Desertsun full 0814 by Times Media Group

WHEN CHOOSING YOUR ORTHODONTIST

From Dr. Chamberlain’s Desktop

Earlier this month, I wrote about an experience I had while traveling on the plane from Buffalo to Phoenix The article reviewed a conversation I had with a gentleman about some steps to determine if an orthodontics office would be a good fit It discussed the difference between a general dentist and an orthodontist and how Google reviews can reveal much about a practice before you make the first phone call Today I’d like to go further on some ideas you can use to help determine your decision on an orthodontist After all, if 93-percent of people surveyed feel that a good-looking smile can help determine your employment and career status, then it must be an important decision After an initial search, involving a look at Google reviews, a phone call to the office is the next step. You should be looking for timeliness of the appointment and the hours they keep during the week Believe it or not, but some offices

only operate 8am - 3pm. That may not be a problem if you work from home or home school your children but for many others that can become restrictive Hopefully the phone visit made you feel comfortable as well. Next, you are on to your first visit Most, if not all orthodontic offices offer a free orthodontic exam However, not all will give much time to that exam, and some may not take initial records like photos and a panoramic x-ray. This is a very important step and helps the orthodontist and the patient make some decisions on what may be necessary for treatment A good orthodontic office will take these records and give you a copy of them to go over at home Further, during the exam process, make sure you are looking at the office Is it clean and tidy? Is it running on schedule while you are there? Does the staff seem happy to be there and are they patient to help and answer questions? When looking at the orthodontist, ask yourself, does he or she seem trustworthy and competent? Is their demeanor pleasant or abrasive? You will be working with this person closely for the next several months so you want someone who you feel you can communicate with Are they approachable? Look at the equipment in the office

Is the office using technology that will help make the process more efficient on your time? Will the technology in the office make your treatment more predictable? Look at the treatment plan. Is it something you can understand and conceptually agree with? Lastly, look at the treatment fees There is some variation with treatment fees but even more so with how those fees are broken up and taken care of. Do they offer

“pay in full” discounts, multi-child discounts, and are they contracted with your insurance? Do they offer extended payment arrangements, zero-interest financing or lower down payment arrangements? A good orthodontic office will try to meet your needs in every aspect of the visit Naturally, I didn't mention all this to the man sitting next to me on the plane (I am passionate about what I do, but I also have empathy for any captive audiences that didn't choose who they happen to sit next to) However, the conversation sparked some important thoughts that I wanted to share in this article I hope you find it helpful with your orthodontic search If you happen to read this article and come to Chamberlain Orthodontics for a consultation, I would love to hear how we live up to the above questions

Dr Thomas Chamberlain

Sleep Apnea has become one of the leading US health concerns that we face as we continue to treat an aging and oftentimes overweight population Patients who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea can have symptoms that include a feeling of being tired, fatigued and sleepy during the daytime. Many people who develop sleep apnea start with snoring, which can then progress towards apnea, where they stop breathing The benefit of treating sleep apnea is that it will reduce the complications associated with sleep apnea These complications include: problems with your endocrine system [thyroid problems and diabetes], hypertension, congestive heart failure, cardiovascular disease including heart block and arrhythmias, an increased risk of stroke, mood disorders and of course, increased mortality After seeing this long list of complications, one can see why it is so important to treat the obstructive sleep apnea [OSA] as soon as it is diagnosed Once a patient has been diagnosed with

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

OSA, it is important to begin immediate treatment The gold standard in treating sleep apnea has been CPAP [continuous positive airway pressure], where oxygen is forced into their lungs to keep the airway open so the patient does not stop breathing and keeps enough oxygen in the system to keep the brain and heart supplied to function normally Unfortunately, there are many people who cannot tolerate CPAP and therefore seek alternative treatment options with us When you come into our state of the art facility, we will perform a complete and thorough head and neck examination including radiographic a nalysis of your facial structures. We will discuss the different options to treat sleep apnea from oral devices that open the airway to definitive jaw surgery to correct for abnormal facial development

Contact our office (480) 814-9500 to schedule your consultation with Dr Nish Shah and visit our website www azoral com for all our services provided

NearbyNews

Publisher Times Media Group

President

Steve T. Strickbine

Executive Editor

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Graphic Design

Erica Odello, Shannon Fish, Helga Benz

Contributors

Mike Tulumello, Lynette Carrington, Meghan McCoy, Jan D’Atri, Tracy House, Alison Stanton, Scott Shumaker

Contact the Nearby News at 480-348-0343 • Fax: 480-348-2109

email: Editor@NearbyNews.com

The Desert Sun News is published monthly and distributed to 10,000 residences and businesses within Chandler, 8,500 mailed directly to homes and 1,500 distributed on newsstands, and in several hundred high-traffic locations throughout the community.

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Cover Photo: Tim Sealy

community spotlight

By Lynette Carrington

Desert Cross Church Builds

Homes

in Tecate, Mexico

When the heat was just starting to rise in Arizona, 33 members of Desert Cross Lutheran Church headed south to Tecate, Mexico, on a mission to build homes in one of the area’s poorest neighborhoods.

“We built two homes from start to finish,” said Chad Diegle, the church’s youth ministries director. “It takes 16 to 17 people per home. The first day is spent mixing by hand to cover an 11 x 22 slab.”

The homes are simple, without utilities because they are usually unavailable. However, the structures are sturdy and designed to protect families from the elements.

While the slab is being built, another small crew assembles the frame. The next morning, the framed walls are secured, placed upward and leveled. The roof is installed in sections, and

the walls are finished with stucco. The building supplies and larger tools are provided by the Christian-based nonprofit Amor Ministries, with whom Diegle coordinates the mission.

A veteran of the San Diego-based program, Diegle went on an Amor mission as a 17-year-old living in Albuquerque. He enjoyed his experience so much that he offers the opportunity to the Desert Cross congregation. Youth and other members of the church have been traveling to Mexico frequently since 2001. Of this year’s group of 33, onethird were teenagers.

“Amor Ministries’ goal is to partner with the local pastors in Mexico and find families in need,” Diegle said. “The experience is profound seeing poverty at that level, making a difference building something and

using your hands. All that just culminated in me making that a priority for my youth group.”

Allegra Vieux, field specialist with Amor Ministries, assisted the Desert Cross group.

“Desert Cross was an absolute blast to work with,” Vieux said. “You could tell they genuinely care for others just through the way they interacted with each other. Whether they were joking around on the worksite or brainstorming ways they could connect with the families they were building for, it was evident that they love to serve...can’t wait to have them back.”

Diegle was able to see beyond the poverty and the lack of utilities.

“Is there joy down there or does joy come from having some stability in life and homes?” posed Diegle. “I’m

convinced that they are much more content living with less than we’d like to think. All it takes is to throw a Frisbee into the neighborhood, and you realize that these kids may see television and want things, but they’re very content.”

Desert Cross Lutheran Church is located at 8600 S. McClintock Dr. in Tempe with an additional campus in Gilbert. For more information about the mission, contact Chad Diegle at cdiegle@desertcross.org. Learn more about the church at www.desertcross. org.

By Mike Tulumello gridiron

report

Aztecs Football Season Starts Soon

Corona del Sol Aztecs

Corona del Sol High School

1001 E. Knox Rd., Tempe http://cdsaztecs.weebly.com/football.html

Head coach: Cory Nenaber 2013 Record: 3-7

Corona del Sol is hoping a familiar face will give the Aztecs a new look in football.

