CHAMBERLAIN ORTHODONTICS - PARTNERS IN EDUCATION 2015
From Dr. Chamberlain’s Desktop
Think we all agree that our children are our most valuable resource. They bring us joy and we all hope that they will have more opportunity than we had, no matter our circumstance. However, with education cuts and more administrative costs to run education programs it seems that in many ways, our children have less of an opportunity in school.
Many schools have less arts education and other programs than they had a
decade or two ago. We at Chamberlain Orthodontics are hoping to provide a small but significant solution to this problem, at least in our area and in our circle of influence.
I would like to introduce a new way we have thought to give back to the schools in our community.
We call it the “Partners in Education” program. In short, our office will give $100 for each child that begins full orthodontic treatment in 2015 to the school that
child attends. This allows us to give directly back to our community and the schools that so positively influence our children.
I am personally so excited to begin this program and see the potential for good unfold in our schools and community.
If you have any questions or would like us to reach out to a school to tell them about our Partners in Education program, please don’t hesitate to call us at 480-448-2477.
Chamberlain Orthodontics Receives 2014 Best of Chandler Awards!
Dr. Thomas Chamberlain
Nish Shah, D.M.D., M.D.
Wisdom teeth removal
Word of Mouth
Wisdom teeth are almost certain to cause problems if left in place. This is particularly true of impacted wisdom teeth, such problems may occur suddenly and often at the most inconvenient time. While the kids are out for spring break, there couldn’t be a better time to take care of this preventative procedure.
The average mouth does not have room for the third molars, also known as “wisdom teeth” to come in properly. These poorly positioned impacted teeth can cause many problems such as swelling, stiffness, pain and illness. The pressure from the wisdom teeth may move other teeth and disrupt the orthodontic or natural alignment of teeth. The most serious problem occurs when tumors or cysts form around the impacted wisdom tooth, resulting in the destruction of the jawbone and healthy teeth. It is now recommended the impacted wisdom teeth be removed early to prevent these problems.
Most commonly we remove wisdom teeth between the ages of 14 and 22 years whether they are causing problems or not. The procedure is technically easier and patients recover much quicker when they are younger. What is a relatively minor procedure at 20 can become quite difficult in patients as they get older. Also the risk of complications increases with age and the healing process is slower. We utilize the latest technologies and techniques to make your procedure go smoother and your healing process faster.
For a consultation, please call Dr. Shah at 480-814-9500.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Board Certified, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
Nearby News Monthly Contest
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The Desert Sun News is published monthly and distributed to 10,000 residences and businesses within Chandler, 8,500 mailed directly to homes and 1,500 distributed on newsstands, and in several hundred high-traffic locations throughout the community.
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Cover Photo: Tim Sealy
community spotlight
Business Excellence Award Finalists to Make Special Appearance
The Tempe Chamber of Commerce has announced the finalists for the 2015 Business Excellence Awards. These awards promote the advancement of responsible business leadership in the community and publicly recognize local businesses demonstrating a passion for excellence.
Members of the community are invited to meet leaders from these organizations at Business Before Hours at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17, at Yvonne’s Café, 1725 W. University, Suite 108.
For the first time, the awards will be presented in two categories for both Small and Large Business of the Year. The awards honor companies for success in business growth, employee development, community involvement and customer service. The six finalists admirably embody those characteristics and are being recognized for that distinction.
The finalists for the Business Excellence Award in the Small Business of the Year Category are:
Good Works Auto Repair
Good Works Auto Repair is a fullservice, owner-operated automotive repair and maintenance shop. It was opened in 2004 by husband and wife team of Glen and RaeAnn Hayward and co-owner Nathan Merrill. It recently expanded by adding an additional 4,000 square feet and four more vehicle lifts. Good Works recently secured new equipment and training to work on hybrid vehicles, becoming only one of two nondealer locations in the state that is able to do so. The shop has also implemented a new tablet-based vehicle inspection and tech program that sends photos directly to customers to show repair conditions and progress.
Here on the Corner
Here on the Corner is a locally owned and operated retail boutique in the heart of Arizona State University.
Under the ownership of Tempe resident Julie Kent since 2011, the shop carries clothing and accessories made in Arizona, as well as products that are socially and environmentally responsible. Many local designers have successfully launched their lines in the shop, which continues to feature the works of established and emerging artists. The shop features the Resolana Project mural on the side of the building, which displays a mural of bicycle frames created by local nonprofits.
Arizona Public Service
APS is Arizona’s largest and longestserving electric company, delivering power to 1.2 million customers in 11 of Arizona’s 15 counties and employing more than 6,400 people. As an investor-owned utility, its mission is to deliver safe, reliable and affordable power and to create a sustainable energy future for Arizona. It has been a leader in the development of solar generation for more than 50 years, building large-scale facilities and enabling customers to install solar panels while investing in smart-grid technologies. Its performance over the last five years continues to outpace the industry and it has increased total shareholder value by $3.7 billion during that time.
JE Dunn Construction
JE Dunn Construction began in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1924. By 2012, it was ranked the 12th largest general building company in the United States with annual revenues of $2.5 billion and 20 office locations coast-to-coast. Its presence in Arizona took hold in 2005 when it opened its Southwest office in Phoenix after nearly a decade of construction in the Valley. Most recently in 2013, JE Dunn Southwest made its permanent home in Tempe in a newly renovated office building. Local projects include ...continued on page 11
GROUP & PRIVATE TRAINING • POST-REHABILITATION • SWIM, BIKE & RUN
SOUTH SIDE OF QUEEN CREEK ROAD BETWEEN PRICE AND DOBSON
Gala Raises Funds for Kids With Cancer to Attend Camp
By Lynette Carrington
The summer camp experience creates some of the happiest memories for kids. For children with cancer, that kind of normalcy is essential to their well-being, something that the Southwest Kids’ Cancer Foundation realizes.
The organization gives cancer-stricken children the chance to create summer memories at Camp Sunrise and Sidekicks, just northeast of Payson.
To raise much-needed funds for the volunteer-run camp, SKCF will present the Dreams of Summer Gala at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at Phoenix Marriott Tempe at The Buttes. SKCF was founded when funding ran dry for the original camp, founded by the American Cancer Society.
“The camp was originally funded by American Cancer Society and supported for 30 years, but they shifted priorities and completely cut all funding, leaving the camp with few resources,” said Steve Koch, board member and marketing coordinator
eries from now-grown adults. Stacey Orendorff Deiser was diagnosed with a spinal neuroblastoma when she was a baby. She underwent chemotherapy and surgery to remove the cancerous tumor underneath her spine. After surgery, there was still some tumor remaining and she underwent a second surgery. Although she had years of testing and blood work that followed, by the time she was 14 she was declared cancer-free.
