west valley magazine may 2011

westvalleymagazine.com • May • June 2011 | 3

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May-June 2011Volume 7 • Issue 6

wv features

9 Beath the Heat this summer3 Southern Arizona Destinations.

on the town

10 Fashion FantasticoA wearable Arts Show in the West Valley.

wv fashion

12 Fashion Rocks MIMPhoenix fashion week kicked off it’s 2011 series of

events by teaming up with the Musical Instruments

Museum.

14 Splashy Outdoor Entertainment Unique Rock and Waterscapes design spectacular

custom water features.

wv 24

27 West Valley 24Jennifer Martyn and David Iwanski

make the list for the month.

wv financial

24 Retirement PlanningGolf and Resorts in Arizona to spend your retirement.

wv live life

28 Stressed Out?Massage your way to better health.

31 West Valley Magazine’s Excellence In Health Care AwardsDr. Tawnya Pfitzer and Loraine Gonzalez

make the list for this month.

36 Volunteers Give H.O.P.E to Cancer PatientsH.O.P.E. Team, a non-profit organization supports

the patients and their families at Cancer Treatment

Centers of America.

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6 | May • June 2011 • westvalleymagazine.com

38 American Heart AssociationSeven tips to live a long, productive and healthy life.

39 IMS ARIZONA MARATHON IMS donates to John J. Rhodes Airman Leadership School.

wv biggest loser40 Superior Court Employees Are Serious

Two Superior Court employees make a lifestyle change through the Biggest Loser Program.

44 Grand Canyon PoolsBackyard Transformations make Entertaining a Splash.

wildlife world zoo46 Spring Brings Baby Animal Boom at

Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium

60 Organized ChaosWhat Young Life is and what it does for high school students.

54 West Valley National Bank Announces Opening of Scottsdale BranchStrategic location central to niche markets.

wv green living56 Green Schools

Why schools benefit your kids and the environments.

57 Healthy Eating Ain’t EasyChanging your eating habits and getting rid of junk food.

wv dinning60 The Best Restaurants in the Valley

Taps, a place to eat, drink and have fun with friends.

74 CalendarThe who, what, when and where for May.

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May-June 2011Volume 7 • Issue 6

contents

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Editorial submissions are welcome. Please submit to

[email protected]

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prohibited without expressed written consent.

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MAY • 2011VOLUME 7 • ISSUE 6

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ComingNextMonthLocal resorts can give you thepampering you deserve without expensive airfare. We’ll be exploring some of your optionswithin driving distance.

Connecting our Communities

www.westvalleymagazine.com

EDITORTrish Arana

ADVERTISING COORDINATORKim O’Leary

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTSTina Williams, 623-210-1616

[email protected]

Elizabeth Bua, [email protected]

Sully, [email protected]

Rebecca McClanahan, [email protected]

CONTRIBUTORSDru Bacon, Betsy Rice, Jason Keele

Patricia Krogh, Cory Beal, Dr. Grey Stafford,Edwin H. Smith, Bob Purtell, Jennifer Olson

Steven Cook, ARA Content

PHOTOGRAPHERSMichael Jordan, Melody Golden

ART DIRECTORMarisol Munoz

Trish Arana

Yeah it’s May! Arizona in May is the finest weather a person couldpossibly hope for. We may hit the triple digits a few times this month,but for the most part we’re going to be bouncing around in the 90sand that suits this little jogger just fine. Maggi (my dog) and I arehitting the trails pretty early now and enjoying the cool morningbreezes. It’s normally pretty pleasant and uneventful other than coming across a rather large turtle on the side of the trail one morning. It was pretty funny watching Maggi try to figure out what

the heck it was. Anyway, my little bundle of love had one of those moments this morning andthought that rolling in something really disgusting was a good idea. I was gagging over the messand stench as I lead her into the shower. I wondered what might have possessed her to do sucha thing and wrote it off as just another one of those things that a mom has to deal with. I knowsome of you may not consider bringing up puppies as motherhood, but I can see some pretty compelling similarities to brining up teenagers. I have had the wonderful experience ofbeing a step mom and have plenty of funny stories and cherished memories, some of whichweren’t too far off from my experience with my dog this morning. Our kids can do some crazythings as they test the waters and make their way in life, I’m sure just as we did at their age. I wouldn’t change my step-parenting experience for the world and I believe that I can speak formost step moms out there. We honor step moms and any moms this Mother’s Day for all the wonderful things that moms do…Happy Mother’s Day.

Within these pages you will find splashy outdoor and indoor entertainment. Unique Rock & Waterscapes and Grand Canyon Pools can transform backyards into an entertainmentparadise. Michael Jordan has the splashy indoor entertainment covered with great shots fromFashion Rocks MIM (Musical Instrument Museum). If you haven’t visited the Musical InstrumentMuseum yet, you’ll want to put that on your day trip list after you see this spread. He also gotthe shot above of Jennifer Olson, Mrs. Goodyear and I enjoying Estrella Mountain CommunityCollege’s Fashion Wars II.

If you’re searching for some extreme indoor and outdoor entertainment in the West Valleyin May, you must check out Fashion Fantastico, a wearable arts show. You’ll see artistically designed costumes weaving throughout a performance of dance and vocals choreographed tothe theme of Phantom of the Opera. Most fashion shows are focused on linking fashion designerswith buyers. Fashion Fantastico is linking fine art with performing arts, delivering the ultimateentertainment experience. The VIP Dessert Reception follows the show with a live performancefrom Jay Soto and a close up look at the costumes. Tickets to this exquisite event would makewonderful Mother’s Day gift. There’s your tip of the month from me. Enjoy the read.

Ieditor’s letter

3 SOUTHERN ARIZONADestinations to Help Beat the Heat

In the heat of summer those of ustrapped in the West Valley usually headnorth to destinations like Flagstaff,

Prescott, Payson, or Pinetop but actuallythere are chilly sweater-optional-type-spotsdown south as well and plenty of activities toenjoy.

BIRD WATCHING IN PATAGONIA

Bird watching has a bad reputation asbeing for the old or stogy but southern Ari-zona provides such a dazzling array of birdsthat even the novice can appreciate the col-orful variety. Stay at the Spirit Tree Inn justoutside of Patagonia and wake to a gourmetbreakfast that is completely different every-day. Enjoy the charm of staying in a histori-cal house built in 1925. Ask owners Tom andMary Jane about the many local opportuni-ties to spot wildlife. Also check out the realAmish barn from 1830 resting on the prop-erty.

Patagonia has recently had a rebirth ofsorts as an artist community. There is plentyto keep you busy for a nice weekend trip.

RANCH LIFE IN SONOITA

Southern Arizona is cattle country. Turn-ing off the I-10 toward Sonoita you discovera hidden gem, a mostly unappreciated Ari-zona treasure. Rolling grassy hills likenowhere else in this state. You’ll noticecountless cattle grazing, lush farms, andplentiful vineyards.

At Walker Ranch owner Jody Walker is abusy woman. In her spare time she cooks

breakfast to order andrents out immaculaterooms. Rarely will you find amore successfully run “side” business.

The days may be warm, but the eveningsbring cool breezes, especially during themonsoon season when we are miserablysweaty in the West Valley. Renting any of therooms here means an opportunity to workup a sweat in their underground gym. It is afully stocked facility that features both hard-wood basketball and racquetball courts.

Rent the outdoor rooms and have the pooland have the large property almost to yourself.

SIPPING ARIZONA WINE IN ELGIN

There are ten wineries in and around Elginand Sonoita in Southern Arizona's WineCountry. Some offer fun and experimentalsweet wines while others focus on the highquality varietals most often found in Europe.

Go with an open mind and be willing to trywines you've never heard of. Most of thewineries offer a reduced price if you bringyour glass from the last winery you visited.At many spots you' will get a chance to talkwith the vintner and/or vineyard proprietor.

A good winery to visit first is Sonoita Vine-yards. Established by a University of Arizonaprofessor in the 1980's it is the oldest oper-ating vineyard in the state. Their beautifulestate is often the spot of weddings andlarge parties.

Around the bend from Sonoita Vineryards is Callaghan Vineyards. Drink up the wine

that helped to put Arizona on the map. KentCallaghan's talent for producing high qualityblended wines has earned him nationalrecognition. Not bad for an area known forcowboys and border security.

Really, it’s hard not to have fun at any ofthese estates. The wide-open spaces andgreat beverages to sample leave most visi-tors happy they came and eager to returnagain. Visit southern Arizona for the coolerweather, bird watching, arts, and wine.

By Jason Keele

Fashion Fantastico, a wearable artsevent supported by the LeadershipWest professional organization andthe West Valley Arts Council, has of-ficially opened the runway with de-

tails on its inaugural event. Centered on anupscale, ornate theme drawing from thepowerful performances of Broadway showsand the spectacle of red carpet glamour,Fashion Fantastico will merge fashion, finearts, performance and more the night of Sat-urday, May 14th at the Estrella Vista Recep-tion Center in Avondale, Arizona.

“This is truly a fantastic time for both WestValley and the artist communities that call ithome,” said, Trish Arana, a member of theinaugural event’s board and managing team.“This event will set this region of GreaterPhoenix aside as one of the more progressivearts destinations worldwide.”

More than two-dozen artists have alreadysubmitted designs and more will likely beadded before the upcoming Artists’ Deadline,said Arana. Though sponsorships are stillavailable for this cutting-edge event, severaloffered their support the moment they wereintroduced to the concept. These include thefashion-forward Phoenix Forma, specialevent designers Themers, the Anderson In-stitute of Music, Arrowhead Lexus and WestValley Magazine.

“As the big night nears,you can feel the

momentum growing inevery way,”

said Arana.

“The artists list is growing,more sponsors are jumping

at the opportunity to takepart, and people are savingthe date. They’re all excited

to experience somethingtruly unique.”

Tickets for the event start at $25 for gen-eral admission with $55 VIP tickets and$1,500 tables of ten available as well. All tick-ets must be purchased before the night of theevent and can be picked up at Will Call.

ABOUT FASHION FANTASTICOFashion. Art. Passion. Pageantry. Perform-ance. This is the world of Fashion Fantastico– the first wearable art show in the South-western United States. It starts with thehuman body as the canvas, drawing fromfashion and art to create a new expression.Artists are asked to go deep into their imag-ination to create a wearable piece of art thatchallenges what most consider to be wear-able, or everyday fashion. Fashion Fantasticois committed to challenging artists of allmediums to push their imaginations to cre-ate evocative, imaginative and thought pro-voking sculpture for the human body.Participating artists have an opportunity tonot only win prize money, but also have theirartwork modeled during a live performanceand displayed as part of an exhibit. Prizemoney is awarded to the winners of theevent's categories and special awards, as de-cided by a panel of judges and the public.Fashion Fantastico is a 501 (3) C Non-profit. Aportion of the proceeds will benefit Arts, Ed-ucation and Tourism in the West Valley.

