Neighbors
www.SanTanSun.com
April 5 – 18, 2014
49
Neighbors Phoenix Bikefest delivers Hagar in April
When you believe in the promise of later
Neighbors PAGE 53
Spirituality PAGE 65
Chandler Mom Chao brings flavors of Far East of Year shares her story BY BETH LUCAS
Wendy Wise always wanted motherhood. Bright and ambitious, she also had earned a degree in chemical engineering at the young age of 19. A perfect life suddenly shattered when her first child, Brian, was stillborn. The young mother developed posttraumatic stress disorder as a result. Today, the Chandler mother of four additional children ages 5 to 12 shares her story to encourage and inspire other mothers who struggle with the traumatic experience. “You don’t know what you value, until it is taken away from you,” Wise says. “Suddenly after Brian’s death, there was nothing I wanted more than to be a mom. I left behind my career to become
Where to Eat PAGES 75-78
Jeep Girls’ winter adventures in the Rockies BY BRITTANY AND ASHLEY HILL
Going to Colorado? May we suggest Aspen and Denver? Our “only in the mountains” itinerary included a nature-oriented morning snowshoe tour where we donned our Jeremiah Johnson packs and “crampons” to search out bobcats and a rugged, adrenaline-addled and an exhilarating ski instruction in Snowmass piloted by an entertaining, wisecracking skiinstructor named Kermit. More about snow adventures later. SEE JEEP GIRLS PAGE 54
SEE MOM OF YEAR PAGE 52
CHAO URBAN ASIAN EATERY: Guests can expect to be impressed with quality and some whimsical surprises at Chandler’s newest culinary hotspot. Submitted photo BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON
TRANSFORMING FROM PAIN: Chandler mother Wendy Wise shares how she overcame the pain of stillbirth to become an inspiring Mother of the Year. Submitted photo
It’s a fact that Chandler has grown by leaps and bounds in the past decade and so, too has the need for intriguing restaurants. Chandler just hit the culinary jackpot in December when restaurateur David Fliger, from Latitude Eight, brought his own brand of restaurant cool down south and opened up Chao Urban Asian Eatery. Back in October at Latitude Eight and prior to its closing, Fliger did a straw poll. “For the first time, we realized that
90 percent of our customer base lived nowhere near Latitude Eight,” he states. “They lived south of 202, in Gilbert, Ahwatukee and Tempe or Scottsdale. So we thought, if we opened up down here and we do anything even remotely similar, then who’s going to go up to Scottsdale?” Chandler wound up benefiting from that decision and Chao Urban Asian Eatery also boasts Fliger’s mother Nicha Jithchamnock and “Chef Joe” Noichaya serving as the main chefs in the kitchen. SEE CHAO PAGE 51
ON THE SLOPES: The Jeep Girls, Brittany and Ashley Hill, pose outside of The Sky Hotel on their recent travels. Submitted photo
50
Neighbors
April 5 – 18, 2014
www.SanTanSun.com
AMERICAN FURNITURE WAREHOUSE LIFESTYLE FURNITURE
The largest
furniture store in Arizona!
AFW has the
lowest prices anywhere...
anytime!
Easy to get to...
Worth the drive
Just off the 202 on South Power Rd.
(480) 500-4121 LIFESTYLE FURNITURE
www.AFWonline.com
NEW ARIZONA LOCATION 4700 S Power Rd., Gilbert, AZ 85296 (202 (Santan Freeway) and S. Power Rd.)
