December 2015
Relentlessly local coverage of Gilbert and our neighboring communities
Gilbert Days Parade
Genevieve Kelley, Lexi Guy, Gianna Jensen, Desarae Guy and Jennifer Jensen are dressed in their spirit uniforms.
Montgomery fighting war against crime
New buses, pay hikes planned with approved override
BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
BY KEN ABRAMCZYK
Seventeen-year Gilbert resident Bill Montgomery has promised to fight crime, honor victims’ rights and protect and strengthen the community as Maricopa County attorney. As part of his position, he’s seen some of the county’s most notorious cases, including the Jodi Arias trials. That may be noteworthy, but to Montgomery, his primary accomplishment has been what he achieved during the Gulf War. “It was a great time of uncertainty,” Montgomery said during a recent interview. “When I graduated from West Point in 1989, the Berlin Wall was coming down. The U.S. was expected to be able to capitalize on a peace dividend at the see MONTGOMERY page
14 Bill Montgomery. Submitted photo
Gilbert Public Schools officials will plan facility improvements, bus purchases and an increase of teachers’ and staff pay now that voters approved a 10 percent maintenance and operations budget override and $98 million in bonds. Just less than 59 percent of the voters supported the bonds, 19,061 to 13,456, and 54.6 percent backed the override, 17,205 to 14,291. An override approved in 2007 expired at the end of the 2014-15 school year, so GPS officials asked voters for a new override and the bonds. The owner of a home valued at $170,000—the average assessed value in the district—now will see OVERRIDE page
2 Community 16 Neighbors 27 Business 30 Neighborhood Map
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2 December 2015
Community
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Your Gilbert Home Sold for 100% of Your Asking Price, GUARANTEED or Bret Johnson Will Pay You The Difference!* No Gimmicks! For more information on my exclusive Guaranteed Sales Program, order a Free report by visiting: www.480FastSale.com or FREE Recorded Message: 1-800-303-3049, ID# 8001 or call me direct at: 480-775-7700
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14 Critical Home Inspection Traps to be Aware of Weeks Before Listing Your Home for Sale GILBERT, AZ - According to industry experts, there are over 33 physical problems that will come under scrutiny during a home inspection when your home is for sale. A new report has been prepared which identifies the eleven most common of these problems, and what you should know about them before you list your home for sale. Whether you own an old home or a brand new one, there are a number of things that can fall short of requirements during a home inspection. If not identified and dealt with, any of these 14 items could cost you dearly in terms of repair. That’s why it’s critical that you read this report before you list your home. If you wait until the building inspector flags these issues for you, you will almost certainly experience costly delays in the close of your home sale or, worse, turn prospective buyers away
altogether. In most cases, you can make a reasonable pre-inspection yourself if you know what you’re looking for, and knowing what you’re looking for can help you prevent little problems from growing into costly and unmanageable ones. To help homesellers deal with this issue before their homes are listed, a free report entitled “14 Things You Need to Know to Pass Your Home Inspection” has been compiled which explains the issues involved. To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report call toll-free 1-800-303-3049 and enter 8003. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free special report NOW to learn how to ensure a home inspection doesn’t cost you the sale of your home.
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December 2015
What is Your Gilbert Home Worth?
Get an Up to Date Home Value Online! Visit: www.AreaHomeReport.com Free recorded message 1-800-303-3049 ID #8000
7 Things You Must Know Before Putting Your Home Up for Sale
Gilbert, AZ - A new report has just been released which reveals 7 costly mistakes that most homeowners make when selling their home, and a 9 Step System that can help you sell your home fast and for the most amount of money. This industry report shows clearly how the traditional ways of selling homes have become increasingly less and less effective in today’s market. The fact of the matter is that fully three quarters of home sellers don’t get what they want for their homes and become disillusioned and - worse - financially disadvantaged when they put their homes on the market. As this report uncovers, most home sellers make 7 deadly mistakes that cost them literally thousands of dollars. The good news is that each and every one of these mistakes entirely preventable. In answer to this issue, industry insiders have prepared a free special report entitled “The 9 Step System to Get Your Home Sold Fast and For Top Dollar”. To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report, call toll-free, 1-800-303-3049 and enter 8005. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free special report NOW to find out how you can get the most money for your home.
10 Questions to Ask Before You Hire a REALTOR
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4 December 2015
Community
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Riparian Preserve: Bringing nature to Gilbert BY MEGAN MARPLES
The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch has been attracting children and adults alike for more than 15 years to teach them about the wildlife around us. The 110-acre park includes eight ponds and more than 4.5 miles of trails to explore. Program Coordinator for the Riparian Preserve Jennifer Lauria traces the park’s origins to Gilbert’s commitment to be environmentally friendly. “In 1986, the Town of Gilbert made a commitment to reuse 100 percent of its effluent water,” Lauria said. “The Town’s desire to create innovative and unique ways to combine water resource development with wildlife habitat, educational and recreational opportunities led to the development of the Riparian Preserve in 1999.” There are a variety of public programs to participate in at the preserve as winter approaches. The north end of the park houses the Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory. From September through June, the observatory is open to visitors who wish to enjoy the night sky. The East Valley Astronomy Club manages all operations and programs, such as the Skywatch program, held at the observatory. It is held the second Friday of each month and offers
a presentation on modern astronomy. For those interested in learning more about the Riparian Preserve, Gilbert Naturalist Jennie Rambo leads tours from October through April. Pedestrians are able to observe wildlife as well as spot some of the more than 298 species of birds catalogued there. Visitors also will learn
ducks and water storage. “Viewing blinds have been established at various locations near the edge of several ponds to further enhance the visitor’s experience,” Lauria said. “A floating boardwalk crossing the northern end of the lake allows visitors a close-up view of the fish and ducks on the water.”
about water conservation and riparian environments. Tours are held almost every second and fourth Saturday of the month from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. The cost is $10. Visitors who wish to enjoy the preserve at their own pace can do so with the Outdoor Learning Project. There are QR codes at various stops to learn more about the Riparian Preserve, including the ponds,
The Riparian Preserve offers a range of activities for those wanting to delve even deeper. With reservations two months in advance, visitors can camp overnight at the preserve. For Boys and Girls scouts, badge programs and scout tours are available from October through April. They are held from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursdays and Saturdays. Other activities include independent
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research opportunities and volunteering at the Riparian area. Fishing is a popular activity at Water Ranch Lake. It is run as a Community Fishing Lake by Gilbert with the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Various fish occupy the lake such as rainbow trout, largemouth bass, sunfish, and farm-raised channel catfish. New fishing policies are being implemented in January 2015. “Water Ranch Lake will be converted to catch-and-release for bass and sunfish only,” Lauria said. “Anglers will still be able to catch-and-keep trout, catfish and all other species.” From 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays Dec. 11 and Dec. 18, and Saturdays Dec. 12 and Dec. 19, the Riparian Preserve is hosting Riparian After Dark. It features holiday light displays, carolers and choir groups. The event is free to the public but donations are encouraged. As the weather cools off, the Gilbert Riparian Preserve is the ideal place to enjoy the outdoors. With the plethora of activities to participate in, people of every age will be able to enjoy this environmentally friendly park.
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Community
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December 2015
The “New Old-Home Neighborhood”
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THE MULBERRY STORY Blandford Homes is creating hometown charm, for real! Mulberry will feel like an enchanted land—magically reminiscent of the early 1900s when homes sprung up to create quaint neighborhoods. Blandford Homes presents an inspired line of home designs with significant character differences. Imagine corner lots featuring homes with wraparound porches! This “New Old-Home Neighborhood” will be one-of-a-kind in Arizona. Mulberry will feature two beautiful main entrances with lush date palm and tree-lined boulevards leading to centrally located Mulberry Park, no more than a 5-minute walk from anyplace in the neighborhood. You will enjoy the park’s impressive Georgian Colonial-style building complete with white trim and green shutters, along with the pool, sport courts, fitness, and playgrounds. Just imagine the events, concerts, and celebrations you’ll attend within the huge pavillions and green playing fields of Mulberry Park. In fact, these community amenities will be in place before the first homeowner moves in. Mulberry is part of the top-rated Gilbert School District, and within a mile you’ll find major shopping, dining, a carwash and an even an IMAX theater. A shopping area, “Mulberry Marketplace,” will include a Fry’s Marketplace designed in a Craftsman Bungalow style to tie into Mulberry’s architectural theme. Mulberry residents won’t even have to leave the community to shop!
Guadalupe Road, just 1.8 miles east of the 202 Fwy, exit 32 Over 3,000 families have already joined our VIP Interest List. Join today at:
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No offer to sell or buy may be made prior to issuance of an Arizona subdivision public report. Offer, availability, pricing, terms and conditions subject to change without prior notice. Renderings are artist’s conceptions and remain subject to modification without notice. Blandford Homes has no control over Mulberry Marketplace as to actual timing of construction or even if is it ever constructed. Copyright 2015 Blandford Homes, LLC.
6 December 2015
Community
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Town to begin new trash pickup schedule in 2016 Gilbert is rolling out new residential trash, recycling and bulk trash pickup schedules for all residents on Monday, Jan. 4. Trash and recycling containers will be picked up on the same day and bulk trash pickup will continue to be offered one week per zone each month. Residents are encouraged to view
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Community
Child Crisis Arizona assists families with shelters, programs
IN THE NEWS Memorial held for 13-year-old Gilbert teen A memorial honoring 13-year-old Alexis Reanne Schultz was held Nov. 19 at Tumbleweed Park in Chandler. Schultz died at Phoenix Children’s Hospital on Nov. 12 after contracting a mysterious illness that paralyzed her from the waist down and slowly shut down her body. Authorities are still puzzled by Schultz’s sudden passing and will conduct an autopsy to determine the cause of her death. Friends and family came together in celebration for what would have been the Gilbert teen’s 14th birthday and released lanterns in an act of solidarity and respect. Social media users also shared the hashtag #LiveLikeLexi to show their support.
BY JENNIFER HAALAND
A towering mosaic-like tribute greets guests and clients who enter the Mesa offices of Child Crisis Arizona. Within each colorful glassy shard glows the names of contributors who believe and support the organization’s central goal— removing the crisis from all families and children in Arizona, ideally before they become broken. Like the mosaic artist’s vision of singular, shining potential rather than individual components, Executive Director Torrie Taj describes endless, vibrant possibility in the agency’s nine programs resulting from the recent merger of Arizona Nursery and Child Crisis Center. “The reality is, we need to be here to respond to the crises faced by our most vulnerable, our children and families in need,” said the Gilbert resident whose holistic approach begins with praise of both boards of directors. Taj is thankful for the unified front, and the boards’ insight and courage to combine as one, their recognition of the potential to replicate programs, to innovate and improve the lines of service. Nine programs are vital The organization works to fulfill the three promises highlighted on the Child Crisis Arizona logo: to prevent, support and advocate through its nine programs and its 250-member staff on two campuses located in Central Phoenix and in Mesa. Emergency shelters house, protect and feed more than 500 children, ages birth to 11 years. Along with the waiting closets full of soft stripes and bold patterns in the Child Crisis Arizona shelter bedrooms, children with emergency needs are offered warm welcoming sleeves of safety at a moment’s notice—for as many days, weeks or months as are necessary. Family resources and education programs assist with campus pre-school, in-home visits, tutoring and onsite adult classes to more than 3,000 participants annually, all at little to no cost. Wayward fathers, new or expectant mothers and little ones without day care find helping hands at the agency. From anger management to nutrition to parenting skills, Child Crisis Arizona is aware that
7
December 2015
Child Crisis Arizona Executive Director Torrie Taj, a Gilbert resident, helps her organization fulfill the three promises highlighted on its logo—to prevent, support and advocate through its nine programs. Submitted photo
disrupting and preventing unhealthy cycles can help reconfigure splintered families into safe, whole units. Child Crisis Arizona also finds, trains and continues education for foster and adoptive families, and assistance for the underdeveloped or drug-addicted baby. Anticipating and providing the specialized medical or emotional tools required by these families helps ensure and maintain the most delicate but essential of family bonds. Taj brands Child Crisis Arizona as a unified whole with a $15 million operating budget to communicate great promise, and providing better services than a single program can. Executive director has vision Taj’s job is full of complexities. She works toward combining unlikely worlds while her staff replicates some services and smooths other duplicated services into one consistent product. A selfdescribed “cheerleader for change,” she’s creating a new environment that (melds) crisis with best practices, bonds poverty to provider of choice and infuses welfare with the culture of philanthropy. “Traditional CEOs carry out the work,” Taj said. “As a new nonprofit CEO, I am not here to carry out the work. I am here to organize structure and infrastructure so that the professional staff—the social workers, the counselors, the nurses and all those trained, big hearts—can best carry out the work. I am here to lead, to have the vision, to make sure the resources are in place, to hire the best talent.” She elaborated by way of the analogy
she used to first address the joint boards. “Two agencies dated, married and now we’re a blended family,” she said. “Now that we have a common dinner table, we need to stop eating in different shifts. We all need to sit down together, blend our work into a new model with best practices.” Taj said nonprofit “is just a tax status; it’s not a way to operate.” “As we think long term, we need to set our standards higher; raise the bar and our own expectations a bit,” Taj said. “Our kids are worthy of new underwear and new socks. The community will always think of us as a discount, bargain nonprofit if that’s the way we act. Not the cheapest, but the best. I will question and research. It may take more resources, but I look at that as my challenge and my goal.” Taj, who is on the ASU faculty and teaches nonprofit leadership management, addresses fundraising like it’s a present under the Christmas tree. “I am absolutely passionate about fundraising,” Taj said. “I love it. I will get to build a culture of philanthropy here. It’s about providing opportunities, about education, about resources from consultants or developers for training. My staff is passionate. They’re dedicated. They’re smart. As we’re aligning visions, we’ll become the provider of choice and the employer of choice. “I personally don’t need to rock the children and do the direct service in order to be the CEO of Child Crisis Arizona. I have the passion and the knowledge, but for me it’s about leadership with heart. From a solid business perspective, I keep the ultimate mission always in the background.”
Police shoot man for evading arrest, threating police A 24-year-old man swore not to return to jail before he was shot to death by Gilbert police in August. Richard Tyler Young was killed after threatening a Gilbert police officer during a routine traffic stop on Aug. 10. According police reports, Young tried to evade criminal charges and had been arrested two months prior for aggravated assault, attempted theft, hit-and-run and disorderly conduct. Officer Matt Pittman claimed to have stopped Young for speeding near Patterson Elementary School, located in front of Wonderful Mercy Church. The shooting took place in the church parking lot after Young threatened to hit Pittman with his Jeep. Madison Arriaga, Young’s girlfriend, told authorities that Young didn’t want to go to jail and had planned to sell plasma that day. Pittman, who is on injury leave, shot Young six to eight times in the head, neck and torso. Investigators have yet to determine if Young was intoxicated during the altercation. Kennel owners may face criminal charges for animal abuse A new review of evidence in a June 2014 case involving the owners of Green Acre Dog Boarding may validate 29 counts of animal cruelty and fraud. Maleisa Hughes and Jesse Todd Hughes pleaded not guilty when tried for the death of 21 dogs at its Gilbert kennel. According to authorities, the dogs died of heat exhaustion but were not malnourished and showed no signs of maltreatment. see NEWS page
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8 December 2015
Community
Donate blood, receive a free cheese pizza
Donate at any United Blood Services blood drive or donor center in December and be rewarded with a voucher for a free 14-inch cheese pizza, courtesy of the Streets of New York. The Streets of New York has partnered with United Blood Services to make sure patients across Arizona have the lifesaving blood transfusions they need this holiday season. Because blood has a shelf life of 42 days, donors will help save patients throughout the most challenging time of the year to maintain the state’s blood supply. To make an appointment to “Find the Hero in You,” call 1-877-UBSHERO (1-877-827-4376) or visit www. BloodHero.com and enter your city or
ZIP Code (locations detailed below). Holiday blood donors help kids like Mia, an Arizona 13-year-old who depends on blood donors to provide lifesaving transfusions every month—a need that is expected to continue the rest of her life. She was born with Diamond Blackfan Anemia, a rare disorder that prevents her body from producing red blood cells. “Mia is alive today because of people who donate blood,” said her mom, Kristi. “Our family is beyond thankful to everyone who takes the time to simply donate blood.” Mia has already relied on the generosity of nearly 150 blood donors. “Arizona has been home to our headquarters and restaurants for see BLOOD page
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Community
December 2015
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10 December 2015
Community
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OVERRIDE from page 1
pay from $364 to $399 in property taxes in fiscal year 2017. Superintendent Dr. Christina Kishimoto thanked voters for their support and the commitment made to “a long-term vision for continued excellence and success for all students.” After the election, Kishimoto discussed with the GPS board the need for a multiyear budget and a priority plan for the approved money. Kishimoto expects to discuss a five-year plan for teacher and staff salaries, funded by a portion of the maintenance and operations money, and a list of facility priorities for $40 million of the bond money. Along with that $40 million in facility maintenance, the bonds will fund $35 million in technology, $15 million in student transportation and $8 million in school construction and land purchase. Kishimoto believes the salary hikes will stem the tide of teachers and staffers who leave the district for better pay. “Morale was impacted [with the election results],” Kishimoto said. “We’ve lost one-third of our staff capacity in the last three years.”