For more information call (800) 799-0540 orvisit www.fashionfantastico.com.

ABOUT LEADERSHIP WESTAs a professional development organization,Leadership West cultivates leadership capi-tal for the West Valley region of GreaterPhoenix. This is done through several com-ponents of a year-long program, including agroup retreat, educational issue days, andsustaining, community-building projects. Formore information, visit www.leadership-west.org.

ABOUT WEST VALLEY ARTS COUNCILThe West Valley Arts Council (WVAC) exists tobuild audiences for all of the arts, to drivearts policy forward, and to champion arts ed-ucation throughout the West Valley. WVAChas been central to creating what is recog-nized as a “high quality of life” for West Val-ley residents, and is the onlymulti-disciplinary arts organization of its typeand scope in the Valley. For more information,visit www.wvac.org.

ESTRELLA VISTA RECEPTION CENTER1471 N. Eliseo Felix Jr. Way, Avondale, AZ 85323. Just North of Van Buren & East of Dysart Road.SATURDAY, MAY 14, 20115:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Registration, Cocktails & Tabletop Displays7:00 p.m. to 8:30 pm. FASHION FANTASTICO SHOW8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. VIP Dessert Reception with live music (Jay Soto)TICKETS AVAILABLE ON-LINE AT www.fashionfantasico.com$25 General Admission$55 VIP (includes Dessert Reception)

Fashion FANTASTICOA WEARABLE ARTS SHOW

O N T H E T O W N P l a c e s a n d e v e n t s g o i n g o n i n t h e W e s t V a l l e y


FA S H I O N W h a t t o w e a r a n d w h e r e t o f i n d w a y s t o i m p r o v e y o u r s t y l e

The Phoenix Fashion Week organi-zation kicked off its 2011 series ofevents by teaming up with theMusical Instrument Museum

(MIM) for a first-ever fashion showcasefusing the heart-pounding sights of a high-energy runway production and the trans-formative sounds of globally-focusedmusic. The theme, fittingly enough, was“Fashion Rocks MIM” and showcased art,music, style and the evolution of street cul-

ture and music-influenced fashion trends.On Thursday, March 31, guests at MIMwere treated to trendy fashions and clas-sic designer styles, with an interactivefashion show and tour of the AmericanSabor exhibition in the Target Gallery, fol-lowed by an after party at the Blue Martini.

This special event served as one of twospring preview events hosted by PhoenixFashion Week in anticipation of the 7th

annual Phoenix Fashion Week scheduledto take place in Fall 2011.

For “Fashion Rocks MIM”, four top inter-nadtional designers showcased sixteen runway looks conceived by notablePhoenix stylists set to the sounds of inter-nationally-renowned DJ Q. Extensive sceneproduction builte each collection’s runway,inspired by both the music and cultural details of the designer’s home country.

KICKED OFF 2011 SERIES OF EVENTS WITH

Excellence in design is the goal of Unique Rock and Waterscapes, Inc. You will find it evidentin their constant pursuit of unsurpassed artistry, quality, and function. They combine nature, ex-isting structures, and custom molded faux boulders to create a surrounding environment that

compliments your lifestyle. Few additions to a landscaped yard are more spectacular and reward-ing than that of a custom water feature and no one can deny their power and attraction. A properlydesigned and well-placed waterfall can provide an area of escape and solitude or become a cen-terpiece for entertaining and excitement. See more at www.uniquerockandwater.com.

LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER, MICHAEL JORDAN CAPTURES THE WEST VALLEY ONE PHOTO AT A TIME.

MJPROPIX.COM | [email protected]

westvalleymagazine.com • May • June 2011 | 17westvalleymagazine.com • May • June 2011 | 17

FASHION WARS II

Members of the Estrella Mountain CommunityCollege and The West Valley Fashion Groupbrought Fashion Wars II to the Wigwam Resort.Over four hundred people attended an ultimateFashion experience. There were six unique fash-

ion shows with twenty different emerging designers all show-casing their talents and designs. The night featured much morethan fashion. Entertainment was a big part of the evening. Theevening was highlighted by DJ J Ques withperformances by Margareth Baruelo, EMCC Moves, NicholasHaynes and Daniel Slade, and concluded with a special performance by Candice Chavez.

Fashion Wars Director, Patrick Thomas and the events execu-tive board included Co-Director, Gina Torres, Program Director,Jennifer Complot, Marking Director, Christina Moreno and therest of the Fashion Wars II executive board. Winners for this com-petition were Raye Shao taking first place in the collection designcompetition with second place going to Martini Couture. Winnersfor individual design competition taking first place were MelindaGray and Hershel Jackson with second place going to MarlinTlaseca. In the best dressed competition Steven Lara won for themen with Malinda Anderson winning in the women’s category.This was truly a night to remember for members of the EstrellaMountain Community College and The West Valley FashionGroup as well as all in attendance. These wonderful organizations achieved their goal and brought high fashion backto the west valley.


By Kathy Knecht, Executive Director Leadership West

“Jennifer Martyn is the type of person that giveseveryone energy,” said Chuck Fitzgerald. “She andI worked on our Leadership West class project together Raising Awareness for Arizona 211. Wewere successful because of Jen’s professional experience at SRP and her network that allowedus to get a meeting with Governor Napolitano’sstaff.”

Chuck Fitzgerald, a fellow Class XIII LeadershipWest member of Martyn’s, has had the opportu-

nity to serve with her on a non-profit board thatworked with the homeless in Glendale. “Jen wasso incredible on knowing how to get to the heartof a matter and get everyone to work together,” said Fitzgerald. “With Jen on the boardwe always got so much accomplished and wereable to successfully fundraise and get thingsdone.”

Jennifer Martyn has dedicated much of her timeand talents to serve for several civic and non-profit organizations through the years such as:Leadership West, board member and secretary;Quality of Life, board member; Habitat for Humanity, committee member; and volunteer forSt. Mary’s Food Bank, Fowler School School Dis-trict, Murphy School District, With Child Center,Science Olympiad and Andre House.

Born in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, Jennifer “Jen”Martyn moved to Arizona in the early 1970s. Sheand her family lived mostly in Tempe where Mar-tyn went to McClintock High School. She was avarsity athlete and played softball, basketball andbadminton.

After graduating from Mesa Community College, she moved to Salt Lake City to be part ofa team that opened the new Discover Card Serv-

ices. Because Martyn doesn’t like the cold, she re-turned to school in Arizona just over a year later.She attended ASU West and earned a Bachelor ofArts in organizational communications. Martyncompleted an internship at the Peoria Chamber ofCommerce where she was hired full time. It wasthere that she met her role model, Cindy WileyLaRue who was also her supervisor. “Cindy and Iworked hard but we always had fun together.”

In 1996, Martyn was hired at Salt River Project(SRP) as a coordinator of the SRP Speakers’ Bureau. Since that time, she has managed SRPSafety Connection and SRP Volunteers. In 2000,Martyn earned her MBA in marketing from Western International University and in 2001earned a certificate in community relations fromCarroll School of Management at Boston College.

When she is not at work or volunteering, Martyn enjoys golf, exercising, traveling andspending time with family and friends. Her familyincludes her parents, Gary and Karen; an olderbrother, Bryan, who is a Pinal County Supervisor;Bryan’s wife, Susie; and their children: Ryan,Tyler, Zack and a younger sister, Shawn. Jen andher boyfriend Randy have four dogs: Murphy,Maggie, Irie and Lola.

Years in the West Valley17

Favorite quote: “I can do all things through Christ whostrengthens me”. Philippians 4:13

Who in history would you most like to have dinner with? Jesus

What’s your favorite book?Freakonomics and Super Freakonomincs bySteven Levitt & Stephen Dubner

What’s your favorite musical group?Everything. My iPod has everything from Chris-tian Rock to Neil Diamond to the Beach Boysto Linkin Park.

What do you miss most? My grandfather, Perry McManama Jr. He was areserve officer and a chaplin for the TucsonPolice Department before he passed away. Hewas very funny and always made me feel safe.

What’s your biggest inspiration and why?My parents. They have an incredible workethic. They work hard, always make time toplay and they are best friends.

What do you know about life that you wish youhad known 10 to 20 years ago? I’m the only person that can make me happy.

What is your favorite place in the West Val-ley?Westgate. There’s always something going onand the crowd is great.

Most Coveted: Family and friends

What is your favorite cause?Adoption. It has touched my life and somethingI feel very strong about.

Most overrated virtue?Popularity

What’s your nickname?Jen or Jenny.

Describe yourself as a child:I knew no stranger. I was extremely hyper andtalked too much, or so my teachers alwayssaid.

What keeps you up at night? How can I make (fill in the blank) better?

One phrase you wish people wouldn’t say, orwould say more: Saying more of please and thank you. It’s sobasic but so under used.

What’s your favorite food?Pepperoni, green pepper, onion, mushroom,extra cheese pizza!

What is your biggest pet peeve?Laziness.

What would you choose to do, career wise, ifyou weren’t in your current career? Either a pro golfer or a sports newscaster.

What would you do if you won the lottery?After paying off bills for family and friends, Iwould play golf all over the world and fundadoption-related nonprofits.

Tell us something about you that perhaps theaverage person wouldn’t know? I love professional football, specifically theMinnesota Vikings. I have a tattoo on my rightshoulder. Some day, mark my words; they willwin the Super Bowl!

What originally drew you to the West Valley?I went to ASU West and received my Bachelorof Arts in organizational communications. Thatis a wonderful campus.

How did you get into your current careerfield?I was hired at SRP to manage their speakers’bureau. Who would have thought that talkingtoo much in school would lead to a career.

What drives you? Being competitive.

What are your goals (career, personal or forthe West Valley)?I would like to be able to look back and seewhere I have helped to make a difference or in-spired someone to make a difference.

What is the secret to your success?Networking. I have found that there are somany great resources out there. Collectively,anything can be fixed/restored/solved with theinput of great minds.

How do you feel the West Valley has affectedyou, and how do you feel you’ve affected theWest Valley? I have enjoyed being involved with so many upand coming projects affecting an entire region.There’s so much potential to be involved andbe part of something big.

What would you recommend to people look-ing to make a difference in the West Valley?Definitely Leadership West. Just when youthink you know everything about the West Val-ley, along comes a nonprofit that opens thedoor to hot topics with the experts to educateyou on the issues. It’s also an incredible oppor-tunity to meet other leaders and give back tothe community.

