(Lyn's note: Please feel free to send us any pictures you'd like included. Here's the link to this week's Pictures of the Week.)
http://carefreeazbusinesses.com/pictures-of-the-week-2922.html
The rest of the photos are of our friend's adorable baby girl.
http://carefreeazbusinesses.com/pictures-of-the-week-2922.html
The rest of the photos are of our friend's adorable baby girl.
Photo by Phil Corso
Here are your bonus rounds from Herbert.
http://aneyeonyouproduction.com/11521-sunset.html
Here are your bonus rounds from Herbert.
http://aneyeonyouproduction.com/11521-sunset.html
Photos by Herbert Hitchon
Here is the link to the Maricopa County & Rural/Metro emergency
preparedness presentation from 6/27/19. This is good info to keep saved
on your computer.
Emergency Preparedness Presentation by R/M & County: 6/27/19
http://carefreetruth2.com/carefree-truth-763.html
Had a productive morning collecting signatures Town of Carefree for the petition to get back on this year‘s election ballot.
A couple things:
1. serving on town council is a civic duty and a privilege, and not a paid position, as it is 100% volunteer
2. cursing at someone when you don’t agree with their philosophy is never acceptable, even though people are also well within their right to say whatever they want, just don’t vote for me if you disagree, or spend the time to become informed and consider representing your community like I do. If re-elected, it will still be my job to represent your best interest for keeping our community the best that it can be. Let’s be better.
All in all a positive day!! Looking forward to getting back out the next few days and continuing to chat with neighbors. Still need signatures, and if you are a Carefree resident and a registered voter, would appreciate yours!
Vince D'Aliesio
Here is the link to the Maricopa County & Rural/Metro emergency
preparedness presentation from 6/27/19. This is good info to keep saved
on your computer.
Emergency Preparedness Presentation by R/M & County: 6/27/19
http://carefreetruth2.com/carefree-truth-763.html
Had a productive morning collecting signatures Town of Carefree for the petition to get back on this year‘s election ballot.
A couple things:
1. serving on town council is a civic duty and a privilege, and not a paid position, as it is 100% volunteer
2. cursing at someone when you don’t agree with their philosophy is never acceptable, even though people are also well within their right to say whatever they want, just don’t vote for me if you disagree, or spend the time to become informed and consider representing your community like I do. If re-elected, it will still be my job to represent your best interest for keeping our community the best that it can be. Let’s be better.
All in all a positive day!! Looking forward to getting back out the next few days and continuing to chat with neighbors. Still need signatures, and if you are a Carefree resident and a registered voter, would appreciate yours!
Vince D'Aliesio
BHOA Board Legal Strategy Fails
New Ruling a Comprehensive Defeat
In an apparently devastating loss, today the Arizona Court of Appeals accepted jurisdiction and denied relief to the BHOA in a Special Action regarding the eminent domain case between the Town and the BHOA. This appears to put a practical end to the Board’s attempt to stop the taking of our common land and the construction of a water reservoir for the benefit of Carefree residents to our west.
The Board had taken the position that the condemnation of BHOA common property by the Town of Carefree was unconstitutional because the condemnation had been made by the Town for the benefit of the Water Company and its parent the UCFD, who were not entitled to immediate possession.
On the contrary, found the appellate court. No relief was granted “because under A.R.S. § 48-708(B) and Article 13, Section 7, of the Arizona Constitution, the district (that is, the UCFD) had an independent right to immediate possession under § 12-1116(H) and Article 2, Section 17.”
It would appear futile to take this argument to a higher court. A reversal on the substance of the appellate ruling by the Arizona Supreme Court seems unlikely and would only restore the previous situation, under which the Town was already entitled to construct a water reservoir.
On a related topic, this ruling appears to render pointless the initiative effort that would ask Carefree voters to prohibit the Town from condemnation without first obtaining a citizen vote, as the appellate court has ruled the UCFD could condemn with identical effect.
Finally, many residents have read the Board’s recent Statement regarding the lawsuit. The arguments made are now revealed to have been irrelevant to the actions they were taking. In addition, we believe those arguments contained unsubstantiated conspiracy theories and outright misrepresentations that impugned the character of Boulders residents, Town officials, and members of the public. Expect further reporting on that topic.
Carefree Unity
New Ruling a Comprehensive Defeat
In an apparently devastating loss, today the Arizona Court of Appeals accepted jurisdiction and denied relief to the BHOA in a Special Action regarding the eminent domain case between the Town and the BHOA. This appears to put a practical end to the Board’s attempt to stop the taking of our common land and the construction of a water reservoir for the benefit of Carefree residents to our west.
The Board had taken the position that the condemnation of BHOA common property by the Town of Carefree was unconstitutional because the condemnation had been made by the Town for the benefit of the Water Company and its parent the UCFD, who were not entitled to immediate possession.
On the contrary, found the appellate court. No relief was granted “because under A.R.S. § 48-708(B) and Article 13, Section 7, of the Arizona Constitution, the district (that is, the UCFD) had an independent right to immediate possession under § 12-1116(H) and Article 2, Section 17.”
It would appear futile to take this argument to a higher court. A reversal on the substance of the appellate ruling by the Arizona Supreme Court seems unlikely and would only restore the previous situation, under which the Town was already entitled to construct a water reservoir.
On a related topic, this ruling appears to render pointless the initiative effort that would ask Carefree voters to prohibit the Town from condemnation without first obtaining a citizen vote, as the appellate court has ruled the UCFD could condemn with identical effect.
Finally, many residents have read the Board’s recent Statement regarding the lawsuit. The arguments made are now revealed to have been irrelevant to the actions they were taking. In addition, we believe those arguments contained unsubstantiated conspiracy theories and outright misrepresentations that impugned the character of Boulders residents, Town officials, and members of the public. Expect further reporting on that topic.
Carefree Unity
New post on Carefree Unity
Town Attorney Cautions Board by Carefree Unity"These are the real facts. Unvarnished. Provable. Truthful."
An attorney for the Town of Carefree has contacted the North Boulders Homeowners Association (BHOA) attorney in response to the recent community-wide email titled “Additional Statement by the BHOA Board of Directors Regarding the Town of Carefree's Lawsuit Against our Association”.
This is not the first time the Town has sent such a letter in response to statements from the current Board, but it is the first time that Carefree Unity has been able to read or republish one. The Town's statement is very direct, and it calls out long-running and apparently false Board narratives including the claim that the water tank would benefit a possible resort development across the street (at the corner of Tom Darlington & Carefree Highway). It also provides a robust rebuttal to a variety of personal attacks made against Town officials and others.
Carefree Unity strongly recommends that anyone trying to develop a fact-based opinion on the water tank issue as well as anyone wishing to cast an informed vote in the upcoming BHOA Board elections read the Town's letter completely and carefully.
Here is the full text of the letter (with attorney contact information removed):
Craig A. Morgan
Sherman & Howard L.L.C.
Direct Dial Number: xxx.xxx.xxxx
E-mail: xxxxxxx@xxxxxxxxxxxxx.com
February 3, 2022
VIA E-MAIL
Beth Mulcahy
Mulcahy Law Firm, P.C.
3001 E. Camelback Road Suite 130
Phoenix, Arizona 85016
E-Mail: xxxx@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx.com
RE: THE BOULDERS HOA’S “ADDITIONAL STATEMENT BY THE BHOA BOARD OF DIRECTORS REGARDING THE TOWN OF CAREFREE’S LAWSUIT AGAINST OUR ASSOCIATION” (THE “JANUARY 2022 STATEMENT”)
Dear Beth:
As you know, my name is Craig A. Morgan, I am a lawyer with Sherman & Howard L.L.C., and this firm represents the Town and its Mayor, Les Peterson, and other town officials in their official capacities.
Our understanding remains that your law firm represents the Boulders HOA generally, so I am sending this correspondence to you as the Boulders HOA’s legal counsel. We expect that you will forward this correspondence to your client.
On January 31, 2022, the Boulders HOA posted the January 2022 Statement. As with some of the Boulders HOA’s prior publications, this latest publication is packed with inaccuracies, innuendos, and dangerous defamatory accusations. The purpose of this correspondence is to set the record straight and again caution your client to refrain from willfully making false and misleading statements about those individuals referenced in the January 2022 Statement.
Since we have already corresponded about the law prohibiting the defaming of the Town’s public servants, I will not recount that law again here. Instead, I will directly address the January 2022 Statement and its myriad of inaccuracies.
It seems clear to the Town that the January 2022 Statement is motivated by the Boulders HOA’s (or those aligned with its confusing and selfish agenda) repeated losses in courts throughout Maricopa County. Indeed, the Boulders HOA and those aligned with its agenda have wholly failed to obtain relief from two Superior Court judges and six appellate judges (who have rejected emergency stays prohibiting construction). Given the legality of the Town’s effort to bring much needed and updated water service to a thousand of the Town’s citizens to ensure their health and safety for years to come, its seems the Boulders HOA has elected to wage a campaign of misinformation so as to manipulate the narrative – perhaps to justify the thousands of HOA dollars misspent to prevent life sustaining water from reaching the Town’s citizens.
The following points are worth clarification:
1. The provision of water to a thousand Town residents is a “legitimate public purpose” because the health and safety of all of the Town’s residents is and will always be of paramount concern.
