Gilbert Sun News: May 2015; Full Issue by Times Media Group

May 2015

Relentlessly local coverage of Gilbert and our neighboring communities

Go Speed Racer

Carter Holmes joined his siblings at the annual Power Wheels Derby event, driving a replica Mario kart just like in the popular video games.

Teacher remembered as witty, honest

Highland Park Elementary School earns A+ designation

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

BY ALISON STANTON

When Kayden Jarnagan remembers her teacher Aimee Hunter, she recalls a vibrant, caring woman who would do anything to get her students’ attention. “We were learning about the solar system and she showed us videos and then she’d dance along with it,” Kayden said while laughing. “She was really funny. She was super sweet and she always had a smile on her face. She would always teach us in fun ways. She would show us cool videos and interact with us.” Kayden spoke at the April funeral of Hunter, 41, a Gilbert resident who died following a motorcycle crash near Haven Crest and Power Ranch Parkway. She was riding along with her boyfriend of 18 months, Mark Samsal, who died on the see TEACHER REMEMBERED page 6

Ryan Elementary School student Kayden Jarnagan, left, remembers her teacher Aimee Hunter, right, as funny and engaging. Photo courtesy of the Jarnagan family

University Phoenix. Highland Park Elementary School Highland Park Elementary School recently earned the A+ Principal Jason Martin School of Excellence award said the facility has been for the 2014/15 school year. extraordinary since it Bobbie O’Boyle, executive opened nine years ago. director of the Arizona “Much of the staff has Educational Foundation, said been here the whole that the school was among time, and we have really 26 Arizona public schools worked hard to provide to earn this honor. A second a rigorous but rewarding round of winning schools education for our will be announced this students,” he said. spring. “I really feel like we Schools receive $500 and Bobbie O’Boyle, executive make each of our 900 a banner designating them as director of Arizona Educational students feel special, an A+ School of Excellence Foundation, said a record and it was great to winner, and staff and faculty number of schools throughout reflect on this during the at the award-winning schools Arizona applied for the A+ application process.” School of Excellence award. are eligible for partial O’Boyle said they Submitted photo scholarships from Argosy see A+ page 4

1 Community 16 Neighbors 24 Neighborhood Map 26 Business

31 Youth 37 Spirituality 39 Arts 42 Opinion

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Gilbert, AZ - Divorce is rarely easy and often means a lot of difficult decisions. One of the most important decisions is what to do about the house. In the midst of the heavy emotional and financial turmoil, what you need most is some non-emotional, straightforward, specific information and answers. Once you know how a divorce affects your home, your mortgage and taxes, critical decisions are easier. Neutral, third party information can help you make logical, rather than emotional, decisions. Probaby the first decision is whether you want to continue living in the house. Will the familiar surroundings bring you comfort and emotional security or unpleasant memories? Do you want to minimize change by staying where you are, or sell your home and move to a new place that offers a new start? Only you can answer those questions, but there

will almost certainly be some financial repercussions to your decision process. What can you afford? Can you manage the old house on your new budget? Is refinancing possible? Or is it better to sell and buy? How much house can you buy on your new budget? To help you know what questions you should ask and how to arrive at the right answer for your specific situation, a FREE special report has been prepared by industry experts entitled “Divorce: What You Need to Know About Your House, Your Mortgage and Taxes.” 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 8009. You can call anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your special report NOW to find out how to make this part of your current situation less stressful.

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How to Sell Your Home Without an Agent and Save the Commission Gilbert, AZ - If you’ve tried to sell your home yourself, you know that the minute you put the “For Sale by Owner” sign up, the phone will start to ring off the hook. Unfortunately, most calls aren’t from prospective buyers, but rather from every real estate agent in town who will start to hound you for your listing. Like other “For Sale by Owners,” you’ll be subjected to a hundred sales pitches from agents who will tell you how great they are and how you can’t possibly sell your home by yourself. After all, without the proper information, selling a home isn’t easy. Perhaps you’ve had your home on the market for several months with no offers from qualified buyers. This can be a very frustrating time, and many homeowners have given up their dreams of selling their homes themselves. But don’t give up until you’ve read a new report entitled “Sell Your Own Home,” which has been prepared especially for homesellers like you. You’ll find that selling your home by yourself is entirely possible once you understand the process. Inside this report, you’ll find 10 inside tips to selling your home by yourself which willl help you sell for the best price in the shortest amount of time. You’ll find out what real estate agents don’t want you to know. To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report, call toll-free 1-800303-2049 and enter 8017. You can call anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free special report NOW to learn how you really can sell your home yourself.

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4 May 2015

Community

Layoffs are not part of district’s budget cut plans BY ALISON STANTON

About a year ago, Gilbert Public Schools officials learned they would have to make some significant budget cuts, said Jeff Gadd, chief financial officer for the district. Because of voters’ decision not to renew an override, Gadd said funding will decline and Gilbert Public Schools will need to cut $10.8 million from its budget. By focusing on other types of reductions like the elimination of some positions, and relying on natural attrition and retirement among staff, Gadd said the district is not expecting to lay off any of its staff. “We’ve actually identified $11.7 million worth of reductions, and right now no existing staff members will lose their jobs. However, they may be re-classified into a different position, which may be lower paying,” Gadd said. Jill Humpherys, a governing board clerk for Gilbert Public Schools, said the district will also initiate a hiring freeze, which will result in larger class sizes.

See BUDGET CUT page 13

www.GilbertSunNews.com

A+ from page 1

received a record number of applications this year from schools throughout the state. While they normally get around 35, this year 73 applications were submitted for the award, which gives recognition to outstanding public schools. “My personal opinion is that the public is hungry for good news about schools,” O’Boyle said. “For every negative story, there are thousands of positive ones, and that is what we want to focus on.” Schools that are being considered for the A+ School of Excellence award go through a rigorous selection process. After the faculty, staff, students, administrators and community members collaborate on the lengthy written application that includes demographic information, a description of current programs and practices, proof of parent and community participation and a profile of the school’s principal and his or her commitment to excellence and high achievement, the judges carefully review each application and decide which schools will be selected for a site visit. “Schools actively seek this award; we do not go out and wave a wand and say ‘You’re A+. You’re A+,” O’Boyle said. The site visits are also extremely thorough, according to O’Boyle, involving a team of judges spending a day and a half at each school. “While the judges are there, they go

n ra d e t e s Ve wn es O sin Bu

Highland Park Elementary School principal Jason Martin said his school does an exemplary job making each student feel special. Submitted photo

through the application with a fine tooth comb, verifying what is on it,” she said. “For example, if the application says the teachers post their learning objectives on the board so that all students will know what they are doing, they will check to see if this is the case.”

The judges also spend time speaking with students to see what they are learning, as well as staff members. “They are looking for that sense of going above and beyond and that ‘wow’ factor, and for schools that are doing more than what you would expect in Arizona,” O’Boyle said. “Through the observations and interviews, we are determining what it is about the culture at the school that sets it apart, makes it a place where kids want to be, and what makes it not just good, but really good.” According to their notes, O’Boyle mentioned judges found Highland Park Elementary to be a “fun visual school” with “inspiring murals and decorations.” “There are also plenty of extra activities that are available to the students, and the judges were extremely impressed with the way the teachers and staff went out of their way to make sure everyone has a sense of belonging at the school,” O’Boyle added. Learning that the school had earned an A+ designation was a momentous occasion for everyone involved. “I think it gave us a sense of confirming what we have been doing for the past nine years, and it was very nice to get that recognition from the AEF and the judges who came out and visited,” Martin said.

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6 May 2015

Community

TEACHER REMEMBERED from page 1

scene, according to Gilbert Police Lt. Hugh White. Hunter taught Kayden’s fifth-grade class at Ryan Elementary School in Chandler. She only started teaching at the Chandler Unified School District facility in the beginning of the school year. She formerly instructed at Centennial Elementary School in Gilbert. Principal Diane Wells said, in a prepared statement to the Gilbert Sun News, that Hunter knew all of her students well and, because of that, she was able to challenge and engage each one in learning. Wells said Hunter rapidly adapted to her new school. “Aimee Hunter was new to our Ryan Elementary teaching staff this year, but her outgoing personality enabled her to quickly make many friends among her colleagues,” Wells said. “She wanted to do anything to help others; she was just a lovely person. Aimee was born to teach and she loved her job. Her students adored her and got a kick out of her wit and her fondness for very high heels and rock ‘n’ roll music. Aimee’s colleagues, student and their parents loved and appreciated her—she will truly be missed.” Echoing that sentiment was Emily Ewing, who knew Hunter for nearly seven years after meeting her through the Centennial PTO. She, too, spoke at Hunter’s service. “She was honest and she always told you

the way it was. She never held back. She would always say, ‘I have to be honest and I have to do the right thing.’ That was the way she led her life,” said Ewing. Friends, family and students knew when Hunter was happy because she would have a “sparkle in her eye and her face lit up.” Ewing started a GoFundMe page where the public can donate money for the college funds of Hunter’s two sons and daughter. Donations may be made here: www.gofundme.com/rrc4gn4. “Per Aimee’s parents’ request, all the money will go straight to college funds for the three kids,” she said. “Aimee really valued education. It was her hope for all kids to go to college. As a parent, she wanted to make sure that happened.” Kayden’s mom, Stephanie Jarnagan, said she and fellow parents of Hunter’s students are working with the school and the Chandler Unified School District to organize a living legacy tree-planting ceremony in her honor. California Pools & Landscape and Signarama, both of which are based in Chandler, have agreed to donate a tree and signage. Ewing said the community has rallied behind Hunter’s family. Meals have been ordered for delivery through May 31. Hunter had recently joined Sun Valley Community Church, which has been supportive as well. “She had never been happier,” Ewing said. “When she died, she was at her happiest.”

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Save water and money—inspect irrigation systems BY ERIC BRAUN, WATER RESOURCES COORDINATOR, TOWN OF GILBERT

As the weather warms, our mindset tends to shift to summer survival mode. You’ve likely increased the frequency of your landscape irrigation events, but before you receive another water bill, take some time to manually turn on your irrigation system and inspect it for leaks (view the handy Smart Home Water Guide, which helps you track down and find household leaks, at www. smarthomewaterguide. org). Drip irrigation can be sneaky. Because it delivers water directly to the root zone of a plant, many of the water delivery pieces are buried underground. It might take longer to bring a drip irrigation leak to the surface. And if your sprinkler system is set to irrigate in the early morning to reduce evaporation, it is quite possible you never see it run. Tips for locating leaks in your landscape: • From your irrigation controller, manually turn on your drip irrigation zones/stations. Let it run for several minutes. Look for standing water or large wet spots of soaked soil. • After an irrigation event, the surface of your soil should be wet. Check the emitters (the little button-like plastic piece that drips water onto the soil near plants) for unusual drip patterns and broken emitters.

• If you find there is an unusually large wet spot in the soil several fee away from the nearest emitter, you may have a leak in the polyethylene tubing (the thicker tubing of your drip irrigation system that is usually buried underground). • From your irrigation controller, manually turn on your sprinkler irrigation zones/ stations, and look at the sprinkler heads while they are running. • It is important to test all of the sprinkler stations to make sure you don’t have a broken sprinkler head. Old Faithful belongs in Yellowstone, not in your backyard. On top of checking for leaks, make sure you are not overwatering your landscape. Even though May, June and July are typically our hottest and driest months, many landscape plants are remarkably adept at surviving our harsh summer climate. In fact, many landscape plants die from overwatering rather than underwatering. Visit www. landscapewateringguide.com to properly program your irrigation controller for your specific landscape needs. Don’t know how your irrigation system works? Gilbert residents can request a water audit by e-mailing Water. Conservation@gilbertaz.gov or calling (480) 503-6098 to set up an appointment with a water conservation specialist to learn how to irrigate your yard so that it looks good, yet doesn’t waste water.

Town’s credit rating upgraded to Aaa

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Moody’s Investors Service has upgraded the community’s general obligation credit rating to Aaa—the highest rating possible, according to an announcement made by the Town of Gilbert. “The upgrade of the G.O. rating to Aaa reflects the town’s exceptionally strong credit characteristics including a demonstrated commitment to building and maintaining reserves to levels that are well above those typically maintained by similarly rated peers,” a Town press release noted Moody’s as saying. When looking at the community as a whole, Moody’s was impressed by Gilbert’s demographics, including its above-average

median household income, well-educated and workforce ready population, as well as its strong and growing business community. “We are very pleased with the upgrade to Aaa,” said Gilbert Town Manager Patrick Banger. “This is a reflection of strong leadership and operational management in Gilbert and the smart decisions we are making financially. It’s also symbolic of the vibrancy of the community and the many recognitions we have recently received.” There are only 179 other cities in the country with a Aaa rating, and only three other cities in Arizona—Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and Chandler, according to the press release.

www.GilbertSunNews.com

May 2015 7

8 May 2015

Community

Gilbert aims to collect 72,600 meals for local families This May, the Town is hosting its annual Gilbert Feeding Families community food drive with the goal of feeding all 72.6 square miles of Gilbert by collecting 72,600 meals. All of the food and money donated will go directly to the United Food Bank and to feeding the Gilbert community. Donation drop-off sites will be located around Gilbert, including the fire stations, recreation centers, Town Hall, Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Small Business Alliance. For a full list, visit www. gilbertaz.gov/feedingfamilies. Special donation sites will also be set up at the following events: • Thursday, May 14: Downtown Concert • Thursday, May 28: Downtown Concert • Saturday, May 30: Gilbert Farmers Market (the MidFirst Coin Van will be onsite collecting change) Online donations are being accepted at www.gilbertaz.gov/feeding families. Every dollar donated provides food for five meals.

