SanTan Sun News - Aug. 6, 2016 by Times Media Group

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

New public information officer at Chandler PD has worn many hats way for better communication and smoother Sgt. Daniel Mejia is the new public information relationships between the department and the officer of the Chandler Police Department. community. It’s a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week However, he’s no stranger to Chandler residents position that the two will share. or even to the region’s media outlets. “I think I’m most proud about all the Since his move to Chandler Police Department community outreach that we do,” said Mejia, in 2001 from a law enforcement career that began in who has volunteered for the Chandler’s Boys & Nogales in 1995, the fluent Spanish speaker has worked Girls Clubs for 10 years and is a board member. “I in many aspects of the department’s operations. liked the interaction because you get to meet a They include patrolling; Spanish translation; lot of people in the community.” liaising with the Mexican Consulate; criminal, Mejia said that the fulltime role of a public narcotics and property crime investigation; being information officer is “a lot of responsibility.” So a school resource officer; crisis negotiator; and far, he said, “it’s been a good partnership.” community outreach, including handling media “When you work with media outlets, there’s requests, in myriad ways. a mutual trust and respect there where there’s a In Nogales, Mejia was a deputy sheriff and flow of information on both ways,” he said. “I see worked as a SWAT team member, a field training the value in the partnership with the media in officer and also handled DUI enforcement. terms of getting our information out to, with the “One of the essential things of being an effective assistance of media.” PIO is having the knowledge and the experience Similar to police departments around the to talk about all facets of police work,” Detective country, Chandler PD has established several Sgt. Daniel Mejia has worked with the local media in Chandler to disseminate Seth Tyler said. “It brings a lot. Whether we’re programs that show its human side. information. “It’s been a good partnership,” he said. investigating a burglary, a fatal crash, homicide, a The Senior Lockbox Program provides a Mejia, who has received training in public relations, will lockbox for emergency personnel to gain access to the drug operation, anything like that, it’s really important to work alongside Tyler to answer media requests, organize be able to have a comfort level to be able to talk about see MEJIA page 2 and participate in outreach events, and generally pave the stuff like that.”

BY SRIANTHI PERERA

Senior is Wilkes’ oldest grad BY SHELLEY RIDENOUR

During his visit to the MLB All-Star Game at Petco Park in San Diego, Nick Brueser hung out with Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman Paul Goldschmidt. Photo courtesy Arizona Diamondbacks Twitter page.

Hamilton first baseman wins Junior Home Run Derby BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Hamilton High School senior Nick Brueser has shown America just how well he can hit the ball. The Huskies’ 6-foot 3-inch first baseman won the Junior Home Run Derby

and clips of it were shown on television during the All-Star Game at Petco Park in San Diego in mid-July. “It was an awesome experience,” Nick see BRUESER page 2

In her 91 years, Anna Arnett has learned and taught many lessons, some a bit cliche, others not. Her latest? It’s never too late to learn. Arnett, a longtime Chandler resident, received a master’s degree in creative writing—her second master’s—from Wilkes University in June. She’s the oldest person to ever receive a degree from Wilkes, university officials said. Wilkes was established 83 years ago in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, and opened a campus in Mesa in 2013. “I never regretted a second,” Arnett said of her Wilkes experience. “I really loved it. For one thing, what can be better than writing about your parents and telling the lay of the land where they lived?” Arnett wrote a memoir for her creative thesis. “Forever Endeavor” is the story of her parents’ lives. She relied heavily on a journal left by her mother. “My mother was a genealogist from the word go,” Arnett said. She praised her mother’s writing in that journal, crediting it for making it easier to write her thesis.

She plans to self-publish the memoir. But it won’t be her first published book. Her first was “Lolly’s Yarns: My Life as I Have Chosen to Live It.” It focused on her husband, Charles, and their seven children. “Just a Woman: Romping through Poetry with Anna Laurente Arnett,” was her second. She and her son, David, who lives in Mesa, have a “fledgling publishing company,” which Arnett says makes it fairly easy to publish her books. She says she’s still trying to figure out what to do with that business. Some might think at age 91, with three college degrees and her children all grown, she’d relax. But, that’s not the case. Arnett says she’ll soon be back at Wilkes. “I’ve already signed up for my next class.” Arnett’s original college career started and stopped multiple times. She attended Utah State University during the 1944-45 school year, but stopped college after her wedding in Mesa to Charles Arnett on June 15, 1945. Charles joined the Army Air Forces

F E AT U R E STO R I E S

Check out our Family Fun Section! You will not want to miss any of the fun events listed on Family Fun calendar this month.