2. The Boulders HOA directors are not qualified to meaningfully judge or question the Town’s effort to address Town-wide issues affecting all residents. Residents at the Boulders represent about 15% of the Town’s population. Those residents matter. But so do the remaining 85% of the Town’s residents. The Town must do what is in the best interest of all residents, not just the vocal few who are wary of the construction of a modest water tank in an open area where doing so is the most effective and economical option for all Town taxpayers.
3. The Town has never “admitted” to anyone, including “bond purchasers”, that the site at issue is not needed to upgrade water services to the Boulder’s neighbors in need. The site at issue has always been the most optimal site for purposes of system performance, affordability, and minimal neighborhood disruption. No other possible location exceeds this site in those metrics. What the Town has said, from the beginning, is that there are other much less optimal locations that could be used to provide these critical water services. Any other possible location would be more costly, perform less optimally, and require weekly entry into an actual occupied neighborhood for routine maintenance and repairs – all of which would require a rate increase for all of the water system’s customers to accomplish. You can see why any other option, on balance, would not be preferred when weighing the needs of the Town as a whole (as opposed to a vocal minority of a 15% minority of residents who want to preserve a small patch on otherwise untouched open space).
4. There have been studies supporting the Town’s need for the site. To state that “[t]he Town admitted no such study exists” is simply false. Engineering studies were disclosed. And additional studies were performed. But those additional studies contain proprietary, confidential and highly sensitive infrastructure information that, for purposes of health, safety, and security, cannot be made generally available. To allow them to be openly wielded would place this very critical infrastructure at risk of sabotage or other unlawful activity.
5. The new site will not provide water to, or benefit, anything located on the corner of Tom Darlington Drive and the Carefree Highway. The water pressure from the site is simply too low for use on the corner of Tom Darlington Drive and the Carefree Highway. All of this water will be used for “Neighborhood A” and system wide fire flow. We know of no other way to convince the Boulders HOA of this truth and the Boulders HOA has certainly failed to provide any evidence supporting its wild supposition to the contrary.
6. Accusing the Town and its public servant agents of engaging in “pervasive secrecy” is nonsense. Secrecy about what precisely? The town is literally litigating these issues (thus far successfully) publicly in court. These issues have been discussed in open meetings. These issues have been made as public as possible.
7. The Town considered alternative sites. But as explained above, and repeatedly in filings and at public Town meetings, the site at issue is the most optimal site.
8. The Town and its legal counsel are not “attempt[ing an] end run around Arizona’s constitution, willing to present the [T]own’s false narrative to the courts and willing to harass [the Boulders HOA] with baseless allegations of defamation ….” The Boulders HOA failed to prevail in court. The Boulders HOA at one point removed defamatory statements from its website after being made aware of those statements. If the Boulders HOA has any evidence supporting these defamatory allegations, then we are confident that evidence would have long ago been presented. Yet, nothing has been presented (nor ever will be, because none exists).
9. The assertion that “the current town council has advanced plans to develop every patch of open land” is inaccurate. We understand that 2% - 2.5% of the Town’s landmass is zoned for commercial development. Compare that to other similar communities like Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, and Fountain Hills, which we understand exceed 15%. Moreover, about 80% - 85% of the Town’s landmass is already built out as residential. The Town owns precious little real estate. Any efforts to rezone land will be initiated by those parties who seek to do so and subject to the same rigorous and open approval processes every person or business who seeks to rezone property within the Town must undergo. The Town simply has advanced no such plans and the Boulders HOA has proffered no proof to the contrary.
10. Despite the Boulders HOA’s inaccurate contrary narrative, the Town cannot unilaterally condemn property on a whim or for purely economic purposes. We urge the Boulders HOA to consult its legal counsel about the limits of condemnation authority. Alternatively, the Boulders HOA can review the briefs the Town has filed in its thus far successful condemnation action for an accurate recitation of the law of condemnation as applied to this situation.
11. Accusations of “conflicts of interest, graft and cronyism” are unequivocally false.1 If the Boulders HOA has evidence supporting such wild defamatory statements, then the Boulders HOA would have laid that evidence on the table. Yet to date all that has been supplied are accusations and innuendo without proof.
12. The Town has no clue what the references to “extraordinary behavior of those in” the Boulders HOA “who are connected to the [M]ayor” and “e-mail phishing and a physical threat” are related to. The Town certainly has done no such thing nor encouraged others to do so. The Town unequivocally denounces uncivil or unlawful discourse. If the Boulders HOA is receiving harsh criticism from others, then perhaps the Boulders HOA should examine those circumstances internally before ascribing ulterior motives to others.
13. The Boulders HOA’s baseless and factually unsupported cries of having been “swindled and fleeced”, of constitutional violations, and of “a violation of criminal statutes” are laughable given the Boulders HOA’s (a) track record thus far in court, and (b) failure to present any evidence overcoming the true public necessity of providing reliable and potable water to a thousand Town residents. The site’s owner will receive just compensation for any condemnation. The Town commissioned and presented an Appraisal from a qualified appraiser related to the site. The Boulders HOA did so, but once it realized the appraisal would essentially comport with the Town’s own appraisal, the Boulders HOA scrambled, fired its appraiser, and concluded that its own appraisal would not be “robust enough” (translation: favorable for the Boulders HOA’s narrative). Again, where is the evidence supporting all these baseless lies?
These are the real facts. Unvarnished. Provable. Truthful. We urge the Boulders HOA and its members to stop defaming the Town’s hard-working public servants. We urge the Boulders HOA and its members to cease spewing defamatory, bitter, irrational accusations that are hurtful and provable as false. In that regard, those affected by the Boulders HOA’s defamatory actions, including the Town’s public servants, reserve all rights and remedies they as victims may have at law or in equity. That said, the purpose of this correspondence is to set the record straight so that those not aligned with the Boulders HOA’s vocal minority are apprised of the truth. We are confident that the rest of the Town, and many members of the Boulders HOA, will quickly dismiss the rhetoric and false narrative and conclude that the Town and its public servants are doing, as they always have, what is best for the Town.
If you desire to discuss this matter, please do not hesitate to call me.
Very truly yours,
Craig Morgan
Craig A. Morgan
1 Graft is a form of political corruption involving the misdirection of public money by a public official for a private benefit. This statement as it applies to the Mayor or any other Town public servant is provably false and grossly defamatory. I remain astonished someone would be so callous with such an accusation without providing proof.
Carefree Unity | February 5, 2022 at 7:53 pm |
Town Attorney Cautions Board by Carefree Unity"These are the real facts. Unvarnished. Provable. Truthful."
An attorney for the Town of Carefree has contacted the North Boulders Homeowners Association (BHOA) attorney in response to the recent community-wide email titled “Additional Statement by the BHOA Board of Directors Regarding the Town of Carefree's Lawsuit Against our Association”.
This is not the first time the Town has sent such a letter in response to statements from the current Board, but it is the first time that Carefree Unity has been able to read or republish one. The Town's statement is very direct, and it calls out long-running and apparently false Board narratives including the claim that the water tank would benefit a possible resort development across the street (at the corner of Tom Darlington & Carefree Highway). It also provides a robust rebuttal to a variety of personal attacks made against Town officials and others.
Carefree Unity strongly recommends that anyone trying to develop a fact-based opinion on the water tank issue as well as anyone wishing to cast an informed vote in the upcoming BHOA Board elections read the Town's letter completely and carefully.
Here is the full text of the letter (with attorney contact information removed):
Craig A. Morgan
Sherman & Howard L.L.C.
Direct Dial Number: xxx.xxx.xxxx
E-mail: xxxxxxx@xxxxxxxxxxxxx.com
February 3, 2022
VIA E-MAIL
Beth Mulcahy
Mulcahy Law Firm, P.C.
3001 E. Camelback Road Suite 130
Phoenix, Arizona 85016
E-Mail: xxxx@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx.com
RE: THE BOULDERS HOA’S “ADDITIONAL STATEMENT BY THE BHOA BOARD OF DIRECTORS REGARDING THE TOWN OF CAREFREE’S LAWSUIT AGAINST OUR ASSOCIATION” (THE “JANUARY 2022 STATEMENT”)
Dear Beth:
As you know, my name is Craig A. Morgan, I am a lawyer with Sherman & Howard L.L.C., and this firm represents the Town and its Mayor, Les Peterson, and other town officials in their official capacities.
Our understanding remains that your law firm represents the Boulders HOA generally, so I am sending this correspondence to you as the Boulders HOA’s legal counsel. We expect that you will forward this correspondence to your client.
On January 31, 2022, the Boulders HOA posted the January 2022 Statement. As with some of the Boulders HOA’s prior publications, this latest publication is packed with inaccuracies, innuendos, and dangerous defamatory accusations. The purpose of this correspondence is to set the record straight and again caution your client to refrain from willfully making false and misleading statements about those individuals referenced in the January 2022 Statement.
Since we have already corresponded about the law prohibiting the defaming of the Town’s public servants, I will not recount that law again here. Instead, I will directly address the January 2022 Statement and its myriad of inaccuracies.
It seems clear to the Town that the January 2022 Statement is motivated by the Boulders HOA’s (or those aligned with its confusing and selfish agenda) repeated losses in courts throughout Maricopa County. Indeed, the Boulders HOA and those aligned with its agenda have wholly failed to obtain relief from two Superior Court judges and six appellate judges (who have rejected emergency stays prohibiting construction). Given the legality of the Town’s effort to bring much needed and updated water service to a thousand of the Town’s citizens to ensure their health and safety for years to come, its seems the Boulders HOA has elected to wage a campaign of misinformation so as to manipulate the narrative – perhaps to justify the thousands of HOA dollars misspent to prevent life sustaining water from reaching the Town’s citizens.
