ARCADIAPEDIATRICDENTAL.COM Accepting New Patients 36 SEPTEMBER 2024 By Lauren Geiser After 24 years of dedicated service, Peggy Sandahl has retired from her role as the administrative assistant at St. Theresa Catholic School. Her departure marks the end of an era, but a new staff member – Danielle Markle – is eager to continue the tradition of excellence. Danielle’s journey to St. Theresa is rooted in deep faith and a passion for education. A recent graduate of Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management with a minor in Theology. “Franciscan University is on fire for the faith and is a sense of community of saints in the making,” Danielle said. “I knew I wanted to find that sense of community after I graduated, and I am happy to say that I have found it at St. Theresa.” Before accepting the position, Danielle visited Arizona a few times, where she enjoyed paddle-boarding on Lake Pleasant and soaking in the natural beauty of the Grand Canyon state. She looks forward to lacing up her hiking shoes to continue her outdoor adventures once the weather cools down. As the new administrative assistant, Danielle’s role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities designed to ensure the smooth operation of the school. All phone calls and visitors will first encounter Danielle’s friendly demeanor before proceeding. She will also manage the school’s security protocols, including greeting and granting campus access. Her role is important for the school’s function, and Danielle will be the first point of contact for everyone at St. Theresa. “I am the first person people hear and see, so it is very important to me that everyone feels welcome when they visit St. Theresa’s,” she said. Looking ahead, Danielle expressed excitement about the changes under Principal Mary Pivonka. “Mary brought many new improvements that are rooted in the Catholic faith,” she said. “The future of St. Theresa is incredibly promising and it has been wonderful to see the children so excited about coming here to learn.” Taking over from someone as cherished as Peggy is no small task, but Danielle approaches the challenge with confidence and a deep respect for the legacy she inherits. “Peggy was a blessing to all students and families who have come to St. Theresa’s,” she said. “She has made an incredible impact here and I am thrilled to continue in her footsteps.” As Danielle settles into her new role, she is ready to make her mark and build upon the strong foundation set by her predecessor. With her background in faith and business management alongside her enthusiasm for the school’s future, Danielle is eager to make a meaningful impact at St. Theresa Catholic School. Farewell, Peggy, and welcome to St. Theresa, Danielle! Danielle Markle and Peggy Sandahl. PHOTO COURTESY OF DANIELLE MARKLE

NATHAN ANDERSON + PAUL NICOLETTI 480.888.5800 | NATEANDPAUL.COM If you are currently working with an agent, please disregard. NATHAN ANDERSON + PAUL NICOLETTI ROC #314154 Be a neighbor in the know! Interested in what our next project will be? We have several projects coming soon. Scan the QR code above! 3820 E MONTEROSA STREET AUSSIE MODERN | $2,495,000 3809 N 51ST STREET QUINTESSENTIAL RANCH | $1,470,000 4620 N 68TH STREET #163 STR IN HOPI | $360,000 4501 E TURNEY AVENUE COASTAL MODERN | $2,750,000 Pass or Punt? Don’t wait to score your next Home or Investment Property... Call Us Today! 37 SEPTEMBER 2024 By Lauren Geiser With the new school year underway, Xavier’s softball team is gearing up for an exciting season under the leadership of a familiar – yet fresh – coaching team. Father-daughter duo Sydnie and Tom Sahhar, alongside assistant coach Brian McNerney, are ready to bring experience and energy to the program. Sydnie and Tom said they are particularly enthusiastic about the chance to work alongside one another and collaborate in a new way. “It’s exciting to work together beyond the usual player-coach dynamic,” Sydnie said. “We’ve been on the field together for 15 years, so while it’s not entirely new, this role is different. I’m looking forward to it.” Tom echoed his daughter’s sentiment, adding, “This is a new chapter for us, and we’re eager to see what we can accomplish.” Tom and Brian are no strangers to Xavier, having been integral to the softball team’s success over the past four years. Together, they have led the team to three state titles. Tom praised McNerney’s contributions, saying, “Brian is a tremendous asset to the team. His experience with the JV squad and his familiarity with the players make him invaluable.” Sydnie’s journey with softball began at the age of eight, starting with Little League and progressing to club ball, where her father volunteered as an assistant coach. Having played at Grand Canyon University and Azusa Pacific University, Sydnie hopes to brings a fresh perspective. “I’ve always loved softball,” Sydnie said. “Playing in college taught me so much, and I’m excited to bring that experience to Xavier. I know what it takes to play at the collegiate level, and I’m eager to help these girls reach their full potential.” Sydnie also holds a Master’s in psychology, which she plans to leverage in creating a positive and supportive environment for her players. Her background in sports and psychology will play a key role in her coaching approach, which will focus on mental toughness and overall well-being. During the school day, Sydnie works as a school counselor at Xavier. “I believe in building athletes up through fundamental skills and helping them grow in their faith and confidence,” she said. Tryouts for the team begin in early February. Tom emphasized the importance of preparation, especially for those new to the sport. “If you’ve never picked up a ball, start now, work hard and prepare yourself,” he said. “Xavier offers multiple levels for sports, so there’s a place for everyone who wants to be involved.” As they enter their new roles, Sydnie and Tom are eager for the start of the season. With a dedicated coaching team and a shared vision for success, Xavier Prep softball is set for a season of growth, teamwork and excellence. Xavier softball is a family affair Father-daughter duo Sydnie (who played college ball at Azusa Pacific) and Tom Sahhar look to bring experience and energy to the softball program at Xavier. PHOTOS COURTESY OF XAVIER PREP