HDSOUTH fundraising campaign
Gilbert seeing more bucks in classrooms
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An edition of the East Valley Tribune
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This Week
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COMMUNITY.......... 19 Gilbert teen is state oratory champ.
FREE ($1 OUTSIDE OF GILBERT) | GilbertSunNews.com
Sunday, March 15, 2020
Gilbert seniors a big concern amid virus’ spread GSN NEWS STAFF
S
enior-living communities in Gilbert are on heightened alert as the coronavirus pandemic continues making an impact across the East Valley and Arizona. Older adults and those with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, lung disease and heart disease are at the most risk of the coronavirus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But as Gilbert’s public schools were scheduled to reopen after spring break, students appeared likely to be returning to classes this week – unlike their counterparts in Mesa and Tempe – although that could change before Monday. Gov. Doug Ducey, state Health Director Cara Christ and state Superintendent Kathy Hoff-
man conferred by phone Thursday with 400 school administrators across Arizona, saying there was no need to close schools. “There’s simply no greater priority than the health and safety of our kids,” said Ducey. “We are taking proactive measures to ensure our schools have the tools necessary to combat the spread of COVID-19 and keep our kids healthy.” Hoffman said she and her aides are “working closely with public health officials to ensure we are taking the right steps to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.” But the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints decided there was a need to terminate all services, meetings and any other gatherings in Gilbert and across the globe for an undetermined length of time. Park University in Gilbert was taking no
chances, and directed that all classes will be online for an undetermined length of time. In-person classes were called off for this week at Chandler Gilbert Community College and its sister campus. The town also announced several future events were cancelled, including the popular Kapow! Superhero Adventure Race and the Global Village Festival. They joined cancelations of major regional events such as the Ostrich Festival this weekend and the Spring Tempe Arts Festival at the end of the month. The CDC last week said if an outbreak were to occur in a community, it could last for a long time. It advised those at a higher risk of getting sick to avoid crowds, practice good hygiene, avoid nonessential travel and stock up
see VIRUS page 14
Apartments at Cooper- Swinging in spring Baseline get initial OK BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor
BUSINESS................. 25 Meet the owner of Gilbert’s newest gym.
COMMUNITY...................... 19 BUSINESS............................25 OPINION...............................29 SPORTS................................. 31 GETOUT................................33 CLASSIFIED......................... 37
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shopping center owner wants to knock down some store buildings in north Gilbert that have sat vacant for nearly eight years and put in a 205-unit apartment complex instead. Town Council is expected to vote March 24 on SyWest Development’s request for a general plan amendment and rezone for 8.63 acres at the southwest corner of Cooper and Baseline roads in the Shoppes At Gilbert Commons, which includes tenants Kohl’s, Ross and Old Navy. The Planning Commission voted 5-2 earlier this month to recommend the Council approve the requests, going against
see COMMONS page 6
The recent Gilbert Spring Fling held to raise money for Phoenix Children’s Hospital brought Sadie Tenney to take a crack at golf. For a look at how others enjoyed the event, see page 20. (Chris Mortenson/GSN Staff Photographer)
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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
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NEWS
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Council may get veterans advisory board BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor
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former councilman is spearheading the creation of a town board to support veterans and their families in Gilbert. If Town Council approves the proposed Veterans and Military Advisory Board on April 7, it would then appoint seven members to serve staggered terms. Council is expected to hear a presentation on March 24. “This started back in December,” said Les Presmyk, who served 12 years on the Council until he left in 2011. “I had a breakfast meeting with the mayor and one of the things I said is ‘we need to do this.’ She agreed.” Presmyk and over a dozen other stakeholders, mostly veterans, attended their second meeting last week to discuss the structure of the advisory board. The appointed members, who would submit applications, would need to be veterans with the intent they represent all military branches and service periods. Attendees included Councilwoman Brigette Peterson and Bill Spence, a U.S. Navy veteran who is seeking a nine-month appointment this week to Eddie Cook’s vacated Council seat and also is running for the remaining two-years of his term. The proposed board would have subcommittees tasked with duties that could include education and school outreach, Veterans Day event planning and veterans’ services and programs. The town’s Veterans Day Committee would become a subcommittee for this board. The board also would oversee the celebration of returning veterans, a role that was once filled by a now-defunct nonprofit Operation Welcome Home. Jeffrey Groudan asked about the possibility of the board resurrecting the veterans memorial park project. After a number of years fundraising, Operation Welcome Home announced last fall it couldn’t raise all of the $3 million to build the park and folded. The park was to have included a veterans’ resource center and a scaled-down replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.
Discussion came up during the meeting about whether the collapsed plan for the Veterans Memroial Park, which left this site a muddy mess, could be resurrected, but most people felt the sour taste left in the mouths of many people by the Welcome Home Committee would hurt any immediate fundraising effort. (GSN file photo)
Almost a decade ago, when Presmyk and Mayor Jenn Daniels were council members, they formed Operation Welcome Home as a town program to honor service members returning home to Gilbert from active duty. The program was modeled after the one adopted in Daniels’ hometown of Danville, California. Lisa Rigler, who was president and founder of the Gilbert Small Business Alliance, soon partnered with the town and took over the program, eventually taking it to nonprofit status in July 2014 and becoming its board president. It was under Rigler’s leadership that the nonprofit embarked on the park project. How much money the nonprofit actually raised is open to debate. Rigler in 2016 claimed $1.25 million in cash and $600,000 for in-kind donations to a state agency where she successfully sought a $100,000 grant, while filing with the IRS that the organization had $184,646 in net assets or fund balances for that same year. In 2017 Rigler showed town officials the organization had $415,548 in the bank for the project. According to Councilwoman Aimee Yentes, Rigler’s daughter and thenvice president of the nonprofit, about $284,000 went to the general contractor
and $84,000 for permit fees and a performance bond. The project site today remains enclosed by a wire fence with mounds of dirt, after never getting passed the grading stage. Rigler has never responded to Gilbert Sun News’ questions about the nonprofit’s funds and spending. Groudan said quite a bit of money was raised to build the Miracle League of Arizona ballpark in Scottsdale for special-needs children and wondered why Gilbert couldn’t do the same for such a worthy project. “No one in this room disagrees with anything you said,” said Presmyk, who was on the Welcome Home board but left because of concerns with the lack of transparency over its funds. “What we are trying to establish is an official advisory board to the council on veterans and military affairs. “The unfortunate part is the park was a project of a 501C3 that had a contract with the town and they failed and right now we have to set that aside for the time being and get the board up and running…without losing sight Gilbert would very much like to have some sort of park for its veterans,” Presmyk added. The nonprofit and Gilbert had an agreement where the town leased 7 acres for
see VETERANS page 11
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NEWS
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
Here’s a look at applicants for Cook’s seat BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor
E
ight residents – including a hospital administrator, a dentist and a furniture-store owner – are seeking to fill a seat on Gilbert Town Council. Council is scheduled Tuesday to publicly interview the candidates and appoint someone to serve nine months with the remaining two years up for election Aug. 4. The seat was vacated by Eddie Cook, who was appointed Maricopa County assessor in February. All the candidates were to receive six questions, one from each council member and the mayor ahead of their interviews. The candidates will be kept in a separate room, prohibited from sitting in on each other’s interview. The council earlier this month selected the eight from a pool of 103 applicants for the job. The candidates and information from their submissions: Katheen Joy Dowler: A 26-year town resident with over 20 years in the health care industry and is the community health director for Dignity Health. She said she is interested in serving on the council “to enhance our current strategic initiatives and help lead the next generation of our growth.” She says she brings to the table fiscal management, strategic decision-making, priority setting and objective analysis. She is involved with her church and is a board member of a number of nonprofits such as the Desert Cancer Foundation and Mission of Mercy. She and her husband are the parents of two daughters, one of whom is an emergency room doctor, and are grandparents. She stated she wants the nine-month experience on Council before deciding on her political future. Todd Jorgenson: A 17-year resident and dental implant surgeon who owns offices in several locations. He also is the official peritonitis for the Phoenix Suns and Arizona Diamondbacks dental teams. Jorgenson said he wants to serve to continue the town’s legacy that includes
Amanda Shaffle
Bill Spence
Jan Simon
Kathleen Dowler
Noah Mundt
Scott September
Todd Jorgenson
Yung Koprowski
phenomenal economic growth, safety, clean surroundings, parks and schools. He is married with children. He indicated he hopes to serve the town in the future if voters support him. Yung Koprowski: A 12-year resident who is a transportation engineer and owns her own firm. She also serves on the town’s adhoc Citizens Transportation Task Force, which is vetting projects for a possible $465 million bond this November. She wants to serve “in order to contribute towards developing solutions that will continue to make Gilbert an amazing place to live, work and play.” She is married to a civil engineer and they have two elementary-age children. She also has been involved with Habitat for Humanity. If appointed to the seat, she said she will commit to run for the two-year term. Noah Mundt: A 10-year resident and
COO and co-founder of Nexus Integrated Solutions. He also sits on the town Planning Commission. He wants to serve to ensure “the preservation of the innumerable qualities that make Gilbert the greatest place in the world to live.” He is married with children and is involved with a number of nonprofits, including Muscular Dystrophy Association, Mothers Against Drunk Driving and St. Vincent De Paul. He said he intends to serve on the Council beyond the nine months as long as he is able. Scott September: A 15-year resident and national zoning manager for Crown Castle Real Estate. He also serves on the town Planning Commission. He wants to preserve and improve the civic experience for current and future residents and will bring his “professional experience and management style of collaboration, accountability, team-building, problem-solving, conflict resolution
and leadership to the Council role.” He is married with children and intends to run for a full Council term in the future. Amanda Shaffie: A 17-plus-year mother who owns Furniture Brat and is a professional life coach and former Mrs. Arizona pageant winner. She said if appointed, she will continue to “advocate the wholesome nature of Gilbert that attracts the type of living that imparts the desire for future generations to lead successful lives.” She also wants to strengthen the relationship between the town and small-business leaders to grow and support the local economy. She said she would serve longer than the nine months. Jan Simon: A 16-year resident who is the owner and president of an insurance
see COUNCIL page 16
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
NEWS
HDSOUTH launches major funddrive BY SRIANTHI PERERA GSN Contributor
P
lans for HDSOUTH, home of the Gilbert Historical Museum, to become an arts and culture hub downtown took another step forward recently. During its annual gala, the Gilbert Historical Society announced the public phase of its $2 million “Building Communities for All Ages” capital campaign to fund renovations of the historic building and new construction within the complex. Private fundraising has so far raised $1.3 million and the private nonprofit organization hopes to raise the balance of $700,000 with the community’s support. “The launch certainly created more of a buzz since a campaign of this size has never been done before in Gilbert,” said campaign chair Adelaida V. Severson of the announcement she made to the 400 people attending the Night at the Museum gala recently. “The fact that we were able to announce that we are 65 percent of our goal from our silent phase, it gave people inspiration, motivation and faith that we can get to our goal,” she said. For now, the main way that the community may support the fundraiser is
HDSOUTH, Home of the Gilbert Historical Museum, recently held its eighth annual signature fundraiser, A Night at the Museum, on the theme “Gilbert Turns 100” on Feb. 29.(Photos courtesy HDSOUTH)
by purchasing a commemorative brick, said Kayla Kolar, president and CEO of HDSOUTH. “People can memorialize their family or commemorate a business or organization in the back courtyard,” she said. Other ways to involve the community, such as restaurant fundraisers and projects by school and civic groups, are to be announced soon. Groundbreaking is due in the fall, Kolar said. “While we will not break ground until we have cash and pledges for cash in
hand totaling the entire amount for the building project, we do hope to get a bridge loan so we can start construction while donors are still paying on their pledges,” she said. Gilbert, with its population of more
PROBLEM.
SOLUTION.
than 250,000, is proudly marking its 100th anniversary of its incorporation this year. The last few decades have seen it grow rapidly into a vibrant community with schools, parks and plenty of opportunities for employment, shopping, dining and leisure. But residents say it still retains its historic “small-town feel.” While all those signs of modernity and economic viability in place, a fully-fledged center to promote the arts and culture has been elusive. The newly energized downtown area, which HDSOUTH bookends on the south side of Gilbert Road, could use just such a center. Maria Hesse, a Gilbert resident of 28 years and a donor to the campaign, said that while preserving the history of the community, HD SOUTH’s role in building community is critical.
see HDSOUTH page 16
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Kayla Kolar, president of HDSOUTH, told guests at its annual gala about the public phase of the arts and history center’s capital campaign.
Adelaida V. Severson, chair of the capital campaign, addressed the crowd at the gala.
