Scottsdale Progress 11-03-2019 by Times Media Group

Sustainable and artistic wonder / P. 42

TIME TO VOTE Best of Scottsdale Voting ends Nov. 8 / Scottsdale.org

An edition of the East Valley Tribune

INSIDE

This Week

NEWS............................... 6 School board dragging heals on auditor.

SPORTS ..................... 38 Notre Dame Prep player tackles adversity.

FREE ($1 OUTSIDE OF SCOTTSDALE) | scottsdale.org

Mailed-in bond A new 'challenge' election ballots hitting record BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY Progress Managing Editor

ith two days left before the end of Scottsdale’s special 2019 bond election this Tuesday, voter turnout is already exceeding turnout in the last bond election back in 2015, by 25 percent. The election determines whether or not the city is authorized to issue up to $319 million in bonds to pay for infrastructure, public safety and parks projects throughout the city. The bond issue was not the only thing on the ballot for many Scottsdale voters. Voters within Scottsdale Unified School district boundaries, which primarily includes Scottsdale residents but also parts of Phoenix, Paradise Valley and Tempe, will decide

see BOND page 8

FOOD ............................47 Who needs sliders? Meatballs coming!

NEIGHBORS ........................20 BUSINESS ..............................31 OPINION ..............................36 SPORTS ................................38 ARTS .....................................42 FOOD & DRINK................... 47 CLASSIFIEDS .......................50

Sunday, November 3, 2019

Tonalea Elementary in Scottsdale last week held its first Challenge Day for 100 students. The widely implemented program is aimed at building self-esteem while challenging students to treat each other with respect. For details on the inspirational program, see page 28. (Chris Mortenson/Progress Staff Photographer)

Pot shop now needs 5-member Council OK BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY Progress Managing Editor

proposed downtown Scottsdale medical marijuana dispensary will need the support of a supermajority of city council, after opponents employed a little-known legal mechanism to challenge the project. Zoning and conditional use permit applications for the Sunday Goods dispensary will go before the Scottsdale City Council Nov. 12.

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Sunday Goods is seeking to rezone a building currently housing a tattoo parlor near the Galleria Corporate Centre. The opponents – local property owners who continue to raise questions about whether or not the Sunday Goods dispensary project complies with city and state regulations – filed a legal protest with the city on Sept. 27, citing A.R.S. §9-462.04. The state law allows 20 percent or more of area property owners to protest proposed zoning amendments.

“If the owners of twenty percent or more of the property, by area and number of lots file a protest in writing against a proposed amendment, the change shall not become effective except by the favorable vote of three-fourths of all members of the governing body of the municipality,” according to the statute. Scottsdale's current Planning Director, Tim Curtis, said city staff determined the

see DISPENSARY page 12

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CITY NEWS

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

City plans 2 public Veterans Day observances Nov. 11 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 Copy Editor April Morganroth | 480-656-9667 | amorganroth@ timespublications.com Staff Writers Kristine Cannon | 480-898-9657 | kcannon@scottsdale.org Jim Walsh | 480-898-5639 | jwalsh@scottsdale.org Photographers Kimberly Carrillo | KCarrillo@scottsdale.org Pablo Robles | Probles@scottsdale.org Design Veronica Thurman | vthurman@scottsdale.org 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.

PROGRESS NEWS STAFF

he City of Scottsdale is hosting two events open to the public on Nov. 11 in observation of Veterans Day, including a commemoration headlined by Senator Martha McSally. The commemoration will kick off at 3 p.m. at Scottsdale’s McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park at 7301 E. Indian Bend Road. McSally, a United States Air Force veteran and the first American woman to fly in combat, is the scheduled keynote speaker for the event, which will begin with a half hour of patriotic music from the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Arizona Band. McSally visited Scottsdale earlier this month at the ribbon cutting for SCSVets, a program from Scottsdale-based Acronis SCS to train veterans to enter the cybersecurity workforce. Army veteran JB Spisso will be a guest speaker at the event. Spisso is the author of the book “Warrior Leadership” and

Earlier in the day, the City of Scottsdale will host a Veterans Day ceremony at City Hall. The ceremony will feature Scottsdale veterans organizations and take place at the Chaplain statue at 11 a.m. The bronze statue depicts a World War I chaplain and was created in 2009 by renowned artist Austin Deuel, who is a veteran Senator Martha McSally, an Air Force veteran, is the keynote speaker at the City of Scottsdale’s Veterans of the United States MaDay event Nov. 11 at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. rine Corps and served (Progress file photo) in Vietnam. Deuel created the co-founded Elite Leadership Training. statue after Scottsdale The program also includes Scottsdale veterans groups expressed concern that historian and veteran Len Marcisz, Vi at existing plaque commemorating veterSilverstone retirement community vet- ans in the Civic Center was not adequate erans, the Police and Fire Honor Guards and raised $50,000 to construct the new and bugler Gil Gifford. memorial.

SCC offering help to students who dropped out PROGRESS NEWS STAFF

cottsdale Community College has launched a “Complete Your Dreams” initiative to help up to 100 students who did not finish their degree program return to college. SCC will award each participating student a free, three-credit-hour class when they resume their studies at SCC next spring for an average savings of $290. “Community colleges across the country regularly experience students withdrawing temporarily from their studies,” a spokesman noted, citing finances, mental or physical health crisis, family concerns and employment obligations as some of the main reasons for dropping out. “The Complete Your Dreams initiative

tackles this challenge head-on by helping to remove financial barriers,” the spokesman said. To qualify for the award, the student must have been out of college for two years or less, earned a minimum of 15 credit hours without completing a degree and have a GPA of 2.0 and above. Students will also be encouraged to register and pay for a second class for the spring 2020 semester to continue in their academic journey. Students need to apply to SCC by Dec. 6 and complete an in-person interview before the start of semester Jan. 11. Funding for the Complete Your Dreams awards stems from personal donations made by the SCC campus community through a September 2019 giving campaign for this purpose, the SCC Advisory

Board and other community members along with a $12,500 grant by the Scottsdale Industrial Development Authority. “The faculty and staff at Scottsdale Community College know the barriers students face can be overwhelming at times,“ said Chris Haines, SCC’s interim president, adding: “Complete Your Dreams is an innovative, grassroots effort that can positively impact a student’s educational journey. Knowing that our faculty and staff personally donated to this effort reflects their amazing generosity and commitment to our students.” SCC offers extensive student support services, including advising and assistance with applying for financial aid. Information: scottsdalecc.edu/completeyourdreams.

GOT SOMETHING ON YOUR MIND? Share it with The Progress readers. Send your letters or columns to opinions@scottsdale.org

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

CITY NEWS

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

School board slow on hiring internal auditor BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY Progress Managing Editor

ver the past two years, the Scottsdale Unified School District has adopted a number of reforms and policy revisions aimed at preventing the litany of controversies that plagued the district the past three years. Even with the new policies in place, however, the district’s Governing Board has yet to act on whether or not it will hire an internal auditor – an idea pushed by new board members Jann-Michael Greenburg and Patty Beckman, the board president, during their 2018 campaigns. The new policies that have been recommended by district leadership and approved by the board cover a wide range of issues, including procurement, conflict of interest, student safety and public comment. Whether or not the existing changes have restored public confidence in the district that was damaged in recent years is unclear. “I think we will have a much better gauge of that after Nov. 5,” said Superintendent Dr. John Kriekard, alluding to the ongoing budget override election. Kriekard said he has heard support from the community for the district’s reforms and that “what I’m hearing anecdotally is that people are really appreciative of the fact that we are back to doing school business as it should be done.” The district adopted several policy revisions concerning procurement and con-

On September 17, the SUSD Governing Board approved priorities for the superintendent. (Progress file photo)

flict of interest in light of the alleged violations that resulted in the firing of former Superintendent Denise Birdwell and resignation of former CFO Laura Smith – who is now on trial for those alleged violations. In 2018, the SUSD board approved revisions to the board’s purchasing ethics policy in line with rules passed by the state legislature. The revised policy included stipulations that district employees who supervise or participate in contracts “shall not accept or agree to accept any personal gift or benefit from a person or vendor that has secured or has taken steps to secure a contract, purchase, payment, claim or financial transaction with the District.” The policy also prohibits employees not involved in contracts from attempting to influence coworkers who do administer

contracts. In firing Birdwell, the board alleged she had accepted $30,000 in payments from Hunt & Caraway architects in 2016 before the district ultimately awarded contracts to the firm. The purchasing policy revisions also prohibit retaliation by supervisors against district employees who disclose potential violations of district policy or law. In September 2019, the district amended its bidding and purchasing procedures, It says, “The Governing Board shall make available, for public inspection, all information, all bids, proposals and qualifications submitted, and all findings and other information.” The board also updated its staff conflict of interest rules in 2018, in the wake of Smith’s resignation.

Smith, the former CFO, resigned and was ultimately indicted in Maricopa County on allegations that she signed off on contracts awarded to a consulting firm owned by her sister. Susan Segal, the district’s outside counsel, told the board in 2018, the previous policy mirrored what many other districts had in place but was confusing and did not define “relative” or explicitly state what employees had to disclose. “Any employee or officer who has, or whose relative has, a substantial interest in any decision of the District shall make known this interest in the official records of the District, and shall refrain from participating in any manner as an employee in such a decision,” according to the policy. The rewritten policy includes explicit definitions of defines a relative and what constitutes “a substantial interest” in a prohibiting an employee from participating in a contract. The new policy also required employees to fill out conflict of interest forms every year and notify the district of new conflicts of interest within 15 days a new conflict. Segal said the district’s new policy is “on the cutting edge” and more intensive than what other district’s have in place, and included recommendations from a report issued by the Arizona Auditor General. The Governing Board also adopted a new district policy on the use of restraint and seclusion techniques on students by

see REFORMS page 10

School board sets superintendent search goals BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY Progress Managing Editor

he Scottsdale Unified School District Governing Board has set a timeline to search for the district’s next superintendent. Dr. Steve Joel with McPherson and Jacobson is spearheading the search at the request of several board members. Joel is also the superintendent of Nebraska’s Lincoln Public Schools, which has 41,000 students. The previous search was led by other consultants with the firm. The district originally hired McPherson and Jacobson to search for its next superintendent last year, but the board called off the search in late 2018 after being unsatisfied with the candidates.

At a meeting on Oct. 23, the SUSD Governing Board approved a timeline for the search to replace Superintendent Dr. John Kriekard. (Progress file photo)

Superintendent Dr. John Kriekard, then serving in an interim capacity, agreed to stay on at the district and the board named him the permanent superintendent in early 2019. On Oct. 1, the current board – which includes two new members who did not participate in the last search – voted unanimously to stick with McPherson and Jacobson for the current search. The company committed to operating the new search under its existing contract. The district had spent $21,000 out of the $36,900 contract during the previous search. At a meeting with the board on October 23, Joel set out a tentative timeline for the search that the board later approved. Joel recommended listing the job and its criteria by Nov. 3 and allowing two months

for applications to come in before closing out the application period on Jan. 9. It is likely the job will be posted shortly after a planned Nov. 5 board meeting during which the board is expected to approve criteria for the search. The consultants will then present candidates to the board at a board meeting in late January. At that point, the board will select finalists or direct the firm to continue the search. “I would just say that those are typically four-hour board meetings, but if they need to be eight-hour board meetings, you just tell us how long they need to be and we’ll plan accordingly,” Joel said. The board met in a closed executive session for six hours with consultants on Dec.

see SUPERINTENDENT page 14

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

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CITY NEWS

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

BOND from front

whether to continue the district’s existing 15 percent maintenance and operations budget override. As of Oct. 29, the county received 25.7 percent of Scottsdale voters' ballots in the city bond election, according to the city. The Maricopa County Recorder’s Office and Scottsdale Unified School District did not respond to a request for the number ballots returned in that district’s election. However, the county received 44,631 ballots as of October 29. That's up by roughly 7,000 compared to the 2015 election, where 37,766 bond election ballots were in. Five days before Election Day in 2015, the county received 28,202 ballots – over 16,000 fewer ballots filed so far in this year's bond election as of Oct. 29. The increase in early votes could largely be the result of a new change implemented for this election, by the county. This is the first time the county conducted an all-mail-in special election, which included voters not on early voting lists. This year, the county sent out ballots to the 173,547 registered voters in Scottsdale. In 2015, only 94,590 voters received ballots by mail.

If history is any indication, the decision to switch to all-mail-in ballots should not have a detrimental effect on overall voter turnout. Historically, early voters cast the vast majority of votes in off-year elections in Scottsdale. In the 2015 bond election, early votes accounted for over 93 percent of all votes.

In the 2013 special bond election, early votes accounted for just over 89 percent. While turnout in 2019 is trending well ahead of 2015, it still lags far behind expected turnout in elections where other local, state and national issues motivate greater participation. In the last three off-year elections in Scottsdale, voter turnout hovered between

18.5 and 29.4 percent. That is less than half of the 71.4 percent of Scottsdale voters who participated in last year’s general election, which included a number of issues that likely galvanized voters, including a City Council race and Proposition 420, along with contests for state and federal lawmakers. Historically, turnout in Scottsdale bond elections increase when bond questions share the ballot with other major issues. The city’s 2010 election –which included two bond propositions, seven charter amendments and a city council race – had a voter turnout of 62.5 percent. Voters who still wish to turn in their ballots can do so in person at voting center, but it is too late to mail ballots. The county recommended placing ballots in the mail by Oct. 29 to ensure the recorder’s office received them by Nov. 5. There are two voting centers in Scottsdale at the Indian Bend Wash Visitor’s Center, 4201 N. Hayden Road, and at the Florence Ely Nelson Desert Park, 8950 E. Pinnacle Peak Road. Ballots can also be delivered to Maricopa County Elections at 510 S. Third Ave. in Phoenix or 222 E. Javelina Ave. in Mesa. For voting center hours of operation: scottsdaleaz.gov/elections.

stay just a few days. Sen. Kate Brophy McGee, R-Phoenix, said having short-term rentals in what had been a neighborhood of owner-occupied homes means the people who live there year-round don’t know who is coming and going. The result, she said, is she’s not comfortable leaving her grandchildren outside. “It changes the character of a residential neighborhood,’’ she said. Matt Miller, an attorney for the Goldwater Institute, brushed aside those concerns. “Is that the role of government to come in and say that houses have to be owned by people who are going to live there for a year so that all the neighbors can know each other?’’ he said. “I don’t think that’s the role of government.’’ Brophy McGee said that misses the point. “It’s understanding if you’re buying a property next to a hotel what you’re going to get, which is people coming, people going, different people,’’ she said. But Brophy McGee said the folks who are concerned bought their homes in areas specifically zoned for residential use. Miller’s comments also drew an angry reaction from Rep. Isela Blanc, D-Tempe,

who said there’s a world of difference between having neighbors who live there full time versus absentee owners who create de facto hotels by in residential areas, renting out the houses to different people on a daily or weekly basis. “Why are my property rights less valuable than the person who is choosing to run a business next door to me without the proper zoning and consumer protections, neighborhood protections, neighbor protections?’’ she asked. Miller was unconvinced. Kavanagh said the 2016 law created another problem. He said entire neighborhoods in some communities have now been converted into short-term rentals, drying up the availability of affordable rental housing. The solution in Kavanagh’s mind is to once again let local city and town councils decide what restrictions work best. That could include limiting the number of short-term rentals, both in any specific neighborhood as well as overall in the community. And Kavanagh said a limit on occupancy based on the number of bedrooms also makes sense. But Ducey, who championed the 2016

law – and would have to sign any new restrictions – contended, “We’re proud of the open-for-business reputation that Arizona has.’’ “What we didn’t want is a patchwork of different laws throughout the state,’’ he said. “We think that’s bad policy. It’s not friendly to a growing economy.’’ Ducey, however, had to back down a bit when he signed a new law earlier this year restoring to communities the ability to crack down what are considered the more blatant abuses. It spells out that homes cannot be used for parties, restaurants, sales or other nonresidential purposes and requires owners to provide a point of contact for police to call if there are problems. There also are fines for violations, potentially up to half the gross monthly proceeds after multiple violations. Kavanagh, who is a former police officer, said, “It’s almost impossible to enforce these things. Police officers have to witness violations. So, when the police car pulls up, ‘Shhh, cops!’ Everybody’s quiet.’’ The committee is set to have at least two more hearings before the Legislature reconvenes in January.