She pointed out that staff take positions with Chandler and Higley unified school districts to better support their families. “[The override] goes a long way, and you can see that in the smiles of teachers in the classrooms.” Buses will be a top priority, but they will not be in place until September or October 2016 as bids need to be sent out and the next budget year needs to begin. Board President Lily Tram said the district operated at reduced funding for the past three years and that she and the board were relieved and pleased with the election results. “This year we operated without the override [which expired] on a
barebones budget,” Tram said. “It is the best feeling in the world for the board.” Tram said the money helps the district combine the budget and strategic plan. She agreed that the district needed to make teachers salaries competitive. The bus fleet also needs new buses. “On the first day of school this year, we had a bus break down, and we’ve had several since then. We want to be sure to get the kids to school on time and get them there safely,” Tram said. Tram credited parents and district supporters for the election results. “A lot of students and families really have felt the impact of the budget,”
Tram said. Often they paid for supplies and athletic equipment out of their own pocket and wanted to make education a priority for their district, she added. Kishimoto also extended her gratitude to Town and nearby City leaders, including Mayor John Lewis, Mesa Mayor John Giles, council members, the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and business and community leaders. “[Their] collaborative leadership over the decades has served as a testament to what makes Gilbert and East Mesa such a strong and vibrant community,” Kishimoto said. “Our students’ education is our highest priority and we will ensure that all of our graduates are college and career ready and able to compete with students on a national level,” Kishimoto said. Tram also credited Town and business leaders who supported the ballot questions. “It is really something we have needed for the past few years. It feels good that we can move forward.”
Chandler event benefits Gilbert boy with cerebral palsy BY TRACY HOUSE
The community is invited to participate in Comithon: Andrew’s Fun Run, Walk and Roll, to benefit 9-year-old Andrew Burkhart, seen here with his dad, Andrew, a math teacher at Hamilton High and Bogle Junior High schools. Submitted photo.
Andrew Burkhart was a medical mystery. He and his parents, Kellie and Andrew, went to specialist after specialist trying to find out why he was ill. “We didn’t know what it was,” said Kellie, whose family lives in Gilbert. “It” turned out to be cerebral palsy, with which Andrew was diagnosed by a leading homeopathic doctor at age 4. “Since that day, we’ve been on this alternative path that’s changed his world,” Kellie said. The treatment may help the 9-year-old student at Settler’s Point Elementary School, but it comes with a price: The insurance company considers it “alternative,” so it is not covered. The family—including the elder Andrew, who teaches math at Hamilton High and Bogle Junior High schools in Chandler—pays an average of $900 out-of-pocket a month for local treatments and an additional $15,000 to $20,000 each summer for intensive specialized treatments out of state. To help alleviate the financial burden, community members are hosting Comithon: Andrew’s Fun Run, Walk and Roll from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at Hamilton High School’s track. Comithon is a blend of the words
ComicCon and marathon. The family-friendly event will include princesses and superheroes to interact with the kids. There will also be face painting, food trucks and vendors. To make a tax-deductible donation for Andrew’s care via the Cerebral Palsy Hope Foundation, visit https:// prayforandrew.wordpress.com/how-tohelp/. Helpful treatment For the last five summers, Andrew has traveled to southern California for stem cell therapy. “It’s changed his world,” Kellie said. “The first time they fixed his GI (gastrointestinal) system. He was 4 1/2, still in diapers and 60 pounds. We couldn’t potty train him. His GI system was just not working properly. Within a week of therapy he was having normal functioning and was potty-trained within a month.” The second year Andrew was able to gain motion in his left arm. “It’s been a miracle,” she said, tearfully. The hardest part, Kellie said, is even though they are receiving emotional support, the financial burden exists. “The Hamilton community has been extremely supportive year after year,” Kellie said. “They’ve done many things to help Andrew. This is probably been
the biggest event to put on.” Due to Andrew’s extensive treatments, Kellie is home taking care of him. “Andrew’s got doctors, therapy or physical improvement appointments at least four days a week, every week after school. I can’t go back to work and have him continue to progress.” Andrew is involved in gymnastics and wrestling to help with physical improvement. He attends general classes at Aspire Kids Sports Center, where he has received a scholarship for the last five years, Kellie explained. Andrew wrestles at Power MMA, where his father volunteers as an assistant coach. “He keeps Andrew safe,” she said. Kellie said Hamilton teacher and Civic Club sponsor Nikki Vaerewyck has been the one pushing and working so hard to make this event happen. “She has been the rock of all of this at Hamilton,” Kellie said. “She has put in a tremendous amount of time in pushing this through.” Paul A. Flores, with Farmers Insurance, is the community co-host. “He has been our insurance agent for decades and is a great guy who does a lot for the community,” Kellie said.
NEWS from page 7
First Mercedes-Benz dealership in Gilbert to open next summer The first Mercedes-Benz dealership in Gilbert will open next summer near Loop 202 Santan Freeway and Gilbert Road. The $15 million complex is expected to be stocked with luxury sedans, coupes and SUVs and create 150 new jobs within the Rivulon project, a 250-acre mixed-use development planned by Nationwide Realty Investors. The 67,000-squarefoot building will include a showroom, café, boutique and public lounge. Nationwide plans to construct a mix of shops, offices and hotels in Gilbert’s central business district and add approximately 15,000 jobs through the expansion of the Rivulon project.
December 2015
Year End Sale!
Three new restaurants coming to Gilbert Gilbert will be getting at least three new restaurants in the second phase of Heritage Marketplace, located near Gilbert Road and Vaughn Avenue. Sushi Brokers, Clever Koi and Farm+Craft will share the 30,000-square-feet complex with other retailers and offices. Construction will continue for approximately three months before a grand opening is announced. The first phase includes Barrio Queen, Lo-Lo’s Chicken & Waffles, Pomo Pizzeria and Zinburger. Farm+Craft, from the Riot Hospitality Group, is a vegan-friendly restaurant that provides a variety of healthy foods. Clever Koi is an Asianthemed gastropub, and Sushi Brokers is a popular sushi restaurant in Arcadia. Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. also will be adding an outpost at 313 N. Gilbert Rd. Woman arrested for two counts of child abuse Two children were taken into state custody after they tested positive for amphetamine, methamphetamine and marijuana. Holly Brooke, 36, was arrested Nov. 7 for two counts of child abuse after avoiding police for two months. According to authorities, Brooke, 36, also tested positive for methamphetamine and amphetamine but claimed she did not know how her children were exposed to the illegal drugs. On Aug. 27, Brooke called police to report her ex-husband for trespassing. Due to family history and the state of the apartment, both children were taken by the Department of Child Safety. Brooke missed a police interview on Oct. 14 and did not report a recent address change. Authorities found her at Rawhide Western Town and Event Center in Chandler, where she was immediately arrested.
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Cupcake Wars, Greenfield Junior High School
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Let the baking begin... Eighth graders from Greenfield Junior High School put their creativity and culinary skills together for the fourth annual Cupcake Wars. The event was created by GRJRHS teacher Laurie DoranFrederick. “This semester students put in a lot of hard work and time in order for this to come to fruition. I am proud of their accomplishments.” About 137 students competed and created elaborate displays. First place was given to the carnival-themed display, with second place awarded to the movie theater theme, and there was a tie for third between “Candyland” and “Hollywood.” GSN photos by Tim Sealy
The Cupcake Wars of the Greenfield Junior High FACS class was a carnival of color and taste.
FACS 8th grade students and their teacher put on another successful Cupcake Wars competition.
Laurie Doran-Frederick teaches the FACS (Family and Consumer Science) class at Greenfield Junior High and puts on the Cupcake Wars competition to promote the life skills that go into undertaking a team project. Brandon Chastain represents his team with the Candy Land themed cakes.
The Arizona theme is proudly displayed by Matt Schern.
Molly Bellais takes us to the beach with Red Velvet cupcakes and cream cheese frosting.
The only cupcake in the competition to use green velvet cakes, this pool table theme is brought to us by Anna Lant.
Natalie Osborn’s team dropped their vanilla cupcakes into sugar cones for their ice cream parlor theme.
Kali Clementi takes us to the carnival with her display.
Camdyn Williams shows off her team’s Ice Cream Parlor theme, despite her not being a cupcake fan.
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December 2015
Gilbert Dawgs heading to national championships The Junior Pee Wee (JPW) Gilbert Dawgs football team, a group of 10- to 11-year-old boys from the Gilbert area, have earned a spot in the American Youth Football (AYF) National Championships in Florida Dec. 4 through Dec. 11. The JPW Dawgs finished the regular football season with a 7-0 record. As the No. 1 seed in the AYF Conference Playoffs, the Dawgs won two very tough playoff games, and then advanced to the State Championship Game at Sun Devil Stadium on Nov. 7, when they were again victorious, and crowned the 2015 State Champions. The JPW Gilbert Dawgs is a newly formed team formed in June of this year. This tremendous group of young men have been practicing three days a week
since July and playing every game with dedication, commitment and heart. The JPW Dawgs are asking the community for help in raising money to make their Florida trip a reality. All money raised will go toward the boys’ registration fees, airplane tickets, hotel accommodations, food and transportation. Any donation amount will make a difference in helping to get these local boys to Florida. All donations are tax deductible, as Phoenix American Youth Football is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. A Crowdrise account has been set up for donations at: https://www.crowdrise. com/jpwgilbertdawgsfootb2/fundraiser/ jpwgilbertdawgs2015.
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through every phase of the combat operations. “Out of everything I’ve been able to do—aside from my marriage and birth of my own kids—bringing all those guys home to their families is my single biggest accomplishment.”
MONTGOMERY from page 1
end of the Cold War.” As part of the first unit assigned to the Fort Hood 2nd Armored Division, Montgomery spent six months preparing equipment to be stored. He wasn’t getting field training because troops were withdrawing. Three months later, he was alerted for Desert Shield.
“I went from the possibility of never seeing conflict in my 20-year career and drawing down equipment to being out in the middle of Saudi Arabia being a part of U.S. forces driving Saddam Hussein out of Kuwait. It was more than just surreal.” Montgomery was fortunate to have great soldiers in his tank platoon, which was chosen to lead the company
West Point grad Montgomery was born in Lynwood, California, and moved around for most of his life before settling in Paramount, California, where he graduated high school. His options were slim upon graduation. “West Point was really the only way I was going to get an education,” he said. “My family didn’t have any money. The two options I had been pursuing were a naval ROTC scholarship with a Marine option to UCLA or West Point. “I was the first kid in my high school to be appointed to West Point. It was prestigious, and it was a good thing. I didn’t know what I was getting into. It’s very difficult and very demanding.” One afternoon while sitting in his living quarters at West Point, he questioned whether attending the prestigious school was a good move. “Conveniently enough that afternoon I couldn’t find any of my supervisors about potentially resigning,”
Montgomery recalled. “I was looking out over the parade grounds and watching the cadets go back and forth between classes. Every single one of them had to deal with the same difficulties as I did. I thought if they could make it, I could, too.” That first semester was a trying one. He took 20 units—none of which were electives. “This particular afternoon I fell asleep during a calculus quiz and earned a big, fat zero,” he said. “I was trying to balance all the demands of what was required of being a plebe—studying between class and dinner, delivering mail, delivering laundry and, on top of it, doing homework for 20 units, all to a high level of performance. “It took some serious transition in figuring out how to make all of that out.” Seeking re-election He earned his juris doctor from ASU’s College of Law, graduating Magna Cum Laude and receiving the Order of the Coif. As a prosecutor with the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, he quickly gained a reputation as an aggressive prosecutor, later serving as chief of the auto theft bureau, which recorded a 35 percent drop in auto theft under his
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www.GilbertSunNews.com leadership. Montgomery was elected Maricopa County attorney in a special election in 2010 and re-elected in 2012. The former deputy county attorney and professional prosecutor is seeking reelection in 2016. “I hope to be able to continue to serve for at least another four years,” he said. “I have to see where things are at beyond that period of time. I know better than to have a progression plan in place. I learned early on as a lieutenant in the army that you do the job you’re in well enough and other opportunities will come up. I love my job. There are great people who work in this office. There’s a great leadership team within County government. Every day I come to work, there’s a difference in the lives of fellow residents of Maricopa County and that’s incredibly satisfying.” His goal is to make sure his department does justice in each and every case, protecting the due process rights of defendants and the rights of victims of crime. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a home burglary or if it was an aggravated assault, it was a crime committed against them and each of those incidents has a very different impact,” Montgomery said.
“It’s always the most important case for that person and their life. Being able to achieve a just result and have folks satisfied with their experience in the criminal justice system is rewarding.” His experience has allowed him to appreciate where victims are coming from, and who and what it takes to make his office great. Throughout his Maricopa County career, Montgomery has lived in Gilbert. “We enjoy it so much that the last three moves we’ve moved within Gilbert,” he said. “We rented a house in Cooper Ranch and lived there for a year. Then we bought a house in Gilbert Ranch and lived there for seven years, and moved to Chaparral Estates West and sold that and bought a house in Weston Ranch. We looked around at surrounding communities and liked Gilbert and wanted to stay in the community.” The people are friendly and there are great restaurants within a stone’s throw, he said. “We don’t have to leave Gilbert to go to a good restaurant, go to a movie or find other things to do to recreate,” he said. “Everywhere you go—it sounds cliché—people are friendly. It’s a familyoriented town and a perfect place to raise my kids.”
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BLOOD from page 8
38 years, so we feel that it’s our responsibility to help those who are in need,” said Lorrie Glaeser, owner of Streets of New York. “Part of our commitment to quality is giving back to the communities in which our team members and customers live and work. We are pleased to reward donors who save lives with a delicious pizza from Streets of New York to enjoy with their friends and family during the holidays.” Upcoming blood drives include • 7:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1, at Mesquite High School, 500 S. McQueen, Mini Gym • 7 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, LDS Greenfield Stake, 2740 S. Lindsay, Cultural Hall • 7 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, Gilbert Presbyterian Church, 235 E. Guadalupe Rd., Education Building • 1 0 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 7, St. Xavier University, 92 W. Vaughn, General Assembly Room • 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13,
Redemption Church, 1820 W . Elliot Rd, Bloodmobile • 1 0 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 27, SanTan Village, 2218 E Williams Field Rd., Bloodmobile • 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 29, Banner Gateway Campus Blood Drive, 1900 N. Higley Rd., Grand Canyon 1-2 • 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 29, Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, 3555 S. Val Vista Rd., Conference Rooms two and three • 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, Gilbert Hospital, 5656 S Power Rd, Bloodmobile • 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, Town of Gilbert, 75 E. Civic Center., Bloodmobile • 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, Realty ONE Group, 3530 S. Val Vista, Bloodmobile • 1 0 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, Ready Auto Transport, 1030 N. Colorado St., Bloodmobile • 1 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, Town of Gilbert, 50 E. Civic Center Dr., Bloodmobile.
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December 2015
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Festive and tasty meals help make the holidays merrier BY ALISON STANTON
After shopping for gifts, wrapping them and decorating the home both indoors and out, many Gilbert residents are ready to avoid the kitchen. Fortunately, chefs in Gilbert and Chandler restaurants are offering holiday meals. Check out what some of the local establishments have to offer this month: Zappone’s Italian Bistro Diners who are looking for holiday meals with an Italian flair can give Zappone’s Italian Bistro a call. They are featuring half trays of lasagna for $55, homemade cheese ravioli for $14 a pound, cranberry walnut bread for $4, Italian bread for $4 and cannoli kits for $20 a dozen. Zappone’s is also offering six sfogliatelle, an Italian pastry, for $24 and whole cheesecakes for $36; flavors include amaretto, limoncello and peppermint chocolate. Orders are for pickup on Thursday, Dec. 24, by 3 p.m., and may be placed online. Zappone’s Italian Bistro is located at 1652 N. Higley Rd., Suite 103, in Gilbert. For more information, call (480) 218-2338 or visit www.zapponesbistro.com. Cuisine and Wine Bistro For Gilbert residents who are looking for a taste of Europe, Cuisine and Wine Bistro will spice up the holidays with dishes featuring duck, scallops, foie gras and lobster. French chef and restaurant owner Fabrice Buschtetz uses the freshest and best of seasonal offerings to update his menu every few weeks. Throughout the month of December, diners can try the Frenchinfluenced holiday dishes either in-house or to go. Cuisine and Wine Bistro will also feature escargots on the menu this month, which is another staple of holiday meals in France. As part of the holiday celebrations, Cuisine and Wine Bistro will be open for New Year’s Eve and will feature live music. Cuisine and Wine Bistro is located at 1422 W. Warner Rd., Suite A100 in Gilbert. For more information, call (480) 497-1422 or visit http://cuisineandwinebistro.com. Chompie’s For Christmas and Hanukkah, Chompie’s will feature traditional, made-from-scratch dishes to satisfy everyone’s appetite. Chompie’s in Chandler will offer take-out family meals, sides and desserts as well as dine-in plates on Christmas and New Year’s Day. For example, Chompie’s is offering a Hanukkah meal for eight for $149 that includes matzo ball soup, choice of sliced beef brisket or roasted chicken, a choice of two sides including latkes, roasted potatoes, homestyle green beans and a broccolicarrot medley and Lovey Borenstein’s holiday dessert of apple and cherry strudel. Diners who want to supplement
their family meals may purchase a variety of foods by the pint, pound or piece. These include raisin challah bread for $6, mashed sweet potatoes for $4.99 a pound, chocolate bobka for $8.99 and matzo ball soup for $7.99 a quart. Chompie’s also is offering a dine-in or take-out Christmas dinner; a take-away meal is available for pre-order, along with sides and desserts. The meals serve 12 to 15 people for $189.95 and include a whole oven roasted turkey, fixings, sides and pie. Diners can also order an extra large whole oven roasted turkey for $89.95—carved for $114.95—fresh baked apple or pumpkin pies for $10.95 each, homemade stuffing for $6.99 a pound and candied yams for $5.99 a pound. Chompie’s will be open on Christmas Eve from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on Christmas Day from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. To order or make reservations, call (480) 398-3008 or visit www.chompies.com. Chompie’s is located at 3481 W. Frye Rd. in the Chandler Village Center.