Gilbert Feeding Families will be hosting a restaurant night on Wednesday, May 6. Visit one of the participating restaurants and a percentage of the bill will be donated to the food drive. For a full list of participating restaurants, visit www. gilbertaz.gov/feedingfamilies. The final weigh-in event will take place at 7:30 a.m. Monday, June 8, at the Town Hall. Interested businesses or residents should visit www.gilbertaz. gov/feedingfamilies or email gilbertfeedingfamilies@gilbertaz. gov for more information. Follow @ GilbertYourTown on Twitter (www. twitter.com/gilbertyourtown) and Gilbert Town Hall on Facebook (www.facebook. com/gilberttownhall) for additional event information.

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Mercy Gilbert receives pediatric emergency certification Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert Medical Center has received certification by the Arizona Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AzAAP) as a Pediatric Prepared Emergency Care Emergency Department. Although Mercy Gilbert has long provided care for pediatric patients in its emergency department, this accreditation from the AzAAP confirms the high-quality pediatric emergency care the hospital provides and further complements its partnership with Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Last year, Phoenix Children’s opened a 22-bed inpatient pediatric unit at Mercy Gilbert, and since the unit’s establishment, Mercy Gilbert has seen its pediatric volume double in the emergency department. “Obtaining this certification shows our commitment to offering specialized and advanced emergency medical care to the youngest patients in our community,” said Janet Shepard, director of emergency services at Mercy Gilbert and Chandler Regional medical centers.

“In addition to the certification, Mercy Gilbert’s emergency physicians and nurses have received specialized pediatric training to care for children with emergency medical needs.” Hospitals voluntarily apply for the AzAAP certification, which includes matching hospital capabilities and capacity to established guidelines through a selfassessment process and a site visit by a team of peer professionals. “The American Academy of Pediatrics believes in access to optimal emergency care for all children,” said Dr. Delphis Richardson, AzAAP’s president. “To receive the Pediatric Prepared Emergency Care certification, the hospital’s Emergency Department must pass a broad and in-depth review of pediatric care readiness that includes its equipment, staffing policies and procedures and analytics.” For more information about the pediatric services offered at Mercy Gilbert, visit dignityhealth.org/mercygilbert.

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10 May 2015

Finley Farms Carnival

Community

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Finley Farms Elementary School celebrated the end of the school year with a carnival that featured inflatable activities, face painting, photos and games. For information about the PTO, visit www.facebook.com/FinleyfarmsPto. GSN photos by Kimberly

Carrillo

Clayton Brown climbs toward the top of the mobile rock climbing wall.

Carly Orton dodges the wrecking ball.

Kate Bozza and son, CJ, enjoy their cotton candy.

Lindsay Lawson concentrates on the bucket toss while friends watch.

McKinley Knutson, Chloe Tenboer, Carly Orton and Ashton Colorado pause for a photo opportunity.

Jayden Gilbert and Kaden Blanchard are all smiles at the carnival.

The Finley Farms train was immensely popular with younger visitors.

Emma Rembosky gets her face painted to match her T-shirt.

Kyla Robinette got dunked. She had hoped her adversary would miss the target.

May 2015 11

www.GilbertSunNews.com

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12 May 2015

Community

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Father sentenced to life in prison Supreme Court shoots down for death of toddler son fish pedicure appeal BY CARISSA RAMIREZ

After 1,200 days in custody, a 29-yearold Gilbert man was sentenced to life in prison for murdering his 2-year-old son. He is eligible for parole after 35 years. On Wednesday, April 8, in Maricopa County Superior Court, Jonathan Ray Cole, sobbed and asked for the forgiveness of his late son, Alexzander (Alex) Cole, as he spoke to Judge Roland Steinle. “Alex, dad is so sorry for what I did to you,” Cole said. “I loved you from the minute I held you in my arms. I hope you forgive dad for what he’s done.” Cole asked for the forgiveness of his wife, Harjit Cole. “I hope you can forgive me for what I’ve done to our son,” Cole said while crying. Cole pleaded guilty to the first-degree murder of Alex. On Oct. 5, 2011, Cole called 9-1-1 and told Gilbert Police that his son had been found unresponsive in his bed at an Extended Suites Hotel on West Obispo Avenue in Gilbert. Cole stated that Alex had been sleeping and checked on periodically, according to court reports. Cole reported to have been the only one with the boy at the time. His wife was at work. Alex was taken to Banner Desert Medical Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Doctors found hemorrhages around his eyes, neck and upper chest, according to court records. In a voluntary interview with police

after Alex’s death, Cole asked if “a stuffed animal can cause suffocation?” After police inquired about the question, Cole asked to be taken to jail, according to court records. “Jonathan admitted to holding Alex against his chest with his hands crossed against Alex’s chest. Alex’s back was to Jonathan’s chest and Jonathan squeezed Alex until he stopped breathing,” according to court records. After his Miranda rights were read, Cole said that his son struggled to get free five or six times but that he squeezed him even harder until the child stopped breathing, according to court records. “We believe that this plea is in the interest of justice, considering the horrific way that this child died,” said Deputy County Attorney Stephanie Low. “The defendant suffocated his son and described the child as struggling as he died, and waited an extended period before even seeking help for him.” Court records also reveal that Alex was probably dead in the room for an hour and a half before Cole called emergency crews at 5:49 p.m. Cole was said to have had grown up in a dysfunctional family and feels more free now in custody, than at home with his family, said Cole’s attorney, Quinn Jolly. “While in custody Jon has been a model inmate,” Jolly said. “Even when put in situations where most people would act out, Jon would keep his cool.”

Feliz Cinco de Mayo

BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

When LaVie Nails & Spa owner Cindy Vong took a trip to Asia in 2008, she witnessed something innovative that she wanted to incorporate in her own nail spa in Gilbert. Vong saw a fish pedicure during which tiny carp nibble dead skin cells from a client’s foot. After introducing the unique service at LaVie, a legal firestorm was The U.S. Supreme Court rejected Cindy Vong’s appeal ignited and the Arizona Board to throw out the ruling that banned her spa from of Cosmetology shut down the performing fish pedicures. Submitted photo controversial practice. Recently, the Vong noted that the Arizona State U.S. Supreme Court rejected the Board of Cosmetology had violated her spa’s appeal to have it overturned. constitutional due process and equal Vong declined an interview request, protection rights when it ordered her but officials with the Goldwater Institute to stop doing the fish pedicures. In May have been involved with her case since 2014, the Arizona State Court of Appeals 2009, when they read about the issue ruled that the Arizona State Board of in a newspaper. Starlee Coleman, senior Cosmetology did not violate Vong’s policy adviser at the Goldwater Institute constitutional rights when it decided she in Phoenix, said Vong started offering the could no longer provide fish pedicures. fish pedicures in 2008. In May 2015, the Supreme Court would “It was really popular and it caught the not hear an appeal challenging the attention of the board of cosmetology,” lower court’s decision. Vong is not left Coleman said. “She was the first person in with many options, but the Goldwater Arizona to do this.” Institute is not finished. The Arizona Board of Cosmetology The Goldwater Institute’s position soon sent a letter to Vong demanding that for Vong was one that recognizes she stop the service. that government has the authority to “We contacted Cindy and said, ‘The regulate businesses and it supports that government can’t just shut a business wholeheartedly. down without a reason’ and we started “But the government isn’t allowed to working with her to find out exactly what shut an industry or business down when had happened,” Coleman said. there are other options for regulating,” “We tried to work with the board of Coleman said. cosmetology on her behalf to figure out Previously, Vong was already a way they could regulate the practice implementing the exact same health and so that their concerns about public safety requirements at LaVie that are in health and safety were addressed and place for regular pedicures. At the crux met without shutting down the business of the board of cosmetology’s original entirely.” issue was that the fish were being used Unfortunately, the parties could not as a pedicure instrument and couldn’t be come to a resolution and Vong sued. properly cleaned or sanitized in between Clint Bolick, the Goldwater Institute’s clients. Therefore, it ordered Vong to stop vice president of litigation, was the lead the service, for which she had invested attorney. thousands of dollars. The team at the Goldwater Institute “Obviously, we were extremely tried to help Vong’s case with compelling disappointed that the Supreme Court facts. didn’t take the case, but it was a long “We have done a number of things shot,” said Coleman. including surveying all of the health “They take fewer than 1 percent of all and safety research that has been done of the cases that are brought to them.” all across the world on fish pedicures,” However, Bolick and his team are still Coleman said. “There has never been, stomping for Vong. anywhere in the world, a public health or “Next legislative session we’re going to safety complaint or problem coming from try and work with lawmakers to write a fish pedicures.” regulation that would make this practice Per Coleman, fish pedicures are legal legal and address whatever safety in a dozen states and in many countries concerns we can address,” Coleman said. across the world. “The legislature has the authority “The Center for Disease Control has said that there are no inherent safety risks to write regulations that boards and or problems with this process,” she added. commission have to comply with.”

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Orbital ATK’s satellite contract put on hold BY KEN ABRAMCZYK

May 2015 13

Community “We hire an average of 200 to 300 new staff members a year,” she said. Whenever possible, staff members whose positions have been eliminated will be asked to fill another role, she added. “Many of our elementary school teachers are flexible and can be moved into different grades, but as teachers become more specialized it can be more difficult to reassign them. But many of our teachers have backgrounds in education that are very versatile.” Humpherys said parents are understandably upset about the budget cuts. “This has been very challenging and we definitely want to see Gilbert maintain its quality of education,” she said.

“We’ve been very appreciative of our superintendent, Dr. (Christina) Kishimoto and her support to help keep our staff intact.” Gadd said the subject of a new override will be back on the school board’s agenda in May, and he expects that they will make a recommendation to support it. Humpherys said she definitely supports the override. “For the local voters to support the quality of education is crucial. While the funds were once used to cover the extras, this is not the case anymore. Now they are used to fund the basics.”

Despite the need to trim $10.8 from Gilbert Public Schools’ budget, Jeff Gadd, chief financial officer, said the district has no plans to lay off any teachers. Submitted photo

One way the district will make needed cuts, is by initiating a hiring freeze, said Jill Humpherys, a governing board clerk for Gilbert Public Schools. Submitted photo

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Officials at Orbital ATK, a company specializing in aerospace and defense technologies, were expecting to build weather satellites at its Gilbert manufacturing facility after signing a contract in March worth potentially up to $470 million. That process has been delayed, however, after NASA put the Joint Polar Satellite Systems (JPSS) program on hold due to a bid protest by the General Accounting Office. Orbital ATK spokeswoman Vicki Cox said A contract to build satellites for NASA was put on hold due the matter may take about to a bid protest. Submitted photo three months to resolve. term climate trends by extending the Under the contract, the more than 30-year satellite data record. Orbital ATK company would design, NOAA is responsible for managing the produce and integrate up to three Joint JPSS program, while NASA is responsible Polar Satellite Systems spacecraft to be for development and building the JPSS operated by the National Oceanic and instruments, spacecraft, launch services Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and major components of the ground providing weather forecasting data and segment. advance environmental and oceanic The satellites would make nearly 14 science. The JPSS is a collaboration polar orbits a day approximately 520 between NASA and the NOAA, which miles above the Earth’s surface. The oversees the National Weather Service. Earth’s rotation allows the satellite to see The contract included a $235 million a different view each orbit. Each satellite order for the first satellite, known as provides two complete views of weather JPSS-2, and options for two additional around the world each day. satellites, JPSS-3 and JPSS-4, valued at Prior to news of the program’s $217 million. placement on hold, Gilbert Mayor John The JPSS-2 satellite allows for Lewis said town officials were “thrilled” operational continuity of space-based that Orbital ATK would be building the weather observations. Orbital ATK would next generation of weather satellites design and fabricate the JPSS spacecraft, in Gilbert. The community is “open for integrate government-furnished business, growth, development and instruments, conduct satellite-level innovation,” Lewis said. testing and support in-orbit check-out “Manufacturing and distribution and mission operations. companies thrive in the greater Phoenix The satellite would extend the 40-year area because it’s exceedingly accessible partnership of NASA and the NOAA into and offers an affordable operating the 2020 and 2030 decades, according to environment,” Lewis said. “Gilbert is Orbital ATK officials. open to manufacturing across a variety The JPSS represents “significant of industries and Orbital ATK is just one technological and scientific advances example of successful manufacturing in in environmental monitoring and helps our community. We are proud to have the advance weather, climate, environmental leading satellite builder creating groundand oceanographic forecasting and breaking products in Gilbert.” monitoring,” according to the NOAA’s Orbital ATK President and Chief website. Executive Officer David Thompson said The satellites will deliver key observations, including forecasting severe in March after the contract was approved that Orbital ATK was “honored” to be weather like hurricanes, tornadoes and selected by NASA. blizzards days in advance, and assessing “The critical data provided by these environmental hazards such as droughts, satellites will allow the NOAA to forest fires, poor air quality and harmful continue its 50-plus year mission to coastal waters “to secure a more protect lives and property from severe weather-ready nation.” weather events and enhance economic JPSS enables scientists and forecasters prosperity across a wide range of to monitor and predict weather patterns industries,” Thompson said. with greater accuracy and to study long-