Who was an influence in your career, and howdid they affect what you do?Cindy Wiley LaRue. She was my boss while Iworked at the Peoria Chamber of Commerce.She loved the West Valley and was alwayslooking for ways to make it better. She was aninspiration.

MOVER

[ Q & A ]

Jennifer Martyn LEADER PROFILE

mov•er

[moo-ver] v.

moving up in business or the community


“After serving four years on active duty withthe United States Army, David Iwanski went towork for Arizona Congressman Eldon Rudd. OnIwanski’s first day, Congressman Rudd told himthat his primary responsibility was to learn every-thing he could about western water and energyissues. Iwanski has been working on water, energy, environmental and agri-business policy issues at the Federal, State and Local levels ofgovernment ever since.

“David Iwanski is always the "Go to Guy forthe West Side," said Judge Clancy Jayne of theDesert Ridge Justice Court. “Having worked withDavid for almost 20 years, his knowledge of is-sues is second to no one.”

“My wife, Sherri, and my family provide arock solid foundation for everything I do,” saidIwanski who, while serving on the U.S. Armylegal staff at the Pentagon, was part of the legalteam that handled several of the Iranian hostagesafter their return from Tehran. “It was a once in alifetime experience and having had the privilegeto serve those individuals is something I willnever forget.”

Having been born and raised in Milwaukee,Iwanski enjoyed his frequent trips back to Arizona while serving for his mentor, Congress-

man Eldon Rudd as Rudd’s Appropriations Com-mittee staff liaison. “I traveled all over the Valley,and the Westside had a flavor and appeal that impressed me. The Arizona weather didn’t hurt either.”

Iwanski served diligently in civic and non-profit organizations over the course of his careerin Arizona and the West Valley: WESTMARC, Cityof Glendale Board of Adjustments, City of Avon-dale Planning Commission, Governor’s GrowthManagement Committee, National Water Resources Association, Agri-Business Council ofArizona, Agri-Business and Equine Center Char-ter Schools and Saguaro Ranch Park Foundation.

Iwanski’s accomplishments and service to Arizona could not have happened without hismentors who inspired him to give generously ofhis time and skills. “My parents, Mert and Bernadine Iwanski, who have been married for almost 64 years, taught my sister, Melody, and Iabout love, honor, respect, sacrifice and to alwayshave a good sense of humor,” said Iwanski.

Formerly the City of Goodyear Water ResourcesManager, Iwanksi has also been a leader in thecities of Goodyear, Avondale and Litchfield Park’sefforts to manage the clean-up of groundwatercontamination from the Phoenix-Goodyear

Airport Unidynamics Superfund Site. “I had a leadrole in coordinating efforts between the cities, theU. S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality,technical consultants, the Citizens AdvisoryGroup and citizens” said Iwanski whose effortsassisted the cities to contain plume migration andto develop a much more aggressive approach toclean-up.

[ Q & A ]

LEADER PROFILE

David Iwanski S H A K E R

shak•er

[shey-ker] v.

long established change agent/builder

Years in West Valley:25

Family:My wife, Sherri, is a second generation Arizo-nan.

Favorite quote:John F. Kennedy “Ask not what your country cando for you, but rather, ask what you can do foryour country.”

Who in history would you most like to havedinner with?Martin Luther King.

What’s your favorite book?Almost anything written by Lee Child.

What’s your favorite musical group?The Beatles

Who do you miss the most?My cousin Gary Scott Lloyd, a marine who waskilled while on active duty. He was with the Unitthat guarded the Presidential helicopters atQuantico. He was much more like a brother tome, than my cousin. His mother is my god-mother.

What is your favorite place in the West Valley?The Wigwam Resort

Most coveted:The City of Avondale Veteran’s Day ceremony.

What is your favorite cause?Being able to assist people who are less fortunate.

What would your super power be?Mind reading so that I could predict the stockmarket and price of gold.

What’s your nickname?“Duffy”

Describe yourself as a child:Skinny, out-going, hyperactive and fun to bearound

What keeps you up at night?Lately, the federal budget deficit and the dramatic impact it will have on our Nation andits citizens.

One phrase you wish people wouldn’t say, orwould say more:Use the word “entitlement” less and the words“thank you” more often

What’s your favorite food?Osso Buco

What is your biggest pet peeve?People who promise to call you back and thendon’t.

What would you choose to do, career wise, if you weren’t in your current career?Teach at the High School or College level.

What drives you?Pride in my work and the satisfaction of doingsomething well.

What are your career goals?I want to continue in policy development on keyissues of importance to the West Valley. Water,energy, transportation, availability of venturecapital, education, health care, job creation andgenerating wealth are all tied together.

What is the secret to your success?I try really hard to take criticism well and to usethat as motivation. Being well read and well informed is also an asset. I am extremely fortunate to have a significant network of colleagues and friends that provide expertise, support, inspiration and the trust to be open andhonest. These people are incredible.

How do you feel the West Valley has affectedyou, and how do you feel you’ve affected theWest Valley?There always seemed to be an “image problem”with this side of town. The “East Valley” versus“West Valley” mentality existed, with Phoenix,the “600 pound gorilla” in the middle. This wholedynamic has made me work hard to attain equalpartnership status with any other part of theValley or State.

What would you recommend to people looking to make a difference in the West Valley?Get engaged in your community and the politicalprocess. Make your voice heard in appropriateforums if you have ideas, criticisms or just wantto vent an issue.

Who was an influence in your career, and howdid they affect what you do?D. Michael Rappoport, Associate General Manager for Salt River Project, was a mentor.He came to Washington, D.C. to lobby for a $650million Safety of Dams appropriation, when Ihad just started working for CongressmanRudd. Mike’s exact words to me were “kid,here’s how we are going to make your boss lookgood”. The best lobbyist and politically savvy individual I have ever known and I have beenaround elected officials my entire life.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing the West Valley, and how does what youdo help ease those challenges?Job creation is at the top of my list. Offering all ofthe elements for successful business develop-ment is critical. The question everyone shouldask is “what do people need to live, work, recre-ate and invest in the West Valley? The cumulative answers to that question will dictate a strategy formoving forward. My role is not to ease those challenges but to meet those challenges in waysthat are constructive, cost-effective and meaningful.

West Valley Magazine’s Grow Wealthy,

Not Rich program brings you useful

information from community partners in

the areas of financial fitness, investments,

loans, and other components to help

create a healthy lifestyle - no matter what

stage of life you are in. Take the journey as

we venture through different areas that

lead us to a healthy and wealthy lifestyle.

This month, being prepared for unexpected

life changes. �

GROWWEALTHY,

NOTRICH

F I N A N C I A L Advice on a financial fitness, investments, loans and other components to help create a healthy lifestyle


Beach resorts, golf resorts, luxury resorts, seaside resorts, spa resorts,ski resorts, cruise resorts, mountain resorts, casino resorts, valley re-sorts, forest resorts, historical resorts, lake resorts, themed resorts, allinclusive resorts. There is a plethora of resorts available to those want-ing to fill that adventurous need, scattered throughout this wonderfulcountry we live in. They even tempt us with resorts around the world and

last minute chances with unbelievable prices. The best deals sometimes are in yourown back yard. A staycation is a fantastic way to explore where you live. Resorts arewonderful. There are so many to choose from. You are sure to find the right one tosuit the exact mood you are looking for in your back yard.

At a resort you can do as little or as much as you want to. You could relax in front ofa crackling fire in a mountain ski resort in the middle of magnificent snow-cappedpeaks while wait for the sun to light your way through white waves of uncut winter snow.You may find yourself running barefoot in the warm waters of a stream under a scorch-ing hot sun overhead. There is always that oasis in the desert where the climate is per-fect all year long. With this great state of Arizona you are sure to find the vacation resortthat offers the personality and culture of your dreams.

Planning to go to the big city for the skyscrapers, restaurants or shopping malls takesa different look than planning for the back woods where there are numerous parks,lakes, streams and rivers.

A Megaresort is a type of destination resort which is of an exceptionally large size,sometimes featuring large-scale attractions such as a casino, multiple golf courses,theme park or a shopping complex. The hotels along the Las Vegas Strip and Walt Dis-ney Parks are most typically thought of as megaresorts owing to their immense sizeand complexity.

The coast has always been a recreational environment, although until the mid-nine-teenth century, such seaside resort recreation was a luxury only for the wealthy. Eventhough there is not a coast in Arizona many beach resorts are available. With im-

RETIREMENT PLANNINGRESORT PLANNING -

By Edwin Smith


provements in transportation even the far afield are just a short flightaway. This has led to the growth of coastal towns as seaside resorts.Recreational fishing and leisure boat pursuits can be big businessthese days, and traditional fishing villages are often well positioned totake advantage of this. The tourist appeal of fishing villages has be-come so big that the Korean government is purpose-building 48 fish-ing villages for their tourist drawing power.

A ski resort is developed for skiing and other winter sports. In Eu-rope a ski resort is a town or village in a mountainous area, wherethere are ski trails and supporting services such as hotels and otheraccommodation, restaurants, equipment rental and a ski lift system.Here In Arizona it is more common for ski areas to exist well awayfrom towns, and the term ski resort is used for a destination resort,often purpose-built and self-contained, where skiing is the main ac-tivity.

The term spa is associated with water treatment which is alsoknown as balneotherapy. Spa resorts typically offer various healthtreatments. The term spa means to scatter, sprinkle or moisten andis derived in the belief in the curative powers of mineral waters goesback to prehistoric times. Day spas are also quite popular, and offervarious personal care treatments.

There are too many to mention here but Golf Resorts are huge inArizona with perfect weather for year round pleasure. One intimateretreat with a spirit all its own, on the west side of this great valley,you will find the luxury golf resort located in Litchfield Park know asthe Wigwam.

Beloved by generations, a resort rich in history, this Arizona land-mark for over 80 years and a Historic Hotel of America couples his-toric charm with a truly modern sense of adventure. Relax in elegantcomfort, but be sure to carve out time for our legendary golf on oneor all three courses, superb spa, and barreling down twisting waterslides. Enjoy 8000 rose bushes while relaxing at one of four pools.The Wigwam welcomes you to come make a little history of your ownin their elegantly crafted adobe and timber rich resort. From dawn'sfirst blush to the tangerine streaks of our Sonoran Desert sunsets,there are endless possibilities for your every occasion-whether busi-ness, romance, relaxation or rollicking family fun.