Cory Nenaber, who played football and baseball at Corona in the 1990s then coached the same sports there in the 2000s, is taking over as the head football coach.

He inherits a team that went 3-7 and saw coach Tom Joseph replaced in midseason, with Tim Kelly taking over in an interim role.

Nenaber graduated from Corona in 1997, then played college baseball before turning to the school. He taught there for nine years and coached for 10.

Cassius Peat. The defensive end-tight end, who is 6-foot-4, 240 pounds, is the brother of Andrus Peat, the Corona grad who is now the starting left tackle (and projected first-round NFL draft pick) at Stanford.

Cassius is considering six colleges, including Arizona State, Nenaber said.

Not only is Peat talented, but, “He is working his butt off for us,” the coach said.

Also returning is fellow senior Elijah Hassell, who will be the middle linebacker.

“We expect him to have a big year,” Nenaber said.

Senior Matt Asta is the quarterback.

“He’s a good leader,” Nenaber said. “He’ll manage the game really well. The kids look to him as a hard worker. He does everything you ask him to do.”

Pride Ranked No. 21 in the U.S.

By Mike Tulumello

Mountain Pointe Pride

Mountain Pointe High School

4201 E. Knox Rd., Phoenix www.mphsfootball.com

Head coach: Norris Vaughan 2013 record: 14-0 (Division 1 state champ)

The Mountain Pointe Pride made the big time last year.

If they’re anywhere close to that same level, the team should dominate again this fall. Already, they’re ranked No. 21 nationally in USA Today’s preseason rankings; they’re the only Arizona team to make the top 25.

He will run behind four returning offensive lineman who Vaughan calls “the best offensive linemen we’ve ever had,” all likely good enough to play in college.

These include the team’s only threeyear starter, 6-foot-2, 255 pound center Collin Lambdin. “He’s a great player,” Vaughan said. Another stalwart is Nick Carman, who, Vaughan said, has more than a dozen college offers.

At quarterback will be 6-3, 190-pound Garvin Alston.

The Pride’s notoriety is the result of its perfect season in 2013, when they ran up a 14-0 record en route to the Division 1 state title. The players even had a composite national ranking of No. 5, said coach Norris Vaughan.

“That was a real special team, with a lot of good kids,” Vaughan said, who added that 15 players signed with various colleges.

He had wanted to be the head football coach and applied for the job but was told he needed head-coaching experience.

So he got the head-coaching job at Maricopa, where he served for four seasons (2010-13) and guided the team to the playoffs for the first time in years in 2012.

Then he got the job at Corona.

“It’s a dream come true to be back,” he said.

The coach’s first goal is to increase participation, which he succeeded in doing by attracting 98 kids to a recent camp. “A significant increase” from the past, he said.

Meanwhile, “We’re trying to raise expectations, but at the same time keep it really fun. It’s about the experience of high school football while helping them become good young men and leaders.”

The Aztecs return with about 12 starters, including the highly touted

Corona’s tough schedule includes Brophy and rivals Mountain Pointe (the defending Division 1 state champs) and Desert Vista.

Nenaber believes he has “talented, athletic kids,” but that, “We’re not incredibly big. That’s for sure.”

To succeed, “We’re going to have to play fast. We have to find a way to play together. We’ll have to be very technically sound.

“We’re going to have to be fast. We have talented, athletic kids. We have to find a way to play together.”

Corona del Sol High School schedule

Aug. 29 Buena

Sept. 5 at Horizon

Sept. 12 Skyline

Sept. 19 at Boulder Creek

Sept. 26 Mesquite (homecoming)

Oct. 2 Brophy Prep

Oct. 10 at Dobson

Oct. 17 Mountain Pointe

Oct. 23 at Desert Vista

Oct. 31 at Notre Dame Prep

Mountain Pointe was in a down cycle when Vaughan arrived. No longer. Vaughan has a sparkling 54-10 record in five seasons at the school.

“We’ve had a pretty good run,” Vaughan said.

“It’s just fundamentals, a change of attitude. Our staff has been demanding. We’re really hard on fundamentals. Really hard on attitude.

“With us, the key is discipline, attitude and team play. We emphasize team play, not so much individual play

“Players kind of like that. They want that. Deep down, they really like the discipline.

“It makes it easier for them. They don’t have to make decisions. I make the decisions for them.”

This season, the Pride has a chance to put up plenty of points, thanks to running back Paul Lucas, who is likely the state’s fastest player. Lucas has run a 10.4-second 100 meters and was the state 100-meter-dash champ, Vaughan said.

Lucas has offers from Arizona State, Arizona, Nebraska and Washington, the coach said.

“He’s going to be a great player. He’s a great kid.

He’ll be one of the best leaders we’ve ever had.”

The defense includes defensive tackle Bruce Hester, who Vaughan says has an offer from Arizona, and linebacker Austin Cronen, “a great player,” Vaughan said.

Altogether, the Pride returns six starters on offense, four on defense.

“We’ll be a good team,” Vaughan said.

Mountain Pointe, along with Chandler and Hamilton, figure to be top contenders for this year’s Division 1 state title.

Vaughan, who was a head coach in football-crazy Georgia for 20-plus years before moving to Arizona 10 years ago, thinks these three teams “could play with any team in the country.”

The Pride kicks off its season in Nevada, as part of the Sollenberger Classic, the annual showcase of top programs from Arizona and Nevada. The Pride will play highly ranked Reed High School Aug. 23 in Las Vegas.

Mountain Pointe High School schedule

Aug. 23 Reed, Nev. (at Las Vegas)

Aug. 29 at North

Sept. 5 Cesar Chavez

Sept. 12 Maryvale (homecoming)

Sept. 19 Chandler

Sept. 26 at Hamilton

Oct. 3 Desert Vista

Oct. 10 at Brophy

Oct 17 at Corona del Sol

Oct. 31 Dobson

neighborhood hearsay

Are you ready for some football? High school football season is kicking off soon. Read all about it in our Gridiron Report.

Happy 25th anniversary Chandler Center for the Arts. The center is hosting a weekend full of fun and entertainment starting Friday, Aug. 22, and running through Sunday Aug. 24. Music acts, kids’ activities and much, much more are planned for the celebration weekend that is free to the public.

Family night fun is planned at the new Chandler Fashion Mall splash pad. The unveiling is 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30. After being postponed through the summer, the water fun is sure to excite the kids and give mom and dad a much needed respite from all the shopping.

If you’ve been looking for a place to combine your love of video games and microbrews, a new secret hideaway in Tempe is for you! Endgame, a bar with gobs of gaming systems played on flat-screen TVs, will debut in the fall. A $10 cover lets you play games all day.

The kiddos are back to school, but it’s still blisteringly hot out. Make sure to send them out the door with plenty of cold water to keep them cool throughout the day. Once you’ve done that, it’s time to celebrate your newfound freedom! (We suggest indulging in a mani-pedi.)

Want a taste of Phoenix without leaving the East Valley? You’re in luck! Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, one of Phoenix’s most popular breakfast joints and a Southwestern chain, is expanding into Gilbert and Tempe! The Tempe location will be located directly next to ASU on College Avenue in the revamped Art Annex Building. The Gilbert location will make a home in the town’s Heritage District on the northwestern corner of Gilbert Road and Page Avenue.

From acclaimed executive chef Brian Peterson and pastry chef Danielle Morris comes Earnest, which recently opened in the spot formerly occupied by their restaurant Cork at 4991 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 1, Chandler. The owners invite the public to discover

classic, comfortable American cooking, re-imagined with a modern, local and seasonal point-of-view paying homage to the early agricultural roots of the East Valley. For information, call (480) 883-3773.

