Neighbors
Barber ‘Papa Joe’ still razor sharp
BY KEN ABRAMCZYK
Papa Joe’s Barber Shop is a throwback to the 1960s.
Razor cuts and shaves with a straight razor are available. Gracing the walls are photographs of Papa Joe with celebrities or attending special events, and articles about him.
Joseph “Papa Joe” Lazzara, who owned the shop until he sold it to his son, Joseph Lazzara Jr., considers the shop-and himself-old school, but he isn’t afraid to try a new idea. Watching how his concepts took off throughout his career would make any marketing director envious.
Lazzara created his first big media splash in 1984, the year before he moved here. Lazzara noticed parents would bring their sons into his Chicago shop for their first haircut, then document that benchmark moment of life.
“They would take a photo of it, and I thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be nice to capture that on video?’” Lazzara said. He came up with idea of videotaping a child’s first haircut.
Soon the Chicago Sun-Times heard about it and published a story, then it was reported on ABC’s “Good Morning America” and in USA Today. Business boomed and Lazzara had to expand. “My place was too small,” Lazzara said. He relocated to Arizona the following year, but the video idea didn’t take off. “It just didn’t go as well as I hoped, it didn’t happen. Video kind of died down.”
So Lazzara eventually moved into designs of hair, namely cutting hair and coloring it, as patriotic customers wanted their hairstyles to resemble the American flag. He expanded his designs to include company logos, sports teams, brand names and seasonal themes.
Lazzara will add color to bring out the work. “You need dark or thick hair, but not white hair,” Lazzara said. He recently worked on a woman’s hair of white and put in colors.
Lazzara works part-time in the
afternoons there at the Chandler shop. He reflected on his life as a barber.
Lazzara started cutting hair at age 14 in Italy. In 1958, his family emigrated to the United States and landed in Chicago. He needed his barber’s license. Because he didn’t know English, he needed an interpreter to help him with the papers. He persevered, eventually owning his own shop on the south side of Chicago.
Ocotillo Village serves up racquet sports to counteract workout rut
Whether it’s the never-ending Stairmaster or the endless running on a treadmill, all workout enthusiasts have encountered it—burnout.
Sometimes it’s hard to find that motivation to workout, especially after using the same equipment day after day. Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa in Chandler recognizes this. With a variety of racquet sports from squash, racquetball and tennis, it’s the perfect opportunity to try something new. Ponder this interesting fact: A
200-pound male playing squash for one hour burns 1,143 calories. That same man playing racquetball will burn 907 calories in one hour of play.
Jogging or walking on a treadmill for an hour clocks in at around 370 to 450 calories. Racquet sports not only offer a better opportunity to burn those calories, but time will definitely go by faster.
The Ocotillo Village provides a new state-of-the-art facility for racquet sports and even supplies racquets, balls and
Carlo and Emilie’s Gourmet Deli serves up a taste of Europe
BY JUDI KING
Carlo Ventura and Emilie Frances linked their European backgrounds and mutual love of cooking to create Carlo and Emilie’s Gourmet Deli, an Italian restaurant with French flair.
They share those traits, sure. But they’re markedly different. Ventura is in his 60s, while Frances is four decades younger and trained as an optician.
The Italian-born Ventura began his career in the hotel and restaurant business in Italy.
“I worked the winter months in the mountains and the summer months by the lakes in Italy,” he said.
He honed his culinary skills for three years in Paris before moving to the
United States in 1974. He remained in the hospitality industry, working at four- and five-star resorts, ranging from the famed Copley Plaza in Boston to the Wigwam in Litchfield Park. Ventura spent time with the prestigious L’Auberge de Sedona before moving to the Valley, where he managed Bernard’s at Ocotillo Golf Resort for 15 years.
It was there that Ventura met Frances, who had only been in the United States a short time.
“We became friends because he can speak French,” she said.
Frances grew up cooking in her family’s kitchen in the south of France by the Mediterranean Sea.
Ling & Louie’s celebrates National Noodle Month with special menu
The menu includes dishes that focus on highlighting the East-meets-West heritage of the restaurant through a variety of noodle dishes. Among some of the highlighted creations on the menu are green curry mac and cheese, and The Crying Dragon, a spicy dish with udon noodles, beef, mushrooms and a mix of chilies. Guests can also enjoy the light and flavorful shrimp and mango salad, the
Ling & Louie’s is offering a specialty menu in celebration of March’s National Noodle Month at its Arizona locations in Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino as well as Scottsdale.