“Some of my fondest memories at camp were the feeling of equality and togetherness. The campfire songs, stories and the friendships that feel like they just took a break and then started back up once you got to camp again,” Orendorff Deiser said.
In the summer of 2014, Orendorff Deiser returned to Camp Sunrise to volunteer.
“I was grateful to share this special volunteer experience with my children and we will continue to volunteer when we can, as this camp is very near and dear to my heart,” she said.
for SKCF. “A small group of volunteers made it their priority to keep the camp going, and 2014 was its first successful year. This gala is the key to many more.”
The gala raised $35,000 in 2014, allowing 230 children to go to camp. This year, the foundation is hoping 300 people attend the gala, according to Barb Nicholas, executive director of Camp Sunrise and Sidekicks and one of about 115 volunteers at the camp.
Camp Sunrise has seen its share of success stories, including full recov-
“I was there when the Camp Sunrise children arrived on the big Greyhound buses and it brought back lots of wonderful and joyful memories. When I saw the children that needed help getting off the bus, it made me emotional for a couple of reasons. One reason was because it breaks my heart to see any child in that situation, but then warms my heart knowing that they are getting off of the bus to be with all the wonderful and loving people at camp.”
Tickets are $175 per person, $300 per couple or $1,200 per table of eight. For tickets, visit www.azcampsunrise. org/gala.
Camp Sunrise campers arrive via bus to enjoy a week at summer camp.
The 2014 Dreams of Summer Gala was a blast for all guests that attended.
LYNETTE CARRINGTON
neighborhood hearsay
The student section at Sun Devil Stadium, already considered one of the most raucous in the Pac-12 Conference, is about to get louder after Arizona State University began stadium improvements. A new student section is being built in the south end zone after construction crews leveled the old bleachers—part of Phase 1 of the stadium renovation project, estimated at $65.7 million, just in time for the start of the 2015 football season. ASU students will now be at field level, virtually on top of the gridiron. Are we going to see Sparky’s Leap, ASU’s version of the Lambeau Leap?
You’ve heard of the “dine and dash” maneuver at restaurants? Tempe Town Lake is about to be introduced to the “Splash & Dash” on April 9. Participants have the opportunity to splash (or elegantly swim) 750 meters or 1500 meters across the murky waters at Tempe Town Lake. Earplugs and noseplugs optional, but highly recommended. And the kicker… all the fun starts at 6 p.m. Time to channel your inner Michael Phelps.
Visit www.4peaksracing.com for more information.
The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim announced their 2015 spring training schedule, with opening day set for Thursday, March 5, at Tempe Diablo Stadium. A total of 15 home games are scheduled, with ticket prices as low as $15 for lawn seats. The Angels finished seventh in the Cactus League in attendance in 2014, with a total of 108,965 (or an average of 7,264 over 15 games). The champs of the Cactus League: the Chicago Cubs with a whopping 213,815 in total attendance, or 14,254 average per game.
Even if it has a reputation as a college town, Tempe is still highly regarded nationally for its progressiveness and strong economy—with its party school reputation in the rearview mirror. Tempe Mayor Mark Mitchell was recently appointed as chairman of the National League of Cities (NLC) Advisory Council. The one-year appointment was made by NLC President and Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker in January.
The NLC serves as a resource for more than 19,000 member cities, villages and towns across the country by helping city leaders “build better communities.”
Tempe is about to get greener...lawns that is. Every spring, residents wage a war with their yards, trying to beat back weeds and keep the grass in the front yard from becoming a jungle. After a rainy winter, weeds usually win this battle, but the City of Tempe started a new program—Tempe Landscaping Referral—that should swing the battle in a homeowner’s favor. The City negotiated flat rates with three landscaping companies so that residents can directly contract with these companies to keep their yards looking better and in compliance with City codes. Rates vary depending on the size of a yard and whether it is grass or desert landscaping, but prices start as low as $35 a month. For info, visit www.1.usa.gov/1C9RM8k.
Tempe...it’s been nice knowing you! Beer aficionados expecting to enjoy another Great Arizona
Beer Festival at Tempe Town Lake will have to alter their plans. The hugely popular festival, organized by Sun Sounds Foundation, has changed venues and is now being staged at Sloan Park (formerly Cubs Park), located at 2330 W. Rio Salado Pkwy. in Mesa. Scheduled for Saturday, April 18, this craft beertasting extravaganza showcases more than 200 brews from 50-plus breweries from across the state and globe, each providing samples of their finest brewing concoctions. For more information, visit www.azbeer.com.
What’s the buzz in your neighborhood? New babies or grandbabies? Announcements? Engagements? Let us know! Email hearsay@nearbynews.com.
Tempe Residents Called Upon to Shape Future of Arts Community
By Gabrielle Abbott
Tempe residents advocated for the growth of the arts community and shared suggestions on creating the Tempe Arts Plan during a town hall on Tuesday, Feb. 3, at the Tempe Center for the Arts.
“It is time to have that conversation again to discuss how we can inspire the art, to continue to make Tempe a unique and exciting place to live, to do business in our community, to engage with families and young people, as well as retirees, and together as a community we can determine how to support local and emerging artists,” Mayor Mark Mitchell said.
David Plettner-Saunders and Jerry Allen, members of the Cultural Planning Group, explained the three-part planning process for the Tempe Arts Plan.
The Tempe Arts Plan is the creation of goals for the future of the arts in the city. It is “whatever we decide it is going to be,” said Plettner-Saunders. Preparation is the first phase of the plan. Community engagement is the
second part, which will be finalized during the third part in the summer.
“We need to have an arts community,” suggested Nancy Baker, a member of the Tempe Arts Plan Steering Committee. “It’s not just being able to preserve, but taking care of what we have.”
The event took place alongside a moonlit Tempe Town Lake in a room filled with tables labeled by discussion topic. These labels were specific to certain topics, such as “programming for/with millennials” and “other.”
Baker was one of many steering committee members who sat at a table and jotted down ideas formed from discussions. Attendees were able to change tables three times to share their different ideas. At the end of the night, steering committee members announced ideas to the entire crowd.
Some of the ideas were better marketing for the arts, more space for galleries, and events that draw in and engage supporters of the arts community.
“The best ideas come from the community,” said Plettner-Saunders.
