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Valley enthusiasts can expect a good 2020 wildflower season Posted Friday, February 28, 2020 12:30 pm By Kelly O'Sullivan, Independent Newsmedia

LISA MANIFOLD/SPECIAL TO INDEPENDENT NEWSMEDIA Bartlett Lake in the Tonto National Forest northeast of Phoenix is a popular spot for wildflower enthusiasts. Here, purple lupine and chia mingle with yellow and pink poppies. Shirley Ramaley is wild about wildflowers. Every spring, the West Valley retiree packs up her camera and her hiking gear, and hits trails across the greater Phoenix area in search of the colorful blooms that herald the desert’s transition from winter to summer. “I love the outdoors,” Ms. Ramaley said. “I have a B.S. in biology, and anything having to do with nature is what I enjoy. Wildflowers are beautiful and I prefer painting them, in watercolor, over any other subject.” Ms. Ramaley, who has had numerous nature photographs published in children’s magazines over the years, said she goes in search of her colorful subjects about twice a week during wildflower

season in the Sonoran Desert, which kicks off in February and typically peaks in mid- to late March. Her favorite blooms? Poppies and owl’s clover. Her favorite places to see wildflowers? White Tank Mountains Regional Park, Lake Pleasant Regional Park and Bartlett Lake in the Tonto National Forest. “I used to go to Peridot Mesa (in San Carlos), but gave up due to all the broken bottles in the poppy fields,” Ms. Ramaley said. Lisa Manifold, an award-winning nature photographer who relocated to the East Valley from Southern California in 2018 to be near her first love, the Salt River horses, also spends much of the spring season scouring the landscape for wildflower photo ops. “Spring, winter’s demise, colors the land east of Phoenix with vibrant blues, purples, yellows, oranges and pinks,” she said. “Pink mallow, pink-hued poppies, vibrant blue lupines, golden brittle bush and so much more!” Her favorite blooms? Prickly poppy. Her favorite places to search for wildflowers? The Superstition Mountains, the road to Tortilla Flats (Canyon Lake), Desert Botanical Garden, Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Usery Mountain Regional Park, Gilbert Riparian Preserve, Tonto National Forest; Peralta Trail in Gold Canyon, Roosevelt Lake and Bartlett Lake. Predicting the season Some years, like the “super blooms” of 2017 and 2019, hillsides and fields across the desert are covered in wildflowers as far as the eye can see. Other years, it’s more sparse, a pop of purple and orange here, a streak of pink or yellow there.

Angelica Elliott, Desert Botanical Garden’s assistant director of public horticulture, said two factors, rainfall and soil temperatures, typically determine what kind of wildflower season an area will experience. For a spectacular year, the desert needs about an inch of rain per month from October to January or February, she said. “We had a decent amount of rainfall starting in November,” Ms. Elliott said, noting that while the 2020 wildflower season won’t likely feature the thick carpets of blooms that highlighted last year’s season, she expects a good showing around the valley. “We’ll probably have ‘throw rugs,’ those little pockets of wildflowers,” she said. The season also should feature showings by blooms like the ajo lily, that don’t always make an appearance each year. Also known as the desert lily, the ajo lily features tall stalks with large, elegant white blooms similar to Easter lilies. Ajo lilies are primarily found in sand dunes and sandy washes in Arizona and Southern California, including the White Tank Mountains in the West Valley. Ms. Elliott said enthusiasts also should be on the lookout for two other blooms that don’t make regular annual appearances: ghost flowers and orobanche. Ghost flowers, so-called for their translucent, cream-colored blooms dotted with burgundy, can be found in and around washes and on rocky slopes below 2,500 feet. Orobanche, a parisitic plant also known as desert broomrape, looks like a mushroom before flowering dark purple, Ms. Elliott said. It can be found in sandy flats throughout the state.

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How long will they stay? The length of this year’s wildflower season will depend on whether it rains in March, and how quickly daytime temperatures hit and stay in the high 70s to 80s. “If it stays relatively cool, that will extend the season,” Ms. Elliott said. Higher temperatures trigger the plants to stop flowering and produce seeds to ensure the next generation of blooms. Regardless of the quantity of blooms and the length of the season, Ms. Elliott encourages people to take advantage of the nice weather to get out and explore during wildflower season. “Just go out into our Sonoran Desert,” she said. “We have beautiful vistas, beautiful wildlife and beautiful plants.” WHERE TO FIND WILDFLOWERS There are several ways to find out where to see and photograph wildflowers around the valley and beyond: • National, state and regional park

websites list what’s blooming in their parks, as well as ranger-led hikes and programs that may interest visitors. For national parks, monuments and preserves in Arizona, visit nps.gov/state/az and nps.gov/subjects/wildflowers. State parks, visit azstateparks.com/wildflowers, and regional parks around the valley, visit maricopacountyparks.net and search wildflowers.

• DesertUSA.com features wildflower reports for the Arizona and California deserts, as well as northern California, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. The website shares photographs provided by users, and its wildflower field guide features

photos of wildflowers categorized by color to help users identify blooms they see.

• Visit Phoenix, visitphoenix.com/blog/post/see-wildflowers-phoenix, lists multiple viewing options.

• Facebook groups like Arizona Wildflowers & Cacti, Arizona Wildflower and Cactus Blossom Alert, as well as numerous photographers’ groups and pages feature photos by wildflower enthusiasts who are often happy to share where they saw blooms.

What to know before you go • Trekking through the desert in

search of wildflowers is fun, but there are some things to know before you go in terms of etiquette and safety:

• Leave no trace: Stay on designated trails, and don’t pick or trample the flowers. If you must pose for a portrait of yourself with the blooms, find a bare spot behind or in front of the flowers of your choice, and settle there; don’t step, kneel or lay down except on bare ground.

• Wear proper attire: Check weather reports and dress accordingly. Wear layers, a hat, sunglasses, good socks and sturdy shoes with soles designed for diverse terrain.

• Safety first: Stick to established trails unless you’re familiar with the area you’re exploring. Let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to return home. Make sure your cell phone battery is fully charged, and bring plenty of water and snacks.

• Respect wildlife: Keep an eye out for critters; wildlife, including venomous snakes, often hide in vegetation and may bite if frightened. If you or someone in your party is bitten, call 9-1-1 immediately and keep

the victim calm until help arrives.

• Step aside: People on bicycles and horseback have right-of-way over people on foot.

McDowell Mountain park is pretty busy. This scenic trail lets you get away from the crowd McDowell Mountain hike: Try this less used trail in the busy park The Lousley Hill Trail makes a moderate climb with great views all around. Mare Czinar, Special for The RepublicPublished 7:00 a.m. MT Feb. 27, 2020 | Updated 12:48 p.m. MT Feb. 27, 2020

Corrections & Clarifications: A previous version of this story gave an incorrect time frame for a lightning-caused fire at the park. The fire occurred 24 years ago. Finding a quiet place in McDowell Mountain Regional Park isn’t always easy. With its long, flowing trails, the 21,099-acre Maricopa County park near Fountain Hills is popular with mountain bikers, hikers and equestrians. Outfitted with campsites, picnic areas, playgrounds and family-friendly amenities and events, the park is a very busy place in Arizona’s cooler months. Still, solitude can be found if you know where to look.

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The 1.2-mile Lousley Hill Trail is an under-the-radar gem that’s perfect for escaping the crowds. The quiet trail offers easy access, a mild climb and scenic vistas of the Verde River valley, McDowell Mountains and distant wilderness peaks. From the trailhead, a short access path crosses a sandy wash shaded by mesquite trees to connect with the loop portion of the trail. Either leg of the loop works for the climbing part, although the left leg is less steep and more gradual than the right. The trail hugs the exposed, brittlebush-covered slopes of a peak on the northern nub of the Lousley Hills, a north-south running ridge at the park’s east border. The path is well maintained but a little rocky. There are rest areas with benches on both legs of the loop to take a break if needed.

