Gilbert Sun News - Jan. 2017 by Times Media Group

January 2017

Relentlessly local coverage of Gilbert and our neighboring communities

The Cosmo effect

Isaac Bell, 7, of Gilbert, walks “Reid” at Cosmo Dog Park. More on Page 16.

Mayor’s annual digital address to focus on why residents, businesses choose Gilbert

Gilbert school officials firmly behind all-day kindergarten plan

BY SRIANTHI PERERA

BY PAUL MARYNIAK

As the Legislature begins a new session, funding for all-day kindergarten appears to be unlikely as conservative Republicans raise questions about its value and the absence of standards. Gilbert Public Schools and Higley Unified School District, however, are adamant about its benefits and continue Area schools back all-day kindergarten. to provide it free to parents. Higley has 916 students in kindergarten at a cost of approximately $2,510,250. With normal half-day state reimbursement, the district is required to cover the balance of approximately $1,549,757, said spokeswoman Michelle Reese. The district has about 39 full-time kindergarten teacher positions. “The research is strong that students who attend full-day as opposed to a halfday kindergarten program outperform their peers with their academic achievement and growth. Our students consistently perform at the top of the state, and we believe the full-day kindergarten experience is part of see

ALL-DAY K page 4

A new year has begun, and Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels— who, herself, is new to the position—is continuing with established tradition. She will recap last year’s happenings and preview the coming year during the 2017 digital state of the town, on Tuesday, Jan. 24, at Harkins SanTan Village 16 in Gilbert. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the program begins at 6. Since 2013, Gilbert has hosted a digital state of the town. The annual 20-minute documentarystyle video production highlights the accomplishments of the town during each year, and see

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MAYOR DANIELS page 6

In this behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Gilbert digital state of the town, Patrick Banger, town manager, drives a vehicle while Liz Rohe, digital journalist, videos his efforts.

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ALL-DAY K from page 1

this success,” said Higley Assistant Superintendent Warren Shillingburg. Gilbert Public Schools provides all-day K to 2,129 children, while 19 are enrolled in its only half-day class, at Neely Traditional Academy. The half-day option “will likely continue…if there is enough demand to fill one classroom,” said GPS Superintendent Christina Kishimoto. Kyrene School District also gives parents a half-day option, but the overwhelming number of children are in all-day programs—a sign that parents vastly prefer the all-day version, said Superintendent Jan Vesely. Noting that only six parents opted for half-day kindergarten while 1,570 enrolled in the all-day program this year, Vesely added, “Clearly our community understands the importance of early childhood education. Parents want this kind of education for their young children.” Kishimoto agrees. “The learning standards for kindergarten readiness and subsequently for first-grade readiness have become more rigorous in the past 14 or so years,” Kishimoto said. “Full-day K is so important for early reading success and readiness for Grade 1 learning standards.” GPS covers the difference between state reimbursement for half-day kindergarten and the cost of full day through its operating budget. All-day K has been a political football in Arizona for nearly a decade, even as evidence grows of its importance in early education. Former Gov. Janet Napolitano pushed through state funding in 2007, but the Republican Legislature in 2010 terminated it, deciding to pay only for a half-day program. Numerous school districts have held budget override elections since then to get voter approval for local funding of all-day K. Michael Cowan, superintendent of Mesa Public Schools, the state’s largest district, echoed GPS and Higley school officials in discussing the impact of allday K. “Without additional classroom time for kindergarten under the direction of a master educator, many children will not be afforded adequate time to build foundational learning competencies in reading, writing and mathematics,” said Cowan. Terry Locke, spokesman for Chandler Unified School District, concurred. “We find all-day kindergarten to be vital,” Locke said. “Today’s kindergarten standards have more rigor than in the past. Only 30 percent of our students starting kindergarten come to us with preschool experience. The extra time helps ensure students get off to a strong

Community start to their school experience and have success in future years.” Like GPS, Mesa and Chandler make up the remaining cost of all-day K through their maintenance and operations budgets. “Full-day kindergarten is an important and needed investment,” said Cowan, whose district has 4,500 full-day kindergartners. “Less time is needed to catch up academically deficient students, allowing teachers to focus on grade-level curriculum.” Kyrene voters approved an override that covers 15 percent of the district’s cost. Higley voters also approved an override. “The approved override is truly appreciated because with limited resources, the district may not have been able to continue to offer the full-day kindergarten,” said Gary Holland, Higley director of finance. Although there were hopes that voters’ overwhelming approval of Proposition 123 last year would lead to a restoration of state funding for all-day kindergarten, Republican legislative leaders are already complaining that the state cannot afford its $218-million-a-year price tag. Political observers say that unless the governor throws his support behind it, all-day kindergarten will likely be a nonstarter in budget talks next year. A broad coalition of education and business leaders want all-day K restored, along with another $440 million in restored funding for building maintenance, utility payments and teacher development. Arizona and 33 other states require only half-day kindergarten, while 11 make all-day K mandatory. The rest have no kindergarten mandates. Republican leaders in the Legislature didn’t wait long after the Nov. 8 election to begin signaling their feelings about allday kindergarten. Incoming House Speaker J.D. Mesnard, a Republican whose district covers part of Gilbert and Chandler, told the Arizona Tax Research Association last month that the state not only couldn’t afford it, but that its effectiveness seemed in doubt. “There was research indicating there was a bump in student achievement early on because of full-day kindergarten,” Mesnard said. “But then it sort of diminished or went away entirely later on. So, I think we’re going to have to revisit some of that research to see is this an effective use of our dollars.’’ Incoming Senate President Steve Yarbrough, another Gilbert-Chandler Republican, told the same organization that while all-day K and several other education programs are “all potentially worthy,” the state has no money to pay for them.

Some education and business leaders spoke about the benefits of setting academic standards for all-day K at an Arizona Board of Education meeting earlier this fall. Because there are no learning standards past the required 2 1/2 hours, not all schools set high academic expectations, said state Sen. Steve Smith, a Republican from Pima County. He said some constituents who paid for full-day kindergarten were unhappy. “They played games. It was effectively babysitting time,” Smith said. “They did not have the same teacher as they did the first half of the day.” “For me, as a parent, to want to put my child in all-day K, there had to be some sort of actual achievement and learning going on the second half of the day,” Smith said. Lisa Fink, a parent and board president of Choice Academies charter schools, told the Arizona education board that full-day kindergarten is a waste. She cited a 2014 study by the Washington State Institute for Public Policy that concluded kindergarteners in Washington did not benefit from a daylong program, given its cost. Children “need that play time. They need naps,” Fink said. “All-day kindergarten is a recurring fad. It is not the solution.” Vesely and Kyrene board member John King, a Republican, said Kyrene abounds in proof of all-day kindergarten’s positive impact on young children’s educational development. “The days of naps and cookies in kindergarten are long gone,” Vesely said. “Kindergartners are expected to add and subtract numbers up to 10, count to 100 by ones and 10s; spell simple words phonetically; and describe measurable attributes of objects, such as length and weight. They also are expected to distinguish the shades of meaning among verbs.” “They also are expected to be able to

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write at least three complete sentences by the end of the school year, which means they must also know how to read,” she continued. “The research is clear about the benefits of full-day kindergarten.” She said one study showed “children enrolled in full-day kindergarten performed better in math and reading than their half-day counterparts.” A conservative, King differs with his fellow Republicans in the Legislature. “The most fundamental learning a child at an early age can have is how to read and function socially,” he said. “The value of all-day kindergarten is that it stresses the value of reading and makes for greater success as students.” King believes that all-day kindergarten explains why no Kyrene third-grader failed to meet the new state requirement this year that forces districts to hold back third-graders who could not meet reading standards. Only five third-graders were in danger of not advancing to fourth grade because of those reading requirements, he said. The district worked with them over the summer to ensure that they could pass. “We attribute that to the fact that we can get to them early in their life cycle,” he said. Vesely noted, “There are limits to what can be accomplished in a half day of instruction. A half day allows less time for teachers to incorporate inquiry-led instruction, exploration and hands-on activities into their lesson plans, all important learning opportunities.” Moreover, she said, children in half-day kindergarten “have less time to be with teachers who know how to help them develop and practice social-emotional skills, such as understanding feelings, managing emotions, regulating behavior and developing empathy.” – Cronkite News and Capitol Media Services contributed to this report.

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Series focuses on healthcare advocacy A free community series titled “Empowering Others to be Your Healthcare Advocate in a Crisis” debuts 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 18, at The Falls Event Center in Gilbert. Sponsored by the assisted-living and memory-care facility Savanna House, the series is presented by Gilbert Estate Planning Attorney Becky Cholekwa of Cholewka Law. Cholewka will provide advice on which healthcare documents are specific to Arizona, the difference in types of powers of attorney, as well as the crucial questions to ask when choosing your power of attorney. Savanna House, to open in the spring,

will provide respectful assistance with daily living and specialized memory care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Established in 2010, Cholewka Law represents clients in all areas of estate planning, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, probate and trust administration. The Falls Event Center is at 4635 E Baseline Road. Seating is limited, and refreshments will be provided. RSVP to 480-900-6815 or call for more information. For information on upcoming topics and speakers, contact Terri Werner at WernerTerri@ Savannahouseseniorliving.com.

MAYOR DANIELS from page 1 feature the mayor, council members, town staffers and local business leaders. It also looks to the future. The 2017 theme is “#chooseGilbert.” “This year’s theme is specifically inspired by the Choose Your Adventure book series,” Daniels said. “The video focuses on all the choices that people and businesses have made as they decided to choose Gilbert.” Part of the video is a business update that will feature aerospace leader Orbital ATK, weight-loss product company Isagenix and similar other visionary companies that have chosen to locate in the town. “I would encourage everybody to use the #chooseGilbert as we highlight great things,” the mayor said. The town recently received an upgraded AAA bond rating from Moody’s Investor’s Service, and joined an elite group of municipalities—including Scottsdale and Chandler—with the coveted rating. In addition, Gilbert has a welleducated workforce and recent economic development that includes the plethora of upmarket restaurants that has established, or have plans to build, in the Heritage District. “We have a lot to be proud of. We’ve got a growing business industry, we are proud of the quality of our community. Our residents love the quality of life they have here and are looking for opportunities to engage and we need the public’s help as we continue to plan out for the final buildout of Gilbert,” Daniels said. Daniels was a town councilmember for seven years during former Gilbert Mayor John Lewis’s tenure. When Lewis resigned last July before his term ended to take up a new assignment, Daniels stepped up to finish the final six months of his term.

Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels (left) looks on while her 5-year-old daughter Kate participates in the video being filmed by the town’s digital crew at the mayor’s home.

Thereafter, she ran uncontested in the primary elections on Aug. 30 and began her first full term in January. She said that seeing Gilbert from an “up-close and personal perspective” as well as from “a regional perspective” has been helpful in her new role. “We have so much to be proud of in Gilbert, but we have challenges to overcome. We’re going to work hand in hand with our community leaders and staff and our residents to find solutions to those problems,” she said. Managing growth is at the top of the list, she said, referring to it as “a fantastic problem to have because people want to be here. Managing growth is definitely something that’s a challenge to any

community, just ensuring that we’re always providing high-quality services at the lowest possible cost to our residents. We work hard to do that every day,” she said. Other challenges are related to transportation and infrastructure. “We’ve had several sewer and water main breaks; we have a CIP project that’s in the works to make sure that we address that challenge and make sure that the quality of our infrastructure reflects the quality of our community,” she added. Daniels receives help and encouragement from her spouse, Eric, who works in medical sales, and support from her four children, Ethan, 13, Drew;

11; Ty, 9, and Kate, 5, “who know that they have a role to play, as well,” Daniel said. The children sometimes attend council meetings – just the ones that don’t go on until the wee hours — and the larger community events. “They participate in the parade and we give them assignments to contribute and help in lots of different ways. They rise to the task. They like being part of Gilbert,” she added. “It’s definitely a family interest and there’s definitely a family contribution.” For details of the digital state of the town, visit gilbertaz.gov/departments/ town-hall/state-of-the-town. After Jan. 24, the video will be posted.

