Home Care In Fountain Hills, AZ

Times Independent file photo

Posted Thursday, March 28, 2024 3:02 pm

The Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce recently announced several updates tailored especially for those who prefer stability amidst change, a press release read.

The updates include six months of additional Wine Walk events, First Fridays in May, new success programming, an additional Industry Stakeholders Network and the merging of Oktoberfest with Fountain Hills Day.

The Chamber has announced six months of Wine Walks sponsored by The Avenue Merchants Association (TAMA) where Fountain Hills residents and visitors can stroll the Avenue of the Fountains enjoying local merchants while sipping wine.

The last Wine Walk until the fall is Friday, April 5, at the corner of Avenue of the Fountains and Verde River Drive near the Executive Suites from 3 to 6 p.m.

The Chamber also announced First Fridays in May where the community can ease into the summer season with the Chamber’s First Fridays initiative designed to offer ongoing support to local businesses while providing a fun atmosphere for the community to enjoy.

New success programming has also been announced, meant to elevate participant skills and knowledge and aimed at providing valuable continuing education opportunities for personal and professional growth.

An upcoming speed networking event concludes this six-month educational and networking program.

A new Industry Stakeholders Network has also been introduced with like-minded professionals at one of the many Chamber focus groups including TAMA, First Fridays and Health Services.

Last but not least, “Fountain Hills Day 10x’d” pays homage to the beloved Oktoberfest tradition with a revamped Fountain Hills Day, the release said.

With Oktoberfest bids farewell as a standalone event, the Chamber is embracing its spirit and integrating it into a successful celebration of all that is Fountain Hills, the release continued.

The Fountain Hills Chamber understands the importance of preserving what makes Fountain Hills unique while adapting to changing times. The chamber has considered the evolution of events, particularly in light of the increasing popularity of Oktoberfest celebrations across the region.

According to the press release, the decision to merge Oktoberfest with Fountain Hills Day (slated for the last Saturday of each September starting in 2025) aims to create a comprehensive experience that encapsulates the essence of the community.

This unified event will showcase everything that makes Fountain Hills special including the Taste of Fountain Hills, Kids Expo, Ferris wheel, Car Show, Home and Garden Expo, Health and Wellness Expo, Wild About Pets Expo, live music and Philanthropy Expo.

Community members are invited to mark their calendars and join in these upcoming events that honor the past while embracing the future.

For more information about the Chamber of Commerce, visit fhchamber.com.

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With the sanctions Allen Skillicorn can no longer become vice-mayor, use taxpayer money to travel for events and meetings, or physically meet with workers.

FOUNTAIN HILLS, Ariz. — A Fountain Hills councilman who violated his town’s code of ethics was hit with serious sanctions.

Some members of the council say they have never handed down sanctions of this level before.

In a split vote, Fountain Hills Councilman Allen Skillicorn can no longer become vice-mayor, use taxpayer money to travel for events and meetings or physically meet with workers unless another worker is there with them.

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Skillicorn addressed the decision moments after it happened during a break at Tuesday night’s town council meeting

“Purely it’s a partisan political hit job and its completely meaningless and it’s a waste of time,” Skillicorn said.

Documents obtained by 12News claim Skillicorn violated ethics rules when he reportedly chased down a Code Compliance Officer who removed one of the councilman's political signs that was placed illegally according to the document.

Vice-mayor Sharron Grzybowski, Councilwoman Brenda Kalivianakis and Pamela Cap filed the complaint.

It claims Skillicorn drove "aggressively" toward the worker while flashing his car's high beams while in his car. The worker said he felt unsafe in the situation and contacted a Maricopa County Sheriff's Deputy who was nearby.

Another complaint filed by Vice-Mayor Grzybowski against Skillicorn claims he violated the Code of Ethics when he implied the council members had "inappropriate conversations" with a developer and took campaign contributions from them. It happened during a town council meeting in the middle of January.

The Fountain Hills Town Council Chambers were packed Tuesday night. One side of the room supported the Councilman, the other side was against his actions.

During public comment, those who wanted to see sanctions given to Skillicorn said he brings shame to their town.

Skillicorn’s supporters said these ethics violations are part of a political game against the councilmember and no sanctions should be given.

Some said Skillicorn should be able to publicly defend himself from these complaints during the council meeting.

When that time came following public comment, Skillicorn waived the right to discuss it.

This is a developing story.

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The investigation into Council member Allen Skillicorn found he violated the Council's Code of Ethics.

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FOUNTAIN HILLS, Ariz. — An investigation into a Fountain Hills council member claims he violated the town's Code of Ethics on at least two occasions.