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COMMONS
NEWS
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
from page 1
planning staff, the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and nearby residents such as Jennifer Cabral. Cabral at the March 4 planning hearing said the proposed apartments would destroy her quality of life. She said she lives near the shopping complex, having moved to Gilbert about seven years ago from Boston, Massachusetts. She added she was thankful she did not live in Tempe with all its apartments, which makes it look “like a cheap city for college students.” “I chose Gilbert because of the fact it was full of single-family homes, because of the fact there is a lot of farms around and because it’s so homey to me,” Cabral said. “I see families, I see kids playing outside. I feel comfortable in my neighborhood,” she continued. “My neighborhood, they leave their garage doors opened, I leave my front door opened. I have no issues. I chose here. I want to keep it like that. I want to keep that value here.” The apartment project would bring in more noise, police and ambulances, Cabral claimed, telling Council: “It doesn’t matter how fancy they make it look. It still brings everything down. It just makes it look like you don’t have as much money. It doesn’t seem family oriented. It just seems like you’re shoving people somewhere because they need somewhere to be.” Other residents voiced concerns with increased traffic, crime, diminished
This layout of the strip mall at the southwest corner of Baseline and Cooper roads shows the area that the owner wants rezone for apartments. (Town of Gilbert)
home value and loss of retail. They contended that the owner could put in something other than residential. Staff also presented the commission with the results of a neighborhood SurveyMonkey, which showed 128 opponents and 14 supporters of the apartments proposal. If Council approves the changes, SyWest intends to sell the 8-acre site to
The proposed apartment complex for a portion of the strip[ mall on Cooper Road just south of Baseline would occupy eighth acres.. (Town of Gilbert)
multi-family developer PB Bell, which would develop Gilbert Commons, consisting of three-story buildings and carriage units along the eastern side of the property. The development also would include a pool, clubhouse, dog park, entertainment pavilions, community fire pits, an outdoor kitchen and tot lot. The proposed units would range from
703 square feet to 1,342 square feet and rent from $1,100 to $1,850 a month. The developer came to the town over two years ago with a proposal to tear down the 90,000 square feet of empty commercial buildings facing Cooper Road for the apartments, planner Amy Temes said. She said planners at the time told the developer that the town was open to the proposal, recognizing the growing number of younger and older people preferring apartment living and the impact of online commerce on brick-and mortar stores. “We said, ‘Bring us something innovated, bring us something out of the park, bring us something that is creative and a lifestyle center,’” Temes said. Instead, she said the proposed project is a standard multi-family development that can be found anywhere in the Southeast Valley. According to Temes, the overall project lacked the design elements needed to realize the mixed-use vision of the town’s General Plan. Temes added that the town’s overall land use was zoned about 3 percent multi-family, 3 percent office, 10 percent commercial and over 68 percent single-family. “If we continue to lose our commercial and our employment, are we sustainable?” she said. “That is a good question. Can we continue to provide everything
see COMMONS page 7
This overhead shot of the strip mall shows its proximity to homes, where some owners oppose plans for an apartment complex. (Town of Gilbert)
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
COMMONS
from page 6
that we provide to our town residents if we keep chipping away, chipping away at our numbers? “We need those employers here so our people can work local, close to home, not do the hour-long commute to downtown We need the retail to keep them at home and be able to serve them.” She said commercial up to a 10-mile radius from the site “is actually doing very well.” Jed Craig, senior vice president of leasing for SyWest, said the retail industry has changed dramatically with fewer players since the purchase of the shopping center in 2012. “Most of the retailers I would look to lease to my center for the Cooper Road side I already have as tenants on Baseline or they are across the street or down the street,” Craig said. “I have no other property like this and I have been doing this for over 20 years.” He said it would be more financially viable for him to lease the space for retail but the chronic vacancy is costing him. He added the 16-year-old shopping center has covenants in place, including lease and deed restrictions and that major tenants like TJ Maxx and Kohls have weighed in heavily on the proposed apartment and are supportive because it won’t compete with them and would bring in more customers. He said he has worked with town staff for two years on the project and that is a well-integrated one and would protect what he has now. Attorney Ralph Pew, who represented the developer and property owner, disputed some of the residents’ comments about the project. He said there are no studies that show apartments negatively affect home value or stats to show they provoke an increase in crime. He noted Cabral lives nearly a mile from the site and the project would not affect her lifestyle. He said just because someone chooses to live in an apartment doesn’t make that person a different human being. He also said traffic would be lower with the apartments than with a fully occupied shopping center. “The issue is not whether there should
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be multi-family here,” Pew said. “The real question is how do we implement a multi-family element here. Another choice is to say ‘no’ to this project. Then what happens? Then we have nothing. We have vacant space longer, longer and longer without any solution for the foreseeable future.” He referenced the heavy toll online sales have had on traditional store and the drop in retail space development in the Phoenix region – 700,000 square feet in 2017 from almost 12 million square feet in 2007, when the economy was beginning to tank. Pew argued that the project, although not perfect, conforms to the General Plan in trying to achieve a community live, work, play environment and would eliminate abandoned buildings. He pointed out staff failed to note the apartment project is in the northwest corridor growth area, a major employment center the town is looking to revitalize. He said when the town adopts its plan for the area, there would be plenty of general plan amendments coming forward looking to position property to fit in with the plan. He also noted experts from the Urban Land Institute Arizona suggested the town embrace multi-family housing in the area to help grow the employment base in the corridor. Pew also apologized for not having a plan showing how the apartment would integrate into the surrounding environment and that such details generally come back to the commission during the design review stage. “It’s clear there was a disconnect on our part on what was expected,” he said. He urged commissioners to move the case forward in the meantime and recommend approval to the Council. Commissioner Scott September said everyone, including the property owner, would like to keep the site retail but the fact remains e-commerce is affecting brick-and mortar buildings and he expected to see more of this in the future. However, he wished the project was one that others would want to duplicate. He and Commissioner Jan Simon
cast the two dissenting votes. Vice Chairman Carl Bloomfield said he heard the residents’ concerns and noted the property owner by right could build lofts above, commercial on the first floor and residential on top. “They are the owners of the property,” he said, acknowledging the long-time vacancy of the buildings. “They’ve done a lot of work to get to this point.” He said staff should have included the northwest corridor in the project report and he didn’t know how to resolve all the concerns but he will air on the side of property rights. Commissioner David Cavenee, who has a retail background, said he appreciated the dilemma the developer was going through. He said multi-family is a very common buffer between industrial and residential and the proposed project was not out of the ordinary and that the developer would pump a lot of capital to
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improve the site. Cavenee also said if he lived across the street from a retail development that sat empty for eight years, he would rather have a vibrant multi-family development than vacant retail shells that could potentially become blighted. Commissioner Noah Mundt said the rendering looked nice and he disagreed that multi-family developments were a precursor to crime. He said blighted empty buildings were more likely to attract “vagrants and other unseemly people.” Chairman Brian Andersen said retail is not working on the site and noted nobody likes apartments but they are in demand with the population growth in the Valley. He said the stigma of apartments is a leftover from the 1980s and the demand for multi-family will grow for the next 10 years whether they like it or not.
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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
State report details Higley, GPS classroom spending BY CECILIA CHAN GSN Managing Editor
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ilbert’s two school districts managed costs for transportation and administration in 2018-19 better than the previous year but their spending in those areas was still higher than the state average, according to the state Auditor General. Districts that operate efficiently allocate more of their resources to instruction such as increase teacher pay, hire more teachers or buy more school supplies, the annual report said. Gilbert Public Schools, one of the largest districts in the state with 33,000 students, saw its transportation cost drop to $4.36 a mile from $4.38 a mile in fiscal year 2018 but it was still considered high by the state. The average transportation cost for GPS’ peers was $4.02 per mile and $4.29 for the state. The district’s cost per rider, on the other hand, was comparable to its peers EV Tribune half pg horiz • March 2020.pdf 2/13/2020 and the state at $1,419.
“The number of students riding buses decreased from 2018 to 2019,” explained Dawn Antestenis, district spokeswoman in an email. “The bus routes and distances, however, did not decrease. “So, the same or slightly increased cost with a lower number of students resulted in the money amount/student increasing. The cost per mile decrease is most likely due to decreases in total fuel expense.” The district has been trying to get a handle on its transportation cost and last year a hired consultant came up with a number of cost-cutting recommendations, including new bell times for the schools and a revamped bus routing system to reduce the number of buses and drivers needed. Although the district came in lower than its peers and the state for administration, food and plant operations costs, its administration cost increased to $654 per student – up from $583 the previous year. Antestenis said two factors caused the 11:37:30 AM increase.
“The first one was due to a correction associated with the accounting of several administrative staff members,” she said. “The change in how existing full-time executive leadership personnel are accounted for caused this overall increase to administrative expense.” The Uniform System for Financial Records Chart of Accounts requires all executive leadership personnel and their direct staff be counted in the administration category, according to Antestenis. So, four full-time employees and their assistants were moved from an instructional to an administrative category, she said, stressing that no full-time employees were added. “Secondly, for the first time in many years, salary increases were significant where teachers saw a 9 percent increase and all other staff saw a 5 percent increase,” Antestenis said. “This large increase for teachers partially accounted for the increase in classroom spending.” She added that district officials didn’t
find any surprises with the audit. “Gilbert continues to drive dollars into the classroom on behalf of our students and their families,” she said. “We want to be excellent stewards of taxpayer dollars and strive to be as fiscally responsible as possible on a daily basis.” The report shows that 61.2 percent of GPS’ operating budget was spent on instruction – which includes salaries for teachers and related personnel like aides, supplies, textbooks and software and extracurricular activities such as athletics and field trips. When other instruction and student support is factored in, GPS devoted 74.1 percent of its total operational budget last school year to kids, according to report. In direct classroom spending, GPS led all districts its size. The others include Chandler, which devoted 60.9 percent of its budget to instruction, Deer Valley (59.5 percent), Paradise Valley (58.6),
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Peoria (57.5), Dysart (57.2), Mesa (56.2), Scottsdale (56) Phoenix High School District (54.3) and Tucson (52.1). The 59.8 percent of all spending that Higley put in the classroom led all districts its size – including Glendale (57.2 percent), Marana (54.6), Tolleson (54.6), Ampitheater (54.2), Tempe Union (53.6) Sunnyside (52.5), Vail (52.4), Flagstaff (52.2) and Yuma (48.6). Higley Unified, the smaller of the town’s two districts with 12,126 students, continued to see its spending for administration and plant operations go up. Most notably, Higley saw its transportation cost increase from 2018-19 to a point the report called it “very high.” The district spent $5.30 per mile compared with its peers’ average spending of $4.60 a mile and the state average of $4.29 a mile. The prior year, the district’s spending was $4.47 a mile. Its per-rider cost of $1,207 was lower than the $1,224 spent by districts as well as the $1,424 state average. “We have dropped our expenses on the whole the last three years,” Higley spokeswoman Michelle Reese said. “However, we also consolidated some routes. This may have led to an increased cost per mile.” Reese added the district saw an increase to repairs and supplies last year due to an aging bus fleet. And, she said, the districts provide transportation to a higher number of students for safety reasons due to the canals and railroad crossings in the community. “We have been able to purchase a few new student transportation vehicles thanks to voter-approved measures,” she noted. The report also characterized the district’s administration spending as high at a cost per student of $918, up from $875 the previous year. The district’s average peer spending was $842 per student and the statewide average was at $903. Reese said one reason the district may have received a “high” rating is because it continues to provide salary increases when possible to classified staff, including to those in transportation. “Higley continues to examine our administrative cost,” Reese said. “Our administrative spending is 0.7 percent low-
NEWS
er in the fiscal year 2019 report than the previous year. We also continue to lower the number of administrators per students, from 93 in fiscal year 2018 to 87 in fiscal year 2019.” This comes at a time when the district is working to provide competitive wages to all employees. Reese added. Overall, classroom spending in Arizona has increased for the third year in a row to 54.7 cents of every dollar in the past school year but remains lower than the highest level spent for instruction in 15 years, according to the report. During this same time period, the state’s average teacher salary increased $3,490, or 7.1 percent, to $52,441, the report stated. However, since its peak in fiscal year 2004, the state’s instructional spending percentage has declined 3.9 percentage points, while the percentages spent on most other operational areas have increased. Between fiscal years 2018 and 2019, districts’ operational spending increased by $475 million with $310 million of the increase spent on instruction. During this same time period, the state’s average teacher salary increased $3,490, or 7.1 percent, to $52,441. The district’s total per pupil spending, – including nonoperational expenses such as building, land and equipment – for 2018-19 was $9,402, up from $8,477 the year prior. Higley’s total per pupil spending was $9,340, up from $8,824 in the same time period. The statewide average for total per pupil spending was $10,928 – a figure driven by spending on equipment, land and buildings and bond interest that was far higher than either Higley or GPS. The report shows Higley reduced the number of students per teacher from 18.1 to 16.9 between 2017-18 and last school year while GPS’ ratio stayed almost the same at 17.5. Higley also showed an overall student population increase of 14 percent in that time while GPS saw the number of its students decline by 8 percent. Higley also had a higher graduation rate at 96 percent, compared to GPS’ 91 percent.
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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
Senate panel kills community college bill BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services
A
rizona’s community colleges won’t be offering four-year degrees, at least not in the immediate future. On a 6-3 vote last week, the Senate Education Committee quashed legislation that would have allowed these colleges to start offering baccalaureate degrees. The vote came despite the same measure having gained bipartisan House approval last month on a 42-18 margin. Rep. Becky Nutt, R-Clifton, the prime sponsor, argued that the current system requires rural students who want fouryear degrees to leave their homes, affecting families and undermining efforts to promote local economic development. She said nothing in HB 2790 would force any community college to expand its reach. But Nutt said many of these already have buildings and other infrastructure
in place that would allow them to start offering four-year degrees without any new investment and without raising local taxes. Larry Penley, president of the Arizona Board of Regents, told lawmakers there is no real need. He said the state’s three universities already have working relationships with community colleges around the state, partnering with them in ways to offer four-year degrees. And he said there even is reduced tuition for university courses that are taught on community college campuses. But Keith Alexander, assistant to the president of Eastern Arizona College, said much of what’s taught is by computer links. He said that’s no substitute for actually having faculty on campus. And Alexander said there are gaps in what kind of degrees are available in his rural community. “We have jobs that are not filled there,
the majority of those requiring bachelor’s degrees,’’ he said. “And there aren’t people there to fill them.’’ None of the legislators who voted against the proposal disputed there may be needs, particularly in rural areas, for additional paths to a four-year degree. But their concern was the breadth of the legislation, opening the door without restriction to community colleges being able to offer any degree they want. “Just simply opening the gates ... creating a Dodge City atmosphere where you could have multiple nursing programs, multiple accredited programs, you could have all kinds of unhealthy competition,’’ said Sen. Kate Brophy McGee, R-Phoenix. She said there may be some options. But this bill, Brophy McGee said, is not it. “This has to be put together thoughtfully, carefully,’’ she said, perhaps with more study and a pilot program. Sen. Sonny Borrelli, R-Lake Havasu City, however, said he looks at it from the per-
spective of students. “This help out low-income families,’’ he said, with degrees at community colleges likely to cost far less than what universities charge. And Borrelli said he was not concerned about the effect on universities, suggesting if they were forced to compete, they might lower their own costs. But Sen. Martin Quezada, D-Phoenix, said that’s making an assumption. He pointed out that there is nothing in the legislation that precludes community colleges, granted the ability to offer fouryear degrees, do not raise their tuition. That possibility of higher tuition didn’t impress Sen. Sylvia Allen, R-Snowflake. She said universities, which have no state-mandated cap on tuition, have been increasing tuition now for decades. Sen. Sally Ann Gonzales, D-Tucson, said not every community college in the state wants this authority. She suggested the issue needs further study.
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VETERANS from page 3
the park at $1 a year and build off-site improvements to the site, which ended up costing $1.6 million. Presymk, who currently serves on the town Parks and Recreation Board, said exploring the possibility of building the park could be assigned to a subcommittee in the future. “The idea to go out and raise money for a veterans park in Gilbert is terribly stained by what has happened last year with that 501C3,” he said. Peterson said a new nonprofit would have to come to the town with the funds in order for the park to be built. “I worked on that project from the getgo for four years,” said John Ciazza. “To see it go was quite disturbing to me.” Ciazza said he made lots of friends in the business community who were willing to support the park project and didn’t see why the board couldn’t go back out to them now for help. Groudan added that if the project was too big for Gilbert to handle, perhaps it could be an East Valley endeavor. This prompted Dave Rosenfeld, who
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chairs the Gilbert Veterans Day Committee, to ask Groudan if he’s ever eaten chocolate right after he’s thrown it up. “Give a chance for people to get the taste out of their mouths and revisit it” later, Rosenfeld said. Presmyk noted one donor gave the nonprofit $100,000 for the project and has had no accounting on what happened with the money, so it would be hard to go and ask that donor for funds again. Jim Schorie reminded the attendees that the board wouldn’t be able to investigate the issue unless the Council directed it to do so. “I think you’ve heard from Brigette that there’s no money in the budget to build this park,” Presmyk said. “Direction has to come from Town Council.” Phil Bobadilla said everyone in the room wants to see the project happen but first they have to bury the “dead cow” and establish the board, adding it could do a lot of things for veterans at no to low cost to create a culture and environment that welcomes veterans and enable people “to get use to eating chocolate again.”
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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
Ducey taking measured approaches on virus BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services
G
ov. Doug Ducey declared a public health emergency last to give state officials more leeway and tools to deal with the COVID-19 outbreak. Nothing in the governor’s decision actually restricts what people can do or where they can go. And state Health Director Cara Christ said there are no plans to limit large public gatherings as governors in other states have done. But even as Christ was saying there is no need to cancel events or urge closure of public facilities, Arizona State University President Michael Crow announced his school would switch to online instruction “wherever possible’’ for the next two weeks over concerns about the virus. At press time, no decision had been made to close Scottsdale Community College and its sister campuses.
