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INSIDE

This Week

NEWS ............... 10

Oﬃcer Ginarro New remembered as exceptional

FEATURES ........ 24 Wild Giants giving fans a ‘souvenir’ at upcoming show

YOUTH ............. 31 Area students are doing remarkable things. Read about them in Student Chronicles.

OPINION ................... 14 BUSINESS ................. 19 FEATURES ................ 21 YOUTH ...................... 31 CLASSIFIEDS ............ 32 Zone I

Serving the communities of Anthem, Desert Hills, Norterra, Sonoran Foothills, Stetson Valley, Tramonto, New River, Desert Ridge and North Phoenix

Anthem Area Edition

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Wednesday, June 16, 2021

Anthem hosts public safety roundtable BY ALEX GALLAGHER Foothills Focus Staff Writer

he Anthem Community Council held its first in-person public safety roundtable since the COVID-19 outbreak. June 8, first responders from Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office and the Phoenix Police Department shared updates on cases and statistics while the Daisy Mountain Fire Department and Anthem Community Council addressed their concerns.

see ROUNDTABLE page 4

The public safety roundtable discussion sparked discussions about fireworks, wildfire and safety in the park on June 8. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

Daisy Mountain Fire contains brush blaze BY TARA ALATORRE Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

ore than 60 firefighters battled a brush fire that consumed nearly 4 acres of land west of Interstate 17 and north of Pioneer Road on June 2. Daisy Mountain Fire and Medical (DMFM) along with units from Phoenix Fire, Peoria Fire and Medical, Glendale Fire, Arizona Fire and Medical Authority, Bureau of Land Management and Arizona Department of Fire and Forestry management worked together to contain the blaze.

No injuries nor structure damage were reported, according to Daisy Mountain Fire and Medical’s Public Information Officer Brent Fenton. “The fire was threatening the Pioneer RV Park, Pioneer Living History Museum and a federal prison,” Fenton said. “Crews were able to quickly stop the forward progress of the fire and prevent it from spreading to any nearby structures.” Crews remained on the scene for several hours extinguishing the fire and ensuring hotspots were contained. The fire was human caused and is still un-

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der investigation, Fenton said. “The public plays a valuable role in preventing wildfires. Always keep outdoor safety in mind,” DMFM said in a statement to the press. “Wildfires can start from vehicles, campfire or debris burning on private property.” The Daisy Mountain Fire District — which includes Anthem, Black Canyon City, Desert Hills and New River — implemented Stage II fire restrictions on June 1, due to the extreme fire danger conditions.

see FIRE page 5

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An edition of the East Valley Tribune The Foothills Focus is published every Wednesday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout the North Valley. To find out where you can pick up a copy of The Foothills Focus, please visit www.thefoothillsfocus.com CONTACT INFORMATION Main number: 623-465-5808 | Fax: 623-465-1363 Circulation: 480-898-5641 Publisher: Steve T. Strickbine Vice President: Michael Hiatt Associate Publisher: Eric Twohey | 480-898-5634 | erict@thefoothillsfocus.com ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Display Advertising: 623-465-5808 Classifieds/Inside Sales: Elaine Cota | 480-898-7926 | ecota@timespublications.com TJ Higgins | 480-898-5902 | tjhiggins@timespublications.com Steve Insalaco | 480-898-5635 | sinsalaco@timespublications.com Advertising Office Manager: Lori Dionisio | 480-898-6309 | ldionisio@timespublications.com Director of National Advertising Zac Reynolds | 480-898-5603 | zac@thefoothillsfocus.com NEWS DEPARTMENT Executive Editor: Christina Fuoco-Karasinski | 480-898-5631 christina@timespublications.com Photographer: Pablo Robles | probles@timespublications.com Design: Nathalie Proulx | nproulx@timespublications.com Production Coordinator: Courtney Oldham | 480-898-5617 production@timespublications.com Circulation Director: Aaron Kolodny | 480-898-5641 | customercare@evtrib.com Proud member of :

The Foothills Focus 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@azintegratedmedia.com

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 16, 2021

ROUNDTABLE from page 1

Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) reported that, overall, crime has been down since the pandemic began. They are unsure if there is a correlation between the pandemic and the crime rate, but they have seen a notable decrease. Though crime has been down, the office’s detectives have had their hands full. Detectives recently met with the Chino Valley Police Department to interview a suspect it detained in connection with a slew of auto thefts that occurred in multiple jurisdictions, including Phoenix. The case is set to go to the county attorney, and the sheriff’s office was happy to share that the suspect didn’t harm anyone and the stolen vehicles’ keys were recovered. “Thank God nobody was hurt because this guy didn’t care if anybody was hurt. He was just entering and taking,” said MCSO Detective Tyler Thompson. MCSO started a new schedule on June 14 that calls for two more deputies. A speed radar will be used during the day, once they have extra staff. “Our captain’s top priority is to do more traffic control and speed enforcement,” Detective Sgt. Bob Hanson said.

Phoenix Police Department Phoenix Police Department reported that in 2020 it received 935 calls for service in Anthem. Of those 935 calls, 837 were dispatched and 98 were calls made by officers in the line of duty. They also reported 163 crimes in 2020. Forty-three of those crimes were offenses like assault and domestic violence. The other 120 were property crimes ranging from theft to fraud and forgery. However, when comparing the first five months of 2021 to the first five months of 2020, the department has seen drops in several categories it measures. In the first five months of 2020, Phoenix Police received 378 calls for service and have received 405 in the same time span of this year. That’s a 7% increase in calls for service. Though the department has seen a high call volume, there has been a 12% decrease in offenses. They have also witnessed a 60% de-

aison Lindsay Roll. They are also looking for a new chairperson and, so far, have only received one applicant. “We’re working through that, but we still have a few positions to fill,” Roll said.

Anthem Community Council CEO Terry Mullarkey leads the public safety roundtable discussion. (Photo by Pablo Robles) crease in offenses like assaults and robberies as well as a 9% decrease in property offenses. There have been some things that Phoenix police has noticed ailing nearby neighborhoods, however. “We’ve seen a dramatic increase in individuals long-term camping on state trust land off of New River Road,” Lt. Brian Rimsza said. “Individuals get a permit that says they can camp on state trust land for 14 days with that permit. However, the city of Phoenix has a dust ordinance, which prevents people from driving or camping on state trust land.” Rimsza added they have trouble enforcing the ordinance due to a lack of staff. “We are hoping with the changes and the limitations and restrictions that we will see some people moving away from camping on that state trust land,” Rimsza said. In addition to camping on state trust land, Rimsza noted there have been issues with hot air balloons landing on that land and not abiding by state trust rules. With those issues stated, Rimsza ended his talk with a call to action for the council and the public. “The (Phoenix City Council) votes on the budget on the 23rd of June, so if you like your police department, make a call and tell them that you do. We would appreciate it,” Rimsza said. Anthem Neighborhood Watch Anthem Neighborhood Watch is still not hosting meetings, according to its li-

Daisy Mountain Fire Department Wildfire season is in full swing and Daisy Mountain Fire Department Chief Brian Tobin wanted to make one thing clear. “Despite the fact that we haven’t had the large fires we had this time last year, we have had an equal number of wildland fires that haven’t been as large,” Tobin said. Daisy Mountain Fire Department said the fires have been smaller because it suppresses them earlier. However, they do anticipate with the change in the weather pattern that wildfires will continue to rise. Larger fires are expected. “With the increase in temperatures and fire restrictions, we have entered stage two fire restrictions,” Fire Marshal Dave Nielsen said. “What that means is no open campfires. You can have propane or liquid fuel fires that can be shut off, but you cannot have any wood burning fires that put off sparks and can’t be put out without water or an extinguisher.” The National Weather Service predicts that the Southwest will have an extreme fire season until August, with a drier monsoon than they predicted. “That’s going to increase the potential for brush fires,” Nielsen said. The department is working with the Anthem Community Council on its fireworks techniques for July 4. The council will decide the day of the event if it will host fireworks, based on weather conditions. “If it is a go, we will bring in extra staffing to make sure we are safe,” Nielsen said. With the looming risk of large wildfires, Nielsen partnered with Maricopa County, MCSO and the Office of Emergency Management to put out the “Ready, Set, Go” evacuation plan. “What we want to put out is to be ready before any type of fire happens. Have your important documents, go kit and medications along with a plan before you leave,”

see ROUNDTABLE page 5

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 16, 2021

NEWS

FIRE from page 1

Stage II fire restrictions prohibit building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, open charcoal barbecue or a wooden stove. Smoking is also prohibited unless in an enclosed vehicle, building or designated areas at least 3 feet in diameter that is clear of flammable materials. Using fireworks, target shooting, exploding targets and incendiary devices are restricted as well. For more information about the Stage II fire restrictions visit daisymountainfire.org.

