We knew it was a big deal for Blue, and we knew it meant a lot to him,” Semore said. “We really wanted to get back to ACP with a win for him.” Blueford has had an impact in each of these player’s’ lives, and he continues to create a solid foundation of being a true family atmosphere. Through wins and losses, the common goal of hard work and improvement always remains the same. Jayden Diaz, star quarterback for the Knights, has had a special connection with Blueford throughout his time at Arizona College Prep. This season he has personally been positively influenced by his coach in every facet of life. On and off the field he knows he has a mentor who wants the best for not only himself, but the rest of

his teammates and coaches. “All around Coach Blue is an extraordinary leader to everyone around the program and even outside of it and we all love him and wouldn’t want anyone else out there battling with us,” Diaz said. “He just puts on so much work for us and he really brings our team together in every aspect of the game and life.” Blueford has turned this program into one that players want to be a part of. Players gravitate toward his coaching style, and he purposefully brings on athletes and coaches who share a quieter, but competitive demeanor. Humble. Driven. Competitive. Loving. Blueford continues to encompass the values of a true leader. The future of the program is looking bright, and as long as Blueford is at the helm, he will continue to be a dialed-in coach ready to make his “kids” better people. “I’m intentional with it, I’m intentional with the coaches that I hire,” Blueford said. “I love it, because like I said, it’s not a myth that teams develop the personality of their coaches. “I love the demeanor that they always have. It’s just about the next play. Keep working. The results are going to be the results.”

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Chance of lifetime to see Mesa Arizona Temple GETOUT STAFF

embers of the general public will not likely have another chance to see the interior of the Mesa Ari-

zona Temple in their lifetime – or possibly even their grandchildren’s might not once it is rededicated on Dec. 12. So between now and Nov. 20 – except on Sundays – people will be able to tour Mesa’s sig-

nature landmark, which has been closed since May 2018 for a major renovation. It’s the second renovation since the temple was dedicated in 1927 and was an extensive one. The Mesa Arizona Temple

is one of seven Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints temples in the state and Arizona’s first. Tour reservations can be made at mesatemple.org/open-house. Some of the tour stops are featured here.

2 5

1) This is one of several Instruction Rooms, where worshippers learn about God’s creation and the purpose of life. Unique to the Mesa Arizona Temple, patrons advance room to room. Each instruction room is slightly elevated above the previous, symbolizing progression to heaven. 2) The baptistery is used to perform proxy baptisms for deceased ancestors who passed on without the ordinance of baptism. The font in the Mesa Arizona Temple is clad with rare terracotta tiles and rests on 12 terracotta oxen representing the 12 tribes of Israel. 3) The sealing room is where families are joined together for time and eternity. A replica crystalline chandelier, fluted pilasters and inlaid wood-backed chairs are in the Colonial Revival style popular in the 1920s. The Mesa Arizona Temple has six sealing rooms of different sizes that can accommodate 17 to 90 guests. 4) The Grand Staircase was part of the original temple and has been restored. 5) Every feature in the temple has been restored. 6) At the Recommend Desk, patrons present upon entering the temple a card showing they are a member in good standing of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Outside the temple, the grounds have been renovated and 300 trees have been planted. A new stage and technology will significantly enhance the presentation of the annual Easter Pageant as well as choral groups that sing during the equally elaborate Christmas lights show. (Courtesy of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints )

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

King Crossword

Answers on page 9

ACROSS

With JAN D’ATRI GetOut Contributor

Whether a dessert or dinner side, this pie satisfies

t’s the time of year when we start thinking about the comfort foods of the harvest season; squash, pumpkins and, of course, sweet potatoes.Time to pull out my recipe for Rustic Southern Sweet Potato Pie. In the Southern kitchens of America, home-bakers just called it potato pie because, according to my 1965 Farm Journal’s Complete Pie Cookbook, folks south of the Mason Dixon Line refer to sweet potatoes as simply “potatoes” and the white variety they call “Irish” potatoes. In any case sweet potato pie is an American favorite and the soul food sister of our beloved pumpkin pie. Not necessarily associated with a holiday like Thanksgiving though, you can gobble up sweet potato pie anytime of the year, especially now when the yams and sweet potatoes

For the filling:

2 large yams 2 large sweet potatoes 2 cups sugar 1 stick of butter, melted 1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon fresh ground nutmeg ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pure vanilla

Directions:

In a large pot, boil yams and potatoes for about one hour or until tender. Drain water and let potatoes cool. When cool enough to handle, peel skins off and place yams and potatoes in a ricer or potato masher. In a bowl, combine yams and potatoes, sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt and vanilla. Mix well.

