Judge Davis, a West Valley resident for the past 35 years, and currently the Presiding Judge of Maricopa County has quite a bit under his belt. Not only does he have a wife and four children, but 11 grandchildren all vying for his attention, but has to ensure the protection of freedom within the court. He received his B.S. degree in accounting from Brigham Young University in 1972; and his J.D. degree for Arizona State University in 1975, where he served as Managing Editor of the Arizona State Law Journal.

Davis practiced general law for 19 years in the West Valley prior to his appointment to the Maricopa County Superior Court bench in June 1995 for Davis & Layton, P.C. of which he was a founding partner. His focus was in the areas of civil litigation, family law, bankruptcy, criminal law, estate planning, probate, real estate and commercial transactions

Since Judge Davis has served in not only the family, but, civil, criminal, probate, and juvenile departments of the court. Judge David was even given the honor of acting as Presiding Judge of the Northwest Regional Court from July 2002 to January 2004, as well as Presiding Judge of Family Court from June 2004 to June 2007, and Presiding Judge of Juvenile Court from June 2009 until March, 2010.
Judge Davis has served on numerous court committees, including the Court’s Pro Tem Committee, Commissioner Nomination Committee, Chair of the Self-Service Center Advisory Committee, and the eCourt Development Team. He was also a member of the Court’s Executive Committee from July 2002 to June 2007. Additionally he has served as a member of the Supreme Court Committee on Superior Court, Committee on Rules of Procedure in Domestic Relations Cases, Family Law Rules Review Committee, and the Child Support Committee. Despite

Judge Davis is very active in the community as well, he is a past member of the Agua Fria High School Board that got excellent Academic Excellence A+ Awards. He is also a past member and President of the Litchfield Elementary School Board and was even a member of the Estrella Rotary Club. Judge Davis also developed a pilot project to streamline family court procedures to reduce litigation and stress in family court disputes. His favorite place in the whole West Valley is Litchfield Park where he spends his time participating in the community, and with his wife. “I have a great fondness for the West Valley where my wife and I raised our family in a tranquil and supportive environment, where I started my legal career, and where I’ve come to develop friendships with a great number of wonderfully genuine and caring people.’ said Judge Davis. “My wife has been incredibly supportive and influential and made it possible for me to focus on my career. My maternal grandparents taught me the skills to be personally and professionally successful and demonstrated them with their incredible example.”

Years in West Valley: 35 years

Family: Wife: Sherry; 4 adult children; 11 grandchildren.

Who are and have been some of your mentors? My maternal grandparents, Judge Kimball Rose, Justice Charles E. Jones, Judge Barry Schneider.

What are some of the leadership positions directly you have taken on in the West Valley and what did you accomplish? Northwest Regional Superior Court Presiding Judge; assisted in planning and opening of new regional superior court center in Surprise & served as judge at that court; President & Member of Litchfield Elementary School District Board; New middle school built during this time, and schools received academic A+ excellence awards. Also member, Agua Fria Union High School Board, and involved in church leadership and scouting for many years.

Name a project in which you took a leadership role in that you are particularly proud of and why? While serving at the Northwest Regional Court Center in Surprise I developed a pilot project to streamline family court procedures to reduce litigation and stress in family court disputes that was subsequently adopted court-wide, and its concepts included in new statewide rules of procedure.

Favorite quote: “Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt.” –Abraham Lincoln

Who in history would you most like to have dinner with? My father who passed away when I was 2-years-old.

What’s your favorite book? “The Count of Monte Cristo” because it opened my mind to the importance of reading and learning as a teenager.

What you miss most? Political civility and cooperation.

What’s your biggest inspiration and why? My maternal grandparents. My grandmother taught me how to read at a young age and the importance of giving my best in everything I did. My grandfather taught me the meaning and joy of hard work. Both left an incredible legacy of honor, integrity and industry in the way they lived their lives that I envy.

What do you know about life that you wish you had known 10 to 20 years ago? Life seems to accelerate as you get older, and it is important to make good use of every day and hour.

What is your favorite place/feature in the West Valley? Litchfield Park where my wife and I raised our 4 children in association with great friends and neighbors.

What is your favorite cause? Helping to preserve our freedoms by working to provide fair and equal justice to every person. We have a judicial and governing system that exists to serve the people, and it is extremely important that everyone is protected by and subject to the rule of law.

Most overrated virtue: No true virtue can be overrated.

What would your super power be? The ability to leap tall curbs in a single bound.

