SanTan Sun News - July 1

July 1-14, 2017 www.SanTanSun.com

Mayor optimistic about downtown development efforts

BY ARMAN SIDHU

Perhaps no one understands the difficulties of redeveloping a downtown better than Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. In his tenure as both mayor and as a former city councilman, Tibshraeny has long held onto a vision for revitalizing Downtown Chandler.

During his State of Downtown address at the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership annual meeting on June 15 at the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort, Tibshraeny addressed a consortium of representatives from the local business and nonprofit community.

In his speech, the mayor acknowledged that while the process of revitalizing downtown has taken longer than expected, the current momentum remains strong.

“Having grown up in Chandler, I have seen this area undergo many changes,” Tibshraeny said. “Most have been good – some not. We’ve overcome many challenges through the years and are now in a period of remarkable rebirth.”

“It’s very exciting for me to see the transformation,” he added.

In the last two years, downtown Chandler has seen an expansion in housing, with projects such as the Alta

Tempe Union, Kyrene, Chandler to ask voters for financial help

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AND COLLEEN SPARKS

The school districts that serve Tempe and Chandler will ask voters this fall for financial help by continuing budget overrides in the face of what officials and some citizens call the state Legislature’s continuing refusal to adequately fund public education in Arizona – particularly adequate teacher pay.

Tempe Union High School District’s governing board on June 7 approved a ballot question for a 15 percent

operations and maintenance budget override by a 4-1 vote, with Brandon Schmoll voting against it.

Kyrene’s governing board unanimously approved three ballot questions – two allowing continuation of 15 percent operating and 10 percent capital budget overrides and a third authorizing the district to borrow up to $116,750,000 in

Steelyard Lofts, and in the retail and restaurant spaces.

“What we have always wanted to

achieve in downtown is a well-balanced place that embraces many uses,” Tibshraeny said. “From multi-family, office, entertainment and retail to arts and culture, we want a true urban environment that’s energized 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

In his address, Tibshraeny thanked his fellow council members “for sticking to a unified vision for our city core.”

In February, the council approved Overstreet, a $25 million project that will build out 77,000 square feet of space on the southwest corner of Arizona Avenue and Chandler Boulevard. The project brings the city one step closer to the realization of its “Live, Work, Play” vision for Downtown Chandler.

The Overstreet project comes as a relief for the city after prior efforts to establish an entertainment-oriented development faltered at the same location over two years ago. The development was intended to bring Alamo Drafthouse Cinema and provide

Chandler man illegally sold securities, owes more than $1.5 million, officials say

BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY

A Chandler resident is on the hook for nearly $1.5 million in restitution and $50,000 in penalties after the Arizona Corporation Commission found he illegally sold securities in a beverage company and failed to pay back investors.

The commission found that Lucio George Martinez of Chandler and Samuel A. Jones sold $2.14 million in unregistered securities in their company Shadow Beverages and Snacks. Neither individual was registered as a securities dealer or salesman, a violation of Arizona statutes.

Shadow Beverages and Snacks also failed in at least four cases to determine whether investors’ net worth or income would qualify them as accredited investors.

In order to be considered an accredited investor, the SEC requires an individual to have a net worth of at least $1 million or earn $200,000 annually.

The Arizona Corporation Commission found that the company solicited a total of 16 promissory notes and one investment contract and also failed to repay investors when those investments came due.

The company eventually paid a total of

$552,500 to repay five of those investments.

The company ceased operations in 2015 and currently is in Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

In a previous decision, the ACC ordered Jones to pay $95,000 in restitution and a $15,000 administrative penalty. He has since done so.

The responsibility for the bulk of the restitution falls to Martinez, whom the commission ordered to pay $1,492,500 in restitution along with a $50,000 administrative penalty.

If Martinez fails to satisfy those obligations, they will go to the Attorney General’s Office, acting as a collections agency, said Wendy Coy, director of enforcement in Arizona Corporation Commission’s Securities Division.

The agency began investigating the company after receiving investor complaints, Coy said.

Martinez denied a request to comment on the decision, though internal ACC documents do offer a glimpse into his side of the story.

(Photos by Arman Sidhu)

Chandler Mayor Jay Tibshraeny gives his State of Downtown address at the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership annual meeting on June 15.

(Photo by Earnest Robinson)

A teacher at Chandler Traditional Academy - Independence Campus works with students in a classroom. The Chandler Unified School District is asking voters to renew an override, which goes to teachers’ pay and benefits while it also helps keep the average class size to just under 24 students per teacher.

DOWNTOWN

space for restaurants.

Tibshraeny also cited the local business community’s efforts in establishing unique businesses.

“Through the combined efforts of the city, all of the entrepreneurs in the room, and the private development community, we are on a pretty good roll right now,” he said. Several new businesses are slated to open downtown. They include the much anticipated Flix Brewhouse, a Texas-based theater and brewhouse chain that will anchor the Overstreet project expected to open this winter. Puro Cigar Bar, Even Stevens Sandwiches, and West Alley BBQ are also setting up shop downtown.

Additional projects include expansion of parking spaces and a remodel of Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, which is in the final design stage of its master plan. Site 6, which is also known as Chandler 87, refers to the site across from City Hall. The 169,000-square-foot development will

feature multiple office and commercial buildings, with parking attached. The City Council is expected to review RFP submissions for Site 7, at Arizona Avenue and Chandler Boulevard this month.

The DCCP annual meeting concluded with an awards ceremony. Michael Beagle, the digital media and training manager for the Chandler Chamber of Commerce, was awarded Advocate of the Year. Katie Lambert of MOMnation, a Facebook group that organizes events for mothers and their families, received the Community Leader Award. Cheryl Tisland, the owner of downtown’s Burst of Butterflies Create & Paint Studio won Business of the Year. Edward Hines, chief financial officer of Aero-Zone, an aircraft parts supplier, received the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Individuals and organizations interested in learning more about the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership can visit downtownchandler.org.

Cool programs at the Ed Robson Library in July!

Our Summer Reading Program, for all ages, is in full swing! If you haven’t signed up yet, there’s still plenty of time to sign up, log your reading, and earn a free book once you’ve read 1,000 minutes. The program ends on August 1. And do join us for the following events in July, where you can earn points for attending!

Please join us for the following – it’s hot outside but cool at the library!

Thursdays, July 6, 13, 20, and 27 at 11 a.m. – Preschool Storytime

Join us for fun with books, songs, action-rhymes, flannelboards, crafts and more! Activities are developmentally appropriate for ages 3-6, but all ages are welcomed. Be ready to sing, learn, and discover!

Thursday, July 6 at 5:30 p.m. – Evening “History Through Fiction” Book Club

This month’s title is “Fever 1793” by Laurie Halse Anderson. In 1793 Philadelphia, 16-year-old Matilda Cook, separated from her sick mother, learns about perseverance and self-reliance when she is forced to cope with the horrors of a yellow fever epidemic. Registration required.

Monday, July 10 at 1 p.m. – Adult Crafts: T-Shirt Tote Bags

Come chat, craft, and get creative!

We will turn old t-shirts into handy, tote bags that can be used to carry books or groceries. Registration required.

Tuesday, July 11th at 1 p.m. – Signs of the Times with Marshall Shore***

The rise of car travel in the 40s, 50s, and 60s meant that thousands of people were traversing the broad expanses of the Southwest. As the cars sped past, businesses needed large, bright signs to make an impression. “Hip Historian” Marshall Shore explores the rise of the iconic images that defined the West in the age of the automobile.

Tuesday, July 18 at 1 p.m. – Steelin’ the Night Away***

This Phoenix-based, all-female steel drum band will keep your toes tapping with Calypso and Caribbean-inspired rhythms, beach/surf tunes, and golden oldies. Bring your dancing shoes! Sponsored by the Sun Lakes Friends of the Library, who will be offering non-alcoholic margaritas and pina coladas to add to the fun!

We are located at 9330 E. Riggs Road, Sun Lakes. For more information, go to mcldaz.org or call 602-652-3000.

***Free tickets, limit two per person, available on the day of the program. Please stop by the library customer service desk anytime after we open.

In Chandler Unified School District, property owners in November will be asked if they want to approve the renewal of an override voters originally affirmed in 2013. Voters in 2013 had approved the 15 percent budget override of about $28 million and renewing it is not likely to raise tax rates, said Terry Locke, director of community relations for the Chandler district.

Property owners in the Chandler school district currently pay $6.52, of which $1.30 is for the override, per $100,000 of assessed value of their property for their Chandler school district taxes. Voters in 2015 also had approved the Chandler district’s bond to raise money for capital needs throughout the district.

Locke said it’s unclear exactly how much the average property owner would pay in property taxes if the override is renewed, since the tax rate is being calculated according to the most current data.

He said if approved, the override will grow to about $34 million because of growth in the district, but would not take effect until July 2019. The Chandler school district grew by about 1,400 students this past school year. If voters don’t approve renewing the override, it would expire in June 2019.

“It’s not a new tax,” Locke said. “It’s a continuance, maintaining our current funding. We’ve had a lot of great support in the community. We’re in a really good position that we attract high-quality staff and the salary schedule’s a big part of that, but also the amount of support they get. We have one of the most competitive teacher salary schedules.”

Locke said the district’s citizens budget committee would have to make recommendations to the governing board to tackle budget shortfalls. Spending cutbacks could lead to larger class sizes and program reductions.

The Kyrene and Tempe Union school districts serve property owners in some parts of Chandler.

The actions of both Kyrene’s and Tempe Union’s boards followed several months of study and discussion by scores of business and property owners, parents and community leaders who had volunteered to study the two districts’ financial options and recommend solutions.

Despite a plea by one of those citizens for a united front in Tempe Union’s campaign, Schmoll opposed the override question because of the way the override money would be used to bolster teacher and staff salaries.

“It is risky for the district to allocate the money towards permanent expenses using temporary income, especially since we will be maxed out on overrides and unable to receive more funds,” he said.

He also was critical of the $300,000 cost of the all-mail election.

“Regardless of the outcome of this override, I think it’s important for the state Legislature to properly fund K-12 schools so that we don’t have to spend $300,000 of district money on proposition expenses asking voters to approve more funding,” Schmoll said. “It’s extremely inefficient.”

No disharmony appears among Kyrene governing board members on their ballot questions. On June 13, they unanimously approved two separate statements urging voter approval of the two override measures.

“We are in the midst of a crisis when

it comes to attracting and retaining highly qualified teachers, as the teacher shortage is all too real,” says the district’s “pro” statement that will be included in voter information guides before the November election.

“This governing board has made teacher compensation a priority and we have worked hard to adopt a longterm strategy for increasing teacher salaries,” it also says. “Continuation of our (maintenance and operating) budget override will allow us to continue that important work and honor our commitment to our teachers.”

In a separate statement urging approval of the capital budget override, Kyrene board members stress the district needs technology upgrades – some necessary because of state-mandated tests.

The only alternative to financing those upgrades, they warn, would be taking the money from the district’s operating budget and “displacing funding for teacher compensation.”

Kyrene’s two budget overrides will not increase property taxes.

Rather, the district is simply asking voters to continue for another seven years of overrides that they have already approved. The operating budget override won approval in 2013 and the capital override was OK’d by voters two years before that.

Kyrene voters last authorized the district to float bonds in 2010.

That money funded a slew of repairs at schools throughout the district and the purchase of propane-powered school buses and air-conditioning upgrades on those vehicles.

The $12.6 million that Kyrene earned in 2016-17 from the existing operating budget override “is the equivalent of 200

teacher salaries,” according to district records.

Those records also noted that override money goes directly to maintaining enough teachers to keep class sizes small, fund enrichment classes such as physical education and music, pay part of the cost of servicing students who have physical or learning disabilities, and pay for support services like libraries and laboratories.

Much of the capital budget override will help Kyrene maintain its aging buildings, which average around 30 years old.

Tempe Union plans to use its entire additional 5 percent in override money exclusively for teaching pay increases. Most of the money from the Chandler override goes to teachers’ pay and benefits while it also helps keep the average class size to just under 24 students per teacher and funds measures to keep schools safe, including safety officers, Locke said.

Arizona ranks among the bottom five states for teacher salaries, according to various national studies.

Salaries have not only driven many experienced teachers out of Arizona schools into other states or occupations, but also have diminished the number of new university and college graduates who want to teach in the state, education officials have said.

The resulting teacher crisis has fueled numerous demands by business and citizen groups for more state funding. It also has fueled anger among the same groups over the Legislature’s expansion this year of vouchers for parents who want to send their children to charter schools since a large portion of state funding for public school districts is based on enrollment.

Left: Edward Hines, chief financial officer of Aero-Zone, an aircraft parts supplier, receives the Lifetime Achievement Award at the downtown meeting. Right: Cheryl Tisland, owner of Burst of Butterflies Create & Paint Studio won the Business of the Year award at the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership annual meeting.

(Photos by Arman Sidhu)

TABLE FOR TWO

One shared pizza and two glasses of tap wine or draft beers | $20

BURGER AND A BEER

$12

WINE THURSDAYS

Half price wine by the glass

DAILY SPECIALS

Breakfast and lunch

HAPPY HOUR

Monday – Saturday 3pm–6pm | Sunday all day

LIVE MUSIC

Friday and Saturday nights

CHEF FEATURES

TUESDAY Rib Night

FRIDAY All-You-Can-Eat Fish and Chips

SATURDAY Prime Rib Night Dessert of the Week

K-9 Units join Chandler Regional’s security team

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Two specially trained dogs are official members of Dignity Health Chandler Regional Medical Center’s security team.

Chico, 2, and Scout, 1, are Czech Shepherds who have received extensive security dog training and are working with fellow Chandler Regional security employees Mike Watkins and Robert Andazola.

“The dogs and handlers are still fairly new to each other, but their bonds grow each day,” said Chris Bellino, director of security for Dignity Health in Arizona. “We have had great success for nearly a decade with K-9 teams at Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix. With the addition of a Level-1 trauma unit at Chandler Regional, it seemed fitting that we expand the program.”

Hospitals around the country routinely use security dogs. Often, their mere presence results in a safer environment.

Chico and Scout are patrolling all areas of the hospital with Watkins and Andazola to provide a sense of comfort and serve as a tension reliever for patients and families who are going through stressful situations.

“We’ve been fortunate to have a very safe campus, and we’re confident that the addition of the K-9 program will further enhance safety and security for everyone at Chandler Regional,” said Jane Hanson, chief operating officer of Dignity Health Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert medical centers.

While Dignity Health’s East Valley security dogs will primarily work at Chandler Regional, they will also occasionally visit Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert Medical Center. Hospital employees are also being trained to work appropriately with the new teams to ensure the program’s success.

Holiday weeks require uptick in blood donations

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Arizona hospitals are urging blood donors to roll up their sleeves in support of patients around the Independence Day holiday. While donor vacations typically reduce the number of people giving blood this time of year, heavy traffic on the highways increases the potential for accidents and the need for blood.

Chandler facilities are hosting two blood drives and, in appreciation for saving lives, all donors will be entered into United Blood Services’ summer raffle

to win a 2017 VW Passat R-Line, donated by the Valley Volkswagen dealers. Donors may visit Chandler Regional Medical Center, 1955 W. Frye Rd., lower level, conference rooms 1 and 2, Chandler, from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. July 7; and 8 a.m. to noon July 13, at Arizona Orthopedic Surgical Hospital’s Bloodmobile, 2905 W. Warner Road. To make a donation appointment, call 1-877-UBS-HERO (1-877-827-4376) toll free or visit bloodhero.com.

(Dignity Health Chandler Regional Medical Center)

Scout with security employee Mike Watkins and Chico with security employee Robert Andazola patrol the area

ICAN honors Henry Salinas Society heroes

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Three members of ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth in Chandler’s The Henry Salinas Society were recently named Henry Salinas Society Heroes for 2017.

The individual honoree was Brandon Bagley, owner of AlphaGraphics Chandler/Gilbert/Scottsdale. Business co-honorees were the Chandler Police Department and Intel.

“What a privilege to honor all of these worthy ICAN supporters,” Shelby Pedersen, ICAN CEO said. “They each support ICAN in so many different ways and truly make a difference in the lives of the youth that we serve.”

The Henry Salinas Society Heroes award is named for ICAN’s founder, Henry Salinas. He founded ICAN in 1991

as a concerned citizen who wanted a safe place for kids to go after school to prevent the gang violence that was becoming rampant downtown.

The Henry Salinas Society Award recognizes outstanding members of the Henry Salinas Society who have passionately devoted their time, talent and/or treasure to improve the lives of

children and their families over the past year. Henry Salinas Society members are a distinguished group of supporters of the organization. Nominations for the award are accepted from the membership and are reviewed by a blind panel to determine the winners each year. For more information about ICAN, call 480-821-4207 or visit icanaz.org.

(Photos special to SanTan Sun News)

Intel won the business co-honoree award. Renee Levin, middle, represented Intel. She is with ICAN board chairman Brett Henkel and ICAN CEO Shelby Pedersen.

Business co-honoree, Chandler Police Department, celebrates its honor from ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth. From left are Chandler Police Commander Edward Upshaw, Chandler Police Lieutenant Shawn Hancock, community outreach coordinator Melanie Slate, Chandler Police Chief Sean Duggan, ICAN board chairman Brett Henkel and ICAN CEO Shelby Pedersen.

Individual honoree Brandon Bagley, owner of AlphaGraphics Chandler/Gilbert/Scottsdale, is flanked by ICAN CEO Shelby Pedersen, left, and ICAN board chairman Brett Henkel, right.

Summer program feeds hungry East Valley students

BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY

The beginning of summer is typically a time of celebration for children as school comes to an end and vacations, pool parties and camp fill the schedule. However, for youth in Chandler and other areas that suffer from hunger, the end of the school year is much less joyous.

Arizona has one of the highest rates of food insecurity in the country, with one in four children facing hunger every day. For many of those children, the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Program is an invaluable resource.

“650,000 children participate in the National School Lunch Program, and it is a wonderful way to consistently feed children who need that source of nutrition to be in class, to learn, to thrive,” said Association of Arizona Food Banks CEO Angie Rodgers.

About 78 percent of those children receive free or reduced-price lunch.

When school ends, so do those meals.

“If you take all of those meals out of the equation, kids struggle to get that source of care,” Rodgers said. “Kids rely on school to receive regular meals, and they struggle in summer.”

That is where the Summer Food Service Program comes in. It is a federally funded program designed to give low-income children access to meals when school is out. The program is funded through the USDA and administered in Arizona by the state Department of Education.

The Department of Education regulates the program, conducts site visits, administers all required training for site sponsors and ensures that all prospective sponsors meet eligibility and budget requirements.

There are over 1,000 sites, including 16 in Chandler, where children can receive SFSP meals in Arizona. Many are schools and Boys & Girls Club locations. However, site sponsors are making an effort to diversify their locations in order to go to where the kids are.

“We encourage sponsors to have activities at their sites,” Kenny Barnes, Department of Education summer food program specialist said. “That way, they can stay from breakfast through lunch, and it keeps them occupied” in a controlled, supervised environment, he said.

The Chandler Unified School District

alone hosts 13 sites across the city, including some locations at city pools. The SFSP sites are set up outside the pool gates so that children and parents do not have to pay a pool entrance fee in order to take advantage of the meal program.

The meals are free for children 18 years old and younger. Select locations also offer meals for adults for $2 to $4.

The meals served vary by site. Many serve breakfast, lunch and/or snacks and a few sites also offer dinner options. It is possible for families to eat three meals a day at SFSP sites, though they would have to travel to multiple locations since program regulations only allow a site to serve two meals per day.

In Arizona, SFSP-affiliated programs serve between 3.5 million and 4 million meals every year, though those numbers are dropping. By comparison, the lunch program provides roughly 13 million meals every month during the school year, Rodgers said.

In 2014, the program provided 4,046,104 meals, and in 2016 that number fell to 3,432,722, according to statistics provided by Arizona Department of Education.

Those numbers do not necessarily equate to falling demand, though. That is because actual demand during the summer likely far outpaces meals served under SFSP, Rodgers said.

That disconnect is caused by a range of factors, including cumbersome

regulations, access to meal service sites, summer heat and community awareness.

While there are over 1,000 sites serving meals across the state, they tend to cluster in urban areas and many children – especially in rural communities – have trouble accessing them.

Mesa, the East Valley’s largest city, has just under 50 SFSP locations. However, smaller cities and towns like Chandler (16 locations) and Gilbert (six locations) have far fewer, according to the interactive online map from Arizona Nutrition Network.

There are no SFSP sites in Ahwatukee, though there are nearby sites at the Boys & Girls Club of the East Valley in Guadalupe and Wood Elementary School in Tempe.

Children and parents do not have to be residents of a city or town to take advantage of a site located there, though.

For instance, under a program called Snack on the Bus, 150 students from Gilbert are bused to a Chandler swimming pool that also features an SFSP site run by Chandler Unified School District where they eat breakfast and lunch. Then, on their way home, they stop at another SFSP site for a snack.

It’s a great way to keep the children fed throughout most of the day and also makes sense logistically, said Audri Knutson, supervisor for Chandler Unified School District’s Food Services

Department.

In many cases, children and their parents still must brave the heat of the Arizona summer to receive meals, and they must eat those meals at the location rather than take them home due to program regulations. Transportation to and from SFSP locations, many of which are schools, is difficult for many low-income families in the summer, when there is no school bus in service, Rodgers said.

“Here in the metro area (a major issue is) just the heat,” Barnes said. “When it gets 110 or 115 degrees outside, it is hard to get children to come down.”

One recent food trend in the area may hold the solution to that problem – food trucks. Chandler Unified School District is currently awaiting the arrival of its own food truck thanks to a donation from the Arizona Diamondbacks and a partnership with Aeromark. The food truck will be ready for service by next summer.

In order to comply with USDA regulations that require food be consumed on site, the food truck will bring tables for children to use.

This type of creativity and hard work is part and parcel of the dedicated public servants and volunteers who navigate the various regulations and logistical challenges involved in the program to feed hungry children, organizers say.

“Whatever twists and turns come up, we will prevail,” said Patti Narducci, food and nutrition supervisor for Chandler Unified School District.

The Summer Food Service Program also suffers a publicity problem. In many cases, children cannot take advantage of the program because their families simply do not know about it.

Association of Arizona Food Banks, Arizona Department of Education and other interested groups are working to reverse that trend by investing in social media marketing. The Department of Education also partners with St. Mary’s Food Bank, Dairy Council of Arizona and Arizona Nutrition Network to create public service announcements and other promotional materials.

Chandler Unified promotes the program on school and district websites and also sends information home with students.

(Photo by Kimberly Carrillo)

Ryan, Brady, Katlyn and Courtney Dillworth have a meal at Folley Pool in Chandler. The Chandler Unified School District hosts meals at 13 sites across the city, including some city pools.

Che Bella Villas gated community selling quickly

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Business is booming in the fastselling Che Bella Villas Condominiums in Chandler.

The city’s newest gated community is more than 85 percent sold after having finished construction on the first building late last fall. The popular community at East Pecos Road and South Canal Drive between South McQueen and South Cooper roads offers condominiums from the low $200,000s.

Che Bella offers luxury homes where residents can relax in front of livingroom fireplaces, soak in a pool or spa and hit the putting green for some friendly competition and unwind with a barbecue in a gazebo. A poolside fitness center offers equipment for residents to enjoy an active lifestyle.

Graham Development Corporation, which is building the community, has

designed it with features visible in the developer’s previous award-winning projects. Che Bella Villas is the most recent success for Graham, which has created other homes in Chandler, as well as in Mesa and Fountain Hills. The developer earned the prestigious City of Chandler’s Architectural Excellence Award for the Villas at Savona in 2008.

