Issuu

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www.ahwatukee.com

KYRENE’S NEXT SUPERINTENDENT?

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VIRUS FIGHTER

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Wednesday, November 4, 2020

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@AhwatukeeFN

Courts turn up heat on 2 golf courses Judge slaps Club West board, stops any vote BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

iting “serious questions” surrounding the Club West HOA board’s assumption of the golf course’s land-use rights in secret, a Superior Court judge on Monday stopped it from asking homeowners to vote this year on an investor group’s plan to turn

the site into a park with houses. In a stinging criticism of the board’s assumption of the course’s declarant rights, Superior Court Judge Daniel Kiley granted the Club West Conservancy’s request for a preliminary injunction until a trial, tentatively set for February. That trial is on the Conservan-

Tiny dancer

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Lakes rebuld promise called ‘not credible’

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

hwatukee Lakes Golf Course owner Wilson Gee testi�ied Monday that he hopes to “build a better course” on the beleaguered site – but with a few conditions. But after listening to Gee’s testimony, Superior Court Judge Theo-

dore Campagnolo called him “not credible” and promised to impose “serious sanctions” on his company, ALCR, for not complying with a previous judge’s 2018 order to restore the course he closed in 2013. “I �ind Mr. Gee to continue to be not credible,” said Campagnolo, who found ALCR in contempt of

�� LAKES �� 18

Closure guidance changes likely won’t impact TU BY PAUL MARYNIAK AND WAYNE SCHUTSKY AFN STAFF

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Although only 10 months old, Cora Mae Dart is all dressed up in her ballet finery for a special class at Ahwatukee’s Dance Studio 111. To find out what she and other toddlers are doing there, Read the story on Page 25. (Pablo Robles/AFN Staff Writer)

LEARN LEAD ACHIEVE

tate health of�icials last month quietly revised their recommendations on how school districts should follow three COVID-19 metrics in deciding when to close campuses. But it is unlikely the state’s new recommendations will prompt Tempe Union High School District to open classrooms for �ive-day inclass learning in 2020. There was no speci�ic virus-related action

�� VIRUS �� 16

2021-22 Enrollment Begins January 12 www.kyrene.org/discover #discoverkyrene

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

“Price is what you pay; value is what you get.” – Warren Buffett, Chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway

Mike and Mary Jo Santistevan 480.703.4085 MaryJos@cox.net www.TeamSantistevan.com ©2018 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Information not verified or guaranteed. If your home is currently listed with a Broker, this is not intended as a solicitation.

NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

The Ahwatukee Foothills News is published every Wednesday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout Ahwatukee Foothills.

Times Media Group: 1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway, Suite 219 Tempe, Arizona, 85282 Main number: 480-898-6500 Advertising: 480-898-5624 Circulation service: 480-898-5641

PUBLISHER Steve T. Strickbine

VICE PRESIDENT Michael Hiatt

ADVERTISING STAFF National Advertising Director Zac Reynolds 480-898-5603 zac@ahwatukee.com

Advertising Sales Representatives: Karen Mays, 480-898-7909, kmays@ahwatukee.com Laura Meehan, 480-898-7904, lmeehan@ahwatukee.com

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Circulation Director:

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NEWS STAFF Executive Editor:

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Jim Walsh, 480-898-5639 jwalshe@ahwatukee.com Wayne Schutsky, 480-898-6533 wschutsky@timespublications.com Cecilla Chan. 480-898-5613, cchan@timespublications.com Ahwatukee Foothills News is distributed by AZ Integrated Media, a circulation service company owned by Times Media Group. The public is permitted one copy per reader. For further information regarding the circulation of this publication or others in the Times Media Group family of publications, please contact AZ Integrated Media at circ@ azintegratedmedia.com or 480-898-5641. For circulation services please contact Aaron Kolodny at aaron@ azintegatedmedia.com.

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To submit a letter, please include your full name. Our policy is not to run anonymous letters. Please keep the length to 300 words. Letters will be run on a space-available basis. Please send your contributions to pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com.

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The Ahwatukee Foothills News expresses its opinion. Opinions expressed in guest commentaries, perspectives, cartoons or letters to the editor are those of the author.

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Pandemic hits keep impacting the holiday season in Ahwatukee

50 YEARS OF TRUSTWORTHY SERVICE!

AFN NEWS STAFF

s the pandemic Grinch continues to eat away at some of Ahwatukee’s oldest Christmas season traditions, a group of volunteers has been working hard to keep alive the granddaddy of them all. The Festival of Lights along Chandler Boulevard between 24th Street and Desert Foothills Parkway is still a go this year, but the all-volunteer committee that has maintained the 25-year tradition needs the community’s help to ensure it will be around next year. And supporting it has become particularly important since yet another Ahwatukee holiday tradition has been canceled and another had to move out of the community this year. Millie’s Hallmark reportedly has canceled its annual festival the day after Thanksgiving that features a helicoptered Santa and Mrs. Claus descending on Ahwatukee Plaza during a morning filled with dancing exhibitions and presentations by local school musical groups. One of those groups includes members of the cast of Dance Studio 111 owner Kimberly Lewis’ Ahwatukee Nutcracker cast – which also has been impacted by the unrelenting coronavirus. Lewis learned that Tempe Union High School District will not rent her the Desert Vista auditorium for her 21st presentation of the holiday classic because of COVID-19 concerns. And after a long search, she found a venue in downtown Phoenix: the Madison Center for the Arts at 5601. N. 16th St., where the show will be at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Dec. 19 and 1 p.m. Dec. 20. The Festival of Lights Committee has already been forced to cancel its two major annual fundraisers, including the Thanksgiving weekend Kick-Off Party, which itself has been an Ahwatukee holiday tradition. While the Foothills and Club West HOAs annually pony up $75,000 for the lights, there’s a huge gap between those donations and the average $120,000 it costs for the lights and the electric bill. And the bill will be bigger next year because the committee must pay for repairs required by the city to the light display’s electrical infrastructure. “We are good to go with a few minor repairs,” said FOL Committee President Raphael Isaac, adding that Christmas Light Decorators, the Mesa company that sets up the display, “has been working with the city to take care of those minor repairs and should be starting to hang lights shortly.” Isaac also said that the company will be avoiding any saguaros that look weak, noting six along that part of Chandler Boulevard have already fallen victim to the extreme heat and lack of rain.

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There are several ways the community can help the lights burn next year. People can give a donation at folaz.com. The committee will give donors of $200 or more a yard identifying them as a sponsor. Sponsors who pony up $1,500 to $2,000 will get their name on a large ornament that will hang along Chandler Boulevard. All donations, no matter how large or small, will also be recognized in a scrolling recognition on the FOL Committee’s website as well as in ads the committee will run in January in AFN, Isaac said. “I think everybody needs this holiday season,” said Isaac, who hopes the community agrees that one way to celebrate it is with the Festival of Lights. Another way to help is participate in the The auditorium at the Madison Center of the Arts will host the Ahwatukee Nutcracker this year after its normal silent auction that begins online Nov. 11. venue at Desert Vista High School was unavailable because of pandemic-related concerns. (Special to AFN) In past years, the auction at the Wine Beer Fest has been a popular feature load- selections for $25 per play with all wines in choices when Tempe Union told her the ed with gifts of all kinds. People will be the game with retail values of at least $25 Thunder Theatre venue would not be available to browse items online and bid until value – and some up to $100 or more. able because of concerns about COVID-19: Nov. 28. The “White/Rose/Sparkling” Wine Pull cancel the show, as she did her summer Also scheduled this month at folaz.com ufeatures ury Vinyl for $20 each for bottles musical this year or find another venue. gs ~ Luxselections rea R worth A Coun More informais the wine pull, another popular feature at least that~much. “I immediately got on the phone and m tert Custo ~ s r e at the Wine Beer Fest. tion will be posted soon. started calling other school districts,” o e ~ Wood ~ Laminate ~ Show ps The “Reds” Wine Pull will feature random Meanwhile, Lewis said that she faced two Lewis said. “I knew Chandler School Disgs ~ Luxur y Vinyl ~ Area Ru Coun tom s u tert C ~ Tile s~ ops ~ Wood ~ Laminate ~ Shower L u ~ x s u g r u y Vinyl ~ Ca Area R C m rpe o o t u s ~ Luxury Vinntyelr Cus C a t ~ Ti Area Rug t~opCou rpe le ~ Wood ~ Laminate ~ Showers ~ s nte stom u C t~T ~ rtop s r e w ile ~ Wo o s od ~ Laminate ~ Sh Ca

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trict was renting theaters but as I soon found out, every theater in town was booked and there is a waiting line to get a theater rental.” “Theaters sign contracts years in advance,” she explained. “I found smaller theaters but they did not have the rigging and fly system for backdrops and room for props to bring the magic of the Nutcracker to the stage.” Then she called Madison, a two-yearold venue that Lewis called “a first-class state-of-the-art theater. This theater is gorgeous.” But the news was bleak: Madison was booked for the mid-December weekend she needed it. “I cannot tell you how many phone calls and hotel ballrooms and parks I contacted and how many miles I put on my car driving all over the Valley to find a venue for our Nutcracker,” Lewis said. Last week, Lewis got good news: “The company that had rented Madison the weekend I needed had backed out and my weekend dates were open and available if I still wanted the theater.” “I immediately got in my car and drove

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to the theater and within the hour, a contract was signed.” Lewis said, once the contract was signed, “I did begin to cry because I knew our Nutcracker would go on and we would not have to cancel another show.” The theater will handle all ticket sales and will follow all health protocols, including socially distant seating. Families will be able to purchase tickets to sit together and the theater ropes off other seats. “This theater is triple the cost that we have in our budget but I am hoping our Ahwatukee Foothills Community will continue to support us and make the drive to the theater to support our children who have been in rehearsals since August to bring this show to life,” Lewis said. “We need our community’s support and we need them to please come see the magic of the Nutcracker this holiday season, she added, noting the theater is 19mile drive from Ahwatukee. It is located off Loop 51 Piestewa Freeway and Missouri Avenue. Lewis already knows what she wants under her tree: the same feeling of accom-

plishment she has every December after another Nutcracker production. “As long as we are able to pay our theater rental and tech crew this year,” she said, “that’s all I want for a Christmas.” Information: To help the Festival of Lights: Folaz.com. The Madison has not yet listed Ahwatukee Nutcracker but check its site for more details: themadison.org. 

Open for help

GOT NEWS? Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@ timespublications.com

Jennifer Armer, right, stands with husband Matt Armer and Rebecca McElvea in front of the new thrift store that the Armer Foundation for Kids opened last week at 9830 S. 51st St., Ahwatukee, Ste. A128, as another way of raising funds to help families with children stricken by diseases that carry big medical costs. Information: armerfoundation.org. (Pablo Robles/AFN Staff Photographer)

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Five bedroom, 4 bathroom, 4,556 sf single level home in a cul de sac on nearly a 1 acre preserve lot! East facing back yard! The kitchen has an abundance of granite slab counter space, a center island with prep sink, breakfast bar, Subzero refrigerator, double ovens, Jennair smooth surface cook tops with grill, walk in pantry, large casual dining area, and an R/O system. Open kitchen family room floor plan! The family room is enormous with a two way fireplace with stone surrounds and a large wet bar with bar seating. A bonus/game room ( the perfect space for a pool table) is on the other side of the two way fireplace. Exit the family to the sprawling resort style back yard. Extensive land and hardscape, sparkling pebble tec pool and spa, elevated fireplace with stone surrounds and seating area, outdoor kitchen with BBQ, burner and beverage fridge, and a separate built in draft beer system. Master bathroom has a dual sink vanity with granite slab top, separate shower and Jacuzzi tub with granite surrounds and large walk in closet with custom built - ins. 8’ solid core doors. Temperature controlled wine cellar. All three AC’s are approximately five years old. Three car garage has a mini split and an epoxy floor coating. RV Gate. Extra slab parking in front and behind the RV gate (slab parking for approximately 8 in the front depending on vehicle size and a single slab behind the gate.)

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Complete 2017 remodel! 2017 roof and HVAC unit. All new electrical, new 200amp service panel and LED lighting throughout (2017.) All new Pella windows and doors. Solid core interior doors throughout. Kitchen boasts a commercial Dacor appliance package. 18’’ dual zone wine and beverage center built in to the 13.5’ island with Italian stone waterfall countertop. Quartz kitchen countertops. Deluxe cabinet package with soft closers, full extension rollouts, auto led interior cabinet lighting, 110 electric inside island cabinets for hidden appliances. Extravagant wet bar with undermount sink, beverage refrigerator, custom cabinetry with glass display and LED interior lighting. 60” x 18” open face gas fireplace in family room with full wall stone surrounds. Extensive millwork throughout. All exterior and interior windows and doors are cased and moulded. Wainscotting throughout the interior. Smooth plaster wall finish throughout. Four bedrooms and three bathrooms. Two master bathrooms. Second master makes a great guest suite. Master 2 has a large sitting area / living room with French doors to the exterior. Both master suites exit to the back yard. Master bedrooms are new construction (2017.) Bathrooms are finished in Carerra marble, top grade Kohler sinks and toilets, custom glass shower door enclosures; Danze plumbing fixtures throughout. The resort style back yard has expansive trex style decking, a sparkling 2018 pool finished entirely in ceramic penny tile. Deluxe low maintenance landscape. R - 48 attic insulation. The detached, side entry garage is new construction (2017.) Driveway in the front and a two car driveway at the garage. Check out the photos at https://bit.ly/2TEHrDK

Five New Homes - 1.25 Acres Each Listed for

$223,500 - 227,500

Two ﬂoor plans to choose from; 1,387 sf or 1,493 sf. Both have 3 beds, 2 baths and split master ﬂoor plans. East facing back yards! Breathtaking 360 degree views of the Superstition and San Tan Mountains. Water to the property! (no well!) Kitchens boast maple cabinetry, new appliances including refrigerators. Open kitchen - family room concept. Master bathrooms are upgraded with dual sinks. 2" window blinds. Enjoy the rural lifestyle while still being just a few minutes from all of the amenities in San Tan Valley and Queen Creek!

Circle Mountain Land (2 parcels) Listed for

$290,000 each

Two parcels; 4.7 acres each. Residential Acreage abutting Pyramid Peak and state trust land. Elevated property, away from ﬂood zones. Build a grand estate or subdivide a small community! Beautiful Northeastern views of New River Mesa and surrounding mountains. Zoning requires at least 1 acre per home. 15-20 minutes from Anthem and Cave Creek and still only 45 minutes from Sky Harbor 9.4 acres total available (10 acres minus 40 foot road easement along Northern edge)

San Tan Valley Land Listed for

$195,000

Great development opportunity or horse property! 8.35 acre parcel in San Tan Valley. Spectacular panoramic mountain views! No HOA. Property can be split (if desired) into ﬁve 1.67 acre parcels. Miles of state trust land all around. Owner is willing to facilitate a minor land division. In the country but has nearby emergency services, hospital, schools, and shopping.

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Single internal candidate emerges for Kyrene superintendent AFN NEWS STAFF

he Kyrene Governing Board this week will interview the single internal candidate for the district’s next superintendent – Assistant Superintendent Laura Toenjes. The district in an announcement last week said the board would interview Toenjes, a Chandler resident, this week. Barring any unforeseen developments, it’s likely the board this month will vote for Toenjes – who worked with retiring Superintendent Dr. Jan Vesely in Tucson before Vesely hired her after she was named superintendent in 2016. Toenjes’ emergence as the likely board choice for Kyrene’s next superintendent is no surprise. In its announcement, the district noted that the board “has set goals of stability and consistency in the selection of our district’s next superintendent.” Promising that “Toenjes will be subject to the full, rigorous process,” the district also said the board sought “to identify candidates who are familiar with the Kyrene

Kyrene Assistant Superintendent Laura Toenjes is the only internal candidate that has emerged in the Governing Board’s search for a successor to retiring Superintendent Dr. Jan Vesely. (AFN ﬁle photo)

vision, mission, culture and community, as well as the district’s strategic plan.” In her resume, Toenjes describes herself as a “student-centered and purpose-driven leader with diverse experience in all levels of the public education system pro-

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background and strong knowledge of supporting organizational systems with continuous improvement, but more importantly because of a keen ability to effectively blend the big-picture with strategic actions to inspire, build trust and achieve growth.” Toenjes began her 26 years in education as a teacher, first in Gilbert from 19942000 and then in the Stanfield School District. From there, she held positions with the Maricopa County Superintendent’s Office for six months, then an elementary principal for a year in Union Elementary School District in Tolleson. She also worked two separate stints in the state Department of Education – including deputy associate superintendent for school improvement from 2011-15 – before she landed a job as director of school improvement in Sunnyside Unified School District, the same Tucson district where Vesely had been assistant superintendent. Before Vesely hired her shortly after

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becoming superintendent in Kyrene, Tjoenes commuted 100 miles a day between Chandler and Tucson. In an interview with AFN shortly after her hiring, the Gilbert native said she worked closely with Vesely when she was in the state Education Department, stating, “I was very impressed with her leadership.” Together at Sunnyside, Vesely and Toenjes helped four district schools improve test scores and strengthen teacher’s support systems through the University of Virginia’s School Turnaround Program. “When I knew Jan had been named Kyrene Superintendent and then saw the posting for assistant superintendent, I knew I had to pursue that,” said Toenjes, who was raised in Gilbert and is a Gilbert High School alumna. “I’m an East Valley girl and I’ve always been very impressed with the Kyrene School District, which has always had that reputation of excellence. So, I’m thrilled to be a part of this team,” said Toenjes, whose two sons attended Hamilton High back then. Like Vesely, Toenjes said she has high

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

standards for herself, educators and students, and a commitment to do what it takes to ensure their greatest chance for success. “I truly believe in the power of education and I have a passion for serving and always leaving whatever and whomever, including myself, better than the day before,” she said. Toenjes received her B.A. in Communications from the University of Arizona and earned two master’s degrees from Northern Arizona University -- one in elementary education and the other in administration and supervision with a minor in curriculum and instruction. “I believe my role as a leader is to foster a district-wide work environment that’s student-focused and results-oriented, placing priority on student learning and performance,” she said in 2016. Once she was hired by Vesely, Tjoenes was put in charge of academic services, working to develop a responsive organization, an inclusive culture, recruiting high-quality talent, developing high-performing students and ensuring collective and inclusive governance, according to her resume. And her resume indicates she worked

closely with Vesely in virtually all those areas. Though the Kyrene Governing Board is assured of a major change in composition because two members are leaving and only Michelle Fahy is seeking one of three seats up for grabs in Tuesday’s election, none of the candidates had objections to the current board choosing the district’s next chief executive. A survey of parents, employees and community members conducted by the district after Vesely announced her retirement showed that respondents most wanted someone who has operational management and can recruit high-quality staff, manage finances and use up-to-date technology. The survey also showed a strong desire for someone who can develop community relationships and effectively communicate “district needs and decisions in a transparent manner.” Slightly fewer respondents – 69 percent – put equity in access to programs and rigorous instruction as important qualities in the next superintendent while slightly more than half said considering other opinions and alternative views in decision-making was important.

