Santan Sun News - January 5, 2019

January 5–18, 2019 | www.SanTanSun.com

Relentlessly local coverage of Southern Chandler and our neighboring communities

A passing of the mayoral gavel at City Hall Tibshraeny leaving city in good hands as he begins new job

After a long ‘runway,’ Hartke eager to fly as new mayor

BY JASON STONE Staff Writer

BY JASON STONE Staff Writer

Chandler Mayor Jay Tibshraeny is going back to school, but it’s not a plot to a 1980s Rodney Dangerfield movie.

The mayor is learning how to be a judge as he counts down his final few days as Chandler’s mayor.

“I’ll be doing training (this) week for my new gig, so we’ll roll right into it,” Tibshraeny said.

The “new gig” is justice of the peace for the San Marcos Justice Court – a job he describes “like a judge.”

In his new role, Tibshraeny will deal with matters such as orders of protection, small claims court matters, civil suits of $10,000 or less, landlord/tenant issues

Kevin Hartke is just days away from taking over as Chandler’s mayor, but you’ll have to forgive him if he’s a little impatient to get started.

Once the last of his three possible opponents had dropped out way back in May, he knew the job was his.

“I really decided that I was going to run for mayor two years ago,” Hartke said. “So, in many ways this has been the longest runway to mayor than I could have ever projected.”

After months of waiting – and years in the making – Hartke takes over for longtime mayor Jay Tibshraeny at this

See

Pablo Robles/Staff Photographer

Mayor-elect Kevin Hartke, left, will be dropping the “elect” from his title Jan. 10 as he succeeds Mayor Jay Tibshraeny, who will become a justice of the peace after eight years as mayor.

TIBSHRAENY on page 6

See

HARTKE on page 8

Lovable dog comforts police, crime victims

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Managing Editor

A shaggy dog with the warm and fuzzy appeal of a stuffed animal is training to help the Chandler Police Department and crime victims recover from trauma.

Chandler Police introduced their newest four-legged member, Annie, as part of a newly formed Therapy Canine Program.

Annie, who is half golden retriever and half poodle and almost 6 months old, will be used to help boost the psychological well-being of the police department’s sworn and non-sworn employees who experience traumatic events as part of their work.

As part of the Chandler Family Advocacy Center, she will also help support victims of sexually-based

Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

Annie is the Chandler Police Department’s newest employee, working as a therapy dog.

Looking for a Home in Sunny Arizona?

We know the neighborhoods and agents, and we’ve got loans to fit.

Visit joelterrill.com to get started.

offenses and children who have undergone highly stressful incidents.

Annie lives with Det. Brian Wagner and the plan is to have her start her work this month or in February, Chandler Police Sgt. Daniel Mejia, public information officer, said.

“She’s doing great,” Mejia said. “She’s still currently in training. This breed … they’re very calm, easygoing personalities with good temperaments. This is a very good breed that is going to help out with all the therapy, not only to our personnel, police, but also to victims of crimes, especially children that have been subjected to traumatic events. These dogs are trained to basically sense emotional distress.”

The Chandler Family Advocacy Center recently opened at 221 E. Boston St. and it is attached to the department’s main

station on East Chicago Street.

The new center will serve as the central spot for the department’s Special Victims Unit to work directly with other agencies on investigations involving domestic violence as well as child and elderly abuse and other physical and sexual abuse.

It also is meant to provide a comfortable, secure space for victims to get needed help as they start to heal from traumatic events.

The “simple act” of petting dogs relieves stress, Mejia said.

Arizona Goldendoodles, a dog breeder in Peoria, donated Annie to the police last July. Dr. Teri Wiblin of Faust Animal Hospital in Phoenix donated a total puppy package that included all

F E AT U R E STO R I E S Chandler economy likely to keep roaring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Community . . . . . Page 03 Local business strings along guitarists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BUSINESS . . . . . . . . . Page 28 Fiesta Bowl benefitted Chandler teachers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .NEIGHBORS . . . . . . Page 46 Local financial advisor turns into novelist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ARTS . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 59 Carnivore’s paradise opens here . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 69

STFF ................................................................... Center Section

See

CANINE on page 5

More Community . . . . .01-27 Business . . . . . . . 28-32 Sports . . . . . . . . . 41-44 Opinion. . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Neighbors. . . . . . 46-58 Arts . . . . . . . . . . . 59-62 Faith. . . . . . . . . . . 63-64 Directory . . . . . . 65-66 Classifieds. . . . . . 67-68 Where to Eat . . . 69-70

2

480-420-3555

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

www.desertcarcare.com • 95 N. Dobson Road • Chandler

On-Time • Convenient • Certified

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

3

Business growth expected to continue this year

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Managing Editor

Chandler is bursting at the seams and the explosive growth will continue this new year as companies decide to set up shop in the city or expand their operations.

That’s the outlook from Micah Miranda, economic development director for the City of Chandler, and James Smith, economic development innovation manager for the city.

They talked about and pointed out construction, sites where new developments are planned and new buildings already erected during a Chandler Chamber of Commerce and City of Chandler economic bus tour last month.

Members of the business and nonprofit communities, Mayor-elect Kevin Hartke and others rode in two buses around the city. Miranda pointed out construction underway, sharing tidbits about developments, historical information and what attracts businesses to Chandler.

Chandler Chamber of Commerce president/CEO Terri Kimble also shared her excitement about the new and expanding businesses in the city and offered fun facts about companies as she rode on the bus with Miranda.

“This is a very special tour because each year it changes,” Kimble said.

“There is so much going on in the City of Chandler.”

Hartke echoed his enthusiasm for the

Chandler Chamber of Commerce

Chandler Chamber of Commerce members and city offi cials boarded a bus last month to tour the city and check out some of the new developments that are likely to keep the city’s economy humming in 2019.

tour and the growth, saying each time he has gone on past rides, he learned about things he had not known before.

Kimble said “there is so much happening right now” in downtown Chandler, including construction of the Overstreet project at the southwest corner of Arizona Avenue and Chandler Boulevard.

Flix Brewhouse, a dine-in movie theater with a brewery, opened in the Overstreet site last month at 1 W. Chandler Blvd. Kimble said restaurants Camp Social and Over Easy are going to open in Overstreet. She added Camp Social has a “really cool vibe” and Over Easy is “absolutely phenomenal.”

“The city has really invested in

parking,” Kimble said.

A 350-car garage is already open and free for the public at Overstreet.

Kimble added “the fences are up” ahead of construction for the New Square development at the northwest corner of Arizona Avenue and Chicago See

BUS on page 4

Celebrating 15 years of service to the local community!

Special thanks to our terrific team!

480.899.6677

www.ChandlerDentalHealth.com

4

COMMUNITY NEWS

BUS

from page 3

Street across from City Hall.

The Spike Lawrence project will have a three-story office building that is about 47,000 square feet, about 8,700 square feet of retail space and restaurants, as well as a Hilton Garden Inn Hotel and “pocket park” with seating and a small stage for entertainment outside.

DC Steakhouse, a restaurant now at 98 S. San Marcos Place, will move into the New Square development by the end of this year or in early 2020, according to Kim Moyers, downtown redevelopment manager for the city.

QuartHaus, a brewpub, has moved into the former space of nonprofit organization ICAN on South Washington Street downtown, where it has a “great outdoor area where you can play cornhole,” Kimble said.

That building is getting renovated and will soon also open Civic Market, which will include a wood-burning pizza oven, coffee shop, small urban grocery and area for personal services.

Another new business coming to downtown is The Hidden House, a restaurant expected to open next month on Commonwealth Avenue behind SanTan Brewing Company. Kimble said the old, renovated house will have a “great menu” and be “very, very quaint.”

Other restaurants coming to Chandler include The Sleepy Whale and Gadzooks Enchiladas & Soup, which are under construction and expected to open the first quarter of this year. Gadzooks will be on the northwest corner of Frye Road

and Arizona Avenue and The Sleepy Well will be in the building just to the north of Gadzooks.

Downtown is not the only area of Chandler where it is easy to spot construction activity.

Miranda said the city staff members and City Council are “thinking about build-out and the city’s strong economic standing helps spark growth.

“Chandler is one of 30 cities with a AAA bond rating,” Miranda said, adding that affects its ability to borrow money and advance with projects.

Cascade Financial is planning to move its headquarters to The Hub, a two-story creative office building on about 76 acres at 2701 E. Ryan Road, north of Queen Creek Road.

The finance company serves manufactured home buyers in the affordable housing market and will move from Gilbert to Chandler to accommodate future growth.

Miranda also mentioned talks about an Aldi discount grocery store chain possibly coming to the Rockefeller Chandler Crossroads development on the

is a very special tour because each year “itThis changes. There is so much going on in the City of Chandler.”

– Chandler Chamber of Commerce president/CEO Terri Kimble “We really want to drive the private sector into investments that bring jobs to the community,” he said.

Miranda also said the Opportunity Zone – a federal tax incentive for those who invest within certain areas and “designed to spur economic development and job creation” – is between McQueen and Alma School roads and Pecos Road and Chandler Boulevard. New development is continuously taking place there, he said.

Miranda also talked about the Chandler Airpark employment corridor, which he called “It’s our final frontier for job growth.”

northwest corner of Queen Creek and Gilbert roads.

Aldi is planning to greatly expand its presence around the country and already is building its first Arizona store in Gilbert.

Miranda added that companies considering coming to Chandler are “blown away by how nice and clean and safe” the city is.

Offerpad is planning to move to a new facility at the corner of Germann and Cooper roads by March. The new 40,000-square-foot home will include a floating mezzanine and open floor plan. Offerpad is planning to hire more employees so it needs more space,

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

according to the company’s blog.

The bus also drove by the site where construction is going on for the expanded operations of Northrop Grumman, formerly Orbital ATK, a global leader in aerospace and defense technologies, into the Allred Park Place along the Price Road Corridor.

The new building will house office, engineering and manufacturing space with a phased approach late this year, Miranda said.

Besides businesses coming to Chandler, apartments are also being built as demand for multi-family housing continues to grow.

Miranda said 3,200 multi-family housing units were recently finished in the city and about 2,000 units are under construction. Chandler had 28,690 apartments, townhomes and condominiums altogether already built as of May of 2018, according to Susan Fiala, city planner.

Miranda directed riders’ attention to the luxurious Almeria at Ocotillo Apartments on West Edgewater Way, just east of Dobson Road and south of Queen Creek Road, one example of upscale multi-housing units in the city.

Terrie Kolker, an insurance agent with First International Insurance, said she is planning to move into First International Insurance’s new space in Chandler while she currently works in its Gilbert office.

“With the bank coming to Chandler, I wanted to get an understanding of the future businesses that are coming to Chandler and what opportunities are out there for the bank and the insurance company,” Kolker said.

Saturday, February 2, 2019 7 PM

LIVE

Saturday, February 2, 2019 Call 480-380-0106

$37.50PP

SUNLAND VILLAGE EAST7 PM 8026 E Lakeview AveCall Mesa, AZ 85209

LIVE “This Diamond Ring “

480-380-0106

$37.50PP

SUNLAND VILLAGE EAST

performance includes

“She’s Just My Style” “Sealed with 8026 E Lakeview Ave a Kiss”

“Everybody Loves a Clown”

Mesa, AZ “Count Me85209 In” performance includes

“This Diamond Ring “

“She’s Just My Style”

“Everybody Loves a Clown”

“Sealed with a Kiss”

“Count Me In”

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

CANINE

5

from page 1

vaccinations. K9-Games Dog Training of Peoria donated its training services to prepare Annie for her role.

“We’re very appreciative, very proud to have these partners,” Mejia said. “That’s a big plus for our agency. It’s very costeffective and this was made possible because of these partners.”

He said he is not yet sure how much time Annie will spend with each department employee and victim, but she will come to work four days a week, 10 hours a day with Wagner.

“Our profession is very demanding,” Mejia said. “They are exposed to very traumatic events, very traumatic calls. This is another resource that our department has for the overall employee wellness.

The second aspect of this is to expose this therapy dog to victims of crime.”

Maureen Simpson, owner of Arizona Goldendoodles, said therapy dogs are trained to approach people gently.

“When you see Annie, she looks like a large stuffed animal,” Simpson said. “She calms people down. She’ll put her head in your lap. She’s trained to absorb your stress, your emotions. She’s taking that away from you and you will naturally calm down.”

Therapy dogs can be trained to do things like giving people a fist bump, rolling over and performing “little magic tricks,” she added.

“That will make a child laugh that day,” Simpson said. “Maybe a memory that Annie can leave with you is that smile, even if it’s just for a few minutes.”

Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

Rubbing noses with Chandler Police therapy dog Annie is Det. Victoria Flores. Annie will be on hand to comfort police offi cers after traumatic situations as well as victims of violent crime.

She said Wagner contacted her in November 2017 to see if she had a dog that would work as a therapy dog.

Simpson brought Annie in front of a roundtable of several police officers who checked her out to see if she would be a good fit.

“They have to know that this was a good, healthy, emotionally stable dog,” she said. “They really put Annie through the ringer before they accepted her in this program. Nothing fazes her. She’s very loving. This is what Annie was born for.

Therapy dogs are born. They have to be

born with the right heart, the right soul.”

Simpson began her company breeding goldendoodles after she bred Shaggy, another goldendoodle, to help her son, Stevie, 15, who is autistic and epileptic.

“Shaggy is life-changing for my son,” she said. “What started out as a very self-serving thing turned into something that has become a business, but it’s also been a way for me to give back to the community,” she said, adding: “Over and above anything else, Arizona Goldendoodles has become a way for my son to have an outlet. He makes a toy for

every dog. We do temperament testing on every single dog to make sure they’re psychologically prepared. We’re asking a lot of them.”

Simpson said Annie is “doing a great job” in the training.

“She’s working out beautifully,” she said. “She’s exceeded everyone’s expectations. They’re so happy. I’m very passionate about what I do. I love it because of my son. That’s my heart. It’s been a therapy for him and maybe even for me.”

Information: arizonagoldendoodles.com

ACTUAL PATIENT

LOVE YOUR SMILE. It is our mission at Advanced Orthodontics to provide you with YOUR best smile and the best experience. Dr. Larrabee and his team can’t wait to impress you with their award winning results.

Schedule your FREE consultation today.

$500 OFF* EN

I X M AG A

Z

O

PH

E

Invisalign® or Hi-Tech Braces

IN

TOP DENTIS NTI TS NTIS T

thills.com co com azfoothil oothill oothil

No referral necessary.

BE T BES OF OU OUR VALLEY VALLE ALLEY

MESA (480) 357-4900

CHANDLER (480) 550-5500

AOSMILES.COM

* Mention this ad while scheduling your consultation to receive courtesy.

6

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Special to SanTan Sun News

Flix Brewhouse COO Matthew Baizer, left, briefed Chandler Mayor Jay Tibshraeny at the venue’s open house last month. It was one of the last offi cial acts by the mayor, seen on the right as a young member of City Council more than 30 years ago.

and neighborhood disputes.

But first, he has to learn with a handful of other new justices among the 26 districts in Maricopa County. Over the next three months, Tibshraeny will be learning the ins and outs of how to run his court.

“Everything has a routine,” Tibshraeny said. “They’re training us new ones all of the specifics and nuances of running your court and hearing the different kinds of cases and how to do that. There’s a way to do things, so I’m going to learn that.

“I haven’t been doing that, but I’ll pick it up pretty quick.”

If his judicial career is as successful as his lawmaking career, it’s a good bet he will.

Tibshraeny is leaving Chandler after the most productive three decades in the city’s short history. Since Tibshraeny first joined the City Council in 1986, Chandler’s population has grown from around 25,000 to 250,000 and seen growth that has become the envy of the Valley.

Over that time Chandler saw the openings of the Chandler Fashion Center, the Intel campus, the development of Waymo self-driving cars and the emergence of the Price Road Corridor.

“We have the moniker the ‘Innovation

and Technology Hub of the Southwest,” Tibshraeny likes to brag.

That’s not even mentioning recent developments – such as the City Council approving insurance giant All-State’s expansion in Chandler with 2,500 jobs.

“2018 was a really good year for Chandler,” Tibshraeny said.

This month, however, the mayor will hit the pause button on a three-decade career serving the area either as mayor, on the City Council or as a senator in the Arizona Legislature. But he’ll still be involved in the area since the San Marcos district encompasses most of Chandler and Sun Lakes.

Plus, the new job will also give Tibshraeny a hat trick of experience in government, having served in executive, legislative and now judicial roles.

Tibshraeny talked about his decades serving Chandler.

“I never dreamed I’d be a seven-term mayor when I first ran for council,” Tibshraeny said about the first election he entered in 1986. “I didn’t quite know at that time what a quite fantastic ride it would be. But three decades later it’s been a great thing for me to have in my life. I’m very blessed.”

Albert Jay Tibshraeny Jr. has always

lived in Chandler and said he’s “never considered” living anywhere else. He was born in 1954 at a Mesa hospital when Chandler had none.

He was named after his late Lebanese father, whom he calls one of the two people who inspired him most, along with his mother. The family lived in what was then a farming community, when the population was just a few thousand, not hundreds of thousands.

A family member who helped develop some of Chandler’s neighborhoods named Jay Street for the young Tibshraeny in the Tyson Manor subdivision. Tyson is named for one of Tibshraeny’s cousins.

There’s also Tibshraeny Family Park near Cooper Road and Chandler Boulevard in northeast Chandler.

He graduated from Chandler High School in 1972, then moved to Arizona State for college to get his bachelor’s in accounting in 1977.

After graduation, Tibshraeny worked for about a decade in the family’s construction business, Tibshraeny Brothers Construction Co. He had no plans to go into politics at the time, but politics ended up coming to him.

Because of his work with the family business, he was recommended to sit

on the Chandler Planning and Zoning Commission in 1980. City leaders began to take notice of his work on the commission, leading a few to urge the then-31-year-old Tibshraeny to run for the council in 1985, when outgoing Vice Mayor Wayne Lewis was leaving an open seat.

“There was no grand plan to run for council,” Tibshraeny said. “There was an opportunity and a couple of people on council encouraged me to run. I think they liked my work on P&Z. There was no long planned out thing. It just kind of happened.”

Tibshraeny won that first election with more votes than anybody, including Jerry Brooks, Chandler’s mayor at the time.

“In those early years, one of the first things that I kind of took charge of was the city finances,” Tibshraeny said.

“Because at the time, the finances were not real strong. Taking the lead in those in the late ’80s, early ’90s made sure Chandler could become the city it is.”

After four years on the council, he was elected vice mayor in 1990, serving under Coy Payne, Arizona’s first Black mayor.

Four years later, Tibshraeny was the

P residio P rimary C are DR. Cynthia JoRDan, MD DR. MaRie PiMentel, MD DR. Molly Finley, Do MiChelle yoo, Pa-C RaChel Cheney, FnP-C

a a a a

Value based Care new patients welCome same-day appointments aVailable aCCept most major

mediCal insuranCe plans

1100 s dobson rd, ste. 100, Chandler, aZ 85286

presidioprimaryCare.Com

480.347.4300

See

TIBSHRAENY on page 9

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Looking for a Home in Sunny Arizona?

We know the neighborhoods and agents, and we’ve got loans to fit.

It’s high time for you to start enjoying sunny Arizona when you choose! Whether you’re looking for a year-round place, or a second home, talk first to the Joel Terrill Team at Bell Bank Mortgage – then talk to your real estate agent!

We’d love to help make it happen.

Call/text 602.430.0835 today, or visit joelterrill.com to get started.

Liza, Nallely, Malorie and Joel will make sure everything runs smoothly for you. Our goal is to get you through close with the mortgage you need – on time, and with no surprises!

Don’t work with online, fly-by-night outfits, or companies that don’t take the time to get to know you. Our trusted team will listen to you and tailor a mortgage that fits exactly what you need.

20371

7

8

COMMUNITY NEWS

HARTKE

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

from page 1

week’s City Council meeting. He takes the reigns of a city experiencing its greatest prosperity ever, and he knows replacing arguably the most successful mayors in Chandler history won’t be easy.

“We are the best run city in the entire state of Arizona,” Hartke said. “We’re structurally balanced. We’re fiscally sound.

We maintain adequate reserves. We don’t confuse one-time money with ongoing money. In terms of financially, I couldn’t be more excited about being the mayor of Chandler.”

Hartke knows his main job is to keep the good times rolling.

To help him not mess things up, he’s been studying for the job like a law student cramming for the LSATs. He has been attending economic development meetings to introduce himself to CEOs and other city influencers that he will be working with.

He’s a frequent attendee of other city committees and boards. And he’s been educating himself in a wide range of city issues, from zoning to water and everything in between.

“It has just given me a lot of opportunity to explore what don’t I know and to ask questions of those folks, so I think I am as ready as I can be,” Hartke said. “I know what I know, and I know there are a lot of things I don’t know.

“Just because I have been sitting next to the mayor doesn’t mean I have been sitting in the seat. I have worked hard over the last seven or eight months to address those questions.”

To help him devote more time to the job, Hartke is stepping down as lead minister for the Trinity Christian Fellowship, a position he has held since arriving in Chandler 33 years ago. He will still remain on part-time and keep a small office about a mile from City Hall.

“I love the church and love the people,” Hartke said. “But I want to be operating more out of this office than that office.

It’s just where I want to focus my time. So, I’m going to treat this like a full-time job in terms of my time.”

Hartke said he plans to build on community activities that Tibshraeny conducted – like the Mayor’s Listening Tour.

“Like I told him, anything I can do to help him, I’m more than happy to do,” Tibshraeny said. “We both share that common thread of wanting what’s best for

Special to the SanTan Sun News

Lynne and Kevin Hartke have been married 37 years and have four kids and four grandchildren, the most recent arriving last November. While Kevin begins warming the mayor’s seat, Lynne will continue writing. Her book on her mother’s and her own struggle with breast cancer was published in 2017.

Chandler.”

Hartke plans on being “a very active mayor.”

That makes sense for a man who has led an active life.

Blue-collar roots

Hartke grew up in a blue-collar section outside of St. Louis at a time when the Gateway Arch was being erected. His father worked for a printing company and his mother stayed at home to raise Hartke and his two older brothers.

Young Kevin was fascinated with the construction of the Arch and the possibilities it represented. He would regularly climb a tall tree outside the family’s home to watch the progress.

Hartke would go on to earn a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Missouri. He wanted to go to medical school but ended up changing his plans once he moved to northern Minnesota to take a job with a Christian organization that worked with the area’s indigenous people from the Cree, Ojibwe and

Chippewa tribes.

He ended up moving to northern Canada to work on Indian reservations near the Hudson Bay. He wasn’t quite at the Arctic Circle; on some days, he would only see two hours of the sun.

Eventually, Hartke didn’t see a future with the organization he worked for and was looking for other opportunities. In the meantime, he met his future wife, Lynne, and the couple moved into her parents’ southern Minnesota basement with their newborn son to plot their next move.

That’s when he got a call from a little church in Chandler.

“They didn’t have coat racks,” Hartke joked about his interest in the job after years of below-freezing, nasty weather.

Hartke visited Chandler in January 1985, moved here in March and bought a house by that Thanksgiving. At the time Chandler’s population boom was just beginning, but cotton and corn fields still encircled the family’s neighborhood in every direction.

“At the height in the late ’80s and

early ’90s, we were adding 1,000 people a month to Chandler,” Hartke said. “It was roaring.”

The Hartkes’ four children – two boys and two girls – all eventually graduated from Chandler High School. Kevin and Lynne have now been married for 37 years and have four grandchildren – the most recent coming in November.

It’s fitting that Hartke is replacing Tibshraeny because the outgoing mayor had a direct hand in getting the incoming one into politics.

The pair started a working relationship and friendship in the 1980s when Hartke frequently performed invocations of city meetings. Hartke also attended several meetings as a concerned citizen to follow issues such as human rights, homelessness, crime and immigration.

Eventually, Tibshraeny asked Hartke to serve on a city committee in the 1990s to kickstart his political career. Tibshraeny then picked Hartke to serve on the Human

@ Onlinee.c s U m d n i F offe o c h s u r b sage

(480) 250-7159 985 W. Chandler Heights Rd

See

HARTKE on page 10

Open Weekdays From 9-3 Offering Coffee Beans, Brewers, and Wholesale Options

Join Us This Month for a Free Cup of Coffee!

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

TIBSHRAENY

9

from page 6

only candidate to replace Payne as mayor, becoming the city’s youngest mayor ever at 39 and earning the nickname “the Boy Mayor.”

He was re-elected to two-year terms three more times before reaching the maximum of eight years in 2002. Eight years is the same term limit as now, but Chandler has since changed it to two four-year terms.

Either way, Tibshraeny was termed out by then and needed a new challenge.

That’s when state government came calling. Voters in a newly created District 21, which served parts of Chandler and Queen Creek, elected Tibshraeny to the State Senate in 2002.

He stayed active in Chandler issues during his time at the state. He served as chairman for the city’s Museum Advisory Board and was a big advocate for the development of the Price Corridor.

“At the time Motorola was closing and there was a lot of pressure for all the ground around it to go to residential,” Tibshraeny said. “I was a loud voice on saying, ‘No, that needs to be our premiere Price Corridor.’ I’ve taken a lot of pride when I was on council and mayor the first time to keep the Price Corridor preserved for industrial and commercial and business and not apartment and houses.”

He won re-election for his Senate seat through 2010, but he was once again termed out of a position.

However, with then-Chandler Mayor

Special to the SanTan Sun News

When first elected and becoming the city’s youngest mayor, Jay Tibshraeny earned the nickname “The Boy Mayor.” As time went on, Tibshraeny started several outreaches as mayor and made sure he stayed in touch with the community that returned him to public office so often.

Boyd Dunn facing a term limit himself, Tibshraeny figured it was a perfect time to get his old job back. He ran again unopposed in 2010 and won re-election in 2014.

As he looks back on all the ups and downs of the last 30 years – Chandler’s tremendous growth through two major recessions – Tibshraeny said a long-

Chandler MEMORY

COMMUNITY NEWS

CARE

&,i Avenir Senior Living

Resident-Centered Care Specialized Activity Programming Thoughtfully Designed Home Environment Unique Cognitive Placement

----&---(480)719-2135

850 S. Pennington Drive I Chandler, AZ 85224 www.ChandlerMemoryCare.com

term vision, transparency and economic development has led to Chandler’s success.

“All-State was a really good get for Chandler,” Tibshraeny said. “We wanted to start diversifying because we’re already a powerhouse in the innovation and technology industries. This was an effort to further that but also diversify our

economy.”

Tibshraeny said he’s also proud of his close involvement with neighborhood groups, including instituting a “Neighborhood Connect” program and the Mayor’s Listening Tour series.

“We have a lot of new neighborhoods See

TIBSHRAENY on page 14

10

COMMUNITY NEWS

HARTKE

from page 8

Relations Commission that was formed in the wake of what Hartke called the “famous, infamous Chandler Roundup.”

The so-called “Operation Restoration” was a joint operation between federal authorities and local law enforcement to round up hundreds of suspected illegal immigrants. Tibshraeny created the commission to help the city move past the controversial program.

Hartke’s work on those boards led Tibshraeny, who was then a state senator, some former city managers and others to persuade him to take an open City Council seat that Martin Sepulveda vacated when he was deployed to Iraq.

But after nearly a year on the council on an interim basis, Hartke came up a couple hundred votes short when he attempted to win the seat permanently.

“It was disheartening,” Hartke said. “I

think anybody who loses, it just knocks the stuffing out of you because you run because you think you’re a good candidate and you think you’ve got what it takes. So, it’s a bit of soul-searching.”

He now looks at that loss as a blessing in disguise.

Not only did that loss lead to the formation of his nonprofit, For Our City Chandler, but it also gave him a chance to serve on the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission to gain more experience, and it allowed then-Mayor Boyd Dunn to appoint him to lead the city’s 2010 Census count.

“Had I won that election, several things wouldn’t have happened,” Hartke said.

“Mayor Dunn really said we’re going to get you involved. So, I served on those three things in ’09 and ’10 and came back and ran.”

This time he won. He beat Donna Wallace in the general election to earn a spot back on the council – this time his own seat.

The other good thing about having to wait until 2010 is it put him on cycle to

UNDERSTAND YOUR OPTIONS — Learn the different types of senior care available LOCAL KNOWLEDGE — Our Advisors have the local knowledge to help you hand pick communities in your area

run for mayor.

An active agenda

Now that he’s mayor, he has a few areas he wants to focus on: • Keeping the city’s finances on solid footing.

• Maintaining a friendly business climate.

• Discussing Chandler’s interest with the regional transportation tax expiring soon.

• Preserving and conserving the city’s water supply.

• And continuing Chandler’s build out with about 12 percent of city land still available for development.

“I think we’re still knocking it out of the park economically,” Hartke said.

While Hartke is looking to put his own stamp on leading the city, he said he was no doubt influenced by Tibshraeny’s management style. Tibshraeny was known for allowing time for citizens to speak on all sides of an issue at meetings, and Hartke plans to continue to give citizens a voice.

Hartke said being aware of people’s “grassroots fears” is actually crucial for a

A Place for Mom has helped over a million families find senior living solutions that meet their unique needs.

SIMPLIFY — Your dedicated Advisor will simplify your search and help schedule tours

SUN LAKES, AZ

good leader. That’s why he has attended planning and zoning meetings that have ran past midnight for issues he knows will be contentious once they reach the City Council level.

After Thursday’s swearing in, Hartke will give his first State of the City address Feb. 21 at the Chandler Center of the Arts. Four videos are part of what Hartke is calling a “very dynamic, very engaging,” presentation.

“I’m not going to be doing an hour and a half monologue,” Hartke said. “Keep them wanting more. Don’t bore people.”

Hartke doesn’t want to bore himself, either. He will continue his work with his For Our City Chandler and has already planned some outdoor trips.

For Our City Chandler is entering its 10th year, tackling issues such as homelessness, poverty, suicide and drug addiction.

As for the outdoor trips, the Hartkes already have a camping trip planned for the Grand Canyon in March. The incoming mayor said he’s made about “two-dozen” rim-to-rim hikes at the Canyon.

Call today to connect with a

SENIOR LIVING ADVISOR

INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE

There’s no cost to you!

Joan Lunden, journalist, best-selling author, former host of Good Morning America and senior living advocate.

A-1 Golf Carts

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

(844) 880-2798 ! We’re paid by our partner communities

STOP IN AND CHECK OUT THE

NEW E-Z-GO’S! ASK ABOUT THE NEW E-Z-GO ‘LITHIUM’ POWERED CART

2019 E-Z-GO RXV ELiTE

2019 E-Z-GO LX 2019 E-Z-GO L6

0% FINANCING AVAILABLE When you purchase a NEW E-Z-GO!* Finance offers only available at participating E-Z-GO dealers. Approval, rates, applicable fees, and terms provided are based on credit worthiness. Offers only available in 50 U.S. states and District Columbia. Financing offers void where prohibited.

Finance terms are also available for pre-owned E-Z-GO products. Please see your local E-Z-GO Authorized Dealer for details.

25820 S. Arizona Ave. • Sun Lakes, AZ 85248 •

480.895.2000 • www.A1GolfCarts.com

11

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

PHIND YOUR HOME TODAY.

NEW HOME COMMUNITIES Do you suffer from?

Shoulder Pain Knee Pain Neck Pain Elbow Pain Hip Pain Back Pain Wrist Pain "I can't believe how much different my hip feels! With one treatment I went from daily pain and I wasn't even Hand Pain able to ride my horse. Now, after treatment and rehab with Dr. Traum, I'm able to walk with no pain and I'm Pain backFoot on my horse enjoying the trails and desert sunsets. Thanks to 3D Integrated Medical I have my life back."

Ankle Pain -Debbie S.

3D Intergrated Medical Will Help You Get Your Life Back Without Surgery

There are many new advancements in

Stem Cell Therapy

Is it right for you?

Come join Dr. Traum as he discusses the different options of and find out the facts.

Regenerative Medicine

Free lunch Seminar on Stem Cell Therapy Tempe Public Library on Mon., Jan. 14th, 12 PM 3DReserve Integrated Medical 2135upcoming E Southernseminar!

Ave, Ste A your seat at-our 1 on 1 No Cost, No Pressure Consultation:

3dintegratedmedical.com

TAKE ACTION NOW!

SEATING IS LIMITED

480-252-8714 CALL OR TEXT ANYTIME TO RSVP

3dintegratedmedical.com/seminar-schedule

COMMUNITY NEWS

12

Winter breakers

2

Scores of Chandler kids spent their holiday vacation at one of several city-run Winter Break camps, including the Environmental Education Center, where 1) Logan Graham answered questions; 2) Nyla Moon listened to the instructor; 3 and 4) Zachary Schafer etched drawings; 5) and Lily Brauer sketched out planets. 6) Explaining what they would need on Mars are, from left, Juwon Ruy, Juliana Brauer, Brekin Erber, Gloria Acevedo and Tyler Lavigne. 7) Taking a break from studying were, from left, Breckin Erber, Dylan Pfeifer and Micha Eerbe. 8) Working on their presentation are, from left, Zachary Schafer, Colin Kelley and Ameya Krishnan.

All photographs by Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

1

3

6

4

5

7

8

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

13

BEST OF OUR VALLEY

2019 WINNER

azfoothills.com

2019 WINNER

BEST OF OUR VALLEY

azfoothills.com

BEST OF OUR VALLEY

azfoothills.com

azfoothills.com

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

2019 WINNER

BEST OF OUR 6 YEARS VALLEY BEST OF OUR VALLEY

2019 WINNER

$700M+

2,300+

SOLD REAL ESTATE

SOLD HOMES

What are your 2019 housing goals?

Buying your dream home!

Start your home buying journey today at

www.amyjonesgroup.com/buy

OR

Selling your current home.

Get a FREE home valuation at

www.amyjonesgroup.com/sellers

Contact us at (480) 250-3857 or visit us online at www.amyjonesgroup.com

Maricopa County

REAL ESTATE SNAPSHOT Sales volume for the first eleven months of 2018 was .66% higher than 2017, with 87,387 sales in 2018 compared to 86,817 in 2017. We began December with 4,715 pending contracts; 2,898 UCB listings and 417 CCBS giving us a total of 8,030 residential listings practically under contract. This compares to 9,374 of the same type of listings one year ago. The 2018 pending contracts are 16.47% lower than 2017.

Statistics and Analysis ARMLS® COPYRIGHT 2018

60 E. Rio Salado Parkway 11th Floor Tempe, AZ 85281

480-214-4500 info-fntarizona@fnf.com www.fntarizona.com

14

COMMUNITY NEWS

TIBSHRAENY

from page 9

in Chandler, but we also have some that aren’t so new,” Tibshraeny said. “It’s giving them attention and moving from high growth with a lot of new to sustaining what we have.”

The “Neighborhood Connect” program gives residents a way to communicate with City Council leaders face to face.

“One of the first thing I did when I came back was get into one of the neighborhoods in Central Chandler and have a Listening Tour meeting,” Tibshraeny said.

About 50 to 70 people would attend an average meeting. Tibshraeny would usually bring a guest, such as the police chief, to tell them what is going on in

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

their neighborhoods.

“It was a good two-way dialogue and then we could follow up where need be,” Tibshraeny said. “That was just another way to get out and place that mayor stamp of importance on this by being there and participating with them.”

In general, the technological improvements in communication comprise the biggest change Tibshraeny lived through during his time serving Chandler since the 1980s. When he first joined, the city documented everything on paper for years before moving to a CD organization system. The city really didn’t begin filing everything electronically until early this century.

“When I first got on council there was no email,” Tibshraeny said. “There

What can you learn about senior living at our Lunch and Learn?

Oodles.

Ask questions. Take a tour. Ask more questions.

Try the food. Ask even more questions. You get the idea. It’s casual, it’s complimentary and you’re invited.

The Village at Ocotillo’s next Lunch and Learn is Thursday, January 17th at 11:30am.

Please call 480.400.8687 to RSVP.

I n de p e n de n t & A s s i s t e d L i v i ng R e s i de nc e s

990 West Ocotillo Road • Chandler, AZ TheVillageatOcotillo.com • 480.400.8687

City of Chandler

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny summoned a panel of teen advisors annually to discuss issues affecting young people in the city, especially those in high school.

were just letters. Now 99 percent of our communication from our constituents alone comes through email. You shoot me an email, I can shoot you an email right back.”

Tibshraeny also served at the beginning of the Twitter Revolution.

He actively posts city happenings and announcements, but also leaves some

had he been allowed to.

“I love the job,” he said. “It’s something I enjoy doing – working hard and moving Chandler forward.”

Tibshraeny could have run for a City Council seat but decided to run unopposed for the four-year Justice of the Peace position instead. After that,

of the first things I did when I came back was “ One get into one of the neighborhoods in Central Chandler and have a Listening Tour meeting.”

– Mayor Jay Tibshraeny

room for fun fare like sports predictions and trivia, or even happy birthday shout outs, like the one to rocker Bruce Springsteen a few months ago.

“I enjoy it and it’s a good way to communicate with followers,” Tibshraeny said. “I try to do about 80 percent city stuff. But there’s more to me than just my mayor’s job. I am a person with a lot of varied interests.”

That includes sports. Tibshraeny said he’s a fan of all the local sports teams and the Los Angeles Dodgers. He’s also served at times as a youth sports coach and doesn’t hide his love for Chandler High’s sports teams at the expense of Chandler’s two other public high schools.

He’s basically a homer at heart and admits he would have run for mayor again

however, plans are wide open.

“I think I’ll run for something at some point in the future,” Tibshraeny said. “I think I have one more. I’m not sure what that will be at this time. I think it’ll be something on the state level.”

One thing he’s ruled out is attempting to take his mayor position back again for a third time because of his long working relationship with Mayor-elect Kevin Hartke.

“The new incoming mayor is a friend of mine and somebody I’ve worked closely with,” Tibshraeny said.

The two are the longest-tenured members of the City Council. They will pass the gavel at the Jan. 10 City Council meeting.

“At least I’ll be continuing my service, but I’ll certainly miss serving as mayor,” Tibshraeny said.