Paul Miles sings and plays the Delta Blues for passers-by at the Tempe Festival of the Arts.
Attendee Dan Mores encouraged the implementation of more glass blowing and ceramics programs into the Tempe Center for the Arts.
The Tempe Arts Plan isn’t the only aspect that requires the support of the community. Funding is crucial in the plan’s execution.
Tempe has an art tax of one-tenth of 1 percent implemented in 2000 that
will expire in 2020. Mel Kessler, cofounder of the Friends of Tempe Center for the Arts, said he hopes that this event will create a “roadmap for going out and getting approval” of the tax. In the past support has been “extremely positive,” he added.
The event’s large turnout was “living proof that the arts matter in Tempe,” said Plettner-Saunders.
Economic Development Director
Seeks to Continue City’s Momentum
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
Micah Miranda has only been on the job as Chandler’s economic development director since Dec. 29, but the expectations are high.
Filling the role left vacant by Christine Mackay’s departure to the City of Phoenix, Miranda has seen the future of downtown Chandler start to take shape with the unveiling of plans for Alamo Drafthouse Cinema and the debut of a New Year’s Eve event.
“I need to continue the momentum,” Miranda admitted. “Chandler has had a tremendous amount of success over the past 10 years, and we want to keep that moving forward as quickly and steadily as possible. I want to continue marketing Chandler, continue the momentum around the Price Corridor, and draw additional development out by the airport. Those are our major priorities, as well as downtown development.”
The former City of Maricopa economic development director, Miranda
said that Mackay’s departure left a true opportunity. Mayor Jay Tibshraeny agrees.
“We’re optimistic that he’s going to seize on the opportunity of coming to Chandler,” Tibshraeny said. “I think he’s got some good experience in economic development. He’s coming to a city that has a very successful track record, so I look forward to working with him as he embarks on this new endeavor in his career.”
Longtime East Valley resident
Miranda calls himself an “East Valley guy,” having grown up in Mesa where he graduated from Mesa High School.
After earning a Bachelor of Science degree in regional development from the University of Arizona, Miranda worked in various economic development roles within the City of Mesa from 2002 to 2005.
From there he moved on to the Arizona Department of Commerce, for
East Valley Clinic Takes on Failed Back Pain Surgeries
(Chandler, AZ) Current data shows that around 35% of laminectomy surgical procedures for back and leg pain will not provide relief after five years. This is often referred to as FBSS or Failed Back Surgery Syndrome.
Surgeons are often satisfied with neurological improvement following back surgery and not necessarily back pain relief.
Additional surgeries performed to remedy back pain have an even higher rate of failure.
Novocur Pain Management Clinic now offers an alternative treatment that can often successfully provide long-lasting back and leg pain relief to patients with FBSS.
Neuromodulation uses tiny electrodes implanted over the spinal cord that are powered by a “pacemakerlike generator.” The technology works by replacing pain signals to the brain with a pleasant tingling sensation. The technology represents a giant leap forward in successfully solving difficult back pain for many sufferers who have failed to find relief after surgery.
Novocur’s president and CEO Dr. Alex Bigham says, “a wonderful aspect of this technology is that we can test it on the patient’s specific pain before making a long term commitment to the treatment.” The test procedure takes about an hour and does not require general anesthesia or conscious sedation.
More information about FBSS and neuromodulation is available at the novocur.com website or by calling the Novocur clinic at (480) 855-6686.
which he served as bioscience business attraction manager from 2005 to 2008. He earned experience as economic development specialist for the City of Tempe from 2008 to 2012. He comes to Chandler from the City of Maricopa, where he worked as economic development director since 2012.
Chandler also provides the diversity he seeks in an ideal position.
“I like redevelopment and I like new development,” explains Miranda, who
lives in Gilbert with his wife and three children. “Being able to do those two things simultaneously was very attractive to me. Also, Chandler’s leadership is probably one of the most respected nationally. How they approach managing the City and the policies they put forward are amazing.”
He said his collective experiences are varied, so he’s the perfect fit for Chandler.
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Neuromodulation technology helps failed back surgery patients at Novocur clinic.
Micah Miranda, shown here with his family, has been hired as the City of Chandler’s economic development director.
Ostrich Festival, Fun Run, Parade Approaching
The Chandler Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for Ostrich Festival weekend beginning with the Mayor’s Fun Run and Health Fair and the Ostrich Festival Parade on Saturday, March 7. The community is encouraged to participate with runners/ walkers, health fair booths or parade entries.
The 13th annual Mayor’s Fun Run begins at 8 a.m. Saturday, March 7, followed by the Ostrich Festival Parade. Runners and walkers are welcome for the 5K event, and each participant 11 years of age and older receives a free shirt and a chance at an award for the top finishers. The registration cost is $20 until Feb. 20, $25 until 6 p.m. March 6, and $30 for day-of registers. Parking will be available in the structure on Boston Street east of Arizona Avenue. The Mayor’s Fun Run is sponsored by Garmin International, Dignity Health, Dana Tire and Ocotillo Village Health Club and Spa. A Health Fair will run from 6 a.m.
to 12 p.m. March 7 at Dr. AJ Chandler Park in downtown Chandler. For vendor forms, visit bit.ly/1CSuNCu. The Ostrich Festival mascot, Tutu, will be meeting and greeting during the events. Registration for the Parade and health fair ends Feb. 18.
Following the run and award presentation ceremony, participants can relax alongside friends and family and watch the 27th annual Ostrich Festival Parade. Starting at Ray Road and Arizona Avenue at 10 a.m., the procession of floats, dignitaries, pageant winners, classic cars, bands, horses, dance teams and more than 100 other entries will make their way south to Chicago Street. The Ostrich Festival Parade is sponsored by Thorobred Chevrolet. For applications for the Mayor’s Fun Run or the Ostrich Festival Parade, or for more information visit www.ostrichfestival.com
The Chandler Ostrich Festival began in 1989, based on Chandler’s colorful history of ostrich ranching. The event
has grown to become one of the premier festivals in the southwest. The Ostrich Festival is a community family event featuring live ostrich races and ostrich-themed activities, national and regional entertainment, carnival midway, spectacular food, upscale arts and crafts, a Saturday morning parade and more.
The Chandler Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting regional economic growth, advancing
business-friendly public policies and servicing our members through outstanding programs, benefits and services. The chamber represents more than 1,300 businesses with more than 100,000 employees. The Chandler chamber is the third largest chamber in Arizona. For more information visit www.chandlerchamber.com, call the Chandler Chamber of Commerce at (480) 963-4571 or email info@chandlerchamber.com.