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January 2017

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Gift of Adoption expanding into Arizona and giving grants to adoptive parents BY COLLEEN SPARKS

The ways to build a family are as diverse as the people who live in Gilbert and around the country, but they aren’t always easy or free. However, people of all ages, backgrounds and sexual orientations, who want to adopt a child, can often get financial or emotional support from nonprofit organizations, the foster-care system and adoption attorneys. One such organization, the national nonprofit Gift of Adoption, is expanding its reach in Arizona following an event in the East Valley. The Illinois-based non-profit gives grants to help cover costs for the final stage in the adoption process, putting a priority on the most-vulnerable children. “People build their families so many different ways,” said Gilbert resident Susan Perlman, a member of Gift of Adoption’s Arizona board of directors. “Knowing there’s an organization out there that will help complete that journey for you, no matter how you’re building that family, is a huge benefit to a lot of people. “The one thing that really attracted me to this organization is they offer the grants to families regardless of religion, marital status, sexual orientation, age or race,” Perlman added. “A family is a family, period, to me.” She and her husband, Michael Perlman, got their adopted son, Dylan, now 8, when he was a few days old, after going through fertility treatments and trying unsuccessfully to conceive a baby. “From the moment we held him in our arms, we were just sort of awestruck,” Perlman said. “It just always felt like he was meant to be with us.” The Perlmans went through another local non-profit organization to find a baby in Arizona and get help navigating the steps to adoption. Susan, a marketing director for a healthcare company, says she and Michael, a self-employed consultant, were lucky their families helped them pay for the extensive costs of adopting their son. She wishes she had known about Gift of Adoption back then so they could have sought a grant. Gift of Adoption is in the process of forming its Arizona chapter and seeking more board members. The organization says the average cost for a domestic adoption last year was $38,000, while the average cost for adopting a child who was living outside

the U.S. was $42,000. Adoptive parents can face fees to the agencies that help them find a child, legal fees if attorneys are helping them, and paperwork costs and fees to pay for required home visits, where social workers evaluate their homes. Gift of Adoption has given more than $5.4 million to help bring more than 1,800 children to a permanent, adoptive family in the U.S. The organization has given more than $51,000 in grants to help Arizona families adopt 19 children over the last 20 years. Attorneys say adopting a child is a complicated process that varies greatly depending on the potential parents’ desires, the state they live in, whether the child lives in the U.S. or another country, whether they’re related to the child and other factors. States have different adoption laws. “Every single family has a different journey and a different path,” said associate adoption attorney Tiffany Hill of the firm Kathryn A. Pidgeon P.C. in Phoenix. “There are plenty of single individuals who adopt, lots of same-sex couples. “They all make wonderful parents,” Hill added. She said many children adopted through the foster-care Susan and Michael Perlman of Gilbert adopted their 8-year-old son, Dylan, when he was a newborn. system in Arizona are eligible for an adoption subsidy, which visit the potential adoptive parents’ homes, them for the adoption. typically covers the costs of Ross said. “Some do not. Ahwatukee Foothills resident Bettina medical insurance, legal fees, monthly “There is always a mom and dad out there Vance-Johnson, a board member of the maintenance payments and applicable somewhere,” he added. “You have to figure Arizona Gift of Adoption chapter, has special services. out who’s adopting, what the relationship three adult biological children, but she’s More than 100,000 children are waiting is, if any, and where the biological mom and considering adopting a young child. to be placed in a permanent home in the dad are.” “I still feel very young and vibrant,” said U.S., and most of them are living in foster Julie Alvarado of Chandler said she and the 48-year-old Vance-Johnson. “I’m not or group homes, according to National her husband were already raising her steptoo old to say I may still want to nurture a Adoption Center. son when they decided to adopt a twochild and raise child.” People can choose to do a private and-a-half-year-old boy and his one-and-aTo volunteer with or learn more about adoption, going through an adoption half-year-old sister from foster care. Their Gift of Adoption, visit giftofadoption.org/ agency that will match the adoptive get-engaged/arizona-chapter. parents with a child, or even find a child on adopted son, Aaron, is 16 now and adopted daughter, Dominique, is 15. To find out more about adoption their own and go through an attorney to The Alvarados also have an 8-year-old laws and processes, visit the Arizona get them adopted. Department of Child Safety at dcs.az.gov/ Phoenix associate attorney Robert J. Ross biological son. “It was just part of our journey that we services/foster-care-and-adoption, said the amount of time it takes to get a always intended to adopt,” Alvarado said. National Adoption Center at adopt. child adopted can vary greatly. She said Catholic Charities in the Mesa org or National Council for Adoption at “Some adoptions require home studies office offered helpful classes to prepare adoptioncouncil.org. and certifications,” where social workers

Community

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January 2017

Two juveniles identified on video after Gilbert’s Via Sorento fire BY JIM WALSH

Gilbert police and fire investigators have interviewed two juvenile suspects caught on video after a spectacular fire destroyed several buildings under construction in October at the Via Sorento condominiums, near Gilbert and Guadalupe roads. Police located the two male teenagers a couple of weeks ago and interviewed them, said Sgt. Jesse Sanger, a police spokesman. He said the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office requested some additional work by detectives, who are seeking charges and have submitted the case for review. The suspects have not been arrested pending a decision on whether there is sufficient evidence to charge them. “The charges have been filed for review,” Sanger said. “They wanted the investigators to do some follow-up.” Police did not release the names of the suspects, but Sanger said they are the same teens pictured in the videosurveillance footage that was previously released to generate tips. The large fire is estimated to have caused as much as $10 million in property damage at the condominiums, which

were being built by D.R Horton, a major home builder based in Fort Worth, Texas. The blaze, which consumed eight buildings, was hot enough to char a nearby car and melt its tires. After a painstaking investigation, which included a dog used by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms to identify accelerants, authorities ruled the case an arson. They posted a $30,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspects. About 150 firefighters from Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler and the Superstition Fire District battled the blaze on Oct. 15. Firefighters said the blaze spread quickly because the buildings were in the wooden framing stage. Residents of a nearby complex also were evacuated because of high carbon monoxide readings in the area. The Via Sorento fire was second in Gilbert this year at a large apartment complex under construction. The first one, the Civic Center fire, was on April 23. It was a much larger fire at a complex not far from Gilbert Town Hall, destroying 17 buildings. Gary Hildebrandt, a Gilbert Fire Department spokesman, said that the Civic Center fire was accidental.

nstruction worker who was using a torch while installing some roofing.

The two juvenile suspects caught on camera after the Via Sorento condominium fire have been identified.

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January 2017

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Dignity Health and East Valley fire departments partner to provide specialized care to heart patients Patients with heart failure may benefit from a new pilot program now offered at Dignity Health’s East Valley hospitals. The initiative, led by the Mesa Fire and Medical Department, and Dignity Health, aims to improve the rate of emergencyroom readmissions for patients with heart failure. Often when patients with heart failure are discharged and home, they will return to the hospital’s emergency room because they did not have necessary resources in place at home. Discharge instructions can be complicated and overwhelming, or sometimes plans simply fall through, leading patients back to the hospital for help. Called a “community medical unit,” the unique group is made up of mobile paramedics, nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Others to join Mesa Fire and Dignity Health in the new community-service initiative include the Superstition and Queen Creek fire and medical departments, and an organization called Crisis Preparation and Recovery, Inc. “Our goal is really to make sure these patients are ‘back on track’ after being

hospitalized,” said Bruce Bethancourt, MD, chief medical officer for the Dignity Health Medical Group. Thanks to a $12.5-million grant from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, heart-failure patients seen at Dignity Health Chandler Regional Medical Center or Mercy Gilbert Medical Center will be evaluated for the free follow-up program. The patients who qualify by residing in participating areas—Mesa and Apache Junction—will be notified about the program and visited prior to discharge by a specially-trained paramedic who is part of their residential area’s fire department team. Once these patients are home, they will be visited by their designated fire department within 48 hours. “We know people do not like strangers coming into their home. However, they will allow the Fire Department to come in, because they are seen as ‘lifesavers,’” Bethancourt said. During the in-home visits, the community medical unit will help the patients settle in by starting with a medical assessment. Together, the patient and unit member will review medical

records and safe use of medications, discuss immunizations and falls prevention, and work to coordinate any needed outpatient care. The unit can also assist in making doctors’ appointments and writing necessary prescriptions as well as providing home safety inspections. “We are proud to partner with the Mesa, Superstition and Queen Creek

fire departments to provide this service to a population of patients in great need,” Bethancourt said. “These in-home visits are efficient because they allow us to catch and address medical issues promptly, reducing the duplication of efforts between emergency rooms and primary care physicians, and reducing readmission to the ER for our high-risk patients.”

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Dr. Grace Haynes from Gilbert will be the first participant in Avondale-based Catitude Gallery’s new Guest Artist program. An African American family physician and self-taught artist, Haynes’ work reflects her travels in the third world and highlights the culture of those countries. While actively participating in foreign medical missions with her church, Haynes traveled to Liberia, and according to her bio, “felt a strong pull to the land and experienced a profound sense of connection to the people there.” The strong connection may have emanated from her personal connection to the land, having learned later that her ancestors originated in West Africa. Her work celebrates her tribal history.

Dr. Haynes’s work will be on display from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., January 10 through January 28. The exhibit is free and open to the public. The Catitude Gallery and Studio is at 404 E. Western Avenue in Avondale. Details: catitudegallery.org

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Community

January 2017

Community

January 2017

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Local legislative leaders say state income tax abolition not in the cards BY HOWARD FISCHER

Capitol Media Services

Don’t look for the Republican-controlled Legislature to vote this year—or in the near future—to eliminate the state income tax. Incoming House Speaker J.D. Mesnard, whose district includes part of Gilbert, has said he wants to focus on creating a singlerate income tax, collapsing the current system of five tax brackets into one. But it would not technically be a “flat tax’’ because Mesnard proposes to have sufficient tax credits to ensure that those at the bottom of the income scale do not end up paying more. Senate President Steve Yarbrough, another Republican from the district, has a different agenda. In fact, he actually likes the idea that Arizona has an income tax. The reason is that Yarbrough has been a champion of providing dollar-for-dollar state income tax credits to people who contribute to charities as well as to “school choice’’ programs. That includes one where the donated funds are given to parents for scholarships to send their children to private and parochial schools. In fact, Yarbrough runs the Arizona Christian School Tuition Organization, the largest of the groups that benefits from and gives out those credits. No income tax means no tax credits -- and Yarbrough’s operation is out of business.

The reticence by the two top legislative leaders to move toward cutting income taxes could put them on a collision course with Gov. Doug Ducey. He campaigned on a promise of working every year to move the tax rate “as close to zero as possible.’’ And Ducey told Capitol Media Services he remains convinced that lower tax rates are a good thing. “We have to recognize our state is in a competitive situation with places like California, Utah, Colorado, Florida and Texas,’’ he said. “We want to always have a story when we’re talking to companies like Raytheon or Rogers or Google of why we’re a better place to do business,’’ the governor explained. “That brings the jobs that employ our citizens. And that’s what really expands our state budget.’’ And asked specifically about a single-rate tax, Ducey said “anything that lowers taxes, simplifies taxes or flattens taxes is a good idea.’’ Lowering revenues, however, is not what Mesnard has in mind, at least for now. Mesnard said he envisions a “revenueneutral’’ proposal, where the amount of money the income tax brings in under the current system remains the same. And there’s something else that could affect how much Arizona can afford to cut

Arizona Senate President Steve Yarbrough says he likes having a state income tax.

taxes: Whether the state has the money. Yarbrough told the annual conference of the business-oriented Arizona Tax Research Association that current projections translate to approximately $625 million in new revenues during the next three years on

top of the current $9.6 billion budget. “The reality is that formula spending is using up nearly all of our potential increased revenue,’’ he said. Just student growth and inflation will boost the state’s obligation see

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INCOME TAX from page 12 to public schools by $118 million next fiscal year, $134 million the following year and $167 million the year after that. Then there’s the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System, the state’s Medicaid program, where Yarbrough projects an additional $60 million needed this coming budget year, rising to $144 million two years after that. Take all that out, Yarbrough said, and it leaves lawmakers with just $24 million this coming year for any tax cuts or new programs. “Calls for (state-funded) all-day kindergarten, infrastructure needs and paying a higher percentage of university

resident student tuition costs are all potentially worthy efforts,’’ he said. That , he said, makes some proposals already being promoted likely non-starters. What’s behind income tax Mesnard’s plan is the fact that Arizona currently has five brackets. It starts at 2.59 percent for those with an adjusted gross income of less than $10,000 a year for individuals, an income figure that comes after some existing state deductions and credits. The top rate is 4.54 percent for those with adjusted state income of $150,000 or more. What Mesnard envisions is a single rate -- to be determined -- but with built-in

January 2017

provisions for certain deductions and credits to ensure that the changes do not result in a higher burden for those in the lower tax categories. This isn’t Mesnard’s first attempt at compressing the brackets. In 2013 he pushed a measure through the Joint Task Force on Income Tax Reform to take the first step by compressing the categories. The bottom and top rates of 2.59 and 4.54 percent would remain. But the three middle rates which now range from 2.88 percent to 4.24 percent would be compressed to a single 3.90 percent rate. He structured that plan so that virtually no one making less than $100,000 a year would pay more. But even that proved to be

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a non-starter. Sen. Steve Farley, D-Tucson, said he feared all this was designed to promote a true flat tax, with every Arizonans paying the same percentage of his income. And he was not convinced by Mesnard’s assurance that was not the ultimate goal. “Why should we move toward that direction if the pure version of going toward that direction is so reprehensible?’’ Farley asked at the time. And he said if lawmakers are interested in jump-starting the economy they should look at tax relief for those in the lower-half of the income Hundreds scale who are more likely to go out and spend what they have “instead of tank it Thousands of away in a New York investment bank.’’