For the dough:

3 tablespoons butter 3 cups flour ½ teaspoon salt ¼ cup sugar 1/3 cup olive oil 1 teaspoon pure vanilla 1 cup whole milk 1 egg 1 tablespoon milk

are in peak season. A good old-fashioned rustic southern sweet potato pie is rich and luscious enough to be a gut-busting dessert, but it can also be a full-bodied side to a main entrée. So dive in! It’s a sweet and soulful October dish and as easy as pie to whip together.

Directions for dough:

Preheat oven to 375. In a small saucepan, heat the butter until it turns golden brown. When done, it should have a nutty-like aroma. Remove from heat and let cool. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt and sugar, mixing well. In another bowl, whisk together olive oil, vanilla, milk and melted butter. Pour into the flour mixture and mix with a fork. Dough should hold together. If too crumbly, add ice water, a tablespoon at a time. Cover and let sit for about a half an hour.

To Assemble:

On a floured surface, roll out dough to fit a 14” round or rectangular baking pan. Place dough on pan. Spoon filling into the center of the dough, leaving about a 1 ½ inch border. Gently fold the sides of the dough up and over some of the filling. Make an egg wash by mixing the egg and tablespoon of milk together with a fork. Coat the bread with egg wash using a pastry brush. Sprinkle with sugar. Bake for about 45 minutes or until crust is golden brown. Serve alone or with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

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GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

Life Events James Ellsworth Shaner

Passed away on August 26, 2021 peacefully in his home. He was born June 1, 1925 in Quincy Township, Michigan. On May 10, 1947, he married Beatrice Elaine Seely and in 1980, moved to Arizona. He is survived by his sister Betty From (Raymond), three sons, Dennis, James (Jean) and Patrick (Mary Lu) and daughter, Lori; four grandchildren (Ashley, Alyson, Nathaniel, and Danielle), five great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He served in the United States Navy in the Pacific Theater during World War II. His ship, the USS LSM70 carried Marines and four tanks to the Battle of Iwo Jima. He was a lifetime, knighted member with the Free Masons and was a member of the Lions Club for over 2 decades. He held a private pilots license with Instrument Rating to fly his Piper Cub. James was an industrial electrician for 60 years. When he retired he enjoyed his Ham radio, woodworking and watching the Diamondbacks with Beatrice who preceded him in death December, 13 2019 after 72 years of marriage.

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Ramona Verna Syverson Ramona Verna Syverson entered her heavenly home and eternal life on October 5, 2021 (105), with family by her side. Ramona was born in Raven, Nebraska on August 19, 1916, to George and Alice Birdsall. Graduate from Centerville, South Dakota High School in 1935. Married Elwyn (Doc) Syverson on January 28, 1938. Ramona and Doc owned drug stores in South Dakota and Minnesota, where they worked side-by-side for 37 years. They also lived in California where Doc was employed by a pharmaceutical company for several years. Ramona was very active in Girl Scouts resulting in 39 years as a leader and active board member of Girls Scouts of Minnesota. She received the highest honor in Girl Scouts recognizing her 52 total years of service. Member of Eastern Star since 1953. Ramona traveled the world, loving every mile of every road trip and every wave of every cruise – totally more than 15 cruises. She loved to snowmobile and fly with Doc in their plane. She always

