October 2015
Relentlessly local coverage of Gilbert and our neighboring communities
The Bills hit the field
Team joins a new league in a new season. See page 14.
Voters will decide bonds, override for schools
Town studying downtown parking plans
BY KEN ABRAMCZYK
BY KENNETH LAFAVE
Voters registered in the Gilbert Public Schools district will decide in an allmail election Tuesday, Nov. 3, whether to approve a 10 percent maintenance and operations budget override and $98 million in bonds. An override approved in 2007 expired at the end of the 2014-15 school year, so GPS officials are asking voters to approve the bonds for capital expenditures in two separate ballot questions. The owner of a home valued at $170,000—the average assessed value in the district—would pay between $364 to $399 in property taxes in fiscal year 2017, if voters approved the override and the bonds. Because the previous override has see OVERRIDE page 7
Downtown Gilbert has grown—and grown up. Restaurants and entertainment venues crowd the space that 10 years ago was a deserted stretch of rust and empty buildings. Not only is the Town of Gilbert’s Heritage District a busy place for locals, it’s a hip destination for people from all over the East Valley. The area around Gilbert Road north of Elliot Road is home to 52 commercial properties and a new university campus. Thousands of people in cars enter and exit the district every day in search of food, shopping, education, work and diversion, and that means one thing: A potential parking nightmare. see PARKING page 10
4 Community 16 Neighbors 23 Business 26 Neighborhood Map
More on-street parking could be created in downtown Gilbert by converting the outside lanes of Gilbert Road to parallel parking. Submitted photo
31 Youth 41 Spirituality 44 Arts 49 Opinion
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Your Gilbert Home Sold for 100% of Your Asking Price, GUARANTEED or Bret Johnson Will Pay You The Difference!* No Gimmicks! For more information on my exclusive Guaranteed Sales Program, order a Free report by visiting: www.480FastSale.com or FREE Recorded Message: 1-800-303-3049, ID# 8001 or call me direct at: 480-775-7700
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14 Critical Home Inspection Traps to be Aware of Weeks Before Listing Your Home for Sale GILBERT, AZ - According to industry experts, there are over 33 physical problems that will come under scrutiny during a home inspection when your home is for sale. A new report has been prepared which identifies the eleven most common of these problems, and what you should know about them before you list your home for sale. Whether you own an old home or a brand new one, there are a number of things that can fall short of requirements during a home inspection. If not identified and dealt with, any of these 14 items could cost you dearly in terms of repair. That’s why it’s critical that you read this report before you list your home. If you wait until the building inspector flags these issues for you, you will almost certainly experience costly delays in the close of your home sale or, worse, turn prospective buyers away
altogether. In most cases, you can make a reasonable pre-inspection yourself if you know what you’re looking for, and knowing what you’re looking for can help you prevent little problems from growing into costly and unmanageable ones. To help homesellers deal with this issue before their homes are listed, a free report entitled “14 Things You Need to Know to Pass Your Home Inspection” has been compiled which explains the issues involved. To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report call toll-free 1-800-303-3049 and enter 8003. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free special report NOW to learn how to ensure a home inspection doesn’t cost you the sale of your home.
3
October 2015
What is Your Gilbert Home Worth?
Get an Up to Date Home Value Online! Visit: www.AreaHomeReport.com Free recorded message 1-800-303-3049 ID #8000
7 Things You Must Know Before Putting Your Home Up for Sale
Gilbert, AZ - A new report has just been released which reveals 7 costly mistakes that most homeowners make when selling their home, and a 9 Step System that can help you sell your home fast and for the most amount of money. This industry report shows clearly how the traditional ways of selling homes have become increasingly less and less effective in today’s market. The fact of the matter is that fully three quarters of home sellers don’t get what they want for their homes and become disillusioned and - worse - financially disadvantaged when they put their homes on the market. As this report uncovers, most home sellers make 7 deadly mistakes that cost them literally thousands of dollars. The good news is that each and every one of these mistakes entirely preventable. In answer to this issue, industry insiders have prepared a free special report entitled “The 9 Step System to Get Your Home Sold Fast and For Top Dollar”. To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report, call toll-free, 1-800-303-3049 and enter 8005. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free special report NOW to find out how you can get the most money for your home.
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4 October 2015
Community
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Gilbert wins Golden Prospector Awards The Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED) has presented four Golden Prospector Awards and eight Golden Prospector Awards of Merit, to encourage and recognize excellence in economic development. Winning 2015 Golden Prospector Awards were: the Town of Queen Creek for its marketing brochure, “Economic Profile,” and for its multimedia promotion, “Standing Out from the Crowd at BIO International”; the Town of Gilbert for its multimedia promotion, “Talk of the Trade Series”; and AZ Culture for its special event, “Cottonwood Culture Challenge.” The marketing brochures were required to introduce the state, county, community, region, or area of expertise to either prospects for industrial, commercial, retail or general development opportunities, or a specific purpose, such as promoting an industrial park or other specific types of promotions. The multimedia promotions included a promotional piece, series of promotional pieces or promotional campaign that contained nonprinted elements. These included videos, mailed promotional items and other material. The special events category includes
meetings, seminars, marketing tours, events or trips designed to develop prospects and promote economic development. In the Marketing Brochure category, Golden Prospector Awards of Merit went to the Town of Gilbert for “Inaugural Annual Report;” City of Phoenix for “Phoenix is Hot!,” City of Mesa for “Technology Brochure” and City of Flagstaff for “Flagstaff Business Accelerator Magazine.” Deal of the Year went to Sun Corridor Inc. for “HomeGoods Distribution Facility.” The Special Event prizes were given to the City of Scottsdale for “Cure Corridor Event;” Town of Gilbert, “ASU Bio Meets Gilbert Bio” and the City of Scottsdale for “‘Work Scottsdale’ Talent Attraction Initiative.” The awards were presented at AAED’s Fall Forum in Tucson. AAED, founded in 1974, has a mission to serve as Arizona’s unified voice advocating for responsible economic development through an effective program of professional education, public policy and collaboration. For more information on AAED, visit www.aaed.com or call (602) 240-2233.
The Town of Gilbert’s Amanda Elliott and Jennifer Graves accept the Golden Prospector Awards on the town’s behalf. Submitted photo
Town manager, others named Copper Anvil winners The Phoenix chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) named Gilbert’s Town Manager Patrick Banger the recipient of its prestigious Phoenix Award at the PRSA’s annual Copper Anvil event on Sept. 3. The Copper Anvil Awards recognize outstanding public relations tactics and campaigns that reflect the highest standards of performance in public relations. The Phoenix Award goes to a business or community leader who has elevated the best practices of public relations. A second general award went to Kelly Taft, APR, communications manager for the Maricopa Association of Governments. Taft received the Percy Award, honoring excellence in public relations. The PRSA also awarded scholarships to two Arizona college students: Jillian Carapella, a sophomore at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at ASU, and Devin Ortlieb, a senior majoring in strategic communications with a concentration in public relations and advertising at NAU. Each received a $1,000 scholarship. Additional Copper Anvil Awards went
to winners in the following categories: Community Relations: Arizona Diamondbacks for “D-Backs Give Back Jersey” program; Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona on its 75th anniversary; and Pedene Public Relations with “Honoring Arizona’s Veterans” for Phoenix Veterans Day Parade. Crisis Relations: Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs. Digital/Social Media: The Town of Gilbert for “Standing Out from the Crowd” at BIO International, and Off Madison Ave and Arizona Office of Tourism for Arizona Office of Tourism’s Digital Social Campaign. External Communications: Havas PR North American and Fox Restaurant Concepts for “Onward and Outward”; Off Madison Ave and Phoenix Art Museum for the “Hollywood Costume” media campaign. Innovation & Technology: Honeywell Aerospace for “Aero in Action.” Integrated Communications: Allison+Partners and Dignity Health; Allison+Partners and Healthways SilverSneakers; Gordon C. James Public Relations; Off Madison Ave and Arizona Office of Tourism; and Society of St.
Vincent de Paul. Internal Communications: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. Newsletter/magazine: Havas PR North America. Publicity/Promotion: Allstate Insurance for OpEd, “Teen Safe Driving”; HMA Public Relations for feature story, “Playing It Forward”; Arizona Cactus Pine Council of Girl Scouts for media kit on Girl Scout Cookies. Special Events: Allison+Partners and Lexus for “New Lexus RC and RCF Launch to Media with Vice-Filled New Orleans Experience”; Allison+Partners and Progressive Insurance for “Keys to Progress: 58 Cities, 117 Vehicles and One Day To Help Veterans In Need”; Decibel Blue Creative Marketing & PR for “Pita Jungle 2014 Empty Bowls Bene-fete for Waste Not”; The Town of Gilbert for “Digital State of the Town Premiere; Humana - Humana Touches Down with Wounded Warrior Amputee Football Team”; Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona for “75th Anniversary”; HMA Public Relations for “Girl Scout Cookie Dessert Challenge”; Town of Queen Creek for “25th Anniversary.” Awards of merits went to the
following organizations and teams: Allstate Insurance Company; BIG YAM; The Parsons Agency; InView Communications with AT&T; Allison+Partners with Best Western International; RIESTER with Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Tobacco and Chronic Disease; AAA Arizona; Allison+Partners with American Auction Co.; Castelazo Content; Decibel Blue Creative Marketing & PR; Fingerpaint with Southern Rail; ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth; Off Madison Ave with National Academy of Sports Medicine; The James Agency; Allison+Partners with American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) Foundation & Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc.; Havas PR North America with JCPenney; Fingerpaint with Maricopa Association of Governments; Delta Dental of Arizona; Moses Inc. with Grand Canyon Association; American Traffic Solutions; Allison+Partners with Toyota North America; Havas PR North America with Fox Restaurant Concepts; IKEA; and Havas PR North America with University of Arizona Indigenous Peoples Law and Policy Program.
5
Community
www.GilbertSunNews.com
October 2015
The “New Old-Home Neighborhood”
GRAND OPENING
Don’t Miss this Limited Opportunity to Live in a Fairy-Tale Neighborhood — for Real!
Four collections of homes from 1,700 sq. ft. to just over 4,000 sq. ft. starting in the low $200’s
THE MULBERRY STORY Blandford Homes is creating hometown charm, for real! Mulberry will feel like an enchanted land—magically reminiscent of the early 1900s when homes sprung up to create quaint neighborhoods. Blandford Homes presents an inspired line of home designs with significant character differences. Imagine corner lots featuring homes with wraparound porches! This “New Old-Home Neighborhood” will be one-of-a-kind in Arizona. Mulberry will feature two beautiful main entrances with lush date palm and tree-lined boulevards leading to centrally located Mulberry Park, no more than a 5-minute walk from anyplace in the neighborhood. You will enjoy the park’s impressive Georgian Colonial-style building complete with white trim and green shutters, along with the pool, sport courts, fitness, and playgrounds. Just imagine the events, concerts, and celebrations you’ll attend within the huge pavillions and green playing fields of Mulberry Park. In fact, these community amenities will be in place before the first homeowner moves in. Mulberry is part of the top-rated Gilbert School District, and within a mile you’ll find major shopping, dining, a carwash and an even an IMAX theater. A shopping area, “Mulberry Marketplace,” will include a Fry’s Marketplace designed in a Craftsman Bungalow style to tie into Mulberry’s architectural theme. Mulberry residents won’t even have to leave the community to shop!
Guadalupe Road, just 1.8 miles east of the 202 Fwy, exit 32 Over 3,000 families have already joined our VIP Interest List. Join today at:
MulberryNeighborhood.com
480-895-6300 Arbor Collection
480-895-2800
Americana Collection
BLANDFORD HOMES
480-733-9000
Centennial Collection
480-733-9000 Heritage Collection
No offer to sell or buy may be made prior to issuance of an Arizona subdivision public report. Offer, availability, pricing, terms and conditions subject to change without prior notice. Renderings are artist’s conceptions and remain subject to modification without notice. Blandford Homes has no control over Mulberry Marketplace as to actual timing of construction or even if is it ever constructed. Copyright 2015 Blandford Homes, LLC.
6 October 2015
Community
The gift of health and wellness
www.GilbertSunNews.com
Orangetheory Fitness franchise owners help build clean water wells in Uganda BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON
To most of us in the United States, the fact that clean water will be available to drink, cook and bathe with is a given. But, in several places around the world, clean water isn’t always certain—sadly, it’s often a luxury. The lack of clean water comes with a human cost; for example, it is estimated that 75 percent of the diseases in Uganda are a result of the lack of clean water and proper sanitation. Globally, 3.5 million people die each year from preventable diseases caused by drinking contaminated water. To help curb this statistic, Becky and Travis Renner, owners of several Orangetheory Fitness centers in the Southeast Valley, including the Gilbert location, are working with Valley-based nonprofit Return Hope to donate five water wells that will provide clean water to more than 50,000 individuals in Uganda. Last summer, the Renners traveled to Uganda to see the impact of a lack of clean water first-hand. “This was the trip of a lifetime,” said Becky Renner. “We are in the land of opportunity in America. We have easy access to fresh water nearly everywhere we
Becky Renner with children in Uganda. Submitted Photo
go. In Uganda, this is simply not the case. Every day we went out to the villages and chatted with everyone we possibly could. The residents of Bugiri (a district in Uganda) face many challenges, among them being a lack of fresh water.” “We knew that Bugiri was in desperate need of fresh water, and we thought we were mentally prepared for what we were going to see,” she continued. “Once we arrived and actually witnessed the desperation of necessity of fresh water both of us were overtaken with emotion. To see the water they drink and to watch them have to carry water, sometimes miles each way, was almost too much for us. Despite all of this, it is such a happy community. They don’t have much at all, but they are so welcoming. We now know just how fortunate we all are in the United States.” The Renners got involved with Return Hope through Travis’ brother, Trent Renner, a Valley pastor who founded the organization and has served several mission trips in Africa. Through Trent’s leadership, the Renners even were able to choose where their wells would be placed. One of the unique parts of this process is that Orangetheory Fitness members contributed to the cause— even if they didn’t realize it. “Like many gyms, Orangetheory Fitness studios charge a cancellation fee to members who opt out of a class on short notice,” Travis said. “We like to call this our ‘accountability policy.’ Any member who pre-books a class and decides to hit snooze gets charged $10. The main reason we do this is because when we have a noshow, we cannot offer that spot to someone who may be on our waiting list. All of our no-show fee proceeds at our studios are donated to Return Hope to build new wells. We’re using the money to try and make a difference in the world.” In addition to working with Return Hope, Orangetheory Fitness members have recently raised funds for GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix, which “provides free programs that are educational and therapeutic in nature to individuals with Down syndrome from birth through adulthood, their families and the community,” according to the organization. “Our 19 stores just held a dry triathlon event where people paid $25 to row, lift and run and have a
fun competition. All of the proceeds were donated to GiGi’s Playhouse,” Travis said. “Our goal was to work as hard as we could to get our members involved and raise at least $20,000. We were absolutely amazed that once the proceeds started coming in we were well above $30,000. It was
a team effort and we are so proud of everyone involved, staff and members alike.” To learn more about Return Hope, visit www.returnhope.com. To find out more about GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix, visit www.gigisplayhouse. org/phoenix.
