SanTan Sun News - Sept. 2, 2016

September 3 - 16, 2016 www.SanTanSun.com

Self-driving wave of the future Google’s autonomous cars drawing raves during intensive testing in the East Valley

BY MIKE BUTLER

Andrew Miller of Gilbert said he thinks Google’s self-driving cars will be so advanced 15 years from now that his 11-month-old twin daughters won’t even need to learn how to drive.

“It won’t be the coming-of-age event it is now,” he said. “It’s beautiful.”

Miller’s thoughts echoed those of hundreds of other East Valley residents who swarmed downtown Chandler’s SoHo63 recently for an opportunity to kick the tires of Google’s self-driving Lexus SUV and ask questions.

Young, old or in-between, they came to embrace the technology, not to fear it.

“They’re not death-bots,” Miller said. “They’re not going to run you down or take your job.”

“I’m excited to be a part of history,” said Angelina Nelson of Gilbert. “We’re all in this together.”

“All I see are benefits,” said her husband, John. “I think it should be mandatory for young people—give them something they can’t wreck.”

Safety is the driving force behind the project, which started in 2009 in Mountain View, California, said Jennifer Haroon, head of business operations for Google’s self-driving car. The program has since spread to Austin, Texas, and Kirkland, Washington. A

small fleet of self-driving cars has been cruising Chandler and Ahwatukee streets since April.

Of the more than 35,000 people

Chandler police ask public’s help for leads in murder of man, 84

BY MEGHANN FINN SEPULVEDA

Chandler police are seeking help from the public to find the persons responsible for the Aug. 18 murder of an 84-year-old man outside of LA Fitness at 2100 N. Dobson Rd.

Shivaswamy Hosakote was stabbed several times while sitting in his vehicle, according to the Chandler Police Department, and later died from his injuries at a local hospital.

“This loss has devastated all of us, especially his wife of 50 years,” said Ananth Krishnan, a family spokesperson. “We haven’t come to grips with what happened.”

Krishnan said that Hosakote was a very kind and gentle person who touched many souls in the community. He was a retired engineer who resided in Mesa. “I miss his laughter,” Krishnan said. “We

think of him every day and hope he didn’t suffer too long at the end.”

Hosakote maintained a healthy, active lifestyle and frequented the LA Fitness location.

While the investigation is ongoing, it is unclear if there is a motive in this case, however Chandler Police have confirmed that surveillance cameras in the LA Fitness parking lot were working at the time of the incident and footage will be reviewed for evidentiary value. Detectives have spoken to LA Fitness employees to gather any leads.

“This is a very tragic incident,” said police Sgt. Daniel Mejia. “We pride ourselves on being a safe city and when something like this happens, we understand people are worried. That’s why we are reaching out to the

killed on U.S. roadways last year, Haroon said, 94 percent of the accidents were caused by human error.

That’s the equivalent of a mid-size

commercial jet crashing every weekday for an entire year, she added.

In the early days of the selfdriving program, Haroon said select Google employees were chosen to test the cars on daily commutes to the Mountain View campus. The cars weren’t completely autonomous then; drivers needed to pay attention when exiting freeways and making other complex maneuvers.

The more the technology improved, the more distracted the employeedrivers became. Google engineers realized they had to put all their chips on push-button, fully self-driving technology, Haroon said.

Engineers also realized that the cars couldn’t possibly be programmed like robots for all of the real-world situations they would encounter. Instead, the cars process data from the 360-degree views they get from their lasers and other sensors to make decisions and learn as they go.

Haroon brought up a you-can’tmake-this-stuff-up example: A Google car once was forced to pause for a woman in an electric wheelchair who was chasing a duck across the road. The self-driving cars now routinely anticipate and yield to drivers and

State regulation of parking lot donation bins gets mixed reviews

BY SRIANTHI PERERA

Shopping center owners are heaving collective sighs of relief now that there’s Arizona legislation to curb the practice of haphazardly placing donation bins in their parking lots, while an established non-profit found it “regulation overkill.”

“The state has spoken, and I think that it’s very timely,” said commercial real estate entrepreneur Michael J. Pollack, who owns about 80 shopping centers in the Valley, of which about 35 are in the East Valley.

“I’m very relieved,” said Joel Moyes, founder of Phoenix-based Kinetic Companies, which owns several shopping centers in the East Valley. “We now have clear property rights about what can and cannot be done when one of these bins shows up on our property.”

Senate Bill 1504, which became law on Aug. 6, requires donationbin operators to receive signed and notarized permission from a property owner before placing a bin on the property. In addition, bins must display the name and contact information of its operator and, if not in compliance, allows property owners to remove bins without liability.

Moyes, who is the Arizona director of the International Council of Shopping Centers, which has 2,000 members statewide, said that he has anecdotal stories to believe that the law already is having an effect.

“The operators, the ones that are going to be good operators, those who want to play by the rules, are see MURDER page 2 see BINS page 2

FEATURE STORIES

Andrew Miller of Gilbert said he believes his twin daughters, Scarlett and Kira, will never have to learn to drive thanks to Google’s self-driving cars.

bicyclists who run yellow/turning-red traffic lights.

Desert testing has been useful for learning about how the cars and technology react to extreme heat and dust, Haroon said. The cars have had to learn how to cope with flashingyellow turn signals, which they haven’t seen before, and those watering trucks that lurch down left lanes to spray plants in the median.

I’m unable to drive—how great it would be to have a Google Car to drive me to fun things.”

Haroon said Google has hosted periodic ride-alongs for folks who can’t drive because of vision problems and other disabilities, and the experience opens up new worlds of possibilities for them.

Guest riders often express initial amazement at what the car sees and how quickly they begin to trust the

“I’m retired. When I’m unable to drive— how great it would be to have a Google Car to drive me to fun things.” - Note at Google Car Event

Google’s 24 Lexus SUVs and 34 prototype vehicles drive an average of 20,000 to 22,000 autonomous miles per week in the four test cities. (Drivers are always ready to take manual control of the vehicles.)

Google used one of the rooms at the wedding and event venue to demonstrate how the lasers “see.” As people milled about the large, darkened room, the lasers instantly plotted their positions as a point cloud on a large monitor.

The room also had stacks of lowtech sticky notes and a “talk back” board where visitors were encouraged to express how they would use a Google self-driving car.

“I’m retired,” one note said. “When

Shivaswamy Hosakote, 84, murdered near a gym, was remembered for his laughter.

MURDER from page 1

community for help.”

Chandler police, in conjunction with Silent Witness, are seeking help from the public and offering a $1,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest and/ or indictment of the suspect(s) involved in this incident. Anyone with information is urged to call 480-782-4130 or 480-W-IT-N-E-S-S.

“We don’t want the family to go through this ever again,” Krishnan said. “Please, if anyone has seen or heard anything, please help us get to the bottom of this and find justice.”

technology, Haroon said. By the end of the ride, she joked, “they kind of find it a little boring.”

The cars are programmed to drive conservatively. They observe speed limits, slow down near construction zones, wait 1.5 seconds after a red light turns green and drift toward the center of the lane to give cyclists extra room.

Most importantly, Haroon said to great applause from community members at the end of a presentation, the cars don’t get tired, angry, distracted or drunk.

Haroon said there’s still no firm date when a motorist will be able to write a check and drive a Google self-driving Lexus or prototype hands-free off the lot. But she hinted that day will come sooner than most people expect.

BINS from page 1

already taking steps to clearly mark contact information on the bins,” he said. “Those that have those bins there placed there right now without permission, I’ve got to believe that they understand that they are on notice.”

The issue irked property owners for years.

In advance of the state law, Phoenix, Surprise and Peoria were among Valley cities to pass ordinances of their own. Last December, Chandler considered drafting its own regulations, but did not pursue.

The Fight the Blight, a broad coalition of Arizona property owners and managers, retailers, philanthropic groups and social-services advocates, which formed last year to fight it, estimates that there are more than 7,000 donation bins in metro Phoenix parking lots.

Of them, a large share was placed on private property without the permission of the property owner or manager, according to Matthew Benson, a coalition spokesman.

“One large, steel donation bin typically attracts others. Together, they often become covered in graffiti and act as a magnet for old mattresses, furniture and other debris,” he said.

“It’s the last thing you want as a property owner or manager trying to maintain a safe, attractive space for customers and clients.”

The current challenge for the coalition is how to get the word out, statewide, about the law, Benson

Uber’s self-driving cars join real world on city streets

Uber announced last week that it will soon start assigning self-driving cars to random passengers who hail rides using the app in Pittsburgh.

The company said the self-driving Volvo SUVs will have humans in the driver’s seat and co-pilot’s seat, ready to take control. The trips for the passengers will be free, and there will be tablets in the back seat offering presentations

said, adding that his group is working toward it.

“The Fight the Blight coalition includes some of the largest property owners and managers in Arizona, as well as the Arizona chapter of the International Council of Shopping Centers,” he said. “As word spreads, people are really excited they’ll be able to begin taking back their parking lots from the illicit donation bin operators.”

Pollack said that he maintained a direction that no one was allowed to place donation bins in his properties.

“The word was out that if they put it in our parking lot without our permission, we will have it towed away to the garbage,” he said. “Now, the law says that’s exactly what we can do.”

He called the operators “rogue” because, in many cases, they kept their identity secret and operated stealthily after midnight. Also, they placed the bins straddling the pad lines that demarcate businesses in a shopping center lot, thereby blurring the responsible party.

Sometimes, Pollack said, the operators pretended to be charitable organizations.

“In many cases, they were for-profits and they had nothing to do with charity, and in some cases, they were saying ‘we are giving a good percentage to charity,’” he said. “We did our research and we found out the ‘good percentage’ means they gave three percent to the charity and 97 percent went into their own pocket. It was so terrible.”

The intense competition for

about the car’s abilities.

Uber has been testing several selfdriving hybrid Ford Fusions in the Valley since late July. Uber is betting that in the future world of self-driving cars, many will find that hailing an Uber anytime they want is cheaper than owning a vehicle. Eliminating more than 1 million drivers would also dramatically boost the transportation company’s bottom line.

donations and the new law, however, are not helping established charitable organizations such as the premier youth mentoring group Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona.

President/CEO Laura Capello said that it’s “frustrating” that the non-profit was not given a chance to make its recommendations to the bill’s legislators.

“They agreed to hold the vote until they had time to look over our suggestions, but ended up not doing this and passing the bill without us there to speak against it,” she said.

For 25 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has partnered with Savers Thrift stores to help raise funds, and the donation bin program has been one of its mechanisms for that long.

“We have seen the negative media regarding bins, which we generally ignore because we know the criticisms do not pertain to us,” Capello said. “When we place a bin, it is with permission and is well maintained.”

Capello said the law “places an unduly restrictive and onerous conditions on the identity of the person from whom we are trying to get permission.

“This type of regulation will negatively impact our agency, as we already work hard to responsibility manage our bin donation programs,” she said.

“We just don’t want the state to over regulate to the point where they make it impossible for us to do business as that would definitely effect our budget and how many children we are able to serve,” she added.

Google’s 24 Lexus SUVs and 34 prototype vehicles drive an average of 20,000 to 22,000 autonomous miles per week in four test cities, including Chandler and Ahwatukee.

Painting and decorating professionals come together to support Assistance League of East Valley’s fledgling Chandler thrift store

BY MEGHANN FINN SEPULVEDA

The Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) provided a team of volunteer professional painters on Aug. 20 to assist with preparations for the grand opening of the Assistance League of East Valley’s newest thrift store, located at 2326 N. Alma School Rd. in Chandler.

The 8,256-square-foot stand-alone building was purchased by Valley entrepreneur Michael A. Pollack last year for the Assistance League of East Valley, a nonprofit organization that supports children and adults in the community. The thrift store, which is scheduled to open on Oct. 4, will sell reasonably priced merchandise,

including antiques and collectibles, gently used clothing for children and adults, shoes, books, housewares, seasonal items, linens and home décor.

The painting event, inspired and organized by Carole Amsberry Anderson and Nick Brassfield of Brassberrys Painting and Coating, was a collaboration of painters and contractors in an effort to reduce expenses for Assistance League of East Valley and serve more families in need.

With the help of Brassberrys Painting and Coating, along with members of the PDCA, the supplies were donated by industry partners such as Sherwin Williams and 3M. As an added bonus, a special bucket

filled with painting supplies was given to each volunteer who donated their time to participate in the event.

AAA Paint and Supply, Behr, Benjamin Moore, Complete Spray Systems, Dunn Edwards, PPG-Pittsburgh Paints, and Wooster Brush Company provided rollers, frames, brushes, caulking maskers, saver lubricant, pump protectors, and gift certificates valued at more than $600 to all of the the volunteers.

Pollack, a long-time supporter and benefactor of the Assistance League of East Valley, stopped by the event to thank volunteers and join in to help.

“The gift of time and support from so

many people means a great deal to the entire Assistance League of East Valley,” said Susan Harrison, project manager for the Assistance League of East Valley. “It has allowed us to use more of our funds to continue our mission of service.”

During the next few weeks, volunteers will be applying the finishing touches before the grand opening. Jeff Nestle from Champion Décor and Coatings, will also be donating his time to lay epoxy flooring for the thrift store’s donation center.

“The generosity of these companies was unbelievable,” Harrison said. “We are so grateful for the passionate support of all these people and businesses.”

LUXURY INTERIORS

A team of painters from the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) donated their time to help the Assistance League of East Valley on Aug. 20.

Volunteer painters prepare the interior of the new thrift store for the Assistance League of East Valley, 2326 N. Alma School Rd. in Chandler.

Series explores music and shared memory through music history

Chandler’s Our Stories Speaker Series returns with three free presentations about shared history through music, beginning 10:30 a.m.

Saturday, Sept. 17, at the Chandler Sunset Library, 4930 W. Ray Rd. Guest speakers will share stories and first-person accounts enhanced with multimedia presentations, demonstrations and music.

The series is presented by the Chandler Museum, Chandler Public Library and Chandler Historical Society.

“Each of us remembers times in our lives when we heard a song on the radio, at a live show or around a campfire,” said Jody Crago, Chandler Museum’s administrator. “The fall speaker series explores some of the most well-known music and songs in American history, as well as songs that aren’t as well-known performed by singers we all recognize.”

The first presentation is “From Liverpool to Abbey Road” by rock historian Vincent Bruno, who also will discuss the excitement of Beatlemania and each band member’s post-Beatles work. The program is made possible by Arizona Humanities.

Ghost Riders

Speakers Michael Ward and Keeter Stuart will delve into the life and music of western songwriter Stan Jones with “Ghost Riders in the Sky: The Story and Songs of Stan Jones,” 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 22 at the Chandler

Speakers Michael Ward and Keeter Stuart will delve into the life and music of western songwriter Stan Jones with “Ghost Riders in the Sky: The Story and Songs of Stan Jones,” 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 22, at the Chandler Sunset Library.

Sunset Library. An Arizona native, Jones wrote classic cowboy songs, such as “Cowpoke” and “Burro Lullaby.” His most famous song, “Ghost Riders in the Sky,” has been performed by Johnny Cash and The Outlaws. Stuart, who is the great nephew of Jones, will perform

Rock historian Vincent Bruno will discuss the excitement of Beatlemania and each band member’s post-Beatles work, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, at the Chandler Sunset Library, 4930 W. Ray Rd.

classic western songs his uncle Stan wrote.

Speaker and music historian Erik Larson will discuss the influence and legacy of big band music and musicians, such as Glenn Miller, Bing Crosby and Ella Fitzgerald, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, at the Chandler Basha Library 5990

Saturday,

S. Val Vista Dr. He will play recordings from his personal collection and share historical trivia. This program is made possible by Arizona Humanities. There is no registration required and the programs run from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Info: 480-782-2751 or www.chandlermuseum.org.

Erik Larson will discuss the influence and legacy of Big Band music and musicians, such as Glenn Miller, Bing Crosby and Ella Fitzgerald, 10:30 a.m.

Oct. 29, at the Chandler Basha Library 5990 S. Val Vista Dr.

Library Card Sign-up Month geared to Chandler learners of all ages

Today’s libraries are about more than books. They are creative educational spaces for lifetime learners—from birth to high school and beyond. If you are one of the 37% of Americans who don’t yet have a card, there are four reasons for taking advantage of Library Card Sign-up Month.

• Opening New Worlds: Most Americans see the library as an educational support center for students of all ages. For parents in particular, helping their children enjoy reading is one of the most important things they can do. Reading is fundamental to student development and learning. Reading sparks curiosity and imagination. Librarians provide important resources to families whose children are at the earliest stages of development, by teaching parents and caregivers the components of early literacy, which help children develop the basic tools for school readiness.

• Exper t Help: Not only does the public library have books to take home, it has librarians to help locate digital and print information for every age group and on any and every topic imaginable. They can introduce you to new genres and make reading recommendations for you and your book club, as well as show how to download a book onto an e-reader or tablet. They can also demonstrate how to navigate free online services, such as access to consumerreports.org, lynda. com and ancestry.com.

• Getting Connected: About 30% of all students do not have home access to the internet, so for these students

having a library card is extra important. The library is a hotspot for free internet access and word processing computers, computer classes and internet instruction. In addition, libraries often offer free programs on everything from writing resumes to learning a language, as well as summer reading programs that keep student reading skills strong during summer vacation.

SFR-SanTan-halfpg-08312016-PRINT.pdf 1 8/31/16 4:39 PM

• Student Success: Because most public libraries have websites, many services are available through the internet

24/7. Libraries are also a training ground for students of all ages to expand their knowledge and explore creative pursuits. The development of makerspaces is just one way libraries are seeking to meet this demand, ranging from low-tech, hands-on engineering opportunities for children and teens using toys and kits, to the incorporation of high-tech tools like laser cutters and 3D printers.

“Our library provides access and programs for learners of all ages,”

said Brenda Brown, Cultural Services director. “For pre-school-aged children we offer early literacy and story times to encourage school readiness, for older children and teens we supplement education with hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) programs, and for nontraditional students we offer GED resources. There’s really something for everyone, and it’s all free with a library card.”

Info: 480-782-2800 or chandlerlibrary. org/faqs.html#getcard.

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Mayor Jay Tibshraeny has been active in pushing the Chandler library system.

Intel volunteers donate supplies to help Andersen Elementary gear up for the new school year

Teachers at John M. Andersen Elementary in Chandler ramped up for the new school year a little easier this year thanks to Intel employees who lent a hand by donating enough school supplies to support each of the 28 teachers at the school.

“Our teachers are dedicated to our students’ success,” said Principal Dr. Shannon Hannon. “Intel really helped us start the year off right by providing the necessary items for each of our teachers.”

Donations were based on wish lists from the teachers, which included pencils, notebooks, industrial pencil sharpeners, USB flash drives, markers, tissues, hand sanitizer, highlighters, folders and memberships to Treasures for Teachers.

“Intel is proud to partner closely with local schools to make a difference in the lives of students,” said Carlos Contreras, Intel’s public affairs director. “In addition to identifying volunteers to assist in the classroom during the school year, we also wanted to support local teachers by providing supplies they need for more impactful instruction.”

Surveys show teachers spend about $500 on classroom supplies, instructional materials, books and professional development. Intel’s community engagement manager leveraged the passion of one of Intel’s business units

seeking a service opportunity by having them donate, sort, box, and deliver the donated items to the teachers as they set up their classrooms.

The company held an annual backpack drive with FANS Across America. These items are distributed during Operation Back to School with Chandler, an event that helps children in need. This year, the drive brought in 550 filled backpacks and approximately 4,000 pairs of socks and underwear. Supplies from this drive are distributed directly to students. Info: intel.com/content/www/us/ en/corporate-responsibility/intelinvolved.html or and facebook.com/ intelinvolvedarizona.

Chandler-Gilbert CC to host political forums for students

A series of free political forums are being offered at Chandler-Gilbert Community College’s Pecos Campus to promote civic participation among students. The series is hosted by the college’s Office of Student Life and Leadership.

“Project 3-D” is a series of forums created by CGCC student Curran Vinson to give students the opportunity to discuss and understand key political issues such as immigration, gun control and social justice. With the three “Ds” representing diligent, dynamic, and determination, this project aims to give participants an enlightened experience.

“My hope is that Project 3-D attendees will take these core values to heart, and be courageous enough to create a society built on the relentless pursuit of truth, justice and equality,” Vinson said. “I hope they leave excited about the future they’re going to create, so that they will tell, share, and plan with others. Most importantly, I’d like for them to leave with the hope and knowledge that democracy does work, but only as hard we do, no more, no less.”

The forums will be highly engaging and led by a panel of informed experts on the featured topic. The objective of this format is to facilitate the public’s understanding of complex issues through the power of discussion. Vinson will serve at the moderator and host for each event.

• Project 3-D Roll Out Event, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 13, at the Student Pavilion.

• “This Land Is Your Land, This Land Is My Land:” Politics of the Wall, 7 p.m. to

8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 27, in the Agave Community Room.

• Project 3-D and Rock the Vote Event, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5, at the Student Pavilion.

• Shots Heard Around the World: The Politics of Gun Control in America, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 18, in the Agave Community Room.

• Social Justice, Diversity, and the New American, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 1, in the Agave Community Room. In addition to the forums, a voter registration event is being held Wednesday, Oct. 5, to help students register to vote in the general election by the Oct. 10 registration deadline. The voter registration portion of Project 3-D is being conducted in connection with Rock the Vote, a nonpartisan group that focuses on educating and registering young voters and getting as many as possible to turn out to the polls. The event will include live entertainment, food and guest speakers.

Info: 480-732-7150 or katherine.haar@cgc.com.

Chandler police aid Tempe force at Safe & Sober event at ASU

The Chandler Police Department’s Traffic Unit was in Tempe recently on the campus of ASU as a law-enforcement participant in the annual Safe & Sober back to school campaign sponsored by the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety. Chandler officers teamed up with other East Valley agencies to conduct saturation patrols on and around the campus with the goal of detecting impaired drivers. The Tempe Police Department hosted the

GOHS-funded event.

The goal of the campaign was to remove impaired drivers from the road before the damaging, and often tragic, consequences that result from a poor decision to operate a vehicle under the influence. Participating Chandler officers were specially trained in the detection of roadway impairment from excessive alcohol consumption or the use of illicit or excessive prescription drugs.

Residents can ICAN’s coin drive go viral with the #giveme5 message and by creating “high five” videos or sharing the videos on ICAN’s Facebook page at facebook.com/icanaz.

ICAN celebrates 25th anniversary with coin drive in September

In partnership with the Chandler Police Department and Big Two Toyota, ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth is inviting the community to commemorate its 25th anniversary this year by participating in a community-wide coin drive during the month of September.

Community members can host a coin drive at their home or office, bring donated change donated to ICAN, or donate “virtual change” at icanaz.org/ coindrive.

Residents can also help ICAN’s message go viral with the #giveme5 message and by creating “high five” videos or sharing the videos on ICAN’s Facebook page at facebook.com/icanaz.

Crowdfunding sought for demonstration-garden project at Oasis Park

The National Recreation and Park Association, which represents 50,000 recreation and park professionals and citizens, has offered to include a demonstration garden at the cty’s Veterans Oasis Park on its Fund Your Park crowdfunding site for 30 days. The Chandler Recreation Division has set aside land and developed a design, but is seeking $9,000 in donations to purchase and install a quality, powder-coated galvanized steel fence to surround the garden.

“We are thrilled to be chosen by NRPA to be part of their Fund Your Park campaign,” said Ariane Francis, a recreation coordinator with the City and organizer of the Demonstration Garden and fundraising effort. “They will bring greater visibility to our project and provide an easy online process to accept donations.”

Crowdfunding is the practice of funding a project or venture by raising many small amounts of money from a large number of people, typically via the internet. Park and recreation agencies are beginning to incorporate crowdfunding efforts alongside traditional fundraising strategies.

Agencies that list a Fund Your Park

project pay fees to the NRPA totaling about 5% of funds raised, which covers credit card processing and the service provider’s fee for the crowdfunding platform. The remaining 95% of funds raised will go toward the purchase of the fence.

“This garden will provide a variety of demonstration opportunities where City staff will coordinate educational programs associated with environmentally appropriate gardening activities,” Francis said. “These programs include those offered during field trips, camps, workshops, exhibits, volunteer service projects, live demonstrations and various signature events.”

To make a tax deductible donation, visit fundyourpark.org/campaign/ detail/4715.