Neighbors
www.SanTanSun.com
April 5 – 18, 2014
CHAO FROM PAGE 49
It’s a wonderful restaurant that is spurred by excellent service and exceptional Thai food. Noichaya had worked for Jithchamnock at her previous restaurant in Los Angeles. Fliger, realizing Noichaya’s talents and value in creating upscale Thai dishes made sure to bring him on board at Chao, too. “He is just an incredible chef and he’s been working with her (Jitchchamnock) now for 10 years,” Fliger notes. A lot of the signature and favorite dishes from Latitude Eight have taken up residence on Chao’s menu. Chao features a primarily Thai menu. But at Chao, Thai food does not mean run-of-the-mill or eating spicy food until your eyes are watering and you are off whimpering in a corner. This is Thai that combines the finest in flavors, textures and mouth-watering recipes that appeals to everyone in the family. (If you want some five-alarm dishes, they have a few of those, too.) “It’s a small menu,” Fliger says. “It’s probably the smallest Thai menu you’ll ever see. We really focus on what we know how to do best.” Although the majority of the menu features Thai food, it includes some of the more popular Asian dishes that crowds love such as teriyaki chicken and sweet and sour chicken. Appetizers at Chao, which range in price from $6 to $9, include stuffed chicken wings (minced chicken, glass noodles and Thai herbs stuffed inside a chicken wing and served with sriracha
LUNCH, HAPPY HOUR AND DINNER: Stuffed chicken wings served with sriracha aioli and yellow curry crabcakes are two crowd favorites at Chao. Submitted photo
aioli) and satay (marinated chicken or beef with pickled cucumber and homemade peanut sauce). Entrees, priced at $12 to $18, include Thai favorites like pad Thai, mahi mahi kra pow, Andaman duck breast, steak pad kee mao and seafood green curry (a signature dish). Be sure not to miss the pineapple fried rice as it’s one of the most popular menu items. Best of all, the menu is incredibly affordable, especially for the lunch crowd and at any given time, you can find families, parties and business people dining at Chao. “Our whole goal with building this place was that we really wanted to build a restaurant that had that whole urban
atmosphere,” Fliger says. “I told my architects and designers the whole time, ‘Think Arcadia, not Scottsdale.’” Chao simply appeals to everyone and Fliger loves how the entire Chandler business community supports each other and he’s proud to be a part of that. Chao seats well over 200 guests and has a massive patio that, weather permitting, opens up to the inside to make a very fun and friendly atmosphere. Adding to the appeal of the physical space at Chao is the private dining room. When not being used as a private dining room, it’s the perfect place for families or larger groups. For those that want
51
to reserve the 22-plus seating room, it is able to be closed off via large glass doors and additional privacy curtains. The room also boasts flat screens, all the technology needed to show videos, slide presentations and share computer files with a large group. Call ahead to reserve the private room. “Our happy hour is amazing,” gushes Fliger about specials from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Sunday. Signature appetizer specials are available, plus $5 wines by the glass, $5 Chao signature cocktails (all of which utilize premium liquors) and $3 pint beers. Look for live music coming soon, too. There is not really another restaurant in Chandler quite like Chao. The restaurant itself is a hip, urban hangout that oozes class, comfort and a touch of whimsy. The use of solid colors, patina metals, a lot of wood and strategically placed décor is a breath of fresh air on the restaurant scene. The seamless indoor/outdoor feel via large glass doors is a huge bonus and keeps the entire restaurant open and full of light. “A lot of our customers used to drive into Scottsdale to go to Latitude Eight and now they can come here,” Fliger explains. “It’s convenient to just about any place in the East Valley and Scottsdale.” Stop in to experience exceptional service at a family-owned and -operated restaurant that is changing the Thai food game. Chao Urban Asian Eatery is located at 1890 W. Germann Rd., Suite 1 (at Dobson Road). Call (480) 855-0522 or visit www.chaochandler.com.
OFFERING PERSONALIZED
medicalcare family FOR THE WHOLE
with Chandler’s Premier Board Certified Family Medicine Physician
No doctor? New patients welcome! No insurance? No problem. Same day appointments available! • Comprehensive healthcare for infants & children • Immunizations and vaccines • On-site blood draws • Sports and athletics physicals Now offering • Women’s health extended • Aesthetic services: Botox® hours! • Adult wellness • Acute and chronic care
Gil M. Holland, MD, FAAFP Laura Leal, FPN-BC
480-814-1100 www.ocotillofamilymedicine.com
3200 S. Alma School Road, #204 Chandler, AZ 85248
Our clinic is open late!
52
April 5 – 18, 2014
a full-time mom.” Wise was named Arizona 2014 Mother of Merit, one of seven East Valley women honored for remarkable achievements recently by the American Mothers organization that has been recognizing the importance of mothers nationwide since 1935. Arizona’s first Mother of the Year was named in 1947. “Being a mom is one of the most thankless and the most rewarding jobs ever,” Wise explains. “No one will ever appreciate, including me (once), what it takes to be a mom, until they are a parent themselves. “Having PTSD also changed my opinion of motherhood. While others tried to tell me to leave my husband and children to
Neighbors focus on myself, I knew that would not make me happy in the long run. I learned my place was as their mother and that I could find healing with my family.” Today being a mother is Wise’s most rewarding job, she says. “And I love the hugs and smiles of my kids. I love the history I am making with Kevin, my husband. While modest about the honor, she adds that the Mother of the Year honors are an important highlight of the selfless hard work that matriarchs take on for the future. “I think it is hard to say we value one mother over another. All are important, and all of us mothers are doing what we can to help the next generation,” she
explains. “I also see the benefit of providing an example of what ‘American Mothers’ value, as an example to the world. I am happy to be an example and try to inspire others, just as there have been so many mothers who have inspired me.” She offers homemakers an important piece of advice: “We must defend motherhood and womanhood, especially with today’s moral decay. We do that by first respecting our roles as mothers. We should never dismissively introduce ourselves as ‘I’m just a mom,’ but ‘I am a mother!’ “Whereas my teenage years were focused on degrees and careers, motherhood has taught me what is truly important in life. Now I see that we, as mothers, are creating legacies that will be remembered and felt for generations. Who will remember the CEOs of the Fortune 500 companies 50 years from now? We surely will remember our mothers and grandmothers.”
