April 2018
Relentlessly local coverage of Gilbert and our neighboring communities
Hometown Heroes
Bill Okruch splashes down the water slide with his daughter Caprice, 5, at the Ka-POW! Superhero Adventure Run.
Small bridge to bring safety and regional connectivity
Public safety training center in the planning stages
STORY AND PHOTOS BY SRIANTHI PERERA
BY MCKAYLA HULL
Gilbert has secured the funds to construct a pedestrian bridge that will add connectivity not just to the town, but to the region. The bridge will close a small gap in the Western Powerline Trail, where the Union Pacific Railroad crosses, located in a mainly industrial area a short distance from Neely Road and in the vicinity of Neely Traditional Academy. “Although people can cross the trail, it’s illegal to cross the railroad there,” said Rod Buchanan, the Parks and Recreation
Director for the town. “When you do this project, you will make it legal to cross the tracks.” The bridge will be designed by September and constructed next year. About 1,000 feet long and 30-feet high, it will serve as one of the gateways to the Heritage District for those biking, walking and riding from the area west of the railroad. It will also help those from Chandler, see
PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE page 6
Gilbert’s police officers and firefighters travel to other cities in the Valley for training because the town doesn’t have a specialized facility of its own. It fritters away time and money and is often wrought with scheduling challenges. The town is planning to construct its own public safety training center on 50 acres of land it owns on the northeast corner of Power and Pecos roads, north of the railroad tracks, Gilbert Police
Chief Mike Soelberg said. The state-of-the-art public safety training center will cost $84.6 million and the majority of its funding is expected to come from bonds of about $56 million or less, which voters would have to approve, according to Soelberg. The request for a bond election is expected to go before the Gilbert Town Council in June, he also said. In a setting mimicking the structures
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April 2018
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April 2018
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PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE
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from page 1
Tempe, Mesa and other cities to widen their pedestrian commutes. Western Powerline Trail is part of the 110-mile Sun Circle Trail that loops around metro Phoenix. In Gilbert, it runs east-west along Western Canal in between Elliot and Guadalupe roads. On the west it connects to Price Road near Tempe (Hwy 101 prevents its continuation) and on the east, although the Western Canal stops at Lindsey Road, the trail continues to just east of Power Road, steps away from Mesa. The trail is continuous up to Lindsay Road and has a few other gaps thereafter, although it’s not illegal to go over them as they are simply unimproved stretches, Buchanan said. “We wanted to connect the trail systems; we have a detour that would send
Gilbert’s main trails Western Powerline Trail: part of the Sun Circle Trail that loops along Western Canal in between Elliot and Guadalupe roads; runs east west. Heritage Trail: along Consolidated Canal running from east of Lindsay Road to McQueen/Queen Creek roads; runs north south. Santan Vista Trail: along Eastern Canal running from west of Greenfield Road to Gilbert/Riggs roads; runs north south. Marathan Trail: from east of Recker Road to Val Vista Drive/Hunt Highway; runs north south.
people to Elliot Road and back up so they could get to the Heritage District,” said Toby Crooks, project manager. “That’s not very practical.” The detour route is about 1 mile long, and although a wayfinding sign has been installed, it’s often ignored, town officials said. During an online survey and in-person community solicitation at the Farmers Market regarding the bridge, 59.8 percent of responses indicated the bridge will change how the participants use Gilbert’s trail system and/or access the Heritage District. (The town also noted that a majority of those who responded were ages 35-54, and 60 percent were female.) The survey also asked respondents to choose the bridge design from three concepts: Riparian (inspired by water and riparian grasses, this concept looked at manipulating steel to create a sense of movement through water and wind); Deco (inspired by the architectural forms common in the Art Deco movement, this concept blended rusted and painted steel with the forms and geom-
etries of this period); and Railroad (inspired by the railroad heritage of the area, it highlights some of the iconic shapes and imagery of the train and rail). The Railroad concept received 53.4 percent of the vote. The town applied, and was successful in securing, a Federal infrastructure project grant of about $2.8 million via Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) in 2015. The funds will go toward the bridge construction. In addition, Gilbert will spend a total of $1.3 million ($420,000 from its General Fund and $912,000 from previous project reimbursements) on its design as well as other ancillary expenses and future maintenance. MAG Transportation Planner Jason Stephens said that every two years, the organization distributes about $26.5 million among the various municipalities for bicycle and pedestrian projects. However, “we get about 200 percent of that in projects requested,” he said. “It’s very competitive.” Stephens said that only the best projects are funded and Gilbert’s project was graded – and ranked – high. “One of the criteria is connections,” he said. “One of the things that we want communities to do is connecting points of interest. When we talk about a regional connection, we also have to think longterm. By having this bridge, it allows people to get over the railroad, and safely, and it also allows somebody to continue on.” “Gaps are typically the highest value for the dollar in terms of cost benefit analysis,” Buchanan said. “You could have a small gap that connects miles and miles of trails. Closing those gaps is the best use of available funding.” Earlier, the town tried to close the gap by obtaining an at grade crossing from Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR), which is a level crossing where a railway line crosses a road or path at the same level. “UPRR won’t allow an at grade crossing unless you give up some existing ones,” Crooks said. “That’s something the town cannot support because we need the crossings that we have.” In addition to the bridge, the town will also construct a small trailhead; a beautified area to take rest or for people to await others. By improving these trails with enhancements such as pedestrian bridges, pocket parks, trailheads, drinking water fountains and other such amenities, designed with recreation, connectivity and safety, the town is trying to provide residents an alternative to getting into a car and driving. Residents have options to walk, cycle or even ride a horse to a destination instead. The Western Powerline Trail connects to Heritage Trail and Santan Vista Trail as
A bridge over the rail tracks would make it safe for pedestrians to continue westward on the trail.
Where the Western Powerline Trail meets the Union Pacific Railroad, crossing the rail tracks is illegal. But people cross it anyway.
Along with the bridge, the town plans to create a trailhead at Neely Road, at one end of the bridge. Photo shows a current rest area off the trail.
well as to many of the town’s parks and two riparian preserves. Crooks said that the bridge and trailhead to come may be a catalyst for improvements to that part of the town, now featuring mainly industrial manufacturers. “It’ll be small. But if things work out and development incurs, then this would
be a nice focal point,” he said. Details: gilbertaz.gov/departments/ public-works/engineering-services/capitalimprovement-projects/pr113-westernpowerline-trail-uprr-grade-separatedpedestrian-crossing
April 2018
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PUBLIC SAFETY
from page 1
in Gilbert, the training center will include 11 features to help train both the fire and police departments. Among them, a shooting range and driving tracks for police to practice pursuits and hone driving skills. The shooting range will allow 50 people to train at once, more than the current range in Gilbert, which can take only eight people at a time, Soelberg said. For firefighters, there will be an apartment complex, strip mall and houses to practice putting out fires in burning buildings. The strip mall’s structure could be set up to look like a barber shop, a bank or any other establishment the training dictated. One of the houses will even have a basement because more basement homes are being built in Gilbert. The structures will allow police officers to practice building searches, hostage/barricade and domestic violence situations, for example, Soelberg said. “The way this is designed for both PD and fire, it allows that versatility,” he said. Classrooms will also be an integral part of the facility. Although the training center is mainly for police and fire use, it will be available to the community as well, Soelberg said. Schools in the Higley Unified School District and the East Valley Institute of Technology will be able to use the facility’s open meeting room when available, he said. Chandler-Gilbert Community College’s police academy at the Williams Gateway Campus will also be able to use the facility. The need for a public safety training facility was identified many years ago. An initial needs assessment was completed in 2005, but the plan stalled because of the recession that followed. Going to other cities to use their training facilities adds up costs because the department needs extra funds for fuel and for overtime, according to Gilbert Fire Chief Jim Jobusch. In 2016, police trained 115 personnel
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Gilbert Public Safety Training Center Components 1. Driving Track – Evasive Driving Course 2. Driving Track – Tactical Driving Course 3. Driving Track – Skills Pad #1 4. Driving Track – Skills Pad #2 5. Administration/Classroom Building 6. Big Box and Driver Training Building 7 Apartment/Tower Burn Building (Class B) 8 Residential Burn Building (Class A) w/Basement 9 Residential Burn Building (Class B) 2 story w/Garage 10 Strip Mall Burn Building (Class B) 11 Shooting Range at Central Arizona College for 16 training sessions and paid $300 per day at a total cost of $4,800. Gilbert also uses Tempe, Chandler and Mesa fire training centers, although they didn’t charge for some use in 2016, the costs for fuel and overtime drive up training costs. Prior to 2018, Soelberg said, the police department used Apache Junction’s outdoor firearms range for rifle training, but the facility has no classrooms or bathrooms. “We needed a location that could provide a better training environment and one that was closer to Gilbert. We just started using the Mesa PD firearms range and will continue to do so until our new training facility is complete,” he said. The department pays $100 per person a year to use Mesa’s fire range for training, and the new facility would bring savings of about $10,000, he added. Once the bonds are approved by voters, the entire project will take three years to complete. The 21 months of construction is planned to begin by end 2019. The facility will help attract new recruits with what it offers, the officials said. Besides, the training will take place in Gilbert. Soelberg said that Gilbert is thriving because it’s a safe community. “We have a training gap that we’re trying to fill with this facility that we
(Rendering courtesy of Gilbert)
A rendering of Gilbert’s planned training center for fire and police; the project will depend on bonds of about $56 million, and the request for a bond election is expected to go before Town Council in June.
don’t want to turn into an operational gap, which means we have failures out in the community when we’re doing our
jobs and they could cost lives and cost money,” Jobusch said.
New utility billing customer portal for Gilbert BY SRIANTHI PERERA
Gilbert is simplifying the process of paying utility bills online with a new customer portal due to launch early April. Here are the features of the new portal: • Rather than signing into one system to view the billing statement and sign into another system to pay the bill, customers will be able to access their statement and pay the bill with a single sign-on. • In addition to paying with credit
cards, customers will be able to make payments from their checking or savings accounts, using eCheck. • The payment method may be saved in the system, eliminating the need to key in the information each time. • Email or text alerts may be set up to notify when statements are ready. If the payment method is saved, a text may be used to pay the bill. • A new, 24-hour, automated voice response system that may be used to
check the balance or make a payment. The portal will incorporate many of the features that residents have requested, said Leslie Giltner, the town’s customer service manager. The town has 85,000 utility accounts, 30,000 of which use the Autopay system. While 17,000 receive electronic notices (paperless billing), the town mails about 65,000 paper statements to customers each month. Gilbert is hoping the user-friendly
portal will attract more customers for electronic billing. “We’re really going to make a big push through our portal to get more and more customers signed up for the electronic billing,” Giltner said. “We save on postage and printing.” Giltner said that paperless billing customers will need to sign up again, but Autopay customers will be able to transfer their information to the new system.
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Denny Barney to head East Valley Partnership BY SRIANTHI PERERA
Maricopa County Supervisor Denny Barney is poised to take the baton from John Lewis and head the East Valley Partnership on a part-time basis from June. Former Gilbert Mayor Lewis, who has headed the partnership since 2016, is planning to resign in May to take up a mission leader position for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Cambodia. For Barney, 48, who did not seek the position but was offered it, the move seems seamless. As county supervisor, Barney oversees the municipalities of Tempe, Chandler, Ahwatukee Foothills, Gilbert, west Mesa and Queen Creek. As president and CEO of the partnership, he will oversee the economics and quality of life improvements in Tempe, Chandler, Mesa, Gilbert, Queen Creek and Apache Junction. “So it’s a lot of the things I’m doing already,” said Barney, who, on his sixth term on the County board, has decided not to run for another term and to work fulltime for the partnership from early next year. Alongside him, former Mesa city manager Mike Hutchinson will serve as full-time executive vice-president of the partnership. Meanwhile, Barney will also balance his duties with his role as principal of Arcus Private Capital Solutions, a specialized realty investment and finance company. Just now, his hands are full with several new initiatives he’s helping develop for the county, he said, and they have to be completed before he can step down.
