Mesa students' mural / P. 18
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An edition of the East Valley Tribune
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Sunday, February 28, 2021
Mesa anti-discrimination ordinance hotly debated
INSIDE
This Week
BY TOM SCANLON Tribune Managing Editor
I
f Mesa City Council joins other big Arizona cities by passing a non-discrimination ordinance tomorrow, March 1, public comments at last week’s meeting suggest few will be truly happy. Some will be upset if the city excludes smaller businesses. The �irst draft included all businesses. Later study sessions adjusted that, �irst up to businesses with 15 employees or more,
then back down to include all but those with �ive or fewer employees. Others are furious that the city is even considering the regulation. David Land said he was outraged over language in the proposed ordinance that “Gender identity means the actual or perceived gender-related identity, expression, appearance, or mannerisms, or other gender-related characteristics of an individual, regardless of the individual’s designated sex at birth.” An emotional Land stated the last part of that is wrong: “God does not make mistakes,”
he said. Land, pastor of New Life Assembly of God, warned that passing the law would “open a Pandora’s box of perversion and sin. “If you pass this, the city of Mesa will be rife for the judgment of God.” Later, Lisa Winger cited her religious beliefs in supporting the anti-discrmination law. “The God I believe in would want love and equality for all his children,” Winger said. The ordinance council is to vote on at 5:45
��� NDO ���� 6
‘Safe ball!’ cry starts Cactus League
NEWS ........................... 3 Amazon sets up shop in Mesa.
SPORTS .................... 24 Ex-QB McNabb counseling quarterbacks. COMMUNITY ............................... 8 BUSINESS ..................................... 22 SPORTS ........................................ 24 GET OUT ........................................ 27 PUZZLES ...................................... 29 CLASSIFIED ................................. 30 Zone
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BY TOM SCANLON Tribune Managing Editor
M
asks aren’t just for catchers and umpires, anymore: Everyone has to wear them. While watching veterans and rookies sliding into home, Major League Baseball wants fans to be safe in stands. The tradeoff to having a Cactus League season in 2021 includes severely-reduced attendance, cashless transactions, maintenance of physical distancing and mandatory masks, all aimed at mitigating the spread of COVID-19. “Take me out to the ballpark” is becoming “take out your Ballpark app.” Autographs? Fuggettaboutit, as old Brooklyn Dodgers fans used to say. The casual intimacy of chatting with play-
��� CACTUS ���� 4
Mesa Historical Museum Executive Director Susan Ricci is marking Spring Training with the return of the popular spring baseball exhibit.. For a look, see page 4. (Pablo Robles/Tribune Staff)
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THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
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NEWS
Amazon powers Falcon District take off
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BY TOM SCANLON Tribune Managing Editor
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s it takes its name from Falcon Field Airport, it’s not surprising that the Falcon District in northeast Mesa is dominated by aviation high �liers like Boeing, Northrop Grumman and HD Helicopters. Now, a “ground-and-pound” heavyweight has joined the Falcon lineup – and leads a takeoff in jobs in the district. Those who have become accustomed – if not addicted – to online shopping might be �inding packages on their doorsteps even sooner, as Amazon has set up a “last mile” delivery hub in the Falcon District. Though Amazon has thrown up huge warehouses in Chandler, Phoenix and Goodyear over the last few years, the global online sales powerhouse took its time setting up shop in Mesa – somewhat of a surprise, as this is not only the third-largest city in the state, but also the gateway to Queen Creek, Apache Junction and other fast-growing communities to the east. “This is Amazon’s �irst site in Mesa,” con�irmed Lisa Guinn, a company spokeswoman. She said the warehouse, which opened
In the Falcon District, Amazon launched its first Mesa warehouse before Christmas. Nearby construction by Boeing, Bemo and other companies is expected to bring hundreds more jobs to northeast Mesa. (Pablo Robles/Tribune Staff Photographer) weeks before Christmas, is “more than 140,000 square feet and employs hundreds of full- and part-time employees.” Amazon is hiring more warehouse workers and drivers for the site at 3115 N. Higley Road. Local leaders quickly incorporated the
new operation into their pitches and are now able to boast Mesa is home to newtech companies like Amazon, Apple, First Solar and Dexcom, with Google on the horizon, as well as old-schoolers like Gen-
DREW PASSMONICK
IVAN FAVELA
Ivan correctly spelled 32 out of the 35 words on the test. A tiebreaker test was needed to break a three-way tie for second place. Ivan and Drew will join the top spellers from other regions next month to vie
for a chance to represent Arizona in the national Scripps Spelling Bee. And unlike last year – and unlike the Arizona bees – the �inale of the vaunted na-
��� AMAZON ���� 9
2 Mesa students on way to state spelling bee TRIBUNE NEWS STAFF
M
esa is home to the top two spellers this year in the region – and they are students in two different school districts. Ivan Favela, a sixth grader at Patterson Elementary in Mesa Public Schools, grabbed �irst place in a regional spelling bee that pitted the top wordsmiths from MPS, Kyrene and Tempe Elementary districts as well as local private and charter schools. Joining Ivan in the state bee will be Drew Passmonick, a seventh grader in Kyrene School District’s new Kyrene Digital Academy who placed second in the regional spell-off. Among 19 participants in the regional contest, the top �ive slots were �illed out by Carena Todd of MPS’s Mesa Academy for Advanced Studies, who placed third; fourth place �inisher Lincoln Trembath, of Kyrene de los Lagos Elementary; and Hailey Manter of St. Timothy Catholic School.
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NEWS
CACTUS ���� ���� 1
ers and asking for them to sign hats, shirts, programs etc., long a cherished Spring Training tradition, is another victim of the pandemic. The Cactus League is pitching “safeball,” but baseball fans are hungry, as they snatched up tickets in about the time of a long home run’s �light. Spring Training 2021 begins this week in Mesa at Sloan Park, home of the Chicago Cubs since 2014, and historic Hohokam Stadium, where the Oakland Athletics play home games at 1235 N. Center Street. The A’s host the Los Angeles Dodgers at 1:05 p.m. today. First pitch at Sloan Park is 1:05 p.m. Tuesday, when the Cubs take on the Kansas City Royals. While Cubs fans grabbed all the Sloan Park tickets in a �lash, some single-game tickets remained on sale for A’s games. Instead of the usual 15,000 crammed into Sloan Park and 10,000-plus at Hohokam, attendance will be limited to 2025 percent of capacity here and at other Cactus League parks. Sloan Park, at 2330 West Rio Salado Parkway, is the centerpiece of a rapidlydeveloping area. The ballpark lures Cubs-ravished fans and is the reason Power Hotel Groups built two hotels, Sheraton Wrigleyville
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
West and Courtyard Wrigleyville West. The latter just opened in September and will have its �irst Spring Training guests. You can’t get much closer to the ballpark than at the Courtyard Wrigleyville West. From some rooms, “you can see down into the stadium,” said Kevin Thorpe, general manager of the Sheraton Mesa hotels. “I joke that I’m going to put some stands next to the window.” Thorpe said baseball fans and others just looking for a reason to get out of the frigid Midwest and East are starting to head to Mesa. “Weekend business is looking strong for Spring Training,” Thorpe added. He’s projecting around 70 percent occupancy for March at the two hotels, which is solid but hardly the 95-100 percent he expects for “normal” Cactus League seasons. While electronic tickets sold via the Major League Baseball app �lew out the door, “We were able to secure 50 tickets per game for hotels that we’re packaging,” Thorpe said. The Sheraton/Courtyard packages are part of Visit Mesa’s VisitMesaDeals.com, “an online hub where locals and out-oftowners can browse tons of specials targeted to upcoming spring season staycations and day trips to the East Valley.” DoubleTree by Hilton Mesa has a Spring Training package inducing breakfast and
drink vouchers. Also through Visit Mesa’s deals, Jake’s Unlimited arcade on Baseline Road offers a $25 “Pro Pass” with all-day admission, unlimited food/drinks, rides, laser tag, arcade games and two mini-bowling games. Restaurant deals include all-day happy hour at Desert Eagle Brewing Co. and 20 percent discounts at Knuckle Sandwiches in East Mesa, both with ticket stubs. But there won’t be paper tickets, this year. Steve Adams and his HoHoKam staff will be checking electronic tickets on fans’ phones and making sure they are properly wearing masks. “It will be different from what we’ve ever experienced,” said Adams, president of the Mesa HoHoKams, which started in 1951 to bring Spring Training to Mesa. The HoHoKams provide parking, usher and guest service staff for Sloan Park and HoHoKam Stadium. They sell 50/50 raf�le tickets at games, with the proceeds going to local youth organizations and charities. Even with reduced attendance, “We will still have quite a few members serving at each of the games,” Adams said. “Our �irst training was last night with the Cubs, and almost all of it was COVID protocols. Cleanliness, masks, how we’re checking in customers and fans,” Adams said. “It’s a very different thing.” Staff “are going to have to wear masks
the whole time. Even fans have to wear masks unless they’re immediately eating or drinking. Having a beer walking around isn’t going to work,” Adams said. The message from the Cactus League: Bring your credit cards. “Sloan Park will be cashless in 2021. From parking and retail to concessions and 50/50 raf�le tickets, all purchases will be cashless and require a credit card,” according to the Cubs’ website. Similarly, the A’s note, “Hohokam Stadium will be a cash-free ballpark in 2021. Fans can use major credit cards and debit cards for all food, drink and merchandise purchases.” A new thing: “Reverse ATMs” will be available to convert cash to a credit card that can be used for purchases at Sloan Park and elsewhere. And fans will be able to whip out their phones to order food and drinks: “You can order food and beverages on your phone via the MLB Ballpark app or online via a scanned QR code,” said the Cubs’ website. “You can order at your seat and then go pick up your food,” said Adams. The Cubs and the rest of the Cactus League stress, “We’re taking extensive precautions to ensure our protocols cover all the bases and adhere to the Centers for
Launched in 2009, the Play Ball exhibit has been displayed at various venues with parts of the Play Ball collection previously displayed at locations such as the Scottsdale Civic Center Library in 2017. Now, the museum, located at 2345 N Horne in Mesa, is the only current museum with the collection, some of which the Cac-
they know about [the history of spring training], and it’s a fun part of Mesa’s history,” Peters said. Once a storage room at the museum built within the historic Lehi Schoolhouse, which The "Play Ball" exhibit at Mesa Historical Museum offers has a history tus League treasured relics of the early days of Cactus League history dating back to in the region. (Pablo Robles/Tribune Staff Photographer) has sponthe 1880s, the sored. renovated space is set to be one of the muThe exhibit is curated to “wow” people seum’s largest exhibits showcasing hunand teach the rich history of baseball in dreds of pieces from years past. Mesa, said Anita Peters, board of directors In Arizona, nearly 1.8 million baseball chair at the Mesa Historical Museum. ��� MUSEUM ���� 12 “I think that it’s really important that
Cactus baseball exhibit returns to Mesa BY KEVIN PIREHPOUR Tribune Staff Writer
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aseball is back in Arizona and so is one of Mesa’s most popular historical exhibits. After a long hiatus in Mesa, the “Play Ball: The Arizona Spring Training Experience,” is set to open Saturday, March 6, at 10 a.m. as a permanent exhibit at the Mesa Historical Museum. The exhibit takes museum-goers through decades of Spring Training history and the birth of the Cactus League – showcasing old uniforms, signed memorabilia, vintage video footage and other relics of the past that have survived decades mostly in private collections. “There’s a strong presence of baseball here in Mesa because of spring training and we felt it was the right thing to do, to bring it back to the museum and back to Mesa,” said Susan Ricci, museum executive director.
��� CACTUS ���� 12
TrueConnection TVG2012266-March_ad_R4 2/22/21 9:47 PM Page 1
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
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NEWS
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
NDO ���� ���� 1
p.m. Monday would add to the city code language “prohibiting discrimination in public accommodation, employment and housing on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, veteran’s status, marital status and familial status and establishing penalties for violations thereof.” The virtual meeting can be viewed online at youtube.com/user/cityofmesa11/live Those who wish to weigh in can call 888-788-0099 or 877-853-5247 (meeting ID 5301232921) or submit comments up to an hour before the meeting at mesaaz. gov/government/city-council-meetings/ online-meeting-comment-card. At the Feb. 22 council meeting introducing the ordinance, more than 50 residents called or emailed their often-passionate thoughts. The reaction was about evenly split between those who said Mesa has no business passing such a law and those who encouraged the city to protect its diverse population. Ron Williams, a Visit Mesa board member and 20-year Mesa resident, said: “Adopting this non-discrimination ordinance will make a statement to the world that Mesa is open to everyone and will send a message to those who would discriminate against citizens that Mesa is not going to have it.” Others who spoke in support of the measure included a teacher, a parent of “gay and straight children,” a parent of a transgender child and a transgender parent. “As a member of the LGBTQ community and parent of a transgender child, I support this,” said Shane Cooper. “I want to know my child will not become another transgender death statistic. As a Realtor, I feel this is a needed step.” Cooper added passing the ordinance will lead to “an in�lux of LGBTQ residents who will bring more diversity and culture … this will only be a win-win.” Christiana Hammond, who identi�ied as a “transgender parent,” noted neighboring cities Tempe and Phoenix have similar ordinances.