A rock stack marks the summit of Lousley Hill in McDowell Mountain Regional Park. (Photo: Mare Czinar/Special for The Republic) A lightning-caused fire in 1996 destroyed much of the park’s vegetation. Except for a few telltale black scars on saguaros, disintegrating tree skeletons and sparse tree cover, you’d never know that 24 years ago, the area looked like an ashen moonscape. Since then, the scorched earth has given way to a resurgence of desert shrubs, trees and wildflowers. This is an especially pretty hike in spring when Mexican gold poppies color the foothills and surrounding plains. Scattered stands of paloverde

trees and saguaro cactus provide spots of shade throughout the otherwise open-to-the-sky hike. A series of long, lazy switchbacks lands hikers on the summit. A gigantic rock cairn sits at the top of the sunny vantage point with 360-degree views. Look for the distinctive knob of Red Mountain rising above emerald flood plains at the convergence of the Salt and Verde rivers and the hazy silhouettes of the Sierra Ancha mountain range. The summit has plenty of nice spots to take a break or hang out to enjoy the solitude of an isolated desert bluff. If you’re up for more following this mini mountain assault, consult the park map to build a longer loop or out-and-back hike. Lousely Hill Trail Length: 1.2-mile loop. Rating: Moderate. Elevation: 1,711-2,036 feet. Admission: $7 per vehicle. Details: maricopacountyparks.net. Read more of Mare Czinar's hikes at arizonahiking.blogspot.com

White Tank Mountain Regional Park annual Arts and Crafts Fair Emma Richburg, West Valley View Staff Feb 27, 2020

Friends of White Tank Park co-sponsor the annual Arts and Crafts Fair this weekend at the scenic park. Photo courtesy Maricopa County Parks White Tank Mountain Regional Park in Waddell will be celebrating its 10th annual Arts and Crafts Fair this week. The juried fair will be held outdoors, 4 miles inside the White Tank Mountain Park, on the west side of the Phoenix metropolitan area. It will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29, and Sunday, March 1. The park entrance fee will be waived for Arts and Crafts Fair attendees. The fair is known for its handcrafted art selection, tasty food vendors and cultural assets. Native American artists will display a variety of crafts and authentic designs. There will be over 60 art vendors showing and selling a variety of art during the event. Local artisans will showcase and sell jewelry, art, wood carvings, woodcraft, textile arts, metalwork and more. Food vendors will sell an array of desserts, beverages and savory cuisine. The Arts and Crafts Fair is co-sponsored this year by Friends of White Tank Park, White Tank Mountains Conservancy, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department and Renewal by Andersen. White Tank Mountain Park is at 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell. For more information, visit friendsofwhitetankpark.org.

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Best places to see wildflowers in Phoenix this spring: Is another superbloom in store? Best places to see Arizona wildflowers Wildflowers in bloom at Picacho Peak State Park in 2019. Roger Naylor, Special for The RepublicPublished 5:00 a.m. MT Feb. 28, 2019 | Updated 11:03 a.m. MT Feb. 24, 2020

For flower chasers like me, 2019 was the Super Bowl, Christmas morning and Taco Tuesday all rolled into one. A wet winter produced a bounty of spring blooms across the Arizona desert unlike anything seen for quite a while. Superbloom years are extremely rare so its unlikely we would have them in back-to-back springs. Yet we may be poised to beat the odds. Early indications point to another excellent year for wildflowers. And nothing could make me happier. My Facebook and Twitter feeds from late winter into spring are almost solid wildflowers. I am obsessed with desert blooms and make no apologies for it. There is magic in these ethereal beauties. They are ground-level fireworks, a spill of neon and a fleetingly joyous welcome mat in these arid lands. One of the great pleasures of being a desert dweller is spending a 70-degree winter day standing amid a

field of golden poppies. And then texting friends back East and asking them what they’re doing. MORE THINGS TO DO: For restaurant reviews, travel tips, concert picks and more, subscribe to azcentral.com. Wildflower hiking dos and don'ts But first, let’s establish a couple of rules so everyone can enjoy the season’s bounty. First, don’t pick wildflowers. They’ll die soon after being plucked and won’t have a chance to spread seeds. Leave them for others to enjoy. Second, stay on trails and watch where you step. There could be small seedlings all around. Do not trample the flowers by wading into a field — thus ruining them for everyone — just so you can snag a selfie. Staying on the path is also a safety issue. I hiked more than 800 miles of Arizona trails last year and saw a total of three rattlesnakes. All were in March, while I was on wildflower hikes. This is the season snakes are most active. Stay on a clear path where you can see around your feet. Start wading into the greenery or climbing over boulders and you make yourself more vulnerable. Now, here are some of the best places to see spring wildflowers throughout metro Phoenix. White Tank Mountain Regional Park Farmlands in the West Valley come to an abrupt end, breaking against the wall of White Tank Mountain Regional Park. Flowers got an early start early in this 30,000-acre park. Poppies, desert lavender, lupines, wild geraniums, buckwheat, fleabane and combseed are already in bloom. Rangers predict an early and

abundant season so you may want to make this one of your first stops. The best locations will vary week to week. Goat Camp, Mesquite and Mule Deer are all good flower trails. Details: 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell. $7 per vehicle. 623-935-2505, www.maricopacountyparks.net. More: Arizona wildflower hikes and scenic drives Estrella Mountain Regional Park This big park in Goodyear had a bountiful season last year and things are looking very green in 2020. Visitors will find a nice medley of brittlebush, Mexican goldpoppies, globemallows, rock daisies and fiddlenecks. Some of the best sightings can be found along the first 2 miles of the Rainbow Valley Trail. Look for swaths of color along the Quail and Gadsden trails as well. Stop at the Nature Center to see the exhibits and get the latest info. Guided wildflower hikes are offered March 6 and 14. Details: 14805 W. Vineyard Ave., Goodyear. $7 per vehicle. 623-932-3811, www.maricopacountyparks.net. South Mountain Park Plenty of spring visitors flock to the long flowing ridgeline of South Mountain Park for vibrant color. Try the easy Bajada Trail, which parallels San Juan Road at the base of the Gila Range. It’s known for carpets of poppies and the small-blossomed bladderpod after wet winters. Another option is climbing the north face of South Mountain on the Ranger Trail, where the slopes are often streaked with an assortment of flowers. Details: 10919 S. Central Ave., Phoenix. See website for other entrances and trailheads. Free. 602-262-7393, www.phoenix.gov/parks.

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McDowell Sonoran Preserve More than 200 miles of trails fan out across Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve. You’re likely to find an array of blooms along many of them this spring. Here are a few that already bear a reputation as reliable wildflower hotspots: Taliesin Overlook (Lost Dog Trailhead). Marcus Landslide Trail (Tom's Thumb Trailhead). Cone Mountain Loop (Brown’s Ranch Trailhead). Granite Mountain Loop (Granite Mountain Trailhead). See trailhead locations on the website, and check the online calendar for guided hikes offered through mid-April. Details: Free. 480-312-7013, www.mcdowellsonoran.org. These parks have the best displays of poppies, lupines, globe mallow and other springtime flowers. Jill Cassidy/azcentral.com Cave Creek Regional Park Sitting at a slightly higher elevation, the wildflower season may begin a bit later at Cave Creek Regional Park. Ranger-led hikes take place every Thursday in March. But don’t wait too late. If temperatures heat up, it could be a short wildflower season. Details: 37900 E. Cave Creek Parkway, Cave Creek. $7 per vehicle. 623-465-0431, www.maricopacountyparks.net. Usery Mountain Regional Park Hillsides here were blanketed with wildflowers last spring and the stage seems to be set for a repeat performance. Poppies, primrose, lupines, rock daisies, fairy duster and the flame-orange tips of ocotillo add drama to mountains that already exhibit plenty on their own. The Userys gain enough elevation to

afford tremendous views back toward Phoenix and farther east to the rolling waves of the Goldfield and Superstition mountains. Hike the slopes to Wind Cave and Pass Mountain to admire the best panoramas while wading through bands of flowers. Rangers will conduct a wildflower walk on March 4. Details: 3939 N. Usery Pass Road, Mesa. $7 per vehicle. 480-984-0032, www.maricopacountyparks.net. Lake Pleasant There’s always a bit of magic where desert and water meet. Add flowers to the mix and that’s a great way to spend a day. At Lake Pleasant Regional Park, the heaviest concentration of poppies can be found on Pipeline Canyon Trail, especially from the southern trailhead to the floating bridge a half-mile away. The bridge is guarded by some extremely robust globemallows the size of landscape shrubs. A nice assortment of blooms also lines the Beardsley, Wild Burro and Cottonwood trails. Wildflower hikes will be held March 6 and 13. Details: 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Road, Morristown. $7 per vehicle. 928-501-1710, www.maricopacountyparks.net. Bartlett Lake The road to Bartlett Lake quickly leaves suburbs behind and winds past rolling hills to the sparkling reservoir cradled by mountains. Poppies and lupines were especially profuse last year. I was there on March 10 and could not have timed it better. Be sure to keep an eye peeled for white poppies; this is a good spot for them. Some of the best flower sightings are along the road to Rattlesnake Cove. The Palo Verde Trail parallels the shoreline, pinning hikers between flowers and