• Speeds up to 60Mbps • Unlimited data – no data caps

MORE HD CHANNELS, FASTER INTERNET AND UNLIMITED VOICE.

SPECTRUM INTERNET™

29

AS LOW AS

99

$

/per mo. for 12 mos when bundled*

Blazing fast Internet is available and can be yours with Spectrum Internet™ With speeds starting at 60 Mbps 125+ CHANNELS UP TO 60MBPS UNLIMITED CALLING

SPECTRUM TRIPLE PLAYTM TV, INTERNET AND VOICE

89

$ from

97 /mo each for 12 mos when bundled*

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL AUTHORIZED RETAILER

844-872-2820

*Bundle price for TV Select, Internet and Voice is $89.97/mo. for year 1; standard rates apply after year 1. Available Internet speeds may vary by address. WiFi: Equipment, activation and installation fees apply. Services subject to all applicable service terms and conditions, subject to change.

Services not available in all areas. Restrictions apply. All Rights Reserved. ©2017 Charter Communications.

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

15

In battle for bodies, Kyrene uses new tools and sharpens others

BY PAUL MARYNIAK Executive Editor

The days of parents having to trudge over to Kyrene School District’s Tempe headquarters to register a new child are over as the district prepares to launch a new tool in its competition for enrollment.

Next Monday, Jan. 7, Kyrene will launch online registration at its website, Kyrene.org.

In addition, parents of children entering middle school will be able to go online and work together to select electives and choose which of the district’s three middle school programs – International Baccalaureate, AVID and Leader in Me – might be the most suitable.

The online registration for new students gives the parents the flexibility of other interactive websites, Superintendent Jan Vesely said.

Parents who work or can’t conveniently make it to the district’s headquarters can now register their child at their convenience, not Kyrene’s.

“They can upload all the paperwork and fill our all the forms whenever they want. They can do it at midnight,” said district spokeswoman Erin Helm.

Additionally, the move to online registration also ensures continually updated information, including emergency contacts.

For middle school students and their

Pablo Robles/Staff Photographer

Kyrene administrators and board members were on hand last month to open the new addition at Kyrene Traditional Academy in Chandler. The addition, which includes a gym, enabled the district to make the school its fi rst pre-K-6 campus, enabling kids to remain at one site until they’re ready for high school. Otherwise, they would be going fi rst to an elementary and then a middle school.

parents, the information online about electives is particularly liberating.

“Parents now have a much better idea of what we offer,” Vesely said. “They can sit down with their child and look at all the elective choices and actually register. In the past, middle school elective

offerings were mostly driven by what the teacher decided was best for them instead of what the kids are interested in whether it’s Mandarin Chinese or robotics or something else.”

In addition to the online registration and other information now available on

Kyrene’s website, the district also has sharpened its communications program to accomplish three primary missions.

One mission is to keep parents more continually in the loop about their child as well as special programs they may be See

KYRENE on page 16

n e s ior care r u o y f o l l a opt w o n ion k o t e v s. r e s e d You OUR SERVICES Long-Term Care IN-HOME CAREGIVERS

CALL FOR A COMPLIMENTARY ASSESSMENT TODAY. RSVP at

480.999.5250

www.AmadaPhoenix.com

Personal Care | Meal Preparation | Medication Reminders Transportation Services | Exercise Assistance Light Housekeeping | Companionship | Laundry

Insurance Policy?

Attend Our FREE Educational Events:

LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE

February 1: 9am-10am

Free Expert Policy Review | Understanding Your Claim

IronOaks Country Club, Sun Lakes

FINDING SENIOR LIVING

February 1: 12-1pm

Free Expert Policy Review | Understanding Your Claim

Red Mountain Multigenerational Center

VETERANS ASSISTANCE

February 1: 9am-10am

Understand and Claim Your VA Benefits

Mustang Library Scottsdale Public Library

16

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

The Cays slates open house to mark the new year SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Just in time for the closeout of phase two and the launch of phase three, The Cays at Downtown Ocotillo is hosting a New Year closeout event, which is free and open to the public, to celebrate nearly $40 million in real estate sold thus far in Chandler.

On Saturday, Jan. 12 from 10 a.m. to 3

KYRENE

from page 15

interested in.

In a presentation to the school board on Dec. 11, Helm detailed the district’s communications strategy and initiative.

She explained how Kyrene’s switch to a new messenger system that eliminates opt-in emails will produce a more “inclusive culture because we need to be able to engage all of our parents, not just those that are dialed in enough to know where you can go to sign up for emails.”

The second mission involves communicating via social media news that business owners, community leaders and other stakeholders in the district might want to know regardless of whether they have children attending district schools.

The third mission involves advertising the district in an effort to increase enrollment.

A particularly aggressive advertising campaign is focused on parents of pre-

p.m., visitors can eat light bites and tour the community and models.

And anyone who purchases one of the last remaining two-bedroom, twobathroom homes by Jan. 31 and closes by March 31 can get a customized $10,000 closeout incentive tailored to them.

Developed by the Statesman Group, The Cays is a $90-million luxury

condominium community located in Ocotillo with units priced from $300,000.

The Cays offers one- and two-bedroom residences from 862 to 1,512 square feet as well as resort-style amenities.

Residents there also have access to Ocotillo’s 162 acres of man-made lakes, 17 miles of shoreline, spacious parks, walking and biking paths and the 27-

hole championship golf course, recently acquired by Phil Mickelson.

The Ocotillo Golf Resort has been named “one of the best places to play” by Golf Digest Magazine.

The Cays is at 2511 W. Queen Creek Road in Chandler. To RSVP or for more information: TheCaysatOcotillo.com or 480-248-3737.

school children, not only to make parents aware of Kyrene’s alternative to privately run preschool programs, but also to get them into the district at an early age with the hopes they’ll stay right through eighth grade.

Competition for students is fierce among public school districts and public charters since much of the state funding they receive is tied to the number of bodies in classrooms.

And for Kyrene, enrollment is as much tied to the demographics of Ahwatukee, Chandler and Tempe as it is to school choice.

Kyrene took a hit during the Great Recession in 2008, with that year’s first grade and kindergarten dropping by about 200 students from what it typically was seeing coming into the district.

That class has now matriculated through Kyrene’s schools and is entering Tempe Union High School District.

Vesely said she told Tempe Union Superintendent Kevin Mendivil to expect

200 fewer students than what the district had been seeing. Mendivil doubted her prediction, she said, until enrollment figures for the 2018-19 school year were available.

“Sure enough, they were down about 200 students,” Vesely said.

While Kyrene’s demographer had predicted the district would experience a 1 percent decline in student population this year, the district got a pleasant surprise: enrollment stayed flat.

Still, it’s a constant battle made more difficult by the shortage of affordable housing that dissuades families with young children from moving into the district. Moreover, the aging population, particularly in Ahwatukee, means that houses don’t turn over as quickly, further reducing the chances of many new youngsters moving into the district.

That’s why targeting the few new families moving into the district as well as young families who live elsewhere is important to future enrollment, Vesely said.

District officials hope to persuade them to enroll in Kyrene by touting attributes such as the district’s academic programs and choices as well as its schools’ high ratings in performance measures.

“Kyrene School District expanded its preschool programs to all elementary schools, and ‘Get them early and keep them’ is an excellent strategy if it is marketed,” she said.

While “Kyrene has always advertised preschool,” Helm added, more needs to be done to tell that to the world.

“We know we have exceptional preschool programs in Kyrene,” Helm said.

“But we can clearly do a better job of making sure that our community knows it.”

“I believe that if our preschool marketing is specific to preschool, targeted to preschool families, well-timed to preschool enrollment and widespread, then word of mouth will follow and word of mouth is where we want to get to,” she added.

ADVANCED HEARING AID TECHNOLOGY For Less Than $200

How can a hearing aid that costs less than $200

“I was amazed! Sounds I hadn’t heard in years came back to me!”

be every bit as good as one that sells for $2,250 or more

— Don W., Sherman, TX

The answer: Although tremendous strides have been made in Advanced Hearing Aid Technology, those cost reductions have not been passed on to you. Until now...

MDHearingAid® uses the same kind of Advanced Hearing Aid Technology incorporated into hearing aids that cost thousands more at a small fraction of the price.

Over 300,000 satisfied MDHearingAid customers agree: High-quality, FDA-registered hearing aids don’t have to cost a fortune. The fact is, you don’t need to spend thousands for a hearing aid. MDHearingAid is a medical-grade hearing aid offering sophistication and high performance, and works right out of the box with no time-consuming “adjustment” appointments. You can contact a licensed hearing specialist conveniently online or by phone — even after your purchase at no cost. No other company provides such extensive support.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR Now that you know...why pay more?

Can a Hearing Aid Delay or Prevent Alzheimer’s and Dementia?

A study by the National Institute on Aging suggests older individuals with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop Alzheimer’s and dementia over time than those who retain their hearing. They suggest that an intervention — such as a hearing aid — could delay or prevent this by improving hearing!

DOCTOR DESIGNED | AUDIOLOGIST TESTED | FDA REGISTERED

Proudly assembled in America!

45-DAY RISK-FREE TRIAL!

Hearing is believing and we invite you to try this nearly invisible hearing aid with no annoying whistling or background noise for yourself. If you are not completely satisfied with your MDHearingAid, return it within 45 days for a FULL REFUND.

For the Lowest Price Call 1-855-383-8347 Use Code

HQ99 and get FREE Batteries for 1 Year Plus FREE Shipping

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

17

Around Chandler ‘LibCon’ slated later this month in Chandler

Teens and pre-teens are invited to Chandler Hamilton Library 6-9:30 p.m.

Jan. 19 for its eighth annual LibCon teensonly convention that celebrates sci-fi, fantasy, anime, cosplay and gaming.

Returning this year will be a cosplay fashion show, as well as the K-Pop groups from both Hamilton High and Basha High.

There will be a DJ and two food vendors, and the Hamilton High Digital Arts Club members will demonstrate how they create the digital art they’ve imagined.

LibCon began eight years ago as a program targeting young people ages 12-18 who wanted to have the “con” experience – like the recent Phoenix Comic Fest – but without adults.

Library Assistant Allyson Bullock, who has been part of the planning staff for the past three years, said, “The costumes and cosplay that the teens create and wear are always a hit. The time and effort some attendees put into their outfits is amazing. They are so well thought out and inventive that they look just like the character they are representing.”

Information: facebook.com/libcon, or 480-782-2800.

Chandler Christian eyes new campus here in 2020 Chandler Christian Academy has officially placed land in escrow for the school’s future home – a 4.5-acre site on McQueen Road south of Chandler

Heights Road that will become the permanent campus in mid 2020.

A 30,000-square-foot building will include two classrooms per grade level, a full gymnasium and dedicated rooms for music and art. The campus will also include a multipurpose field, playgrounds, outdoor common space and room for future buildings.

The facility will allow CCA to offer expanded special education services, additional sports and after school activities, as well as summer programs.

CCA’s current location on the Chandler campus of Desert Springs Church serves more than 200 preschool through eighth grade students. The school offers small class sizes and a Biblically based curriculum as well as after-school activities that include athletics, worship team and student council.

CCA partners with Arizona Christian School Tuition Organization to provide scholarships. More information about ACSTO: acsto.org, or 480-820-0403.

The CCA school board offers in-house scholarships for seventh and eighth grade students. An open house with enrollment information for the 2019-20 school year is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Jan. 28 at 19620 S. McQueen Road, Chandler. RSVP: Neja Croneberger at 480-899-9197.

its new shopping center at Gilbert and Ocotillo roads.

“The intersection of Gilbert & Ocotillo is one of many projects in the southeast valley that director of retail leasing & sales investments Rommie Mojahad and senior advisor Beau Flahart are involved with,” the company said in a release, calling the development “SVN’s 2018 Deal of the Year.”

A spokeswoman said the project “began with a simple rendering of what the retail development could look like” and changed multiple times to meet tenants’ needs.

Those tenants, their space and the value of the leases are: Grubstak Ocotillo, 2,604 square feet, $1,025,976; Gather Loft Salon Suites, 6,320 square feet, $1,606,382; Flossophy Dental, 2,000 square feet, $878,068; AT&T, 10,000 square feet, $936,719; Advanced Orthodontics, 4,000 square feet, $1,561,006; and Teriyaki Madness, 1,889 square feet, $837,087.

The leases total approximately $6.85 million – slightly more than half the total deals made in two years to complete the strip mall.

“Landlords are bringing in more unique restaurant concepts to attract foot traffic,” the spokeswoman noted.

Grubstak made it their second Chandler location.

Developer marks full leasing of local strip mall

Chandler Regional workers spread cheer to kids

SVN Desert Commercial Advisors is celebrating the leasing of all space at

Employees who make up the community outreach committee in the maternal child health department at Dignity

Health Chandler Regional Medical Center organized a successful toy drive for Jose’s Closet last month.

The nonprofit helps foster children and children being adopted in Apache Junction by providing clothes, toys, strollers, school backpacks, diapers and other needed supplies.

Dignity Health employees raised enough toys and clothes to completely fill two SUVs, a 15-passenger van and a 6-foot trailer. Donations provided through the Dignity Health toy drive went directly to families in need.

“It was wonderful seeing how simple acts of kindness can enlighten others to spread the good feeling. I am very proud to say that I work for Dignity Health,” said Registered Nurse Lyn Cluever. “I am grateful for all the great people I work with and the wonderful community we are part of. There is so much love and giving!”

This is the second year the department has supported Jose’s Closet. Children are often removed from their homes with only the clothes they are wearing and many have never had anything to call their own. According to Jose’s Closet, Arizona has more than 20,000 kids in foster care at this time.

Chandler woman indicted for using fake ID

A state grand jury has indicted a Chandler woman whose nursing license was revoked for insurance fraud after she See

AROUND on page 18

Where Great Food, Craft Beer & Sports Collide INCREDIBLE CHICKEN WINGS KID’S MENU W/ FREE ICE CREAM BUFFALO’D CAULIFLOWER WARM FRIENDLY STAFF AWARD WINNING CRAFT BEERS BACON SIRACHA BRUSSEL SPROUTS OLD SCHOOL FRIDAY FISH FRY FULL SPIRITS/GREAT WINES CHANDLER FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED YOUR HOME FOR FOOTBALL

480.963.8000 • 1760 W. Chandler Blvd, Chandler • HungryMonkAZ.com

COMMUNITY NEWS

18

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Around Chandler

AROUND

from page 17

allegedly used a stolen identity to try and obtain a new nursing license.

Laura Lynn Bell, 40, used a falsified Arizona driver license and a Superior Court name change form to petition her alma mater, the University of South Alabama, to change the name on her official transcripts to another person’s name in an attempt to get a new nursing license, Arizona Department of Transportation officials said.

The grand jury indicted her on four criminal counts.

The university became suspicious of Bell’s request and contacted the Arizona State Board of Nursing, which in turn contacted the Arizona Department of Insurance, which brought the original insurance fraud case against her.

Those agencies requested assistance from ADOT’s Office of Inspector General since a forged credential was involved.

When ADOT detectives served a warrant at Bell’s home, they found forged court documents and other papers listing the other individual’s name. They also obtained a forged driver license created on Bell’s computer.

Bell was arrested and jailed at the Fourth Avenue Jail on new counts of forgery and identity fraud in addition to the insurance fraud case previously brought against her.

City, East Valley Jewish Center hold Klezmer Fest

The East Valley JCC and the City of Chandler will celebrate klezmer music as they present the Valley’s first Klezmer Fest this month.

Klezmer is the traditional Jewish folk music of Eastern European Jewish communities. Over time, the style of music has grown to include instrumental music, Yiddish vocal music and modern fusion music that combines klezmer with world music such as Afro-pop, rock or hip hop.

The screening of the documentary “The Last Klezmer: Leopold Kozlowski, His Life and Music,” followed by a musical performance by the film’s director and klezmer expert Yale Strom, will be held at 6 p.m. Jan. 10 at Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler.

A Klezmer Music Festival will take place noon-5 p.m. Jan. 13 at the East Valley JCC, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. The event will feature musical performances

by Yale Strom, Chai Tones, Jerusafunk and the Rural Street Klezmer Band.

The music festival will also include a Yiddish experience, with genealogy workshops, Yiddish poetry readings and songs, lectures and crafts. There will also be children’s activities, such as inflatables, face-painting and a petting zoo, as well as kosher food available for sale by ChickIn, a kosher restaurant on the campus of Arizona State University.

Yale Strom is an American violinist, composer, filmmaker, writer, educator, photographer and playwright. He is considered a pioneer among klezmer revivalists with his comprehensive field research in Central and Eastern Europe and the Balkans within the Jewish and Roma communities. He has directed several award-winning documentary films, including “The Last Klezmer: Leopold Kozlowski, His Life and Music.”

Students from the Chandler Unified School District will have an opportunity during the week to hear a performance

by Yale Strom, with some Chandler high school students performing with him.

Other performers at the music festival will be the Rural Street Klezmer Band of Temple Emanuel of Tempe, which plays traditional Jewish soul music inspired by Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Yiddish theater and American jazz.

Also, the Chai Tones, a klezmer band from Temple Chai in Phoenix that has performed throughout the Valley; and Jerusafunk, a nine-piece ensemble in Phoenix that blends traditional klezmer music with American Funk and other world music genres, such as jazz, salsa and samba.

Tickets for the Jan. 10 event are $15.

Tickets for the Klezmer Music Festival on Jan. 13 are $15 for adults, $5 children up to age 12.

Information: evjcc.org/klezmerfest or 480-897-0588.

Red Cross holding 4 blood drives in Chandler

In an effort to compensate for the seasonal decline in donations that occurs from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, Red Cross has slated four blood drives in Chandler this month.

The first is 9 a.m.-2 p.m. today, Jan. 5, at the Boys and Girls Club of America, 300 E. Chandler Blvd. The others are: 1-6 p.m. Jan. 8 at Chandler Gilbert Family YMCA, 1655 W. Frye Road; 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Jan. 9 at Earnhardt Ford, 7300 W. Orchid Lane and 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Jan. 12 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Stake, 1950 W. Galveston St.

“Facercise” explained at Sun Lakes workshop Jan. 12

Dr. Kathryn Parslow will discuss “Facerzise” 2:30-3:30 p.m. Jan 12 at Sun Lakes Country Club 25601 S. Sun Lakes Blvd.

Facercise is a “natural” facelift technique that involves one of the world’s top 100 beauty products.

It is a series of 13 professionally developed exercises designed to tone and tighten the 57 muscles of the neck and face.

Parslow is board certified through the International & American Association of Clinical Nutritionists. She has 25 years in clinical, private and corporate education and is licensed and certified in Facercise.

She is also a nationally published author and a media personality.

Mirada teacher earns national certification SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

A Chandler teacher at Mirada Leadership Academy is one of four Kyrene School District educators who recently were certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching standards.

Hannah Parnell is now one of 53 Kyrene educators with national certification.

Kyrene Superintendent Jan Vesely praised Parnell’s achievement, noting it can take years of study and demonstrating in various ways their competency before a teacher earns national certification.

Only 1,460 teachers out of about 50,000 in Arizona have national board certification and another 664 in the state

are candidates. Currently more than 118,000 teachers nationwide are certified – representing less than 5 percent of all teachers in the country.

While it can take years to earn certification, the process allows teachers to sharpen their practice, showcase their talent in the classroom and demonstrate their dedication to students and their profession.

It also benefits them as well as students, according to the board’s website, noting that certification “opens doors” to new opportunities and advancement and qualifies them for more pay.

“A decade of research shows that students of board-certified teachers learn more than their peers without boardcertified teachers,” the board says, adding

wednesdays sundays

SPECIALS

Mondays

amazing lunch specials SENIOR NIGHT From 3pm - 9pm Buy one entree and get one entree free

(55 & older/dine in only/restrictions apply)

KIDS EAT FREE From 4pm - 9pm

(1 free kids meal off kids menu per adult purchase/dine in only)

8 Large 1 topping pizza

that “the positive impact of having a board-certified teacher is even greater for minority and low-income students.”

Certification is awarded to teachers who can demonstrate proficiency and achievement in line with the “five core propositions” that the board – made up of teachers – have patterned after medicine’s Hippocratic Oath.

Those propositions involve a commitment to students and their learning; a knowledge of the subjects they teach and how to teach them; a responsibility for managing and monitoring student learning; a systematic approach to their practice and ability to learn from experience; and membership in learning communities that exchange ideas about, and approaches to, teaching

starting at

480-812-8433

monday - friday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Let us cater your next event!

Everyday Special!

1/2 OFF

Buy 1 pizza or entree and get the nd 2 of equal or lesser value at 1/2 price!

$

All day • Dine in or take out!

4.75

$

for professional development.

National Board Standards “define what accomplished teachers should know and be able to do” in 25 different academic areas, the board states. “They represent 16 different subject areas and four developmental levels and are applicable to most teachers in U.S. public schools.”

The standards are developed by committees of classroom teachers as well as experts in child development, teacher education and relevant disciplines.

And candidates can only achieve certification if they “exhibit a deep understanding of their students, content knowledge, use of data and assessments and teaching practice” and “provide evidence of ongoing reflection and continuous learning.”

Look for our Pizza Muffin Truck!

Please present coupon at time of order. One coupon per visit. Alcohol purchases not included. Not valid with any other specials. Offer expires 1-19-2019.

PIZZA, PASTA & WINE 590 North Alma School Road • Located in the Granada Plaza

www.Floridinos.net

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Lawmaker wants to make it easier to dodge traffic tickets

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

Arizona motorists accused of speeding and other offenses could soon have a new way to escape their tickets – and the higher insurance rates that follow.

A proposal by Sen. John Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills, would allow drivers who think they are innocent – or think they can convince a judge of that – to attend defensive driving classes if they are unable to make their case in court.

Right now, that opportunity is available only to those who choose not to contest a citation. The moment someone fights it, the defensive driving option evaporates.

Motorists who successfully complete the four-hour classes, whether in person or online, have the citation wiped from their records. That means no points on their license.

And a ticket erased with a defensive

driving class is not reported to insurance companies, meaning they cannot use the citation as an excuse to jack up a premium.

Kavanagh, who crafted HB 2005, said it’s only fair that all motorists be given the same chance to wipe out their tickets.

“If a person is innocent and wants to avail themselves of their rights to plead not guilty, but unfortunately are erroneously found guilty, they should still have the right to take the course to improve themselves and not get points on their license,’’ he said.

But David Childers, who lobbies for the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America, said it’s not that simple.

He said the insurance companies he represents have no problem with all motorists who get traffic tickets going to defensive driving school to become more skilled behind the wheel. The issue, Childers said, is hiding their citations from insurance companies.

He said insurers have to bring in enough money to cover their losses. And right now, that system is built on those drivers whose habits are more likely to cause claims paying more.

Conversely, good drivers pay less.

Blocking insurers from knowing about those bad drivers, he said, undermines all that.

“The people who don’t get tickets will pay for the people who do,’’ Childers said.

Kavanagh sees the issue through a different lens.

He contends that many of the people who fight traffic tickets are really not guilty of anything. But the current system, Kavanagh said, discourages them from fighting for fear they will lose – and lose the opportunity to have the citation erased.

“So you reward people who break the law and you penalize people who didn’t and avail themselves of their constitutional right to plead not guilty,’’ he said.

That, of course, presumes that everyone who goes to court really is innocent and not simply hoping to escape the ticket on a technicality or because the police officer does not show up.

Kavanagh, however, said it’s irrelevant to him even if the person actually did commit the traffic offense.

“Even if the person who pleads not guilty is guilty, they should have the same rights as the person who is guilty and pleads guilty,’’ he said.

Kavanagh said the current law makes no sense.

“Are we sending people to driving school because we want them to learn something to become safer drivers?’’ he asked.

“Or are we sending people to driving school to bribe them not to avail themselves of their constitutional rights to adjudication?’’

Childers said his clients likely have no problem incentivizing people to attend defensive driving classes – and becoming safer drivers – as long as the information about their tickets was forwarded to the insurance companies to make adjustments in their rates and ensure that only the motorists with bad habits pay the additional charges.

“There could be an issue there,’’ Kavanagh said of rates going up on good drivers to pay for the bad ones who are not identified. But here, too, he questions the fairness of some of the speeding citations that motorists get.

“It’s balanced the other way because of how easy it is to get an undeserved photo radar ticket,’’ he said.

This is far from the first time that Arizona lawmakers have tinkered with the idea of making it easier for motorists to escape tickets – and higher premiums.

At one time defensive driving classes ran seven hours, requiring people to sit in a classroom for two evenings or one weekend day. That has since been shortened to just four hours. And now motorists actually can take the class online from home or office.

And three years ago, legislators agreed to let motorists escape a citation once every 12 months by taking the classes.

Before that, a driver could not wipe out a second ticket issued within 24 months.

No date has been set for a hearing on the legislation.

49 YEARS OF TRUSTWORTHY SERVICE!

1,000

FOR DISCOUNTS UP TO

$

DID YOU KNOW: HENDEL’S HAS THE ONLY AIR CONDITIONING SHOWROOM

ON QUALIFYING EQUIPMENT

• With Fully Operational equipment

A FREE WI-FI Thermostat

Before you purchase a new airconditioning system, stop in our showroom and SEE how HENDEL’S will install your new system.

plus

Expires 2/28/2019.

Joe Sez -

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! Ask about: • Free in-home Educational Assessment • Multi Unit Discounts • SRP Rebates

• Displaying ALL Major brands • Open 7 Days a Week

89

$

Maintenance Inspection

Prolong the life of your A/C and heater and maintain maximum performance of your home.

Not valid with any other offers. Expires 2/28/2019.

WE SELL PARTS!

7 DAYS A WEEK!

480-813-1700 www.hendels.com 3434 N. Arizona Ave. | Chandler, AZ 85225-7707

19

20

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

WINTER TUNE-UP SPECIAL!

$

64 REG. $99

Includes a 16-Point Inspection LIMITED TIME ONLY RESIDENTIAL ONLY

Happy Holidays from all of us!

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

PROMOTION

0

% APR FOR 48 MONTHS

OR *

DISCOUNTS UP TO

1,000

$

**

G

Your Hometown Air Conditioning Specialist Happy Holidays from all of us!!!

SUMMER LIMITED TIME OFFER! UP TO r UP TO AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

te -up n i e W un T

FREE days$3,650 from all of us!!!

3,950

LIMITED TIME OFFER! UP TO $ $ n Air Conditioning Specialist 4,000 FREE

TUNE-UP WINTER TUNE-UP

69

$ $ 64

UPGRADE TO 10-Year Partsand Labor SUMMER IMITED TIME OFFER! 10-YearParts and Labor onditioning Specialist Your Hometown Air Conditioning Specialist UNSTOPPABLE. LimitedWarranty* TUNE-UP LimitedWarranty* 4140 S ARIZONA AVE. CONTACT US TODAY! Happy Holidays from all of us!!!

IN REBATES WINTER IN rom all of us!!!

REG. $99.

MITED UP TIME OFFER! *On Selected Systems SUMMER LIMITED TIME OFFER! TO UP TOOFFER! 480-848-5997 SUMMER Hometown Air Conditioning Specialist TUNE-UP TUNE-UPCHANDLER, AZ 85248 ( 1,295 Value D Your TIME ($1,495 - No Charge) WINTER Includes a 16-Point IN REBATES $ LIMITED TIME OFFER! Up to $800 in UP TOHolidays from TUNE-UP Happy allOFFER! ofTHE us!!!

TUNE-UP $$OR Inspection plus a FREE WINTER FREE $ Utility Rebates* SUMMER 0% APR $ WITH PURCHASE LIMITED TIME UP TO Year Partsand Labor 4,000 IME OFFER! FREE condenser coil rinse OR -YearParts $ $andUPLaborTO 10-Year Partsand Labor TUNE-UP 69 TUNE-UP WINTER imitedWarranty* Up to $800 in LimitedWarranty* 3,950 OF A NEW A/C64 SYSTEM LIMITED TIME if accessible LimitedWarranty* $ Your Hometown OR UP TO48 0R IN REBATES FOR 60 MO* * OFFER! REBATES $INFOR TUNE-UP REG.PURCHASE $99. *On$Selected Systems WITH THE OF A NEW FREE 48 OR 60 MO. $ Utility Rebates* $ Labor INSTALLATION RESIDENTIAL ONLY 4,000 d($1,495 ( Labor 1,295 Value Conditioning -REBATES No Charge) INAir FREE * Specialist!

Includes a 16-Point $ $ A/C SYSTEM INSTALLATION 10-YearPartsand OR 0% APR WITH THE PURCHASE FOR 48APR OR LimitedWarranty* 60 MO. ty* Inspection plus a OR 0% 3,950 64 TH THE PURCHASE OF A NEW A/C SYSTEM OR 0% APR IN REBATES condenser coil rinse FOR 48 0R 60 MO* REG. $99. emsIN FOR REBATES 48 OR S ISYSTEM N C60 E MO. 19 8 2 4808987909 INSTALLATION Up to $800 in Service Call A NEW A/C if accessible arge) FOR 48 OR 60 MO. Includes a 16-Point IN480-893-8335 REBATES WITH THE PURCHASE OF A NEW Utility 0% APR APR Inspection plus aRESIDENTIAL WITH THE Rebates* PURCHASE INSTALLATION ONLY www.brewersac.com Service Call Second Opinion CHASE OROR480-893-8335 0% A/C SYSTEM INSTALLATION condenser rinsein Up coil to $800

REBATES FREE 69 3,650 0% APR 64 E 3,650 0% APR 69 69 64 *On Selected Systems ($1,295 Value - No Charge)

Trane systems are put through the harshest testing imaginable—

all so they can run through anything. And now, you can get a r p greattedeal u on the most reliable brand of heating and cooling. in e- from 0% APR for 48 months* or discounts up to $1,000**.

Choose W un We T never stop finding ways to bring you products that never stop.

r te up in eW un ($1,295 Value - No Charge) ed Systems $ T

Up to $800 in Utility Rebates*

REG. $99.

$

It’s Hard To Stop A Trane.

®

10-YearParts and Labor LimitedWarranty*

*On Selected Systems ($1,295 Value - No Charge) ($1,495

*On Selected Systems ($1,295 Value - No Charge)

Up to $800 in Utility Rebates*

REG. $99.

25% OFF FREE

REG. $99.

Includes a 16-Point

REG. $99.

Includes a 16-Point Inspection plus a Includes a 16-Point Inspection plus a 10-YearParts and Labor condenser coil rinse condenser coil rinse Inspection plus a LimitedWarranty* if accessible if accessible condenser REG. $99. *On *Selected Systems ($1,295 ValueSystems -THE No Charge)PURCHASE RESIDENTIAL ONLY *On Selected WITH OF A coil NEWrinseREG. $99.

Up to $800 in Utility Rebates* REG. $99.

ROC #C39-312643 RESIDENTIAL ONLY * ($1,495 if accessible ($1,295 Value - No SYSTEM Charge) A/C INSTALLATION Includes a 16-Point Up to $800 in Includes a 16-Point Includes a 16-Point RESIDENTIAL ONLY Inspection plus a Inspection plus a Utility Rebates* S I N C E 1 9 8 2 ROC #C39-312643 Inspection plus a condenser coil rinse (WITH REPAIR) condenser coil rinse LIC. coil NO. 1231231 rinse Acondenser NEW A/C SYSTEM if accessible ifA+accessible Rating FOR 48 Up 0R 60 MO* * OFin to $800 RESIDENTIAL ONLY WITH THE PURCHASE OF A NEW YSTEM if accessible if accessible Utility Rebates* INSTALLATION RESIDENTIAL ONLY *The Wells Fargo Home Projects credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Bank N.A., an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with * SINCE SINCE 1982 #C39-312643 A/C SYSTEM INSTALLATION RESIDENTIAL ONLY (WITH REPAIR) approved credit.

The terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for thisROC purchase will be the amount CHASE OFUtility Aspecial NEW Rebates*

arge)

Includes a 16-Point Inspection plus a condenser coil rinse if accessible RESIDENTIAL ONLY

480-893-8335 0% APR FREE www.BrewersAC.com

OR480-893-8335 Second Opinion FOR 48 OR 60 MO. www.BrewersAC.com Service Call ONFOR 48 OR 60 MO. RESIDENTIAL ONLY

(WITH REPAIR)

A+ Rating

ALL ACCESSORIES www.BrewersAC.com .Br FREEFREE

335 www.BrewersAC.com INSTALLATION Call Second Service Opinion 480-893-8335 5sAC.com Second Opinion Service 480-893-8335 SINCE 1982 Call Service Call www.BrewersAC.com Second Opinion FREE Second Opinion ewersAC.com www.BrewersAC.com

1982

ROC #C39-312643

that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late *Up to to $4,650 Brewer’s Dealer Rebate, up to $800 Utility Rebate. The Wells Fargo Home Projects credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Financial National Bank, an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms A+ Rating payment fee if you use the card for transactions. new accounts, APR for Purchases is 28.99%.

If you are interest in anypayment billing cycle, the is minimum apply toto qualifying purchases charged withother approved credit.

The For special willthe continue to Rebate. apply until all The qualifying purchases arecharged paid in full.

The monthly for this purchase will be theby Wells Fargo Financial National Bank, an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms *Up toor $4,650 Brewer’s Dealer Rebate, upterms to APR $800 Utility Wells Home Projects credit card issued ROC #C39-312643 A+ Rating (WITH REPAIR) A+Fargo Rating amountcharge that will will pay for purchase full in equal payments during promotional (special terms) period.

The APRFor for current Purchases will apply to certain such as a late payment fee expires or if you use interest be the $1.00.

Thisininformation is accurate as the of 8/1/2018 and is subject change. information, call usfees at 1-800-431-5921. apply toother qualifying charged approved Theto interest special terms APR continue to apply untilOffer all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the the card for transactions.purchases For new accounts, the APR for with Purchases is 28.99%. Ifcredit. you are charged in any billing cycle, thewill minimum interest charge will be $1.00.

This information is 12/15/2018. your independent Dealer for complete program dates, details and restrictions.

Special financing offers OR discounts up to $1,000 valid accurate as**See ofthat 7/1/2017 is subject change.

For current information, call equal us eligibility, at 1-800-431-5921.

Offerduring expires 12/31/2017. amount willandpay fortoTrane the purchase in full in payments the promotional (specialA+terms) Rating period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use on qualifying equipment only. Offers vary by equipment. All sales must be to homeowners in the United States. Void where prohibited.

S I N C E 19 8 2

FREE om

A interest L L VAS ES, T RAYS, TA the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR forROC Purchases is(WITH 28.99%.

If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum charge will be $1.00.

This information is B L E REPAIR) #C39-312643

accurate ofBrewer’s 7/1/2017 andDealer isRebate, subject For Rebate. current information, callHome us atProjects 12/31/2017. *Up toas$4,650 Brewer’s Rebate, up to $800 Utility Rebate.

TheSINCE Wells Fargo Home Projects cardexpires issued

by Wells Fargoan Up to to a $3,200 in Dealer uptotochange. $800 Utility **The Wells Fargo credit cardcredit is Offer issued byisWells Fargo Bank N.A., 19821-800-431-5921.

ROC #C39-312643 Rating Financial National an terms Equal Housing Lender.A+ Special terms toHousing qualifying purchases charged with approved credit.

The special Fargo Home Projects credit cardBank, is issued

by Wells Fargo Financial National Bank, anapply Equal Lender.

Special terms Equal Housing Lender.

Special apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit.

The special terms APR will continue to apply until all A+ Rating $4,650 Brewer’s Dealer Rebate, up toqualifying $800 Utility Rebate.

The Wells Fargo Home Projects credit cardmonthly is issued by payment Wells Fargo Financial National Bank, an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms A+ Rating will be the amount APR*Up willto tocontinue to apply until all purchases are paid in full.

The for this purchase will befor the terms APR will continue tocredit. apply until allAPR qualifying are paid inarebefull. monthly payment for this apply toqualifying qualifying purchases charged with approved The special willpayment continue topurchases apply until qualifying purchases paid inThe full.

The monthly payment this purchase will bepurchase the purchases are paid inforfull.

Thetheterms monthly forperiod. thisall purchase the amount pay purchase in full in equal payments motional terms) period.

The APR Purchases will apply toterms) certain fees such aswill a late payment feethat or ifaswill you useforfeethe amount(special that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during promotional (special The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such a late payment or if you use will pay for the purchase infor full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period.

The APR isfor Purchases will apply to the cardduring foryou otherare transactions.

For new accounts, theany APR Purchases is 28.99%.

Ifminimum youfor are charged interest will incharge any apply billingwill cycle, the $1.00. minimum interest charge $1.00. information or 28.99%.

Ifthat charged interest in billing cycle, theAPR interest This information is This the promotional (special terms) period.

Purchases to be certain fees such aswilla be late payment if you use the card for other 1982 ROC #C39-312643 as of 7/1/2017 andSINCE isOffer subject expires toas change.

For current information, atif1-800-431-5921. expiresfor 12/31/2017. certain fees such a late payment feecallorusThe you use theOffercard other transactions.

For new accounts, the fee APR for Purchases is 28.99%. us ataccurate 1-800-431-5921.

12/31/2017. transactions.

For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%.

If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interestascharge will be $1.00.

If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. This information is accurate of 7/1/2017 and is issuedThis

by Wells Fargo Financial National Bank, an Equal Housing Lender.

Special terms A+ Rating information is accurate as of 3/13/2018 and is call subject to change.

For current information, call12/31/2017. us at 1-800-431-5921.

Offer expires 8/31/2018. is subject to change.

For current information, us at 1-800-431-5921.

Offer expires 3/31/2018.

(WITH REPAIR) all qualifying are inpaid in full.

The monthly payment for thisRebate. purchase will be the toa $3,200 topurchases $4,650 Brewer’s Dealer Rebate, up to $800 Utility The Wells Fargo Home Projects credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Up*Up to*The Brewer’s Dealer Rebate, up to $800 Utility Rebate. **The Wells Fargo Home Projects credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Bank N.A., an Wells Fargo Home card is issued Fargo Housing Lender. Special (WITH REPAIR) The APR for Purchases will apply to Projects certain feescredit such as a late paymentby feeWells or if you use Bank N.A., an Equal Utility Rebate. **The Wells Fargo Home Projects credit is issued Wells Fargo Bank N.A., an Financial National an Equal Housing Lender.