Don’t forget to vote for your favorite local candidate in the primaries this Aug. 26. The general election will take place Nov. 4. Make your voice heard!

Chandler National Little League didn’t quite make it to Williamsport, Pennsylvania, but it still had notable exhibition games recently when it faced off against a team from Tainan City, Taiwan, at the Snedigar Sportsplex on Aug. 12 and Aug. 14. As part of its visit, the Taiwanese team experienced cultural bonding with Chandler youth and visited professional baseball facilities and the Grand Canyon.

Ann and her friends recently visited Skateland, located

at 1101 W. Ray Rd., in Chandler. Why would this make news, you ask? Ann and her friends are in their 30s, not tweens. Who says old people can’t have a good time?

Is monsoon season over yet? With such a weak start, we never thought it would become as memorable as it has. Cleaning up our yards in the aftermath of the last series of storms to roll through, we can only be thankful that we didn’t end up with a tree on top of our house! What’s the buzz in your neighborhood? New babies or grandbabies? Announcements? Engagements? Let us know! Email hearsay@nearbynews.com.

Smashburger Opening New Location in Tempe

Smashburger will open the doors to its new location at 2010 E. Elliot Rd., Tempe, at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3.

“We are excited to bring another Smashburger’s better burger to Tempe,” said Tom Ryan, Smashburger founder and chief concept officer.

“Satisfying and real, basic and good, affordable and fresh—Smashburger is a place with a burger soul. With a broad menu of handcrafted burgers, chicken, salads, signature sides and handspun shakes, Smashburger has something for everyone, and we are proud to be opening another location in the area.”

This new Smashburger in Tempe will feature a menu created with regional flavors and tastes in mind. The Phoenix menu includes the Arizona Smashburger and chicken sandwich with Habanero cheese, guacamole, lettuce, tomato, onion, chipotle mayo and fresh jalapenos on a spicy chipotle bun. Also included on the regional

menu is the Arizona Cobb Salad with fresh greens, applewood-smoked bacon, sliced jalapenos, guacamole, cheddar cheese, tomatoes and onions topped with spicy chipotle dressing.

At Smashburger, the secret is in the smash, officials said. It starts with 100-percent fresh, never frozen, allnatural certified Angus beef and is smashed on a 400-degree flat grill to sear in the juicy flavor. To further the “better burger” experience, the burgers are served on toasted artisan buns and topped with a selection of the freshest produce, real cheeses, and highest-quality condiments.

For more information, visit www. smashburger.com.

A delicate skill. Repairs in-house.

Makutu’s Island Under New Ownership, Open for Fun

By Tracy House

Children can once again play around the magnificent tree at Makutu’s Island now that new owners have renovated and reopened the Chandler landmark.

Owners Kiran Vedantam and Kiran Bapatla said they worked tirelessly to improve their hometown youth attraction after it closed in January. They spent more than $500,000 in upgrades to the 20,000-square-foot facility.

“The day we got the keys, we started the remodeling,” Vedantam said.

The refurbishing includes painting the animals around tree.

“Luckily we were able to get a good artist. He’s a really talented guy,” Vedantam said.

One of the new features is Captain Jack’s Bungee.

“It’s a bungee for the kids where they’ll get harnessed, and they’ll go up high, like 15 to 25 feet,” Bapatla explained. The bungee experience does have an additional cost to the entry fee.

The makeover includes changing the redemption-and-gaming center to be more open and spacious for parents to watch over kids. Classic games like Pac-Man were added for the parents to enjoy while the kids are playing.

Makutu’s is now offering theater shows, featuring dance, Bollywood entertainment and musicians. Enrichment classes will also be offered to include art and yoga for children during the week.

While the bigger kids have the run of the massive tree with four levels of fun, toddlers 3 and younger have their own area to play with parental supervision. Extra seating has been added for parents to relax while kids frolic throughout the enormous tree with mazes and slides.

The facility offers three different birthday packages in private rooms. Parties can be streamed live for grandparents and family not able to attend.

Besides the usual pizza, Vedantam said , “We’ll have a lot of diverse foods that parents can add if they choose to,” such as Italian, Indian and Asian selections. Gluten-free vegetarian options are also available. “We’re offering a lot of healthy choices.” WiFi and USB outlets are also available for parents who choose to stay all day. The café offers food choices that will include wraps, pizza and other snacks.

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“It’s not just for kids. For parents, we want to make sure they also have an opportunity to decompress,” Vedantam explains.

Safety was the most important concern for Vedantam and Bapatla throughout the refurbishing. “We require that parents be here with the kids, and when they leave we’ll have to check their bands and make sure they’re safe,” Bapatla said.

Admission to Makutu’s Island is $10 plus tax per child, for unlimited play in the main area. Socks are required to play. The first adult admission is free with the child, $5 for the second adult. Club passes are available.

For more information about Makutu’s Island, visit Facebook at www.facebook.com/makutusisland or www.makutusisland.com or call (480) 344-3742. Makutu’s Island is located it 6919 W. Ray Rd., Chandler.

Makutu’s Island owners Kiran Vedantam and Kiran Bapatla with managers Rob Mal and Rich Iwanski in front of the massive Banana Tree centerpiece

Tempe Youth has Major League Talent

By Tim J. Randall

Of all the spectacular moments that Matt Novis and his father, Scott, experienced at Major League Baseball’s Pitch, Hit and Run event in Minneapolis during the July AllStar Game festivities, one will be ingrained in their memory.

As a finalist and winner of the competition’s 13- to 14-year-old age bracket, Matt had the privilege of shagging fly balls at the Home Run Derby at Target Field. During commercial breaks, two high school athletes competed in the derby, usually reserved for the MLB’s top players.

“A 225-pound, 6-1 first baseman from Ontario, Canada, came to the plate and crushed a line drive in Matt’s direction,” Scott explained.

Matt took off, tracking the ball and thinking he had a chance to make a play.

“I thought I could get to it and, at the last moment, I just laid out full and made the catch,” Matt said.

With that great play, the next few seconds were simply amazing, Scott said.

“Over 40,000 fans cheered when they saw Matt make that catch... just incredible.”

Matt’s journey to Target Field started with a local qualifying round and then advancing to sectionals and teams.

“The whole point of events like the Pitch, Hit and Run is to experience and love baseball,” Scott explained.

The team round occurs at each of

the 30 MLB parks, and as Matt entered Chase Field that day with a potential move to the finals, he knew what he wanted. “I just said, ‘I am going to do this.’”

The format of the competition involves three components: six pitches to a target; three hits off a tee for distance; and a timed run from shortstop to home plate.

“Matt was ready. He spent hours and hours practicing in the back yard, hitting in the cage and practicing his throwing.”

When the day was over, Matt’s total proved to be in the top three of his age group across all 30 sites. The journey to Minneapolis was on.

“The real prize is just making it to the finals,” Scott said. Yet, Matt, as with the team round, was on a mission.

The finals saw 24 players in the four age brackets, with boy and girl winners. From a start of more than 625,000 entrants nationwide just a few months earlier, Matt demonstrated the full extent of his baseball skills and his determination.

The entire experience for Scott and Matt included a banquet, a treasure trove of collectibles from MLB, souvenirs and, of course, the chance to watch the All-Star Game on July 15.