the lake, a wonderful place to be on a warm March day. Details: Rattlesnake Cove is 21 miles east of Carefree. An $8 Tonto Day Pass is required. See the website for directions to the lake and a list of Tonto Pass vendors. 480-595-3300, www.fs.usda.gov/tonto. Meet Roger Naylor Attend a talk by The Arizona Republic’s own travel expert and author Roger Naylor this month. He’ll be discussing his latest book, "Arizona State Parks: A Guide to Amazing Places in the Grand Canyon State." There will be a PowerPoint photo presentation, Q&A and book signing. All talks are free to attend. Sierra Vista: 12:10 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26. Cochise College Downtown Center, 2600 E. Willcox Drive. 520-515-5492. Coolidge: Noon Saturday, Feb. 29. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, 11 W. Ruins Drive, 520-723-3172, www.nps.gov/cagr. Chandler: 11 a.m. Saturday, March 7. Sibley’s West, 72 S. San Marcos Place. 480-899-4480, www.sibleyswest.com. Sierra Vista: 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 10. Sierra Vista Public Library, 2600 E. Tacoma St. 520-458-4225. Find the reporter at www.rogernaylor.com. Or follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RogerNaylorinAZ or Twitter @AZRogerNaylor. Peralta Park and More: Present and Planned Open Space and Trails SALT Speakers Series Feb. 26th Feb 18, 2020 Updated Feb 18, 2020

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As one of the fastest growing counties in the state, Pinal County has impressive plans for development of regional parks and trails. Kent Taylor, director of the Open Space and Trails Department, is responsible for, not only implementing these plans, but managing the county’s existing inventory. Mr. Taylor will present at the SALT Speakers Series Feb. 26th at 6:30 p.m. in the Apache Junction Multi-Generational Center, 1035 N. Idaho Rd., Rm. B-117. The series is co-sponsored by the Superstition Area Land Trust (SALT) and the Apache Junction Parks & Recreation Department. Talks are held on most 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, October-April. ALL are free and geared for the public. Among topics he will cover are current status and plans for nearby Peralta Regional Park and Lost Goldmine Trail; Palo Verde Regional Park near Maricopa; San Tan Regional Park; the 50 miles of the Arizona National Scenic Trail within the county; four community parks and West Pinal Park near Stanfield. The opening of the first segment of the CAP National Recreation Trail – 10.5 miles north from the Pinal/Pima border – has afforded non-motorized trail users views of the Tortolita and Picacho

Mountains. When completed, the 100 miles of the Trail within the county will connect the communities of Red Rock, Eloy, Coolidge, Florence and Apache Junction. Plans call for the Trail to be constructed along the entire 336 mile length of the canal, making it the second-longest in the state. The county’s Open Space and Trails Master Plan, which is part of its Comprehensive Plan, guides the work of the Open Space and Trails Department – which has only been in existence a few short years. In addition, there is an Advisory Commission to advise and make recommendation to the department and to the Pinal County Supervisors. Kent Taylor is an avid hiker and mountain biker, completing the entirety of the Arizona National Scenic Trail. He is a Certified Park and Recreation Professional through the National Park and Recreation Association. Prior to joining Pinal County in 2006, he was a small business owner for 16 years. Taylor’s volunteer involvement includes: Current member, Arizona Outdoor Coordinating Commission; current Board Member, Arizona Heritage Alliance; current Board Member and past President and Treasurer, Arizona Trail Association; past Chairman, city of Casa Grande Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission and past Chairman, Arizona State Committee on Trails. Mr. Taylor earned a MPA from Troy University and a BS and MS degree from Northern Arizona University. SALT is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. You can learn more about us, what we do, and how to join and/or contribute at azsalt.org.

Huss Brewing Co. Releases 2 New IPAs

Press Release Feb. 11, 2020 at 10:38 AM PHOENIX — Arizona’s own, Huss Brewing Co. is proud to announce it’s rolling out two new IPA craft beers, Hopaloosa Hazy and Papago Desert Sage Orange, as well as the return of the seasonal, community-grown CenPho Citrus IPA. Combined with Huss’ flagship IPA, Copper State, and this Tempe-based brewery now offers multiple wildly unique, and distinctly Arizona twists on the nation’s most popular craft beer style, the India Pale Ale. Handcrafted by Brewmaster Jeff Huss and Head Brewer Matt Johnson, each of these new IPAs has a unique flavor profile, and interesting backstory, including the all-new Papago Desert Sage Orange IPA, which was designed in collaboration with the Aravaipa Trail Runners for their annual Javelina Jundred, a 100-mile/100-kilometer trail run. “Brewed with orange zest, plus a hint of sage and agave to represent the authentic flavors and aromas of the Arizona desert, the Papago Desert Sage Orange IPA (6.5% ABV| 69 IBUs) was inspired by Aravaipa’s annual trail run through Scottsdale’s McDowell Mountains,” Jeff Huss says. Hosted every Halloween, the race takes runners from the northeast Valley’s historic citrus groves to the desert-sage-dotted foothills of the McDowell Mountain Regional Park. A uniquely Arizona experience that anyone can now recreate simply by popping open a can of Huss beer. Huss’ first-ever hazy-style IPA, the Hopaloosa Hazy IPA (6.6% ABV | 38 IBUs) is double dry hopped to create a bold brew worthy of its namesake, the Native American Appaloosa horse.

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Referring to hops added to the beer after the initial fermentation is complete, Huss’ version is double dry hopped with Falconer’s Flight, Amarillo and Citra hops to add aromatics of orange, tangerine and pineapple, accompanied by flavors of grapefruit and guava. Plus, February also marks the return of Huss’ seasonal CenPho Citrus IPA (6.5% ABV | 48 IBUs), brimming with fresh lemon, grapefruit and orange and other homegrown backyard citrus collected from the historic neighborhoods surrounded Huss’ Taproom in Uptown Phoenix. Created in partnership with Phoenix City Councilwoman, Laura Pastor, who represents District 4, home to both Huss’ Uptown Taproom, and the state’s first-ever experimental citrus trees (planted circa 1895), every winter Huss invites the community to participate in crafting this truly community-brewed IPA by donating citrus in exchange for two free pints sample at the annual Huss Citrus Fest at Uptown Plaza (Feb 15, 2020). Not to mention Huss’ flagship Copper State IPA (6.5% ABV | 69 IBUs), available all-year-round it’s a celebration of all things Arizona thanks to a blend of bold hops and juicy yet dry tropical fruit flavors for a truly balanced, enjoyable IPA. Now available at your favorite bars and restaurants Valley-wide, as well as the Huss taprooms in Tempe and Phoenix, Huss Brewing is also available at select grocery and convenience stores across Arizona.

Hundreds To Cycle To Fight MS Bike MS: Arizona, hosted by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, is running the event. By Press Release Desk, News Partner

Feb 21, 2020 10:14 am MT

It's a part of the largest fundraising bike series in the world. (Renee Schiavone/Patch) PHOENIX, AZ — Over 300 cyclists will attempt to raise $210,000 and ride up to 150 miles over two days in the annual Bike MS: Arizona to rally around a cure for multiple sclerosis (MS)—a neurological disease affecting nearly 1 million people living in the U.S., which currently has no known cause or cure. Bike MS: Arizona, hosted by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, will depart from McDowell Mountain Regional Park on March 28 –including options to ride within the park, off-road mountain biking, or road routes—and conclude at McDowell Mountain Regional Park on March 29. Participants will camp in the park throughout the event, with festivities like live music, beer garden, and an entire rider village occurring at the park throughout the weekend. "It's incredibly powerful to watch hundreds of people ride 100 miles for a cause," said Karen LaPolice Cummins, President, National MS Society, Arizona. "MS is a disease that, although nearly 1 million Americans live with the neurological disease, most people don't know or understand what MS is. Bike MS Arizona: Endeavor in the Desert is our way of shining some awareness on MS, because it's going to take all of us to find a cure."