The following points are worth clarification:
1. The provision of water to a thousand Town residents is a “legitimate public purpose” because the health and safety of all of the Town’s residents is and will always be of paramount concern.
2. The Boulders HOA directors are not qualified to meaningfully judge or question the Town’s effort to address Town-wide issues affecting all residents. Residents at the Boulders represent about 15% of the Town’s population. Those residents matter. But so do the remaining 85% of the Town’s residents. The Town must do what is in the best interest of all residents, not just the vocal few who are wary of the construction of a modest water tank in an open area where doing so is the most effective and economical option for all Town taxpayers.
3. The Town has never “admitted” to anyone, including “bond purchasers”, that the site at issue is not needed to upgrade water services to the Boulder’s neighbors in need. The site at issue has always been the most optimal site for purposes of system performance, affordability, and minimal neighborhood disruption. No other possible location exceeds this site in those metrics. What the Town has said, from the beginning, is that there are other much less optimal locations that could be used to provide these critical water services. Any other possible location would be more costly, perform less optimally, and require weekly entry into an actual occupied neighborhood for routine maintenance and repairs – all of which would require a rate increase for all of the water system’s customers to accomplish. You can see why any other option, on balance, would not be preferred when weighing the needs of the Town as a whole (as opposed to a vocal minority of a 15% minority of residents who want to preserve a small patch on otherwise untouched open space).
4. There have been studies supporting the Town’s need for the site. To state that “[t]he Town admitted no such study exists” is simply false. Engineering studies were disclosed. And additional studies were performed. But those additional studies contain proprietary, confidential and highly sensitive infrastructure information that, for purposes of health, safety, and security, cannot be made generally available. To allow them to be openly wielded would place this very critical infrastructure at risk of sabotage or other unlawful activity.
5. The new site will not provide water to, or benefit, anything located on the corner of Tom Darlington Drive and the Carefree Highway. The water pressure from the site is simply too low for use on the corner of Tom Darlington Drive and the Carefree Highway. All of this water will be used for “Neighborhood A” and system wide fire flow. We know of no other way to convince the Boulders HOA of this truth and the Boulders HOA has certainly failed to provide any evidence supporting its wild supposition to the contrary.
6. Accusing the Town and its public servant agents of engaging in “pervasive secrecy” is nonsense. Secrecy about what precisely? The town is literally litigating these issues (thus far successfully) publicly in court. These issues have been discussed in open meetings. These issues have been made as public as possible.
7. The Town considered alternative sites. But as explained above, and repeatedly in filings and at public Town meetings, the site at issue is the most optimal site.
8. The Town and its legal counsel are not “attempt[ing an] end run around Arizona’s constitution, willing to present the [T]own’s false narrative to the courts and willing to harass [the Boulders HOA] with baseless allegations of defamation ….” The Boulders HOA failed to prevail in court. The Boulders HOA at one point removed defamatory statements from its website after being made aware of those statements. If the Boulders HOA has any evidence supporting these defamatory allegations, then we are confident that evidence would have long ago been presented. Yet, nothing has been presented (nor ever will be, because none exists).
9. The assertion that “the current town council has advanced plans to develop every patch of open land” is inaccurate. We understand that 2% - 2.5% of the Town’s landmass is zoned for commercial development. Compare that to other similar communities like Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, and Fountain Hills, which we understand exceed 15%. Moreover, about 80% - 85% of the Town’s landmass is already built out as residential. The Town owns precious little real estate. Any efforts to rezone land will be initiated by those parties who seek to do so and subject to the same rigorous and open approval processes every person or business who seeks to rezone property within the Town must undergo. The Town simply has advanced no such plans and the Boulders HOA has proffered no proof to the contrary.
10. Despite the Boulders HOA’s inaccurate contrary narrative, the Town cannot unilaterally condemn property on a whim or for purely economic purposes. We urge the Boulders HOA to consult its legal counsel about the limits of condemnation authority. Alternatively, the Boulders HOA can review the briefs the Town has filed in its thus far successful condemnation action for an accurate recitation of the law of condemnation as applied to this situation.
11. Accusations of “conflicts of interest, graft and cronyism” are unequivocally false.1 If the Boulders HOA has evidence supporting such wild defamatory statements, then the Boulders HOA would have laid that evidence on the table. Yet to date all that has been supplied are accusations and innuendo without proof.
12. The Town has no clue what the references to “extraordinary behavior of those in” the Boulders HOA “who are connected to the [M]ayor” and “e-mail phishing and a physical threat” are related to. The Town certainly has done no such thing nor encouraged others to do so. The Town unequivocally denounces uncivil or unlawful discourse. If the Boulders HOA is receiving harsh criticism from others, then perhaps the Boulders HOA should examine those circumstances internally before ascribing ulterior motives to others.
13. The Boulders HOA’s baseless and factually unsupported cries of having been “swindled and fleeced”, of constitutional violations, and of “a violation of criminal statutes” are laughable given the Boulders HOA’s (a) track record thus far in court, and (b) failure to present any evidence overcoming the true public necessity of providing reliable and potable water to a thousand Town residents. The site’s owner will receive just compensation for any condemnation. The Town commissioned and presented an Appraisal from a qualified appraiser related to the site. The Boulders HOA did so, but once it realized the appraisal would essentially comport with the Town’s own appraisal, the Boulders HOA scrambled, fired its appraiser, and concluded that its own appraisal would not be “robust enough” (translation: favorable for the Boulders HOA’s narrative). Again, where is the evidence supporting all these baseless lies?
These are the real facts. Unvarnished. Provable. Truthful. We urge the Boulders HOA and its members to stop defaming the Town’s hard-working public servants. We urge the Boulders HOA and its members to cease spewing defamatory, bitter, irrational accusations that are hurtful and provable as false. In that regard, those affected by the Boulders HOA’s defamatory actions, including the Town’s public servants, reserve all rights and remedies they as victims may have at law or in equity. That said, the purpose of this correspondence is to set the record straight so that those not aligned with the Boulders HOA’s vocal minority are apprised of the truth. We are confident that the rest of the Town, and many members of the Boulders HOA, will quickly dismiss the rhetoric and false narrative and conclude that the Town and its public servants are doing, as they always have, what is best for the Town.
If you desire to discuss this matter, please do not hesitate to call me.
Very truly yours,
Craig Morgan
Craig A. Morgan
1 Graft is a form of political corruption involving the misdirection of public money by a public official for a private benefit. This statement as it applies to the Mayor or any other Town public servant is provably false and grossly defamatory. I remain astonished someone would be so callous with such an accusation without providing proof.
Carefree Unity | February 5, 2022 at 7:53 pm |
LANDSCAPE DESIGN FOR REDUCED MAINTENANCE
Are you wanting an attractive garden, yet tired of investing your time and money? Sadly, landscapes aren't always designed with maintenance in mind. The result? Landscape that is over-pruned and underwhelming, not reflective of the original design. Noelle Johnson, aka AZ Plant Lady, says, “Improper plant selection, watering, and other avoidable factors compound the higher demand for maintenance.”
On Saturday, February 12, 2022, Carefree Desert Gardens welcomes horticulturist, Noelle Johnson, aka AZ Plant Lady and writer of the popular garden blog ‘Ramblings from a Desert Garden’. Noelle, with her degree in Urban Horticulture, is an instructor at Desert Botanical and Tucson Botanical Gardens. She is the creator of the popular online course, ‘Desert Gardening 101’. During this presentation, she will show you how to avoid, and fix, those areas of your garden that take a lot of work so you can have a beautiful outdoor space with less maintenance.
The program, including a plant raffle, will begin at 9:30 a.m. and run approximately until noon at the Carefree Desert Gardens Pavilion located in the town center. A $5.00 - or more - donation is appreciated to support these programs. For information call 480-488-3686.
This is the second of 4 programs of the 2022 Carefree Desert Gardens seminar series.
Are you wanting an attractive garden, yet tired of investing your time and money? Sadly, landscapes aren't always designed with maintenance in mind. The result? Landscape that is over-pruned and underwhelming, not reflective of the original design. Noelle Johnson, aka AZ Plant Lady, says, “Improper plant selection, watering, and other avoidable factors compound the higher demand for maintenance.”
On Saturday, February 12, 2022, Carefree Desert Gardens welcomes horticulturist, Noelle Johnson, aka AZ Plant Lady and writer of the popular garden blog ‘Ramblings from a Desert Garden’. Noelle, with her degree in Urban Horticulture, is an instructor at Desert Botanical and Tucson Botanical Gardens. She is the creator of the popular online course, ‘Desert Gardening 101’. During this presentation, she will show you how to avoid, and fix, those areas of your garden that take a lot of work so you can have a beautiful outdoor space with less maintenance.
The program, including a plant raffle, will begin at 9:30 a.m. and run approximately until noon at the Carefree Desert Gardens Pavilion located in the town center. A $5.00 - or more - donation is appreciated to support these programs. For information call 480-488-3686.
This is the second of 4 programs of the 2022 Carefree Desert Gardens seminar series.