said, “we worked hard and played hard.” Ramona was loved by all. When she touched your heart that warmth remained forever. She was a caring and compassionate lady being helpful to others and putting others first before herself. She possessed that positive attitude and smile at all times; never a complaint could be heard, but always there to provide mentoring and guidance to young and old alike. She was a loving daughter, sister, wife, aunt, cousin, and a true “forever” friend to many. Ramona was preceded in death by her husband Elwyn (Doc) Syverson in 1977, brother Harold Birdsall in 1977, sister Clara (Nelson) Puck in 1992, sister-in-law Nada Birdsall in 2004, and nephew Elwyn Birdsall in 2021, and close friend Carl Dahlberg. She is survived by her niece Pamela (Birdsall) Monroe and Doc’s niece Mary (Jorgensen) Anderson, many great/great-great nieces, nephew, along with her god-daughter Jill (Frank) Gentry, dear friends Tom & Karen Thomas, and many more friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Ramona’s memory to the American Heart Association www.heart.org or Shriners www.donate.lovetotherescue.org Please visit her memorial page at www. williamsthomasfuneralhome.com. For further information WILLIAMS-THOMAS WESTAREA 352-376-7556.

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CLASSIFIEDS and LEGALS Deadline: Thursday at 10am for Sunday 480-898-6465 Email Your Ad: class@times publications.com

gilbertsunnews.com

Concrete & Masonry

Block Fence * Gates

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

YOU’LL LIKE US - THE BEST! Bonded/Insured • ROC #289252

Air Conditioning/Heating

480-405-7588 Appliance Repairs

Appliance Repair Now

Employment General

If It’s Broken, We Can Fix It!

BESTOF

2021

ENGINEERS PayPal, Inc. has career opportunities in Scottsdale, AZ for Engineers including: Software, QA, Web Development, Software Developers, Database, Data Warehouse, Data Architect, User Interface, Information Security, System Integration, Release, Network and Cloud. Positions include: junior, senior, and management positions. Multiple positions/openings. Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. Please mail resume w/ ref. to: Req. No.: SWE300AZ at: ATTN: HR, Cube 10.3.561, PayPal, Inc. HQ, 2211 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95131. EOE

Family Owned & Operated

480-671-0833

Why Rent The Lot When

Gawthorp & Associates Realty

Friday October 22nd, Saturday October 23rd & Sunday October 24th 7am-3pm

Cleaning Services

Three Phase Mechanical

THE LINKS ESTATES YOU CAN OWN THE LAND And Own Your New Home

Air Conditioning/Heating

FALL TUNE-UP SPECIAL!

REG. $99.

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

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SINCE 1982 ROC #C39-312643

We offer Big Savings and Great Financing!

Some restrictions apply. See website for additional information. Special rebates and financing offers are valid on qualifying equipment and pre-approved credit. Offers expire 12/31/2021.