The city bond questions are aimed at getting voter approval for spending millions on much needed infrastructure repairs that enhance Scottsdale's quality of life. (Progress file photo)

Ducey cool to more short-term rental controls BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

legislative panel is debating whether to restore the right of cities and towns to regulate short-term vacation rentals – a right that legislators and Gov. Doug Ducey took away from them three years ago. But the idea already is getting a chilly reception from the governor. Rep. John Kavanagh, R-Scottsdale, who chairs the committee, said the law was sold to legislators as a way of helping homeowners earn some extra money by renting out a spare bedroom, perhaps to a visiting foreign student. Rep. Travis Grantham, R-Gilbert, said that gives cities and towns all the authority they need to enforce basic safety and health regulations, things like noise and trash. But Kavanagh – who co-chairs the panel and voted against the 2016 law – said the reality is that a large share of the homes offered for rent through companies like Airbnb and VRBO are actually owned by people who don’t live there and have simply purchased the house for the specific purpose of renting it out to those who may

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

CITY NEWS

REFORMS from page 6

district staff. The district was recently ordered to pay the family of a former student $119,000 in legal fees related to the district’s failure to respond to public information requests stemming from allegations of improper use of those techniques. A federal case filed by the family of Sean McCarthy is ongoing. McCarthy’s parents alleged that staff at Desert Mountain High School used abusive use of force, including restraint techniques by untrained staff, against their son, who has non-verbal autism. A memo from Dawn Schwenckert, SUSD’s then-director of Special Education, on Jan. 27, 2017, backs up the family’s account and stated that on Jan. 24, 2017, “Mr. Satterlie revealed he had performed holds on (the McCarthys’ son) and Mr. Satterlie is not CPI certified.” The family also alleged the district failed to notify them of the use of force in a timely manner. “We had no specific policy,” said Kriekard, who was not superintendent when the McCarthy incident occurred. “So, going through this in a manner that gives guidance to our staff as well as informs the public of what can be expected.” The new policy also bans restraint or

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

seclusion as a form of punishment and only allows the techniques to be used by trained staff if a student “presents an imminent danger of bodily harm to the pupil or others.” The policy also outlines reporting requirements mandating schools notify parents on the same day if restraint or seclusion is used on their child. “This is much more specific to the needs of not just special education students, but primarily special education students, who on occasion need to be held in a way that they don’t hurt themselves or others and can move back on to their educational plan,” Kriekard said. Kriekard said the district has hired new administrators in many of the departments overseeing the new policies’ implementation. There has been significant turnover at the top of the district. Since July 2018, the district has hired three new assistant superintendents for human resources (Dr. Jed Bowman), elementary education (Dr. Ibi Haghighat) and secondary education (Dr. Milissa Sackos). The district also hired Dr. Linda Brake as the new director of Special Education in 2019. One new hire that has not taken place is an internal auditor. Both Greenburg and Beckman pushed

for the auditor in pre-election interviews with the Progress. “I have consistently championed greater means of accountability and financial oversight, including the creation of an internal auditing department, an inspector general’s position within the District, quarterly compliance and ethics training, and annual conflicts of interest filings for all District employees,” Greenburg wrote in 2018. In her Q&A, Beckman wrote, “Our board needs to commit to following best practices and state law. We need to work with an internal auditor as well as hire an independent outside auditing firm.” Previous priorities approved by the board earlier in the year also identified the district’s auditing needs as an issue to address. The district has not moved forward on hiring an internal auditor or outside firm due to a lack of consensus on the board as to what exactly that role would look like or if it should even hire an auditor. “Well, we are still discussing that, because I have had varying interpretations of what that would look like and whether or not we should even have one from the various board members,” Kriekard said. Kriekard said there is also some question as to who the auditor would report to – the superintendent or the board. Kriekard said it is not unusual for a district to have an internal auditor on staff

but that the specifics of the role can differ from district to district. Based on conversations at the Sept. 17 meeting, it looks like Kriekard was leaning towards recommending an auditor who can review the district’s processes rather than just its financials, calling the latter redundant with the annual audit already performed by an outside firm. Kriekard told the board that person would look at everything “from human resources to finance to purchasing” and other departments to provide “an outside set of eyes looking at whether our actions and strategies are consistent with our policies…” At the Sept. 17 meeting, Board Member Allyson Beckham said she would like to know more about the specifics of what an auditor would do in SUSD, what the expected outcomes would be and how the district would measure those outcomes. “So, we are not once again hiring a consultant or even if it’s an internal auditor coming in and six months down the road we really don’t have anything to measure it by,” Beckham said. Kriekard said he anticipated the district would address the auditor question before the end of his tenure. The board recently kicked off the search for SUSD’s next superintendent, which could be hired as soon as the end of February 2019.

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DISPENSARY from front

protest was valid. That means five of the seven council members must approve the zoning application rather than four. The protest applies only to the dispensary’s zoning amendment request and not the concurrent conditional use permit application. Scottsdale requires all dispensaries in the city to obtain a conditional use permit. Many other Valley cities eliminated the requirement in favor of an administrative process allowing city staff to approve dispensaries. Denial of the zoning request would effectively kill the dispensary regardless of council’s decision on the permit. That is because the proposed site, currently a tattoo parlor, is zoned C-2 commercial, which does not permit medical marijuana dispensaries. The protest is the latest volley by dispensary’s opponents, who fear it would hamper plans to assemble parcels to build a tall, mixed-use residential and retail building on the block in the future. “Ultimately, it is small business owners like (CodaKid owner David Dodge) and myself, like all of us, that end up having to fight and fund the fight,” property owner and architect Daniel Spiro said. Spiro is part of a group of neighboring property owners who plan their own development. The Progress confirmed the group includes Spiro, Dodge and Gary Bohall, who all own buildings on the west side of Brown Avenue, which shares an alleyway with the dispensary. Janet Wilson, who owns four parcels on the east side of Brown Avenue, is also a part of the group. Spiro said the proposed dispensary’s two-story design and the new zoning height limitations would make it difficult to attract a development partner for their proposed taller development. He argued the city should not “spot zone” one building on the block just to allow the dispensary to move in. Under existing C-2 zoning in the area, Spiro and his group could construct a building up to 60 feet tall. It could potentially go up to 90 feet under rules passed by city council in 2018, if the group meets certain city requirements. Jason Rose, a spokesperson for the dispensary, said it asked for a delay of the Council hearing, originally scheduled for Oct. 3, to address the property owners’ concerns. Meanwhile, dispensary proponents argue it would provide increased access to medical marijuana patients in southern

This old tattoo shop would be replaced by a dispensary if Sunday Goods gets Council's approval (Progress file photo)

Sunday Goods would become the first medical marijuana dispensary in downtown Scottsdale. (File photo)

Scottsdale. The nearest dispensary in the city is near Via de Ventura and Pima Road. Cardholders in downtown Scottsdale and areas farther south must commute at least six miles to location or other dispensaries in Phoenix and Tempe. “That’s a nuisance when you’re not feeling well,” said Thomas Lovell, a Scottsdale resident with cancer who uses medical marijuana. But Spiro and his group argue the area around the business is not the right place for the development, saying the presence of marijuana could hurt them. Sunday Goods backers received a state certificate to open a dispensary in southern Scottsdale in 2017, but is unable to find a location meeting all city and state laws prohibiting dispensaries from close proximity to schools, churches, parks and residential properties. Scottsdale beefed up its separation requirements in 2016, requiring dispensaries to be 1,500 feet from protected residential uses, parks and churches. Arizona requires dispensaries to be 500

feet from schools. At an earlier public meeting, representatives for the dispensary said a small triangle of buildings in the area around the proposed site were the only areas in the southern Scottsdale area where they are authorized by the state to open a dispensary and complied with all separation requirements. Spiro disagreed, arguing the current site also fails to meet several requirements. Spiro pointed to three residential projects within 1,000 feet of the site – the 3rd Avenue Lofts, San Marin Luxury Apartments and The Stetson apartment complex. However, Curtis said those complexes do not qualify as protected residential uses because they are located in mixeduse districts. The original city ordinance passed in 2011, only protected single-family, two-family and manufactured housing residential districts. In 2012, the Council increased residential protections to include some multifamily zoning designa-

tions but not mixed-use districts. “So, there wasn’t a separation requirement from the mixed-use districts, just from the residential districts,” Curtis said. Spiro also argued the proposed Sunday Goods is too close to a park – the Soleri Bridge and Plaza on the west side of Scottsdale Road. City staff disagreed. Curtis said the Soleri Plaza is considered open space and a canal front but is not designated a park. Spiro argued if the city is maintaining the property, it should qualify as a park. Dan Worth, Scottsdale’s public works executive director, confirmed last year the city parks department maintains landscaping and irrigation at the plaza. Jason Morris, a zoning attorney for Sunday Goods, said the city has not, to this point, treated Soleri Plaza as a park as it relates to other uses downtown. Facing push back from city staff, Spiro’s group began meeting with council members. Curtis acknowledged council could feel differently from staff. “Now, these are just legal processing questions; politically, any of the council members could find discomfort in any of these issues,” Curtis said. Though much of its opposition is on procedural grounds, Spiro and his group are also planning an ad blitz opposing medical marijuana as a use – which was legalized in Arizona almost a decade ago – with flyers reading “Keep Old Town Family-Friendly”, “No Pot in Old Town” and “Keep Old Town Drug-Free.” The dispensary could run into trouble when it asks the state to approve its final license. Sunday Goods will still have to go back to the state to receive its license if the City Council approves the permit and zoning. “To get a full license, there’s a twostep process,” former DHS Director Will Humble told Cronkite News in 2016. “Number one, you get a registration certificate, which gives you a year’s time to get all your zoning documentation in order. At the end of the final inspection, you have a license and can sell.” When Sunday Goods goes back to the state, it will have to demonstrate it complies with all state separation requirements and other rules. The proposed Sunday Goods site is currently located within 500 feet of the Perform to Learn preschool and CodaKid, a coding academy offering summer

see DISPENSARY page 14

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

TOURISM SPOTLIGHT A C O M M U N I T Y R E P O R T F R O M E X P E R I E N C E S C OT T S D A L E

HEATING UP THE HOLIDAYS IN SCOTTSDALE ‘Twas the month before Christmas and all through the town, not a tourist was stirring, not even downtown. The poinsettias were hung along Fifth Avenue with care in hopes that the visitors soon would be there.

visitors from Chicago, New York, Denver and Canada. Increased interest would mean more visitors frequenting local merchants and filling the city’s tax coffers.

Traditionally, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, Scottsdale’s local tourism industry settles down for a long winter’s nap. But the city isn’t quite so sleepy anymore thanks to the collaborative efforts of Experience Scottsdale, area hospitality businesses and the city of Scottsdale.

Each year, the organization has had more to share with potential travelers as the city, resorts and attractions have bolstered their seasonal programming. Events like Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’ Christmas at the Princess and the city of Scottsdale’s Scottsdazzle are now hallmarks of Scottsdale’s holiday season.

Seven years ago, Experience Scottsdale launched its marketing campaign, HolidaysinScottsdale.com, to convince travelers to heat up their holidays in Scottsdale. With this year’s campaign, Experience Scottsdale aims to drive further interest by targeting potential

Through such seasonal promotions and added offerings, Scottsdale’s tourism industry hopes to continue welcoming more travelers to Scottsdale during this need time, helping ensure tourism has year-round benefits for the community.

Experience Scottsdale provides you with inspiration to explore your city. Learn about local events, restaurants, attractions, discounts and more by visiting ExperienceScottsdale.com or by finding us in person at the Scottsdale Tourist Information Center in Scottsdale Fashion Square.

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CITY NEWS

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

SUPERINTENDENT from page 6

20, 2018, before ultimately canceling the search. Following the selection of finalists, the board will interview candidates from Feb. 10 to 14 before potentially selecting a new superintendent later that month. “I will tell you, by being done by (February 21) you will be in front of most of the pack,” Joel told the board. The previous year’s failed search was a topic of conversation at the Oct. 23 meeting, and Joel cautioned the board members to temper their expectations. “Superintendents today have a lot options,” Joel said, noting that there are many job openings throughout the country and the candidate pools have dwindled in recent decades. Joel said circumstances within the district and the state will contribute to the difficulty of the search. “I will tell you that this is not going to be an easy search, but I don’t think it’s going to be an impossible search,” Joel told the board. “It’s just we’re going to have to work really hard to create a portrait of a challenge and opportunity that is going to be enticing to your next leader.” The state of public education funding in Arizona is one of the challenges the district will face, especially if it seeks to attract ap-

plicants from outside the state. “Arizona is one of the toughest states in the country…it’s going to be difficult to bring in people from other states (where) salaries are quite a bit higher…” Joel said. Joel said turnover at the top of Scottsdale district will be top of mind for some candidates concerned about stability. Including interims, the district has had eight individuals or teams fill the superintendent position since 2000. Though Scottsdale’s turnover rate is higher than normal, some data indicates superintendents, on average, do not stick around long in general. “The average tenure of a superintendent in an urban district is 3.1 years and the suburban districts, it’s a little bit over 4 years,” Joel said. A study released last year showed a longer tenure for superintendents at the nation’s largest school districts, though the districts in the study had a considerably larger enrollment than SUSD. The 2018 study by the Broad Center, looked at 242 total superintendents at the country’s 100 largest districts between 2003 and 2017, and showed an average tenure of 6.16 years. The districts in the study had enrollments between 46,695 and 1.1 million in 2018. SUSD’s enrollment in 2018 was over 22,000 students.