Mothers of the Year She will join Lila Shoemaker of Mesa, named 2014 Mother of the Year, and other honorees in volunteer activities this year to give back to the community. Shoemaker always had a big passion for music and performance, but she had an even bigger passion for the most important role of her life: mother. The Mesa mother of six embraced her passion for musical performance, and taught her children everything she knew. “I could’ve gone on to sing on Broadway,” Shoemaker says. “Or teach in
www.SanTanSun.com
MOTHERS OF MERIT: (From left to right) Wendy Wise of Chandler, and Leah Davis of Gilbert are Arizona’s 2014 Merit Mothers, and Lori Roberts of Mesa is Arizona’s 2014 Mother of Achievement. Submitted photo
high school. But I chose to be a mom, so I put all my talents, all my energies and all of my skills into raising my children. As a result, they all sing, play and instrument, three of them know American sign language.” Lori Roberts of Mesa was named Arizona’s 2014 Mother of Achievement, a recognition of the importance for mothers to achieve their own dreams and be role models for their children. “Learning has always been hard for me. I have health challenges and I have had to overcome learning disabilities, one being ADHD,” Roberts explains. But that didn’t stop her from earning three degrees as she raised her children and taught them the importance of hard work and independence. “I want women everywhere to know that their time is now, how they can get over their fears and struggles as I did.” Jill Geigle of Gilbert is Arizona’s 2014
Neighbors
www.SanTanSun.com Young Mother of the Year. Mother of seven, she and her husband Jeremy Geigle started the Arizona Family Council, which helps families advocating Internet safety education. Jill also served on the founding board for the Mesa Storytelling Festival. Tessy Hoffman of Mesa is honored as 2014 Mother of Children with Special Needs. Her husband, Rodney, as well as her two children, ages 21 and 19, were diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Her children unable to walk or talk and who are fed through a feeding tube have a mother who “cheerfully tends to her family’s physical as well as emotional needs.” Blindness didn’t hold back Aubrey Kleinschmidt of Mesa, who was honored as the 2014 Mother of the Year with Special Needs. Mother of four, Kleinschmidt lost sight in one eye at 4 days old, and in the other in 2010. She gave birth to two of her youngest after losing her sight completely, and continues to “stay on top of the myriad details sighted moms have to contend with.” Leah Davis of Gilbert was also named Arizona 2014 Mother of Merit. She is a mother of five, including two sets of twins, and states in her submitted bio that “my children have taught me patience, sacrifice, unconditional love and have filled my heart with so much joy.” Beth Lucas is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at news@santansun.com.
April 5 – 18, 2014
53
Phoenix Bikefest delivers Hagar in April Phoenix Bikefest, a three-day event at Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, is well underway and set to bring rocker Sammy Hagar at 5 p.m. Saturday, April 5. The official post party on Saturday night includes a performance by Metalhead at the Ovations LIVE! Showroom at Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino. The party is in walking distance from the Phoenix Bikefest site, and free to Hagar concert ticketholders. R Entertainment Co., in conjunction with area Harley-Davidson Dealers, will deliver the rockin’ concert entertainment along with the first Phoenix Bikefest “Ride through Experience,” a gateway entry designed to create a parade of arriving bikes, which onlookers can enjoy throughout the day. Phoenix Bikefest is free and is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. The only ticketed portion of the three-day event is the evening concerts. Concert tickets range from $25 general admission (standing) to reserved seating from $50 to $75. Tickets can be purchased by visiting, www.phoenixbikefest. com or by phone at (866) 977-6849. A $5 discount is available on general admission tickets only when fans visit participating Valley Harley-Davidson dealers. A discount of $5 is also available at Wild Horse Pass Casino box office. Phoenix Bikefest campsites are available for fans at Wild Horse Pass Motor Sports Park, which is adjacent to the Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino. Reservations can be made at www.phoenixbikefest.com. “Phoenix Bikefest promises to be a fantastic biker experience free to the public,
and transformed into a rockin’ concert venue in the evening,” says Barry Caraway, Phoenix Bikefest coordinator, and publisher of cyclerides.com. “Plus with the optimum location of the new Festival Park at Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, Phoenix Bikefest delivers the makings of one fantastic weekend.” Phoenix Bikefest is presented by Valley Harley-Davidson dealers including Arrowhead Harley-Davidson, Buddy Stubbs HarleyDavidson, Chandler Harley-Davidson, Chester’s Harley-Davison, Superstition HarleyDavidson and RideNow Powersports, along with Caraway. Phoenix Bikefest also features participants:
Indian Motorcycle, BMW, Aprilia, Ducati, KTM, Moto Guzzi, Triumph, Can Am, Polaris, Suzuki, Yamaha and Spyder. Guests are welcome to test ride the latest and greatest in the motorcycle industry, including the new 2014 Harley-Davidson lineup and the 2014 Can-Am Sypder RT. Guests can stroll and enjoy the event grounds as well as the nearby 100,0000 square foot Wild Horse Pass Casino. Among weekend highlights are food, drink, vendors of all kinds, a Bike Show and live concert entertainment. For information visit www.phoenixbikefest. com. Also, like Phoenix Bikefest on Facebook, www.facebook.com/phoenixbikefest.