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Community

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Famous Dave’s SanTan Village to celebrate five-year anniversary In celebration of its upcoming five-year anniversary at SanTan Village, Famous Dave’s Bar-B-Que is inviting the public to its party from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 2. Diners can enjoy St. Louis-style ribs at a traditional “Ribfest” and a festive, and prize-filled bean bag toss contest. This event will take place in front of Famous Dave’s in the parking lot, located at 2206 E. Williams Field Rd., Gilbert. Famous Dave’s staff will be feeding everyone in attendance for a donation to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley, Gilbert Branch. Several Famous Dave’s prizes will be awarded for playing the bean bag toss, as well as a chance to win a Weber Performer Premium Charcoal Grill, valued at nearly $350. “We’ve been so fortunate to be a part of this community for the past five years,” said John Erlandson, Valley franchise owner. “We’re thrilled to be celebrating Famous Dave’s five-year anniversary at SanTan Village by partnering up with the Boys & Girls Club of the East Valley to raise funds for their Gilbert Branch with an exciting afternoon of great food and

great fun. We invite everyone to join us for all the fun-filled activities, all for a great cause.” The cost to play the bean bag toss is free, unless patrons opt to play for the grand prize grill. For $2, they get a chance to throw three beanbags and if they make at least one, they will be entered in the drawing. Food items for purchase include St. Louis-style ribs, Georgia chopped pork sliders, sides, hot dogs for the kids and beverages. Price ranges from $1 to $3 for the food, with all proceeds going to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley, Gilbert Branch. For nearly 50 years, The Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley have made it their No. 1 priority to fill the opportunity gap and provide kids who come to us with a chance to build their talents, learn the value of contributing to others, and realize their dreams. The Gilbert

Branch offers an afterschool program, teen leadership, youth sports leagues, homework and tutoring assistance. The club is located in the Gilbert Heritage District in the heart of downtown Gilbert. The branch opened in 1991 and serves a diverse group of children and teens from throughout the East Valley, including Gilbert. Locally, Famous Dave’s has been recognized multiple times in the media as the best barbecue restaurant in Phoenix. For information on Famous Dave’s menu and locations visit: www.famousdavesbbq. com.

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May 2015 15

Community

Banner hosts third Health Fair and Bottled Water Drive

Janet Thebarge shows off her patriotic quilt. GSN Photo by Tim Sealy

Quilt maker turns her passion into thriving business BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

When Janet Thebarge was visiting Glacier National Park in Montana several years ago, she came across a quilt store. She enthusiastically had sewn for years, but she didn’t quilt. When she saw a kit in the store, however, she knew she had to assemble it for her friend who was diagnosed with lung cancer. “It was so beautiful,” said Thebarge, a Gilbert resident who works out of her home. “It had all these flowers. It was so feminine. So I made it for her. It meant so much to her.” Her friend brought it with her to chemotherapy sessions, and Janet Thebarge of Gilbert turned her hobby into a when she died, her family asked if business, Keepsake Quilts and Fabric Gifts. they could keep it. Thebarge then GSN Photo by Tim Sealy had an epiphany. motivating. But I want to be very careful “I thought that maybe this is and respectful. I’m not just selling something I could do as a business,” said my business and going out there and Thebarge, who works as the sales and knocking on doors. That is, in itself, a marketing manager for Serrano’s. little bit challenging when you’re trying to Keepsake Quilts and Fabric Gifts was promote a new business.” born. Thebarge said she figures she could Instead, she relies on word-ofcontinue with this after she retires. mouth referrals. Her creations “I’m not good at doing nothing,” she range in price from $200 to $1,200. said. “I’m going to be sewing no matter For more information, visit www. what. I thought I could have a business keepsakequiltsandfabricgifts.com. that would offer people comfort.” One thing she yearns to do is make a Thebarge specializes in memory quilts. quilt that honors a soldier. She designed a quilt out of shirts for “I want to do a quilt so badly to honor the family of a man who died from a someone in the military,” she said. “I’m massive heart attack. She’s making one in going to give 15 percent of the proceeds celebration of a man’s 90th birthday. His to Boots for Troops. To honor somebody family sees it as a legacy quilt. who’s been in the military, that’s a terrific “I think every quilt I make has a thing.” story attached,” she said. “It’s really

Banner Gateway Medical Center and Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center are hosting a Health Fair and Bottled Water Drive from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 2, in the north parking lot of the campus, located at 1900 N. Higley Rd., Gilbert. The bottled water drive benefits the Salvation Army’s Heat and Hydration Program. The goal is to collect more than 2,000 cases. The program was launched in 2006 following a prolonged heat wave in the summer of 2005 that resulted in the deaths of 20 people in one night in the Valley. During the summer months, the Salvation Army holds 11 Hydration Stations throughout the Valley, each manned with volunteers, to distribute water and offer respite and safety information to those in need.

Last summer the Salvation Army was able to provide water to thousands of individuals. It also supplied more than 80,000 bottles of water to partner agencies. Its purpose for the Extreme Heat Project is to hydrate, educate and provide referral assistance to people in or potentially in distress. In addition to the bottled water drive, health care and water safety information will be provided and the Gilbert Fire Department and Air Evac Helicopter will be on site.

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May 2015

April Gould was one of 130 people chosen to run the course of “American Ninja Warrior.” There were 50,000 applications. GSN photos by Sam Nalven

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Gould trains in preparation for the NBC competition TV show.

Gilbert mom tries out for ‘American Ninja Warrior’ BY BREANNE DEMORE

When watching incredible feats of strength and agility, such as the NBC show “American Ninja Warrior,” most people sit back and marvel while muttering to themselves, “Never in a million years...” However, there are a few people out there who watch others scale walls and dangle from their fingertips and say, “Why not?!” April Gould is one of those people. The 37-year-old Gilbert mother of three is a dental hygienist by trade, but her resume also includes professional water skier, goat farmer and trapeze artist. It’s safe to say that she has a full plate—or maybe multiple plates, all spinning on tall sticks. “I like to do a lot of fun things,” Gould said with a laugh. “I like to juggle. I like to juggle my family and I try to have fun

and keep my life interesting so that I stay young. That’s my ultimate goal, I think— just try to stay young.” So how did this East Valley native, who already has a job, three kids and 47 goats to keep her busy, decide to try out for NBC’s “American Ninja Warrior,” a competition TV show in which athletes attempt to complete a series of very intense obstacle courses? “My family loves to watch ‘American Ninja Warrior’ and every time we watch, my kids would say, ‘Mom—you should do that!’ So I was like, ‘Why not?!’” Gould sent in a video and an application to the show and a little while later, she was contacted and told that of the 50,000 applicants, she was one of the 130 chosen to run the course. Although Gould’s daily activities and challenges keep her in shape, she still needed to train and didn’t have much

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time to do it. “When I got the call that they wanted me to actually run the course, I went to my local gym and I was like, “I’m going to be on ‘American Ninja Warrior!’” and they were like, ‘That’s great! When?’ And I was like, ‘I have two and a half weeks!’ So they took me under their wing and I worked out every day, twice a day for two and a half weeks and they completely transformed me. They took me from being in-shape to strong.” Gould’s family was completely supportive and behind her. Her husband, Russell, helped out when he could and their three kids, Autumn, Summer and Lincoln, understood what their mom was April Gould. doing and that there was an end in sight. Together they made it work. Of the 130 people chosen to run the “American Ninja Warrior” course, only 12, including Gould, were women—a fact that really resonated with Gould. However, when the words “role model” were said and when she was asked about what her two daughters think of their warrior mother, Gould’s usually infectiously perky attitude quiets.

“Wow! Those are big shoes to fill!” She pauses and thinks through the next words. “For my girls, I just want to prove to them that they can do anything that they put their mind to no matter how big the obstacle, no matter how out there it may seem.” But Gould doesn’t let it get to her head, “People looking at me as a role model— that’s unexpected. I’m honored by that. [But] I’m not going into this to be like ‘I want to be a role model!’ I’m just trying to be the person that I am.” While she can’t reveal how she did on the “American Ninja Warrior,” viewers can find out at 8 p.m. Monday, May 25, on NBC. There is one thing that Gould is absolutely positive about. “I definitely am going to want to do it again next year. (It’s) so addictive. You have no idea. The people there are incredible. All the other ninjas—meeting everybody and seeing these people that I had been admiring their skills on TV and meeting them in person—they’re even greater in person. So just to be part of the ‘Ninja’ family is so amazing.”

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Neighbors

May 2015

Doctor returns from medical mission in Tanzania loads and walking a lot.” Dr. David Warkentin saw it all when he Hamilton said he doesn’t often have traveled to Mwanza, a port city in Tanzania, a chiropractor on his team, so having on behalf of Lighthouse Medical Missions. Warkentin with the group was a rare treat. Whether it was childbirth or back pain, the “He was very adaptable and a wonderful 28 doctors and guy to hang with,” support staff Hamilton said. “He who traveled fit in, worked within to the African the scope of what he nation lent a does and he was very hand. effective at addressing “I saw a lot of the issues that everything from came out.” A to Z,” said Warkentin was Warkentin, a tipped about the work Gilbert resident of Lighthouse Medical who is CEO and Missions by a family owner of Verve member. Wellness Center. “My father-in-law Warkentin Dr. Bill Wright from performed Houston, Missouri, has general medical been involved with and chiropractic them for several years procedures in and has done several a temporary missions with them,” clinic that was Warkentin explained. set up on what The Santa Monica, Dr. David Warkentin and a 100-year-old patient at California-based was essentially a covered patio. the temporary clinic set up by Lighthouse Medical organization is Missions in Mwanza, Tanzania. Photo by Susie He admitted it relatively small, said Scribner was a struggle. Hamilton. Doctors “Everybody is affiliated with a new patient and everybody speaks Swahili Lighthouse Medical Missions have primarily so there was an interpreter,” he said. made trips to western Africa since 1998. “Some spoke French so that was easy for “This was our first trip ever to Tanzania,” me because I speak French. My scribe, Felipe Hamilton said. “We had about 1,000 to 1,200 Rodriguez, would take all my notes.” people show up at the clinic.” Clinics in Mwanza are gated and Warkentin plans to return to Africa on protected by armed guards. No one leaves future medical missions. without paying. “They are the kindest, most polite “Tanzania is in a welfare state, obviously,” people,” Warkentin said. “They’re always Warkentin said. “So if you don’t have money smiling and they were very appreciative we for medication, you die. If you give birth in were there with a clinic.” a hospital and your family doesn’t bring you Those interested in future African medical food, you starve. If you have an appendicitis missions should call Dr. Robert Hamilton of and can’t afford a surgeon, you die.” Lighthouse Medical Missions at (310) 264He witnessed disturbing conditions, 2100. Visit www.lighthousemedicalmissions. including a maternity ward with 10 beds and com for additional information. 16 patients. On average, the hospital delivers 1,100 babies per month. “To put that in perspective, St. John’s Hospital and UCLA Medical in Santa Monica combined deliver 300 babies a month,” Warkentin explained. Pediatrician Dr. Robert Hamilton, coordinator for Lighthouse Medical Missions, worked alongside Warkentin during the trip. “He was wonderful,” Hamilton said of Warkentin. “He’s a hard-working guy and he’s very good. He taught me a couple things. It Dr. David Warkentin adjusted the hips of turns out that chiropractors are very helpful a woman who could not walk well. After in Africa because everybody has back pain, her treatment, she walked out of the clinic neck pain and hip pain from carrying heavy without a limp. Photo by Susie Scribner BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