Crews from Daisy Mountain Fire and Medical arrived on scene of a brush fire around noon June 2 near Interstate 17 and Pioneer Road. (Photo courtesy of Daisy Mountain Fire and Medical)

The fire, which was human caused, burned approximately 3.5 acres. The cause is still under investigation. (Photo courtesy of Daisy Mountain Fire and Medical) More than 60 firefighters from Daisy Mountain Fire and Medical and partners from automatic aid arrived on scene and extinguished a brush fire that was threatening the Pioneer Living History Museum and a nearby RV park. No structures were damaged. (Photo courtesy of Daisy Mountain Fire and Medical)

ROUNDTABLE from page 4

Nielsen said. “By the time we are putting out a ready or set stage, you should already have your stuff put together in a go bag. By the time we get to set or go, you should be ready to take it and run.” The department plans to use the Wire Emergency Alert system, which warns of any natural disaster — dust storm, wildfire, etc. — via telephones. Daisy Mountain Fire Department encourages residents to register their home phones with the Sends Network Community Emergency Notification Systems, so they know when the evacuation plans are in effect. The “Ready, Set, Go” system has been implemented in communities experiencing large fires like Bagdad and Tonto National Forest. Anthem Community Park The park has been plagued by van-

dalism, dogs off leashes, fights and drug usage. “We put in work orders almost daily for graffiti and vandalism, which we’ve seen an increase in,” Anthem Community Park Security Supervisor Zach Rahn said. “We’re trying to be proactive.” Though park officials have strived to offer good customer service to guests, they have issues trying to walk the line of being respectful while enforcing their rules. When fights have broken out at the park, security has often called MCSO to respond. Most of the time, however, the fight is over by the time a deputy arrives on scene. They are also trying to combat drug usage at their park, however, catching people in the act has been the biggest issue. They plan to increase the number of security cameras there. The council plans to reconvene on Tuesday, Sept. 14.

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 16, 2021

Horror flick revels in Arizona settings BY ASHLYN ROBINETTE Foothills Focus Staff Writer

new Phoenix production company hopes its debut horror anthology sheds light on all that the Arizona film community has to offer. After securing a distribution deal with Virgil Films & Entertainment, Falling Flame Pictures released “Scare Us,” on virtual cinema last month with an upcoming VOD and DVD release June 29. “We wanted to make a feature film that was very community driven and community based to showcase the talents that Arizona can bring to the table,” said Ryan Henry Johnston, “Scare Us” producer, co-writer and co-director. The synopsis: “A chilling horror anthology comprising five short stories, penned by an unlikely group of

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aspiring writers, in Sugarton — a small town plagued by the apparent return of an infamous serial killer, dubbed ‘Cutthroat.’ “They’ve come to share their scary stories (with each other and the bookstore owner, Peter, who leads the group), but soon discover they’ve become the stars of a sick killer’s own twisted tale.” “Scare Us” was produced by Jason Wiechert of Glendale, Robyn Sturgis of Scottsdale and Ryan Henry Johnston former Phoenix resident. Johnston additionally directed and wrote segments of “Scare Us,” with directors Charlotte Lilt of Glendale, Carl Jensen IV of Flagstaff, Tom J. McCoy of Mesa and Jordan Pillar of Phoenix. Also participating was Ryan Kjolberg, an Anthem resident and Boulder High School graduate. Lilt also stars in the fright flick alongside Tom Sandoval (“Vander-

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pump Rules”) of Los Angeles, Ethan Drew of Scottsdale, Michael Alvarez of Glendale and Michelle Palermo of Gilbert. “‘Scare Us’ is a testament to what the Phoenix film industry family can do,” Palermo said. Except for Jeff Hare, Falling Flame Pictures chief marketing officer, the other lead executives are from the Valley. Wiechert and Lilt are co-founders with Wiechert serving as chief executive officer and Lilt as chief creative officer. Ed Riccio of Chandler is executive vice president. Shaun Clark, of Mesa, is chief financial officer. Rob Ellman, of Phoenix, is the legal and creative consultant. These executives are all “Scare Us” executive producers as well. “We want to not only bolster Arizona film narratives, but also bring Hollywood to Arizona through our

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connections in Los Angeles,” Wiechert said. Wiechert and Lilt met on the set of one of Johnston’s short films in 2015 and eventually married in 2019. They say they created Falling Flame Pictures to have more creative control over their stories. “Magic happens when you really believe in things,” Wiechert said. “The cast and crew really believed in this, and it shows in the end product.” The concept of making a horror anthology was born around 2016, Johnston said. Johnston and Wiechert said they spoke at length about creating an anthology so that small Arizona filmmakers could work together to make one movie. Originally, the film focused on sto-

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HORROR from page 6

ries told around a campfire, Johnston said. However, the producers wanted to make adult-driven stories. Each director brought three pitches to the table for horror-style films, the best ideas were chosen. Short films were then written around July and August 2019, Johnston said. “We thought that we could take six up-and-coming directors who may not have had an opportunity to be a part of a larger full feature film and allow each of them to focus on a specific segment of the overall anthology story,” Wiechert said. “Each director wrote and directed their own segments within the overall story and the main story cohesively ties everything together nicely.” Principal photography began in October 2019, Wiechert said. Luckily, filming wrapped in mid-December before the pandemic hit. They spent January to June 2020 in virtual post-production. Because a lot of film productions were shutdown due to the pandemic, the “Scare Us” team could dedicate more time to it, Johnston said. “This project was a labor of love, and everyone involved brought 110%,” Johnston said. They chose the horror genre because of its marketability and success, Johnston said. Johnston cited “It Follows,” “Paranormal Activity” and “The Blair Witch Project” as low-budget independent horror films with little star power. “Myself and Falling Flame wanted to make something that didn’t feel low-budget and looked at it as a challenge,” said Johnston, who filmed the entire movie in Arizona. “We wanted an opportunity to showcase what Arizona could do and we knew that we had the team and the talent to make that happen.” “Scare Us” is set in a bookstore, so finding the perfect location for it was crucial. The moment Johnston and Wiechert stepped into Sunnyslope’s Books on 7th Avenue, they knew that it was the one. This mom-and-pop used bookstore

Glendale’s Michael Alvarez stars in “Scare Us,” which is set to hit VOD and DVD later this month. (Photo courtesy of Michael Alvarez)

has been in business for over 30 years and has more than 200,000 titles in stock, according to its website. “We wanted to use a location that had a lot of history and little quirks to it,” Wiechert said. The store’s owner, Mary Anne Ramirez, was impressed by Johnston and Wiechert’s enthusiasm for their project. “The great thing about shooting in Arizona is that the locals are very interested in lending a helping hand to make something special whereas if you’re in Los Angeles they’ve seen it all,” Sturgis said. “Here, people are genuinely interested in what is happening and they want to know how to be involved.” Another noteworthy location is Parks in the Pines General Store. Built in 1906, Parks in the Pines General Store is more than 100 years old and predates Route 66, according to its website. It is located on Old Route 66 and North Spring Valley Road in Parks. Because it is nestled among the largest Ponderosa Pine forest in the United States, the store creates a very secluded, eerie feeling at night, Johnston said. This made it an ideal location to use as a gas station for the “Dead Ringer” film segment. “We wanted something secluded

and wanted a film made in homage to ’80s-style creature features,” Johnston said. “It was great to have that piece of history. It felt very authentic and real to the story.” The entire opening sequence of “Scare Us” and most exterior shots were filmed in Williams, Wiechert said. This location was chosen to create a small town feel for Sugarton. The lead characters in “Scare Us” wrote scary stories to share with their writers’ group, which became separate segments of the film. The five segments of “Scare Us” are “Night Haul,” “Untethered,” “Dead Ringer,” “The Resting” and “After Hours.” Hare’s idea was to have the main characters read their stories and play their fictional characters. This was the first time any of the actors had to play two characters within the same film. Palermo plays Naomi in the main story and Cameron in the “Night Haul” segment. Naomi is an exhausted mother and mistreated wife who feels trapped in her marriage and has built-up anger, Palermo said. She fears what would happen if she were to leave her situation and it shows in her story. “The characters living out their alter egos in writing will really res-

onate with the audience,” Palermo said. “Audiences will relate to the struggles the characters feed into.” In the next segment, “Untethered,” Drew plays Mikey in the main story and Daniel in the short story. Mikey is mature for his age and enjoys hanging out with the adult writers because they see him as equal, Drew said. Mikey finds sharing his stories very meaningful because he doesn’t get much attention from home. The bookstore gives him a voice. Mikey’s father is the town sheriff, while his mother is a nurse. Mikey creates Daniel to illustrate the level of detachment he feels from his family. Drew said he was immediately excited about “Scare Us” because the script gave him chills. “It was one of the best experiences of my entire life,” he said. “There was a huge sense of community, and we all became a family by the time filming was done. I remember having so many laughs with everyone.” The third story of “Scare Us” is told by Diego in the main story, played by Alvarez. Diego is a contrived man with a tough guy front who doesn’t fit in with the rest of Sugarton’s inhabitants, Alvarez said. In his “Dead Ringer” story, Diego creates Will, who personifies Diego’s fear of leaving the small town and magnifies his worries that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. Alvarez said he researched case studies on people with anxiety. This was Alvarez’s first horror film, and he was up for the challenge. “‘Scare Us’ is a thrill ride and an homage to all the horror genres that came before us,” Alvarez said. Next, Lilt plays Claire in the main story and Anne in “The Resting” segment. Lilt describes Claire as a high-energy, bubbly and curious character while Anne is more typical. Claire’s story exemplifies her fears that if she lets herself be like anyone

see HORROR page 8

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THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 16, 2021