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DISPENSARY from page 12

camps and other programs. Rose said Sunday Goods has a contract with the preschool owner to relocate it, before the dispensary opens. The city also has a letter dated September 2018, from McCartney K. Hart, owner of the Perform to Learn preschool, stating she “will cease operations prior to, or contemporaneous with” the dispensary’s permit application. “Obviously, Sunday Goods cannot open unless and until (the preschool moves) per the contract,” Rose said. City staff agreed. Curtis said even if council approves the conditional-use permit, the city will not sign off on the resolution if the preschool doesn’t move. “So, we’re putting everybody on notice that this is a conflict right now and if it doesn’t get resolved, they’ll never be able to operate their Sunday Goods,” Curtis said. The CodaKid question is trickier as it is unclear if the business qualifies as a school under state separation rules. Owner David Dodge said he believes his business qualifies as a school under the state definition. The state only defines a private school as “a nonpublic institution where instruction is imparted,” according to statute. “We have a variety of different programs that we run but throughout the year, we have thousands of students that attend," Dodge said. Morris argued that CodaKid is more akin to a violin instructor than a school and that the state will defer to the city’s definition of a school. Under a revision passed by City Council in 2012, the definition of a “school” was clarified to include only kindergarten through 12th-grade schools, according to a City Council

memo. The Arizona Department of Health did not respond to a request for comment as to whether CodaKid qualifies as a private school under state rules. Whether or not the dispensary complies with state separation requirements did not affect Scottsdale city staff ’s recommendation for approving the Sunday Goods project. “That’s just up to the state level, so they’re going to have their own issues with the state,” Curtis said. Another state issue that could derail the dispensary involves parking requirements. The Arizona Administrative Code states, “A dispensary shall provide onsite parking or parking adjacent to the building used as the dispensary.” The most recent application on file with the city calls for three parking spaces on-site with an additional five “in-lieu” spaces, according to a Council memo. Through the in-lieu parking program, property owners in downtown Scottsdale can pay a fee instead of providing the required on-site parking. Wilson, another area property owner, said the current plan would further exacerbate an existing parking shortage in the area that hurts her tenants’ businesses. “The city is letting them have three parking places out in front of their business and five in lieu, which means it’s in never-never land,” Wilson said. Morris disagreed, once again contending the state will defer to the city to determine what amount of on-site parking is adequate. Curtis said city staff only considers city regulations when looking at an application. “That’s a state requirement,” Curtis said of the on-site parking rule, stating that using in-lieu parking is permissible under city rules.

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CITY NEWS

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Initiative targets major election changes

new initiative launched last week seeks to limit the access of candidates to private cash and encourage them to instead run for office with public financing. The proposal being advanced by the Arizona Advocacy Network, if approved by voters, would sharply cut the amount of money any individual or political action committee could give to anyone running for office. But it also would provide more public dollars for those who agree not to take private funds. It also would: • allow people to register to vote right up to election day; • require that any ballot mailed by 7 p.m. on election day to be counted as valid; • provide dollar-for-dollar individual tax credits for donations to the Citizens Clean Elections Commission to help fund candidates running with public dollars; • triple the minimum $50 income tax that corporations with at least 50 employees have to pay, with the additional dollars earmarked to fund the Clean Elections Act; But the provisions that could make

the most difference seek to financially encourage candidates to run with public funds and avoid seeking out dollars from private individuals and political action committees. Joel Edman, the network’s executive director, told Capitol Media Services he believes that’s a worthwhile goal. “The system we have has left us in a place where the vast majority of Arizonans feel like their politics are dominated by a small set of wealthy corporate interests and their lobbyists,’’ he said. Edman said that both strengthening public financing and opening up the voting process “will bring everyday people more into the process.’’ Backers need 237,645 valid signatures on petitions by July 2 to put the issue on the 2020 ballot. The measure is likely to draw stiff opposition from business interests, notably the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It not only fought the 1998 voter-approved law creating the Citizens Clean Elections Commission but also filed multiple lawsuits to have it declared illegal. Chamber spokesman Garrick Taylor said he hasn’t seen the language of the

initiative. But he said his organization opposes any measure to either increase funds for candidates running with public dollars or decrease the amount individuals and PACS can give others. On the former point, Taylor noted that the Clean Elections system is financed largely by a 10 percent surcharge on all civil, criminal and traffic fines. “There are better ways to spend public resources than on yard signs and robocalls,’’ he said. As to trimming maximum donations – individuals and PACs who now can contribute up to $6,000 to candidates would be limited to $2,500 for those seeking statewide office and $1,000 for legislative and local races – Taylor said that infringes on the rights of donors. “We take the view that money and using money in the advocacy for the election or the defeat of a candidate is akin to speech,’’ he said. “We would continue to resist efforts to erode entities’ political speech.’’ That 1998 voter-approved law allows – but does not require – candidates for statewide and legislative office to get public dollars if they refuse to take outside cash. The number of candidates participating in the past few elections has declined. At least some of that is due to a U.S. Supreme Court ruling saying it is illegal to give publicly funded candidates more money simply because their private foes have spent more. At the same time, many privately financed contenders have increased their spending, both directly and with the help of outside supporters, putting publicly financed candidates at a disadvantage. In 2014, for example, Gov. Doug Ducey won his first campaign with $2.2 million donated directly to him plus another $7 million in commercial financed by outsiders, notably the Republican Governors Association. Yet, a publicly funded candidate for governor currently gets only $638,222 for a primary; survivors get another $957,333 for the general election. The initiative would boost that aid to nearly $1.8 million for the primary Gov. Doug Ducey read "The Night Before Halloween" to 9-year-old Purneet Kaur and and almost $2.7 million for the genother Phoenix Children's Hospital patients last week as part of his annual Halloween eral election. tradition. He also distributed his favorite candy, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. His least Under the initiative each registered favorite. "Candy corn," he said. (Howard Fischer/Capitol Media Services) voter would get a certificate good

No tricks, just treats

for up to $150 which could be given to publicly financed candidates – and only those who take public funds – who could accumulate sufficient chits to qualify up to 200 percent more than the regular allocation. So that $2.7 million for a general election for a gubernatorial contender could become more than $8 million. Edman defended allowing the certificates to be used only to help those running with public dollars. “We think candidates, in deciding whether they want to have access to this pool of money, will have to decide whether they want to accept the restrictions that come with running ‘clean,’ ‘’ he said, meaning eschewing private dollars. He said the public interest is served with candidates who are not dependent on raising money from private sources, saying they will “spend more time talking to everyday voters rather than large corporations and their lobbyists.’’ The initiative also seeks to make changes, major and minor, in the voting process. Potentially the most significant would spell out that any ballot postmarked by the close of polling places would count. Now, anything that doesn’t make it to county offices by 7 p.m. on election day is disregarded. “Why would we set up a system where somebody could put their ballot in the mail three or four days before the election thinking that’s plenty of time to get there when there are parts of the state where the mail is not that quick?’’ he asked. Edman conceded it could mean delays in calling certain races – even longer than the week it took last year to declare that Democrat Katie Hobbs won the race for secretary of state. He said the right to vote outweighs “the convenience for political junkies’’ to know who won as quickly as possible. And counties would be able to operate early voting centers right up through the Monday before the election. On the registration side, the measure would allow people to sign up right through election day – and even at the polls – versus the current requirement to have registered at least 29 days ahead of time. And the system that now allows Arizonans to register when they get or renew a driver’s license or state-issued ID card would become automatic unless people opt out.

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

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CITY NEWS

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

Scottsdale woman publishes 2nd poetry book BY KRISTINE CANNON Progress Staff Writer

“You need faith and spirituality in everything you do [because] you are not in control of unforeseen situations.”

Detroit native, Karla Drew has many passions in life, reading, traveling, and volunteering among them. But it’s writing that tops her list. “Writing is therapeutic,” the Scottsdale resident said. “I like expressing myself through writing.” More specifically, she expresses herself through poetry, her preferred style of writing. “Danielle Steele for suspense, Cupcake Brown and Oprah Winfrey for informative: They are my role models,” Drew said. Drew, a graduate of Grand Canyon University who started writing in her late teens, has written not one but two books, “Uninvited Guests,” which was published in 2017, and “Thanks for the Flowers,” a 62-page book of poems published by Courageously Cute Publishing Company in March. To celebrate the release of “Thanks for the Flowers,” Drew held a book signing at Barnes & Noble in September – one of two retailers that carry her book, the other being Amazon.

Scottsdale resident Karla Drew is the author of two books. (Kimberly Carrillo/Contributor)

The Scottsdale Public Library also carries the book. Drew said, so far, she’s sold 60 copies of “Thanks for the Flowers,” a book she

compares to “Why Faith Matters” by David Wolpe. While writing “Thanks for the Flowers,” Drew said she was inspired by

spirituality. “Most of my stones were turned into flowers; the flowers grew into selfawareness, wisdom, or discipline,” she said. “You need faith and spirituality in everything you do [because] you are not in control of unforeseen situations.” “Life is a win-win situation,” the book description states. “Situations eventually bring growth. This book is about the unexpected, stones, and harvesting good and evil.” Drew added that she hopes readers find her poetry to be motivating. “The book is simple and practical. The poetry helps you motivate yourself,” she said. “Thanks for the Flowers” is available for $12 at Barnes & Noble.

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CITY NEWS

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

Construction no longer job king in Arizona BY DEAGAN URBATSCH Cronkite News

ov. Doug Ducey told business leaders this week, noting manufacturing jobs in the state now outnumber construction jobs. A boom in manufacturing in Arizona – from electric cars to high-end golf clubs – is also helping to lower unemployment in the state, he said. Ducey, joined by Tom Gilman, an assistant secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce, spoke last week at the central Phoenix headquarters of golf equipment manufacturer Ping. They emphasized the opportunities a technical education can provide young people and pushed for Congress to ratify the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, which the Trump administration negotiated to replace NAFTA. “Whatever level it is, there’s a job available,” Ducey said. “Here in Arizona, 65 percent of the jobs available could be filled with a career or technical education degree or certificate.” Gilman said investing in education is essential. “We need to educate our people, bring young people into our governments and companies. Investments in education are so important,” he said. Gilman began his career with Chrysler and worked in private business for more than 40 years before being appointed as assistant secretary for administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce in January. His first job was making engine blocks in Chrysler’s foundry, similar to the foundry Ping uses for its golf clubs. Gilman and Ducey used the opportunity to promote the USMCA, calling it a better version of the North American Free Trade Agreement, which took effect in January 1994. Mexico approved the USMCA in June. “We’re proud of the nation’s low unemployment rate,” Gilman said. “But the one thing we do need is the USMCA. That needs to be passed and it needs to be passed quickly. We have basically less than 20 days left in the congressional session. “It will grow our GDP by 1.2 percent, it will create 179,000 jobs. It’s been ratified already in Mexico. It’s in the

process of being ratified in Canada; they just had an election last week. We need to bring it to the floor.” Ducey cited Arizona’s close trade relationship with Mexico as a reason to pass the USMCA. “This is a no-brainer,” the Republican governor said. “I talk a lot about Mexico being our number one trade partner, and it’s not even close, times four. “NAFTA is something that happened 25 years ago. I call it a rotary phone agreement. It happened in an absolutely different world and economy. This updates the trade agreement.”

Discussing the manufacturing boom in Arizona, Ducey credited light regulation as a major contributor, saying that since he became governor more than ﬁve years ago, 2015, 300,000 jobs have been added to Arizona’s economy.

Discussing the manufacturing boom in Arizona, Ducey credited light regulation as a major contributor, saying that since he became governor more than five years ago, 2015, 300,000 jobs have been added to Arizona’s economy. “In Arizona today, we have more manufacturing jobs than we do construction jobs – 179,800 manufacturing jobs, and 174,000 construction jobs,” he said. “I think a lot of it is the economy, and a lot of it is opportunity.” Ducey said he often talks of low taxes, light regulation, low liability and litigation as being the cornerstones of his policies to support business. “The one commitment I can make to any decision-maker, leader, chief executive or business owner is we are not going to pull the rug out from underneath you in Arizona. You are going to have a predictable, consistent envi ronment in which to build your business.”

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Herbergers keep a busy charity calendar BY KRISTINE CANNON Progress Staff Writer

t’s been a busy year – and will continue to be – for Scottsdale residents and well-known philanthropists, Billie Jo and Judd Herberger. “If you could see my dance card, you’d go dizzy,” said Billie Jo. This year alone, she and Judd were inducted into the Herberger Performing Arts & Broadcast Hall of Fame. Scottsdale Arts named a new award after the couple called the Herberger Award for the Arts, which the organization will present at its annual gala fundraiser, Starry Night: An ARTrageous Gala, on Dec. 7. And leading up to the Starry Night gala, Billie Jo and Judd will attend Noche para los Niños on Nov. 7, a one-night benefit event for Phoenix-based nonprofit Kids in Focus, an organization that uses photography to impact and change the lives of Phoenix’s at-risk youth. But the Herbergers are more than merely guests at the Noche para los Niños fundraiser: They’re Kids in Focus’ 2019 Honorary Chairs. “We love all of these organizations that help children as they’re growing up and develop them into becoming people that

tion for adults. Described as a “delightful feature of the senses,” Noche para los Niños promises a night of live music by Nate Nathan and the MacDaddy-O’s; an array of culinary delights, including bites from Blanco Taco, Postino, Rachel Johnson Catering, Schmooze, and more; libations from Pour Masters and Roxx Vodka; and experiential acts, including contortionists, jugglers, stilt walkers and tarot card readers. Guests, who are encouraged to arrive in festive Day of the Dead attire, can also participate in a silent auction and raffle. Items up for bid include once-in-a-lifetime experiences and photographs taken by the children in Kids in Focus programs. “I’m looking forward to seeing the people who already know Scottsdale residents Billie Jo and Judd Herberger are the honorary chairs of Kid in Focus’ one- about Kids in Focus and who are night benefit event, Noche para los Niños place Nov. 7. (Chris Loomis/Special for the Progress)) there to celebrate the whole concept of it,” Billie Jo said. have confidence and have skills. This defiReturning for its second year, Kids in “I’ve invited our photographer, nitely is one of those organizations. Plus, Focus’ Noche para los Ninos transforms who photographs all of our parties here at it’s creative, and we love the arts,” Billie Jo Arizona Heritage Center at Papago Park in said. Tempe into a Dia de los Muertos celebrasee HERBERGERS page 23

Scottsdale Prep student pens winning essay

BY KRISTINE CANNON Progress Staff Writer

f the 245 students who submitted essays for Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane’s annual Constitution contest, Scottsdale Preparatory Academy eighth-grader Udbhav Akolkar recently won first place with his essay titled “The Sixth Amendment and its Importance for American Society.” “It’s an amazing feeling,” 14-year-old Udbhav said of winning. “Out of all of the students who participated, I was honored to be chosen as the first-place essay.” In his essay on the importance of the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitu-

tion, he wrote: “Today, we are fortunate to live in a society where the practice of law ensures that a hundred criminals may go free, but even one innocent person should not be punished.” “Justice is to be denied to no man. Iustitia nemini est.” Every year, kids from different grade levels enter essays or artwork into the contest. Udbhav submitted a 500-word essay. “I wrote about the importance of the Sixth Amendment and how that particular amendment is critical to defending the rights of every citizen. I used an ex-

see ESSAY page 23

Udbhav Akolkar, an eighth grader at Scottsdale Preparatory Academy, won first place in Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane’s annual Constitution contest. (Special to the Progress)

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

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Architect draws inspiration around the world BY SHERRY JACKSON Progress Contributor

rom the Scottsdale Airpark to Bali, Africa, India, Spain, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, architect Jeff Page has provided a solid vision and stunning designs for many high-end commercial and residential projects across the world. Page has been an architect for more than 30 years. He studied architecture in Syracuse before moving to Arizona to earn his Bachelor of Science in architectural studies from ASU. After graduating in 1988, he spent eight years practicing in New York before returning to the Valley. “I always had a love for the desert and had a yearning to return to Phoenix,” he said. Page founded his boutique Scottsdale-based company, SpaceLineDesign Architects, in 1996 and has designed several buildings in the Airpark. One project incorporated an aeronautical theme for 10,000 square feet of commercial office space for a private financial institution on the east side of the runway. He also designed a warehouse showroom on the west side of the Airpark. Page specializes in modern and contemporary designs and likes to include decorative architectural elements to his projects. About 80 percent of his work is design/build for residential and commercial clients and the rest is focused on master planning and conceptualizing designs for developers. Parametric design, a process based on repeating geometric designs, is prevalent in Page’s work and he never repeats a design, giving his clients a truly unique product. “I like to have a very special journey in the home when you go to the master bedroom. I like to have a certain hierarchy to the house,” Page said. “The foyer is your orientation point, but I don’t like to reveal all the views at once. I like it to be more of a journey as you progress through the home. I also always like to have an element of custom art or architecture or texture that form a transition into another area.” One of his first projects in Arizona was a 2,100-square-foot cabana for a local attorney at Phoenix’s Biltmore Circle. The cabana was featured on HGTV, as well as published in several

Scottsdale architect Jeff Page draws inspiration from designs he finds around the globe. (Special to the Progress)

magazines and books. “It was very creative, very stylish and crafty,” he said. “That was a nice, good start.” In 2008, Page and his wife, Mahsa, who is an interior designer (they frequently team up on projects together), had an opportunity to move to Dubai. While there, Page had his hand in designing, consulting and managing luxury residential and iconic commercial developments, including one of the largest upscale BMW/Rolls Royce dealerships in the world in Abu Dhabi. Page also provided on-site architectural guidance for a five-star hotel on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, including a beach-side restaurant, large resort pool and themed water park. “We had a great chance to work on some really amazing and interesting large, commercial, billion-dollar-range

projects,” Page said. “I went from creating offices space in the Scottsdale and Phoenix area, to managing the evolution of a project that included 21 towers that were 24 stories each.” Page said he learned a lot from his experiences in the Middle East. “Dubai is very cutting-edge and very fast-paced. They hire the crème de la creme of consultants, so I was always working with the best of the best and with the latest technologies.” While residing in Dubai, Page traveled to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as a senior delegate to engage government officials, open up diplomatic channels and provide an evaluation of existing and future infrastructure such as deepwater ports, rail, roads, major undeveloped land tracts and project development in Kinshasa and throughout the DRC.