Important information regarding public safety services in Carefree:
Last Spring, the Town Council requested that interested citizens volunteer to assist in an evaluation of the current level of fire and emergency as well as law enforcement services within the community. Eight citizens volunteered and were appointed to a Committee called the Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC). Since April 2021, this Committee has held open, public meetings to learn, discuss and reconcile recommendations for public safety services within Carefree. To learn more, the PSAC Final Report and Recommendations can be found by clicking this link Public Safety Advisory Committee (carefree.org) .
This Report will be presented to and discussed with the Town Council and the community at a joint meeting of the PSAC and the Town Council on February 15th Town Council | Carefree, AZ - Official Website
Next Steps in Public Process:
Collectively, this report and joint meeting are excellent opportunities for residents to learn more about Carefree’s fire and emergency services and the future community decisions. Please take the time to review and consider this critical information regarding Carefree’s fire and emergency services.
Last Spring, the Town Council requested that interested citizens volunteer to assist in an evaluation of the current level of fire and emergency as well as law enforcement services within the community. Eight citizens volunteered and were appointed to a Committee called the Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC). Since April 2021, this Committee has held open, public meetings to learn, discuss and reconcile recommendations for public safety services within Carefree. To learn more, the PSAC Final Report and Recommendations can be found by clicking this link Public Safety Advisory Committee (carefree.org) .
This Report will be presented to and discussed with the Town Council and the community at a joint meeting of the PSAC and the Town Council on February 15th Town Council | Carefree, AZ - Official Website
Next Steps in Public Process:
Collectively, this report and joint meeting are excellent opportunities for residents to learn more about Carefree’s fire and emergency services and the future community decisions. Please take the time to review and consider this critical information regarding Carefree’s fire and emergency services.
History of Fire and Emergency Services within the Community:
Beginning in the 1960s, Rural Metro provided fire and emergency services to Town residents and businesses through individual subscription services. In the past, a resident would annually pay a subscription fee to Rural Metro for fire and emergency services of approximately $750. This model continued for approximately 40 years.
In the early 2000’s the individual subscription model changed when the Town of Carefree assumed a master contract with Rural Metro, built a state-of-the-art fire station and furnished it with a fire truck and associated equipment pursuant to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards. The master contract with Rural Metro simply provided the certified firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical technicians to staff the Town’s fire house and equipment. This new master contract provided the Town with a higher level of service and accountability through defined service metrics. However, with this higher level of service the Town’s annual operation costs directly associated with this new Town Fire Department increased. Therefore, at that time, to help offset this increase to the Town’s annual operation costs, the Town Council approved a new funding stream with a 1% increase in the Town’s retail sales tax.
Evolving needs:
Over the past 15 years this model has served the community well and has assisted countless property owners and families in a time of need. However, present day external influences are impacting the Town’s current relationship with Rural Metro. Recently, the Town of Cave Creek assumed a similar model as Carefree and acquired a fire station and began to purchase equipment. However, in extinguishing the need for individual residential subscriptions for fire and emergency services, Cave Creek chose to contract with the adjacent Daisy Mountain Fire District. A benefit of Cave Creek’s new contractual relationship with Daisy Mountain Fire District is that the District is part of a regional partnership of first responders called automatic aid. Automatic aid is comprised of municipal fire departments and fire districts located within the Phoenix-Mesa metropolitan area. Collectively, these automatic aid partners set uniform standards of service and seamlessly dispatch the closest, most appropriate equipment regardless of jurisdictional boundaries of participating entities. As a result of the uniform standards established by this regional partnership, there are additional up front capital investments and a significant increase to current annual operational expenses. The Committee’s report outlines options for the community to consider to meet the funding gap required to qualify for automatic aid partnership.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3229729660?pwd=aHBnS3N5L1JRRG8wRGNFT25Ic2hGUT09
Meeting ID: 322 972 9660
Passcode: 12345
Looking to get involved and make a positive impact in your community?
Sky Ranch Carefree Arizona
There is an available volunteer opportunity to serve on the Sky Ranch Community Relations Committee.
Town of Carefree Ordinance No. 99-03 and Ordinance 85-22 grant a special use permit to Sky Ranch Flight Association to use their property as a private airport and imposes certain conditions on such uses. One such condition is the establishment of an advisory committee for the purpose of, among other things, advising the airport with respect to the cooperation of the airport and its impact on and relationship with the Town of Carefree, and acting as a liaison between the Town and the airport. This advisory committee is referred to as the Sky Ranch Community Relations Committee and meets at least quarterly with the management of the airport.
Per the Ordinance, the advisory committee shall consist of at least three persons to be appointed by Sky Ranch who shall be members and of two persons appointed by Carefree Town Council.
To learn more or submit your name with a short bio of introduction, for consideration, please contact: Erica@carefree.org by February 19.
The Town Council will appoint a committee member at the March 1 Town Council meeting.
For most young people turning 18, it's an exciting time, a rite of passage into adulthood with graduation around the corner and many looking forward to college or an exciting career on the horizon. They have confidence and enthusiasm. But, for teens in the foster care system, it's different. When these young people turn 18 and "age out" of the system, this is the result:
· Only 54% will have a high school diploma
· 20% will become homeless within a year
· 25% will become incarcerated within two years
· Just 50% will be underemployed by age 24
· Only 3% will obtain a college degree
· 71% of all girls will become pregnant before age 21
Our Outcomes for participants who remain in our Scotts Foundation program:
· 100% graduate high school
· 82% average decrease in case "incident" reports
· No arrests
· No pregnancies
· 80% reduction in prescribed drugs
· 90% average reduction in self-harm attempts
· 97% average program attendance
· 450 average volunteer hours per youth, annually
For the 2021 – 2022 year The Scott Foundation had to close registrations when they hit 1,000 kids who signed up for the program.
The Scott Foundation has started a few programs teaching various skills to assist these kids finding meaningful employment upon graduation. Five Chefs from around the valley are teaching culinary skills with equipment furnished by the Carefree Kiwanis Club.
The Maricopa County Sheriff's office is just starting a Cadet program with 25 kids already signed up.
https://scott-foundation.org/
THANKS
John Skarda
Beginning in the 1960s, Rural Metro provided fire and emergency services to Town residents and businesses through individual subscription services. In the past, a resident would annually pay a subscription fee to Rural Metro for fire and emergency services of approximately $750. This model continued for approximately 40 years.
In the early 2000’s the individual subscription model changed when the Town of Carefree assumed a master contract with Rural Metro, built a state-of-the-art fire station and furnished it with a fire truck and associated equipment pursuant to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards. The master contract with Rural Metro simply provided the certified firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical technicians to staff the Town’s fire house and equipment. This new master contract provided the Town with a higher level of service and accountability through defined service metrics. However, with this higher level of service the Town’s annual operation costs directly associated with this new Town Fire Department increased. Therefore, at that time, to help offset this increase to the Town’s annual operation costs, the Town Council approved a new funding stream with a 1% increase in the Town’s retail sales tax.
Evolving needs:
Over the past 15 years this model has served the community well and has assisted countless property owners and families in a time of need. However, present day external influences are impacting the Town’s current relationship with Rural Metro. Recently, the Town of Cave Creek assumed a similar model as Carefree and acquired a fire station and began to purchase equipment. However, in extinguishing the need for individual residential subscriptions for fire and emergency services, Cave Creek chose to contract with the adjacent Daisy Mountain Fire District. A benefit of Cave Creek’s new contractual relationship with Daisy Mountain Fire District is that the District is part of a regional partnership of first responders called automatic aid. Automatic aid is comprised of municipal fire departments and fire districts located within the Phoenix-Mesa metropolitan area. Collectively, these automatic aid partners set uniform standards of service and seamlessly dispatch the closest, most appropriate equipment regardless of jurisdictional boundaries of participating entities. As a result of the uniform standards established by this regional partnership, there are additional up front capital investments and a significant increase to current annual operational expenses. The Committee’s report outlines options for the community to consider to meet the funding gap required to qualify for automatic aid partnership.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3229729660?pwd=aHBnS3N5L1JRRG8wRGNFT25Ic2hGUT09
Meeting ID: 322 972 9660
Passcode: 12345
Looking to get involved and make a positive impact in your community?
Sky Ranch Carefree Arizona
There is an available volunteer opportunity to serve on the Sky Ranch Community Relations Committee.
Town of Carefree Ordinance No. 99-03 and Ordinance 85-22 grant a special use permit to Sky Ranch Flight Association to use their property as a private airport and imposes certain conditions on such uses. One such condition is the establishment of an advisory committee for the purpose of, among other things, advising the airport with respect to the cooperation of the airport and its impact on and relationship with the Town of Carefree, and acting as a liaison between the Town and the airport. This advisory committee is referred to as the Sky Ranch Community Relations Committee and meets at least quarterly with the management of the airport.
Per the Ordinance, the advisory committee shall consist of at least three persons to be appointed by Sky Ranch who shall be members and of two persons appointed by Carefree Town Council.
To learn more or submit your name with a short bio of introduction, for consideration, please contact: Erica@carefree.org by February 19.
The Town Council will appoint a committee member at the March 1 Town Council meeting.