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January 2017

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Sprawling Rodizio Grill offers a true taste of Brazilian fare, culture BY KATHY KERBY

Rodizio Grill, a Brazilian steakhouse, opened its first Arizona location at Dana Park in the former TQLA location. Billed as “America’s First Brazilian Steakhouse,” the concept originated in Denver in 1995. Co-owner Nick Clayton (who also owns a Rodizio Grill in Milwaukee) is thrilled about the new Mesa location in the sprawling 6,900 square-foot space that seats almost 300. My husband and I were so excited to visit a Brazilian steakhouse for the first time. The upscale restaurant features a gorgeous interior with brick, tile, glass, art, wrought iron, dark wood, leather booths and hanging lights to help set the mood. The Latin colors of black, tan, burnt orange and green and the huge windows looking out on a patio lined with palm trees add to the ambiance. We were warmly greeted by a smiling hostess and then we walked by a colorful, well-stocked bar area to our waiting table where we met Ilse. She took the time to describe the two options for our meal which include the Full Rodizio ($24.99 lunch/$29.99/dinner) or the Salad Bar ($19.99.) The salad bar is out of this world. With more than 50 different selections from quinoa to quail eggs, it was a stunning display of fabulous food. I took a small taste of many of the offerings and my favorites were the caramelized walnut bowtie salad, the crab salad, the roasted coconut pineapple coleslaw and the malagueta chicken salad with spicy chicken celery, carrots and other “secret” ingredients. The coleslaw was the best I have eaten since the roasted coconut and pineapple added a new dimension of flavor to the often ordinary cabbage salad. Seriously, if you are not a meat eater, this salad bar is reason enough to visit Rodizio Grill. When we returned to our table we found little serving dishes filled with fried polenta sticks, cheese bread and bananas fritas. The tasty bananas were sautéed with cinnamon and sugar. As we were enjoying our salads, Clayton dropped by to ask how we were enjoying our meal and told us that he has been with the company for 13 years. He fell in love with the Brazilian people, food and culture when he served a church mission there and his passion is to “make certain real, authentic Brazilian cuisine is being served. When you walk in, we want you to be transported to Brazil.” Beef is the star here and we had already been enjoying watching the efficient (and handsome) gauchos, dressed in black and gray, carry huge spears of meat through the dining area cutting off portions of beef, chicken and pork. Ilse had given us a little spindle with a red cube and a green

cube attached and when we finished our salads we turned it to green which was a sign to the gauchos to bring on the meat. The signature grilled and glazed pineapple was shaved expertly and we used our tongs to grab it and place it on our plates. Then we sampled tender top sirloin cooked to medium rare perfection and seared tri-tip. Next, a gaucho with marinated chicken breast added to our plates although we declined the chicken hearts. After a few minutes, we tasted the linguica sausage and with each serving, the skilled gauchos told us the name of the meat in Portuguese as well as English. Guests also have the opportunity to request rare to well-done and to make requests for additional servings. Flavorful baconwrapped chicken, parmesan pork, glazed ham, garlic beef and sweet and spicy chicken also found a way to our plates. When the beautiful dessert tray ($5 to $8) was presented at our table, we feasted our eyes on the Romeo and Juliet cheesecake, rabanada (warm cinnamon pastry,) crème brule and chocolate torte, but we will save them for our next visit. We definitely enjoyed the taste of Brazil and we will be back to celebrate the culture, hospitality and alegria (joy) of Rodizio Grill.

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Skilled gauchos carve over a dozen different cuts of meat at each table. There is a huge variety of choices at the expansive salad bar.

Neighbors

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January 2017

Potbelly Sandwich Shop opens in SanTan Village Potbelly Sandwich Shop, a neighborhood hangout known for toasty warm sandwiches, hand-dipped milkshakes, made-to-order salads and live, local music, opened a location recently in SanTan Village, Gilbert. The shop employs about 25. Its vision is for customers to feel that the store is its “neighborhood sandwich shop” and to tell others about their great experience. According to the chain’s website, it owes its beginnings to a young couple who owned an antique shop on Lincoln Avenue in Chicago, Illinois in the 1990s. The couple decided to start serving lunch to their curious, collecting customers. Soon, lines reached out the door and around the corner, and the little antique shop was quite the lunchtime getaway. In 1996, a young man named Bryant Keil bought the store and created shops with the same neighborhood feel as the original. Today, there are more than 400 Potbelly Sandwich Shops in neighborhoods around the country. “Many of the families in the

neighborhood have been to the nearby Potbelly Sandwich Shops, however, now, they will have access to our signature sandwiches, shakes, salads and freshly baked cookies in their own backyard,” said Powell Gladden, general manager, in a news release. “We anticipate welcoming in an enthusiastic crowd.” Live music has been a part of the Potbelly experience since the first shop opened in 1977. Neighborhood musicians put a little rhythm into lunch at their shops around the country. Interested performers in and around Gilbert may contact the shop manager to schedule The Potbelly team is ready to craft some toasty an audition. 3131 S. Market St. in SanTan Village, Gilbert. sandwiches in Gilbert. Potbelly Sandwich Shop is 602-313-4298 also considering fundraising Details: potbelly.com from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday requests to support neighborhood non-profit organizations. To through Thursday and 10:30 a.m. to from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with minimum 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Delivery initiate a request, stop by the store. service is available Monday through Friday orders of $25. The shop and drive-through is open

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January 2017

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The Cosmo effect GSN photos by Will Powers and Larry Mangino Since 2006, the Cosmo Dog Park, at Loop 202 and Ray Road in Gilbert, has attracted legions of dog owners, who let their pets frolic to their hearts’ content in the play areas and meet—and make friends—with other equally amenable dogs. (There’s a fenced space for timid canines, too.) Cosmo is named for a beloved K9 of the same name who was the Gilbert Police Department’s first dog. The town estimates more than 600,000 annual visits to the park, some of whom are tourists. The park has features for humans, too, including a tot lot, ramadas for picnics, benches for relaxation, basketball courts and trails.

1. Glenna Evans (foreground) of Gilbert at Cosmo Dog Park with friends. 2. Two-year-old Cyrus and 4-year-old Levi Benninger of Gilbert enjoy “Oak”. 3. “Sadie” shakes pond water off after retrieving the ball. 4. Mary Bauer keeps “Zoe,” a rescue mix, warm. 5. Jazz Nejat is reading “Crime and Punishment” while at the park. 6. Megan Palmer throws a toy for her dog, “Ruger.” 7. Mike Hogue watches as his German shepherd, “Tango,” runs the stairs at Cosmo Dog Park. 8. Nina Rowl corrals Alex, 4, and Chris, 1, while walking in the park.

7 6

Neighbors

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Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers a good spot to watch the game Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers Gilbert, a neighborhood burger joint with a casual and friendly atmosphere, opened recently on the northwestern corner of Higley and Queen Creek roads. The trademark of Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers is its awardwinning hand-formed, halfpound burgers of never-frozen ground chuck that comes in a variety of versions, Juicy Lucy, Pittsburger and Steakhouse Truffle among them, and readily customizable burgers with toppings to suit a patron’s taste. The place also features a large collection of beers, from the favorites to the obscure. The rotating menu offers a selection of more than 130 choices – on tap, bottled or canned. There are five options for “MMMac & Cheese,” sides such as tater tots and sweet tots, four varieties of sliders and a salad selection. The restaurant features comfortable leather booths, butcher-block tables, more than 30 HD flat-screen TVs and a

January 2017

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201 PROGRAM great sound system for watching sporting events. There’s also outdoor seating. Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers is the fastest-growing brand of Square One Concepts, a full-service hospitality management, concept development, design and consulting firm in Scottsdale. This is the Valley’s fifth location. Two more are slated for Glendale and Phoenix. Hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Monday to Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday and Sunday.

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January 2017

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A fitness program should incorporate nutrition education for best results

BY AMY CAMODECA

So there you are, looking in the mirror, one, two, three kids later. Maybe you’re working full time, maybe your full time job is taking care of the home and children. Whatever your responsibilities are, you have one thing in common with so many other busy moms and working women. You look in the mirror and suddenly you just don’t recognize yourself anymore. There doesn’t seem to be any time to take care of yourself, workout, or eat right. What can you do to change that? How do those handful of moms that you admire from afar manage it all and stay in shape with a seemingly boundless amount of energy? Is there hope in midlife to change? Yes! But finding the right program to fit the needs of busy moms and women can be hard to find. Here are a few things to consider when looking for a fitness program to help you take that big step forward and make some significant, healthy lifestyle changes. Mindset: Your body will do whatever your mind sets out to do. The thing is, unless we know why we are doing something, it is hard to get started, much less maintain the motivation necessary for real change. You have to identify

your “why.” Why do you want better health? Why do you want to be in better shape? Why do you want to lose weight or become more lean and strong? Without a why, you can’t have a goal. Without a goal you can’t know where you are going. So really take the time to ask yourself why? Write it down. Put it where you can see it every day. Whether it be to run around and be more present with your kids, or fit into those jeans that made you feel on fire, just have a why! Burst and strength training: The secret is out and we have all been duped. We all used to believe spending hours on a treadmill, elliptical, or stair master were all we needed. But time and research have shown differently. Did you know the average person training for a long distance race or marathon actually gains weight? A combination of strength and burst training has shown to be the most effective weight loss exercise. It also boosts metabolism. Burst or HIIT training is when you do a cardiobased move for an interval of 20-30 seconds, followed by a 10-20 second active recovery stage. When you are looking for an exercise program, look for one that contains both a see

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FITNESS page 19

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FITNESS from page 18

strength (weights) component and a burst or HIIT training component. The best part about these types of exercises is that results are gained with only 45 minute per day sessions and they are perfect for busy moms and women. Nutrition: We all know nutrition is key to being healthy and maintaining a healthy weight. Unfortunately, we again have been duped by advertisers using “no fat” and “low fat” labels. All those processed foods labeled with “sexy” labeling are actually worse for you then something full fat. Those foods are filled with chemicals and preservatives that effect our hormones, which, in turn, leads to weight gain. Whole food diets and unprocessed foods are the safest way to go. This can be very hard when we all live in an “on the go” and “fast-food” society. In order to beat this, find a program that goes beyond just the workouts and also incorporate education around nutrition and meal-prepping. There are numerous resources on-line as well. Take 15 minutes a day to educate yourself on clean, wholefood nutrition. You can work out very hard and be dedicated to your fitness, but if your nutrition doesn’t follow, you won’t see results. Environment: This is the biggest make or break component to any successful fitness program. Environment is key. We are human.

We seek companionship and acceptance, need support and affirmation. You can try to tackle a fitness program on your own, and some people do find success. But most people don’t. If you had people waiting for you, meeting up with you, holding you accountable when that 4:30 a.m. alarm goes off, I can guarantee you, most people rise to the challenge. If no one is waiting for you, no one is there to lend support, celebrate milestones and get through those last reps with you, then it’s a lot harder to get up and go. When looking for a fitness program, find one with like-minded people who are there to support you and share their journey with you, who will call you out when you don’t show up, who can share and educate each other to help everyone reach their goals. So, let’s review: you are looking to make a midlife change as a busy woman, working mom or stay-at-home mom. Is it easy? No. Can it be done with the right mind-set and environment? Yes. Do you need to find an exorbitant amount of time? No, 45 minutes with the right training can get you there. Can you skip out on health nutrition? No, you must focus on both. Amy Camodeca is the owner of Burn Boot Camp in Gilbert. A mom of three, she is also a national fitness competitor. Check out Burn Boot Camp at burnbootcamp. com/gilbert-az.

Join the Women’s Philanthropic Society, Power of the Purse Today! Are you a “hands-on” giver? Passionate and active women gather to volunteer time, talents and treasures in the community with like-minded women, while fundraising for projects that impact health and well-being for women and families in the Southeast Valley. There are many distinctive opportunities to serve and exclusive event experiences. Visit powerofpurse.org to learn more or email connie.johnston@dignityhealth.org or call 480.728.3931

Gilbert Folk Festival needs volunteers

January 2017

Volunteers (ages 18 and up) are needed for the 2017 Gilbert Folk Festival on February 18 to help direct guests, hand out programs and assist stage teams at various locations in downtown Gilbert. The shifts available are two to three hours in length and begin at 5 a.m., with the last shift ending at 4 p.m. Each volunteer will receive a complimentary Folk Festival T-shirt. The festival is a free community music event featuring singer/songwriting talent from all over the state. More than 70 live music acts will perform on multiple stages within walking distance in the historic area. It’s sponsored by Gilbert residents, Cholewka Law and Heritage Financial Strategies. Sign up at http://signup.com/go/9kNhmm. Details: gilbertfolkfestival.com or send an email to info@gilbertfolkfestival.com.

Neighbors

January 2017

www.GilbertSunNews.com

CASA volunteers collect thousands of gifts for local foster children Voices for CASA Children, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to serving foster children in Maricopa County and the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA volunteers) who support them, hosted its annual Jingle & Mingle CASA Holiday Party, where hundreds of CASA volunteers chose from thousands of collected toys, books, blankets, pajamas and more to give to their assigned foster children. Many of the 12,000 abused or neglected children in foster care in Maricopa County have never experienced the joy of a holiday celebration. Voices for CASA Children, CASA of Maricopa County and their partners were keen on showering some joy on these vulnerable children. The donations were provided by several partners, including The Salvation Army, Arizona Blankets 4 Kids and Pajama Program. “This is one of the most cherished

events Voices for CASA Children puts on each year, because it brings together hundreds of caring and dedicated Court Appointed Special Advocates to celebrate a year of effort helping local foster children have a brighter future,” said Robin Pearson, executive director for Voices for CASA Children. “We are so thankful to everyone who donated, and the advocates can’t wait to see the look on the children’s faces when they deliver these gifts to them before the holidays.” see

CASA page 21

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Court Appointed Special Advocates Sally and Richard Harr of Gilbert are among hundreds of volunteers who collected toys, books, blankets and pajamas for their assigned foster child during Voices for CASA Children’s annual Jingle & Mingle in December at El Zaribah Shrine in Phoenix. A CASA volunteer is often the most consistent person in a foster child’s life, and submits a report to the judge before each court hearing with recommendations about the child’s best interest. Currently, there are more than 11,000 children without a CASA volunteer in Maricopa County.