Mesa City Council approved moving a proposed non-discrimination ordinance forward and is expected to vote on the hotly-debated measure Monday. (City of Mesa) “A non-discrimination ordinance would signal to the entire city people like me are accepted,” Hammond said. “I wouldn’t have to hide anymore.” Exclusions to the ordinance include federal government and state agencies,
Giles, who wanted to know if the proposed ordinance would allow “a person with bad intent allowed to go into a women’s restroom and do mischief or intimidate someone,” city Assistant Attorney Jacqueline Ganier emphatically said the ordinance is
Adopting this non-discrmination ordinance will make a statement to the world that Mesa is open to everyone and will send a message to those who would discriminate against citizens that Mesa is not going to have it. religious, public and charter schools and religious organizations “when furthering (the) organization’s purpose.” At an earlier study session, City Attorney Jim Smith noted ordinances banning discrimination in Tempe, Flagstaff, Tucson and other cities were reviewed while Mesa’s was crafted. Answering a question from Mayor John
not a “free pass” for criminal behavior. “Any nefarious leering, anything like that is not now and would not be allowed,” Ganier stated. But several who spoke at last week’s meeting were not buying that. “This is very unfair to children to put them in a situation that can cause them harm,” said Nancy Ashcroft. “This is a per-
fect storm for pedophile activity.” Matthew Watson agreed and went further. “We as a community will not stand for this type of perversion,” Watson said. “My wife and daughter’s privacy is being violated if this passes. I’m already concerned for them because of human traf�icking … now we are seeing this disgusting ordinance being considered.” The proposed ordinance seems to have a strong chance of becoming law. Though none spoke at the Feb. 22 meeting, at previous study sessions, most council members and Giles gave strong support to an ordinance outlawing discrimination. By a 6-1 vote, Councilwoman Jen Duff’s motion to move the ordinance forward – with an amendment making it applicable to businesses of �ive or more – was approved. Councilman Kevin Thompson cast the lone vote against. “I really don’t believe we need an NDO in Mesa,” Thompson said, at an earlier study session. “The emails we’ve been getting show it’s very divisive … I hate that we have something like this that’s driving a wedge between our citizens.”
GOT NEWS? Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@timespublications.com
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
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8
NEWS
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
Mesa lagging in vaccinations, county data show
BY TOM SCANLON Tribune Managing Editor
M
aricopa County Department of Health’s weekly update last week showed 530,000 adults have been vaccinated with at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, bringing the total to 15 percent of the county population. But Mesa continues to lag in vaccination rates. Though still limited to those 65 and older, teachers, emergency responders and a few other groups, 180,000 in the county have been fully vaccinated with two doses of vaccine. With 23,000 doses of vaccine hitting county residents per day, half of those vaccinated in Maricopa County are 65 years or older — and 53 percent of those 75 or older in the county have been vaccinated with at least one shot of the two-dose regimen. The East Valley is more of a mixed bag, with Mesa continuing to lag on vaccination rates. A vaccination map illustrating those receiving at least one shot shows much of Mesa behind the curve, with fewer than half of residents eligible for vaccinations receiving shots in most neighborhoods. Chandler and Gilbert generally had much higher vaccination rates.
A vaccination map shows much of Mesa lagging, with less than half of residents eligible for vaccinations receiving shots in most neighborhoods. Mesa’s neighbors in Chandler and Gilbert had much higher vaccination rates. (Maricopa County) Seven of Mesa’s ZIP codes were under 50 percent. Vaccination rates for those eligible in Mesa were at 47 percent in 85201 and 85206 and around 40 percent in 85210, 85203, 85204, 85208 and 85205. Mesa 85213 was right at 50 percent while 85207 was over 56 percent. In northeast Mesa, 85215 had nearly 60 percent of eligible residents vaccinated – the same rate as 85209 in southeast Mesa. Also in the southeast, 85212 had 67 per-
cent vaccinated. In Gilbert, 85233 and 85234 were at 60 percent, with 64 percent in 85295. Gilbert 85298 was at 71 percent and a whopping 74 percent of eligible residents of 85296 have received the vaccine. Gilbert 85297 was even better, with 82 percent of the eligible residents vaccinated. Chandler 85249 topped that, with 84 percent of the eligible residents vaccinated. Though Chandler 85225 was at 57 percent, other Chandler ZIP codes topped 70
open and operating is an important step,” said Ducey. “Arizona has called on the federal government to provide our state with more vaccine doses. As more supply becomes available, we’ll be ready to administer the vaccine and protect Arizonans.” The county planned to end vaccinations at the school even though it is one of the busiest distribution sites. Dignity Health currently manages the site in collaboration with the county and it will be replaced in partnership with the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and the Maricopa County Community College District. At full capacity, the Chandler Gilbert Community College site will have a similar capacity to State Farm Stadium at 12,000 vaccines per day and can be operated
24/7, state of�icials said. Due to the limited amount of vaccine allocated to the state, the site will initially operate from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. It will continue to provide the P�izer vaccine and will be available to provide second doses to individuals who received their �irst at the site. Appointments for �irst and second doses will open for registration at 9 a.m. Monday, March 1. “A region with well more than half of our state’s population will now have three state-run vaccination sites that position Arizona to vaccinate large numbers rapidly as vaccine supplies expand,” said state health Director Dr. Cara Christ. “Arizona has proven that the state’s nationally recognized model for these vaccination sites is scalable and transferable to other locations. By combining state resources with the support of partners, we can continue getting more
percent vaccination rates. While county data on ages show 53 percent of those 75 and older and 30 percent of those between 65 and 74 vaccinated, the breakdown on minorities is less clear. The county data shows 66 percent of the vaccines have gone to those who identify as white, with 11 percent unknown. Of those vaccinated who shared their race, only 2 percent were Black – far less than the 5 percent of Blacks in Maricopa County’s population. And, of those who received vaccines, only 6 percent identi�ied as Hispanic or Latino — but only 38 percent are listed as “non-Hispanic or Latino,” with 56 percent as “unknown.” The Tribune asked David Thomas, CEO of ASU Research Enterprise, about the disparity in vaccine delivery. “There is a proposal being developed with a number of partnerships and community organizations (for) underserved populations,” he said. “This is a high priority area as we’re rolling out new PODs (points of distribution). “I don’t have anything I can announce, but it’s recognized as a high priority,” Thomas added. Data released by the county on Thursday showed virus spread continues to trend
��� VAX ���� 14
State rescues college vaccination site from closure TRIBUNE NEWS STAFF
T
he state has stepped in to keep Chandler-Gilbert Community College as a COVID-19 vaccination site after the Maricopa County Department of Public Health tried to shut it down. Gov. Doug Ducey and the Arizona Department of Health Services said making the campus a state is “avoiding the closure of a successful mass vaccination site and further expanding the state’s nationally recognized model for speeding up vaccine administration.” The vaccination site at Chandler-Gilbert Community College will begin operating as a state-run location on Wednesday, March 3. “We’re committed to making the COVID-19 vaccine accessible to all Arizonans. Keeping this successful vaccination site
doses into the arms of Arizonans.” ADHS opened the 24/7 State Farm Stadium site Jan. 11 and opened the site at Arizona State University’s Phoenix Municipal Stadium on Feb. 1. On Feb. 18, ADHS and the University of Arizona marked the conversion of a vaccination site in central Tucson into the �irst state site serving southern Arizona. Planning is also underway for state-operated sites in western and northern Arizona. Information about all the vaccination sites across Arizona can be found at azhealth.gov/�indvaccine. Those without computer access or needing extra help registering can call 1-844-542-8201 to be connected with an operator who can assist. People can use the patient portal at podvaccine.azdhs.gov to make an appointment for someone else in a prioritized group, such as someone 65 and older.
NEWS
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
AMAZON ���� ���� 3
eral Dynamics, Northrop Grumman and Boeing. Meanwhile, Boeing is expanding its operations in Mesa, with a new building across Higley Road from Amazon, making the two Seattle-based companies neighbors. Those who live in the area or frequent Longbow or Apache Wells golf clubs can expect even more growth along North Higley Road south of the Loop 202. According to real estate tracker Vizzda, Lexin Capital paid the Opus Group $36 million for the warehouse on the west edge of Longbow Golf Club. According to Lexin’s website, “This mission critical facility is 100 percent leased to Amazon for over 12 years.” Perhaps just as crucial to the deal as the warehouse, the property Lexin bought includes 18 acres of vacant land. According to Vizzda, “The site includes plans for three additional proposed industrial buildings.” Mayor John Giles said the click-and-deliver company coming here was really a no
brainer. “We’ve all been enjoying next day Amazon deliveries in Mesa for quite a while, so of course they were going to have large warehouses here,” Giles said. “They have to keep up with the demand.” Though he said Amazon landing here is not a surprise, “nonetheless, we celebrate it.” He noted that, while Google and other data crunchers will be hiring engineers and programmers, Amazon providing hundreds of good-paying (starting pay of $15 per hour), blue-collar jobs is a welcome addition. William Jabjiniak, the city’s Economic Development director since 2007, said the Falcon District is ready to take off, so to speak. He noted two industrial buildings going up on North Green�ield Road near the 202 and a 100,000 square foot warehouse set for Val Vista Road and Thomas Drive. In addition to new hangars going up on the air�ield, more development is going on south of Falcon Field Airport, including a Bemo building.
BEE ���� ���� 3
Jabjiniak said the long-awaited Home2 Suites Mesa Longbow is on the way. “We’re opening in May 2021, but aren’t accepting reservations yet,” says the hotel’s website. And a few restaurants in the Falcon District will be opening soon, Jabjiniak said. Boeing, the star of the district, employs around 4,500, with more jobs coming soon: “They are in expansion mode, under construction (for a) 165,000 square foot campus,” Jabjiniak said. That would add to the estimated 500 jobs at Amazon, which Jabjiniak said is also supporting the Falcon District microeconomy: “Drivers are stopping for gas, they’re stopping to eat in restaurants.” Councilman David Luna, who has represented the Falcon District and the rest of District 5 for eight years, said the Longbow area is “constantly looking for future development. It’s a very exciting area.” Though he noted it’s hard to challenge District 6 in southeast Mesa, which still has huge chunks of developable land, District 5 will be growing fast this year: “We do have a lot of space for development.”
tional contest will be an in-person event. The district-level, regional and state bees have been and will be conducted through online tests. Then, the state winners will compete in another online contest to reduce the �ield of contestants to 10-12. Those �inalists will gather in Orlando, Florida, on July 8 to compete at Walt Disney World’s ESPN Wide World of Sports complex for nationally televised event on ESPN2. The E.E. Scripps Company said, “As the world continues to adapt to an ongoing pandemic, Scripps is committed to reimagining the beloved competition in a way that safely allows our exceptional spellers to continue this iconic tradition on the national stage.” “The decision to limit the in-person portion of the competition to no more than 12 spellers was made in consideration of the health and safety of participants, their families and everyone involved in the event’s production as the country continues to combat the COVID-19 pandemic,” it added.