Artist Diana Madaras to introduce new painting page 60
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Carlo Ventura makes mozzarella from scratch. Submitted photo
Joseph “Papa Joe” Lazzara shows off his finished work. STSN photo by Tim Sealy
Emilie Frances shows off her special quiche. Submitted photo
After relocating to Arizona, Joe cut hair at a location in Phoenix. He opened a shop in Chandler before moving it to its current location at Palm Centre Court, located on the southeast corner of North Hartford and West Warner Road, just west of Arizona Avenue.
“Now that I’ve done these [hair designs] for the last 17 years, I’ve been known as ‘Papa Joe,’” Lazzara said. “Now I’m ready to turn the torch over to my son, now I’ll work a few hours. I’ll do this as long as I am healthy. For years, it’s been a kind of a pleasure to be here and be recognized for my work.”
Lazzara is also known for his generosity. During the economic downturn when many customers were out of work, he offered haircuts to the unemployed who could not afford them. He recently also offered Powerball tickets when the jackpot grew to $500 million. “If they win, at least it will be a landmark where they got the ticket,” Lazzara said.
Lazzara said he believed he is passing the shop onto some good hands. Other barbers on staff with his son and himself are Alex Mullakandov and Marvin Callahan, both of who are talented, Lazzara said.
Joe Ament of Chandler, owner of Joe’s Mobile Gym, frequents the shop. “I’ve been getting my haircuts here since I moved here from Pittsburgh 13 years ago,” Ament said. “It’s the only place I go to.” Ament also brought his son in for his first haircut, too. “It’s the attention to detail,” Ament said about the shop and why he remains a loyal customer.
Papa Joe still comes in five days a
week, though it is only in the afternoon, and usually after 2:30 p.m. Papa Joe said customers leave it up to him to decide on the haircut unless they have an idea of how they want the hair to look. “They say, ‘You’re the pro,’” Lazzara said.
Lazzara touts the razor cut that is available, along with the shave with a straight razor. While the razor may be a throwback to the 1950s and 1960s, customers still enjoy getting one. “It lasts longer, it looks better and the shorter hair and layers is a lot more manageable.”
The shop also services with shampoos and styles. “We do the facial shaves with hot towels,” Lazzara said. “We charge a little more for the shaves than the haircuts.
“It’s a dying art but we still do it with a straight razor.” Lazzara likens that service to men like a pedicure for women. “[The shave] is the old tradition of a barber, and what we were known to be.”
Men enjoy hanging out in the barber shop. “The men feel free to talk about sports or politics. You always see that we have elections, and you can go into the barbershop and take a survey on who will win,” Lazzara said. “They can feel free about [their opinions].”
Lazzara isn’t afraid to seek attention from the news media. Lazzara will contact local media to pitch his business or talk about the shop and his customers. “I’m a self promoter, I’m a good barber and I like to be in the spotlight,” Lazzara said. “I did it for the business. They read it and it brings customers in.”
Of his mementos, Lazzara enjoys the photo of him with Jay Leno, whom he met three years ago at Leno’s studio in California.
Lazzara joked with Leno. “I told
Joseph “Papa Joe” Lazzara cuts hair and creates designs of sports teams, company logos and the American flag into his customers’ hairstyles. He recently cut this man’s hair with a design celebrating the NFL’s 50th Super Bowl. STSN photo by Tim Sealy
him that we both have something in common,” Lazzara said. “‘You’re Italian, I’m Italian, you have gray hair, I have gray hair, you’re filthy rich and I’m halfway there.”
Anyone who wants an appointment with Papa Joe can call the shop first to see when he will be in that day. He calls it a “semi-appointment.”
Papa Joe said he is not retiring any time soon. “Someone should use me on one of those barber’s commercials. You turn on the TV and you always see a barber. I always thought I could be that barber in that commercial,” Lazzara said.
Papa Joe’s Barber Shop is located at 393 W. Warner Rd., Chandler. For more information, call (480) 963-2112 or visit www.joeschandlerbarbershop.com.
eyeguards for guests. Some of the top instructors are available for guidance; squash pro Jesse Giron and tennis player Josh Bates are among them. Racquetball director Jim Winterton is a National Hall of Fame coach and has led three undefeated teams in the Pan-Am games for the USA. He has coached students between the ages of 6 and 70, and from recreational athletes to pros. He is coaching the No. 1-ranked male pro and No. 3-ranked female pro.
