12 21 13stsn p45 55 neighbors

Neighbors

www.SanTanSun.com

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

45

Neighbors BMX racer, 6, cycling his way to the top

Luxe helps injured Cardinal’s charity

Pastor returns from serving country

Neighbors PAGE 46

Spirituality PAGE 66

Where to Eat PAGES 72-74

Floridino’s: Value and taste that continues to honor community

BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

Floridino’s is one of those rare successful family-owned businesses. It has grown exponentially during the past 17 years, has expanded its original location and shows no signs of slowing down. But, the proof isn’t in the restaurant’s size, it’s in the way it has connected with its customers and its community at every level.

The restaurant is owned by Jeff Weninger, a city councilman since 2006, and business partner Shaun Kelley. The enthusiasm for Floridino’s is simply infectious.

“People come for the food and the affordability is what brings them back,” states Weninger. “In the current market conditions, people still want to eat out at a restaurant.

SINFULLY SIGNATURE: Floridino’s signature pizza muffins are always one of its hottest menu items.

STSN photo by Lynette Carrington

SEE FLORIDINO’S PAGE 48

Not too late to winterize yards

LEND A HAND: Cyrus Hembree is raising funds via https://fundrazr.com/ campaigns/0ev11 for his trip to the Gator Nationals. STSN photo by Max Kraust

BY MAX KRAUST

“Winning” is what 6-year-old Cyrus Hembree says he enjoys most about racing bicycle motocross (BMX)—and he does plenty of that.

The Galveston Elementary School student competed against 26 other 6-year-old racers Thanksgiving weekend at the 2013 USA BMX Grand Nationals in Tulsa, OK. Cyrus fell back to seventh place after another rider crashed in front of him, but made his way through the pack to finish in fourth. He maintained his No. 2 national ranking for the second consecutive year.

Things did not always look this bright for the BMX star. He entered foster care as a 3-month-old toddler. Scott Hembree took Cyrus in shortly after receiving his foster parent license with his mother.

“My mother always wanted to be a foster parent and she never had time,” Scott says. “She moved here from Colorado and we decided to take the classes together.”

Scott and his wife, Charlayne, formally adopted Cyrus and his younger brother, Daniel, earlier this year.

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

Even though the East Valley has encountered its first freeze, it isn’t too late to winterize the yard.

Home owners can begin to protect their precious landscaping from the elements during the cool months, says Chandler Certified Arborist and Water Conservation Coordinator Cathy Rymer.

“Even if they are behind because of the holidays, they can still catch up,” she explains.

First on the list should be adjusting the water schedule. Rymer says automatic water systems are forgotten about rather easily. Most plants grow during the summer, so they do not need as much water this time of the year.

Bermuda grass lies dormant over the winter,

SEE BMX PAGE 49

GREEN THUMB: Cathy Rymer offers advice about winterizing East Valley yards. She suggests starting with adjusting the water schedule. Submitted photo

so it only needs to be watered monthly. Winter lawns, on the other hand, should be watered once a week or less.

“Grass can get by with much, much less,” she says.

The rule of thumb, so to speak, is cycle and SEE WINTERIZE YARDS PAGE 49

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December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

Neighbors

www.SanTanSun.com

Luxe helps injured Cardinal’s charity during Hope for Life action For the second consecutive year, Luxe Salon and Spa donated its services to Sam Acho’s Hope for Life Celebrity Auction and Fashion Show on Nov. 26 at The Ritz-Carlton.

Acho is an Arizona Cardinals linebacker who is on injured reserve as he broke his leg early in the season.

The second annual event—which benefits a foundation started by Acho’s parents, Sonny and Christie Acho— raised funds to build the Living Hope Clinic to provide much-needed medical care in Nigeria.

Acho’s parents, who were born in Nigeria, began coordinating medical missions in 1989 after traveling back to Africa and seeing people suffering and dying from a lack of over-the-counter medicine that is commonly available in the United States. During these missions, the Acho family brings doctors, nurses,

FOR A GOOD CAUSE: Makeup artist Amanda Fletcher, stylist Lindsey Hayes, stylist Avery Woodhouse, owner/manager/stylist Danielle Jones, and Abby Schreck pose with host Sam Acho of the Arizona Cardinals. Submitted photo by Carlos Solis

surgeons, dentists and more to give free medical care to those in need.