The survey – which asked six questions – drew the most responses from families with 73 percent of 2,051 participants. Another 31 percent of respondents comprised staff and 9 percent other community members. Asked to rank the district’s top three strengths, results showed, in order, teacher quality, reputation for high achievement and academic programs were the ones most frequently cited by respondents. Three-quarters of the respondents listed finding and retaining high-quality staff as the most critical issue facing the district. Improving academic achievement for all students and preparing kids for the next grade level were ranked second and third, respectively. The board has signaled that it wants to have a new superintendent in place before Thanksgiving. The district’s announcement said the board will invite employees who participated in staff feedback forums “to return for candid conversations with Ms. Toenjes.” “At the end of this process, if the board does not move forward with an offer, we will consider other options, which may include conducting an external search,” the district said. 

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

Kyrene sees $100M benefit in land lease BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

yrene school officials say the district could yield as much as $100 million over the next 75 years from leasing a 28-acre parcel of land along the I-10 between Chandler Boulevard and Ray Road in Ahwatukee. The Governing Board on Oct. 27 voted unanimously to begin lease negotiations with ViaWest Group, a Phoenix commercial real estate investment group. Board President Michael Myrick abstained because he is in the commercial real estate investment business. “I’ve been hoping to get this done for the largest part of my tenure,” said John King, who is leaving the board after eight years. The district has been studying what to do with the land off and on for years since voters gave it the go ahead in 2013 to sell or lease it. In 2018, the district then began working with a broker to sell it. But General Council Jordan Ellel said that after careful study, it became clear that leasing the land would be more advantageous for the district because it provided a steady revenue stream for multiple years and Kyrene would get the land back at the end of the lease period. The lease also may allow the district to use the rent for operations instead of capital expenditures such as improvements to campuses. State law generally requires school districts to use proceeds from a land sale for capital expenditures. Tempe Union deposited $23 million into its capital fund from the sale of land it owned in Ahwatukee several years ago. Ellel said he is talking with the state Attorney General’s office to determine if there is more flexibility with a lease. “One thing that the board has really strived for and will continue to look for is the most advantageous situation giving the greatest flexibility for the use of those funds and maximizing the opportunity,” he said. According to the letter of intent approved by the board, whoever leases the land would pay nothing in the first year, $240,000 the second and $800,000 in the third year for the next three years. After three years at $800,000 the rent

Ellel noted that this is the last piece of undeveloped land owned by the district so that flexibility providing by getting the parcel back in the future could be particularly advantageous. He also said he hopes to present a lease to the board for its approval before the end of the year, meaning the lease would be in place when a newly constituted board takes over in January. Two years ago, former Kyrene board member Russ Robb, a real estate expert himself, told the board that leasing made more sense because of the steady revenue stream it The area bordered in red is the parcel that Kyrene plans to lease to a developer provided. that intends to build three warehouses. (Kyrene School District) He acknowledged would be increased every five years by that any sale or lease had advantages and 12.5 percent if the tenant pays no prop- disadvantages to both. “There are lots of complexities in a erty taxes or by 7.5 percent if the tenant pays taxes. The land would then be sub- ground lease,” Robb said. “It’s slightly riskier than a sale ject to a reappraisbecause you are real in the 23rd year of the lease. One thing that the board lying on someone to make a payment The letter of inhas really strived for and will year after year after tent indicates that year … but it could a business park continue to look for is the be very advantawith three indusmost advantageous situation geous as opposed to trial buildings will be built on the giving the greatest flexibility a sale.” When asked at parcel, similar to a development that for the use of those funds and that meeting about ViaWest has on the maximizing the opportunity the impact of adverse neighborChandler side of – Jordan Ellel hood reaction to I-10 parallel to the whatever ends up parcel. being built on the Myrick noted that the fact the district would get the land parcel, Robb told the board, “I think your back after the lease period means future motivation is likely to be less philanthropschool boards can determine whether to ic. I think you probably need the revenue “sell or develop the land, depending on the more than positive publicity.” The land was originally purchased by district’s needs at that time.”

the district in the 1990s as a possible site for a school. Instead, Kyrene del Milenio in Ahwatukee was built in 2000. In an unrelated action last week, the board also unanimously approved spending $100,000 to basically rent seven school bus drivers through the end of the current semester because the district has been unable to find qualified drivers to man all its routes. The contract with a company called First Student was approved under a state law exemption from the required bidding process in the case of emergencies. Although there was no discussion of the action, an administration memo to the board said, “Transportation was unable to find bus drivers through employment measures, therefore we sought the immediate assistance from a third-party company to provide drivers temporarily to not disrupt transportation services provided for students. “With middle school students returning on October 13th, there was not adequate time to competitively solicit services with the State of Arizona procurement guidelines, therefore Governing Board approval of this emergency procurement request will allow the district to temporarily obtain seven bus drivers from First Student Inc. “The district currently has 16 bus routes unfilled vacancies due to driver resignations for COVID-19 related reasons. First Student Inc. is the only vendor who had temporary bus drivers readily available with fingerprint clearance cards who could begin working when middle schools re-opened,” the memo added. Finding enough bus drivers has been a problem for many school districts across the state and has been worsened by the pandemic, which prompted many drivers to quit. A bus driver in Gilbert Public Schools recently died of COVID-19, but that district has not given any details on whether he contracted the virus on the job.

GOT NEWS? Contact Paul Maryniak at

480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@ timespublications.com

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VIRUS from page 1

item on the agenda for Tempe Union Governing Board’s meeting tonight, Nov. 4. Noting the changes were to recommendations on when schools should revert to online learning, Tempe Union spokesman Megan Sterling said, “It doesn’t have any bearing on moving forard to a five day model. “We will continue to follow the guidelines as they are provided by the state and county and right now both entities indicate that a hybrid model is the reecommendation for our area,” Sterling said. Kyrene Superintendent Dr. Jan Vesely was not aware that the state’s guidance had changed when she addressed the board Oct. 27, district spokeswoman Erin Helm said. Both the Arizona School Boards Association and Arizona School Administrators said they were neither consulted before the changes nor told of them ahead of their release. The association also stressed final decisions on closing campuses remain with local boards and local district administrators. Up until now, districts were advised to consider online learning if only one of three benchmarks was in the “red” category, signifying significant COVID-19 spread. Those benchmarks include number of COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people, the percent of new positive test results and percentage of hospital visits by people exhibiting COVID-like symptoms. But the state Department of Health Services changed that recommendation, advising a return to virtual learning should be considered only if all three metrics fall into the substantial range. Tempe Union Superintendent Dr. Kevin Mendivil and the Governing Board have maintained that a five-day in-class instruction is not safe because at least one of its three benchmarks has remained in the yellow category, which signifies moderate virus spread. While some Tempe Union schools have been in ZIP codes with lower COVID-19 levels than others, the board and administration also have rejected different learning formats for different campuses. They said principals agree on a uniform approach to in-person learning. Tempe Union reopened campuses partially Oct. 13, splitting student bodies into two groups with one group allowed in classrooms Mondays and Tuesdays and

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

the other on Thursdays and Fridays. Many districts – including Chandler, Mesa and Gilbert, all among Arizona’s four largest districts – have gone to a full five-day return to classrooms. The state’s change comes amid an uptick in COVID-19 cases in Maricopa County and across Arizona and much of State health director Dr. Cara Christ last week explained the rationale behind the revision of its guidance for school districts on campus closures while Gov. Doug the nation – though Ducey looked on. (Special to AFN) county data for Ahwatukee, Kyrene and Tempe Union have partial reopening of campuses, board remained relatively stable through mid- member Andres Barraza of Tempe even October. Two of three benchmarks were in pressed for only one day a week of in-perthe minimal spread category in Ahwatukee son learning – a proposal that Superintendent Dr. Kevin Mendivil called unworkable. and the third showing moderate spread. Data released by the county on Oct. 29 – Sterling said, “If all three metrics were in the green and the dashboards two days after the Kyrene meeting – show indicated that it was safe to go back to Ahwatukee’s three ZIP codes remain well full-time school, that would be a differ- within the moderate range. In fact, cases ent story. It does look like we will con- per 100,000 fell by half, from 122 to 61, tinue to be in the yellow or hybrid, as all in 85045 from Oct. 4-10 to Oct. 11-17. three metrics have seen increases over The data are 12 days old when the county posts them. the past two weeks.” On a district level, benchmarks for During last week’s Kyrene board meeting, Vesely expressed concern about the Kyrene changed only slightly from those Vesely was able to show the board – and Kyrene’s COVID-19 metrics. She said despite an uptick in one of none approached anywhere near a red the three metrics – cases per 100,000 – level. Two metrics remained in the ministressed that the district overall remained mal virus spread category and cases per 100,000 had declined. in the moderate category. The readings for Tempe Union also re“Our metrics support five days of in-person learning, but we are concerned about mained last week within the minimal spread category in two benchmarks while this trend,” she said. “If any category falls into the red cat- cases per 100,000 were dropping but still egory or substantial spread category, that within the moderate category. Both Kyrene and Tempe Union now will generate an overall red rating for our district,” she also said. “If this rating is maintain dashboards on their websites maintained for two consecutive weeks, showing the number of COVID-19 cases at this could warrant moving into a remote each school. Tempe Union’s dashboard reported that online learning modality.” Maricopa County health officials now out of more than 14,500 staff and students, say if one of the three benchmarks falls there were 16 cases it was aware of – ininto red, a district should confer with cluding nine students and seven staff. Most them and that closure is advised only if all of those cases were at Desert Vista High, three benchmarks are in the red category with six, and Mountain Pointe, with five. Kyrene’s dashboard showed 13 cases for two consecutive weeks. Tempe Union has been far more con- – 12 students and one staffer – out of servative even though the district overall 18,000 students and employees in the – and most individual ZIP codes within its district. Monte Vista Elementary had the boundaries – have been in the yellow cat- most with three cases. The state Department of Health Services egory, signifying moderate spread. During several meetings leading to the quietly changed its voluntary guidelines

on Oct. 22, belatedly notifying county health officials. After media reports emerged last week about those changes, state health director Dr. Cara Christ wrote a blog that said districts should work with local health officials if ZIP codes within their boundaries reached red levels in all three benchmarks. Will Humble, executive director of Arizona Public Health Association and former state health director, was critical of the change, arguing it puts too much weight on the “COVID-like symptoms” metric. “I do still think they’re good metrics, especially the percent positivity and the number of cases per 100,000. Those are solid metrics,” Humble said. “I’ve always been less enthusiastic about that third metric, which is COVID-like illness reported by hospitals because it’s what we call it in the business ‘syndromic surveillance.’” Humble said that metric is subjective and voluntarily reported, making a poor indicator for public health decisions. “I didn’t have a problem with the way the guidance was written before because you could have two out of the three indicators – meaning the two good indicators regardless of what happened with the bad indicator – and once you got into the red zone, then you need to start thinking about going back to a virtual instruction,” Humble said. Humble continued, “But now when you say…you should include the third metric, which is a flimsy metric, then you’re putting (Governing Boards) in the position of not understanding that two of the three metrics are good and one is bad, and they may start to change their decisions based on a metric that is poor.” Humble agreed that local control was appropriate but still had concerns about how the guideline change would impact local decision makers. “Somebody who’s on a governing board or even a superintendent is unlikely to understand that COVID-like illness reports from hospitals is not a solid indicator; yet they will be making recommendations to their boards thinking that it’s equal importance to these other two indicators.” Exactly why the department changed its guidelines – which could potentially allow many schools to stay open that might have closed under the old guidance – is the subject of some debate.

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WEST from page 1

cy’s assertion that any plan to use the site for anything else but golf must have 75 percent of homeowners approve it. The judge said he “does not doubt the board acted with good intentions” when it assumed the course’s declarant rights. But he suggested that what the board came up with for the course was at odds with the Master Declaration that governs land use for the rest of Club West. He noted that the course’s declarant rights can be changed in a way that stands in sharp contrast to the 75 percent approval required for any land use changes within the rest of the community. He also cited the secret meetings the board held to assume the course’s declarant rights and come up with a process for changing them. Those actions, Kiley said, “are not the types of actions that may be properly taken in executive session.” In executive session, the board determined only 31 percent of Club West’s 2,600 homeowners needed to vote on any

LAKES from page 1

court in August for not complying with Judge John Hannah’s 2018 order to restore the 18-hole executive course. “Judge Hannah found him not credible. I found him not credible in August. And I again find him not credible.” Campagnolo said he would issue a written order on the sanctions, which could total millions. The hearing was the latest episode in the long-running lawsuit that Lakes homeowners Eileen Breslin and Linda Swain filed in 2014 against a previous company, Bixby Village. Gee was the managing partner in Bixby Village and is the managing partner in ALCR, which bought the course from Bixby. Attorney Tim Barnes, who is representing Swain and Breslin, has asked the judge for a $2 million sanction, which would be held by the court until ALCR builds the golf course. In urging a harsh penalty for ALCR, Barnes told Campagnolo that Gee had “persecuted the community by systematically degrading” the golf course. He noted that Gee had dismantled the irrigation system that fed the course with non-potable water, turning it “into a moonscape.”

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

changes to the use of the golf course site and that a simple majority of that 31 percent would carry the day. Although the judge has yet to rule on the HOA board’s request for a dismissal of the Conservancy’s suit, his 11-page order suggests that effort is going nowhere. Kiley’s ruling was a victory for the Conservancy, a group of homeowners who organized the nonprofit after a group of four investors that incorporated as The Edge offered to restore the course if it could sell parts of it to Taylor Morrison for construction of 164 homes. The Conservancy said that plan for single- and two-story homes would ruin the views and devastate the property values of the 347 homeowners who paid premium lot prices to have homes along the perimeter of the golf course. The Edge dropped that plan after Taylor Morrison pulled out of the deal. With a related entity called Community Land Solutions, the Edge – which has tentatively bought the course from owner Wilson Gee for $750,000 – has been planning to build The Park at Club West.

He also said Gee’s promise to build a course could not be trusted and said it could take longer than a year to make good on it even if all Gee’s conditions were met. Gee explained the complicated deal this way: Suntereo had signed an agreement to buy 10 acres for $10 million, which would be held in escrow for construction of the course. The course would cost $5 million to $6 million, netting Gee a profit of around $4 million. In the meantime, Suntereo would need at least six months to secure a homeowners’ vote on the care facility and obtain the necessary city building approvals. Gee said approval of the care center would need 50 percent of the Lakes’ approximate 6,400 homeowners plus one. Barnes also noted that Suntereo would need approval from the Maricopa County Flood Control District since the five lakes that once existed on the course had controlled runoff from South Mountain during major storms. Gee said he offered to take former Chandler golf pro Brad Butler’s deal to buy the course for $1 million as long as he agreed that Suntereo could buy the 10 acres. He said Butler he made that offer in late October and never heard from Butler. Gee said he had already retained the services of an internationally renowned

However, it has signaled it still needs to sell parts of the site to a homebuilder to finance development of the park. Club West HOA board President Mike Hinz testified before Kiley two weeks ago that the board had nothing on its agenda this month related a presentation by The Edge and Community Land Solutions on its long-awaited plan. But CLS indicated in a timeline published online that it expected to make a presentation at the HOA board’s Nov. 21 meeting. It also had a homeowners vote in that timeline, but no date attached to it. While Kiley’s order does not stop a presentation, it does stop the board from voting on whether to approve The Edge’s plan for a community vote. It also stops the board from scheduling a homeowners’ vote. In his order, Kiley said the Conservancy had met its burden of showing that only a preliminary injunction could stop the HOA board from moving on any Edge plan. Noting that Hinz said there was nothing before the board at this time, the judge said the HOA “has identified no hardship

golf course designer who agreed to design a golf course that could compete economically with other Valley courses. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity – to actually build a truly great golf course with a great architect,” Gee testified. “This is something I want to do,” he continued. “I know that there’s a lot of problems with my relationship with the community and I’m sure they want me out of there.” “But if I really had a choice, I would rather stay in the field and actually be able to build the golf course and I would invite Mrs. Swain to be part of the committee that would build it so she would know exactly what we are building. We would be very open with the community.” Gee also disclosed that ALCR has cut a deal with the Maricopa County Assessor’s Office that would save him more than $1 million in back taxes and penalties that were assessed when the course ceased to be available for golf. State law entitles golf course to a big property tax break but carries penalties when a course ceases to be operated for golf. Gee said the penalties total $2.7 million, but that the Assessor’s Office cut the total owed to $1.3 – providing the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors approves it. He also said the deal covers two years of back taxes, which appear to total more

at all that it would suffer if the requested injunction was granted.” “What hardship could the Association suffer as a result of being enjoined from doing something that the Association states it has no plans to do anyway?” Kiley wrote. Kiley also agreed that the Conservancy met its burden of showing that it faced “a substantial risk of irreparable injury resulting from the diminution in the value of” its members’ home values if houses are allowed before a trial can determine if the Conservancy’s complaint is substantiated. The judge also appeared, for now anyway, to agree with the Conservancy’s basic argument that will be hashed out at the February trial. Kiley said conceded that the Master Declaration for Club West as a whole “gives notice that the golf course may cease operating on the golf course property.” But he added, “that is not the same as giving notice that the golf course property may be redeveloped for other non-golf uses. Closing a golf course is not the same as building houses on it.” 

than $250,000. Gee testified that the course he planned would not be the same as the one he closed but would be better. “It needs to be something that’s economically viable or we’ll be in the same spot where we are now – not able to pay the bills,” he said, recalling how he closed the course in 2013 because it was operating in the red almost from the time that he bought it in 2006. Barnes noted that throughout the time it would take for Suntereo to get homeowner approval and the necessary permits, nothing would be happening on the course. Gee’s lawyer, Daniel Maynard, accused Barnes making personal attacks on Gee and insisted that the 2018 order to rebuild a golf course was unclear. “If you impose a sanction they are asking, it’s never going to be built,” Maynard told the judge. “It has to be reasonable.” Despite Maynard’s argument, Campagnolo declared, “all the issues about restoration (and) operation have been decided and rearguing them does not help the situation where I have to be right now.” He also told Gee the sanctions that he will issue a written order giving Gee “the key to avoid those sanctions” but that if ALCR does not use that key, “those sanctions will be imposed.” 