Children in Uganda pump clean water from a new well. Submitted Photo
Becky and Travis Renner visited Uganda in summer 2014 to see the impact of a lack of clean water. Submitted Photo
www.GilbertSunNews.com OVERRIDE from page 1
expired, the tax now $202, to go toward outstanding bonds, for that same homeowner. Last year’s tax bill totaled about $345 prior to the override’s expiration. The 10 percent override would increase the M&O budget by an estimated $18.6 million a year for five years starting with the 2016-17 school year. M&O funds are used for teacher and staff salaries, classroom supplies, student transportation and contracted services. The $98 million in bonds would be earmarked as follows • $40 million facility maintenance • $35 million technology • $15 million student transportation • $8 million school construction and land purchase. In May, the GPS Governing Board voted, 3-2, to put the proposals on the ballot. According to a media reports the three supporters said they believed voters would support the measures, and two of them noted that Mesa and Chandler regularly pass bonds and overrides to give students more than a bare-bones education. One of the board members voted no because he did not want the district taking on more debt, and the other opponent objected to the wording of the override. Irene Mahoney-Paige, GPS’ director of communications, said the board called for an election for the M&O override to raise the salaries of teachers and staff so the district competes with similar school districts. “We have had a high turnover,” she said. “Teachers salaries are frozen and we are not competitive with surrounding districts.” Chandler and Mesa districts pay teachers more than GPS, she said. “It’s
hard to retain teachers.” The override will help maintain or reduce class sizes. Mahoney-Paige said the bonds offset the state’s declining funds for capital expenditures, which fell from $16.9 million in 2008-09 to $7 million in 2014-15. If the state followed the old formula, that amount should be $17 million. For 2015-16, the amount from the state declines even more, to $2.6 million. “(The state) is leaving it up to local communities to fill that gap,” Mahoney-Paige said. The bonds help fund building maintenance and repairs throughout the district in GPS schools housing 37,000 students. Money will be earmarked for roof repairs and heating and cooling systems. “They looked at this and found we will have $138 million in deferred maintenance,” Mahoney-Paige said. “We’ve had to put a lot of things on hold. Onethird of our bus fleet is over 20 years old.” The technology portion of the bonds will help upgrade computers, she said. The last day to register to vote is Monday, Oct. 5. Ballots are expected to be mailed to voters Thursday, Oct. 8. Voters must mail ballots by Friday, Oct. 30, to make sure they arrive in time to be tallied before the election date of Tuesday, Nov. 3. Registered voters who did not receive a ballot in the mail should contact Maricopa County Elections Office at (602) 506-1511. Anyone with questions on the two ballot proposals can submit them to the district at www.gilbertschools.net. Arguments for and against the proposals can be found by clicking on the election informational pamphlet on the website.
When school’s out, come on in. We’re open evenings and Saturdays.
Primary care near you. On-site labs and X-rays. Call (480) 649-6600 for an appointment.
IN THE NEWS Some residents worried about Dierks Bentley restaurant Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row, a restaurant and bar that features live music, is scheduled to move into Gilbert’s Heritage District. But, some Gilbert residents are concerned that the new location will be too loud and rowdy for the downtown’s family atmosphere. The Gilbert location, planned for the southeastern corner of Gilbert Road and Vaughn Avenue, will feature a 4,700-square-foot patio and an 8,700-square-foot indoor restaurant and bar. While developers said the establishment will complement the area and not be excessively loud, some area residents worry that the music will play early into the morning. Dan Henderson, Gilbert economic development director,
October 2015 7
Community
said the town has a sound ordinance in place and they will be able to use that ordinance should noise become a problem. Mid-decade census starting in October On Oct. 1, Gilbert, Chandler, Queen Creek, Maricopa, Buckeye, Goodyear and Peoria will begin a mid-decade census to update population counts. A census provides an accurate count of its residents, which allows cities to receive a more accurate distribution of public safety and public service funding. Residents can expect census workers to visit between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., any day of the week. They will ask six questions about the number of people living in see NEWS page 12
155 East Warner Road • Gilbert www.BannerHealth.com/HealthCenterGilbert Connect with Banner Health:
8 October 2015
Police, fire investigating railroad bridge arson The Gilbert Fire and Rescue Department and Gilbert Police Department in consultation with ATF Criminal Profilers at the National Center for the Analysis of Violent Crime are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the individual who intentionally set fire to the Union Pacific Railroad bridge located along the SRP canal south of Higley Road and east of Gilbert Road the evening of Aug. 15. Investigators believe the person was responding to a stressful event and decided to target the Union Pacific railroad track bridge. A police official said the person responsible is likely a male who has a direct connection to either Union Pacific or the immediate Gilbert area. GPD public information officer Sgt. Jesse Sanger outlined who the department believe is behind the crime. The person responsible may have exhibited unusual or suspicious behavior or may have been unaccounted for around the time the
Community
fire started. This behavior may have been exhibited by anger or intense frustration. He could have been doing research on the use of accelerants or have prior training or experience. He may have localized or minor burns on his hands or face which he is unable to easily explain. “We know through evidence which has been recovered, as well as investigative leads developed to date, this was done by someone acting alone,” Sanger said in a press release. “Law enforcement has the ability to rule out innocent persons; every lead will be thoroughly investigated. Regardless of how insignificant you think your information might be, we strongly encourage you to come forward, as we welcome your information. This crime was committed by someone within this community and could potentially have put the public or our fire service responders in harm’s way by this deliberate act.” Sanger said the department remains
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confident that it will identify the person responsible for this incident. “We take events of this nature very seriously and are appealing to those individuals who utilize this area for recreational activities to come forward,” Sanger said. “We also believe a member of our community knows this individual and has noticed a recent change in behavior in
the perpetrator.” The reward has been increased up to $15,000 for information that leads to the arrest of this individual. Tipsters have the option to remain anonymous. Contact the Gilbert Fire and Rescue or Police Department or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (948-6377) or 1-800-343TIPS. (8477).
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October 2015 9
Community
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10 October 2015
Type O-negative blood needed in Arizona
It takes 500 donors of all blood types to maintain Arizona’s blood supply for just one day. Blood donors help kids like Madison, who is alive today because of more than 148 blood donors. The Arizona 8-year-old was born with Diamond Blackfan Anemia, a rare disease that prevents her body from producing red blood cells. She relies on the kindness of strangers to provide lifesaving blood transfusions about every three weeks at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. “Blood donors deserve medals for their lifesaving actions,” said her mom, Aimee. “I am so thankful for people who donate regularly because they understand the need for transfusions is constant.” To make an appointment to Find the Hero in You, call 1-877-UBS-HERO (1-877827-4376) or visit www.BloodHero.com (enter your city or ZIP code). All blood types are needed, however, Type O-negative is always in greatest demand. Here are upcoming blood drives in Gilbert: • 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6, LDS Gilbert Stake, 777 E. Elliot Rd., Cultural Hall
Community
Madison, an 8-year-old Arizona resident, was born with Diamond Blackfan Anemia, a rare disease that prevents her body from producing red blood cells. Submitted photo
• 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct 24, LDS San Tan and Williams Field Stakes, 3775 S. Greenfield Rd., Bloodmobile • 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, First United Methodist Church, 331 S Cooper Rd, Activity Center • 7:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, St Mary Magdalene, 2654 E. Williams Field Rd., Bloodmobile
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PARKING from page 1
Dan Henderson, who direct Gilbert’s Office of Economic Development, assures that he will not let that happen. “We have 2,019 parking spaces total in the district right now. According to code, that’s actually almost 300 surplus parking spaces,” Henderson said. But more than enough is not enough, given Gilbert’s continued expansion. “Six new restaurants are currently planned to open by summer of next year,” Henderson said. While that may seem a stretch for an area that already boasts enough eating establishments to keep a person in three meals a day at different restaurants for nearly two weeks, it’s not. “Visit Gilbert on almost any day of the week and the restaurants have a wait time, and not just at lunch and dinner, but throughout the day. It’s always bustling,” Henderson said. To keep ahead of the infrastructure curve, the Town of Gilbert hired consultants earlier this year to examine “parking, traffic, way-finding” and others elements of urban life. “In July, their reports were finished and submitted to our development commission,” in anticipation of the town’s 2018 rewrite of the Gilbert development plan—a revision required by the Town’s charter. “The last redevelopment was in 2008.
It’s mandatory every ten years,” Henderson said. What were the consultants’ recommendations? Their reports are available online, at www.gilbertaz.gov/ departments/economic-development/ heritage-district. Some of their ideas about the future of parking in downtown Gilbert include: • Accommodating another 900-plus parked cars in two new parking structures would be a good thing. Four possible sites for these structures have been identified. (The Heritage District already has one parking structure, a 364-space building constructed last year at a cost of $7 million.) • Parking meters are not the best way to pay for on-street parking. Instead, the consultants suggest a “fee-inlieu-of-parking” for the district’s businesses. This is a strategy typically employed to pay for shared parking in a dense area. While a large grocery store must buy and maintain space for its parking, the businesses in a crowded downtown are responsible to pay for the shared parking provided for them by the civic government. • Limiting time for on-street parking would help the in-and-out flow of visitors to the district.
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• More on-street parking could be created by converting the outside lanes of Gilbert Road to parallel parking. Henderson emphasized that at this point, nothing has been decided. The town’s development committee is looking at the reports and will make a decision down the line. Among the challenges of urban planning, Henderson pointed out, is that the rate of growth is not foreseeable. It may continue into the future as it is, or slow down, or even accelerate. “The district has 10 parcels of land that could be developed over time,” he said. “We currently have 1.3 million square feet of development in the area, and a total build-out would be another 3 million square feet. But we have no way of telling if that build-out will happen in 20 years
or 50 years.” At total build-out, the number of parking spaces required would be around 6,000. Recent investment in the district would suggest that build-out could happen sooner rather than later. Henderson pointed out that $65 million in private money has been invested in the area in the last two years alone, including $38 million by St. Xavier University, Gilbert’s first institution of higher education. “As the symbolic center of the community, we think of the Heritage District as the community’s family room, where residents and visitors alike congregate to enjoy the entrepreneurial restaurants, retail, entertainment, learning and arts and culture developments,” Henderson said.
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The Oaks celebrates grand opening The Oaks, A Merrill Gardens Community held a ribbon-cutting ceremony in conjunction with the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, Sept. 24, to celebrate the grand opening of the facility. The Oaks features 111 senior apartments with independent living, assisted living and memory care. Many of the residents were on hand for the grand opening event. The Oaks is located at 3675 S. Rome St.
October 2015 11
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NEWS from page 7
the home, and the data provided will be kept confidential and only used for population count.
market in the space between Oregano’s Pizza Bistro and Snooze Eatery on Gilbert Road.
turning to solid red; when it is red, drivers should stop while the firefighters exit the station.
Four suffer bee stings Four people including a 3-year-old and a firefighter were recently taken to the hospital after being stung numerous times by bees that had swarmed a Gilbert neighborhood. A Gilbert Fire and Rescue crew responded to the area of Pecos and Higley roads after getting reports that people were being stung by bees. Upon arrival, firefighters saw about 1,000 bees swarming in the area. The 3-year-old and a firefighter were stung between 50 and 100 times and were taken to a hospital, along with a 14-yearold and a 22-year-old.
Isagenix relocating to Gilbert Isagenix International, a multimilliondollar health and wellness company, has announced it will relocate its worldwide headquarters from Chandler to Gilbert by the end of 2015. The new location will be located off of Gilbert Road and the Loop 202. The move should add hundreds of jobs to Isagenix’s workforce, many of which have already been filled.
New retail and entertainment options coming to Heritage District The Town of Gilbert recently awarded two new projects to local development company MD Heritage that will bring more shopping and entertainment choices to the busy downtown Heritage District. One project features a 12,000-square-foot venue north of Hale Centre Theatre that may include a brewery, restaurant and more. The company also plans to build an urban
New emergency beacon assists firefighters A new emergency beacon is now in front of Gilbert Fire Station No. 7, near the intersection of Cooper and Warner roads. Firefighters trigger the beacon as they leave the station on a call. When the beacon is activated, it will flash yellow and then turn solid yellow before
Group of seven accused of stealing from Gilbert stores Seven people have been accused of stealing thousands of dollars of designer items from merchants throughout the Valley, including in Gilbert. James Vasquez, 26, Eric Camarena, 23, Carolina Maldonado, 22, Michael Galindo, 26, Alex Galindo, 24, Leonel Duarte, 21, and Rene Camarena, 28, are accused of taking $50,043.87 in high-end handbags, sunglasses and clothing between May and September from various stores in Maricopa County. Police said the group admits to stealing from stores throughout the area. In all, they are suspected in 49 cases.
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Hoffman resigns from Governing Board position Jake Hoffman, a Higley Unified School District Governing Board member, submitted his letter of resignation on Sept. 1 because he has moved out of the district. People who are interested in the position may pick up an application packet at the district office; packets must be returned by Oct. 14. The Maricopa County superintendent of schools will appoint someone to fill out his term, which ends Dec. 31, 2016. Student-athlete earns athletic achievement Allyson Dell’Amico of Gilbert recently earned the 2014-2015 Division 2 Athletics Directors Association Academic Achievement Award recognition. The Academic Achievement Awards recognizes the academic accomplishments of student athletes at the Division 2 level. To be eligible, a student-athlete must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale, have a minimum of two years of college level work, and have been an active member of an intercollegiate team during his or her last academic year.
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Community
Census workers visit homes
Gilbert residents can expect to hear from Census workers who will begin surveying neighborhoods this month to make sure every town resident is counted. New homes, businesses and industry have moved into Gilbert since the 2010 Census. Officials estimate that the town has added more than 30,000 residents. They say it is critical that the town gets an accurate population count to receive its fair share of state and federal funds. Portions of state shared revenue are allocated based on population. These dollars will help continue to deliver services to residents and assist with the town’s build-out, according to the town’s website. Census data helps compute money received by communities for healthcare, schools and education, daycare programs, transportation planning and services for seniors. Workers will interview residents if they live in Gilbert for six months or longer during the year. Census workers will be wearing official badges issued by the U.S. Census Bureau. They may also be wearing a lime green “Be Counted” t-shirt. The survey lasts about 10 minutes. If a Census worker stops by and a resident is not home, the worker will leave a note on the door with additional information on how that resident can call in to complete the survey. For information, visit www.gilbertcensus.com or call (480) 503-6565.
The Bills join a new league The Prime Time Athletics South Gilbert Bills take the field for the 2015 season. The team has started the season 3-0. Coach Aaron Kolodny said the players “rely on their unique talents and unique chemistry to stay competitive, and display true sportsmanship and fair etiquette to round out their success.” “Being the new team on the block suites them well,” Kolodny said. “The transition has been great on all ends. Prime Time Athletics South Gilbert is a very well-run and competitive league.” Pictured on the front page are, from left, Shea Barry, Jake Goins, Cole Edmonds, Ari Kolodny, Collin Campbell, Andrew Hines, Jackson Adams and Luke Ebright.
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Chamber names Gilbert Leadership members Gilbert Leadership, a program of the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, has named 28 members to this year’s class as the program continues to raise awareness of community concerns by helping leaders identify opportunities to serve the Town of Gilbert. Gilbert Leadership is a 10-month development program that brings class members together one day each month to focus on specific issues and to provide an insider’s look at healthcare and social services, community culture, town history, local education and government, economic development and public safety. Participants are tasked with selecting, organizing and raising funds for a class project that will be of benefit and significant contribution to the Town of Gilbert and its residents. The following individuals have been chosen for Gilbert Leadership Class XXIV: Debra Adornetto-Garcia, Banner Gateway Medical Center Becca Bo, Bo Painting Company Inc. Randy Bressler, CertaPro Painters Amber Costa, Town of Gilbert Jennifer Crews, Dignity Health Sam Cutruzzula, Salt River Project Matt Dallas, N2 PublishingDSC015 Gilbert Sun News 10x5.4 Ad
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Neighborhood Networks Stacia Ehlen, Re/MAX Becky Hansen, DPR Realty Susan Holliefield, Town of Gilbert Aaron Howard, GMIA Marilynn Igleski, Yoga Stylz Jaime Johnson, Life Community Church Patrick Lahnan, Dignity Health Sara Lidman, Rayhons Financial Catherine Lorbeer, Town of Gilbert Anthony Martinez, Gateway Commercial Bank Brenda Masters, ICAN Renée Mesnik, Rio Salado College Lisa Miller, Mercy Gilbert Medical Center Sharon Morris, Salt River Project Yessica Munoz, Chandler Christian Community Church Mickie Shaw, Newman Realty Jän Simon, AAA of Arizona Michelle Taylor, Transamerica Financial Advisors Inc. Chris Timmick, The Timmick Team @ HomeSmart Linda Tunney, Town of Gilbert Elisa Vincitorio, Two Rivers Church.