Ocotillo Village Health Club is located at 4200 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler. For more information, visit www.villageclubs. com.
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Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa in Chandler offers a variety of racquet sports from squash, racquetball and tennis. Submitted photo
The pair, along with business partner, Fred Hatfield, opened Carlo and Emilie’s Gourmet Deli with the idea of bringing an authentic deli experience to the Valley. It is set up like a true European deli with imported meats and cheeses and scrumptious pastries and desserts displayed in glass cases, with a handful of tables inside and a patio to handle the overflow.
The charismatic Ventura typically greets customers at the door offering suggestions and samples. On Saturdays, guests receive complimentary slices of Stromboli—a delicious, freshly made bread with olives, roasted peppers and herbs.
Even though the deli does not open until 10 a.m., Ventura arrives every morning at 5:15. After he arrives, he bakes loaves of bread and prepare homemade mozzarella, meatballs, pasta sauces, ravioli, soup and homemade sausage.
“It’s a lot of work,” he said. “But, I love people. I want to give my customers the very best. I only serve food that I would want to eat.”
Frances is usually behind the counter where she describes the dishes, talks about the daily specials and helps customers choose from the huge selection of sandwiches, soups and pastas on the chalkboard menu. There is a lot from which to choose.
Fourteen hot sandwiches are available, ranging in price from $6.25 to $13.95. My husband chose the homemade pork sausage sautéed in onions, peppers, tomato and olive oil on a baguette ($6.50/$9.75). It lived up to the hype it has received in local media. I went with Ventura’s meatballs with provolone and tomato sauce on a baguette ($6.25/$9.95).
We ordered half sandwiches which were so big, neither of us could finish.
The cold sandwich menu features 10 different offerings--$6.25 for a half sandwich or $9.95 for full sized—all traditional Italian favorites such as salami, prosciutto and mortadella and sopressata, capicola and asiago cheese, served on your choice of bread with lettuce, tomato, onions, garlic roasted peppers, mustard and homemade vinaigrette.
The pasta menu features standards such as eggplant parmigiana ($10.50), meat lasagna ($10.50) and potato gnocchi ($9.95)—all authentically prepared and delicious with a choice of one of the eight homemade sauces. One of the most popular choices is mascarpone- and butternut squash-filled ravioli with fresh sage and quasi-burned butter ($9.95). I ordered this as a takeout and was absolutely amazed at how differently delectable it was.
The soup choices change daily, with the exception of Friday when Ventura serves his amazing crab cappuccino soup. Desserts also change daily and might include luscious cheesecake, crème brulee, strawberry tarts, cannoli and tiramisu, whipped up by Frances. Check out their Facebook page for all of their novel daily specials,
Carlo and Emilie’s Gourmet Deli is the real deal—the go-to place for anyone wanting truly innovative and authentic freshly prepared Italian food, with a French twist.
Carlo and Emilie’s Gourmet Deli is located at 2040 S. Alma School Rd. Suite 12, (480) 786-4019, www. gourmetdelichandler.com, www.facebook. com/gourmetdelichandleraz.
Beijing duck noodles, garlic pepper noodles and the ginger-sake soba noodles.
Each of the items in this noodle ensemble is crafted to give guests, old and new, a taste of the restaurant’s Asian fusion and American comfort union.
“Noodles are a big deal in Asian-inspired dishes, of course, and of other types of pasta make for really great comfort food so naturally they’re a great fit for our concept,”
said John Banquil, regional manager for the Scottsdale-based chain.
“We like to take opportunities like these to tinker with dishes guests are familiar with and give them something new and of course not boring.”
For information and locations visit www. lingandlouies.com.
Ling & Louie’s Asian Bar and Grill was created in 2006 by award-winning restaurateur Randy Schoch, founder and CEO of Desert Island Restaurants.
Designers wanted for Trashion Fashion Show
Chandler is seeking resourceful, inventive and style-savvy fashion designers to enter the City’s second annual Trashion Fashion Show.
The runway show at Chandler Fashion Center on May 21 will feature wearable fashion created from materials that might otherwise end up in the trash.
Chandler residents or students who attend a Chandler school have until April 29 to register. Registration forms and more information are available at www. chandleraz.gov/recycle.
A combination of trash and fashion, the Trashion Fashion Show will provide participants with an opportunity to use their design skills to create and exhibit a garment created from discarded materials. Designers can choose to wear their garment in the show, or select a model.