Expires 4-15-2014
IMMEDIATE MEDICAL | PAIN MANAGEMENT | MOST MAJOR PLANS ACCEPTED | NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
Don’t Let Chronic Pain Slow You Down. UCR Health Centers offers a variety of pain management treatments to get you back to enjoying an active, healthy life. We’re dedicated to working with you to understand the source of your pain. Managing your pain is not a hopeless, impossible journey – just as long as • Medication Management you have the right physicians • Neck & Back Pain • Headaches by your side.
IMMEDIATE MEDICAL • PAIN MANAGEMENT
• Arthritic Pain • Post-Surgical Pain • Knee Pain • Sciatica • Joint Pain • Failed Back Surgery • Medical Weight Loss
2745 S. Alma School Road • Chandler Located 1/2 block north of Queen Creek on Alma School — just north of Applebees
480-855-7585
Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Closed Sunday
www.ucrhealthcenters.com
54
Neighbors
April 5 – 18, 2014
JEEP GIRLS FROM PAGE 49
We spent our first night at the elegant, yet character-driven Hotel Jerome, a premier retreat. It recently underwent a massive renovation. With a nod to a rustic past, each of the 94 rooms and lobby has been elevated to contemporary cowboy chic. Relevant accessories include cashmere curtains, leather bedframes and a personal favorite—in-room yoga mats. The Hotel Jerome has been a central part of Aspen dating back more than 120 years when silver prospecting defined upper Roaring Fork Valley. Aspen mines produced nearly $100 million in silver ore, one of the world’s richest lodes. If Ralph and Ricky Lauren sought to rendezvous with James Bond, the Hotel Jerome’s new Living Room would be the appropriate scene for the awaiting martini and local microbrew. Turning a corner, another haunt, the hotel’s favored-by-locals (including the late eccentric author Hunter S. Thompson) J-Bar, retains the most original character. The longstanding Chippendale bar is still intact, patina, and possibly the residual of a good old rumble included. The next morning we sat down in the Hotel Jerome’s formal dining room, the Prospect restaurant. The abundant light in the warm-toned dining area reflecting from the crystal on the walls and tables merited a good hearty breakfast prior to outdoor adventures. Seating at Prospect is available for all three main meals. The waiter arrived with a surprise of warm biscuits and raspberry
STRIKE A POSE: The Jeep Girls, Ashley and Brittany Hill, show off their animal print robes at the Hotel Monaco in Denver. Submitted photo
preserve, as we sipped coffee against the plush couch pillows. Executive Chef Rob Zak prepared a very thoughtful and regional ingredient-driven menu. Sharing pancakes drizzled in blueberry-orange compote and a scramble of thickly sliced ham, white mushroom and Chevre cheese, we gingerly ate our rich meal, knowing we were venturing to higher ground shortly. After breakfast, we jumped in the Wrangler and headed to Ajax Mountain to meet with our Aspen Center for Environmental Studies snowshoeing naturalist, Courtland. She took us on a two-hour trek weaving through the fir and spruce forests pointing out animal tracks. We were welcomed the following evening with a dusting of fresh snow! Though outside the world transformed
New to Medicare? Need Advice? Compare Plans! Medicare Advantage Medicare Supplements
www.SanTanSun.com
into a postcard, we looked a little snowed on as we approached the lobby of our new night home—the whimsical Sky Hotel. We arrived just in time to enjoy the hosted “altitude adjustment” wine reception. The lobby itself is much to take in. As a Kimpton property, the boutique Sky Hotel enjoys a theme unique to its environment. Its location is just steps from the main lift of Aspen’s Ajax Mountain. The furniture is uniquely playful as well, with “Alice in Wonderland,” largerthan-life wingback chairs featuring textile graffiti of runs of Ajax Mountain. The art in the lobby and lounge is a rotating display of the intensifying Aspen art scene. Guests are encouraged to boldly sport their animal print robes (as provided in each guest’s room) to join the around the low white leather sofas or lacquered game table for hosted hot toddies, wine and hors d’oeuvres hour nightly. Our final must-do was heavenly. Early in the morning, we rode the lift above an ethereal Snowmass Mountain to begin our ski lesson. We met Ben, who is a true existentialist, who not only fitted us for equipment, but shared his perspectives on life as only an Aspenite may do. “Do you want to go fast, or do you want to go really fast?” Kermit, our eccentric ski instructor asked of us. We agreed that we wanted to go just fast. Kermit showed us how to properly traverse across the mountain, but most importantly how to plan our lines. We felt as if we were starring in a Warren
Miller film. Aspen is a truly amazing place. Second to none, there are always new discoveries to be had. As the sun sets on the mountains, we know that they will continue to call us back once again. We left the Rockies satisfied, as another journey brought forth new friends and experiences. The next week we set our sights on Denver. Just as the snow began to reach the city, we tucked the Wrangler away for the evening and scooted into the Hotel Monaco, another Kimpton property. We were sure to grab our animal robes for another great, hosted wine and hors d’ouvres hour. We explored Eldora resort the next day. The winding roads provided for a myriad of terrain to travel through. That evening, we enjoyed the Oxford Hotel, Denver’s first hotel. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it boasts a boutique feel. Its 1891 origins have allowed for 80 uniquely decorated guest rooms and an original Remington. The bones of this grand hotel do still show signs of its original “city within a city” construction. Upon its opening, the Oxford Hotel hosted a barbershop, library, pharmacy, Western Union office, stables and saloon. In 2014, the impressive urban full-service gym offers an award-winning yoga program. At last we headed toward Boulder. A final must-do is the Celestial Seasonings Tour just down the road. It was unexpectedly wonderful. Though this location is mostly packaging, it is also the home of the mixing of its teas.