In addition to overlapping jurisdictions, Barney has a broad understanding of the area and familiarity with its leaders. His initiatives at the county includes seeking ways to reduce inmate recidivism, improving regulatory processes and customer service and collaboratively addressing regional homelessness. “My role at the county has given me a much bigger perspective of some of the regional strengths, and some of the regional challenges,” he said. “I’ve been able to work closely with the mayors and with the members of the business leaders in the community to understand what the weaknesses and the challenges are.” “Because of those relationships and because of the perspective, I think it’ll help me pick up the baton that John Lewis has been carrying and Roc Arnett beforehand; those are great leaders who understand the needs of our communities and my goal is to stand on their shoulders and take the experiences and the perspective that I have from the county and go to work,” he added. The East Valley Partnership was created in 1982 as a nonpartisan coalition of civic, business, education and political leaders dedicated to the economic development and promotion of the East Valley. The partnership advocates in areas such as economic development, education, transportation and infrastructure, arts and healthcare. “It’s a collection of both private sector and public sector and leaders in the community that have come together in a shared vision of building
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www.GilbertSunNews.com and strengthening the East Valley,” said Barney, who deems this combination a core strength of the partnership. “It’s not just government, it’s not just the private sector, it’s all together and that’s what really makes it strong.” Since its founding, the region has experienced exponential population growth and added thousands of new jobs. Today, East Valley boasts a combined population of 1.3 million in the cities and towns of Apache Junction, Chandler, Fountain Hills, Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek, Tempe and Gila River Indian and Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Communities. Because of its talented and highly educated workforce and favorable quality of life, the area also continues to be a magnet for new businesses and entrepreneurial ventures, particularly in industries such as aerospace and aviation, technology, financial services and healthcare. “Maricopa County is the fastest growing county in the US. As the county grows, we want to make sure that the East Valley continues to grow appropriately with the growth that happens across the county,” Barney said. Barney is not an entire stranger to the partnership for another reason: before he was elected to public office, he served on the partnership’s board as well. Barney’s role – overcoming challenges and forging ahead with new initiatives — is a hallmark of the sixth generation Arizonan’s family. He hails from two of Mesa’s four founding families; the Robsons (from his father’s side) and the Pomeroys (from his mother’s side). In the late 1800s, they were among the pioneers that settled the Salt River Valley. “They went on top of the mesa, where the City of Mesa is now, and found the old Hohokam canals. They knew that if they can get water on these canals, they can farm like the indigenous people,” Barney said. “They hand-dug a ditch three miles up the river to bring water to the old town and that’s how they were able to live and farm on top of the mesa, what’s now the City of Mesa.” Barney’s parents moved to Gilbert in the early 1980s when the town had just one stop light. He went to school in Mesa and Gilbert and thereafter attended law school in Arizona State University. He still resides in Gilbert with his wife, Nichole, and their four children; the eldest of them, a daughter, is married; the eldest son is serving an LDS mission near Santiago, Chile; and the younger boys are in high school. “I’ve tried to be involved because this is home and it’s a place that I love and I want to help build the community in the same way that my ancestors helped build the community,” Barney said.
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Gilbert will soon join other Valley cities to offer Safe Exchange Zones within police station premises. Gilbert Leadership, an annual program of the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is constructing two Safe Exchange Zones in Gilbert within the premises of two police complexes: at Gilbert Police and Fire Headquarters at 75 E. Civic Center Drive and Gilbert Police San Tan Station in the northwest corner of Greenfield and Queen Creek roads. Both will be open to the public on April 8. Most people purchase goods online and meet the seller in a gas station or Walmart parking lot to finalize the deal without thinking twice about personal safety. But what if that person comes armed with a gun and demands all the cash you have in your wallet or take your money and walk away without giving the goods? Another instance is child custody exchanges, which are sometimes wrought with emotion; where’s a suitable place to hand over a child? Shannon Powell, member of Gilbert Leadership’s Class XXVI, said that the class selected police stations because of the public safety officials’ constant presence. “Basically, there’s just a feeling of a safe place that they can go so they’re not meeting at somebody’s house and they are not meeting in a convenience store and there’s a feeling of more safety,” she said. The exchange zones will be in the police complex within sight of the main entrance and consist of a concrete table and seating, signage and some landscaping around the space.
The 24 members of the class plan to donate about 300 hours of labor to install the project on Saturday, April 7; it has also raised the $5,000 necessary, Powell said. The exchanges – of goods or children – will be done in a well-lit environment and under the watchful eye of 24-hour digital surveillance. Recently, Gilbert resident Kevin Gray shared his experience with Gilbert Leadership about being robbed at gun point from inside his vehicle last December. “I’ve replayed this scenario multiple times in the last few weeks and I believe that if the scenario had taken place in a designated “exchange zone” at a police station, where there is surveillance and officers ready to step in if need be, it wouldn’t have happened,” he said. “Life is too short to put yourself in funny situations, especially for a few hundred dollars.” Safe Exchange Zones are being established in cities throughout the country and in Arizona. In 2015, ASU Police Department set one up in its lobby in Tempe, and three other Tempe stations have also been designated for safe exchanges. Earlier this year, Mesa designated five of its police stations as public spaces for safely exchanging online purchases. “I think there’s a need for this just to ensure safety because it’s such a common practice now for us to buy and sell from strangers,” Powell said. “I think this is a great opportunity that we’re adding to Gilbert.
Flinn-Brown Fellows
Gilbert residents: Elaine Kessler, who owns Elaine Kessler Photography and Candace Park, Arizona National Guard State public affairs officer, Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs/Arizona National Guard; and a Queen Creek resident: Brad Kendrex: vice president, Administration and Finance at Chandler-Gilbert Community College. They are to participate in a 12-part seminar series led by Arizona policy and political experts.
BY GSN CONTRIBUTOR
The Arizona Center for Civic Leadership, a nonpartisan program of the Flinn Foundation, has competitively selected 36 Arizonans for the 2018 FlinnBrown Civic Leadership Academy. The foundation supports the advancement of Arizona’s bioscience sector, arts and culture, and the Flinn Scholars Program. Among those selected are two
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Voting for Best of Gilbert began Sunday, April 1. Here’s your chance to let the East Valley know about the best in food, work and fun in Gilbert. Voting for the East Valley Tribune’s annual Best of Gilbert awards began Sunday, April 1 and continues through Monday, April 30. Voting will be online at eastvalleytribune.com. The Best of Gilbert will be available on May 27. Best of Gilbert will feature more than 50 awards in categories including Dining & Entertainment, Business, Health, Medical and Education.
April 2018
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April 2018
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‘Superheros’ run amok at Freestone Photos by Cheryl Haselhorst
Colorful capes, boots and clothing in the manner of superheros brightened up Freestone Park recently, when the town of Gilbert held its annual KaPOW! Superhero Adventure Run. The family run encourages participants to
wear their favorite superhero costume and tackle a two-mile course filled with about 20 obstacles. They included the Spiderman Tower, Thor Tires, Iron Man Crawl, Wonder Woman Wall and the Aqua-man’s waterside.
1. Holly Fox, 10, laughs as she zips down the water slide.
5. Lola Seger, 8, reacts as she zooms down the highest slide.
2. A group of costumed runners makes its way through an inflatable bouncy.
6. Darby Maki and four-year-old Gavin dressed as Batman for the run.
3. Hunter Wojciechowski, 5, dressed as The Flash, poses for a photo as he comes down the water slide.
7. ‘Superdog’, a.k.a. Gage, surveys the crowd as he accompanies owner Misty Murrietta to the run.
4. Maya Biswas, 3, on her trip down the water slide with her dad Ari.
8. Chloee Schnepp, 2, samples a chocolate cupcake.
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April 2018
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April 2018
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National embroidery exhibit comes to Gilbert BY LEISAH WOLDOFF
A national touring exhibit showcasing the best in artistic and technical needlework will visit Gilbert this month. “Through the Needle’s Eye,” a juried show presented by the Embroiderers’ Guild of America, is making its Arizona debut through a partnership with HD South (formerly, the Gilbert Historical Museum) and Starlight Stitchers, one of four chapters of the guild in Arizona. “This is not your grandmother’s needlepoint,” said Kayla Kolar, president and CEO of HD South. “This is a fine art exhibit.” The exhibit, which will be on display April 3 to May 12 at HD South, features nearly 50 pieces of artwork and covers all the techniques of embroidery, according to Helene Ossipov, chair of the exhibit committee for Starlight Stitchers. These techniques include beading, blackwork, medal thread, goldwork and cross-stitch. The pieces range from the size of a small compact to a large quilt. Embroidery is defined as “the decoration of cloth, using a needle with an eye.” “A lot of people think of embroidery as just cross-stitch, but it’s so much more than that,” Ossipov said. “Some of the things that you’ll see at the exhibit are really beautiful works of art.” She said her favorite piece in the exhibit is “Silence is Filled with Conversation,” a piece by Marie Renee Otis, one of her former embroidery instructors. Anyone in the world is eligible to submit their work and this year’s show includes submissions from artists in Canada and New Zealand. The guild, based in Louisville, Kentucky, is dedicated to the study, preservation and promotion of needle art. The current exhibit, its 21st national show, opened in Brevard, North Carolina in August 2017. Each show tours nationally for three years, with seven to 10 stops per tour. As of this month, the Gilbert exhibit is the only one scheduled in the Pacific Southwest Region and Ossipov believes it may be the first time the national show has come to the region. The exhibit will also include stitching demonstrations, scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 7, and Saturday, May 5. Entrance to the exhibit is included in general admission, as are the museum’s permanent exhibits that chronicle the history of Gilbert and the 13th annual “Art of Quilting Show,” which is on display through May 28. The quilting exhibit features more than 100 quilts from members of the local community. HD South is the home of the Gilbert Historical Museum and its name refers to its location at the southern end of the Gilbert Heritage District. The organization rebranded in fall 2017 to add arts and culture exhibits and intergenerational programming. Programs include art work-
“Inspiring Strings” by Kim Beamish
“Silence is Filled with Conversation,” by Marie Renee Otis (Photos courtesy of Embroiderers’ Guild of America)
“Chardonnay Stags” by Claudia Claar
shops, STEM workshops, music programs, gardening classes, storytelling and yoga. “There’s all kinds of things happening all the time,” Kolar said. “We have a lot more to offer now than we ever did before.”
“All That Jazz” by Catherine McEnerney
HD South is located at 10 S. Gilbert Road. Entrance to the exhibit is included in general admission, which is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $3 for children ages 5-12. The museum is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. TuesdaySaturday. Visit hdsouth.org, starlightstitchers.org and egausa.org.
Neighbors
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April 2018
NYT Deli isn’t your typical eatery STORY AND PHOTOS BY SRIANTHI PERERA
NYT (Not Your Typical) Deli takes its name from its staff. About 70 percent of its young adult employees are autistic or have development disabilities. “Kids with autism have a hard time getting a job because there’s that sigma that they can’t function. And they can,” said Pam DePalma, co-owner and manager. “It’s just once they’ve learned the job, they’ve got it. And they’re probably some of the best employees you would have.” “There’s no drama, they want to be here, they show up on time, for the most part, they’re happy and eager to please, and it’s really a great staff,” she added. The delicatessen features a good selection of hot and cold chef-designed sandwiches, hot dogs, chop salads and bakery desserts. It’s located in Gilbert Town Square, in the vicinity of the Regal Gilbert Stadium. The new location has been a blessing, too. It was earlier housed in smaller premises at Val Vista Drive and Baseline Road and moved here in December. “It’s so much better over here,” DePalma said. The larger site, which can seat 60 patrons inside and up to 40 outside, has space for One More Bite Bakery and Bergies Coffee Roast House. Plans are being made to add
Pam DePalma, co-owner/manager of NYT (Not Your Typical) Deli stands next to a stack of its much touted chocolate chip cookies.
dinner hours during Fridays and the weekend to attract theater patrons. NYT Deli is owned by Chef W and his wife, Chef Vanessa Luna, as well as Pam and Chuck DePalma, who take care of the business side. “We were troubled by the fact that there aren’t very many transition programs for kids when they get out of high school if they’re not going to college,” said Pam, whose son, Daniel, is autistic. Daniel brings food out, buses tables and does dishes in the kitchen.
A TABLE FOR TWO? Phind it
About 70 percent of NYT Deli’s employees are autistic young adults.
Although the transition was “a little difficult” for him and for the staff, they adapted in time, Pam said. “It’s just different way of thinking and processing and we train differently,” she said. “Sometimes, it may take saying something differently so that they understand it or it just might be repetition.” The deli is planning to hire more autistic workers in the future. It’s also working with Square One, a non-profit, which is focused on empowering capable adults with disabilities with unique opportunities.
Currently, the unemployment rate for adults with autism in Arizona is nearly 90 percent. NYT Deli is located at 1166 S. Gilbert Road, Suite 101, Gilbert. Open hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday to Saturday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Details: 480-794-1116, nytdeli.com or write to the management at feedme@nytdeli.com. To make a tax-deductible donation, visit squareonenonprofit.org.
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April 2018
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Photos by Cheryl Haselhorst
Cherrie Lonkar, a foster and adoptive mom of six and a member of Branching Out Family Services, hosted about 40 adolescents and teens for a day of pampering and building self-esteem recently at Zynergy Wellness Salon and Boutique in Gilbert. The day was made possible also by the generosity of business and community members and the salon staff that volunteered their time and
talents. The teens also received gifts of hair and skin care products, a duffle bag and bed-in-a-bag bedding set. Branching Out Family Services was founded by foster/adoptive parents and mental health professionals to support families and children through education, counseling, coaching and advocacy. Details: branchingoutfamilyservices.com.
1. Natalia, left, and Julianna Thomas pose for photos after their pampering sessions in the salon.
5. Stylist Raven Goodlee concentrates on a hair braiding style.
3. Maile Lonkar, 9, has her nails painted by manicurist Gina Flores-Devorkin. 4. Julianna Thomas gets her hair washed by stylist Taylor Mendez.
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Day of beauty
2. Stylist Chelsea Naylor concentrates on trimming hair.
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6. Aesthetician Heather Bailey describes skin care products before putting them in the girls’ duffle bags. 7. Synergy Salon buzzes with activity, with stylists S.J. Van Oordt (at left) and Kalena Bean (behind). 8. Gabrielle Heath packs a duffle bag with bedding and goodies.