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Neighbors

May 2015

Life with hearing loss poses variety of challenges student before, and consequently reacted For Daisy Jasmine of Gilbert, having badly to my need for accommodations,” hearing loss means overcoming a variety of she said. challenges every day. Some professors refused to “It can be nearly impossible provide transcripts for their for me to communicate in audio-only lectures, because loud public environments, they insisted it would ruin and I often resort to talking in the effectiveness of their text using the Notes app on presentations. my phone instead,” Jasmine “Other classes are simply said. arranged in a way that Jasmine has a sensorineural there’s no accommodations hearing loss, caused by that could realistically be childhood illness, that ranges provided, such as in choir, from mild to moderate in the so I resort to sitting front low frequencies to profound and center and trusting the in the high frequencies. She professor to stay in my line has about 40 percent of her of sight.” hearing. Michele Michaels, hard Daisy Jasmine, who lost While the Disability of hearing specialist with part of her hearing due Resource Center at ASU, the Arizona Commission for to childhood illness, said she has experienced some where Jasmine is a student, the Deaf and the Hard of challenges getting needed has provided her with Hearing, said that Jasmine accommodations at school. support in getting needed is one of around 1.1 million accommodations, she has still Submitted photo people in Arizona who have encountered some issues. some type of hearing loss. “I have often had professors who had Michaels said the commission is never worked with a hard-of-hearing conducting a statewide campaign to BY ALISON STANTON

encourage everyone to get their hearing tested, as part of Better Hearing and Speech Month in May. While some people, like Jasmine, lose part or all of their hearing due to an illness, Michaels said the No. 1 cause of hearing loss is noise. “Our environment is much noisier now than it was in the olden days,” she said. Earbuds, which direct sounds right next to the eardrum and are popular, also can cause damage over time. In many cases, Michaels said, a person who has a hearing loss might not realize there is a problem. A spouse, friend or coworker often will notice that something is amiss. “People who have a hearing loss may complain that other people are mumbling, or that they cannot hear talking from another room, or that they cannot hear their grandkids’ little voices,” she said. These are definite signs that it’s time for a hearing test. Before making an appointment with an audiologist, Michaels said people should go see their primary care physician. “The PCP can look in the person’s ears and might say, ‘Oh, you have wax blocking your ear canal’ or ‘You have an irritated or perforated ear drum.’ Or, the PCP might say everything is OK and there are no problems, so let’s refer you to someone.”

www.GilbertSunNews.com Michaels, who was diagnosed in her early 30s with a bilateral and progressive hearing loss, said that the best way for most people to preserve their hearing is to use ear plugs when they are around noise. “When they are mowing the lawn, using a leaf blower or riding a motorcycle or ATV they should wear ear plugs, and if women dry their hair every morning they should keep the dryer on low and keep it far away from their ears,” she said. Despite her occasional issues at school, Jasmine said ASU has a range of services. This includes note takers who take notes during class for her, and a remote communication access realtime translation transcriber, who listens to the lecture through a microphone on the professor’s collar and transcribes it in realtime for Jasmine on an online message board that she can view on her laptop. “At home, I have a CaptionCall phone that enables me to communicate on the phone when I need to, and keep the closed captions on the television at all times”, Jasmine said. One piece of technology that Jasmine said she does not need is a light-flickering doorbell. “The doorbell is low-pitched enough to be within my hearing range, and even if it wasn’t, my five dogs can certainly hear it and they never hesitate to loudly let me know that there’s someone at the door.”

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A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that one in four Americans with diabetes doesn’t know he or she has the disease. More than 29 million individuals in the United States have diabetes, up from the previous estimate of 26 million in 2010. According to Jeanne Cahill, RD, CDE, manager of the Center for Diabetes Management at Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, there are a number of reasons as to why more individuals are acquiring the chronic condition. “Diabetes prevalence is increasing every year and we’re finding that it’s due to a number of reasons including genetic triggers, poor diet and sedentary lifestyle,” Cahill said. The Center for Diabetes Management at Mercy Gilbert Medical Center offers a variety of education classes and support groups for individuals with Type 1, Type 2, gestational and pre-diabetes. The hospital also offers insulin management and diabetes refresher courses. Classes include:

• Type 1 Diabetes: 9 a.m. Mondays • Type 2 Diabetes: Classes are offered at various times throughout the week • Gestational Diabetes: 2 p.m. Thursdays • Pre-Diabetes: 1 p.m. Mondays • Insulin management: 2 p.m. Mondays and 9 a.m. Fridays • Diabetes refresher course: 9 a.m. Fridays. “Diabetes is a serious disease but it can often be controlled by adopting healthy lifestyle habits,” Cahill said. “The classes we offer at Mercy Gilbert provide participants with the proper education and tools to help them effectively manage their diabetes.” For more information or to register for classes, call (480) 728-3535.

Neighbors

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Library events scheduled throughout May An array of events is scheduled at Maricopa County Library District’s Southeast Regional and Perry Branch libraries throughout May. Select programs are listed below. In observance of Memorial Day, the Perry Branch and Southeast Regional libraries will be closed Monday, May 25. The Perry Branch Library is located at 1965 E. Queen Creek Rd.; the Southeast Regional Library is located at 775 N. Greenfield Rd. For information, call (602) 652-3000 or visit www.mcldaz.org. For Adults No One Needs to Go Through This Journey Alone: The Basics on Alzheimer’s Disease 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, at Southeast Regional Learn about risk factors, research, treatments, support and steps to a proper diagnosis and assessment during the onehour workshop that explores memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer’s. Essential Oils Workshop 1 p.m. Thursday, May 7, at Perry Branch The hands-on workshop for ages 18 and older will teach attendees about essential oils. Note: No children will be allowed in the workshop. Author Visit: Shona Patel 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, May 9, at Southeast Regional Author Shona Patel will talk about her debut novel “Teatime for the Firefly,” which is the first book of her trilogy. “Hands On” Orchid Program 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 20, at Perry Branch The program, which is geared toward ages 18 and older, is a hands-on repotting program of Phalaenopsis seedlings. Note: Participants must bring an empty plastic gallon milk or water jug for a mini greenhouse. Children are not allowed. For All Ages Explore the Night Sky 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday, May 18, at Southeast Regional The East Valley Astronomy Club will present a learning experience about the universe through an educational session and observatory viewing for ages 7 and older. Create an Orchid Mini-Greenhouse 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 20, at Southeast Regional The Orchid Society of Arizona will provide advice and answer questions about orchids. The program will also feature the proper

May 2015

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techniques in repotting orchids and what to do to keep them blooming for years. Note: Materials will be provided for ages 8 and older. Children under 12 will need to have an adult present to assist in assembly. For Children Family Yoga 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Tuesday, May 12, at Southeast Regional Learn simple stretching and breathing exercises for enhancing mindfulness and participate in fun activities that promote focus and concentration during this oneon-one parent and child program. Yoga also increases the connection between parents and children. Note: Program limited to 20 children. Feel free to bring water, a towel and a yoga mat.

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May 2015

Doula program provides support to women during childbirth BY ALISON STANTON

Thanks to MomDoc Charities, women who are giving birth at Mercy Gilbert Medical Center will have access to emotional and physical support from trained doulas. MomDoc Charities launched its MomDoc volunteer doula program earlier this year. So far, about 10 people have started training to become a doula. As Amanda Becerra, a certified nurse midwife with the program, said a doula provides nonclinical support in the hospital during childbirth. In addition to the support, doulas coach the moms-to-be and their partners throughout childbirth. “MomDoc Charities realizes how valuable labor support is and how valuable doulas are to be able to give the mom access to this support,” Becerra said. Statistically, a mom who uses the services of a trained doula may have a shorter labor, and a lower rate of cesarean sections and epidurals. Becerra, who also helps teach and prepare the volunteer doulas during fullday training sessions, said there have been two trainings since February.

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“During the training we go over what labor support is and what it isn’t, and what we are allowed to do and what is out of our scope in terms of non-clinical support,” Becerra said. The volunteers also learn a great deal about birth physiology including the effacement of the cervix during labor and how care differs with an epidural. One of the key ways a doula can help during childbirth, Becerra said, is by getting the husband or partner involved in the process. In many cases, she said, dads-tobe want to be helpful but may not be sure what they should be doing. A trained doula can help with that. “We also go over the different types of birth positions and how to interact with the hospital staff. It’s really a well-rounded course,” Becerra said. The volunteers who have signed up for the doula program so far come from a full spectrum of backgrounds, Becerra said. “Some have had negative birth experiences and so they were inspired to help other moms, and other women have had beautiful birth experiences. And some have never had kids but are drawn to

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childbirth,” she said. Ketera Buckley recently finished the MomDoc volunteer doula training. Buckley said her negative birth experiences inspired her to become a doula. “I had my first child when I was 18 and I had no support, and then I also had an emergency C-section and again I had no support,” Buckley said. She is especially interested in helping teen moms through labor. Buckley said the training program was extremely thorough and definitely helps prepare the volunteers to be doulas. “They talked us through Amanda Becerra, a certified nurse midwife, said one of the anything that can happen best things about the MomDoc volunteer doula program and everyone shared her own is that it allows women to have access to emotional and experiences. We all learned physical support during labor at no cost. Submitted photo hands-on pressure points and program is that it gives the mom the ability we also learned how to support to have a doula regardless of her financial a mom who is having a still birth,” Buckley situation. She and her partner can have said. support and not worry about paying for it,” Once the volunteer doulas are trained, Becerra said. Becerra said they are shadowed during For more information about the two or three births by a doctor or midwife MomDoc volunteer doula program, visit before helping on their own. momdocvolunteerdoulaprogram.org. “One of the beautiful things about the

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Neighbors

Copper Still Grill offers stellar food with an Arizona twist and sandwiches. We noted the Arizona My favorite restaurants to review are influence on the menu with names such as locally owned by passionate people who the scorpion burger, Grand Canyon burger love what they do. Copper Still Moonshine and steak Phoenix. Grill fits this description perfectly. When the food was served, it looked Owners and smelled Chuck delicious. My Smeriglio and husband Lou Stephen Wipf dug right into along with their the grilled wives have cheese burger worked in the ($9.50) and food industry pronounced it for most of fabulous. Grilled their careers. sourdough Moonshine Philly with a side of grilled vegetables and Chuck started bread, American Churrasco chicken tacos with Spanish rice are sure to at age 16 as a and cheddar please. GSN photo by Lou Kerby busboy and cheese and has worked in a huge juicy every capacity burger in the from bartender middle, this is to general a burger even manager and Bobby Flay now owner/ would love. operator. The side of When waffle fries was deciding also very tasty. what to name The massive Moonshine is the central theme. GSN photo by Lou Kerby their new Moonshine establishment, the owners didn’t want to go Philly ($9.75) included sautéed bell peppers, with just the worn-out neighborhood bar mushroom, onions, provolone cheese and and grill label. Instead, they made it a fun beef, marinated in moonshine, so tender it family affair and researched their options. just melted in his mouth. The side of grilled Because the owners love Arizona (some are vegetables (zucchini, red peppers, green natives, some transplants), they decided peppers, mushrooms, onions) added crunch, to focus on the five C’s. (Remember your flavor and nutrition. Arizona history class? The answer is copper, Tara told us that the chicken poblano climate, citrus, cattle and cotton.) Copper penne pasta ($10.75) is one of the house seemed the perfect element and, when favorites, so we sampled it as well. This was combined with moonshine, a new restaurant a delicious blend of grilled chicken, roasted identity was born. poblano cream sauce and pasta garnished Copper Still Moonshine Grill, located with tomatoes and cilantro and served with on the southeast corner of Gilbert and a garlic baguette. From the lunch menu, we Williams Field roads, opened in November sampled the Churrasco chicken tacos with 2013. The large open dining room has a Spanish rice ($6.50). Each tasty bite was spicy massive copper clad bar on the right and and very flavorful. comfortable booths and tables to the left. A We didn’t have dessert, but we will be garage-type door leads to an inviting patio back for the dessert nachos ($5.50). All the complete with televisions, lights and misters. flavors, textures and colors of tortillas, The fun art on the walls reflects the Arizona cinnamon, ice cream, whipped cream, theme and a feeling of pride in our beautiful chocolate syrup and caramel sauce sound Arizona flag with its starburst of color. Yes, very decadent. there is a copper still in one corner. If you are looking for a fun family gathering Our server, Tara, told us that we could place, a bar to watch sports on one of 15 sit wherever we wanted and promptly televisions or happy hour with drinks in copper brought our menus. She emphasized that mugs and moonshine martinis, drive to Copper most of the food, sauces, dressings and Still Moonshine Grill for delicious food and marinades are made fresh in-house and the excellent service with an Arizona twist. produce and meat are from local growers Copper Still Moonshine Grill whenever possible. All we could think is 2531 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101 “Wow! Everything sounds so good.” With Gilbert 85295 difficulty, we chose four items from the (480) 656-1476 expansive list of appetizers, salads, soups, www.copperstillmoonshinegrill.com entrees, flatbreads, tacos, sliders, burgers BY KATHY KERBY

May 2015

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May 2015

Neighbors

Cuisine and Wine Bistro offers French influence, flair retains that business, the culinary arts are his When Fabrice and Mairead Buschtetz passion. The Buschtetzs began their search set foot in a beautiful wine bar for sale in for a restaurant earlier this year and found Gilbert, it felt like that Cuisine and home. The couple Wine Bistro’s quickly decided to space was not far buy it and rename it. from Desert Car Cuisine and Wine Care. Bistro has emerged “It was with a French flair, destiny,” Mairead courtesy of the said. “We’re very Buschtetz family, who lucky. The place moved to the Valley is beautiful.” from France a few The years ago. Buschtetzs’ “One day we were first order of on our motorbike business upon and we were on the restaurant’s Indian School and purchase in Scottsdale roads and Mairead and Fabrice Buschtetz own Cuisine and March was to Fabrice turned around Wine Bistro. Submitted photo revamp the wine to me and said, ‘I want list. to go back to working in the kitchen.’ I was “We’ve been working on the list and now the happiest woman,” Mairead said. we’re ready,” she said. “It was a better idea Fabrice was trained in the culinary arts in to see which wines were really working and France and when they moved to Arizona, which wines weren’t.” he and Mairead bought the Desert Car Care She kept the ones that were working, Center in Gilbert. Although he loves cars and including Bouchard Aine and Fils Pinot STORY AND PHOTOS BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