Tyler Henry helps feed the goats and the Ostrich Festival petting zoo
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medical centers and hospitals, a correctional facility, data centers, a solar plant, border station, banking facilities and more.
TruWest Credit Union
TruWest Credit Union was founded in 1952 to serve just seven Motorola employees. In 1983, it opened its very first community branch in Arizona, and has since grown to more than 220 employees, 67,000 members and 13 branches in Arizona and Texas. It is a member-owned cooperative, providing financial solutions so that its members can achieve their goals. It has evolved to offer innovative, nontraditional methods of banking including mobile banking, remote-
Economic Development Director
...continued from page 9
“Being able to merge all those different experiences into one community is an asset,” he said. “I’ve done a little bit of everything in economic development and now I’m able to bring it all to one location.”
Future of Chandler
Miranda said he believes that development on the southwest corner of Arizona Avenue and Chandler Boulevard—referred to as sites one, two and three—that includes Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, The Vig, Modern Margarita and La Bocca is “really going to transform downtown.”
“Having Alamo Cinema downtown is really going to bring nightlife to downtown,” he said.
Additional space will be designated for more restaurants, retail and offices in an initial phase, with the possible addition of residential units, a fitness center and parking garage.
“We want to bring external wealth into our community that supports police, fire, parks—all the quality of life amenities that our residents and businesses enjoy and that make Chandler such a desirable location to live and work.”
He said entrepreneurs are going to lead the future of downtown. The ASU Chandler Innovation Center and Gangplank have the synergy to allow
ly signed loan documents and new electronic delivery channels to serve members in a manner that is most convenient for them.
Last year’s recipients of the award were Landings Credit Union and the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine.
The recipients of the 2015 Business Excellence Awards will be announced and honored at the inaugural Beacon Awards on Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Embassy Suites Tempe, 4400 S. Rural Rd. Call (480) 967-7891 or visit www. tempechamber.org for details or tickets.
Additional awards to be presented at the event are the Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year the Spirit of Tempe, and Tempe Leadership’s Outstanding Community Leader.
the entrepreneurial climate to thrive in Chandler.
“I think the world of entrepreneurs,” he said. “From a City perspective, anything we can do to help and encourage new business formation is something that really gets me energized.
“A lot of small startup businesses want that walkability. As downtown grows, it’ll become a more attractive destinations for those businesses.”
In West Chandler, the freeway frontage between the Loop 202 and Interstate 10 allows maximum visibility for businesses.
“I think that area will attract a lot of jobs,” Miranda said. “That’s going to be a major employment sector of the city. Being right on two major arterials is only going to make that area more viable. We’ll continue to see a lot of large corporate users move into the area, as well as retail opportunity for the residents.”
Miranda said that Tibshraeny, the council and staff have done a “tremendous job” setting the table for Chandler’s future.
“The vision they’ve had in maintaining the Price Corridor is notable,” he said. “During the downturn, there were a lot of people wanting to get their hands on that land, but council was steadfast in saying, ‘We’re going to protect this for employment purposes.’ Council understands the need for large parcels and the importance of jobs. That makes my job a lot easier.”
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Rockin’ R Ranch Delivers Delicious Western Experience
Story and photos by Lynette Carrington
It had been a few years since we visited Rockin’ R Ranch and, when we returned, I was reminded how great the working horse ranch is for kids and families. The ranch is owned and operated by the Robson family, who also serve up vittles at dinnertime followed by a true Western stage show.
Entering the Rockin’ R Ranch transported us back to a kinder, simpler time where the tumbleweeds blew across the desert and cowboys rode the range. As we walked across the wooden bridge and through
a mountainous cave with a waterfall, I could almost hear the coyotes howling and the cook banging the triangle signaling dinner was ready.
We soon spilled out onto Main Street. My three kids immediately ran for the gold panning trough. My husband and I headed straight for Sweet Mary’s Sweet Shop for the best homemade fudge and to check out the Rockin’ R Ranch merchandise, apparel and Western gifts.
Before we went into the large dirt floor showroom for dinner, we checked out the blacksmith’s shop to greet the goats, pig and a small pony, the latter of
which is available for rides. We also chatted with the Rockin’ R Ranch owners, “Sweet Mary” and “Big Jim” Robson. The Robsons have been entertaining visitors since Rockin’ R Ranch opened to the public in 1986.
Big Jim’s family was one of Mesa’s original families. Jim likes to tell the story of his great-great grandfather, Deputy Frank Robson, who was killed by the notorious outlaw Black Jack Ketchum in 1896.
Once inside the showroom, we were seated at long picnic tables. Big Jim greeted the crowd and gave the rather entertaining instructions about getting dinner in the Rockin’ R Ranch chow line. Dinner is not a formal affair but a fun, ranchstyle experience where we neatly filed into the serving area to get delicious cowboy-inspired food. Dinner includ-
ed guests’ choice of barbecue beef or chicken (tickets can be purchased that include both entrees), melt-in-yourmouth Dutch oven biscuits, chunky applesauce, cowboy beans, cornbread, a baked potato and spice cake.
The Rockin’ R Wranglers group put
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Guests are welcome to pan for gold before dinner and the show on Rockin’ R Ranch’s Main Street.
During the Western show, Marisa Robson joins her parents onstage to perform “Thank God for Kids” in sign language.
Founded in 1949, Grand Canyon University is a private Christian university with over 160 online and campus-based degree programs and concentrations for both traditional students and working professionals. Community college graduates can easily transfer credits toward a bachelor’s degree at Grand Canyon University.
GCU’s campus features:
• Two heated resort-style swimming pools
• Student fitness center
• Six-lane bowling alley
• 7,000-seat GCU Arena
• Popular eateries like Chick-fil-A, Subway and Peets
around the neighborhood
Warm weather and good food greeted patrons at the Taste in Tempe Festival on Sunday, Feb. 8. The Tempe Center for the Arts, located on the banks of Tempe Town Lake, hosted top local chefs and restaurants as they conducted cooking demonstrations and dished out tasty morsels, desserts and beverages. Florists, jewelers, chocolatiers and pastry chefs also participated in the second annual outdoor culinary festival. Photos by Tim Sealy 1. Lily Horen plays on the hill. 2. Carter Horen tosses a beanbag for a game of cornhole. 3. Angie and Ariana Morrissey enjoy the warm February sun. 4. Parker Liu hung out with dad, David. 5. Daniel Johnson shares a moment and a photoop with a couple of pandas. 6. Picnicking in the sun, Sherrie Moyer and John Dempsey grabbed a great spot on the hill. 7. Recent San Diego transplants Roger and Rosanna Lara make their own shade. 8. Noah Sacksteder is a carnival ride for Alice and Dale Phau. 9. Jon Boeke and Christine Stoffel had the right idea. 10. Renny Mitchell and Derek Clark of Venezia’s Pizzeria had some awesome samples for the hungry crowd. 11. DJ Dean Michaels spins a sonic good time at the 94.5 KOOL-FM booth. 10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11
By Melissa Hurst
Inexpensive Family Fun
Spring break is forthcoming for most Valley schools. So how do you alleviate your children’s boredom? Here are some ideas that won’t break the bank.