At the fundraiser, Luxe provided hair, makeup and styling services to a number of notable attendees, including

FLANKING LARRY: Makeup artist Amanda Fletcher, stylist Megan Ryan, owner/manager/ stylist Danielle Jones, Cardinals star Larry Fitzgerald and stylist Avery Woodhouse pose during Sam Acho’s charity event. In the front row is stylist Janelle Williams. Submitted photo by Carlos Solis

Destinee Quinn of “The Voice,” Lindsey Lou of “The Bachelor,” and a few players’ significant others—Rebecca Feely (kicker Jay Feely’s wife), Shaelynn

Palmer (quarterback Carson Palmer’s wife), Manjanique Alexander (wife of injured linebacker Lorenzo Alexander), as well as Maria Magana, who is engaged to UFC lightweight champion Benson Henderson.

The Luxe team, led by owner/ manager/stylist Danielle Jones and Manager Tammy Rosenberg, included Amanda Fletcher, Megan Ryan, Janelle Williams, Lindsey Hayes, Avery Woodhouse, Abby Schreck, Stormy Martin, Marnie Rosenberg and Brittany Wasilefsky.

The night began with a pubstyle reception dinner and silent auction. A live auction, fashion show, entertainment and dessert followed.

Acho says more than $100,000 was raised for Living Hope Ministries. Learn more at http://livinghopeministries. us/.

Restaurant offers new desserts New made-from-scratch goodies grace BLD’s dessert menu via Pastry Chef Danielle Morris from its sister restaurant Cork.

The new items include chocolate pudding cake with peanut butter ice cream and caramelized bananas and the butterscotch cheesecake with Guinnesscandied bacon and bacon caramel sauce.

The rocky road bread pudding remaines on the menu.

Weekly specials Try a bowl of made-from-scratch roasted red pepper bisque with brie and arugula on toasted sourdough for lunch or a comforting chicken fried steak with hash browns, beer gravy and eggs for

your afternoon craving.

BLD is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. It is located at 1920 W. Germann Rd., Chandler. Call, 480-779-8646, for information.

Neighbors

www.SanTanSun.com

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

Swim center lists schedule and events Morning and night lap swimming offered

American Red Cross Lifeguarding Course

Do you want to get in some lap swimming in the morning or at night?

Hamilton Aquatic Center, 3838 S. Arizona Ave., offers lap swimming from 5 to 7:30 a.m. Monday through Thursday. Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center, 5901 S. Hillcrest Dr., offers night lap swimming from 7 to 9 p.m.

Monday through Thursday. Admission is $2, regardless of age. Punch passes are offered to save swimmers 5 to 30% each visit, as well as an annual pass for only $200, which is valid at both locations.

The American Red Cross Lifeguarding Course will teach participants the knowledge and skills needed to prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies.

The course contents and activities prepare participants to recognize and respond quickly and effectively to emergencies and prevent drownings and injuries. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certificate for lifeguarding, first aid, CPR AED, which is valid for two years. It is a 30-hour course. The cost is $120 for residents and $150 for nonresidents.

Prerequisites include swimming 300 yards continuously; demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing; tread water for 2 minutes using legs only; complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds and must be 15 years old by the last day of the class.

Winter swim sessions offered for free A winter swim session will be held on Saturdays at Hamilton Aquatic Center from Jan. 18 through Feb. 8 in the heated pool. Mesquite Groves and Hamilton Aquatic Center will hold sessions on Saturdays from Feb. 22 through March 15.

There is no charge for the free swim lessons, which will be taught by water safety instructor candidates. To register visit chandleraz.gov/registration.

Public swim hours

This course trains instructor candidates to teach water safety, including the basic water rescue courses, six levels of the progressive learn to swim program and parent and child aquatics. It is a 43-hour course that includes five hours of the F.I.T. course and eight hours of instructor candidate practical teaching time.

Cost is $103 for residents and $127 for

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nonresidents.

Prerequisites include demonstrating proficiency in the front crawl freestyle stroke, back crawl backstroke, breaststroke, elementary backstroke, sidestroke and butterfly, maintain position on back for one minute in deep water floating or sculling and treading water for one minute and must be 16 years old by the last day of the class.

Family season pass sale Receive a 15% discount on a Family Season Pass for a family of four when you purchase a pass from March 8 through March 16. Cost is $95 for admission to all six aquatic centers March through November. The passes are available for Chandler residents only. Purchase the pass by visiting Hamilton or Mesquite Aquatic Centers during their operational hours March 8 through March 16 only.