“It’s exciting to see the community build so quickly,” said developer Rob Graham. “Our sales have exceeded our expectations. With only 60 homes in the development, we find our buyers appreciate the intimacy of a smaller community. This is mainly due to location, beauty of the residences and a strong feeling of community.

“The price is surprising buyers, and for now we have decided to maintain buyer incentives of up to $10,000 without

increasing prices.”

The spacious villas in Che Bella provide an open split-bedroom plan complete with formal dining spaces, luxurious master bathrooms and master suites, direct-access over-size garages and art niche designs. Other notable features include nine-foot ceilings and crown molding in living rooms, as well as granite countertops in the kitchens and bathrooms, raised vanities in bathrooms, walk-in closets and tile flooring in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. The sophisticated amenities are ideal for an active, maintenance-free lifestyle.

The floor plans divide the space into two areas, with the main living room in the center and bedrooms on either side of it, and an ample master retreat spanning the depth of the unit.

Che Bella Villas provides a

cosmopolitan feel in Chandler combined with a European sensibility throughout the exterior architecture and design, merging interiors with comfort and luxury and impeccable interior architectural design features.

The gated community is located in a prime area in south Chandler, a mile from the Loop 202 San Tan Freeway and only minutes from dining, shopping, arts and entertainment venues. The location makes it easy for residents to commute to major tech businesses, with access to downtown Chandler and Gilbert. They also have an easy time finding places to bike, walk, fish and inline skate as Che Bella is just steps away from the 20-milelong Chandler Paseo Canal Path.

Che Bella Villas is at 900 South Canal Drive. To learn more call 480-540-0615 or visit chebellavillas.com.

Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities holding fundraiser

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

People can dance a jig and help raise money for a Chandler woman to trace her heritage in Ireland.

Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities (CTSC) is sponsoring a fundraiser from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. on July 9 at Fibber Magees, 1989 W. Elliot Road in Chandler. The event features local musicians performing traditional Irish music, and will raise money for Lauren Koll, the 2017 Arizona Colleen and Rose. Jigs and reels will be played from 4 to 6 p.m.

People can enter a 50/50 raffle to help pay for Koll’s trip to represent Chandler and all of Arizona in Tralee, Ireland in August at the Rose of Tralee International Festival.

She plans to participate in the event with other Roses from around the world. Sophie Looney, of Chandler, the 2017 Irish Lass, will attend the fundraiser at Fibber Magees.

“Fibber Magees is pleased to host this fundraiser for Lauren, and we’re excited for a continued relationship with ChandlerTullamore Sister Cities,” Matt Brennan, a managing partner of Fibber Magees, said in a news release.

Koll is on the Education Committee on the Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities Board and she works part-time for the Neighborhood Resources Department of the City of Chandler. She graduated with

a degree in education and human sciences and a minor in hospitality, tourism and management, and event planning from the University of Nebraska. Koll plans to continue her education while exploring her Irish genealogy in counties Tipperary and Wexford, a passion she shared with her late grandmother, Helen Asche.

She said her family has taught her “to learn from everyday decisions, the importance of modeling appropriate actions in your life and the importance of paying things forward. Good deeds today, though small and seemingly inconsequential, can have dramatic impacts tomorrow.”

In order to earn the title of 2017 Arizona Colleen and Rose, Koll demonstrated many women’s self-defense tactics, illustrating moves to escape difficult situations, something that’s very important to her. She is training with Master Paul McGowan of Chandler and owner of Chandler Mixed Martial Arts on Ray Road and a native of Tullamore, Ireland.

When she is in Ireland, Koll plans to visit Chandler’s sister city, Tullamore in County Offaly, and she will be recognized at the opening reception for the twinned Community Postcard Project on August 11.

Artists can enter postcard creations for international exhibits

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Artists can enter their work for a chance to be part of an international postcard exhibit.

An Artist-to-Artist Exchange and Exhibit between the City of Chandler and town of Tullamore, Ireland, Chandler’s Sister City, is asking for art entries from Chandler residents and artists.

The theme of the exhibit will be “Commonality” and the selected postcards will be on display at Aras an Chontae office’s atrium space in Tullamore, Ireland from August 11-31. The postcards will come back to Chandler afterward, to a place and on a date to be determined.

“We are thrilled to be working with residents of our Sister City, Tullamore, on this art exchange,” said Ellen Harrington, chair of Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities. “We hope this exchange is the beginning of many possible relationships between the residents of our respective cities.”

Fiber and polymer clay artist Laurie Fagen of Chandler, a former board member for Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities and current Publisher Emeritus of the “SanTan Sun News,” is also planning an artist exchange with Tullamore illustrator and artist Róisín Ui Oistiin. Fagen and Harrington will go to Ireland to see the exhibit.

“This, we hope, may be the start of an annual art exchange that will bring both communities together in a fun and exciting way, thus building friendships,” Ui Oistiin said. “As Helen Keller said, ‘Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.’”

Artists who want to enter their work to be considered for the postcard project should illustrate anything residents of Chandler and Tullamore have in common on a 4x6 base that can be bought or handmade. They can submit items in any medium as long as the artwork is completely dry when submitted. The

media may include drawings, paintings, collages, illustrations or mixed-media artwork using markers, paints, colored pencils, pastels, fiber, beads, photographs and polymer clay. The postcard entries may be monochromatic or abstract and use words, still life, poems, quotes and landscape – whatever inspires the artist.

The entries will be divided by the age groups of participants – 10 years and younger, ages 11 to 20 and ages 21 and older. Artists entering their work must be residents of Chandler or Tullamore. Participants may put their name, contact information, age group and email address on the back of their postcards or choose to be anonymous.

The contest organizers want to use this exhibit as a fundraiser, with the proceeds used to pay for the next exchange. Anyone who wants their postcards to be available for purchase should create two postcards so people attending the exhibits in

Chandler and Tullamore have a chance to buy them in both cities. Or they can just create one postcard and note on it “not for sale” and the card will be sent back to the artist. The maximum number of entries per person is four and there’s no cost to enter artwork.

The deadline to turn in Chandler entries is August 1. The postcards must be mailed to P.O. Box 1474, Chandler, AZ, 85224-1474, or dropped off at the Diversity Office in Neighborhood Resources at 235 S. Arizona Avenue or at the Chandler Unified School District office at 1525 W. Frye Road. There will be drop boxes for the postcards at both front desks.

To learn more about the postcard project or Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities (CTSC), visit the ChandlerTullamore site at chandlerirish.org or call Ellen Harrington at 480-600-8509 or email her at chan.to.tull@gmail.com.

(Photos courtesy of Che Bella Villas)

First: Che Bella Villas offers raised vanities in the bathrooms in the condominiums in the gated community, which is more than 85 percent sold. Second: The floor plans at Che Bella divide the space into two areas, with the

Third: The condominium community provides tile

Martinez claims in a document filed with the ACC that former Shadow Beverages and Snacks executive Rick Peterson initiated the investigation for personal gain with help from an ACC employee who is Peterson’s personal friend. Peterson misrepresented himself as a licensed broker when Shadow Beverages hired him, Martinez says. Furthermore, Martinez states that “the majority of lawsuits and complaints now come from (Peterson) and the investors he brought to Shadow.”

The ACC’s Recommended Opinion & Order from the Hearing Division filed by Administrative Law Judge Mark Preny found that Peterson had a direct role in at least six of the 17 investments in question.

The documents do not provide, beyond Martinez’s testimony, further evidence of collusion between Peterson and an ACC employee.

According to documents filed with the ACC by Martinez, all company funds were used to pay employees involved in day-today operations and to build the business. These documents also stated that “five executives worked at the company without pay throughout the life of the company.” However, another section of the document states that “the officers of the company were not on the payroll 80 percent of the time and never had a salary of more than $80,000 on a yearly basis.”

resident who owns a construction management company, a married couple who work as real estate agents in the Valley, and another husband and wife who live in Arizona and are an oncologist and corporate attorney, respectively.

The investments carried a range of terms, interest agreements and repayment timelines that went unfulfilled.

The ACC documents contain testimony from a variety of investors who claim that this situation caused them financial hardship, including a Gilbert resident and her partner who invested $75,000 over the course of two investments.

To complicate matters further, nutrition and fitness retail chain GNC received a $1.4 million judgment against Shadow Beverages and Snacks in 2014.

According to Corporation Commission filings, the company did not disclose this judgment to potential investors.

American Outdoorsman Inc. also won a judgment against Shadow in 2014 worth between $5 million and $6 million stemming from a commercial licensing agreement dispute. Shadow licensed the American Outdoorsman brand to sell food products but failed to make agreed-upon payments to the media company, according to a press release from attorney Arthur D. Goldman, who represented American Outdoorsman.

Martinez also argues, via these documents, that “at all times, investors knew that the company had debt, some past due, but the company was also working on larger financial deals tied to the distribution agreements or product agreements.”

The investors ranged from experienced securities and investor professionals to a former CEO of Ironclad Performance Wear. The pool also contained several personal friends and a cousin of Martinez. Investments and loans solicited by Martinez and Jones ranged from $25,000 to $500,000. Other investors included a Buckeye

In the ACC filings, Martinez claimed that the company sold its largest asset, the No Fear drink brand, to Mix 1 Life Inc. in March 2015 for $12.2 million in cash and stocks with the intention of paying creditors with the proceeds. However, he stated that Mix 1 Life took possession of the No Fear brand but did not follow through in paying for the transaction and “their business dealings have caused the stock price to decline…”

Coy would not comment on whether or not the ACC is referring the case to another agency for criminal charges. She did state that any potential future criminal charges could be pursued by the U.S. District Attorney, Arizona Attorney General or Maricopa County Attorney.

MARTINEZ from page 1

(Photo by Kimberly Carrillo)

This is the home of Lucio George Martinez in Chandler. The Arizona Corporation Commission found he illegally sold securities in a beverage company and failed to pay back investors.

City of Chandler Insider

Chandler offers many health and wellness opportunities for residents

Health and wellness for Chandler residents is a priority of Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the City Council. However, this endeavor didn’t happen overnight; it took decades of leadership to build a strong parks and recreation system, popular amenities and diverse experiences for the entire community.

Chandler’s Community Services Department is home to the City’s Parks, Recreation and Aquatics divisions. Each division has numerous programs and activities to keep even the most active

individual or family busy.

Take your pick… Chandler is home to more than 60 parks – from large regional parks, to community parks, neighborhood parks and special-use facilities. In fact, community parks are located in every square mile of the city, so you can always find a nearby park within walking distance when the weather permits.

The city’s Tumbleweed Recreation Center, Chandler Tennis Center, and Snedigar Sportsplex facilities also provide year-round programs for residents of all ages. The staff works throughout the year to coordinate youth and adult sports leagues and tournaments, adult tennis leagues and tournaments, youth camps, instructional classes, personal training and drop-in fitness programs for youths, teens, adults and active adults (55+).

The best place to start exploring what’s available is online at chandleraz.gov/ parksandrec. The website is a great resource to stay informed about upcoming events, programs and more. The department publishes “Break Time Magazine” each quarter, featuring the latest recreation classes, activities and special events. The magazine is available online and hard copies are placed at several city facilities. There also are monthly e-newsletters that residents may subscribe to in order to stay in the know.

With the summer weather here to stay, cooling down with a swim at a city pool is always an affordable option. The Aquatics Division operates and maintains six aquatic centers located throughout the city. Yearround swimming programs (lessons, lap swim, and extended public swim operational hours) are available at various pools. The newly popular paddle board yoga also is now available at Hamilton Aquatic Center. Chandler’s commitment to invest in public parks, playgrounds and affordable recreational facilities also has been noticed on a national level. For the 11th consecutive year, Chandler was honored with a Playful City USA designation, an accomplishment

shared by just 12 founding cities since KaBoom! Initiated the program in 2007.

Health and wellness extends beyond parks, recreation and fitness initiatives. There are a variety of free health-related resources available at your fingertips through the Chandler Public Library. Download the Cloud Library to have access to ebooks and audio books on healthy

visits to treat patients, while connecting them with medical professionals at the VA. The program also identified 950 residents that were eligible for medical care through the VA.

The city also has partnered with Coast2Coast Rx to allow all Chandler residents, regardless of income, age, or health status to participate in the program

living, exercise, fitness and more.

Cardholders also may download dozens of magazines for free via Zinio, including “Clean Eating,” “Diabetic Living,” “Prevention,” “Runner’s World,” “Vegetarian Times” and “Yoga Journal. “

Those with the library cards also have access to the online Health & Wellness Resource Center. This medical database features information from reference books, magazines, journals and pamphlets. Patrons may research a medication, find out about what treatments are available for a disease or condition, watch videos on a variety of topics and get information about alternative health treatments. Nothing can replace consulting with a physician, but the information can be a valuable resource to stay informed and conduct research.

Chandler Fire, Health and Medical is another city department that offers a free health-focused program available to Chandler veterans. The Department has partnered with the Veterans Administration in a national pilot program to manage the delivery of healthcare for Chandler veterans. This past year, Chandler paramedics conducted nearly 90 in-home

and save on the cost of their medications. There is no cost to the city to participate and the free prescription drug care can be printed online at coast2coastrx.com/ cities/az/chandler. Residents may use it at all pharmacy chains and most independent pharmacies in Chandler as many times as needed. The card gives customers an average discount of 65 percent off the retail price. Since the program’s inception, more than $550,000 has been saved by residents. All of these efforts are in line with Mayor Tibshraeny’s Health Connect initiative, which was designed to create a healthier Chandler by promoting financial, physical and mental health. In fact, the Mayor also created the “Day of Play” event in October, which brings together the community to recognize the importance of fitness, health and wellness for all ages. More information on the Health Connect initiative is available at chandleraz. gov/connect.

For more information, or for ways to stay busy during the summer months at city facilities, visit chandleraz.gov/parksandrec. Content for the Chandler Insider is provided by the City of Chandler’s Communications and Public Affairs Office.

(Photos courtesy of City of Chandler)

The Paseo Trail is popular with walkers, joggers, stroller-pushers and bicyclists.

Swimming is a great way to stay fit and have fun. The City of Chandler has many pools, where people can cool off.

Veteran Rex Van Bibber gets assistance from the Chandler Fire, Health & Medical Department. And through a partnership with the Veterans Administration, he’s able to access his VA benefits.

City of Chandler Insider

EMPLOYEE PROFILE: Kara Boley, wellness coordinator, Human Resources Department

Chandler’s wellness coordinator, Kara Boley, has been with the city for only a few months, but the impact of her work already is being felt throughout the entire organization. Health and wellness for Chandler residents is a priority of the mayor and council, and the initiative starts internally with city employees. Leading the charge is Boley.

A native of Michigan, Boley followed her husband, Matt Savoie, to Chandler when he was relocated in 2015. Immediately, they fell in love with the community and knew they had settled in the perfect place to call home.

“Moving from Michigan, we were amazed at the number of parks, family activities and health and wellness amenities offered by the city,” Boley said. Both Kara and her husband lead an active lifestyle, so it’s no surprise to find them hiking a trail at Paseo Vista, jogging at Snedigar, playing volleyball at the TRC (Tumbleweed Recreation Center) or exploring a nearby park.

Her career in the wellness industry began as a registered dietitian in a hospital setting. Although she learned a lot of valuable information, she realized that the hospital wasn’t for her. Kara discovered that her passion is prevention, helping people make lifestyle changes to improve their health and quality of life. After a few opportunities to teach health and wellness classes on a freelance basis, she transitioned to working in the corporate wellness department for a health insurance company.

Prior to joining the city, Boley worked for a third-party wellness vendor creating

health and wellness programs for 35 different employers and overseeing a staff of seven. One day she came across an email newsletter, and happened to scroll toward the bottom. There she saw that the city was hiring a wellness coordinator. It was the perfect job for her skill set, located in her new hometown and almost too good to be true. Boley applied, and the rest is history. Her passion for wellness, the love of her job and her genuine excitement to share what she’s working on for employees come

A LEADER IN NEUROREHABILITATION for East Valley

A LEADER IN NEUROREHABILITATION for East Valley

across in every interaction with Boley. “I knew this job was for me; it’s the perfect fit, and I’m so happy to work for Chandler.”

She greets staff with a bright smile and is eager to take on new challenges. The best part of her job is spending time with employees. “Being able to teach my co-workers bits of information and show how to make a healthy lifestyle work for them is very rewarding,” she said. “I love seeing those aha moments happen. They are genuinely interested and open to learning more.”

Every day is different, and she’s rarely tied to her desk because it is a priority to visit different city areas. She works closely with the city’s safety coordinators and internal communications staff, offers one-on-one coaching, creates fliers for upcoming presentations, arranges a variety of on-site health screenings and serves as a liaison to the city’s health provider. She recently started teaching a free boot camp fitness class for employees after work hours – an idea suggested by an employee.

When she’s not being active, you’ll find her buried in an e-book. “During the city’s new employee orientation, I learned about the library’s free app to download ebooks and audio books,” Boley said. “I’ve saved a ton of money by using CloudLibrary. There are also a ton of health and wellness resources available through our libraries –what a great resource!”

She’s so fit, fierce and ready to take on any challenge that people are surprised when they learn that she is afraid of heights. Instead, Boley prefers to excel on the ground – just another example of a real-life Wonder Woman in Chandler.

A LEADER IN NEUROREHABILITATION for East Valley

HealthSouth East Valley Rehabilitation Hospital specializes in comprehensive rehabilitation for many conditions such as neurological impairments resulting from an illness, accident or surgery. Neuro conditions we provide intensive therapy programs for using advanced technologies and expert care include:

•Brain injury

HealthSouth East Valley Rehabilitation Hospital specializes in comprehensive rehabilitation for many conditions such as neurological impairments resulting from an illness, accident or surgery. Neuro conditions we provide intensive therapy programs for using advanced technologies and expert care include:

•Multiple sclerosis

•Brain injury

•Parkinson’s disease

•Spinal cord injury

•Stroke

•Trauma

HealthSouth East Valley Rehabilitation Hospital specializes in comprehensive rehabilitation for many conditions such as neurological impairments resulting from an illness, accident or surgery. Neuro conditions we provide intensive therapy programs for using advanced technologies and expert care include:

•Multiple sclerosis

•Parkinson’s disease

•Brain injury

•Multiple sclerosis

•Parkinson’s disease

•Spinal cord injury

•Stroke

•Trauma

•Spinal cord injury

•Stroke

•Trauma

To help patients regain independence, they receive their own neurorehabilitation team and a personalized program to improve motor skills, cognition, balance, memory, daily living tasks and language skills.

To help patients regain independence, they receive their own neurorehabilitation team and a personalized program to improve motor skills, cognition, balance, memory, daily living tasks and language skills.

To help patients regain independence, they receive their own neurorehabilitation team and a personalized program to improve motor skills, cognition, balance, memory, daily living tasks and language skills.

Learn more about our neurorehabilitation program by calling 480 567-0350 or visiting healthsoutheastvalley.com

Learn more about our neurorehabilitation program by calling 480 567-0350 or visiting healthsoutheastvalley.com

Learn more about our neurorehabilitation program by calling 480 567-0350 or visiting healthsoutheastvalley.com

5652 E. Baseline Road

Mesa, AZ 85206

5652 E. Baseline Road • Mesa, AZ 85206

Baseline Road

(Photos courtesy of Kara Boley)

Kara Boley is the City of Chandler’s new wellness coordinator.

Boley participated in the ShePower Half Marathon in downtown Chandler earlier this year, along with other races in the Valley.

A Michigan native, Boley leads an active lifestyle, so it’s not surprising to see her and her husband hiking a trail at Paseo Vista, jogging at Snedigar, playing volleyball at the TRC (Tumbleweed Recreation Center) or exploring a nearby park.

Building a freeway in this weather is not for the faint of heart

BY PAUL MARYNIAK

As the temperature rises, so does Leon Nelson’s wariness.

The Chandler man rolls up and down along the sidelines of Pecos Road in his airconditioned utility truck, making sure South Mountain Freeway crews are guarding themselves against the brutal heat.

“I’m fortunate that one of my jobs is driving a truck,” said Nelson, a safety lead for the last nine years of his 20 years as a journeyman electrician/road worker.

Nelson’s job is ensuring the safety of the 40 to 60 workers now on the site of the freeway’s Ahwatukee segment.

And the biggest threat to worker safety right now is blistering daytime heat.

“Heat illness does happen,” Nelson said. “The guys we have are trained in the signs of heat illness.”

Despite that training, it’s easy for the men to become so involved in their work that they may forget to follow basic precautions passed along to about 1,400 workers who will be outside along the entire 22-mile stretch of the freeway once construction activity starts to peak in a month or two.

Even now, Nelson said, “there are little remote operations” along the freeway’s socalled Pecos Segment where only a couple men might be working. “I let the truck run and let the guys sit in it.”

“Cases of chilled bottled water, protective lightweight clothing, sun visors and shaded tent areas, coupled with mandatory training on dealing with extreme heat, are just some of the ways crews building the Loop 202 South Mountain Freeway are prepared for temperatures

forecast to surge beyond 110,” the Arizona Department of Transportation said in a release last month.

Those precautions are standard for all ADOT crews on any state road project, department spokesman Dustin Krugel said.

“With a project as large as the South Mountain Freeway, there’s no opportunity for workers to take a summer vacation to get away from the heat,” Krugel said. “People are relying on us to get this freeway done fast and reduce the impact on the community.”

“Water, rest and shade. Those are the three big precautions,” he added, noting that crews work on a “buddy system” and are trained to look after one another for signs of heat prostration.

“If you wait till you’re thirsty, it’s too

late,” he added, saying crews are reminded each morning to “get rest throughout the day, sit down, drink water and get in the shade.”

Some precautions come in the form of products that private companies specifically design for men and women who work outside in hot weather.

“There’s new products all the time,” Nelson said.

For example, tightly wrapped cylinders of chilled towels can be cracked open and placed on the back of the neck. Small packets of electrolyte powder in different flavors are available to be mixed into water or a beverage.

Popsicle-like products also are handed out to workers at the end of the day.

“Some guys forget how long of a drive

they have home, so we give these to them so they can stay hydrated,” Nelson explained.

Crews also start working by 5:30 a.m. and quit by anytime between 12:30 and 2 p.m. to keep them out of the intense lateafternoon temperatures.

While most of the workers are Arizona natives or have lived here a long time, occasionally a newcomer is on a crew.

That requires more careful management of their time outside until they get acclimated, Krugel said.

“We don’t put them out for the whole day right away,” he added. “We have them go a few hours and then gradually have them stay out longer so they get used to the heat.”

Nelson said more tents have been erected along the Pecos Segment than other stretches of the freeway because the work areas tend to be more expansive. If the workers can’t eat lunch inside an airconditioned truck cab, they’re encouraged to take a break under the tent.

Freeway developer Connect 202 Partners also has emergency medical technicians on site to check blood pressure, heart rate, respiration and body temperature.

Soon, Nelson will be adding another summertime duty to his daily workload: watching the skies for approaching monsoon storms.

“One of my jobs is to monitor the storms and see how fast they are approaching,” Nelson said. “But usually we don’t have to worry much because the storms come late enough in the day that everyone’s already done for the day.”

(Photo by Arizona Department of Transportation)

Leon Nelson, left, safety lead for crews working on the Pecos Road segment of the South Mountain Freeway, briefed TV crews about how workers were preparing for the recent heat wave, showing off the cooling tent and a tableful of products that his teams use to keep cool and hydrated.