Whatever you decide to do or wherever you decide to go it is certainthat you will spend hours planning to ensure that everything will be toyour liking before you leave. You will plan to ensure that craving forsolitude or companionship will be satisfied. It takes a lot of researchtime so you don’t end up with a snow skiing vacation in June or a wa-ters skiing one in January. Planning is key to the success of yourdream expectations.

Planning for your retirement should include just as much consid-eration as planning for that well earned break. Retirement meanssomething different to each and everyone one of us. The definition ofretirement is the point where a person stops employment completely.It sounds simple but if you don’t have a plan to get to and through re-tirement it can be far from simple. What do you envision for your re-tirement? Do you want all resort visiting to end or would you like tocontinue visiting them for the rest of your life? When do you want toretire? When can you afford to retire? These are just a few of thequestions that need to be answered when planning for retirement.Does your ideal retirement life look a lot like the one you have now ordo you see more resort time. Your anticipated retirement lifestyle isa critical component when planning and deciding just how much sav-ings will be needed.

Do you want all inclusive vacations that take the worry out of thedaily task of eating and sleeping and what can I afford to do now or doyou want the freedom to do want you want when you want. There arelots of choices that take careful planning and considerations. Thereare lots of choices when planning for retirement. Researching andtalking with a financial advisor pays off in the long run. Take the samewisely spent time to develop a retirement plan that will fit yourplanned retirement lifestyle. There is no one size fits all answer towhich resort will fit you or to the “How much should I save?” questionof retirement.

BRINGING HEALTH CARE LEADERS AND CONSUMERS TOGETHER

� Innovations and Technologies

� Body Building Competition

� Products, Services and Demonstrations

� Fitness Fashion Show

� Health and Wellness Education Programs

� FREE to the Public

� Physical Fitness Challenges

� Health and Wellness Career Fair

� Health and Wellness Awards Gala

� Outdoor Culinary Pavilion

REACH INTERNATIONALCONSUMERS ANDRETAIL BUYERS!

THE LIVE LIFE EXPO WILL ATTRACT INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS AND ALL AGES FROM THE GENERAL PUBLIC

Exhibit with other health care professionals, medical institutions and innovators, clinics, specialty groups, physicians, educational institutions, and marketing leaders of: apparel, footwear, physical fitness, sports nutrition, personal care products and services,

health practitioners, exercise equipment and training accessories.

American Sports Center. Photo by Liam Frederick

THE PREMIER HEALTHCARE, WELLNESS AND LIFESTYLE EXPOFEB 17-19, 2012

AMERICAN SPORTS CENTERS – AVONDALE, ARIZONA

NOW INCLUDES FITNESS UNIVERSE COMPETITION EXCELLENCE IN HC AWARDS,

AND IMS MARATHON.

If you would like to sponsor or exhibit at the Live Life Expo, contact Stephanie Fogelson [email protected] or 623-332-2501

www.livelifeexpo.com – Join us on Facebook

Excellence In Health CareAWARDS/Excellence In Health CareAWARDS West Valley Magazine’s Top Doctors

and Health Care Professionals

VOLUNTEERSGIVE H.O.P.ETO CANCER PATIENTS

YOUR WAY TO BETTER HEALTH

MASSAGEYOUR WAY TO BETTER HEALTH

VOLUNTEERSGIVE H.O.P.ETO CANCER PATIENTS

LIVELIFE

did you know the health and fitness regime for each U.S.President requires weeklymassages? And that Bob Hopeattributed his 100-yearlongevity to receiving daily

massages? More and more people are real-izing that massage is no longer a lavish lux-ury; rather it’s an essential element in ourwellness routines due to its significant effecton improving health and lifestyle.

Today, unhealthy lifestyles are really takingtheir toll on Americans who are morestressed out than ever with the dour economywe’ve been enduring these last few years.The American Psychological Associationcites that most Americans feel moderate orhigh levels of stress which isn’t surprising.Most people have endless responsibilities tohandle, from mounting work pressure anddeadlines to juggling family and personal is-sues.

The impact that stress can have on ourlives is often underrated, but according to theAmerican Psychological Association, stressis linked to the six leading causes of death:heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, acci-dents, liver cirrhosis and suicide. It’s impor-tant we take time in our lives to cope withstress.

MASSAGE YOUR STRESS AWAYMassage therapy has been shown to

reduce stress hormones, help relieve anxietyand depression, strengthen the immune sys-tem and improve attentiveness. Additionally,it can help with tension-related headachesand improve circulation as well as reduce re-covery time in many medical conditions suchas allergies, insomnia, arthritis, etc.

In fact, a recent study at Cedars Sinai Medical Center showed that biologicalchanges occur after just one massage ther-apy session. Blood pressure and heart rate

are reduced as well as the stress hormonecortisol. Mental Health America, one of thelargest mental health associations in theU.S., recommends massage therapy as a wayto diffuse stress. Some employers are turning to workplace massage to help employees cope with uncertain times and increased workloads.

Research conducted by the American Massage Therapy Association found that de-spite the rough economic climate, the overalluse of massage therapy remains consistent:more than 40 percent of adult Americans areusing massage to help relieve stress.

All of this, of course, isn’t news to any of thefaithful members of Massage Envy, the nation’s leading therapeutic massageprovider. In Arizona alone, there are 30 Mas-sage Envy centers with thousands of mem-bers who regularly utilize massage for betterhealth.

MassageYOUR WAY TO BETTER HEALTH

By Steven Cook


FAMILY PRACTICE

URGENT CARE623-536-5353

Sun Valley Urgent Care, P.C. will provide treatment for many illnesses and occupational medicine services. The following list describes many of the illnesses or injuries we treat, including the additional services we offer at our facility.

ILLNESS & INJURY• Cold, cough, flu, and sinus infection• Upper respiratory problems, asthma, and bronchitis• Sore throat, earache, or headache• Abdominal pain• Back pain• Rash or skin infections

• Personalized healthcare tailored to you

• Physical exams for all ages• Immunizations for all ages• Asthma• Diabetes

ADDITIONAL SERVICES• School/Sports physicals• Department of Transportation physical exams• Drug screening services and breath alcohol testing

MON-FRI: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PMSAT-SUN: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM2910 N Litchfield Rd. Goodyear, Arizona 85395 623-218-6907

NO APPOINTMENT

NECESSARY

12409 W. Indian School Rd.,Building E. Avondale, AZ 85392 www.sunvalleymg.com

Sun Valley Family Practice offers comprehensive family care to the West Valley of the Phoenix Metro Area. We are committed tobringing the highest level of care to our patients, tailored to their needs. Our health care providers are board certified in family medicine.

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS • SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

MOST HEALTH INSURANCE PLANSARE ACCEPTED.

• Hypertension and Cholesterol Care• Maintenance of acute and chronic health conditions• Women’s gynecologic care• Allergy treatment• Sports medicine and exams• Skin care treatment

MON-FRI: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

• Eye infections• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea• Urinary tract infection• STD's• Limb fractures, sprains, and strains• Lacerations or wound care• Burns

• Immunizations• On-site digital x-ray 7 days per week• On-site lab services



Welcome to The West Valley Magazine’s Top

Doctors and Health Care Professionals. Each

month an outstanding physician and health care

professional from the West Valley who has been nominated by

their peers will be featured in the West Valley Magazine. These

physicians and health care profess ionals represent achieve-

ment and excellence in a variety of health care specialties and

fields. All those featured for the next year will be acknowl-

edged and recognized at the Live Life Expo Excellence in

Health Care Awards Gala on Saturday, March 10, 2012.

Dr. Barry Hamp Michael Hilgers

Mari Valle

Dr. Marc Wasseman

Dr. Tawnya Pfitzer Loraine Gonzalez

sponsored by:

April EschDr. Pankaj M. Jain


LIVELIFE

What inspired you to become a doctor? I have always had a love for science. As Igrew older, I knew that I wanted to workwith people. Medicine is a perfect combi-nation of the intellectual stimulation of sci-ence mixed with the personal satisfactionof working with people and helping them tosolve their problems.

Why did you pursue your specialty? Again, as I grew older, I realized that Iwanted to do surgery but I didn’t want myprofession to interfere with my ability to bethe kind of wife, mother and daughter thatI wanted to be. Podiatry is the perfect fit fora person who wants to dedicate themselvesto both their family and their profession.

What accomplishments are you mostproud of in your career? I am proud of the kind of environment thatwe have created in our clinic. It is importantto me that my patients feel that they arebeing cared for as an individual as opposed

to just a pathology that is isolated on thefoot.

Are you working on any developmentsoor projects in your field of specialty thatyou would like to tell us about? Our clinic hosts students from The ArizonaSchool of Podiatry at Midwestern Univer-sity. Through teaching and mentoring thesestudents, we are able to influence the fu-ture of podiatry.

What differentiates you and your practicefrom your peers? I think that our practice allows for the treat-ment of the whole patient by truly listeningto the patient and their problems. We treatthe person, not just the x-ray or the pathol-ogy. We function in a friendly environmentthat allows our patients to feel comfortableand minimize the anxiety often associatedwith visits to the doctor’s office.

What are the elements that make yourpatient/doctor relationship top notch? The same elements that make our clinicstand apart -- mainly communication. Notonly do we explain things thoroughly so thatour patients know why they are asked to docertain things, but we listen as well.

Why did you bring your practice to theWest Valley? I grew up in Avondale. My father was sta-tioned at Luke Air Force Base, so startingmy practice here was simply “cominghome.”

What do you see as the future of the WestValley as it relates to the health carefield?I see a bright future for continued growthand the addition of more specialties andtechnology.

Specialty: PodiatryDesert Canyon Foot & Ankle, A Division of IMSAvondale, Arizona

Hometown: Avondale, ArizonaUniversity/Degree: B.S., University of Arizona;D.P.M., California College of Podiatric Medicine

Dr. Tawnya Pfitzer

Best In ClassPodiatry


L IVELIFE

Office ManagerDesert Canyon Foot & Ankle, A Division of IMSAvondale, Arizona

Hometown: Avondale, ArizonaUniversity/Degree: Estrella Community College

Loraine Gonzalez

What inspired you to pursue a career inhealth care? When I was about 23, I was rushed to theemergency room with heart trouble. At thatmoment, no one knew what was wrong withme or if I was going to make it. While I wasin the emergency room, I met this wonder-ful person whom I call my angel. Sherlieheld my hand when I wanted to give up andnever left my side. She talked to me, rubbedmy back and reminded me that I had somuch to live for. I am a very spiritual womanand I thank God that she was in my life atthat moment.

We continued to stay in touch after I left thehospital, so one day I asked her, “Why do youlove your job so much?” Sherlie worked ina family physician’s practice during the weekand volunteered at the emergency room onthe weekends. She devoted her time tohelping people and told me that giving yourtime was the best gift you could give some-one.