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Carpet Cleaning

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

Garage/Doors

Home Improvement

Handyman

HOME REMODELING East Valley/ LLC REPAIRS & Ahwatukee CUSTOM Broken Springs INTERIOR Replaced PAINTING • Drywall Repair • Electrical Repair Nights/Weekends Move a wall; turn a • Plumbing Repair • Bathroom Bonded/Insured door into a window. 480-251-8610 Remodeling • Dry rot and termite From small jobs and Not a licensed contractor • Home Renovations damage repair repairs to room additions, I do it all. GENERAL CONTRACTOR / HANDYMAN SERVICES Precision interior SERVING THE ENTIRE VALLEY Glass/Mirror painting, carpentry, All Estimates are Free • Call: drywall, tile, Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! GLASS, MIRRORS, www.husbands2go.com windows, doors, Painting • Flooring • Electrical Licensed, Bonded &•Insured • ROC#317949 Plumbing Drywall • Carpentry skylights, electrical, SHOWER DOORS Decks • Tile • More! fans, plumbing and Family Owned with 50 Ask me about FREE water testing! Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! more. years' EXPERIENCE. the Spot for ALL•Your Handyman Needs! ✔ Painting All tradesMarks done by Painting Flooring • Electrical Shower and tub enclos“No Job Too ✔Small Flooring hands-on Painting • Flooring • Electrical Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry ures, Framed, FrameMan!” General Contractor. Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry ✔ Electrical Decks • Tile • More! less or Custom Doors, 1999 e Sinc k Friendly, artistic, Quality Wor Decks •Affo Tile • More! We also install insurdable, ✔ Plumbing 2010, 2011 2012, 2013, intelligent, honest and lated glass, mirrored 2014 ✔ Drywall Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 affordable. Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor “No Job closet doors, window ✔ Carpentry 40 years' experience. glass, mirrors, patio Too Small Marks the Spot for“No Job Too ALL Your Handyman Needs! ✔ Decks Call Ron Wolfgang doors, glass table proPainting • Flooring • Electrical Small Man!” “No Job Too Man!” ✔ Tile Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry Pleas text or leave tectors. If it’s glass, we Small Man!” Decks • Tile • More! message ✔ Kitchens can help you. QUALSince 1999 rk Wo y alit Qu e, Cell 602-628-9653 abl Afford ✔ Bathrooms ITY SERVICE at ComBSMALLMAN@Q.COM 2010, 2011 9 ce 199 Wolfgang able, Quality Work Sin 2012, “No 2013, Job Too Afford petitive Prices. And More! 2010, 2011 Small Man!” 2014 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 Construction Inc. 2012, 2013, FREE Estimates 2014 Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor 1999 Since Ahwatukee Resident / References Licensed & Bonded Affordable, Quality Work 2010, 2011 WESLEY'S GLASS & MIRROR Ahwatukee 2012, 2013, Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor Insured / Not aCall Licensed Contractor 2014 ROC 124934 Bruce at 602.670.7038 GARAGE DOOR SERVICE

Landscape/Maintenance Juan Hernandez

Juan Hernandez

SPRINKLER

TREE

Drip/Install/Repair & Tune ups!

TRIMMING

Not a licensed contractor

25 Years exp (480) 720-3840

25 years exp. Call Now (480) 720-3840

Irrigation

520.508.1420

Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038

wesleysglass.com SERVICING THE ENTIRE VALLEY Call 480-306-5113

Call 480-898-6465

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT & PAINTING

NTY

5-YEAR WARRA

Interior/Exterior Painting 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

480.654.5600

Dunn Edwards Quality Paint Small Stucco/Drywall Repairs

azirrigation.com

We Are State Licensed and Reliable!

Cutting Edge LLC • ROC 281671

Free Estimates • Senior Discounts

Landscape/Maintenance

Irrigation Repair Services Inc. Licensed • Bonded • Insured

JOSE DOMINGUEZ DRYWALL & PAINTING House Painting, Drywall, Intall Doors, Baseboards, Crown Molding Reliable, Dependable, Honest! QUICK RESPONSE TO YOUR CALL!

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

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

• Old Paint & Chems.

CALL US TODAY!

• Yard Waste

480.721.4146

• Concrete Slab

www.irsaz.com

• Remodeling Debris • Old Tires

ROC# 256752

15 Years Experience • Free Estimates

480.266.4589

Insured/Bonded Free Estimates

Not a licensed contractor.

HONESTY • INTEGRITY • QUALITY

• Serving Arizona Since 2005 •

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

ALL RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL Call Jim Endres 480.282.7932 Over 28 Years Experience • ROC #246019 Bonded/Insured

480-338-4011

ROC#309706

East Valley PAINTERS Voted #1 Paint Interior & Exterior • Drywall Repair Light Carpentry • Power Washing • Textures Matched Popcorn Removal • Pool Deck Coatings Garage Floor Coatings • Color Consulting

10% OFF

We Beat Competitors Prices & Quality

josedominguez0224@gmail.com Electrical Services

Interior & Exterior Residential/Commercial Free Estimates Drywall Repairs Senior Discounts References Available

(602) 502-1655

Hauling

Drywall

PAINTING

— Call Jason —

Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor

MISSED THE DEADLINE? Place your ad online!

Painting

Home Improvement

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

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

Free Estimates with Pride & Prompt Service!

ALL Pro

Free Estimates! Home of the 10-Year Warranty!