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April 2018
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April 2018
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Modern Milk creates a safe community for moms and babies BY SRIANTHI PERERA
If you’re sick, you go to a doctor, but if you need breastfeeding help, where do you go? The search for the answer led Scottsdale resident Stephanie Nguyen to found Modern Milk, a breastfeeding clinic that evolved also into a prenatal/ postnatal educational center, fitness facility and mom and baby boutique, in Scottsdale in 2015. Recently, Nguyen opened a second location of Modern Milk in Gilbert Tuscany Village, at the northeast corner of Higley and Guadalupe roads. When she had her two daughters, now ages 7 and 4, Nguyen found it difficult to find support for lactation. “The pediatrician didn’t have much to offer, as far as help goes with breastfeeding, and neither did my ob-gyn, and I was just asking friends and trying to figure out on my own,” she said. “I thought, if that place exists, it would make it easier for a lot of moms and their babies.” Nguyen, a women’s health nurse practitioner who once worked as a labor and delivery nurse at HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea, has since became an international board certified lactation consultant. Modern Milk’s main focus remains breastfeeding; it offers lactation consultations, breastfeeding classes, and also carries breastfeeding products. However, it also offers help to navigate the challenges of motherhood with prenatal classes and other fitness classes for mom and baby, mom’s support groups and also stocks specialized retail products. Most of the moms who walk in through the doors are seeking help in something. But they find much more. “What we really found is that our moms really like the community,” Nguyen said. “Moms have babies and they feel a little isolated. It’s nice to connect with other moms who’re going through the same thing as you are, have babies the same age as you and have a safe place to go to get out of the house to connect with those other moms.” Friends Danielle Neff of Mesa and Jaime Wait of Chandler were recently participating in the founders’ philosophy of “happy mom, happy baby” with a yoga class for moms and babies. Neff’s seven-month-old baby boy, Bodhi, was “moving around,” she said. “It’s incorporating moms and babies, and so it’s something that you do to bond,” she added. “We get to know the other moms in the community and the babies.” Wait, who attended with her baby daughter, Ariella, said: “you’re playing
Arielle attends yoga class with mom Jaime Wait. (Photo special to GSN)
Stephanie Sitton manages the Modern Milk reception with baby Mia draped around her.
Gretchen Seeck teaches a yoga class at Modern Milk. (GSN photo by Srianthi Perera)
(GSN photo by Srianthi Perera)
A curated boutique offers a selection of the latest apparel, accessories and products in brands such as Namomste, Crew & Lu, Tiny Trucker Co., DockATot and Cake Maternity. (GSN photo by Srianthi Perera)
Baby Bodhi kept moving during yoga class, said mom Danielle Neff. (Photo special to GSN)
with your baby the whole time. It’s fun and you get to hang out with others.” (After the class, however, she was going to a more strenuous yoga class.) Nguyen, who’s now starting to help moms who are having their second and third babies, said she’s getting positive comments from women “all the time.”
More branches of the concept are in the works as well. “We believe moms need to work together and support each other in this business called motherhood,” she said.
Modern Milk is located at 3244 E. Guadalupe Road, Suite #A106, Gilbert. Details: modernmilk.com.
Modern Milk has a focus on breastfeeding, but it offers other services to help navigate motherhood. (GSN photo by Srianthi Perera)
April 2018
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April 2018
DQ Grill & Chill offers separate areas to grill and chill
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BY ALEX WHITTEN
Think Dairy Queen and thick, creamy ice cream comes to mind. But the brand has served much more than the sweet treats, and recently, it has evolved a new concept that offers what it calls “fan food.” Dairy Queen’s DQ Grill & Chill will open a new location in Gilbert by November. Last year, it opened two new locations in Chandler. The expansion to Chandler and Gilbert is necessary to bring the franchise out of its mall locations, according to Greg Cowgur, executive vice president of DS Enterprises, the restaurant group that owns Dairy Queen. Although the brand has seen strong growth over the years, the steady decline of mall traffic and popularity has driven it to find new locations. “Malls just aren’t doing what they used to back in 2008,” Cowgur said. “I wanted to get out of the malls and be in a more traditional street location.” Dairy Queen has two outlets in Gilbert serving food and treats and a few more serving treats only, including one in SanTan Village. Cowgur said that Dairy Queen was underrepresented in the two munici-
palities. Additionally, he picked the new locations due to the area’s steady growth in income levels and demographics, he said. The DQ Grill & Chill restaurant changes the classic and nostalgic look of the typical Dairy Queens throughout the Valley to one that is more modern and current. The concept blends its heritage with innovation for quick service and food design. The new design features open air grills, separate areas to “grill” (Special to GSN) and “chill” and outdoor Dairy Queen’s new concept, DQ Grill & Chill, features open air grills, separate areas to “grill” and “chill” and patios. The more inviting outdoor patios. interior sports comfortAs for how customers will react to like 50 years,” Cowgur said. able booths, large wooden the new restaurant, Cowgur said he Gilbert is not expected to be the tables and warm lighting. expects them to be surprised by the brand’s newest location for too long. As the brand continues to grow naCowgur is looking to continue extionally from year to year, around 3 to 7 quality of the food and the friendliness panding across the Valley. percent, Dairy Queen and its innovation of the staff. “Especially here in the Valley, a lot of “Wherever the opportunities are, openhas become an example for its competipeople don’t know what Dairy Queen is ing up one a year is ideal,” he said. tors, and plans to stay in the competior that it even has food, but it has, for tion, according to Cowgur.
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April 2018
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Wildflower to open in Rivulon, serve beer, wine BY GSN CONTRIBUTOR
Wildflower restaurant is opening a location on Tuesday, April 3 in Rivulon, the mixed-use development located at the corner of Gilbert Road and Loop 202 in Gilbert. The Gilbert location, and another one that’s opening in Phoenix, will also be the first Wildflowers to serve craft beers, local wines and libations on tap. Wildflower has another location in Gilbert, on Baseline Road, just west of Val Vista Drive. The local brand, established in 1996, is also dropping the “Bread Company” moniker from its name. The new locations will sport a different look – the design team has focused on creating a vibrant environment that elevate the existing Wildflower brand to a new level, centered on the celebration of the social aspects of dining. Rather than adapting the building to conform to a prescribed ‘brand aesthetic,’ it will feature bold colors, integrated graphics and signage, and fields of patterns. “As a locally owned and operated Arizona business, we pride ourselves on giving our guests, who are also our neighbors, the very best experience from the moment they walk in the door,” said Louis Basile, founder and owner of Wild-
flower. “With these new restaurants, we’re providing the same excellent quality food and legendary service in an elevated environment.” Wildflower will continue to bake artisan bread daily at each restaurant. This commitment to making great bread is part of the brand’s heritage since the company’s inception. Its 15 locations in the Valley and beyond will continue to offer breakfast, lunch and dinner. Seasonal menu items include the V12 Kale Salad with organic baby kale, a mix of 12 vegetables (Special to GSN) including roasted BrusA seasonal menu item at Wildflower includes the V12 Kale Salad with organic baby kale and a mix of 12 vegetables. sels sprouts, cauliflower, Wildflower also features a specialty red peppers, eggplant, red onion and and spinach topped with slow-roasted bakery and handmade desserts, a comtomato tossed with fresh carrots, celery, tomatoes, scallions and goat cheese plete kids’ menu, a curated beverage jicama, zucchini, petite peas, dried sweet along with Wildflower home fries and selection and custom-ordered cakes. organic corn, feta and sunflower seeds buttered toast; and the Mac and Cheese with a Mediterranean vinaigrette; the 3 made with cavatappi pasta noodles and Cheese Mushroom and Tomato Frittata tossed in a three cheese sauce with a Details: wildflowerbread.com with Eggs served with Swiss and feta hint of Mama Lil’s peppers and homecheese, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms made bread crumbs.
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www.GilbertSunNews.com
April 2018
Upcoming events at HD South
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BY GSN CONTRIBUTOR
Each month, HD South, home of the Gilbert Historical Museum, offers a series of dynamic learning experiences that help enrich the community. Topics include science, history, gardening, art, music and interactive intergenerational experiences. Many of the programs are free, while some come with a small charge to cover materials. Details: hdsouth.org/calendar.
Ongoing events Gallery 4 “Through the Needle’s Eye:” through April. The Embroiderers’ Guild of America acknowledges the value of needlework in art and history. The National Exhibit, sponsored by the Starlight Stitchers from Tempe, is making its premier visit to Arizona. It’s a representative selection of the best in artistic and technical works. It is through the needle’s eye that the guild embraces both traditional and contemporary needlework while expanding the perception of embroidery as an art form. Please
Meet
check the calendar for when this exhibit will be available as the dates and times will vary from HD South’s regular hours. Yoga: 7-8 p.m. Thursdays. Experience a relaxing session of yoga to help let go of stress while conditioning muscles. Open to those with all levels of yoga experience, teens through adults. Free. Storytime: 10-10:45 a.m. Tuesdays. Join museum volunteers for stories and activities. Ages 3-5. Register one ticket per child. Free. The Art of Quilting Show: Through May 28. In its 13th year, the show displays different styles of quilts made in the community. It will showcase more than 100 quilts. Free with paid admission.
April events Science Café: Keeping Our Desert Streams Flowing: 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 3. Grant Loomis, hydrologist for Tonto National Forest, U.S. Forest Service, will discuss the importance of our forests’ watersheds and what the Tonto National Forest does
(Special to GSN)
to protect our watersheds and desert streams. Free. History Café: Arizona Quilts History: 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday April 7. Carole De Cosmo, executive director, Arizona Farm and Ranch Experience, will lead participants through a nostalgic journey of Arizona’s past through documentation of the state’s historic quilts. History Café: Water in the Desert: 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 10. Join noted jour-
nalist and historian Earl Zarbin who will share his knowledge about how water shaped the Phoenix area’s identity and continues to shape its future. Free. Science Café: Arizona’s Most Burning Question: The Future of our Forests and Water: 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 25. Rebecca Davidson of the National Forests Foundation will talk about why our national forests are so important to our water supply. Free.
JESSICA SYLVESTER, Realtor
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riginally from Canada, Jessica Sylvester has been living in the Southeast Valley for over 20 years. She is a wife, mother, and active member of the Southeast Valley real estate community.
Real estate is a passion of Jessica’s, but helping ot hers is truly her motivation. After obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Arizona State University, Jessica went on to achieve her Master of Business Administration. Her education expertly compliments her career path. Jessica actively supports community
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charities including the Special Olympics, Boys and Girls Club, and local animal rescue, ‘Boxer Luv Rescue.’ Jessica does not simply seek to achieve customer satisfaction, she works tirelessly to build trusting, long term relationships with her clients and their families. Jessica empowers and educates her clients, to ensure they are collaborating to create the best possible home buying/selling experience. After all, buying and selling a home may be one of the most significant decisions anyone can make in their life!
Phone: 480.242.4209 Email: Jessica.sylvester@russlyon.com Website: jessicasylvester.com Facebook: facebook.com/jessylvesterealtor Instagram: jessylvesterealtor
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Neighbors
April 2018
www.GilbertSunNews.com
‘Tough as Nails’ reflects couple’s journey BY RACHEL HAGERMAN
Valley-based CaZo Dance Company will tell the story of a California couple who struggled with brain cancer and fertility issues in its latest production, Tough as Nails. Performances are set for 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 13, and 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 14, at Phoenix Center for the Arts. CaZo Dance Company’s artistic director Bridgette Borzillo, of Gilbert, created the interpretive dance piece after reading about the journey of her cousins, Phil and Stacy Bacigalupi. The Bacigalupis were married for six years when they decided to try for a baby. However, Phil was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in 2011. It proved to be a six-year battle for the couple, but a year ago, Phil ran a half marathon a week after his baby, Sophie, was born. Phil’s nickname is “Tough as Nails.” Stacy posted a photo of the three of them at the race’s finish line on Facebook, therefore inspiring Borzillo. “I knew right then that I had to ask them if I could use their story,” she said. Tough as Nails’ cast includes lead female dancer, Samantha Brown of
Tolleson; lead male dancer Brayan Perez of Mesa and a Scottsdale Community College student; and dancer Misty West of Ahwatukee. “Tough as Nails is an emotional story told through the power of dance,” Borzillo said. “Attendees can expect to feel raw emotion from the performers, especially from the incredible leads, Samantha Brown and Brayan Perez. We are a unique dance company because we tell these stories through movement, acting and music, and we make sure the story is easy to follow.” Borzillo created Tough as Nails in hopes that Phil and Stacy’s story would raise awareness about brain tumors and fertility problems. Unfortunately, the challenges this couple faced are not uncommon. According to the CDC, 10 percent of women in the United States struggle with fertility, and the National Brain Tumor Society estimates that 78,980 Americans will be diagnosed with a brain tumor this year. Borzillo is credited with creating Tough as Nails, but the dancers used see
TOUGH AS NAILS page 27
(Special to GSN)
Samantha Brown of Tolleson and Brayan Perez of Mesa play Stacy and Phil Bacigalupi in Tough as Nails at the Phoenix Center for the Arts.
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“Tough as Nails” is at Phoenix Center for the Arts, 1202 N. Third Street, Phoenix. Shows run 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 13, and 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 14. Tickets are $20-$45. Details: cazodance.com.
