SanTan Sun News - November 18, 2017

NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017 | www.SanTanSun.com

Relentlessly local coverage of Southern Chandler and our neighboring communities

Happy Thanksgiving!

Chandler mom-and-pops get ready Christmas shoppers

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Staff

Mom-and-pop stores and other small businesses are going to roll out the red carpet on Nov. 25 to try to urge shoppers to spend big bucks on Christmas gifts in Chandler.

They will be joining independent companies around the country on Small Business Saturday, trying to entice consumers to nix online retailers and big-box stores and buy presents close to home.

Shoppers can take advantage of big sales, snag freebies and enjoy entertainment at businesses around Chandler.

Last year on Small Business Saturday, 112 million consumers spent $15.4 billion at small businesses around the country, according to 2016 study by Amex and the National Federation of Independent Business.

“Small, family-owned and

independent businesses not only create character in a community but they also create wealth,” said Beth Fiorenza, executive director of the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership, adding: “Statistics show if you spend $100 at a local business, roughly $68 stays in your local economy. If you spend the same at a large business, only $43 stays in the local economy. Shop local and make a difference where you live.”

The Chandler Chamber of Commerce also is promoting Small Business Saturday and local shopping throughout the holiday season as well as year-

“These offers range from dining experiences, catering, retail, products and services,” said Terri Kimble, president/CEO of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce. “Chandler’s small businesses are so important to everyone in the community, and many times, their value is underestimated.

Competition is stiff during the holiday season, and this is a way for us to help them get the word out.”

The Chandler Chamber said it’s proud to team up with the SanTan Sun News to put links on their websites to the Chamber’s Holiday Blast, which is filled with the special deals from local Photos by Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

Denise McCreery, owner of d’Vine Gourmet on South Alma School Road, shows off some of the Arizona-made wines sold at her shop. The store sells about 70 types of wine, many from familyowned and boutique wineries, along with gourmet foods, chocolates and sweets.

round. The Chamber sends an electronic Holiday Blast with information on its members’ special offers.

businesses.

People will be able to find the Chandler Chamber Holiday Blast deals

on chandlerchamber.com or santansun. com. The Chandler Chamber supports American Express and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce with their Small Business Saturday efforts and will be handing out American Express shopping bags promoting local businesses.

Downtown small businesses will be offering specials and singers and bands will be performing from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in front of Saba’s Western Wear at 67 W. Boston St. and Sibley’s West: The Chandler and Arizona Gift Shop, 72 S. San Marcos Place.

People can take selfies at a giant Downtown Chandler Community Partnership Santa’s Sleigh in the new parklet between Crust Chandler – Simply Italian restaurant, 10 N. San Marcos Place, and SanTan Brewing Company, 8 N. San Marcos Place.

“Chandler has seen the addition of many new small businesses like Mix see

SMALL BUSINESS page 16

Chandler abuzz with northsouth transit possibilities

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Staff

Photos by Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

Jodi Brocki, left, cries with Christina Nguyen as they hold signs outside Corona del Sol High School last Thursday to remind students they aren't alone. They were responding to the recent suicide of the third Corona student in two years.

As EV teen suicides mount, Queen Creek takes new action

BY JIM WALSH Staff

After experiencing the heartbreak of teen suicide, Queen Creek residents are uniting to combat the problem as high school officials have taken the unusual step of screening all their students, and others are launching a youth commis-

sion.

Queen Creek’s holistic response comes after at least two students at Queen Creek High School committed suicide since May and two others in the area were reported. There have been at least 10 teenage suicides in the East Valley see

SUICIDES page 8

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Buzz is building about a possible light rail or other type of new or improved public transportation system on Arizona Avenue or Price Road in Chandler, but it could be years before anything gets rolling or even leaves the station.

The process will be complex and long as officials decide whether to add of high-capacity transit, where to build or expand it, how to prepare a community for it and how to pay for it.

It also involves many different players, including cities, Valley Metro and residents. High-capacity transit could include light rail, frequent local bus service and a streetcar, among other options.

Chandler Mayor Jay Tibshraeny at a Coffee with the Mayor 2017 event last month briefly talked about transportation-upgrade discussions.

“We’re having discussions about a new

transportation plan,” Tibshraeny said.

“One of Chandler’s strengths has been planning to the future. We’ve talked about doing some preliminary work on light rail. We’re doing some studies with Mesa because Mesa has light rail. You should all pay attention to that and weigh in.”

The mayor said Amazon required a “progressive transportation system” in the community it will select for its second U.S. headquarters. Chandler submitted a proposal to Amazon.

Tibshraeny’s comments sparked interest from business owners at the coffee gathering, which also drew residents, school officials and City Council members.

Caryn Martinez, vice president/coowner of CMIT Solutions of Gilbert and Mesa, expressed interest in a possible light rail along Price Road or Arizona Avenue.

“I can see advantages to both of these routes,” Martinez said. “A Price Road route

F E AT U R E STO R I E S Cost of kitty rescues is “astronomical” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . COMMUNITY . . . . . . Page 22 Chandler salon styles Cardinals Cheerleaders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BUSINESS . . . . . . . . . Page 30 Friends rally to aid ailing Casteel principal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NEIGHBORS . . . . . . . . Page 50 “Nutcracker’ ready for the holiday season . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ARTS . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 59 Smokin Fins is a smokin’ place to eat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EAT . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 72

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COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Public education advocates hail passage of all EV school overrides

BY PAUL MARYNIAK Executive Editor

Public school supporters say the big margins racked up in favor of overrides and bond-related ballot questions in three of four East Valley and Ahwatukee school districts shows an expectation for more funding by the state Legislature.

Voters in four East Valley school districts last week approved four budget overrides and one bond authorization extension by nearly 2-1 margins.

Unofficial results in the all-mail elections showed that Kyrene voters approved a continuation of its 15 percent overrides for its maintenance/operations and capital budgets while Chandler voters did the same with the district’s maintenance and operations budget.

Tempe Union High School District easily won approval to not only continue its 10 percent override but gradually increase it by 5 percent over the next few years. That additional 5 percent will be used exclusively for teacher and staff salary increases.

And in Queen Creek, voters OK’d by a 5545 margin a bond issue that had been rejected last year. District officials said they need the bond to build two schools to alleviate overcrowding caused by a sharp increase in enrollment in recent years. Voters also gave the district the go-ahead to rearrange its list of capital improvements.

The override approvals in Kyrene and Chandler will not affect property taxes.

Property taxes will likely increase slightly in Tempe Union as the additional 5 percent override kicks in.

Unofficial results show the override in Tempe Union passed with 63 percent of voters approving it. About 68 percent

LIGHT RAIL from page 1 is attractive to tech and manufacturing employers, because it brings employees from outside of Chandler directly to work. An Arizona Avenue route helps… residents of Chandler easily get to MCC (Mesa Community College), ASU, and jobs and events in downtown Phoenix.”

The city’s High Capacity Transit Major Investment Study of July 2003 looked at the Price Road Corridor “in the context of HCT (high-capacity transit), but recommended bus rapid transit, express bus and a circulator for consideration if warranted,” said Dan Cook, Chandler’s transportation policy manager.

While the city paid for and conducted that study, Valley Metro and the Maricopa Association of Governments participated as cooperating agencies.

Recently, questions were raised about whether a light rail in the Price Road Corridor was considered so an upcoming transportation master plan “will look at that possibility for future consideration,” Cook added. That master plan will be started in the next several months, he said.

Talks about how and if to beef up public transportation on Arizona Avenue have been brewing for several years.

The 2003 transit study identified Arizona Avenue, Rural Road and Chandler Boulevard as possible routes or corridors that “could be or would work as high-capacity transit,” Cook said. Transportation studies were discussed at a Chandler City Council special meeting/retreat last month.

of Kyrene voters approved the bond authorization while 63 percent OK’d its override requests. Chandler voters went 64-36 percent in favor of continuing that district’s override.

The Tempe leader of Save Our Schools Arizona said she is pleased “at the unprecedented success of all Maricopa County bond and override campaigns, which our volunteer network mobilized in support of this fall using call and text campaigns, canvasses, social media outreach and more.”

“The approvals send a loud and clear message to Gov. Doug Ducey and the Legislature: Voters value public education. Voters want to invest in public education. Voters will turn out for public education ballot measures and pro-public education candidates,” said Dawn Penich-Thacker, adding: “Going into the 2018 legislative session and 2018 election cycle, Save Our Schools Arizona intends to keep their network of volunteers and the Arizona electorate focused on a) rejecting defunding schemes like Proposition 305 voucher expansion and additional tax cuts for corporations and b) supporting public education funding proposals and candidates.”

Ahwatukee Realtor Christie Ellis, who led the “Yes” campaign for Kyrene’s measures, said, “A lot of wonderful people worked very hard to educate the community to get the votes. As a mom of two girls in Kyrene, and having been here since kindergarten, I personally am so grateful they will continue with an excellent education supplemented with wonderful enrichment programs in a safe environment.”

“Of course, the real estate agent in me is also happy our home values will stay strong,” Ellis added.

Chandler schools spokesman Terry Locke noted that this year’s was the most successful override in district history, slightly surpassing the “yes” total in 2003.

“It is a privilege to serve a community that provides tremendous support,” he said. “Passage will position CUSD to continue to recruit and retain the best staff and maintain effective programs.”

Kyrene board President John King said, “So many people I know – myself included – live in this district because of the excellent schools we have here. The local support has been and continues to be strong as evidenced by the results.”

He said the margin of victory “means we continue to focus on improving on what we teach our kids and how, that we in Kyrene will continue to focus on improving the teaching and learning processes. Last night's results allow us to move forward without hesitation. But it does not remove the necessity to be frugal and smart about how we spend the money we get through taxes.”

Noting that the tax rate remains unchanged in Kyrene, he added, “Kyrene strives to be open and transparent about all that we do. That will never stop. We will continue to involve the community and our staff of administrators and teachers by seeking their input as we move forward with the changes necessary to evolve Kyrene into a 21st-century school district.

Tempe Union governing board member Sandy Lowe said her district’s override involved “one of the least contested elections ever.”

“I believe one of the reasons for this is that many more people are understanding the situation of public education in Arizona, thanks to the statewide effort by

many education advocates dedicated to ensuring our kids receive a quality education,” Lowe said, adding: “We are, of course, relieved and happy with the results. We are so glad we can give a well-deserved raise to our certified classroom teachers, though it's very small. We are always so appreciative to the community volunteers that step up to lead this effort, and in this case, Beth Brizel, Corey Woods and Anna Chalmers.

Most important, we never take for granted our community, who understands how critical it is to support our Tempe Union students and staff in this way.”

The elections drew little interest from voters, with less than 30 percent of all registered voters casting ballots in any of the elections.

Queen Creek saw the biggest turnout, with 28 percent. Chandler’s override election drew 27.8 percent of all registered voters while 25 percent of Kyrene’s registered voters bothered to mail in a ballot.

In Tempe Union, only 22.8 percent of registered voters cast ballots, according to unofficial results.

Citizen budget committees in the four districts unanimously recommended overrides be continued and, in Kyrene’s case, its borrowing authority extended another seven years to a maximum of $116 million.

Those committees noted that without the overrides, class sizes would likely increase, programs would be cut and other services would be curtailed.

The Kyrene capital budget override was seen as critical to the school board’s hopes of repairing and upgrading schools, many of which are more than 30 years old.

All registered voters received both ballots, a spokeswoman for the Maricopa County Recorder’s office said.

Alleviating congestion on the Price Freeway between U.S. 60 and the Santan Freeway has been a concern of transportation officials for several years. The Arizona Department of Transportation earlier this month called for comment on its long-range planning, which includes the possibility of adding a fifth lane on the freeway.

The Arizona Avenue High-Capacity Transit Long Range Study in 2012 concluded, “The Arizona Avenue corridor shows significant promise as a corridor capable of supporting high-capacity transit, but commitments to transitsupportive land uses must be made to recognize the corridor’s true potential.”

Valley Metro, Chandler, Mesa and Gilbert worked on that study.

“When something might be decided is a long ways off,” Cook said. “There’s an awful lot of studies that need to occur before that. The funding needs to be in place.”

He said he estimates it would be at least 15 to 20 years before it’s even decided whether a light rail should be built in Chandler, “assuming that LRT is even determined to be viable in Chandler.”

“Any other decisions on other types of HCT, such as more frequent bus service, could be made sooner,” Cook said.

The 2012 high-capacity transit study made several recommendations, including a shift “toward more compact growth patterns would have a positive influence on the study area.”

“Conducting small area planning to specify target densities or the creation of overlay districts that support greater

densities surrounding Arizona Avenue will be an important step toward achieving a transitsupportive corridor,” the 2012 study said.

It recommends that city policies and plans “encourage transit-supportive development,” said Deron Lozano, a Valley Metro planner.

The study also recommended “improving and enhancing local bus service connections” with buses running more often, if Arizona Avenue is chosen as a highcapacity transit corridor, Lozano said.

Last month on Arizona Avenue, bus service was increased and started running every 15 minutes in Chandler.

In 2011, Chandler and Mesa started Bus Rapid Transit service on Arizona Avenue/ Country Club Drive that ran on a 30-minute frequency, in addition to the Route 112 fixed route service that been running for many years at a 30-minute frequency, Cook said.

In October of last year, the BRT and Route 112 on Arizona Avenue were consolidated into the Route 112 service with 15-minute service in the morning and p.m. peak periods and 30-minute service in midday and evenings. Last month, the new Route 112 service that began last year was boosted to 15-minute, all-day service with 30-minute service after about 5:30 p.m., Cook said.

The Fiesta-Downtown Chandler Transit Corridor Study released this spring reviewed light rail in Mesa, along with possible highcapacity transit in Chandler.

Mesa is studying its long-term options for a second light rail line but a mode and toute have not been determined. Currently,

the light rail is being extended on Main Street from Mesa Drive to Gilbert Road in Mesa.

Valley Metro, starting next year, will be working with Chandler on an alternatives analysis to review all possible high-capacity transit options generally in the city from Baseline Road through downtown.

Wulf Grote, director of capital and service development for Valley Metro, said Valley Metro does not “have an opinion” on possible high-capacity transit on Price Road, but “we’re still open to other options” besides Arizona Avenue.

“Anytime that we develop a study like this throughout the region, we always work through the city councils in the individual communities to make sure they support the direction we’re taking,” Grote said.

“If there’s going to be anything recommended in Chandler, the City Council, with a lot of input from the community, will be involved in that. We need to make sure there’s the right kind of demand for the high-capacity transit investment.”

He said different types of transportation carry different amounts of people. Light rail can also boost the economy.

“One of the things that we have seen is that, at least along the light rail route, is that people do make investment decisions based upon the location of our rail line,” Grote said. “We have seen close to $10 billion dollars worth of public and private investment made within walking distance of our stations since we developed,” around the Valley.

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

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SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

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Former Chandler resident killed by alleged drunk driver

BY PAUL MARYIAK Executive Editor

A former Chandler resident who still worked in the city was struck and killed Nov. 2 by an alleged drunk driver while she was on her regular early morning jog near her home.

Martha Hilts, 36, was killed after a car struck her from behind while she was jogging in her Ahwatukee neighborhood of Lakewood around 4:30 a.m. Nov. 2.

The driver, Shannon Marie Scott, 25, also of Lakewood, was arrested on a felony charge of reckless manslaughter after police say her blood-alcohol level was .08 – exactly at the minimum for a drunk-driving determination.

The arrest report said that besides the defendant showing “signs and symptoms of alcohol impairment,” police detected “a strong odor of marijuana” in her car.

Reports also said police estimate the car was traveling at 40 m.p.h. when it struck the victim, throwing her 75 feet.

The car also struck a cement garbage receptacle and a palm tree before coming to a stop, according to reports. Scott was booked into jail on a $25,000.

Friends, neighbors and strangers from Ahwatukee, two schools, a church and the running community immediately began trying to help Mrs. Hilts’ widowed husband Chris and their two children, Jessica, 12, and Anthony, 8, while mourning her passing.

Friends and acquaintances set up a fundraiser, a drive to collect restaurant

Special to SanTan Sun News

Former Chandler resident Martha Hilts, second from left, was killed while jogging near her Ahwatukee home Nov. 2. She took this photo of herself, husband Chris and two children.

gift cards and a request for donations on youcaring.com that so far has raised more than half of a $25,000 goal. The site is at youcaring.com/ chrisjessicaandanthonyhilts-998863.

“Martha was the center and the strength of her family. Many will miss her kindness and generosity,” friends posted on youcaring.com. “Martha was an awesome

wife and mom and cannot be replaced. But we can pass on her love by helping the Hilts family.”

Mrs. Hilts worked at Pacific Scientific Energetic Materials Co. in Chandler, where employees posted remembrances of her as “a great person and a hard worker” known for “her integrity, kindness, always able to get everything done and never ever with a

mean thought or word.”

Said another coworker, “I admired Martha so much … Our conversations always started by talking about our kids. With her quite demeanor, she moved mountains!”

Company officials did not return phone calls for comment.

At two Ahwatukee schools, as well as in her neighborhood and her church, Mrs. Hilts was particularly well known and beloved.

News of her death prompted expressions of deep sorrow and fond appreciation.

Mrs. Hilts was active at Mountain Park Community Church with the children’s ministry and in several volunteer efforts that help the homeless.

Neighbor Avon Ropke, who with her husband Chad set up the youcaring.com site, and Andie Klein, another friend, described her as a tireless worker in homeless outreach programs.

She would sometimes wait on homeless families who were invited to spend the night at Mountain Park, serving them food and tending to their other needs.

Ropke said Mrs. Hilts grew up in an impoverished Mexican area around Santa Cruz.

“It was a very poor area and I think she felt called to help the homeless because of that,” she said. Mrs. Hilts still has family in Santa Cruz, including her father, who is too ill to make the trip to Ahwatukee for his daughter’s funeral.

“She was always very, very humble, super see

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SUICIDES from page 1 since July.

A series of other education and prevention efforts have been held throughout the East Valley, giving a frightening problem a much higher profile.

They have ranged from Desert Vista High School’s conference in Ahwatukee last week to previous sessions at Mesa Community College, sponsored by the Mesa Chamber of Commerce, and another in Gilbert.

But only 24 hours after the Tempe Union High School District sponsored a teen suicide conference in Ahwatukee, a third student in two years from one of the district’s schools took his life.

The latest tragedy occurred Nov. 7 in Chandler when a 15-year-old Corona del Sol High School sophomore shot himself to death at the apartment complex where he lived. His death follows a Corona student’s suicide last year and one in 2015 that occurred on the campus.

In reaction to that suicide, about a dozen people held a “Kids Matter’’ rally outside Corona del Sol recently, carrying signs directed at teenagers arriving for school reading “we care,’’ “you’re not alone,’’ “reach out we care.’’

Jodi Brocki was tearful at the rally. She had attended the educational forum at Desert Vista.

“It just deeply hurts my heart,’’ Brocki said. “I am deeply concerned about these kids and I am truly concerned for my three boys.’’

Organizer Christina Nguyen acknowledged one concern is that the biggest

indicator of a suicide occurring is that one has already happened.

“We want to show this community that they are loved, they are hurting,’’ she said.

The Corona tragedy has given even more urgency to efforts to curb teen suicide in the East Valley.

While the education and awareness sessions are universally praised, experts say more intervention is needed to address the persistent problem – including identification of high-risk students and referral to care.

Empact, a Tempe anti-suicide agency, is screening all students at Queen Creek High School, an unusual move in the East Valley.

After a 50-minute “Signs of Suicide” class about suicide, depression and other mental health issues, students can come forward to seek help for themselves or to report concerns about their friends.

“We’re trying in a short period of time to educate the whole school,” said Sandra McNally, Empact’s prevention manager. “Students are realizing they are not helping by not telling. So many students are coming forward to say, ‘I am concerned about my friend.’”

The effort is drawing praise.

“The screening part is not typical at all, but it is so well-directed,” said Katey McPherson, an anti-teen suicide activist and executive director of the Gurian Institute, which has been organizing the education and prevention forums.

Nikki Kontz, Teen Lifeline’s clinical director, said the organization has partnered with more than 100 schools in Arizona.

Teen Lifeline operates a 24-hour ho-

tline with teens helping teens. The number is listed on the back of student identification badges in the Tempe Unified School District and in Queen Creek.

Kontz said Empact and Teen Lifeline have worked with many districts, but the extent of the Queen Creek screening program is unusual.

McNally agreed, saying many school districts agree to workshops and more limited programs than Queen Creek’s, saying they have counselors to handle the problem “There’s a lot of stuff that’s new to the East Valley; it is not new to the state,” Kontz said. “It’s overcoming the stigma of mental health in general. If we can reach kids earlier, suicide doesn’t need to be part of the conversation.”

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Lee Harmon, a Queen Creek High School counselor, said his school is trying to address teen suicide through prevention.

“More education and more awareness are a must in all schools,” he said. “They will not only help themselves, but they will know how to help a friend.”

Because teenagers are not equipped to handle a complicated mental health problem, such as suicidal thoughts, “they need to tell a trusted adult,” Harmon said.

The Queen Creek suicides also sparked concern from the town’s Chamber of Commerce.

Chris Clark, the Chamber president and CEO, is bringing together different organizations to address teen suicide, saying he’s acting in his role as a community leader and going beyond his usual job of representing business interests.

Clark is hoping to create a teen council, modeling it somewhat off a student-led anti-suicide effort at Corona called Aztec Strong. That group was started by Corona student Tatum Lynn Stolworthy, a singer who created the movement to make sure every student had a friend to talk to.

Clark was moved by a raw, heart-rending Facebook post by Queen Creek student Autumn Bourque, who wrote about the sadness of teens losing their friends and alleged that school officials were not doing enough to address the issue.

The Chamber leader teens are suffering the most and their insight should not be overlooked.

“I want an active committee. We are see

SUICIDES page 9

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

COMMUNITY NEWS

9

SUICIDES from page 8 going to empower them to put their plans into place,” Clark said.

The town of Queen Creek also is sponsoring a Suicide Prevention and Awareness Community Forum in conjunction with Banner Health at 6 p.m. Nov. 30 at the Law Enforcement and Community Chambers building.

Bourque’s Facebook post got a strong response, motivating Queen Creek officials to act. But it also disappointed some school officials, who say they have been working on suicide prevention for a year.

“It’s made more people aware, but it has made people more sensitive,” Bourque said, calling the school’s response “a minimal effort.”

Bourque said she is encouraged, however, by the screening program and by the youth commission concept advocated

by Clark. She said she is working with Stolworthy on launching a support group similar to Aztec Strong and she would like to participate on the commission.

“I think kids my age, we’re just under a lot of pressure to do well academically,” she said. “If you have a hard home life, it doesn’t help.”

Queen Creek High Principal Paul Gagnon declined to comment specifically on Bourque’s post but said the school is committed to fighting teen suicide headon and that he makes it a point to speak with students.

“When we get students behind it, it makes a big difference,” he said. “They want more positive messages that they are loved and cared for.”

(Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer)

Two days after another student took his life, several parents and students showed up at Corona del Sol High Nov. 9 to reassure teens.

Gagnon also embraced the chamber’s youth commission initiative, saying, “What we’re about is developing leaders in our students. It’s a great forum for students to have their voices heard.”

McPherson, a former Gilbert school administrator, said it is vital for a school’s administration to tell students what they

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are doing to address a variety of problems, including teen suicide.

“If they don’t communicate with the kids, their perception is that they are doing nothing,” she said.

She also praised the youth commission.

“I think its No. 1. The kids will tell you what they need,” McPherson said. “Pre-

vention works. We don’t want to wait until a suicide occurs.”

Bourque said she is glad teen suicide is getting far more attention and is hopeful other teens can be helped.

“I am feeling a sense of hope and change.

It’s not about me,” Bourque said. “It’s defending the kids, keeping us alive.”

10

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Ducey proposes new funds for kids with disabilities

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

Gov. Doug Ducey is proposing new funds to help students with vision and hearing disabilities get a jump start on their reading skills.

In a speech Nov. 9, Ducey said everyone knows that the ability to read is “an invaluable skill.’’ He said that’s part of the reason he put money into this year’s budget to restore state funding for full-

in 2006 and killed five years later, is not in the cards. He said the money for that – estimated at $240 million – just isn’t there.

Gubernatorial press aide Daniel Scarpinato said he could not provide a dollar figure for the cost of what his boss is proposing for the students with vision and hearing issues. But he said it will be a “significant investment.’’

And while the goal is the same – to get children ready to read – the focus is sharply different than full-day kindergarten. Instead,

We want to support early intervention for the “ hearing impaired and the visually impaired children so these kids can be prepared to read, to learn and to be successful in school, just like every other child.

’’

– Gov. Doug Ducey

day kindergarten, albeit only for students at schools with the highest percentage of students in poverty.

This, the governor said, is a logical extension of that.

“We want to support early intervention for the hearing impaired and the visually impaired children so these kids can be prepared to read, to learn and to be successful in school, just like every other child,’’ the governor said.

But Ducey, speaking to reporters after his speech here, said restoration of statefunded full-day kindergarten for all, enacted

it is aimed at youngsters from birth to age 3.

Dawn Wallace, the governor’s education adviser, said children are tested at birth for hearing and vision acuity. If there are problems, she said, the state seeks to get help for the parents. Most of that goes through the Arizona Schools for the Deaf and the Blind.