“We thought this would be a unique way to get people thinking differently about waste,” said Traci Conaway, Chandler’s recycling specialist. “We’re encouraging entrants to let their imaginations go, be wildly inventive, and have fun with their designs.”
At least 75 percent of a garment must be made from recyclable or reused materials that would otherwise be thrown away or recycled. Participants must be residents of Chandler. Twentyfive entries will be accepted in three age categories; ages 10-13, 14-17 and 18-plus. Chandler’s Solid Waste Services Division is organizing the event. Persons interested in assisting, mentoring or inspiring young designers should contact traci. conaway@chandleraz. gov or call (480) 782-3525. In addition, prize donations are being accepted from local businesses.
Dignity Health Family 5K
Join us for our 2nd Annual Dignity Health’s Family 5K on Sunday, May 1st at Freestone Park, Gilbert, AZ. The event has a distance for everyone, including a 5K Run/Walk, Family 1 Mile, and 100 Yard Kids’ Dash, so bring friends!
Your family will be supporting families in the Birthing Centers at both Mercy Gilbert Medical Center and Chandler Regional Medical Center. Whether families are having their first or third baby, we want them to experience this exciting and special time in very comfortable and high-quality surroundings!
Run, Play and Give!
Join us on Sunday May 1, 2016 6:30am Registration Starts 7:30am 5K Run/Walk Begins 8:30am Awards Ceremony begins (approx)
For more information call 480-728-2036 or visit our race website at raceroster.com/events/2015/4876/dignity-health-family-5k
Trashion Fashion participants must be Chandler residents. Submitted photo
East Valley women plan fashion show to help clothe 7,000 children
A group of volunteers from the East Valley have been working for months to plan a fashion show, luncheon and boutique, knowing that more than 7,000 schoolchildren are counting on it to receive new clothing next fall.
Assistance League of East Valley provides new clothing, shoes and hygiene kits for children each year through fundraising events, donations and proceeds from its thrift shop at 1950 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Most of the 140 members are retired, and they enjoy knowing that their efforts have such a wonderful impact in the community.
Their 24th annual fashion show and luncheon will be at 12 p.m. Saturday, April 16, at the Arizona Grand Resort, with a vendor boutique opening at 9 a.m. Boutique items will include custom designed jewelry, apparel, handbags, home décor, linens and glassware.
The event, called “The ‘20s and all that Jazz,” will feature fashions from Dillard’s. A silent auction will include gift baskets, a hand-stitched quilt, Diamondbacks and Cardinals tickets, Gammage tickets, a resort stay and trips. Tickets for the event are $75 and are available at the website: www.
assistanceleagueeastvalley.org.
Elementary school children from Tempe, Mesa, Kyrene, Chandler and Gilbert school districts receive clothing from the organization after being recommended by family resource officers at their schools. The children receive a shopping trip to Target, or a set of two uniforms if they attend a uniform school.
The group also provided 4,350 assault survivor kits last year to local police and fire departments containing clothing and personal care items for victims of trauma, and teddy bears for child victims. They also hold monthly birthday parties at an adult care center, provide supplemental materials to teachers, sponsor spelling bees and award 10 college scholarships.
The Assistance League thrift shop carries boutique and everyday apparel, books, housewares, crafts, small appliances, fabric, toys and children’s clothing.
Assistance League of East Valley is part of a national nonprofit Assistance League that carries out community-based philanthropic projects. The group welcomes new members, as well as donations of any kind.
Prediabetes program offered at SLUMC
The Health and Wellness Ministry at Sun Lakes United Methodist Church is offering “What is Prediabetes?” from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Monday, March 14.
The presenter is naturopath Steven Sabatier, MBA, an Arizona-licensed medical director and diabetes reversal expert. Learn the underlying causes of high blood sugar levels and how blood glucose levels can be balanced. During this interactive session, participants will learn specific actions they can take to support their body’s self-healing mechanisms.
The free event will be held in SLUMC’s room one of the Education Building 9248 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes.
Robson Library sets March schedule
Officials at the Ed Robson Library, 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes, are inviting the public to the following programs in March:
• Tuesday, March 15, at 1 p.m.: Folklore, Stories, and Songs of Ireland: Pat McCrossan, musician and academic director at the Irish Cultural Center, regales the audience with folklore, traditions, and music of Ireland in honor of St. Patrick’s Day.