ICAN also recently received a $25,000 grant from Walmart and the Walmart Foundation to support the organization’s Healthy Lifestyles program, which serves over 100,000 free, nutritious meals and snacks to youth each year. Over the last fiscal year, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation donated $28.4 million in cash and in-kind donations to charitable organizations throughout Arizona.

ICAN is a free, family-centered youth service in the East Valley that provides programs to equip youth to achieve personal and academic success by tackling substance abuse, gang involvement and juvenile delinquency. Info: 480-821-4207 or icanaz.org.

City of Chandler Insider

‘A Focus on Understanding & Hope’ Crisis-intervention training aids Chandler police officers

BY THE CITY OF CHANDLER COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT

Daily news headlines around the nation shine a spotlight on the immense challenges public-safety professionals are facing in their interactions with people impacted by mental health conditions and substance use.

Resolving these challenging encounters in positive and productive ways often requires police officers to have specialized training plus knowledge of and access to a variety of resources in the community.

On Saturday, Sept. 24, the Chandler Police Department will host a free public forum that they hope will better prepare officers for these complex situations and result in better outcomes for everyone involved.

“A Focus on Understanding & Hope” is a resource fair to help educate the public about the stigma surrounding

mental illness and connect people to assistance options in the community. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., and it will feature more than 45 organizations sharing information and offer networking opportunities. There will also be prize giveaways and light refreshments.

Numerous guest speakers will share their stories and expertise on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), physical and mental disabilities, suicide prevention, and substance use disorder, recovery, overdose prevention and more.

Some of the most anticipated presentations at “A Focus on Understanding & Hope” will be abridged crisis intervention training (CIT) courses that will be certified by the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board, also known as AZ POST.

“This event is for police officers, firefighters, military veterans, caregivers, anyone who is affected by mental health challenges and their family members,” said Chandler Police Commander David LeVoy. “It will be an educational event, but there will also be opportunities for participants to share their experiences with understanding professionals who can provide assistance and guidance.”

Chandler Police Chief Sean Duggan has made crisis intervention training a goal for all of the department’s officers.

“This event will give Chandler officers a valuable training opportunity,” LeVoy said. “It’s also open to public safety personnel from other jurisdictions, because these issues affect every community, and everyone will benefit if we can improve on how we handle these types of encounters.”

Some of the most effective lessons

during crisis intervention training are delivered by people with mental health conditions who challenge the assumptions and stereotypes that permeate society. Some of the presentations on Sept. 24 will be through the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the “In Our Own Voice” program. These will be powerful first-hand accounts about the struggles faced by real people, their options for treatment, and the possibility of a bright future.

“There is often a stigma attached to people with mental illness, and events like this one can help those of us in law enforcement learn to reduce our judgments about them and their family members,” LeVoy added. We can all work together to get people the help they need. That will make Chandler a healthier community.”

‘A Focus on Understanding and Hope’ presentations

ADDICTION / SUBSTANCE USE

• What does a substance abuse problem look like?

Hear a personal story of substance abuse and recovery from a local Arizonan, Justin Hermanski, who attended Hamilton High School in Chandler.

• Finding HOPE amid addiction

An in-depth look into the opioid epidemic in Arizona, how it’s treated and how we recover.

• Overdose prevention through Naloxone

This workshop will teach community members the skills to recognize an opioid overdose and respond effectively including the use of naloxone.

• RX matters

How to help older adults understand medication misuse, plus tools to help individuals avoid misuse and abuse of prescription medications.

MENTAL HEALTH

• Working with law enforcement

Presenters will discuss the collaborative effort between law enforcement and the behavioral/mental health community to redirect individuals in crisis, away from the criminal justice system and into behavioral health system

• In our own voice

People with personal experience with mental illness lead a brief,

yet comprehensive and interactive presentation, about mental health. Presented by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

• The Commit Campaign

This short presentation will focus on the mental health awareness campaign working to end the stigma associated with mental health, mental illness and suicide.

CIT / PTSD / SUICIDE

• CIT training

An officer teaches crisis intervention communication skills for fellow law enforcement officers.

• PTSD

An officer shares his personal story of trauma experienced on the battlefield,

and explains how that trauma was suppressed for many years until it was revealed when he faced an unimaginable situation with a suicidal subject.

• Suicide prevention and awareness

Warning signs and symptoms of someone who may be contemplating suicide, and resources for taking intervening steps.

• Trauma and readjustment issues for veterans

A psychologist from the West Valley Veterans Center will present on militaryspecific PTSD and trauma in relation to combat and military sexual trauma (MST). Readjustment issues common for veterans will be discussed, as well as resources for vets and their family and caregivers.

Many Chandler police officers have received crisis-intervention training, which better prepares them to speak with people who are undergoing a personal crisis and with family members who may be impacted by the crisis. Pictured is Chandler police Sgt. Mike Moore.

City of Chandler Insider

EMPLOYEE PROFILE

Chandler officers’ crisis intervention experiences inspire them to organize community resource forum

Chandler Police Officers Loranda Tibble and Melissa Lotz have responded to hundreds of calls involving mental illness or drug addiction during their nine- and 18-year policing careers, respectively. They’ve seen up close the pain and anguish of family members and friends who feel overwhelmed and unable to help the affected individual. At times they’ve experienced the same frustration that many law enforcement professionals feel when they want to help, but feel limited by their training or community resources.

Today, Lotz and Tibble are two of 35 Chandler police officers who are certified in crisis intervention and who stand ready to respond to certain situations and assist their fellow officers. As the Chandler Department strives to be a leader in the 21st century policing movement, one of Police Chief Sean Duggan’s goals is that eventually all Chandler police officers will receive crisis intervention training (CIT).

The specialized training changed the way Lotz approaches certain people and situations.

“After taking CIT courses I noticed that I spoke to people differently when on patrol. I still had to project a strong

police presence, but my tone changed dramatically and I had a friendlier, conversational style when speaking with people,” Lotz explained.

“I learned to better assess a situation, to know when to back off and give someone the space they needed to process what was happening to them.”

In addition to CIT, officers also need to possess a greater knowledge of the mental health and addiction treatment options that are available in the community. This includes resources that might be beneficial for the family members and friends of people who are dealing with addiction, mental health issues and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

“We are often the first contact point in a crisis, and when we are dealing with an individual who is experiencing a mental health, PTSD or drug related incident we have a duty to try to help them in the long term and not just fall back on short term responses like arrest and send them to jail,” Tibble said.

Their crisis intervention experiences in the field inspired the two officers to organize a local event last year that brought organizations, officers and the public together to share stories

and resources. That event’s success has led to a second forum—“A Focus on Understanding & Hope”—from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, at the Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave. “We want our officers to get to know some of the people and organizations

that we rely on to help those affected by substance abuse, mental health issues, and physical and mental disabilities,” Lotz said. “If we are all on the same page, working together, we can make a difference in peoples’ lives. That’s why I love being a patrol officer.”

Day of ‘understanding and hope’ begins with 1.5-mile march

September is National Recovery Month and one local addiction treatment organization is inviting the community to join in a 1.5-mile march to help spread the message that prevention works, treatment is effective and people can recover.

Valley Hope of Chandler is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing affordable treatment and recovery from addiction to alcohol or drugs. Valley Hope is inviting the public to participate in “Voices of Hope: Our Families, Our Community, Our Stories” beginning at 7 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, at its center at 501 N. Washington St. The morning will begin with

inspirational keynote speakers sharing their stories and encouraging people to become Champions of Hope. A Champion of Hope is someone who is willing to stand up against the stigma of addiction and stand beside those in recovery to offer support and compassion. Participants will then march to the Center for the Arts, where the Chandler Police Department event, “A Focus on Understanding & Hope,” begins at 9 a.m. Snacks and beverages will be provided, and all participants will receive a free T-shirt. For more information, call 480-899-3335 or visit valleyhope.org.

During a crisis intervention training session, a man acts out various behaviors that could be exhibited by a person experiencing a mental health crisis.

Chandler police Officers Melissa Lotz, left, and Loranda Tibble have coordinated “A Focus on Understanding and Hope,” a free public forum and resource fair on Sept. 24 to educate lawenforcement professionals and the public about mental health and substance abuse resources in the community.

Chandler police Chief Sean Duggan addresses officers on crisis-intervention training.

Chandler mayor new president of League of Arizona Cities and Towns

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny has been selected to a two-year term as president of the League of Arizona Cities and Towns at the organization’s annual conference held recently in Scottsdale. Tibshraeny will serve with two other newly selected League officers: Lake Havasu City Mayor Mark Nexsen, vice president; and City of Maricopa Mayor Christian Price, treasurer. In addition to the three officers, the League is governed by an executive committee made up of mayors and council members from cities and town located in Arizona.

“I am very passionate about the work that the League performs on behalf of Arizona’s cities and towns, and I look forward to taking on this leadership position in the coming term,” Tibshraeny said. “As we work with the governor and legislature to protect our interests, we also will continue to collaborate with our state lawmakers to ensure the best interests of all are being served.”

Tibshraeny is serving his seventh term as Chandler’s mayor. He originally served as a member of the Chandler City Council from 1986 to 2002 as a councilman, vice mayor and mayor. He was first elected Chandler mayor in 1994, and served in that capacity for four consecutive terms through 2002. Prior to returning to the mayor’s office in 2011, he served eight years in the Arizona state senate.

Tex Earnhardt celebrates 65 years in the auto business

Tex Earnhardt, one of the most recognized personalities in the Southwest, will celebrate his 65th anniversary in the automobile business on Sept. 4.

“The harder you work, the luckier you get,” Earnhardt said about his success.

Ever humble, Earnhardt and his family credit much of their success to their topnotch managers and hard-working employees.

The 85-year-old Earnhardt, the founder of Earnhardt Auto Centers, grew up in southern Texas. Before moving to Arizona and getting into the automobile business, he was a professional rodeo cowboy, a career that was fun, but shy on financial rewards.

In 1951, when he was 20 years old, he joined his family in moving to Arizona. Earnhardt started a gas station in Chandler and soon expanded to selling auto parts and eventually opened a new Ford dealership.

The original Chandler dealership started one car at a time—literally. Earnhardt could afford to stock only one car. They didn’t pick another car to display until the first car sold.

Over the years, he became widely known for his great deals and as the cowboy car dealer who rode a bull. His trademark slogan “that ain’t no bull” was the ultimate truth in advertising. The “bull” he rode in the commercials was really a steer.

Earnhardt’s sons, Hal and Jim Babe, eventually joined him in the business as did several of his grandchildren. Today, the Earnhardt family is at the helm of the Southwest’s largest automotive empire; a business that now has nearly 4,000 employees. From its humble beginnings in

the organization now sells more than 48,000 vehicles a year.

The Earnhardt automobile organization sells 18 different automobile brands: Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Lexus, Maserati, Mazda, Toyota, Scion and Volkswagen. Their 22 dealerships are located in Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Gilbert, Goodyear, Avondale, Peoria, Prescott Valley and Las Vegas.

Being committed to excellence is one of the reasons for the extraordinary success of Earnhardt Auto Centers. Earnhardt’s favorite tongue-in-cheek maxim has always been, “being second is being the first loser.” Many of the Earnhardt automobile franchises are No. 1 in retail sales and/or customer satisfaction at the national, regional or state level. Earnhardt organization is one of the few holdouts and remains family-owned and -operated since 1951.

Earnhardt said he has big plans for the future.

“We will continue to expand, no question,” he said. “There are many opportunities in the automotive industry right now and the key to our continued success is flexibility. In the 65 years that we have been in such a business with its many ups and downs, we have weathered the storms by continuing to ‘think big and by spending to get and keep customers and employees.’ We pay the best, advertise the most, stay open the longest, and we promise and deliver the No. 1 customer experience— and that ain’t no bull!”

“Our mission is to provide the best hospital experience to our clients and patients via a clean, relaxed environment with knowledgeable and courteous staff. We will continue to evolve to provide the best veterinary medicine, the latest in advance technology and client education.”

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny has been selected to a two-year term as president of the League of Arizona Cities and Towns.

Mayor’s Neighborhood Excellence Awards has Sept. 16 deadline for nominations

Active neighborhood leaders and block-watch groups are being encouraged to submit a nomination for the Mayor’s Neighborhood Excellence Awards, offered by the Neighborhood Programs Office, in partnership with the Chandler Police Crime Prevention Unit.

Online voting for the People’s Choice Award is underway and will continue through Wednesday, Sept. 16.

All nominations will be evaluated and the top finalists in each category will be selected by crime-prevention officers, neighborhoodprograms staff and the City’s Neighborhood Advisory Committee.

The awards recognize neighborhoods for their dedication to creating community through events, increasing neighborhood involvement and developing the next generation of leadership. Winners will be announced at the start of the 2016 GAIN kickoff event, which will be 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, in the community room at the Chandler Police Department, 250 E. Chicago St. Nomination forms are available online at chandleraz.gov/connect. There are two categories available this year: Mayor’s Choice Award and the People’s Choice Award. Info: 480-782-4354.

Will2Walk Golf Scramble scheduled at Whirlwind Golf Club

An 18-hole scramble, luncheon and awards ceremony are Saturday, Nov. 12, at the Whirlwind Golf Club, 5692 W. North Loop Rd., Chandler, to raise money for the Will2Walk Scholarship Program.

Will2Walk seeks golfers, sponsors and donors to help meet the event’s fundraising goal of $20,000.

The golf tournament is part of Will2Walk’s annual campaign to provide funding to individuals who exemplify how those with a spinal-cord injury can live a healthy, active and independent lifestyle.

“The Will2Walk Golf Scramble has become a fun and important annual event to support Arizonans and others across the country who are admirably pursuing the highest quality of life possible while faced with the challenges and expense of living with a devastating injury,” said Amy Munoz, Will2Walk’s executive director.

Arizona-based awards have totaled $17,700 since the start of 2015 and have

purchased athletic wheelchairs and equipment, sports tournament fees, driving lessons, vehicle adaptation and college tuition.

“Thanks to the generosity of our golfers, sponsors and donors, we are able to make a difference in the ability of people with SCI to return to work, pursue education, practice sports or enjoy hobbies,” Munoz said.

Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. Shotgun starts at 9 a.m. Lunch is a 2 p.m. The entry fee for golf and lunch is $125. Lunch alone is $20.

Founded in 2008, the foundation was the vision of Gilbert resident Rich Hamill, who sustained a spinal cord injury in an auto accident in 1992. Will2Walk is an Arizona-based nonprofit organization that is led by a volunteer board of directors and funded 100 percent from personal donations and event proceeds.

Info: 602-741-6012 or amy.munoz@will2walk.org.

Lions organize bike obstacle course fundraiser

The Chandler Lions, in collaboration with the city and the Chandler Police Department, have organized a one-day bicycle obstacle course fundraiser to help a local family buy a $3,000 special bike for their nonverbal 12-year-old daughter with Down syndrome and autism.

Ride So Leia Can is 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 18, at Snedigar Park, 4500 S. Basha Rd., in Chandler.

The event is free to the public, although 20% of all proceeds and 100% all tips at the Chandler Lions Snack Shack will be donated toward the purchase of the Buddy Bike, an alternative inline tandem bicycle that places the smaller rider in the front seat while the rear rider controls the steering.

The Lions also will be selling raffle baskets with all proceeds going toward the cost of the bike.

Chandler Police Department bicycle

officers will participate and motorcycle officers will demonstrate their skills.

Participants will compete in one of three obstacle courses: physically challenged, children ages 2-7 and individuals 7 years and older. Prizes will be awarded to all participants. At the end of the event, a community park cleanup will be organized with a prize going to the individual or team with the heaviest bag of collected items.

Leia’s mother, Michele Fiorenza, said the bike will enable her daughter to strengthen her core muscles, keep her safe and be able to go on family bike rides.

“On most bikes, Leia is in the back in a trailer. Because she’s nonverbal, she can’t really tell me when she’s tired or done. So she just hops off,” Fiorenza said.

“The Buddy Bike puts Leia in front of me so she learns what’s like and be able to feel the wind in her face. We both have a

set of handlebars and pedals so she can create movement along with me.”

The cost of the bike is not covered by insurance because it’s not considered durable medical equipment, Fiorenza said. “Leia loves riding her training bike with training wheels, but she’s getting too big. The Buddy Bike will let us go together on family bike rides.”

Fiorenza said she was encouraged to reach out to the Chandler Lions by Leia’s respite and rehabilitation provider, Cassie Lowery, currently in graduate school to become a licensed physical therapist.

“There are so many challenges for Leia to be a typical kid,” Fiorenza said. “This will be a great experience for her and someday, when I’m old and gray, hopefully she’ll be the captain of the bike and I’ll be the co-pilot.”

For more information about the Chandler Lions Club, visit e-clubhouse. org/sites/chandleraz.

Chandler city services to go on special schedule for Labor Day

Chandler city offices will be closed on Monday, Sept. 5, in observance of Labor Day. Service closures are as follows:

• City administrative offices will be closed.

• Trash and recycling collection will be unaffected and occur as scheduled.

• Recycling-Solid Waste Collection Facility for residential self-haul will be closed.

• The Tumbleweed Recreation Center’s holiday hours are from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Chandler Tennis Center at Tumbleweed Park will be closed.

• Environmental Education Center, Snedigar Recreation Center, Senior

Center and downtown Community Center will be closed.

• Libraries (Downtown, Basha, Hamilton, Sunset) will be closed.

• Chandler Museum at the McCulloughPrice House will be closed. (Closed every Monday).

• Arrowhead Pool, Desert Oasis, Hamilton, Mesquite Groves and Nozomi Aquatic Centers are open from noon to 5 p.m. Folley Pool is closed.

• No lap swimming sessions will be held at Hamilton or Mesquite Groves aquatic centers.

The Buddy Bike puts Leia Fiorenza in front her mom so she can learn what it’s like to feel the wind in her face.

Chandler Public Library receives $11K grant for war series programs

The Chandler Public Library has been awarded an $11,050 grant from the Arizona State Library to fund an upcoming series of public programs that will examine the American experience during wartime.

The “America in Times of Conflict” series begins in November and continues through April. It will include panel discussions, lectures, oral histories, exhibits and movies that describe and bring to life the unique experience of Americans during times in our history when we have been in conflict, including World War II, the Korean and Vietnam wars.

“Many of our Chandler residents are veterans or families of veterans. Past programs on these topics have been very popular, and we continually receive requests to provide more history on how war has affected our country as well as our local community,” said Cultural Affairs Director Brenda Brown.

“This grant will allow the library to pursue programming to meet this interest while providing services that are specific to veterans of all ages and seniors.”

The library hopes to attract local veterans and senior citizens to this new series, which will include regional insights to make the topics even more relevant to attendees. However, Brown is encouraging everyone, regardless of their age, to attend these programs.

“The library also is working closely

Dental Implants

with the Chandler Museum to create online and physical exhibits of photos and cultural memorabilia relevant to the various program topics.

“Seeing these items can add another facet to understanding the era,” Brown added.

In addition to the Chandler Public Library, “America in Times of Conflict” programs will involve all divisions of the city’s Cultural Affairs Department, including Chandler Museum and the Chandler Center for the Arts. The Chandler Senior Center also is a project partner.

In 2016, the Arizona State Library, Archives & Public Records, a division of the Secretary of State, received about $3.2 million under the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), which is administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. More than $800,000 was awarded on a competitive basis to libraries in Arizona. The remaining funds are used to support statewide services, including family literacy and reading programs, electronic databases, digital government initiatives, continuing education classes and other programs.

“Libraries are community centers that address diverse needs, including employment and economic development, civic engagement and human services,” said Secretary of State Michele Reagan whose office oversees the State Library. “It is an honor to assist libraries to transform to meet

the needs of the community.”

The dates, times and locations for the “America in Times of

Permanent solution to tooth loss

People who have lost teeth might often feel too self-conscious to smile or talk in public. Additionally, early tooth loss can change eating habits and facial appearance and lead to secondary health problems.

Although you have a number of options for the replacement of missing teeth, none have proven to be as functionally effective and durable as dental implants. In many cases, dental implants are the only logical choice for the restoration of all necessary functioning of the teeth and supporting structures; dental implants provide a simple remedy with proven results.

Dental implants are stronger and more durable than bridges and dentures. Implants offer a permanent solution to tooth loss and are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth.

They are proven to preserve the jaw bone, gums and the adjacent natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything, knowing that their teeth appear natural and that their facial contours will be preserved. We offer state-of-theart technologies and Dr. Shah is constantly implementing the latest techniques to provide you with the best care available.

Patients who come to us can smile with confidence. For a consultation, please call Dr. Shah at 480.814.9500. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Board Certified, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

Conflict” presentations are online at chandlerlibrary.org or by calling 480-782-2800.

Nish Shah, D.M.D., M.D.

Chandler resident Eulogio “Lefty” Soto received a Bronze Star for his service in World War II. Soto served in the U.S. Army in the Pacific Theater. He wasn’t awarded the Bronze Star until 1957, while he was a member of the Arizona National Guard. Photo courtesy of the Chandler Museum.

Casual Pint combines beer with feel of coffee shop

BY MIKE BUTLER

It’s called The Casual Pint. But you can also call it your friendly neighborhood taproom. Or your new south Chandler specialty beer market, the place to pick up a quick six-pack of craft beers after work or grab a growler to go.

“I’m in love with this place; I’m having a relationship with this place,” said Jennifer Savage, who stopped by for a pint recently. “It’s so calm in here, a very cool place.”

“I’m going to be using that bike rack a lot,” said Seth Williams, who lives in nearby Clemente Ranch.

Nestled in the heart of Ocotillo on the southwest corner of South Alma School and West Queen Creek roads, The Casual Pint feels more like a local coffee shop than a bar, and that’s by design, said owners Amy and Chad Eby, who also live in Clemente Ranch.

The Casual Pint serves a revolving selection of 30 craft beers on tap from independent brewers from around the

country, as well as a few selections from local favorites, such as the Perch Pub in downtown Chandler, the Beer Research Institute in Mesa and Huss Brewing and Pedal Haus in Tempe.

All of the beertenders are certified Level 1 cicerones, signifying that they have passed a rigorous online exam and have a thorough understanding of the brewing process, beer styles and pairing beer with food.

If you get the munchies while hanging out, order a Bavarian pretzel with beer cheese, wings, a flatbread or a wrap. Make yourself comfortable at one of the tables, plop down in a club chair or take it outside to the misted patio.

The market section offers a wide variety of canned and bottled craft beers, which you can mix and match to your heart’s content. Draft beers can also be taken home in 64-ounce growlers.

The Casual Pint isn’t meant to replace the Ebys’ day jobs. Amy is a Ph.D. nurse

practitioner. Chad has a master’s in industrial engineering. Avid homebrewers, the Ebys wanted to pair their love of beer with a small business. They pounced on The Casual Pint, a fast-growing, Knoxville, Tennessee, franchise, because of CEO Nathan Robinette’s vast retail experience and proven recipe for success.

“Arizona wasn’t part of our expansion plans,” said Robinette. “The only reason we’re here is because of Chad and Amy.”

It’s fitting that Amy and Chad met over a pint in Dallas 15 years ago. “Here’s this cute girl, and she’s ordering a stout,” Chad said. Intrigued, he asked if she was ordering the dark brew for herself or a friend.

Wrong move.

“I was offended,” Amy said. “But we ended up talking for three hours that night.”

Three and half months later, they were engaged.

“Beer and family—those are my passions,” Chad said. “I’m not saying in what order.”

Chandler City Hall is on the road with the Mayor’s Listening Tour

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny hosts his popular Listening Tour at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13, at Sylvia Encinas Hartford Elementary School, 700 N. Hartford St., Multi-purpose Room.

Residents are invited to attend the Mayor’s Listening Tour to meet the mayor, city council members, city staff, police and members of the Neighborhood Advisory Committee (NAC). Residents are encouraged to arrive early to discuss any challenges in their neighborhoods and find possible solutions by working directly with city staff. Attendees also can learn more about city departments by stopping at their booths on displays and learn what key projects staff is working on.

As with past Listening Tours, the meeting provides residents an opportunity to receive information on city resources and services, such as Block Watch and the Neighborhood Grant Program, which provides grants of up to $5,000 to assist with neighborhood revitalization. For more information or if you have a specific concern you would like addressed at the event, contact the Neighborhood Programs Office at 480-782-4354.

Invisalign Night for Parents & Teens

Noah’s launches service for choosing unique venues worldwide

The parent company of Noah’s Event Venue of Chandler has launched Emzara Events, a website that connects those planning weddings and events with privately owned properties worldwide.