Prepare for Winter Season!

www.eastvalleypainters.com

T R E E

S E R V I C E

L L C

LANDSCAPING, TREES & MAINTENANCE

Tree Trimming • Tree Removal Stump Grinding Storm Damage • Bushes/Shrubs Yard Clean-up Commercial and Residential PMB 435 • 2733 N. Power Rd. • Suite 102 • Mesa dennis@allprotrees.com

480-354-5802

480-688-4770

Family Owned & Operated Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131

Now Accepting all major credit cards

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

HOME FOR RENT? Place it here!

Plumbing 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

Rooﬁng

Public Notices OUT WITH THE OLD, CHIP RETURN

81% of our readers, read the Classifieds!

480-699-2754 • info@monsoonroofinginc.com

Call Classifieds 480-898-6465

Tiles, shingles, flat, repairs & new work Free Estimates • Ahwatukee Resident Over 30 yrs. Experience

480-706-1453

HYDROJETTING

Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099

480-477-8842

SEWER CABLE COMPREHENSIVE, FULL-SERVICE PLUMBING COMPANY

10% Discount for Ahwatukee Residents 100% NO Leak Guarantee Re-Roof & Roofing Repairs Tile, Shingles & Flat Roof Licensed – Bonded – Insured – ROC187561

Window Cleaning

BOOK ONLINE! STATE48DRAINS.COM 20+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED ROC 3297740

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

10% OFF

• • • •

602-471-2346

PHILLIPS

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

ROOFING LLC

Bonded/Insured • ROC #223709

Family Owned and Operated 43 Years Experience in Arizona

480-405-7099 Your Ad can go ONLINE ANY Day! Call to place your ad online! Classifieds 480-898-6465

COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL

623-873-1626 Free Estimates Monday through Saturday

Pool Service / Repair

Juan Hernandez

Pavers • Concrete • Water Features • Sprinkler Repair

PPebbleOcracking, O L Plaster R Epeeling, P ARebar IR showing, Pool Light out? I CAN HELP!

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

Call Juan at

480-720-3840 Not a licensed contractor.

Professional service since 1995

FREE ESTIMATES

Tiles & Shingles sunlandroofingllc@gmail.com Installation Repair Re-Roofing

Licensed 2006 ROC 223367 Bonded Insured

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

130 - One Story 170 - Two Story

$ Bonded & Insured

Includes in & out up to 30 Panes

SUN SCREENS CLEANED $3 EACH

480-584-1643

If you have Table Games Casino chips received before July 7, 2021, please redeem them at the Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino cashier cage no later than March 31, 2022 for a full refund. Disclaimer: Any discontinued Table Games chips not returned by March 31, 2022 will be void and hold no cash value. Redemption must take place at the Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino cashier cage in person. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino is not responsible for any unreturned Table Games chips.

MonsoonRooﬁngInc.com

Serving All Types Clean, Prompt, Friendly and Professional Service of Roofing:

RETURN YOUR TABLE GAMES CASINO CHIPS AT HARRAH’S AK-CHIN BEFORE THEY EXPIRE!

NOTICE TO CREDIT-ORS In the Matter of the Estate of James Charles Hess, Deceased NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed as the Personal Representative of this estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the ﬁrst publication of this Notice or the claims will be forever barred. Claims must be presented by delivering or mailing a written statement of the claim to undersigned Personal Representative at 10056 E. Keats Ave, Mesa Az 85209. DATED this 06, day of October 2021 /s/Kristina Romero PUBLISHED: East Valley Tribune, dates of the October 17,24,31, 2021 / #42024

Attention to detail and tidy in your home.

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

Rooﬁng

aOver 30 Years of Experience

aFamily Operated by 3 Generations of Roofers! Premier Tile, Shingle & Foam Roofer!

Spencer 4 HIRE ROOFING Valley Wide Service

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

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

Homes For Rent AISO PÚBLICO PUBLIC NOTICE Public Housing Waitlist Opening Close Date Extended Apply from Thursday, 12 p.m. (MST) Oct. 7, 2021. Through Thursday, 12 p.m. (MST) Oct. 21, 2021 The City of Chandler has extended the deadline to submit pre-applications for the Public Housing Waitlist. The new close date is Thursday, 12 p.m. (MST). Oct. 21, 2021. From the pool of all pre-applications submitted, 2,000 pre-applications will be placed on the waitlist by random selection (“lottery”). Pre-applications not selected will be notiﬁed by mail and will have to reapply for assistance when applications are open again. What is a pre-application? A “pre-application” is a short application that gets you on the waitlist for Public Housing. You will only be asked to ﬁll out a (full) “application” for Public Housing when you get near the top of the waitlist in the future. Who can pre-apply? All families and individuals can pre-apply.