Bike MS: Arizona is one of nearly 70 rides across the country. This year, more than 80,000 people are expected to participate in Bike MS nationwide. Each cyclist at Bike MS: Arizona commits to raising a minimum of $250 dollars. Nationally, Bike MS cyclists, volunteers, and donors have raised more than $1.3 billion since the first ride in 1980, which goes toward research for a cure as well as programs to help those with MS live their best lives today. WHEN: Begins at 7am on Saturday, March 28 and ends approximately 12:00pm noon on Sunday, March 29, 2020 WHERE: Start and finish at McDowell Mountain Regional Park (16300 McDowell Mountain Park Drive, Fountain Hills, AZ 85264) WHY BIKE MS: Bike MS brings people together as individuals and as teams for an extraordinary experience while raising money to make a difference in the lives of people affected by MS. PARTICIPATION/ VOLUNTEER REGISTRATION: bikeMS.org, 855-372-1331 or fundraisingsupport@nmss.org. Bike MS PSAs: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/About-the-Society/Press-Room/PSAs Primal is the Premier National Sponsor of Bike MS and the official National Cycling Apparel Sponsor. Primal also sponsors "I Ride with MS," a special program recognizing Bike MS cyclists living with the disease. Left Hand Brewing is the National Sponsor of Bike MS. Bike MS Arizona is locally presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. Other Local sponsors include Point B, Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company, and BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse.

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To experience Bike MS, check out this video: https://youtu.be/9yzv6GOz8oA. About Multiple Sclerosis Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. There is currently no cure for MS. Symptoms vary from person to person and range from numbness and tingling, to mobility challenges, blindness and paralysis. An estimated 1 million people live with MS in the United States. Most people are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50 and it affects women three times more than men. About the National Multiple Sclerosis Society The National MS Society, founded in 1946, funds cutting-edge research, drives change through advocacy, and provides programs and services to help people affected by MS live their best lives.

New Peralta Regional Park targets 2021 opening Pinal County News SanTanValley.com Tuesday, 18 February 2020

The future Peralta Regional Park in Pinal County could be open to the public in 2021 after the Arizona State Parks Board approved the

County's application for a Land and Water Conservation grant, February 13, 2020. The project, set in the shadows of the Superstition Mountains and described as a spectacular natural jewel on the outer edge of the Phoenix area, will now move to the final design phase, with construction targeted to get underway later this year. The grant, which amounts to $2,051,203.50, will be matched equally by the County and means the project is now fully funded. "Securing this LWCF grant is a critical component to beginning the final design and development of this fantastic recreational resource," commented Kent Taylor, Pinal County's Open Space and Trails Director. "We greatly appreciate the assistance of both Arizona State Parks and Trails staff and the Arizona State Parks Board for sharing our vision for the park. While we can't wait to finalize the design and begin construction, we are more excited about finally being able to see residents and visitors enjoying this park in the not too distant future." Plans for the 480-acre park, off of Peralta Road, include around 8 miles of multi-use trails, as well as areas for picnicking, camping and rock climbing. Despite being so close to civilization, its deliberately limited infrastructure and primitive setting will also allow it to feature a dark-sky designation for night sky viewing. Plans for the park have been developed in conjunction with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Forest Service (FS), Arizona State Land Department (ASLD), Arizona Game and Fish Department (AG&FD) and the City of Apache Junction.

Valley 101: Why do Arizona mountains have letters on them? WHAT'S THE STORY BEHIND THE "PHOENIX" SIGN ON USERY MOUNTAIN IN MESA? OR "A" MOUNTAIN AND "S" MOUNTAIN? VALLEY 101 DIGS IN. Taylor Seely, The Republic | azcentral.com Published 6:00 a.m. MT Feb. 17, 2020 | Updated 6:20 a.m. MT Feb. 17, 2020 There are at least seven mountains in Maricopa County with letters decorating the side. Have you ever wondered why they were put in? Or when? We'll give you one hint: It comes down to more than just community pride.

Brennan Basler, aka "Ranger B," stands with Lucy Bentz, 12, at Usery Mountain Regional Park. Ranger B shared the story behind the "<Phoenix" sign with Bentz for an episode of Valley 101, an Arizona Republic podcast about metro Phoenix. (Photo: Taylor Seely/The Republic) This week, Valley 101 digs into the history behind the "<Phoenix" sign on Usery Mountain in Mesa, "A" Mountain in Tempe and "S" Mountain in Phoenix. Producer Taylor Seely reports alongside Lucy Bentz, a 12-year-old Goodyear student who submitted the question. In this episode, you'll hear from: Brennan Basler, aka "Ranger B," educational ranger at Usery

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Mountain Regional Park with Maricopa County Parks and Recreation. Arizona State University archivist Rob Spindler. Sunnyslope Historical Society Vice President Pat Wilkinson. Listen to the episode: The best way to listen is to subscribe to Valley 101 on your favorite podcast app, but you can also stream the full episode below. NOTE: Valley 101 is intended to be heard. But we also offer a transcript of the episode script. There may be slight deviations from the podcast audio. Part 1: Usery Mountain’s “<Phoenix” sign TAYLOR: That’s Lucy Bentz. She’s reading a boys magazine article dated August thirteenth, nineteen-fifty-six. **Lucy’s voice** TAYLOR: It’s by Stookie Allen, and the headline reads .. Teenage Triumphs. Air marker the world’s largest, exclamation point! **Lucy’s voice** TAYLOR: The article was gifted to her by our guide for the day. Brennan Basler: So I am Brennan Basler, a.k.a. Ranger B, and I'm the interpretive or educational ranger at Usery Mountain Regional Park, which is part of the Maricopa County Parks and Rec system TAYLOR: It’s me, Lucy, her dad Paul, and Ranger B. We’ve made the drive out to Usery Mountain in Mesa where there’s a HUMONGOUS white arrow pointing west and letters spelling Phoenix on the side of the mountain. Brennan Basler: From the front of the arrow in front of Phoenix to the back of the X, it's 1000 feet wide. So

that's the height of the Eiffel Tower if you were to turn it up vertically. TAYLOR: Ranger B has taken the three of us past a no trespassing sign to the base of the mountain. It’s guarded because, well… Ranger B Lucy and Paul at usery mtn *gunshots* Brennan Basler: *laughs* gunshots. There's a gun range at the base of the Phoenix sign here. So that's why we're on this side of the fence. TAYLOR: So while bullets were flying, Ranger B shared with us the story of the Usery mountain sign. Brennan Basler: So the story behind the Phoenix sign here on the side of Usery Mountain is back in the 1950s. *50s style music* Brennan Basler: There was a Boy Scout troop. This Boy Scout troop was under the direction of an ex World War Two pilot that had an interest in creating this sign. And his purpose in doing it was to create an air marker that guided airplanes toward Phoenix, because you can see where the arrow is pointing to the west and Phoenix is west of us. And so he got this Boy Scout troop together and it took them five and a half years of their free time to come up here and create this sign. *50s style music fades out* now this is back in the 50s. I know it wouldn't work today, but these Boy Scouts were actually allowed to use boxes of dynamite. Yes. To blast up the rock along the side of the mountain and then assemble those rocks into the word Phoenix. So the rocks come from the side of the mountain, but they had to break a lot of it up boulders and things like that to be able to create that sign there. And then they painted it when it was all finished.

TAYLOR: The leader of that Boy Scout troop was named Charlie Merritt. Brennan Basler: ] he thought to be really great to help pilots find Phoenix. My personal opinion about this sign, my personal opinion is that I would be nervous about getting on a plane with a pilot that needed this to find Phoenix. [00:09:45][13.2] T AYLOR: Let’s talk about that. Because Lucy also seemed a little alarmed at the idea that pilots might need mountain signs for navigation Paul Bentz: [00:14:38] This thing was built by teenagers. You're about to be a teenager, Lucy. Do you think you'd spend five years moving rocks up a mountain like this? Lucy Bentz: No. I have better things to do. I don't want it. I think pilots should know where Phoenix is. TAYLOR: So… do pilots really use these signs? Not anymore. Don’t worry! Brennan Basler: You're right in today's world, Lucy. Pilots do know that because they go by instrumentation, they don't use visual markers from the plane to be able to know where they are. But back in the 1950s, especially for single planes, we're not talking noncommercial type planes. They used visual markers on the ground to find their way around. So it was a different era than it would be today. TAYLOR: So, you can rest easy on your next flight. Your pilot isn’t searching for landmarks to know where to go. But, pilots weren’t the only reason hillside letters were put up. TAYLOR: A Mountain in Tempe, for example, was not put up for pilots.