Chompie’s will feature a variety of dine-in and take-out options for Hanukkah and Christmas. Submitted photo
Crowne Plaza San Marcos Those who wish to eat out on Christmas Day will enjoy a delicious meal at Crowne Plaza San Marcos in Chandler. The meal, which is $49 for adults and $15 for children ages 12 and under plus tax and gratuity, includes a huge assortment of choices including an antipasto display with cured meats, domestic and imported cheeses and dried fruit; smoked salmon with mini bagels, egg, onion, caper and herb dressing; pan-seared herb and smoked salt crusted salmon with roasted tomato cream; Yukon potato gratin with roasted garlic, caramelized onions and aged parmesan; chef-attended stations, including an omelet station with assorted fillings and toppings; a crepe station with fresh berries, crème anglaise, chocolate and whipped cream and a variety of kid-friendly options like chicken strips and mac and cheese. Seatings are between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Fri., Dec. 25. For reservations, call (480) 857-4401. Crowne Plaza San Marcos is located at One San Marcos Place in Chandler.
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December 2015
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The importance of ‘targetoriented practice’ in golf BY KIRK HANAWAY
Working at Topgolf Gilbert I get to see people of all skill levels come through our doors. Golf is a sport learned through practice. Most people receive lessons and expect to see that crazy slice they could not perfect turn into a perfect arch the next time they play. When it doesn’t happen, the beginner golfer may simply give up. Topgolf in Gilbert enables pros and beginners to practice their game on a consistent basis utilizing, what the professionals call, “target-oriented practice.” Let’s say you go to the range to improve your chip shot. In golf, a chip shot is played close to the green—typically only a few yards from the putting surface. In a perfect world, the desired effect is popping the ball into the air then having it hit the ground and roll forward and into the hole. Of course, this doesn’t always happen. Target-oriented practice can help you make those hole-in-one shots a reality. You would want to begin by placing tees in the ground in a circle about 20 feet from the hole. Grab 20 golf balls and practice chipping them inside the large circle you created. If only eight balls made it in your circle then the next time try to land nine or more. Keep practicing this setup until you get all 20 balls in the circle. Once you do this, make the circle smaller so it’s more challenging. The point is that you are constantly improving your skills, and you are able to measure results immediately. Topgolf uses this same idea inside the venue for long drives. Each ball at Topgolf has a special microchip inside of it. When you hit the ball you are aiming for different targets on the green. As soon as the ball lands inside the circle, the monitor
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AHWATUKEE LOCATION: 16611 S 40th Street, Suite 180 Phoenix, AZ 85048 Phone: 480.785.2100 Fax: 480.785.2111
SINGLE LEVEL HOME ON IDEAL VIEW LOT in Circle Cross Ranch
in your bay automatically calculates your score. At Topgolf, the targets are already in place. Measuring your improvement and challenging yourself will make practice more fun and productive. Once an instructor, like myself, teaches you a new skill it is important to practice after your lessons. At Topgolf we offer our own instruction called Topgolf U Lesson. The lessons can be private or in a group setting. We also utilize top-of-the-line Hudl Video technology that allows us to record your swing and then replay it in slow motion so we can break down how to improve it. The fundamentals of improving your golf game are the same whether you are sitting in our climate-controlled bays with your friends or out on the golf course. So if it’s your first time picking up that golf club or if you are a seasoned pro, it’s important to keep up the practice. Kirk Hanaway is lead golf pro instructor at Topgolf Gilbert. Visit Topgolf at 1689 S. SanTan Village Pkwy., or www.topgolf.com/us/gilbert for more information.
3 bedroom/2 bath home—2150 square feet, built in 2004. Master bedroom split floor plan. Formal living/dining, open and spacious kitchen with wraparound counter for extra seating. Eat-in kitchen and walk-in pantry. Nice sized family room w/surround sound system. Wood and tile flooring—no carpet. Bonus Nook area perfect for an office! You will love the backyard w/ extended decking, POOL, and built-in benches around a gas fire pit area. 3-car garage w/sink. Large community park within walking distance! Located on a street that ends in cul de sacs in both directions.
ALL THIS FOR $224,999! Call to take a look at this great home!
Century 21- AZ Foothills 602-576-7953 Name you can’t forget, and service you will remember!
Neighbors
www.GilbertSunNews.com
December 2015
Popular Tempe eatery finds new home in Gilbert
San Tan Hyundai
BY ARMAN SIDHU
THE BLACK TAG MEANS HUGE SAVINGS!
BLACK FRIDAY SAVINGS ALL MONTH LONG! UP TO
7,800
Months after closing its Tempe location, Skip & Jan’s owners Natalie and Todd Poyner are welcoming back patrons to its new location in Gilbert. Previously occupied by First Round Draft, the building underwent several renovations with the Poyners adding personal touches to the 8,500-square-foot room. Upon entering, visitors will find characteristics typical of a modern sports bar with large TVs displaying the day’s prominent sporting events, and food orders commonly associated with sports bar cuisine. In addition, patrons can fine tune their billiards skills at one of the 16 pool tables. Skip & Jan’s gathers many impressive billiards enthusiasts through its affiliation with some of the top pool leagues in Arizona. It also gathers players of all skill levels who join in on the fun and take advantage of some of the best fares for pool table rentals. In addition to pool, Skip & Jan’s offers karaoke, shuffleboard and foosball to enrich the experience of customer’s visits. Natalie Poyner’s journey to becoming a restaurateur started with the ground up, when she first started working at Skip & Jan’s two decades ago. After 20 years, Natalie was given the opportunity to purchase Skip & Jan’s in
2007. She continued the sports’ bar prevalence as a long-standing mom-and-pop shop in the Tempe restaurant community. Skip & Jan’s maintained its following among residents in South Tempe, but found itself in need of a new home. Natalie opted for Gilbert because of Gilbert’s culinary reputation. As for her customers, Natalie noted, “We have our regulars, many of whom live within walking distance.” Although she has owned the eatery for eight years, Natalie still can be found bartending, training her staff and getting to know new customers. When asked what separates Skip & Jan’s from its competitors, Natalie quickly responds with “our friendly and outgoing staff.” When it comes to the food, the menu features a varied offering of burgers and melts, alongside bestselling wings and classic, delectable appetizers like fried zucchini and cheese crisps. For the health-consciousness, a number of salads and wraps are available. As for the owner’s recommendation, the chicken pesto latbread emerges as the favorite. Skip & Jan’s is open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., with several happy hour specials running from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily. During football season, Skip & Jan’s will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. Sundays.
$
IN REBATES AND DISCOUNTS! WE WILL DOUBLE OUR FACTORY CONSUMER PROGRAM MONEY!
ASK ABOUT OUR CASH BACK PROGRAM! NO PAYMENTS TIL 2016!
Merry Christmas! At the San Marcos
Join us for a delicious Christmas Celebration! Cold Items • Hot Items • Desserts • Kids Menu Chef-Attended Stations featuring:
Chef-Prepared Omelet Station with Assorted Fillings & Toppings
(888) 551-3854 All prices are plus tax, title, license and $398.75 doc fee, less factory rebates & Earnhardt discounts. Purchaser added equipment may (or will) increase the price, where applicable. See dealer for full details. Exp 12/31/15.
NEED FINANCING
1.888.846.9744
Dijon Mustard Crusted Pork Loin with Dijon Pork Glaze Maple & Ginger Ale-Glazed Ham with Fresh Herbs Herb-Encrusted Prime Rib with Rosemary Au Jus & Creamed Horseradish
Please Call 480-857-4401 for Reservations Seatings Between 10AM and 3PM, December 25, 2015 $49 per Adult; $15 per Child 12 and under plus 8.1% tax and 20% gratuity
WWW.SANMARCOSRESORT.COM | RESERVATIONS: 480-857-4401 NTC
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One San M arcos Place Chandler, A Z 85225
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Neighbors
December 2015
Gilbert Days
Gilbert Days, an annual series of events ranging from a rodeo to a half-marathon, culminated in a celebratory parade, bringing thousands to line Gilbert Road. More than 100 parade entries entertained the crowd with floats, costumes, dance, music and more. GSN photos by Kimberly Carrillo
www.GilbertSunNews.com
Attention Gilbert Residents
New Y ear
Trash Recycle Bulk The Gilbert Days Parade is presented by Dignity Health.
Gilbert is rolling out new residential trash, recycling and bulk pickup schedules on Monday, January 4, 2016. • Place BOTH trash and recycling containers 4 feet apart at the designated pickup location by 5:00 AM on your new collection day. • Place all acceptable bulk items at the current designated pickup location by Monday at 5:00 AM of your new collection week.
Tatum Lance and her horse are decked out for the event.
Zone A
Miss Arizona waves to the crowd.
Trash/Recycling: Monday Zone D
Bulk Trash: Week of the 1st Monday of the month.
Zone C
Zone B Trash/Recycling: Tuesday Bulk Trash: Week of the 2nd Monday of the month.
Zone B
Zone C Trash/Recycling: Thursday Bulk Trash: Week of the 3rd Monday of the month.
Zone D
Zone A
Aaron Forseth waits for the next float.
Trash/Recycling: Friday
A colorful clown spreads joy to the crowd.
Bulk Trash: Week of the 4th Monday of the month. Learn more at:
gilbertaz.gov/trash #rollout Sarah, MaddieRose and Jonathan Soliz are excited to see the parade.
Gilbert High School’s marching band serenade the streets of downtown Gilbert.
Neighbors
www.GilbertSunNews.com
December 2015
Acura of Tempe
480.344.5800 www.AcuraOfTempe.com
www.AcuraOfTempe.com
101 202
7800 S. Autoplex Loop Tempe, AZ 85284
480.344.5800
SALES
www.AcuraOfTempe.com
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December 2015
Neighbors
Grimaldi’s adds five new pizzas as part of chef’s selections Grimaldi’s Pizzeria is spicing up its menu—just in time for the holidays. It has introduced five new pizzas as part of a special “chef’s selections.” Known for its award-winning, coal-fired, brick-oven pizzas and calzones, Grimaldi’s has added Quattro Formaggi, topped with mozzarella, asiago, parmesan, pecorino, romano and gorgonzola cheese as well as the Brooklyn Bridge, a combination of oven-roasted peppers, creamy ricotta cheese and hand-pinched Italian sausage to the menu. These chefs selections are available year-round. Here is a complete list of new items. • Margherita: A traditional pizza with extra famous sauce and fresh basil. • Brooklyn Bridge: Oven roasted peppers, creamy ricotta cheese and hand-pinched Italian sausage atop our traditional pizza. • Quattro Formaggi: Mozzarella, asiago, parmesan, pecorino, romano and gorgonzola cheese. • The Don: The traditional pizza topped with Italian sausage, meatballs and pepperoni.
• T he Garden: The traditional pizza topped with fresh roma tomatoes, sliced onions, mushrooms and black olives. Grimaldi’s uses a “secret recipe” pizza sauce, handmade mozzarella cheese and dough. It serves traditional pizza—as it began in Naples, Italy—in an upscale yet casual, family-oriented pizzeria. The intense heat of the oven evenly bakes the pies to create Grimaldi’s famous crispy and smoky thin crust that Zagat has repeatedly voted best pizza. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria has eight locations in Arizona, including Gilbert, Peoria, Tucson, three in the Scottsdale area and two in Chandler. In Gilbert, Grimaldi’s is at 2168 E. Williams Field Rd., Suite 502, (480) 814-7722.
www.GilbertSunNews.com
Carrington College supports dog festival A dozen veterinary assisting students and faculty from Carrington College’s Mesa campus volunteered their time providing grooming services to hundreds of dogs—not to mention offering care tips and recommendations to their owners—during the 16th annual Friends for Life Animal Rescue “BARKtoberfest,” which took place in early October at the Gilbert Civic Center. The award-winning community event, which Carrington has supported since 2012, is focused on raising funds to care for homeless dogs and cats in the community. According to Friends for Life, the event raised more than $15,000 to help the homeless dog and cat population in the Southeast Valley and beyond. This project is one of many the local campus participates in each year as part of its Carrington Cares community outreach program. Submitted photo
Those toys aren’t just noisy—they’re dangerous BY DR. JENNIFER HENSLEY, FAMILY AND YOUTH RESOURCE SPECIALIST AT THE ARIZONA COMMISSION FOR THE DEAF AND THE HARD OF HEARING
As holiday season gears up more people are shopping for toys. The next month will be spent walking up and down toy aisles trying to find just the right gift for the little one on your list. When shopping for the perfect gift, you may look at age appropriateness, price and other warning labels. But how often do you consider the noise level of the toys? You won’t often find the decibel reading on a toy’s warning label, but the noise level could be detrimental to a child’s hearing. Listen up—it’s important Did you know that noise is the No. 1 cause of hearing loss? By first grade, less than 1 percent of children have hearing loss but by the time they are teenagers, 20 percent of children will have some level of hearing loss. Some toys with sound or noise components could be the cause for this loss. How can you tell how much is too much when it comes to noise levels? According to the American SpeechLanguage-Hearing Association, 85 decibels
(dB) is the maximum volume a child should be exposed to for no more than eight hours. Decibels are a unit of measurement to gauge volume, and decibel volume is measured in several industries including construction and engineering to ensure hearing safety. Sounds more than 100 dB can damage hearing in less than 15 minutes of exposure. “The distance at which the decibels are measured can be misleading, because chances are, children aren’t using these toys at arm’s length,” said Michele Michaels, hard of hearing specialist at the Arizona Commission for the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing. How do you know which toys are safe and which should be left off your shopping list? Topping the noisy toy list: • Bruin R/C Racer—103 dB near the ear, 74 dB at arm’s length • Disney: Sofia the First, Time to Shine SingAlong Boombox—102 dB near the ear, 76 dB at arm’s length • Leap Frog: My Talking LapPup—100 dB near the ear, 74 dB at arm’s length • Blue Sky: The Peanuts Movie, Happy
Dance Snoopy—96 dB near the ear, 78 dB at arm’s length • Barbie: Rock ‘N’ Royals Rock Star Guitar—94 dB near the ear, 75 dB at arm’s length • Star Wars: The Force Awakens: Chewbacca Electronic Mask—92 dB near the ear, 79 dB at arm’s length • When shopping for your precious little ones, remember these precautionary measures: • Does the toy have volume control? If there is no way to turn down the volume, the child will be exposed to whatever decibel level naturally comes with the toy. • Is there an on/off switch for the volume? An on/off switch is a great capability for the child to still be able to enjoy the toy, without the risk of damage to their hearing. • Does the toy seem loud to you? If the noise level seems loud to you, it will probably be just as loud or louder to the little one playing with it. As toy shopping season rounds the corner, take a few extra precautions to make sure your child is getting a toy they love, but is also safe. Once the toys are
in their hands, you can also monitor their usage when they are playing with the toys as well as watching TV and listening to loud music. Keep solid time and volume limits to ensure the kids aren’t exposed to too much noise. Noise-reducing head phones are also a great gift to accompany any sound bearing device. Enjoy the holidays with your family by making sure their hearing is protected. For more information, please visit www. acdhh.org.
www.GilbertSunNews.com
Neighbors
December 2015
Contractors donate heating and cooling system to veteran Contractors, including George Brazil Air Conditioning & Heating, donated parts and labor to Building Homes for Heroes at a Welcome Home ceremony Gilbert for Purple Heart recipient Army Pfc. Mason Steill. Johnson Controls donated a York heating and cooling system and George Brazil Air Conditioning & Heating provided installation services for the veteran’s new home. “The support of companies like Johnson Controls and its high-quality York heating equipment contractors like George Brazil Air Conditioning & Heating enable our organization to reach more injured veterans in need and help them begin to rebuild their lives,” said Chad Gottlieb, director of construction development, Building Homes for Heroes. Building Homes for Heroes is a national organization that recognizes the sacrifices of men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces by supporting the needs of severely wounded or disabled soldiers and their families. The organization strives to
build or renovate quality homes and gift the homes to severely injured veterans nationwide, mortgage free. “It looks like a hotel in here,” Steill said after seeing his home. “I’m just surprised at what great work they’ve done. It looks beautiful.” George Brazil Air Conditioning & Heating president Jim Probst said it’s an honor to participate. “Collaborating with programs like Building Homes for Heroes gives us an opportunity to give something back to real heroes who have served our country. We’re honored to contribute our services to the home of Army Pfc. Mason Steill and his family.” Building Homes for Heroes Inc. is a national organization committed to supporting brave men and women, with a goal to build homes for families in dire need. For more information on these projects, please call (516) 684-9220 or visit the organization’s website at www. buildinghomesforheroes.org.