At times, Scott was more excited than his son. “Matt’s favorite players are Paul Goldschmidt of the Diamondbacks and Miguel Cabrera of the Tigers. But when I got to meet some of my heroes, Rollie Fingers of the Brewers and Andre Dawson of the Cubs, I was stunned. I laughed, though, because Matt had no idea who they were,” said Scott.

Matt Novis of Tempe took part in Major League Baseball’s Pitch, Hit and Run event during the All-Star Game in Minneapolis.

East Valley Moms

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Preparing Your Child for the First Eye Doctor Visit

By Tracy House

Checking children’s eyesight may seem like something that can wait until they are in school. But developmentally, the sooner children have their eyes evaluated, the better.

Dr. Lisa Mihora, an ophthalmologist with Banner Health, offered some insight for parents about visiting the eye doctor.

Mihora said newborn children should be evaluated if they are born prematurely.

“There is no age that is too early to do an eye exam,” Mihora said.

“If there was an infection or fetal distress during pregnancy, the child should also be seen early on.

“The other question we always have is, ‘What is the family eye history?’ Specifically, what we’re looking for

with that is if there is any history in mom, dad or siblings.”

Strabismus (when the eyes are not properly aligned) and amblyopia (lazy eye) are two hereditary eye conditions.

From the ages birth to 3, unless there is an indication of an eye condition, ophthalmologists rely on the pediatrician for eye care, Mihora said.

“The bottom line, though, is if there’s any question, it’s never too early.”

The American Academy of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus recommends the first official visit should be between ages 3 and 5.

“Prior to starting school is the recommendation,” Mihora said.

She explained the reason for early

screening is to diagnose problems at a younger age.

Preparing a child for an eye doctor visit is important. The first thing the doctor should do is interact with the child. Using “fun” visual tools, the eye doctor can evaluate the child and look for responses to visual cues, moving eyes up and down and left to right.

The next step is to check the child’s 3-D vision.

NearbyNews

to have at least 20/50 to 20/60 in each eye.”

Checking vision one eye at a time and sometimes together using letters, numbers, pictures or tumbling E’s, depending on a child’s verbal skills, is the next step in screening. Next would be a glasses’ prescription check. Later, doctors will dilate the eye to look at the back of it.

Dr. Lisa Mihora

“There will be bunnies jumping off the page,” she said. “If you have good 3-D vision, it’s telling you that both eyes are working really well together, and both eyes have really good vision. Because to see those cues, to know that something is coming off the page at you, you’ve got

“It also helps to look for a glasses’ prescription on a nonverbal child or child less than 1 year old with actually using the drops,” she said.

“There’s actually no age too young to check a glasses’ prescription.” The drops can be traumatic for a child. She

... continues on page 15

Founded in 1949, Grand Canyon University is a private Christian university with over 150 online and campus-based degree programs and concentrations for both traditional students and working professionals. Community college graduates can easily transfer credits toward a bachelor’s degree at Grand Canyon University.

GCU’s campus features:

• Two heated resort-style swimming pools

• Student fitness center

• Six-lane bowling alley

• 7,000-seat GCU Arena (re-opening fall 2014)

• Popular eateries like Chick-fil-A, Subway and Starbucks

Cutie Patooties! mom ¢ents

Is your kid a “cutie patootie”? Of course he is, so submit your baby, toddler or kid photos to the The Nearby News’ Southeast Valley Moms section for a chance to win a restaurant gift certificate. Send high-resolution digital photos to editor@nearbynews. com. Be sure to include your name, your child’s name and age and your phone number. (Don’t worry, phone numbers will not be published.)

It Wasn’t Easy But The Winner Is...

...Maggie Siegel, a camper at Camp Sunrise and Sidekicks! She is the daughter of Matt Siegel and Leslie McCullagh-Siegel. For that photo, they’ll have dinner on us!

By Melissa Hurst

Get More than Free Cake for Your Birthday

You probably already know that you can get a free dessert at many restaurants around the Valley for your birthday. But did you know that you can also pick up a free dinner, complimentary book, or even a free ride at Snowbowl? Just check out the list below for what is available. Before requesting the items, keep this in mind:

• Many of these offers require that you sign up for the emails in advance, so my recommendation is take some time now and sign up for ones that you want online (visit the businesses’ website for more information). When your birthday comes around, you can be surprised with all your new offers.

• Most offers are good for a time period, so you don’t have to get all of them on your actual birthday.

• Offers are subject to change and may not be available at all locations.

• If you don’t see your favorite location here, that does not mean they don’t have something. You can always ask if they have birthday specials at the restaurant or store.

Birthday Freebies:

Abuelo’s: Free dessert

Arby’s: Free milkshake

AMF: Free bowling

Baja Fresh: Free burrito

Bashas’: Free cake for children through age 10

Baskin Robbins: Free ice cream

Benihana: $30 credit (only valid

Monday through Thursday)

Changing Hands Bookstore: $10

credit when you show your ID

CVS: $3 ECB coupon (will be emailed to you)

Dairy Queen: Free Blizzard

Denny’s: Free entree (only on your birthday)

DSW: $5 coupon

Dunkin Donuts: Free coffee

Harkins: Free medium popcorn (must present ID)

IHOP: Free Entrée

Jason’s Deli: Free $5 gift card

Joe’s Crab Shack: Free appetizer

Joe’s Farm Grill: Free birthday surprise

Joe’s Real BBQ: Free meal (up to $10)

Johnny Rockets: Free hamburger

Kona Grill: Free meal (up to $15)

Mimi’s Cafe: $10 off $20 purchase

Qdoba: Free birthday gift

Oregano’s: Free Pazooki

... continues on page 15

Melissa Hurst, a Valley-based deal-hunting savings pro, is also a mom of three. She understands the importance of budgeting and shares her savings tips in her column. Visit www.SavingCentsWithSense.net, where she shares her passion for bargain-hunting and strategies for stretching a budget.

top ten family events

Aug. 15-Sept. 15, 2014

1 Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival

Mickey Mouse and his bands of friends will perform in a musical mash-up of mega proportions during Disney Live!

WHEN: Sat., Sept. 27, and Sun., Sept. 28, at 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.

WHERE: US Airways Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix

COST: $39 to $84

INFO: (800) 745-3000 or www.usairwayscenter.com

2 Kid’s Day Off Activity Showcase and Expo

This family-friendly, free community event will showcase the latest options for area kids on their days off.

WHEN: Sat., Aug. 16, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

WHERE: Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort Hotel Ballroom, One San Marcos Pl., Chandler

COST: Free

INFO: www.eventbrite.com/e/kidsday-off-activity-showcase-expotickets-11719698935

3 Junior Rowing

For kids ages 13 to 18, the program has varsity and novice teams training five days per week in preparation for races that are held nationwide.

WHEN: Monday through Friday, Aug. 18 through Dec. 8, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

WHERE: Tempe Towne Lake Marina, College Avenue and Curry Road, Tempe COST: $450

INFO: (480) 350-8069 or www.tempe. gov/home/showdocument?id=26625

4 Sportball: Parent and Child

The programs will help parents understand proven teaching techniques that can be applied outside of sportball classes.

WHEN: Saturdays, Aug. 30 through Oct. 4, from 9:15 a.m. to 10 a.m.

WHERE: Kiwanis Park Recreation Center, 6111 All-America Way, Tempe COST: $18 to $52

INFO: (480) 350-5201 or www.tempe. gov/home/showdocument?id=26631

5 Gymnastics: Trampoline and Tumbling

Learn basic fundamentals of tumbling using Gold Medal Gym’s Tumble Track Trampoline.