But those schools in Phoenix and Tucson do not take children until age 3. In the interim, Wallace said they have 17 specialists who go out and work with families around the state several times a week to help them get what they need.

She said the average caseload for each of

Special to the San Tan Sun News

Gov. Doug Ducey says there is no money to restore all-day kindergarten in Arizona, but he is proposing additional funds for children under 3 years old who have vision and hearing disabilities that impede their ability to learn.

these 17 specialists is 24 children.

That, Wallace said, is too much to do what’s needed. More to the point, she said, is that the failure to intercede early dooms them to lifetime failure.

“How can you go to preschool if you can’t communicate with your parents or with your teacher?’’ she said.

“If you don’t help them learn how to

speak or use sign language, or you don’t help them with hearing aids, or you don’t help them with braille, by the time they go to school at 3 they’re not ready,’’ Wallace said.

“And so they fall behind.’’

The governor’s plan is to hire 21 additional specialists. Wallace said the extra staffers are necessary to ensure these children get what they need.

“These kids are visited maybe twice a month,’’ she explained. And the specialists not only are teachers but also ensure that the health issues and medical equipment needs of the children are met.

“So what we’re trying to do is increased the number of visits per child,’’ Wallace said.

“But we’re also trying decrease the number of kids every teacher goes to so that they can spend more time with those kids.’’

Ducey said what he is proposing is an outgrowth of his belief that the ability to read by the third grade is crucial.

“We’re working to ensure that more children and families are empowered by the gift of reading,’’ he said.

“We know what the statistics say when a child can read when they come out of third grade,’’ the governor continued, saying that in learning to read in the first three years allows children to “spend the rest of their life reading to learn.’’

Ducey said this budget request fits in the same category as the $10 million he got lawmakers to put into full-day kindergarten programs this budget year “with a focus on our low-income schools and neighborhoods.’’

“And we need to do more,’’ he said.

11

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COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Chandler lawmaker launches sex harassment probe in House

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

Allegations of sexual harassment at the Capitol were pushed into high gear early last week as House Speaker J.D. Mesnard announced he was launching “multiple investigations into reports of sexual harassment at the Legislature.’’

“All allegations of sexual harassment will be taken seriously in the House,’’ the

senator, came to her office, commented about her figure and asked her whether her breasts were real.

She said he also showed up at her hotel room with a six-pack of beer when both were at an out-of-state conference, and she cited an incident going back to 2011 in which, Ugenti-Rita said, Shooter said some “very inappropriate things to her,’’ to the point where she was so unnerved that she decided to write them down.

“ All allegations of sexual harassment will be taken seriously in the House.’’

– House Speaker J.D. Mesnard

Chandler Republican said in a prepared statement.

“A bipartisan team of investigators will be conducting thorough reviews of all allegations made,’’ he continued, promising the inquiry will expand “if more information is gathered.’’

The move comes on the heels of a Scottsdale lawmaker publicly accusing Rep. Don Shooter, R-Yuma, of having harassed her repeatedly going back for years.

Republican Rep. Michelle UgentiRita detailed three specific incidents for Capitol Media Services, including one where she said Shooter, at the time a

But the issue goes beyond Ugenti-Rita – and apparently beyond Shooter.

House Majority Whip Kelly Townsend, R-Mesa, said she has been “on the receiving end of both unwanted sexual advances by more than one person as well as intimidating behavior and retaliation by another in a position of power in years past.’’

“I was able to handle one such situation,’’ she said. But Townsend said she had to get the top House Republicans to intercede in another.

In both cases, she provided no names.

And Townsend said she has personally witnessed “sexist comments and

Capitol Media Servicet

Chandler legislator and House Speaker JD Mesnard is leading a crackdown on sexual harrassment

by Arizona lawmakers.

maltreatment’’ of Ugenti-Rita, though not

by Shooter.

Mesnard’s inquiry will not end there.

Shooter, in a response to UgentiRita’s comments, made his own

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MESNARD page 13

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MESNARD from page 12

House staffer.

Mesnard press aide Matt Specht said that relationship effectively was a littleguarded secret, with even the speaker being aware of the situation. But Specht said now that Shooter has raised the issue, it has to be investigated.

More shoes may drop.

Rep. Athena Salman, D-Tempe, filed her own complaint against Shooter about inappropriate conduct toward her. And Rep. Wenona Benally, D-Window Rock, said she “witnessed Rep. Shooter using suggestive and sexually inappropriate language in my presence.’’

And the Arizona Capitol Times reports that lobbyist Marilyn Rodriguez said Shooter made inappropriate advances when she was talking with him about legislation at a restaurant.

Ugenti-Rita’s initial allegations – before she spelled out who had allegedly harassed her – came on the heels of national publicity about incidents involving Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein and actor Kevin Spacey. That led to a flood of other complaints, not only against Weinstein but also others.

As to the decision to name Shooter, she acknowledged that the incidents are not new. But she told Capitol Media Services this seemed to be the right time to go public.

“I knew that there were other women out there,’’ she said. “And I knew that I had a responsibility to do something about it, for myself and for others.’’

Shooter would not comment about either Ugenti-Rita’s allegations against

him or his own about her.

Townsend noted that Mesnard, in the wake of Ugenti-Rita’s initial complaints – before she named names – put a written policy in place to deal with allegations of harassment. But she said more may be needed.

“It could definitely be fortified and made better in an effort to prevent such behavior,’’ she said. In fact, Townsend said she is crafting legislation to put any strengthened policy into law.

Some of the allegations against Shooter date back to when he was a senator.

But Senate President Steve Yarbrough said his chamber won’t be conducting its own probe. He said it’s a simple matter of the fact that the Senate’s power to discipline Shooter – assuming he is guilty of anything – ended when he ceased being a member of that chamber.

The allegations even got to a point where Gov. Doug Ducey felt compelled to point out that the executive branch of government, including his office, has its own policies.

“There’s zero tolerance of sexual harassment,’’ he said. “It has no place in the workplace, whether you’re in the public sector or the private sector.’’

Ducey noted that the Legislature is a separate and co-equal branch of government, with his office – and executive department policies – having no sway over what happens in the chambers or to its members. Instead, the governor said he supports Mesnard’s decision to investigate.

“Let’s get the facts and they can conduct next steps,’’ he said.

DRUNK DRIVER from page 7 understated and not one of those ‘look at me’ people,” said Klein.

Added Ropke: “She had a very supportive, loving husband who supported all her activities.”

And one member of the Mountain Park Community congregation said her husband would miss Mrs. Hilts “as he saw her smiling face every Sunday helping out in children’s ministry.”

Ropke also recalled Mrs. Hilts as a devoted mother who “was always concerned about academics” where her children were concerned.

The parent-teacher organizations at both Lagos Elementary, where her son attends school, and Akimel A-al Middle School, where her daughter is a student, reacted quickly to the news of Mrs. Hilts’ death.

Stella Klecka Lorenz of the Akimel PTO said both her group and the Lagos PTO have set up an account at Dream Dinners of Ahwatukee for anyone who wants to donate for meals sent to the family’s home for the next six months.

Dream Dinners will provide meals of the family’s choice assembled fresh and delivered each month. Donations are being accepted at the Lagos front office, at the Dream Dinners location or can be ordered online. Donations are being accepted by credit card by emailing contact info to tracy. zipay@dreamdinners.com.

Gift cards for other restaurants can be donated to the family and left at the Akimel front office.

Neighbors and runners also paid tribute to Mrs. Hilts, some admitting they only knew her from jogging.

13

One woman said her daughter knew the victim’s daughter and donated all her allowance to help the family.

Organizers of the memorial run said, “This tragedy has deeply touched the running community and this is a simple way for us to come together to demonstrate our support for her family.”

“I feel like I knew her…every run included seeing and running by Martha.

Every run. I am devastated,” one Lakewood jogger wrote on Facebook, stating he and Mrs. Hilts were members of the “4:30 a.m. club at Lakewood.”

Mrs. Hilts’ father-in-law and her husband went to the accident scene, where a memorial of flowers and other items quickly was erected. Her father-inlaw was quoted by one TV news station as saying, “We cry about it every 30 minutes, and that’s about all we can do and pray.

We came here to do our prayers.”

Ahwatukee runner Lori Worachek created a “Medals for Martha” campaign for all marathon runners.

“I met Martha’s husband and kids today while I was on my run,” said Worachek, who wrote Mrs. Hilts’ name on the back of both her calves for last weekend’s marathon.

“He told me that Martha ran an hour every day. I told him I am running the Phoenix Half Marathon this weekend and would it be OK if I gave my medal to his daughter who also loves running. He said his daughter would absolutely love that.

Then I thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be amazing if we could round up a bunch of medals to give this little girl. .. Anyone running in those races can donate their medal and we can deliver the pile of medals to this precious family.”

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COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Gateway Airport project would open up business to Mexico

BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY Staff

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is working with a private Mexican developer to create a 360-acre mixed-use business park adjacent to the airport that could turn into a preeminent destination for American exporters by bringing Mexican customs officers to the East Valley.

Those officers would pre-clear American cargo bound for Mexico – a draw for American companies that do business in Mexico.

Currently, only select airports in Mexico have customs officers on hand to inspect incoming goods, which restricts the number of airports American businesses can use when shipping goods into the country.

With Mexican customs officers on site, Gateway Airport could open up access to over a hundred additional airports in Mexico that do not have customs inspection services, according to information provided at the East Valley Partnership Aviation and Aerospace Committee’s October meeting.

Increased access to Mexico would appeal to companies like Amazon and potentially allow the online retail giant to expand its two-day shipping service to the Mexican market, said Roc Arnett, former president and CEO of the East Valley Partnership.

Earlier this year, the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority signed a

Special to the SanTan Sun News

A project like SkyBridge has been a goal of local development organizations since Williams Air Force Base reopened as a commercial airport in 1994.

memorandum of understanding with Mesa SkyBridge.

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GATEWAY from page 14 behind a similar project in Mexico called Sky Plus Logistics & Aerospace Park. That development – a nearly 200-acre project geared toward manufacturing and logistics companies – is under construction at Guanajuato International Airport.

Puente is alternatively referred to as development director and CEO of Sky Plus in reports from the Mexican manufacturing and export publication “Mexico Industry.”

Gateway Airport development’s connection to Mexico is a significant part of the proposed project as a portion would be set aside for Mexican and U.S customs facilities.

On Aug. 23, Kevin K. McAleenan, acting commissioner of the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, met with a Mexican trade representative in San Diego and agreed to a bilateral trade agreement.

A part of that agreement allows Mexican customs officers to work beside U.S. CBP officers in U.S. airports under a Unified Cargo Processing program, said Teresa Small, Customs and Border Patrol affairs liaison.

The Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority anticipates that the August decision will result in the relocation of Mexican customs officials from Laredo, Texas, to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport and that “this is a tremendous opportunity to increase cargo activity at Gateway Airport,” according to minutes from the board’s monthly meeting in September.

Small confirmed that the agency had received a request from the PhoenixMesa Gateway Airport Authority to

station Mexican customs officers with CBP officers at the airport. However, she stated that they are “just in talks” at the moment and no official decision has been made.

“It is not so much a real estate play as it is a logistics play,” Arnett said.

CBP officers and Mexican customs officers already work together at select borders in Arizona as part of the Unified Cargo Processing program. That program began in Nogales at the Mariposa Port of Entry in July 2016 and since has expanded to San Luis and Douglas, Small said.

The concept has resulted in a

for Arizona exports, accounting for 30 percent of all Arizona exports to foreign markets, according to Arizona-Mexico Economic Indicators from University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management.

Despite that impact on the state’s economy, Arizona accounted for only 6.5 percent of exports from border states to Mexico in 2016. That ranked ahead of New Mexico but well behind Texas (72.3 percent) and California (19.9 percent).

While Arizona is not likely to close that gap completely, the new

is a tremendous opportunity to increase “ thiscargo activity at Gateway Airport.”

– From the board’s monthly meeting in September

reduction in transaction costs for select businesses shipping cargo between the U.S. and Mexico, said William K. Brooks, CBP Tucson director of field operations, in a video prepared by the agency.

The program has resulted in a time savings of around three hours for qualified shipments passing through the border, Mexican Customs Commissioner Ricardo Treviño said in the video.

Arnett added companies could take advantage of the Foreign Trade Zone in the Mesa Gateway area to ship products into the U.S. for additional manufacturing and then send them to Mexico without paying additional taxes.

Mexico is the No. 1 foreign destination

development at Gateway Airport could help Arizona “get a larger fair share” of exports to Mexico, Arnett said.

The U.S. and Mexico Customs facilities accounts for only about a quarter of the proposed project, with the rest of the space reserved for commercial and industrial uses.

A majority of the development – 169 acres – would go toward warehouse and light industrial space.

The development, previously referred to as Gateway Aerospace Park, would also include a retail and hotel element at the entrance of the park that would cover approximately 11 acres.

It also would include 38 acres of office

space and 60 acres dedicated to airport uses, including a taxiway, detention basins, utilities, roadways and open spaces.

The memorandum calls for the airport to maintain ownership of the property and sign a 49-year lease with the developer.

Under the agreement, Mesa SkyBridge is responsible for building 100 percent of the “horizontal infrastructure” needed for the development. Horizontal infrastructure typically refers to things like roads, water and sewage lines and stormwater drains.

The vertical infrastructure, such as the buildings themselves, would be developed jointly by Mesa SkyBridge, PMGAA and “local and foreign partners” in the form of build-to-suit structures designed for specific tenants.

A project like SkyBridge has been a goal of local development organizations since Williams Air Force Base reopened as a commercial airport in 1994.

Arnett referred to it as a “25-year developing success” and noted that it is not the only proposed development that could draw major attention from local and national businesses.

Arizona State University is planning to develop a research complex similar to its existing Research Park in Tempe near the airport and is working with worldrenowned design firm Sasaki on the project, Arnett said.

He added that the university is about a month away from meeting with the city of Mesa about the infrastructure needs for the project.

– Reach Wayne Schutsky at 480-898-6533 or wschutsky@timespublications.com.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

SMALL BUSINESS from page 1 Cooking School, AR Workshop and Current Mood,” Kimble said “Small businesses employ almost 50 percent of all private sector workers. Helping them to prosper just promotes a strong economy.”

Photos by Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

Owner of d’Vine Gourmet Denise McCreery stands in front of her store in The Promenade at Fulton Ranch. Her business will have sales and give away food samples and mimosas on Nov. 25, which is Small Business Saturday.

Well-known stores Saba’s Western Wear and Sibley’s West: The Chandler and Arizona Gift Shop will have big sales on Nov. 25.

“We always have lots going on during Small Business Saturday,” Michelle Wolfe, co-owner of Sibley’s said. “We do giveaways and we usually have an early bird special and sales throughout the day.

It’s a fun time because we’re just so crazily busy. We want to reward the people who come to support small business with something fun on that day.”

Michelle, who co-owns the store with her husband, John Wolfe, said the business sells gift items from more than 200 different suppliers, all of whom live in Arizona. Sibley’s sells glass art, pottery, ceramics, candy, ornaments, books, kitchen supplies, spices, clothes, postcards and other merchandise for adults and children.

“We try to have something for everyone on your list,” Michelle said.

“They’re unique items that are not massproduced from local people. Many of them come and make their own deliveries. It’s literally a mom-and-pop operation. The people who are doing small businesses are your neighbors.

You’re supporting them, their families in the community. You’re contributing to the tax base. Then we buy locally because we live here. Every check I write goes to somebody in Arizona.”

Sibley’s also will ship items to people anywhere in the country. Some of the products sold in the brick-and-mortar store also can be bought through Sibley’s

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

d’Vine Gourmet sells a variety of chocolates and sweets. Customers can buy gift baskets with over 100 different choices, including ones filled with brownies, caramels, Arizona pistachios, chipotle pretzel raisin bark, chocolate bars and butter toffee popcorn.

website at sibleyswest.com.

Also in downtown Chandler, Shoe Thrill, 11 W. Boston St. will offer customers $25 off any purchases of $50 or more. Blue Planet Outdoors, 44 S. San Marcos Place, will give consumers a chance to enter a raffle for prizes when they buy anything. A Yeti Roadie 20 Cooler, valued at $200, will be given away.

Shoppers can also check out Ocotillo to grab some bargains as they look for holiday gifts. d’Vine Gourmet, 4955 S. Alma School

Road in The Promenade at Fulton Ranch, will have sales and give away food samples and mimosas on Nov. 25.

Several local vendors will be at the store, as well as an Amadio Farms peach truck. Customers will be able to lay a toss-the-wine-cork game to try to win prizes, get henna tattoos and listen to live music from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m..

“Small Business Saturday is kind of a big deal here,” d’Vine Gourmet owner see

SMALL BUSINESS page !7

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

SMALL BUSINESS from page 16 Denise McCreery said. “It’s tough because small businesses are seemingly having to work harder and harder to capture the attention of consumers. We do depend upon the loyalty of shoppers.

We understand that it’s easy to shop in your pajamas at a big-box store late at night. Think about the value that your dollar brings to the community when you shop local.”

Wine, art, candles, clothes and other items made in Arizona are sold at d’Vine Gourmet.

The store sells about 70 types of wine, many from family-owned and boutique wineries, along with gourmet foods, chocolates and sweets.

Customers can buy gift baskets with more than 100 different choices, including ones filled with brownies, caramels, Arizona pistachios, chipotle pretzel raisin bark, chocolate bars and butter toffee popcorn.

“What sets us apart from anybody in the state is that we have a kitchen inside our store,” McCreery said. “We make a whole line, almost everything – jellies, caramels, snack mixes, chocolate.”

Customers can watch employees in the kitchen with a glass wall making treats including the store’s Coyote Crunch. d’Vine also carries chocolate and candy from Arizona companies including Cerreta Candy Company and Cactus Candy Company. The store sells wine from wineries in the state and clothes

Kitchen fairy Sheila Kofahl makes Cinnamon Chocolate Churro Coyote Crunch in the kitchen at d’Vine Gourmet in Chandler. It’s one of many sweet treats made and sold at the locally owned business.

from Valley retailer State Forty Eight.

McCreery lives within walking distance of her store and most of her employees live within a three-mile radius of the shop.

“That’s very indicative of how important shopping local is,” she said.

“That cycle is so important. I love my neighborhood. A lot of shoppers might not know most mom-and-pop shops are online, too. They don’t have to go to Amazon for their gift basket needs. We hope that people will consider shopping local both brick-and-mortar and online.”

McCreery loves running into customers when she is shopping in the community and said the face-to-face contact at local stores can’t be beat.

“There’s nothing like that human touch,” she said. “It’s about that community, knowing who surrounds you.

You can talk to the person who made the item you’re buying or say, ‘That doesn’t sound like a good buy.’ I think we all need to band together to make sure customers shop local. A rising tide lifts all boats.”

Another business in The Promenade at Fulton Ranch, Mix Cooking School,

also focuses on food. The school offers cooking and baking classes and workshops for children and adults. While no specific specials are being offered Nov. 25, the studio is providing many holiday baking and cooking classes.

At 2 p.m., children and adults can take a Let’s Cook Together! Class, where they will make miniature lasagna cups, cheesy puff pastry pinwheels, autumn apple sauce and s’mores pie pops. The class costs $45 for an adult and child, and it’s designed for kids ages 4 to 10 to take with a parent or grandparent.

Mix Cooking School will get festive with a French Macarons Holiday Workshop, where students learn how to make the French cookies at 2 p.m. Nov. 26 and 2 p.m. Dec. 9. The class costs $45 per adult.

“I’m a huge believer in shopping locally,” Mix Cooking School owner Marcia Makoviecki said. “That’s the reason why we opened Mix Cooking School in Chandler. I myself love taking cooking classes. You had to drive at least 30 minutes to an hour to find any place. We felt like we wanted to give that opportunity to local people. I think all of us appreciate doing things and going to stores that are close to home.

“Mix Cooking School offers something unique. We’re not competing at all with all the big box stores.”

Makoviecki said people can buy gift certificates of any amount that can be used for workshops and classes at Mix Cooking School to give people as Christmas presents.

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The average mouth does not have room for the third molars, also known as “wisdom teeth,” to come in properly. These poorly positioned impacted teeth can cause many problems such as swelling, stiffness, pain and illness. The pressure from the wisdom teeth may move other teeth and disrupt the orthodontic of natural alignment of teeth. The most serious problem occurs when tumors or cysts form around the impacted wisdom tooth, resulting in the destruction of the jawbone and healthy teeth. It is now recommended that impacted wisdom teeth be removed early to prevent these problems.

Most commonly we remove wisdom teeth between the ages of 14 and 22 years whether they are causing problems or not. The procedure is technically easier and patients recover much quicker when they are younger. What is a relatively minor procedure at 20 can become quite difficult in patients as they get older. Also, the risk of complications increases with age and the healing process is slower. We utilize the latest technologies and techniques to make your procedure go smoother and your healing process faster.

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SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

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COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

19

Deal prevents new disability suits against local businesses disability community,’’ he said.

But attorney Peter Strojnik, who represented AID in many of the cases, said it is the disabled community that will be the loser.

He said the legal agreement, coupled with a change in law approved earlier this year by the Republican-controlled Legislature, throws new roadblocks in the path of those who depend on the disability law to ensure they have safe access to public facilities, including businesses.

And Strojnik took a verbal swat at Brnovich for saying the legal complaints filed last year were “frivolous’’ and calling them “copy-and-paste lawsuits’’ over issues that were “minor and easily fixable.’’

“There is no such thing as a technical violation,’’ Strojnik said. “It’s either a violation or it’s not.’’

For example, he said, the law spells out how much of a slope there can be on parking spots reserved for the disabled.

“Obviously, when a person with a wheelchair comes out, he’s just going to roll down on the street and get killed,’’ Strojnik said.

He also took exception to allegations made during legislative debate earlier this year that the lawsuits were about generating money rather than getting the problems fixed. Strojnik said AID is a nonprofit charity, with what it gained in settlements with offending businesses being used to help the disability

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

A deal between the Attorney General’s Office and a group advocating for the disabled will keep them from filing new lawsuits against Chandler and other Arizona businesses – at least in state court.

But an attorney who was involved in filing those lawsuits says this victory being claimed for businesses is a setback for those whom the Arizonans with Disabilities Act is supposed to protect.

The agreement, awaiting approval from Maricopa County Superior Court Judge David Talmante bars Advocates for Individuals with Disabilities from bringing new legal actions charging businesses with violating laws which require businesses to make that accommodations for the handicapped.

The group also will pay $25,000 to the Attorney General’s Office to be used to educate businesses about their obligations under the law as well as help create a fund for firms that don’t have the money to make immediate fixes.

It also means that AID will not appeal a ruling dismissing the more than 1,700 cases that AID had filed.

Attorney General Mark Brnovich called the settlement “a victory for Arizona consumers and small businesses.’’

“Arizona is not going to tolerate serial litigants who try to shake down small hardworking businesses by exploiting the

community.

“There never was intent to profit or make money,’’ he said.

Strojnik said the agreement not to pursue new state court lawsuits isn’t any sort of real concession for AID. He said it comes on the heels of state lawmakers earlier this year erecting new procedural barriers to future litigation.

Under the new law, someone alleging a violation under the Arizonans with Disabilities Act would have to give the business at least 60 days to resolve the problem.

Even after that, once a lawsuit is filed, the statute allows a judge to determine if the person complaining or the attorney is a “vexatious litigant’’ who files multiple cases. That would permit all the cases to be combined, a move that would save money for the defendants.

And the law prohibits a court from awarding civil penalties and compensatory damages in civil actions.

Sen. Kimberly Yee, R-Phoenix, said during debate the aim is to prevent situations where people find minor violations of the law, file suit – and then agree to drop the claim in exchange for a cash settlement. She said businesses settle because it’s cheaper than hiring an attorney for what could be expensive and extended litigation.

“I have a number of businesses that are (run by) friends that have been greatly affected by lawsuit and lawsuit threats ... where they have had to consider closing

their doors because of the literally thousands of dollars they have had to pay out in litigation costs,’’ she said.

But Sen. Martin Quezada, D-Glendale, objected to giving businesses more time to deal with problems he believes they should have fixed years ago.

“The Arizonans with Disabilities Act has been in place for 27 years,’’ he said during the debate, “27 years that every small business should have known to this point what they have to do in order to accommodate people with disabilities.’’

And he said those people are the losers with the change in law.

“These are people who are blind, these are people who are deaf, these are people who have a limiting disability so they have to use a wheelchair,’’ he said.

“They can’t access services, they can’t access these local businesses.’’

He also suggested that the change in the law actually will result in more businesses ignoring its basic requirements of accommodation.

Quezada said there’s no reason for a property owner to bring a site into compliance if there’s no risk of being sued. He he said once a claim is filed, a business could have up to six months to do what it should have done already.

Strojnik pointed out that nothing in the settlement or even the new Arizona law keeps AID or anyone else from pursing claims of violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act in federal court.

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Benefits, premium and member cost share may change on January 1 of each year. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. A licensed Humana sales agent will be present with information and applications. For accommodation of people with special needs at sales meetings, call 1-844-357-9120 (TTY: 711), 8 a.m.-8 p.m., seven days a week. Applicable to Humana Gold Plus (HMO) H2649-063. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries (“Humana”) do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Cost of kitten care ‘astronomical’ for rescue agencies

BY MADDY RYAN Cronkite News

Tiny meows echo through the room as volunteers in yellow smocks feed, weigh and record every kitten in the Arizona Humane Society’s Bottle Baby Intensive Care Unit.