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Maracay will open Arroyo Seco in Buckeye REAL ESTATE | 13 Feb | AZ BUSINESS MAGAZINE Maracay is unveiling its highly anticipated Arroyo Seco residential community, located near the edge of the stunning White Tank Mountains in Buckeye, Arizona, on Saturday, Feb. 15. The grand opening event will include a neighborhood gathering from 12-3 p.m. and feature a catered lunch and refreshments. Potential homebuyers are encouraged to attend the family-friendly event, explore the community and learn all about the neighborhood and its amenities with one of Maracay’s New Home Advisors. Featuring a monumental entrance that sets the stage for a collection of oversized homesites, Arroyo Seco offers the intimacy of a private neighborhood without forfeiting the benefits of an amenity-rich community. The largest homesites available offer more than one-quarter acre, which provide added elbow room between homes to maximize living space and privacy. Meanwhile, a majority of the homesites are also strategically situated in a north/south orientation for cooler home interiors during the warm summer months. “Arroyo Seco offers a selection of thoughtful home amenities designed to appeal to those who can’t get enough of the West Valley’s easy access to adventure. Outdoor lovers will enjoy the detached or attached RV garages and accessory buildings, while multi-generational families will fall in love with the detached casita option,” said Maracay Project Development Manager Stephen Burris. “The detached or attached RV garages and accessory buildings

are perfect for storing a boat, RV or gear for an outdoor excursion or trip to nearby Lake Pleasant.” Families can choose from five spacious, one- and two-story floor plans, ranging from approximately 2,695 to 4,347 square feet, and personalize each home with Maracay’s Flex Design® options. Included options with these homes are GE® stainless steel appliances, granite kitchen countertops, gas tankless water heaters and a detached casita option with a full living and dining area, walk-in closet, bedroom, bathroom and covered porch. Beyond each home’s four walls, residents will find a community that celebrates the outdoors with a centrally located park, complete with sports fields and plenty of open space for the kids to roam and play. Volleyball and basketball courts, a tot lot, ramadas and community grills beckon neighbors outside for afternoon barbecues, al fresco dining and weekend get-togethers with friends and family. Nearby, Maricopa County’s largest regional park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, offers 30,000 square feet of rugged and beautiful desert-mountain landscape featuring a range of outdoor activities, including tent or RV camping, picnicking, hiking and much more. Big-city amenities are also just a short trip away via State Route 303 and Interstate 10, which puts Arroyo Seco just 20 minutes from Downtown Phoenix. The homes at Arroyo Seco will be registered with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), a third-party rating system that verifies compliance across several areas addressing sustainability, with the goal of earning the LEED® Certified designation. Designed to use 30–50 percent less energy than typical homes, each home will meet

the EPA’s Indoor airPLUS specifications and will feature water-efficient fixtures, LED lighting, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, Energy Star® appliances, tankless water heaters, and Wi-Fi-enabled, programmable thermostats. All homes will also be Energy Star® certified and feature the latest in smart home technology and Maracay’s proprietary LivingSmart® program for maximum performance and cost efficiency. For more information about Arroyo Seco, please contact Maracay’s New Homes Specialist Team at NewHomes@MaracayHomes.com or by calling (480) 401-5620.

7 Spring Hikes That Are Less Than An Hour's Drive From Phoenix Grab your BFF for some hiking fun. Briana Renee Dahlberg Updated on February 12 @ 11:36 AM

There's no denying that springtime in the Grand Canyon State is our favorite season of the year. Blooming wildflowers and cool, sunny weather are one of many things to expect if you're looking for the best hiking spots near Phoenix. You can also bring your pet along on some of these trails too! If not, grab your BFF instead. After a long, stressful week, there's nothing like a good ol' hike to relax us. Our list below includes some awesome spots you can visit with friends, family or by yourself.

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If you're a major history buff, our list has a couple of hidden trails where you can see petroglyphs. We promise they're worth a visit. Whether you're a Phoenix local or just passing through, these mini-adventures are less than an hour from the Valley. Sunrise Trail Difficulty: Moderate Length: Approx. 3.6-miles roundtrip Address: 12101 N. 145th Way, Scottsdale, AZ Why You Need To Go: With amazing scenic views, this is a great place to hike after a week of work.

Roadrunner Trail Difficulty: Easy Length: Approx. 1.5-miles Address: Lake Pleasant Regional Park, AZ Why You Need To Go: This easy trail overlooks the lake and will lead you to a picnic area. Grab your camera, BFF, and pack a lunch for a day at Lake Pleasant. Website Hieroglyphic Trail Difficulty: Easy to moderate Length: Approx. 3-miles roundtrip Address: Apache Junction, AZ Why You Need To Go: Towards the end of the path, you'll be able to see Native American petroglyphs. Talk about a glimpse into the past!

Summit Trail Difficulty: Moderate to difficult Length: Approx. 1.2-miles roundtrip Address: 2701 E. Squaw Peak Dr., Phoenix, AZ Why You Need To Go: You might sweat a little to get panoramic views of the city below. It's definitely worth it though.

Mormon Trail Difficulty: Moderate Length: Approx. 1.2-miles roundtrip Address: 8610 S. 24th St., Phoenix, AZ Why You Need To Go: You'll be able to walk through a natural tunnel. If you look closely, you can spot some petroglyphs too.

Apache Wash Loop Difficulty: Easy Length: Approx. 5.6-miles roundtrip Address: 1600 E. Sonoran Desert Dr., Phoenix, AZ Why You Need To Go: Grab your pals and your favorite mountain bike for this trail. You'll get the most amazing desert and cactus views.

Echo Canyon Trail Difficulty: Difficult Length: Approx. 2.4-miles roundtrip Address: 4925 E. McDonald Dr., Phoenix, AZ Why You Need To Go: This summit hike in the city will give you 360-degree sights of the Valley. Why not stop by for a romantic sunset hike?

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We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.

Watch out for these marathon-related road closures in Mesa on Saturday Weldon B. Johnson, Arizona Republic Published 7:00 a.m. MT Feb. 7, 2020 | Updated 8:57 a.m. MT Feb. 7, 2020 A marathon expected to draw thousands of runners could snarl traffic in parts of Mesa on the morning of Saturday, Feb. 8. More than 10,500 runners are expected to take part in the ninth annual Sprouts Mesa Marathon. Races — there are a half marathon, 10K and kids 1K in addition to the full marathon — begin at 6:30 a.m. and last until about 12:30 p.m. Runners from 20 countries and all 50 states have registered. The race

has been certified as a Boston Marathon qualifier. The marathon starts at Usery Mountain Regional Park in east Mesa and ends at Mesa Riverview shopping area at Alma School Road just north of Rio Salado Parkway. Some streets along the route will be closed starting at 4 a.m. and will reopen as the race progresses. All streets are expected to be reopened by 1:30 p.m. For a detailed map of street closures go to gis.mesaaz.gov/mesamarathon. Details: mesamarathon.com.

Mesa offering rerouting assistance ahead of Saturday's 2020 Sprouts Mesa Marathon Posted: 4:28 AM, Feb 07, 2020 Updated: 6:42 AM, Feb 08, 2020

By: John Genovese MESA, AZ — More than 7,000 runners are expected to take part in Saturday's 2020 Sprouts Mesa Marathon and the city is offering resources for people who aren't running to plan ahead of road closures. "During the marathon we essentially cut the City of Mesa in half," traffic

control supervisor Craig Brisbois told ABC15. The marathon, beginning in Usery Mountain Regional Park and ending at Mesa Riverview, will close major intersections and restrict traffic from the early morning through approximately 1 p.m. Saturday. Brisbois said after hearing from residents in years past, the city launched an interactive map online and is offering a phone number for anyone who is traveling in the city to receive one-on-one rerouting assistance. Traffic employees will be in communication with police and race organizers throughout the marathon to pass along updates as intersections and roads reopen. "Obviously we really try to encourage people to get away from the race route because as you get more traffic towards the route, it gets very congested," he said. To view the map, click here. For assistance over the phone now through the end of the race, call 480-644-4882.

St. Joseph the Worker hosts 22nd annual Hike for the Homeless fundraiser Proceeds help individuals experiencing homelessness or hardship find self-sufficiency through quality employment Posted Friday, February 7, 2020 1:30 pm Independent Newsmedia At 8 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, St. Joseph the Worker will kick off the 22nd annual Hike for the Homeless fundraiser at McDowell Mountain Regional Park in Fountain Hills.

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For over 30 years, SJW’s sole mission has been to assist economically deprived individuals become self-sufficient with the support needed to secure quality employment. Proceeds from the hike will directly fund this mission. In fiscal year 18-19, Hike for the Homeless helped put nearly 3,681 people experiencing economic hardship back to work, according to a press release. Brent Downs, SJW executive director, says the organization gives people a hand-up, not a hand-out. “St. Joseph the Worker is 100 percent community funded, which means our success depends on the generous support from the community. By supporting this event, you’re empowering individuals who are experiencing homelessness or hardship to become self-sufficient through quality employment allowing them to turn their lives around and be something great.” Registered hikers will have the option between a 1.5-mile or 4.5-mile hike and will receive a trendy Hike for the Homeless bandanna. In addition, attendees will be treated to free breakfast burritos from San Tan Brewing Company. SJW is the conduit to connect job seekers to jobs, building on existing strengths and reducing or eliminating any barriers to employment. Their proven employment model provides one-on-one support, computer and internet access, professional clothing, resume development, mock interviews, financial coaching, certification and licensure fees, tools, safety equipment, and the transportation needed to obtain and sustain employment.