After my youngest child went into the secondgrade, I decided to pursue a career in the

medical field. If you are passionate aboutsomething, God will always open the doorand help you succeed above and beyondanything you could have imagined. I con-tinue to teach my children this same life les-son.

What accomplishments are you mostproud of in your career? I am most proud of being able to make a dif-ference in people’s lives. I do my best tomake everyone smile when they come intothe office and let the patients know that theywill be well taken care of. I have worked hardto be where I am in my career and am happyworking as the office manager in this fam-ily-orientated working environment. I alsovery proud of my career as a mom.

Is the practice that your work for workingon any developments/projects in their fieldof specialty that you would like to tell usabout? At Desert Canyon Foot & Ankle, ourdoctors are always finding new ways tohelp their patients’ needs, from attend-ing seminars to researching the newesttrends in proper footwear.

What is your role in this development/project?I provide administrative support for what-ever projects they are working while managing the front and back offices.

What differentiates you from your peers? I make sure that our patients leave our of-fices happy and content with not only theirdoctor’s visit, but with the services that weprovide administratively. We have a wonder-ful staff and very caring doctors. I’m blessedto work with them. It is inspirational to seehow passionate and caring they are, not onlyin the office but as mothers too. I have alsoworked hard to become a multi-tasker in myadministrative duties.

What do you see as the future of the WestValley as it relates to the health care field?I see incredible growth in the field of healthcare. I also think the future of health care inthe West Valley must focus on physician involvement with their patients.

Best In ClassHealth Care Professional

westvalleymagazine.com • May • June 2011 |35

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LIVELIFE

Civil rights leader Martin Luther King,Jr. once said, “Life’s most persistentand urgent question is: What are you

doing for others?”

For three West Valley volunteers, the an-swer is providing help, optimism, peace andencouragement to cancer patients. As mem-bers of the H.O.P.E. Team, a non-profit organ-ization that supports the patients and theirfamilies Cancer Treatment Centers of Amer-ica®, Carol Fortier, Davida Mello and ScottWellman share their unique talents withthose in need. At the end of the day, however,these three unselfish individuals believe theyare the ones who are truly benefiting fromtheir volunteer work.

Cold nose and two warm heartsFor Davida Mello, volunteering at CTCA is a

team effort that requires the assistance ofher tiny mixed breed dog, Rico, whose over-sized ears are as big as his heart. In fact, itsRico’s oversized sonar appendages that oftenbreak the ice with patients and caregivers ashe and Davida make their rounds throughoutthe hospital.

“Oftentimes, they get this huge smile ontheir faces when they see us coming,” Davidasays. “And how could they not when they seethis tiny dog with big ears heading their way.

Next thing you know, they’re down on thefloor playing with him or he’s sitting on theirlap and we’re all smiling and laughing andhaving a good time.”

Davida remembers one particular morningwhen Rico turned a patient’s tears to laugh-ter. The patient was receiving an infusion ofchemotherapy and having a particularly diffi-cult day.

“She was all alone and very upset. Rico andI came by and asked if she would like a visitand she said yes. She explained that she hada dog at home that she hadn’t seen in awhilebecause she had been in the hospital. Thenext thing I knew, Rico was curled up in herlap and fell sound asleep. She just sat therepetting him and a few minutes later, she wasasleep too. To know we were able to help hergo from being so upset to being able to relaxenough to fall asleep, that made my day. Allshe needed was a little love. When we sawher a few weeks later, she told us that shewas having the worst day ever that day andthat we had saved her. That really warms myheart.”

For Davida, her weekly visits with Rico toCTCA are something she eagerly looks for-ward to. However, she wasn’t always so sureabout volunteering at a cancer hospital.

“I was pretty nervous about it, about beingaround people who were sick. What I foundwas much the opposite. From the first time Icame through the doors, everyone at CTCAwas so positive and welcoming that thoseworries passed very quickly,” she explains.

Davida says that patients often thank herfor bringing Rico in to visit with them. “But Ibelieve it’s the other way around. I’m sothankful they let me volunteer at CTCA withRico,” she adds. “I feel like I get to be a partof something special when I’m there volun-teering.”

Finding The Time Goodyear resident ScottWellman is a full-time recruiter for ReMaxand has a very active 11-year old son. Formost, that would be enough to fill the hoursbut somehow he and his wife, Shannon, findthe time to volunteer between 20 and 30hours each month at CTCA. For this philan-thropic couple, it’s the sense of personal sat-isfaction that keeps them coming back formore.

“At the end of the day, knowing Ihelped one person and made their

day better, maybe made them laugha little bit, that’s all I need,”

“I just can’t wait to come back anddo it all again the next time.”

Scott Wellman meets with Jennifer Kehren, H.O.P.E. Team Volunteer Coordinator, to discuss an upcoming volunteer event.

Davida says it's Rico's oversized ears that make him so irresistible and his warm heart that helps to soothe

patients going through cancer treatment.

VOLUNTEERS GIVE H.O.P.E. TO CANCER PATIENTSBy Betsy Rice


Scott was one of the first to volunteer atCTCA, coming on board even before the facil-ity opened its doors in 2008. His initial rolewas to develop a community book drive to fillup the hospital’s library. Upon successfulcompletion of the drive, Scott was tapped tojoin the inaugural board of directors for theH.O.P.E. Team, assisting with developing thenon-profit organization from the ground up.He’s witnessed firsthand as the team hasgrown from just a handful of volunteers tomore than 180 today.

“It’s amazing how much the program hasgrown. I believe one of the reasons is thenon-traditional role of a volunteer on theH.O.P.E. Team. It’s so much more than justvolunteering and that attracts top-notch tal-ent.”

For example, Scott and Shannon often vol-unteer outside the hospital walls, attendingcommunity events such as Spring Traininggames, Susan G. Komen Race for the Cureand American Cancer Society Relay for Life,where they raise awareness about theunique, integrative cancer treatment modelprovided at CTCA. The couple has even beenselected to travel to Los Angeles in May, allexpenses paid, to volunteer at the RevlonRun/Walk where they will work at the CTCAbooth, talking to attendees and passing outinformation about the hospital.

While the H.O.P.E. Team has grown signifi-cantly, Scott, who now serves as Vice Presi-dent of the Board, says there are still plentyof opportunities for community members tovolunteer at the hospital.

“We need energetic volunteers. And people

need to know they don’t have to be in the hos-

pital 20 hours a week to volunteer. Whatever

time they have to give, we can use it. Every-

one has a different type of skill set and we

need every skill set to share with our pa-

tients,” Scott says. “Between my family and

my job, I’m as busy as anyone out there, but

when you find an opportunity to be a part of

something bigger than yourself, to truly know

you are helping others, you find the time to

do it. What you find volunteering at CTCA is

that ultimately, you get more out of being

here than you give.”

THEY MAKE MY DAY“When you’ve had an incident in your life

where someone very close to you goesthrough cancer, it makes you want to giveback in any way you can,” explains CarolFortier of her choice to join the H.O.P.E. Teamat CTCA. That special someone is her hus-band, Raoul Fortier, who is in remission fromcancer and also volunteers at the hospital.

“What I’ve found is that I’m the one who isreceiving,” Carol says of her volunteer expe-rience. “Being here makes my day. The pa-tients make me feel so good. They inspire meand many have become an extended family.We share lots of hugs and laughter.”

Carol originally started as a volunteer inthe hospital’s clinic area two years ago. In herrole, she would welcome patients, take themback to their exam room and ask them ifthere was anything they needed to be morecomfortable. Recently, she moved upstairs tothe chemotherapy infusion area, where sheis leading a team of nine volunteers whomeet and greet patients, visit with them whilethey receive chemotherapy, and ensure alltheir needs are being met.

“Our primary role is to make the patientsas comfortable as possible,” Carol says.“They are under a lot of stress and we try totake their minds off of that. We get themwarm blankets, water, order them lunch,whatever they need. And lots of times we justend up visiting with the patients and thatturns into laughter and hugs.”

It’s those times, Carol says, that make vol-unteering so worthwhile. Carol hopes morepeople will take the time to volunteer at thehospital through the H.O.P.E. Team.

“If someone wants to find a place that willmake their day, this is the place,” Carol ex-plains. “Being with the patients is so inspira-tional. They think we are there helping them,but really, they are helping us to be inspired,to live better lives, and to focus on the posi-tive. They make my day every day that I amhere.”

LIVELIFE

ARE YOU READY TO PROVIDE H.O.P.E.?Since its incorporation in May of 2009, the

H.O.P.E. Team, with more than 180 mem-bers, has volunteered in excess of 16,000hours. From working at the hospital’sconcierge desk to delivering mail, visitingwith patients to leading special activitiessuch as arts and crafts and game time, thesecommunity members are an integral compo-nent of the care team that has made CTCAthe premier center of healing and hope forcancer patients.

Community groups can support cancer pa-tients and their families by providing in-kinddonations of items from the H.O.P.E. Team’sWish List. These items are used to providespecial activities, guest outings, or comfortsessions for those treating at the facility. Ex-amples of H.O.P.E. Team Wish List items in-clude gift cards to local restaurants, craftand scrapbooking supplies, games and puz-zles in good condition, as well as passes toarea entertainment venues such as movietheatres, zoos and museums.

With several new initiatives in place, in-cluding a comprehensive community out-reach program, the H.O.P.E. Team iscurrently seeking volunteers. Anyone 18years of age or older with a desire to be partof a team that truly makes a difference in thelives of cancer patients is encouraged toapply. Volunteers must complete an applica-tion process that includes a backgroundcheck, TB screening and medical release.

Carol Fortier with Judy Wilson. After delivering a healthysnack to a patient receiving chemotherapy, Carol Fortierasks if there's anything else she can do to make her visit atCTCA more comfortable.

To learn more about the Wish List, or to become a member of the H.O.P.E. Team, contact Jennifer Kehren at 623-207-3545,email [email protected] or visit hopeteamaz.org.

To learn more about Cancer Treatment Centersof America, visit cancercenter.com or call 1-888-214-9488.


How many times in your life have you stopped, looked

at the life choices you were making and thought, “I

need to do better.” Maybe you thought you should

change your diet, exercise more, stop smoking, or be

more careful about blood pressure or cholesterol.

You had the best intentions, but never quite carried through with your

plan. Maybe you weren’t even sure how to get started with a plan. I

am here to let you know that a plan to help has been created and is

easy to follow.