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www.GilbertSunNews.com

CASA from page 20 As an officer of the court, a CASA volunteer visits with the foster child and anyone involved in his or her life, from foster parents, to teachers and doctors. A Court Appointed Special Advocate serves as the eyes and ears of the judge and submits a report before each court hearing with recommendations about the child’s best interest. A CASA volunteer is often the most consistent person in a foster child’s life and is especially valuable because he or she typically focuses on one child or sibling group at a time. Children with a CASA volunteer assigned to their case are more likely to receive services, spend less time in the child welfare system and are less likely to return to foster care. There are far too many children in care, putting continued burden on the child welfare system and creating an even greater need for volunteer advocates, according to the organization. Voices for CASA Children is dedicated to bringing a voice to every abused and neglected child in state dependency and supports expansion of the CASA program in Maricopa County. Voices was established in 2011 and is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. For details, go to voicesforcasachildren.org.

Neighbors

A fresh perspective

About 20 members of the Mesa Art League participated in a plein air experience (painting outdoors) at the Riparian Preserve at Water Park in Gilbert recently. Artists created paintings in watercolor, oil and other media, while photographers focused on the abundant flora and fauna in the urban preserve. Mallards, Albert’s towhees, doves, green-winged teals and other birds kept them company. The league is looking to expand its membership and is inviting artists 18 years and older to apply. Details: mesaartleague.com.

January 2017

Neighbors

January 2017

www.GilbertSunNews.com

January events at the Gilbert Historical Museum 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10: Science Café; Science of Tai Ji. The event celebrates Chinese New Year and the Gilbert and Leshan, China Sister City partnership. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14: Art Workshop; The Art of Chinese Calligraphy, led by instructor Pu Chen. Open to participants of all ages, families are encouraged to participate together. The event celebrates Chinese New Year and the Gilbert and Leshan, China Sister City partnership.

Jan. 10

2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturdays, Jan. 14 and 28: Bluegrass Jam; Pickers and grinners of all ages. Participants are encouraged to bring their acoustic string instruments. No electric instruments, please.

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17: Science Café; led by Chinese medicine and acupuncture instructor Xiangzi Han. The event celebrates Chinese New Year and the Gilbert and Leshan, China Sister City partnership. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28: Garden Workshop; Getting Spring Garden in Shape. In the patio. Open to all ages, families are encouraged to participate together. $10 per person.

10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 28: Art Workshop: Drawing A Cat. Led by the Covino Art Group. Participants of all ages will learn how to draw a cat. Events are offered free of charge except where noted. The Gilbert Historical Museum is at 10 S. Gilbert Rd. Call 480-926-1577 to register.

12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28: Chinese New Year Art Workshop; Rooster Year. Led by instructor Pu Chen. Open to all ages. Families are encouraged to participate. The event celebrates Chinese New Year and the Gilbert and Leshan, China Sister City partnership.

Jan. 28 Jan. 14

Jan. 14&28 Jan. 28

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Neighbors

January 2017

Neighbors

January 2017

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Cheese whizzes

Gilbert woman, husband dip into success with fondue eatery BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Celine and Bill Dixon have been smitten with the Everybody Loves Fondue restaurant that they opened two years ago. Gilbert has, too. “Who doesn’t love melted cheese and chocolate?” Bill asks rhetorically. “We do things like large soft pretzels dipped in cheese. You can’t go wrong with that. We have angel-food cake that you can dip in chocolate. You can’t mess that up.” Fondue is in the couple’s blood. Bill indulged in Swiss fondue, dipping various vegetables, breads and meats in cheese, while living in Switzerland during a mission. As for Celine, she grew up on fondue in Nova Scotia. “Bill lived in Switzerland for a year and a half,” she says. “That’s where he loved to make and love fondue. He speaks German and still tries to incorporate it daily with our daughters. Some of our customers speak German, so Bill speaks it with them.” Food can be ordered a la carte or as complete meals. Meals include small cheese with bread, one dipper and drink, ($6.49); medium cheese with bread, two dippers and a drink, ($9.49) or large cheese with bread, pretzel, two dippers,

meat and drink, ($18.99). A la carte offerings include cooked meat ($2.99),; veggies ($1.49), and fruit ($1.49). Fondue choices are cheddar and swiss cheeses, peanut, and chocolates — white, milk and dark, courtesy of Ghirardelli. Phoenix Magazine recently gave the “best dessert” prize to Everybody Loves Fondue. “We’re pretty proud of the Swiss fondue,” Celine says. “It’s very authentic, with traditional French bread, apples and fresh veggies. We have fun things like taquitos and pretzels and meat—ham, salami, chicken, etc. Customers love the strawberries, pound cake and housemade Rice Krispies treats.” Savory offerings feature tortilla chips, pretzel bites, crackers, mini hard pretzels and potato chips. Sweet treats include graham crackers, Rice Krispies treats, angel-food cake, marshmallows, cream puffs, pound cake, Oreos, Vanilla Wafers, chocolate bars, sugar wafers and frosted animal cookies. For vegetables, diners can choose from broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, celery, jalapenos or pickles. Apples, bananas, pineapple and strawberries are available, as well. The restaurant is untraditional, just

like the owning couple. Celine was living in Canada when Bill approached her online via a dating site. They traveled to each other’s hometowns before Celine moved to Gilbert to marry Bill four years ago. “I think I was ready to get married and move on and start a new chapter and begin an adventure,” she says. “It was a bittersweet move, though. I knew I would miss my job and life there.” The Dixons didn’t have restaurant experience before opening the successful Everybody Loves Fondue, at Higley and Guadalupe roads. Celine’s background is in teaching physical education at a French school in Alberta. For 18 years, Bill worked for

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Empire Cat, which offers used machinery to clients across the United States and Mexico, as well as Caterpillar products. “He’s the one with the guts,” he says. “He’s the one who’s brave and said, ‘Let’s just do it. Let’s make it happen.’ We’re creative and we make it work and we work together. He’s enjoyed it, too.” The difference between working as a teacher and in a restaurant is thrilling. “I do enjoy being my own boss, being creative and working with Bill,” says Celine, who describes herself as Canadian through and through. “It doesn’t feel like a job when I’m working with Bill. It’s fun to supply a venue where people are entertained, enjoying the food and they want to come back and tell their friends. It’s very rewarding.

“I’ve learned that I could do ‘scary’ things. Five years ago, thinking of opening a restaurant would seem so overwhelming and crazy. But you can do hard things. I could juggle so many things—meet deadlines, provide fondue to large parties. We can push ourselves and we can get out of our comfort zone.” Celine also manages to run every day, care for her stepdaughters, 17-year-old Ryan and 15-year-old Sierra, and teach piano. Bill sees Everybody Loves Fondue expanding nationwide. After all, Celine says, he’s “pretty ambitious.” Celine and Bill call the whole concept their greatest achievement. “Who would have thought that fondue could be fast in any way and be delicious and fun, and fun for the whole family? It works to serve fondue like we do: cheese, chocolate and the dippers. Everything is fresh. Oh my gosh, it’s so cool.”

Neighbors

www.GilbertSunNews.com

January 2017

Mayor Daniels presents ‘Spirit of Giving Award’ to animal lover At a recent Gilbert Town Council meeting, Mayor Jenn Daniels presented the seventh annual 12k’s of Christmas “Spirit of Giving” award to Gail Majors. Sponsored by Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, the award recognizes volunteers in the community who give their time and resources to help animals. Majors has dedicated her efforts to helping kittens. Majors takes in kittens from Maricopa County Animal Care & Control, many just days old, starving, ill or injured, and fosters them. She cares for them until they are big and strong enough to find a forever family. Some are so tiny that they need to be bottle-fed, while others need special medicine. She provides their necessities such as food, medicine, litter and toys to help them flourish. She trains them to use the litter box and helps socialize them, even involving her neighbors, which sometimes leads them to adopt the kittens. Majors also involves her neighborhood kids in the creatures’ lives. This helps the kittens learn

how to become loving pets, while the children learn that pets are not disposable. To smooth the adoption process, Majors creates an introduction card for each kitten that describes its personality and preferences—a great way to introduce them to their permanent families. Since 2008, Majors has cared for 178 kittens, and the majority has been saved so they can be adopted. She has also been able to engage other organizations to help the animal control agency; for example, a Bunco group adopted it as its charity of choice for Christmas in 2015. “Majors claims that she is just a small cog in a big wheel. But we see her as one who has really made a difference not to just the lives of these helpless kittens, but in her community,” said Kathleen Toupkin of FieldWorks Events & Marketing Inc., which organizes the 12k’s of Christmas event. The annual December celebration features a large pet adoption feature, and incorporates the participation of about 20 animal rescue groups.

Darryl Toupkin (from left), of 12k’s of Christmas; Brian Sexton, community-relations manager at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority; “Spirit of Giving” recipient Gail Majors, and Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels recognize volunteers during a Gilbert Town Council meeting. Majors was honored for her work in caring for abandoned kittens.

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January 2017

Their whimsy is not ﬂimsy

Neighbors

www.GilbertSunNews.com

New business a real-life faerie tale for a couple of long-time friends BY SRIANTHI PERERA

Cherie Scott of Gilbert and Ann Videan of Mesa were friends for more than 30 years before they became entrepreneurs in whimsy. Scott, an artist, sculpts colorful faerie portals. Videan, a writer, creates stories based on the imaginary faerie that would inhabit Scott’s little clay dwelling. Their business, which employs their complementary talents, appropriately is Absolutely Wild! Enchanted Faerie Portals & Other Whimsy. “It’s been overwhelmingly positive,” Videan says of the public’s response to their quaint home décor, sold mostly online. From word of mouth, the pair received orders to create six custom faerie tales and portals, even before their website was ready and the venture officially launched. They have received ideas for new products. Most of their clients are female, but there have been requests from males. Two faerie portals were purchased by customers in England; hence, they tag their business as “international.” Besides brightening up a staid corner

at home and providing a fantastic conversational ice-breaker, Absolutely Wild! has a charitable arm. Purchases go toward developing programs to support emerging young writers with internships, scholarship funds, workshops, tutoring and professional-networking opportunities. “We are thankful for all of the support of so many people who have encouraged us on this magical journey...to create with our hands, our words and our passion,” Scott says. “We plan to share our success with young writers of all ages, advocating

Cherie Scott of Gilbert (at left) and Ann Videan of Mesa have yielded to fantasy and created Absolutely Wild! Enchanted Faerie Portals & Other Whimsy. The business creates colorful faerie portals from clay and accompanying stories related to the imaginary faerie that inhabits it. GSN photos by Cheryl Haselhorst.

the power of creativity.” Scott and Videan have marketing and communication backgrounds and long years of working in the corporate arena, which they left to create their own marketing businesses. They noticed a dearth of good guidance for young writers.

“We were looking for outlets where we could encourage young writers,” says Scot, “because, arguably, creative writing is the foundation for writing anything.” “It affects so many facets of life, and if see

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FAIRIES from page 26 you can learn that young, you’re way ahead of the game,” Videan adds. Videan has two books to her credit: “Rhythms and Muse” and “Song of the Ocarina,” the first book in her Delfaerune Rhapsody series, a young-adult fantasy trilogy. The second book inspired the pair to develop their business. Scott read the novel, and was inspired by its faery characters, tall, wingless and musical. She sculpted a wee portal and presented it at her friend’s birthday. Videan responded with an equally creative “thank you” note about its supposed occupant. Scott was touched that Videan took the time to write her a personalized story. The incident sparked an idea that was honed over a great many cups of tea, lengthy chats and giggles, they said. “In our silliness, we just started brainstorming about where it could go and what it could be, and it just evolved,” Scott says. The quest to help young writers was always in the background. The faerie portals may be personalized, requiring “the keeper of the portal” to answer a questionnaire, or customers may

Absolutely Wild! Enchanted Faerie Portals & Other Whimsy Custom faerie portals with personalized, one-of-a-kind faerie’s tales and original faerie portals with themed faeries’ tales. Also, faerie portals coloring book with writing prompts, packs of coloring note cards, and themed Faeries’ Tales. Event: Inaugural exhibit runs through January 25 at Dog-Eared Pages Used Books, 16428 N. 32nd St., #11 in Phoenix. A special reception at Dog Eared Pages, hosted by Absolutely Wild!, is scheduled for 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 12. Details: fae@absolutelywild.net or visit absolutelywild.net

purchase one that’s already themed and created. Scott and Videan create them in a cargo trailer that’s parked in Scott’s backyard or driven to Colorado, where Scott summers. They collaborate and one product doesn’t necessarily come before the other. “One of the reasons we have this trailer is that we can sit and she can sculpt,” Videan says. “And I can write. And I can say: ‘Can you make a pig, because I need to put a pig in the story?’ Or, she’d say, ‘I’m inspired to make stars, can you put those in the story?’ “We sort of work off of one another to come up with the creativity. And we have such a good time doing that.” “I noodle it, she noodles it and then we come together,” Scott says. But it’s not always easy to come up with a story based on people’s preferences. That’s where the creativity sets in. For example, one client wanted a portal based on Thailand, sunflowers, pigs and Mexican art. “You’re thinking, how in the world am I going to do a story about that?” Videan said. The end product is a story about a sunflower field in Thailand that she researched and found online. “I made the pig like a Mexican porcelain pig that comes alive,” she says. “It was very fantastical.” Videan ends her stories with a compendium of facts, so it’s not completely mystical. “I do a lot of research. … You’ll see facts about where we came up with names, that there actually are sunflower fields in Thailand. So it keeps it really real,” she says. Despite the quaintness of their endeavor, the friends are down to earth about the chances of their business making it good. “We are having so much fun, the conclusion is whatever happens, happens. Our first goal is maybe to break even,” Scott says. “And help some writers.” “It’s really all about promoting inspiration, especially in kids,” Videan says.