HORROR from page 7

else then she may lose herself, Lilt said. In “The Resting” segment, Lilt was acted with Wiechert. Lilt said it was enjoyable to work with her husband, but the entire cast was enjoyable, too. “We all just kind of mesh organically,” Lilt said. “Nothing had to be forced and you can feel it. When you watch it, you’ll see.” The final segment of “Scare Us” is “After Hours,” which is told by Sandoval’s character, Peter. Peter is the bookstore owner and leader of the writers’ group who assigned the scary stories. Wiechert hopes fans of Sandoval and “Vanderpump Rules” will watch “Scare Us” to see him in a different role. Everyone from “Scare Us” still keeps in touch, Lilt said. When it was safe, Hare said they rented the Harkins Theatres at Tempe Marketplace to have a cast and crew screening. Riccio wants to do a sequel to “Scare Us,” but said they are gauging audience response first. “I’m hoping that this helps the government in Arizona realize the potential and benefits there are to having films here in the Valley and in the state and what it can bring to the economy,” Palermo said. To watch the trailer or buy tickets for “Scare Us” or for more information about Falling Flame Pictures and its future films, visit fallingflamepictures.com.

Charlotte Lilt of Glendale is one of the directors of “Scare Us,” which hit cinemas in May. (Photo courtesy of Charlotte Lilt)

Jason Wiechert is an actor, as well as the chief executive officer and founder of Falling Flame Pictures. (Photo courtesy of Jason Wiechert)

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Officer New remembered as ‘exceptional’ BY ALEX GALLAGHER Foothills Focus Staff Writer

At his funeral, Phoenix Police Officer Ginarro New was remembered for his positive attitude and quick wit. The 27-year-old New died May 31 after a red-light runner hit his patrol car. “Ginarro’s way of life was giving his life through service to others,” said Cmdr. Darren Viner of the Phoenix Police Department’s Black Mountain Precinct on June 10 at Dream City Church. “He realized early on that his God-given part was to serve and he did it with a pure heart.” Draped with an American flag, New’s casket was ushered in by 10 officers from different backgrounds and walks of life. As they made their way through the church, Phoenix Police Detective Matthew Johnson played the bagpipes. Mourners sobbed softly.

A sea of uniformed officers blended with those grieving the loss of their friend, family member and colleague inside the church. The funeral was only viewable for the media via a livestream at the family’s request. “Mrs. New, our hearts and our prayers go out to you. I can’t imagine what you’re going through during this time,” said Dream City Church Pastor Luke Barnett. “There is a promise made to you today. The Bible says that God is close to the broken hearted and He comes near those crushed in their spirit. I just want you to be comforted by that today.” Barnett paid his own respects to the fallen officer through a prayer. “We thank you for a man who chose to pour his life into something that was bigger than himself and chose to lose himself into a greater cause,” Barnett said. Phoenix Police Pastor Bob Fesmire praised New.

A police officer at Ginarro New’s funeral displays the fallen officer streamer. (Photo by Phoenix Police Department photographer Stacie Hainke)

“We have lost a warrior, an exceptional officer and a friend,” Fesmire said. Fesmire extended gratitude as well to those who served alongside New or saw him in passing at the station. “To Ginarro’s closest friends, brothers and sisters with the Phoenix Police Department, we grieve with you as well, knowing that you have lost a brother, a mentor and a friend,” Fesmire said. “You, too, have our shared commitment that we are alongside you as you carry on Ginarro’s memory, his legacy, his wit, his humor and an ever-present smile.” New tackled each assignment with a smile on his face. “On the night of May 31, Ginarro did what officers do every day,” Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams said. “He faced uncertainty in danger but without hesitation.”

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Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams spoke at Ginarro New’s funeral. (Photo by Phoenix Police Department photographer Stacie Hainke)

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Williams, with a heart full of grief, extended her condolences to the family who New is survived by: wife, Kristen; his mother, Misty; his brother, Marcas; and his grandmother, Susan. “Know that you all are in our prayers and our deepest condolences go out to you specifically,” Williams said. “As we can all imagine, the loss of a family member or member of law enforcement hurts deeply. The void that is

created by such a profound loss touches everyone in the organization.” New’s best friend, Chris Pile, officiated his wedding to Kristen a year and a half ago and hadn’t spoken in public since. “In the short time they were together, he was an amazing husband who loved her with all his heart,” Pile said. “They should have had many more years together.” Not only was New a great husband, but

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Pile’s story described New’s personality. “When I was in the sixth grade, I was getting bullied,” Pile said. “Ginarro was a grade above mine and he confronted the bully and got them to stop bullying me. From then we had an amazing friendship and became my brother. He was a kind and gentle person who had a ginormous heart.” When New was not serving his community, he was a kid at heart who collected comic books as well as “Star Wars” and “Power Rangers” memorabilia. Pile said this explains why New was great with kids. “Anytime he was around his nieces and nephews, he immediately became the fun uncle,” Pile said. “He always knew how to make them laugh or smile.” For example, New, while working as a nurse at Long View Elementary School in Phoenix, challenged a wheelchair-bound girl to a race while he was in a wheelchair. Noticing the girl struggled with her upper body strength, New created a fun activity to encourage her development. New wanted to do more than just help kids, however. He wanted to help anybody, which led to his career as a police officer. He was inspired by Pile’s father, Pinal County’s Lt. Sheriff Eli Pile. When New graduated from the police academy, he asked the lieutenant to pin his badge on him. The pandemic prevented the ceremony from happening. Once New graduated from the police academy, he quickly made an impression on everyone he interacted with, including his training officer Thomas McKee. McKee realized New would work well under pressure because he was in the Marine Corps and worked as an EMT. With that in mind, McKee had New speak to a family during a death investigation, a task usually reserved for an on-scene supervisor. New not only did a stellar job, but he impressed the on-scene detectives. New was later assigned to the Black Mountain Precinct’s 23-King squadron, where he was supervised by Officer Dan Tomko. Tomko said he will always remember New’s work ethic and positive attitude. “Ginarro was my definition of compas-

Officer Ginarro New’s casket is a somber reminder of the dangers of police work. (Phoenix Police Department photographer Tory Weeks)

sionate and hard working,” Tomko said. “He always had a positive attitude and never complained, even when I asked him to do the jobs no one wanted to do,” Tomko said. “I always knew that I could ask him to do anything, and it would be done well. I could count on him.” Not long after joining the force, New married his long-time girlfriend and the two set out to create their own adventures together. “I told him as long as you are happy and love what you do, I will go on any adventure with you,” Kristen said. Their first adventure came after New graduated from the police academy and was working the night shift. Kristen often woke up, made herself a cup of coffee and waited for her husband to come home. He often walked in the door and said, “You’re not going to believe what happened today.” New was busy, but it was revealed during his funeral that he had begun to enlist into the National Guard. “We must always remember to do two things that came naturally to New — to

see OFFICER page 13

NEWS

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OFFICER from page 12

always look on the bright side and to always do the right thing,” McKee said. Williams said there was one thing that has helped fill the void of the last week. “As we try to navigate through these times, the tremendous outpouring of support we have received from the community has been a great comfort personally and professionally,” Williams said. “It’s helped us keep perspective of the path of healing and hope.” Williams extended her gratitude to the Phoenix Fire Department for trying to free New from his severely damaged vehicle and for showing its respects. “To Ginarro’s family, we want you to know that we grieve with you today,” Fesmire said. “As evidenced by this last week, you know that we are with you. Not just today, but for all and any time that we can serve you.” New’s wife was emotional during her eulogy. She shared how her husband would react at a funeral. “I kind of imagined the next time I

walked down the aisle with my husband it would have been something more festive,” Kristen said with a smirk through her tears. Though they were married young, Kristen said her marriage was easy and she wanted him to be happy. “There is a lesson that I hope that is taken from this tragedy,” she said. “Life is short, we know that, but do you feel that? Are there things you’re putting off or people you haven’t told that you love? Let the lesson be that if you’re waiting to do something, don’t. If you are waiting to tell someone you love them, don’t. If there is a petty argument you cannot let go, let it go. It’s not worth it.” New’s name will be added to the city of Phoenix Police Memorial and the National Law Enforcement memorial in Washington, D.C. “After today, I hope that you all take a little piece of Ginarro and try to learn from him,” Kristen said. Those who wish to donate to New’s family may visit phoenixpolicefoundation.org