Sgt. Daniel Mejia Promotion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . community . . . . . . . Page 1 AT&T enhances, expands towers in East Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . business . . . . . . . . . . Page 21 Chandler publisher shines a light on literacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . youth . . . . . . . . . . . Page 32 Chandler resident brings new soccer team to East Valley . . . neighbors . . . . . . . . Page 45 Christian music fills the Valley air this August . . . . . . . . . . . . . arts . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 61

SANTAN FAMILY FUN .......................Center Section

see ANNA page 4

More Community . . . . . . 1-20 Business . . . . . . . . 21-26 Youth . . . . . . . . . . 27-34 Opinion . . . . . . . . 35-36 Neighbors . . . . . . 45-60 Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . 61-68 Spirituality . . . . . 69-71 Directory . . . . . . . 72-73 Classifieds . . . . . . 74-75 Where to Eat . . . 76-78

Community

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

BRUESER from page 1

Sgt. Daniel Mejia, shown in Ocotillo, is the new public face of the Chandler Police Department. MEJIA from page 1

home of a senior, allowing welfare checks on a senior who lives alone. “Coffee with A Cop” enables the public to meet police officers in a cafe to discuss topics of interest and learn more about each other over a cup of coffee. “Pizza with A Cop” is focused on the autism and Down syndrome community and enables individuals to meet them in a casual setting. “Most of the public, the one-on-one that they have with an officer is usually a traffic stop, or unfortunately, they are a victim; so this kind of gets down to that human level just to give the people the opportunity really just to intermingle with the officers in uniform,” Tyler said. “I think we forget as officers sometimes this can be intimidating to a lot of people,” he said, adding that when he was young,

police officers in uniform intimidated him. “Obviously we want people to come and talk to us when they’re having a problem. We also want them to be comfortable speaking with us when there’s not a problem.” The officers also work closely with the school districts of Chandler Mesa and Kyrene, to teach students about the dangers of underage drinking, drug prevention, gangs and other social issues relevant to the age group. Each summer, Mejia teaches four, one-week youth academies to familiarize 12 to 17 year old youth to the work of the police department, and also conducts a hiking trip for middle schoolers in the cooler climes of North Arizona. “It’s very important for us to work closely with everybody in our community,” Mejia said. “It’s a great position to be in.”

said. “It was awesome to see how all of the big leaguers act and interact around each other. I was able to meet most of the people I’ve looked up to for most of my life.” His favorite was fellow first baseman Paul Goldschmidt of the Arizona Diamondbacks. “I looked up to him for a long time,” he said. “He plays first base like me. Paul Goldschmidt was really fun to talk to, hang out with and get to know.” Nick was chosen for the Home Run Derby after participating in a similar event at the Tournament of Stars in North Carolina. In San Diego, the Stanford commit won it by hitting four home runs in the finals, including one that reached the third deck of the Western Metal Supply Building in left field. He doesn’t remember how far he hit a ball in the competition, but during practice he shot one 442 feet. How does that compare to this year’s MLB winner Giancarlo Stanton? The Miami Marlin’s average home run was 446 feet, according to Statcast. “I didn’t have any expectations going in,” he said. “I just wanted to enjoy everything. Being able to hit at a big league ballpark was awesome, though.” Nick grew up in Chandler “playing every sport up until freshman year.” It was then that he decided to focus on his future baseball career while getting good grades. His GPA last school year was higher than 4.0. “I was the best at baseball out of the other sports,” Nick said. “All the guys I hung out with and grew up with played baseball. Baseball has connected me with

