Category: Phoenix, Arizona Local News

MCLD — During this unprecedented time, Maricopa County Library District (MCLD) has come up with new and innovative ways to meet the changing needs of its communities. After launching livestreaming programs for all ages, increasing access to its collection of streaming and digital services, and introducing one-on-one phone sessions for homework help, there is still an overwhelming desire from the community to regain access to the library’s nearly 720,000 items in the library’s physical collection. Libraries are access to literature that helps both in studying, preparing reports, and spending time with a book at home, relaxing after a hard day. And for a more accurate study of why it is important to have (web) libraries and read, contact essays writers.

Starting Wednesday, April 22, MCLD will begin a new Curbside Pickup service at the majority of its libraries across the county. Cardholders can reserve and pick up books, movies and more, all while practicing social distancing.

“Libraries are about access,” said Maricopa County Board of Supervisors Chairman Clint Hickman, District 4. “The Maricopa County Library District is dedicated to finding the best ways to give our community the access they need and want. The first step was to go virtual, but we knew many people needed another way. We are thrilled to launch another service that allows for us to be there for our community. No matter what is going on in the world, the library is always here.”

The safety of staff, customers and the community remain MCLD’s top priority. All staff members are required to wear gloves, a face mask and will practice recommended social distancing from other staff members and members of the public during the curbside service. All items checked back into MCLD during this time will be placed in a 72-hour quarantine before being placed back on shelves.

The program will launch by allowing access to the more than 16,000 items currently on hold throughout the district. Beginning on Monday, May 4, cardholders will be able to begin making new reservations on items for Curbside Pickup. 

PROGRAM FACTS:

STEP 1:  CLICK IT

Curbside service will begin on Wednesday, April 22 by distributing items customers currently have on hold. Starting on Monday, May 4, cardholders can begin reserving items that are available at their local MCLD library. Holds can be made online at https://catalog.mcldaz.org/ or by calling (602) 652-3000.

STEP 2:  PARK IT

After being notified that items are available for pickup, customers will drive to their library during the designated curbside hours and follow signs for where to park. Customers will be asked to remain in their vehicle and a library staff member will greet them from a safe distance.

STEP 3:  POP IT

While library staff retrieve the held items, customers will pop open their trunk for our staff to place items directly into vehicles.

PARTICIPATING LIBRARIES:

Full details about the program can be found at https://mcldaz.org/about/curbside-faq.

 ABOUT MARICOPA COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT:

The Maricopa County Library District (MCLD) is a special taxing district that runs 18 libraries countywide. MCLD inspires curiosity, encourages discovery and exploration of new worlds, and helps residents reconnect with their community. In 2019, MCLD held more than 6,700 events for all ages, nearly 83,000 children and adults participated in the Summer Reading Program, and 2.9 million customers visited an MCLD library. Maricopa County and Queen Creek residents and property owners get an MCLD library card at no cost. For more information, visit https://mcldaz.org.

Amid social distancing, parks, sports fields and gyms that were once bustling are now empty as youth sports practices and adult workouts happen at home with a combination of live and recorded instruction. Even local music lessons have gone virtual.

Using Zoom, Facebook Live, Instagram and YouTube, local instructors have pivoted business models quickly to stay relevant while keeping people in shape and skills sharp. Useful Internet sources were especially helpful, which maximized the idea of using a variety of Internet sites and how it is practical and economical. You can even buy term papers online on any topic of interest to you, discussing all questions online!

Rhapsody School of Music is a few weeks into its virtual lessons, and while teachers and students have had to adapt to some hiccups, for the most part things are going well.

“Teachers are staying engaged, our students are still learning, and the most important thing to us is being accomplished: Music is continuing on in the homes of our students,” said Brian Kunnari, the school’s marketing and communications director. “We are going to call that a win in today’s world.”

Local trainer Frankie Carman of Frankie’s Fitness began posting online videos for all ages and fitness levels to encourage families to get moving together during the pandemic. 

“The thought of families being pent up together in their household without an outlet to exercise kills me, so I wanted to offer these sets of videos for free so that everyone can join in on the fun,” Carman said. “I’ve been able to reach families that I’ve never met before and they’re loving the workouts so far.”

Youth sports clubs, unable to host camps, clinics, private lessons and tournaments, are trying to keep players active.

9R Baseball Club offers training videos on its YouTube channel, Zoom and other social media outlets. The videos are available to anyone “as a free service to help as many athletes as possible stay active in baseball,” said owner Fred Speck. “It’s really been more about goodwill during this time.” 

The New Way?

Business owners say the shift online has opened new possibilities for their businesses that might stick even after social-distancing measures are lifted. 