Allen Skillicorn said on Tuesday the allegations against him are baseless and a "political smear."

Documents obtained by 12News claim Skillicorn violated ethics rules when he reportedly chased down a Code Compliance Officer who removed one of the councilman's political signs that was placed illegally according to the document.

Vice-mayor Sharron Grzybowski, Councilwoman Brenda Kalivianakis and Pamela Cap filed the complaint.

It claims Skillicorn drove "aggressively" toward the worker while flashing his car's high beams while in his car. The worker said he felt unsafe in the situation and contacted a Maricopa County Sheriff's Deputy who was nearby.

Skillicorn said the incident was blown out of proportion and claimed the allegations of what happened were not true.

“I think it’s ridiculous," Skillicorn said. "Frankly, the person was violating my civil rights he violated the constitution.”

Another complaint filed by Vice-Mayor Grzybowski against Skillicorn claims he violated the Code of Ethics when he implied the council members had "inappropriate conversations" with a developer and taken campaign contributions from them. It happened during a town council meeting in the middle of January.

The town council was set to vote on potential sanctions against Skillicorn until an executive session was called the discussion was pushed back to the next town council meeting.

It led to frustration within the packed council chambers split 50/50 on the situation. Fountain Hills resident Cindy Couture said she was set to speak on the matter during public comment.

“Well, I was going to say that I am disappointed that Allen Skillicorn is ruining our reputation across the Valley,” she said.

Ashley Earle who was seen passing out stickers that supported Skillicorn said what the council members have endured is unfair.

“I feel that [Skillicorn] is being targeted unfairly,” she added.

Skillicorn said he could not comment on what was discussed during the executive session but said he wanted the decision to happen on Tuesday.

“They are just doing this to embarrass me and they want me to embarrass myself and frankly they are embarrassing themselves,” Skillicorn said.

The council will vote on possible sanctions at the next town council meeting scheduled for March 19.

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Fountain Hills is proud to announce that its 2024 Visitors Guide is available for pickup at an array of locations, including the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce, Cards of Fountain Hills, Euro Pizza Café, and all local hotels. With over 50 events every year ranging from food, holidays, art, and science, the community is offering something for everyone.

“We are excited to look ahead to 2024,” said Economic Development Specialist John Perez. “Our town is a great place for out-of-towners and locals to enjoy the serene atmosphere of the historic town. We hope that you will come out and experience all that we have to offer.”

A Preview of Fountain Hills’ 2024 Events

Art on the Avenue

Every Wednesday through April 2024 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Avenue of the Fountains, 16858 Avenue of the Fountains

Free admission

Art on the Avenue was established to provide numerous Valley artists with the opportunity to share and promote their one-of-a-kind pieces at the Avenue of the Fountains, an equally unique outdoor gallery.

The Farmers Market

Every Wednesday through April 2024 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Avenue of the Fountains, 16858 Avenue of the Fountains

Free admission

The Farmers Market includes over 50 food, health, and wellness vendors from all over the Valley, food trucks, and two live music stations. The market also includes vendors like farmers, fishermen, cattle and chicken ranchers, a variety of bakers and chefs selling fresh and frozen products, fresh flowers, ethnic foods, gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options, homemade soaps, wellness tinctures, and so much more.

Concours in the Hills

Feb. 3, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Fountain Park, 12925 N. Saguaro Blvd.

Also known as the “Greatest Car Show on Grass,” the Gila River Resorts & Casinos Concours in the Hills is celebrating its 10th anniversary on Saturday, Feb. 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Fountain Park in Fountain Hills. This free, family-friendly event benefits Phoenix Children’s Hope Fund, a critical source of funding for the hospital’s areas of greatest need.

50th Anniversary of the Fountain Hills Fountain Festival of Fine Arts and Crafts

Feb. 23-25, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Avenue of the Fountains, 16858 Avenue of the Fountains

Free admission

This annual festival showcases the remarkable talents of over 400 artists and artisans from across the country with a diverse range of artwork including paintings, sculptures, ceramics and jewelry.

Irish Fountain Fest

March 16, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Fountain Park, 12925 N. Saguaro Blvd.

Free admission

Irish Fountain Fest is a family-friendly event to kick off St. Patrick’s Day celebrations with food, music, dancing and more.

Greening of the Fountain

March 17, 2024, at noon

Fountain Park, 12925 N. Saguaro Blvd.

Fountain Hills turns its world-famous fountain a dazzling emerald green in celebration of St. Patrick's Day.

Dark Sky Festival

March 30, 2024 from 4 to 9 p.m.