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AROUND THE BLUHMIN’ TOWN

This ‘cicada invasion’ is a battle worth fighting BY JUDY BLUHM Foothills Focus Columnist

eventeen long years they have waited. Now trillions of cicadas making a racket as loud as lawnmowers have emerged from their slumber throughout the Midwest and Eastern states. The noisy little critters are considered a major nuisance because they amass in huge numbers in parks, wooded areas, neighborhoods and just about everywhere. They fly, land and crawl on trees, pets, cars and houses. People have claimed that the “cicadas invasion” is harmful to their

mental health and doctors have reported that requests for anti-anxiety medication is on the rise. Ahh, the lovely sounds of nature. Why are cicadas so darn noisy? The males “sing” by flexing their tymbals, which are drum-like organs in their abdomens. Small muscles rapidly pull the tymbals in and out, the sound intensified by their mostly hollow abdomens. It’s one beautiful mating call. When cicadas are burrowed underground, what do they do? Well, it seems they are tunneling and feeding, not really hibernating. Once they emerge as nymphs, they shed the exoskeleton, their wings in-

flate, and they can begin their brief and loud adult life. If you are heading back East where the Brood X cicadas are serenading, you might take some ear plugs. Hungry? I have a new recipe to share. First, you gather up a bunch of cicadas, throw them in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes. Then fry them up in a pan with some olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper. Get your dips ready because they are supposedly delicious with a little salad dressing. (Do not try this if you are allergic to shellfish.) A sustainable, cheap and high-protein snack. I saw this famous chef on a cooking show saying that cicadas and other insects

see BLUHM page 18

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OPINION

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Landlords are the forgotten pandemic heroes BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Foothills Focus Columnist

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he COVID-19 pandemic has been full of quiet heroism, men and women sacrificing to keep others healthy and safe. Doctors, nurses, firefighters, paramedics, cops, grocery workers; all have done amazing work and all have been recognized for their efforts. But the owners of apartment complexes? The moms and pops who own duplexes or single-family rental homes? We have heard not a peep of praise about them despite their massive sacrifice over the past 16 months, a time period when they have been forced by various state and federal eviction moratorium orders to provide free rent to thousands of residents across Arizona. I think it’s high time we do something many people find unthinkable: Say something nice about the good actors often known derisively as “landlords.” Full disclosure: In my day job as a public relations consultant, one of my clients is the Arizona Multihousing Association, a trade association representing the apartment industry. So yes, I am predisposed to say kind things about property owners. That doesn’t change the fact that beginning in March 2020, first the state and then the feds voided more than one million leases in Arizona, suspending the private property rights not only of big companies that own apartments but retirees supplementing their Social Security with a rental property or two. You think it’s tough having company stay a few nights too long? Imagine having residents stay 16 months with no rent while you pay the mortgage, property taxes, insurance and maintenance costs. We didn’t force grocery stores to give away free food or gas stations to pass out free unleaded. But enforce free rent for a year-plus? Yes, we did. One of the saddest parts of this story is the massive and underreported government snafu that has accompanied the

eviction moratorium. To date, Arizona at the state, county, city and town level has received about $1 billion in federal eviction relief funding. Thus far, 16 months into the pandemic, the agencies charged with distributing these funds have managed to give out about $134 million — or 13 cents of every relief dollar. We can only wish government revenuers would be that inefficient when it comes to collecting our tax dollars. These eviction relief programs, beset by red tape and overly complicated applications, have backlogs thousands of applications long. That’s tragic, because it never should have been this difficult to give away free money. Common sense should have dictated that everyone who qualified for the eviction moratorium – in other words every renter who lost work or suffered a pandemic-induced salary cut – also qualified for relief dollars. End of story. That ship has sailed, however. And the Centers for Disease Control order suspending evictions is set to lapse on June 30. If it’s not extended again, tenant advocates say there will be a rush to the courthouse and a wave of evictions. No property owners I’ve met look forward to evicting people, especially anyone who has struggled during the last year-

see LEIBOWITZ page 18

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 16, 2021

Justice for all? BY JD HAYWORTH Foothills Focus Columnist

“E

qual justice under law,” reads the inscription carved above the columns on the magnificent building that houses the Supreme Court of the United States. Business consultants who earn their living devising new concepts for “leadership in commerce,” (a dubious exercise, but a triumph of marketing) might call those four words a “mission statement.” That would be wrong. Those four words encapsulate the essence of a republic, and we confuse them at our own peril. You may have been taught that the words “republic” and “democracy” are interchangeable. Again, that would be wrong. Ours is a constitutional republic — a form of government based upon the edicts enumerated in our Constitution — the supreme law of our land. The 10th Amendment to the Constitution further elaborates: “The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people.” In other words, our Constitution is a document of limited and enumerated powers, based upon law. That same Constitution establishes a framework for self-government, based not upon majority rule, but the supremacy of law, equally applied to all: the essence of justice. Small wonder then, that Benjamin Franklin didn’t hesitate when asked by a Philadelphia socialite, “Dr. Franklin, what form of government have you given us?” “A republic, if you can keep it.” He knew how difficult that would be, and he also knew the dangers inherent in a democracy, because the printer-inventor-founder defined it in this way: “Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what they are going to have for lunch.” Dr. Franklin’s simple and powerful definition of democracy exposes the “tyranny of the majority” — and why

confusing the term “republic” with “democracy” is dangerous. Sadly, such confusion is commonplace. Even more tragically, we have seen news coverage — or more accurately, elitist lectures disguised as news — sow seeds of more confusion. In less than six months, the Biden Administration has opened our borders, empowered our enemies, dismantled our domestic energy production, dismissed concerns about ballot security, prioritized illegal aliens over citizens and instituted a policy of runaway spending, encouraging the Federal Reserve to just keep printing money, with the expansive inflation that inevitably accompanies that action. That’s not all. Transforming the military into an institution of uniform political ideology instead of a fighting force is also underway; likewise the effort to legitimize male athletes “in transition” dominating biological females in women’s athletic competition. What else? Plenty. All done by executive action. Where are the Republicans? Well, they’re there, and some are putting up a fight — though the “alphabet networks,” their cable cousins, and the major newspapers ignore their efforts. Some conservatives seek solace by looking to the political calendar, and the midterm elections scheduled for November of next year. Still others look to the judiciary, and the three conservative Supreme Court Justices installed during the Trump Administration. But the wheels of justice continue to turn — slowly — if at all. Meantime, Hillary Clinton, James Comey and John Brennan all enjoy freedom — despite suspicions that each of them have been involved in illegal activities. Can we keep our Republic? It may be easier to change the Supreme Court inscription: “Special justice for some.” And that would be wrong.

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BLUHM from Page 14

are the “food of the future.” Well, I don’t like the looks of that future and I will not put a bug in my mouth. Intentionally that is. (I did swallow a fly once by mistake.) I was coerced into eating rattlesnake one time. I was at Rawhide when it was in Cave Creek and my husband thought it would be fun to try it because it was one of its bestselling “snacks.” No, it does not taste like chicken. It is nothing more than a small, tough, cooked piece of viper. I almost choked on it. Oh, I did watch someone eat chocolate-covered ants (very unsettling). And although I love chocolate, I refused to give the “haute-cuisine” a taste. I do not like bugs.

My nephew in Ohio said he and his friends stuck cicadas on a stick and roasted them over a campfire. To me, that is what marshmallows are for. But I digress. Cicadas are putting on one of the world’s great natural spectacles, that you must hear to believe. It is like a pulsing, surging electrical current. The sound heads for a crescendo before receding slightly, only to build up again to a roar. We can enjoy them in Prescott and Sedona as we head into summer. Scientists say their “music” has a special beat. Dear readers, just please don’t eat. Judy Bluhm is a writer and a local Realtor. Have a story or a comment? Email Judy at judy@judybluhm.com.

How to get a letter published E-mail: christina@timespublications.com

The Foothills Focus welcomes letters that express readers’ opinion on current topics. Letters must include the writer’s full name, address (including city) and telephone number. The Foothills Focus will print the writer’s name and city of residence only. Letters without the requisite identifying information will not be published. Letters are published in the order received, and they are subject to editing. The Foothills Focus will not publish consumer complaints, form letters, clippings from other publications or poetry. Letters’ authors, not the Foothills Focus, are responsible for the “facts” presented in letters.

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plus that was 2020 and early 2021. At the same time, just as there are “slumlords” who give responsible property owners a bad name, there are also “bad apple” residents who used the moratorium as a vacation from responsibility. They failed to pursue relief and went silent on the property manager. Instead of taking their stimulus checks or enhanced

unemployment benefits and spending them on basics like rent, they decided responsibility could wait. Meanwhile, the back rent tab continues to rise. Thousands of property owners have waited. For 16 months. Silently, amid frustration and the threat of bankruptcy, and without an iota of praise for their efforts. It seems like one kind column is the least we can do, no?