A project in Bali provided Page the opportunity to design a 15-acre, exclusive cliff-side property for a 54-room, six penthouse suite, luxury resort hotel with 25 private villas for an Indonesian hospitality development company. He also designed 21 luxury villas and a 45-room boutique hotel for the 32-acre private island of Gili Nanggu in Lombok, Indonesia. Technology plays a strong role in his business and Page enjoys using cuttingedge applications, including building information modeling, 3-D flyovers and virtual reality. Customers can don a VR headset and do a 3-D virtual walk-through of their home, office or building he has designed. For residential projects, Page incorporates the newest features in his designs such as wine rooms and game rooms, high-thermal energy efficiencies and water features. For commercial projects, air conditioning efficiency with well-balanced, thermostat-controlled rooms plays a big factor as does posh amenities such as showcase-type clubhouses and amenities for residents in master-planned communities. “We strive for that unique custom look. There’s also a certain level of DNA that comes from an architect’s past and future. Our experience in the Middle East provides a level of luxury, of thoughtful, elegant geometries. I like homes that have a poetry to them.” Currently, Page is working on a luxury home project in Fountain Hills, a few doctors’ offices and a vegan restaurant/rock ‘n’ roll bar in Tempe. He’s also working with a developer to find land for a small 12-luxury villa community centered around a common area somewhere in Phoenix. “We’re not about trying to max out density,” Page said. “I like to have a lot of landscaping and trees. I like to provide a sense of place.” Page, like many architects, has a dream project he’d like to see completed one day: a 200-person, underwater restaurant he’s dubbed MantaSea. He has already come up with the concept design and is just waiting for an investor and developer to make his dream a reality. “Architects like to dwell in fantasy, but we’re always brought back to reality, by reality.”

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SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

HERBERGERS �� page 20

home and on our boat in California, and I’ve invited a lot of interesting people who aren’t aware of this organization who will hopefully see the way we’re feeling about it. The energy of the night sounds like it’s going to be fabulous.” Karen Shell, Kids in Focus founder and executive director, said the organization is “unbelievably blessed” to have Billie Jo and Judd serve as honorary chairs. “They bring some much credibility and generosity to our event,” Shell said. Noche para los Niños co-chair Bobby Barnes said Billie Jo and Judd are “truly amazing people” in the community. “I have known them both for years, and they truly are two of the kindest people,” he said. “They have a strong commitment to the arts, but more importantly, they support our community. While they are probably best known for their support in the arts, the support of children’s causes is very important. I am proud to have them serve as the honorary chairs of this event. It truly makes a statement.” Billie Jo and Judd have supported over 20 mostly arts-related organizations throughout the Valley over the decades. “We don’t know anything else,” Billie Jo said with a laugh. “We love being the only two people to carry on an amazing legacy, and we are so proud. It’s just so important to us. It makes every day meaningful and happy, and it’s fun to

ESSAY �� page 20

ample of Sir Walter Raleigh’s execution to highlight the importance of such rights,” he explained. Lane said he holds this essay contest every year because “it is important that we are concerned on what kids are learning in regards to our history and the uniqueness to our Constitution, including the Bill of Rights that protects the minority, whether it is religion or otherwise against the potential tyranny from the majority.” He said he chose Udbhav’s essay because it was not only well written, but

go to the grocery store and somebody goes, ‘Oh, I know you, you.’ It’s like you’re a movie star in another world.” Billie Jo, a California native, moved to Phoenix in 1969. and met Judd, who moved to Scottsdale in 1947, 20 years later in 1989. Since, the couple has financially supported major arts institutions, like the Herberger Theater Center, Scottsdale Arts, the Phoenix Art Museum, Ballet Arizona, the Phoenix Theatre Company, the Arizona Opera, the Phoenix Symphony, and Valley Youth Theatre. “We’re very active with Valley Youth Theater,” Judd said. “Their alumni are scattered throughout the performing arts communities of L.A., New York; Emma Stone is one. So, it’s wonderful.” Judd’s passion for the arts was sparked when he was merely 8 or 9 years old. “I attended the first symphony orchestra to ever play in Phoenix at the Phoenix Union High School auditorium that my mother organized,” he recalled. “[The arts] is something that I’ve grown up with.” Billie Jo and Judd said Kids in Focus is doing “tremendous, life-changing work for underserved children” and that the organization is a “perfect fit” for them. “With Kids in Focus, I think it’s very important for children too, for the first time in their life, have an adult and their peers actually ask them questions

about things that they’ve created and made them feel important for something that they are part of and that they have actually made happen,” Judd said of the nonprofit. Judd added: “Some of these photographs are terrific, and I’m sure that when adults and their mentors and their friends say, ‘Explain this to me,’ that they have a sense of importance, maybe the first time in their life.” Barnes said he is also impressed with the Kids in Focus kids’ photography. At last year’s fundraiser, he even asked all the photographers for their autograph. “They beamed with pride,” he recalled. “I didn’t really know anyone at the event, so I bought one of the books featuring the kids’ bios and photography. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. The photography the kids created was amazing.” Colleen Katz, Noche para los Niños co-chair, has been a Kids in Focus mentor for the past two years and has seen first-hand the program’s impact. “The exhibit of their work is magic,” she said. “The kids have gained confidence and pride and are in awe that the community around them has come out to see their work. This fills my heart to see such a positive change in, really, a short amount of time.” Katz, too, is grateful for the Herbergers’ participation in the event. “I grew up in Scottsdale and the fami-

ly name Herberger was always linked to the arts. They were influential in building this community to honor and showcase art in a multitude of ways. When they agreed to do this for Kids in Focus, to me, it meant the world that, upon hearing about what KIF did, it was worthy of their time and name. I am very grateful to them,” Katz said. Billie Jo’s interest in the arts was instilled in her at a young age. “The love of the arts began when I was a young girl growing up out of Los Angeles. My mother was very similar to Kax Herberger over in California, and so I was able to be exposed to the arts at a very young age all through my life. For me, I’ve never known anything different,” she said. Billie Jo’s hope for the future of the arts in the Valley is continued growth. “I hope that everything continues to be stabilized and continues to grow and offer new and interesting things,” she said.

it’s a first that a student has addressed the Sixth Amendment. “The Sixth Amendment has never been addressed by anyone who has gotten into the finals before. There are a lot of submissions of some of the more prominent amendments. This young man went through a very interesting portrayal of why our founding fathers thought it was important to have due process, a speedy trial—all of which are contained in the 6th amendment and that impressed me,” Lane said. Lane added that the Daughters of the American Revolution look over the

first round of submissions and they decide the finalists. Lane then chooses the winner. Udbhav’s family discovered the contest online and because Udbhav always had an interest in politics and government, the contest seemed “especially exciting” to him. “The contest is to encourage young Americans to better understand one of the most important documents in the United States,” Udbhav said. Udbhav added that he learned that nothing in the Constitution should be taken for granted. “I learned that there was a long pe-

riod of time when people did not have these rights and privileges to protect themselves, and it increased my appreciation for the work of our founding fathers in protecting our rights,” he said. Udbhav met with Mayor Lane to accept his award, calling the meeting a “great privilege.” “It was a great privilege to be in the presence of someone with stature and authority, and it further inspired my desire to go into politics,” Udbhav said. “It was kind and generous of him to offer a competition like this one to encourage us to write about such an important topic.”

If you go

Noche para los Niños When: Nov. 7, 6-10 p.m. Where: Arizona Heritage Center at Papago Park, 1300 N. College Ave. Tickets: $150, tables of 10 for $2,000 Website: kidsinfocus.org

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Send your information to rhagerman@scottsdale.org

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SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

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’ flagpole. Strollers, dogs and all walking paces are welcomed. Information: 480-481-1797.

Days NOVEMBER

Sunday

3 Tail waggin’ tales

Children 6 to 10 can practice their reading skills with a certified therapy dog 2-2:45 p.m. at Mustang Library, 10101 N. 90th St. Information: 480312-7323.

Sunday Funday

Families from the Early Childhood Center can spend a fun morning learning the Torah and about Noah from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road There will be a snack, fun activities, and a petting zoo with up-close animal encounters for all. Information: 480-4837121.

Monday

4 New Faces AA meeting

Find recovery from alcohol addiction alongside this support group at 7:45 a.m. at North Scottsdale Fellowship Club, 10427 N. Scottsdale Road Club membership is not required to attend meetings.

enced teachers and other students from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Mustang Library, 10101 N. 90th St. Information: 480312-7323.

Film series: ‘Yesterday’

Enjoy the drama fantasy, “Yesterday,” 1:30-3:30 p.m. at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Information: 480-3127323.

Style and substance gospel

Explore American religious song form by singing, viewing and listening to a range of gospel music from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road Dr. Jason Thompson will provide insider knowledge about the substantive meaning the song form has for people who create, perform and listen to gospel music. Information: 480481-7024.

Mitzvah Monday

Bake chocolate chip cookies for patients and their families at Hospice of the Valley. All ingredients and materials are provided. Volunteers will bake from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road Register online at vosjcc.org/event/ mitzvah-monday/.

Tuesday

$5 Fido Frisbee Meals

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 from 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dogs are served two scrambled eggs on a frisbee and owners get to keep the frisbee. Information: www. brunchcafe.com.

ESL class

All conversation levels are encouraged to practice the English language with experi-

Let’s knit

Learn or practice knitting with others from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road Free. Information: 480-483-7121.

Alzheimer’s caregivers

This grassroots start-up group for caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients meets regular every second and fourth Tuesday at 10 a.m. at Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road

Open cards and games

Patient care is not available during the group session. Information: 1-800-272-3900.

Be calm, play mahjong

Women can learn and play mahjong, the tile-based game that was developed in China during the Qing dynasty. Wine and snacks will be provided 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road Bring a mahjong card or purchase one the night of the event for $8. Attendance is $10 to $15. Registration is required. Information: 480481-7024.

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

Yoga story time

This free children’s program for kids 3 to 5 integrates books, technology and simple yoga poses 6:15-6:45 p.m. at the Arabian Library, 10215 E. McDowell Mountain Ranch Road Parents are encouraged to join in the yoga stretches. Information: 480-312-7323.

Thursday

Twos and threes together

Young children 2 and 3 can learn social and literacy skills from 10 to 10:30 a.m. with short stories, finger-plays and action rhymes at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Information: 480-312-7323.

Books 2 boogie

Children up to 5 and their caregivers are invited to participate in music, movement and song 10:30-11 a.m. at Palomino Library, 12575 E. Via Linda. Information: 480312-7323.

Teen Advisory Board

Teens are encouraged to gather to brainstorm new ideas for teen programs and collections in the library from 5 to 6 p.m. at Arabian Library, 10215 E. McDowell Mountain Ranch Road Information: 480-3127323

Wednesday

6 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: 480312-5810.

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 benefits 3-3:45 p.m. at Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers, 8880 E. Desert Cove Ave. Information: 480-314-6660.

Little libros

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

Opera appreciation group

Opera-lovers are encouraged to join others in listening to Michael Spencers’s “A Few More of My Favorite Things” 5-7:30 p.m. at Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Information: 480348-1778.

Introductory English

This class is designed for students with no prior experience in English and takes place from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Information: 480-3127323.

Friday

8 In stitches knitters group

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 Dr. Information: 480-312-7323.

Chair yoga

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

Stay and play

Give children up to 5 an opportunity to explore, create and investigate with a playbased learning environment program from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. While children play, caregivers can learn about a variety of early childhood topics from local resource professionals. Information: 480312-7323.

Memory Cafe

Join Memory Cafe for a pet therapy session designed for community members with Alzheimer’s or dementia and their caregivers. The group meets from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Information: 480-3127323.

Saturday

9 Breast Cancer support group

Patients and caregivers are welcome to attend this support group that focuses on breast cancer from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Ironwood Cancer and

Research Centers, 8880 E. Desert Cove Ave. Information: 480-314-6660.

Citizenship workshop

This workshop provides an opportunity to study for the civics portion of the USCIS Naturalization Test from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Information: 480-312-7323.

Sunday

10 Story stop (Ages 0-5)

Build children’s literacy with a free picture book program from 2 to 2:15 p.m. at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Information: 480-3127323.

Shemesh parent �ield trip

Enjoy a Shemesh camp field trip with the entire family which includes bus transportation from and back to Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road Cost is $25 to $50 and includes transportation, unlimited laser tag, nonprize games, video games and unlimited bowling and shoes. Registration is required. Information: 480-634-4949.

Monday

11 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.

Advanced beginner bridge

Join others in playing a fun game of bridge from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Appaloosa Library, 7377 E. Silverstone Dr. Information: 480-312-7323.

Mustang poets

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

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

Kinder Enrollment

Now Open!

susd.org

zin to Any z u on B

One of Our 19 Elementary Schools to Reserve a Spot for Your Busy Little Bee

Applications are now being accepted for the 2020-2021 school year for kindergarten classes. Children who are years old before September 1 qualify.

Join Our Hive Today!

Find your school at susd.org/Schools and apply online at susd.org/Enroll. For more information, contact (480) 484-6100. @ScottsdaleUSD

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

Area Agency on Aging’s Benefits Assistance

CERTIFIED MEDICARE COUNSELORS

Protect Yourself from ENROLLMENT FRAUD Don’t let a plan representative trick you into enrolling in their plan – • Don’t Share – your Medicare

Number or Social Security Number with anyone. Plans cannot ask for your Medicare, Social Security or banking information just to provide you with information. Plans cannot ask for payment in person or over the phone – they must send you a bill.

• No Pressure – you can use the entire Open Enrollment Period to enroll in the plan you choose. There is no ‘extra benefit’ for early sign up with a plan.