Family Game Night. Set out card tables and all of your board games— old and new—for a family fun game night. Pair into teams and play a variety of games. Have inexpensive snacks and drinks and music, you can even invite players to come in costume for fun. Visit the local dollar store for inexpensive door prizes you can raffle off each hour.
Go Camping. Check out local parks that offer resident discounts. For less than $25 a night, you can enjoy a roomy campsite with water and electrical hook-up, plus many campgrounds will have fun camp activities. If your kids are younger or you want to save even more, set up a campground in your backyard
with a tent and fire pit. The best part is that you’ll have access to clean restrooms!
Flying? You can still save by watching extra fees with overweight bags, volunteering to get “bumped” or upgrading with frequent flyer miles. Remember to shop around before you book by using an online price comparison like Priceline or Expedia.
Visit the Library. Libraries aren’t just for books, you can rent movies, books on tape, magazines or music—and it’s all free! Check local library events for book reading or other special events to entertain kids while they are off.
Enjoy a Staycation. Instead of traveling out of state, enjoy what Arizona has to offer for less. Check daily deal sites like Groupon.com or Livingsocial.com to save on rooms, restaurants, spa services or other special events. They even offer concert tickets on select bands.
No matter what you plan this Spring Break, don’t let your budget get off course. Plan some frugal fun activities and enjoy the savings!
Melissa Hurst, a Valley-based deal-hunting savings pro, is also a mom of three. She understands the importance of budgeting and shares her savings tips in her column. Visit www.SavingCentsWithSense.net, where she shares her passion for bargain-hunting and strategies for stretching a budget.
Cutie Patooties!
Is your kid a “cutie patootie”? Of course he is, so submit your baby, toddler or kid photos to the The Nearby News’ East Valley Moms section for a chance to win a restaurant gift certificate. Send high-resolution digital photos to editor@nearbynews. com. Be sure to include your name, your child’s name and age and your phone number. (Don’t worry, phone numbers will not be published.) It wasn’t easy but the winner is...
11-month-old Nathan Dueñas. His mom, Jenny, calls him her “champion” for being brave through cleft lip surgery. For that photo, the family will have dinner on us!
she’s crafty
By Erica Odello
DIY Composter
Last year, for the first time in my life, I had a successful garden. I’d like to capitalize on that success and expand my garden this year, and I’d like to do it as inexpensively as possible. Cue the opportunity to start composting, something I’ve been wanting to try for a while.
My first step was to create the compost bin. I’ve seen composters in stores for as low as $45 and online as high as $150. Because the whole point of this project is to save money, I wasn’t
Rockin’ R Ranch
...continued from page 12 on a musical show that included national two-time fiddling champion “Danny Boy” Smith, Shane Bankhead slapping the bass, Big Jim on guitar and as lead story teller and Sweet Mary who handles duties including singing and playing flute, tambourine and even a saw. You haven’t experienced “Home on the Range” until you’ve seen Sweet Mary pulling a bow across a saw.
about to drop that much coin on something I can get for free or nearly free with just a little bit of Googling. Most Valley cities have backyard composting programs where they convert old and broken city trash cans into compost bins, which they either sell for about $5 or give to residents for free. Many will even deliver the compost bin for no added cost! Air is an essential tool to making compost and all city-created composters have holes drilled in the
The show included great stories and cute jokes, but more importantly, everyone on stage was incredibly talented and they put on an entertaining hour-long show. One fantastic highlight was when Sweet Mary and Big Jim’s adult daughter, Marisa Robson, joined them onstage to perform “Thank God for Kids” in sign language. It was a touching performance.
During the Rockin’ R Wranglers’ set, guests enjoyed songs like the theme from “The Lone Ranger,” “Back in the Saddle,” “The Arizona Song,” “Tumbling Tumbleweeds” and even “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot.” After the show, guests met on Main Street where local bad guys were run out of town once and for all during a staged gunfight. The dinner and show were a two-hour event.
There are not too many places in Arizona that put on a traditional West-
sides for this purpose. The hardest part of this project was digging a hole deep enough that the top air-holes were below ground level. I used the excess dirt to fill the hole back in so the converted trash can has a snug fit. I read that putting straw in the bottom of the composter is a great way to start the process, so I went to the Pet Food Depot near my home. They said I could take any hay that was on the ground and not in a bale. I filled up one grocery bag and then spread it across the bottom of my bin.
The best compost is made of plant scraps. Never, ever include pet feces, meat, fish or oil of any kind. If it comes from a plant it’s good, if it comes from an animal, except for egg shells, don’t use it.
because I placed my composter where it spends most daylight hours in the sun, that I need to wet it down every three to four days to keep the process moving.
Once a week I use a shovel to turn the pile and stop it from settling. The more air that gets into the layers, the quicker the process will finish, usually 8-12 weeks depending on the temperature.
In the meantime
ern show with dinner. It’s a bonus that such a wonderful experience is in East Mesa. The property also includes the Ponderosa Gardens Reception Center for weddings and special events. The Rockin’ R Ranch is also home to a lot of activities for Boy Scouts who can do campouts and earn badges.
Rockin’ R Ranch tickets are $20 for children 12 and younger; $30 for adults and VIP seating and combo meal tickets running $26 for children and $36 for adults. Tickets are $2 higher if purchased at the door. To purchase tickets visit www.rockinr.net or call (480) 832-1539 for additional information.
Rockin’ R Ranch is located at 6136 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa.
Rockin’ R Ranch
6136 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa (480) 832-1539 www.rockinr.net
Fresh compost material provides nitrogen and the dry material you will add provides carbon which, when combined, breaks the mixture down into the nutrient-rich soil that plants love so much. Start by placing a 6-inch layer of fresh material across the bottom of the composter, followed by a 2-inch layer of dry material. In between each layer, I sprinkled about 1 cup of compost starter, but you can also use mulch. Repeat the process until you run out of material, then water down the entire thing to the consistency of a justwrung-out sponge.