BUSINESS

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Good communication is key for �inances BY EDWARD JONES STAFF

une is Effective Communications Month, and it’s a good idea to recognize the importance of good communication. It plays a role in almost every aspect of living — including finances. It’s important to clearly communicate financial goals to loved ones. You’ll want to hear theirs, too. Let’s look at the communications you might have with family members: • Your spouse: You and your spouse may have different thoughts about

a range of financial topics — how much to save, how much to spend, the level of debt with which you’re comfortable and so on. Try to reach a consensus on these issues. However, in regard to investing, you don’t necessarily have to act in unison all the time. You each may have different investment styles. One of you may be more aggressive, willing to take on more risk in exchange for potentially higher returns, while the other would rather invest with an eye toward mitigating risk, even it means accepting a lower return. Of course, there’s nothing stopping

each of you from pursuing your individual investment strategies in your own accounts like an IRA or 401(k). Still, if you are going to work toward common goals — especially toward a shared vision of your retirement lifestyle — you each may want to compromise in your investment choices. This accommodation is even more necessary in your joint accounts. • Your parents: If you may someday be involved with your parents’ financial plans, you should know what to expect. This may not be the easiest conversation to have, but it’s an important one. So, for example, ask your

parents if they have a durable power of attorney, which allows them to designate someone to manage their financial affairs if they become physically or mentally incapacitated. You might also inquire if they have protected themselves against the potentially enormous costs of long-term care, such as an extended nursing home stay. If not, you might suggest that they contact a financial adviser who can offer solutions. Once you begin communicating about these issues, you may well want to go further

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estate planning. • Your grown children: Just as you talk to your parents about their estate plans, you’ll want to discuss the same topic with your own grown children. Let them know who you have named as a durable power of attorney, what’s in your last will and testament and whether you’ve established a living trust. If you’re already working with a financial advisor and an estate planning professional, make sure your children know how to contact these individuals. Of course, you don’t have to confine your communications to estate plans. If you want to help your children financially, such as loaning them money for a down payment on a home, let them know. By talking with your loved ones about key financial matters, everyone benefits. So, keep those lines of communication open. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Ryan McKeon, a local Edward Jones financial adviser. Edward Jones, Member SIPC.

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Corral these thoughts from a real roundup CHURCH COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Pastor Ed Delph Foothills Focus Columnist

et me set the stage for you. Years ago, I was at the Red Lake Ranch in New Mexico at roundup time. Roundup was a big deal at Red Lake. The ranch shipped as many as 700 steers and 700 heifers each fall. Rounding up that many cattle on this 125,000-plus-acre ranch, situated in the high country, 60 miles southwest of Albuquerque, required all the cowboys and cowgirls the owners could muster. Thus, there I was, in my late twenties, riding in a real, honest to God, western roundup. The horse I rode was named Quien Sabe. I’m a medium horse rider, but Quien Sabe was a high-grade cattle horse. Why did they give me Quien Sabe? They knew that I didn’t know what I was doing, but the horse did. Go figure. Quien Sabe in Spanish means, “Who knows” or “Who’s to say?” During the final stage of most roundups, cattle are moved from the shipping pasture to the shipping pens. There the cattle are weighed and then loaded onto cattle trucks. All the riders form a large “V,” aiming the cattle to the gate of the shipping pen. There is one rider who rides what is called “point.” The “point” rider is in the middle of the “V” and slowly drives the cattle into the “V” narrow end and then through the corral gate opening. You guessed it. Quien Sabe and I were assigned the task of riding “point.” Initially, he did a great job of slowly herding the 700 heifers to-

ward the gate. I was hanging on and enjoying the ride. What a fantastic experience to watch a real ranch horse do his job. Occasionally, a heifer would try and break out of the “V” line. Quien Sabe cut her off and herded her back into the group. Time and time again, the cattle tested Quien Sabe, but he was up to the challenge. Quien Sabe won every time. Then he would look back at me as if to say, “Wasn’t that good? I’m hot, hot, hot! Watch and learn, you greenhorn city slicker. You will call me ‘The Precious’ after this roundup.” After hours of the stuff that cowboys and cow horses do, Quien Sabe and I pointed 700 heifers into the shipping pen. However, the first in the line of the herd was the alpha heifer. She’s the leader the herd follows and obeys without question. This time, the alpha heifer stuck her head into the shipping pen and somehow signaled to the herd, “I ain’t walking down this road.” She made a 180-degree turn, ran at full speed, and the other heifers, instantly and without question, followed her lead. Have you heard of groupthink? Heifers do it very well. Now, Quien Sabe and I had 700 heifers stampeding toward us. I’m right in the middle of an authentic New Mexico cattle stampede. Houston, or Red Lake Ranch, we have a problem! As the stampede raced toward us, the only eyes bigger than mine were Quien Sabe’s. His ears bent straight forward and then up. He hesitantly stepped forward, trying to decide which heifer he was going to take on first.

While I appreciated his mettle, my will to survive kicked in. The unlearned, greenhorn city-slicker riding Quien Sabe made an executive decision. We made a 180-degree turn pronto, and off we went. Quien Sabe never looked back. We ran, full speed ahead, with cattle behind us. And, of course, the 20 or so riders and their horses raced after the heifers and us. Thank God Quien Sabe was faster than the cattle. I imagine our group of riders looked like an octopus on roller skates.

see DELPH page 22

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Scottsdale artist is the alchemist of pastel painting BY SHEA STANFIELD Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

orking in pastels is like being an alchemist. Artists don’t need gimmicks. They are only limited by their imagination. Value and color are addressed simultaneously. Scottsdale pastel artist Beverly Carlson-Bradshaw got her start in the wilds of Red Lodge, Montana, where she lived on a farm until she was 12. During those years, she admitted to being “horse crazy” and loving to draw animals. “I think I always had the desire to create from a young age,” Carlson-Bradshaw said. “My influences in art started with my uncle giving me a set of pastel pencils and my father teaching me how to draw a deer.” In high school, Carlson-Bradshaw moved to oil painting. In the long run, she found the pastels more appealing

DELPH from page 21

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There was plenty of movement, but you never know if it’s going to be forward, backward or sideways. To make a long story longer (cowboys do that), we finally gathered all the heifers up and proceeded to try again, this time successfully. But Quien Sabe didn’t seem quite as, shall we say, confident on the second try. Maybe I am humanizing Quien Sabe a bit, but I think he may have learned a powerful lesson. Sometimes it’s best not to let yourself get in the way when you ought to get out of the way. It’s hard to get off your high horse, but sometimes it’s much harder on you if you don’t. The Bible has wisdom for people who are of the Quien Sabe variety and ilk. James 4:10 says, “Humble yourselves in the presence of the

because of the combination drawing and painting rendering technique. When she was 26, Carlson-Bradshaw moved to Seattle to work as an interior designer and took night classes at the University of Washington. “One of my greatest opportunities during this time was working four hours, once a week, for a year with Clark Elster, a pastel painter in Seattle,” Carlson-Bradshaw said. “He is still a mentor to me today.” She moved to Carefree after renting a house there. “For the last 10 years, before our retirement, my husband and I had been renting a house in Carefree during Mariners Spring Training baseball,” she said. “So, when we were looking to move from Seattle, we thought, ‘Why not Carefree?’ It’s always been a second home. That was in February 2018.” Now retired from interior design,

see PASTELS page 23

Lord, and He will exalt you.” Bible wisdom said it is our job to humble ourselves, and it’s God’s job to exalt us. Sometimes, we are like Quien Sabe and we try to exalt ourselves. Then God does our job and humbles us. We get exalted when we humble ourselves. Use your horse sense. It leads to stable thinking. Here’s your takeaway: Quien Sabe (Who knows) now knows that using a little wisdom when facing a big problem probably saved his life, and his riders, too. He now knows self-sufficiency has ruined many a Quien Sabe who refused to get off their high horse when they ought to. Quien Sabe now knows a herd of 700 heifers are a lot of cows, and that ain’t no bull! Sometimes it is more important to discover what one cannot do, than what one can do.

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Beverly Carlson-Bradshaw in the studio with her pastels. (Photo courtesy of Beverly Carlson-Bradshaw)

PASTELS from page 22

Carlson-Bradshaw focuses on her pastels. She works in the garage of their home during the winters, moving inside to a spare bedroom in the summers. “Art has been a long-time passion of mine,” she said. “I’ve dabbled in oils, watercolor, colored pencil and clay sculpture and look forward to experimenting more with mixed media with my pastels. I feel my art and the subjects I paint are all part of my growing up in the country, the landscapes of our surrounding area and the nature that speaks to me. Being surrounded by animals in my youth — horses, Beverly Carlson-Bradshaw’s “After the Bloom.” (Photo cows, dogs, cats and wildlife courtesy of Beverly Carlson-Bradshaw) — will always be subjects I am interested in painting.” org; and the Pastel Society of the West Carlson-Bradshaw exhibits through Coast, pswc.ws. three arts organizations. She is a memShe also shows at Twist Bistro & Galber of the Sonoran Arts League at Stage- lery at the Summit, twist-bistro.com. coach Village in Cave Creek at its gallery, To view a selection of her art or to sonoranartsleague.org; the Arizona Pas- contact her, visit beverlybradshawart. tel Artists Association, apaa.wildapricot. com.