Noir from Burgundy France, Seven Falls Merlot from Wahluke Slope, Washington and Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, New Zealand. The owners are also particularly proud of the Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Champagne from France. The wine list is arranged from milder to stronger in most instances to provide an easier way to follow the selections. “Champagne goes with everything,” Mairead added. Son and daughter Killian and Laura Buschtetz also work at Cuisine and Wine Bistro along with their parents’ future daughter-in-law, Clementine Eckert. As for the menu at Cuisine and Wine Bistro, it changes every two weeks. “Fabrice is very inventive and he likes to walk in and say, ‘Hey, I got a great price on this type of fish and I’m going to make this type of recipe,’” Mairead said. One particular dish that is a standout is the pave de cabillaude a la tomate avec un croustillant. The dish is cod with a layer of tangy tomato sauce, crowned with a layer of prosciutto and served over ratatouille. “Again, we try to do the menu intelligently and the dishes that work, stay,” Mairead said. As for escargot, Fabrice said customers are suggesting it stay on the menu permanently. “When we offered escargot, we had so many people asking for it that we couldn’t keep up,” he said. “We were amazed.”

www.GilbertSunNews.com

The Cuisine and Wine Bistro menu changes every two weeks and includes unique dishes such as the cod complemented with a layer of tangy tomato sauce, crowned with a layer of prosciutto and served over ratatouille. Submitted photo

The menu also includes meat and cheese boards, bruschettas, salads, appetizers, chef’s recommendations and desserts such as the poached pear in white wine sauce and dunked in fine chocolate with grilled almonds and whipped cream. “This restaurant fits our family perfectly,” Mairead said. “It’s like a well-fitting shoe. This is really what we’re all about.” Cuisine and Wine Bistro 1422 W. Warner Rd., Suite A100 Gilbert 85233 (480) 497-1422 www.facebook.com/cuisineandwinebistro

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Neighbors

May 2015

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MCC President Dr. Shouan Pan and his wife, Queenie Chen, pose with Rolfs’ Francis Tesmer and Rolf Lohse. The salon helped the college celebrate its 50th anniversary. Submitted photo

Rolfs helps MCC celebrate 50 years in Arizona with Tesmer serving on the For Rolfs Salon of the East Valley, it board of major organizations, including was a logical choice to pair up with Mesa the Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Community College for the school’s 50th Violence. anniversary. “The most important thing is we “Where Mesa Community College believe as a brand in intelligent beauty and us come together is we support versus superficial beauty,” she said. “We intelligent beauty,” look at every client said Francis Tesmer, and we want to CEO and co-owner match their outer of Rolfs. beauty with their “Beauty is inner beauty. education. Beauty “Nobody needs is self-confidence. to look like movie Beauty is giving stars or anyone else back.” in this world—just Rolfs, which has themselves. We a Rolfs Euro Salon believe that beauty location at Village is brain deep. Square at Dana Beauty is education Park in East Mesa, deep. Beauty is was a premier being involved in sponsor for MCC’s your community 50th anniversary. and giving back.” The celebration Tesmer said Rolfs attracted about is expanding its 420 guests and belief system as more than 50 of well as its business. them came from It also created a elsewhere in the new concept, “a Francis Tesmer signs the guest book during the United States, she very, very European said. Three former festivities. Submitted photo concept.” MCC presidents “In today’s world, attended the event, according to Tesmer. people want luxury. They want value. The salon and the school’s attitudes They want great things. They want or reflect what Rolfs’ management team can’t pay a ton of money for it. So how believes. Rolfs’ employees are heavily do you bring luxury and quality things to involved in the community. Throughout masses of people? We want every woman the company’s 27 years, Rolfs has to have access to luxury, not just the top sponsored more than 6,000 organizations 3 or 10 percent.” BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

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Our Community

elcome to our community map. Custom designed for Gilbert Sun News by talented artist Valerie Gower, it will serve as a monthly gathering place for our readers. Each month, look for new events, business openings and lots more, including an expanded map to include South Gilbert.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Missing?

ee something missing from the map? We would like to add local landmarks

and businesses serving our community. Please email anything you see missing to: mapit@gilbertsunnews.com, and we will see that it gets added.

Thanks for the help!

May 2015

Business

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Shutter Envy offers top-quality products, personalized service BY ALISON STANTON

Since the day Connie and Kevin Little opened Shutter Envy in 2004, they have strived to offer their customers beautiful window coverings in a wide variety of styles, colors and price points. Whether a customer is wanting to purchase plantation shutters made from either composite wood, solid bass wood or alder, cellular shades that can help keep rooms cooler, vertical blinds, Roman shades, roller blinds and much more, Shutter Envy is a one-stop windowcovering shop. The Littles, who co-own and operate Shutter Envy, have been residents of Arizona since 1994 and moved to Gilbert in 2004. When the couple decided to purchase plantation shutters for their new home in Gilbert, they immediately fell in love with shutters and the windowcovering industry. “We now work with residential customers around the state. Shutter Envy specializes in offering a free, noobligation in-home consultation for all customers,” Connie said. “We bring along product samples for all of our window coverings, measure all of the windows, and we also do all of our own installation,” Kevin said. “All our customers have to do is select

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the products walks of life. they like, sit back “We offer a and relax. We do large variety of the rest.” window covering One of the products that will main benefits of provide solutions the in-home visit, for every budget,” Connie said, is she said, adding that customers that they both can see exactly enjoy working how the various with and getting window covering to know their samples will customers. look inside their Plantation home with their shutters are an décor, comparing important aspect colors and styles of the business against their for Shutter Envy. countertops, “We offer a painted walls and variety of shutter cabinets. products to meet “They can every customer’s really see how decorating style,” the colors and Connie said. Connie and Kevin Little, co-owners and operators tones of each “For example, of Shutter Envy, said Plantation shutters are a top window covering seller. Submitted photo composite wood look, and match shutters are it to their rooms a lot easier,” she said. very popular and affordable and hold In addition to offering a wide variety up extremely well against the high of top-quality and attractive window heat we experience in Arizona. These coverings, Connie said she and Kevin shutters also have a smooth finish also enjoy meeting customers from all which makes cleaning and maintaining

them much easier as well. And just like most of our products, these shutters are offered with a manufacturer’s lifetime warranty.” “Basswood shutters are also very popular in Arizona and can be manufactured to fit an unlimited number of shapes and sizes including arched windows. Basswood shutters can be painted any color of white or stained to match your flooring, cabinetry or other furniture in the home,” Kevin said. “Customer service is really a very significant and important part of what we do,” Kevin added. “We are a solid business that is run properly, and we are licensed, bonded and insured. Fifty percent of our business is made up of repeat customers and referrals. We’ve worked with moms and dads and then their daughters and sons too.” Connie said that she and Kevin are truly happy to go to work each day. “We feel that if you love what you do, it won’t ever feel like work, and that is just how it is with us and Shutter Envy,” she said. “As long as you love what you are doing, that’s what matters”. For more information on Shutter Envy, call (602) 295-6864 or visit www. PhoenixShuttersandBlinds.com.

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Business

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May 2015

GREAT HOME ON A GREAT LOT WITH A POOL!

Owners Lisa Vukonich and Erin Owens dedicate the month of May to mothers, teachers and nurses at Fuchsia. Photo by Joseph Greenbaum

May is special for women at Fuchsia BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Fuchsia owners Lisa Vukonich and Erin Owens understand what it’s like to work hard. Whether a woman is a mother, teacher, nurse or business owner, she deserves a little pampering. Although they celebrate women daily, the staff of Fuchsia is taking it a step further by offering specials for mothers, nurses and teachers in May. “Mother’s Day is our second biggest holiday,” Vukonich said. “We have Mother’s Day and we also have Teacher and Nurse Appreciation Month. Every year, we feature certain specials for teachers and nurses. “We have a lot of members who are teachers or nurses who are constantly giving up themselves. We have specials specifically for them that are amazing deals.” That goes for Mother’s Day, as well. Fuchsia will be offering an 80-minute custom massage for $84 (valued at $104.99). The “Hot Date Facial,” which Owens describes as “an amazing service,” is $99 (regularly $145) and includes microdermabrasion, a microcurrent, a treatment mask, a two-layer eye lift and a massage of arms, hands and neck. “A woman’s skin will look absolutely fabulous after this service,” Owens said. Longtime business The two women met when Owens was Vukonich’s superior in the higher education field. “We worked together for five years,” Vukonich said. “I was looking to leave. I had two younger kids at the time. I was not enjoying the long work weeks. I missed many kids’ awards and events and things like that. “I wanted to be more in charge of my own schedule. Prior to that I was

a social worker, prior to that I was a cosmetologist. I kept my cosmetology license, even though no longer practicing and had gone on to college. I came full circle and ended up in the beauty industry.” Before entering the higher education field, Owens was in thoroughbred racing. Fuchsia opened in November 2006 in Village Square at Dana Park in East Mesa. The facility opened in a space a little less than 2,000 square feet, but moved to a new spot, where it currently sits, with more than 4,000 square feet of space. The duo and the spa were fortunate to make it through the recession. “I think there’s a couple of things that really kept us strong,” Owens said. “One of the things that we focused on really early was our membership.” A membership is $59 per month, Vukonich said. “There are probably seven to 10 different services you can choose from—custom facial, massage, microdermabrasion, body scrub. There are a variety of services you can get. “You can come in without a membership too.” Either way, clients will be receive great services and quality products at a “very reasonable cost,” Vukonich said. Next, Vukonich and Owens are franchising the spa, with the next location opening later in the year at High Street in North Phoenix. “A lot of people have approached us over the years because they thought we were already a franchise,” Vukonich said. “That’s always been a goal of ours.” They have the same goal for Fuchsia, but there’s another thing they have in common. Each loves Fuchsia services. “It’s fun to see the results on yourself,” Vukonich said. “We’re our best clients.”

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May 2015

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Gilbert Chamber hosts series of events through June 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—Midday Presented by Town & Country Office Cleaning 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, at Dragon Wok, 727 W. Ray Rd., Suite B1, Gilbert. This informal gathering is a fun way to share conversation with other professionals and learn more about businesses in the community. Free admission; $10 for lunch buffet. Registration required. Gilbert Leadership Prospective Student Meet & Greet 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, May 7, at Brunswick Zone XL- Gilbert, 1160 S. Gilbert Rd. Join the group for a meet and greet to learn more about the Gilbert Leadership program. Visit with program alumni and hear about their experience. Free admission.

Small Business Workshop— Managing Cash Flow Presented by Digital Intelligence Agency 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Friday, May 8, at Cooper Crossing Executive Suites, 1820 E. Ray Rd., Chandler. Business Academy connects ideas with a plan for action. Each workshop will focus on a topic or opportunity that will challenge participants’ thinking, help them to evaluate their goals, set their priorities and take their business to the next level. Member admission is $15; general admission is $40; Business Academy student: Free with PROMO code. The 411 Presented by Printwerx 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 13, at the chamber. The 411 is a comprehensive membership orientation at which businesses will learn how to maximize the benefits of their chamber investment. Fee event for current and prospective members of the chamber. Digital Marketing: Building and Understanding Online Traffic 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, May 21, at Cooper Crossing Executive Suites.

Join the chamber for this digital marketing workshop as experts focus on building and understanding online traffic patterns. Member admission is $20; general admission is $50. Business Academy students: $12 with code.

Mastermind Workshop— Funding Opportunities Presented by Cooper Crossing Executive Suites 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Friday, May 22, at Copper Crossing Executive Suites. Participants will learn how to effectively manage cash flow and plan for their future. Member admission is $15, with nonmembers paying $40. BA students: Free with PROMO code. Chamber Chat—Morning Presented by Plumbing Medic 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Wednesday, June 3, at Seville Golf and Country Club, 6683 S. Clubhouse Dr., Gilbert. This breakfast is an informal way to share conversation and meet with other professionals. No admission is charged. Individuals are responsible for the cost of their own meal. Breakfast buffet is $10 and includes beverage and tax. Additional gratuity requested. Reservations required.

Small Business Workshop—Live, Work, Life Balance Presented by Digital Intelligence Agency 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Friday, June 12, at Cooper Crossing Executive Suites. Business Academy connects ideas with a plan for action. Each workshop will focus on a topic or opportunity that will challenge participants’ thinking, help them to evaluate their goals, set their priorities and take their business to the next level. Chamber member admission is $15; general admission is $40. Business Awards Luncheon Presented by American Furniture Warehouse 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 17, at Doubletree by Hilton Phoenix-Gilbert, San Tan Elegante Resort & Conference Center, 1800 S. SanTan Village Pkwy., Gilbert. Join the chamber in honoring outstanding businesses and individuals nominated in the following categories: Business of the Year (Large), Business of the Year (Mid-sized), Business of the Year (Small), Employer of Choice, Family Business of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year. Member admission is $35; general admission is $50. Reserved table for eight is $280. Sponsored table for eight is $350.