9Rs Baseball has been using social media as a way to expand its reach and promote services when it is safe to open back up. “I think we will continue to use the other resources

that have come as a result of these changes as well,” Speck said. 

Rhapsody is currently exploring what the summer programming could look like, and how performance ensembles could continue from home, along with the virtual lessons, Kunnari said. 

True Fitness owner Gina Quinn is looking to keep virtual training as part of their program. “We are working on fine tuning our virtual training to bring more professional-grade training to our clients,” Quinn said. “We do see a silver lining in the crisis.” 

Creative Virtual Finds

Whether you’re looking to keep your skills or strength sharp, or try something new during COVID-19, In&Out Magazine has compiled a list of creative virtual options in our area to keep you active, entertained and engaged.

9R Baseball posts a 30–day skills challenge on YouTube and Facebook, with drill videos produced by the coaching staff, available to anyone.
480-540-8689
www.9rbaseball.com

As You Wish Pottery provides pottery and canvas projects kits for kids and adults available for pick–up within 24 hours of online purchase.
$10–$35
623-587-7700
www.asyouwishpottery.com

Core 5 Flag Football has a private, virtual training Facebook group page for families to stay active with drill videos to practice at home or outside with physical distancing.
702-807-1118

http://core5flagfootball.com

Fit4Mom offers virtual versions of their five prenatal and postnatal fitness programs for moms and their little ones. Membership includes unlimited workouts (up to 14 per week), virtual play–dates with the kids (five per week) and weekly virtual “mom’s night” without the kids.
$29/Month during social distancing
602-644-1258

https://northwestvalley.fit4mom.com

Frankie’s Fitness offers free online videos each week on Facebook and YouTube for all ages and fitness levels. A more extensive program, personal training and nutritional coaching sessions are all available through the Zoom app (price varies).
$47/Month
480-322-7804

www.frankiesfitness.com

Jabz Boxing Happy Valley hosts daily live-stream boxing classes led by trainers, plus video workout routines for members to do on their own time.
$40/Two weeks; First week free for new members
623-349-1502

www.jabzboxing.com

Mountainside Fitness offers free at–home daily workouts and live Facebook group classes to the public.
1-866-686-3488
https://mountainsidefitness.com

MudPie Studios presents “art to go,” a complete project including a piece of pottery or ceramics of choice, three colors of paint and brushes delivered to your door for free within 15 miles. Ready–to–paint canvases are also available.
$10–$13
623-551-9177

www.mudpiestudios.net

Musical Theatre of Anthem moved its Minis program for ages 3–5 to Zoom classes and the organization recently held a virtual talent showcase. Jackie Hammond, the producing artistic director, is personally offering one–on–one acting and vocal lessons, as well as audition-feedback workshops.
623-336-6001

www.musicaltheatreofanthem.org

No Limits Karate Academy started a private group Facebook page for students to continue to receive training online.
623-869-6631
http://nolimitskarateacademy.com

North Valley Symphony keeps its youth ensemble members busy with virtual rehearsal sessions on SmartMusic learning software.
623-980-4628

www.northvalleysymphony.org

Plant Bar AZ offers free porch delivery anywhere in the Valley and pickup options on at–home planting kits, including a DIY terrarium and a “plant adventure” kit with tools to decorate and plant a terracotta pot with paint, rocks and a mystery succulent. Tutorial videos available online to assist with both kits.
$24.95
623-363-2882

https://plantbaraz.com

Red Effect Norterra welcomes the public to join its studio with $0 down for daily group virtual fitness classes, ranging from high interval intensity training to yoga and barre, until the studio opens back up and membership charges resume.
480-530-0335

www.redeffectfitness.com

Rhapsody School of Music shifted to Zoom online music lessons. Tuition includes 30–minute private instruction on a weekly basis for nearly every instrument. During this time, the standard registration fee has been waived and the first lesson is free. The online retail store is also operating with free same–day delivery on phone and online purchases of instruments, accessories and sheet music to homes within a 10–mile radius of Anthem.
$140/Month
623-465-7060

www.rhapsodyschoolofmusic.com

True Fitness programs home workouts via Facebook Live six days a week led by trainers using weights and heavy household items such as gallon water jugs, broomsticks and even pillows.
623-328-7109

www.truefitnessgymaz.com

World Family Taekwondo offers virtual training for students in an instructor-led live Zoom session.
623-551-8089
www.worldfamilytkd.com

Confession: I cuss. I’m not exactly proud of it, but I’m not ashamed, either. In fact, it comes in pretty #%@*-#% handy right now. 