“Each class has developed its own identity, and this one will be no different,” said Class9:31 II Graduate and FINAL.pdf 1 8/20/15 AM
Board President Les Presmyk. “We try to prepare the class for the journey they are about to embark upon and I am confident each member of Class XXIV is ready.” More than 415 individuals have graduated from the program since its inception, including Mercy Gilbert Medical Center CEO Tim Bricker; past Gilbert mayor Cynthia Dunham; Adelaida Severson, CEO of Bushtex; Kathy Tilque, president and CEO of the Gilbert Chamber; Town Manager Patrick Banger, and many other community leaders. The Gilbert Leadership program is supported through sponsorship by American Family Insurance, APS, Asset Preservation and Restoration Services, Dignity Health – Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, Family Life Financial Solutions, Leading Edge Academy, Morrison Ranch, N2 Publishing, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, SRP, and Friends of Gilbert Leadership. For more information about Gilbert Leadership, contact Melanie Shaha at (480) 941-6324 or visit www. gilbertleadership.com
15
October 2015
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit, membership-based organization with more than 650 members ranging from home-based businesses to large corporations and representing more than 52,000 employees. The Chamber proactively serves as a business advocate to strengthen the business climate in Gilbert. To learn more about or join the Chamber, contact (480) 892-0056 or visit www. gilbertaz.com.
16
October 2015
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Taste of SanTan to feature 16 restaurants BY MEGHAN MCCOY
Foodies will have the opportunity to sample food from more than a dozen restaurants at SanTan Village while supporting an East Valley organization this month. The Taste of SanTan will be held from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9, at SanTan Village, 2218 E. Williams Field Rd. Tickets for the 21-and-older event are $50, with $25 tax-deductible. “This event supports Save the Family’s general operating budget by generating over $50,000 in gross revenue annually,” said Tina Lopez, Save the Family Foundation of Arizona’s chief development officer. Lopez said the event can hold up to 800 attendees and has sold out in years past. She said eight years ago shopping center operator Macerich, formerly Westcor, approached Save the Family about being the beneficiary. The organization said yes. “Over the years this has become one of two of Save the Family’s signature fundraising events, which is hosted by SanTan Village and managed and facilitated by Save the Family,” Lopez said. The event will feature unlimited food tastings from 16 restaurants in the shopping center. Beer, wine and signature Santinis will be provided by Tito’s Vodka, as well as other refreshing nonalcoholic beverages. The restaurants include Barnes & Noble Café; Brio Tuscan Grille; Caketini; Cantina Laredo; Famous Dave’s; Fat Straw; Frost Gelato; Gordon Biersch; Grimaldi’s; Johnny Rockets; The Keg; Kona Grill; Paradise Bakery; Wok Box and World of Beer. “Guests will be served samplings from each restaurant that will range from fajitas, chopped pork sliders and Japanese yellowtail sashimi to brownies, cheesecakes and cannolis,” Lopez said.
Tickets are available for the many raffle prizes. Submitted photo
At 7 p.m. TreJa Vu Band will perform followed by Arizona’s Original Dance Crew Footklan. Cornhole and door prizes will also be available. A free photo booth is being provided by Cox Communications and free caricature drawings are included. There’s even more. “There will also be a super raffle that you do not need to be present to win, which includes prizes of $500 SanTan Village shopping spree, Apple iWatch, a year of date nights, events tickets galore featuring tickets to sporting events, concerts and local shows, and a wine tasting for 20 people from Total Wine & More,” Lopez said. Tickets can be purchased by calling
(480) 466-7714 for $20, four for $50, or 12 for $100. Save the Family was founded in 1988 in Mesa and has housing in Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe, Scottsdale and a domestic violence shelter in Phoenix, housing 14 single moms with children. The organization has a three-pronged approach to equip families with what they need while addressing poverty and overcoming homelessness. “Last year Save the Family assisted over 500 homeless, low-income and veteran families with housing, case management and extensive supportive services to get them on the path to self-sufficiency,” Lopez said. The organization’s supportive services include the Career Development Center that provides resources, skills, job training and mentoring, which assists their clients in getting back into the workforce. The center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Childcare and transportation is facilitated to help parents while they are searching for a job. “Our Career Development Center Program offers classes to help with the pre-employment process, such as resume writing, mock interviews, job leads, GED training and testing, dress for success and more,” Lopez said. “We also provide soft skills training, such as communication, listening skills and body language, which are all important factors in obtaining and keeping employment. Clients are trained on computers, given manuals and materials that relate to computer skills, taught typing skills, office equipment training and Microsoft training.” She said 80 percent of their adult clients are women and, of those, 45 percent are victims of domestic violence.
Revelers indulge in food and drink from more than a dozen area residents during Taste of SanTan. Submitted photos
The event supports Save the Family’s general operating budget by generating over $50,000 in gross revenue annually,” according to Tina Lopez. Submitted photos
Neighbors
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October 2015
SPACIOUS HOME IN VAL VISTA LAKES! 4 bedrooms PLUS office/den
Local blogger celebrates all things food BY MEGHAN MCCOY
Scarlett Bendixen enjoys blogging about food on her Made It. Ate It. Loved It. site. She said it’s fun because she can share the stories behind her dishes. “My mom had published a few cookbooks (and I have been) baking and cooking my entire life,” the Arizona native and, now, Gilbert resident said. About 18 months ago, Bendixen became part of Krusteaz Baker’s Dozen, a group of creative food and baking bloggers. She was invited to join after she contacted the public relations staff asking for a beer bread mix. “They sent me a beer bread mix that I had never heard of and never baked with,” she said. “I created soft pretzels.” Bendixen is inspired by visits to restaurants and sampling their dishes. When she returns home, she recreates the meal with a few twists. One of those visits yielded pineapple upside down pancakes using a box of Krusteaz as a way of celebrating National Breakfast Month in September. “I’m always looking for fun ways to eat pancakes,” Bendixen said. The recipe uses Krusteaz buttermilk pancake mix combined with vanilla cream syrup and cinnamon butter. Bendixen said she enjoys being a part of Krusteaz Baker’s Dozen because of the members’ creativity. She said it’s a lot of fun to create something different that no one will think of, all while using box mixes. “People don’t realize you can do so much from the box of Krusteaz mixes,” she said. “There is a lot of trial and error, but it is fun.” Her blog posts include a plethora of photographs, the recipe and how her family enjoyed the dish. Her brood includes three children who are 3, 5 and 7, two of whom are picky eaters. Bendixen said she enjoys giving her kids a variety of meals. Since joining the group, she creates recipes monthly. “We did a back-to-school cooking one,” she said. “I just turned in a pumpkin recipe that will feature next month.” Her blog can be found at www. madeitateitlovedit.com.
Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes Ingredients: 2 cups Krusteaz buttermilk pancake mix 1/3 cup water 1/4 cup brown sugar 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices, cut into fourths Vanilla Cream Syrup ingredients: 1/2 cup butter 1 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup buttermilk 1/2 cup heavy cream Pinch of salt 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 teaspoon baking soda
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Cinnamon Butter ingredients: 1/4 cup butter, softened 1/4 cup powdered sugar 1/4 cup honey 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon Instructions: Preheat griddle to 375 degrees. Mix together the pancake mix and water with a wire whisk. Batter will still be slightly lumpy. Pour about 1/4 cup of the pancake mix on the griddle. Sprinkle a tablespoon of brown sugar on the mix once it is on the griddle. Place three pieces of the cut pineapple slices over the brown sugar. Cook for about 1 to 1 1/2 minutes or until ready to flip. Then cook on the other side for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes. Vanilla Cream Syrup instructions In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add sugar, buttermilk, heavy cream, and salt. Continue stirring until it comes to a boil. Once it comes to a boil remove from heat and add vanilla and baking soda. Cinnamon Butter instructions: Whip all ingredients together. Once everything is done cooking, grab a few pancakes and top with a spoonful of cinnamon butter. You can add leftover pineapple and sprinkles of brown sugar on top too. Then pour over the vanilla cream syrup and enjoy.
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October 2015
Black-tie event to raise funds for stroke therapy programs BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
Dr. Brian Beck admits he’s never seen the ABC TV show “Dancing with the Stars.” If he had, he might have been a little apprehensive about participating in the first “Dancing for Stroke” fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa. “It would have probably been a lot scarier than what I have in mind,” Beck said with a laugh. “It’s the first time I’ve done any dancing whatsoever. My wife is excited to watch me.” Beck is one of 10 doctors, nurses and hospital staff who are training with Arizona Ballroom Champions instructors for the fundraiser. The participants have only three months to learn their dance routines. Beck will be dancing the tango and cha-cha as part of the event, which benefits Dignity Health East Valley stroke programs. “We’re doing it for stroke camp for Dignity Health,” Beck explained. “They have one of those per year right now. It’s in Prescott. Twenty five patients come up at a time and the camp gives them the chance to be in a different situation than
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they normally would have being at home with the daily grind.” It allows patients as well as caregivers time away from the stresses of having to deal with the implications of a stroke. Organizers are hoping to raise $150,000 to $200,000 so they can increase the camp to twice a year, thereby doubling the number of patients it serves. The evening will begin with a preshow event, dinner at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa, then the dancers will compete in front of three judges, including Jonathan Roberts of “Dancing with the Stars” and Bree Watson, a champion professional dancer. The judges will rate the participants and the audience will determine the winners. “There’s going to be a nice cocktail party before the event,” said Shawn Nerdhal of Chandler’s Arizona Ballroom Champions and one of the fundraiser’s creators. “There will be a couple of performances before the event gets started. After everybody dances, there will be time to dance to DJ music. The whole audience
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Dignity Health Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp is just one of the groups that would benefit from the “Dancing for Stroke” fundraiser Saturday, Oct. 3 at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa. Submitted photo
can get up and dance.” For Nerdhal, it’s been a satisfying run. “It’s very rewarding to watch people think that they can’t do it, and then grow into something that they love,” Nerdhal said. For information about “Dancing for Stroke,” including ticket prices, contact Terri Lamb of Dignity Health East Valley Foundation at (480) 201-1057 or visit www.dancingforstrokeaz.com.
Terri Lamb and Shawn Nerdahl came up with the idea for the “Dancing for Stroke” fundraiser. Submitted photo
Neighbors
www.GilbertSunNews.com
New Papa Murphy’s offers free pizza Starting at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, the first 100 customers in line at Papa Murphy’s new store at 1981 E. Pecos Rd. in Gilbert will receive a free large pepperoni pizza. After the giveaway ends, large pepperoni pizzas will be $4 on Saturday. The regular price of a large pepperoni
pizza is $11.25. Additionally, the new location will offer customers pizza-tasting, games, prizes and other kid-friendly activities throughout the day on Saturday. On Wednesday, Oct. 14, Thursday, Oct. 15, and Sunday, Oct. 18, the Gilbert and Pecos location will offer large pepperoni pizzas for $6. The newest location is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily and is owned by Jesse and Toni Bolander. The Gilbert and Pecos Papa Murphy’s will host a ribbon cutting at 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 14, with the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce. Customers can text AZ099 to 90421 for a chance to win the grand prize, of free pizza for a year through Oct. 15. The Gilbert and Pecos location can be reached at (480) 726-6770.
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October 2015
Neighbors
Fall concert series set for downtown BY TRACY HOUSE
Grab the family, pack a picnic basket and head to The Downtown Concert Series premiering 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 8, at the Water Tower Plaza in Gilbert’s Heritage District. The fall concert series runs every other Thursday night through Dec. 3, as well as Wednesday, Nov. 18, when the Water Tower Lighting will take place. Mike Leppert, recreation coordinator for the Town of Gilbert, said the concert series was moved downtown last year from Freestone Park. “We wanted to do something on a Thursday night for people. The weekend is pretty busy downtown. Friday and Saturday, we didn’t want to bring more people. We want to bring more people downtown on a weekday.” The free outdoor concert features music from different genres, with local business sponsored booths on hand with information and hand-outs. Restaurants in the area will be open for dinner. “We’re always encouraging folks to eat or go to the downtown restaurants; go before the concert or grab it to go and eat it out at the concert,” Leppert said. There is limited seating downtown, so
Leppert is encouraging residents to bring a blanket or chair, the latter of which is permitted in designated areas only. “There’s a lot of nice grass areas to sit out there.”
“It’s a great community event for Gilbert,” Leppert said. “I think we’re servicing a lot more ZIP codes in Gilbert, meaning there are a lot more people from different areas of Gilbert coming downtown.”
The Downtown Concert Series premieres Thursday, Oct. 8, at the Water Tower Plaza in Gilbert’s Heritage District. Submitted photo
Leppert said the splash pad will be open for kids to run through prior to the concert and during intermission. “It’s one of the amenities that is already existing at the park,” he said.
There are a variety of performers slated for the series. Local bands scheduled for the concert include: Swain’s World, Thursday, Oct. 8; Sir Harrison Band, Thursday, Oct. 22; Come Back Buddy, Thursday, Nov. 5; Joshua Stone
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Band, Wednesday, Nov. 18; and Dueling Pianos, Thursday, Dec. 3. “We try typically try to stay local on all these and try to have some fun, give a variety of genres, so we’ll have a cover band one week, a rock n’ roll, a country band one week, and then we’ll have a ‘50s/‘60s band. We’re ending the series with the Dueling Pianos, which is always kind of fun, where they play a little bit of everything,” Leppert said. The Thursday, Nov. 5, concert will be held at the new St. Xavier University, 92 W. Vaughn Ave. “It’ll be one block north of Water Tower Plaza,” Leppert said. “It’s a special engagement. We’ll be holding that concert on the St. Xavier campus.” There will not be onsite food or beverage vendors, so the public is encouraged to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy during the concert. Alcohol and glass containers are not permitted. Free public parking is available at the Gilbert Park and Ride on Page Avenue, south of Water Tower Plaza. The spring concert series picks up again in March. For more information about bands, to become a sponsor or performing at the Fall Concert Series visit, www.gilbertaz.gov/departments/parksand-recreation/special-events/concerts-inthe-park.
Snooze offers unique breakfast dishes BY KATHY KERBY
Snooze: An A.M. Eatery just opened in July but it’s already become a favorite in Gilbert. On a recent visit with my husband, Lou, there was a 20- to 30-minute wait for a table, but it flew by as we just observed the action and enjoyed the energy of the restaurant. The staff is young, diverse and energetic and each one seemed to really enjoy serving the crowd, which was a nice range of babies in carriers to retired seniors.
With an urban feel, massive windows, funky round booths, large orange pendant lights and a well-stocked bar, Snooze seemed to delight its 145 guests. A festive patio on the west side provides seating for perhaps 50 and there was enough shade to block our Arizona sun. While we were there, we chatted with general manager Matt Brower, who calls himself “The Rooster.” He is a 25-year food industry veteran and said that Snooze is “all about having fun.” His motto is “it only takes a moment to make a difference.” The first Snooze opened in Colorado in 2006 and the Gilbert location is No. 12 and the third in Arizona. We received a text to let us know our table was ready and our server, Arlen,
brought our menus. He let us know that they are made from recycled paper and that sustainability, which includes composting and recycling, is important. Snooze also donates 1 percent of sales to the local community. The menu was delightful, placing the dishes into four categories—“flavors from the hen,” “the art of Hollandaise,” “like a feather” and “sweet utopia.” This menu oozed creativity and each offering sounded even better than the last. We made our choices and shortly. Arlen brought our beautiful breakfast pot pie ($9), OMG! French toast ($9.50), Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes ($7.50) and threeegg omelet ($9.75). Lou dug into the pot pie which was a tasty tower of puff pastry
smothered with rosemary sausage gravy and topped with a sunny side up egg and a side of hash browns. The OMG! French toast was almost too pretty to eat with brioche stuffed with mascarpone cheese and topped with vanilla crème, salted caramel, fresh strawberries and toasted coconut. Each bite was an explosion of flavor. For the omelet, there is a lengthy list of meats, cheeses, veggies and sauces so the possibilities are endless. Lou chose bacon, sausage and wild mushrooms with sourdough toast and hash browns. The omelet was unbelievably light and fluffy, cooked perfectly and served piping hot. The pineapple upside down pancake with caramelized pineapple chunks and cinnamon butter is a Snooze original. We couldn’t finish this enormous sweet delicacy so our grandchildren enjoyed it for an afternoon snack. The manager and staff of Snooze want their guests to enjoy the best dining experience possible. They’ve accomplished that. Snooze: An A.M. Eatery 310 N. Gilbert Rd. Gilbert 85234 (480) 664-4488 www.snoozeeatery.com
www.GilbertSunNews.com
Neighbors
October 2015
21
Fair celebrates U.S. Constitution
The Town of Gilbert’s Constitution Fair is the largest celebration of Constitution Week in the country. Set aside in the 1950s as an observance of the founding document of the United States, Constitution Week runs from Sept. 17 to Sept. 23 annually. Gilbert celebrates it with a parade and with volunteers who go into schools with educational materials. This year’s event culminated in a fair featuring period re-enactments, exhibits and entertainment. GSN photos by Kimberly Carrillo
Attendees visit a food truck to purchase hot dogs.