Se Extiende la Fecha de Cierre de la Apertura e la Lista de Espera para la Vivienda Pública Haga su solicitud del jueves 7 de octubre de 2021 a las 12 p.m. (tiempo estándar de la montaña) Al jueves 21 de octubre de 2021 a las 12 p.m. (tiempo estándar de la montaña) La Ciudad de Chandler ha extendido la fecha límite para presentar las pre-solicitudes para la Lista de Espera para la Vivienda Pública. La nueva fecha de cierre para las solicitudes es el jueves 21 de octubre de 2021 a las 12 p.m. (tiempo estándar de la montaña). Del grupo de todas las pre-solicitudes que se presenten, 2,000 pre-solicitudes se colocarán en la lista de espera por medio de una selección aleatoria (“lotería”). Las pre-solicitudes que no sean seleccionadas serán notiﬁcadas por correo postal y tendrán que volver a solicitar la asistencia cuando las solicitudes se vuelvan a abrir. ¿Qué es una pre-solicitud? Una “pre-solicitud” es una solicitud corta que le incluye en la lista de espera para la Vivienda Pública. A usted sólo se le pedirá que llene una “solicitud” (completa) para Vivienda Pública cuando se acerque a la parte superior de la lista de espera en el futuro. ¿Quién puede hacer una pre-solicitud? Todas las familias y los individuos pueden presentar una pre-solicitud.

Income Requirements: Total Household Income must not exceed the following: What information will you need to pre-apply? • The first, middle, and last names of all household members. • The birth dates of all household members. • The combined total gross annual income (from all sources) of all household members. How can you pre-apply? Pre-applications will be available and accepted online, by email, by fax, by telephone, and pre-applications are available on the door near the Drop Box located at 226 S. Washington St., Chandler, AZ 85225. How can you submit a completed pre-application on line? Go to chandleraz.gov/applyforhousing. If you pre-apply online, you must complete both steps of the online process: • Create an account. Submit a completed pre-application. How can you obtain a paper pre-application? Request a paper pre-application (include your mailing address in your request): • By email at: chandler.housing@chandleraz.gov • By telephone at: 480-782-3200 or 7-1-1 TTY options: English 800-367-8939 / Español 800-842-2088 • By fax at: 480-782-3220 • Pre-applications are available on the door in the parking garage located at 226 S. Washington St., Chandler, AZ 85225 • PDF Form: chandleraz.gov/affordablehousing How can you submit a paper pre-application? • By email to: chandler.housing@chandleraz.gov If you email your pre-application to us, it must be received no later than 12 p.m. on Oct. 21, 2021. • By fax to: 480-782-3220 If you fax your pre-application to us, it must be received no later than 12 p.m. on Oct. 21, 2021. • By mail to: City of Chandler Housing and Redevelopment Division Mail Stop 101, P.O. Box 4008, Chandler, AZ 85344 If you mail your pre-application to us, it must be postmarked on or before Oct. 21, 2021. • Pre-applications can be put in the Drop Box located at 226 S. Washington St., Chandler, AZ 85225. If you bring your pre-application to our office, it must be in the Drop Box no later than 12 p.m. on Oct. 21, 2021 IMPORTANT: Your pre-application must be completed in full, or it will not be accepted, and you will not be placed on the waitlist. How will pre-applications be placed on the waitlist? From the pool of all pre-applications submitted, 2,000 Pre-applications will be placed on the waitlist by random lottery by preference. Pre-applicants not selected will have to reapply for assistance when applications are open again. For more information on the City’s preferences and general eligibility requirements, please visit our website at chandleraz.gov/affordablehousing or call us at 480-782-3200. Requests for Reasonable Accommodations If you require a reasonable accommodation, please contact the office by phone at 480-782-3200, 7-1-1 TTY options:English 800-367-8939 / Español 800-842-2088; or in person at 235 S. Arizona Ave Chandler AZ 85225; or by fax 480-782-3220; or by email chandler.housing@chandleraz. gov. The City is accepting requests for reasonable accommodation, modification and auxiliary aids and services at any time. Requests may include (but are not limited to) applications in large print or Braille, readers, sign language interpreters, assistance explaining or forms due to disability. Requests for Language Services The online pre-application and paper pre-applications are available in English, Spanish, French, Arabic, Mandarin, Vietnamese, and Korean. If you would like to pre-application in a language other than English, you can call 480-782-3200 or come to our office or 7-1-1 TTY options: English 800-367-8939 / Español 800-842-2088 The City of Chandler Housing and Redevelopment Division is committed to fully complying with all state, federal, and local laws involving non-discrimination and equal housing opportunity. Additional information, such as Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), will soon be located on the website at chandleraz.gov/affordablehousing. If you should have questions, please contact our office 480-782-3200.