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Architectural rendering of the Thirsty Lion. Submitted photo
Thirsty Lion slated to open in SanTan Village Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill, the restaurant concept that opened its first Arizona restaurant at Tempe Marketplace in 2011, is opening its third location at SanTan Village. Slated for a March opening, the restaurant will be located at 2218 E. Williams Field Rd., Suite 235. “We feel that Thirsty Lion is moving into this exciting neighborhood at just the right time,” said Thirsty Lion CEO John Plew. “We’ve experienced enormous success with our first two Arizona locations and we think SanTan Village offers similar opportunities for success.” Since opening in fall of 2011, Thirsty Lion’s Arizona restaurants have quickly become one of the company’s most successful spots, which includes six existing locations across Oregon, Arizona and Colorado. In addition to Gilbert,
openings in Denver and Dallas also have been announced for 2016 and 2017. Thirsty Lion is committed to providing an eclectic variety of cuisines, with an emphasis on local ingredients and bold flavors. A seasonal fresh sheet will focus on the changing season’s offerings, featuring unique ingredients including fresh seafood, quality meats and local vegetables and fruits. At each location, the bar features a large selection of craft beers on tap, many of which are local to the city, offering a beer on hand for every plate and every palate. The gastropub also features unique craft cocktails that utilize combinations of fresh fruit purees, juices and premium liquors, as well as 25 different wines by the glass. For more information, visit www. thirstyliongastropub.com.
Real estate council gives scholarship to Gilbert student Air conditioning install team from local contractor, George Brazil Air Conditioning & Heating, poses with Purple Heart Recipient Army Pfc. Mason Steill, in front of his new home and newly installed York air conditioning system donated by Johnson Controls & US Air Conditioning Distributors. Pictured, from left, are Kasey Smith, HVAC contract coordinator; Laura Wingren, marketing manager; Army Pfc. Mason Steill; and HVAC Service Technicians Rose McMillan, Mike Burton and Marco Guzman. Submitted photo
Gilbert resident Jim Goethals was awarded one of two $2,500 scholarships from the Southwest Chapter of REIAC (Real Estate Investment Advisory Council), an exclusive organization of top real estate executives involved in developing, acquiring and/or financing real estate. Goethals, a U.S. army veteran, is enrolled in ASU’s Masters of Real Estate Department (MRED) program at the W.P. Carey School of Business. Goethals has worked in land use and
regional planning since 1997. Goethals earned a Bachelor of Science degrees in urban planning and development from the University of Southern California. This is the third year REIAC has awarded two MRED students with $2,500 scholarships through an alliance the organization established with the school in 2013. Requirements of the scholarship program include being a full-time student, an Arizona resident and, preferably, having the desire to work locally upon graduation.
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Neighbors
December 2015
T
hanks to the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit Law, A.R.S. 43-1088, you may be able to designate a donation to Chandler/Gilbert Arc and receive a tax credit. [The charitable tax credit is in addition to the education tax credits… you can take advantage of both tax credits in the same year.] Chandler/Gilbert Arc has been serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the East Valley since 1975, and provides community living, employ-ment and day treatment and training opportunities daily. For tax year 2015, contributions up to $400 may earn dollar-for-dollar tax credit on your Arizona Income Tax return. Taxpayers filing as single or unmarried head of household have a maximum credit amount of $200; married taxpayers filling jointly have a $400 maximum credit.
Check to see if your employer will match your donation! http://doublethedonation.com/cgarc
If you are interested in taking advantage of this opportunity, please make your check payable to:
Chandler/Gilbert Arc Charitable Tax Fund 3250 N. San Marcos Place Chandler, AZ 85225-7789
Town seeking Parks and Rec board member
The Gilbert Parks and Recreation Foundation is seeking applications from interested community leaders to serve on its board of directors. The Gilbert Parks and Recreation Foundation is a 501(c)(3), nonprofit organization promoting the social, cultural and leisure needs of town residents. The foundation and its board of directors
www.GilbertSunNews.com
work together to enhance the programs, activities and events offered by the Gilbert Parks and Recreation Department. Applicants should have an interest and a basic knowledge of parks and recreation. The first review of applications will take place on Dec. 10. Applications may be found and submitted online at: www. gilbertparksandrecreationfoundation.org/ board-of-directors.
For your convenience, you can make your donation on our website:
www.cgarc.org
We also accept Mastercard, Discover and American Express. Please contact Barbara or Toni at (480) 892-9422
Arriving Spring 2016.
Accepting vehicle orders January 2016.
Chandler/Gilbert Arc is an IRS Section 501(c) (3) non-profit organization and is a qualifying charitable organization registered with the Arizona Department of Revenue. Contact the Arizona DOR at (602) 255-3381, or visit www. revenue.state.az.us
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Neighbors
December 2015
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Neighbors
December 2015
Animals, Christmas come together for the 12k’s Celebrate Christmas and maybe even pick up a furry friend by visiting Freestone Park from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, for the annual 12k’s of Christmas and Santa’s Pet Village. Runners and walkers are invited to participate in a 1.2k or 6k walk/run, or a 12k run, with Christmas Carolers at every “k.” Strollers and leashed pets welcome. Santa has gifts under the tree for the best Christmas-themed running outfits, best decorated entries, most
Christmas spirit and cutest pets. All 12k and 6k runners receive “Christmas Stockings” (running socks with the event’s logo) and a collectible medal for finishers. Pre-register online at www.12krun.com or sign up the day of the event. This event also serves as one of the East Valley’s largest pet adoption events of the season. Maricopa Country Animal Care & Control and a dozen other animal rescue groups will participate. There is also a Christmas bazaar
ZK Grill the perfect intro to Persian food The pomegranate chicken was a thick stew Serving Persian food for the last year, ZK with chunks of chicken in a pomegranate and Grill strives to offer guests “delicious menu walnut sauce simmered with flavorful spices. items that also satisfy the health-conscious The beef and filet combo included two individual.” skewers of beef. One skewer had balls Neither I nor my husband had eaten of ground beef mixed with onion puree Persian food before, so we did a little and zaytoon seasonings and the second research and found that typical meals are skewer featured marinated chunks of beef combinations of rice with meat (lamb, tenderloin cooked over an open flame. Each chicken and fish) and vegetables such as dinner entree was served with rice or salad, onions, potatoes and tomatoes combined or half and half. The fresh salads included with herbs, nuts and spices, including saffron mixed greens, tomato and cucumber and and cinnamon. came with a choice of dressings. The basmati We decided to give ZK Grill a try. Lucky rice, topped with bright yellow saffron for us, each entrée rice, was cooked had a photo with perfectly and very it so we could tell tasty. exactly what we For dessert, ZK were ordering. Grill offers saffron Brothers Adib ice cream, baklava and Kalim work at and zoolbia/ the restaurant— bamieh ($2.99), with Adib behind the latter of which the counter and we had to sample Kalim as the chef— because it had and they shared such an interesting their interesting name. It is a stories about how traditional Iranian they arrived in the treat similar to a United States. ZK Grill serves Persian food, including doughnut made We basically combinations of rice with lamb, chicken and with yogurt, then fish, appetizers, salads, side orders and desserts. had the restaurant fried and dipped to ourselves. There Submitted photo in syrup. It was was only one extremely sweet. other couple in the large dining room with As someone who taught home economics mahogany tables, chairs and booths so we in Gilbert in 1973, I am so excited to see how did not wait long for our food. much the restaurant scene has changed. Our shrimp appetizer ($10.99) was a Gilbert is becoming a Mecca for foodies, colorful plate of tiger shrimp served with and we are all lucky to have such a variety of a grilled tomato with salad and rice. It was eating establishments to choose from and very spicy with a peppery blend that paired enjoy. nicely with the basmati rice. For our entrees we selected the pomegranate chicken ($9.99), ZK Grill which is the featured special on Friday nights, 835 N. Gilbert Rd. and the ground beef and filet combo ($13.99). Gilbert 85324 The special on Saturday and Sunday nights (480) 926-1353 is Deezee, a combination of lamp, garbanzo www.zkgrill.com beans, potatoes, tomatoes and onion.
BY KATHY KERBY
www.GilbertSunNews.com
with all sorts of gift ideas and free entertainment from the Campo Verde Jazz Band, Arizona Canine Freestylers, the Cloggers for Pound Animals in Need and more. A portion of the proceeds from the run/walk go to support Maricopa County Animal Care & Control and Friends of Animals Care and Control, as well as all participating rescues. For more, see www.12krun.com or call (480) 609-3978. This year’s 12k’s of Chiristmas is Saturday, Dec. 12. Submitted photo
Blue 32 several shades above average sports bar BY ALANA DEGOOYER
Forty-five minutes. This was the wait time at our new, favorite restaurant in South Gilbert: Blue 32 Sports Grill. When it comes to waiting for a table, this foodie doesn’t—or let’s be honest, can’t—wait more than 15 minutes. But were we willing to wait? Yes! In February, I first had the pleasure of experiencing Blue 32’s triple restaurant threat—excellent service and atmosphere, great prices and mouth-watering food. It was a whirlwind weekend of house hunting. My aunt from Surprise and one of my best friends from Kingman were with me. I’m pretty darn picky when it comes to eating out, and someone local suggested Blue 32. I am so happy that we took his suggestion, and he was right: We were not disappointed. I know what you’re thinking. Another dinner out at a sports-themed restaurant? Before you mentally, or literally, cross this hidden gem off of your must-try list, let me explain why it should head straight to the top. The service. First of all, you can dine outside, if preferred. We chose to dine al fresco, and when it’s February in Gilbert, that’s exactly where you want to be. Whether it’s lunch or dinner, busy or slow, the staff at Blue 32 really know how to keep their customers happy. They will answer questions, keep your glasses filled, and will correct any problem you may have—and all the while with a bright smile and desire to please. If you prefer to dine inside and bask in the glory of all things sports, there is plenty of seating. With more large-screen televisions than you can count, no one will miss out on their favorite game at Blue 32. The prices. As you’re pursuing the menu, you’ll notice that the prices are incredibly decent. All three of us had a nice lunch for less than $35. Going out for dinner will be similar in cost, and don’t forget that happy hour—from 3 p.m. to 7
p.m. Monday through Friday—has great deals for food and drinks. Diners can fill themselves with food and drink for less than $10. OK. Let’s move on to the real deal. The food. I have two words: Monte Cristo. Blue 32 prepares it brilliantly. Softcrust bread, good quality ham, turkey, Swiss cheese and American cheese battered and deep fried. Then it’s dusted with powdered sugar and served with raspberry preserves. The Monte Cristo is a variation of the French croque-monsieur. And we Americans have only improved upon this classic French delicacy. The Monte Cristo was the first menu item I tasted in February and it definitely won’t be my last. In addition to savory sandwiches, Blue 32 features fresh ground burgers, steaks and seafood, which are cut in house daily, salads and sandwiches with house made dressings and sauces, and a variety of local craft beers. Blue 32 is locally owned. There’s something to be said for a business that is locally owned and operated. The service is generally better. The prices and portion sizes are top notch. And overall, the food is high quality, and you just feel good about supporting a local restaurant. As the website promises, “although most of our guests would refer to us as a sports bar, and we are certainly a destination sports bar for prime sporting events (championships, tournaments, playoff scenarios), we pride ourselves on our fresh menu and delicious food.” For any diner, Blue 32 Sports Grill reads like a new chapter in East Valley dining. But don’t take my word for it. Try it for yourself. You won’t be disappointed. Of its four locations, two are in Gilbert: 1524 E. Williams Field Rd., (480) 9630032; and 6348 S. Higley Rd., (480) 2487002. For more information, visit www. blue32sportsgrill.com.
Business
www.GilbertSunNews.com
December 2015
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Healthy On-the-Run Salad and Go plans Valley domination with healthy eating fast-food concept BY JASMINE KEMPER
What if you could order healthy, fresh and delicious food at a drivethru? At Salad and Go, you can do just that. The Gilbert-based gourmet drive-thru offers a new take on fast food, serving up made-to-order salads, smoothies, wraps and more. About three and half years ago, award-winning Chef Daniel Patino helped develop this new healthy fastfood concept. As a child, he would help his grandmother in the kitchen, and that’s when he realized he had a passion for food. Two years before his enlistment with the Marine Corps ended, he held an apprenticeship at the historic U.S. Grant Hotel in San Diego. “I really fell in love with the industry and how everything worked,” Patino said. When he finished the Marine Corps, Patino attended the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco and landed a job at Stars Bar & Dining. From there, he worked all around the East Coast before making his way back to San Francisco. That’s when he started working under Chef Michael Mina, a celebrity in the San Francisco area. Mina asked Patino to be his executive chef at Bourbon Steak in Scottsdale. “He took me under his wing and taught me his philosophy on food, how to develop flavors and how to maximize ingredients,” Patino said. The now owners of Salad and Go frequented Bourbon Steak and asked Patino if he’d be interested in the idea of healthy fast food. Three and a half years, and four East Valley locations later, this healthy drive-thru is going with strong plans to grow throughout the Valley. “Salad and Go is flavorful, healthy food that people will come back and have because it’s really ingredient-driven. I think they have a misconception that healthy food isn’t tasty, and we’re making people realize that you can have healthy food and you can make it taste delicious and feel good about yourself when you’re eating,” Patino said. Salad and Go focuses on balancing flavors and keeping everything as fresh as possible. Even in a drive-thru atmosphere, they make all of their dressings and cut the romaine, fruits and vegetables daily. They have 12 dressings on hand at all times and
change them out with the seasons. “Yes, it’s a struggle, but that’s why we decided to do it. It’s not really out there. We treat ingredients the way they are supposed to be treated,” Patino said. Another thing that Salad and Go strives to do is use seasonal ingredients. Patino recommends starting off with their pear and banana smoothie. To celebrate the winter season, they combine winter pears, bananas, apple juice, spinach and a little bit of ice. “It’s literally three or four ingredients to keep it as healthy as possible. The banana really highlights the flavor in the pear,” Patino said. To continue the winter theme, he suggests trying the pear, pecan and celery salad. It blends together sliced pears, candied pecans, crisp celery, Craisins, bleu cheese, kale, romaine and balsamic honey mustard dressing. Wintertime is the perfect time to bring out celery and pears, and the Craisins balance out the strong bleu cheese. “It’s very simple but [with] very healthy ingredients. With the balsamic, we use extra virgin olive oil because it’s healthier for you. I didn’t want to do a plain old honey mustard, so I played around a little bit and came up with a balsamic, whole grain honey mustard, which is a little bit different but with some of the same flavors that people are expecting,” Patino said. The Brussels sprouts, bacon and almond salad takes its inspiration from a classic French dish, but Salad and Go added its healthy twist, Patino said. It mixes Brussels sprouts, bacon, sliced almonds, fresh-cut apples and half local-mixed greens and half romaine with a bit of feta cheese sprinkled on the top. Those three flavor profiles are the most present and then we balance that with a champagne vinaigrette, which has high acid levels to mellow out the strong flavors of the Brussels sprouts, and the bacon in there adds a little bit of fat into it,” Patino said. In this chilly weather, Patino also cooked up a healthy Southwestern chowder. It has roasted poblano peppers, free-range chicken, roasted corn, creamy red potatoes, onions, celery and two percent low-fat milk. The soup is velvety and fills you up without the addition of butter.
Salad and Go focuses on balancing flavors and freshness in a drive-thru atmosphere. Submitted photo
Chef Daniel Patino developed a concept of healthy fast food at Salad and Go. Submitted photo
Just like the salads, smoothies feature seasonal ingredients. Submitted photo
Salad and Go’s attention to flavors and quality ingredients are what keeps it unique. Ultimately, Patino hopes people will be open-minded about trying new and healthy dishes. “I want them to walk away saying, ‘I didn’t know healthy food could taste this good.’ To me, as a chef, the
challenge is to take food, make it taste really, really good and healthy at the same time,” Patino said. For more information about the restaurant, visit www. saladandgo.com.