When a rescue worker showed up at the nonprofit’s Phoenix facility with a cardboard crate in her hands on a recent Friday afternoon, a spokeswoman looked over and said, “Don’t bring them more kittens. They can’t (take them).”

The worker hesitantly replied, “Just one.”

From the time newborn kittens arrive at the ICU until they qualify for adoption, it costs the Arizona Humane Society an average of $1,149 per kitten, spokeswoman Bretta Nelson said.

“The cost for these little guys is astronomical,” Nelson said. “We don’t euthanize for space or resources, so these guys can stay as long as they want.”

The ICU takes care of kittens that range in age from newborns – which require 24-hour care – to older kittens that need socialization while they gain weight in preparation for adoption.

Between staffing, medical and food supplies, it costs the Arizona Humane Society nearly $200,000 to operate the ICU yearly, according to its website.

The process of caring for these kittens is extensive.

Workers place new kittens in a kennel outfitted with blankets, food, water and a heating source – similar to the warmth of their mother. One by one, the workers weigh and record the kittens’ information

Cronkite News

Kitties like this little guy cost rescue agencies more than $1,100 a year to care for, and the number of abandoned kittens is escalating in the region.

on charts. Workers feed the kittens formula and record their weight again and then stimulate the kittens to help them relieve themselves, just as their mother would have done.

They must repeat the feeding and weighing process every couple of hours.

“You can always tell when they’re getting hungry again because they start to get really loud,” Nelson said.

While many volunteers in the ICU work four-hour shifts, many employees such as Simone Kalham work an 11-hour shift.

“The night shift is very busy. We are the only team at the (society) that works 24/7,” Kalham said in an email. “I am part of a dedicated team, saving the lives of kittens that otherwise would have no chance. We cannot save every kitten, but every one we do save is a positive impact.”

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In 2016, the ICU cared for nearly 1,700 kittens, and it has a capacity of 60 kittens at a time.

“Anything over that we really can’t care for them the way we should be able to,” Nelson said. “So right now, with us being over 80, we are over capacity and can’t take any more in from the public.”

The facility has more than 500 cats total. Because the kittens need so much extra care, the nonprofit started a “kitnapping” campaign to reduce the number of kittens people bring into the facility.

This social campaign urges people who find litters to avoid “kit-napping” them by removing the kittens from the care of their mother, even if the mother isn’t around.

“The campaign helps us to not only better manage the intake of kittens coming in, but also helps give kittens

better one-on-one care from good Samaritans rather than being one of several kittens here at the shelter,” spokesman Brad Faye said in an email.

“Not to mention the fact that it reminds people that the best way to ensure the survival of these kittens is to keep them with their mother.”

Many of the kittens brought into the Arizona Humane Society are too young to fend for themselves – in comes the Bottle Baby ICU. “Even with the amazing facility that we have, the survival rate is not that good because they need to be with their mothers,” Nelson said. “That’s the best way for them to survive.”

If there is no sign of the mother, the Arizona Humane Society encourages “care-in-place” tactics. Caring in place requires feeding and care for the newborn kittens at home. The organization provides free kitten care kits.

The kits include formula, bottles, feeding syringes and a heating source.

“We have received 53 calls (this year) regarding the care kits we offer, which has led to 175 kittens/mothers being cared for outside of our shelter,” Faye said in an email. “These kits help caretakers provide for the kitten for up to eight weeks, at which point they can be brought in for spay/neuter services.”

The Arizona Humane Society provides tutorials for care-in-place services on its website at azhumane.org.

“You can go through an online orientation, and it’s super quick. You can do it at home, on a Saturday morning in your pajamas,” Nelson said.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

23

Obamacare premiums may drop in Arizona, study says

BY JOEL T. VERNILE Cronkite News

WASHINGTON – Arizona is one of the few states expected to see a decrease in average premium costs during the Affordable Care Act open enrollment period that opened last week – if consumers can figure out how to sign up.

The window to enroll has been cut in half, to 45 days, from previous years, hours have been shortened and outreach and advertising budgets have been cut, in what critics are calling a Trump administration campaign to “sabotage” Obamacare after Congress was unable to kill it.

President Donald Trump indicated his opinion during a Cabinet meeting last month, saying, “Obamacare is finished. It’s dead. It’s gone.”

But supporters of the health care program say it’s still very much alive and are encouraging people to be more aware of the enrollment process.

“People need to actively enroll,” said Allen Gjersvig, director of navigator and enrollment services at Arizona Alliance for Community Health Centers. If they don’t, they could get stuck with a plan they don’t like or face tax penalties next year, he said.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding this year’s open season – which experts say could lead to declines in enrollment for a second straight year nationally – there is potential good news for Arizona, which is one of three states that is expected to see a drop in average premium costs next year.

An analysis by Avalere predicts that

the average premium cost for a “silver” plan in Arizona will fall by 6 percent in 2018, after getting pummeled with a 116 percent average increase in premiums last year. That number was frequently cited by Trump as proof of the failings of Obamacare.

Gjersvig said 2017 was a “correction year” for the state, which had some of the lowest costs in the country previously.

While Arizona’s costs have leveled off, the Kaiser Family Foundation said other states will see premium increases ranging from 7 percent to 38 percent next year.

Kaiser blamed the increases in part on actions by the Trump administration to rein in the Affordable Care Act. Among those changes is a 45-day enrollment period, down from 90 days in the first four years of the program,

and a 12-hour blackout every Sunday from midnight to noon when the online enrollment system will be taken down for maintenance.

The administration also has cut funding for marketing and for program navigators, the assistants who helped people work through the enrollment process and who have been called “critical” to getting many people signed up.

In addition to changes directly affecting enrollment, the White House last month said it was ending subsidies to insurance companies that help them offer lower premium rates to low-income patients – low rates that are required by law. But eliminating the Cost Sharing Reduction payment, advocates worry that the cost for low-income plans will just be passed on to other customers.

Fourth graders flock to Chandler’s WET Water Festival COURTESY OF THE CITY OF CHANDLER

More than 950 4th graders from the Chandler Unified School District participated in Chandler’s 12th annual Project WET Water Festival at Tumbleweed Park on Nov. 3.

The interactive community water festival is part of a curriculum unit focused on water stewardship and STEM education and teaches youngsters about Arizona’s water resources and water in the earth system.

Students engaged in learning about

the groundwater system, the water cycle, watershed management, and water conservation technology through exploration and inquiry. Volunteers from the City of Chandler, Intel Corporation, Arizona State University, Americorps, Wilson Engineers, Arizona Project WET’s (APW) Water Educators and other community members facilitated lessons and engaged students.

“The Arizona Water Festival program combines effective teacher professional development, direct student outreach

that extends classroom learning and community engagement,” said director Kerry Schwartz.

“Bringing these components together is the hard work that APW does to achieve STEM literacy and water stewardship education in Arizona’s communities.”

Arizona Project WET is a program of the Water Resources Research Center and Arizona Cooperative Extension, both part of the University of Arizona College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

It is recognized by the Project WET

MODEL HOME

GRAND OPENING

Foundation for excellent state-specific water education resources, including the Arizona Conserve Water Educators’ Guide, School Water Audit Program and Water Scene Investigations.

For more information on Chandler’s event, contact the City’s Water Conservation Office at 480-782-3580.

For information on the Arizona Water Festival program, contact Julie Hasty at juliehasty@email.arizona.edu or visit arizonawet.arizona.edu/programs/ arizona_water_festival.

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SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

25

Lights party kicks off regional holiday attraction

BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA Contributor

Chandler motorcycle riders will be helping to kick off one of the region’s biggest holiday attractions.

They’ll be heading to Ahwatukee on Nov. 25, for the “Ahwatukee’s Biggest Outdoor Festival” – the Festival of Lights Kick-Off Party. Specifically, some will be part of the Lighted Motorcycle Parade that escorts Santa to the party at dusk.

The Festival of Lights Kick-Off, always held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, marks the illumination of the Million White Light Display in the saguaros, palo verde trees and ocotillos that fill the median of Chandler Boulevard from 24th Street to Desert Foothills Parkway and will be ablaze through New Year’s Day. The free-admission festival runs noon-8 p.m. at Desert Foothills Park on the corner of Chandler Boulevard and Desert Foothills Parkway, Ahwatukee.

Festival goers are provided a host of activities, including the Marketplace Street Fair with more than 100 vendors, two entertainment stages, a Kid Zone with inflatables, carnival rides and games, a vintage car show, a variety of foods from 20 restaurants and food trucks, and beer-and wine-tavern.

As in years past, the family-friendly festival offers free admission. Rides and inflatables for children are available for $20 for an all-day wristband, or 50 cents individual ticket.

There are more than 20 restaurants/food trucks plying their wares and a large beer/

SantTan Sun News file photo

The Festival of Lights Kick-Off Party in Ahwatukee draws thousand sof people from the region.

wine tavern with televised college football games, two live entertainment stages, a vintage car show, pet parade and more than 100 vendors at the Marketplace Street Fair.

The Festival of Lights, a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization, was founded in 1995 when three area women residents decided to continue the festive-season Holiday lights along Chandler Boulevard that developer Del Webb has initiated, and then discontinued.

Registration for the pet parade can be made on the FOLAZ.org Kick-Off page. Entries also will be accepted as walk-ups.

“This year we’re also accepting donations for the Tempe-based, nonprofit Lost Our Home Pet Rescue, and bringing animals that are available for adoption,” said Wunder, who professes a deep love of animals.

Pete Argenziano of Chandler, chairman of the Foothills Chapter of the Harley Owners Group (HOG), is taking a hiatus this year from the Lighted Motorcycle Parade after an

October heart attack.

But his girlfriend Jeannie Van Lew is still involved along with approximately 30 other chapter members.

In years past, Argenziano has ridden a 2011 H-D Road Glide Ultra and a 2010 H-D Road King. He currently owns a 2015 H-D CVO Road Glide Ultra.

Decorating his bikes has always been a fun part of the event for him. His Harley’s were lit with battery-powered strings of lights, reindeer antlers on his windshield, and a large, stuffed Santa bear on his luggage rack.

“This would be my fifth year, and it’s a lot of fun,” said Argenziano, who will be a parade spectator cheering his fellow chapter members and sweetheart Jeannie Van Lew. “It’s such a fun, family-oriented event. And I’m glad to see they’ve extended the hours because it used to be they’d close up right after we got there and rode through. Now we can have a little time to enjoy it, too.”

This is the 14th year for Van Lew, also a Chandler resident and HOG member, who will be riding her 2012 H-D Street Glide that’s decorated with different colored batteryoperated lights every year. It always includes a large snowman as her rider.

“When I first joined Chandler HarleyDavidson HOG Foothills Chapter in 2003, I had no idea what the Festival of Lights was all about,” she wrote in an email from Bonaire, an island off the coast of Venezuela where she was diving with the Mesa’s El Mar Diving Center. “Bill Hazlett explained at one of our chapter meetings that riders decorated their bikes and then rode as a group.”

Van Lew recalled when the decorated motorcycles would parade from the top of Thunderhill Place.

“We’d turn on the Christmas lights decorating our bikes and circle down the hill, across Chandler to Desert Foothills Park where we’d ride through almost a tunnel of adults and children who would be oohing and ahhing the motorcycles lit up like mobile Christmas Trees, as well as Santa who would ride in the sidecar of one of our members,” she wrote.

“The Festival of Lights Motorcycle Parade has become an exciting and integral part of my and my family’s Thanksgiving weekend.

My children, and now their children, are among the throng of onlookers, and once we arrive and part the bikes, we make it a family evening together.”

Riders interested in joining the Lighted Motorcyle Parade can meet at the Foothills Baptist Church at Chandler Boulevard and 21st Street at 5:15 p.m. No registration is necessary.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

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SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

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Building a playground

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More than 200 volunteers from the City of Chandler, Foresters Financial and KaBOOM! gathered Nov. 11 to create a new playground at Gazelle Meadows Park in Chandler. 1)Tanner Bennett makes some adjustments on a playset; 2) volunteers included, from left: Alma Giachino, Jasmine Galloway, Brenda Henrdix, Suzy Kirshling, Adrian Trice, Jana Hawkins with Rob Arends and Jim Gibbs behind them; 3) Suzi Kirschling and Rob Arends work on a fence; 4) Michael Beagle of the Chandler Chamber helps build a slide; 5) Christine Melancon helps move 4,000 square feet of safety surfacing; 6)Bill Steadhelps move some sand; 7) Francesco Lopez steadies a girder; 8) Jeff Larsen lugs some equipment; and 10) John Anguiana mans a drill. Foresters has invested more than $13 million with KaBOOM! to build ovver 140 playgrounds like this across the country. The park itself is 15 years old and city officials said the playground needed an update.

Photos by Staff Photographer Kimberly Carrillo

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COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

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Around Chandler Suspect still sought by police in 2006 Chandler killing

Chandler police are still seeking a suspect in the Aug. 23, 2006, shooting death of 20-year-old Bradley Eaton in his home at 2711 West Shannon Drive.

Shortly after Bradley’s murder, three suspects were identified; 18-year-old Joseph Woodard, 17-year-old Sergio Acosta, and 20-year-old Juan Acosta. Joseph and Sergio Acosta were arrested and convicted, but Juan Acosta has yet to be apprehended.

While Acosta has family in Phoenix, investigators believe he fled to Mexico after the murder. In 2009, detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging him with murder and robbery. Mexican officials validated Juan’s arrest warrant in 2015.

The suspect also goes by the name Juan Acosta-Wong and now is 31 years old.

Anyone with information should contact police at 480-782-4130 or Silent Witness at 480-948-6377. Silent Witness is offering a reward up to $5,000 for information that leads to his arrest. __________________________________

Annual arts quilt exhibit begins at Chandler Center for the Arts

For more than two decades, the annual Art Quilts exhibit at the Chandler Center for the Arts Gallery has inspired and captured the hearts of devoted attendees from across Arizona.

This year’s show, Art Quilts: XXII, features 23 multimedia pieces created by 21 artists. The bold colors, textures and patterns used by the artists in this year’s

exhibition were inspired by the phrase “as close to the edge as I can go.”

Sandra Branjord, quilt artist and exhibition juror, said, “Some of the artists used introspection to make work that defined themselves as creative beings and others used content to make a very big personal statement.

Many used color and form to go outside of their box. They made my job as a juror exciting and edgy.”

Art Quilts: XXII runs through Jan. 5 at the Center for the Arts Gallery, 250 N. Arizona Ave. The gallery is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Information: chandlercenter.org. __________________________________ Seton Catholic Preparatory

Robson Library offers drum circle, other programs through Nov. 30

In Washington, D.C., to receive the school’s Blue Ribbon Award were, from left, Seton Catholic Preparatory Principal Vctor Serna, retired principal Pat Collins and assistant principal David Sorkin.

Robson Library, 9330 E. Riggs Road, Sun Lakes, will offer a drumming circle and other programs in the coming weeks.

At 9:30 a.m. today, Saturday, Nov. 18, books, songs, action-rhymes, flannelboards, crafts and more activities developmentally appropriate for ages 3-6 will be offered.

At 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 20, Storytime for Grownups will feature a mystery short story or two. People can bring a lunch or snack.

The HealthRHYTHMS Drumming Circle is at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 21.

Drum circles enhance self-realization, reduce tension, anxiety and stress, result in a positive medical impact, and release emotions. No experience necessary and all instruments provided. Age 18 and over and regiustration is limited to 30 people.

At 1 p.m. Nov. 29, “Music of the Native American Flute” – which is limited to 100 people with seating beginning at 12:45 p.m. – will feature Ken Bogart playing music of the Native American flute in honor of National American Indian Heritage Month.

He is the director of the Arizona Flute circle, founding member of Tuesday’s Flute group, Native American flute instructor and active member of the World Flute Organization.

At 5 p.m. Nov. 30, the adult craft program will focus on holiday cards. All supplies are provided and included for this program. Registration is required.

Information/registration: 602-652-

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OrthoArizona, a private orthopedic practice in Chandler, has added Dr. Caleb Behrend, a fellowship-trained, boardcertified spine surgeon.

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SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

COMMUNITY NEWS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

29

Around Chandler of Chandler, Marx Pro Productions and Murphy’s Law Irish Pub. Inforrmation: downtownchandler.org. __________________________________

AROUND from page 27 pain and reducing disability from spinal diseases. His residency was in complex spine surgery and spinal trauma at the Rothman Institute at Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals in Philadelphia. In addition to practicing medicine, Behrend has served as faculty at Virginia Tech School of Medicine and Research Institute and teaches at Clemson University. __________________________________

Jazz singer Laurie Fagan to perform at Ginger Monkey Nov. 29

Two Basha grads complete Air Force basic training

Two 2017 graduates of Basha High School have completed basic training at Joint Baser San Antonio-Lackland in Texas.

U.S. Air Force Reserve Airmen 1st Class Havannah M. Burnes and Connor Bayer graduated from basic military training after completing an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and other skills.

Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Burnes is the daughter of Ron L. and Shannon D. Burnes of Chandler.

Bayer is the son of Michelle L. and Michael J. Bayer of Chandler. __________________________________

Family Flicks coming next month to downtown farmers market The Downtown Chandler Community

Special to SanTan Sun News

Basha High grad Havannah M. Burnes recently completed basic training with the Air Force.

Partnership will host Family Flicks at 6 p.m.

Dec. 21 as the Farmers Market begins winding down following a 3 p.m. start.

The free movie is “Elf” and attendees can enjoy a visit with Santa with complimentary photography, free hot cocoa, popcorn for purchase, Christmas carolers and a perfect picture spot with a giant sleigh in the newly renovated parklet on the corner of Commonwealth Avenue and San Marcos Place. The market will feature additional craft vendors with last-minute holiday gifts.

Guests are asked to bundle up and bring their own blankets and chairs.

Sponsors for the event include the City

SanTan Sun News Publisher Emeritus Laurie Fagan of Chandler is a woman of many talents.

She’s an author as well as a singer.

Fagan will demonstrate her singers’ chops when she performs with Soundscape 5:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 29, at the Ginger Monkey, 135 W. Ocotillo Road, Chandler. It’s in the Fulton Ranch Town Center at Ocotillo and Queen Creek roads.

Fagan wll perform a variety of jazz standards.

Information: 480-802-6659, gingermonkeyaz.com and lauriefagan.com. _________________________________

Sun Lakes Arts and Crafts group holding annual fall show Nov. 25

The Sun Lakes Arts and Crafts Association is planning its annual fall show 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Nov. 25 with over 50 vendors showcasing their handiwork at Sun Lakes Country Club Phase 1, 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes.

Admission is free and open to the public. “Craft shows are a great place to find unique Christmas gifts while at the same time supporting local artists and purchasing American-made items,” the club said in a release.

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Assistance League plans holiday gift idea preview event

A festive holiday preview event will offer the best of the holiday decorations, clothing and housewares at the Assistance League of East Valley thrift shop, 2326 N. Alma School Road, Chandler, 4-7 p.m. Nov. 20.

An admission fee of $10 that will help the all-volunteer group dress 7,000 schoolchildren this year. There will be carolers and treats. Information: 480-7921600 or assistanceleagueeastvalley.org. __________________________________

La Petite operator wins national award for healthier America

Learning Care Group, which operates the La Petite Academy in Chandler, recently was awarded the 2017 Partner of the Year Award from the Partnership for a Healthier America.

It recognized the company’s extensive work in prioritizing healthier practices in the daily lives of young children.

La Petite Academy offers the Grow Fit healthy lifestyle initiative and has implemented PHA standards aligning with the Let’s Move! Child Care goals for physical activity, food, beverages, infant feeding, screen time and parent engagement.

It has reduced fat and sugar by eliminating fried foods and juice; enhanced the daily menu to include over 50 fruits and vegetables and more than 30 multicultural offerings; and found ways to keep the children active each day, such as with dance breaks to get re-energized for learning.

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Business

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Leidan Mitchell stylists have plenty to cheer about SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF There are not many businesses that so intimately touch the people they serve every day as a salon and spa.

And there’s only one that makes sure the Arizona Cardinals’ cheerleaders look Erin Essert and Jacki Tatman, partners and owners of Leidan Mitchell Salon and Spa in Chandler, put together a special team of stylists to care for hair of the Cards’ approximately 30 cheerleaders.

“Our team is about that big,” said Tatman. “We ask one hairstylist to donate services to one cheerleader for the year.

The cheerleaders receive their haircuts and color services at no charge, and if they have hair extensions, they receive a deeply discounted rate.”

The Leidan Mitchell squad does four things for the cheerleaders.

Besides the hair cuts, color and extension work, the stylists host a makeover session for the rookies, prep them at the stadium for every home game and host a photoshoot at the salon in June. A video from that shoot is at leidanmitchell.com.

“It was super-fun to be able to style the girls and have their photos done under the same roof,” Tatman said. “At this event, we were able to involve some of our younger stylists to help, hoping they will eventually join our team.”

Three stylists led by 26-year-veteran Joelene Cook go to the stadium for the home games, arriving four hours ahead of kickoff.

“It is so exciting for us to get to see all our hard work come together, and

“Together we can accomplish things that alone we never could.’

client deserves nothing less.”

Tatman, owner-manager at Leidan

Special to SanTan Sun News

The Arizona Cardinals’ cheerleaders posed for a group shot after getting their hair styled by a special team of stylists at Leidan Mitchell Salon in Chandler. Owner-manager Jacki Tatman said her stylists also get the cheerleaders ready at the stadium before home games.

another one of the many favorite things of being a part of the Arizona Cardinals,” said Cook, explaining that some of the cheerleaders, particularly rookies, go for “big changes” in their appearance when consults begin in May. “Once everyone is all set for the season with their look, we get to do a photo shoot, usually in the beginning of June, for

Mitchell and Essert, owner-stylist, hold their staff accountable for their career growth and success of their independent business within their salon.

They’ve fostered hundreds of businesses within the Chandler salon and two others in the Valley over the past 17 years.

“During the past nine years, our

Special to SanTan Sun News

These professionals greet patrons at the front desk of Leidan Mitchell in Chandler

“It’s absolute mayhem, but it’s incredible fun and exciting and so worth it when they get to see the team on the Jumbotron. They display our logos on the Jumbotron, too, which is a huge coup for us,” Tatman said.

After the game starts, the stylists are done for the day, and they leave a kit for the cheerleaders to touch up if time permits.

Although the stylists don’t get seats, they often meet friends or family to watch the game.

Cook calls the assignment “a great experience.”

“These beautiful and talented women and their amazing head coach actually make our job quite easy,” said Cook, whom Tatman describes as a “very dedicated football enthusiast.”

the posters that they hand out to all the fans,” Cook added. “It is always fun to see all our hard work come together on the poster.”

Tatman is currently working on a plan to get a signed picture of each cheerleader to post at the hair stations so each stylist’s clients know about their involvement.

“It’s a bragging right, and these things are priceless for our staff members in building their businesses,” she explained.

Since opening in 2008, the salon has maintained a belief that “through hard work, continuing education and community involvement, our staff gains the skills to offer their clients the highest technical standard,” said Tatman. “We believe today’s

Credit

Veteran stylist Joelene Cook heads the Leidan Mitchell team that preps the cheerleaders.

business has evolved to include a number of educational opportunities for our staff, enabling them to offer a wider range of services and a higher technical standard for their clients,” Tatman added.

Earlier this year, Leidan Mitchell partnered with Phoenix Fashon Week.

Sponsoring Contemporary Night, the Leidan Mitchell Team went to work prepping 70 models for 10 shows in one night.

“We worked from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.,” said Tatman. Taking on a sponsorship of this magnitude could not be done without the support of their staff, she said.

Leidan Mitchell also provides makeovers to ladies from the Fresh Start Women’s Foundation at its Model Citizen salon in Phoenix. “This is part of our assistant training program and also allows us to give back to the community that has supported us,” Tatman explained.

“Most of our successful stylists were assistants at one time, so passing along their knowledge and skills helps to develop those just out of beauty school and instill in them the standards we hold dear. We are training the next generation of Leidan Mitchell stylists,” she added.

Before celebrating their nine-year anniversary in September, the owners took on a significant makeover of their 5,200-square-foot salon at 2177 W. Queen Creek Road, in Chandler’s Ocotillo community.

“Being in the downtown Ocotillo development, we chose to bring the Santa Barbara look into the salon that is so nicely done on the outside,” Tatman said.

The inside of the salon was updated to reflect a more modern Mexican look, with some global influences as well. They departed from yellow, green and blue throughout to a crisp linen with splashes of color on the walls to match the Mexican tile work.

New furniture was moved into the waiting area, and the owners added a second waiting area, reworked the retail area, installed new lighting fixtures and changed shampoo bowls for a more comfortable setup. The salon now provides an more soothing atmosphere for clients seeking services for hair, nail, skin, makeup, massage and retail needs.

Information: Leidan Mitchell Salon and Spa, 2177 W. Queen Creek Road. Chandler, 480-857-4200; Leidan Mitchell Salon and Spa, 4340 E. Indian School Road, 602522-2050; Model Citizen Salon, 4236 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, 602-296-0909. leidanmitchell.com, insta/facebook: leidanmitchell.modelcitizen

BUSINESS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

31

Local YMCA branch shifts gears with new cycle studio SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

The local branch of one of the biggest human service nonprofit organizations in the state added the modern cycle studio last month.

At the revamped cycle studio members will find 19 new, IC7 indoor cycles by Life Fitness. The IC7 cycles offer a twostage drivetrain, as well as a computer with a full-color, self-powered integrated screen offering a front LED display.

