Scottsdale Progress - 03-08-2020 by Times Media Group

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An edition of the East Valley Tribune

INSIDE

This Week

NEWS............................... 6 Scottsdale HOA slams door on vacation rentals.

NEIGHBORS .........20 He's putting environmental lessons on wheels.

BUSINESS ............... 29 Salon fulfills a desire to change the world

NEIGHBORS .........................................20 BUSINESS .............................................. 29 OPINION ................................................. 31 ARTS ........................................................ 32 FOOD & DRINK .................................. 36 CLASSIFIEDS ....................................... 38

Sunday, March 8, 2020

Scottsdale Election 2020 beginning to take shape BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY Progress Managing Editor

f early filings are any indication, Scottsdale voters can look forward to lengthy ballots in this year’s primary and general elections. Six candidates threw their hats in the ring to become the city’s next mayor and

10 residents are vying for three open city council seats. To make it onto the ballot, those candidates must turn in petitions “containing not less than 1,000 signatures or more than 10,430 signatures” by April 6, according to the city. Qualified candidates will face off against each other in the primary election on Aug.

4 and, if necessary, in the general election on Nov. 3. According to the city, a candidate must receive over 50 percent of the vote to be elected outright in the primary. The crowd does not thin out much further up the ballot, either: nearly 20 can-

Coronavirus starts Lights, camera, action! making an impact in Scottsdale

see ELECTIONS page 10

BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY Progress Managing Editor

hough there has only been two cases of coronavirus in Arizona, one hit close to home for the City of Scottsdale. Four Scottsdale firefighters and a two-person ambulance crew were isolated after treating a man last week who later tested positive for COVID-19, also called novel coronavirus, according to a City of Scottsdale statement on March 5. The presumptive positive case here involves an employee at the downtown nightclub Riot House, which posted on its Facebook page the employee had limited interactions with cus-

see CORONA VIRUS page 8

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Trini Guevara and Chris Carson are filming a scene in conjunction with an orientation that Scottsdale Community College's Film+Theatre program held two weeks ago for high school students as they prepare for the college's annual Short Film Festival in May. To see why high school students were invited, see page. 28. (Chris Mortenson/Progress Staff Photographer)

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SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | MARCH 8, 2020

Teen mental health bill sails through Legislature An edition of the East Valley Tribune Scottsdale Progress is published every Sunday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout Scottsdale. To find out where you can pick up a free copy of Scottsdale Progress, please visit www.Scottsdale.org. CONTACT INFORMATION Main number 480-898-6500 | Advertising 480-898-5624 Circulation service 480-898-5641 Scottsdale Progress 4301 N 75th St., Suite 201, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Publisher Steve T. Strickbine Vice President Michael Hiatt ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Display Advertising 480-898-6309 Classifieds/Inside Sales Elaine Cota | 480-898-7926 | ecota@scottsdale.org TJ Higgins | 480-898-5902 | tjhiggins@scottsdale.org Advertising Office Manager Lori Dionisio | 480-898-6309 | ldionisio@scottsdale.org Director of National Advertising Zac Reynolds | 480-898-5603 | zac@scottsdale.org NEWS DEPARTMENT Executive Editor Paul Maryniak | 480-898-5647 | pmaryniak@scottsdale.org Managing Editor Wayne Schutsky | 480-898-6533 | wschutsky@scottsdale.org Staff Writers Kristine Cannon | 480-898-9657 | kcannon@scottsdale.org Jim Walsh | 480-898-5639 | jwalsh@scottsdale.org Photographers Pablo Robles | Probles@scottsdale.org Design Veronica Thurman | vthurman@scottsdale.org Copy Editor April Morganroth | 480-656-9667 | amorganroth@ timespublications.com Production Coordinator Courtney Oldham | 480-898-5617 | production@scottsdale.org Circulation Director Aaron Kolodny | 480-898-5641 | customercare@scottsdale.org Marketing Director Lynette Carrington | 480-898-5621 Scottsdale Progress is distributed by AZ Integrated Media, a circulation service company owned by Times Media Group. The public is permitted one copy per reader. For further information regarding the circulation of this publication or others in the Times Media Group family of publications, and for subscription information, please contact AZ Integrated Media at circ@azintegratedmedia.com or 480-898-5641. For circulation services please contact Aaron Kolodny at aaron@azintegatedmedia.com.

BY JIM WALSH Progress Staff Writer

Gilbert couple’s hard work – started three years ago in the wake of their 15-year-old son’s suicide – paid off as a sweeping mental health bill flew unscathed through a series of legislative hearings straight to the Governor’s desk. On March 4, Governor Doug Ducey signed the bill into law after it gained unanimous support at the legislature. The week prior, four Senate and House committees each voted unanimously to recommend the full legislature approve Jake’s Law, which would require insurance companies to treat mental health in the same manner as physical illness, finally enforcing a 12-year-old federal law. “Jake is more than his mental illness, and he is more than his death,” said Denise Denslow, who pursued the legislation in the wake of her son’s death. “In a lot of ways, this is his legacy. He was full of compassion, empathy, and love and he always looked out for others.” “I know this is what Jake would have wanted us to do,” Denslow said. “We can’t bring Jake back but we can make sure this doesn’t happen to other families. Thank you for allowing us to honor Jake.” An important provision of the law creates a Suicide Mortality Review Team, aimed at identifying the root causes of each suicide as quickly as possible to prevent more deaths. One goal of the legislation is to expand the availability of counseling and other mental health services to students in schools, addressing problems before the grim prospect of a child viewing suicide as an option for ending their pain. School districts have the option of contracting with a mental health provider and billing the state or providing the services and seeking reimbursement from the state. Mental health advocates view Jake’s Law as a critical next step in suicide prevention, beyond the Mitch Warnock Act, now requires training of school employees to recognize the early warning signs of suicide. “I tell people all the time, your stories have power. It’s your stories that change hearts and minds,’’ Denslow said. “I think it’s past time for this. We have lost our son. We can’t bring our son back, but we can

Governor Doug Ducey signed Jake’s Law on March 3, surrounded by legislators and Denise and Ben Denslow, the parents who fought for the legislation after their son committed suicide three years ago. (Photo courtesy of the Arizona Governor’s Office).

make sure it doesn’t happen to someone else.’’ Three years ago, Denslow and her husband, Ben, sold their larger home near Chandler Fashion Mall, in need of a fresh start after Jacob’s death in January 2016. The couple moved to a smaller house in south Gilbert and plowed the money they made into launching the JEM Foundation in Jacob’s memory. They committed themselves to a non-profit charity, not a partisan political organization – even though politics were a necessary part of getting a bill passed. “We had a lot of people tell us ‘you will never get a parity law passed in Arizona,’’’ Denslow said. But the Denslows weren’t going to be discouraged easily. After two hospitalizations in September 2015, both of them lasting five days, Jacob was discharged from an in-patient program after an insurance company ruled it was not a “medical necessity,’’ even though mental health professionals feared he was not stabilized. An out-patient program proved inadequate when he took his own life three months later. Despite a lack of background in politics, the Denslows embarked on a grassroots effort. They spent three years cultivating relationships and learning what it takes to get a bill passed. They eventually found allies willing to help them. They started with Sen. Sean

Bowie and Rep. Mitzi Epstein, D-Tempe, then built some bi-partisan support by adding influential Republicans, including Chandler state Rep. Jeff Weninger and Chandler Sen. J.D. Mesnard. Those allies include Sen. Kate BrophyMcGee, R-Phoenix, the chair of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee, where Jake’s Law got a friendly reception that was repeated at three other hearings. Committee members also include cochair Sen. Heather Carter, R-Phoenix, who has long supported suicide prevention and health-oriented legislation. Scottsdale resident Christie Lee Kinchen praised the legislature and Governor for their support of Jake’s Law. “In the final remarks during the last vote today, the Speaker House of Representatives, said so poignantly ‘Pain has no party,’” Kinchen said. “Today we have made a huge step in the right direction to remove the stigma of mental and behavioral health in Arizona.” Kinchen, a suicide survivor herself, worked alongside the Denslows to lobby for passage of the law and shared her story repeatedly with legislators, including the struggle to pay medical bills in the wake of a suicide attempt. “Behavioral health will have to be treated the same as physical health by our insurance companies,” Kinchen said. “Our youth will have access to more resources.

see SUICIDE page 16

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | MARCH 8, 2020

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Scottsdale HOA bans short-term rentals BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY Progress Managing Editor

hile Arizona legislators debate whether or not to hand regulatory powers back to cities to rein in short-term rentals, some Scottsdale homeowners associations are taking matters into their own hands. The McDowell Mountain Ranch Community Association adopted a new rule that went into effect on April 1 that bans short-term rentals in the community and assesses a $350 per day fine for violations. The new rule prohibits homes “from being used, allowed, authorized, or advertised for lease for a term of less than” 30 days. The McDowell Mountain Ranch Community Association adopted the rule into its guiding documents in November 2019 with an effective date of April 1, 2020, said General Manager Chris Richardson. Prior to the adoption, Richardson said most homes in the community could be “rented out as frequently as nightly,” though he said come communities within McDowell Mountain Ranch have separate rules and may have already banned shortterm rentals. “The policy was adopted because of a large number of owners who were concerned about their neighboring properties being rented out on a short term basis,” Richardson said. “There were also concerns about loud parties and general com-

DC Ranch adopted a $1,000 fine in March 2019 for residents that violate the community’s prohibition on short-term rentals. (Facebook)

munity compliance.” McDowell Mountain Ranch is not the only Scottsdale community that has taken it upon itself to outlaw short-term rentals. The DC Ranch community has had a strict rental policy in place since 2008, and updated that policy to include a minimum $1,000 fine in March 2019, DC Ranch Association Executive Director Darren Shaw said. DC Ranch’s policy states that owners in the community may rent their homes, but “the rental/lease term may be no less than six months in duration, and the property may only be rented or leased once in any six-month period.” Shaw said the policy was adopted to discourage rentals at that the association

has a person on staff assigned to regularly check for vacation rental sites at DC Ranch properties. “The policy was adopted by the Board in response to resident complaints and concerns,” Shaw said. “In 2014, a team of residents and staff began compiling what is now our Standards for Conduct at which time the $1,000 fine, our largest, was added for short-term rentals.” The new McDowell Mountain Ranch rule went into effect at a time when cities have little power to regulate shortterm rental homes leased out through popular platforms like Airbnb and VRBO due to a state law passed four years ago that prohibits municipalities from specifically regulating short-term rentals.

the state took a hands-off approach four years ago. Kavanagh said it preserved the ability of individuals to rent out homes, even homes that they bought in neighborhoods solely for the purpose of going into the business of renting them out for days at a time to visitors. And he said that even his restriction on the number of people who could occupy a rental -- two per bedroom -- was altered to allow additional people to effectively camp out in the living room and elsewhere if there is sufficient floor space. But it was that effort to satisfy foes of new regulation that caused several Demo-

crats to decide that, at least for the time being, it was better to leave the current laws in place and the problems they create than to make what Rep. Randy Friese of Tucson called a "partial and flawed solution." Thursday’s vote still leaves an alternate proposal by Sen. Kate Brophy McGee, RPhoenix. Like the now-failed Kavanagh measure, it would limit the number of occupants. But SB 1554 also seeks to limit the number of short-term rentals that any individual can own as well as the number of units of an apartment building that can be converted to short-term rentals. So far, though, her measure has yet to go

That law has not stopped cities like Scottsdale from passing new ordinances in an attempt to crack down on the nuisance parties and other gatherings that Richardson alluded to. In 2019, Scottsdale passed new nuisance party and unlawful gathering ordinances that levy thousands of dollars in fines on homeowners and renters if gatherings conflict with city rules. The new ordinances included prohibitions on public drunkenness, drug use, underage drinking, the blockage of traffic and excessive noise. The ordinances were also in compliance with state law, because they applied to all properties, not just short-term rentals – though the rules were widely seen as the city’s response to resident complaints about the rental properties. Richardson, with McDowell Mountain Ranch, said the new restrictions generated some opposition but the majority of the community is behind them and that residents are still permitted to rent out their properties in accordance with community guidelines. “Owners are still permitted to operate Airbnb, VRBO, etc. in McDowell Mountain Ranch as long as they rent them out for a minimum of 30 days at a time,” Richardson said. “As mentioned previously, some communities within MMR may have more restrictive rules and regulations but cannot be less restrictive.”