curb appeal
INCREASE YOUR WITH NEW ROCK
www.pioneersand.com
Medicare Rx Special Need Plans
ALAN BEYERLE INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.
480-820-2797 Serving the Valley Since 1996
Alan Beyerle
INDEPENDENT BROKER AUTHORIZED TO SELL MOST MAJOR MEDICARE INSURANCE PLANS
2370 W. Ray Road, #1, Chandler, AZ 85224 • myazagent@msn.com
25% off
Tumbled Pavers All colors. Restrictions apply. See sales associate for details. With coupon. Limited time offer.
25% off All Boulders
Pit run and surface select. Restrictions apply. See sales associate for details. With coupon. Limited time offer.
25% off Bagged Decorative Glass All colors. Restrictions apply. See sales associate for details. With coupon. Limited time offer.
Neighbors
www.SanTanSun.com Our favorite stop was the mint room, which is kept separate from the other leaves because of its potency. In an airtight vault, the mint overpowers the sinuses and senses. It’s overwhelming and worth the experience. There is no way words can aptly describe the sensation of a mint overload. Luckily at Celestial Seasonings, one can endure the challenge free of charge! Our final evening was spent in the St. Julien Hotel in Boulder. It was noted that we were sleeping in Kevin Costner’s favored room. The beds provided a much-needed sanctuary after three days of adventure. Every room in this contemporary hotel was beautiful, however. The live music in the lobby provided a lively atmosphere. It’s inevitable that most of us across the United States will look back upon this winter with memories of cold weather, delayed travel plans and just another indicator that the world around us appears to be changing rapidly. But as the road winds before us, we are reminded to tread lightly and carry on! Sisters Ashley and Brittany Hill are Chandler residents who enjoy traveling and exploring the open roads across America. The Hill sisters moved to Chandler a decade ago, where Ashley attended Hamilton High School. Both of the girls are ASU alumni and are active community members. For more of Ashley and Brittany Hill’s travels across America, follow the The Jeep Girls adventures via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (at @AmericanLegendTour).
April 5 – 18, 2014
55
Lasorda helps raise funds for Seton Catholic Prep BY MAX KRAUST
Two-time World Series champion and baseball hall of famer Tommy Lasorda bleeds Dodger blue, but for one night, he sported Seton Catholic Preparatory High School red and gold. Lasorda, known for his days as the legendary manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, provided many laughs and a motivational speech in front of a full auditorium at the high school to raise funds for the Seton Catholic Sentinel Booster Club. “Everybody in this country, from the president of the United States on down to the lowest jobs, at some time in their life they needed to be motivated because they thought they were doing their best, but in reality they weren’t,” Lasorda says. “Motivation is very important.” Lasorda is in his 64th year with the Dodgers and appears at more than 150 speaking engagements for charities, private groups and military personnel each year. “He is certainly one of a kind. They never made anybody like Tommy,” says Logan White, Dodgers vice president, amateur scouting. “He is the most fierce, competitive person I know. He is also the most loving person I’ve ever known. Tommy does so much good for so many people.” White’s son, Logan Jr., attends Seton and he was able to bring Lasorda to the school to motivate and inspire the current, future and former Sentinels.
MOTIVATING: Baseball legend Tommy Lasorda delivers a motivational speech to a crowd at Seton Catholic Preparatory High School to raise funds for their athletic programs. Submitted photo
“I think motivation is very important and that’s what I deal in a lot,” Lasorda says. “Make them believe in themselves and make them understand what it’s going to take to be successful. If they listen, they’ll make it.” Creating better athletes is something that always brings joy to Lasorda. “It always gave me a great deal of pleasure to make players better than they were,” Lasorda says. “Let them know, gain confidence and get them to play for the name on the front of their shirt, not the back of their shirt.”