What the Ducey’s declaration includes: Easing licensing requirements for health officials and facilities, potentially making room for more patients as they are diagnosed; Allowing hospitals and health care facilities, including nursing homes, additional “flexibility’’ to question and screen both employees and visitors; Giving health officials new authority to procure “needed medical supplies.’’ The governor also issued a separate executive order directing insurance companies and health plans to pay for care provided to patients who see doctors and laboratories who are not part of their network. And Ducey said his order also protects consumers against “price gouging’’ by private labs and health care providers for testing for the new virus. Only thing is, the Republican-controlled Legislature rebuffed a bid more than a decade ago by then-Attorney General Terry
Goddard to give the governor the power to declare a “supply emergency.’’ That would have required not only a finding that a product was in danger of being in short supply but also that it was “essential to the health, safety and welfare of the people of this state.’’ The governor was undeterred. “We’ve consulted with attorneys,’’ Ducey said. Meanwhile, lawmakers approved an emergency $50 million infusion into the Department of Health Services for whatever the director says she needs to combat COVID-19. The Legislature also is looking to limit public access at the Capitol, including closing off the House and Senate gallery, ending things like visits of school children, and seeking to limit committee testimony to the extent possible. Christina Corieri, the governor’s health advisor, said she reads that authority to prosecute price gouging exists under state
laws allowing the Attorney General’s Office to investigate consumer fraud. But Ryan Anderson, a top aide to Attorney General Mark Brnovich, said that’s not true. “Arizona does not have laws prohibiting price gouging or charging high prices in times of emergency or heightened public health concerns,’’ he told Capitol Media Services. He said the laws cited by the governor’s office deal with things like fraud, deceptive practices, false promises or misrepresentation in the sale or advertising or merchandise. Ducey’s declaration came just hours after legislative Democrats asked the governor to declare a special session – to run concurrent with the regular session they are now in – to approve more far-reaching proposals. These include creating funds to pay
see DUCEY page 13
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Gov. Dough Ducey and state Health Difrector Cara Christ briefed reporters on the virus several times last week. (Capitol Media Services)
DUCEY from page 12
for mandatory testing, providing for free evaluation and testing for those without health insurance, and creating a fund to pay for sick leave for public employees under quarantine or sick. The governor, however, said he was taking a much more measured approach, saying the problems in Arizona are not that severe, at least not now. “These are proactive measures to limit community spread,’’ he said, situations where people who have no known contact with anyone who was ill still contract the disease. For example, he said, there is no evidence that any of the two confirmed cases and seven suspected cases were in nursing homes and long-term care facilities. “If that happened, we want DHS to be equipped to act immediately, and with urgency,’’ Ducey said. He also said his executive order is designed to “do more to protect vulnerable populations.’’ Christ said the situation remains fluid. “We are constantly monitoring the local, national and global activities so that we can make data-driven decisions that protect our communities while having as
minimal an impact on Arizonans’ daily lives as possible,’’ she said. That, Christ said, fits into the decision to not cancel mass gatherings. “We are working right now with the CDC on brand-new community mitigation guidance they just put out,’’ she said. “And we are not at a point where we would recommend those things,’’ Christ continued. “But we are constantly evaluating to see if those measures do make sense.’’ Christ said that the provisions easing licensing requirements is designed to provide more flexibility to meet changing health needs. For example, she said, a health care facility licensed for a certain number of beds might have space where it could house additional patients. She also said her department could waive requirements for “overwhelmed’’ doctors to complete their requirements for continuing education. But Christ said nothing in the order allows someone to engage in medical practices beyond their scope. So even with a nurse could not perform the duties of a doctor.
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NEWS
VIRUS from page 1
on supplies. While Cactus League baseball season came to an abrupt end with the cancellation of a week’s worth of games and some area event organizers were considering what to do about their engagements, the primary focus centered around elderly – who comprise one of the higher risks for death or serious illness. Senior living communities in Gilbert were already implementing measures to protect their residents. Eternal Spring of Gilbert, an assisted-living facility that opened last year on Williams Field Road, posted on its Facebook page it was reviewing its infection-control practices. “We want to be two steps ahead as we monitor changes in COVID-19 and flu season in the United States,” its message said. Brookdale North Gilbert and LivGenerations Agritopia both said they were following CDC guidance for their employees and residents. “The key here is to stay nimble and watch this virus closely…and make changes to the protocol as necessary,” said Scott McCutcheon, LivGenerations COO. McCutcheon said the company also has stockpiled cleaning supplies, hand sanitizer and invested in machines that mists common areas with sanitizer. Brookdale said its main focus was prevention. “We are acting with an abundance of caution, reinforcing our policies and procedures for contagious illnesses such as influenza with staff,” the company statement read. “ Brookdale also has a corporate emergency response team in place to provide support to the local teams, especially in the event of a confirmed case of COVID-19. Brookdale was curtailing group visits except for family members, suspending outings for residents and doing multiple checks daily for symptoms of the virus. LivGenerations also canceled all community-sponsored outings for residents and implemented a screening process at its concierge desks to keep an eye out for visitors showing signs of illness. The town of Gilbert also is taking precautions with its Senior Center and other public buildings. “We have increased the cleaning and
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
disinfecting of high-traffic areas, door handles, phones, and other frequently touched surfaces in our recreation centers and public buildings,” said Jessica Bautista, town spokeswoman. “We are following the CDC’s recommendations on cleaning and disinfecting. Hand-washing reminders have been hung in the restrooms and hand sanitizer is available to all patrons.” Bautista said with the week-long rain last week it was difficult to gauge if the fear of the virus had dropped attendance at the Senior Center. “Inclement weather has always kept the seniors away,” she said. “Unfortunately, it’s too hard for us to say if the decline is COVID-19 or just Arizona rain.” Anne Marie McArthur, executive director of the volunteer group About Care, which assists elderly and other people who are unable to easily leave their homes in Chandler, Queen Creek and Gilbert because of age or disabilities, said neither the group’s clients nor volunteers have expressed much concern about the virus. “Surprisingly we haven’t heard from our volunteers or clients about any concerns regarding the virus,” she said. “Appointments are still being scheduled and picked up by our volunteers,” she said. “Things may change in the future, but for right now, it is business as usual, which we are happy about. “Our services help our neighbors meet their basic needs, reduce isolation and remain in their homes. I would be so worried about them if we couldn’t provide these services. “Obviously, we can help in other ways if isolation becomes part of the scheme, such as get their groceries or medications, call to make sure they are ok,” said McArthur, adding that she desperately needs additional volunteers, who can register at aboutcare.org. Mary Lynn Kasunic, president/CEO of the Area Agency on the Aging Region 1, expressed the same observations. Her agency contracts with 42 subcontractors to provide services to senior citizens and provides funding to Gilbert for its senior center. “We don’t seem to be hearing much in the way of any concerns,” she said, adding senior centers like Gilbert’s have not re-
ported any decrease in attendance. She said her agency has been sharing communications from the CDC and other government health agencies with agency contractors. While Avondale and Buckeye closed its senior centers, Kasunic said those in Gilbert, Mesa and Chandler remained open. Kasunic said that seniors who visited senior centers for “congregant meals” would receive meals at home or can pick up meals to go at the centers if group meals are suspended. Kasunic said not many people have called the agency’s 24-hour hotline for seniors and the calls that have come in came largely from people who didn’t want to go out in public to do grocery shopping. But she said people must qualify for agency-provided meals and that involves a visit by a case manager, eliminating the prospect that anyone can simply call to arrange for a meal pickup or delivery. Right now, Kasunic said, the bigger concern involves seniors who are isolated. She said Meals on Wheels volunteers check on seniors who live alone and get meals delivered. But for those who don’t, she added, the agency’s 50 AmeriCorps workers will be calling them to make sure they’re alright. “It’s important we call so they know someone cares about them,” she said. Meanwhile, the town does have an Emergency Operations Plan in place, which includes work-from-home protocols to help reduce interruptions in the delivery of town services to the public. Bautista said the Council meetings will continue as scheduled but the “meet-andgreet with candidates for the next Council meeting will be canceled.” Valley Metro has guidelines it will continue to use under the outbreak for Paratransit and RideChoice, services for qualified seniors and people with disabilities. Valley Metro also has upped its cleaning and disinfecting of its fleet and public spaces. The protocol includes having sanitizers, masks, cleaning kits and gloves for its drivers for use at their own discretion “So, should someone get ill, they would be able to clean it up and sanitize and take a vehicle out of service to get it cleaned,” a spokeswoman said. “It’s the normal
course of business.” For RideChoice contractors, they also have protocols they are required to follow, she added. Uber, which is contracted to provide RideChoice service, announced it has a team in place that is available around the clock to support public health authorities in their response to the epidemic. Uber also stated it was working to provide drives with disinfectants to help them keep their cars clean and asking drivers diagnosed with COVIC-19 to self-isolate. At the other end of the age spectrum, the two school districts in Gilbert said they also have plans in place to deal with the coronavirus. While higher education such as Arizona State University and University of Arizona announced last week that they were moving classes to online to avoid “community spread” of the coronoavirus, local school districts aren’t ready to follow suit yet. GPS district spokeswoman Dawn Antestenis said, “The situation is fluid and we are monitoring everything very closely, If anything changes we will update our parents and families immediately via text and email.” Both districts have said they would follow advisories from governmental agencies regarding school closures and the State Education Department on how to provide learning should a closure take place.
FINDING ANSWERS For latest information on the coronavirus or COVID-19:
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html • Arizona Department of Public Health Services, https://www.azdhs.gov/ • Maricopa County Public Health Department, https://www.maricopa. gov/5302/Public-Health • For up-to-date information on possible closure and plans for schools; Gilbert Public School, https://www. gilbertschools.net/ and Higley Unified School District, https://www.husd.org/ • For seniors who may need assistance, call Area Agency on the Aging 24-hour hotline, 602-264-4357
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agency. He also serves on the town Planning Commission. Simon said he will be a good steward of the town’s vision and has the ability to look at issues with an open mind and make calculated decisions based on facts and not emotions. “I am a team player and always willing to roll up my sleeves, get my hands dirty and get the job done,” stated Simon, who
is engaged. He indicated he would like to serve longer than the nine months and asked the Council to consider him for two likely upcoming appointments for seats each with two years on their terms. William “Bill” Spence: A 10-year resident and retired U.S. Navy lieutenant commander with experience that in-
cludes overseeing $1 billion of maintenance and modernization. The Arizona native said his skills include team player and relentless drive to find solutions and ability to accomplish very mission with limited resources. Spence indicated he is collecting signatures to run for the seat’s two-year term.
“One of the reasons many of us moved to Gilbert is because we loved the wonderful feeling of a close-knit, small-town community,” she said. “HDSOUTH is working hard to provide a variety of civic, educational, arts and cultural activities that bring together families, neighbors and friends and help us maintain that sense of community,” Hesse added. Business owners echo the sentiment. “Arts and culture is key to a vibrant community and that is what HDSOUTH will provide, for all ages,” said Severson, who owns Bushtex, a telecommunications company in Gilbert. “Arts and culture are the foundation of any town and what keeps its foundation whole,” she observed. “We will need it to give us a respite from all the ‘noise’ technology and social media tend to provide.” To that end, the society embraced a Communities for All Ages concept in 2016, an inter-generational programming model that brings the generations together for their mutual benefit. Since then, it has organized new programming such as history and science cafes, art workshops, storytelling, bluegrass jams and cultural workshops. Mostly free of charge or with nominal dues, the programs are attracting an increasing stream of participants. Its success means that the facility is running out of space and has to compete with the compound’s Neely Community Room, which is rented to bring much-needed income to the center. In 2017, the center rebranded to reflect its new focus: the Gilbert Historical Museum became HDSOUTH, drawing on its location as the southern gateway to the Heritage District.
Constructed in 1913 as Gilbert’s elementary school, the building has been a repository for Gilbert’s history since 1982 and retains the role as the town’s history keeper. It is also the town’s only building listed on the National Register of Historic Places; hence, preservation is key. But the model of small history museums is not sustainable in the current climate of innovation and technology as evinced by the closure of many history museums around the country, including the Valley’s own Phoenix History Museum a few years ago. The building in Gilbert also lacks accessibility for the disabled, another shortcoming. A new building is critical to the ongoing sustainability of the organization and its programming, Kolar said. The Town of Gilbert extends $50,000 annually for its operations and the balance funds are generated by grants and fundraising. The signature gala held in the courtyard this year netted nearly $80,000, the highest yet. The $2 million commitment includes new construction, renovation and infrastructure updates to the complex. Current plans call for the construction of a 6,000 square-foot, single-story multi-purpose building in the courtyard space that will host programs, exhibits and rentals. The remaining courtyard then will be redesigned and upgraded and serve for outdoor entertainment, classes, and rentals for meetings and weddings. The project also would preserve the older building and remodel some of the existing exhibit spaces for programs. During the past few years, many have been working behind the scenes to re-
search the project’s feasibility. At the time, the center was working toward a $5 million campaign. “The results came back and they said ‘we love everything you’re doing, but $5 m scares us,’” Kolar said. “We lowered the amount to $2 million.” During the quiet phase of the campaign, they approached founding families, community leaders, foundations, corporations and other entities for support. Grants were also obtained. “Now that more people are aware of the plans and the capital campaign, I think we will see many others contribute to this important community project,” said Hesse, a professor at Arizona State University, adding: “We set an ambitious, self-imposed deadline and we may not make our full goal by then, but it has pushed us to move forward faster than most people could have imagined.” Many feel that the balance funding may be easier after groundbreaking. “Once you break ground, it always generates more fundraising because people have something to see. You can take them out there and show them, once it’s happening, and that creates more people willing to give,” Kolar said. However, Severson is cautious about the rest of the year, with the looming focus on federal and local elections. “There are a lot of fundraising campaigns going on,” she said. “It is my hope that we get to our goal before the end of this year.” HDSOUTH is selling commemorative bricks to raise funds for its building and renovation project. Bricks cost $125 for 4x8 inches, $250 for 8x8 inches and $1,000 for a 16x16 inch mosaic. Details: hdsouth.org
HDSOUTH
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Unusual ‘earth bus’ visiting Mesquite High BY KRISTINE CANNON GSN Staff Writer
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hen Air Force veteran Donald Jacques parked the 84-passenger school bus in front of his Scottsdale home in March 2017, his neighbors weren’t too pleased. “I had three or four neighbors come down, and they raised a big stink. They did not like the bus,” Jacques said. “Of course, back then, I didn’t have the panels on yet. The lettering wasn’t on it. It looked like a big, black prison bus, and they didn’t want it here.” What Jacques’ neighbors didn’t know was exactly what that school bus was to become: the EarthSeed Mobile Analog Sustainability Habitat (MASH), a completely off-grid sustainable habit. On Saturday, March 21, EarthSeed will
MASH is a converted 84-passenger school bus that features a 200-gallon fishpond, 32-square-feet of media garden, and 96 square feet of vertical wall garden. (Chris Mortenson/GSN Staff Photographer)
be making its third visit to Mesquite High School. “SpaceX gave me the idea on their website,” Jacques said. “If you go to the Falcon 9 page, and you go to the bottom right corner where they showed the fairing, they put a picture of a school bus inside the fairing to show how big the fairing is. That was inspiration for me.” Over two years, Jacques equipped the bus with a 200-gallon fish pond, 32-square-feet of media garden and 96-square-feet of vertical wall garden that a couple of weeks ago has about 20 plant varieties, from tomatoes, broccoli, and cauliflower to strawberries, lavender, parsley, and much more. “I’m really proud,” Jacques said of the garden. “This is my fourth planting trying
see EARTHSEED page 22
Gilbert teen is a state champ in oratory GET OUT STAFF
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sha Anthony may not be ready to realize her goal of running for public office, but she demonstrated recently that she has the oratorical chops to sway voters. The Gilbert teen, a senior at Desert Ridge High School, recently was crowned state champ in her division for original oratory in the state speech and debate championship tournament. That made Asha Desert Ridge High’s first state champion in speech and debate, according to Marco A. Domínguez, the school’s speech and debate coach. “Asha made it ranked first out of the three preliminary rounds, which guaranteed she broke into semifinals,” he said. “Then a good performance got her a spot into finals with competitors that have won
Asha Anthony wears her medal after winning the state championship for oratory, holding the charter with final round scores. (Special to GSN)
at various tournaments this season. She left with the top score in the final round and secured the win.” Though only a member of Desert Ridge’s Forensics: Speech and Debate Team since her junior year, Asha said she’s loved Congressional Debate in her classes, so she was a contestant in the state tourney for that and oratory. “I definitely enjoy it, but I didn’t think I’d be all that good in oratory,” she said. Asha and her twin sister Alie are both on the team. Alie competed in the state finals in Dramatic Interpretation. In the oratory competition, Asha – who topped 48 competitors – had 10 minutes to give a speech that she had researched, written, memorized and practiced for weeks. She opted to speak on how society ignored the high homicide and incarcera-
tion rates among people of color in the LGBT community. Speech and Debate holds 16 different events at the state tournament that each produce a state champion along with team awards. Now, Asha is preparing for the national qualifier tournament on March 19-21. Winners get invited to the 2020 National Speech and Debate Association National Tournament in Albuquerque, New Mexico, this summer. “It is my third year coaching and we’re hoping that this win pushes us into having our third consecutive year going to nationals,” Dominguez said. With a 3.4 cumulative grade point average, Asha plans to attend Howard University, which already has given her two
see ORATORY page 23
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Swinging into spring
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PHOTOS BY CHRIS MORTENSON/GSN STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER The Phoenix Children’s Hospital fundraiser Spring Fling sponsored by BackFit Health and Spine and Gilbert Pain Solutions on Feb. 29 brought out kids and teens and even included a Backfit Health and Biggest Superstar Talent Contest. Among those who got an early head start on spring were: 1) Miriam Elliot and her dog Pepper; 2) face-painting by Anna; 3) Peyton Hengen, who got a face-painting; 4) Piper Silverman and an unidentified child; 5) 10-year-old Autumn Wedge singing her heart out; 6) the Actors Youth Theatre; 7) Maddox Briggs; 8) aspiring golf pro Logan; 9) Abigail Johnson; and 10) Viktoria Estela.