Requerimientos de ingresos: El Total de Ingresos del Hogar no debe exceder a lo siguiente

¿Qué información necesitará para presentar una pre-solicitud? • El nombre, el segundo nombre y los apellidos de todos los miembros del hogar. • Las fechas de nacimiento de todos los miembros del hogar. • El ingreso bruto anual total combinado (de toda fuente) de todos los miembros del hogar. ¿Cómo puede usted hacer su pre-solicitud? Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles y serán aceptadas en línea, por correo electrónico, por fax, o por teléfono, y las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles en la puerta cercana al buzón especial “Drop Box” ubicado en 226 S. Washington St., Chandler, AZ 85225. ¿Cómo se puede presentar una pre-solicitud completa en línea? Visite chandleraz.gov/applyforhousing. Si usted está haciendo su pre-solicitud en línea, debe completar ambos pasos del proceso en línea: • Crear una cuenta. • Enviar una pre-solicitud completa. ¿Cómo se puede obtener una pre-solicitud física en papel? Solicite una pre-solicitud en papel (incluya su domicilio postal en su solicitud): • Por correo electrónico a: chandler.housing@chandleraz.gov • Por teléfono llamando al: 480-782-3200 ó al 7-1-1 usando las opciones de TTY: Inglés 1-800-367-8939 / Español 1-800-842-2088 • Por fax al: 480-782-3220 • Las pre-solicitudes están disponibles en la puerta del estacionamiento ubicado en 226 S. Washington St., Chandler, AZ 85225 • Forma en formato PDF: chandleraz.gov/affordablehousing ¿Cómo puede usted presentar una pre-solicitud en papel? • Por correo electrónico a: chandler.housing@chandleraz.gov Si usted nos envía su pre-solicitud por correo electrónico, ésta se debe recibir a más tardar a las 12 p.m. del 21 de octubre de 2021. • Por fax al: 480-782-3220. Si usted nos envía su pre-solicitud por fax, ésta se debe recibir a más tardar a las 12 p.m. del 21 de octubre de 2021. • Por correo postal a: City of Chandler Housing and Redevelopment Division, Mail Stop 101, P.O. Box 4008, Chandler, AZ 85344. Si usted nos envía su pre-solicitud por correo postal, ésta debe contar con el matasellos postal fechado el 21 de octubre de 2021 ó antes. • Las pre-solicitudes se pueden depositar en el buzón especial “Drop Box” ubicado en 226 S. Washington St. Chandler, AZ 85225. Si usted trae su pre-solicitud a nuestra oficina, debe depositarla en el buzón especial “Drop Box” a más tardar a las 12 p.m. del 21 de octubre de 2021. IMPORTANTE: Su pre-solicitud debe llenarse totalmente o no será aceptada, y no se le colocará a usted en la lista de espera. ¿Cómo se colocarán las pre-solicitudes en la lista de espera? Del grupo de todas las pre-solicitudes que se presenten, 2,000 pre-solicitudes se colocarán en la lista de espera por medio de una selección aleatoria (“lotería”) por preferencia. Las pre-solicitudes que no sean seleccionadas tendrán que volver a solicitar la asistencia cuando las solicitudes se vuelvan a abrir. Para más información sobre las preferencias de la Ciudad y los requerimientos generales de elegibilidad, por favor visite nuestro sitio web chandleraz.gov/affordablehousing ó llámenos al 480-782-3200. Solicitudes de Adaptaciones Razonables Si usted requiere una adaptación razonable, por favor comuníquese con la oficina llamando al 480-782-3200, ó al 7- -1 usando las opciones de TTY: Inglés 1-800-367-8939 / Español 1-800-842-2088; ó en persona en 235 S. Arizona Ave. Chandler AZ 85225; ó por fax al 480-782-3220; ó por correo electrónico en chandler.housing@chandleraz.gov. La Ciudad está aceptando solicitudes de adaptaciones razonables, modificaciones y dispositivos y servicios auxiliares en cualquier momento. Las solicitudes pueden incluir (pero no están limitadas a) solicitudes en letra grande o en Braille, lectores, intérpretes de lenguaje de señas, asistencia explicando o formas debido a una discapacidad. Solicitudes de Servicios de Idiomas La pre-solicitud en línea y las pre-solicitudes en papel están disponibles en inglés, español, francés, árabe, mandarín, vietnamita, y coreano. Si usted desea una pre-solicitud en un idioma que no sea inglés, puede llamar al 480-782-3200 ó acudir a nuestra oficina, ó llamar al 7-1-1 usando las opciones de TTY: Inglés 1-800-367-8939 / Español 1-800-842-2088 La División de Vivienda y Redesarrollo de la Ciudad de Chandler se compromete a cumplir plenamente con todas las leyes estatales, federales y locales que envuelvan la antidiscriminación y la igualdad de oportunidades en la vivienda. En el sitio web pronto habrá información adicional, como Preguntas Frecuentes (FAQ por sus siglas en inglés), wwchandleraz.gov/affordablehousing. Si tiene usted preguntas, por favor llame a nuestra oficina al 480-782-3200.