Lasorda’s speech did not only accommodate athletes, but also provided inspiration to help others through his personal stories. “There are times when we have to do whatever we can to help and help people who are less fortunate than we are,” Lasorda says. During his speech, Lasorda also announced that he would be donating $1,000 to the school to go along with the funds collected for the Sentinel booster club from the event. “We’ve been blessed to be able to support Seton athletics and all of its student athletes,” says Seton Catholic Sentinels Booster Club President Bill Mager. “It’s connections and memories like this that make Seton Catholic Prep a great place to be.” The booster club has been able to provide the athletic programs with safety improvements, such as refurbishing the weight room, and better ways to accommodate fans and athletes, such as adding cooling fans in the gymnasium, through their recent fundraising efforts. Though Lasorda was spending most of the evening helping others, he ended his speech asking for some help of his own. “If you have any compassion in your heart, you will say a prayer for Tommy and the Dodgers tonight.” Max Kraust is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. He can be reached at max@santansun.com.
Thursday, April 24th
Is Your Health at Risk? Heart Disease, Stroke, Cancer Learn if you are at risk with these RightPath Health Screening Options:
CARDIOVASCULAR SCREENINGS
ABDOMINAL ULTRASOUND SCREENINGS
Heart Ultrasound Atrial Fibrillation Stroke Screen (Carotid Artery Ultrasound) Thyroid Ultrasound Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Liver Kidney Gallbladder Pancreas Spleen Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
ALL 11 SCREENINGS FOR ONLY
$200 PLUS...Blood Pressure, Pulse and Blood Oxygen Saturation Level are included
FREE with all health screenings! —APPOINTMENT REQUIRED—
602-254-7130 www.cathedralhealthservices.org/screenings.htm
AT RISEN SAVIOR LUTHERAN CHURCH: 23914 S. ALMA SCHOOL ROAD, CHANDLER
56
Neighbors
April 5 – 18, 2014
Emshoff parlays longtime love of badminton into coaching career BY KATHRYN BECK
Chandler High School badminton coach Lois Emshoff has had a longtime passion for sports, starting with her fourth-grade year at Dysart Elementary School. “I played all four sports that were offered and since then have never looked back,� Emshoff says. She has remained involved in sports, coaching several sports, including badminton, a game she played in high school and college. Spanning 40 years, Emshoff’s coaching resume includes a six-year stint with the girls’ badminton program at Dysart High School, and 31 years at CHS. In February, Emshoff was recognized for her long career and was inducted into the Chandler Sports Hall of Fame. “The sport is different,� says Dave Shapiro, former CHS athletic director. “She always has to teach kids about the sport because it’s not as popular in the United States as it is in Europe.� Emshoff also taught physical education and says she would incorporate badminton in her freshman PE classes. “Her knowledge of the sport and her enthusiasm for it has helped make the program different from other schools,� Shapiro says. When Emshoff began coaching badminton at CHS, she dealt with issues that plagued girls’ sports in the early ‘70s and ‘80s. “When I was hired at Chandler High, at the time tennis was the only sport for girls,� Emshoff says. “So the athletic director Al Howell wanted me to take over the tennis program and start the badminton program.� She was instrumental in getting equal opportunities for girls’ athletics in the 1980s. Emshoff says that after Howell left the school,
www.SanTanSun.com
Cruise-In for Veterans Car and Motorcycle Show
she lost the use of the wrestling room for spectators and the number of courts needed for competitions. “I had only six courts instead of eight so our home matches took longer to play and you really need eight for tournaments,â€? she says. Emshoff says she appealed the decision, which was later denied, so she ďŹ led a Title IX grievance. That resulted in an increased awareness of the discrepancies in other sports. “There was a new awareness of what was lacking in girls sports and it helped other sports as well,â€? Emshoff says. Although she recently retired from teaching, Emshoff explains she still enjoys coaching and hopes players can take away a lot from having been a part of the program. Audra Owens, who played three years for Emshoff at CHS, says Emshoff held her players to high standards. “She pushed us pretty hard,â€? Owens says. “In hindsight, it impressed me because she took girls who weren’t exactly volleyball or basketball players and turned them into athletes and many of them into regional or state champs.â€? With four state championships and eight regional titles at CHS, Emshoff says she was honored to be inducted into the Chandler Sports Hall of Fame. “It meant a lot to me,â€? she says. “All my life I felt like this was what I had to do and ďŹ ght for equality so to be recognized was very humbling.â€? Kathryn Beck is a student at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University. She can be reached at news@santansun.com.