State House shoots down rental curbs bill BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

bid to restore some regulation of vacation rentals went down to defeat in the State House last Thursday amid opposition from those who saw it as an infringement on property rights and those who said the new restrictions would not go far enough. The 35-25 vote came despite last-ditch efforts by Rep. John Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills, to convince colleagues from both sides of the political aisle that his HB 2875 was a reasonable approach to deal with the most serious problems created after

to the full Senate for consideration. There also is a less far-reaching measure being pushed by Sen. J.D. Mesard, R-Chandler. His SB 1490 seeks to reclassify homes used for short-term rentals as commercial properties for tax purposes, denying the owners the lower taxes available for residential properties. The measure had opposition from those who believe it already goes too far – including from Rep. John Allen, R-Scottsdale, who said, “This is a direct assault on property rights.” The defeated measure would have allowed cities and counties to require the

see LEG RENTALS page 18

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | MARCH 8, 2020

CITY NEWS

VIRUS from front

tomers and staff for a few minutes March 1, at Riot House and another downtown club, El Hefe. The statement said Riot House owners, Riot Hospitality Group, are working closely with county health officials and a professional cleaning service was hired to clean both clubs with medical-grade disinfectants. "The Maricopa County Department of Health reported to us because of the small amount of time the employee was there, and had very limited interaction with customers and staff, there is absolutely no health danger at either location," the statement said. Meanwhile, city officials on Thursday issued their own statement, announcing: “Once the positive coronavirus test was received, the four-person fire crew and two-person ambulance crew were excluded from work as a precautionary measure and will follow social distancing guidelines for 12-14 days per direction from Maricopa County Public Health.” The city said none of the emergency personnel involved have shown any symptoms and one firefighter has since been

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cleared to return to work. “Because the personnel involved followed standard practices and procedures to limit exposure to contagions, there is no cause for concern among anyone else who they subsequently may have cared for,” according to the city. Outbreak of the virus began in China and has since spread to countries throughout the world. Locally, leaders are also taking precautions in the event the virus spreads here. The City of Scottsdale defers to direction from Maricopa County Department of Health Services and Centers for Disease Control in these types of situations. But city spokesperson Kelly Corsette said the Scottsdale does have an emergency response team in place. “The city’s emergency response plans account for public health emergencies so we can continue to serve the community during those situations,” Corsette said. “Our emergency response leadership team is discussing whether any adjustments to our plans, or whether any specific actions, are warranted at this point,” she added. The Scottsdale Unified School District has also convened an incident response

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team and set up an informational website for families and staff. The district’s incident command team, which most recently met on Feb. 28, is in charge of making sure the district has the information, staffing and resources needed to address a health emergency. “The team is in regular contact with public health agencies to ensure we are sharing the most accurate and up-to-date information with our stakeholder groups,” according to the district. The website, susd.org/COVID19, includes details on the district’s response and how individuals can prevent the spread of the virus and protect themselves. It also includes copies of all letters sent home to parents concerning the virus. SUSD is also working on a plan for how to handle any school or district closures necessary if the virus spreads locally. The Arizona Health Services and Maricopa County Department of Public Health are not currently recommending school closures. District spokesperson Amy Bolton said the district, like the city, is taking direction from the county. “We are having active discussion that could be taken in the event of a school closure,” Bolton said. “Schools also regularly exercise emergency plans to be ready for any scenario impacting the campus. “So, we are ready with aspects of a plan, but a specific action plan would be determined by the specific circumstances under the direction of MCDPH.” Bolton said the district is not handling potentially-sick students any differently than normal, meaning students showing symptoms will be sent home. “Sick children (and employees) are being treated as they always would: anyone exhibiting signs and symptoms of illness is referred to an on-campus nurse for evalu-

ation,” Bolton said. “If anyone is determined to have a fever above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, they are directed to stay away from campus and/or their SUSD workplace until they have been fever-free for 24 hours without the aid of medications,” she said. The Arizona Department of Education gave school leaders a list of suggested actions, including reviewing sick policies, routinely disinfecting facilities and making sure hand sanitizer, soap and tissues are widely available at schools. The ADE also suggested districts take steps to prepare for potential spread of the illness by making sure they have communication plans in place for parents. It also advised districts to make sure parents have designated caregivers for sick children and there are plans for students experiencing food insecurity. The local business community is also keeping an eye on effects of the virus. As a city heavily dependent on tourism, Scottsdale could be affected by the a slump in travel. Stephanie Pressler, director of community affairs for Experience Scottsdale, said it is too soon to tell what effect the virus will have on Scottsdale’s robust hotel industry, because there is a one-month lag in the occupancy reports the organization receives from STR, the analytics firm tracking hotel performance. STR is reporting hotel occupancy was down in several major markets in Europe in late February amid the cancellations or postponements of large events and conferences like the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain. In China, which has the highest number of confirmed cases, hotel occupancy fell 75 percent in two weeks at the end of January.

see VIRUS page 18

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ELECTIONS from front

didates have announced interest in the state house and senate races in Legislative Districts 23 and 24. Scottsdale voters should gain a clearer picture of exactly which names will appear on the ballot once candidates turn in their nominating petitions with signatures supporting their candidacy by April 6. But before they can circulate those petitions, candidates for local offices must file statements of interest with the County Recorder while candidates for the Legislature or other state and federal offices must file them with the Arizona Secretary of State. Here’s a look at what those statements of interest show.

BOROWSKI

In the mayoral hunt

Lisa Borowsky is a lawyer and former Scottsdale councilwoman who served one term on council from 2009 to 2013. Borowsky, who owns a downtown Scottsdale law firm, ran unsuccessfully to become the Republican candidate for Congress in District 9. Tim Horn has a degree in city planning and previously worked in development. In the past, he hosted a conservative talk radio show on KKNT 960 AM “The Patriot” and authored the book “Ruling the Elite: Moving Power from the Parties to the People” in 2011. More recently, Horn was involved in the anti-Southbridge Two referendum campaign. Councilwoman Suzanne Klapp is nearing the end of her third term and has the endorsement of outgoing Mayor Jim Lane. Klapp, who previously owned a Scottsdale custom frame shop, also has a background in business management, previously working for Whirlpool and Larson-Juhl. Councilwoman Virginia Korte is nearing the end of her second term. Korte has long roots in Scottsdale, having run her family’s auto dealership, Korte Chevrolet, which was a staple for years on Scottsdale’s Motor Mile on McDowell Road for years. Korte is also a former president and CEO of the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce. Bob Littlefield is a former three-term councilman (2002-2015) and founder

HORN

KLAPP

lyst for State Farm and is a board member on several Valley non-profits, including Fuel Scottsdale, Family Promise and Mission Flyers. He also works with local civic advocacy group SCOTT and volunteers with Sky Kids non-profit. Maxwell is also a member of the city’s Airport Advisory Commission. Councilman Guy Phillips owns a local air conditioning contracting company and is seeking re-election to this third term on city council. Resident Scott Atkins is also running for council, but the Progress was unable to reach him for comment.

LD23 House KORTE of Scottsdale-based computer company NetXpert. Littlefield is a Vietnam War combat veteran and has worked for Prime Computer, DataPhaz, Apollo, and Hewlett-Packard. Littlefield unsuccessfully ran for mayor in 2016 and the Legislature in 2014. David Ortega is an architect and former Scottsdale councilman, who served one term from 2000 to 2004. Ortega unsuccessfully ran for mayor term in 2004. Ortega operates a downtown Scottsdale architecture firm.

City Council

Mike Auerbach is a 10-year resident and small-business owner who ran for council in a crowded field of eight candidates in 2014 but did not make it past the primary election. Tammy Caputi is a 20-year Scottsdale resident and owner of Yale Electric West, an electrical distributor for the commercial construction industry. She served on the city’s Development Review Board. Bill Crawford is a longtime downtown Scottsdale business owner and resident who has a history of advocating for downtown businesses, including as founder of Association to Preserve Downtown Scottsdale’s Quality of Life and a co-founder of the Down-

Joseph Chaplik is a Scottsdale Republican and LITTLEFIELD ORTEGA president of Joseph Bernard Investment Real Estown Scottsdale Economic Vitality Coalition. Crawford last unsuccessfully tate. Chaplik is a former board member Ronald McDonald House Charities ran for council in 2018. Tom Durham is a Scottsdale resident and a member of the U.S. Marshals and lawyer. He previously served as Posse and Maricopa County Sheriff ’s treasurer of the Protect Our Preserve Office Memorial Fund. Rep. John Kavanagh is a Fountain political action committee which fought the proposed Desert Discovery Hills Republican who has served at the Center on the McDowell Sonoran Pre- legislature since 2007. Before being serve and advocated for Proposition elected to the House in 2018, he was District 23’s senator. He chairs the 420 in 2018. Betty Janik is a 15-year Scottsdale House’s Government and Public Safety resident and former president of the committees. Eric Kurland is a Scottsdale DemoCoalition of Greater Scottsdale advocacy group. Janik is a real estate crat and former teacher. He holds agent and former high school science a Bachelor’s degree in finance and teacher. She is treasurer of the Protect master’s degree in curriculum develOur Preserve nonprofit and served opment. He is a former president of on the For the Best Scottsdale PAC on Scottsdale’s teachers union. Rep. Jay Lawrence is a Scottsdale the steering committee advocating for the passage of the city’s $319-million Republican and has been Member of Arizona House of Representatives bond in 2019. Becca Linnig is a Realtor who has since 2015. He is an Air Force veteran lived in Scottsdale for over 20 years and a former radio talk show host. He and is a past president of the Scotts- recently chaired the House Military and Veterans Affairs and Judiciary dale Area Association of Realtors. John Little is a former Scottsdale committees. Daniel Saady and Jacqueline Fox are City manager and has held other leadership positions in the city oversee- also running for the House in LD 23, ing downtown, Scottsdale Airpark and but the Progress was unable to reach transportation. He also served as chief them for comment. of staff to Mayor Herb Drinkwater. see ELECTIONS page 12 Kevin Maxwell is a technology ana-

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Climate, hackers could hurt safe water supply here BY KEVIN PIREHPOUR Progress Contributor

limate change and cyber-attacks are emerging as major concerns of municipalities around the country and Scottsdale is no exception. The possible impacts on water treatment facilities was discussed two weeks ago at a meeting of the Water/Wastewater Rate Advisory Committee, an advisory board for the Phoenix Water Services Department. Members met to discuss the future of water treatment facilities, which could be harmed by severe weather conditions and outdated hardware vulnerable to hackers. “It’s foolish not to take care of the things that need to be taken care of,” committee Chairman Richard Rea said. The committee oversees water treatment services for over 2.5 million people in Phoenix, Glendale, Mesa, Scottsdale and Tempe. The water system includes nearly 5,000 miles of water lines connected to water treatment sites. Severe weather can cause power outag-

ELECTIONS from page 10 LD24 Senate

Seth Blattman is a Scottsdale Democrat and small business owner. Scottsdale resident Adam Kwasman is a lawyer and former Republican legislator, who served in the Arizona House from 2013 to 2015. Sen. Michelle Ugenti-Rita is a Scottsdale Republican wrapping up her first term in the Arizona Senate. Prior to entering the senate, Ugenti-Rita had served in the House since 2011. She currently chairs an of the Senate’s Commerce Committee.