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Wild Giants giving fans a ‘souvenir’ at upcoming show BY ALEX GALLAGHER Foothills Focus Staff Writer

he Anthem-based band Wild Giants will tease fans with songs from its forthcoming EP, “Hey There, Slow Down, Help Me,” during its Friday, June 18, show at Amped

Coffee Co. Among the songs they will play is “Souvenir,” which represents a change of pace and aligns with Wild Giants’ live show. Singer Austin Walashek founded Wild Giants in the fall of 2018, but he felt the band’s first EP, “Wild Giants:

Chapter One,” wasn’t a fair musical representation. “Our first EP deals heavily with love and breakups and has a more depressing undertone to it,” Walashek said. “The way I view the new EP is that I have been changing a lot as a songwriter, and with this project, people can see my growth in real time.” Walashek refuses to release songs he doesn’t love. “On my first EP, those songs were my favorite songs that I had written at the time, and I was unsure how I would be able to go through this process again,” Walashek said. “Those songs had a mass appeal and were commercial. That was the mindset I had while recording those songs.” Walashek said he feels he took more risks with “Hey There, Slow Down, Help Me.” “In the first EP, I didn’t scream, I didn’t get to let loose, I went for a much safer sound,” said Walashek, who admits he is a loud vocalist live. “When I listened back to ‘Wild Giants: Chapter One,’ I realized it didn’t show the voice of what Wild Giants is. So, I made sure to really drive that home.” Walashek has reflected on how the band started. His family owns Amped Coffee Co., where he books shows. He’s thankful for the acts he’s met and considers many of them mentors. One band had a stronger impact on Walashek than others. “Damn The Weather have been huge mentors for me,” Walashek said. “They

gave me a huge list of venues and phone numbers to call and have gotten me in touch with their producer.” Once Walashek began booking gigs, he contacted Damn The Weather’s producer Dan Parker. Walashek has since raved about Parker’s songwriting and sound. “A cool thing about Dan is that he’s a drummer, so when he builds the drum tracks, he makes them with things that I could never think of,” Walashek said. Parker’s rhythmic influence will be heard on the new EP’s song “Sleep is for the Weak.” “Whereas all the other songs have rock elements and screaming vocals, ‘Sleep is for the Weak’ has funk elements to it,” Walashek said. “Sleep is for the Weak” is led by a drum groove that, Walashek said, took the drummer more than two hours to master. It features rhythmic guitar styling of the band’s bassist Lyman Lipke. Still, Walashek said, lyrically the “Hey There, Slow Down, Help Me” was a struggle. “I’ve been writing songs, but I haven’t been writing songs that I’ve been excited about recording,” Walashek said. That was until Walashek set aside the song and then had an epiphany. After he penned “Souvenir,” Walashek rushed to Parker’s studio and record.

see WILD GIANTS page 25

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WILD GIANTS from page 24

Now, Walashek cannot wait to play the song live for the first time and give fans a taste of what is to come for Wild Giants. Looking past their single release show, Wild Giants plan to play the Yucca Tap Room with Health & Rifle Club on July 24. In the meantime, Walashek is excited to unveil new music at his family’s business with opening act Shane Hunt from Damn the Weather. Overall, Walashek is amped to give fans a taste of Wild Giants’ new sound. “There’s a lot of rock ‘n’ roll on this new EP and I’m really excited for that,” Walashek said. Wild Giants w/Shane Hunt from Damn the Weather

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Austin Walashek is the lead singer for Wild Giants. They’ll play at his family’s Amped Coffee Co. on Friday, June 18. (Photo courtesy of Austin Walashek)

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KUMA’S GREAT ADVENTURES

Mule Deer Trail at White Tank Mountains TOLD BY KUMA AND WRITTEN BY LORRAINE BOSSÉ-SMITH Foothills Focus Contributing Writer

ne of the down sides of always blogging about new adventures is that we don’t return to places. This time, mom decided it was time to revisit the White Tank Mountains near Peoria.

Previously, when we went up to the waterfall, it was a very easy and high-traffic trail. We, unfortunately, didn’t get to see water flowing, but it was a nice hike, nonetheless. For this hike, we selected the Mule Deer trail because mom’s ankle was bothering her again. The White Tank Mountains Regional Park is off the 303 in the West Val-

ley. You take the exit for Peoria and head west or to the right. Look for the brown sign that says “White Tank Mountain Regional Park” on the left and turn in. The cost is $7 per vehicle to enter, and you will get a nice map with all the options. Note that the distances are one way, which mom didn’t realize from the web. The map shows all sorts of options from mild to wild, so you can pick whatever suits you for the day. The Mule Deer Trail is a few miles from the visitor center on the right. There isn’t a human restroom, and the trail is at the very back of the parking lot. Several other trails start from this dirt parking lot. Expect to see horses and lots of mountain bikes on this trail. It’s 7 miles and it is an out and back. We didn’t go to the end as mom

was up for about 3.5 miles. That’s the good news — you can do whatever you like. Apparently, the name comes from the bleached-out granite water catchments or “tanks.” Back in the 1800s, this area was a watering hole for stagecoach horses. The trail is relatively flat, mostly dirt and has some rocks. It makes a nice mountain biking or horseback riding trail. Be sure to get out early now that the hot season is here as the trail has very little shade. The White Tank Mountains Park is laid out well, and the trails are visibly marked. They have strategically placed benches and picnic areas for your enjoyment. This trail did not go into the White Tank Mountains but

see KUMA page 28

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www.tetsellteam.com Kuma hiking a new trail at White Tank Mountains. (Photo by Lorraine Bossé-Smith)

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KUMA From Page 27

rather skirted around in the desert. What we liked about it was the “forever” views. We could see all the way to Downtown Phoenix and beyond. Fair warning: This particular trail goes through a burn area. In May 2020, a fire blazed through, destroying a lot of the vegetation. It’s sad and bleak in some areas, but you still have the views. If we had known about the burn, we would have taken a different trail like the Black Rock Loop. Have you done it? Let me know what you think. Anyway, we met nice people along the way and turned around just shy of the visitor center. In essence, you are traveling back toward the entrance for the entire trail (an out and back). All in all, we went about 3.5 miles, just like mom wanted to do. We enjoyed shade under a pavilion and a long drink of water before heading back.

see KUMA page 29

Get there early, as the Mule Deer Trail has no shade. (Photo by Lorraine Bossé-Smith)

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KUMA From Page 28

If you live in the West Valley, this is a gem. Truly, they have done a remarkable job making this a versatile park. Even for those of us on the north end, it is nice to have another option. Isn’t it amazing how different the desert can look from one part of town to another? I am continually in awe of this area and consider myself a lucky pup to live here. As the temps rise, be sure to carry extra water for you and your furry friends. See you on the trail my friend!

Views abound off Mule Deer Trail. (Photo by Lor-

raine Bossé-Smith)

My mom, Lorraine Bossé-Smith, is kind enough to help me share my Great Adventures. She is a motivational speaker, corporate trainer, executive recruiter, business consultant, coach, fitness expert, and author of nine books. Enjoy my blog at https://bit. ly/2MRHKv3 and be sure to follow me on Facebook @kumathedog and Instagram @kumaitothedog. Get outside! You never know what you’ll discover, and our paths just might cross.

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North Valley Symphony Orchestra Announces Open Auditions Adult Orchestra and Youth Ensemble positions available! Visit the "join us" page on our website for details on open positions, audition excerpts, and instructions for submitting your video audition. Adult auditions due August 1st, Youth auditions due August 6th.

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STUDENT CHRONICLES Know a student doing something remarkable? Tell us about it! Email christina@timespublications.com. BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Foothills Focus Executive Editor

Kadyn Lane, a junior from Phoenix, was one of 239 students named to Concordia University, Nebraska’s honors list for the spring 2021 semester. The top 25% of all undergraduate students who complete at least 12 credit hours qualify for the honors list.

Brent Barth and Gashaw Bizana of Phoenix earned degrees from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta in May. Barth earned a Master of Science in analytics, while Bizana earned a Master of Science in mechanical engineering.

Vighnesh Unnithan of Phoenix was named to the spring 2021 dean’s list at Georgia State University. To be eligible for the dean’s list, degree-seeking students must have earned a GPA of at least 3.5 for a minimum of nine semester hours of academic credit taken at Georgia State during the fall or spring term with no incompletes for the semester. Eligible students must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 for all classes taken at Georgia State.

Abigail Hadlock of Phoenix earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts. Hadlock is among 748 bachelor of arts degree candidates Holy Cross celebrated at its 175th Commencement held in person on May 21 on the college’s Fitton Field. Lauren Anderson of Phoenix was named to the dean’s list for the

spring semester at Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, New Mexico. To be eligible for the dean’s list, a student must complete a minimum of 15 credit hours with a GPA of 3.25 or greater.

YOUTH

Mason Setto of Phoenix was named to the spring dean’s list at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. Setto was among the 8,700 students who were named to the list. To qualify, students must earn a GPA of 3.5 or higher in at least 12 graded credit hours during any one term.