WHEN: Tuesdays, Sept. 2 through Sept. 23, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

WHERE: Gold Medal Gym, 1700 E. Elliot Rd., Suite 9, Tempe

COST: $45

INFO: (480) 350-5200 or www.tempe. gov/home/showdocument?id=26625

6 Breakfast and Books 1

Parents and toddlers will listen as the instructor reads a story and then focuses on a treat that was mentioned in the story.

WHEN: Wednesdays, Sept. 3 through Sept. 25, from 9:15 a.m. to 10 a.m.

WHERE: Escalante Community Center, 2150 E. Orange St., Tempe

COST: $8; free for parents

INFO: (480) 350-5800 or www.tempe. gov/home/showdocument?id=26625

7 Charlotte’s Web

Meet Wilbur, an endearing piglet in grave danger of ending up as pork chops, and Charlotte, the wise and winsome spider who becomes his true friend.

WHEN: Sun., Sept. 7, through Sun., Oct. 12, at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Saturdays, 1 p.m. Sundays WHERE: Tempe Center for the Arts Theater, 700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe

COST: $12 to $25

INFO: (480) 350-4311 or www.tempe.gov

8 Sewing: Mommy and Me

Use basic hand-sewing stitches and machine techniques to create one-of-a-kind projects.

WHEN: Wednesdays, Sept. 10 through Oct. 8, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Pyle Adult Recreation Center, 655 E. Southern Ave., Tempe COST: $39

INFO: (480) 350-5200 or www.tempe. gov/home/showdocument?id=26625

9 “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”

The Big Deal Theater presents “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.”

WHEN: Fri., Sept. 12, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 13, at 7 p.m.

WHERE: Tempe Center for the Arts Studio, 700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe COST: $20

INFO: (480) 350-4311 or www.tempe.gov

10 LEGO: Pre-Engineering

Build cities, bridges, motorized cars and planes.

WHEN: Sat., Sept. 13, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

WHERE: Westside Community Center, 715 W. Fifth St., Tempe COST: $31

INFO: (480) 858-2400 or www.tempe.gov/home/ showdocument?id=26631

Eye Exams

...continued from page 12 asks the parents what is best at that point before administering them.

“The main focus with the child’s eye exam is that both eyes are seeing well and both eyes are equally aligned,” Mihora says.

AAPOS recommends children are checked every year or two, unless the child is having other issues or complaints about his or her vision.

Mihora is an ophthalmologist who was active for 10 years. Her specialty is in ocular facial plastic surgery. For more information, or to find a provider, visit Banner Health at www. bannerhealth.com.

Tracy House is a busy mom of four, freelance writer and educator. She writes about motherhood, family, education, sustainability and Arizona. Contact her at tracy@ timespublications.com

Mom Cents

...continued from page 14

Paletas Betty: Free polenta (must present ID)

Panera Bread: Free pastry (sign up for rewards program)

Red Robin: Free hamburger (may need to register for rewards program in the restaurant)

Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery: Free appetizer

Rubio’s: Free meal up to $7

Ruby Tuesday: Free hamburger

Sephora: Free birthday item (I got free lip gloss last year)

Snowbowl: Free lift ticket on your birthday

Souper Salad: Free salad buffet

Sprinkles: Free cupcake (valid on your birthday only)

Starbucks: Free coffee when sign up for Starbucks Rewards. Your coupon will arrive in the mail three to seven days before your birthday

TCBY: Free frozen yogurt

The Melting Pot: Free chocolatecovered strawberries

around the neighborhood

It’s still hot outside, but kids and parents can cool off at Makutu’s Island. The newly renovated play place offers a colossal tree of mazes, slides and tunnels for kids to explore while parents can relax and watch. Makutu makes an appearance, as well as other performers. Activities have also been added to the venue’s list of fun. Book a birthday, corporate or school party. It’s time to have fun at Makutu’s Island. Photos by Tim Sealy 1. Kylie Ernst catches some air on Capt. Max’s Bungee ride. 2. Denise Denogean keeps a watchful eye out for safety at the end of the 35-foot banana slide. 3. Ethan Greenfield takes the wheel with his brother, Andrew, riding shotgun. 4. Skyler Campos works her way through some of the tunnels and rabbit holes in the banana tree. 5. Chance Bourlier plays in the Toddler Zone while his dad, Mike, looks on. 6. Aiden Detrick pops out of one of the many tunnels and tubes that wind about high above the main level of Makutu’s Island. 7. Laura Taez rides the zip line between the palm slide and banana tree. 8. Chance Bourlier stands awe-struck at the sight of Makutu, himself. 9. Malia Hight concentrates on her skates, she doesn’t want to fall. 10. Griffin Guzman crawls his way to the banana tree through a tunnel that is high above the floor. 11. A puppet show in the Jungle Jamboree Theatre has all eyes forward. 10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11

Tempe Union Teacher Appointed to O’Connor’s Teachers Council

By Jill Hanks, Tempe Union High School District

Lisa Adams loves civic education, and she’s made it her mission to engage others in the subject she believes is as important as math and science.

The Corona del Sol teacher is a selfdescribed “government geek” who has been known to show up at school wearing colonial attire to celebrate Constitution Day.

Adams shares her passion for government with a civic icon—retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. And for a second time, O’Connor’s nonprofit, iCivics, has chosen Adams to serve on its National Teachers Council.

O’Connor founded iCivics, the country’s leading civic education program, when, after retiring in 2006, she discovered a staggering number of students in middle school and high school did not have a basic understanding of the U.S. government system and the importance of citizen participation.

“By design, government and the

democratic process belong to each and every citizen...If a single child is not learning about civics, then all of our lives are the poorer,” O’Connor said.

Adams, who was first appointed to the council in 2011, said she is honored to be chosen again to serve. She joins just 23 other teachers nationwide who come together as a network of support for educators preparing the next generation of students to become knowledgeable and engaged citizens.

O’Connor works with the National Teachers Council to develop free lesson plans, award-winning games and interactive educational materials to make civic education easier for students to understand and easier for teachers to use. More than 40,000 educators and 3 million students use iCivics curriculum, which is grouped into topical units that align to state and Common Core standards. According to O’Connor, this has been and continues to be her most important work.

Feeling a connection not only over a shared love for government, but growing up in Arizona, Adams calls O’Connor a huge inspiration and is excited to be a part of her organization.

“It’s an honor and hopefully a shot in the arm...to get civic education reinvigorated in the system.”

Adams has taught in the Tempe Union High School District since 1998 and is a graduate of McClintock High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona and her master’s degree in education from Arizona State University.

In addition to teaching at Corona del Sol High School, Adams oversees the school’s Model UN club, which promotes awareness of global issues and provides students the opportunity to simulate the work of the United Nations.

She also serves as an assistant coach for Corona del Sol’s successful “We the People” team, a competition government team which has won five of the last six state championships and finished ninth in the country at the 2014 National Championship in Washington, D.C. The event consisted of three days of simulated congressional hearings that tested students’ knowledge of the U.S Constitution and Bill of Rights.

Pencils, Parents, Precepts and Practicalities

If you have more than one child, you know how different they can be from each other

One child will breeze through school with a love and passion for learning while another child does not seem to have the same intrinsic motivation to learn.