Rifles sit outside of an English encampment.
A replica of the Liberty Bell is exhibited against the backdrop of a painted sky.
Rows of memorials commemorate those who served our country.
Singers entertain the audience.
A squadron of planes perform a flyby.
A live Lady Liberty posed for the entire event.
Suzy Plinkett gets a trading card from one of the characters.
Characters visit and talk during the event.
Visitors examine some of the military vehicles on display.
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October 2015
Gilbert Fall Carnival coming to Crossroads Park BY TRACY HOUSE
Crossroads Park will be transformed for the Town’s annual fall carnival Thursday, Oct. 8, through Sunday, Oct. 11. The four-day event will feature rides like the Ferris wheel, Zipper and merrygo-round, games and fair treats. There will be carnival games for prizes, too. “It’s a fun, four-day event,” said Mike Leppert, recreation coordinator for the Town of Gilbert. “There will be light snacks available for purchase.” Admission is free, but rides require paid wrist bands. Discounted ride wrist bands are being sold through Oct. 7 for $15 for unlimited rides for one day at www. gilbertrecreation.com. “If you buy them that day of the event they’ll be more money,” Leppert said. “It’s free to get in, but each ride is individualized. Tickets are $1 a piece and then each ride is one to four or five tickets. They will have wristbands for sale the day of.” Local vendors will be out at the event
Neighbors
sharing information and hosting giveaways from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday, Oct. 9, and Saturday, Oct. 10. “Come out and have some fun in Arizona. Enjoy the weather, outdoors. Let the wind blow in your hair while you’re on the Ferris wheel,” Leppert said. Carnival hours are 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8; 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9; 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11; and 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12. The Gilbert Fall Carnival is presented by St. Xavier University. The all-ages free event will be held at Crossroads Park located at 2155 E. Knox Rd., Gilbert, near Greenfield Road. Children 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. For more information or to be a sponsor, contact Mike Leppert at (480) 503-6235, email him at mike.leppert@gilbertaz.gov, or visit www.gilbertaz.gov/departments/ parks-and-recreation/special-events/fallcarnival.
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Friends for Life host 16th annual BARKtoberfest Celebrate all things dog at the 16th annual BARKtoberfest from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, at Gilbert Town Center, 50 E. Civic Center Dr. BARKtoberfest has grown each year and 7,500 are expected to attend this year’s event to enjoy live DJ entertainment, food trucks, shopping booths, fine arts and crafts, dog wash, Lure Course, an agility course, dog art (DOGvinci), dog adoptions, raffles, contests for pet and owner lookalike, best trick and costumes and more. Admission is free but some activities require a small donation. All of the proceeds go toward saving the lives
of homeless dogs and cats in our community. Last year, the organizers sent 14 dogs home and even finalized one cat adoption at the event. Friends for Live Animal Rescue, located at 143 W. Vaughn Ave., Gilbert, is a 501(c) (3) registered nonprofit, volunteer-run, no-kill shelter dedicated to ending the suffering of homeless dogs and cats in the community. For more information, call (480) 4978296 or email pr@azfriends.org. The club’s website is www.azfriends.org or follow the group on Facebook.
Celebrate dogs at the 16th annual BARKtoberfest from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, at Gilbert Town Center, 50 E. Civic Center Dr. Submitted photo
No need to break the bank this Halloween Showing that the Halloween spirit is alive and well across America, a new survey from Savers thrift stores finds that with Halloween falling on a Saturday this year, people plan to revel in the festivities all
“Halloweekend” long. More than 56 percent will attend Halloween parties and nearly as many will visit multiple parties. Young and old alike plan to participate with close to six in 10 reporting they typically don costumes for Halloween and 92 percent of parents saying their kids will dress up. Pop culture inspired The majority of people (51 percent) who celebrate Halloween say that current events, entertainment or pop culture tend to inspire their costumes. As the election season progresses, most Americans (63 percent) believe that the Democratic candidates for president will have better costumes than the current Republican candidates this year. And no matter what color you saw, nearly 30 percent believe that “The Dress” will be the 2015 event that will inspire the most Halloween costumes this year. There are still traditionalists in the mix, with almost 30 percent stating they typically stick to classic Halloween themes
such as ghosts and witches. From trick or treat to deals and steals One in two agree that it’s not necessary to spend a fortune to earn the title best costume. In fact, 41 percent feel that secondhand or thrift stores are great for costume inspiration, which represents a 20 percent jump from last year. The vast majority (68 percent) usually won’t buy new packaged costumes. Instead, they combine new and used, make outfits by hand, repeat costumes or borrow from others. Other trends Who wore it best? Celebrities Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift lead the pack in who is predicted to have the best Halloween costume of 2015 (21 and 19 percent, respectively). Meanwhile Willow and Jaden Smith are expected to have the best celebrity child costume this year (25 percent). Top TV inspiration: For the third consecutive year, “The Walking Dead” (33
percent) rates as the top TV show to inspire Halloween costumes this year. Fun for fido: For millions of Americans, it’s important for pets to get in on the howlo-ween fun. One in two (50 percent) pet owners report that their furry friends have been known to wear Halloween costumes. Planning makes perfect: Chances are, you’re already thinking about Halloween. The survey found that people typically start preparing costumes almost three months (81 days) ahead of Halloween. “Year after year, we see demand for new and used Halloween merchandise continue to grow, and with Halloween falling on a Saturday this year, we expect adults and children alike to celebrate with multiple parties and multiple costumes,” said Ken Alterman, president and CEO of Savers. “We are proud to be the place shoppers know they can stay under budget and stand out from the crowd not only for Halloween, but all year long.”
www.GilbertSunNews.com
Business
October 2015
2015 East Valley Business Expo set for Oct. 21 BY ALISON STANTON
Business owners who want to promote their products and services will get their chance during the 2015 East Valley Business Expo in Gilbert. The event, which is from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, will be held at St. Xavier University, 92 W. Vaughn Ave., Gilbert. Sarah Watts, communications and marketing director for the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, said admission to the event, which also features workshops and seminars, is free with a business card. “We have been holding this event for close to 20 years, and this is the first opportunity to bring it into our community,” she said, adding that she and others are expecting a larger crowd than ever. “There is a real buzz about the location; people are excited to have it at St. Xavier University.” Watts said the expo, which is the largest annual event of its size in the East Valley, is an ideal way for business owners to meet both other owners and consumers. “It’s a great opportunity for vendors to feature their business’ products and services, and for people to see how they can partner with one another,” she said. “We’ve seen a huge response from the
Gilbert business community.” The expo is a joint production of the Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa and Tempe chambers of commerce, Watts said, and draws exhibitors, attendees and talent from the four organizations. Last year, more than 1,500 people attended the expo and over 100 exhibitors were on site to showcase their companies. In addition to giving business owners the chance to meet hundreds of potential
customers in one day, Watts said the East Valley Business Expo will also feature door prizes, raffles and giveaways. Sponsors of the event include Gilbert Sun News, SanTan Sun News in Chandler, AlphaGraphics of Gilbert, Landings Credit Union, Desert Schools Federal Credit Union-McKellips Branch, IKEA, Costco, the Phoenix Business Journal and many others. Watts said business owners will still learn a lot by attending the event, and
members of the community are welcome to attend. For example, she said, attendees can network and mingle with other business professionals, establish new contacts, learn from the exhibitors are new products and services, and be in the same place as other industry professionals. For more information about the 2015 East Valley Business Expo, visit www.eastvalleybusinessexpo.com.
More than 1,500 attendees enjoyed learning about local businesses during a previous East Valley Business Expo. The 2015 East Valley Business Expo is on Oct. 21 in Gilbert. Submitted photo
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Business
October 2015
Local man named to Boulders Resort management team Gilbert resident Scott Doonan has been named director of sales and marketing at the Boulders Resort & Spa, a 220-room luxury resort. He is responsible for all sales, marketing and convention/ catering activities at the property. “Scott is a highly respected leader with a proven track record of successful sales efforts. We couldn’t be more pleased about this appointment” said Howard Harris, general manager.
Scott Doonan. Submitted photo
Active
Doonan brings more than 15 years of experience in hotel/resort sales and marketing to his position at Boulders. He began his career in 1996 with the TanTar-A Resort at the Lake of the Ozarks, located in Osage Beach, Missouri. There he learned all aspects of the hospitality industry, from bell stand and front office management to sales and marketing, where he later became a senior sales manager. In 2007, he was promoted to director of sales and marketing at the Hilton Anchorage Hotel in Alaska. In 2011, he was named general manager at the Anchorage Marriott Downtown before returning to the Hilton Anchorage as general manager, where he stayed for two years. Doonan then moved his family to the desert southwest in 2014, where he held the position as director of sales and marketing at the Phoenix Airport Marriott prior to his move to the Boulders Resort & Spa. A graduate of the University of Iowa, Doonan earned a Bachelor of Arts in communications degree. He and his wife, Renee, and children Brooke and Alex reside in Gilbert.
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Wisdom president honored by magazine BY MEGHAN MCCOY
Carol May, the president of Gilbertbased Wisdom Natural Brands, was one of 50 Arizona women to be named Women of the Year by AZ Business Magazine. “It’s an extraordinary honor,” May said. “It was marvelous to meet those women and to be named as one of them was very humbling and inspiring to go and do more and to make a difference in our community, our state and in our industry. “There were over 2,000 nominations made and they whittled it down to 50. Of those 50, I was the only one that came out of the manufacturing business. Most of them were from health care, law and banking. It’s a very great honor to represent those in our industry and to get to network and meet and learn from the other women who were there. It was an extraordinary gathering of enthusiasm and encouragement. I was grateful to be there.”
Wisdom Natural Brands President Carol May. Submitted photo
Wisdom Natural Brands is the parent company of the stevia brand SweetLeaf. May joined the company 20 years ago after her husband, James, founded it 13 years prior. May said when James tried a stevia leaf, he was so taken by it that he felt there was a business opportunity there. “His vision took some time to really get some traction,” she said. “It happened over the years and now the leaves accepted the world over as a marvelous, no calorie, no carbohydrates sweetener that is all natural and won’t raise your blood pressure.” SweetLeaf starts with a little stevia
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www.GilbertSunNews.com plant that is processed with great care. There are no chemicals used during the processing, to ensure no aftertastes. May said they are constantly developing new uses for the plant as they continue to meet their customers’ needs. In the fourth quarter the company will introduce four new product lines. “We are always looking for innovation and enhancement of those products that we currently have,” May said. Wisdom Natural Brands’ products are distributed worldwide. “It’s been a blessing to me. I have been the president the last three and half years,” May said. “This year we are doing 25 percent over last year and we are on target to increase that by at least another 5 to 10 percent by the end of the year with a new group of products that we will be bringing out in the next six months or so.” The honoree said she enjoys having the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. “It gives people the choice to enjoy foods and beverages, which normally they would not consider, or their health professionals would not consider their best choice,” she said. “We are fortunate that people like what we do and we are able to make a difference in their life.” For more information, visit www. sweetleaf.com.
Cholewka Law to celebrate fifth anniversary
In celebration of its upcoming five-year anniversary, Cholewka Law invites the public to Postino Winecafe, 302 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 102, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15, to enjoy light appetizers and a chance to win prizes. The prizes include two tickets to a performance at the Hale Centre Theatre and a $500 Amazon gift card. Since opening its doors in October 2010, Cholewka Law has been dedicated to serving the community of Gilbert and supporting activities that help make it such a great place to work and live. Founding attorney and 11-year Gilbert resident, Becky Cholewka, reflected on the past five years. “Most small businesses don’t reach this milestone, let alone expand,” she said. “We are honored that our clients and business partners trust in our ability to protect their families.” Located in historic downtown Gilbert, Cholewka Law represents clients in all areas of estate planning, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, probate, trust administration, asset protection and bankruptcy. For more information, call (480) 497-3770 or visit www. gilbertlawoffice.com.
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October 2015
October 2015
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Help us fill in the map! W
e need your help in completing our new
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Business
October 2015
The healthy side of beauty A local beauty expert talks about her allnatural makeup line BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON
When you think about pioneers in the beauty industry you picture them living in places like Los Angeles or New York City. Annie Mayo, president and CEO of Advanced Mineral Makeup and an indemand makeup artist and expert, is proud to call Gilbert home. It’s from here that’s she’s made a name for herself in the beauty world. “I moved to Arizona (from Brooklyn, New York) at 18 in the late 1970s and have always lived in the East Valley,” Mayo said. “In 2010, while working as a TV and film makeup artist, I saw that there was a need for something better out there.” For 30 years, Mayo has worked as an educator for many cosmetic lines and has been a salon owner and a TV and film makeup artist involved with 25 feature films, the Miss Universe Pageant, the World Series and the Super Bowl, according to the
Annie Mayo, founder of Advanced Mineral Makeup, lives in Gilbert. Submitted photo
company. Mayo was also a successful sales representative, selling makeup and skincare products to high-end spas, salons and doctors. “I always believed in the products I sold over the years or I would not have represented them, however, I always felt there was room for improvement in women’s makeup,” she said. These realizations led her to create her own all-natural line of makeup. According to Mayo, Advanced Mineral Makeup, contains no parabens, fragrances, talc, fillers or preservatives. “I want people to read the ingredients contained in their makeup. I know how important it is to use natural and organic
components, which is why I include them in all my products,” she said. The Advanced Mineral Makeup line consists of foundation (loose powder and liquid), pressed mineral powder, eye pencils, concealers, lip gloss, lip pencils, lipsticks and more. Customers can find their shade with an easy-to-use celebrity comparison guide. The company also just added two new products to the existing collection— mascara and new color “Candice” lip gloss. Since the makeup line’s inception, the products have been used on the set of top TV shows like “NCIS” and “Grey’s Anatomy” and are available in more than 100 spas, salons and cosmetic surgeon’s offices in the United States and Canada. “Our liquid foundation is our biggest seller right now and I’m most proud of the color undertones available in the makeup,” Mayo said. “This fall we have a new lip-gloss color and will have lipstick soon. Customers can easily pick what works best for them through our celebrity shade finder on our website.” In addition to her business efforts, Mayo is heavily involved in using her cosmetics line to give back to worthwhile beautybased charities. She works nationally with Oncology Esthetics, teaching spa owners and makeup artists how to treat challenged skin that has been through chemotherapy or other medical interventions. “For health-challenged skin, Advanced
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Mineral Makeup is the recommended product of practice,” she said. She has also donated makeup products to organizations that support abused women and classes that teach them how to apply makeup to help them with a fresh start. In the future, Mayo said that she plans to continue to develop her line, expand her nonprofit reach, and maintain a presence at industry trade shows. “It (Advanced Mineral Makeup) is an easy-to-carry line and consumers can easily pick the right colors,” Mayo said. “In my personal life, I’m also married with one son, who I’m hoping will take over the business someday, but he’s hesitant to go into the beauty industry,” she added with a laugh. To learn more about Advanced Mineral Makeup, visit www.advancedmineralmakeup.com.