Emzara allows owners of properties, such as beach houses, rooftop patios, antique barns or private backyards, to rent out their spaces to individuals looking for unique locations for their weddings or private events.

Utah-based Noah Corp. builds and operates more than 30 event venues nationwide, including one in Chandler. Now the event industry company is entering the sharing economy with its newest venture.

“We saw a key element missing in the sharing economy,” said Theresa Mikrut, director of sales and operations for Emzara.

“Airbnb created the marketplace for your extra bedroom and Uber did the same for your vehicle, but there was nothing like that in the event industry.”

Property owners can apply online to become a featured property. Listing a property on the site is free, however, each property must meet certain requirements, such as proximity to an airport, sufficient parking, and the ability to obtain proper event permits if needed.

“There are so many brides who want to skip the traditional banquet hall and really make a statement with their wedding venues,” Mikrut said. “And there are just as many people who own beautiful private properties who would love to make extra money renting them out occasionally for weddings

and events. Emzara will finally connect these two groups of people.”

Brides and event organizers can view available properties and book them online at emzara.com. Emzara certified event coordinators will serve as the gobetweens to event organizers and the property owners through the process and on the day of the event.

Teacher shows way to take art, photography to the next level

Christopher Colville, an instructor and photographer, is conducting a seven-week seminar for photographers and artists to create a cohesive body of work and receive feedback.

Seminar meetings are structured throughout an almost 3-month period to allow time in between to create new work. Classes will be held Sept. 8, 12 and 22, Oct. 13 and 27 and Dec. 1 at Art Intersection, 207 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 201, Gilbert.

The classes will provide an informed direction on how to take artwork to the next level, no matter what level the participant is currently on. In addition to group critiques, each participant will have a private consultation with Colville. Past participants have been accepted into graduate school, found gallery representation and have been invited to exhibit work at Art Intersection Galleries. Info: info@artintersection.com and 480-361-1118.

Emzara hopes to emulate the rapid success of other startups in the sharing economy. Airbnb, which launched in 2008, features more than 2 million listings worldwide and was recently valued at over $25 billion.

“Noah’s Event Venues have set the bar when it comes to customer service and event expertise at our venues

across the country,” said Noah Corp. COO Nick Redd. “Emzara allows us to leverage that industry experience and our reputation for customer service to create the first sharing economy in the event industry. We know there is a market for unique, one-of-a-kind event spaces and we know that we are the right people to meet that need.”

Lesley Anderson has joined NextHome Valleywide, a real estate brokerage company in Chandler, as its new marketing manager.

NextHome Valleywide announces hiring of new marketing manager

Lesley Anderson has joined NextHome Valleywide, a real estate brokerage company at 1490 S. Price Rd., Suite 106, Chandler, as its new marketing manager. She will be responsible for all marketing campaigns and promotions to drive sales and growth to the brokerage. Anderson has several years of

experience in real estate, as well as a background in marketing and special events. She holds a degree in communication with a minor in marketing from Arizona State University. Owners Craig and Stacey Akers have the first NextHome franchise in Arizona. Info: NextHomeValleywide.com or 480-621-6828.

Christopher Colville is conducting a seven-week seminar for photographers and artists to create a cohesive body of work and receive feedback.

Chandler’s Miriani awarded Realtor Institute honor

Gwen Miriani, a member of the Southeast Valley Realtor Association, was recently awarded the Graduate, Realtor Institute designation by the Arizona Association of Realtors.

She received the designation after completing more than 95 hours of classroom instruction and examinations that covered contract law, professional standards, sales and marketing, finance and risk reduction. Courses were taught by real estate instructors from around the state.

Miriani has almost two decades of banking and loan experience, with a background in underwriting, originating and quality control for several major banking institutions. She volunteers for Underdog Rescue of Arizona.

She attended Arzona State University and enjoys spending free time with her husband and 9-monthold son.

The SVRA is among 1,800 associations of Realtors that comprise the National Association of Realtors, representing over 800,000 real estate professionals around the country. Info: livethelifearizona.com.

Chandler resident wins Food City Aguas Frescas Instagram contest

Tellez, a 22-year-old Chandler resident, will receive free aguas frescas in September as one of three winners of Food City’s Aguas Frescas Instagram contest. She entered the contest by sharing a selfie or video enjoying her favorite Food City aguas frescas on Instagram using the #FCaguasfrescas hashtag.

Tellez and the other two winners, from Tucson, were randomly drawn from all the entries, and will receive a customized

Food City gift card to redeem free aguas frescas drinks in September. All three winners said their favorite aguas frescas drink flavor is horchata.

Aguas frescas and other traditional Mexican foods and mainstream grocery staples are available at 35 Food City locations across Arizona. Info: @ FoodCityArizona and @FoodCityEspanol on Facebook.

Gwen Miriani was recently awarded the Graduate, Realtor Institute designation by the Arizona Association of Realtors.

Ruby

Ruby Tellez, a 22-year-old Chandler resident, enjoys a large aguas frescas drink on a hot afternoon.

Chamber events feature lunches, meetings for members

Throughout the year, the Chandler Chamber of Commerce offers a variety of luncheons and meetings for its members and the community.

Events are at the Chandler Chamber of Commerce office, 25 S. Arizona Pl., Suite 201, unless otherwise noted.

To register, call 480-963-4571, visit chandlerchamber.com or email info@ chandlerchamber.com. No refunds are available within 72 hours of the event.

Public Policy Series

8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 9 Tempe Councilwoman Lauren Kuby and Garrick Taylor of the Arizona Chamber will discuss the pros and cons for the minimum wage

increase ballot initiative. Sponsored by Air Products, Catalyst Computer Technologies, Intel, SRP, Southwest Gas Company and APS.

Wake Up Chandler

7:30 a.m.to 9 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14

Enjoy the food and network with other businesses. Sponsored by Autopro Collision Center. Comerica Bank, 2200 S. Gilbert Rd., Chandler.

Chamber Charity Golf Tournament

6 a.m. registration and breakfast and 7 a.m. call to carts, Friday, Sept. 16

The annual charity golf tournament benefits the Chamber’s programs and events throughout the year and also

raises funds for the Chandler Chamber Community Foundation scholarships to Chandler/Gilbert Community College. Register at www.bit.ly/2bJQDCA. Whirlwind Golf Club, 5692 W. North Loop Rd., Chandler

Chandler Chamber Lunch Club

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 19 Network and promote your business while having dining at a hometown restaurant. Sponsored by Bell Mortgage. Dragon Wok, 727 W. Ray Rd., Gilbert.

Women in Business Luncheon 10:30 a.m. mentoring and noon keynote/lunch, Tuesday, Sept. 20 Sherri Thomas, founder and president

of Career Coach 360, will present, “The Bounce Back” about changing, reinventing or advancing a career with a powerful personal brand to create more career opportunities. Soho 63, 63 Boston St., Chandler.

The Top 100 5:30 p.m. cocktails and 6 p.m. program, Wednesday, Oct. 26 Mayor Jay Tibshraeny will honor the top 100 companies in Chandler along with videos from J2 Media. Quantum Helicopter, 2401 S. Heliport Way, Chandler.

LENDING A HAND

This summer, the East Valley chapter of the Independent Pool and Spa Service Association (IPSSA) Region 8 donated $1,500 to Pitchfork Aquatics for swimming lessons. This enabled several children at the Chandler Compadre Branch of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley to receive swim lessons over an eight-week summer session as part of

from

Aquatics.

Canales, head coach of the Pitchfork Aquatics Club Team, and Angela M. Clark of the IPSSA East Valley Chapter.

• Vehicle registration

• Title transfer

• Duplicate registration / title

• Replacement plate or TAB

• Permit 3 day, 30 day and 90 day

• Level one inspection: bond title, title inspection, abandoned title inspection

• Mobile home

• Handicap placard / plate

• MVR: 3 year uncertified, 5 year certified

• Driver license record: 3 year uncertified, 5 year certified

• Fleet registration

2040 S. Alma School Rd., #23, Chandler, AZ 85286 480-855-1638 Fax: 480-855-1639

Damon Jeffrey named director of development services at VanTrust

VanTrust Real Estate LLC has named Damon Jeffrey as director of development services. In his role, he will work with designers and contractors to execute projects as they are identified during development.

Jeffrey’s projects include Chandler Corporate Center, a 119,000-square-foot office development on Chandler Boulevard and North McClintock Drive in Chandler, and Peak 16, a 233-unit, luxury, multifamily development on 16th and Colter streets in Phoenix, slated for completion in March 2018.

Following the company announcement Jeffrey said, “This position affords me a new challenge while continuing to participate with architects and contractors in the multifamily, industrial and office market sectors. I am fortunate to be joining such a respected group as VanTrust Real Estate.”

Jeffrey brings more than 15 years of

experience as an office and industrial project manager and estimator, with his most recent project being the Iris USA, a 500,000-square-foot manufacturing facility for plastic injection modeling in Surprise.

According to Keith Earnest, executive vice president of VanTrust Real Estate, “Damon’s experience and industry knowledge makes him a great addition to our organization. With several significant projects currently in development, we needed a seasoned professional who understands a variety of project types. I’m confident that Damon will be a positive addition to our team.”

Jeffrey was raised in Southern California and has resided in Arizona for the last 17 years. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the College of Architecture and Design at ASU.

Career fair set for Sept. 7

National Career Fairs want to put Chandler back to work.

The organization is hosting a professional hiring event for all job seekers from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 7, at the Hilton Phoenix Chandler.

National Career Fairs has been in business more than 16 years and it hosts approximately 400 event per year. Customers include Verizon Wireless, Senergy Solar Inc.,

Entravision, Shutterfly, CVS Health Aflac, ITT, Sears, Walgreens and Miami Dolphins.

The organization lines up ideal candidates for in-person meetings with all interested employers.

The Hilton Phoenix Chandler is located at 2929 W. Frye Rd., Chandler. This event is free to anyone looking for a job and they can register and upload their resume at nationalcareerfairs.com.

Pitchfork

Pictured,

left to right, Mark Cyr of the IPSSA East Valley Chapter, Fernando

Sadie Robertson of ‘Duck Dynasty’ brings inspirational event to GCU

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSI

With her dimples and engaging smile, Sadie Robertson just wants to make the world a better place.

A member of the “Duck Dynasty” clan, the 19-year-old Robertson is taking it one step at a time with her next chapter of “The Live Original Tour 2016,” which comes to Grand Canyon University on Tuesday, Sept. 27.

“It’s going to be one of those events where you say, ‘We laughed, we cried, we did a little of everything,’” Robertson said.

“It’s going to be so much fun. Kids, teens and young adults are going to have a good night. It’s going to be life changing. A lot of times, you have this motivation, this little spark, and you want to do good. I’m going to show you this is how you do it, this is how you go out and truly do it. It starts tonight”

She’s doing it with a little help from her “squad,” which includes her brother John Luke and his wife Mary Kate Robertson, cousins Reed and Cole Robertson, Reed’s fiancée Brighton Thompson and filmmaker Max Zoghbi and his wife Bonnie Kate, who hold a unique and inspirational tale of their faith as victims of “The Dark Knight” shooting in Colorado in 2012.

The close-knit group will share their hearts, take attendees on a journey of inspirational messages, dramatic onstage performances, Q&As and a few surprises. Musical guests on the tour include Christian rockers Family Force 5, husband and wife duo Love and the Outcome and Reno.

A vision Robertson created “The Live Original Tour” based on a vision she had a couple years ago.

“I had this vision from God about two years to go host my own event and call it ‘Live Original,’” she said. “That’s what my book was called. I told my mom I wanted to do it and she made me think about it. She waited a week and asked me again. I still wanted to do it.”

She did a test run of it in Nashville and sold 4,500 tickets, “which is great for Nashville,” she said. “I thought we could do

this. This isn’t about me and more people knowing my name.

“There is just a definite need for this in the world right now. We need something that’s solid, positive and good.”

Robertson has carried her philosophy into multiple business ventures, including a prom dress line with Sherri Hill, school supplies for DaySpring, jewelry and home goods with Glory Haus, and a fashion line with Wild Blue Denim that can be found at Rue 21 stores nationwide.

“We have a lot going on,” she said. “I have a clothing line, a book and several other

things. My clothing line is great for girls to comfortable in. I also have a devotional book coming out this fall. There are a lot of good things going on that’s helping the world.”

Writing the book, she said, was challenging.

“I had a lot of help,” she said. “I love the process. It was very fun. I do not like to read, so when they asked me to write a book, I was like, ‘Are you kidding me?’ Then I met with the author, we came up with the story and the rest was easy. It ended up being a great book. One that I’ve read. It I can read it, anybody can.”

Robertson recently returned from a

mission trip to Uganda where the “Live Original” tour posse met and learned from Help One Now’s local leader, Pastor Edward Magumba, and his team who started His Mercy School to benefit orphans and children from extremely poor families in the Mayuge district in Uganda.

Robertson was inspired to give back by her family—grandfather Phil Robertson, founder of Duck Commander, and parents Korie Howard Robertson and Willie Robertson, the company’s current CEO. She has five siblings; John Luke Robertson, Rebecca Robertson, Willie Jr. Robertson, Bella Robertson and Rowdy Robertson.

She said it would be difficult growing up in the spotlight, if she didn’t have her parents and family for support.

“I think it would be hard to do it by myself,” Robertson said. “The whole family doing it with me. They keep me grounded. It’s very helpful. They are very supportive. My mom is with me at all of the meetings. She’s on almost every call.

“I feel very, very blessed to have this opportunity and to have the platform that I’ve had. God gave me millions of people to inspire. I love giving back and helping people. It makes life easier.”

At “The Live Original Tour 2016,” Robertson hopes to break down barriers.

“You can be a fan and look up to me like on Instagram,” she said. “But this is about being a friend. You’re going from a fan to a friend. You’re not just looking at me from afar. You’re literally looking at me. I don’t want people to idolize me. I want people to relate to me.”

Sadie Robertson recently returned from a mission trip to Uganda where the “Live Original” tour posse met and learned from Help One Now’s local leader, Pastor Edward Magumba.

Sadie Robertson organized “The Live Original Tour” after having an epiphany.

Local host families sought for foreign exchange students

ASSE International Student Exchange Programs (ASSE) is looking for local families to host boys and girls between the ages of 15 to 18 from a variety of countries, including Norway, Denmark, Spain, Italy and Japan.

ASSE students are enthusiastic and excited to experience American culture while they practice their English. They also love to share their own culture and language with their host families. Host families welcome these students into their family, not as a guest, but as a family member, giving everyone involved a rich cultural experience.

The exchange students have pocket money for personal expenses and full health, accident and liability insurance. ASSE students are selected based on academics and personality, and host families can choose their student from a wide variety of backgrounds, countries and personal interests.

To become an ASSE Host Family or to find out how to become involved with ASSE in your community, please call the ASSE Western Regional Office at 1-800733-2773 or go to host.asse.com to begin a host family application.

Western State Bank awards students with Pays for A’s scholarship

Western State Bank recently awarded two local students $250 savings scholarships as part of the scholastic recognition program, Western Pays for A’s.

The scholastic recognition program is designed to reward students for their hard work in school.

Hailey Barnum and Carly Zander, both of Chandler, were selected as the Western Pays for A’s $250 savings scholarships winners for the second semester of the 2015-2016 school year.

“Western is dedicated to supporting our community, especially our schools. We recognize students for their academic efforts and support them as they prepare for their future education,” said Andy Strand, president.

Students in sixth through 12th grade are encouraged to bring their report cards

into Western State Bank following each quarter. Students will receive $1 for each “A” they receive on their report card. Additionally, students will receive an entry into the $250 scholarship drawing for each “A” they have earned. Each year, students in grades 6-12 will have the opportunity to begin saving toward their college education. Students are limited to winning one scholarship per school year.

Western State Bank is a 114-year-old employee-owned, community bank with assets totaling over $850 million. The bank offers superior full-banking services, investments, real estate financing to personal and business customers, as well as nationwide equipment financing services. Western State Bank’s bank locations are located in Chandler, Sun City, Scottsdale and Casa Grande.

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Holiday Banner Challenge accepting entries from student artists

For the first time, Downtown Chandler Community Partnership and SpeedPro Imaging are partnering to bring the Downtown Chandler Holiday Banner Challenge. Chandler high school students are invited to submit banner designs for a chance to have their work displayed in downtown Chandler and win prizes.

Participants are asked to create holiday-inspired designs for the banners lining Arizona Avenue, during the holiday months. All high school students within the Chandler Unified School District are eligible to apply. Designs must be submitted digitally by Monday, Oct. 17.

Two winners will be chosen through public input and a panel of judges. The public will vote on finalists and pick a community favorite at the third annual Zombie Art Walk on Friday, Oct. 21. A panel comprised of prominent Chandler leaders will ultimately choose both winners, with the community favorite being strongly considered. Winners will be announced Oct. 24.

The two selected artists will be presented with a plaque of their winning designs by Mayor Jay Tibshraeny at the Chandler City Council meeting at 7 p.m. Nov. 7. In addition, winners will receive a $50 gift card to a downtown Chandler restaurant and an educational scholarship presented by Downtown Chandler Community Foundation.

The banners will be displayed on the banner poles along Arizona Avenue between Chandler Boulevard and Frye Road from Nov. 7 to Jan. 13. During this time, the downtown will be decorated in holiday lights to add to the festivities.

Timeline of events:

• Oct. 17: Design due date

• Oct. 21: (Zombie Art Walk)

Public vote to pick the community favorite

• Oct. 24: Winners announced

• Nov. 7: Winners presented with a plaque of their designs by Mayor Jay Tibshraeny

• Nov. 14 to Jan. 13: Banners displayed downtown

More information, including guidelines, submittal process, and design specs, visit downtownchandler.org.

The Downtown Chandler Community Partnership (DCCP) is a not-for-profit corporation whose mission is to mobilize leadership and resources to advance the development of Downtown Chandler as a regional destination for shopping, dining, living, culture and the arts. downtownchandler.org.

Chandler high school students are invited to submit banner designs for a chance to have their work displayed in downtown Chandler and win prizes.

STEM Saturday educational program returns to Tumbleweed Ranch

Beginning in October, the Chandler Museum and the Museum of Science and Sustainability (MoSS) will partner once again to offer monthly STEM Saturday programs designed for youth, ages 5 to 12, but suitable for anyone interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The first STEM Saturday is on Oct. 8, and they continue once a month through April. The programs are hosted at Chandler Museum’s Tumbleweed Ranch, located within Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S. McQueen Rd.

There is no charge to attend STEM Saturday programming, except in March when the program will be included with admission to the annual Ostrich Festival. Families are welcome to drop in anytime between 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., to experience relevant interactive science based activities that convey a multifaceted overview of the monthly theme.

“The Chandler Museum started STEM programming at the Ranch eight years ago as a unique way to engage youth

with science and history,” said Chandler Museum Administrator Jody Crago. “The Museum of Science and Sustainability is the perfect partner, bringing incredible expertise and resources that result in high quality, engaging science programming for our young participants.”

The series starts on Oct. 8 with Urban Gardening for Every Home which invites participants to explore new and old water conservation technology for gardening. Attendees also will learn about ancient farming methods and make their own preservation system with green onion that can last for months without refrigeration.

The next program in the series, Olde Time Communication, will be on Nov. 12, with attendees exploring how their ancestors communicated long before there was Facebook and Twitter. Participants will try out a telegraph, operate a switchboard, test their verbal communication skills and find out why pigeons were good postal workers.

“This year, our scientists and engineers

have created the most engaging STEM exhibits and activities we’ve had to date,” said Disa McAlister, executive director of the Museum of Science and Sustainability.

“We are very excited to partner with Chandler Museum again to provide fun educational programs for the people of Chandler.”

For more information, call 480-7822874, or visit chandlermuseum.org.

The Chandler Museum is an interdisciplinary learning environment where the community comes together to share its stories, preserve its cultural heritage and experience Chandler as a people and place. The vision of the museum is to be the community’s principal resource to explore its people’s history, culture and place in a rapidly changing world of today—within and without the walls of a building. More at chandlermuseum.org.

The Museum of Science and Sustainability (MoSS) is a nonprofit organization that inspires and educates in the fields of science and sustainable living.

The organization’s ultimate purpose is to familiarize and educate the general public on the areas of science and sustainability.

MoSS has a special emphasis on education for children in fourth through ninth grades using interactive displays and hands-on experiments, which is a natural and unintimidating way to generate long term interest in STEM subjects and sustainability. More at thebigmoss.org.

STEM Saturday schedule Oct. 8 – Urban Gardening for Every Home Nov. 12 – Olde Time Communication Dec. 10 – Marvelous Materials Jan. 7 – Waves: The Doppler Effect and More Feb. 11 – Microorganisms: The Invisible World March 11 – Science of Birds April 8 – Electricity: May the Spark Be With You

Operation Back to School Chandler assists more than 2,500 students

School is back in session, and thanks to the generosity of volunteers and sponsors, more than 2,500 Chandler students received backpacks filled with a variety of supplies needed for a successful school year.

In addition to the free backpacks, more than 2,500 pairs of underwear and socks, 1,400 uniforms, 1,000 books and 300 pairs of shoes were distributed. Other faith groups provided uniforms and backpacks in collaboration with Operation Back to School, which eliminated duplication of efforts as well as an extension of resources. More than 50 organizations also participated at the event to pass out information about various services available to Chandler families and students.

“This is our fourth annual event, and each year, it gets bigger and better,” said Councilman Kevin Hartke. “We couldn’t organize this event without the help from our corporate partners, nonprofits and the donations from our residents and City employees. We thank everyone who contributed this year.”

Operation Back to School Chandler is organized by: Chandler Christian Community Center, Chandler Unified School District, CARE Center, Fans Across America, CrossRoads Nazarene Church, Chandler Neighborhood Resources, ICAN, Boys & Girls Club, EV Jewish Community Center, M.I.L.K., Valley of the Sun United Way and For Our City - Chandler.

City officials would like to thank the

event’s generous sponsors, including Chandler Compadres, Salt River Project, Chandler Service Club, Intel, East Valley JCC, Whataburger, Nazarene, Cox Communications, First Things First, Scott Detherage Foundation, Chandler

Firefighter Charities, Chandler United Methodist Church, Downtown Chandler Community Foundation, Trinity Christian Fellowship, Kiwanas, Under the Shield - Team 905, APS, Sun Lakes United Church of Christ, CARE Inc.,

Seniors from Chandler Senior Center, Chase’s Diner, Riviera Broadcasting, St. Andrew the Apostle Church, Chandler Non-Profit Coalition, Clothes Cabin and the Islamic Center of the East Valley.

Comprehensive Pediatric care from Birth to 18 Years • In-house Lactation (Breastfeeding) consultation • In-house consultation in Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics • Medical home for children with Special Health Care Needs

• Complimentary Meet the Doctor visit for expecting parents • Evening hours Monday-Thursday until 8pm by appt only

• Saturday hours from 8am-12pm by appointment only • Bilingual office staff and providers

Thousands of families attend this year’s Operation Back to School event at Chandler High School.

CHANDLER UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS

Sept. 5: Labor Day (no school)

Sept. 30: First quarter ends

BASHA HIGH SCHOOL

Basha High School’s AMS-Accelerated Middle School program for sixth to eighth has exceeded our growth expectations. Growing by an impressive amount of roughly 90 students. “Our new students are raving about their specialized teachers at AMS, being challenged, and how easy it is to make friends that make them feel like they belong,” said department head Amanda Cook. “We are excited to see these junior high students grow and continue to succeed on the Basha High campus until they graduate as Basha Bears.”

—Terri Anasagasti

CTA FREEDOM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

The new CTA Freedom STEM preschool class found successful with its first experiment called Germ Science: Hand Washing Matters. In the experiment, preschoolers predicted

how many days it would take before observable decomposition to bread appeared comparing touching bread with dirty hands, applying hand sanitizer to bread and finally, not touching the bread at all. Teacher Carol Brown reported that preschoolers are documenting each step of their experiment in their own science journals.

—Amie P. Chombah

WEINBERG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

The school year has gotten off to a great start. The fourth-grade students are learning about the different counties in Arizona. They culminated their unit by making cookie maps, and munching on their creations to celebrate a successful unit.

The fifth graders have started learning about finances in preparation for their upcoming visit to Biztown. The kindergarteners have been working on Thinking Maps, and are so brilliant that their circle maps were shown and displayed in the first staff meeting.

—Heidi Huggins

STUDENT CHRONICLES

Know of a student doing something incredible? Tell us about it! Email christina@santansun.com.