I have found that,
I am already working on my next batch by saving all of my vegetable and fruit scraps in an airtight container under my sink. I was very skeptical of the smell this practice would create, but they weren’t lying when they said that if you stick to plant-based refuse, it won’t stink.
That lovely garbage odor that makes everyone gag is from animal-derived trash, not plant-based.
What to use for fresh materials
Grass, hedge and tree trimmings
Fruit and vegetable leftovers including stems and peels (or what’s fallen from your trees)
Grain scraps (bread, pasta, rice, quinoa etc.)
Crushed eggshells
Coffee grounds (with filter), tea bags, fruit juice
Cactus cuttings
Wilted flowers
What to use for dry materials
Sawdust or wood chips
Straw or hay
Shredded newspaper (black and white preferred, only in small amounts)
Twigs
Fireplace ashes (in smaller amounts)
Other dry, organic materials
Do not use
Weeds that have gone to seed
Diseased plants
Pet waste
Animal-derived food waste
Oil of any sort
Plastic, glass or metal
The Rockin’ R Wranglers put on a traditional Western musical show as soon as dinner is finished.
1
top 10 family events
Feb. 15-March 15, 2015
LEGO KidsFest
KidsFest returns to Glendale with LEGO and DUPLO construction zones, large-scale and miniature LEGO models and displays, LEGO Games, group builds, LEGO Master Builders, and more.
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 27, through Sunday, March 1, various times
WHERE: University of Phoenix Stadium, 1 Cardinals Dr., Glendale COST: $19.50 to $22.50; younger than 2 free INFO: www.legokidsfest.com
2 Marvel Universe LIVE!
This high-caliber arena spectacular will put fans in the middle of one of the most electrifying battles between good and evil.
WHEN: Thursday, March 5, through Sunday, March 8, various times
WHERE: US Airways Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix COST: $24 to $89
INFO: (800) 745-3000 or www.usairwayscenter.com
3 Cirque du Soleil Presents Varekai
Deep within a forest, at the summit of a volcano, exists an extraordinary world—a world called Varekai.
WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 18, through Sunday, Feb. 22, various times
WHERE: US Airways Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix COST: $40 to $100
INFO: (800) 745-3000 or www.usairwayscenter.com
4 Arizona Renaissance Festival & Artisan Marketplace
Visit artisan shops filled with treasures, enjoy crazy village street shenanigans, try people-powered rides, and sample the new Pleasure Feast menu during the faire’s 27th season.
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday through March 29
WHERE: Renaissance Festival Village, 12601 E. U.S. Highway 60, Gold Canyon COST: Adults $22; Kids (5-12) $12; Children (4 and younger) free INFO: www.royalfaires.com/arizona
5 Gridiron Glory: The Best of the Pro Football Hall of Fame
On display are rare artifacts from the Pro Football Hall of Fame, including legendary gear, photos and documents.
WHEN: Daily until Sunday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
WHERE: Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington St., Phoenix COST: $12; $8 members INFO: (602) 716-2000 or www.azscience.org
6 Ostrich Festival
Founded in 1989, the Chandler Ostrich Festival has become one of the premier festivals in the Southwest.
WHEN: Friday, March 13, through Sunday, March 15, various times
WHERE: Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S. McQueen Rd., Chandler
COST: $7 to $10 general admission; separate charge for carnival rides and food. Parking is $3 to $5. INFO: www.ostrichfestival.com
7 Camp Fair AZ
Parents and children can talk with staff members from the various camps, ask questions and learn about summer camp experiences.
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 21, and Sunday, Feb. 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE: Tesseract School, 3939 E. Shea Blvd., Phoenix (Feb. 21); and Chandler Preparatory Academy, 1951 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler (Feb. 22)
COST: Free
INFO: www.campfairaz.com
8 Lost Dutchman Days
This 51st annual event has three days of professional rodeo action, a carnival that features 30-plus rides, and carnival attractions.
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 26, to Sunday, March 1, various times
WHERE: Apache Junction Rodeo Grounds, 1590 E. Lost Dutchman Blvd., Apache Junction.
COST: $2 general admission, parking is free. Rodeo: Children $8 and adults $12 INFO: www.lostdutchmandays.org
9 Parada del Sol Rodeo 2015
A PRCA-sanctioned rodeo, the event allows pat4rons to see the action, support the charities and participate in a great Scottsdale tradition.
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 26, at 7 p.m.; Friday, Feb. 27, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 28, at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 1, at 2 p.m.
WHERE: WestWorld, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale
COST: $10 to $35 INFO: www.paradadelsol.rodeo
10 The French American
School of Arizona Open House
The school is hosting a Mardi Grasthemed open house where families can learn about the private, bilingual French and English school. WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 21, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
WHERE: The French American School of Arizona, 2222 S. Price Rd., Tempe
COST: Free INFO: (480) 334-9655 or www.frencham.org
Tempe Students Perform During Super Bowl Halftime Show
By Jill Hanks, Tempe Union High School District | Photos by Bianca Caryl
Nearly 200 students from the Tempe Union High School District were thrilled to finally share the huge secret they’ve been keeping since December. That’s when the Corona del Sol Marching Band and Desert Vista Dance Company received word they’d been selected to perform in the Super Bowl XLIX Halftime Show with Katy Perry.
Strict NFL rules prohibited students from revealing their participation before the event but now, with seemingly permanent grins, the students shared their experience of a lifetime.
“I was like, ‘Am I dreaming? Does someone need to pinch me right now?’ I never thought I’d be at a Super Bowl, much less taking part in a performance seen by millions of people,” said Corona del Sol sophomore Michael Richards.
Michael and several of the 160 Corona band and percussion students were so proud of their role at Super Bowl XLIX that they wore their black bodysuit costumes to school the next day. The students played a key role in the look of the show, performing choreography with beach balls. Inside the balls were LED controllers that changed the colors remotely.
Three dozen dancers from Desert Vista were also chosen by the Super Bowl XLIX casting committee. They not only helped open the show with Perry’s hit song, “Roar,” but were also part of an elite group of dancers picked to perform in the show’s finale, “Firework.” Several of the dancers helped on the sidelines with set pieces, props and costumes.
The rehearsal schedule for both groups was grueling—about 40 hours over a week and a half, often until 10 p.m.