For most young people turning 18, it's an exciting time, a rite of passage into adulthood with graduation around the corner and many looking forward to college or an exciting career on the horizon. They have confidence and enthusiasm. But, for teens in the foster care system, it's different. When these young people turn 18 and "age out" of the system, this is the result:
· Only 54% will have a high school diploma
· 20% will become homeless within a year
· 25% will become incarcerated within two years
· Just 50% will be underemployed by age 24
· Only 3% will obtain a college degree
· 71% of all girls will become pregnant before age 21
Our Outcomes for participants who remain in our Scotts Foundation program:
· 100% graduate high school
· 82% average decrease in case "incident" reports
· No arrests
· No pregnancies
· 80% reduction in prescribed drugs
· 90% average reduction in self-harm attempts
· 97% average program attendance
· 450 average volunteer hours per youth, annually
For the 2021 – 2022 year The Scott Foundation had to close registrations when they hit 1,000 kids who signed up for the program.
The Scott Foundation has started a few programs teaching various skills to assist these kids finding meaningful employment upon graduation. Five Chefs from around the valley are teaching culinary skills with equipment furnished by the Carefree Kiwanis Club.
The Maricopa County Sheriff's office is just starting a Cadet program with 25 kids already signed up.
https://scott-foundation.org/
THANKS
John Skarda
𝐖𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐧 𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝐂𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 - 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞.Here at Dynamic Appliance Repair, we work together as a team to achieve a common goal. We have enthusiasm to encourage employee growth through paid education, training, and vast resources. If you know of our reputation in the industry, you would be proud to work for our company. We have an excellent track record and a strong example of leadership in the industry.
https://dynamic-appliance-repair.careerplug.com/j/010nkau
PLEASE 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤. 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮.
Kathy Slipek
Managing Director
Dynamic Appliance Repair
(480) 590-3533
Visit Our Website
Review Us
Lyn,
Thank you for all your work keeping the Carefree community educated on all the local politics and events.
Would it be possible to add information to your activities calendar as shown in the link below. We expect this 60th anniversary airport event to be a big success and attended by a large segment of the community.
Carefree Classic Wheels & Wings | Something Special on The Road and In The Air
https://dynamic-appliance-repair.careerplug.com/j/010nkau
PLEASE 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤. 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮.
Kathy Slipek
Managing Director
Dynamic Appliance Repair
(480) 590-3533
Visit Our Website
Review Us
Lyn,
Thank you for all your work keeping the Carefree community educated on all the local politics and events.
Would it be possible to add information to your activities calendar as shown in the link below. We expect this 60th anniversary airport event to be a big success and attended by a large segment of the community.
Carefree Classic Wheels & Wings | Something Special on The Road and In The Air
Non profit Info:
American Legion Post 34 celebrates its 75-year anniversary with patriotism, World War II USO show
American Legion Post 34 turns 75 in 2022 and veterans are planning a year chock full of events, tributes, patriotism and the celebration of freedom. The Faces of Freedom kicks off with a salute to the men and women who served in World War II.
As part of an event planned for March 19, American Legion Post 34 will invite veterans and the public to learn about the Post’s role in World War II while enjoying a BBQ lot of liberty excitement and red hot entertainment from the era provided by the Manhattan Dolls, the Andrew Sisters of today.
The excitement begins with a breakfast at Post 34 from 8-10 AM.
“The public is encouraged to enjoy all the special activities planned for the day,” says Dan Schwerdtfeger, American Legion Post 34 commander.
The entertainment gets underway with a BBQ that runs from 12-4 PM. The Dolls’ first live show takes place from 1-2 PM. A second show runs from 3-4 PM; there will be a small fee for each show (to be announced), however veterans are free. The entertainers will take photos with guest in-between. The Post’s atmosphere will reflect the era and during the day’s activities, WWII tank commander veteran John Tyler will be honored.
Post 34 has created a series of exciting educational and themed events to celebrate serving the community for three quarters of a century. During its anniversary, Post 34 will feature veterans’ services and giving back to the community over the years.
“There will be nostalgia at every bend as we transport people back in time to places our veterans knew,” adds Schwerdtfeger. ”While we will share veteran stories throughout the years, we also will showcase the war eras and our veterans’ role in supporting freedom. For each event, living veterans will be invited to attend so they can be honored by all in attendance.”
Schwerdtfeger says American Legion Post 34 looks forward to sharing its rich history, values and honorable work with the communities it serves.
Chartered in 1947, American Legion Post 34 has been giving back to community charitable organizations for more than 75 years. The Post, whose mission is to support and advocate on behalf of veterans, active military and their families, consistently reaches out to assist veterans and others in need.
“Our role is to support more than 500 veterans through programs that honor them and support their care,” says Tom Reali, American Legion Post 34 vice commander.”
American Legion Post 34 turns 75 in 2022 and veterans are planning a year chock full of events, tributes, patriotism and the celebration of freedom. The Faces of Freedom kicks off with a salute to the men and women who served in World War II.
As part of an event planned for March 19, American Legion Post 34 will invite veterans and the public to learn about the Post’s role in World War II while enjoying a BBQ lot of liberty excitement and red hot entertainment from the era provided by the Manhattan Dolls, the Andrew Sisters of today.
The excitement begins with a breakfast at Post 34 from 8-10 AM.
“The public is encouraged to enjoy all the special activities planned for the day,” says Dan Schwerdtfeger, American Legion Post 34 commander.
The entertainment gets underway with a BBQ that runs from 12-4 PM. The Dolls’ first live show takes place from 1-2 PM. A second show runs from 3-4 PM; there will be a small fee for each show (to be announced), however veterans are free. The entertainers will take photos with guest in-between. The Post’s atmosphere will reflect the era and during the day’s activities, WWII tank commander veteran John Tyler will be honored.
Post 34 has created a series of exciting educational and themed events to celebrate serving the community for three quarters of a century. During its anniversary, Post 34 will feature veterans’ services and giving back to the community over the years.
“There will be nostalgia at every bend as we transport people back in time to places our veterans knew,” adds Schwerdtfeger. ”While we will share veteran stories throughout the years, we also will showcase the war eras and our veterans’ role in supporting freedom. For each event, living veterans will be invited to attend so they can be honored by all in attendance.”
Schwerdtfeger says American Legion Post 34 looks forward to sharing its rich history, values and honorable work with the communities it serves.
Chartered in 1947, American Legion Post 34 has been giving back to community charitable organizations for more than 75 years. The Post, whose mission is to support and advocate on behalf of veterans, active military and their families, consistently reaches out to assist veterans and others in need.
“Our role is to support more than 500 veterans through programs that honor them and support their care,” says Tom Reali, American Legion Post 34 vice commander.”
American Legion Post 34 to host Gathering of Heroes,
Medal of Honor recipients
On Sunday, April 3, 2022 beginning at 4 PM, American Legion Post 34 will honor several Medal of Honor and Purple Heart recipients at the Post’s headquarters, which is located at 6272 E. Cave Creek Road. The event is part of the Marine Corps Law Enforcement Foundation-AZ Chapter (MCLEF), which promotes the annual Gathering of the Heroes. MCLEF also will host a golf tournament fund-raiser at Wildfire Golf Club on Monday, April 3 with a 7:30 AM shotgun start. The golf club is located at 5350 E. Marriott Drive, Phoenix, Ariz. Golf sponsorship information and registration can be found at mclefaz.org. This event is open to the public.
The Medal of Honor ceremony kicks off when American Legion Post 34 riders escort the Medal of Honor recipients, who earned the nation’s highest medal during different wars, to the Post for a deeply patriotic ceremony in the presence of their peers and friends. In addition, a Color Guard will be on hand to present the colors. There are only 67 living Medal of Honor recipients in the country.
The ceremony begins Sunday, April 3 at 4 PM with the Color Guard, the playing of Taps and a prayer followed by a presentation honoring Medal of Honor and Purple Heart recipients. The entrance fee is $10, which includes a meal ticket. In addition, there will be a raffle, a silent auction, a live auction and live music, which will begin at 7 PM. All fund-raiser monies go directly to MCLEF.
The Marine Corps Law Enforcement Foundation-AZ Chapter establishes a $35,000 educational scholarship for every child who loses a parent serving in the United States Marine Corps or any federal law enforcement agency. Since its founding in 1995, MCLEF has awarded more than $85 million in educational scholarship accounts and other humanitarian assistance to more than 4000 children and families of fallen Marines and federal law enforcement officers.
In addition, following the Gathering of Heroes event at Legion Post 34, Keith Burns, founding member of the Grammy-nominated ACM & AMA award-winning platinum selling group Trick Pony, will sing and play for veterans and guests. Burns has had three Top 10 songs for Trick Pony and Joe Diffie and has written several Top 40 songs with artists including Hootie & The Blowfish, Sammy Kershaw, Burns & Poe and Mo Bandy. Burns was nominated in 2018 for the NIMA Best Country Male Solo Artist and Best Country Entertainer of the Year.
Artists Rob West and J. Michael Harter will follow Burns. West, a country star and patriot, is an ambassador for the Folds of Honor Foundation and The Veterans Golfers Association. He will sing the song Drink ‘Em Quiet, an ode to a friend who lost his battle with PTSD. Harter, an American country artist who signed with Bow Records in 2002, released his debit album, Unexpected Change, produced a single on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks with his song Hard to Make. He now has his own label, Big Al.
The American Legion, formed in 1919, supports and advocates on behalf of veterans, active military and their families. The 501 (c19) also supports the initiatives and programs of the American Legion while fostering patriotism and responsible citizenship. The American Legion is a non-secular, non-political organization.