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PHOTOS BY CHRIS MORTENSON/GSN STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER “The Great Outdoor Adventure” last weekend at the Riparian Preserve in Gilbert offered young and old alike a chance to learn about nature, courtesy of the Gilbert Paqrks and Recreation Department and including 1) Dorris Peterson of Liberty Wildlife Rescue and Bandit; 2) Lexi Perry; 3) Logan Young; 4) Lynne Dyer of the Mineralogical Society of Arizona; 5) Theresa Lawrence, left, and Anissa Lovin; 6) Kay and Paula; 7) Taylor Pomeroy and Connor Pomeroy; 8) Nichole Betz riding high; 9) Ally Christianson and Jill Woods; and 10) Quinton Craft.
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EARTHSEED from page 19
to get things to work, and we’re doing a lot better.” The bus also has solar panels that produce 2,400 watts of power – “which is about a third of an Arizona house,” Jacques explained during our tour – and is equipped with 12 batteries that, when fully charged, provide about 16 hours of power. Jacques built a tiny home prototype in 2014, purchased the bus in 2017 and turned EarthSeed into a nonprofit that same year. A year later, the bus hit the road visiting Arizona schools, including Mesquite High, and has visited festivals around the Valley. “We had over 500 people come to the bus that day,” Jacques said of SouthWest Maker Fest, referring to a Mesa event last month. “Most people are absolutely shocked that you can put this kind of stuff in this kind of a space.” Jacques said many students and visitors are initially attracted to the fishpond and then the garden in the back of the bus. “As far as sustainability goes, it shows
Donald Jacques is the owner of Don the HandyDuck and CEO of nonprofit organization EarthSeed, Incorporated. EarthSeed celebrates its third year presenting the EarthSeed bus or Mobile Analog Sustainability Habitat (MASH), a completely off-grid sustainable habit. (Chris Mortenson/Progress Staff Photographer)
people you can put an entire garden like this and fish pond in your basement and grow enough food for your family. It’s actually possible,” Jacques said. “One of the goals of the bus is to be able to feed as many as four people on a regu-
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lar basis,” he added. During tours, Jacques has hands-on activities for the students, like planting seeds in recyclable egg cartons, and the students are given an activity booklet to complete later. “In our first two events, we have touched more people than Mars Desert Research Station did in two years,” Jacques said. “You see the light go off with the kids, and they start seeing the connections and discovering where food comes from,” he added. “I spent several years as a teacher, and I loved it because when that light bulb goes off, it’s like the flood gates open and they start seeing potential and they start getting ideas of their own and they start looking at what they can do.” And as Jacques continues to schedule visits, MASH continues to be an ongo-
ing research vehicle in food production, waste processing, water filtering and recycling, and power production and management. “We can drive to schools, visit museums, libraries, taking our research, and results with us,” Jacques said. This year, Jacques has plans to get a freshwater system in place, install two sinks, a composting toilet, and a shower; set up and get algae tanks up and running; set up garden No. 2; and then build a chicken coop. “The chickens are the last big piece,” Jacques said. “We’ll actually have chickens and eggs inside of the bus. We’re only planning maybe four or five chickens.” Exposing and educating the public on sustainability is important to Jacques. “Our mission is to build the methodology, and technology to survive, thrive, and grow beyond this Earth,” he said. “We show methodologies that can be applied in school and at home to inspire them to action that could have an impact ... on our settlements in space.” But Jacques’ overall goal, he said, is to be on the fourth mission to the moon. “EarthSeed actually goes beyond just sustainability in that we want to be able to live on the moon, on Mars, the other four destinations and get them settled within the next 50 years,” he said. Jacques added: “EarthSeed’s goal is to actually become like the underground railroad did during the Civil War and actually funnel people that want to go and live in on the moon and Mars. We want to start that. To do that, though, we’ve got to have a methodology.” Information: earthseed.space
ANSWERS TO PUZZLES AND SUDOKU on Page 35
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ORATORY from page 19
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scholarships that cover her tuition, room and board and most other expenses. She plans to get her degree in Strategic, Legal and Management Communication, a sophisticated undergrad program that the Washington, D.C. university describes as a program to “promote the study and practice of communicating effectively within institutional, corporate, organizational, legal, social, intercultural and interpersonal contexts.” That way, she hopes, it will enable her to achieve her real dream – running for public office. While she initially had thought of getting a law degree, she said the last two years changed her mind. “There’s so much division in the country now, and I want to help change that,” Asha said.
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BUSINESS
Business
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
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‘Smart gym’ in Gilbert boasts scientific design GSN NEWS STAFF
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handler residents Dwight and Adrina Lavender recently opened The Exercise Coach, a high-tech fitness “smart-gym” in Gilbert. Although neither one has a background in exercise science, they plan to open a second franchise location in Ahwatukee in spring 2021. “I decided to launch an Exercise Coach franchise because I’ve always enjoyed helping individuals and organizations reach their goals and I find I make a great coach, both personally and professionally,” Dwight said. “In addition, I had a good friend who passed away at 46 years old from a heart attack. I love the Exercise Coach’s approach to fitness in catering to people who, like my
Dwight Lavender says the Exercise Coach gym in Gilbert takes the guesswork of of working out, giving clients a better handle on what exercise is doing for them. (Special to GSN)
friend, don’t find themselves in a traditional gym environment. Just like my friend, I find many people are not motivated by traditional fitness and personal training strategies, and as a result, are simply not taking care of themselves on a regular basis.” The Exercise Coach was founded in 2000 and began franchising in 2011. It currently has approximately 70 studios nationwide. The Exercise Coach is at 1166 S. Gilbert Road, Suite 104. Dwight’s last corporate role was head of field human resources for Sprint Corp. He also provides leadership and HR consulting and tutors elementary school-aged children in computer coding, English, math and study skills. He said he planned to continue tutoring in his spare time while oper-
see
GYM page 26
Gilbert lawmaker opposes cage-free egg bill BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services
A
rizona shoppers could end up having to pay more for eggs as state lawmakers look to protect the state’s major producer from an animal rights initiative drive. And it’s not making Gilbert lawmaker Travis Grantham happy. Legislation given preliminary approval Tuesday by the state House would mandate, beginning next year, major egg-laying operations has to provide at least one square foot of space for each hen instead of the current standard of 66 square inches. The real change would be in 2025 when the affected companies would have to go to cage-free operations. This can – but does not have to – mean actually allowing them outdoors. More significant, HB 2724 would pre-
Rep. Travis Grantham of Gilbert said the state should not kowtow to special interest groups at the expense of Arizona consumers when it comes to cage-free hens. (GSN file photo)
clude the sale of eggs in Arizona not coming from cage-free hens. This prospect concerned Chelsea McGuire who lobbies for the Arizona Farm Bureau Federation. During a committee hearing, she told lawmakers a local grocery chain was charging $2.59 a dozen for cage-free eggs. By contrast, those without the designation were selling for $1.49. “That is the kind of price increase that Arizona consumers will not have a choice
to avoid if this legislation goes forward,’’ McGuire said. Rep. Travis Grantham, R-Gilbert, wasn’t buying it. And he had a warning for Hickman and others who are backing HB 2724 based on the promises of the Humane Society. “It’s very dangerous for us to cow to an organization that is not going to stop (its efforts) by trying to insert into law their demands and then hope they go away,’’ he said. Grantham also worried about the costs to Arizona consumers. But the federation found itself up against Hickman’s Family Farms, the state’s largest producer. Company president Glenn Hickman said it’s not that he particularly wants new state regulation of how he does business. But he said the potential alternative
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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
was worse: the threat of an initiative by the Humane Society of the United States which, if approved by voters, would mandate cage-free production on a much more aggressive schedule. “We don’t want to see a proposition come to this state and leave us out of the process,’’ Hickman said. And this, he said, is hardly a far-fetched possibility. His prime exhibit was Proposition 204. That 2006 ballot measure pushed by the Humane Society, which is unrelated to local humane societies, outlawed the use of “gestation crates’’ to confine calves and pigs. Hickman called it just “pure luck’’ that his laying hens weren’t part of that successful initiative.
Kellye Pinkleton, senior state director of Humane Society, told Capitol Media Services that her organization worked with Hickman’s firm to come up with this compromise. “And if this bill were to become law, we would have no interest in pursuing new Arizona legislation regarding egg-laying hens,’’ she said. “This is a truce,’’ said Hickman’s lobbyist Joe Sigg. Hickman told lawmakers that the price is set by retailers. But during a committee hearing he provided no specifics on the price difference he charges retailers between cage-free and other eggs. Rep. Geraldine ‘Gerae’ Peten, D-Goodyear, said she feared that the law would
create a de facto duopoly for Hickman’s and Rose Acre Farms, the other major producer, with the prohibition against the sale of eggs from caged hens. But Hickman said that eggs “travel very well’’ and out-of-state operations with cage-free operations would remain free to ship their eggs here. Small egg producers with fewer than 3,000 hens also would be locked out of the Arizona commercial market. While they would be exempt from the requirement for cage-free operations they would not be able to sell their eggs to commercial groceries. But Dunn said they would remain free to offer their eggs at places like farmers’ markets. Rep. David Cook, R-Globe, said his objec-
tions were more basic. “Why does government need to get involved in private business decisions?’’ he asked. Cook, who is a cattle rancher, said those in his industry manage to come up with certification standards, such as for grassfed beef, without any state mandate. McGuire took issue with the whole premise that cage-free hens are happier hens. She said conventional cages “make sure that chickens and safe and healthy.’’ And she argued that the mortality rate among cage-free hens is twice that of those confined to cages. The measure still needs a final roll-call vote before going to the Senate.
ating his new business. Adrina will keep her full-time job as a senior operations leader for Amazon.com while helping market and develop the franchise. The Gilbert Sun News asked Dwight about the new business.
Q: Why did you choose Gilbert for your first location? A: “We live in Chandler, but chose Gilbert as our first location because of the strong infrastructure here, the wonderful people, the continued economic growth, our great location in the Gilbert Town Square shop-
ping center and the incredible opportunity to be a part of this diverse and thriving community.” Q: The company states it targets 50 and over consumers but Gilbert is generally a young family community. A: Actually, The Exercise Coach caters to
several demographic groups: Busy professionals who don’t have time to work out five to seven days per week for an hour each time; People over age 40, not necessarily over
GYM from page 25
see
GYM page 27
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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
GYM from page 26
age 50; People with existing injuries who don’t want them to be made worse by traditional equipment; People who don’t like the “meat market” aspect of traditional gyms – more like a dating service; People who don’t enjoy working out or are overwhelmed by the machines – don’t work out often and don’t know how much weight to use, etc. Q: Who is typical consumer at this location? A: “Approximately 80 percent of our clients are over the age of 45 and 61 percent of them are over 55.” Q: So each member is overseen by a coach for a one-to-one session each time? A: “There are two options available and they are priced accordingly. Each member is overseen by a coach for one-on-one sessions each time or if a member opts for group training sessions, a trainer directly assists no more than four members per session. In the group training sessions, all members are simultaneously working out
A: “In 2014, Brian Cygan, The Exercise Coach’s founder and CEO acquired Exerbotics hightech computerized machines that replaced weight stacks with electromagnetic resistance. When new members join our fitness centers, they receive a unique code. “When the trainer plugs in the code, the client’s workout adjusts to the client’s strengths and weaknesses in real-time. If the client does well in one session, the machine remembers and makes the movement harder for him or her the next time. “So, clients are constantly being challenged and literally compete against themselves. Because the The Exercise Coach gym in Gilbert offers an array of digital devices that enab;le people to see the immediate impact of their exerworkouts are optimized and cuscises on key bodily functions like heart rate. (Special to GSN) tomized to each client, no time is wasted and the risk of injury is decreased versus the “one size fits on different pieces of equipment so no one yet medical experts advise a goal of 30 is stuck waiting while equipment is in use.” minutes of moderate physical activity at all” approach with traditional gym equipQ: The Exercise Coach touts two, least five days a week. So how effective is see GYM page 28 20-minute workout sessions a week the gym?