• Thursday, March 24, at 1 p.m.: Chandler Symphony Presents Pam Hahn, Harpist: Chandler Symphony’s principal harpist presents a solo performance and introduces
fascinating facts about the harp.
• Monday, March 28, at 1 p.m.: Literary Speed Dating 50+: If you’ve ever wanted to be a literary hero or heroine, bring your favorite book featuring that character and have a series of 3-minute encounters across a table. A fun twist on the speed dating trend. Limited to 24 attendees. Registration required.
For the March 15 and March 24 programs, tickets are required. They are free, and are available directly after the library opens on the day of the program. Limit, two tickets per person.
Buy produce at a discount on March 12
Produce On Wheels Without Waste (POWWOW) distributes fresh produce in a farmers market atmosphere. The purpose of the event is to reach out to the community by providing quality produce at an affordable price. A $10 donation is good for up to 60 pounds of produce. Six to eight different varieties are usually available.
Produce On Wheels Without Waste is held on the second Saturday of the month from November through May. The next scheduled event is from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Saturday, March 12, in the parking lot of Desert Palms Church, 4265 S. Arizona Ave. The food goes quickly, so get there early.
For more information, visit www. Facebook.com/POWWOWatDPC.
balance the high-quality care our residents deserve with their desire and right to independence.
• Safe, residential environment
• Specially trained, experienced and attentive staff available 24/7
• Customized care plan for each resident
Actual Spectrum Resident
Of f The I-10 & Elliot at the Tempe Autoplex
7800 S Autoplex Loop Tempe, AZ
Annual Senior Expo returns
Mayor Jay Tibshraeny’s Committee for the Aging is hosting Chandler’s 26th annual Senior Expo from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wednesday, March 9, at the Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave. The Senior Expo is free and open to the public.
More than 60 representatives from a wide variety of health care agencies, leisure services and senior-related product firms will be in attendance to
share their services with senior adults. City departments and other local organizations also will be present. The event includes free blood pressure checks and a limited number of free cholesterol and glucose tests on a first-come, first-served basis.
Senior Expo information is available by calling the Chandler Senior Center at (480) 782-2720, or visiting www. chandleraz.gov/senior-adults.
Indoor cycling classes held at Chandler Tennis Center
A colorful banner along McQueen Road in South Chandler beckons drivers to park their cars and go cycling at Chandler’s Tennis Center where 15 new spin bikes adorn an indoor cycling studio.
The program is among the more than 50 group fitness and indoor cycling classes offered by Chandler’s Tumbleweed Recreation Center (TRC). Instructors coach and motivate each “spinner,” but participants determine their own pace and dictate the intensity of their ride.
“That is the beauty about indoor cycling; the rider is responsible for turning up their own resistance and the music makes it fun and inspiring,” said Vickie Lang, a recreation coordinator at the TRC. “The instructor will ask if
anyone is new to the class and help the rider with proper bike set-up and offer modifications along the way.”
Morning-only cycling classes are held Wednesday and Saturday and morning and evening classes are held Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Single-day passes are available for as little as $2 for youth, $4 for adults and $3 for teens and seniors.
Nonresidents pay a couple dollars more, which remains a bargain given that pass holders can access dozens of other fitness classes and activities in addition to indoor cycling. A discounted Punch Pass good for 10 visits, plus monthly and annual passes, also is available. For more information, contact Vickie at (480) 782-2907.
Bike with mayor at Chandler Family Bike Ride
Join Mayor Jay Tibshraeny for a bike ride along the scenic Paseo Trail during the Annual Family Bike Ride at 8 a.m. Saturday, April 9.
The 7.4-mile ride is held in conjunction with Valley Bike Month (April) and will start at Chandler’s Park & Ride lot, 2100 S. Hamilton St., and travel the Paseo Trail along the Consolidated Canal to Crossbow Park and back.
“As a frequent user of the Paseo Trail, I know the benefits of cycling,” Tibshraeny said. “It promotes lifelong wellness and is an activity that can be shared by the entire family as we witness each year with this event.”
The event is free and participants will receive a free T-shirt while supplies last, along with information about bicycle safety, transit services and related topics. Pre-registration can be accomplished online at www. chandleraz.gov/transit until 12 p.m. Thursday, April 7, or the day of the event beginning at 7 a.m. at the Chandler Park & Ride lot on the southwest corner of Germann and Hamilton streets. All riders must wear helmets. For more information, contact Ann Marie Riley at (480) 782-3442 or annmarie.riley@ chandleraz.gov.
