Local dance instructor Kimberly Lewis’ 17th annual “Ahwatukee Nutcracker Ballet” will be presented next month. During a recent dress rehearsal, Avery Katherine dances as the Butterfly Queen (above) while Bella Gregg pirouettes(far right). Pictured below are Sara Allen as Clara and Lakin Kell as Fritz. To the immediate right, Jordan Torgerson strikes a pose while below are eight pairs of sisters who will be dancing. In the right corner, Erika Braun sports one of Lewis’ many hand-made tutus. Page 6.
Photos by Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer
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Summit School students write about their thankfulness
Editor’s Note: When the AFN asked Summit School of Ahwatukee if it would like to cooperate in having some students writing their thoughts about Thanksgiving, fifth-sixth grade language and arts teacher Kelly Makay jumped at the opportunity.
A teacher since 1994 and a Summit School of Ahwatukee faculty member since 2007, Makay also taught for a time in Kyrene School District.
“I want my students to feel inspired to write, so I create a menu of choices, allowing them to select the written form they feel best expresses their thoughts and ideas,” she said.
The students were told they could use any format, from poems to essays.
“My students embraced this project, and, as is typical for them, the results are genuine, insightful and articulate expressions of their ideas. I am thankful to teach in a joyful school environment that allows me to use my creativity with engaged students.”
I am thankful I am American
By Roan S. Martinez
On my morning car rides to school, I see a lot of poverty on the streets and this makes me feel fortunate enough that I live a good life. There are so many things in the world that kids and adults should be thankful for. Some things I am thankful for are that I am an American, my school and sports, and lastly my health.
AFN NEWS STAFF
( Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer)
Fifth grade teacher Kelly MaKay works with Trevor Vaughn, who is writing a thankfulness essay as Marissa France looks on.
BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services
If you’re expecting a Christmas gift from an Arizonan this year, you might want to hope it’s coming from someone in Gilbert and not Tucson.
It’s not that Tucsonans are bad people. But the financial advice web site WalletHub.com figures that, given their finances, they should be spending less on presents this year than people elsewhere in the Arizona cities it studied.
How different? A lot.
WalletHub.com starts with the median monthly income for Gilbert residents at $7,170.
It factors in age, debt-to-income ratios and monthly expenses. Then it considers how much the typical household has in savings than to its expenses.
After running that through its “proprietary algorithm,’’ WalletHub sets the holiday spending budget at
an average of $1,118 on gifts this year. That’s good enough to rank Gilbert No. 61 nationwide.
Tucson? Not so much. Figuring in monthly income of $3,180 and everything else, WalletHub puts the holiday budget at $381 That’s 518 out of the 570 cities studied.
>> See BUDGET on page 11
& S.
BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributing Writer
The traditional meets the new in the 17th annual Ahwatukee Foothills Nutcracker Ballet next month.
Under the direction of Dance Studio 111 owner Kimberly Lewis, the one evening and two matinee performances on Dec. 17 and 18 still feature the favorite dances and beloved storyline but are accentuated this year by many new costumes and choreography.
Among the new costumes this year is an addition to the usual court of eight Queens: the Queen of Sweets as danced and played by Anna Alber, 14. Her role, besides dancing, is overseeing the tiny Bon Bons who emerge from Mrs. Gingers’ dress.
Nutcracker melds tradition with new costumes, effects
The Desert Vista High School freshman will wear a newly designed “sweets tutu” with a candy-cane striped bodice and white tutu skirt festooned with red, white and green lollypops.
In addition, four other cast Queens sport new tutus designed by Lewis. Each is handsewn and took eight to 12 weeks to complete.
“Once they arrive, I personally hand-glue each rhinestone on, and some of the tutus have 2,000 rhinestones,” said Lewis.
“The dancers know they have a tutu that has been ‘rhinestoned’ by Miss Kimberly because I always put a rhinestone heart on the inside of the tutu over the heart of the dancer,“ wrote Lewis in her Oct. 29 entry of The Nut Life blog.
The Snow Queen, Arabian Queen and Butterfly Queen wear new professional tutus this year, as do the Snow Princesses, the core dancers of the Waltz of the Flowers dancers, the Spanish Dancers and the Dew Drops.
Also added this year are new Victorian dresses worn by the March Girls in the party scene. Each dress is designed and handsewn by DeAnn Nevision, whose daughter Ashley dances in the “Nutcracker” and whose husband Jon plays the role of Clara’s father while also serving as prop and set designer.
New dancers mean new dance arrangements and “Nutcracker” choreographer Jill Hammond has provided some.
“Actually, we try and make little changes every year,” said Hammond, who has been head choreographer for all of the Ahwatukee Foothills Ballet Nutcracker’s 17 years. She credits her family and husband Paul for their support.
“We have so many talented dancers that we can make the choreography a little more advanced as we go from year to year,” she said. “Some of the dancers,
like Bella and Olivia Gregg, I’ve worked with for many years. They were just mice when we first worked together 10 years ago.”
Bella Gregg, 14, is this year’s Sugarplum Fairy and sister Olivia, 16, is the Marzipan Queen this year.
Hammond also works with fellow choreographer Meghan Arena, whose 4-year-old daughter Leni is dancing in her third “Nutcracker.”
With the new costumes and dances comes the usual hard work, said Hammond. Ballerinas often practice the production 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. every weekend for four months.
This year, Lewis is keeping fans apprised of the goings-on with her Nut Life blog at NutcrackerLife.com.
“I hope to make this a TV series next year,” said Lewis excitedly. “There’s so much that goes into the ‘Nutcracker’ production that I think people would really enjoy seeing the entire process on TV, and we need a dance show that’s positive.”
Positive and family-friendly mean
(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer) Sara Allen plays Clara in “Nutcracker.”
a great deal to Lewis as annually she updates the stage settings and costumes to continually fascinate the audience, which continues to grow annually as word circulates about the performances in the Desert Vista High’s Fine Arts Theatre.
Another tradition appears to be the sellout of the Saturday and Sunday afternoon matinees, with one of the reasons being the festive postproduction festivities.
“Following both 2 p.m. performances, Clara takes the stage and leads the audience in singing ‘Jingle Bells’ as Santa arrives on the stage in his sleigh,” said Lewis. “Snow falls inside the theatre, the live Christmas tree grows to the ceiling and Angels dance on clouds. All the cast members come out in costume to sign autographs and pose with theatre goers for photos.
“This is a great opportunity for the audience members to meet all the Queens, the Nutcracker and the Mouse King. We also invite them to sit on Clara’s throne with Clara in the land of Sweets for more photographs. It’s a magical family post-production tradition.”
As holiday music plays, audience members are also encouraged to come onstage for photos with Santa.
Tickets are available at Lewis’ Dance Studio 111 at 4910 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee, or at 480-706-6040. Tickets are sold at the Desert Vista High Theater box office one hour prior to each show, but traditionally the matinee performances are sold out weeks in advance.
“The ‘Nutcracker’ production is our gift to our community and their friends and family. It truly is a magical experience for all ages, and our dancers and stage crew and their parents work so hard to make it a memorable holiday treat,” said Lewis. Information: afnutcracker.com
(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer) Megan Schmidt rehearses as a dewdrop
THANKFUL
from page 3
oors and carpet 6 months ago, plantation shutters, classy closets. Newer Trane A/C, custom wall unit in family room!Pool has water cooling A?C!.Sec Sys doesn’t convey.Gated Comm. Steps from MPR comm pool. Seller will convert
I am thankful for the Army, the Air Force and the Navy because they risk their lives to protect our country, our rights, and our freedom. And speaking of freedom, I am thankful for American’s freedom because without freedom, I couldn’t speak my mind and we couldn’t vote for a new president. Think about having a bad president for the rest of your life.
living, then I could not have a good time with my friends, family and my brother. I wouldn’t be able to taste the sweet taste of candy.
I am thankful for my good school because at another school I would not have friends and there might be really mean bullies. I’m thankful for my friends because I can chat and laugh with them. Also I am thankful for my house because if I did not have a house I would have to live on the streets! I am thankful for my food and money because without those things I would starve to death.
Another thing I am thankful for is that I get to play club soccer. By doing that it gives me good foot work and strong stamina. Many kids can’t play club soccer because they don’t have enough money to sign up and buy everything they need to play .
That is why I am thankful to play club soccer. I am also thankful for the great teachers at Summit School like Mrs. Makay, because she isn’t mean and if we want to say something, she lets us say it.
One of the last things I am thankful for is my health. I am thankful for my clean water because if lead was in my water, I would get super sick. The last thing I am thankful for is that I have the right equipment to stay fit. Without my equipment, I wouldn’t be able to do half the stuff I do now.
I am thankful for that I am an American and I live in the USA, my school and clubs and my health. You should be thankful too. Have a terrific Thanksgiving!
I am thankful 10 times over By
Dominic E. Milazzo
I am thankful 10 times over! I am thankful to be living because if I was not
I am glad my parents are nice to me because otherwise they would have told me to, “Get out of the house!” by now. I am also glad. that I can go on vacations, hike and see the rest of the world. I am glad I live in a free country because if otherwise, I could go to jail for lying or something crazy like that. I am happy to live in the 21st century because we have iphones, ipads and wide screen TVs. I like having holidays like Christmas and Halloween because if there were no holidays, everything would be boring and dull.
I am a very thankful American girl
By Marissa France
I am thankful for Pumpkin pie and things that fly. Freedom of speech and things to eat, Apples green so very clean. Yellow corn so sweet.
I am thankful for Basketball and my teammates, The
(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer)
Layla Massoud writes an essay about thankfulness at Summit School of Ahwatukee.
court and my coaches, the sound of the whistle blowing, to let us know where we are going.
I am thankful for Frogs and dogs and beautiful songs, streams and dreams, and the U.S.A.
I am a very lucky girl who has an amazing family, with hands to hold and friends so close.
I know that I am loved.
I am a very thankful American girl.
I am a thankful pencil because...
By Brynn Pickavance
Draw, scribble, and write! All day, I sit in the supply bucket waiting for someone to grab me. I love to look at the smile on every student’s face. They pour into Mrs. Makay’s classroom one by one.
But I’m thankful for so much more than that. I’m thankful for erasing something because I know I’m helping students learn. I’m for the thankful for the ability to draw, write, and even be squeezed in someone’s hand. I’m thankful for the stories I helped write, and my, happy life at Summit.
planet, friends, family, young, old,
Who protect me from things like a bandit. Trustworthy, helpful, kind, They are the best people here, Especially when they don’t mind.
I am thankful for my voice, strong and clear. I am thankful for acting, which is easy and near, And, of course, the people I hold dear.
Thankful for clouds
By Piper Fazio
I am thankful for clouds.
Clouds with shape, clouds without. Clouds let you imagine.
Imagine something a cloud can be, like a dragon, with blazing fire.
When clouds don’t have shape, they look like cotton you want to take. Clouds look smooth as silk.
In the day, white as a kitten’s milk.
Clouds look purple, clouds look pink. At sunrise and sunset, like colorful ink.
Clouds, clouds, Beautiful and pure.
This is why, I’m thankful for clouds.
Thankful for a Carribean trip
By Dylan Suzuki
I’m lucky to be a pencil at this school.
Grateful to be able to sing
By Layla Massoud
Thank you for all my voice can sing! Singing about your land and my land, or about the queen and king, Or just the warm-ups,
Do Re Mi.
You can sing about hate, but best of all,
Your love for you and me.
Thank you for acting and the spotlight, any type of play.
In daylight or night-light, and, of course, the costumes. With props and scripts, On a big set stage,
Or on a screen with clips.
Thank you for the nice people on this
My family and I were lucky to go on vacation to Puta Cana in the Dominican Republic. This trip was during hurricane Mathew, but still it was a great time. One of my favorite times was when we were going on a razor ride. A razor is like a mini ca r with heavy duty tires. There are no windows, but on the front there is. Razors are very good on dirt, too.
On the bus ride to the razor field, I saw some really poor houses, and I was thankful for in a nice house and a roof over my head. When we got to are destination my family and I jumped in the muddy razor. While we were driving through the mud going to the ocean we saw some local kids carrying buckets all dirty without any parents. It made me think how thankful I have parents taking care of me every day. I also thought WOW! I’m having a fun ride, and the kids have to walk through the mud. My family and I had a great
The Foothills
(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer)
Sanya Somani writes an essay about thankfulness.
trip in this beautiful place. We explored caves and jumped in a huge ocean.
This trip was one of my favorite memories, but also helped me realize how thankful I am. In the end, almost everyone in Puta Cana was nice. No matter where you live, you should a lways be thankful!
Another ‘thankful pencil’
By Sonya Somani SCRIBBLE! SCRIBBLE!
Foothills Gateway
Ahwatukee Retirement
LISTED FOR $189,500
Upgraded
Finesterra at Valencia
LISTED
The 5B students in Mrs. Makay’s classroom are holding me with their warm and soft hands. They put down all their thoughts on paper with my help. They write wonderful stories using me!
I am the most thankful pencil in the entire Summit community. I get squeezed when I’m used, but still love all the students in this amazing 5B classroom. I am so thankful that get to be in this room with such kind and smart kids with an amazing teacher as a bonus!
Furthermore, I am thankful for food on the table, so I don’t painfully starve to death or go to bed knowing I might not have another meal. There are thousands of children sitting on the street without food for days on end. I am lucky that I have food every night.
In conclusion, I am thankful for the US Armed Forces, slithering snakes and brownies. They are all very important in my life.
This feeling makes me one happy pencil! Soon will become a short little stub, but will know that all the funny students used me with love because this amazing group of artists have such strong friendships. I am the luckiest pencil in the world.
Brownies, lizards and soldiers
By Trevor Vaughn
The U.S. Armed Forces, slithering snakes and brownies ... What do all these things have in common? These are things I am thankful for. What are you thankful for?
I am thankful for the military because they protect the United States of America and all of its citizens. They fight wars and battles to make sure no one dies. They also protect people from terrorist attacks and evacuate everyone safely.
In addition, I am thankful for reptile conventions where I get to see all kinds of astonishing reptiles like snakes, turtles, geckos and lizards. I love snakes because they fascinate me in how they move without limbs, their scale patterns and how they eat mice whole. I have three snakes. Their names are Squeezer, Spike and Slither. I love them all very much. That is why I am so interested in snakes.
I am very thankful for all I have by Niko Bricka
I’m an 11-year-old kid and I feel so lucky for sports, a place to live, a place to go to school, the right to vote, freedom and freedom of speech.
I’m so thankful for sports like baseball and basketball. I think these sports are fun because they are active sports and you get to run. I’m also thankful that I can afford these sports and I feel everyone should be able to do sports.
I’m thankful for a place to live and a place to go to a wonderful school like summit school. I’m so thankful for a place to live because shelter protects you from the rain and weather. I’m a lso thankful for Summit School because I can get a good education and grow up smart.
I’m thankful for the freedom of speech, the right to vote, and freedom in genera l. I’m so thankful for the freedom of speech because I can say whatever I need to say without punishment. I’m so thankful for the right to vote because you can have a voice in what this country does. I’m so thankful for freedom in genera l because you can live in peace and harmony
As you can see I am a very lucky kid. I’m proud to have my freedom of speech. I am very thankful for all that I have.
(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer) Dominic Milazzo writes an essay about thankfulness.
BUDGET
from page 5
That’s worse, but not that much worse, than Phoenix, where WalletHub says the holiday gift budget should be $443.
Other Arizona communities studied fall somewhere in between.
Based on all the factors, WalletHub figures Chandler residents should be spending $854, followed by Scottsdale at $841. Goodyear logs in at $805 for gifts, with Peoria at $756, Surprise at $747 and $691 for San Tan Valley.
Then there’s a big gap until you get to Avondale with an anticipated holiday budget of $572. Tempe weighs in at $536 and $530 for Flagstaff.
Mesa logs in at $512, then $443 for Yuma, and finally Tucson holding up the bottom.
One thing that did become clear is that Arizonans should be spending less this Christmas than they did a year ago.
In some cases, the differences are small. The budget for a typical Yuma household has dropped by only a dollar since 2015. And Gilbert spending is down by $48.
But there’s a drop of almost a third in the budget for seasonal spending by Chandler residents. And it’s down by
even more than that in Tucson.
WalletHub spokeswoman Jill Gonzalez said it’s not that her organization can actually predict that people will spend less. But she said that the statistics show that’s what they should be doing.
“The drop is mostly attributed to the increase of the debt-to-income ratio,’’ Gonzalez said.
Consider: In 2015 that ratio for Tucson was 33.4 percent. It now is 53.5 percent.