Special terms apply qualifying purchases charged with approved credit.

Theapply special Equal Housing Lender.

Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged withtocard approved credit.

The by special terms APRwill willcontinue continue totoapply until all apply toBank, qualifying purchases charged approved credit. special terms APR erest in terms any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be with $1.00.

This information is The piresterms 12/31/2017. continue purchases to apply untilare all qualifying purchases are paidpayment in full. Theformonthly payment forwillthisbepurchase will bethat the amount untilAPR all will qualifying paid in full.

The monthly this purchase the amount will (WITH REPAIR)

TO P S, P I L LOWS, F LO O R VAS ES & M O R E !

FREE rsAC.com terms APR will continue to apply until all Service qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount Call FREE

Service Call Opinion Ends January Financial National Bank, an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases Sale chargedSecond with approved credit. The 20th special

*Up to $4,650 Brewer’s Dealer Rebate, to $800 Utility Rebate.

TheFargo WellsHome FargoProjects Home credit Projects cardbyisWells issued

by Wells Fargoan Up to to a $3,200 Brewer’s in Dealer Rebate, up toup $800 Utility Rebate. **The Wells cardcredit is issued Fargo Bank N.A., (WITH REPAIR)

Equal Housing Lender. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all Service Call Second Opinion $800qualifying Utility Rebate.

The Wells Projects creditpayment card is issued Wells Fargo purchases are Fargo paid inHome full. The monthly for thisbypurchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments

FREE

Second Opinion that will pay for the purchase inpurchase full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to er.

Special terms apply qualifying purchases charged with approved credit.

The purchases arepromotional paid inwith full.toThe monthly payment for this will beterms the amount that will pay for the purchase in full inspecial equal payments ng qualifying purchases charged approved credit.

The special APR will continue to apply until allto tocertain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other during the (special terms) period.

The APR for Purchases will apply thatpay will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period.

The card APR forAPR Purchases will apply for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period.

The forother Purchases certain fees such as a late payment or if you the for transactions.

For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. ng purchases are paid in full.

The monthly payment for this will the during the promotional (special terms) period.

The APR for Purchases will applyfee to certain fees suchpurchase asuse a late payment fee be or if you useamount the card for other certain fees as a latefees payment ora iflate youpayment use thethat card for transactions.

For newother accounts, the APR forForPurchases is 28.99%. ment for thissuch purchase will befeeasaccounts, the amount will pay forthe thecard purchase in full inIf equal payments will apply to certain such fee orother if you use for transactions. new accounts, transactions.

For new the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00.

Service Call transactions.

For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%.

If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. ments during the promotional (special terms) period.

The APR for Purchases will apply to IfareAPR you are charged interest inissued any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge If you charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge $1.00.

ThisN.A., information is accurate as ofcharge 7/1/2017 .for The Wells Fargo Home Projects credit card islate issued bybilling Wells Fargo the for Purchases is 28.99%.

Ifcard you are charged interest inwill anybe cycle, the an minimum interest willand will be $1.00. This information is accurate as of 7/1/2017 and Wells Fargo Home Projects credit is by Wells Fargo Bank Purchases willinformation apply toinformation, certain fees such asFor a and payment fee or ifFor you use the card forcallother Second Opinion This information is accurate as of 3/13/2018 and is subject to change. current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921.

Offer expires 8/31/2018. is subject to change.

For current call us at 1-800-431-5921.

Offer expires 12/31/2017. be $1.00.

This is accurate as of 8/1/2018 is subject to change. current information, us at 3/31/2018. use forcredit. other transactions.

For new accounts, APR for at Purchases isFor 28.99%.

This information is accurate as ofAPR 3/13/2018 andthe subject to change. current information, call12/31/2017. us at 1-800-431-5921. Offer expires 8/31/2018. tothe qualifying purchases charged with approved credit.

The special iscard subject tocharged change.

For current information, call us 1-800-431-5921.

Offer expires 3/31/2018. dply with approved The special terms will continue tois apply until 1-800-431-5921. expires 12/31/2019. yourcycle, independent Trane Dealer forall complete program 28.99%.

If interest you are Offer interest in any**See billing the minimum interest charge will beeligibility, $1.00. eisaidminimum charge will be $1.00.

This information is accurate as of 7/1/2017 and in full.

The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount dates, details and restrictions.

Special offers OR up to payments $1,000 valid on qualifying equipment S P I C E U PYO U R H O M E .CO M be the amount that will pay for financing the purchase in discounts full in equal bject toonly. change.

For by current information, callAPR ustoatfor 1-800-431-5921.

Offer expires 8/31/2018. leuswillat 1-800-431-5921.

Offer expires 12/31/2017.

3/31/2018.

Offers vary equipment.

All sales must be homeowners in thewill United States. prohibited. romotional (special terms) period.

The Purchases apply toVoid where ply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other her transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. charged any billing the minimum interestascharge will be $1.00. charge interest will be in$1.00.

This cycle, information is accurate of 7/1/2017 and

FREE

(WITH REPAIR)

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

21

Move over, Sophia; Make maternity room for Jessica

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

One thing is clear from the latest list of the most popular baby names in Arizona this year.

The women born three decades ago are choosing entirely different names for their new babies.

Consider Jessica. In 1988 it was the top name chosen by Arizona families for their new girls.

Even 15 years ago it was still in the Top 20.

And now? There are so few Jessicas born in Arizona that it doesn’t even make the 100 most popular names for girls born in this state that is compiled annually by the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Put another way, there were more Rylees, Evas, Sadies, Autums and Daleyza born in Arizona this year than Jessicas.

But it isn’t just Jessica that has fallen out of favor.

Take Ashley which was No. 2 in 1988.

Also nowhere on this year’s Top 100.

Ditto Amanda, Sarah and Jennifer which rounded out the 1988 Top 5.

What’s replaced them?

Emma, the 2017 top choice of Arizona

parents, makes a repeat appearance in the same position. Yet that’s a name that was nowhere near the top of the list three decades ago when the current crop of parents were being named themselves.

There are other indications of trends coming and going.

A decade ago the name Nevaeh – Heaven spelled backward – cracked the Top 20.

Various sources credited the sudden increase in popularity with a decision by Sonny Sandoval, frontman for the Christian rock group P.O.D – Payable on Death – to choose that name for his newborn daughter and take her on MTV in 2000.

This year? It sits at No. 78.

Literature and movies also have effects.

Remember the “Twilight’’ series that was so popular a decade ago with heroine Bella Swan? In 2010, the name Bella cracked the Top 20 list after the novels and movies about vampires and werewolves.

This year? Not so much, with Bella down to No. 33.

For boys, the shift in preferences are not always as radical.

Sure, Liam tops the 2018 chart, followed by Noah, Sebastian, Oliver and Benjamin. Those are all names that were

not near the top 30 years ago.

But in some ways Liam is just another form of William. And that was among the Top 20 in 1988.

On the other side of the equation, not all of the popular names from 30 years ago have disappeared.

In 1988, Michael was the top name for boys. And even this year it came in at No. 13.

And James and Daniel, other names out of the Bible, are about about as popular now as they were in 1988.

Among non-Biblical names, however, the list is a bit more volatile.

Ryan, a Top 20 name from 1988, has now fallen to No. 84. And Justin, Kyle and Brandon have all now dropped off the Top 100 list entirely.

How the top 10 names have changed Top 10 names for boys for selected years:

1 -- 2 -- 3 -- 4 -- 5 -- 6 -- 7 -- 8 -- 9 -- 10 --

1988 Micheal Christopher Matthew Joshua Daniel David Andrew Robert Justin Ryan

2003 Jacob Jose Daniel Michael Anthony Angel Jesus Joshua Andrew David

Top 10 names for girls for selected years:

1988 2003 1 -- Jessica Emily 2 -- Ashley Emma 3 -- Amanda Ashley 4 -- Sarah Alyssa 5 -- Jennifer Samantha 6 -- Stephanie Isabella 7 -- Brittany Alexis 8 -- Samantha Madison 9 -- Nicole Abigail 10 -- Danielle Hannah

2013 Liam Jacob Noah Daniel Alexander Aiden Michael Mason Anthony Jayden

2018 Liam Noah Sebastian Oliver Benjamin Daniel Mateo Alexander Julian Elijah

2013 Sophia Isabella Emma Mia Olivia Emily Abigail Ava Sofia Madison

2018 Emma Olivia Mia Isabella Sophia Mila Camila Charlotte Amelia Emily

-- Source: Arizona Department of Health Services

OPEN I NG S O ON I N QU EEN C R EEK

Take advantage of pre-model pricing!

- Half-acre to nearly one-acre home sites feature estate-sized homes ranging from 3,464 to 5,595 sq. ft.

- Gated neighborhood with outdoor amenities including clubhouse, dog park and playground.

- Award-winning architecture, seven floor plans, all single-story homes.

Visit TollBrothers.com/WhisperRanch | 19899 E. Natalie Way, Queen Creek, AZ 85142 | 844-836-5263 Tuesday–Sunday 10 am–5:30 pm, and Monday 12 noon–5:30 pm. Brokers welcome. Homes available nationwide. Prices subject to change without notice. Photos are images only and should not be relied upon to confirm applicable features. This is not an offering where prohibited by law. Listing Broker Toll Brothers Real Estate Inc.

22

NO INTEREST for 60 MONTHS (OAC)

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Flix fanfare

2

1

City and community leaders were on hand for the grand opening of Flix Brewhouse in downtown Chandler last month. 1) Leslie Gonzalez played Mary Poppins and was fl anked

by Councilmen Mark Stewart, left, and Terry Roe. 2) Flanking company General Manager Brandon Becker were Mayor-elect Kevin Hartke and Chandler Chamber President/CEO Terri Kimble. 3) Gonzalez played the title character of the opening movie, “The Return of Mary Poppins.” 4) Guests toured the cavernous lobby.

All photographs by Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

4

3

The

Face

of Reliability, Knowledge & Experience in Dental Implant Surgery

Nish Shah,

D.M.D., M.D., F.A.C.S. BOARD CERTIFIED ORAL SURGEON Fellow, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Fellow, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Fellow, American Dental Society of Anesthesiology, Arizona State Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Fellow, American College of Surgeons

• Free Implant Consult & CT Scan • Free Second Opinion

Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation to see if you are a candidate for dental implants.

480.814.9503

Chandler: 2450 W Ray Rd, Suite 1 l Chandler, AZ 85224 | azoral.com San Tan Valley: 36327 N Gantzel Rd Suite 102 l San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

23

24

City of Chandler Insider

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

2018 was a busy, exciting year for Chandler

BY CITY OF CHANDLER STAFF

Let’s take a look back at the highlights that defined the past year in the City of Chandler.

City of Chandler

The Chandler Multicultural Festival showcases the diversity of Chandler’s community.

January

The year kicked off with a #1 ranking from WalletHub that named Chandler the Best Place to Find a Job in a nationwide study. The new ranking reflects the continued growth of Chandler’s economy over the past year, moving up from a ranking of seventh nationally in 2017.

The Fire Academy welcomed 20 new recruits to start the process of becoming a Chandler firefighter.

The Chandler City Council unanimously voted during its Jan. 11 meeting to elect Councilmember Nora Ellen as the city’s new Vice Mayor, to serve in the position for approximately one year.

Walgreens opened a pharmacy operations support center on the Price Corridor in a 60,000-square-foot facility that houses approximately 500 employees.

Chandler’s Diversity Office hosted a Celebration of Unity including a photography exhibit and play, the 23rd Annual Chandler Multicultural Festival, a peace pole dedication and a candlelight vigil. The weekend series of events attracted thousands of attendees.

The second phase of improvements along Arizona Avenue between Pecos and Frye roads started in January. These “New Front Door” improvements enhanced the entryway into the Downtown corridor from the Santan Freeway.

The Cambria Hotel & Suites opened at Chandler Viridian, near Chandler Fashion Mall. The 136-room hotel also is home to an on-site restaurant and features 1,300 square feet of meeting space.

City of Chandler

The Chandler Science Spectacular continues to be a favorite community event where families can experience just how fun science can be.

February

Chandler Municipal Airport hosted an Open House where thousands of residents and visitors were able to experience the airport up close and personal. Chandler Airport continues to be among the nation’s busiest general aviation airports with more than 200,000 operations each year.

During his annual State of City Address, Mayor Jay Tibshraeny highlighted Chandler’s many achievements and important topics from the past year. The theme focused on the city’s beginnings, highlighting its strong foundation, successes throughout the years, as it transformed itself from a small agricultural city to today’s Innovation and Technology Hub. A themed, animated opening video focused on the best of Chandler last year – while paying tribute to Chandler beginnings.

The City’s Economic Development Division hosted the 8th annual Chandler Science Spectacular. The event was sponsored by Intel and Orbital ATK, and thousands were in attendance to experience science in a fun and interactive way.

Eight individual athletes and coaches were inducted into the Chandler Sports Hall of Fame. Mayor Jay Tibshraeny also was honored during the event with a Special Recognition Award.

Chandler hosted Budget Connect, a public forum focused on the City’s 2018-19 fiscal year budget and Capital Improvement Program. The online forum was broadcast live on the City website while staff monitored email and social media accounts for questions and comments from Chandler residents.

Eleven individuals and the Chandler Lions Club were honored for their volunteer service from January to December 2017, during Chandler’s seventh annual Volunteer Recognition Breakfast.

During the event, Pastor Jose P. Gonzalez and Monica Pope were inducted into the 1,000 Hour Club for serving more than 1,000 hours of volunteer work to Chandler organizations.

The SHE Power Half Marathon & 5K returned to the Downtown and had 1,700 participants with 128 non-Arizonan participants representing 35 states.

The City kicked off its annual Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. Once completed, five tax preparation sites generated refunds of approximately $1.62 million for 1,452 low- to moderate-income residents. Sixty volunteers invested more than 4,500 hours assisting residents.

March

The Neighborhood Programs Office hosted the Spring HOA Academy for Chandler residents. The free series of classes were held in partnership with Mulcahy Law Firm, Shaw & Lines, LLC, VF Law Firm and Chandler’s Stormwater Program.

The Chandler Museum was recognized by the Museum Association of Arizona with the Institutional Award of Excellence.

Chandler Public Library was selected as one of 20 public libraries nationwide to receive a $10,000 American Dream Literacy Initiative grant from the American Library Association (ALA) and Dollar General Literacy Foundation. With the funding, Chandler Public Library expanded the services of its Adult Literacy classes with new updated textbooks and teacher’s guides, as well as maps, dictionaries, flash cards and digital devices.

Chandler Police released its annual report, which highlighted the events and accomplishments of the past fiscal year.

During spring break, several high school teens participated in the Teen

Leadership Academy. The week-long program exposed youth to the inner working of City departments.

Erie Well, the oldest drinking water well operated by the City, was retired after helping quench Chandler’s thirst for more than 60 years. The well was abandoned because sand had begun mixing with the water, and the cost to rehab the well is not economically feasible.

File photo

A rocket was launched to mark the groundbreaking for Orbital ATK Vehicles Headquarters along the Price Road Corridor.

April

Chandler Public Library launched its new app that lets users quickly tap into library resources anytime, anywhere, from their mobile devices.

Orbital ATK, one of the world’s leading aerospace and defense technology firms, broke ground on the expansion of their Launch Vehicles Division’s new facility in Chandler. The company will be moving into the Allred Park Place along the Price Corridor, which is known for being home to leading edge companies focused on advanced business services, aerospace, life sciences, sustainable and high technology research and manufacturing.

Chandler Fire conducted its annual neighborhood walk to promote water safety and drowning prevention. The event targets a different section of the city each year. This year, the walk area was in South Chandler and targeted 10,190 homes.

Chandler won the annual Battle of the Burbs contest organized by radio station Mix 96.9 FM. The grand prize was a free concert in Downtown Chandler featuring Mat Kearney.

Mayor Tibshraeny took City Hall on the road with his Mayor’s Listening Tour held at San Marcos Elementary School.

Listening Tours are a great way to engage with the Mayor, Councilmembers, City management and staff and active neighborhood leaders. During this month, the Mayor also hosted his final Family Bike Ride.

Chandler hosted its annual Jazz Festival that attracted more than 10,000 people to Downtown Chandler over a two-day event.

Two Census tracts in Chandler were selected to participate in a new federal program to spur economic development.

The Opportunity Zones program was established by Congress in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. The program offers federal tax benefits to encourage private investment in low-income areas.

The City’s Environmental Education Center celebrated its 10th anniversary by hosting an Earth Day and Arbor Day celebration.

May

The City Council approved amendments to the City’s zoning code

File photo

WingSpan Business Investments during the groundbreaking of its new Aviation Center at Chandler Municipal Airport.

and as a result, Chandler became the first city in the nation to include autonomous vehicles and ride sharing in its zoning code. The amendments prepare Chandler for a future increase in autonomous vehicles and ride share usage. The updated code now allows more flexibility to adjust parking ratios as transportation behavior evolves.

Vice Mayor Nora Ellen resigned from the Chandler City Council to run for the State Legislature.

Peixoto Coffee Roasters announced the need to expand its production capacity and signed a lease for an 8,000-square-foot facility in Uptown Chandler near Arizona Avenue and Elliot Road.

WingSpan Corp celebrated a groundbreaking with the Mayor and council for their new Aviation Center at Chandler Municipal Airport. The 4.8-acre site will include four two-story hangars, accompanied by 28,000 square feet of office space.

The Arizona Water Association named Chandler’s Ocotillo Water Reclamation Facility Expansion Project their 2018 Wastewater Project of the Year.

City of Chandler

Chandler sponsored an open house at its new Fire Station No. 11.

June

June kicked off with a grand opening of the City’s new Fire Station No. 11. The Department built the 10,500-square-foot station to address several existing and future service needs.

The Chandler Fire Department was named among the nation’s elite, ranking in the top one percent in fire suppression capabilities with a Class 1 rating according to Insurance Services Organization, the leading supplier of statistical information to the fire insurance industry. Class 1 generally represents superior property fire protection. Chandler’s classification improved from a Class 3 to a Class 1, a rating that was in place since 1991.

Assistant City Manager Nachie Marquez retired from the City after 17 years of service to the community.

The City’s tourism logo and brand message were revamped as a component of the recent Tourism Strategic Plan.

See

2018 on page 25

City of Chandler Insider

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

2018

from page 24

The rebrand is in the process of being implemented across all tourism print and digital media.

The Chandler City Council voted unanimously during its June 28 meeting to select Councilmember René Lopez as the City’s new Vice Mayor until Jan. 10, 2019. During the same meeting, Jeremy McClymonds was appointed to serve on the City Council through January 2021 to fill the seat vacated by Nora Ellen.

Chandler Housing and Redevelopment held a grand opening of the newly renovated Public Housing Youth Center.

The facility includes reconfigured community space and a brand new computer lab for public housing youth residents.

The Chandler Diversity Office, along with the City’s Communications and Public Affairs Department, partnered with the Chandler International Film Festival to launch CINETIME. The series featured eight independent films on the City’s YouTube and video channel with the potential to add more.

July

The new and improved chandleraz.gov website was launched. The custom site was built on an open source technology platform and content management system that allows staff to keep pace with technology and features.

Break Time, a guide for daily leisure and recreational opportunities in Chandler, unveiled a fresh, new look with its Fall 2018 issue. The update aims to

showcase the authentic reality of today’s File photo

During Operation Back to School Chandler, haircuts and backpacks were given to kids in need.

Chandler community and highlights the everyday fun of recreational programs.

Phoenix Magazine named the Commonwealth Avenue Canal Redevelopment in Downtown Chandler the Best New Attraction in a Downtown Setting. Editors shared that “The artsy design transforms this once dirt-filled canal into an enlightened pedestrian pathway where painted walls resemble agricultural fields, seeded glass beads make you think of water and photographic murals share the history itself.”

The Chandler Center for the Arts kicked off its annual “On the House” free summer concert series sponsored

by Intel. The five free shows during JulySeptember gave families and individuals the opportunity to attend a professional performance that is entertaining and affordable.

Chandler’s Neighborhood Resources Department partnered with For Our City Chandler to host the annual Operation Back to School event. Thousands of children and their parents gathered

With more than 25 bars, lounges and restaurants to experiment with tastes from around the world, we guarantee you’ll find something to satisfy your unique appetite.

Your Best Life is Waiting.

So You, Do You.

I N D U LG E I N YO U R INDIVIDUALITY

PlayAtGila.com | 800-WIN-GILA Owned and operated by the Gila River Indian Community

COMMUNITY NEWS

to receive free backpacks filled with donated school supplies, plus new shoes, socks, underwear and uniforms.

Chandler Police announced the grand opening of a newly constructed Family Advocacy Center, which now enables police staff to provide a new level of services to victims of very serious crimes.

Chandler’s Parks and Recreation hosted a successful party in the park at the City’s annual July 4th Fireworks Spectacular. The Division also celebrated National Park and Recreation Month with its super hero theme and a series of free activities.

August

Chandler Police and Chandler Fire

File photo

Dave Bigos, the long-time assistant to the mayor and council, retired after 25 years of service.

celebrated the grand opening of the Chandler Public Safety Training Center.

Besides the ability to have joint training resources, the shared facility also is a cost

25

saving measure to both departments.

The Arizona Chapter of the American Public Works Association recognized a major intersection improvement project in Chandler as their “Project of the Year.” The $11 million Alma School Road/Chandler Boulevard Intersection Improvement Project was completed late last year. The intersection improvements involved the complete rebuilding of the intersection to add dual left-turn lanes, dedicated right-turn lanes, bike lanes, bus pullouts, new signals, street lighting and more.

The Chandler Public Library and the City’s Economic Development Division co-hosted free Build Your Business In Chandler workshops to help small business owners start or grow their business. The four-part series was held at the Downtown Library and highlighted various topics from financing to marketing.

Dave Bigos, the long-time assistant to the mayor and council, retired after 25 years of service.

Rogers Corporation, a global leader in engineered material solutions, announced it will expand its presence on Chandler’s Price Corridor. The company purchased real estate, buildings and equipment to support its Advanced Connectivity Solutions (ACS) business segment. The company has been manufacturing in the Chandler area for more than 50 years.

Bridgepoint Education signed a lease for 130,000 square feet at Ascend at Chandler Airport Center. The company will use the property for a call center, See

2018 on page 26

26

City of Chandler Insider

COMMUNITY NEWS

2018

from page 25

general offices and administrative offices.

In the August Primary Election, Chandler voters elected Kevin Hartke as the next mayor of Chandler. Current Councilmembers Terry Roe and René Lopez were re-elected, along with former City Councilmember Matt Orlando. In addition, voters overwhelmingly passed the Local Alternative Expenditure Limitation/Home Rule Option (Prop. 408).

August was Drowning Impact Awareness Month. Chandler Aquatics, Police and Fire shared messages on social media to educate residents on the importance of watching children around water.

City of Chandler

A free eCab service debuted downtown Chandler.

September

Debra Stapleton was selected as Chandler’s new Assistant City Manager.

Stapleton previously served as Chandler’s human resources director since 1999 and was promoted to administrative services director in 2016 to oversee buildings and facilities, fleet services, human resources and information technology.

More than 200 people attended the inaugural The Startup Connection. The

two-day event kicked off with a cocktail reception followed by a full day of presentations, discussions and workshops at the ASU Chandler Innovation Center.

The theme was “the art of the pitch and the science of funding” for new businesses looking to attract angel and venture capital investment.

Visitors to Downtown Chandler can now get free shuttle rides from four parking garages to destinations throughout the downtown area with a new e-cab service, dubbed the “Wave.”

The vehicles circulate from the parking garages through the downtown square and to nearby venues.

A 350-stall parking garage opened in Downtown Chandler as part of the $25 million Overstreet development. Located on the northwest corner of Buffalo and Oregon streets, the Overstreet parking garage is free 24 hours a day and will serve daily shoppers, diners and moviegoers.

Mayor Tibshraeny took City Hall on the road again with a successful Mayor’s Listening Tour held at Sylvia Encinas Hartford Elementary School.

October

The City Council broke ground on New Square Chandler, located directly across from Chandler City Hall. The first phase will consist of a three-story, 51,000-squarefoot office building; an 8,700-square-foot retail and restaurant building; and a fourstory Hilton Garden Inn. The awards kept coming for the Alma School Road/Chandler Boulevard Intersection Improvement Project. Kimley-Horn and Associates,

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

File photo

Crayola Experience selected Chandler as its fifth location for its popular family attraction.

Inc. and the City received an Honor Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Arizona in the Transportation category. The award recognizes engineering firms for projects that demonstrate an exceptional degree of innovation, complexity, achievement and value.

Chandler was honored with an Award of Distinction in one of Arizona’s oldest and most prestigious competitions, Arizona Forward’s Environmental Excellence Awards. Chandler earned the award in the Sustainable Communities category for a Downtown Chandler project that extended Dakota Street, rebuilt Commonwealth Avenue and rehabilitated a historic Salt River Project (SRP) canal.

A $122 million construction project that expanded the wastewater treatment capacity of Chandler’s Ocotillo Water Reclamation Facility (OWRF) received a 2018 Best Projects Award for the Southwest Region from Engineering News-Record. The OWRF Expansion project won in the “Water/Environment” category.

Crayola Experience selected Chandler as its fifth location for its popular family attraction. The 20,000-squarefoot-facility will be located at Chandler Fashion Center and also include a Crayola Store. There will be 19 hands-on activities to keep your family entertained while showing off their creativity. Crayola Experience will open in summer 2019.

The Mayor’s Day of Play returned to Chandler’s Tumbleweed Park and offered families the opportunity to explore many recreational options the community has to offer.

Chandler’s Neighborhood Resources Department organized another successful For Our City Day. In addition to the $28,000 of in-kind materials donated by business partners, 715 volunteers contributed $70,600 in service hours to benefit the Historic South Chandler Neighborhood.

November

Chandler launched its ChangeUp campaign, a new way to change how you give to panhandlers. Residents may text 44-321 to donate directly to programs and services that benefit long-term solutions to end homelessness.

Construction of the Tumbleweed Tree started in preparation for the annual Tumbleweed Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights. Nearly 1,000 tumbling tumbleweeds are collected each year

by Park Operations staff and are used to adorn a 25-foot tall wire frame. Then, the tumbleweeds are sprayed with 25 gallons of white paint, 20 gallons of flame See

2018 on page 27

Golf Equipment | Men’s Boutique | Lifestyle and Fitness Apparel

P E O N!!!

W O N

5 $ 225

BUY 4 Golf Simulators Large Repair & Club Building Shop Large Putting Green 4975 S Alma School Rd. Chandler AZ 85248

480.802.5555 hornaceksgolf.com

1 Hour Sessions

in the indoor golf simulator & get

1 FREE 1 hour Lesson with a golf pro.

Value $60

City of Chandler Insider

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

City of Chandler

The fi rst annual Día de los Muertos event was hosted by the Chandler Diversity Offi ce and Creative+Cultural.

2018

from page 26

retardant, dusted with 65 pounds of glitter and adorned with approximately 1,200 holiday lights.

The third annual Safety and Veterans Expo (S.A.V.E.) was held at Veterans Oasis Park. The event shared information for our Veteran community, as well as public safety activities from Chandler Fire and Police departments.

Each November, Chandler residents are asked to share their feedback about City priorities during the Budget Survey. The survey ran through the end of the year and results are shared with the Mayor, council and City management and staff.

City staff conducted outreach to present proposed Mobile Food Unit Code changes to the public and local business community. Chandler recently modified its existing code to align with requirements of the State’s new legislation that changed how cities can license and regulate mobile food units. The modifications also executed the council’s

vision, which is to make business-friendly changes to the City Code.

The City’s Community Services Department hosted its annual Golf Challenge, Woofstock and Chuck Wagon Cook-Off – attracting thousands of people (and four-legged friends).

The Mayor and council broke ground for the new Oregon Street parking garage.

This garage will be completed in late 2019 and have 940 parking spaces on the west side of Arizona Avenue – adding even more free parking in the Downtown.

The City’s Diversity Office partnered with Creative + Cultural to host the first annual Día de los Muertos to honor and celebrate loved ones who have passed on. Both Chandler Police and Fire departments had beautiful altars on display to pay tribute to their fallen officers and firefighters.

The City of Chandler, along with Infinity Coworking, Chandler Innovations and the Chandler Chamber of Commerce, celebrated Global Entrepreneurship Week (Nov. 12-18) by hosting a panel discussion featuring women entrepreneurs.

December

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the Chandler City Council officially kicked off the 2018 holiday season with the annual Parade of Lights, followed by the 62nd Tumbleweed Tree lighting.

For the first time, the parade route was extended beyond Chandler High School up to Erie Street. Chandler Video also broadcast the entire parade live on Facebook.

Allstate Insurance Company, a Fortune 100 company based in Northbrook,

COMMUNITY NEWS

Illinois, selected Chandler, Ariz. to establish a new insurance operations center. It’s expected to create 2,500 jobs over a five-year period and occupy 225,000 square feet of office space. As part of the agreement, Allstate also is considering capital investment of at least $35 million to develop a new corporate campus in Chandler that would consist of approximately 250,000 square feet.

Cascade Financial Services, a specialized finance company serving Manufactured Home Buyers in the affordable housing space, announced the relocation of its headquarters to The Hub from its Gilbert, Ariz. location to accommodate future growth. They will occupy more than 52,000 square feet in the 298,000-square-foot office building.

The City officially opened the long-

awaited Chandler Museum on the southwest corner of Frye Road and Chandler Village Drive, near Chandler Fashion Center. The museum includes a 10,000-square-foot building and 13,000-square-foot outdoor space. The modern building is the centerpiece of the new museum campus and it was designed to complement the historic house, preserving and honoring the past while representing our progress as a community with a bright future.

Downtown Chandler is home to the new Flix Brewhouse, a dine-in movie theatre and brewery. It’s the chain’s first theater in Arizona, and the first major tenant to open at Overstreet, the new entertainment development on the southwest corner of Arizona Avenue and Chandler Boulevard.

Accolades abound in 2018 Chandler was among the top cities on many lists this year. Here is some of the

special recognition: • The website WalletHub ranked Chandler in numerous lists, including • #1 Best Place to Find a Job • #2 Best City to Buy a Family Home • #3 Best Place to Rent • #11 Best City for First Time Homebuyers • #11 Best Places to Live If You Have a Disability • #19 Best Place to Raise a Family • Expedia.com: #30 Top Rated Vacation Destination in North America • Niche.com: #2 Best Places to Live in Arizona • RewardExpert.com: #3 Top Midsize U.S. Cities for Meetings and Conventions • ValuePenguin: #7 Best Cities for Young Families to Buy a Home • The website SmartAsset.com also ranked Chandler on various lists, including: • #4 Highest Home Ownership among Singles • #8 Most Livable Cities • #13 Best Cities for Women in Tech

Doors & Windows

WE WILL BEAT ANY ESTIMATE (apples to apples) (*if you want an estimate on oranges we can provide that too) Must order by Feb. 28th, 2019

Entry Doors

Call Now Window Coverings and Shutters Interior Doors Stacking and Bi-Folding Doors Interior Barn Doors

27

602.508.0800 | liwindow.com 4454 East Thomas Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85018

28

Business

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Seasoned guitarist strings together new shop

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Managing Editor

A plucky veteran guitarist is hoping to help other musicians hit a high note on the stringed instruments he is selling at his new Chandler business.

Scott LeComte, 46, who began playing guitar at age 9, started Groove Musical Instruments in October and is planning to start selling ukuleles this month and violins by midsummer.

He also intends to start selling acoustic guitars by the summer and possibly some electronics through Groove Musical Instruments.

“I’ll probably add mandolins and maybe banjos, maybe cellos,” LeComte said. “If you buy an instrument from me, it’s going to be set up and the best playable instrument it can be. It will be tuned. Intonation will be set. I design them with the best tone in mind. I want to give people a quality instrument at a lower price that they’ll enjoy right out of the box.”

LeComte is not stringing customers along either.

He is a master luthier, a distinction earned when someone reaches a level of expertise in building and repairing stringed instruments. He got his training from Larry Spotten, a master luthier who owns the Original Guitar Medic in

Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

Scott LeComte, who began playing guitar at age 9, started Groove Musical Instruments in October and is planning to start selling ukuleles this month and violins before next school year begins.

Oregon.

A well-respected IT expert, LeComte also owns D Squared Luthiery along with co-owner and fellow luthier Dennis Schimanski.

With that 5-year-old company, LeComte and Schimanski repair any stringed instruments. D Squared Luthiery operates out of LeComte’s Chandler home. LeComte said Schimanski is

going to help him with Groove Musical Instruments.

Groove Musical Instruments also See

GROOVE on page 29

Chandler ropes in 2,500 jobs with Allstate center

BY JASON STONE Staff Writer

Chandler’s job market is still in good hands.

Allstate Insurance Company’s plan to lease more space in the city – and possibly build its own corporate center – is creating at least 2,500 jobs in the region.

The Chandler City Council signed off on the deal last month after two years of negotiations with the global insurance giant.

“We think it’s a pretty prudent deal,” said James Smith, Chandler’s economic development innovation manager. “It’s not many times a Fortune 500 company comes to the door. This is a Fortune 100 company.”

Massive incentives to lure Allstate will put Chandler on the books for a little more than $5 million, but because the incentives are performance-based, Chandler isn’t on the hook for any money upfront and assumes little risk in the deal.

Plus, financial studies show it could bring in more than $5.29 million in benefits each year over an eight-year period. That revenue could grow past $6.6 million if Allstate decides to build a permanent campus in Chandler.

“It’s been the goal of this council to diversify Chandler’s economy,” Mayor Jay Tibshraeny said. “Chandler is the innovation and technology hub of the Southwest, and we already have the strong presence in technology. We need

(Special to SanTan Sun News)

James Smith, Chandler’s economic development innovation manager, said Allstate must create the jobs within five years.

to diversify our economy, so we’re not at risk to any downturns in any particular sector of the economy.”

City officials began negotiating with the Illinois-based company in 2017. It already employs 500 people at 217,000 square feet of office space at Park Place in the Price Road Corridor and at the One Chandler Corporate Center.

The development agreement calls

for the city to pay Allstate around $5.4 million in fees for job creation and development if the company agrees to construct its own corporate campus.

The city is also kicking in nearly $1.5 million for hiring, training and relocating employees to the city.

Chandler will make the payments to Allstate over nine years as long as the company actually creates the jobs. The

city is requiring Allstate to reapply for incentive reimbursements every year.

Smith said this is Chandler’s way of accounting for the required jobs in the contract.

Plus, if Allstate decides to skip town and build a corporate center or lease space elsewhere, Chandler will get all its money back.

According to the agreement, Allstate must create the jobs within five years.

The city will fork over $600 for each job with a base salary of at least $65,000 and $400 for each job that pays below $65,000.

Smith told the City Council that all created jobs would be in addition to the positions the company already has filled in Chandler. The city estimates the payroll taxes generated from the 2,500 positions would result in $102 million annually.

The agreement calls for Allstate to reimburse the city for all payments it received if the company decides to skip town to lease space or build a corporate campus.

Allstate picked Chandler over two other Valley cities and Boise, Idaho. But Councilman Sam Huang questioned whether incentives were really needed to lure in the company and used a recently approved Banner hospital project as an example.

“It was a contributing factor in them choosing Chandler,” Smith said. “Banner See

ALLSTATE on page 30

BUSINESS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

GROOVE

from page 28

sells many capos – small devices that clamp onto the neck of guitars and other stringed instruments to shorten the strings’ length in order to change the key.

The company sells straps as well as locks that keep straps from coming off guitars and other stringed instruments.

“I found the one capo that I prefer and that works the best,” LeComte said. “I did a lot of research and found the ones that I would use. The straps are a personal preference thing.

“Normally when I buy a new guitar, I’ll buy a strap as well. I like to have options when I’m playing different instruments.

You can buy strap locks anywhere, but no one’s really going to help you install them and give you the tips and tricks that a master luthier had.”

He said he will post demonstration videos a friend makes for products on the business website.

LeComte said most “mid or highrange players” have strap locks, which are “important if you don’t want to drop your instrument while you’re playing.”

A guitarist who plays a range of stringed instruments – including ukulele, banjo and mandolin – he knows a thing or two about taking the stage.

He started playing guitar when his father bought him an electric one and studied the instrument at McClintock High School for four years. He also took guitar lessons at Mesa Community College.

Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

Scott LeComte is a master luthier and owner of Groove Musical Instruments in Chandler. The company sells stringed instruments LeComte designs.

LeComte played in a rock band in high school and said he was “here back in the heyday when Mill Avenue was around.”

The band he was in, The Total Few, shared equipment with the Gin Blossoms and played at school dances and talent shows.

Later, LeComte played in a band called Switch 56, doing many gigs on Mill Avenue and in Scottsdale, for about eight years. After that, he and a member of another band formed Mockstar and recorded some songs with Scott Hessel,

the Gin Blossoms drummer.

Later, LeComte formed another band called KAB, which has been together about six years. He often tours on the West Coast and in Mexico with KAB and in Chandler at Ginger Monkey, Jolie’s Place and The Local. The band plays classic rock and its own songs.

A former IT director at Arizona State University’s Biodesign Institute, LeComte earned an associate’s degree in computer engineering from ITT Technical Institute.

29

He said he and Schimanski began D Squared Luthiery not with the goal of making money but as a way to help other musicians.

Demand for stringed instruments is high, LeComte said. Ukuleles have become popular recently because of some hit songs that featured the instrument.

“Violins are real popular when school starts,” LeComte said. “The cost of renting for a year is more than buying a starter violin.”

He said chain musical instrument stores often buy from manufacturers in China and the instruments are “not set up properly.”

“I always found it frustrating is you buy a new guitar and it doesn’t play like you want to play and hurts your fingers, doesn’t sound the way you want it to sound and you take it to a luthier to fix it,” LeComte said.

Customers say D Squared Luthiery is in tune with what musicians want. Many posted praise for the company on its Facebook page.