Describe yourself as a child: I was very shy and mischievous.

What keeps you up at night? Bad food and creeping age, but not much else.

What’s your favorite food? Whatever my wife fixes.

What is your biggest pet peeve? Narcissism.

What would you choose to do, career wise, if you weren’t in your current career? I would have loved to be in the garage with Steve Jobs.

What would you do if you won the lottery? Continue to do what I’m doing now.

Greatest Extravagance: Probably our cabin up north.

Tell us something about you that perhaps the average person wouldn’t know? Several years ago, I persuaded my family to assist in building a cabin. Being only able to work on it on Saturdays, holidays and vacations, it took the better part of 4 years, but we completed it. The best part is every member of the family, including the young grandchildren, have taken ownership in what they built and all look forward to spending time there.

What originally drew you to the West Valley? I moved to the West Valley to start a law firm.

How did you get into your current career field? After 20 years of the general practice of law in the West Valley, I applied through the merit selection process and was fortunate to be selected by the Governor for an appointment to the Superior Court bench in 1995.

What drives you? Somewhere in my DNA is the need to strive for excellence and make a difference. Probably a result of the tremendous legacy taught to me by my grandparents.

What are your goals (career, personal or for the West Valley)? As Presiding Judge of the 4th largest trial court in the nation, I work in an environment that expects, and frequently achieves, excellence. My goal is for out court to continue to be the best trial court in the country, make the court system accessible and user-friendly to everyone, and through the use of technology and innovation, streamline court processes and reduce their cost wherever possible.

What is the secret to your success? Hard work, collaboration, consensus building, and a willingness to take risks.

What would you recommend to people looking to make a difference in the West Valley? I would recommend they get involved in their community in whatever endeavor they are passionate about.

Robert Handy lives in Phoenix with his Wife, Jennifer and two daughters, Caitlyn (19) and Madalyne (17). In 2008 he oversaw the construction of the new Estrella Mountain police precinct. In addition, he also oversaw the re-drawing of all of the police precinct boundaries, meeting with dozens of neighborhood and community groups throughout the City of Phoenix.

Handy is currently President of Arizona Chapter of the FBI National Academy Associates: a 350 member professional development organization for local law enforcement leaders. He is also the creator and Director of Arizona Leadership Education and Development Academy (ALEAD) which is a youth leadership program held every summer for youth from all over Arizona. The development of the ALEAD is one of the projects he is particularly proud to have been a part of. Handy was the founding director and has been very involved since its inception. The idea started with a brainstorming session on where to put some of the professional organization’s community service resources. From the original idea, a week long in-residence youth academy was developed in Flagstaff for teenage kids from across Arizona. The program was fully funded by the ALEAD so students did not have to pay. It was a life changing experience for some of the kids who attended. ALEAD just completed their third year and are already preparing for the summer of 2012.

Handy serves a variety of community organizations in Maryvale: Maryvale YMCA, Maryvale Revitalization Corporation, Maryvale Association of Churches, McDowell Corridor Community Alliance His favorite cause is The 100 Club of Arizona. They provide assistance to the families of public safety officials who are killed or injured in the line of duty, providing dozens of scholarships and money for safety equipment to cash strapped police and fire departments.

When asked how the West Valley has affected him, Handy responded, “I believe the West Valley has helped keep me grounded and keep life in perspective. The diversity and richness of the community combined with the commitment and character of the people I have met in the West Valley are truly amazing. It is my hope that in some small way I help to improve the quality of life for those who live in the West Valley. The most significant challenge I face at work is the erosion of personal values. Much of the negative side of police work stems from the erosion of basic values. We constantly deal with people who have lost the most basic respect for themselves and others. The current recession is the most significant issue facing the West Valley. The dramatic slow down of business and residential relocation and development threatens the future prosperity of the West Valley. Public safety is the most basic need for future development. The area must continue to see decreasing crime rates and an increased quality of life in order to be successful. The men and women of the Maryvale Precinct work tirelessly everyday to reduce crime and improve the quality of life for our residents and visitors.”

Years in West Valley: 17

Who are and have been some of your mentors? I have been very fortunate to have had many terrific leaders at the Phoenix Police Department who have provided mentorship to me over the years.

Favorite quote: “I find that the harder I work, the more luck I have” Thomas Jefferson

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

What’s your favorite book? All of Tom Clancy’s novels.