“Residents are racking up debt faster than they can pay it off,’’ she said, making a lower holiday budget a better choice.
Got relatives outside the Grand Canyon State?
You might be interested to know that all that Silicon Valley money puts Palo Alto at the top of the holiday budget list at $2,821. Sunnyvale, just up the road, is No. 4.
The Houston suburbs of League City, Sugar Land, Pearland and Missouri City, Texas show up in the No. 2, 3, 5 and 6 slots in the WalletHub rankings.
And there are far worse places to have relatives if you’re looking for Christmas gifts, with Brockton and Springfield, Massachusetts holding down the bottom of the list.
Esperanza Lutheran to host “Advent musical” with strong message
AFN NEWS STAFF
David Kruse Coste doesn’t call the presentation of his musical, “The Dogs Must Be Crazy,” a Christmas production.
“I like to consider this more of an Advent musical than Christmas,” said Coste, referring to the four weeks that precede Christmas.
And even though he started writing “Dogs” as an allegory for John the Baptist, “it does not have overly Christian themes,” he added.
Esperanza Lutheran Church.
The musical, which Coste is directing with Kathy Tuszinski, the church’s family ministries coordinator, will bring a strong Ahwatukee-centric cast to the stage at 7 p.m. Dec. 9 and 10 and 3 p.m. Dec. 11 at Esperanza Lutheran, 2601 E. Thunderhill Place, Ahwatukee.
“It’s a production accessible to anyone, with a strong message to continue to try to get along with people, even if it’s hard,” said the 15-year veteran congregant of
In the musical, the lead dog, Jackie, tells the other dogs to clean up the stable, then “clean up inside” by making peace with their longtime rivals, the Jericho Cats. But the Jericho Cats are suspicious of the invite from the arch-enemies, the Bethlehem Dogs. “It is a very fun, family-friendly script
19
We looked around every school before our eldest started kindergarten. Once my husband and I visited Keystone Montessori, we stopped looking. We have now been a part of the school for six years. Our children, ages 10, 8 and 2 love the school. The teachers’ commitment to our kids’ development, happiness and success and the freedom to choose and follow their own passion, are some of the many reasons of why we love Keystone. It takes a village to raise a child, and Keystone is the living example of a community working together for the future of each child.
- Parent
(Special to AFN)
The cast at Esperanza Lutheran Church prepares for a production several years ago.
Toddler • Primary • Elementary • Adolescent
Black Friday tradition in Ahwatukee: Santa in a chopper
Millie’s Hallmark and Ahwatukee Plaza are hosting the annual “Santa’s Back” event, a local tradition, on Black Friday tomorrow.
Santa will arrive by helicopter, followed by an array of holiday activities for families.
Visitors also can grab a bite to eat in the Plaza’s new restaurant, Fresko Mediterranean Kitchen.
For 27 years, Millie’s Hallmark has hosted the Santa’s Back event. Parents who attended this event when they were young now return with their own children.
Holiday activities at the Plaza include: magic elves, face painting, balloon sculpting, Goode Time (Dickensstyle) carolers, balloon artist clown, appearances by Disney’s Cinderella and Princess Elena of Avalor plus Batman and a Point Dance performance.
There also will be free popcorn, cotton candy and churros and a holiday bounce house for the children.
“The whole idea is to provide families with something fun to do on Black Friday that will provide holiday memories for years to come,” said Don Crabtree, owner of Millie’s Hallmark.
“The arrival of Santa via helicopter is always a high point of the Black Friday holiday kick-off event.”
Families can pose for complimentary photos with Santa after his arrival from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is free. Santa Claus will arrive via helicopter at about 11 a.m.
Ahwatukee Plaza is located on the southwest corner of Elliot Road and 51st Avenue. It draws an estimated 33,000 vehicles per day.
Tenants include Gold’s Gym, Millie’s Hallmark, O’ Reilly Auto Parts, Café Boa, Sakana Sushi Bar Teppan, Acacia Salon and Ahwatukee Children’s Theatre.
Fresko Mediterranean Kitchen was opened earlier this month by owner Kody Harris, formerly the executive chef of Thirsty Lion Pub & Grill.
She said her restaurant is a tribute to her Greek heritage. The menu includes
family recipes passed down over the years
“Our motto is good food doesn’t have to taste bad,” Harris said.
“The concentration of fresh vegetables, fruits, grain & nuts along generous amounts of olive oil help reduce heart disease, diabetes, various cancers, Alzheimer’s and many other health aliments.”
(AFN file photo)
Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive Friday at Ahwatukee Plaza via helicopter, just has they have been for many years in this local Christmas tradition.
Christmas lights company prepares Ahwatukee, county for holidays
BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributing Writer
You might not recognize its name, but doubtless you’ve appreciated Christmas Light Decorators for brightening the holidays in Ahwatukee and surrounding communities.
The Mesa-based, family-owned Christmas Light Decorators (CLD) is the company behind area holiday displays.
They include the mile-long Festival of Lights in Ahwatukee, the A.J. Chandler Park, Chandler’s Arizona Avenue, Mesa’s Riverview Palms, Scottsdale Quarter and the Kierland Common and—possibly best known of all—Glendale Glitters.
Glendale was the first municipality decorated by the company, which is owned by longtime Mesa resident Doug Topham.
Business burgeoned from there. The company now does more than 360 projects from Flagstaff to Yuma.
Add in private home decorations throughout the Southeast Valley and you have a sparkling holiday landscape—and a very busy season for CLD.
For Christmas Light Decorators, the holiday season begins earlier every year. This year it started in July as crews and cherry pickers spread out across the state to wrap lights around ocotillos, Palo
Verde and assorted deciduous trees, and towering saguaros.
The miles of strings of colored and white lights are mostly LED now, cutting electricity costs dramatically for his clients.
Topham’s work extends beyond Maricopa County with Prescott, “Arizona’s Christmas City,” one of the most iconic. There, 100 of the 173 towering elms surrounding the Yavapai County Courthouse are wrapped in various colors.
Glendale Glitters is the first of the civic holiday displays to be started. Topham said the installation of the approximate 1.2 million lights begins in August and continues for about 14 weeks.
Christmas Light Decorator’s 10,000-square-foot warehouse is the source of its holiday magic, with nearly 10 million lights and boxes of carefully organized decorations lining hundreds of shelves.
There’s also other holiday décor, such as massive wreaths. Among them are the three 30-foot, one-ton, steelframed colossal circlets hung annually at Scottsdale Quarter.
With all the work and details of decorating the state for the holidays, it would be understandable if Topham
(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer)
Cherry pickers are essential tools of the trade for Christmas Light Decorators as they get Chandler Boulevard ready for the annual Festival of Lights.
LIGHTS
became Grinch-like, but that’s not the case.
“I love the holidays and the spirit of the holidays,” he said. “It’s a fun, magical time, especially for children, and I enjoy seeing the faces of everyone when the lights are up and lit,” he said.
Topham said he, wife Marci and their six children, two of them college-age, often drive to view many of the light displays during their own holiday time.
Ahwatukee’s Million White Light Holiday Display on Chandler Boulevard from 24th Street to Desert Foothills Parkway was trimmed by CLD in October.
Crews swarmed the median strip, cherry pickers in tow, wrapping towering saguaros and various trees so that all would be tested and ready to go when the lights were turned on at the annual Kick-Off Party on Saturday.
More than 600,000 energy-saving LED lights will twinkle throughout the
holidays from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day on 328 trees and cactuses in the seven median islands.
The area remains ablaze each evening through Jan. 1.
“We’ve been utilizing Christmas Lights Decorators to string the lights on the medians on Chandler Boulevard to create the Million White Lights display for nearly 18 years,” said FOL Board President Janyce Hazlett.
“Initially, a local homeowner worked the project with a crew, but the job became too large and we began to search for a company who specialized in such magnificent displays,” Hazlett added. “CLD came to us with a reference from Glendale Glitters and several other large installations and so began this long-term relationship.
Parade while riding their HarleyDavidson’s—praised CLD for “their level of knowledge and creativity.”
“Christmas Light Decorators bring a little added decor or upgrade in the
replacing any non-working lights on a daily basis during the season.
“Because of their attention to detail and knowledge of our surroundings and needs, we’ve remained with them,” she continued.
Hazlett—who with her husband, Bill, lead the annual Lighted Motorcycle
lights themselves, which are all LED now,” she said. “They work in a timely fashion, carefully testing the lights and
For years, the task of unwrapping the Chandler Boulevard lights from the cactuses and trees was done by local residents.
That’s no longer necessary, said Hazlett.
“Up until 2011, volunteers took the lights down; quite a daunting activity. Then CLD offered to take them down without increasing their costs,” said Hazlett, who has been a board member for 18 years and president for the past two.
CLD is no longer just about holiday decorations. The company decorates nearly 400 commercial properties annually, offering a full range of installation, design and product sales.
at 9:00am!
SANTA
(Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Staff Photographer)
Joel Wood of Christmas Light Decorators wraps one of the trees in the median of Chandler Boulevard with Christmas lights.
AFN Christmas Lights Contest in full gear
The Ahwatukee Foothills News’ Holiday Lights Contest is open to nominations for only six more days.
The contest is for all of the residents who go that extra mile and festoon their homes with the glitz and glitter of Christmas.
Have you noticed a neighbor’s elaborate decorations for the season? Have you been inspired by them—or more than a little irritated? Do you think yours are more tasteful?
You don’t even have to know the homeowner’s name. Just send in the address and whip out your smartphone to snap a photo just to give us an idea of what’s special about it.
Go ahead and write a note about why you nominated it. And, yes, you can nominate yourself as well. We do need your name, address and phone number as “official nominator” for any contenders you send along.
What makes for the best lighting display? We’ll be the judge of that. The
AFN will award prizes in a few different categories. (And we’ll figure out what those are after we look at the nominees.)
Just a few rules, because what’s a contest without rules? You don’t have to buy anything to enter or to have a better chance at winning.
The nominated home, business or edifice must be in Ahwatukee.
It must be a building the general public can view from the street in their car, a limo or on foot.
To enter, go to surveymonkey.com/r/ AFNLights and attach that smartphone image of the display. Please supply the exact address, since Siri has trouble with approximations.
If you’re really old school, then write us at Ahwatukee Holiday Lights, 1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway, Suite 219, Tempe, AZ 85282. Be sure to include your Polaroids. And don’t forget your contact information.
We’ll accept entries through Nov. 30. The following week or so, we’ll be judging, so winners won’t be announced until Dec. 14, maybe Dec. 7 if our staffers can cut loose from the South
Mountain Freeway, beleaguered golf courses and whatever else threatens to distract the community from its efforts to spread holiday cheer.
Then, we’ll share information about the best ones and even map them for you at ahwatukee.com.
(Special to AFN)
If you decorate your house as nice as this one, you could be a winner of the Ahwatukee Foothills News’ first Holiday Lights Contest. Get your nomination in by next week.
Forecast at Foothills Baptist Church:
AFN NEWS STAFF
Here is the Ahwatukee weather forecast for Dec. 10: snow. Lots of it.
Like 15 tons of it.
But don’t go out and get a shovel. But do get your kids and grandkids and plan to head down to Foothills Baptist Church, 15450 S. 21st St., Ahwatukee because all that snow will be in its parking lot and available for them to frolic 5-8 p.m.
The giant pile of what Easterners grudgingly call “the white stuff” is part of the church’s new holiday event, called “A Snowy Night in Ahwatukee.”
It’s replacing Foothills Baptist’s 10-year tradition of the Living Christmas Tree, a constructed riser made of wooden panels decorated with greenery and lights that would light up in sync with various musical and orchestral performances.
“Hopefully it will be fun for the kids, some of whom probably have never seen snow,” said Susan Burress, the organizer of the event that requires dozens of volunteers to pull off its many facets.
“We did the Living Christmas tree for 10 years and felt it was time to do something different so the community could have some fun,” Burress explained. “We just thought a snow pile would be a lot of fun. We did it for a vacation Bible school and the kids had a blast.”
They’ll have other blast-inducing attractions as well.
There will be a train, petting zoo, kids’ crafts, glitter tattoos, an outdoor showing of Christmas movie shorts, and even a balloon artist who will be going around and making artistic creations for children.
While Snowy Night might seem to be for kids only, Burress and her group also have a few things planned for adults as well.
For one thing, there’s the spectacle of it all.
“I’m also going to light up our whole campus with white light to coincide with the Festival of Lights because we’re right on that corner where it all starts down Chandler Boulevard,” Burress said. “So it’s going to be very festive with a very wonderful holiday spirit for the community.
Three gift baskets also will be raffled off and there will be two photo booths so
families can have a group picture taken.
Then there’s something for young and old alike: food.
While some food will be free, other items will be on sale. But Burress said they’ll be priced as cheap as possible. So far the vendors include What’s Poppin’ Kettle Corn, La Fiesta Street Tacos, Boca Salsa. The church also has lined up a snow cone machine to make edible snowballs.
“Everything is very low cost,” Burress said. “We’re trying to be low cost for families.”
The church will also sponsor a hot cocoa bar and give kids and adults the opportunity to make their own s’mores over fire pits.
And no Christmas celebration is complete without cookies.
Several dozen women form the church are baking up a storm. “We have a lot of good bakers and they love to do that,” Burress said.
Burress said she also has anticipated one problem: “Our parking lot will be completely taken over by Snowy Night in Ahwatukee.”
So she’s lined up 30 people to provide a free shuttle service from three Kyrene schools—Monte Vista, Altadena and Cerritos.
(AFN File Photo)
Foothills Baptist Church’s Living Christmas Tree, shown here in a 2014 photo, has been replaced with a community event called A Snowy Night in Ahwatukee.
Student’s custom caps helps brighten chemo patients’ days
BY KAYTLIN MARTINO AFN Contributing Writer
Arizona State University junior Ashleigh Smith holds philanthropic work close to her heart.
An interior design major, Smith has helped her sorority, Delta Gamma, raise $20,000 for Service for Sight, and works with Feed My Starving children.
But a project that began in high school has had a lasting impact.
In her freshman year at Basha High School in Chandler, Smith was approached by one of her teachers about a 10-year-old girl with cancer. The teacher knew that Smith had her own small business in middle school making hair bows and other accessories for her classmates. She hoped that Smith could
craft some bows for the girl to make her feel more comfortable with her chemotherapy.
Smith created a special hat for chemo patients called Chemo Caps.
Chemo Caps were designed to be customizable and specialized for each patient. Smith bought baseball-style caps and lined them with magnets so that the patient could personalize the hat with accessories.
Smith first started donating her Chemo Caps to patients at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. The caps became a huge hit and she continued donating the chemo caps throughout her four years of high school.
Starting her senior year of high school, Smith set a personal goal of donating 150 handmade caps to patients. Not
(Will Powers/AFN Staff Photographer)
Ashleigh Smith has been making hats for cancer patients since she was a young girl. She uses a magnetic connection for the live or cloth flowers to attach to the hat so that the person can change the decoration to fit their outfit or mood.
CAPS
from page 18
only did Smith achieve this goal, she got 100 Major League Baseball hats donated to accommodate boys battling cancer.
“Even in my busy college years, Chemo Caps have still remained a huge part of my life,” Smith said.
After learning that a fellow sorority sister was diagnosed with cancer, as well as a friend’s mother, Smith decided to get her hands on these caps once again.
“I can’t talk for every woman, but when my mom lost her hair, she felt very self-conscious out in public, said Kelsey King, a senior at ASU and one of Smith’s closest friends. “She hates the hole in the back of normal ball caps because they show her (hairless) head, and finding a hat without that ponytail hole is incredibly hard.”
“To have a cap that is custom-made for my Mom is amazing.”
Erica Davis, Smith’s English teacher for her freshman and senior year of high school, supported Smith through her high school years.
She backed the creation of Chemo Caps, saying, “Ashleigh was always a visible student for her academic and leadership qualities.”
DOGS
from page 11
that should appeal to a general audience,” said Coste, who has written two other musicals, “Dirk Danger and the Lady in White” and “Noelophobia.”
Coached by Ella Coste, the cast of 24 young actors, ranging in age from 6-16, all live in the community but fewer than half are members of Esperanza Lutheran.
Leads are Tatum Willis as the leader of the Bethlehem Dogs, Zachary Fielding as her second in command, Anni Wright as the leader of the Jericho Cats and Kami Bryson as Willy, the cunning leader of the local coyote pack.
The cast was assembled as a part of a general casting call last summer and has been rehearsing since August.
“The actors just met with the directing team, told us what kind of part they wanted, then we revised the script to allow for the right kind of part for the right kind of actor,” explained Coste, a music teacher at Veritas Preparatpry Academy.