“We’re excited to launch a new state-ofthe-art cycle studio featuring next-generation indoor cycles,” said Garrett Brolsma, district executive director for the Chandler/Gilbert and Tempe Family YMCAs. “The Chandler/Gilbert YMCA gives its branch members and community another health option, allowing an excellent low-impact cardiovascular exercise that can challenge users of all fitness levels,” he said.

Besides the higher-tech cycles and new studio, the Chandler/Gilbert branch has added an interactive program that will let users take virtual rides, compare user statistics and complement a wearable device with their bike.

“We’re looking forward to building a cycling community with regular weekend rides throughout our community, volunteer and enjoy social events together,” Brolsma said.

Cycling classes are offered and new spin cycle classes will be provided at the Chandler/Gilbert Y six days a week.

Members can take the cycling classes

in the morning and evening Monday through Friday, as well as Saturday mornings at the Chandler/Gilbert Y, 1655 W. Frye Road. Children as young as 12 years old will be able to take the cycling classes if their parents attend with them.

The Valley of the Sun YMCA is celebrating its 125th birthday this year.

The YMCA services communities in Maricopa County, Pinal County, Prescott, Flagstaff and Yuma with over 250 programs and 26 social services at its statewide facilities.

Financial help is available for membership costs for those who qualify. The YMCA’s goal is to offer every member a chance to aim higher and improve their lives, as well as the lives of people around them.

By focusing on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the YMCA’s mission is to inspire lasting and positive social change. Information: valleyymca.org.

Photos courtesy of Valley of the Sun YMCA

Above: Valley of the Sun YMCA members Lisa O’Brien and Omari Dickens check to see where they are ranked on a screen at the grand opening of the modern cycle studio at the Chandler/ Gilbert Family YMCA. Right: Valley of the Sun YMCA members Roy Yates, left, and Scott Pius give the modern, new cycles at the Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA a spin.

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32

BUSINESS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Getting hairy can support a cause this month SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Men are getting a little incentive from a Chandler company to grow their beards and mustache during this “No Shave November.”

No-Shave November is a nonprofit, web-based organization dedicated to increasing cancer awareness and raising money to support cancer prevention, education and research.

People are encouraged to let their hair grow and forego shaving, instead using the money they would have spent on shaving and grooming to support cancer prevention, education and assist anyone fighting the disease.

Wet Shaving Products, based in Chandler, this month is donating 20 percent of all beard oil and mustache wax sales to the Southwest Prostate Cancer Foundation.

“I want to donate a portion of the proceeds from my beard and mustache products because I want to support

everyone who is participating in “Movember” awareness campaigns,” Wet Shaving Products founder and owner Lee Tyau said. “It is important for us to continue to fight all cancers until a cure is found and we can eliminate this disease, because cancer touches everyone and it strikes randomly. We need to band together as a species and find a cure.”

Wet Shaving Products’ beard oil absorbs within the first minute of applying. The company says men do not need to wash their hands if they use this oil and it leaves beards smelling and feeling great.

The oil reportedly stops beard itch and dandruff, and it penetrates down to the skin to soothe and moisturize dry skin. The ingredients in it are jojoba oil, avocado oil, apricot kernel oil, grapeseed oil and fragrance, and it’s vegan-friendly.

The mustache wax conditions while it holds. It does not have any filler ingredients in it and Wet Shaving Products says it has oils designed to make

Photos courtesy of Wet Shaving Products

Above: Wet Shaving Products’ beard oil reportedly absorbs easily and quickly, within the first minute of applying. This month, the company is going to donate 20 percent of all beard oil and mustache wax sales to the Southwest Prostate Cancer Foundation.

Left: When customers buy Wet Shaving Products’ mustache wax and beard oil this month, they will help support cancer prevention, education and assistance to cancer survivors.

men’s handlebars feel excellent.

The ingredients include beeswax, shea butter, jojoba oil, avocado oil, apricot kernel oil and grapeseed oil.

Wet Shaving Products operates an office and manufacturing facility at 6505 W. Frye Road. Information: wetshavingproducts.com.

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BUSINESS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

33

SanTan Brewing’s winter menu pairs beer with big flavors

BY NIKI D’ANDREA Staff

SanTan Brewing Company founder Anthony Canecchia enthuses about beer the way chefs discuss food, right down to talking about how “the terroir” of a hop affects the flavor of beer.

It makes sense – brewing beer is, after all, a cooking process. And like fine wine, the best beer is meant to be enjoyed with food.

To that end, Canecchia and his team have assembled suggested food and beer pairings on SanTan’s seasonal menu. And the crown on it is the brewery’s Winter Warmer, a dessert beer that will be officially released on November 15.

But before dessert, there are some starters to consider. Those who, like Cannechia and co., consider alcohol an appetizer can start with the StrataBlaster

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IPA, a juicy citrus beer that gets the palate tingling for the first course.

The first course is salad, but don’t start yawning yet. This is the “Power Salad,” packed with quinoa, chopped spinach, shaved red onion, hominy, scallions, black beans and sunflower seeds, steeped in sweet and savory chipotle vinaigrette.

It will make you see salad in a whole new light, especially paired with SanTan’s popular MoonJuice IPA, which brings a hint of tropical fruit to the table.

Pizza lovers will fall for the pesto chicken pizza bulging with mushrooms and paired with SanTan Hefeweizen – an authentic, Bavarian-style wheat beer that’s the most banana- and clove-tasting craft beer being made in Arizona right now.

But the best beer pairing at SanTan Brewing Company – maybe anywhere – is the pork enchiladas with Devil’s Ale. The tortillas for the enchiladas were a little tough, but that was the only negative to the dish.

The shredded pork was tender and flavorful, and played well with the cotija cheese, green chile cream sauce, pico de gallo, cheeses, rice, beans and even the fried egg on top.

A sip of Devil’s Ale – an American pale ale brewed with Cascade, Centennial and Simcoe hops – after a forkful of pork lends a rich mouthfeel and brings out the sharpness of the cheeses and the slight spiciness of the pork.

And at the end of the night, there’s SanTan Brewing Company’s Winter Warmer. This is the first specialty beer ever

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Above: Pork enchiladas pair perfectly with SanTan Devil’s Ale. Left: San Tan Devil’s Ale. Right: SanTan Brewing Company founder Anthony Canecchia talks about his company’s brewing process.

brewed at SanTan, and it’s definitely something special. It’s bursting with the taste of 10 pounds of fresh ginger from Lee Lee Market.

That’s right – 10 pounds of the root went into this brew, which also boasts big caramel and roasted malt flavors.

The brewers added 10 gallons of Arizona orange blossom honey to sweeten the sting of the ginger, resulting in an eminently drinkable beer that tastes like liquid gingerbread. Not coincidentally, the drink is served at the restaurant with a small plate of delicious, chewy homemade ginger cookies.

This strong ale is darker than the night sky without Rudolph’s nose and packs a potent 9.5 ABV, so it’s best to sip – not chug – this one, preferably near a fireplace.

Information: 8 S. San Marcos Place, Chandler; 480-917-8700, santanbrewingcom.

BUSINESS 34

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Legendary EV brownie bakery fine-tuning its image

BY RALPH ZUBIATE Managing Editor

As the holiday season begins, so do the gift deliveries to home and office.

One package familiar around the East Valley is the purple box filled with Fairytale Brownies, with chocolate chips, walnuts or cream cheese, among other varieties.

But now, that package has a different look, just in time for the Tempe company’s 25th birthday.

A big tan box with bright green spots announces “Brownies by Fairytale.”

“We just went for it,” co-founder Eileen Spitalny said of the new branding. “We’re crazy brownie entrepreneurs. We decided that we can push that we are the brownie experts, being around for 25 years.”

The company’s name isn’t changing, but its focus is.

“This is a new look and energy and vibe, so we stand out,” she said. “People are used to Fairytale Brownies. We want them to take notice again, by being attractive and exciting. We have kind of modified the logo before, but this is a whole new look coming at you.”

The company’s rebrand, including a complete digital makeover, new packaging and new mail catalogs, will be finished next fall. It will cost Fairytale $200,000.

Fairytale believes the expense is worth it because Americans love their brownies. The National Brownie Council says Americans eat approximately 1.46 billion

brownies a year. Fairytale has baked more than 60 million of them since 1992 and has branched out into cookies, too.

Although the company is 25, the spark for it goes back much further – to kindergarten, actually, when co-founders Spitalny and David Kravetz (Special to SanTan Sun News) met on a playground, the Fairytale Brownies has been rebranded and company says. repackaged with bright green spots. The owners “We met at Madison say the recipes haven’t changed a bit.

Heights, in Phoenix,” Spitalny said. “We use his mom’s brownie recipe. mailing list and sample, but it “She was just the best mom and cook was hard to make that work. and baker. She would make plain and wal“If anything, it would be Special to the SanTan Sun News nut. We call it original.” great to do some temporary David Kravetz and Eileen Spitalny, co-founders of Fairytale Years later, the childhood friends rent- shops, pop-up shops.”

Brownies, became friends in kindergarten. ed out a space in a catering shop. They For now, Fairytale has plans ended up in their own shop in Scottsdale, for a major digital expansion. moting physical fitness and fun for kids, then in Chandler, and finally in Tempe, They’re now selling on Amazon and will Fairytale has raised over $250,000 and at Cotton Center. They occupy 37,000 launch a subscription service within the donated volunteer hours to help build square feet, with most of the space taken next year. up by the bakery and shipping.

As with every holiday season, Fairytale playgrounds.

Meanwhile, the anniversary celebra“We have a little retail store there, is ramping up production. In peak holiday tions continue. too, with samples and viewing windows season, they have a crew of 191 bakers, “Something we did to celebrate or into the kitchen,” Spitalny said. “People packers, shippers and staffers. They send 25th year, we did the chocolate show, can see baking, cutting, wrapping and up to 15,000 hand-packed brownie gifts The Big Chocolate Show, in New York bakers making up caramel sheets.” out the door each day, with a team of 70 City (in early October),” Spitalny said.

The company is thinking about more shippers working round the clock. retail shops.

Spitalny says she and Kravetz keep the “We exhibited, tasting, selling brownies.”

“That’s the best way to meet new peoThey had a holiday shop in Chandler playground feel alive by supporting Kaple, to have them eat one.”

Fashion Center when it opened in 2001.

BOOM!, a charity “dedicated to ensuring Information: Brownies.com “We got a super deal for the holidays, that all kids get a childhood filled with so we tried it out where we’d bake there,” the balanced and active play needed to – Contact Ralph Zubiate at 480-898Spitalny said. “It was a great place for thrive,” according to kaboom.org.

6825 or rzubiate@timespublications.com. us to be to get people signed up on the With the goal of creating and pro-

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BUSINESS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

35

EV tech startups struggle to secure capital; groups try to fill gap

BY SAMANTHA POULS

Cronkite News

Spencer Thomason’s startup beat out 63 others at this year’s Venture Madness competition.

His pitch: “The internet has two big problems: porn and cat videos. You might be asking, ‘But what’s wrong with cat videos?’ Well, nothing per se, but cat videos represent the 44.5 hours per week on average that kids spend online.” His Mesa-based company, Clean Router, provides parents a way to filter the internet content their kids see.

The pitch impressed the judges and Thomason walked away with the title and a $10,000 cash prize, but he wasn’t able to attract the potential $300,000 in funding from regional investors.

“As soon as I said the word ‘hardware,’ they ran,” Thomason said.

Thomason’s situation illustrates a problem all too common in the East Valley: the struggle technology startups face when trying to secure capital. Experts said although the East Valley’s reputation as a growing tech hub has flourished in recent years, funding these kinds of startups is a relatively new – and potentially risky – prospect for many investors.

Several organizations have stepped in to fill those gaps by hosting everything from competitions such as Invest Southwest’s, Venture Madness and billionaire Steve Case’s Rise of the Rest to network-

Cronkite News

Thomason says the device he and his partner manufacture and sell is designed to help keep their kids safe online.

ing and educational events, such as PHX Startup Week. One of the latest efforts

brought together the East Valley Partnership, the city of Chandler and Arizona

Tech Investors for October’s Angel Investor Initiative.

“Arizona has not had the same amount of capital as the other (areas), especially the Bay Area, Boston, San Diego, Seattle, so this initiative is an attempt to try and change that,” said John Lewis, president and CEO of the East Valley Partnership.

Thomason said while there is a lot of talk about investing within the startup community in Arizona, few investors want to follow through.

Invest Southwest, a nonprofit that focuses on helping startups raise capital, partners with the Arizona Commerce Authority to run the bracket-style Venture Madness competition. It promotes the competition as a way to gain experience and connect with potential mentors and investors.

“Invest Southwest is a great organization, and now we have great bragging rights and exposure,” Thomason said.

The competition also dangles a potential investment pool of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

However, Thomason said the organizers shouldn’t promote the potential investment dollars “when few of the investors actually have any intention of investing.”

“They gave us the opportunity to pitch to investors, but winning the competition didn’t guarantee that the investors would pick you,” he added. “They chose only a SEE

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BUSINESS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

STARTUPS FROM PAGE 35 couple of pitches to go to, so not everyone got the chance.”

Nate Mortensen, the chair of Invest Southwest, said the competition is purely

panies. “Two parties have to mutually agree on funding.”

Although Thomason did secure a few investors from the competition, they eventually pulled out. Thomason said that, ironically, the company is actually

Arizona has not had the same amount of “ capital as the other (areas), especially the Bay Area, Boston, San Diego, Seattle, so this initiative is an attempt to try and change that.

”

– John Lewis, president and CEO of the East Valley Partnership to get the word out about new companies. While private investors can provide funding, they are not required to do so.

“Invest Southwest can’t control private dollars going into companies,” said Mortensen, principal at Tallwave Capital, a company that invests in business-to-business technology com-

doing better without help from investors.

Yet state and local officials have tried hard to draw focus to the state’s tech opportunities.

Phoenix ranked sixth for tech cities competing with Silicon Valley, according to Entrepreneur Magazine. The magazine considered the city’s booming 1.5 mil-

lion population, a one-year increase of 188 percent in technology job listings and a low median house selling price.

Michael Winer, an economic development specialist with Chandler, said in places such as the Silicon Valley area, the concept of angel investing is commonplace, whereas it’s a foreign concept in the Valley.

“Out here, it’s more of a recent thing,” he said. “And a lot of people that are investing are doing so in real estate, so we’re trying to shift the mentality toward other avenues for investment, specifically tech startup companies.”

That’s one of the reasons why organizers started the Angel Investor Initiative.

It’s open to individuals who possess a net worth of $1 million, or an annual income of $200,000 or a family income of $300,000, according to the guidelines.

Lewis said the group wants to identify, educate and activate potential investors: “There are individuals who have the materials to possess, but they know the real estate market, and this tech innovation market is a little new to them in terms of wanting to take money and invest in it.”

Cronkite News

Clean Router co-founder Spencer Thomason holds a router his company manufactures.

GOT NEWS?

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

Make a Difference in Someone’s Christmas this Year!

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BUSINESS

41

Chandler studio will blend cycling, yoga

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Staff

Stretching into serene poses in yoga might seem like a different type of workout from pedaling quickly to heartpounding music in an indoor cycling class.

But a Valley couple is out to prove the two popular forms of exercise feed off each other as they open a business, FLO Yoga & Cycle, on East Frye Road in Chandler this winter.

Eddie and Debbie Davis, Canadian transplants with a passion for fitness and fun, will offer gentle to strenuous yoga, cycling and classes that combine yoga and cycling together into one session.

The parents of two children say they want to provide a friendly, comfortable setting where people of all ages and exercise levels will not be intimidated.

“About seven years ago, I started doing yoga,” Debbie, a former business consultant, said. “Five years ago, I tried cycling. I thought they played off of each other very well. Cycling is kind of a moving meditation. We want to bring some social elements into the yoga classes, make them a little more fun. It’s about moving and being alive and present.”

Rap music might be played during yoga classes in the 7,200-square-foot building, with its concrete floors and brick walls, being constructed just east of Arizona Avenue in a bustling part of the city.

Instructors will be able to choose music to fit their styles and students can provide input on what type of music they want to hear in classes. Hip-hop, pop, 80s music and reggae music could be among the many choices.

In the yoga and cycling classes, students will get their heart rates up, Eddie said. The new business will offer fusion classes, where members will ride the stationary cycles for 30 minutes, then hit mats to stretch and bend in yoga for a half-hour.

In the FLO Fusion Core classes, students will take a high-intensity ride and then stretch into poses in warm yoga focused on core strength and stability.

The FLO Fusion Restore class will offer 30 minutes of a high-energy ride, then 30 minutes of deep stretching to nourish joints and relax muscles in yin yoga.

“I do like the fusion aspect,” Eddie said. “Your heart rate’s up and then you can kinda wind down. You can get really good workouts doing cycling. If you want to get stronger, come do yoga — it’ll help. Yoga’s really, really helped me.”

In the indoor cycling classes, students will pedal in “rhythm rides,” which Eddie and Debbie say is about moving to the music. Eventually they plan to start offering performance rides, where participants focus more on heart rates, distance and speed. The studio is going to offer indoor cycling classes with 30-minute rides and classes with 50-minute rides.

Eddie and Debbie say riders in the cycling classes will enjoy the Stages S3 bikes because they are easy to adjust, stay in place and provide a smooth and stable ride.

The couple said students will be able to lift weights in curls, shoulder raises and other types of movements to work their arm muscles while they pedal on

Photos by Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

People will be able to take indoor cycling classes, yoga classes and fusion classes where they do yoga and cycling at FLO Yoga & Cycle when it opens in Chandler. Owners Eddie and Debbie Davis enjoy both types of exercise. Eddie used to play in the Canadian Football League.

the stationary bikes.

FLO Yoga & Cycle will provide various types of yoga classes to ease beginners into the practice and challenge more experienced yogis.

In FLOGI 101, a flow yoga class, members will do an hour of foundational yoga, where they learn breathing techniques and focus on overall mindfulness in an area set at room temperature. More experienced students can work more on precision and alignment and take poses to a deeper level.

“We want to make it where you feel fantastic the moment you walk through our doors,” Debbie said. “We want to bring men into cycling and yoga more.”

Eddie, a St. Louis native, played football for the Canadian Football League from 1995 to 2009 and said yoga helped him recover from injuries. After retiring from professional football in 2010, he worked as an account manager for Halliburton, selling oil and gas services to companies.

Debbie, who was born and raised in Canada, worked as a business consultant for her own company for 11 years in Calgary, Alberta, where she and Eddie lived before moving to the Valley.

After their daughter, Imani, now 13, and Eddie III, now 8, were born, Debbie realized she was juggling many roles as a wife, mother and working professional/ business owner, and needed to find her own identity as a person.

“This whole kind of transformation was driven by not knowing who Debbie was at a point,” she said. “I had to do something that was fulfilling for me. For me, it was sort of a rebirth.”

That’s when she started taking yoga classes, followed by indoor cycling.

Besides enjoying the freedom of entrepreneurship and focusing on a field they love, Eddie and Debbie also believe in giving back.

With FLO It Forward, every quarter the studio will offer two classes (a yoga one and a cycling one) at half-price with the proceeds going to charity. The charity will be picked by members who vote on it.

The owners also hope to offer happy hours, corporate team-building and other community events at the studio.

Yoga and indoor cycling are getting more popular, said Garrett Brolsma, district executive director for the Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA and Tempe Family YMCA. “Yoga has been gaining popularity in the Western world, and here in Chandler, there will always be a good place for all things healthy exercise related,” Brolsma said. “Both activities deliver low-impact, high benefits to both mind and body.

“It was a key factor on our recent

The Davises, fitness enthusiasts who moved to the Valley from Canada, plan to open FLO Yoga & Cycle on East Frye Road in Chandler this winter.

launch of a new, state-of-the-art cycle studio featuring next-generation indoor cycles at the Chandler/Gilbert YMCA. This allows our members and community another health option that can challenge users of all fitness levels.”

Yoga & Cycle will be located at 71 E. Frye Road. Information: floyogacycle.com.

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BUSINESS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

ASU survey: Angry customers cost businesses $300B in future sales

BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY Staff

When that brand-new television breaks or the Internet goes out, consumers have no choice but to call customer service in search of a solution – an experience that often includes automated operators, long hold times and other inconveniences.

Arizona State University’s newly released 2017 Customer Rage Survey found that these nightmare scenarios do not just irk consumers but also cost businesses hundreds of billions of dollars.

The study – the eighth Customer Rage Survey since the White House first conducted it in 1976 – found that businesses have put $313 billion in future sales at risk due to ineffective customer-service programs that leave a majority of consumers unsatisfied.

Consumers faced the most problems with cable/satellite TV services, followed by computer and telephone services. Big companies accounted for the vast majority of these issues over small businesses, government agencies and nonprofit organizations.

The survey found that 69 million families experienced at least one issue over the past year and 56 percent of people reported customer problems in 2017. That marks a 2 percent increase over 2015 and 24 percent increase over the original White House study.

“I think that there are a number of things behind that uptick,” Mary Jo Bitner said.

“Some of the things are that the context that we live in today and the products and services have changed. There are a lot of complex products and services and things

that can go wrong. People’s expectations are higher.”

Bitner is co-executive director of the Center for Services Leadership at ASU’s W.P. Carey School of Business, which conducted the study with Customer Care Measurement & Consulting. Confirmit and Bernett also participated in the study.

Unlike in the original study, recent surveys found that the way companies respond to these complaints affects whether customers will use those products or services in the future.

In 1976, the survey found that there was a 9 percent increase in brand loyalty among complainants over non-complainants even when the complaint was not satisfied.

“What (researchers) found (in 1976) was as long as you listen to people and let them complain, you were going to get an increase in satisfaction and a likelihood to return again,” Bitner said. “We don’t see that at all in 2017.”

In fact, Rage Surveys from the 2000s found that brand loyalty decreased 10 to 12 percent as a result of dissatisfied complainants.

Unsurprisingly, customer satisfaction has a direct correlation to whether consumers intend to use businesses or services in the future.

Only 21 percent of those surveyed in 2017 indicated they were satisfied by the action taken in response to their complaints. Of that group, 68 percent had an intention to purchase from the business again.

That intention to repurchase drops dramatically – to just 11 percent – when customers indicated they were somewhat satisfied. The intention to repurchase is

nearly nonexistent in customers who were dissatisfied with the action taken, falling to 3 percent.

This is a serious issue for businesses, as dissatisfied or somewhat-satisfied consumers accounted for 79 percent of those surveyed.

This lack of satisfaction could be related to the disconnect between what customers wanted to receive and what they actually got. In 2017, 51 percent of complainants felt they received nothing for their complaint.

For example, 87 percent of respondents indicated they “wanted to be treated with dignity” but only 37 percent reported that they actually received that treatment.

Similarly, 76 percent indicated they wanted their product or service fixed but only 29 percent reported the issue actually fixed.

Overall, 73 percent of customers reported they were most satisfied when they received a combination of monetary and nonmonetary remedies. That is much higher than the percentage of customers satisfied with only a monetary remedy (41 percent) or only a non-monetary remedy (23 percent).

Consumers – even young people – still use the phone to make complaints, with 70 percent making complaints over the phone versus 12 percent using the Internet.

Customers indicated that several phone-related activities contributed to their dissatisfaction, including no option to speak to a live person, attempts to sell complainants additional products and having to repeat information.

Businesses still need to pay attention to consumers’ online activity because of its reach. Posts on social networking websites spread negative word of mouth to 825

people on average compared to 12 people under traditional word of mouth.

The news was not all bad for companies.

The survey did find that the number of households experiencing “customer rage” fell to 56 percent in 2017, down from 66 percent in 2015.

However, the decrease in customer rage did not extend to other negative emotions associated with customer service, as 91 percent of people experienced frustration, 84 percent felt disappointment and 62 percent experienced anger.

She also stated researchers have not pinpointed a definitive reason for the decrease in rage.

Bitner suggested that companies can improve customer service by increasing satisfactory remedies and limiting the amount of time it takes customers receive a satisfactory resolution to their complaints.

In the 2017 survey, just 25 percent of consumers said their issue was resolved on first contact. That number is up from just 11 percent in 2015. The average number of contacts required to resolve a complaint in 2017 was 4.1, a number that has held relatively steady since 2003.

“I think a big issue for a company is to figure out how they can handle a complaint on the first call,” Bitner said. “I think that is a responsible for improving (customer complaint handling).”

The survey included a phone survey interviewing a representative household sample of 1,000 respondents.

– Reach Wayne Schutsky at 480-898-6533 or wschutsky@timespublications.com.

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BUSINESS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

43

Polytechnic students try robots on real-world problems

BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY Staff

Hundreds of white amur fish navigate SRP canals throughout the East Valley to control the growth of weeds that can damage the canal system.

But those fish are not a viable option in some smaller canals, leaving the utility searching for alternatives to remove the unwanted vegetation.

That is where students at Arizona State University’s Polytechnic campus in Mesa come in.

“We are looking at applications and areas in SRP where they don’t have a technical solution right now,” assistant professor Dan Aukes said.

Aukes, a Gilbert resident, supervises students working in ASU’s IDEAlab, which stands for Integrating Design, Engineering and Analysis. The lab is a nexus for solving an array of problems with robotics.

Those problems are the focus of some projects funded by Salt River Project, but Polytechnic students are working on inventions to address challenges in other fields, such as stroke recovery and physical therapy.