In January 2010, for the first time, the American Heart Association

has defined "ideal cardiovascular health," and identified seven health

factors and lifestyle behaviors that support heart health. We call these

“Life’s Simple Seven.” Improvements in these seven areas can greatly

impact your quality of life and life span.

These measures have one unique thing in common: any person can

make these changes, the steps are not expensive to take and even

modest improvements to your health will make a big difference. Start

with one or two. This simple, seven step list has been developed to

deliver on the hope we all have--to live a long, productive healthy life

by helping people identify and adopt healthier lifestyle choices. Not

only that, but they’ve developed a new online assessment-My Life

Check—that outlines the seven goals for ideal health, shows you

where you are on the path and where you need to improve, and offers

simple action steps you can take to help live a long, productive, and

healthy life. www.mylifecheck.heart.org

THE SIMPLE 7 ARE:1. Don’t smoke

2. Control Cholesterol

3. Manage Blood Pressure

4. Reduce Blood Sugar

5. Get Active

6. Eat Better

7. Lose Weight

Over the next 7 months I will be outlining each of the Simple 7 fac-

tors on how it affects heart disease and how to control or prevent the

above seven from increasing your risk of heart disease.

Many may not realize that Heart Disease is the #1 cause of death

and is highly preventable. The American Heart Association has made

a health impact goal: to improve the cardiovascular health of all

Americans by 20 percent while reducing deaths from cardiovascular

diseases and stroke by 20 percent. How is the American Heart Asso-

ciation going to achieve this, by educating the public through advocacy

and awareness about Life’s Simple Seven. I look forward over the next

year to help you live a heart healthy lifestyle and reduce your risk of

heart disease.

Jennifer is the current Mrs. Arizona International 2011, spokesper-

son/advocate/volunteer for the American Heart Association.

She can be reached at [email protected].

By Jennifer Olson

SIMPLY SEVEN


This is accomplished during a 24 academic day period. During this time, students are tasked to conduct a community project. ALS Class

11-4 chose to provide support the 3rd annual Integrated Medical Services (IMS) Marathon. IMS Marahon representative, Mr. Stan Jones is

shown here presenting the Class Commander, SSgt Kelly Oleske with a letter of appreciation for their support for this year’s marathon. The

IMS Arizona Marathon donations this year will exceed 30,000 dollars!

The John J. Rhodes Airman Leadership School’s (ALS) mission is to providea dedicated team of professionals, educating tomorrow's

leaders today through a comprehensive educational study on leadership,communicative skills, and the profession of arms by delivering 192 hours

of curriculum utilizing various instruction methods.

IMS DONATES TO JOHN J. RHODES AIRMAN LEADERSHIP SCHOOL (ALS)


F o l l o w t h e c o n t e s t a n t s a s t h e y s h e d p o u n d s a n d i n c h e sB I G G E S T L O S E R

Audition and follow the WVBL at: westvalleymagazine.com

Two SuperiorCourt employeesare serious aboutmaking a lifestylechange through

their own version of theBiggest Loser.

In January, Alyson French, who works for family courtadministration, and Sally Hawley, judicial assistant toJudge Scott McCoy, enrolled in a program called WestValley’s Biggest Loser created by Professional trainerStephanie Fogelson that combines exercise, propernutrition and counseling.

For French, her motivation was health.

“As I was getting older, I had concerns about dying and beingaround my family. When I started the program, I weighed 324pounds, now I am down to 297 pounds,” French said. “I wantto be a healthy, wife, mother and friend. I’m embracingweight loss and a new healthy outlook.”

Hawley and French are not only losing weight, they are enjoy-ing the program.

“It’s fun, intense, cardio and strength training in a team envi-ronment where all the participants support each other,”Hawley said. “I’ve also lost one dress size and my spirits arebetter, and my nutrition has improved tremendously.”

westvalleymagazine.com • May • June 2011 | 41Audition and follow the WVBL at: westvalleymagazine.com

According to Hawley, the group meetsMonday through Thursday in the WestValle and start out with a ½ mile warm up,walking or running. After the warm up,they break off into smaller groups for ahighly-specialized strength training regi-men.

Hawley said.

Both women are encouraged by the re-sults and have every intention of complet-ing the 12-week program.

Recently, they completed the 5k race.French still can’t believe she finished therace.

“When I started the program I was seden-tary. I had a hard time walking to Changeof Venue. I couldn’t even walk around thebuilding. I had to stop several times and itsucked,” French said.

“After I finish the program, I plan on main-taining a healthy, active lifestyle and be aninspiration to others who are trying toreach their fitness goals,” French said.

Both women completed the program on4/15/2011 with a celebration and an-nouncement of the winner, Sally Hawleyfor the “Fit to Fabulous” and George Mar-tinez “The West Valley’s Biggest Loser”!Together the group lost close to 200pounds, 180 inches and over 64% BodyFat!

Alyson; 7.3% body weight loss, 11 inches, 27 pounds, 6.4% body fat, Sally; 1.4% body weight loss, 5 inches, 6.4 pounds, 7.9% body fat


BACKYARD TRANSFORMATIONSMAKE ENTERTAINING A Splash

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Before After

Before After

SPRING BRINGS BABY ANIMAL BOOM ATWILDLIFE WORLD ZOO & AQUARIUMBy Grey Stafford


Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium is located at 16501 W. Northern Ave., Litchfield Park, AZ. We’re open seven days a week, 365 days a year, including New Years. Zoo exhibits are open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last zoo admission is at 5:00 p.m.) Aquarium exhibits are open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Daytime admission includes access to the zoo and aquarium. Special reduced evening admission to Aquarium-Only is available after 5:00 p.m.For more info: (623) 935-WILD (9453) or visit www.WildlifeWorld.com.

When you are home to Arizona’s largest collectionof exotic species, spring is synonymous with babyanimals. This season is no exception at WildlifeWorld Zoo & Aquarium with the recent notablebirths of a zebra, warthogs, patas monkeys, ring-tailed lemurs, scimitar horned oryx and many

more. Visitors will see new arrivals at almost every turn throughoutthe 66-acre zoo and aquarium grounds as well as inside the ever-pop-ular baby Animal Nursery building.

Also on display is an 8-week old baby male lion. So far “Sampson”seems to have settled into his temporary home located at the babyAnimal Nursery. Like other large cat species, lion cubs tend to growin size quickly as they transition from an entirely milk diet to one withmeat mixed in! In the coming months, the young male lion will bemoved to a large outdoor display and eventually, zoo managers hope

to introduce him to Wildlife World’s year old lioness, “Delilah.”

The nursery has several rooms with large glass panels giving visitors viewing access to baby animals, at a much earlier age thanever before, as they eat, sleep and play. Wildlife World’s speciallytrained keepers have helped raise dozens of different species of wildand endangered animals over the past quarter century. By the indoorexhibit’s very nature, the young animals on display change from weekto week, month to month, and season to season.

Finally, time grows short to see the pair of mountain lion cubs ontemporary display at the Nursery. In just a few weeks, they will betraveling to their permanent home at a zoo in the Midwest. So visitorswanting to see one of Arizona’s top predators need to visit WildlifeWorld Zoo & Aquarium today!


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Dr. Mireya Mayor

When you think about life,

most monumental memo-

ries when growing up such

as losing your first tooth, your first day of

Kindergarten, playing little league and

your senior prom all have their places in a

young person’s journey. There is one mo-

ment that parent and student share in

life’s winding road that has significance for

both and that event is high school gradu-

ation.

My last graduation as a teacher at Desert

Edge high school came last year as the

class of 2010 fixed their gowns and posed

for pictures at Goodyear Ballpark. Most

faculty had jobs such as leading the lines

of graduates onto the field, while checking

for graduation contraband such as cell

phones, cameras, writing on hats, and

clothing under gowns in case a graduate

wanted to make a lasting impression on

their class. As for me, I was to be one of

the two readers of graduate names as se-

lected by the senior class. I walked around

the graduates saying my goodbyes and

offering my words of wisdom by saying

things like, “watch your back, I can legally

come after you now!” I watched as girls

fixed their makeup after taking pictures

with their closest friends. The lines began

to form and the graduates were given their

final instructions and it was about that

time when I saw Sal Medina.

The march had begun when I made it to

Sal and I caught his eye. Sal was a big

bulky Hispanic student who had played

football and wrestled (along with a stint as

an actor on the Desert Edge stage, nobody

would have made fun of Sal Medina). When

I got to Sal he looked at me and said in a

raspy accented voice, SPONSORED BY:

By Cory Beal,

Southwest Valley Area Director for Young Life

“Mr. Beal I want to say thank you for all

you’ve done for me and believing in me.

You were a good teacher, so..you

know…thank you.” I extended my hand and

wanted to tell him how proud I was that he

was wearing that robe and how he didn’t

give up despite his grades and early entry

into high school. However, I didn’t get the

chance to tell Sal this as he proceeded to

take my hand and yank me toward him into

a giant bear hug. What the excited and

proud young man failed to understand or

notice was that in the process of showering

me with admiration and appreciation he

had also pulled my shoulder out of its

socket and my arm hung dislocated as the

graduates walked onto the field.

I immediately told the students what

happened to which they replied, “Oh Beal

you will do anything for a laugh.” It must

have been the tears welling up in the cor-

ner of my eyes that proved how dire the sit-

uation was. Someone else led the

congregation in the pledge of allegiance, I

can’t tell you who because our schools

athletic trainer was resetting my shoulder

in the Indians dugout so I could go on to

read the names in mere moments.

Today it makes for a good story and one

that will never allow me to forget my last

graduation as a teacher. So I think forward

to this class and hope that parent and stu-

dent alike will embrace together what the

night means. For the student, there is a

sense of foreboding fear and excitement.

For those students who will be going off to

college, there is a summer of rest and ad-

venture before taking off into the unknown

realm of adulthood. These students may

test the boundaries of the parent by asking

to go on road trips to California, to go

camping in the middle of nowhere, any-

thing that will allow them to cap off the last

four years of required education.

For the student who may not be going to

college immediately, there may be signs of

failure or relief that they get a break from

school for a while. These students proba-

bly have gone through the emotional

wringer wondering if they would even put

on the cap and gown on graduation night.

The satisfaction of a job well done or in

some cases “I got away with it and I’m still

graduating,” will be on their minds and I

would encourage you to relish in that with

them. These students will have many hard

choices coming at them on the horizon of

the their adult lives. Should they go to

community college, should they just get a

job, should they find a trade school, and

many more are questions for a later time.

Parents, can I encourage you to cele-

brate with your student on their graduation

night? I’m not just talking about balloons

and bears, family members over at the

house for cake and punch, and maybe a

monetary gift. I’m talking about celebrat-

ing their rite of passage to a grueling world

of reality. Parental instinct will kick in and

lead you to say no to that trip to California,

or no to that after graduation party, or no

to the idea of getting a job instead of en-

rolling in school. Can I just suggest that re-

ality will always play out in the life of your

graduate?