Mail Stop 101, P.O. Box 4008 Chandler, AZ 85244-4008 235 S. Arizona Ave. Chandler, AZ 85225 www.chandleraz.gov/affordablehousing 480-782-3200 | Fax 480-782-3220

The Arizona Relay Service provides free 24-hour telephone access for the deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, and hearing or speech impaired. 7-1-1 (TTY) * 7-1-1 (Voice) TTY English 800-367-8939 / Español 800-842-2088 Published: East Valley Tribune, Oct. 17, 2021 / 42111

GILBERT SUN NEWS | OCTOBER 17, 2021

contemporary furniture & accessories

Gilbert location opening Fall 2021

coming soon! 2000 S. San Tan Village Parkway Gilbert AZ 85295

Architectural rendering of the future Copenhagen, Gilbert. Construction is well under way!

In the very near future, Copenhagen will be announcing the opening of our brand new showroom, to be located in the heart of Gilbert’s thriving shopping district, and directly across from San Tan Village Mall. This newly constructed, 32,000 square foot showroom will offer inspiring furniture vignettes, with a specific focus on the contemporary and modern designs you’ve come to know at Copenhagen. Of course, our classic Scandinavian, our fine collection of teak furniture, as well as our fabulous collection of contemporary accessories, including art, rugs and lighting, will also be represented. This will undoubtedly be the area’s most unique furniture shopping experience. We can’t wait to show it off. On behalf of the entire Copenhagen team, we looking forward to seeing you very soon!

since

join our team now hiring

apply online at jobs.copenhagenliving.com

contemporary furniture & accessories

great prices great design

PHOENIX 1701 E. Camelback 602-266-8060 SCOTTSDALE 15804 N. Scottsdale Rd. 480-367-6401 TEMPE 2346 E. Southern

www.copenhagenliving.com

(at 101)

480-838-3080

Gilbert Sun News - 10.17.2021

Articles inside

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