One child naturally embraces responsibility with enthusiasm while the other needs constant nudging to organize and follow through with school commitments. Each child’s needs are unique

In the face of these differences parents sometimes make the mistake of compartmentalizing behaviors at home as unrelated to successful academics at school. In fact, the two are strongly linked Behavior and academics do have a very strong positive correlation Therefore, it is essential to bridge this gap with practical strategies that will motivate your child to succeed in school. That old adage that knowledge is power applies here, too Over the following months, we will provide you with some out-of-the-ordinary ideas ideas that have staying power to produce lasting results for your

child Some will be unique while others you may already be familiar with, yet have underestimated their value

Equipping you to empower your child to do well in school is our goal Look for each of the following strategies to be discussed at length in future articles

These articles will provide information to help your child to develop Executive Functioning Skills

Teach your child Executive Function skills

Executive Functions are skills that direct certain high functioning abilities which include: starting or stopping actions, monitoring and changing behavior as needed, planning, organizing, memorizing, focusing, flexibility and emotional control As the name implies, executive functions are the “managing directors” that govern a host of other abilities They are learned and require discipline to acquire. We will show you how to help your child perfect these skills

Enable your child to learn successful test-taking strategies. You will learn the tools to help your child become a more effective test-taker. We’ll cover various components such as proper time management, sorting information learned in class and applying that information to test questions Students can learn strategies which will allow them to approach exams in a prepared, calm and confident manner

Assist your child to become more productive and focused during homework time Homework assists in the development of self-directed learning skills Parental assistance with homework and parental modeling can foster behaviors involved in homework management which lead to higher student achievement Parents who implement these

suggestions will achieve two important desired outcomes: Your child’s academics will improve and your relationship with your child will grow stronger Learn effective teacher/parent communication that will enhance your child’s progress. There are a number of ways parents and teachers can communicate with each other effectively, rather than just relying on the scheduled parent-teacher conferences “Intentional” communication will accomplish amazing results and your child will benefit What is important to your child’s teacher? What is most important to you in these essential encounters? We will explore it all

Support your child’s IQ development.

For decades researchers have pondered whether IQ (Intelligence Quotient) can be manipulated or is it simply a static product of our DNA and therefore unalterable We will talk about recent research and explore the adult behaviors that make a difference in your child’s IQ. If IQ is not static, what are effective ways to enhance your child’s IQ?

Teach your child strategies to learn math concepts. Math is now one of the most important subjects taught beginning in preschool. We will discuss the best ways to go over work to correct answers; how to use problem solving to understand math content not yet introduced, and other tips

Help your child have healthy “Mindsets ”

Children with a fixed mindset believe that learning rests on their ability to ‘ prove how smart they are, ’ while children who develop a flexible or growth mindset believe that their ability is flexible and developed through learning The healthier mindset is one is open to learn

Model and teach practical winning behaviors that yield life-long results. These are the seemingly simple lessons which are often underestimated by parents It is here that we will drive home the importance of behavioral expectations that begin with you We will help you to establish a plumb line or reference point to measure daily improvement of your child s behavior resulting in a favorable academic outcome

Just as parents have many responsibilities at home, at work and in the community, learning is your child’s most important job These tools will empower you to more effectively support your child’s educational pursuits and replace your own out-dated precepts with parent empowerment. We invite you to not only clip these articles but to establish a file for future reference Please let us hear from you, as well, through our Blog at www newvistasblog com

Carol Elias is Co-Director of New Vista Center for Education, a private preschool and elementary school located in Chandler and serving the East Valley for 35 years New Vistas has been designated a Top Ten School by Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth

Lisa Adams, left, and Sandra Day O’Connor pose for a photo during an Our Courts meeting in 2007 in Washington, D.C. Our Courts is the former name of iCivics.

Carol Elias

on the town

By Lynette Carrington VinciTorio’s

VinciTorio’s is a little slice of Italy... and heaven. The adorably decorated restaurant has a dining room, winebar section and private events/party room and no matter where you choose to eat, you’re in for a delectable adventure.

On our family’s dinner visit, we sat in the wine-bar section that is decorated with an ornate wine wall. Starting with the complimentary basket of warm, perfectly seasoned garlic bread, we were quickly whisked away on an Italian culinary journey.

We spotted eggplant rolls ($9.95) on the appetizers menu and decided it was unusual enough to warrant a taste. This could easily serve as an appetizer or main dish and, was inarguably, the best eggplant we’ve had. It included sliced eggplant rolled with ricotta, fresh basil, roasted red peppers, baked with marinara sauce and topped with mozzarella. The appetizer disappeared faster that you can say, “Mangia.”

and I didn’t get to fully explore the expansive 150-plus bottle-wine list, but we did order the Alexander Valley Vineyards “Temptation” Zinfandel (bottle, $24).

What’s Cooking?

By Jan D’Atri

Italian Crème Cake

I love this recipe. Love, love, love it. Elaine Nall’s Italian Crème Cake is just plain crazy out-of-this-world delicious. Period.

Next was the quattro stagioni, meaning “four seasons,” pizza (medium, $17). The handcrafted, stone deck oven-baked pizza’s toppings were divided into different sections on the pizza and featured ham, artichokes, mushrooms, sausage and cheese. This is a pizza that pleased everyone at the table because there were several choices of toppings all on one pizza pie.

All dry pasta at VinciTorio’s is imported from Italy, and fresh pasta is made on-site daily. Our table fought over the ravioli carbonara ($16.95) which is chicken and sausage stuffed pasta pillows covered with cream sauce and sautéed bacon.

We were so enamored with the exceptional food that my husband

Owner and chef Mario VinciTorio ushered us into the kitchen where he demonstrated his mastery of making homemade pasta and, within 10 minutes, that very pasta was served up with mild sauce of ground sausage, red and green peppers, onions and mushrooms as a treat for our table. By now, we were getting stuffed and preparing to fill our respective “hollow legs” with the remainder of our outstanding dinner. The trofie al pesto ($17.95) was next to our table and was short, rolled pasta (piggy-tail pasta as labeled by my kids) with grilled chicken and sundried tomatoes served in a creamy pesto sauce and sprinkled with pine nuts. After this dish, everyone in our family immediately had VinceTorio’s private events room ear-marked for our next party. Chef VinciTorio and his wife, Ginger, have simply created Italian magic with their outstanding restaurant.

Next, our hollow legs came in handy as we ordered dream bomba dessert ($8.95). The dessert boasted a caramel-filled, peanut butter gelato coated in milk chocolate and drizzled with peanut butter and more caramel. We would have kept going, but were stuffed to the gills. We’ll definitely be returning soon.

1835 E. Elliot Rd., Suite C-109 Tempe, 85284 (480) 820-2786 or www.vincitoriosrestaurant.com

I got my hands on it a few years ago, and it’s always on my short list of favorite desserts. The recipe was given to Elaine, a longtime Scottsdale educator, more than 40 years ago, and it has withstood the “friends and family favorite” test of time.

It’s apparently the most requested dessert at Nall family birthdays, anniversaries, holiday gatherings and even at Elaine’s church group—the one that has met for four decades every Christmas for a white elephant

Italian Crème Cake

2 cups flour

2 cups white sugar

1 stick butter (1/2 cup), softened 1/2 cup butter-flavored shortening

5 eggs, separated

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/3 cups flaked coconut (use up to 2 cups if desired.)

• Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

• Grease three 8-inch round cake pans. (Line with parchment paper if desired)

• Set aside.

• Separate eggs and beat egg whites to form still peaks.

• Put sugar, butter and shortening in mixing bowl and blend until fluffy.

• Add vanilla and yolks to batter and blend well.

• Add baking soda to buttermilk and let set for a few minutes (needs to be in a container larger than 1 cup because it will foam).

• Add flour and buttermilk alternately into mixture until blended. Do not overbeat.