Fountain Hills Community Center, 13001 N. La Montana Drive

Free admission

Celebrate Fountain Hills’ distinction as an International Dark Sky Community at the annual Dark Sky Festival. There will be hands-on activities, live nocturnal animals, fun exhibits, live music, food trucks, a beer and wine garden, student art contest and more.

Fountain Hills Music Fest

April 6, 2024, from 5 to 10 p.m.

Fountain Park, 12925 N. Saguaro Blvd.

Free admission

Experience our stunning spring weather at the Fountain Hills Music Festival. Enjoy three outdoor musical performances with family and friends. Bring blankets and chairs and savor food from food trucks, a beer garden by Bone Haus Brewing and a wine garden by Grapeables Wine Bar.

Concerts on the Avenue

April 4, 11, 18, 25, 2024 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Avenue of the Fountains, 16858 Avenue of the Fountains

Free admission

Enjoy live music along the Avenue of the Fountains with the evening concert series Thursdays in April from 6 to 8 p.m. The concerts showcase some of the Valley’s best bands and a variety of music options to suit everyone’s taste. Each evening will have an acoustic musician and a band. Yards games will be spread throughout the Avenue and docents available for self-guided art walk tours. Pack a picnic or enjoy dining at one of the restaurants on the Avenue. Feel free to bring a blanket or lawn chairs. This free entertainment at all of our concerts is suitable for the whole family.

Fall 2024 Events

Events in the fall include but are not limited to Ballet Under the Stars, Spooky Blast, Fountain Festival of Fine Arts and Crafts, the 34th Annual Turkey Trot 5K Run and Fitness Walk, 40th Anniversary Thanksgiving Day Parade, Stroll in the Glow and Season’s Celebrations.

For more information about Fountain Hills’ events, visit experiencefountainhills.org or follow Fountain Hills on Instagram @experiencefountainhills.

“The Grand Menorah Lighting on the Avenue” is held Sunday, Dec. 10, at 4:30 p.m. (Times Independent file photo)

Posted Friday, November 24, 2023 11:30 am

The Chabad of Fountain Hills will ignite a public 12-foot menorah erected on the Avenue of the Fountains followed by a community-wide celebration.

The Grand Menorah Lighting on the Avenue is held Sunday, Dec. 10, at 4:30 p.m. The ceremony will feature local dignitaries, live music, holiday delicacies, crafts for children and more.

The event is free and open to the public.

“The menorah serves as a symbol of Fountain Hills’ dedication to preserve and encourage the right and liberty of all its citizens to worship G-d freely, openly and with pride,” Chabad Rabbi Mendy Lipskier, who organizes the annual event, said. “Specifically in America, a nation that was founded upon and vigorously protects the right of every person to practice his or her religion free from restraint and persecution, the menorah takes on profound significance, embodying both religious and constitutional principles.”

Marisa Phillippi is a Fountain Hills resident who is looking forward to attending the public menorah lighting.

“I want my grandchildren to grow up with pride in their Jewish heritage. Chabad’s Chanukah menorahs educate the children and community about the importance of ‘bringing the light,’” Philippi said.

Worldwide observance

Fountain Hills’ menorah is one of thousands of large public menorahs sponsored by Chabad throughout the world, helping children and adults from all walks of life discover and enjoy the holiday message.

Throughout Arizona, Chabad will be presenting scores of Chanukah events and celebrations including public menorah lightings, giant menorahs, menorah parades, latkes parties, giant dreidel houses, “Chanukah Wonderlands” and more.

Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, recalls the victory more than 2,100 years ago of a militarily weak but spiritually strong Jewish people who defeated a ruthless enemy that had overrun ancient Israel and sought to impose restrictions on the Jewish way of life, prohibit religious freedom and force the Jewish people to accept a foreign religion, a press release read.

“During the occupation of Jerusalem and the Temple, the Syrian Greeks desecrated and defiled the oils prepared for the lighting of the menorah, which was part of the daily service in the temple,” the press release continued. “Upon recapturing the Temple from the Syrian Greeks, the Jewish people found only one jar of undefiled oil, enough to burn only one day, but it lasted miraculously for eight days until new, pure olive oil was produced.”

In commemoration of this event, the Jewish people celebrate Chanukah for eight days by lighting an eight-branched candelabra known as a menorah.

The menorah is placed in a highly visible place to publicize the miracle with its message of hope and religious freedom to all.

Today, people of all faiths consider the Chanukah holiday as a symbol and message of the triumph of freedom over oppression, of spirit over matter and of light over darkness, the release said. For more information, contact Rabbi Mendy Lipskier by email at [email protected] or by calling 480-795-6292.

To find a local event in Arizona or anywhere throughout the world visit Chabad.org/ChanukahEvents.