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www.GilbertSunNews.com Digital Marketing: Putting It Together With Sales/ Marketing Automation 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, June 18, at Cooper Crossing Executive Suites. Join the chamber for this digital marketing workshop as it focuses on pulling it all together with sales and marketing automation. Member admission is $20; general admission is $50. Business Academy student admission is $12 with code.

Mastermind Workshop – The Exit Strategy. Create Your Succession and/or Contingency Plan Presented by Cooper Crossing Executive Suites 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., at Cooper Crossing Executive Suites. The unexpected happens, as does retirement; what does it mean for businesses? Member admission is $15; general admission is $40. BA student: Free with PROMO code.

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Hatfield Family Medicine and Mesa Family Medical Center merge Physicians’ offices Hatfield Family Medicine and Mesa Family Medical Center name have joined together under the new name Partners in Primary Care. By bringing these two long-standing medical practices together, Partners in Primary Care will have five centers across the East Valley, located in Chandler, Gilbert and Mesa. “Partners in Primary Care builds upon the history, reputation and clinical expertise that made our two, longstanding medical practices successful,” said Dr. David Hatfield, regional medical director with Partners in Primary Care. “This new, unified brand allows us to communicate a name and cohesiveness that represents an even bigger promise to our patients—to partner with them to provide the right relationship for better health and well-being.” While the practice name is changing, doctors and staff at each center will remain the same. The combined group of medical centers includes 19 health care practitioners. All five centers are also accepting new patients, including those on Medicare. “While we serve all age groups, we are expanding on a successful model that specializes in senior population health management,” said Mike Slice, operations director with Partners in Primary Care. “Our single, simplified goal is to proactively engage our patients in their health to help improve their quality of life.” In addition to providing primary care service, such as physicals, management and expertise of most chronic and acute care conditions, the centers also provide immunizations, injections, EKG, minor dermatological and surgical procedures and patient education. The centers regularly host complimentary doctor talks and health improvement events for both patients and members of the community. The next events include:

Medication Safety Seminar with Medication Review: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, May 15 Doctor Talk on High Blood Pressure: 10 a.m. Monday, May 18 Senior Health and Fitness Day: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wednesday, May 27. For more details on these and other events, call (480) 4774808. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www. PartnersInPrimaryCare.com.

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Oregano’s collecting baby formula donations Oregano’s Pizza Bistro always has given back to the community, but now the local pizza chain’s public service is taking a new direction—the first “Bottles For Babies” powdered baby formula drive at the company’s 15 restaurants across Arizona from Monday, May 4, through Sunday, May 10. The Gilbert location is at 328 N. Gilbert Rd. Its phone number is (480) 882-9336. “Bottles for Babies”— in partnership with St. Mary’s Food Bank and the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona—will allow Oregano’s guests to donate cash in person, donate online at Oreganos. com or bring powdered baby formula in sealed boxes to its restaurants all week long. The idea for the drive originated with Oregano’s founder and CEO Mark S. Russell, who recently became a first-time father. Russell said the birth of his son, River, showed him how much infants

depend on adults for each meal and how expensive baby formula can be. “Babies have no choice but to rely on everyone around them,” said Russell. “They’re at the mercy of everyone. That’s why we’re doing ‘Bottles For Babies.’ No one else is doing it and it’s a great start. We think it’s a great way to give back to the community across Arizona and to continue to do what we’ve done for so many years now—feed families and make sure everyone’s taken care of and satisfied.” Founded in 1993, Oregano’s has a dozen Valley locations, two restaurants in Tucson, one location in Flagstaff and one under construction in Queen Creek. Specializing in original Chicago-style thin crust, stuffed and pan pizzas, as well as abundant specialty salads and pastas, Oregano’s continues to be inspired by recipes passed down from Russell’s family.

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Doing Business Magaña’s Tacos

Owners: Dave and Christina Magaña How long in business: Since Jan. 10 Specialty: Mexican food, all of which is fresh and homemade, including burritos, street tacos, Navajo tacos, green and red chile, beans and rice. Address: Inside Shell, 797 E. Ray Rd., Gilbert Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Phone: (480) 857-1220 Email: pdavidmag@gmail.com

Send in your business profile for ‘Doing Business’ The Gilbert Sun News would like to welcome new area businesses or existing ones that may be new to our readers. Submit information about your business for a “Doing Business” mini-business profile in an upcoming issue of our publication, which is distributed to 25,000 homes, racks and boxes the fifth of each month. Please include all of the following items: name of business, name of owner(s), how long the business has existed, unique features, hours of operation, address, telephone number, website and email address. Also include an at least 300 dpi photo of the business owner or logo. Email this information to info@gilbertsunnews.com or visit www. gilbertsunnews.com and click on the “Doing Business” form at the top of the page to submit.

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New Gilbert expo focuses on babies, families BY MEGHAN MCCOY

Organizers of an inaugural Gilbert event are hoping to create a one-stop shop for the needs of all families. Chandler-based PB&J Events and Promotion will bring the “Babies Bonanza Showcase and Expo” to SanTan Village from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 16. “It covers a gamut of ages,” said PB&J founder Gary Klayman of the event. “Our goal is to be a great resource for those who are in the market for having kids. It is something near and dear to our hearts and as a company producing kid-friendly events and events for young families.” Klayman said he decided to organize the expo when he was unable to find a similar event in the Valley. The event was scheduled at the Phoenix Convention Center, but it was moved to SanTan Village to accommodate parking. Attendees can also shop and dine at the shopping center before and after the expo. “It’s a great location,” Klayman said. The expo will feature about 60 exhibitors showcasing and demonstrating local and regional products. Experts will offer health and fitness education, and summertime activity and parenting tips, while representatives offer free samples and giveaways. An hour-long baby shower begins at 12 p.m., with all pregnant women receiving a raffle ticket. Additional raffle tickets will be sold for the baby shower with all proceeds benefiting a charity that was undetermined as of press time. Klayman said pregnant women will be chosen to participate in activities on stage for prizes. Kids can keep busy in the Super Tots Party-sponsored baby play area. The company provides moveable indoor play areas.

PB&J is also hosting “Destination PB&J” from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 6, at SanTan Village. It will highlight summer activities and staycation spots in the Valley. “It’s all about promoting those businesses that cater to kids and kid activities whether indoors or outdoors across the valley,” Klayman said.

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$ A third event, PB&J’s “Small Bites...A Family Food Festival,” is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 20, at Rawhide Western Town and Steakhouse in Chandler. While other food festival are for adults and serve alcohol, “Small Bites” is geared toward families. Local food trucks and restaurants will offer bitesized portions of kid-friendly food. Klayman said he is always on the lookout for participants for his unique expos. For more information, visit http://pbjevents.com. “We are always looking for those unique activities and unique businesses that we can showcase that maybe the general public doesn’t know about,” he said. “We reach out for those businesses that you (do not) see at every event, but those that might be hidden gems.”

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Teen is powerlifting her way to the top BY TIM J. RANDALL

Seventeen-year-old Gilbert High School senior Sara Olguin is taking competitive powerlifting to a whole new level. Sara recently competed in California and Arizona in the female, 16- to 17-year-old age bracket, but even more impressive was she competed in two separate weight classes. The result: Sara set four United States Powerlifting Association (USPA) Arizona State records and four national records. She took first place in her division and best overall award for the junior women’s class (under 23). Sara only began working at it less than a year ago, when her brother, Sam, introduced it to her. He’s no slouch: Samuel set three state records recently. He won first place in his division and best overall award for Men’s Classic Raw. “Sam and I had been training at bodybuilding, but then he started powerlifting and I followed his lead. Once I started powerlifting, I just loved it,” Sara said. Not long after that Sara and Sam began competing in USPA tournaments. “I really enjoy the competition and pushing myself to win,” she said.

Powerlifting involves three events— squats, bench press and deadlift. For each activity there are three opportunities to lift: an opening weight is what competitors know they can accomplish; a middle weight; and last a max weight that tests their upper range. Upon completion, the highest weights are added together for a cumulative total. “All the training prepares you to go after that max weight and beat your personal best,” ‘Sara said. In the first tournament of March, Sara competed in the 165-pound weight class and reached a total of 755 pounds. In the subsequent contest she competed at the 148-pound division and reached a total of 744 pounds. In each tournament she finished first in her weight class/age and female division, and placed in the top five in the open category against all females. Her brother also competed in one of the meets with Sara and finished first in his division. But big brother said he really gives credit to his sister for doing so well and achieving athletic success in a short time. With support from her parents, Michael and Judy Olguin, Sara is making a name for herself in the ranks

of the USPA. “I’m very proud of her and what she has accomplished both academically and athletically,” Michael said. “I’m amazed by how much she has matured this past year. Not only did she set very high goals for herself, she also managed her time in a way that gave her the best opportunity to achieve those goals.” Sara has attained great success in the sport, while also earning a 4.0 in school. She has accepted a full academic scholarship to NAU this fall. She also works an afternoon job five days a week.

SEE POWERLIFTING PAGE 34

Sara Olguin has achieved success as a powerlifter while earning a 4.0 grade point average at Gilbert High School. GSN photo by Kimberly Carrillo

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POWERLIFTING FROM PAGE 32

“It is a lot to do, but I enjoy having the opportunities,” she said. The schedule can be challenging with school, work and training, however, with the help of a regimen that includes a strength and conditioning coach and a diet that is primarily chicken, rice and veggies, Sara is at her best. She works out with Sam six days a week from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Power MMA and Fitness in Gilbert, focusing on the lifts she will be doing in competition, while also incorporating strength training and cardio. “Sam has my workouts all ready when we start and I follow those to constantly get better,” she said. Sara is already training vigorously for August’s next big meet, which will see 180 entrants. “Sam and I are building my strength and are hoping to break into the top five of overall lifters at the 132-pound weight class. My goal is to lift 900 pounds total.” Powerlifting is a sport that is not just about strength, it depends on intense focus and determination, traits that Sara displays in abundance. “I have never put a cap on what I can achieve in powerlifting. Nine hundred pounds is the number now and for the next meet it will be 1,000. I just want to keep lifting and achieve,” she said.

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Gilbert girl wins second-place arts prize In seeking aspiring artists and writers among junior high students across the Valley, 60-year-old Seton Catholic Preparatory announced the winners of its “Leaders of Tomorrow Art and Poetry Contest.” The first place winner in the art category, Kasey Behnke of Mesa, an eighth-grade student at St. Timothy School, took home a $600 Visa gift card for her art submission. In the poetry category, Anna Iverson of Mesa, an eighth grader at St. MaryBasha, received a $600 Visa gift card for her poetry submission, “Weapon vs. Tool.” Earning second place in the art category was Miranda Pieper of Gilbert, an eighth grader at St. Timothy School for her submission, “I Am Malala.” Miranda Pieper shows off her artwork to Cyd Totten, Harrison Geryk of Chandler, an eighth grader at St. Mary-Basha, Seton Catholic fine arts teacher. Submitted photo earned second place for his submission, “St. Elizabeth Ann category was Elena D’Avanzo of Phoenix, Seton.” Both students received $120 gift a seventh grade student at Summit certificates to the Chandler Center for School of Ahwatukee, for her submission, the Arts. “Courage.” Elena received a $60 Michaels Receiving third place in the art

gift card. In the poetry category, Rowdy Olson of Stanfield, an eighth grader at St. Anthony of Padua, received third place for his submission, “Paws,” and a $60 Barnes & Noble gift card. The award recipients attended the “Seton Catholic Prep Visual Arts Showcase” on March 19 in the Seton Fine Arts building where their works were on display. Entries were judged by Seton faculty members in the departments of Fine Arts and English. “We received many excellent entries,” said Bridget O’Neill, English department chairwoman at Seton Catholic Prep. “It was inspiring to see the talent of such young students, as well as their interpretation of the virtues of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton through their art and prose.” The “Leaders of Tomorrow Art and Poetry Contest” was created to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Seton Catholic and recognize the gifts in all children as set forth by St. Elizabeth Ann Seton: courage, determination, faith and love. These gifts, also called charisms, are integrated in each student’s experience at Seton Catholic. The contest required sixth- through eighth-grade students to create their artwork and/or poetry on these four central themes.

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Teen singer wins ‘Showcase Singer’ prize

May 2015

Katy Litwiller, a 14-year-old student of the Learning Foundation and Performing Arts School in Gilbert, was named the Showcase Singer of the Year in the teen division during the Youth Music Academy’s Hot Pipes Grand Finals at ASU Kerr Cultural Center.