Annie Mayo, founder of Advanced Mineral Makeup, said her company is the recommended product of practice for health-challenged skin. Submitted photo
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Business
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October 2015
Ace Vending purchases industrial building
Senior ride-sharing program, Envoy, expands in East Valley
Ace Vending has purchased an industrial building at 335 S. Hamilton Ct., Gilbert, for $3.6 million, according to Cushman & Wakefield, a commercial real estate firm. Andy Markham, SIOR, Mike Haenel, Will Strong and Phil Haenel of Cushman & Wakefield represented Ace Vending in the acquisition. Steve Larsen of Jones Lang LaSalle represented the seller, Arizonabased Bell Holdings BB LLC. Ace Vending is an Arizona-based, full-line vending service operator. The company provides fullservice coffee, fresh food, snacks and beverage vending throughout the United States. “Ace Vending required a building that would accommodate its expansion and
Envoy America, an innovative ride service for seniors, is expanding its coverage area to include the East Valley. Envoy America is an enhanced rideshare program offering an alternative to taxi and rideshare services for seniors and others who cannot drive. Instead of the standard curbside service of other transportation companies, Envoy America offers a doorto-door service where drivers are companions for their clients and remain with them until they are back home. For example, if a client is having cataract surgery, the driver would take his or her client to the eye surgery appointment, stay at the doctor’s office until the client is finished, drive them home and bring them back the next day for the follow-up visit. The company, which began operating in May, serves clients in Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Paradise Valley and North Phoenix. The East Valley, including Tempe, Mesa, Chandler and Gilbert, marks Envoy America’s first service area expansion. Clients can call Envoy America at (602) 687-6345 to schedule service or check on availability in their area. “We designed Envoy America to assist seniors who cannot drive or are uncomfort-
growing lines of business,” Markham said. “This particular facility provided modern distribution features and room for future expansion, as well as desirable outside storage capacity.” The 41,490-square-foot building will be fully occupied by Ace Vending. The company will take occupancy of the property in stages during the fourth quarter of 2015. The successful merger of Cushman & Wakefield and DTZ closed Sept. 1. The firm operates under the Cushman & Wakefield brand and has a new visual identity and logo. The new Cushman & Wakefield is led by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brett White and Global President Tod Lickerman. The company is majority owned by an investor group led by TPG, PAG and OTPP.
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able with driving to retain their independence and conduct their daily chores such as physician visits and shopping,” said K.C. Kanaan, cofounder of Envoy America. “As word spread, we immediately heard from prospective clients in the East Valley asking when we would start serving the area. “We are pleased to say we listened and we will begin offering service in October.” Cofounder Andy Beran added that Envoy America is looking at opening new coverage zones in the Valley. Eventually, the company plans on expanding the company nationwide to cities with similar senior bases. Envoy America (www.envoyamerica. com) is a subscription-based service. Each subscription includes a guaranteed number of pre-paid hours each month to meet every day travel needs such as errands, medical appointments and social outings. Clients can call Envoy America at (602) 687-6345 to schedule their appointment and many will request specific drivers. Drivers are carefully chosen, background checked, drug tested and trained to provide the highest levels of customer service. No cash is required and drivers are not allowed to accept tips.
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Business
October 2015
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Chamber hosts series of events through October Throughout the year, the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce offers a variety of luncheons and meetings for its members and the community. Events are held throughout the town. The chamber office is at 119 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101. For more information about events or to register, call (480) 892-0056 or visit www.gilbertaz.com. Group Travel Informational Meeting: Imperial Cities Presented by Collette Vacations 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 1 Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, 119 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101, Gilbert Join the Chamber for an informational meeting to learn more about this all-inclusive travel opportunity. A representative of Collette Vacations will review the travel
itinerary and answer general questions regarding the Imperial Cities expedition. No travel commitment is necessary to attend this meeting. Chamber Chat-Morning Presented by Aire Serv Heating & Air Conditioning 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7 Darling Donuts, 1515 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite D-105, Gilbert Meet up with other Chamber members for breakfast. This informal gathering is a fun way to share conversation with other professionals and learn more about businesses in the community. No agenda, no script—just good food, great company and friendly conversation. No charge; attendees responsible for the purchase of food, beverage, tax and gratuity.
Doing business Kids Learn Coding LLC
Owner: Ritu Grover How long in business: Since January Specialty: Afterschool lessons in computer programming for kids. Unique features: Kids are introduced to computer programming fundamentals. As a next step, they may choose one of two tracks to learn programming languages such as C, Java, HTML, CSS, PHP, Javascript, jQuery etc. Using what they learn, kids may design websites and even create mobile apps. Besides these technology skills, KLC instructors encourage analytical thinking, innovation and experimentation. Teamwork and collaboration are also at the heart of KLC interaction as kids learn programming in teams. Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Address: 1166 E Warner Rd., Gilbert Phone: (602) 904-5479 Website: www.kidslearncoding.com
Dynamic Rehab
Owner: Annette Monaccio, OTR/L, CHT How long in business: 15 years Specialty: Dynamic Rehab offers a personal approach to your rehab needs. At the outpatient rehab clinic, patients will find highly qualified certified hand therapists and physical therapists. The clinic has special programs focused on women with pelvic floor conditions; vestibular rehab for patients suffering from vertigo; and a firefighters/ workman’s comp return to work program. Address: 2940 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Suite 425, Gilbert Phone: (480) 813-7900 Website: www.dynamicrehabaz.com
Send in your business profile for ‘Doing business’ The Gilbert Sun News would like to welcome new area businesses or existing ones that may be new to our readers. Submit information about your business for a “Doing Business” mini-business profile in an upcoming issue of our publication, which is distributed to 25,000 homes, racks and boxes the fifth of each month. Please include all of the following items: Name of business, name of owner(s), how long the business has existed, unique features, hours of operation, address, telephone number, website and email address. Also include an at least 300 dpi photo of the business owner or logo. Email this information to info@gilbertsunnews.com or visit www. gilbertsunnews.com and click on the “Doing Business” form at the top of the page to submit.
Good Government Roundtable with Higley Unified School District Presented by SRP 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20 Location to be announced An event of SRP’s Good Government series, this roundtable meeting will bring Governing Board members and leaders of Higley Unified School District together with the business community for discussion on the latest local, regional and national issues in education. Join the group for this meet-and-greet event, ask questions and provide feedback that will contribute to a vibrant business community. Member admission is $20; nonmember admission is $35 2015 East Valley Business Expo 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21 St. Xavier University, 92 W. Vaughn Ave., Gilbert Register to attend the largest networking and business-to-business event of the year. The East Valley Business Expo was attended last year by more than 1,500 people and more than 100 exhibitors were on site to showcase their businesses. Gift cards, door prizes, raffles, and giveaways always draw a huge turnout and keep the energy
dynamic. The expo is a joint production of the Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa and Tempe Chambers of Commerce. Free to attend with a business card. 2015 Business and Education Summit Presented by Partners in Progress 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 29 St. Xavier University, 92 W. Vaughn Ave., Gilbert Join the group for a morning of strategic collaboration as the Chamber brings together the business and education communities for a conversation and interactive exercise on a strong and prepared workforce. Gilbert’s Office of Economic Development will present on workforce trends and employment projects. Panelists representing business and education will share their insights and experiences of strong business/education partnerships. Attendees will be asked to weigh in on their thoughts of recent statistics. Free to attend; Chamber members and invitation only.
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Mesquite student acts on dream in ‘Princess and the Pea’ BY JULIA DE SIMONE
Brittany Fleming is a quadruple threat. The Gilbert resident can sing, dance, tickle the ivories and, most importantly, act. Fleming will portray “Titiana,” a great witch, in an original adaptation of “The Princess and the Pea” at the East Valley Children’s Theatre (EVCT) in Mesa. The play runs through Sunday, Oct. 11, at the Mesa Arts Center, One E. Main St. “It’s a very funny take on the original,” Flemming said. “It has a fun little spin to it. There’s a lot more depth I want to say. It goes into more value than just sensitivity.” The Mesquite High School senior added that she also feels a bond between her and Titiana, the supporting character she portrays. “I would describe Titiana as a very ambitious, purposeful woman who has made some mistakes. She just feels the need to be loved, and we all have the desire to be loved so her struggles were enticing.” Although the 17-year-old has only been performing for a couple of years, Flemming caught the “acting bug” early on in her young life.
HUNTERS
•
“I was 7 or 8 years old. I went to go see ‘Rush Hour’ and when the credits were running, they were showing take after take of the actors messing up. I just saw that they could be completely different people,” she said. “You get to experience a whole, different world when acting. It was a defining moment.” Another pivotal moment in Brittany’s young life was joining the award-winning EVCT. She has already acted in two other plays at the theater. “The things I do here are so unique; it’s different. It’s not the same thing you’ve seen 1,000 times. They’re so professional; it’s high quality shows,” she said. “The draw with this theater is that it’s welcoming to new people. They treat you like family. They are so good with kids. There’s no judgment. It’s a very nice place to just be yourself, and I haven’t experienced that with other theaters in the Valley.” But it’s not without hard work and sacrifices. In addition to attending high school, Fleming and her castmates devote approximately 16 hours weekly practicing lines to upcoming plays. She said her photographic memory helps when memorizing lines, but it’s still a juggling act.
JUMPERS
•
“The Princess and the Pea” stars Tyler Briggs of Mesa as “Xander”; Rachel Primrose of Mesa as “Olivia”; and Brittany Fleming of Gilbert as “Titiana.” Photo courtesy of Penrod Photography
“It’s hard. It’s really hard. There are things you have to give up,” she stated. However, she refuses to give up on her dream of becoming a professional actress in the near future. She plans to attend community college and then transfer to a university in the California or New York area to master her acting skills. “If you want to get to that point, you have to be able to try. If it’s something you love to do, you should do it no matter what anyone said. Even though it
might hot happen, there’s still that silver lining that it could happen,” she said. “The Princess and the Pea” runs through Sunday, Oct. 11, at Mesa Arts Center, One E. Main St., Mesa. Tickets are $15; $11 for students 17 and younger; free admission for lap children 2 and younger. For more information, call (480) 756-3828 or visit www.mesaartscenter.com.
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Bahama Buck’s party serves as fundraiser for ill teen BY MANDY LOADER
Bahama Buck’s in Chandler is hosting a fundraiser in conjunction with its one-year anniversary celebration from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3. The event will be open to the public and will raise funds to support 18-year-old Gilbert resident Payte Brown in his battle with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). “We personally know a family in need,” said Colleen Bennett, who co-owns the store with her husband, Allan. “So when we decided to do a fundraiser, we knew that this was the right cause.” The Bennetts met Payte and his family through their daughter, who played soccer with Payte’s younger sister. The families grew close over the years. Since Payte was diagnosed with ALL in July, finding ways to contribute to Payte’s cause has become a primary goal for the Bahama Buck’s owners. Payte was admitted to the hospital recently and will spend a few weeks undergoing a stretch of intense chemotherapy treatments. Furthermore, he will need a bone marrow transplant as well, and is waiting for a match. “There are a lot of people, kids and adults alike, who need a bone marrow transplant,” Colleen said. “Unfortunately, there aren’t as
many donors.” The company’s goal is to raise $1,500 through donations to help Payte and his family with the high cost of his treatments. Overall, the Brown family is making efforts to raise $15,000 through Payte’s GoFundMe profile, a personal fundraising website. Payte and his parents also keep his friends and family informed about his journey on a special Facebook page, “P8 Owns All.” The Bahama Buck’s in Chandler will be holding wristband and T-shirt sales, and will distribute buy-one, get-one free coupons. In addition, on the day of the anniversary event, the store will donate 20 percent of each customer’s check as well as tip jar funds to Payte. The event will feature a variety of activities for the whole family, including a snowball-throwing contest, face painting, balloon artists, and a sample table. Payte was diagnosed with ALL in 2010 at 12 years old. He spent three and a half years in treatment and remission. Throughout that time, he stayed optimistic and determined to beat cancer. Payte remained actively involved in his favorite activities, which included showcasing his livestock animals at local fairs and participating in 4-H and Future Farmers of
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Payte is in his second battle against acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). Submitted photo
America clubs. Recently, Payte graduated from Basha High School in Chandler. He looked forward to attending University of Wyoming to study agriculture in fall 2015. Earlier this summer, one week before his planned move to Wyoming, Payte once again tested positive for ALL. He remains determined to beat cancer a second time.
For more information about the Chandler Bahama Buck’s anniversary event and fundraiser for Payte Brown, call (480) 219-5899 or visit its Facebook page at www.facebook. com/BBAZ1114. To read more details about Payte’s story, or to donate to his cause, visit his GoFundMe profile at www.gofundme. com/6p2amdzc8. The store is located at 4040 S. Arizona Ave., Suite 23, Chandler.
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October 2015
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Special visitor Primrose hosting family-friendly Trunk or Treat Primrose School of South Gilbert is hosting Trunk or Treat on Friday, Oct. 30, and its mission is twofold. This serves as a family-friendly event and also gives the public the opportunity to tour the school during the festivities. Trunk or Treat allows children a safe place to trick or treat before Halloween and will include activities such as a haunted bus, face painting, fall crafts, snacks and more. The event is from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Oct. 30 at the school, 3293 E. Williams Field Rd. Gilbert. Call (480) 633-5635 to RSVP. For more information about the school, visit www. primrosesouthgilbert.com.
Students and staff at Legacy Traditional School—Gilbert welcomed a special guest during a recent flag ceremony. State Rep. Warren Petersen visited the campus and spoke to the students about the importance of voting and the Constitution. Petersen is a third generation Gilbert resident who has been married to his wife, Michelle, for 15 years. He works as the vice president of sales for VIP Homes and has owned a real estate brokerage for more than a decade. Legacy Traditional School—Gilbert is located at 2747 S. Recker Rd., Gilbert. For more information, call (480) 397-9260. Submitted photo
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HIGLEY HAPPENINGS
Students in Danielle Edwards’ class at Chaparral Elementary School in the Higley School Unified District created a structure from toothpicks and gumdrops that can hold a book. It was part of a lesson on engineering design during sixth-grade science. Photo by Danielle Edwards
Chaparral teachers bring STEAM into lessons Danielle Edwards’ sixth-grade classes at Chaparral Elementary School in the Higley Unified School District are learning how more about science, technology, engineering, arts and math—STEAM— challenges she is introducing this year. During a recent lesson, students tried to build a structure out of gumdrops and toothpicks strong enough to hold a textbook for 1 minute. Many students
thought the challenge would be easy. “What they found, however, was completely different,” Edwards said. One student said, “I thought it was going to be pretty easy, but what my group found is that the prototype starts to hold the book, but then it slowly collapses to the side...It’s actually really hard, but it’s fun.” So far, students have put engineering techniques to the test in three building projects. Most recently, they learned about fingerprinting. The latter project involved looking at fingerprints from a “crime scene” to try to discover the criminal. Then students enlarged their own fingerprints and created an art piece using phrases and words they associate with themselves. Students are learning about math and science while discovering paths for their futures, Edwards said. “We went over the different types of engineering jobs available. It engages them in potential career fields,” Edwards said. “They didn’t realize that there were people whose job is to make structures earthquake proof. It was neat to see that spark of, ‘Here is this career I didn’t know existed and hey, it’s actually fun.’”