LD24 House

David Alger is a Scottsdale Republican and a military veteran who served in both the U.S. Navy and U.S. Navy Reserve. Rep. Jennifer Longdon is a Phoenix Democrat and was elected in 2018. She has served on Phoenix Mayor’s Commission on Disability Issues, the

es and shut down treatment sites requiring large amounts of electricity to move clean water through the system and to filter wastewater. “As climate is changing, there’s more fluctuations in the weather,” said Darlene Helm, Phoenix deputy director of water engineering. “We’ve seen more severe storms and it’s a concern.” It cost about $23.5 million for electricity between 2018 and 2019 to pump and filter water. “The average home uses 900-kilowatt hours per month,” Helm said. “In a month, we [could] basically power 22-thousand homes with the amount of energy we’re using.” The committee is preparing for future power outages caused by climate change and could affect Valley residents’ access to clean water. “We are trying to design [backup power] for 48 hours on the average day of the hottest month,” Water Services Department Director Kathryn Sorensen said. In recent years, water treatment sites have dealt with “major power outages” linked to weather and power plant meltdowns, according to Helm. Phoenix Mayor’s Neighborhood Advisory Council, the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation’s Public Impact Panel and the Arizona Statewide Independent Living Council. Rep. Amish Shah, a Phoenix Democrat elected to the House in 2018, is an emergency medicine and sports physician. Martin Watkins is a Phoenix Democrat and paramedic. Democrat Rodrigo Silva could not be reached for comment.

LD24 Senate

Sen. Lela Alston is a Phoenix Democrat with a long history at the Capitol. Prior to winning her senate seat in 2018, she served four terms a representative at the Arizona legislature and previously served in the Arizona Senate from 1977 to 1995. She was also a teacher in Phoenix for 34 years. Ryan Starzyk is a Phoenix Democrat and U.S. Army veteran. Democrats Jamie McClendon and Patrick Dampare also filed statements

For example, a Salt River Project transformer fire in 2015 caused a power outage at water treatment sites. Across the state, “major storms” and cold fronts have caused outages at power plants serving treatment sites – resulting in unexpected blackouts committee members and water service operatives “can’t control at all” and it can last “a few minutes or several hours,” according to Helm. In 2015, a study of the power grid at water treatment sites prompted the Phoenix Water Services Department to launch a 10-year, $88 million project to address technology improvements and back-up power concerns. “And there’s always the issue of a cyberattack on the power system,” Helm said. “So, we need to be prepared.” The department’s cyber control network is protected by a series of firewalls to protect it from unauthorized users, officials said. It would be “very difficult” for hackers to infiltrate the secured communication network governing the water treatment sites across the Valley, according to Lead Information Technology Specialist Samantha Thompson. of interest for the seat, but could not be reached.

SUSD Governing Board

Voters in the Scottsdale Unified School District will also select three new Governing Board members in November, but school board candidates have no primary. They must file their petitions between June 6 and July 6 for the November ballot, but are able to file statements of interest now. So far, six candidates have filed statements of interest for the SUSD board, although more candidates could file over the next couple months. Those who have filed include Julie Cieniawski is a 26-year Scottsdale resident who has taught at SUSD for 15 years. She is also a former president of the Scottsdale Education Association. Zachary Lindsay is a Scottsdale resident and Kiva Elementary School parent Rose Smith is an SUSD graduate and former school district employee who now has grandchildren in the district.

But a cyber-attack is still possible, according to Rea, who said: “The reality is anybody could make one of those radios that will do exactly that and if they wanted to, get into the system.” Access to the network would allow a hacker to control pumps and power in and out of treatment sites. However, there are physical controls at sites designed to “shut down” compromised communication lines. Will there ever be a time in which the control networks will be completely secure from hackers? “I think we could replace all the equipment and I will never be 100 percent comfortable,” Thompson said. “Because there is always that concern.” There has not been a cyber-attack on any water treatment site in Arizona. The committee will meet again on March 17. “One of the great frustrations I personally have is nobody’s paying any attention to the realities,” Rea said. “And if you hide it, it never goes away, it just gets worse and worse and worse. It’s kind of like a death spiral.”

Kathleen Angelos is a Scottsdale resident and a veteran of the U.S. Navy and Air Force. She then worked as a defense contractor in the Middle East during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom and is now retired. Lucy Digrazia and Allison Corritore also filed but could not be reached. At the county level, Scottsdale voters in both parties may have some primary election decisions to make, at least according to statements of interest filed so far. Six Republicans are vying for their party’s nomination for county assessor. Five Democrats have filed statements of interest in the County Attorney primary. Two from each party have filed statements for county school superintendent while two Republicans threaten to duke it out for the County Recorder nomination. As many as five Republicans could be vying for the Republican nomination for sheriff.

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Survey shows Scottsdale teachers support union

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he union representing Scottsdale teachers is once again pushing the Scottsdale Unified School District for recognition, citing a new staff poll showing overwhelming support from both members and nonmembers. The poll, conducted by the Scottsdale Education Association, shows 97.8 percent of the 913 respondents “support an employment agreement mutually bargained by SEA and SUSD.” SEA President Kris Ambri said the survey was sent to all of SUSD’s approximately 1,400 certified staff members. A vast majority of the responses – 732, or 82.5 percent – came from classroom teachers; another 87 responses came from special education teachers. The rest of the responses came from other certified staff, including nurses, librarians, counselors and special program teachers. Ambri was quick to point out only 56.5 percent of responses came from SEA members, according to survey results shared with the Progress. Ambri cited the survey when she addressed the SUSD Governing Board on Feb. 18. The district broke off official ties with the SEA in 2017 under former Superintendent Denise Birdwell, effectively severing a bargaining relationship dating back to 1967. Though Ambri said conditions have improved greatly since the Birdwell years, she said there is one major thing missing: recognition of the SEA. Under the previous relationship, both the district and union had a seat at the table to hash out agreements that set the conditions of employment for teachers and staff. “It’s a crucial piece I would say, because there’s a safety in it,” Ambri said. “And I don’t mean the old classing ‘the unions will protect everybody’…Not that kind of safety. I do not have patience for anybody who does not give 100 percent to this job.” “But it’s the safety of (knowing) exactly where to go for this: ‘I know exactly what my rights are for that; I know exactly what

On Feb. 18, Scottsdale Education Association President Kris Ambri discussed the recent survey results with the Scottsdale Unified School District Governing Board. (Progress file photo)

is expected of me for this,’” Ambri said. Following the district’s decision to cut ties in 2017, the SEA filed a lawsuit in 2018 against all then-board members and the district alleging the district had violated terms of the old TEA while it was still in effect. This case lingered in court for over a year before a judge dismissed it. Board member Jann-Michael Greenburg has pushed to take another look at the SEA-district relationship, but those efforts have gained little traction thus far. “I can’t speak to the board or for the district, but my personal view is for decades our district and many districts across the state of Arizona have worked with their education associations, and it’s provided a good channel for communication between the board, the administration and the teaching staff,” Greenburg told the Progress in March 2019. Since he took office in January 2019, Greenburg has requested district administration bring the topic up for discussion at a board meeting. “I only ask because maybe my colleagues

see SEA page 18

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SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | MARCH 8, 2020

City Clerk dismisses Southbridge complaint BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY Progress Managing Editor

he political action committee formed by the developer behind Southbridge Two did not violate state campaign finance laws, according to a report by the Scottsdale City Clerk. Clerk Carolyn Jagger sent a letter to the Preserving Scottsdale’s Future PAC notifying Chairman Jose Ramirez and Treasurer Carter Unger the PAC did not violate campaign finance law for failing to include a “paid by” disclosure on informational flyers about the Southbridge Two development. Unger, the developer behind Southbridge Two, organized Preserving Scottsdale’s Future to combat efforts by the Committee for the Preservation of Old Town Scottsdale, a PAC formed by two downtown property owners to combat the development. The Old Town PAC spearheaded a referendum campaign and collected 14,807 valid signatures in December and January, enough to force a vote and put Southbridge Two before Scottsdale voters in November. Those signatures are now the subject of a pending lawsuit filed by Unger alleging not all of the over 14,000 signatures are valid or in compliance with state referendum rules. On Feb. 5, Tim LaSota, the Old Town PAC’s attorney, filed the complaint with City Clerk Carolyn Jagger against Unger and Protecting Scottsdale’s Future, alleging the flyer violated state law by failing to include a “paid for by” disclosure.

SUICIDE from page 4

This is for all of Arizona! I’m so proud!” Legislators repeatedly praised the Denslows and other victims of suicide for telling their deeply personal stories at the legislative hearings, proving the human touch can be persuasive. “I want you to know we know and we care,’’ Carter said, after some tearful testimony. “We will do everything we can to make sure these services are provided in a timely manner, so your sons and daughters did not die in vain.’’ Kinchen told various committees how her father took his life when she was a child, how she had attempted suicide, amassing massive medical bills during her treatment.

petition. The flyer does not include any information on who paid for the flyer,” according to the complaint. LaSota’s complaint stated “we believe” Protecting Scottsdale’s Future paid for the flyer, which touts the potential economic impact of Southbridge Two and other aspects of the project. Even if the PAC did not pay for the flyer, LaSota alleged a violation could have occurred by an unknown entity. “If Protecting Scottsdale’s Future did not pay for them, then it is possible the entity that did was required to register with your office but did not,” according to the complaint. The complaint was This ﬂyer was at the center of a recently-dismissed cam- sent to Jagger for repaign finance complaint against the Preserving Scottsdale’s Future PAC and the developer behind Southbridge Two. view. She could then refer it to the City Attor(Progress file photo) ney or find no violation occurred. “The attached flyer was distributed by In the letter to Ramirez and Unger, Jagger individuals believed to be associated with Carter Unger and efforts to convince electors wrote no violation occurred. Jagger and LaSota both cited Arizona not to sign the Southbridge Two referendum “We need your help. Jake’s Law will save lives. You can be lifesavers,’’ Kinchen said. Brophy-McGee responded, “the reason you are here is because God has a plan for you’’ to help others. Randall Bass, a physicist, testified he had attempted suicide in the eighth grade, leaving a gash in his head. But after receiving treatment, Bass said he went on to a long and productive career. He said teen suicide deprives society of the contribution victims would have made if they had lived. The Denslows told the committees how their son wanted to be a fighter pilot and loved hockey, but they recognized signs of mental illness throughout his life. They tried virtually everything to help

him and eventually, Jake was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. “We knew about these struggles at home, but he hid them from the outside world,’’ Denise Denslow testified. Denslow said her son would likely be alive today if Jake’s Law had been in existence. But she praised insurance companies for engaging in constructive meetings with suicide prevention advocates long before Jake’s Law was introduced, eliminating a potential source of opposition. A representative of Blue Cross/Blue Shield was listed as a supporter of Jake’s Law on the Senate’s web site. Many medical organizations also were listed as supporters, including the Arizona Medical Association, the Arizona Nurses Association,

state law requires individuals or political action committees making expenditures on election-related advertisements to disclose who paid for the material. State law also defines “expenditure” as “any purchase, payment or other things of value that is made by a person for the purpose of influencing an election.” According to Jagger’s letter, the flyer did not qualify as an expenditure because it did not seek to influence an election. “While the complaint alleges the intent of the flyer was to dissuade prospective signers from signing the referendum petition, the flyer does not identify the ordinance by name or number, the petition by name or number, contain the words referendum or election, or contain any dissuasive language,” Jagger wrote. Additionally, Jagger wrote the referendum does not yet qualify as an election due to Unger’s pending lawsuit challenging the signatures. “As a result, the referendum petition has not been assigned a ballot measure number and no steps have been taken to call a special election to include the measure,” the letter stated. Because the issue was not yet officially on the ballot at the time the flyers were handed out, they did not amount to expenditures to influence any election, Jagger wrote, concluding “there is nothing to indicate any expenditure has been made that would require the “paid for by” disclosure.” Phoenix Children’s Hospital and the state’s three largest hospital chains, Banner, Dignity and Honor. “People don’t see all the work that goes on behind the scenes,’’ Denslow said, praising Brophy-McGee for her work in putting together a coalition of supporters. “Ben and I have been working on this for three years.’’ She said she modeled Jake’s Law after Timothy’s Law, a similar measure in New York State. Timothy’s Law was dedicated to the memory of a 12-year-old boy who took his life. “The system failed them. The status quo is not working. We need to make changes to save our citizens. They deserve better,’’ Denslow said. Wayne Schutsky contributed to this report.