GOT NEWS? Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@timespublications.com
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THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
Mountain View High mega-project begins in May
BY PAUL MARYNIAK Tribune Executive Editor
T
he $35-million renovation of Mountain View High School is set to begin this spring and by the time it’s done, more than 3,500 students and staff may feel like they’re on a brand-new campus. “We are touching all of Mountain View High School,” Architect Neil Pieratt of SPS+ Architects last week told the Mesa Public Schools Governing Board as he gave an overview of the multi-phased project funded by the $300-million bond issue voters approved in 2018. From a new performing arts addition to possibly a new gymnasium, the entire project on the 45-year-old campus not only will add new amenities and more ef�iciently organize space for various administrative and academic functions but also will have numerous accents reinforcing the Toros brand, he said. That means lots of red accents inside and out. Even some trees that have reached the end of their life span will be replaced by Chinese Pistache trees on the Lindsay Road entrance used by students and parents who drop off their kids. The trees’ leaves turn red in the fall. Among the �irst projects to get off the drawing board in May will be work on the campus’ north side. New turf and lighting will be installed on practice and competition �ields as well as on an area reserved for HIIT training. The parking area will be upgraded. A sand volleyball court will be installed and even the tennis court could get some love. At the same time on the south side along Brown Road, a facelift will begin on the main entryway and frontage area. Staff parking will be built and the bus lane will be extended. “We are looking at doing a grand new entry,” Pieratt explained, noting the new canopy will be cantilevered in the shape of a “T” for “Toros.” At street level, two large concrete pieces shaped as an “M” and a “V” – in red, of course – also will be added “so if you want
to do a sel�ie, that will be the place to do it,” he said. “We wanted to respect the traditional architecture, the older style architecture,” he added, “but wanted to give it a new palette.” The 70,000square-foot building beyond that canopy will be rearranged – giving the campus additional 10 classrooms “we didn’t know we had,” Pieratt said. The classrooms will be located on one end of the building while of�ices will be consolidated on the other end with room for nurses, counselors This rendering shows the early stages of what will likely be a years-long renovation of the Mountain View High and other service School campus. (SPS+ Architects) and administrative be gutting the top �loor of the two-story will be a major goal. staff. Board President Jenny Richardson Work also will begin on the building to create a performing arts addi160,000-square foot academic building, tion with studios, a scene shop, backstage, stressed the need to have “minimize the impact for education” – an acknowledgwhere more than half will be renovated auditorium and rehearsal areas. Pieratt stressed that throughout the ment that some learning will be going on this summer. The biggest part of that project will renovation, providing safety and security even during the summer. Pieratt admitted, “It’s going to be quite a task to get that done over summer, but that top �loor has to be back functioning at some level and they're going to hit it heavy.” He was referring to the building where classrooms and of�ice space will be consolidated. He said the contractor has been meeting with subcontractors to set up an aggressive work schedule. “They know that it's priority number one,” he said, referring to the recon�iguraThe main entry to the school will be updated to reinforce the Toros brand with a tion of the 70,000-square-foot building. cantilevered canopy in the shape of a "T" and a split "V" resembling a mountain. “Secondary to that is the performing arts (SPS+ Architects) building.”
GOT NEWS? Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@timespublications.com
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
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determined after a detailed neurological and vascular evaluation. As long as you have not sustained at least 95% nerve damage there is hope!
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The treatment that is provided at Aspen Medical has three main goals. 1) Increase blood flow 2) Stimulate and increase small fiber nerves 3) Decrease brain-based pain The treatment to increase blood flow, stimulate small nerve fibers and get you back to health is our new $50,000.00 SANEXAS UNIT!
As you can see in Figure 2, as the blood vessels that surround the nerves become diseased they shrivel up which causes the nerves to not get the nutrients to continue to survive. When these nerves begin to “die” they cause you to have balance problems, pain, numbness, tingling, burning, and many additional symptoms.
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The main problem is that your doctor has told you to just live with the problem or try the drugs which you don’t like taking because they make you feel uncomfortable. There is now a facility right here in Mesa that offers you hope without taking those endless drugs with serious side effects. (See the special neuropathy severity examination at the end of this article) In order to effectively treat your neuropathy three factors must be determined. 1) What is the underlying cause? 2) How much nerve damage has been sustained.
In addition, we use a state-of-the-art diagnostics like the TM Flow diagnostic unit to accurately determine the increase in blood flow and a small skin biopsy to accurately determine the increase in small nerve fibers! The Sanexas electric cell signaling system delivers energy to the affected area of your body at varying wavelengths, including both low-frequency and middle-frequency signals. It also uses amplitude modulated (AM) and frequency modulated (FM) signaling. During a treatment session, the Sanexas system automatically changes to simultaneously deliver AM and FM electric cell signal energy. THE GREAT NEWS IS THAT SANEXAS IS COVERED BY MEDICARE AND MOST INSURANCE! Depending on your coverage, your treatment could be little to no cost to you! The amount of treatment needed to allow the nerves to fully recover varies from person to person and can only be
Aspen Medical will be offering this chronic pain and neuropathy severity examination from now until March 31, 2021. Call 480274-3157 to make an appointment to determine if your chronic pain and peripheral neuropathy can be successfully treated. Due to our very busy office schedule, we are limiting this FREE consultation offer to the first 15 callers. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO SUFFER ANOTHER MINUTE, CALL Call 480-274-3157 … NOW! We are extremely busy and if your call goes to our voicemail, please leave a message and we will get back to you asap.
480-274-3157 1425 S. Greenfield Rd., Ste. 101 Mesa, AZ 85206
12
NEWS
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
Dobson High graduate brings ‘Raya’ to life BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Tribune Staff Writer
D
obson High School graduate Dorian Bustamante has a resume that speaks volumes. Joining Walt Disney Animation studios in 2019, Bustamante is embedded in the legendary family, having worked on Marvel Studios’ “Avengers: In�inity War” and “Avengers: End Game” as well as Disney’s upcoming “Jungle Cruise.” His �irst job? “Star Wars: Attack of the Clones.” “I submitted (my resume), interviewed and was hired,” he said. “So, my �irst gig, luckily, was in the ‘Star Wars’ art department.” Bustamante now is getting ready to celebrate the March 5 release of “Raya and the Last Dragon,” for which he served as the layout artist. It will be available on Disney+ with premier access in most markets, at the same time it’s released
CACTUS ���� ���� 4
in select theaters. “Raya and the Last Dragon” takes place in the fantasy world of Kumandra, where humans and dragons lived together. But when an evil force threatened the land, the dragons sacri�iced themselves to save humanity. Now, 500 years later, that same evil has returned and it’s up to a lone warrior, Raya, to track down the legendary last dragon to restore the fractured land and its divided people. Like most Disney fans, Bustamante is looking forward to seeing the completed �ilm. “I can’t wait to see it,” he said. “When I saw it, it was a work in progress. The composer, James Newton Howard, is my favorite composer. I love that guy.” “Raya and the Last Dragon” features a voice cast of Kelly Marie Tran, Awkwa�ina, Gemma Chan, Daniel Dae Kim, Sandra Oh, Bene-
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the State of Arizona and MLB guidelines.” “Whether you’re entering the ballpark, enjoying the game in your seat or grabbing food in the concourse, you must practice physical distancing and keep a safe space between you and others.” The A’s promote a nearly identical message. Adams said the HoHoKams will be on the
MUSEUM ���� ���� 4
fans from around the country pour into 10 stadiums to watch their favorite teams practice one of America’s most renowned past-times. The games bring in nearly $644 million annually and support an estimated 6,400 jobs in the Valley, according to Gov. Doug Ducey in a 2019 press release. Arizona spring training started when two teams – the Cleveland Indians and New York Giants (now the San Francisco Giants since 1958) – began traveling to the desert to prepare for the general season and formed what is now called the Cactus League. Today, 15 Major League Baseball teams practice springtime baseball under nearly
dict Wong, Izaac Wang, Thalia Tran, Alan Tudyk, Lucille Soong, Patti Harrison and Ross Butler. “This �ilm was important to me because a lot of my friends are Southeast Asian,” Bustamante said during a Zoom call during which his avatar was Rocket Raccoon. “One of my closest friends is Thai. This is actually a very different �ilm. I don’t think I’ve seen a Southeast Asian Disney movie before. There’s ‘Mulan,’ but with the action and the style—with 3D and computer animation—that’s what I thought was cool. It was a cool action �ilm for sure.” Born and raised in Arizona,
��� DISNEY ���� 16
Dobson High alumnus Dorian Bustamante is part of Walt Disney Animation Studios, bringing his artistry to a number of big productions. (Special to the Tribune)
lookout for fans not following guidelines. “We’re trying to make sure people remain socially distanced, asking people to pull their masks up,” Adams said.” “Ours will be friendly, ‘Can you please wear your mask?’ If people don’t listen and it escalates we’ll go to security.” But will that be enough to keep baseball fans safe? In the last month, the number of people contracting COVID-19 in Maricopa County fell sharply, while the number of people
perfect weather conditions. Mesa houses two of those teams, the Chicago Cubs and the Oakland A’s, which now play at Sloan Park and the Hohokam Stadium near the Arizona 202 freeway. The opening of the exhibit is “just the beginning” of an evolving exhibit that will change on an annual basis, Peters said. This year, the exhibit weaves in storyboards that depict the early days of Arizona spring training at Rendezvous Park – a recreational site that housed some of the state’s �irst spring training games in Mesa – and a documentary highlighting pivotal points of Arizona’s baseball tradition, Ricci said. On the �loor, a mini dugout includes outpost memorabilia from the Cubs and the A’s.
getting vaccinated accelerated. Joshua LaBaer, executive director of ASU’s Biodesign Institute, said there is a �lip side to the good news: “There’s always a concern that people will ease up (and resume) risky behavior,” he said. “They’ll start to go out more and go to events more and that could trigger another surge. Especially as we know these higher transmission variants are around.” Asked if he had concerns about Spring Training, even without a reduced number
As the collection grows, the exhibit will feature the storyboards depicting the role of Jim Crow-era segregation and the Hohokam Nation had in bringing spring training to the Valley, Peters said. “There’s a lot of different things that we can talk about that are little parts of how this came to be so huge in Arizona, not just in Mesa, but in Arizona, for the whole Cactus League,” Peters said. The exhibit will include Cactus League sponsored plaques of spring training Hall of Famers, which includes players and others who have played an integral part in the Arizona spring training experience. “Part of my passion was that I really wanted to start showing these plaques and basically having a Hall of Fame [loca-
of fans allowed, LaBaer said, “It’s really important to remember the fraction of the population that has been vaccinated is really quite small. At least 70 percent of the population has not seen the virus, that means they’re all susceptible.” “Until we get a much bigger portion vaccinated, we continue to urge people not to gather in large groups, not to gather in close proximity to others and certainly not without wearing masks and following guidelines.”
tion] and that’s going to be part of our exhibit,” Peters said. This year’s Cactus League Hall of Fame induction ceremony has been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which usually takes place in February. Anyone interested in donating or loaning items related to spring training may contact the Mesa Historical Museum for future exhibits. The Mesa Historical Museum can be reached at: 480-835-2286. “I hope that it is an exhibit that adults and children really walk away from and really love,” Peters said. The museum is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. Social distancing and masks are required. Information: mesahistoricalmuseum.com.
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
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NEWS
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
Neighbors oppose Riverview development BY TOM SCANLON Tribune Managing Editor
M
onday’s Mesa City Council meeting includes another agenda item likely to be debated: A request by a developer for an of�ice building and garage near Riverview. There are currently four of�ice buildings in the development at Alma School Road & Bass Pro Drive. The �irst two, both two-stories, went up in 2007. Two more were built in 2014 and neighbors complained that the view-
disturbing three-story of�ice buildings received “administrative approval” and they were not informed about it. At a Planning and Zoning Board meeting last week, Economic Development Director Bill Jibjiniak said his department “strongly supports this project.” Neighbors – not so much. The developers, complained West Mountain View residents Robert and Theresa Couglin in an email, “are trying to force through a 3-story of�ice building plus an even larger parking structure. This will eliminate any view of moun-
tains as our street is named Mountain View for a reason. Or do you intend to also rename it Parking Structure View?” Dozens of others submitted similar emails and spoke at the meeting protesting the new buildings. As Joshua Boyle put it, in comparing the developers to a Civil War general who refused to act, “They’ll tell you they want to work with us but they’re not sacri�icing anything.” He and others asked the plans be revised for a two-story of�ice building and underground parking structure. Rich-
ard Gurtler, a resident of the area for 41 years, called the plans by the developer “unrestrained greed.” After listening to complaints by the neighbors, planning board members unanimously approved the developer’s plan. It moves on to city council, with an introduction scheduled Monday and possible action March 15. At a study session last week, Mayor John Giles said he expected neighbors to speak out Monday “unless they want to keep their powder dry and wait until March 15.”