“Best place for repairs and service,” Randolph Black posted. “I’ve taken many guitars and amps for service and (it’s) always been top notch.”

Tom Wray posted several thumbs-up signs on the D Squared Luthiery Facebook page and offered kind words.

“Friendly and helpful,” Wray wrote.

“Always a pleasure to work with.”

To learn more about D Squared Luthiery, visit d2luthiery.com. For more information on Groove Musical Instruments, visit getthatgroove.com.

Endless Summer Fitness Classes Monday - Friday 5am, 12pm & 6:30pm options

FAMILY NIGHT WORKOUTS

60 for four weeks

$

Ages 4 and up beginning & every Tues & Thurs @ 6:30pm

Contact us 480.447.8754 Info@cfes.fit • www.cfes.fit 4100 S. Arizona Ave, Suite 4, Chandler

30

BUSINESS

ALLSTATE

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

from page 28

is local, and they needed a hospital here locally. Allstate could have gone anywhere they wanted to go in the country. We think it’s a prudent offer that we made.”

Councilman Jeremy McClymonds called the deal “awesome,” while Mayorelect Kevin Hartke said he was impressed with the company’s commitment to Chandler.

“It shows they’re putting skin in the game and saying we want to be here,” Hartke said. “We believe they’re fully committed to Chandler. One of the important things about that corporate campus is that could really be a commitment for 25 or 30 years.”

Special to the STSN

Chandler officials broke down the impact of the Allstate project during the City Council’s consideration of the deal.

Allstate is the fourth-largest property and casualty company in the U.S., behind only State Farm, Berkshire Hathaway and Liberty Mutual. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners reports Allstate has about 5-percent market share of premium income.

Allstate earned $2.4 billion on revenue of $30.3 billion over the first nine months of 2018.

Brad Smith, the senior vice president of business development with the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, said Chandler was a natural fit for the facility. “(Allstate) found the Metro Phoenix area, the East Valley in particular, and the City of Chandler as a great location for them,” Smith said. “It offers them many opportunities to hire the best and the brightest people they need to hire to succeed as a corporation.”

Huang was the only councilmember to vote against the project. He complained that he didn’t have enough time to investigate the deal, despite Tibshraeny reminding him that the council had been briefed on the project twice over the last 18 months.

“Keep your notes,” Tibshraeny told Huang.

Chandler firm picks shuttle challenge winners SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

East Valley Institute of Technology students could soon be getting a lift around campus, thanks to the world’s first co-created, self-driving, electric shuttle.

The main Mesa campus at Main Street and Dobson Road has been chosen as the winner of the Local Motors Olli Challenge, meaning it will receive a pair of eight-person, driverless Olli shuttles to try out for about three months.

The Mesa school and Sacramento State University in California were each picked for the first challenge

Special to STSN

The East Valley Institute of Technology will be joining the University of Buffalo, above, as the next college to test out the Olli driver-less shuttles. EVIT won Local Motors’ Phoenix-area challenge to receive use of the eight-person shuttles for three months.

trial. The global fleet challenge invited municipalities, campuses and designated districts to propose a short-term, local use for Olli.

A panel of judges evaluated the submissions and picked EVIT for the Phoenix-area deployment over several other entrants. The company hasn’t released who else applied for the opportunity.

EVIT, the first joint technical education district in Arizona, will share its data from the shuttles with Olli engineers to help See

OLLI on page 31

10 YEARS FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED LICENSED, BONDED INSURED ROC242432

480.888.0484

What we do…

Support Local Business

☛ Never a service call fee ☛ Up-front pricing

SPECIAL! $30 OFF* Get a call, text and emailed pic of tech when we’re on our way

3-Year Warranty

on most plumbing repairs!

☛ Tankless water heaters ☛ Tank water heaters

Crimshield Certified Employees Background Checked & Crime-Free

☛ Fixture Replacements ☛ Plumbing & drain repairs ☛ Water Treatment

We accept all major credit cards and PayPal Financing Available

• • • • • •

Vehicle registration Title transfer Duplicate registration / title Replacement plate or TAB Permit 3 day, 30 day and 90 day Level one inspection: bond title, title inspection, abandoned title inspection

• Mobile home • Handicap placard / plate • MVR: 3 year uncertified, 5 year certified • Driver license record: 3 year uncertified, 5 year certified • Fleet registration

1900 W. Germann, Suite 9, Chandler, AZ 85286 480-855-1638 Fax: 480-855-1639 WWW.MVD3P.COM

ET01

FOR YOUR ARTIFICIAL GRASS & ACCESSORIES 221 E. Willis Road, Bldg A, Suite 2 Chandler, AZ 85286

(Arizona Avenue & 202, South of Sam’s Club)

480.726.2411 www.ArtificialGrassSuperstore.com

ROC # 205797

BUSINESS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

31

Minimum wage increase’s overall impact unclear

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

What would you do with an extra $1,000 a year?

That’s the happy question that faces those full-time workers at the very bottom of the wage scale who will find more cash in their paychecks after the first of the year.

The move represents the third step of a four-year plan approved by voters in 2016 to eventually get the minimum wage up to $12 an hour by 2020. This latest change takes it from the current $10.50 an hour to $11.

But it’s not just those at the very bottom who are likely to see an effect.

The move to make the basic salary $11 should push up wages for those who already are above that figure.

Some people may still be paid less. That’s because the law also gives employers a $3 “tip credit’’ for wages paid to those workers who can get up to the $11 minimum when gratuities are factored in.

The latest increase comes years after business interests rallied against the measure, arguing that forcing employers to pay more, particularly to newly hired workers, would make their operations financially uncompetitive. There also were claims that many businesses dependent on minimum-wage workers would simply choose to hire fewer people.

University of Arizona economist George Hammond said that accurate wage data for the past few years is still being compiled, but that “what we’re seeing macroeconomically is that the state’s still growing rapidly.”

“Overall wage growth accelerated last year, as you might expect with a minimum wage increase,’’ Hammond said.

There’s little indication that there has been a slowdown in hiring by those companies most affected by having to shell out more.

In the past year, total private sector employment in Arizona has gone up 3.6 percent according to the state Office of

OLLI

from page 30

improve its performance and spark ideas for future models.

“Olli is already transforming the way we think about transportation and it is showing us … that autonomous vehicles can be safe, sustainable and practical,” said Local Motors CEO and co-founder Jay Rogers. “We look forward to the insights that will come from each deployment as the ever-changing industry of autonomous vehicles continues to evolve.”

HISTORY MINIMUM WAGE Year

State

Federal

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

$5.15 $6.75 $6.90 $7.25 $7.25 $7.35 $7.65 $7.80 $7.90 $8.05 $8.05 $10 $10.50 $11

$5.15 $5.85 $6.55 $7.25 $7.25 $7.25 $7.25 $7.25 $7.25 $7.25 $7.25 $7.25 $7.25 $7.25

Economic Opportunity. But employment among restaurants and bars, traditionally at the low-end of the wage scale, is up by 5.6 percent.

Hammond said there is some indication that inflation – the cost of buying things – has increased in the Phoenix metro area where it is measured, up from 1.6 percent in 2016 to 2.5 percent last year. But Hammond said it’s impossible to say at this point how much of that is due to higher wages.

Garrick Taylor, spokesman for the Arizona Chamber of Commerce, said it’s only logical that the higher costs are being passed along. And at some point, he said, the increases can’t be sustained.

“There’s only so much someone will pay for a sandwich or a cup of coffee,’’ he said.

The chamber was so opposed to the 2016 measure that it not only spent money to convince voters to kill it but then went to court in a bid to block its implementation. Both efforts failed.

Taylor said his organization’s opposition is not strictly financial.

“We believe that mandating wage policies via the ballot box is a poor way

to carry out public policy, especially in the area of wages,’’ he said.

He acknowledged that the increase – the minimum as of Jan. 1 will be 37 percent higher than it was in 2016 – has not caused financial ruin.

“This economy is quite healthy right now,’’ Taylor said. “But that doesn’t mean that there is not somebody who is looking to get into the labor market who has been priced out by higher mandated wages.’’

But Hammond pointed out that employment in that low-wage sector of leisure and hospitality continued to increase, faster than the private sector as a whole, even as the average hourly wage of all workers in that industry also has gone up.

While opposed to setting wages at the ballot, Taylor acknowledged that the chamber and other members of the business community had not been proactive or proposed to lawmakers their own minimum wage hike. So where was the chamber before the measure got on the ballot?

“Look, we were not engaged at that level of policy making,’’ he said. But

Taylor also said that advocates of higher minimum wages had not approached the business community with their own proposals either.

But he also conceded there was no reason for the supporters of higher wages to reach out.

“Minimum wage increases that have appeared on the ballot around the country have passed,’’ Taylor said. “The advocates understand the popularity of them.’’

The 2016 initiative was actually the second time that voters had decided that workers should be paid more than Arizona lawmakers want.

A 2006 ballot measure created the state’s first minimum wage, setting it at $6.75 an hour when Arizona employers needed only comply with the federal minimum of $5.15. That initiative also set in place a process for automatic increases linked to inflation.

That, however, got the state’s minimum up to just $8.05 an hour in 2016 when advocates got voters to approve on a 3-2 margin the four-step jump to $12 by 2020. That same measure also requires employers to provide at least three days off for sick or personal leave.

Under the terms of the initiative, increases after 2020 will again be linked to inflation.

Chandler-based Local Motors specializes in 3D-printed mobility solutions and once helped develop the world’s first all-3D-printed car.

It calls the shuttle it developed “designed to change the future of mobility.” Potential uses for the shuttle include transportation option for cities, companies, hospitals, campuses, stadiums, entertainment districts and any other location where people need to move from one place to another.

What EVIT chooses to do with the fleet still isn’t known. Because the challenge was “closed,” Local Motors isn’t revealing the plans publicly.

Wherever they end up, Local Motors engineers will soon begin mapping the locations where the shuttles will run.

Think of it like using a Roomba robotic vacuum mapping your living room when you turn it on for the first time.

After a couple weeks of mapping, officials are hoping to deploy the fleets of shuttles for the public to use in Mesa and Sacramento by the end of next month.

Local Motors has already announced the Greater Washington, D.C.-area as the location for its second challenge. The company announced the site along with awarding the challenge winners to EVIT

and Sacramento State.

The newest challenge, which is open to entries from the Greater Washington, D.C-area, runs through Feb. 6. Unique panels of judges are expected to evaluate additional fleet challenges that will roll out in the coming months.

“Local Motors’ Olli challenge is sure to ignite more innovation around the future of autonomous transportation,” said Shailen Bhatt, president and CEO of the Intelligent Transportation Society of America. “I am passionate about technology’s ability to save lives on our roadways, so I’m thrilled about this project.”

File Photo

Protestors have advocated for an increase in the minimum wage to $15 in various parts of the country for several years.

Got News?

Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@timespublications.com

32

BUSINESS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

State growth may be depressing workers’ wages

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

Arizona added new residents in the past year at a faster pace than all but three other states.

But that could be depressing wages here.

New figures from the Census Bureau show the state population as of July 1 – the point at which the government measures – at 7,171,646 – up 1.7 percent over the previous year. Only Nevada, Idaho and Utah did better.

Arizona also was No. 4 in population growth on a pure numeric basis with its 122,770 new residents. That’s no small feat given that Arizona is only the 14th largest state in the nation. States that added more residents – Texas, Florida and California – all are much larger.

But there’s a downside of sorts to all this.

The state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for November ticked up a tenth of a point, to 4.7 percent – a full percentage point higher than the figure for the country as a whole.

It’s not a question of jobs not being created. In fact, private sector employment is up by nearly 99,000 over the same period a year earlier.

But employers have been unable to create jobs faster than there are people looking for them.

And that, in turn, can have a ripple effect in wages: More people looking for work can mean employers don’t have to pay as much to attract talent.

The average hourly wage in Arizona is

currently $25.77 versus $27.28 for the rest of the country.

And Arizona wages are up just 0.7 percent in the past year, versus a 3.1 percent boost nationally.

There is no question but that Arizona’s population growth is being driven by people moving here versus natural growth, meaning births minus deaths. Almost 80 percent of the year-over-year increase is from migration, primarily from other states though with some international growth.

More residents means more people looking for work.

“If we are getting people willing to move into the area from outside that are willing to take a lower wage because of what they perceive to be advantages such as climate, that’s been a persistent issue here,’’ said Tom Rex, associate director

www.HelpUSellAZ.com

at the Center for Competitiveness and Prosperity Research at Arizona State University.

But Rex said the questions of average pay and the statewide unemployment rate are more complex. And some of that, he said, relates to the difference between the major urban areas and the rest of the state.

“The job availability really isn’t that good in many of the rural areas,’’ he said.

That, said Rex, is complicated by the fact that the education level of many rural residents is less than the rest of the state.

“A lot of the people that live up there are not very educated,’’ he said. “They’re really not qualified to fill a lot of the jobs.’’

Rex said to the extent that jobs are created, the residents there are “outcompeted’’ by people moving there from Phoenix, Tucson – or out of state – who are

attracted by the rural lifestyle and willing to accept the wages offered.

“So you do have a persistent employment problem in those parts,’’ he said.

Thursday’s new state employment report does have some bright signs.

The number of people working in the manufacture of computers and electronic parts is up 11.2 percent since the same time a year ago. Still, that’s only a tiny sector of the Arizona economy: just 32,200 employees out of more than 2.4 million in the private sector.

By contrast, there are more than 234,000 people employed at restaurants and bars, one of the lower-paying sectors of the economy. That exceeds not just everyone working in the state’s financial sector but also construction and the entire manufacturing industry.

Wages aside, there are other signs of job health.

The number of people collecting unemployment benefits is now below 20,000, the first time that has happened since the end of the recession. It’s also 11.7 percent less than a year ago.

Retail trade employment also was up sharply in November. That’s not a big surprise given the seasonal hiring that takes place, with particularly strong monthover-month gains in clothing and department stores.

But the spirit of the season – and the buying that goes along with it – wasn’t enough to keep total employment in clothing stores from dropping by 3.4 percent in the past year amid increased competition from online retailers.

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019 November 5 - 18, 2016

“An award winning publication”

SanTan Sun News

33

Vision Kids classes link artists, creative kids

SANTAN FAMILY FUN

January 2019

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Managing Editor

Children and teens can get a new perspective on art when they create their own masterpieces under the guidance of professional artists in a free Chandler program.

The Vision Gallery provides free art classes for those ages 6 to 16 January through May, then August through December in its Vision Kids program.

Youths explore a variety of mediums in the classes at Vision Gallery, 10 E. Chicago St. “We have done everything from movie making to Native American drum making and we used actual deer skins,” said Yvonne Villareal-Torres, visual arts assistant for Vision Gallery.

“We do ceramics, water colors. Our only real rule is a parent or guardian has to stay with them in class,” she added. “The parents can learn the techniques and be able to go home and recreate the project.

A lot of times it’s the grandparent that brings them. It fosters that relationship. It shows a vested interest in the arts.”

The classes meet on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon and then 1 to 3 p.m.

The same class repeats in order to accommodate kids’ busy schedules.

The next Vision Kids class will be the “Create a 3-Dimensional Perspective with Marco Albarran” at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Jan. 12. In that workshop, students will

Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

Reggie Casillas, a professional artist, helps David Fletcher get paint for his painting during the Cubist Portrait Painting with Reggie Casillas class, part of the Vision Kids program.

for an Arizona-themed Dia de los Muertos Scratchers ticket to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

Another artist teaching Vision Kids classes is Christy Puetz, who creates pieces using beads including animals. Puetz is also a Scottsdale teacher and the creative program director for Beads of Courage, an arts program for children who have serious illnesses.

Artist Sylvia Fugmann Brongo often

Fifi Fang, 9, starts to paint during the Cubist Portrait Painting with Reggie Casillas class in December at Vision Gallery.

What’s inside Page 2,3 Santan Family Fun Calendar

learn the basics of space selection and design processes used in design and architecture.

Children and teens can also participate in the “Fast Image Transfer on Clear Plexiglass with Anthony Banayat” class at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Jan. 26. In that course, students will learn how to apply image transfers to surfaces, as well as basic composition techniques to make artwork appropriate for framing.

A call for artists to teach the classes is made at the beginning of the year.

“We’re always looking for something new that the kids haven’t experienced yet,” Villareal-Torres said. “Some instructors have taught with us for years, they’re highly requested.”

One of frequent Vision Kids artistteacher is Emily Costello, whom the Arizona Lottery chose to be its first artist in residence for the current fiscal year.

The self-taught painter, printer and mixed media artist won an Arizona Lottery contest last year to find artwork

leads Vision Kids classes. A clay artist since 1983, Fugmann Brongo creates clay vases, bowls and wall pieces using stoneware clay and mostly slab form, as well as coil pieces by hand, her website said.

Students also often have a chance to learn from artist Sandra Luehrsen, who offers clay workshops and teaches 3D design at Mesa Community College, as well as shows her sculpture and digital artwork locally, nationally and internationally, according to her website.

At a class last month, students took the Cubist Portrait Painting with Reggie Casillas class, where they created portraits in the styles of artists Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. Villareal-Torres said Casillas is “a wonderful portrait artist” and “very talented.”

“Every week is different,” she said. “Every class is different. Some will repeat in future years because kids are like, ‘can we please?’

If we can, we bring it back. I try to keep it different so it’s not monotonous.”

Ricardo and Myra Felix of Chandler enroll their children – Lia, 17, and Aiden, 14 – in the Vision Kids program. Lia, a senior at Perry High School, and Aiden, a freshman at Perry, have taken many art classes for several years. Lia started taking Vision Kids classes when she was about 8.

“It’s just a wonderful program because it provides her an opportunity to work with our local artists in different mediums,” Myra said. “We really love that. Yvonne chooses the best people.

She chooses a lovely selection of artists and gives the kids an opportunity to participate in so many different things.”

As a teacher who instructs special education students at Chandler Traditional Academy – Humphrey Campus, Myra said art is “extremely important.”

“Not everyone’s going to be a doctor,” she said.

Myra said Lia especially loved a Vision Kids class where she and other students made dolls.

Ricardo said the classes are “amazing” and it is great professional artists in the community teach them.

“You get the sense that they really enjoy it; the artists do, and the kids do, too,” he said. “Yvonne is incredible. The staff is always great. I think it’s a blessing to our community. It’s something that hopefully we can continue to have.”

The Vision Kids program began in 1997 and is supported financially by individuals, grants and corporations. Anyone in the Valley can take the classes for free.

Students come from all over the Valley.

The children and teens get all the materials they need in class to create their artwork and take it home. Usually about 36 youths take the classes each Saturday and the Vision Kids program serves about 2,000 kids a year.

Vision Kids is a program of the Chandler Cultural Foundation. The Vision Gallery is owned by the City of Chandler and is managed by the Chandler Cultural Foundation.

People can register their children for up to three Vision Kids classes per season.

They can stop by from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. today at Vision Gallery, 10 E. Chicago St., to register their kids in classes. Or they can register anytime during regular office hours at Vision Gallery or by calling 480782-2697.

Information: visiongallery.org/visionkids/

34

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY November 5 - 18, 2016 5–18, 2019

January 2019

Mon

7

14 • Toddlertime

21

28 • Toddlertime

Send family events and activities to

STFF@SanTanSun.com

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

1

2

3

4

5

6

8 • Zoolights • Toddlertime

Always call to verify information as some events change or cancel after the calendar is printed.

• • • • • • •

Zoolights Suns Game Family Storytime Toddlertime Lapsit Babytime Lego Club STEAM Club

9

• Zoolights • Lapsit Babytime

10

• • • •

15

16

17

22

23

24

• • • • •

• • • • • • •

Family Storytime Toddlertime Lapsit Babytime Lego Club Family Storytime

Family Storytime Toddlertime Lapsit Babytime Lego Club Family Storytime STEAM Club Suns Game

29 • • • • •

Family Storytime Toddlertime Lapsit Babytime Lego Club STEAM Club

• Lapsit Babytime

• Lapsit Babytime

30 • Lapsit Babytime

Zoolights Toddlertime Ready, Set, Preschool!

Toddlertime

• Toddlertime • Ready, Set, Preschool!

• • • •

Toddlertime Ready, Set, Preschool!

Toddlertime Suns Game

11

• • • • • • •

• Zoolights • ImprovMANIA

18

• ImprovMANIA • Rhythm and Rhyme

25 • ImprovMANIA

Arizona Railway Museum Zoolights Monthly Family Bird Walks ImprovMANIA Chandler Farmers Market Zoppé Family Circus Craft Park Vintage Market

12

• Arizona Railway Museum • ImprovMANIA • Chandler Farmers Market

19 • • • •

Arizona Railway Museum ImprovMANIA Chandler Farmers Market Preschool Science: On the Go

26

• • • • •

Arizona Railway Museum Zoolights Zoppé Family Circus Craft Park Vintage Market Phoenix Suns vs. Charlotte Hornets

13 • Arizona Railway Museum • Zoolights

20

• Arizona Railway Museum

27

• Arizona Railway Museum • ImprovMANIA • Chandler Farmers Market

• Arizona Railway Museum

31 • Toddlertime • Ready, Set, Preschool!

See

CALENDAR page 35

Science to come to life at downtown festival

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Managing Editor

Children, teens and adults can touch and explore interactive exhibits at the familyfriendly Chandler Science Spectacular next month downtown.

The annual event is free and will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 9 near the Chandler Community Center, along East Commonwealth Avenue and Arizona Place.

Anyone can check out scientific discoveries engineered in the community as the city aims to show families how science is important in everyday life.

The city event marks Chandler’s participation in the Arizona SciTech Festival, which celebrates science, technology engineering and math (STEM) – or STEAM when arts is included – every year in February and March around the state.

More than 1,000 expos, workshops, talks, exhibitions and tours are held in neighborhoods in Arizona to educate and excite people of all ages on how STEM will drive the state for the next 100 years.

The Arizona Commerce Authority, Arizona Science Center, the Arizona Technology Council Foundation, Arizona Board of Regents, the University of Arizona and Arizona State University

City of Chandler

The Chandler Fire Department provides CPR demonstrations and participants can try their hand.

spearhead the festival. More than 800 organizations in academia, arts, civic, community, industry and K-12 grades produce it.

Northrop Grumman and Intel are sponsors and plan to set up interactive displays. In previous years, Northrop Grumman has launched rockets at the festival. Waymo has brought a self-driving vehicle as well as pictures for children to color. Intel has set up booths with kits that light up computers and illustrate the “basics of computer science,” according

to city spokeswoman Stephanie Romero.

The festival will have “all these really neat activities that explain science, things that you can touch and feel and jump on,” Romero said.

Area K-12 schools, as well as colleges and universities also plan to participate in the event. In past years, they have brought beakers with chemicals, a wind tunnel and bees, along with an organic bee repellant.

Nearly 80 companies, including PayPal, will be participating in the event this

year, said Odette Moore, city economic development research assistant.

“Every booth is interactive so that people can engage so it seems to go well,” Moore said. “Science really is the future. You never know. There could be a future programmer, a future scientist. We want them to start a love for it early on in life.”

The library, fire department, police forensics team, Environmental Education Center and wastewater treatment department will also set up displays – including fire trucks and a mock crime scene.

The library staffers will discuss various resources, such as their 3-D printer. The Environmental Education Center offers an activity on how to identify mammals, birds and reptiles.

Besides engaging in the displays, children and teens can also take part in friendly competition at the festival.

All K-12 schools and organizations within Chandler’s boundaries can participate in the second annual Chandler Science Spectacular Competition. Judges will pick six winning teams, each getting a $500 prize for the most creative, educational and passionate projects.

See

SCIENCE on page 36

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019 November 5 - 18, 2016

CALENDAR

from page 34

5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27 Arizona Railway Museum, noon to 4 p.m. Visit Chandler’s railway museum at Tumbleweed Park. The Arizona Railway Museum was founded in 1983 as a nonprofit organization and is dedicated to the railways of Arizona and the Southwest. All types of railroad memorabilia and cars are represented in the museum.

Arizona Railway Museum, 330 E. Ryan Road, Chandler, Display yard and building free; display cars $5 per person or $15 per family/group. For information, call Tim at 480-833-4353 or Bart Barton at 480-831-6520, azrymuseum.org.

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 Zoolights, 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. See millions of lights illuminate the Phoenix Zoo this holiday season. This year, Stingray Bay and the 4-D Theater is included with admission. Guests can also see live reindeer, the zoo’s latest holiday edition.

Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, $9.95 to $21.95, 602-286-3800, phoenixzoo.org.

5 Monthly Family Bird Walks, 8 a.m.

Desert Rivers Audubon leads free guided birdwatching tours through Veterans Oasis Park the first Saturday of every month from November to April. Every 15 minutes, 45-minute walks will begin. Sunscreen, closed-toe shoes and plenty of water are recommended.

Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Road, Chandler, free, 480-7822889, chandleraz.gov/eec.

5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26 ImprovMANIA, 7 p.m. Join ImprovMANIA on Fridays and Saturdays for family-friendly comedy shows. ImprovMANIA’s improv performances are fast paced, like the show “Whose Line is it Anyway?” Prepare for a night of laughter in downtown Chandler.

ImprovMANIA, 250 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, $10, 480-699-4598, improvmania.net.

5, 12, 19, 26 Chandler Farmers Market, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The market offers fresh local produce, prepared goods, desserts and some crafts on select days. All items are grown in Arizona or

are homemade from local vendors. 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, Free, Downtownchandler.org/ farmersmarket.

5, 6 Zoppé Family Circus, times vary. Come visit a traditional Italian circus this holiday season and see acrobats and clowns perform under the big tent. Audience members can also see dogs and horses perform tricks in the ring.

This European circus was founded more than 160 years ago and is still run by the original Zoppé family.

Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler, $15 to $40, 480-782-2680, chandlercenter.org.

Craft Park Vintage Market, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Stop by the newest Downtown Chandler market to purchase unique crafts made by local makers and Etsy artists. Families can also enjoy live music and food trucks at the market.

Downtown Chandler, 281 S. Washington St., Chandler, free, downtownchandler.org.

6 Phoenix Suns vs. Charlotte Hornets 6:30 p.m. Sure there’s a basketball game, but it’s kids night and Gorilla’s birthday celebration!

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, tickets start at $18, 602-379-2000.

7, 14, 28 Toddlertime, 9:15 a.m. and 9:45 a.m.

Toddlertime features singing and puppets to engage the children. The storytime is approximately 30 minutes.

Basha Library, 5990 S. Val Vista Drive, Chandler, free, 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

chandlerlibrary.org.

8, 15, 22, 29 Toddlertime, 10:15 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. The 30-minute program features singing and puppets to engage children.

Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Road, Chandler, free, 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

8, 15, 22, 29 Lapsit Babytime, 11:30 a.m. to 12:10 p.m.

Read books, listen to music and interact with fun puppets at playtime. All activities are designed for newborns to 18-month-old children. One parent for each child is highly recommended.

Basha Library, 5990 S. Val Vista Drive, Chandler, free, 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

8, 15, 22, 29 Lego Club, 4 p.m. Meet new friends and have fun building with Lego, which are supplied. Lego Club is a Vertex program, where Chandler Public Library intersects with STEAM and makerspace.

Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Road, Chandler, free, 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

Family Storytime, 6:30 p.m. Read books, sing songs and play with puppets at Family Storytime. This week, families will build forts, select books and read. Fort-building material will be provided.

Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Road, Chandler, free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

8 Suns Game, 7 p.m. Watch the Phoenix Suns take on the Sacramento Kings at Talking Stick Resort Arena.

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. $8 to $316. 602-379-7867, nba.com/suns.

STEAM Club, 4 to 5 p.m. Come to the Chandler Library STEAM Club and have fun every Tuesday with science, technology, engineering, art and math. Win prizes just for showing up. Ages 6-11. STEAM Club is a Vertex program, where Chandler Public Library intersects with STEAM and makerspace.

Downtown Library, 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler, free, 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

8, 15, 22, 29 Family Storytime, 6:30 p.m. Read books, sing songs and play with puppets at Family Storytime. This week, families will build forts, select books and read. Fort-building material will be provided.

Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Road, Chandler, free. 480-782-2800,

9, 16, 23, 30 Lapsit Babytime, 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Read books, listen to music and interact with fun puppets at play time. All activities are designed for newborns to 18-month-old children. One parent for each child is highly recommended.

Downtown Library Copper Room North, 22 S.

35

Delaware St., Chandler, free, 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

10, 17, 24, 31 Toddlertime, 9:15 a.m. and 9:45 a.m.

Toddlertime features singing and puppets to engage the children. The storytime is approximately 30 minutes.

Basha Library, 5990 S. Val Vista Drive, Chandler, free, 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

10, 17, 24, 31 Ready, Set, Preschool! 10:15 to 11 a.m. Children ages 3 to 5 prepare for kindergarten through songs and activities. This is a 45-minute program.

Basha Library, 5990 S. Val Vista Drive, Chandler, free, 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

10, 17, 24, 31 Toddlertime, 10:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Songs and puppets engage toddlers during this 30-minute event.

Downtown Library, 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler, free, 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

18 Rhythm and Rhyme, 11 to 11:30 a.m. Young children are welcome to join in a musical celebration at the library. During the event, they can sing, dance and play instruments.

Hamilton Library, 3700 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, free, 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

19 Preschool Science: On the Go, 10:15 a.m. Children interested in science will have a blast learning about different types of transportation at this hands-on event. Participants will learn about the physics of airplanes, cars and boats Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington St., Phoenix, $15 to $20, 602-716-2000, azscience.org.

22 Suns Game, 7 p.m. Watch the Phoenix Suns take on the Minnesota Timberwolves at Talking Stick Resort Arena.

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. $8 to $316. 602-379-7867, nba.com/suns.

24 Suns Game, 7 p.m. Watch the Phoenix Suns take on the Portland Trailblazers at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. $8 to $316. 602-3797867, nba.com/suns.

East Valley grad keeps ‘Hello, Dolly!’ alive at Gammage

BY LAURA LATZKO Contributor

The musical Hello, Dolly! continues to endear audiences more than 60 years after its original debut because of its farcical storyline, memorable music and relatable yet offbeat characters.

Led by Betty Buckley and aided by East Mesa native Connor Wince, the national tour of Hello, Dolly! is keeping the musical alive. It comes to ASU Gammage Jan. 8-13.

Hello, Dolly! follows widowed socialite Dolly Gallagher Levi (Buckley), who is enlisted to play matchmaker for cantankerous “half-a-millionaire” Horace Vandergelder but ultimately has a more devious plot in mind to land herself a husband.

She is also enlisted to help artist Ambrose Kemper, who is in love with Horace’s niece, Ermengarde, and is joined in her hijinks by hotel clerks Cornelius Hackl and Barnaby Tucker.

Created by Jerry Herman and Michael Stewart, Hello, Dolly! debuted on Broadway in 1964 and was revived in 2017, subsequently winning four Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical.

The national tour also stars Lewis Stadlen, as Horace Vandergelder; Ga-

Photo by Julieta Cervantes

In Hello, Dolly!, ensemble members play a variety of roles including townspeople and waiters.

rett Hawe, as Ambrose Kemper; Morgan Kirner, as Ermengarde; Nic Rouleau, as Cornelius Hackl and Jess LeProtto, as Barnaby Tucker.

An ensemble member, Wince graduated from Red Mountain High School in Northeast Mesa and earned a journalism degree from ASU. While growing up in Ar-

izona, the actor performed with the East Valley Children’s Theatre, Prather Entertainment Group and Hale Centre Theatre.

See

GAMMAGE on page 36

36

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY November 5 - 18, 2016 5–18, 2019

GAMMAGE

from page 35

Hello, Dolly! is the actor’s second national tour. He has also been in the ensemble cast for the national tour of The Little Mermaid. When he steps on the Gammage stage, it’ll be his Arizona stop with a national tour. He expects to see a lot of familiar faces.

“My mom has invited just about everyone I know in Arizona. It’s really exciting to be able to go home and perform my show there,” Wince said.

Wince added the show’s positive message speaks to him.

“The show is all about the joy in the world.”

He says the production doesn’t rely on technical elements or special effects.

Instead, it focuses on the quirky storyline and characters, as well as big production numbers.

“It’s definitely very traditional Broadway style, with a lot of ballet in the show,” Wince said. “It’s really based in what musical theater was, and I think that’s something we’re all proud of.”

He said the show’s humor still stands up.

“I think it’s probably much more come-

SCIENCE

from page 34

Two winners from categories for nonprofits, K-8 and 9-12 grades will be picked. The winners will be announced

dic than people would expect from it,” Wince said. “People are usually hysterically laughing by the end of it.”

Hello, Dolly! has challenged the actor because it is such a dance-heavy show, especially for ensemble members.

“There were dance moves I had to really practice during rehearsal to get them right,” he said. “I think that’s one of the prideful things about the show is we really worked hard to get it where it is.”

In the production, the ensemble members play a variety of characters, including townspeople and waiters. Wince says when playing each character, he tries to have a specific focus.

“When I’m playing a waiter, it’s really just about pride,” Wince explained. “We’re very astute and put together as opposed to when I’m a polka competition dancer.

I’m usually a little bit more wacky.”

The show leans toward ballet, but the dancers showcase their polka skills during the competition scene. In one of Wince’s favorite scenes, Dolly shows Cornelius and Barnaby how to dance.

“It turns into a huge dance number with all of the ensemble. It really is just a moment that is all about the joy of dancing,” Wince added.

Wince became involved in theater and

and recognized at the City Council meeting after the festival. Young people can create any type of STEM project they like. The judges include employees from the city, Northrop Grumman and Intel.

“We have always built a brand

“I think that helped me in knowing my body, controlling it. In 90 percent of my shows I’ve done as an adult, I’ve tumbled,” Wince said.

Growing up, he was the only performer in his family and would often put on shows for his family.

“I have quite a few embarrassing home videos of me putting on some dance performances,” Wince said.

On a more serious note, Wince performed in the Hale Centre Theatre’s Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, which led him on his path as a performer.

“That was the first time that I realized my strengths as a dancer and began to realize how much I really enjoyed doing that. I’ve always loved being in the ensemble. I think it’s such an impactful and powerful job,” Wince says.

IF YOU GO

Special to GSN

Where: ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe When: Various times Jan. 8-13 Tickets start at $35 Information: 480-965-3434, asugammage.com

East Valley native Connor Wince is appearing on stage at ASU Gammage in “Hello Dolly!”

started taking vocal lessons at a young age but didn’t start dance classes until age 17.

Through middle school, he did gymnastics, training that has served him well as an actor. of Chandler as the innovation and technology hub of the Southwest,” Romero said. “We’re the home of Intel, our largest employer, Waymo. Science is really ingrained into our community and so we really want to provide a way

for kids to continue on this path of STEM and science. We love to provide these educational opportunities for our Chandler families.”

Information: chandleraz.gov/explore/ special-events/chandler-scitech-festival

750 OFF $ Spring 750 PLUS OFF0 DOWN! PL $ 750 PLUS OFF0 DOWN! 750 OFF OFF $750 OFF PLUS 0 DOWN! $

PLUS $0 DOWN! $ FREE CONSULTATION! PLUS 0 DOWN! into Savings

Orthodontics for Children & Adults $

Jack G. Wright DDS CAGS Specialist in Orthodontics

FREE CONSULTATION!

Most Insurance Accepted Financing Available

Orthodontics FREE for Children & Adults CONSULTATION!

$

Jack G. Wright DDS CAGS Specialist in Orthodontics

Most Insurance Accepted Financing Available

rthodontics FREE for Children & Adults CONSULTATION!

Wright DDS CAGS ist in Orthodontics

Most Insurance Accepted Financing Available

FRE

$

Orthodontics for Children & Ad

FREE CONSULTATION! Jack G. Wright DDS CAGS Specialist in Orthodontics

Most Insuranc Financing A

wrightortho.com r Children &wrightortho.com Adults Most Insurance Call today for aAccepted FREE Orthodontics for Children & Adults Financing Available !

OPEN NOWConsultation

wrightortho.comMost Insurance Accepted

Jack G. Wright DDS CAGS SAN TAN VALLEY / EASTin Orthodontics MESA SAN TAN VALLEY / QUEEN CREEK Specialist EAST MESA

QUEEN CREEK 36359 N. Gantzel Rd, #101

MESA

Financing Available MESA CHANDLER

CHANDLER

SuiteW.1Chandler Blvd., Suite 1 1118 N. Val1118 VistaN.Rd. Val Vista Rd. 453 W. 5th St.453 W. 5th4055 St. W. Chandler Blvd., 4055 ! ofSW NOW of theRd, Hospital Corner Vista Club & University Country Club & University Just Mall west of Chandler Fashion Mall 36359JustN.South Gantzel #101 OPEN Just west of Chandler Fashion SW Corner Brown & of ValBrown Vista & ValCountry

wrightortho.com

Just480-284-8824 South of the Hospital

480-753-6300 SAN TAN VALLEY /480-969-1514 CHANDLER EAST 480-835-0567 MESA 480-835-0567 MESA 480-753-6300 480-969-1514 wrightortho.com

480-284-8824 QUEEN CREEK

One coupon per person after usual and customary fees. New patients only. Must present coupon at initial consultation. Expires 1/31/19.

1118 N. Val Vista Rd.

453 W. 5th St. NOW OPEN!

4055 W. Chandler Blvd., Suite 1

36359 N. Gantzel Rd, #101 SW Corner of Brown & Val Vista Country Club & University Just west of Chandler Fashion Mall

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019 November 5 - 18, 2016

Mary Lynn’s

CER GIFT T AVA IFICA ILA TES BLE !

HOLIDAY SPECIAL: only $189

1 Winter Rescue Facial • 1 Massage • 1 Hand Scrub All you pay for is microdermabrasion machine & foot scrub.

OVER $400 Includes complimentary wine or beer.

VALUE!

EXPIRES 1/31/19. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

MASSAGE

GREAT HOLIDAY GIFT PACKAGES AVAILABLE

We Also Accept Also It’s A Medical Write Off

• Swedish • Deep Tissue • Myotherapy (Sport Massage) • Cellulite Reduction • Advanced Lymphatic Drainage • Reflexology • Auricular Therapy • Reiki • Thai • Tui Na • Pregnancy Massage • Neuromuscular (Injury Cases) • Hot Stone & More!