“Custom writing the script to fit the company is a unique part of what we do, as is offering roles without auditioning for them. It can’t be done with canned “Disney Jr.” productions, as good as they
are, and I think the actors really like the opportunity.”
The once-a-week rehearsals have eased the burden that is imposed on a cast of most any production, he added.
“I’ve found that in other productions, an actor needs to give up an awful lot to be in it,” Coste said. “A weekly rehearsal time allows actors to follow other pursuits, or even better, have more time at home with the family.”
“We can probably have a better production if we have boot camps and rehearsals all week and all-day Saturday rehearsals, but we feel that it’s more valuable to sacrifice this quality for a more sensible balance of theater and
life,” he said, adding that he is not willing “to create a higher quality product at the expense of a family’s time together.”
Esperanza Lutheran Church is providing support for the production— including set construction, lighting, videography, costumes and hospitality—but Coste stressed it “is truly an Ahwatukee community-wide production.”
It is funded through an Indiegogo fundraise and ticket sales, but this year Coste has slashed the price to a $5 suggested donation.
Tickets can be purchased at thedogsmustbecracy.com
(Special to AFN)
“The Dogs Must be Crazy,” a musical with a strong message, will be playing at Esperanza Lutheran Church in Ahwatukee in a few weeks.
THURSDAY, DEC. 1
Medicare talks slated
Gregory J. Geryak of Next Step Advisors will discuss Medicare options, entitlements and rights and recent changes that will take effect next year for recipients.
Craft-palooza offered
Need some alone time for last minute holiday chores? Send dad and the kids to the library for crafts and oldschool cartoons.
DETAILS>> 1-4 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Free. Ages 6-11. No registration required.
DETAILS>> 4-5 p..m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Same time as well on Dec. 6. Both sessions are free. Information: 480-797-5615 or nsadvisor. com.
TUESDAY, DEC. 6
Writing resources discussed
Attention writers: author Anissa Stringer will discuss resources, apps, and software designed to help you write.
Ahwatukee financial advisor Joseph Ortiz, of the firm Edward Jones, will teach a continuing education class for certified public accountantsfocusing on a tax update for small and medium businesses and their owners.
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 28
Go beyond bracelet basics
Go beyond the basics of making bracelets and learn how to make more complicated friendship wrist jewelry. DETAILS>> 4:30-6:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Free. Teens ages 12-17. No registration required.
ONGOING
Congregation to see Israel
Congregation NefeshSoul is planning a tour of Israel June 10-20, 2017. Explore historical sites along with the beauty and rich culture of Israel.
DETAILS>> Rabbi Susan Schanerman at rabbi@ nefeshsoul.org.
MONDAYS
Cheatham, MSN, FNP-C
DETAILS>> 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Suite 1, 4902 E. Warner Road, Ahwatukee. Information: 480-753-7664.
SATURDAY, DEC. 10
Create ‘edible houses’
Open play for kids offered
Open Playday is held through Dec. 19 by the Kyrene Early Education Resource Center to help children explore and make sense of the world around them.
DETAILS>> 9-11 a.m. Kyrene de las Lomas, 11820 S. Warner-Elliot Loop, Ahwatukee. Register: kyrene.org/ earlyed.
Create a graham cracker house for the holidays! This event is free and all supplies will be provided. Event is open to teens 12-17.
DETAILS>> 2-3 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Free. Teens ages 12-17. No registration required.
Chamber offers networking
The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce networking and leads group is open to chamber members.
SUNDAY, DEC. 11
‘Nutcracker’ for Hogwarts
DETAILS>> Noon, Native Grill and Wings, 5030 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee. Devida Lewis, 480-753-7676.
Group aids MS sufferers
The magic of the season is let loose at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry as the library blends enchanting Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math activities with a holiday flair, and throws in a musical performance by the Mill Avenue Chamber Players to boot.
DETAILS>> 1-4 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Free. All ages.
This group addresses the informational, emotional and social support needs of the MS community. People with MS, care partners and spouses are welcome. The group mobilizes people and resources to drive research for a cure and to address the challenges people affected by MS.
Weaver, MPAS, PA-C
THURSDAY, DEC. 15
Put on pajamas for stories
Wear your pajamas to a special Story-time reading of “The Polar Express.” Enjoy cookies with your friends afterward.
DETAILS>> 6:30-7:15 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Children up to 5 years old. No registration required, but come early as space is limited.
SATURDAY, DEC. 17
‘Nutcracker’ showcased
Ahwatukee dance instructor Kimberly Lewis will present her 17th annual “Nutcracker” with Santa making a guest appearance after both afternoon shows.
DETAILS>> Tickets are on sale for 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 17 and 2 p.m. Dec. 18. All performances at Mountain Pointe High School’s Fine Arts Theatre. Tickets can be obtained at Dance Studio 111, 4910 Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee, at 480-706-6040, or by emailing afnutcracker@gmail.com. Tickets are $18 to $40 for assigned seating. Information: afnutcracker.com.
DETAILS>> 10 a.m.-noon, third Monday of each month, Dignity Health Urgent Care Ahwatukee, conference room, 4545 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. Information: Lynn Grant at lgrant3567@yahoo.com or 480-414-7172.
TUESDAYS
Toastmasters sharpen skills
Improve your speaking skills and meet interesting people at Ahwatukee Toastmasters meetings
DETAILS>> 6:45-8 a.m at the Dignity Health Community Room, 4545 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee.
Power Partners available
The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce networking and leads group is open to chamber members.
DETAILS>> 8-9 a.m., Four Points by Sheraton, 10831 S. 51st St., Ahwatukee. Devida Lewis, 480-753-7676.
WEDNESDAYS
Watercolor classes available
CALENDAR
from page 20
Watercolor classes that teach both bold and beautiful as well as soft and subtle approaches to the art are available twice a week for beginners and intermediate students who are at least 15 years old.
Step-by-step instruction and personal help are provided.
DETAILS>> 2:30-5 Wednesdays and 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays at Hobby Lobby, 46th Street and Ray Road, Ahwatukee. Cost: $25 per class, $80 for four classes. Registration required: jlokits@yahoo.com or 480-471-8505.
Montessori offers tours
Ahwatukee Foothills Montessori is holds an open house weekly. It includes a short talk about Montessori education, followed by a tour of its campus.
Hospice of the Valley offers a free ongoing grief support group for adults and is open to any adult who has experienced a loss through death. No registration required.
DETAILS>> 6-7 p.m. first and third Wednesdays, Pecos Community Center, 17010 S. 48th St. 602-636-5390 or HOV.org.
Foothills Women meet
An informal, relaxed social organization of about 90 women living in the Ahwatukee Foothills/Club West area. A way to escape once a month to have fun and meet with other ladies in the area. Guest speaker or entertainment featured.
DETAILS>> 7 p.m. second Wednesday of the month,
Foothills Golf Club, 2201 E. Clubhouse Drive. Contact jstowe2@cox.net or FoothillsWomensClub.org.
Parents can ‘drop in’
Parents are invited to join a drop-in group to ask questions, share ideas or just listen to what’s going on with today’s teenagers.
DETAILS>> 5:30-7 p.m. second Wednesday of each month. Maricopa Cooperative Extension, 4341 E. Broadway Road, Phoenix. Free. RSVP at 602-827-8200, ext. 348, or rcarter@cals.arizona.edu.
Get a doughnut, meet a Dem
Free and open to the public 7:30-9 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Biscuits Restaurant, 4623 E. Elliot Road. RSVP: marie9@q.com or 480-592-0052.
LD 18 Dems meet
The Legislative District 18 Democrats have changed their monthly meeting to their new campaign office at 1867 E. Baseline Road, Tempe.
DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m. social time, 7-8:30 p.m. meeting time on the second Monday of each month. Information: ld18demsinfo@gmail.com. Free and open to the public.
Special networking offered
Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce has a networking and leads group is open to chamber members.
This group focuses on creating powerful relationships with fellow members, resulting in meaningful referrals.
Learn how to create connections and get the most out of networking events.
DETAILS>> 8-9 a.m., Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite 140. Information: Shannon Kinsman, 480-753-7676.
Chamber offers leads
Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce networking and leads group offers business owners as chance to get involved and network. Open to chamber members and nonmembers.
DETAILS>> 8 a.m. Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite 140. Shannon Kinsman, 480-753-7676.
Mothers find support
Free child care for ages 0 to 5.
DETAILS>> 9 a.m. second and fourth Thursday, Foothills Baptist Church, 15450 S. 21st St. Call Kim at 480-759-2118, ext. 218.
FRIDAYS
Toastmasters teach skills
This chamber-exclusive Chapter of the International Toastmasters club boasts professional development skills. Become the speaker and leader you want to be with Ahwatukee Chamber Toastmasters Club.
DETAILS>> 8-9 a.m., First American Title Conference Room, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd., #100, Ahwatukee. Devida Lewis, 480-753-7676.
SATURDAYS
Alzheimer’s group meets
Caregivers for Alzheimer’s patients can find support monthly.
DETAILS>> 10-11:30 a.m. Ahwatukee Alzheimer’s Support Group meets the first Saturday of the month at Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St.
Bosom Buddies gather
Ahwatukee/Chandler nonprofit breast cancer support group.
DETAILS>> 10 a.m. to noon, second Saturday of the month. Morrison Boardroom next to Chandler Regional Medical Center, 1875 W. Frye Road, Chandler. Contact Patti Lynch at 480-893-8900 or tomklynch@msn.com or Cele Ludig at 480-330-4301.
— Email calendar items to pmaryniak@ahwatukees. com
— Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills News on Facebook and AhwatukeeFN on Twitter.
BIG EVENT COMING UP?
Don’t wait till the last minute to tell our readers about an upcoming public event. Contact pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com or 480-898-5647.
Gift Guide
www.ahwatukee.com
Here are some businesses to shop local in Ahwatukee for Christmas
If you are looking for gifts that will not only re ect holiday cheer, but also help your community, here is a list of independent local businesswomen who can ll the bill.
Ask them about special items, gift certi cates from those who provide a service and any special o ers they might have for the holidays.
What does this business do? “I sell and educate others on using essential oils to improve health and wellness, and remove toxins from their household.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “I believe in building a friendship and supporting my essential oil users. I provide mentoring, education, and training on how to use essentials oil effectively.”
ese businesses are owned by members of Tukee Sisters, a group started by jewelry-maker Heidi Winquist to help independent businesswomen in Ahwatukee.
What Ahwatukee residents will like:
“With all these services under one roof, we brainstorm to find the most comprehensive plan for each patient, we communicate about the patients progress and quickly decide to make changes if somebody fails to respond to care.”
MARY’S MARIANA
Owner: Mary Steagall
Contact info: marysmariana.com, marysmariana@ cox.net or 480-4272332.
Hours: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. to call, shop anytime.
Started: 2011. What does this business do? “I sell custom, hand-made Mariana Jewelry that is imported from Israel.”
ANGELA J. CHRISTOPHER, DC, ART, MUAC
Contact info: AZ Spine Disc and Sport, 4530 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee. 480-7591668, dracdc2005@hotmail.com.
Hours: 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Started: “We are going on 12 years now.” What does this business do? “AZSDS is a multi-specialty medical center. Our office offers services that include primary care, pain management, sports medicine, chiropractic, physical therapy, acupuncture, athletic training, massage therapy, personal training, weight loss and nutrition.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “The variety of items and the quality.”
Started: July 2013. What does this business do? “My business was created out of a necessity when my daughter was born. I was nursing her and never found a cover I liked. I decided to make my own out of a cute pink knit fabric. My mom sews and taught me the
Inc.
basics, and I taught myself how to make a perfect nursing cover that easily turns into a scarf afterwards. My shop was open for 1 month before I had customers asking me to create scarves for them that were not used for nursing, so I branched out to create scarves for women and children, along with my nursing covers. I specialize in fabric mixing, where I find two fabrics that you wouldn’t think would go well together, and create a truly one-of-a-kind piece.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “I love to be able to give the residents of Ahwatukee a new and fun accessory to wear in our cooler months.”
Hours: 24/7 online, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. for phone calls/texts.
Started: 2014.
What does this business do? “I’m an independent consultant for Jamberry Nails, providing nail polish alternatives, trendy DIY nail art, healthier nail polish and gel manicure solutions for women to use in their homes, on their own schedules; or take to their favorite salons for application
there. My ‘Mani Mixers’ give women the chance to get a few friends together to have fun, learn about the application, and play ‘dress up nails.’”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “The personal relationships and one-on-one service I provide, as well as the amazing products.”
Hours: Flexible, but typically 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday – Friday.
Started: July 2013
What does this business do? “I provide personalized vacation planning services for clients who want to make sure they are getting the right vacation, at the best price.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “I am local, have lived here for over 20 years, know and love this community, and treat each booking I make for a client as if it were my very own.”
K8’S PET CARE
Owner: Kate McPike
(Special to AFN) Cruises,
(Special to AFN)
K8's Pet Care
Contact info: k8spetcare@gmail.com or 480-718-5063
Hours: 7 am - 9 pm
Started: March 2016
What does this business do? Pet sitting What Ahwatukee residents will like: “My promise to potential clients is that I will treat their pets as if they were my own. And I do!”
What does this business do? “In the salon I offer hair services specializing in curly hair and color. I also run my anti-aging business, Nerium International, from home with holistic products for the face, body, and mind.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “If you’re in need of a new look or just need something to make you feel better about yourself stop in to see me. I make people feel and look fabulous from head to toe. I have fun doing hair but I am absolutely passionate about helping people feel better, look better, and live better.”
LIVING TOXIC FREE WITH SKY
Owner: Sky Goodwin
Contact info: toxinfree4us.com.
Hours: 24-7.
Started: 2016.
What does this business do? Aromatherapy.
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “How affordable and beneficial my products are.”
Hours: 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; assigned doulas available 24/7
Started: May 2015
What does this business do? “Phoenix Family Birth, LLC is the Valley’s first full-service doula agency. We are proud to offer labor doula teams, postpartum doula care (traditional and the exclusive Daddy Doula), lactation support, placenta encapsulation, and classes in childbirth education, breastfeeding, and newborn care.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “Having a compassionate professional by their sides during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Your doula is your nonjudgmental best friend and your unbiased expert.”
What does this business do? “We have complete Multi-Med Therapy solutions with comprehensive skincare regimens that use proven peptide technology to help defend against and reduce the visible signs of aging for noticeably firmer, smoother, flawless-looking skin. We have regimens and tools to use at home that can address many skin concerns. We focus on 4 major areas: anti-aging, acne/severe cystic acne as well as reducing the appearance of post acne marks, reduction of sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, and a focus on sensitive skin. It is like having spa treatments in your own home all with a 60-day, empty jar, money back guarantee.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like the most: “These products allow women and men to be able to take care of their skin at home without the high cost of doctors.”
CARPET CLEANING SPECIAL
Rodan + Fields
CRYPT ESCAPE ROOMS
Owner: Tammy and John Keating
Contact info: 4302 E. Ray Road, John@ breakthecrypt.com.
Hours: 6-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday, open for private parties during the week.
Started: 2016
What does this business do? “Fun and challenging escape rooms. Great for team building events, family fun, or to do with friends.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “It’s a great local destination for connecting to friends, family, and co-workers. Our
GIFT GUIDE
themed puzzle rooms offer a fun and challenging games.”
What does this business do? “High quality skin care and makeup products.” What Ahwatukee residents will like: “High quality makeup and skin care products that can be tailored to your individual needs.”
What does this business do? “This business is a workroom that designs and fabricates a variety of window treatments, indoor and outdoor draperies, roman shades, bedding, pillows, slipcovers, outdoor cushions for patio furniture, and a variety of accessories for the home. We offer in-home consultation and design advice and we bring with us a wide variety of fabrics and drapery hardware to match our clients’ style. We also offer shutters, blinds and motorization.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “The products are made in the workroom
that is located in a separate building next to my home. I invite my clients to visit the workroom, where I can show them a greater selection of fabrics and they can see the work in progress.”
What does this business do? “Sugar Fix Candy specializes in creating unique candy buffets, centerpieces, gift bags, party favors for event needs. We provide a unique designed table for events, paying close attention to detail, variety and service that will “wow” guests…We also create and deliver gift baskets or candy jars to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, etc.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like:
“Having a Candy Buffet Bar at a family gathering or a company event is very unique and a fun attraction to have at an event, plus they get to enjoy sweet or healthy treats. I offer 10 percent off for any Ahwatukee resident.”