• Add coconut and mix until incorporated into batter.

• Fold egg whites into batter.

• Pour batter into the three 8-inch cake pans, spread batter evenly.

sale. I’m just happy that when daughter-in-law Donna Nall quietly mentioned to me that Elaine was famous in the family for this cake, I paid attention.

In between three ever-so-richtasting layers of buttermilk cake is a luscious slather of cream cheese and pecan icing. The combination is either perfectly sinful or heavenly; I just haven’t quite decided which. Now that we’re heading into fall harvest and baking season, Elaine’s Italian Crème Cake is a must! A big thanks to Donna for sharing a family treasure. And, Elaine is not Italian, but a true Texan, so, “Buon appetito, y’all!”

• Bake at 325 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until done. Cool in pans for 10 minutes and remove to wire rack to cool completely.

Cream Cheese Frosting

2 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese softened to room temperature

1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, softened

1 (1 pound) box powdered sugar

2 cups chopped pecans

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Put cream cheese, butter and powdered sugar in mixer. Blend until creamy.

• Add vanilla and chopped nuts. Add frosting in between cake layers and then frost top and sides.

Note: This cake is delicious cold, so it can be made in advance. It also freezes well.

VinciTorio’s eggplant rolls are made of sliced eggplant with rocotta, fresh basil, roasted red peppers and marinara sauce topped with mozzarella. They pair well with many of the wines on the extensive menu.

events calendar

Aug. 15-Sept. 15, 2014

Swedish Crayfish Party

The all-you-can-eat smorgasbord features items such as hardboiled eggs with mayo and shrimp shell on prawn with cocktail sauce, crayfish, najad salmon with horseradish or mustard sauce and cheese pie.

WHEN: Fri., Aug. 15, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., or 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

WHERE: IKEA Tempe, 2110 W. IKEA Way, Tempe COST: $2.49 to $12.99 INFO: (480) 785-8209

Men vs. Women: A Comedic Town Hall Debate

A comedic panel of uninformed experts take on marriage, equal pay, gender equality and who is supposed to put the toilet seat down.

WHEN: Fri., Aug. 15, at 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Tempe Center for the Arts Studio, 700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe COST: $10 to $25 INFO: (480) 350-4311 or www.tempe.gov

Hands-Only CPR

The lecture will feature a practical instruction session.

WHEN: Sat., Aug. 16, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

WHERE: Tempe Public Library, 3500 S. Rural Rd., Tempe COST: Free INFO: (480) 350-5500 or www.tempe.gov/library

Nonfiction Writing Workshop

The workshop, with Conrad J. Storad, is a beginner’s guide for teachers, parents and grandparents who work with young writers and readers. WHEN: Wed., Aug. 20, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

WHERE: Tempe Public Library, 3500 S. Rural Rd., Tempe COST: Free INFO: (480) 350-5500 or www.tempe.gov/library

Murder, Mystery and the West

Three award-winning authors will discuss their books.

WHEN: Thurs., Aug. 21, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

WHERE: Tempe Public Library, 3500 S. Rural Rd., Tempe

COST: Free

INFO: (480) 350-5500 or www.tempe.gov/library

Latino Comedy Fest with Guillermo Robles

Robles highlights his south-of-theborder heritage when he and a host of his funny Latino friends come together to make everyone laugh.

WHEN: Fri., Aug. 22, at 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Tempe Center for the Arts Studio, 700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe

COST: $10 to $25

INFO: (480) 350-4311 or www.tempe.gov

Tempe Rocks

The all-ages show features The Pistoleros, Banana Gun, Old Jack City, Teneia and the Maybees.

WHEN: Sat., Aug. 23, at 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Tempe Center for the Arts Theater, 700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe

COST: $15 to $20

INFO: (480) 350-4311 or www.tempe.gov

Stand-Up Paddling Introduction

Join the fastest-growing watersport in the country. No experience necessary.

WHEN: Tues., Sept. 2, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., other classes scheduled throughout the fall

WHERE: SRP Town Lake Marina, College Avenue and Curry Road, Tempe

COST: $27

INFO: (480) 350-8069 or www.tempe. gov/home/showdocument?id=26625

Dance Sampler

This 10-week class will let individuals try different dance styles, such as salsa, two-step, cha-cha, line dance and swing.

WHEN: Tuesdays, Sept. 2, through Nov. 4, from 7:45 p.m. to 9 p.m.

WHERE: North Tempe MultiGenerational Center, 1555 N. Bridalwreath St., Tempe COST: $50

INFO: (480) 350-5287 or www.tempe. gov/home/showdocument?id=26625

Gregg Hurwitz

Gregg Hurwitz is a New York Times best-selling author and comic book writer.

WHEN: Thurs., Sept. 4, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

WHERE: Tempe Public Library, 3500 S. Rural Rd., Tempe COST: Free INFO: (480) 350-5500 or www.tempe.gov/library

“27 Steps from Idea to Published”

Ann Videan, literary architect, author and editor, offers a trio of interactive workshops to guide individuals through every step of the bookcreation process. Series continues with “Editing Tips to Wow a Publisher” on Sept. 13, and “Market Outside the Book” on Sept. 20.

WHEN: Sat., Sept. 6, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

WHERE: Tempe Public Library, 3500 S. Rural Rd., Tempe COST: Free INFO: (480) 350-5500 or www.tempe.gov/library

Kayak: Moonlight Kayak

Spend an evening on Tempe Town Lake while paddling in the moonlight.

WHEN: Fri., Sept. 5, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

WHERE: SRP Town Lake Marina, College Avenue and Curry Road, Tempe

COST: $30

INFO (480) 350-8069 or www.tempe. gov/home/showdocument?id=26625

9/11

Heroes Run

The 9/11 Heroes Run, 5K and a 1-mile fun run or walk welcomes runners and walkers of all ages.

WHEN: Sat., Sept. 6, at 8 a.m.

WHERE: Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe

COST: $30 to $100

INFO: www.travismanion.org/ tmf_911run_race/tempe-911-heroesrun/

Exercise: 20/20/20 Fitness Express

Complete an overall body core training workout, which targets the three major components of fitness: 20 minutes of cardio, 20 minutes of strength training, followed by 20 minutes of flexibility and stretching.

WHEN: Mondays Sept. 8 through Dec. 8, from 7 p.m. to 7:50 p.m.

WHERE: Pyle Adult Recreation Center, 655 E. Southern Ave., Tempe

COST: $65

INFO: (480) 350-5200 or www.tempe. gov/home/showdocument?id=26625

Guitarist Peter Biedermann

Peter Biedermann is an instrumental guitarist based in Green Valley who has been composing and performing for more than 35 years.

WHEN: Wed., Sept. 10, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Tempe Public Library Connections Cafe, 3500 S. Rural Rd., Tempe

COST: Free

INFO: www.peterbiedermann. com or www.tempe.gov/home/ showdocument?id=26625

Healing Field

Tempe will honor the nearly 3,000 victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks at its 11th annual Healing Field tribute at Tempe Beach Park.

WHEN: Wed., Sept. 10, through Sat., Sept. 13, from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.

WHERE: Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe

COST: Free

INFO: www.Tempe.gov/HealingField

business spotlight

By Lynette Carrington

Wright Orthodontics

Get the ‘Wright’ Smile with Orthodontics for Children and Adults

Often, the first thing you notice about someone is their smile. With the advancements in orthodontics, anyone can achieve a lovely and perfect smile with a variety of techniques that match an individual’s own unique needs and lifestyle. Dr. Jack Wright has been making the Valley smile since 2005.

