They come from all parts of the Valley — 475 men, women, teens and children — and spend countless hours in practice and performances during the month leading up to Easter. The goal: presenting to the community the story of the life and mission of Jesus Christ in music, drama and dance.

This week's "Jack the Giant Slayer," a 3-D retelling of the Jack and the Beanstalk legend, contains all the elements of the classic tale: farm boy, beans, giants, etc. But along for the ride is a new character, Princess Isabelle, played by Eleanor Tomlinson.

Nearly 20 students from Mountain Pointe High School gave spectators a glimpse into their daily physical education activities on Thursday at the Arizona Adapted Physical Education Conference in Phoenix.

Jessica Starr was never one to take no as an answer.

Dance Studio 111

It’s tough to get a word in as longtime Ahwatukee Foothills residents flip through old photo books and compile memories of the early days of Ahwatukee.

As the wife of a battalion commander and 20-year veteran of the United States Army, Bianca Caryl knows the kind of sacrifices made by members of the military.

As the wife of a battalion commander and 20-year veteran of the United States Army, Bianca Caryl knows the kind of sacrifices made by members of the military.

A total of 32 Phoenix nonprofit arts and culture organizations received $525,346 in grant funding in the 2012-13 fiscal year from the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture.

Saturday, Nov. 24

Through Dec. 24

The community is invited to the Third Annual Palo Verde Award Gala on Saturday, Nov. 3, starting at 6 p.m., at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass, 5594 W. Wild Horse Pass Blvd. in Chandler. The event will feature the presentation of the Palo Verde Award, honoring the 2012 Business Woman of the Year and recognizing a female chamber member’s personal achievements in business and community service.

Three Ahwatukee Foothills Girl Scouts are collecting new or gently used books for underprivileged children at Phoenix Day.

Lights, students, action.

Often when Ricky Gervais’ best friend, Karl Pilkington, calls, the conversation immediately begins with a random and innocuous question.

Making the jump from middle to high school is a momentous occasion.

Making the jump from middle to high school is a momentous occasion.

New or slightly-used children's books suitable for preschool through junior high students will be collected during the eighth annual book drive Feb. 14-March 16.

New or slightly-used children's books suitable for preschool through junior high students will be collected during the eighth annual book drive Feb. 14-March 16.

Prom is a pain.

Prom is a pain.

Before we wave goodbye to 2011 and welcome in another year, here’s a look back at some of the noteworthy stories that happened in and around the Ahwatukee Foothills community.