What does the business do? “Specialize in families, seniors, wedding photography
What Ahwatukee residents will like:
“My work speaks for itself. I am happy and ecstatic to meet new people. I love color
(Special to AFN)
AZ Draperies and Pillows
and making my clients look great. I
BREAKING GROUNDS COLD BREWZ
Owner: Nicole Pont
Contact info: 48th Street and Elliott Road, info@bgcoldbrewz.com, bgcoldbrewz.com, 480-7883927.
Hours: 24/7.
Started: 2016
What does this business do? “Breaking Grounds Cold Brewz offers a selection of homemade all natural cold brew coffee and teas. We also have homemade creamers. We pride ourselves on using the best ingredients we can.”
What does this business do? “My business is that of handmade home decor items.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “I design wreaths and door hangers for all occasions, decorate picture frames, design centerpieces and candles from mason jars, create holiday decor.”
TUKEE’S TAMALES
Owner: Caprice & Eric Gouveia
special events. Started: 2015.
What does the business do? “We provide authentic, fresh Mexican cuisine.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “Authentically prepared Mexican cuisine at affordable prices. It’s available by pre-order every Friday. “Residents will not have to cook on Fridays. ..They will also love the fact that our menu changes on a weekly basis, giving them the opportunity to taste a variety of real Mexican cuisine.”
published medical journals.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “Ahwatukee will love how affordable it is to get over 30 fruits vegetables and berries into their families and insure they are getting the nutrition that they need every day.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “Ahwatukee residents love that we take care in making our products and use all natural ingredients. We also have delivery service
What does this business do? “Sells premium anti-aging skincare,fastest growing skincare brand in the U.S. for the past five years, acne skincare products were developed by the doctors who created ProActiv acne medication.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “I’m local.”
What does this business do? “We provide people with natural solutions, educate how to lower your toxic load and live a more natural lifestyle.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “We can help people with natural options for everyday situations. People are sick and tired of being sick and tired.”
JUICE PLUS
SUPA AVON
Owner: Tracey Church aka Supa Trace Contact info supa4165@gmail.com, 520261-9721.
What does this business do? “Juice plus is Whole Foods fruits, vegetables and berries in capsules or chewable form. It is meant to bridge the gap from how many servings of fruits and vegetables we get every day to how many servings we should get every day. We have a free children’s health study that allows children to get free chewables with an adult order. We also have a transformation program or a one simple change program. We offer plantbased protein powders, bars and aeroponic growing tower systems call the Tower Garden. Juice plus has over 36 peer reviewed
What does this business do? “Avon products: home living, makeup, skin care, bath and body, fragrance, jewelry, fashion (men and kids).”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “Customers can shop anytime at my online store, at their convenience. If my customers have any questions, they can contact anytime, via email or by phone. If they sign up for email notifications, they will receive all the specials.
BODY BY KB
Owner: Kelly Brown
Contact info: 3830 E. Lakewood Pkwy., 480-239-4467, bodybykbllc@gmail.com.
What does this business do? “Health and wellness.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “There’s at least one product for everyone.”
offers a wonderful variety of handmade custom home decor and personalized gifts for every occasion. Some of the customizable items available include wreaths, personalized tumblers, photo pallets, and wooden signs. We work directly with you to develop the perfect personalized gift for your special event, holiday, wedding, anniversary, baby shower, birthday, graduation, retirement, memorial, or teacher appreciation.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like:
quality of our swim lessons but also the relationship driven staff at Aqua-Tots. People know that we truly care about their family. When they are here they are welcomed and appreciated for trusting us with helping their children develop an important skill.”
SCRAPALICIOUS
Owner: Amber and Sheryl Shatswell Contact info: scrapaliciousllc@gmail.com www.scrapaliciousaz.etsy.com.
Started: 2014.
What does this business do? “Scrapalicious is a mom-and-daughter duo that
“The convenience of our services. Everyone wants to have their own quotes on signs to hang in their home or find that special unique gift to wow and we provide that for you. It is also easy to order online and have your items delivered to your door.”
PERFECTLY POSH
Owner: Sara Ellis (independent consultant)
Contact info: 480-540-2339, SaraE.po.sh.
Hours: 24/7.
Started: 2015.
What does this business do? “Posh offers naturally based pampering products, made with the finest ingredients. We are free of parabens, paraffins, sulfates, gluten or soy fillers. Each product lists each ingredient. Everything is made in the USA. Everything is $25 or less and most products are buy 5 get 1 free.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “How incredible the products are for the low prices.”
What does this business do? “I am an online health and fitness coach helping women reach goals to help with their fitness, health and overall wellbeing.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “My
motivation is mobile. Wherever you are, I can be.”
What does this business do? “Sells comfortable, modest, unique and beautiful clothing for women of all shapes and sizes. Changing lives and making woman feel
beautiful and confident.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “The clothing and how they feel in it. But most important the friendship it brings to being a customer of ours.”
What does this business do?: “We help adults and children to develop the interpersonal communication and emotional intelligence skills necessary to have healthy and effective personal and professional relationships. Our signature program, Girls
Perfectly Posh
GIFT GUIDE
Talk, is designed for girls in grades 3-8 and is facilitated as an after-school program in valley schools, and offered as day or week long workshops at local businesses and churches. We also offer private coaching for children and adults, and workshops for businesses and organizations.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: I hope the residents of Ahwatukee will appreciate the quality of our services, and the passion for what we do. Everyone in a community benefits when individuals focus on self-awareness, and developing healthy relationships. I like to think that by helping others to improve their communication skills, we are doing our part to support a happier and healthier community.
What does this business do? “Beautycounter is a skincare and makeup company that chooses to use high quality but safe from toxic harmful chemicals and ingredi-
ents. Their mission is to get safer products into the hands of everyone.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “Beautycounter is a company that cares about people’s health and wellbeing. “
DESERT PALM CANDLES
Owner: Jana Angelo
Contact Info: 480-688-4860, desertpalmcandles@gmail.com, Facebook and Instagram: @desertpalmcandles
What does this business do? “Desert Palm Candles makes artisan crafted candles. We offer a luxury candle at an affordable price and have the flexibility to
sell via retail, wholesale, fundraisers and licensed pours.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “We offer a luxury candle at an affordable price and 15 percent of our net proceeds are donated to charity. Equally as important, our candles are natural burning, made with 100
(Special to AFN)
Desert Palm Candles
Gift Guide
www.ahwatukee.com
Here are some businesses to shop local in Ahwatukee for Christmas
If you are looking for gifts that will not only re ect holiday cheer, but also help your community, here is a list of independent local businesswomen who can ll the bill.
Ask them about special items, gift certi cates from those who provide a service and any special o ers they might have for the holidays.
What does this business do? “I sell and educate others on using essential oils to improve health and wellness, and remove toxins from their household.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “I believe in building a friendship and supporting my essential oil users. I provide mentoring, education, and training on how to use essentials oil effectively.”
ese businesses are owned by members of Tukee Sisters, a group started by jewelry-maker Heidi Winquist to help independent businesswomen in Ahwatukee.
What Ahwatukee residents will like:
“With all these services under one roof, we brainstorm to find the most comprehensive plan for each patient, we communicate about the patients progress and quickly decide to make changes if somebody fails to respond to care.”
MARY’S MARIANA
Owner: Mary Steagall
Contact info: marysmariana.com, marysmariana@ cox.net or 480-4272332.
Hours: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. to call, shop anytime.
Started: 2011. What does this business do? “I sell custom, hand-made Mariana Jewelry that is imported from Israel.”
ANGELA J. CHRISTOPHER, DC, ART, MUAC
Contact info: AZ Spine Disc and Sport, 4530 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee. 480-7591668, dracdc2005@hotmail.com.
Hours: 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Started: “We are going on 12 years now.” What does this business do? “AZSDS is a multi-specialty medical center. Our office offers services that include primary care, pain management, sports medicine, chiropractic, physical therapy, acupuncture, athletic training, massage therapy, personal training, weight loss and nutrition.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “The variety of items and the quality.”
Started: July 2013. What does this business do? “My business was created out of a necessity when my daughter was born. I was nursing her and never found a cover I liked. I decided to make my own out of a cute pink knit fabric. My mom sews and taught me the
Inc.
basics, and I taught myself how to make a perfect nursing cover that easily turns into a scarf afterwards. My shop was open for 1 month before I had customers asking me to create scarves for them that were not used for nursing, so I branched out to create scarves for women and children, along with my nursing covers. I specialize in fabric mixing, where I find two fabrics that you wouldn’t think would go well together, and create a truly one-of-a-kind piece.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “I love to be able to give the residents of Ahwatukee a new and fun accessory to wear in our cooler months.”
Hours: 24/7 online, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. for phone calls/texts.
Started: 2014.
What does this business do? “I’m an independent consultant for Jamberry Nails, providing nail polish alternatives, trendy DIY nail art, healthier nail polish and gel manicure solutions for women to use in their homes, on their own schedules; or take to their favorite salons for application
there. My ‘Mani Mixers’ give women the chance to get a few friends together to have fun, learn about the application, and play ‘dress up nails.’”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “The personal relationships and one-on-one service I provide, as well as the amazing products.”
Hours: Flexible, but typically 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday – Friday.
Started: July 2013
What does this business do? “I provide personalized vacation planning services for clients who want to make sure they are getting the right vacation, at the best price.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “I am local, have lived here for over 20 years, know and love this community, and treat each booking I make for a client as if it were my very own.”
K8’S PET CARE
Owner: Kate McPike
(Special to AFN) Cruises,
(Special to AFN)
K8's Pet Care
Presented by
Nothing like the Festival of Lights—or the Kick-Off Party
BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
Try scouring the Internet to find anything like Ahwatukee’s Festival of Lights and you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything remotely like it. It’s not the lights display along Chandler Boulevard, as impressive as it is, that isn’t duplicated anywhere else. What’s impressive is that the display has grown from the community’s heart. And you’ll be able to hear that heart beating 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday at Desert Foothills Park on Chandler
Boulevard near Marketplace when a big community party is thrown by the small band of dedicated volunteers who have labored for more than two decades to present the annual lights show.
But the party isn’t just a party, as fabulous as it will be with a myriad of attractions and activities for young and old alike.
It gives Ahwatukee residents a chance to help fund the continuation of the display and help two exceptional local nonprofit organizations extend the spirit of the holidays throughout the entire year.
Use this special pull-out section to help you navigate the festivities
The community historically has been generous, led by The Foothills and Club West homeowners associations, which kick in a considerable donation.
Last year, the Festival of Lights KickOff Party helped raise $7,000 for the
(Special to AFN)
The Lighted Motorcycle Parade, sponsored by Ridenow, rolls at 6 p.m.
Lighted Motorcycle Parade Route
Vendors
Ahwatukee Foothills YMCA Outreach Program for Ahwatukee Seniors and the Kyrene Foundation.
The Kyrene Foundation‘s mission is to remove barriers to learning so that all students have the opportunity to excel in school. Funds raised help to support the Kyrene Family Resource Center which provides Kyrene families in need.
Y OPAS provides free transportation for local seniors who have no way of getting to medical appointments, supermarkets or other critical destinations.
This year, the Festival of Lights association will be honoring Y OPAS again as well as Girls Rule, a nonprofit founded by an Ahwatukee woman to help build leadership skills among girls 12 to 18 years of age.
The association that organizes the KickOff Party and keeps that light display humming every holiday season comprises only about 20 people, among them Janyce Hazlett and Susan Anderton, two of the original women who helped rescue the lights display in 1995.
An Ahwatukee resident since 1993 and Festival of Lights president, Hazlett recalled how much she admired the
lights when development company Del Webb first put them up as a way to attract home buyers to the thennew Foothills community during the Christmas season.
When Del Webb took them down, she said, “many of us missed them and over a glass of wine at my kitchen table, plans were put in place to create the Festival of Lights Association,” Hazlett said.
That was 21 years ago, and the lights haven’t gone out once despite some critical challenges over the years.
“We are proud to say that everyone working on the Festival of Lights activities is a volunteer and we always welcome new committee members,” Hazlett added.
As the head honcho for marketing the festival, Anderton also has been hard at work the last few weeks putting the finishing touches on Ahwatukee’s season’s greetings to the Valley.
She’s particularly excited that Ahwatukee dance instructor Kimberly Lewis will be bringing some of her “Ahwatukee Nutcracker” dancers.
“We are extremely excited about this,” she said. “This is the first year we have had community entertainment after 5 p.m. We want to offer more for the late arrivals who tend to begin coming
around 4 p.m. We also will keep four rides open until 9 p.m. Two for our under 9 years of age and two for over 9.”
The Marketplace, sponsored by Ahwatukee Foothills Ace Hardware, also will be open until 9 p.m.
The Tavern, sponsored by Oasis in the Foothills, will have craft breweries along with Coors and Blue Moon from Crescent Crown, along with a selection of wines and hard liquor. Four food trucks also will be posted nearby from 6-9 p.m.—in addition to 15 restaurants that will have a presence all day long.
The Festival Stage will be rockin’ into the late evening with Uncorked and Tripwire. And there will be TVs available for football fans as well as Jenga and Corn Hole.
The 100-bike-plus Lighted Motorcycle Parade, sponsored by Ridenow, will roll down Marketplace at 6 p.m.
Here are some tips from Anderton to add to your enjoyment of Ahwatukee’s biggest party of the year:
• Park at Kyrene Altadena Middle School, 14620 S. Desert Foothills Parkway, and ride the free bus or park at the north side of the Desert Foothills Park off Chandler Boulevard. “Many also choose to park in the adjacent neighborhoods, but we prefer people
use the designated parking spots so our neighbors aren’t inconvenience.” From 4-8 p.m., the YMCA will have one bus running from its parking lot to the entrance. In addition, a cart shuttle service will run along Marketplace to Desert Foothills Parkway to transport folks wanting a ride.
• Dress comfortably. “Even though it might be warm during the day in the sun, once the sun goes down, so does the temperature.”
• ATMs will be on site, but it might be easier to come with cash. Credit cards are accepted in all locations.
• Porta-potties are located in four areas along with the regular park restrooms. A baby changing/feeding location has been added,
• A first aid tent is located near Marketplace tent # 4 but on the grass.
• A sand volleyball game will be going on all day courtesy of the YMCA. The Boy Scouts will have the “monkey bridge” for kids to climb.
• The information booth will be combined with the ticket booth closest to the Candy Lane Pavilion and the entry. The main Festival of Lights location for lost and found children, adults and items is located at the ramada.
our focus onto stronger customer service, updated our equipment, moved to a newly built out facility, and improved our fitness programming. We are the first All Women’s CrossFit Gym. Ahwatukee CrossFit offers daily timed, measured, and varied workouts to keep you motivated. Our workout plans help progression toward group and individual goals. We are more than just a gym, we’re a community. We are everyday women, mothers, grandmothers, daughters, teachers, and professionals who want to get stronger and live a healthy, happy life.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “ We have such a great group of members, that are very supportive of each other.This stems from the pride our coaching staff and owner puts into working with our clients to provide a motivating, safe and healthy atmosphere to achieve your fitness goals. Our facility is brand new, very clean and organized. It is professionally cleaned, kept at a comfortable temperature and has great amenities. Our classes are an hour in length. All you have to do is show up and work. We will lead you through an hour of well thought out, balanced fitness programming, all under the watchful eye of a qualified CrossFit coach.”
What does this business do? “Juice Plus+ is whole food based nutrition, including juice powder concentrates from 30 different fruits, vegetables and grains. Juice Plus+ helps bridge the gap between what you should eat and what you do eat every day. Not a multivitamin, medicine, treatment or cure for any disease, Juice Plus+ is made from quality ingredients carefully monitored from farm to capsule to provide natural nutrients your body needs to be at its best.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “Juice Plus+ makes it easy and convenient for families to get many different raw whole foods in their diet every day. “They can have fruit, vegetable and berry capsules or soft chews, a plant protein shake or a Tower Garden; which is an aeroponic growing system that allows them to grow their own organic produce.”
Contact info: 3936 E. Chandler Blvd., 602621-1512, BlissAhwatukee.com
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, by appointment only.
Started: 2014
What does this business do? “I am a licensed esthetician. I offer full body waxing and skin care services for women and for men. I focus on personalized corrective skin care, helping clients with any skin issues they’re struggling with, but every treatment is also a pampering experience.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “My location is very convenient It’s close to the freeway, but also tucked away near the foothills. Also, my hours are very flexible. I work late evenings to accommodate working clients. Mostly, I work hard to make sure each client is satisfied—service you only receive through a small business.”