Swearing was taboo in my strict Catholic upbringing, and I’m not just talking about the “Big-7.” I remember getting a whack from Aunt Mamie, right on the front porch, because she heard me say “toilet water.” I was only 5, but even then, I thought to myself, “What the #%@* is wrong with saying toilet water?” 

I picked up the basics in elementary school, and took in some very helpful lectures when visiting other strict Catholic homes. There was a time I could say #%@* in Italian, German, Gaelic, and Portuguese. Learning compound cusses and proper adjective use was a bit more difficult, but I have my childhood football coaches to thank for squiring me through this difficult course. “What the #%@*ity #%@*-#%@*???” remains a classic to this day.

Swearing is a taboo set of words or phrases, but in fact, most of these words are related to the human body and processes, and they have acquired a “negative connotation” over time, that is, any word can become “swearing”. Moreover, you can contact best writing service and make sure that swearing is in no way related to the level of education or anything.

My undergraduate degree came courtesy of the U.S. Navy. They say the game moves faster in the pros, and I can attest to that. Stepping off the bus at boot camp was like lacing up against the ’92 Dream Team. I never dared to imagine that an entire sentence, heck, an entire paragraph could be constructed of only cuss words paired with the word “recruit.” I was both terrified and inspired. 

It was then that my highly successful, but unfortunately short-lived “dirty-drilling-ditty” period began. Everybody’s a critic, including the base commander, as it turned out. With a last name like “Stucky,” he should have seen it coming.

I chose the construction industry to pursue my Ph.D., and my thesis was entitled “What the #%@*? The Unanswerable Question.” 

Upon completing my doctorate, I entered the field of residential remodeling. In my previous studies I learned that not only is this the second most popular field for the world’s top cussers, (celebrity assistant is No. 1, but the pay sucks) but there is a never-ending need for top-tier expletive executives. And you get to be outdoors.

Many people consider swearing to be the tools of the ignorant. But I, and science, disagree. 

A 2017 Marist College study found that potty-mouths consistently scored higher on verbal fluency tests than their “okily-dokily” counterparts. Swearing has also been found to reduce anxiety, something we’ve all got plenty of these days. Now what the #%@* do you think of that?

Former contractor, former home inspector and funny guy, Chris Prickett is owner and designated broker of Prickett Realty. A New Jersey native, Prickett has been a top-producing REALTOR® in North Phoenix over the past decade. He has been a columnist since 2005. Over the Prickett Fence is published weekly by In&Out Publications.

CITY OF PHOENIX — More than 300 jobs paying $14 to $15 per hour to assemble respiratory masks are being filled in a series of virtual Arizona@Work hiring events starting Thursday, April 16. Additional virtual hiring events are slated for April 23 and 30. The virtual hiring event has important information and answers to questions.

Arizona@Work is organizing the hiring events on behalf of Manpower, the organization handling the hiring assignment for the manufacturer.

The first event will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday. The website is bit.ly/PHXAssembly and requires the password “p3nAVmmYJ28.” The password is case sensitive. Interested candidates can attend the virtual hiring event or email resumes to [email protected] with “Attention Mickey Ruxon, AZ@WK” in the subject line.

Successful candidates must adhere to company requirements:

• Small parts assembly, with the ability to work standing.
• Previous assembly, production, and manufacturing experience, however open to entry level capabilities.
• Meet and adhere to applicable Standard Operation Instructions (SOS/SCS) or any other related documents.
• Lifting is generally at or below 35Lbs. without significant repetitions.
• Employee will be part of the manufacturing process including assembly of products, machine operation and moderate material handling.

For more information, contact Arizona@Work/Phoenix, 602-262-6776 or ArizonaAtWork.com/Phoenix, go to “Events.”

See Also: Who’s Hiring: Job Openings in Anthem & Phoenix

The demand for grocery delivery and pickup service has ramped as people strive for minimal physical contact. As of this writing, most area stores offer pick-up and delivery, but most of these services are currently delayed one to several days. It pays to plan ahead, be patient, and be flexible with brand substitutions for items out of stock. Orders may be placed online or through each store’s mobile app.

Safeway/Albertsons
www.albertsons.com
Albertsons in Tramonto offers both pickup and delivery options, but the Safeway in Anthem appears not to (the same company owns both). A minimum $30 order is required for both pickup and delivery. Delivery fees range between $3.95–$5.95 per order.

Fry’s Marketplace
www.frysfood.com
No minimum amount required on pick-up orders or delivery orders. Delivery fee per order is $9.95. Shipping orders are available for non–perishable items and take 1–2 business days, with costs ranging from $4.99 to $14.99, depending on chosen mail service.

