This weekend, you might see a lot of pink in the East Valley.

The 20th Komen Phoenix Race for the Cure was held this past weekend – with at least $1.6 million raised for breast cancer research, treatment, education and screening.

Playing her part in National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Ahwatukee Foothills studio salon owner April Harper is donating 10 percent of her revenue to a fundraiser benefitting Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

The Ben Avery Clay Busters will host its second annual sporting clays tournament and fun shoot Oct. 6 as a benefit on behalf of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Gilbert’s BounceU, a popular kids party destination featuring massive inflatable structures, arcade games, party rooms and more, is celebrating its ninth birthday in style this week, and giving back to a worthy cause in the process.

Breast cancer survivors and co-survivors from throughout the Valley are invited to attend the second Komen Phoenix Education and Empowerment Community Conference.

Valley rock maven Stephanie Muscat pounds away on her drums in an Ahwatukee Foothills nightspot then cuts into the soaring vocals of “Sweet Child o’ Mine” as the dance floor fills.

As I watch this Republican presidential primary season proceed in a manner roughly consistent with the course of the Costa Concordia, it has led me to a suspicion I feel honor-bound to share: I think the Republicans are throwing this thing.

When people contribute money to a TV preacher to build an orphanage they expect the funds will be used to build an orphanage, not a theme park. When I contributed funds to the Susan G. Komen Foundation I expected my money would be used to fight breast cancer, not to help pay the overhead of Planned Parenthood. Contributing to Planned Parenthood's overhead is against my religious principles. That the Komen Foundation does not understand this is indeed regrettable. Komen should concentrate on breast cancer research and Planned Parenthood should concentrate on abortions. The two should never be commingled. And this is not "political." It is common sense.

Chandler's Humphrey Elementary School has been selected as one of 16 "NFL Play 60" schools. Part of the school's fitness program includes starting a "fitness trail Fridays" event with families. The Humphrey community will also participate in a three-day, two-miles-a-day walk to support a teacher who is participating in a Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk.

What started as a group of friends with a unique idea to raise money for charity has turned into a world-wide effort to help the less fortunate, and it's slowly spreading across the Valley.

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.

Nominees for the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber in Commerce Women in Business Palo Verde Award come from varied backgrounds and all levels of business experience. The annual award recognizes a female chamber member's personal achievements in business.

Picking the Duncans out of a crowd of barbecue aficionados is easy; they’re the ones in pink. Jennifer’s outdoor kitchen is decked out in the girly hue, and Tom wears it.

Breast cancer survivor Jean Kennedy knew the road after diagnosis was going to be a rough one, filled with ups and downs.

Breast cancer survivor Jean Kennedy knew the road after diagnosis was going to be a rough one, filled with ups and downs.

DeDe Furseth knew it was a tough time for the family, but didn't truly grasp it fully until she read her son's English paper.

Breast cancer awareness is in full swing this month and many local businesses and employees are donning their pink and taking notice.

Breast cancer awareness is in full swing this month and many local businesses and employees are donning their pink and taking notice.

The 19th annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure drew many supporters this past weekend and helped the organization almost reach its $2 million donation goal.

Belle Lacet Lingerie: 7131 W. Ray Road, (480) 940-5455

Belle Lacet Lingerie: 7131 W. Ray Road, (480) 940-5455

The seventh annual Phoenix Fashion Week is under way, providing a platform for both local and established designers to show off their new creations.