20 SEPTEMBER 2019 By Miriam Cruson The excitement of the students and faculty of Biltmore Preparatory Academy on the first day of school could probably be felt from the redesigned parking lot. As they stepped on to school property, they were not only starting a new school year, but would also be introduced to the new pick-up/ drop-off system, new gym and transformed multipurpose room. It was truly a fresh start for everyone. “The building of the new gym, renovations to our middle school learning neighborhood, parking and front of the school adds an additional layer of excitement to our new school year,” said Dr. Stephanie DeMar, principal at Biltmore Prep. Vicente Teran of Chasse Building Team was the project manager that oversaw the construction at Biltmore Prep. “The project moved very smoothly. It is a really cool design. The gym is state-of- the-art for an elementary school. It really has a 21st century spin on your typical gym, especially with a cutting-edge rubber floor that helps create a safer place for the kids to run around and play,” Teran said. The outdoor basketball courts are also new and freshly painted in Biltmore Prep school colors. The construction for the gym started in December 2018 and concluded at the end of May 2019. Other activities that previously had to be held off-campus at other district schools, such as the Sweetheart Dance, will now be able to take place at the school. “Access to a gym opens doors of opportunity for our students. Our P.E. teacher and coach will be able to further focus on skill development and preparing students for participation in high school athletics,” DeMar said. The multipurpose building has been repurposed and is now home to the Makers Lab, which is an open, shared space where projects can occur to enhance learning. “This will allow for a diverse learning environment which will enable the students to interact in different ways. It provides a rich environment for more interaction, collaboration and communication within the learning environment,” PTO Secretary Katie Hesselman said. In this age of awakening when educators are utilizing various methodologies to teach future leaders, a Makers Lab (which allows for STEM studies in a dedicated space) is a crucial piece of the education puzzle. “The newly renovated middle school learning neighborhood features more flexible, open spaces and even an outdoor learning lab for students. The learning space provides opportunities for students to interact and engage socially with other students allowing them to make connections and learn in a variety of ways as we prepare our students to become biliterate, adventurous solution seekers,” said DeMar. Along with the new and improved buildings, the parking lot was demolished and rebuilt and a new drop off/pick up lane was created. “As a school community, we work to ensure we are delivering A+ education to our students and the renovations and additions to our campus now give the appearance of the quality education happening at Biltmore Prep.” The brand-new gym comes complete with state-of-the-art rubber flooring and Biltmore Prep spirit. The shade structure, when the sun hits just right, reminds students that they are leaders and thinkers. PHOTOS COURTESY OF STEPHANIE DEMAR Biltmore Prep gets a modern makeover Local Dentist Helps Uninsured Adults SPONSORED CONTENT Dr. Sophon Heng D.D.S. caters to those people who don’t have dental insurance. Dr. Heng provides comprehensive dental care exclusively to uninsured adults in a modern, yet modest office in Phoenix. Dr. Heng grew up in Seattle and graduated in 2001 from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco, and he relocated to Phoenix after graduation. “After watching the dental profession change,” said Dr. Heng, “I felt it had to be done a different way: ‘A Non-insured Way.’ We use the latest technology and treatment, yet we keep our facility modest and control our business overhead, which allows us to offer lower fees to serve the people in the community.” For example, Dr Heng’s office charges $599 for a lifelike crown made with latest materials and technology. His crowns are guaranteed for life against breakage or defects. There is never a charge for a so-called crown build up. Other dental offices could customarily run from $800 to $1200 or more for a similar crown in this area. Also, other general procedures in Dr. Heng’s office run 30-60% less than those typically charged. For example, $599 for a root canal, $499 for immediate denture (each), cleaning starts at $30. Patients often remark they find Dr. Heng’s office a breath of fresh air in an age where profit and greed driven corporations and “banksters” are invading every aspect of our lives, including our health care. “We have had a great response from all of our patients and we have met so many wonderful and appreciative people.” said office manager Channa. “We treat all of our patients like we would our own family.” “We explain to our patients that we don’t cut corners on care, treatment or materials,” said Karen, dental assistant. “We pride ourselves in treating people not just their teeth. We love dentistry and feel great about providing excellent care. We are driven by our desire to help others.” Many of Dr. Heng’s patients are young adults and seniors who have no dental insurance or have only a limited policy that gives them a few benefits and then charges more for their other needs. There is never a charge for an exam and x-ray, consultation and second opinions. Dr Heng offers no gimmicks, just modern quality dentistry at an affordable cost. Sophon Heng D.D.S. 602-703-1195 2600 N. 44th St., Ste. 106 | Phoenix, AZ 85008

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