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TOUGH AS NAILS
from page 26
their own interpretations to unveil the Bacigalupis’ journey. Borzillo is thrilled with her 18-member dance team. “The dancers really step up where they are needed in rehearsals and come together as a team to get the product right,” she said. “I am extremely blessed to work with such talent.” Following the performance, CaZo will host a Q&A session with the Bacigalupis. “We have never done a Q&A as a part of our shows, but in this instance, I felt it was important to ask questions about what was told to get clarity and to have more insight,” Borzillo said. Along with raising awareness, CaZo is raising funds to benefit those struggling with brain cancer. CaZo is donating $3 from every ticket sold to the National Brain Tumor Society. Borzillo is excited to see the couple’s story come to life on stage and hopes the performance will bring about positive change. “It’s been beautiful to watch. I am excited to use dance as a platform to raise awareness and funds for a good cause. I wanted to create something that is about inspiration, hope, kindness, strength, perseverance and love. That’s what the world needs right now. Maybe Tough as Nails can help with some healing, even if it’s a small amount of people.”
Neighbors
April 2018
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Healthy by Hilary helps busy moms find their Inner Goddess Hilary Rank is helping empower busy moms in their 30s and 40s through her break through Finding Your Inner Goddess for Moms health and wellness support group. Hilary takes a holistic approach to health and wellness that balances fitness, nutrition and mental and emotional mindset training. “I believe that proper exercise and diet are essential to leading a healthy and vibrant life. However, I’ve found that there is also a core emotional and mental aspect that most health and fitness experts simply don’t address.” “That’s a shame to me because it wasn’t until I mastered my own emotional and mental training that I was able to truly be healthy, happy and feel fulfilled. To me, that’s what finding your Inner Goddess is all about.” Despite having a master’s degree in organizational management and previously holding a corporate job at the University of Phoenix, Hilary believes her true passion is helping busy moms find their own Inner Goddess. She started out helping clients in person in the Gilbert, Arizona area. Now she focuses more of her time with an amazing group of students who she communicates with online. “I take an integrative approach to health and wellness. I don’t just teach tactics like what exercises to do and what foods to eat. Those things are absolutely important, but without the
overall system and mental training to stay committed…we often fall short of our goals.” Of course, as a busy mom of 2 lively and energetic boys, Hilary deals with the same day to day stresses and schedule constraints that every mother faces. That’s ultimately what moved her to focus on her online training program. “Moms are probably the busiest people on the planet. My local clients were often struggling to find time to fit their workouts and trainings into their jam-packed schedule.” “With my online format, busy moms can follow a simple and clear fitness, diet, and mindset regime that is custom tailored for their needs and their bodies no matter what their schedule looks like.” A key component of Hilary’s online coaching is the accountability and goal setting aspect that is built right in. Her students have direct access to her and even take part in a free private support community on Facebook that anyone can join. “Any mom can join my Free Facebook group by going to http:// bit.ly/2EGSeaE and answering a couple of easy questions. It’s a fun and supportive community. We all post tips and help each
other out in a positive and engaging way.” Her Finding Your Inner Goddess for Moms online program is not a one-size fits all type of program. “We all have own unique bodies, struggles and circumstances. I work with my clients to make sure we’re creating a customtailored program that will get them to their desired goals and outcomes. More importantly, they will be able to maintain their healthy and vibrant lifestyle long term. All they have to do is find their Inner Goddess and let her shine.” If you’re a busy mom looking to Find Your Inner Goddess and increase your confidence, energy and overall health then you can schedule a FREE 30-minute discovery call with Hilary. Just go to calendly.com/hmrank and schedule a call. “My free discovery calls tend to fill up pretty quickly, so I encourage anyone who is interested to book now rather than later.” You can also follow Healthy by Hilary on Facebook and Instagram @healthybyhilary
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April 2018
Business
www.GilbertSunNews.com
Painting leads to fun at Painting with a Twist STORY AND PHOTOS BY SRIANTHI PERERA
Amber Cisneros of Gilbert loves art and organizing events. The young woman found her ideal business in Painting with a Twist, a place where friends can come together to paint, drink and discover their inner artist. Cisneros recently opened Painting with a Twist Gilbert, located across from the Civic Center in Gilbert Town Square. Arizona’s first outlet in the franchise is located in Tempe. “It gives back to the community, it’s a fun atmosphere and it allows people to relieve the stress of the day,” Cisneros said. “They are away from their cell phones, they get to enjoy fun, games, creating a masterpiece on their own and they get to leave with a painting that they painted themselves.” A class at Painting with a Twist is led by local artists, and guests create a work using paint, brushes and materials provided by the studio. They choose from among 10,000 original pieces of copyrighted artwork, ranging from landscapes, abstracts and cityscapes, to creative renderings of animals, iconic buildings and florals. It also offers five custom art pieces for Gilbert: the Gilbert Historical Museum (HD South), the Gilbert Arizona Temple, Freestone Park, Riparian Preserve and St Anne Roman Catholic Parish. The franchise allows guests to bring their own beverages (the “Twist” in the title) and snacks to enjoy during class. Alcoholic beverages are only allowed after 4 p.m. Cisneros holds a Bachelor of Arts in fine art and studio art. While balancing several art-related jobs post-graduation, she worked as a Painting with a Twist artist in Texas. “I loved it so much,” she said. “I love that they give back to the community. At the time, I was working for a nonprofit and I know the hard work it does entail.” Through the Painting with a Purpose program, the company donates 50 percent of proceeds to local organizations and charities each month. “It’s great for the community,” said Cisneros, who returned to the town last year because she felt “Gilbert seemed like home.” Painting with a Twist was created by Cathy Deano and Renee Maloney in Mandeville, Louisiana. The two friends, joined by others, painted in a barn to forget for even a few hours that they had lost everything during Hurricane Katrina. This fateful incident eventually turned into a successful business formula and now is reportedly the na-
Amber Cisneros has opened the town’s first Painting with a Twist franchise.
Painting with a Twist is located at Gilbert Town Square
tion’s original and largest paint-and-sip franchise. In Gilbert, Cisneros has hired five artists and is managing the studio full-time. “I was hoping to bring a creative party for Gilbert and I’ll see where it goes,” she said.
Participants have at least 10,000 pieces of artwork to choose from, including these sights from Gilbert.
Painting with a Twist Gilbert is at 1094 S. Gilbert Road, suite 106 in Gilbert Town Square. Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Friday and noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. Details: 480-798-1715 or paintingwithatwist.com/studio/gilbert-az
www.GilbertSunNews.com
April 2018
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April 2018
Business
www.GilbertSunNews.com
Hand & Stone spa educates customers based on their needs BY SRIANTHI PERERA
A 36-year career in the oil industry and a frozen shoulder led Anita Rogers to a Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa in Houston, Texas a few years ago. Now retired, the Scottsdale resident has opened an outlet of her favorite spa in Gilbert’s SanTan Village and is looking forward to introducing its healing treatments to local residents. Rogers, who is in her 50s, said that she was stuck by the overall wellness that the spa afforded her. “As I got older, I started listening to my body,” she said. “I found Hand & Stone as a result of that, and saw that it had a great value. I never had a bad experience going there. I was welcome like family, and it really helped me.” Rogers’ last job in the oil industry was running the distribution of clean products for Phillips 66’s 12 refineries across the United States. The refineries had to be offloaded every single day and the product had to be distributed via pipeline, barge and vessel to South America, the Far East and other far-flung areas of the world. It was “a seven days a week kind of job,” she said. Her current occupation does seem the antithesis of her previous life. Hand & Stone has nine squeaky-clean
treatment rooms decorated in blue and grey with soft blankets and dimmed lighting. Several types of massages and facials are offered; including a hot stone massage where heated river stones are combined with massage stones to add heat directly to the body to melt away tension and stress. The facials include a customized neck and shoulder massage in addition to the deep pore cleansing, exfoliation and other components. “I like the calmness of the spa,” Rogers said. “This point in my life, I don’t need that kind of stress any more. I like the fact that this is nice and calm and I can help customers relate to the experience I had and got a lot of benefit... and I’m learning a lot of new things, which I’m enjoying.” Rogers also likes Hand & Stone’s approach to educating the customer about his or her needs and letting them decide on their treatment rather than a hard-sell approach to its products and services. “I would like to go to a spa and have the massage therapist tell me what’s going to help me feel better and what do I really need,” she said. “If I can see the results of what they’re telling me, I’m going to grow to trust them.” “So we educate, we help the customer understand how we can help them. And
(GSN photo by Srianthi Perera)
Anita Rogers, owner of Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa, relishes her new role after a rigorous corporate career.
if they’re interested, they have a great experience here, they want to become (Special to GSN) a repeat customer, we show them how Hand and Stone’s treatment rooms are decorated in we can save them money doing that,” the soothing colors of blue and grey. she added. The spa uses skin care products people, grow and let them promote mainly from Dermalogica and Clarity. within the company,” she said. “This is the Rogers has plans to open more outlets first.” in the Valley, including one in Old Town Scottsdale in May. Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa is at “I like being part of the community. I 2765 S. Market St., Gilbert. Details: 480-237like being able to employ people. I like to 4496 or handandstone.com eventually have four spas so I can develop
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Business
www.GilbertSunNews.com
April 2018
The Baked Bear opens in SanTan Village
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STORY AND PHOTOS BY ALEX WHITTEN
Fresh baked brownies and cookies, cookies served were rows upon rows of ice cream flavors, made anything but and a multitude of candies and topthat day. Nothing is pings; these are all things you can ever sitting around.” expect while visiting The Baked Bear. Stanger and The popular cookie and ice cream Robbins chose Arishop, The Baked Bear, opened its third zona as their first location in SanTan Village recently. state to expand to, This is the franchise’s 21st outlet and as every summer, the Valley’s locations are owned by most of their outAnthony and Ginger Velez. of-town customers Ginger Velez said they chose the were from Arizona. Gilbert mall due to its foot traffic and (The franchise is recommendations from customers at also available in their Scottsdale and Tempe locations. seven other states “Everybody’s been telling me to go across the country.) to SanTan,” Velez said. “I like how many “Every summer people are out here.” we’d ask ‘where are The inviting shop is decorated in you from’ and probthe franchise’s blue and white accents, ably a third of them along with many cookie-related décor were from Arizona,” elements. Stanger said. “We The Baked Bear originated in 2013 at Pacific Beach in San Diego, California and was founded by childhood pals Rob Robbins and Shane Stanger. They came up with the idea after both completed college The Baked Bear’s entrance to its new Gilbert location, complete and got employment, with the brand’s signature ice cream sandwich and bear mascot. and realized they would rather be their own bosses. sundaes, a ‘Bear Bowl’ of slightly baked “His dad has a background Guests have The Baked Bear’s most popular dessert amongst guests is the custom cookie dough with a choice of ice in the restaurant industry, I had near-unlimited options ice cream sandwiches. They can choose from a variety of cookies, a background in business and when it comes to combin- cream flavor to top it, root beer floats, ice cream flavors, and toppings to make their dream dessert. brownies and cookies. marketing,” Stanger said. ing the many cookie and Looking to the future, Velez plans Before their official opening, ice cream flavors with a to expand the franchise to the West the two spent a lot of time in Robhad this pretty big Arizona following.” multitude of toppings, and the option bins’ father’s bakery, learning how to When it comes to dessert comof hot pressing them so the cookies are Valley. make cookies. To this day, the company bos, The Baked Bear has a plethora of extra warm. teaches every baker how to make their choices. The most popular option for Velez said that her favorite combinaThe Baked Bear is at 2206 E. Williams Field cookies. guests is to make their own ice cream tion consists of a brownie, chocolate Road, Suite 118 in SanTan Village, Gilbert. “We make every cookie, all original sandwiches, with choices like the chip cookies and salted caramel fudge Details: 480-912-8954 or thebakedbear. recipes,” Stanger said. “Every single cookie sandwich, brownie sandwich, ice cream. com/gilbert. store has its own bakery and bakers. No donut sandwich and combos. The Baked Bear also offers hot fudge
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LGE Design Build has broken ground on Gilbert Collision Center.
(Special to GSN)
Gilbert Collision Center under construction BY GSN CONTRIBUTOR
LGE Design Build of Phoenix has begun construction on Gilbert Collision Center, part of the AutoNation Group. It’s located on 4.75 acres at 2190 S. Douglas Drive in Chandler, southeast of Germann and Gilbert road, just across from the Gilbert border. The facility will serve as an auto body repair center that will repair dents, scratches and vehicle panels as well as offer painting services. The two-story, just over 30,000-squarefeet project is planned for completion in November. It will be Gilbert Collision Center’s third location in the Valley. The first floor will house day-to-day operations and will include a reception and lobby area, offices to house estimating and adjusters as well as an
employee break room. The second floor will serve as a corporate office for all Valley locations and will feature executive suites and a conference room. Construction materials will include painted concrete tilt panels, metal louvers, low-E tinted glazing and exposed steel to achieve a distinctive aesthetic for the facility. “The building design, colors and materials have a cohesive palette that maintain consistency throughout both the site and building elevations while complimenting the surrounding area,” said John Mocarski, architect with LGE Design Group, the project’s architectural firm. “The color palette will blend the tenant’s identity with a classic but modern corporate elegance.”
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DONATION TO YOUTH: Lauren’s Institute For Education (L.I.F.E.), a special center dedicated to educating developmentally disabled children in Gilbert, was recently the recipient of an award of $50,000 from Firstbank. The nation’s third largest privately held bank with numerous banking locations in Arizona announced that it has donated $500,000 to multiple youth education nonprofits recently. In the photo (from left), Joel Johnson, FirstBank East Valley Market President; Justin Perkins, FirstBank assistant vice president and Carrie Reed, president and co-founder of Lauren’s Institute For Education are shown during the check presentation. The school is at 1305 S. Gilbert Road. Details: laurensinstitute.org.