Kayla Glenn of Chandler was named to the University of Dallas Honor Roll for the spring 2016 semester for earning a semester GPA of 3.0-3.49. Glenn is majoring in biology.

More than 400 University of Dallas students have been named to the Spring 2016 Dean’s List for earning a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Anne Fischer and Samuel Walterscheid of Chandler.

The University of Dallas in Irving, Texas, is a leading Catholic university widely recognized for academic excellence by well-known publications, organizations and accrediting bodies. It offers distinctive individual undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs in the liberal arts, business and ministry that are characterized by an exceptional, engaged faculty, a commitment to shaping principled, well-skilled leaders and academic rigor in the Catholic intellectual tradition. For more information, visit udallas.edu.

Halloween starts in September in SoCal

BY RANDY MONTGOMERY

Halloween is just around the corner and the season begins earlier each year as

Southern California attractions prepare for what has become one of their busiest seasons.

Halloween Horror Nights

Sept. 16 through Oct. 31

(exact dates TBD)

Universal Studios utilizes its Hollywood roots to deliver one of the most detailed and intense Halloween attractions anywhere in the world. This year’s Horror Nights will feature a parkwide scare zone replicating the recent release of “The Purge: Election Year.” Horror franchise characters will be brought to life in a variety of walk-through mazes featuring Freddy vs. Jason, Michael Meyers and Leatherface. If that wasn’t enough, other attractions will be based on “The Walking Dead,” “The Exorcist” and the horrorthemed Christmas movie, “Krampus.”

Universal Studios Hollywood

100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, California 800-864-8377 universalstudioshollywood.com

For more photos and updates, visit:facebook.com/theFUNnelCakeBlog

Fright Fest | Sept. 17 to Oct. 30

Fright Fest has quickly become a favorite among theme park enthusiasts. Once considered the “underdog,” this event has grown significantly. The park will bring DC Comic’s “The Suicide Squad” to life in a terrifying scare zone. Walk-through attractions include “Red’s Revenge” and “Vault 666.” A newly relocated maze called “Aftermath 2,” will be the biggest in the park’s history. The best part, Fright Fest is included in general admission. Only an upcharge wristband is required to enter the mazes once the sun goes down.

Six Flags Magic Mountain 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy., Valencia, California

661-255-4100

sixflags.com/magicmountain

Dark Harbor

Sept. 29 to Oct. 31

With mazes based on real ghost stories from the massive ship’s long history, guests traverse through rarely seen sections of the boat. A fun, carnival atmosphere is enhanced by dozens of monsters looking to scare the daylights out of you as you wander the grounds. Visit “Circus: Big Top Terror,” or meet Scary Mary aboard the ship. Visit “The Sideshow” for an entertaining evening of freaks and geeks. New this year, The Iron Master comes to life in an all-new maze and will terrify guests.

Queen Mary 1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach, California | 877-342-0738 queenmary.com

From Dr. Chamberlain’s Desktop

Recently took my family on a Disney Cruise to the Bahamas. This was our second cruise for our family and the first to the Bahamas and on a Disney cruise line. Our family thoroughly enjoyed the experience. We loved the food and the ship was very entertaining. One of the items that really kept my attention was the people watching. There is plenty of that available on a cruise. What I noticed most was that I was easily able to watch families interact with each other at different situations. It believe a cruise is the closest you could come to observing a family interact with each other without being too intrusive into their home. You can watch how they interact at the dinner table, how they discipline and how siblings treat each other. You can also view cultural differences with how husbands and wives interact and associate with their children. What I noted from my very unscientific and disorganized observations was that, like all of us on this earth, there is so much diversity in family life. I witnessed such diversity in which I was embarrassed for the parent and felt sorry for the child that was being ridiculed in public. I was caught smiling

when I witnessed a young child beaming with joy as she and her father were playing in the water together. I was encouraged watching a child and mother work through an interactive mystery puzzle onboard the ship. There was kindness, joy and unfortunately, harshness and rudeness. One family in particular I enjoyed watching. I happened to know a bit about their family as the father is a well known leader in our church. I observed how he and 31 of his family members showed love and patience and found joy in each others company. What I noted from my observations with his family is that he and his wife had intentionally created a legacy with his children and his many grandchildren. You could tell they all looked to them as the patriarch and matriarch of their family. There was love and respect for each other as they enjoyed this short vacation together. I know that they don’t have a perfect family. I doubt anyone has. But from my observations of them and others, I know they were intentionally trying to create that. It has been said that happiness is homemade. It takes constant, careful effort by all. Are you intentional in creating a warm and positive environment in your home? Do you plan and act according to a plan or do you just react to momentary emotions and feelings at any given time? How do you build greater family unity and love within the walls of your home? These are questions we should ask ourselves or discuss with our spouses. Building a

positive family legacy where children and grandchildren desire to be together is possible for anyone who makes it priority. This school year, I have a goal to choose to always show love to my children. Even when they disappoint me. I can teach with love and respect. I can discipline without belittling and berating. Take a moment to set some goals for this school year as a parent. If you would like to share them with me, I’d love to hear from you. Email me your ideas or your thoughts at info@ smilestraight.com.

Dr. Thomas Chamberlain

Tips to fill your day with active play

As the busy school year progresses, it can be challenging for families to find time to play and stay active together. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that kids participate in 60 minutes or more of physical activity each day, but unfortunately this isn’t always what they are getting.

Play is an important part of a child’s physical, emotional and social development, yet many external factors can quickly become barriers to active play including busy schedules, technology and the costs of sports equipment. A survey conducted by Dr. Pepper Snapple Group’s Let’s Play initiative, which is dedicated to getting kids and their families active, found that only 33% of children are participating in active play daily, down from 41% in 2015.

Don’t let barriers get in the way of keeping kids active during the school year. Instead, turn those barriers to play into opportunities to get active with the following tips.

Fill down time with play time: Children’s active play time is impacted by busy schedules—64% of parents said busy schedules were a barrier to play this year, up from 56% in 2015. Active play doesn’t have to happen all at once; it can be spread out through the day so try fitting it in when you can, even if it’s in 10-minute increments. Waiting with your kids at a bus stop? Make it active by playing a game of Simon Says. Need 10 minutes to get ready to leave the house? Send the kids outside

to play before loading up the car.

Make DIY toys: Sports equipment can be pricey to purchase and maintain. Instead of breaking the bank, try recycling objects around the house to make them into toys. You can make old socks into a hacky-sack game by filling them with beans or fill balloons with sand and create a fun game where you toss the balloons into buckets.

Get wired for play: According to the survey, 78% of parents said their children spend more than 30 minutes on an

average day watching television and 71% said their children spend that time on a computer, smartphone or other device. Instead of letting technology get in the way, incorporate play into their time with technology. Have your child play an active video game that encourages players to move around their environment or try playing a game between TV commercials, such as tag or hide and seek. It can also help to set a limit for how long your child can use the computer or watch TV per day.

Be your kid’s playmate: According to

the survey, 53% of parents said having no playmates was a barrier to their child’s play. No one likes to play alone, so when siblings and friends aren’t available, join in on the fun and create games you and your child can play together. Whether it’s playing Marco Polo or throwing a baseball back and forth, you can find ways to spend quality time with your kids and have fun while doing it.

Learn more about the importance of play and get tips and advice for how to make active play a daily priority at LetsPlay.com.

PERFECTION HAPPENS AT

Multicultural Educational Conference returns to Chandler Seminar set for Sept. 17 at local community college

The fifth annual AZ Multicultural Education Conference brings together faculty, educators, pre-service education majors, diversity awareness consultants, and community residents to join forces in “Facing and Forging Multicultural Relationships.”

It will be held from 7:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, at Chandler-Gilbert Community College, 2626 E. Pecos Rd. Admission is free and includes breakfast and lunch.

Education certification hours are provided. For more information and to register, visit eventbrite.com/o/6905632403

Aspects of diversity addressed at the conference include culture, gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion, ethnicity and immigration. Breakout sessions will be presented by educators and consultants. While the presenter in each session will provide information, he/she will also actively engage the audience in discussions of: how the information may be effectively implemented inside/outside the classroom, a discussion of possible outcomes/implications, and finally what is the cognitive/affective impact on the educational community and community at-large. Each session is devoted toward an interactive sharing of ideas and perspectives on the issue presented. The keynote speaker is Shakti Butler, PhD, a filmmaker and founder and preside of World Trust. She has been called a dynamic educator in the field of diversity

and racial equity. Butler is a multiracial African-American woman whose work as a creative and visionary bridge builder has challenged and inspired learning for over two decades.

Jaime Casap is the special guest. He is the chief education evangelist at Google. Casap evangelizes the power and potential of the web, technology and Google tools as enabling and supporting capabilities in

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pursuit of fostering inquiry-driven projectbased learning models. He collaborates with educational organizations and leaders building innovation and iteration into our education practices.

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Shakti Butler, PhD, is the keynote speaker at the Multicultural Education Conference.

Community Commentary

Letter to the Editor

Fight hunger 30 ways in September A sizzling August for Chandler economic development news

BY MAYOR JAY TIBSHRAENY

The summer months are generally a slower time in Arizona as the heat tends to keep activity levels low. But on the business front, we just witnessed perhaps the busiest August in recent memory. It began when Rogers has announced the move of its corporate headquarters to Chandler.

Rogers’ Advanced Connectivity Solutions has already been manufacturing in Chandler for 50 years and is generally known as our first significant technology company. Rogers employs more than 400 people at its site on Dobson Road and Chandler Boulevard. The new corporate headquarters will be home to approximately 70 corporate employees who support Rogers in areas such as human resources, information technology and finance. We truly appreciate the continued investment that Rogers makes here in Chandler and we look forward to their continued growth and development.

That Friday event was followed by an open house on Saturday that drew thousands of residents eager to know more about this leading edge technology. It was great to see all the families streaming into the downtown to learn about the project Google has brought to Chandler. Our city was just the fourth in the nation to be home to the test vehicles, and I believe they made a wise choice, given Chandler’s standing as the Innovation and Technology Hub of the Southwest.

On the following Monday, DaVita RX dedicated its new facility in West Chandler. DaVita is a large pharmaceutical operation that targets kidney disease patients. Their presence in Chandler includes plans to ramp up to about 600 employees over time. It’s a fascinating operation and it was a great chance to learn more about their business and meet the team.

One in five Arizonans struggles with hunger each day. Nearly one in three children is our state isn’t able to enjoy three meals a day. These statistics are true each day of the year. But in September, food banks across the country attempt to raise special awareness and encourage the public to make a special effort to help those in need during Hunger Action Month.

The St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance “30 Ways in 30 Days” Hunger Action Month calendar provides recognizes those helping in the fight and provides an action or activity for every day in September so all Arizonans can step forward and help those struggling with food insecurity. How can you help? It can be as simple as making a cup of coffee or a brown-bag lunch at home and donating what you would have spent that day to help the hungry—every dollar donated will all St. Mary’s to distribute enough food for seven meals. Or you can take advantage of many ways to donate time, food or funds alongside some of the many local businesses who will step up during Hunger Action Month.

Gov. Doug Ducey has proclaimed September as “Hunger Action Month” in Arizona.

Just some of the great events planned for the month include:

Shortly after the news of the new corporate headquarters locate, Google rolled out its self-driving car project to the community with two events. The first was a VIP reception that featured Gov. Doug Ducey and Google Self-Driving Car CEO John Krafcik. We had a great turnout from the Chandler business community, including a number of Chamber members and staff.

Finally, I was honored to be named the new president of the League of Arizona Cities and Towns. This position will allow me to work more closely with the governor and our Legislature on issues critical to Chandler, including those that involve our continued economic success as a true leader in the region.

While our August temperatures were hot, the business front was sizzling. And that’s a good thing for the future of our community.

• To celebrate national “Go Orange Day” on Thursday Sept. 8, Arizona politicians and news personalities will mark the day by wearing orange ties, and other clothing items to raise awareness to the issue of hunger.

• Arizona’s tallest building, the 483foot Chase Tower in Phoenix, will glow orange—the color of hunger— every Wednesday night in September beginning on Sept. 1 as a reminder of those who go to bed hungry each day. Chase employees will also hold a special floor-to-floor food drive in the tower during September.

• Concert fans who bring five canned food items or $5 to the Monkees show at Mesa Arts Center (Thursday, Sept. 15) and the Squeeze show at Scottsdale Center for the Arts (Wednesday, Sept. 21) will be entered into a raffle for a chance to move to two front-row tickets to the show.

• Volunteers from Arizona Ford Dealers will volunteer at St. Mary’s Knight Transportation Client Services Center on Wednesday Sept. 14, to assist clients with food boxes and donate 50,000 meals to the Food Bank.

• You can enjoy a day of fun at Castles & Coasters on Saturday Sept. 24. A donation of 10 canned food items (excluding water and ramen noodles) will allow you free entrance into the park and save the normal $24.99 entry fee. What a way to help out!

• Runners can help fight hunger by taking part in the Bimbo Global Energy Race on Sunday, Sept. 25, at the Scottsdale Sports Complex. Every runner who takes park in the event will help St. Mary’s earn food items from Bimbo with every mile they run. There are many other ways to help and many other companies, churches and groups who will hold events or volunteer their time during Hunger Action Month. Visit stmarysfoodbank. org for a full calendar of “30 Ways in 30 Days” activities. Pick out the ones that appeal to you—or better yet, come up with an idea to help yourself and let us know what you’re up to on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ firstfoodbank or Twitter (www.twitter. com/StMarysFoodBank ) so we can help spotlight your efforts!

Jerry Brown Director of Public Relations St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance

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Slip, Sliding Away

Slide out of summer with a splash at Slide Across America festival

BY KIMBERLY HOSEY

With the summer coming to a close (even Arizona’s extended summer is starting to simmer down) and water parks closing for the school year, you might have thought you were out of opportunities to treat your kids—and yourself—to a day of slides and water play. If you were pining for one last splash, you’re in luck: Salt River Fields, together with AZ Bounce Pro, is bringing back the popular Slide Across America event for three days Friday, Sept. 23, through Sunday, Sept. 25.

Slide Across America is the largest inflatable water park in the country. The three-day bash this month will feature more than 25 water slides, including the highlight of the event, the Dropkick Slide—a 42-foot-high slide that launches riders into the air at the end of the slide, for a dramatic (but safe) landing in a giant stunt bag.

plain looks fun. Giant, towering, boldly colored (and boldly huge) slides? Yes, please!

Other slides will include the 40-foothigh Hippo Slide, similar to the Dropkick but with more of a splashdown than a

launch at the end; and 36-foot-high Tidal Wave Slide, known for its steep incline. These are the events I live for: My teen will actually be excited, we’ll spend a great end-of-summer day together—and it just

2, 3

Some of the larger rides, like the Dropkick Slide, are restricted to older guests, but there will be small inflatable slides specially for little ones as well. This truly is a family-friendly event: No matter your family makeup, you’re likely to find something for everyone to love here. If you tire of sliding, try the spin cycle ride—otherwise known to my family as “that spinning upside-down space-age thing that looks like it should make you sick but doesn’t.” Spin at your own risk, of course, but we’re certainly thinking of trying it.

Also available will be a 25-foot-tall rock climbing wall, complete with climbing equipment, bungee trampolines, a zipline and more.

AZ Bounce Pro is providing the attractions, which it usually rents to events or individuals. Here, dozens of attractions will be available at once. It will be set up like a festival or carnival: No need to

Slide Across America comes to Salt River Fields Friday, Sept. 23, through Sunday, Sept. 25, with more than 25 water slides.

Slide Across America is a family-friendly event, but some of the attractions are restricted to older guests.

Adult Night is for the children at heart.

September 2016

proceed through every slide or activity; just pick the ones you and your family like.

Smaller inflatable slides are ready for little guests, but there is something for everyone: Larger rides like the Dropkick Slide are geared toward teens and adults. Don’t worry, though; a sense of childlike fun is still encouraged. In fact, if you don’t have enough time to hit all the “grownup” slides with kids in tow, you might consider making a return trip for Adult Night.

“This cool event literally was a hit last year for kids—and to our surprise adults, too. So this year we’re highlighting a night specifically aimed at the kids at heart and, of course, still welcome the whole family,” said Dave Dunne, the general manager of Salt River Fields.

Popular Arizona vendors and food

trucks will be offering food starting at $4, including cheeseburgers, barbecue, fry bread, pretzels and more; as well as cold beers.

Make sure everyone who wants to slide is prepared: Swimwear or swimmingcompatible clothing is required to ride all slides, and no jeans or denim are allowed. And don’t forget sunblock—for yourself and the kiddos.

Access to Slide Across America is $25 for general admission ($20 if you buy tickets before Sept. 15). A family four-pack of tickets is $80 ($60 in advance). Kids 2 and younger are free, and parking is free. Tickets are required for any entrance to the park.

Tumbleweed

Tumbleweed

Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

Tumbleweed

Tumbleweed

SLIDE

3 Animal Spotlighting , 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. Explore the places animals like to hide while learning about them then we’ll stop to howl and bark like coyotes. Wear glow sticks and come have fun on this one-mile meander on the Littleleaf and Goldmine trails. Please bring water, a flashlight, and wear closedtoed shoes. No pets, please. Meet at the main trailhead. San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Rd., Queen Creek. $6 park entry fee per vehicle. maricopa.gov/ parks/santan.

3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 21, 22, 28, 29 Arizona Railway Museum, noon to 4 p.m. Visit Chandler’s railway museum at Tumbleweed Park. The Arizona Railway Museum was founded and incorporated in 1983 as a nonprofit, educational and historical organization. The museum is dedicated to the railways of Arizona and the Southwest. The interest and fascination of railways and trains has no boundaries and so railways of all kinds are included in the scope of the Museum. Arizona Railway Museum, 330 E. Ryan Rd., Chandler. Display yard and building free; display cars $2 per person or $5 per family/group. For information, call Tim at 480-833-4353 or Bart Barton at 480-831-6520, azrymuseum.org.

3 Edible Bugs, 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Learn how to prepare chocolate-covered local bugs that are edible. Try some backcountry delicacies never thought to be desired. These crickets, worms, larvae and more are sure to get you excited about creepy crawlies. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $8 to $11 fee. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec.

3 Engineering a Homemade Flashlight , noon to 1:30 p.m. What do you do when the power grid goes down and you don’t have a flashlight? Learn some fun tricks to help out of a scary situation. This class is a great introduction for kids who want to know how electricity works. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $10 to $14 fee. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec.

3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30

ImprovMANIA , 7 p.m. Join ImprovMANIA every Friday and Saturday night for familyfriendly comedy shows. ImprovMANIA’s improv comedy shows are fast-paced, live comedy shows made up on the spot based on audience suggestions like the show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” Prepare for a night of laughter in downtown Chandler. ImprovMANIA, 250 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. $10 per person. 480-699-4598, improvmania.net.

5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 26, 28, 30

Tumbleweed Tots , 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. This indoor play area is designed for children five years of age and under to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $3 fee. 480782-2900, chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.

6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29

Tumbleweed Tumble Tots, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. This indoor play area is designed for children 5 years of age and under to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $3 registration fee. 480-782-2900, chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.

7, 21

Family Night at the TRC, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The first and third Wednesdays of the month enjoy a variety of different recreational activities and entertainment. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $5 registrations fee. For more information, contact Michael Fenzel, 480782-2908. chandleraz.gov/registration.

8, 15, 22, 29

Lego Club, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Come meet new friends and have fun building with Lego. Lego supplied, imagination required. No registration required. Lego Club is a Vertex program, where Chandler Public Library intersects with STEAM and makerspace. Downtown Library Copper Room, 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

8, 15, 22, 29

STEAM Club, 4-5 p.m. Come to the Chandler Library STEAM Club and have fun every Tuesday with science, technology, engineering, art and math. Play games, dig up dinos, weird science, fun crafts, Lego cars and more. Win prizes just for showing up! Ages 6-11. STEAM Club is a Vertex program, where Chandler Public Library intersects with STEAM and makerspace. Sunset Library Monsoon Room. 4930 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

9 City Lights Movie Night - Minions, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Minions are coming downtown and are looking for a new despicable leader! CityScape is turning into Minion-Central with a free movie night on Central Avenue, in the middle of downtown Phoenix. Come enjoy a free movie and other fun minion-themed activities. Come early to save a spot, run around the splash pad, and grab some dinner with your family. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find some minions of your own. Viewers are invited to bring their picnic blankets and chairs for a night of fun under the city lights on Central Avenue at CityScape. CityScape Phoenix, 1 E. Washington St., Phoenix. Free. cityscapephoenix.com/events.

9 Make-It! Take-it! Let’s Celebrate September! 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Coming to the library to check out books? This is a free drop-in program. There will be supplies provided for children to make and decorate crafts with a personal touch using fine motor skills. Children ages 2-5 should be accompanied by an adult. Children may leave when their project is complete. Supplies are limited. Downtown Library Copper Room North, 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

9 Messy Creation: Cosmic Space(crafts), 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Rocket ships, UFOs and bubbleships, oh my! Join in the fun as Boovy spacecrafts that can transport imaginations out of this world are made. Registration includes all-day museum admission for parent and child. Ages 2-5. i.d.e.a. museum, 150 W. Pepper Pl., Mesa. Members: $5; nonmembers: $13. 480-6444332, ideamuseum.org

10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25

Junie B. Jones in Not a Crook, Saturdays 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.; Sundays 1 p.m. Junie B. Jones is back on stage at Childsplay in a brand new adventure. This time, something terrible has happened. And it’s called—someone took Junie B.’s new black furry mittens. So when Junie B. finds a wonderful pen of many colors, she should be allowed to keep it, right? Because finder’s keepers, loser’s weepers. And guess what? With the help of her friends and a lot of laughter, Junie B. learns important lessons about being yourself and doing the right thing. Tempe Center for the Arts Theater, 700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe. Tickets $12 to $26. 480-921-5700, childsplayaz.org.

10

Meditation for Everyone, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Learn practical techniques of meditation that will help enhance quality of life. Learn to meditate in nature, in the middle of a busy day, at anytime, anywhere. Improve your concentration, health and peace of mind. No mat required. Only prerequisite is an open mind. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $3 to $5 fee. Ages 15 and up. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec.

14 Discovering Rocks and Minerals Pt. 1, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Arizona has some of the richest mines and mineral deposits found in the United States. Join us to learn more about these valuable and useful minerals and how they affect our everyday lives. All participants will leave with samples of some of the most common types found in Arizona. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $8 to $11 fee. Ages 8 and up. 480-7822890, chandleraz.gov/eec.

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Chandler Art Walk, 6-10 p.m. The Art Walk provides a fun, family atmosphere where you can browse the many different types of art available from our talented artists. It is a monthly event featuring local artists and musicians, and is a great opportunity to visit all of the unique establishments in downtown Chandler. Every third Friday, downtown Chandler welcomes more than 50 local artists to the historic square. All artists must go through a jury process to be accepted in the Art Walk. Only fine art and fine craft submissions will be considered. TechShop Chandler, 249 E. Chicago St., Chandler. Free. chandlerartwalk.com.

16 Friday Feeding Frenzy, 3:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Ever wondered what the live animals at the EEC eat for dinner? Ever seen a snake stalk its prey? Join the EEC staff on the third Friday of each month for a live animal feeding. Meet the animals in the nature center and learn about their diets. Stick around and watch the animals being fed. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2890, www. chandleraz.gov/eec.

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Discovering Rocks and Minerals Pt. 2, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Arizona is known for its ore mining in the Southwest, but other minerals are also found during the mining process. Join the hunt for quartz crystals at Date Creek, near Wickenburg. Transportation provided. Bring water, snacks, comfortable shoes and clothing. Children must be accompanied by an adult and everyone must register. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $28-$38 fee. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec.

17 Full Moon Nature Hike, 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Come and join the group for this onehour moon-lit hike of Veterans Oasis Park. Along the way participants will look and listen for the creatures that come out only after sunset as temperatures begin to drop. For added fun, bring a UV flashlight and discover how scorpions can glow in the dark. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $3 to $5 fee. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec.

17

Rockin’ Taco Street Festival, noon to 9 p.m. A food, music and cultural celebration, Rockin’ Taco Street Fest will feature creative tacos including fish, shrimp, chicken, carnitas, carne asada, veggie and more from a dozen local restaurants. Wash it all down with fresh fruit fresca, Mexican cerveza, tequila tasting, margaritas and more. Plus, save room for elote, churros, Mexican candies and palettas. Other event highlights include live

entertainment, Lucha Libre wrestling, taco eating competitions, a salsa competition, Chihuahua races, ballet folklorico dancing, niños play zone and a piñata party. Dr. AJ Chandler Park, 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Tickets $8 online; children 12 and under free. rockintacoaz.com.