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

Computer flaw hid some board candidates’ statements AFN NEWS STAFF

computer flaw in the County Recorder’s online site for campaign contributions, hid statements filed by all five Kyrene Governing Board candidates and two hopefuls for the Tempe Union board. The flaw came to AFN’s attention after one of the candidates contacted the newspaper about the missing data. Once resolved, the site showed that while Tempe Union board President Berdetta Hodge of Tempe had the largest war chest with $23,365, the second largest total of contributions raised in the campaign was by Chandler teacher Sarah James with $14,321. She was followed by Ahwatukee lawyer Don Fletcher, who raised $10,631 – about a

third of it in personal loans to his campaign. Fletcher edged out Arizona State University sophomore and 2019 Desert Vista grad Armando Montero’s $9,659; Tempe Realtor Lori Bastian’s $6.853; Tempe resident and retired APS research analyst Sandy Lowe’s $2,213; Tempe Elementary teacher Paige Reesor’s $2,901; and Tempe commercial real estate broker Michael Myrick’s $126. In the Kyrene race, Tempe resident Fahy raised the least among the five candidates with $1,685, according to reports filed with the County Recorder. The candidate who has raised the most in the Kyrene contest is Wanda Kolomyjec, an Ahwatukee resident and ASU instructor and community organizer. Kolomyjec reported $8,851 in donations while not far behind is Trine Nelson of Ah-

watukee, a curriculum manager for ASU’s W.P. Carey School of Business who reported a war chest totaling $8,515. Ivan Alfaro of Tempe, executive director of a national learning company, reported $6,999 in donations while Margaret Wright, a Tempe resident and an adjunct professor of biology at Paradise Valley Community College, reported $7,513 in contributions to her campaign. None of the candidates in the Kyrene and Tempe Union races, however, came close to the amount raised by Ahwatukee resident and longtime educator Dr. Linda Thor in her quest for reelection to the Maricopa County Community College District Governing Board. Thor was facing a challenge by Shelli Boggs of Queen Creek. Boggs, a former member of the East Valley Institute of

Technology Governing Board, has gained notoriety for posing on social media with an assault rifle. Thor reported raising a whopping $50,314 while Boggs reported zero. Voters in at least a portion of Ahwatukee also were deciding on another community college district board race: one between incumbent Laurin Hendrix and Jacqueline Smith, vice president of the ASU Foundation. Hendrix, a former legislator, won a twoyear seat on the Gilbert Town Council in August and is allowed to hold a seat on the community college board. Hendrix did not file a report, indicating he did not raise enough to meet the $1,200 minimum threshold for filing a campaign finance statement, while Smith reported $40,195 in donations and spending totaling $23,863. 

Monte Vista sign stolen within a day after hanging AFN NEWS STAFF

heartless thief or group of thieves stole a banner from Kyrene Monte Vista within 24 hours have it had been hung outside the Ahwatukee school. “We have checked with Kyrene Monte Vista teachers and staff to determine if the ties came loose and it was taken into the school. It was not,” the PTO stated on it Facebook page after the Oct. 25 theft. The PTO, which only recently recovered from an embezzlement of more than $61,000 from its treasury is asking the thief or thieves to return the banner no questions asked. In the meantime, security footage is being reviewed to find any possible leads to

VIRUS from page 16

In a press conference on Oct. 29, Gov. Doug Ducey said the changes were made “at the request of public education leaders in coordination with public health officials.” But shortly after that statement, Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman took to Twitter and stated, “The Arizona Department of Education did not request or recommend any changes to the AZDHS school benchmarks.” Chris Kotterman, lobbyist for the Arizona School Boards Association, said the

the suspects. The smiley face banner was paid for with money the PTO earned through its various fundraising efforts – which, as with most such activities this year by other nonprofits has been hampered by COVID-19-related restrictions. “We worked with a local Ahwatukee business PostNet to support them and they supported us with a discounted rate” on the banner, the PTO stated. “Most importantly, this banner was meant to bring joy to our students, teachers, staff and community during these uncertain times.” The banner is 6’x6’ and has a lightly stamped “KMV PTO” in the bottom left corner with a paw print. 

way board members around the state found out about it was through the media. “We weren’t consulted on it,’’ he said. “We don’t like it when fundamental policy changes that impact the operation of public schools are not communicated clearly.’’ Kotterman said school board members “absolutely’’ see the change as having political overtones, stating, “There definitely are groups out there that believe that schools should be open and are pressuring their local governing boards to just reopen the schools and everything will be fine if only vulnerable people stay home

Monte Vista Elementary School’s PTO posted a photo of the missing sign on social media, circling it in red as it pleaded for its return. (Facebook)

and all that sort of stuff,’’ he said. Christ wrote that her department has been working on the changes since Oct. 2 after hearing concerns from the members of its Schools Reopening Workgroup, which includes representatives from county health departments and the Department of Education. But ADHS still has not answered why it did not announce the change more publicly. An ADHS spokesman did not respond when asked how the department informed the public of the change, directing AFN to Christ’s blog post. That post only states that ADHS in-

formed members of the Schools Reopening Workgroup on Oct. 16. Ducey said too much was being made of the change. “These adjustments are just that,’’ he said. “They are guidance.’’ The governor said he understands there are teachers with underlying health conditions who may not want to be in school and parents who don’t want their children in a classroom. He said, though, that should be the exception, not the rule. “Where it is possible and safe, we want our schools open and we want our kids

see VIRUS page 22

NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

High court warns judges on initiative rulings BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

rial judges cannot keep voter-proposed initiatives off the ballot just because the description doesn’t mention every provision, the Arizona Supreme Court ruled last week in a conclusion that should make it easier to put future initiatives to voters. In an extensive decision, the justices rejected the idea that the legally required 100-word explanation on petition sheets must inform would-be signers of everything the proposed state law or constitutional amendment would do. As long as the verbiage does not provide “objectively false or misleading information’’ or obscures key provisions, it meets what is legally required, wrote Justice Ann Scott Timmer for the unanimous court. Timmer said including every provision of a complex measure in that 100-word limit is impractical. She said it’s sufficient for proponents to say in the description that those who want more information should read the actual text of the proposal. Monday’s ruling is specifically explaining the court’s previously announced decision to give voters their say on a 3.5 percent surcharge on taxes of earnings above $250,000 for individuals and $500,000 for couples. Proposition 208 earmarks the proceeds mainly for K-12 education. A trial judge had provided a litany of reasons he found the proposal legally unworthy to be on the Nov. 3 ballot. The high court’s decision sends a message to trial judges that they should not look for excuses to knock future proposals off the ballot as long as petition signers have reasonable notice of what the measure would do. The unanimous decision is also a setback for initiative foes, particularly the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which has routinely opposed efforts by voters to go around the decisions of the Republican-controlled Arizona Legislature in deciding what to enact and what issues to ignore.

It also could ease the path for anticipated future ballot proposals including increasing Arizona’s unemployment benefits, providing for family leave and creation of more affordable housing, all of which might end up on the 2022 ballot. But other hurdles may be coming. Chamber spokesman Garrick Taylor, who believes initiatives are misused, noted some states require that a certain percentage of signatures to come from different areas of the state. Right now, circulators can get all the names they need only from one county. Taylor also noted some states have a requirement for initiatives to be ratified at two successive elections to take effect. And he also cited a requirement for a 60 percent approval margin that exists elsewhere. That latter hurdle, had it been in effect, would have resulted in the defeat of at least two proposals opposed by the Chamber: the 2010 initiative allowing the medical use of marijuana and the 2016 measure imposing a $12 minimum wage. Garrick claimed initiatives often are financed by out-of-state interests and noted that a constitutional amendment approved by voters bars lawmakers from tinkering with anything approved on the ballot. Central to the ruling is the right of Arizonans to propose their own constitutional amendments and changes to state law by gathering sufficient signatures. The high court extensively addressed Superior Court Judge Christopher Coury’s numerous reasons for trying to kill Prop 208. The bottom line, said Timmer, is that nothing in the Arizona Constitution or state initiative laws throws as many hurdles in the path of petition circulators as foes of the process have suggested. And she specifically said that only the most important, consequential and primary features of the initiative have to be in that explanation. “The 100-word description serves as the ‘elevator pitch’ that alerts prospective signatories to the measure’s key operative provisions.

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VIRUS from page 20

inside a classroom, with a teacher at the front of the classroom, and them getting the best, safest education possible,’’ Ducey said. Humble said county health officials “should’ve seen it at least a week ago and had time to digest it, because it’s the county health departments that are working with the school districts and it’s their responsibility; the state is like the ivory tower.” Humble said the state also has a responsibility to be transparent and honest about these type of changes with residents or it risks losing public trust. “And the best way to keep trust is be honest with them and be truthful and be transparent,” Humble said. “And if one of those three things breaks down, then you start to lose trust and you can’t afford to lose trust anytime, and in particular during a pandemic when you’re asking people to participate in this grand emergency response in various different ways.” Capitol Media Services contributed to this report. 

Freeway path opens

The South Mountain Freeway’s 32nd Street interchange and the shared use path along the southern edge of the thoroughfare opened last Friday and controversy already has emerged over the way some cyclists are treating pedestrians on the path, which is open to all non-motorized vehicles. Some pedestrians said hispeed cyclists yelled at them and came close to hitting them. (Pablo Robles/AFN Staff Photographer)

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ANSWERS TO PUZZLES AND SUDOKU from Page 45

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Toddlers in tutus make memories at Studio 111 BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributor

ach Thursday morning at Ahwatukee’s Dance Studio 111, tiny people enter the doors, either hopping about in excitement or standing shyly while holding tightly to the hand of their parent or grandparent. Others not yet walking are borne in arms as a unique dance class gets underway for children crawling through age 2 1/2. This is the new and free 30-minute Mommy & Me class taught by veteran dance teacher Carolyn Butters, who has led similar Mommy & Me classes locally for decades. She enjoys bringing the joy of dance, music and movement to little children. “I love being kids’ �irst dance teacher,” she said. “I’ve been honored to have been so many dancers’ �irst dance teacher. I have some former students who continued with dance after having experienced

Mommy & Me instructor Carolyn Butters takes a break with three of her dance students, including, from left, Cora Mae Dart, Payson Rogers and Michaela Rosales. (Pablo Robles/AFN Staff Photographer)

it �irst as toddlers in my classes.” The Mommy & Me, a �irst for Dance Studio

111 at 4910 E. Chandler Blvd. in Ahwatukee, is designed to help children with coor-

dination, motor skills and learning how to follow along with the teacher and the kidfocused music like “Rock-a- bye Baby.” Butters said she presented the idea for the toddler class when she joined Dance Studio 111 where she also teaches jazz and tumbling. She had taken a year hiatus, and COVID-19 extended that time away from teaching. “Like so many families, I was excited to get back to work and thrilled to join the staff at Dance Studio 111,” she said. “Owner Kimberly Lewis and I agreed that our Ahwatukee community was in need of a morning enrichment dance program that would help give young mothers and toddlers a safe environment to come back into. “Our free toddler class has put a spark back in our tiny dancers and built some new friendships along the way.” For Butters, the passion for dance began

�� DANCE �� 27

Ahwatukee veteran a �inalist in air-co contest AFN NEWS STAFF

n Ahwatukee woman is one of �ive military veterans picked as �inalists who could win a new home air-conditioning system in an annual competition Forrest Anderson Plumbing & Air Conditioning, but the community has to act fast to give her a shot at the prize. Annie Patterson, who served 15-years in the U.S. Army and National Guard working as a combat medic, orthopedic specialist, and hospital administrator is one of �ive �inalists in the company’s annual Military Hero A/C Giveaway. The winner is determined by the number of votes cast on their behalf at forestanderson.net and today is the deadline for voting. The contestants were announced last week, after AFN’s deadline. She served in Saudi Arabia as part of

Annie Patterson of Ahwatukee, flanked by her two sons, is a finalist among five military veterans for a free air-conditioning system from Forrest Anderson Plumbing & Air Conditioning as voting in its Military Hero A/C Giveaway ends today. Go to forrestanderson.net to cast your ballot. (Forrest Anderson)

Operation Desert Storm, provided forest �ire medical support in Washington, and

assisted hurricane relief efforts in Florida. The �inalists were picked by Forest

Anderson from nominations it received last month. “My grandfather, Forrest Anderson, started this company after serving our country in World War II and we feel it is our obligation as citizens to thank all veterans and active duty service members for protecting our national security,” said Forrest Anderson president Audrey Monell. “By sharing their stories, we hope to start conversations about the importance of supporting military members and their families who sacri�ice so much, especially when deployed.” Forest Anderson has partnered with MORSCO HVAC/Bush Supply and Smiley Crane Service in the contest, which has been held annually since 2016. The other contestants include: Lucy Wong, an artist who was a �inalist

�� VETERAN �� 27

COMMUNITY

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

ARC club slates shred-a-thon to gift troops AFN NEWS STAFF

he pandemic has made times tough for many people, but they’re not nearly as tough as what many men and women in the Armed Forces endure, especially those in harm’s way. That’s why the Support the Troops Club at the Ahwatukee Recreation Center is going forward with its only fundraiser for the Christmas boxes it sends to troops overseas annually. From 9-11 a.m. Nov. 14, it will hold a Shred-A-Thon in the ARC parking lot at 5001 E. Cheyenne Drive. “Support the Troops has not been able to do their normal fundraising activities because of the COVID-19 restrictions, so this will be their only fundraiser for the Christmas boxes they will be sending,” said Ed Doney, an active member of ARC. Support the Troops has been sending gift boxes to our troops twice a year for more than a decade. In November, boxes are being prepared to go to Arizona National Guard troops currently stationed overseas. Each box includes purchased items like individually wrapped snacks and treats, plus other useful things such as moist wipes and t-shirts or socks. Fun items like decks of cards, Frisbees or balls are added. For the Christmas boxes, ARC clubs have contributed monetary donations as well as homemade crafts speci�ically made for the troops, such as Christmas stockings, hats, wreaths, and greeting cards. Volunteers gift wrap certain items as if they had

been placed under a tree. Once the items are ready to go, more volunteers gather to �ill all 150 shipping boxes assembly line style. Then they are taken to the post of�ice to be shipped overseas to the troops. That’s where the Shred-a-thon comes in. To pay for shipping costs and some of the purchased items, they need to raise money. In the past the club has sometimes had to delay sending gifts because it couldn’t afford the shipping costs. With the limitation of group activities due to COVID-19, the club’s other fund-raising activities have had to be canceled. Club members hope people who have documents they would like to safely dispose of, bring them to the ARC parking lot where they will be shredded while you watch. Documents should be put in bags or bankersized boxes in your trunk and the volunteers will take the boxes from the trunk and dump them into the paper shredder bin, returning the empty boxes to the trunk. The charge is just $3 per banker sizedbox. For total “no contact” disposal, people may leave the payment in the trunk with the boxes full of documents to be shredded. Otherwise, they can pay a volunteer wearing a mask and gloves through the vehicle window. Donations are not tax deductible since ARC is a non-pro�it HOA, not a 501(c)(3) charity. 

Support the Troops has not been able to do their normal fundraising activities because of the COVID-19 restrictions, so this will be their only fundraiser for the Christmas boxes they will be sending.

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Packing of the gift boxes will take place the week after the Shred-A-Thon. In prior years ARC’s Main Hall was filled with tables of gift items from which volunteers filled gift boxes assembly line style. This year skeleton crews will work with masks and gloves performing the same task. (Ed Doney/Special to AFN

The Saguaro Strippers Quilting Club hand fashioned 150 Christmas stockings which will be included in the gift boxes being sent to the Arizona National Guard troops stationed overseas. Ruth Philliben (seated) sewed 90 of the stockings. Nancy Askin, Sylvia Holt (standing) and other members of the quilter’s club made the rest. (Ed Doney/Special to AFN)

What made you choose Ahwatukee as your home? What were the challenges when you arrived? What is the most interesting thing you have discovered in Ahwatukee? Who is a person you met in Ahwatukee you won’t ever forget? What act of kindness by an Ahwatukee resident or business touched you? Today, AFN begins an occasional series called “Their Stories.” We want to hear your first-person account. Stories should be about 500-700 words. Include a picture of yourself or you and your family and send your stories to pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com.

REAL ESTATE

Real Estate Guide Building permits rise, but market remains tight AFN NEWS STAFF

rustrated home buyers got some good news last week from an entity that closely monitors the area’s housing market but they may want to find a fuel-efficient vehicle if they work in Phoenix. The good news that building permits for new home construction soared in the third quarter is tempered by the fact that most of that new construction is in Pinal County, especially around Queen Creek, according to the Cromford Report.