In the university’s Robotics and Intelligent Systems Laboratory, researchers are working on several projects to make existing dreams a reality for a diverse slate of industries from eCommerce to public safety.

They include: Autonomous bicycles: Researchers are working on gyroscope and autonomous

Photos by Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

Students in Assistant Professor Panagiotis Polygerinos’ Bio-Inspired Mechatronics Lab are developing an autonomous quadcopter, or drone, to monitor SRP canal systems for contaminants.

balance technology that could aid disabled riders and seniors who want to ride bikes.

This autonomous technology could also benefit the bike share programs already active in major cities across the country by giving bikes the ability to return themselves to a central hub after use.

Delivery drones: Inspired by Amazon’s aspirations to deliver products by drone, students are developing an algorithm that will allow multiple quadcopters to work together to deliver heavy objects.

The algorithm will allow one drone to function as the leader, with others – potentially hundreds – acting as followers.

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Collapsible drones: Researchers are designing a quadcopter with flexible and foldable arms.

This technology could allow police officers and other first responders to store the drone in their pockets for use at a moment’s notice to track high-speed chases or respond to emergencies in complex terrain.

In the IDEAlab, doctoral student Mohammad Sharifzadeh is developing an autonomous robotic fish that can navigate narrow canals and cut unwanted grasses that can grow between six inches and one foot per day.

The fish robot’s two-pronged tail and thin, cylindrical body resemble a real fish because Sharifzadeh is taking tips from real-world animals to aid in the robot’s locomotion.

Projects in the IDEAlab predominantly use inexpensive materials. This allows students to test multiple designs and prototypes cheaply and quickly, Assistant Professor Daniel Aukes said.

The current fish prototype uses a mixture of 3-D-printed rigid plastic and flexible plastic that can be designed quickly so the researchers can experiment with thickness. “(Using cheap materials) allows all students in the lab to make robots over and over and over and refine their robots that way. This is instead of a long, drawn-out process of analysis and design that results in one failure that requires them to start over in that process for another couple of months,” Aukes said.

SRP is funding the project, and one day the robotic descendants of this early prototype will likely make their way through SRP’s vast system of canals.

“Something we enjoy about (working with ASU) is that it allows us to work with local experts on issues specific to SRP,” said Chico Hunter, the utility’s manager of research and environmental policy.

He added that the solutions ASU is working on can increase safety and efficiency for the utility as it monitors over a thousand miles of canals, laterals and ditches in addition to eight reservoirs.

SEE

INVENTIONS PAGE 44

BUSINESS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

INVENTIONS FROM PAG E43

a walking aid that can assist stroke patients in their recovery in collaboration with Barrow Neurological Institute.

The project received funding from the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust.

The product that Ph.D. students Shatadal Mishra and Zhi Qiao have come up with does not look like much on the surface. However, in practice, it could be life changing.

It consists of an inflatable black bladder that attaches behind a patient’s knee and starts off soft and malleable. Then, when pressurized with air, the bladders – also called actuators – become stiff and can provide support for the knee as stroke patients relearn how to walk.

Much like the SRP robots, the project requires the algorithms and control mechanisms developed by Zhang’s students and the soft robotics know-how from those working with Polygerinos.

“This is a nice collaborative project that has several interesting components (including) sensing, soft robotics, control (mechanisms). … This project gives you a good idea of what a robotic project looks like; it does require expertise and information from a wide variety of fields,” Zhang said.

One of the students demonstrated the device for reporters by walking on a treadmill, the actuator inflating and deflating as he moved.

Using sensors developed in Zhang’s lab, the device is able to track a range of information, including where a patient is at in their step. The device uses this information to regulate stiffness and support during physical therapy.

The product is set to begin clinical design trials in November.

– Reach Wayne Schutsky at 480-898-6533 or wschutsky@timespublications.com.

44

The mutually beneficial relationship between ASU and SRP goes back 35 years.

“The interesting thing is it gives us a realistic grounding in a problem that needs to be solved rather than a theoretical problem that may not have a practical application,” Aukes said.

Hunter expressed a similar sentiment. “(SRP is) getting good information to (solve) real-world problems, and the university and students get access to learn about real utility industry issues,” he said.

Hunter, who is bullish on the program, and said ASU professors and students often find solutions to longstanding industry issues because they think outside the box.

He points to SRP’s Flowtopgraphy project as one example. The technology helps SRP understand watershed conditions in Arizona using remote photography and was developed collaboratively with ASU after traditional measurement equipment proved ineffective.

The fish robot could be the next collaboration to change the way SRP manages water in Arizona.

Using specialized sensors, Sharifzadeh tests the robot in a small fish tank to understand how much force it generates. He will use that data to evaluate the effectiveness of the current design.

Based on the force data, the student will optimize the design of the fin and make decisions regarding the thickness of the material used in the robot.

“The idea isn’t to make one robot that is very expensive and does everything,” Aukes said.

Rather, he added, the point is to create an inexpensive robot that can take care of a specific issue and is a cost-effective solu-

(Kimberly Carrillo/Tribune Staff Photographer)

ASU student Mohammad Sharifzadeh is developing an autonomous robotic fish that can navigate narrow SRP canals and cut unwanted grasses that can grow between six inches and one foot per day.

tion for SRP to deploy on a large scale.

While Aukes students are focusing on what’s under the surface in SRP canals, others at the Polytechnic campus are looking at the systems from above.

Students in Assistant Professor Wenlong Zhang’s Robotics and Intelligent Systems Laboratory are working collaboratively with students in assistant professor Panagiotis Polygerinos’ Bio-Inspired Mechatronics Lab to develop another product for SRP: an autonomous quadcopter, or drone.

“We get a lot from (the partnership); not just the funds to run the research but also the students are able to interact with real-world applications and partners.

They get to see real-world applications happen in front of their eyes, and they are part of it,” Polygerinos said.

Using algorithms developed in Zhang’s lab, the drone would monitor SRP canal systems for contaminants.

Using soft robotics – a new field of robotics that uses compliant, flexible materials instead of the traditional rigid and hard components typically seen in robots – Polygerinos’ students have created a soft grasper hand that can remove those objects using compressed air.

“What that grasper does in reality is it eliminates the control complexity for us, because it doesn’t need to know exactly the location of the object or how big or small it is thanks to the (flexibility) of the simple materials we use,” Polygerinos said.

Ph.D. students Carly Thalman and Sridar Saivimal are still working on a prototype of the project, which will eventually include on-board GPS and compressed air systems so it can fly autonomously.

The drone also may be able to take water samples for SRP in the future.

Students in Zhang and Polygerinos’ labs are also working together to develop

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WeinMausoleum want to take this opportunity to thank the members of the community and especially the families of and building process, we are moving in some temporary modular buildings to be used for the mortuary, cemetery office and chapel.

In the meantime, wemembers have been the Chapel Mausoleum theopportunity North end of the property for our makeshift office.

Weand want to takeon this to thank the ofusing the community especially the families of the people we have served for their understanding and patients during buildings to be used for the mortuary, cemetery office and chapel.

In the meantime, we have been using the Chapel Mausoleum on the North end of the property for our makeshift office.

We want to take this opportunity to thank the members of the community and especially the families of the people we have served for their understanding and patients during this trying process. meantime, we have been using the Chapel Mausoleum on the North end of the property for our makeshift office.

We want to take this opportunity to thank members of the and especially the families of the people we have served forcommunity their understanding and patients during this tryingthe process. of property for our makeshift office.

Weand want to take to the thank the members of the especially theopportunity families of the people we have served forcommunity their understanding and this patients during this trying process. to thank the members of the community and especially the families of the people we have served for their understanding and patients during this trying process. the people we have served for their understanding and patients during this trying process.

10940 E. Chandler Heights Rd. this trying process.

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BUSINESS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

45

Local restaurant, employee win Foodist awards Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, won the Restaurant Employee Award, which recognizes non-managerial front or A Chandler restaurant and industry back of house employees who “set the insider are the toast of the town after gold standard for exemplary customer winning Foodist awards recently. service and enhancing the overall dining Foodist is the state’s top culinary and experience.” hospitality industry awards.

“It meant a lot to have just been Chompie’s Restaurant, Deli and Bakery nominated, but to have actually won was on West Frye Road in Chandler earned really amazing!” Dierauer said. “Arizona’s hospitality industry is filled with such amazing talent that it’s really hard think that I deserve it.”

Chompie’s officials were also thrilled about the honor.

“We have so much respect for all the restaurant industry leaders honored at this year’s Foodist Awards, and being recognized in the ‘Good Neighbor’ category was such Photo courtesy of Ling & Louie’s Asian Bar & Grill a humbling, special Black Orchid Ahi is on the menu at Ling & Louie’s Asian Bar & Grill, where Sherry Dierauer, a server/trainer, won the Restaurant Employee moment for us,” said Wendy Borensteinaward, part of the Foodist honors.

Tucker, executive vice the Good Neighbor award, which honors president of marketing for Chompie’s and “outstanding community leadership one of the restaurant’s family members. and exceptional devotion to making a “After nearly 40 years in the Valley, we difference in our neighborhoods and feel such a strong tie to this community community at large,” a release said. and how important it is for us to give back Sherry Dierauer, a server/trainer at as much as we can. Being recognized for Ling & Louie’s Asian Bar & Grill at Wild those efforts is not something we ever

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Staff

Photo courtesy of Chompie’s Restaurant, Deli and Bakery

Bobka crumb French toast is one of the many breakfast items people can order at Chompie’s Restaurant, Deli and Bakery. The Chandler location earned a Foodist Good Neighbor award, which honors “outstanding community leadership and exceptional devotion to making a difference.”

expected, but it feels great,” she added.

For the first time this year, the Foodist Awards and voting were open to the public, giving Arizona culinary lovers a chance to interact with the state’s highly regarded chefs, mixologists and influencers.

New this year, the nomination and voting process was done online and more than 1,500 votes were cast from the general public to determine the finalists and winners.

Another Foodist award winner for 2017 was Cress on Oak Creek at L’Auberge

de Sedona, a Sedona restaurant, which took home the Uniquely Arizona distinction. That award goes to a restaurant that embraces local food and “staples of the state.”

Hash Kitchen, which has Scottsdale locations, won the Innovative Restaurant Concept award, given to a restaurateur or restaurant group that shows they “don’t follow trends; they define them,” according to a press release.

Information: foodistawards.com.Optional devotion to making a difference in our neighborhoods and community at large.”

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Sports & Recreation

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Sports-focused classes giving Chandler athletes a leg up

BY JACK HARRIS Contirbutor

The competitive stakes have been raised in high school athletics. The pursuit of even the most minuscule of advantages can warrant a change of action.

The Chandler Unified School District has found a way to give its schools’ athletic departments a big leg up on their competitors. In the CUSD, playing a sport is a class.

The district allows its student to enroll in classes that focus on the varsity sport they play. The benefits have been noticeable.

“I think it’s a huge advantage,” Perry High School head football coach Preston Jones said. “Now they get to take an hour of their school day and they get home earlier, they get more time for rest, recovery, studying, being a kid.”

Jones gets to see his players during a school-day class period four times a week year-round. He said it gives his staff the flexibility to work in a multitude of football activities throughout the day that otherwise might be left out of his team’s routine.

“We get to take advantage of this,” he said. “We can bring them in to lift in the morning and then during football class, we get to do some football-skillspecific things.”

Some days, his team is done with both class and football before studentathletes at other schools around the Valley have started their final period of the day.

Perry boys volleyball assistant coach Ryan Tolman has seen the difference the program can make.

Tolman used to be head coach of the boys volleyball team at Desert Vista High School, part the Tempe Union High School District, which didn’t have an arrangement for its athletes to take a class built around their sport.

“The best part about being at Perry, as a teacher and coach, is that the day is not as long,” he said. “Granted you start earlier…but I’m done with practice at 4:30 [p.m.] every day. Sometimes I wouldn’t even start practice until then at Desert Vista.”

Tolman’s son, Daxton, is a sophomore at Perry and enrolled in the school’s volleyball class. Having his own child experience the program has only added to his praises of its impact.

“It shortens the day for the kids,” he said. “It frees them up to be able to participate in other things outside of the sport they are doing or have time to do their homework.”

In CUSD, the tradition of duringschool sports started at Hamilton High School. Its system, named “The Academy,” helped build one of Arizona’s most dominant athletic programs – the seven-time state champion football team being its crown jewel.

It’s no wonder the system became a district-wide phenomenon.

Noting that schools “control their schedules that fits their campus the

Greg Macafee/Sports Editor

Jobiin Sweatt dodges a defender as he heads toward the goal.

best regarding athletics,” CUSD Director of Athletics Marcus Williams said each campus does something a little different.

The real surprise isn’t that CUSD extended the privilege to all its schools, but that there still are districts around the state that haven’t adopted the plan yet.

Why? For the same reason most things either do or don’t happen in sports.

Money.

“That’s always the issue. Where do you find the money?” Tolman said. “We tried to do it in the Tempe district.

I remember a few years ago, we had coaches meetings about how can we do something similar to what Hamilton and the Chandler district are doing. We just couldn’t find the money.”

Desert Vista High School settled on what it calls “Advanced P.E.,” a glorified weightlifting class for student-athletes that aims to improve specific skills. But that program doesn’t divide students based on their sports, nor does it allow varsity coaches an extra free hour with their teams.

“They just aren’t the same,” Tolman said.

At Perry, the program has been titled “locker class” and is available to all students of all competitive levels. What each sport does with its extra team time is a little different. “[Our] locker class is usually strictly for weights and getting stronger,” senior soccer player Kyle Davidson said of his sport’s class.

Jones’ football team on the other hand uses the time slot to get a head start on daily practice. Then during the offseason, strength-building is reincorporated into the routine. But with the freedom allowed to coaches

by courses, the possibilities to improve a team can be endless.

Tolman said the Pumas volleyball squad has even uses the period as a study hall sometimes, pushing its players to catch up on schoolwork they might have missed because of sports.

Concerns of any kind regarding the program are few and far between.

There is no inherent pressure for every athlete at the school to enroll in the program. Davidson said he is only one of three varsity soccer players in the class, which is instead mostly

comprises younger players looking to jump up from junior varsity levels.

Worries of a lessened focus on academics has been mitigated, with the locker classes accounting for necessary P.E. credits.

And when it comes to game days, the unique system seems to pay off.

“As a coach, you are seeing your kids every single day all year long,” Tolman said. “I think it’s a huge competitive advantage and the schools who aren’t doing it are just a step behind.”

Greg Macafee/Sports Editor

Perry quarterback Brock Purdy lines up for a pass.

SPORTS & RECREATION

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

47

East Valley sports community rallies in tragedy

BY GREG MACAFEE Sports Editor

Sports often have a strange way of uniting friends, families and even complete strangers. Athletics can often take it one step further and unite entire communities in moments of need.

It has happened multiple times on a national level this year. When Houston, Puerto Rico and Florida were stuck by hurricanes, surrounding states, community members, celebrities and athletes did everything they could to show their support. Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt was one of the biggest faces showing his support by raising over $37 million to aid in Houston’s recovery.

Tragedy also has stricken the Phoenix area multiple times this high school sports season, and every time, communities have respond with tremendous amounts of support.

First, Alex Edjourian, a Perry student-athlete, and his family lost their home and all their belongings in a tragic house fire at the beginning of September.

After a Facebook post from the Perry High School Touchdown Club, the response to help the entire Edjourian family in their time of need was outstanding.

Donations started piling in, but the support didn’t just come from the Perry community. Surrounding schools and fellow football boosters’ program, pitched in. Hamilton, Chandler, Campo Verde, Williams Field and many others helped the Perry family.

“People from all over were willing to help,” Perry varsity football coordinator Becky James said. “Especially people involved in football programs at other schools such as Campo Verde, Williams Field, and even schools way up north, who either saw it on social media or heard about it from their kids.

“We had Arizona College Prep reach out and send a $200 check just because it was a family in the Chandler school district.

Families sent individual donations from other surrounding schools as well. Their GoFundMe account raised $6,000.”

This was just the first time that the Arizona football community would bond together over a tragic event.

The death of Perry junior varsity football player Brayden Mason brought together this special community once again.

The Chandler Wolves gifted memory towels to the Pumas that displayed both Brayden’s name and his number 40.

“The outpouring of love, concern and donations that were received for the Mason family was even more than what we saw with the Edjourians, and this was significant considering the two tragedies happened so close together and both with kids from the same JV team,” James said. “So many surrounding schools sent their love and support in the way of personal messages, doing their own collections from their football communities and presenting cards and donations to the family.”

After the Perry JV team beat the Chandler JV team, both teams joined on Austin Field at Chandler High School for a candlelight vigil to honor Mason’s memory.

Perry varsity football head coach Preston Jones called the moment “indescribable.”

“There couldn’t have been a better way to celebrate a life with a bunch of

teenage boys. It was a very special time. Emotions were crazy because it was after a game and a big win, but also after a big loss” Jones said.

“I guess words can’t really describe it, but if there was a perfect way to do something, it sure felt like it that night.”

Recently, it was the death of Moon Valley football player Carlos Sanchez that united the Phoenix football community during the final week of the regular football season.

Sanchez, 16, a junior linebacker, suddenly fell to the ground during Moon Valley’s Oct. 20 game against Cactus.

Sanchez was rushed to a nearby hospital and pronounced dead days later.

(Becky James/Special to the Tribune) Last week, the Maricopa Teammates display Brayden Mason’s uniform during a candlelight vigil.

County Medical Examiner’s Office announced that everybody shakes hands and says, ‘Good the occasion as well. With a history of “blunt-force trauma” was the game.’ It’s a tight-knit family.” organizing charity events that have benecause of death.

While these are just three examples of fitted different causes, Sports360AZ Lead The junior was honored in Moon Valhow sports can bring entire communities Photographer Andy Silvas decided to rafley’s regular season finale in more ways together, they are significant examples. than one. There was a 33-second moment fle off a two-hour photo session, which They show no matter the team, no matter usually costs around $275. So, he reached of silence, a tackle was credited to Santhe colors donned or the rivalries played, out to the Higley High School football chez on the first play of the game, and when someone needs it most, sports have a strange way of uniting people.

“Football has done that,” James said. “Football is competitive, but is also about discipline, respect, and doing the right thing and that definitely has shown this season.”

is competitive, but is also about discipline, “ Football respect, and doing the right thing and that definitely has shown this season.”

– Perry varsity football coordinator Becky James

Moon Valley’s captains carried his jersey onto the field for the coin toss.

The support for a player Moon Valley football coach Seth Millican described as having a “200-pound heart stuffed into a 170-pound body” still hasn’t ceased. A

program and put the fundraiser in motion for its regular season finale.

“I hadn’t done anything in a while and I saw that someone was donating their entry fees,” Silvas said. “So, I thought what if I donated a photo session. They said,

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GoFundMe account, set up by the Moon Valley boosters in the name of the Sanchez family, collected donations that will go toward medical bills, funeral costs and more. As of Thursday morning, the total had reached close to $35,000 of a $50,000 goal. The GoFundMe account received donations, from groups, businesses, individuals and several high school athletic teams throughout the Valley donated as well.

And other members of the high school football community wanted to rise to

‘We’re in; whatever we need to do.’”

During just one game, the raffle raised around $600, and the funds were donated to the Sanchez family earlier this week.

Forty-five miles separate Higley and Moon Valley, and even though Silvas never knew Sanchez personally, helping his family was about something more.

“It’s a family. It’s high school football,” Silvas said. “It’s not as big as Texas or as Florida, but you know what, they have their rivalries, but at the end of the game

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Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the Chandler City Council

SATURDAY

DECEMBER 2 4:30‑9 p.m.

Downtown Chandler

Get ready to light up your night and ring in the holidays at the City of Chandler’s 61st Annual Tumbleweed Tree Lighting.

The evening kicks off with live performances, festive rides and a glowing Parade of Lights. The celebration culminates with the lighting of the Tumbleweed Tree at 8 p.m. Kids of all ages can sip hot chocolate, send letters to Santa and make holiday crafts. It’s an evening of merriment the whole family can enjoy.

chandleraz.gov/tumbleweedtree

50

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Opinion

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Chandler Orchestra opens doors to diversity through fun events

BY RENÉ LOPEZ Guest Writer

Happy 25th Birthday, Chandler Symphony Orchestra! Since 1993, the city has been blessed with its very own symphony orchestra.

Maestro Jack Herriman founded the orchestra and has conducted it since the beginning. He had a vision to create opportunities for all ages to enjoy classical music through free concerts.

After all these years, the growth of this organization is a true testament to Herriman’s dedication to the arts and the members of the community.

Chandler Center for the Arts is home to several of the group’s performances.

In addition to the city’s partnership, community involvement is very important to the orchestra’s success.

Every concert is free; however, a donation at the door always is appreciated. There are several opportunities to be involved, including

volunteering at performances, sponsoring a musician or concert, making corporate or individual donations and advertising in the orchestra’s annual program.

All donations are used to help buy and rent music, venues, refreshments for the musicians and minimal administrative needs.

The orchestra comprises 90 professionally trained musicians who dedicate countless hours volunteering their time to rehearsals and performances.

Several of them have been involved for many years, including a violinist who is 90 years old and substitutes as a music teacher.

Although the musicians are volunteers, quality is very important. Anyone who is interested in becoming a member is encouraged to audition.

Music open the doors to diversity and cultural experiences. It allows the mind to be creative. Studies show a direct impact between those exposed to the arts and their developmental growth, both in the classroom and in life.

The Chandler Center for the Arts provides wonderful programs for the youth. Programs offered include musical

theater camps and workshops.

The fall concert series runs through Jan. 28.

Two of the musicians volunteered to compose pieces for this season.

Charles Liu composed “Chandler Festival Overture.” David McConaughey composed “Marche Militaire” and that will be featured at the Jan. 28 performance.

Two extraordinary events are planned this season. The First Annual Star Wars Fan Fest is taking place 2:30-8 p.m. on Dec. 9 at the Downtown Stage in Chandler. It is a free family-friendly event that focuses on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) and will provide families with hands-on opportunities to learn about science, literacy, arts and music.

Orbital ATK will launch a scaled model of its Antares rocket and the orchestra will perform various John Williams scores from the “Star Wars” series at 6:30 p.m.

Attendees also are encouraged to come in costumes and participate in the “Star Wars” costume contest.

The event will conclude with a fireworks show. For more information on the event, and to learn how to be involved: starwarsfanfest.com.

On Feb. 17, the Gala Silver Anniversary Celebration Dinner will be hosted at the Oakwood Golf Club in Sun Lakes at 5 p.m.

Tickets are $80, which covers the price of dinner and includes an opportunity to be seated with one of the conductors or musicians.

A silent auction also will take place, and many nice items have already been donated. For more information on the dinner and to learn how to get involved: chandlersymphony.com.

I encourage everyone to experience the Chandler Symphony Orchestra.

Hearing music played live is life changing.

It can create an emotional connection or bring back childhood memories.

There are several opportunities to learn and become a part of the arts and culture community. This year is definitely a time to celebrate the music.

Grab your family and friends and come out and play.

Slow down, avoid distractions to keep roads safe

BY TERRY ROE

Guest Writer

On any given day more than 50,000 cars pass through each of approximately 60 major intersections in our city.

This adds up to a whopping 3 million vehicles per day at these crossings.

Needless to say, maintaining optimal traffic flow and maximizing safety for drivers, pedestrians, motorcyclists and bicyclists is a complex endeavor. Chandler is fortunate to have a highly skilled team of dedicated city engineers and traffic analysts to monitor our intersections and coordinate more than 200 signaled intersections to ensure that you and I travel

as safely and efficiently as possible around the community.

Of course, we all play an important role when it comes to being safe on the road. I encourage every resident and visitor to take a pledge for road safety.

Join me in practicing safe driving habits while raising awareness about the need to: • Slow down, especially in school zones and construction areas • Never text while driving. Also eliminate any other types of distractions.

• Never drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Call a taxi or arrange to have a designated driver.

• Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of yours.

• Share the road with motorcycles, bicyclists and pedestrians.

• Assume all drivers on the road will do

something unexpected and be ready to avoid it.

We should all know that operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol can have a devastating impact on families. That’s why it’s so important that folks make a special effort to avoid any and all impaired driving.

I recently interviewed Jason Frazier, the executive director of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for the State of Arizona. We discussed MADD’s partnership with the Chandler Police Department and the services they offer to victims of drunk driving. The discussion will soon be available for viewing at youtube.com/cityofchandler.

Our team was formed to celebrate the life of David Payne, a motorcycle officer killed by a drunk driver while on duty on Oct. 31, 2014.

If you are interested in learning more about local traffic, the City of Chandler posts important information about traffic restrictions, road construction projects and traffic management news at chandleraz.gov/restrictions.

There is also valuable information related to traffic signal timing, as well as pedestrian countdowns at crossings and flashing yellow arrows. In addition, residents can subscribe to email notifications at chandleraz.gov/ subscriptions or reach staff in the Traffic Division by calling 480-782-3454.

As our community continues to grow and accommodate more people on the road, we need to remind each other to stay alert and free of distractions to prevent tragedies. For the sake of our families, friends and others, let’s all make a concerted effort to make road safety a priority.

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Anonymous letters are not typically accepted. Email is the preferred submission method, to Letters@SanTanSun.com.