For more information or to register for the hike, visit sjwjobs.org.

DESERT DIAMONDS SEE 15 MLB TEAMS AT SPRING TRAINING IN THE GREATER PHOENIX AREA February 7, 2020By MeLinda Schnyder I’m not sure that baseball is my favorite sport (I’m looking at you, college football), but hands down my favorite season is spring training. It’s a great reason to escape Kansas for Arizona to enjoy temperatures in the 70s and see Major League Baseball players in small venues without spending a fortune on tickets—and there’s plenty of time to visit nearby attractions or enjoy resort amenities because all of the Cactus League’s ballparks are concentrated in the greater Phoenix area. Fifteen major league teams play more than 200 games here during the monthlong spring training; the seventy-third Cactus League season runs February 21 through March 24 (in one of the earliest opening days on record, the 2020 MLB regular season starts March 26 for all 30 teams). Most games are played at 1 p.m. to take advantage of the sunshine and warm daytime temperatures. That makes it hard to see more than one game a day, though there are a few night games played each week; we’ve managed to see five games in four days on several trips. Half the stadiums are in the west valley and half in the east valley. You can choose to fly in to the airport closest to your favorite team’s home field and base yourself at one stadium, or you can stay in a central location and visit as many of the 10 stadiums as you can manage. On our last two spring training pilgrimages, we’ve stayed at

the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort and the Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort, sister properties that make it easy to traverse the valley by car. I like visiting different ballparks so that I can enjoy fish tacos and craft beer from the Pacific Northwest while watching a Seattle Mariners game at the Peoria Sports Complex one day then enjoy barbecue and a Boulevard beer while catching a Kansas City Royals game at the Surprise Stadium the next day. Lawn seating at most parks starts around $10 per ticket, and reserved seating varies by team and whether you’re seeing a standard or premium matchup. Tickets are already on sale online or you can purchase at the gate, but keep in mind that rivalries, and many Chicago Cubs games, sell out. Visit the websites below for each team to see schedules and promotions, find out which seats offer shade, when open practices take place, where to line up for autographs, and any special fan experiences available. Milwaukee Brewers Fly in: American Family Fields of Phoenix is 10 miles southeast of Glendale Municipal Airport, 12 miles northwest of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, 15 miles northeast of Phoenix Goodyear Airport, and 18 miles south of Phoenix Deer Valley Airport. Near: Renovations to transform Maryvale Baseball Park into American Family Fields of Phoenix earned Ballpark Digest’s 2019 Ballpark Renovation of the Year. You can see displays outside the park honoring players with retired numbers (added during the renovation), but otherwise you’ll need to head back to Phoenix (downtown is 8 miles away) or one of the other suburbs for attractions.

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Chicago White Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers Fly in: Camelback Ranch-Glendale is 6 miles south of Glendale Municipal Airport, 10 miles northeast of Phoenix Goodyear Airport, 21 miles northwest of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, and 23 miles southwest of Phoenix Deer Valley Airport. Near: The new Ballpark Boulevard connects the stadium complex to Glendale’s Westgate Entertainment District, Tanger Outlets, the National Hockey League’s Arizona Coyotes’ arena (their season coincides with spring training), and Topgolf. More information: White Sox spring training, Dodgers spring training, Glendale Cleveland Indians and Cincinnati Reds Fly in: Goodyear Ballpark in Goodyear is 3 miles west of Phoenix Goodyear Airport, 13 miles southwest of Glendale Municipal Airport, 21 miles east of Buckeye Municipal Airport, and 25 miles west of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Near: Explore mountains and desert at Estrella Mountain Regional Park; go horseback riding; and peruse public art exhibits. More information: Indians spring training, Reds spring training, Goodyear Oakland Athletics Fly in: Hohokam Stadium in Mesa is 11 miles east of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, 13 miles north of Chandler Municipal Airport, 19 miles south of Scottsdale Airport, and 22 miles northwest of Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. Near: Mesa is the third largest city in

Arizona, with a mix of outdoor activities and museums. Aviation enthusiasts might enjoy the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum, less than 10 miles east of the stadium. More information: A’s spring training, Mesa Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres Fly in: Peoria Sports Complex in Peoria is 10 miles northeast of Glendale Municipal Airport, 12 miles west of Phoenix Deer Valley Airport, and 20 miles northeast of Phoenix Goodyear Airport. Near: Across the street is P83, an entertainment district with more than 20 restaurants and bars as well as entertainment like Modern Round, a virtual shooting lounge; golf; and land and water activities at Lake Pleasant. More information: Mariners spring training, Padres spring training, Peoria Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies Fly in: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick in Scottsdale is 8 miles south of Scottsdale Airport and 14 miles northeast of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Near: Take in the Great Wolf Lodge; Talking Stick Resort, featuring a casino and golf club; Topgolf; OdySea Aquarium; and Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament. More information: Diamondbacks spring training, Rockies spring training, Scottsdale San Francisco Giants Fly in: Scottsdale Stadium in Scottsdale is 7 miles northeast of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and 10 miles south of Scottsdale Airport.

Near: You’ll be within walking distance of Old Town Scottsdale, full of restaurants, shops, and hotels. Also enjoy Camelback Mountain and Desert Botanical Garden and other attractions at Papago Park. More information: Giants spring training, Scottsdale Chicago Cubs Fly in: Sloan Park in Mesa is 7 miles east of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, 17 miles south of Scottsdale Airport, and 25 miles northwest of Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. Near: The stadium is adjacent to Riverview Park complex with rock-climbing walls, water features, and play equipment; Sheraton Mesa Hotel at Wrigleyville West; and Mesa Riverview open-air shopping center featuring dining, shopping, and entertainment. More information: Cubs spring training, Mesa Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers Fly in: Surprise Stadium in Surprise is 11 miles northwest of Glendale Municipal Airport, 15 miles north of Phoenix Goodyear Airport, and 21 miles west of Phoenix Deer Valley Airport. Near: Surprise is the farthest northwest of the stadiums (Peoria is 10 miles to the east). The town has golf courses, shopping, art galleries, and a performing arts venue. More information: Royals spring training, Rangers spring training, Surprise Los Angeles Angels Fly in: Tempe Diablo Stadium in Tempe is 4 miles southeast of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, 20 miles northwest of Chandler Municipal Airport, and

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25 miles south of Scottsdale Airport. Near: Tempe is one of the most centrally located parks in the valley, and the city hosts the Innings Festival February 29 through March 1 at Tempe Beach Park and Arts Park with national headlining bands and appearances by MLB legends. More information: Angels spring training, Tempe

Letter from Clint Hickman, District 4 Chairman, Maricopa County Board of Supervisors February 5, 2020 FoothillsFocus PHOENIX – You may have heard I got a promotion of sorts. This year, I’ll be leading the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors as Chairman. In many ways, it’s like being the captain of a ship that has already charted a good course. I’m there at the wheel, looking out for rocks, ready to make small adjustments here or there; but thanks to the strong leadership of previous chairmen of the board, I don’t see the need for major course corrections. I’m honored my colleagues chose me for this role in such an important year for our region, and I wanted to share my vision for the county as a whole – and the West Valley in particular – in 2020. As a county government, our job is not to solve every problem or be involved in every issue; it’s to bring stability to a diverse and dynamic region. It’s to make this a place where prosperity lasts and democracy flourishes. Nowhere is that more important than in the West Valley, which is growing faster than any other part of Maricopa