Senior citizens cautiously optimistic with vaccine
BY LEO TOCHTERMAN Cronkite News
C
handler resident Lupe Solis’ prayers were answered when she received her second dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Now the 77-year-old is being cautious and patient, waiting to worship in person again at St. Timothy Catholic Church in Mesa. “Prayer takes up a big part of our life,” Solis said. “We cannot participate in church activities. I will not feel safe now.” Some churches have resumed in-person worship in Arizona, but Solis is still playing it safe after receiving both doses of the P�izer vaccine. Like so many of the nearly 1.3 million Arizonans 65 or older, Solis has adjusted to the safety precautions that have upended life since the onset of the pandemic. With COVID-19 ravaging Arizona’s senior community, many long to return to normal activities but remain apprehensive. More than 11,500 Arizonans 65 or older have died from COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic, with a majority of those deaths in Maricopa County, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services. Now, in accordance with phase 1B of vaccine rollout, the state has been doing what it can to get vaccinations to the older population as quickly as possible. Seniors make up more than half of the 1,027,816 people in the state who have received at least the �irst dose. Pharmaceutical makers Moderna and P�izer have said their vaccines are effective in �ighting off the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 in people displaying symptom-
Chandler residents Saul and Lupe Solis, parishioners at St. Timothy Catholic Church in Mesa, are hopeful that the increasing number of vaccinated people will allow them to return to in-person services. (Kiersten Moss/Cronkite News) atic illness, but it remains unclear how effective the vaccines are in curbing the asymptomatic spread of the virus, the Associated Press reported. Solis and other seniors who have received both doses of the P�izer vaccine are considered to have lowered the risk of catching the symptomatic version of the disease by up to 95 percent, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That level of immunity doesn’t kick in until one to two weeks after the second dose is administered. Solis hasn’t been able to see either of her sisters or their families in El Paso, Texas, in more than a year, and she hasn’t felt safe
traveling during the pandemic given her age. She is hopeful that they can meet after a safe amount of time has passed from vaccinations. “After waiting for a month, we’re probably going to plan on seeing each other somewhere,” Solis said. “We still are going to be very leery and wary, you know, of starting anything new because so far we’ve all been able to stay healthy.” For now, Solis has had to keep touch with them through a weekly family prayer over Zoom, which allows them to stay “together in spirit” and keep in touch. States have differing quarantine protocols for individuals traveling across state
lines, with some states enforcing mandatory quarantines for travelers. Travel rules can be found on the CDC’s website. Dr. Josh LaBaer, executive director and professor of the ASU Biodesign Institute, said vaccinated individuals, even seniors, should be able to safely interact with each other once the vaccine takes full effect. “People who are vaccinated can interact with each other in the way that they did in the past, without masks, you know, pretty much, close quarters,” LaBaer said at a news conference Wednesday. “They’ve been deprived of social interaction for many, many months and I think that’s not healthy for anybody. They ought to be able to get back and interact again.” Dan Martinez, is another recently vaccinated Arizona senior with hopes to reunite with family in the coming months. Martinez, who received his �irst dose of the vaccine on Jan. 23 at State Farm Stadium, is already making plans to visit family after his vaccine kicks in and infection rates drop. “We’ve written down things we want to do in terms of traveling to see family,” Martinez said. “We are going to try to get that done once we get our second shot and things calm down nationally. We want to see case numbers drop, hospitalizations drop, death numbers drop, because we don’t want to take too much of a chance.” Part of the 75-year-old’s caution stems from a recent bout that his daughter living in Washington, D.C., had with COVID-19. She and her husband contracted the coro-
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NEWS
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
SENIORS ���� ���� 14
navirus in January, a few weeks after visiting Arizona for the holidays. “She got very sick. She had temperatures of 104, chills and was very weak,” Martinez said. “She was having pain in her stomach when she moved around. She was lying down in bed. And so she had a rough go of it and she’s only 44 years old.” Martinez is taking proper precautions but hopes he gets to be with loved ones soon. “And so we’re hopeful that being vaccinated will get everybody some protection,” he said. “So we can make a few trips
VAX ���� ���� 8
downward in Mesa. Only one of three metrics remains in the substantial spread category, though cases per 100,000 have dropped from 265 to 156. Positive new test results have dropped to the moderate level and hospital visits with COVID-like
and hug a few people and kind of reminisce about the last year or so.” Gov. Doug Ducey and state health of�icials say they are doing what they can to make such reunions possible. The state has prioritized people 65 or older for vaccination, to varying degrees of success in their rollout. One of the �irst Arizona seniors to receive the COVID-19 vaccine was Dr. Leonard Kirschner, who had completely adapted his lifestyle to the pandemic before getting the �irst dose of the vaccine on his 85th birthday Jan. 16. After being a jet-setter who has clocked more than 200,000 frequent �lyer miles in
symptoms are in the minimal spread level. At a webinar on vaccinations and COVID-19 rates, Joshua LaBaer, executive director of ASU’s Biodesign Institute, struck an optimistic tone, noting “The vaccines are doing a terri�ic job about preventing what we worry about most, severe disease, people going to the hospital and ICU
a year, Kirschner, like many other Arizona seniors, has adopted more of a subdued lifestyle. “I canceled trips to Portland, Seattle, Boston and two trips to Washington, D.C. So I haven’t been on an airplane in almost a year now,” Kirschner said. “It’s been since February of last year. I’ve had years where I’ve had 200,000 air miles traveled. That’s a real change in my lifestyle.” Kirschner, who received his master’s in public health from Harvard in 1968, wasn’t surprised that a pandemic broke out, as he had lived through and studied multiple outbreaks. But he was surprised and encouraged to see the COVID-19 vac-
and death.” Though he stressed vaccines are not 100 percent preventative, “Good news on the vaccine front, vaccines do appear to be effective in preventing severe illnesses.” Mayor John Giles added, "Supply is an issue impacting all communities. We are eager to work with the county and the
cines produced so rapidly. “I was not convinced a year ago that we would have vaccines by the end of 2020 because I know how dif�icult it is to develop the vaccines,” he said. “I’m very optimistic. If you look at the history of epidemics, plagues, and pandemics around the world, they run their course, and then they disappear.” Kirschner was excited to receive a dose for his birthday, maybe the most practical gift possible considering the circumstances of the last year. “I �igured I would try to get a shot on my 85th birthday, which would be Governor Ducey’s birthday present to me,” he said. state and we will continue to advocate for easier access for our residents." For information on vaccines and appointments, visit maricopa.gov/5641/ COVID-19-Vaccine or call 844-542-8201. To schedule an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccine at a state site, visit podvaccine.azdhs.gov or call 602-542-1000.
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DISNEY ���� ���� 12
Bustamante was inspired to pursue an art and �ilm career when he saw Steven Spielberg’s “Jurassic Park” in 1993. He dabbled in 2D animation before turning to CGI. Ten years later, he worked with the director who inspired him. In 2001, when he was 20, he moved to San Francisco to work in the “Star Wars” art department for George Lucas. He said the hours were long, but he learned everything from concept art to �inal compositing. After the “Star Wars” prequels, he was recruited to work with Spielberg on “War of the Worlds” in Los Angeles. Since then, he’s collaborated with James Cameron on “Avatar” and JJ Abrams with “Star Trek.” For “Raya and the Last Dragon,” Bustamante was the layout artist who helped visualize the cinematic look of the animated �ilm by placing digital cameras within a scene. “I had just come off of helping supervise
the last two ‘Avengers’ �ilms—‘In�inity War’ and ‘End Game,’” he said. “There was a lot of choreographed �ight scenes and battles. When it came to ‘Raya and the Last Dragon,’ they were doing it, too. Awesome. I was like, ‘Dude. I’m right in there.’” It seems as if COVID-19 would have thrown a wrench in the production of “Raya and the Last Dragon.” Bustamante said it did not. “Like everyone else in California, we were told, ‘Oh, you guys need to pack up and go,’” he said. “OK, great. We had monitors waiting for us at the end of the day. I put in the car and set up a home of�ice. I was good to go by lunchtime the next morning.” Creatively, however, it was challenging. To ensure accuracy, a Southeast Asian consultant team was on staff. “They would correct us if they put the wrong foot �irst and instances like that,” he said. “So, being in layout and doing all
the camera work, I was just trying to make sure we didn’t have errors. “They would tell us, too, what would be appropriate for this and that. Then we would make adjustments.” After “Star Wars,” “Avengers,” “Avatar” and “Star Trek,” Bustamante remains modest. “I just keep busy,” he said. “I really don’t notice things until I look backward—especially right now. I’ve realized a lot of the stuff I’ve worked on have actually been Disney �ilms. Now that Disney owns Lucas�ilm, I came full circle from where I started to where I’m at right now.”
If You Go...
What: “Raya and the Lost Dragon” Where: on Disney+ and theaters When: Opens Friday, March 5, More info: bit.ly/3sp5q9l
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Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@timespublications.com
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Mesa school’s mural a positive exercise for students BY ALLI CRIPE Tribune Contributor
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ast Valley Academy and Crossroads art teacher LeeAnn Slade saw a massive transformation in her students who participated in a colorful campus mural of their portraits. “When we went remote, it was a bit tricky,” said Slade. “When we got back, I thought we needed a project to help connect the students. There were a lot of feelings of isolation or depression.” EVA and Crossroads serve students from 7th-12th grade on the same campus. When classes resumed in mid-January, Slade took photographs of each student. She then assigned them the tricky task of picking a small number of classmates to celebrate the student body’s diversity. “We wanted six students who appeared on the mural to represent everyone else,” explained Slade. “I feel like most people, when they see the mural, they can’t believe they’re actually students because they’re really cool looking kids.” Slade and the students deliberated quite a bit on who should appear on the mural. When Slade picked student Gabriel Ikener, he couldn’t believe it. “He was just bewildered,” Slade said. “He’s a really shy dude.” Slade and her classmates �irst came up with the idea for the background, playing with design and color. They picked a rainbow theme because it symbolized the diversity of the student population and the idea that every skin shade has value. According to Slade, the purpose of the rainbow also extended to the students’ different backgrounds. Some have a criminal record and Slade wanted them to feel included. Before they could start, they needed a sponsor – which Slade said took some time perhaps because of �inancial issues. “I took things into my own hands and went to Home Depot,” Slade said. She showed the Home Depot manager an image of the idea and was given a $100 gift card toward paint. “Then it just wasn’t
Students at East Valley Academy and Crossroads who participated in the mural project include, from left: Top row: Gabriel Ikener, teacher Leeann Slade, Ruben Gonzales, Aimee Muñoz and Collins Makini; bottom: Alex Wood and Bre Bracewell. (Pablo Robles/Tribune) enough, so I contacted the CEO of Risas.” Jeff Adams, the CEO of Risas Dental and Braces, has a phenomenal philanthropic reputation. In one example last year, Risas offered free dentistry at a speci�ic time slot on Labor Day, and ended up giving away $700,000 worth of dentistry in �ive hours. “It took me about a half a second to yes,” Adams said. “Those kids are really talented.” Adams wrote a check and, with additional funding from the website Donors
Choose, Slade and the students were ready to begin painting last October. “It was two weeks of solid painting,” said Slade. “It was a really unifying feature on campus because the students who weren’t even in art would come by and say, ‘Can I help?’” Slade said that at �irst, she received some negative criticism from faculty who thought the students’ portraits looked too severe or morose. “I just wanted them to be totally natural
Gabriel Ikener and Aimee Muñoz were two of the students whose portraits appear on the mural at East Valley Academy and Crossroads. (Pablo Robles/Tribune Staff)
and not construct them into a fake happy mural,” said Slade who ultimately saw a happy transformation in her students. When Kaiya Love, an African-American student, saw a Facebook post from Mesa Public Schools about their mural, Slade said she was in tears. “‘I can’t believe I’ve come this far,’” Love posted on her Facebook page, according to Slade. She said that Aimee Muñoz, 18, another student muralist whose portrait shows her �lashing a big smile, had spent years eating lunch in Slade’s classroom with her friends and described it as the “safest place” on campus. “I call her ‘mom,’” said Muñoz. “Leeann gives me that mothering personality.” During lunch, Muñoz would discuss her weekend with Slade or ask for life advice. When Slade told her about the art project, Muñoz said she became “stoked.” “We were all excited to work on it,” said Muñoz. “We went out every day and during lunch and during passion periods. We’d all go out and paint.” Muñoz and her classmates even attracted attention from TV news channels on the positivity of their project in the midst of the coronavirus. Muñoz said she was disheartened to see some negative comments on social media. “Obviously people are gonna hate, but it just sucks,” said Muñoz. “People were saying things like, ‘How is it diversity if there’s no white kids?’” Muñoz said the comments are hurtful and full of judgment about the students. Muñoz called those statements untrue and stressed that she and her schoolmates worked hard to complete the mural to add a bit of positivity to the world. “We’re the students who needed more help or we didn’t go to school because we had family issues,” said Muñoz. “Whatever the reason, we aren’t bad students. We are great in our way,” she added. “There are students who’re working hard even when COVID-19 is happening and they’re not giving up.”
COMMUNITY
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
Mesa Library ‘author in residence’ a former CEO BY CASEY FLANAGAN Tribune Staff Writer
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ocal writers looking to �ine-tune their work can turn to Mesa Public Library’s ‘Writer in Residence’ program that author and retired Arizona Science Center CEO Sheila Grinell will host through April. Grinell, whose newfound love for creative writing comes after years spent as the Science Center’s founding CEO, hosts free one-on-one consultations and larger workshops in partnership with the library. The author of “The Contract” and “Appetite,” both products of a switch to �iction writing, Grinell said one bene�it of starting to write later in life has been that “a lot of the things I learned in my �irst career applied” – such as self-con�idence, sticking to a time budget, taking chances and knowing when to ask for help. The biggest challenge, Grinell, 65, said, is that life’s too short and that she thinks of life in “�ive-year clumps.”. “I wish I had 25 �ive-year clumps in front of me instead of just a few,” she said. “Each book would get deeper, and better, and more territory to explore, and I’d like to keep doing that forever.” She advises aspiring writers to simply “practice” and “start.” She said practice must be disciplined.