Even so, that’s still good news for buyers because the news closer to Phoenix isn’t very encouraging. Cromford said that even though October “brought us a healthy flow of new listings,” many buyers are due for more disappointment because “the demand has strengthened so much these have done almost nothing to affect the chronic shortage of homes for sale.” To put it bluntly, according to Cromford, home buyers can still expect to be looking

see MARKET page RE2

SPO OTLIGHT home

Pristine & Classy Gated Calabrea Estate! On A Premium 2/3 Acre Hillside Lot

Listed for $1,950,000

SeePage Page 66 See

See SeePage Page 66

Stunning custom basement home w/ 4 car garage in Ahwatukee Foothills’ prestigious gated community of Calabrea.

Stunning panoramic views from privately gated luxury retreat, meticulously adorned with imported Montana stone accents.

Mike Mendoza

Listed for $1,379,000

Geno Ross

Rachael Richards

See Page Page 66 See

Listed for $1,450,000

Ahwatukee’s #1 Team for Over 30 Years 480-706-7234

Tapestry Canyon - Front

Tapestry Canyon - Back

Magnificent mountain luxury retreat perched high on elevated hillside lot in exclusive gated Tapestry Canyon. 5 br, 5.5 ba with 5,002 sq. ft. This dramatic view home has endless entertaining possibilities. Fabulous custom build offering privacy with expansive mountain views plus city lights.

Listed for $1,510,000

www.MendozaTeam.com

Tapestry Canyon - Front

Mike Mendoza

Tapestry Canyon - Back

Majestic Southwest contemporary estate on elevated 1.24-acre hillside lot with stunning mountain and city light views. 5 br, 4.5 ba with 4,924 sq. ft. Resort-style backyard with slate patio, built-in Viking grill, pool, spa, koi pond and ultimate privacy.

Listed for $1,325,000

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REAL ESTATE

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

Eyecatcher

This two-story home on South 7th Street in Ahwatukee sold for $879,000. Built in 1993, this fourbedroom, three-bath home is located on a cul de sac that abuts the Preserve and the backyard offers a perfect outdoor entertainment area with pool, spa, built-in barbecue and fire pit. Inside sports a host of nicely appointed features like plantation shutters, marble entry, niches throughout and a gourmet kitchen. A wrap-around balcony provides some magnificent views. (Special to AFN)

MARKET from page RE1

for needles in haystacks. “By the time we get to Thanksgiving, the flow of new listings is likely to slacken and we will probably see supply fall away even further as listings get removed for the holiday season,” it said. “Whether this still holds true during a pandemic we will have to see. There is still no sign of any weakness developing in the market with buyers having to fight for every scrap of housing that comes available.” “Despite all expectations for the market to cool, it keeps getting hotter, although at a slower pace,” Cromford added, forecasting a continued upward spiral in prices

that already has put the Phoenix market close to the head of the pack in the rate of home price increases. “Prices are certain to rise from their current level,” Cromford said. “It will take a massive increase in supply for prices to change direction and there is currently no sign of this happening. In fact, we would expect supply to deteriorate between now and year end.” Phoenix has seen a year-over-year average price increase of 9 percent, it added. Meanwhile, in looking at single-family home building permits issued in September, Cromford said, “The good news for buyers is that the rate of construction is increasing, which will provide a little

Ron & Coleen Tompkins

We Sell Meaningful Moments!

more supply over the months to come.” Across Pinal and Maricopa counties, it noted, a total 22,378 permits were issued in the first nine months of 2020 – a 21 percent increase over the total issued in the same time period last year and the highest number issued since 2006. “It is almost the same as the 2007 figure, which was a year in which the builders were hitting the brakes,” Cromford said. “Now their collective feet are firmly on the gas pedal as they try to respond to the very strong demand for single family housing in Central Arizona.” For the third quarter of 2020, the number of permits issued underwent “a dramatic acceleration,” Cromford said, noting that the most were issued in Phoenix, with 1,330, followed by Buckeye, then Surprise in the top three. But Cromford also noted that more than 1,200 permits were issued for construction of single-family homes in unincorporated areas of Maricopa and Pinal counties, mostly the San Tan Valley. “Even though Queen Creek has a great deal of new home construction, the San Tan Valley areas outside its boundaries provide even more new housing,” Cromford said. It also noted that “Florence is almost as active as Chandler and Coolidge is almost

as active as Scottsdale.” That led Cromford to conclude, “Pinal is rising in significance and growing faster than Maricopa.” Meanwhile, Cromford reported that there are bright spots on the mortgage scene nationally with fewer delinquencies appearing. “Early stage delinquencies show strong improvement with many measures returning to pre-pandemic levels,” it said. “Loan pre-payment rose above 3 percent in September, the first time in 16 years. “This high rate is partly driven by the very low interest rates causing a lot of refinance activity. In addition, the strong out-of-season home buying is causing buyers to pay off the loans on their former homes.” States with the highest percentages of delinquencies are Mississippi, Louisiana, Hawaii, New York and Texas. “Home equity is at a record high and 45 million homeowners have positive (tappable) equity in their homes,” Cromford said. “This the largest number ever.” It also noted that only nine percent of homeowners who are in forbearance have less than 10 percent home equity, meaning that “this offers both the borrowers and lenders multiple options in lieu of foreclosure.” 

NOVEMBER 4, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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FEATURED LISTING

$1,450,000

3043 W BRIARWOOD TER, AHWATUKEE, AZ 85045 5bed+5.5bath • 5,641 sq ft • 27,456 sq ft lot • MLS#6116277

While our home is in Ahwatukee, our knowledge and experience carry over South Mountain to wonderful communities throughout Maricopa County. Where ever your real estate needs might take you, we’re here to help.

YOUR HOUSE IS

R·HOUSE we value your home as if it were our own $374,900 4777 S FULTON RANCH #1016, CHANDLER, 85248 3bed+2.5bath • 1,797 sq ft • MLS#6141144

C O N TA C T U S T O D AY.

rhouserealty.com 480.270.5782

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$380,000 2535 S SABRINA, MESA, AZ 85209 3bed+2bath • 1,704 sq ft • MLS#6150990

$419,900 1442 E WINDSONG DR, AHWATUKEE, AZ 85048 4bed+2.5bath • 2,080 sq ft • GOLFCOURSE LOT

$574,900 1322 E CATALINA DR, PHOENIX, AZ 85014 3bed+3bath • 2,130 sq ft • MLS#6117680

Leading Luxury Home Experts

many frustrated buyers looking for homes in Ahwatukee. The number of units sold would be higher if there were more appropriately priced properties on the market. So why are 35 percent of the properties that came on the market in October still waiting for an offer? The answer is in the numbers. When we look at the October sales summary of closed sales, we can see that 47, or 30 percent, required a price reduction to get an offer. Month after month, we find that 30-40 percent of the listings require a price reduction to get an offer. Buyers will offer a few points above what the comparable sale data would indicate. However, they are not going to overpay even in this market. If they did, it would still have to appraise and while appraisers will come up a few points over comparable sales values, they will not appraise property at a price that is unreasonable and unsupportable. If a nice property stays on the market longer than similar, comparable properties, there is obviously a pricing issue and a price reduction is in order to get an offer.

The old real estate axiom of location, location, location and price, price, price always holds true. Always price it right the first time to get it sold faster and for more. There are 97 active listings in the Ahwatukee market today. We are averaging 136 closed sales per month in 2020. With 151 units sold in October, the 97 active listings will be depleted in less than 20 days. Anything less than a six-month inventory is considered to be a seller’s market. The strong seller’s market we have seen for months is getting even stronger. This is one of the few times we would advise sellers to list a little higher to test the market. This will not always be our advice, but it is a prudent consideration in this market. There were four sales of properties over $1 million last month. A home in Tapestry Canyon was the high at $2.3 million and was on the market for only 16 days. Today there are 22 active listings for million-dollar-plus properties. There have

see HENDERSON page RE7

2016 & 2017 BREA Award for Most Sales in Ahwatukee!

2814 W Briarwood Ter ✔ 2,886 sqft, 3 bedrooms (+4) 2 bathrooms

✔ 3850 sqft, 4 bedrooms (+5), 3.5 bathrooms

hen they’re in need of fast cash, homeowners have options that involve tapping into their home equity, the difference between what a home is worth and how much is owned on a mortgage. There are three main ways to tap into home equity, but sorting through those options can be confusing. Here is how to determine which of the three most popular home financing options – cash-out refinance, home equity loan and home equity line of credit – are right for you.

CASH-OUT REFINANCE

How it works: A cash-out refinance replaces your existing mortgage with a new loan that’s larger than what you currently owe—and puts the difference in your pocket. With a cash-out refinance, you’re able to receive some of your home’s equity as a lump sum of cash during the process. “This only works if you have equity in

your home, either through appreciation or paying down your mortgage,” said David Chapman, a real estate agent and professor. Pros: If you need cold, hard cash in your hands, a cash-out refinance can help you get it. If interest rates are lower than when you first got your loan, you’ll get to lock in lower interest rates than you’re paying now. “Now is the time to look at a cash-out refinance due to the low-interest rate environment,” says Michael Foguth, founder of Foguth Financial Group. Cons: You’ll have to pay closing costs when you refinance, though some lenders will let you roll them into your mortgage. The costs can range from 2-5 percent of your loan amount. If interest rates have gone up, you could end up with a higher interest rate than your existing mortgage. Also, you’ll be starting over with a new loan and, unless you refinance into a different type of mortgage altogether, you’ll ultimately be extending the time it takes to pay off your home loan. Even if you get

110 E Desert Wind Drive

Bonny@LeadingLuxuryExperts.com

How it works: Unlike a cash-out refi, which replaces your original loan, a home equity loan is a second additional mortgage that lets you tap into your home’s equity. You’ll get a lump sum to spend as you see fit, then you’ll repay the loan in monthly installments, just as you do with your first mortgage. The home equity loan is secured by your house, which means that if you stop making payments, your lender could foreclose

EAGLE RIDGE

$715,000

703 E. Windmere Dr ✔ 5,000 sqft, 4 bedrooms (+6), 4.5 bathrooms

$1,199,900

BLACK ROCK CANYON

SUMMERHILL ESTATES

15033 S. 7th St

$699,900

Stunning 3,379 sqft single level in the pristine gated community of Black Rock Canyon on a 1/3 acre hillside lot!

14613 S Presario Trail ✔ 6,292 sqft, 6 bedrooms (+8), 5 bathrooms

$1,399,900

This stunning home, located in the sought after hillside gated community of Summerhill Estates is a dream! This custom property sits on over an acre of land and has stunning South Mountain views.

www.LeadingLuxuryExperts.com

Each Keller Williams Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

AHWATUKEE CUSTOM ESTATES

3625 E Nambe Ct ✔ 2,583 sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms.

Luxurious corner lot home on a nearly half acre lot with backyard oasis overlooking spectacular city light & mountain views!

✔ 3.379 sqft, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms

602.369.1085 BONNY HOLLAND Ahwatukee Resident and Realtor since 1995

HOME EQUITY LOAN

Amazing property with spectacular mountain views situated in a serene cul-de-sac! You’ll love the courtyard entry with a gate & cozy fireplace!

$924,900

This outstanding private cul-de-sac property in Whistling Rock is a true dream! One of the largest usable lots in this beautiful gated community.

a better interest rate with your new loan, your monthly payment might be higher. A cash-out refinance makes the most sense if you’re able to get a lower interest rate on your new loan. Experts typically say that at least a 1 percent drop makes refinancing worth it. This option also works well for home renovations, since you’ll be increasing your home’s value even more with the updates. In essence, you’re using your home’s existing equity to help pay for even more equity growth.

#1 Agent in Ahwatukee Closed Volume 2019

FOOTHILLS RESERVE

WHISTLING ROCK

FEATURED LISTING

AFN NEWS SERVICES

HELOC

How it works: A home equity line of credit, aka HELOC, is similar to a home equity loan. It’s a second mortgage that lets

see EQUITY page RE7

$679,000

Remodeled single level split floor plan in Ahwatukee Custom Estates situated on a cul de sac with incredible mountain views!

MONTANA VISTA

216 W Desert Flower Lane ✔ 2912 sqft, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms

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on the home. Pros: You get a huge chunk of cash all at once. A home equity loan lets you keep your existing mortgage, so you don’t have to start over from year one. Your interest rate is typically fixed, not adjustable, so you know exactly what your monthly payment will be over the life of the loan. Also, interest may be tax-deductible. Cons: A home equity loan will likely have a higher interest rate. Home equity loans also come with fees and closing costs, although your lender may opt to waive them. You’re also on the hook for two mortgages. A home equity loan makes more sense than a cash-out refi if you’re happy with your current home loan but you still want to tap into your home equity.

FEATURED LISTING

he average sale price of an Ahwatukee home last month jumped 24 percent over the average of October 2019 while the number of units sold was up 27 percent in the same time frame. Properties are selling in a matter of days, as demonstrated by the fact that of the 151 properties in Ahwatukee came on the market last month, 53 – or 35 percent – were under contract in less than seven days. In this fast market, 66, or 44 percent, were under contract in less than two weeks and 91, fully 60 percent, of the properties listed in October were under contract in under 30 days. Even in this hot market, however 53 – or 35 percent – of the properties that came on the market in October are still looking for a contract. The October real estate sales snapshot for Ahwatukee Foothills indicates that the average sale price rose to $452,942 while

homes in the same period last year sold for an average $365,370. Homes sold faster in 2020 with average days on market dropping to 35 days versus 50 days in 2019. Buyers are continuing to step up with higher offers to get prime properties. While we are still seeing buyers who are not willing to overpay for a property, the number of October listings that required a price reduction declined to 30 percent of the closed listings. Historically, about 40 percent of properties require a price reduction to get a sale. Moving to the 10-month time frame for the current year, the year-to-date average Ahwatukee sale price was $413,394 – 10.4 percent higher than the average sale price of $374,414 in the first 10 months of 2019. The number of units sold between Jan. 1 and Oct. 31 lagged a bit behind 2019 sales results as numbers fell 3.6 percent from the 1,408 units sold in the same period 2019 to the 1,357 units in 2020. Active listings in Ahwatukee are staying steady at 97. This market is hotter than hot. There are

SOLD!

BY ALLEN HENDERSON AFN Contributor

3 different ways to tap into home equity

PENDING

Ahwatukee average sales price soared last month

REAL ESTATE

NOVEMBER 4, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

PENIDNG

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

PENDING

REAL ESTATE

FEATURED LISTING

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$679,900

Wow!! Beautiful 4 bedroom home in unique semi- preserve cul-de-sac lot, located in desirable gated community.

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

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SPO OTLIGHT home

PRISTINE &CLASSY GATED CALABREA ESTATE! PRISTINE & CLASSY GATED ESTATE ON A PREMIUM 2/3 ACRE HILLSIDE LOT • PRIVATE CUL-DE-SAC • 6 BEDROOMS, 4.5 BATHS, 5200 SQFT OF PURE LUXURY FINISHES • STUNNING VIEWS IN EVERY DIRECTION • IRON DOOR • BUTTED GLASS WINDOWS IN ENTRY & KITCHEN • CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS • DECORATOR PAINT • DOME CEILING FOYER & GROIN VAULTED CEILINGS IN LIVING ROOM • TRAVERTINE & HARDWOOD FLOORS THROUGHOUT • 7-INCH BASEBOARDS • MEDIA ROOM • DREAM KITCHEN INCLUDES S/S APPLIANCES,SLAB GRANITE COUNTERS, ALDER CABINETS,HUGE ISLAND,WALK IN PANTRY • LARGE MASTER SUITE W/STONE FIREPLACE • MASTER BATH W/JACUZZI TUB,3 VANITIES & SNAIL SHOWER • PARADISE BACKYARD W/TRAVERTINE IN VERSAILLES PATTERN,TURF GRASS,PEBBLETEC POOL/JACUZZI,4 WATER FEATURES,LARGE COVERED PATIO,STACKED STONE BBQ • 4 CAR GARAGE W/EPOXY & STORAGE! YOUR DREAM ESTATE AWAITS!!

Listed for $1,379,000

Geno Ross (602) 751-2121 www.GenoRoss.com SANCTUARY

CALABREA

3034 W Briarwood Terrace Located in the foothills of Ahwatukee in the gated Sanctuary subdivision, this luxury home features fine appointments throughout starting with the privately gated driveway of all pavers as you approach the 6,445 square foot estate and its vibrant imported Montana Echo Canyon real stone accents. A custom iron-artwork saguaro cactus fountain anchors the circular drive of pavers with a gorgeous stone sidewalk between the main residence and casita. Inviting custom Cantera double iron door leads to the dramatic interior entry showcasing a Yamaha grand piano. Single-level floor plan includes a welcoming great room with wet bar, fridge, icemaker, fireplace and view windows. Separate formal dining room. Impressive custom walk-in wine cellar with storage for 500 bottles. Spacious, gourmet kitchen features a huge island with pendant lighting, SubZero, Viking gas cooktop, double Thermador ovens, warming drawer, double dishwashers, custom knotty alder cabinetry, large sitting area with fireplace, walk-in pantry and bayed, view windows at eat-in area. Master suite replete with large sitting room, two-way fireplace, access to covered patio featuring fountain built out of the mountain and private aboveground spa, media wall, two closets with built-ins, travertine flooring in bath with double vanities, large wrap around shower, big jacuzzi tub and two bathrooms with bidet in one. Media room with theater seating. Workout room with cork flooring. Executive office/den with custom built-ins and large walk-in closet. Two ensuite secondary bedrooms split from the master and both with walk-in closets. Separate 475 square foot casita with full amenities including: iron door, fireplace, wood-beams, breakfast bar with sink, fridge, microwave, walk-in closet and bathroom with walk-in shower. Auto shades throughout the home Resort-style backyard boasts large covered stone patio with multiple areas for entertaining, built-in DCS bbq, negative edge pool, custom artwork, fireplace, lush desert landscaping with lighting and spectacular 270 degree golf course and Estrella mountain views. All furniture and artwork, except for a few personal items, are included in the list price.