Walmart
www.walmart.com
Grocery pickup is offered on minimum of $30 per order. Grocery delivery not available in 85087, 85086 and 85085.
Everybody’s Family Fruit
https://everybodysfamilyfruit.com
Delivering fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, dairy, eggs, beans, rice, pastas and dried fruits and spices to your doorstep. An order minimum of $75 is required, as well as a delivery fee of $5.99. Next-day ordering available only via the website. Contactless pick-up is also available at the company’s headquarters in Peoria. Tip: This is a great option to split with family and friends.

Costco Grocery Delivery
https://www.costco.com/costco-grocery-faq.htm
Grocery delivery on perishables is provided through Instacart. Individual item prices include a service fee. Order minimum is $35.
Two-day delivery is also an option on non-perishables and household supplies. No minimum order is required, but orders of $75 or more will not incur a separate delivery fee. 

See Also: Special Shopping Hours for Seniors in Anthem & North Phoenix

Amid this challenging job market, some places are actually hiring. This list has been compiled from company websites and queries to businesses by In&Out Magazine and is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication, but of course, openings may change rapidly. If we missed openings you know about, please email and let us know. Also, you can additionally contact the marketing plan writing service, where they will design your idea, including goals, involvement of various institutions, etc.

AirFiber
623-383-3823
www.airfiber.cc/index.php
Hiring internet installers for the North Phoenix area.

Albertsons
3130 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix
623-582-4985
www.albertsonscompanies.com/careers.html
Hiring in all departments immediately.

Arion Care Solutions
480-722-1300

https://arioncaresolutions.com/employment
Hiring in–home caregivers, personal care aides and life skills aides at various locations.

Arizona Pain Relief
3624 W. Anthem Way, Suite C108, Anthem
623-207-9216
www.arizonapainrelief.com
Full–time patient relations specialist position available.

Banner Health
2323 W. Rose Garden Lane, Phoenix
480-684-6400
https://jobs-bannerhealth.icims.com/jobs
Full–time patient financial services representative position available.

BBVA Bank
1875 W. Deer Valley Road, Phoenix
623-587-1002
www.bbvausa.com/our-story/careers.html
Sales and service advisor position.

Brewer Companies
1911 W. Parkside Lane, Phoenix
623-582-8452
https://brewercompanies.com/careers
Hiring plumbers and front desk receptionists.

Burger King
620 E. Carefree Highway, Phoenix
623-434-0661
33100 N. North Valley Parkway, Phoenix
602-354-3070
https://company.bk.com/careers/bring-it-bkc
Hiring team members. 

Carefree Compounding and Wellness
34975 N. North Valley Parkway, Phoenix
623-806-1300
www.ccv2rx.com
Entry–level pharmacy technician position open.

Circle K
https://workwithus.circlek.com
Full– and part–time positions for customer service representatives and store assistants at various locations in the area.

Cox Cactus Farm
34623 N. 7th Ave., Phoenix
480-721-0382
https://coxcactusfarm.com
Hiring a part–time bookkeeper.

CVS Pharmacy
3610 W. Anthem Way, Anthem
623-551-4299
39510 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway, Anthem
623-551-1031
28635 N. North Valley Parkway, Phoenix
623-582-9207
https://jobs.cvshealth.com
Hiring pharmacy technicians, retail store associates, shift supervisors and health care concierge.

Del Taco
4115 W. Anthem Way, Anthem
623-465-9820
www.deltaco.com/careers
Team member positions available.

Dollar Tree
3668 W. Anthem Way, Anthem
602-794-2455
2501 W. Happy Valley Road, Phoenix
623-300-7325
2919 W. Agua Fria Freeway, Phoenix
480-337-7422
www.dollartree.com Hiring sales floor associates

Domino’s Pizza
39506 N. Daisy Mountain Drive, Suite 120, Anthem
623-551-1515
https://jobs.dominos.com
General manager, assistant manager, customer service representative and delivery driver positions open.

Farmer’s Insurance
23841 N. Black Canyon Highway, Phoenix
818-965-0042

www.farmers.com/careers
Now hiring in customer service and sales.

Fresca’s
4250 W. Anthem Way, Phoenix
623-465-0983
www.frescas.com/employment
Crew member, cashier, dishwasher, prep cook, line cook and manager positions available.

Fry’s Food Stores
39508 W. Daisy Mountain Drive, Anthem
623-551-7220
2800 W. Dove Valley Road, Phoenix
480-994-6230
https://jobs.kroger.com
Hiring pharmacy technicians and grocery, retail and e–commerce clerks.

GNC
39508 W. Daisy Mountain Drive, Anthem
623-551-0127
2727 W. Agua Fria Freeway, Phoenix
623-581-7303
https://jobs.gnc.com
Hiring part–time sales associates.