• Don’t Believe – someone who

Medicare Open Enrollment is the time to review your Medicare coverage, compare it with other options and make sure your current coverage still meets your needs. During this time, you can make changes to your health insurance coverage, including changing from original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan or changing your Part D Prescription Drug Insurance provider. The changes you make will take effect on January 1, 2020. Area Agency Benefits Assistance Counselors do not represent any insurance plan and will provide you with unbiased information and detailed sign up instructions. They will help you understand the choices and find your best Medicare option.

The Area Agency Certified Medicare Counselors are available to assist you.

Call 602-280-1059 to speak with a Counselor.

The MOST SECURE way to access your personal Medicare-related information is through your official on-line Medicare account– View your Medicare claims Keep track of your prescription drugs, all in one place See upcoming preventive services you may be eligible for, and more Sign up for your official Medicare account at MyMedicare.gov

suggests their plan is preferred by Medicare or that their plan represents Medicare. Insurance plans are not allowed to say that they are Medicare’s favorite plan.

• No Free Gifts – gifts cannot

be offered for enrolling. If a plan offers a gift it must be to everyone, whether or not they enroll in that plan, and cannot have a value of more than $15.

• No Threats – you cannot lose your Medicare benefits for not signing up with a particular plan.

MEDICARE WILL NEVER • Contact you for your Medicare Number or other personal information unless you’ve given them permission in advance. • Call you to sell you anything. • Promise you things if you give them your Medicare Number— Don’t do it. • Visit you at your home. • Enroll you over the phone unless you call them first.

If you suspect Medicare fraud, call 602-280-1059

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

NEIGHBORS

Estate sales queen marks 60 years BY KRISTINE CANNON Progress Staff Writer

North

cottsda orthern Scottsdale resident le Gini Topalian celebrates a major milestone this year. It’s the 60th anniversary of her estate sale business, Gini’s Liquidation Sales, which she founded in 1959 in Birmingham, Michigan. Over the decades upon decades of estate sale experience, Topalian has racked up a pink binder’s worth of “thank you” letters, newspaper clippings about her sales, and more – all laminated, neatly organized and dating as far back as the ‘70s. “This is from a judge from Michigan,” she said, pointing at one of the letters. “When she found out I was coming to live here — she used to give me work there — she wrote a really nice letter about me.” Topalian’s business started as a hobby and part-time job in Michigan. When she moved to Arizona in 1977, she quickly made a name for herself. In addition to plenty of press and media This year, Gini Topalian celebrates her 60th anniversary owning Gini’s Liquidation Sales, the estate sale business she founded coverage, Topalian’s reputation earned her in 1959 in Birmingham, Michigan. (Kimberly Carrillo/Progress Contributor) the opportunity to work with high-profile, One particular client had Topalian nearly are worth anywhere from $4,000 to more celebrity clients, including rocker and Val- cans to picket and protest the event, claimin tears. than $1 million. ley resident Alice Cooper; French Ameri- ing the pottery belonged to them. “It was something,” she said. “When we “There was a man in Michigan when “I used to deal with real Tiffany lamps in can anthropologist, artist, and writer Paul Coze; and former Arizona Governor Fife were getting ready for the auction, we were I was still working there, and he was so Michigan. If I just had one today, I could rein the paper every day. But when we had sweet, and he was all alone and I was go- tire,” Topalian said with a laugh. “I bought Symington, among others. ing there every day. I was bringing home one for $300; my husband almost had a “As far as rewarding, I think Simonton be- the auction, the nicest thing happened.” “The first thing we wanted to auction off his laundry in my house. I felt so sorry for nervous breakdown and said, ‘It’s going to cause the court appointed me and that was was that pot, and so the Indian chief, [Ver- him,” she recalled. be hard eating glass.’” a real feather in my cap,” Topalian said. Currently, most of Topalian’s clients In fact, Topalian founded her business Estate sales are a way of liquidating the non Foster of the American Indian Movebelongings of a family or estate, and they ment], he got up and bid $1. One of my cus- are located in Scottsdale; however, estate because her sister gave her a Tiffany lamp. “I was really sick, and my sister flew in are typically held when someone is in need tomers got up and says, ‘I’ll pay $1,000.’ So sales aren’t nearly as popular today as to take care of me. She brought this old, of a way to sell items due to moving, di- naturally he got it, and he walked over and they once were. handed it to the chief.” “In those days, there was good money. little Tiffany lamp, and it grew on me. I vorce, bankruptcy, or death. The Symington auction raised $19,000. Today, it’s awful,” she said. told my brother, ‘We should start collectIn Symington’s case, the estate sale was Topalian’s experience working with the Topalian, who saw a drop-off in estate ing these antique lamps.’ Well, we graduheld due to bankruptcy. Shortly into Symington’s second term Cooper family was nothing short of memo- sales about two years ago, attributes the ated from just any old lamp that wasn’t decline to online retailers and resellers. Tiffany, stained glass ones, to the real in office as governor, around 1996, the rable, as well. “He was moving to Chicago with his wife “The minute ebay opened up and all McCoy. And it was because of my sister,” former governor filed for personal bankruptcy, claiming debts of more than $24 and kids. He was really nice – nothing like these different auction houses people, they she said. Topalian’s team, currently comprised of million due to unsuccessful real estate in- he portrays,” Topalian said. “He’s such a just would rather go online,” she said. “The gentleman, and he gave my kids gifts, like secondary market is hard to sell furniture. six people, has more than 85 years of comvestments. The young people today, they don’t like this bined professional experience in the apSymington was then ordered to sell off movie posters.” While Topalian said meeting famous beautiful, old antique furniture. They want praisal of antiques, fine art, personal prophis personal belongings to appease crederty, and estate liquidation. itors. That’s when Topalian was tapped people is the highlight of her career, she to go to Ikea.” One of the few antiques that have Topalian’s most recent estate sale was to auction off his estate, one year later does admit that it’s an emotionally taxing job. increased in value, however, is Tiffany held Nov. 2 in Scottsdale. in 1997. “I care a lot. I put myself in their shoes. lamps. “I love it,” Topalian said of her work. “They brought all of the things that were Authentic Tiffany lamps were made in “It’s not as lucrative financially as it used his to my house,” Topalian said. “Every I have a lot of empathy, especially with night, I was on TV; the reporters would the decedent’s because they feel they’ve the 1890s to 1930s by Tiffany Studios, to be because of the internet, but people trusted me with their stuff and taking care owned by Louis Comfort Tiffany. still love to come to them. We always get come and interview his estate.” The lamps, which have a bronze base, a big crowd.” At the auction, Topalian recalled a pre- of their things,” she said. “I’d find a lot of For upcoming sales: visit ginisale. historic Native American pottery up for things – treasures that they have and mon- high-quality glass made in New York, and stamped with “Tiffany Studios New York,” com. bid, which led to a group of Native Ameri- ey – and always turn it in.”

NEIGHBORS

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

Tonalea ‘challenges’ students to do the right thing BY KRISTINE CANNON Progress Staff Writer

“

South

Congratulations, you made Sco ttsdale it!” Dr. Dave Priniski, Tonalea K-8 principal, said as students piled into the gymnasium last week at the southern Scottsdale elementary school. Thirty adult volunteers were lined up into two long lines, facing one another, as they high-�ived the 100 students who made their way to the circle of chairs. They spent the next six-and-a-half hours in the gym taking part in Challenge Day. “It’s going to be one of the weirdest parties you’ve ever been to,” said one of two high-energy Challenge Day facilitators Katie Salvage. Tonalea Principal Dave Priniski ﬁst-bumps one of 100 students who participated in Challenge Day is a school program cre- the school's ﬁrst Challenge Day. (Chris Mortenson/Progress Staff Photographer) ated over 30 years ago. It’s designed to create trust and connection, get students to step out of their comfort zone and champion compassion, antibullying, and positive change. “We thought it’d be a good �it for our vision this year and especially for our kids. It’s not only anti-bullying but [also] student leadership and having kids gain more con�idence in themselves and in some of their social interactions with their peers,” Priniski said. On hand with the students and 10 Tonalea teachers were 20 other adult volunteers, including: Dr. Steven Chestnut, Scottsdale Uni�ied School District executive director of support services; Mitch Armour, Coronado High School coach for Facilitator Enrique Collazo welcomes Tonalea students as they enter the gym for boys basketball, and boys and girls track; Challenge Day. (Chris Mortenson/Progress Staff Photographer) and Governing Board members Patty Beckman, Allyson Beckham, and Jann-Mi- start as far as bringing it in, building those schools and communities across 10 counrelationships with the kids and with our tries for 1.5 million student and adults. chael Greenburg. According to studies published by U.S. Salvage and her co-facilitator Enrique adults as well. And then also having the kids Collazo led the students and adults in build relationships with each other, just to Centers for Disease Control, Youth Risk Begroup activities, games and exercises that see that they can accept people for their dif- havior Studies, Child Trends Data Banks, and the 2014 Census Bureau, 47 percent of encourage participants to examine the im- ferences instead of making fun of them.” Tonalea implemented two new social- teens have experienced some form of physpact of bullying, oppression and violence on others as well as help them �ind a sense emotional programs: Sanford Harmony, ical assault, 30 percent feel sad or hopeless designed to foster communication and a lot of the time, 28 percent are bullied, 20 of belonging. “All of us in here, we believe you should connection; and an “intervention block” percent live in poverty and 17 percent have be treated with respect,” Salvage told the addressing group behavior 30 minutes thought seriously about attempting suicide with 8 percent attempting suicide. crowd. “We don’t want anyone left out at all.” each day, four times a week. “We call it ‘family time.’ For 30 minutes Challenge Day aims to develop important Both Priniski and Assistant Principal Justin Firehawk said Tonalea held its �irst once a week, we do restorative circles, we leadership and social and emotional skills. “We talk to communities about what Challenge Day last week to focus on men- implement Sanford harmony and we really just make that classroom your family,” they’re dissatis�ied with, what they do not tal, emotional and social health. like, what they wish were different, Collazo “The thing is, especially with middle Firehawk said. “Last year was an all-academic inter- told the group. school [students], they really struggle with “We hear things like the rumors, the gosbeing appropriate with each other and re- vention period. This year, we’ve dedicated alizing people’s differences and being able 30 minutes of that week strictly to social- sip, the drama, how young people don’t feel emotional,” Firehawk added. safe at their schools; sometimes they hate to accept those,” Firehawk said, adding Challenge Day has been held in 2,200 coming to school. We’re hearing things like “This has been a no-brainer from the

homophobia, violence, addiction, racism, school shooting after school shooting after school shooting. We’re here to remind you that you have power and that you have power to change certain things.” Priniski added: “We’re starting to see an increase, not only in our school but nationwide, for the need for schools to respond to the social emotional needs of our kids.” One impactful Challenge Day activity is called “Cross the Line,” where students and adults line up and step forward whenever they – or anyone they know – have experienced a mentioned situation like bullying. They then face those who have not experienced bullying. Julie Jimenez, Tonalea speech language therapist, remarked, “What struck me is how many kids were crossing the line for all these different reasons: for poverty, for ... suicide. At such a young age, they’ve experienced a lot of trauma in their lives, and it really brings everything into perspective how some of these kids act like they’re �ine and you don’t realize what’s going on behind the scenes.” Following Challenge Day, Tonalea staff identi�ied potential leaders in the group. “Our goal is, after this day, to facilitate being the change and having groups with the students working to keep this going campus-wide,” Jimenez said. “The action is the key part. It continues on throughout not only the school year, but [also] through their daily lives.” Tonalea also recently started implementing an alternate method of discipline called “restorative justice” in which the staff works with students to come to a solution rather than simply handing down punishment. “We have been training our staff, and we make a focus that when we hire people that they love kids and they can be forgiving and give kids a second chance and a third chance every single day they walk through the door,” Firehawk said. Firehawk explained that this approach gives staff more responsibility as far as “repairing the harm that’s been done so students may make mistakes.” “Instead of going automatic to suspension or the traditional consequences for school, we will do restorative conferences with our teachers, with our students, Firehawk explained, noting: “That doesn’t mean we don’t still use traditional consequences, but that that does mean that instead of [the students] getting off …they need to work it out and we need to �igure out a way to coexist and be respectful to each other for the rest of the year.”

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

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Business

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Chamber unveils 2019 Sterling Awards Nov. 15 PROGRESS NEWS STAFF

ater this month, the Scottsdale business community will gather at the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce’s 34th-annual Sterling Awards to recognize excelling businesses of all sizes in the city. The event – Nov. 15, at the Embassy Suites Resort – includes awards for the top micro, small and big businesses in the Scottsdale area. There is also an award for the top non-profit organization. “The Sterling Awards recognize the great accomplishments of businesses in Scottsdale,” said Scottsdale Chamber President and CEO Mark Stanton. “The honorees represent innovation, success and the highest standards of business practice excellence.” Twelve businesses and organizations will be up for awards at the event. Micro business The nominees in the micro business category, which recognizes companies with one to five employees, include: 10 to 1 Public Relations. A two-time nominee for the award, 10 to 1 Public Relations is a Scottsdale-based PR and communication firm, working with

Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Mark Stanton at the Sterling Awards reception in 2018.

The Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual Sterling Awards reception brings together civic and business leaders from throughout the city to recognize top companies and non profits operating in the area. (Pablo Robles/Progress Staff Photographer)

(Pablo Robles/Progress Staff Photographer)

a range of clients from Arizona and around the country, including Plexus Worldwide, Rosendin, Vantage Mobility International, Title Alliance, Platinum Living Realty and Clinica Sierra Vista.