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GYM from page 27
ment. “This program is based on building up ‘type-two muscle fibers,’ which weaken as people age. These workouts provide muscle quality over muscle movement. The Exercise Coach combines bioadaptive exercise technology with the guidance of certified coaches. “This data-driven equipment provides real-time digital feedback with computer-controlled resistance. The Exercise Coach offers highly personalized programs resulting in only two 20-minute workouts per week and can’t be matched in effectiveness with even seven days a week of traditional exercise.” Q: How does the gym accommodate those with physical limitations? A: “One way The Exercise Coach accommodates people with physical limitations is built into the Exerbotics equipment itself. When new clients first arrive at The Exercise Coach, they do a strengths assessment and a range of motion test. “The machines then use this data to create a baseline for each client. The ma-
chines will not exceed a safe, but challenging resistance mathematically determined for each client. This takes the guesswork out of deciding how much weight to use, as the machines themselves are hydraulic – there are no weights. “As a client’s strength begins to change over time, we re-test these baseline measurements so the workouts are always challenging and helping our clients to continue improving. Correspondingly, we also have the ability to adjust ranges of motion or complete different protocols on the machines to address ongoing physical limitations or injuries that might have kept clients from working out in the past in conventional gym environments.” Q: How is the “smart gym” better than conventional gyms? A: “Our workouts replace quantity with quality. The key to maximizing fitness results is optimized exercise dosing. While athletes respond to just about any kind, or amount, of training because of gifted genetics, most of us have a narrower window of opportunity.
“For the average person, more exercise volume does not equate to better results and too much exercise leads to over-training, injury and burnout. The healthier and more productive approach is to exercise smarter, not longer. This is difficult with traditional strength training tools because they have inherent dangers and inefficiencies. “Dumbbells, bands and balls don’t have the ability to work intelligently with human biomechanics and muscle physiology. On any given exercise an individual’s force-producing capacity varies greatly. “Traditional exercise tools deliver too much load when an exerciser moves through weaker points in the range of motion, and too little resistance at the exerciser’s stronger points in the range of motion. This mismatch greatly reduces exercise effectiveness and promotes improper form. “The Exercise Coach approach is to combine our understanding of exercise science with 21st-century technologies to create protocols congruent with each individual’s strength profile. In addition, our equipment provides constant com-
puter feedback to increase motivation and determination. Our approach stimulates dramatically better results for men and women of all ages.” Q: What other amenities are there? A: “The Exercise Coach is considered a boutique-fitness concept. Therefore, other than cardio-focused Sci-Fit Pro 2 and Elliptical machines; 360 degree and multi-functional training machines; and strength training Exerbotics machines, bathrooms and a small locker/changing area, no other amenities exist at The Exercise Coach. This is by design. “Our 1,200- to 2,000-square-foot fitness studios are designed for people to get in, do their workout and get on with their day.” Q: What is the pricing for membership? A: “Our one-on-one rates vary based on commitment and range from $35-$49 per session, which is considerably lower than the national average for one-on-one personal training. Our small-group training rates range from $22-$25 per session for a maximum coach/client ratio of 1:4.” Information: : exercisecoach.com.
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OPINION
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
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Valley rail connections drive economic success BY TODD SANDERS GSN Guest Writer
F
reight trains often fly under the radar in the Valley’s transportation landscape. But those locomotives that are so thoroughly intertwined with America’s origins are still a big part of the American success story – with 140,000 miles of track connecting businesses and consumers coastto-coast and across the world. Phoenix has direct access to two Class I railroads, UP and BNSF, and Tucson houses a bustling inland port with freight rail connections that give the region’s businesses overland access to major ocean shipping lanes. Across Arizona, 12 freight railroads haul about 129 million tons of freight annually. A better way to picture all this freight: it’s the equivalent of 7.2 million trucks that would
otherwise be on our roadways. While rail is just one piece of the intermodal network of trains, trucks, ships and planes that delivers 54 tons of goods for every American each year, it stands out for a couple of reasons. First, freight railroad companies operate and invest into the nationwide rail network almost completely through their own private spending – i.e. a user-pay model. While taxpayers help to subsidize other transportation modes like roads and waterways, freight rail reinvests 40 cents out of every dollar earned back into maintenance and expansion. That works out to about $25 billion annually over the last several years, more than most state departments of transportation spend on highways. Nationally, this spending supports 1.1 million jobs across the economy. Likewise, America’s freight railroads
stand out for being the best in the world as measured by safety, productivity and cost. They demonstrate what happens when infrastructure is fully funded, including the fact that shippers today can move twice the amount of freight for about half of what it cost in 1980. When railroads spend their private dollars to deploy new technologies, add intermodal facilities, enhance track capacity, etc., it means Phoenix-area businesses can move more freight for less time, less money. Railroads also relieve the burden on taxpayer-funded roadways, cutting down on both congestion and pollution. The freight rail success story is predicated on a public policy success story that is in question today. The rail industry’s economic regulator, the U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB), is considering several new rail reg-
ulations that could chip away at the goals of a balanced system that restored railroads from the brink of failure decades ago. Policymakers should ensure that STB regulators continue allowing railroads to earn enough to reinvest and keep Phoenix economic arteries healthy. Their regulatory approach should also consider the larger transportation landscape and avoid favoring one mode of transport over another. The freight railroad model is one that can serve our officials in D.C. well: avoid overregulation, promote infrastructure investment and ask infrastructure users to pay for what they use. These principles will help keep the Phoenix economy and its freight rail connections chugging along. - Todd Sanders is the president/CEO of the Greater Phoenix Chamber.
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*2016 and 2017 **Average tuition after scholarships is approximately $8,700. Scholarships may be awarded based on 6th semester transcripts. At the time in which final, official transcripts are received, GCU reserves the right to rescind or modify the scholarship if it is determined that eligibility was not achieved. GCU reserves the right to decline scholarship awards for any reason. If a student does not meet the minimum renewal criteria, their scholarship will be forfeited. GCU reserves the right to change scholarship awards at any time without notice. If a student does not meet the minimum renewal criteria, their scholarship will be forfeited. Prices based on 2018-19 rate and are subject to change. † GCU students graduate with less debt on average ($18,750 according to College Scorecard) than the average at public and private nonprofit universities ($28,650 according to 2017 data from the Institute for College Access and Success). For more information about the median debt of students who completed the program and other important information, please visit our website at gcu.edu/disclosures. Please note, not all GCU programs are available in all states and in all learning modalities. Program availability is contingent on student enrollment. Grand Canyon University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (800-621-7440; http://hlcommission. org/). Pre-licensure nursing students who begin or resume attendance in Fall 2020 and beyond will be ineligible to utilize most GCU institutional aid/scholarships for tuition and fees once accepted into the clinical portion of the program. Important policy information is available in the University Policy Handbook at https://www.gcu.edu/academics/ academic-policies.php. The information printed in this material is accurate as of JANUARY 2020. For the most up-to-date information about admission requirements, tuition, scholarships and more, visit gcu.edu. GCU, while reserving its lawful rights in light of its Christian mission, is committed to maintaining an academic environment that is free from unlawful discrimination. Further detail on GCU’s Non-Discrimination policies can be found at gcu.edu/titleIX. ©2020 Grand Canyon University 19GTR0965
Sports & Recreation
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
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New tradition building Perry baseball chemistry BY ZACH ALVIRA GSN Sports Editor
I
t’s a tradition that started in January during the College Football Playoff National Championship Game between LSU and Clemson. Members of the Perry baseball program all gathered at the house of senior outfielder Trenton Pallas. Sophomores up to those in the senior class were all invited over for food to watch two of the best college football programs in the country go at it on primetime. There was little baseball talk that night, as most, if not all in attendance focused on the game. But it allowed the team to bond and build a level of chemistry they hoped would trump that of the Perry teams in the past. “We had everyone over, and we were like, ‘why don’t we just do something like this every week?’” Pallas said. “On Fridays we will
Left: Perry baseball coach Damien Tippett has seen an improvement in his team’s chemistry this season, something he believes will help them down the line in a tough region. Middle: Perry senior Brycen Tambone is one of several players who have bought into the team’s mindset of playing together. Right: Perry senior Trenton Pallas hosts team dinner every Monday at his house, which brings all players closer together to exceed on the field. (Zach Alvira/GSN Staff)
also have a team dinner but at a random player’s house. “So, we get together to start the week and end the week.”
Since that Jan. 13 night, the team has gathered at Pallas’ house every Monday. Sometimes the team eats steak, other times burgers. During their most recent team dinner
on Monday, March 9, Costco pizza was the food of choice. Mostly because it was “easy,” but also because Perry had just beaten Westwood in a power points game an hour prior to when team dinner was supposed to take place. On at least one occasion, they had breakfast for dinner. That drew a lot of positive reviews from players. “Breakfast was pretty good,” senior infielder Brycen Tambone said. “We can’t really expect a full course meal when we have a game the same night.” Tambone and Pallas both agreed that there is generally close to 30 minutes of baseball talk at the team dinner. Sometimes its pointers from seniors to the underclassmen, other times it revolves around Perry’s next opponent.
see PERRYpage 32
Mesquite baseball embracing underdog mentality BY MILLARD THOMAS GSN Staff Writer
H
ow the mighty have fallen. The mystique around Mesquite has evaporated this season after losing a 1-run nail biter to Salpointe Catholic in the championship just the year prior. Mesquite finished 28-5 last season, while being ranked second in the state to 6A champion Hamilton. So, how in one off-season did Mesquite go from a dominant juggernaut to a non-threatening team? The answer can be attributed to the departure of many talented seniors -- with right-handed pitcher Davis Heller committing to South Mountain Community College, first baseman TJ Clarkson committing to Utah, and outfielder Jacob Anderson going to Iowa among many others. Mesquite lost 12 seniors from the 19 total on the roster. When losing that many quality players in one year, it’s easy to lose your luster.
“Everybody expects us to lose. They [opponents] look at their schedule and put a ‘W’ next to our name anytime they see it,” said coach Jeff Holland With everyone doubting the Wildcats, they’re embracing the underdog mentality. They like the feeling of being underrated because it makes them even more motivated to leave no doubt on the scoreboard. “We try to turn a head and prove everybody wrong. We keep our foot on the gas pedal and once we get them down we don’t let them up,” said shortstop Thomas Vogiatzis. To play to the level the Wildcats envision, they can’t do it alone on their raw talent like they might have leaned on before. They have to do the little things that turn teams from winners to champions. “We have to play scrappy. Make the routine plays, get base hits, get timely hitting, just play the game the right way,” Vogiatzis said. Through the first month of baseball, the hitting hasn’t been coming in as frequently as Holland would like to see.
Left: Mesquite baseball coach Jeff Holland has taught his team to embrace an underdog mentality this season after losing 12 seniors from last year’s squad. Right: Mesquite senior shortstop Thomas Vogiatzis said he and the rest of his teammates are out to prove everybody wrong this season. (Millard Thomas/GSN Staff)
He believes his team has the pitching to keep them in ballgames but needs the offense to pick it up. With this year’s team earned run average (ERA) being lower than last season’s, the numbers agree.
One player who has not struggled offensively to start the year is outfielder Keeton Bell. In Bell’s first 17 at-bats of the season, he
see MESQUITE page 32
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PERRY from page 31
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
After that, they talk about what’s going on in each of their lives. From personal problems outside of school to anything they may have difficulties with inside the classroom, every player feels it is a safe place to vent about whatever is going on in their lives. “We just talk about life with each other, honestly,” Pallas said. “What’s new, friends, stuff like that. You can go to anybody on this team and they’ll help you out with whatever it is you’re going through. “Whenever you have to have a real talk with someone, anyone of us can help.” The ability for every player, regardless of age, to interact with one another is an aspect that has so far proven to be effective for the Perry baseball program. The Pumas’ win over Westwood on Monday helped them improve to 4-3-1 on the season.
Most importantly, it came after back-toback losses to nationally ranked Mountain Pointe and Queen Creek suffered the week prior. While still early in the season, Perry coach Damien Tippett has already seen improvement from last year’s team. Most notably, in the pitching staff. Perry relied heavily on its veteran pitchers in 2018. But with most of them departing due to graduation, it allowed younger players to step into starting roles on the mound. That resulted in a roller coaster of a season for Perry in 2019 but still finished above .500 at 15-11-1. The team finished the 2019 campaign with a 4.96 earned run average (ERA), a slight bump from the year prior. This year, while it hasn’t resulted in several wins yet,
Tippett has seen an uptick in confidence from his pitching staff on the mound. “All of those guys who took up those innings who struggled and threw a lot of pitches last year, they’re now more experienced,” Tippett said. “Kai Taylor last year, here would have thrown a lot of pitches early in an inning. Now he’s got a mindset of getting out of there in 15 pitches or less. “That’s the mindset of all the pitchers this year. That really helps out.” Tippett and his players believe they have enough talent to make a run in the postseason when the time comes. But he remains coy on not letting them get too ahead of themselves. Like most programs, he preaches “one pitch at a time” and to play for each other. So far, everyone on the team has bought
into that mindset. “We all have to play for the team and not ourselves,” Tambone said. “We all have to keep working week-by-week and day-byday.” They all know it will be what makes a difference down the line when the schedule grows increasingly tougher in region play. That’s when Perry will see the likes of Chandler, Basha, Brophy and top-5 nationally ranked Hamilton. But Tippett believes his team will be able to hang with the best of them, as long as they continue to build their chemistry both on and off the field. “They’re all pulling for each other. This is a close group of guys,” Tippett said. “They all hang out together. I think if they keep that chemistry rollin’, I’ll take it.”
had 9 hits with 4 RBI and 7 runs scored. When asked about his early season success and how it played a role in the team’s record, Bell couldn’t help himself from giving all the praise to his teammates: “I think everyone has stepped up this year. Everyone has had a big role in our success to start the season and we gotta
keep going,” Bell said. The line ‘Gotta keep going’ is a small microcosm into the philosophy at Mesquite High School as a whole. Holland said in all the years he has been at Mesquite the culture hasn’t changed. From the classroom to the field, it’s about doing everything with integrity and a stu-
dent’s complete commitment if they want to see desired results. The same was true with the baseball team because even though they lost a lot of talent and experience, the process wasn’t going to change. How they hold themselves and prepare one another for each game wasn’t going
to change. The only thing that changes are the players in the locker room. Not the spirit or philosophy of the team. When seeing almost all your top players move on to the next phase of their life, Mesquite has a saying to remind themselves it’s about the team and not the individual. “Tradition never graduates.”