The regular price for a family of four is $112 plus $15 for each additional member.

47

Animal flashlight walk at San Tan Mountain Regional Park Individuals will have the opportunity to help Ranger B find nocturnal animals of the desert at 7 p.m. Fri., Dec. 28 during a 1.3-mile hike along the Littleleaf and Goldmine Trail. Bring a flashlight, water and wear closed-toe shoes. Make sure to leave your pets at home.

Visit San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Rd., Queen Creek, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. An entry fee of $6 is required per vehicle. The parks upcoming events can be seen at maricopa.gov/parks/santan/.

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December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

Neighbors

FLORIDINO’S FROM PAGE 45

They just look for better options.”

Floridino’s is in touch with the community. Kitchen Manager Chris Andrew has been with Floridino’s for 13 years and was previously a Chandler High School quarterback. Likewise, General Manager Mike Mowery has been with the restaurant from day one and also played football for CHS. It is quite a feat when a restaurant can hold on to and develop its devoted staff over such a notable period of time.

The menu at Floridino’s is not only affordable but features many traditional Italian dishes, plus some unexpected surprises that are well-loved by the regular clientele. The pizza muffins are one of the most in-demand menu items.

“Essentially, it’s a medium pizza rolled up and sliced,” Weninger explains. The fun-sized, hand-held pizza muffins have been so popular that they were even featured in Food Network Magazine.

Pizza muffins come in many flavors, but the most popular are the original-style muffins, which are stuffed with ham, ground beef, Italian sausage and fresh mozzarella cheese, and the barbecue chicken muffins, with seasoned chicken breast, crispy bacon and onions with Bull’s Eye barbecue sauce and fresh mozzarella cheese. Or, customers can create their own using a large list of ingredients.

Floridino’s is also known for its delicious—and massive—calzones. At lunch time, a two-item calzone and a drink is only $7 and is enough for lunch and an afternoon snack. For those who want to try something different,

THE PROOF IS IN THE PASTA: Floridino’s has a large variety of Italian pastas, including baked spaghetti. STSN photo by Lynette Carrington

Floridino’s offers gourmet white calzones made with the restaurant’s own secret white sauce of ricotta cheese, fresh garlic and a blend of herbs and spices, tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.

There is also a generous selection of salads, including antipasto and Greek salads, pizzas and hearty Italian sandwiches. Pastas are something special at Floridino’s, too.

“Our pastas are very good. Our lasagna and fettuccine Alfredo are excellent and our baked spaghetti is second-tonone,” states Weninger. Gluten-free pasta is also on the menu. Italian-inspired desserts include traditional spumoni ice cream, New York style cheesecake and

DO YOU HAVE

a Sicilian sundae made with a soft fudge brownie or deep dish chocolate chip cookie topped with vanilla ice cream. The homemade, fresh-baked bread pudding is another signature item at Floridino’s.

The banquet room at Floridino’s is one hot property, Weninger states.

“Our banquet room is booked two to three times per day at this time of year,” he says.

The dedicated banquet room seats up to 70 people and is the perfect spot for birthdays, family reunions, wedding receptions—and the occasional wedding—rehearsal dinners, graduations and corporate events.

“We have three televisions in the room

?

for corporate presentations or videos.”

There is no fee for the banquet room with a minimum purchase.

“We cater to a lot of community events, nonprofits and schools and we do fundraisers all the time,” Weninger notes.

During designated fundraising events, 20% of what is taken in by the fundraising group at the restaurant is returned directly to the organization.

Even after so many years in business, Weninger continues to love what he does.

“I still bus tables and work in the restaurant. If customers come in and ask me about what is going on in Chandler, I’ll discuss it with them,” he explains.

The restaurant serves hundreds of happy customers a day and he is excited that Floridino’s remains fresh and continues to grow. In fact, Weninger anticipates adding a second kitchen to the restaurant to help accommodate the growing demands of catering. Weninger and Kelley also own Dilly’s Deli, with two locations in Tempe and one each in Chandler and Scottsdale. For more information, visit www.dillysdeli.com.

Through Dec. 31, with the purchase of $20 in gift cards, customers will receive a $5 gift card for free. Floridino’s Pizza & Pasta is located at 590 N. Alma School Rd., north of Chandler Boulevard. Call 480-812-8433 for additional information or to make banquet room reservations.

Its website is www.floridinos.net.

Lynette Carrington is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at lynette@santansun.com.