With so many effective choices in braces, there is a solution for children, teens and adults. “We use traditional metal braces, clear braces and something called self-ligating brackets (offering reduced friction), Invisalign and Invisalign Teen,” Wright said.

Invisalign has emerged as an incredibly popular treatment in straightening teeth in the past decade. It uses a series of clear, removable and comfortable teeth aligners that are virtually invisible. An added benefit is that brushing and flossing are not a challenge. After a series of aligners, the teeth move gradually. Invisalign is a great choice for some patients’ needs. “Come in for a consultation, and I will help you determine if Invisalign is the best option for your orthodontic needs,” Wright suggested.

Wright Orthodontics features another state-of-the-art advancement. “You’ll never have to experience an

uncomfortable dental impression in our office. Our new Itero scanner eliminates that hassle,” Wright explained. “It’s a valuable piece of equipment because it captures a sharper image of your teeth than what has been previously available, without any mess.”

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist around the age of 8, because some orthodontic issues are best treated with early intervention. On the other end of the spectrum, Wright explained that you’re never too old to consider a teeth-straightening treatment.

“The age of patients has definitely changed. We are beginning to see more adults seeking treatment than ever before,” Wright explained.

“We accept most insurance policies, and we also provide 0 percent financing,” Wright noted. “Our staff is highly qualified, and we treat our patients like family.”

Wright Orthodontics has offices at 1118 N. Val Vista Dr., and 453 W. Fifth St., Mesa, with additional locations in Chandler, Litchfield Park and Peoria. Visit www.wrightortho.com or call (480) 969-1514 for additional information.

expensive homes

SOLD FOR $989,000

2500 block of East Teakwood Place, Chandler

James L. and Susan R. Mello purchased this 5,165-square-foot home built in 2001 at Chandler’s Circle G subdivision. The four-bedroom, three-anda-half bathroom home features coffered ceilings, hand-painted details and rich alder woods. There is all-natural flagstone flooring in the main living spaces, elaborate chef’s kitchen with granite countertops and a built-in wood-paneled refrigerator. The oversized patio overlooks a pool with a rock waterslide, grotto area and swim-up bar. For outdoor enthusiasts, there is a putting green and an in-ground trampoline. The home was sold by David J. Beebe. The property was listed by U.S. Preferred Realty.

SOLD FOR $980,000

2300 block of East Elmwood Place, Chandler

Ali and Katherine K. Ebrahimi purchased this 4,900-square-foot house built in 2003 in Chandler’s Circle G subdivision. The four-bedroom, three-anda-half bathroom home features stone and marble accents, highly polished travertine floors, hard core interior doors, and butted glass window in sunken living room. The lush backyard includes Pebble Tec pool and spa, and built-in barbecue. The home was sold by Steven and Lisa Serra. The property was listed by ProSmart Realty.

SOLD FOR $975,000 640 block of West Aster Court, Chandler

Robert Caldwell and Julie Ann Overcash purchased this 5,167-square-foot home built in 2005 at Chandler’s Ocotillo East-Santorini Shores subdivision. The six-bedroom, five-and-a-half bathroom home features exquisite lake and mountain views, 85 linear feet of waterfront, four fireplaces and a self-contained guest suite. It also boasts a great room, library/office/bar, formal and informal living and dining areas, master bedroom with sitting area, and a dock. Details of the sale were unavailable. The home was listed by Red Brick Realty.

The East Valley’s Priciest Recently Sold Homes

Dr. Jack Wright and staff of Wright Orthodontics welcome you to the “Wright” smile.

PET SERVICES

EMBARK PET CARE

WALK, FEED, WATER, PLAY AND STAY!!

Pet sitting, dog walking, general pet care House sitting, errands and more! Reasonable Rates/Quality Care

Rated “A” on Angie’s List East Valley 480-861-8614

POOL SERVICES

CLEANING & REPAIR

Are Professionalism, Customer Service and Innovation important to you?

Then call Scott to schedule an appointment or to discuss your individual POOL CLEANING or REPAIR NEEDS. Call: 602-273-6800 or Visit: www.myPoolValet.com

WANTED TO BUY

By Jeff Breese at Flores Wealth Management

Retirement Planning for Your Small Business

It’s been argued many times (with much success) that small businesses are the backbone of our U.S. economy. Many successful business owners spend their time and talent creating a business that rivals their larger competitors. One area that small businesses are often lagging in, as compared to larger peers, is providing a retirement plan sufficient to meet the long-term financial needs of both the owner

and the employees of the business. This article focuses on identifying some options available to small business owners (and is by no means comprehensive). Many owners aren’t aware of the multitude of plan options available to them and their flexibility.

Before selecting a retirement plan, owners need to define the goals of any plan they implement. Does the owner want:

We help clients pursue their goals by identifying ﬁnancial needs, developing a plan and managing their wealth.

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• To maximize the amount that can be saved?

• A plan funded by employer contributions? By employee contributions? Both?

• A plan that allows pretax and/or Roth contributions?

• The flexibility to skip employer contributions in some years?

• A low-cost plan? Easy administration?

The answers to these questions can help guide business owners to the plan most appropriate for their company.

A

SEP (Simplified Employee Pension) IRA allows the owner to set up an IRA for themselves and each eligible employee. The business must contribute a uniform percentage of pay for each employee, not necessarily every year, offering some flexibility when the business changes year to year. For 2014, contributions for each employee are limited to the lesser of 25 percent of pay or $52,000. Most employers can establish a SEP with little headache as they have low startup costs and minimal paperwork. A Simple IRA is available to companies with 100 employees or less. Employees can elect pretax contributions in 2014 of up to $12,000 ($14,500 if age 50 or older). Owners must either match your employees’ contributions dollar for dollar—up to 3 percent of each employee’s compensation—or make a fixed contribution of 2 percent of compensation for each eligible employee. (The 3 percent match can be reduced to 1 percent in any two of five years). Each employee who earned $5,000 or more in any two prior years, and who is expected to earn at least $5,000 in the current year must be allowed to participate. Again, setup is fairly easy and costs are minimal to run the plan.

The 401k plan has become a popular retirement savings vehicle for small businesses. In a 401k, employees can make contributions in 2014 of up to $17,500 of pay ($23,000 if age 50 or older). These deferrals go into a separate account for each employee under the plan. The company can also make contributions to the

401k—either matching contributions or profit-sharing contributions. Combined employer and employee contributions for any employee in 2014 can’t exceed the lesser of $52,000 (plus catch-up contributions of up to $5,500 if age 50+) or 100 percent of compensation. Employers can control employee entry into the plan via eligibility parameters and can control employer contributions through vesting schedules. A 401k has more administrative and recordkeeping requirements than the plans listed above. A 401k can be set up for businesses with as little as one employee (i.e., the business owners themselves), often called a solo 401k. Adding a retirement plan to the list of benefits offered for business owners and their employees is usually good long-term. Options exist for almost every business from small to large, start-up to highly profitable. Consulting with a qualified financial advisor or plan administrator can help identify what type of retirement plan works best for each owner.

Flores Wealth Management is an Independent Firm. Securities are offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Any opinions are those of Jeff Breese and not necessarily those of Raymond James. We are located at 2370 W. Ray Rd., Suite 2, Chandler, AZ 85224. You can reach us by calling (480) 820-0705, and we invite you to visit our website www.floreswealth. com. Material in this article provided with permission by Pinnacle Equity Solutions Inc., ©2010