Having Fun, Helping Others! Get plugged into Gilbert Gilbert Rotary Invites you to join us for Breakfast Our Treat! No Reservation Required Every Thursday 7 a.m. at the Egg I am 3321 E. Queen Creek Road, Gilbert, AZ For more information call 480-207-6473 Learn how to make friends, build relationships and give back in Gilbert.

January 2017

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January 2017

Help us fill in the map! W

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you would like to see on the map, including local landmarks, businesses serving our community and other relevant items to mapit@gilbertsunnews.com.

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January 2017

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January 2017

Highland High agriculture teacher snags national award for unique safety lesson Curtis Willems, agricultural educator at Highland High School, is amog six nationwide who received the National Association of Agricultural Educators Ideas Unlimited Award at the NAAE annual convention in Las Vegas in December. It can be difficult to realize the dangers of working with machinery and tools with moving parts while in the classroom without a visible demonstration. Willems uses simple tools, just a yardstick and a reaction time chart, to create a “safety stick.” It is applicable to any safety lesson about tools or equipment a person could accidentally get struck by, caught in, cut by, or fall from. Students are using math skills as well to calculate circumference, rotations per minute, or feet per second, to understand human reaction time and equipment power. Implementing Willems’ safety stick is simple. Students measure reaction time by having one person drop the safety stick vertically while a second person catches the stick. Students can see the difference in their reaction times

Curtis Willems

when the scenario is repeated when they are distracted, anticipating the drop, or completely unprepared. This relates directly back to how accidents are unpredictable and can happen at any time. This lesson is also applicable to adults in workplace settings where equipment and machinery are used. Willems uses this lesson to help

students fully understand how they must take safety precautions in the shop. Students can calculate the speed of a rotating tool, such as the cutting wheel of a grinder, and compare it to the measured reaction time found in the stick dropping demonstration. Giving students a tangible example of potential ways to be injured while working makes them appreciate

safety protocols that can be overlooked by young, inexperienced workers. Each of the six regional Ideas Unlimited winners was recognized at the NAAE convention in Las Vegas. National Geographic Learning | Cengage Learning sponsors the Ideas Unlimited Award. NAAE is the professional association for agricultural educators. Its mission is “professionals providing agricultural education for the global community through visionary leadership, advocacy and service.” The NAAE office is located in Lexington, Ky.

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Business

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Crafter’s market with a family feel is Agritopia’s latest venture BY MITCHELL ATENCIO

Barnone, a crafter’s market in Agritopia, is the newest venture in Gilbert from Johnston and Co. The Johnston family, of Johnston and Co., is a staple of the Gilbert community. Joe Johnston founded Agritopia, Joe’s Real BBQ, Joe’s Farm Grill and Liberty Market in old-town Gilbert. Barnone is on Ray Road and Higley Road, on the same property as Joe’s Farm Grill and The Coffee Shop. The crafter’s market boasts 12 businesses, including two restaurants, an on-site microbrewery and on-site brewery specializing in fermentation. Barnone’s name comes from the metal Quonset in which it is located. The Quonset was built with melted down WWII airplanes and used by the Johnston family in the 1950’s as a barn storing the supplies for the farming family. “For us, Agritopia was our family farm,” said William Johnston, a business manager and part of the development team at Johnston and Co., and son of Joe Johnston. “To see what it is now and add this newest component to it, we just are super, super blessed to be able to do these kind of things and be involved in this.” Two of the businesses at Barnone sit outside the Quonset. Garage East will experiment with fermentation, but their main focus will be Arizona wine. The Farm Store is a small shop that is stocked with produce from Agritopia and other local farms. Inside the shop is a shelf full of cook books and gardening books, each donated to Johnston and Co. The checkout is self-serve. Inside the Quonset are the other 10 shops, including two restaurants, an American-beer microbrewery, flower shop, letter press and design shop, gunsmith shop, a salon, an engineering studio, a collaboration and meeting space/assembly space for engineering creations and a wood design shop. “One of the things that is really important to us is letting people see how people’s hands can create something really special,” William Johnston said. “For us, every tenant in here uses their hands … They’ve brought that creation to the forefront for people to observe.” Barnone is first and foremost for the craftsmen in each shop. Every store owner and every manager at Barnone has no plans to expand, hire on many employees or do anything but focus on their craft. “Our basic purpose for this is to kind of create a space for people who want to stay small and do their thing and not become managers of a process but actually do a process,” Joe Johnston said. “We have a very strong sense of stewardship of our talents and also being

The name of Barnone is intentionally vague, according to its chief visionary Joe Johnston. Its purpose, however, is straightforward—to create a space for people who want to stay small and develop their craft.

Final Assembly is one of the 12 crafters at Barnone, in Agritopia.

a blessing to the community.” Four of the 12 shops are run by members of the Johnston family, and each family member brings a passion behind the work they are doing. Joe’s son James owns Fire and Brimstone, a brick-ovenbased eatery; Joe’s brother Steve owns Johnston Arms, the gunsmith shop; and Mark, Steve’s son, owns Prickly Pear Paper, the letter press and design shop. Of course, the engineering studio, Johnston Machine Co., is owned by Joe, himself.

“For us as a family, it’s really important because we’re able to not only have return investment in the project but—it’s more important that we’ve created a space for our family to come together and work together,” William Johnston said. On opening day, the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, the community showed up in full force to experience Barnone. Nancy Nighswonger, a Chandler resident, said she has been looking

forward to opening day since Barnone was announced. She said that the focus on Arizona local is the biggest appeal to her. Jenna Tamburrelli, a Gilbert resident, said the appeal to her is also the local element, but focused on the makers rather than the product. “It’s all local people and handmade,” Tamburrelli said. “I love that about it.” Tamburrelli said she will likely frequent Barnone weekly. “My son goes to school in the neighborhood and we live right down the street, so it’s an easy place to just hop in, have some pizza, grab a beer, do a little shopping and support all the local makers,” Tamburrelli said. “I might even change my hairstylist and start coming here.” If you’re unsure about how to pronounce Barnone, you aren’t alone. The name of Barnone is intentionally vague, according to Joe Johnston. “I call it ‘Bar None’ and a lot of our Italian customers call it ‘Bar No Ne’,” Joe Johnston said. “(Barnone) is one of those places that’s hard to define. Therefore, we intentionally want it to be an ambiguous name and ambiguous pronunciation. So I’m glad you call it ‘Barn One’ and I’m glad I call it ‘Bar None.’”

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Business

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January 2017

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Gateway Mini-Storage LLC sold recently for $14 million, the third-highest price recorded for a single Arizona self-storage property.

The sale of Arizona self-storage investment properties continues to hit all-time highs. Gateway Mini-Storage LLC, 5750 S. Power Rd. in Gilbert, recently closed for $14 million. NAI Horizon Senior Vice President Denise Nunez exclusively marketed the property on behalf of the seller, Circle G Property Development of Gilbert. Nunez also secured the buyer, a national selfstorage real estate investment trust. The price is the third-highest recorded for a single Arizona self-storage property. “These Class A facilities are rare finds,” Nunez said is a media release. “Well situated in one of the fastest growing communities in the United States, Gateway Storage, which operated as an Uncle Bob’s Self Storage, was acquired by one of the largest publicly traded REITs in the country.” At the time of sale, the Class A

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Institutional-quality facility comprised 92,855 net rentable square feet with 669 self-storage units. A Phase III expansion is under construction to add approximately 21,575 additional net rentable square feet. The addition is estimated to be completed in the first quarter of next year. “The timing was right for the partners to maximize value given the low cap rate and record high valuation market environment,” Circle G CFO John Hartman said. Established in 1992, NAI Horizon is a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and management firm serving Arizona through its offices in Phoenix and Tucson. In 2015, NAI Horizon became one of the few broker-owned and operated full-service commercial real estate firms in Arizona. Details: naihorizon.com.

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January 2017

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Earthworks Environmental expands and adds staff to its Gilbert office Gilbert-based Earthworks Environmental LLC has expanded its operations to Florida and added two employees at its Arizona office, Principal Cherie Koester announced. Mark Hubbard will run the Orlando/Tampa/Jackson, Fla., office as a Lead Compliance Manager. Hubbard will be responsible for Storm Water Pollution Prevention (SWPP) manual preparation, notice of intent/notice of termination filing, SWPP program management, site inspections, permit compliance assistance, construction general permit applications, street sweeping, and site clean-up. “We are thrilled about our service expansion into Florida,” Koester said. “Mark has exemplary skills in regulatory interpretation, consulting and customer service. He will be a great addi-

tion to the Earthworks Environmental family.” Hubbard will provide National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System/SWPP consulting services in Florida for commercial and residential development. It is among the services Earthworks offers in Arizona. According to Koester, the need is even greater in Florida due to the wetlands, sensitive waters, and massive growth of development. The amount of rain Florida receives causes storm water issues. “We expanded into Florida due to client request and will continue to do so for our clients and the continued growth of Earthworks,” Koester said. Hubbard, a native of Warwick, R.I., lives in Mesa. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Biola University in

California and a Master of Science degree in environmental management from the Fulton School of Engineering at Arizona State University. In other personnel moves: --Brooks Morse joined the company as Compliance Manager in the West Valley. --Travis Fern was promoted to Lead Compliance Manager in Arizona. --Madison McMain joined the Gilbert office as Administrative Assistant. Earthworks Environmental services include storm-water pollution prevention, dust control and construction-safety compliances. The firm primarily serves land developers, vertical developers, commercial construction, and land holding companies. Details: earthworksenvironmental.net.

Earthworks Environmental’s Mark Hubbard heads Florida office.

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Business

January 2017

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The Crepe Club opens at SanTan Village Gilbert has a new spot for those looking to satisfy their craving for crepes. The Crepe Club opened its second restaurant, at the SanTan Village, offering a menu of sweet and savory crepes, fresh-baked French pastries and French-inspired dishes. Brothers Karim, Fares and Omar Tarabichi started The Crepe Club as a food cart on the ASU Main Campus two years ago. The crepes were so popular they soon had two carts and a walk-up window at ASU. They opened their first “brick and mortar” restaurant in Phoenix last year at the Biltmore Fashion Park in Phoenix. “We have been life-long fans of crepes,” Fares Tarabichi said. “We’re so happy our guests have loved them as much as we have.” The Crepe Club will officially celebrate the new Gilbert restaurant with a grand opening from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 6. The public is welcome to join as the Tarabichis cut the ribbon on the new location and share samples of their crepes, pastries and drinks. San Tan Village near the Harkins Theaters at 2268 E. Williams Field Rd. Open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. thecrepeclub.com

Brothers Karim, Fares and Omar Tarabichi recently opened a second brickand-mortar location of their successful restaurant, The Crepe Club, in Gilbert’s SanTan Village. The trio began the venture as a food cart on the ASU Main Campus two years ago. The crepes include savory varieties, such as the Chicken Florentine and Caprese, and the sweet ones, such as S’mores Nutella and Biscoff Cookie Spread.

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Paul’s Ace Hardware celebrates 60 years Sixty years ago, a 36-yearold valley resident, Paul E. Dauwalder, purchased an existing Scottsdale Hardware at Scottsdale and Thomas roads. His family talked him into putting his name on the building and Paul’s Scottsdale Hardware was established. Now, three generations later, the company has grown to six stores serving the four Valley communities of Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Tempe and Gilbert. The chain is now owned by Dauwalder’s grand-daughters, Julie Buchkowski and Tricia Dauwalder-Luna. “Sixty years is a phenomenal milestone for us,” said Julie Buchkowski in a news release. “We have been a part of these neighborhoods for so many years and we want to thank all of our valued customers for their continued support. Their

January 2017

Gilbert fixture Flancer’s freshens its breakfast offerings

commitment to Paul’s is both humbling and satisfying and it continues to push us to be the best hardware stores around. “It has always been our mission to find solutions for our customers and it has been an honor to offer our customers a more personal kind of helpful when completing their home maintenance tasks. We look forward to another 60-plus years of serving the residents of our communities,” she further stated. Paul’s Ace Hardware has the following locations in the East Valley: Gilbert: 1927 E. Baseline Road; 480-539-5563. Tempe: 1153 W. Broadway Road; 480-966-1791 and 929 E. Broadway; 480-968-4544.