SHEILA GRINELL
“You need to set aside the time and just work at it – I’d say one hour a day for 21 days to get yourself going.” Grinell said the landscape for publishing works nowadays is a spectrum, ranging from major publications to simple online posts. Social media is important to get noticed. “These days, if you’re not Steven King, you need to support your published work with a marketing campaign,” Grinell said,
adding that agents or publishers will almost certainly ask a writer what their platform is. In her “Social Media for Writers” workshop next month, Grinell said she will help writers “conceive of what their platform is, and ways to support it through social media.” Grinell said that other than the Writer in Residence program, she is working on her third novel. She said the novel is in early stages and doesn’t have a title yet, but it is set in Phoenix in the near future, after the COVID-19 pandemic has passed. “I’m making some assumptions about how this all works out.” Grinell said. “They are assumptions. I sure hope I’m right, otherwise I would have to do a lot of revisions.” Her �irst book, “Appetite,” revolves around the family tensions that arise when an American girl returns home from India with a young guru she intends to marry. “The Contract” is about a harddriving designer who seeks acclaim by developing a Middle Eastern museum only to discover the project’s real value is not what she imagined/ Mesa Public Library’s ‘Writer in Residence’ program has been in place since 2016, according to Red Mountain Librarian Stephanie Foster. The program is funded by the Arizona State Library Archives and Records Department, Foster said. “I was just amazed when we �irst started
Mesa group launches drive for Buffalo Soldiers statue at Capitol TRIBUNE NEWS STAFF
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mesa organization has launched a drive to raise $650,000 for a First African American Buffalo Soldiers Arizona Territory Monument at the Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza in the State Capitol complex. Commander Fred Marable and Deputy Commander Michelle London-Marable said the monument would give some long-needed recognition to “the rich cultural history of the Buffalo Soldiers 9th and 10th Cavalry and 24th and 25th Infantry. The Buffalo Soldiers were Afri-
can American Soldiers who served on the Western Frontier following the Civil War. Founded as a nonpro�it in 2007, the Buffalo Soldiers of the Arizona Territory tries to keep alive the memory of these soldiers, who were active in territorial Arizona from 1866 to 1902. “The history of the 9th and 10th Cavalry regiments is not only a part of the great military tradition of the United States but of the history of Black accomplishment. It is a distinct and unique history,” wrote Walter Hill, an archivist with the National Archives and Records Administration.
In the early years, the Buffalo Soldiers’ ranks were made up of former slaves who fought in the Civil War. “The struggle for stability and prosperity in an America they were once enslaved to continue throughout their time in the military,” the Marables said in a release. “Buffalo Soldiers mapped out what would become major highways, protected railroad lines, mail carriers, gold
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This is the model of the proposed memorial honoring the Buffalo Soldiers. (Special to the Tribune)
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doing this, because there is really a huge local writer community, and they’re very enthusiastic, and they’re really willing and ready to participate in these kinds of programs,” Foster said. Foster said Grinell and other authors participating in the program write at the library, which she said helps them because it “allows them to relate to people that are working on their own writing.” Grinell is “very pleasant to work with,” Foster added. “I’m proud to have her as one of our writers in residence.” Grinell said her most recent book, “The Contract,” will be on sale as an E-book for 99 cents through March 7 on all major platforms. Her consultations and workshops are virtual for now and are available through Zoom, Skype or a phone call, Grinell said. She said she hopes to begin in-person consultations by mid-March, or after she has received the COVID-19 vaccine. Other workshops Grinell will host at Mesa Public Library include “Many Paths to Publication” on March 12 and “Social Media for Writers” on March 27, her website said. Grinell offers 30-minute consultations 2-4 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Aspiring writers interested in the program can register by clicking the event link at events.mesalibrary.org.
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THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
Hospice social workers bring joy to patients BY LIN SUE COONEY Guest Writer
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on Haholy had given up on a motor scooter, since his insurance didn’t cover it. His Hospice of the Valley social worker Kim Boersema realized how sad that made him. The 70-year-old had endured a lot – he had lost his wife and was struggling with serious illnesses that severely affected his mobility and Kim knew a scooter would change his life. As soon as one was donated to one of our �ive White Dove Thrift Shoppes, she snatched it up. Hospice of the Valley picked up the tab and Kim surprised Ron with the gift of independence. Now, he takes his dog for walks (and rides), visits friends and does his own grocery shopping. “I felt like a new person!” he said. It’s only �itting that the theme of 2021’s Social Work Month in March, is “Social Workers Are Essential.” At Hospice of the Valley, about 100 medical social workers assist patients, families and caregivers with sensitive end-of-life conversations and advance care planning; link them to social and community resources they didn’t know even existed; and provide emotional support at a most challenging time. “Living with a chronic or terminal illness brings a multitude of changes and stressors,” said Cheri Rednour, a Hospice of the Valley clinical resource social worker.
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mines and settlers moving west.” Sent to secure and develop the uncharted, hostile territory of the west, they were named by Native Americans, who were recorded as saying “They fought like the buffalo. Their hair was curly like the buffalo. Their skin as dark and black like the buffalo and they had the heart of a buffalo,” according to Fred Marable. The soldiers helped developed small settlements that would grow into towns and cities – places that did not welcome them. “They had racism to face,” Marable said. “They were considered not really soldiers. When they went into the military, it took a long time before they even got uniforms.
Michelle Bales, a Hospice of the Valley social worker, works mainly with patients suffering dementia. (Courtesy Hospice of the Valley) “We understand how illness impacts all facets of someone’s life and we focus on meeting all those needs — emotional, physical, relational, spiritual, cultural and practical.” When the pandemic hit Arizona early last year, social workers quickly adapted to provide telehealth support via phone, video or window visits to help family members see and hear their loved ones when health restrictions kept them apart. Social workers feel especially rewarded when they help ful�ill their patients’ dreams. “There is a misperception that life pauses or stops when you come on hospice. It’s
When they went in, when they left home that is what they wore when they went into battle. So, it took a while.” “To look at what these men did and what they stood for from slavery all the way up to right now. How they stood fast when trouble came. How they stood fast when racism came. How they stood fast at any part of that. We have a great foundation to stand on,” Marable said. Tax-deductible donations can be made at buffalosoldiersazterritorymonument. com. Checks payable to: Buffalo Soldiers AZ Territory Monument can be sent to Address: P.O. Box 20883, Mesa, Arizona 85277-0883. Information: mlondon3@cox.net or 480-415-5439.
exactly the opposite. We want to bring life into the home,” said Erin Butler, a clinical resource social worker. When Erin learned that 103-year-old Tressie Jenning’s one life regret was never riding on a train, she cooked up a solution for her bed-bound hospice patient: a virtual ride on the light rail. Valley Metro created a video from Tressie’s point of view, as if she were buying a ticket, looking out the window and greeting passengers on the train. Tressie, her daughter and caregiver watched the adventure on Erin’s laptop. “It was magical! Seeing Tressie smile was a gift to me,” Erin said.
Ron Davis was on cloud nine after his social worker, Andrea Toczek, set up a longed-for helicopter ride out of Mesa’s Falcon Field Airport, with help from DreamCatchers and Canyon State Aero. “I’m not used to people doing stuff like this for me,” he gushed, bashfully. “Andrea is great, nothing is impossible for her. I was just amazed!” Both Kim and Michelle Bales were family caregivers whose �irsthand experiences inspired them to become medical social workers. “I am now in a position to help others like me when the needs are overwhelming,” said Kim, a former teacher. “The experience is unique for each person, but the feeling of hope and support when a Hospice of the Valley care team came to my home was amazing. I think that feeling is universal to all of our patients.” Michelle specializes in dementia care. She enjoys showing family caregivers how to communicate with their loved ones — using favorite foods, mechanical dogs and cats, music therapy, baby dolls and stimulating tactile objects. “When a connection occurs, we have nonverbal patients speaking, sad patients smiling, and families thrilled to have a new positive way to interact and create memories!” Michelle said. “I feel so fortunate to help people live well with dementia.” Lin Sue Cooney is director of community engagement at Hospice of the Valley. Information: 602-530-6900 or hov. org.
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Downtown Mesa business specializes in vintage Arizona BY MELODY BIRKETT Tribune Contributor
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ucked in the heart of downtown Mesa is a store whose owner looks for vintage Arizona. “I do mid-century modern and ‘Boho,’ or Bohemian,” owner Cristin Clark said of Buckhorn Vintage at 138 W. Main St. She specializes in vintage furniture, clothing and decor from the 1950s through the 70s, although she added, “I do some clothing from the 80s and 90s but mostly 60s and 70s.” “I try to do high-quality,” Clark said. “All of my furniture my brother and my dad restore. If a piece of furniture needs work, we’ll restore it back to its original quality.” Most of the items, including paintings and knick-knacks, Clark �inds
in Arizona. “I pretty much hunt at least four times a week,” she said, explaining her treasure hunts include everything from estate sales and thrift shops to online marketplaces. Her standard is “Whatever catches my eye.” “I just buy what I like,” she explained. “If it’s something I don’t like, I don’t buy it.” Among the more popular items are anything wicker or rattan and midcentury modern dressers and buffets. “I feel like I’m unique because I curate it,” explained Clark. “A lot of people can’t picture an item in their home so I try to stage it and set it up so it kind of gives them an idea of what it could look like in their place.” Customers �ind items at all price ranges.
Furniture runs $200 and up, although Clark said, “I try to keep it affordable for people.” Clark, who worked in healthcare before opening the store four years ago, said her business re�lects her passion for stuff no longer in style. “I’ve always been a picker since I was a kid,” she said. “I remember �inding odd vintage things and keeping them for myself. It’s just kind of a passion. I’ve always loved vintage things. I just fell into this.” “It all has come into play. All of the jobs I’ve done lead me up until this
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Cristin Clark goes treasure hunting several days a week for items for her Buckhorn Vintage store in downtown Mesa. (Special to the Tribune)
Local Pop Co. brings dessert to the desert BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Tribube Staff Writer
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lake Bigelow was visiting family in Texas, where a local popsicle company was based. It delivered pops and sold them at farmers markets. He did something simple. He brought dessert to the desert. “They’re super delicious popsicles,” said Heather Lackey, who works for the Gilbert-based business. “They’re not frozen, sugary ice popsicles that you can buy at the store. They’re cream based. They’re really gourmet. People call them boujee popsicles.” Local Pop Co. began selling its frozen treats in 2017 at the Gilbert Farmers Market on Saturdays and, as Lackey said, it “spiraled from there.” “His mission is a pop for everyone,” she
Heather Lackey, Blake Bigelow and Rick Solares are three of the 10 employees at Gilbert-based Local Pop Co., which sells and delivers cream-based popsicles. (Pablo Robles/Staff Photographer) said. “He wants to cater to adults, the inner child, families and kids. He started
adding vegan, gluten free and dairy free, so we can truly have a pop for everyone.”
The 10-employee, delivery-only company has four core �lavors that it offers all year — strawberries and cream, Oreos and cream, chocolate fudge and birthday cake. It has also sold a double-stuff fudge with Oreos and a root beer �loat. “Every couple of months we roll our seasonal ones,” she said. “We had Christmas ones just for December.” The popsicles are $3.99 a piece with an eight-pop minimum. A four-piece family pack is in the works. Local Pop Co. delivers to ZIP codes in Ahwatukee, Apache Junction, Avondale, Carefree, Cave Creek, Chandler, Fountain Hills, Gilbert, Glendale, Gold Canyon, Laveen, Mesa, Paradise Valley, Peoria, Phoenix, Queen Creek, Rio Verde, Scottsdale and Tempe. Delivery is free; same-day delivery
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THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
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point. My customer service, the thrifting, the hunting, the picking, just the eye for all things.” Clark, a Mesa native who still lives in the city, said she hopes one day to open a second location, though she added, “It’s just �inding the manpower to do it plus �inding the things to �ill another location sounds a little stressful.” While the pandemic left some business owners struggling, Clark said she did not feel the pinch. “My customers are awesome. I feel like a lot of people came out and showed their support during that whole pandemic. Even when we had to close, I was operating under appointment only so I had private shop- Buckhorn Vintage is filled to the rafters with unique ping. People were coming out.” pieces reflecting Arizona's mid-century tastes in home For anyone who isn’t into her decor. (Special to the Tribune) preferences in everything from décor to clothing, Clark has some advice. that same piece. “Buy vintage,” she said. “These are qual“Vintage is one-of-a-kind. Even with ity pieces that have been around. It’s sus- clothing, if you want a statement piece, tainable. It’s saving things from going into people aren’t going to have the same out�it.” a land�ill. They’ll hold up forever. You’re The shop is open noon-5 p.m. Wednesgetting unique, quality pieces. You can go day-Saturday and noon-3 p.m. Sundays. to these big box stores and buy this piece Information: Facebook/buckhorn vinbut guess what? Five other people have tage or 602-865-9702.