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Business
April 2018
33
‘The Cozy Peach’ is Queen Creek’s first accommodation BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY
Known primarily for peaches, hayrides and fresh produce, Queen Creek’s Schnepf Farms is now branching out with the town’s first overnight accommodations. The new offering is called The Cozy Peach – a reference to the farm’s status as the largest peach grower in Arizona – and features eight vintage trailers guests can rent from Wednesday through Sunday. As the first overnight accommodations in Queen Creek, The Cozy Peach will be the first business to contribute lodging tax, also called bed tax, to the (Special to GSN) town. Queen Creek first adopted a bed ‘Glamping’ is glamorous camping and Schnepf Farms’ tax during farm owner Mark Schnepf’s version comprises renovated vintage trailers. tenure as mayor. “Back in the 1990s when I was a hotel on the farm for several years but mayor, we knew there would be a day when couldn’t put it together,” Schnepf said. hotels and accommodations would come He said that his wife Carrie Schnepf to Queen Creek, though we thought it came up with the idea to go in the direcwould be sooner,” he said. tion of “glamping,” a relatively new branch He added, “I am happy to pay the bed of hospitality that combines camping with tax, and I am hopeful that the town will resort-style amenities. take that (money) and future bed tax collecThe trailers include Airstreams, Spartans tions to promote tourism in Queen Creek.” and Silver Streaks from the 1940s through Schnepf said that the farm receives more 1970s that are on the 300-acre Schnepf than 250,000 visitors a year, most of whom Farm site. The couple bought the first trailer come from out of town. more than a year ago and has spent the “We were working on a concept for intervening months renovating them with a
(Special to GSN)
There are eight trailers, dating from the 1940s to the 1970s, and six are ready for use.
licensed contractor they have on staff. “Some of them were pretty rough (when we bought them),” Mark Schnepf said. Though no one will confuse The Cozy Peach for a Hilton or Marriott, the Schnepfs spent considerable time and money turning the vintage trailers into high-end accommodations. They feature flat-screen televisions and plush bedding and also include private bonfires and barbecues. Each trailer cost between $5,000 and $10,000 and a substantial investment was made to renovate them.
The farm will offer “trailer service,” similar to a hotel’s room service, and have breakfast or lunch delivered right to their trailers. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the farm on rentable Schwinn bicycles and pick fresh vegetables at the UPICK Organic Garden or order a picnic basket from the farm bakery. “It’s the perfect fit here on the farm,” Mark Schnepf said. Details: schnepffarms.com
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Business
April 2018
www.GilbertSunNews.com
Treating airline pilots a specialty of this doctor BY MELODY BIRKETT
Psychology major, commercial pilot, flight instructor and wellness doctor. Dr. Eric Shreder combines his varied background into one medical practice called Full Circle Health near the Mesa/ Gilbert line. “It’s a med spa-like environment but we do bio-identical hormones, aesthetics, IV therapies, CoolSculpting, anti-aging medicine, laser, Botox, injectables and facial fillers, regenerative medicine, and weight loss,” Shreder said. Although he treats patients from all walks of life and professions, many of Shredder’s clients are airline pilots. “I see thousands and thousands of airline pilots and air traffic controllers every year,” Shreder said, adding: “I’m involved with the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) program called the HIMS program, the Human Intervention Motivation Study program, which gets pilots who have problems with drugs and alcohol back into the cockpit. It also helps pilots with depression issues back into the cockpit on antidepressants and so forth.” Pilots attracted his attention while he was studying for his master’s degree in psychology. “I got interested in pilot vision in graduate school and did a lot of research
in dynamic visual acuity and so forth and far as I do a lot of surgeries in the office,” that got me into the whole pilot field,” he explaining, “I do a lot of orthopedic sports explained. injury type stuff with knee lubricant injecHe got his first job after graduate tions, steroid injections.” school in Wichita, Kansas as a cockpit “I do a lot of dermatology. I take design engineer at Boeing. off a lot of skin cancers. So pretty “I worked on advanced R&D much conventional as far as that. programs, advanced displays and I’m treating the blood pressure and controls to be integrated into new diabetes and all that stuff. But really cockpit designs,” Shreder said. in the last seven or eight years, we’ve After a few years, he went to been putting a lot of emphasis on getDouglas Aircraft in California, ting training in aesthetics.” where he worked on cockShreder is a member of the pit controls. American Association of AntiAfter that, Shreder Aging Medicine. “I don’t want learned the helicopter to become a victim of the disbusiness at Falcon Field eases I’m treating. So, my idea Airport in Mesa, workis I’m going to learn these ing on the Apaches and things for me and my family (Special to GSN) the MD-80 Explorer in Dr. Eric Shreder, a commercial pilot and then help my patients the daytime and teachand certified flight instructor, helps to slow the aging process.” ing engineers how to He also provides inpilots with depression issues back fly at Falcon Field in the into the cockpit. office detox for people evenings. hooked on heroin and pills, Around that time, layoffs hit the aerobut his passion is in treating pilots. space industry and, after 10 years in the “Part of my job has been to convince aviation industry, Shreder went to medical airline pilots is that they’re mortal too,” school. Shreder said. “There has been this tradition In 2000, at age 34, he started practicing to not have the aviation medical examiner both traditional and natural medicine. be your regular doctor. What I try to do is He calls his practice “very traditional as to convince them that prevention is the
way to go and let me be their regular doc.” A commercial pilot and certified flight instructor, Shreder has his own airplane and enjoys flying to Flagstaff every weekend. “I’m actively out there, talking to the air traffic controllers that I might have just had in for a flight physical,” he said. “So, I’m part of the industry and they know it. They know I’ve been involved in the cockpit design aspects of it. They know I’ve been up there and do it.” “I think I’m more relatable and I can kind of understand some of the gray areas I think better than a lot of other docs.” Whether you’re a pilot or in another profession, Shreder said exercise is important in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. “You have to make time for exercise. I exercise every day. Every day of my life. I have not missed a full day of work in 20 years. It’s not just because I’m a business owner and I got to be here.” “The fact I get up every morning, I do my calisthenics, my run with my dog, I do my exercise, I live what I like to have my patients live,” he added. “In other words, I don’t tell them to do something I wouldn’t do myself. No one will take me seriously if I was way out of shape or didn’t appear like I care.” Information: fullcircleaz.com.
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Give feet the care they deserve! With the weather warming up, there is no shortage of activities to keep you on your feet. To make sure you aren’t holding everyone back, now’s a good time to address any foot or ankle pain. Many patients visit after waiting weeks or months with concerns, not knowing if it’s important enough for a Dr. Gregory Rowe visit to the podiatrist. We enjoy working with all ages and are just as passionate about working with high end athletes as we are with those who are more sedentary to find a solution to their pain and keep them moving. Among the conditions we commonly address: • • • • •
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April 2018
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Crankin’ up the calcium!
3
4 5
Photos by Kimberly Carrillo
Arizona Dairy Farmers and the Dairy Council of Arizona brought their nationally acclaimed rock & roll nutrition show, “Crank Up the Calcium! Jump with Jill,” to three schools in Gilbert recently. Through
music and dance, the students were encouraged to make healthy choices for themselves. Here, the students at Burk Elementary are advised to tune in to their bone health by getting three servings of dairy every day.
1. Kaylee Rohland enjoys her time at the assembly.
6. Edgar Lopez, Payten Martinez and Paige Sanchez follow the moves at the assembly.
2. Roxanne Gibson and Gus Hawkins are responding positively to the rock & roll part of the event.
7. It took an enormous microphone for Jill to teach the students about nutrition.
3. Joey Estrada was called up on stage to join the others. 4. DJ Slick Nick. 5. Jump with Jill presenter delivers her message on the bone building crew: milk, cheese, and yogurt.
7
8. Charlotte Kowanetz, Easton White and Karl Hernandez follow the hand moves.
6
9. Michael Guardado and Evan Roccuzzo were called up on stage to dance with other kids and Jill.
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April 2018
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Conservation theme of Gilbert Water Festival STORY AND PHOTOS BY ERIC NEWMAN
Nearly 1,700 fourth graders from Gilbert Public Schools came to Gilbert Civic Center grounds on March 7 and 8 to splash, pour and learn all about one of Arizona’s most important resources at the Gilbert Water Festival. In its 7th year, the festival was designed by Arizona Project WET, a unit of the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension. Groups of students visited various tents for water conservation-themed lessons that aligned with the content they are learning in school. The four interactive stations were focused on water conservation, watershed, groundwater and the water cycle, all of which, Gilbert water conservation specialist Annikki Chamberlain said, are extremely important lessons to learn at a young age. “Living in Arizona, already in an arid climate, our water resources come from a long way away, and these kids are going to be the future residents of Arizona, so it’s really trying to ingrain that conservation culture as they grow up,” she said. Volunteers guided the students through water relay races, bracelet-making stations and model mountains to understand the principles of erosion, among other topics. Each was focused toward helping the students become conscious about water
conservation. Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels said the festival, along with the classroom lessons, was foundational knowledge that may lead to further interest in science and technology, fields in which water is paramount. “They can actually see the way water works, and the volunteers are so passionate about the subject, so you can see how interested it makes the kids, in turn; it makes a big difference in the learning and absorption of material,” she said. Many of the volunteers were experts working in earth science and water conservation, and could effectively teach the students important lessons they could not learn from just a textbook. GPS Superintendent Shane McCord said he hopes the festival’s style of interactive learning is just the start of a trend that sees more hands-on lessons, especially for younger students who are eager to get out of the classroom whenever possible. “Water conservation in our state is always something we’re concerned about. And having our students come out here, with a
curriculum that aligns with the Arizona state standards and have a set of lessons that are hands-on and actually talk to individuals who have experience in that field,” he said, “it’s about the best type of education our students can get.” And, from all accounts, the teachers appreciate the lessons too, as the children return to the classroom reinvigorated and eager to continue the learning. “I think the teachers have a limited time and a lot of stuff that the kids need to learn,” Chamberlain said. “By doing it hands-on, during a short, but intense field trip, it maximizes the limited time with the kids. And, since it’s
fun, the kids will remember it too.” If the hundreds of fourth graders walk away with just one lesson, it should be an understanding of just how fortunate they are to have readily-available water, despite such a dry climate, and how much effort it takes to make that possible, said volunteer Kara Holyoak. “Some places in the world, there are people that are walking miles and miles to get water that we here might not even touch,” she added. “We’re really lucky, but there’s so much work that goes into that. We don’t just have it; we have it because people are working at it all the time.”
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April 2018
Youth
www.GilbertSunNews.com
14-year-old a finalist in national photo contest BY GSN CONTRIBUTOR
San Tan Charter School photography for years eighth-grader Desiree Fredand with encouragement rick was honored by Photogfrom my family, friends rapher’s Forum Magazine’s and teachers, it gave me Best of High School and confidence.” College Photography contest Desiree is inspired by as one of the top up-andnature, she said. coming photographers in the “Whenever I take time country. to look at the environThe national photography ment around me, I’m mesmagazine hosts a contest merized by how beautiful annually to identify the top it is,” she said. “I always high school and college phomake it a point to capture tographers in the country. its beauty so I can relive Desiree, 14, submitted and remember it.” (Special to GSN) six photos and one of her The Photographer’s FoDesiree Fredrick nature photos was selected rum Best of High School and she was named a finalist and College Photography in the high school contest. She will have book will be published in June. her photo displayed in the Photographer’s Desiree’s photo can be found Forum contest book highlighting entries at: http://pfmagazine.com/wpfrom the winners, finalists and honorable content/plugins/p-gallery/index. mention honorees. php?level=picture&id=1001877 “When I was informed I was a finalist I was very surprised,” Desiree said. “KnowDetails: pfmagazine.com ing about all the potential experienced talent from high schools and colleges everywhere made me think my chances of Desiree’s nature photo received an honorable mention. even being an honorable mention recipient were a little dim. However, I’ve loved
(Special to GSN)
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April 2018
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Leading Edge Academy clinches basketball victory BY GSN CONTRIBUTOR
Leading Edge Academy Gilbert won the 2018 Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) 2A Girls Basketball State Championship in a 50-44 victory over Sedona Red Rock High School at the Prescott Valley Event Center in February. The Lady Spartans captured the title with a season record of 27-4. This is the second year as a member of the AIA and also the second year Leading Edge has competed for a state title in Girls Basketball. The Lady Spartans were defeated in the finals by Valley High School, Sanders. “I am so happy for our girls and our program to compete and win a state championship,” said Coach Erik Gray. “I am especially excited for our six seniors as they are able to end their high school careers with a state title. “Our talk all season has been about getting back to the game and finishing what we started last year. The girls all rose to the occasion this year and refused to let the season end the way it did in 2017,” he added. Leading offensively for the Lady Spartans in the title game were Jasmine McKinney (15 points), Prima Chellis (13 points), and Halle Price (11 points). Defensively Emily Broos, Daija Sample and
HUNTERS
•
(Special to GSN)
(From left): Coach Erik Gray, Mariah Estrada, Coach Justin Quarles, Hannah Austin, Zeri Tewart, Ariana Clavell, Daija Sample, Karla DeLaVega, Jasmine McKinney, Prima Chellis, Emily Broos, Ashley Broos, Morgan Smith, Carlee Smith, Halle Price and Coach Jeremy Basham.