friends I’ve had for 10 years now.” Charity is important to Nick as well. For 10 weeks in this summer, he was part of For the Fun of the Game and helped Chandler Little Leaguers hone their skills. “I definitely think that giving back to the community and making the world a better place is important—not just guys like me, but baseball players in general,” he said. “They need to portray a good image and show that they’re not just baseball players.” As for his future, he’s planning on studying business and playing ball at Stanford. He’s hoping to be drafted, play in the minor leagues and eventually make it to the big leagues. His backup plan is to be a businessman. While the Marlins’ Stanton was given a trophy for winning the Home Run Derby, Nick took home his pride. “A trophy doesn’t matter to me much,” he said. “I had an awesome experience that was unforgettable.”

UPGRADE TO A SMART GARAGE

LiftMaster® 8550W DC Belt Drive Garage Door Opener

What garage door opener alerts you when it opens or closes with MyQ® Technology? Gives you the ability to control it from anywhere? Safeguards your home with advanced security features, and powers up so you can access your home, even when the power is down? The LiftMaster® 8550W DC Belt Drive Garage Door Opener. PROFESSIONALLY INSTALLED

COOKSON DOOR SALES OF ARIZONA 705 W 22ND ST, TEMPE, AZ 85282-1905 480-377-8777 www.cooksonaz.com

365

Opener is priced for garage doors up to 7’ tall. Offer includes complete installation and sales tax - there are no hidden charges. Offer cannot be used on previous orders and prices subject to change.

ROC094890

Community

www.SanTanSun.com

August 6 - 19, 2016

A pharmacy can be so much more than the place you fill prescriptions. Medmetrics is that kind of pharmacy.

Great care is just around the corner.

(480) 883-3800 | 4995 S Alma School Rd Ste 4 | Chandler, AZ 85248 | hello@medmetricsrx.com

Full Service Pharmacy including: COMPOUNDING

PET MEDS

Hormone Replacement

Valley Fever Meds

Veterinary

Calming Chews

Pediatric

Compounding

Dermatology

Supplements

Pain Management

Bone & Joint

Custom Flavors

PRESCRIPTIONS Most insurance plans accepted

VITAMINS & SUPPLEMENTS

The Pill Plan™

Detox Weight Loss

Remembering to take multiple medications has never been so easy. Have us transfer your prescriptions today.

Hormone Support Consultations

and More…

Private Gated Enclave

Truly A Must See!

Ocotillo cmmty, 2BR/2BA+den, 2CG, surrounded by single stories. Exceptional move-in ready. $250,000 Call Thom Wright, 602-359-3213

Beautiful Sun Lakes Villa in Oakwood. 2BR/2BA tastefully updated. Custom touches. Large Master. $275,000 Call Kathy Campbell, 602-799-8840

Very Desirable Location!

Formal Model With Casita

Paseo Trail!! 4BR/3BA, granite kit work space. Over 8K sq ft lot!! Pebble Tec pool, water feature. $319,995 Call Debbie Cannon, 480-540-2054

Gorgeous 4BR/4BA with casita in Markwood North. Two courtyards. Highly upgr kitchen. $430,000 Call Sara Waide Bowers, 480-276-6443

Pride of Ownership

Updated Home Chandler

Ray Ranch 4BR/2.5BA home w/3CG. Features Cherry wood flooring, upgrd Cherry cabinets. Grassy bkyd. $400,000 Call Azita, 480-334-0004

Desirable neighborhd. 5BR/4,225sf. Oversz mstr. Diving pool. Updates: granite ctops, SS applia, flooring + more. $435,000 Call Azita, 480-334-0004

Bridges At Ocotillo

Amazing Ashcreek Estates

2BR in unique award winning cmmty near championship golf course. Townhouse w/fitness area/pool/water views. $190,000 Call Debbie Cannon 480-540-2054

4BR/2.5BA dream home. Lots of upgrades. Gourmet kit. Fabulous master suite. Energy Star. $400,000 Call Melissa Lopez, 480-467-8440

Spectrum at Val Vista

Gorgeous 4BR/3 bath + den & loft/ teen rm. Over 3,000sf. Mstr retreat. Bkyd oasis. Great for entertaining! $395,000 Call Maggi Connelly, 480-669-9016

