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Neighbors
Sept. 19 - Oct. 2, 2015
www.SanTanSun.com
Neighbors Herriman and the Chandler Symphony Orchestra: A perfect pairing page 58
Pastor dons hard hat, builds church for his congregation page 64
Where to Eat page 54
Wright discussion offers ‘new vision’ for Chandler of certain individuals in any town or city Frank Lloyd Wright is a recognizable can shape that area’s future development name in the Valley; his winter home, for years to come. Chandler is no Taliesin West, is a major tourist attraction exception. It’s important to understand and now houses a school for architecture why the city of Chandler grew and and a nonprofit foundation. developed as it did, and who helped in He built several well-known Phoenix determining that.” area landmarks—ASU Gammage While the event takes place at the Memorial Auditorium and First Christian Ed Robson Branch Library it is hosted Church among them. What many don’t realize, though, is that he had a particular vision for Chandler that was inspired by the desert landscape. To give locals an inside look into his dream, the Chandler History Museum is hosting “Frank Lloyd Wright and a New Vision for Chandler” on Thursday, Sept. 24,at the Ed Robson Frank Lloyd Wright, wife Olgivanna, and their daughters, Svetlana and Branch Library to Iovanna, at the Ocatilla Desert Camp in 1929. Photo courtesy of The discuss his unique plan for Chandler. It Chandler Museum. presents a one-of-akind look into local history. by the Chandler History Museum and Patty Dennehy, a library the discussion will be led by Museum paraprofessional at the Ed Robson Branch Administrator Jody Crago. Library, said the event appeals to history Many of Wright’s plans for Chandler enthusiasts. never came to fruition, so attendees “Discussing a major personality such as will have a chance to see “what could Frank Lloyd Wright will also bring in those have been” and get an insider look who are familiar with his work and want into correspondence between Dr. A.J. to learn something they perhaps had not Chandler and Wright. heard before,” she added. “This talk will give local residents “Being a history enthusiast, I always insights into some little-know facts find it fascinating to track events that led to where we are today. The involvement see FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT page 43
BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON
Black-tie event to raise funds for stroke therapy programs BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
Dr. Brian Beck admits he’s never seen the ABC TV show “Dancing with the Stars.” If he had, he might have been a little apprehensive about participating in the first “Dancing for Stroke” fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa. “It would have probably been a lot scarier than what I have in mind,” Beck said with a laugh. “It’s the first time I’ve done any dancing whatsoever. My wife is excited to watch me.”
Beck is one of 10 doctors, nurses and hospital staff who are training with Arizona Ballroom Champions instructors for the fundraiser. The participants have only three months to learn their dance routines. Beck will be dancing the tango and cha-cha as part of the event, which benefits Dignity Health East Valley stroke programs. “We’re doing it for stroke camp for Dignity Health,” Beck explained. “They have one of those per year right now. It’s see BLACK-TIE page 41
Wild Vine Uncorked features relaxed ambiance and fine wines of Napa Valley. Submitted photo
Wild Vine uncorks stellar food, perfect wine pairings BY MANDY LOADER
Admittedly, I am one of those people who views eating out at a great restaurant as an ideal way to spend an evening. At 27 years old and content with nearly everything I eat, I imagine I often look for a different type of restaurant than someone with, say, a family or individuals who are much more selective in their approach to food. That being said, my most recent dining experience has led me to believe there may be a place that satisfies each of these demographics and more. The Wild Vine Uncorked features a relaxed ambiance, a sophisticated wine list with more than 60 varietals and a delicious menu that will please even the choosiest palate. Naturally, the family-owned company welcomes families, and even provides children’s menus for the kids. For sports fans yearning to watch the big game, there are multiple televisions throughout the bar and dining area. And for those simply looking to relax and enjoy the company of friends, the building is fitted
with comfortable couches and tables. Even more, there are two patio areas to enjoy the upcoming fall weather. The restaurant’s concept was developed by owner and General Manager Kim Rubens and her daughter, Kellie Pisano, who manages the restaurant. The two had always hoped to be in business together, so when Kim moved to the area to be near her daughter and grandchildren, the motherdaughter pair decided to go for it. Rubens, who co-owns the restaurant with her husband, Rob, lived in California for several years and became well informed about the finest wines from Napa Valley. Their wine expertise played a huge role in developing the selection of distinguished wines from all over the world, including many from the couple’s Napa roots. The family chose to build their business in South Chandler. Pisano said they feel the location presents a great demographic of people, and has a lot of see WILD VINE page 43
PATRIOTIC PROGRAM
The Tarwater campus is adorned with American Flags for Patriot Day. See page 53 for more photos. STSN photo by Tim Sealy