What’s your favorite musical group? U2

What you miss most? Being young

What’s your biggest inspiration and why? My daughters, because they talented, driven, and destined for great things.

What do you know about life that you wish you had known 10 to 20 years ago? Life goes way too fast, children grow up way too soon, and you should never stop learning.

What is your favorite place/feature in the West Valley? The variety of sporting venues.

Most coveted: Maryvale Ballpark

Most overrated virtue: Patience

What would your super power be? Batman

Describe yourself as a child: Always dirty and full of mischief.

What keeps you up at night? Worrying about the safety of the men and women who patrol our streets.

One phrase you wish people wouldn’t say, or would say more: I wish people would not say somebody “got lucky” when they achieve success.

What’s your favorite food? Mexican food

What is your biggest pet peeve? Mediocrity

What would you choose to do, career wise, if you weren’t in your current career? Lawyer

What would you do if you won the lottery? Retire and become a rancher.

What do you do during lunchtime? Eat too much.

Greatest Extravagance: Hunting and fishing trips.

Tell us something about you that perhaps the average person wouldn’t know? I grew up in Phoenix and graduated form both U of A and ASU.

What originally drew you to the West Valley? I grew up in what was the west valley at the time. I returned as an adult with my family because we enjoy the amenities of the West Valley and the casual working class atmosphere.

How did you get into your current career field? I got a “C” in biology in college and began looking for an easier vocation.

What drives you? Meeting new people and taking on new challenges.

What are your goals (career, personal or for the West Valley)? I would like to be able to be in a position with regard to time and finances to assist my children when they are ready they start their families.

What is the secret to your success? A supportive wife and family.

What would you recommend to people looking to make a difference in the West Valley? Get involved! There are so many organizations and opportunities to make a difference, just do it!

Who was an influence in your life/career, and how did they affect what you do? My parents who have physically worked hard their entire lives were a tremendous influence on my career. They taught me a strong work ethic and low tolerance for laziness.

Fred Kriess, has been a west valley resident for 33 years. He and his wife Sandra moved here from Butler Pennsylvania in June, 1978 and this quickly became their new home. Fred is a graduate of Westminster College and received his Master’s degree in Environmental Health from the University of Pittsburgh. He has also completed numerous leadership development programs. He and Sandra have 3 children, the oldest, Jason has followed in Fred’s footsteps and is a senior plant operator for American Water in Sun City. Fred and Jason are one of the few father/son duos in the state of Arizona who hold the highest level of professional certifications in the water/waste-water utility industry.

Fred spent the first 20 years of his career in Arizona working for the water/waste-water utility, then called Citizens Utilities that serviced the Sun Cities and its surrounding areas. He literally began his career “from the ground up” working as a plant operator, meter reader, etc. and generally doing whatever needed to be done. He became General Manager of the utility in 1988 and served in that capacity until he moved into a government relations position which is a part of Citizens Utilities in 1998. He continued performing in that role until 2001 when he launched a new career in the water/waste-water industry working in the field of public – private partnerships.

Kriess led efforts to institute a water conservation and awareness program for the communities of Sun City and Sun City West. “The key was getting customer input and involvement and actively listening to their ideas and input,” said Kriess.

Fred is currently Area Business Development Manager for Severn Trent Environmental Services, a global company that specializes in helping cities and towns with their water and wastewater utility issues. He continues to be based in the northwest valley area and works in maintaining the professional relationships he has built up over his many years working in the area. He also has taken a key role in promoting safety and has been known as “Mr. Safety” for his attention to keeping others around him from getting hurt.

Fred has been active in a number of organizations over the years, including the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation as a member of its Board of Directors and multiple professional associations. He is a frequent speaker at trade conferences throughout Arizona and has a passion for development of young leaders in the industry. He also worked as a minister of music in local churches for many years and continues his interest in music by providing entertainment at Arrowhead Country Club on Friday evenings once a month. He is also doing great work in the AZ Water Association, American Water Works Association, Water Environment Federation, American Public Works Association, and National Association of Water Companies. His primary goal is to be a mentor and leader of his family and a role model for children and dedicated husband for his wife. After that, Kriess wants to make a positive difference in the lives of others. “To me that, is the essence of life and what really matters.” He says, “I would like for my legacy to be that I have helped others be successful.”

Fred’s desire for his legacy and primary goal in life is to make a positive difference in the lives of others while working to ensure that we continue to receive the essential public services of water delivery and wastewater treatment. This is one person that is ready to make life in the west valley better and isn’t afraid to get his feet wet.