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CITY NEWS

LEG RENTALS from page 6

installation of safety and noise-monitoring equipment directly notified the owners or that person’s designee if the noise exceeds a certain level. Cities also would have been able to require that renters use any available offstreet parking. Gov. Doug Ducey four years ago signed bipartisan legislation stripping cities of oversight of short-term rentals saying he was promoting innovation and free

VIRUS from page 8

According to STR, the latest U.S. numbers from Feb. 23 to 29 may be showing the first signs of an impact from the novel coronavirus, though impact on overall occupancy rate so far is minimal. Overall, occupancy fell 1.7 percent in the U.S. compared to a similar time last year. Pressler said Experience Scottsdale is staying up to date on news about the virus and is sharing information with businesses in the Scottsdale area from the state, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization and U.S. Travel Association. “We are continuing to monitor this rapidly evolving situation so we are at the ready with the latest information and

SEA from page 14

do not want to discuss it at all, so rather than waste the time on a discussion, then we can avoid that,” Greenburg said at a board meeting on March 19. At this meeting, Superintendent Dr. John Kriekard said the board would have a chance to vote on the issue or vote on whether it wanted to discuss the issue at a future time. According to district records, the board has not had those discussions or votes at any meeting since March 2019. It does not appear conversation will happen any time soon. “At the present time, there are no formal agenda items pending from the Governing Board to open meet and confer or change the Certified Handbook to a Board adopted employment agreement,” District spokesperson Amy Bolton said. However, Bolton said “The Scottsdale Unified School District highly values its teachers and is committed to their success

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | MARCH 8, 2020

markets. It was promoted by lobbyists for Airbnb and other home-sharing apps. Rep. Isela Blanc, D-Tempe, told colleagues that things did not work out quite as advertised. “We might recall that Airbnb was sold as an idea to allow people who wanted to rent an extra room to make extra income, who maybe had that vacation home in Flagstaff, to rent the vacation home when they were not using it,’’ she said “I can understand and respect that.’’

“We are continuing to monitor this rapidly evolving situation so that we are at the ready with the latest information and recommendations as we receive inquiries from our hospitality partners, meeting clients and leisure visitors. We want to ensure visitors and meetings attendees feel comfortable traveling to Scottsdale.”

in the classroom and in their careers,” and emphasized the district gave teachers a 20 percent salary increase over the past three years and taken steps to include them in pertinent conversations. Bolton said SUSD leadership has included teachers in discussions over the recent updates to employee handbooks and Kriekard has regular meetings scheduled with teachers every two months and monthly meetings with Ambri, the SEA president. Bolton also said the district included teachers in discussions as it selected SUSD’s next superintendent, Dr. Scott Menzel. Ambri gave the district and administration credit for improving the relationship with teachers over the past few years but emphasized she still believes recognition of the SEA to allow for meet and confer opportunities is the missing piece to restore the teacher-district relationship. She said while she appreciated teachers being included in important conver-

But the reality of preempting local regulations, Blanc said, created something quite different. “We have opened this up wide for investment companies, for investment companies outside our state to come into our state, purchasing up properties,’’ she said. Blanc said that those who operate hotels are deciding to buy up apartments for short-term rentals, creating de facto hotels without having to deal with the requirements and tax obligations. When Ducey signed the legislation in

2016, he was asked about the possibility that the measure – billed as helping individual homeowners – actually could change the character of local neighborhoods as there was no limit on the number of properties an investor could buy nor a cap on the number of days a home could be rented out. The governor brushed aside that possibility. Blanc didn’t believe the measure goes far enough, saying she prefers removing all state restrictions and allowing each community to decide what controls they want.

sations, but teachers deserve a more formal seat at the table. “I would say a lot of times the district will say ‘well we need to hear from the teachers, the parents and the students’ and my opinion is I agree...” Ambri said. “But the teachers are your fellow professionals. “Where we should be not putting in our opinion or sitting to be listened to, but at the table helping make some of the bigger decisions…” Ambri said. It is still unclear whether the SEA will gain more traction when Menzel takes over at the district. Menzel comes from Michigan, a state with a strong teachers union and said he has a history of working collaboratively with all district staff. “We’re on the same team working toward the same objectives and it is to provide tremendous educational opportunities for each and every student in our care,” Menzel said. Menzel did not say whether or not he would advocate reopening a board dis-

cussion on the SEA, though, stating he was not yet familiar with the circumstances that led the board to cut off the relationship. “I’m not well versed in terms of the rationale for the decision in the past between the board and the Scottsdale Education Association, but my commitment is to be collaborative in nature and to work together in order to meet the needs of our students,” Menzel said. Ambri said teachers will continue to focus on their students as they advocate for recognition. “We have high hopes (and) we have positive thoughts, but the bottom line is we are all in the classroom with our students every day,” Ambri said. “So we have to focus on that with whatever else happens around us.” “Even as President of the SEA, whatever happens around me, there’s nothing more important than my little faces I get to educate and help and guide,” she said.

recommendations as we receive inquiries from our hospitality partners, meeting clients and leisure visitors,” Pressler said, adding: “We want to ensure visitors and meetings attendees feel comfortable traveling to Scottsdale.” Mark Stanton, president and CEO of the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce, said Krystal Robinson, associate vice president of Infection Prevention at HonorHealth, recently spoke to the chamber’s Economic Development Advisory Council. Stanton said Robinson gave the council an overview of how Honor Health monitors and addresses infectious diseases with the potential to become an epidemic. The council also heard from George Jack-

son with Wells Fargo Advisors, who spoke to the impact of the virus on global trade and how the outbreak has impacted financial projections. Stanton said there is a particular concern for businesses that rely heavily on employee travel. “So that’s a concern that a lot of businesses are looking at and trying to get a handle on what the CDC is recommending and the best practices that they’re seeing,” Stanton said. The Maricopa County Department of Health Services has set up informational website for residents: maricopa. gov/5460/Coronavirus-Disease-2019. It includes information about COVID-19, how to prevent its spread and updates on cases in the county.

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Boys & Girls Club names Youth of the Year BY KRISTINE CANNON Progress Staff Writer

oys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale named Pinnacle High School senior Carly Mertz as its 2020 Youth of the Year. Carly, 17, was recognized at BGCS’s annual Celebrate Youth Gala on Feb. 28. “Our gala guests are always in awe of our teen leaders, and this year our eight �inalists did not disappoint,” said Robyn Julien, BGCS President and CEO. “On full display at the Celebrate Youth Gala was the true impact of the Clubs – con�ident, compassionate, and resilient young leaders on their individual paths to great futures.” Carly has been a member of the BGCS Thunderbirds Branch in northern Scottsdale for 12 years. “The club has given me amazing opportunities to form my own identity,” Carly said in a video seen before she gave her speech to the more than 600

The 2020 Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale Youth of the Year, Carly Mertz, from the Thunderbirds branch poses with her award, the highest honor a Club member can receive. (Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale)

guests at the gala, presented by Tiffany & Bosco and Meritage Homes. “I believe I have become a leader because of the encouragement and support of Club staff.” Carly told her story of �inding con�idence, positive body image and acceptance at the club. “I experienced anxiety on a daily basis, and as a third-grader, I constantly felt like I wasn’t good enough,” Carly said. “Giving something as seemingly small as that ‘maroon and gold medal’ to the awkward girl with mismatched out�its and a strong personality may seem insigni�icant but, in that moment, I had never felt more accepted.” “It was in that moment I realized the Boys & Girls Club wasn’t looking for me to be faultless. They wanted me to be myself. They had given me this medal because they recognized me for who I actually was, including my faults, and they celebrated that.” Carly will receive a $5,000 scholar-

ship for college, which will help her achieve her goal of becoming an event planner for a nonpro�it. Also interested in community service and corporate responsibility, Carly was accepted to Arizona State University’s Barrett, the Honors College and will major in marketing and hospitality. Carly will compete at the state level on March 30, with the potential to move onto regional and national competitions. “I will use my platform to remind every kid they should be themselves. Remind them mental health is important. Remind them it’s okay to ask for help. Remind them they are good enough,” Carly said. Carly has held leadership roles in Torch Club, Keystone, and as a Leader in Training. This year, she was Keystone president. Carly is also currently a valued part-

�� CARLY �� 22

He drives a rolling class on sustainability BY KRISTINE CANNON Progress Staff Writer

hen Air Force veteran Donald Jacques parked the 84-passenger school bus in front of his southern Scottsdale home in March 2017, his neighbors weren’t too pleased. “I had three or four neighbors come down, and they raised a big stink. They did not like the bus,” Jacques said. “Of course, back then, I didn’t have the panels on yet. The lettering wasn’t on it. It looked like a big, black prison bus, and they didn’t want it here.” What Jacques’ neighbors didn’t know was exactly what the school bus was to be-

Donald Jacques is the owner of Don the HandyDuck and CEO of nonproﬁt organization EarthSeed, Incorporated. EarthSeed celebrates its third year presenting the EarthSeed bus. (Chris Mortenson/Progress Staff Photographer)

come: the EarthSeed Mobile Analog Sustainability Habitat (MASH), a completely off-grid sustainable habit. “SpaceX gave me the idea on their website,” Jacques said. “If you go to the Falcon 9 page, and you go to the bottom right corner where they showed the fairing, they put a picture of a school bus inside the fairing to show how big the fairing is. This was inspiration for me.” Over two years, Jacques equipped the bus with a 200-gallon �ish pond, 32-square-feet of media garden and 96-square-feet of vertical wall garden that a couple of weeks ago has about 20

�� EARTHSEED �� 22

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CARLY �� 20

time Club staff member. Youth of the Year is a national Boys & Girls Clubs of America program promoting leadership, exceptional academic performance, and community service. The competition began in September with 19 BGCS teens vying for the Clubs’ highest honor and a total of $12,000 in scholarship awards provided by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale Foundation. Broadband Dynamics and Gabbie and Bob Rife provided an additional $2,000 for each �inalist. In addition to Carly, this year’s �inalists included Joseph (JP) Cahill, 15, of the Mary Ellen & Robert McKee Branch and freshman at Fountain Hills High School; Zaria Gonzales, 15, of the Lehi Branch and sophomore at Westwood High School; Annay Lopez, 18, of the Scottsdale Charros Branch and senior

EARTHSEED �� 20

plant varieties, from tomatoes, broccoli, and cauli�lower to strawberries, lavender, parsley, and much more. “I’m really proud,” Jacques said of the garden. “This is my fourth planting trying to get things to work, and we’re doing a lot better.” The bus also has solar panels producing 2,400 watts of power – “which is about a third of an Arizona house,” Jacques explained during our tour – and is equipped with 12 batteries, when fully charged, provide about 16 hours of power. Jacques built a tiny home prototype in 2014, purchased the bus in 2017 and turned EarthSeed into a nonpro�it during the same year. A year later, the bus hit the road visiting Arizona schools, including Mesquite High School in Gilbert, and has visited festivals around the Valley, including, most recently, the SouthWest Maker Fest Feb. 15 in Mesa. “We had over 500 people come to the bus that day,” Jacques said of SouthWest Maker Fest. “Most people are absolutely shocked you can put this kind of stuff in this kind of a space.” Jacques said many students and visitors are initially attracted to the �ishpond and then the garden in the back of the bus. “As far as sustainability goes, it shows people you can put an entire garden like

All eight ﬁnalists pose with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale President and CEO Robyn Julien after the Celebrate Youth Gala on Feb. 28. From left to right: JP Cahill, Mary Ellen & Robert McKee Branch; Zaria Gonzales, Lehi Branch; Annay Lopez, Scottsdale Charros Branch; Kennise McGertt, Red Mountain Branch; Robyn Julien; Carly Mertz, The Thunderbirds Branch; Kayla McNutt, Virginia G. Piper Branch; Jason Nuñez, Hartley & Ruth Barker Branch; Isabella Treasure, Vestar Branch. (Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale)