In June, 10 to 1 moved into a new office near Scottsdale Quarter to accommodate the company’s growing client roster. Classic Cooking. This culinary school,

located in northern Scottsdale, offers cooking and pastry courses, classes for children and teens, recreational cook-

see STERLING page 33

Axosoft workspace supports women BY OCTAVIO SERRANO Progress Staff Writer

alk through the hallways of Airpark software developers Axosoft and guests are met with vibrant modern art from local artists and creative furniture. “We’re all about the people here,” said Lawdan Shojaee, who co-founded the company with her husband Hamid, 20 years ago. “When running a business, you help curate the culture and I think we have a pretty cool one here. We have really happy people and

they’re just happy to be here. We have a lot of fitness classes here that helps them.” Last September, Axosoft created #AXOSMASH Smash Bros. Ultimate Tournament. “We had a user of ours who worked at American Express down the street and he loved our product so much that when he learned we were local, he made us a gift basket and delivered it here,” Lawdan said. “He made us custom socks, he put a whole basket of goodies and cookies and a bottle of champagne to say thank you for our

product and he also challenged us to a Smash Brothers game.” The event was aimed at enabling tech developers to share interests. “Developers want to be among peers who understand their sense of humor,” Lawdan said. “When we had the Smash Bros. game with American Express, our own team was so comfortable that we just made it into a networking event for developers.” Lawdan said the profits supported women in the workforce through Axosoft’s #ItWasNever-

see AXOSOFT page 33

Lawdan Shojaee founded Axosoft with her husband nearly 20 years ago. It has become an asset to fellow developers and a place that encourages equality in the workforce. (Pablo Robles/Progress Staff Photographer)

BUSINESS

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

Tempe to celebrate its 2 miles of paradise BY GARY NELSON Progress Contributor

“Let the most absent-minded of men be plunged in his deepest reveries — stand that man on his legs, set his feet a-going, and he will infallibly lead you to water, if water there be in all that region.” — Herman Melville, “Moby-Dick”

hundred years ago, we had to destroy our water in order to save it. The Salt River, which begins in the mountains of eastern Arizona, gave life to the region - since ancient times. Native civilizations depended upon it and early Anglo settlers followed their footsteps, even completing a redo of the ancient canals, which ushered the Salt River water to thirsty crops. But the river was fickle. Sometimes in flood, sometimes merely a droughtstarved trickle, it could not be relied on to consistently sustain the towns beginning to blossom in the Valley, as the 20th century dawned. So, we dammed it, and dammed it again, and again, and again, until the waters were trapped and ready for use only when we wanted them to be. That series of Salt River dams is largely credited with turning the East Valley into the colossus it is today. But it also turned the riverbed into a wasteland, a ghastly, rubbish-filled scar through the heart of the Phoenix metro area. But some wondered: Must civilization really come at such a price? Why

lion of the initial $45.5 million construction cost. In return, Mark Mitchell said, the city has derived more than $2 billion in economic benefits from construction, tourism and associated revenues. “It’s far greater than a dry riverbed,” he said. “It really benefits the entire region.” The lake’s statistical profile also includes these numbers: • 2.5 million visitors a year, making it second only to the Grand Canyon as a tourism draw in Arizona. • 40 major organized For 20 years, Tempe Town Lake has been a recreation draw and an economic development events per year, including engine that has generated thousands of jobs. (Special to the Progress) big-time athletic competitions and community festiand letting the water do its magic. couldn’t that scar be erased? vals. The result: Tempe Town Lake beBeginning in the 1960s, folks at Ari• 42,000 jobs within one mile of the zona State University not only asked came a shimmering two-mile-long oa- water, many of them in high-paying those questions, but they came up with sis and one of the largest magnets at- sectors of the economy. an answer in the form of a proposal to tracting tourism, business and culture • 30,000 residents within one mile of rehabilitate the riverbed all the way to the American Southwest. the lake. The lake welcomed its first visitors from far east Mesa to the West Valley. Many of those jobs and residences lie After years of refinement, the so- 20 years ago this month and Tempe is within the gleaming facades of a midcalled Rio Salado project (salado is celebrating with a year-long commem- rise skyline that has sprung up on both “salt” in Spanish) went to Maricopa oration, kicking off with a big party at shores since the lake was filled. County voters in 1987. They choked on the lake on Nov. 9. None of that comes as a surprise to Mayor Mark Mitchell said the payoff Neil Giuliano, who served as Tempe the price tag and said no. But one cohort of voters backed the for Tempe’s investment is immense. mayor 1994-2004 and is now presiMitchell’s father, Harry, also served as dent and CEO of Greater Phoenix Leadidea. So, armed with that approval from Tempe mayor and was instrumental in ership, a private entity focusing on imtheir constituency, Tempe officials de- keeping the idea alive after the 1987 proving the region’s quality of life. cided their part of the Salt River would election defeat. “We did have a long-term vision for With some help from other governsomeday again be beautiful. They would build a lake and parks around it, mental entities, Tempe paid $42.3 milsee LAKE page 34

Town Lake community celebration PROGRESS NEWS STAFF

he community celebration of Tempe Town Lake’s 20th anniversary won’t just be a look back. It also is a preview of what lies ahead. City spokeswoman Melissa Quillard said the Nov. 9 party will reflect elements of a Town Lake master plan adopted by the City Council last year. The plan divides the area around the lake into six themed zones, each of which will be activated for free events between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Quillard broke it down this way:

NORTH SIDE Adventure Zone: Zipline, rock wall, game stations. Athletic Zone: ASU volleyball tournament, recreation classes, fishing. Marina: Stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, rowing demonstrastions, yoga classes, dragon boat rides, sailing tours. SOUTH SIDE Arts and Eco Zone: Gallery at the Tempe Center for the Arts, public art displays, bird-watching, NASA cloud viewing, water talks, Tai Chi classes.

Entertainment Zone: Live music all day at Beach Park, food trucks, city and sponsor booths. Riviera: Boardwalk experience with mini Sixth Street Market, games, exhibits, zumba classes. Free water taxis will shuttle folks across the water to the activity zones. The aim, Quillard said, to use the day as “a preview of what it’s going to be like in the next 20 years” as the lake and its surrounding areas mature. Parking shouldn’t be an issue, she said, even though it will be Family Weekend at Arizona State University

and ASU is hosting Southern Cal for a football game that day. Parking will be available west of the arts center, other downtown spaces are available, and access also is available via light rail and its numerous park-and-rides. In addition to the public event, Tempe is sponsoring a business mixer at the arts center 4-7 p.m. on Nov. 8 to emphasize the economic opportunities generated by the lake. That event, although free, requires an RSVP. Details are available at Tempe. gov/lake.

BUSINESS

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

STERLING �� page 31

ing classes and wine dinners. Owners Pascal and Donna Dionot opened the business in 2007, with the goal of bringing a quality culinary education program to the Valley. Chef Pascal Dionot is a native of Champagne, France, who trained in France, Germany and Spain, before becoming executive chef at the Hay Adams Hotel in Washington, D.C. in 1979. He taught at L’Academie de Cuisine in Maryland for 18 years. Green Bin. This Tempe business rents out recyclable bins to commercial and residential customers throughout the Valley as an alternative to cardboard moving boxes. The bins are reused more than 400 times before they are recycled at the end of their life, according to the company. Each bin is cleaned with non-toxic, biodegradable cleaner after each use. Green Bin also gives back to the Valley communities it serves by donating bins for use to area nonprofit organizations.

Small business The small business category recognizes organizations with 6 to 99 employees. The nominees are: Casago. This Scottsdale vacation rental and property management company has properties in Arizona, California and Mexico. The company began as a vacation rental provider in Rocky Point, Mexico, 20 years ago and has since expanded to offer short term vacation rentals, longterm rentals, corporate housing and other related services.

AXOSOFT �� page 31

ADress, a scholarship program for females who want to study software development. The couple started the program after Lawdan felt it was “disappointing” to not have more females in the tech space. “We gave three scholarships to three software engineer females who went through a bootcamp,” Lawdan said. “They went through an eight-month course and now they are ready to go into the workforce. We celebrated them and they’re starting internships. They’re going into the workforce and they’re going to become active participants of this ecosystem.” Lawdan said she looks for applicants’ willingness and dedication to learn. It’s not about where they come from, but

The company is up for a 2019 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics and was also honored by Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate. TraVek. This full-service home remodeling business started in Scottsdale in 2001. Prior to opening TraVek with his wife and children, owner Randy Raisanen, started a house painting company in Minnesota before moving to Arizona in 1984, to partner in a home improvement business. Today, TraVek’s services include bathroom and kitchen remodeling, home additions and handyman services. In 2018, TraVek’s Von and Todd Raisanen received the Big50 designation for kitchen remodeling from Remodeling magazine, which recognizes top professionals throughout the country. Windom Security Strategies Today. This Scottsdale company provides training, security assessments, on-site security and other services to a variety of customers, including schools, churches, neighborhood associations and commercial customers. The company is the result of a merger of Alexis Security Group and Security Strategies Today. Windom’s staff is made up of 89 percent veterans or former law enforcement and the company also gives back to veteran-related charities, including Operation Hero Project, PTSD Foundation of America and Marine Raider Foundation.

Big business The big business category recognizes organizations with 100 or more employees. This year, the nominees

are: Hotel Valley Ho. This downtown Scottsdale mainstay opened in 1956, and played host to celebrities like Bing Crosby and Zsa Zsa Gabor. Designed by architect Edward Varney, the hotel is an example of midcentury, modern architecture. The hotel was restored in the early 2000s, to reflect those stylistic roots. The hotel, which includes two pools, a spa, and the ZuZu restaurant, now hosts a number of activities throughout the year, including yoga, historic tours and holiday meals. Plexus. From its headquarters in the Scottsdale Airpark, Plexus Worldwide runs one of the world’s largest direct-selling companies with 400 employees on-site in Scottsdale. Through a network of contractors, the company sells a variety of dieting, gut health and skincare supplements. Plexus, a finalist at last year’s Sterling Awards, has a history of giving back to the community. Earlier this year, Plexus employees contributed 418 volunteer hours to the St. Mary’s Food Bank in Phoenix. The company also sponsored a new police dog for the Salt River Police Department. Wells Fargo. This American multinational financial services company, headquartered in San Francisco, has central offices throughout the United States. It is the world’s fourth-largest bank by market capitalization and the fourth largest bank in the US by total assets.

Nonprofit The nonprofit category recognizes organizations that contribute to the social, cultural or educational wellbeing of the community. The nominees are: The Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary. Located in Scottsdale, the sanctuary is the only facility of its kind in the state and maintains Arizona’s largest anti-venom bank. The organization cares for approximately 1,000 reptiles, including endangered species, and provides educational services to first responders, animal control and other individuals who may come into contact with reptiles. The sanctuary also advocates for environmental conservation and the protection of the many varieties of wildlife it houses. Harvest Compassion Center. Operated by Mitchell Swaback Charities, this Phoenix-based food bank allows underserved Valley residents to procure everything from food items and personal hygiene products to clothing with the help of a personal shopper. The center currently operates two locations in Phoenix and Maryvale. Harvest Compassion Center has served over 32,000 families since opening in 2011. Scottsdale Arts. This non-profit manages the City of Scottsdale’s cultural assets and the Civic Center campus, including the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Additionally, Scottsdale Arts produces a number of performances and educational opportunities each year, including Canal Convergence and Scottsdale ArtsFest.

their motivation to shape their future and become part of the software development field. “It was just a basic movement on shifting people’s perspectives. We need the other half of the conversation in the rooms while we’re developing tools,” Lawdan said. “In five years, my optimistic dream is, if we could have a workforce that was close to 50% female to male, that would be fantastic. If I got 20 or 30 percent female (developers), that would be in itself an accomplishment.” Axosoft was born out of the necessity of Hamid to problem-solve efficiently and then came GitKraken. Axosoft V1.0 (then called OnTime) was released in 2002, with the goal of shipping software on time and on budget. It has been developing GitKraken

since 2014, and it has quickly become a popular Git GUI client for Windows, Mac and Linux developers. Keeping clients happy, however, is as important as keeping its employees in the right state of mind, which is why Axosoft offers large spaces where developers can work together and let the creativity flow. Lawdan’s goal is to turn the Valley into the “Silicon Desert,” a play on “Silicon Valley.” Axosoft created AZ CoWork to support and foster the next generation of fast-growing tech companies in Arizona. The company hosts codeathons and conferences and sponsors developer groups. “What’s happening in Silicon Valley is interesting. People have these amazing paychecks and can’t find a place to live. They can’t enjoy the fantastic weather

that exists in San Francisco because they’re always hustling,” Lawdan said. Rather than encouraging young software developers to move to San Francisco, she wants them to relocate to the Valley. “We just basically tap into the local talent here. We’re trying to build an ecosystem of techies,” Lawdan said. Axosoft, however, can’t do so alone so the staff is looking to forge relationships with its peers. There are still holes in the industry, but they’re doing their best to right the ship. With events like its tournament, Axosoft could become part of the rising move toward the “Silicon Desert.” “We’re building more than just software, we’re building a community of techies and the more of us that exist, the better off we all are,” Lawdan said.

BUSINESS

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

LAKE �� page 32

the development of the lake itself and then all the surrounding area,” Giuliano said, “and by large, it is becoming what it was envisioned to be. It’s not done yet, still has a long way to go, but everybody feels pretty good about the success so far.” Developing the lake, he said, was “a very, very complex, long-term project that involved probably close to 40 different partnerships in the private sector, public sector, government sector, nonprofit sector – everyone really had to be involved in this.” They stayed on task despite a chorus of critics who, Giuliano said, complained “it would be a folly, no one’s ever going to build anything around a fake lake, it’s not going to attract anything but mosquitoes, on and on and on. “But we moved forward with good information, solid knowledge, and we were taking a level of risk that was well within our capacity as a community to make something really tremendous happen.” “We didn’t have to raise taxes to build the lake,” Giuliano said. “That was very important to us at the time. The other thing that was important to us was that the entire perimeter – 100 percent of the perimeter of the lake – would allow for public access. "Nothing would ever be able to be built right up to the lake itself.” Kris Baxter-Ging, a spokeswoman for the city, said water for the initial fill came from the Colorado River via the Central Arizona Project and later the city used tax credits to bring water from the Salt River system itself. Now, she said, the lake is sustained naturally from water that trickles

This map shows the outline of the lake. Originally, planners wanted to extend it to the West Valley but voters nixed it because of the astronomical cost. (Special to the Progress)

through the riverbed – water that also feeds several riparian areas near Town Lake itself. Evaporation from the lake, she said, is about equal to that from two golf courses. If there was ever a moment when people wondered whether the lake had been a good idea, it probably came in July 2010 when one of the rubber bladders that served as the lake’s dam burst, draining the water in a flash flood in which, mercifully, nobody died. Later analysis posited that the relentless Arizona sun took a premature toll on the rubber dam, which was replaced by a sturdier hinged-gate dam system. The grand vision for a restored Salt River channel didn't die when voters sunk the Rio Salado project in 1987. Revived efforts are being incubated at ASU. Variously referred to as Rio Salado 2.0 and Rio Reimagined, the plans encompass an area from Granite Reef Dam in

east Mesa to the Tres Rios Wetlandsm a complex for wastewater treatment near 91st Avenue in the West Valley. The idea got a major boost from Sen. John McCain in 2017, a year before he died. But both Guliano and Mitchell say the big task will involve leading various municipalities with different needs into agreeing on how to accomplish it –and pay for it. For now, Baxter-Ging said benefits of the lake extend far beyond its immediate neighborhood. “If you’re a Tempe resident and you never go to Town Lake, you’re still benefitting from it,” she said. “Those 42,000 jobs that are around the lake, those are very good jobs. A lot of them are in fields like cybersecurity and technology.” She added, “Not only are we bringing good jobs, but all the benefits that

comes from town Lake translates into city services, like police officers, firefighters, improved streets. That money comes back into our city to improve our community.” But, she said, it’s not just about the money, or even the recreation. “Town Lake isn’t just a place where people go to do something,” she said. “Town Lake is a place that becomes the backdrop for amazing memories for people. "This is where people go on Sunday evenings with their families for walks. This is the place where maybe you swam your first triathlon or ran your first 5K run. This might be the place where you proposed marriage to your wife. “The 2.5 million people who visit here every year are choosing to come here for a reason. It’s become a beautiful part of our community, a place where we all go to be together.”

Casino and Salt River Fields. “We are pleased with the continued growth of Residence Inn in the Scottsdale area,” said Diane Mayer, vice president and global brand manager, Residence Inn. “This new hotel offers a seamless blend of modern style and functionality that allows them to settle in and thrive.” Residence Inn properties offer studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites and boast of “plush mattresses and crisp linens, while guests focused on being productive will value their suite’s large, well-lit work desk, ergonomic

chair and complimentary high-speed Internet access.” Designed for stays of five nights or more, each suite also has a fullyequipped kitchen with a coffeemaker, microwave oven and residential-sized appliances. Marriott said the hotel’s “livable, uplifting environment” is enhanced by “honest materials, organic forms, warm colors and natural light.” The Residence Inn Scottsdale Salt River features artwork and décor focused on Scottsdale’s Native American history.

The Residence Inn Scottsdale Salt River offers a free hot breakfast, 24hour onsite food and beverage market, dry cleaning services and onsite guest laundry room. The hotel is pet-friendly and provides guests with business services, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center and putting green. Other hotel amenities include 2,670 square feet of meeting space to accommodate functions of up to 300 people, an outdoor event space called Eagle’s Nest Lawn and a full-service bar serving lunch and dinner.