SPA THERAPY

SKIN CARE SERVICES

• Sea Salt Scrubs • Mud Wraps • Seaweed Wraps • Ear Candling • Teeth whitening

• Microdermabrasion • Non-Surgical Face Lift • Wrinkle Reduction • Adult & Teen Facials • All Peels Performed • Dermaplanning • Spray Tanning • Photo Rejuvenation LED Light Therapy • Waxing

WEIGHT LOSS SERVICES • WEIGHT LOSS THAT WORKS! FREE Consultation • HCG & Detox drops • Mineral Wraps: Lose 20"-40+" after ONE wrap!

• Liposuction Cavitation • Cellulite Reduction • Weight Loss Bed

480.857.8084

7297 N. Scottsdale Rd. Unit #1004 Paradise Valley, AZ 85253 • 480-859-7777 139 E. Williamsfield Rd. Unit #110 Gilbert, AZ 85295 • 480-857-8084

www.MaryLynnsSpa.com

37

WINTER HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE $ 1 Hour 79 Enjoy a rejuvenating HOT STONE $ 90 Mins 109 Massage! Receive a Holiday Gift. $ EXPIRES 1/31/19. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

2 Hours 125

GREAT ESCAPE FOR YOUR LOVED ONES or YOURSELF! Escape at Mary Lynn’s Massage & Day Spa Treat yourself or a loved one to a wonderful, relaxing, royal spa experience. Enjoy a seaweed or mud wrap, 2 hour aromatherapy massage, a fabulous rejuvenating facial, foot & hand scrub. Special includes strawberries with whipped cream & chocolate drizzle. Complimentary wine or beer.

only $389

EXPIRES 1/31/19. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Peppermint, Chocolate or Lavender Body Scrubs

25 OFF

$

EXPIRES 1/31/19. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Purchase a Microdermabrasion or Dermaplanning, Get a FREE

Facial EXPIRES 1/31/19. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

38

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY November 5 - 18, 2016 5–18, 2019

39

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019 November 5 - 18, 2016

the-cays_santan-sun_half-page-ad_phase-2-closeout_112718.indd 1

11/28/18 2:51 PM

We Speak Your Cars Language Shock and Strut Special!

January Special

Service & Repair

Free check engi ne light code scan Diagnosis extra

NOW SERVICING DOMESTIC-EUROPEAN AND DIESEL VEHICLES

Classes ages 6 months and up:

In House Towing • Free Shuttle Service Complete Engine Service & Replacement

• Gymnastics • Tumbling • Trampoline • Acrobatic Gymnastics • Ballet, Hip Hop and Tap CONGRATS • Martial Arts BRANDON BRIONES! • Swimming Youth Olympics

480-722-1700 OPEN: Monday-Friday 7:30-5:30

Ocotillo Foot & Ankle Centers

www.ocotillofootankle.com Same Day Appointments Most Insurances Accepted

W. Chandler Heights Rd.

480-820-3774

50 S. Hearthstone Way, Chandler 85226 — 1 Block W of Chandler Fashion Center

Frank Maben, DPM • Mary Peters, DPM • V. Ghandhari, DPM

TWO LOCATIONS! CHANDLER

270 W Chandler Heights Rd Chandler, AZ 85248 (480) 895-0276

AHWATUKEE

13838 S. 46th Pl. #105 Phoenix, AZ 85044 (480) 940-5172

S. 46th Place

aspirekidsports.com

(480) 895-0276

S. Arizona Avenue

Winter Break Camp Registration Now Available!

Please enter promo code SANTANSUN at time of registration. Expires 3-31-19.

CHANDLER (Between Dobson Rd & Alma School Rd)

Podiatric Surgeons of the East Valley

Vault Gold Medal

$30 value. New enrollment only. Not valid with any other offer.

1270 W. Chandler Blvd.

gual

Multilin

E. Ray Road

Both locations open Monday - Friday, extended appointment hours available. In-office X-rays, casting, Ultrasound and more.

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY November 5 - 18, 2016 5–18, 2019

HUNTERS

•

JUMPERS

•

EQUITATION

Beginner through advanced lessons for all ages.

480-812-8924

www.crossroadsfarm.com

Lindsay Rd.

Home of the ASU Equestrian Team, and the Crossroads East Valley High School IEA Team -you don’t need your own horse to participate!

Gilbert Rd.

40

460 E. Ray Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85296

Ray Rd.

Retirement Living Worth the Wait.

Visit Our Information Center. Now Open!

Scheduled to open later in 2019 at the corner of Riggs Road and Gilbert Road, Clarendale of Chandler will offer a continuum of care under a simple monthly rental program. Discover apartments and villas for independent living, as well as residences for assisted living and memory care, in a beautiful community where residents stay connected to the people and places they love most.

Stop By Today for All the Details.

5980 S. Cooper Road, Suite 3, in Chandler.

• • • •

Meet the Clarendale team.

Hear about our Navigation Program.

Learn about our Founder’s Club.

Find a floor plan that is perfect for you!

CALL (480) 630-1515 O LEARN MORE. web

ClarendaleOfChandler.com | 5900 S Gilbert Rd | Chandler, AZ 85249 | 11/18

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Sports & Recreation

41

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

East Valley athletes pedaling into interscholastic cycling

BY ZACH ALVIRA Sports Editor

It is a scenic mountain-bike ride along desert trails, but it is not necessarily leisurely.

A unique sport, interscholastic bicycling, including high school athletes from schools across the East Valley, is growing rapidly across Arizona.

Some teams, such as East Valley Composite, which includes Red Mountain High, are composed of riders from multiple schools. Other schools have their own teams. Desert Vista, Mountain Pointe, Arizona College Prep, Campo Verde and Perry are among those fielding teams.

Desert Vista and Mountain Pointe haven’t yet built a rivalry like the Ahwatukee Bowl between their football teams. You don’t see a lot of taunting or trash talking in prep cycling.

Yet it is competitive.

The Arizona Interscholastic Cycling League was founded in 2013 as an affiliate of the National Interscholastic Cycling League, which has 25 leagues across the nation. The Arizona league is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth-development organization to promote interscholastic mountain bike racing, provide training and education to new teams and coaches and offer a comprehensive infrastructure to grow youth cycling in a professional, safe and engaging manner.

Five years later, Arizona has 67 teams representing 157 schools with nearly 1,000 racers ranging from sixth- to 12th-graders.

“We have five to eight schools represented,” East Valley Composite coach

Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

A unique sport, interscholastic bicycling, with athletes like Trusten Torgerson of East Valley Composite hitting the trails, is growing rapidly across Arizona. Arizona has 67 teams representing 157 schools with nearly 1,000 racers, including several in the East Valley.

Curtis Barrett said. “Our first year, we had six kids, second year we had 12, third we had 20 and now, the fourth year, we have about 35 kids.”

Races consist of 15 to 25 miles.

Barrett preaches to the team that it isn’t all about winning.

“We emphasize that winning is important but it isn’t our primary focus,” Barrett said. “We want to make it about being a lifelong hobby and lifestyle.”

Wanting his riders to continue the sport is more important to Barrett. Consequently, his team embraces new riders, especially those who never have ridden a mountain bike.

“We are thrilled when we get someone who just bought a mountain bike but

maybe has never ridden before,” Barrett said. “We love it because we know they will love it.”

East Valley Composite, which practices at Usery Mountain Regional Park, competes in races at parks all over the state. Each rider is responsible for paying $300, which goes toward race fees. The team asks for sponsors to help with food and other necessities during the two-day events.

Barrett said there are about a dozen sponsors. Their contributions also help the team ride as an independent in the Mountain Bike Association of Arizona in the spring.

“We have a really nice-running system after a few years of working out the kinks,” Barrett said. “That makes it all

worth it for me, even though it is a lot of work. I think this is something that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.”

Caleb Robinson, a senior at Imagine Prep in Apache Junction, found East Valley Composite after seeing information on Facebook. He’s been on the team for three years. Being among the few seniors, Robinson is a leader for younger riders.

“It’s been amazing and really fun,” Robinson said. “I’ve learned a lot through all these years of riding and anything I can do to help them is great. Everybody has a different skill level, but you all have the same thing in common and that is biking.

Everyone loves to ride.”

Macie Waldron, a freshman at Red Mountain, began riding with the team two years ago after she heard about it at a bike shop. She gave up gymnastics to bike full time.

“I would walk the path first and then ride it slow. Now, I’m pretty comfortable doing just about any ride,” Waldron said.

Racing in JV1 this past season against 11th-graders two years older, Waldron placed second.

Austin Phillips, a sophomore at Red Mountain, won the JV2 division. He had experience in motocross and BMX but found a love for mountain bikes after his neighbor convinced him to give it a try. Two years later, he is among the best riders in the state. His motocross background helped, but he said that mountain biking was a challenge.

“The technical aspect is still the same, but the amount of effort you put in is greatly increased,” Phillips said.

More information: www.arizonamtb. org or www.evcbiketeam.com.

Aches, pains? Area fitness experts show clients how to work through it

BY ERIC NEWMAN Staff Writer

You’re a weekend warrior, or at least you think you are.

You’ve been busy. It takes time and energy to duck all those invitations to holiday gatherings in order to watch football or marathon doses of sappy holiday movies on TV. Your recliner now is form-fitting after the workout you’ve given it.

Now, you believe, with the new year upon us, it’s time to get back to giving yourself a good workout.

Good idea, but take it easy and be smart about it, experts recommend.

Muscles can be your best friend or your worst enemy if you don’t properly stretch them and warm them up. Make sure the rest of your vital functions also are up for resuming or initiating fitness endeavors as you try to make good on resolutions for the new year.

After a workout or two, if you’re stiff and sore, be wise before trying to work through pain.

Whether caused by injury, arthritis or a variety of issues, working out can cause or exacerbate pain.

Many Ahwatukee-area experts are helping clients fight through the discom-

Special to SanTan Sun News

After a workout or two, if you’re stiff and sore, be wise before trying to work through pain.

Ahwatukee professionals can show clients how to work through the discomfort to achieve a more active, healthy lifestyle.

fort to achieve a more active, healthy lifestyle. While it may initially be painful, the act of exercising often can help the healing and rehabilitation of certain issues.

Anthony Celio, clinic director of Spooner Physical Therapy in Ahwatukee, said that activity does not have to be regimented.

A big problem he sees is people who

sit at a desk or on the couch all day and then expect their body to work properly when they get up and move without so much as a warm up.

He said a healthy lifestyle must be worked toward consistently with regular activity, even for a short time.

“A lot of us, with work or whatever we do, unfortunately sit a big portion of the day,” Celio said. “Then, when we ask our body to do things, it’s not prepared properly.

“Even if you can stand up and stretch for five to ten minutes every couple of hours at work, or get up and just take a walk for 15-20 minutes, it can do a whole lot of good.”

Joe Micela, owner of Performance One Advanced Sports Training in Mesa says keep moving the joint, and keep the blood flowing around the joint and surrounding areas.

“It’s very important,” Micela said.

“When we see individuals that have an arthritic condition or something like it, their first instinct is to be sedentary and not do anything.

“That’s actually worse. It can condense the blood flow, which weakens the area and then can lead to all other kind of issues.”

See

ACHES on page 43

42

SPORTS & RECREATION

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

LA Fitness making changes in time for new year’s resolutions

BY ZACH ALVIRA Sports Editor

Ready to feel the burn? A new groupworkout program at a gym chain across the Southeast Valley is gaining popularity, just in time for those who’ve made improved fitness a new year’s resolution.

High Intensity Interval Training by LA Fitness is set to be introduced in the chain’s newest club in Mesa early in January. It will be incorporated into some of the chain’s other clubs in the region over time, as well.

“HIIT by LA Fitness is a fun, effective, 50-minute workout that is interactive with our amazing technology,” said Barbie Spark, the regional coordinator of aerobics for LA Fitness and lead of the program in Arizona. “Really, in 50 minutes you are getting a complete workout from head to toe.”

Introducing HIIT by LAF at certain gyms is part of LA Fitness’ $13.6 million worth

of renovations at 26 gyms in Arizona, including eight in the Southeast Valley that are receiving updated equipment, appearance and, in some places, layout.

Each HIIT by LAF session is directed by an instructor and focuses on strength, endurance and definition. Results vary by person, but it’s common to burn as many as 1,000 calories during and after each workout, she said.

The club’s first HIIT by LA Fitness studio in Arizona opened in November in north Phoenix. It features a station for cardio and strength training. Treadmills, rowers and bikes make up the cardio side of the room, while dumbbells, resistance bands and other equipment can be used on the other side for strength training.

LA Fitness’ new gym near Higley and Southern roads in Mesa is the next to incorporate the program. HIIT by LA Fitness memberships are separate from regular memberships at the gym.

Each participant is equipped with a

heart-rate monitor before taking the class. With the use of monitors in the studio, the instructor and participants can identify their heart-rate in real time.

The real-time updates and color-coded figures help the instructor identify short time intervals for which each participant is at maximum effort.

“We try to guide them through a workout but ultimately, they will do whatever they want with their bodies,” Sparks said.

“It’s meant for everyone to come in and meet their own fitness goals.”

Each class has 10 to 15 participants.

After being equipped with the heart-rate monitor, the instructor has all of them exit the studio. As the class is set to begin, the instructor explains what the goal is for the day.

A pump-up session followed by highfives, music and red lights get the workout going.

“I want people to give me their full effort and have a good time,” said Viki

Gamble, HIIT by LA Fitness instructor at the north Phoenix location. “This is for people to have a good workout and get closer to their goals. I just want them to give me their all.”

The smiles and laughter on the participants’ faces quickly turn to grimaces about halfway through the class. That’s also the point that most have already hit their designated two to five minutes of maximum effort. A cool-down period followed by stretching ends the class, with just about every participant exiting drenched in sweat.

Sparks envisions more HIIT by LAF studios to open in the East Valley and Scottsdale.

“This program is going to continue to grow,” Sparks said. “We don’t have the specifics as to where, but we are definitely not done growing.”

For more information on HIIT by LA Fitness and to book a complimentary free workout, visit welcome.lafitness.com/hiitby-laf/.

East Valley LA Fitness Clubs undergoing remodeling • Chandler: 2100 N. Dobson Road, remodel complete, reopened in October.

• Mesa: 2605 N. Power Road, remodel complete, reopened in December.

• Scottsdale: 1900 N. Scottsdale Road, remodel complete, reopened in November.

• Chandler: 3985 S. Arizona Ave., undergoing remodel, to reopen April, 2019.

• Gilbert: 3625 S. Gilbert Road, undergoing remodel, to reopen February, 2019.

• Ahwatukee: 810 S. Priest Drive, Suite D, undergoing remodel, to reopen February, 2019.

• Ahwatukee West, 4836 E. Chandler Blvd., undergoing remodel, to reopen March, 2019.

Zach Alvira

• Tempe: 63 E. Southern Ave., undergoing remodel, to reopen end of December.

HIIT by LA Fitness, a club within a club at some of the chain’s gyms, consists of 50-minute classes directed by an instructor. Treadmills, rowers and bikes make up the cardio side of the room. Dumbbells, resistance bands and other equipment for strength training are on the other.

A potent holiday punch spiked with fitness benefits for women

BY ZACH ALVIRA Sports Editor

The walls may be pink, but there is nothing sweet about what goes on inside the newest Jabz boxing studio in Mesa.

“You see pink and you think that it is just a women’s gym,” said Ann Marie Piatt, who owns it. “But this is an intense workout. When you’re finished with it, you feel like you’ve accomplished something.”

Piatt’s studio, 3638 E. Southern Ave., Suite C-101 in Mesa, is the newest in a chain spread across Scottsdale and the East Valley. The experiences and benefits in hers are representative of those at all Jabz studios.

Jabz is a full-body, high-intensity, interval-training workout that uses exercises

inspired by boxing. Each workout is meant exclusively for women.

For women in the region who’ve made fitness a resolution for the new year, Piatt says Jabz is a good choice. She knows firsthand. Piatt got her first taste of Jabz nearly four years ago after her nieces talked her into it. She had done kickboxing classes and tried Jabz shortly after her daughter was born to get back into shape.

It was nothing like she expected.

“It was hard. I thought I was going to Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

At Jabz women’s boxing studios, members never spar with each other. Instead, they hit or kick bags, dummies or pads that class trainers wear for one-on-one work. They never get hit back.

Instructor Darby Moran demonstrates.

die,” Piatt said. “I remember asking the trainer if I should come back when I was more in shape and she assured me to keep coming back.”

The more classes she attended, the more she became addicted to the fullbody workout.

Piatt felt lost when she and her family moved to Gilbert, far from a Jabz gym, so the thought of opening her own studio was born.

A teacher at the time, Piatt knew she didn’t want to do anything until the 201718 school year ended. After talking to the owners of the Jabz franchise, she received her license to open her own studio.

“I finally decided to do it and I was the 21st franchise license,” Piatt said. “I love See

JABZ on page 43

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

JABZ

one-on-one work. They never get hit back.

Jabz has several classes daily from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

On Saturday, the studio is open 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., the final class dedicated to new members. With 16 members to a class, each workout is positive and intimate with music and encouragement.

“We have members from 16 years old to 65 years old,” Piatt said. “Ladies who have been with us since the beginning now see new people come in and they

encourage them. It’s very positive.”

Piatt believes that she is creating a community within her studio that has made an impact in other ways on the youth in the community.

This holiday season, Piatt encouraged members of Jabz to donate household items to the Department of Child Services for children turning 18 and leaving foster care. Many of the young adults enter the world with only the help of DCS. Piatt and members of her studio donated a large box of dishes and household items as well as gift cards.

Having been open a short time, Piatt acknowledges that owning her own studio is still surreal every time she walks in.

“It’s hard and stressful, but I feed off the energy of our clients,” Piatt said. “Everyone who knew me before knew that I loved Jabz. Now, to be able to share that with other women, it’s great.”

She is offering a free one-week trial, available on the website.

For more information or to find the nearest Jabz, visit www.jabzboxing.com.

Contact Zach Alvira at zalvira@timespublications.com and follow him on Twitter @ZachAlvira.

He said exercising increases overall health, provided the exercise is done with proper form and is not increasing pain or causing further harm.

“You can’t change the arthritis, but you can definitely change the function of the joint a little bit, maybe more of the surrounding tissue,” Carling said. “That can be helpful. Obviously, there’s other non-related benefits to exercise that just help the body overall, so it’s multifaceted as long as you’re not making it worse.”

In that case, Carling added with a

chuckle, “The saying ‘no pain, no gain’ may not apply.”

There are preventative measures before getting on the treadmill or lacing up the basketball shoes.

Massage, Tai Chi, yoga or assisted stretching can prepare the body, the joints and any hurting areas to take more of an impact and perform at a higher level with less discomfort.

“Active people are asking more of their bodies but haven’t necessarily changed the way they take care of themselves,”

from page 42

the concept. I love the company and it just made sense for my family.”

Piatt’s studio opened in November near Val Vista and Southern drives in Mesa. A graduate of Dobson High, Piatt said she feels like she “came home” when she opened the studio and believes that she has already made an impact on the women in the community.

“I have had women who are saying their clothes fit differently in a short amount of time,” Piatt said. “There’s women who reach fitness goals they never knew they could. It’s all about empowerment.

“These women are doing things they never knew they could and it’s really cool.”

Each class is roughly 37 minutes with continuous strength and cardio movement. Each member is shown around the gym, which includes a ring and several stand-up boxing dummies and bags. Each station is numbered and has unique exercises with cardio in between.

Women in the class never spar with each other. Instead, they hit or kick bags, dummies or pads that class trainers wear for

ACHES

from page 41

Exercise can help relieve pain as long as it is not being caused by overuse. The truth is some ailments will not completely go away.

Steve Carling, a physical therapist at Andersen Physical Therapy, which serves Gilbert and Chandler, said that while sometimes people with ailments like arthritis fear the oncoming discomfort, that does not mean they should quit working entirely.

SPORTS & RECREATION

Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

At Jabz women’s boxing studios, members never spar with each other. Instead, they hit or kick bags, dummies or pads that class trainers wear for one-on-one work. They never get hit back.

Instructor Darby Moran demonstrates.

A TABLE FOR TWO?

43

Jabz studio locations Mesa: 3638 E. Southern Ave., Suite C-101, 602-524-2700.

Chandler: 941 W. Elliott Road, Suite 7, 480-788-0306.

Gilbert: 2335 S. Lindsay Road, Suite 103, 480-707-1981.

Tempe: 8707 S. Priest Drive, Suite 102, 480-788-0306.

Queen Creek: 21365 S. Ellsworth Road, Suite E104, 480-865-6200.

Scottsdale: 7770 E. McDowell Road, Suite 102, 602-885-6422.

Scottsdale-Pinnacle Peak: 7601 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Suite C15, 480-886-7123.

Scottsdale-Thunderbird: 13610 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 23, 480-788-0306.

Scottsdale-Via Linda: 8989 E. Via Linda, Suite 115, 480-454-8402.

Arcadia: 3136 E. Indian School Road, 602-885-6422. said Joe Magnacca, CEO of Massage Envy, headquartered in Scottsdale. “Conditioning, recovery and wellness routines aren’t complete without assisted stretching,” A service such as Massage Envy’s Total Body Stretch helps clients increase flexibility. This helps the body recover, as well, and prevent further injuries.

“Assisted stretching is on target with the consumer trends we’re seeing and an important part of our strategy to grow with new services and products,” Magnacca said.

FREE Teeth Whitening for All New Patients!

YOUR DESTINATION FOR DENTAL

Phind it

EXCELLENCE IN CHANDLER, AZ

480.935.5900 2815 E OCOTILLO RD SUITE #3 CHANDLER, AZ 85249

Dr Eric S. Bjerke, DMD and Staff

Holistic Dentistry

B E L L I S S I M O D E N T I S T R Y. C O M

SPORTS & RECREATION 44

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Cactus Football League hopes to boost adult tackle football in EV

BY ZACH ALVIRA Sports Editor

Some guys just can’t give it up. Even into adulthood, when some are beyond college age, playing tackle football still gives them a

thrill.

There are leagues for this, a well-kept secret, a function of many league owners being oblivious to the benefits of marketing.

That there are enough people interested to warrant forming entire leagues, much less a team or two, is an equally well-kept secret.

But there is demand, and the hundreds of men across the East Valley and Scottsdale who are involved in adult amateur tackle football take it pretty seriously.

With the recent cancellation of junior-college football programs across Arizona, the demand soon could be greater.

Matt Archer recognized a business opportunity when he saw one, and he strives for the new league that he has created to be an upgrade from others that essentially are adult Pop Warner football.

The emphasis of his Cactus Football League is on player development and on creating rules that allow participants to retain eligibility to play college football as a next step if given the chance.

For others, who might be older and for whatever reason have no hope of playing at a higher level, it’s the place to go to continue to knock the crap out of the guy across the line.

The idea came to Archer two years ago, shortly after he and the Arizona Spartans – an adult tackle-football program in the East Valley – lost in the semifinals of the Gridiron Football League.

First, there had been the Arizona Football League, which began more than 20 years ago and still is in business. The AZFL once was the most competitive in the state, but the balance of power shifted to the GFL. Then, Archer’s vision, along with that of his business partner, Rafiel Ashante Lee, came to reality as the CFL. Before August, Zach Alvira more than 10 Grown men will slug it out in the Cactus Football League, which begins play teams had agreed in February. Although this practice session is without pads, games are adult to join the inaugutackle football in full pads. ral Cactus Football Archer had joined the ownership of the League season that Spartans a month before the season. Short opens in February. Now, 16 teams are locked on offensive lineman, he played, himself, to in. help his team.

“The whole mission is to help the players,” “I had tears in my eyes and I told the guys Archer said. “A lot of players get missed bethat I would fix everything that we didn’t cause there aren’t resources within leagues have go well that season,” said Archer, who to market them, with stats being huge. That’s was 35 years old at the time. what schools look for. I owed it to the playIt wasn’t his play that disappointed him. ers to fix everything they didn’t get before As Owner of M.A. Designs in the East Valand try to give them the opportunity to get ley, Archer always emphasized marketing his to the next level.” business. He made it clear to the Spartans, Those as young as seniors in high school especially the few players who were looking who have finished their football seasons for a steppingstone to the next level, that he may play in the CFL. Because players are not would make changes. subsidized and must pay their own fees to The Cactus Football League was born. the league and to the team they join, they CFL teams are located across the East Val- maintain NCAA eligibility. ley, Scottsdale, Phoenix and Tucson.

“Our focus is to at least give the kids an

opportunity to play,” Archer said. “We are giving them the tools, whether it be Hudl for film and updated stats or just giving them a chance.”

Archer plans to promote the league to high schools this spring and will look into junior-college players whose careers may have hit a wall with the recent cancellation of all juco football programs in the state.

That promotion includes a top-notch website, into which the CFL invested thousands of dollars. Each player gets his own page for statistics, updated weekly.

Every Game of the Week will be live streamed on Facebook and other online platforms, providing an opportunity for family members in other parts of the country to tune in.

“That was one of my big things, to give those family members the ability to watch these guys play,” Archer said.

The league will play in high school stadiums during its inaugural season.

Archer brainstormed building his own facility. After about a month, he received a phone call to meet with developers who potentially could bring his plan to light.

“Come to find out it’s a $250 million project,” Archer said. “I was skeptical at first, but it turns out (another group is) already building it and they want people to jump in on the project. What we are working on now is to lease the three high school fields and to control the recreational stuff that happens in the future.”

Because negotiations are ongoing, Archer declined to comment on the complex.

Archer is hoping for all of these plans to become reality in 2020.

“Until I really use our platform to go somewhere, that is when it will hit me,” Archer said. “I’m excited. I’m ready to go.”

I don’t have a screw loose, but I have 8 in my leg from adult tackle football

BY ZACH ALVIRA Sports Editor

I never was the type of player who was going to be recruited and further my football career after high school. I knew that at

a young age.

Instead, I would pursue a career in sports news media, hoping to stay close not only to football but also to other sports I’d grown up playing.

A year after I graduated from Highland High, though, I still felt that itch to play.

I had no desire to play at the collegiate level. I had already invested too much in my education. But after coming across a photo of an adult tackle-football league here in Arizona, I knew that was my chance to continue playing a sport I love at a recreational level.

I joined the Arizona Football League, where I played for five seasons until this past year, when I made the jump to the new Cactus Football League.

I quickly realized that it wasn’t just a group of “weekend warriors” as many of the men – and I mean grown men – often called themselves. Some were fresh out of college, looking for a place to gather more film before figuring out their next move. Others, surprisingly, were ex-professionals, looking to fulfill that itch at a less competitive level.

Even though it was essentially adult Pop Warner football, it was extremely competitive.

Well, for the most part. When I first

Arizona Spine and Joint

Special to the San Tan Sun News

Sports editor Zach Alvira underwent two surgeries and the insertion of nine screws – one was removed during the second surgery – to repair a fractured leg suffered while playing in an adult recreational tackle-football league. He recovered and came back for more.

Sports editor Zach Alvira (right) makes a block in an adult amateur tackle-football league. A new group, the Cactus Football League, debuts in February with teams in the East Valley and Scottsdale emphasizing player development.

saw it, it was like “The Longest Yard.” It’s not strict. Some players don’t practice because of work schedules. Some just show up for the games. It’s not uncommon to see someone go for a smoke before they play.

And some arrived with less than their game face on after a night on the town.

That’s the kind of stuff that owner Matt Archer is trying to clean up in his new Cactus Football League.

I was 19 in my first year, and some of these guys were in their 30s. When I lined up against someone who had played at an elite level for the first time, I admit I was intimidated, especially given that I had been out of the sport for more than a year.

I had grown bigger, faster and stronger since high school, so I could hold my own as one of the youngest in the league. The first time I was on the receiving end of a big hit, I still felt it the next day.

But one aspect of these adult tackle-football leagues that differs from high school is that we are all in the same boat in one way or the other.

At the end of the day, we all have to go back to work on Monday. So even after a big hit that would generate a loud crowd and sideline reaction, everyone was there to pick you up.

In five years in the AZFL, I started in every game, on two teams. My first team, which went 0-10 the year before I joined, reached

the playoffs in four consecutive seasons.

That includes two straight state-championship appearances, though a broken leg held me out of the first.

That was the only major injury I had ever suffered in football. I never had an injury worse than a broken finger. Here I was, 22, playing in a recreational league and I break my leg.

Two surgeries, nine screws inserted (eight of them still there) and eight months of rehab later, I was ready to come back for the next season.

My leg still bothers me from time to time, especially when it gets cold. I have the plate and eight screws still attached to my fibula. But I just couldn’t walk – or limp – away from the game.

During my time in adult amateur tackle football, I have seen the landscape change, from the growth of new leagues to the demise of others.

I’ve played with guys younger than me who went on to play at the collegiate level, and even some who have been signed to play professionally.

Every league has attempted to transition from an amateur status to become a developmental league. Even for those like me who aren’t looking for anything more than a chance to put on the pads and hit a few people, it’s a great outlet.

There is one thing that I have enjoyed most about my time in amateur football: the camaraderie of playing with a bunch of guys who share my passion for the sport.

For that reason, I will continue to play until my body tells me otherwise. Just like everyone else.

45

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Opinion

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Thank you, Chandler – It’s been a great ride

BY MAYOR JAY TIBSHRAENY Guest Writer

When I was first elected to the City Council in 1986, I had no idea what I was in for. Nor did I think that three-plus decades later I would be finishing my seventh term as the mayor of this wonderful city. And, I wouldn’t change a thing.

In those early years I was on the council, we faced some significant challenges.

Our financial situation was bleak. And yet, with the coming growth we were sure to face, we had to change that.

One of my early goals on council, as vice mayor – and in my first term as Mayor in 1994, was to fix that. I am proud of all our past councils for embracing a goal to become one of the most financially stable cities in the country. Had we not, the growth of the 1990’s and early 2000’s, along with two recessions, could have killed our collective dreams for Chandler.

After eight years in the State Senate, I was privileged to have the people of Chandler welcome me back to the Mayor’s office in 2011. I created a number of initiatives of which I am very proud.

Coming back during the Great Recession was challenging. We held a job fair that attracted more than a hundred employers and thousands of people – and we called it Job Connect. From there, we started my Health Connect Initiative, focusing on mental, physical and financial health.

Moving from high growth to sustainability mode, we launched Neighborhood Connect, and ushered in the Mayor’s Listening Tour. I will always look back on these programs, knowing that we were able to provide resources for residents to help them improve their lives, while enhancing the overall quality of this city.

Some of the other areas where we made strong progress include transportation, parks and recreation, and planning and economic development. In my first terms as mayor, I was able to move up the construction of the Price Freeway, becoming the first city in the state to utilize a new financing option. That led the acceleration of Chandler Fashion Center, an economic boon to our city.

I have always been an advocate of parks and recreation.

We have developed so many amenities that we all can be very proud of, including: a new museum, which we

dedicated in early December; the 7.5-mile Paseo Trail system; bike park; skate park; arts center; community centers; as well as many pools and libraries – several in partnership with our school districts.

Through solid and balanced planning, we have created a place where people can truly live, work and play in comfort and safety.

We have one of the most robust economies in the Southwest, if not the nation.

Our talent pool runs deep, thanks to an outstanding education system. And our employment base is diversified and ever expanding.

Even as a Senator, I fought hard to preserve the dynamic employment center that is the Price Corridor. The Price, with its many anchors – Intel, Northrup, Wells Fargo, Infusionsoft, and now Allstate – among dozens of others – continues to solidify our reputation as the Innovation and Technology Hub of the Southwest.

And, of course, we have, over time, developed the finest public safety departments in the country. That is evident not just in our low crime rate, excellent response times and other statistics, but also in the support the community continues to show for these men and women.

I thoroughly enjoyed serving the

region in my time with Maricopa Association of Governments, Greater Phoenix Economic Council and the League of Arizona Cities and Towns. But, when it was announced to me that I was named the City and County Magazine Public Official of the Year, it was extremely special.

Special because that recognition was based on the community as a whole.

And, as a community, we have done this together. My ideas and efforts mean nothing if it were not for the buy-in of a collective vision.

My proudest accomplishment though has been the time I took to personally work with residents on things of concern to them. Personal conversations, emails, phone calls. I tried to be as responsive as humanly possible. I hope that came through because it was what I truly enjoyed most about the job. I look forward to continued service as Justice of the Peace. It will keep me in contact with our many residents – and again, many of them seeking help.

Thanks to all of you for your continued support through the years. I can’t begin to tell you what this great ride has meant to me. It’s been my privilege to serve you.

Don’t ignore someone’s depression before it’s too late

BY KIMBERLY MCWILLIAMS, LPC

Guest Writer

Someone you know – maybe your child, a teenager down the block or an adult family member, friend or colleague – is hurting inside.

You’ve noticed abrupt changes in his personality, seen her shrink from normal activities at school or projects at work, heard their emotional outbursts. You haven’t done anything about it, thinking maybe it’s a just a phase or not really your business.

Please ACT – Acknowledge, Care, Tell – immediately, because this person likely is struggling with depression and may be on a spiral to suicidal thoughts.

Here are steps to take: Know the warning signs. These may include noticeable changes in eating, sleeping and grooming, withdrawing from friends, giving away possessions, taking unnecessary risks, scratching or cutting

themselves, increased drug or alcohol use or talking about suicide.

Start a dialogue. Be open, not judgmental, be supportive and direct.

Say, “You look sad to me, can you tell me what’s going on?” Be persistent and listen

for the warning signs.

Be clear and compassionate. Don’t be afraid to use the word “suicide,” and ask them if they are contemplating it. Make sure they understand you and others care about them, and that they are valuable

Deadline

MAILING ADDRESS:

1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway, Suite 219, Tempe, AZ 85282 TELEPHONE: 480-348-0343 FAX: 480-898-5606

©2017 SanTan Sun News

For News Tips, Editorial Articles, Opinion or Classifieds, email is preferred.

NEWS EMAIL ADDRESS: news@santansun.com ADS EMAIL ADDRESS: ads@santansun.com WEBSITE ADDRESS: www.santansun.com

Editorial and Advertising Noon Thursday, January 10th, for the Saturday, January 19th issue

35,000

Total Circulation 27,250+ Driveways Fifty square mile coverage area from Price/101 to Greenfield and from Frye to Hunt Highway.

and important. Assure them there is always hope and that they are never alone.

Assess and act. If you determine the situation is serious, get help. Talk with your child’s school counselor or a trusted teacher. If the symptoms persist, get professional help through your insurance, or by calling Terros Health at (602) 6856000 or the Crisis Response Network 24hour line at (602) 222-9444.

Devise a safety plan. This could be an agreement that the person will call you immediately when sad, depressed or hopeless, or designation of a trusted person to dispense medications as needed and lock up or discard the rest.

Be their champion. Don’t give up. You may save a life.

Kimberly McWilliams is a licensed professional counselor and the clinical site manager at Terros Health, a Phoenixbased nonprofit, behaviorally-led whole health, integrated care provider.

SanTan Sun News is distributed by AZ Integrated Media, a circulation service company owned by Times Media Group. The public is permitted one copy per reader. For further information regarding the circulation of this publication or others in the Times Media Group family of publications, and for subscription information, please contact AZ Integrated Media at circ@ azintegratedmedia.com or 480-898-5641. For circulation services please contact Aaron Kolodny at aaron@azintegatedmedia.com.

PUBLISHER

Steve T. Strickbine VICE PRESIDENT

Michael Hiatt PUBLISHER EMERITUS

Laurie Fagen

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Jane Meyer jane@timespublications.com Tracey Wilson tracey@timespublications.com

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Paul Maryniak

Jay Banbury

MANAGING EDITOR

AD DESIGN

Colleen Sparks

Mike Schieffer

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Courtney Oldham DESIGN MANAGER

Chuck Morales III

Proud member of the

46

Neighbors

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Chandler teachers know charity is Fiesta Bowl’s goal

BY KRISTINE CANNON Staff

It didn’t matter who played in the Fiesta Bowl earlier this week for several dozen East Valley teachers, including eight in Chandler They already won.

Thanks to three-year-old Fiesta Bowl Charities’ Wishes for Teachers program and the bowl’s generosity, they were among 200 K-12 teachers across Arizona who shared $1 million for schoolrelated wishes that ranged from iPads to classroom furniture.

The $5,000 grants underscore an important feature of the Fiesta Bowl: It is more than just the two highly anticipated college football bowl games the organization hosts each year.

It’s what the Fiesta Bowl does the other 11 months out of the year that the nonprofit organization can’t stress enough.

Since 1971, the Fiesta Bowl has supported nonprofits, built playgrounds, taken children shopping during the holidays, donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to teachers throughout the state and so much more.

Over the 2018-19 season alone, the Fiesta Bowl has given $2.5 million to

Kyrene School District

Chandler native Juanpablo DeLeon, who teaches at Centennial Middle School in Ahwatukee, devoted his $5,000 grant to new wrestling mats since he is also the wrestling coach at the school.

He’s being congratulated by Kyrene Superintendent Jan Vesely.

charities.

“We want people to understand that by purchasing tickets with us [to the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl held at University of Phoenix Stadium and the Cheez-It Bowl held at Chase Field], you are helping

your entire state,” said Fiesta Bowl spokesman Jose Moreno.

Undoubtedly, football is important to the organization, but what most don’t realize is that the game is the vehicle that allows Fiesta Bowl to accomplish

its mission – which was rewritten four years ago in an effort to emphasize its nonprofit nature.

The mission states: “The Fiesta Bowl strives to creative a positive economic impact for Arizona and focus on the community while having fun.”

“The one thing you don’t see in either the mission or vision statement is the word ‘football,’” said Fiesta Bowl’s Chief Operating Officer, Bob Whitehouse, at a recent Experience Arizona tourism meeting.

Over the past eight years, Fiesta Bowl Charities has given more than $12.5 million across the state, with over 300 local charitable organizations benefiting from Fiesta Bowl Charities.