Experts offer tips on keeping dogs and cats safe this 4th of July and the entire summer

BY ALISON STANTON

On July 4, as the two-legged residents of Chandler and other parts of the East Valley get ready to celebrate the country’s 241st birthday with fireworks, barbecues and pool parties, the four-legged residents would be just as happy with a quiet celebration.

Cindy Goetz, president of Lost Dogs Arizona, said the loud noises associated with most Fourth of July celebrations can cause many pets to panic and run away.

“More pets are lost around the Fourth of July than any other time of year in our state,” Goetz said, adding that local animal shelters will typically see an increase of two to three times the number of animals seeking shelter.

“Many pets that get lost during this time get injured or worse.”

To help keep dogs and cats as safe and calm as possible during the upcoming noisy holiday, Dr. Gabriela Durig, an associate veterinarian at Animal Medical Center of Chandler, said all pets – even those who are usually outside most of the time – should be safely secured indoors on the Fourth of July in a cool area with access to fresh water.

Because pets have been known to climb fences and dig through enclosures on July 4, pets should not be kept in the yard, despite how safe it may seem.

Vanessa Cornwall, marketing and fundraising coordinator for Lost our Home Pet Rescue in Tempe, said that leaving on a television or playing music can help to drown out the loud sounds of fireworks, including those set off in the neighborhood.

“You may not be near a firework show, but that doesn’t mean a neighbor won’t set off fireworks,” said Cornwall, a Chandler resident.

Owners should also snap a photo or two of their pets prior to July 4, just to be sure a current photo is available should they go missing, Cornwall added.

Pool party safety

In addition to the bright lights and noises on July 4, other common summertime activities like pool parties can pose a hazard to pets.

“It is important to remember that although we like to swim, not all pets want to join in on the fun,” Durig said.

“Some breeds do not do well in the water and precautions should be taken. These breeds include: pugs, bulldogs, French bulldogs, basset hounds, corgis, and dachshunds.

“All pets should have identification, so owners should make sure their microchip information is up to date and have an identification tag on them,” Durig said. “If you know your pet has noise phobias or historically does not do well with this holiday, please talk with your veterinarian to discuss possible behavioral therapy.”

“Owners who know their pet cannot swim should have a fence around the pool or only allow their pet outside when they

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

Wisdom teeth removal

Wisdom teeth are almost certain to cause problems if left in place. This is particularly true of impacted wisdom teeth, such problems may occur suddenly and often at the most inconvenient time. While the kids are out for summer vacation, there couldn’t be a better time to take care of this preventative procedure.

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.

For a consultation, please call Dr. Shah at 480.814.9500. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. Board Certified, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

can be watched closely,” Durig said.

“For pets that do enjoy the water, assure they know where steps are to enter and exit the pool, always have fresh water available for and have areas of shade available.”

There are various alternative ways to keep a dog cool, Goetz said; these include plastic swimming pools, sprinklers, misting systems, frozen “pupsicles” and ice.

Watch pets at barbecues

While dogs and cats may be more than happy to sample a cheeseburger fresh off the grill, Cornwall said owners must be

vigilant when barbecuing.

“Barbecues can offer tantalizing treats for pets; however, most of them are toxic to our pets,” she said, adding that hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken and baby back ribs can wreak havoc on a pet’s stomach.

“Onions and garlic, common ingredients, are toxic to dogs and cats and can lead to fatal poisoning.”

Because alcoholic beverages have the potential to poison pets, Cornwall said owners must keep a sharp eye on the adult beverages and their pets, and not leave their dogs and cats unattended with any drink they can reach.

These

paws are not always meant for walking

Goetz said dog owners who want to take their pooches for a walk should remember a key tip: “If it’s uncomfortable for you, it’s likely to be uncomfortable for your dog.”

“Keep walks short and when temperatures are lower, like in the early morning or late evening, and pay particular attention to the temperature of the walking surface,” Goetz said.

If a person cannot comfortably walk barefoot on the sidewalk or road, Cornwall said this means it is too hot for a dog’s paws and pads.

“Remember the longer the walk, the hotter the pavement will feel since there is not cooling down between the steps,” Cornwall said.

to remove wisdom teeth

(Photo courtesy of Cindy Goetz)

The dog of a volunteer for Lost Dogs Arizona keeps cool in the summer.

Children hit the ice to chill out as temperatures outside sizzle

PHOTOS BY KIMBERLY CARRILLO

While temperatures were scorching outside, adults and children cooled off during a recent public skating session at The Ice Den Chandler. Public skating events in the summer run every day through August 4. To learn more about Ice Den’s cool deals, visit icedenchandler.com.

Kinley Cahill, 5, of Chandler, tries to keep her face warm as she skates.

Tyra Simmons, 12, of Casa Grande, shows her skating experience on the ice.

Brianna Rodriguez, 13, of Maricopa, gets some help balancing on her first time skating.

Evan Gefroh, 8, of Gilbert, enjoys the challenges of ice skating.Charly Scott, 7, of Chandler, tries to keep her balance.

Zoe Smith, 6, of Ahwatukee, glides along with some help.

Shelby Beercroft, 14, helps Marcus Rodriguez, 11, of Maricopa, after he fell.

Xavier Rose, 13, of Chandler, enjoys the cold.

East Valley firefighters answer the call for ‘Cornbread for a Cause’ at Z’Tejas

BY DAVID M. BROWN

Eight Valley firefighters served the community in a different way June 14.

For three evening hours, they shook margaritas at the bar and delivered tacos tableside at the Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill in Tempe, 20 W. Sixth Street, as part of the company’s “Cornbread for a Cause” corporate giving program. The five Valley restaurants, including one in Chandler, two in Phoenix and one in Scottsdale, serve Mexican and Southwestern food.

The firefighters were Luke Killough, Kyle Wilcock, Dustin Preston, John Duffy, Gordon Lott, Eric Arias and Brad Whitley from the Tempe Fire Department, and Ben Lindquist from the Phoenix Fire Department.

Through June, a portion of sales from the signature Z’Tejas cornbread raised money for the United Phoenix Firefighters Charities (UPFFC), which comprises 2,600 professional firefighters from departments in Chandler, Phoenix, Tempe, Glendale and Peoria.

Founded in 1964, UPFFC distributes proceeds equally to the fire departments, and, these, in turn, fund area charities and community groups they designate. The men support these efforts through Phoenixbased Local 493, AFL-CIO.

The East Valley effort began about 20 years ago. “We recognized as firefighters that this would be a platform that would be an opportunity to do good for the community,” explained Whitley, who coordinates the efforts for roughly 150 firefighters serving the city at six firehouses, with a seventh being built.

The United Phoenix Firefighters have raised more than $10 million for a host of community causes. In 2016, they raised more than $750,000 for 50 groups

around the Valley, including the Muscular Dystrophy Association; Valley of the Sun United Way; Tempe Community Action Agency; American Heart Association; Tempe Tardeada Scholarship; Big Brothers/Big Sisters; and the Don Carlos Awards.

“During the past year, we raised money partnering with C.A.S.A. Tempe on Mill Avenue for ASU football tailgate events,” Whitley said. “Money raised goes to a variety of events/organizations throughout the city, including elementary schools and various diversity events, and, during the holidays, our annual Target Christmas event allows the department to take children in need shopping and feed them at Peter Piper Pizza.”

Another event the department supports, Tempe Impact Education Foundation (TIE), provides a variety of services promoting education, he added. Its Connecting with Kids helps with medical and dental services; the Beans Rice Program provides 12,000 pounds to more than 1,000 families in the area; and scholarships are provided for staff to obtain certification in critical areas for the local school districts.

The Z’Tejas/UPFFC partnership began April 1. The Austin, Texas-based restaurant group debuted “Cornbread for A Cause” in December 2015 to raise funds for charitable organizations in the communities it serves.

“This is the first time we have partnered with the UPFFC,” said Stephen O’Connor, chief operating officer for the company from its Texas headquarters. In 1989, the first Z’Tejas opened in a Victorian house on historic Sixth Street in downtown Austin and has since expanded in Texas and into Arizona.

“We chose to partner with the UPFFC because we want to support

the tremendous work they do in our community,” O’Connor said. “The UPFFC is a like-minded organization that shares the mission that working with the community and giving back is an important mission.”

“Our staff in Tempe was honored to greet firefighters from Tempe and Phoenix, and we look forward to presenting a check to the group in July,” he added, noting that the evening of June 14, 48 cornbreads were sold in Tempe, of which a portion of the revenue will be donated.

To date, Z’Tejas has contributed $150,000-plus to charities in Arizona and Texas. Other Phoenix organizations have included Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Military Assistance Mission in Arizona, and the Scottsdale 20-30 Club, O’Connor said. In just the past two quarters, Z’Tejas

contributed $15,000-plus to Arizona Animal Welfare League and more than $17,000 to Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

“As firefighters, we understand our job isn’t done when our shifts are over,” Whitley said. “We encounter situations the general public just doesn’t see – not just fires but food and water deprivation, lack of shelter, abuse and other scenarios that hurt individuals, families and neighborhoods. We feel it is our responsibility to help, and this partnership with Z’Tejas is another opportunity for the departments to do that.”

For more information on Z’Tejas Cornbread for a Cause, see ztejas.com/ cornbread-for-a-cause. For more details on the United Phoenix Firefighters Charities, visit phxffcharities.org.

Vanilla prices soar for cake, ice cream in midst of bean shortage

BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY

The vanilla ice cream cone may be in danger. The quintessential summertime treat could be harder to find this summer as local purveyors feel the effects of a global vanilla bean shortage.

Based on estimates from local business owners, the price of vanilla bean products — including extracts and pastes used to create ice cream — began to rise dramatically six to ten months ago.

The source of price spike: a shortage of vanilla beans from Madagascar, which provides roughly 80 percent of the world’s supply.

The price Chandler’s Ice Cream Sammies pays for its vanilla has gone up “by hundreds of dollars” in less than a year, said employee Asia Caldwell.

The price is not the only problem. The vanilla bean scarcity at the center of the issue also means vanilla is harder to find for local businesses.

Ice Cream Sammies staff has been able to insulate the company from the dramatic price increases and scarcity to an extent by stockpiling vanilla for future use. Caldwell also noted that only a handful of ice creams they make in-house use vanilla.

The shortage does not just affect ice cream. Makers of other vanilla-infused products — from coffee to cakes — are also feeling the burn in the East Valley.

For Mesa’s Smitholator Cookie Shop, the price of vanilla has risen roughly 30 percent over the past six months.

“It affects the bottom line a little, but it doesn’t cause us to raise prices because we just absorb it,”

impact of the vanilla shortage. Owner Tricia Arce used to source her Mexican vanilla bean paste from an online retailer, but the price rise along with shipping costs forced her to look for a cheaper, local supplier.

Luckily, she found nearby Gilbert retailer Shar’s Bosch Kitchen Store.

Still, Arce has seen the prices at Shar’s rise in recent months, though a close working relationship with the provider has allowed Arce to keep her vanilla costs down.

“If (Shar’s) runs out, I will have to look elsewhere and that could raise prices,” Arce said.

Shar’s has seen vanilla prices rise 25 to 50 percent over the past several months, beginning in the Christmas baking season. The company has also experienced shortages and went through a nearly two-month period when it could not find vanilla products. It recently upped its order to avoid running out in the future, employee Lisa Westwood said.

Vanilla cultivation and curing is a labor-intensive process, especially in Madagascar, where the plants have to be hand-pollinated by workers. Vanilla was originally cultivated in Mexico, where the plant is naturally pollinated by a small bee called melipone, according to global vanilla supplier Nielsen-Massey.

Much of the scarcity has been caused by increased demand as more food manufacturers and consumers

(Photos courtesy of Z’Tejas)

Firefighters Gordon Lott (Tempe Fire Department), Ben Lindquist (Phoenix Fire Department), Brad Whitley (Tempe Fire Department) and Dustin Preston (Tempe Fire Department) served the community in a different way on June 14.

Heather Smith, the shop’s owner, said.

Fluff It Marshmallows, a dessert shop in Gilbert, has also felt the economic

(Photo by Kimberly Carrillo)

Amy Moss, head baker at Fluff It Marshmallows in Gilbert, makes some treats for the shop. The business has felt the economic impact of the vanilla shortage.

Microchip Technology Inc. offers new devices with large memory in small packages

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Some say good things come in small packages. Microchip Technology Inc. claims its new devices prove that mantra.

The provider of microcontroller, mixed-signal, analog and Flash-IP solutions, headquartered in Chandler, has announced its new PIC32MM “GPM” microcontrollers (MCUs) are available. The eXtreme Low Power (XLP) devices hold large memory in small packages, offering plenty of battery life for space-restricted applications. The new microcontrollers have many connectivity options, core independent peripherals and featureheavy development boards. The MCUs are ideal for digital audio applications, gaming/entertainment devices, Internet of Things (loT) sensor nodes, and working with portable medical devices.

The XLP PIC32MM “GPM” family of MCUs allows developers to reduce power consumption, development time and board space. The devices offer powersaving choices including sleep modes with existing consumption as low as 650 nA with random access memory (RAM) retention, to significantly extend battery life in portable applications.

PIC32MM “GPM” family incorporates core independent peripherals, including direct memory access and configurable

logic cells, as well as a 12-bit analogto-digital converter, which lets the system accomplish tasks in hardware as it frees up the central processing unit to complete other tasks or go to sleep.

“The PIC32MM ‘GPM’ family extends Microchip’s cost-effective XLP PIC32MM portfolio by adding USB coupled with more memory and pins for growing application requirements,” Joe Thomsen, vice president of Microchip’s MCU16 business unit, said. “Supported by the popular MPLAB Code Configurator (MCC) tool, customers can set up their peripherals, pins and generate code with the push of a button, greatly reducing time to market.”

Customers can purchase the PIC32MM “GPM” devices in 64 KB, 128 KB and 256 KB Flash variants with their choice of 28-, 36-, 48- and 64-pin packaging options. All device variants are being offered now for orders and samples, while the 28pin UQFN will be available for purchase early next quarter. Volume pricing for the family of products begins at 97 cents each in 10,000-unit quantities.

The PIC32MM USB Curiosity Development Board (DM320107) is being sold for $27.99. The PIC32MM0256GPM064 Processor Plug-

in Module (MA320023) is being offered for $25. Customers can find the Explorer 16/32 Development Board (DM240001-2) for $79.99.

To learn more about Microchip’s PIC32MM “GPM” devices, visit microchip. com/pic32mm.

(Photo courtesy of Microchip)

Microchip has announced its new PIC32MM “GPM” microcontrollers (MCUs) are available. The eXtreme Low Power (XLP) devices hold large memory in small packages.

Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa provides self-pampering services

Looking for a way to get out of the soaring summertime temps? Look no further than Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa.

Settle in with two spa specials in July at The Spa. First, The Eminence, an all-natural organic skin care program, promotes three stages of summertime cleansing: detox, renew, infuse. The detoxifying organic microgreens treatment is a pollution solution. By harnessing the potent antioxidants in microgreens with detoxophane, this treatment provides protection from oxidative damage and the visible signs

of aging as well as enhancing your resistance against pollution and sun radiation. This includes your choice of dermaplane or microdermabrasion, which will soften and smooth skin to reveal a healthy glow for $125.

Next, give your feet a break from the wear and tear of flip-flops and sandals with a Tropical Smoothie Pedicure. Imagine a tropical fruit-scented scrub and a luxurious massage with piña colada lotion, all while reclining in a zero-gravity chair. Take a tropical vacation with the Tropical Smoothie Pedicure for $55.

This summer you can treat your family

and friends to join in with their own summertime spa excursion. Purchase any combination of five 60-minute spa services or five 90-minute spa services including massages, facials and body treatments for $375 and $510 for all five packages. You can also share them with your friends and family. The spa series packages must be purchased by August 31 and can be used through the end of 2017.

Keep an eye on the Ocotillo Village Health Clubs & Spa Facebook page for Summer Flash Sales offering retail deals every day. Each sale lasts only one

day, so be on the lookout throughout summer.

While enjoying spa treatments at the Spa at the Village, your experience includes complimentary all-day access to the state-of-the-art health club. Make a full day of it by sitting next to the gorgeous pool and soaking in some sunshine or stay indoors and work out in our cardio, weight and multipurpose rooms.

For more information about the Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa or to book your next spa appointment, call 480-656-0045 or visit villageclubs.com.

SPECIAL TO SANTAN SUN NEWS

(Photos courtesy of Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa)

The Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa offers a variety of services this summer.

People looking to pamper themselves can indulge in spa specials in July at the spa, including The Eminence, an all-natural organic skin care program.

BEFORE THE ARIZONA POWER PLANT AND TRANSMISSION LINE SITING COMMITTEE

Docket No. L-00000B-17-0182-00175 • Case No. 175

IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION OF SALT RIVER PROJECT AGRICULTURAL IMPROVEMENT AND POWER DISTRICT, IN CONFORMANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF ARIZONA REVISED STATUTES, SECTIONS 40-360, et seq., FOR A CERTIFICATE OF ENVIRONMENTAL COMPATIBILITY AUTHORIZING THE PRICE ROAD CORRIDOR PROJECT, A DOUBLE-CIRCUIT 230 kV TRANSMISSION LINE ORIGINATING AT THE EXISTING KNOX SUBSTATION AND TERMINATING AT A NEW RS-27 SUBSTATION LOCATED AT GERMANN AND PRICE ROADS ALL WITHIN THE CITY OF CHANDLER, ARIZONA, IN MARICOPA COUNTY.

NOTICE OF HEARING

A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD before the Arizona Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Committee (“Committee”) regarding the application of Salt River Project Agricultural Improvement and Power District (“SRP” or “Applicant”) for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility (“CEC”) authorizing the Price Road Corridor Project (the “Project”). The Project will consist of approximately 4.8 miles of new double-circuit 230 kiloVolt (“kV”) transmission from the existing Knox Substation to a new RS-27 substation. All Project components are located in the City of Chandler, Arizona, within Maricopa County. A map of the project is attached as Exhibit A. The hearing will commence at the Crowne Plaza Phoenix Chandler Resort, 1 N. San Marcos Place, Chandler, Arizona 85225, on July 24, 2017, at 10:00 a.m., and will continue weekdays through July 27, 2017, as necessary, beginning at 9:00 a.m. on each day. If a tour is taken, it will begin on July 25, 2017, at 9:00 a.m., or an alternative date and time set by the Chairman of the Committee (“Chairman”). Any revisions to the hearing schedule, if necessary, will be noticed on the Applicant’s and Arizona Corporation Commission’s (“ACC”) websites.

SRP’s project website is: http://www.priceroadcorridor.com

The ACC website is: http://www.azcc.gov/ AZ_Power_Plant/LineSiting-Calendar.asp

PUBLIC COMMENT WILL BE TAKEN DURING A SPECIAL EVENING SESSION ON JULY 24, 2017, BEGINNING AT 6:00 P.M., AT THE CROWNE PLAZA PHOENIX CHANDLER RESORT, 1 N. SAN MARCOS PLACE, CHANDLER, ARIZONA 85225. PUBLIC COMMENT MAY ALSO BE TAKEN AT THE BEGINNING OF EACH HEARING DAY, OR AT OTHER TIMES DURING THE HEARING AT THE DISCRETION OF THE CHAIRMAN.

The Chairman may, at his discretion, recess the hearing to a time and place to be announced during the hearing, or to be determined after the recess. The date, time and place at which the hearing will be resumed will be posted on the above-noted Project website and the ACC website.

NOTE: NOTICE OF ANY SUCH RESUMED HEARING WILL BE GIVEN; HOWEVER, PUBLISHED NOTICE OF SUCH A RESUMED HEARING IS NOT REQUIRED.

The Committee may conduct a tour of the Project area. The map and itinerary of any such tour will be available at the hearing and posted on the Project website. Members of the public may follow the Committee on the tour. During the tour, the Committee may hear testimony at stops on the tour concerning where the stops are located, what is visible at the stops, and the relevance of the location and view to the Application and Project. No other discussion or deliberation concerning the Application will occur during the tour. A court reporter or recording device will record any testimony taken on the tour for transcription.

Copies of the Application, containing detailed maps of the Project site and detailed information about the Project, and prehearing and hearing transcripts, will be available for inspection at the following locations:

❯ ACC Docket Control Center, Phoenix Office: 1200 West Washington Street, Suite 108, Phoenix, Arizona 85007 (or on the ACC website eDocket at: http://www.azcc.gov for viewing the Application and filings)

❯ Chandler Public Library, Downtown Branch: 22 S. Delaware Street, Chandler, Arizona 85225

❯ Chandler Public Library, Sunset Branch: 4930 West Ray Road, Chandler, Arizona 85226

❯ SRP’s website at: http://www.priceroadcorridor.com

Each county, municipal government, and state agency interested in the Project that desires to be a party to the proceedings shall, not less than ten days before July 24, 2017, file a Notice of Intent to Become a Party with the Docket Control, Arizona Corporation Commission, 1200 West Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85007.

Any domestic, non-profit corporation or association formed in whole or in part to promote conservation or

natural beauty; to protect the environment, personal health or other biological values; to preserve historical sites; to promote consumer interests; to represent commercial and industrial groups; or to promote the orderly development of the area in which the Project is located that desires to become a party to the proceedings shall, not less than ten days before July 24, 2017, file a Notice of Intent to Become a Party with the Docket Control, Arizona Corporation Commission, 1200 West Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85007.

The Committee or the Chairman, at any time deemed appropriate, may make other persons parties to the proceedings. Any person may make a limited appearance at a hearing by filing a statement in writing with the Docket Control, Arizona Corporation Commission, 1200 West Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85007, not less than five days before July 24, 2017. A person making a limited appearance shall not be a party or have the right to present testimony or cross-examine witnesses.

This proceeding is governed by Arizona Revised Statutes (“A.R.S.”) 40-360 to 40-360.13 and Arizona Administrative Code Rules R14-3-201 to R14-3-220. No substantive communication not in the public record may be made to any member of the Committee. The written decision of the Committee will be submitted to the ACC pursuant to A.R.S. § 40-360.07. Any person intending to be a party to the proceedings on the matter before the ACC must be a party to the proceedings before the Committee.

ORDERED this 15th day of June, 2017.

Thomas K. Chenal, Chairman Arizona Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Committee

Office of the Arizona Attorney General

Cool Dreams Window Tinting offers personalized service, quality installation

BY MEGHANN FINN SEPULVEDA

At the age of 14, Phil White began tinting automobile windows, a skill he learned from his father. Thirty years later, now with a wealth of knowledge and proven industry experience, White proudly owns Cool Dreams Window Tinting.

The family-owned and operated automotive business opened its second location in March, on the southeast corner of Arizona Avenue and Germann Road in Chandler.

Summer is considered the peak season for automobile window tinting, especially for Arizona residents who are forced to manage extreme temperatures and avoid the damaging sun. Window tinting can make a significant difference in cooling a vehicle while also blocking harmful ultraviolet rays.

Cool Dreams Window Tinting, which also has a location in Sierra Vista in southern Arizona, uses high-quality ceramic window films featuring four different lines and specializing in Rayno Window Films.

“These films are free of dye, never fade or change color, provide a great deal of heat resistance and are considered the most superior on the market,” White said. “In addition to offering privacy, these window films are safer and keep glass intact by preventing shattering in the event of an accident.”

He encourages customers to visit the automotive window tinting shop, located at 19015 South Arizona Avenue, and feel how well the film works through heat lamp demonstrations.

White says there are several misconceptions about window tinting.

“There is a common myth that darker

tint is a better option to keep the heat out,” White explained. “We educate our customers and explain how a clear window tint is actually more effective.”