Mariah Estrada did an exceptional job limiting Sedona’s potent offense to only three first half field goals. The Spartans took a 15 point lead in the 2nd quarter but the Sedona Scorpions clawed back and cut the lead to two in the fourth quarter. Late baskets
JUMPERS
•
by Prima Chellis, Emily Broos and Daija Sample helped to seal the victory and secure Leading Edge Academy’s first state championship in any sport since joining the AIA in 2016. The school was previously a member of the Canyon Athletic Association where
it won five consecutive girls basketball titles starting in 2012. Leading Edge Academy Gilbert Early College is at 717 W. Ray Road, Gilbert. Details: leadingedgeacademy.com/new/ gilbert-early-college/
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Youth
April 2018
HIGLEY HAPPENINGS
SUBMITTED BY MICHELLE REESE
Arts Festival coming up
The Williams Field High School wrestling team finished fourth in state competition.
The district wins sports titles As the third quarter of school came to a close for Higley Unified School District, a number of athletic teams completed successful seasons: Higley High girls soccer team won the 4A Desert Sky Region title. Higley High boys basketball team became the 4A Desert Sky Region runner-up champion. Jason Harris and Shon Robinson earned all-region first team recognition. Kyle White earned all-region second team recognition. Cooley Middle School girls basketball
team won the East Valley Conference title. Williams Field boys basketball won the 5A San Tan Region title. Nick Cupp-Allen was named Player of the Year in the Region and Coach Erik Kamrath was named Coach of the Year. Duan Tate earned allregion first team recognition. Jake Lowell earned all-region second team recognition. Williams Field wrestling won the Division II section IV wrestling championship and finished fourth at state. Two Black Hawks won individual state titles: Nathan Smith and Shaun’dell Hawkins.
The third annual Higley Fine Arts Festival will be held 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, April 14 at Higley High School and the Higley Center for the Performing Arts, at 4068 E. Pecos Road in Gilbert. The festival brings together student and community performing groups, as well as showcases student artwork from across the district. Hundreds of youth performers will dance, sing and act, while high school, middle school and elementary school jazz, drum, band and choir groups will show their skills. Local groups performing include the Chandler-Gilbert Community College Hip-Hop dance group, Actors Youth Theater and the Bracken Irish Dancers. In addition, there will be hands-on arts activities for children, live artwork exhibits and food available for purchase from food trucks. The event is free of charge and open to the public.
www.GilbertSunNews.com
Junior named Carson Scholar
Higley High junior Brianna Fratella is a 2018 Carson Scholar. The Carson Scholars Fund, which began in 1996, received hundreds of applications in the fall and selected 501; each recipient gets a $1,000 scholarship. These scholarships are awarded to the (Special to GSN) “country’s best Brianna Fratella and brightest” for demonstrating kindness toward others and academics. Students are also selected based on their community service and school achievement. Brianna is considering studying economics or attending law school. She is also Higley High’s Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership delegate this summer.
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April 2018
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Youth
April 2018
www.GilbertSunNews.com
NEWS AROUND SCHOOLS
San Tan names football coaches San Tan Charter School of Gilbert, after its 2017 CAA D1 State Football Championship, is moving to 11-man for the 2018 school year. Over the past few months, Principal Kristofer Sippel has been assembling the best football coaching staff he can find. Super Bowl XLI Champion Darrell Reid will be the Varsity Tackle Head Coach as well as oversee all football operations, the principal announced. The school has also secured All-American linebacker Stephen Walker, All-Big Ten running back Terry Jackson and former NFL player Brian Echols as assistant coaches. Details: santancharterschool.com.
Youth of the Year award Queen Creek High School senior Tyler Ruof was named the 2018 ‘Youth of the Year’ at the recent Boys and Girls Club Blue Carpet award reception. Tyler beat eight other nominees from Boys and Girls Club branches around the Valley. In his six years as a member of the club, Tyler has estab-
lished a strong foundation for impacting the younger generation of club members. As a staff member, Tyler has used his creative energy and pursuits to develop engaging programs and activities that promote global consciousness and awareness. Developing leadership abilities in the club has been a tremendous experience that has taught him a great deal about personal dynamics and cultural influence, he said. Tyler plans to pursue his undergraduate studies at The Barrett Honors College at Arizona State University in the fall.
Queen Creek Arts Festival Visual art and music will be the focus during the Queen Creek Arts Festival, a districtwide annual event starting 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 21 at the cafeteria and courtyard of Queen Creek High School. There will be visual art pieces on display, and students will play musical selections from choirs, bands and orchestras and specialty ensembles. Students from Queen Creek High School will perform Legally Blonde, The Musical, 7 p.m. at the Queen Creek Performing Arts center.
Lifelong Learning awards The Arizona Association for Lifelong Learning (AALL), the state’s adult literacy association, has selected Queen Creek Unified School District and Adult Education Program ambassador Maria Alvidrez as this year’s lifelong learning winners. The AALL 2018 Champion of the Year award is given to the person or entity outside of adult education who/ which has championed adult learners and adult programs in the state. The Queen Creek district was chosen because of its commitment to adult education in large and small ways: its governing board and administration have always made certain the program had a home there, board members and administrators continue to support the program and students in a many ways, including consistently attending events and visiting classes. The Student of the Year, Maria Alvidrez, has represented Arizona adult education students in Washington, D.C., and has demonstrated leadership and contributed to the field of lifelong learning.
(Special to GSN)
(Front row, from left): Chandler-Gilbert Community College students Kimberly Redding, Amanda Acuña, Lauren Allison and Heather Robinson were honored as 2018 All-Arizona Academic recipients recently at the Phoenix/Mesa Hilton. (Back row, from left): Joining the recipients at the special event were Zolia TovarBlank, psychology faculty member; Dr. William Guerriero, CGCC interim president; Ryan Cain, Phi Theta Kappa advisor; and Jessica Dwork, nursing faculty member.
CGCC’s All-Arizona Academic awards Chandler-Gilbert Community College has selected four recipients for the 2018 All-Arizona Academic Team. Amanda Acuña, Lauren Allison, Kimberly Redding and Heather Robinson were among the 79 Arizona community college students to be honored for their academic success, commitment to service and leadership. Acuña plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in biology at Arizona State University; Redding is working towards a bachelor’s degree in fine arts with a minor in behavioral psychology at Arizona State University; Allison plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in applied science aviation at Arizona
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State University and Robinson is working on a bachelor’s degree in nursing at Northern Arizona University and hopes to become a labor and delivery nurse at Mercy Gilbert Hospital. To be considered for the All-Arizona Academic Team, students must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale, be in good academic standing, be working towards completion of an associate degree, demonstrate leadership and actively volunteer on campus or within their communities. In addition to being recognized, each student winner received an academic scholarship and tuition waiver to one of Arizona’s three universities.
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Weathering it in space
Youth
April 2018
45
TEXT BY DAWN ANTESTENIS/ PHOTOS BY EDUARDO BARRAZA, GILBERT PUBLIC SCHOOLS
The Mesquite High School Aerospace Engineering program worked on a high altitude weather balloon since the start of the school year. In February, they launched the balloon and payload, which reached an altitude of over 100,000 feet before the balloon burst and the payload parachuted back to earth. The students monitored the temperature and pressure of the atmosphere as the balloon ascended in an experiment to see if the actual temperature and pressure matched their mathematical models. They also had a GoPro filming out of the side and another pointing straight down. At that altitude, they were able to see the curvature of the earth and the blackness of space. The students named the balloon and payload The Zephyr, after the gentle west wind. Zak Bramwell, a senior, trained and tested for his Amateur (HAM) Radio License and with his call sign, tracked
the weather balloon. Student Jenna Kelley designed the Zephyr logo. Seniors who have been in the program for all four years were given the honor of putting an item in the payload. Along with the experiment, they launched some personal items that the students will be able to keep knowing they have been to the edge of space. Items included an action figure, some miniature astronauts and an owl pendant hitching along for the journey.
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Spiritual Connections The Bridge Church 645 N. Gilbert Road, Suite 180, Gilbert 480-294-7888 bridgechurchaz.org Service: 10 a.m. Sundays We exist to help people know God and become everything God created them to be. We do this by helping people begin a relationship with God, grow in that relationship to find freedom from the struggles they experience, discover the purpose for which God made them and live out their purpose to make a difference in the church and in the world.
Spirituality
First United Methodist Church of Gilbert 331 S. Cooper Road, Gilbert 480-892-9166 gilbertumc.org Services: 8 and 9:30 a.m. (traditional services) and 11 a.m. (contemporary service) Sundays The two traditional services feature the Chancel choir and traditional worship. The 11 a.m. service has a contemporary feel, with music from the Praise Band. The 9:30 a.m. service generally has the largest attendance. Gilbert Presbyterian Church 235 E. Guadalupe Road, Gilbert 480-892-6753 azgpc.org Services: 8:30 and 11 a.m. Sundays Gilbert Presbyterian Church is called to be a Christ-centered covenant family nurtured by the Holy Spirit to worship God and to share God’s love. The Lawrence Memorial AME Zion Church 1141 E. Guadalupe Road, Gilbert 480-772-3603 Services: 10:15 a.m. Sunday; Bible study is 6:30 p.m. Tuesday The Lawrence Memorial Church is a contemporary church. We are a multicultural church that is simply looking to reach the unreachable with love.
Central Christian Church-Gilbert 965 E. Germann Road, Gilbert centralaz.com Services: 4 and 5:30 p.m. Saturdays; 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and noon Sundays While the Bible itself is the church’s official document of faith, the website lists a variety of statements that fundamentally define the church. Please visit the website for more information.
Living Water United Methodist Fellowship Highland Park Elementary School 230 N. Cole Dr., Gilbert livingwaterum.org Services: 10 a.m. Sundays Living Water exists to bring people in to meet Christ, build people up to follow Christ and send people out to share Christ.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 3301 S. Greenfield Road, Gilbert 480-822-5000 lds.org
Mission Community Church 4450 E. Elliot Road, Gilbert 480-545-4024 mission68.org Services: 4 and 6 p.m. Saturdays and 9, 10:30 and 11:59 a.m. Sundays
A Sermon Series on The Life and Ministry of Jesus in the Gospels
Sundays at 10:00 am New Location 645 N Gilbert Rd, Suite 180 Gilbert, AZ 85234 (Southeast corner of Gilbert & Guadalupe, south of EVDI) Pastor Kent Bertrand 480.294.7888 www.bridgechurchaz.org
The Bible is God’s word to all people. It was written by human authors under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. Because it is inspired by God, it is truth and without error in the original manuscripts. Redemption Gilbert 1820 W. Elliot Road, Gilbert 480-632-2220 gilbert.redemptionaz.com/about/ a-brief-overview/ Services: 8, 9:30 and 11 a.m. Sundays Gospel means good news, but it is truly the most profound and glorious truth ever revealed. It is not advice, nor is it a system or philosophy to add to the congregants’ lives. It is an exclusive truth claim, a holistic worldview, the true story of the whole world, which by its very nature must redefine and recolor everything else. Resurrection Episcopal Church Meets at Gilbert Community Center, 130 N. Oak St., Gilbert 480-719-5343 resurrectiongilbert.org Services: 10 a.m. Sundays Resurrection officials say the congregation is a church you can believe in because you belong. This means it welcomes and embraces all people because God already has. Come for worship, fellowship and Bible study on Sundays and join the group on a spiritual journey to better understand God’s plan for our lives.
San Tan Bible Church 1424 S. Promenade Lane, Gilbert Starting January 8th, 2017, Phone number N/A please join us as we work throughsantanbible.org the Services: 8:30 a.m. (Bible hour); 9:30 Community Bible Experience together, a.m. (Café 2:42) and 10 a.m. worship as a church family! service Sundays The church believes the glory of God is the chief end of all we do. E. Guadalupe Rd.
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Two Rivers Church 326 E. Guadalupe Road, Gilbert 480-892-2435, 2riverschurch.org Services: 6 p.m. Saturdays; and 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. (Spanish) Sundays Two Rivers Church exists to help lead congregants into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ by encouraging and equipping them to love God intimately and serve others. It has a casual environment with a serious faith. Sun Valley Community Church 456 E. Ray Road, Gilbert 480-632-8920 sunvalleycc.com Services: 4 and 5:30 p.m. Saturdays and 9, 10:30 and 11:59 a.m. Sundays The atmosphere is casual and friendly at Sun Valley Community Church. It places high value on authentic Christian living and placing Christ at the center of all our teachings. The church also offers worship music that is current and uplifting, along with focused weekend sermons that break down the Bible in a way that makes it easy to connect the word of God with today’s busy life.
N. Gilbert Rd.
Vineyard Community Church 601 S. Cooper Road, Gilbert 480-892-5828 vineyardaz.com Services: 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sundays Vineyard Community is a casual, friendly and inviting church. Its desire is to be a safe place where people’s lives are being transformed by Christ in community for the world. T he diverse community of Christ-followers seeks the radical in-breaking of the kingdom of God here and now. Followers worship God with the intention of touching Heaven and changing Earth.
April 2018
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Tour Our Vibrant Growing Campus • Student-guided tours start every hour at the ARC, Monday – Saturday • Preview the state-of-the-art STEM building and high-tech labs, suite-style residence halls, GCU Stadium, Thunder Alley, Lopes Way and more!