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P.B. Bell acquires Bayside, renames it Alcove P.B. Bell—a multifamily real estate development, management and acquisitions company—has acquired Bayside at The Islands, a 272-unit apartment community in Gilbert. Moving forward, the community will be known as Alcove at The Islands. P.B. Bell purchased the lakeside apartment community, located at 1300 W. Warner Rd., from Duluth, Minnesotabased Mercury Investment Co. for $33.5 million. CBRE Phoenix sales professionals Tyler Anderson, Sean Cunningham, Asher Gunter and Matt Pesch brokered the transaction. The purchase becomes the third acquisition this year for P.B. Bell, which continues to search for additional acquisition opportunities. Alcove at The Islands is tucked inside the master-planned community The Islands. With waterfront homesites and lakeside picnic areas, the community offers a unique coastal feel in the heart of the desert. Alcove at The Islands includes two resort-style pools and a clubhouse, and units feature vaulted ceilings, woodburning fireplaces and in some cases, lake
views. “Alcove at The Islands affords us the opportunity to add additional lakeside living to the P.B. Bell portfolio, a unique feature for desert dwellers,” said R. Chapin Bell, P.B. Bell president. “We look forward to being part of Gilbert’s respected Islands community, and leaving our signature mark on Alcove at The Islands.” P.B. Bell has plans for a $2.5 million renovation of the property, which will include upgrades to the interiors of residences and common area amenities. The Islands, a sprawling community with 80 acres of lakes, includes more than 2,600 single-family homes in addition to the 272-unit apartment community. The lakes in the community are stocked with fish, and catch-and-release fishing is allowed with a permit. The greater Islands community also includes a community dock and facility rental, a playground, shaded ramadas and a full-size exercise track. P.B. Bell is actively seeking new acquisition opportunities in the Phoenix area. Call Phil Lake directly at 480-9512222 for more information.
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Career Connectors can help Rated one of the top networking associations in Phoenix, Career Connectors is offering help to adults in career transition. The nonprofit organization connects professionals to high-quality resources and hiring companies. Events are held three times per month, all available at no cost. The next meeting is 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8, at Central Christian
Church, Student Center, 965 E. Germann Rd., Gilbert. Each meeting includes professional career speakers with presentations on relevant job search topics, three to four featured hiring companies, networking, resume help, career coaches, LinkedIn coaches and business portraits. For more information, visit www. careerconnectors.org at (480) 442-5806.
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Osso brings Scottsdale acclaim home with Nico BY CHRISTINA CALDWELL
Coming from Scottsdale’s nationally lauded Virtù Honest Craft, chef Gio Osso decided to bring things home to Gilbert. The chef commuted to Scottsdale since Virtù’s 2013 debut, but his latest culinary adventure, Nico, will reside downtown and celebrate his Italian heritage. He’ll focus on the traditional, homemade, made-with-love recipes from his family’s roots in Calabria, Italy. Accolades like a James Beard Award nomination and being named one of Esquire’s Best New Restaurants came rather recently, but Osso’s passion for food came much earlier while sitting in a high chair in his family’s Italian kitchen. “I’ve been around food for forever. Going to Italy and spending my summers as a child, it became a passion of mine,” Osso said. “Food was everything. Family was first, food is second and everything else will fall behind it.” The “family first” rule will certainly permeate throughout Nico, which is named for Osso’s 21-month-old son, Nico, and expected to open in March. The chef will be expanding his family’s traditional recipes with an elevated flair, combining his years
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of culinary experience in New York City and his love for handcrafted recipes passed down from generation to generation. “I’m trying to bridge that gap, so I’ll use the classics from my hometown, aunts, uncles and grandparents, but I also try to make it today, with nicer presentation and things like that; try to modernize it a bit,” he said. While these might be versions of recipes he’s known for decades, that doesn’t mean Osso intends to rest on his laurels. The pressure is high to deliver remarkable dishes worth buzzing about, even if Nico’s atmosphere will be more relaxed. “Even though [Nico] is going to be a little bit more family-friendly in a sense and... Downtown Gilbert is very family-oriented, I still think that putting out the best possible product and people holding me to a higher standard because of Virtù, I have to deliver. And we will deliver. There’s no question about it.” Located in the Heritage Marketplace near Lolo’s Chicken & Waffles and Barrio Queen, Nico will be among buzzworthy company. Noticing that many chefs were looking to expand to locations in the Central Phoenix corridor, Osso decided to go a bit quainter with the new location, fitting the restaurant’s
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Gio, Nico and Bethany Osso are excited about Gio’s latest endeavor, a restaurant called Nico. Submitted photo
atmosphere. Though, at the rate that downtown Gilbert is growing and renowned chefs are descending upon the area, we can only expect more restaurateurs to take notice. “Gilbert...is growing as far as community and houses and building and things like that, so it needed a little restaurant area,” Osso said. “With what LGE [Design Build] is doing in that area, I thought it was a great idea, and because I live in Gilbert, I really wanted to get in on the ground floor. I think it will be
perfect, and it’s home for me, so I love that idea. I love it.” And Osso is intending Nico to stay in downtown Gilbert. While his son might not fully understand that the restaurant is named for him yet, he is getting the exact same high-chair-in-the-kitchen childhood as Osso did growing up. And he hopes Nico the restaurant will be enough interest to Nico, his son, to be passed down to the next generation one day.
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Help us fill in the map! W
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Global Tea Mart offers ‘total tea experience’ BY ALISON STANTON
Although Diane Eddy has fond memories of playing with a little tin teapot set when she was young, she credits an English crime novelist with truly sparking her passion for tea. “It was Agatha Christie who really got me interested in tea and got me wanting to take certification classes. All of her characters were always drinking tea,” she said. After owning an online tea shop for three years, Diane and her husband, Dean, recently opened the brick-and-mortar Global Tea Mart in Chandler. In addition to offering more than 100 teas and accessories, Diane said she enjoys teaching classes about tea. “I like to say that we offer the total tea experience,” she said. She started offering classes about tea five years ago in Sun Lakes. They go deeper than just sipping the hot drink. “In my classes, we explore the origins, history and differences between teas and the countries that they are from,” she said. “Tea has spawned religions, civilizations, wars and clipper ship racing. Tea has been and is currency for many countries.” Diane said Global Tea Mart focuses on outstanding customer service.
“If they know what tea they want we will be happy to get it for them, but if they don’t know, we will let them sniff the teas and sample them,” she said. “We consider ourselves to be tea guides, facilitators and ambassadors.” Customers who want to give loose leaf teas a try will find plenty to choose from, Diane said. Fancy tea bags shaped like pyramids are also a hit with customers. “The pyramid shape allows the leaves to expand, and we also sell herbal teas as well as mugs, teapots and tea aprons.” People who wish to take their favorite hot beverage with them wherever they go can purchase a tea wallet. Global Tea Mart also sells teas that are ideal for serving over ice, as well as flavored teas like Almond Amaretto Applause and teas that feature what Diane calls “fall aromas” like caramel, spice, chocolate and pumpkin. Diane, who said oolong tea is one of her favorites, said that every person tastes tea differently. “I always tell people that if your neighbor is making a face when drinking a tea, you may like it.” Diane said she and her husband are looking forward to the holiday season and helping shoppers find the perfect tea-
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At Global Tea Mart in Chandler, owners Diane and Dean Eddy enjoy getting to know their customers and helping them select the perfect tea for their tastes. Submitted photo
Global Tea Mart is located at 4991 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 5 in Chandler. For more information, call (480) 219-6211 or visit www.globalteamart.com.
related item for everyone on their list. “Tea is a wonderful gift for anyone who likes it, and we have gift items and sample packs of tea,” she said. “What I really enjoy is meeting people and talking tea with them, and we hope we will be their tea home.”
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December 2015
Fulton Homes opens 2 ‘low-maintenance’ communities Homebuyers looking for affordable, low maintenance homes have two new Gilbert communities from which to choose. Fulton Homes has opened its Union Pacific and Seaboard communities in Cooley Station, located at Recker Road north of Williams Field Road. Pricing begins in the $240s. “These particular communities are already a big hit with empty nesters looking to downsize their maintenance responsibilities,” said Doug Fulton, CEO of Fulton Homes. Union Pacific features six floor plans with alleyloaded garages, with sizes ranging from 1,985 to 2,500 square feet. All two-story floor plans have up to six bedrooms and three bathrooms options available. Three-car garages are also an option. All plans include spacious interior courtyards with large atrium doors. The eight floor plans available at Seaboard range from 1,677 to nearly 3,000
square feet, with all lots on traditional single-family lots. Up to six bedrooms and four-and-a-half baths are available, plus lofts, front porches and walk-in pantries. Each floor plan offers front-loading garages. Other standard features include granite countertops, 36inch maple cabinets and ceiling fans. “We’re finding buyers are surprised by all of the living space and openness of the homes at the Union Pacific and Seaboard Union Pacific communities,” Fulton added. “We’re seeing that more and more people like owning a low-maintenance home. Cooley Station provides that, along with the comfort of luxury living.” Cooley Station offers an Aquatic Center, walking trails with a basketball court and barbecue grills for family outings. The communities are located just minutes from ASU Polytechnic, SanTan Village and Williams Gateway Airport.
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December 2015
Chamber hosts series of events through December Throughout the year, the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce offers a variety of luncheons and meetings for its members and the community. Events are held throughout the town. The chamber office is at 119 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101. For more information about events or to register, call (480) 892-0056 or visit www.gilbertaz.com. Chamber Chat: Morning Presented by Aire Serve of East Valley Heating and Cooling 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 2 HG Roastery and Café 2556 S. Val Vista Dr., Suite 101, Gilbert Meet up with other Chamber members for breakfast. This informal gathering is a fun way to share conversation with other professionals and learn more about businesses in the community. No agenda, no script—just good food, great company and friendly conversation. Admission is $8 and includes a breakfast item, beverage and tax.
Economic Development Red Carpet Tour and Mayor’s Annual Business Address 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8 Banner Gateway Medical Center 1900 N. Higley Rd., Gilbert Be a VIP on this progressive Red Carpet Tour as the group takes a behind-thescenes look at leading developments in and around the community. Hear from Mayor John Lewis and Town Manager Patrick Banger on demographic updates and plans for further growth of the town. The Red Carpet Tour will include a rolling pass and narrative of new developments and on-site tours. The program will conclude with a luncheon presentation as Lewis presents the State of Business in Gilbert. Lewis will take a look back, then a look forward to present goals with an emphasis on the efforts to assist businesses and economic development. General admission is $50; Member admission is $35. Includes breakfast and lunch provided by Banner Gateway Medical Center.
Chamber Chat: After Hours Presented by Norwood Furniture 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9 Norwood Furniture, 216 N. Gilbert Rd., Gilbert Join the group for the Holiday Chamber Chat at Norwood Furniture. Norwood Furniture—a community landmark— looks forward to bring back this holiday tradition as they host guests for a special evening of hors d’oeuvres and conversation. In true holiday spirit, the team at Norwood Furniture will pay it forward—money from admission will support the Adopt-A-Senior holiday program and will be used to host a holiday party and gift items for Gilbert’s lowincome seniors. Attendees are encouraged to provide additional support for Gilbert’s homebound and low-income senior citizens by requesting the wish list of a local senior or by making a donation of the following items: blanket, robe, slippers, jacket, purse or wallet, pots and pans, indoor grill or griddle, puzzle,
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crossword search or puzzle book, candy, candle with candle warmer, magazines, jewelry, or gift cards for grocery or drug stores. Admission is $10.
Connie’s expands selection in advance of holidays Connie’s Jewelry Gallery and Clock Shop celebrates life’s special moments with its new jewelry lines—Gregario, Galatea, Persona—as well as a larger selection of Melody in Motion clocks. Whether it’s holiday gift giving, an engagement, anniversary or other special moments, Connie’s strives to offer its customers special items that will live on. The owner, Connie Finkbeiner, continues to work hard to offer items that sets her jewelry gallery apart from others. Gregario is one of the premier jewelry lines in Hollywood. Its decades-long trademark pays attention to the most exquisite of details. The styles are unique and inspired by modern trends. With a passion for design, Gregario offers contemporary and classic pieces. Connie’s infuses the best of both worlds and introduces customers to new keepsakes. Galatea also makes Connie’s unique. With the Galatea line, customers can place a special message, image or video inside a piece of jewelry. This new technology is placed inside a diamond, pearl or gemstone and gift-givers can simply tap their phone to the jewelry and the special moment is transferred to the piece. Customers love to record messages and save images of weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and last moments of life. A person can live in the jewelry forever. From the words “I love you” to words of encouragement to wedding vows and
Biblical passages, the line offers emotional connections that can be truly endless. The store, formerly located in Gilbert, also offers interesting gift ideas this season. The Persona charm line is interchangeable with Pandora, Carmela and a host of others. Finkbeiner brought the Persona line into her store because the charms are a higher quality and more colorful than others, and cost 10 percent to 30 percent less on average. With this line, Peanuts fans can recall their childhood with a line of jewelry centered on Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy and the rest of the gang decked out in holiday cheer. Connie’s expanded its Melodies in Motion Clock selection this season with more than a dozen clocks to choose from and a full wall display. These clocks are very popular as the center opens and reveals decorative turning wheels. They’re adorned with Swarovski crystals playing one of six to 18 songs, depending on the clock style with dancing figures and colors. Each clock has popular classic songs and even plays holiday tunes. The uniqueness of these clocks makes a perfect conversation piece and a wonderful holiday gift. Connie’s Jewelry Gallery and Clock Shop is located at 1900 W. Germann Rd., Chandler. For more information, call (480) 883-3320 or visit www. conniesjewelrygalleryandclockshop.com.
Connie Finkbeiner, the owner of Connie’s Jewelry Gallery and Clock Shop in Chandler, expanded her line of clocks and jewelry for the holiday season. Submitted photo
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Local company plans to revive the U.S. watchmaking industry BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON
Local businessman Kunal Naik is passionate about an industry that few Americans know much about— watchmaking. He’s hoping to change that though by making it a viable industry both locally and nationally. Naik, along with his father, Santosh, are the founders of Zee Watch Group (also known as Zee’s International Inc.), a Gilbert-based distributor for
Zee Watch Group was founded by Kunal and Santosh Naik. Submitted photo
Investing in the current economic climate BY JIM GENTRUP, CFA, PORTFOLIO MANAGER NETZEL FINANCIAL
The one thing that is a constant in today’s economy is uncertainty. Overall GDP growth in the United States is a paltry 2 percent, and our aging population may create a drag for years to come. This underscores the need to search for those parts of the economy that have a tailwind versus areas that are muddling along with an uncertain future over the next year or two. After all, why invest in areas where the outlook is murky when you have the choice. Part of the issue with many investors is that they tend to focus and worry about the weak parts of the economy and it creates
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watch brands in the United States and internationally for 20 years. “In 1995 we started out as a distributor for a brand of watches called Swistar; we began the business in a room in our house and have always been in Gilbert,” Naik said. “Today we are doing more than $1.5 million in sales and have two brands of our own.” Naik jokes that his two brands— Brillier and Swisstek—are his company’s “babies.” He explained that Swisstek watches are a high-end brand while Brillier watches are more moderately priced. Through his brands—Brillier in particular—Naik hopes to bring watchmaking back into the U.S. one step at a time. “The watch business is primarily associated with Switzerland, Japan and China, but few know that America used to be big in watchmaking until the Great Depression,” he explained. “I would love to bring facets of the industry back to the U.S. and am hoping to lead the charge of seeing the watchmaking industry big in America again.” Naik plans to revitalize the industry in a step-by-step process with the Brillier brand through its newly released Americana Collection. He explained that the Americana Collection consists of timepieces that represent different chapters in U.S. history. Both of the first watches released in this collection pay homage to the Native American cultures. More watches—i.e., chapters—are planned for the future, with each new
Kunal Naik want to revive watchmaking in the United Sates. Submitted photo
Naik’s company now does more than $1.5 million in sales. Submitted photo
addition to the line having more and more of its parts made in the Unites States as opposed to abroad. Essentially, Naik explained, if you compare the watch industry to a puzzle, he’s hoping to bring one piece at a time back to the United States. In the end— he estimated about five years down the road—he’d like to see a timepiece created solely in the United States. “The end goal of this entire process is to have a watch completely made in the U.S.A.,” he confirmed. According to the company, each timepiece in the Americana Collection will first be available over crowd funding sites like Indigogo and Kickstarter “where the money raised will go towards bringing back manufacturing and production to America.” The company hopes to involve backers in the process of watchmaking from start to finish by encouraging those who are interested to follow their progress online and through their newsletter. “I have long awaited my chance to get more involved with the design and artful practice of watchmaking and I am taking this passion project one chapter at a
time with the Americana Collection by Brillier,” Naik said. “My goal is to bring back the watchmaking culture full-force by bringing assembly and component production back to the States because who said the best watch has to be Swiss made?” In addition to his own business, Naik said that others have supported his lofty goals in the industry and he has even been approached to spearhead an American Watch Council. With a bachelor’s degree and MBA from ASU, Naik said that he’s been in the watchmaking industry more than half his life and is excited to see the industry grow. “I want to help curate products that are American and there is a lot of shared support for that from others in the industry,” he said. “And, I want to start the journey right here in Gilbert.” To learn more about the Americana Collection from Brillier, visit www.brillier. com/Americana. For more information on Zee Watch Group, visit www. zeewatchgroup.com.
doubt in their minds. This doubt leads to indecision and lost opportunity. Instead, focus your efforts on finding those pockets of the economy that have momentum with a high probability of sustainability. It could be a secular growth story, which is the ultimate “find,” or a cyclical industry that is just beginning to recover. In addition, look to invest during the early to middle innings (baseball fans will know what that implies). Here are just a few examples: It’s no secret that the energy industry is in the doldrums. Oil prices have been in decline since mid2014 due to the stronger dollar and weaker demand abroad. Meanwhile, supply in the United States has increased substantially due to new extraction techniques.