This year alone, $2.5 million was distributed among 60 nonprofit organizations, including the Arizona Humane Society, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Phoenix, The Be Kind People Project and more.

To break the numbers down even further, Fiesta Bowl’s impact for the 201819 season includes serving one million people, impacting over 400,000 children and 800 veterans, serving over 288,000 meals, providing additional educational See

FIESTA on page 48

Chandler piano prodigy Kylie Smith in big show

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Managing Editor

A Chandler teen pianist who fell in love with music at 3 is thrilled she’s one of three students from across the country chosen to perform at a prestigious, large musical instrument convention this month.

Kylie Shea Smith, 14, a freshman at Campo Verde High School in Gilbert, will play a song she composed, “In Memory of Rocky,” on piano at the Junior Original Concert at the 2019 National Association of Music Merchants show Jan. 24 in Anaheim, California.

It’s reportedly the largest musical instrument convention held in North America and features Yamaha Music students. Euphonium player Brian C. Wilson will play alongside Smith at the national convention.

Smith, whose face lights up when she plays piano, has played at the National Junior Original Concert shows in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2016, as well as at the International Junior Original Concert in Tokyo in 2014 and last year.

The Junior Original Concert features students who take classes through the Yamaha Music Education System. It gives the young musicians a chance to tap into their musical potential by composing original songs and performing them in front of eager audiences.

The Yamaha Music schools operate in 42 different countries, and Smith studies at the East Valley Yamaha Music School in Chandler.

“It will be fun to see what the other

Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

Kylie Shea Smith, 14, of Chandler, gets a piano lesson from Heidi Grimes, owner of the East Valley Yamaha Music School, at the school on North Arizona Avenue. Smith is one of three students from around the country chosen to perform at the Junior Original Concert at the 2019 National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) show this month in Anaheim, California.

people have composed, what new music and other instruments from all over the world have created,” Smith said.

Participating in the previous JOC as part of the NAMM show in the previous years was a thrilling experience.

“I definitely had a lot of nerves and excitement about it,” Smith said.

She said she had a chance to practice and get “technique work from professionals” during the national JOC events and practice her song prior to performing it.

At this year’s NAMM show, Smith will play a song she wrote about her godmother’s dog that died. She said she and her brother, Karson, 9, do not have any pets and they “just adopted him as our dog.”

Her godmother, Cheryl Tondrowski, and her husband, John Tondrowski, were crying when they saw Kylie perform the song the first time, said Stephanie Smith, Kylie’s mother. Kylie said it took her about a year to compose the song.

Kylie’s composition teacher, Tomoko

Yonemaru at the East Valley Yamaha Music School, helped her with the song.

Kylie said Heidi Grimes, owner of the East Valley Yamaha Music School, works with her on refining her “composition technique for performance,” while teacher Karen Nguyen teaches her repertoire.

Grimes said Kylie’s passion and talent as a musician are evident.

“When she was a very young child, she found extreme amounts of joy in music,” Grimes said. “We always look for that. When a child is simply delighted when they’re learning new things, she has a special something. When she (Kylie) plays for audiences, she communicates the music beautifully. She’s really downto-earth, kind, friendly. She helps out in the office. She enjoys helping younger students. She’s a very, very gifted young lady.”

She said something that makes Kylie unusual is she says “thank you” and corrects any mistakes she makes while playing. But Grimes said she saw Kylie perform at the recent international concert, and “she just nailed her performance.”

As part of the Yamaha Music instruction, students sing and play piano and keyboards and learn to improvise.

“That’s really the full circle of music learning,” Grimes said. “That’s totally valuable for children because they get to express what’s inside of them.”

Kylie takes three lessons a week: in a group Grimes teaches, as well as with See

PRODIGY on page 48

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

47

48

NEIGHBORS

FIESTA

from page 46

programming to 265,000 under-served youth, donating 60,000 backpacks to students, and donating three playgrounds, impacting an estimated 15,000 people.

In addition, over 19,000 hours were volunteered via the Fiesta Bowl organization and its Fiesta Bowl Charities.

In terms of economic impact, in 12 years, the Fiesta Bowl and its surrounding events generated an estimated $2.75 billion for the Arizona economy.

With the money generated from the games and events, Fiesta Bowl Charities is able to give it back to the community, including teachers.

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

“For some classes, it was musical instruments; for others, just being able to take their class to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York. These are things that have truly an impact,” Whitehouse said of Wishes for Teachers. “We’re able to do that because we have so many fans.”

In terms of volunteering, Fiesta Bowl Charities and the 2,500 volunteers who make up the organization began dedicating their time to the community immediately following the Cheez-It Bowl on Dec. 26.

As part of this year’s Fiesta Bowl event, the organization will host for its 20th year the Honeywell Fiesta Bowl Aerospace Challenge, presented by Kadima.Ventures.

“It’s exciting to be able to serve more and more kids and tell the mission and story of STEM and how it’s impacting the classrooms,” Moreno said.

As part of the challenge, students from about 200 schools across the state work with Honeywell engineers to create a scale model and provide a written report about an International Logistics Mission to colonize Phobos, a moon of Mars.

This year’s challenge will take place at Arizona State University’s West Campus on Jan. 24 and Jan. 25, at ASU’s Polytechnic Campus on Jan. 28 and Jan. 29. The finals will take place at the National Bank of Arizona on Feb. 9.

“If you come to this event for 10

minutes and listen to these kids blow these engineers away with how the GPS works on phones, you’re like, ‘OK, what was I doing when I was a 10-year-old?’

These kids have thought through every little detail, and they’re able to do that at no cost,” Whitehouse said.

Moving into the 2019-2020 season, which kicks off in April, Fiesta Bowl Charities plans to impact even more people in need.

“The more that we can do and align our partners with our events and programs that we do that’s going to impact more kids, more veterans, more teachers, that’s a win for us,” Moreno said.

Information: fiestabowl.org.

From furniture to technology, grants helped teachers SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Here are the Chandler teachers who this year reaped $5,000 grants from Fiesta Bowl Charities’ Wishes for Teachers program.

The teachers will be able to spend money for a classroom or school-wide

PRODIGY

from page 46

Nguyen and Yonemaru.

The busy teen said playing in the international JOC concerts was “pretty cool” and she met young musicians from Japan, Indonesia, Taiwan, China and Mexico at the most recent one.

“It was amazing honestly,” Kylie said.

use that they provided the Fiesta Bowl.

Their school and what they intend to buy are listed.

Joycelyn Craft, Arizona College Prep, 30 CX calculators with charging stations and a Vernier CBR 2 motion detector.

Kandace Jilek, Frye Elementary, flexible

seating options for her class.

Sarah McGinnis, Fulton Elementary, tablets.

Kym Vierthaler, Hartford Sylvia Encinas Elementary, provide field trips and guest speakers for the children.

Andrea Vester, Kyrene Traditional Academy, tablets and tablet materials.

“It’s always nice to see and meet people from all around the world. Of course, there’s a little language barrier, but it’s fun trying to communicate in music for one.

Of course, there’s translators.”

Kylie, who also plays violin in her school’s orchestra, said she gets nervous before going on stage.

“I always get a stage anxiety, but over the years it’s gotten less and less

intimidating,” she said.

Her mother said it’s been great to see how Kylie’s compositions have evolved when she gets lessons from the Yamaha teachers at the national JOC events.

“It’s amazing because your piece started out one way,” Stephanie said. “The more technique that she gets … training from teachers, it’s amazing just to see how it matures. It’s beautiful. It’s exciting.

Donate!

Margaret Witt, Legacy Traditional, iPads.

Jessica Rudloff, Andersen Elementary, iPads.

Juanpablo De Leon, a Chandler native who teaches at Centennial Middle School in Ahwatukee, is buying wrestling mats since he’s the wrestling coach

It’s amazing to watch.”

Stephanie introduced Kylie to music when she first took her to a music class at the Downtown Chandler Library when she was 3. One of the free classes at the library introduced children to Yamaha Music while another class she took later was at another location.

See

PRODIGY on page 49

COMPASSIONATE COMPREHENSIVE CARE • FULL SERVICE HOSPITAL STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY • DERMATOLOGY & SPA SERVICES

ARIZONA INCOME TAX CREDIT Thanks to the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit Law, ARS § 43-1088, donate to Chandler/Gilbert Arc. Contributions earn dollar-for-dollar tax credit on your Arizona Tax return.

The maximum credit for contributions is $400 for single or head of household, or $800 for married taxpayers.

Credit eligible contributions that are made on or before April 15th following the close of the taxable year may be applied to either the current or the preceding taxable year and are considered to have been made on the last day of that taxable year.

Chandler/Gilbert Arc has been serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the East Valley since 1975, providing community living, employment and day treatment & training opportunities daily.

Check to see if your employer will match your donation: http://doublethedonation.com/cgarc

Please donate today: www.cgarc.org

Andrea Stickland, DVM

Owner/Operator of AMCofC

Carolyn Duregger, DVM Associate Veterinarian

3250 N San Marcos Place Chandler, AZ 85225-7789

(480) 892-9422 Chandler/Gilbert Arc is an IRS Section 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, and is a Qualifying Charitable Tax Organization registered with the Arizona Department of Revenue. Our QCO code is 20245. Contact the Arizona DOR at (602) 255-3381, or visit www.revenue.state.az.us

Associate Veterinarian

Kristy Sorenson, DVM Associate Veterinarian

“Our mission is to provide the best hospital experience to our clients and patients via a clean, relaxed environment with knowledgeable and courteous staff. We will continue to evolve to provide the best veterinary medicine, the latest in advance technology and client education.”

Call today and schedule an appointment for your beloved pet!

480-339-0406 Follow us on Facebook for updates and more information!

Chandler/Gilbert Arc

Gabriela Durig, DVM

• • • • • • • •

PREVENTIVE WELLNESS SPAY/NEUTER DENTISTRY DIAGNOSTICS SOFT TISSUE SURGERY K-LASER THERAPY ACUPUNCTURE AND MORE!

270 W. CHANDLER HEIGHTS RD., STE. 3 CHANDLER, AZ 85248 480-339-0406 | myvet@amcofc.com | www.AMCofC.com HOURS: MONDAY-FRIDAY 8am-5:30pm • SATURDAY 8am-12pm

NEIGHBORS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

PRODIGY

from page 48

“The first one was amazing because they talked about how music tells a story,” Stephanie said.

Kylie said during concert season she plays piano about eight hours a week and is busy juggling honors classes at school.

“You don’t really have a lot of time to do anything besides lots of music and lots of school,” she said. “We find ways to balance it.”

While she loves music, especially jazz, Kylie said she would like to go into the medical field someday as some type of therapist. Stephanie works in quality assurance for a company that provides

physical, speech and occupational therapy for children. At school Kylie is taking a biomedicine class.

She said the music classes have prepared her for “a lot of different events in life.”

“It’s definitely helped me gain a lot of self-discipline, hard work for a certain goal,” Kylie said. “That sort of thing will

49

be very helpful in applying to different educational fields and stuff like that. It’s definitely taught me quite a few things that I don’t know what I’d do without them. It’s been a mostly fun experience. I really love every part of the experience.”

The East Valley Yamaha Music School is at 3160 N. Arizona Ave., Suite 102.

Information: evyms.com.

Piper Trust awards fellowship to Trinity Donovan SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Former Chandler City Council member and longtime community advocate Trinity Donovan has received one of five 2018 fellowships from the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust – which makes the awards to “exceptional leaders eager to grow personally and professionally while advancing the mission of the fellows program to produce impactful change.”

Donovan, who served on council from 2007-2015, is CEO of AZCEND, a nonprofit that helps people as they move from crisis to stability and ultimately to prosperity.

Working in nonprofit leadership positions for the past 19 years, her areas of focus have included hunger and homelessness, early childhood, senior programs, financial stability and youth development.

She has also represented the city on a regional and national level in areas of human services, transportation, water and sustainability.

Donovan holds a bachelor’s degree in comparative studies in race and ethnicity,

and a master’s degree in sociology from Stanford University. She is a graduate of Valley Leadership, a Phoenix Business Journal Forty Under 40 awardee, and has served on a variety of boards and commissions.

The Piper Trust said Donovan will use her fellowship to “explore successful social enterprise models in order to bring an additional source of revenue to AZCEND and provide jobs for participants to support themselves and their families.

“She plans to attend the Stanford Social Entrepreneurship Executive Program and to visit successful social enterprises throughout the U.S. Seeing the value in positive psychology and increased engagement, Donovan will complete a program at the Langley Group Institute, focusing on “positive leadership, positive HR, positive parenting, and positive communities,” the trust said.

She also will attend the StoryBrand workshop to improve her storytelling and messaging skills, and also attend a creative writing retreat as a time for reflection.

“As we help people on their journeys

Special to SanTan Sun News

Trinity Donovan, former Chandler City Council member and executive director of AZCEND, has been named a Piper Fellow.

toward prosperity, one major roadblock

is finding meaningful employment that allows people to support themselves and their families,” Donovan said. “How do we address this barrier with an opportunity to strengthen our organization and establish a new funding stream? How do we equip ourselves to respond to emerging opportunities to further serve our community and utilize people’s strengths in this process?

“The Piper Fellowship will allow me to explore these questions, further develop skills and knowledge, and put practical tools in place that will strengthen our employees, our programs and the people we serve.”

The 2018 Piper Fellows will participate in a self-designed, professional development sabbatical “focused on strengthening leadership skills and exploring renowned programs that can help nonprofits become more effective and resilient,” the trust said.

The fellowship also offers each selected organization potential grants of up to $90,000 as well as support for study and travel for other colleagues of the fellows within their organization.

Saving a Life from a potential catastrophe EVERY 10 MINUTES

1 Year Anniversary Event!

Friday January 11th, 2019 Sublime Cartridges B1G1 FREE

Sublime 50mg Edibles B2G1 FREE

but I’m never alone.

I have Life Alert.®

Farm Fresh Flower B1G1 FREE

AS SEEN ON

TV

Saturday January 12th, 2019 Canamo Concentrates B1G1 FREE

Timeless Cartridges 40% OFF

Mohave Green Flower B1G1 FREE

TRU Infusion B1G1 FREE

(TRU Infusion Edibles, Topicals, Tinctures) (Limit 1 Canamo Mini-Slab Per Patient)

For a FREE brochure call:

1-855-822-1055

480-418-6000

3855 S Gilbert Rd #109, Gilbert, AZ SALON / SPA (Facials, Hair Services) • MEDSPA (Botox, Fillers, Facials and Body Contouring)

Saturday January 12th, 2019

Buy Any 2 Syringes of Juvederm, Get 20% OFF + FREE Deluxe Hydrafacial

Aunt Ellie’s Edibles B1G1 FREE

*This deal cannot be shared. EXPIRES 1/31/19.

With coupon only. Excludes Juvederm Plus Volbella Restylane 0.5. Not valid with any other offer.

Item 9 Labs Concentrates & Cartridges B1G1 FREE (Limit 1 Aunt Ellies Super Mega Brownie Per Patient)

Buy One Treatment of KYBELLA, Get

20% Discount EXPIRES 1/31/19.

*All Deals While Supplies Last. No Stacking of Discounts. Restrictions may apply.*

NEW CLIENT SPECIAL! 7.89/unit BOTOX or $ 99 40 units of DYSPORT EXPIRES 1/31/19.

New clients only. With coupon only. One coupon per customer. Not valid with any other offer.

Must present coupon with incoming order.

Cannot be combined with any other offers.

20% Discount

on ALL Salon Services EXPIRES 1/31/19. New clients only.

One coupon per customer. With coupon only.

Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Buy 1 Syringe of Juvederm,

Get 10% Discount + FREE Blow-out EXPIRES 1/31/19. With coupon only.

Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Microneedling Treatment

99

$

Dermaplaning - $45 Custom Facial - $49 EXPIRES 1/31/19.

Cannot be combined with any other offers.

BOOK ONLINE @ pureorganicbeautyandmedspa.com

NEIGHBORS 50

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Chandler horse trainer strides to national award

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Managing Editor

A Chandler horse trainer is riding high after being distinguished with a national award recognizing her contributions to the community.

Tammy Smith, 51, who owns Fox Mask Basic Horsemanship in Chandler, earned the 2018 Greatmats National Horse Trainer of the Year award.

A former student nominated Smith for the award and then the public voted on who they wanted to be picked as the winner online at the Greatmats website.

Smith and John M. Joyner Jr., 64, of Canutillo, Texas, received a combined approximately 4,700 out of the 6,100 total votes during the two weeks of the online voting.

Smith and Joyner were the two finalists, and Greatmats officials interviewed them to find out more about them before choosing Smith as the winner.

“I thought it was absolutely amazing,” Smith said. “It was exciting. I just wasn’t expecting it at all. Everybody’s been congratulating me. Everybody was excited.”

Greatmats officials looked for someone who they thought best demonstrated integrity, service and quality in their work as horse trainers.

The horse trainers nominated this year were from Louisiana, Minnesota, Michigan, North Carolina, Arizona,

Special to SanTan Sun News

Tammy Smith, 51, who owns Fox Mask Basic Horsemanship in Chandler, received the 2018 Greatmats National Horse Trainer of the Year award. With her is her horse, Romeo.

Florida, Oregon, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, New Jersey, Georgia, Ohio, North Dakota and Vermont.

“We were impressed by the number of people who publicly showed their support for Tammy and the passion she shows for her students,” Brett Hart, marketing specialist for Greatmats, said.

“She is clearly an inspiration to those around her.”

The prizes were $250 in Greatmats products or a $150 cash option for Smith’s training center, a profile on Smith and her

training facility that was released with the winner announcement and a National Horse Trainer of the Year Certificate.

Smith grew up riding horses, first in Montoursville, Pennsylvania, where she was living as a child, and then began her horse-riding lessons business full-time in 2012.

Prior to starting Fox Mask Basic Horsemanship, Smith taught horse riding part-time. She teaches any students ages 7 and older with the oldest person she taught in her 60s. At any given time Smith

has 25 to 30 students and a waiting list.

She has been involved with riding, showing and teaching other people how to ride and is certified with the Certified Horsemanship Association.

Smith’s specialty is “hunter jumper” and she starts all her beginners on English so they can learn balance, control and getting a feel for a horse.

She rotates her students around to different horses so they can learn the varied characteristics and riding styles each horse can teach them.

Smith also encourages her students to take part in horse shows and competitions to improve their riding skills.

Her former student, Delainey Bell, 21, who nominated Smith for the Greatmats award, was a two-time state champion and came in third-, fourth- and fifthplaces many times in competitions.

Fellow finalist Joyner started training ‘’paints, quarters and Arabians’’ in 1978 and has kept training off and on for the last four decades, according to the Greatmats website. He has won many national championships and Top 10 awards through the years.

Greatmats is a national horse stall, stable and trailer flooring company based in Milltown, Wisconsin.

The specialty flooring retailer also honors people in other professions including martial arts instructors, dance instructors and dog trainers.

Information: greatmats.com.

Neighbors bring out bikes for a big bash

BY SIERRA POORE Contributor

Approximately 150 people rode bicycles decorated with Christmas lights and streamers through a Chandler neighborhood two weeks ago as a part of the fourth annual Holiday Biker Bash.

The Holiday Biker Bash, hosted at three different houses around Tarwater Elementary School, is a sort of pub crawl through the neighborhood, said Stephanie Kohlmeier, who originated the idea.

Michelle Dwexter, owner of one of the host homes, said everyone is asked to bring a food item ahead of time, and that the first house serves appetizers, the second entrees and the third desserts.

Desiree Neumann said the event has been “getting bigger and bigger every year.”

“I think more people hear about it and so the invite list just explodes,” she said.

Neumann said her favorite part of the event is the bike riding.

“I really like the bike riding because we don’t go on bike rides that much as a family but when we do this, it makes us think about how important it is,” she said.

“Everybody loves it.”

Dexter likes the impact the bash has on everyone.

“My favorite thing is that we bring the community together,” she said. “We’ve got a great group of neighbors and to have this opportunity to come together as families is just a unique opportunity in today’s world, and I love the fact that I’m able to give my kids and other kids these memories.”

She said she volunteered to host three years ago when the count hit 100 people because she, like the other two hosts, lives in a cul de sac.

Sierra Poore/Contributor

The Holiday Biker Bash participants in Chandler gathered for a group photo during their fourth annual event. They rotate among three host homes as they celebrate the season.

“It’s worked out well,” she said. “Kids have a safe place to run around. All the bikes can get parked. My neighbors are all really good about us invading the neighborhood for an hour.”

More than anything else, she added, the Holiday Biker Bash gives everyone a chance to get to know one another better.

“I think it gets us to know our neighbors,” Dexter explained. “It gives me the opportunity to go and touch base with each of my neighbors a couple times a year. It gives me the opportunity to see the parents of kids I don’t get to see at

school all the time.”

It also allows the kids to get to know one another.

“It gives my kids the opportunity to interact with kids who are outside their grades but still live in the neighborhood so when they see them at the park, they’re no longer a stranger. They’re somebody who has been to their house or to a common event,” she said.

Kohlmeier said the event has worked out so well because so many people have been willing to step up to make it happen.

While she may have had the vision for

it, it was her friends who stepped up to host, she said.

Dexter said she decided to host because she recognized “that in order to have events like this people have to volunteer.”

“I’m very fortunate that everybody’s willing to contribute to it,” she said. “I’m just providing mostly the place.”

She said she hopes “people will learn there’s still community to be had within their own neighborhood and their own environment, and all they have to do sometimes is just ask and people will come.”

NEIGHBORS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

51

Doctor: Ease into New Year’s resolution to get fit to avoid injury

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Managing Editor

Often people dive into their New Year’s resolutions of getting in shape head-first, but for those who haven’t worked out recently, the sudden, strenuous activity can be dangerous.

So said Dr. Penny Bowen, a musculoskeletal radiologist and physician site director at EVDI Medical Imaging at 1076 W. Chandler Blvd. in Chandler.

Bowen warns people to be careful, pace themselves and know when to stop or take a break when they exercise.

“Have some realistic expectations,” she said. “Give your body time to adjust.

We all want to hop into the gym right off the bat. The types of injuries I often see are strain injuries and sprain injuries related to ligaments. We also see things like fractures, a lot of trip-and-fall-type injuries, soft tissue injuries like bruising.”

Pain, tenderness and spasms are “hallmarks of a muscle strain,” Bowen said. People can experience muscle strain when running and lifting legs high in the air, for example.

Muscle sprains are strains but referring to a ligament, Bowen said.

“We often see those in the ankles and the wrists,” she said.

Nothing has broken, but the connective tissue or ligament between bones is stretched or torn when muscles are sprained, Bowen said.

Sometimes people experience stress fractures when they’re running with old shoes or don’t warm up first. Other times those not familiar with exercise equipment have fallen and suffered

“Plan working out three days at most during the week. You’re going to need time for your muscles to heal, to prevent stress-related injuries.”

She also recommends people start “in moderation” when lifting weights and “limit repetitions.”

“A lot of this is common sense,” Bowen said. “People don’t listen to their body. They need to look out for warning signs of muscle fatigue as they’re heading towards a stress fracture.”

While it is normal to feel sore after working out, if muscle soreness persists for a week or so and the pain is significant, people should seek medical treatment, she said. It’s also important EVDI Medical Imaging Dr. Penny Bowen, a musculoskeletal radiologist and physician site director at EVDI Medical Imaging in Chandler, urges to be aware of “undue shortness of breath,” people to ease into exercise, and to listen to their bodies. nausea and dizziness when exercising, Bowen said. fractures, like on treadmills.

“A lot of injuries are based on incorrect To treat minor injuries like sprains and Bowen recommends people who use of equipment,” Bowen said. haven’t worked out in a while to see That includes using weights that’re too strains, people should remember RICE or rest the injury, ice it, apply compression a doctor to find out if they’re healthy heavy and falling on treadmills. and elevate the injury, she said. enough to start and get some advice “We always say, ‘Start slow and keep it EVDI has been providing diagnostic about what level is appropriate. simple,’” Bowen said. imaging services across the East Valley Another good idea is to seek help She said take time to plan out light, from a professional trainer or a friend 10-minute cardio exercises and stretching. region since 1989.

Information: evdi.com who is experienced in the gym, she said.

“Don’t forget to rest,” Bowen said.

ear! y t s 1 3 r u o n i Now

ERE !

H S I O P X E G UNNIN R T S E G N O L ARIZONA’S

Financial | g in iv L t n e m re eti Healthcare | R Education | ir a p e R e m o Leisure | H d More... n a l e v ra T & r u Casinos | To t by

Entertainmen

ONA S. SENIOR ARIZ M & S N O TT U THE D

n. 3 0 t h a J , y a d s e n d We 9am - 1pm on Center ti n e v n o C a s 01 Me Mesa, A Z 852

Street | 201 N. Center

Silver

Sponsor

Bronze

Sponsors

Bag

Sponsor

FREE!

566 -1 9 5 9 ) 0 0 8 ( 0• (480) 898-650niorexpos.com www.se

Lots of Priz es and Givea ways INCLUDING a

$100 DRAW Every Hou

ING

r!

52

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

You Can Choose Your Family

Little Woods

PRE-PURCHASE 20% DISCOUNT CODE

“REDCARPET”

JAN 17-21, 2019

DOWNTOWN CHANDLER RED CARPET CEREMONY 200 FILM SCREENINGS FILMMAKING WORKSHOPS GRAND AWARD CEREMONY FILM MARKET & EXPO DISCUSSION PANELS FILM NETWORKING NIGHTLY AFTER PARTIES

1-866-727-0093

info@chandlerfilmfestival.com

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

NEIGHBORS

53

For former Gilbert mayor and wife, Cambodia a happy place

BY SRIANTHI PERERA Contributor

About six months have passed since former Gilbert Mayor John Lewis and his wife, LaCinda, moved to Cambodia to serve a three-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The tropical Southeast Asian country was unfamiliar to them, and they had a few months to learn the rudiments of the Cambodian language, Khmer.

Now, the couple refers to their host country as “paradise.”

“We are wonderfully happy and engaged,” LaCinda said.

As mission president and companion, their lives revolve around church members; missionaries, including elders and sisters from several countries; and sightseeing trips.

“Time passes very quickly, and we are not really homesick,” she added. ‘We do miss family and friends, but our work is purposeful.”

But their thoughts do stray toward the home and happy life they left behind, albeit temporarily.

John misses mowing the yard, playing basketball twice-weekly with friends, and interacting with businesses and individuals in Gilbert and the East Valley, where he had been president/CEO of the East Valley Partnership until he received the call from his church.

LaCinda misses visiting the Gilbert Mormon Temple and craves her backyard fruit trees and readily available favorite food items, such as Ghirardelli chocolate chips and maple syrup.

It didn’t matter that Thanksgiving was without turkey or that the coming Christmas will be sans a decorated pine tree. There’s plenty to be thankful about in their new roles, they say. And there are substitutes they can work with.

During Thanksgiving week, they participated in three separate chicken feasts: one in Kampong Cham/Kampong Thom to the east of Phnom Penh, where they oversee 10 missionaries; another in Battambang/Siem Reap to the northwest with 18 missionaries; and the third in Phnom Penh on Thanksgiving Day at one of their church buildings.

The meals included potatoes and rice, stuffing and yams, fruit, rolls and a pumpkin dessert.

“With the help of six senior couples – retired volunteers who leave their families to serve missions around the world – we successfully filled the stomachs of 95 missionaries,” LaCinda said.

Now, they are preparing for their first Christmas in Cambodia.

In a word, it’s “basic.” The mission home has an artificial tree with a few decorations.

There are none of the extended trips to the mall with a long gift list, an equally

Photos courtesy of LaCinda Lewis

Thanksgiving was no small affair for the Lewises, who hosted 95 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints missionaries.

lengthy itemization of grocery ingredients to be taken to a supermarket and the accompanying last-minute shopping anxieties.

Friends in Gilbert and some of the missionaries’ moms sent them some sweet treats and gifts.

The majority of the country’s citizens are Buddhist, so Christmas celebrations are a commercially imported idea except for those who identify as Christian, LaCinda said.

“Some of the larger stores are beginning to stock items for Christmas stockings,” she said.

“Since the essence of Christmas is the birth of Jesus Christ, it matters little where we are or what we have as long as our focus is on the Savior and Redeemer of the world,” she added.

Perhaps the biggest gift will be the visit of their son, Ed, who is working in Geneva, Switzerland, and will fly to Cambodia for Christmas. Ed will be joined by their son, CJ, and his wife, Taryn, for post-Christmas festivities.

This is the first time that family members are visiting, although the Lewises have already hosted friends and claim to have “rolled out the red carpet” for them.

“We are certain that all of our children and maybe some grands and hopefully our siblings, nieces and nephews, and LaCinda’s father will eventually make a trip to Cambodia in the next 2 1/2 years,” John said.

Visitors aside, there’s much to be done.

They work with 98 missionaries and 28 church congregations with 15,000 members scattered throughout Cambodia, who are based in 15 church buildings.

A Mormon temple for Phnom Penh, Cambodia was announced recently. The Lewises will have returned to Gilbert by the time it’s constructed, but they can help with the foundation, they said.

“Our world in this Cambodia adventure seems to be perfectly balanced between running the marathon at the speed of a 50-yard dash,” LaCinda said. “We spend a great deal of time working with the missionaries and

the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“We also spend an equal amount of time waiting; waiting at stop lights; waiting for a Khmer word to come to our elderly brains; and waiting for the internet to resurrect.”

The language, rooted in ancient Asian languages Sanskrit and Pali, and with 80 characters, has been one of the challenges, despite the 40 hours of study with a returned missionary via Skype before leaving home. The missionaries are given nine weeks of intense language study before arriving, and usually master the language in about nine months.

“Not that they come to know every word, but it is remarkable that they communicate so well and understand most of what is said in less than a year,” LaCinda said, adding “the local residents are very impressed.”

When John and LaCinda try to speak in Khmer, it usually results in corrections with a smile.

“Every time we speak, we mix things up,” LaCinda said. “We were told by a Khmer member that they love it when we speak because they like our accents and our mistakes.”

John wishes he was fluent so that he could better communicate with everybody. He continues to spend time working on the language, while LaCinda has less time for it, as she is working on her dissertation at Northern Arizona University’s doctoral program in educational leadership for higher education.

Besides the language mix-ups, cultural blunders occur.

Recently, they attended a Khmer wedding celebration.

“The Khmer are exceedingly proficient at gathering a host of people for weddings, funerals and parties,” LaCinda said. “This pop-up party tent, in the middle of a dirt road in the middle of farmland, featured a bride and groom who changed outfits thrice, tables and chairs and a plethora of Khmer edibles.”

The wedding party and the guests were bedecked and bejeweled in beads and bows, she said. In true Khmer tradition,

the guests who are invited came with cash (the equivalent of $25 per guest) in a gold-embossed envelope to help pay for the edifice and the edibles.

“I have made many errors on this mission, and being under-dressed for an overdressed occasion is a faux pas with extraordinary consequences,” she said. “Next time, I will be appropriately adorned.”

As for the Cambodians, the Lewises find them “happy, helpful, resilient and resourceful.”

“We are so impressed with their ingenuity and their hard work. The way they move people, produce and products around the country is amazing,” LaCinda said.

They have done some sightseeing, which included visiting the burial sites known as the Killing Fields. About 2 million died during the 1970s when the radical community party, Khmer Rouge, was in power.

“It was April in 1975, I was preparing to go to the Jr. Prom with John Lewis, he was my first official date after I turned 16,” LaCinda recalled. “I was concerned about what to wear, while millions of Cambodians were concerned about where to flee.”

They also undertook a seven-hour tour of the Angkor Archaeological Park, the world’s largest religious monument, in the area where Cambodian kings ruled from the 9th through the 15th centuries.

The most famous is the Angkor Wat, or temple, which is the main draw for 50 percent of the country’s tourists.

The Lewises are also struck by the torrential rain, which lasts from June to October, and changes the flow of the Tonle Sap River and fills the basin’s rice fields.

The monsoons are muggy: “sweet and sweaty is the work,” goes the saying in Phnom Penh.

They are happy they came from Arizona’s climate, which seems to have prepared them well.

“I love the billowing clouds and the blue skies. Parts of every day, the sun shines through beautiful and picturesque clouds,” LaCinda said. “The hottest time of the year is still to come, so we may have a different opinion come March.”

54

NEIGHBORS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Intel, Girl Scouts, others boost spirits of homebound residents

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Managing Editor

Many homebound residents in Chandler, Gilbert and Queen Creek are starting this New Year on a brighter note after Intel employees, a Girl Scout troop, a motorcycling group and other volunteers delivered gifts to them.

Intel’s employees provided more than 200 wrapped gifts to homebound neighbors last month for the Christmas season. Girl Scout Troop 1661, About Care Board of Directors members and About Care volunteers played the roles of elves and brought the gifts to the residents. A group from the Christian Motorcyclists Association also helped deliver presents.

The Girl Scout troop provided more than 30 gifts to residents who’re clients of About Care that live in Page Commons, a senior citizens housing facility in Gilbert.

The father of one of the Girl Scouts dressed up as Santa Claus with the group, which sang Christmas carols as it walked through the halls and dropped off gifts to residents.

“We are so fortunate to have Intel provide us over 200 wrapped presents this year!” About Care CEO Ann Marie McArthur said. “They are so giving and generous. Most of our clients would not get a gift without this donation.”

McArthur said a man who was a recipient of the present called her and had “tears in his voice” thanking her for the gift.

“He wanted me to know how grateful he was for this gift,” McArthur said. “His wife of 51 years had just passed and he hadn’t been in the holiday spirit. One

June 2006. Barbara, who had been the executive director of Neighbors Who Care, founded the organization when she discovered no services existed for homebound people in Chandler. After forming About Care, the Bradleys expanded the services to Gilbert residents and the organization branched out to Queen Creek in 2016 with the support of the Town of Queen Creek, Rock Point Church and many grants.

The About Care team still aims to empower people in Chandler, Gilbert and Queen Creek to live independently.

Its mission is to provide caring, compassionate support services using trained volunteers with special concern for elderly Special to SanTan Sun News and physically-challenged Residents like Thelma and Roger Moleri, foreground, received Christmas gifts because of donations from Intel employees homebound people. The last month through efforts coordinated by the nonprofit organization About Care. goal is to help support and encourage independent of our volunteers stayed with him and support of aging in place. living by helping neighbors remain chatted and provided him his gift. He The Intel workers bought the gifts was just thrilled and appreciative and using their own money and had parties to in their homes with dignity and selfcouldn’t thank us enough. Thank you to wrap them before bringing them to About respect. About Care services are free and they depend on grants and donations.

Intel for their overwhelming generosity.

Care’s office. The motorcyclists rode Volunteers are always needed. The We were also fortunate to receive 20 together to about six different houses nonprofit organization is part of the large Christmas Bags from Home Instead! to spread the tidings of joy, and the Arizona State Charitable Tax Credit for Thank you Home Instead.”

Girl Scouts delivered the gifts the Intel the Working Poor, so people can make Home Instead Senior Care is a network workers provided. tax-deductible donations to help it. of franchises specializing in non-medical About Care is a nonprofit organization Information: aboutcare.org in-home care for elderly people in that Barbara and Buzz Bradley started in

pean Comfort and Style o r u E

We are a family owned-business that specializes in Euro-comfort shoes with a flair for fashion. Most assume that comfort can’t be cute, but that’s just not the case! Come visit our new unique comfort boutique so you can understand why, “Nothing is as thrilling as a shoe that looks and feels good!”

MEN’S & WOMEN’S COMFORT SHOES, COME SEE THE NEW FALL & WINTER STYLES! Keen, Dansko, Josef Seibel, Olukai, Romika, Fly London, Birkenstock, Merrell, Antelope, Reiker, Miz Mooz, Clarks, Klog, Arcopedico, Alegria, Baggallini, Taos, Gabor, Ahnu and Big Buddha.

see you soon!

480-275-2898 • 11 W. Boston Street, #2

• Historic Downtown Chandler

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

(Kimberly Carrillo/GSN Staff Photographer)

Madison Ringgold’s grandmother, Elizabeth Jackson, helps other kids make the bracelets during visits to various schools and youth organizations.

NEIGHBORS

55

(Kimberly Carrillo/GSN STaff Photographer)

Madison J Ringgold of Gilbert is only 11, but her idea to have kids make bracelets has become a nonprofit as other children respond enthusiastically to her notion that the bracelets are a sign of encouragement and hope to other kids.

Kyrene student’s bracelet project a big hit

BY CECILLA CHAN Staff Writer

Madison J Ringgold said stringing together a bunch of colorful plastic beads into a bracelet was meant to cheer up one of her friends.

“She would come to school sad,” the 11-year-old Gilbert resident said. “I just want to make kids happy and make the world a better place.”

That act of kindness five years ago by Madison J, a Kyrene Middle School student, has turned into the Happy Bracelet Project, which became a nonprofit a year ago this month.

It has grown from a family effort of making and giving away bracelets to put a smile on children’s faces to a community one, according to her grandmother, Elizabeth Jackson.

“It’s children making bracelets for other children,” Jackson said. “We’re teaching community service. Some have never done it. I tell them it’s a way of giving back.”

Jackson, whose background includes licensed child-care provider and after-school project director, wants to expand the group’s reach into schools and use the program for character-building.

With problems such as school violence and bullying, she believes having children make the bracelets would help calm them down and refocus their attention to helping others.

The kids get to come together, socialize and at each venue, she brings up a topic for discussion such as bullying, according to Jackson.

One day last week, Jackson and her family members – daughter Elana Ringgold, Madison J and her younger sister, Morgan – traveled to the Boys and Girls Clubs of East Valley in Gilbert to make bracelets with fifth- to seventh-graders.

The group works with kids age 5-18.

“Today’s bracelets will go to Los Angeles’ downtown Skid Row,” said Jackson, who put out the supplies along with slips of paper on each table with words such as “patience,” “kindness” and “love.”

“We will make 300 bracelets that will go to children who are homeless and less fortunate.”

She asked the kids to think of the recipients as they crafted the Happy Bracelets. She tells them the bracelets are a sign of encouragement, hope and love to someone in need.