Plans for the American Legion Post 97, in San Tan Valley, have been announced for a Cruise-In for the Veterans Car and Motorcycle Show to be held Saturday, April 26, at the Olive Mill, 25062 S. Meridian Rd., Queen Creek. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with trophies awarded at 2 p.m. Special guests and local personalities are expected. Classic, custom, street rod, muscle car and truck vehicles and motorcycles will be featured. The admission is free. Tickets are available for rafe prizes. The event will feature vendors, live music, food and drink, free wine tasting and more. Parking is free. Trophies will be awarded by peers for ďŹ rst, second and third place in 13 categories, which include motorcycle and specialty military transportation. The entry fee is $25 for those who preregister. It includes a free dash plaque and show T-shirt. Onsite entries are $30 with a dash plaque and T-shirt available upon purchase. Sponsorships including Title Sponsor, trophy sponsors and vendor booths are available on a ďŹ rst-come basis. Only one vendor per company, brand, is allowed and no food vendors can participate. This is a family event to support not only American Legion Post 97, but also San Tan Youth Programs,
including six American Legion Baseball teams the post sponsors, as well as other programs for veterans, their families, and the community at large. American Legion Baseball works with 14 to 19 year olds from Poston Butte, Combs, San Tan Foothills, and other high schools in Pinal County to provide leadership skills and activities during the summer months. “The youth of our generation must be supported and provided with programs that will encourage teamwork, instill conďŹ dence, and provide activities to keep them focused,â€? Commander of Post 97 Alan Pease says. He hopes to build a community center in San Tan Valley through a foundation being formed by Post 97. All funds derived from this event go directly to ongoing or new programs for veterans and the community. For information on registering your vehicles, sponsorships and vendor booths, contact Jeffrey A. Kramer at (480) 250-4445 or marketingpro@cox.net.
N O N - S U R G I C A L T R E AT M E N T O F VA R I C O S E A N D S P I D E R V E I N S
Love your legs... Again! Stunning Results • Non-surgical laser procedure • Minimal recovery time • Done in the office by a Physician • Over 10,000 patients treated • Covered by most insurance and Medicare
Free
Dr. Paul Sos, M.D. Dr. John Opie, M.D. Dr. Kenneth Seifert, M.D
Screenings Available!
50% OFF Cosmetic Sclerotherapy New Patients Only. (Reg. $400) With coupon only. Limited time. Expires 4-30-2014
480-899-8930 • 485 S. Dobson Rd., Ste. 103, Chandler • www.optimaveincare.com • 3 Locations: Chandler, Phoenix, Scottsdale
$
3
Spay Neuter Clinic
OFF
—Any Surgery— With coupon only. Valid only at Chandler location. Expires 4-30-2014
AFFORDABLE VETERINARY CARE BY DR. SARA KOEHN
Family owned and operated since 1981
Services by Appointment: Spay and Neuter, Vaccinations, Dental Cleaning, Microchipping, Leukemia Testing, Heartworm Testing and Preventative $28 .......Cat Neuter $47 .......Cat Spay $59 .......Dog Neuter (<40 lbs.) $81 .......Dog Neuter (40 - 70 lbs.) $71 .......Dog Spay (<40 lbs.) $103 .....Dog Neuter (40 - 70 lbs.) Extra charges may apply to heat, pregnancy, retained testicles and dogs over 70 lbs.
2040 S. Alma School Rd., Ste. 25 â&#x20AC;˘ Chandler SW CORNER OF ALMA SCHOOL & GERMANN, NEXT TO FRYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S
480-814-1008
LOWEST PRICES, LARGEST SELECTION! HUGE SELECTION OF OVERSIZED POTTERY! PET FRIENDLY! â&#x20AC;&#x201D; C L O S E D T U E S D AY S â&#x20AC;&#x201D;
480-802-1309
480-802-1309
Southern Chandler
Showroom
23843 S. Cooper Rd.
19051 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler
1/4 Mile S. of Chandler Heights Rd.
1/4 Mile S. of Germann on the East side
Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. - 5p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
â&#x20AC;˘ Fountains â&#x20AC;˘ Benches â&#x20AC;˘ Bird Baths â&#x20AC;˘ Ceramics â&#x20AC;˘ Stoneware â&#x20AC;˘ Wrought Iron â&#x20AC;˘ Oversized Pottery â&#x20AC;˘ Metal Wall Decor â&#x20AC;˘ Indoor/Outdoor Decor â&#x20AC;˘ Much More!
Neighbors
www.SanTanSun.com
CGCC expands to fourth location with the Communiversity Communiversity at Queen Creek at Ellsworth and Ocotillo roads is the fourth location for Chandler-Gilbert Community College. Students can enroll, receive advisement, register for classes at any of the locations, as well as take classes taught at the downtown location. “The Communiversity at Queen Creek is a wonderful way to expand the educational opportunities available at Chandler-Gilbert Community College to downtown Queen Creek,” says Chandler-Gilbert Community College President Linda Lujan. “Alongside
our comprehensive Williams Campus at the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, we’re looking forward to helping Queen Creek residents succeed in reaching their individual higher educational goals.” The Communiversity at Queen Creek campus is a unique civil and educational partnership offering students a variety of academic services and programs in one convenient location. For more information and to register for classes, visit www.cgc.edu/communiversity or call (480) 384-9333.