I am in contact with many of my previous

graduates. Some have thrived after high

school and are doing very well for them-

selves. Others took the long road and saw

how pivotal a degree or certificate was.

They are now on the road to their post-sec-

ondary graduation ceremony. Then there

are those who got a job and have been

working dead end job to dead end job, ei-

ther still fighting about living at home with

their parents or making big time mistakes

and life altering choices. Some have little

ones that their choices are affecting as

well. Many of these students made these

choices in spite of their parents.

I’m not asking you to give up on your

graduate or not want what’s best for them,

but have you heard the old idiom, “you can

attract more flies with honey than with

vinegar?” Trust me, your student is going

to come face to face with reality soon

enough when they realize they can’t get a

real high paying job without a degree.

Allow graduation to be a celebration of not

just their past but your trust in their future

as well. Students are much more likely to

respond to parents advice if they see you

as an advocate and not an obstacle. I chal-

lenge you parents to sit down with your

graduate and be part of the process while

practicing the art of letting go. Give your

graduate some money for Disneyland and

maybe even pay for the hotel, while ex-

plaining to them how this transition is af-

fecting you too. If a student knows and

believes that you trust them, believe in

them, and are rooting for them, their de-

sire is going to be more like yours and less

about getting away from you.

As father of a 6 and 4 year old, I hope I

can put my money where my mouth is and

abide by the same thing I’m asking of you.

Equip your graduate for the world outside

the high school’s doors. Don’t shelter them

from it. As a high school graduate with a

2.17 GPA, I moved to California a year after

graduating. I enrolled in Community Col-

lege, taking 5 math courses to help pre-

pare me to pass simple college algebra. I

graduated six years later, then went on to

become a high school teacher. I can tell

you there is hope and that I never ques-

tioned my parent’s love or belief in me.

Good luck to all of you 2011 graduates and

the parents who made it there with you!

Young Life is meeting in the cafeteria at

Desert Edge High School on Monday nights

at 7:30 starting January 24th. High School

students from all schools are welcome and

as many as 8 West Valley Schools are rep-

resented every Monday night. If you would

like more information or you or your busi-

ness would like to support Young Life fi-

nancially, you can reach Cory Beal at

[email protected]



Candace Wiest, President andCEO of West Valley NationalBank announced that theBank has received approvalfrom the Office of the Comp-troller of the Currency to

open a full service branch at 5635 NorthScottsdale Road, Suite 150, Scottsdale.

“We are delighted to announce our new of-fice will open by May 31st. Strategically thislocation is central to our niche markets in themedical and dental industries. This locationincreases our visibility and will allow us to bemore geographically responsive to our exist-ing client base. Currently approximately 50%of our borrowers are located on the east side.Our goal is to significantly expand our lend-ing activities and we have been fortunate torecruit Gary Hickel as the East Valley Market

President and Ward Hickey asour SBA specialist. As one of thefew locally owned banks in theValley with strong capital, webelieve this move will accelerateour growth plans.

We have discussed rebrandingas part of this strategy but havenot made any formal decisionsat this time. For us, this is abusiness built on personal rela-tionships with our clients, oneclient at a time. With the lack ofcapital in Arizona we believe borrowers justwant to know we will be responsive to theirneeds and have the capital to get the jobdone. Most appear to be indifferent as to thename of the Bank.” said Wiest.

West Valley National Bank is the only lo-cally owned bank west of 1-17 and special-izes in serving the medical, dental and smallbusinesses of the metro Phoenix area. TheBank has branches in Avondale and Buckeyewith the newest office opening by May 31.

WEST VALLEY NATIONAL BANK

ANNOUNCES OPENINGOF SCOTTSDALE BRANCH


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G R E E N L I V I N G M u s t - r e a d n e w s a n d a d v i c e o n p r o t e c t i n g o u r p l a n e t

THE REFORMEDPOLLUTER

DRU BACON

We're becoming increasingly aware of the impact thatour actions have on the environment and our qualityof life, but sadly while many of our homes and build-ings are being built and modernized to be greener,many of our children's schools continue to waste

energy and contain materials that are toxic to kids health. In fact mostschools spend more on electricity bills than on books and comput-ers.

Schools are beginning to join the charge to use less and be moreefficient. But did you know that schools that make strides to becomemore environmentally friendly are often also providing better learningenvironments for students?

While helping the environment is definitely a key motivator, greenimprovements can also improve student performance by creating ahealthier, more productive learning environment, providing hands-onlessons for students, and saving schools money that they can use onclassroom initiatives.

Pureology has teamed up with Global Green USA to create a "greenschool" makeover competition where schools can enter to help improve the lives of students while educating parents, teachers, students and the public about the importance of creating healthygreen classrooms. Pureology Serious Colour Care are the makers ofhair care products that are 100 percent Vegan and contain organic botanicals.

Here are a few examples of how a "green school" makeover canbenefit both the earth and students:

* Plant an organic, edible gardenEnvironmental benefit: By growing food on school grounds, a school

can order less food that needs to travel long distances, saving on en-ergy and food costs.

Learning benefit: Students get a hands-on biology lesson. Growinga garden could also encourage them to eat better, positively influenc-ing their physical and mental development.

* Start a recycling programEnvironmental benefit: Because hundreds of students and teachers

occupy a school throughout the day, a recycling program can greatlyreduce the amount of recyclable materials that would otherwise endup in a landfill. Schools could also take this a step further and insti-tute a composting program, which could also provide fertilizer for on-site gardens.

Learning benefit: Children can learn about what items can be recy-cled and take those lessons home to their families. Composting pro-vides a great platform for a science lesson.

* Use green design elementsEnvironmental benefit: Plain and simple, schools that use green

design techniques don't use nearly as much energy.

WHY SCHOOLS BENEFIT YOUR KIDS & THE ENVIRONMENT

GREEN


HEALTHY EATING

AIN’T EASY

Let’s say that you are the average American having a typicalbusy day and need to have a quick meal. What do you do?Most likely you go to a fast food drive through, get a quickburger and fries and load up on fat, carbs and calories.

Why do we not have fast food restaurants, which are both cheap andhealthy? Well, it’s complicated. Much has to do with our cultivatedpreference for burgers and fries over broccoli, but is also connectedto government policies. Current subsidies heavily favor corporate factory farms for corn and soybean and not vegetables. These subsidies make corn cheap. Corn is not a natural cow food,but cows have adapted to an “eat corn or die” policy being blissfullyunaware that they are going to end up in the burger grinder anyway.

Another thing about cows used to make those burgers is the use, orover use, of antibiotics. Eighty percent of the antibiotics used in theUS are given to farm animals. It’s not because the animals are sick.Antibiotics cause farm animals [cows, pigs and chickens] to growfaster. Faster growth means more profit. But what do these antibi-

otics mean for the busy burger buyer? Many studies are availabledealing with the impact on human health from eating meat from an-imals treated with antibiotics. Most of these studies conclude thatit’s a bad idea.

If you change that ground beef burger for a chicken sandwich, areyou any better off? Maybe not. In addition to their share of regular an-tibiotics, chickens may be given antibiotics containing arsenic! That sounds insane but is well documented as true. Some chickenproducers have abandoned the practice of using arsenic containingantibiotics but you still stand a chance of getting a dose of arsenicwith your chicken sandwich.

Problems with modern food supplies do not end with meat. If ourbusy fast food customer decides to have milk with that burger, thecow that graciously provided that milk may have been given bovinegrowth hormone to increase milk production. What are the consequences of consuming bovine growth

C A L E N D A R T h e w h o , w h a t , w h e r e a n d w h e n i n t h e W e s t V a l l e y


May 1 - June 1Phoenix Children's Chorus AuditionsBoys and girls in Grades 1-11 are in-vited to audition for the choir. Phoenix Center for the Arts1202 N. Third St., Phoenix, AZ 85004 602-534-3788

Mondays May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30Monday Night MelodiesEvery Monday night, a Free concertfeaturing three 20-minute sets. A vari-ety of music from Country and Blue-grass to Folk, Oldies, and Ethnic willentertain you.7:00 pm – 8:30 pmPeoria Main Library – Willow Room85th Avenue and Monroe, Peoria AZ623-773-7556

May 7“Just FORE Kids” 36th Charity Golf Tournament4-person Scramble Benefit Golf Tour-nament.Wigwam Red Golf Course300 Wigwam BoulevardLitchfield Park, AZ 85340Check in 6:15 am. Shotgun start at7:30 am. Call 623-935-9040 for details.

May 7Montessori in the Park Silent & Live AuctionSaturday 5 pm-10 pmGround Control (on the Northwest cor-ner of Litchfield and Indian School).Many great items are up for auction.Proceeds will benefit a local non-profitpre-school and elementary school.

General attendance - free, all are wel-come! Wine tasting tickets $10Questions/donations: 623-535-4863www.mipschool.org

Thursdays May 5, 12, 19, 26Westgate Bike NightsFans can check out this elaboratebiker and motorcycle display eachThursday evening at Westgate CityCenter. 6770 N. Sunrise Blvd., Glen-dale, AZ 85305. 623-772-4000

May 7, 14, 21, 28Farmers Market - Saturdays9:00 am to 1:00 pmEach Saturday, April through October,the front lawn turns into a market, offering fresh, organic produce.The Wigwam 300 Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 623-935-3811

Sunday, May 8Mother’s DayHonoring Mothers around the world.Wherever you are, take time to thankMom for her role in your life.

Sundays May 8, 15, 22, 29Family Fun Day1:00 pm – 5:00 pmPeoria City Main LibraryMonroe and 85th Avenue, Peoria AZ Looking for something fun to do as afamily on Sunday afternoons? Come

Through May 28, 2011“The Full Monty”Arizona Broadway Theatre7701 West Paradise Lane, Peoria AZArizona Broadway Theatre, the state'slargest producer of year-around profes-sional theatre, presents The Full Monty.This grin and bare-it-all musical, nomi-nated for nine Tony Awards, is based on

the international hit film. Jerry and his friends are discouraged, unemployedsteelworkers low on both cash and prospects and desperately in need of in-come. After seeing the enthusiasm for a touring company of male strippers,they decide to present a strip act at a local club. Join us in cheering them onas the guys go "all the way" to conquer their fears and take charge of theirlives. Escape into Arizona Broadway Theatre where the cocktails flow, thefood delights and award winning shows take the stage. 623-776-8400


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and play games like “Candyland”,“Uno”, “Checkers”, or “Sorry” in theYouth Services area. No registrationrequired. More info 623-773-7562.