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with special messages—You’re Cute, Be Mine, Happy Birthday, Congratulations, I Love U, We Miss U and Great Job. “We had girls order them for a bachelorette party,” she added.
if they’re ordered before 5 p.m. On Feb. 1, Local Pop Co. started a sixmonth campaign to honor �irst responders with discounts. Teachers will follow later this year. “They’re quite large popsicles,” she said. “They don’t become freezer burned. It tastes like ice cream on a stick. They’re creamy, dense and rich. They’re getting their value.” Local Pop Co. Strawberries and cream and Oreos and cream are two standard popsicles offers sticks Gilbert-based Local Pop Co. sells. (Pablo Robles/Staff Photographer)
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THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
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Donovan McNabb shares experiences with fellow QBs BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Tribune Staff Writer
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ootball legend Donovan McNabb wants to improve the lives of college and high school quarterbacks. Through the nonpro�it QB Legacy, the Queen Creek resident prepares the athletes for life after football, the ups and downs of the game and how to handle adversity and success. “We want to build leaders and CEOs,” said McNabb, who serves as its president. “We want our quarterbacks to be in front of a board room and have control. That’s team meeting rooms and in the board room. But it is not always about football. We want them to be well prepared for what life throws at you.” To qualify for membership in QB Legacy, one must have played quarterback for a college program in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I, II, or III, the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) or the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA). McNabb played 13 years in the NFL and was the �irst NFL quarterback to throw for more than 30 touchdowns and fewer than 10 interceptions in a season. His parents prepared him for football and life afterward. His father, Sam, a retired electrical engineer, and his mother, Wilma, a registered nurse, have served as president of the Professional Football Players Fathers Association and Professional Football Players Mothers Association, respectively. “My goal after football was to go right into TV,” said McNabb, who quarterbacked for Philadelphia, Minnesota and Washington. “I was well prepared to go from in front of the camera to behind the camera. That was second nature to me. “When you’re a 19-, 20- or 21-year-old kid, you have to handle the ins and outs of professionalism,” he said. “Luckily, I had people in my corner who I could relate to and talk to.”
to work hard and grind hard to get the results you want; and four, make sure you’re happy.” His mom, Wilma, however, is the joker in the family, he said. “She’s one of those sarcastic people who said what’s on her mind,” McNabb said. You learn to have tough skin with my mom. Her kids are very important to her, though. She taught Donovan McNabb has been coming to Arizona since he became a all of her kids Philadelphiav Eagle quarterback 20 years ago and now he makes the East to overcome Valley his home. (Special to the Tribune) adversity For McNabb, that was Sam. and take constructive criticism.” “My dad obviously worked hard,” McNabb shares his knowledge with the McNabb said. “He never played pro- high school athletes he coaches, includfessionally, he never played Division 1 ing his children – daughter Alexis, twins sports. He always found �ind an answer Sariah and Donovan Jr., and son Devin for me. I could lean on him for advice or James. words of wisdom.” “It’s important for all of us, not just forQuarterbacks, McNabb said, should mer athletes, to learn how to handle trials never allow anyone from the outside to and tribulations,” he said. “A word here dictate a future path. and there for any youth can really change “Be goal oriented and be determined,” their life. “We all have tough times in life. Not evMcNabb said. “Understand the tough times are going to happen. The only thing erybody shows it. You never know how that really matters is your happiness. some people may be feeling. If you can That was something, for me, that I con- provide a word or two here or there, and tinue to cherish to this day. I understand a smile or two, that could change their there are, one, tough times; two, no one lives.” McNabb moved to the Valley about 20 in the world is perfect; three, continue
years ago. He began spending time here in 1999 after he was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles. “I’ve been coming here ever since,” he said. “If it was a ‘bye’ week or during the off season, I’d visit the Valley. Four years in, I decided to purchase a home here. It was my getaway.” He works out in Discovery Park or at Payne Junior High School. McNabb also spends time coaching softball and girls basketball, the sports played by his daughters. His sons participate in a plethora of activities, including �lag football, soccer, cross country, basketball and football. He stressed he wants his children to build an identity for themselves, through a strong work ethic, passion, determination and goal setting. Even though he’s on a strict diet, McNabb frequents restaurants around the Valley. He loves Italian, but, with his diet, he can’t have very much. “As far as restaurants are concerned, in the Valley I love Mastro’s, Dominick’s, Steak 44 and my whole family loves sushi,” he adds. “It’s a mix of everything.” When McNabb looks back, he can’t believe it’s been nine seasons since he retired. “When I look back on the relationships I built, some of the guys are still playing, like the Tom Bradys or the Drew Breeses and some of the other guys I competed against,” he said. “It’s an honor and one in which your kids see.” McNabb hopes to start a Phoenix QB Legacy franchise and train athletes in other positions. He also wants to be a part of a WNBA franchise. His niece, Kia Nurse, is a professional basketball player for the New York Liberty. Right now, however, he’s providing “excitement” for �irst responders by delivering pizzas to them and giving gift cards to families suffering through the COVID-19 pandemic. “I want to look back on it and realize I’ve done something to try to help put someone on a positive path,” he said.
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THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
Iowa State football �inds EV a fertile �ield BY ZACH ALVIRA Tribune Sports Editor
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he pipeline between Arizona and Iowa State University continues to be built year after year in the form of national football recruits. Four years ago, it was Perry quarterback Brock Purdy who chose the Cyclones over the likes of Alabama and Arizona State. He was joined by Deer Valley offensive tackle Joey Ramos and later by his former teammate, Perry wide receiver D’Shayne James and Desert Ridge long snapper Koby Hathcock. The four were part of Iowa State’s best season in program history in 2020-21, which culminated with a second-place �inish in the Big 12 Conference and Fiesta Bowl win in Glendale. The buzz in Ames surrounding the football team, especially with Purdy at quarterback, has opened the �lood gates for other Arizona recruits to target Iowa State as a potential landing spot. And that can be directly attributed to Chandler-native and Iowa State tight ends coach Taylor Mouser. “Growing up in Arizona, I remember going to some of those Fiesta Bowl games. That was the premier game to me,” Mouser said. “To be able to come back to Arizona and win the Fiesta Bowl in front of my friends and family and to bring a BCS trophy to Iowa State, it’s amazing.” Mouser grew up in the East Valley and played football for Basha High School. He later went on to play for Adams State, a Division II school in Colorado. He dreamed of an opportunity to become a coach at the college ranks and was able to become a graduate assistant wide receiver coach at Toledo under then-coach Matt Campbell. Mouser followed Campbell to Iowa State in 2015 where he became the offensive quality control coach and just recently, the tight ends coach. From early on at Iowa State, Campbell and the rest of the staff relied on him for recruiting insight, especially as it related to Arizona. “I think I’m certainly a point of reference for some guys,” Mouser said. “Now going into our sixth year, I’ve been able to get Campbell out there a few times with Brock, D’Shayne,
“Everyone wants to play for someone they feel like they can connect with and I think that was a big factor into my decision to play for him.” It’s that same connection that led to Chandler running back Eli Sanders’ signing with Iowa State earlier this month. OrigiIowa State tight ends coach and Chandler-native Taylor Mouser nally committed to Boise has been instrumental in the Cyclones’ recruitment of Arizona State, Sanders chose the athletes, as the roster next season will have six players from the Cyclones over the Broncos, state, five of which from the East Valley. (Courtesy Iowa State Iowa and San Diego State. University Athletics) While not the direct Koby, Joey, he’s got a good feeling now for point of contact, “Mouse” — as he has with the rest — helped put Sanders on the Cywhat football is like there in Arizona. “Arizona isn’t in the elementary phase clones’ radar. of recruiting anymore. I no longer have to Mouser attributes some of Iowa State’s convince these guys to watch �ilm on play- success in Arizona with his ability to coners from there.” nect on a personal level. Being from the When the Cyclones searched for a quar- area, it’s not uncommon for him to ask the terback to be part of their 2018 signing player’s favorite menu item at local taco class, Mouser put Purdy on their radar. An shop Los Favoritos. He asks about Chanundersized and under recruited quarter- dler Fashion Center and other shopping esback at the time, Mouser, Campbell and tablishments he frequently visited himself other coaches visited Purdy at his East when he was their age. Valley home ahead of the February signHe builds a connection with the players ing period. The coaches didn’t make it past that goes well beyond the X’s and O’s of the Purdy’s driveway after the meeting before game. Though his ability to do that isn’t Alabama called with an offer. surprising to most. Even in high school he Nonetheless, Purdy signed with Iowa never shied away from conversation. State, kickstarting what has since led to �ive others playing their college careers in Ames with two more on the way as part of the 2021 class. Among the 2021 class is Mountain Pointe tight end Kevin Sawitzke. He had direct contact with Mouser, who was elevated to Iowa State’s tight ends coach. Sawitzke was forced to meet his future coach virtually due to the pandemic, but he felt a connection right away. “The �irst phone call we had we talked about Arizona and the way life is compared to Iowa,” Sawitzke said. “It felt good talking to some- Among the six recruits on next year’s Iowa State rosone who knows where I’m from and ter is Desert Ridge alum Koby Hathcock, who started how things are in Arizona. There at long snapper for the Cyclones last year. (Tribune File Photo) was an instant connection.
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“He was a kid you enjoyed talking to and could carry out a conversation with him as a coach,” said Collin Bottrill, who coached Mouser at Basha and is now on Chandler’s varsity football staff. “He’s been instrumental in putting Iowa State off the map and that’s what I told him when he was promoted to tight ends coach. He was a big part of getting Eli Sanders to commit to Iowa State. “Now with his connections, he’s opening up that pipeline from Arizona to Iowa State.” Before the pandemic, home visits were an essential aspect of recruiting. It allows coaches to get a feel for who a player is off the �ield, while also persuading parents their respective program is a good �it for their son. Just as he did with Purdy, Mouser aimed to make a good impression with Koby Hathcock in 2019. Though, familiarity with his father, Jeremy, helped. “Taylor is the one who got the ball rolling in Arizona,” Jeremy Hathcock said. “Mouse played with one of my former players in college, so when we went to Iowa on Koby’s of�icial visit we hung out with him. “He’s one of the most chill guys I’ve ever met, and he just knows how to connect with kids.” Mouser’s impact in Arizona and especially the East Valley is far from over. Just in the last two weeks he and the Iowa State staff have extended scholarship offers to other players, including Desert Ridge defensive end Lance Holtzclaw and a pair of from his Alma mater, Basha quarterback Demond Williams III and linebacker Wyatt Milkovich. The pipeline, while in good standing, is still far from �inished. Mouser aims to continue building Iowa State’s roster with local recruits sprinkled in. And with Iowa State projected to only improve next season with six Arizona natives on the roster, there’s no telling how big the pipeline could grow. “I think coach Mouser has done a great job of �inding guys in Arizona and with that connection, I feel like it is putting Iowa State on the map,” Sawitzke said. “I feel like the Iowa State-Arizona pipeline can be huge. “I can’t wait to compete and grow as a player and as an athlete. I can’t wait to get out there and start working.”