Home Assist Health
602-795-7620
https://homeassisthealth.applicantstack.com/x/openings
In–home caregiver positions available throughout the valley.

HonorHealth
Sonoran Health and Emergency Center
33423 N. 32nd Ave., Phoenix
Deer Valley Medical Center
19829 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix
Support Services
2500 W. Utopia Road, Phoenix
Full– and part–time positions available for nurses, patient-care technicians, housekeepers, food services, respiratory therapists, laboratory technicians and administrative services.
480-587-5111

www.honorhealth.com/jobs

Leslie’s Pool Supplies
3655 W. Anthem Way, Anthem
623-551-5126
www.lesliespool.com/jobs.htm
Hiring seasonal sales associates. 

Lowe’s
2501 W. Happy Valley Road, Phoenix
623-445-9840
https://jobs.lowes.com
Full– and part–time positions available for receivers, stockers, merchandisers and sales.

McDonald’s
3623 W. Anthem Way, Anthem
623-551-1717
3140 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix
623-434-8377
2501 W. Happy Valley Road, Phoenix
623-780-5900
3848 W. Pinnacle Peak Road, Phoenix
623-580-9618
2225 W. Deer Valley Road, Phoenix
623-581-1879
https://careers.mcdonalds.com/us
Hiring crew team members and shift managers.

Nationwide Vision
39508 W. Daisy Mountain Drive, Suite, 150, Anthem
623-551-6192
2501 W. Happy Valley Road, Suite 31-1050, Phoenix
623-869-0253
https://nationwidevision.com
Hiring full–time patient service representatives.

O’Reilly Auto Parts
42420 W. Vision Way, Anthem
623-551-0724
2015 W. Happy Valley Road, Phoenix
623-879-7242
Hiring full– and part–time in parts delivery.

Outschool
415-968-1685
https://jobs.lever.co/outschool/?location=Remote
Hiring remote teachers and technical support specialists. 

Petsmart
3655 W. Anthem Way, Suite B-103, Anthem (Groomery Only)
623-476-4719
2901 W. Agua Fria Freeway, Phoenix
623-492-9045
19601 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix (Call Center)
888-839-9638
https://careers.petsmart.com
Hiring trainers, groomers, stockers, managers, salon assistants, pet care specialists, sales associates and reservation agents.

Pizza Hut
34640 N. North Valley Parkway, Phoenix
623-582-7909
https://jobs.pizzahut.com
Delivery driver, team member, general manager, assistant manager, area coach and shift leader positions available.

Ruby’s Diner
4250 W. Anthem Way, Phoenix
623-551-7829
www.rubys.com/careers
Hiring cooks.

Safeway
3655 W. Anthem Way, Anthem
623-745-3800
3800 W. Happy Valley Road, Phoenix
623-518-1946
www.albertsonscompanies.com
Hiring in all departments immediately. 

Sonic Drive–In
41135 N. Daisy Mountain Drive, Anthem
623-551-2879
1919 W. Deer Valley Road, Phoenix
623-780-2330
https://careers.sonicdrivein.com
Positions open for cooks, crew members, assistant manager and general manager.

Sprouts Farmers Market
5355 E. Carefree Highway, Cave Creek
480-800-8056
https://about.sprouts.com/careers
Full– and part–time positions for shopping clerks available.

Starbucks
3640 W. Anthem Way, Anthem
623-551-5407
39352 N. Daisy Mountain Drive, Anthem
623-551-0977
2730 W. Dove Valley Road, Phoenix
480-994-6230
2501 W. Happy Valley Road, Phoenix
623-587-6499
www.starbucks.com/careers
Barista and shift supervisor positions available.

State Farm
34975 N. North Valley Parkway, Phoenix
623-581-9966
34406 N. 27th Drive, Suite 112, Phoenix
623-581-1800
https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?from=web%2CiaBackPress&jk=69024c3bc05018a7&l=85086&tk=1e56fsl06b950800&vjs=3
Office representative, account representative, customer service representative and assistant office manager positions available.

Subway
3906 W. New River Road, New River
623-465-7139
4435 W. Anthem Way, Phoenix
623-551-1023
3655 W. Anthem Way, Anthem
623-516-1900
3120 E. Carefree Highway, Phoenix
623-434-1327
www.subway.com
Hiring sandwich artists.

The Enclave at Anthem Senior Living
42015 N. Venture Drive, Anthem
602-759-7952

https://spectrumretirement.com
Hiring part–time medication assistant, resident assistant and full–time server.

Triton Technologies
800-377-7486
https://jobs.tritontechnologies.com
Hiring work–from–home sales agents.