What does this business do? “We make homemade gluten free desserts for gluten free people, made by gluten free people. Delivered fresh to our customers’ door. “
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “That we are a local family-based business that bakes gluten free goodies because we too are gluten free. Celiac is not an easy autoimmune disease, but having great tasting gluten free desserts helps.”
super convenient. We also have the best prices in the Valley.”
What does this business do? “I crochet items for mamas and their minis. Everything is handmade by myself. My most popular items include mermaid blankets, beanies of all sizes, and bow ties.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like:
“Ahwatukee residents will love my crochet items because they are handmade and personalized. I can make almost anything that a customer is looking for. They are able to send me an image and I can bring that image to life with a hook and yarn.”
Contact info: 602367-1847, jackie@ awesometotsparty. com, Facebook and Instagram.
Hours: All week 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Started: 2016 What does this business do? “Soft Play equipment rental.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “New and exciting Soft Play can help you have an extremely fun event and keep toddlers as well as crawling infants safe while playing. We bring the equipment to you set it up and come back to pick up making it
Hours: by appointment
Started: 2014
What does this business do? “Pediatric OT: school based therapy/consult, handwriting instruction, self-regulation coaching, evaluation/ screenings; Yoga therapy for wellness and vitality through the lifespan (yin, yoga nidra stress reduction/ relaxation, healing and self-care, trauma release, self-concept, chair yoga, meridian theory and energy elements, creative enhancements such as mudra and art, meditation, home programs for modified yoga needs).”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “I genuinely care about the client’s priorities and quality of life. I have the medical/ educational background and experience
(Special to AFN)
EB's Delites
(Special to AFN)
Mamas & Minis Crochet Shop
(Special to AFN)
PHOENIX FAMILY BIRTH
my clientele in order to share yoga therapy and facilitate vitality and wellness. Yoga has not only been therapeutic for me, but truly life changing.”
Started: 1993.
What does this business do? “I paint murals and decorative finishes for nurseries, restaurants, schools, virtually all rooms for residential and commercial spaces.”
EB’S DELITES
Owner: Ebonni Davis
Contact info: 48th Street and Ray Road, 626-298-3092, Ebsdelites@gmail.com.
Hours: 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
Started: 2013
What does this business do? “Provide flavorful custom desserts to guarantee a delight in every bite. Cakes for all events, cake pops, cupcakes, cookies, brownies, Rice Krispie treats.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “They will like that I provide very creative, unique and delicious desserts that are guaranteed to satisfy everyone.”
Contact info: shopmyplexus.com/ mrskmart2015 or mrskmart2015@gmail. com.
Hours: 24/7.
Started: April 2016
What does this business do? “Give me the opportunity to share a line of natural health supplements that address the 3 key health issues in America today: blood sugar, inflammation, and gut health.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “People everywhere will love being able to have more energy, feel more alert, and overall healthier. They may even shed a few pounds.”
CUSTOMER FRAMING
Owner: Marjorie Lucas
Contact info: 480-3717442.
of occupational therapy enhanced with the amazing mind-body-spirit lifestyle strategies afforded through yoga therapy. Although I have specialized in pediatrics with home-based and school-based clients most of my career, I am now broadening
What does this business do? “Boxing, kickboxing, boot camps, kid Muay Thai, adult Muay Thai, group classes, personal training. A 12,000-square-foot facility that is family-owned and operated. Family and kid friendly where every gym member becomes a JAB family member.
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “That we have all the amenities of a corporate owned gym, with the JAB family environment.”
Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday. What does this business do? “I am a commercial and residential custom picture-framing business. I am a mobile business and I can bring the samples to you. I frame certificates, prints, mirrors of all sizes (especially for bathroom vanities), jerseys, wedding gowns, christening gowns, sports memorabilia, military items. No job is too big.”
What Ahwatukee residents will like: “They are going to like the fact that my business is mobile. They are going to like seeing the samples at the location the framing project is for. It is a great benefit for residents and business owners.”
These five digital devices can go under the Christmas tree
BY MIKE SMOTHERS
AFN Guest Writer
For many small business enterprises, the Christmas shopping season represents between 20 and 40 percent of their entire annual income.
With more and more people utilizing the ease and convenience of online shopping, it is yet another hurdle the small business owner has to overcome of they want to keep the doors open.
Shop locally when you can and patronize the people who strive to give you the best personalized service you can only get from a neighborhood small business owner.
These days almost every major retailer has followed the business model of Amazon in offering nearly any product
your heart desires.
Check out the WalMart, Target or any other big box store website and you would think they must have shelf after shelf of items available for immediate purchase. In reality, they offer a large number of items for purchase but stock or even carry only a few. Many of these stores have partnered with vendors who package and ship their products after the sale and pay a listing price to the Website owner.
Below is a list of my top four electronic gifts for this gift-giving season and a stocking stuffer at the end. These gifts are for sale at most online retailers and may be locally available as well. I highly recommend calling for availability locally before you drive to the store to ensure they have what you are looking for.
Amazon Fire TV. The latest offering from Amazon to help you ditch the cable or satellite TV provider. Amazon Fire TV wirelessly connects to your broadband Internet then connects through an HDMI cord to your TV to provide you with a basic list of channels like AMC, HGTV, ESPN, Fox and others to get live coverage.
It also streams programs from their Amazon Instant Video and other libraries along with over 1,400 games like Minecraft, Lego Star Wars and PacMan 256 and others. Subscriber services to HBO, Cinemax and others allows for many options for viewing. Amazon Fire TV is modestly priced at about $89.99 with voice remote and available at Amazon and most online retailers. If you prefer similar viewing at a lower price,
you can now get the Amazon Fire TV HDMI stick with a voice remote for only about $40.
Bose Soundlink Mini
Bluetooth Speaker II. Bose has been known for the finest in sound reproduction and now with their latest wireless, Bluetooth minispeaker system, it makes it easier than ever to take your playlists with you wherever you go.
A built-in speakerphone allows you to take calls out loud so you never
have to fumble with your phone to turn down the music while you answer a call. It comes with easy to follow pairing instructions, a lithium-ion battery which plays for up to 10 hours on a full charge and is compact and completely wireless. This is available at Fry’s Electronics, BestBuy and many online retailers for $179.95.
Samsung Gear VR Virtual Reality
Headset. Virtual reality headsets are the drones of last Christmas. There are a number of headsets available but the two biggest names are Sony and Samsung and in my view, the Samsung is the way to go, especially if you have one of the popular Samsung phones like Note5, Galaxy S6, S6 Edge, or Galaxy S7.
The Samsung is lighter than the Sony and more comfortable for longer wearing without difficulty. If you are unfamiliar with virtual reality, these headsets give you a feeling of being part of the action instead of just watching the action from a distance. You can play games, watch stunning 2D and 3D movies and try a myriad of different virtual reality experiences. They are available at Target, WalMart, Staples, BestBuy, and most online retailers for about $60-$80.
Fitbit Charge 2. With more people becoming health conscious, the Fitbit remains an almost necessary part of your workout routine. It is worn on your wrist and measures distance traveled, time, calories burned, sleep activity, heart rate and steps taken.
You can set it up to give you a number of different notifications and it comes with personalized exercise modes to view real time stats and guided breathing sessions
My Sister’s Closet celebrates 25 years
BY DAVID M. BROWN AFN Contributing Writer
The three sisters––Ann and Jenny Sincer and Tess Loo––give, give and give. Their Arizona-based Eco-Chic Consignments Inc. is a trio of high-end designer consignment stores: My Sister’s Closet (recycled designer apparel and accessories for women); My Sister’s Attic (recycled home furnishings); and Well Suited (men’s apparel).
Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, My Sister’s Closet has become a $25-plus million business with 15 stores in the Valley and San Diego and Encinitas, California.
Two years ago, the sisters added My Sisters’ Charities Thrift Store at The Fulton Promenade, 4985 S. Alma School Road, Chandler.
The for-profit consignment stores contribute revenue, manpower and unsold merchandise for My Sister’s Charities Foundation, a Chandlerbased nonprofit includes the thrift store. The store employs three and has one volunteer.
Jenny, an Ahwatukee resident, and Ann started My Sister’s Closet in 1991.
“We decided we could create our own resale store that didn’t look like other less desirable resale stores,” said Ann. That first store opened at Town & Country Shopping Center at 20th Street and Camelback Road in Phoenix, and the company expanded with the other locations.
“We’ve watched how other consignment stores throw out merchandise or store it in warehouses, and we didn’t want to do that, so we came up with the idea for the Chandler thrift store and for donating all of its proceeds to charity,” she added.
Each of their Arizona and California locations sells consigned items at 60−90 percent below retail value. Those items
that do not sell in the consignment stores are trucked to the Chandler thrift
(My Sisters Closet/Special to AFN)
Jenny Siner, left, and her Ahwatukee sister Ann Siner have made My Sisters Closet a national business that generously gives to charities.
See CLOSET on page 41
Holiday lights business saves grief, shares joy
BY SHELLEY GILLESPIE
AFN Contributing Writer
During Cody West’s childhood, one of his fondest memories was his family’s traditional visit to Candy Cane Lane in Southern California. The bright holiday lights and family closeness were etched in his mind.
More recently, his friend Addison Lee and he, both WP Carey business school grads, tossed ideas around ideas until they decided on a light installation company. They researched what companies were doing.
“We could do a lot better,” West said. Holiday lighting installers visited a home, measured and provided a quote that was difficult to standardize.
“There was no price transparency, no amount per square foot quoted, and dishonest practices at play,” West added. Installers disappeared when it came time to maintain or remove lights.
“They were charging outrageous amounts.”
West, Lee, and their friend, Ben Frelka, started Lumineso, a company to develop a new image for how the industry
functions. In their first year in business, they already have an avid fan.
Nicole Piper, a Peoria resident, was delighted as a Lumineso crew installed her holiday lights in early November.
Holiday decorations have been a sore point for her family since her husband, David, fell off their two-story roof and nearly died while placing holiday decorations five years ago.
“Actually, the paramedics said David probably died,” she said. “When I spoke with him, he choked and wasn’t breathing.”
Now, Nicole hides the ladders and refuses to let her father and husband put up any lights above their immediate reach.
“Decorations are a big deal in my family,” said Nicole, “Last year, we hired an installation company that didn’t come on time, maintain or remove the lighting. We hired a second person to remove the lights.”
Wary after her experience, Nicole placed an order for lighting installation on a work bidding website where she met Lumineso.
Nicole was impressed with Lumineso
as they communicated well, following up when promised and not badgering her.
“They were flexible with dates and their price was reasonable,” Nicole said. “And, their price was less than the rate from the previous company.”
Now in their one-story 2,300-squarefoot home, the Piper family decorates
extensively. In a neighborhood that brings tour buses people in to see the extensive holiday lighting, the Pipers are no slackers.
“It’s a huge deal,” she says. They place a sleigh with reindeers on the roof with packages that light
Dr. Anita Marra
(Special to AFN)
Friends, from left, Ben Frelka, Cody West and Addison Lee founded Lumineso to provide a less expensive Christmas light decoration service than the industry typically provides.
up, decorate with icicle lights, spread lighting on the lawn to look like snow, install snowflakes on the home’s ledge, and dancing lights on little twigs. They also include animated figures of a buck and does feeding. There’s a long list of holiday decorations, meant to delight their family and those who drive by in the neighborhood to view the lights. This week, David had spinal surgery scheduled. Nicole was determined he would return from the hospital to see the decorations. So, the lights had to be up early.
The Piper household hired Lumineso to install lights and décor. The installer said he’d be there between 7:30 and 8 a.m. and they arrived promptly at 7:45 a.m. Even with the long, extensive list of lights and displays, they were completed in less than six hours.
West, who is employed full-time as a data analyst, coordinates the jobs for Lumineso. He has researched extensively, including which roof types must be carefully approached so warranties are
not voided. Sand cast, wood shingles and clay tile roofs require special handling. He encourages homeowners to use LED lighting, when possible.
“They use 80 percent less electricity,” West said.
If a large lighting installation requires extensive electricity, they have a licensed electrician to ensure safety.
To protect homes when installing lighting, West cautions, “Do not use staple guns. They cause permanent damage. We use plastic clips and if it’s stucco or brick, hot glue, which cleans off.”
As the season gets busy, he intends to “Get my hands dirty.”
Lumineso installs lighting in the East Valley and Phoenix area. Make a Wish AZ will receive a 10 percent donation from all Lumineso projects. They also are running a contest until Nov. 30 with prizes of one free Christmas light installation, two Christmas lawn inflatables, and two Christmas laser light projectors.
Information: Lumineso.com or 847348-9160.
store and in California to the Rancho Coastal Humane Society’s thrift store in Encinitas.
And, if items don’t sell at the Chandler thrift store, where they are $1 to $10 with no sales tax, they are sold to a Valley recycler.
These proceeds and all net profits from sales at the nonprofit Chandler thrift store are donated to Valley nonprofits, after the sisters expense rent, insurance, employee pay and utilities.
In late August, Ann and Jenny, for instance, collected 186 bags of clothes and accessories from the Lincoln Village Store in Scottsdale and delivered them to the Chandler thrift store; they estimated that those bags can raise $25,000 for the nonprofit community.
And, employees at the My Sister’s Closet Desert Village at Pinnacle Peak, also in Scottsdale, gathered 205 bags and the Town & Country Phoenix location 147 bags, with everything going to the three Arizona Humane Society thrift stores in the Valley, including one in Tempe.
The company donates at least three to six truckloads every week to all of the charity thrift stores, including theirs.
“In addition to raising so much money to help our community, our thrift store also gives people the opportunity to buy great clothing and home goods for as little as a buck or two,” Jenny said.
In the first six months after opening the Chandler thrift store, the company netted more than $70,000 for charities. And in 2015, their total charitable giving exceeded $200,000, Ann said.
In 2016, the company has donated $12,000 to Fresh Start Women’s Foundation, $30,000-plus for Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center (SWCC) to protect the Mexican Grey Wolves as
well as other sums. My Sisters’ Charities also has a Dinner With Wolves event every year to benefit SWCC and Defenders of Wildlife.
The Arizona Nature Conservancy received $30,000-plus in 2015.
Other regular beneficiaries are Animal Defense League of Arizona, Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation, Friends of Animal Care and Control, HALO Animal Rescue, the Phoenix Art Museum and, a favorite, the Arizona Humane Society.
“My Sister’s Closet provides AHS with a large volume of in-kind donations, ranging from clothing and home decor to accessories and home furnishings, which we are then able to sell in our own thrift stores, with the proceeds going back to AHS’ lifesaving programs and services,” said Bretta Nelson, public relations manager for the Arizona Humane Society.
“Since 2010, this partnership and friendship has helped countless number of pets go on to live wonderful lives,” she added.
“I love wildlife and preserving our country’s nature, I love animals like children, and, of course, we have to look out for each other with the women’s causes,” said Jenny.
Jenny was born in Colorado Springs, attended Arizona State University as an undergraduate and now enjoys the Ahwatukee lifestyle.
“My sisters and I have always volunteered and tried to help the community,” Ann said. “There are so many worthy organizations out there to support, and we are very proud to be able to help many of them help people and animals toward better lives.”
Information: mysisterscloset.com and mysisterscharities.org.
Thrift stores offer way to shop local, save money
BY ADRIANA BECERRA
AFN Staff Writer
The convenience of online shopping has fewer people visiting local stores, instead opting to buy from brand names with one click of a button.
Forrester Research Inc. found that consumers spent $335 billion in online sales; a number that they predict will jump to $523 billion by 2020.
With the option of buying all major brands online, why shop locally?
“You’re supporting your local neighbor, your local community,” said Mike McClanahan, Retail Operations Director for St. Vincent De Paul, “You’re helping someone in need right here.”
Angel Jaquez, store manager at Kid to Kid in Ahwatukee, a resale store specializing in kid’s clothes and toys, agrees.
“It helps the community offer clothing to those who can’t afford it otherwise,” Jaquez said.
Thrift stores offer more to consumers than just shopping locally. They offer clothing and various items at discounted prices, along with an easy way of getting rid of that “clutter closet.”
Thrift stores rely heavily on donations for sustainability. Some only take clothing, while others will take food, clothing and other items.
“Every item that is on our floor is donated,” said Geena Caviness, store manager at the White Dove Thrift Shoppe in Mesa.
Unlike thrift stores, resale stores will pay donors for their clothing, either cash or store credit. Buffalo Exchange will buy clothing at a price they appraised.
“Each buyer is trained through hands-on experience and by becoming completely in tune with the inventory of the store so they can give a fair payout to the seller while offering a good deal for the customer,” said Stephanie Lew, Marketing Director of Buffalo Exchange, a resale store that first opened in Tucson in 1974.