May 10Trinity’s Learning Resource Center’sClass of 2011 - Life Skills EnrichmentGraduation/Benefit & Awards Banquet6:00 pm MTHosting Facilities & Partner Skyway Church of the West Valley14900 W. Van Buren StreetGoodyear, AZ. Catered by Golden Cor-ral, Drawings / Special Awards. Semi-formal Attire.

Through May 12Instrument Drive 2011Throughout the week, the public is in-vited to donate new or slightly used in-struments.Fire Station 171101 S. Fifth St. Avondale, AZ 85323

May 13Salon Glow Spa Happy HourFriday 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm4830 N Litchfield Rd., Stes 105-106Litchfield ParkCome join us for a night of wine,cheese, laughter, and pampering.Services starting at only $3. Style Con-sultations, Face Mapping, Hair Cuts,Styles, Bling Strings, Colored Exten-tions, Nail Polish, Brow Arch, TeethWhitening, Many More Service's.Come in relax, have some wine bringyour friends! RSVP if you would like toattend. 623-414-2528

May 15"Apple"-A tribute to the Beatles atthe Sun Bowl Sun Bowl (107th Ave South of Peoria)Sun City, AZ2011 Spring Show at the Sun Bowl(rain location - Sundial) 7:30 p.m. 623-972-6014 The legendary sounds of theFab Four are accurately recreated bythis very talented group.

May 17Trinity School Open HouseTuesday 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm830 E. Plaza Cir.,Litchfield Park, AZ85340 school.trinityLCS.orgpreschool thru 8th grade.623-935-4690 x 126

May 19Third Thursdays3rd Thursdays Important ConsumerUpdates ~ Presented by Adultcare As-sistance Homecare and Mutual ofOmaha Bank Partners in CommunityAwareness 8:30 – 9:30 am at the Mu-tual of Omaha Bank – Communityroom 19432 N R H Johnson Blvd SunCity West, AZ 85375 Important Con-sumer Updates - a new topic pre-sented monthly by a recognized expertin his or her field. Save the 3rd Thurs-day of every month, 8:30 – 9:30a April21, May 19, June 16, July 21, August18, Sept 15, Oct 20, Nov 17, Dec 15Continental breakfast will be servedCall for reservations: 623-977-2223 or email [email protected]

May 19 Mia Live9:00 pmClubhouse Grill14175 W Indian School Rd, Goodyear623-535-4857

May 20 - May 29"Spotlight on Broadway"The performance highlights excerptsof different Broadway shows. Spotlight Youth Theatre10620 N. 43rd Ave., Glendale, AZ 85306 623-521-8093

May 21Be Green & Be Healthy FairPostponed from April 9Saturday 8:00 am – 2:00 pmLearn how you can make surprisesustainable and conserve precious re-sources, and get healthy. There will beplenty of information and on-site ac-tivities. Find our about the latest greenproducts and technologies designed toprotect natural resources and en-hance our quality of life.Surprise Stadium15960N. Bullard AvenueSurprise, AZ 85374623-222-2000

May 28Domestic Rabbit RescueSaturday Brambley Hedge Rabbit Res-cue hosts this pet adoption. The groupis a non-profit, domestic-rabbit res-cue group. Choice Pet Market, 20028N. 67th Ave., Glendale, AZ 85308 480-443-3990


D I N I N G T h e b e s t r e s t a u r a n t s i n t h e W e s t V a l l e y

We all look for that special gatheringplace that can transform from ca-sual lunch bistro to smokin’ fun

nightspot. They are few and far between,which makes this months review so very de-lightful to present. “taps” has the magic tohandle both. Owner, Dave Thor, has produceda winner.

Located in Litchfield Park, this casualneighborhood restaurant can deliver a familyfriendly lunch or dinner with a menu that cov-ers all of the bases. From tasty starters like,Pesto Chili Bread and Manhattan Bruschetta,to the delicious Turtle Cheesecake andCaramel Apple Pie, the menu has excellentdepth to cover the most discerning tastes.

Flatbread pizzas are baked to perfectionusing fresh ingredients prepared daily. Vege-tarian-minded diners can enjoy the GardenFresca or 6-Cheese Flatbread while meat-eating guests can choose from half a dozenalternatives, including the #1 best sellingSpinach, Bacon and Tomato Blanca Pizza.

All are served piping hot on 12 x 12 inch

wooden serving trays.

With warmer weather right around the cor-ner, the salad menu offers fresh, flavorfuland beautifully presented garden favorites.Take a mouth-watering vacation with theStrawberry/Walnut /Chicken Salad on a gen-erous bed of mixed greens and a side ofHoney/Poppy seed dressing. Another topseller is the Chicken Ranch House Saladserved with BBQ Ranch drizzle and crunchytortilla chips. Portions are generous andavailable in petite sizes for the lighter eatersin your party.

Burgers are always available on the “taps”menu. They are hefty, delicious and servedon Ciabatta rolls. The sandwich board hasbeen fine tuned to offer an assortment ofchoices. You will find yourself jumping backand forth over which one to pick. Our recom-mendation is to eat your way through themenu and decide for yourself, which is yourfavorite. You will not go wrong by startingwith the slow-roasted Spicy Brewed Beefwith sweet chili BBQ sauce or the Chicken &

Spinach Ciabatta with garlic aioli and bal-samic vinegar.

By far, the most popular menu item is thesignature “air-baked” wings offered in threestyles…. Beer, New York Hot and DesertAmber Chipotle BBQ. Available in one or twodozen portions, their wonderful flavor guar-antees nothing will be left on the bone atmeals end.

With a name like, “taps”, one would be in-clined to think this is simply a neighborhoodpub. Nothing could be further from the truth.This casual daytime lunch bistro clandes-tinely morphs through “Happy Hour” into athriving mecca of nightlife. Entertainment isprovided nightly. Live music is enjoyedWednesday and Friday evenings through themusical stylings of “Copper Skies”, a local,very talented band with a playlist as deep asthe Grand Canyon. DJ Karaoke is featuredThursday and Saturday nights and “LiveMusic Trivia” welcomes Monday evening vis-itors.

The feeling one gets as they enter “taps” is

b y B o b P u r t e l l


friendly and inviting. The décor is comfortableand the knowledgeable service staff is readyand able to provide all your needs in a promptand courteous fashion. You will feel as if youhave been there before even as a first-timeguest.

3 large-screen wall-mounted TV’s playcontinuous sports coverage and the musicvolume is perfectly matched for a pleasantlevel of conversation. Space, easily seats 50inside and for those who wish to take in thecool evening air and star-filled night sky,there are ample accommodations for patio.

The comprehensive wine list contains over30 varieties of reds and whites from aroundthe world. Most are available by the glass.Some of the more notable wines include

Justin Cabernet, Kim Crawford SauvignonBlanc and Row 11 Pinot Noir.

28 beers are in stock including 12 on tap.Local breweries are showcased as well asnational and international brews. 90 Shilling,Hoegaarden, Thunder Canyon, Blue MoonBelgian White and San Tan just to name afew.

Service is paramount to the success of anybusiness. Molly, Amber, KB, Nicole andCarmela are friendly, prompt and at yourservice. Please let them know if you have anyspecial needs or requests.

Vincent leads the culinary team whichtakes great pride in presenting their well de-signed menu items. Portions are generousand well priced. Orders “To Go” are always

welcome by calling (623) 935-2037.

The work of local photographer’s andartist’s are displayed throughout the bistroand are available for purchase.

Ample parking is available within minutesof the restaurant.

For a family lunch/dinner or an excitingnight out with friends, “taps” provides theperfect environment to enjoy food, friendsand fun. Service, location, value and qualityof experience give this Litchfield gem 4-stars ****

Visit “taps” at WWW.TAPSBARS.COM orcall (623) 935-2037 for questions and hoursof operation.

westvalleymagazine.com • April • May 2011 | 65

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CINCO DE MAYOTHURSDAY, MAY 5TH

MARIACHI BAND 2-4PM

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SUDOKU

CROSSWORDAcross1. Glances over quickly6. Vipers10. An African parrot14. A divided Asian peninsula15. An Anglo-Saxon minstrel16. Fertilizer ingredient17. Model of excellence18. A period of discountedprices19. Jewels20. Reprehensible22. Gawk23. No24. Top lines of mountains26. A type of beetle30. Show someone to theirseats32. Wild African sheep33. Toadfish35. Bowel cleansing39. Strings41. Doctrine42. Summoned sufficientcourage43. Iberian country44. Scallion46. Not new47. Shoreline49. Groups of 851. Bushes54. Clever55. Skin an orange56. In the Bible, New and Old63. As well64. Prefix indicating outer65. Swelling66. Place67. Mother of Zeus (Greekmythology)68. Alewife fish69. Parcels of land70. Zero71. Gangly

DOWN1. Slip2. Cypher3. God of war (Greek mythol-ogy)4. A low tide5. A salt marsh6. Analyze chemical substances7. Forms on a wound8. A survey of public opinion9. A lecture10. An avatar of Vishnu11. Regions12. Neat and tidy13. Fertile areas in deserts21. Taxis25. Woody perennial grasses26. Bags27. Harvest28. Nimbus29. Absurd30. Cause to overturn31. A few34. Is unwell36. Gaelic37. Encounter38. Augments40. Prig45. A Chadic language48. To the rear50. A loud crashing musical in-strument51. A chip or fragment52. Prefix indicating the Sun53. Adjust again54. Ermine57. Reflected sound58. Ragout59. Singer Fitzgerald60. Midday61. Chore62. Remain

HOW TO PLAY SUDOKU?Sudoku requires no calcu-lation or arithmetic skills.It is essentially a game ofplacing numbers insquares, using very simplerules of logic and deduc-tion. It can be played bychildren and adults andthe rules are simple tolearn.

SUDOKU OBJECTIVEThe objective of the gameis to fill all the blanksquares in a game withthe correct numbers.There are three very sim-ple constraints to follow.In a 9x9 square Sudokugame:

* Every row of 9 numbersmust include all digits 1through 9 in * Every column of 9 num-bers must include all dig-its 1 through 9 in anyorder* Every 3 by 3 subsectionof the 9x9 square must in-clude all digits 1 through9.

LAST MONTH’S SOLUTIONS

P U Z Z L E S E x e r c i s e y o u r m i n d a n d g e t l o s t i n a p u z z l e

west valley magazine may 2011

Documents

west valley national

valley magazinetm

ims arizona marathon

healthy life

issue 6contents408

high school students

eating habits

better health