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Welcome to the Sonoran Desert, 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. Welcome to the desert. This is a lush, diverse desert with lots of interesting residents. (And that is not just talking about the animals.) This 1-mile hike will focus on the common plants and animals living here and the adaptations that allow them to thrive. Meet Nikki at the flag pole. San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Rd., Queen Creek. $6 park entry fee per vehicle. maricopa.gov/parks/santan.

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All about Scorpions, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. On a warm summer night, scouring the desert floor, the scorpions of San Tan look for their next meal. But who are the “Big 3” of San Tan? Learn about the facts, myths and reputation behind these mysterious creatures during a short presentation in the Nature Center. Once the group has learned all about scorpions, everyone will be ready to meet them face to face on an exciting Scorpion Scavenger Hunt starting at 8 p.m. San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Rd., Queen Creek. $6 park entry fee per vehicle. maricopa.gov/parks/santan.

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Kids Club, powered by National Geographic Kids, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The Chandler Fashion Center Kids Club is a great opportunity for children to learn in a fun, interactive setting. Chandler Fashion Center teamed up with National Geographic Kids to create activities and games that focus on discovery through play. SanTan Village, at the splash pad near Dillard’s, 2218 E. Williams Field Rd., Gilbert. Free. 480-282-9500, shopsantanvillage.com/Events

24

Dragon and Butterfly Bash, 9 a.m. to noon. Celebrate these beautiful insects with us through guided nature walks, hands -on crafts, and presentations available for all ages. Walks will be held at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. and are approximately 20 minutes with easy terrain. This event is great for all ages and no registration required. Drop in at any time. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec.

24

Food Foraging: Native Plants, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Since people have been on Earth, there has been a relationship between humans and plants. Take a guided walk through Veterans Oasis Park and learn about the importance of native plants to culture, food, medicine, tradition, arts and crafts, and music. The terrain is easy and will introduce the study of ethnobotany. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $9 to $13. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec.

25

Heard Museum – Free Sumer Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Relax and take in the art on the fourth Sundays of June, July, August and September in the cool confines of the Heard as we celebrate Free Summer Sundays with free admission for everyone On Sept. 25, enjoy storyteller Michael Heralda at 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. in the Steele Auditorium. And Yolanda Hart Stevens will be inside the galleries demonstrating Quechan beadwork from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Don’t forget to try a make-and-take craft in the summer exhibit, “It’s Your Turn: A Home Studio.” Heard Museum, 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. Free. 602-252-8840, heard.org.

Explore. Rescue. Protect! The Octonauts hit the Comerica stage

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

For the first time in the United States, fans of “The Octonauts” can see their favorite stars from the beloved animated children’s TV series live on stage in a new interactive theater show.

With a cast of underwater explorers led by Capt. Barnacles, Lt. Kwazii and Medic Peso, “The Octonauts and the Deep Sea Volcano Adventure” brings the educational series to life on stage in a high-tech production featuring costumed characters and animated projections that provide a fully immersive experience for fans of all ages.

Jonathan Shank, executive producer at Red Light Management, who also

produced the hugely successful touring family shows “Peppa Pig Live” and “Fresh Beat Band,” talks about the new Octonauts show.

Q: Why did you decide to create an Octonauts live show?

JS: The Octonauts brand was continuing to grow and many families I spoke to love the show and the characters. There was a U.K. production which was very well done last year and it seemed like the right time to debut the production here in the Unites States. I love the educational value of the television show—we showcase that in the live

production.

Q: How much crossover is there from the TV show? Is this a brand new story?

JS: There is a ton of crossover and I think families are going to love the production. This is a brand new storyline and script. It’s a fun adventure and a great deep sea exploration for everyone on stage and in the audience.

Q: Kids normally see these characters on TV, so what is the reaction once they are live on stage?

JS: Seeing reactions on children’s and parents’ faces when the characters are on stage is one of the most amazing and rewarding parts about producing these shows. It brings the characters to life in a way the children never thought possible, stretching their imagination and bringing them directly into their favorite character’s world for the day.

“Octo-Cadets” and their families will assist the dynamic team of adventure heroes on their fast-paced, underwater adventure. The highly interactive experience includes sing alongs to musical numbers from the television show and new songs written just for the stage production.

Q: In addition to singalongs, what are some of the other interactive elements kids and families can expect?

JS: It’s a really fun show and everyone who attends is a cadet in training so the entire show is interactive! I don’t want to give away too much!

New “Octonauts” episodes are premiering throughout the year on Disney Channel and Disney Junior. Seasons one, two and three are also available on Netflix, and the first “Octonauts” 4-D movie adventure is coming this year.

IF YOU GO

What: Octonauts Live!

When: 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2

Where: Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix Cost: $28.50 to $38.50 Information: 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com

SUNSET SERIES AT VETERANS OASIS PARK

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20 | 6-7 p.m. at VETERANS OASIS PARK

Dusk Jockey, anyone? Chandler comes to life with live music in the park as the the Sonoran Sunset Series returns. Head over to Veterans Oasis Park with your blankets, chairs and coolers to enjoy a free concert under the stars. Exit 40 kicks off the concert series, delivering an exhilarating live performance that pulls from an extensive repertoire, including Country music and Rock & Roll classics from the 60s and 70s.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at TUMBLEWEED PARK

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28 | 5:30-8:30 p.m. at DOWNTOWN LIBRARY PLAZA

Gather your lil’ ghosts and goblins and trick-or-treat your way through the City of Chandler’s Halloween Spooktacular. Come dressed in your best costume and enjoy a family night of frightful fun! Activities include ghoulish games, haunted house, photo opportunities, arts and crafts, and costume contest prizes! Refreshments will be available for purchase throughout the evening.

The day to play your way! Enjoy health-minded family activities, fitness demonstrations, information booths, healthy food, a Kids Zone and plenty of live music and entertainment. Day of Play is a celebration of Chandler’s diversity and encourages neighbors, communities and families to have fun, build relationships and be active together. The Foam Fun Run returns this fall with new obstacles and requires paid registration.

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the Chandler City Council

Neighbors

Rockin’ Taco Street Fest

Food, Lucha Libre wrestling, salsa competition and piñata party top festival

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

The Rockin’ Taco Street Fest will feed every more folks this month as the 5-yearold party moves to Dr. AJ Chandler Park in downtown Chandler from noon to 9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17.

“The new location will allow us to expand and grow this fantastic festival into a cultural experience for the entire East Valley to enjoy,” said Landon Evans, event coordinator.

“We’ve added more of everything including taco vendors, bands, activities and fun.”

A food, music and cultural celebration, Rockin’ Taco Street Fest taco vendors include (so far): Bene Plates, BLK Live, Casa Rey’s, El Palacio Restaurant & Cantina of Chandler, Frites St, Garcia’s, Honey Bear’s, International Truck of Tacos, Jamburrito’s, Modern Margarita, Rock a Belly, SanTan Brewing Company and Traveling Monk.

To accompany all of those tacos, patrons will enjoy local craft beer, fresh fruit fresca, Mexican cerveza, tequila tastings, margaritas and more. Plus, save room for elote, churros, Mexican candies and kettle corn, The entertainment lineup includes:

Ballet Folklorico Dancers Noon to 12:30 p.m.

Good Rust 12:30-1:45 p.m.

The Deep Down 2-3 p.m.

Lucha Libre Wresting 3-8 p.m.

Black Moods 3:15-4:30 p.m.

New Frequency 4:45-5:45 p.m.

Tommy Price & the Stilettos 6-7:15 p.m.

Santana Tribute Band 7:30-9 p.m.

Other event highlights include: a taco-eating competition, a salsa competition, Chihuahua races, niños play zone and a piñata party.

Doors open at noon, general admission to the Rockin’ Taco Street Fest is $8 online during presale and $10 day of. Children 12 years old and under will be admitted for free with a paid adult. A limited number of VIP admission tickets are available online only, while supplies last. VIP Admission is $65 and includes six alcoholic beverages, unlimited soft drinks and water, catered food from El Palacio Restaurant & Cantina of Chandler, private restrooms, front stage access/view, private seating. VIP is a 21 and over entry only.

Tickets are available online now at RockinTacoAZ.com. Be sure to visit the fest social pages @RockinTacoAZ for more vendor announcements.

The sponsors are El Palacio Restaurant & Cantina of Chandler, SanTan Brewing Company, Downtown Chandler, Alta Steelyard, Corona light, Modelo Especial, Pacifico, Yelp, Bravo Tipping, Boost Mobile, Yellow Cab, BLK Live, Arizona Canine Center, Earnhart Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, Hubert’s Lemonade, Modern Margarita, Tequila Cabrito and Clasico de Centinela.

A percentage of the proceeds from the Rockin’ Taco Street Fest will benefit the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership (DCCP), a nonprofit corporation whose mission is to mobilize leadership and resources to advance the development of downtown Chandler as a regional destination for shopping, dining, living, culture, and the arts. It works on behalf of the Enhanced Municipal Services District, created in 2006, to provide enhanced marketing and promotion, safety and beautification of the downtown area beyond what is done by the City of Chandler. For more information, visit downtownchandler.org.

Crystal Card Project to raise money for My Sister’s Place

BY ALISON STANTON

The Crystal Card Project proves it is possible to take something that many people throw away, transform it into a useful thing of beauty and sell it to raise money for a worthy cause.

Charlene Petragallo recently cofounded the Crystal Card Project with Bobbie Reed and Kathy Skrei.

The Sun Lakes residents are collecting new and used greeting cards, which they—along with the rest of the Crystal Card Project volunteers—are repurposing into new cards that they will then sell.

The money they raise will be donated to My Sister’s Place, a domestic violence shelter in Chandler.

Earlier this year, Petragallo said she, Reed and Skrei received a Crystal Award

from the Sun Lakes community, an award that recognizes their commitment to volunteering.

“We thought we would piggyback off of the Crystal Award and start an ongoing project,” Petragallo said.

Petragallo said they were inspired to start the Crystal Card Project after her neighbor, Diana Berry, told her about a similar project in Illinois.

“My friend started her project all by herself about 15 years ago,” Berry said.

“Since then she has raised over $100,000 for the Women’s Crisis Center in Elgin (Illinois). I have been buying and sending her cards all along. Charlene and I kept saying ‘We should do that,’” Berry

Ahipoki Bowl introduces Hawaiian fusion cuisine to Chandler

BY MEGHANN FINN SEPULVEDA

Chandler residents have another delicious dining destination: Ahipoki Bowl.

The Hawaiian-inspired diced seafood concept arrived in Arizona earlier this year. Ahipoki Bowl, which originated in California in 2015, has six locations including one in Scottsdale. Managing partners Jason Jantzen and Mike Zimmerman expanded the concept with the launch of a second Arizona location in Chandler at 820 N. 54th St. on July 21.

A healthy alternative

Today, more people are seeking fast, healthy meals. Ahipoki Bowl offers a variety of fresh seafood, signature sauces and toppings, perfect for those looking for low-calorie, high-protein options.

“We call this guilt-free eating,” said Jantzen. “It makes a great light lunch or dinner but it’s also extremely filling.”

Cabaret’s Kit Kat Club opens at ASU Gammage page 59

What kind of vacation reader are you? page 68

Coconut’s Fish Café reels in the customers page 75

Rockin’ Taco Street Fest features tacos from a variety of restaurants including Bene Plates, BLK Live, Casa Rey’s, El Palacio Restaurant & Cantina of Chandler, Frites St, Garcia’s, Honey Bear’s, International Truck of Tacos, Jamburrito’s, Modern Margarita, Rock a Belly, SanTan Brewing Company and Traveling Monk.

All kinds of used greeting card will be repurposed into a new card by the Crystal Card Project members. Photo courtesy of IronOaks at Sun Lakes

said.

Petragallo said she was impressed by the amount of money that Berry’s friend raised by selling repurposed greeting cards.

“This was just amazing to me, and so I thought that if we took the power of a community like Sun Lakes and built awareness and pride in our project, every year we can write a huge check for My Sister’s Place,” Petragallo said.

Twice a month, Petragallo said, 12 to 15 women gather together to repurpose the donated cards. They cut off the front of the card and trim it down, then remove the inside message. They attach the pieces onto accent paper and card stock.

“It is not limited to women only— anyone can come. The cards are turning out really pretty,” Petragallo said.

Petragallo said people can drop off their old cards at any of the clubhouses located in Sun Lakes. She hopes to have additional drop-off locations in Chandler.

“We want people to get used to the idea of not tossing their cards but dropping them off,” she said. “We ask that people leave the inside message on the card and donate the whole card.”

The group is also looking for monetary

donations to offset the cost of making the cards, as well as envelopes, card stock and other crafting supplies.

“Every dollar that people donate, we can leverage into even more money for the crisis center,” she said.

Petragallo said that so far, the community has reacted positively to the Crystal Card Project.

“We have gotten a wonderful response from local card stores that have donated envelopes and the Intel Corporation has been very generous as well,” she said.

Berry said she really enjoys working with the other women on the Crystal Card Project.

“I have sort of gotten addicted to the process. It’s been fun to see if we can make the new card even prettier or more fun than the old one,” Berry said.

Petragallo said she hopes that everyone in the area will have a drawer full of birthday, sympathy and other greeting cards, all made by the members of the Crystal Card Project.

“We want people to be proud to give, and honored to receive a Crystal Card.”

For more information about the Crystal Card Project, or to make a donation or volunteer, contact Petragallo at 480-883-0782 or thecrystalcardproject@gmail.com.

Fresh, affordable seafood

When you arrive at Ahipoki Bowl, you’ll make your way up to the counter to place your order by first selecting a size: regular (two scoops) or large (three scoops).

From there, you’ll move on to choose your base of either white rice, brown rice, organic green salad or half and half. Then, you’ll pick between avocado, crab meat or onion as a side item before selecting your main dish: tuna, spicy tuna, salmon, albacore or yellowtail or fully cooked options like shrimp, octopus and scallops. Vegetarian meals are also available.

Next, you’ll pick from Ahipoki Bowl’s four unique sauces including house, house spicy, spicy creamy and sweet citrus.

“The sauce really adds a lot of flavor,” Jantzen said. “Our most popular is the house sauce.”

Finally, you’ll choose from toppings like masago, ginger, wasabi, fresh cucumber, seaweed salad, roasted seaweed, jicama, crab meat, daikon sprouts, sesame seeds, crispy onions, green onions or chili flakes.

House-brewed teas such as Thai tea, made with cream and sugar, unsweetened matcha green tea and a tropical tea blend consisting of mango and passion fruit, complement the bowl.

Ahipoki Bowl utilizes only the highest quality ingredients and fresh seafood, which are prepared daily.

The restaurant prides itself on being fast and affordable for everyone from business professionals to busy families, by offering regular bowls for $8.95 and large bowls for $10.75. An extra scoop of protein is an additional $1.75.

Plenty of seating is available for those who wish to dine in, but Jantzen says many customers take their meal to go.

Future

plans

The Chandler location will soon be adding an outdoor patio and a drive thru option for customers. The dining establishment will also serve alcohol in the coming months.

In the spring, a third Arizona Ahipoki Bowl location in Tempe near Rural and University is expected to open, with more locations on the horizon.

“We are looking at four or five more locations in Arizona based on the popularity of the concept,” Jantzen said. “Our success has exceeded well beyond our expectations.”

Ahipoki Bowl

820 N. 54th St., Chandler 85226

ahipokibowl.com

Left to right: Diana Berry, Dot Mitchell and Sue Saylor transform old greeting cards into beautiful new cards, which will be sold to raise money for My Sister’s Place in Chandler. Photo courtesy of IronOaks at Sun Lakes CARD from page 45

AHIPOKI from page 45

These dishes incorporate ahi tuna, salmon, spicy tuna, masago, crab salad, cucumber, daikon, sprouts and sesame seeds on a bed of rice.

The Chandler location is the second Ahipoki Bowl in the Valley. The first opened in south Scottsdale.

Fitness, beauty programs abound at Ocotillo Health Club & Spa this month

Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa continues to bring luxury and health to families this fall with fitness and training programs and beauty specials.

For Yogis trying to take their commitments to an new level of fun, the Ocotillo Village is hosting a Buti Glow Party from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 9. The club is providing electronic dance music courtesy of a DJ, and glow paint ($15 for members and $20 for nonmembers). There will be an hour long asana session with an emphasis on the Vinyasa Flow of Buti Yoga. It will focus on kundalini spiral energy and core engagements in the Mindful Movement Studio. Once the mats are rolled up, be sure to stick around for a post-yoga social event featuring wine and chocolates.

Ocotillo Village offers something for yoga lovers who want to ditch the mat and try something unique. Stand Up Paddle Board Yoga is a 60-minute class at the Ocotillo Pool that does not require any prior paddle boarding experience. The class will be held from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 18, for $40 for members and $50 for nonmembers.

For those looking to cultivate their love for yoga, the Yoga Alignment Workshop from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, serves as a stepping stone to do so. The cost is $35 for members, $45 for nonmembers. This class focuses on seated and standing yoga postures and explores the benefits of safely aligning the body in the Mind Body Studio.

Those who prefer to hit the trail instead of the mat will enjoy TEAMVillage’s multipurpose training sessions. This Multisport team strives to get its members more active and ready to take on new challenges in a fun and interactive way, while developing long-lasting friendships. This team concentrates on swimming, cycling and running in indoor and outdoor settings.

TEAMVillage is led by coach Klas Kuntze and is geared for entry-level multisport athletes and experienced triathletes. He brings in guest speakers, and discusses correct weight training, nutrition plans and running and cycling techniques. TEAMVillage has started an eight-week swim program focusing on swim stroke, efficient body position, overcoming fear and anxiety, and

open water swimming techniques. The class is set for 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Sept. 28. Drop-in classes are $30 and a minimum of five swimmers is required.

For kids, Village offers an improved Ocotillo Village Jr. basketball program for aspiring athletes. This new training program adds to the existing private coaching program with one-on-one instruction by Ocotillo Village basketball pro Charles Gosa. The additional Reach Basketball Training Academy hosts group format coaching for girls and boys in kindergarten through sixth grade through Dec. 15. Academy practices are 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, and there is a three-month commitment minimum so that they can properly track results.

In addition to its extensive list of fitness workshops, the Village provides a multitude of beauty services meant to keep guests looking and feeling their best.

Health and beauty maintenance can be an expensive and a timely upkeep, but the Ocotillo Village Spa is offering three spa specials in September and October to help cut the costs.

For guests looking to tighten, firm and brighten their skin, the Spa at the Village is offering microneedling treatments accompanied with an Organic Eminence Eight Greens Serum at $120 per 30-minute treatment (usually offered at $150/ treatment). Spa-goers will also receive 20% off any Eminence Eight Greens retail products.

The Spa at the Village is promoting its Tropical Smoothie Pedicure. This pedicure includes paraffin, sugar scrub and an extended foot massage. Though regularly offered at $65 per treatment, this package is offered at $50 through September and October.

Embrace that inner retro pinup girl with the Ocotillo Village Spa’s Pincurls and Poppiottes blow dry styles. Each blow dry is $45 (regularly $60) and recommended for shoulder length or longer hair.

The Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa is located at 4200 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler.

For more information about events and fitness classes visit villageclubs.com or call 480-656-0045. Those looking to contact the spa directly can call 480-579-2940.

Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa is offering a Buti Glow Party on Sept. 9.

TEAM Village is led by coach Klas Kuntze and is geared toward entry-level, multisport athletes and experienced triathletes.

The Studio Academy of Beauty raises $2K to benefit Cut It Out

Cathy Koluch, president and founder of the Studio Academy of Beauty, presented Brigid Cox with a $2,000 check to support Cut It Out: Salons Against Domestic Abuse.

Cut It Out: Salons Against Domestic Abuse is dedicated to mobilizing salon professionals and others to fight the epidemic of domestic abuse in communities across the United States. It does so by building awareness, and training salon professionals to recognize warning signs and safely refer clients, colleagues, friends and family to local resources.

An American Association of Cosmetology Schools member school, The Studio Academy of Beauty has three campuses in the Valley—Phoenix, Chandler and Tolleson.

Students were trained in the Cut It Out program and were driven to do something to help get the word out.

The Phoenix and Tolleson campuses each produced a fashion show giving the students the opportunity to express their talent in hair, makeup and costume design.

Tickets were $5 to $10 and several beauty packages were raffled.

Koluch challenged other American Association of Cosmetology Schools to try to beat her gift.

“Domestic abuse affects our students and their families and also can have an effect on our completion rate,” Koluch said. “It is a real issue today and we have a responsibility to educate our students. Cut It Out is a great way to do that.”

Put yourself first at free yoga class

A free yoga class with emphasis on caregivers is being offered by the Tao Healing Center, noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, at 1840 W. Chandler Blvd., No. D7, in Chandler. The class will explain the importance of putting yourself first in order to stay strong for others. Info: www.taohealingcenters.org or 480-786-6000.

Meet a firefighter at the Ed Robson Library during ‘awesome’ program

Join the folks at the Ed Robson Library for the following programs:

10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 10: Awesome Occupations: Meet a Firefighter

Ever wonder about the excitement and danger that goes into being a firefighter? What kind of training does a firefighter have to prepare for this vital job? The “Awesome Occupations” series continues with a firefighting crew from the Sun Lakes Fire Department. As a bonus, kids can explore a real fire truck. The program is geared for kids ages 5 to 12, but all are welcome with a caregiver. On the day of the program, visit the library front desk for a free ticket. Park in the church parking lot next to the library.

10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13: Storytime for Kids

Kids can participate in a fun-filled 30-minute program with stories and takeaway coloring pages. There’s a new

theme each month. Stories are geared toward children ages 3 and older, but all are welcome with their caregiver.

1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 15, PHXART Presents A Civic Masterwork: The National Mall

Phoenix Art Museum Docents speak about “A Civic Masterwork: The National Mall, Washington, D.C.” Docent Beth Goodwin will describe how visionaries created an iconic landscape unlike any other in the world. On the day of the program, come by the library customer service desk for a free ticket, limit two per person. Park in the church parking lot next to the library. Sponsored by the Friends of the Ed Robson Library.

The Ed Robson Library is located at 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. For more information, call 602-652-3000 or go to mcldaz.org. Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/mcldro.

Style School will focus on the fall

Tabitha Dumas, a certified image consultant, is offering a one-day head to toe makeover with a special focus on

fall colors and trends, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24. Tickets are $49. Info: 602349-1129 or tabithadumas.com/events.

Chandler Museum and The Ostrich host third Trivia Night

The Chandler Museum and The Ostrich Bar are hosting Trivia Night, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 20, at The Ostrich, located in the basement of Crust, near the San Marcos Golf Resort, at 10 N. San Marcos Pl., in downtown Chandler. The trivia night is hosted by Marshall Shore, who calls himself “Arizona’s Hip Historian.”

the area’s citrus history.

The third in a series of trivia nights, attendees will learn about tiki kitsch of the past while enjoying Tiki Tuesday. There will be stories about Chandler as a travel destination for the stars, the city’s place on Route 66 and a bit about

“This is a fantastic event and we are so glad to have the pleasure to continue partnering with The Ostrich and Marshall Shore,” said Jody Crago, the Chandler Museum’s administrator. “People can learn more about the place where they live while going out and having a good time with friends.”

“Our first two events were a great

success,” added Mike Merendino, owner of The Ostrich and Crust. “We think this is going to be one of the best,” noting that mixologist Brandon Casey will be making cocktails. Reservations are required for teams of four to six. Info: For more information or to make reservations, go to chandlermuseum.org or 480-917-4903.

• Sofas and sectional options made to order or take home immediately

• Great selections of quality dining sets • Custom furniture for every room, without custom prices

• Incredible, locally made mattresses at amazing prices

• Most of our products are proudly made in the USA

Marshall Shore, Arizona’s historian is hosting Trivia Night, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 20, at The Ostrich, located in the basement of Crust.

Winners of a previous Trivia Night celebrate their success.

SanTan Brewing launches IPA featuring Arizona grown grapefruit juice

The SanTan Brewing Company is launching a new beer, MoonJuice Galactic Grapefruit IPA, a spinoff of SanTan’s MoonJuice IPA that went into mass production in October 2015.