Bike with Mayor Jay Tibshraeny on the Chandler Family Bike Ride, at 8 a.m. Saturday, April 9. Bicyclists will begin the 7.4-mile ride at Chandler’s Park & Ride lot, 2100 S. Hamilton St., continue along the Paseo Trail to Crossbow Park, then return to the Park & Ride lot. Submitted photo
Grimaldi’s updates menu Valleywide
Bruschetta, kale and wine nights are all the rage and this March Grimaldi’s Pizzeria is bringing them to diners.
Starting Monday, March 7, the menu will expand to 21 new wines, four delicious bruschettas and one healthy kale chopped salad.
The kale salad consists of chopped kale and romaine lettuce, artichokes, cucumber, red onion, sun dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives tossed in a citrus vinaigrette. The bruschetta board will let you choose three of four bruschetta options: marinated mushroom and roasted red
pepper, classic tomato and basil, marinated artichoke and an olive medley.
Using only the freshest ingredients, a “secret recipe” pizza sauce, handmade mozzarella cheese and dough, Grimaldi’s serves traditional pizza (as it began in Naples, Italy) and salads made with the freshest ingredients in an upscale yet casual, family oriented pizzeria.
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria has eight locations in Arizona, including Gilbert, Peoria, Tucson, three in the Scottsdale area, and two in Chandler. For more information, visit www. grimaldispizzeria.com.
Great Southwest Cajun Fest set for April 23
Save the date for the Great Southwest Cajun Fest hosted by Abita Brewing from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, April 23, in downtown Chandler. Showcasing the heart and soul of New Orleans paired with Arizona fusion and flavor, this second year event will be held at Chandler’s Dr. AJ Chandler Park for a full day packed with cultural festivities, food and entertainment.
Presented by Angry Crab Shack, the Southwest Cajun Fest celebrates Cajun culture, cuisine and handcrafted beer, and will feature live music with jazz, blues and contemporary swing revival bands. Festival patrons will feel transported to the southeastern region of Louisiana during the Cajun Fest.
“Last year’s event was a huge success and I’m excited to bring the culture and flavors of Louisiana back this year,” said Landon Evans, event coordinator.
“Moving Cajun Fest to downtown Chandler will allow for expanded event grounds, additional parking and
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more options for local businesses to participate. I’m looking forward to bringing Cajun culture to the great people of Chandler; it’s going to be a blast for all ages to experience.”
The festival will feature live entertainment and a variety of food vendors serving up regional dishes. Festivities also includes themed zones such as Bourbon Street, French Quarter, Garden District and more. Patrons of all ages are encouraged to dress in festive parade-style attire and join in on the fun and celebration. The event will take place at the Dr. AJ Chandler Park, 125 E Commonwealth Ave, Chandler, AZ 85225. General admission is $10; kids 12 and younger will be admitted for free. VIP admission is $65, which includes catered food, six adult beverages, access to private seating in the VIP area, private restrooms and front stage access. VIP tickets are only available in advance, online at www.southwestcajunfest.com.
Chandler Aquatics offering discount on Family Season Pass
Chandler residents can receive a 15-percent discount on a Family Season Pass to the City’s six aquatic centers if they purchase a pass between March 5 and March 20.
A Family Season Pass holder may swim at any of the City’s aquatic centers between March and November during published or posted public swim hours with the purchase of a $95 family pass. Up to four family members can use the pass. Additional family members can be added for $13 each.
The discounted passes can be purchased at the Hamilton Aquatic
Center, 3838 S. Arizona Ave., and at the Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center, 5901 S. Hillcrest Dr.
Plastic key fobs will be issued to each family member with the purchase of a family pass and are scanned at City pools for quick entry. A driver’s license photo ID must be presented showing a verifiable Chandler address and all family members listed on the pass should be present so photos can be taken when the key fobs are issued.
For more information, call Chandler Aquatics at (480) 782-2750.
City accepting nominations for Celebration Plaza
Each year, the City of Chandler inducts one or more honorees into Celebration Plaza, a monument honoring individuals and organizations who’ve made significant and enduring contributions to the community. Nominations for induction come from the public, and the City is currently accepting nominations through April 30. The nominating criteria and form is online at chandleraz.gov/ celebrationplaza. Forms are also available at all Chandler libraries, community centers, recreation facilities, Chandler Museum, and City Hall. There is no fee to submit a nomination.