White says he works closely with his customers to determine window tint preferences, performance expectations and privacy needs. Arizona law requires motorists to comply with tint that allows 35 percent of light in the front two windows, but there are no restrictions on the other vehicle windows. Non-reflective tint is permitted on the windshield.

“Ceramic window films block out 99 percent of damaging UV rays and are endorsed by the Skin Cancer Foundation,” White added. “These films offer infrared heat blockage ranging from 50 percent up to 90 percent among other types that are currently available.”

White has worked at both large car dealerships and small shops, and traveled internationally as a sales representative and technical trainer for industry product leaders.

“In addition to myself, we have one other installer, along with a front-end receptionist,” White said. “We take pride in our shop and offer a nice facility where customers can interact with us and watch the complete installation process.”

Cool Dreams Window Tinting also offers custom tint graphic application for vehicles. Customers can often make a same-day or next-day appointment, during regular business hours between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Most window tinting jobs take

approximately two to four hours, and complimentary transportation home is available, courtesy of the company.

White, a father of five children, says he’s excited to be living and working in the East Valley.

“We decided to move here in the spring from Sierra Vista for the top-rated schools and churches and overall feel of this great community,” he said.

Cool Dreams Window Tinting is located at 19015 South Arizona Avenue. It’s open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For an appointment, call 480-861-4357.

Why The Balloon Works!

A balloon can be placed into your stomach to help you lose weight. As of today, there are two FDA approved intragastric balloons available, the Orbera™ Managed Weight Loss System and the Reshape™ Integrated Dual Balloon. The balloons are made of silicone and are very safe sitting in the stomach. Both require a 15-minute sedated procedure, where the balloon is placed (non-surgically) into the stomach endoscopically. There is no cutting or stitches involved. The balloon stays in the stomach for 6 months and then needs to be removed with another quick outpatient procedure. There are no long-term side effects from the balloon sitting in the stomach for 6 months.

Studies have shown that diet and exercise alone can help someone lose on average 7 lbs of weight. If you add a gastric balloon to a diet and exercise program patients achieve over 21lbs of weight is lost instead. Some people have lost up to 60lbs of weight with the

balloon in place. A balloon adds volume to the stomach, so people cannot eat as much, and it also decreases the function of the stomach so a sense of fullness occurs after eating a small amount of food.

The balloons also help reduce many obesity related problems, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, arthritis, and others.

Ready to begin your weight loss journey? At the Gastrotrim Center we offer both intragastric balloons for our patients. We see the placement of a balloon as a stepping stone, or a jump start, to a healthier lifestyle. If you are having trouble losing any more weight with your current diet and exercise program, then the balloon may just be right for you. The balloon can help you lose that 20-30 lbs (or more) to put you on a different path, and then you can concentrate on maintaining that lower weight through a healthy lifestyle and behavior choices.

Cool Dreams Window Tinting uses high-quality ceramic window films featuring four different lines and specializing in Rayno Window Films.

(Photos by Phil White)

Phil White, owner of Cool Dreams Window Tinting, says he works closely with his customers to determine window tint preferences, performance expectations and privacy needs.

White says there are several misconceptions about window tinting.

opt for natural vanilla over synthetic alternatives, according to NielsenMassey’s crop report for spring 2017.

There’s also a strong chance the effects of Cyclone Enawo will further damage supplies in Madagascar.

That supply and demand imbalance has driven up the price of vanilla to historic highs during a price surge that has gone on for a half-decade. Vanilla supplies dwindled early in the 2000s after a market crash forced many suppliers out of the industry. However, since that time the use of natural vanilla has skyrocketed due to increased demand for natural flavorings from large companies like Whole Foods and Hershey.

Madagascar has also faced quality issues in recent years as some farmers have resorted to early harvesting and less effective curing processes in order to combat the threat of theft and take advantage of soaring prices. This includes vacuum sealing green vanilla beans without properly curing them.

“The higher the price, the poorer the quality,” said Josephine Lochhead, president of Cook’s Vanilla, a gourmet vanilla supplier.

The government of Madagascar has set up official markets and put regulations in place to combat early picking and increase the supply of vanilla. Last year, the price for green vanilla beans in Madagascar opened at $33 per kilo.

At the most recent market opening in Madagascar on June 20, buyers offered $34 per kilo for green vanilla beans while growers sought $120 per kilo. The picked

vanilla has to be sold within four days, so the two sides will likely compromise on a figure between $60 and $70 per kilo, Lochhead said.

It takes roughly five to six kilos of green vanilla beans to produce one kilo of cured beans. However, the quality issues have driven that ration to around 8:1, according to the Nielsen-Massey report.

Even retailers like Fluff It Marshmallows that source vanilla from alternative markets are not protected from price hikes since the Madagascar value heavily influences the world market.

Complicating the issue, some alternative markets like Mexico have had low yields recently. Mexico produced less than six tons of cured vanilla so far this year. Madagascar has produced roughly 1,200 tons during that time.

The Madagascar price has skyrocketed so high that farmers are “swimming in cash,” Lochhead added, which creates a volatile and potentially dangerous situation. Banks in Madagascar are literally running out of cash, forcing the government to put regulations in place limiting the amount of cash that can be withdrawn and creating an unstable situation in the country.

How much longer the vanilla price surge will last is still up in the air. Suppliers like Cook’s Vanilla are being very cautious in their buying practices and are hesitant to stockpile too much product. During the price crash in the early 2000s, the price dropped from $650 to $20 per kilo in one week, with devastating results for some companies.

“Nobody wants to be holding the beans when price drops,” said Lochhead.

Local attorneys offer advice on how to avoid heat stroke

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

As summer temperatures skyrocket well into triple digits, the risk of suffering heat stroke increases. East Valley attorneys Mark and Alexis Breyer, known as “The Husband & Wife Law Team,” recently shared some tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of heat stroke.

The couple, who has several offices around the Valley and clients in Chandler, advises residents to do things like drink plenty of water, wear loose clothing and apply sunscreen. These tips are well-known, but the couple cautioned “There are many others that most people are not aware of. The news is filled week after week with either a child or animal being left in a car during the heat of the summer and suffers heatstroke.”

“When a car is parked, it can rise in temperature by over 20 degrees in just

10 minutes,” they continued. “This means even if you are just leaving for a quick second, that quick second can have drastic effects.”

In addition to not leaving animals and children in hot cars, the Breyers stress people should stay inside during the day and avoid the heat. “Sometimes people underestimate the intensity of the Arizona summer heat and attempt to do some form of physical activity such as hiking, running or walking… it is just too hot to escape heat stroke when it is the peak temperature of the day.”

When it comes to exercising early in the day, the attorneys advise people start moderately, then increase their workouts only once they have acclimated to the temperature. Ultimately, the Breyers wrote, “Caution is key when dealing with the Arizona heat!”

Chandler teen earns Boys & Girls Clubs’ Youth of the Year honor

BY LEAH GILCHRIST

Chandler teen Leo Martinez has been selected as the Youth of the Year at the Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley.

Out of a group of eight teens, Martinez was selected for the honor, which is awarded to youths who exemplify the qualities of leadership, service, academic excellence and dedication to living a healthy lifestyle.

“It was an honor just to receive the award,” Martinez said.

Martinez is a recent graduate from Chandler High School and will attend Arizona State University in the fall to study graphic design.

The award, now in its 70th year, strives to honor and award some of the most inspiring youths across the country. Finalists for the title follow an application process that includes a series of three essays, an application and answering questions before a panel. Martinez said he didn’t think about applying for the award until a friend went through the application process.

Following his naming in the East Valley, Martinez went on to compete for the title for the state of Arizona. The state title comes with an award of a $5,000 college scholarship from the Boys & Girls Club.

“Leo embodies strong values in leadership, service, academic excellence and living a healthy lifestyle,” Mark Hanke, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley, said in a press release. “We are very proud to have Leo represent

Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley at the Arizona Youth of the Year competition.”

Over his last seven years with the Boys & Girls Club, Martinez has developed leadership skills and has become a leader, encouraging both his peers and future generations to be their best. The Boys & Girls Club has opened doors for Martinez throughout his seven years with the program, allowing him to attend leadership conferences, college tours and community service projects.

The Boys & Girls Club of the East Valley honored Martinez at its 25th annual Youth of the Year Banquet, which was presented by the Jerry W. Brock Foundation.

The Hoag Family Trust, The Victoria Lund Foundation, and Maricopa Community Colleges provide funding for the scholarships for the candidates. The Victoria Lund Foundation presented Martinez with a $20,000 scholarship to further his education.

Martinez went on to compete at the state level for the Youth of the Year title. He was among the top four finalists, but did not take the title. The winner at the state level will go on to compete for the Southwest regional title and earn an additional $10,000 scholarship to pursue higher education, with a value renewable for up to four years, totaling $40,000.

“The Boys & Girls Club can be there for you, and will always be there for you,” Martinez said.

Chandler grad students headed to Project Dragonfly

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Graduate students from Miami University’s Project Dragonfly will travel to Africa, Asia, Australia and the Americas to engage in action projects on vital human and ecological issues.

Mary Humecke of Chandler will travel to Baja this month to study desert and marine landscapes through ecological and social field methods. Humecke is a master’s student in the Advanced Inquiry Program (AIP) from Miami University’s Project Dragonfly.

Lauren Stringham of Chandler is headed to Belize this month to study coral reefs, manatees, howler monkeys, jaguars and other wildlife while learning

the methods communities are using to sustain them. Stringham is a master’s student in the Global Field Program (GFP) from Miami University’s Project Dragonfly. Since the program began 13 years ago, Project Dragonfly’s Earth Expeditions graduate courses have engaged more than 2,000 people in firsthand educational and scientific research at critical conservation field sites in Africa, Australia, Asia and the Americas. Dragonfly is within the department of biology at Miami University, a state university in Oxford, Ohio. Learn more about Project Dragonfly on Facebook at facebook.com/PrjDragonfly.

The five regional winners from around the country advance to Washington, D.C., in September for a chance to be named the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Youth of the Year. The finalist receives an additional scholarship of $25,000, renewable for up to four years while pursuing higher education, and has the opportunity to meet the president at the White House.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley has 12 branches and the Mesa Arts Academy, serving more than 36,000 students with programs and opportunities for over 50 years.

Stormy’s Corner

Don’t mess with your SPF

BY STORMY LIGHT

You take a sip of that perfect pink lemonade and while sprawled out on a rainbow-colored blanket, soaking in the sun’s rays, you doze off into a relaxing slumber. The next thing you know, you wake up to a painful burning sensation, like your body has just been dipped in lava. Your arms, legs and face sting. Worried and in pain, you rush inside to frantically search for a remedy to relieve the tender throbbing on your skin. What if you could rewind time before the sunburn even occurred and prevent it?

Living in Arizona in the summer sometimes feels like you’re slowly melting and all the odds are stacked against you. Your skin is a story and it holds the key to uncovering many important things about you. To prevent sun damage, it is important to be aware of how powerful the sun’s rays are and arm yourself with some safe skin tips.

According to the Academy of Dermatology, most kids get much of their lifetime sun exposure before age 18. It is important for kids and teens to learn the importance of a sunscreen’s SPF (sun protection factor) and protect their skin early. For those with fairer complexions, sunlight causes their melanocytes to make more melanin and develop freckles. These spots on the skin are signs of premature exposure. Discoloration in the skin is a problem that many teens and adults are faced with as well. Something I learned while researching discoloration of the skin during the summer was that often times, after sunburns are healed, tissue from the sunburn can turn a different

shade and cause variations of skin color. It is important to have a talk with a dermatologist if you experience discoloration because they can prescribe treatments that are best suited for your skin type. Dermatologists will also be the best at assessing your skin and recommending products that won’t cause a reaction.

Premature wrinkles are another negative effect of basking in the sun unprotected. UVA rays are the rays that cause tanning as well as wrinkles and other signs of premature aging. After prolonged exposure, people’s skin can feel tight and have a leathery feel and appearance. To avoid this, dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with a high SPF that protects from UVA and UVB rays and that people stay covered under that colorful umbrella!

When most people smear on sunscreen, they focus on the face, neck, hands, and body. However, many kids, teens, and adults don’t realize that our lip tissue is susceptible to sunburns and cancer as well. Slather on your favorite lip balm with SPF because it keeps your lips moisturized, protected, and has healing benefits. When the weather is warm and the sun is shining, people of all ages flock outside to leisurely lay by the pool or beach. Remember these summer skin tips and enjoy an unforgettable safe summer with family and friends!

Stormy Light is a 15-year old Hamilton High School student who writes a column for the SanTan Sun News.

(Photo courtesy of Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley)

(From left) Freddie Dobbins, chair of Youth of the Year Committee and board member for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley for the Salt River Project; Leo Martinez, 2017 East Valley Youth of the Year; Jerry Brock, CEO/president of the Jerry W. Brock Foundation; and Mark Hanke, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley, take a moment to acknowledge Martinez’s honor.

(Photo special to SanTan Sun News)

Online school based in Chandler names new principal

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

A new principal is going to take the reins of an online high school with its main offi ce based in Chandler.

Donald Mitchell has been promoted to principal at Primavera Online High School for the coming 2017-18 school year. He will be responsible for leading the 20,000 full- and part-time students, as well as about 300 teachers and staff members who work at the tuition-free, public charter school. Mitchell will also join forces with the school’s leadership team to manage major administrative jobs to steer students toward becoming ready for college and careers.

“I believe that every student deserves the opportunity to learn in an environment in which fl exibility, compassion and encouragement are shown to students on a consistent basis and without hesitation,” Mitchell said. “In addition, I am here to support our teachers as they diligently work to provide students and their parents with the most positive and memorable high school experience possible.”

He is no stranger to education. Mitchell has worked for more than 15 years in the field, serving in many district-level positions and working as electives instructor and Primavera’s assistant principal.

“Donald brings tremendous experience in education to Primavera,”

Damian Creamer, founder and CEO of Primavera, said. “His ability to engage with our students and broader school community will set our school up for a bright future as we head into the upcoming academic year.”

Mitchell has a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in educational leadership and supervision from Arizona State University. He is working toward earning his doctorate at Grand Canyon University in educational and organizational leadership with an emphasis on behavioral health.

Primavera Online High School provides a rigorous curriculum for students in Chandler and around Arizona in grades 6-12. The charter school has an award-winning curriculum and allows students fl exibility to address their unique schedules, along with personalized attention from teachers. Primavera is a member of iNACOL, the International Association for K-12 Online Learning, a nonprofi t organization that coordinates collaboration, advocacy and research to boost quality K-12 online teaching and learning. AdvancED has accredited Primavera and the school has approval from the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA). To learn more about Primavera, visit chooseprimavera. com.

In my Orthodontic practice, many parents have commented that they noticed the average age of children getting braces has decreased. This is true. The timing of treatment has changed. This has to do with the changing role orthodontics has taken in the whole health perspective of the growing child. In the past, orthodontics could be related to a car body-shop mechanic. The crash has happened and the orthodontist would come in to put the car (or teeth) together as best as possible. With the newer technology that I will be writing about later, we have moved from a mechanic to more of a crash detector to warn

and prevent the crash from happening.

Listen, if we can prevent canines from being impacted with early intervention (and we can), then that prevents future surgical interventions. If we can develop arches early, then we can have full eruption of teeth and prevent the extraction of permanent teeth in the future. If we can prevent sleep interrupted breathing and possibly sleep apnea, then we may prevent adverse issues ranging from child snoring to bedwetting, to moodiness and poor school performance. There are just too many benefits to ignore early treatment and prevent certain

“crashes” in the teeth that we know are coming. If you have a child that you have a question of whether or not early treatment may be beneficial, you owe it to them to have a complementary examination. You may find that now is the best time to avoid the oncoming “crash” down the road.

Dr. Thomas Chamberlain

From Dr. Chamberlain’s Desktop

(Photo by Adam Wilkerson)

Donald Mitchell has been promoted to principal at Primavera Online High School after working more than 15 years in education.

Teen helps nonprofit get

BY GABRIELLA J. DEL RIO

A nonprofit organization in Chandler has new flooring, thanks to help from a teen, who found time to assist the group while finishing his last few months in high school.

Travis Wagner of Mesa dedicated his time on June 2 and 3 to redoing the flooring for nonprofit Clothes Cabin for his Eagle Scout Project.

Wagner, 17, just graduated from Mountain View High School in Mesa. While he was completing his last few months in high school, he concentrated on making his project for Troop 653 happen from start to finish. He had to organize volunteers, and partner with RM Interiors and Design in Mesa to get the new flooring he needed.

“We currently have old industrial carpet in our service room and the dust and dirt makes it hard to maintain a bright and welcoming new environment we strive to provide to all who receive assistance through Clothes Cabin,” said Clothes Cabin executive director Amanda Nosbisch. Wagner and 15 volunteers took out the old carpet and replaced it with a new, wood-like laminate tile with the professional guidance of RM Interiors and Design. Wagner’s father is the owner of RM Interiors and Design and had been helping with the project planning and installation since Travis began planning the project in December of last year. The flooring was donated by Shaw, a flooring

flooring as part of Eagle Scout project

manufacturer, and RM Interiors of Mesa. The floor “will be very easy to clean and maintain,” Nosbisch said.

The project took two days to complete. The volunteers began the demo and installation on the evening of June 2, and after a night’s rest, they finished the project the following morning.

“It feels amazing to have someone Travis’ age put so much thought and energy into a project to help others,” Nosbisch said.

Clothes Cabin is a nonprofit organization with a vision that no person within their service area lacks the clothing needed to be employed, to maintain a healthy and hygienic life, and to be socially accepted. Free clothing and household linens are provided to those in need, building lasting relationships with its clients, characterized with love, trust, and respect. Clothes Cabin is open to anyone in the Phoenix area and serves people on a self-declared need for assistance. In addition to the clothing bank, they also have a homeless laundry program, homeless mail service and homeless locker program.

After Wagner’s project is over, he will be off to Central College in Iowa on an academic scholarship.

“We are so thankful for Travis, RM Interiors and Design and all the volunteers for their hard work!”

Nosbisch said on behalf of the Clothes Cabin staff.

(Photo courtesy of Amanda Nosbisch)

(From left) Rick Wagner, co-owner of RM Interiors and Design; Angie Wagner, Rick’s wife and Travis’ mom; Margie Rosenfield, an employee of RM Interiors and Design and Clothes Cabin volunteer; Travis Wagner, Eagle Scout project director; Connor Wagner, Travis’ brother; and Michael Rosenfield, Clothes Cabin volunteer, were involved in the redoing of the flooring for nonprofit Clothes Cabin for Travis’ Eagle Scout project.

Local schools holding back-to-school events

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Students are on summer break, but it’s almost time to start planning the next school year on campuses around Chandler.

Seton Catholic Preparatory is hosting several events to welcome students and parents next month. Classes start on August 9.

A student orientation, parent orientation and meet-the-teacher back-to-school informational event will take place on August 7. Student orientation is from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., the new parent orientation is from 5 to 6 p.m. and meet-the-teacher part of the event is from 6:15 to 8 p.m. New and returning students go to the meet-theteacher night, while new students and their parents typically attend the student and parent orientations. Everyone is welcome at the events, which will take place at the school, 1150 N. Dobson Road in Chandler.

On August 22, Seton will have a new parent dinner for the parents of incoming freshmen from 6 to 9 p.m. at St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church, 3450 W. Ray Road in Chandler.

To learn more about Seton, visit setoncatholic.org.

Bogle Junior High School in the Chandler Unified School District is having Bulldog Day on July 20. Students can tour the campus, open their lunch accounts, buy uniforms and spirit wear and pre-order yearbooks.

The event will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. for seventh-graders and from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for eighth-graders at the school, 1600 W. Queen Creek Road in Chandler.

School starts on July 24.

An open house, where people can meet the teachers and learn about the curriculum and classroom and team protocols

will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. on August 3 at the school.

To learn more about Bogle Junior High, visit cusd80.com/domain/676.

Also in the Chandler Unified School District, Shumway Leadership Academy is having a Back to School Kickoff on July 20. Students and parents can meet teachers, pre-purchase their yearbooks, put money into students’ lunch accounts,

enter to win a Tuft & Needle mattress and listen to teachers’ classroom presentations.

The preschool and kindergarten portion of the event will go from 4:30 to 5 p.m., and activities for all grades will take place from 5:10 to 5:40 p.m. The first-, third- and fifth-grade sessions will take place from 5:50 to 6:20 p.m. Kindergarten, second, fourth and sixth grades’ part of the night is reserved from 6:30 to 7 p.m.

and all students and families are welcome from 7 to 7:30 p.m. A pizza dinner will be served in the cafeteria from 5:10 to 5:40 p.m., from 5:50 to 6:20 p.m. and from 6:30 to 7 p.m.

Every classroom presentation will be repeated three times throughout the evening.

To learn more about Shumway, visit cusd80.com/Domain/3945.

(Photo courtesy of Seton Catholic Preparatory)

(From left) Cooper Moore, Courtney Knecht and Jeffrey Ciferno attend an orientation last year at Seton Catholic Preparatory.

Family finds inspiration for paintings in their bond, to show work together in exhibition

BY COLLEEN SPARKS

Members of a local family who paint elaborate creations say they draw their inspiration from each other, and now the work of the Milan family will be displayed at Jared Platt Studios in Chandler.

A VIP opening for the Milan Family Art Exhibition will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. on July 6 at the studios at 250 S. Arizona Avenue, Suite 5. The general opening for the exhibition will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. on July 7.

The paintings of Queen Creek husband and wife John and Elli Milan and their daughters, Dimitra, 17, Dafni, 16, and Dalia Milan, 13, will be shown in the studio. They have made large and small paintings on canvas and paper using various mediums, including oil, acrylic, paint pens, spray paint and collage. John and Elli also have a son, 12-year-old Dino, who shows artistic talent.

“Our family’s artwork has many similarities,” Elli Milan said in an email. “All the artwork is upbeat, hopeful and lifegiving. It all has some roots in traditional Old Masters techniques combined with a very contemporary look. It sort of has an abstract realism feel to it.

“I would say thematically we all like to

Elli said she and John have shown their work with Dimitra previously at Xanadu Gallery in Scottsdale and at a gallery in Hawaii, but this will be the first time John, Elli and their three daughters have exhibited their work together.

“We are very excited to have the whole family show together in an exhibition, and we hope there are many more shows like this to come,” Milan said. “It is very gratifying to see all the work together on the walls in the same place as a visual of what takes place behind the scenes. We love to see all the hard work, commitment and love that went into these paintings.

“As parents, we are honored to see how our girls work together and support each other,” she said. “This show is a visual of a common passion we all share.”

Summer 2017 SAN TAN FAMILY FUN

paint figurative work with some spiritual undertone,” she added. “The differences are subtle as you get to know the work. Dalia and Dimitra paint very feminine and dreamy, while Dafni and John and I paint more like a power impact statement.”

Elli, 44, said she and John, 48, have been collaborating on their artwork together since 2004 and enjoy being each other’s muses.

“It’s really wonderful to work together and collaborate on our artwork,” she said. “We feel we can paint better together than we can by ourselves. We have a diverse set of skills and have learned how to bring the best out in each other. There is no hierarchy to our collaboration, and we are not competitive.

“It is truly a 50/50 partnership. We are very close and connected and share a common destiny,” Milan said. “I think the art and co-creating is a huge daily focus that

keeps us close. Our spiritual beliefs unite us, and God is really at the center of our relationship, our family and all that we do together.”

She said she and John “come up with the ideas together” for their paintings. Elli starts the paintings and then John finishes them.