After 16 years, Flancer’s Gilbert and Mesa restaurants are offering a freshened breakfast menu. “In order to keep with our truly homemade traditions, we are proud to offer some exciting items you may not be able to find anywhere close,” said Jeff Flancer, owner and founder of the restaurants. “We are taking the road less traveled.” Flancer’s breakfast hours are 8 a.m.-11 a.m., Friday-Sunday. Among the new offerings is a breakfast burrito on a homemade tortilla, topped with New Mexican red or green chile sauce. Flancer lived in New Mexico in the 1990s and had a café in Santa Fe for nine years. Among the things that Flancer misses most is New Mexican red and green chile sauce. “We are buying our chile from Hatch, New Mexico,” Flancer said. “Our red chile is special

ordered for our use. I am so pleased we are able to get this quality product from the land of some of the best chiles on earth.” Flancer’s also has introduced a twist on eggs benedict. The English muffin gives way to Flancer’s homemade, freshly baked biscuit, topped with eggs and smothered with New Mexican red or green chile sauce. Flancer’s also has a chorizohash breakfast with eggs, potatoes and biscuit, as well as avocado toast, with eggs, tomato and cheese on homemade baguette bread. In addition, the homemade hash browns are steam cooked and seasoned, and then sautéed on the grill top to a crispy golden brown. For those in a hurry, Flancer’s now serves an egg-and-cheese biscuit and handheld breakfast

burrito for the Friday-morning commute. Flancer says he wants his restaurants’ breakfasts to be great and fast. “We are working hard to get our average ticket time in six to eight minutes, some in less time, but most breakfasts taking less than 10 minutes,” he said. “I am working hard with my chef and cooks to really produce a great product in a short time frame.”

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Gilbert native’s Soda Shop becomes a popular destination for families, students BY NIKITA NAIK

The Soda Shop, where customers can get fancy carbonated drinks, has found success with its second location. It’s attracting more families and students in the Gilbert and Mesa areas. The second location opened this past summer at the corner of Gilbert Road and Brown Road in Mesa. This new location is less than one mile away from Mountain View High School, which makes it a hangout for students after school. Dylan Roeder, 25, one of the owners and founders of The Soda Shop, grew up in Gilbert and went to Highland High School with his now business partner Chase Wardrop. He said that growing up in Gilbert, he always wanted somewhere that he could hang out and imagined The Soda Shop as that place. The first location, at 4311 E. Baseline Road in Gilbert, opened in September 2015, and Roeder said it was an instant go-to-place. The two partners decided to expand to the new location in Mesa sooner than later. The shop mixes sodas with unusual flavor combinations. The Happy Camper blends root beer,

toasted marshmallow syrup and Half & Half. The Waikiki is Coke, pineapple and coconut cream. The Shark Attack features Sprite, lemonade and blue raspberry syrup and is topped off with a gummy shark. The fun flavors and homey locations are aimed at students and families, Roeder said. “We would have to sit and think, what can we do to make the experience more enjoyable and how do we set ourselves apart,” said Roeder. “There’s so many people competing for that same time with a customer and we know that product pays the bills but the environment of the location also goes hand in hand.” Emma Nelson, an employee at the Gilbert location, says that being a part of The Soda Shop team is more than just working at a place that makes fancy sodas. She says that the owners do their part in making sure their customers get the best experience during their visit. “When I first got hired, the owners made sure to tell me this: anybody can make drinks but not everyone can make people want to come back just by how the vibe is,” said Nelson. “They just want

to make sure that people feel loved here.” Roeder said that the road to a successful business had its challenges, including learning how to be a boss. “We knew we couldn’t do it ourselves and that we needed a team and obviously if a team is there a job is there even if they enjoyed it,” said Roeder. “We want to make sure the shop sustains them Karigan Poulson manages The Soda Shop location in Mesa. too. That’s where it financially gets scary. The brand is still new The night of a big school dance, to Arizona and so is the McAllister said the two owners of The concept.” Soda Shop “let us all go. They were the Lauren McAllister, an employee at ones who stepped in. They worked that the Mesa location, said most of The night while we went to the dance!” Soda Shop’s employees are high school The Soda Shop is located at 4311 E. students. The owners are flexible when it Baseline Road Suite 101A in Gilbert (480comes to outside activities because they 794-1094) and 2010 E. Brown Road in want their employees to get the best out Mesa (480-794-1054). of their high school years.

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January 2017

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Gilbert taxpayers now must make appointments at E. Valley Internal Revenue Service office Gilbert taxpayers in need of service at the East Valley Internal Revenue Service Taxpayer Assistance Center now must call to schedule an appointment. However, they first should see if their answer is available at IRS.gov. They may be able to resolve their tax question by visiting the IRS website, eliminating the need to be seen at the Taxpayer Assistance Center. The IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center that serves Gilbert and other East Valley taxpayers is at 1818 E. Southern Ave. in Mesa. A similar facility in Glendale, at 7350 W. Camino San Xavier , now operates by appointment only, as well. The IRS has begun taking calls for appointments at both. Taxpayers requiring assistance should call the special toll-free number, 1-844545-5640, IRS representatives may help resolve

the issue over the phone or schedule an appointment at IRS TAC if face-to-face service is needed. In most cases, callers are able to resolve their tax issue without having to travel to a TAC, which can sometimes be a significant trip. Taxpayers should always check IRS. gov for days and hours of service as well as services offered at the location they plan to visit. The IRS moved to an appointment service at the East Valley office as part of an ongoing effort to eliminate lines and reduce frustration for taxpayers with more complex tax matters, who require inperson tax help. Studies show that many taxpayers visit an IRS office to get a tax transcript, make a payment, resolve a notice, obtain a form or publication or ask about their refund. Many of these issues can be resolved at IRS.gov.

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taxpayers can set up installment payments for taxes owed. • Where’s My Amended Return?: Taxpayers can track the status of their amended return. • Answers to tax-law questions: Direct links to helpful resources to answer many tax questions. • All IRS Forms and Publications: Find and download current tax forms, instructions and publications. • Form 2290, Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax Return Preparation: Truckers do not need to visit an IRS office to file Form 2290. They can electronically file and pay online any tax due. Approved providers for Form 2290 can be found on the 2290 e-file partner’s page. Generally, truckers who e-file can receive their IRSstamped Schedule 1 electronically minutes after e-filing. They can print their Schedule 1 and provide it to their state Department of Motor Vehicles without visiting an IRS office. For additional information on available services, see Publication 5136, the IRS Services Guide.

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January 2017

Gilbert school districts pondering mandatory CPR training BY PAUL MARYNIAK

Imagine having a heart attack when you’re out in public amid a group of strangers and everyone runs away. Now you have some idea why Arizona is requiring mandatory cardiopulmonary resuscitation training as a high school graduation requirement for all public and charter schools by 2019-20. While several East Valley school districts are already laying the groundwork for the training, both Gilbert districts are still studying it. “We have not set this up at this time for our students, but are working to meet the state requirement for 2019,” said Michelle Reese, spokeswoman for the Higley Unified School District. “We are not taking any steps at this time toward CPR training until the legislation is signed and confirmed to move forward,” said Gilbert Public Schools Superintendent Christina Kishimoto. “We have had internal conversations about what this will require for implementation.” Mesa plans to start next school year and Chandler Unified anticipates starting it a year ahead of the

deadline. “Looks like a good fit for the mandatory health class,” said Chandler spokesman Terry Locke. In Mesa, the state’s largest school system, spokeswoman Helen Hollands said hands-only CPR will become mandatory next school year and will be taught in all physical education classes. “All students must have one PE credit (two semesters) to graduate,” Hollands said. The Tempe Union High School District governing board recently approved a policy that will guide the CPR program’s development over the next two years. Tempe Union Superintendent Kenneth Baca told the board the district still has a long way to go. “Where it’s going to be taught, how will we keep track of students who had training in middle school, how we’re going to ensure it’s going to be done properly—those are things we still have to work out,” Baca said. The law is aimed at making bystanders rescuers. It states that by July 1, 2019, charters and districts must “provide public

see

CPR TRAINING page 42

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CPR TRAINING from page 41 school pupils with one or more training sessions in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, through the use of psychomotor skills in an age-appropriate manner, during high school.” The law made Arizona the 32nd state in the union to mandate CPR training for high school students. That means that by the time it takes effect, 61 percent of all high school students in the country will be exposed annually to such training, according to the Sudden Cardia Arrest Foundation. The foundation is aiming for 100 percent. “We believe this widespread implementation of CPR training has many benefits to high school students and the broader U.S. public,” the foundation stated. “High school students are wellpositioned to improve rates of bystander CPR initiation in the United States, and their engagement could reduce deep disparities in regional rates of survival of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest through early initiation of bystander CPR,” it said. In other words, the foundation believes that people who are trained in CPR won’t hesitate to administer the life-saving technique. The foundation wants all the states to mandate CPR training in more than 37,000 high schools. It noted that a common assumption is that “mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is the major barrier to bystanders performing CPR.” But a far more common reason, it said, is “panic and discomfort of the bystander.” “Although not proven, it is likely that bystanders trained in CPR are more likely to act and act competently, for example, with the appropriate depth of chest

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“The instruction provided must include the hands-on practicing of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, except for students who are enrolled in an online school.”

compressions and with less hesitation,” it said. Advocates of mandatory CPR training of high school students emphasize that students are more likely to encounter out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims in shopping malls or among family members at home than among their peers. “Thus, learning CPR is mostly a selfless act both for the individual high school student and for high school students as a group,” the foundation said, stating that aspect may actually reduce resistance to receiving training. A person who has a heart attack outside a hospital has a 95 percent chance of

getting help if he or she is in the presence of someone trained in CPR. “I think this is a good idea,” Tempe Union board member Michelle Helm said of the new state law. Baca noted that the law does not provide any funding for schools to implement the training and that the state has yet to set out a reporting system. “It’s one of those mandates we’re going to figure out as the years pass by,” he told the board. The Tempe Union policy notes that part of the CPR training might involve homework and that it “shall be based on the most current national evidence-

based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation.” The instruction must be administered by a certified trainer if students would receive a certificate upon successful completion of the class. “The instruction provided must include the hands-on practicing of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, except for students who are enrolled in an online school,” the policy states. Instruction could come from a wide range of people, including paramedics, police officers, representatives of the Red Cross or American Heart Association or others. Students will be able to get excused from the requirement if a parent objects, if they have disabilities that make it impossible for them to administer CPR or if they’ve already been trained. The foundation said another reason for mandating COPR training for high school students is the disparity in heart attack survival rates between wealthier communities and poor ones. “It is precisely in large, inner-city neighborhoods and poorer US counties where the impact of cardiac disease is disproportionately felt and in these same populations where CPR should be prioritized,” the foundation said.

Despite brain surgery, Gilbert Dawgs youth participates in football national championships The Gilbert Dawgs, with the help of defensive end, Patrick, became state champions this year. They even made it all the way to the national championships. The team even raised enough money – $60,000 – to travel and compete in the nationals in Florida in December and returned as 4th place national champions. The accomplishments are more noteworthy because of Patrick’s accident in December 2015. The 12-year-old, football-loving boy from Gilbert was riding his scooter then when he fell, hitting his head on the sidewalk. After getting stitched up, he received a CT scan where doctors found a large mass on his temporal lobe. Being a gifted student, Patrick was afraid to have

the tumor removed from a crucial part of his brain. Neurosurgeon Ruth Bristol of Phoenix Children’s Hospital put the family’s worries at ease. She met with them in early January and performed surgery to remove Patrick’s tumor in March. And following a fairly difficult recovery, Patrick was back up and running, cleared for all activities, by June. After seeing their child in such a fragile state, Patrick’s parents debated allowing him to return to his beloved youth football team, the Gilbert Dawgs. Ultimately, his parents decided they can’t keep him in a bubble forever, and allowed Patrick to rejoin his friends on the team this fall.

Gilbert school among winners in $100,000 D-backs challenge The Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation announced 22 winning schools in the “D-backs $100,000 School Challenge,” presented by University of Phoenix. Among them is Weinberg Elementary School in Gilbert. With more than 200 submissions from Arizona schools, the winning grants come from all around the state and will fund projects ranging in need from school improvements to innovative educational programs. Through the School Challenge program, the D-backs have provided more than 140 schools with grants for an overall monetary commitment of more than $750,000 since the program launched in 2012. Winning schools will use the grant money to satisfy an array of needs, ranging from a fitness trail to new musical instruments and a preserve greenhouse to a peer mentor character-building program. Weinberg Elementary’s Makey Makey project falls under the category of innovation and technology. Each winning school will be honored and receive a check on the field at a 2017 D-backs game next April and May at Chase Field. The D-backs will donate more than 400 tickets for students, parents, teachers and staff from each school to attend the D-backs’ game in which their school will be honored. Submissions from teachers and faculty

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January 2017

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Local pianists among winners in the Arizona Musicfest competition Nine young musicians from the Valley and Tucson took home top honors in piano during the first of six events in the 16th annual Young Musicians Competition organized by Arizona Musicfest. Among them were Miles Fawson of Casteel High School in Gilbert, who won first place in the Division 1 (7th and 8th grades) and Micah Porter, Highland Junior High, Gilbert won 3rd Place in the piano competition. “Each season, Arizona Musicfest provides important performance competitions for the best and brightest young musicians in the area,” said Allan E. Naplan, executive and producing director of Arizona Musicfest, in a media release. “Because we offer both generous cash prizes as well as judging by some of the area’s top professional musicians and teachers, the level of competition is consistently high.” The non-profit arts organization based in North Scottsdale produces an annual concert festival as well as music education and youth performance opportunities for children throughout the Valley. Additional performance competitions are scheduled in vocal (March 25), strings, harp and guitar (April 1), woodwinds, brass and percussion (April 2) and chamber ensemble (April 2).