Stamp Mill demonstration The Arizona Gold Mining Experience, open February 12 at Cave Creek Museum
The Cave Creek Museum will offer demonstrations of its stamp mill on February 12, 2022 from 11:00 AM-12:45 PM.
Evelyn Johnson, interim executive director, says the museum will start up its incredible stamp mill, water tower, mineral panning, blacksmithing and more that Saturday.
“Cave Creek Museum is proud to feature Arizona’s mining history,” says Johnson. “Our historic stamp mill and tramway is from the Golden Reef Mine on Continental Mountain and is the only one in Arizona within five miles of its original site. We want people to come and experience how gold mining was done back in the day. And, plan to spend time exploring our exciting new The Arizona Gold Mining Experience, which includes blacksmithing, a mine and gold panning.
The stamp mill will be operated on the second Saturday of each month during the museum’s 2022 season.
Arizona Gold Mining Experience expands, adds mine shaft
A new exhibit has just opened at Cave Creek Museum’s Arizona Gold Mining Experience. The new mine shaft is a replica of a typical hard rock Arizona gold mine. To enhance the experience, lights flash and the earth shakes to replicate sequential dynamite explosions. Visitors will learn how the introduction of dynamite and compressed air rock drills increased a mine’s output, but also made it far more dangerous for Arizona miners at the time.
About the Experience
The Arizona Gold Mining Experience features the mine, a tram, a crusher and the 10-stamp mill as part of a 90-minute fascinating demonstration.
The expansive outdoor experience begins in the museum’s lobby with a lively retelling of the Cave Creek mining district's history. Guests then move outside for numerous demonstrations that showcase the hard rock ore extraction process for which Cave Creek is renowned.
The excitement builds to the operation of the amazing Golden Reef Stamp Mill and Tramway, Arizona’s only fully operational ten-stamp ore crushing mill. The 10, 1,000-lb. stamps slam down in synchronized motion to pound ore removed from the mine into fine gravel. The stamp mill was brought from its former location at the Golden Reef Mine on Continental Mountain to Cave Creek Museum, which has the only fully operational mining stamp mill in its original mining district in Arizona; it is located and located just five miles from its site on the mountain. The giant stamp mill also is connected to a working tramway and ore carts that carry the ore to be pulverized to the stamp mill.
The experience continues as guests peer into a mineshaft to show the blasting techniques used by hard rock miners. Next, onto the new blacksmith shop for a demonstration of the many skills used when parts and tools had to be fabricated onsite.
Guests then are encouraged to try their luck at the new gold panning station, where museum volunteers show visitors how to pan for ore and minerals just like the prospectors did.
Afterward, visitors enjoy a tour of the museum's inside exhibits, including the Feast of Rocks (a mineral display) on loan from the Arizona Mineral, Mining Museum and Natural Resources Education Museum.
Other exhibits showcasing Arizona’s mining history include historical and archaeology; articles from Cave Creek’s mining and agricultural past; the historic first Cave Creek church; and the tuberculosis cabin, which is on the National Register of Historic Places as the only known existing tubercular cabin from that era.
The Arizona Gold Mining Experience runs the second Saturday of every month, October through May. 11 AM-12:45 PM in the museum lobby and admission is $7 for adults; $5 for seniors; children under 12 are free. Visitors should plan on arriving early so they can purchase admission prior to the event. We encourage guests to purchase their tickets in advance by visiting them museum’s website at cavecreekmuseum.org to avoid waiting in line at the register.
Cave Creek Museum presents cacti and a field guide
Cave Creek Museum will present a Kiwanis sponsored Family Sunday program entitled Cacti and a Field Guide on February 13, 2022 from 2-4 PM.
The Sonoran Desert is known for is many species of cactus and their amazing spring blooms. Join Desert Foothills Land Trust at the Cave creek Museum and learn about the common cactus that found throughout the Arizona desert. Visitors will make their own field guide and have the opportunity to create a desert flower to take with them. The event is free and open to the public.
Medal of Honor recipients
On Sunday, April 3, 2022 beginning at 4 PM, American Legion Post 34 will honor several Medal of Honor and Purple Heart recipients at the Post’s headquarters, which is located at 6272 E. Cave Creek Road. The event is part of the Marine Corps Law Enforcement Foundation-AZ Chapter (MCLEF), which promotes the annual Gathering of the Heroes. MCLEF also will host a golf tournament fund-raiser at Wildfire Golf Club on Monday, April 3 with a 7:30 AM shotgun start. The golf club is located at 5350 E. Marriott Drive, Phoenix, Ariz. Golf sponsorship information and registration can be found at mclefaz.org. This event is open to the public.
The Medal of Honor ceremony kicks off when American Legion Post 34 riders escort the Medal of Honor recipients, who earned the nation’s highest medal during different wars, to the Post for a deeply patriotic ceremony in the presence of their peers and friends. In addition, a Color Guard will be on hand to present the colors. There are only 67 living Medal of Honor recipients in the country.
The ceremony begins Sunday, April 3 at 4 PM with the Color Guard, the playing of Taps and a prayer followed by a presentation honoring Medal of Honor and Purple Heart recipients. The entrance fee is $10, which includes a meal ticket. In addition, there will be a raffle, a silent auction, a live auction and live music, which will begin at 7 PM. All fund-raiser monies go directly to MCLEF.
The Marine Corps Law Enforcement Foundation-AZ Chapter establishes a $35,000 educational scholarship for every child who loses a parent serving in the United States Marine Corps or any federal law enforcement agency. Since its founding in 1995, MCLEF has awarded more than $85 million in educational scholarship accounts and other humanitarian assistance to more than 4000 children and families of fallen Marines and federal law enforcement officers.
In addition, following the Gathering of Heroes event at Legion Post 34, Keith Burns, founding member of the Grammy-nominated ACM & AMA award-winning platinum selling group Trick Pony, will sing and play for veterans and guests. Burns has had three Top 10 songs for Trick Pony and Joe Diffie and has written several Top 40 songs with artists including Hootie & The Blowfish, Sammy Kershaw, Burns & Poe and Mo Bandy. Burns was nominated in 2018 for the NIMA Best Country Male Solo Artist and Best Country Entertainer of the Year.
Artists Rob West and J. Michael Harter will follow Burns. West, a country star and patriot, is an ambassador for the Folds of Honor Foundation and The Veterans Golfers Association. He will sing the song Drink ‘Em Quiet, an ode to a friend who lost his battle with PTSD. Harter, an American country artist who signed with Bow Records in 2002, released his debit album, Unexpected Change, produced a single on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks with his song Hard to Make. He now has his own label, Big Al.
The American Legion, formed in 1919, supports and advocates on behalf of veterans, active military and their families. The 501 (c19) also supports the initiatives and programs of the American Legion while fostering patriotism and responsible citizenship. The American Legion is a non-secular, non-political organization.
Stamp Mill demonstration The Arizona Gold Mining Experience, open February 12 at Cave Creek Museum
The Cave Creek Museum will offer demonstrations of its stamp mill on February 12, 2022 from 11:00 AM-12:45 PM.
Evelyn Johnson, interim executive director, says the museum will start up its incredible stamp mill, water tower, mineral panning, blacksmithing and more that Saturday.
“Cave Creek Museum is proud to feature Arizona’s mining history,” says Johnson. “Our historic stamp mill and tramway is from the Golden Reef Mine on Continental Mountain and is the only one in Arizona within five miles of its original site. We want people to come and experience how gold mining was done back in the day. And, plan to spend time exploring our exciting new The Arizona Gold Mining Experience, which includes blacksmithing, a mine and gold panning.
The stamp mill will be operated on the second Saturday of each month during the museum’s 2022 season.
Arizona Gold Mining Experience expands, adds mine shaft
A new exhibit has just opened at Cave Creek Museum’s Arizona Gold Mining Experience. The new mine shaft is a replica of a typical hard rock Arizona gold mine. To enhance the experience, lights flash and the earth shakes to replicate sequential dynamite explosions. Visitors will learn how the introduction of dynamite and compressed air rock drills increased a mine’s output, but also made it far more dangerous for Arizona miners at the time.
About the Experience
The Arizona Gold Mining Experience features the mine, a tram, a crusher and the 10-stamp mill as part of a 90-minute fascinating demonstration.
The expansive outdoor experience begins in the museum’s lobby with a lively retelling of the Cave Creek mining district's history. Guests then move outside for numerous demonstrations that showcase the hard rock ore extraction process for which Cave Creek is renowned.
The excitement builds to the operation of the amazing Golden Reef Stamp Mill and Tramway, Arizona’s only fully operational ten-stamp ore crushing mill. The 10, 1,000-lb. stamps slam down in synchronized motion to pound ore removed from the mine into fine gravel. The stamp mill was brought from its former location at the Golden Reef Mine on Continental Mountain to Cave Creek Museum, which has the only fully operational mining stamp mill in its original mining district in Arizona; it is located and located just five miles from its site on the mountain. The giant stamp mill also is connected to a working tramway and ore carts that carry the ore to be pulverized to the stamp mill.
The experience continues as guests peer into a mineshaft to show the blasting techniques used by hard rock miners. Next, onto the new blacksmith shop for a demonstration of the many skills used when parts and tools had to be fabricated onsite.
Guests then are encouraged to try their luck at the new gold panning station, where museum volunteers show visitors how to pan for ore and minerals just like the prospectors did.