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Neighbors

www.SanTanSun.com BMX FROM PAGE 45

WINTERIZE LAWNS FROM PAGE 45

Scott and Charlayne have been good influences on Cyrus and Daniel. Scott raced BMX as a kid and was a national champion velodrome racer.

“Bicycling was in my blood, and my wife races mountain bikes and takes him out when she can,” Scott says.

Besides his father and mother, Cyrus was inspired by riders at Chandler BMX. “We used to be watching the racers and I thought it was fun, and then I got in it,” says Cyrus.

Cyrus started racing BMX at the age of 4 and quickly became one of the best in his age group. It took him nine months to gain his expert license, when it often takes others more than two years to do so.

“We enjoyed racing so much,” Scott says. “We would race all over the place.”

That trend continues. Cyrus practices six days a week and travels throughout the nation.

“Those wins stacked up fast and all the sudden parents started asking me if we were going to Grand Nationals,” Scott says.

Cyrus’ first big national race was at the 2012 Disney Cup in Orlando, FL, where he finished in third place, helping him qualify for his first Grand National competition.

“A friend had a lot of reward points and bought us plane tickets to Orlando to race in the Disney Cup.” Scott says. “That put him on the map.”

Like other 6-year-olds, Cyrus enjoys other activities. His favorite subject at Galveston is math and he likes to play football and soccer at recess. He also runs twice a week with the Galveston running club.

Cyrus is an avid watcher of dinosaur videos on YouTube.

“He watches every YouTube video there is on dinosaurs and memorizes them,” Scott says.

Cyrus will be competing in the first national race of the year in Reno, NV, from Jan. 10 to Jan. 12. He is also looking to race at the Gator Nationals in Oldsmar, FL, in March, which could help him gain the No. 1 national ranking and a factory sponsorship.

Cyrus is raising funds via https://fundrazr.com/campaigns/0ev11 for his trip to the Gator Nationals.

soak. Individuals should water for short periods of time, approximately 4 minutes, and let the water soak for 30 minutes to an hour before repeating.

“Many times when people irrigate their yards, they do it in the morning when they are sleeping or in the evening,” Rymer says. “They don’t notice the water running off the yard and into the street.”

Drip watering systems should also be checked during the winter months for leaks and clogs, or damaged sprinkler heads.

With recent temperatures dipping into the low 30s, it is also important to use precautionary measures to prevent damage to plants.

“Some plants are affected by these temperatures, like yellow bells, orange bells and bougainvillea, as well as tender annual flowers such as marigolds and vegetables like tomatoes and peppers,” she says.

“Covering with frost cloth, sheets or light blankets is the best way to prevent frost damage. Even though the leaves and tender outer shoots may be affected, covering should keep main stems safe, so they can produce new shoots next spring.”

Jo Cook, University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Office program coordinator for urban horticulture, says individuals need to cover their plants with sheets or frost cloths, not plastic, while the sun is still out.

“Use the trapped warm temperatures from the soil and cover the plants, so it retains that heat,” Cook says. “It can make a 6- to 10-degree difference to the immediate environment of the plant.”

Plants should be covered all the way to the ground with sheets or frost cloths that are held down with rocks or landscaping staples.

Because the cold snaps catch many by surprise, many of the nurseries and home improvement centers have already sold out of the frost clothes, Rymer says.

She says folks who have columnar cactus, such

Max Kraust is a student at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. He can be reached at news@santansun.com.

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

as cereus, Mexican fence post and organ pipe, can use Styrofoam cups to cover the tips of the stems to help prevent frost and freeze damage.

With the possibility of damage taking place, Rymer recommends that individuals do not prune their trees and bushes until after January because that is typically the coldest month.

“Even if parts of plants get frost, it helps insulate the rest of the plant,” she explains.

The general rule is not to remove more than 25% of the living parts—stems, leaves and branches—in any given year, when pruning. Rymer says if they have been frost damaged than those parts are dead and can be removed.

“It is better to leave them on until mid to late February,” Rymer says of the dead branches. “It prevents even more damage.”

If someone pruned after the first frost, it leaves what remains even more vulnerable to another frost.

Ideally, individuals should mulch their yard with organic mulch or compost in the fall to insulate their soil.

“If they haven’t done it, it’s not too late,” she says.

Mulch, which will keep weeds down, should be distributed in 3-inch layers, which should be good until the following year. Do not pile the mulch against trunks of shrubs or trees.