County. That’s saying something since Maricopa County is the fastest-growing county in the nation. Buckeye’s population is up 60 percent in the past decade and more than 7 percent in just the past year. Surprise and Avondale each grew by about 2.5 percent over the past year, and many other West Valley cities topped the average statewide population growth of 1.6 percent. The good news is we’re not just getting more people; we’re adding jobs and building infrastructure so families can thrive. I want that growth to continue. That’s why I’ve asked my colleagues to stand with me and approve a new moratorium on government rules and regulations so that we are working with businesses rather than against them. I believe we can do this while also protecting public health, safety and the environment. I’m also encouraging our departments to expand their outreach efforts to local vendors, so we get a greater variety of bids for county contracts. When more vendors bid, residents get better service and we can keep more jobs local. However, growth can have consequences, as anyone who commutes with me on the I-10 knows. That’s why I support the work being done by my colleague, Jack Sellers, and others to create a comprehensive regional transportation plan to replace Prop 400. We need a plan that considers the impact of future growth, factors in new technology and balances it all with the diverse needs of our people, many of whom live here because they like a more rural lifestyle. Protecting open space is another way we can improve quality of life at a time of incredible growth. A recent

study of our parks’ economic impact conducted by Arizona State University found that every dollar invested in the county park system returns $1.42 in economic impact to the region. This year, we’ll begin phase one of the new 71,000-acre Vulture Mountain Recreation Area near Wickenburg. When the park is completed, it will have the county’s first formal off-highway vehicle recreation area and provide quality amenities and training opportunities for this popular sport. Maricopa County needs well-managed open space like our regional parks now and for future generations. Working with our Parks Department has been one of the great pleasures of my service on the board and will be a priority of mine in 2020. With all that said, I still believe the most important thing we’ll do as a county in 2020 is to plan and run elections. The Board of Supervisors partnered with the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office last year to ensure joint oversight of elections not seen in the county in more than 50 years. The board now oversees election-day activities and emergency voting, while the recorder is responsible for voter registration and early voting. These duties align with what is written state law. This year, the Board of Supervisors invested millions of dollars in new technology to ensure ballots are counted accurately and as quickly as possible. In recent weeks, we’ve been able to show this new equipment to state legislators, so they understand how it works. The goal with any piece of technology should be to improve outcomes, and I believe the new machines will serve voters better than the outdated vote-tabulation equipment we previously had.

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Knowing when and where to vote has never been easier. The Maricopa County Elections Department recently launched a new website which provides a personalized dashboard so you have everything you need to know to make your vote count at your fingertips. BeBallotReady.Vote allows you to make changes to personal voter information, learn which upcoming elections you’re eligible to vote in, find voting locations, sign up for text alerts, explore the new ballot style (you’ll fill in ovals instead of arrows) and much more. In short, it’s a one-stop shop for voters unlike anything the county has provided before. Remember, the Presidential Preference Election (PPE) is March 17. Only registered Democrats are eligible to vote. Since this election is not a primary, registered independents are not eligible to participate. The Republican and Libertarian parties have chosen not to hold a preference election. You can read about our plan to inform and support voters in the PPE by visiting Maricopa.gov/2020PPEPlan. And don’t worry. Everyone will have a chance to cast their vote (multiple times) in 2020. I am doing everything in my power to make sure the experience is a good one for all voters in Maricopa County, whether you vote early or on election day, in person or by mail. Government’s role should be to build communities where individuals have the opportunity to create a high-quality life knowing that their government is spending their money in responsible ways that enhance health and safety and give residents a voice in the process. The year 2020 is going to be a great year for Maricopa County. Thank you for the opportunity to serve.

Clint Hickman, District 4, Chairman Maricopa County Board of Supervisors www.maricopa.gov/dist4 (602) 506-7642

Maracay will unveil 118 homesites at Spur Cross in Queen Creek REAL ESTATE | 5 Feb | AZ BUSINESS MAGAZINE Maracay will celebrate the highly-anticipated grand opening of two new East Valley neighborhoods – Pathfinder North and Pathfinder South – both situated inside Spur Cross, a master-planned community located in Queen Creek, just northeast of Signal Butte and Ocotillo roads, on Saturday, Feb. 8. The grand opening event will include a neighborhood gathering from 12-3 p.m. and feature a catered lunch and refreshments. Prospective home shoppers are encouraged to attend the family-friendly event and explore the community with one of Maracay’s New Home Advisors to learn all about the neighborhood and its amenities. Boasting the largest homesites (up to one-third of an acre) available at Spur Cross, Pathfinder North will offer 65 oversized homesites comfortably distributed throughout the neighborhood for added privacy and additional elbow room between homes. The quiet, gated enclave will feature four all-single-story Flex Design® floor plans, two of which will include detached RV garages as a standard offering, providing additional space for all of the outdoor toys that active, growing families enjoy—or the ideal space for a specialized hobby. The homes at Pathfinder North will range from approximately 3,220 to 4,287 square feet and will feature carefully crafted

living spaces with contemporary characteristics, open areas and a variety of structural options, including an executive kitchen, an extended master bedroom and an enhanced indoor-outdoor living environment, among many other choices. Meanwhile, Pathfinder South will offer the second-largest homesites available at Spur Cross, measuring up to over one-quarter of an acre at many of the 53 available sites. The neighborhood will feature four distinct, all-single-story Flex Design floor plans, with attached RV garages as an included offering in two plans, and plenty of indoor-outdoor space for all plans, allowing families to stretch out and play to their hearts’ content. Ranging from approximately 2,695 to 3,679 square feet, the homes at Pathfinder South will also offer customizable options, including generation suites and casitas with separate entrances. “When Arizona homebuyers choose a home at our Pathfinder neighborhoods at Spur Cross, they’re not only moving to one of the Valley’s most sought after regions, but also getting a beautifully designed, premium home that features some pretty special Flex Design® options including a detached cabana and an RV garage option with a mini-split AC unit ,” Andy Warren, Maracay’s president, said. “And, the benefits don’t end there. In fact, Spur Cross features a number of parks, a community pool, multiple walking trails and of course easy access to iconic Arizona destinations like San Tan Mountain Regional Park.” The entire Spur Cross master-planned community offers a wide selection of modern amenities that today’s homebuyers love. Residents enjoy the splendor-filled playground where they can relax, barbecue and mingle with neighbors under the

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ramada; while active families and weekend warriors can explore the neighborhood via a multi-use trail system or challenge their neighbors to a friendly game of basketball or sand volleyball on the courts. When the sun is shining, which is nearly every day in the beautiful Town of Queen Creek, residents can spread out a blanket for a relaxing picnic at the 7-acre park or cool off at the community pool and its 2,280-square-foot cabana. Residents flock to this region of the Valley for its multitude of shopping, dining and high-performing schools, all just a short drive from Spur Cross. The buzzing community is located in the heart of Queen Creek, where residents enjoy a convenient mix of city perks and rural comforts. Nearby iconic attractions include San Tan Mountain Regional Park, Schnepf Farms and the Queen Creek Olive Mill. The community is also within close proximity to major East Valley employment centers and popular amenities, including Seville Golf & Country Club, the Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center, Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre, movie theaters, parks, and much more. The homes at Pathfinder North and Pathfinder South will be registered with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), a third-party rating system that verifies compliance across several areas addressing sustainability, with the goal of earning the LEED® Certified designation. Designed to use 30–50 percent less energy than typical homes, each home will meet the EPA’s Indoor airPLUS specifications and will feature water-efficient fixtures, LED lighting, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, Energy Star® appliances, tankless water heaters, and Wi-Fi-enabled, programmable thermostats. Homes will also be Energy Star® certified and feature the latest in smart home technology and

Maracay’s proprietary LivingSmart® program for maximum performance and cost efficiency. For more information about Spur Cross, please contact Maracay’s New Homes Specialist Team at NewHomes@MaracayHomes.com or by calling (480) 401-5620.

Things to Do in the Valley – Feb. 6-12 Posted Tuesday, February 4, 2020 11:55 pm Daily Independent Below are entertainment options around the Valley for the week of Feb. 5-12. Event details are subject to change. Feb. 6 - SCOTTSDALE: Western Week Gold Palette ArtWalk - Featuring live music and artists’ demonstrations, a multitude of traditional and modern Western artwork will be on display throughout the Scottsdale Arts District’s numerous galleries during this Western Week kick-off event. This ArtWalk recognizes Scottsdale’s Wild West roots and its wide range of historical culture with Western-themed entertainment and more. Free. 6:30-9:30 p.m. https://scottsdalegalleries.com Feb. 7-9 - PHOENIX: 30th Annual Chinese Week’s Culture and Cuisine Festival – Year of the Rat - Margaret T. Hance Park (East). Enjoy Chinese cuisine, arts & crafts, Chinese calligraphy, dragon and lion dances, Chinese costume photo booth, folk and traditional dances, mah-jongg booth, martial arts demos, musical performances, Chinese Tea Ceremony, photo exhibit, Koi-fish exhibit, chopstick pick up contest, children’s hands-on activities and souvenirs. Free. Friday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 pm., Beer Garden, Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