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Showcase Singer of the Year Kathy Litwiller poses with her trophy. Submitted photo

The Sunday, April 12, event featured performances by 14 students who placed in the top rankings throughout the series. The junior winner was 11-year-old Morgan Karam of Cheyenne Traditional School in Scottsdale. The program, which is a biannual initiative of the nonprofit Arizona Music Festival Foundation, consisted of regular, hands-on workshops with the goal of helping these 30 students become wellrounded performers. Focus areas covered all aspects of stage presence including vocals, choreography, theatric skills and more. Each Monday, students would perform during the Hot Pipes Showcase for Singers that featured everything from rock ‘n’ roll- and discothemed tunes to Motown tributes and throwbacks to Billie Holiday and Barbra Streisand. The program also included field trips to a recording studio and the Musical Instrument Museum. “Programs like these are becoming increasingly important, especially as funding for school-provided music initiatives continue to be a challenge,” said Arizona Music Festival Foundation founder, C.C. Jones, who is also a musician and producer. For those interested in auditioning for the fall program, they can contact Jones at (602) 999-9061. The value for the 10-week program is $1,500, but the foundation offers full and partial scholarships based upon need.

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Youth

May 2015

Greenhouse Montessori earns national certification

BY ALISON STANTON

Pomegranate, orange and lemon trees, filled with ripe and juicy fruit. Musical instruments, made from natural materials. Plenty of green grass and gardening areas filled with growing plants. These are just a few of the many highlights of the outside classroom at Greenhouse Montessori in Gilbert. Jennifer Papp, owner and operator of Greenhouse Montessori, said the half-acre outdoor space recently earned national certification as a Nature Explore Classroom from Dimensions Educational Research Foundation and the Arbor Day Foundation. From 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 9, Greenhouse Montessori is hosting an open house, during which prospective students, their families and other members of the community can tour the school and enjoy the outdoor learning space. Papp said to earn certification, the outdoor classroom must offer a variety of interactive elements like garden and pathway areas, musical instruments and natural materials that can be used to build and create art. Greenhouse Montessori’s outdoor classroom was designed according to standards and principles from Dimensions Educational

Research Foundation. Papp heard about the idea of a Nature Explore Classroom about five years ago during a Montessori conference. “After meeting with vendors who designed natural playscapes I thought what an amazing way it would be to utilize the space we have and build upon our philosophy of teaching,” she said. With the help of enthusiastic parent volunteers, the outdoor classroom quickly began to take shape. “We tweaked it a bit as we went along to make sure it does what everyone needs it to do, but it’s just an amazing place for kids to learn and interact with nature, as well as learn to respect nature. Anything kids can learn inside, they can also learn outside,” Papp said. One popular area of the Nature Explore Classroom is the mud kitchen, where students can concoct messy masterpieces. A large grassy area encourages physical movement and Papp said kids can often be found carrying rocks and moving them with wheelbarrows to construct castles and forts. “We have a lot of seasonal trees and there are lots of different things to smell and chromatically a lot of colors,” Papp said. At least one teacher is always outside

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Students from Greenhouse Montessori help to plant flowers near the school’s sign. Submitted photo

supervising and keeping an eye on the kids and the weather. Lauren Issar, an office administrator at Greenhouse Montessori, said she spends a lot of time outside with the students. “Just seeing them create things with nature is so special, and there are so many learning opportunities that still give them the chance to be kids,” she said, adding even something as simple as picking an orange and squeezing it to get juice takes kids out of the mindset that food only comes from the grocery store. “We want them to appreciate nature,

and here they can come outside and create things and find plenty of opportunities,” Issar said. For Papp, knowing that her students are enthusiastically sharing all that they are learning outdoors with their parents is especially gratifying. “They go home and they share that they helped plant flowers or that they tasted fresh oranges,” she said. Greenhouse Montessori is located at 505 S. Gilbert Rd. in Gilbert. For more information, call (480) 635-0386 or visit www.greenhousemontessorischool.com

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Spirituality

www.GilbertSunNews.com

May 2015

Wonderful Mercy Church turned a dirt lot into a prayer garden as a gift to the community. The garden is free to use and church membership is not a requirement. GSN photo by Tim Sealy

Prayer Garden is centerpiece of Wonderful Mercy

The garden’s other remarkable piece is Since its fall opening, the Prayer Garden an 8,700-pound rock that was placed with at Wonderful Mercy Church has become a crane. The two features together proa source of serenity and support for the vide peace and serenity, except for the congregation and comoccasional road munity as a whole. noise. The garden Associate Pastor Bob is open to folks of Blayter wouldn’t have any denomination, it any other way. and marks an era “People pray out of change for the here all the time,” he church said. “We’ve had baby “Once the vines dedications, wedding grow, it’ll look renewals. It’s open 24-7 more garden-y,” and there’s no charge. Blayter said with a There’s no offering resmile. “We have a quired. It’s a gift to the new sign, too. It’s community. We want Wonderful Mercy people to come and with the big W.” enjoy their time here.” Wonderful Located in a former Mercy boasts dirt lot, the garden was a 250-member one of the church’s congregation, longtime goals. It, too, although services leaves just enough hover around the space to allow for a 180 mark. Blaynew building, should ter, who is one the congregation outof three pastors, grow the church. is planning on “We felt God speakretiring the end ing to us,” Blayter said Associate pastor Bob Blayter was able to see of May. He has Wonderful Mercy Church’s prayer garden to about the beginnings one wish for the fruition before his retirement at the end of of the garden. “One church goers. May. GSN photo by Tim Sealy of the projects we “I hope the wanted to do was a prayer garden.” ultimate goal is we all come to love The congregation was able to raise Jesus,” Blayter said. “That’s the endgame enough money so that the church was for us. With that, I hope that they feel able to create it debt free. loved, that they feel important. Everyone “We also had a wonderful contractor matters. who threw in a lot of freebies,” he said. “For us, pleasing god is the most impor“There are two central features. There’s tant, and loving and pleasing each other is the Scripture wall. We took Scriptures next. We’re really strong on love and carthat people submitted, we voted on them ing. Jesus said the two great commandand had an architect artistically make ments are love God and love one another. this.” Hopefully we’re doing that.” BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

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Spirituality

May 2015

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. Central Christian Church—Gilbert 965 E. Germann Rd., Gilbert 85297 www.centralaz.com/Arena/?page=5644 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 Latterday Saints 3301 S. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert 85297 (480) 822-5000 www.lds.org/church/temples/gilbertarizona?lang=eng For more information about the temple, visit the website above. First United Methodist Church of Gilbert 331 S. Cooper Rd., Gilbert 85233 (480) 892-9166 www.gilbertumc.org

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the Holy Spirit. God is the creator of all things, including man. 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. 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. Real Life Church Church services at the Higley Center for the Performing Arts 4132 E. Pecos Rd., Gilbert 85295 (480) 444-0231 or www.reallife.cc The church believes in one God consisting of the Father, the Son and

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. St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church 2654 E. Williams Field Rd., Gilbert 85295 (480) 279-6737 www.smarymag.org A Roman Catholic parish that witnesses the love of Jesus Christ through evangelization, Catechesis and celebration of the Sacraments. 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. 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; 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. Two Rivers Church 645 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 180, Gilbert 85234 (480) 892-2435, www.2riverschurch.org Services: 6 p.m. Saturdays; and 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 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.

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Arts

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May 2015

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Performances of “Les Miserables” are scheduled from Thursday, June 25 through Saturday, June 27. Submitted photo

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The Okawas extended their credit and used up retirement and savings accounts as well as their children’s college funds to keep Copperstar going. By October 2014, the family was upside down, and they finally accepted defeat, thanks to the ongoing expense of rent for a studio and shop. Okawa said she found someone to rent the studio, but Copperstar is still paying rent on a nearly 3,000-square-foot shop. To make money, Okawa has been selling Copperstar’s costumes, sets and props. “Beginning Copperstar as I did—with no training or background in nonprofit— created a sort of snowball effect,” she said. “We started out with nothing, so we were always a show behind financially.” Higley Center for the Performing Arts Operations Manager Robert Zucker wanted to help Copperstar and his facility at the same time. “I sat down with Mary-Jo Okawa and talked about the realities,” he said. “She is an artistic director. I am a businessman. We have different views of putting on a performance and I think the two of us working together will have much better results. That is what this is all about... me helping them with the business operations and them restoring musical theater.” The partnership began five years ago when Copperstar was a fledgling theater company looking for a home. Higley Center housed Copperstar for three years before it moved into the Mesa Arts Center. Zucker said he kept tabs on Copperstar because of its work with kids and the public. Higley Center attracts the same audience.

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Higley Center for the Performing Arts has given Chandler’s Copperstar Repertory Co. yet another chance for a comeback by providing a theater space for its production of “Les Miserables.” Copperstar has faced a number of hardships after Mary-Jo Okawa, the theater company’s founder and artistic producing director, and her family watched their garage go up in flames two years ago. The three-car space had been converted into a scene shop, which held all of the costumes and props. “The fire started in the garage and they never discovered how,” Okawa said. “My husband heard a big bang, which he thought was a gunshot. He went outside to see what was happening and our garage exploded. It had been burning for a while.” The house was a complete loss and demolished. For the next 10 months, the family lived in hotels and temporary housing until their house was rebuilt. Consequently, the night of the fire, Copperstar was set to hold auditions for “The Wizard of Oz.” The family showed up for the tryouts as is—complete with soot on their faces and hands. That resulted in a sea of support. Okawa received many gifts and was nominated for CBS 5’s “Pay It Forward” award. Community theaters opened their warehouses for costumes and props. However, the hardships have snowballed. “In hindsight, it might have been wise to have taken a break when the fire happened because the years that followed have been very difficult and heartbreaking,” she said. “But truthfully, without Copperstar to keep us going and give us a bigger picture to focus on, I believe this time of our lives would have been even more difficult.”

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Arts

May 2015

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LES MISERABLES FROM PAGE 39

The band is guitarist Terry Bussoletti, singers Melisza and Jessica Gransbergen, drummer Louis Ippolito and bassist Pete Gransbergen. Not shown are keyboardist/saxophonist Jim Morrow and sound technician Jeff Thomas. Submitted photo

Music in the blood of Gilbert sisters BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Melisza Gransbergen and her sister, Jessica, know a thing or two about music. The Gilbert-based sisters, who hail from Chicago, grew up inspired by their musically inclined parents and grandparents. They are rolling those memories into the cover band The Real Thing. “Our dad, who plays bass with us now, was always in bands,” said singer Melisza Gransbergen. “We grew up going backstage to different concerts. “I remember being little and being backstage at REO Speedwagon. That’s how we grew up. We would fall asleep on the band room floor. After they were done, we’d sneak into the bass drum and fall asleep.” In the duo’s formative years, their family supplied the girls with guitars, pianos, microphones and even karaoke machines. “We were locked in our rooms for hours at a time, singing, singing, singing. We made our own mix tapes.” All of that paid off for the Gransbergen sisters. Melisza manages the band and shares vocal duties with Jessica,

performing songs by the likes of Maroon 5, Aretha Franklin, Adele, Bruno Mars, Katy Perry, Foster the People and Joss Stone. The six-piece act will perform as part of the Downtown Concert Series at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 14, at Water Tower Plaza. For more information, visit www.therealthingazband.com. “I wanted to play for my community,” she said. “Downtown Gilbert is so hot right now. It’s exciting to see what we’re getting here in Gilbert. People are wanting to move here, too.” Each gig is exciting to Melisza, who sees The Real Thing as a full-time job. “I left the corporate world,” she said. “The company I had worked for let everybody go. They had two new CEOs. I was there for eight years and helped build it up. I managed call centers all around the United States.” When she was laid off, she saw it as a sign to pursue music full time. “I wasn’t managing the band at that time,” she said. “It’s just been insane since then—in the best way possible. I love it. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

“Since Copperstar left, we have been missing musical theater. I always felt it was a big hole in our offering,” he said. Conversations that began six months ago turned serious about three weeks ago when the two organizations began a partnership. “Honestly, we could not be more excited or thrilled,” Okawa said. “We truly thought we were done and had made peace with it, but we were still grappling with a lot of debt. When Bob Zucker contacted me and asked if we were interested in coming back, I honestly did not think it was possible. But Bob believed in us and has worked very hard to make it happened and we are delighted.” Copperstar’s first performance at the Higley Center will be “Les Miserables” from Thursday, June 25, through Saturday, June 27. Okawa said they have been applying for the rights of “Les Miserables” since 2008 because it is one of her favorite shows. “It was just a fantastic turn of events and a blessing (for) the rights to one of the greatest shows of all times for our homecoming,” she said. “There could not be a better show for a second chance.” Copperstar is also trying to raise $25,000 through Razoo by May 15. As of April 26, the site, www.razoo.com/story/

Copperstar Repertory Co. is bringing “Les Miserables” to the Higley Center for the Performing Arts. Submitted photo

Savecopperstar, shows Copperstar has about $23,000 to go. “These funds will help us catch up on nearly all of our previous debt,” Okawa said. “Proceeds from ‘Les Miserables’ will be used to finish paying our debt and maybe even pay a bit of ‘the Okawa Loan’ off as well.” “Les Miserables” hits the stage at various times from Thursday, June 25, and Saturday, June 27, at the Higley Center for the Performing Arts, 4132 E. Pecos Rd., Gilbert. Tickets are $18 to $35. For more information, call (480) 279-7194 or visit www.higleyarts.org.