Competitive performances are conducted at La Casa de Cristo Church, 6300 E. Bell Road in Scottsdale. A new category for composers was added for the 2016-17 competition. Here is the full slate of winners in the piano competition: • Division I (7th & 8th grades): 1st place – Miles Fawson, Casteel High School, Gilbert; 2nd Place – Damian Galasso, home school, Tucson; 3rd Place – Micah Porter, Highland Junior High, Gilbert. • Division II (9th & 10th grades): 1st Place – Jessica Zhang, Corona del Sol High School, Tempe; 2nd Place – Christina Chang, Basis Scottsdale, Scottsdale; 3rd Place – Vivian Zhao, Hamilton High School, Chandler. • Division III (11th & 12th grades): 1st Place – Alexander Fan, Hamilton High School, Chandler; 2nd Place – Joseph Galasso, home school, Tucson; 3rd Place – Sara Johnson, home school, Phoenix. For the new composers’ competition, composers in grades 7 through 12 will write for a string quartet or subset of the ensemble. The winner will receive a cash award and a reading/recording of their work by professional musicians. The submission deadline is noon on Friday, April 7.

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Miles Fawson, of Casteel High School; Damian Galasso, who is home schooled in Tucson), and Micah Porter, of Highland Junior High, were winners in the Arizona Musicfest piano competition.

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Meanwhile, the 26th annual Arizona Musicfest Winter Festival opens Jan. 27 with Grammy Award-winning trumpet sensation Chris Botti and runs through March 10 when Decades of Divas: From Billie and Aretha to Celine and Barbra closes the 18-concert season. In between, among the special guests, are legendary multiple Grammy Awardwinning Manhattan Transfer (Feb. 3), vocal powerhouse Cantus (Feb. 7), world renowned classical violinist Midori (Feb. 23), Grammy winner Patti Austin with The Festival Orchestra (Feb. 24) celebrating Ella Fitzgerald’s 100th\ birthday and Kennedy Center Honoree Mavis Staples (March 6). Additional performances include The Young Musicians Winter Concert (Jan. 29), Mirage: Visions of Fleetwood Mac (Jan. 30), Nicole Pesca (Feb. 1), A Band Called Honalee: The ‘60s of Peter, Paul and Mary (Feb. 10), Kruger

Brothers and Kontras Quartet (Feb. 13), A Broadway Romance (Feb. 14), Bob Moody & Friends with Broadway’s Telly Leung (Feb. 16), Festival Orchestra Chamber Players: Bach, Mozart & Stravinsky (Feb. 19), Beethoven’s “Triple” Concerto and Saint Saens’ “Organ” Symphony (Feb. 21), “Italian” Symphony & Opera: Pagliacci in Concert Featuring Stars of the Metropolitan Opera (Feb. 26) and We’ve Only Just Begun: The Carpenters Remembered (March 2). The Arizona Musicfest Festival Orchestra, under the direction of Maestro Robert Moody, will feature musicians from prestigious orchestras nationwide including the Chicago Symphony, Cleveland Orchestra, National Symphony, Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and San Francisco Symphony, among others. Details: azmusicfest.org or call 480840-0457.

Youth

www.GilbertSunNews.com

January 2017

East Valley school districts recognize need for school nurses BY NATALIE TARANGIOLI

Cronkite News School nurses do more than bandage scraped knees. They often provide a lifeline to a student’s medical care for a chronic condition like asthma or diabetes, advocates say. A national pediatrician’s group recommends that every school have a nurse, but Arizona does not require it. That means inconsistency among district schools and charters, where some districts like Mesa Public Schools and Gilbert Public Schools have at least one nurse per school and others are stretched thin. The June policy statement “calls for a minimum of one full-time registered nurse in every school” from the American Academy of Pediatrics. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say only about half of schools in the country have nurses assigned, but data about the number of Arizona school nurses is difficult to find. One reason is school nurses aren’t required under state law. Another reason is a school nurse isn’t clearly defined. Sometimes a school

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nurse isn’t a licensed nurse, said Nadine Miller, president of the School Nurse Organization of Arizona and director of health services for Mesa Public Schools. “When you go to your school, and you say, ‘Do you have a school nurse?’ Most places tell you ‘yes,’” Miller said. “Oftentimes, that person in that health office is a medical assistant, a secretary, a nice mom that’s come to help, but it’s not always a nurse.” Schools without nurses can be a loss for students, she said. More than half of children in Arizona are considered low-income, according to the National Center for Children in Poverty. School nurses can treat children when a trip to the doctor isn’t a financial option. School nurses also can prevent absenteeism, according to the National Association of School Nurses. Schools with a full-time nurse have about half the student illness- or injury-related early releases from school compared to those with no nurses, the association website said. Charles Tack, communications director for the Arizona Department of Education,

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said even though school nurses are not required in the state they are important to education. “It can help student achievement, it can help make sure students are healthy,” Tack said. “We know that students need to be healthy in order to learn.” Miller said she recognizes the need for more nurses in schools but said budgets sometimes can’t be stretched to cover the cost of staffing a nurse. “School budgets, particularly in Arizona right now, have not been very good,” Miller said. “School nursing is not always on the forefront, because you need a teacher in that classroom first and foremost.” Tack said it’s on the shoulders of local school boards to assess their community’s needs and allot funding for a school nurse. “Those local school districts, they do have that ability: to bring in the

parents, to bring in the families and the community members and find out what the needs are,” Tack said. “Then they can put those policies into action that best serve their communities and families.”

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January 2017

Spirituality

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Book explores relationship between science and religion While science and religion are often seen as opposing forces, physicist and born-again Christian Dr. Ron Rickards is working to prove otherwise. The Gilbert resident has found unparalleled connections between these fields, exemplifying how they work in unison to glorify God. Rickards educates readers on the relationship between science and religion in “Eternal Harmony, Volume 1: The Unity of Truth in God.” In the book, Dr. Rickards asserts the supremacy of the Christian worldview from scientific and religious perspectives. Using his expertise in physics, Dr. Rickards proves that science and religion work in harmonious conjuncture, providing specifics on how this is accomplished. He presents his findings in a reader-friendly yet technically rigorous manner that nonscientific and non-theological readers will be able to fully comprehend and appreciate.

“There is no real conflict between science and religion,” Rickards said. “Instead, true science can be used to bolster the Christian perspective and provide further testimony of God’s existence and great work. Eternal Harmony will show readers precisely how genuine science and religion work in tandem to glorify God.” Rickards is a physicist, musician, and the founder/president of Eternal Harmony Music and Literature, a Christcentered, science-based ministry. He received his master’s degree in physics from San Diego State University and his doctorate in physics from the University of California at Davis. He lives in Gilbert with his wife, Ester. “Eternal Harmony” also features the lyric sheets for 12 original songs from the companion soundtrack Eternal Harmony Soundtrack, Volume 1: The Unity of Truth in God (Available on iTunes and Amazon). Details: EternalHarmonyMusic.com.

‘Essays of the Light’ a book for those looking for the meaning of life From transcribed material derived from trance-channeled conversations and direct dictation, Erin Michelle Galito of Gilbert presents a book titled “Essays of the Light.” The book is suggested for individuals who are searching for God, the true meaning of life, and a better world. A trance channel and psychic medium, Galito connects with people beyond a basic emotional level. Her book serves as a guide for spirituality as a means to encourage human beings to think beyond their everyday mindset. “I have had psychic experiences all of my life, but didn’t always understand it,” Galito said in a press release. “In 2011, I began verbal trance channeling when the archangels made themselves known to me. I was told that I had made a contract with them before entering this life, and I am to dedicate myself to the awakening and Ascension of all people.” With her passion to connect with people, Galito has lead support groups and workshops in Arizona and Northern Virginia. Readers are encouraged to submit their questions to info@

erinmichellegalito.com, where she will select questions for channeled answers to be posted on her blog. Essays of the Light, published by Balboa Press of Bloomington, Indiana, is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Balboa Press. Details: essaysofthelight.org.

www.GilbertSunNews.com

Spirituality

January 2017

Spiritual Reflections The Bridge Church 645 N Gilbert Rd., Suite 180 Gilbert 85234 480-294-7888 bridgechurchaz.org Services: 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sundays We exist to show the world who Jesus is, and we believe that when people get to know Jesus as He really is, their lives will change forever. Therefore, it is our passion to help people know Jesus throughout Gilbert, Metro Phoenix and the world. Central Christian Church—Gilbert 965 E. Germann Rd., Gilbert 85297 centralaz.com Services: 5:30 p.m. Saturdays; and 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Sundays While the Bible itself is the church’s official document of faith, the website lists a variety of statements that fundamentally define the church. Please visit the website for more information. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 3301 S. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert 85297

480-822-5000 lds.org/church/temples/gilbertarizona?lang=eng For more information about the church, visit the website above. First United Methodist Church of Gilbert 331 S. Cooper Rd., Gilbert 85233 480-892-9166 gilbertumc.org Services: 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. (traditional services) and 11 a.m. (contemporary service) Sundays There are two traditional services— 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.—with the Chancel choir and traditional worship. The 11 a.m. service has a contemporary feel, with music from the Praise Band. The 9:30 a.m. service generally has the largest attendance. Gilbert Presbyterian Church 235 E. Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert 85234 480-892-6753, azgpc.org Services: 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sundays Gilbert Presbyterian Church is called to be a Christ-centered covenant family nurtured by the Holy Spirit to worship

God and to share God’s love. The Lawrence Memorial AME Zion Church 1141 E. Guadalupe Road Gilbert 85234 (Mailing address is 835 W. Warner Rd Suite 101 Gilbert, 85233) 480-772-3603 Services: Sunday Church Service at 10:15 a.m. and Bible Study on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. The Lawrence Memorial Church is a contemporary church. We are a multicultural church that is simply looking to reach the unreachable with love. Living Water United Methodist Fellowship Highland Park Elementary School 230 N Cole. Dr., Gilbert 85234 livingwaterum.org Services: 10 a.m. Sundays Living Water exists to bring people in to meet Christ, build people up to follow Christ and send people out to share Christ. Mission Community Church 4450 E. Elliot Rd., Gilbert 85234

480-545-4024 mission68.org Services: 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturdays; and 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 11:59 a.m. Sundays The Bible is God’s word to all people. It was written by human authors under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. Because it is inspired by God, it is truth and without error in the original manuscripts. Redemption Gilbert 1820 W. Elliot Rd, Gilbert 85233 480-632-2220 gilbert.redemptionaz.com/about/abrief-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. SEE

SPIRITUAL REFLECTIONS PAGE 48

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Spirituality

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San Tan Bible Church 1424 S. Promenade Lane, Gilbert 85296 Phone number not available. 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, 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 326 E. Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert 85234 480-892-2435, 2riverschurch.org Services: 6 p.m. Saturdays; and 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. (Spanish) Sundays Two Rivers Church exists to help lead congregants into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ by encouraging and equipping them to love God intimately and serve others. It has a casual environment with a serious faith.

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SPIRITUAL REFLECTIONS FROM PAGE 47 Resurrection Episcopal Church Meets at Gilbert Community Center, 130 N. Oak St., Gilbert 85233 | 480-7195343 resurrectiongilbert.org Services: 10 a.m. Sundays Resurrection officials say the congregation is a church you can believe in because you belong. This means it welcomes and embraces all people because God already has. Come for worship, fellowship and Bible study on Sundays and join the group on a spiritual journey to better understand God’s plan for our lives.