Chloe Catherine Cline of Phoenix was named to the spring honor roll at the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi. Cline was named to the dean’s honor roll, which is reserved for students who earn a semester GPA of 3.50-3.74.

Meghan Lang of Phoenix was named to the dean’s list for the spring semester at St. Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Indiana. To earn this academic honor at Saint Mary’s, a student must achieve a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.6 on a 4.0 scale, have a minimum of 12 graded credit hours, no incompletes, and no grades lower than a C.

Erin Cooney, Ashley Lau, Dillon Shipley and Regan Shipley, all of Phoenix, were named to the dean’s list at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. Students must earn a 3.5 to 3.84 grade-point average to be listed. Andrew S. Dittmar, a mechanical

engineering major from Phoenix, was one of more than 10,500 Iowa State University students who were named to the spring semester 2021 dean’s list. Students named to the dean’s list must have earned a grade point average of at least 3.50 on a 4.00 scale while carrying a minimum of 12 credit hours of graded coursework.

Alyssa Johnson of Phoenix was named to the dean’s list for the spring semester at Carson-Newman University in Jefferson City, Tennessee. The uni-

versity awards dean’s list honors to students earning a grade point average of 3.5 or higher while taking 12 or more credit hours.

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BEFORE THE ARIZONA POWER PLANT AND TRANSMISSION LINE SITING COMMITTEE IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION OF ARIZONA PUBLIC SERVICE COMPANY IN CONFORMANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF ARIZONA REVISED STATUTES SECTION 40-360, ET SEQ., FOR A CERTIFICATE OF ENVIRONMENTAL COMPATIBILITY AUTHORIZING THE NORTH VALLEY 230KV FACILITY PROJECT, CASE NO. 120 INCLUDING THE CONSTRUCTION OF APPROXIMATELY 31 MILES OF 230KV TRANSMISSION LINES, TWO 230KV SUBSTATIONS, AND THREE SUBSTATION INTERCONNECTIONS IN MARICOPA COUNTY, ARIZONA, ORIGINATING AT THE WESTWING SUBSTATION IN SECTION 12, TOWNSHIP 4 NORTH, RANGE 1 WEST, G&SRB&M AND INTERCONNECTING AT THE RACEWAY SUBSTATION IN SECTIONS 4 AND 5, TOWNSHIP 5 NORTH, RANGE 1 EAST, G&SRB&M, CONTINUING TO THE PROPOSED AVERY SUBSTATION IN SECTION 15, TOWNSHIP 5 NORTH, RANGE 2 EAST, G&SRB&M AND THE PROPOSED MISTY WILLOW SUBSTATION IN SECTION 8, TOWNSHIP 4 NORTH, RANGE 3 EAST, G&SRB&M, AND TERMINATING AT THE PINNACLE PEAK SUBSTATION IN SECTION 10, TOWNSHIP 4 NORTH, RANGE 4 EAST, G&SRB&M. DOCKET NO. L-00000D-02-0120

IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION ARIZONA PUBLIC SERVICE COMPANY IN CONFORMANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF ARIZONA REVISED STATUTES SECTION 40-360, et seq., FOR A CERTIFICATE OF ENVIRONMENTAL COMPATIBILITY AUTHORIZING THE TS-9 TO PINNACLE PEAK 500kV/230kV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT WHICH INCLUDES A 500kV TRANSMISSION LINE, A 230kV TRANSMISSION LINE AND ASSOCIATED FACILITIES AND INTERCONNECTIONS ORIGINATING FROM THE PROPOSED TS-9 SUBSTATION LOCATED SOUTH OF SR74 IN PEORIA, AT SECTION 33, TOWNSHIP 6 NORTH, RANGE I EAST, G&SRB&M, TO THE EXISTING PINNACLE PEAK SUBSTATION LOCATED NEAR 64th STREET AND PINNACLE PEAK ROAD IN PHOENIX, AT SECTION 10, TOWNSHIP 4 NORTH, RANGE 4 EAST, G&SRB&M. DOCKET NO. L-00000D-06-0635-00131 APPLICATION TO AMEND DECISION NO. 65997 AND DECISION NO. 63943

NOTICE OF HEARING A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD before the Arizona Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Committee (Committee) regarding the Application of Arizona Public Service Company (APS or Applicant) to amend Decision No. 65997 and Decision No. 63943, which approved Certificates of Environmental Compatibility (CEC) in Line Siting Case 120 (CEC 120) and Line Siting Case 131 (CEC 131), together with the Supplement to Application to Amend (collectively the Application to Amend). The Application to Amend requests modification to CEC 120 to permit APS to expand the size of the Avery substation footprint to approximately sixty-four (64) acres, and modifications to CEC 131 to (i) permit APS to relocate an approximate four-mile segment of the existing Morgan-Pinnacle Peak Line from its approved corridor approximately 1,000 feet north to prevent interference with the operations of the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Plant (Plant) and (ii) to authorize the construction of a third substation to ensure adequate service to the Plant (collectively the Project). A map of the Project is attached as Exhibit A. In response to the Application to Amend, the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) referred this matter back to the Committee for an evidentiary hearing to obtain testimony on all issues raised by the Application to Amend. The hearing on the Application to Amend will be held at the Briarwood Country Club clubhouse located at 20800 N. 135th Avenue, Sun City West, AZ 85375. The hearing will begin on July 26, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. and continue on July 27, 2021 through July 30, 2021, commencing at 9:00 a.m. each day as necessary through the completion of the hearing. PUBLIC COMMENT WILL BE TAKEN IN A SPECIAL EVENING SESSION ON JULY 26, 2021, BEGINNING AT 5:30 P.M., VIA TELEPHONE, ZOOM, OR IN PERSON, AT THE BRIARWOOD COUNTRY CLUB CLUBHOUSE, 20800 N. 135TH AVENUE, SUN CITY WEST, AZ 85375. PUBLIC COMMENT MAY ALSO BE TAKEN AT THE BEGINNING OF EACH HEARING DAY, OR AT

OTHER TIMES DURING THE HEARING, AT THE DISCRETION OF THE CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMITTEE. PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THE PUBLIC HEARING AND PUBLIC COMMENT SESSION WILL FOLLOW CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL (CDC), STATE AND LOCAL GUIDELINES ADDRESSING COVID-19 FURTHER RESTRICTIONS ON PUBLIC ACCESS, ADDITIONAL SAFETY PROTOCOLS, AND REVISIONS TO THE HEARING SCHEDULE MAY OCCUR DUE TO PUBLIC HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS. DUE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, THE PUBLIC IS STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO PARTICIPATE BY EITHER WATCHING THE HEARING ONLINE OR LISTENING TO THE HEARING VIA TELEPHONE RATHER THAN ATTENDING IN PERSON. At least 24 hours in advance of the hearing, information regarding online and telephone hearing access, as well as any additional details regarding COVID-19 safety protocols or other revisions to the hearing schedule will be posted on the Project website at https://www.aps.com/biscuitflats and on the ACC website at: http://azcc.gov/AZ_Power_Plant/linesiting-calendar.asp. Messages can be left at (602) 282-8890 and the call will be returned with information regarding hearing details as requested. The Chairman may, at his discretion, recess the hearing to a time and place to be announced during the hearing, or to be determined after the recess. The date, time, and place at which the hearing will be resumed will be posted on the above-noted Project website and the ACC website. NOTE: NOTICE OF ANY SUCH RESUMED HEARING WILL BE GIVEN; HOWEVER, PUBLISHED NOTICE OF SUCH A RESUMED HEARING IS NOT REQUIRED. No tour of the Project Area is planned by the Chairman at this time. If the Chairman or Committee later decide to conduct a tour, notice that includes a map and itinerary of any such tour will be available at the hearing and posted on the

Continued on page XX 33

CLASSIFIEDS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 16, 2021

Continued Continued from from page page XX 32

NOTICE OF HEARING Project website at https://www.aps.com/biscuitflats and the ACC website at: https://www.azcc.gov/arizona-power-plant/meeting-schedule. Maps and detailed information about the Project are contained in the Application to Amend, which is available at the Project website at https://www.aps.com/biscuitflats. The Application to Amend can also be accessed on the ACC website, https:// www.azcc.gov. select “Cases and Open Meetings,” select “Find a Case in eDocket,” select “Search,” select “Docket Search,” and then insert the Company Name and Docket Number or Year-Matter. Messages can be left at (602) 282-8890 requesting information for alternative access to the Application to Amend. The Applicant will make available final copies of the prehearing conference and hearing transcripts on the Project and ACC websites referenced above.