Rymer says the stem or trunk, where the trunk tissue meets the soil, needs to remain exposed to air, so it does not suffocate.

“Do not fertilize during winter,” she explains. “It promotes new growth, which is vulnerable to frost.

Wait until March to fertilize.”

For more information on how to winterize yards, visit http://cals.arizona.edu/maricopa/garden/ html/general/hort.htm.

Meghan McCoy is the Neighbors and Business section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@santansun.com.

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50

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

Neighbors

www.SanTanSun.com

Parks and Recreation Department hosts slew of activities The Senior Center is located at 202 E. Boston St., Chandler. For information call 480-782-2720.

Adults need something to do?

The winter adults sports season kicks off on Mon., Jan. 3, and registration is open. Chandler Adults Sports Leagues are a great way to exercise and have fun with friends. For information call Teo Ruiz at 480-782-2701 or email him at teofilo. ruiz@chandleraz.gov or visit chandleraz. gov/adult-sports.

Tumbleweed Recreation Center activities

Chandler Tennis Center Enrollment has begun for the Winter Session Classes and Leagues for the Chandler Tennis Center. The classes begin on Mon., Jan. 6. The youth and adult classes are filling up quick, so make sure to register. Classes start for those 4 years old and older.

The Chandler Tennis Court is located at 2240 S. McQueen Rd., Chandler. For information call 480-782-2650.

White Elephant Gift Exchange A White Elephant Gift Exchange will be held at the Senior Center at 10 a.m.

Mon., Dec. 23. The event is free to attend.

Find something around your house that you do not want anymore, wrap it up and bring it with you.

The Tabata Bootcamp will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. Mon., Jan. 6, through Fri., Feb. 28, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Cost is $115 for residents and $156 for nonresidents. Tabata Bootcamp is a revolutionary training program that combines cutting edge H.I.I.T. exercise, sound nutrition and the latest in behavioral science.

The Youth Winter Camp, for ages 5 to 12, will be held from Mon., Dec. 23, through Tue., Jan. 3. Full day prices are $103 for residents and $140 for nonresidents and half day is $70 for residents and $95 for nonresidents.

Morning, afternoon and full day sessions are available. Qualified staff will engage the youth in sports, games, arts and crafts, skits, youth development activities and special events.

Tumbleweed Recreation Center is located at 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler.

For information, call 480-782-2900.

Social media and newsletters Make sure to include “Come Out and Play Chandler” and #FunInChandler whenever you visit Chandler parks, recreation facilities or aquatic centers when posting on social media.

Do you want to stay up to date? Sign up for the newsletter at chandleraz.gov/ listserv and enter your email address in the Parks and Recreation Newsletter optin box.

Orangetheory Fitness is based on the ‘orange zone’ Orangetheory Fitness, which started off with one location in 2009, has nine facilities, with two more opening at the end of January. There will be 27 locations open by the end of 2015.

Orangetheory is based on the “orange zone,” which is the peak heart rate zone where your body is burning stubborn and hard to reach fat cells and pushing you into excess post-oxygen consumption

that burns calories and speeds up your metabolism up to 26-hours post workout. By staying in the orange zone for a minimum of 24 to 30 minutes, you will burn up to 900 calories in each onehour class and up to 1,200 calories post workout.

Orangetheory continuously monitors your heart rate throughout the entire one-hour class to make sure that you are

in the orange zone, through heart-rate based monitors that are tailored to your body and live streaming on TV screens in the studio.

Orangetheory is located at 1900 W. Germann Rd., Suite 6, Chandler, at the northeast corner of Dobson and Germann roads. For more information call 480-699-6115 or visit orangetheoryfitness.com.

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www.SanTanSun.com

Neighbors

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

51

December blood donors receive Second community opened voucher for free pizza

by Shea Homes at the Bridges in Gilbert All December blood donors will receive a voucher for a free 14-inch cheese pizza, courtesy of Streets of New York, due to its partnership with United Blood Services.

“As a business that is headquartered and has been operating in Arizona for 36 years, we feel that it’s our responsibility to help those who are in need,” says Lorrie Glaeser, owner of Streets of New York. “Part of our commitment to quality is giving back to the communities in which our team members and customers live and work. We are pleased to reward donors who save lives with a delicious pizza from Streets of New York to enjoy with their friends and family.”

Since blood has a shelf life of 42 days, donors will help save patients throughout the most challenging time of the year to maintain our state’s blood supply.