MESQUITE from page 31
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Hot Club brings a special show to Tempe GETOUT STAFF
T
he Hot Club of San Francisco – which has been delighting audiences for 30 years with its blend of violin, bass and guitars – is Lakeshore Music’s next presentation at Tempe Center for the Arts. The group will perform at 7:30 p.m. March 21 at the center, 700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., in Tempe, presenting a show titled. “John, Paul, George and Django.” “There will be a healthy dose of the Fab Four with Hot Club’s unique twist,” said Woody Wilson, founder, president and executive producer of Lakeshore Music. “It will be like Dan Hicks & His Hot Licks colliding head-on with The Beatles.” To hear the Hot Club of San Francisco ensemble live, or on any of their 14 albums, is to be carried back to the 1930s and the small, smoky jazz clubs of Paris or the refined lounge of the Hotel Ritz. The Hot Club, which tours nationally and internationally, has gained a reputation for innovative arrangements of
gypsy jazz. Reinhardt is hailed among the greatest guitar players ever. Often overlooked, h o w e v e r, are his roots in gypsy culture and Paris of the 1920s. Reinhardt combined this influThe Hot Club of San Francisco is readying a big show at Tempe Center for Arts next Saturday. ence with (Special to GSN) American jazz to creclassic tunes and original compositions. ate music critics call both sentimental The musicians – Paul Mehling, Isabelle and flamboyant. Fontaine, Evan Price and Sam Rocha – “My father was a record collector. celebrate the music of Django Reinhardt I grew up with the music of Benny and Stephane Grappelli. Their contem- Goodman, Tommy Dorsey, Glenn Miller porary jazz and swing often are called and all the swing-era bands,” Mehling
explained. “I had an older sister who turned me on to rock ’n roll. “When I was 6, we saw The Beatles on Ed Sullivan and it was like getting hit by lightning. I said, ‘I wanna do that – make the girls scream and give people the buzz I get from hearing the music.’” “Then I heard Django,” Mehling continued. “Three guitars, bass and violin, and they sounded and acted like a rock band.” “When I was a teenager, I saw Dan Hicks & His Hot Licks and he was playing a contemporary blend of The Beatles and Django. I went to see them a lot and listened to their combination of rhythm guitar with jazz violin and tried to figure out how it worked.” Fontaine, born and raised in the French countryside, also was drawn to the gypsy swing of Reinhardt. Featuring the violin of two-time Grammy winner Price, the vocals of Fontaine and a swinging rhythm section enrich
not. I love competition. I’m too old to play sports anymore. I’m fat. I got out of shape. I can’t bend down to get a ground ball. Golf still keeps me competitive and it challenges myself. Every time I get on stage, I challenge myself to be funnier, to write better jokes.” As for his show, he calls it “PG-13” and filled with one-liners, the latter of which is a rarity these days. He said he enjoys jokes—how they’re written, the setup and the timing. As for comics who focus on politics or long, drawn-out stories, not so much. “I think everybody thinks they’re smarter than everybody else,” he said. “When I read Steve Martin’s book, back in the ’70s,
Vietnam was going on. They were having protests and all these comics were coming up. “Everybody was political. Steve Martin said he was going to be goofy, in the other direction—and it’s what he did. He went a completely different direction than the other guys were doing. Regardless, funny is funny. “There are comedians who I don’t like personally, but if they’re funny, I like their comedy. I’ve never not went out to see anybody because I didn’t like their politics.” The avid Atlanta Braves fan – who loves its legendary player Dale Murphy – has
see
HOT CLUB page 36
Larry the Cable Guy talks golf and new album BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI GetOut Editor
L
arry the Cable Guy is always “on.” He answers the phone, “Please hold for Larry the Cable Guy,” and quickly returns. “Ah, this was me all along,” he said with a hearty laugh. Born Daniel Whitney, Larry the Cable Guy is known for his line “Get-R-Done,” and his travels on the “Blue Collar Comedy Tour.” He’s coming to Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino in Chandler on Friday, March 20. “I love those casinos,” he said. “They’re good places to stay. They have good golf.”
He said he’s an “OK” golfer, as he got into it about 10 years ago. He’s trying to improve his scores, though. “I started out horribly, but I’ve been working hard at it. I have a 14 or 15 handicap,” he said. Larry the Cable Guy is definitely going to golf while he’s in Arizona, a state with a special place in his heart. Parsons Xtreme Golf (PXG) anointed him an ambassador and sent clubs to him. “Those clubs are unbelievable,” he said. “They really helped my golf game. They’re fitted really nicely, and they feel good. So, if I didn’t golf when I came to Arizona, it would be almost communist. “I’ve always been athletic, believe it or
see
CABLE page 36
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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
Fast Saga inspired FuelFest blends art, cars and music BY ANNIKA TOMLIN GetOut Writer
C
ars are a true artform. Inspired by “The Fast Saga,” FuelFest takes that into consideration. Now in its second year, the family-friendly festival blends autos— live-action drag and drift racing—with celebrities, live music, food, drinks and art. FuelFest comes to Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park on Saturday, April 4. “I created FuelFest because I absolutely love cars and I wanted to create a really cool experience for enthusiasts around the world to come on out and experience,” said co-founder/actor Cody Walker, the brother of the late Paul Walker. “I was influenced by my older brother Paul into the car scene. I’m much younger than him, so he had quite the impact in me and my love of cars.” FuelFest offers interactive exhibits and a VIP lounge with appearances by celebrities like Walker and “Fast and Furious”
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9 AM - 3 PM
star Tyrese Gibson. Walker wanted the show to pay tribute to Paul and benefit his charity, Reach Out WorldWide, which he founded in 2010 after a massive earthquake devastated Haiti. The charity’s mission is to fill the gap between the availability of skilled resources in post-disaster situations. “We’ve raised over $100,000 for ROWW since 2018,” Walker said. “I’m really proud of that.” FuelFest brings the passion of the auto-
FA L C O N F I E L D A I R P O RT
Open House • Free Admission & Parking
• Aviation Careers Information
• Airplanes & Helicopters • Classic Car Show & on Display Model Railroads • Historical Exhibits
• CAF Museum & Southwest Military Transport Show open 9 a.m.-4p.m. • Discount admission $5/person or $10/family of four
• Free Flight Simulators • Helicopter/Airplane Rides For Sale
motive community to major cities across the globe, showcasing and eclectic collection of modified, exotic and performance cars. It also features off-road cars and trucks as well as rare cars from various movies
and franchises. “My supporters and followers and I took a look at Phoenix and agreed there’s an incredible facility at Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park and there’s just a big enthusiast community there,” Walker said. He adds this multifaceted event is different than a regular static car show. “You’re seeing cars. You’re smelling the tire rubber. You’re hearing the cars going fast,” Walker said. “It’s just a surreal experience.”
The festival brings together the loves of art and the automotive world. “I’ve had the opportunity to meet a lot of really cool and amazing artists who are influenced by the automotive industry,” Walker said. “I thought it would be a really cool dynamic to bring both to the show.” FuelFest has had an effect on fans who have attended, he adds. “FuelFest dominated 2018 and 2019 when we took over L.A. and the U.K. with over 25,000 fans showing up to support,” Gibson said. “2020 is coming with more energy. FuelFest Phoenix is going to be unbelievable.”
IF YOU GO
What: FuelFest Where: Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, 20000 S. Maricopa Road, Chandler When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday April Tickets:tickets start at $20, VIP and drag/ drift racing tickets are available. Info: fuelfest.com
Sun Lakes Arts & Crafts Association
SHOW Saturday, March 21st, 9 am to 2 pm Oakwood Country Club 24218 S. Oakwood Blvd. • Sun Lakes www.slaca.net
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With JAN D’ATRI GetOut Contributor
This Motor City marvel grabs the checkered flag
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uddy’s Pizza in Detroit, Michigan is famous for its deep dish pizza with racing stripes. Instead of mozzarella, Buddy’s uses shredded jack cheese for an extra punch, and the stripes of pizza sauce go on top of the cheese instead of the bottom. It’s fun, and simple and delicious! To make this recipe even easier, I picked up some refrigerated pizza dough and pizza sauce from Trader Joe’s and decided to give this racing stripe recipe a test drive. This pizza takes the checkered flag.
Ingredients: 2 (16 oz) packages, refrigerated pizza dough (Trader Joe’s brand) 16 oz shredded Jack cheese 1 (12 oz) container refrigerated Pizza Sauce (Trader Joe’s near pizza dough) 1 (5 oz) package pepperoni (Volpi at Trader Joe’s) Red pepper flakes and Parmesan cheese for topping, if desired Directions: On a floured surface, combine the two packages of dough into one ball. Stretch out to fit a 9 x 13 inch baking sheet (also called a quarter sheet pan) or shallow casserole dish. With the pepperoni, make two racing stripes lengthwise. Spoon pizza sauce over the top of the pepperoni. Make one more racing stripe with just the pizza sauce down the center of the pizza.
Bake at 450 degrees for about 30 minutes or until crust is golden brown. When done, sprinkle with parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes, if desired.
Alternative: Homemade Pizza Dough: Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups warm water 2 teaspoons dried yeast (1 packet) 4 cups plain flour 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon sugar Cornmeal, optional Directions: In a bowl or measuring cup, add water and sprinkle yeast over top of water. Stir gently and then let sit for about 10 minutes. In a large bowl, add flour, salt and sugar. Make a well and pour yeast into the center. With a fork, slowly begin in-
corporating yeast into dough until dough comes together and becomes too hard to mix with your fork. Flour your hands and begin to make it into a ball. Knead the dough on a floured surface until you have a smooth, springy, soft dough ball. Place dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let double in size, about 45 minutes. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Divide the dough into 4 balls. (Balls can be wrapped and frozen for later.) Flour and cover balls with cloth. Let rest for 15 minutes. Dust surface with flour. With rolling pins or by hand, create the desired shape and thickness of pizza. Stretch out to fit a 9 x 13 inch baking sheet (also called a quarter sheet pan). Follow instructions for Racer Stripe Pizza.
Watch my how-to video: jandatri.com/recipe/racer-stripe-pizza
36
GET OUT
HOT CLUB from page 33
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
the group’s album “John, Paul, George and Django,” the basis for this Lakeshore Music show. After a long year-and-a-half without convenient parking at the arts center, free
parking on-site is back. Validation is required and handles at its reception table in the lobby. A $60 Caffe Boa Dinner & Jazz Package is available by calling 480-350-2822.
“The best dinner and show value in the universe is our partnership with the renowned Caffe Boa in downtown Tempe,” Wilson said. “It’s $60 and it includes your concert
slowed down these days. Instead of touring incessantly, Larry the Cable Guy performs 30 dates a year. “I don’t want to miss my kids growing up,” he said of his 12- and 13-year-old children. “I lived on a tour bus 285 days a year for 10 straight years, back in my heyday. I started slowing down right after I finished my History Channel show. “I was sitting on a bus one day and I remember Jeff Foxworthy telling me
he had one regret: He wished he would have been able to attend more of his kids’ school functions. He said, ‘If you can do it, if you don’t need to go out and do this, you should spend time with your kids.’ It’s what I do.” Larry the Cable Guy is touring to promote his new stand-up comedy special, “Remain Seated,” through the Comedy Dynamics network, its hybrid distribution system composed of Comcast, Amazon
Prime Video, Spectrum, Apple TV, Dish, Google Play, DirecTV, Vimeo and YouTube on April 7. The album follows on April 10 through SiriusXM, Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, Pandora and SoundCloud. “Out of all the albums I’ve done—they’re all really awesome—this one is my alltime favorite,” he said. “I think the material is awesome. I guarantee it’ll make you laugh very hard every 20 seconds.”
BY TAYLOR O’CONNOR Contributor
blown away and we still stand by the movement. We believe they need quality pay. It just affected us.” “A Peaceful Gathering” was a full band effort. Over the years, Bump says Mill’s End’s sound has changed lyrically and musically, with each musician’s blessing. “Not once has a person said no when we were Mill’s End will be performing Thursday at the revered Rhythm Room in Phoenix, bringing going to try someenergy and emotion to their brand of country rock. (File photo) thing different,” Bump says. forced several schools across the state to “We started out as a straightforward shut down because there weren’t enough Americana country/rock band. And as teachers to run classes. we’ve gone on, we’ve taken on different Each musician has children in school, styles. We did acoustic and then heavy and they believe teachers need to be paid stuff. We decided to do different things more. within the song musically. We are not “We have a lot of friends who are teach- afraid to try something just for the heck ers, and my mom was a teacher,” Bump of it.” says. “I was so touched by the way the “A Peaceful Gathering” is one of a handteachers organized and wanted to make ful of singles Mill’s End hopes to release to change in a positive way. We were just so adapt to the record industry norm.
CABLE from page 33
ticket. Dinner at Caffe Boa followed by our Hot Club of San Francisco show at TCA is the perfect date night out. You’ll thank me later. Everyone does.” Tickets: lakeshoremusic.org.
IF YOU GO
What: Larry the Cable Guy Where: Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler When: 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. March 20 Tickets: Start at $57 Info: playatgila.com
Mill’s End performs and sends a message
A
fter 10 years in Tempe-based Mill’s End, lead singer Jeffrey Bump makes music because he loves it. It’s an honest approach to honest songs. “It’s energy and emotion,” Bump says. “We have the opportunity to deliver a message and art to people. It’s a very emotional, intense thing for us.” Mill’s End performs with Roger! and Big Finish at the Rhythm Room, 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, on Thursday, March 19. “Give us a chance. We practice a lot to make sure our sound is as tight as it can be, and we put our heart into it,” Bump says. Mill’s End formed 10 years ago when Bump was taking a break from his previous act. He was working on a solo career when he met a drummer at a party. This led to a jam session and the realization Bump missed being in a band. With Bump, bassist Geoff Butzine, drummer Mike Eckert and guitarist Alan Clark, Mill’s End recently released the single “A Peaceful Gathering,” an ode to the Red for Ed movement. The Red for Ed movement happened in April 2019, when teachers across the whole state walked out in record numbers for six days in protest. This
“We did three albums,” Bump says. “The last several songs we have might go into a compilation. There will probably be at least one more single before another album.” In response to the singles trend, Bump hopes fans increase their attention span. “There’s such a long period from when you (record an album to when you) put out an album,” he says. “We found it to be very important to release music periodically. People lose attention quickly and we wanted to be present.” As for music becoming more of a fulltime experience, Bump isn’t sure. “This is our softball. We are not expecting anything to happen, we just like to play,” he says. “We take it very seriously and do anything we can to perform, but if we’re not opening for the Stones it’s not the end of the world.” ”
IF YOU GO What: Roger!, Big Fish and Mill’s End Where: Rhythm Room, 1019 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix When: 7 p.m., March 19 Tickets: $10 at the door. Info: rhythmroom.com,
37
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
Locations In Queen Creek, Chandler and Gilbert
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Call 866-847-9023 for our FREE Idea Starter Guide. 100% Confidential • Davison charges fees for services
38
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
Gilbert Sun News
1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway #219 • Tempe, AZ 85282 480.898.6465 class@timespublications.com
Deadlines
Classifieds: Thursday 11am for Sunday Life Events: Thursday 10am for Sunday
The Place “To Find” Everything You Need | GilbertSunNews.com
Employ ment
Employment General PT Janitor $12/hour. Mesa. MonFri. Derrick 623-2108719. Must have vehicle. Only Serious Need Apply. Backgrnd check VM Consolidated Inc., d/b/a Verra Mobility currently has an opening for a Principal Database Systems Architect in Mesa, AZ to design, develop, implement, and support complex database solutions. At least 10% travel to other office locations. Position requires degree and experience. For full details and to submit application, please visit: http://bit.ly/2TiqpdU Scheduling Engineer (Civ. Eng.) at Sundt Construction, Inc. (Tempe, AZ): Dev proposal phase CPM sched using proj est. & historical database for industrial const proj. Req. MS in Civ Eng., or Con Eng. & 2 years exp. Add’l duties, reqmts, travel req avail upon request. Send resume to jejaramillo@sundt.com, ref Job#CV01.