Twin Tails Cageless Grooming
2805 E. Carefree Highway, Phoenix
602-900-9995

https://cagelessgrooming.com
Hiring full– and part–time professional dog groomers.

Two Men and a Truck
1550 W. Parkside Lane, Phoenix
623-847-6683
https://careers.twomenandatruck.com
Hiring movers and drivers.

U-Haul
42301 N. 41st Drive, Anthem
623-465-4862
20550 N. 19th Ave., Phoenix
623-208-7605
https://jobs.uhaul.com/OpenJobs
Hiring customer service representatives and storage facility housekeepers.

Walgreens
2707 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix
623-215-0699

https://jobs.walgreens.com
Hiring temporary customer service associates and a pharmacy technician.

Walmart Supercenter
4435 W. Anthem Way, Phoenix
623-551-6327
2501 W. Happy Valley Road, Phoenix
623-780-5702
https://careers.walmart.com
Full–time positions available to all departments.

Compiled by In&Out Magazine as of Friday, April 10, 2020:

Albertsons
3130 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix
623-582-4985
www.albertsons.com/faq/covid-19-faq.html
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7–9 a.m.

Costco Wholesale
19001 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix
623-293-4400
www.costco.com/covid-updates.html
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8–9 a.m.

CVS
3610 W. Anthem Way, Anthem
623-551-4299
39510 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway, Anthem
623-551-1031
28635 N. North Valley Parkway, Phoenix
623-582-9207
www.cvs.com/content/coronavirus?icid=mt_200301_dt_banner
All locations: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9–10 a.m.

Fry’s Food Stores
39508 W. Daisy Mountain Drive, Anthem
623-551-7220
2800 W. Dove Valley Road, Phoenix
480-994-6230
www.frysfood.com/i/coronavirus-update/store-information
Both locations: Mondays–Thursdays, 6–7 a.m.

Safeway
3655 W. Anthem Way, Anthem
623-745-3800
3800 W. Happy Valley Road, Glendale
623-518-1946
www.safeway.com/faq/covid-19-faq.html
Both locations: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7–9 a.m.

Target
2727 Agua Fria Freeway, Phoenix
623-869-8070
https://corporate.target.com/press/releases/2020/03/target-announces-reduced-store-hours-dedicated-sho
Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 8–9 a.m.

Walgreens
2411 W. Anthem Way, Anthem
623-551-2465
2707 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix
623-215-0699
www.walgreens.com/topic/findcare/coronavirus.jsp?ban=dl_dlDLB_03292020_covid19
Both locations: Tuesdays, 8–9 a.m.

Walmart
4435 W. Anthem Way, Phoenix
623-551-6327
Tuesday, 8–9 a.m.
2501 W. Happy Valley Road, Phoenix
623-780-5702
Tuesday, 6–7 a.m.
https://corporate.walmart.com/important-store-info

We’ve all experienced it. We punctually arrive for a doctor appointment, only to wait 45 minutes so the doctor (or maybe just the physician’s assistant) can give us the 5-minute once-over, then it’s off to the next patient. 

Sucks, huh? Well, you know what’s worse? You’re about to journey into… COVID-Zone.

I expected the routine visit to my hip doctor to be canceled due to all the physical distancing, but no, my doc was still seeing patients. I arrived at a patient parking lot that was empty, though the employee lot on the side was full. As I walked through the door, I observed both sides of the waiting room were empty. OK…

The receptionists (three of them) all greeted me like bank tellers on a slow day, practically pleading for me to sit at their station. I chose the middle one, as to seem neutral. Once checked in, I barely had time to sanitize my waiting room chair before being whisked away to the exam room. 

A very friendly, and somewhat chatty nurse got my vitals and commenced with telling me more about the history of sphygmometers than I thought I cared about. Sensing she was losing me, she shifted to recalling her recent family vacation. 

Fortunately, the doctor walked in just as she was setting up the slide projector.

Since I usually see the PA, I hardly recognized the guy who installed my hardware. I’d previously only met him twice, and one time he wore a mask. Pleasant fellow. 

We discussed, at length, my progress and prognosis, all while he was drawing me cool pictures and graphs. “Wow, he’s being very thorough!” I thought to myself. 

Thirty minutes in, he starts talking about the wonders of meditation in healing, and it occurs to me that this poor guy is just lonely! He usually has a full schedule of surgeries and appointments, being a specialty doctor. But while healthcare professionals in hospitals dealing with COVID-19 outbreaks across the country are overworked and putting their lives on the line, this one is just sitting on the sideline hoping his coach will call his name. 

I figured I could do my part and spend time with the guy. It was a nice long visit. Turns out the poor fella always wanted to be a clog dancer.