Locations Those interested in donating blood can do so 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. Fri., Dec. 27, at Chandler Regional Medical Center. Park at the south entrance and take the first elevator to the lower level to the blood drive in the conference rooms. Schedule your appointment at BloodHero.com using sponsor code blooddrive or call 480-728-3201.

Individuals can also donate blood at

Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, 3555 S. Val Vista Dr., Gilbert, from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Mon., Dec. 30. The blood drive is on the ground floor conference room.

Turn left after walking into the main entrance. Schedule your appointment at BloodHero.com using sponsorcode Mercygilbert or call 480-728-7080.

Donations can also be made at the Chandler Donor Center, 1989 W. Elliot Rd., Suite 32, Chandler; the Mesa Donor Center, 1337 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101, Mesa; and Scottsdale Donor Center, 15170 N. Hayden Rd., Suite 6, Scottsdale.

A second community was opened

by Shea Homes Arizona last month called the Retreat. The first community at the Bridges, Elements was opened in September.

There are six different floor plans— Serenity, Majestic, Harmony, Tranquility, Inspiration and Reflection at the Retreat, which has 97 lots that are 45 by 115 in size. There are three floor plans that are single-story homes ranging from 1,500 to 1,825 square feet and the other three are two-story homes ranging from 2,098 to 2,468 square feet. Prices start at $239,000.

“It’s a great accomplishment for Shea Homes to be opening a second community at The Bridges just under two months after opening our first one,” says Shea Homes Arizona Vice President of Sales and Marketing Ken Peterson. “With the addition of Retreat, we are excited to add more variety and selection for our customers here at The Bridges at Gilbert.”

The Bridge encompasses 480 acres with 1,600 lots planned. Such distinct features as Environment for Living designation, which is a twoyear guarantee that the home will not exceed a specified energy limit for heating and cooling, is offered by Shea

CHOICES: This is one of a handful of Shea Homes models. Submitted photo Homes Arizona. A refund is given of the difference if the home goes over the guarantee.

There are meandering lakes and streams, trail systems, splash pads, barbecue grills, play structures, game tables and community parks in the master planned community of the Bridges.

The collaborative grand opening with all builders in the Bridges at Gilbert will take place the weekend of Feb. 8 at Queen Creek and Higley roads.

For more information call 1-866696-7432 or visit sheahomes.com/ newhomes/phoenix.

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52

Neighbors

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

Historic Downtown Chandler Office Space Executive Office Suites For Lease From $800 Per Month!

Includes: Utilities, Internet, Furniture, Cleaning and Security.

www.SanTanSun.com

Arizona Income Tax Credit Supporting People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

90 W. BOSTON ABOVE PALETAS BETTY'S

T

hanks to the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit Lay, A.R.S. 43-1088, donate to Chandler Gilbert Arc and receive a tax credit. [This Working Poor Tax Credit is in addition to the education tax credits…you can take advantage of both tax credits in the same year.]

Chandler Gilbert Arc has been serving people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in the East Valley since 1975, providing community living, vocational, day treatment and training opportunities daily.

Contributions earn dollar-for-dollar tax credit on your Arizona Income Tax return. Taxpayers filing as single or unmarried head of household have a maximum credit amount of $200; married taxpayers filing jointly have a $400 maximum credit. New for 2013: There is no longer a requirement to itemize deductions!

Please make your check payable to:

Chandler/Gilbert Arc Charitable Tax Fund 3250 N. San Marcos Place Chandler, AZ 85225-7789

3,600 sq. ft. Office Space Historic Hotel Chandler ABOVE THE DC STEAKHOUSE 88 S. SAN MARCOS

1,350 sq. ft.

Office Space

Check to see if your employer will match your donation

Only Ground Level on The Square

www.cgarc.org

http://doublethedonation.com/cgarc

We also accept Mastercard, Discover and American Express.

Please contact Carol at (480) 892-9422, ext. 104 Chandler City Center Developers

602-625-6815

Tom@blissmkt.com

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Patty David, PT, MDT and Dr. Jonathan David, DC, QN and The Healthsource Team.

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480-726-3305

www.ActiveSpineTherapy.com 1445 S. Arizona Ave. Ste. 12 • Chandler

Decompression Spinal Rejuvenation Therapy Auto Accident Injuries Work Related Injuries Orthopedic Injuries TMJ Disorders Vestibular Disorders Lower Back Pain/Sciatica Headaches / Migraines Neck, Shoulder and Arm Pain Hip/Leg Pain Numbness / Tingling Sprains / Strains Muscle Spasms

Chandler/Gilbert Arc is an IRS Section 501(c) (3) non-profit organization and is a qualifying charitable organization registered with the Arizona Department of Revenue.