In addition, OPEC and Russia are unlikely to cut production. Although prices may have bottomed, a significant rebound is unlikely until production declines. In other words, we are in the middle innings. While the outlook is uncertain in the energy patch, why not focus on industries that are likely to benefit from low oil and natural gas prices? Chemical companies that are set to benefit include those that manufacture products such as industrial coatings, adhesives, alcohols, fibers and solvents. In the technology sector, increasing demand for IPbased video, especially on mobile devices, has led to strong growth in high-end servers that can process and store the plethora of data produced and eventually watched by consumers. We also like business services companies that help make their customers
more competitive. For example, when a sales rep of a large technology-service provider bids on a project, he wants to know as much as possible about what his competitor is offering and at what price. I have taken this short summary piece nearly full circle, discussing huge megasize industries like energy and finishing by commenting on a niche industry that serves a select group of technology companies. The point is that investors need to focus less on what the macro trends are and more on finding which industries will grow despite macro-economic conditions (or as a result of certain conditions). These discoveries take time, research and good judgment. This is where we thrive, whereas most people don’t have the time, energy or inclination. We focus on acting on our findings to enhance our clients’ goals. If you would like to learn more, call me at my office with Netzel Financial at (480) 219-0657.
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December 2015
Doing business True REST Float Spa
Owner: Laura Witte, Ph.D., PA-C How long in business: Just opened Specialty: To provide an oasis of healing. The most common benefits of floating include pain relief, stress relief and better sleep. Address: True REST Float Spa, 1525 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 109 Phone: (480) 219-7990 Website: www.TrueREST.com
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December 2015
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December 2015
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Under coach Mann, Perry VB skyrocketing in state rankings BY TYLER STRACHAN
The Perry High School girls volleyball team does not have a heralded history or a rich tradition of success and victory. But under head coach, Fred Mann, change is on the horizon. Mann was hired in 2013, inheriting a program that had achieved 12 wins in the two years prior, and was ranked
Coach Fred Mann. GSN photos by Tim Sealy
76th in the state. Since his arrival, the team has never won fewer than 25 games in a season. It has been the topic of chatter among the upper echelon of Arizona teams after claiming the No. 6 spot in the state rankings. When Mann was brought in to turn around the team, it was acknowledged that he could build a dynasty. “I love the sport of volleyball,” Mann said via e-mail. “I enjoyed playing so much, I would love others to find that same enjoyment. I am also extremely competitive, and the sport of volleyball fuels my competitiveness.’’ Born and raised in South Africa, Mann moved to the United States in 1991 at the age of 25, and played professional beach volleyball until 1995. When his playing career was over, Mann turned his attention to coaching, taking a position at Mountain Pointe High School in Tempe. During his time with the Pride, Mann led his boys and girls teams to a combined eight state championships over a 17-year tenure as head coach. This year’s team at Perry could easily be Mann’s best since his hiring, and after getting out to a 29-7 start to its season, it has the look of one of Mann’s championship-caliber groups at Mountain Pointe. But even with the hot start, Mann
Coach Fred Mann runs Varsity Senior Myla Durling through a few blocking drills. GSN photos by Tim Sealy
said he still believes his team hasn’t performed up to its full potential. “We feel as if there is more progress to be made,” Mann said. “We have some really athletic players, who are playing well.” The aura surrounding the program has begun to alter, and with each win, Mann and the Pumas get closer to completing the turnaround that they set out to achieve in 2013. And in 2015, it seems that Perry
finally has the rare and elusive combination of a winning formula and a talented roster. “Culture is perhaps more important than skill,” Mann said. “We place a ton of emphasis on being a good teammate, being unselfish, and adopting the philosophy of team.” “It also helps that we have good players.”
Arizona Athletic Training Center opens new club After a soft opening on Nov. 6, Arizona Athletic Training Center is planning a grand opening in January at its new club, located at 195 E Williams Field Rd., Suites 119-123. This new 10,000-square-foot facility layout is designed for quick and effective exercise. The club will have top-of-line cardio, new easy-to-use strength machines, free weights, group fitness classes, massage, MMA and martial arts. Dressing areas with private showers are also available. Premium members will enjoy Unlimited Group Exercise Classes for a fun and energetic fitness experience. Family friendly, Arizona Athletic Training Center offers a Kids Club and guest privileges. Customized personal training programs are offered to all
members. Arizona Athletic Training Center offers training programs for athletic performance enhancement which includes areas like strength, speed, power, endurance, flexibility, mobility, agility, nutrition, rehabilitation, prehabilitation, and injury risk reduction. Arizona Athletic Training Center provides its members with all the resources they need in a clean, comfortable and fun environment. The club has plenty of parking and is located on the southeast corner of Williams Field and Gilbert roads. Tours of Arizona Athletic Training Center and new member enrollments are available. For membership information, call the gym at (480) 821-8989 or visit www. azathletictrainingcenter.com.
Free weights are some of the equipment offered at Arizona Athletic Training Center.
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December 2015
39
Climbing the ranks
A local teen becomes an Eagle Scout For many, going through the ranks of Boy Scouts is a childhood rite of passage. One of the largest youth organizations in the U.S., the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) has more than 2.4 million young members and nearly 1 million adult volunteers, according to BSA statistics. The organization has been around for more than a century. “The BSA provides a program for young people that builds character, trains them in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and develops personal fitness,” cited the official BSA website, www. scouting.org. While millions participate in the national program, very few climb the ranks to earn the highest honor of Eagle Scout. In fact, according to the BSA, only 6 percent of all Boy Scouts earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 2013 (the last year of statistics available). One local teen recently earned the honor through hard work and a one-of-a-kind project that benefits the environment. Joseph Robert Malinski, 14, a freshman at Perry High School, has been an active member of Scouts for half of his life. “I started as a Cub Scout in third grade
with Pack 524 in Chandler,” he said. “I joined Troop 923 at Gilbert Redemption in 2012 and still am an active member. So, in total, [I’ve been a member] for seven years.” Malinski said his primary inspiration is his family. “My uncle an achieved the rank when he was a teenager and my parents have supported me and helped throughout my entire Scouting career,” he said. To earn the rank of Eagle Scout members have to go through a stringent application process and complete a large, multilayered project that gives back to the community. Inspired by his love of owls, Malinski chose to restore and build new burrowing owl habitats at the Maricopa Agricultural Center. He completed his project by working with Wild at Heart, a Valleybased nonprofit that serves as a rescue, rehabilitation and release center for birds of prey (which includes owls, hawks, falcons and eagles). “Recently, I’ve had a chance to view the results of my project firsthand, and many owls and their young are living in the burrows created at the project,” Malinski said. “I had a blast completing my project
Massey continues her popular children’s book series BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON
A Gilbert resident for more than 30 years, and a longtime farm and business owner, Rebecca Massey wanted to recapture her imagination. She did so in a unique way—by adding the title of children’s book author to her resume. Her creation, the Colton’s Pocket Dragon series, includes seven books (and counting) that tell the whimsical tale of an average boy named Colton who finds an egg that hatches and reveals a magical dragon. In each short story, Colton and his dragon have many escapades and learn timeless lessons. “They fly off on exciting adventures, in search of one Colton’s favorite animals or places, where they encounter all kinds of creatures to fight along the way,” Massey described. “Colton’s main goal on each adventure is to save his newfound friend from the monsters, where he has to create weapons from anything he finds along the way, to aid in the return of his friend back home to his family.” Massey said that she uses the “dragon books concept as the
background to teaching young people traditional values.” She added that her work demonstrates that dragon books can be something much more than simply fantasy tales. As of last month, Massey has published seven short stories in the Colton’s Pocket Dragon series, with several more in the works. The titles include: “Book 1: Dragon Land,” “Book 2: Iggy the Bigfoot,” “Book 3: Skylar the Dinosaur,” “Book 4: Meeting Santa Claus,” “Book 5: Tansy the Abominable Snowman,” “Book 6: Heaven” and “Book 7: Max the Race Car.” She’s working on “Book 8: The Dream” and “Book 9: The RC Airplane.” All of the titles are available online at Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble’s website. Massey said each book has been well received and has garnered positive reviews. So how does one go from a farmer and business owner to a children’s book author? Massey said she entertained the idea for years and remembered a story her grandson see MASSEY page 45
Joseph Robert Malinski, 14, a freshman at Perry High School, recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Submitted photo
and hope others strive to achieve this rank.” Through his Scouting experiences, Malinski has learned a variety of life skills, he said. “The most memorable things I’ve learned in Scouting are some important leadership skills and survival skills,” he confirmed. Another memorable thing I’ve learned is how to teach others and help them learn.” He added that he plans to give back to
the Scouts as an adult volunteer. “My plans for the future include receiving a college education and degree that will lead into a secure profession and continuing on with Scouts by mentoring younger Scouts and becoming a Scout leader later on in my life,” Malinski said. To learn more about Wild at Heart, visit www.wildatheartraptors.org.
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December 2015
Goal setting teaches toddlers and preschoolers lifelong skills Now that the New Year is approaching, millions of Americans have set goals for themselves on things they would like to do or improve upon. For parents and caregivers of children 5 and younger, this New Year’s tradition offers a wonderful opportunity to expand children’s learning. As 2016 approaches, parents can engage their children in conversations about past years’ celebrations and upcoming resolutions. Adults can share resolutions they have made in the past and talk about how setting goals helps us grow and learn. They can also talk with their children about setting realistic and achievable goals for themselves. The two most important parts of this conversation are: it must be a backand-forth dialogue between a caregiver and a child, and the child must arrive at their resolutions on their own. For toddlers and preschoolers, some simple resolutions might include: • Reading together for 30 minutes every day • Brushing teeth every day, or learning to do it on their own • Trying one new fruit or vegetable each month
HUNTERS
•
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STUDENT CHRONICLES
• Less TV or computer use to make time for family games or physical activity • Learning to tie their shoes or get dressed on their own • Getting to bed by a certain time every day • Learning a new sport or musical instrument. In these discussions, help your child decide how they will monitor their progress and what good rewards for progress might be: a new book, stickers on a calendar, a visit to a museum or local event, etc. As the year progresses, use successes or challenges as opportunities to talk about setting higher goals or adjusting old goals to be more realistic. Focus always on the positive—such as progress made or obstacles that have been overcome. At each step along the way, parents will see their children achieving their goals, but the process itself will strengthen parent-child relationships, build vocabulary (resolution is a big word) and contribute to skills—such as motivation, self-esteem and focus—that will serve our children now, once they enter school and throughout their lives.
JUMPERS
•
Know a student who’s doing something remarkable? Send items for student chronicles to christina@ timespublications.com. Boston University awarded academic degrees to 1,637 students in September 2015. Among the graduates was Jeffrey K. Davis, who earned a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Pediatric Dentistry. Founded in 1839, Boston University is an internationally recognized institution of higher education and research. Aaron Pinion was among the 930 graduates from the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas, this summer. The graduates represented 53 Kansas counties, 44 other states and 24 other countries. Emmalie Swartz was named to Biola University’s dean’s list for academic
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www.GilbertSunNews.com excellence. The university is located in La Mirada, California. She was one of 1,566 students who were named to the dean’s list. Biola students are placed on the dean’s list to honor those with a grade point average of 3.6 or higher while enrolled in 12 of more credit units and whose cumulative grade point average is at least a 3.2. Sydney Kern has been selected for the 201516 Harding University Chorus in Searcy, Arkansas. Following auditions at the beginning of the fall semester, students were chosen for the 60-member ensemble that performs on and off campus. Kern performs choral classics, new works, spirituals, opera, folk songs, novelties and contemporary Christian songs. The chorus also travels throughout the United States and the world to perform for a variety of audiences. Taking an extended tour in January and shorter trips during the school year, the group holds numerous concerts on campus and in the community.
December 2015
Providing Role Models from Cradle to College
Kayla Vance has been selected for the 2015-16 Belle Canto women’s choir at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. Following auditions at the beginning of the fall semester, female student vocalists were chosen for the almost 60-member ensemble. Vance performs a selection of sacred and secular pieces. The group consists of a variety of majors and talented singers in all disciplines.
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Allyson Dell’Amico was named to the 2015 Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Volleyball All-Academic Team. Dell’Amico, an engineering major, earned All-Academic First Team accolades. To qualify for First Team All-Academic consideration, a student-athlete must carry a 3.30 cumulative grade point average and must have been an active student at the institution for at least two consecutive semesters or three consecutive quarters. All players who were not voted to the first Team AllAcademic were automatically qualified for the All-Academic Honor Roll.
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Four East Valley musicians recognized by All-American Bowl BY KENNETH LAFAVE
Eight of the 125 best high school marching band musicians in the country live in Arizona, and half of those live in the East Valley. So says the U.S. Army, which recently announced that Jacob and Zachary Lythgoe, seniors at Campo Verde High School, and Caroline Earnhardt and Sienna Samour, seniors at Perry High School in the Chandler Unified School District, will participate in the 2016 U.S. Army All-American Bowl on Saturday, Jan. 9, in San Antonio. The All-American Bowl is the equivalent of a national, high-school all-star game, complete with the country’s best high school band musicians at halftime. “It was a shock to be chosen, when there more than 1,300 applicants and only 125 made it. That’s less than one in 10,” said Earnhardt, who plays the Sousaphone, or marching tuba. “It was a shock, but cool.” “We didn’t even know we were getting nominated until after our director turned our names in,” said Jacob Lythgoe of his and his brother’s nomination. “It was a surprise that both of us got in. I guess if only one of us had made it, that wouldn’t have been good.” Jacob plays the trumpet, and Zachary plays the mellophone, a marching version
Jacob and Zachary Lythgoe, shown with band director Matt Kozacek, received special jackets at a ceremony Nov. 12 announcing their participation in All-American Band. Submitted photo
of the French horn. Jacob and Zachary are two-thirds of a set of triplets; their sister, Rachel, does not play an instrument. Applicants for the honor had to be seniors and nominated by their band director. The audition process consisted of three parts: a performing audition, a marching audition, and a personal, selfinterview. It was the personal interview that caused Samour the most trouble. “I wanted to present myself in a way that made me seem confident and appreciative, but every time I got in front of the camera,
I couldn’t put the words together,” said the clarinetist. “It took 10 or 11 times to get it right.” For Earnhardt, coordinating the camera for her marching audition was the hardest thing. All four agreed that the playing audition was the most gratifying to put together. Matt Kozacek, director of bands at Campo Verde, nominated the Lythgoes, and Brandon Kiesgen, band director at Perry, nominated Samour and Earnhardt. “These are obviously great players,” Kozacek said. “But there is something
else you need to be at this level in band, something people don’t think about. You have to show responsibility and accountability in order to manage your time.” Marching bands typically practice on the field two nights a week, practice in class an additional two or three times during the school week, and play football games on Fridays. Then there’s individual practice. “We practice a lot,” Zachary says, speaking for him and Jacob. “An hour a day for each of us, plus homework. There are some late nights.” The 2016 U.S. Army All-American Bowl will air on NBC. The Army makes no bones about using the All-American Bowl partly as a recruiting tool, both for the athletes and the musicians. Though neither Jacob nor Zachary expressed interest in the recruitment aspects of the All-American Bowl, both Caroline and Sienna said they were thinking about it. “I’d already been considering the military because of the music. I’d like to be in a band,” Earnhardt said. “I will meet with Army reps in San Antonio,” Samour said. “My dad is encouraging me to at least think about it.”