Celebration Plaza is a permanent water feature and monument wall near the center of Tumbleweed Park, located on the southwest corner of McQueen and Germann roads. Since 2007, it has served as a central location to honor service organizations and a select group of residents, living or deceased, for their civic leadership, public outreach, personal service and commitment to the community.
Inductees are selected by the Chandler City Council, based on recommendations from the Museum Advisory Board.
Any nominee selected for induction after the review process will be honored at an induction ceremony in November 2016. As part of the induction, a brass plaque will be placed in Celebration Plaza. Last year’s honorees included Officer David Payne and Chandler Kiwanis Club.
Celebration Plaza nominee criteria
Celebration Plaza nominees should be residents, living or deceased, who have displayed outstanding civic commitment,
leadership, public outreach and service to the people of Chandler. Nominations should clearly state why the individual or organization deserves this recognition, and supporting letters or documentation is strongly encouraged. The nominees are evaluated based on the following criteria:
• Community leaders whose outstanding personal service has resulted in significant and enduring contributions to the community (support for this recognition should include endorsements from other groups, neighborhoods, or organizations)
• An individual or individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the City of Chandler
• An individual or individuals who have added to the quality of life for Chandler residents through their involvement or financial contribution to short- or longterm city projects or activities
• An individual who has demonstrated leadership, innovation and creativity, which have made Chandler a better place to live and work.
• City of Chandler employees killed in the line of duty.
Nominees cannot be individuals holding an elected City of Chandler office or serving on the Museum Advisory Board or Parks and Recreation Board at the time they are either nominated or approved for inclusion in Celebration Plaza.
Questions about the Celebration Plaza nomination criteria or the recognition process can be directed to Cultural Affairs Coordinator Jean Reynolds at (480) 782-2751 or jean.reynolds@ chandleraz.gov.
Creative Aging Program set for Sunset Library March
Raising families and navigating careers often leaves little or no time to engage in artistic pursuits.
Once the children are out of the house, it’s hard to know how to start pursuing hobbies.
The Chandler Public Library is offering a free series of interdisciplinary workshops for people 50 years of age and older incorporating memories, collage, art-making and public exhibition at the Chandler Sunset Library. The series, dubbed Words of Wisdom, is facilitated by Tessa Windt, local teaching artist and Creative Aging specialist. Participants will begin their voyage of self-discover by developing a phrase or sentence that has inspired, motivated or supported them. The content of the words is intended to be the stepping off point for creating
visual, mixed media artworks. Attendees will participate in eight weekly sessions and a culminating event.
These sequential workshops, made possible by the nonprofit organization Lifetime Arts Inc., will be held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursdays from March 31 to May 19. A public exhibition is set for 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday May 28.
The Creative Aging program is free, but registration is required and is limited to 20. Participants are expected to attend all sessions. Register at www.chandlerlibrary. org or call (480) 782-2800 for more information.
The Words of Wisdom series was selected to engage the Chandler Public Library users artistically, and to inspire creative works based on memories and remembrances. These workshops
31 through May 19
offer a highly engaging opportunity for participants to learn from a respected arts educator of the highest caliber. Working through this process with Windt will be hands-on, creatively fulfilling and ultimately very rewarding.
Creative Aging in America’s Libraries is supported by a National Leadership Grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services in collaboration with Lifetime Arts Inc., AARP Foundation, American Library Association and Westchester Library System.
Founded in 2008, Lifetime Arts is a nonprofit organization that serves organizations and individuals nationally by promoting the creation, expansion and sustainability of professionally conducted arts programs for older adults. Lifetime Arts provides training
for artists and senior-service providers; they also maintain the Creative Aging Teaching Artists Roster, a free, searchable database available to libraries and senior-services, arts and community organizations interested in expanding their programming to reach older adults. For more information, see www. lifetimearts.org.
Windt is a practicing visual artist who has been highly involved in the implementation of Creative Aging workshops around the state and country. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Concordia University and a Master of Fine Arts degree from The Ohio State University. Words of Wisdom, is a project developed by Windt in partnership with Mesa Arts Center’s Creative Aging Program.
Neighbors
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKS
Call ahead to confirm information, as details occasionally change after print. If you have a recurring monthly meeting you would like to see listed in Neighborhood Networks, email complete details to News@SanTanSun.com. Note: SanTan Sun News has a Spiritual Connections column in the Spirituality section for ongoing religiousrelated events.
About Care
Monthly volunteer training, by individual appointment.