Neighbors

www.SanTanSun.com

NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKS Call ahead to confirm information, as details occasionally change after print. If you have a recurring monthly meeting you would like listed in Neighborhood Networks, email complete details to News@ SanTanSun.com. Note: The SanTan Sun News now has a Spiritual Connections column in the Spirituality section for ongoing religiousrelated events.

About Care Monthly volunteer training, by individual appointment.

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

Info: 480-802-2331, aboutcare.org Absolute Business Builders: Business Networking International 8-9:30 a.m. Wednesdays Chompie’s 3841 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Nikki Janulewicz, 480-570-1835, Nikki@azbestmove.com Action Networkers: Business Networking International 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays Chompies 3841 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Marty Recht, 602-315-2056, Marty@AZMarty.com

1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Mindy, 602-528-0545, ext. 201 Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter, Gilbert 1:30-3 p.m. first and third Friday of the month Support group for caregivers of people with dementia. Free; no preregistration required.

First United Methodist Church of Gilbert 331 S. Cooper Rd., Gilbert Info: Mindy, 602-528-0545, ext. 201 American Legion James O. Schroeder Post 55 7 p.m. third Tuesday of the month Sun Lakes Country Club, Navajo Room 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes Info: Commander Byron Weston, 480802-6623

American Society of Women Accountants, Mesa East Valley Chapter Alzheimer’s Association Desert 5:30 p.m. fourth Tuesday of the month Southwest Chapter, Chandler Nonprofit organization holds monthly 5:30 p.m. second Thursday of the networking and educational sessions month for women in accounting.

Support group for caregivers of people Landmark Restaurant with dementia. Free; no preregistration 809 W. Main St., Mesa required.

Info: Shelby, 602-430-8834, aswa-mev.

Chandler Regional Hospital, Morrison org Building, Learning Resource Room

Arizona Business Connection Networking Group 7-8:30 a.m. Wednesdays Networking / referral group holds weekly breakfast meetings with member presentations and marketing training sessions. Guests are free. Call in advance.

Dobson Ranch Golf Course Restaurant 2155 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa Info: Danny, 602-363-0147, Danny.

Balanon@RealLiving.com

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

facebook.com/BYOBAZ Chandler Airport Commission 7 p.m. second Wednesday of the month The Commission makes recommendations to 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

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

Chandler Business Alliance 7:30-8:30 a.m. Thursdays Professional business coalition dedicated to the economic and social development of its members and the Chandler community as a whole.

BLD 1920 W. Germann Rd., Chandler Business Referral Exchange Info: chandleralliance@gmail.com, Worldwide (BREW) Noon-1:30 p.m. first and third Thursday chandleralliance.com of the month Chandler Chamber Business Golf Industry-specific referral and 7 a.m. tee time, first and third networking group Wednesdays of the month Dobson Ranch Inn Includes nine holes of golf, 1666 S. Country Club Dr., Mesa continental breakfast and networking Info: Jeremy McClymonds, 480-444opportunities. Preregistration required 2228, BREWus.com online. Golf venue varies.

Info: chandlerchamber.com Build Your Own Business: Chandler 8 a.m. first and third Thursdays of the Chandler Farmers Market month 3-7 p.m. Thursdays East Valley networking and referral Weekly market with more than 30 organization, meets in Ahwatukee vendors selling fresh produce, baked at a private location; address will be goods, gourmet food and handmade provided upon contact. crafts. Free admission.

Info: Lisa, lisa@lisamatusak.com, Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, east side of

WebXtra:

53

Arizona Avenue, Chandler Info: 480-855-3539, downtownchandler. org Chandler Lions Club 6:30 p.m. first and third Tuesdays of the month Area residents are invited to come join like-minded volunteers and make new friends.

Atria Chandler Villas, Community Room 101 S. Yucca St., Chandler Info: RuthJon Wick, 480-895-3569, az1ruthjon@q.com Chandler Rotary Club Noon Tuesdays Dynamic, service-oriented group meeting for fellowship, lunch and informative programs on topics of global and local importance.

Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort 1 N. San Marcos Pl., Chandler Info: Kevin Dempsey, 480-216-2849, chandler-rotary.org Chandler Young Professionals: Kiwanis 6-8 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays of the month For busy professionals who volunteer to primarily help the children of the world.

Mimi’s Café 2800 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler Info: Jeremy McClymonds, 480-2417256, Jeremy@formprosperity.com, facebook.com/KiwanisCYP, meetup. com/KiwanisCYP

For a complete list of SanTan Sun area clubs, associations and networking groups, visit www.SanTanSun.com and click on “Neighbors” to read Neighborhood Networks.

54

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

Neighbors

www.SanTanSun.com

Chandler resident honored by DAISY Foundation

Tickets on sale for NHRA Mello Yello event Feb. 21 - 23

Chandler resident and oncology nurse at the University of Arizona Cancer Center and St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Raena Sally was recognized by the DAISY Foundation for providing outstanding care.

She has been a nurse at St. Joseph’s for eight years and her knowledge and dedication meet the highest standards.

She is pursuing her master’s degree with a focus in education.

The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses is part of The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Foundation’s program to recognize the super-human efforts nurses make every day. The award at St. Joseph’s is cosponsored by Wells Fargo.

The not-for-profit DAISY Foundation, based in Glen Ellen, CA, was established

by J. Mark Barnes and his family in memory of his son J. Patrick Barnes.

J. Patrick died at the age of 33 in 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a littleknown autoimmune disease. The nursing care Patrick and his family received while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and families.

St. Joseph’s joins 24 other medical facilities in the nation being honored with The Daisy Award.

The newly transformed Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park in Chandler, located on the Gila River Indian Community, formerly known as Firebird International Raceway, is hosting the second stop in the 2014 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series from Fri., Feb. 21, through Sun., Feb. 23.

The event will feature thrilling competitions in three of NHRA’s professional categories, including the 8,000-horsepower, nitro-fueled Top Fuel dragster and Funny Car classes, along with the 200-mph Pro Stock category.

Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car) and Erica Enders-Stevens (Pro Stock) are the defending winners of the event, which will be televised on ESPN2 HD. Many other stars of the sport, including 16-time Funny Car world champion John Force, Top Fuel world champ Shawn Langdon, Antron Brown, Courtney Force, Matt Hagan and

AWARD: Chandler resident Raena Sally was recognized by the DAISY Foundation for providing outstanding nursing care. Submitted photo

“We are proud to be among the hospital systems participating in The DAISY Award program,” says Patty White, president and CEO of St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center. “Nurses are heroes every day. It’s important that our nurses know their work is highly valued, and The DAISY Foundation provides another way for us to do that.”

Cruz Pedregon, among others, will be competing at 320 mph trying to bring home another NHRA Wally trophy.

“We are excited for the continued partnership with the NHRA Mello Yello series,” says Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park Track President Dick Hahne. “We want to make Phoenix a top pick for national racing events.”

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park website at racewildhorse.com or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/ WildHorseMotorsportsPark.

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Neighbors

www.SanTanSun.com

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

55

Chandler Light Parade/ Tumbleweed tree lighting The 57th annual Tumbleweed Tree Lighting was a spectacular display for Chandler residents. Created with more than 1,500 tumbleweeds, the tree, which was featured on the “Weekend Update” segment of “Saturday Night Live,” stands more than 35 feet tall. A light parade and music added to the festivities in Downtown Chandler.

STSN photos by Tiera Allen

FLOATING AWAY: A Santa-and reindeer-themed Runway Float by the Chandler Municipal Airport.

AWARD WINNER : Cub Scout Pack 456’s version of Santa’s Workshop, which also won best lit automotive.

REINDEER GAMES: Little dancers from Ocotillo Dance Center perform a reindeer number down the streets of Chandler.

MARCHING INTO THE NIGHT: Covered in Christmas lights, the Chandler High School marching band made its music festive and bright.

ACTIVATE THE NIGHT LIGHTS: City of Chandler Councilmembers’ children turn on the Christmas lights.

CRUISIN’ COOL: Instead of the halls, these decked out cars from Desert Datsun Nissan made folks ooh and ahh.

STEP-IN-TIME: Dancers from the Bracken School of Irish Dance perform a traditional Irish step.

TRADITION: The original Tumbleweed tree made its debut in 1957, making this a 57-year tradition.

HUSKY SPIRIT: Hamilton High School’s mascot, the Husky, accompanied by the spirit squad, get in the spirit of the holidays.