Many thrift stores will invest their funds back in their stores. Others donate their revenue to different charities and organizations.
“We donate to the Salvation Army and the Phoenix Dream Center,” said Jaquez.
The White Dove Thrift Shoppe and St. Vincent de Paul support their respective charity organizations.
“Our funds go directly to our patient care at Hospice of the Valley,” Caviness said.
Hospice of the Valley is called the largest not-for-profit hospice in the nation. They serve around 17,000 patients and families throughout Central Arizona.
McClanahan said funds from St.
If you're furnishing an apartment or a home, don't overlook the bargains to be found at area thrift stores, where you can find some pieces for a fraction of their original cost.
Vincent de Paul’s 17 thrift stores in Arizona go to their mission to feed, clothe, house and heal.
“It goes to fund our special ministries where we can buy clothing and essentials for the homeless and the needy,” said McClanahan.
Caviness said that thrift stores are not only beneficial for the people directly involved, but the state as a whole.
“You’re helping the state and incoming money,” said Caviness. “You’re putting people to work. It’s recycling at its best.”
Lew agrees with Caviness on the notion of reduce, reuse, recycle.
“By recycling your clothing through selling or donation, you’re giving the clothing a second life,” Lew said. “This helps by not contributing to the demand and waste of clothing pollution.” Shopping locally proves beneficial for consumers, charities, the environment and the state.
McClanahan said that while shopping at Target is great, there’s nothing like the intimacy of shopping at mom and pop stores.
“Small businesses are the lifeblood of a good economy in any community,” he said.
(Special to AFN)
Thrift stores throughout the East Valley offer a good source of inexpensive and unusual Christmas gifts and an avenue for shopping locally.
(Special to AFN)
to help find your moments of calm. The Fitbit is compatible with Andriod and iOS systems and costs $149.95 at Kohl’s, Target, Dick’s Sporting Goods, most health clubs and on-line.
Above Tek Gooseneck Tablet Arm. Do you have a friend or relative on your gift list who loves to read or surf the Net in bed or simply does not like holding their iPad, iPhone, tablets or phones? This may be the perfect gift for them.
Easy and lightweight, this holder mounts almost anywhere that has an edge like a desk, bed frame or night stand and gives you 360-degree rotatable swivel so you can position your device in the perfect place for you. It comes with three different clamps to fit any personal device you may have and at about $40, it may be the stocking stuffer of the year. Available at Sears, Staples, and most online retailers.
Mike Smothers is president of Smothers Computer Services in Ahwatukee. Send questions to mike@smotherscomputers.com or call 480-753-7667
‘Local First’ is a good approach to this holiday season
BY KIMBER LANNING AFN Guest Writer
With holiday spending projected to exceed $650 billion this year across America, have you thought about where that money goes once you have spent it?
“
Studies show that when you spend your money with locallyowned businesses— businesses that are headquartered here in Arizona as well as owned and operated by Arizonans—up to four times more money will stay in the local economy than if you spent that money at a national chain or mega online retailer.
Ahwatukee is filled to the brim with unique local businesses that offer a variety of great options for holiday gift giving. ”
spending holiday, we encourage you to think “Local First” this holiday season. If each holiday shopper shifted just 10 percent of their spending from national chains to independent businesses, that would add up to a huge investment in creating vibrant communities that we are proud to call home.
—Kimber Lanning
All that money re-circulating in the local economy equates to higher rates of job creation and more prosperous communities overall.
As we approach the year’s largest
Join Local First Arizona in celebrating Buy Local Month from Friday through Jan. 1, and keep your money where your home is this holiday season.
Ahwatukee and the East Valley are filled to the brim with unique local businesses that offer a variety of great options for holiday gift giving. Be sure to drop by the historical downtown areas of Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, or Chandler. You can also check out our local business directory of nearly 3,000 local businesses from across the state at
localfirstaz.com, where you’ll also find Buy Local Month discounts, top gift picks, holiday events, and more.
(Special to AFN)
Kimber Lanning is founder and director of Local First Arizona.
Three rescued dogs seek new masters
Jenny Medlock of Arizona Rescue.
Three dogs are looking for new masters in Ahwatukee.
Jannell Cosgriff of Friends for Life adoption center calls Virgil “a fun loving” Jack Russell Terrier blend. At a year-old and about 15 pounds, he “would make a great hiking or jogging buddy” because he “does great on a leash and responds well to commands.”
She said his ideal home would be an active one that can give him lots of attention.
His adoption fee is $175 and he is neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and licensed. Information: 480-497-8296, ffldogs@azfriends.org or azfriends.org.
“She has a huge heart, a vibrant personality, and a spunk to her that quickly causes you to forget any cares and is guaranteed to brighten your day,” Medlock said of the “affectionate pup who enjoys snuggling with her people, loves getting hugs, and likes being petted.”
While she loves the outdoors, Chiquita “has excellent leash manners and enjoys car rides,” she added, noting her “inquisitive nature doesn’t miss a thing” and that “she really takes an interest in her surroundings and processes everything she observes.
pals. One of the smartest dogs our volunteers have worked with, Chiquita is easily trained with a combination of the clicker, treats, patience, and repetition.”
Chiquita “is a sweet, entertaining, boisterous 3-year-old Shiba Inu Mix who always wears a super big smile,” said
“She is a people watcher and is entertained for hours at a coffee shop, dog-friendly patio, or the park,” Medlock continued. “Chiquita plays hard, so she sometimes needs help recognizing when her exuberance becomes overwhelming for her canine
She also enjoys chew toys and burrowing through dog beds and her “outgoing, affectionate, energetic personality makes her the perfect companion for an active, outdoorsy person who also enjoys snuggling on the couch with their furry friend,” Medlock said. Information: azrescue.org.
Shauna Michael of Arizona Animal
Welfare League said Norman, a 6-monthold Chihuahua mix, also “has a big personality for his little size.”
“Norman can be a little shy at first, but with a few treats and belly rubs, he will warm right up and melt in your lap,” she added.
She said his ideal family is one “that can provide training and socializing” and that the dog “loves to go for walks, but spends most of his time snuggling with his favorite people.”
Information: 602-273-6852 ext.116.
UPGRADE TO A SMART GARAGE
(Special to AFN)
Norman
(Special to AFN)
Virgil
(Special to AFN) Chiquita
Area faith leaders discuss what they’re grateful for
BY RALPH ZUBIATE AFN Managing Editor
Heading into the holiday season, people start reflecting on the year that’s quickly ending and the year to come. Thanksgiving is an especially good time to look back.
Amid all the turkey and football and family, faith leaders in the East Valley shared what they’re most thankful for.
Rabbi Mendy Deitsch, director of Chabad of the East Valley in Chandler, spoke of service.
“I have come to realize that the most amazing feeling is when one engages in helping another person,” he said. He said he is thankful for God’s gifts, “and we should use them to share with someone else.”
He said service leads to thankfulness.
“The more we share with others, the more we will have something to be thankful for.”
Paul Artino, executive pastor at Redemption Church in Gilbert, also talked about God’s gifts.
“I feel like every day is a reminder of and experience of God’s unmerited favor,” he said.
“Having seen and experienced people and places in the world who have far less, and who are more satisfied, it is hard to find reasons to not be thankful.”
Also, Artino spoke of things more personal.
“Relationships will always be at the top of my ‘thankful’ list. From my wife and kids, to the incredible people I get to serve alongside, to all the people who have shaped me in my life, I’m constantly reminded of what a gift these relationships have been and are to me,” he said.
Bante Ananda Siyabalagoda of the Arizona International Buddhist Meditation Center in Mesa reflects on community.
“I am thankful for the large community of Buddhists who attend the Buddhist center, the opportunity to present meditation classes, observe the rituals of our religion and the many other services we render,” he said.
Father Sergio Muñoz Fita, who appears
in “Footprints,” a documentary about a pilgrimage he led in Spain, was thankful for another trip he took.
“Something I’m very grateful for is this summer, we took a group of 63 young people to World Youth Day, in Poland.”
Fita is pastor at St. Anne Catholic Parish in Gilbert.
“I feel at peace in many ways—inside, outside, everything seems to be in place,” he said.
Father Philip Armstrong, pastor of the St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church in Chandler, is thankful for things big and small this year.
On his list was appreciation for the Holy Trinity “who gave me the gift of life,” to his parents, family, friends, parishioners and other clergy.
Armstrong also is thankful to this nation’s founders, and “for the many freedoms I experience being an American, especially the freedom of religion.”
“And, I’m thankful to all those who tolerate my imperfections,” he said.
Pastor Thor Strandholt of Valor Christian Center in Gilbert had many
things to be thankful for.
“As a Vietnam veteran, I’m thankful for a country that allows us freedoms that we have on a day-by-day basis,” Strandholt said. “The freedom to choose where we want to go and what we want to do without borders and restrictions.
“As a retired physician, I’m thankful for the good health my family and I enjoy. And as an associate pastor, I’m thankful for the freedom to serve a God that delivered me from the path of destruction and set my feet on solid ground with Heaven as my future destination.”
Andrew Aziz, deacon at Mar Yosip Parish of the Assyrian Church of the East in Chandler, talked about his congregation and their push for a building of their own.
“I personally am thankful for having my congregation,” he said. “Although we don’t have a church building, the people that attend are the church to me. Without them, there is no church to build, and nobody to preach to. They are truly a blessing to me.”
Thanksgiving prayer: Let us come together in the true spirit of these days
AFN Guest Writer
In the aftermath of a very difficult few months in our nation’s psyche, Thanksgiving comes not a moment too soon. We are blessed with the opportunity to gather with family and friends, to enjoy the traditional foods of harvest, to root for our favorite teams, and to take time to reflect on what we believe to be America’s greatest and enduring strengths: our ability to unite in difficult times, our commitment to care for the orphan and the widow, our charge to
seek justice for all, our call to uphold civil rights and freedom for all, our moral imperative to respect and honor one another for our differences and our similarities as human beings.
For those of us who connect deeply with a spiritual being, we also give thanks to the gentle and soothing voice within that comforts us in our moments of distress, that urges us to action in moments of need, that reassures us when we falter, that supports us when we stumble, and that rejoices with us when we succeed.
We are ever grateful for the spark of holiness that lives within each of us, that calls us to be compassionate and loving
to our neighbors, to our family, to our national and global communities.
Now is the time to mend strained relationships, to repair hurtful family dynamics. Now is the time to reject hateful rhetoric and irresponsible language. Now is the time to confront our own biases and prejudices and to work to eradicate them from ourselves.
Why?
Because, there is no room for God in a heart filled with anger and resentment. There is no room for love in a soul tormented by fear and distrust. There is no hope for a country mired in negativity and hatred.
As the winter holiday season
commences officially this week, programs and services and special events will happen at synagogues, churches, mosques, temples, meeting houses, and wherever folks gather to celebrate the Divine.
Let us come together in the true spirit of these days—celebrating freedom of religion, freedom of self-expression, and freedom to be an American. May this Thanksgiving and the weeks to come propel America into the nation we want her to be, we know her to be, and we pray for her to be.
-Rabbi Susan Schanerman is the spiritual leader of Ahwatukee Congregation. Information: www.nefeshsoul.com or contact her at rabbi@ nefeshsould.org.
Deitsch Armstrong
Artino
RABBI SUSAN SCHANERMAN
SATURDAY, DEC. 3
HAVDALLAH CEREMONY
CKids Club International presents Saturday Night Alive, a musical celebration of family and the mystical havdallah ceremony. The havdallah is an ancient ritual, performed by our Jewish ancestors for thousands of year as a way to mark the conclusion of Shabbat and welcome in the new week.
DETAILS> 7-8:30 p.m., Chabad of the East Valley, 875 N McClintock Dr., Chandler. Information: 480-855-4333, or info@chabadcenter.com.
SUNDAY, DEC. 4
SPECIAL CONCERT PLANNED
Guest artists from the first annual Summer Artist in Residence Program, Chandler Gilbert Community College piano professor Piano Amanda Sherrill, and Arizona Opera soprano Melissa Solomon, will present a holiday concert of Bach, Handel, Rachmaninov and beloved classics.
DETAILS> 2 p.m., Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 739 W. Erie St., Chandler. Admission, $15/students, $10. Children under 10 are free. Information: 480-936-4127, or Earl@htlutheran.com.
SATURDAY, DEC. 10
CHRISTMAS FOR KIDS
Children ages 3 through 10 are invited to come and celebrate the birth of our Savior in Calvary Lutheran Church’s Christmas for Kids. Besides the Christmas lesson, children will have all kinds of activities from crafts, to music, to Christmas treats, including birthday cake to celebrate and grow in the true Christmas message. If parents are looking for some time to shop or prepare for Christmas, we would love to have your children enjoy the morning with us.
DETAILS> 9 a.m.-noon, Calvary Lutheran Church, 1270 N. Dobson Road, Chandler. Free. Register at calvarychandler.net under Events, through Dec. 5.
Information: 480-963-9397.
SUNDAY, DEC. 11
‘JAZZOPERETRY’ RETURNS
After a four-year absence, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church and Jazzoperetry (“Jazz-OP-ruh-tree”), Inc., will join forces to present the long-awaited return to Arizona of the contemporary Christian singer/ songwriter Robert Moffat. The Holy Trinity Chancel choir will join the Rob Moffat Chorus and instrumental ensemble to perform a musical nativity.
DETAILS> 2 p.m., 739 W. Erie St., Chandler. Admission $15/students $10. Information: 480-936-4127, or Earl@htlutheran.com.
SUNDAYS
VALOR CHRISTIAN OUTLINES MISSION
Valor Christian Center in Gilbert offers “great praise and worship and great messages for today’s living,” according to Pastor Thor Strandholt, associate pastor. “Our mission is evangelize, healing and discipleship through the word of God.”
DETAILS> 10 a.m. Sundays and 7 p.m. Thursdays. 3015 E. Warner Road. Information: valorcc.com.
HORIZON SEEKS YOUNG PEOPLE
High school and middle school students meet to worship and do life together.
DETAILS>5 p.m. at Horizon Presbyterian Church, 1401 E. Liberty Lane. 480-460-1480 or email joel@ horizonchurch.com.
KIDS CAN LEARN JEWISH LIFE
Children can learn and experience Jewish life. Chabad
Hebrew School focuses on Jewish heritage, culture and holidays.
DETAILS> 9:30 a.m. to noon, for children ages 5-13 at Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler. 480-855-4333, info@ chabadcenter.com, or chabadcenter.com.
RABBINIC
LIT COURSE OFFERED
Ongoing morning study of two classics of rabbinic literature by medieval philosopher Moses Maimonides (the “Rambam”). At 10 a.m., Prof. Norbert Samuelson, Grossman chair of Jewish Philosophy at ASU and TBS member, teaches “Maimonides’ Guide of the Perplexed: What Jews Ought to Believe.” At 11:15 a.m., TBS member Isaac Levy teaches “Maimonides’ Mishneh Torah: How Jews Ought to Behave.” Readings in both Hebrew and English.
DETAILS> Community Room of the administration building at Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley, 3400 N. Dobson Road, Chandler. 480-897-3636.
UNITY OFFERS A PATH
Unity of Mesa says its Sunday service offers “a positive path for spiritual living” through “transformational lessons, empowering music and various spiritual practices with an open-minded and welcoming community.”
DETAILS> 9 a.m. Spiritual discussion group and meditation practices group. 10:15 a.m. service. 2700 E. Southern Ave., Mesa. Child care available at 9 a.m. Nursery for infants through kindergarten at 10:15 a.m. 480-892-2700, unityofmesa.org, joanne@unityofmesa.org.
MONDAYS
JOIN CHRIST-CENTERED YOGA
This Flow 1-2 class (intermediate) is free and open to the community.
DETAILS> 6-7 p.m., Mountain Park Community Church,
2408 E. Pecos Road. Greg Battle at 480-759-6200 or gbattle@moutainpark.org.
CLASS TARGETS THE GRIEVING
Classes for those grieving over death or divorce. DETAILS> 6:30 p.m., Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 739 W. Erie St., Chandler. 480-963-4127.
STRUGGLING FIND SUPPORT
Support group for those struggling with how to deal with a loss in life.
DETAILS> 7 p.m., 1825 S. Alma School Road, Room C201, Chandler. Pastor Larry Daily, 480-963-3997, ext. 141, larrydaily@chandlercc.org or chandlercc.org.
TUESDAYS
JEWISH VIEWS ON HOT-BUTTON ISSUES
A new six session course presents a non-partisan, Jewish view of the hot button 2016 election issues, such as gun control and immigration. The classes will begin Nov. 14 and run for six weeks, until Dec. 19. DETAILS> 7:30-9 p.m., Chabad of the East Valley, 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler. 480-855-4333, chabadcenter.com or info@chabadcenter.com.