The new fruity version is crafted with Galaxy and Nelson-Sauvin hops from the southern hemisphere. It contains an added splash of Arizona grown grapefruit juice from Sun Orchard in Tempe.

“Last year we launched a wide release of our highly acclaimed MoonJuice Galactic IPA with much success,” said Anthony Canecchia, SanTan Brewing Company’s founder and brewmaster. “Now, we’re launching a grapefruit version of the same deliciously crisp and refreshing IPA, perfect for enjoying in our dry Arizona climate.”

SanTan beers have won numerous national and statewide awards, including a silver award at the World Beer Cup in 2016 and two medals at the U.S. Open Beer Championship. SanTan Brewing also took home a silver medal at the 2011 Great American Beer Festival.

Info: www.SanTanBeerFinder.com.

Octoberfest is Oct. 1

SanTan Brewing is also holding its ninth annual Oktoberfest, 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, in Dr. AJ Chandler Park across from SanTan Brewing at 3 S. Arizona Pl., Chandler. Entertainment includes Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers, Reel Big Fish and other local acts.

Professionally produced by HDE Agency and presented by Bashas’, this year’s event will highlight beer games, Von Hanson’s brat eating contest, and family

zone, in celebration of SanTan Brewing’s ninth anniversary.

The event will feature a Bavarian-style beer garden where SanTan will serve its Oktoberfest lager, a traditional German lager boasting a toasty, strong, malt profile with a clean and crisp lager flavor. SanTan will also pour its core beers and other seasonal offerings.

Other highlights include a beer pong

tournament, bag toss, the buddy carry, stein holding, keg stacking and tricycle races.

Pre-sale tickets are $10 at all Bashas’ locations. Day of admission tickets are $15. Children 12 and younger are admitted for free with a paid adult. VIP tickets are available for $75 online, with limited availability. VIP admission is for patrons 21 and over and includes catered food from SanTan Brewing, six beers,

private seating area, private restrooms and exclusive stage viewing access. Info: santanoktoberfest.com.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit St. Joseph the Worker, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting the homeless, low income and other disadvantaged individuals in its efforts to become self-sufficient through quality employment.

ONLY 5 HOMES REMAINING!

Upscale, intimate community of only 15 homes on villa sized lots, located in the highly sought after Ocotillo area of Chandler Square footage range from 1,970 – 2,300 Prices from $334,700. Extremely Energy Efficient

The new fruity beer MoonJuice Galactic Grapefruit IPA is a spinoff of SanTan Brewing Company’s MoonJuice IPA.

Clairvoyant-medium will share three tips for healing

Nita Lapinski will introduce her new book, “Habits That Heal - Transcending Fear and Anxiety,” 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 10, at the Downtown Chandler Public Library, 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. The parking lot is just south of the building.

Lapinski will lead participants through at least one exercise from the book and teach three steps to stop an anxiety

attack. A clairvoyant-medium and certified hypnotherapist, she has studied integrative breath work and bioenergy. In addition to “Habits that Heal,” she is author of “The Knowing – Awake in the Dark” and “Meditation Handbook for Beginners.” Info: 480-782-2800, infodesk@ chandleraz.gov or www.chandlerlibrary.org.

introduced five new bagel flavors—spinach, spinach

Chompie’s introduces five new bagel favors and a low-carb protein bar

Chompie’s has introduced five new bagel flavors—spinach, spinach everything, whole wheat everything, salted pretzel and banana chocolate chip swirl. Known for its New York-style bagels, Chompie’s is also offering a new protein bar, an on-the-go variation of their low-carb bread.

The two spinach bagels take Chompie’s original plain bagel, add finely ground spinach and result in an earthy flavor that complements sandwiches or a cream cheese spread. The pretzel bagels are a nod to the upcoming Oktoberfest season, boiled in a pretzel-like solution of baking soda and water and then topped with a

thick, kosher pretzel salt.

The new protein bar looks like a mini bread loaf and starts with the same carbs, with flax seeds, sunflower seeds, cranberries and sliced almonds. The bar has 30 grams of protein and 6 net grams of carbohydrates.

A New York-style delicatessen, restaurant, bagel factory, bakery and caterer, Chompie’s has served the Valley since 1979 with breakfast all day, lunch and dinner seven days a week. It now has five locations, in Scottsdale, Tempe, Phoenix Valley, Chandler and Glendale. Info: www.chompies.com or facebook. com/Chompiesdeli.

Nita Lapinski will lead participants through at least one exercise from the book and teach three steps to stop an anxiety attack.

Chompie’s has

everything, whole wheat everything, salted pretzel and banana chocolate chip swirl.

Chandler residents win AJ’s iced tea selfie contest

Three Chandler residents are among five Arizona residents named winners of AJ’s Fine Foods’ “Tea for 2” contest. They entered the contest on Instagram by sharing a selfie or video enjoying their favorite AJ’s iced tea. There were more than 425 entries. Chandler residents who won are Ashley Hill (@thejeepgirls), with her top choice of prickly pear iced tea, Kim Matura (@ kimerellababy), with her top choice of passion fruit iced tea, and Emma Rose Mester (@emmarose1196), with her top

choice of strawberry guava iced tea. Their prize was a “Tea for 2 Black Card,” valid for two free iced teas a day through Sept. 5 and a special prize pack, including a large AJ’s-branded iced tea cup and an AJ’s gift card.

AJ’s iced tea flavors range from traditional black and green teas to sweeter black passion fruit and prickly pear. AJ’s also offers two caffeine-free iced tea flavors, including a decaf apricot and decaf pomegranate. Info: ajsfinefoods.com.

Fall cocktails at The Ostrich feature the Butcher, Baker and Candlestick Maker

The Ostrich, a neighborhood craft cocktail lounge, has a new lineup of cocktails called The Butcher, The Baker and The Candlestick Maker. Crafted by Brandon Casey and his team, the cocktails have ingredients such as figgy pudding bitters, yellow chartreuse, dessert blossom honey syrup and dehydrated mulling spices. The cocktails are available now.

“We’ve married sweet, smoke, spice and citric to create a collection of drinks that are perfect for fall,” said Casey, the Ostrich’s beverage director and mixologist.

The Ostrich’s Butcher, Baker and Candlestick Maker are drinks inspired by the nursery rhyme “rub-a-dub-dub,” published in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The rhyme depicts three

respectable townsfolk heading out of town to the fair, to do something dubious. Returning home, a bath is most certainly in order. The Ostrich promises a touch of theatrical entertainment as these drinks are being prepared.

“Drawing inspiration from classic cocktails and breathing autumn life into them, these redesigned classics pay homage to their roots while embracing new and local ingredients,” Casey said. “The new cocktail menu features spirits from all over the world paired with local ingredients to help both reach their ultimate potential.”

The Ostrich is open Tuesday-Saturday at 6 p.m. at 10 N. San Marcos Pl., Chandler. Info: crustrestaurants.com/ostrich or facebook.com/theostrichbar.

Celebrate the end of summer at the Summer End’s Margarita Mojito Festival

The first Summer End’s Margarita Mojito Festival is being held noon to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, at Rawhide Western Town, 5700 W. North Loop Rd., Chandler.

Proceeds will benefit the Calling all Angels Foundation that works with single parents going through cancer and the debilitating effects of chemotherapy and radiation.

The festival will offer unlimited

tastings of craft margaritas, mojitos, microbrew and Mexican beers, all in combination with Copper Creek Cocktails and Sangria. There will also be entertainment and artisan vendors as well as dining and a food truck expo. Cooling stations, water games and water rides will also be offered.

Tickets are $5 at the gate. Info: margaritamojitofestival.com.

Fall Landscaping Spruce-Ups

▪

Emma Rose Mester is one of three Chandler residents named winner of AJ’s Fine Foods’ “Tea for 2” contest.

Cigna Medical Group’s Walking Challenge continues Event kicks off at Chandler Fashion Center

The community is invited to start the day off on the right foot and come to Cigna Medical Group’s Walking Challenge free kick-off event from 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, at Chandler Fashion Center.

Cigna Medical Group is traveling to a different Macerich shopping center each month to encourage people around the Valley to walk the mall for a fun way to stay active and cool. The free event will offer healthy refreshments, fun giveaways and health information. Distance markers will be placed throughout the mall so participants can track how far they have walked.

The walk will start on the lower level

near Sears.

For more information, visit CignaMedicalGroup.com/ walkingchallenge.

Cigna Medical Group’s Walking Challenge upcoming locations include:

7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 7, Scottsdale Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale

7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 4, Desert Sky Mall, 7611 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix

7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 2, Superstition Springs Center, 6555 E. Southern Ave., Mesa

7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 5, Paradise Valley Mall, 4568 E. Cactus Rd. Phoenix.

Phoenix Premium Outlets host Labor

Day sales

Phoenix Premium Outlets is celebrating Labor Day with deals through Monday, Sept. 5. Retailers like BCBGMAXAZRIA, Cole Haan, Movado Company Store, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH and Sunglass Hut, will offer additional savings on top of their outlet prices of 25% to 65% off.

During the sale weekend, Phoenix Premium Outlets will host its last Summer Concert Series of the season on Saturday from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. outside of the Food Court. Guests will enjoy Continental Jade on Saturday, Sept. 3. Additionally, local food trucks will be onsite from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. giving guests extra dining options.

The food trucks available on Saturday, Sept. 3, are DeMarco’s Italian Ice and

Creams, Kick’s Frozen Yogurt and Oasis Gourmet Catering.

The center will also have extended hours providing shoppers more time to enjoy additional savings. For even more exclusive offers and savings, join our VIP Shopper Club at premiumoutlets.com/ vip or visit Simon Guest Services for additional details.

Hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday.

Phoenix Premium Outlets is located at 4976 Premium Outlets Way, Chandler. For more information or a list of in store promotions, visit premiumoutlets.com/ phoenix/ or call 480-639-1766.

Outside the Lines adult

coloring group expands

The Chandler Public Library’s Outside the Lines adult coloring group is expanding to twice a month. Join the group the first and third Wednesdays of every month from 10 a.m. to noon and enjoy the latest stressbusting trend for grown-ups. Connect with others and have fun with this timeless activity of coloring. The library provides coffee, coloring pages and colored pencils but feel free to bring your own. The program is free.

The Chandler Public Library’s Downtown Branch is located at 22 S. Delaware St. The events are 10 a.m. to noon Wednesdays Sept. 7 and Sept. 21.

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

Celebrate Greece with church’s Greek Festival

St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church will be transformed into a mini Greek village when “A Taste of Greece” returns Friday, Sept. 30, to Sunday, Oct. 2.

“A Taste of Greece” offers a weekend celebration with traditional Greek foods, imports, music and costumed folk dancing.

All proceeds benefit St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church and related philanthropic activities and community charities. The church is a nonprofit organization.

Admission is $3; kids younger than 12 are free. A buy one get one free admission coupon is available at atasteofgreeceaz.com.

Parking is free at Seton High School, 1150 N. Dobson Rd., Chandler, from which a shuttle bus will take patrons. Handicap parking is available on the church grounds.

“We’re proud to carry on a tradition from a homeland rich with unique tastes and culture,” said spokesman Sam Kladis. “A Taste of Greece represents all that the Greek culture has to offer. You don’t have to be Greek to enjoy the Greek food festival. There’s something here for everyone. You can experience the flavors of Greece right in Chandler.”

For most, the highlight of the threeday festival is the food. Weeks prior to the event, several dozen church volunteers work to hand-prepare dishes such as Dolmathes (grapevine leaves stuffed with ground beef, seasoned rice and herbs), Spanakopita (thin filo

dough filled with spinach and cheeses) and Pastichio (Greek lasagna, baked macaroni and ground beef covered in béchamel sauce). Homemade pastries will be available like Baklava (filo dough filled with nuts and spices), Kourabiedes (a rich, shortbread-like cookies covered with powdered sugar) and Loukoumathes

(pastry puffs sweetened with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon).

Greek music will fill the air, and performances by Greek Folk Dancers in authentic costumes promise to add to the atmosphere. For festival-goers who like to get involved there will be dance workshops. Shoppers will enjoy the

UPGRADE TO A SMART

“agora” marketplace offering arts and crafts, Greek imports, jewelry, CDs, books and icons.

Hours are 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct 1, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2.

The church is located at 2716 N. Dobson Rd., Chandler.

“A Taste of Greece” dancers perform for the crowd.

Students visit with police

Elementary school students from the Chandler Unified School District visited with the Chandler Police Department from the officers, detectives and chief themselves. Students had the opportunity to ask questions and learn about the holding facilities. Officer Robin Atwood quizzed the students on the mission statement of the Chandler Police Department.

Groups of 30 students rotated through different areas of the city. This was the first group to visit.

Chief Sean Duggan welcomed the students to the Chandler Police Department.

Students felt right at home in the main station.

Detective John Somerville shows off the features of a patrol vehicle.

Officer Chip Sykes takes a photo with a student in the driver’s seat.

The tour included visits to the main station holding facility.

Officer Robin Atwood quizzed the students on the mission statement of the Chandler Police Department.

Approximately 120 Santan Stormers toured the department.

Students had a question and answer session with crime prevention officers..

Cabaret’s Kit Kat Club opens at ASU Gammage

BY ROBBIE PETERSON AND JENNIFER HAALAND

The Kit Kat Club arrives on the ASU Gammage stage Sept. 13, and once again we’re all invited to come to the “Cabaret”—the opening show of the theater’s Broadway Across America 2016-17 season.

Andrea Goss will play the fishnetsporting, bowler-wearing chanteuse Sally Bowles, and there’s no question how well she knows the part. She started as a member of the ensemble and an understudy for Sally on Broadway. She eventually backed up Michelle Williams, Emma Stone and Sienna Miller.

And now the role is all hers.

Some have said she’s the best throwback to Liza Minnelli since the movie version (1972). Goss disagrees, and said her performance is not based on any previous rendition.

“Liza Minnelli was an important Sally, there’s no doubt about that,” Goss said. “But it would be a disservice to replicate a previous interpretation. We want to tell the story the best we can now.”

This production and its iteration of the story, which also features “Queer as Folk” star Randy Harrison as the jaded Emcee, centers on the seedy stars of the world’s most famous fictional dive bar, the Kit Kat Club in Berlin, as they naughtily dance beneath the Nazi radar in 1931 Berlin, on the brink of World War II.

The original debuted in Boston in 1966, and celebrated a landmark 50year anniversary this year. It was, not surprisingly, a sensation then, with audiences unaccustomed to shows mixing burlesque call girls with topics such as Nazis, alcoholism and abortion.

Also touring with the national production, and a true “Cabaret” aficionado, is Alison Ewing. She points to the differences in this version of the classic.

“This production is a lot different than the glitzy Liza Minnelli movie,” said Ewing, who has bounced among several tawdry roles in the nightclub ensemble.

“You’ll see the definitive Tony

Award-winning revival ... it’s more seedy and edgier. It feels current, too, because the show is politically raw. It emphasizes the underlying stress of the political climate,” adds Ewing.

“It’s such a powerful story,” agreed Goss. “The movie diverted away from the novel, but this production is true to that 1920s/early 1930s setting, and much more realistic.

“And, yes, many have remarked that it mirrors things happening in the world now, and in the U.S., too. People will draw their own conclusions about all

Randy Harrison as the Emcee and the 2016 National Touring cast of Roundabout Theatre Company’s “Cabaret,” which comes to ASU Gammage in Tempe on Sept. 16. Photos by Joan Marcus.

Sarah Bishop as Helga, Andrea Goss as Sally Bowles and Alison Ewing as Fritzie in the 2016 National Tour of Roundabout Theatre Company’s “Cabaret.”

Shannon Cochran as Fräulein Schneider, Mark Nelson as Herr Schultz, Alison Ewing (above) as Fräulein Kost and Randy Harrison (background) as the Emcee in the 2016 National Touring production of Roundabout Theatre Company’s “Cabaret.”

see CABARET page 60

that, whether seeing it in a new light or for the first time.”

Above all it is a revival, yet the same show and so much fun, both funny and witty. The biggest difference is in the music,” Goss adds.

“The ensemble is the band, she said. “They sing, they dance, they act.”

But there’s more. Ewing sees this “Cabaret” as a “stripped-down,” streamlined version. Every scantily clad Kit Kat Club member is also playing an instrument.

“We are the orchestra. There is no pit,” explains Ewing, who is an accordion player among the strings, brass and woodwinds. “You don’t just hear the music, you see it. You’re a part of the nightclub action.”

In this immersive production, Ewing plays Fraulein Koft, the oldest dancer at the club and the comic relief in the show. As a younger singer-dancer, she played Lulu in the 1998 National Tour and on Broadway in 2000. In between, her Iowa high school French teacher helped prep her for the ensemble role she played in the Paris production.

“Koft is a fun, meaty role. My character is a survivor,” Ewing said, laughing. And she assures the Gammage audience that the most loved parts of the Broadway sizzler are intact, including favorite numbers like “Maybe This Time” and “Life is a Cabaret.”

But beneath that familiarity, she said, the excited frenzy of anticipation disguises a gnawing bit of foreboding. It’s what “Cabaret” does best, and why it’s stood the test of time.

Single-ticket sales are now available for “Cabaret,” which kicks off the ASU Gammage 2016-17 season Sept. 13 and runs through Sept. 18. Single tickets are also now available for the new

production of “The Sound of Music,” coming to ASU Gammage Oct. 18 to Oct. 23. Both are available to the public at ticketmaster.com and asugammage.com.

Season subscriptions for 2016-17

are also still available. Purchase of the package guarantees a place in line for the 2017-18 Broadway season, which will include the Tempe engagement of “Hamilton.”

Shannon Cochran as Fräulein Schneider and Mark Nelson as Herr Schultz in the 2016 National Touring production of Roundabout Theatre Company’s “Cabaret.” Photo by Joan Marcus.

Fall performing-arts lineup opens with Steve Martin’s mirthful play

The fall performing arts season at Chandler-Gilbert Community College kicks off with Steve Martin’s play, “Picasso at the Lapin Agile,” Thursday, Oct 13, through Saturday, Oct. 15.

The full-length comedy features Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso at a bar in France in 1904, debating over the value of genius and talent while interacting with a host of other characters.

The season continues Nov. 17-19 with the Off-Broadway hit, “Circle of Mirror Transformation,” and Dec. 1-3 with Charles Dickens’ holiday classic, “A Christmas Carol.”

Other performances in the fall are a variety of student concerts and dance

showcases, including the fall band concert Thursday, Oct. 27, and the Nov. 18-19 faculty dance choreographed showcase “Explorations.” There will also be Comedy Improv shows, Friday, Sept. 23 and Friday, Nov. 4, along with Jazz Night, Thursday, Nov. 3.

Highlighting the Christmas season is the Winter Woods Percussion Concert, Dec. 9, followed by the Dec. 9-10 dance showcase, “In Motion.”

Tickets can be purchased online or at the college box office located on the Pecos Campus, which opens one hour before show time. Info: cgc.maricopa. edu/performingarts or 480-732-7343.

Theater Works opens series with British farce ‘Noises Off’

Theater Works is performing Michael Frayn’s “Noises Off,” Friday, Oct. 7, to Sunday, Oct. 23, in the Gyder Theater at the Peoria Center for the Performing Arts, 8355 W. Peoria Ave., Peoria. The play within a play is about an overly ambitious director and his troupe of journeyman actors and crew putting together a silly sex comedy.

Theater Works is a nonprofit organization that provides opportunities for children, patrons and artists to experience theater that inspires, enriches and enlightens through performing arts. Tickets are $38, with discounts for seniors, students and groups. Info: theaterworks.org and 623-815-7930.

Chandler-Gilbert Community College is kicking off its fall performing-arts season of concerts, plays and dances with Steve Martin’s “Picasso at the Lapin Agile.”

The Future is Now

Demi Lovato and Nick Jonas bring close friendship to Talking Stick Resort Arena stage

BY MEGAN MARPLES

Demi Lovato and Nick Jonas have grown personally and professionally since their days on “Camp Rock.” But appearing together in the Disney movie meant much more than just hanging out.

“Not only was it a great friendship with lots of differences in our personality, but also on creative and artistic levels, I think we were a big support,” Jonas said.

The two are still supporting each other, as this summer they’re touring as part of the “Future Now” jaunt which comes to Talking Stick Resort Arena at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16. While touring may sound glamorous, Lovato admits that it isn’t always that way. Moments of loneliness are quelled by Jonas’ company.

“Getting homesick is rough but that’s why I’m excited to tour with Nick because it’s going to be amazing having one of your best friends on the road with you whenever you do get homesick or you’re having a rough time.” she said.

For Jonas, touring has become awkward as well. A few years ago, he broke free from the Jonas Brothers to launch what would be a very successful solo career. Touring without them has been a stumbling block.

“I’m so accustomed to traveling with family and having that be my version of touring,” said Jonas, who will appear in the upcoming James Franco-produced film “GOAT.” “Thankfully, by touring with Demi, we share a management team who are some of our closest friends and it makes

the environment on tour feel less lonely than it probably would.”

Mission statement

Lovato said this tour is her way of showing fans that she’s a stronger person after stints in rehab to help with eating disorders, depression and drug abuse. While in treatment, she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and it is something with which she still struggles.

“I wanted to prove to people that I wasn’t just a stereotypical Hollywood starlet that goes to rehab and falls back into the trap of the things that got her there,” Lovato said. “I wanted to make sure that the music I made was great and that I was passionate about the music that I put out.”

Lovato’s latest album, “Confident,” reflects that and showcases her ability to sing about what matters to her.

“I’m going to make the music that I really want to make,” she said. “I’m going to say the things that I’m terrified to say in my music, but that’s honest and the honesty in my new music is what I’m really proud about.”

Jonas is celebrating his new music as well, as he just released “Last Year was Complicated.”

“I see every challenge as an opportunity to pivot and find something, a new way of showing people what you’re all about and giving them some more depth,” he said. “Demi pushed me to be more vulnerable in my music with this next record and encouraged me to really open up about

some things that happened in my life.”

Both artists are excited about performing together, but want to bypass the usual pomp and circumstance of tour productions.

“I think the focus is less on big gags and production elements because for Demi and I, that has less importance,” Jonas said. “It’s about building content that is unique and speaks to what we’ve gone through in our lives and isn’t just straight down the middle.”

Lovato and Jonas also became business partners and founded Safehouse Records last year. They have been learning how to balance their business and personal relationships.

“I think that Demi and I are the first to say that we still have a lot of growing to do still and that when it comes to our business as it relates to our friendship, that’s something you have to take day by day,” Jonas said.

With all of the difficulties that a tour production brings, Lovato and Jonas are staying grounded and letting their music take center stage.

“Our friendship has been full of great moments that were challenging, but I think at the end of the day it’s a lot of love and a lot of care and very, very genuine,” Jonas said.

IF YOU GO

What: Demi Lovato and Nick Jonas w/Mike Posner

When: 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16

Where: Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix Cost: $29.95 to $89.95

Information: 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com

Demi Lovato

The Valley’s burgeoning performing arts embark on a new season

BY KENNETH LAFAVE

The performing arts in the Valley of the Sun have grown up. Where 20 years ago a single weekend might offer one possibility, or two, today’s typical weekend of live music, theater and dance is four-to-five times that in quantity with a parallel growth in quality.

As a new season of performing arts launches, here is a guide to the major players throughout the Valley. The list includes producers (groups that put concerts and shows together, such as the

Phoenix Symphony and Ballet Arizona) and presenters (the local arts centers that bring in outside acts).

PRODUCERS

Phoenix Symphony plays the classics, pops and tributes to classic rock in a 2016-17 season that celebrates Beethoven, Brahms…and Bowie. Popular young music director Tito Munoz is at his professional peak, leading concerts known for their energy and sonic luster. Most take place

at Phoenix Symphony Hall in downtown Phoenix, but the Mesa Arts Center, the Scottsdale Center for the Arts and the Musical Instrument Museum are among its occasional venues. The season opens Sept. 16 to Sept. 18 with Munoz conducting Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony. “The Music of David Bowie” Dec. 30 and a tribute to film composer John Williams, May 12 to May 14, take the orchestra to non-classical destinations. Website: phoenixsymphony.org.

On the eve of its 50th anniversary season, Arizona Theatre Company came off a near-shutdown, escaping financial collapse when last-minute heroes came up with $2 million. Talk about drama! The company will be hard pressed to match that onstage, but it will give it a try Oct. 6 to Oct. 23 with “King Charles III,” a speculative play about what might happen when Prince Charles succeeds Queen Elizabeth II. The classic musical “Fiddler on the Roof” (Jan. 6 to Jan. 29) promises to be a highlight, as well. All performances are at the Herberger Theatre Center in downtown Phoenix. Website: arizonatheatre.org.