Afterward, visitors enjoy a tour of the museum's inside exhibits, including the Feast of Rocks (a mineral display) on loan from the Arizona Mineral, Mining Museum and Natural Resources Education Museum.
Other exhibits showcasing Arizona’s mining history include historical and archaeology; articles from Cave Creek’s mining and agricultural past; the historic first Cave Creek church; and the tuberculosis cabin, which is on the National Register of Historic Places as the only known existing tubercular cabin from that era.
The Arizona Gold Mining Experience runs the second Saturday of every month, October through May. 11 AM-12:45 PM in the museum lobby and admission is $7 for adults; $5 for seniors; children under 12 are free. Visitors should plan on arriving early so they can purchase admission prior to the event. We encourage guests to purchase their tickets in advance by visiting them museum’s website at cavecreekmuseum.org to avoid waiting in line at the register.
Cave Creek Museum presents cacti and a field guide
Cave Creek Museum will present a Kiwanis sponsored Family Sunday program entitled Cacti and a Field Guide on February 13, 2022 from 2-4 PM.
The Sonoran Desert is known for is many species of cactus and their amazing spring blooms. Join Desert Foothills Land Trust at the Cave creek Museum and learn about the common cactus that found throughout the Arizona desert. Visitors will make their own field guide and have the opportunity to create a desert flower to take with them. The event is free and open to the public.
Cave Creek Museum presents Arizona Water
Cave Creek Museum Presents Arizona Water on February 19, 2022 from 2-4 PM in the museum’s historic church.
Arizona is facing a water crisis. How will the current shortages affect residents? Does Arizona have enough water? What happens if the state runs out of its current sources? What can people do?
This presentation, given by Thomas McGuire, will help attendees understand the current water crisis and Arizona’s water future. McGuire holds degrees in geology and geology education. He as served as a volunteer (docent) at the museum, as a volunteer at the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area and as a Cave Creek town council member, each for more than a decade. He recently published a geology and hydrology guide that can be downloaded from the Desert Foothills Land Trust website. This event is free and open to the public.
The 51-year-old museum’s mission is to preserve the artifacts of the prehistory, history, culture and legacy of the Cave Creek Mining District and the Cave Creek/Carefree foothills area through education, research, and interpretive exhibits. The Cave Creek Museum is located at 6140 E. Skyline Drive in Cave Creek, Ariz., 480.488.2764. Open October through May.
Cave Creek Museum Presents Arizona Water on February 19, 2022 from 2-4 PM in the museum’s historic church.
Arizona is facing a water crisis. How will the current shortages affect residents? Does Arizona have enough water? What happens if the state runs out of its current sources? What can people do?
This presentation, given by Thomas McGuire, will help attendees understand the current water crisis and Arizona’s water future. McGuire holds degrees in geology and geology education. He as served as a volunteer (docent) at the museum, as a volunteer at the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area and as a Cave Creek town council member, each for more than a decade. He recently published a geology and hydrology guide that can be downloaded from the Desert Foothills Land Trust website. This event is free and open to the public.
The 51-year-old museum’s mission is to preserve the artifacts of the prehistory, history, culture and legacy of the Cave Creek Mining District and the Cave Creek/Carefree foothills area through education, research, and interpretive exhibits. The Cave Creek Museum is located at 6140 E. Skyline Drive in Cave Creek, Ariz., 480.488.2764. Open October through May.
The 51-year-old museum’s mission is to preserve the artifacts of the prehistory, history, culture and legacy of the Cave Creek Mining District and the Cave Creek/Carefree foothills area through education, research, and interpretive exhibits. The Cave Creek Museum is located at 6140 E. Skyline Drive in Cave Creek, Ariz., 480.488.2764. Open October through May.
Desert Foothills Land Trust invites artists to submit entries for Art for Land’s Sake 2022 – Inspired by Nature. This is the Land Trust’s 8th annual art exhibit promoting the beauty of our natural world through traditional and representational artworks. The event is intended to celebrate the lands permanently protected by the Land Trust, to promote their mission to protect wildlife and conserve sensitive lands for the survival of the Sonoran Desert, and to endorse the importance of a human connection to nature.
This year the exhibit and auction will be online in conjunction with an in-person opening reception on March 31 at The Holland Center, the Foothills Community Foundation community center located at 34250 N 60th St, Bldg. B, Scottsdale, AZ 85266. The reception will feature a preview display of selected art from the exhibit and an opportunity for guests to purchase some of the art prior to the opening of online bidding. “After opting to move the exhibit completely online last year to avoid cancelling our 2021 event, we are so pleased to be able to offer an opportunity to experience some of the art in-person this year.” Vicki Preston, CEO/President of Desert Foothills Land Trust explains. “This hybrid event will help us reestablish that personal connection to nature through art.”
Entries are being accepted now through the submission deadline on March 4, 2022. Eligible art can be 2D or 3D including, but not limited to, all media such as digital art, photography, paintings, sculpture, fiber art and jewelry, with a minimum value of $150 each. Submitted art will be reviewed on the aesthetic and technical skill of the artists in depicting the theme of the online exhibit – inspired by nature. Jurors Laurie Nessel and A.H. Smith will select best in show in multiple categories. Jury selections will be featured in the online exhibit. The online exhibit will be open for public preview starting March 28, and the auction will open for bidding on April 1 and run through April 11. To learn more about the jurors, the exhibit and auction, or how to submit artwork, visit the Art for Land’s Sake 2022 website page at: www.dflt.org/art-for-lands-sake.
ABOUT DESERT FOOTHILLS LAND TRUST
Desert Foothills Land Trust has been working in the Desert Foothills communities north of Phoenix for over 30 years to connect people to nature and protect and steward sensitive lands and species of the Sonoran Desert. The Land Trust has permanently protected nearly 1,000 acres of valuable conservation lands. Many of the preserves are open to the public for exploration and light recreation. The Land Trust also offers guided tours, volunteer opportunities and educational programs to build awareness about the importance of land protection for the survival of the Sonoran Desert and for future generations to enjoy. To learn more about their work visit www.dflt.org.
IMPORTANT DATES
· March 28, 2022 – exhibit opens for public preview
· March 31, 2022, 6:30 – 8:30 pm – opening reception at The Holland Center
· April 1, 2022, 12 noon – auction opens for bidding
· April 11, 2022, 12 noon – bidding closes
Digital photos can be accessed on Google Drive with this link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1SgmdhT7oMvGtpc_rUaqsv0OiVLdpA40S?usp=sharing
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Mary Warren, Director of Community Engagement, Desert Foothills Land Trust, mwarren@dflt.org,
480.488.6131 x201
This year the exhibit and auction will be online in conjunction with an in-person opening reception on March 31 at The Holland Center, the Foothills Community Foundation community center located at 34250 N 60th St, Bldg. B, Scottsdale, AZ 85266. The reception will feature a preview display of selected art from the exhibit and an opportunity for guests to purchase some of the art prior to the opening of online bidding. “After opting to move the exhibit completely online last year to avoid cancelling our 2021 event, we are so pleased to be able to offer an opportunity to experience some of the art in-person this year.” Vicki Preston, CEO/President of Desert Foothills Land Trust explains. “This hybrid event will help us reestablish that personal connection to nature through art.”
Entries are being accepted now through the submission deadline on March 4, 2022. Eligible art can be 2D or 3D including, but not limited to, all media such as digital art, photography, paintings, sculpture, fiber art and jewelry, with a minimum value of $150 each. Submitted art will be reviewed on the aesthetic and technical skill of the artists in depicting the theme of the online exhibit – inspired by nature. Jurors Laurie Nessel and A.H. Smith will select best in show in multiple categories. Jury selections will be featured in the online exhibit. The online exhibit will be open for public preview starting March 28, and the auction will open for bidding on April 1 and run through April 11. To learn more about the jurors, the exhibit and auction, or how to submit artwork, visit the Art for Land’s Sake 2022 website page at: www.dflt.org/art-for-lands-sake.
ABOUT DESERT FOOTHILLS LAND TRUST
Desert Foothills Land Trust has been working in the Desert Foothills communities north of Phoenix for over 30 years to connect people to nature and protect and steward sensitive lands and species of the Sonoran Desert. The Land Trust has permanently protected nearly 1,000 acres of valuable conservation lands. Many of the preserves are open to the public for exploration and light recreation. The Land Trust also offers guided tours, volunteer opportunities and educational programs to build awareness about the importance of land protection for the survival of the Sonoran Desert and for future generations to enjoy. To learn more about their work visit www.dflt.org.
IMPORTANT DATES
- Jan. 24 - open for submission
· March 28, 2022 – exhibit opens for public preview
· March 31, 2022, 6:30 – 8:30 pm – opening reception at The Holland Center
· April 1, 2022, 12 noon – auction opens for bidding
· April 11, 2022, 12 noon – bidding closes
Digital photos can be accessed on Google Drive with this link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1SgmdhT7oMvGtpc_rUaqsv0OiVLdpA40S?usp=sharing
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Mary Warren, Director of Community Engagement, Desert Foothills Land Trust, mwarren@dflt.org,
480.488.6131 x201
Limited Engagement Event
February 11-13, 2022
The Holland Center
34250 N. 60th St. 85266
Tickets: $25
THE STORY: Lies ripped from actual headlines that smeared the reputation of the reclusive heiress, Sarah Winchester, come back to haunt five people who wrote them. The characters and their stories are based on documented facts. The plot is fiction: A mysterious host traps them in a graveyard behind Sarah Winchester’s notoriously haunted mansion, where they must either admit to their complicity in a hoax that haunts Mrs. Winchester’s legacy to this very day, or else…
This show PROMISES to be a delightful evening of music and mystery!