• Explore more than 200 academic degree programs and discover the right major for you • Meet with an admissions counselor to discuss financial options and scholarship opportunities
PRIVATE. CHRISTIAN. AFFORDABLE. Visit gcu.edu/GoGCU for more info! For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program and other important information, please visit our website at gcu.edu/disclosures. Please note, not all GCU programs are available in all states and in all learning modalities. Program availability is contingent on student enrollment. Grand Canyon University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (800-621-7440; http://hlcommission.org/). Important policy information is available in the University Policy Handbook at https://www.gcu.edu/academics/academic-policies.php GCU, while reserving its lawful rights in light of its Christian mission, is committed to maintaining an academic environment that is free from unlawful discrimination. Further detail on GCU’s Non-Discrimination policies can be found at gcu.edu/titleIX The information printed in this material is accurate as of February 2018. For the most up-to-date information about admission requirements, tuition, scholarships and more, visit gcu.edu ©2018 Grand Canyon University 18GTR0070
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April 2018
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Emerging photographers in Art Intersection show BY SRIANTHI PERERA
They are emerging photographers, but hardly novices in their chosen field. Their work is sophisticated, serious and often offers a complex message. These are the student photographers of Arizona enrolled in high schools, community colleges, art schools and universities across the state who receive additional exposure beyond academia when they participate in Gilbert-based Art Intersection’s annual Emerge Student Photography exhibition. This year it’s slated for May 1-26. “In this exhibition, we offer student photographers an opportunity to show their work in a professional gallery, fulfilling our mission to support early-career photographers,” said Alan Fitzgerald, owner of Art Intersection. Participants may range in age from high school students to seniors; the only requirement is that they are photography students. “The work is always representative of the finest emerging student photographers in Arizona,” said Fitzgerald, whose gallery is organizing this for the eighth year. Charlene Stant Engel, artist and show sponsor, said that he looks forward to it because “Every year it is fresh and unexpected.” “It always makes me smile to see the work of so many intense and talented young artists. To them I say: Let nothing stop you. Keep making art!” he said. Tempe resident Ashley Czajkowski, a photography-based artist who works in a number of interdisciplinary methods, will jury Emerge. She herself was featured in “Next Level,” an exhibition at Art Intersection in 2015, and has also assisted in work-
1. “Walmart” by Fabioo Thomas of Williams Field High School from the Emerge exhibit in 2017.
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2. Best of High School was awarded to Kymber Derrick of Williams Field High School for “Head Full of Dreams” in 2017. 3. Honorable Mention was awarded to Brooke Wright of Mesa Community College for “Modern Art” in 2017. 4. Best of Show was awarded to Davey Lee S. Miller of Pima Community College, Tucson for palladium print “Dysphoria 3” in 2017.
shops previously. Czajkowski will examine about 400 images submitted from approximately 150 photographers and select the 100 or so that will comprise the show and the online gallery. 3 What does she look for? “In curating work for any show, I typically look for images which make me pause. Images that force me to slow down, even for a second, and ask questions,” she said. “For me, this is the best kind of artwork; images that don’t necessarily provide answers, but rather provoke questions.” Czajkowski, who works in video, installation, and alternative print processes, said
1 that an underlying message would be integral to a piece. “Though I am very aesthetically driven, I find photographs that are only beautiful quite boring,” she said. “We live in an image saturated society, so gorgeous sunset photographs are a dime a dozen – just ask Penelope Umbrico, a contemporary artist who makes immersive image collages from appropriated photographs of sunsets on flickr. “So, instead, I look for images that are striking aesthetically but also reveal some conceptual depth, and idea or a message.”
(Photos special to GSN)
In addition to the exposure, chosen Emerge participants also receive prizes for Best in Show ($250 sponsored by Through Each Other’s Eyes, a Phoenix-founded nonprofit that encourages people around the world to understand and appreciate diverse cultures through photography); Best of Post-High School ($100 sponsored by Charlene Stant Engel); and Best of High School ($100 sponsored by artists/art patrons Kelly and Dennis Collins). Emerge will be on display May 1-26 at Art Intersection, 207 N. Gilbert Road #201, Gilbert. Opening Reception is from 5-8 p.m. Saturday, May 5. Details: 480-361-1118 or artintersection.com.
Gilbert skater on the ice with ‘Frozen’ BY CATHERINE HATHAWAY
Logan Weaver discovered skating in a “pretty weird way:” Weird, but it worked. The Gilbert resident now appears as a citizen of Arendelle in Disney on Ice Presents Frozen, which plays at Talking Stick Resort Arena from Thursday, April 12, to Sunday, April 15. “When I was 13, I went to a public skating session,” Weaver said. “It was really fun. It was just a cool feeling to be out there on the ice, so I asked (my parents) if, as a Christmas present, I could take skating lessons.” The next day he hit the ice and has been skating for about 10 years. That was in Washington State, where he graduated early from high school. He moved to Arizona to train with Olympic silver medalist Ben Agosto. “Most of my career, I was competing all over the country,” Weaver said. “I
always liked performing “In Summer,” a song by more than skating. It althe quirky and loveable ways would bring me more Olaf the snowman. He joy to perform for people is accompanied by bees than being judged on a that buzz and dandelion performance.” fuzz. He also enjoys his Performing with Disney moments skating with is a dream come true. He Arendelle citizens. pursued employment Weaver said one of the by submitting audition biggest job perks isn’t a tapes before he was 18. “perk” at all. It’s hearing On Agosto’s recommendachildren sing, cheer and tion, Weaver auditioned light up when they see (Photo special to GSN) for Disney in Phoenix on their favorite characters or Performing with Disney is a dream his 20th birthday with his come true for Logan Weaver. hear a familiar tune. current cast. “That’s something that “It was amazing,” Weaver said. “It was continues to drive the job for me,” Weavso fun. I had a great time. It was hard, but er said. “That’s one of the main reasons I it was an experience I won’t forget.” come in to work. I love the job and seeing He was hired, and he’s been gliding the kids really makes up for anything that along since then. His favorite scene is is not amazing.”
This is not Weaver’s first time performing with Feld Entertainment. He also spent time with Ringing Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. He melds his warm-up routine with his circus talents. “Well, before a lot of shows, I like to juggle,” Weaver said. “You’ve got to put on your make-up. You’ve got to do a 15-minute warm up. That is just part of my routine before every show. Most of the time, I just like to relax and get myself in the mindset of, you know, being the best character I can be.”
Disney on Ice Presents Frozen will be at various times from Thursday, April 12, to Sunday, April 15 at Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix. Tickets start at $10. Details: 602-379-2000 or talkingstickresort.com.
Arts
www.GilbertSunNews.com
April 2018
All the world’s a stage at Gilbert Global Village Festival, where Chinese lion dancers frolic during a performance last year.
(Photos special to GSN)
Global Village Fest provides common ground for cultures
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Youngsters dressed in Hawaiian garb perform their moves.
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About 21 groups will participate, offering entertainment, education or a mix of both. The Japanese group Tomono Kai has been invited to be grand marshals for the Parade of Nations to acknowledge their 10-year commitment to the festival. The parade features school-age children bearing the flags of the United Nations, town dignitaries, Gilbert Days Rodeo Royalty and entertainers, among others. New this year are Traveler, a world ensemble based in Phoenix, and Chilean Cultural Center of Arizona, which promotes folklore and traditions from the South American country. As part of Valley Bike month, the town and Valley Metro are encouraging families to ride a bike to the festival. Plenty of bicycle parking will be available and riders will receive “Bike Around the World” prizes.
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On four stages of entertainment – World, Community, Village and Earth – they will beat drums, sway hips and frolic and cavort in colorful ethnic dress. In various tents, children will paint their faces, test their knowledge on world heritage, stamp “passports” and sample unusual food. Outside, chalk artists will sprawl on the ground, a Rodeo Queen will teach lassoing lessons with the help of a plastic cow and teenage girls will show off their dazzling Indian saris. The 14th annual Gilbert Global Village Festival will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 14 at the Gilbert Civic Center North Campus at Gilbert and Warner roads. The sights may vary from year to year, but its message stays the same. “It’s to celebrate diversity, come together and promote cross-cultural understanding, just share in each other’s cultures, learning about one another,” said Dina Lopez, the town’s senior recreation leader, Special Events. Last year, an estimated crowd of 5,000 attended. “It’s one of the larger events for Gilbert,” Lopez said. “We’ll anticipate that amount and possibly more.”
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Dancers to showcase Irish stepdancing at spring show BY COLLEEN SPARKS
A thunderous sound of feet tapping intricate steps and springing from a dance floor shook a local studio on a recent weekday night. The students at Bracken School of Irish Dance in Chandler have been gearing up for an energetic display of this distinctive art form at their big show, Step into Spring on April 21 at the Higley Center for the Performing Arts in Gilbert. About 50 dancers, beginning to advanced, will perform Irish dances set to ballads and fast songs in a cultural and athletic display that will be reminiscent of “Riverdance,” the popular international theatrical show with traditional Irish music and dance, said Thomas Bracken, owner of the school. Bracken, who began Irish dancing himself at age 4 in his native Tullamore in County Offaly, Ireland, has owned the Bracken School of Irish Dance for 22 years. Dancers ages 5 to 22 take classes, perform at diverse venues and compete in international, national and local competitions. The Bracken studio is frequently buzzing with activity at its home, which is inside Jeanne’s School of Dance on North Arizona Avenue, just north of Warner Road. “The magic of ‘Riverdance’ is the coordination and the straight lines,” Bracken said. “The technical skills required for that and what we do are the same. This school here is my heart. There’s a tradition. The Bracken school kind of belongs here. It’s kind of that I have become a Chandlerite by my involvement.” He also owns an Irish dance school in Salisbury, Massachusetts, where he frequently travels. But Bracken spends much time teaching and helping local dancers hone their performances and prepare for competitions. Students in the Gilbert show do mainly Irish step dance, a style of movement where dancers perform fast, precise footwork in solos and in groups. Bracken said step dance has “evolved over the years to become a lot more of a fusion.” “You have the basic Irish techniques and rhythms but incorporating that ballet, tap, modern and jazz,” he said. “It’s alive. You need to bring that life into it. The Irish dance essence remains but it does draw from other genres of dance.” The Bracken school dancers perform Ceili dances, where movements and rhythms are set and found in a book. Ceili is a popular type of folk dancing in Ireland. They also do figure dancing, where teachers do their own choreography in any way they choose and different formations are used.
Dancers wear soft shoes that resemble ballet slippers for the Ceili dances. For the choreographed dances they wear either the soft shoes or hard shoes that make sounds similar to noises tap shoes make. The hard shoes have fiberglass in the toes and heels and suede soles and the female dancers go on pointe, on the tips of their toes, as ballet dancers do. While dancing in a recent rehearsal, sometimes the dancers linked their arms or hands with each other and gracefully scurried around the floor. “It’s an amazing cardio workout,” Bracken said. “I have such a passion. It’s my life. I think it helps keep me young. It’s a wonderful environment to work in and be responsible. There’s always a new challenge with new kids. There is so much of the unexpected. These kids are bright; you have to be bright to do this.” The physical exertion required to perform Irish dances was evident during the rehearsal. Several female dancers and one male dancer wearing hard shoes standing in two lines quickly lifted their feet up and down, striking the floor and twisting their feet into different positions. They jumped off the floor and kicked their legs high into the air. Bracken carefully watched them, moving throughout the room and told them, “You cannot be on the wrong foot.” While he said he is strict when he needs to be, Bracken also smiled, joked around and told the dancers they had made progress. He used to be a senior administrator and dean of discipline at a high school in England and was also a high school teacher for 17 years. “I run a tight ship,” Bracken said. “As a former world champion dancer, I know what it is to be a team player. All my kids cheer for one another. There’s so many learning experiences. There’s a special bond with these girls.” Many of Bracken’s dancers study with him for a long time, and when they are experienced enough become teachers themselves at his school. Verlee Richey, 17, of Chandler, a junior at Chandler Preparatory Academy, has been dancing at the Bracken school since she was 11. She took Irish dance classes at a community center before that. “My favorite thing about Irish dancing is all the different rhythms you get to try out and do everything in unison with your friends,” Richey said. “My best friends are here.” Molly Ruley, 13, of Mesa, an eighthgrader at Arete Preparatory Academy in Gilbert, who also takes dance classes at Bracken, said “everyone here is super friendly.”