All submitted Letters to the Editor and Community Commentaries become the property of the SanTan Sun News and may be reprinted in part, quoting the letters’ authors, or in their entirety. Your submission to the SanTan Sun

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Neighbors

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Staff, community rallying around beloved Casteel principal

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Staff

Casteel High School Principal Sandy Lundberg is the kind of leader who boosts everyone she meets by lifting their spirits and making them feel like they can accomplish anything.

That’s why staff members, students, parents and the community say they are rallying around her as she battles a rare type of lung cancer.

They are organizing a fundraising event called Living in the Joy, one of Lundberg’s favorite expressions, from 8 a.m. to noon on Dec. 2 at the high school, 24901 S. Power Road, Queen Creek.

For $5, people can eat breakfast and bid on decorated Christmas trees in a silent auction. Raffle tickets will be sold for $5 each and people can win a variety of gift cards. Proceeds from the event will go to Lundberg’s medical costs.

“Sandy’s incredible courage, spirit and positive outlook are inspirational to all of us who know her and those who will come to know her in the days and months ahead,” said Living in the Joy chair Kara Wilson, who is Lundberg’s administrative assistant at Casteel High.

“She’s a person who has spent her life building relationships with people.”

Wilson added. “She makes connections with kids on a daily basis. Her whole focus has been making connections in the community so we can come together and help these kids succeed. Now it’s time for those of us to turn around and return the favor.”

Lundberg, 52, is undergoing targeted chemotherapy and is on medical leave but

Special to SanTan Sun News

Casteel High School Principal Sandy Lundberg is battling cancer, and her staff members, students, faculty and residents are rallying around her. They will have a fundraiser Dec. 2 at the Queen Creek school.

she comes to the school about once a week and contacts staff every day, Wilson said.

Wilson has worked for Lundberg for about six years, including previously as Lundberg’s administrative assistant at Arizona College Prep-Oakland Campus in Chandler.

“She’s very passionate about education and about kids,” Wilson said. “She believes and she surrounds herself with people who believe every child can succeed at a high level.”

Lundberg is in good spirits, she said.

When she was first diagnosed with cancer, she said, “I don’t know why this is happening. I know that God has a plan and I’m going to trust in his plan. I have just decided I’m going to live in the joy, find the joy.”

Lundberg is grateful for the support.

“I’m very humbled, very blessed that they would all want to do it, but

humbled the most,” she said. “It’s just amazing to see … how they’re just wiling to step up and help you when you are in need it’s amazing. It’s such a wonderful community. The cancer community has just reached out in so many ways. It’s just been phenomenal.

“All of my staff are just wonderful and supportive. You’re asking them to all step up and do more. I call them my white buffalo. White buffalo are real, but they’re unique. They’re awe-inspiring and irreplaceable,” she added.

At Casteel, students are taught to say “I don’t get this right now,” rather than just “I don’t get this” to reinforce that they can learn anything, Wilson said.

She added Lundberg, who has been in the Chandler Unified School District for about 10 years, is such a good principal that parents make sure their children can enroll at Casteel, which opened in 2015.

Wilson said Lundberg takes the time to stop and talk to all students and teachers she sees in the hallway to make positive comments.

The principal also has forged a close relationship with community groups including the Sun Lakes Rotary Club, which has led to the organization providing support and programs to Casteel.

Lundberg works well with parents and previously taught for 18 years in Minnesota, Wilson said. A parent herself, Lundberg and her husband, Bill, have two daughters: Maggie, 11, a student at Auxier Elementary School and Melissa, 16, a junior at Casteel.

Faculty and staff members at Casteel recently each contributed $20 in a fundraiser, where they then wore jeans to work for four days. That effort raised $1,300 for Lundberg, Wilson said.

A gofundme account has raised about $20,000 for the school principal.

Lundberg looks forward to the Dec. 2 fundraiser, saying she and Bill are amazed by all the help and outpouring of love. She’s worked in education for 30 years, including 18 teaching instrumental music/band to K-12th grades.

“I just I don’t know that I can express enough high regard for just everyone; the staff, the community,” Lundberg said.

“The support is overwhelming. We tried to build a school to be uncommon. Really the community is showing itself to be uncommon and such a blessing. We are awe inspired that’s for sure.”

People can still make in-kind donations to volunteer at the Dec. 2 event, or donate raffle items by calling Wilson at 480-4248107 or Wilson.kara@cusd80.com.

‘Friendsgiving’ fills hearts with fun gatherings

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Staff

Thanksgiving is traditionally a time when people bond with their families over turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie, cheer for their favorite football teams and express gratitude for the important people and blessings in their lives.

However, many people in Chandler and other parts of the East Valley are celebrating the day of grace and gluttony with their other loved ones – their friends.

They are serving the time-honored meal, breaking out the fine china and toasting the special people in their lives at Friendsgiving gatherings.

Sometimes they invite friends over on Thanksgiving while other times they celebrate the holiday a week before or a week after the big day so their amigos can spend time with their families on the actual holiday.

Friendsgiving is a trend around the country as many people live far away from their families and can’t travel to be with them on Thanksgiving. Some just prefer the company of their friends over their family as blood relations can sometimes spark drama at holiday parties.

How the term “Friendsgiving” was

coined and began is unknown. It was reportedly entered into urbandictionary. com in 2009. Some believe the TV show “Friends” sparked the Friendsgiving movement as the six main characters famously celebrated Thanksgiving together.

Many Chandler residents like to mix their friends and families at their Friendsgiving dinners.

Either way, Chandler residents say they enjoy breaking bread with people they have fostered ties with through college, jobs, online groups and other popular meeting sites. They add the friendship, food, drinks and games Petra Lambert, 49, who lives in the Sun River area of Chandler, loves having her longtime friend Luz Alcantara, Luz’s husband, Rodolfo, and the couple’s adult children over for Friendsgiving on Thanksgiving Day. They join Petra, her husband, Greg, and Petra and Greg’s son, Casey, 17, and daughter, Zoe, 16, for traditional turkey, stuffing and other dishes.

Friendsgiving for Lambert started about five years ago. Lambert and Luz met about a decade ago while teaching at a charter school in Gilbert.

“Luz is from Mexico,” Lambert said. “She doesn’t have any family here. Her husband does, but they’re like not close by. It’s just

Special to SanTan Sun News

(From left) Tess Poppel, Jenn Nicoll and Jenn’s daughter, Jessica, celebrate Friendsgiving a few years ago. Jenn, her husband, Brian, and their daughter, Jessica, Chandler residents, celebrate Friendsgiving every year with Tess and her family.

really cool to have just a lot of people.

It’s just so much fun because even if I had people that were in my family, we would all

be making the same foods.

“Different people that come from different regions or different parts of the country, they will have their own recipes so it’s fun like that, too. The kids get to see each other again. It’s just really nice.”

“I just think she looks forward to having an American meal,” Petra added.

Petra said she enjoys using nice dishes she got as wedding gifts from her husband’s late grandmother and she likes serving ginger ale in a pretty goblet on Friendsgiving.

“It looks so beautiful at the table,” she said. “It’s just nice to have everything matching. I take out my placemats, things I’ve gotten throughout the years, nice things.”

Jenn Nicoll, 39, of Chandler also enjoys hanging out with close friends on Friendsgiving. Nicoll, her husband, Brian, and their daughter, Jessica, 8, like to go to the house of their friends, JP and Tess Poppel’s house in Gilbert for the occasion.

Nicoll started hosting Friendsgiving at her house 11 years ago, inviting over friends after moving to the Valley from Connecticut. Her family members live in Connecticut and it’s difficult to travel there around the holidays. Nicoll had a stroke see

FRIENDSGIVING page 51

NEIGHBORS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

FRIENDSGIVING from page 50 four years ago and said she feels better in the warmer temperatures in the Valley.

While she loves her family, Nicoll said she enjoys seeing her friends on the holidays to avoid family drama.

“I like friends better than family,” she said. “Families always argue. The friends here are totally down-to-earth, fun, easy to talk to.”

At their Friendsgiving celebrations, Nicoll and her friends and family members like to play Pictionary and other games and watch football.

Friendsgiving is a team effort for Jessica Taylor, 34, and her friends. They started feasting together on Friendsgiving in 2011. About 45 people in her circle came to last year’s dinner.

“It’s like our favorite event of the year,” Taylor said. “It’s so fun. Our friends that host it are transplants from Chicago and didn’t have any family out here. It’s almost like recovery from all the family drama that most of us have on the actual Thanksgiving.

For people that don’t have family locally, it’s particularly nice for them.

“I think it’s a cliché, but your friends are the family that you choose. We have a really closeknit group of friends that all went to school together at ASU.” She said her friend who hosts Friendsgiving is an amazing cook.

“She’ll make several turkeys and just huge servings of potatoes and broccoli and stuffing and gravy, all the main courses and all (the) sides,” Taylor said. “Everyone else brings drinks and desserts. People can also bring appetizers. My husband works in the

wine industry so we always just bring wine.”

Taylor’s parents live in Tucson and her brother lives out of the country, but some of her friends bring parents and siblings with them to the Friendsgiving.

Many of the friends bring their children, including Jessica and her husband, James, who will bring their daughter Lila, 3, and Maya, who is about six months old.

The Friendsgiving takes place the Saturday after Thanksgiving and the group likes to play flag football that morning in a nearby park.

Arizona State University also brought together David Louie, 27, of Gilbert, who will attend a Friendsgiving at a friend’s home in Chandler. He also plans to host his own Friendsgiving this year.

Louie, a student at ASU’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, invited fellow law school students over to celebrate Thanksgiving last year after having moved to the Valley from California.

“I don’t have family out here,” Louie said. “I figured I’d be able to host a Friendsgiving since I wasn’t returning home for Thanksgiving. I didn’t want to be that guy who was just sitting by myself.”

He said he and 14 friends, most of whom were ASU law school students, came over for a potluck on Friendsgiving last year, eating turkey, roasted duck, salmon and pie and drinking “lots of wine.”

The friends feasted together the week before Thanksgiving to allow people a chance to visit their families on Thanksgiving if they chose to do so.

“Aside from eating and drinking, we reflected on what we’re thankful for,” Louie said. “A lot of it was thankful for

meeting each other. We played Cards Against Humanity. It was a funny, eventful night. It was a great time in the moment.

It helped distract me from missing the traditions that I have with my family.”

He did not visit his family in California for Thanksgiving because of the cost, as well as demands of law school and working an internship at the time.

This year, in addition to hosting Friendsgiving again, he will go to a friend’s house in Chandler.

He met her through Facebook and expects about 15 people to be there, and they will eat Mexican food. The dinner he will have at his home will include friends he knows from various places, including former roommates and landlords, as many of the friends he knew from law school last year are no longer in the school.

“I think they do enjoy being in that moment, too, and just spending time with friends, the idea of togetherness and just being thankful for what we have, the process we’re going through, especially last year since we were all going down the same road,” Louie said.

“We were all going through the same tribulations, the same stress. To break away from that knowing we were finished with our finals.”

A rainy day 10 years ago prompted a Friendsgiving tradition for a Gilbert woman and her family.

Emily Ewing said her children and her neighbors’ kids were playing outside on the evening before Thanksgiving a decade ago when it started to rain. The children and their parents decided to take shelter in Ewing’s garage and as dinner time got

5 – 20

%

closer they decided to order pizza.

The parents drank wine and everyone ate pizza, having such a good time that Ewing decided to make a Thanksgiving Eve Friendsgiving celebration an annual tradition.

Now, every year Emily and her husband, Michael, and their children, Megan, 16, Aubrey, 14, and Allison, 10, invite friends to eat pizza in their yard.

They order pizzas and Emily makes salads and desserts for everyone.

Last year, about 150 people gathered to bond at the Ewings’ yard and 150 to 200 are expected this year. The family sets up fire pits and heat lamps and Michael puts spotlights on their house’s roof to light the green belt, where the children play soccer.

The Ewings also set up cornhole, Jenga GIANT and Ladderball games for their friends to play. Wine, beer and other adult drinks are put in the garage, while the Ewings provide juice boxes, water and sodas outside of the garage for kids.

All the family asks is that neighbors bring their own chairs to sit on and if they can, make a cash donation of any amount they want to help offset the cost of the pizzas.

“It’s easy,” Emily said. “We start around 5 (p.m.) and go until around 10. Some people come and stay for the whole night; some show up around 7. People are everywhere, all over my front yard and my driveway and the greenbelt. It’s very low-key, no pressure. A couple of my friends came up to me and they were like, ‘We are so glad that you do this; it’s the glue that keeps everyone together.’ see

FRIENDSGIVING page 56

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SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Chuck Wagon Cook-Off satisfied this judge’s sweet tooth

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Staff

I channeled my inner cowgirl and satisfied my sweet tooth while judging desserts at the 8th Annual Chandler Chuck Wagon CookOff at Tumbleweed Ranch earlier this month.

Several teams from the Valley – as well as Colorado, Las Vegas and Texas – cooked meat, beans, bread, potatoes and dessert using only ingredients that ranchers would have had access to in the 1880s.

I felt like I was traveling back in time as I walked in my long, brown boots up the dusty entrance to the historic Tumbleweed Ranch, hearing a fiddle playing and smelling smoke from campfires.

Teams of men and women were hard at work cooking biscuits, meat and other food in Dutch ovens over fire pits heated with mesquite wood with their authentic chuckwagons nearby. They wore dresses, cowboy hats, boots and other clothes cowboys and ranchers would have worn during the time period when ranchers drove their herds of cattle to railheads.

As someone who considers it quite a feat just to make brownies from a storebought mix in my 21st century oven, I was impressed to see chefs creating complete meals with cooking equipment used more than 100 years ago on the sunny, warm day.

My excitement was building as I wandered the grounds checking out the fun names assigned to the different chuckwagons, including Cowgirls Forever, Curly Cue Camp and Biscuitflats Wagon.

Some adorable little boys handed out

Ellen and Mark Stewart. Everyone talked about how seriously the competitors take the event as the winners will go on to a national contest.

I talked to Francois Louw, who came from Houston, to serve as a bread judge and also help some of the chuckwagon cooks.

Originally from South Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographert Africa, he sells castiron pots from his Cooking up some chow are, from left, Cindy Hammond, Gary Keither native country through and Geoff Alson. his company Potjie Pot free coffee at a stand near a wagon with a USA. He said the pots wooden sign that said “Steer Bucks Coffee.” are what Boers, similar to what we consider I chatted with the trick roper and tried cowboys, used in South Africa in the 1800s. my city slicker hand at twirling the rope Councilmembers Ellen and Stewart in a circle. I had fun trying, but let’s just joined me at the table, where we waited say I shouldn’t quit my day job anytime to judge desserts. We felt lucky and eager soon. It is harder than it looks. to have the chance to sample 10 different I drank some delicious old-fashioned desserts, including cobbler, buckles, root bee, served in a commemorative upside-down cake and bread pudding, chuckwagon metal cup and sold by one made with sugar plums. Some of the sweet of the many vendors, and headed to the creations in bread also had apples in them. judges’ tent. Friendly City of Chandler Tiffani Egnor, curator of education at employees and members of the nonprofit Chandler Museum, which co-produced the Pardners of Tumbleweed Ranch, greeted Chuck Wagon Cook-Off with the Pardners me and thanked me for serving as a judge. of Tumbleweed Ranch, explained we would Some of the other Chandler officials who score each dessert with a rating from 1 to 10 in were judges included Mayor Jay Tibshraeny, the categories of appearance, aroma and taste.

Police Chief Sean Duggan, Vice Mayor I felt like a judge on “Top Chef” – minus Kevin Hartke and councilmembers Nora the credentials or culinary experience – as

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I smelled the various desserts presented by Egnor. Many of them had a similar, fruity smell and rich taste, some with an amazing cinnamon flavor. Some were crunchy and others smooth and even though Egnor said we didn’t have to finish each one, it was hard to put my fork down as I indulged.

It was the first time I had consumed 10 desserts in the span of about 45 minutes and filled up on so many sweets before having lunch.

But I would do it again in a heartbeat.

The chuckwagon bakers/cooks could give a lot of restaurateurs a run for their money with their innovative, well-made desserts. It was also great knowing how we were eating fresh, real food – not frozen or made with artificial ingredients.

As if the pleasure of eating so many interesting desserts wasn’t enough, after our judging duties were over, we were each given full meals from the chuckwagon teams. The organizers mixed up the foods so we had different items to try.

My lunch had a tasty chicken-fried steak, chopped sirloin, baked beans, a biscuit and mouth-watering potatoes with bacon. The icing on the cake was in fact, a cinnamon-flavored, cake filled with plums.

We were given to-go boxes, just in case we couldn’t finish our lunches (most of us couldn’t) and beautiful chuckwagon stainless steel tumblers as thank-you gifts.

But the experience itself was a gift enough.

I got a break from city life and a taste of old-fashioned delights from years gone by. see

COOK-OFF page 53

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NEIGHBORS

COOK-OFF from page 53

Chucking the Microwave Photos by Kimberly Carrillo/Staff Photographer

Old-fashioned cooking over an open fire highlighted the eighth annual Chandler Chuck Wagon CookOff at Tumbleweed Ranch. Participants included, clockwise from uppper left: Roy Dalton, Steve Cassat, Wyatt Colmes (left) and Caleb Johnson, Tona Stallard, Rex Dalton again, Susan Richins and Grant Dalton. Cooks used ingredients that people used more than a century ago in the Old West to create dinner and even dessert. A number of local officials joined SanTan Sun News Assistant Managing Editor Colleen Sparks in judging the fare.

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NEIGHBORS 54

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Christian group plans shoebox-gift project in Chandler STAFF

While some people already are counting the days to Christmas, a group of Ahwatukee and East Valley families are counting the days to Operation Christmas Child.

They are part of the annual national project by the nonprofit Samaritan’s Purse, which aims to send decorated plastic shoeboxes filled with toys and necessities to thousands of needy children around the world. The group’s national collection week ends Nov. 20.

“We are motivated by not only the needs of the children internationally but also the impact on individuals packing boxes,” said regional coordinator Robin Earle of Chandler, echoing the project’s theme of “reaching children and families on both sides of the box.”

Samaritan’s Purse has distributed shoebox gifts to children in over 130 countries since 1993, and more than 12 million received one last year. Earle noted that boxes packed by Arizonans last year were delivered to kids in India, Indonesia, the Philippines and Ukraine The idea behind the project is simple: Pack a shoebox with school supplies, toiletries and small toys. Prohibited items include toothpaste, candy, liquids, perishable food and war-related toys.

The containers can be pre-decorated photo-storage boxes or plastic or conven-

Special to the SanTan Sun News

Operation Christmas Child regional coordinator Robin Earle of Chandler briefs a group of volunteers before they pack shoeboxes. Through the program, Samaritan’s Purse has distributed shoebox gifts to children in over 130 countries since 1993.

tional shoeboxes with tops and bottoms gift-wrapped separately so they can be checked before they are shipped. Donors also are asked to donate $9 per box to defray shipping costs.

Two separate teams are covering the East Valley.

The Southeast Valley Team covers Apache Junction, Gilbert, Globe, Mesa, Queen Creek and San Tan Valley.

Its central drop-off location is Harvest East Valley, 1120 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert.

It will be open 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 18, 1-4 p.m. Nov. 19 and 1-7 p.m. Nov. 20.

Other drop-off locations can be found by entering a ZIP code at samaritanspurse.org/occ.

Earle coordinates the South Mountain Team, which covers Ahwatukee, Chandler and Tempe.

Its new central drop-off is Chandler First Baptist Church, 3405 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. It will be open daily noon-5 p.m. through Nov. 19 and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 20.

Earle said her family has been part of Operation Christmas Child for 24 years.

“Our family started packing boxes when the kids were preschoolers and now they’re getting married,” she said. “How time flies!”

Three years ago, she participated in a shoebox distribution in the Philippines, where pastors invited children from their communities to receive gifts.

The country had been hit with a typhoon and a powerful earthquake.

“People were literally walking on rubble and were so grateful for our gifts of love,” Earle said.

Samaritan’s Purse is a nondenominational evangelical Christian organization providing spiritual and physical aid to hurting people around the world.

Since 1970, it has helped victims of war, poverty, natural disasters, disease and famine and bases its name on the Gospel story of the Good Samaritan. It describes itself as an organization that “serves the church worldwide to promote the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.”

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SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

EVENTS

NOVEMBER 23-24 Thanksgiving Day holiday, City offices closed 25

Small Business Saturday - Shop Chandler!

24-26 Nutcracker, Center for the Arts, 782-2680 30

Downtown Chandler Farmers Market, Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 855-3539

DECEMBER 2

Tumbleweed Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights, Downtown Chandler, 782-2669

3, 14, 21 Downtown Chandler Farmers Market, Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 855-3539 4

City Council Study Session/Regular meeting, Council Chambers, 782-2180

6

PHXEV Angel Investor Workshop, ASU Chandler Innovation Center, 782-3034

7

City Council meeting, Council Chambers, 782-2180

7,8

Polar Express, Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 782-2908

7, 9, 16 Pictures with Santa at Santa’s House, Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 782-2735 9

Chandler Fire, Health & Medical Holiday Toy

15

Downtown Chandler Art Walk, Dr. A.J.

21

Sonoran Sunset Series: The Real Thing

Nominate Chandler volunteers Volunteering is about giving, contributing and helping other individuals and the community at large. It is working with others to make a meaningful contribution to a better community. The City of Chandler and countless Chandler-based organizations rely on volunteers to help with a variety of needs – cleaning up parks, serving or delivering food to the needy, processing donations and much more. Volunteers deliver out of the goodness of their hearts and not for a paycheck. They can’t be taken for granted and recognizing them is important.

The City of Chandler, the Chandler Non-Profit Coalition and the faithbased and nonprofit group For Our City are accepting applications for the 2018 Volunteer Recognition Awards. Applications are online at chandleraz.gov/volunteer100, and are due by Friday, Dec. 8. Eight award categories are available, so get your nominations ready to submit.

The selected recipients will be honored during a recognition breakfast in February 2018. For more information about the awards or the nomination process, call 782-2214.

Vice Mayor Kevin Hartke with Sunbeam Award winner Alan Zaben smile during last year’s recognition event.

Emergency preparation is key

Take the City’s budget survey

Preparedness plays a huge role in community safety and prevention.

During emergency situations, public safety officials are deployed to handle the most critical incidents. That’s why individuals must be prepared to care for your loved ones and surrounding neighbors.

The Chandler Fire, Health & Medical (CFHM) Department is offering a free training course in December for Chandler residents who want to learn how to take care of themselves, their family, neighborhood and the community during an emergency or disaster. Basic CERT training will be held on Saturday, Dec. 2 and Dec. 9, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., both days.

The classes will be conducted at the Chandler Fire Training Center, 3550 S. Dobson Road.

The Basic CERT course teaches participants about the types of hazards that might affect Chandler, and examines the roles and responsibilities of various organizations within the community, such as police and fire departments, other government agencies, public utilities and nonprofits. Constructing family emergency kits for home and vehicles also is a critical part of community preparedness.

The training is free, but space is limited. To register, call 782-2120 or email ChandlerFire@chandleraz.gov.

Enter Nature Photo Contest

Drive, Chandler Fashion Center, 782-2120 Chandler Park, 855-3539 Band includes Holiday Songs, Veterans Oasis Park, 782-2890 21

Downtown Chandler Family Flix featuring

25

Christmas Day holiday, City offices closed

27

Snow Day, Veterans Oasis Park, 782-2890

“Elf”, Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 855-3539

JANUARY 10

PHXEV Angel Investor Workshop, ASU

13

Chandler Multicultural Festival and Chandler

Chandler Innovation Center, 782-3034 International Film Festival, Downtown Stage, 782-2214 14

One: Candlelight Vigil for Dr. Martin Luther

18

Sonoran Sunset Series: Rockin’ Memories,

King Jr., Downtown Stage, 782-2214 Veterans Oasis Park, 782-2890

For event details, visit

chandleraz.gov

or call the Chandler Special Events Hotline at

782-2735

It’s that time again! The City of Chandler is starting its budget process and encourages residents to provide their thoughts about the community and its future. Chandler residents may complete the online survey at chandleraz.gov/budget.

The survey will be available through the end of December.

Survey results are shared with the Mayor, City Councilmembers, City Manager and staff to assist in the formulation of the City’s financial plan. Paper copies, in either English or Spanish, may be picked up at various City facilities, including libraries, community centers and the City Hall lobby. Paper copies also may be downloaded from the web site. Completed paper surveys should be returned to City facilities or mailed to the City of Chandler, Budget Division - Citizen Surveys, Mail Stop 609, P.O. Box 4008, Chandler, AZ 85244-4008.

For more information, call 782-2252.

Winning entry from last year by Greg Wickenburg

Chandler area residents are invited to focus their lenses on nature and then enter their photographs in the City’s annual Nature Photo Contest organized by Chandler’s Recreation Division. In its seventh year, the contest has resulted in some magnificent images captured from around the community. Entries are being accepted now through Feb. 28, 2018, in two categories: What You See Is What You Get (no alterations) and Digitally Enhanced (artistic alterations encouraged). Ribbons will be awarded in two age groups; 13 and under and 14 and over. Photo entries must come from a Chandler park, program or event and can be submitted digitally online at chandleraz.gov/naturephotocontest, or in person at the Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Road.

For more information, call 782-2890.