“I’m especially proud of how professional the students acted and how hard they worked with no complaints while balancing rehearsals with other commitments,” said Corona del Sol band director David Duplessis.
“Their attitude was, ‘Let’s get it done’ and they did it.”
One of the best moments was getting to meet Perry a few days before the show. The students learned Perry spent some of her childhood in Arizona. They were surprised by how down to earth she seemed.
“She wasn’t a diva pop star,” Michael said. “She encouraged us to do our best and she calmed our nerves. She was just a regular adult that I respect very much.”
Desert Vista Dance instructor Bianca Caryl, who performed in the Super Bowl XXX Halftime Show with Diana Ross, also gave her students a pep talk.
“Stay focused,” Caryl offered. “You can get swept away in the energy and atmosphere of all the people in the stadium. Focus on the rehearsal you’ve done and the job you are there to do and be in the moment.”
Her sentiment was echoed by Duplessis to his students, “Be sure to take it all in.”
For everyone involved, the experience was magical.
“Seeing it all come together, the incredible scale of everything, and seeing the students perform on a world stage and then seeing their faces as they came off the field, it was pretty special,” Duplessis said.
Both Corona del Sol and Desert Vista students took part in the number that had them dressed in black carrying beach-ball type orbs at Super Bowl XLIX.
Waldorf Chicken Salad
For the Salad:
2 cups cubed cooked chicken (or turkey)
1 cup red apple, diced
1 cup seedless red grapes, sliced in half
1/2 cup sliced celery (slice from the small end)
1/2 cup raisins, or dried tart red cherries
1/3 cup walnuts, rough chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
4 cups mixed greens or lettuce leaves tossed gently with 2 teaspoons of olive oil
For the Dressing:
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons honey
teaspoons fresh squeezed lemon juice 1/4 teaspoon fresh or ground ginger
In a small bowl, whisk yogurt, honey, lemon juice and ginger. In a large bowl, combine cubed chicken or turkey, diced apple, sliced grapes, celery, raisins or dried cherries, walnuts, salt and pepper. Pour dressing over mixture and gently toss to combine. Refrigerate for one hour. When ready to serve, gently toss salad greens with olive oil. Prepare four plates. Place 1 cup of lettuce greens on each plate. Distribute chilled salad mixture evenly over top of lettuce on all four plates.
events calendar
Feb. 15-March 15, 2015
ASU Guest Artist Series: Scott Wright, Clarinet
The ASU Guest Artist Series presents Scott Wright, professor of music at the University of Kentucky, performing an evening of music for clarinet and piano at Katzin Concert Hall on the ASU Tempe Campus.
Lunar New Year: Year of the Sheep at the Phoenix Zoo
Celebrate the first day of the 2015 Chinese New Year at the Phoenix Zoo. Activities will include a sheep-inspired craft project at Harmony Farm and a goat training demonstration at the Harmony Farm grass lawn. Watch sheep and goats during a scheduled behavioral enrichment session.
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 19, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
WHERE: The Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix
COST: All activities are included with zoo admission of $14 to $36. INFO: (602) 286-3800 or www.phoenixzoo.org
Rajiv Satyal at Tempe Improv Rajiv Satyal is a standup comedian from Cincinnati, Ohio, whose witty, universal, and TV-clean act resonates around the world by covering everything from racial issues to soap bottles to his favorite topic—himself.
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 19, at 8 p.m.
WHERE: Tempe Improv Comedy Theatre, 930 E. University Dr., Tempe COST: $17 general admission INFO: (480) 921-9877 or www.tempeimprov.com
ASU Art Museum Spring 2015 Season Opening Reception
Celebrate the opening of the ASU Art Museum’s Spring 2015 exhibitions including “The Gift: Selections from the Armstrong-Prior Archive,” “Architecture for Place: Glenn Murcutt,” “Museum/Archive: Recent Acquisitions to the ASU Art Museum Collection” and “Tan Ping: Follow My Line and Unfixed: New Painting.”
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 20, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
WHERE: ASU Art Museum, 51 E. 10th St., Tempe COST: Free
INFO: (480) 965-2787 or www.asuartmuseum.asu.edu/exhibitions
Wayne Brady
For more than a decade, Wayne Brady has been entertaining audiences with his comedy, acting, singing and dancing on television, film and stage. He’s most famous for his appearance on “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” for which he won a 2003 Emmy Award.
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 21, 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.
WHERE: Tempe Improv Comedy Theatre, 930 E. University Dr., Tempe
COST: $30 general admission
INFO: (480) 921-9877 or www.tempeimprov.com
Music in the Garden 2015— Phoenix Boys Choir
Enjoy the beautiful scenery, ideal Arizona weather and talented musicians at the Spring Music in the Garden Series at Desert Botanical Garden.
COST: Adults $20, children (3-12) $10 for garden members; and adults $25 and children $12 for nonmembers. INFO: (480) 941-1225 or www.dbg.org/events-exhibitions/ music-in-the-garden
Ceramic Studio Tour at Sandy Blain Studio
Discover new functional and sculptural ceramic work by Sandy Blain, Esmeralda DeLaney, Jane KelseyMapel and Sandra Luehrsen at Sandy Blain Studio. Demonstrations of ceramic techniques are open and free to the public from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 21, and Sunday, Feb. 22, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
WHERE: Sandy Blain Studio, 491 W. Courtney Ln., Tempe COST: Free INFO: (480) 893-2133 or www.sandyblain.com
Meet & Greet: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Kareem Abdul-Jabbar—Sports Illustrated’s “Greatest Basketball Player of All Time” and the NBA’s all-time leading scorer—visits Changing Hands Bookstore to sign the second installment of his bestselling “Streetball Crew” series titled “Stealing the Game.”
WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 22, at 1 p.m. WHERE: Changing Hands Bookstore, 6428 S. McClintock Dr., Tempe COST: Free with purchase of “Stealing
the Game” at $16.99
INFO: (480) 973-0205 or www.changinghands.com
Bob Marley
A Maine native, comedian Bob Marley began performing stand-up in his hometown of Portland. Making his first TV appearance on Comedy Central, Marley regularly does the late-night circuit.
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 26 at 8 p.m.; Friday, Feb. 27, and Saturday, Feb. 28, at 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.; and Sunday, March 1, at 7 p.m.
WHERE: Tempe Improv Comedy Theatre, 930 E. University Dr., Tempe
COST: $20 general admission INFO: (480) 921-9877 or www.tempeimprov.com
Class Clowns Comedy
Comedian Tony Vicich brings his longrunning stand-up comedy show, Class Clowns Comedy, to Tempe Center for the Arts.