December 21st - 24th December 28th - 31st Option 1: Guitar, Piano, Drums, Theory Option 2: Voice, Improv, Acting
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December 2015
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Burk Elementary a D-backs Challenge winner Burk Elementary School was one of 22 educational facilities throughout the state that won funds from the D-backs $100,000 School Challenge. Burk Elementary will use the grant money to purchase a license for the Reflex Math Site. Reflex helps students of all ability levels to develop fluency with their basic math facts. Burk’s Principal Brad Paes said, thanks to this grant, the school will be able to purchase Reflex. “We have used Reflex through a pilot program and have witnessed the effectiveness of this unique program,” Paes said. “We thank the Diamondbacks Foundation for making this purchase possible for our students.” With more than 300 submissions from Arizona schools, the winning grants come from all around Arizona and will fund projects ranging in need from school improvements to innovative educational programs. Through the School Challenge program, the D-backs have provided
more than 120 schools with grants for an overall monetary commitment of more than $600,000 since the program launched in 2012. “The D-backs are excited to once again partner with University of Phoenix to provide Arizona schools with much needed funding through our School Challenge program,” said D-backs President and CEO Derrick Hall. “Each year the applications get more creative and we see that in many cases this type of funding is a necessity. We are proud to be able to help schools across the state to encourage innovative educational programs and to assist where it is so desperately needed.” Each winning school will be honored and receive a check on the field at a 2016 D-backs game next April and May at Chase Field. The D-backs will donate 1,000 tickets for students, parents, teachers and staff to attend the D-backs’ game in which their school will be honored.
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www.GilbertSunNews.com MASSEY from page 39
would love—one about a magical dragon. Then, one day, she began to put pen to paper and her stories were born. She was encouraged by her husband to pursue publishing her books—and added that her grandson, while now grown, still loves the stories. One unique aspect of the children’s book series is that they touch on both humorous and serious topics. “‘Book 6: Heaven’ was inspired by the untimely passing of my father last year. Writing this book was the hardest thing I have ever had to do. I cried a million tears writing this story. This book is a good way for children to help cope with the loss of a loved one,” Massey said.
“...’Book 7: Max the Race Car’ is a hilarious story about Colton and all his dragons taking his father’s race car for a drive. The idea for this book comes from my husband’s 1963 Plymouth Belvedere racecar named Max.” Massey said that the ideas for the book series are endless and she hopes they continue. Recently, she added a new character named Zinnia, which adds a new twist to Colton’s adventures. “Writing about little dragons this is the perfect thing for the young people to connect with,” she said. To learn more about the Colton’s Pocket Dragon series, visit www. coltonspocketdragon.com.
December 2015
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December 2015
Desert Choice Schools provides special education program to HUSD BY ALISON STANTON
Thanks to an innovative program from Desert Choice Schools, special education students in the Higley Unified School District are getting the help they need on their school campuses. Rick Weathers, president of the Desert Choice Schools advisory board, said traditionally, many students with special needs are transported out of the district to private day schools. In some cases, Weathers said, the students would spend up to two hours a day on a bus traveling between campuses. “This meant students were losing quality instructional time,” he said. In an effort to keep special needs students on their home campuses and not spend valuable learning time on transportation, Weathers said the Desert Choice Schools program takes place at the students’ school. HUSD is one of two school districts with which Desert Choice Schools is working; the other is the Buckeye Unified School District. “We started with one classroom in the Higley Unified School District and our program has been very successful,”
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Weathers said. This year, 36 students from the district are part of the Desert Choice Schools program. One benefit of the Desert Choice Schools program, Weathers said, is that it works along with the school administration, teachers, parents and students to make sure the children’s needs are being met without placing a burden on the already financially challenged school system. Another bonus, Weathers said, is that students who are part of the program are more likely to be reintegrated back into the mainstream classrooms. “Our student reintegration rate is as much as 30 percent. In a lot of cases, students were struggling for years, but we have been able to meet their needs and help them succeed,” he said. Dr. Diane Bruening, HUSD’s executive director of special education, said the three dozen students who are part of the Desert Choice Schools program range in age from kindergarten through seventh grade. “It’s all about providing very high quality teaching and support for the special needs
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Special needs students in the Desert Choice Schools program in the Higley Unified School District can stay right on campus for their school day, instead of spending up to two hours a day being bused to and from a day school. Submitted photo
kids who are found in most schools,” she said. “Desert Choice Schools provides laserlike support to our high needs population, and the student support is more intensive than our schools’ programs.” Bruening said parents have been very pleased with the Desert Choice Schools program and their children’s results. “I no longer have to have conversations with parents and students about busing them to another city,” she said. “Parents are very comfortable that their
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child is still in the Higley Unified School District, and Desert Choice Schools has a schedule just like ours, so if parents have more than one child in our district, it just works beautifully for that.” Bruening said she is very pleased that HUSD is working with Desert Choice Schools. “We have had very few problems or issues, and I get calls from parents that are reporting good news,” she said. “Parents routinely tell me about the success that their kids are having.”
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Spirituality
December 2015
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Spiritual Reflections
Keep to the path: in response to vandalism BY THE REV. ANDY BURNETTE, VALLEY UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION
About a week ago, Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation (VUU) joined Unitarian Universalist congregations around the country in displaying a “Black Lives Matter” banner on our campus. Our banner symbolizes our support for the Black Lives Matter movement. It is a small part of our congregation’s burgeoning work on race and ethnicity. We are ramping up our efforts in light of the deaths of so many African Americans at the hands of police, the disproportionate rate of imprisonment of young AfricanAmerican men, and, more generally, the racism that persists in the American system. Dozens of our members signed the banner, including many of our children, as a symbol of their individual support. Two days later, the word “Black” was papered over with “All,” and several signs reading “All Lives Matter,” made with paper and permanent marker, were taped up around our campus. When the signs were removed, the word “All” was spray-painted over the word “Black” on our banner. You can see the vandalism in the photo.
Then, the banner was stolen, and we filed a police report. This crime reminds us that work for justice is often unpopular. It leads me to the following few thoughts: Vandalism of a banner pales in comparison to the theft and destruction of black bodies in the United States. The Washington Post reported that an unarmed black man is killed by police every nine days. Some argue the Post under-reported the numbers. Forty percent of people incarcerated in the United States are black Americans, and about 50 percent of the women incarcerated are black, while only 13 percent of the U.S. population is black, according to the latest Census data. According to Unlock America and the NAACP, if Hispanics and blacks were jailed at the same rate as whites, the U.S. prison population would decrease by 50 percent. We will not confuse our very minor incidents with the real issues. All lives matter? Yes...and no. Some say “Black Lives Matter” singles out blacks in a way that devalues other lives. Not so. Truly we believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every single person. VUU
be our guest this Sunday!
has done work around immigration, homelessness and LGBT rights, to name but a few issues. But black lives have been singled out for abuse in our country. They were separated from their families and marched across the south to be sold as farm implements, denied the right to vote, killed and beaten bloody during the civil rights era, and are still oppressed today, as the above statistics show. Maybe we will know that all lives matter when we can proclaim that black lives matter without controversy. We must keep the goal in mind. As stated in the Black Lives Matter guiding principles: “We are committed to collectively, lovingly and courageously working vigorously for freedom and justice for black people and, by extension, all people. As we forge our path, we intentionally build and nurture a beloved community that is bonded together through a beautiful struggle that is restorative, not depleting.” The goal is love and justice, but the work is anything but easy. It wasn’t easy in the days of the Underground Railroad, it wasn’t easy in the civil rights era, and it isn’t easy now. But we are called by Unitarian Universalist values to continue, and over time to deepen, our witness for justice. Black Lives Matter co-founder Opal Tometi wrote earlier this year in Huffington Post, “Many thought that the abolition of slavery, the end of Jim Crow and the legislative progress of the civil rights era, among other watershed moments, would have fundamentally done away with the racist structures that have long oppressed
2175 S. Gilbert Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85295 480.857.0455 visit mydgbc.org Sundays 10am & 6pm Wednesdays 7pm
black people. However, we know that has been far from the case. There’s been persistent and concerted effort to erode the gains of the black liberation struggles throughout the years, hindering black progress.” Replacing these structures (like the justice and prison structures) with systems which truly value black lives is the work before us. We look to people of color for leadership. It will not be easy. It will not be quick. But let us have courage and keep to the path.” Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation provides a welcoming diverse community that nurtures each person’s lifelong spiritual journey, creates a place of peace and celebration and strives for social justice and sustainable living. Within this liberal religion, VUU members seek to create lives of integrity, service and joy. VUU is located at 6400 W. Del Rio St. in Chandler. For information, call (480) 899-4249; check out the Facebook page at Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Chandler AZ; or visit www.vuu.org.
Good News is bringing new hope to congregation BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
Desert Gateway Baptist Church
VUU’s Black Lives Matter sign was recently vandalized. Submitted photo
After a U.S. Supreme Court victory and the retirement of the Rev. Clyde Reed, Good News Presbyterian Church is being reborn. The Rev. Dr. Charles H. Roberts now heads the congregation and he’s hoping to put the directional sign issue behind his organization and focus on Good News. “It consumed so much of the church’s time,” Roberts said. “We’re looking at where we want to refocus and what we offer in terms of ministry and outreach. “A lot of people have many choices to choose from. Unfortunately that’s part of the competitive world we live in. We’re still in an exploratory mode, however, of what sorts of things we’ll be doing.” The location—Gilbert Elementary
School—will remain the same. But it has more outreach projects planned. “The church is more than just a meeting place,” he said. Good News Presbyterian Church is taking part in the Shoebox Ministry, which is affiliated with Samaritan’s Purse. Samaritan’s Purse will provide participants with decorative shoeboxes and fill them with different items. “It’s a means of helping those who won’t be getting anything for Christmas,” he said. Roberts has been with Good News Presbyterian Church since the beginning of October, having moved here from the East Coast. “I first came here in 2003 on vacation and fell in love with it,” Robert said. “I’ve
Spirituality
www.GilbertSunNews.com been trying to find a way to get here ever since.” There was mission work available in Chandler and Gilbert, but practically speaking, there really wasn’t a firm opportunity until Reed retired. He worked in the food and beverage industry until he heard the “good news” about Reed’s retirement. “But all of life is religion,” he said. “Culture is the externalization of a religious belief. God’s people—wherever they are—are going to be confronted with other social ideas”
The Rev. Dr. Charles H. Roberts is the pastor at Good News Presbyterian Church. GSN photo by Tim Sealy
What difference does Jesus make in my life?
Worship guide There is a place of worship for a variety of religions in Gilbert. Here is a partial list of some of the congregations in the town. Want to be added to this list? Email christina@gilbertsunnews.com. The Bridge Church 860 E. Warner Rd., Suites 101 & 103 Gilbert 85296 480-294-7888 www.bridgechurchaz.org Services: 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sundays We exist to show the world who Jesus is, and we believe that when people get to know Jesus as He really is, their lives will change forever. Therefore, it is our passion to help people know Jesus throughout Gilbert, Metro Phoenix and the world. Central Christian Church—Gilbert 965 E. Germann Rd., Gilbert 85297 www.centralaz.com Services: 5:30 p.m. Saturdays; and 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. 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. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 3301 S. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert 85297 (480) 822-5000 www.lds.org/church/temples/gilbertarizona?lang=eng For more information about the church, visit the website above. First United Methodist Church of Gilbert 331 S. Cooper Rd., Gilbert 85233 (480) 892-9166 www.gilbertumc.org Services: 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. (traditional services) and 11 a.m. (contemporary service) Sundays There are two traditional services—8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.—with 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.
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Christmas Eve Service Thursday December 24 5 – 6 pm
Gilbert Presbyterian Church 235 E. Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert 85234 (480) 892-6753 www.azgpc.org Services: 8:30 a.m. 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 with everyone. Living Water United Methodist Fellowship Highland Park Elementary School 230 N Cole. Dr., Gilbert 85234 www.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. Mission Community Church 4450 E. Elliot Rd., Gilbert 85234 (480) 545-4024 www.mission68.org Services: 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturdays; and 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 11:59 a.m. Sundays 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 Rd, Gilbert 85233 (480) 632-2220 www.gilbert.redemptionaz.com/ about/a-brief-overview/ Services: 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m. 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,
Sunday Worship: Traditional - 7:30 & 9:00 am Contemporary - 9:00 & 10:45 am Special Advent Services: Dec. 2, 9, & 16 - 6:30 pm Christmas Eve Worship: Dec. 24 at 3:00, 5:00, 7:00 and 11:00 pm Christmas Day Worship: Dec. 25 at 9:00 am New Years Eve Worship: 6:30 pm
130 N. Oak St., Gilbert 85233 (480) 719-5343 www.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.
and 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. 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.
San Tan Bible Church 1424 S. Promenade Lane, Gilbert 85296 Phone number not available. www.santanbible.org Services: 8:30 a.m. (Bible hour); 9:30 a.m. (Café 2:42) and 10 a.m. worship service Sundays The church believes the glory of God is the chief end of all we do.
Two Rivers Church 326 E. Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert 85234 (480) 892-2435, www.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 Rd., Gilbert 85296 (480) 632-8920, www.sunvalleycc.com Services: 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Saturdays;
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Hale Theatre’s ‘Christmas Carol’ shows it’s never too late BY KENNETH LAFAVE
More than 1,800 dramatic versions of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” have found their way to the stage in the 172 years since the novella was published. The story of a mean-spirited man brought to his senses by visions of the past, present and future has captivated theater audiences as well as readers, and helped to lend iconic stature to the names of Ebenezer Scrooge, Marley’s Ghost and Tiny Tim. But, what’s the story really about? What is the significance of “A Christmas Carol” as a Christmas story? “The main message is it’s never too late to change,” said David Hale Dietlein, coowner of Gilbert’s Hale Theatre and the director of the Hale’s annual “Christmas Carol” production. “Scrooge is already an established, hard-chiseled personality when Marley’s Ghost visits, but he still manages to change. It shows that it’s never too late in our lives. Even if we’ve gotten into bad situations, we can make it turn around. “It’s about hope and renewal in the holidays. We can’t give up on trying to change the world for the better.”
The Hale Theatre’s script dates back to the 1960s, at the original Hale Theatre in Glendale, California, founded by Dietlein’s grandparents. They commissioned a script by Ted Lehman that served as a kind of blueprint for all future Hale productions, though alterations through the decades have all but erased the original. “Our version has gone off in many different directions,” Dietlein explained. “If you stick too close to the book, it can get too wordy for the stage. We’ve added music, dance, production numbers.” And this year, they’ve made the ghost even scarier. How’d they do that? “I don’t want to give away any secrets, but let’s put it this way: We advise against any children under age 5 attending, because the ghost will be too real for them.” Gilbert’s Hale Theatre has presented “A Christmas Carol” every year since its founding in 2003, and every year, Dietlein has personally directed and overseen the changes. The result has been so popular that, this year, the company will present it more times than ever before: Two different casts will tread the boards
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In Hale Theatre’s “A Christmas Carol,” even Scrooge can change. Submitted photo
for 43 performances of “A Christmas Carol,” between Dec. 3 and Dec. 24. Performances will be staged on all days but Sundays, and tickets range from $20 to $36. Call (480) 497-1181 or visit www.HaleTheatreArizona.com for more information. With productions of “A Christmas
Carol” running the gamut from dark and foreboding to light and sweet, Dietlein likes to think of his version embracing it all: “Our ‘Christmas Carol’ will take you from meaningful to fun to dramatic to artsy. Everything combined in one, big package.”
Saturday January 9, 2016 at Kiwanis Park Join the fun at the inaugural Making it a Joint Effort Ortho Fun Run/Walk. This run has an event for everyone, including a 5K or 1 Mile Run/Walk and a 100 Yard Dash, so bring your family and friends! The fun starts at 8am.
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Proceeds from the run benefit the Orthopedics departments at Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert Medical Centers, which support the Total Joint Replacement and Sports Medicine programs.
100 Yard Kids’ Dash
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$30.00 $35.00
1 Mile Run/Walk Through Dec 13 After Dec 13 Through Dec 13 After Dec 13
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For more information call 480-728-3931 or visit events on our website at supportdignityhealtheastvalley.org
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People Who Could Fly prepare to let new record soar BY GABRIEL CUSHING
Valley-based band People Who Could Fly is wrapping up a four-month recording process by featuring its new EP “Neon Electric” during a concert in San Tan Valley. People Who Could Fly—which features Tempe’s James Mills on lead vocals; Fletcher Milloy of Chandler on guitar and vocals; Gilbert’s Levi Siwek on guitar and bass; Tempe resident Josh Paige on drums and vocals, and Ahwatukee’s Jacob Paige on bass and keys—will perform at Polar Fest on Saturday, Dec. 5. The EP features the songs “Pressure,” “Empty Days” and the title track. Mills, who also serves as assistant manager, said the pop-rock act was “pretty darn excited” about the EP, for which People Who Could Fly worked with Grammy-winner Robb Vallier. “It was actually really cool,” Mills
The Valley pop-rock band People Who Could Fly will play cuts from “Neon Electric” when it plays Polar Fest in San Tan Valley on Saturday, Dec. 5.. Photo by Mia Scibona
said. “It felt like the right way to make a record. He helped us get our ideas streamlined, and motivated us to get the best possible work done.” In light of its recent successes, People Who Could Fly has been giving some thought to the idea of starting a West Coast tour. Its live credits so far include opening for Howard Jones and Rick
Springfield, and performing for patients at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. “We are hoping to book a tour in the next year,” Mills said. “We’re hiring a new manager which will allow us to expand. We’d benefit from a West Coast tour. Probably around Phoenix and Las Vegas; places close, where we could drive.”