Former contractor, former home inspector and funny guy, Chris Prickett is owner and designated broker of Prickett Realty. A New Jersey native, Prickett has been a top-producing REALTOR® in North Phoenix over the past decade. He has been a columnist since 2005. Over the Prickett Fence is published weekly by In&Out Publications.

When a local emergency room nurse turned to the AnthemStuff Facebook page for help with a solution for her and her nursing staff’s sore ears from long hours of surgical-mask wearing, the Anthem community responded in a big way. And it is important to listen to the needs of medical staff who risk their lives every day. If this topic is very relevant to you and you have solutions for certain problematic moments, or if you have problems related to your responsibilities as a doctor, contact the toolkit companies, and for this you will find it useful professional letter writer.

Lindsay Mays had just gotten off a shift with sore ears from her mask when she spotted an article about a Boy Scout in Canada who had developed ear guards with a 3D printer to make wearing masks more comfortable for healthcare workers. The scout has since shared his template publicly.

“I had heard some of the male doctors on my shift teasing about some of the solutions that are mostly female-related (headbands with buttons, hair clips, etc.) and saw that article and knew that was an easy and great solution,” Mays said. “I know Anthem has lots of people who want to help but are all stuck at home so I thought I would ask.”

Enter Anthem residents Liz and Mike Black. The couple had seen the post and comments from other nurses on the thread about similar needs, and they combined resources and put their 3D printers to work. 

A group was created on Facebook involving the following area residents who have offered to help with printing: Liz, Mike and Ana Black, Tim Broumley, Tyler Peterson, Henry Meyers, Chris Stewart, Kyle Welsh and Jason Wren. 

“So far we’ve distributed 110 of the ear savers, and have another 70 to give out,” Liz told In&Out. “Everyone plans on printing them until everyone who needs them, has them.” 

And, the best part―besides pain-free ears―the ear guards are being produced free of charge. Medical professionals have offered payment, but the group simply isn’t accepting, Liz said. 

“Our staff is loving them so far and asking for a bunch more… we just got a memo that we have to wear our N95 masks in the ER for our whole 12-hour shift,” Mays told In&Out.   

More Help

Others are making homemade masks for healthcare workers and neighbors. Megan Johansen took to AnthemStuff asking for elastic for the hundreds of cotton masks and scrub caps she and her husband are making free of charge for anyone in need. Within minutes, community members responded, offering donations.

“We started this because my husband is a chiropractor in the area and he’s stuck at home,” Johansen said. “The brave people working the front lines need our help. I feel like we’re a very small drop in a large bucket.”

We know there are countless others helping to bring our community together during these tough times. If you’d like to share acts of kindness happening in the community, email us at [email protected].

NoPho resident Karen Goveia joined In&Out Publications in 2009 and is managing editor. Goveia is a Chicagoland native with two decades of experience in the news industry, starting as a reporter for a chain of weekly papers serving Chicago’s suburbs and later serving as managing editor within the chain.

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR — Recent state and federal actions have expanded eligibility and benefit amounts for Arizona workers impacted by COVID-19.

On March 20, Governor Ducey issued an Executive Order, later followed by the signing of legislation, ensuring those who are out of work or facing a loss of hours because of COVID-19 have access to unemployment benefits. The order:

• Waived the one-week waiting period after an employee loses a job before they apply for unemployment benefits; and

• Temporarily suspended work search requirements for those receiving unemployment benefits.

The order also expanded who is eligible to receive unemployment benefits to include:

• Individuals whose employer has permanently or temporarily ceased or drastically reduced operations due to COVID-19 resulting in a reduction of wages;

• Individuals who, due to requirements that the individual be quarantined, are separated from employment and do not have any available paid leave even if the individual has an expectation of returning to work after the quarantine is over;

• Individuals who leave employment due to a risk of exposure or infection and are a member of a population that is particularly susceptible to COVID-19;

• Individuals who leave employment to care for a family member who has been infected with COVID-19; and

• Individuals who for any other scenario are separated from work for reasons related to COVID-19.

On March 27, President Trump signed the CARES Act into law, which makes a number of changes to expand unemployment assistance. These include:

• Expanding eligibility to individuals who historically have not been eligible for unemployment benefits such as individuals who are self-employed, contract workers or gig workers;

• Providing people with an additional $600 per week in benefits on top of the unemployment amount already offered by Arizona Unemployment Insurance benefits; and

• Authorizing extended benefits for an additional 13 weeks for individuals who exhaust their unemployment benefits.

The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) recently received guidance from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) on the additional $600 for Unemployment Insurance benefits and will be updating its systems in the coming days, with the expectation that those monies could reach claimants as early as next week. DES is evaluating guidance from DOL regarding the extended eligibility for those who historically have not been eligible.