Stunning 5 bed / 5.5 bath custom basement home w/ 4 car garage in Ahwatukee Foothills’ prestigious gated community of Calabrea. Gorgeous curb appeal w/ stacked stonework, front courtyard & paver driveway. Highly upgraded with amazing architectural design throughout the home including custom wood beam, arched, tiled & coffered ceilings. Bright & open with huge windows letting in the natural sunlight. The spacious living room has full wall of sliders that open to back patio. Dream kitchen offers top of the line SS appliances (including 6 burner gas range w/ pot filler & multiple ovens), pristine staggered cabinetry, granite counters, pantry & large island w/ sink & bar top seating, as well as built-in desk/workstation in the breakfast area. Formal dining room & wine cellar perfectly located for entertaining. Sprawling master suite w/ double door entry & private exit doors to outside has wet bar w/ mini fridge & fireplace w/ mantel. Master bathroom has two vanities w/ seated area, large soaking tub, huge walk-in tile shower w/ bench & multiple shower heads, & enormous closet w/ custom organization. Finished basement offers huge family room w/ wet bar & mini fridge, perfect room for home theatre if desired, additional bedroom & full bath. Spectacular backyard w/ no neighbors behind or to one side is a true sanctuary w/ its large covered patio, breathtaking pool (waterfall feature & negative edge side), spa, built-in bbq, perfectly placed desert landscaping, scenic fencing & of course the hillside views. This is a MUST SEE home in Calabrea. Easy access to freeway & all Ahwatukee has to offer including shopping, dining, hiking/biking trails, golfing & plenty of other entertainment choices. Schedule your showing today!

Listed for $1,950,000

Mike Mendoza

SONORAN LIVING

KELLER WILLIAMS® REALTY

480.706.7234 • www.MendozaTeam.com

LISTED AT $1,450,000

Rachael Richards

480.270.5782 • rhouserealty.com

REAL ESTATE

NOVEMBER 4, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

HENDERSON from page RE4

been 25 sales of million-dollar-plus properties this year at an average sale price of $1,351,480. They were on the market an average 174 days and 40 percent required a price reduction to get a sale. In the luxury market from $600,000 to $999,999, there have been 117 sales in 2020 and an average price of $700,558. Marketing time on average was 63 days. In the $500,000-$599,000 price-range there have been 139 sales at an average price of $544,415 and an average marketing time of 63 days. In the $400,000-$499,000 range, 253 properties sold for an average $437,780 in 2020 with an average marketing time of 40 days. In the $300,000-$399,000 range, there have been 498 sales at an average price of $346,731 with an average on-market time of 37 days. In the under-$300,000 market, 278 sales with an average price of $236,210 and average 33 days on the market have

closed. So far this year, 1,029 Ahwatukee properties – 76 percent of the total closed sales in Ahwatukee – sold for under $500,000. The economic outlook continues to be strong. Demand is high and increasing for homes. Interest rates are low and the Federal Reserve has indicated it is not anticipating interest rate increases in the short term. Phoenix is ranked number three in the country with respect to job creation. Despite some rumblings about a downturn in the national real estate market, the outlook appears to be mostly positive. Of course, the political situation is always a wild card as Washington reacts to COVID-19, social unrest and international trade issues. All in all, there has never been a better time to sell an Ahwatukee property for a great price and quickly. If you have any questions or if you need a free professional consultation, Ahwatukee Realtor Allen Henderson can be reached at 480-392-2090. 

EQUITY from page RE5

you pull out your home equity as cash. With a HELOC, however, instead of a lump sum amount, it works more like a credit card. You can borrow as much as you need whenever you need it up to a limit, and you make payments only on what you actually use, not the total credit available. HELOCs are treated totally separately from an existing mortgage, just like a home equity loan. Pros: You borrow only what you need, so you may be less tempted to spend this money than a lump-sum home equity loan. You pay interest only once you start borrowing, but you can keep the line of credit open for many years, which means your HELOC can act as a safeguard for emergencies. HELOCs typically have lower interest rates than home equity loans and typically have little or no closing costs. HELOCs are often easier to get because they’re subject to fewer lending rules and regulations than home equity loans.

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Cons: HELOCs usually have adjustable interest rates, which means you can’t necessarily predict how much your monthly payment will be. Most HELOCs typically require the borrower to pay interest only during what’s known as the draw period, with principal payments kicking in later during the repayment period. If you don’t plan properly or you lose your job, you might be caught off guard by these higher payments down the road. A bank can foreclose if you stop making payments. Once a HELOC transitions into the repayment period, the borrower is required to make both principal and interest payments. Many borrowers forget about this transition and are often startled by the sudden increase in minimum payments. A HELOC makes the most sense if you want the flexibility and peace of mind of knowing you can easily access money in the future. Realtor.com provided this report. 

GOT NEWS? Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@timespublications.com

480-706-7234

Ahwatukee’s #1 Team for Over 30 Years 5 BR / 5.5 BA / 5,002 SQFT Magnificent mountain luxury retreat perched high on elevated hillside lot in exclusive gated community with majestic views.

Tapestry Canyon

Listed for $1,510,000

4BR / 3BA / 2,800 SQFT Rare opportunity on hillside lot with great views. New interior paint in 2020. Roof replacement in 2019.

Mountain Park Ranch

ST JU TED S I L

Listed for $585,000

Winfield NG MION O C SO

3 BR / 2 BA / 2,182 SQFT

5 BR / 5 BA / 6,455 SQFT

Rare opportunity for superb Scottsdale Villa with amazing amenities. Largest floor plan with a full third bedroom.

Stunning panoramic views from privately gated luxury retreat with casita on elevated preserve lot.

Listed for $589,000

Listed for $1,950,000

3BR / 2.5 BA / 1,689 SQFT New interior paint and flooring. Master suite downstairs with loft and Jack and Jill bathroom upstairs. Close to community pool.

Keystone

Mike Mendoza MendozaTeam.com

Call for Details

Sanctuary LF GO

2BR / 2 BA / 1,322 SQFT Resort-style living at gated Encanterra Country Club twin home. Built in 2017 with updates throughout.

Listed for $335,000

Encanterra

Tapestry Canyon

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

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Ahwatukee Custom Estates One of the most amazing view lots in

$2,099,000

SOLD!

all of AZ. Custom home with everythingl 10,000 sq. ft., 3/4 acre prserve lot, 6 bedrooms, 6 bathes, Executive Office Suite, Master Suite with Sitting Room, Master Bath with Jacuzzi, Theater Room, Exercise Room, Loft, Guest House, Grand Foyer, Gourmet Kitchen, Resort Backyard with Pebbletec Diving Pool, Watertalls, slide, Volcano, firepit, Spa, Sport Court, Grassy Play Areas, & Outdoor Kitchen, 4-car A/C Garage. A true masterpiece!!!

Calabrea

Ahwatukee Custom Estates

$1,379,000

$1,950,000

Pristine & Classy Gated Estate On A Premium 2/3 Acre Hillside Lot, Private Cul-De-Sac, 6 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths, 5200 Sqft Of Pure Luxury Finishes, Stunning Views In Every Direction, Iron Door, Butted Glass Windows In Entry & Kitchen, Custom Window Treatments, Decorator Paint, Dome Ceiling Foyer & Groin Vaulted Ceilings In Living Room, Travertine & Hardwood Floors Throughout, 7-Inch Baseboards, Media Room, Dream Kitchen Includes S/S Appliances, Slab Granite Counters, Alder Cabinets, Huge Island, Walk In Pantry, Large Master Suite W/Stone Fireplace, Master Bath W/Jacuzzi Tub, 3 Vanities & Snail Shower, Paradise Backyard W/Travertine In Versailles Pattern, Turf Grass, Pebbletec Pool/Jacuzzi, 4 Water Features, Large Covered Patio, Stacked Stone Bbq, 4 Car Garage W/Epoxy & Storage! Your Dream Estate Awaits!!

Calabrea $1,099,000

Cabrillo Canyon $689,000

Amazing Remodeled Custom Estate with mountain views located at the end of a cul-de-sac.Over 8000sqft of pure luxury finishes.6 Bedroom,5.5 Baths.Custom Kitchen.Elevator.Executive Office.Basement Media Room.Dance Studio.Huge Backyard with Pool, Jacuzzi, Turf, BBQ, Sportcourt.This Spectacular Estate has it all!!!

Summerhill $1,099,000

5 bedroom / 3 bath, 3,506 SqFt, Cul-de-sac location with huge backyard, sports court, built-in BBQ, mature shade trees, very private backing to wash. Good size SOLD! bedrooms, master downstai5. Features a large office with balcony, plus office/loft with built-in bookcase and 3 full baths. Th� home is perfect for family gatherings BEST NEAR THE LOOP 202 in gated withand stunning mountain only. views. andLOCATION entertaining. CanNEW be previewed with 24Calabrea hour notice appointment

SOLD! Stunning Single Level Custom Remodel on a huge corner lot in a cul-de-sac! *4 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath *The highest quality custom finishes throughout *Grand foyer *Formal living & dining room *Familt room w/fireplace *Wetbar *Designer kitchen includes: quartzsite counters & island, s/s appliances, custom cabinetry, walk-in pantry *Recessed LED lights throughout *Plantation shutters *Large master suite *Master bath w/walk-in shower, free standing tub, & walk-in closet *Laundry room w/sink *Wood flooring *Custom fixtures *Trane A/C’s *Private backyard w/covered patio, pebbletec pool, turf, & RV gate with tons of room to park the toys *3 Car garage with epoxy *The lot is very private *The house shows like a new build *Do not miss your opportunity to own this amazing Cabrillo Canyon Estate!

Complete with the highest quality build and finishes. Gourmet kitchen includes slab granite counters, alder cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. This estate also features a media/ theater room with 105 inch screen. The basement includes a full wet bar, family room & 2 bedrooms. Resort Backyard with pool. A perfect 10!

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Need a BIGGER HOUSE? Traditional Elegance! Downstairs has a living room, 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bath, kitchen, Dining & Family room downstairs, Upstairs features a huge loft, Spacious Master bedroom + 4 bedrooms and 3 baths. Total of 7 bedrooms & 4.5 baths. 4 car garage w/plenty of storage for all your toys, RV gate on E & W side of house & a big yard to enjoy. Submit your offer!

Highly sought after Mogollon Estates corner lot with plenty of trees and across from National Forest. All underground utilities including water, power, telephone/DSL, paved streets AND SEPTIC are in. Build your dream cabin retreat or a year round home located a quiet cul-de-sac with existing custom homes on level easy build lot. Super Low HOA fees!

Over $10,000 worth of upgrades!!! This ground floor condo with it’s beautiful views of the McDowell Mountains cannot be beat. Ready for you to move in with the Gorgeous new tile & paint throughout. Maple Cabinets, stainless steel appliances & Granite Counter tops just finish off this great 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo.

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Randy Stopher 480-270-9130 Randy@ListWithRandy.com

SOLD! 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 3252 Sq Ft. This gorgeous family home with it’s backyard oasis combines the best of indoor and outdoor living . The remodeled kitchen overlooks the dining/family room with gas fireplace and offers granite counter tops, stainless appliances, duel ovens, wet bar and large pantry. Recently repainted inside & out and re-carpeted in 2019.

Troy Royston 480-435-3461 troyston61@gmail.com

Jill Ostendorp 480-678-7308 jillo@homesbyjillo.com

Jenifer Bulfer 480-297-6968 jbulfer@westusa.com

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Desirable Single Level 4 Bedroom 3 Bath Home with No HOA on Almost A 1/4 Acre Lot! Split Floorplan, Two Master Bedrooms. Beautiful Backyard with Pool. RV Gate and Parking!!

Fully and beautifully remodeled home located in a cul-de-sac lot in the HEART of Tempe. This open and bright floor plan with 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage and over sized yard( room for RV gate). The kitchen offers all new white cabinets, stainless steel appliances and Quartz counters. Enormous family room with fireplace and vaulted ceilings. Beautiful neutral palette. New a/c unit, water heater , roof, windows and doors Easy access to Freeways and lots of shopping and restaurants.

Rare find! Ground floor 2 bedroom 2 bath. New paint and carpet. Granit counter tops and close to pool in gated community. Walking distance to shopping and restaurants and fifteen minutes to Sky Harbor Airport.

Geri Thompson 480-239-7589 gerithompson@westusa.com

Kelly Quek, M.B.A. 480-734-9808 www.kellyqrealty.com

Beth Cooke 520-635-3727 beth@bethrealaz.com

COMMUNITY

NOVEMBER 4, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

DANCE �� 25

with gymnastics. “While growing up as a competitive gymnast my love for dance grew out of my �loor routines and ballet classes,” she recalled. “Later in high school I enjoyed studying and taking all genres of dance. “I started teaching dance and gymnastics locally at 16 and found that I had a genuine love and connection working with boys and girls ages 6 and under.” She has spent a quarter century developing toddlers-kinder programs and boasts they have “proven successful from the tiniest dancer to the advanced competitive dancer with each gaining con�idence, enriched learning and an everlasting love for the arts.” Each Mommy & Me class includes energetic music and props such as stuffed animals. “Music is key that helps students stay engaged while picking up choreography and basic dance fundamentals,” explained Butters. Among the tiny dancers barely balancing on her own two feet is Cora Mae Dart, age 10 months. Although she’s still in the crawling stage, she makes attempts at walking and even when sucking on her paci�ier, is attentively engaged with the goings-on. She is accompanied to class by her grandmother, Kim Lindsey, whose two grown daughters, Samantha (Sammie) Dart, Cora Mae’s mother and a COVID-19 nurse, and Cassie Lindsey, a Phoenix Suns Dancer, both were trained in dance at Dance Studio 111. Cora Mae’s father is Tyler Dart and the family lives in Ahwatukee. “I always loved taking my daughters to dance classes so it was natural for me to

VETERAN �� 25

last year for a Governor’s Arts award, and is a U.S. Navy Veteran of Operation Desert Storm who served 14-years as a medical lab technician. Her exposure to chemicals resulted in two painful autoimmune conditions and her experience prompted her to campaign

t ? Gow s e N

Carolyn Butters gets year-old Michaela Rosales into her ballet slippers at Dance Studio 111’s Mommy & Me class, held Thursdays between 9:30-10 a.m. (Pablo Robles/AFN Staff Photographer)

bring Cora Mae when these Mommy & Me classes were offered,” said Lindsey, who kept an eye on her granddaughter, bedecked in a purple tutu and leopard-print leotard with matching headband that Grandma Lindsey had made her. “I make her a custom dance out�it every week,” she said. “They’re only little for such a short time so I want to make the most of every minute.” Socialization in the age of COVID was another big reason in Lindsey’s decision to bring Cora Mae to the weekly classes. “Because of the pandemic, children, especially little ones like Cora Mae, haven’t had opportunities for contact with other kids,” said Lindsey, who was raised in Ahwatukee. “She was born in January and COVID hit in March, so she had only her parents and me around her.”

for awareness and research related to those illnesses. She shares her experiences at VA centers and has testi�ied before Congress to raise awareness and funding for research. Don Breland of Glendale, a combat veteran who spent 15 years in the U.S. Army, serving with the 101st Airborne Division,

Also in attendance was Lindsey’s great niece and Cora Mae’s cousin, Michaela Rosales, who turned 1 in September. “It’s nice because they’ve been able to hang out together,” said Lindsey, a 1992 Corona del Sol High School alum. Butters said this introductory dance class can set a child on the way to a lifetime of learning and enjoyment. “The �irst dance class is so important, and I take pride in making sure that I build a strong foundation and a passion for dance that will have everlasting memories for everyone,” she said. “It’s important for my little dancers to understand the value of dance is far greater than the awards, it’s a chance to shine with greater self esteem and discipline. I love that I can bring out the best in my students by motivating and inspiring them.”

82nd Airborne Division, 1st Infantry Division, and spent more than �ive of them on jump status. Michael Butcher, of Tolleson, is a combat Veteran and Purple Heart Medal recipient who was driven to join the U.S. Army after the Sept. 11, 2001, attack on America. He served with the 4th Infantry Division in Iraq and was injured in a rocket propelled

Kimberly Lewis is delighted with the community’s enthusiastic response since the Mommy & Me classes began Oct. 15. “Miss Carolyn is very well known in our Ahwatukee Foothills Community, and she has such a sweet connection with children,” she said. “I love when she starts her class with her ‘Good Morning’ song. The moment she starts dancing and singing you can see the children –some as young as 10 months – light up and connect with her,” said Lewis. Lewis said there are many bene�its to starting dance so young. “Dance classes help a child develop work and learning skills that will help set them up for success and this starts at a very young age,” she adding they help kids’ emotional development and encourage socialization and creativity – “not to mention the fun both parent and child have together in class.” Lewis said one of her favorite parts of the class is the Teddy Bear Dance. Miss Carolyn hands each tiny dancer a little teddy bear and they dance and sing the teddy bear to sleep. “It is precious to see,” Lewis said. “You cannot help coming out of her class happy and feeling good and uplifted which we all need during this pandemic. “ Butters said even though the class is called “Mommy & Me,” dads and grandparents are encouraged to join as well. The class meets for a half hour at 9:30 a.m. Thursdays. Call 480-706-6040 or email dancestudio111@dancestudio111.com Studio 111 also has started regular classes for children ages 3-4 from 10-11 a.m. Thursday. This is not a free class and includes a half hour of tap and a half hour of ballet.  grenade attack, but remained on active duty until his medical retirement in 2012. Jed Davis, of Phoenix, a Marine Corps veteran who served as an infantryman with the 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment. He was deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and participated in Operation Moshtarak to secure the town of Marjah. 

Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@timespublications.com

COMMUNITY

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

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BUSINESS

Business 30

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

@AhwatukeeFN |

@AhwatukeeFN

www.ahwatukee.com

911 Sanitizing helps community �ight COVID-19 BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributor

lex Sandoval of Ahwatukee has been a Phoenix firefighter for more than two decades, having changed career paths after starting in engineering. He said he made the choice because he wanted his work to be focused on helping others. Now, a business he has founded does the same. It was an incident at the start of COVID-19 when the idea for his 911 Sanitizing company took root. “In March I was running an emergency call at Sky Harbor Airport and saw firsthand how the travel industry was being affected by the COVID-19 virus,” he said. “I also knew that if traveling was going to be a problem, then every other aspect of our daily lives would also be struggling, trying to prevent contact with COVID-19,” added Sandoval, a city firefighter for 23 years and currently captain on Engine 23.