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Arts

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ON STAGE Michael McDonald, Saturday, May 2, WHP. McDonald is known for such hits as “What a Fool Believes” and “I Keep Forgettin’.” “War & Peace—Homage to the Great Wars,” Saturday, May 2, CCA. The Chandler Symphony Orchestra, a group of volunteer musicians led by conductor Jack Herriman, will provide “War & Peace—Homage to the Great Wars.” “Oh, the Places We’ll Go!,” Saturday, May 2, CCA. The Chandler Children’s Choir will sing songs that will inspire attendees to soar “Over the Rainbow.” “The Three Javelinas Gala,” Saturday, May 2, TCA. Guests will be treated to a cocktail hour, live music, silent auction, southwestern photo booth and a VIP production of “The Three Javelinas.” “Greater Tuna,” Saturday, May 2, Thursday, May 7, and Saturday, May 9, TPT. The play is filled with colorful characters in the third smallest town in Texas, the fictional city of Tuna. A-Track, Sunday, May 3, MDN. At the age of 15, A-Track became the youngest DJ to win a DJ-battling world championship and the first to win all three major championships.

“For Lovers And Others,” Friday, May 8, WHP. “For Lovers and Others” is a concert featuring Jidenna, Sevyn Streeter, BJ The Chicago Kid, Charles Hamilton, Anthony Lewis and John Hart. “Remember When...An Old-Fashioned Love Story,” Friday, May 8, and Saturday, May 9, CCA. The CaZo Dance’s inaugural show will take audience members on a journey of love, family, loss and the appreciation of life itself. War, Saturday, May 9, WHP. War has had a string of hits such as “Low Rider,” “Spill the Wine” and “Why Can’t We Be Friends.” Sons of the Pioneers, Saturday, May 9, TPT. Sons of the Pioneers have been celebrating the songs of the West for more than 75 years. Fifty-Six, Sunday, May 10, TPT. The group will perform hits from such artists as Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Gene Vincent, Eddie Cochran, Carl Perkins and Elvis. Eddie Money, Friday, May 15, WHP. Money has scored hits like “Baby Hold On” and “Two Tickets to Paradise.” “The Wizard of Oz,” Thursday, May 21, through Friday, July 3, HCT. “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” as Dorothy and Toto join Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion on a journey to the magical land of Oz.

May 2015

Vertical Horizon, Sunday, May 31, LW. Vertical Horizon is a popular alternative rock, post-grunge group who had a string of hits in 1999 and the early 2000s. Some of its hits include “Everything You Want,” “You’re a God” and “Best I Ever Had (Grey Sky Morning.) The Chainsmokers, Sunday, May 31, MDN. The Chainsmokers put out remixes of popular indie tracks.

VENUES

Dirty South, Sunday, June 7, MDN. Dragan Roganovic, otherwise known by his stage name Dirty South, is a world-renowned DJ, two-time Grammy-nominated producer and global festival headliner. Butch Walker, Friday, June 12, LW. Bradley Glenn Walker III, known as Butch Walker, gained his first taste of major label success in the ‘90s as a member of the group Marvelous 3, whose single “Freak of the Weak” became a modern rock hit in 1999.

CCA—Chandler Center for the Arts 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler Tickets: (480) 782-2680, www.chandlercenter.org

MDN—Máyá Day + Nightclub 7333 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale Tickets: (480) 625-0528 or www.mayaclubaz.com

HCT—Hale Center Theatre 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert Tickets: (480) 497-1181, www.haletheatrearizona.com

TCA—Tempe Center for the Arts 700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe Tickets: (480) 921-5761 www.childsplayaz.org

LW—Livewire 7320 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale Tickets: (480) 970-1112 or www.Livewireaz.com

TPT—The Palms Theatre 5247 E. Brown Rd., Mesa Tickets: (480) 924-6260, www.thepalmstheatre.com

MAC — Mesa Arts Center One E. Main St., Mesa Tickets: (480) 644-6500, www.mesaartscenter.com

WHP—Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler Tickets: (800) 946-4452 or www.wingilariver.com/wild-horse-pass

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Opinion

May 2015

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DENNY BARNEY. Submitted photo

Policymakers across the nation are re-examining criminal justice, searching for a more effective— and cost effective—way to improve what has been a revolving door of crime, incarceration, recidivism and

and our taxpayers will be much smaller. We recently completed a six-month evaluation of “Thinking for a Change” (T4C), a 25-lesson plan, developed by the National Institute of Corrections, designed to change the patterns of thinking that get these repeat offenders into so much trouble. The theory is simple. The way you think leads to the way you act. Actions become behavior. If you change the thinking, you change the behavior. We are using T4C in our jails and for our probationers. But we are targeting high risk, repeat offenders. Why? They are the most likely to reoffend and commit more crimes. Improve their behavior, you make a larger dent in crime. Simple. Our study found that T4C participants are significantly less likely to recidivate in a six-month time frame. And those

despair. I was pleased to hear the Town of Gilbert and City of Chandler opened a united holding facility last December. Having their officers drive misdemeanor suspects down to the county intake facility to then turn around and transport them back to court in Chandler or Gilbert the next day didn’t make sense. Prisoners who need to be held for more than 24 hours are still booked in one of our county jails, but having the shortterm holding facility keeps police officers in their community and reduces costs to citizens. This innovative solution by public safety employees is to be commended. Efforts are being made among city and county law enforcement agencies to introduce programs that will reduce recidivism among So, too, is the offenders by changing patterns of behavior. reform effort underway in Maricopa County. Public safety comprises more who do reoffend, take longer to return than 50 percent of the county’s budget, to jail than non-participants who about $1 billion in all. The Maricopa also recidivate. T4C participants also County Sheriff’s Office, superior court, have fewer jail disciplinary incidents. adult and juvenile probation, the Researchers estimate that just in the first county attorney, public defender and wave of T4C participants, some 423 jail Correctional Health are each heavily bed days have been saved. invested. Our departments, along with Other interesting initiatives include the our county Justice System Planning and use of “Peer Navigators” to assist recently Information (JSPI) group, have partnered released seriously mentally ill inmates get with Mercy Maricopa Integrated Care and acclimated back in their communities and several nonprofit providers on several connect with health services. Preliminary promising research and evidence-based evaluations show greatly reduced initiatives. recidivism among the mentally ill who I am a stickler for data. I want to know received a referral to this program. Other how many individuals are in our jails on programs include promising new policies an average day (7,900). And what is the in classifying inmates inside the jail system, average length of stay (27.8 days). And which could reduce jail incidents and focus how much does it cost to book an inmate programming to the higher risk inmates. ($286). And what it costs to keep an The results are tentative but clearly inmate in jail each day ($85.49). positive. We’re headed in the right If we can reduce recidivism among direction. the higher-risk offenders, turn them toward more productive lives, then our Denny Barney is a Gilbert resident and communities will be that much safer, our a member of the Maricopa County Board jails and prisons less overcrowded. And of Supervisors. the overall burden on the county budget

May 2015

www.GilbertSunNews.com

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To Place A Classified Ad...Here's All You Do! Write your ad in the spaces below, or use a separate sheet of paper. All ads must be paid before each monthly deadline. Gilbert Sun News reserves the right to edit or refuse any ad. DEADLINE FOR ADS IS THE 16TH OF THE MONTH PRIOR TO THE MONTH YOU WANT YOUR AD PUBLISHED. Ads received after the deadline will be printed in the next available issue. Send your ad copy, indicating payment type, and mail to:

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Opinion

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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!

e-mail us at:

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Three ways to Sound Off: leave a message at:

(480) 348-0343 Option 8

Oh stop complaining, restless public. Baseball is where you go to rest your mind and body after too much agitation from basketball and football. Wise up. Baseball is fun and good for you. (Man’s voice) I live in Gilbert and I think it is an important statement to make that I love pie. (Woman’s voice) He really, really loves it. I was very pleased to see your announcement about the plastic bag collection. I live in Sunland Village East, which is kind of difficult, because we are in Mesa, but we are in the Gilbert school district. At my neighborhood market, I talked with one of the clerks and they have a big bin to collect plastic bags. They’re not picked up there. They’re just thrown in the trash. They must just fill up the bin and truck them out to the back and throw them in the trash can. It’s better off not to have a bin, or tell people to go to another store. How sick. Those who defend a man who would behead another man, need to be returned to their country of origin of, “This-is-OK kind of war.” They should go home where they came from. If they were born here. They should be sent back to where their parents came from, if they can’t do any

visit:

www.gilbertsunnews.com

better raising them to be Americans or Englishmen. Shame on all of them. Shame on the world who defend one who would decapitate another. God, the world is sure going to hell fast. Wake up world. There’s only one solution to all your problems and it’s always been called birth control—even the animals know that. Maybe the people in “Fifty Shades of Grey” might start teaching the practice. How about that? Funny how things work out.

minds.

How sad. Some people will never stop spreading seeds of hate among the gardens of young

Call: Tracey Wilson (480) 348-0343 x100

Email: tracey@timespublications.com Mail: (your business card)

Gilbert Sun News 3200 N. Hayden, Suite 210, Scottsdale, AZ 85251

When they say it takes a village to raise a baby, they really mean it. Ninety percent of the time, if you don’t have a good support system in place, your life will suck. Please trust me when I say to think not twice but 100 times before having kids.

I wanted to warn pet sitters that use a certain national pet sitting service company that there is a scammer targeting us to try and get our money! It starts with a text message from a “Mrs. Cole” from a 713 area code stating she has a friend named “Maria” moving to your town and to please email her to watch her pets. When you email her “friend” you can tell right away that it is a scam by the way she talks. It sounds like she’s from Nigeria. I played along just to mess with them and when I asked where the friend was moving to she avoided the question and then later asked me where I lived. When I said I lived in Seattle and asked where she was moving to, she stated “Seattle.” The scam was that her real estate agent was going to mail me her keys to her house and that her financial institution would be mailing me a check for $250 for the first week plus “extra” money to get her house ready. I told her I knew it was a scam and that I was reporting her. I just wanted to warn everyone out there to be careful!

In regard to Tea Party slandering, the three core principles of the Tea Party are lower taxes, smaller government and a lower national debt. These are all heroic pursuits. I’m a Tea Party member. I’m also in a mixed marriage. Only those easily misled took the bait. How low will the men in justice court go to allow a predator to question the children he’s already hurt physically to damage them for the rest of their lives mentally? You call that justice? He needs to be tarred and feathered and hung and anything else we can think of. What a lowlife he is and so are all the others who want to see the show. How disgusting the American justice

What do you…

THINK?

What happened to America’s public common sense? Stop wasting tax money on college sports. Let it be self-supporting with fan and sponsored donations.

Leave a message:

(480) 348-0343 option 8

Talk about phonies protesting a song by ignorant students. What about hypocritical Congress backstabbing the black president they so openly hate? Get rid of those phonies

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court has become. It just makes you want to throw up.

Well, Joe, how will your deputies judge a marital abuse case after today? I guess there isn’t abuse if there isn’t a body. Run momma run.

Biz Box To Place an Ad:

May 2015

in Congress. Maybe America will have a chance.

S E R V I C E

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Opinion

May 2015

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Community Commentary

What is an override? Schools cannot do it alone BY IRENE MAHONEY-PAIGE

Federal and state education funding covers core curriculum. That means the State of Arizona and the federal government fund basic English, math and science. Communities bear the responsibility for most everything else. School districts depend on the community to “override” those basic funds with a budget increase. Override

funds have enabled our district to provide our students with advanced classes, fine and performing arts, music, foreign language and other elective classes. Our district is A-rated and our schools get A+ recognition. We are proud that our students develop skills to prepare them for a successful future. Studies have consistently reported that Arizona is at the bottom of the list

Gilbert’s school district is A-rated and its schools get A+ recognitiion. Override funds will help the district continue its success.

Mary Lynn’s

nationally when it comes to student funding. Like other communities in Arizona, our district has had to rely on override funds in order to offer students the quality program offerings our community wants and deserves, as well as to provide our employees with competitive salaries. The district’s override expires this year. The lack of an override in 2015-2016 will impact our teacher and staff salaries, advanced placement courses, arts and music, physical education and nutrition, school safety and class sizes. The tax increase to restore a budget override is estimated to be less than $139 annually per homeowner. An investment in education is an investment in one’s home and community, whether or not one has school-aged children. Communities with excellent public schools attract well-educated and financially successful families. Those residents become more involved in the local community and ultimately local businesses and services benefit. Real estate in those areas becomes more attractive and in-demand, which increases property value.

The funds generated through an override have enabled our district to retain the highest quality personnel, offer many different outstanding and award-winning programs, and provide our students with many other valuable and exciting educational opportunities. If you have enjoyed Highland High’s Strolling Strings Orchestra, or been amazed by Campo Verde’s Project Lead the Way or biomedical programs, you have seen what our district has been able to offer with the support of its residents. Irene Mahoney-Paige is the public information officer for the Gilbert Public Schools.

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