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Edwards is learning alongside the students. “That first project was eye-opening to me. The kids who are identified as struggling found success in the project. The excitement has been my favorite, watching students open up and ask others, ‘How did you do that?’” she said. Power Ranch Elementary School earns Go! Grant Power Ranch Elementary School teachers aim to make students more active through a Go! Grant awarded this past summer. Teacher Marissa Ames plans to use the $2,800 grant to operate the school’s Running Club. When students return from fall break in mid-October, the club starts its new season. There are 70 students in kindergarten through sixth-grade participating. “This grant will allow kids of all grade levels at our school to participate in a collaborative afterschool program,” said Ames. “Students in grades kindergarten through sixth will learn how to incorporate health and fitness into their daily lives and participate in some
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STUDENT CHRONICLES
October 2015
TUESDAYS: KIDS EAT FREE! YOUR HEADQUARTERS FOR NFL & COLLEGE FOOTBALL
Know a student who’s doing something remarkable? Send items for student chronicles to christina@timespublications.com. Tyler Lynch has been named to the Greyhound football roster at Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, New Mexico. ENMU is a NCAA Division II institution, affiliated with the Lone Star Conference. Founded in 1934, Eastern New Mexico University is a state institution offering 91 associate, bachelor and master degree options. Combining a traditional learning environment with 21st century technology, ENMU provides a rich educational experience for students from around the world. Courses are offered on-campus and online. Mark Rey has been named to the Greyhound men’s soccer roster at Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, New Mexico. Founded in 1934, Eastern New Mexico University is a state institution offering 91 associate, bachelor and master degree options. Combining a traditional learning environment with 21st
century technology, ENMU provides a rich educational experience for students from around the world. Courses are offered on-campus and online. Kurt Fernandez has been named to the dean’s list for the summer term at Upper Iowa University’s Mesa Center. He is a business administration major. To be honored, the undergraduate must have earned a minimum 3.50 GPA for the semester and be enrolled as a full-time student. Katie Repko has been recognized among more than 240 students from Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Georgia, who made the summer 2015 dean’s list. Students who achieve a semester grade point average of 3.50 or higher on nine or more semester hours with an institutional grade point average of 3.00 or higher are recognized by being placed on the dean’s list.
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HAPPENINGS from page 34
not motivated to run at all. As time went by, I got the hang of it and started to run faster and faster and wanted to do more laps around our school. I actually got my stamina up and I know am ready for more running club this year,” said Jason Camaj, a fourth-grade student. Students are preparing to run in a Tempe event—Battle of the Barriers—in November. The PHIT America Go! Grant was awarded by Kids in the Game, Sports & Fitness Industry Association and 20 national corporate sponsors. Of nearly 360 applications, 156 grants were awarded to schools in 22 states. Power Ranch was the only Arizona school to receive the funding. Centennial teacher takes training into classroom With science notebooks in hand and a bucket of items on tables, Centennial Elementary School fifth graders in teacher Terri Schilling’s class are ready to learn. Today’s lesson may include rice and beans or cubes and sand to test volume. The lessons are ones Schilling gathered this summer while attending the Mickelson ExxonMobile Teachers
Academy, run by the National Science Teachers Association. The association created the academy with Phil and Amy Mickelson (of PGA fame) to foster more engagement in education with hopes to produce more engineers, scientists and mathematicians in the future. Schilling and her fellow teachers walked away with dozens of lessons in data, statistics, measurement, force and motion to bring to their thirdto fifth-grade classrooms. She attended the weeklong academy in New Jersey in July. “They kept us there daily until 4. We also had homework every night. That first night I was up until 1 a.m. I was never tired or bored. They had us as if we were students in a class. We saw that if students are not engaged, you lose them. I’ve already done several inquiry-based probes in my class this year. It opened my eyes,” Schilling said. Each day, teachers rotated in groups through lessons with master teachers and director of the academy. Not only do students learn science and math, but they discover skills needed for collaboration and critical thinking. Before any lessons began, she helped students create science notebooks to track their “claims,” “evidence” and
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“reasoning” through narratives and graphs. “They’ve really impressed me. To see students who are quiet or shy, they were really getting into it. They’re learning about quantitative and qualitative,” she said. “It’s something fun for them to look forward to.” Schilling not only walked away with dozens of science experiments, but with resource books and methods to improve her math lessons. “It was the best experience ever. I now want to do all this new stuff. I can’t wait,” she said.
Higley Unified School District earns financial recognition The Higley Unified School District was recently awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). The award was given for the comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR) completed June 30. It is the highest recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting.
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Youth
October 2015
Kid-friendly Halloween events for all ages BY LEAH GOLDBERG
Boo! It’s October, which means the spookiest holiday of all is just around the corner, and it’s not just about trickor-treating. Halloween brings all sorts of kid-friendly events to the East Valley each year, and this year is no exception. Families seeking Halloween fun are welcome to spend their October doing everything from competing in costume contests to bowling with pumpkins. Treat Main Street Friday, Oct. 30 The Downtown Mesa Association and participating businesses for Trick or Treat Main Street are hosting the 4th annual open trick-or-treating event. Along Main Street, children and their families can collect candy from the participating businesses while engaging in other Halloween activities throughout the afternoon. Downtown Mesa, (480) 8902613, www.downtownmesa.com Halloween Spooktacular Friday, Oct. 30 The city of Chandler is hosting their popular event with an evening full of games, costume contests, trunk-ortreating, face painting, food and of course,
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a haunted house. Ghosts, superheroes or Disney princesses all are welcome at the Chandler Halloween Spooktacular. Downtown Library Plaza, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler (480)782-2727, www.chandler.az/gov Pumpkin Patch Throughout October At this fall festival there will plenty of room for children to run around and participate in pumpkin decorating, jump in an air bounce, navigate Alexander’s Adventure Maze and ride on the hayride. Mother Nature’s Farm, 1663 E. Baseline Rd., Gilbert, (480) 892-5874, www. mothernaturesfarm.com Schnepf Farms Pumpkin and Chili Party Throughout October This Halloween event is four weeks of fun you can’t miss. The admission includes hayrides, roller coasters, a petting zoo, marshmallow roasting, a 4-acre maze, a BMX extreme sports show and so much more. There is fun for every age. Discounted tickets are also available at all Fry’s food stores for $15. Schnepf Farms, 24810 S. Rittenhouse Rd., Queen Creek, (480) 987-3100, www.schnepffarms.com
Children can participate in pumpkin decorating and navigate a maze at Mother Nature’s Farm, 1663 E. Baseline Rd. Submitted photo
Visit Schnepf’s Farm, 24810 S. Rittenhouse Rd., in Queen Creek for a Pumpkin and Chili Party with hayrides, roller coasters, a petting zoo, maze and marshmallow roasting throughout the month of October. Submitted photo
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Spirituality
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October 2015
Delight in God with ‘DIG’ A new community learning and enrichment opportunity with something for everyone is coming to the Southeast Regional Library, 775 N. Greenfield Rd. Come to Living Water United Methodist on Thursdays at the library from 5:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. Oct. 8 to Nov. 19 for a family meal during The DIG—Delight in God. Then stay from 6:15 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. for family-style Bible study, followed by a short worship service. Kids are an important part of the family but they learn in a much more interactive way with time for silliness and fun. That’s why they’re invited to join in for enrichment activities including a storytime and crafts. The church recognizes that tween and teens have heavy school demands, so it has planned a homework help center for anyone who pre-registers. They’ll also be able to choose between the Bible study and fellowship in the teen center or attend the adult Bible study with their parents. The adult Bible study will begin with “Money Matters: Financial Freedom for all God’s Children.” Imagine feeling free
A Time to Act BY DR. MARC DRAKE, SENIOR PASTOR, FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF SUN LAKES
The story is told of a farmer whose old shed was struck by lightning. He wasn’t too concerned and, in fact, said it relieved him of having to tear it down. Then the rain washed off his car and saved him from that chore as well. When asked what he was doing now, he replied, “Waiting for an earthquake to shake the potatoes out of the ground.” Well, there is a time to wait. But there’s also a time to act! If you are waiting for a perfect or ideal situation, you will miss some great opportunities like the young man who vowed never to marry until he found the ideal woman. Unfortunately, when he found her she was waiting for the ideal man! A failure to act can be illustrated with the little story of three turtles who went on a Sunday afternoon picnic. One carried the basket of food, one carried a jug of Turtleade, and the third turtle carried nothing. They set up for the picnic, but then felt raindrops. The two turtles that carried the food agreed that the one who carried nothing should go back and get the
be our guest this Sunday! from debt in control of your finances. Together participants will find out how to do God’s math based on spiritual principles found in Scripture. According to the 2014 Barna Group’s tracking data, a large percentage of people find their spiritual needs are not fulfilled at church. Teens as well as adults want to find fulfillment and meaning. They want to learn about God in a nontraditional church setting where doubts have a place and questions can be answered. To register, visit www.livingwaterum. org/register-for-the-dig.
Desert Gateway Baptist Church 2175 S. Gilbert Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85295 480.857.0455 visit mydgbc.org Sundays 10am & 6pm Wednesdays 7pm
Spiritual Reflections umbrella. But he didn’t want to do that for fear that they would eat all the turtle food and drink all the Turtleade while he was gone. Finally, however, they prevailed upon him to go back and get the umbrella. Well, several hours went by with no sign of him. Then days went by...then two weeks...No sign. One of the turtles said, “Well, I guess we can eat the turtle food and drink the Turtleade because he’s not coming back.” At that point they heard a voice over in the bushes say, “If you do, I won’t go.” I’m afraid that too many times we are like that turtle. We don’t want to miss the picnic, so we take no risks and refuse to move forward. For those who know Jesus, there is certainly a time to wait on the Lord (see Isaiah 40:31) but there also comes a time to move forward with courage and faith, pursuing the direction God has made clear. In the Bible we see people who, at God’s command, did things that completely defied human logic: Noah built a ship on dry land, Abraham was willing to offer up his only son, Moses gave up the treasures of Egypt to identify with God’s people, and Joshua besieged Jericho for seven days—depending on God alone to give the victory. Furthermore, there are countless others (in the Bible and down
through history) who trusted in the Lord with all their heart and immediately moved forward at His direction. Are there areas in life where God is asking you to do that? We don’t have to be afraid we’ll miss the picnic by moving forward! We only miss it when we hold back and “play it safe.”
Share your spiritual reflections The spiritual leaders of Gilbert-area churches, temples, mosques and other religious and spiritual gathering places are invited to contribute their Spiritual Reflections in essay format by sending their thoughts, enlightening insights and other writings of a spiritual nature to news@gilbertsunnews.com. Be certain to put “Spiritual Reflections submission” in the subject line. Include your first and last name, title and facility name, address, phone number and website. Spiritual Reflections are printed on a space-available basis, and submission does not guarantee print. The opinions represented in this column are those of the author and not that of the Gilbert Sun News.
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October 2015
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Spiritual Reflections Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation lists upcoming events The Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation is an established reform congregation that meets at the Sun Lakes Chapel on the second Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m. Services are an opportunity to meet new people, connect with Judaism and learn. New attendees are invited to be introduced at the service and members of the congregation connect with the attendees. Oneg Shabbats are held immediately after the services at Sun Lakes Country Club. Everyone is invited to attend. The services and Oneg’s are a great place to meet members, ask questions and learn
more about the congregation. The Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation is hosting a meet and greet to introduce individuals to its organization from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 18. The social gathering will include a welcome by the president; Rabbi Irwin Wiener and Cantor Rhonda Polesky; meeting board members and committee chairs and learning about their roles; introduction to Sisterhood and Men’s Club; donation and social action; discovering the online Shpiel; listening to the renowned choir; Passover
Sisterhood events resume Sun Lakes Sisterhood has resumed its meetings, the first of which will be held Thursday, Oct. 15. Gwen Tierney, a docent from the Phoenix Art Museum, will be presenting a program, with slides, on the fashions of “Downton Abbey” and the changing world of fashion. Her talk highlights the glamorous fashions adorning the aristocratic Crawley family and the functional clothes worn by their staff. Tierney joined the docent program at the museum in 1999 and has been an active participant since. Her recent focus has been on the Fashion Design Gallery. The New Member Luncheon will be held on the same day. The meeting will be at the Chapel Center, starting at 1 p.m. Call Anita at (480) 895-8203 or Norma at (631) 889-2048 for those who would like to be included. The board would like to take the
opportunity to thank some of the members of the business community who graciously and generously contributed goods and/or funds to the Card Party last February. Other businesses include Dr. Edward Tokatlian/Associated Internists of Ahwatukee; MICA Creek-Sagamore Capital Partners, LLC; Millennium Lighting LLC; Rue Bax; Dr. Scott Kriener/Ahwatukee Sports & Spine; Jim McFazden; Border States Industries Inc; Dr. Randall Porter/Neurological Associates LTD; Debi Rizzo/L’mage Salon Studios; Kellis Nails; Alex the Salon; Southwest Jewelry & Coin; Jeffrey S. Garelick, D.D.S./Ocotillo Dental Care P.C. Other upcoming events include the Card Party on Tuesday, Feb. 2, and the Sisterhood Shabbat on Friday, Feb. 12.
Health & Wellness Expo to be held for two days St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Faith Community will hold the fifth Health & Wellness Expo from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11. The event will be held at St. Andrew the Apostle, located at 3450 W. Ray Rd., in Chandler and admission is free. The expo will feature more than 30 booths in many phases of health and wellness. Attendees will enjoy demonstrations, massages, informational handouts, treats, door prizes, and parish nurses will provide free blood pressure
screenings. Flu shots will be available at the Walgreens booth. More than 3,000 people are anticipated. Booths will include a wide variety of local businesses and nonprofit groups, as well as diagnostics facilities, various doctors, chiropractic entities; massage therapists, insurance representatives, and many other health and wellness businesses. St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Faith Community is a parish of more than 4,700 registered families. For more information, call (480) 899-1990, ext. 136, or visit www. standrewchandler.com.
Seder; adult Bar and Bat Mitzvah, adult education and Hebrew classes; formation of new social groups and Chavarahs; trip to Israel and affordable dues. For those who wish to attend should email Doris Codkind at Randor55@gmail.com or call (480) 883-1378 or Jeff Spear at Jeff. Spear46@gmail.com or call (480) 556-1284. The Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation invites everyone to come to the Friday, Oct. 9, Shabbat service at 7:30 p.m. where new members will be honored. In honor of the holiday of Sukkot yizkor will be recited.
Rabbi Irwin Wiener. Submitted photo
Fun for the whole Family! Carnival Games • Prizes • Bounce Houses Balloon Art • Face Paint • Fun Photo Booth
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A Course in Miracles: Wednesday, 1 - 2:30 pm Oct 25, Interfaith Forum Q & A on Sikhism with Guru Kim Kar Khalsa, 1 - 2:15 pm Nov 1, Jazz with Spirit, Charles Lewis Trio and Jackie Garner 3 - 5:00 pm Rev. Julianne Lewis, Pastor 952 E. Baseline, #102, Mesa, AZ 85204 ~ Ph. 480-593-8798 Please visit www.interfaith-community.org/ for more information/events
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Spirituality
October 2015
Worship guide There is a place of worship for a variety of religions in Gilbert. Here is a partial list of some of the congregations in the town. Want to be added to this list? Email christina@gilbertsunnews.com. The Bridge Church 860 E. Warner Rd., Suites 101 & 103 Gilbert 85296 480-294-7888 www.bridgechurchaz.org Services: 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sundays We exist to show the world who Jesus is, and we believe that when people get to know Jesus as He really is, their lives will change forever. Therefore, it is our passion to help people know Jesus throughout Gilbert, Metro Phoenix and the world. Central Christian Church—Gilbert 965 E. Germann Rd., Gilbert 85297 www.centralaz.com Services: 5:30 p.m. Saturdays; and 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Sundays While the Bible itself is the church’s official document of faith, the website lists a variety of statements that fundamentally define the church. Please visit the website for more information. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints 3301 S. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert 85297 (480) 822-5000 www.lds.org/church/temples/gilbertarizona?lang=eng For more information about the church, visit the website above. First United Methodist Church of Gilbert 331 S. Cooper Rd., Gilbert 85233 (480) 892-9166 www.gilbertumc.org Services: 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. (traditional services) and 11 a.m. (contemporary service) Sundays There are two traditional services—8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.—with the Chancel choir and traditional worship. The 11 a.m. service has a contemporary feel, with music from the Praise Band. The 9:30 a.m. service generally has the largest attendance.