“I knew that the public had to feel safe and to do that, we had to decontaminate and sanitize everything,” he explained. “As a firefighter, we’ve always dealt with hazardous situations or we are constantly in contact with bacteria or viral situations. “We must be strict about washing our hands and wiping down our equipment to keep ourselves and the public safe, so starting a sanitizing business was right up my alley,” he said. Sandoval also felt that he could help provide “that level of security to the public by cleaning their homes, businesses, and any type of transportation that people rely on.” In the four months that 911 Sanitizing has been operating, Sandoval and his company have helped sanitize homes, retail and restaurant businesses, medical offices and places of worship. Using the latest in personal equipment and products that are “human, pet and earth safe,” he feels 911 Sanitizing has been instrumental in bringing peace of mind to many.

Phoenix ﬁreﬁghter and Ahwatukee resident Alex Sandoval recently started his own business, 911 Sanitizing. (Special to AFN)

“As the owner of the company, I want to build the trust of the community and give them a service that’s going to help them,

and at an affordable price,” he said. “I feel it is very important to not only use products that work but are also safe to put in their homes and businesses.” His Nano Extended Barrier lasts 90 days and, like other products he uses, is non-caustic and non-corrosive. “I’ve always believed it’s important to help each other. I thought this would be a nice way to help out, to get businesses back up and running,” he said, adding 911 Sanitizing will work with the customer and help wherever possible. “If people need help developing a cleaning process or revising a current one, or have questions on keeping their family, employees or customers safe, we can help. All they have to do is call us.” When Sandoval or any of his trained technicians enter a home, business or church to decontaminate and sanitize, they’re ready to do some serious work. All are clad head to bootie in white per-

Discount grocer Aldi opens �irst store AFN NEWS STAFF

A The new Aldi store in Chandler, coupled with one in Peoria, marks the supermarket chain’s ﬁrst foray into Arizona. (Special to AFN)

ldi, a fast-growing national grocery chain, is continuing its westward expansion by opening its first Arizona store in Chandler. The Illinois discount company’s new store on the northwest corner of Alma School and Queen Creek roads is one of close to a dozen it is opening in the Valley as part of a $5 billion multi-year expansion. It also plans to open two stores in Gilbert and at least one each in Goodyear, Mesa, Peoria, Mesa, Queen Creek and Tempe, and a second store in Gilbert. Aldi already has more than 2,000 stores in 36 states and is eyeing the addition of at least 70 more, mostly in western states.

�ee SANITIZE page 31

“Each new store is an opportunity to serve another community, which is an honor and responsibility we do not take lightly,” said Jason Hart, CEO, of Aldi U.S. “As we continue to expand, we promise to do everything in our power to offer the lowest prices, every day, without exception. In fact, as food costs are rising across the country, we’re lowering prices on hundreds of items to meet our customers’ increased need for savings.” The company also increased its fresh food selection with a focus on new produce, meat and organic options, as well as easy to prepare foods “without compromising its commitment to low prices.” ALDI has also expanded its e-commerce offerings and in May announced the accelerated rollout of its curbside grocery pick-

�ee ALDI page 31

BUSINESS

NOVEMBER 4, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

SANITIZE from page 30

sonal protective equipment and wear a lime green backpack that houses their electrostatic sprayer. His technicians are trained to operate under guidelines established by the Center for Disease Control for Best Practices for Environmental Cleaning to help disinfect and deep clean for coronavirus and other harmful bacteria using, among other tools, an electrostatic sprayer. Even with his fledgling business, sometimes Sandoval and 911 Sanitizing provide their services free of charge to individuals or businesses in need. When he and his wife of 26 years, Lisa, learned of an area family who had all contracted COVID, 911 Sanitizing went to their home and sanitized it free. After hearing that one of their favorite restaurants, owned by a local family, was finding it hard to re-open after the lockdown ended, 911 Sanitize serviced their building for free. “This Ahwatukee restaurant was really struggling. They really took a hit, and like every other restaurant their clientele had dropped off. We did this because we wanted people to feel more comfortable coming back knowing they had taken steps to thoroughly clean and sanitize the

ALDI from page 30

up service to nearly 600 stores. It claims it has grocery delivery in 10,000 ZIP codes already, although it is unclear if the Chandler store will be added to the list. Ninety percent of Aldi’s shelves are stocked with its own exclusive brand with a limited selection of national brands. The company states shoppers can save up to 50 percent on their grocery bills by shopping at Aldi. Besides produce, Aldi also sells items such as bed sheets, small kitchen appliances, patio furniture and clothing. “Aldi brands are made by many of the country’s leading food producers and meet or exceed the quality of national name brands,” the company said. Other ways Aldi keeps cost low is keeping staff to a minimum and no free bags for customers – they can bring their own or buy a reusable bag at checkout. And customers who want to use a shopping cart must first deposit a quarter, which they get back when they return the cart.

Alex Sandoval said his technicians are trained in all CDC protocols and use products that are safe for customers. (Special to AFN)

entire area,” said Sandoval. And when Mountain Park Church, where Sandoval and his family have attended since 1999, prepped to reopen, there was no question in his mind that he would do what he could to ensure everyone at-

The cart-rental system means Aldi doesn’t have to hire someone to police the carts, passing along the savings to customers. Additionally, with the system there are no stray carts littering the parking lot or causing dents to cars. Aldi also does not have coffee shops or pharmacies. “We will be sure to let you know of future Arizona expansion plans and store locations, once available,” said Tom Cindel, Moreno Valley Group director of operations and logistics. “Arizona is an exciting next step in our continued West Coast expansion after our success entering California in 2016,” he added. “We look at many factors in choosing new store locations, including proximity to our shoppers and ability to support a high daily traffic volume. Bottom line, we want to be conveniently located for our customers and the Arizona locations were a natural fit.” The company, ranked as the nation’s third-largest supermarket chain, recently published the results of a survey of more

tending the 48,000 square foot, two-story church structure would be safe. “We went into Mountain Park one month before they reopened. They had pretty much wiped everything down but we went in and sanitized everything from the auditorium to the play center to the prayer room,” he said. Is giving back a sound practice for a nascent business? Sandoval doesn’t hesitate when answering. “Yes, this is a business, but one of the things I’d like to do once or twice a month is volunteer my services; go in and help people,” said Sandoval. “I’m pretty fortunate, I have a stable job so if I can be of help, that’s what I want to be able to do.” Sandoval is a family man and a givingback kind of guy. Born in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Sandoval moved to Arizona to attend school, then worked as an engineer at Hughes Aircraft and Lockheed. It was then he decided to join the Phoenix Fire Department. “It was something that just fit me,” he explained. “I liked helping people and the camaraderie of my fellow crew members. It gives me a lot of fulfillment.” As does his family. He and wife Lisa – a 16-year Kyrene School District employee currently working in the Exceptional Student Services

than 177,000 customers on their favorite Aldi-exclusive products from 20 categories sold by the store. Mama Cozzi’s Take & Bake Deli Pizza earned the title of overall winner and repeated as the Fan Favorite in the easy meal category, receiving more than 55,000 votes. Another back-to-back winner, Happy Farms String Cheese, secured the highest single-product vote count with 58,000 votes and a win in the kids category. Nine of the 20 winners – such as the Earth Grown Veggie Burgers, Little Journey Baby Wipes, Winking Owl Wine and Specially Selected Brioche Buns – also made the fan-favorite list for the second consecutive year. “The incredible response to our second Fan Favorites survey reinforces how much our customers love Aldi-exclusive items,” said Joan Kavanaugh, vice president of national buying. “Aldi is known for its commitment to high-quality groceries at unbeatable prices, but it’s our loyal fans who truly define us.” Kavanaugh said the survey results

Department – have two children who were raised in Ahwatukee: Christiana, 24, and Roman, 22. The couple is also enjoying being grandparents to 17-month-old Arya, their daughter’s child. An avid cyclist, Sandoval was instrumental in bringing mountain biking as a competitive sport to Desert Vista High School and has served as a volunteer coach with the Thunder mountain bike team for the past eight years. Mike Dale is head coach. In keeping with his giving back to the community ethic, Sandoval encourages local individuals or businesses who would need 911 Sanitizing to submit their name on their Facebook page where each month, one business or home up to 3,000 square feet will receive a free service. “I think it’s our responsibility to help out in our community wherever we can,” said Sandoval who credits Mountain Park Pastor Allan Fuller for his encouragement to reach out to others as part of walking the walk. “His words are inspirational, and the messages he sends out to his members are one of helping your neighbor,” said Sandoval. “Everyone has something to offer and can help in some form or another.” Information: 911sanitizing.com or 602-615-9218.  prompted the company to expand refrigerated space and include “a broader selection of meats and seafood, fresh produce and better-for-you options.” “It is exciting to see several newer items ranked the highest among fan favorites,” she said, noting many of the winners have earned the Good Housekeeping Seal and awards from other third-party organizations. The first four new stores will create a combined 90 new jobs. ALDI is currently hiring for these positions, ranging from store associates to store managers. Those interested in applying can go to careers.aldi.us/PHOENIX. Cindel said the pandemic has “reinforced how much consumers rely on us to provide the foods and items they want at the lowest possible prices. “As an essential business, we take our commitment to serving communities very seriously, and opening new stores enables us to reach, serve and support new customers across the country,” he added. The new store is at 2844 S. Alma School Road, Chandler. 

BUSINESS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

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Roth IRA makes a big difference in retirement BY DR. HAROLD WONG AFN Guest Writer

n previous articles, I’ve listed the main benefit of a Roth IRA Conversion. You will have no tax on unlimited earnings for your and spouse’s life, nor will your heirs to your Roth IRA for the first 10 years. If Biden wins the election, his tax plan outlines a number of changes that will greatly increase the benefit of doing a Roth IRA conversion now. Example #1: You and your spouse are age 60 with $122,050 of federal taxable income and your federal tax would be $18,431. You have $500,000 in a traditional 401k and decide to convert $500,000 to a Roth. Your taxable income would be $622,050 and the tax would be $167,307.50. So, the marginal federal tax cost of doing a $500,000 Roth IRA Conversion would be $167,307 - $18,431 = $148,876. Of course, if one combined the 26 percent solar tax credit with Section 179 from leasing solar business equipment, one could owe no federal tax on the $500,000 Roth IRA Conversion. Assume that you do not need most of this money when retired due to high social security and perhaps a pension. Assume that by the time both of you die; it will have grown to $4 million. Now your only child who is single inherits it and in 10 years it has grown to $6 million, when it must all be distributed. Assume that your child has other taxable income and is still working a good job. Now his tax on the $6 million times a 39.6% rate = $2,376,000. Under the Biden tax plan, the maximum federal rate increases from 37 percent to 39.6 percent. In contrast, had you done a Roth IRA Conversion, there would be NO federal income tax. Example #2: You and your spouse are both age 50 and do not plan to retire until

age 70. You have saved $500,000 in your traditional IRA. You are lucky enough to be able to retire on two Social Security checks, which total $84,000 because both waited until age 70 to take it, and you have a $26,000 pension. Assume that your IRA will be worth $4 million upon your death at 90. You also own three rental houses worth $1,000,000. You only have one child. Because you are both engineers, you like to make detailed plans for the future. If you held the three rental houses until death in 30 years, assume they would be worth $2 million. Under current tax law, with the step-up in basis, your child could sell them for $2 million upon your death, and would owe $0 federal income tax. Under the Biden tax plan, there is no step-up in basis or capital gains treatment and the full $2 million sale of the rental houses will be taxed at 39.6 percent, resulting in $792,000 federal tax (assuming that taxable income is at least $1 million). This is because your child decided to cash in your $4 million traditional IRA that he inherited. He pays 39.6 percent of $4 million = $1,584,000, or a total of $2,376,000 on what he inherited. Action plan: You decide to sell your three rental houses immediately while the market is hot. You will use the $1 million to contribute to your Roth IRA and 401k accounts over the next 20 years. You will also convert your current $500,000 to a Roth IRA. Now, your son will owe no federal income tax on the millions he will inherit. Few advisors plan for the next generation. Free information on income tax savings, retirement planning, and solar business investments can be found at drharoldwong. com or solarbusinessinvestments.com. To schedule your free consultation, please contact Dr. Harold Wong at (480) 706-0177 or harold_wong@hotmail. com. He earned his Ph.D. in economics at University of California/Berkeley and has appeared on over 400 TV/radio programs. 

GOT NEWS? Contact Paul Maryniak

at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@timespublications.com

NOVEMBER 4, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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OPINION

Opinion 34

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

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Pandemic’s glass wall between me and my mom BY CHRISTINA MCKELVY AFN Guest Writer

y weekends used to consist of seeing my mom – taking her shopping, out to eat, sometimes just spending time with her in her room. She would spend much of her time traveling down the hallways of her nursing home, saying hi to her nurses, the other residents, smiling, being joyful, being her social-butterfly-self. At the start of lockdown, my mom was adapting well, making jokes, telling me her frustration of what she had seen on the news; excited to go out and do errands with me once the lockdown was done. When COVID hit, like other nursing homes, it started with one case, then overnight, it seemed to balloon to most of the residents – my mom being one. They were already in lockdown for a month by this time. After my mom tested positive, they moved her to the COVID wing, the smiling hopeful light she once held – left. She was put in a room, unrecognizable to her. All her stuff stripped from her room, sanitized and bagged. It was her and four white empty walls. My mom, like many with dementia, can be sensitive to change. Any change in a routine, schedule or location can make her susceptible to delirium.

Being isolated in her room, unable to leave, increasingly made her confused. I would often visit by looking through her window. The nurse would open the blinds, pushing her near the window, I only could make out a slight profile of her due to the dirtiness of the glass. Pressing my phone against the glass, I would snap what would be a photo highlighting my mom’s demeanor, a way to see her clearer. She looked tired. If confusion and fear had a face, it would be hers. Using the rooms phone, or the nurses iPad, I would speak to her. A stressful conversation. My mom sometimes started yelling at me, saying she did not recognize anyone. Why would she? I hardly recognized them. Everyone she knew was gone, everything she owned put away. Her trusted nurses hid behind mask, goggles, hazmat yellow suits. Eventually she was admitted to a hospital. She was there in their COVID unit for a week – released and right back in another week. Nightly, I would speak to her, the nurses calling requesting that I talk her into taking her medication, eating, and calming down her anxiety. After my mom tested negative for COVID, she was released from the hospital, moved back to her side of the nursing

home. She was able to have more interaction and travel outside of her room down to the facilities activity room. Her confusion only slightly improved, waxing and waning between lucidity and delirium. I now can see her again, at first it meant speaking to her with a phone behind the entrance glass window. Now, we can both be outside, speaking to each other separated by a Plexiglass panel – or if I test negative for COVID, going inside, for 30 minutes. Sometimes I will visit near the end of her nap, walking over to her room and peering between the sun-worn blinds, trying to get a glimpse of her, making out her thin body covered by two blankets, appearing cold, her grayish hair falling to her shoulders. This is our “new normal.” Let me change that: “our temporary normal,” to protect our loved ones from dying from the coronavirus. This is something I get, something I understand – logically. But as I look at my mom, her body becoming frail, her skin paler, her mind more disoriented, I cannot help but wonder if the way we are trying to protect them is not slowly killing them in another form. We socially distant from loved ones, we are separated by only glass, a computer screen, or unable to go into their

room and see how they are, hold their hand while in pain, or hug them when they cry out due to confusion. No, instead, they are forgotten – slowly deteriorating, melting away behind the idea of safety. What is the solution? How do we ensure their safety, but also enable our elders to continue to live and thrive? Locking them away, speaking to them behind glass, what are the long-term mental and physical health effects? We know from studies that for some, that are placed in a residential living, such as a nursing home, they can decompensate quicker, living only a few years after being placed. We also know, that those that have social interaction and engagement slows this probable decline. As I walk away from peering between her blinds thru the dirty, hazy window, I am reminded that I am not the only one that is going through this; no, there are thousands of families that are separated by glass. She is my mom living this phase of her life sheltered away. I hope we find a solution – a cure, something. Because my mom, my social butterfly of a mom, is being forced back into her cocoon.

ents feel helpless about it. Missed assignments, lack of engagement, decreased social interaction and too much screen time are among the biggest complaints. Many of my clients are what I call “fall through the cracks” kids. They are smart, but they struggle with things like staying on task, organization, time management, and problem solving. Many of them have low frustration tolerance and coping skills. Remote learning

has made things even more difficult. We cannot just toss our children in their room in front of a computer and expect success. We must support them in this new model of learning. Here a few ways that you, as a parent, can help. Figure out what the specific struggles are. Lack of focus? Impulse control? Organization? Motivation? You may know what the issues are, or you may need to observe, talk with teachers, and do some detective work.

I call these “lagging skills” and they need support to be strengthened. Once you understand, you can systematically work through each one. Make a schedule for each day. Instead of having a loose “to-do” list or even time blocks on the calendar for classes, homework, etc., write specific tasks and what time they are to be done. This helps you organize the entire

Christina McKelvy is an Ahwatukee resident.