Old Stone Ranch

Lake cmmty. 3,873sf 5BR/3.5BA plus den, loft & 4 car garage! Gourmet kitchen, large island, Guest ste. $500,000 Call Melissa Lopez, 480-467-8440

Catrina Kenney 480-527-7936

Azita Sajjadi 480-334-0004

Pam Hillabolt 480-313-5400

Dorothy Harrison 480-251-7380

Liz Pickett 480-659-4624

Maggi Connelly 480-669-9016

Melissa Lopez 480-467-8440

Karl Winchester 480-492-9794

Emil Joseph 480-375-1083

Thom Wright 602-359-3213

Shannon Kiszka 831-331-0379

Cynthia Morisch 480-710-2755

Debbie Cannon 480-540-2054

Kathy Campbell 602-799-8840

Sara Waide Bowers 480-276-6443

Diane Siems 480-694-2072

Suzanne Klinkenberg 480-492-7770

Leah Lichter-Roedig Manager, Broker 480-899-1808

1045 W. Queen Creek Rd., Suite 1 • Chandler, AZ www.azmoves.com Call your favorite Realtor today!

Owned And Operated By a Subsidiary of NRT LLC

Community

August 6 - 19, 2016

ANNA from page 1

Reserves while he was in college and was called into action as a pilot during World War II. That meant multiple moves for the young couple, who started a family soon after they wed. When they returned from a stint in Japan, Anna returned to college in Arizona, earning 15 credits. A few years later, when her youngest son was starting first grade and her oldest son was starting at Maricopa Community College, Charles encouraged her to again return to college. So, she and Wayne, the oldest, enrolled at MCC at the same time. After a couple of semesters, Anna graduated, with honors, and headed to Arizona State University, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in English teaching in 1970 or 1971—she couldn’t recall the exact year. She stayed in school and earned a master’s from ASU, too. She was quickly hired by Mesa Public Schools to work as a homebound teacher. “It was one-on-one. It was great. I loved it,” Arnett said of that first teaching job. But about a month into the position, the school superintendent asked her visit a Phoenix school “to find out what they were doing with a school for pregnant kids.” Three days after her visit, “we opened that kind of school in Mesa.” Arnett spent the next 16 years as “the pregnant teacher.” None of the students in that school

were in the same classes or grade level, which meant Arnett had to help each student determine a work speed and prepare them for tests. “I told them this is how you learn through life,” she said. “You find out what you want to know, learn it and teach yourself.” Arnett is a bit modest about her career. “I don’t know how good a teacher I was,” she said. “But I loved the girls. They were good girls who got caught in tough circumstances.” She taught 1,111 students. “It’s an easy number to remember,” she said, with a laugh. During those years, the school expanded first to three teachers and then five. After she retired from Mesa Public Schools in 1987, she and her husband went on a mission to Australia for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In the last several decades Arnett has filled her days with family, church and writing a lot of poetry. Charles died in 2008. But, a year and a half ago, as she and daughter Kathleen were getting ready for a breakfast at church, things changed, Arnett said. Kathleen “shook her finger and told me to stop wasting my time on poetry and stories and start writing down every family story I could remember. She said to make it interesting so the grandkids and great-grandkids would want to read it,” Arnett said. She has 29 grandchildren and “50-some great-

www.SanTanSun.com

Anna Arnett adjust her cap in the mirror. Arnett recently graduated with a masters degree in Creative Writing from Wilkes University at the age of 91.

grandkids. We don’t really know (how many). They just keep coming,” she said. Around the same time, she heard about Wilkes’ master’s program in creative nonfiction writing. “I thought it sounded interesting,” she said. So, she headed to the Wilkes campus in downtown Mesa and talked to them about enrolling.

Wilkes accepted the Veterans Affairs college benefits that Arnett qualified for through her husband, meaning her tuition at Wilkes was covered. “I left the building that day with my student ID and badge,” she said, at age 90. Arnett insists that returning to college improved her health and outlook.