“You see the light go off with the kids, and they start seeing the connections and discovering where food comes from,” he added. “I spent several years as a teacher, and I loved it because when the light bulb goes off, it’s like the �lood gates open and they start seeing potential and MASH is a converted 84-passenger school bus that features a they start getting 200-gallon ﬁshpond, 32-square-feet of media garden, and 96 ideas of their own square feet of vertical wall garden. (Chris Mortenson/Progress Staff Photographer) and they start looking at what they can do.” this and �ish pond in your basement and On March 14 and 15, the EarthSeed bus grow enough food for your family. It’s actuwill make an appearance at Tucson Book ally possible,” Jacques said. “One of the goals of the bus is to be able Festival’s Science City at University of Arito feed as many as four people on a regular zona, followed by EarthSeed’s third visit to Mesquite High School on March 21. basis,” he added. And as Jacques continues to schedule During tours, Jacques has hands-on activities for the students, like planting seeds visits, MASH continues to be an ongoing in recyclable egg cartons, and the students research vehicle in food production, waste are given an activity booklet to complete processing, water �iltering and recycling, and power production and management. later. “We can drive to schools, visit museums, “In our �irst two events, we have touched more people than Mars Desert Research libraries, taking our research, and results with us,” Jacques said. Station did in two years,” Jacques said.

at Arcadia High School; Also, Kennise McGertt, 16, of the Red Mountain Branch and sophomore at Mountain View High School; Kayla McNutt, 17, of the Virginia G. Piper Branch and senior at Desert Mountain High School; Jason Nuñez, 17, of the Hartley & Ruth Barker Branch and senior at Coronado High School; and Isabella Treasure, 16, of the Vestar Branch and junior at Pinnacle High School. In the months leading up to the �inal competition, candidates prepared by writing essays and participating in panel interviews with community leaders. The teens also practiced their presentations of their respective Club experiences, personal growth, and transformation, which they each shared on stage at the gala. Proceeds generated from sponsorships, ticket and table sales, auction items and paddle-raiser purchases went directly to fund Club programming. Information: bgcs.org. This year, Jacques has plans to get a freshwater system in place, install two sinks, a composting toilet, and a shower; set up and get algae tanks up and running; set up garden No. 2; and then build a chicken coop. “The chickens are the last big piece,” Jacques said. “We’ll actually have chickens and eggs inside of the bus. We’re only planning maybe four or �ive chickens.” Exposing and educating the public on sustainability is important to Jacques. “Our mission is to build the methodology, and technology to survive, thrive, and grow beyond this Earth,” he said. “We show methodologies that can be applied in school and at home to inspire them to action that could have an impact on our settlements in space.” But Jacques’ overall goal, he said, is to be on the fourth mission to the moon. “EarthSeed actually goes beyond just sustainability in we want to be able to live on the moon, on Mars, the other four destinations and get them settled within the next 50 years,” he said. Jacques added: “EarthSeed’s goal is to actually become like the underground railroad did during the Civil War and actually funnel people who want to go and live in on the moon and Mars. We want to start that. To do that, though, we’ve got to have a methodology.” Information: earthseed.space.

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SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | MARCH 8, 2020 walking paces are welcomed. Information: 480-481-1797.

Cards and games

Enjoy a variety of games including card games 9:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. Appaloosa Library, 7377 E. Silverstone Drive Information: 480-312-7323.

Days MARCH

Sunday

8 Summer camp

The North Scottsdale United Methodist Church is taking applications for a 2020 summer camp from 9 a.m. to noon on June 15 through 19 for children ages 3 to 12. The requested donation is $45 per child for the entire week’s program. This day camp offers energizing music, interactive bible puppetry, super science experiments, creative crafts, hands-on mission work, yummy snacks and active games. The church is located at 11735 N. Scottsdale Road. Information: 480-948-0529.

Comedically Challenged

This comedy event will feature three comedians, including Christ Cluff, Rich Prange and Mike Bolland, at 7 p.m. at The Comedy Spot Comedy Club, 7117 E. 3rd Avenue. Cost is $10. Proceeds will bene�it Parkinson’s disease research and Discount Tire will match the fundraised. Information: www. thecomedyspot.net.

J Purim Carnival

Get excited for the J communitywide Purim Carnival 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Martin Pear JCC in the Valley of the Sun, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road. Information: 480483-7121.

Monday

9 New Faces AA meeting

Find recovery from alcohol addiction alongside this support

Book discussion

group at 7:45 a.m. at North Scottsdale Fellowship Club, 10427 N. Scottsdale Road Club membership is not required to attend meetings.

10:30 a.m. with short stories, �inger-plays and action rhymes at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Information: 480-312-7323.

Treat your dog to a delicious outdoor breakfast, brunch or lunch. The Brunch Cafe at 15507 N. Scottsdale Road is serving $5 Fido Frisbee meals to all well-behaved dogs on their patio 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. brunchcafe.com.

Develop babies’ literacy with songs, rhymes, movement and board books 10-10:20 a.m. at the Arabian Library, 10215 E. McDowell Mountain Ranch Road Information: 480-3127323.

Fido Frisbee Meals

Mustang Poets

Meet with other poets 6-7:45 p.m. at Mustang Library, 10101 N. 90th Street. Information: 480-312-7323.

ESL Class

All conversation levels are encouraged to practice the English language with experienced teachers and other students 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Mustang Library, 10101 N. 90th Street. Information: 480-312-7323.

‘The Good Liar’

Enjoy the drama, “The Good Liar,” 5-7 p.m. at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Information: 480-312-7323.

Tuesday

10 Alzheimer’s support

Caregivers of loved ones living with Alzheimer’s disease can �ind support and encouragement 10-11:30 a.m. at Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road Information: 480481-7090.

Twos and threes

Children 2-3 can learn social and literacy skills from 10 to

Discuss “Everything Here is Beautiful” by Mira T. Lee at 6:15 p.m. at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Information: 480-3127323.

Thursday

Tiny tot time

Mustang writers

Meet with other writers to share and critique writing in a pressure-free and supportive group 9:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. at Mustang Library, 10101 N. 90th Street. Information: 480312-7323.

SCORE mentoring

SCORE’s large network of volunteer business mentors will offer questions to business questions 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Free. Registration is required. Information: 602-745-7250.

Wednesday

11 Speedy bridge

Join others in a fast round of bridge at 10:30 a.m. at Via Linda Senior Center, 10440 E. Via Linda. Registration is required. Information: 480-312-5810.

Walkin’ Wednesdays

Make friends while exercising during a brisk 1.5-mile walk through The J neighborhood 9-10 a.m. at Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road Bring water and walking shoes and meet at the campus’ �lagpole. Strollers, dogs and all

Tai Chi

Everyone is welcome to join a class that focuses on gentle and controlled movements that center the mind, body and spirit for health bene�its 3-3:45 p.m. at Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers, 8880 E. Desert Cove Avenue. Information: 480-3146660.

Horse show

Steeped in history and tradition, the Southwest’s 49th annual premier all-breed horse show will take place from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Mar. 12 through 15 at WestWorld Equestrian facility, 16601 N. Pima Road

Little libros

Children up to 5 can learn fun songs, stories and rhymes in English and Spanish from 10 to 10:30 a.m. at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Information: 480312-7323.

Books can

This unique literacy program for children up to 4 uses popular picture books, rhymes and songs to teach children 10:30-11:15 a.m. at Rio Montaña Park, 11180 N. 132nd Street.

Friday

13 In stitches knitters

Gather with other knitters to

work on individual projects, share advice and talk with others 1-3 p.m. at Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Information: 480-312-7323.

Advanced beginner bridge

Join others in playing a fun game of bridge 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. at Appaloosa Library, 7377 E. Silverstone Drive Information: 480-3127323.

Chair yoga

Achieve liberation through physical postures, breath practice, meditation and philosophical study. Join a class to better physical health 1-2 p.m. at Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers, 8880 E. Desert Cove Avenue. Information: 480-314-6660.

Saturday

14 Littlest Scientists

Children 2 to 5 can enjoy a scientific world of discovery through exploration and play 10:30 a.m.-noon at the SArabian Library, 10215 E. McDowell Mountain Ranch Road Space is limited, so please see a staff person prior to the start of the program to pick up a ticket which will be your registration. Information: 480-312-7323.

Family storytime

Children up to 5 and their caregivers can listen to stories and music and participate in rhyming activities 10:30-11 a.m. at Appaloosa Library, 7377 E. Silverstone Drive Information: 480-312-7323.

Irrigation, maintenance and troubleshooting repair

Learn the basics of good maintenance practice for keeping landscape irrigation systems running smoothly from irrigation specialist Jeff Lee 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at Mustang Library, 10101 N. 90th Street. Information: 480-312-7323.

Sunday

15 Story stop

Build children’s literacy with a free picture book program 2-2:15 p.m. at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Information: 480-312-7323.

Basketball league

Young basketball players will participate in 10 weeks of skill development and exciting game play weekly with sessions noon5 p.m. on Sundays in March. Times vary depending on the players grade level. Cost is $135 to $190.

Monday

16 Business Energizer

Learn about setting weekly goals and generate business ideas with fellow business owners 9-10 a.m. This group meets virtually. To join, meet the group online through the “Monday Business Energizer” group LinkedIn page. Free. Information: edgar@compasscbs.com.

Guitar club

Kids 8 to 13 can learn guitar basics including warm-up techniques, tuning, hand positions, note-reading and more 4-5 p.m. at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. No prior experience needed. Participants are encouraged to attend the class for six weeks. Information: 480-312-7323.

Books 2 boogie

Children up to 5 and their caregivers are invited to participate in music, movement and song 10-10:30 a.m. at Mustang Library, 10101 N. 90th Street. Information: 480-312-7323.

ESL class

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SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | MARCH 8, 2020

Beauty pros �ind a new place to work their magic BY KRISTINE CANNON Progress Staff Writer

North

n Valentine’s Day, Salon Sco ttsdale Plaza, the nation’s leading salon suite franchise, quietly opened the doors to its newest location in northern Scottsdale. Located at the corner of Scottsdale Road and Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Salon Plaza Scottsdale is home to 48 private, spacious suites for a variety of healthy, beauty, and wellness professionals. So far, 25 percent of those suits are leased by salon owners – or what Salon Plaza calls members. “Scottsdale is home to many prominent beauty and wellness professionals with the desire to launch their own business,” said co-owner Betsy Duge. “Salon Plaza is the perfect opportunity for these professionals with the ability to create their own hours and work independently within the private suites.” Duge opened the location and manages daily operations alongside coowner Breanne Brubaker. “The Scottsdale community has been anticipating the launch of our Salon Plaza, and we’re looking for- Betsy Duge is the co-owner of Salon Plaza in northern Scottsdale. Salon Plaza Scottsdale is the second location in the state; the other is located in Glendale. ward to seeing our members show (Chris Mortenson/Progress Staff Photographer) their talents to the community,” Brubaker said. ented salon professionals.” include everyone from hairstylists to Dude and Brubaker also manage the According to recent reports, the professionals who offer traditional Salon Plaza in Glendale, which boasts global beauty industry is a $532 billion Chinese medicine. 27 suites and 100 percent occupancy business with the global beauty and “We’re such a global society. We’re with a short waitlist. personal care products market expect- being made aware of all of these dif“We’re very successful over there,” ed to grow to $756 billion by 2026. ferent ways to take care of yourself Duge said. “We’re considering exMore specifically, the hair salon in- and people are interested in as well,” panding over at that location as well.” dustry’s market size this year is $47 Duge said. Salon Plaza is the only salon complex billion. Duge added what sets the Scottsdale to offer fully-equipped suites featuring a According to a report published location apart from the Glendale locastyle station and styling chair, shampoo by Fior Markets, factors driving the tion is it boasts more “holistic-type sink and chair, color station with sepa- global beauty and personal care prod- wellness.” rate sink for dispensing, and storage. uct market include “rising preference “It’s not just hair,” she said. “You want Members also have access to a for organic beauty and personal care your insides to match what you’re lookstrong referral network and ongoing products, increasing aging popula- ing or feeling on the outside.” training and support to grow and de- tion, and rising concern over appearDuge, who spent many years as a velop their business. ance.” hairstylist herself, calls the opportu“We offer great opportunities for “It isn’t just beauty; it’s self-care nity to be a franchisee for Salon Plaza professionals who are inspired to and wellness. We’re all trying to be a “dream come true.” thrive on their own,” Brubaker said. more open-minded about self-care,” “You start off always wanting your “There is a demand for high-end salon Duge said. own salon, and I watched my tradisuites that offer privacy, style and talSalon Plaza Scottsdale’s members tional salon owners, and their busi-

ness model was not what I anticipated I would want as a salon. So, I stepped back; I couldn’t foresee owning a traditional salon anymore,” Duge said. But with Salon Plaza, she is able to work in the salon industry and help other members grow their business. “This is my soul. It’s where I started at 17 years old; and I can help people, but I’m not their boss. They’re their own boss. I can help them with their business and do everything I can to make sure their spaces are what it needs to be and help them facilitate,” Duge said. Salon Plaza Scottsdale not only comprises members who Duge calls family, but it’s also family-run. Duge’s father and Brubaker’s fatherin-law are partners in ownership as well as the architects for the franchise. “The two families are partnered up, and the younger generation is running the show. That’s how we got started,” Duge said. “Our families have known each other since I was born.” Salon Plaza Scottsdale will host a grand opening celebration once it reaches 60 percent occupancy. “We also let the members participate in their own mini grand opening,” Duge said. “This is not about me; this is not about our business. This is for you to make your business.” Salon Plaza currently has 25 locations across the country in states such as Maryland, Virginia, Florida, and Texas, as well as more than 700 members. The Salon Plaza franchise locations are franchised through Suite Management Franchising, a franchise ownership group with two leading concepts, including Salon Plaza and MY SALON Suite. “It’s a second home to me,” Duge said of Salon Plaza. “We built it. I lived in there while it was under construction and brought it to life.”