“In the middle, we often paint at the same time,” she added.

Elli and John have passed along their artistic talents to their children. They have homeschooled their children for the last four years, and Dimitra finished high school two years ago. Dimitra has been working as a professional artist since that time, traveling to Greece, Hungary and Ukraine for art shows and education.

Dafni also finished high school earlier than most teens, graduating last year, and she has taken classes at Chandler/Gilbert Community College.

John and Elli own Milan Art Institute, an art school designed to help artists build their careers. The school at 24915 S. 220th Street in Queen Creek offers art classes and educational programs for children and adults, along with outreach and engagement in the community and international cultural exchanges for artists.

Dafni in an email said she learned “everything I know about art” from her parents at their art school.

“They have a yearlong program called the mastery program, which is where I have learned the most,” she wrote. “It teaches you how to paint, how to find your style and how to market your

To learn more about the art exhibition and the Milan family, visit

art.”

milanart.gallery/ the-artist-family.

(Photo by Laura Gordillo)

They are not only husband and wife, but John and Elli Milan are also painting partners.

(Photo by Laura Gordillo)

(From left) Dafni, Elli, Dalia (on Beau the horse), John, Dimitra and Dino Milan of Queen Creek bond over art.

(Photo by Elli Milan) John and Elli Milan together painted “Announcement.”

(Photo by Elli Milan)

Dimitra Milan, 17, is a painter whose work will be shown at Jared Platt Studios as part of the Milan Family Art Exhibition. This is one of her paintings, and she has also shown her work in Scottsdale and Hawaii.

(Photo by Elli Milan)

Dafni Milan, 16, painted this piece called “Fearless.” She and her sisters and her parents are showing their work at Jared Platt Studios.

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino offers staycation packages for scorching summer

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

If you’re staying in the scorching heat for the Fourth of July weekend, you can book a staycation at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino in Chandler to cool off with poolside entertainment and other attractions. Through September 4, the hotel and casino is offering exclusive offers for Arizonans looking for a staycation. Rates for hotel rooms start at $69 with no additional fees.

Staycation packages are fun for families of all ages with activities like ping-pong tables and giant games of chess. Among many dining options, guests will be able to enjoy a poolside grill with live reggae music played on steel drums.

On July 4, Café 24/7 will serve a special menu of half-rack of BBQ pork ribs, baked beans, buttered corn on the cob and fresh baked apple pie for

dessert. It will be served from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for $15 per person.

Wild Horse Pass Hotel also has a variety of fine-dining options, including: Shula’s Steak House, Ling and Louie’s, and Café 24/7. There are more options for casual dining as well.

What’s more, enjoy an evening drink at your choice of the four lounges and bars within the hotel.

The hotel and casino is less than

a mile from the Phoenix Premium Outlets, an outdoor outlet mall with over 90 stores featuring savings of up to 25 to 65 percent off, according to the Premium Outlet website. Stores there include Coach, Converse, and Nike, and the mall also has a food court.

To book your reservation at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, visit wingilariver.com.

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino in Chandler offers staycation specials for locals looking to escape the heat and have some fun.

Families can enjoy a dip in the pool and games including giant chess and Ping-Pong at the Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino in Chandler.

ImprovMANIA My Favorite Monster Exhibit

Tumbleweed Tots

Tumbleweed Tots My Favorite Monster Exhibit

Daily through September 10

My Favorite Monster Exhibit , various times. Experience the whimsical side of monsters at the i.d.e.a. Museum. “My Favorite Monster,” through fun art and hands-on activities, looks at the popularity of these imaginative creatures in media and their role in storytelling.

The i.d.e.a. Museum, 150 W. Pepper Place, Mesa. $9 for those 1 and older, free for members and children younger than 1. 480-644-5552, ideamuseum.org.

1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29

ImprovMANIA , 7 p.m. Join ImprovMANIA every Friday and Saturday night for family-friendly comedy shows. ImprovMANIA’s improv comedy shows are fast-paced and made up on the spot based on audience suggestions, like on the show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” Prepare for a night of laughter in downtown Chandler.

ImprovMANIA, 250 S. Arizona Avenue. $10. 480-699-4598, improvmania.net.

2 Diamondbacks Game , 7:10 p.m. Watch the Arizona Diamondbacks take on the Colorado Rockies at Chase Field. Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix. $7 to $180. 602-462-6500, arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com.

3, 5, 7, 10, 11, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 24, 25, 27, 28, 31

Tumbleweed Tots , 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. This indoor play area is designed for children ages 5 and younger to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Road, Chandler. $2 to $3. 480782-2900, chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.

4 July 4th Fireworks Spectacular , 5 to 10:30 p.m. Celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks show at Tumbleweed Park. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and sealed water bottles or purchase items from vendors at the event. The fireworks show begins at approximately 9 p.m. Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S. McQueen

Road, Chandler. $5 parking. 480-7822735, chandleraz.gov.

4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, 27

Summer Splash , 6 to 7:30 p.m. Kids can meet their favorite characters, win prizes, dance and play games during Summer Splash at Tempe Marketplace. The schedule is: “Under the Sea Soiree” on July 6 with Ariel and Moana; “Superhero Sensation” on July 13 with Spider-Man and Iron Man; “Royal Fiesta” on July 20 with Elena of Avalor; and “Frozen Fiesta” on July 27 with Anna and Elsa.

Tempe Marketplace, The District near Barnes & Noble, 2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe. Free. tempemarketplace.com.

6, 13, 20, 27

Lego Club , 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Come meet new friends and have fun building with Legos. Legos are supplied, imagination required. No registration required.

Lego Club is a Vertex program, where Chandler Public Library intersects with STEAM and makerspace.

Downtown Library Copper Room North, 22 S. Delaware Street, Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 22, 29

The Little Mermaid , various times. The Hale Centre Theatre will be transformed into a magical underwater kingdom when “The Little Mermaid” swims into the Gilbert venue.

The Hale Centre Theatre, 50 W. Page Avenue, Gilbert. $20-$30. 480-497-1181, haletheatrearizona.com.

8

League of Legends at the Library , 2 to 4 p.m. Hang out with friends and challenge them in the League of Legends game. All skill levels are welcome to attend. During the event, learn new tips and tricks while making new friends with fellow gamers.

Downtown Library Copper Room North, 22 S. Delaware Street, Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

9 Phoenix Mercury Game , 3 p.m. Watch the Phoenix Mercury take on the New York Liberty at Talking Stick Resort Arena. The All-You-Can-Eat Value Pack ticket includes unlimited hot dogs, nachos, popcorn and soda.

Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix. Tickets start at $27.26. 602-379-2000, talkingstickresortarena.com.

11, 18, 25

Lego Club , 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Come meet new friends and have fun building with Legos. Legos are supplied, imagination required. No registration required. Lego Club is a Vertex program, where Chandler Public Library intersects with STEAM and makerspace.

Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Road, Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

11, 18, 25

STEAM Club , 4 to 5 p.m. Come to the Chandler Library STEAM Club and have fun every Tuesday with science, technology, engineering, art and math. Play games, dig up dinos, weird science, fun crafts, Lego cars and more. Win prizes just for showing up! Ages 6-11. STEAM Club is a VERTEX program, where Chandler Public Library intersects with STEAM and makerspace.

Downtown Library Copper Room, 22 S. Delaware Street, Chandler. Free. 480782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

13

Magician Eric Giliam , 2 to 3 p.m.

Come watch magician Eric Giliam as he performs magic tricks and illusions to astound audience members of all ages. He has performed in cities across the globe, from Las Vegas to London and Rome.

Downtown Library Copper Room, 22 S. Delaware Street, Chandler. Free. 480782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

15

Culinary Presentation , 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Listen to Chef Larry P. Canepa, a certified culinary educator, as he shares a presentation on the cultural importance of food. He analyzes the historical aspects of food and how it has shaped the world. Canepa also explains the importance of working with local farms to bring the freshest food possible to restaurants and grocery stores. There will be samples at the event.

Downtown Library Copper Room, 22 S. Delaware Street, Chandler. Free. 480782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

15, 16

Arizona Get Outdoors Expo , 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Gather the family and head to the Arizona Get Outdoors Expo to explore everything the outdoors offers. There will be a rock climbing wall, live wildlife and archery tag among other activities. For the fishing enthusiasts, there will be a catch-and-release fishing pond. A cornhole tournament will also take place during both days; make sure to register your team in advance. WestWorld, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, $8. 866-977-6849, azgetoutdoors.com.

18

Family Storytime , 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Read books, sing songs and play with puppets at Family Storytime. This week is Family Fort Night so build a fort, select a couple books and read with your family. Materials to build the forts will be provided.

Hamilton Library, 3700 S. Arizona Avenue, Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

23 Diamondbacks Game , 1:10 p.m. Watch the Arizona Diamondbacks take on the Washington Nationals and Bryce Harper at Chase Field.

Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix. $7 to $180. 602-462-6500, arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com.

26

Summer Reading Program Finale , 2 to 4 p.m. Celebrate the end of a summer full of reading by heading to the Sunset Library. Throughout the afternoon, there will be various activities and crafts based on this summer’s theme: “Build a Better World.” Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Road, Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.

30

Phoenix Mercury Game , 3 p.m. Watch the Phoenix Mercury play the San Antonio Stars at Talking Stick Resort Arena. The All-You-Can-Eat Value Pack ticket includes unlimited hot dogs, nachos, popcorn and soda. Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix. Tickets start at $27.26. 602-379-2000, talkingstickresortarena.com.

It’s a month to play your way!

Chandler Parks & Recreation is encouraging you to Get Your Play On at our parks, aquatic and recreation centers for a chance to win weekly family-fun packs. Visit your local City of Chandler Aquatic or Recreation Center to pick up a copy of the official summer PLYlist and log. As you enjoy action, art and adventure activities collect stamps and fun giveaways. The more you play the more chances you have to win.

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the Chandler City Council

Community Commentaries

Support City of Chandler - SRP Agreement for PRC 230kV Project

BY JORDAN MARSH

I commend the City Council of Chandler and our City’s Planning Department for the diligent and effective efforts they employed to find an agreement with Salt River Project on the placement of the Price Road Corridor 230kV power line.

Approval of Resolution 5071 allowed Chandler to enter an agreement with SRP to partially underground the transmission lines. This route best maintains the look and feel of our award-winning Price Road Corridor and best protects the interests of all the citizens of Chandler, including the investments our business and development partners along the corridor have made within our city. Through this agreement, and the unprecedented undergrounding of a 230kV power line in SRP’s territory, the city demonstrates, once again, why Chandler is the heart of America’s Silicon Desert.

The agreement with SRP includes funding the undergrounding of the double circuit 230kV transmission lines, in part through an account made available by SRP to bury lower voltage lines and improve the appearance of various electrical, or water, facilities.

These undergrounded sections will:

• Not increase municipal taxes or increase rates through SRP, as the undergrounding costs will be addressed with existing and future resources designated for aesthetics to projects of this kind.

• Keep the powerful, industrial-size transmission lines away from residences

and allay the concerns of the residents in the area.

• Maintain the look and feel of the award-winning Price Road Corridor for residents, employees of the companies in the corridor and future development.

• Demonstrate the possibility, and effectiveness, of undergrounding power lines in the future due to the presence of existing residences and businesses.

The homeowners behind Support And Value Ellis Residents (SAVER) thank SRP for choosing to remove the Ellis Street route and only provide this agreed upon route in the proposal it gave the Arizona Corporation Commission on June 13.

While this may feel like the end of this adventure for many, the residents off Ellis have a vested interest in the completion of this route. The City of Chandler supported us with Resolutions 5065 and 5071, and we will continue to support the city’s, and now SRP’s, recommendation for placement of the 230kV power lines throughout the process at the Corporation Commission: under the ground, along Price Road. The only above ground sections in the Price Road Corridor area would be near the towering Loop 101/Loop 202 interchange and the last quarter mile to the new substation along Old Price Road. The City of Chandler is making reasonable accommodations to SRP and the city’s preferred route should be accepted by the Arizona Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Committee.

The Line Siting hearing will be held at the Crowne Plaza Phoenix-Chandler Golf Resort (aka Crowne Plaza San Marcos) on July 24. Make your comments heard during the day, or at a public comment time at 6 p.m. Support the agreed-upon route!

Jordan Marsh is a resident of the Vintage Villas HOA.

Vision for downtown bringing new life to city core

BY CHANDLER MAYOR JAY TIBSHRAENY

Last month I delivered my annual State of the Downtown at the annual breakfast of the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership. I think this is one of the most exciting periods of growth for our city core.

What we have always wanted to achieve downtown is a well-balanced place that embraces many uses, from multifamily, offi ce, entertainment and retail to arts and culture. We are well on our way to a true urban environment that is energized 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Having grown up in Chandler, I have seen this area undergo many changes. Most have been good – some not. We’ve overcome many challenges through the years and are now in a period of remarkable rebirth, and it’s very exciting for me to see the transformation.

We are in the midst of a very strong local economy that allows these partnerships to thrive, and we continue to invest as a city. We are in the fi nal design stages for the master plan of Dr. A.J. Chandler Park – a wonderful open space that we feel can be better utilized. We are at the 60 percent design phase for Arizona Avenue from Frye Road south to Pecos Road. Just as the fi rst phase of this project in the heart of downtown has fostered development, we know that will continue as we head south – and we hope to begin those enhancements in January 2018.

We continue to perform infrastructure work near the square, and we will begin the Dakota Street punch-through by the end of the month. We are also making some nice aesthetic modifi cations along the canal south of the San Marcos by adding historical signage and a walking path. I also highlighted some of the new companies that have located or expanded here in the past year. They include the extension of Sibley’s West, and the addition of La Bocca, Modern Margarita, VB Lounge, the Mission Belle Bed and Breakfast, Blue Planet Outdoors, and Puro Cigar Bar. Future projects include West Alley BBQ, Even Stevens Sandwiches, the Hidden House, Faithlife and Execute to Win. We also look forward to the redevelopment of the old ICAN building with Civic Market and Quarthaus, as well as the old NAPA auto parts store on Frye Road that will soon house an exciting new use.

We continue to see great interest on Site 7 at Arizona Avenue and Chandler Boulevard. There is a mixed-use RFP getting ready to close in mid-July –and I am told we have a lot of strong interest to develop this gateway parcel. Overstreet Chandler broke ground in March and this project will be a gamechanger for our downtown. It will add a new level of energy and additional entertainment options for residents. With 77,000 square feet of new restaurants – and the Flix Brewhouse Cinema – it will surely be one of the hottest destinations in the East Valley, if not the state. There is a lot going on here, and getting to this point has not been easy. Redeveloping downtowns is tough. It takes time. It takes vision. And in Chandler, It’s working.

Share your opinion with SanTan Sun News! We want to hear from you!

We know you have an opinion! Share it with the SanTan Sun News. Please limit your Letters to the Editor to 200-300 words, or they may be edited for length. Include your first and last name, community or development name in Southern

Chandler (Cooper Commons, Ocotillo, Sun Groves, etc.) or ZIP code and daytime phone number for verification. 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

News is considered your permission to print your written opinion. Opinions expressed in Community Commentaries, Letters to the Editor or cartoons are those of the author, and not that of the SanTan Sun News.

Have a story idea or news tip? Know of an interesting photo opportunity? How about positive feedback or constructive comments? We’d like to hear from you. Email us at News@SanTanSun.com.

(Photo special to STSN) Jay Tibshraeny

(Photo special to STSN)

Jordan Marsh

Neighbors

“Muppets from Space” is one of the movies people can see this month for $1, $3 or $5, with proceeds going to

and have food delivered to their seats.

Theater offers flexible ticket prices to help Chandler Compadres

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

People can escape the triple-digit heat, take in a family-friendly movie and help nonprofit organization Chandler Compadres all by heading to a local theater.

Alamo Drafthouse Chandler’s Kids Camp screenings offer “Pick Your Price”

tickets through July 27. The theater, which combines movies, food and drinks, is showing “The Iron Giant” through July 6, “Trolls” July 7-13, “Muppets from Space” on July 14 and from July 16-20, and “The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie” July 21-27. The popular films will be shown at 10 a.m.

on those dates. Moviegoers can pay $1, $3 or $5 per ticket, with all proceeds for those screenings benefiting Chandler Compadres, which has been helping East Valley families in need for more than 35 years.

The movie theater provides a full multi-course menu of meals prepared

from scratch for filmgoers and served directly to their theater seats. Alamo also provides cocktails and craft beers. The theater in Chandler is at 4955 South Arizona Avenue. To learn more about Alamo Drafthouse Chandler, visit drafthouse.com/phoenix.

Local company catches the meal-delivery wave with health emphasis

BY JESSICA SURIANO

Achieving healthier eating habits and weight-loss goals just got a lot easier thanks to the pre-made, customized meals from AZ Taste Buds, delivered right to the front door.

The Chandler-based food prep and delivery service relocated from California to Arizona in September of last year, and now provides about 15 to 25 organic meals a week to around 40 regular customers.

“We just wanted to give back to the community, and actually help people get closer to their goals just simply by changing the foods that they’re eating,” Daniel Lindsey, master chef and co-owner, said. “We don’t want people to have to make it a job to eat – we want to make it fun to eat.”

Lindsey said the business is growing by the week. Convenience, dietary restrictions, fresh foods and even preparation for special occasions like weddings or athletic events are some of the most common reasons customers contact AZ Taste Buds.

The company now also services the entire East Valley, West Valley, Mesa, Anthem, Buckeye and Ahwatukee. Lindsey and Bre O’Donnell, head chef and the other co-owner, work with a team of employees who possess years of nutrition experience to match every meal plan to a specific customer’s health goals.

Typical meals are about $5 to $7, including the cost of delivery. They are prepared, cooked and delivered every Sunday from 5 to 9 p.m., and customers

can submit orders every other day Monday through Saturday until 5 p.m. on the website, aztastebuds.com, or by visiting the kitchen at 961 W. Ray Road.

On Mondays and Tuesdays, Lindsey said the business donates free meals to churches and nonprofit organizations. These come from the “Donate a Meal” option available to customers on the website.

The rest of the week, the company is devoted to advertising to the public as well as picking up supplies and meal ingredients for the following week. Lindsey said the ingredients for the food are coming from commercial wholesale suppliers as well as organic farmers’ markets around the Valley.

“We try and stay local,” Lindsey said. “We want to boost up other small businesses as well.”

The protein doughnuts, zucchini lasagna, street tacos and “Stella’s Chili” are some of the company’s most popular menu items.

“We’re blowing through so many doughnuts, you’d think I own a doughnut shop,” Lindsey said.

Lindsey and his team will also offer customers training and fitness tips and break down every meal’s nutritional makeup, such as its carbohydrates, sugars and fats, to fit every individual’s needs.

Although not all food delivery services have the health benefit of AZ Taste Buds, the food-delivery industry could grow to be worth as much as $210 billion eventually, according to research by

Morgan Stanley, a financial services company.

“We are in the early days of a potentially significant shift in access to delivery, as various mobile internetenabled businesses begin to scale and offer unprecedented variety, speed and convenience to the consumer,” John Glass, Morgan Stanley’s U.S. restaurant analyst, said in a July 2016 report.

Thanks to word of mouth about AZ Taste Buds in the East Valley, Lindsey doesn’t see his business slowing down any time soon.

“They just loved us,” Lindsey said. “They literally eat it up.”

(Photo courtesy of Jim Henson Pictures)

Chandler Compadres.

(Photo courtesy of DreamWorks Animation LLC)

People can watch family-friendly movies including “Trolls” and escape the heat at Alamo Drafthouse Chandler.

(Photo courtesy of DreamWorks Animation LLC)

Not only can people watch movies at Alamo Drafthouse Chandler, but they can also order from a full, multi-course menu

(Photo by Kimberly Carrillo)

Partners Bre O’Donnell and Daniel Lindsey aim their business, AZ Taste Buds, at people who want healthy meals delivered to their doorstep.

Chandler photographer wins local prizes page 54

Spiritual Reflections with Rabbi Wiener page 61

Chef, restaurant owner offers tips on barbecues page 69

City reminds residents to follow restrictions on fireworks use, sales for safety

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

With the Fourth of July drawing near, the Chandler Fire, Health & Medical Department would like to remind residents of the proper safety precautions when buying and using fireworks.

The sale of fireworks is legal through July 6. The use of allowed consumer fireworks is legal through July 6 and from December 24 to January 3, under Arizona law, on private property with the property owner’s permission.

The City of Chandler prohibits the use of any “consumer” fireworks on city or public property. That includes public parks, school grounds, city or public-owned buildings and other sites.

Consumer fireworks do not shoot into the air and do not detonate. They must be labeled as consumer fireworks or “1.4 G Fireworks” when being sold. These are to be used on private property only with the permission of the property owner.

Novelty fireworks can be sold and used anywhere. These include snappers, snap caps, party poppers, common sparklers and other items.

Display fireworks are the average fireworks that are present at firework shows.

These are shot into the air and explode. It is illegal for anyone to sell or use display

fireworks without a permit.

Other illegal fireworks are those with

a higher percentage of black powder, including Roman Candles, M-80s, firecrackers and bottle rockets.

Sales of fireworks are permitted in some areas using temporary tents. Failure to properly sell with the proper signage can result in a $1,000 fine.

The misuse of these items can cause personal injury, injury to other people, injuries to pets, property damage and destruction to the environment. People are urged to use them with caution and proper supervision. The city has dry brush, palm trees, wood fences and many other possible sources of combustion. Once a fire begins, it can easily spread into nearby structures. Authorities are also concerned about people buying fireworks locally, and then using them in wildland or forest areas.

Any Chandler residents who see fireworks being used or sold inappropriately are urged to report these violations to the Chandler Police Department’s non-emergency phone number at 480-782-4130.

To learn more about fireworks rules and safety tips, visit the Chandler Fire, Health & Medical Department website at chandleraz.gov/fire.

Longtime tennis player serves clients with a smile in new role as fitness director

BY COLLEEN SPARKS

A longtime tennis player is helping people from all walks of life get into the swing of fitness in her new position at Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa.

Emily Callison, 30, was promoted to fitness director last month after working as a personal trainer and tennis concierge at the upscale health and fitness club on South Alma School Road for a little over two years. She’s been there since the club opened in April 2015.

Having started playing tennis at age 7, Callison became familiar with the Village Health Clubs by playing in state tennis tournaments at the Camelback Village Racquet and Health Club while a student at Red Mountain High School in Mesa. Callison, who worked in previous jobs at other organizations helping cancer survivors and people with diabetes, said she loves the camaraderie and family feel of Ocotillo Village. The club in Chandler has about 1,500 members.

She enjoys helping people of various abilities overcome challenges and build their strength and stamina, as well as shed pounds and boost their confidence.

“We’re about building relationships with the members,” Callison said. “We take pride in knowing the members by their first names. We want them to get a lot of value out of the club. You can play tennis here; you have racquetball, swim team.

“We offer a lot besides just your group classes,” Callison, a northeast Mesa resident, said. “We just want to provide an all-in-one experience for those in the community, just provide a lot of great experiences for them.”

Members of the club have gone on organized trips with Village staff members. The Village chain, with other locations on East Camelback Road in Phoenix, North Thompson Peak Parkway in Scottsdale and on East

Doubletree Ranch Road in Scottsdale, also offers parties and many other social activities throughout the year.

Ocotillo Village held its Indoor Triathlon on June 18 and is going to hold the triathlons again on July 30 and August 20.

During a recent personal training session, Callison and a client, Purvi Kadakia of Chandler, smiled, laughed and chatted comfortably as Callison guided her through strenuous stretches, lunges and hand-held weight exercises.