INSPIRING PATIENTS TO CARE FOR THEIR SKIN

MEDICAL ~ SURGICAL COSMETIC ~ LASER From skin cancer surgeries to anti-aging treatments, Spectrum Dermatology is recognized as one of Arizona’s leading treatment centers for medical, surgical, cosmetic & laser dermatology.

CALL TODAY: 480.948.8400

SCOTTSDALE PHOENIX/ARCADIA CHANDLER 9500 E. Ironwood Sq. Dr., 4350 E. Camelback Rd. 312 N. Alma School Rd. Suite 110 Suite A-200 Suite #5 Scottsdale, AZ 85258 Phoenix, AZ 85018 Chandler, AZ 85224

www.SpectrumDermatology.com

DESERT RIDGE 20950 N. Tatum Blvd., Suite 250 Phoenix, AZ 85050

Community

www.SanTanSun.com

August 6 - 19, 2016

Turning yard into wildlife habitat among free landscape classes A class on how to transform outdoor living spaces into a wildlife habitat has been added to Chandler’s annual fall lineup of free landscaping and irrigation classes. Whether you’re a wildlife watcher, photographer or just enjoy living in harmony with nature, the Take a Walk on the Wild Side workshop will teach participants how to create their own urban wildlife habitat. Paul Holdeman, licensed landscape contractor and owner of The Pond Gnome, will explain how to build and sustain small, backyard ponds and organic water features using native plants and good Xeriscape design principles, including the capturing and recycling of stormwater. The series of 10 free workshops is designed to help residents learn how to use water more efficiently and still have lush looking yards. All classes will be held at Techshop, 249 E. Chicago St., with the exception of the Create Your Own Oasis workshop, which will be presented in Chandler’s Environmental Education Center (EEC), 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd. To register for any of the classes listed below, visit chandleraz.gov/ water, or call the Chandler Water Conservation Office at 480-782-3580.

Aug. 23, Basic Yard Makeovers, 6:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., TechShop Sept. 8, Drip Irrigation, 6 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., TechShop Sept. 13, Edible Gardening, 6:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., TechShop Sept. 15, Yard Watering, 6 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., TechShop Sept. 17 and Sept. 24, Create Your Own Oasis, 9 a.m.-noon, EEC Sept. 22, Irrigation Maintenance, 6 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., TechShop Sept. 29, Smart Irrigation Controllers, 6 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., TechShop Oct. 4, Pruning, 6:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., TechShop Oct. 12, Rainwater Harvesting, 6:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., TechShop Oct. 20, Take a Walk on the Wild Side, 6:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., TechShop Complete class descriptions are available at chandleraz.gov/water. Residents can keep up-to-date on the latest Chandler conservation news and information by liking us on Facebook (ChandlerConserves).

A 16-foot tall water pyramid consisting of 136, one-gallon bottles is erected annually in Chandler City Hall to promote water conservation. The display represents the amount of water the average person in the Valley uses each day.

For those people who value excellence... We invite you to experience our commitment!

Healthy Smiles. Happy Patients.

Patients who visit our office can be assured that their appointments will begin and end on time. • Gentle, health-focused care in a relaxed setting • Utilizing the latest in dental technologies In-network for all major PPO plans • 0% payment plans through CareCredit® Dr. Jonathan Koerperick

FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY PHOENIX MAGAZINE 2013, 2014 & 2015!

What our patients are saying:

“All I can say is “awesome.’ You won’t find better. I travel 50 miles each way to see my dentist. Loyal.”

- Denise P.

Amazon Gift Card New patients with dental insurance. Limit 2 per household.

Silvertree Dental • Chandler • 480-359-2305

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Offer expires 08-30-16

free

Consultation or 2nd Opinion

Are you conﬁdent with your diagnosis? Advice on treatment options with a health-focused conservative approach.

Silvertree Dental • Chandler • 480-359-2305

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Offer expires 08-30-16

Carmel Professional Plaza

Gilbert Road & Queen Creek Road • Chandler

480-359-2305

Exam, Cleaning* & full set of x-rays *Cleaning in the absense of gum disease. New patients only.

Silvertree Dental • Chandler • 480-359-2305

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Offer expires 08-30-16

Ask About Our In-House Dental Savings Plan.