Employment General VM Consolidated Inc., d/b/a Verra Mobility currently has an opening for a Senior Software Engineer in Mesa, AZ to contribute to the development and quality for our future and existing technology products. Position requires degree and experience. For full details and to submit application, please visit: http://bit.ly/2w2fbm2 VM Consolidated Inc., d/b/a Verra Mobility currently has an opening for a Senior Systems Analyst in Mesa, AZ who will maintain operational performance goals with regards to transaction processing, process quality and efficiency, process streamlining, and monitoring KPIs. Position requires degree and experience. For full details and to submit application, please visit: http://bit.ly/32s2PQd
Your newspaper. Your community. Your planet.
Employment General ENGINEERS
PayPal, Inc. has career opportunities in Scottsdale, AZ for Engineers including: Software, QA, Web Development, Software Developers, Database, Data Warehouse, Data Architect, User Interface, Information Security, System Integration, Release, Network and Cloud. Positions include: junior, senior, and management positions. Positions require BA/BS, MA/MS, MBA or PhD. Multiple positions/openings. Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. Please mail resume w/ ref. to: Req. No.: SWE300PP at: ATTN: HR, Cube 10.3.561, PayPal, Inc. HQ, 2211 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95131. EOE
PROMOTERS WANTED!! AVG. PAY $19.48 - $27.33 Large Home Improvement Company Looking For People to Work at Chandler Fashion Center, Superstition Springs Mall & Arizona Mills Locations, Sam's Club Gilbert & Chandler as well as Home Show Events to Schedule Appointments. Must be able to approach people. * GUARANTEED HOURLY PLUS COMMISSION (DEMO BONUS PLUS % of sale) * PAID TRAINING * PART TIME & FULL TIME * BENEFITS FOR FULL TIME * RETIREES & COLLEGE STUDENTS WELCOME
To Set Up Interview Call, National Trainer, Steve Bloechel 480-298-3688!
Employment General
Announcements
HVAC Technician
Childcare Providers
MUST HAVE: 3-5 YEARS EXPERIENCE, CLEAN DRIVING RECORD, VALID DRIVER'S LICENSE, RELIABLE TRANSPORTATION, OWN TOOLS. OUR COMPANY OFFERS COMPETITIVE PAY. WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON CUSTOMER SERVICE Job Type: Full-time Please Email Resume to: admin@aacoolingaz.com Software QA Engineer II, IQVIA, Mesa, AZ: Engineer, design & develop cloud & mobile-based products using Salesforce.com, AWS, Heroku, & iOS for the life science industry. Provide technical guidance to a distributed team to prepare technical design documents, design & develop solutions. Work in a geographically dispersed environment. Must have a Master’s in Computer Science or Information Systems & 1 yr. exp. (i) software testing using Agile SCRUM & (ii) UI automation testing for web applications using Selenium or mobile apps using Appium. Exp. may be gained concurrently. Mail resume & cover letter to K. Mallardi, IQVIA, [Req. #1120515] IMS Dr., Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462. No calls. Software Developer Analyst 2, IQVIA, Mesa, AZ: Lead & coordinate software development activities on implementation projects across multiple Pharmaceutical client accounts using CRM product suite & partner w/Product Development team to resolve Product issues. Work in a collaborative onshore-offshore model & communicate w/client & offshore team. Configure Force.com, develop reports & dashboards using Salesforce.com & provide integrated solutions with other platforms such as ETL or iOS. Design & develop applications independently in Force.com. Must have a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems, Computer Science or related field & 3 yrs. exp. (i) in Salesforce.com using development platform (such as Salesforce lightning, Salesforce Dx, Apex, Visual force, Eclipse/Salesforce IDE, or Data Loader) & (ii) consulting for Pharmaceutical customers. Must have Salesforce.com developer certification. Mail resume to K. Mallardi, IQVIA, [Ref. 1122567] 1 IMS Dr., Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462. No calls.
Please recycle me.
EVERLASTING MONUMENT Co.
“Memories cut in Stone”
MONUMENTS • GRANITE & BRONZE • CEMETERY LETTERING • CUSTOM DESIGNS
480-969-0788
75 W. Baseline Rd. Ste. A-8, Gilbert, AZ 85233
Employment General MAINTENANCE TECHNICIANS-FT Hiring now. Exp'd general maintenance, multi-task, responsible, flexible. Bckgrnd check Req'd Apply within or fax 480-373-5757 HOUSEKEEPER - Hiring now Exp'd, dependable, multi-task, responsible, work some Sat. Apply within, Bckgrnd check Req'd. Viewpoint RV & Golf Resort 8700 E. University DR - E. Mesa SIGN-ON BONUS Nurses and Mental Health Professionals! Centurion is now hiring RNs, LPNs and Licensed Mental Health Professionals for Arizona State Prison Complexes in Florence. Join an established company that truly cares for its employees and earn up to $6k in sign-on bonuses for select positions. Apply online at www.centurionjobs.com or contact Katie at 508-329-8370 or katie@teamcenturion.com for more info. We look forward to working with you! EOE
Business Opportunities Misc Business Opportunities
HEADSTONES Make your choice Everlasting
LAS SENDAS HOME CHILD CARE Las Sendas Mom, Newborn & Up, 16 Yr Exp, CPR Certified, Homemade meals and healthy snacks, Loving, safe envir., No pool, Flexible schedule, Early childhood, development activities offered. Many References Call Lina 480-324-8466
www.everlastingmonumentco.com info@everlastingmonument.phxcoxmail.com
Seniors Welcome - Join Our Family! Healthy Habits is a leader in the supplement industry with a proud history that spans 40+ years. Based in vibrant Tempe, we’re looking to add a couple of family members to our customer support team in either a full-time or part-time capacity. The environment is casual, low stress & friendly. Generally; you’ll be taking customer orders & providing customer support. No outbound sales calling is required, & our customers relationships are the best in the business because we’re fair, honest & friendly. If you’d like to learn more about this position, please visit website at: www.HealthyHabits.com/jobs/
Extremely Rare Investment Opportunity
Medical marijuana cultivation and manufacturing facility in North Dakota. This is a non-publicly traded company that grows and manufactures medical marijuana products for dispensaries. It is one of only two grow/manufacturing facilities allowed to operate in the state. Current owner is offering a portion of the business/real estate and will retain 50% ownership to maintain continuity. Income/Expense information and projections are available to solid investors only. Contact Wade M. Bachmeier, Landmark Real Estate Services, 2800 N. Washington St., Bismarck ND, 58503. Office: 701-222-1234. Cell: 701-400-4251 or wade@landmarknd.us
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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
Lessons/ Tutoring
Garage Sales/ Bazaars
Real Estate Auctions/Services
PROFESSIONAL TUTORING Individualized, at-home instruction for grades K12. Multiple subjects including Math, Reading and Writing. Preparation for college entrance tests. Assistance for home-schooling, behavioral, organizational and special education concerns. Call Philip N. Swanson, Ph. D. 480-677-9459
Sunland Village East Arts & Craft Show
FULL PRICE for your house NO Commissions, NO Closing Costs, NO Hassles, NO Fixing We Buy Houses As-Is You can walk away today! Guaranteed Offer + $25 Visa Gift Card on the 1st Showing! 480-EZ-Money WeBuyHousesEZ.com
Auto - All Makes 68 Camaro Convertible, Totally frame off restored. Auto, red w/ black stripes. 327. $56K obo. Yuma loc.
Sat. 3/28 8am-1pm. In auditorium 8026 E. Lakeview Ave. Mesa. Sossaman & Baseline 480-380-0106 COMMUNITY WIDE GARAGE SALE! The Ocotillo Community Association will hold its ANNUAL COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE on Saturday, March 28th , 7:00am to 2:00pm. Located South of Queen Creek Road and North of Chandler Heights, between Dobson and Alma School Roads. To view a map of the community, please visit www.oca-az.com
Call 503-472-7151
Merch andise
Wanted to Buy Cash 4 Diabetic Strips! Best Prices in Town. Sealed and Unexpired. 480-652-1317 Diabetic Test Strips by the box, unused. Any type or brand. Will pay top dollar. Call Pat 480-323-8846
Manufactured Homes BRAND NEW NEVER LIVED IN 2 BED / 2 BATH HOMES $58,900 Financing Available Also Available Affordable Homes Between $5K - $15K 55+ Mobile Home Park in Great Chandler Loc. Call Kim 480-233-2035 Brand New 2019 Clayton
Garage Sales/ Bazaars
Gilbert: Seville Golf & Country Club Huge Community Wide Garage Sale btwn Riggs/ N & S. of Chandler Heights. W. of Power & E. & W. of Higley. Sat March 28th & Sunday March 29th. 8am-?
MH 16X56, 2B/2B, 3 Ton Cent A/C, Concrete Drive W/Awning, Landscaped, Steps, W/D Hkups, 18 CF Fridge, Gas Range, Dishwasher Ready, Walk in Shower in a 55+ Resort Community in Apache Junction. Starting at $52,900 Does not include furniture. Call Bill at 480-228-7786 WE’RE ALWAYS HERE TO SERVE YOUR CLASSIFIED NEEDS
480.898.6465 CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM
Real Estate
For Rent Apartments ALMA SCH & MAIN UTILITIES INCLUDED Duplex Apt. Bad Credit OK. No Deposit Close to Lightrail $700 (602) 339-1555 ALMA SCH & MAIN UTILITIES INCLUDED Bad Credit OK. No Deposit Close to Lightrail $700 (602) 339-1555
Apartments
Cleaning Services
Crismon/Apache Trl Cottage Lg 1br 1ba duplex, New AC, fenced yard, $800. Bad Credit ok. No Deposit. Water/trash incl'd (602) 339-1555
Accounting
Commerical/Industrial/Retail Outdoor commercial/personal Storage Yards for lease. Secure, gated 24 hour access, and much more. Call 480-926-5957 for details
Homes For Rent
Maximizing Your Profit Is Our Business!
Full-Service Accounting & Tax Services for Businesses, Individuals, Trusts, and Estates • Put 35 years of experience to work for you! • Payroll, Bookkeeping, Accounting, Business Advising/Structuring, Tax Planning/Strategy • QuickBooks ProAdvisors • Financial Records Clean-Up • Local, State, Federal, and International Tax Services • We are available 12 months a year
480-646-3419 • SOLVEDtax.com Licensed, Bonded, and Insured
55+ yearly resort rental. Park model large AZ room. 2 baths, laundry room w/washer and dryer. Available April 1, 2020. No children or pets. $1,100.00 mo. Contact Patrick 480-242-4317
Manufactured Homes
THE LINKS ESTATES Why Rent The Lot When
YOU CAN OWN THE LAND And Own Your New Home
FROM THE UPPER 100’S
ASK US HOW YOUR $105,000 CASH INVESTMENT AND OUR SENIOR LOAN PROGRAM ENABLES QUALIFIED 62+ SENIORS MAKING THE LINKS THEIR PRIMARY RESIDENCE HAVE NO MORTGAGE PAYMENT & NO LOT RENT AS LONG AS YOU LIVE IN HOME.
Gawthorp & Associates Realty
East Valley/ Ahwatukee
Broken Springs Replaced Nights/Weekends Bonded/Insured 480-251-8610
Not a licensed contractor
Appliance Repairs
Appliance Repair Now
If It’s Broken, We Can Fix It! • Same Day Service • On-Site Repairs • Servicing All Major Brands • Quality Guaranteed
We Also Buy, Sell & Trade Used Appliances Working or Not
480-659-1400 Licensed & Insured Cleaning Services
FREE Service Call ($50 Service Call* Waived with any repair)
PROFESSIONAL, FULL-SERVICE RESIDENTIAL AND OFFICE CLEANING
Bob B AC, LLC
480-364-8054 | HOUSECLEANINGSERVICESAZ.COM TO SCHEDULE A CLEANING
480-330-5117 (Over 40 Years Experience)
ROC 318210
Licensed-Bonded-Insured
DEEP CLEANING EXPERTS TOP-TO-BOTTOM, WALL-TO-WALL SAFE CLEANING PRODUCTS
PROVIDING SERVICE IN THE PHOENIX EAST VALLEY & SURROUNDING AREAS WE’RE PERFECT FOR: AFTER REMODELING & CONSTRUCTION, CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES, MOVE IN/MOVE OUT
30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IS YOUR WARRANTY
3 HOURS 1 LADY $100 2 HOURS 2 LADIES $120 DEEP CLEANING AFTER 5 HOURS
$50
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QUALITY, VALUE and a GREAT PRICE!
Lifetime Warranty on Workmanship Seasonal AC Tune Up - $99 New 3-Ton AC Units - $3,995 We are a Trane dealer & NATE-Certified! 0% FINANCING - 72 Months!! ‘A+’ RATED AC REPAIR FREE ESTIMATE SAME DAY SERVICE
602-402-2213
Add a Background Color to Your Ad! Classifieds 480-898-6465
GARAGE DOOR SERVICE
Air Conditioning/Heating
40667 N Wedge Dr • San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
www.linksestates.net
HOUSE CLEANING The lowest prices in the Valley! We provide all cleaning supplies. 20 years exp. Trustworthy and dependable. We pay attention to details. Excellent Refs! Call Vicky 480-227-1890
Garage/Doors
Bonded/Insured • ROC #289252
480-405-7588
ItsJustPlumbSmart.com
RESIDENTIAL & SMALL BUSINESS CLEANING SPECIALISTS SINCE 2007 Weekly, biweekly, tri-weekly, or monthly; same talented crew each visit Flexible, customized services to meet individual needs of each client GREEN eco-friendly products used to clean and sanitize Move-in/move-out and seasonal deep cleans Small, family-owned company with GUARANTEED high quality services Always dependable, excellent references, bonded, and insured
FreeFree estimates estimatesat at 480-802-1992 480-802-1992 or or dennis@simplygrandcleaningaz.com reed@simplygrandcleaningaz.com
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GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
Handyman
Concrete & Masonry
HANDYMAN 37 years experience. Drywall, framing, plumbing, painting, electrical, roofing and more. Stan, 602-434-6057
Block Fence * Gates
602-789-6929 Roc #057163 Lowest Prices * 30 Yrs Exp Serving Entire Valley
Home Improvement
YOU’LL LIKE US - THE BEST!
MESA HOME MAINTENANCE & REPAIR Plumbing, electric, irrigation, garage doors, water heaters, tile and drywall repairs, carpentry, handyman lists and other services. Not a licensed contractor. All work guaranteed. Sean Sornberger 480-699-7990
DESERT ROCK
C O N C RETE & M A S O N RY BLOCKWALL CONCRETE RETAINING WALL BLOCK FENCE PLANTER BBQ
FOUNDATION DRIVEWAY SIDEWALK PATIO
Classifieds 480-898-6465
PAVER • CONCRETE REMOVAL • HARDSCAPE BONDED & INSURED • ROC#321648 SATISFACTION GUARANTEED! FREE ESTIMATES • 16 YEARS EXPERIENCE RESIDENTIAL CALL JOHN: 480.797.2985 COMMERCIAL
Home Improvement HOME REMODELING REPAIRS & CUSTOM INTERIOR PAINTING Move a wall; turn a door into a window. From small jobs and repairs to room additions, I do it all. Precision interior painting, carpentry, drywall, tile, windows, doors, skylights, electrical, fans, plumbing and more. All trades done by hands-on General Contractor. Friendly, artistic, intelligent, honest and affordable. 40 years' experience. Call Ron Wolfgang Office 480-820-8515 Cell 602-628-9653 Wolfgang Construction Inc. Licensed & Bonded ROC 124934
Handyman
Landscape Maintenance
REASONABLE HANDYMAN
Irrigation Repair Services Inc. Licensed • Bonded • Insured Technician
Specializing in Controllers, Valves, Sprinklers, Landscape Lighting, P.V.C. & Poly Drip Systems
• Painting • Plumbing • Carpentry • Drywall • Roofing • Block
Call Lance White
- Free Estimates -
480.721.4146
480-276-6600
www.irsaz.com
ROC# 256752
*Not a Licensed Contractor
Insured/Bonded Free Estimates LLC
• Drywall Repair • Bathroom Remodeling • Home Renovations
• Electrical Repair • Plumbing Repair • Dry rot and termite damage repair
GENERAL CONTRACTOR / HANDYMAN SERVICES SERVING THE ENTIRE VALLEY
Garage/Doors
All Estimates are Free • Call:
520.508.1420
www.husbands2go.com
Licensed, Bonded & Insured • ROC#317949 Ask me about FREE water testing!