“When you make these bracelets, you are making bracelets for kids living on the streets,” she said. “We can’t provide a home for them, but we can provide a smile.”

The Happy Bracelet Project has a number of sponsors, including Chick-fil-A in Gilbert, which gave gift cards for the group to hand out to the children who help make the bracelets, said Jackson, who also brings snacks for the participants.

The group also has received some donations such as $1,000 from the Enterprise Foundation, which helps pay for the supplies and shipping costs, Jackson added.

Jackson was at the same Boys and Girls Clubs last December, when the children made bracelets for their counterparts in Puerto Rico. Hurricane Maria had pummeled the island, destroying the Boys and Girls Club building there.

Happy Bracelets have been donated to Ronald McDonald House, Casa De Los Ninos, Samaritan’s Purse, Gospel Rescue Mission and children from three elementary schools in Houston, Texas affected

by Hurricane Harvey.

Bracelets also have gone to Luke Air Force Base’s Airman Family Readiness Center for children who have a parent who

I just want to make “ kids happy and make the world a better place.”

– Madison J Ringgold

has been deployed or is actively serving.

Jackson said the group was helping children on Feb. 14, 2017 make bracelets when news broke of the mass shooting at a high school in Parkland, Florida.

The children made 500 Happy Bracelets that were shipped to the students at that school, Jackson said.

She estimated the project has to date made and donated at least 5,000 Happy Bracelets.

The next project involves finding children, especially those who play soccer, so they can make bracelets for the members of the boys’ soccer team who were trapped 17 days in north Thailand before rescue, according to Jackson.

For Mariah Willis, 10, of Mesa, it was her first time making the Happy Bracelets.

It was fulfilling, she said, “because you are making them for the poor.”

It also was fulfilling for Madison J. “I think it’s pretty amazing that one bracelet turned into all of this and there are happy kids all over the world and not just in Arizona,” she said.

To help the Happy Bracelet Project buy materials: gofundme.com/happybracelet.

Facelift $92 Guaranteed!

Take Years Off Your Looks

facercise

• No surgery or chemicals • Called “Hollywood’s best kept secret” • Works better than any wonder cream you’ve ever tried

“Bend’s Times Arrow the Other Way” NY Times

Compare & Decide Facelift $15,000 Lasts 10 Years Fillers & Botox $800 Lasts 1 Year Facercise $92 - Lasts a Lifetime (Class $49 DVD $43) “The Best $92 I Ever Spent!” KL

Join Us to Learn Facercise & Enjoy a Gourmet Dessert

Clocks are required by the manufacturer to be oiled every two years and cleaned every five to seven years.

Have YOU forgotten about your CLOCK? If you have not had your clock serviced, you may be damaging the gears, pinions and plates in your clock!

This picture reflects dust, dirt and oil build up on a clock movement not serviced within seven years. Oils break down and collect dirt much like the oil in your car engine breaks down. If not serviced, this causes excess wear on the parts.

$5.99

Watch Battery & Installation

Limit 1. Excludes lithium batteries. With ad.

Restrictions apply

Cash price. Exp. 1-19-19

ConniesJewelryGalleryAndClockShop.com

480-883-3320

1900 W. Germann Suite #15 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10a.m.-6p.m. Sat. 10a.m.-4p.m.

Repairs Done On Premises

NEXT TO OREGANO’S & B.L.D. CORNER OF DOBSON AND GERMANN AT THE PECOS SHOPS

Jan 11th Fri - Sun City West FDN, 14465 RH Johnson Blvd Sun City West 10-11; 12-1; 2-3 Jan 12th Sat - Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 S. Sun Lakes Blvd, Sun Lakes AZ 2:30-3:30 Friendship Rm Jan 13th Sun - Sun City West FDN, 14465 RH Johnson Blvd Sun City West 2-3; 4-5

Taught by Kathryn Parslow PhD Certified Clinical Nutritionist, Certified Facercise Expert, Nationally Published Author, Media Personality

FOR MORE INFO CALL

235.223.7492

56

NEIGHBORS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Teens to merge creative talents, publish magazine

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Managing Editor

East Valley teens eager to offer their peers places to express their creativity are planning a large event where fashion, live music and visual artwork will merge next week in Chandler.

QNDP is holding La Mode, a gathering that will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. on Jan. 11 at NOAH’S Event Venue at 2100 E. Yeager Drive. An after-party will be held after the main event winds down.

The QNDP Team, made up of about 18 diverse East Valley teenagers, also publishes an online youth culture magazine, QNDP, posting fresh articles every week.

The teens at QNDP also have held a launch party, luau and open mic night to bring youths together for networking and camaraderie, along with creative expression.

Three fashion shows with clothes designed and sewn by East Valley teens, as well as at least one live band, a deejay and a visual arts display for any type of artwork will be part of La Mode, Damijah Carter, 17, outreach director for the QNDP Events Team, said.

Several vendors will sell clothes, coffee and other items at the event, and Floridino’s Pizza & Pasta will cater the gathering. The goal is to draw 200 people to the event. Satyr Entertainment is sponsoring La Mode.

“It’s just very cool to connect with other students in the East Valley,” Damijah said. “It’s just really about networking and meeting different types of people.”

Special to SanTan Sun News

QNDP Website

Chandler High senior Damijah Carter hopes La Mode will be “eye-opening.”

The band Belaganas performs at the QNDP luau in September in Chandler. QNDP is a magazine produced by East Valley teens, who also produce events to bring together youths.

Damijah, a senior at Chandler High School, said he hopes La Mode will be “eye-opening” and “continues on social and unifying experiences of teens in the East Valley.”

The Student Body spirit commissioner at Chandler High, Damijah is also student president of the Arizona Association of Student Councils.

He said he enjoys planning events and contacting businesses to seek support.

Damijah said the Chandler Chamber of Commerce has been very helpful with QNDP planning events, as well.

Christian Weninger, CEO/president of QNDP, is the son of state Rep. Jeff

Weninger and a student at Hamilton High School. Rylee Hanson, the QNDP creative director, is a Perry High School senior.

“I love the event planning side,” Damijah said. “It’s a lot of blood, sweat, tears.”

But seeing people enjoy the events “makes the whole thing worthwhile,” he added.

The launch party for QNDP, which began as an entity in January, drew about 50 people to a Chandler home. Around 50 to 60 people came to a QNDP luau in a home’s backyard in September.

The open mic night attracted about 30 to 40 people who performed poetry and rapped, as well as sang and played guitar

and ukulele at Grace Records in SanTan Village in Gilbert in November.

QNDP’s magazine is “very youth-targeted” and has articles, photos and videos on arts and culture, current events and other issues, Damijah said.

He said the QNDP team would like to also publish a print magazine someday that would be distributed in high schools.

Any teens who want to attend La Mode need to buy a ticket for $25 each ahead of time. Tickets are available at eventbrite.com/e/qndp-la-mode-tickets-53666726624 QNDP’s magazine can be found at qndpmagazine.com.

got skin? Of Course! We all do.

Katherine Lim Quan, MD

Jill McKenzie, MD

VALLEY SKIN CANCER SURGERY

480.214.0388 | vscsaz.com

Rosemary Geary, MD • Julie Silver, PA-C Ryan Falsey, MD, PhD • Yuliya Schoenling, PA-C Michelle Jeffries, DO • Sara Pickett, PA-C Tamara Casillas, FNP-C • Cassandra Shore, PA-C Ruth Irealnd, FNP-C • Wendy Ridenour, PA-C

Medical Dermatology Cosmetic Dermatology Surgical Skin Care Treatment

480.821.8888 | evderm.com

1100 South Dobson Road, #223 • Chandler, AZ 85286 (The PRESIDIO, North Building, 2nd Floor)

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

NEIGHBORS

57

Family found help to meet autism’s challenge

BY MOLLY ARRIAGA Guest Writer

Our daughter, Alexandra, enjoys spending time on the computer and her iPad. She loves musicals, watching videos on YouTube and holds a special place in her heart for the Gilmore Girls.

She loves her cheer class at USA Fitness in Gilbert and enjoys attending church on Sundays. And while that might sound pretty typical for a 17-year-old, high school sophomore, our lives are anything but typical.

Alex was diagnosed with autism in 2012.

The initial diagnosis consisted of big words like pervasive development disorder, developmental dyspraxia, sensory integration disorder and speech apraxia.

The years leading up to her diagnosis presented more questions than answers and frankly, it was wonderful to finally be able to put a name to it. Finding resources to support the diagnosis proved challenging, but we were determined to do what we had to do.

Our biggest challenges involved getting Alex out of bed and ready for school and encouraging her to try everyday morning tasks we knew she was capable of handling.

Every day was a struggle. A behavioral therapy called ABA Therapy was recommended, so we put ourselves on the wait list. Three years later, we were still waiting.

And then we discovered the Southwest Autism Center of Excellence (SACE), a collaborative effort of Southwest Behavioral & Health Services and Southwest Human Development, in 2017.

A psychologist who worked at SACE heard about Alex and reached out to offer counsel and support.

It changed our lives forever.

Joan, a psychologist with SACE, taught us to focus on Alex’s strengths. A visual learner, Alex excelled at working with and completing tasks on a picture schedule. A consistent and slow “hand-over-hand” approach coupled with a lot of praise soon had us on our way.

Motivation by praise and assuring Alex could tackle and accomplish hard things helped our daughter’s confidence bloom. Alex now enjoys doing things independently and gets annoyed when I try to help her. We still have to make sure things are done correctly, but what a difference from a year ago.

Since communication with the school can be difficult, as public schools often lack the resources needed to work with and champion someone like Alex, the fact that SACE directly interacts with her school is a real blessing. The SACE psychologist also provides access to resources for times outside of school and on the weekends.

Alex’s inability to communicate her needs and wants can be a challenge. Sometimes she comes home from school with watery eyes, holding an ice bag or dressed in a completely different set of clothes.

She can’t communicate what she feels or when something hurts. It’s hard and like any parent would feel, my heart struggles. Because of the helpful techniques and support provided by SACE, we looked into verbal therapy and are now working with Alex, motivating her to use her words.

The treatment plan really seems to be working, and I look forward to the day when she can verbally share her feelings.

Today, Alex basks in the applause her team receives when they perform on center court. Her confidence is at an all-time high and we have a team of people to

Special to the San Tan Sun News

Alexandra Arriaga enjoys many of the things that other 17-year-olds enjoy despite the challenges of autism.

Special to the San Tan Sun News

Alexandra Arriaga, second from right, poses with her parents and sister during a happy moment at home. Alex, who has been diagnosed as autistic, and her family found help with her condition through the Southwest Autism Center of Excellence.

thank for it. She has learned to trust and work with other kids and has really come out of her shell.

Alex enjoys going to her Life Skills class.

It’s a social group of kids her age that teach the independent living skills they may need at home and in the community. She also enjoys going to church on Sundays.

I’m so thankful for the people that have taken the time to know and accept Alex.

Having a child with different abilities is a special gift. She is aware of her surroundings and is a great judge of character. She

has taught us simple things like unconditional love, faith, hope, patience and how not to take life for granted. She lives simply, doesn’t ask for anything and is happy most of the time.

Our goal for Alex’s future is simple. We want her to be accepted and self-sufficient to the best of her abilities. We want her to graduate from high school and secure a job so she can contribute. Most of all, we want her to be safe, happy and loved.

There are still some things we can’t do that most families do on a regular basis.

We can’t just get up and go or do things spontaneously. Every event takes careful planning and letting Alex know ahead of time what is planned for the day.

We haven’t been on vacation on a plane since Alex was born, which is why we are participating in Wings for Autism this month. It’s a wonderful program that offers young people with autism spectrum disorders and other intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD), and their families, a unique “airport rehearsal” designed to ease the uncertainties and discomfort they may feel when traveling by airplane.

If you have a child with autism, it’s important to know that you are not alone.

There are resources and services available to help you. SACE has been an amazing resource for our family.

- Molly Arriaga and her family live in Mesa.

Got News?

Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@timespublications.com

Where to turn for support…

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 1 in 71 children in Arizona are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a biologically-based neurodevelopmental disorder. It is defined as delayed social communication skills, social interactions, and restricted, repetitive behaviors (RRB).

October marks the first-year anniversary of the Southwest Autism Center of Excellence (SACE), a collaborative effort of Southwest Behavioral & Health Services and Southwest Human Development as part of Mercy Care’s Mercy 360 Community Initiative.

SACE’s philosophy of serving Au-

tism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) members throughout their life span promotes high quality community-based services that are tailored to each member and family – delivering services in the most appropriate setting, in a timely fashion and in accordance with best practices, while respecting the members and family’s cultural heritage.

The centers coordinate care and services across multiple systems to ensure families receive effective and efficient care. These services include: • Diagnostic screening for ASD and developmental screening • Comprehensive team assessments • Evidenced-based, intervention services

to address medical, developmental, and mental health/behavioral needs associated with or impacted by ASD There are four ASD Centers of Excellence across the Valley to assist families faced with Autism spectrum disorders.

• Southwest Human Development (Birth to 5): 2850 N. 24th St., Phoenix, AZ 85008 • Southwest Behavioral & Health Services (6 Through Adulthood): 11221 N. 28th Drive, Building E, Phoenix, AZ 85029 • S outhwest Behavioral & Health Services (6 Through Adulthood): 1255 W. Baseline Road, #138, Mesa, AZ 85202 • Touchstone Health Services: 3602 E. Greenway Road, Suite 102, Phoenix, AZ 85032

58

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

We want to see you smile!

Providing personalized general dentistry services, including cosmetic and restorative procedures, in a modern, caring and professional environment overlooking relaxing views of Historic San Marcos Golf Course.

480-855-7888

$

GET A SMART PHONE FOR

0 DOWN

*

with AT&T Next Every YearSM and AT&T Next® *Req’s well-qualified credit & elig. svc. Tax due at sale. Limits & restr's apply.

Hdouglasdentistry.com

Hilarry A. Douglas,

D.D.S., P.C.

Family Dentistry 575 W. Chandler Blvd., Ste. 223 (Chandler Blvd. between Alma School Rd. and Arizona Ave.)

Sun Life Center for Women Menopause Incontinence Robotic Surgery

Choose your new smartphone. (Tax due at time of sale.)

2.

Choose your installment and AT&T wireless plans.1 (The retail price of your new smartphone is divided into installment payments and added to your wireless bill.)

Pay 24 installment payments to fulfill the agreement.

Upgrade every year.2

AT&T Next

Pay 30 installment payments to fulfill the agreement.

Upgrade every two years.2

3. Make an optional down payment at the time of purchase to lower your installment payments.

1 If you cancel your wireless service plan, your remaining installment balance becomes due.

2 Upgrade eligible once 50% of device cost is paid on AT&T Next Every Year and 80% with AT&T Next. Requires trade-in of financed smartphone or one of the same make/model in fully functional/good physical condition.

844-281-7391

Onsite Ultrasound Hablamos Español

phone (480) 307-9477 SunLifeFamilyHealth.org

1.

AT&T Next Every Year

Delivering at Dignity Chandler Regional

Birth Control Prenatal Postpartum

HOW IT WORKS

C HA NDLER OFFICE 480-307-9477 655 S. Dobson Rd. #201

AT&T Business Customers: Please contact your AT&T sales representative for more information or call 866.9att.b2b (866.928.8222).

AT&T NEXT OR AT&T NEXT EVERY YEAR: Credit approval required. For smartphones only. Tax on sales price due at sale. Requires 0% APR monthly installment agreement and eligible service. Divides sales price into monthly installments. AT&T Next: 30-month agreement with trade-in to upgrade when 80% of sales price is paid off. AT&T Next Every Year: 24-month agreement with trade-in to upgrade when 50% of sales price is paid off. $0 down: Requires well-qualified credit. Limit as low as 2 smartphones at $0 down. Down payment: May be required and depends on a variety of factors. Down payment if required will be either 30% of sales price or a dollar amount ranging from currently $0 to $600 (amount subject to change, and may be higher). You may choose to pay more upfront. Remainder of sales price is divided into 30 or 24 monthly installments. Service: Eligible postpaid voice and data service (minimum $45 per month after AutoPay and Paperless billing discount for new customers. Pay $55 per month until discount starts within 2 bills. Existing customers can add to eligible current plans which may be less) is required and extra. If service is canceled, remaining installment agreement balance is due. Examples: $749.99 sales price on AT&T Next (30-month) with $0 down is $25 per month, with $225 down (30%) is $17.50 per month, or with $600 down is $5 per month. On AT&T Next Every Year (24-month) with $0 down is $31.25 per month, with $225 down (30%) is $21.88 per month, or with $600 down is $6.25 per month. Activation or upgrade fee: Up to $45/line. Waiver of fee subject to change. Restocking Fee: Up to $45.

Limits: Purchase limit applies. Eligibility,device, line and financing limits & other restr’s apply. Upgrade with eligible trade-in: Requires payment of percentage of sales price (50% or 80%), account in good standing, trade-in of financed device (or one of the same make and model) in good physical and fully functional condition through the AT&T Next or AT&T Next Every Year trade-in program (excludes AT&T trade-in program where you receive an instant credit or AT&T promotion card), and purchase of new eligible smartphone with qualified wireless service. After upgrade, unbilled installments are waived. See att.com/next and your Retail Installment Agreement for full details. GENERAL WIRELESS SERVICE: Subject to wireless customer agreement (att.com/wca). Services are not for resale. Deposit: May be required. Limits: Purchase and line limits apply. Prices vary by location. Credit approval, fees, monthly and other charges, usage, eligibility and other restrictions per line may apply. See att.com/additional charges for more details on other charges. Pricing and terms are subject to change and may be modified or terminated at any time without notice. Coverage and service are not available everywhere. You get an off -net (roaming) usage allowance for each service. If you exceed the allowance, your services may be restricted or terminated. Other restrictions apply and may result in service termination. For info on AT&T network management policies see att.com/broadbandinfo. © 2018 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. Owners of all marks retain their rights.

RTP SF T 0218 5181 D-Sa

We accept most insurance plans including AHCCCS & Medicare.

If you are uninsured, ask about our sliding fee discount.

The Beginning Of A Great New Year!

MORE THAN A FABRIC STORE!

Designing residential home interiors in the greater metro Phoenix area for over 20 years.

By The Yard is open seven days a week with home decorating fabrics in stock and a large library of Fabric and Trims. Our experienced designers custom create your window treatments, upholstery, or bedding through our in-house workroom. By The Yard provides quality craftsmanship and product innovation.

Your interiors can be custom!

New Vistas www.newvistasaz.com 480-963-2313

CALL NOW FOR YOUR COMPLIMENTARY IN-HOME CONSULTATION.

480-831-1800 1761 E. Warner Rd., Ste. A-10, Tempe • www.bytheyard.com

59

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Arts & Entertainment

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Broadway, honky-tonk fill arts center series “Best of Broadway” on Feb. 24 will be the next in the Showtune Series and will give the audience a chance to hear four powerhouse singers and a 10-piece orchestra performing dynamic, classic songs from Andrew Lloyd Weber, Rodgers and Hammerstein and other composers.

That concert also will feature some more current tunes from the musicals “Mamma Mia!” and “Jersey Boys.”

Kristen Drathman, artistic director of Camp Kids programs at Chandler Center for the Arts, will be one of the stars singing in the show.

She has performed in venues around the world including the 1992 Summer Olympic Games in Barcelona, Spain and the Brooklyn Conservatory Summer Opera Festival.

The fun songs will continue with “Let the Good Times Roll,” a musical trip from Memphis to New Orleans showcasing the

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Managing Editor

Popular songs featured on Broadway, honky-tonks and theaters around the country known for stirring up fun memories will be performed in a series at Chandler Center for the Arts starting later this month.

The Showtune Series package will deliver shows Sunday afternoons at the arts center at 250 N. Arizona Ave. The shows all start at 3 p.m.

The first in the series, “Remember Patsy Cline,” will feature lauded singer Monica Heuser portraying the renowned singer and performing her popular songs on Jan. 20.

The country singer helped found the Grand Ole Opry and Nashville sound of the 1950s and 60s with her iconic hits including “Crazy,” “I Fall to Pieces” and “Your Cheating Heart.” A live country band will accompany Heuser.

Chandler Center for the Arts

Monica Heuser portrays iconic singer Patsy Cline. She will perform in “Remember Patsy Cline” Jan. 20 at Chandler Center for the Arts, as part of the Showtunes Series.

greatest hits of blues, country, Dixieland and jazz on March 10.

Jimmy Travis and The Delta Show Band will bring the audience to the land where music is king with songs including “When the Saints Go Marching In,” “Blueberry Hill” and “Hey Good Lookin.’”

Michelle Mac Lennan, general manager of the Chandler Center for the Arts, said she believes audiences will feel nostalgic watching the Showtune Series shows.

Another benefit is the matinee performances, which are ideal for senior citizens, who often like to come to the arts center in the afternoons, Mac Lennan said.

“They’re geared to a more senior demographic,” she said. “Ticket prices are very affordable for the series. We’re just trying to broaden our theatrical offerings.

We did some research and found people really love musicals and Broadway and theater. I think it’s a nice chance to be together in a good, family setting, enjoy music that uplifts your spirit. It just feels good.”

Package ticket prices are $69 or $99, which includes admission to the three shows. People can also buy tickets for individual performances. Information: chandlercenter.org

Local financial advisor’s investment pays off in novel

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Managing Editor

A longtime financial advisor with a passion for history and love of sci-fi is thrilled his investment in writing has paid off in the form of his first novel.

Howard Gershkowitz, 62, a Chandler resident for 19 years, wrote “The Operator,” a fictional novel set in Prescott that involves time travel, the economy and romance. Independent publishing company All Things That Matter Press published it.

Gershkowitz has worked in the financial services industry for 34 years and is a financial advisor in Scottsdale. Born in New York City, he earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey but after getting a job in engineering decided it wasn’t the right field for him.

Prior to moving to Arizona, he also owned an engraving business in New York for a few years and then reestablished the engraving company, which he owned with his wife, Lisa, and another business partner, and ran for several years in Chandler.

“Writing is what I hope to be my next career,” Gershkowitz said. “I’ve always journaled. I’ve always written poetry. I always wanted to be a writer, but I knew I had to earn a living. My son works with me. He’s also my best friend. He and I talk about everything. On my 55th birthday I said, ‘If I don’t start writing soon, I may never get it done.’”

He said his son, Robert Gershkowitz, a financial planner, recommended writing

Lisa Gershkowtiz

Author Howard Gershkowitz met with people at the Mesa Book Festival last month. The 19-year Chandler resident recently wrote his first book, “The Operator,” a fictional novel set in Prescott involving time travel, the economy and romance.

classes. The determined Howard has taken classes at community colleges and Arizona State University’s Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing, as well as in workshops around the country.

He juggles writing in between his fulltime job and spending time with Lisa, Robert and his two grandchildren: Oliver, 10; and Emmery, 3, kids to Robert and Robert’s wife, Darcy. Howard typically wakes up by 4:30 a.m, writes for an hour and a half, and then again at 2 p.m. after

the stock market closes.

He usually holes up in his garage, which is converted to a writing studio, or a Starbucks in Chandler.

“People told me I have a natural talent for it,” he said. “Coming up with ideas for stories and poetry and even novels isn’t a problem. You need to be able to work on characterization and the plot.”

Howard has been writing for more than seven years but got inspired to write “The Operator” in January 2015

when he and Lisa visited Hassayampa Inn in Prescott, where they saw an old switchboard.

He said the hotel “is rumored to be haunted” and imagined what it would be like if he awakened in 1929 and met a character named Talia Sanders, a hotel switchboard operator.

The main character, Harold, brings his wife, Laura, on vacation to Prescott and gets into what Howard called a “squirmhole,” a term he invented to mean a method of time travel without breaking any laws of physics.

In the book, Harold travels back to 1929, where he meets and has an affair with Talia and the two try to stop the Great Depression from happening.

However, the author said Harold wakes up in the present and realizes nothing has changed other than Talia “invested appropriately after the market crashed.”

Harold also learns Talia left him with a billion-dollar fortune, along with instructions on how to stop another national financial collapse.

Harold must deal with Talia’s son, who will do anything to get control of the money, and he must find his way through a political world in Washington, where he crosses paths with a dangerous power broker who has his own agenda.

The saying that art imitates life is partly true with “The Operator.” Howard said the character Laura is based on his wife and that Talia reminds him of her when she was younger.

Howard had already written two other books which have not been published yet, but said “The Operator” came together See

NOVEL on page 61

ARTS 60

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Film festival to feature local, international movies SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Movie buffs will be able to indulge in many films made around the world at the Chandler International Film Festival later this month.

The festival will feature screenings of more than 200 new films Jan. 17-21 at the new Flix Brewhouse, 1 W. Chandler Blvd., in downtown Chandler.

The festival will celebrate movies’ ability to bring together filmmakers and participants from around the world.

The Chandler International Film Festival has partnered with the City of Chandler to advance diversity in the community.

The film festival will feature numerous, back-to-back events where attendees can eat, drink, socialize and walk from screenings to workshops, parties, discussion panels, film expos and other gatherings in downtown Chandler.

Filmmakers will be linked to buyers in a professional film market and expo as well as in educational workshops leading film industry professionals will offer.

The work of “SanTan Sun News” publisher emeritus Laurie Fagen of Chandler will be part of the festival after the SanTan Sun News publisher emeritus took time off from writing crime fiction novels to write, direct and produce four film shorts.

Her film “Time’s Up: She Said, He Heard,” about sexual harassment, will be screened at the Chandler International Film Festival. The film was shot at QuartHaus in downtown Chandler.

“Time’s Up: She Said, He Heard” received an Award of Recognition: Film Short at the Best Shorts Festival.

Another film Fagen wrote, produced

Special to SanTan Sun News

“SanTan Sun News” publisher emeritus Laurie Fagen wrote, directed and produced a film, “Time’s Up: She Said, He Heard,” which attendees can watch at the Chandler International Film Festival.

Cyndee Chaffee

Andrea Hickey, left, portrays “Julie,” the employee of “Bob,” played by William Connor, in “Time’s Up: She Said, He Heard,” a film shot at QuartHaus in downtown Chandler.

and directed, called “Like Breathing,” received an Award of Recognition: Public Service Programming/PSA from the Best Shorts Festival. “Like Breathing” examines people’s need for art.

“Time’s Up: She Said, He Heard” also won a special mention in the Global Shorts international short film festival.

Fagen, who lives in Fox Crossing, worked with her son, Devon Hancock of Tempe, as well as a local crew and actors.

She and Hancock also made “L.N. Pane, P.I.” a trailer for Fagen’s first crime fiction novel, “Fade Out.”

“Like Breathing” was also filmed in downtown Chandler, at Sibley’s West: The Chandler and Arizona Gift Shop on South San Marcos Place with a cast of over a dozen people. “L.N. Pane, P.I.” was shot in a private home in Chandler. A fourth Fagen short film, called “Me, Too,” was filmed in a north Phoenix office.

“It was fun jumping back into the world of production in which I spent many years after my broadcast reporting days,” Fagen said.

“And working with my very talented son, who shot, edited, ran audio, created original music and much more was so gratifying.”

The opening night film will be “Under the Eiffel Tower,” which stars Matt Walsh and Judith Godrèche. “Under the Eiffel Tower” is about a character named Stuart who is going through a mid-life crisis.

As he is desperate to find something more in life, he tags along on his best friend’s family vacation to Paris. Then Stuart proposes to his friend’s 24-year-old daughter, Rosalind, as they are standing under the Eiffel Tower.

The festival will kick off with a redcarpet ceremony at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 17.

Feature films, best experimental short films, best horror short films, best Arizona films and a variety of other movies will be shown over the five-day festival.

Information: chandlerfilmfestival.com.

MADISON AVENUE S A L O N & DAY S PA

PHOENIX • CHANDLER • www.spamadison.com

In Celebration of 2019, Receive

19% OFF Any Service

Offer is subject to change, based on availability, cannot be combined with any other offer and must present offer at time of purchase. Offer is for 1 service only.

Certain conditions may apply. Offer valid until January 31, 2019.

@spamadisonave @madisonbeautycollection www.spamadison.com www.madisonbeautycollection.com

Foothills

4910 E. Chandler Blvd.

Phoenix, AZ 85048 480.759.3308

Fulton Ranch

4955 S. Alma School Rd. Chandler, AZ 85248 480.621.7703

Madison Beauty Collection 3431 W. Frye Rd. Chandler, AZ 85226 480.782.0277

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

NOVEL

ARTS

61

from page 59

smoothly for him.

“I had some excellent assistance from various authors,” he said. “I didn’t expect it honestly as soon as it came out.

Everyone I talked to said, ‘It’s gonna take you ten years.’ When I saw the first copy it was like having a baby. Literally it felt like that. Finally, it’s real. There are no words to describe it.”

One author he learned from was Steven James, a national best-selling novelist who held a novel workshop in Tennessee. Howard said participating in that workshop helped him “get over the hump.”

“Howard is an imaginative author who brings great detail and a sense of place to his work,” James said.

Howard also learned from Patrick Finn, residential faculty in English and creative writing at Chandler-Gilbert Community College. He took a class from Finn.

“What set Howard apart from many in the classroom was his curiosity and tenacity,” Finn said. “He wanted to know everything there was to know about writing fiction, and when he learned those qualities, he dedicated his imaginative efforts to bringing his stories to life on the page – draft after draft, until he got better and better.

“And that’s why he can now point to his own published book on the shelf.

Anyone who wants to write a book needs to follow Howard’s formula: you have to want it, and that want must manifest itself in a daily effort of hard work.”

Lisa Gershkowitz

Howard Gershkowitz

Left: Lisa Gershkowitz, wife of author Howard Gershkowitz, attended the Tempe Public Library Book Festival in November. Right: Howard Gershkowitz, left, catches up with high school friend, Chris Martorano, at Changing Hands Bookstore, where Howard signed copies of his first novel, “The Operator.”

Perhaps Howard’s biggest fans are his family members. Robert and Lisa are proud of him for writing and getting his novel published, as are their other family members.

“I am just super excited for him,” Lisa said. “I’m so glad that he was able to accomplish the goal that he set out to.

He’s just so excited about it, as is the entire family. It is a very interesting story.

He has quite the imagination, and it’s just something you don’t see out there every day. I’m anxious for a lot more people to get their hands on it.”

She is impressed Howard was able to find time to write the novel.

“That’s what everybody marvels at is that he’s been able to carve out that niche

of time that’s required for him to get this goal done,” Lisa said. “He’s been able to do that in and amongst all of his other obligations.”

Robert, 31, said his father is great at juggling multiple tasks at once.

“Obviously I’m very proud of what he’s done,” he said. “Certainly, since I’ve known him, he’s always got his hands in a couple areas. He was a business owner.

He’s always been an entrepreneur. I wouldn’t expect anything less. He’s one of the smartest people that I know. He’s a very persistent person. The story’s great and he’s always been into sci-fi. He’s always been into fiction. He touches on the financial universe … topics he’s lived and breathed.”

Robert said his son, Oliver, is fascinated that his grandfather wrote a book.

“Out of all the people that I think this has impacted the most has been my son,” he said. “He already had my dad as a hero.

Oliver is absolutely impacted the most by this.”

When coming to Howard’s book signings, Oliver has followed him around and “his eyes are just gigantic,” Robert said.

“The Operator” has five-star ratings on Amazon.com and on Goodreads.com.

“The Operator” is available at Changing Hands Bookstore at 6428 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe, and online at Amazon.com.

Artists’ predictions are focus of Vision Gallery exhibit

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Managing Editor

Chandler’s Vision Gallery will feature two artists whose diverse pieces will provide a glimpse of their vision of the future.

Vision Gallery will display “Futureland, Arizona: An Art Show” from Jan. 10 to Feb. 15 with a reception for artists Daniel Funkhouser and Sarah Hurwitz slated for 6-8 p.m. Jan. 11 at the gallery, 10 E. Chicago St. in the Chandler City Hall complex.

The vibrant, unusual mixed media artwork will include individual pieces the artists have created, as well as some artwork they have made together, said Peter Bugg, the city’s visual arts coordinator.

Bugg said Funkhouser and Hurwitz have a “similar approach to a lot of art making,” including using many reused materials. The two artists have created individual pieces including jewelry, clothes, paintings and drawings.

“Whether visitors choose to summit artificially formed future mountains, wander through mutant cacti species with a trusty field guide, or witness a beautiful sunset filtered through onetime-use plastic, ‘Futureland, Arizona’ provides a dynamic glimpse of the fate of the Valley,” Bugg said, adding: “It’s sort of trying to warn us of what things could look like if we don’t take care of the environment. It’s not going to be too negative. They approach things with humor and lighthearted.”

Funkhouser, who earned an art degree at Arizona State University, was featured in “Modern Luxury” magazine’s

That gallery, as well as its sister gallery at the Chandler Center for the Arts, shows fine arts representing over 300 regional artists, and is home to two Art-O-Mats in the city.

Exhibits are rotated regularly and are free to see at this nonprofit gallery supported by the Chandler Cultural Foundation. A portion of art sales are used to help the Vision Kids program, educational art workshops for youths taught Daniel Funkhouser by professional artists.

The works of artists Daniel Funkhouser and Sarah Hurwitz be on display as part of the “Futureland, Arizona: An Information: visiongallery.org Art Show” from Jan. 10 to Feb. 15 at Vision Gallery.

December issue as “The collaborator” in a story on Valley creatives.

Hurwitz earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts: painting and ceramics from the University of Colorado at Boulder and a master’s of fine arts degree in 2-D Design from the University of Arizona, according to her website.

At the “Futureland, Arizona: An Art Show,” the public will be able to pose at a selfie station with a backdrop of interesting things behind them.

Vision Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Daniel Funkhouser Mondays through Fridays The “Futureland, Arizona: An Art Show” will feature vibrant, unusual mixed media artwork created to illustrate and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturdays. Admission is free. two artists’ predictions of what will happen in the future. The artists are Daniel Funkhouser and Sarah Hurwitz, and some of the pieces will be ones they did together and others will be ones they made individually.

62

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

63

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Faith

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Year of joys, pains helps us understand purpose

BY RABBI IRWIN WIENER Guest Columnist

It hardly seems possible that another year is now history. Over the years, I have seen the goings and comings of so many, the joys and disappointment, the frustrations and rewards. And now they will become memories – some pleasant and some not.

All of us have shared many a laugh and for sure, shed many tears. Through it all we have endured.

Yes, we have all shared a great deal.

Some have witnessed tragedies and some occasions of joy.

Whether it was hospital visits or hospice attention or funerals or weddings, baby namings and anniversaries, we joined together as a community and participated in all the

milestones of life’s journey. We are surely destined to share so much more.

There is so much to be thankful for. We have life and health, for the most part.

Sure, we all have ailments and we certainly don’t hesitate to share the episodes of pain. But there are the friendships that remained strong and new ones that were developed. They are cherished friendships because they represent the very best in us.

The men and women who extend themselves on a daily basis blend together to minister to our needs.

And let us not forget God, who endows us with the ability to appreciate all that we have as a community.

Names of people who contribute to our effectiveness may never be known.

They are the unsung heroes of human capabilities. So, yes there are so many to thank as we wind down another year.

Each time I see gratefulness helps me

understand the value and purpose for which we were created.

My prayer, as we turn a new page in our chapter of togetherness, is that it will continue to be one of comfort and success. Let us all pray that the new year will bring contentment and that we will grow even closer as we continue our spiritual pilgrimage.

I extend my prayer to the men and women who serve our country here at home and on distant shores. May they all return home in peace and well-being.

And may they find the light of freedom burning even brighter than when they left because of their dedication and service. I offer the wish that all communities will continue to prosper and be united in friendship. I send all these prayers to you as we journey to destinations of comfort.

Enjoy the warmth of the comfort we offer during the cold, stark winter. There

is so much agony and pain in the world.

Hate has replaced civility. Accusations have surfaced that give us pause as we reflect on our behavior as a people and as a nation.

Perhaps 2019 will find us more in tune with each other so that the dream that became a reality 242 years ago, and is still a beacon to so many, will continue to flourish.

Let the legacy we leave enable those who follow to be able to say – “this they built for us.” Join with friends, family members and neighbors in the New Year to fulfill that commitment so that our future will be secure.

Stay warm, and stay healthy. We are here, will always be here, because God’s hand continues to lead us in the path of faith as determined by our ancestors Rabbi Dr. Irwin Wiener, DD, is national chaplain of Jewish War Veterans-USA and he is the spiritual leader of Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation.

New year offers new ways to appreciate God’s beauty

BY LYNNE HARTKE Guest Writer

“I can’t believe I left my headlamp at home,” I mumbled to myself as I snapped the leash on Mollie, my hiking companion for the morning. Little puffs of breath showed in the the car’s dome light in the 36-degree morning, one hour before sunrise at the Pima Canyon Trailhead on South Mountain.

A lone hoot of an owl joined the echoing calls of two coyotes as Mollie hunched next to my legs, unsure of herself in the enveloping gloom.

When my eyes adjusted to the darkness, we headed west toward the junction at Beverly Canyon on the way to the Ridgeline Trail. With only the gray outlines of saguaro, barrel and cholla

cacti in front of me, I found myself glancing over my shoulder again and again as the eastern horizon deepened from peach to tangerine to burnt sienna.

Each time I turned to gaze at the spreading dawn, my eyes had to adjust to the darkness at my feet as Mollie and I headed continually west.

Ten minutes before sunrise, the sky blazoned in a streak of red, layering the trail with golden light. The fuzzy berries and yellow flowers on the creosote bush appeared, as well as the edible orange berries of the Wolfberry.

Jets flew over Camelback Mountain to the north as I stopped to take a photo of a scorpion weed (phacelia), the purple flowering stems curled downward, earning the plant its nickname.

A hint of deep yellow caught my eye and I stepped closer to investigate. A poppy? Impossible. Poppies belonged

on desert trails in springtime, not winter.

Yet, in the distance, I saw not one golden flower, but dozens, the blooms closed tightly against the morning chill.

I gently opened a blossom. One. Two. Three. Four. The correct number of petals.

Still in doubt, I checked the leaves. Fernlike. Blueish-green.

Two white-haired hikers paused near to where I crouched on the ground.