Winning entry from last year by Mark Scilley

Ocotillo Road improvements underway The City’s program of improving older arterial streets in south Chandler is taking another step forward this month as work begins on the widening of Ocotillo Road between Cooper Road and Norman Way. Standard Construction Company started work on the $2.1 project earlier this month, and will spend the next four and a half months adding a second eastbound lane to Ocotillo Road east of Cooper. Portions of Ocotillo Road already have been completed by developers and other City projects. This work will complete the improvements to four lanes with bike lanes, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, street lighting, traffic signals, storm drainage, landscaping, utility relocation and wet utilities. The project’s initial impact on traffic will involve the shifting of all traffic to the north side of Ocotillo Road, allowing crews to begin working on the south side. Traffic then will switch to the south side of Ocotillo Road while improvements are made to the north side. The roadway will remain open throughout construction and access will be maintained to homes and businesses. For more information, call 782-3789.

NEIGHBORS 56

FRIENDSGIVING from page 51 It’s one night where we can just chill and catch up. It started out so organically.”

She added that during a time when people are constantly navigating Facebook and Instagram or texting on their phones, it is great to give people a chance to socialize face-to-face.

Emily said people from “all walks of life,” including friends from church and the schools their children attend, come to the Friendsgiving. Most live in Gilbert, Queen Creek and Chandler. She has seen friendships form as a result of people meeting at her events.

On Thanksgiving day, the Ewings go to Emily’s parents’ house, where they eat a more formal dinner with their family members and some friends. Emily enjoys the mix of the casual Friendsgiving with a big

group and the more polished dinner at her parents’ house.

“In that two-day period, I pretty much see all the people who are important in my life,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to have a huge family.”

Besides creating a fun, family-like atmosphere, some people also use Friendsgiving as a way to help people who are less fortunate.

National, anti-hunger organization Share Our Strength, inspired by the quickly growing Friendsgiving trend, through its No Kid Hungry campaign is asking people to support children in need this holiday season.

Friendsgiving for No Kid Hungry urges people hosting Friendsgiving celebrations to add a fundraising aspect to their festivities. The organization said for every $1 people donate to No Kid Hungry through “Friendsgiving,” a child in need will get

access to 10 meals.

Each Friendsgiving host who signs up will get access to many resources to help them hold a successful event and motivate others to donate to the cause, including décor templates, fundraising tips, a planning checklist and fundraising prizes.

The hosts can also get exclusive recipes and tips from well-known culinary supports including William Elliott, mixologist and bar director of Maison Premiere and Melissa and Emily Elsen, bakers and founders of Four & Twenty Blackbirds.

Food Network personality and cookbook author Melissa d’Arabian held a Friendsgiving helping No Kid Hungry in October to teach her daughters the importance of giving back.

Friendsgiving for No Kid Hungry is hoping to raise more than $500,000 from hosts around the country this fall, which would

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

link hungry kids to up to five-million meals.

To learn more about Friendsgiving for No Kid Hungry, visit nokidhungry.org.

Chandler Service Club, an all-volunteer women’s organization that helps Chandler children and families in need with food, clothes, education and mentoring, is reaching out on Nov. 22, the day before Thanksgiving.

On that day, 40 Chandler Unified School District seniors, as well as Flower Girls from the Service Club, are going to serve pie to children at the Chandler Boys & Girls Club.

The Chandler Service Club buys the pies with donors’ dollars to help the kids. CSC’s Flower Girl Program encourages girls in their senior year of high school to participate in community service experiences, selfimprovement seminars, social events and leadership opportunities.

Sun Lakes crisis program looking for volunteers

BY BRIAN CURRY Guest Writer

The Community Assistance Program of the Arizona Fire & Medical Authority/ Sun Lakes fire district is looking to add some new volunteers to the ranks of their CR231 crisis response team.

The CAP program runs under the direction of the AFMA/Sun Lakes.

Two-member teams are dispatched to medical calls, fires, motor vehicle accidents and other emergencies.

While firefighters and medical personnel tend to the ill or injured,

the CAP team works with other family members, friends or neighbors who need assistance.

This may involve anything from providing transportation to the hospital, telephoning family members, dealing with pets in the home or providing information about various agencies and resources that may help in a time of crisis or sometimes just offering some calm conversation and emotional support.

Prospective CAP members do not have to live in Sun Lakes.

They must be in general good health, have a good driving record, pass a

background check and be able to work three six-hour shifts and attend one monthly meeting within a calendar month.

Training will be provided in CPR and first aid, driver training, radios and the use of the mobile computer terminal that is used in CAP’s response vehicle.

Prospective recruits will be required to complete two preliminary ride-alongs with a working on-duty CAP team to learn how the team operates and to experience what a “typical” shift is like.

New to the CAP program is a stilldeveloping membership that while not responding on emergency calls would

assist the fire district in a variety of ways.

Different programs involving the installation of vehicle child seats, fire inspections and courier travel will be implemented in the future – all with the goal of assisting the fire and emergency medical care for Sun Lakes.

If you’d like to help your fellow man in their time of need and this type of community service interests you contact the CAP team via e-mail at CAPcoordinator@afma.az.gov with your name and number.

A Community Assistance Program member will get right back to you.

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SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

NEIGHBORS

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Kyrene honors 11 teachers in its Chandler schools STAFF

Kyrene School District values its teachers – and so do local businesses.

Recently, 11 teachers in the district’s Chandler schools were given gift cards through the Kyrene Values Teachers program, a partnership between the district and business leaders.

The program “recognizes teachers and school personnel who are remarkable in their efforts to ensure that students are ‘Catching Up’ and ‘Moving Up’ to meet and exceed grade level proficiency,” said spokeswoman Bonny Colinsek.

“We recognize the critical role teachers and school personnel play in student achievement and the vital influence they have on the future of our community. Decades of research have shown that the quality of the teacher in the classroom has the most significant impact on student achievement. Quite simply, teachers matter more than any other aspect of schooling,” she added.

Kyrene Superintendent said, “Recent polling suggests that the majority of Arizonans recognize the importance of education, and ensuring fair compensation for the work our teachers do day in and day out to educate our kids, must be a high priority for our state.”

“Kyrene will continue our commitment to addressing teacher compensation within the limits of the funding we receive from the state, but a program like this acknowledges in some small way, that we appreciate all that they do,” she added.

John Kloc, corporate real estate benefits director for HomeBenefitIQ and sponsor – with Basha’s – of Kyrene Values Teachers said, “Teachers are very special to me.”

“We are a Kyrene family, and I know how hard our Kyrene teachers work to educate students.

As a business leader, who depends on having a quality, educated workforce, I value the role they play in keeping our economy strong. Without their dedication, it would be hard for businesses like mine, to continue to be successful,” Kloc added.

Elementary teachers who were recognized included Brisas teachers Patricia Foster, Amanda Herting and Catherine Koshick; Natalie Richardson and Jasmine Yap at Cielo; and Susan Juetten of Mirada.

Middle school honorees were Aprende teachers Heather Kyrene School Districtt Staudohar, Sarah Coombs, Tonia Recognized by Kyrene School District and local businesses for their hard work were Mirada Elementary teacher Deer and Amy Furman; and Pueblo Susan Juetten, left, and Cielo teacher Natalie Richardson, left, poctured here with Superintendent Jan Vesely. teacher Beth Honeyman.

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SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Arts

59

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Photos by Kellan Meko/Ballet Etudes

Dancers in the Garland Corps rehearse the Waltz of the Flowers at Ballet Etudes in Gilbert. The dancer in the front is Audrey Sullivan and the dancer right behind her is Jessica Hardin.

This year, ‘The Nutcracker’ offers new treats, twists

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Staff

Audiences can expect to see new choreography and other unexpected magic when they watch Ballet Etudes perform its 31st annual production of “The Nutcracker” this month and next in Chandler.

About 100 dancers under age 18, joined by about 12 to 15 adults playing the Sugar Plum Fairy, parents of children and other more mature roles, will hit the stage in the classic holiday ballet Nov. 24-26 and Dec. 1-3 at Chandler Center for the Arts. They will dance the magical tale at Mesa Arts Center Dec. 8-17.

The colorful Christmas ballet adopted from the story “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” by author E.T.A. Hoffmann, tells the tale of Clara, a girl who receives a nutcracker from her godfather, a wizardly toymaker, and the toy comes to life.

After a battle between the toys and an Army of mice, Clara and the nutcracker, who transforms into a prince, travel to the Land of Snow and the Land of Sweets, where they encounter waltzing flowers, dancing chocolate and other types of candy and other treats.

At least five of the dancers in Ballet Etudes’ production of “The Nutcracker” live in Chandler, and they are all “very talented and very hardworking,” said Kellan Meko, resident choreographer and marketing manager for Ballet Etudes.

Ballet Etudes is a pre-professional youth ballet company in Gilbert in existence as a nonprofit since 1987. Meko said one of the goals of her mother, Ballet Etudes artistic director Sharon Seder Meko, is to “give the audience something new, whether it’s a new costume or a new set” every year.

This year the Nutcracker costume theater-goer, it’s a fun ballet. There’s Road in Gilbert. is new, as well as the Dew Drop Fairy really something for everyone. It’s an For tickets and more information costume for the Waltz of the Flowers uplifting ballet.” about Ballet Etudes’ “The Nutcracker” soloist, Kellan said.

“The Nutcracker” auditions were open at Chandler Center for the Arts: New snow machines will allow snow to anyone, but dancers who already chandlercenter.org. To buy tickets for to fall continuously in a snow scene of are part of Ballet Etudes company are the company’s performances of “The “The Nutcracker,” she added. guaranteed a role in that ballet, as well as Nutcracker” at Mesa Arts Center: Dancers will perform new “Cinderella” in the spring. mesaartscenter.com. choreography Kellan created for the Company members still must court scene and new choreography audition so they are placed in the made by choreographer Astrit Zejnati appropriate roles. Young children to for Spanish Hot Chocolate. Zejnati had adults can take dance classes at BE danced with the Pacific Northwest Ballet School of Dance, which is the home and Ballet Arizona. of Ballet Etudes, 2401 East Baseline Another twist is while the Spanish dance is normally performed by one male and one female dancer, this season two female dancers will do the honors.

“It’s kind of a little battle between the two, more dramatic,” Kellan said.

The audience will also see a slightly different ending to the holiday ballet this year.

“I think everyone will enjoy the changes that we made,” Kellan said.

“A lot of people who go see ‘The Nutcracker’ with their families now tend to have gone and seen it as a child with their families. So much music in the ballet is Left: Bridget Morgan of Mesa rehearses as the Bon Bon Fairy for Ballet Etudes’ performance of “The Nutcracker.” easily recognizable. Even The ballet will be performed at Chandler Center for the Arts and Mesa Arts Center. Right: Alyssa Minsky of Phoenix if you’re not a regular rehearses as the Dew Drop Fairy from the Waltz of the Flowers in Ballet Etudes’ “The Nutcracker.”

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ARTS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Community, city officials celebrate brewery’s new mural

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Staff

A mural celebrating a local brewery and the booming downtown Chandler business scene is brightening up an alley.

A party was held to mark the new mural outside SanTan Brewery at the business on South San Marcos Place last month.

Artists Noe “Such Styles” Baez and his son, “Champ Styles,” were chosen in a contest to create the mural on the brewery’s exterior wall.

The goal of the project was to improve the aesthetic appeal of the alley behind the brewery with the aim of encouraging other surrounding building owners and businesses to also enhance the look of their exteriors.

The Chandler Arts Commission and SanTan Brewing Company held the contest. The Arts Commission, with input from the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership and SanTan Brewing Company, narrowed down the applicants to three finalists.

The other finalists were Lauren Lee of Phoenix and Michael Schwartz of Tucson.

“The San Tan wall draws a new attention to the area and has been so well received from the community,” said Such Styles said. “Champ and I have witnessed reactions firsthand, from the youth to elders that have come through and have all managed to say or share a

kind word and even snapped a pic of themselves in front of the wall piece.

“They seem to identify one way or another with something that is in the mural piece. The transition of the many colors and iconic objects make it an enjoyable piece. It seems to have taken on a new ownership from the community, and we feel very humbled that we were able to make that happen.”

The judges wanted designs that would “best activate the alley and reflect the area and brewery,” according to a spokesperson.

The judging team said in a written statement, “We gave all three finalists the same guidelines and asked them to include imagery of the area, brewing agriculture and St. Joseph, to whom the brewery was dedicated.”

Artists were given the flexibility to “apply their own creativity,” the group added.

Those evaluating the contestants also said they wanted to have a mural people will share on social media that will “become easily recognizable.” Their vision was for the artwork to create awareness that people should visit downtown to see what’s going on there.

Such Styles and “Champ Styles live in Tempe and have created murals all over the Valley.

To watch a video of the artists painting the mural: instagram.com/p/ BZwSzcFFaik/?taken-by=visiongalleryaz.

Photos courtesy of Chandler Center for the Arts

Top: (From left) Chandler City Councilmember Mark Stewart, City of Chandler visual arts coordinator Peter Bugg, artist Noe “Such Styles” Baez, Chandler Vice Mayor Kevin Hartke, Chandler City Councilmember Rene Lopez, SanTan Brewery owner Anthony Canecchia and SanTan Brewery partner and CFO Heather Sterling celebrate the new mural outside of SanTan Brewery in downtown Chandler. Not pictured is artist “Champ Styles.” Bottom Left: City of Chandler visual arts coordinator Peter Bugg tells the crowd how the mural process came together at a celebration for the mural on Oct. 30 at SanTan Brewery. Bottom Right: A father-and-son artistic team, Noe “Such Styles” Baez and “Champ Styles” were chosen in a contest to paint a mural outside SanTan Brewery on the brewery’s wall in downtown Chandler.

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SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

ARTS

61

Chandler opens entries for annual nature photo contest SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Each year, photographers from around the Chandler area are invited to focus their lenses on nature and then enter their photographs in the city’s annual Nature Photo Contest organized by Chandler’s Recreation Division.

In its seventh year, “the contest has resulted in some magnificent images captured from around the community,” a city spokesman said.

Entries are being accepted now through Feb. 28 in two categories: What You See Is What You Get (no alterations) and Digitally Enhanced (artistic alterations encouraged). Ribbons will be awarded in two age groups; 13 and under and 14 and over.

Photo entries must come from a Chandler park, program or event and can be submitted digitally online at chandleraz.gov/naturephotocontest, or in person at the Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Road.

“We know that residents take amazing pictures at our parks, and we want to celebrate nature by offering this fun contest,” said Dexter Belling, the recreation coordinator organizing the contest. “The photo can be taken with a quality camera or even with a smartphone. The point is to capture those meaningful moments and share it with others.”

Winning entries will be displayed in the ECC lobby with a blue ribbon affixed next March to the winning images in each category. Information: 480-782-2890.

Courtesy of the City of Chandler

Left: This prize-winning photo, titled “Roadrunner” was taken by Greg Wickenburg. Right: Mark Scilley shot this winning entry, which he titled “Cactus.”

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ARTS

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Ahwatukee band Into Chaos members into many kinds of music

BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA Contributor

Matt, Jackie and Zack LeFevers have found a musical niche that fits their tastes and those of their enthusiastic fan base.

It’s not exactly easy-listening music – a fact for which the Ahwatukee-grown trio offers no apologies.

“A Door of Ash and Alder” is the second album for Into Chaos, a band that describes its music as “melodic death metal with guitars and yelling.”

The group comprises brothers Matt and Zack LeFevers and Matt’s wife, Jackie.

Despite the peaceful yet stark soaring-cliffs-and-water scene on the CD cover, don’t be misled. Once you’re past the one-minute, seven-second Gregorian-style chant album prelude, you’re in heavy-metal country.

You’ll find these three singing a different tune, or tunes, at Chandler’s One Church. There, Matt leads the church band and Jackie often serves as worship leader. Zack can be found sitting in occasionally on drums.

Divergent are their recordings, too.

Matt and Jackie, both 32, have a Christian-themed CD, “Sky Above, Ground Beneath,” that will be released by their band Map & Compass. They are well-established in the Christian songwriting field, published by the Convergence Music Project.

Special to the San Tan Sun News

Matt, Jackie and Zack LeFevers of Ahwatukee make up the band Into Chaos.

Matt, who writes lyrics for Into Chaos and holds a degree in studio recording, explained: “Each of us listens to a variety of genres, and enjoys playing indie, metal,

punk, folk, country – which would make for either one very strangesounding band, or five normal ones.

Into Chaos is where we get to hone a very different set of skills than any of

the others.”

Both Matt and Jackie are Mountain Pointe High School grads.

There are other bands of different genres in which the LeFevers regularly SEE

CHAOS PAGE 64

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ARTS

SE T T I N G T H E STA N DA R D. . .

Hale Centre Theatre

“Meet Me in St. Louis” stars Holly Payne as Esther Smith, Jacob Goodman as John Truitt and Lily Nelson as Tootie Smith.

‘Meet Me in St. Louis’ a charming musical

BY DON ANDREWS Contributor

Hale Centre Theatre in Gilbert presents “Meet Me in St. Louis,” a charming Broadway musical based on the 1944 film that rocketed Judy Garland to new fame as an adult.

The story transports audiences to the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis, where they meet Mr. and Mrs. Smith, their four daughters and one son.

Thereafter, romantic suitors, comedic misunderstandings and jovial pranks mean nonstop entertainment.

The show offers evergreen songs such as “Meet Me in St. Louie,” “Louie,” “The Boy Next Door,” “Skip to My Lou,”

“A Day in New York,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”

The movie was nominated for four Oscars and named one of the Ten Best Musicals by the American Film Institute.

The Broadway production in 1989-1990 was nominated for four Tony Awards and won New York’s Theatre World Award.

Meet Me in St. Louis plays through Nov. 25 at Hale Centre Theatre, 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert. The musical is directed and choreographed by multiariZoni Award winner Cambrian James with Lincoln Wright as music director.

Tickets are $32 for adults and $20 for youth ages 5-17. Details: call 480-4971181 or visit haletheatrearizona.com.

Hale’s classic ‘Carol’ coming next month The Hale’s holiday classic, “A Christmas Carol,” performs in December.

On New Year’s Eve, it ushers 2018 with the hilarious comedy “See How They Run,” which plays through early February.

“Life Could Be a Dream,” a jukebox musical romp, runs from mid-January through mid-April.

The Broadway smash hit musical “No, No, Nanette” begins in midFebruary and plays through the end of March.

GOT NEWS? Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647

“The Importance of Being Earnest,” the hilarious satire on Victorian manners by Oscar Wilde, will run April 5 through May 12.

“Big Fish,” an entertaining story set to music, is next from mid-May through the end of June.

“Sister Act,” the uproarious musical comedy about a disco queen who takes refuge in a convent, concludes Hale’s 14th season, playing at Hale from July 6 through Aug. 18.

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ARTS

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SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

CHAOS FROM PAGE 62 play. But for drummer Zack, 29, Into Chaos remains his favorite.

“I played in several bands in high school as lead guitarist, but eventually taught myself to play drums because we could never find a drummer.”

Zack recalled his first drumming gig was “trial by fire” as his brother had a show at Phix, a downtown venue now shuttered, and found the band without a drummer.

“I had barely picked it (drumming) up, so I ended up practicing for like six hours a day leading up to it. After that, I realized that drums were my new passion,” said Zack, who also plays guitar, bass, banjo, violin and piano.

The brothers’ interest in heavy metal started as youngsters growing up listening to their dad’s collection of metal albums. Both were preteens when they began taking guitar lessons with former Ahwatukee teacher Mark Arendse.

“I started taking guitar lessons when I was twelve, with the specific intention of learning how to play an Iron Maiden song called “Wasted Years,” and no other plan beyond that,” Matt laughed.

“A few years after I started lessons, I was already writing songs for Into Chaos. I was 15 when I started working on some of the songs that would end up on this album and our previous one ‘The Living Walk Among the Dead,’ released in 2009,” Matt said.

“Into Chaos has been something I’ve

tinkered with for over half my life, but it didn’t actually go anywhere until Zack and Jackie started helping me with it.”

Jackie (née Roche) LeFevers, met her husband-to-be when they were Mountain Pointe sophomores. They’ve been married six years and have a 11/2-year-old son.

voice lessons. My other instruments – bass, ukelele, bamboo flute, and didgeridoo are self-taught.”

“Matt and I started making music together in 2004 as part of my assignment to a Mesa Community College ‘Introduction to Shakespeare’ course,” she recalled.

“My professor basically gave us

I played in several bands in high school as lead “ guitarist, but eventually taught myself to play drums because we could never find a drummer.”

– Into Chaos drummer Zack LeFevers

“I studied voice for six years with vocal coach Gloria Rich, formerly of Ahwatukee.

I also had choral training at Mountain Pointe in the A Capella and Downbeat choirs,” she said.

“My parents made an effort to expose me to different genres of music when I was growing up. They took me to the symphony, pop concerts, musicals and Christian worship concerts, and then on road trips, we’d listen to The Doors, the Beatles, Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Simon and Garfunkel – it was across the board,” she recalled, adding: “If I was interested in trying an instrument, they found a way. I did violin and piano before I landed on

Featured Artist: Paul Hopman

free rein on what we wanted to do for our final as long as it utilized one of Shakespeare’s sonnets,” she said. “I asked Matt to help me make Sonnet 97 into a song – he wrote the instrumentation and I arranged the words and wrote the vocal melody. I got an A+ and it helped bring Matt and I together musically.”

Into Chaos has a solid and faithful fan base, among them Kennedy (Kenny) Rice who also records with the trio in the band This Glass Embrace when he’s in Phoenix. They’re currently writing their fifth album.

“I’ve been a fan of Into Chaos for literally as long as it has existed, and have been anticipating the second album for quite some time,” said Rice,

who presently lives in Germany with his wife and two children.

“I’m drawn to the band because of the intricacies in the music as well as the brilliant lyrical content. Jackie and Zackreally bring Matt’s words and concepts to life,” added Rice, a professional wrestler for New European Championship Wrestling who performs under the name “Dante Kennedy.”

“I use the title track from the new Into Chaos album as my entrance theme,” said Kennedy.

The Into Chaos band members all have day jobs: Matt is a sales manager at Trustee Services of Arizona; Zack is media director with Six Degrees Digital Media, which builds websites and content creation for businesses.

Jackie is a project coordinator in the Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University and is on the faculty in the ASU Teachers College.

After working on this project for the past two years, the trio is taking some time off celebrate the completion of “A Door of Ash and Alder,” a concept album about a couple who discovers a door leading to an ancient planet.

The CD, “A Door of Ash and Alder,” is available on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify and Bandcamp. To hear individual tracks with lyrics, see intochaosmetal. bandcamp.com. The $10 CD includes a 12-page booklet with lyrics and liner notes, and the digital album is available for $8.

Links to pages can be found on facebook.com/intochaosmetal.

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SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Faith

65

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Spiritual Reflections

God extends His hand during times of tragedy

BY RABBI IRWIN WIENER

It hardly seems possible. Colorado, Texas, Nevada. Places we think about, places we learn about, places that evoke memories of fun and laughter, and now tears.

How can we make sense of it all? How can we offer the consolation and comfort needed so badly in such trying times? What has happened to our beloved America?

These thoughts came to mind as I sat glued to the television screen in disbelief after the deadly mass shootings at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, on Nov. 5. I began to recite the 23rd Psalm…… “Your staff is there to support me.”

These words, written by King David during a very trying time in his life, indicate his faith and devotion to the salvation offered by God in times of distress. He was fleeing for his life from the threats of King Saul. Feeling nothing but despair, he turned to God and eloquently described his understanding of the blessings associated with the gift of life.

David found the courage to turn his unfortunate despondency into a vision of collective redemption.

He inspired himself and in turn all Israel with the remembrance of the goodness and mercy of God as the Israelites wandered in the desert 40 years in search of their destiny. How can such a God abandon him?

After all, he too wandered aimlessly in the wilderness of hopelessness.

Whenever I read the 23rd Psalm – whether during times of grief or times of sorrowful news – I somehow find comfort. Unfortunately, life is filled with tragedies that often overshadow the wonderful moments of happiness.

Memories somehow travel to unfortunate incidents and shade the glory of marvelous experiences. Moreover, we seem to dwell on the bad and relegate the good to the shadows of anguish.

People live and people die, but what

happens in between can be daunting.

Hearing news that illness has taken hold and has us trapped in a cycle of pain. The news is not so good and the outcome so predictable.

Once there was vibrancy, gaiety and now pain and misery as we wait for the final curtain to come down on our lives, hopes and dreams.

Witnessing the indiscriminate murder of innocent children, men and women leaves us all distraught. Where is the humanity?

Where is civilized society? Where is hope and faith and courage? Tiny babies, children starting to understand the value of life, parents and grandparents enjoying the thrill of continuity – all shattered in an instant.

Where is God? Why is this happening?

Where are the days filled with laughter and celebration? We search for answers and realize that there are none. There is tragedy.

Such is now the case. The news is all bad – no hope – just the realization of finality.

We need to remember that we have a partner. God is our partner. Sometimes in our despair we think that no one cares, especially God and we question the very existence of our Creator because of our pain.

We cry out for answers, never truly understanding that God is right here, by our side, and at times even carrying us in His arms to rest our weary feet from the sad parts of our journey.

Margaret Fishback Powers wrote an essay titled “Footprints.” In it, she writes of a dream she had. She was walking along the beach with her God. As she walked, scenes of her life flashed before her. And with each step she took, she noticed two sets of footprints in the sand, one belonging to her and the other belonging to God. Then, as the last scene of her life flashed, she noticed only one set of footprints. She thought of this as the lowest and saddest time of her life.