Contractors
Painting of All Types Interior & Exterior Cabinets Stains & Paints H
602-315-5470
Plumbing • Decks Drywall • Carpentry • Tile • More! Decks • Tile • More!
Handyman
Marks the Spot for ALL Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! Your Handyman Needs! Painting • Flooring • Electrical
“No JobSmall Too Man!” Small Man!”
“No Job Too Small Man!”
•rkPanel Changes 1999 Since “No Job Too Affordable, Quality Wo 199 Work Since 1999 and9Repairs Quality le,Small 2010, 2011 Affordab ce Man!” Sin rk 2010, 2011 Wo y alit Qu 2012, 2013, Affordable, 2012, 2013, “No Job • Installation of 2010, 2011 2014 2014 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 Call Bruce at 2012, 2013, Too Small Man!” 9 e 1992014 Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor Work SincAhwatukee lityContractor QuaFans le, NotCeiling a Licensed Affordab CallAhwatukee BruceResident/ at References/ Insured/ 2010, 2011 2010, 2011 2012, 2013, 2012, 2013, BSMALLMAN@Q.COM • Switches/Outlets Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not aBruce Licensed Contractor 2014 2014 Call at 602.670.7038 • Home Remodel - Ahw Resident Since 1987 Ahwatukee-Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor
602.670.7038 602.670.7038
ALL RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL Call Jim Endres 480.282.7932 Over 28 Years Experience • ROC #246019 Bonded/Insured
Tree Trimming • Tree Removal Stump Grinding Storm Damage • Bushes/Shrubs Yard Clean-up Commercial and Residential
Bath & Kitchen Remodels • Drywall & Stucco Repairs Plumbing • Electrical • Can Lights Windows • Doors • Cabinets • Painting Block Fences • Wrought Iron Gates Remodeling • Additions • Patios • Tenant Improvements
the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! • Drywall • Carpentry Plumbing Painting • Flooring • Electrical • Plumbing ServicesMarks Painting • Flooring • ElectricalDecks • Tile • More! Drywall Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry• Carpentry • Decks • Tile & More! Decks • Tile • More! “No Job Too
HONESTY • INTEGRITY • QUALITY
LANDSCAPING, TREES & MAINTENANCE
WE DO IT ALL!
Est Free ima tes
Marks 4960 S. Gilbert Rd. the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! forMcMillan-Owner ALL•Your Handyman Needs! SuiteMarks #1 Unitthe #260Spot John Painting Flooring • Electrical Chandler, AZ 85249 sirjohn53@gmail.com Painting • Flooring • Electrical Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry
Electrical
Prepare for Winter Season!
ACTION CONTRACTING INC.
Over 30 Years Quality Experience
HIG
L L C
480-354-5802
HOME IMPROVEMENTS REMODEL& REPAIR
QUA Lice LITY ns ROC ed & B 251 ond 661 ed
S E R V I C E
PMB 435 • 2733 N. Power Rd. • Suite 102 • Mesa dennis@allprotrees.com
Home Improvement
SIR JOHNS CONTRACTING
ALL Pro
T R E E
Call Bruce at 602.670.7038
Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor
Your Ad can go ONLINE ANY Day! Call to place your ad online!! Classifieds 480-898-6465
A+
East Valley 480-833-7353
-S
C IN
E1
97
8-
LIC/BONDED/INSURED Res/Comm’l ROC#218802
aaaActionContractingInc.com
General Contacting, Inc. Licensed • Bonded • Insured • ROC118198
One Call, We Do It All! 602-339-4766 Owner Does All Work, All Honey-Do Lists All Remodeling, Additions, Kitchen, Bath, Patio Covers, Garage, Sheds, Windows, Doors, Drywall & Roofing Repairs, Painting, All Plumbing, Electrical, Concrete, Block, Stucco, Stack Stone, All Flooring, Wood, Tile, Carpet, Welding, Gates, Fences, All Repairs.
Free Estimates with Pride & Prompt Service!
480.345.1800 ROC 304267 • Licenced & Bonded
Sell Your Stuff! Call Classifieds Today! 480.898.6465
CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM
41
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
Landscape Maintenance
Plumbing
Painting
RAMIRO MEDINA LANDSCAPING ➧ LANDSCAPING ➧ TREE TRIMMING & REMOVAL ➧ IRRIGATION ➧ YARD CLEAN-UP ➧ GRAVEL COMMERCIAL ➧ RESIDENTIAL ➧ LICENSED • INSURED OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE
Affinity Plumbing LLC 480-487-5541
East Valley PAINTERS
affinityplumber@gmail.com
Your Ahwatukee Plumber & East Valley Neighbor
Voted #1
Call or Text Today for a FREE ESTIMATE
Painting
Jose Dominguez Painting & Drywall SEE OUR AD IN DRYWALL! Quick Response to your Call! 15 Years Exp 480-266-4589 Not a licensed contractor
Pebble • White Plaster • New Pool Builds Tile • Deck • Pump & Filters
Anything Plumbing Same Day Service
10% OFF
We Beat Competitors Prices & Quality Free Estimates! Home of the 10-Year Warranty!
480-688-4770
www.eastvalleypainters.com Family Owned & Operated
Now Accepting all major credit cards
Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131
AE &Sons Pool Plaster Company
All Complete Pool Renovations
www.affinityplumbingaz.com
Paint Interior & Exterior • Drywall Repair Light Carpentry • Power Washing • Textures Matched Popcorn Removal • Pool Deck Coatings Garage Floor Coatings • Color Consulting
Carlos Medina - 602-677-3200
Pool Service / Repair
FREE Estimates • BEST Prices
Water Heaters
24/7
602-505-8066 Cell
Inside & Out Leaks
Bonded
Lic’d, Bonded • ROC #235771 • ROC #235770
Toilets
Insured
Faucets
Estimates Availabler
Se Habla Espanõl
Roofing
Disposals
$35 off
Any Service
ACCREDITED BUSINESS ®
Not a licensed contractor
Pool Service / Repair
Juan Hernandez
Tiles, shingles, flat, repairs & new work Free Estimates • Ahwatukee Resident Over 30 yrs. Experience
Pavers • Concrete • Water Features • Sprinkler Repair
HOME IMPROVEMENT & PAINTING
See MORE Ads Online!
Interior/Exterior Painting 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Dunn Edwards Quality Paint Small Stucco/Drywall Repairs
Free Estimates • Senior Discounts ROC#309706
480-706-1453
Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099
showing, Pool Light out? I CAN HELP!
Honey Do List Too Long?
FALL SPECIAL! $500 OFF COMPLETE REMODEL! 25 Years Experience • Dependable & Reliable
Check out the Handyman Section!
Call Juan at
We Are State Licensed and Reliable!
480-338-4011
PPebbleOcracking, O L Plaster R Epeeling, P ARebar IR
www.GilbertSunNews.com
480-720-3840 Not a licensed contractor.
Plumbing
Plumbing
PlumbSmart Plumbing Heating & Air
4995
$
DRAIN CLEANING
GARBAGE DISPOSAL
($85 Value)
ITS
NEW A/C UN
Water Heaters $
799
FREE SERVICE CALLS
189
$
$
3,995!
starting at
480-405-7099
(advertised offers cannot be combined)
We are A+ Rated by the BBB and stand behind our work with a Lifetime Warranty. Call us for the BEST SERVICE and PRICES in the East Valley!
Call 480-868-6722 ROC 316690
Thank you Mesa for Voting us #1
Experience, Service and Price
Find out why our customers become customers for life! Over 700 five-star Google reviews!
FREE ESTIMATES
ItsJustPlumbSmart.com
42
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
Roofing
Tree Services
Window Cleaning
Public Notices
APPEARANCE Professional service since 1995
Window Cleaning $100 - One Story $140 - Two Story
TREE ART Tree Trimming, Removals, Haul off and Yard clean-ups. Available weekends.
Includes in & out up to 30 Panes Sun Screens Cleaned $3 each Attention to detail and tidy in your home.
Not a licensed contractor.
Your leaks stop here! New Roofs, Repairs, Coatings, Flat Roof, Hot Mopping & Patching & Total Rubber Roof Systems
CLASS@ TIMESPUBLICATIONS. COM
(480) 584-1643
Bonded & Insured
It’s your money. Let us help you keep it!
SAME DAY SERVICE
Full-Service Accounting & Tax Services for Businesses, Individuals, Trusts, and Estates
30 Years Experience References Available Senior & Military Discounts
480-280-0390
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property pursuant to the Arizona Self-Service Storage Act, Arizona Statutes 33-1704, Section H, Enforcement of Lien. The Undersigned will sell at public sale by competitive bidding on or after March 20, 2020 at 9:00am using an online auction at www.storagetreasures.com, said property has been stored and located at US 60 Self Storage, 1661 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 102, Mesa, AZ 85210. Property to be sold as follows: Misc. household goods, personal items, furniture, clothing, toys and/or business fixtures and items belonging to the following:
Sale subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Items sold “as is”, CASH ONLY, and Buyer must pay a security deposit and broom sweep/clean the unit.
• Put 35 years of experience to work for you! • Appointments at your home, office, or our office • Evening and weekend appointments available • Tax prep, advising, planning/strategy • Tax services for Federal, all US States, and other countries • We are available 12 months a year
Licensed Bonded Insured ROC 286561
Advertisement of Sale
Tenant Name Unit # Martha Jo Beckman Coleman 142 Alfredo Gonzalez 314 Stacy Koury 417 Sienna Soanes 607 Nicole Gibbs 1008 Denise Ortega 1011
Tax Services
FREE ESTIMATES & MONSOON SPECIALS
LLC
13 yrs exp. 480-329-2239 arpjeff103@gmail.com
COUNTS
BEST PLACE TO MAKE
Go to www.storagetreasures.com to bid on unit(s). Published: East Valley Tribune, Mar. 8, 15, 2020 / 28973
480-646-3419 • SOLVEDtax.com Licensed, Bonded, and Insured
Roofing The Most Detailed Roofer in the State
Plumbing
TK
®
Tim KLINE Roofing, LLC Roofs Done Right...The FIRST Time! 15-Year Workmanship Warranty on All Complete Roof Systems
www.timklineroofing.com
What we do… • Employees Background Checked • Up-Front Pricing • Tankless Water Heaters • Tank Water Heaters • Fixture Replacements
• Plumbing & Drain Repairs • Water Treatment • Best Warranties • Fully Stocked Vans • Fix It Or It’s Free Guarantee
Drain Specialists… • FREE Camera Inspection With Every Drain Cleared • Hydrojetting
$45 off Any service call With service performed
Financing Available
• Pipe Relining • Clean Out Installation • Sewer Repair/Replacement • Pipe Bursting
480-357-2463
FREE Estim at and written e proposal
R.O.C. #156979 K-42 • Licensed, Bonded and Insured
SHARE WITH THE WORLD! Place a Birth, Anniversary, Wedding Announcement, In Memoriam, Obituary or any life event in this paper today! Call us for details.
*$69 drain good Monday thru Friday during normal business hours and not combined with any other offers.
480-281-7564
class@timespublications.com or call 480-898-6465
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
EARLY DINING OFFER 20% Off Food* (Ages 55+)
*20% off Dinner (Monday-Thursday), and Brunch and Dinner (Friday-Sunday) before 6pm. 10% off after 6pm. Alcoholic drinks not included. Ages 55+ with ID. Valid at the Mesa location only. Not valid with any other offers, discounts or coupons.
At Village Square at Dana Park! 1840 S Val V ista Dr. Mesa (480) 813-5400 rodizio.com
43
44
GILBERT SUN NEWS | MARCH 15, 2020
ARIZONA’S LARGEST GROWER DIRECT NURSERY FOR FOUR GENERATIONS!
s? uestion Plant Q e Whitfill Th Call ow arden Sh Nursery G7-9 am Sat KFYI 550AM m Sun 7-9 a KTAR 1230FM
SPRING TREES! Now’s The Time to Plant & We’ll Do the Diggin’
You’ll See The Difference As Soon As You Arrive!
• Best Plants In Town • Friendly, Knowledgeable Nurserymen • No Commissioned High-Pressure Sales People • Best Price In Town On Quality Trees!
BIG GIANT HUGE NOW 99 $ 2 24” BOX TREES Mesquite • Oak • Pistachio Ash • Elm • Acacia
PLANTED & GUARANTEED
36” UPBOX TREES TO 15’ TALL
Mesquite • Thornless Mesquite Palo Verde • Acacia • Palobrea • Ironwood Sissoo • Oak • Ash • Elms & more
599
PLANTED & GUARANTEED
$ 299 499
$
-$
YOUR CHOICE
PALMS
Arizona’s Best Selection Grower-Direct From Our Farms
FROM
Compare at $1000
TOMATOES & PEPPERS
Lemon • Lime Grapefruit • Oranges
$
Box Trees 1000’s to Choose From
1500
$
From
• Ash • Elm • Mesquite • Palo Verde • Pistachio • Pines
UP TO 25’ TALL
Planted & Guaranteed • Compare at $3000+
139 15 GAL.
Dates • Bismarkia California and Mexican Fan • Cycads • Blues And More!
Reg. $3.99-$4.99
SHADE TREES Monster 48”
CITRUS TREES BIG 5-6 Year Old • Many With Fruit! Includes Dwarf Trees:
Price Good with Ad
PLANTED & GUARANTEED
ORCHARD SPECIAL Three 5-6 Year Old Trees
CASH & CARRY • Lemon • Lime • Tangerine • Tangelo • Oranges • Grapefruit and more!
499
$
WORTH THE DRIVE FROM ANYWHERE! VALLEYWIDE DELIVERY JUST $75!
MAIN TREE FARM • 602-268-9096
EAST VALLEY • 480-892-2712
2647 E. Southern Ave. (Phx)
Cooper (Stapley) & Guadalupe
NORTH PHOENIX/ SCOTTSDALE • 602-944-8479 824 E Glendale Ave. (Phx)
All offers limited to stock on hand. • No other discounts apply. • Not valid on previous sales. Multi trunk, jumbo size, and field dug trees slightly higher. STORE HOURS: MON-SAT 8-5:30, SUN 10-4 • LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED • RESIDENTIAL - C-21 - 125878 • COMMERCIAL - A-21 - 125879
SALE ENDS 3/31/20
Price is good with ad only.