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 27, at 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe
COST: $10 to $25 INFO: www.tempe.gov
Music in the Garden 2015— Novo Mundo
Enjoy the beautiful scenery, ideal Arizona weather and great music—salsa, bossa nova, and samba beats from Novo Mundo.
Philip Glass is one of the world’s most influential composers. His works are included in major motion pictures, opera, theater and dance. Glass will perform newly written work and his complete set of piano etudes along with two guest pianists.
WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 28, at 7 p.m.
WHERE: ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe
COST: General admission $43 INFO: www.asugammage.com/shows
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Spring Training
The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim call Tempe home as they play teams such as the Cubs, the Brewers, the Rockies and the Giants. Tempe Diablo Stadium is located at Interstate 10 and Broadway.
WHEN: Thursday, March 5, through Tuesday, March 31, various times WHERE: Tempe Diablo Stadium, 2200 W. Alameda Dr., Tempe
COST: Starts at $15
INFO: www.atmlb.com/1DgjUZR
2015 Arizona Aloha Festival
Take an island vacation without leaving Tempe at the Arizona Aloha Festival. Celebrate Hawaiian, Tahitian, Samoan and other South Pacific cultures through dance and musical performances, food, kid’s crafts and more fun.
WHEN: Saturday, March 7, and Sunday, March 8, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
WHERE: Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe
COST: Free INFO: www.www.azalohafest.org
Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine’s Discovery Days
Free daylong event provides solutions for getting healthy naturally.
WHEN: Saturday, March 14; call for times
WHERE: Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, 2140 E. Broadway Rd., Tempe
COST: Free
INFO: (888) 882-7266, www.scnm. edu/discovery (community) or www.scnm.edu/studentdiscoveryday (prospective students)
Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella See Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical from the creators of “The Sound of Music” and “South Pacific.”
WHEN: Tuesday, March 10, through Friday, March 13, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, March 14, at 2 p.m.; Saturday, March 14, at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, March 15 at 1 p.m.; and Sunday, March 15, at 6:30 p.m.
WHERE: ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe
COST: $35 to $150
INFO: (480) 965-3434 or www.asugammage.com/shows
on the town
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski | Photos by David Karasinski
Thai Season
Thai Season owner Sirichai Mahasirichoke knows how to run a restaurant. Now only does the eatery boast the freshest of ingredients, it boasts chef Arthawut Arthakorn, who has experience in five-star restaurants in Bangkok.
The proof is in the dishes. During a recent visit, my husband and I tried several dishes at Thai Season, which opened in early January. We started our meal with chicken satay—grilled chicken breast marinated with yellow curry powder and coconut milk, served with cucumber and peanut sauces ($8.50/$3.95 during happy hour). The result is one of the best satays we’ve had in the Valley. The peanut sauce was rich, with just a hint of curry. It wasn’t a challenge getting the chicken off the skewers, either. It practically fell off.
soy sauce, broccoli, Chinese broccoli and carrots. The combination of the ingredients in the dish—which translates to “fried with soy sauce”— brought a medley of complimentary flavors.
We tried three generously sized maincourse dishes—sweet and sour chicken ($7.50 for lunch/$9.50 for dinner), pad see ew ($7.50 for lunch/$9.50 for dinner) and three-flavor fish ($9.50 for lunch/$14.50 for dinner).
I’m pretty much a connoisseur of all things sweet and sour, and this dish was incredible. Served with thick homemade sweet and sour sauce and stir fried with tomatoes, cucumbers, carrot, onions, bell peppers and pineapple, the dish was prepared to the perfect spice. However, watch out: The medium spice level is a little hotter than other restaurants around town.
As for my husband, he isn’t a big Thai food fan, but he admittedly loved the pad see ew and the threeflavor fish. The pad see ew, which he ordered with chicken, features wide rice noodles stir fried with egg, sweet
Arthakorn brought us the three-flavor fish as a surprise. He beamed with pride as he placed it on the table. This dish offers multiple breaded slices of white fish, with generous helpings of the sweet sauce as well as carrots, broccoli and other veggies.
The atmosphere of Thai Season, formerly known as Thai Basil, is quaint. Asian music softly filled the restaurant as diners slowly arrived at Thai Season for dinner. The quiet, sparse conversation between patrons was a clear sign of approval of Mahasirichoke and Arthakorn’s talents. Thai Season is well worth the drive.
The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for lunch Monday through Friday. Dinner hours are: 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday; 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday; and 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday.
Thai Season’s chicken satay is among the best in the Valley.
Sweet and sour chicken
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
ITEMS FOR SALE
FOR SALE
Day/Medical Spa Equipment
in Mint Condition:
Pibbs Hydraulic Facial Chair
T209 Sterilizer Cabinets
Amber Spa Paraffin Wax Heaters
Sterilux UV Glass Bead Sterilizer
Anesi Parafango Warmer
Folding Massage Table & More!
Call 818-471-5256 for Details
LANDSCAPING SERVICES
AZ HOME & LANDSCAPE SERVICES
Complete lawn and home maintenance including yard clean ups and hauling, sprinkler repair, dethatching, tree trimming and installation, etc.
English Speaking, Reliable, Dobson Ranch Resident.
Free Estimate Visa/MC Accepted 480-200-9598
MATTRESS SETS
ABSOLUTE BARGAIN!
P-Top Mattress Set
ORGANIZING SERVICES
ORGANIZING WITH FAITH
Want to GET ORGANIZED?
With Faith, you can clear the clutter and create viable systems to be and stay organized. FREE initial consultation!
480-298-3937
PET SERVICES
ANIMAL HOUSE PET SITTING
Experienced loving pet sitters
Non-smoking home
Fenced yard
Plenty of room for play
We care for all animals including dogs, cats, reptiles, birds, small cage animals, etc.
Schedule a meet & greet today!
480-200-9597
CINDY THE CRITTER SITTER
Will take care of your furry babies as you would with in-home visits – daily or overnight – walks, playtime, or quiet companionship
Pet transport also available
Bonded and Insured
Visit me at cindythecrittersitter.com then call 480-580-6981 or email cindythecrittersitter@gmail.com
TRAVEL
ENOS KING-LEWIS II, AGENT Guide, Producer Fun Trips! Prosperity - Wellness www.Enos4Prosperity.com 800-824-1450 (Call 24/7) enos4homes@hotmail.com
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