DIVORCED CAN FIND COMFORT
People suffering through a divorce or separation can find understanding and caring support to face these challenges.
DETAILS> 6:30-8:30 p.m., Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E Pecos Road, Room 117, Ahwatukee, 480759-6200 or mountainpark.org.
FINDING HEALING FOR PAIN
HOPE, an acronym for “Help Overcome Painful
CALENDAR
from page 46
Experiences,” offers support for men and women who seek God’s grace and healing.
DETAILS> 6:30 to 8 p.m. Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road. mountainpark.org.
SENIORS ENJOY ‘TERRIFIC TUESDAYS’
The program is free and includes bagels and coffee and a different speaker or theme each week. Registration not needed.
DETAILS> 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Barness Family East Valley Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. evjcc.org or 480-897-0588.
WEDNESDAYS
CELEBRATE RECOVERY MEETS
Celebrate Recovery says it “brings your relationship with the Lord closer to your heart as it heals your hurts, habits and hang-ups.” Participants can discuss issues ranging from feeling left out to addictions. “Nothing is too small or too large.”
DETAILS> 6:20 p.m. at Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. mvlutheran.org/ celebraterecovery or email cr@alphamvlc.com.
WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY OFFERED
Living Word Ahwatukee women’s Bible study and fellowship that offers “a short, low-key time of praise and worship in music and message.” It’s also an opportunity to meet other Christian women in Ahwatukee.
DETAILS> 10-11:30 a.m., Living Word Ahwatukee, 14647 W. 50th St., Suite 165, Ahwatukee. Free child care.
GET A ‘SPIRITUAL SHOWER’
A release calls this “a 15-minute energetic tune up each week” and says the Twin Hearts Meditation “is like taking a spiritual shower: when your aura is clean, you experience a higher level of awareness. You see through things more clearly and good luck increases.”
DETAILS> 7-9 p.m. at Unity of Tempe, 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe. 480-792-1800 or unityoftempe.com.
THURSDAYS
KIDS CAN FIND SUPPORT
Support group for children ages 6 to 12 coping with a separation or divorce in the family. One-time $10 fee includes snacks and workbook.
DETAILS> 6:30-8:30 p.m., 1825 S. Alma School Road, Room C202, Chandler. Pastor Larry Daily, 480-963-3997, ext. 141, larrydaily@chandlercc.org or chandlercc.org.
ULPAN INSTRUCTION AVAILABLE
Class is based on Israel’s successful Ulpan instruction. Taught by Ilan Berko, born in Israel, schooled in the U.S. DETAILS> 7 p.m. Chabad of the East Valley, 3875 W.
Ray Road, Suite 6, Chandler. chabadcenter.com or 480-855-4333.
FRIDAYS
NEFESHSOUL HOLDS SERVICES
Congregation NefeshSoul holds Shabbat services the second Friday of every month on the campus of the Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation.
DETAILS> 6:15 p.m., 6400 W. Del Rio St., Chandler. Information: nefeshsoul.org.
TODDLERS CAN MARK SHABBAT
Celebrate Shabbat with a service, music, and a craft project designed for children up to 5 years old and their parents or other adult.
DETAILS> 9:30 a.m., Temple Emanuel, 5801 S. Rural Road. 480-838-1414 or emanueloftempe.org.
TOTS TAUGHT TORAH
Hosted by Chabad of the East Valley for children ages 2 to 5. Features hands-on activities about the Shabbat, songs, stories and crafts. Children will make and braid their own challah.
DETAILS> 10:15-11 a.m., members’ homes. 480-785-5831.
NOSH BEFORE SERVICE
“Nosh” and then enjoy the Shir Shabbat service led by the Shabba-Tones, the Shabbat musical group.
DETAILS> 6 p.m. first Friday of the month, Temple Emanuel, 5801 S. Rural Road, Tempe. 480-838-1414 or emanueloftempe.org.
YOUNG FAMILIES HOLD SHABBAT
Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley invites young families to its services.
DETAILS> Regular services at 6 p.m. except on the third Friday of each month, when a 6 p.m. Young Family Shabbat Service is held for children and adults of all ages. Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley, 3400 N. Dobson Road, Chandler. Shabbat Morning and Torah Service weekly at 9 a.m. 480-897-3636 or tbsev. org. or info@tbsev.org.
SERVICE INCLUDES KIDS
Designed for children up to 5 years old and their parents or other adult. Following the service is an Oneg Shabbat, a time for a snack and to meet other families with young children.
DETAILS> 6:30 p.m. second Fridays, Temple Emanuel, 5801 S. Rural Road. 480-838-1414 or emanueloftempe.org.
TEMPLE EMANUEL LISTS SERVICES
Traditional service followed by an Oneg Shabbat.
DETAILS> 7:30 p.m. second and fourth Fridays, 5801 S. Rural Road, Tempe. 480-838-1414 or emanueloftempe.org.
SATURDAYS
STUDY THE PRAYER BOOK
These special study sessions at the beginning of Shabbat morning services teach the structure of Shabbat services and how to follow in the Siddur (prayer book). Taught by Rabbi Leitner. Introduction to Judaism, Introductory Hebrew Reading for Adults, and Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah Preparation are cumulative, so no new students can be accepted mid-year.
DETAILS> 9-9:30 a.m. fourth Saturday each month, Pre-register for fall by contacting Amy Shevitz at vped@tbsev.org.
WEEKLY SERVICES SCHEDULED
International, nondenominational church offers weekly Sabbath services. Congregational meeting in the morning and Bible study in the afternoon.
DETAILS> 10:30 a.m.-noon; 1:30-2:45 p.m. at True Jesus Church, 2640 N. Dobson Road, Chandler. 480-899-1488 or tjcphoenix@tjc.org.
JEWISH KIDS PROGRAM AVAILABLE
Shabbat Yeladim is a free Shabbat program for Jewish children ages 3-7 sponsored by Ahwatukee’s NefeshSoul Jewish Community. Shabbat Yeladim is on the second Saturday of the month. Songs, stories and art project each month.
DETAILS> 10-11 a.m. on the Valley Unitarian Universalist Campus, 6400 W. Del Rio, Chandler. Contact Rabbi Susan Schanerman at rabbi@nefeshsoul. org or nefeshsoul.org.
STUDY AND WORSHIP IN TEMPE
DETAILS> Temple Emanuel, 5801 S. Rural Road, Tempe. Optional study session at 8:20 a.m., Shabbat morning service at 9:30 a.m., followed by a kiddush. 480-8381414 or emanueloftempe.org.
ONGOING
JEWISH CENTER SELLS GIFTS
The Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life Chai Judaica
and Gifts offers a wide variety of gifts, from Mezuzot to books, religious items and jewelry.
DETAILS> Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler. Gift shop hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday by appointment only and Sundays 9:30-10 a.m. and noon-12:30 p.m. info@chabadcenter.com or 480-855-4333.
TEMPLE PROVIDES KIDS ROOM
The full-time infant room for children ages 6 weeks to 12 months.
DETAILS> Temple Emanuel of Tempe, 5801 S. Rural Road, Tempe. Rachel Wallach, 480-838-1414, or rachel@ emanueloftempe.org.
CHILD DEVELOPMENT AT CHABAD
Reggio-Inspired program where children can develop socially, physically, emotionally and intellectually in a Jewish setting. For preschoolers 12 months to 5 years old, with part-time and half-day options. Before- and after-care hours available.
DETAILS> Shternie Deitsch at info@chabadcenter.com or call 480-855-4333.
GET-ACQUAINTED COFFEE
East Valley Friends and Neighbors holds a monthly getacquainted coffee and short general meeting on the first Wednesday of each month. The group supports local charities and has special-interest groups, such as book discussions and card game groups, that meet throughout the month.
DETAILS> 9:30 a.m. the first Wednesday of each month. Grace United Methodist Church, 2024 E. University Drive, Mesa. Information: 380-828-5146, evfanaz.org or email Tinytubes@cox.net.
Get Out
Scores of young actors taking to the stage for ‘Annie Jr.’
It was 9:15 p.m. on a Friday and the studio was buzzing with excitement.
Grade school girls raced through the halls, packing up their dance bags, storing the prop brooms and buckets and singing bits and pieces of the musical number they just rehearsed.
They had just finished a four-hour rehearsal to cap off a long school week, yet they were untouched by fatigue. If anything, the hours of blocking, dancing and singing filled them with new energy.
For the cast of “Annie Jr.,” the experience is magical.
The show, produced by Gilbert’s Studio 3 Performing Arts in partnership with Limelight Performing Arts, will play at Mesa Arts Center Dec. 14-20 with a bigger-thanexpected cast of actors and actresses from the East Valley and Ahwatukee.
So many young actors turned out for auditions that director Caroline Wagner opted to double- and even triple-cast many of the featured roles, dividing them
into a blue, red and green cast.
“I like performing a lot because it makes people excited and happy if they’re down,” said 8-year-old Baylee Horvath who plays the role of Kate, one of the orphans.
Emma Martin, 10, who plays Tessie, added,
“The fact that I get to express myself to an audience, to make them laugh or feel what I’m feeling, is awesome.”
Despite their youth, the kids bring a giant-sized share of talent to the stage. Many cast members are decorated actors, with AriZoni and National Youth Arts awards and nominations to their credit.
Among them is 17-year-old Jessica Sinodis, who recently starred as Grizabella in Studio 3-Limelight’s summer production of “Cats” and dazzled audiences with a voice that has Broadway written all over it.
She played the role of Pepper in Studio 3’s “Annie Jr.” when she was only 11—it was one of the studio’s very first productions— and now comes full circle to portray the bawdy, hilarious and ill-tempered Miss Hannigan.
“Playing Miss Hannigan was always a
childhood dream,” said Sinodis. “It is not like any theater experience I’ve ever had.
Unlike me, she hates children and is very crass. This is definitely a role that has taken me out of my comfort zone.”
Added Emma England, Studio 3 owner and “Annie Jr.” artistic director: “You can’t help but be swept up when you see the cast perform.”
The depth of the cast’s talent is especially evident among the three 11-yearold performers playing Annie, a dream role for any young girl.
Julia Pitman of Chandler heads up the blue cast. With her red hair, sparkling eyes and freckled cheeks, she truly embodies the role the Annie. She is a skilled and seasoned performer with a big voice and a kind heart who serves as a mentor and big sister to her younger cast mates.
Mesa’s Reagan Plank, who doubles-up as Annie in the green cast and Pepper in the red cast, may be the surprise break-out performer of the group. Even her mom, Amy Plank, had no idea her daughter could sing like that.
Alyse Negroni, who recently moved to Chandler from Yuma, stars in the red cast. She looks the part, acts the part and sings with a pure, yet powerful, voice.
But the show goes well beyond beautiful singing.
When choosing the final cast—after a week-long audition process and multiple call-backs—the directors carefully evaluated the skill, the look and even the height of each performer.
“When choosing our casts, we lined up the girls to make sure they were stair steps in height,” said Wagner. “Just like the movie, Molly had to be the smallest, Duffy had to be the tallest, and Annie was right in the middle. Every single one of them needed to be able to hold their own in singing, acting and dancing.”
Surrounding the orphans is a cast of teenage actors, many of them Studio 3-Limelight regulars. They include Maddy Rathbun (Grace), Matthew Pitman (Rooster), Sarah Golden (Ms. Hannigan, blue cast, and Ms. Pugh, red cast) and Nicolas Caglia
AFN NEWS STAFF
(AFN file photo)
The orphans in “Annie Jr.” are played by, from left Baylee Horvath, Abby Springer, Hailey Laidig, Karis Puckett, Shayla Forero, Kaylee Delgado, Emma Martin, Savannah Springer, Claire O’Malley, McKenna Henry, Mia Tarwater and Reagan Plank.
Be Merry
The holidays sing, dance and act their way across Valley stages.
BY KENNETH LAFAVE GETOUT CONTRIBUTING WRITER
If the composers Peter Tchaikovsky and George Handel were alive, they’d be very wealthy men. Every winter, their music is heard throughout the land as the very epitome of Christmas: Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker” and Handel’s “Messiah.” Ditto Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” Tchaikovsky, Handel and Dickens are gone, but they left us a legacy of work that forms the core of wildly varied Christmastime arts and entertainment.
Around the Valley, it’s possible through the New Year to see several Nutcrackers and Messiahs, myriad children in a Christmas pageant, ukuleles strumming holiday tunes and Alice Cooper’s Christmas Pudding, featuring Santa Claus, rock ‘n’ roll...and a guillotine.
Here are some of the highlights of holiday entertainment in the Valley of the Sun 2016.
Dancing Christmas: Nutcrackers and Snow Queen
The New York Times has called Ballet Arizona’s production “one of the top three Nutcrackers outside New York.” So, expect great dancing and spectacular sets and costumes.
The company will perform on various dates between Dec. 9 and Dec. 24 at Phoenix Symphony Hall. For times and ticket prices go to balletaz.org.
Ballet Etudes’ “Nutcracker” is an East Valley tradition, a showcase for young talent and a heartfelt artistic experience. The company’s 30th anniversary production of the fabled ballet will be performed at two locations—Chandler Center for the Arts from Nov. 25 to Dec. 4, and the Mesa Arts Center Dec. 9-11. For details, visit balletetudes.net.
A modern-dance alternative to “The Nutcracker,” “Snow Queen” is an annual holiday event first staged by choreographer Frances Smith Cohen more than 25 years ago.
Performed annually by Center Dance Ensemble at the Herberger Theater Center in downtown Phoenix, the nonreligious story-in-dance has become a Valley holiday staple.
It runs this year on various dates Dec. 6-21. For details, see herbergertheater.org.
Singing Christmas: ‘Messiah’ and other vocalizations
The Phoenix Symphony really, really wants you to hear Handel’s “Messiah.” Arizona’s largest-funded performing arts organization will present its version of the enduring Christmas classic at five different locations.
The venues are: Dec. 7, Scottsdale Center for the Arts; Dec. 8, Camelback Bible Church; Dec. 9, Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theatre; Dec. 10, Camelback SDA Church; and Dec. 11, Pinnacle Presbyterian Church. For times, ticket prices and addresses: phoenixsymphony.org.
The Phoenix Symphony also knows that not all of you want to listen to 224-yearold music that requires you stand when the choir sings “Hallelujah.”
For those folks, it will play a holiday pops program Dec. 2-Dec. 4 at Phoenix Symphony Hall. The concert features familiar Christmas songs performed by singers Gary Mauer and Christiane Noll, plus you, the audience, in a holiday singalong. Details at the website.
Finally, if you’re hankering to extend the holiday feeling via classical music, the Phoenix Symphony will host its annual New Year’s Eve Gala. It’s an event that includes Strauss waltzes and a complimentary glass of champagne.
Prefer your singing without symphony orchestra? Try American Songbook singer Dave Seabaugh and his 25-piece big band Dec. 17 at the Mesa Arts Center.
It’s the first time the crooner has done a
serving trips through random phenomena. The Hale Centre Theatre in Gilbert has made an annual business of presenting Scrooge, Tiny Tim and the others in a much-loved staging. This year’s production is Dec. 1-Dec. 24. Go to haletheatrearizona. com.
If you find “A Christmas Carol” a little too sentimental for your taste, you can still enjoy the story as transmuted by former writers for “The Colbert Report.”
“Twist Your Dickens” plays the Phoenix Theatre Nov. 30-Dec. 24. Imagine Dickens’ story told with smart-aleck satire and audience interaction. Go to phoenixtheatre.com.
Christmas show. If a rock band is more to your taste, you live in the right town: Alice Cooper blends elements of Halloween with the joys of December holidays in his “Christmas Pudding.”
Korn and the Gin Blossoms will be there, but it is Cooper’s own Hollywood Vampires, featuring Johnny Depp and Joe Perry, that’s sure to get the blood pumping. It happens Dec. 3 at the Celebrity Theatre. Go to celebritytheatre.com.
Acting Christmas: The Dickens, you say
“A Christmas Carol” is the ultimate holiday story. Charles Dickens’ tale is all about greed vs. compassion, and the need to look at our lives as more than self-
In non-Dickensian stagecraft, the awardwinning Childsplay presents something called “A Very Hairy Javelina Holiday.” Sounds as if someone finally made winter holidays relevant to the Sonoran Desert. It is on now through Dec. 24 at Tempe Center for the Arts. Check out tca. ticketforce.com.