Mission Community Church 4450 E. Elliot Rd., Gilbert 85234 (480) 545-4024 www.mission68.org Services: 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturdays; and 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 11:59 a.m. Sundays The Bible is God’s word to all people. It was written by human authors under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. Because it is inspired by God, it is truth and without error in the original manuscripts. Real Life Church Church services at the Higley Center for the Performing Arts 4132 E. Pecos Rd., Gilbert 85295 (480) 444-0231 or www.reallife.cc The church believes in one God consisting of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. God is the creator of all things, including man. Redemption Gilbert 1820 W. Elliot Rd, Gilbert 85233 (480) 632-2220 www.gilbert.redemptionaz.com/ about/a-brief-overview/ Services: 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sundays Gospel means good news, but it is truly the most profound and glorious truth ever revealed. It is not advice, nor is it a system or philosophy to add to the congregants’ lives. It is an exclusive truth claim, a holistic worldview, the true story of the whole world, which by its very nature must redefine and recolor everything else. Resurrection Episcopal Church Meets at Gilbert Community Center, 130 N. Oak St., Gilbert 85233 (480) 719-5343 www.resurrectiongilbert.org Services: Call for information The world sends the message that we must hold right beliefs and exhibit right behaviors before we can rightly belong. To God, that idea is backward. We always belong to God, and in Christ nothing can separate us from his love and acceptance. Growth in Godly ways of being and doing is cultivated when we acknowledge that
we are already known and loved by God. All people are welcome at the church, and congregation officials don’t just say it, they live it. St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church 2654 E. Williams Field Rd., Gilbert 85295 (480) 279-6737 www.smarymag.org A Roman Catholic parish that witnesses the love of Jesus Christ through evangelization, Catechesis and celebration of the Sacraments. San Tan Bible Church 1424 S. Promenade Lane, Gilbert 85296 Phone number not available. www.santanbible.org Services: 8:30 a.m. (Bible hour); 9:30 a.m. (Café 2:42) and 10 a.m. worship service Sundays The church believes the glory of God is the chief end of all we do. Sun Valley Community Church 456 E. Ray Rd., Gilbert 85296 (480) 632-8920, www.sunvalleycc.com Services: 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Saturdays; and 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 11:59 a.m. Sundays The atmosphere is casual and friendly at Sun Valley Community Church. It places high value on authentic Christian
living and placing Christ at the center of all our teachings. The church also offers worship music that is current and uplifting, along with focused weekend sermons that break down the Bible in a way that makes it easy to connect the word of God with today’s busy life. Two Rivers Church 326 E. Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert 85234 (480) 892-2435, www.2riverschurch.org Services: 6 p.m. Saturdays; and 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. (Spanish) Sundays Two Rivers Church exists to help lead congregants into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ by encouraging and equipping them to love God intimately and serve others. It has a casual environment with a serious faith. Valor Christian Center 3015 E. Warner Rd., Gilbert 85296 (480) 545-4321, www.ValorCC.com Services: 10 a.m. Sundays and 7 p.m. Thursdays Valor Christian Center is a spirit-filled church that believes God’s word is relevant for today. Its mission is to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world and to see lives transformed by His power. Join the congregation for its Healing Service the last Sunday of each month.
No perfect people allowed
Whoever you are, and wherever you are on your spiritual journey... ...you are welcome at the Bridge JOIN US FOR OUR NEW FALL SERMON SERIES!
Meeting Sundays at 9:00 and 10:30 am 860 E. Warner Road (Northeast Corner of Warner & Lindsay beside Goodwill) Pastor Kent Bertrand 480.294.7888 www.bridgechurchaz.org
S. Lindsay Rd.
Gilbert Presbyterian Church 235 E. Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert 85234 (480) 892-6753 www.azgpc.org Services: 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sundays Gilbert Presbyterian Church is called to be a Christ-centered covenant family nurtured by the Holy Spirit to worship God and to share God’s love with everyone.
Living Water United Methodist Fellowship Highland Park Elementary School 230 N Cole. Dr., Gilbert 85234 www.livingwaterum.org Services: 10 a.m. Sundays Living Water exists to bring people in to meet Christ, build people up to follow Christ and send people out to share Christ.
E. Warner Rd.
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Arts
October 2015
Higley Center is town’s best-kept secret BY JULIA DE SIMONE
One of the best-kept gems in the Valley is located in the town’s own backyard. The Higley Center for the Performing Arts (HCPA) is both a concert and performance center, serving patrons of all ages. The HPCA, which marks its 10th anniversary next year, seats 186 people in the “Little Theatre” and 1,235 people in the concert hall. “A lot of people in Gilbert say they don’t have a performance art center because they haven’t discovered us,” said Bob Zucker, HCPA manager. “Yet, once they discover it is right down the street, they realize we’re a professional arts center with professional performances. The Higley Center for Performing Arts might have the word ‘Higley,’ but we are here for the entire community of Gilbert. We want to serve the entire town.” Mary-Jo Okawa, founder and artistic producing director of Copperstar Repertory Company in Chandler, recently presented “Les Miserables” at the center. Founded in Gilbert, Copperstar was a resident theater company and partner of HCPA for five seasons. “This is a beautiful facility with a wonderful staff and personnel,” Okawa said. “There’s truly not a bad seat in the house. It feels intimate in the way they designed it. People need to make the venture out there.” Okawa added that it’s especially true for children, who may not getting the arts in school due to budgetary cuts. “The arts are a great way to round up children’s education,” Okawa said. “It really would be a benefit to families with young children and adults to experience.” Zucker said another appeal of the center is the cost. “I think you’ll find tickets priced very reasonably,” he said. “We’ve been very sensitive to that need to serve all different parts of the community.” However, HCPA’s future depends on volunteers, donations and sponsorships. Zucker, who has worked for the center for eight years, said the facility’s rental fees help offset costs, but high-quality performances are expensive. “Gilbert businesses are beginning to wake up to the fact that they need to support us because it makes the town more diversified,” Zucker said. “The future is only as bright as the money I can reserve.” Season ticket holders Jim and Kally Reynolds agree. The Gold Canyon residents are avid supporters of the arts and HCPA. The couple said the center stands out for many reasons, including its sound system, orchestra pit and “amazing array of talent.” “The arts color the fabric of our lives. We need to support our local facilities like the Higley Center,” Jim said. “My dream
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would be that the place would be sold out one day.” Zucker said regardless of the center’s future, he’ll continue advocating excellent customer service. “I’m always available to talk to a patron. I greet people by their first name an hour before the performances. It’s a whole different approach—that’s the feeling you get everywhere here. We want to make it an enjoyable show for them,” he said. “If anyone asks us for anything, the answer is ‘no problem.’” Sneak preview of this season There’s something for everybody at the Higley Center for the Performing Arts. According to HCPA Manager Bob Zucker, the center caters to all ages. “We have a number of shows for active adults, seniors and a number of shows for families and ones designed for grandparents to bring their grandchildren to shows,” he said. A preview of some of the performances lined-up for the 2015-16 season include: Oct. 10: The Magic and Illusions of Eric Giliam The former world teen magic champion provides a 90-minute live show of magic, laughter, fascination and crowd participation. This year he will bring a new twist to the classic “separating a person in half” with the help of his assistant.
Phoenix Children’s Chorus. Submitted photo
Mandy Barnett. Submitted photo
Wyatt Earp. Submitted photo
Oct. 16: The Rave: A Tribute to the British Invasion The British Invasion features songs from The Beatles to The Zombies, faithfully recreated to take patrons back in time. Nov. 4: Mandy Barnett A frequent guest on the Grand Ole Opry, Barnett performs her own music, country and pop classics. Her 2011 “Sweet Dreams” album features renditions of songs previously recorded by Patsy Cline. Nov. 21: Wyatt Earp: A Life on the Frontier Set in the mid-1920s, an elderly Wyatt Earp tells of his adventures during the final days of the American frontier from Arizona to Alaska. Dec. 5: Phoenix Children’s Chorus 2015“When You Believe” The acclaimed 300-member chorus kicks off the season with its annual holiday concert “Noel.” Dec. 18-20: Southwest Youth Ballet Presents “The Nutcracker” The energy of the Southwest Youth Ballet and the music of the Chandler Symphony Orchestra enhance the audience’s experience for a not-to-miss holiday favorite.
The Rave. Submitted photo
In addition to the performances, the HCPA Foundation for Arts, Culture and Education offers “Building Bridges” Feb. 1 and Feb. 2. The seventh annual program provides teachers and students an interactive platform to teach life lessons. Topics range from antiviolence to respect through Grammy award-winner Tom Chapin’s songs. The cost is free to participating classrooms. Season and individual tickets to all per-
formances can be purchased at the box office, by phone or online. The box office is located at the center, 4132 E. Pecos Rd. It is open from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday through Friday, except holidays. Ticket prices and showtimes vary. Discounts available for children, students, seniors and season ticket holders. Concession items are also available for purchase at a nominal fee. For more information, call (480) 279.7194 or www.higleyarts.org.
Arts
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October 2015
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Giliam brings magic and illusions to HCPA BY JULIA DE SIMONE
Eric Giliam’s performances are far from ordinary. Take a classical magic trick, add lighting, sound effects and music a la Ludwig van Beethoven and Michael Jackson and abracadabra, the audience has magic. Literally. “A lot of magicians do the same things as other magicians,” Giliam said. “One thing about my show is that I really like music that enhances. That’s one of the things that really work in my favor. If I’m doing a classic magic act, I add a twist to it with music, lighting and sound effects. I keep it fresh.” Giliam will cast his “fresh twist to magic” with a 90-minute performance Saturday, Oct. 10, at the Higley Center for the Performing Arts. (HCPA). Performance times are 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Costs vary. A former World Teen Magic champion, the 24-year-old has won numerous awards for his performances including the most original and innovative stage act presented to him by Siegfried and Roy in Las Vegas. Giliam has traveled within the Valley and Southwest to as far as Europe where he’s
performed on primetime TV shows. But the Phoenix resident admits he was a fairly shy 12-year-old when his interest in magic was sparked by his idol David Copperfield’s performance in his native state of Alaska. Soon he was devouring magic books, watching YouTube videos of professional magicians and participating in an Alaskan magic club, which helps children discover the fun and self-confidence from performing magic. “I just clicked with it and broke out of my shell. My friends always motivated me to show them a new trick,” he said. Giliam also attended Jeff McBride’s Magic and Mystery School in Las Vegas where master teachers provide practical lessons and hands-on training. “It’s a class that goes deep into the art of magic and perfecting magic as an art,” he said. Eventually, Giliam transformed his talent into a career. In addition to critiquing his acts by filming himself, he adds new acts to the familiar ones. One in particular plays homage to his native state, incorporating a winter scene in his performance.
e r ’ u o Y ! d e t i Inv
Eric Giliam. Submitted photo
“I thought I would bring some Alaska weather to the warm Valley,” Giliam said on HCPA’s website. According to Bob Zucker, HCPA manager, Giliam is an audience favorite, especially for families. “Of all the shows presented this year, his is one that has returned year after year. He does a great job,” Zucker said. This year Giliam and his assistant will feature a new, grand illusion to his act, adding a twist to the classic “separating a
person in half,” but always keeping it “fun.” “Some magic shows can be edgy. I try to keep it to all ages,” he said. “I pretty much relax and have fun. I think the audience can really tell and feed off my energy. It’s really comfortable for me. Magic is an overall good time.” To purchase tickets, contact the box office call center at (480) 840-0457 or at www.higleyarts.org. For more information about the show visit www.MagicEric.com or call (480) 492-8470.
Engaging Curriculum • Empowering Character • Enriching Creativity • Encompassing Community
PreK - 6 th Grades
November 6th, 5:30-8:00 p.m.
ATTRACTIONS INCLUDE: Bounce Houses, Live Raffle, DJ, Cake Walk, Bake Sale, Face Painting, Silent Auction, Photo Booth, Toddler Town, Petting Zoo and Tons of Games and Prizes!
ADMISSION FEES
FOOD
$10 for first child $5 for each additional child Adults and Children ages 3 and under get in FREE!
Grilled Hamburger or Hot Dog meals include potato salad or chips, soda or water
$3.50
(Cash only please)
RAFFLE ITEMS WILL INCLUDE: $200 Apple Store Gift Card Restaurant Gift Cards One-Hour Massage Starbucks Basket Horseback Riding Lessons
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October 2015
Arts
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“Heaven Can Wait” a comic fantasy gem Light-hearted comedy is the theme as “Heaven Can Wait” continues through Nov. 17 at the Hale Centre Theatre. The fun starts when professional boxer, Joe Pendleton, is called to the Pearly Gates 60 years too soon—or so he thinks. Mr. Jordan, the man in charge of preparing the departed for entry into Paradise, ironically agrees. So, quick as a wink, Joe is returned to Earth but in the body of a Mr. Farnsworth, a scheming millionaire who has just been murdered by his equally scheming and greedy wife. At once touching and funny, the action sees Joe getting back into the boxing ring and falling in love with a young lady who was framed by Farnsworth and had been sent to prison. Both comedy and tension mount as the real Farnsworth’s diabolical wife plans to murder him yet again. After all, if at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. Full of witty dialogue and fascinating characters, Harry Segal’s “Heaven Can Wait” is a delightful mixture of fantasy, comedy and a love story. It was the basis for several films including the 1941 “Here Comes Mr. Jordan,” which
garnered an Academy Award for best original story. That production starred Robert Montgomery as Joe and Claude Raines as Mr. Jordan. The 1978 version starred Warren Beatty, James Mason and Julie Christie. For many years Segal was a contract writer for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayor, Paramount Pictures and Universal Studios, creating screen plays for numerous films including Bret Harte’s “The Outcasts of Poker Flats” and James Hilton’s “Lost Horizons.” He later used his talents to
create numerous memorable television shows including several for the highly acclaimed “Playhouse 90.” The sparkling cast features familiar faces as well as new talent, under the skilled hand of Alaina Beauloye, who is directing her third production for the Hale Centre Theatre. Previously, she helmed this year’s shows “The Man Who Came to Dinner” and “Lend Me a Tenor,” as well as the 2012 children’s show, “Snow White.” Originally from New York City, Beauloye boasts an extensive
list of credits including Broadway, film and commercials. In addition to directing she has appeared in more than 20 Hale productions and is a two-time ariZoni winner. For “Heaven Can Wait” tickets, call (480) 497-1181 or visit www.haletheatrearizona.com. The theater is located at 50 W. Page Ave., downtown Gilbert.
Cruising for a Cause Join the Dignity Health Foundation East Valley on November 7, 2015 to support excellent cardiac care. Volunteers and supporters are coming together for the annual Laughter is the Best Medicine Fundraising Gala –this year’s theme is Cruising for a Cause on the Love Boat. Our team of heart and vascular experts require the highest training and the best equipment available because they have a most important job – letting your heart love longer. So please join us on November 7, 2015 at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa to show your love for excellent cardiac care in the East Valley.