To help process a surge in claims, DES has increased staff from 13 to more than 150 in call centers, with additional new assistance joining this week and further plans to augment capacity in the coming weeks. The Department has also deployed an online question tool (chatbot) in order to help users navigate the website and process.

Regardless of the status of the initial application, and regardless of the reasons why the individual is eligible for Unemployment Insurance, all Unemployment Insurance claimants must file weekly claims to continue to receive benefits. Even if their initial claim is still pending, Unemployment Insurance claimants must file a weekly claim to receive benefits for that week.

How to apply for and continue to receive unemployment benefits
The fastest and easiest way to apply for unemployment assistance is online at www.azui.com anytime between 12:01 a.m. on Sunday through 6:00 p.m. on Friday. Individuals without Internet access should call 1 (877) 600-2722. Hard copies of applications are also available in the documents center (UB-105 Arizona Initial Claim for Unemployment Insurance) at www.azdes.gov.

A step-by-step guide on the application process and what information is needed can be found HERE.

More information about unemployment benefits from DES can be found HERE. A FAQ fact sheet can be found HERE.

Where to find information on job openings
ARIZONA@WORK staff can provide people with no-cost job assistance to help them get back to work. More information about the services available and a list of jobs with immediate openings can be found at: [email protected].

“Take what you need, leave what you can.” That’s the idea behind a community share table organized by Jen Johansen in Anthem’s Firethorn neighborhood.

It started out with a large amount of citrus she received from a friend’s property in the Valley, and being that citrus trees are not allowed in Anthem, the idea was born to share the fruit with her neighbors. The share table evolved to include food, toilet paper, paper towels, napkins, DVDs and more, all donated by neighbors. 

“I’m hoping we can continue to collect the items people are searching for in stores and coming out empty handed… cleaning products, hand sanitizer, rubbing alcohol, wipes, toilet paper, face masks,” Johansen said. “Over the last few weeks I have been overwhelmed with everything going on and my desire to help those in need. I’m hopeful we can get these essential items to the people who really need them.”

Books, puzzles, games, toys or coloring activities are additional ideas for the table, she said, to keep kids and families entertained at home. 

Community Share Table
43127 N. Vista Hills Drive
Anthem

More Local Coronavirus Resources & News >>>

NoPho resident Karen Goveia joined In&Out Publications in 2009 and is managing editor. Goveia is a Chicagoland native with two decades of experience in the news industry, starting as a reporter for a chain of weekly papers serving Chicago’s suburbs and later serving as managing editor within the chain.

DMFM — During this unusual and difficult time, food banks are struggling to keep their shelves stocked. On Saturday April 11th and 18th, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical will be hosting a food drive to benefit local food banks. Donations of canned goods and nonperishable food items will be accepted at the Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical Administration Building, located at 41018 N Daisy Mountain Dr, Anthem AZ 85086.

This will be a drive-through drop-off to maintain physical distancing. Each donation, will receive a children’s fire safety activity book and sticker.

Online monetary donations are accepted through the Daisy Mountain
Firefighters Charities at https://firefighterscharities.org/.

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR⁠ — Governor Doug Ducey today issued an Executive Order allowing Arizona restaurants to repackage and sell grocery items they have on hand, including items not normally packaged and labeled for resale. Governor Ducey’s order comes in the wake of the Food and Drug Administration’s recent decision to provide temporary flexibility for nutrition labeling of packaged food.

“Even with dine-in and carry-out options still available to patrons, many Arizona restaurants are struggling due to COVID-19,” said Governor Ducey. “Today’s Executive Order provides flexibility for restaurant owners to safely sell prepared and bulk foods or supplies they have on hand and can’t use right now. We are proud to support Arizona restaurants with this reform.”

The Executive Order will be in effect until further notice. Under the order:

Restaurants currently licensed or permitted to serve prepared food may sell grocery items including, but not limited to, paper goods, cleaning supplies, prepared food in bulk, meat and vegetables whether or not those items are normally packaged for resale or are raw provided that certain provisions are followed.

This order does not permit a restaurant that does not hold a current license from the Arizona Department of Liquor Licensing and Control to sell alcoholic beverages.

View the Executive Order HERE.

Governor Ducey also provided assistance to restaurants and bars on March 31, 2020 by deferring the payment of all liquor licenses fees to the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control for 90 Days. More information on that action is available HERE.

Additionally, Governor Ducey yesterday signed an Executive Order halting evictions in the state for small businesses and nonprofits that are unable to pay rent due to financial hardship caused by COVID-19. View that Executive Order HERE.