http://www.phoenixchineseweek.org Feb. 7-9 - SCOTTSDALE: Worldwide Women's Film Festival – Harkins Shea 14. The Worldwide Women's Film Festival educates, supports, and empowers women in the collaborative endeavor of filmmaking while we shine a light on women's stories and diverse experiences. 602-525-3012 or http://www.wwfilmfestival.com Feb. 7-9 - SCOTTSDALE: 9th Annual Waterfront Fine Art & Wine Festival - Scottsdale Waterfront. More than 125 juried fine artists will line the banks of the Scottsdale Waterfront, along with wineries and live musical entertainment. $3. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 480-837-5637 or https://thunderbirdartists.com Feb. 7-23 - PHOENIX: Trouble in Mind – Helen K. Mason Performing Arts Center. As the 1950s draw to a close, a newly integrated theatre company prepares to open a progressive, but misguided new play on Broadway. This troubled production of a fictional anti-lynching play will feature renowned actress Wileta Mayer. 602-258-8129 or http://new-wp.blacktheatretroupe.org Feb. 7-23 - PHOENIX: The Princess and the Pea – Valley Youth Theatre. Princess Astrid has been lured from her home by Gustav the Troll as a prospective bride for the bookish Prince Eric. Although this feisty princess has no interest in either marriage or princes, she spiritedly takes a series of tests to prove that she is "a real princess." Despite the plotting of the oily courtier, Osric, Astrid and Eric are drawn to each other out of respect for the other's stubborn individualism. However, before there may be a proper happy ending, Astrid must pass a final test. $20.

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602-253-8188 or https://www.vyt.com Feb. 8 - FOUNTAIN HILLS: 20th Annual Pemberton Trail 50K – McDowell Mountain Regional Park. Pemberton Trail 50k and 25k races are run completely on trails in the beautiful McDowell Mountain Regional Park near Fountain Hills, Arizona. With gently rolling hills (no big climbs) you might set a PR here! With our great volunteers, good food, mild weather and fun, low-key vibe, it’s always a great day in the desert. http://www.bquickrunning.com Feb. 8 - FOUNTAIN HILLS: 7th Annual Concours in the Hills High-Performance and Classic Car Show - Fountain Park. In 2019 the show attracted 941 cars and five helicopters including two USMC attack helicopters. The show is not a formal “white gloves” concours but rather a fun and relaxed car show open to all makes and models. The cars are organized by brand to encourage communication between owners. The show is supported by the leading car clubs of Arizona, both import and domestic. Free. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. https://www.concoursinthehills.org Feb. 8 - MESA: Mesa-Phoenix Marathon – Mesa Riverview. Want to go for a run? With the right training and commitment, you can find yourself fully prepared at the starting line of a 10K, half marathon or the full 26.2 miles! Want to get the whole family involved? Our free 1K fun run will get the kids in on the action too. $0-125. 6 a.m. https://thephoenixmarathon.com Feb. 8 - PHOENIX: ASU Open Door 2020 – Downtown Phoenix – Once a year, ASU invites the local community, adults and children of all ages, to experience ASU and discover why it was named one of the most innovative universities in

the nation for four years in a row. ASU Open Door welcomes visitors to our four campus locations, allowing visitors to explore spaces that are normally closed to the public. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in hundreds of interactive, hands-on activities and talk to students, faculty and staff. Free. 1-5 p.m. 480-965-1236 or https://opendoor.asu.edu Feb. 8 - PHOENIX: 20th Annual Strong Beer Festival - Steele Indian School Park. Official launch of Arizona Craft Beer Week and Arizona’s premier craft beer festival. Focusing on beers “strong” in flavor and character from across the country. Draws visitors from across the state and country to Arizona. Featuring strong beers, also offering tastes of other craft beer types and styles, music and food vendors. More than 75 breweries. http://arizonabeerweek.com Feb. 8 - SCOTTSDALE: 67th Annual Scottsdale Parada Del Sol Parade & Trails End Festival - A community celebration attracting more than 30,000 people and showcases the history, school groups, bands, live musical entertainment and shopping. Experience Arizona's old west entertainment. Starts at Indian School Rd to Oak St. on Scottsdale Rd. Free. 9 a.m., followed by Trail's End Festival. http://ScottsdaleParade.com Feb. 8-9 - PHOENIX: 30th Annual World Championship Hoop Dance Contest - Heard Museum. Top American Indian and Canadian First Nation hoop dancers vie for the title of World Champion Hoop Dancer, amazing performances of the intertribal hoop dance where each dancers weaves in aspects of his or her distinct tradition and culture, more than $30,000 in prize money, fry bread & other American Indian foods. $7.50-18. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 602-

252-8848 or https://heard.org/event/hoop Feb. 8-9 - SCOTTSDALE: Arizona Indian Festival – Scottsdale Civic Center Park. This two-day family-friendly event features Arizona tribes sharing cultural experiences, traditional dwellings, art demonstrations, Native American storytelling, performances, music and contemporary entertainment, an artisan market, Tribal and Tourism Expo, food trucks and fry bread stands, giveaways, raffles and kids’ activities. This event is a collaboration between the City of Scottsdale and the majority of Indian tribes in Arizona. Free. Sat 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. https://arizonaindiantourism.org Feb. 8-9 - SCOTTSDALE: 9th Annual Street Eats Food Truck Festival - Salt River Fields. All of the food trucks offer $2 samples of their homemade treats. Plus, between bites you can enjoy live music, food eating contests, and a massive kids zone for a fun weekend celebration. $12-15. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. http://SaltRiverFields.com or http://www.streeteatsaz.com Feb. 9 - MESA: Salt River Brass: All That Jazz – Mesa Arts Center. Picture 36 brass and percussion virtuosi crafting the upbeat brilliance of a military band, the full-throated sonorities of a symphony orchestra and the warm intimate sounds of a chamber group. This is the Salt River Brass, with the versatility to program everything from light classics and marches to show tunes, folk melodies and jazz standards. 3 p.m. 480-644-6500 or https://mesaartscenter.com Feb. 9-23 - SCOTTSDALE: 24th Annual Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival - Valley wide at three Harkins Theaters: Shea 14 in Scottsdale; Harkins Park West 14 in Peoria; and Harkins Tempe

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Marketplace 16 in Tempe. Films screen across the Valley at 3 and 7 p.m. Films aimed at both younger and older audiences. 602-753-9366 or https://www.gpjff.org

Valentine's Day in Phoenix: Fun ideas for couples and singles 6:00 a.m. MST Feb. 4, 2020

'Galentine's Day' Aerial Yoga | Experience aerial yoga with your closest friends, or perhaps meet some new ones, at a special "Galentine's Day" class at Elevate Yoga & Wellness. | Details: 5:45 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13. Elevate Yoga & Wellness, 1001 N. Third Ave., Phoenix. $28 for studio members, $40 for nonmembers, $50 at the door. 602-456-2762, www.wellnessliving.com.

Valentines Super Love Jam | Soul trio The Temprees and vocal duo Peaches and Herb (the artists behind the famous "Reunited,") are set to take the stage at the Art Laboe Valentine's Super Love Jam Concert. | Details: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. From $30.50. 602-379-2000, www.talkingstickresortarena.com.

Rattlesnake Crawl | An array of live rattlesnakes will be on display at Cave Creek Regional Park. | Details: 2-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Cave Creek Regional Park, 37900 N. Cave Creek Parkway. $7 per vehicle. 623-4650431, www.maricopacountyparks.net/events/2020-rattlesnake-crawl.

Valentine’s Day at Taliesin West | Make a date out of visiting a national historic landmark nestled in the McDowell Mountains in Scottsdale. |Details: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Taliesin West, 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale. $65. 480-860-2700, franklloydwright.org.

Valentine's with a View |At the "Valentine's with a View" event, four renowned local chefs will serve a five-course, chocolate-themed meal. | Details: 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. The Stewart, 800 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. $159 for dinner, $199 for dinner and wine pairings. www.eventbrite.com.

Valentine's Day Chat with a Coroner | Spend your Valentine's night hearing stories of cannibalism, murder and other deadly examples of relationships gone wrong. | Details: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Valley Garden Center, 1809 N.

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15th Ave., Phoenix. $25. 602-314 4346, curiousnatureshop.com.

Love in the Hills| If you've already found your partner and are looking for a way to refresh the love, renew your vows at Fountain Park in Fountain Hills. No paperwork is needed.|Details: 2-6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Fountain Park, 12925 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. Free. 480-837 8168, www.samifinejewelry.com.

Ballet Arizona's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' | Choreographed by Ib Andersen, the ballet will feature "fun-loving characters, quarreling fairies and mistaken identities," according to the ballet's website. | Details: Six performances Feb. 13-16. Symphony Hall Phoenix, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. $34-$168. 602-381-1096, balletaz.org.