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Salon Plaza Where: 7077 E. Bell Road, Ste. 200 Phone: 602-264-0043 Website: salonplaza.com

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High school �ilmmakers now in �ilm fest BY KRISTINE CANNON Progress Staff Writer

South

very year for more than 20 S cottsda years, the Scottsdale Short le Film Festival has showcased the best student short �ilms of the academic year created by Scottsdale School of Film+Theatre students at Scottsdale Community College. “Festival attendees always enjoy the highly creative and diverse �ilms made by student �ilmmakers while celebrating the craft,” said Bill True, department chair of the Scottsdale School of Film+Theatre, in a prepared statement. But this year, the festival has been expanded to include award categories speci�ically for local high school students. “Many high school students interested in �ilmmaking are already working on �ilm and video projects, so it was a natural decision to open the Scottsdale Short Film Festival to include and recognize their emerging voices,” True said. SCC will award-winning high school �ilmmakers with a free, three-credithour course taught by the Scottsdale The Film+Theatre School hosted a number of high school students for an orientation event that featured a complete producSchool of Film+Theatre — a $285 value tion set with cameras, lighting, background, and more on full display. (Chris Mortenson/Progress Staff Photographer) for each award. Three prizes total will be awarded to high school students. On Feb. 28, the Film+Theatre School “Writing A Successful Short Film” hosted a number of high school stuWhen: March 19 at 6 p.m. dents for an orientation event featuring Where: Scottsdale Community College, a complete production set with cameras, Film School Hub Building, 9000 E. Chaplighting, background, and more on full arral Road Cost: Free display. Faculty also gave students an overview Scottsdale Film+Theatre School Open of the �ilmmaking process at the event. House Coming up on March 19, SCC is ofWhen: April 2, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. fering a free training session taught Where: Scottsdale Community College, by True called “Writing A Successful Film School Hub Building, 9000 E. ChapShort Film” at the Film School Hub arral Road Cost: Free (FSH) Building. Later, on April 2, the Film+Theatre Scottsdale Short Film Festival School will host an orientation event Joseph Keeble, Cage and Technical Manager at SCC’s Scottsdale School of Film + When: May 6 at 7:30 p.m. Theatre, talks to high school students at the School’s orientation event. (Chris Mortenson/ also at the FSH Building. Where: Harkins Camelview at Fashion Progress Staff Photographer) At this open house event, the general Square 14, 7014 E. Camelback Road public will have the opportunity to meet Scottsdale Short Film Festival at 7:30 tendees can participate in special comTickets: $12 faculty, alumni, advisors, and more, as p.m. on May 6 at Harkins Camelview at mentary and Q&A sessions with SCC Website: scottsdalecc.edu/short-ﬁlm-fest well as attend a free educational session Fashion Square 14. faculty members, alumni, and industry where they’ll learn how to create a short Tickets to the Festival are $12. professionals. �ile by April 20. There is no cost to enter �ilm and receive general tips on how to In addition to viewing both narrative To have a �ilm considered for the Festi- a �ilm. produce a winning submission. and documentary �ilms spanning all val, all participants must complete an ofFor complete contest details, visit All winning �ilms will be shown at the genres, Scottsdale Short Film Festival at- �icial entry form and upload their .MOV scottsdalecc.edu/short-�ilm-fest.

If you go

BUSINESS

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | MARCH 8, 2020

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New salon combine self-care, coaching BY KRISTINE CANNON Progress Staff Writer

outhern Scottsdale resident Melissa Pruett thought changing the world and saving lives was as a scalpel-gripping heart surgeon, cutting people’s chest open and performing heart surgery. Instead, Pruett is changing lives with a microblade pen and her thriving self-care studio MELT by Melissa, which celebrated the grand opening of its new location on the corner Main and 75th Street on Jan. 11 and the grand opening of the Gypsy Cup coffee shop tucked inside the studio on March 1. “So many women leave changed after one service; the way that those women carry themselves into the world is totally different. And that, in a small way, is my way of changing the world,” Pruett said.

Pruett founded Melt in January 2014 in a shared, closet-sized treatment room. She has since grown it into a successful, multi-faceted business, one that occupies a 2,600-square-foot space in Old Town Scottsdale. But owning a self-care salon that specializes in brows wasn’t Pruett’s initial goal in life. “I was planning on going to med school my whole life to be a heart surgeon,” she said. “I never thought of a plan B.” Pruett decided she’d move from Oregon to Arizona to do some soul searching before she pulled the trigger on medical school; little did she know that would entail taking on unexpected jobs, including car salesperson, �itness and nutrition coach, and waxer.

Melissa Pruett is the founder and owner of Melt by Melissa, a selfcare studio that recently opened its new space in Old Town Scottsdale and will opened its second location in Uptown Phoenix later this year. (Chris Mortenson/ Progress Staff Photographer)

�� MELT �� 30

Progress publisher acquires New River newspaper PROGRESS NEWS STAFF

imes Media Group, a Valley-based company with community weekly newspapers and websites throughout Arizona and California, has acquired The Foothills Focus, a community news weekly based in New River. In addition to New River, the publication covers several other North Valley communities, including Anthem, Black Canyon City, Cave Creek and Carefree. According to Times Media of�icials, the acquisition brings its weekly Valleywide circulation to 285,000 printed copies, information it says is supported by its most recent AMA independent circulation audit. The company also operates several community news websites in the Valley, including EastValley.com, WestValleyView.com, Phoenix.org, Scottsdale.org,

Ahwatukee.com, ChandlerNews.com and others with a cumulative monthly unique visitor count in the Valley of more than 500,000. The company said its online audience numbers are also supported by its most recent independent audit by AMA. At a time when many newspaper-centric media companies are curtailing circulation and managing declining operations, Times Media Group has famously continued to expand its reach and footprint, mostly through the acquisition of other similar media groups. “What we have found is a model for success in dif�icult times, and that model relies heavily on highly motivated media professionals, adherence to practical cost structures and a valuebased community news engine at its core,” said Steve Strickbine, Times Me-

dia Group’s founder and president. Last year, Times Media Group acquired several high-pro�ile and storied news titles in the Los Angeles and San Diego areas, which included the Downtown Los Angeles News, the Pasadena Weekly, the Argonaut and the Ventura County Reporter, among others. John Alexander, the founder and publisher of The Foothills Focus, said his decision to sell his publication to Times Media wasn’t a dif�icult one. “I have watched what they’re doing for a long time, and after some consideration, really believe this to be a great path for us,” he said. “It allows us to grow and allows me more time to meaningfully reconnect with the community and to build even stronger relationships with our advertisers." Alexander, who founded the paper in

2002, will continue to act as the Focus’s associate publisher, and work out of the publication’s main of�ice in New River as he has for nearly 20 years. Asked where he thought the community news industry is headed in the everchanging digital age, Strickbine said: “The bottom line is that where there are crises, there also often exist out-of-date ways of thinking or paradigms. Our approach, our people and our commitment to giving communities the news they need, and that they can increasingly �ind in few other places, adds up to a pretty simple value proposition, one I believe readers and advertisers understand inherently and that they’ve come to trust. “At TMG we hold the responsibility of being good stewards of that trust at the very center of our mission. “In other words, our future is bright,” he said.

BUSINESS

MELT �� 29

“When I decided to go to aesthetic school,” Pruett said, “everyone in my program were all there to do facials and real skincare, which they loved. And I loved ripping people’s hair out about waxing. Something about it was so ful�illing to me and so satiating, which sounds really creepy, but I loved frosting people with this warm wax and there’s a true art to it when you’re removing it.” But, after spending less than two months waxing in a corporate environment, she quit and started MELT. MELT fuses Pruett’s two passions: coaching and her niche, brows. MELT not only specializes self-care services such as brows, microblading, lashes, botanical skin care, sugar hair removal, and organic spray tans ranging in price from $12 for a lip wax to $850 for microblading; but Pruett also coaches people through Melt Academy. Through Melt Academy, professionals can take courses on microblading and lash extensions. “I’m not running a school. I’m not running a licensed program. I’m not running any sort of certi�ication. I make it really

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | MARCH 8, 2020

clear to the girls who do come to me that I’m really just coaching him. It’s more of like a mentorship program,” Pruett explained, adding that the people who register for Melt Academy are already licensed professionals. “These are women who are empowered. These are women who have honed in on their craft. These are women and men who are able to live a really beautiful life doing what they love,” she said. Pruett maintains the relationships she forms with these women and men, too. For example, one woman who attended the Academy moved to Denver, and Pruett continues to coach her. “We are on a call once a week. I’m coaching her on building her brand and building a business,” Pruett said, adding, “I’m here for you as someone who’s actually gone through what you’re going to go through, and I’m here to teach you how you can avoid some of the hard lessons I had to learn.” Pruett also has a full cosmetics line of brow and lip products, which she sells instudio and online. Launched in September 2016, the cosmetics line boasts more than 20 different products, ranging from brow gels, brow

powder shades, and brow brushes, to liquid matte lipstick, gloss, eye cream, and more. “My products are formulated in Toronto and Canada because, in Canada, they’ve banned over 1,600 known toxins and carcinogens from their cosmetics that are heavily regulated; whereas here, we’ve banned, like, 11,” Pruett explained. Pruett also sells Suzi Provenché’s skincare line, Joëlle Martine, which is comprised of 12 products, including cleansers, toners, moisturizers, and more, that range in price from $35 to $95. In October, Pruett will open a second Melt location at a redevelopment project located on Missouri Avenue in North Central Phoenix called The Frederick. Currently an of�ice building, the midcentury building will be transformed into a neighborhood retail center consisting of a restaurant, a cafe, and eight small businesses. “I have chills, literally, because it’s going to be really freakin’ magical,” Pruett said. Pruett also plans to launch a podcast with Gypsy Cup co-owner Linsay Smith. “A big goal for ours is just to have a greater reach, not just with me doing the service on one person or her serving a cof-

fee to one person, but to really get out all the good juice to more people through our voice and engage with our community,” Pruett said. They haven’t decided on a name for the podcast yet, but Pruett does hope to empower others through the podcast. “We’re both on this path of not just being women entrepreneurs and building that life, but we both have these lofty dreams and visions,” Pruett said. In the meantime, Melt will continue to do what it does best: help its customers look and feel their best. “Self-care is not a luxury; it is a human right, and we all need it,” Pruett said. “Now, time is more precious to people than money, 10 out of 10 times. We’re seeing the shift and people actually understanding, in order for me to do all the things I want to do and to be the person I need to be, I need to take care of myself �irst.”