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Eight-week meditation course The Meditation Learning Center and the Arizona International Buddhist Meditation Center (AIBMC) offer opportunities to practice, learn meditation and mindfulness. Eight-week courses are provided throughout the year enabling one to study and practice meditation and mindfulness at a deeper level. The next eight-week course, “Meditation, The Great Teacher,” begins January 21. The course costs $50 and the book is $10. The book may be purchased in class or at amazon. com/Meditation-The-Great-TeacherPractice/dp/1460964373. Course facilitator Shane Wilson is a Buddhist minister who has studied meditation throughout the world with many gifted teachers. He regularly teaches at the AIBMC in Mesa as well as facilitates meditation gatherings, workshops and retreats and runs a private practice. Details: meditationlearningcenter.com

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Desert Dance Theatre honors Harriet Tubman In celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Desert Dance Theatre presents “The 25th Anniversary of Sister Moses: The Story of Harriet Tubman” at 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, at the Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. The show opens with Desert Dance Theatre repertory, including “Marco’s Swing,” choreographed by Lisa R. Chow, with original music by Step Raptis; two dances as a tribute to Billie Holiday’s “Strange Fruit,” performed by Renee Davis, and “Spreadin’ Rhythm Around,” performed by the company; and a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “We’re On The Move” (excerpt from Desert Dance Theatre’s “Free at Last”). Dennis Rowland and Charles Lewis will provide vocals. A Detroit native and Phoenix resident, Rowland was the voice of the world-renowned Count Basie Orchestra from 1977 to 1984, where he shared the stage with Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Joe Williams and Tony Bennett. He is featured on the Basie Band’s Grammy award-winning record “On the Road.” Energetic, creative and unforgettable are words that describe Phoenix piano legend Lewis. Named the first jazzcategory inductee to the Arizona Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame, Lewis began performing on the piano at church functions when he was 7 years old. In 1953, he moved from Philadelphia to Arizona to attend Arizons State, and he started performing in 1954 at the 7th Avenue Elks Club jams. He played with several bands before forming the Charles Lewis Quintet. After intermission, Desert Dance Theatre presents its featured performance of “Sister Moses: The Story of Harriet Tubman” for the show’s 25th season. This production is a beautiful story of a courageous woman’s determination to free her people

8th,

from slavery through the Underground Railroad. She was among America’s first liberated women of color, who fought against all odds for the sake of freedom and equality. The show’s goal is to bring light to the accomplishments of the anti-slavery activist, Tubman. This powerful music/dance/drama features Desert Dance Theatre with Renee Davis as Tubman, dramatic narration/voice of Tubman by Renee Morgan Brooks, African drumming and music direction by Raptis, accompaniment by the Sister Moses String Quartet and traditional spirituals sung by the Sister Moses Choral Ensemble, featuring baritone soloist, Greg Dansby. The unique blend of this 45-minute multidisciplinary presentation highlights the most important episodes of Tubman’s life, and shares the knowledge and experience of her struggles and accomplishments to bring a source of inspiration to the audience. The program follows Tubman’s life as a young slave on a Southern Plantation, her attempts to escape slavery, her work on the Underground Railroad, and her contributions to the Abolitionist movement. Slave songs from that period are featured for their significance as a means of passing information among the slaves. Hidden in the lyrics were vital escape details. For more information, contact Desert Dance Theatre at 480-962-4584 or go to DesertDanceTheatre.org.

Starting January 2017, please join us as we work through the Community Bible Experience together, as a church family!

Sundays at 10:00 am New Location 645 N Gilbert Rd, Suite 180 Gilbert, AZ 85234 (Southeast corner of Gilbert & Guadalupe, south of Big Lots) Pastor Kent Bertrand 480.294.7888 www.bridgechurchaz.org

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Arts

January 2017

As You Wish Pottery schedules January classes

As You Wish Pottery offers a slew of activities for youth to adults throughout January. From 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 6, 12 to adults. It is $12 plus pottery and parts to create a Confetti Clock using any color palette chosen. From 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, Homeschool Social will be held for homeschooled children. It is a $15 all-inclusive program with step-by- step basic pottery painting techniques taught to create a self-portrait with a party hat that can be used to write personal goals on with a wipe-off marker. Confetti Clock and Social ResoluFrom 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20, tions are two creations available at Beginning Technique/Spolvero class will be held As You Wish Pottery. for ages Learn how to create a Valentine’s Dayinspired platter. To register for these classes, visit asyouwishpottery.com/classes. East Valley studio locations are in Mesa, Chandler and Gilbert.

Two guitar virtuosos to perform in Gold Canyon Carlos Bonell and Brad Richter are performing 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at the Gold Canyon United Methodist Church, 6640 S. Kings Ranch Rd., Gold Canyon. “Guitar Masters: Carlos Bonell and Brad Richter” is presented by the Gold Canyon Arts Council. They will play classic, folk and pop music. Bonell is known for his classical Spanish guitar music and for playing pop. His association with Paul McCartney of The Beatles inspired Bonell’s album, “Magical Mystery Tour,” which went to the top of the charts in England. Richter, a Tucson resident, has won international awards for his guitar music. His compositions often pay tribute to nature. He is the artistic director of Lead Guitar, a nonprofit that teaches guitar to students, especially the disadvantaged. In association with the Gold Canyon Arts Council’s recent donation of guitars to high schools, Lead Guitar is teaching throughout the East Valley. Both are graduates of the Royal College of Music. Advance tickets are $25 for adults and $5 for students or $30 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at Canyon Rose Storage, 6405 S. Kings Ranch Rd., Gold Canyon, at the Apache Junction Chamber of Commerce office on the Apache Trail, through PayPal or gcac1.com. The GCAC promotes and sponsors performing and visual arts through its Canyon Sounds Concert Series and is supported in part by grants from the Arizona Commission on the Arts, Western States Arts Federation, the National Education Association, local corporations and businesses.

Arts

January 2017

ON STAGE

Zoppé An Italian Family Circus Since 1842, to Sunday, Jan. 8, CCA. Prepare for acrobatics, equestrian daredevilry, canine capers and clowns as the ringmaster guides you through an enchanting story in the Old-World Italian circus tradition. The intimate 500-person tent allows for fun audience participating and the show changes every year. Is He Dead?, Sunday, Jan. 1 to Saturday, Feb. 11, HCT. Based on a Mark Twain story, this hilarious Broadway play sees a French artist fake his own death to increase the worth of his paintings. However, things get really crazy when he returns and pretends to be his own sister.

Lion King, Jr., Jan 6-15, MAC. An adaptation of the hit Broadway version of “The Lion King” – featuring the music of Elton John and Tim Rice – comes to the Valley stage in this slick youth production. Join Simba, Timone, Pumba and other favorite characters on the African savanna. Doc Holliday, Saturday, Jan. 7, HCPA. Spend an evening in the presences of the famed dentist-turnedoutlaw Doc Holliday as he tells you his colorful history. Written by Terry Earp, collaborated with Doc Holliday’s closest living relative, and performed by Wyatt Earp – the greatgrandnephew of the legendary lawman – you can’t get a more authentic Western story than this. Itzhak Perlman, Thursday, Jan. 12, MAC. The greatest living violin virtuoso, Itzhak Perlman brings his brilliant musicianship and charm to the Valley stage for a concert that you won’t want to miss. Joining him will be pianist, and Julliard professor, Rohan de Silva. Annie, Friday, Jan. 13 to Saturday, Jan. 14, MAC. The irrepressibly optimistic

red-haired orphan named Annie comes to the Valley bringing favorite songs like “It’s A Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” and “Tomorrow” in this Tony award-winning production. Winter Fest – Hamlet, Thursdays to Sundays, Jan. 13-28, MAC. The Southwest Shakespeare Company brings to life one of the most famous plays from one of history’s greatest playwrights. Get immersed in the dramatic tale of the Denmark prince as he confronts his inner and outer demons. Winter Fest – Much Ado About Nothing, Thursdays to Sundays, Jan. 14-28, MAC. We know Shakespeare as much for his comedies as his tragedies. This story of romance beset by intrigue, mistaken identity and other obstacles will keep you laughing. The Alley Cats: Doo Wop Drive-in, Saturday, Jan. 14, HCPA. Step back in time to the era of Doo Wop and hear hits from the ‘50s and ‘60s courtesy of singer-comedians The Alley Cats. A regular opening act for Jay Leno, they’ve also performed alongside the Coasters, the Drifters and the Beach Boys. Sister Moses: The Story of Harriet Tubman, Sunday, Jan. 15, CCA. Harriet Tubman has seen a resurgence of popularity recently, and for good reason. Her work freeing slaves and her live after are remarkable. Learn about her incredible life through Desert Dance Theatre’s stunning performance. The Marvelous Wonderettes, Mondays and Tuesdays, Jan. 17-Apr. 18, HCT. Journey back to 1958 and follow four girls as they attend the Springfield High School prom. Learn about their lives through more than 30 hit songs from the ‘50s and ‘60s, including “Lollpop,” “Dream Lover” and “Lipstick on Your Collar.”

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The Fab Four, Friday, Jan. 20, MAC. Unfortunately, you can’t see the Beatles live, but The Fab Four are the next best thing. These eerily accurate performers play the Beatle’s biggest hits through the decades. Costumes change to match the song eras, and “Ed Sullivan” hosts the whole show. The King: The Music of Elvis, Sunday, Jan. 22, CCA. Hear the music from the performer who changed the face of popular music: Elvis Presley, The King. Four Broadway singers and a 12-piece orchestra re-imagine Elvis’ hits including “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Love Me Tender,” and “Hound Dog.” Acoustic Eidolon, Wednesday, Jan. 25, HCT. Experience music you won’t hear anywhere else thanks to highly regarded cellist Hannah Alkire and Joe Scott, who wields a one-of-a-kind guitjo. This 14-string, double-

www.GilbertSunNews.com necked guitar/banjo isn’t something you’ll soon forget.

Roots & Boots, Friday, Jan. 27, CCA. See not one, not two, but three country music stars in one amazing concert. Pam Tillis (“Maybe It Was Memphis,” “Shake The Sugar Tree”), Sammy Kershaw (“She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful,” “Love of My Life”) and Collin Raye (“In This Life,” “My Kind of Girl”) join forces for an unforgettable evening. Drumline Live, Saturday, Jan. 28, CCA. From the team behind the hit movie “Drumline” comes a stage show that will leave you breathless. This marching band goes beyond simple marching to jaw-dropping dancing and athletic displays backed by killer rhythms. 2017 Chinese New Year Show, Saturday, Jan. 28, MAC. Get the year of the Rooster off to a good start thanks to this performance of traditional Chinese songs, music and dance, which includes colorful costumes and amazing visual effects. Chandler Symphony Classical Series: To Jupiter and Beyond, Sunday, Jan. 29, CCA. Join the Chandler Symphony for a free concert that includes Brahms’ touching “Tragic Overture,” Tchaikovsky’s sublime “Meditation” from “Souvenir d’un lieu cher” and Holst’s powerful “Jupiter” and “Mars” from “The Planets.”

ON STAGE VENUE INDEX CCA—Chandler Center for the Arts 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler Tickets: 480-782-2680, chandlercenter.org HCPA—Higley Center for the Performing Arts 4132 E. Pecos Rd., Gilbert Tickets: 480-279-7194, higleycenter.org HCT—Hale Centre Theatre 50 West Page Ave., Gilbert Tickets: 480-497-1181, www. haletheatrearizona.com MAC—Mesa Arts Center One E. Main St., Mesa Tickets: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter.com SCPA—Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale Tickets: 480-499-8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org

Opinion

www.GilbertSunNews.com

January 2017

Check before burning wood: It could be a no-burn day BY DENNY BARNEY

There isn’t much that gets Valley residents more excited than when the weather finally cools off and we can break out the sweaters and enjoy our fireplace or outdoor fire pit. But before you light that fire, do you check to see if it is a no-burn day? Among the more memorable constituent emails I received during my first term in office was from a constituent enraged that I was trying to “crap on Christmas” thanks to our Maricopa County Air Quality Department’s designation of Christmas Eve that year as a noburn day. Not long after, Denny Barney another constituent emailed with concerns that our Valley air had so much pollution, her allergies were flaring up and she begged us to issue more fire restrictions. No matter where you stand on air-quality issues, I believe a brief explanation of no-burn days can help. In the winter months, smoke (technically called PM 2.5) becomes an issue in the Valley because the air is more stagnant, keeping smoke closer to

the ground. Unhealthy levels of PM 2.5 in our air pose serious health concerns for the elderly, children with asthma and adults with respiratory issues. High PM 2.5 levels also put the county at risk of not meeting federal standards. I’m not a fan of burdensome regulation placed on us by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), but not meeting the standards could lead to additional federal regulation, stricter

rules and higher fines paid by taxpayers. Our county Air Quality Department does not randomly call high-pollution advisories or no-burn days on the holidays. The issuance of no-burn days is based on weather conditions and the likely usage of woodburning devices. Believe me when I say it’s not our intent to smother the holiday spirit! So what can you do on a no-burn day? There are plenty of clean alternatives that don’t involve burning wood. For example, it’s safe to use gas and electric fireplaces, EPA approved pellet stoves, and gas fire pits year round. For those folks that enjoy cooking meals outdoors, your barbeque is also OK to use on no-burn days. The fact is, our air has improved because residents of Maricopa County, businesses and our county Air Quality Department have worked together. The number of high-pollution advisories and no-burn days are lower than most people realize. In 2015, the county had just one high-pollution advisory and exceeded the federal health standard for PM 2.5 three times. To find out if it’s a no-burn day, go to cleanairmakemore. com/noburn or call 602-506-6400. You can also communicate questions or complaints through the Clean Air Make More app on your smartphone. This winter, please abide by the noburn days and help a friend understand why it’s important. Think twice before burning wood in fireplaces, chimneys and outdoor fire pits and consider converting to cleaner, non-wood options. The best way to help keep our air clean, our taxes down and our neighbors healthy this holiday season is to abide by no-burn-day restrictions. Denny Barney is a Gilbert resident and a member of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors.

Happy

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To place a business card ad in the Biz Box, contact Tracey Wilson: 480-898-5611 â&#x20AC;˘ tracey@timespublications.com â&#x20AC;˘ www.gilbertsunnews.com PRICE: $50 + tax or 6 months for $275 + tax. Vertical business cards will be reformatted to fit this space.

January 2017

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Behind lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adventures is a primary care doctor. As you get older, reliving moments from your youth holds an incomparable joy. The primary care physicians and specialists of Dignity Health Medical Group will work with you so you can experience that feeling even longer. Start a lasting relationship with a doctor at dignityhealth.org/DHMG or call 602.406.3464 (DHMG).

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January 2017