New 111-suit Marriott debuts in Scottsdale PROGRESS NEWS STAFF

he 111-suite Residence Inn by Marriott in Scottsdale has debuted with an upscale, stylish décor that offers flexibility and a unique environment. Located at 5351 North Pima Road, the all-suite Residence Inn Scottsdale Salt River is owned by Salt River Devco and managed by Marriott International, Inc. Its location is being touted for its convenient access to the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community, Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall, Talking Stick

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

OPINION

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

Opinion

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Letters Vote ‘no’ on city bonds: Here’s why I did

Before you vote to raise your own taxes, ask yourself why Mayor Jim Lane and the city council want you to raise your taxes to patch potholes and band=aid bridges? Where’s all the tax money we already paid, a large part of which should have gone to infrastructure maintenance? Where are the development fees that were supposed to pay for new �ire stations? Where is the “in lieu” parking fees that were supposed to build parking garages? They’ve managed to �ind (or worse, borrow) millions to subsidize the PGA, Phil Mickelson, the NFL, the Charros, the money-losing Museum of the West, and the private Scottsdale Cultural Council (aka “Scottsdale Arts”), which enjoys a multidecade, no-bid contract, free rent in taxpayer-owned facilities, and a $4+ million taxpayer-funded cash subsidy every year. They’ve undertaken millions of dollars’ worth of unnecessary “�lood mitigation” for the sole purpose of bailing out a massive real estate development (Crossroads East). The mayor’s campaign PR huckster, Jason Rose, has pocketed hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars for his polo parties. Jason doesn’t even live in Scottsdale. I wonder why he’s supporting the bonds? Because he will get even more Scottsdale taxpayer money next year! Lane and cronies have assembled a committee of simpletons, sycophants, and swampers to promote the notion that adding to Scottsdale’s billion-plus

dollars in debt is a better idea than �iscal responsibility. And rather than giving you ballot line items, they’ve created a shell game of “groups” in which you can’t vote for what you want without approving the �luff that they and their campaign contributors want. Don’t fall for it. Vote NO on all questions. - John Washington

Override will prevent our schools from decline

There is nothing more important to our future than the education of the young people who will be leading us there someday. I know the system is not perfect, and there have been challenges along the way, but withholding �inancial resources that improve the classroom experience is not the solution. When schools are in tip-top shape, property values in the surrounding areas appreciate crime drops and the network of community involvement increases. If we allow our schools to deteriorate, we open the door for blight, failed educational experiences, crime and neighborhood decline. Protect our future. Vote for the override. -Bill Crawford

SUSD override a vital step for our kids’ future

We have mailed in our SUSD override

ballots and we both enthusiastically voted yes. We hope you do too. Arizona public education is underfunded. Our children have never known a fully-funded education in their K-12 careers, and one is a sophomore in college. As a result, we co-chaired the 2014 and 2016 Yes to Children campaigns for SUSD. The override failed in 2013 and 2014 brought signi�icant changes to SUSD. Every Wednesday became an early release day, elementary PE, art, music, and band decreased, and class sizes grew. To say that we were desperate for an override renewal would be an understatement. Thankfully, our efforts paid off with a solid win in 2014. It is hard to believe, but that same override is about to begin phasing out if not renewed. It is not an increase to your taxes, but a continuation. Homeowners in SUSD boundaries pay one of the lowest property tax rates in the Phoenix Metro area. For the cost of a drink at Starbucks once a month, your YES vote will support nearly 23,000 children. We ask you to consider it an investment in our future. We are grateful to the taxpayers who funded our public education years ago and consider our “Yes” votes as returning the favor. SUSD has had a rough few years in the administration and governing board departments, but the teaching and learning in the classroom never wavered. Thankfully, SUSD is back on track after parents and community members fought for accountability and transparency. You can trust that your tax dollars are

spent wisely in Scottsdale Uni�ied because the community will accept nothing less. -Karen Treon and Cindy Bitcon

Four on City Council envy Tempe’s tall buildings

Four members of Scottsdale’s City Council envy the tall buildings in Tempe and want in on the action. These include Mayor Lane, Virginia Korte, Linda Milhaven, and Suzanne Klapp. They have approved what seems innocuous in the Old Town Character Area, allowing Type 3 areas permitting buildings up to 150 feet high in the area. Currently, there is a land rush by developers to take advantage of this. They hunger for more of�ice buildings, hotels, and much more density. What is driving them? The desire to �lip properties previously zoned for much lower permitted heights. They stand to make a huge windfall and have no care for the long term impact on on our tourism industry. Most of our art galleries, small businesses, and restaurants in Old Town will be out of business, unable to afford lease rents. Recall that our tourism industry has been a sustaining source of Scottsdale’s tax base. Both Virginia Korte and Suzanne Klapp have indicated that they want to run for mayor after Mayor Lane terms out in 2021. If you love Scottsdale, I urge our citizens to join together to oppose this. If we don’t, 10 years from now no one will recognize Scottsdale as it becomes an “urban anywhere.” -John Nichols

City bond proposal vital to arts community BY FRENCH THOMPSON Progress Guest Writer

cottsdale is a world-class city and arts destination. We would like it to remain that way. That is why the Scottsdale Gallery As-

sociation is strongly endorsing Questions 1, 2 and 3 on the Nov. 5 ballot. Our group represents art galleries and businesses that actively promote the arts in the City of Scottsdale. We put on the Every Thursday Night ArtWalk and the Scottsdale Gold Palette ArtWalk. Scottsdale’s arts community sees

first-hand what makes the city stand out to visitors, residents and businesses. As business owners, we see what makes Scottsdale great and what Scottsdale needs. Like with our businesses, our community also needs to invest in our future. We cannot rest on our laurels as an arts destination as well as a great

and welcoming place to live, visit, work and start a business. The competition around the country is fierce. That is why we need to Vote Yes on all three questions. The infrastructure investments and improvements in Questions 1, 2 and 3

�� THOMPSON �� 37

OPINION

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

First responders need your ‘yes’ vote on bonds BY KEEGAN DESHOTEL Progress Guest Writer

cottsdale’s �irst responders put their lives on the line every day for our community. I see it every day serving with the Scottsdale Police Department the past four years and throughout my law enforcement career. Now, it is the community’s turn to invest in our police of�icers, �ire�ighters and paramedics who help make Scottsdale a safe and vibrant community. Voting Yes on Questions 1, 2 and 3 will help our �irst responders do our jobs better and respond faster and more ef�iciently and effectively to the community that can save lives in situations where seconds count. I have seen the difference just a few seconds can make during my seven years in law enforcement both in Scottsdale

and while serving on the police force at Northern Arizona University. That is why the Scottsdale Fraternal Order of Police (which is part of the largest law enforcement labor organization in the country) strongly supports all three bond measures on the Nov. 5 ballot. The Scottsdale Fire Fighters Association and Police Of�icers of Scottsdale Association have also enthusiastically endorsed Questions 1, 2 and 3. All 58 projects in the $319 million program can be viewed here: scottsdaleaz. gov/elections/bond-2019-project-list That includes renovating the Via Linda and Foothills District Police Stations, modernizing the Scottsdale City Jail, installing bulletproof glass in police stations, upgrades to our 911 system and better training facilities for �irst responders. Other cities in the Valley have already taken measures to protect their employ-

ees and have installed bulletproof glass at their stations. Scottsdale shouldn’t be any different. The bond program before voters will also lift the quality of life for our Scottsdale seniors through the expansions of the Granite Reef and Via Linda Senior Centers. The bond will also help families who use the Paiute Neighborhood Center in the southern part of the city for critical

to a young person’s development and growth. All three of our children were swimmers starting at age 5. They all continued to swim through college at the University of Michigan, Cornell University and the University of Illinois. All three of our kids are now medical doctors and swimming played a big role in their success. It taught our kids discipline and commitment. That is why we are strong supporters of Voting Yes on Questions 1, 2 and 3 with a focus on the improvements at Cactus Pool. The pool is already home to some of the top competitive and high school swimmers in the state and nation. The Chapar-

ral Girls Swim and Dive Team won the national championship last season. We have Olympic hopefuls training there. The problem is there is never enough pool time for our aspiring swimmers and top teams to practice especially for longer distance events. Swimmers and teams face waiting lists and time constraints just to practice the sport they love. This is a problem with a solution. The Scottsdale bond questions on the Nov. 5 ballot will signi�icantly increase capacity upgrade Cactus Pool. The expansion and improvements will offer more pool time for top swimmers as well as the families and seniors who use also use the pool. The proposed upgrades to the Cactus Pool will also put Scottsdale on the map

The bond program before voters will also lift the quality of life for our Scottsdale seniors through the expansions of the Granite Reef and Via Linda Senior Centers.

family and community services. Scottsdale voters have not approved a major bond program in 19 years leaving our city with infrastructure and facilities that need repair and upgrades. Public safety and technology have continuously changed since 2000. Many of the projects in Questions 1, 2 and 3 will help Scottsdale stay modern and safe. Many of those same projects will not get done at all without voters approving all three measures. Scottsdale’s �irst responders rush into danger, save lives and protect property. Our �irst responders put the community in front of their own safety every day. We do that because we care about the community we protect and serve. Now it’s the community’s chance to invest in our �irst responders and public safety by voting “Yes” on Questions 1, 2 and 3. -Keegan DeShotel is president of the Scottsdale Fraternal Order of Police.

City bond questions are personal to me BY BETTY JANIK Progress Guest Writer

uestions 1, 2 and 3 are very personal to me and my family. The 58 projects in the $319 million program will help our �irst responders, our seniors and our arts community. My family is very interested in one project in the Scottsdale bond questions that will help our community’s great young swimmers. We are excited to see a 50 percent increase in pool capacity and facility improvements at the Cactus Pool. We know how important swimming (and other youth sports) can be

THOMPSON �� 36

are crucial for Scottsdale’s arts community, overall quality of life, tourism and future prosperity. If approved, the bonds will renovate the Stage 2 Theater at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts so it can host more events. Civic Center Plaza will get critical repairs and improvements after parts of the community icon have been closed because of emergency repairs to the crumbling

Drinkwater Boulevard Bridge. Those repairs will allow Civic Center Plaza to host the cultural, culinary, arts and community that make it and Scottsdale special. Old Town Scottsdale will get pedestrian improvements and more public parking so visitors and residents can better connect to all the great events, galleries, shops and restaurants that make it a world-renowned destination. Walkability and accessibility are

key ingredients in Scottsdale’s appeal. The infrastructure investments on the November ballot enhance Old Town Scottsdale. We have been frequent voices and even critics of city policies for public parking. Voting Yes will help alleviate issues and concerns among merchants. We also support Questions 1, 2 and 3 because they make needed infrastructure repairs and investments that will help public safety, seniors as

for top events and meets. Scottsdale will bene�it from the tourism and publicity from those events. We already see what hosting equestrian events, Spring Training baseball and major youth sports events do for Scottsdale in attracting visitors and their spending. We have world-class swimmers and swim teams in Scottsdale. They deserve �irst-class facilities that will also be used by families and seniors. Questions 1, 2 and 3 delivers that and I am Voting Yes on all three in the Nov. 5 election. -Betty Janik is a Scottsdale resident and is president of the Coalition of Greater Scottsdale. well as parks and recreation. We have high expectations for Scottsdale because our visitors and residents expect premier experiences here. Voting Yes on Questions 1, 2 and 3 will help Scottsdale and its arts community keep meeting those great expectations. -French Thompson is the owner of French Designer Jeweler on Main Street and president of the Scottsdale Gallery Association.

SPORTS & RECREATION

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Notre Dame player �ights off adversity BY CHASE DRIEBERG Progress Contributing Writer

n a scorching Arizona morning in August 2018, Notre Dame Prep tight end J.D. Roberts was taking part in a pre-season scrimmage with his teammates. He was excited about the team and looked forward to his sophomore season with the Saints. On a play where the Notre Dame quarterback retreated into the pocket, Roberts ran his route. He caught the pass and turned up�ield, but as he neared the sideline his knee hyperextended, forcing him to the turf. “I honestly thought I was �ine,” Roberts said. “It was one of those stingers where you get up and walk off.” The diagnosis was an injury no athlete wishes to hear. Roberts suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The injury would take 12 months to fully heal after having the ligament repaired in surgery. It was an uphill battle for the tight end who was already receiving interest from colleges. To Roberts, the injury was detrimental. “I de�initely got a little depressed, but then I just attacked it and I knew I could not feel sorry for myself,” Roberts said. “I just have to go get it.” An injury as severe as an ACL tear takes its toll both mentally and physically. In many cases, mental obstacles can outlast the physical recovery. However, for Roberts, this was just another chapter of adversity he has gone through in his life. “When I was 11, in the spring season, I was very nauseated, always in pain, constantly dehydrated and I would pass out after a big meal,” Roberts recalled. Tests revealed that Roberts had Type I Diabetes, an illness no 11-year old should have to deal with so early in life. It requires constant attention and multiple insulin shots a day to control sugar. Despite the unfamiliar feelings and experience, Roberts took it in stride. “J.D. actually gave himself his �irst shot,” said Mike Roberts, J.D.’s father. “He told the doctors, ‘I want to do it,’ and he has

Notre Dame Prep junior tight end J.D. Roberts has faced adversity his entire life battling Type 1 diabetes and most recently, a tear to his ACL. (Photo courtesy Notre Dame Prep)

given himself every shot since then.” The mentality of wanting to give himself his �irst shot says a lot about Roberts' character and perseverance. For those close to him, it doesn’t come as a surprise. “It is obviously really hard, and it dictates a lot of how he lives his life, but he has done a really good job of keeping it in perspective,” Mike said of diabetes and

ACL tear. “He doesn’t let it de�ine him in any way.” Any athlete recovering from injury works closely with the training staff to ensure they take the necessary steps to recovery. For Roberts, open communication with the team’s athletic trainer, Jake Arnold, was key. “The most important thing for both of

us was to develop our communication with one another,” Arnold said. “He has done a great job getting his body back in shape after his injury and I have no doubt he will achieve whatever goals he sets for himself.” Roberts has more than just maintaining strength in his knee to worry about on a day-to-day basis. It requires mental toughness and resilience to stay on top of an illness like diabetes. “His attention to detail at such a young age is unmatched,” Arnold said. “Both with his diabetes, and his knee, J.D. is extremely self-aware about how he is feeling, or what he needs to do to get right. “You just do not �ind an athlete who missed an entire season due to injury and is still as committed to bettering himself in every way at such a young age.” Roberts has become stronger with each obstacle thrown in his path. He has used the adversity he’s faced as fuel, rather than an excuse. “It is all part of my story, they are all just things I have had to overcome,” said Roberts. “I took my �irst diabetes shot at 11 and from there I took responsibility for myself and I had to mature faster than most 11-year-olds.” Despite the bleak days a little over a year ago, the junior has worked hard to be back on the �ield with his teammates this season. His father believes the experiences he has had will help craft him into a leader later in life because the little things do not mean a lot to him and it takes a lot to shake him. “This has given him wisdom that other kids his age may not have,” Mike said. “The ACL is hard, but diabetes is forever.” The ACL tear could have been an injury that denied Roberts the opportunity to return to form, but the health surrounding his diabetes is what is most important. Roberts knows he has worked hard to be where he is, and he is prepared to continue moving forward. “I have overcome so many adversities and I feel that it has really prepared me for the next level,” Roberts said.