“I like all of the culture,” Ruley said. “I was the 2018 Irish Lass,” she added, referring to the title she earned as part of the Arizona Colleen and Rose of Tralee Program. The Arizona Irish Lass program chooses girls of Irish descent ages 13-17 for the honor. Linda Ruley, Molly’s mother, said her family likes the “friendly teachers” at Bracken. “They work hard to prepare the dancers for competitions and performances,” Linda said. “The teachers help new parents with what to expect with their child’s first feis (competition). The experienced parents always help out new parents with tips and (GSN photo by Kimberly Carrillo) helpful advice to the Bracken School of Irish Dance students rehearse for “Step into Spring.” new families as well. (Front row, from left) Sofia Allen, Lyra Moralez, Clare Flannagan (with It truly is a blonde hair), Karis White and Emily Saurey. (Second row, from left) community experiAinsley Wills, Sophie Looney and Ethan Saurey. ence. The best part is being able to watch ing with each other and participating in your child get their first first place win, the team aspect of dancing. All of the and their second first, and their third instructors at the school are more than first, and so on and so on. The dancjust instructors, they’re friends.” ers all support each other even though Allen is also the chairwoman for they compete with each other.” social media for Damhsa, the nonprofit One of the youngest dancers reorganization within Bracken School of hearsing with many teenage girls at Irish Dance that helps raise money to Bracken recently, Sofia Allen, 10, of fund dancers’ trips to competitions, Gilbert, enjoys the challenges of Irish costumes and other needs. dancing. She has been dancing at the Organizers believe anyone in the studio for five years and competed at audience, even if they are not familiar the Open Championship, the highest with the art form, will enjoy the show. level of competitive Irish dancing. “I think they can expect first-class “I like dancing with the older girls Irish dancing like we’ve been doing here and I like doing harder stuff that it takes for 22 years,” Bracken said. “We have a a while to get good at,” Sofia said. fabulous band. You’ll get the full, ‘RiverSofia’s sister, Emilia, 7, has been dancdance’ type show.” ing for two years at the school. Emilia Step into Spring will take place from and Sofia’s mother, Tina Allen, said their 3-5 p.m. on Saturday, April 21 at Higley family loves the school. Allen said Emilia Center for the Performing Arts, 4132 E. was “incredibly shy” when she began Pecos Road, Gilbert. dance classes and “dancing has helped to Ciara Archer, 2016 Arizona Colleen & build her confidence and has allowed her Rose, and chair/center director of the to feel empowered to get out on stage.” Arizona Colleen and Rose of Tralee pro“Both my girls enjoy dancing and gram, will sing. The Irish band Stilicho learning about their ancestral tie to will also play. the Irish culture; dancing has provided that connection,” Allen added. “They also really enjoy the friendships they’ve Details: visit higleycenter.org. made through dance and enjoy travel-
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Opinion
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Industrial Development Authority invests in the community BY DENNY BARNEY
If you have a FitBit or any other type of wearable device, you know the appeal of the growing medical-electronic technology industry. It is a field with the potential to address – and perhaps solve – some of our most pressing health challenges. But only if we teach people to start companies, design products and do the highly technical work involved in getting those products to market. Arizona State University had an idea to address this challenge. The university wanted to collaborate with industry leaders, healthcare companies and community colleges to create a comprehensive program specifically tailored to train the next generation of MedTech entrepreneurs and workers. ASU leaders told me about the idea in its early stages and I liked it. I know my colleagues on the Board did, too. But how could we help? ASU needed financial support to get the project going and that’s not something the county can or would do with taxpayer money from the general fund. It’s a good thing we have the Maricopa County Industrial Development Authority. You might not know about the entity. The name alone prompts more questions than it answers. Is it part of the govern-
ment or separate from it? Just what kind of industry is it developing? And what authority do they have to do it? First things first: the Industrial Development Authority is a nonprofit corporation established by the state constitution. It promotes economic development through low-cost financing and community investments, and while its budget is separate from the Denny Barney county’s, its work is overseen and its governing board is appointed by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. Two of my appointees from District 1, Jim Rounds and Jeremey Stawiecki, currently serve on its board. They and their colleagues decide what projects to take on, but they do so knowing those projects need to align with the strategic goals of the county. What are those goals? Well, for starters, we want to help create jobs that improve quality of life. And we want an economy that works for everyone. Not just now, but for generations to come.
That’s why the corporation provided a $2 million grant to ASU to jumpstart the MedTech workforce program. That’s why it was the primary source of funding for the recentlylaunched PipelineAZ, a software platform that connects job seekers and employers in new ways. That’s why it is providing grants this year to a diverse (Special to GSN) set of community organizations that serve, among others, veterans and disabled folks, the homeless and justiceinvolved, and the so-called “opportunity youth” who are neither in school nor employed. Again, you’re not paying for these investments with your county tax dollars. Instead, the corporation makes money through fees it charges for facilitating lowinterest or tax-exempt loans. Those fees go back into the community in the form of grants – like the one to ASU’s MedTech program – which further the corporation’s mission to boost economic development. These are not just investments in our present, but in our future.
Let’s face it, the Maricopa County that our kids and grandkids inherit will be a lot different than the one we remember as kids. Just think about what has happened over the past few generations in the East Valley. Around the time my parents were born in the mid-1940s, Gilbert was a town of less than 1,000 people. Now there are more than 250,000 residents, with the population doubling in the decade between the 2000 and 2010 censuses. Who would have imagined a few generations ago the information available at our fingertips in 2018? Who would have pictured a watch that could track your heart rate or sleep? Or pull up a workout that could improve your health? The Maricopa County Industrial Development Authority takes a long-term approach to growing and diversifying our regional economy. As leaders, our responsibility is not to predict the future (no one can do that); our role is to invest in possibility, to track outcomes, and to make sure that we are using all the tools we have at our disposal to improve quality of life for all. Denny Barney is a Gilbert resident and a member of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors.
www.GilbertSunNews.com
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Gilbert Poolman LLC
REPAIRS REMODELING
Weekly Pool Service
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED GilbertPoolman.com ROC License # 289980
480.619.7472
Classifieds
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Now Hiring Food Demonstrators In The NE Gilbert Costco Part Time. 6 Hour Shifts. 1 to 6 Shifts Per Week. $12.65/Hour. Yr Round Apply at 480-293-0078 www.cdsjobs.com Search 481
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Pediatric Home Health Nurse (RN) OR Lic'd Practical Nurse (LPN)
ELECTRICAL
Queen Creek (85142 & 85212) family is requesting 2p-8p M-F. This candidate would be providing one-on-one patient care in the comfort of the clients home.
ANYTHING ELECTRICAL, AIR CONDITIONING, PLUMBING Free Service Call with Repair Same Day Service Guaranteed 24/7 - 2 Hours or Less Troubleshooting Experts Minuteman Home Service SRP APS Certified Licensed/Bonded/Insured ROC 242804 BBB A+ Valleywide Code T11 602-279- 0942
Team Select Home Care also has many Part-Time Opportunities Avail Throughout East Valley. Pediatric Exp Preferred but not req'd.
Call (602) 795-6400 OR apply online at WWW.TEAMSELECTHH.COM/CAREERS
GLASS SERVICES
***Ask us about our bonus incentive program***
CLEANING SERVICES
Meetings/Events?
HOME REMODELING
IS YOUR "HONEY DO" LIST GETTING TOO BIG FOR YOU? Did you buy something that needs to be put together? Give John the Handyman a call! He can help you get things done. Anything that takes your time I can do & have the tools to do it! John the Handyman: 760-668-0681
EMPLOYMENT
THE MASTER'S TOUCH CLEANING SERVICE www.tmtclean.com One time or recurring service M-F since 2001. Licensed, insured and e-verified cleaners in teams of two. Call 480-324-1640 answered 24/7 See our Ad in the Biz Box Section
HANDYMAN
GLASS, MIRRORS, SHOWER DOORS Family Owned with 50 years' EXPERIENCE. Shower and tub enclosures Framed, Frameless or Custom Doors We also install insulated glass, mirrored closet doors, window glass, mirrors, patio doors, glass table protectors. If it’s glass, we can help you. QUALITY SERVICE at Competitive Prices. FREE Estimates WESLEY'S GLASS & MIRROR Call 480-306-5113 wesleysglass.com SERVICING THE ENTIRE VALLEY
Get Free notices in the Classifieds! Submit to tracey@timespublications.com
HOLTZMAN HOME IMPROVEMENT People do business with people they trust Home Remodeling & Additions *Kitchens or Baths *Tile/Flooring *Garages We Do It All! 24 Hour Emergency Services Licensed/Bonded/Insured ROC#242008 SPRING SPECIAL 15% off labor on any job over $1,000 Must mention this ad for discount Can't combine with any other offer Call for a Free Estimate! 602-628-8735 602-323-6574 Holtzmanhomeimprovement.com
HOME REMODELING REPAIRS & CUSTOM INTERIOR PAINTING Move a wall; turn a door into a window. From small jobs and repairs to room additions, I do it all. Precision interior painting, carpentry, drywall, tile, windows, doors, skylights, electrical, fans, plumbing and more. All trades done by hands-on General Contractor. Friendly, artistic, intelligent, honest and affordable. 40 years' experience. Call Ron Wolfgang Office 480-820-8515 Cell 602-628-9653 Wolfgang Construction Inc. Licensed & Bonded ROC 124934
LANDSCAPE ALL PRO TREE SERVICE, LLC Tree Trimming, Tree Removals, Stump Grinding, Monthly Landscape Maintenance, Full Yard Clean Ups, Palm Trees, Deep Root Fertilization, Irrigation, Etc. Free Estimate, Very Professional, Insured, and Bonded! Visa & MasterCard Accepted Mention this Ad and Receive 15% off Discount! 480-354-5802 or dennis@allprotrees.com See Our Ad in the Biz Box Section
Imperial Tile Imports “Big Enough To Serve You, Small Enough To Care For You”
FREE
SPECIAL OFFER Stainless Steel
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Deadline: 16th of the month for the next publication
Contact: Tracey Wilson 480-898-5611 tracey@timespublications.com www.gilbertsunnews.com
CLASSIFIEDS CLEANING SERVICES
April 2018
PAINTING QUALITY HOUSE PAINTING Affordable Prices Interior/Exterior Special Coatings Free Estimates 480-707-1681
REAL ESTATE
WE BUY HOUSES ALL CASH
ANY CONDITION
480-599-7617 ROOFING Phillips Roofing
Family Owned & Operated Residential & Commercial Free Estimates Valleywide Service Where Quality Matters 623-873-1626 ROC223367 Bonded & Insured
ROOFING Tim KLINE Roofing, LLC The Most Detailed Roofer in the State. Roofs Done Right..The FIRST Time. 15-Year Workmanship Warranty on All Complete Roof Systems. FREE Estimate and Written Proposal. 480-357-2463 www.timklineroofing.com R.O.C #156979 K-42 Licensed, Bonded and Insured
WINDOWS/ CLEANING DIRTY WINDOWS? Call Fish Window Cleaning @ 480-962-4688 and you will have the cleanest windows and screens on the block. Below is the list of services we offer: Windows-Interior & Exterior Screens-Sunscreens/Regular Tracks, Ceiling Fans, Light Fixtures Power Washing Your driveways, sidewalks & patios Follow us on InstaGram @FISH_WCEASTVALLEYAZ
Tile, Flat Roof, and Leak Repair Experts
$1000 OFF when you show this ad
on qualifying complete roof replacements
Let us show you the In-Ex Difference! Serving The Valley Since 1996
inexroofing.com 602-938-7575 CALL FOR YOUR FREE ROOF EVALUATION
Undermount Kitchen Sink 2 Equal Bowls with Every Kitchen Over $3,500.00 Photo does not show actual sink.
• Fabrication & Installation • Quality materials in quartz, granite and marble • Zero Complaints from the Arizona Registrar of Contractors
Payment Options Available Credit Cards Accepted
• Friendly service and interaction • Specially trained to give you beautiful results
Licensed - Bonded - Insured
Call us today for a free quote to start your new dream kitchen or bathroom! 602-254-8406 • 1846 E. McDowell Rd., Phoenix • imperialtileaz.com
ROC #: 269218
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April 2018
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Arizona’s Resort-Style Home Builder MASTER PLANNED CELEBRATED COMMUNITIES BY BLANDFORD HOMES
Award-winning Arizona builder for 39 years. Blandford Homes specializes in building master planned environments with a variety of amenities and charm. Many offer resort-style amenities such as pools, spa, fitness, tennis, event lawns, and lifestyle activities, you’ll find the perfect community to fit your lifestyle. A Mountain Bridge 6 BRAND NEW REVOLUTIONARY MODEL HOMES!
Acclaimed Resort-Style Master Planned Community in Northeast Mesa Vintage Collection • From the high $300’s • 480-988-2400 Craftsman Collection • From the mid $400’s • 480-641-1800 Artisan Collection • From the low $500’s • 480-641-1800 Master Collection • From the low $700’s • 480-641-1800 B Mulberry – “New Old-Home Neighborhood” GRAND OPENING NEW PHASES! Resort-Style in Southeast Mesa Arbor Collection • From the $250’s • 480-895-6300 Americana Collection • From the $280’s • 480-895-2800 Centennial Collection • From the $330’s • 480-733-9000 Heritage Collection • From the $360’s • 480-733-9000 C The Estates at Thirty-Second Street NEW HOMESITES JUST RELEASED Luxury single-level estate homes with 4- to 6-car garages and optional RV garages and carriage houses • From the low $800’s • 480-750-3000
D Estates on McDowell 35,000 SQUARE FOOT HOMESITES — NOW SELLING! Luxury single-level estate homes with 4- to 6-car garages and optional RV garages and carriage houses • From the low $800’s • 480-750-3000
E The Estates at Las Sendas CLOSE-OUT LAST 4 HOMES
Northeast Mesa Resort-Style Master Planned Community
Luxury single-level estate homes on 30,000 sq. ft. lots with 4- to 6- car garages and optional RV garages and carriage houses • From the high $800’s • 480-641-1800
F Sienna Hills Scottsdale – 124th St & Shea GRAND OPENING!
Luxury single-level estate homes • From the mid $900’s • 480-661-3811
BlandfordHomes.com Not all photos shown are representative of all communities. Terms and conditions subject to change without notice.