VFW Post 8053 distributes poppies Twenty-eight members of the VFW Post 8053 and its auxiliary recently distributed poppies at seven locations in Chandler. Through the generosity of local retailers, ACE Hardware, Bashas’, Fry’s, Walgreens and Sun Lakes Country Club, members were able to give shoppers a poppy to wear in honor of all American veterans. The poppy is the official memorial flower of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Today, VFW Buddy Poppies are still assembled by disabled and needy veterans in VA hospitals. The VFW/Auxiliary does not charge for poppies. Any donations received goes only to a relief fund, which helps veterans in need.
3011 S. Lindsay Rd. Suite 105 Gilbert, AZ 85295 P: (480) 699-5536 F: (480) 699-9283 www.LifetimeHeart.com
E. Williams Field Rd.
POPPIES: Commander of VFW Post 8053 Neal Peer distributes poppies to Walgreen shoppers Don and Janet Abell. Submitted photo
Board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Interventional Cardiology, Nuclear Cardiology, Echocardiography & Cardiac CT Focus on prevention and health maintenance Evidence based treatment at a level of care that exceeds expectations
S. Val Vista Dr.
S. Lindsay Rd.
S. Gilbert Rd.
Faisal Bahadur, MD
E. Pecos Rd.
Loop 202
Gautam Kedia, MD
Serving the Southeast Valley! Same day appointments available
Bashar Markabawi, MD
April 5 – 18, 2014
57
SanTan Brewing Co.’s Mr. Pineapple returns this April through September SanTan Brewing Co. is bringing back its award-winning Mr. Pineapple Wheat Beer. Originally created as a signature craft beer for SanTan Brewing Co.’s
annual Luau celebration, Mr. Pineapple’s popularity among craft beer lovers grew rapidly in his first few years of production. To meet the increasing demand, SanTan began canning Mr. Pineapple in 2013—making it easily portable and ready for summertime cookouts, pool parties, beach days and outdoor adventures. Winner of the silver medal at the Great American Beer Festival competition, Mr. Pineapple is a refreshing and fruity traditional German Wheat Ale using 2-Row, white wheat, caramel and Munich malt. Fresh pineapple is added during the primary fermentation then crushed and cooled to allow the natural flavors to infuse the traditional wheat beer for a refreshing twist. Mr. Pineapple will be available in cans and on tap throughout Arizona, Southern California and Texas in April through September. SanTan Brewing Co. is Arizona’s only craft brewery to offer year-round canned seasonal beers. To find a pint or can of Mr. Pineapple Wheat Beer near you, visit www.santanbrewing.com/findsantan-on-tap.
58
Neighbors
April 5 – 18, 2014
www.SanTanSun.com
Chandler National Little League Opening Day With more than 3,000 people in attendance, the Chandler National Little League celebrated its Opening Day in fine form. Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and legendary Diamondback player Luis Gonzalez spoke to the the little leaguers to motivate them to do their best. STSN photos by Nick Bartlett
STANDING ROOM ONLY: The stands were filled with people for this event.
SPARKY:The Bears are excited for the day and to get their picture taken with Sparky.
TAKING CUTS: Dylan concentrates on hitting the ball in the first game of the season.
GONZO: Father and son Todd and Matthew Edge get their picture taken with Luis “Gonzo” Gonzalez.
SHAVED ICE: Payton chooses his flavor at the shaved ice truck.
CARPET
The only carpet company that cleans in 3 stages! With no hidden costs!
3 Areas Cleaned
7495
$
CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CARE
First we pre-spray, then we power scrub and steam clean! Pet Treatment and Scotchgard™ extra. $7 trip charge. Any room up to 200 sq. feet. Min. 3 areas. With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or prior services.
We clean your carpets professionally at temperatures over 230 degrees, with truck-mounted equipment. We move light furniture!
STAGE 1
STAGE 2
STAGE 3
First we pre-spray!
Then, we power scrub to loosen the dirt and spots
Finally, we steam clean your carpets, all for one low price!
480-304-1000
RESERVATIONS: 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. • 7 Days-A-Week Same day appointments available.
If we try to change the price when we arrive ... Kick us out of your house!
LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED
Free Estimates Valleywide!
TILE CLEANING ¢
35
Sq. Ft.
With soap-free detergent Includes scrubbing —Ceramics only— Sealer available. $7 trip charge. Not valid with other offers or prior services.
CARPET
CARPET
5 Areas Cleaned
7 Areas Cleaned
11495
$
16495
$
First we pre-spray, then we power scrub and steam clean!
First we pre-spray, then we power scrub and steam clean!
Pet Treatment and Scotchgard™ extra. $7 trip charge. Any room up to 200 sq. feet. Min. 5 areas. With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or prior services.
Pet Treatment and Scotchgard™ extra. $7 trip charge. Any room up to 200 sq. feet. Min. 7 areas. With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or prior services.