February 11-13, 2022
The Holland Center
34250 N. 60th St. 85266
Tickets: $25
THE STORY: Lies ripped from actual headlines that smeared the reputation of the reclusive heiress, Sarah Winchester, come back to haunt five people who wrote them. The characters and their stories are based on documented facts. The plot is fiction: A mysterious host traps them in a graveyard behind Sarah Winchester’s notoriously haunted mansion, where they must either admit to their complicity in a hoax that haunts Mrs. Winchester’s legacy to this very day, or else…
This show PROMISES to be a delightful evening of music and mystery!
CASTING CALL for AGES 6-13
Desert Foothills invites kids ages 6-13 years old to perform in a MUSICAL THEATER SHOW in the Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center's Black Box stage with Director Sandi Carll.
This is a perfect show for beginners and seasoned performers with scores of super solos and a ton of fun feature moments, it's the PERFECT show for both boys and girls ages 6-13. No performance experience is necessary. We will help you shine!
AUDITIONS
Sign up for one audition spot on January 27, 28 or 29.
Click the sign up link above for more audition information.
Call Sandi to get all of your audition, rehearsal, and show questions answered.
480-488-1981
Rehearsals begin February 1
Monday-Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoons
(Not all actors will be called to all rehearsals)
The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85266
Shows: March 18-27 at The Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center, Black Box Theater
33606 N 60th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85266
THE STORY:
Dear Edwina JR. is a heartwarming musical about the joys of growing up, from the creators of Junie B. Jones, The Musical.
Join the fun and follow the adventures of plucky advice-giver-extraordinaire, Edwina Spoonapple, as she directs the neighborhood kids in a series of buoyant production numbers for the latest edition of her weekly "Advice-a-Palooza.” Dear Edwina JR. provides a perfect opportunity to showcase many young performers with great parts for all!
Produced with licensing from Music Theatre International
Desert Foothills invites kids ages 6-13 years old to perform in a MUSICAL THEATER SHOW in the Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center's Black Box stage with Director Sandi Carll.
This is a perfect show for beginners and seasoned performers with scores of super solos and a ton of fun feature moments, it's the PERFECT show for both boys and girls ages 6-13. No performance experience is necessary. We will help you shine!
AUDITIONS
Sign up for one audition spot on January 27, 28 or 29.
Click the sign up link above for more audition information.
Call Sandi to get all of your audition, rehearsal, and show questions answered.
480-488-1981
Rehearsals begin February 1
Monday-Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoons
(Not all actors will be called to all rehearsals)
The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85266
Shows: March 18-27 at The Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center, Black Box Theater
33606 N 60th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85266
THE STORY:
Dear Edwina JR. is a heartwarming musical about the joys of growing up, from the creators of Junie B. Jones, The Musical.
Join the fun and follow the adventures of plucky advice-giver-extraordinaire, Edwina Spoonapple, as she directs the neighborhood kids in a series of buoyant production numbers for the latest edition of her weekly "Advice-a-Palooza.” Dear Edwina JR. provides a perfect opportunity to showcase many young performers with great parts for all!
Produced with licensing from Music Theatre International
Attention TEENS!
SAVE THE DATE
AUDITIONS, MARCH 11-12- Coming soon
Ages 14-19
(13 year olds can audition with the consent of the director)
SHOWS: APRIL 21-MAY 1
Directed by Terry Temple
THE STORY
In nineteenth century, France, Jean Valjean is released from years of unjust imprisonment, but finds nothing in store for him but mistrust and mistreatment. He breaks his parole in hopes of starting a new life, initiating a lifelong struggle for redemption.
Grand and uplifting, Les Misérables School Edition packs an emotional wallop that has thrilled audiences all over the world. This version of the show beautifully maintains the integrity of original musical masterpiece.
SAVE THE DATE
AUDITIONS, MARCH 11-12- Coming soon
Ages 14-19
(13 year olds can audition with the consent of the director)
SHOWS: APRIL 21-MAY 1
Directed by Terry Temple
THE STORY
In nineteenth century, France, Jean Valjean is released from years of unjust imprisonment, but finds nothing in store for him but mistrust and mistreatment. He breaks his parole in hopes of starting a new life, initiating a lifelong struggle for redemption.
Grand and uplifting, Les Misérables School Edition packs an emotional wallop that has thrilled audiences all over the world. This version of the show beautifully maintains the integrity of original musical masterpiece.
Adult Programs
Vintage Hats Private Collection Fundraiser & Tea to benefit Desert Foothills Library Sunday, February 27, 3:00pm
Reserve your spot at the English Rose Tea Room for tea, cakes, and your chance to take home one or more of fifty vintage hats from a private collection that spans the 1950s – 1990s. These designer and one-of-a-kind hats are being donated by Andrea Markowitz, whose mother amassed the collection. Jo Gemmil of the English Rose Tea Room is donating the tea and cakes. Your $35 ticket includes tea, cakes and five raffle tickets. Additional raffle tickets may be purchased at the event. Seating is limited. ALL proceeds directly benefit Desert Foothills Library.
Call English Rose Team Room at 480-488-4812 to reserve your seat and 5 raffle tickets.
Questions, please contact the English Rose Tea Room at 480-488-4812 or Desert Foothills Library at 480-488-2286 or info@dfla.org.
Tax Assistance by Masters of CoinTuesdays & Thursdays, February - April
The IRS and Masters of Coin-sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help for low to moderate income families, elderly persons, persons with disabilities, and limited English speaking taxpayers who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns. IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals. Please call 480-488-2286 to schedule an appointment. Forms to be filled out are available for pick up prior to appointment.
Please bring social security card, all 2021 tax forms, 2020 tax return, and photo identification card. Please visit the Masters of Coin website for additional information: https://mastersofcoin.org.
Call the library at 480-488-2286 to book your appointment.
Library Book ClubThursday, February 10, 10:00am ZOOM
Tuesday, February 22, 10:00am ZOOM
Discussion of a different book each month. Everyone is welcome! If you are unable to make the 2nd Thursday, catch the same book discussion on the 4th Tuesday each month!
This month: The Soul of an Octopus by Sy Montgomery
RSVP HERE for February 10
RSVP HERE for February 22
Literary SalonThursday, February 17, 10:00am ZOOM
An informal discussion of books, film and theater, led by a facilitator. No requirements to read or see any particular book, film or play. Everyone is invited to share ideas and reflections on the selected theme.
This Month: Cookbook Memories
Puzzle ExchangeFriday, February 25
Are you sick of your puzzles at home because you have completed all of them multiple times? Come drop off your gently used puzzles and pick out a new one for free! Leave one puzzle and take four, the more the merrier. Offered on the last Friday of every month. All ages and skill levels encouraged!
Vintage Hats Private Collection Fundraiser & Tea to benefit Desert Foothills Library Sunday, February 27, 3:00pm
Reserve your spot at the English Rose Tea Room for tea, cakes, and your chance to take home one or more of fifty vintage hats from a private collection that spans the 1950s – 1990s. These designer and one-of-a-kind hats are being donated by Andrea Markowitz, whose mother amassed the collection. Jo Gemmil of the English Rose Tea Room is donating the tea and cakes. Your $35 ticket includes tea, cakes and five raffle tickets. Additional raffle tickets may be purchased at the event. Seating is limited. ALL proceeds directly benefit Desert Foothills Library.
Call English Rose Team Room at 480-488-4812 to reserve your seat and 5 raffle tickets.
Questions, please contact the English Rose Tea Room at 480-488-4812 or Desert Foothills Library at 480-488-2286 or info@dfla.org.
Tax Assistance by Masters of CoinTuesdays & Thursdays, February - April
The IRS and Masters of Coin-sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help for low to moderate income families, elderly persons, persons with disabilities, and limited English speaking taxpayers who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns. IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals. Please call 480-488-2286 to schedule an appointment. Forms to be filled out are available for pick up prior to appointment.
Please bring social security card, all 2021 tax forms, 2020 tax return, and photo identification card. Please visit the Masters of Coin website for additional information: https://mastersofcoin.org.
Call the library at 480-488-2286 to book your appointment.
Library Book ClubThursday, February 10, 10:00am ZOOM
Tuesday, February 22, 10:00am ZOOM
Discussion of a different book each month. Everyone is welcome! If you are unable to make the 2nd Thursday, catch the same book discussion on the 4th Tuesday each month!
This month: The Soul of an Octopus by Sy Montgomery
RSVP HERE for February 10
RSVP HERE for February 22
Literary SalonThursday, February 17, 10:00am ZOOM
An informal discussion of books, film and theater, led by a facilitator. No requirements to read or see any particular book, film or play. Everyone is invited to share ideas and reflections on the selected theme.
This Month: Cookbook Memories
Puzzle ExchangeFriday, February 25
Are you sick of your puzzles at home because you have completed all of them multiple times? Come drop off your gently used puzzles and pick out a new one for free! Leave one puzzle and take four, the more the merrier. Offered on the last Friday of every month. All ages and skill levels encouraged!