“You okay?” the men asked, leaning on their trekking poles.

“Poppies,” I said, as if that was enough.

They nodded. “Noticed it too,” said the taller one.

“I’ve never seen poppies in December.”

The shorter one wiped his forehead.

“Lots of rain this fall.”

“Maybe that’s why.”

“Maybe.”

Satisfied, they headed down the trail, but I remained a bit longer surrounded by

wildflowers that grew simply because the conditions were right for the day, with no guarantee for tomorrow.

Last March I had hiked nine miles on an intentional poppy quest and had found only one bloom. Now, when I was not even looking, I discovered a hillside of them. I couldn’t help but think the new year held the promise of mysteries known and unknown, of adventures sought and spontaneous, and sometimes all a person can do is take a moment and celebrate.

So, I did.

He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV Lynne Hartke is the author of Under a Desert Sky and the wife of pastor and Chandler Mayor-elect Kevin Hartke. She blogs at lynnehartke.com.

Our vulnerability leads us to our greatest gift

BY REV. SUSAN WILMOT Guest Writer

“Arise, shine; for your light has come,” proclaims the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 60:1). That was probably rather a stretch for Isaiah’s audience after what they’d been through in exile.

For those who remained behind, it probably seemed like the darkness would have no end. Perhaps a few of us feel the same kind of worldly darkness pushing against the light of Christ within us at this time of year.

Just because the calendar has clicked over into a new year, the challenges we faced in 2018 haven’t magically disappeared, and are perhaps being exacerbated by financial hardships after our Christmas splurges.

“Arise, shine; for your light has come.” Isaiah speaks of the restoration and renewal of the covenant people, who are to be a light to the nations. Isaiah speaks of God’s promises fulfilled through the kind of peace and justice associated with God’s shalom, and the establishment of God’s kingdom. Isaiah’s prophetic words are again fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is the light of the world. He is the light that can never be overcome by darkness.

Even in a world that looks as if violence, greed and corruption have gained the upper hand, the kingdom of God is still here, alive and well, wherever the faithful gather and share God’s love in word and deed. We’re called to do our part in restoring hope, and encouraging one another. We can always find ways to reconcile strained or broken relationships, especially as the Christmas season winds down and family members once again go

their separate ways.

We always have the opportunity to give to those who are in need, sharing from our abundance. This is a great time of year to reveal God’s generosity to those who have little, or those who have no reason to feel hopeful or grateful to God. When love shines in our lives, it looks like hope, encouragement, reconciliation, generosity and gratitude, as well as loving-compassion and mercy.

Our hope is always in the Lord, and just like the Magi who followed the star to Bethlehem, we too can encounter the Lord. After their encounter with the Light of the World, the Magi leave on a new path, no doubt with new insights into God’s will for their lives.

With a little divine help, they apparently see right through Herod’s false claim to power (see Matthew 2:1-12). As followers of Jesus, we too expect to be changed by our daily encounters with

all God’s children who bear the face of Christ for us. What new path is the Lord revealing to you? What new ways of being in the world are you being called to embody?

“Arise, shine; for your light has come.” As we see repeatedly in Scripture, those who commit to God in faith must humbly acknowledge that power and prosperity are God’s gifts, to be used for God’s purposes. How do we feel about that truth after our Christmas indulgences?

Living in the world as we do, it’s easy to become arrogant, asserting our independence in thought, word and deed, and erroneously believing that we’re the source of our success. It’s also a path to spiritual death.

A path that most of us walk down from time to time, at least for a little See

WILMOT on page 64

FAITH 64

WILMOT

from page 63

while, before we reorient our lives again to God’s will and God’s ways.

As the body of Christ in the world, we try to seek and follow Jesus’ way, in humility and gratitude to God. It’s always easier said than done because it means allowing God to restore and renew our vulnerability. The world’s thesaurus tells us that vulnerability equates to being weak, helpless and defenseless.

Our ego protests mightily because

we’re well trained in the world’s dogeat-dog ways. Life teaches us to keep our defenses in place, ready to attack, whenever necessary. The world teaches us that there’s security and protection in acquiring power, wealth and material possessions.

We’ve got our work cut out for us to undo those lessons, to become and remain vulnerable enough to seek and live in Christ, knowing Christ’s constant coming and presence with us.

Vulnerability also means openness.

So that in faith, trust and obedience we willingly risk God’s way, despite the

almost overwhelming urge, born of fear, to assert our own will. As children of God, our power is God’s power, best used in service to the Lord.

The light of the world, Christ Jesus, our Lord, has come. Exploring what the light of Christ reveals is our mission for the season of epiphany. Isaiah shows us that faithful living expands God’s shalom, and builds God’s kingdom peace, justice and mutual prosperity.

We humbly bring our gifts to the Lord and follow His path to authentic life, whenever we share the abundance of

God’s love and compassion, healing and forgiveness. As C.S. Lewis writes, “Don’t shine so others can see you. Shine so that, through you, others can see Him.” Our vulnerability leads us to the greatest gift we’ll ever know, because it involves opening our hearts and minds to God’s will in Christ Jesus. A blessed New Year everyone!

The Rev. Susan E. Wilmot is vicar at St. James the Apostle Episcopal Church & Preschool, 975 E. Warner Road, Tempe. Susan can be reached at rector@stjamestempe.org or at 480-345-2686. Check out our website at stjamestempe.org.

Spiritual Connections

Gong Meditation and Yoga Nidra 7 to 8:30 p.m. third Wednesday Presented by Will Zecco, gong master. Bring yoga mat, blanket and pillow as desired. Love offerings will be accepted.

Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Road, Suite 102, Mesa 480-593-8798, interfaith-community.org

Grief Care 6:45 p.m. Wednesdays A place to come share your feelings or just listen to others as we try to navigate through our grief. You don’t have to do it alone.

Epiphany Lutheran Church, South Campus, old church building, 800 W. Ray Road, Room 325, Chandler, griefcareaz@gmail.com

“A Course in Miracles” with the Rev. Julianne Lewis 1 to 2:15 p.m. Wednesdays The weekly group is an interactive time of learning and sharing, appropriate for course beginners as well as longtime students of ACIM. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center 952 E. Baseline Road, Suite 102, Mesa 480-593-8798, interfaith-community.org

St. Mathew’s Episcopal Church 12 p.m. Healing and Eucharist service St. Mathew’s Episcopal Church 901 W. Erie St., Chandler 480-899-7386, saintmatthewschurch.org

Call ahead to confirm as details occasionally change after print.

If you have a recurring monthly support group or meeting to list in Spiritual Connections, email complete details to news@santansun.com.

MONDAYS

The Art of Parenting 7:30 p.m. Mondays Six-session course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute and presented by Rabbi Mendy Deitsch of Chabad of the East Valley, designed to help parents at all levels of Jewish knowledge develop their own parenting philosophies and techniques. Cost is $99.

Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler 480-855-4333, rabbi@chabadcenter.com

TUESDAYS

Silva Class and Meditation 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays Learn the Silva method with Lois Britland.

Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe 480-792-1800 Career Connectors 8:30 a.m. to noon, fourth Tuesday of month Nonprofit organization connecting professionals in career transition to highquality resources and hiring companies; each

event includes professional career speakers with presentations on relevant job search topics, three to four hiring companies, networking, resume help, career coaches, LinkedIn coaches and business portraits.

Central Christian Church, Gilbert Campus/ Student Center, 965 E. Germann Road, Gilbert 480-442-5806, careerconnectors.org Christian Business Networking Tri-City Chapter – Chandler, Tempe, Mesa 7:15 a.m. Tuesdays Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals.

Crackers and Co. Café, 535 W. Iron Ave., Mesa Maia, 480-425-0624, christianbusinessnetworking.com

WEDNESDAYS

Panic Healing 7 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday Receive a 15-minute energetic tuneup.

Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe 480-792-1800

Come, Worship the Lord

Praise Him

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Glorify His Name

THURSDAYS

Women’s Empowerment & Awakening 7 to 8:30 p.m. third Thursday Release negative beliefs.

Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe 480-792-1800 Empower Model for Men 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays The three-class series is taught by author Scott E. Clark and designed to offer practical wisdom and tools to help men shift into their higher consciousness, based on the sevenstep empower model detailed in Clark’s book, “Empower Model for Men.” Cost is $85.

Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe 480-792-1800

SATURDAYS

Spirit Night – Psychic Fair 4 to 8 p.m. third Saturday of each month The “Lightworkers” offer a wide range of services, including Reiki, facials, mediums, drumming, tarot, angel messages and more.

Services range from $20 to $30. Cash only.

Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center 952 E. Baseline Road, Suite 102, Mesa interfaith-community.org heatherposey70@gmail.com Spirit Night – A Holistic Healing Festival 1 to 6 p.m. third Saturday of the month Lightworkers offer a wide range of services including Reiki, facials, mediums, drumming, tarot, angel messages and more. Services range from $20 to $30.

Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center 952 E. Baseline Road, Suite 102, Mesa interfaith-community.org, heatherposey70@gmail.com

OTHER

Forever Marriage Ministries Marriage Restoration Support Group for Wives Offers hope to the hurting Valleywide through one-on-one Biblical marriage teaching, God-honoring wife discipleship and marriage restoration mentoring to wives seeking God’s will in the restoration of marriage.

Lisa, 602-377-8847, marriage@lisacmyers.com, forevermarriageministries.com, facebook.com/forevermarriages Jewish Women International, Avodah Chapter 1581 Monthly luncheon. Social Box Eateries, 1371 N. Alma School Road, Chandler RSVP: 480-802-9304, 480-655-8812 Moms in Prayer International A group of mothers who meet one hour each week to intercede for their children and schools through prayer. Liane Wright, 480-699-7887, momsinprayer.org Bible Study Meets twice a month Members of the Women’s Life Group study the Bible and discuss how the lessons can relate to their lives. Sun Lakes United Church of Christ, Chandler.

Jan Olson: 480-802-7457, Joy King 480-588-1882 Let us help you publicize your church or temple’s events in the Spirituality section by emailing details to news@santansun.com.

Include a brief description of the event, times, days, dates, cost or free, if registration is required, venue, address, publishable phone number, website if applicable and contact information for verification purposes. We welcome photos, which must be 300 dpi JPEGs or taken on a digital camera on the “best” or “highest quality” setting. Information is due 10 days prior to publication date. Submission does not guarantee placement.

CHANDLER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH MAKING AND DEPLOYING DISCIPLES FOR OVER 100 YEARS.

OPEN HEARTS. OPEN MINDS. OPEN DOORS

SUNDAY WORSHIP AT 8:30 AM & 10:00 AM Childcare Provided • All Welcome!

480-963-3360 | www.chandlermethodist.org | 450 E. Chandler Heights Rd.

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

DIRECTORY AIR CONDITIONING /HEAT

DIRECTORY

Call us at 480-898-6465 or email classifieds@santansun.com Proud member of

PAINTING Four ads for $116.73 CLEANING SERVICES

65

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

PAINTING

PLUMBING PLUMBING PLUMBING 1 HOUR RESPONSE

480-726-1600 *All Competitor’s Coupons Accepted ABC PLUMBING & ROOTER

ROC156315, ROC285317

AC-HEAT-PLUMBING

FREE ESTIMATES! FREE DIAGNOSIS! OPEN 24/7/365

A+ Rating

(480) 524-1002

Free estimates at 480-802-1992 or contact@simplygrandcleaningaz.com

ANNOUNCEMENTS

COMPUTER/IT SERVICES

EMERGENCY SERVICE www.abcplumbingandrooter.com

Lic. ROC153202/213278, Bonded & Insured *Call office for details

LANDSCAPING

FIRST LOCATION IN ARIZONA

TECHNOLOGY TRAINING Your Location - We come to you!

Customized For Seniors, Businesses & Veterans Monsoon Special $20 OFF

We are looking for people 18 years and older to sign-in up in our database to participate in paid market research.

• Internet understanding uses (research, travel, organize) & security • Computer diagnostics/maintenance/security; MS products & Apps • iPad®, Tablets & Smartphones • Digital Cameras & much more

for Your Opinion!

Please call us at 602-438-2800 or sign up at fieldwork.com and join our database

AUTOS FOR SALE SELLING CARS MADE SIMPLE

Autos, RVs, Boats & Golf Carts, I Will Sell It All! I will Sell Your Vehicle For As Little As $50!

• Car Wash • Photo Shoot • Online Advertisement on Multiple Websites!

• Handle Phone Calls • I Come to You • No Charge Until the Vehicle Sells

NELSON’S AUTO SELLING SERVICE

Call Nelson at 623-235-7999

CARPET

CARPET CLEANING CLEANING

ABC Plumbing SAN TAN PLUMBING & DRAIN CLEANING & Rooter

10% OFF

We Beat Competitors Prices & Quality Free Estimates• 3 Year Warranty

480-688-4770

www.eastvalleypainters.com Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131

©2018 Senior CompuCare-VOTS • All Rights Reserved

CONCRETE &

480-892-5000 480-726-1600

Paint Interior & Exterior • Drywall Repair Light Carpentry • Power Washing • Textures Matched Popcorn Removal • Pool Deck Coatings Garage Floor Coatings • Color Consulting

Family Owned & Operated

Now Accepting all

major credit cards

Discounts to all: • Seniors • Military • First Responders

A+

Since 1968

ROC#153202/213288

LANDSCAPING

PAINTING

PLUMBING

LANDSCAPING

PET SERVICES

PLUMBING

Dan Mullaney

Concrete Work • Patios • Sidewalks • Driveways • 30 years experience • Free Estimates

480-516-8920 CONCRETE & MASONRY

LANDSCAPING

CONCRETE & BLOCK WORK

WINTER SPECIALS

PLUMBING PLUMBING 24-HOUR SERVICE

Voted #1

888.657.2280, ext 1 www.SeniorCompuCare.com

Concrete MASONRY

PAINTING

PAINT SERVICES

East Valley PAINTERS

Taking the Mystery Out of Technology!

$$$ Earn Cash $$$

SINCE 1968

• Concrete • Block Work • Patios • Sidewalks • Driveways • Retaining Walls

Small Job Specialist Free Esitimates

602-885-1403

www.miguelslandscapinginc.com

Family owned in Chandler since 2002 • Daily Visits to Your Home • Multiple Visits to Your Home Don’t feel guilty for leaving your pet ...

Sandi will keep those tails waggin’

10% Off Your First Booking Call for reasonable rates

PAVERS, WATER FEATURES, FLAGSTONE, FIREPLACE, SOD, BBQ, CURBING, ROCK AND IRRIGATION Remodeling License ROC #183369 • Bonded, Insured

480-699-3290 www.sandistailwaggers.com Member of the PSI and Chamber of Commerce Licesed, Insured and Bonded

DIRECTORY 66

DIRECTORY SEWER & DRAIN SEWER AND DRAIN

SUN/SHADE SCREENS

CLASSIFIEDS

SanTan Sun News Classified Ads

ABC Plumbing & Rooter

Each ad starts at $22 plus Chandler tax per issue. Special: Buy 3 get 4th for free for only $66. You get up to 50 words more than other classifieds.

Sewer Replacements Water Heaters Repipes Watermains

To Place Your Classified Ad Call 480-898-6465 or Email: Classifieds@SanTanSun.com

48 YEARS In Business

CLEANING SERVICES

480-726-1600

Read our paper online: www.SanTanSun.com

Licensed/Bonded/Insured

Since 1968 ROC#153202/213278

% 20% 0 Financing Fast* *Call for details.

Senior Discount!

SEWER & DRAIN

WINDOWS/ CLEANING John’s Window Cleaning

Delivered to 27,300+ Driveways on the 1st & 3rd Saturdays of the Month to Affluent Families!

PLUS 7,700 Commercial locations!

To Place Your Ad Call us at 480-898-6465 or Email: Class@TimesPublications.com

The Owner Cleans Your Windows!

1-Story $135 2-Story $155 Inside & Out Up To 30 Panes

Screens Cleaned $2.50 Per Pane Additional Panes $2 each

Power Washing Available

480.201.6471

CLASSIFIEDS BEAUTY SERVICES Amway Global Products.

Top quality Health, Beauty, and Home Care.

100% guaranteed. Miss your distributor? Call the Fun Couple at (480) 821-2231 and get home delivery. ABA Marketing Group serving the South East Valley since 1991.

CARPET CLEANING MUSTANG CARPET & TILE CLEANING Carpet, Tile & Grout, and Upholstery Cleaning. Family owned, truck-mounted steam cleaning. We off 1/2-hour appointment time frames, so no waiting around. We include pre-spraying, mild deodorizer and degreasers for high traffic areas at no charge.

Member BBB with A+ Rating!

"We clean like it's our own!"

480-688-3003

CARPET CLEANING BIG JOHN'S CARPET CLEANING Our truck-mounted steam cleaning system will deep clean your carpets, ridding them of unwanted dirt, bacteria, fungus and chemical residues.

Upholstery cleaning also available.

Tile and grout cleaning.

For a clean and healthy carpet, call 480-786-6610 or 602-989-8311 John Downs, Owner/Operator, Ocotillo Resident.

Call for monthly specials.

SanTan Sun News Classifieds & Business Directory Ads WORK!

Place your ad today!

Call 480-898-6465 or Email:

class@timespublications.com

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

FINISHING TOUCH CLEANING SERVICE...19 years in Chandler and Gilbert areas. Mother/Daughter Team with excellent long-term client references. METICULOUS w/an EYE 4 DETAIL!!

Looking for Steady Clientele that want Consistent Quality Service with EVERY cleaning.

Competitive rates.

Exceptional Service!! We Love Pets!! Free in home estimate.

Call Rita -480-250-9744 SIMPLY GRAND CLEANING SERVICE House cleaning specialists offering weekly, biweekly, monthly, or one-time cleanings. Also, providing move-in/out cleaning service, windows and patios. We use GREEN environmentally friendly products. High quality services at a great price. Very dependable, insured and with excellent references. $10 off first service with mention of this ad.

Call Dennis for a free estimate 480-802-1992 or Email: contact@simplygrandcleaningaz.com

ELECTRICAL E. Z. ELECTRIC SERVICE RETIRED ELECTRICIAN. SMALL JOBS WANTED. I ALSO FIX LOW VOLTAGE OUTDOOR LIGHTING. ALL WORK TO CODE. I SHOW UP! 480-406-3610

We Reach Your Target Market!

Distributed to: 85248, 85249, 85286, 85225 (partial) To Place Your Classified Ad Call 480-898-6465 or Email:

Classifieds@SanTanSun.com

EMPLOYMENT

Position Title: F/T CNC Machine Operator General Summary

The CNC Machine Operator is responsible for the execution of CNC Machine Tool Operations. The setups of fixtures, jigs, spoil boards, and tooling to perform the machining operations.

This includes making complex cuts using the specified tooling and materials as directed by management and the applications programmer.

Works under general supervision; relies on experience and general instructions to perform the functions of the job.

Job Specifications

* Minimum high school education. * Minimum of 1 year of CNC machine tool experience; focus on FANUC controlled driven CNC machine is preferred. * Working knowledge of mathematical functions. * Working knowledge of Cartesian coordinate graphic systems. * Must be able to understand and interpret the various Machine Code for FANUC controlled based CNC machines. * Working knowledge of computer equipment.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

* Cuts, shapes, and does boring, counter boring, counter sinking operations in lumber and other nonferrous materials to job specifications. * Prepares spoil boards for use and manages the process to determine when they are to be changed and replaced. * Touches off tools and enters registration in the CNC control to machine the programs to meet customer specifications, in a safe condition and prevents property damage. * Changes tools and properly collects tooling for safety to protect employee and company assets. * Utilizes tools touch probes, calibration programs, and height gages to set machine tools for tool changes and cutting processes * Storages programming files and is responsible for file management. * Checks processed lumber to ensure operation is producing to required job specifications. * Secures and maintains material and supplies required on the operation according to production sheets. * Ensures work area is safe, clean and organized, and that equipment is safe to operate. * Completes pre-shift/startup equipment inspection checklist and reports any problems or concerns. * Maintains a clean and orderly work environment. * Maintains production records as required. * Performs duties consistent with established safety and quality procedures, rules, and standards. * Performs minor preventive maintenance as specified. * Participates in safety, CI and other programs and meetings. * Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits Include: Medical, Dental,Vision, 401K APPLY ONLINE www.ufpi.com/careers Location: 6878 W. Chandler Blvd Chandler, AZ 85226 480-961-0833

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIEDS

67

Call us at 480-898-6465 or email classifieds@santansun.com Proud member of

EMPLOYMENT

HANDYMAN

LANDSCAPING

PLUMBING

WINDOWS/ CLEANING

PT Office Help Light duties, computer exp helpful. Flexible hours.

American Self Storage 12220 E. Riggs Rd., Ste.107 Chandler, AZ 85249 (McQueen & Riggs) 480-895-0955 Stop in at location for more details.

ALL HONEY-DO LISTS! General Handyman Services.

One Call, We Do It All! Owner does all work.

Free Estimates with Pride & Prompt Service. Licensed, Bonded, Insured.

ROC 118198.

A+ SPRINKLER REPAIR SERVICE Are you tired of fixing drip system leaks?

20 years experience repairing and replacing drip systems, valves, wire troubleshooting & timers. All repairs!

Honest and reliable.

East Valley Native.

Call and compare prices!

602-826-4717

ABC PLUMBING & ROOTER CHANDLER/GILBERT *$79.00 OFF with this ad* 110% Guarantee*/OWNER OPERATED Small & Large REPAIRS 24/7 Slab leak, water main, hot water heaters, & sewer repair specialist.

Water softening specialist, water filters, and reverse osmosis. 100-year warranty on parts & labor. * BBB A+ Rating. BBB Ethics Award Winner. Chandler Chamber of Commerce Employer of Choice Award.

ROC#153202/213288 *Call for details 480-726-1600

"MOM WAS RIGHT" Appearance Counts!

PROFESSIONAL WINDOW CLEANING Detailed Service and Tidy Inside Your Home!

1 Story-$100 & 2 Story-$140 Up to 30 Panes.

Price Includes Inside and Out. Screens Cleaned $3 Each.

Pressure Washing and Fixture Cleaning Also Available.

21 Years of Accumulated References!

CALL RON at 480-584-1643 A+ Member of BBB Bonded & Insured

CURE ALL PLUMBING For all your plumbing needs!

Free estimates and Senior Discounts! Water heaters, faucets, toilets, pipe leaks, garbage disposals, slab leaks, repiping, drain cleaning: Clogs, jetting, Camera inspection, locating. Water softeners, Reverse Osmosis systems. Sprinkler and Backflow repairs. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. Member of BBB. ROC#204797 Cure All Plumbing 480-895-9838

TUTORING

Roommate needed?

Classifieds can Help!

480-898-6465

GLASS SERVICES GLASS, MIRRORS, SHOWER DOORS Family Owned with 50 years' EXPERIENCE. Shower and tub enclosures Framed, Frameless or Custom Doors We also install insulated glass, mirrored closet doors, window glass, mirrors, patio doors, glass table protectors.

If it’s glass, we can help you.

QUALITY SERVICE at Competitive Prices.

FREE Estimates WESLEY'S GLASS & MIRROR

Call 480-306-5113 wesleysglass.com SERVICING THE ENTIRE VALLEY

S&I General Contracting, Inc.

Steve 602-339-4766

UNIVERSAL HOME REPAIR Small projects, house maintenance and renovations, house/apartment preparation for new tenants.

Air conditioning repairs.

Call Jack @ 480-213-4005 jacekwrona@cox.net

HEALTH & BEAUTY FBR Therapeutic Massage Specializing in Pain Management Therapy. In-Home Studio in Chandler. Currently Only Accepting Female Clients. Cross Roads Warner/McClintock Rose Courtney - Licensed 480-440-3737 rosetxaz@gmail.com

Classified Works!

480-898-6465

REAL ESTATE - OTHER

OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE!

By Appointment Only 11525 E Germann Rd, Chandler, AZ 85286

Space Available: 2,250 SF - $17.50 / SF Gross Monthly Rental - 8 Offices - Lobby - Two Restrooms - Kitchen - Copy Area - File Room - Air Conditioned

Property Highlights:

- 13 Covered Parking Spaces - Excellent Access to The Loop 202 San Tan Freeway

Location Description: Located on the South Side of Germann Rd. Approximately 1/4 Mile East of Arizona Ave. In Chandler. Call Now to Set An Appointment to See!

480-732-9238 Ext. 207

www.AplusSprinklerRepair.com

BERNIE'S LANDSCAPING Mowing, Clean-Ups, Gravel, Winter Grass, Irrigation Repair, Tree Removal & Pruning.

Landscape Maintenance FREE Estimates 480-340-6009

LANDSCAPING KUTTINGEDGE LANDSCAPE A Professional and Reliable Maintenance company.

Services include over-seeding, weekly and biweekly maintenance, one time clean ups, weed control, tree work and more.

Call Rick for a free estimate 480-250-6608 or email: Kuttingedgelandscape@cox.net

SEWER & DRAIN

www.kuttingedgelandscape.com

ABC PLUMBING & ROOTER 480-705-7772 SERVICE NOW!!

110% Guaranteed/100 Year Warranty.

OWNER Operated (Licensed, Bonded, Insured).

20% OFF Seniors/Military. A+ Rating with BBB, Chandler, Gilbert, Phoenix, AZ award winning. If it's plumbing, we do it! 24-hour flood restoration services.

Financing approval in minutes with NO MONEY DOWN & ZERO INTEREST. ROC#153202/213278

and Visit:

MOVING IN OR OUT MOVERS Professional, hardworking, excellent service. No hidden fees. Whether you are moving in or moving out LEAVE THE LIFTING TO US! Serving the East Valley. www.inoroutmoversphoenixmetro.com

Call Terry at 602-653-5367

PAINTING EAGLE RIDGE PAINTING, LLC Interior repaint specialist, offering in-home color consulting for every job.

Using only quality low VOC paints, brush-n-roll application, two coat coverage. Family owned and operated with over 25 years experience. ROC 296732 Bonded & Insured.

Call Sue 480-825-2122

Roommate needed?

Classifieds can Help!

480-898-6465

Tutoring Available: Grades K-8 Expert Teacher & Reading Specialist Offering Private Lessons at Affordable Rates. Please contact BJ at 928-530-7423 or bjzteachingspecialist@ yahoo.com

WINDOWS/ CLEANING JOHN'S WINDOW CLEANING 1-story $135 / 2-story $155 inside and out up to 30 panes (add'l panes $2) Screens cleaned $2.50 per pane. Power Washing and Re-Screening available Same day Service (480) 201-6471 DIRTY WINDOWS? Call Fish Window Cleaning @ 480-962-4688 and you will have the cleanest windows and screens on the block.

Below is the list of services we offer: Windows – Interior & Exterior Screens – Sunscreens and Regular Tracks, Ceiling Fans, Light Fixtures Power Washing - Your driveway, sidewalks and patios.

Follow us on InstaGram @FISH_WCEASTVALLEYAZ

Hiring? Place your ad in Classifieds

480-898-6465

CLASSIFIEDS 68

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

69

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

Where To Eat

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Galeto offers a Brazilian-style meat lovers heaven

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Managing Editor

A new Brazilian steakhouse in Chandler gives diners a chance to feast on unlimited slices of beef, pork, lamb and homemade sausage delivered to the table in a family-friendly setting.

Galeto Brazilian Steakhouse opened on N. 54th St., just south of Ray Road in The Shoppes at Casa Paloma about a month ago, and customers are eating up the unusual restaurant experience.

In addition to a multitude of meats, diners can also try homemade salads, rice, beans, seafood and other flavorful hot and cold foods at a gourmet bar.

The Chandler restaurant is similar to other Brazilian steakhouses in the Valley including Rodizio Grill in Mesa and Fogo de Chao in Scottsdale. The first Galeto Brazilian Steakhouse opened in 2014 in Oakland, California.

A meat lover’s paradise, Galeto offers about 14 to 16 different cuts of meat served in what is called “rotisserie style,” said Galeto Brazilian Steakhouse president Eli Nascimento.

Gauchos deliver the meat in “continuous service” as long as customers have a token they are given flipped to the green side. When diners want a break, they can turn their token so the red side shows up. Each guest uses a tong to pull the piece of meat they want sliced and served by the gauchos.

“You have all the cuts at your disposal,” said Nascimento, a native Brazilian. “It’s a full experience. It’s fun; it’s interactive. You choose where to cut from and the temperature. It’s a heaven for meat lovers.”

Galeto offers the churrasco cooking technique, which Nascimento said is “the art of roasting larger chunks of meat over an open fire, open flame.”

The method is “good for flavors” and locks “in all the juices,” he said.

Nascimento said Galeto stands out from other local Brazilian restaurants for a few reasons, including the “authenticity” of the Brazilian experience, he said. The recipes are ones Nascimento

Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

Peter Patenge, general manager for the new Galeto Brazilian Steakhouse in Chandler, is ready to welcome carnivores who can gorge on a wide variety of meat dishes.

“We want all our guests to have a trip to Brazil and back through the experience,” Nascimento said.

The service and ambiance also make it a special dining adventure, he added.

“I feel home when I’m at the restaurant and I try to create that same environment for everybody that works with us and for guests, as well,” Nascimento said. “I usually say when you’re walking through the doors of Galeto it’s a Brazilian zip code with the U.S. When you work you want to feel good.”

Customers can order the all-you-caneat meats or full experience for $39.95 and that includes unlimited trips to the gourmet bar.

Ordering just the gourmet bar costs $36.95. Children ages birth to 5 years old eat free and those ages 6 to 12 are charged half price for the meats and gourmet bar.

The gourmet bar includes an array of seafood, including salmon, shrimp, tuna, mussels and lobster bisque as part of the overall price. Many other Brazilian steakhouse restaurants charge extra or à la carte prices for seafood, the Galeto team said.

The gourmet bar includes what Nascimento said is an authentic Brazilian potato salad made with “some sweet and crunchiness of the green apple” and with the potato cooked with its skin on it to “keep all the flavors of the potato in there.”

A charcuterie with imported, saltKimberly Carillo/Staff Photographer cured meats includes Besides meat, Galeto’s also offers seafood as well as vegetable prosciutto and salami. dishes and the entire meal can be topped off with several desserts.

Eggplant Caponata – chopped fried eggplant mixed with fresh vegetables – and Galeto said he and others grew up with in Brazil, and a Brazilian chef works at the Chandler Feijoada – a black bean stew with a smoky flavor – are also on the gourmet restaurant.

bar menu.

Complimentary appetizers are served as soon as customers are seated. They include traditional cheese bread made with yucca roots starch that is gluten-

culinary experience. The people were just as wonderful. Bartenders are friendly and know how to make the perfect martini,” she added, noting: “The meat servers were very knowledgeable and answered our questions about the meat preparation.

The set-up of the restaurant is just as elegant and breathtaking. Their art features the Brazilian cowboys. There is a glass wall between the grills and the dining area giving you a perfect view of the art of fire-roasting meats.

“There is a full glass wine room between the bar and dining area. They even have private dining rooms for events. It was an amazing night and we will definitely be going back for many more.”

Greg Miller posted, “The feijoada was perfect, the other offerings were great. … The meats were high quality and rotisserie cooked very expertly.”

Nascimento, who said he “always knew how to cook,” had previously opened a different Brazilian steakhouse in San Francisco in 2003 and another one in San Mateo, California, in 2010.

He said he and his business partner went separate ways and he sold his shares in the company with the goal of creating “an authentic Brazilian steakhouse again.”

Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

Every steakhouse needs a grill master and that’s Guilherme Moura’s title at the Galeto Brazilian Steakhouse in Chandler.

free, a fried polenta and fried, breaded bananas.

Desserts include a Brazilian pudim, a specialty flan with creamy custard and caramel on top; and papaya cream, a blended ice cream and papaya served with Cassis liqueur.

Many customers praised the food and service at Galeto Steakhouse in Chandler on the restaurant’s Facebook page.

“Amazing food, amazing staff, endless options!” Bryan Sawyer posted. “Nice addition to the Chandler-Ahwatukee area.”

Katelin Kalik said, “My husband took me to their soft opening for my birthday.

What a wonderful experience. The food was absolutely amazing. We’ve been to a few Brazilian Steakhouses and Galeto is now our top choice.”

“It’s not just a restaurant, it is a

Previously, while he lived in Brazil he owned a different type of company and said he “always loved business.”

Nascimento, who lives in California, said things are going well at the Chandler restaurant, which has 60 employees, including several with ties to Brazil.

“Chandler is near home,” he said.

“It’s right over here near California and I normally say that I didn’t (choose) the location, the location chose me and it was all orchestrated by the creator, by God. That location was right before me, the right timing. The city is growing.

Chandler, it’s a fantastic city. It’s doing very well economically. It’s everything to love about it.”

Galeto Steakhouse is open from 5 to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

Information: galeto.com.

70

WHERE TO EAT

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

For a frosty treat, kids can make frosty smoothies 1 cup of ice cubes or fruit cubes (I used banana smoothie cubes) Directions: Blend for at least 2 minutes to get the pudding thick, and enjoy.

Chocolate Smoothie Shake

BY JAN D’ATRI Contributor

So, Santa got the cookies, but I think the kids should get into the act this year and make Frosty the Snowman, well, some frosty drinks. They’re tasty and nutritious for your kids too!) After the holidays, hang on to these recipes so the kids can enjoy a healthy smoothie for breakfast, lunch or after sports.

Check out my One Minute KidChen: jandatri.com/recipe/smoothie-ice-cubes.

Fruit & Pudding Smoothies Banana Smoothie

1 large ripe banana 1 container (10 oz.) vanilla yogurt 1/2 cup milk 2 tablespoons banana instant pudding (or vanilla pudding) 1 tablespoon honey if needed for more sweetness

1/2 cup ice cream 1/2 cup milk 3 tablespoons instant chocolate pudding 1/4 ripe avocado, optional (But it makes it so creamy and delicious!)

1-2 cups of ice cubes Directions: Blend for at least 2 minutes to get the pudding thick, and enjoy.

Strawberry Smoothie

2-3 cups fresh strawberries 1/2 container (10 oz.) vanilla or strawberry yogurt 1/2 cup milk 1 tablespoon of honey if needed for more sweetness 2 tablespoons strawberry or vanilla pudding 1 cup of ice cubes or fruit cubes (I used strawberry smoothie cubes) Directions: Blend for at least 2 minutes to get the pudding thick, and enjoy.

Mixed Berry Smoothie

2-3 cups mixed berries; strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries

1/2 container (10 oz.) vanilla, berry or any fruit yogurt 1/2 cup milk 1 tablespoon of honey if needed for more sweetness 2 tablespoons JELL-O mixed berry gelatin 1 cup of ice cubes or fruit cubes (I used fresh fruit cubes) Directions: Blend for at least 2 minutes to get the pudding thick, and enjoy.

Strawberry, Berry, Berry Banana Smoothie!

1/2 cup orange juice or juice of choice

-Pizza, Pub & Grill-

NEW MENU ITEMS!

• Authentic Thai Cuisine • Specialty Dishes • Seafood • Full Bar • Happy Hour Mon. - Sat.

480-895-1499

www.SilkTrueAsian.com 4995 S. Alma School Rd. Chandler

In The Fulton Ranch Promenade at the N.E. corner of Alma School & Chandler Heights

1/2 cup of strawberries 1/2 cup of blueberries 1/2 cup of raspberries 1 banana 1/2 cup fat free strawberry or plain yogurt 1 tablespoon of honey 2 teaspoons fresh squeezed lemon juice Directions: Blend and enjoy! Makes 4 kid-size smoothies.

Note: For smoothie cubes, pour leftover smoothie into ice cube tray and freeze.

For fruit cubes, add a piece of fruit or berry to each ice cube tray and then fill with water or juice.

Come join us now for live entertainment, special events and more!

HAPPY HOUR Sat 4:30pm-6pm Open for Lunch: M-Sat 11am-2:30pm Dinner: Mon-Thurs 4:30-8:30, Fri-Sun 4:30pm-9pm

Serving the valley for over 30 yea.

SilkThai

E N J O Y B R E A K FA S T, L U N C H & D I N N E R !

WARNING

$5 OFF WE DELIVE THROU R GRUBH GH UBERE UB & ATS!

Your Continued Support!

Tank You For

HAPPY HOUR 3 - 6 PM

TEXT “MORENOS” TO 85775 FOR DEALS!

$3 OFF

ORDER OF $20 OR MORE

ORDER OF $10 OR MORE

FREE Breakfast

Buy ONE Get One FREE

Not to be combined with other offers. Exp: 1/19/19.

Taco Tuesday

|

4981 S Arizona Ave, Suite 6 • Chandler, AZ

Equal or lesser value.

Valid everyday from 8am to 11am.

FREE Wifi!

Senior Monday410% 10% OFF all day |

480-494-5473

|

MorenosMexicanGrillAZ.com

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019

FIND YOUR PURPOSE AT GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY

TOUR OUR VIBRANT GROWING CAMPUS • Student-guided tours start every hour, Monday – Saturday • Preview the state-of-the-art STEM building and high-tech labs, suite-style residence halls, GCU Stadium, Thunder Alley, Lopes Way and more!

• Explore more than 200 academic degree programs and discover the right major for you • Meet with an admissions counselor to discuss financial options and scholarship opportunities

GCU ranked 16 TH BEST College Campus in America

Visit gcu.edu/GoGCU for more info!

For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at gcu.edu/disclosures. Please note, not all GCU programs are available in all states and in all learning modalities. Program availability is contingent on student enrollment. Grand Canyon University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission 800-621-7440; http://hlcommission.org/. Important policy information is available in the University Policy Handbook at https://www.gcu.edu/academics/academic-policies.php. GCU, while reserving its lawful rights in light of its Christian mission, is committed to maintaining an academic environment that is free from unlawful discrimination. Further detail on GCU’s Non-Discrimination policies can be found at gcu.edu/titleIX The information printed in this material is accurate as of DECEMBER 2018. For the most up-to-date information about admission requirements, tuition, scholarships and more, visit gcu.edu ©2018 Grand Canyon University 18GTR0958

71

72

SANTAN SUN NEWS | JANUARY 5–18, 2019