How to help your child’s online learning struggles BY ABIGAIL WOOL-BERINGER AFN Guest Writer

fter more than seven months, many kids have just recently returned to in-person school, while a good number remain in hybrid or fully virtual. In my practice as a pediatric occupational therapist and ADHD specialist, I have noticed one common theme: kids are struggling with online learning and par-

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OPINION

NOVEMBER 4, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

BERINGER from page 34

school and workday. This schedule should be posted for the family. Everyone in the household will know what is coming up, and there is a comforting certainty in that. Prioritize. I urge my clients to get super specific: writing out homework, due dates, and upcoming tests. Include reading and studying and how long each item will take. I recommend teens assign an “effort factor” to assignments and studying. Then, prioritize by urgency and time needed, and calendar each item into blocks. When

Maricopa County dog ID licenses are lifesavers

We are all told to have ID tags on our dogs and have them microchipped, which is a good thing. But there’s no substitute for a county dog license. First, it’s required by law to show that the dog has been vaccinated against rabies. The bigger thing, however, is that if a dog is found and turned in to a county pound, those agencies have access to nearly all the national “lost dog” resource databases as well as other counties’ records, and it makes finding the owner easier than a microchip alone. I’ve had friends complain that they don’t want to pay for the yearly license renewal (currently $19 annually in Maricopa County for spayed/ neutered dog). But it’s a solid investment should your pal go missing. And a licensed dog will be given more time in the pound for the owner to reclaim it. Further, that yearly fee goes toward maintaining the county shelters to be able to accommodate as many cats and dogs as possible. So it’s a good idea to keep that license current. It might save your dog’s life. -Marc McClenahan

Border wall is far from ‘finished’ and other facts

Jan Johnson makes, among other preposterous statements in her latest venom-filled, paranoid screed masquerading as a patriotic letter to the editor, that the border wall is “almost finished.” I know the president and his blindly loyal, cult-like followers are never ones to let pesky facts get in the way of their strongly-held opinions, but I did some checking. Rather than accept Sean Hannity’s word as gospel, one can find this out from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (gee, I hope THEY aren’t part of the Deep State, too): “As of Aug. 7, work had been completed on 30 miles of barriers where none had existed prior to Trump’s presidency... Of that amount,

the task is on the calendar, there is little chance of missed assignments – and parental sanity is sure to follow! Encourage independent problem solving but be available for help. There will be bumps in the road! Lead your child to answers but don’t jump in and solve them. Encourage your teen to contact teachers on their own, or seek peer tutoring. Empowering kids means that they must learn to solve problems through trial and error. This is their time to do that! Offer just the right amount of help. They are learning to be more independent. Set aside time for family fun. Make

sure that you make time to have fun and enjoy your family. What we are experiencing now is a season of challenges in the big picture. Your success or failure, or that of your child, does not define anyone. Take a deep breath and decide that NOT losing your mind is more important than anything else. If your relationship is suffering because of this, seek outside help and take a step back. Then plan something fun for the family! I believe that in the end, our children will come out of this experience more resilient and resourceful. Growth occurs

when we meet challenges head on. If you and your child are struggling, seek help through counseling, tutoring, or with me. I specialize in helping kids and teens in strengthening executive functioning skills. Read more about executive functions on my blog and website, kidsempowered4life.com.

five miles are “primary” barriers…. Funding had been identified for another 157 miles of new wall that’s “in the pre-construction phase,” according to the agency. I have cross-checked various sources for how much new wall has been built, as opposed to replacement fencing and barriers. The answers vary between three and five miles (whatever it is, Mexico has paid for none of it, by the way). No matter how you want to slice it, you have to be a contortionist to twist yourself into saying this means “almost finished.” ISIS has been eliminated? Uh-huh. And we’re “rounding the corner” on COVID-19, now that it hasn’t “like a miracle, disappeared from our shores.” North Korea is under control? Did you miss their latest nuke test last week? Refusal to acknowledge facts (and science), at some point, needs to be called out for what it is: willful ignorance. The corruption, relentless dishonesty and incompetence of this president and his enablers is staring us square in the face. It’s invisible only to those who choose not to see it. -Scott Cox

know who is elected as the next President. So it may appear as it is an exercise in futility. However, there were so many mistruths in the letter “President subjected to outrageous abuse” last week that I felt compelled to at least respond to some of them with actual facts. Let me verify “facts” about Trump’s “achievements”: • 6.6 million removed from poverty. This is a number from the WH website which was also provided by Ivanka Trump. The truth about this is at best in question. Statista.com, which is not affiliated with any party but keeps track of poverty levels as well as other statistics, shows the 2019 number at 10.8 percent. A drop of 1.8% under Trump. Just for comparison... Obama dropped the poverty level by 2.8 percent in his time of office. The numbers for 2020 are still not out (they are compiled after the tax season) but my guess is with the COVID-19 impact, the number will be higher not lower so Trump actually would have raised the number of people in poverty during his time in office. Even with 2019 numbers Obama beats Trump. • Historic low unemployment. The government itself keeps track of this number. When Obama left office the unemployment rate was 4.7 percent. The present unemployment rate under Trump is 7.9 percent. That is not a historic low by my math. Obama wins again! • The wall almost built. There is 1,900-mile border between the US and Mexico and 545 miles were already built under previous presidents. All factual accounts and even the WH does not make a claim to have built the complete wall. In fact, Trump claims that he will complete 500 miles by the end of the year and that too will be replacement for the existing 545 miles already built. Almost is a far stretch. Yeah Mexico paid for this too – not! The cost is $50 million per mile. That is $25 billion for 500 miles folks. • ISIS eliminated. To take credit for this is at

best very opportunistic. We only had advisors at hand. The Kurds did all the hard work and fighting and then the Russians and regular Syrian army finished ISIS off with their indiscriminate bombing. The region is still in shambles and the Kurds have been thrown under the bus by Trump and left to fend for themselves. The folks there have been left to slaughter under COVID-19. It is sad to see how our initial involvement under another GOP President has turned the whole region into total chaos. • Manufacturing jobs brought back to the US. This is a very hollow claim especially when there is no way of verifying this. I tried. The only numbers you get is the unemployment rate and as shown previously, unemployment is up, not down. • Middle class tax-cut. The tax cut has proven to be a bigger boon to the top 1 percent. As a result, the deficit has sky-rocketed. This tax-cut does not take into account the impact of COVID-19 and the subsequent job loss for millions of working Americans. A true measure and impact are hard to come by as a result. • No Korean missiles aimed at Japan, US and S. Korea. There is no way to measure this claim. In a recent parade, a huge ICBM was showcased by Kim Jung-Un. Trump’s “love affair” with Kim, has only aided and abetted a ruthless ruler and killer of his own people to build a bigger ICBM. I wouldn’t tout that “achievement.” Trumps re-election would have been a cake walk if it were not for his total inept handling of the virus and efforts to control it, with 225,000 people who have needlessly lost their lives. China, Japan, S. Korea and a host of other countries did the right thing and controlled their deaths to less than 10,000. We only have 5 percent of the population and the world’s “best” healthcare and economy and yet we are number 1 in the death toll? Why? I don’t want an incompetent person leading my country, so my vote is: Trump, you are fired. -Stan Dsouza

Abigail WooI-Beringer is an Ahwatukee pediatric occupational therapist and ADHD specialist can be reached at kidsempowered4life@gmail.com or 602-753-7441. 

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Postal workers deserve plaudits for their work

Despite the Administration’s false hysteria that the USPS will slow deliver during the election cycle, the massive early voting turnout proves that our country can move in the direction of democracy. I dropped my ballot in the mail and was assured by the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office it was received, signature-verified and counted. Thank you, Letter Carriers and Postal Workers, for your Herculean efforts made to get my ballot to the voting machines. -CJ Briggle

Addressing mistruths about Trump’s accomplishments

By the time this letter will be printed in the weekly Ahwatukee news, we would already

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

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Mountain Pointe mauled by Corona del Sol, falls to 0-5 BY ZACH ALVIRA AFN Sports Editor

hants of “we run Tempe” and “we run ‘Tukee” echoed across Haskell Henshaw Stadium from Corona del Sol’s postgame huddle. It was a not-so-subtle jab at the Aztecs’ district rivals and opposing 6A schools in nearby Ahwatukee. Earlier in the season, Corona del Sol knocked off Desert Vista in convincing fashion. On Friday night, the Aztecs completed the sweep of Ahwatukee schools with a 45-9 rout over Mountain Pointe. “I didn’t come up with it, but, I mean, I agree with it,” Corona del Sol senior quarterback Quade Swearingen laughed. “We wanted to come out and punch them in the mouth and execute our game plan. With that attitude, I feel like we are going to win a lot of games and put pressure on people.” Corona del Sol, a physical team by nature, aimed to establish that same type of presence against a Mountain Pointe team that at times can return the blows. But an injury on Mountain Pointe’s �irst

Mountain Pointe was unable to find any rhythm on offense and struggled stopping Corona del Sol’s offense in the Pride’s fifth straight loss of the season. (Zac BonDurant/AFN Contributor)

defensive play to senior captain and defensive end Zach Hay seemed to strip all energy from the Pride’s sideline. Hay remained on the Pride bench for the remainder of the game and used crutches to keep pressure of the injured left ankle.

Mountain Pointe coach Eric Lauer said that injury, while early, was an early turning point. “Zach going down the �irst play, you could almost feel it, our wind went out,” Lauer said. “Then some things just kind of

continued to spiral against us. Our resiliency hasn’t been fully built up yet. “No excuses, that’s just where we are right now.” Hay’s injury added to the already long list of players sidelined for the Pride. Short handed, they had few answers for Corona’s high-powered offense. Led by Swearingen and 6-foot-1, 225-pound running back Anyale Velazquez, the Aztecs made quick work on their �irst offensive possession. Corona’s opening 65-yard drive was capped off by a 9-yard run by Swearingen. A Mountain Pointe fumble on the ensuing possession led to a 2-yard run by Velazquez. The Aztecs knew they were in position to put the game away in a hurry. “Every one of us trust each other,” Swearingen said. “Things haven’t started to go in the wrong direction for us so far, but we know if it does, we have each other’s back through thick and thin.” A touchdown passes from Swearingen to wideouts Jake Schmitt and Mitch-

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Kennard-led Arizona Jaguars to play in youth nationals BY ZACH ALVIRA AFN Sports Editor

Valley youth football team has received the opportunity of a lifetime, as it will �ly to Florida in early December to compete for a national championship at the 12U level. The Arizona Jaguars, coached by former NFL defensive lineman and current Desert Vista line coach Derek Kennard Jr., received the invitation to the National Youth Championships for the American Youth Football League from Dec. 4-12, one of the largest national tournaments on the youth football circuit. “We want to represent Arizona,” Kennard said. “It’s an honor to be going out there and it will be an awesome experi-

ence for our kids. Our goal is to win a championship.” Kennard founded the Jags organization three years ago when his son, Derek “Tre” Kennard III, was 9 years old. The team is made up of players from all over the Valley, including many from Ahwatukee, Chandler, Gilbert and Mesa. Kennard said it’s also common for parents from northwest Phoenix drive to Tempe or Pecos Park in Ahwatukee for their kids to join the Jags. While only two games into the regular season against league competition, the Jags played a prestigious preseason schedule which helped earn the invitation. Kennard said his team faced several out-of-state teams, including some from California and the surrounding states. Overall, the Jags sit at 8-1 on the year, most

The Arizona Jaguars, a 12U team based in the East Valley and coached by Desert Vista line coach Derek Kennard Jr., will head to Florida in December to compete at the National Youth Championships for the American Youth Football League. (Courtesy Derek Kennard Jr.)

of which having come during preseason. “We’ve been stacking up our competition so we could get the best looks possible,” Kennard said. “We just want to make

sure we are as prepared as possible for when we go to Florida.”

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

PRIDE �� 37

ell Coakley, along with another rushing touchdown by Velazquez helped Corona quickly build to a 35-point lead at the half. Velazquez managed to �ind the end zone once more in the third. The junior �inished with 108 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Swearingen, who accounted for three total touchdowns of his own, was 11-of-16 for 149 yards through the air. Mountain Pointe managed to get on the board late in the �irst half with a 26-yard Jack Barker �ield goal. As time expired, sophomore quarterback Chris Arviso found junior wideout Isaiah Ice-Robinson for a 14-yard touchdown. Aside from the late-game score, the Pride struggled to muster up any offense. Junior quarterback Amier Boyd struggled to �ind holes in Corona’s secondary. He completed just four of his nine pass attempts for 55 yards and an interception. Sophomore running back Robert Moore III, in his �irst game since having to sit half the season due to transfer rules, found little room to run and had just 30 yards on the ground. As a team, Mountain Pointe had 192 total yards of offense, but was unable to �ind the end zone until the �inal play of the game.

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Kennard hopes to make it a trip of a lifetime for his players. But that comes with a price. The Jags have spent much of the month fundraising any way they can to help pay for every player to travel to Florida. Kennard aims to use the funds raised to pay for �lights, three large rental vans and two Airbnb houses where players, coaches and the parents able to go can stay. Kennard estimates the total trip to be around $20,000, which also includes fees to compete at nationals and food for everyone for the week. The Jags have done everything from selling promotional cards to fundraisers at local restaurants. On Thursday, Oct. 29, Some Burros in Ahwatukee donated 30 percent of all pre-taxed food sales to the Jags. Kennard said the team is also accept-

Desert Vista falls to Hamilton, drops to 0-5

Desert Vista’s defense held strong for a majority of the first half before the Thunder ultimately fell to nationally ranked Hamilton on Friday night. (Zac BonDurant/AFN Contributor)

“I felt we had a good week of practice, but when it comes to man-on-man you have to execute,” Lauer said. “We just aren’t executing well. Every time we walk over to the video we see where it broke down. Guys see their effort just isn’t good enough.” Despite a rough start to the season, Mountain Pointe (0-5) and its coaches refuse to quit. Lauer’s “Embrace the Chase”

ing donations via Venmo, Cash App and GoFundMe. “We are trying to do everything we can,” Kennard said. “It’s a tough time with COVID and with it being in December it’s right before the holidays. We are trying to be proactive to raise as much as we can.” Not only will the trip be special for Kennard as a coach, but as a parent. Tre grew up hearing stories about his grandfather, Derek Kennard Sr., who played several years in the NFL on the offensive line. He also heard about his father’s career, which led him to play for the Indianapolis Colts and in the Canadian Football League. His uncle, Devon Kennard, had an illustrious career at Desert Vista and USC before he was drafted by the New York Giants in 2014. An outside linebacker, Devon played four years in New York, two in Detroit before he was signed by the Arizona Cardi-

mantra continues to lead to players and parents alike to buy in to the process. The Pride will face Mountain View (5-0) next Friday at Karl Kiefer Stadium. “They’re not coached to give up, cave or fold,” Lauer said. “We need to make sure our Monday through Thursday continues to get better. It’s a blue-collar thing, we need to get back to work.” 

nals before the start of the 2020 season. Tre, however, has gone in a slightly different direction in terms of football compared to his father and other relatives. Kennard said he didn’t get the classic family genes, which include a build similar to an offensive and defensive lineman. Instead, Tre has found his niche at defensive back. Kennard said he’s more athletic at 12 years old than him, Derek Sr. and Devon were at the same age. “We were all athletic for our positions I’m sure. But I can assure you none of us were playing corner,” Kennard laughed. “To be able to coach my son’s team, it’s been so much fun. Just being able to be on the �ield with him and experience that, it’s a special thing.” Kennard hopes to continue a strong regular season before he and the Jags head to Florida to represent the state at the 12U

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Undersized at most positions, Desert Vista gave the nationally ranked Hamilton Huskies all it could in Friday night’s 38-17 loss. Desert Vista’s defense held strong throughout a majority of the �irst half, limiting the Huskies high-powered offense to just 16 points until the last two minutes of the second quarter. Eventually, Hamilton built a large lead led by four-star junior quarterback Nicco Marchiol. The Thunder, however, managed to �ind the end zone twice in the second half and kicked a �ield goal, continuing to provide hope for a young team still trying to navigate its way through a dif�icult 6A schedule. Unfortunately for Desert Vista, however, the road ahead doesn’t get much easier. The Thunder will host four-time defending champion and the No. 4 ranked team in the nation in Chandler (5-0) Friday. level. No matter the outcome, he looks forward to providing a unique experience for all of his players. “My passion is the youth,” Kennard said. “Whether it’s high school or younger age. I’ve had these kids since 10U and just to install the basic fundamentals into them, so they are correctly taught going into whatever level they go to next, we want to send them away better than they came. “We want to give the kids the chance to not only represent the state, but to experience some of that national talent out there.”  Donations to the Arizona Jaguars 12U trip to Florida can be made via Cash App using $AZJAGS, Venmo at @AZJAGS or via GoFundME at gf.me/u/y4tqy3. Contact azjaguarsfootballclub@gmail.com for more information.