People Who Could Fly perform between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at Polar Fest, J.O. Combs Middle School, 37611 N. Pecan Creek Dr., San Tan Valley. For more information, including admission fee and entertainment schedule, visit www.polarfest.net.
Ahwatukee Foothills Nutcracker Ballet features Gilbert residents
Classic blockbusters continue through end of year Retro is hip, and Harkins Theatres are celebrating all things “old” by presenting the Tuesday Night Classics. For $5, guests can relive their favorite films on the big screen at theaters throughout the Valley, including SanTan Village’s Harkins. Movies start at 7 p.m. The remainder of the year the following movies will be shown: • “Christmas Vacation,” Dec. 1 • “Elf,” Dec. 8 • “A Christmas Story,” Dec. 15 • “The Polar Express,” Dec. 22.
Info: www.HarkinsTheatres.com/TNC. Harkins is also offering Loyalty Cups and Loyalty T-shirts for sale for $5.25 and $25. The chain will reward moviegoers with $1.50 soft drink refills every time they bring their Loyalty Cup to the movies, and one free medium popcorn with ticket purchase each time they wear their Loyalty T-shirt to the movies through the end of 2016. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of T-shirts will be donated to Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Info: www. HarkinsTheatres.com/store.
Dancers from around the Valley, ages 3 to 18, have been rehearsing since August for the upcoming performances of “Nutcracker” in December. Dancers in the Ahwatukee Foothills Ballet Cast live in Casa Grande, Phoenix, Maricopa, Scottsdale, Peoria, Gilbert, Tempe, Chandler, Mesa, Paradise Valley and Glendale. The performances will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19. The performance will be held at Desert Vista Fine Arts Theater, 16440 S. 32nd St., Phoenix. Tickets are on sale at Dance Studio 111, located at 4910 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite 111, Phoenix, or by phone at (602) 706-6040, or by email at afnutcracker@ gmail.com. Attendees are invited to visit the stage to meet Santa Claus and the cast members. The actors will sign autographs following the performance at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19. Audience members can also sit and take photographs on Clara’s Throne in the Land of Sweets, and take photographs
with the Nutcracker, Mouse King, Sugar Plum Fairy and Clara and many other cast members. To purchase tickets, call (480) 706-6040, or visit http://afnutcracker.com.
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ON STAGE “A Christmas Carol,” Thursday, Dec. 3, through Thursday, Dec. 24, HCT. The heartwarming version of Dickens’ classic take of redemption is magically brought to life on the Hale stage. Phoenix Children’s Chorus 2015, “When You Believe,” Saturday, Dec. 5, HCPA. Celebrate the season with the angelic strains of the 350-member Phoenix Children’s Chorus. Mannheim Steamroller, Sunday, Dec. 6, MAC. Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features the beloved Christmas music of Mannheim Steamroller, along with dazzling multimedia effects performed in an intimate setting. The Milk Carton Kids with Julian Lage, Monday, Dec. 7, MAC. Grammy-nominated harmony duo The Milk Carton Kids are a refreshing alternative to the foot stomping grandeur of the folk revival. Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox, Tuesday, Dec. 8, MAC. Its work has been viewed on the YouTube channel more than 100 million times.
Dwight Yoakam, Thursday, Dec. 10, HAC. The country legend will perform at the Ak-Chin Circle Field.
Dave Koz & Friends, Wednesday, Dec. 16, MAC. Saxophonist extraordinaire Dave Koz returns with his friends Candy Dulfer, Jonathan Butler and Bill Medley. “Winter Wonderland,” Friday, Dec. 18, MAC. The Phoenix Boys Choir presents a joyful medley of music that includes traditional carols such as “Winter Wonderland” and “Silent Night.” Southwest Youth Ballet Presents “The Nutcracker,” Friday, Dec. 18, through Sunday, Dec. 20, HCPA. The Southwest Youth Ballet brings this holiday classic to life.
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Gin Blossoms, Saturday, Dec. 19, HAC. The Gin Blossoms will play such songs as “Hey Jealousy,” “Follow You Down,” “Found Out About You” and many more.
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Arch Allies: The Music of Journey, REO Speedwagon and Styx, Friday, Dec. 11, HCPA. Arch Allies covers three important bands from the 1980s and beyond. Mesa Arts Festival, Saturday, Dec. 12, through Sunday, Dec. 13, MAC. The Mesa Arts Festival is the premier place to find unique gifts for the holidays.
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CCA—Chandler Center for the Arts 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler Tickets: (480) 782-2680, www.chandlercenter.org
Riverdance, Tuesday, Jan. 12 through Sunday, Jan. 17, MAC. The international Irish dance phenomenon is on its 20th anniversary world tour with an innovative and exciting blend of dance, music and song. Lee Ann Womack, Sunday, Feb. 21, CCA. Country Album of the Year nominee Lee Ann Womack sings hits from her most acclaimed albums. Alton Brown Live: Eat Your Science, Thursday, May 12, MAC. Fans can expect more comedy, talk show antics, multimedia presentations and music.
HAC – Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino 16000 N. Maricopa Rd, Maricopa Tickets: (480) 802-5000 or www.harrahsaskchin.com HCPA—Higley Center for the Performing Arts 4132 E. Pecos Rd., Gilbert Tickets: (480) 279-7190 or www.higleyarts.org HCT—Hale Centre Theatre 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert Tickets: (480) 497-1181, www.haletheatrearizona.com MAC—Mesa Arts Center One E. Main St., Mesa Tickets: (480) 644-6500, www.mesaartscenter.com
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Standing Out Echosmith finds its own identity among plenty of ‘Cool Kids’ BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
Echosmith’s song “Cool Kids” carries the message of self-worth and selfacceptance. But sometimes, lead singer Sydney Sierota said, it’s hard to subscribe to that belief. Her band—which includes her brothers Jamie, Noah and Graham—has toured for three years, mostly on its 2013 debut album Talking Dreams, and recently announced that it’s going on a break to record a new collection. The three years have been educational. “I think learning that having your own identity is a big deal,” Sierota said. “There are so many other artists and bands out there. It’s easy to feel like, ‘Man, maybe I should try avoiding that kind of music because that’s working. Or maybe I should look like this.’ “Naturally, in this world, you’re going to compare yourself to others. That does relate to the message of ‘Cool Kids.’ It’s funny because we’re finding that we relate to the song more so now than when we wrote it.” Sierota said she and her brothers have continued to learn self-acceptance over the last three years. “It’s important to be yourself,” she said. “That what people really fall in love with. That’s what they connect to.” But Sierota said her profession isn’t any different than others. “Every profession has its own differences and challenges,” she said. “In the end, I’m not complaining, but everybody has their thing and their stuff they have to deal with and work through and address in their personal life and professional life. I think everyone goes through it. There are plenty [of] things that people have to deal with in this industry and a lot more maybe sometimes.” Echosmith’s profession brings it to the Celebrity Theatre for a Thursday, December 3, charity show with Adam Lambert. Arizona shows are meaningful for the Californiabased band. “I love Arizona. Plus we have family there, and that makes it even better—my grandparents, a few of our cousins and aunts and stuff. There are quite a few people, actually.” The Celebrity date is one of a few Echosmith will play before heading off the road to record the aforementioned new album. The act’s plans were laid out in a heartfelt letter on its homepage.
Echosmith. Photo by Nicole Nodland
“I’m so happy you think it’s moving,” Sierota said. “It took us awhile to figure out what to say.” In the letter, which mentions the siblings were in their teens when they wrote Talking Dreams, they say: “We do not take lightly that most people do not get to experience these kinds of opportunities and we are beyond grateful for every single one of them.” The success includes three hits, including “Cool Kids;” “Let’s Love” and “Bright” are the other two. Echosmith hopes to replicate that success on the new album, which is in the very formative stages. “We’ve started slowly [writing],” she said. “We literally just got off the road less than a week ago. We’re slowly starting to write again and we have some ideas. We don’t have anything close to finished yet. We’re trying to write songs and go from there. “Lots has happened to us in life, and musically I hope we’ve improved,” Sierota adds with a laugh. “It’ll be interesting to see what comes out.” Those experiences include being a surprise guest during two of Taylor Swift’s shows. “Taylor’s super sweet and obviously talented,” she said. “It was a great experience both times that we did it. It was really cool. Her crowds are so excited and they scream louder than you’ve ever heard. She’s a great person and to have that opportunity is great. I’m really thankful that she wanted us to sing with her on her tour. She could have asked anybody. It’s something we’ll never forget.”
Perhaps her biggest thrill was playing on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” “That was a big step for us,” she said with a smile that transcended the phone line. “That was always on our bucket list. We would watch it every night. It was such a dream come true. “It’s hard to determine which are the biggest deals out of the three years of doing things. I would say playing ‘The Tonight Show’ was probably the biggest one.” But she admits to being uneasy on TV stages. “I don’t normally get nervous,” she said. “But I’m nervous for TV performances. It’s live and, well, a normal show is live, too. But you’re only playing one song. It’s not a
normal concert setting. “The crowd isn’t right in your face. It’s completely different. They’re having to act cordial because they’re on TV. It’s a really interesting environment.” That hearkens back to her comments about insecurity. “Over the three years, I did need to have my own identity and try not to find it in anybody else’s opinion of you.” Adam Lambert and Echosmith perform at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, at the Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd St., Phoenix. Tickets are $40 to $70. For more information, call (602) 267-1600 or www.celebritytheatre.com.
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Veteran EMT Support Act a benefit to all former troops Military veterans receive some of the best medical training and experience available when serving our country. Their sacrifices, commitment to duty, and ability to get the job done in austere environments make them exceptionally well suited for working as EMTs and paramedics in our communities upon their honorable separation from the U.S. armed services. Experienced military medics are often required to duplicate their medical training at the most basic level to receive certification to be hired for a civilian EMS job. The Veteran Emergency Medical Technicians Support Act of 2015 (S. 453/H.R. 1818) will help veterans return to work upon their completion of military duty and reduce unemployment among veterans. In 2012, 10,000 military medics separated and entered the civilian workforce. This important legislation makes it easier and faster for veterans who served as military medics to earn certification as civilian emergency medical technicians, and serves to fill an essential public function in communities across our nation. According to a recent Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook, there will be 55,000 new civilian EMT and paramedic jobs created between 2012 and 2022. The projected job growth rate is 23 percent, much faster than the average for all occupations. S. 453/H.R. 1818 addresses these issues by: • Amending the Public Health Service Act to direct the Department of Health and Human Services to establish a demonstration program for states with a shortage of emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to streamline state requirements and procedures to assist veterans who completed military EMT training to meet state EMT certification, licensure, and other requirements; • Determining the extent to which the requirements for the education, training, and skill level of emergency medical technicians in the State are equivalent to requirements for the education, training, and skill level of military emergency medical technicians; • Identifying methods, such as waivers, for military emergency medical technicians to forego or meet any such equivalent State requirements; • Giving priority to States who demonstrate a shortage of emergency medical technicians. Chris Calzada Gilbert
Opinion
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Discrimination of the elderly extends to pets BY DENNY BARNEY
November was Adopt a Senior Pet Month here in Maricopa County. It may not be a surprise that a little age bias occurs in the animal world, too. Senior pets are DENNY BARNEY. often the hardest to Submitted photo adopt. It often happens that a great dog sporting a few grey or white hairs on its muzzle is often passed over for a playful puppy. The lounging cat doesn’t hold the same attraction as the energetic kittens climbing all over each other. We are often drawn to the younger, feistier animals and ignore the mature and equally loving. That’s a shame. It’s a loss for the animals—but also for many whose lives would be enhanced by a loving, loyal companion. These older pets need help finding homes to live out their golden years. Many of them find themselves at one of our shelters through no fault of their own. In some cases, the owner has relocated and is unable to keep them, or regrettably, they find themselves alone when their owner has passed away or developed a medical
condition. These animals get transitioned over to one of our adoption facilities where they patiently wait for someone to love. Too often, they never get that chance. Allow me to share some of the great qualities and benefits, particularly for empty nesters, of adopting a senior pet from one of our shelters. Older pets are often less high maintenance. They’ve been through the rambunctious years. Most are housebroken and respond to simple commands. And yet they’re still teachable. The more mature dog will walk alongside you at a steady pace, not race ahead of you dragging you along uncomfortably as you strain to keep them leashed. Older pets are already fully grown. You see what you get and there are usually few surprises. Many resources and benefits are available to those adopting senior pets here in Maricopa County. Dogs older than 5 are only $20 to adopt. For cats over a year old the adoption fees are waived. Veterans also have the benefit of waived adoption fees through the “Pets and Vets” program. Our Maricopa County Animal Care & Control volunteers and staff can help you find the perfect pet and answer any questions you may have when looking for your new
Sound Off: WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! SOUND OFF was transcribed from our Sound Off line during the past month. Sound Off is a monthly editorial feature of Gilbert Sun News. We encourage you to participate. As long as it's not profane or libelous we will print it in our next issue. Calls are limited to one minute. Please leave your name only if you'd like it printed. Come on, get it off your chest!
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There’s nothing wrong legally or morally with the civil union for the sake of medical or legal assistance for two people. It’s the marriage part with or without the part of mutual sex that stinks up the issue. What’s wrong with people today? They all want to be on the TV news. What TV channel candidate will you eventually vote for, instead of the right man who need to be in charge? It seems that each station has its own candidate of choice. One nice thing the weather did for the local TV news is seeing the ladies in tops with sleeves and dresses down to their knees. They look so much nicer, don’t they?
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If Obama gets his way again and brings 250,000 refugees from Syria to the United States, you can bet 50,000 will be terrorists. If the Congress doesn’t stop them, all commercial travel will stop, subways, trains and buses will stop. Stay away from major cities, major sporting events. Travel in your car only. All churches will be targeted. That’s what it’s all coming to unless we get rid of this president. When you see pictures of soldiers with helmets on, why are the backs of their necks so unprotected? Wake up you guys! Protect the guys better than the way they are now. I was very, very happy to see that the bond overrides in Gilbert and Higley won.
furry friend. If you are looking for ways to get more involved, our newly implemented Adoption Ambassador Program allows volunteer ambassadors to foster difficult to place dogs, including seniors, until they can be found permanent homes. Ambassadors are in charge of marketing and handling adoption paperwork. In most cases, foster dogs will be in an ambassador’s care for an average of three to four weeks. This program simultaneously provides great opportunities for senior dogs as well as creates more space in our shelters for other animals. This holiday season please consider adopting a senior pet and adding a companion to your life. Denny Barney is a Gilbert resident and a member of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. Have you heard the 1980s are considered the old times? Are you laughing or just aghast? We remember when the ’60s were as bad as the Civil War. Guns do not kill, people kill. Here is the proof: 1.5 million babies are murdered in the USA every year. They are all killed by abortionists—and none of them use a gun. Thank you. The UN again condemned the U.S. embargo on Cuba. Why don’t they condemn Cuba’s harboring of cop killers and terrorists? We need to pull out of the UN. Notice to the poor French: Turn the Eiffel Tower back on or ISIS will think they’ve won. Electing Hillary Clinton as president would be like electing Obama for a third term. Hey, are you watching how America makes its bombs? Why don’t reporters say where they’re made? What is wrong with you nosy, nosy people? Why are you so stupid? It’s unbelievable how nosy reporters are with things they don’t need to know. What is wrong with you idiots? You’re disgusting.
December 2015
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*2015 Kelley Blue Book Brand Image Awards are based on the Brand Watch™ study from Kelley Blue Book Market Intelligence. Award calculated among non-luxury shoppers. 2015 model-year vehicle’s projected cost to own for the initial ve-year ownership period is based on the average Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to Own data which considers depreciation and costs such as fuel and insurance. Vehicle’s projected resale value is speci c to the 2015 model year. Subaru will donate $250 for every new Subaru vehicle sold or leased from November 19, 2015, through January 2, 2016, to four national charities designated by the purchaser pu or lessee, up to $15,000,000 in total. Pre-approved Hometown Charities may be selected for donation depending on retailer participation. Certain participating retailers will make an additional donation to the Hometown Charities selected. Purchasers/lessees must make their charity designations by January 31, 2016. The four national charities will receive a guaranteed minimum donation of $250,000 each. See your local Subaru retailer for details or visit Subaru.com/share. All donations made by Subaru of America, Inc.
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