Captain of the Ship Sponsor
Cocktail Party Sponsor
Cruise Momento Sponsor
Auction Sponsor
Candy Table in the Laughter Lounge
For more information on the gala or how to support Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert Medical Centers please contact the Dignity Health Foundation Office, 480.728.3931 or visit the website, www.laughterformedicine.org
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October 2015
WEEK 1 Monday, September 28 - Thursday, October 1 FREE Showcase October 1st at 3pm
WEEK 3 Monday, October 12 - Thursday, October 15 FREE Showcase on October 15th at 3pm
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Buy one meal and get one meal 1/2 off* *Second meal must be of equal or lesser value. Valid Mon.-Thurs 11-3. Not valid with other offers. Expires 10/31/2015
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Arts
October 2015
VENUES
ON STAGE “Something Afoot,” through Saturday, Oct. 10, HCT. Watch the mystery unfold when a group of unlucky guests meet their timely demise. “Heaven Can Wait,” through Nov. 17, HCT. Joe Pendleton is not dead. He is sure of it, despite the fact that his spirit is in limbo. “Peking Dreams,” Thursday, Oct. 1, MAC. The National Circus and Acrobats of The People’s Republic of China were founded in 1958, and since that time the company has been dedicated to the innovation of and excellence in the circus and acrobatic art. “Swan Lake,” Friday, Oct. 2, CCA. The Russian Grand Ballet will present the full-length classic production of Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake.” Brooke Evers, Saturday, Oct. 3, MDNC. Australian-born Brooke Evers has quickly become one of the most exciting DJs on the circuit. “Zoltan Maga, From Budapest with Love,” Wednesday, Oct. 14, MAC. Experience fiery music and Hungarian folk dance brought to life by a case of hand-picked singers, costumed ballroom dancers and chamber orchestra.
pronounced dubs, is comprised of brothers Christopher and Alex van den Hoef. Dia de los Muertos Festival, Saturday, Oct. 24, and Sunday, Oct. 25, MAC. The Day of the Dead festival will feature delicious foods, a colorful Mercado featuring an assortment of Dia de los Muertos merchandise, jewelry, arts and crafts. Youssou N’Dour, Thursday, Nov. 5, MAC. This world music superstar was first heard in the United States as the distinctive voice featured in Peter Gabriel’s hit song “In Your Eyes.” Portland Cello Project, Friday, Nov. 6, MAC. Indie group Portland Cello Project wows audiences with extravagant performances everywhere from “Prairie Home Companion” to punk clubs. “Evil Dead: The Musical,” Tuesday, Nov. 10, through Sunday, Nov. 15, MAC. The hilarious, record-breaking Canadian musical tells the outrageous story of five college friends spending the weekend in an abandoned cabin in the woods after accidentally unleashing an evil force that turns them all into demons.
Orquesta Buena Vista Social Club Adios Tour, Thursday, Oct. 15, MAC. This is the last time fans will be able to experience the live spirited celebration of Cuban sound and culture.
CCA—Chandler Center for the Arts 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler Tickets: (480) 782-2680, www. chandlercenter.org HCT—Hale Center Theatre 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert Tickets: (480) 497-1181, www. haletheatrearizona.com
IMP – IMPROV 930 E. University Dr., Tempe Tickets: (480) 921-9877 or http:// tempeimprov.com MAC—Mesa Arts Center One E. Main St., Mesa Tickets: (480) 644-6500, www. mesaartscenter.com MDNC—Maya Day + Nightclub 7333 E. Indian Plaza, Scottsdale Tickets: (480) 284-6033, www. mayaclubaz.com
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Flip Orley, Friday, Oct. 16, through Sunday, Oct. 18, IMP. He has singlehandedly reshaped the image of hypnosis from its vaudeville image, to an act that is hip and edgy.
Indoor Two Day Vintage Market Featuring Vintage Handmade Goods Repurposed Furniture, One-of-a-Kind Items, Signs, Handmade Goods + Wine Tasting
Taylor Davis, Sunday, Oct. 18, MAC. She is a classically trained American violinist, arranger and composer, whose passion for video game and film music led her to launcher her widely popular YouTube Channel “ViolinTay” in 2010. DVBBS, Saturday, Oct. 24, MDNC. Canadian dance music duo DVBBS,
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Sound Off: WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! SOUND OFF was transcribed from our Sound Off line during the past month. Sound Off is a monthly editorial feature of Gilbert Sun News. We encourage you to participate. As long as it's not profane or libelous we will print it in our next issue. Calls are limited to one minute. Please leave your name only if you'd like it printed. Come on, get it off your chest!
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We just saw someone on TV compliment a woman on her nice, neat, long, well-cared-for hair because it was unusual to not see the just-out-of-bed rumpled sexy look. They think they’re being impressive. Go comb your hair. You look like a floozy. Concerning the National Guard on the southern border. My understanding is that the guard is activated in times of strife like floods or manmade emergency. Riots for example. Adding a few more bodies to the border is not an emergency. I hope I and the reader can contact the state in this matter and find out the criteria for activating the guard. Isn’t television news just wonderful for newcomers who do not understand when it rains they’re still living in the desert? We do have washes that run, streets that flood. Wise up. Learn to live in the desert.
Here is what we have come to in America. In this once-great Christian and civilized nation, a doctor kills a lion and gets national media attention for days and weeks. Other doctors kill 4,000 unborn children of God every day in in the United States. That’s 28,000 every week. That’s 1,460,000 children of God every year—and it does not get national media attention. This America is no longer a Christian nation. This America is no longer a civilized nation. As for the Koch brothers, I guess the reader missed Bernie Sanders’ presentation in the Senate about them. They supported the pipeline because they held a personal interest in the project, i.e., ownership if not control of several companies in the project. They want to get rid of not just change Social Security, not to mention Medicare. This was on the floor of the Senate. You may want to watch YouTube or the actual presentation. They want to stop a right of a woman to choose. Do you want some legislator telling you what you
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can do with your body? Do you, as a man, have them tell you no Viagra? I keep reading about Scottsdale McDowell Corridor. What happened to the $50,000 that we gave to the design center for the McDowell Corridor? Either the money went down the drain or the guy’s on the cruise. They’ve been talking about it for the last five years. Nothing, nothing, nothing is done about it. All you want to do is talk. Why don’t someone at the City wake up. All we have is the diaper (SkySong) still hanging there. Grandma says she has lived long enough now that she has lived to see the epitome of pharmaceutical stupidity. “Measure this gel to be the size of a pea to use for your problem.” Can anything be any dumber? “Measure this gel to be the size of a green pea for your prescription.” Amazing. More than amazing—it’s pure insanity. Rip off. If members of the administration were visiting all the people involved in shootings, there would be an outcry of spending money. I want to see more empathy as well. But more than anything I want to have cops stop killing unarmed people. No matter what the color. When I see Tom “Shady” Brady on ESPN, vehemently denying his guilt in deflating balls, it reminds me of a prostitute standing on a street corner, loudly proclaiming her virtue and innocence.—Bill Spotts, Mesa I don’t want Hillary, either, and I am a Democrat. I just hope there is someone better in the wings. If not again, we are faced with electing the lesser of the evils—regardless of party. When I see the slate of candidates for either party, really I do, I wonder if this is really the best they can do. Take notice Grandma and other babysitters: “Sesame Street” is moving to commercial television. Of course it’s all about money.
October 2015
Verifiable today: There are millions of idiot people in Arizona who will play football in 112-degree heat. No brains at all? Where did these people come from? Arizonans know enough to get out of the sun. Toughen up the next generation. Make sure they go to school the Fourth of July to Labor Day—no matter where they are, the temperature or humidity range. Make sure the school administrators and teachers also go at that same time to their nonaircooled offices. That ought to straighten everybody out. Maybe it’ll teach someone common sense somewhere pretty soon before they’re all crazy with the heat. For anyone who dislikes the content: No one is forcing you to read it. Just turn the page. If you don’t like something in general, don’t ask for it to be removed from the airwaves or shelves. That is censorship. I read “Sound Off” to see how people feel. Too bad I have to sometimes wipe the tears of laughter from my face for the emotional but inaccurate postings. Read or watch other news and information sources. Don’t base your opinions on one source. This goes for medical care, too. I think the “Curmudgeon” (Lovin’ Life After 50), Drew Alexander, has a wonderful, descriptive article without pointing fingers, naming names about what’s happening in this country. I applaud you, Mr. Alexander. Broadcast your letter in more places. We over 50 already know these facts. It’s the young people ages 16 to 46 who have no clue about what’s going on around them. Try to post this in a teen magazine or high school rally. Our young people need to know what’s going on here. So the media’s still going crazy over Hillary’s messages about Benghazi. When are they going to start looking into the phone messages
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when Bush was the governor of Florida? They’re not even curious about that? I’m a patriotic, conservative American and I always enjoy reading all of the opinions in “Sound Off” every single issue. In a recent issue, it was a real delight to note that 90 percent of the responses were by conservatives and only 10 percent were from liberals. Most liberals are Democrats, who, for the most part, are politically uninformed, misinformed, naïve and gullible. Poor Hillary, she’s beginning to show the exact reasons why we do not need a woman as the president. It seems she just can’t seem to make up her mind. We don’t need that kind of a president, do we? Honestly, are you as tired as most Arizonans of the people who come here for a change and then complain of the horses, the houses, the heat, the bugs and the dust? Go home! Stop trying to make this place into what you think you want. Go home. Leave us alone. We love our horses, our heat, our dust and desert, just as it is. We don’t need any help from people like you. Hey, grandparents, when you take those little children to the park or zoo, how much close observance do you teach them? Do you really see what you’re looking at? Do you closely observe how the flowers in the ground are growing and blooming and the seeds that it will send out and the little bug that’s in it right now pollinating. That’s called close observance. How do you like this new cyber world where freedom of speech can no longer be applied to defamation of character when said in public. Boy are they’re all having fun out there making fun of everybody else. Apply see SOUND OFF page 51
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Classifieds
October 2015
WINDOW CLEANING TIME Dirty Windows, Filthy Screens. WINDOWS interior and exterior SCREENS sunscreens and regular TRACKS CEILING FANS LIGHT FIXTURES POWER WASHING driveways, sidewalks and patios Accredited Member BBB Call FISH WINDOW CLEANING 480-962-4688
CLEANING SERVICES RED MOUNTAIN MAIDS Homes/Offices/Commercial Low prices. Serving the East Valley for 10 years! Prompt, courteous service $15/hr using your supplies or $17/hr w/our cleaning supplies Call 480-354-7928 or 480-206-9998
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PROFESSIONAL HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE 35 years Experience – 20 years in the Valley Free Estimates Local References Move-out cleaning services available. All work done by non-smoking, meticulous owner. Call Shirley 480-433-4945
GREAT JOB – WORKING FOR AN ACTIVE RETIRED LADY Must live-in. Salary, beautiful home & flexible time off in exchange for light housekeeping, some cooking, some driving, errands, etc. Must have local references & good driving record. No smoking or alcohol. 480-895-3117
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HOME REMODELING HOLTZMAN HOME IMPROVEMENT People do business with people they trust Home Remodeling, Additions & Handyman Jobs -Kitchens or Baths in 5 Days -Painting/Drywall/Stucco -Plumbing/Electrical -Tile/Flooring -Fencing/Roofing -Decks/Garages -Stock Cabinets We Do it All! 24 Hour Emergency Services Licensed/Bonded/Insured ROC#242008 FALL SPECIAL 15% off labor on any job over $1,000 Must mention this ad for discount Can’t combine with any other offer Call for a Free Estimate! 602-628-8735 602-323-6574 Holtzmanhomeimprovement.com HOME REMODELING/REPAIRS & CUSTOM INTERIOR PAINTING Move a wall; turn a door into a window. From small jobs and repairs to room additions, I do it all. Precision interior painting, carpentry, drywall, tile, windows, doors, skylights, electrical, fans, plumbing and more. All trades done by hands-on General Contractor. Friendly, artistic, intelligent, honest and affordable. 40 years’ experience. Call Ron Wolfgang Office 480-820-8515 Cell 602-628-9653 Wolfgang Construction Inc. Licensed & Bonded ROC 124934
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PET SERVICES PET SITTER/HOUSE SITTER Will care for your pets or home while you are away. Daily visits include walking and playing with your pet, refilling food and water dishes, picking up of mail, newspapers etc. 15 years of experience Local Resident Good references available Call Elvira 702-265-2036
POOL SERVICES AS LOW AS $70/MONTH FOR POOL SERVICE Drain, fill & acid wash, $150 for most pools. We do repairs too. CPO Technician LIZARDPOOLSLLC 480-489-0713
TRAVEL LANDSCAPING SERVICES ALL PRO TREE SERVICE, LLC Tree Trimming, Tree Removals, Stump Grinding, Monthly Landscape Maintenance, Full Yard Clean Ups, Palm Trees, Deep Root Fertilization, Irrigation, Etc. Free Estimate, Very Professional, Insured, and Bonded! Visa & MasterCard Accepted Mention this Ad and Receive 15% off Discount! 480-354-5802 or dennis@allprotrees.com See Our Ad in the Biz Box Section
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Government must covet, acquire, adapt to 21st century technology BY DENNY BARNEY, MARICOPA COUNTY SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 1
Remembering birthdays, finding a friend’s house DENNY BARNEY. and ordering a Submitted photo pizza are a lot easier with modern technology. The digital era provides us with convenience, time savings and entertainment in our personal and professional lives. Technology abounds, but government has been a notoriously slow adapter. We have plodded along on outdated systems, ostensibly to save money. The price of frugality has been high, however. By failing to invest in technology, we have absorbed higher costs in personnel, inefficiencies and down-times. Worse, our employees and constituents experience enormous frustration and delays. My colleagues and I are reversing the trend. In the past couple years we have enhanced technology and capacity in county government. Here are two examples. Submitting construction plans Building a house is an arduous, intensive process: Applicants must submit multiple copies of plans, wait for red lines, make corrections, schedule inspections and, after all that, obtain a building permit. Not long ago, the process was almost entirely manual and paper-based. What a difference. Today county customers can do all those things electronically. A contractor can design and obtain the approval to build a home without ever leaving his office.
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Inspectors benefit from automation as well. They are able to access assignments and upload inspection results remotely—from the field. This flexibility allows them to complete more inspections in a day. It also ensures customers get real-time information. Processing an inmate Our detention officers work in a stressful and dangerous environment. They need comprehensive information about inmates as quickly as possible. That was not always achievable using a decadesold information system. This year, we approved a replacement of the antiquated system. This new jail management system, called SHIELD, will replace five systems that were previously being operated in silos. Instead of limited function keys, the new system will bring us into the 21st century with drop-down menus accessible with a mouse. SHIELD has
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Oh guess what? The latest social society scheme has reached grandma’s phone number. Someone decided to use her unusual name for a dating scam on her cellphone that she doesn’t have. But they identified themselves as her with her name and home phone number. It’s amazing what these crazies can do. Just find them and put them in a cave somewhere, so they can talk to each other on their little cellphones. What a world this has become. Grandma’s glad to be leaving it soon. Cellphone dating? Yuck. What’s next? I think the Scottsdale city manager turned his back on South Scottsdale when he closed the senior center. This has been a terrible tragedy to all the seniors.
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increased reporting functionality. It has the capability, through biometrics, to match a person re-entering the criminal justice system, alerting detention staff of prior medical history or other liability issues. Now pictures of body markings and tattoos can be uploaded into the system whereas previously they could only be described with text. Such detailed information creates a much safer environment for our detention officers and minimizes human error. The full implementation of SHIELD will cost $32.2 million over 10 years. We estimate total cost savings of $31.23 million over the same 10-year period. And this doesn’t factor in costs recovered through greater efficiency and personnel savings. It’s a win-win. Of course, there are still many other areas where the county must do more. We must use technology to deliver better services. Ultimately, we hope to deliver county government services with the same convenience and quality that you enjoy in the other areas of your life.
October 2015
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October 2015
www.GilbertSunNews.com
TAYLOR MORRISON WANTS TO HELP YOU FIND YOUR HAPPY PLACE IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS! The holidays are just around the corner and we’re here to help make your dreams come true this holiday season. We have Move-In Ready Homes available now in brand new communities, in great locations. You can move into your dream home faster than you think! Come visit these quick move-in ready homes today, and start packing tomorrow.
Over 30 Phoenix-area Communities
FIND YOUR HAPPINESS AT WWW.PHOENIXQUICKMOVEINS.COM
Offer void where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. All incentives, pricing, availability and plans subject to change or delay without notice. Please see a Taylor Morrison Sales Associate for details and visit www.taylormorrison.com for additional disclaimers. Taylor Morrison/Arizona, Inc., AZ ROC # 179178B. © September, 2015, TM Homes of Arizona, Inc., AZ DRE # CO535669000. All rights reserved.