It began as a single-venue theater, but Phoenix Theatre today boasts a twostage enterprise, complete with classy restaurant and bar facilities. The complex at East McDowell Road and North Central Avenue is shared with the Phoenix Art Museum. Specialties of the company are musicals, and 2016-17 brings a raftload:

“Into the Heights” (Sept. 7 to Oct. 2), “Billy Elliot” (Nov. 16 to Dec. 24), and Bullets Over Broadway (March 8 to April 2) among them. Website: phoenixtheatre.com.

Arizona Opera opens 2016-17 with “Rusalka” (Nov. 11 to Nov. 13), its first production of Dvorak’s opera. But the really unique offering is an original, “Riders of the Purple Sage” (March 3 to March 5). All performances are at Phoenix Symphony Hall. Website: azopera.org.

According to The New York Times, the annual “Nutcracker” production by Ballet Arizona is among the five best outside of New York.” But don’t stop with the holiday favorite (Dec. 9 to Dec. 24), check out this major classical company’s production of “Romeo and Juliet,” produced to coordinate with the approach of Valentine’s Day, Febr. 9 to Feb. 12. Performances are at Phoenix Symphony Hall, with live music by The Phoenix Symphony. Website: balletaz.org.

Center Dance Ensemble annually presents “The Snow Queen” (Dec. 3 to Dec. 18), a modern-dance holiday alternative to ballet’s “Nutcracker,” plus other original work. The most interesting offering on this season’s lineup: “Eye of the Moon,” a work created after Lorca’s “Blood Wedding,” March 2 to March 5. Performances are at the Herberger Theatre Center in downtown Phoenix. Website: herbergertheater.org/.

“Christmas with Clay Aiken” is set for Dec. 16 at the Chandler Center for the Arts.

Hale Centre Theatre produces plays and musicals throughout the year in its luxurious facility near the heart of suddenly-hip downtown Gilbert, 50 W. Page Ave. The season commences with “The Drowsy Chaperone” (running through Oct. 8) and will include such offerings as the theater’s annual “Christmas Carol” (Dec. 1 to Dec. 24) and “Thoroughly Modern Millie” (Feb. 16-April 1). Website: haletheatrearizona.com.

PRESENTERS

ASU Gammage is a spectacular, Frank Lloyd Wright-designed venue on ASU’s Tempe campus, just south of University Boulevard and Mill Avenue. It is home to first-rate touring productions of Broadway shows. The first two this season couldn’t be more contrasted: a super-sexy revival of “Cabaret” (Sept. 13 to Sept. 18) and the ultimate family musical “The Sound of Music” (Oct. 18 to Oct. 23). If you haven’t seen it yet, “The Book of Mormon” comes to Gammage May 8 to May 18. (You’re going to have to wait another season for Hamilton! It is on the schedule for 2017-18). Website: asugammage.com.

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts is the flagship of local presenters, dating to the 1970s. The building is part of the Scottsdale Civic Plaza, at 7380 E. Second St., adjacent to Old Town Scottsdale. The artists it brings in cover a multitude of genres: Broadway, classical, pop, jazz & blues, theater and dance. Masterful jazz guitarist Pat Metheny kickstarts the season Sept. 16, the Warsaw Philharmonic drops in Nov. 3, and Broadway

mega-star Patti LuPone appears Jan. 28. Website: scottsdaleperformingarts.org.

Mesa Arts Center’s season opens with a shimmering memory of the 1960s: The Monkees. This is not a tribute band, but a band put together by the remaining living members of the pop-rock group: Micky Dolenz and Peter Tork. Their Sept. 15 appearance kicks off a season that includes appearances by stellar moderndance troupes of Twlya Tharp (Oct. 7) and Paul Taylor (April 20). Website: mesaartscenter.com.

From the outside, the Tempe Center for the Arts building, 700 W. Rio Salado

Parkway, seems to glide across the desert with metal sails. Inside, performances of all sorts are noteworthy, from the awardwinning Childsplay drama company to ASU School of Music pianists and vocalists to dance companies and jazz. The highlight of the latter is expected be the magnificent Bill Charlap Trio on April 22. Website: www.tempe.gov, type “arts” in the search engine.

The Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. The well-rounded schedule includes “Letters Home” (November 12), a drama based on actual letters written by service

personnel in Afghanistan and Iraq; Ballet Etudes’ performance of the “Nutcracker” (Nov. 25 to Dec. 4); and “Christmas with Clay Aiken” (Dec. 16), a concert by the singer of “American Idol” fame. Website: chandlercenter.org.

Higley Arts Center, 4132 E. Pecos Rd., is Gilbert’s focal point for the performing arts. Its 2016-17 offerings center on three areas: acoustic strings, one-man shows and classic-rock tribute bands. Particularly intriguing from the first group: 9-String Theory, a duo comprising six-string guitar and three-string Russian domra, Nov. 12. Website: higleyarts.org.

“The Drowsy Chaperone” is playing now at the Hale Centre Theatre in Gilbert.

The Monkees hit the Mesa Arts Center’s stage on Sept. 15.

ON STAGE

Colvin & Earle, Saturday, Sept. 3, SCPA. Longtime friends and admirers Shawn Colvin and Steve Earle have united to record their self-titled debut, a true standout in careers already filled with pinnacles and masterpieces.

You Can’t Take It with You, Tuesday, Sept 13, to Tuesday, Nov. 15, HCT. The Sycamores for all appearances are an average family, but when you throw in the Vanderhoffs, the Carmichaels, the IRS and the FBI, the fireworks really go off in this classic comedy that is the only play to win both the Pulitzer Prize for Best Play and the Academy Award for Best Picture.

An Evening with Pat Metheny, Friday, Sept. 16, SCPA. Metheny has won countless polls as “Best Jazz Guitarist” and awards, including three gold records and 20 Grammy Awards in 12 different categories. Joining him onstage will be Malaysian-Australian bassist Linda Oh, British pianist Gwilym Simcock and his longtime drummer Antonio Sanchez.

Squeeze, Wednesday, Sept. 21, SCPA. Friends Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook formed the band in 1973 that, more than four decades later, still tours and reminds fans why they left such an indelible impression on the U.K.’s music scene.

Brazilian Day Festival, Saturday, Sept. 24, SCPA. The Valley’s largest and most authentic Brazilian Independence Day celebration, Brazilian Day Arizona features an exciting lineup of live Brazilian entertainment, including performances by Grupo Cupim do Samba, BatalaLA, Axe Capoeira, Axe Folclorico and more.

Mary Chapin Carpenter, Sunday, Sept. 25, SCPA. Five-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee performs timeless hits from her expansive 14-album catalog and new songs.

Bernadette Peters, Saturday, Oct. 15, MAC. The three-time Tony Award winner who can be seen in the second season of the Golden Globe Awardwinning series “Mozart in the Jungle,” will perform signature songs from the multitude of iconic shows in which she has starred.

Angela Cheng and Alvin Chow, Friday, Nov. 18, GCAC. This husband-and-wife concert pianist duo plays compositions for one-hand, two hands and then four-hand compositions, showing the physical intricacies of two performers sharing the same instrument and creating tonal colors across the entire keyboard.

Bruce Hornsby, Friday, Nov. 18, SCPA. Despite early mainstream successes, he has pursued a more personal, idiosyncratic musical path, focusing on projects that sparked his creative interest, including collaborations with

the Grateful Dead, Spike Lee, Ricky Skaggs, Don Henley, Ornette Coleman, Bob Dylan, Bela Fleck, Bonnie Raitt, Pat Metheny and Robbie Robertson.

John Cleese and Eric Idle, Monday, Nov. 21, MAC. The founding members of Monty Python pioneered an irreverent, absurdist sensibility that is emulated by comics around the world. As individuals, they have written, performed and produced critically acclaimed shows such as “Spamalot,” “A Fish Called Wanda,” “Fawlty Towers” and “The Rutles.”

Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox, Sunday, Nov. 27, MAC. A genre-busting, rotating collective of musicians and vocalists who reimagine modern pop hits in the style of jazz, ragtime and swing classics of the 1920s to 1950s.

Chandler Symphony with Jim Curry, Saturday, Dec. 10, HCPA. Curry opens the show performing his John Denver holiday tribute followed by 18time Emmy nominee Lee Holdridge conducting the symphony.

Straight No Chaser, Saturday, Dec. 31, MAC. Formed years ago while students at Indiana University, the group has reemerged as a phenomenon with a massive fan base, more than 20 million YouTube views and numerous national TV appearances.

Pink Martini, Wednesday, Jan. 11, SCPA. An international phenomenon performing a retro-hip, multilingual repertoire throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas, featuring a dozen musicians who find inspiration in virtually every musical genre, from Baroque to disco.

Storm Large, Saturday, Jan. 14, SCPA. A finalist on the CBS show Rock Star: Supernova, she made her debut as guest vocalist with the band Pink Martini in 2011, singing four sold-out concerts with the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

The Marvelous Wonderettes, Tuesday, Jan. 17, to Tuesday, April 18, HCT. This smash off-Broadway hit takes you to the 1958 Springfield High School prom, where we meet four girls with hopes and dreams as big as their crinoline skirts who serenade us with classic ’50s hits including “Lollipop,” “Dream Lover,” “Stupid Cupid” and “Lipstick on Your Collar.”

Roots & Boots Tour, Friday, Jan. 27, CCA. Country music with Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw and Collin Raye.

Neil Sedaka with The Phoenix Symphony, Friday, Feb. 3, MAC. His impressive 50-year career ranges from being one of the first teen pop sensations of the ’50s, a songwriter for himself and other artists in the ’60s, and a superstar in the ’70s.

yMusic, Friday, Feb. 3, SCPA. A group of six New York City instrumentalists flourishing in the overlap between the pop and classical worlds, with virtuosic

execution and unique configuration (string trio, flute, clarinet and trumpet) that has attracted the attention of highprofile collaborators and more recently inspired an expanding repertoire of original works by some of today’s foremost composers.

Glenn Miller Orchestra, Sunday, Feb. 26, CCA. With its unique jazz sound, the resilient orchestra was formed in 1956 and has been touring consistently since, playing an average of 300 live dates a year all around the world.

Art Garfunkel: In Close-Up, Saturday, March 11, CCA. Grammy Award winner, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honoree and Golden Globe-nominated singer and actor with a live set that encompasses his solo hits, Simon and Garfunkel songs and cuts from his favorite songwriters— Jimmy Webb, Randy Newman and A.C. Jobim.

The Doo Wop Project, Saturday, March 18, CCA. A journey from foundational tunes of groups like the Crests, Belmonts and Flamingos through their influences on the sounds of Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, and The Four Seasons all the way to Michael Jackson, Jason Mraz and Amy Winehouse.

Aida, Thursday, May 18, to Saturday, July 1, HCT. Winner of four 2000 Tony Awards, Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida is an epic tale of love, loyalty and betrayal,

princess, and Radames, the soldier they both love.

ON STAGE VENUE INDEX

CCA—Chandler Center for the Arts 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler Tickets: 480-782-2680, chandlercenter.org

GCAC—Gold Canyon Arts Council 6410 Kings Ranch Rd., Gold Canyon Tickets: 480-983-2171, gcac1.com

HCPA—Higley Center for the Performing Arts 4132 E. Pecos Rd., Gilbert Tickets: 480-279-7194, higleycenter.org

HCT—Hale Centre Theatre

50 West Page Ave., Gilbert Tickets: 480-497-1181, www. haletheatrearizona.com

MAC—Mesa Arts Center

One E. Main St., Mesa Tickets: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter.com

SCPA—Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale Tickets: 480-499-8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org

chronicling the love triangle between Aida, a Nubian princess stolen from her country, Amneris, an Egyptian

BY MARC DRAKE, SENIOR PASTOR, FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF SUN LAKES

Summer is a great time to relax and feed your soul with a good book. But what kind of summer reader are you? Because there are different reading styles, I recently took a little vacation reading test out of curiosity. The results said that I am a 1,000-words-per-minute reader (which I doubt) and that, whether on vacation or not, I consume books at lightning speed (doubt that too). Of course, the validity of this test might be a little questionable since it misspelled the word “lightning”!

But reading is a love of mine and there are several books I have been making my way through this summer. Consider the

following five facts I came across about the importance of reading:

1) Reading can make you a better conversationalist.

2) Neighbors will never complain that your book is too loud.

3) Knowledge by osmosis has not yet been perfected. You’d better read.

4) Books have stopped bullets— reading might save your life.

5) Dinosaurs didn’t read. Look what happened to them.

It would be hard to dispute any of those facts! Yes, it is important to read. But it’s also important to read material that shapes your thinking in a positive and biblical way and provides practical guidance for the living of life. What have

I been reading this summer? “Things Not Seen” by John Bloom, “Loving Jesus More” by Phil Ryken, president of Wheaton College, and a biography of Winston Churchill, entitled “God and Churchill,” by his great grandson, Jonathan Sandys. I’ve also been reading “Think It Not Strange (Navigating Trials in the New America)” by John Piper and David Mathis. This book is very timely in light of changes and developments in our nation—a nation not as hospitable to our faith and convictions as it was a few decades ago. As panic is, obviously, not the answer, how do we live and function in this new America? This insightful little book helps prepare Christians for the days ahead.

The spiritual leaders of SanTan Sun-area churches, temples, mosques and other religious and spiritual gathering places are invited to contribute their Spiritual Reflections in essay format by sending their thoughts, enlightening insights and other writings of a spiritual nature to news@santansun.com.

Be certain to put “Spiritual Reflections submission” in the subject

The Good Life community event presents a free health education service for local residents to experience improved health and quality of life.

The Foothills Community Church (FCC), which moved into its new building in June, will host an event from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10, that addresses nutrition, stress management, wellness, healthy cooking, diabetes prevention, organic gardening, health screenings, CPR classes, healthy meals on a budget, and more. During the break, healthy snacks will be provided. The topics will vary each month.

Check the website, foothillsaz. org, for upcoming events. Foothills Community Church is located at 700 S. Hamilton St., Chandler. To RSVP, email goodlifeopenhouse@gmail.com or call 480-917-4688.

One of the featured workshops held monthly is “The Mechanics of Nutrition: How Nutrition Impacts Health and Disease in the Body” that will be led by Marlene Wolverton.

Wolverton is a sports nutritionist and ex-competitive NPC physique athlete. For the last 18 years, she has worked as a health educator, speaker and coach. During part of that time, she provided services to several well-known companies in the Valley, such as Bashas’/Food City, Chas Roberts Air Conditioning Company,

Arizona State Bar, Meritage Homes, People of Color and A New Leaf. She knows how difficult making healthy lifestyle changes can be. By coaching her clients, she has witnessed the great benefits people experience once they do make small changes.

“Most people do not realize they have untapped potential for experiencing improved health, greater energy, increased mental and cognitive function, enhanced quality of sleep, less sickness, and less stress,” Wolverton said. “I love helping people look and feel their best.”

The mission of Foothills Community Church is to impart a joyful walk with Christ to those who are searching for meaning and purpose in life through community acceptance, creative worship, in-depth Bible study, community outreach and relevant ministries.

Alicia Johnston became the pastor of Foothills Community Church on Jan. 1. She grew up in Arizona and has lived most of her life in the East Valley. After graduating with a master’s in divinity from Andrews University, she went to work as a church planter in South Carolina in 2013 before returning to Arizona. In a previous career, she was a counselor working in juvenile corrections for the state of Arizona, and as a substance abuse counselor for adolescents. She also earned a master’s degree in clinical psychology.

line, and keep your articles around 200-300 words, or they may be edited for length. Include your first and last name, title and facility name, address, phone number and website.

Spiritual Reflections are printed on a space-available basis, and submission does not guarantee print. The opinions represented in this column are those of the author and not that of the SanTan Sun News.

Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation welcoming new members Sept. 9

The Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation is hosting a welcome service as part of its Friday Night Services on Sept. 9.

According to the congregation’s staff, this is a chance for unaffiliated individuals and individuals new to the area to learn more about SLJC and what the congregation offers. For more information about this service, contact Jeff at 480-556-1284 or visit SLJC.org.

Celebrate the high holidays with SLJC, too. In October, it will celebrate Sukkot and Simchas Torah. Tickets for the high holidays are by calling Myra at 480-305-0533. The form for ordering tickets is available on the SLJC website at SLJC.org.

A series of adult education programs will be launched after the high holidays including a class on Hebrew reading and writing.

Here are upcoming events, all of which are held at Sun Lakes Chapel, unless otherwise noted:

• 7:30 p.m. Sept. 9, Shabbat Service, welcome to new and prospective members.

• 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2, Erev Rosh Hashana.

• 10 a.m. Oct. 3, Rosh Hashana.

• 10 a.m. Oct. 9, Kever Avot memorial service, Valley of the Sun Mortuary and

Cemetery. Dedication of new Jewish section, burial of sacred writings and private visitations.

• 7:30 p.m. Oct. 11, Kol Nidre.

• 10 a.m. Oct. 12, Yom Kippur.

• Afternoon of Oct. 23, Sukkot/Simchas Torah Celebration (time TBA).

• 7:30 p.m. Nov. 11, Shabbat service honoring veterans.

• 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9, Shabbat service celebration of Hanukkah.

SLJC is an established reform congregation that meets at the Sun Lakes Chapel on the second Friday of the month from September through June. In July and August, a rabbinic-led twilight service is in the Sun Lakes Chapel at 5:30 p.m. Oneg Shabbats are held immediately following services at Sun Lakes Country Club from September through June.

WEDNESDAY: Bible Study 12 Noon & 7 p.m. SUNDAY: WORSHIP 10 a.m.

Dr. Marc Drake, First Baptist Senior Pastor.

Oakwood Gospel Singers inviting new members Sisterhood sets event schedule

Learn to sing old-time gospel music in traditional four-part harmony with the Oakwood Gospel Singers, who will meet from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays beginning Sept. 26 at Sun Lakes Oakwood Arts & Crafts Center, 24218 S. Oakwood Blvd., Sun Lakes.

Gospel music has taken on many forms and styles over many years and has been sung and performed by countless individuals, bands, quartets, choirs and other groups. An all-time favorite is the traditional or “old Southern” variety

done in four-part harmony with a single acoustic instrument backup.

This is an organizing effort to form a group of singers who are passionate about this style of music. Weekly meetings will focus on four-part harmony with female soprano and alto voices and male tenor and bass voices. Come on down and bring your favorite old time gospel song.

For more information, contact Charley Akin at cakin@wbhsi.net or call 602-370-8550.

Shalom Chapter of Hadassah resumes programs

The Shalom Chapter of Hadassah’s summer hiatus is over and it’s back to work for it.

On Sept. 27, designer Lisa Gershkowitz will discuss her book “A Lifetime of Memories,” which helps readers create their own personal memoir.

Everything they need is included to complete a personal history of through a detailed questionnaire. Gershkowitz also helps steer patrons through the process with individualized workshops.

The group will meet at Stone & Vine Restaurant located at Queen Creek and Alma School Roads for a self-ordered

lunch at 11:30 a.m. Please bring cash. The program begins12:30 p.m. For reservations, call Ruth Friedman at 480-802-9600.

The Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation Sisterhood will kick off its year with a presentation by Rabbi Irwin Wiener at 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 20, in the Chapel Center. New or prospective members are

invited to attend a light lunch at 11:30 a.m. to get acquainted. To make reservations, call Anita Kolikoff at 480-895-8203. Plans are also in the making for the card party/mahjongg fest on Feb. 7.

PRIMERA IGLESIA BAUTISTA CHANDLER

"Aqui Hay Lugar Para Ti"

Los invita a ser participes en estudios biblicos Todos los Miercoles a las 6:30 P.M.

SPIRITUAL CONNECTIONS

Call ahead to confirm information, as details occasionally change after print. If you have a recurring monthly support group or meeting you would like listed in Spiritual Connections, email complete details to news@santansun.com.

SUNDAYS

Celebration Service

10:30 a.m. Sundays

All with peaceful beliefs are welcome to this inclusive, loving, thriving UNITY Community. Join the group at 10 a.m., proceeding the service, for fellowship. Youth and toddlers meet during service. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798, www.interfaith-community.org

Kids’ Sunday School

10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Sundays

Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800

Lift Your Spirit

10 a.m. Sundays

Hear inspirational messages and music. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church

7:30 a.m. daybreak contemplative worship

9 a.m. traditional worship and choral music

11 a.m. contemporary worship with live Christian rock band

There is also a service at 12 p.m. Wednesdays.

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 901 W. Erie St., Chandler. Info: (480) 899-7386, www.saintmatthewschurch.org.

MONDAYS

The Art of Parenting

7:30 p.m. Mondays

Six-session course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute and presented by Rabbi Mendy Deitsch of Chabad of the East Valley, designed to help parents at all levels of Jewish knowledge develop their own parenting philosophies and techniques. Cost is $99. Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Dr., Chandler. Info: (480) 855-4333, rabbi@chabadcenter.com

TUESDAYS

Silva Class and Meditation

6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays

Learn the Silva method with Lois Britland. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd, Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800.

Career Connectors

8:30 a.m. to noon, fourth Tuesday of month

Nonprofit organization connecting professionals in career transition to highquality resources and hiring companies; each event includes professional career speakers with presentations on relevant job search topics, three to four hiring companies, networking, resume help, career coaches, LinkedIn coaches and business portraits. Central Christian Church, Gilbert Campus/Student Center, 965 E. Germann Rd., Gilbert. Info: www.careerconnectors.org, (480) 442-5806

Christian Business Networking, Tri-City Chapter—Chandler, Tempe, Mesa

7:15 a.m. Tuesdays

Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals. Crackers and Co. Café, 535 W. Iron Ave., Mesa. Info: Maia, (480) 425-0624, www.christianbusinessnetworking.com

Christian Business Networking, Chandler Bi-Monthly Chapter

7:45 a.m. second and fourth Tuesdays each month

Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals.

Chandler Christian Church, Building B, Room 202, 1825 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler. Info: Maia, (480) 425-0624, www.christianbusinessnetworking.com

HOPE—Help Overcoming Painful Experiences

7 p.m. Tuesdays

Free weekly small group sessions helping people overcome emotional pain caused by divorce, grief, addictions and more; free child care for children ages 10 and younger. Desert Springs Church, 19620 S. McQueen Rd., Room 106, Chandler. Info: hope4all@ comcast.net, www.helpovercomingpainfulexperiences.org

Shalom Chapter of Hadassah

11:30 a.m. second Tuesday of each month

Iron Oaks (Oakwood) Clubhouse, 24218 S. Oakwood Blvd., Sun Lakes. Info: Cyril, (480) 802-0243; Kathy, (480) 895-5194; Shirley, (480) 883-9159; or Joyce, (480) 802-4902.

Monthly Women’s Fellowship

6:15 p.m. fourth Tuesday of each month

The monthly fellowship Bible study with the East Valley Chapter of Christian Women’s Devotional Alliance “ministers to women’s spiritual, emotional and physical needs.”

Best Western-Mezona

250 W. Main St., Mesa. Info: (480) 232-3773

Narcotics Anonymous (Nar-Anon)— Chandler Chapter

7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays Twelve-step program for families and friends of addicts. Faith Community Church, 1125 N. Dobson Rd., Chandler. Info: www.nar-anon.org

WEDNESDAYS

Panic Healing

7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Wednesday

Receive a 15-minute energetic tune-up. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800.

Gong Meditation and Yoga Nidra

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. third Wednesday

Presented by Will Zecco, gong master. Bring yoga mat, blanket and pillow as desired. Love offerings will be accepted. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798 or www.interfaith-community.org.