480.899.6677 www.ChandlerDentalHealth.com

August 6 - 19, 2016

Community

www.SanTanSun.com

Lawton graduates from basic training U.S. Air Force Reserve Airman 1st Class Campbell A. Lawton graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas. The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. Airmen who complete basic training

also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force. Lawton is the son of Lia R. Hayslip of Glendale and Joshua A. Lawton of Chandler, and grandson of Gay Ingram of Chandler and Robert Lawton of Morrisville, Vermont. He is a 2014 graduate of Graham High School, St. Paris, Ohio.

Chandler woman recommended to Maricopa County Superior Court Erin O’Brien Otis, a commissioner with the Maricopa County Superior Court, is among 11 candidates recommended to Gov. Doug Ducey for three openings on the Maricopa County Superior Court. The 40-year-old Democrat lives in Chandler. Nominees for the openings created by the retirement of Judges J. Richard Gama, Crane McClennen and Roland J. Steinle, III are: •M ichael C. Blair, 45, Republican, of Gilbert, a Partner at Baird, Williams & Greer LLP. •K imberly A. Demarchi, 40, Democrat, of Phoenix, a partner at Lewis, Roca, Rothgerber LLP. • Ronda R. Fisk, 43, Independent, of Phoenix, a member at Osborn Maledon P.A. SFR-SanTan-halfpg-06242016-PRINT.pdf • Mark E. House, 43, Republican, of Phoenix,

a partner at Becker & House PLLC. • Michelle D. Johnson, 42, Democrat, of Phoenix, sole practitioner at the Law Offices of Michelle Johnson, PLC. • Todd F. Lang, 50, Independent, of Phoenix, assistant U.S. attorney at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona. • Michael Mandell, 46, Independent, of Tempe, commissioner with the Maricopa County Superior Court. • Scott S. Minder, 41, Republican, of Phoenix, counsel at Perkins Coie. • A nnielaurie Van Wie, 44, Independent, of Phoenix, commissioner with the Maricopa County Superior Court. • L isa A. VandenBerg, 43, Democrat, of Tolleson, commissioner with the 1 Maricopa 6/24/16 8:39 AM County Superior Court.

Donate blood, enter to win car Summer donors of all blood types are urgently needed. Donors who give blood Aug. 31 could drive away in a 2016 VW Passat S, donated by Valley Volkswagen dealers. What’s more, all August donors will receive a voucher for a free ride (up to $50), courtesy of Lyft. For a blood donation appointment, call 1-877-UBSHERO (827-4376) or visit BloodHero.com (enter your city or zip code). In Chandler, there are various blood donation events: • 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 9, Health

Source of Chandler South, 1445 S. Arizona Ave., Bloodmobile • 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 12, Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Bloodmobile • 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sçaturday, Aug. 13, LDS Mesa Arizona Alma Stake, 2252 W. Mesquite, Cultural Hall • 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 24, California Pools & Landscape, 4320 W. Chandler Blvd., Bloodmobile • 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 30, City of Chandler, 250 E. Chicago St., Bloodmobile

RESORT TO A BETTER LIFESTYLE Lakes, Waterfalls, Trails, Shopping & Dining

CONTEMPORARY, MEDITERRANEAN-STYLE VILLAS STARTING AT $235,900 VILLA 3 2 Bed-2 Bath, features elevated, 180° views of Fulton Ranch. Starting @ $235,900

PRIVATE GATED COMMUNITY - SE VALLEY’S PREMIER MASTER PLAN 4 VILLA FLOOR PLANS - TOWNHOME-STYLE & SINGLE-LEVEL FLATS UNPARALLELED LUXURY FEATURES 2-CAR, DIRECT ACCESS GARAGE INCLUDED Summer pricing going UP soon

Call to arrange a private tour Serenity Fulton Ranch is a condominium community.