Each county, municipal government, and state agency interested in the Project that desires to be a party to the proceedings shall, not less than ten days before July 26, 2021, file a Notice of Intent to Become a Party with the Director of Utilities, ACC, 1200 West Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85007. Any domestic non-profit corporation or association formed in whole or in part to promote conservation or natural beauty, to protect the environment, personal health or other biological values, to preserve historical sites, to promote consumer interests, to represent commercial and industrial groups, or to promote the orderly development of the area in which the Project is located that desires to become a party to the proceedings shall, not less than ten days before July 26, 2021, file a Notice of Intent to Become a Party with the Director of Utilities, ACC, 1200 West Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85007. The Committee or the Chairman, at any time deemed appropriate, may make other persons parties to the proceedings. Any person may make a limited appearance at a hearing by filing a statement in writing with the Director of Utilities, ACC, 1200 West Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85007, not less than five days before July 26, 2021. A person making a limited appearance will not be a party or have the right to present testimony or cross-examine witnesses. This proceeding is governed by A.R.S. §§ 40-360 to 40-360.13 and Arizona Administrative Code Rules R14-3-201 to R14-3-220. Substantive communication not in the public record may not be made to any member of the Committee. The written decision of the Committee will be submitted to the Commission pursuant to A.R.S. §40-360.07. Any person intending to be a party to the proceeding on the matter before the ACC must be a party to the proceeding before the Committee. ORDERED this 11th day of June 2021. /s/

Exhibit A

Thomas K. Chenal, Chairman Arizona Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Committee Assistant Attorney General

CLASSIFIEDS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 16, 2021

thefoothillsfocus.com

To place an ad: 480-898-6465 class@timespublications.com Employment General

Air Conditioning/Heating

Auto Engine Machinist

American Engines Only. Experience Required. References Needed. Full Time or Part Time. Email Resume to:

acct.phxengine @gmail.com

Furniture/Refinishing/Upholstery

Irrigation

J&B Furniture

Looking for Handyman 40 Hours per Week Monday Thru Friday Anthem Area Call Nat 623-330-7842 Assistant Pastor: f/t; Nonprofit Christian church; conduct pastoral activities; Master of Divinity or Related; Resume: Scottsdale Worship Center @ 6508 E. Cactus Rd., Scottsdale,AZ 85254

Cleaning Services

Deadline: Wednesday at 5pm for the following Wednesday

ROC#215280

CONSIGNMENT

Carpet, Tile-Grout, & Air Duct Cleaning AZ PERFECT COMFORT

Commercial & Residential

A/C & Heating Services

FREE ESTIMATES

Info@azperfect comfort.com

Call Today/Clean Today

(602)789-3000

Licensed/Bonded/Insured

Housecleaning www.pnponecarecleaning.com

602.550.7732

azperfectcomfort.com

Commerical/Industrial/Retail Affordable Anthem Executive Office Suite for Lease in Gateway Office Park. Incl: Internet, util, alarmed. 623-696-8670

Concrete & Masonry

H errera’s M asonry LLC

WE SELL NEW and GENTLY USED FURNITURE & HOME DECOR

BEST PRICES ON MATTRESS SETS Tuesday – Saturday 10am - 5pm Sunday & Monday Closed

Irrigation

& Landscape est. 2002 ~ Anthem, Arizona

Install • Repair • Replace

42407 N. Vision Way – Anthem, AZ

623.551.4135

623-203-7717

Glass/Mirror • Custom Glass • Shower Doors & Enclosures • Window Glass Replacement • Custom Mirrors • Glass Table Tops & Shelves Come and visit our custom glass showroom behind the Dairy Queen in Cave Creek.

Announcements

480-235-6101

Block Walls • Stucco Repairs • BBQ • Fireplace Concrete • Ret-Walls • Flower Beds • Iron Gates Licensed & Bonded ROC #154346

www.aboveandbeyondglass.com ROC 233846 & ROC 236899

Office: 480-575-7245 • Armando: 602-763-3696

Insurance

Free Estimates

CALL CLASSIFIEDS

480-898-6465

We'll Get Your Phone to Ring! We Accept:

Discount up to 30% with Drive Safe & Save !*

Landscape/Maintenance

™

Justin Simons, Agent 3655 W Anthem Way, Anthem, AZ 85086

FREE ESTIMATES • 623-465-2546

623-551-3700

justin.simons.j663@statefarm.com

Drywall

DONALDSON DRYWALL Cave creek Resident Since 1984 • Water Damage • TV Niche Changes • Texture Match • Repairs/Remodels • New construction

FREE ESTIMATES 480-861-1375

Family Owned & Operated

Licensed Bonded Insured ROC #289594

I’m inviting you to make our roads safer and get rewarded for doing so. Are you in? Contact me today to get started.

PREMIER LANDSCAPING & GARDENING

• Custom Design • Water Feature • Container/Pot Gardens • Fireplaces & BBQs • Patio & Walls • Irrigation Specialists • Tree Trim/Removal • Bi-weekly/Monthly

Licensed, Bonded & Insured • ROC #166390

*Some customers could see a discount up to 50%. Discount names, percentages, availability and eligibility may vary by state and coverage selected. Enrollment, terms and conditions apply. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas, Richardson, TX

MISSED THE DEADLINE? Call us to place your ad online!

480-898-6465

CLASSIFIEDS

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 16, 2021

HIRING?

Landscape Design/Installation HAWKEYE LANDSCAPING INC 85085 local company. Doing business for over 22 years. ROC CR-21138105, ROCB-3284133. Providing all your custom design and installation needs. 623-582-1122 HawkeyeCustom Landscaping.com

People are looking at the Classifieds Every day! Email Your Job Post to: class@times publications.com or Call

480-898-6465

Landscape/Maintenance

Windows

AZCAN

DUKES EXCAVATING

All Your Window Covering Needs & Security Doors. Tint, Sunscreens, Patio Shades, Plantation Shutters, Wood Blinds. Check our web site for products & ref's. Family Own/Op 623-465-0373

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 888709-0796 (AzCAN)

Licensed, Bonded, Insured ROC# 286896 Desert Hills Sunscreens LLC

DONATE YOUR CAR TO CHARITY. Receive maximum value of write off for your taxes. Running or not! All conditions accepted. Free pickup. Call for details. 866-932-4184 (AzCAN)

SEPTIC SYSTEMS ◆ COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL CONVENTIONAL, ALTERNATIVE SEWER, STORM DRAIN & RETENTION SITE DEVELOPMENT ◆ UTILITIES ROC KA 302118 General Contractor JIM DUKES

623.606.8411

515 E. Carefree Hwy, #44, Phoenix, AZ 85085 dukesexcavatinginc@gmail.com

dhwindowcoverings.com

CLASSIFIEDS

480-898-6465

Welding Backhoe • Hammer Hoe • Grade Tractor 1,000 Gallon Water Wagon • Dump Trailer Septic Install & Repair (Lic. #276732) Tree Brush and Cactus Removal Road/Driveway Repair & Maintenance Utility Trenching & Plumbing Construction Cleanup Material Screening

North Valley Landscaping Quality you deserve for a great price you can afford.

✔ Yard Clean-ups ✔ Maintenance ✔ Tree trimming ✔ Water features ✔ Irrigation / Repair

FREE ESTIMATES! Call Brian

480-388-9442 Sprinkler Repair Landscaping & More!

• Affordable Same Day Service • Dependable • Guaranteed • 12 Years Experience

No Job Too Big or Small

Residential & Commercial

KIB EXCAVATING Your Septic System Experts

Complete Septic Systems • Conventional & Alternative and Repairs

Engineered Pads • Site Prep • Grading • Hard Digs Utilities • Trucking/Hauling • Driveways (Gravel, Dirt and Rock)

Mobile

602.319.1089

Licensed • Bonded • Insured COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL

Roofing

PHILLIPS ROOFING LLC Member of ABM

Licensed • Bonded • Insured ROC 223367

Valleywide

CR 42 DUAL

623-873-1626 All employees verified Free estimates on all roofs 36 Years experience in AZ Licensed contractor since 2006

CaveCreekWelding.com

Roofing

Almeida Roofing Inc. All Types of Roofing

602-743-3175 Free Estimates & Inspections • Tile • Shingles Foam • Coatings • Modiﬁed Bitumen • New Roof Repairs • Reroofs

www.almeidaroofing.com Licensed • Bonded • Insured • ROC #215758

Sell Your Stuff! CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

Electric • Acetylene • Heliarc Equipment • Fireplace Screens Repair • Blacksmithing Portable Equipment • Gates Fencing • Wrought Iron Work Home Accessories • Small Repairs & More!

480-488-3677

602-330-6965

Call Classifieds Today! 480.898.6465

Cave Creek Welding, Inc.

phillipsroofingaz.com phillipsroofing@cox.net

It Only Takes Seconds to Drown. Always watch your child around water.

THE FOOTHILLS FOCUS | THEFOOTHILLSFOCUS.COM | JUNE 16, 2021

Recent Storms and COVID have Substantially Impacted Supply Chain

= 2020

2021

Inventory is Scarce Now and when the Heat hits, Quilted won’t be an Option

Replace your A/C while you have Time for only $ 79/month* *On approved credit only, please call for details.

Call or Text to Schedule an Appointment

AIR

CONDITIONING

•

ELECTRICAL

•

PLUMBING

•

WATER

TREATMENT