“A Course in Miracles” with the Rev. Julianne Lewis

1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. Wednesdays

The weekly group is an interactive time of learning and sharing, appropriate for course beginners, as well as long-time students of ACIM. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798, www.interfaith-community.org

The Art of Parenting

9:30 a.m. Wednesdays

Six-session course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute and presented by Rabbi Mendy Deitsch of Chabad of the East Valley, designed to help parents at all levels of Jewish knowledge develop their own parenting philosophies and techniques. Cost is $99. Chandler Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler. Info: (480) 855-4333 or rabbi@chabadcenter.com

Grief Care

6:45 p.m. Wednesdays

A place to come share your feelings or just listen to others as we try to navigate through our grief. You don’t have to do it alone. Epiphany Lutheran Church, South Campus, old church building, 800 W. Ray Rd., Room 325, Chandler. Info: griefcareaz@ gmail.com

Healing Prayer and Meditation Circle

7 to 8:15 p.m. Wednesdays

Guided prayer, affirmations and visualization for those facing physical, emotional, mental or spiritual issues in their lives. Love offering requested. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800

Meditation Moments

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. third Wednesday of the month

An interactive time of learning and sharing, appropriate for course beginners, as well as long time students of ACIM. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 5938798 or www.interfaith-community.org

St. Mathew’s Episcopal Church

12 p.m. Healing and Eucharist service

St. Mathew’s Episcopal Church, 901 W. Erie St., Chandler. Info: (480) 899-7386, www.saintmatthewschurch.org.

THURSDAYS

Women’s Empowerment & Awakening

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. third Thursday

Release negative beliefs. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800.

A Course in Miracles

7 p.m. first, second and fourth Thursday Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800.

Empower Model for Men

6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays

The three-class series is taught by author Scott E. Clark and designed to offer practical wisdom and tools to help men shift into their higher consciousness, based

on the seven-step empower model detailed in Clark’s book, “Empower Model for Men.” Cost is $85. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800

Real Love Support Group 6:30 p.m. Thursdays

For those who have a desire to acquire more “real love” and in the process find great personal happiness and more fulfilling relationships. Love offering requested. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800

FRIDAYS

Temple Havurat Emet

7:30 p.m. first Friday of each month Lecky Center, Robson Library. 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. Info: www.templehavuratemet.org

Grief

10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. every Friday

Each session presents a 45-minute videotape of expertise of counselors, pastors and others who have coped with grief and understand its effects and the steps toward healing. Each week a different stand-alone topic is presented as part of 13 sessions. Discussion follows, but participation is entirely voluntary. Call (480) 895-1088 for information. The program is offered at First Baptist Church Sun Lakes.

SATURDAYS

Spirit Night—Psychic Fair

4 p.m. to 8 p.m. third Saturday of each month

The “Lightworkers” offer a wide range of services including Reiki, facials, mediums, drumming, tarot, angel messages and more. Services range from $20 to $30. Cash only. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: www.interfaith-community.org; heatherposey70@gmail.com.

Spirit Night – A Holistic Healing Festival

1 p.m. to 6 p.m. third Saturday of the month Lightworkers offer a wide range of services including Reiki, facials, mediums, drumming, tarot, angel messages and more. Services range from $20 to $30. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: www.interfaith-community.org or heatherposey70@gmail.com

Unity Drumming and Healing Circle

6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. fourth Saturday of each month

Beginner, expert drummers and observers welcome. Bring snack, appetizer or dessert to share. Love donation accepted. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798, www.interfaith-community.org.

APPLIANCE SERVICE & REPAIR

TIP | TOP APPLIANCE REPAIR

Providing quality ser vice and repair on all major brands of Washers, Driers, Refrigerators, Ovens, Microwaves and Dishwashers. We provide a full 1-year warranty on all repairs. Certified, Licensed, Insured. Visit us at www.gototiptop.com. For service call: 480-907-4080.

CARPET CLEANING

BIG JOHN’S CARPET CLEANING

Our truck-mounted steam cleaning system will deep clean your carpets, ridding them of unwanted dirt, bacteria, fungus and chemical residues. Upholstery cleaning also available. Tile and grout cleaning. For a clean and healthy carpet, call 480-786-6610 or 602-989-8311. John Downs, Owner/Operator, Ocotillo Resident. Call for monthly specials.

MUSTANG CARPET & TILE CLEANING

Carpet, Tile & Grout, and Upholstery Cleaning. Family owned, truck-mounted steam cleaning. We offer 1/2-hour appointment time frame, so no waiting around. We include pre-spraying, mild deodorizer and degreasers for high traffic areas at no charge. Member BBB with A rating! “We clean like it’s our own”! 480-688-3003.

CHILDCARE SERVICES

TERRIE’S DAY CARE

Childcare in my home. Old stone ranch area. 20+ years experience. Openings for all ages. Flexible Monday-Friday day hours. Breakfast, lunch & pm snack provided. Call Terrie 480-785-6817

DRYWALL

ALL-STAR DRYWALL & PAINTING

Hang, tape, room additions, outside lid repairs, match all textures, popcorn removal water damage repairs, int, ext painting & much more 30 yrs exp ROC # 262737 free est call 602-743-6209

ELECTRICAL

E. Z. ELECTRIC SERVICE

RETIRED ELECTRICIAN. SMALL JOBS WANTED. I ALSO FIX LOW VOLTAGE OUTDOOR LIGHTING. ALL WORK TO CODE. I SHOW UP! 480-406-3610

CE ELECTRIC, INC

All aspects of electrical wiring and repair. · New homes · Remodels · Christmas lighting · Panel upgrades · Surge protection · Ceiling fans · New circuits · Hot tubs · All electrical repairs No job too big or small. All work guaranteed. 20 years experience. VISA/MC License # 289217 R-11 Bonded/Insured 480-939-1937

HOME REPAIRS

ALL HONEY-DO LISTS!

General Handyman Services. One Call, We Do It All! Owner does all work. Free Estimates with Pride & Prompt Service. Licensed, Bonded, Insured. ROC 118198. S&I General Contracting, Inc. Steve 602-339-4766.

UNIVERSAL HOME REPAIR

Small projects, house maintenance and renovations, house/apartment preparation for new tenants. Air conditioning repairs. 480-213-4005 jacekwrona@cox.net

HOME SERVICES

GLASS, MIRRORS, SHOWER DOORS

Family Owned with 33 years EXPERIENCE. Shower and tub enclosures. Install new one or repair what you have, insulated units, mirrored closet doors, window glass, mirrors, patio door glass, table tops to protect furniture. QUALITY SERVICE at Competitive Prices. FREE Estimates. WESLEY’S GLASS & MIRROR Call 480-306-5113, wesleysglass.com.

A2Z GARAGE DOOR SERVICES, LLC

Honest, Reliable and Simply the Best! Family Owned and Operated. 7 days a week/24 Hour Emergency Service. Licensed, Bonded, Insured. ROC243721. AFFORDABLE - Price Match Any Licensed Competitor. ANY make or model of Door/Opener. Spring Replacement. FREE Safety Inspection. $50 OFF ANY REPAIR. CALL 480-361-9700

HOMES FOR SALE

CHANDLER HOME FOR SALE: HUGE CORNER LOT WITH SPARKLING POOL, RV GATE AND NO HOA!

Just a few short blocks from downtown Chandler you will find this 2696 sq. ft. home nestled on a 28,000 sq. ft. corner lot with no HOA. The home remains just as the original owners built it back in 1975. This home is perfect for entertaining with a sunken living room, formal dining, great room plus a bonus room. Relax in the large master suite or enjoy cooking in the kitchen with the original cabinetry & appliances. Brick fireplace, RV gate and refinished pool & equipment. $350,000. MLS 5445091. Contact Louisa Ward Re/Max Excalibur 602-769-6699.

HOUSE CLEANING

CLEAN CASA CLEANING SERVICES

Reliable house cleaning done right the 1st time!! One-time, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, move-in/move-out, etc. Same 2-person crew every time at your house! We bring all our own supplies and equipment. Will customize. References. Take $10 off your first cleaning. Call today!! Amy 602-284-3579.

FINISHING TOUCH

CLEANING SERVICE...19 years in Chandler and Gilbert areas. Mother/Daughter Team with excellent long-term client references. METICULOUS w/an EYE 4 DETAIL!! Looking for Steady Clientele that want Consistent Quality Service with EVERY cleaning. Competitive rates. Exceptional Service!! We Love Pets!! Free in home estimate. Call Rita -480-250-9744.

“JENNIFER’S HOUSE CLEANING”

Not enough time in a day?? We Provide Quality Professional House Cleaning. Call for a free phone quote. Super dependable. Weekly, Bi-Weekly, Monthly. References available. 20 years experience. Bonded-AG0601. Insured-46871. It’s a CLEAR Choice!! Call 480-833-1027

PROFESSIONAL HOUSE CLEANING

35 Years Experience - 20 years in the Valley. Free estimates, local references. Move-out cleaning services available. All work done by non-smoking meticulous owner. Call Shirley 480-433-4945

SIMPLY GRAND CLEANING SERVICE

House cleaning specialists offering weekly, biweekly, monthly, or one-time cleanings. Also providing move-in/out cleaning service, windows and patios. We use GREEN environmentally friendly products. High quality services at a great price. Very dependable, insured and with excellent references. $10 off first service with mention of this ad. Call Reed for a free estimate 480-802-1992 or Email: contact@simplygrandcleaningaz.com

TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL HOUSEKEEPING

Immaculate, Dependable Service. Affordable Rates; Smaller Homes - $80. All supplies included. “You’ve tried the rest, now try the BEST!” Ask for Martha 480-495-5516 or 480-495-5545

LANDSCAPING SERVICES

A+ SPRINKLER REPAIR SERVICE

18 years experience repairing and replacing valves, drip systems, wire troubleshooting & timers. All repairs! Honest and reliable. East Valley native. Call and compare prices! 602-826-4717 www.AplusSprinklerRepair.com

AZ LANDSCAPE & HAULING SERVICES

Complete landscape and property maintenance including clean ups, hauling, installations, sprinkler install, maintenance and repair, tree care, painting, handyman, etc. English speaking, dependable, Insured, SmartScape Certified, Free estimates. Valley wide 480-200-9598

HECTORS LAWN CARE

Owner/Operator Mowing, Edging, Trimming, Blowing, Weed Control, Fertilizer, Clean Ups. FREE Estimates- 480-636-0286

LANDSCAPING SERVICES

I FIX LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

REPAIR/ REPLACE/ TROUBLE SHOOT COMPLETE SYSTEM. NIGHT LITE MAINTENANCE. 480-406-3610

KUTTINGEDGE LANDSCAPE

A Professional and Reliable Maintenance company. Contact us for weekly and biweekly service, one time clean ups, weed control, tree work and more. Call Rick for a free estimate 480-250-6608 or email Kuttingedgelandscape@cox.net and Visit www.kuttingedgelandscape.com.

SPRINKLER & DRIP REPAIRS

Aqua Masters. System Checks, Troubleshooting, Repairs, Maintenance, Leak Detection, Low Pressure, Valves, Timers, Heads, System-Add-ons. Call 480-478-0073. 40+YRS EXPERIENCE. AquaMastersAz.com

MOVERS

IN OR OUT MOVERS

Professional, hardworking, excellent service. No hidden fees. Whether you are moving in or moving out LEAVE THE LIFTING TO US! Serving the East Valley. www.inoroutmoversphoenixmetro.com or www.moverschandleraz.com Call Terry at 602-653-5367.

PAINTING SERVICES

A CUT ABOVE PAINTING, LLC

Your quality repaint specialist. Interior/ Exterior. Epoxy Floors. Roof Coatings. Stained Concrete. New Construction. FREE ESTIMATES! References available. Owner will be on job. Commercial/Residential. 30 years experience. Licensed-Bonded-Insured-ROC 257167. MENTION this ad to receive 5% OFF! 480-244-9119

AZ HOME & PAINT SERVICES

Affordable interior and exterior painting for every budget. Power washing, drywall repair etc. Experienced, Dependable & Insured. Valleywide. Free Estimates. 480-200-9598

EAGLE RIDGE PAINTING, LLC

Interior repaint specialist, offering inhome color consulting for every job. Using only quality low VOC paints, brush-n-roll application, two coat coverage. Family owned and operated with over 25 years experience. ROC 296732 Bonded & Insured. Call Sue 480-825-2122

EAST VALLEY PAINTERS

Voted #1 Repaint Specialists! Clean, Friendly Crews. Interior/Exterior. Drywall Repairs. Textures. Concrete Staining. Pool Deck Coatings. Garage Floors. Free Estimates. All Credit Cards Accepted. ROC 153131. 480-688-4770

SUNTECH PAINTING INC.

Gilbert/Chandler’s Trusted Painting Professionals. Residential/Commercial Painting Since 1987. Residential Exterior and Interior, Commercial Space/Professional Offices, Tenant Improvements. “Competitive Pricing With Our Same High Level of Quality”. Family Owned. FREE Estimates. ROC#155380 602-625-0599 suntechpainting@live.com

PLUMBING

ABC PLUMBING & ROOTER

CHANDLER/GILBERT *$50.00 OFF with this ad* *NO SERVICE CHARGE* 110% Guarantee*/ OWNER OPERATED Small & Large REPAIRS 24/7 Slab leak, water main, hot water heaters, & sewer repair specialist. Water softening specialist, water filters, and reverse osmosis. 100-year warranty on parts & labor. * BBB A+ Rating. BBB Ethics Award Winner. Chandler Chamber of Commerce Employer of Choice Award. *Call for details. 480-726-1600

CURE ALL PLUMBING

For all your plumbing needs! Free estimates and Senior Discounts! Water heaters, faucets, toilets, pipe leaks, garbage disposals, slab leaks, repiping, drain cleaning: Clogs, jetting, Camera inspection, locating. Water softeners, Reverse Osmosis systems. Sprinkler and Backflow repairs. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. Member of BBB. Cure All Plumbing 480-895-9838

POOL SERVICES

DM POOL SERVICE

And Estate Maintenance. Owner Operator. Weekly Pool Service. Equipment Repair. Filter Clean (all types). Household Repairs. Landscape Lighting. Many Other Services. $25 towards 1st Service or Repair. 480-295-2617. MyGoToPoolGuy.com

HENNESSY POOLS LLC

Tile Cleaning/Acid Wash. Vacation Service. Weekly Service & Repair. Filter Clean (All Types). Salt Systems. Sand Change. Green Pool Fix. FREE Estimates. Insured. $40 OFF Service, Repair or Filter Clean with Mention of this Ad. hennessypoolcare@yahoo.com, http://www.hennessypools.net/ 480-577-2719. Member of Home Advisor.

REAL ESTATE

RENTERS

Stop Paying Your Landlord’s Mortgage. Free Report Reveals How Easy it is to Buy Your Own Home. Free recorded message 1-800-495-0386 ID# 1001 Homelight Realty

ROOFING

THE ROOF MEDICS

Residential/Commercial. Repairs and Reroofing. Tile, Shingles, Flat, Walk-Decks. Licensed, Bonded, Insured. ROC #256001, K-42. 480-284-7338. www.theroofmedics.com

SEWER AND DRAIN

MASTER SEWER ROOTER

480-705-7772 SERVICE NOW!! 110% Guaranteed/100 Year Warranty. OWNER Operated, (Licensed, Bonded, Insured). 20% OFF Seniors/Military. A+ Rating with BBB, Chandler, Gilbert, Phoenix, AZ award winning. If it’s plumbing, we do it! 24-hour flood restoration services. Financing approval in minutes with NO MONEY DOWN & ZERO INTEREST.

SEWING MACHINE REPAIRS

SEWING MACHINE REPAIRS

You can watch while I repair your sewing machine in your home. Vintage or computerized. All makes. In business since 1968. Trip and service - $59.95. Call John McAulay 480-897-0338.

TRANSPORTATION

AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION

Black-Car/SUV service to both airports. We are “legal” and have been in business since 1995. Visit Southwest Sedan Service at: www.swsedan.net 602-481-0894

WINDOW CLEANING

FISH WINDOW CLEANING

Summer is here, let the Fish crew remove the dirt and grime from your windows: We make your WINDOWS SPARKLE, SUNSCREENS SHINE…Call 480-962-4688 now to secure your spot on the cleaning schedule. Accredited Member BBB

JOHN’S WINDOW CLEANING 1-story=$125; 2-story=$145. Price includes removing all screens, cleaning windows, inside and out, with screens replaced. Screens cleaned $2.50 each. Sunscreens and rescreening. Same day service. Call 480-201-6471

“MOM WAS RIGHT” Appearance Counts! PROFESSIONAL WINDOW CLEANING Detailed service and tidy inside your home! 1 story-$85 2 story-$125 - up to 35 panes. Price includes inside and out. Screens cleaned $2 each. Pressure washing and fixture cleaning also available. 19 years of accumulated references! CALL RON at 480-584-1643. Member of BBB.

ADVERTISING THAT WORKS!

BUSINESS DIRECTORY ADS

Four ads for only: $115 + Tax Contact SanTan Sun News for details. 480-898-5611 email: ads@SanTanSun.com

Where to Eat

Coconut’s Fish Café reels in the customers

BY JUDI KING

Kim Kuhljuergen was on the hunt for the best fish tacos when he was on vacation in Maui. His hotel manager directed him to Coconuts Fish Café.

“I was hooked,” he said.

Kuhljuergen was so impressed that he quit the corporate world to open three Coconut’s Fish Cafés, one of which is in the Shops at Ocotillo Plaza. The other two are in Scottsdale. They are the first mainland locations of Michael Phillips’ restaurants.

“Phillips was very apprehensive about putting his restaurant anywhere but a beach town. I had to convince him it would work,” Kuhljuergen said. He eventually persuaded Phillips to visit Scottsdale to see the lifestyle and the rapidly growing, fast-casual, healthy restaurant scene. Phillips agreed it would work and Kuhljuergen returned to Maui to work at Coconut’s to learn the business.

“I wanted to get a good handle on the operation before opening up the restaurant in Scottsdale,” he said. “I prepped, I cooked, I served. I did it all. It was total immersion.”

Kuhljuergen brought the Maui

ambience to Arizona with surfing videos streaming on large screens, custommade surfboard tables, large sea-themed murals on the walls and lively Hawaiian music playing. The beach vibe and the fresh, healthy island food was a winning combination. Kuhljuergen said it took his first Scottsdale store three days to match the sales of the Maui store’s three-year total.

“We provide the highest-quality food,” he said. “We go to great lengths to source ingredients to create healthy and delicious food, including gluten-free choices like our coleslaw with coconut milk dressing. We use only sustainable, wild-caught fish and get fresh ono and mahi-mahi delivered four times a week from a West Coast supplier. We hand-cut hundreds of pounds of fresh fish every single morning.”

It is that fish—along with 17 other fresh ingredients—that elevates Coconut’s fish taco to star status, earning the restaurant the prestigious Zagat’s award for “the perfect fish taco.”

The dish is the most popular item at Coconut’s and they come with two tacos per order, with grilled ono and

mahi-mahi, white corn tortillas, organic tomato salsa, cheese and mango salsa ($10.99). For the same price, tacos also can be ordered with steak, chicken or veggies instead of fish.

Other popular dishes include a choice of grilled mahi-mahi, oho or ahi fish “local style” over rice or on a bun ($10.99), macadamia nut mahi-mahi with coconut mango sauce ($14.99), seafood chowder ($5.49 to $9.99), coconut shrimp ($8.99) and taco mountain with a choice of fish, chicken, steak or veggies and all the taco fixings over brown rice ($11.49).

The menu also includes four appetizers ($8.99 to $11.99), seven salads ($5.99 to $12.99), fish, shrimp or calamari and chips ($11.99), seafood or chicken pasta ($15.99) and a choice of six healthy

meals on the kids’ menu ($3.99 to $5.99). Along with soft drinks, Coconut’s offers Hawaiian craft beer ($3.50 to $6) and wine ($5 to $8).

The enthusiastic following and success of Coconut’s Fish Café can be attributed to Kuhljuergen’s adherence to the authenticity and quality of the original Maui restaurant, along with the Aloha spirit: “the joyful (oha) sharing (alo) of life energy (ha).”

Coconut’s Fish Café

115 W. Ocotillo Rd., suite 1 Chandler 85248

480-247-7900 coconutsaz.com

Owner Kim Kuhljuergen, is ready to say “aloha” to his customers in Chandler. Submitted photo

The fish taco at Coconut’s was declared “perfect” by Zagat’s. STSN photo by Judi King

Fish tacos, mahi-mahi sandwich on a sesame bun and Hawaiian-brewed beer

an unbeatable combination. Submitted photo

Simple steps to smarter snacking

When hunger strikes, it can be tempting to reach for the closest treat, even if it’s laden with fat and empty calories. Make it easier to enjoy better-for-you snacks with these three simple steps that appeal to your taste and your waist.

1. Know that choosing more healthy snacks can still be quick and convenient. Learn to recognize your hunger patterns and keep foods on hand to fit your cravings. For example, if you tend to need a midafternoon pick-me-up at work, prepare snack-size portions of finger foods that feel hearty without weighing you down.

2. Make flavor count in every bite. Watching what you eat doesn’t have to be bland. In fact, an eating plan that cuts back on your calorie intake is the perfect reason to pay more attention to what you eat and thoroughly enjoy it, rather than wasting a portion of your daily consumption on foods that don’t taste great.

3. When your sweet tooth is screaming, answer it with the refreshing indulgence of a fruity dessert. Fruit-based desserts are naturally sweet and deliver some of the key nutrients your body needs, so you can feel extra good about bypassing other options laden with unhealthy ingredients.

3 Steps for a Snack

With just three ingredients and three steps, it’s easy to choose and prepare a quick, healthy snack. All you need is

celery, peanut butter and raisins.

1. Wash celery then cut stalks in half and trim to desired length.

2. Spread or pipe peanut butter into recessed side of stalks.

3. Sprinkle with raisins, as desired.

Fill up with fruit

Creating delicious desserts can often require a ton of time and a variety of complicated steps. Rather than wasting minutes making dessert instead of eating it, try Pineapple Cherry Minis made with Dole Canned Fruit, a convenient and easy ingredient to use in all of your dessert recipes. Pineapple Cherry Minis require just 20 minutes of preparation before chilling in the refrigerator, and the fruit makes them a healthier dessert option than most after-dinner sweets. For more quick and healthy dessert options, visit dolesunshine.com.

Pineapple Cherry Minis

Prep time: 20 minutes

Total time: 3 hours

Servings: 12-14

1 can (20 ounces) Dole Crushed Pineapple

2 cans (6 ounces) Dole Pineapple Juice

1 package (6 ounces) cherry gelatin 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 cup frozen Dole Dark Sweet Cherries 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Drain pineapple, reserve juice. Bring reserved juice plus canned pineapple juice to boil. Add gelatin; stir at least 2 minutes to completely dissolve. Chill until mixture thickens slightly.

Fold in pineapple, nutmeg, cherries and pecans. Spoon into 12-14 foil-lined muffin cups, lightly sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Chill until firm. Store leftover gelatin in refrigerator.

A healthy, frozen treat

Maintaining a healthy diet is key to staying fit, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a sweet treat every now and then. Make smart snack choices that taste delicious, such as Dole Jarred Fruit, which contains five servings of high-quality, ready-to-eat fruit packed in 100 percent fruit juice in every jar. With a convenient, re-sealable lid, you can just scoop out what you need to top your favorite dish with fruit or make quick and easy good-for-you treats, such as these Peach Crisp Pops. Find healthier snack ideas at dolesunshine.com.

Peach Crisp Pops

Prep time: 10 minutes

Total time: 3 hours, 10 minutes

Servings: 6

1 jar (23.5 ounces) Dole Sliced Peaches, divided

4 teaspoons maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2/3 cup granola

1 cup vanilla flavored Greek yogurt

Measure 1 1/2 cups drained fruit and 6 tablespoons juice. In medium bowl, combine juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, granola and yogurt. Stir to blend well.

Place 2 peach slices in each frozen pop mold. Pour yogurt mixture into molds or small paper cups. Place on tray and freeze about 1 hour, or until partially set.

Insert frozen pop stick into center of each mold; freeze 2 hours longer, or until firm.

Healthy hummus for a happy snack

When snack time rolls around, a quick, convenient bite to eat is often the way to go. With easy-to-make Hummus Pinwheels, your light, healthy snack can be a breeze. Because any of the 14 varieties of Sabra Hummus work for this simple recipe, your taste buds have the final call on flavor. Plus, since hummus can boost fiber intake and helps keep your calorie count low, you can count on it as a healthy alternative to common snacks. To find more tips for light snacking, visit sabra.com.

Hummus Pinwheels

Prep time: 10 minutes

Total time: 10 minutes

Servings: 2

1 cup Sabra Hummus, any flavor

2 large soft tortillas

1/2 cup thinly sliced red pepper

1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber

1/2 cup thinly sliced cantaloupe

4 leaves lettuce

Spread thin layer of hummus on both tortillas. Divide red pepper, cucumber, cantaloupe and lettuce between tortillas. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks. Slice into pinwheels and serve.