In her new position, Callison manages nine other personal trainers, helps create new programs and ensures the equipment is working properly.

Kadakia, a mother of two boys, ages 8 and 10, said Callison helped her transition to a healthier lifestyle. She said she wanted to get fit and healthy when she turned 40 late last month.

“She’s so nice, so friendly,” Kadakia said of Callison. “She really works with the issues you have. She makes you feel comfortable. I’ve gotten so far with her. I’ve gotten so much stronger.

“My first class, I was so intimidated; now I look forward to it,” she added. “My husband also comes here and works out.”

Kadakia joked that she is stronger than her husband, Saumil, who also works out at the club. She also exercises on her own and takes yoga classes at the club, and her sons participate in basketball camp there.

Callison said many families come to Ocotillo Village, where they don’t get the “intimidation factor” they might experience at larger fitness centers.

From 2013 to 2014, Callison managed the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program in Hartford, Connecticut, helping cancer

Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa fitness director Emily Callison works with client Purvi Kadakia of Chandler during a personal training session.

survivors reduce fatigue and rebuild posttreatment strength, stamina and confidence.

As a graduate student earning her master’s in exercise science at the University of Nebraska-Omaha, Callison worked with a diabetes management group, helping people in the community exercise and control the symptoms of the disease from 2010-2012. Callison also ran a diabetes management group at a YMCA in Omaha from 2012-2013.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise science, wellness and physical education at the University of North Dakota.

“I enjoy helping people a lot,” Callison said. “I felt like with those populations you

could really see a change in their personality and their health, their attitude. I like running programs, the administrative work that goes behind it. I also enjoy the hands-on, too.”

In her new role, she hopes to add more small-group personal training sessions. Callison said these sessions are more affordable for people than one-on-one training and also give them “that group camaraderie.”

Ocotillo Village personal trainer Josh Roeckner, 23, of Scottsdale, said Callison is open and very easy to get along with.

“She’s always here when you need her to be,” Roeckner said. “She has a lot of experience in a lot of aspects. She’s very hands-on.”

(Photos by Kimberly Carrillo)

Above: Emily Callison was recently promoted to fitness director after working as a personal trainer and tennis concierge at the upscale health and fitness club on South Alma School Road.

Right:

Credit union collects water to help charities in Chandler, East Valley

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS

Homeless residents and families in need will be able to quench their thirst thanks to donations of bottled water made possible by a Landings Credit Union drive.

The credit union, which has a branch in Chandler, held the water drive in May and obtained more than 650 cases of water, or about 15,000 bottles, for charities in Chandler and other areas of the East Valley. AZCEND, formerly known as Chandler Christian Community Center, is one of the organizations obtaining water for the people it serves. The nonprofit aims to alleviate poverty in the community and has a Community Action program, as well as a Family Resource Center, Interfaith Homeless Emergency Lodging Program, and Chandler and Gilbert senior centers.

Another organization receiving the water bottles to help the community includes Tempe Community Action Agency, which offers food and shelter to residents and provides educational programs, stability and advocacy for working poor families. The United Way Food Bank also benefits from the donations.

Landings Credit Union staff members, using a truck donated by real estate company Arizona Investment Link, moved more than 650 cases of water to the local charities on June 14. Last year, Landings Credit Union donated 7,000 bottles of water to area charities.

Landings Credit Union is based in Tempe and serves students, faculty

(Photo courtesy of Landings Credit Union)

Landings Credit Union staff members load a truck donated by Arizona Investment Link with 15,000 water bottles to deliver to local charities.

members and staff members for all schools in Maricopa County, as well as their families, along with more than 400 select employee groups. The asset size is $150 million with more than 14,000 members. The credit union has been providing services to members for more than 60 years, assisting them with all their financial needs. To learn more about Landings Credit Union, visit landingscu.org.

House candidate set to speak at Democratic Club meeting

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Joan Greene, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for U.S. House of Representatives’ Fifth Congressional District, will speak to the Sun Lakes Democratic Club on July 10.

The meeting begins at 7 p.m. in the Sun Lakes Country Club’s Navajo Room, 25601 E. Sun Lakes Boulevard, North.

Greene will discuss her credentials and reasons for pursuing a run for the seat held by Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ, Fifth District).

Club officials will discuss ballot initiatives for the November 2018 election, including the Save Our Schools (SOS) effort and Arizona citizens’ ability to put initiatives on the ballot as granted by the state Constitution. Admission to the meetings are free; however, the club collects nonperishable food items for Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank. Tax-deductible contributions can be taken to the drop-off area in the west parking lot from 6:30 to 7 p.m. The club collected 70 pounds of food in May, along with $60. So far this year, $639.60 in food and $249 in cash have been taken in.

The public is welcome to the meetings, which are held the second Monday of each month. Light refreshments are served. For more information, call Dolly Loftin at 480-200-3322.

DEADLINES FOR SANTAN SUN NEWS: JUNE 17

The deadline for news and advertising is noon Thursday, July 6, for the Saturday, July 15 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.

Gabriela Durig, DVM

Report confirms safety of Chandler’s water

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

The results of Chandler’s annual drinking water quality report confirm the city continues to supply its residents and businesses with drinking water that meets or exceeds all state and federal water quality standards.

Since 1999, water suppliers have been required to provide Consumer Confidence Reports on an annual basis. The report, found online at chandleraz.gov/waterqualityreport, details where Chandler’s water comes from, what it contains and how the city’s water quality compares to regulatory standards.

Chandler supplies more than 55 million gallons of high-quality drinking water per day to residential, business and industrial customers. The city receives its water from the Salt River, Verde River, Central Arizona Project (Colorado River) and city wells.

To ensure tap water is safe to drink, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) prescribes regulations limiting the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. Water samples are taken from Chandler’s numerous wells, reservoirs,

sampling stations and homes, and thousands of tests are performed each year by an expert staff of technicians, specialists, inspectors and chemists.

“A number of employees helping ensure the quality of our water have worked in the city’s Water Quality Division for more than a decade – some nearly 20 years,” said Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. “They have numerous certifications and degrees, including one with a PhD in chemistry. The quality of our water is in great hands.”

Recently, there has been state and nationwide attention regarding lead in drinking water. If present, elevated levels of lead can cause health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children.

The City of Chandler adheres to all lead and copper sampling and reporting requirements prescribed by the EPA and tests show Chandler continues to remain well below the EPA action levels for lead and copper.

Sample results can be found in the water quality report posted online.

Haboobs roll in with Arizona’s monsoon season

BY LEAH MERRALL

Arizona’s monsoon season has arrived, bringing haboobs. These dust storms are a staple of summer weather in the Valley, and they’re more dangerous than their name lets on.

Haboobs (derived from the Arabic word for “strong wind”) are the leading cause of injuries by hazard in Arizona, according to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Technical Memorandum report on dust storms. The report also found haboobs are the third leading cause of death by hazard in the state, behind heat and flooding.

According to Jaret Rogers, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Phoenix, haboobs are typically generated from thunderstorm wind gusts. As a thunderstorm decays, it produces strong wind gusts over open desert that kick up dust, which causes an outflow.

Chandler, Queen Creek and Ahwatukee are especially vulnerable to dust storms, Rogers said, because thunderstorms often develop near Tucson and the open desert between creates a large opportunity for the collection of dust. Those southernmost cities are the first to get hit.

“It’s not always obvious when they’re going to hit, so it can be short notice,” Rogers said. “You may only have 10 or 15 minutes before you can see the wall of dust that’s going to hit you.”

The biggest concern is motorist safety, as dust storms can severely decrease visibility. The National Weather Service advises drivers to pull over as far away from the road as possible during a haboob.

The National Weather Service also issues dust

storm warnings so people have the opportunity to take precautions.

Although monsoon season is officially June 15 through September 30, Rogers said, the most common time for haboobs to hit is late June and early July, in the late afternoon or early evening.

One of the biggest haboobs in recent history took place in Phoenix on July 5, 2011. Ken Waters, the warning coordination meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Phoenix at the time, told EarthSky.org the storm was so big because there had been no rain in parts of Arizona for up to four months.

While there isn’t anything anyone can do to stop the storm from coming, there are measures citizens of the Valley can take to ride it out.

“Pay attention to the dust storm warning in our forecast,” Rogers said. “And just take safety precautions.”

(Photo special to SanTan Sun News)

Arizona’s monsoon season has arrived.

Chandler Horizon Rotary Club gives grants to local nonprofits, programs

BY COLLEEN SPARKS

in need a boost are getting a shot in the arm themselves because of a local club’s popular golf event.

On June 21, the Chandler Horizon Rotary Club gave grants to 23 programs and organizations, many based in the city, at its Celebration Breakfast at the San Marcos Golf Course clubhouse. The money was raised from the Chandler Horizon Rotary Club $100,000 Hole-In-One Shootout held in May. During the eight-day event at San Marcos, participants paid to try to hit golf balls into a hole from 100 yards out. Cash, golf balls, restaurant gift certificates and other prizes were given to about 50 people who made holes in one or scored the best shots of the day.

“It’s a lot of fun,” said Roger Morsch, president of the Chandler Horizon Rotary Club. “We do a lot of work with some of these organizations throughout the year, so you know how needy they are of funds. They’re in the business of trying to take care of everybody.”

The club gave $500 to $2,000 to each organization or program last month.

The following organizations and programs received grants:

• AZCEND (formerly Chandler Christian Community Center), $1,500

• Arizona Burn Foundation, $500

• Camp Soaring Eagle, $500

• Chandler/Gilbert ARC, $500

• Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA, $2,000

• Chandler Police Department/Cadet Program, $500

• Chandler Police Department Victim Services Unit, $1,000

• Chandler Schools/ Destination College $2,000

• Clothes Cabin, $2,000

• Flight 33, $1,000

• Gila River Boys & Girls Club of Sacaton, $500

• Junior Achievement of Arizona, $500

• The Desert Cancer Foundation of Arizona, $1,000

• Pregnancy Care Center of Chandler and Gilbert, $1,000

• HOPE Animal-Assisted Crisis Response, $500

• My Sister’s Place, $2,000

• Rotary/Polio Plus, $1,000

• Rotary/Shelter Box, $1,000

• Rotary/ Vocational Fund of AZ, $1,500

• Si Se Puede Foundation of Chandler, AZ, $500

• The First Tee, $1,500

• The H.E.L.P. Foundation, $1,000

• YMCA I-Learn Program, $500 While many clubs organize golf tournaments, the shootout is something different that appeals to people who ordinarily don’t play golf, Morsch said.

“We get an awful lot of people you could tell they probably don’t touch a club except for this event,” he said. “You’re hitting at 100 yards; that’s not really that far. You could accidentally get there. It’s a lot of fun.”

People can participate in the shootout for $1 per ball and the event is open to anyone ages 18 and older.

The club tries to help small organizations and programs based in Chandler with the grants.

To learn more about the Chandler Horizon Rotary Club, visit chandlerhorizonrotary.org.

(Photo courtesy of Chandler Horizon Rotary Club)

The Chandler Horizon Rotary Club gave grants ranging from $500 to $2,000 to nonprofit organizations and programs in the area at a recent breakfast.

Breastfeeding offers many benefits for babies, mothers

BY ANGELA ZEARING

The benefits of exclusive breastfeeding are numerous.

Breastfed babies receive extra immunity from breast milk that provides protection from common illnesses (ear infections, allergies, common colds). Having a healthier baby means fewer sick days from work and fewer doctors’ office visits.

Breastfeeding saves you valuable time since you don’t have to prepare a formula bottle then subsequently wash, dry and put away those supplies. In addition, there are estimates that breastfeeding saves over $1,700 per year without having to buy formula. Breastfeeding promotes better jaw development and fewer cavities. Breast milk provides natural substances that help both mom and baby relax and fall asleep. Breastfeeding also promotes a special bond between mom and baby and helps mom learn baby’s cues faster. Also, breastfeeding and the hormones it releases help the uterus return to its regular size faster and help mom burn extra calories (about 500 per day!) without restricting diet.

If you are pregnant now, there are things you can do to prepare for breastfeeding success. Initiate skin-toskin contact immediately after birth

for a minimum of one to two hours. This skin-to-skin time allows for better temperature regulation, better and quicker initiation of breastfeeding, plus it releases oxytocin, which aids in bonding, reduces stress and decreases mom’s pain levels. Request a meeting with a lactation consultant in the hospital before discharge if possible to help you feel more confident and answer any questions you may have before going home. Request no bottles, formula or pacifier use in the hospital.

Expect to see one wet diaper per day of life for the first week as good urine

output to indicate good breast milk intake. Around the third day of life, the breast milk matures from colostrum and continues to increase in amount to match your baby’s expanding stomach capacity. Offer the breast with the earliest feeding cues, which include mouthing movements, protruding tongue, rooting, hand to mouth movements and handsucking. Expect to feed every one to three hours throughout the day and night. For the first week, offer both breasts at each feeding. Beyond the first week, encourage the baby to fully drain one breast before offering the other to ensure the baby gets the high-fat, calorie-rich hindmilk. Seek out help from a lactation consultant in the community for any concerns with latch, nipple pain or damage, or any other breastfeeding concerns you may have. For any concerns regarding weight gain or other concerns with the baby, call your pediatrician.

Angela Zearing is a certified pediatric nurse practitioner and lactation consultant with Pendleton Pediatrics. Pendleton Pediatrics is located at 1445 W. Chandler Boulevard, Building B, in Chandler. The practice is centered on excellence, innovation and individualized care, with a focus on preventive well

care and prompt treatment of illness. For more information, call 480-385-5055 or visit pendletonpeds.com.

Angela Zearing is a certified pediatric nurse practitioner and lactation consultant with Pendleton Pediatrics.

(Photos special to SanTan Sun News)

RESTAURANTS

Bahama Bucks

Garcia’s Mexican

Genuine Fresche

Ginger Monkey

Rita’s Burritos

Jack in the Box

Panda Express

Señor Taco

Subway

Zipps Sports Grill

STORES

Beauty Brands

Big 5 Sporting Goods

Dollar Tree

Lowe’s

O’Reilly Auto Parts

PETCO

Ross Dress For Less

Sally Beauty Supply

Staples

Verizon Wireless

SERVICES

Aqua-Tots Swim School

Arizona Eye Institute

BFIT4LIFE Boot Camps

Creative Nails by Susan

Fantastic Sams

Farmers Insurance

Jiffy Lube

Keith Poole’s Training Zone

Light RX Face & Body

Mathnasium

Towne Center 4040 S. Arizona Ave. Chandler, AZ 85248 FultonRanchTowneCenter.com

SW Corner of Arizona Avenue and Ocotillo Road

Parents can model good Fourth of July behavior to children

BY CARRIE HOLMES

Happy July! With temperatures climbing across Arizona, we try our best to stay cool. But with Fourth of July, fireworks and backyard barbecues, staying cool can sometimes mean showcasing adult habits that may not seem inherently dangerous, but when observed by kids, can become so.

Drinking is a very common component of social gatherings. For cookouts on national holidays, like Memorial Day or Labor Day, or even just celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and other events, often drinking plays a central role. Independence Day is no exception. In fact, it is the top beerdrinking holiday in the U.S., according to Market Research and WalletHub. And when you’re spending your entire day relaxing and having a good time with friends, you may not realize exactly how much you’re consuming.

Besides the fact that adults should always drink responsibly, it’s important to realize that parents’ behaviors can quickly become learned behaviors by their kids, particularly when it comes to alcohol, according to the National Council of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence. As you might expect, drinking alcohol is a completely learned behavior; kids learn to drink by imitating what they see. If a child or teen sees their parent constantly drinking at social gatherings, they may begin to think consistent drinking at these sorts of events is okay. And teens may even begin

to partake in it themselves, and at an early age.

The summer is more dangerous when it comes to teen drinking overall; more teens will have their first drink of alcohol on a summer day compared to a day during the school year, according to a survey from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. And on holidays when drinking is more prevalent, this risk only increases.

Besides seeing an increase in teen drinking and teaching unwanted behaviors, the Fourth of July is one of

the deadliest days of the year for drivers. Parents can show kids that drinking and driving is wrong by not drinking and driving themselves.

Remember that children look to their parents as role models. Although parents may tell their kids “Do as I say, not as I do,” kids will still learn from their parents’ behaviors. So this Fourth of July, whether you’re hosting the local neighborhood cookout, heading to the pool with friends, or making your way to Higley High School to see Gilbert’s fireworks display up close, showcase

responsible drinking habits, and remember not to drink and drive.

Carrie Holmes is the program coordinator of the school- and community-based Counseling Services program at Southwest Behavioral & Health Services. This program provides counseling services to students and families within the Chandler Unified School District. Holmes has a master’s degree in social work and has been working with children and families for more than 10 years.

Carrie Holmes is the program coordinator of the school and community-based counseling services program at Southwest Behavioral & Health Services. (Photos special to SanTan Sun News)

Neighbors

NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKS

Call ahead to confirm information, as details occasionally change after they’ve been published. If you have a recurring monthly meeting you would like to see listed in Neighborhood Networks, email complete details to News@SanTanSun.com. Note: SanTan Sun News has a Spiritual Connections column in the Spirituality section for ongoing religion-related events.

About Care

Monthly volunteer training, by individual appointment

A nonprofit serving homebound Chandler and Gilbert residents; provides transportation, shopping and errands, friendly visits, reassurance phone calls, and minor home repairs.

Info: 480-802-2331, aboutcare.org

Absolute Business Builders: Business Networking International

8 to 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays

Chompie’s

3841 W. Frye Road, Chandler Info: Nikki Janulewicz, 480-570-1835, Nikki@azbestmove.com

Action Networkers: Business Networking International

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays Chompie’s

3841 W. Frye Road, Chandler Info: Marty Recht, 602-315-2056, Marty@AZMarty.com

Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter, Chandler 5:30 p.m. second Thursday of the month Support group for caregivers of people with dementia. Free and no preregistration required.

Chandler Regional Medical Center, Mor-

rison Building, Learning Resource Room 1875 W. Frye Road, Chandler Info: Mindy, 602-528-0545, ext. 201

American Legion James O. Schroeder Post 55

7 p.m. third Tuesday of the month Sun Lakes Country Club, Navajo Room 25601 N. Sun Lakes Boulevard, Sun Lakes Info: Commander Byron Weston, 480-802-6623

Arizona Special Education Network, Chandler area

Provides disability-related education, advocacy and resources to help parents navigate the complex special education system. Info: 602-531-0230

Breast Cancer Support Group

2 to 4 p.m. second Monday of each month Free, no preregistration required

Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers 685 S. Dobson Road, Chandler Info: Kelly, 480-340-4013, ironwoodcrc.com

Build Your Own Business: Chandler

8 a.m. first and third Thursday of each month East Valley networking and referral organization, meets in Ahwatukee at a private location; address will be provided upon

contact.

Info: Lisa, lisa@lisamatusak.com, facebook.com/BYOBAZ

Cancer Caregiver Support Group-Chandler

10 a.m. to 12 p.m. third Saturday of each month

Support group for caregivers of people with cancer. Free and no preregistration required. Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers

685 S. Dobson Road, Chandler Info: Kelly, 480-340-4013, ironwoodcrc.com

Caregiver Support Group 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. third Saturday of each month

Ironwood Cancer & Research Center

685 S. Dobson Road, Chandler Info: Kelly Huey, 480-340-4013, ironwoodcrc.com

Chair Yoga Class-Chandler 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays Free, no preregistration required Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers

685 S. Dobson Road, Chandler Info: Kelly, 480-340-4013, ironwoodcrc.com

Chandler Airport Commission

7 p.m. second Wednesday of each month

The commission makes recommendations to the Chandler City Council regarding airport operations, physical growth, economic development and proposed land use.

Chandler Municipal Airport terminal

2380 S. Stinson Way, Chandler Info: 480-782-3540

Chandler Business Alliance 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. Thursdays

Professional business coalition dedicated to the economic and social development of its members and the Chandler community as a whole.

BLD

1920 W. Germann Road, Chandler Info: chandleralliance@gmail.com, chandleralliance.com

Chandler Chamber Business Golf

7 a.m. tee time, first and third Wednesdays of each month

Includes nine holes of golf, continental breakfast and networking opportunities. Preregistration required online. Golf venue varies. Info: chandlerchamber.com

Chandler Farmers’ Market 3 to 7 p.m. Thursdays

Weekly market with more than 30 vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, gourmet food and handmade crafts. Free admission.

Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, on the east side of Arizona Avenue, Chandler Info: 480-855-3539, downtownchandler.org

Chandler Lions Club 6:30 p.m. first and third Tuesdays of each month

Area residents are invited to come join like-minded volunteers and make new friends.

Atria Chandler Villas, Community Room 101 S. Yucca Street, Chandler Info: RuthJon Wick, 480-895-3569, az1ruthjon@q.com

Wheelchair-bound Chandler photographer wins local prizes

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Greg Wickenburg was an active teenager in Seattle, playing Little League baseball and riding on his skateboard and BMX bike.

His whole life changed when he was 17. An automobile accident left him a C5 quadriplegic, paralyzed from the shoulders down. He is unable to use his hands, fingers, waist and legs. He does have partial arm movement.

Now living in Chandler, Wickenburg is proof that with the right intent, anything can happen. He won several prizes in the sixth annual Environmental Education Center Annual Nature Photo Contest . His photograph “The ConDuktor” won first place in the Creature Worth Noticing category, People’s Choice Award and Conrad Schuknecht Award (Best Story). “Roadrunner” took home the prize for This Beautiful City. “Duckwings” garnered third prize for Creature Worth Noticing.

“It was quite unexpected,” Wickenburg said. “I think I won because everyone likes ducks and roadrunners, and I think they just happened to be really good photos.”

Wickenburg began pursuing photography in December. He initially tried to take up the hobby in the 1990s, but with his disability, it was difficult to use cameras with film.

“It was so expensive to develop them,” he said. “Plus, I couldn’t operate the cameras well. Recently, though, I found great camera holders and the digital cameras with touchscreens and backscreens that can rotate. I can then use my little computer stylus to change settings. That made it a lot easier. I put the shutter cable in my mouth.”

Wickenburg specializes in doubleexposure photos, although his winning artworks were more conventional compositions. He has received no formal training. Double exposure, or multiple exposure, is a technique that combines two different images into one. He blends a person or animal with

Arizona landscape.

Art One Gallery, 4130 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale, has been showing and selling his art, as has the website Fine Art America.

“We didn’t even know about him being in a wheelchair at first,” said Kraig Foote, owner of Art One Gallery. “We saw his work and thought it was amazing. The fact that it was double exposure was incredible.

“Then, on top of being talented, we found out he’s a cool guy.”

Wickenburg would like to pursue a career in photography. To do so, he needs to upgrade his van, which he describes as no longer reliable. He is continuing a GoFundMe account to raise money for a newer used wheelchairaccessible van, which would start at around $25,000. The fund can be accessed here: gofundme.com/qe6wk5jg.

New ones that meet his needs start at $65,000. Soon he has an appointment with vocational rehabilitation to see if it will lend a hand because the request

is work related.

“They won’t buy a van, convert it and put driving equipment in it,” he said. “I would need a new van. If they do it, I would need about $40,000, but then I could get a van I could drive, which would be really cool.”

He won’t find out until mid-July.

In the meantime, he is cherishing his awards as well as a potential career in photography.

“I would love to have people bring their pets over and I could take photos of their pets for them,” he said. “Even though a lot of people really like the photos, I think people would enjoy them more if their animals or family were in them. I have very little stamina, so working full time is difficult. I would love to do this, though.”