Years in the West Valley: 33 years

Favorite quote: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things that I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference”.

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

What’s your favorite book? “Attitude is everything” by Keith Harrell.

What’s your favorite musical group or musician? John Tesh

What you miss most? The seasons of my native state Pennsylvania.

What’s your biggest inspiration and why? Seeing my children who have all grown up into very fine young adults.

What do you know about life that you wish you had known 10 to 20 years ago? Patience is a true virtue. Things are never as bad as they first seem.

What is your favorite place in the West Valley? Without a doubt Westgate.

Most coveted: Peace and Harmony

What is your favorite cause? Leadership Development and teaching young leaders about the mistakes that I have made and the lessons of experience so that they avoid making the same mistakes.

What would your super power be? Ability to stay focused in the midst of stress and turmoil.

What’s your nickname? Mr. Nice Guy

Describe yourself as a child: I guess I was kind of a nerd. Wore thick black glasses and was a bookworm. Also pretty clumsy in athletics until I hit my stride in my senior year of high school. Couldn’t get a date.

What keeps you up at night? Wondering about the future of our country and how we can restore ourselves again to being the world’s leader.

One phrase you wish people would say more: I wish that everyone would remember to say two simple words – “Thank You”.

What’s your favorite food? Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate.

What is your biggest pet peeve? People who are so full of themselves and absolutely have no patience and give entry-level workers a real hard time over nothing.

What would you choose to do, career wise, if you weren’t in your current career? I would have gone to medical school and been a general practitioner/family doctor.

What would you do if you won the lottery? Build a music studio and record music and spend my time in leadership development and helping others to be successful.

What do you do during lunchtime? Dream about the future and following my passion.

Greatest Extravagance: I guess I have had my mid life crisis. Earlier this year, I splurged and decided to get myself black European sports sedan.

They say those who can’t, teach, but even those who can, teach, and go twelve steps further. The same can be said about Gail Pletnick, Superintendent of the Dysart Unified School District. Over the last 5 years she and the district has made great gains in providing a quality education that prepares students for challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. In her first year of superintendency, Pletnick focused on continually driving improvements in student achievement through a strategic planning process, thus providing ever-increasing opportunities for expanded and relevant learning opportunities.

Besides being a Superintendent, Gail Pletnick has done numerous things for the community including being a board member of the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce, Rio Salado Advisory Board and American Association of School Administrators. As well as being a member of the Kiwanis Club, Surprise-El Mirage PTA Council, Arizona School Administrators and American Association of University Women, (AAUW). As a member of the Dysart Education Foundation, she has worked with the dedicated Board Members to raise funds that have been utilized to provide annual scholarships to graduating students from the Dysart Unified District who show financial need. As a member of Leadership West, Pletnick worked on a project that developed a Virtual Career Exploration program for middle-aged students providing information on careers by highlighting West Valley community members in their work roles.

Gail is most proud of her leadership role when she was in a partnership with, Rio Salado Community College and Dysart USD. She was involved in developing the Next Steps Program that provided high school girls with an opportunity to learn more about career opportunities available to them while being mentored one-on-one by women who were role models and supporters. The group of girls who participated in the program did not have the type of supports in place to open the doors for them to explore the post secondary and career options that are now available to them.

Gail was drawn to the West Valley for its opportunities for supporting and enjoying any phase of life from childhood, through raising a family to retirement. She was drawn to the wide range of options and opportunities in work, homes, entertainment, and more. Her goals for the West Valley include making it a place that continues to draw people who want to contribute to the quality of life. She advises people who want to change in the West Valley to educate and get involved in local government, educational institutions, business organizations, or leadership and civic groups. Being informed and building a network with those who are working to make a difference provides a myriad of opportunities for involvement.

Gail explains how the West Valley has affected her and how she has done in turn. “The leaders I have met in the West Valley have inspired me to become more involved and do what I can to contribute to the success of the West Valley. I have and will continue to look for opportunities where my experiences and skills contribute to positive growth in the West Valley. Through my commitment to education from the pre-school level to post graduate, I believe I have affected the West Valley. The secret to my success is caring about what I do and wanting to make a difference. I hope that others believe the same.” said Pletnick.