If You Go

MELT by Melissa Where: 7500 E. Main St. Call: 480-819-8535 Website: meltbymelissa.com

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OPINION

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Letters

Neighbor outlines issues with repair shop

have written this letter to the editor to clarify his questions to me regarding the article on 3-1-20 in which it was corrected online but not in print due to the deadline issue on the article “Auto shop, resident face off over code issues”. It was stated that there was a restraining order against me and the business, and as usual again another lie from this property owner. I have never been served with any such order in my life and that can be simply veri�ied with the police department. Also, the comment of me appearing at his business holding a gun is yet another

Are you a Veteran or have trouble affording conventional dental implant fees??

lie by this owner. Yes, I do carry a gun and with society today I prefer to be able to protect myself or another in an event of need. My weapon was on my belt and never left its holster at any time during our conversation. I am a registered gun owner and have gone through the training programs and take my refresher courses every two years to maintain my license. So the property owner who opened his business in violation of our zoning ordinances and got caught was required to now obtain a conditional use permit

in which it is stated that all vehicles for repair are required to be enclosed in a screened off or walled area, but he continually parks his vehicles on the street in violation of his permit. So now three years later in this issue, the Code Enforcement department now says they cannot do anything about the vehicles he parks in the street, go �igure. The council and mayor are stated as not receptive to revoking his permit even though they have three years of documented violations, go �igure yet again. The Transportation Department is not

receptive to placing no parking signs on a small stretch of road that is only used by the property owner to violate his permit, go �igure yet again. If you would like to add your name to the citizens petition to revoke his permit just e-mail me at F8713@aol.com, saying “I am signing the petition” and just include your name and zip code. All e-mail addresses will be cut out of the submission to the council. Let’s face it, we must start somewhere and stand up for our communities, because the city sure won’t do it. - Michael Merrill

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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‘Sweeney Todd’ energizes theater troupe BY KRISTINE CANNON Progress Staff Writer

n honor of American composer Stephen Sondheim’s 90th birthday, the Scottsdale Musical Theater Company will round out its 10th anniversary season with a production of “Sweeney Todd.” But this isn’t your typical production of “Sweeney Todd.” “This is a concert version, which just basically means there’s no sets rolling on and off or tracking. There’s no backdrop flying in and out. The orchestra will be on stage, and then the action will go on in front of the orchestra,” explained SMTC Executive Producer David Hock. “Sweeney Todd: In Concert” will be presented March 31 and April 1 for the first time at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. “I really liked the idea of the encore presentation model of concert versions, and

Cast members of the upcoming Scottsdale Musical Theater Company (SMTC) production of “Sweeney Todd: In Concert” and Executive Director David Hock (far right) pose at SMTC’s new venue, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts fits that format better,” Hock said. “This move ... is a very exciting development for SMTC and our audiences.” SMTC’s previous productions were at Tempe Center for the Arts, but because Hock plans to pursue the encore presentation model, he will continue to rent the Virginia G. Piper Theater at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. “What has typically set SMTC apart from the other theaters in town is I’ve always used a live orchestra,” Hock said, adding that he uses a full live 20-plus-piece orchestra. “It’s the full arrangements as they were written for the original Broadway show. “It’s just a different way of approaching doing the shows — more intimate because you don’t have everything moving around,” he added.

see SMTC page 34

(Chris Mortenson/Progress Staff Photographer)

Maya brand evolved from ballet and bartending BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ Progress Staff Writer

imi Jasperson’s parents enrolled her in ballet and tap classes when she was 4. There was no turning back for the Chicago native. “Wow, talk about love at first sight, or more specifically at first toe tap,” said Jasperson, who now lives in Scottsdale. As a teen, she successfully auditioned and joined Ballet North, an Illinois dance company for young ballet dancers to learn technique. It was dance that brought her to the Valley in 2009. “I was accepted into Arizona State University’s acclaimed fine arts program to study dance performance and choreog-

It is all fun and games for Jasperson, who leads Maya like a director leads a Broadway play. (Photo by Alison Bailin Batz)

raphy,” said Jasperson, who found her next great loves in school. First, she found Zachary Jasperson. “Yes, I married my college sweetheart,” Jasperson said. It happened during her senior year, when she took a job as a cocktail server in Scottsdale for extra money. That “part-time job” changed her life. “This is going to sound a little odd, but as I moved up the ranks in the hospitality world, I started to make the connection that an efficient bar is not unlike a perfectly choreographed dance,” Jasperson said. “There is a beautiful rhythm to it that captured me within my first few months behind the bar.” One of her favorite parts of this new “dance” that she was learning: the art

and science that goes into mixology. “Here I am, just credits into graduating and thinking I had my entire life planned out. Then – bam! – a new passion exploded within me,” Jasperson said. “I know they say life happens when you are busy doing other things, but I never thought this would be me.” So, though she did finish her degree, she doubled down on her passion for hospitality, growing through some of Old Town’s greatest hospitality groups. She earned a position with Maya Day + Night Club in 2017. “I joke that there I began my master’s degree, because it was the education of a lifetime in all things mixology, manage-

see MIMI page 34

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | MARCH 8, 2020

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

SMTC �� page 32

This is cast member Jason Chacon’s first time performing in the musical. He will perform the lead role of Sweeney Todd. “While I’ve always loved the music and the show itself, I’ve never gotten the opportunity to study it and perform it. It’s really exciting!” Chacon said. When Hock approached Chacon with the idea of a staged concert version of “Sweeney Todd” late last year, Chacon said it was too good of an opportunity to pass up. “This show is really unlike anything else in musical theater. The musical motifs, the subject matter: It’s all delightfully macabre and unconventional,” Chacon said. “Sweeney is one of those dream roles for any baritone worth their salt, and it’s a challenge to say the least.” Hock agrees, saying that “Sweeney Todd” is the most intricate and most challenging music for the performers. “The music alone has so many key changes and abrupt time signature shifts. Sondheim’s score is truly a work of genius, no matter how tedious it can be,” Chacon added. “Then you have to factor in the character himself. The journey he’s been through and to be able to take yourself to some pretty uncomfortable places... It’s really all that any actor can ask for.” Chacon was last seen with SMTC guest starring opposite Peter Scolari in “Man of La Mancha.” “I’m a highly competitive person by nature, so seeing Peter work with such intensity kicked in those instincts and absolutely made me a better actor. It made me shift into a whole other gear as far as emotional prep work and getting into the drama of the story. He’s an immensely talented artist, as proof of his lengthy and illustrious career demonstrates,” Chacon said.

MIMI �� page 32

ment, service and even the psychology of people both in front of and behind the bar top,” Jasperson said. Jasperson leads the Maya brand – its Day Club, Nightclub and winter Clubhouse at Maya concept – in Scottsdale, helping drive the cocktail, dining and entertainment menu seven days a week. “Clubhouse has been one of my babies,” said Jasperson, who helped develop the idea with her team. For those unfamiliar with the brands, every spring and summer, Maya Day

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | MARCH 8, 2020

Performing the role of Mrs. Lovett is Elizabeth Blair, who was last seen with SMTC starring opposite Cory McCloskey in “Pajama Game” last summer. “She is such a meaty role,” Blair said. “As an actress, there is so much to play with, so many sides and such a rich storyline. As a singer, it’s very rangy and such fun to sing!” “It’s been my favorite musical since I was 7 or so. While everyone else was singing ‘Tomorrow’ from ‘Annie,’ I was singing ‘The Ballad of Sweeney Todd,’” Blair said. “The music of Sondheim has always spoken to me above all other composers, and though I didn’t truly understand the dark side of humanity at that young age, something in me recognized that this piece as special.” Hock chose “Sweeney Todd” to celebrate SMTC’s 10th anniversary because it’s the most recognizable Sondheim musical. But what makes this particular production so special for Hock is it features performers who have been with SMTC since its inception. “While SMTC is by no means a community theater, they have been able to maintain the purity of one. There are many artists who return time and again to the company because they just have to scratch that performing itch, and they’ve found a group they like doing it with,” Chacon said. For Chacon, SMTC is where his acting journey began. “When I walked in to that first rehearsal in the fall of 2011, I had no idea what I was doing. I didn’t know what an octave was. I didn’t have any training. But by the end of the process, I had garnered a bit of confidence. Since then I’ve tried to grow both professionally and personally from every project I’m a part of. That began with SMTC and it’s something I’m grateful to come back to,” he said.

Club is the biggest Vegas-style pool party in Arizona. Then at night, the space transforms into Maya Nightclub, which brings top entertainers and DJs from around the country to the desert. “Clubhouse as the new kid on the block, really launched in earnest this past fall. It’s come together like a perfectly planned production for us,” Jasperson says. “Imagine the world’s greatest backyard party. Now, imagine it 10 times bigger and better than that.” The 14,000-square-foot, dog-friendly space required them to fully (and safely) cover the Olympic-sized pool that usu-

SMTC started in the Shiloh Community Church gym in Phoenix with 50 to 75 folding chairs. “I was Big Jule in SMTC’s ‘Guys and Dolls’ back when it was in the gymnasium of a church,” Chacon recalled. With more than 30 years' experience in theater, Hock has helmed a total of four theater companies — one in Los Angeles, one in Las Vegas, and one in San Francisco. He attributes the success of SMTC, so far, to both the talent and the environment he’s created. “I have a thing called ‘same, but different’ where I never want anything done the same way. I don’t want a line read the same way. I don’t want them to relate to each other the same way. It gives the performers 100 percent freedom within the story and within the characters to do whatever they want. That’s hard for a lot of performers to have to think on their feet and be that creative all the time. But I think that’s what’s kept SMTC fresh and going,” Hock explained. SMTC kicked off its 10th anniversary season with “Thoroughly Modern Millie” last April and will round out the season with “Camelot” in late August. “Days of Our Lives” and “The Nanny” actor Charles Shaughnessy will play the lead role of King Arthur. “I’m very close with Charles now. Him coming back out to do another show for me is just more fun than anything. He really loves working with the SMTC performers,” Hock said. Following “Sweeney Todd: In Concert,” Hock will begin filming a television show called “L.A. Mix” with Shaughnessy. The show follows the lives of a diverse group of people living in a converted loft building in downtown Los Angeles. “We get to see their struggles in their personal lives and their professional lives,”

ally lives on property, as well as re-imagine every detail, ingredient and even artwork and menus from top to bottom. “In place of the pool, we’ve built a treehouse-themed bar, which specializes in shareable cocktails, beer cocktails and food meant to be enjoyed with friends,” Jasperson says. Cozy furniture with a nod to Americana takes over the space. Jasperson and her team also brought in more than two dozen flat-screen televisions so fall sports can be enjoyed by guests. Beyond the flat screens and footballthemed activities and specials, there is

Hock said. “It’s not a reality show; it’s a drama. And the episodes are only 12 or 15 minutes long.” Hock, Shaughnessy, and Shaughnessy’s brother, David Shaughnessy, recently founded a production company called Dynamic Digital Content Worldwide in late 2019. They begin filming “L.A. Mix” in April, and all seven episodes will be available on a streaming service sometime in May. SMTC musical director Joni Van Rossum will compose music for the TV show. “The goal will be to do a lot of content that has this clickability, which no one’s used before,” Hock said. “While you’re watching the show, let’s say you see the handbag or the dress of your favorite character, and you go, ‘I love that dress,’ you will be able to touch your screen on your phone or your tablet or click on your computer and, without stopping the show, it’ll save that dress and it’ll take you directly to the website where you can buy it,” Hock explained. Hock said the other goal is to franchise “L.A. Mix.” “So, there’ll be an ‘L.A. Mix,’ ‘San Francisco Mix,’ ‘Dallas Mix,’ ‘Chicago Mix,” he said. “There will be a new series that takes place in a different urban city.” Information: scottsdalemusicaltheater.com

If you go “Sweeney Todd: In Concert” When: March 31 and April 1, 7:30 p.m. Where: Virginia G. Piper Theater, 7380 E. 2nd Street Tickets: $48-$62 Website: scottsdaleperformingarts. org

pop art on nearly every wall, all begging to be the background of a selfie or photo opportunity with friends. There is also comic strip room, , featuring floor-to-ceiling comics one might see in a newspaper as well as foosball and air hockey. There are also giant-sized Jenga games on picnic tables throughout the venue, and several cornhole games as well as shuffleboard, ping pong and oversized Connect Four. Finally, there is also a concession area in addition to the traditional menu with cotton candy, popcorn, waffle sticks, hot dogs and street tacos.