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

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Local company hopes to change esports landscape BY WARREN YOUNGER Cronkite News

he Phoenix metropolitan area is one of 13 markets in the country with teams from all four major professional sports leagues. Of those, only three lack an esports team in the Overwatch League or the Call of Duty World League. Phoenix is one of them, along with Detroit and Denver. The �ifth-largest city in the nation is falling behind when it comes to esports. Do Not Peek Entertainment, a �irst-ofits-kind esports production company based out of Sneaky Big Studios in Scottsdale, hopes to help change that. “We want to �igure out how we can bring more esports to Arizona,” said Scott Smith, co-founder of Do Not Peek Entertainment. Smith, who has been in the esports industry for 20 years, held many roles, from freelance journalist to CEO/COO of one of the most successful esports franchises of all time, Evil Geniuses. His best friend and the other half of Do Not Peek Entertainment, Jason Baker, has a similar run in the esports industry, including a stint as a producer for “Eleague” on TBS. The esports production company will open its studio doors to teams and organizations for a wide array of uses, such as broadcasting, advertising, marketing and more. The company will also create original content with the goal of becoming something akin to the ESPN of esports. For Baker and Smith, opening up DNP was a no-brainer. “Back then, we were a little ahead of the curve and it was much harder to do,” Smith said. “We have been talking forever. Wouldn’t it be cool if we can do it all again now that Twitch and YouTube Live is here?’” The idea is a dream for Baker and Smith, but the execution was not something they could have dreamed of. Smith didn’t know Sneaky Big, owned by godaddy.com founder Bob Parsons, existed in Arizona – let alone in his own backyard. Smith said he received an email from Sneaky Big through a mutual friend in January. Sneaky Big wanted to learn more about the esports industry and knew Smith was a freelance broadcaster working in the �ield. He was just the

Although skeptical, Shackelford said that having DNP around could be huge for Arizona esports and potential for local organizations such as SAK. “If these companies are serious about supporting local grassroots esports organizations, I think the best place to start is to reach out to those organizations and ask, ‘What do you need and how can we help you get there?’” he said. DNP said it doesn’t “want to step on anyone’s toes.” With esports growing in popularity at every level, including Do Not Peek Entertainment owners Jason Baker, left, and Scott Smith see a bright future for esports college, DNP wants to in Arizona. (Cronkite News) focus on collegiate esports in Arizona as well. person Sneaky Big needed. to disparage those that have been here “We absolutely want to �igure out how “I get here and they show me around,” growing the scene.” Smith said. “I was blown away. I’ve “Maybe we are like the cheerleaders?” to work with colleges and how to help them,” Smith said. “The college scene is never seen something this nice and this Baker added. permanent in the nice part of town.” DNP’s biggest in-state candidate to awesome.” Tyler Vore, a community manager for At the same time, Baker was consult- “cheer on” might be SAK Gaming, the ing with GG Group, an esports business largest esports tournament organizer in the ASU esports club, talked with Baker �irm in Canada, which was looking to ex- the state. SAK Gaming specializes in the and Smith. He said that DNP can have a pand its reach. They just happened to be �ighting game community, with a heavy huge impact on college esports. “For one, I think they can show creating a production studio and that’s focus on smash, and has built its brand schools like ASU and U of A that esports when Smith called Baker. purely through grassroots efforts. “If it didn’t have to be in speci�ic locaStephen Shackelford, the owner of is a booming business and growing fast,” tions like Toronto or Atlanta then you SAK Gaming, said that DNP seems a Vore said. “As far as speci�ics go, I would all should come see this place and gut lot like another production company, love to see collaborations to show off check that I’m not losing my mind on Thunder Studios, which is located in the esports scenes of the schools that how cool this place is,” Smith told Baker. Southern California. Thunder Studios already have them.” Vore said when it comes to using DNP Sneaky Big Studios is a state-of-the- recently entered the esports platform, for college esports, one thing he menart, 15,000-square-feet production speci�ically Super Smash Brothers. studio that was created in 2016. Some Thunder Studios has received back- tioned was using the space for a photoof the clients the company has worked lash for how it has operated in the smash shoot, just like the Arizona Coyotes did at Sneaky Big for a shoot earlier this year. with include CNN, ESPN, Sony and the community in Southern California. “ASU did a very small version last now-defunct AAF. It has attempted to take over the soGG Group, along with Smith and Bak- cial smash scene by hosting events with year where we had all the players get er, decided to partner with Sneaky Big huge prize pools at its Thunder Studio headshots done but without having a Studios to create Do Not Peek Entertain- location that, Shackelford said, are only solid space it’s quite dif�icult,” Vore said. ment. really accessible to the best players in “Our teams don’t have a lot of exposure, “I still pinch myself as I’m driving to the world due to massive venue and reg- so working with DNP in any capacity would be amazing.” work,” Smith said. “It really is the per- istration fees. With DNP looking to improve the limfect deal.” Those fees exclude a wide majority of “I got here an hour early this morning players and people in the community. ited esports landscape, Smith is dreambecause I couldn’t wait!” Baker added. Shackelford is worried that DNP might ing big. “I want to �igure out how to bring the The goal is to put Arizona on the es- do the same. ports map, but Smith and Baker remain “The worst thing they can do is say, bigger events to Arizona,” Smith said. humble. ‘We want to help grassroots esports “We have the studio, we have arenas, we “Being the �lag holders might seem events by hosting grassroots esports have the hotels. We have all the things egotistical of us,” Smith said. “There events themselves which is kind of like that will excite the big esports groups. “I’m really excited about bringing Arihave been organizations here longer what Thunder Gaming is doing,” Shackzona to the world of esports.” than us grinding away and I don’t want elford said.

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‘Elsewhere’ exhibit a mind-bending experience BY KRISTINE CANNON Progress Staff Writer

ouseplants that “talk” upon gentle touch. Piano keys that can trigger people on TV screens to sing the notes. A cast of sewing machines performing a choreographed song and dance. At Wonderspaces’ new exhibition “Elsewhere,” visitors are prompted to question their reality. “These are many of the works in the show that take things that you know or are familiar with and then use them in a way that is unexpected,” said Wonderspaces Co-Founder and President Jason Shin. “Many of the pieces in the show bend your expectations, suggesting that the rules that we are very familiar with of how the world works doesn’t have to work this way,” he explained. “And that’s the intention of the show.” “Elsewhere” features 13 interactive and participatory art installations from artists around the world. They include Gregory Lasserre & Anaïs met den Ancxt’s “Akousmaflore,” the

Wonderspaces’ new exhibit, “Elsewhere,” opened Oct. 12. “Elsewhere” features 13 interactive and participatory art installations from artists around the world, including NONOTAK Studio’s light installation “Hoshi.” (Carly Matsumoto/Special to the Progress)

installation of a small garden of living musical plants, as well as Martin Messier’s “Sewing Machine Orchestra” and

Matthew Matthew’s piano installation “On a Human Scale.” Other installations include Candy

Chang’s “Confessions,” which invites visitors to write and submit a confession in a confession booth; and NONOTAK Studio’s “Hoshi,” a depiction of infinite space that uses light, mirrors and sound; among others. “The artists are from around the world, including South Korea, France, New York City, Los Angeles. It’s a very wide range,” Shin said, adding: “We meet artists in a number of different ways. Some of the artwork, like ‘Hoshi’ by duo NONOTAK, we showed another one of their works called ‘Daydream’ in the last show, and we’ve expanded partnerships with them.” As for “Confessions,” Shin said they’ve received “several thousand” confessions since “Elsewhere” opened last month. Shin said they’ve also started planning the next show. “The theme for the next show is going to be on the shared experience that we all have or what connects us as people. The planning for that show is underway,” he said.

see ELSEWHERE page 44

Canal Convergence champions sustainability BY KRISTINE CANNON Progress Staff Writer

he team behind Canal Convergence – the annual, free, 10-day event at the Scottsdale Waterfront in southern Scottsdale – is aiming for a more sustainable waste-free event. Last year, Scottsdale Public Art, in partnership with Scottsdale Solid Waste and local businesses, diverted 88 percent of non-hazardous waste materials through recycling and composting efforts. This year, they’re hoping to achieve a 95 percent zero-waste event. “We really shifted gears with the Solid Waste department from the city of Scottsdale to require a lot more of our food vendors to convert all of their materials to compostable materials,” said Gina Azima, Scottsdale Public Art Operations Manager. “All food vendors are required to only

have compostable items,” Azima emphasized, adding that this is the first year Canal Convergence set this requirement in place. Surrounding business will also work with Solid Waste to get any food waste collected and contributed to Scottsdale Arts’ composting efforts. New to Canal Convergence is the Choose Tap! water trailer used at the Scottsdale Arts Festival in March – an appropriate move considering this year’s theme is “The Story of Water.” At the water trailer, Canal Convergence attendees can refill their respective water bottles versus purchasing new bottles. Scottsdale reported the trailer dispersed 3,018 gallons of water at the Scottsdale Arts Festival this year. That’s the equivalent of more than 19,300 one-

see CANAL page 44

This year’s Canal Convergence will feature 14 large-scale, interactive artworks including “HeartHug” by Izobrulo Polylight. “HeartHug” utilizes artificial intelligence to sense hugs. (Aram Boghosian/Special to the Progress)

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SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

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ELSEWHERE �� page 42

A team of about 50 people work together to not only brainstorm and realize each show but also make art more accessible to a wider demographic of people. “We, collectively, as a team are trying to inform our next ideas for how we could make this bridge between artists and visitors a little bit wider, a little bit stronger, a little bit more welcoming — make it serve both sides a little bit better every day,” Shin said. “There’s so much to learn.” Shin said Wonderspaces Arizona surveyed visitors who attended its first show “Point of View,” which opened to the public on April 5. According to the survey, 44 percent had

CANAL �� page 42

time-use bottles. “It’s on loan for us for the full 10 days,” Azima said. “We’re trying to drive down our water bottle sales and encourage people to bring their own water bottle and refill at that station.” Solid Waste department launches a new pilot program at this year’s Canal Convergence, as well. Fox Restaurant Concepts’ Olive & Ivy is the only restaurant taking part in the pilot program. Solid Waste will analyze its waste stream during the event and following Canal Convergence, give those results to Olive & Ivy to help them shift their business practices. “I went to Solid Waste about nine months ago, post-event, and I had this idea that I thought it would be really great if we could get all of the businesses within a one-mile radius of the Waterfront – it was a bit lofty – to convert their materials, but also help us achieve that 95 percent,” Azima recalled. Solid Waste started with one business instead. “They actually reached out to Olive & Ivy as the pilot business within that area to see what they can do to convert their materials, look at how they do day-to-day practices, collect food waste to put it towards composting efforts, recycle glass, things like that,” Azima said. According to Azima, the long-term goal is to get all businesses converted. “The trajectory of that pilot is that we can actually convert what they’re doing and then actually get the commercial businesses involved in what they’ve created. That’s what Solid Waste is looking to do,” she said. Canal Convergence will feature creative programming and entertainment for people of all ages. The 14 large-scale, interactive artworks

SCOTTSDALE PROGRESS | WWW.SCOTTSDALE.ORG | NOVEMBER 3, 2019

never attended an art show before. “What we’re trying to do is to not ask the question of, ‘Are you an art person who goes to art shows?’ and then cater to folks who say ‘yes’ to that. But rather, build a show where everyone just wants to experience creativity with people who are important to them in their lives and make that as easy and accessible and as convenient as a trip to the movies,” Shin said. Scottsdale is Wonderspaces’ first permanent locations; prior, Wonderspaces hosted successful pop-up art shows in cities like San Diego. The next two permanent Wonderspaces will be located in Philadelphia and Austin. “The lessons we’re learning here in Arizona we’re trying to incorporate into plans

for future shows. We’re also going to apply them to venues we’re opening up in Philadelphia and in Austin,” Shin said. Shin added that “Elsewhere” is the first time Wonderspaces has hosted back-toback shows. “Less than four weeks after we closed the last one [‘Point of View’], we opened the next one up [‘Elsewhere’]. We’ve learned and seen very clearly that the heart of everything that we do – facilitating a welcoming experience, doing right by the artists, learning about how to go through those things better – is driven by the team that is operating the show,” Shin said. “Elsewhere” runs through March 2020.

“Light Orchestra” by ATOMIC3 and Ottomatta is an interactive light and sound installation that lets Canal Convergence visitors become conductors. (ATOMIC3/Special to the Progress)

found throughout Canal Convergence include the fire-spurting “Water Serpent” by Scottsdale-based artist group Walter Productions, “Standing Wave” by UK-based artist studio Squidsoup, “Light Orchestra” by ATOMIC3, Ottomata, and Jean-Sebastien Côté, and “HeartHug” by Russia-based Izobrulo Polylight, among others. “The artists selected will present artworks that engage, encourage interaction, intrigue, and educate viewers about water, public art, and light,” said Kim Boganey, Scottsdale Public Art director. Also referencing the theme of “The Story of Water” at the event are creative workshops and activities, including hands-on art projects and free artist talks, and educational tours hosted by Scottsdale Arts Learning & Innovation. More specifically, the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy’s workshop will teach about the Sonoran Desert watershed as participants create their own 3-D watercolor art

and magnets. As part of Paris-based artist Antonin Fourneau’s workshop, Fourneau will teach participants how to make stamps they can use on his large-scale “Waterlight Graffiti” installation. Scottsdale Water will teach attendees about artistic container gardening and water conservation in two workshops. Other workshops include a coloring workshop led by artists The Continuum, a microscopic organisms workshop led by Colorado-based artist Nicole A. Banowetz, two craft workshops led by Scottsdale Artists’ School, and a gyotaku workshop led by Tempe-based artist Amanda McGlothern. Arcosanti and the Cosanti Foundation, Eli Richard, Toy Studio, Eric Buchner, and Paradise Valley School District will also lead workshops. “Attendees of Canal Convergence will be treated to a number of unique and excit-

If You Go “Elsewhere” at Wonderspaces When: Through March 2020 Where: 7014 E. Camelback Road, located in the Scottsdale Fashion Square food court under the escalators Tickets: Adults $24, students/seniors/military $20, children (3-12) $15, children under 3 free Website: arizona.wonderspaces. com

ing workshops delivered by local, national, and international artists,” said Natalie Marsh, Scottsdale Arts Learning & Innovation director. “From printmaking to technology, these workshops not only engage visitors in the themes of the event but also involve them in the artistic practice used by the artists.” Additionally, Local Light will return for its second year to Canal Convergence. Local Light places temporary, lightbased public art installations created by local artists in or around businesses in Old Town Scottsdale – along Marshall Way, 5th Avenue and Stetson Avenue, as well as inside Scottsdale Fashion Square. Tempe-based Eli Richard’s “Sun Lanterns” will also return to Local Light at 3rd Avenue and Marshall Way. Also new to Canal Convergence is Light Up the Night, a closing celebration held in the event’s VIP Lounge on Nov. 16 at 6 p.m. Light Up the Night, which offers attendees the opportunity to mix and mingle with artists, indulge in food and drink, and experience exclusive, one-night-only installations, is intended to raise money for next year’s Canal Convergence. Tickets are $50 each and includes valet parking and a cocktail and champagne toast with Scottsdale Arts President and CEO Dr. Gerd Wuetemann. Canal Convergence is the winner of the 2019 Gold Grand Pinnacle Award from the International Festival & Events Association. The Pinnacle Awards recognize the best festivals and events around the world. “For Canal Convergence to win the highest award given by the IFEA – the Gold Grand Pinnacle Award – is extraordinary, knowing the high caliber of competition internationally,” said Karen Churchard, director of Tourism & Events for the city of Scottsdale. Canal Convergence runs Nov. 8-17. Information: canalconvergence.com.

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