“Dr. Pletnick is able to handle a high degree of complexity in solving problems by bringing together multiple resources to get the best information possible and then critically evaluating the information to develop solutions.” said Dr, Cyndi Miller, Assistant Superintendent. “She leads by example in setting high standards of excellence for the school district. Students, teachers, administrators, and community members can rely on Dr. Pletnick to demonstrate her commitment to student success in everything she does.”

Years in West Valley: 15 years

Family: Husband of 37 years Edward Pletnick. Two sons & daughter-in-laws: Dr. Chad Pletnick, an Anesthesiologist in Oro Valley, AZ and wife Heather and Ryan Pletnick, a teacher and coach in the Cave Creek Unified District, AZ and wife Lesley plus 3 grandsons and a granddaughter on the way.

Who are and have been some of your mentors? I have been fortunate to have a number of professional and personal mentors in my life. The person who was most influential as a mentor was my father. He was a model of integrity and kindness with a strong work ethic and love of family.

Favorite quote: You can do or be whatever you desire with dedication and hard work.

Who in history would you most like to have dinner with? Pope John Paul II

What’s your favorite book? Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln

What’s your favorite musical group or person? Neil Diamond, an oldie but goodie

What you miss most? Spending time with my father who passed away many years ago.

What’s your biggest inspiration and why? My family. I have so many models in my family of people who have overcome obstacles and have done so with dignity and respect. My own children and grandchildren remind me everyday of the power of caring and love.

What do you know about life that you wish you had known 10 to 20 years ago? How quickly time passes-so savor every moment.

What is your favorite place/feature in the West Valley? The West Valley is filled with wonderful places: I love walking or biking around the Arrowhead Lakes area where I live. I enjoy sporting and entertainment events at Westgate and dining any where along the Bell Ave. corridor, and Hiking on Thunderbird Mountain is always fun.

Most coveted: Respect I earn from those I most admire.

What is your favorite cause? Supporting education. That may mean supporting scholarships for students in need; advocating for programs and policies; or educating or mentoring others on the power of education.

Most overrated virtue: Orderliness. All someone has to do is look at my desk and know that that is not a virtue I can claim.

What would your super power be? Reading hearts and minds.

What’s your nickname? My grandchildren call me Babcai, which is grandmother in Polish.

Describe yourself as a child: Shy but active.

What keeps you up at night? Thinking about the challenges our state faces especially in critical areas like education.

One phrase you wish people wouldn’t say more: “I can’t “ is a term that is often used too frequently. I would like it replaced by “I’ll try!”

What’s your favorite food? Pizza

What is your biggest pet peeve? Red light runners.

What would you choose to do, career wise, if you weren’t in your current career? Anything in the travel industry.

What would you do if you won the lottery? Fund my grandchildren’s post secondary education and set up a scholarship fund for students who have beat the odds and want to continue their education after high school graduation. I’d like to fit a cruise in for myself as well.

What do you do during lunchtime? Those I work with would tell you lunch is not an option when I am working. I do tend to forget about eating until others remind me I am starving them too.

Greatest Extravagance: An occasional dinner in a very nice restaurant.

Surprise School One of About 60 Businesses Recognized Last Week at Awards Ceremony

From the moment it opened its doors, Arizona Charter Academy has been focused on providing a supportive, positive and embracing culture for both its students and staff members.

Last week, the school was recognized for its ability to consistently meet this goal as well as others when it was named as one of “Arizona’s Most Admired Companies.” The award ceremony was held on September 7 at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix. This marks the second consecutive year that the Surprise school received this prestigious honor.

Arizona Business Magazine and Best Companies AZ teamed up to recognize the contributions and impact that local companies bring to the state. Award categories included Workplace Culture, Leadership Experience, Corporate and Social Responsibility and Customer Opinion.

Chief Operations Officer Melissa Holdaway said the award is based on employee, customer and community opinions and focuses on companies with more than 25 employees.

“We are so proud to have been chosen as one of the most admired companies for the second year in a row,” she said. “Since the beginning, we have worked hard to build a positive culture that embraces racial and economic diversity in a safe and welcoming environment.  To be recognized for that with such a wonderful award is really very gratifying to everyone who works here.”

Examples of the school’s outstanding community atmosphere, Holdaway said, include a strong commitment to the community through projects like hosting blood drives and building a house from the ground up for a family in need every year along with shared decision making and leadership opportunities for staff.

For more information about Arizona Charter Academy and the “Arizona’s Most Admired Companies” award, or to speak with a student or staff member about what makes the school special to them, contact Melissa Holdaway at 623-974-4959 or 602-478-8793.