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Persian New Year fest a bit different this year BY KRISTINE CANNON GetOut Staff Writer
F
or the past couple years, more than 5,000 people have swarmed the Scottsdale Waterfront over the course of seven hours in early March for one purpose: to celebrate the Persian New Year, or Nowruz. But this year, the founders of the Persian New Year Festival nonpro�it made the dif�icult decision to replace the multifaceted festival with an interactive art exhibition that allows for social distancing and prevents crowding amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “We are thrilled to be able to still celebrate the Persian New Year in a way that allows the public to remain safe and socially distanced during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Persian New Year Festival Co-Founder Lawdan Shojaee. “The art installations are a beautiful way for our community to learn more about Persian culture and tradition while enjoying a safe and responsible experience.” This year’s free Persian New Year Festival takes place at the Marshall Way Bridge at the Scottsdale Waterfront on March 7 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Here, attendees will have the opportunity to view the largest “haftseen” art installation in Arizona’s history. An arrangement traditionally displayed during the celebration of Nowruz, a haftseen typically boasts seven symbolic items representing the beginning of spring. “The haftseen is a symbol of the Persian New Year, just like the Christmas tree is to Christmas,” explained Shideh Doerr, festival co-founder. Local artist Mahsa Page’s art installation will feature three different takes on the haftseen, with one installation featuring backdrops from a trio of other local artists. “I’m passionate about promoting social
Helping to organize the annual Persian New Year Festival slated for March 7 are, from left, Poupak Tabakkoli, Mahsa Page and Nicky Hedayatzadeh. (Pablo Robles/GetOut Staff Photographer) and cultural awareness, which is why the haftseen art installations spoke to me,” said Page. “Growing up in Iran, I’m thrilled to be able to share more about the culture with our Arizona community.” According to Page, the haftseen art installation is a staggering 26-feet long and comprises three large tables. She spent a few days brainstorming how to showcase the “diverse, lively, and effervescent” Persian culture to the community. “When the organizer approached me for collaboration on the concept idea for this year’s festival, my mind glided towards silent movies, pantomime, childhood memories and stories,” Page said. The Persian New Year Festival nonpro�it, in partnership with the City of Scottsdale, chose Page due to her extensive, 20-year experience in the design, art and architectural history. Plus, she took part in last year’s festival, creating a high-end fashion show that fea-
tured other local Persian and Middle Eastern designers. “Her [art] represents the Persian culture so well, and it doesn’t matter if you’re a liberal, if you’re a fundamentalist, if you’re conservative, her artwork speaks to you and it’s beautiful. It’s moving, it’s �luid; it’s one of a kind, it really is,” Doerr said. The installation will move to the Scottsdale Quarter on March 8 and available for viewing the rest of the month. “The celebration of the Persian New Year [is] giving people hope to put the bad stuff behind us and focus on the good going forward and the beginning of the new year and new beginnings,” Doerr said. The nonpro�it’s �irst expansion into the Quarter allows for increased exposure to shoppers who may have otherwise never attended or celebrated the Persian New Year Festival. “It allows us to reach out, touch more people ... and learn about our culture and what the Persian New Year is all about,”
Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@timespublications.com
Doerr said. “These annual spring Persian Festivals helps our society interact with the local community to share the colorful customs of our friendly people and the love that we have for other cultures of all ages, all helping to make our collective communities a better place,” Page added. Dating back thousands of years, the Nowruz is celebrated by millions of people worldwide, but it wasn’t until 2010 that the United Nations formally recognized it as an international holiday. Historically, the festival is a very interactive, lively one, �illed with food, music, dance, theater, and art from vendors throughout the state. But this year, the nonpro�it pivoted in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Art installation traf�ic will be directed to �low in a one-way direction, hand sanitizing stations will be present and masks will be required. “We didn’t want it to be something where people could walk through and sit and touch; we wanted it to be something that we can keep people moving along,” Doerr said. While the nonpro�it is unable to donate proceeds to the Ivy Brain Tumor Center at the Barrow Neurological Institute due to lack of sponsors and vendors, it will still have a presence at the event. “We will showcase them through the festival and help promote them and raise awareness and have them be a part of the festival,” Doerr said.
If You Go...
What: Persian New Year Festival Where: 4420 N. Scottsdale Road When: March 7, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Free Info: persiannewyearfestival.org
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King Crossword ACROSS 1 4 8 12 13 14 15 16 18 20 21 24 28 32 33 34 36 37 39 41 43 44 46 50 55 56 57 58 59 60 61
June honoree Say it’s so Pretzel topper Past Travel permit Done with Brock of baseball Alaskan city Heron’s kin Army address Dalai -Slow, in music Right to vote Cash advance 201, in old Rome Heat to near boiling GOP org. Priestly vestments Cheap ride section “Yum!” Novelist Hunter Steal from Cowboy’s workplace Spur on Tic-tac-toe win Nerd’s kin Hostels Hooting bird Big wind Track tipster Carrier to Amsterdam
DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 17 19 22 23 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 35 38 40 42 45 47
48 49 50 51
Batman’s hood Actress Celeste Early bird? PBS funder
52 Cartoon frame 53 Yucatan year 54 Wildebeest
Sudoku
Valley Awestruck Gloomy Online images Sportscaster Scully Computer key Stadium cheers Reddish-brown horse “Selma” director DuVernay Table support Three, in Rome Texas tea Sprite PC alternatives Marble type Asta’s feeder Tart flavor As soon as “Shoo!” Bruins’ sch. Little lies Mountain ht. Most loved Painter’s motion Genetic letters Thee Telly watcher Cranny
PUZZLES ANSWERS on page 18
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Obituaries Richard Michael Teater
Obituaries Lyn Mack Lyn Mack, 67, of Mesa passed away suddenly from acute peritonitis on Friday, January 29, 2021. Lyn was born in New Haven, CT on Oct. 12, 1953. She spent her childhood in the state, mostly in the Town of Weston in Fairfield County. She attended school in Weston, and studied at The National Academy of Hairdressing in Norwalk, CT, receiving her state license for cosmetology in 1972. She lived in Georgetown, Danbury, Weston, and New Haven, CT. In Weston she met Larry Gene Welty, a computer programmer with Wiltek Corp. of Norwalk; they married in 1989. They made their home in New Haven and Fairfield; after several years they moved to Minnesota. In 2015 Lyn and Larry relocated to Mesa. Lyn was artistically gifted: she painted, made small sculptures in a variety of media, and enjoyed many different crafts in addition to cooking and decorating. She took classes and workshops at the City of Mesa Downtown Senior Center, and maintained a patio cactus garden at her home. For those who knew Lyn, she had a heart of gold, spoke softly and kindly, and loved living her life. Although she had her ups and downs, she worked hard and never stopped loving and caring for others, including many life-long friends and her family. She will be sorely missed. Lyn was predeceased by her parents, Jean Baker Mack and Edward Beach Mack of Mesa. Survivors are her partner Larry Welty and her sisters, Jan Mack Northcutt and Wendy Mack Allred, all of Mesa; an aunt and cousins, all of Phoenix. Sign the Guestbook at: obituaries.EastValleyTribune.com
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Richard M. "Dick" Teater died Saturday, 13th of February at his home in Sun Lakes, AZ. He was 72 years old. He is survived by his wife, Pranee "Dang" Teater, of 48 years; Sons Thomas Nigel Teater and Austin Richard Teater; Sister Susan Martin, and Brother Paul Teater. Dick was born to Max and Joyce Teater in Grinnell, IA and was raised in Des Moines, IA, graduating from Lincoln High School. He achieved Eagle Scout, swam on the high school Swim Team, and was appointed to the US Naval Academy. He graduated with a BS (Mechanical Engineering), was commissioned an Ensign in the US Navy Civil Engineer Corps, and after assignments in the Navy Seabees, attended Purdue University where he received his MS (Construction Management). He then served assignments in Public Works and Force Civil Engineering for the Navy in San Diego, CA. After leaving the Navy, he pursued a career in international engineering and construction working for Holmes and Narver, Inc. and Fluor Corporation, rising to Group President. His career took him to seven continents. Upon leaving his corporate career, he purchased Big J Enterprises (a mechanical contractor) in Albuquerque, NM where he continued ownership until retirement in 2013. During his career, he served on the Purdue Engineering Visitors Council and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers International Advisory Board. While business owner in Albuquerque, he served on the Boards of the Chamber of Commerce, Association of Commerce and Industry, Heart Association, United Way, Bank of Albuquerque, Associated Builders and Contractors, Association of General Contractors and Presbyterian Healthcare System. After five years as snowbirds, he and Dang settled in Sun Lakes, AZ. His interests included riding his motorcycle, fishing, BBQ and playing golf. Contact: dangteater@gmail.com Sign the Guestbook at: obituaries.EastValleyTribune.com
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Small Man!” Decks • Tile • More! ✔ Kitchens 9 199 ce Sin rk Wo y alit rdable, Qu ✔ Bathrooms BSMALLMAN@Q.COM 2010, 2011 9 199 ce Sin rk Quality Wo 2012, “No 2013, Job Too And More! 2010, 2011 Small Man!” 2014 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 2012, 2013, 2014 dent/ References/ Insured/ NotResident a Licensed Contractor 1999 Since Ahwatukee / References Work ty Affordable, Quali 2010, 2011 2012, 2013, ences/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor Insured / Not aCall Licensed Contractor 2014 Bruce at 602.670.7038
uce at 602.670.7038 t 602.670.7038
Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor
• Electrical Repair • Plumbing Repair • Dry rot and termite damage repair
GENERAL CONTRACTOR / HANDYMAN SERVICES SERVING THE ENTIRE VALLEY
All Estimates are Free • Call:
Juan Hernandez
Home Remodeling • BASE BOARDS • DRYWALL • ELECTRICAL • PAINTING • PLUMBING • BATHROOMS • WOOD FLOORING • FRAMING WALLS • FREE ESTIMATES • GRANITE FABRICATION & INSTALLATION • CARPET INSTALLATION • LANDSCAPING
SPRINKLER
No Job Too Small! Senior Discounts!
David Hernandez (602) 802 3600
daveshomerepair@yahoo.com • Se Habla Español
ACTION CONTRACTING INC. WE DO IT ALL!
Bath & Kitchen Remodels • Car-Port to Garage Conversion Drywall & Stucco Repairs • Plumbing • Electrical • Can Lights Windows • Doors • Cabinets • Painting • Block Fences Wrought Iron Gates • Remodeling • Additions • Patios Tenant Improvements
East Valley
480-833-7353 - Office 480-430-7737 - Cell A+
-S
IN
1 CE
97
8-
LIC/BONDED/INSURED Res/Comm’l ROC#218802
aaaActionContractingInc.com
General Contacting, Inc.
Drip/Install/Repair & Tune ups! Not a licensed contractor
Juan Hernandez
TREE
TRIMMING
25 years exp. Call Now (480) 720-3840
25 Years exp (480) 720-3840
Insured/Bonded Free Estimates
ALL Pro
T R E E
S E R V I C E
L L C
Prepare for Spring Season! LANDSCAPING, TREES & MAINTENANCE
Tree Trimming • Tree Removal Stump Grinding Storm Damage • Bushes/Shrubs Yard Clean-up Commercial and Residential PMB 435 • 2733 N. Power Rd. • Suite 102 • Mesa dennis@allprotrees.com
480-354-5802 Irrigation
One Call, We Do It All! 602-339-4766 LLC
• Drywall Repair • Bathroom Remodeling • Home Renovations
Landscape/Maintenance
Licensed • Bonded • Insured • ROC118198
Handyman
HONESTY • INTEGRITY • QUALITY
• Panel Changes and Repairs • Installation of Ceiling Fans • Switches/Outlets • Home Remodel
Home Improvement
NOT A LICENSED CONTRACTOR
Carpet Cleaning
520.508.1420
www.husbands2go.com
Licensed, Bonded & Insured • ROC#317949
Owner Does All Work, All Honey-Do Lists All Remodeling, Additions, Kitchen, Bath, Patio Covers, Garage, Sheds, Windows, Doors, Drywall & Roofing Repairs, Painting, All Plumbing, Electrical, Concrete, Block, Stucco, Stack Stone, All Flooring, Wood, Tile, Carpet, Welding, Gates, Fences, All Repairs.
Sprinkler & Drip Systems Repairs • Modifications • Installs
Free Estimates with Pride & Prompt Service!
Add a Background Color to Your Ad! Classifieds 480-898-6465
Ask me about FREE water testing!
Hauling
• Furniture • Appliances • Mattresses • Televisions • Garage Clean-Out • Construction Debris
• Old Paint & Chems. • Yard Waste • Concrete Slab • Remodeling Debris • Old Tires
Irrigation
• Sprinkler/Drip Repairs • New Installs Poly/PVC • Same Day Service
NTY
5-YEAR WARRA
480.654.5600 azirrigation.com Cutting Edge LLC • ROC 281671
• 20 Years Experience • 6 Year Warranty
480.345.1800 ROC 304267 • Licensed & Bonded
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
Landscape/Maintenance
33
Painting
Window Cleaning
Roofing
Irrigation Repair Services Inc. Licensed • Bonded • Insured Technician
Specializing in Controllers, Valves, Sprinklers, Landscape Lighting, P.V.C. & Poly Drip Systems
Call Lance White www.irsaz.com
ROC# 256752
Your Ad can go ONLINE ANY Day! Call to place your ad online! Classifieds 480-898-6465 Painting
PAINTING OF ALL TYPES SPECIALIZING IN: Wood & Stucco Repairs • Deck Restoration Roofing, Shingles & Metal • Exterior/Interior Painting Elastometric & Clear Coats • Power Washing Leaf Guards (20yr No Clog) New 6" Seamless Gutters (Gutter Art Available)
480-532-2525 • Residential / Commercial
HOME IMPROVEMENT & PAINTING Interior/Exterior Painting 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE
Window Cleaning $120 - One Story $160 - Two Story
Tiles, shingles, flat, repairs & new work Free Estimates • Ahwatukee Resident
Dunn Edwards Quality Paint Small Stucco/Drywall Repairs
Over 30 yrs. Experience
We Are State Licensed and Reliable!