Where to find Greg Wickenburg’s art: fineartamerica.com/profiles/gregwickenburg/shop artonegalleryinc.com/artists/greg-wickenburg/pieces facebook.com/greg.wickenburg

Students to channel divas, villains and jesters in opera workshop performance

BY COLLEEN SPARKS

The drama and laughter of stories told through song will come to life on stage at a free performance on July 20 in Chandler.

“A Concert of Divas, Villains & Jesters,” the Summer Opera Workshop

known operas including “The Marriage of Figaro,” “The Magic Flute,” “La Bohème” and “The Merry Widow.”

“ We’re very excited about the talent, and there’s a great positive attitude with this group. ”

– Jennifer Nagy

performance, will take place at 7 p.m. at Pecos Performing Arts Center at Chandler-Gilbert Community College, 2626 East Pecos Road. In the performance, 16 singers ranging in age from 18 to 69 who took the summer opera workshop at the college will perform arias and scenes from well-

It’s the first time Chandler-Gilbert Community College has offered the eight-week Summer Opera Workshop, said Jennifer Nagy, adjunct music instructor at the college. She co-taught the workshop with Dr. Jeffrey Stevens, another adjunct music instructor at the school.

“We were really excited to get it going and we’re hoping to offer it

(Special to the SanTan Sun News)

One of Greg Wickenburg’s joys in life comes from Roo, a rescue dog he trained to be his service dog, and his camera.

Greg Wickenburg’s “Roadrunner” took home the prize for This Beautiful City.

“Duckwings” garnered Greg Wickenburg third prize for Creature Worth Noticing. He won several prizes in the sixth annual Environmental Education Center Annual Nature Photo Contest.

(Photos by Greg Wickenburg)

“The ConDuktor” won first place in the Creature Worth Noticing category of the sixth annual Environmental Education Center Annual Nature Photo Contest.

(Photo by John Jackson)

Jennifer Nagy and Dr. Jeffrey Stevens co-taught the Summer Opera Workshop, where they trained students to sing dramatic and comedic pieces.

again,” Nagy said. “The range (of opera) is very wide; it’s demanding physically on the voice. You’re training singers to sing with strong resonance. That’s a technique you have to learn.”

She and Stevens assigned scenes or duets to the students to perform. The program includes early historical arias and some contemporary songs from American composers.

“Dr. Stevens and I like to present a very audience-friendly and interactive type of program,” Nagy said. “It will also be educational, in addition to being entertaining. We like audience participation.” That includes hearing people in their seats shout “Bravo!”

The audience can expect to see props and hear dramatic, comedic and romantic pieces sung by bass and soprano singers and those with midrange voices. Some of the students aspire to perform or teach music professionally while others sing as a hobby, Nagy said. She has performed with the Arizona Opera and Phoenix Opera.

“We’re very excited about the talent and there’s a great positive attitude with this group,” she said. “They’re eager to learn and have shown some improvement for sure. We’re trying to build more audience and a wider variety of people to come.

“We’re hoping this attracts all ages and is something to do in the summer when there’s not much going on.”

To learn more about the opera workshop concert, cgc.maricopa.edu.

WEAR

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PALETA AT PALETAS BETTY

DESSERT OR CAPPUCCINO AT LA STALLA

GET SOMETHING FROM THE PASTRY CASE AT DOWNTOWN CHANDLER CAFE

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VISIT THE BIRDS AT THE PERCH FISH AND CHIPS AT MURPHY’S LAW IRISH PUB LUNCH AT WIMPY’S PARADISE

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ICE CREAM AT ICE CREAM SAMMIES

TAKE A PHOTO NEXT TO THE AIRSTREAM TRAILER AT BLUE PLANET OUTDOORS REVOLVING SUSHI PLATE AT EASTWIND SUSHI

BREAKFAST PIZZA AT SANTAN BREWING CO. *SERVED FRI-SUN 8-10:45 AM

SOMETHING FROM THE SUMMER MENU AT PEIXOTO COFFEE

A MEAL AT SERRANOS

(Photos by Jennifer Nagy)

Students warm up their voices during a rehearsal at the Summer Opera Workshop at Chandler-Gilbert Community College.

(From left) Drew Crowder, Taryn Cantrell, Jenny Madruga, Logan Ferguson, and Itzel Lucero rehearse a scene from “The Magic Flute” for the upcoming “A Concert of Divas, Villains & Jesters.”

Deborah DeSimone, Robert Altizer, and Sheila Greninger rehearse a song for the Chandler-Gilbert Community College Summer Opera Workshop performance, which is coming up July 20.

Chandler High grad trying to conquer dance world

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Dominic LaRovere was pursuing his second-degree black belt in Chandler when he heard music coming from a dance studio next to his dojo.

Little did he know, it would change his life.

“They were playing music super-loud,” said LaRovere, an 18-year-old Chandler High School graduate. “I couldn’t stand still. I told my mom that I wanted to join dance and quit tae kwon do. The next day, she enrolled me in a breaking class.”

LaRovere is now a member of the revered, Gilbert-based Outlawz dance troupe, which appeared on the TV show “America’s Got Talent.” In August, Outlawz will compete against the best street dancers and dance crews from 50 countries during the USA and World Hip Hop Dance Championships held in the Valley August 4-12. The World Hip Hop Dance Championship finals start at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, August 12, at GCU Arena. All USA Championship events (August 4-6), World Preliminary Championship events and World Battles (August 7-11) will be held at the Arizona Grand Resort and Spa.

The competitions are the flagship events developed and organized by Hip Hop International and its founders, Howard and Karen Schwartz. They also created the Emmy Award-winning TV series “America’s Best Dance Crew.”

“We’ve been practicing a lot for this,” LaRovere said. “HHI is a lot different than ‘America’s Got Talent.’ It’s more like the

Olympics of dance. It’s really vigorous and we’re working really hard.”

Outlawz are the 2016 USA Hip Hop Dance Champions and World bronze medalists, adult division. If Outlawz win the worlds, it’ll be the first U.S. troupe to do so in HHI’s history. In the group, La Rovere is joined by Max Thompson of Mesa, Phoenix Banuelos of Gilbert, Marcus Pope of Peoria, Tam Rapp of Los Angeles and Josh Ulep and A.J. Pak, both of Hawaii. The guys met through the local dance scene.

“We would all battle and see each other at different events in Arizona,” LaRovere said. “We have been training together since. This is all we know how to do at this point.”

As a group, Outlawz traveled to China to promote the HHI brand and dance on the Great Wall of China.

“After we won the championship, they hired us to go to HHI China, to help start the organization in China,” LaRovere said. “They were really generous. We toured China and they took us to the Great Wall.

We were walking on our hands and stuff. China was absolutely insane. None of us will ever forget that.”

The HHI championships have earned the respect of dancers and choreographers worldwide. Many competitors discovered by Hip Hop International have launched careers working with the likes of Justin Bieber, Jennifer Lopez and Rhianna. Hiphop dance is represented routinely in countless awards shows and can be seen promoting respected brands including the Grammys, Emmys, Oscars, NBA, NFL and Cirque Du Soleil, among many others.

“In today’s world, where travel bans and proposed walls to separate peoples are prompting concern, the longstanding mission of Hip Hop International to unite the world of hip-hop through dance is more relevant than ever,” Howard Schwartz said in a press release.

Besides dancing, LaRovere and Thompson are making films and producing music. Right now, though, the focus is on the championships.

“We’re doing a piece that’s on steroids, compared to last year’s,” he said. “It’s going to be insane. We’re not going to hold back at all. This is the world championship that we’re going after. No American crew has won the championship. We want to do it for us, for our country and everyone who can’t.”

All events are open to the public. Tickets for the family-friendly events start at $20. Complete event schedules, ticket information, championship videos and more can be found at hiphopinternational.com.

(Special to SanTan Sun News)

Dominic LaRovere, an 18-year-old Chandler High School graduate, is a member of the revered Gilbert-based Outlawz dance troupe, which appeared on the TV show “America’s Got Talent.”

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Chandler youths to star in ‘Tarzan the Stage Musical’

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Two Chandler youths are going to hit the stage playing the classic role of Tarzan in an upcoming show.

Ava Wright, 10, will play young Tarzan while Connor Brigola, 17, will play the grown-up version of the character in “Tarzan the Stage Musical,” based on the Disney film, at Limelight Performing Arts & Youth Theatre in Gilbert. Though the Tarzan character is a boy, the directors loved Ava for the role because of her attitude, vocal ability, acting talents and general appearance.

Cast members for the show range in age from 7 to 19 for the performance. Limelight was created to offer meaningful and artistic experiences to help youths build confidence and character and give students the foundation to pursue

careers in the performing arts.

“Tarzan the Stage Musical” will feature the music of Phil Collins. The show’s artistic director has choreographed African tribal-type dances performed to many drum beats. The set is being made of chicken wire and papier-mache, with ropes and a zip line so the actors can do flips and tricks on simulated vines. The costumes will give the illusion of fur but will allow the young actors to move freely.

The musical will be performed August 11-12 and August 18-19 at Studio 3-Limelight Youth Theater at 511 W. Guadalupe Road, Suite 9, in Gilbert.

Limelight produces five to eight main shows every season. To learn more about the theater, visit limelightyouththeater.org.

(Photo by Jenn Sutton)

Connor Brigola

(Photo by Erika Wright) Ava Wright

ON STAGE

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, through Sunday, July 2, ABT

In this classic tale, Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, encounters the Beast, who is actually a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved back, the curse will end and he will turn back into his former self. Otherwise, he and his home will be doomed. In this “tale as old as time,” colorful characters including a tightly-wound talking clock (the butler), a cute tea cup (a young boy) and a warm candelabra (maître d’) are also trapped in a spellbound form in the story.

Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers, Thursday, July 6, CT. The three-time Grammy winner brings his latest band on stage to perform hits like “The Way It Is” and “Mandolin Rain,” in addition to songs from his new album “Rehab Reunion,” which is piano-free but features Hornsby playing the dulcimer.

Tony Bennett, Tuesday, July 11, CT. The lauded Italian-American singer performs pop standards, jazz, swing and showtunes, which may include his hit singles “Because of You,” “Cold, Cold Heart,” “Rags to Riches” and “Stranger in Paradise.” His daughter, singer Antonia Bennett, is special guest.

Jonny Lang, Friday July 21, CCA. He has shared the stage with The Rolling Stones, B.B. King, Aerosmith, Sting and Buddy Guy, with whom he continues to tour.

Dwight Yoakam, Friday, July 28, CT. The country music star brings his tour in support of his latest album, “Swimmin’ Pools, Movie Stars,” to the Valley.

Motown Comedy Blast Tour, Saturday, July 29, MAC. This evening of comedy is hosted by Brian Perry and features Red Bone, Richard Pryor Jr., Swayde Wilson, Rodney Hood, Jill Kimmel, MZ Tru Jones and Karl A. Youngman.

Santa Pachita with Funky Bonz, Friday, August 4, CCA. This nine-piece band blends a variety of musical instruments – congas, flute, and trumpet – adding depth to energetic music influenced by ska, cumbia and rumba-salsa, and bands like Manu Chao.

Robby Roberson Band, Sunday, August 13, CCA. Original musical stories steeped in reality and imagination, happiness and sorrow – delivered through the musical strings of multiple instruments, played skillfully and passionately.

Niki J. Crawford, Sunday, August 20, CCA. This new band brings the heat with a highenergy funk and soul party. Crawford and the band have shared the stage with Carlos Santana, Snoop Dogg, Al Green, Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, Aaron Neville, Macy Gray, Booker T. Jones, The Roots, Keb’ Mo’, Galactic and Orgone.

Jessica Fichot Band, Friday, August 25, CCA. The Los Angeles-based chanteuse/ songwriter from Paris draws from her multiethnic upbringing. Her music fuses styles and languages, taking listeners on a journey through gypsy jazz, Chinese 1940s swing, international folk, and into the wilderness of her imagination.

Yestival featuring Yes, Todd Rundgren and Carl Palmer, Friday, August 25, CT. Radio giants from 1970s and 1980s FM, Yes will perform from its catalog of progressive rock hits, including “I’ve Seen All Good People: Your Move” and “Owner of a Lonely Heart.” Musician and producer Todd Rundgren and Carl Palmer of Emerson, Lake & Palmer will also perform.

Color Me Badd, Friday, September 8, WHP. Bryan Abrams and Mark Calderon, original members of early 1990s R&B sensations Color Me Badd, join forces with young singer Adam Emil to bring the group’s hits to the stage, including “I Wanna Sex You Up,” “I Adore Mi Amor” and “All 4 Love.”

Sure Fire Soul Ensemble, Saturday, September 9, CCA. A “heavy cinematic soul” band from San Diego, for fans of the organ, gritty funk and original soundtracks.

studio magic of the one and only recording session that brought together music legends Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley.

Meet Me in St. Louis, Thursday, October 12 through Saturday, November 25, HCT. A

Kiss and Tell, Tuesday, September 12 through Tuesday, November 14, HCT. Hugh Herbert’s 1940s romp entangles a family feud, a secret marriage, and a madcap dose of mistaken identity. Two teenage girls, Corliss Archer and Mildred Pringle, cause their respective parents much concern when they start to become interested in boys. The parents’ bickering about which girl is the worse influence causes more problems than it solves after both girls sell kisses for charity at the USO baza

George Benson and Kenny G, Friday, September 15, MAC. Having sold over 125 million albums worldwide, earned 11 Grammy Awards, recorded 15 No. 1 albums and 10 No. 1 singles, the pair will perform songs from their career-defining albums plus greatest hits.

The Beach Boys, Sunday, September 17, MAC. One of America’s greatest rock bands, with songs including “Good Vibrations,” “Fun Fun Fun,” “Help Me Rhonda” and “Surfin USA,” The Beach Boys are led by Mike Love and Bruce Johnston along with Jeffrey Foskett, Brian Eichenburger, Tim Bonhomme, John Cowsill and Scott Totten.

The Magic of Bill Blagg Live, Friday, September 22, MAC. Magician and illusionist Bill Blagg has been called “Houdini times 10” by NBC. His 90-minute show includes levitations, vanishing acts, escapes and more.

Father John Misty, Wednesday, Oct. 4, OT. Multi-instrumentalist Josh Tillman, once the drummer for alternative folk band Fleet Foxes, will perform songs from his latest solo album, “Pure Comedy.”

Million Dollar Quartet: The Musical, Sunday, October 8, WHP. This musical portrays the

musical journey back to the brink of the 1904 World’s Fair chronicles the life of a happy family made up of Mr. and Mrs. Smith, their four daughters and one son. With the addition of romantic suitors, comedic misunderstandings and jovial pranks, this musical is filled with nonstop entertainment featuring memorable musical numbers such as “The Boy Next Door,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “A Day In New York.”

Flamenco Legends, Thursday, November 2, MAC. Javier Limón, longtime collaborator of Paco De Lucía, reassembles the original band that toured with the legendary flamenco guitarist in the last years of his career.

Yo-Yo Ma, Friday, November 10, OT. The world-renowned cellist and former child prodigy will play classical tunes, including selections from his newest album, “Bach Trios with Chris Thile & Edgar Meyer.”

Righteous Brothers, Saturday, November 25, MAC. With a string of No. 1 classics, including the most played song in radio history, “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame duo of Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield topped the charts in four decades. Bucky Heard has replaced the late Hatfield.

Ronnie Lee Milsap, Sunday, December 10, WHP. An American country music singer and pianist, he was one of country music’s most popular and influential performers of the 1970s and 1980s. He became country music’s first successful blind singer, and one of the most accomplished and versatile country crossover singers of his time, appealing to both country and pop music markets with hit songs that incorporated

and rock ‘n’ roll elements.

ON STAGE VENUE INDEX

ABT–Arizona Broadway Theatre 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria Tickets: 623-776-8400, azbroadway.org

CT–Celebrity Theatre

440 N. 32nd St., Phoenix Tickets: 602-267-1600, celebritytheatre.com

CCA–Chandler Center for the Arts 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler Tickets: 480-782-2680, chandlercenter.org

HCPA–Higley Center for the Performing Arts 4132 E. Pecos Rd., Gilbert Tickets: 480-279-7194, higleycenter.org

HCT–Hale Centre Theatre 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert Tickets: 480-497-1181, haletheatrearisona.com

MAC–Mesa Arts Center One E. Main St., Mesa Tickets: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter.com

OT–Orpheum Theatre

203 W. Adams St., Phoenix Tickets: 602-262-6255, phoenixconventioncenter.com/ orpheum-theatre

SCPA–Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts

7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale Tickets: 480-499-8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org

WHP–Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino

5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler Tickets: 800-946-4452, wingilariver.com/wild-horse-pass

pop, R&B,

Tedeschi Trucks Band, Tuesday and Wednesday, November 14 and 15, OT. Led by husband-and-wife duo Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi, this Grammy-winning band plays bluesy, gritty rock ‘n’ roll full of soul.

(Photo courtesy of Chandler Center for the Arts)

Jonny Lang will perform July 21 at Chandler Center for the Arts.

(Photo courtesy of Chandler Center for the Arts)

Niki J. Crawford will take the stage August 20 at Chandler Center for the Arts.

(Photo courtesy of Chandler Center for the Arts)

Santa Pachita with Funky Bonz will perform August 4 at Chandler Center for the Arts.

There is light in darkness

BY RABBI IRWIN WIENER, D.D.

Most of us, when we think of darkness, cannot understand that there is light in darkness. We tend to concentrate on the concept and perception that darkness leaves us blind to the world around us.

Perhaps we could relate better if we were actually blind. People who have lost their sight find the light of day in the emptiness of space – a never-ending journey in the quest for the brightness of life.

Such thoughts ran through my mind as I read the following written by an 11-year-old girl and read at her graduation from elementary school to the entire graduating class and visitors:

“The darkness is the warm comfort of silence.

It is the beautiful color that puts every child to sleep.

It is not death, but life.

It is the time of rest and relaxation. Darkness is the kiss I receive meaning goodnight.

It is the covers pulled over my head as I think of sleep.

It is the comfort of the pillow resting below my head.

Darkness is my eyes slowly closing.

Spiritual Reflections

It makes the darkness of the day form into the light of the night.

It is the lights turning off meaning sleep and rest.

Happiness swims into dreams.

It is waking up from a nightmare and sneaking into my parents’ room to sleep once more.

It is the dreams that form that will soon be fading from my memory.

It is the relief of ending and forming of a new day, and a new opportunity.”

- Maddie Scharf

I read and re-read these words and understood the value of dreams and the marvel of light emanating from darkness – the darkness of our minds as they wander from fantasy to reality.

How many of us dream, wake up and cannot remember the dream? How many of us have dreams of a better life and a better tomorrow? How many of us find our lives shattered because our dreams are not realized? How many of us truly understand that the darkness surrounding us represents the gloom that seems to overpower us?

All of life is about dreams. We dream of what could have been, what

might have been, what should have been. Perhaps these lead us into a darkness that never seems to fade. The truth is that dreams change with time, but still we continue to dream because, life as we know it, is filled with all sorts of dreams.

This young girl can teach us a very valuable lesson: Darkness may engulf us, but then we reach for the comfort of those whom we love and who love us. The young among us are filled with so many dreams, but they all concentrate on living, and growing, and feeling secure. Are these not the dreams of all ages, not just the young?

We may find darkness when our eyes close, but when morning arrives, the light of a new day enhances our belief that light leads us into the true meaning of life, the purpose for which we were created, and the value we bring to those around us.

This 11-year-old is my granddaughter. She has taught me a valuable lesson about happiness and sweetness. Her innocence is a testament to the lessons we can all learn from a child reaching for light at the end of the darkness of life. She has taught me, and possibly you as

well, that dreams can and do become reality because of perseverance and the will to live.

And even when we are gone, the dreams do not disappear – they just become memories. So, as we learn from an 11-year-old – dream on!

Church provides healing, fun Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation offers Twilight Service

Sun Lakes United Methodist Church is offering many activities to help people grow and have fun this month.

All are welcome to join us at our July 2 worship service at 9 a.m. in the sanctuary featuring Red Mountain Brass. Then cool off by joining us for a free community event at 6 p.m. in our fellowship hall with a bowl of ice cream and a patriotic singalong led by our music director, Cris Evans. Sun Lakes UMC is located at 9248 E. Riggs Road (west of the Robson Library). If you plan to attend the sing along, please RSVP to the church office by calling 480-895-8766.

Tuesday nights offer support, fun Join us in July for a series of free summer programs, Tuesday Nights Together, on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. in Lindsay Hall at the church. The programs last an hour or so; no reservations are required. Mark your calendars for the July lineup. There won’t be an event on the Fourth of July. Here are the other July events:

• July 11 – Sun Lakes UMC Counseling Program: One Year Later – There are thousands of veterans in our community and throughout the Phoenix valley. Our TNT tonight will focus on counseling that is available for veterans and their families. A panel presentation facilitated by Dr. Julian Pickens and Deb Ralston will explore common issues and concerns, barriers to services, and opportunities and resources including Sun Lakes UMC Counseling Services.

• July 18 – “In Our Own Voice”: National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Do you have a family member, friend, co-

worker, or acquaintance living with mental illness? Then join us for NAMI’s presentation of “In Our Own Voice” by Terry McDermott, Peer Program Coordinator for NAMI. Joining him with be two speakers who will walk you through their journey to recovery; leading successful lives despite their illness.

• July 25 – An Evening of Fun and Music –Rev. Jim and Martha Wood and friends present music from childhood days, including American folk songs, songs from other lands, sing-alongs, 1940s nonsensical songs, and a special hymn. The remaining lineup of our Tuesday Nights Together series, to be held in August, will be published in future issues of SPLASH. If you have any questions about the series, please contact Bev Tarpley, SLUMC Education Committee Chairperson, via the church office at 480-895-8766. Fall prevention class coming to church Allison Scharr, RMA, and Care Coordinator for Legacy Home Care, will give a presentation at Sun Lakes United Methodist Church July 6 at 10 a.m. on how to prevent falls in the home. She will cover what to do if you fall and how to make your home “fall” safe. Jamie Flesher, RN, Certified Geriatric Care Manager, CEO of Legacy Home Care, LLC, and Co-Chair for the East Valley Committee on Aging, will hold a question and answer session.

This free class is open to the community. Please RSVP to Maureen at 480-895-8766. Sun Lakes United Methodist Church is at 9248 E. Riggs Road in Sun Lakes.

Content provided by Sun Lakes United Methodist Church.

BY ALLAN LEVY

Despite the intensely hot weather, the Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation (SLJC) is still offering services. In July and August, a rabbinic-led Twilight Service is held in the Sun Lakes Chapel at 5:30 pm.

The Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation (SLJC) is an established r eform congregation that meets at the Sun Lakes Chapel on the second Friday of the month from September through June.

Services are a great opportunity to meet new people, connect with Judaism and learn. New attendees are invited to be introduced at the service and members of the congregation connect with these attendees. Oneg Shabbats are held immediately after our services at Sun Lakes Country Club from September through June. Everyone is invited to attend. The services and Oneg’s are a great place to meet members, ask questions and learn more about our congregation.