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Film fest to show movie based on Ahwatukee author’s book GETOUT STAFF

hwatukee residents who are curious about how well a neighbor’s popular novel translated into a feature-length movie will have their chance this weekend as the Scottsdale International Film Festival opens in a notsurprising online venue. “Butter,” written by Erin Jade Lange and adapted for film by Emmy Award-winning director and producer Paul A. Kaufmann, is part of the festival, which is following in the footsteps of other such movie events by partnering with Eventive to host its 20th anniversary fest online Nov. 6-10. Lange is the pen name for Kyrene School District communications manage Erin Helm, a former TV journalist who has written several young adult novels. “Butter,” her first and most successful, “Butter” is about a 423-pound lonely teen who won that nickname after an incident in which he was bullied into eating an entire stick of dirty butter. Constantly belittled and sick of life, he goes online to announce that he will eat himself to death during a live webcast on New Year’s Eve – and suddenly finds himself invited to hang out with the “it” crowd, which includes the girl of his dreams. Their morbid curiosity and fake friendship combine to egg him on in his suicidal plan, create deadly bucket lists for him and place bets on what he will eat for his last meal. The page-turning plot and Butter’s intentions go through a series of rollercoaster twists and turns. “This book seriously packed a punch,” wrote one reviewer. It also attracted the attention of Kaufmann, who has produced 23 movies and among other things directed the top-rated CBS television series “Criminal Minds” as well as the highly acclaimed TV movie “Magic Beyond Words: The JK Rowling Story.” Kaufmann had been shopping for a film festival to premier “Butter” when he was invited to premier it at the 30-year-old Cinequest Film Festival as one of the 130

films from around the world that it introduces to the world annually. Lange has been particularly excited about the fact that the film includes This is a scene from “Butter,” the movie based on a young adult novel by Ahwatukee author Jade Lange that will be shown this weekend as part of the Scottsdale International Film Oscar winner Erin Festival, which is all online. (Special to GetOut) Mira Sorvino “Suddenly, we were offered an opportuas the mother of Butter, played by Alex nity with the Film Festival Alliance (FFA), Kersteig. Amy Ettinger, Scottsdale Film Festival which is a peer group of film festivals that executive director, seized on an alternate network throughout the United States, plan early in the pandemic and recalls to do a streaming event and it was called that in late February telling her board her Film Festival Day,” she said. “More than dipping our toes in the pond, concern about an “impending coronavirus we really got our feet wet (and) could see invasion of our shores.” The board didn’t come to a consensus, that, wow, our audience is really willing to so the idea was tabled. Weeks later, every- do this. We didn’t think our patrons would ever go along with it.” thing changed. “I think word travels fast because sud“It was shocking – the March board meeting – how much had unfolded in 30 denly we had various distributors knockshort days,” Ettinger said, noting meetings ing on our door, asking us would we conhad switched to a virtual format. “There sider ‘this’ or ‘that’ or the other streamer?” still were no clear options at that moment she continued. “They were all different price points and all different kinds of conin the March meeting.” tent and as time has gone by, we’ve seen what works, what doesn’t work, what people will do, what people won’t do.” Observing streamed film festivals, Ettinger began researching the idea and having it tested, including hosting streamers on the Scottsdale festival’s website. It’s now a reality. “We had garnered a considerable amount of momentum from last year as a film festival,” Ettinger said. “We finally hit our stride and had, gosh, 11 really high-profile premieres. It just would have been a real shame to not do something this season to, A) celebrate the 20th but, B) also acknowledge that we are a force now to be reckoned with.” The streaming slate has been reduced Ahwatukee resident Erin Helm has published several and duration cut by half to make schedyoung adult novels under the pen name Erin Jade Lange. (GetOut ﬁle photo) uling more manageable for viewers, Et-

tinger said. Set for five days, this year’s festival will feature 20 films from around the world. “Butter” is listed in the festival’s “Whimsical/Humorous” category. Other films include the Dutch dark comedy “Boy Meets Gun,” the Canadian drama “Rustic Oracle,” the Greek drama “Window to the Sea,” and the Israeli documentary “Aulcie.” The documentary is about basketball player Aulcie Perry, who led Maccabi Tel Aviv to an upset win in the European Championship. Other represented countries include Brazil, China, Finland, France, Germany, India, Iran, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Most films will be available for the festival’s duration and Ettinger said viewers can “basically build your own festival to watch things in any timeframe that you want.” “Boy Meets Gun” is only available for 48 hours beginning Nov. 7. The films can only be streamed in Arizona. Some screenings include prerecorded Q&As with the filmmakers. The Phoenix Film Critics Society awards will be presented on the first night, Ettinger said, to allow festival attendees to plan their schedules accordingly. Viewers

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Scottsdale Film Festival Executive Director Amy Ettinger saved the annual event by taking it online. (Special to GetOut)

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NOVEMBER 4, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Polo event returns with new charities BY KAMALA KIRK GetOut Contributor

ince 2011, the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships has been the United States’ premier polo event, attracting thousands of people from around the world, including top polo players, sponsors and celebrities. This year’s event will return on Saturday, Nov. 7 under a new name, The Stella Artois Polo Classic: Presented by Ketel One, accompanied by social distanced safety measures and a focus on helping charities, schools and nonprofits. “This year we wanted to send a different message to everyone,” said Jason Rose, the event’s co-founder and co-owner. “We still want people to come out and have a great time, but things are going to be a little different due to the current environment. We’ve had to balance everything in order to put together this year’s event. Next year, we expect to return to our original name and event.” The Polo Classic will be held at WestWorld of Scottsdale at 10:30 a.m. with three polo matches. Arizona Polo Club and Andres Camacho Castilla will play Colombia in the featured match. The signature charity match – The EPR Polo introduces The Celebrity Cruises Match Up supporting Arizona Equine Rescue and Southwest Wildlife – will be the highest goal polo match, featuring professional players John Gobin and Jared Sheldon. “We have some professional polo players participating in our featured match that have never played at the event before, so we’re very excited that some of the best polo players in the world will be able to experience this unique event for the first time,” Rose said. Attendees can also look forward to the presence of local restaurants and food trucks, a selection of unique sculptures

FESTIVAL from page 40

can also vote on the Audience Award for Best Film as the festival progresses. Single tickets cost $9.99; VIP passes are $170; and multi-ticket discount packages are available in bundles of five or 10 for $45 or $90, respectively. Sales of passes and packages end Nov. 5. Several films are

sized tents, the Polo Classic will be entirely openair with umbrellas and feature an extensive social distancing plan that includes expanded sideline parking and lawn seating, an elevated South Road seating option, and reserved seating areas with more space between tables. Other measures The annual polo championship games in Scottsdale, which will be held next Saturday, and protocols will have been rebranded and redesigned to protect visitors from COVID-19. (Special to GetOut) include mandatory by acclaimed artist Pete Deise, the Molina masks, temperature checks and sanitation Fine Jewelers VIP Lounge, Sanderson Lin- stations. coln Black Label Lounge, the Barrett-JackThe event was also certified by son Outdoor Polo & Jazz Lounge, and a dis- HealthyVerify, a medically based, scientific play of collector cars, including McLarens. and professional full-service certification Between matches, The World’s Longest company that has partnered with ASU Catwalk Fashion Show will be presented and Barrow Neurological Institute to help by Phoenix Fashion Week, as well as The minimize the spread of infectious diseases. Lugari Canine Couture Dog Fashion Show. By going a step further with the addiNew sponsors include Celebrity Cruises, Mark-Taylor Residential, Bud Light Seltzer and McLaren Scottsdale. Another sponsor is the “Million Dollar Mingle,” a high-profile luxury fundraising organization led by former NFL player AC Caswell. Limited tickets will be available for the 2020 event and must be purchased in advance as a result of Jason Rose, seen here with his wife Jordan, is co-owner and co-founder of the new safety protocols. Stella Artois Polo Classic that will gallup into WestWorld in Scottsdale next In lieu of its over- Saturday. (Special to GetOut) available on a first-come, first-served basis and may sell out. “We really just consider it a massive victory to still be on our feet,” she said. “There are a lot of festivals this year that didn’t happen ...And so the celebration for us is we didn’t have to miss our 20th year.” She feels the pandemic has opened the door to new opportunities that can con-

tinue when the festival returns to an inperson format – such as a new balloting system for the audience to vote and an app the festival can continue to use. Ettinger said having an online component allows participation from those who otherwise would miss out. “We are still taking probably one of the biggest risks we’ve ever taken in mounting

tional verification, Rose wants to ensure guests’ comfort, safety and confidence during the event. “This year we want to let the event breathe and we’ve expanded our sideline parking, which people love because you can drive your car right up to the field,” he said. “We’ve also done away with our Birds Nest area at the entrance, where people would dance and drink amidst all the action. We still have some spectacular VIP sections and we’ve also created space for charities so they can raise money at the event.” Charities and nonprofits are the other main focus of this year’s event, which is dedicated to helping schools and organizations whose fundraising and operations were devastated in the past months. The Polo Classic is offering the chance for local charities to raise money utilizing its unique platform and event and all participating organizations will keep all of the revenue generated from ticket and table sales. A post-event concert with local rock legend Roger Clyne will take place adjacent to the field and is being produced by Scottsdale Airpark-based R Entertainment. Tickets for the concert are available separately at scottsdaleconcertseries.com. “We’re really excited about the concert and are planning to include that as part of our program in the upcoming years,” Rose said. “When we first created this in 2011, our goal was to create the Phoenix Open of polo, and now people around the world know about our event. Some of the best and most famous polo players have played here, and we’ve been blessed to have wonderful partners and sponsors throughout the years. “Every year we’ve been audacious and creative, putting things out there that have created an atmosphere that is unlike anything else in the world of polo.” Tickets start at $20. Information: thepoloparty.com  this festival, and participating by way of buying a single ticket or a package of five or 10 films or even a VIP pass cannot be more appreciated on our part,” Ettinger said. “We really need everybody in the community on board with us this year so that we can do better than limp into 2021.” Information: scottsdalefilmfestival. com. 

GET OUT

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

Build your own pasta bowl at this eatery GETOUT STAFF

any restaurants have taken a major economic hit from the pandemic this year, but that hasn’t stopped a Arizona’s first build-your-own pasta from opening. The Pesto Italian Eatery, which opened two days ago at 2780 W. Chandler Blvd., gives guests the opportunity to enjoy fresh, homemade pasta and sauces in a casual environment at an affordable price point. The restaurant is led by Cosmo Magliozzi, who is bringing his passion for high-quality Italian cuisine cultivated by his father, Antonio Magliozzi – a retired celebrity chef and restauranteur who gained recognition for his popularity among well-known clients such as Tom Cruise, Sylvester Stallone and even former President Bill Clinton. “I am thrilled to be able to share the fresh pasta and sauces that were inspired by my father, Chef Antonio Magliozzi, with our guests,” founder Cosmo Magliozzi said. “To be able to bring his authentic Italian approach to cooking to a fast-casual

Arizona’s first build-your-own-pasta bowl restaurant has opened in Chandler just across the I-10 from Ahwatukee, featuring a number of ways patrons can dress up their dish according to their liking. (Special to GetOut)

concept for everyone to try is an honor.” At Pasta 78, guests build their own pasta bowl by choosing one of the several homemade, fresh pasta options as well as a house made sauce, protein and toppings. Pasta 78 will have a rotation of several pastas including a gluten-free option. The primary pasta options will include two long noodle variations and two short noodles, made fresh on-site every day. The restaurant will also serve several

homemade pasta sauces including a signature marinara and pesto, as well as specialty rotating options such as lobster cream and the famous Italian tuna red sauce. A variety of proteins and vegetables are also available to add to the pasta, including meatballs, sausage, chicken, pancetta, grilled artichoke and eggplant, to name a few. From there, every bowl will be topped with Pasta 78’s specialty blend of cheeses and fresh basil, then served with a tradi-

tional Italian breadstick. Additionally, Pasta 78 will offer several grab-and-go salad options including a mixed green salad, Caprese salad and an Italian tuna salad made from the family’s traditional recipe. Dessert options will include classic Italian favorites such as torta della nonna, cannoli and sfogliatella. Information: pestoeatery.com or follow on Facebook. 

NOVEMBER 4, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

NOVEMBER 4, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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AHWATUKEE SPECIAL $

Off 40work done *Any

Bonded/Insured • ROC #223709

Voted #1 Paint Interior & Exterior • Drywall Repair Light Carpentry • Power Washing • Textures Matched Popcorn Removal • Pool Deck Coatings Garage Floor Coatings • Color Consulting

Plumbing

10% OFF

SERVICE • REPAIR • REPLACEMENT

We Beat Competitors Prices & Quality

We offer personalized service for our customers. We use the best materials that we can find.

Free Estimates! Home of the 10-Year Warranty!

480-688-4770

www.eastvalleypainters.com Family Owned & Operated Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131

Now Accepting all major credit cards

Looking To Freshen Up Your Home? WE CAN HELP!

480-405-7099 ItsJustPlumbSmart.com

CLASSIFIEDS 480-898-6465 class@timespublications.com

Owned and Operated by Rod Lampert Ahwatukee Resident Serving Ahwatukee for over 25 years

Our services include: Sinks, Toilets, Faucets, Water Heaters, Garbage Disposal, Drain Cleaning, Pressure Reducing Valves, Pressure Vacuum Breakers, Hot Water Circulation Systems, Main Service Valves and Hose Taps.

(480) 279-4155 Licensed • Bonded • Insured • ROC 189848

Plumbing

Pool Service / Repair 1st Month of Service FREE For a limited time

Call Now!

Ahw Resident • Owner Operated Maintenance & Repair Professional and Superior Service

We maintain, repair and service all types of pools, equipment, filters, cleaning systems, fresh water and salt water systems

Proudly Serving Ahwatukee for 15 Years! Family Owned & Operated

Call me, Howard:

480.231.9651

Residential & Commercial Painting

PLUMBING

• Interior & Exterior • Professional Cabinet Reﬁnishing • Epoxy Floors & Concrete Coatings • In-Home Color Consultations “Professional, Punctual & Clean”

$35.00 Off Any Service Call Today!

A+ RATED

Veteran Owned

We Repair or Install www.ACPpaintingllc.com Licensed - Bonded - Insured ROC 290242

FREE ESTIMATES • CALL TODAY!

(480)785-6323

ROC # 272721

AHWATUKEE’S #1 PLUMBER Licensed • Bonded • Insured

704.5422

(480)

AZPoolExpert.com BBB Member Not a licensed contractor.

Juan Hernandez

Pavers • Concrete • Water Features • Sprinkler Repair

PPebbleOcracking, O L Plaster R Epeeling, P ARebar IR showing, Pool Light out? I CAN HELP!

FALL SPECIAL! $500 OFF COMPLETE REMODEL! 25 Years Experience • Dependable & Reliable

Call Juan at

480-720-3840 Not a licensed contractor.

CLASSIFIEDS Pool Service / Repair

$25 OFF

BEST PLACE TO MAKE

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

Rooﬁng

Over 30 Years of Experience Family Operated by 3 Generations of Roofers!

Spencer 4 HIRE ROOFING

Filter Cleaning!

Valley Wide Service

Monthly Service & Repairs Available

602-546-POOL 7 6 6 5

www.barefootpoolman.com See our Before’s and After’s on Facebook

CLASS@ TIMESPUBLICATIONS. COM MORE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE! www.Ahwatukee.com

Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC# 272001

Rooﬁng

602-938-7575 $ 1000 OFF

Tiles, shingles, flat, repairs & new work Free Estimates • Ahwatukee Resident Over 30 yrs. Experience

480-706-1453

Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099

TILE ROOFING SPECIALISTS

when you show this ad

on qualifying complete roof replacements

Let us show you the IN-EX Difference!

10% OFF COMPLETE UNDERLAYMENT

Serving The Valley Since 1996

Commercial & Residential Family Owned & Operated AZROC #283571 | CONTRACTOR LIC. AZROC #312804 CLASS CR4 | FULLY INSURED

FREE ESTIMATES 602-736-3019 480-699-2754 • info@monsoonroofinginc.com

10% Discount for Ahwatukee Residents 100% NO Leak Guarantee Re-Roof & Roofing Repairs Tile, Shingles & Flat Roof

inexroofing.com Call for your FREE Roof Evaluation

ROC #152111

Complimentary & Honest Estimates

Licensed – Bonded – Insured – ROC187561

Call our office today!

Family Operated by 3 Generations of Roofers! We have a “Spencer” on every job

480-460-7602

and every step of the way.

Ask us about our discount for all Military and First Responders!

www.porterroofinginc.com

480-446-7663 Ahwatukee’s Premier Tile, Shingle & Foam Roofer!

FREE Estimates • Credit Cards OK www.spencer4hirerooﬁng.com ROC#244850 | Insured | Bonded

10% OFF with this ad

Ahwatukee’s Premier Tile, Shingle & Foam Roofer! FREE Estimates • Credit Cards OK www.spencer4hirerooﬁng.com ROC#244850 | Insured | Bonded NOTICE TO READERS:

Family Owned & Operated for over 30 years

Quality Repairs & Re-Roofs

MonsoonRooﬁngInc.com

480-446-7663

Most service advertisers have an ROC# or "Not a licensed contractor" in their ad, this is in accordance to the AZ state law. Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC): The advertising requirements of the statute does not prevent anyone from placing an ad in the yellow pages, on business cards, or on flyers. What it does require under A.R.S. §32-1121A14(c) http://www.azleg.gov/ars/32/01165.htm, is that the advertising party, if not properly licensed as a contractor, disclose that fact on any form of advertising to the public by including the words "not a licensed contractor" in the advertisement. Again, this requirement is intended to make sure that the consumer is made aware of the unlicensed status of the individual or company.

Licensed • Bonded • Insured ROC # 269218

Licensed, Bonded, Insured

SELL YOUR CAR IN THE CLASSIFIEDS! 2 WEEKS STARTING AT $20.80

480.898.6465

CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

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 _law.html As a consumer, being aware of the law is for your protection. You can check a businesses ROC status at: http://www.azroc.gov/

CLASSIFIEDS

NOVEMBER 4, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

palmabrisa.com

NOW SELLING

A new gated resort community is coming soon in the Ahwatukee Foothills with a dramatically different style. It feels exclusive, but also lively and exciting — and it's called Palma Brisa. • Modern resort-style gated community with stately palms

• Diverse architecture: Modern Bungalow, Urban Farmhouse, Italian Cottage, Andalusian, Modern Craftsman, French Country, and Spanish Mission • Four amenity areas connected by expansive lawns

• Homes from 1,700 sq. ft. to 4,000 sq. ft. from the $400’s

ERIC WILLIAMS

480-641-1800

TERRY LENTS

© Copyright 2019 Blandford Homes, LLC. No offer to sell or lease may be made prior to issuance of Final Arizona Subdivision Public Report. Offer, terms, and availability subject to change without prior notice. Renderings are artist’s conceptions and remain subject to modification without notice.

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 4, 2020

WINTER IS COMING,

DON’T GET CAUGHT IN THE LEAF’S ** Get up to

3,899

in dealer Rebates

–and–

No interest if paid in full within 18 months on a qualifying trane purchase

Includes a 16-Point FALL Inspection. $ Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the TUNE-UP LIMITED TIME ONLY purchase balance is not paid in full within the promotional period. RESIDENTIAL ONLY SPECIAL! REG. $99. YOUR HOMETOWN AIR CONDITIONING SPECIALIST Service Call Second Option Estimates

FREE

(WITH REPAIR)

SINCE 1982 ROC #C39-312643

480-725-7303 www.BrewersAC.com **See your independent dealer for complete program eligibility, dates, details and restrictions. Special financing offers valid on qualifying equipment only. Special rebates from $75 to $500. All sales must be to homeowners in the United States. Void where prohibited. The Wells Fargo Home Projects credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. This information is accurate as of 1/1/2020 and is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921. The offer expires 12/31/2020.