480-706-1453
Free Estimates • Senior Discounts
480-338-4011
PLUMBERS CHARGE TOO MUCH! Beat Any Price By 10% • Lifetime Warranty Water Heaters Installed - $799 Unclog Drains - $49 FREE RO UNIT w/Any WATER SOFTENER INSTALL NO INTEREST FINANCING - 60 Months!! ‘A’ RATED PLUMBING REPAIR Free Estimates • Same Day Service
480-405-7099 ItsJustPlumbSmart.com
Juan Hernandez
Pavers • Concrete • Water Features • Sprinkler Repair
Paint Interior & Exterior • Drywall Repair Light Carpentry • Power Washing • Textures Matched Popcorn Removal • Pool Deck Coatings Garage Floor Coatings • Color Consulting
10% OFF
We Beat Competitors Prices & Quality Free Estimates! Home of the 10-Year Warranty!
480-688-4770
www.eastvalleypainters.com Family Owned & Operated Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131
Now Accepting all major credit cards
480.898.6465
10% Discount for Ahwatukee Residents 100% NO Leak Guarantee Re-Roof & Roofing Repairs Tile, Shingles & Flat Roof
CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM
MonsoonRoofingInc.com Licensed – Bonded – Insured – ROC187561
Puzzle
What was that movie with that one song...?
Pool Service / Repair
Voted #1
Ask Us. Call Classifieds Today!
480-699-2754 • info@monsoonroofinginc.com
Given lyrics to a song in a movie and the year, can you figure out the movie title?
PPebbleOcracking, O L Plaster R Epeeling, P ARebar IR showing, Pool Light out? I CAN HELP!
FALL SPECIAL! $500 OFF COMPLETE REMODEL! 25 Years Experience • Dependable & Reliable
Call Juan at
480-720-3840 Not a licensed contractor.
MISSED THE DEADLINE?
LYRICS
YEAR
Shall we dance on a bright cloud of music, shall we dance?
1956
Raindrops keep falling on my head and just like the guy whose feet are too big for his bed, nothing seems to fit
1969 & 2004
Music loud and women warm, I’ve been kicked around since I was born
1977
MOVIE TITLE ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________
Kick off your Sunday shoes, please, Louise 1984 pull me up off my knees, Jack, get back
______________________________
Now I’ve had the time of my life, No I never felt like this before
1987 ______________________________
Come on baby, don’t fear the reaper baby take my hand, don’t fear the reaper
1996 ______________________________
Call us to place your ad online!
480-898-6465
CB
Answers Top to Bottom: The King & I, 1969 Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid/2004 Spiderman 2, Staying Alive, Footloose, Dirty Dancing, The Frighteners
East Valley PAINTERS
Bonded & Insured
ADD COLOR TO YOUR AD!
Plumbing
Bonded/Insured • ROC #223709
ROC 296559 • Licensed, Bonded & insured
Sun Screens Cleaned $3 each Attention to detail and tidy in your home.
(480) 584-1643
Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099
ROC#309706
Includes in & out up to 30 Panes
LLC
480.721.4146
Professional service since 1995
COUNTS
APPEARANCE
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
34
Public Notices
Public Notices
CITY OF MESA MESA, ARIZONA 16” WATER MAIN – SIGNAL BUTTE ROAD, PECOS ROAD TO GERMANN SIGNAL BUTTE ROAD FROM PECOS ROAD TO GERMANN
CITY OF MESA
PROJECT NO. CP0828NP01
PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Public Comment Period
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that sealed bids will be received until Thursday, April 1, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. All sealed bids will be received electronically at EngineeringBids@mesaaz.gov . Bids must be submitted as an unencrypted PDF attachment with a maximum size limit of 20MB. Any bid received after the time specified will be returned without any consideration. This contract shall be for furnishing all labor, materials, transportation and services for the construction and/or installation of the following work: Installation of 5,371 LF of 16” water main between Pecos Road and Germann Road, ahead of the construction of the future Signal Butte Road alignment including valves, hydrants, corrosion protection, etc. Installation of 673 LF of 12” water main to connect to the existing line to the east of the Signal Butte Road and Germann Road intersection. The Engineer’s Estimate range is $1,400,000 to 1,600,000. For all technical, contract, bid-related, or other questions, please contact Donna Horn at Donna.horn@mesaaz.gov. Contact with City Employees. All firms interested in this project (including the firm’s employees, representatives, agents, lobbyists, attorneys, and subconsultants) will refrain, under penalty of disqualification, from direct or indirect contact for the purpose of influencing the selection or creating bias in the selection process with any person who may play a part in the selection process. This policy is intended to create a level playing field for all potential firms, to assure that contract decisions are made in public, and to protect the integrity of the selection process. All contact on this selection process should be addressed to the authorized representative identified above. Contractors desiring to submit proposals may purchase sets of the Bid Documents from ARC Document Solutions, LLC, at https://order.earc.com/arcEOC/PWELL_Main.asp?mem=29. Click on “Go” for the Public Planroom to access plans. NOTE: In order to be placed on the Plan Holders List and to receive notifications and updates regarding this bid (such as addenda) during the bidding period, an order must be placed. The cost of each Bid Set will be no more than $28, which is non-refundable. Partial bid packages are not sold. You can view documents on-line (at no cost), order Bid Sets, and access the Plan Holders List on the website at the address listed above. Please verify print lead time prior to arriving for pick-up. For a list of locations nearest you, go to www.e-arc.com. One set of the Contract Documents is also available for viewing at the City of Mesa’s Engineering Department at 20 East Main Street, Mesa, AZ. Please call 480-644-2251 prior to arriving to ensure that the documents are available for viewing. In order for the City to consider alternate products in the bidding process, please follow Arizona Revised Statutes §34.104c. If a pre-bid review of the site has been scheduled, details can be referenced in Project Specific Provision Section #3, titled “Pre-Bid Review of Site.” Work shall be completed within135 consecutive calendar days, beginning with the day following the starting date specified in the Notice to Proceed. Bids must be submitted on the Proposal Form provided and be accompanied by the Bid Bond for not less than ten percent (10%) of the total bid, payable to the City of Mesa, Arizona, or a certified or cashier's check. PERSONAL OR INDIVIDUAL SURETY BONDS ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE. The successful bidder will be required to execute the standard form of contract for construction within ten (10) days after formal award of contract. In addition, the successful bidder must be registered in the City of Mesa Vendor Self-Service (VSS) System (http://mesaaz.gov/business/purchasing/vendor-self-service). The successful bidder, simultaneously with the execution of the Contract, will be required to furnish a Payment Bond in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price, a Performance Bond in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Price, and the most recent ACORD® Certificate of Liability Insurance form with additional insured endorsements. The right is hereby reserved to accept or reject any or all bids or parts thereto, to waive any informalities in any proposal and reject the bids of any persons who have been delinquent or unfaithful to any contract with the City of Mesa.
ATTEST: DeeAnn Mickelsen City Clerk Published: East Valley Tribune Feb. 21, 28, 2021 / 36489
BETH HUNING City Engineer
(March 11, 2021 – April 9, 2021) Date of Publication: February 28, 2021 FY 2021/2022 Annual Action Plan
Proposed Use of Funds for anticipated awards from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG), Emergency Solutions Grant Program (ESG), HOME Investments Partnership Program (HOME). In accordance with the federal regulations at 24 CFR, Part 91, the City of Mesa (City) is required to prepare and submit an Annual Action Plan for its Housing and Community Development Entitlement Programs funded by HUD. The Action Plan for Fiscal Year 20212022 outlines how the City intends to spend approximately $4,065,626 in federal CDBG, $327,701 in ESG funds, and $1,510,503 in federal HOME entitlement funds. The FY 2021-2022 Annual Action Plan proposes uses of CDBG, ESG, and HOME funds for funding activities that are consistent with the City’s Five-Year Consolidated Plan. As a condition of the receipt of federal funds, the City is required to hold a minimum of two public hearings to inform the general public of additions or changes, including the cancellation of proposed activities or amendments to the City Citizen Participation Plan. Notice of Public Comment Period A public comment period regarding the FY 2021/2022 proposed activities in the Annual Action will begin on
See MORE Ads Online! www.EastValleyTribune.com
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
35
Public Notices
Public Notices
Thursday, March 11, 2021 and end on Friday, April 9, 2021. All written comments received no later than March 23, 2021 will be considered.
CITY OF MESA, ARIZONA ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Written comments may be sent to: Michelle Albanese, City of Mesa, P.O. Box 1466, Mesa, AZ 85211-1466. You may also contact her at (480) 644-4546, or via e-mail at Michelle. Albanese@mesaaz.gov for further information. The City of Mesa is committed to making its public meetings accessible. For accommodations, translation, or additional information, please contact the City of Mesa Community Services at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at (480) 644-4546; or e-mail: CommunityRevitalization@mesaaz. gov; or AZRelay 7-1-1 for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Si necesita asistencia o traducción en español, favor de llamar al menos 48 horas antes de la reunión al 480-6442767. Michelle Albanese, Housing & Community Development Director
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Mesa is seeking a qualified firm or team to act as the Construction Manager at Risk for the following: Northeast Public Safety Facility 1304 N POWER RD. Mesa, AZ 85205 PROJECT NO.CP0913 The City of Mesa is seeking a qualified Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) to provide Pre-Construction Services assistance and complete Construction Services as the CMAR for the Northeast Public Safety Facility Project. All qualified firms that are interested in providing these services are invited to submit their Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) in accordance with the requirements detailed in the Request for Qualifications (RFQ). The following is a summary of the project. The required tasks will be reviewed with the selected CMAR and defined to meet the needs of the project as part of the contract scoping. The scope of the project includes: 1. Accommodations for two (2) Fire crews and one (1) ambulance crew, including up to five (5) pull-through bays for Fire and Medical vehicles. 2. Accommodations for Police personnel and operations. 3. A common space lobby, community/training room, workout room, and conference rooms. 4. Parking lot • Secured parking for staff and police vehicles. • Public parking for community engagement. 5. Site improvements and utility improvements The City may include other miscellaneous improvements on the site, as needed. The estimated construction cost is $23,500,000 - $26,500,000. A Pre-Submittal Conference will be held on March 3, 2021, at 9:00 AM through Microsoft Teams. If you would like to participate, please send an email to Stephanie Gishey at stephanie.gishey@mesaaz.gov to receive the invite. At this meeting, the project team, including City staff will discuss the scope of work, general contract requirements and respond to questions from the attendees. The Pre-Submittal Conference is not mandatory but recommended. All interested firms may submit a Statement of Qualifications whether they attend the conference or not. All interested firms are encouraged to attend the Pre-Submittal Conference since City staff will not be available for meetings or to respond to individual inquiries regarding the project scope outside of this conference. In addition, there will not be meeting minutes or any other information published from the Pre-Submittal Conference.
(Published: February 28, 2021 East Valley Tribune/ 36636)
OUR JOB BOARD HAS THE TALENT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR
Contact with City Employees. All firms interested in this project (including the firm’s employees, representatives, agents, lobbyists, attorneys, and subconsultants) will refrain, under penalty of disqualification, from direct or indirect contact for the purpose of influencing the selection or creating bias in the selection process with any person who may play a part in the selection process. This policy is intended to create a level playing field for all potential firms, to assure that contract decisions are made in public, and to protect the integrity of the selection process. All contact on this selection process should be addressed to the authorized representative identified below. RFQ Lists. The RFQ is available on the City’s website at http://mesaaz.gov/business/engineering/construction-manager-at-risk-and-job-order-contracting-opportunities. The Statement of Qualifications shall include a one-page cover letter that contains current company/firm contact information including a valid phone number and email address, plus a maximum of ten (10) pages to address the SOQ evaluation criteria (excluding PPVF’s and resumes but including an organizational chart with key personnel and their affiliation). Resumes for each team member shall be limited to a maximum length of two pages and should be attached as an appendix to the SOQ. Minimum font size shall be 10pt. Please provide one (1) electronic copy in an unencrypted PDF format to Engineering-RFQ@mesaaz.gov by March 11, 2021, by 2:00PM. Please refer to our website for the most current information on how to submit SOQs. The City reserves the right to accept or reject any and all Statements of Qualifications. The City is an equal opportunity employer. Statement of Qualifications must include the following information (failure to include may result in rejection of Statement of Qualifications). Firms who wish to do business with the City of Mesa must be registered in the City of Mesa Vendor Self Service (VSS) System (http://mesaaz.gov/business/purchasing/vendor-self-service).
EASILY POST JOBS 480-898-6465 EMAIL: jobposting@evtrib.com JOBS.EASTVALLEYTRIBUNE.COM
Questions. Questions pertaining to the Construction Manager at Risk selection process or contract issues should be directed to Stephanie Gishey of the Engineering Department at stephanie.gishey@mesaaz.gov. BETH HUNING City Engineer ATTEST: DeeAnn Mickelsen City Clerk
MORE INFO:
Published: East Valley Tribune Feb. 21, 28, 2021 / 36505
THE MESA TRIBUNE | FEBRUARY 28, 2021
36
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