Clay Aiken returns to the stage Clay Aiken’s epitaph may be “That Guy from American Idol,” but it’s one of the biggest accomplishment of his career. Thanks to his near win, he has sold six million albums and sold out 11 U.S. tours. For this Chandler Center for the Arts show, the former congressional candidate will be accompanied by a 22-piece orchestra. He reportedly ends his Christmas tours with his signature holiday song, “Don’t Save It All for Christmas Day.”
Holiday miscellany
Mesa Arts Center is this year’s winner for most unusual holiday offerings. Want ukuleles playing holiday tunes? You got it. “Christmas with the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain” arrives Dec. 4.
Choirs and orchestras converge at the MAC Dec. 2-4 for “Good Will Toward Men.”
Think “Christmas” and immediately think “children”? Mesa Arts Center has something for you Dec. 1-11 when it presents the East Valley Children’s Theatre in “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.” Is jazz such a constant in your life that even Christmas means jazz? Try saxophonist Dave Koz’s Christmas Tour at the MAC Dec. 14.
(AFN file photo)
The Phoenix Symphony will perform Handel’s “Messiah” at six Valley venues.
(Rooster, blue cast, and Drake, red cast). Others, like Kendall Kingdesky (Lily St. Regis) and Kate LeCheminant (Tessie) have built their repertoire in productions at other theaters.
Under the artistic direction of England, a life-long performer, the dancing is fun and energetic, yet challenging and polished.
While “Annie Jr.” is one of the mostperformed musicals of all time, the dancing in Studio 3-Limelight’s production gives this show a brand all its own.
“It was important to me to create a show that’s fresh and unexpected—not the same old ‘Annie’ everyone has already seen,” added England. “The choreography is an area where we are really bringing some magic, not only with dancing but with tumbling, too.”
For example, “Hard Knock Life” is full of handsprings, walkovers, and even flips over broomsticks and blankets. “NYC,” a song featuring the entire cast, explodes with energy, bringing to life the magic of New York City through tap, jazz and acrobatics.
Performing in “Annie Jr.” is a dream for the cast and even their parents, who grew up quoting lines and singing along to the famous 1986 movie. The red-headed
orphan, full of spunk and wisdom, imparts a lesson for the generations: never lose hope, take good care of those around you, and life will turn out just fine.
“There’s something uplifting and magical about this show, and it goes well beyond the talent of our actors or the quality of the performance,” said Wagner, an accomplished director, choreographer, actress and teacher. “In a world that’s increasingly troubled, the sweetness and innocence of ‘the sun will come out tomorrow’ fills us with hope for the future.”
It’s a lesson, too, for the kids in the cast, who put in hundreds of hours in rehearsals to produce the best possible performance.
“This is what I love to do,” said Lily Nelson, who plays Duffy in the red cast. “It’s really fun getting to know the other kids in the cast. We share our talents, we support each other, and we encourage each other never to give up and just to keep on doing what we love.”
Performances are scheduled at the Mesa Arts Center Nesbitt/Elliot Playhouse from Dec. 14-20. Tickets are $15 and are available for purchase at mesaartscenter. com, keyword “Annie Jr.,” or by calling the MAC box office at 480-644-6500 Group discounts are also available. Information: limelightyouththeater.org or 480-545-1492
Not your grandmother’s quilts
Quilt artist creates one-of-a-kind-pieces
BY SRIANTHI PERERA AFN Staff Writer
Quilting is “plork” for Marla Hattabaugh, who coined the word to denote a mix between play and work.
The Scottsdale artist has opened “These Are Not Your Grandmother’s Quilts: The Art Works of Marla Hattabaugh,” an exhibit that showcases colorful art quilts, at Chandler’s Vision Gallery. It runs through Jan. 7.
Hattabaugh’s quilts use hand-processed fabric and one-of-a-kind designs, she said.
“Quilting is a passion that I feel is important in my love of art and sensitivity to color and shape,” she said. “It’s something that I can explain to a person who is creative in whatever they love. Some love cooking, hiking, reading, writing, building houses, pots, gardens.”
Hattabaugh began her pastime when her daughter was in preschool, 43 years ago.
“Mother gave me a kit from a friend; my husband bet me I’d never finish it, so, of
course, I did,” she said.
Over the years, she cast aside traditional quilt patterns and settled on quilt art based on imagery and ideas. Her Giraffe series is fun and evocative of the graceful creatures.
“The Giraffe series started many years ago, when I decided I’d like to be taller than I am,” Hattabaugh states in her website, marlasquilts.com. “A teacher indicated the commercially printed fabrics I was using were trite, and not in keeping with art. To combat that, I made the whole quilt oriented around that shape.”
Her pieces have been on display in shows across the United States and Europe.
She described the creative process as follows: “Sometimes, I see a photo that inspires me to make something similar in my use of fabric. Then I search for the right colors to complete the project.
“Cutting shapes and sewing them together is the next step. There’s a wall with batting that I use to put up the parts. Once they are in what I think looks
See QUILTS on page 52
good, I start the sewing process. Adjustments often have to be made. There are ‘coping’ strips to connect parts that don’t fit the first time around.”
Hattabaugh offered words of advice to the would-be quilter: “Keep working,” she said. “Look at art, other quilts, pictures, postcards, nature. There’s inspiration everywhere.” She did add, however, that it does not pay the bills.
Her message to the world?
“When I’m not working on a quilt, I feel restless and at odds with the day. Because of humor and appreciation for the good in my life, I pass along those feelings,” she said.
Vision Gallery is at 10 E. Chicago St., Chandler. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. The collection will be on display to Jan. 7.
Details: visiongallery.org
Hattabaugh also serves as the juror for this year’s Art Quilt exhibit at Chandler Center for the Arts Gallery, appropriately titled “In Stitches: Seriously Humorous Art Quilts.” The exhibit runs to Jan. 7. You can see it at 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. The hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 5 p.m. Saturday.
Details: chandlercenter.org
New holiday musical puts Arizona center stage
BY JUSTIN FERRIS GETOUT EDITOR
Aquick glance through the traditional holiday repertoire—
“The Nutcracker,” “A Christmas Carol,” “Messiah,” traditional carols, big band holiday tunes, etc. —shows a decidedly European and coastal American influence.
Meanwhile, Arizona’s holiday claim to fame begins and ends with Irving Berlin’s classic tune, “White Christmas,” which a disputed legend says he wrote while staying at the Arizona Biltmore.
True, we do offer Frances Smith Cohn’s “Snow Queen,” but that non-holiday tales comes from the Danish Hans Christian Anderson.
We can also claim Alice Cooper’s Christmas Pudding rock show, which features the long-time Arizona resident, plus several native bands like the Gin Blossoms. But with a guillotine involved, the Halloween-like show is decidedly not kid friendly.
This year, however, Arizona gets a uniquely Southwest holiday event for the whole family. Nonprofit theater company Childsplay—known for its “Junie B. Jones” series and “Rock the Presidents”—performs the newly written musical “A Very Hairy Javelina Holiday.”
Not only does the show star Arizona animals, Childsplay’s own associate artistic director Jenny Millinger and music director Todd Hulet adapted it from a book called “A Very Hairy Christmas” by Arizona-based author Susan Lowell.
Childsplay previously wrote and performed another musical based on one of her books called “The Three Little Javelinas.”
The basic plot for “A Very Hairy Javelina Holiday” follows three javelinas, Josefina, Juan and José, as they prepare for Christmas. Josefina practices her Sugar Plum Fairy dance while Juan bakes cookies for Santa and José wishes for snow.
The arrival of Cousin Angelina, however, disrupts their holiday plans, and the plot thickens even more when the tricky coyote makes an appearance. What will our javelina heroes do? Will they survive the coyote, or—more dangerously—their relative?
As Childsplay aims this musical at children 5 and up, you can rest assured that everything works out for the best in the end.
According to Director Dwayne Hartford, “Everyone learns that there’s no such thing as a perfect holiday. And no matter how you celebrate, or whatever problems might occur, the holidays are so very special because you share them with your family and friends.”
That’s a holiday message people of all ages can appreciate.
If You Go:
Where: Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe.
When: Weekends through Dec. 24; Saturdays at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., Sundays at 1 p.m.; Additional shows Dec. 22-23 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Cost: $15-$26.
More info: 480-921-5700 or childsplayaz. org.
Artist brightens daughter’s day with napkin drawings, will have exhibit
Every day for four years, artist Jo Ann Briseño would pack her daughter’s lunch with something special: a napkin with a drawing of her daughter doing something she loves.
Every day, her daughter would bring the napkin back. Now, with 470 napkins total, Briseño is reentering the art exhibition world after 18 years and is showcasing the pieces at the Millet House in a show that runs from through Jan. 15. Her daughter, Maya, was born with Down syndrome. Ever since Maya entered kindergarten, Briseño has taken 10 to 15 minutes each morning to make her a drawing on her napkin. Each napkin is different and depicts Maya doing something that makes her happy.
“I began pulling things out of her life that were important milestones,” Briseño said.
“She is just so full of love,” Briseño said. “She is pure joy.”
Briseño’s first love was photography and she has always loved capturing the little things that people miss. However, she’s always had an interest in drawing.
“I love drawing with pens, it helps to conquer my fears of being perfect,” she said.
When she began drawing on a napkin every morning for Maya, it allowed her to practice her techniques while also creating something meaningful for her daughter.
Those milestones are often moments that people overlook. There are napkins with drawings of Maya drinking out of a cup or taking swim lessons.
“She’s developmentally delayed so we work hard at everything,” Briseño said. “We worked hard at crawling, walking, talking, eating and drinking out of a cup. Little things that people take for granted. Those things are hard work for us, but it’s worth it.”
There are also napkins which show Maya doing something extraordinary, such as floating in outer space as an astronaut or being a magician.
Briseño found out Maya had Down syndrome after she was born. In a moment, everything changed for her. She was hit with a wave of emotions, but she quickly realized Maya was a blessing in her life, she said.
“I think she actually has filled a big void in my life that I didn’t even know was missing,” Briseño said.
Once Maya was born, Briseño put her artistic life on hold and put her effort into raising her daughter.
“When I had Maya, I wanted to dedicate all of my time to her,” she said.
Originally she had been planning to devote at least the first three years purely to Maya, but even now at 9 years old her daughter still needs just as much attention. She has to take Maya to swim lessons, doctor appointments and therapy five times a week. However, to Briseño, it is all worth it.
Then she began sharing photos of the drawings on Facebook and her friends loved the pieces. The support she received gave Briseño confidence in her drawing skills.
Her friend, Sandy Andrews, had been trying to get Briseño to showcase her work in Andrews’ gallery for eight years.
“I love her work and I think she’s an amazing artist,” said Andrews, the owner of The Millet House.
The theme of the exhibit is “Happiness is…” and is about the joy within a child’s heart. The artists explored what makes kids happy or what personally brought them delight as a child.
Andrews said she was blown away by the dedication that Briseño showed by taking the time to draw something every morning that makes Maya smile.
“Imagine having a child and focusing every day on what makes that child happy,” Andrews said. “I mean, if all parents would do that I think it would be a different world.”
“Maybe people don’t know what Down syndrome is or maybe they can’t understand what she says,” Briseño said about Maya.
“Maybe she acts a little different so she’s kind of pushed off to the side. But she’s unique in her own way. She has value in this world.”
If You Go:
What: “Happiness Is…” exhibit.
When: Tuesdays through Sundays until Jan. 15, call or email for hours
Where: The Millet House Gallery, 440 W. 1st St. Mesa
More info: 602-920-8247, the.millet. house@gmail.com, themillethouse.com
MBA program at Arizona State University Leah is the daughter of Richard & Linda Rickel and reside in Tempe Shawn is the son of Jeff and Pat Burr and reside in Ahwatukee Shawn and Leah's love continues to
Education/ Schools
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GROWING TOGETHER: That's the motto of The Ahwatukee Community Garden Project Get your hands dirty while learning about desert gardening Join us every Sunday morning starting at 8 A M in the Garden at 4700 E Warner Rd north of the Farmers' Market acgarden org
In-Ahwatukee Toastmasters Club meets from 6:45-8am every Tuesday at Dignity Health Urgent Care Ahwatukee - Community Room (1st floor), 4545 E. Chandler Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85048. Guests welcome anytime! http://4873 toast mastersclubs org/
Classifieds Are Read Everyday! Put your ad HERE! Email Your Job Post to: class@times publications.com or Call 480898-6465
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PARENTS OF ADDICTED LOVED ONES
Are you affected by someone who is dealing with an addiction? If so, know that you are not alone and that the PAL (Parents of Addicted Loved Ones) group can help The group is available to provide education and support to anyone 18 years or older who is dealing with a friend or family member with an addiction See our local meeting list at palgroup org
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Democrats and Donuts
This monthly gathering is held the third Wednesday of each month from 8 - 9:30 a m at Denny s, 7400 West Chandler Boulevard, Chandler Sponsored by the Legislative District 18 Democrats, speakers cover current issues of interest Meetings are free and open to the public, breakfast may be purchased For more information, visit www.ld18democrats.org /meetings or email mariec9@q com
GROWING TOGETHER:
That's the motto of The Ahwatukee Community Garden Project Get your hands dirty while learning about desert gardening Join us every Sunday morning starting at 8 A M in the Garden at 4700 E Warner Rd north of the Farmers Market acgarden org
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THE AHWATUKEE TEA PARTY
General Meetings for Nov and Dec , 2016 have been cancelled at The Quality Inn, Ahw -----------
Watch For An Announcement on our New General Meeting Location, with Dates And Times in early January, 2017 -----------
Merry Christmas To All!
Email: info@tukee teaparty com
erly licensed as a contractor, disclose that fact on any form of advertising to the pub-
Again, this requirement is intended to make sure that the consumer is made aware of the unlicensed status of the individual or company
Contractors who advertise and do not disclose their unlicensed status are not eligible for the handyman's exception
Reference: http://www azroc gov/invest/licensed by la w html
As a consumer, being aware of the law is for your protection. You can check a business's ROC status at: http://www.azroc.gov/
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Aegis Hospice Grief/Loss Support Group We meet 6 pm on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month Legacy Funeral Home: 1722 N Banning St Mesa, Refreshments provided Contact: Rick Wesley 480-219-4790 rick@ aegishospice.com
GARDEN CLUB,
DESERT POINTE
Garden Club Meets the 1st Monday of every month at 9:30am @ Ahwatukee Recreation Center
NEW MEMBERS WELCOME
5001 E Cheyenne
Sept - May Only
Call Pat Faust 480-5886613
you can transform lives and reduce poverty contact Mary Hake at marysullivanhake @gmail com
your Heart and Home, Host an International Student! Please contact Pascale Dunton 602-980-4388 west@iseusa org west.iseusa.org
AHWATUKEE/CHANDLER Bosom Buddies We meet the 2nd Saturday of the month 10:00
AM-12:00 noon in the Conference Room at Dignity Health Urgent CareAhwatukee 4545 E Chandler Blvd Phoenix, AZ Please contact Deb Sidman: 602 460 9893 or Devon Pollard: 602 318 8462 See more at: http://www bosombuddies-az org/ At Bosom Buddies of AZ we support women of all ages and in all stages of breast cancer
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Social hour starts at 11am and lunch
Deadline for reserva-
(including coffee/tea
Ahwatukee Foothills Friends and Neighbors (AFFAN) is a women s organization, dedicated to cultivating friendships, and goodwill AFFAN promotes social, charitable and educational events all year long AFFAN holds monthly luncheon meetings with varied speakers We offer over 40 monthly activities including Book Clubs, Canasta, Bunco, Euchre, and Bridge Other monthly activities are Dining Out, Stitch and Chat, Explore Arizona, and Garden Club Significant others/ spouses can attend some events For more info contact Teresa Akrish Phone: 480-518-5788, teresaakrish@gmail com
Check our website at affanwomensclub com
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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS SENIOR ASSOCIATION (AFSA) will be celebrating an early Thanksgiving at their monthly meeting on Thursday, November 10, at the Sheraton Four Points Hotel located at 51st St and Elliot Rd in Phoenix Doors open at 11am and lunch is at noon Cost is $13 Open to all Seniors 55+ Deadline for reservations is Saturday, November 5 For further information, please contact Sue McCann at (480) 469-9388
The Ahwatukee Republican Women s Club (ARW)
General meetings are held on the 4th Tuesday of the month (unless otherwise noted) at the Four Points by Sheraton South Mountain, 10831 S 51st St Phoenix, 85044 Social Networking begins at 6:30 PM and the meeting (program) begins at 7:00 PM Additional info contact: ARWomen@aol com
Visit our website at www ahwatukee republican women com