She was so troubled and began to question God by reminding Him that He had promised to be with her all the way, all

during her journey of life. She continued to question whether God had remembered His promise and that during her most troublesome time she noticed there was only one set of footprints in the sand.

Her faith seemed to be shattered, and she questioned even more by asking why during her most trying time was God not beside her, walking with her.

Then, she continues her story by explaining what all of us should know but tend to forget: That there is only one set of footprints at the time of our suffering, the time of great despair, because it is then that God carries us. This is why we may see only one set of footprints.

People will constantly ask me these very questions, and I search for answers that will comfort and console. I cannot show frustration nor can I give up. I see pain on the faces of those afflicted and those standing close with no ability to heal or respond to the anticipated emptiness.

God is there to provide a certain balance in life. On the one hand, He extends His hand to lift the spirit, as the other hand understands the affliction.

It is hard to describe this to someone who is going through the ordeal. It is even harder to comprehend the belief that God affords us the opportunity to receive comfort even while He cannot prevent the drama from unfolding.

The Prophet Isaiah reminds us that God will comfort us giving us the ability to cope. We tend to forget the goodness and kindness that we encounter as we move through the journey of life.

We become so engrossed in our distress that we cannot recall the beauty of the steps we take as we move from episode to contentment.

No words can suffice to bring solace to the prospect of death and no actions taken by others will give us the ability to forget the anger and frustration. It is up to us to return to the center of life through reliance on ourselves, our family, our friends, and our appreciation of God, who is there to

Special to SanTan Sun News

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D., leads the Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation. Information: sunlakesjewishcongregation.org

take our hand as we are guided on the path of release-the release of all our burdens.

Where is God? God is everywhere we want him to be and even places where we would least expect. In the Book of Kings, we read that God is not in the wind, not in the earthquake, not in fire, but in a still small voice. That voice is ours reaching out to walk with God in our hour of need because He will hear, He does see, and He can comfort.

The philosopher Spinoza taught that eternity is the very core of God. There is no end. There is continuation of life. There is immortality. There is life after death. There is grace, and there is forgiveness. God made all things both good and not so good; it is up to us to glean the good from among all that there is so that we can enjoy life and expect connection at death.

Watching people go through pangs of torment can be unnerving, but I remember the final words of Psalm 23: “And I will dwell in the house of Lord forever.”

God cares about what you hold in your hands LYNNE HARTKE Contributor

For 55 years, my mother rolled the dough flat, mixing in a sprinkling of flour to keep the pastry cloth from sticking.

I remember as a girl tapping the cookie cutters in the flour to dust all the edges before cutting out the shapes. Turkeys.

Gingerbread men. Hearts.

Several years ago, when my siblings and I sorted through Mom’s belongings in the kitchen, we found the box of cookie cutters in the back of a drawer underneath the spritz maker and the cheese grater.

We opened the cardboard box and spilled out memories – angels, reindeer, stars – traditions decorated with colored sugar, sprinkles, and red hots that melted if you pressed them into the sweet dough before baking.

Two generations sorted through Mom’s cookie cutters that day, each choosing one that held special memories. When all the choosing was done, it was my brother, I believe, who took the box with the remaining cookie cutters and tucked it safely in his suitcase for the flight back to California.

I also chose Mom’s rolling pin.

Mom and Dad were married on a Sunday afternoon in November at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Clark, South Dakota, the weekend before Thanksgiving in 1957.

They honeymooned one night at a nearby hotel with money Dad borrowed from his brother. The next night they stayed at a married sister’s, sleeping on an iron bed that had been outside, that they carried up the stairs for their second night as a married couple.

The following day, the church gave

them a wedding shower. Ninety-two wedding and shower gifts were listed in the wedding book: one set of white pillowcases from Gretchen Gildemiester; one bud vase from Lowell Mohn and Nancy Lee; two white sheets from Sigurd and Christine Hanson; $3 from Aunt Dagney and Uncle Carl.

“We had everything we needed,” Mom once told me. “Except a rolling pin.”

With Thanksgiving the next day, Mom and Dad had traded in a set of snack dishes for a rolling pin at the local store in Clark where Mom had shopped all her life. Dad had received a lot of ribbing as the hen-pecked husband who was going to be kept in line. That evening, Mom picked up her new rolling pin and rolled out the crust for a pumpkin pie.

This Thanksgiving – 60 years later – I will do the same.

When asked about memories of their grandmother, both of my daughters mentioned her hands – hands that prayed. Hands that cooked. Gardened.

Loved. It was impossible to separate my mom from her constantly serving hands.

What do you have in your hands? A computer? A pen? A garden rake? A phone?

A rolling pin? Some may joke and say you should use it to keep people in line, but what if, instead, you used it to love?

Are you known for what you hold in your hands?

“And the Lord asked Moses, ‘What is in your hand?’” Exodus 4:2 -Lynne Hartke is the author of Under a Desert Sky: Redefining Hope, Beauty, and Faith in the Hardest Places. She blogs at lynnehartke.com and is the pastor’s wife at Trinity Christian Fellowship in Chandler.

SPIRITUALITY 66

parents at all levels of Jewish knowledge develop their own parenting philosophies and techniques.

Cost is $99.

Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler 480-855-4333, rabbi@chabadcenter.com

Shalom Chapter of Hadassah 11:30 a.m. second Tuesday of each month Iron Oaks (Oakwood) Clubhouse 24218 S. Oakwood Boulevard, Sun Lakes Cyril, 480-802-0243; Kathy, 480-895-5194; Shirley, 480-883-9159; or Joyce, 480-802-4902.

TUESDAYS

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 Street, Mesa 480-232-3773

Silva Class and Meditation 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays Learn the Silva method with Lois Britland.

Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe 480-792-1800

Spiritual Connections Call ahead to confirm as details occasionally change after print. If you have a recurring monthly support group or meeting to list in Spiritual Connections, email complete details to news@santansun.com.

Career Connectors 8:30 a.m. to noon, fourth Tuesday of month Nonprofit organization connecting professionals in career transition to high-quality resources and hiring companies; each event includes professional career speakers with presentations on relevant job search topics, three to four hiring companies, networking, resume help, career coaches, LinkedIn coaches and business portraits.

Central Christian Church, Gilbert Campus/Student Center, 965 E. Germann Road, Gilbert 480-442-5806, careerconnectors.org Christian Business Networking, Tri-City Chapter – Chandler, Tempe, Mesa 7:15 a.m. Tuesdays Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals.

Crackers and Co. Café, 535 W. Iron Avenue, Mesa Maia, 480-425-0624, 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 Road, Chandler Maia, 480-425-0624, christianbusinessnetworking.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., preceding the service, for fellowship. Youth and toddlers meet during service.

Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center 952 E. Baseline Road, Suite 102, Mesa 480-593-8798, interfaith-community.org Kids’ Sunday School 10 to 11 a.m. Sundays Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe 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 Road, Suite 103, Tempe 480-792-1800 Traditional and Contemporary Services 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 Street, Chandler 480-899-7386, saintmatthewschurch.org

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

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 Road, Room 106, Chandler hope4all@comcast.net, helpovercomingpainfulexperiences.org

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 Road, Chandler, nar-anon.org WEDNESDAYS _____________________________________ Panic Healing 7 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday Receive a 15-minute energetic tuneup.

Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe 480-792-1800 Gong Meditation and Yoga Nidra 7 to 8:30 p.m. third Wednesday Presented by Will Zecco, gong master. Bring yoga mat, blanket and pillow as desired. Love offerings will be accepted.

Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Road, Suite 102, Mesa 480-593-8798, interfaith-community.org “A Course in Miracles” with the Rev. Julianne Lewis 1 to 2:15 p.m. Wednesdays The weekly group is an interactive time of learning and sharing, appropriate for course beginners, as well as longtime students of ACIM. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center 952 E. Baseline Road, Suite 102, Mesa 480-593-8798, interfaith-community.org.

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 Road, Chandler 480-855-4333 or rabbi@chabadcenter.com.

MONDAYS The Art of Parenting 7:30 p.m. Mondays Six-session course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute and presented by Rabbi Mendy Deitsch of Chabad of the East Valley, designed to help see

Chandler United Methodist Church Making and Deploying Disciples for over 100 Years.

Open hearts. Open minds. Open doors.

December 2nd @ 1:30 pm Women’s Tea

December 10th @ Both Worships Sunday School Christmas Program

SUNDAY WORSHIP

SUNDAY SCHOOL

9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

9:10 a.m. & 10:40 a.m.

Worship

For Children

ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL 9:00 a.m.

480-963-3360 | www.chandlermethodist.org | 450 E. Chandler Heights Rd.

CONNECTIONS page 67

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

CONNECTIONS from page 66 Grief Care 6:45 p.m. Wednesdays A place to come share your feelings or just listen to others as we try to navigate through our grief.

You don’t have to do it alone.

Epiphany Lutheran Church, South Campus, old church building, 800 W. Ray Road, Room 325, Chandler griefcareaz@gmail.com.

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 Road, Suite 103, Tempe 480-792-1800 Meditation Moments 7 to 8:30 p.m. third Wednesday of the month An interactive time of learning and sharing, appropriate for beginners or longtime students of ACIM. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center 952 E. Baseline Road, Suite 102, Mesa 480-593-8798, interfaith-community.org St. Mathew’s Episcopal Church 12 p.m. Healing and Eucharist service St. Mathew’s Episcopal Church 901 W. Erie Street, Chandler 480-899-7386, saintmatthewschurch.org THURSDAYS Women’s Empowerment & Awakening 7 to 8:30 p.m. third Thursday Release negative beliefs.

Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe 480-792-1800 A Course in Miracles 7 p.m. first, second and fourth Thursday Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe 480-792-1800 Empower Model for Men 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays The three-class series is taught by author Scott E. Clark and designed to offer practical wisdom and tools to help men shift into their higher consciousness, based on the 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 Road,, Suite 103, Tempe 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 Road, Suite 103, Tempe 480-792-1800 FRIDAYS Temple Havurat Emet 7:30 p.m. first Friday of each month Lecky Center, Robson Library 9330 E. Riggs Road, Sun Lakes templehavuratemet.org

SPIRITUALITY

Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center 952 E. Baseline Road, Suite 102, Mesa 480-593-8798, interfaith-community.org OTHER Forever Marriage Ministries Marriage Restoration Support Group for Wives Offers hope to the hurting Valleywide through one-on-one Biblical marriage teaching, God-honoring wife discipleship and marriage restoration mentoring to wives seeking God’s will in the restoration of marriage.

Lisa, 602-377-8847, marriage@lisacmyers.com, forevermarriageministries.com, facebook.com/forevermarriages

Grief 10 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.

Jewish Women International, Avodah Chapter 1581 Monthly luncheon. Social Box Eateries, 1371 N. Alma School Road, Chandler RSVP: 480-802-9304, 480-655-8812

SATURDAYS

Bible Study Meets twice a month Members of the Women’s Life Group study the Bible and discuss how the lessons can relate to their lives. Sun Lakes United Church of Christ, Chandler.

Jan Olson: 480-802-7457, Joy King 480-588-1882

Spirit Night – Psychic Fair 4 to 8 p.m. third Saturday of each month The “Lightworkers” offer a wide range of services, including Reiki, facials, mediums, drumming, tarot, angel messages and more. Services range from $20 to $30.

Cash only.

Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center 952 E. Baseline Road, Suite 102, Mesa interfaith-community.org heatherposey70@gmail.com.

Moms in Prayer International A group of mothers who meet one hour each week to intercede for their children and schools through prayer. Liane Wright, 480-699-7887, momsinprayer.org

East Valley Jewish Couples Club Offers once-a-month social activities such as dining, movies and plays for Jewish couples in the 45- to 65-year-old age range. Melissa, 480-785-0744, beadlover@cox.net.

67

Let us help you publicize your church or temple’s events in the Spirituality section by emailing details to news@santansun. com. Include a brief description of the event, times, days, dates, cost or free, if registration is required, venue, address, publishable phone number, website if applicable and contact information for verification purposes. We welcome photos, which must be 300 dpi JPEGs or taken on a digital camera on the “best” or “highest quality” setting. Information is due 10 days prior to publication date. Submission does not guarantee placement.

First Baptist Church of Sun Lakes A Church of Joy Committed to the perfect Word of God, living under the Lordship of Jesus Christ, and worshiping with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs.

Dr. Marc Drake, Senior Pastor invites you to join in our traditional worship service at 9535 E. Riggs Road Sun Lakes, Arizona 85248

480-895-1088 www.fbcsl.org Sundays:

Bible Study: 8:30 am | Worship: 10:00 am Wednesday: Prayer & Bible Study: 6:30 pm

Spirit Night – A Holistic Healing Festival 1 to 6 p.m. third Saturday of the month Lightworkers offer a wide range of services including Reiki, facials, mediums, drumming, tarot, angel messages and more. Services range from $20 to $30.

Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center 952 E. Baseline Road, Suite 102, Mesa interfaith-community.org heatherposey70@gmail.com Unity Drumming and Healing Circle 6:30 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.

CCC

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DIRECTORY

DIRECTORY AIR CONDITIONING/HEAT

BUSINESS BUSINESS SERVICES

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East Valley PAINTERS A group of local business representatives and owners committed to development of local businesses in the Greater Chandler Area. Providing a forum for local businesses to promote themselves. We also work with and promote several non-profit organizations. Each member is required to assist or fund a non-profit organization as a show of support to our community. chandleralliance@gmail.com

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SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

DIRECTORY PAINTING

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69

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RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL REPAIRS AND REROOFING Tile, Shingles, Flat, Walk-Decks

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WINDOWS/ WINDOWS AND DOORS CLEANING

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70

CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIEDS SanTan Sun News Classified Ads Each ad starts at $22 plus Chandler tax per issue. Special: Buy 3 get 4th for free for only $66. You get up to 50 words more than other classifieds.

To Place Your Classified Ad Call 480-898-5611 or Email: Classifieds@SanTanSun.com Read our paper online: www.SanTanSun.com

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EVENTS Beta Sigma Phi, a woman's cultural and social organization, is looking to reconnect with non-active members in the East Valley.

New members are also welcome. Beta Sigma Phi is a non-college sorority, which offers "sisterhood" and "friendship" to women of all ages. You can never underestimate the importance of other women in your life.

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Where To Eat

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Smokin Fins serves diverse mix of dishes

BY COLLEEN SPARKS Staff

Picking out a place to go for dinner can be tricky when people try to find food to please everyone in their family or group of friends.

Smokin Fins, North 54th Street in Chandler, might be the solution for anyone seeking a fun place for a family dinner, lunch with co-workers or date night.

Its blend of sushi and other seafood, along with Mexican, Italian, American and Spanish-influenced lunches and dinners can satisfy a variety of palates and cravings.

The restaurant, part of a national chain, opened in March just east of I-10, in the building that used to house Stingray Sushi.

Part of the Fins restaurant group based in Idaho that also includes sister eatery Lucky Fins Seafood Grill, it touts “housesmoked” and “ocean-fresh” food.

Diners can sink their teeth into seafood risotto, lobster tater tots, a Tokyo salad, mahi mahi tacos, a Southwest poki bowl and bison burgers, among other choices for conservative or adventurous eaters.

“Our menu is a smorgasbord,” said Nate Ingersoll, operating partner for the Smokin Fins in Chandler. “It’s all over the place. There’s something on the menu to please everyone.”

One thing the menu items at the Chandler spot have in common is they are made with produce local to Arizona. Half of the beers on the menu are Arizona brews.

“We’re a small, independent restaurant,” Ingersoll said. “When we can support local, that’s what we do.”

The fresh food offers lots of choices for health-conscious customers of all ages, including grass-fed burgers on the children’s menu.

The meals and appetizers have vibrant colors and many have some type of seafood in them. The cioppino, a seafood stew reportedly started by ItalianAmerican fishermen in San Francisco, features the fresh fish of the day, Manila clams, mussels and shrimp in a red wine tomato broth.

A popular dish to share is the lobster stuffed avocado with a tempura-fried half avocado filled with lobster-crab salad, sriracha, spicy aioli, eel sauces, tobiko, green oinions and sesame seeds. The

Photos by Colleen Sparks

Nate Ingersoll, operating partner for Smokin Fins in Chandler, loves working at the new restaurant on North 54th Street just east of the I-10.

Tokyo salad has sushi rice, mixed greens, edamame, avocado, cubed raw salmon, ahi tuna, ebi shrimp and wasabi soy dressing.

Smokin Fins has many different types of sushi, including the popular Sunset Roll, which has tempura shrimp, ahi tuna and habanero cream cheese rolled inside and avocado, salmon, tobiko, orange, eel sauce and spicy aioli on top.

The Mexican influence is obvious in the various tacos, as well as the Baja Enchilada Stack, which includes blackened shrimp, bell pepper and onion with cheddar jack cheese, poblano cream sauce and bacon ranchero sauce topped with pico de gallo inside of house-made corn tortillas.

Those who have a taste for Mexican food also can try the Baja chicken salad,

Nate Ingersoll and one of the restaurant’s many seafood dishes, cioppino.

which offers blackened chicken, mixed greens, pico de gallo, roasted corn relish, avocado and cheddar jack cheese.

is $24.99.

The menu had been adapted to meet customers’ demands, Ingersoll said.

Three friends – Derek Hood, the operations owner, along with his partners Dave Stearns and Dave Schmiley – started Lucky Fins Seafood Grill in late 2011 with the idea of creating a fun restaurant where they would like hanging out, he said.

They opened the first Lucky Fins in Meridian, Idaho, and it was “like a neighborhood fish joint” with sushi and other seafood, Ingersoll added.

He said customers would say how much they loved Lucky Fins, but how they couldn’t bring all their family members there because they didn’t all like sushi and seafood.

So the owners bought a small smoker for the Boise, Idaho Lucky Fins and started cooking bison, ribeye steak, smoked brisket and smoked salmon.

Smokin Fins grew out of the Lucky Fins concept. Besides the Chandler spot, Smokin Fins also has restaurants in Littleton, Fort Collins and Arvada, Colorado.

The restaurant in Chandler is in an attractive location just down the road from Ahwatukee, Ingersoll said.

He and his staff aim to attract families coming after Little League and soccer games, as well as couples on date nights, folks watching games on TV in the bar and professionals from local companies talking business over lunch.

“There’s a really great community feel,” Ingersoll said. “It feels like you’re part of a town. From the second they walk in, they want to feel like they belong. You want to just give a welcoming presence.

“We wake up every morning and

Smokin Fins offers many different types of sushi, including the Sunset Roll, with tempura shrimp, ahi tuna and habanero cream cheese inside and salmon, avocado, tobiko, fresh orange, eel sauce and spicy aioli on top.

Meat lovers also have lots of choices at Smokin Fins.

The Prime, shaved house-smoked prime rib with smoked Gouda, sautéed mushrooms and onions on a garlic toasted baguette, as well as a classic cheeseburger, bison Cobb burger and pulled pork sandwich are on the menu.

A buffalo burger comes with smoked Gouda cheese and herb mushrooms and customers can also order smoking ribeye, Berkshire pork osso buco and Kahlua pig, a slow-smoked artisan Berkshire pork tossed in Dr Pepper Bourbon BBQ. The sushi prices range from $7.99 to $14.99, while the tacos and bowls cost between $11.99 and $14.99. Appetizers or “crave and share” choices cost from $5.99 for edamame to $26.99 for 12 oysters on the half shell. A classic cheeseburger costs $10 while the smoking ribeye steak

we throw a party. It’s a blast. Our staff enjoy being here. We don’t stifle their creativity.”

He and the manager of the Chandler Smokin Fins, Sarah Rensch, along with the kitchen manager, Carlos Escudero, all live in Chandler. Ingersoll said the Chandler Chamber of Commerce and Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce have “taken us in and been so awesome to us.”

Gary and Sandy Hopkins of Maricopa are regulars at Smokin Fins. The food and the staff members keep them coming back every week for happy hour, Gary said.

“The food is fantastic,” he said. “The food’s always changing” and the ambiance is “bright, open,” Gary added.

Said Sandy: “I think it’s really the people.

They’re very friendly. It’s like ‘Cheers.’”

Information: finsconcepts.com.

WHERE TO EAT

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Where Kids Eat Free!

Chompie’s

Floridino’s Pizza & Pasta

3481 W. Frye Road, Chandler 480-398-3008, www.chompies.com Children 10 and younger receive one free item from the kids’ meal menu with an adult meal purchase of $8 or more on Tuesdays. Dine-in only.

590 N. Alma School Road, Suite 35, Chandler 480-812-8433, www.floridinos.net Kids eat free from 4 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays.

Receive one free kids’ meal per $8 adult purchase when customers dine in only.

The Hungry Monk

Copper Still Moonshine Grill

2531 S. Gilbert Road, Suite 101, Gilbert 480-656-1476 www.copperstillmoonshinegrill.com Kids ages 10 and younger eat for free on Tuesdays with the purchase of an adult meal.

El Palacio Restaurant & Cantina

2950 E. Germann Road, Chandler 480-802-5770, www.epfamilyrestaurants.com Kids 12 and younger eat free when adult meals are purchased on Wednesdays.

The SanTan Sun News now has a regular section called “Where Kids Eat Free.”

Restaurant owners, please email us details such as days of the week kids can eat free at your establishment,

Pittsburgh Willy’s

of an adult entrée on Mondays.

48 S. San Marcos Place, Chandler 480-821-3197 Every day except Sunday breakfast, one child 10 or younger eats free with each paying adult, while additional kids eat for 50 percent off when they order from the Wee Willy menu only.

Andersen Fiesta Shopping Center, 1760 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler 480-963-8000 www.hungrymonkaz.com Kids eat free on Mondays with every purchase of an adult entrée.

Planet Sub

NYPD Pizza

1371 N. Alma School Road, Chandler 480-899-6735, www. socialboxeateries.com Kids 12 and younger eat free from the kids’ menu with the purchase

2580 W. Chandler Boulevard, Chandler 480-722-0898, www.aznypdpizza.com Kids eat free on Wednesday and Sunday after 4 p.m. with the purchase of a small or medium pizza. Dine-in only. and what conditions apply, such as purchase of an adult meal, certain hours, etc. Include your restaurant name, address, phone and website and a contact name for verification.

Readers, if you know of a location

Sidelines Grill

2980 S. Alma School Road, Chandler 480-792-6965, www.sidelinesaz.com Kids eat free from the kids’ menu after 4 p.m. Thursdays with the purchase of an adult entrée. Dine-in only.

1920 W. Germann Road, Chandler 480-245-6503, www.planetsub.com Kids eat free with a paying adult on Mondays.

Social Box

that has a kids-eat-free program, email us with the restaurant name, a phone and/or email for confirmation and details.

Email information to KidsEatFree@santansun.com.

Date Night

DEADLINES FOR SANTAN SUN NEWS: MAY 7 The deadline for news and advertising is 12 p.m. Thursday, Nov 22, for the Saturday, Dec 2, issue of the SanTan Sun News. All news must be submitted to News@SanTanSun.com by that day to be considered for the next issue or by filling in the “submit a news release” form on the newspaper’s website at www.SanTanSun.com. To send an item for consideration in the SanTan Family Fun, email it directly to STFF@SanTanSun.com. Send advertising files and information to account reps or contact Ads@SanTanSun.com. For deadline information, visit SanTanSun.com and click on “About us” or call (480) 732-0250 for advertising rate details.

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WHERE TO EAT

SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017

Courtesy of Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill

Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill is bringing back its free cornbread.

Complimentary cornbread returning to Z’Tejas Grill Culver’s adds Wisconsin cheddar cheese sauce

Photo courtesy of Culver’s

Culver’s has added a Wisconsin cheddar cheese sauce to its menu.

SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

A popular appetizer at a restaurant chain known for flavorful Mexican dishes with a Chandler location is coming back.

Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill is returning the complimentary cornbread for the first time in two years.

The restaurant, which has been in the Valley for nearly 30 years, heard requests for the free cornbread to return. The scratch-made bread is baked all day long and comes to tables hot with honey butter in a skillet.

Anyone who wants more than one serving of the cornbread in a skillet will

still need to pay for the seconds and subsequent extra helpings.

Z’Tejas, 7221 West Ray Road in Chandler, tries to offer diners the best experience possible, focusing on hospitality and meals created using the freshest ingredients.

Recently Z’Tejas closed several other restaurants in Arizona and one in Austin after Cornbread Ventures LP, the group that owns Z’Tejas, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Z’Tejas is open for lunch and dinner, and offers daily happy hour specials.

Brunch is served on weekends at the restaurant.

Information: ztejas.com.

SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Cheese lovers can indulge in a new dipping sauce at Culver’s restaurants in Chandler.

The restaurant chain has added Wisconsin cheddar cheese sauce to its menu. Customers can dip their crinklecut fries and onion rings into the cheesy sauce, as well as spread it on their ButterBurger or dip the Wisconsin cheese curds into it.

“It’s no secret that we at Culver’s love cheese, and our guests love it too,” said Julie Fussner, vice president of marketing

for Culver’s. “Our Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Sauce is one more way that we can all enjoy delicious Wisconsin cheese.”

Culver’s is at 3155 W. Ray Road, Chandler.

For more than 30 years, Culver’s has been making cooked-to-order food with farm-fresh ingredients. The franchise system has over 600 family-owned and run restaurants in 24 states.

Some signature menu items at Culver’s are the ButterBurger, which is made with fresh beef, and fresh frozen custard.

Information: culvers.com.

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SANTAN SUN NEWS | NOV 18 – DEC 1 , 2017