A nonprofit serving homebound Chandler and Gilbert residents; provides transportation, shopping and errands, friendly visits, reassurance phone calls, and minor home repairs. Info: (480) 802-2331, www.aboutcare.org
Absolute Business Builders: Business Networking International
8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays
Chompie’s
3841 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Nikki Janulewicz, (480) 570-1835, Nikki@azbestmove.com
Action Networkers: Business Networking International
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays Chompie’s
3841 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Marty Recht, (602) 315-2056, Marty@AZMarty.com
Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter, Chandler
5:30 p.m. second Thursday of the month Support group for caregivers of people with dementia. Free and no preregistration required.
Chandler Regional Medical Center, Morrison Building, Learning Resource Room
1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Mindy, (602) 528-0545, ext. 201
American Legion James O. Schroeder Post 55
7 p.m. third Tuesday of the month Sun Lakes Country Club, Navajo Room 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes Info: Commander Byron Weston, (480) 802-6623
Arizona Special Education Network, Chandler area
Provides disability-related education, advocacy and resources to help parents navigate the complex special education system. Info: (602) 531-0230
Breast Cancer Support Group
2 p.m. to 4 p.m. second Monday of each month Free, no preregistration required
Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers
685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Info: Kelly, (480) 340-4013, www. ironwoodcrc.com
Build Your Own Business: Chandler
8 a.m. first and third Thursday of each month East Valley networking and referral organization, meets in Ahwatukee at a private location; address will be provided upon contact.
Info: Lisa, lisa@lisamatusak.com, facebook.com/BYOBAZ
Cancer Caregiver Support GroupChandler
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. third Saturday of each month
Support group for caregivers of people with cancer. Free and no preregistration required.
Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers
685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Info: Kelly, (480) 340-4013, www. ironwoodcrc.com
Caregiver Support Group
10 p.m. to 12 p.m. third Saturday of each month
Ironwood Cancer & Research Center
685 S. Dobson Dr., Chandler Info: Kelly Huey, (480) 340-4013, www. ironwoodcrc.com
Chair Yoga Class-Chandler
10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Wednesdays Free, no preregistration required
Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers
685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Info: Kelly, (480) 340-4013, www. ironwoodcrc.com
Chandler Airport Commission
7 p.m. second Wednesday of each month
The commission makes recommendations to the Chandler City Council regarding airport operations, physical growth, economic development and proposed land use.
Chandler Municipal Airport terminal 2380 S. Stinson Way, Chandler Info: (480) 782-3540
Chandler Business Alliance
7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Thursdays Professional business coalition dedicated to the economic and social development of its members and the Chandler community as a whole.
BLD
1920 W. Germann Rd., Chandler Info: chandleralliance@gmail.com, www. chandleralliance.com
Chandler Chamber Business Golf
7 a.m. tee time, first and third Wednesdays of each month
Includes nine holes of golf, continental breakfast and networking opportunities. Preregistration required online. Golf venue varies. Info: www.chandlerchamber.com
Chandler Farmers Market
3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursdays Weekly market with more than 30 vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, gourmet food and handmade crafts. Free admission.
Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, on the east side of Arizona Avenue, Chandler Info: (480) 855-3539, www. downtownchandler.org
Chandler Lions Club
6:30 p.m. first and third Tuesdays of each month
Area residents are invited to come join like-minded volunteers and make new friends.
Atria Chandler Villas, Community Room 101 S. Yucca St., Chandler Info: RuthJon Wick, (480) 895-3569, az1ruthjon@q.com
Arizona Railway Day
Train lovers and history buffs enjoyed Arizona Railway Day at the Arizona Railway Day Feb. 27 in Tumbleweed Park. Hosted by the Arizona Railway Museum, the event included tours of vintage railroad cars, along with displays of artifacts and memorabilia. Several cars highlighted the train’s accommodations for the traveling public. STSN photos by
There were several train books available for purchase.
Train cars were lined up. Noah and Abe Rodriguez were excited to get on the next train.
The street food truck was consistently busy. Ken Crompton greets all the train fans.
Cody Bengtson hangs out on the train
Brighton Stewart pushes the button to make the horn turn on. Model train cars zoom on the track.
Train signals and artifacts were displayed.
Skylar Davis enjoys walking through the train.
Karen, Evan, Trais, and Charlotte Alward sit and smile after enjoying some ice cream.
Visitors enjoyed pulling the horn on the Southern Pacific train.
One of the “fancier” trains was showcased.
Kimberly Carrillo