SLJC is an active congregation with members of all ages that come from various communities across the world. Tradition and prayer are woven into our services by Rabbi Wiener. Our Cantor, Ronda Polesky’s beautiful voice makes the services beautiful to listen to and our choir under the direction of Lana Oyer makes our services memorable. Join us on the dates below to partake of these services:

High Holiday Services

• Sept ember 20 – 7:30 p.m. EREV ROSH HASHANAH

• Sept ember 21 – 10 a.m. ROSH HASHANAH SERVICES

• Sept ember 24 – 10:30 a.m. (Valley of the Sun) – Kever Avot Service – honoring our ancestors

• Sept ember 29 – 7:30 p.m. Kol Nidrei Service

• Sept ember 30 – 10 a.m. – Yom Kippur Service

Tickets for High Holiday services are included in SLJC membership, which is $175/per person. Guest tickets for the holidays are $50. Individuals who are not current members or former members of SLJC may attend this year’s High Holiday Services as our guests at no charge. This is an opportunity for the community to come and join with the SLJC congregation in celebration of the High Holidays and learn about what SLJC has to offer. You must contact Jeff Spear at 480-556-1284 or email him at jeff.spear46@gmail.com to make a reservation.

(Photo Special to SanTan Sun News)

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D.

Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation is located at 9240 E. Sun Lakes Boulevard North. Allan Levy is publicity director for Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation.

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.

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., preceeding 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

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

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

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.

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

WEDNESDAYS

Panic Healing 7 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday

Receive a 15-minute energetic tune-up. 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 long-time 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.

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

at 12 p.m. Wednesdays.

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 901 W. Erie Street, Chandler 480-899-7386, saintmatthewschurch.org

MONDAYS

The Art of Parenting

7:30 p.m. Mondays

Six-session course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute and presented by Rabbi Mendy Deitsch of Chabad of the East Valley, designed to help parents at all levels of Jewish knowledge develop their own parenting philosophies and techniques. Cost is $99. Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler 480-855-4333, rabbi@chabadcenter.com

TUESDAYS

Silva Class and Meditation

6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays

Learn the Silva method with Lois Britland. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe 480-792-1800

Career Connectors

8:30 a.m. to noon, fourth Tuesday of month Nonprofit organization connecting professionals in career transition to high-quality resources and hiring

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

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 long-time 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

THURSDAY

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

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.

SATURDAYS

Spirit Night – Psychic Fair

4 to 8 p.m. third Saturday of each month

The “Lightworkers” offer a wide range of services, including Reiki, facials, mediums, drumming, tarot, angel messages and more. Services range from $20 to $30. Cash only.

Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center

952 E. Baseline Road, Suite 102, Mesa interfaith-community.org heatherposey70@gmail.com.

Spirit Night – A Holistic Healing Festival

1 to 6 p.m. third Saturday of the month

Lightworkers offer a wide range of services including Reiki, facials, mediums, drumming, tarot, angel messages and more. Services range from $20 to $30.

Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center

952 E. Baseline Road, Suite 102, Mesa interfaith-community.org

heatherposey70@gmail.com

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.

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

Jewish Women International, Avodah Chapter 1581

Monthly luncheon. Social Box Eateries, 1371 N. Alma School Road, Chandler RSVP: 480-802-9304, 480-655-8812

Moms in Prayer International

A group of mothers who meet one hour each week to intercede for their children and schools through prayer. Liane Wright, 480-699-7887, momsinprayer.org

Bible Study

Meets twice a month

Members of the Women’s Life Group study the Bible and discuss how the lessons can relate to their lives.

Sun Lakes United Church of Christ, Chandler. Jan Olson: 480-802-7457, Joy King 480-588-1882

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.

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

Sunday Schedule

- 9:00 a.m. / 10:30 a.m.

School - 9:00 a.m. / 10:30 a.m. Spanish Worship - 12 Noon

Worship - 9:00 a.m. / 10:30 a.m. Sunday School - 9:00 a.m. / 10:30 a.m. Spanish Worship - 12 Noon Wednesday Activities at 6:30 p.m. Students Refuge, Choir Rehearsal, Bible Studies (Meal at 5:30 p.m.)

CLASSIFIEDS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

FREETOGOODHOME

2 MaleTigerCats

Declawed,neutered& medicalrecordsareupto date.Ownercan'tkeepthem duetoillness.Catsaregentle & lovingandneedaloving family. Call520-400-8379

CARPET CLEANING

BIGJOHN'SCARPET CLEANING

Ourtruck-mountedsteam cleaningsystemwilldeep cleanyourcarpets,ridding themofunwanteddirt, bacteria,fungusand chemicalresidues. Upholsterycleaningalso available.

Tileandgroutcleaning. Foracleanandhealthy carpet,call480-786-6610or 602-989-8311JohnDowns, Owner/Operator,Ocotillo Resident.

Callformonthlyspecials.

MUSTANGCARPET& TILECLEANING

Carpet,Tile&Grout,and UpholsteryCleaning.Family owned,truck-mountedsteam cleaning.Weoff1/2-hour appointmenttimeframes,so nowaitingaround.We includepre-spraying,mild deodorizeranddegreasersfor hightrafficareasatno charge.

MemberBBBwithA+Rating! "Wecleanlikeit'sourown!" 480-688-3003

CLEANING SERVICES

AFFORDABLEANDECO FRIENDLY SUMMERSPECIAL!$25OFF 1stService.HouseCleaning Services.Residentialand CommercialCleaning. Move-In/Out.Windowand CarpetCleaning. Organization:closets, cabinets,garagesandmore! 20yearsofexperience. Impeccablereferences. SameDayServicesavailable. MemberofBBB.Licensed. Bonded.Insured. AlertCleaningServices,Inc. EcoqualityCleaningEvery Time!

www.alertcleaning.com olga@alertcleaning.com 480-786-3838.

CLEANING SERVICES

CLEANCASACLEANING SERVICES

Reliablehousecleaningdone rightthe1sttime!!One-time, weekly,bi-weekly,monthly, move-in/move-out,etc.Same 2-personcreweverytimeat yourhouse!Webringallour ownsuppliesandequipment. Willcustomize.References. Take$10offyourfirst cleaning.

Calltoday!! Amy602-284-3579

PROFESSIONALHOUSE CLEANINGSERVICE

35yearsExperience 20yearsintheValley FreeEstimates LocalReferences Move-outcleaningservices available. Allworkdoneby non-smoking,meticulous owner.

CallShirley480-433-4945

SIMPLYGRANDCLEANING SERVICE

Housecleaningspecialists offeringweekly,biweekly, monthly,orone-time cleanings.Also,providing move-in/outcleaningservice, windowsandpatios.Weuse GREENenvironmentally friendlyproducts.Highquality servicesatagreatprice.Very dependable,insuredandwith excellentreferences.$10off firstservicewithmentionof thisad.

CallReedforafree estimate480-802-1992or Email: contact@simplygrandcleaningaz.com

TOUCHEDBYANANGEL HOUSEKEEPING

Immaculate,Dependable Service.AffordableRates; SmallerHomes-$80. Move-In/Move-Outservices available.Allsupplies included."You'vetriedthe rest,nowtrytheBEST!"

AskforMartha 480-495-5516or 480-495-5545

CONCRETE & MASONRY

CONCRETEWORK

Patios,Driveways,Sidewalks, AllConcreteNeeds.25years experience.Competitive prices.FREEEstimates. Dan480-516-8920 Jason480-243-7779

DRYWALL

ALL-STARDRYWALL& PAINTING

Hang,tape,roomadditions, outsidelidrepairs,matchall textures,popcornremoval waterdamagerepairs,int,ext painting&muchmore30yrs expROC#262737freeest Call602-743-6209

ELECTRICAL

E.Z.ELECTRICSERVICE RETIREDELECTRICIAN. SMALLJOBSWANTED.I ALSOFIXLOWVOLTAGE OUTDOORLIGHTING.ALL WORKTOCODE.ISHOW UP! 480-406-3610

EMPLOYMENT

EARNExtra$150-200

workingPTatnight.Cleaning officesinSunLakes/Chandlerarea.Exppref.Mustbe abletolift40lbs.English speaking.M-F5:30-8:30apprx.Call/text480-283-5597

RECEPTIONIST

Tohelpmanageoperationsin thebranchofficeofthe worldʼslargestindependent brokeragefirm.Please contacttodayfordetails. Securitiesofferedthrough LPLFinancial,Member FINRA/SIPC. LocatedatAlmaSchooland Ocotillo.3910SAlma SchoolRd.Ste.8Chandler, AZ85248.Attn.JoeGarner (480)722-0202

GLASS SERVICES

GLASS,MIRRORS, SHOWERDOORS

FamilyOwnedwith50years' EXPERIENCE. Showerandtubenclosures Framed,Framelessor CustomDoors Wealsoinstallinsulated glass,mirroredclosetdoors, windowglass,mirrors,patio doors,glasstableprotectors. Ifitʼsglass,wecanhelpyou. QUALITYSERVICEat CompetitivePrices. FREEEstimates

WESLEY'SGLASS&MIRROR Call480-306-5113

wesleysglass.com

SERVICINGTHEENTIRE

VALLEY

HANDYMAN

ALLHONEY-DOLISTS! GeneralHandymanServices. OneCall,WeDoItAll! Ownerdoesallwork. FreeEstimateswithPride& PromptService.Licensed, Bonded,Insured. ROC118198. S&IGeneralContracting,Inc. Steve602-339-4766

GENERALHANDYMAN SERVICES

Woodworking,LightElectrical, LightPlumbing,Etc. Ownerdoesallthework. FREEEstimates 30YearsExperience Insured 203-948-0255

UNIVERSALHOMEREPAIR

Smallprojects,house maintenanceandrenovations, house/apartmentpreparation fornewtenants. Airconditioningrepairs. CallJack@480-213-4005 jacekwrona@cox.net

LANDSCAPING

HECTORSLAWNCARE

Owner/OperatorMowing, Edging,Trimming,Blowing, WeedControl,Fertilizer, CleanUps.FREEEstimates 480-636-0286

KUTTINGEDGE LANDSCAPE

A ProfessionalandReliable Maintenancecompany. Servicesincludeweeklyand biweeklymaintenance,one timecleanups,weedcontrol, treeworkandmore. CallRickforafreeestimate 480-250-6608oremail: Kuttingedgelandscape@cox.net andVisit: www.kuttingedgelandscape.com

MOVING

INOROUTMOVERS

Professional,hardworking, excellentservice.Nohidden fees.Whetheryouare movinginormovingout LEAVETHELIFTINGTOUS! ServingtheEastValley. www.inoroutmoversphoenixmetro.com CallTerryat602-653-5367

HIRING?

Place your ad in Classifieds 480-898-5611

PAINTING

ACUTABOVEPAINTING, LLC

Yourqualityrepaintspecialist. Interior/Exterior.Epoxy Floors.RoofCoatings. StainedConcrete.New Construction.FREE ESTIMATES!References available.Ownerwillbeon job.Commercial/Residential. 30yearsexperience. Licensed-Bonded-Insured ROC257167.MENTIONthis adtoreceive5%OFF! 480-244-9119

EAGLERIDGEPAINTING, LLC

Interiorrepaintspecialist, offeringin-homecolor consultingforeveryjob. UsingonlyqualitylowVOC paints,brush-n-roll application,twocoat coverage.Familyownedand operatedwithover25years experience.ROC296732 Bonded&Insured. CallSue480-825-2122

EASTVALLEYPAINTERS Voted#1RepaintSpecialists! Clean,FriendlyCrews. Interior/Exterior.Drywall Repairs.Textures.Concrete Staining.PoolDeckCoatings. GarageFloors.Free Estimates.AllCreditCards Accepted.ROC153131. 480-688-4770

PLUMBING

ABCPLUMBING&ROOTER CHANDLER/GILBERT *$79.00OFFwiththisad* 110%Guarantee*/OWNER OPERATEDSmall&Large REPAIRS24/7Slableak, watermain,hotwaterheaters, & sewerrepairspecialist. Watersofteningspecialist, waterfilters,andreverse osmosis.100-yearwarranty onparts&labor.*BBBA+ Rating.BBBEthicsAward Winner.ChandlerChamberof CommerceEmployerof ChoiceAward. *Callfordetails 480-726-1600

CLASSIFIEDS

PLUMBING

CUREALLPLUMBING

Forallyourplumbing needs!

FreeestimatesandSenior Discounts!Waterheaters, faucets,toilets,pipeleaks, garbagedisposals,slableaks, repiping,draincleaning: Clogs,jetting,Camera inspection,locating.Water softeners,ReverseOsmosis systems.Sprinklerand Backflowrepairs.Licensed, Bonded&Insured.Memberof BBB.

CureAllPlumbing 480-895-9838

Roommate needed?

Classifieds can Help! 480-898-5611

POOL SERVICES

DMPOOLSERVICE

AndEstateMaintenance. OwnerOperator.WeeklyPool Service.EquipmentRepair. FilterClean(alltypes). HouseholdRepairs. LandscapeLighting.Many OtherServices.$25towards 1stServiceorRepair. 480-295-2617 MyGoToPoolGuy.com

HENNESSYPOOLSLLC

TileCleaning/AcidWash. VacationService.Weekly Service&Repair.FilterClean (AllTypes).SaltSystems. SandChange.GreenPool Fix.FREEEstimates.Insured. $40OFFService,Repairor FilterCleanwithMentionof thisAd. hennessypoolcare@yahoo.com, http://www.hennessypools.net/ 480-577-2719

MemberofHomeAdvisor

PRESCHOOLS

SHINEPRESCHOOL

NowEnrolling Doyouhaveorknow someonepreschoolage? ShinePreschool,aprivate homebasedpreschool locatedinChandlerand taughtbyanexperiencedand passionateteacher,isnow enrollingchildrenages3-5for 2017-2018schoolyear, followingtheCUSDcalendar. Limitedspacesremaining, secureyourspotnow! Formoreinformation, email: shinepreschoolinfo@gmail.com

ROOFING

THEROOFMEDICS

Residential/Commercial RepairsandReroofing.Tile, Shingles,Flat,Walk-Decks. Licensed,Bonded,Insured. ROC#256001,K-42. 480-284-7338 www.theroofmedics.com

ROOFING

TimKLINERoofing,LLC TheMostDetailedRooferin theState.RoofsDone Right..The FIRST Time. 15Year WorkmanshipWarranty onAllCompleteRoof Systems. FREE Estimateand WrittenProposal. 480-357-2463 www.timklineroofing.com R.O.C#156979K-42Licensed,BondedandInsured

SEWER & DRAIN

ABCPLUMBING&ROOTER 480-705-7772 SERVICENOW!! 110%Guaranteed/100Year Warranty. OWNEROperated (Licensed,Bonded,Insured). 20%OFFSeniors/Military.A+ RatingwithBBB,Chandler, Gilbert,Phoenix,AZaward winning.Ifit'splumbing,we doit!24-hourflood restorationservices. Financingapprovalinminutes withNOMONEYDOWN& ZEROINTEREST.

WINDOW CLEANING

DIRTYWINDOWS,FILTHY SCREENS?

CallFishWindowCleaning@ 480-962-4688 andyouwill havethecleanestwindows andscreensontheblock. Belowisthelistofservices weoffer: Windows–Interior&Exterior Screens–Sunscreensand Regular Tracks,CeilingFans,Light Fixtures PowerWashing-Your driveway,sidewalksand patios.

JOHN'SWINDOW CLEANING

1-story$125/2-story$145 insideandoutupto30panes (add'lpanes$2) Screenscleaned$2.50per pane.PowerWashingand Re-Screeningavailable SamedayService (480)201-6471

Where to Eat

Meridiem, ante-

or post-, is a culinary retreat in Chandler’s business district

BY KENNETH LAFAVE

At last, south Chandler has a restaurant/lounge whose look matches the glass-box architecture and flat desert vistas that make the area unique. Or, one could simply shorten that statement to read: At last, Chandler has a restaurant/lounge.

The neighborhood has lacked a classy, comfortable place to meet and eat and/or drink. Now it has one, at 1245 S. Price Road, across from the PayPal building, just north of the intersection of Price Road and the hilariously named One Payment Way.

Meridiem Kitchen & Lounge is hard to find, because it’s new – so new that no sign yet looms above it. Only a small placard on the sidewalk tells you it’s there. Maybe the owners will want to maintain the anonymity of the site, a retreat disguised as just another business building, a hip secret known only to the culinarily inclined. The interior is airy and semi-industrial: exposed infrastructure hangs from a high ceiling in the manner now popular. There are two rooms: a small lounge

that doubles as a breakfast nook, and a lunch-and-dinner space vast enough to suggest the deck of a starship, complete with a commanding view of the surrounding, vaguely alien, desert.

Don’t be afraid of the name. Meridiem is a Latin word that forms the “m” half of the familiar abbreviations “a.m.” and “p.m.” It means midday, or noon, and its importance here is that the restaurant menu divides into ante-Meridiem (before noon) and post-Meridiem (after noon) halves. (The smaller room is called “ANTE” and the larger one “POST,” as clearly labeled on the walls.) Neither menu presents a real surprise, but rather the mainstream of expectations: the a.m. offers egg dishes with breakfast meats, plus pancakes/waffles/French toast, while the p.m. brings us burgers, salads, and a handful of entrees such as ribeye and salmon. The bar is replete with a strong selection of wines and liquors.

The menu may be de rigueur, but the quality of the cooking, based at least on my single experience, is far

beyond everyday. We visited in the a.m. The test of a good kitchen at breakfast is an omelette. Every chain restaurant with the word “egg” in its name serves the ubiquitous dish, and almost all of them get it wrong. An omelette at such places is a spongy, amorphous yellow blob with the optional ingredients mixed in. An actual omelette retains the savor and texture of a pan-cooked egg, into which is folded – not mixed – the chosen cheeses, vegetables or meats.

I ordered an omelette with Monterrey jack cheese, green peppers and mushrooms at a very affordable $9. It arrived, surprisingly quickly, in neat presentation with breakfast-style potatoes and rye toast. The peppers had been par-cooked to reduce (not eliminate) crunch but retain flavor, and the mushrooms had been freshly prepared. The vegetables and cheese were carefully folded into the egg, allowing all the ingredients their individual contributions, not homogenizing them. Meridiem’s “a.m.” potatoes are half a click better than most, and we’re

guessing the quality of the potato is the positive factor. Only the rye toast disappointed: It was dry to the point of resisting the butter I tried to spread on it.

Someday, perhaps only in a dream, good restaurants such as Meridiem will serve coffee with the quality of our best local coffee shops. That is never the case, though Meridiem’s was quite acceptable.

I’ll return sometime to experience the “post” half of Meridiem, perhaps to try the two rather unusual menu items: a happy hour-oriented set of appetizers called “Toppings on Toast,” with said toppings ranging from heirloom tomatoes to avocado with basil and ribeye with caramelized onions ($3 and $4), and mini-empanadas filled with buffalo chicken, ribeye, or portobello mushroom, mix and match three for $13.

Meridiem Kitchen & Lounge is at 1245 S. Price Road. It’s open Sunday-Thursday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. For more information call 480696-1150 or visit meridiemaz.com.

Queen Creek Feastival offers variety of gourmet food trucks, live music

BY SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Anyone looking for their choice in food, as well as some free entertainment, can feast their eyes, and appetites, on an event in Queen Creek.

Every Friday, 15 to 30 gourmet food trucks, along with 10 to 20 handmade/ homemade boutique vendors, sell their goods at the Queen Creek Feastival. The gathering is in front of the Queen Creek Library at 21802 S. Ellsworth Road, just north of Ocotillo Road. The next one is from 5:30 to 9 p.m. on July 7.

Live music is performed and the event is free. People can bring their own lawn chairs or sit at a table on the lot to eat their food and listen to music. The event rotates more

than 120 food trucks, giving diners a chance to sample different cuisines. To learn more, visit azfeastivals.com/ qcfeastival.

(Photos by Kenneth LaFave)

Meridiem offers build-your-own omelettes with potatoes and a choice of toast.

The restaurant menu divides into ante-Meridiem (before noon) and post-Meridiem (after noon) halves. The larger room is labeled “POST.”

(Photo special to SanTan Sun News)

Chef, restaurant owner offers tips on barbecues

BY ADAM ALLISON

It’s summertime and the Fourth of July is fast approaching. Before we go out to find those nighttime fireworks, many of us fire up our grills for a good ol’ American July 4 feast. For those of you who might be intimidated by the grill, or seem to overcook the chicken until it’s charred black, or if you are just those looking for a few pointers, here are some tips when it comes to grilling out.

Choosing your meat – Everyone has their favorite cut of meat. Bone-in meats are going to work best on the grill; better than in a sautee pan. Don’t be afraid to spend a little extra for a good, quality cut of meat. There are a lot of local meat purveyors in town, like the Meat Shop in Phoenix and the Pork Shop in Queen Creek. My favorite or “go-to” cut of meat to grill is a nice thick-cut ribeye. Start off on the hot part of the grill to get a nice dark sear and finish on the cooler side. This keeps the steak from burning on the outside before the inside gets to your wanted temperature.

Prepping your grill - Make sure you have a clean grill. After a good wire brush down, I will add some vegetable oil to paper towels and rub down the grate to help prevent sticking. Whether it’s charcoal, gas or wood, you want to have a hot part of the grill and a cooler part of the grill. Gas grills are pretty

easy to control. For charcoal or wood, you want to bank everything in the middle of the grill. So the hot spot will be in the middle and the cooler will be around the edges. Also let the grill get good and hot before you throw any meats on; this will keep the meat from sticking.

Preparing your meat - Don’t be afraid to try different marinades. I mostly use soy sauce and Worcestershire in my marinades and then will add additional ingredients (citrus, fresh herbs, dry herbs, hot sauce, etc). I always rub down baby back ribs with a good yellow mustard and then season and cook it in the oven for three hours. Then I finish it on the grill. At the very least, USE SALT; it brings out all the flavor.

Resting your meat – You spent time going out to buy, prepare and cook your meat… let it rest. It makes all the difference in the world and the best restaurants make it part of their routine to let it set before they serve it. This gives the juices time to relax. Also do yourself a favor and get a thermometer so there isn’t any question on the wellness of your meat. What else to grill besides meat – You don’t just have to grill meat. Meaty vegetables like squash, eggplant and peppers are great on the grill. I love brushing some chimichurri

on grilled vegetables to give it an extra kick.

Adam Allison is a Chandler resident and owner and head chef of the Handlebar Diner in Queen Creek.

(Photo by Steph Daigneault)

Adam Allison, an expert barbecue chef, works at his restaurant in Queen Creek.

Where to Eat

WHERE KIDS EAT FREE

Chompie’s

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.

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.

Floridino’s Pizza & Pasta 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 Andersen Fiesta Shopping Center, 1760 W. Chandler Boulevard, Chandler 480-963-8000 www.hungrymonkaz.com

Kids eat free on Mondays with every purchase of an adult entrée.

NYPD Pizza

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.

Pittsburgh Willy’s

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.

Planet Sub

1920 W. Germann Road, Chandler 480-245-6503

www.planetsub.com

Kids eat free with a paying adult on Mondays.

WHERE KIDS EAT FREE

Social Box 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 of an adult entrée on Mondays.

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.

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, 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 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

I recently closed on an investment property with Henry and Irwin. This is the 3rd transaction I did with Henry and his team within 16 months. His market knowledge, deep experience, and honest insights were invaluable. Closings have been smooth each time. I would recommend Henry and Irwin to anyone who is seeking efficiency, honesty, and friendly service.

- Steven W. Chandler, AZ

and the purchasers thanks to Henry’s experience is the Arizona market. Throughout the whole process of being listed and the sale we were happy with our decision to use Henry and his team. Thanks, Kevin & Karen

Henry recently helped us sell our house in Chandler and we truly enjoyed working with him. He has demonstrated a high level of professionalism from the first day we met. He is very knowledgeable about the area and has our best interest in mind throughout the selling process. We would definitely recommend his service to our friends & families.

- Kevin H. Chandler, AZ