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Wow Wow Lemonade making a splash BY KRISTINE CANNON Progress Staff Writer

ince Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade moved its headquarters from Maui, Hawaii, to Scottsdale in March 2019, the farmer’s market stand-turnedtrailer lemonade purveyor has quickly captured the taste buds of Phoenicians with its handcrafted mason jar lemonades, refreshing açaí bowls, healthy avocado toasts, and overnight oats. One year later, Wow Wow has not only expanded its menu, adding new drinks, bowls and spritzers, but it’s also expanding throughout the state with 18 new locations scheduled to open over the next 18 months. Five will open by the end of this year, including Lake Pleasant, Surprise, Moon Valley, Gilbert and Peoria. “We have to honor our amazing customers �irst and foremost,” said Tim Weiderhoft, chief executive of�icer at Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonades. “We are very grateful for their patronage of our stands and the positive vibes we get on all of our social media channels.” On March 16, Wow Wow will release three new menu items for a limited time:

Tim Weiderhoft is the chief executive ofﬁcer at Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonades. An existing Wow Wow franchisee and franchise industry veteran who most recently served as Vice President of Franchise Development at Arizona-based Massage Envy, Weiderhoft is charged with growing the brand throughout the state. (Chris Mortenson/Progress Staff Photographer)

the Passion Colada Smoothie, Passion Colada Lemonade and the Passion Colada Bowl. “We will be highlighting new recipes and seasonal offerings that are on trend with our core values of craft, raw, and delicious,” Weiderhoft said. Wow Wow will also release its own line of spritzers this month, including Tropi-

cal Fizz with strawberry, mango and mint �lavors; Kiwi Splash with kiwi, cucumber, strawberry and mint; and Blueberry Lemon Fizz with blueberry, lemon and basil. “We are committed to bringing additional new items and food categories in the coming months and have planned for quarterly releases in all of our stands,”

active displays; Classico Fine Wines & Spirits’ drinks and the Italian Auto d’Eleganza showcase of �ine Italian automobiles. The festival, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, March 14, and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, March 15, is along East Jackson Street between 4th Street and 1st Street in downtown Phoenix, south of Talking Stick Resort Arena. Portion of proceeds bene�its the nonpro�it Italian Association of Arizona and its mission to build an Italian Cultural Center. “We moved to Phoenix for a lot of reasons, the biggest being the crowds were getting

bigger and we were running into space issues,” said Frank Guzzo, Italian Association of Arizona executive director. “We don’t want to move it every year. We want to be in one location and build it from there. We started talking to the City of Phoenix and Downtown Phoenix Inc. and we all made the decision to move the festival to Downtown Phoenix. “Downtown Phoenix is exploding. It’s become such a vibrant place, compared to 10 years ago. We do want to capture the same people who have been coming to our festi-

Weiderhoft said. “We are excited about our continual innovation with new beverage, bowl, and healthy bites options coming every few months.” Charged with growing the brand throughout the state, Weiderhoft is currently seeking quali�ied franchise partners to open restaurants in Old Town/southern Scottsdale, Tempe, Chandler, Biltmore/ Arcadia, downtown Phoenix, Flagstaff and Tucson. According to a press release, the new franchise locations will create approximately 200 new jobs. “With its 350 days of sunshine a year, Arizona is the quintessential market for expansion for Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonades,” Weiderhoft said. “Plus, just last year lemonade was named the Of�icial Drink of Arizona. We are proud to grow in our home state and offer Arizonans the opportunity to grow a business with unlimited potential.” Outside the state, Wow Wow will open its Livermore, California, location by the end of April with its Albuquerque, New Mexico, location coming shortly after.

�� WOW WOW �� 37

Italian Fest: no regrets leaving Scottsdale

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Progress Staff Writer

he Italian Festival of America is bringing its celebration of food, culture and entertainment to Downtown Phoenix next weekend after several years in Scottsdale. Italophiliacs can experience la dolce vita with two stages of entertainment, including cooking demonstrations; musical entertainment featuring Italian �lag wavers and dancing; Peroni Nastro Assuro’s inter-

val for the past six years, plus a whole new demographic.” The organization also partnered with the Scottsdale Airpark’s R Entertainment to help with the event’s production. “Everybody, though, comes here for the food,” Guzzo said. “I love the food, even though I’m running around like a chicken without a head. I don’t have time to eat, but that makes the festival. The food is quality Italian food. That’s what we pride ourselves on.” Information: italianfestivalaz.com

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WOW WOW �� 36

“We opened our own location on March 15 of 2019 after around 10 months of planning and preparing. We have absolutely loved being stand owners and when the opportunity to purchase the entire company arose, my partners at C&G Franchise Development jumped at the opportunity and saw �it to place me as the CEO,” Weiderhoft added. “It’s been an amazing ride so far,” he added. What sets Wow Wow apart is its dedication to serving raw, fresh products and offering only organic pure cane sugar in its sweetened drinks. “We take pride in serving real fresh food, not a chemical version of something,” he said, adding: As an example, we only use real fruits and plants for our lemonades including all the different color variations we have. We also use fresh basil, mint leaves, butter�ly pea �lower, and lavender, to name a few, to give �loral coloring, �lavor, and essence to our products instead of fake chemical based coloring and other unhealthy practices.” Sustainability is also important to Wow Wow. It has its Mason Jar Re�ill Program, where guests can order their lemonades

“Our development focus is based on concentrating in the southwest, including Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, and Hawaii. We have a ton of interest coming from Texas and we plan to open in that market soon as well,” Weiderhoft said. Founded in Hawaii in 2012, Wow Wow opened its �irst brick and mortar store in 2014 and opened its �irst licensed store on the mainland two years later. Following the launch of its franchise in 2017, Wow Wow now has six lemonade stands domestically and two internationally in Japan. Weiderhoft, a Desert Ridge community resident, was an existing Wow Wow franchisee and franchise industry veteran who most recently served as vice president of franchise development at Arizona-based Massage Envy. He was appointed CEO in Wow Wow last year. “I started consulting for a little while and as I started doing more and more consulting and understanding the business more, I went, ‘This is pretty cool. I love what this person’s about. I love the culture of this,’” Weiderhoft said, adding that he met Wow Wow founder Todd Casselberry by chance.

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or smoothies in a re-usable Mason jar and receive a discount on their next purchase if they bring the Mason jar back to reuse. And they also use recyclable materials in its serving containers. Wow Wow’s Coconut Bowl Reuse Program will launch sometime this summer. “As we looked at our trends with customer buying habits it became clear that our açaí bowls are just as important as our lemonades to our regular customers. With the opportunity to take a large category and decrease the waste even further by replicating what has been successful with lemonade only made sense to us,” Weider-

If you go

Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade Where: 6501 E. Greenway Pkwy., #152 Call: 480-508-6036 Website: wowwowhawaiianlemonade. com

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Clear Title Agency bringing new technology to real estate closings By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski Clear Title Agency of Arizona has introduced a tech-savvy solution for depositing earnest funds during a real estate transaction. The Arizona-based company has teamed up with the application provider Zoccam to bring customers enhanced options that utilize technology to improve the real estate closing process. This new technology being offered by Clear Title, allows earnest money to be deposited via mobile app using a photo of the check. The earnest money deposit is a key step to officially opening escrow during a real estate transaction. Clear Title Agency Executive Vice President Mike Winters says his company saw the need in the marketplace and took the initiative to find a solution. “We open thousands of real estate transactions each year and we listen to feedback from those customers,” Winters says. “This type of thing has been around in consumer banking but not been available when accepting deposits for earnest funds during a real estate transaction. It’s new and unique to our industry. As a locally owned and operated company we are proud to be leading on this and bringing new technology to the market.” The mobile app is easy, he adds. Customers can download the free app from the App store for Apple users, or Google Play for Android devices. Once they download the app, they create an account and take a photo of their check to deposit earnest money needed to start the escrow process. “Prior to this technology, title companies needed to be in possession of the physical check to receipt in earnest money. With this new technology, the process is expedited saving everyone valuable time.

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hoft said. “There is a responsibility that all of us have to do as much as possible for our communities and our families and we believe that by being as sustainable as possible, we are helping both,” he added.

Locally owned and operated, Clear Title Agency of Arizona provides full-service residential and commercial title and escrow services with multiple locations across the Valley and in Flagstaff. The company has been recognized by Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies and Phoenix Business Journal’s Best Places to Work numerous times and ranks in the top 1% of all First American agents nationally.

For more information, visit cleartitleaz.com.

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This BBQ pork recipe may become a home favorite

t’s called Char Siu (pronounced “Char Sue”). But we know it as Chinese BBQ Pork and it’s one of the most popular items on a Chinese restaurant menu. I never thought of making it at home; it seemed complicated and intimidating. But when I finally decided to give it a try, I quickly found it is neither. It’s a fun, simple dish that ends up tasting exactly like the restaurant version! While it seems as though there are a lot of ingre-

dients, it’s mostly inexpensive bottles of things like soy sauce, molasses, honey, rice wine vinegar – all things you can keep in your refrigerator so you can make this dish many times, which, I think you will. As far as the steps, it’s basically whisking the marinade ingredients, pouring it over the pork, refrigerating it overnight and then cooking it up! It’s that simple. The most important step is making sure you buy pork shoulder, as tenderloin is too lean.

Ingredients: 3 pounds boneless pork shoulder (select a piece with some good fat on it) ¼ cup granulated white sugar 2 teaspoons salt ½ teaspoon five spice powder ¼ teaspoon white pepper ½ teaspoon sesame oil 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce 2 teaspoons molasses 1/8 teaspoon red food coloring (optional) 3 cloves finely minced garlic 2 tablespoons honey 1 tablespoon hot water

Reserve about 3 tablespoons of marinade and set it aside. Pour the remainder of the marinade over the pork, turning the pork over to thoroughly coat all pieces. Cover and refrigerate at least 8 hours or overnight. Cover and store the reserved marinade in the fridge as well. When ready to cook, preheat oven to 450 degrees. Place a cookie cooling rack or roasting rack inside a sheet pan. Place the marinated pork on the roasting rack. Pour 1 cup of water into the baking sheet below the rack to prevent any drippings from burning the pan. If you don’t have a roasting rack, line the baking sheet with foil and place the pork on the foil, eliminating the water. Bake for 20 minutes. Turn pork over and bake for another 20 minutes. Brush reserved marinade over the pork and cook for another 5 minutes (do not use the liquid that the pork was marinating in). Remove from the oven and baste with the last bit of reserved marinade if any. Let the meat rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with rice and veggies. Watch my how-to video: jandatri.com/recipe/ chinese-bbq-pork

Directions: Cut the pork into long strips or chunks about 3 inches thick and 7 inches long. Place pork in a glass casserole dish. In a bowl, add sugar, salt, five spice powder, white pepper, sesame seed oil, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, molasses, honey, red food coloring, water and minced garlic. Whisk to combine.

Karen Sue Brenner, a lifelong resident of Scottsdale, beloved sister, aunt, passed away surrounded by her family on February 15, 2020. She was predeceased by her parents Harry and Nellie Brenner and is survived by a brother, Terry Brenner (Beth) of Chandler and sisters; Sharon Ryan (Ron) Long Beach, CA. , Kathy Brenner, St. Helens, OR., niece, Laurie Zebarth (Mark) Fountain Valley, CA., nephews, Travis Brenner (Danielle) St. Helens, OR., Jack Brenner, Chandler and grandnieces, Mackenzie, Kelly and Averie. Private graveside service was held February 28, 2020 at Green Acres Cemetery. Sign the Guestbook at: obituaries.EastValleyTribune.com

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