A LMA S CHOOL & F ULTON R ANCH B LVD . | S ERENITY F ULTON R ANCH . COM

www.SanTanSun.com

Community

August 6 - 19, 2016

Community

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

Council thanks several employees for lengthy service to city Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the City Council honored several staff members for their dedication to the city. They congratulated City Attorney Kay Bigelow on her upcoming retirement. They thanked her for her service to the council, and for this community, and presented her with a Key to the City plaque. During a study session on July 25, the mayor and council recognized Battalion Chief Roger Vigil on his retirement after 30 years serving the community. Also recognized for their years of service were: Lorraine Trow, housing and redevelopment, 20 years; Kevin Mayo, planning, 15 years; Jose Sandoval, print, mail and graphics, 25 years; Julie Buelt, budget, 15 years; and Jim Schwalenberg, police, 20 years. The Chandler City Council met at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 28, and took action on 67 agenda items, including: • Approved payment of the annual membership dues to Arizona Municipal Water Users Association (AMWUA) in the amount of $94,495. • Approved a resolution authorizing agreements with the Gila River Indian Community (GRIC) and Gila River Water Storage (GRWS) for several interrelated water transactions: the lease of Central Arizona Project (CAP) water from the community, an exchange of Chandler reclaimed water for GRIC CAP water, and the purchase of long-term water storage credits from GRWS. The city will purchase 622,000-acre-feet of CAP water for $42.86 million. Additional water is needed based

on the city’s water demand projections at build-out. • Approved the appropriation for fire and emergency medical dispatch services from the city of Phoenix in accordance with the current Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA), in an amount of $1,025,108.42. • Approved the appropriation for firefighter physical examinations in accordance with the current IGA with the city of Phoenix, in an amount of $166,773.• Authorized the use of Maricopa County’s detention services, for the booking and housing of inmates, in an amount not to exceed $1,705,573 for one year.• Approved an agreement with the Tempe Tourism Office to continue the Sunny Arizona marketing campaign to promote the cities of Chandler and Tempe as a single destination. • Awarded a construction contract to ELS Construction Inc. for Amberwood Park improvements, in an amount not to exceed $57,408. uthorized the purchase of eight BMW •A police motorcycles, in the amount of $216,011.92, from LZ Delta LLC, dba GoAZ. • Awarded a design contract to Weddle Gilmore Architects LLC, for the Chandler Museum, in an amount not to exceed $609,105. • Approved a rezoning request for Allred Park Place, for an employment business park campus with commercial, office, conference center hotel and business park uses including a mid-rise overlay for

Elect Matt

buildings up to 150 feet in height under an Innovation Zone. The project is located on 62 acres at the southwest and southeast corners of Price and Willis roads. • Authorized the issuance and sale of (not to exceed) $50 million in General Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series 2016, and (not to exceed) $40 million in Excise Tax Revenue Refunding Obligations, Series 2016. • Depending on the size of the final issues, these actions are expected to generate debt service savings to the city of approximately $6.5 million to $10 million in net present value dollars. • Approved Liquor Use Permits and recommended Liquor Licenses for the following: Zesty Zzeeks Pizza & Wings, 960 E. Warner Rd.; Streets of New York, 5965 W. Ray Rd.; Home2 Suites by Hilton, 2490 W. Queen Creek Rd.; Valero Corner Store, 1015 S. Cooper Rd.; Pieology Pizzeria, 3450 W. Chandler Blvd.; Fry’s Fuel Center, 2955 E. Ocotillo Rd.; Black Bear Diner, 2805 S. Alma School Rd.; and Teakwoods Tavern, 5965 W. Ray Rd. At the conclusion of the regular meeting, Tibshraeny announced that one part of his Health Connect Initiative has eclipsed the $500,000 mark in savings to residents. Chandler residents have saved a total of $556,000 through the city’s discount prescription drug card saving program since its inception four years ago. The city partners with Coast2Coast Rx to allow all Chandler residents—regardless of income, age or health status—to participate in the program and save on the cost of their

Re-Elect Nora

Eberle

see COUNCIL page 9

Elect Gregg

Ellen

For Chandler City Council

medications. The free prescription drug card can be printed online at chandleraz.gov/connect. The mayor invited the public to attend a free pool party at Chandler’s Arrowhead Pool from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6. The Verano Sano event promotes water safety awareness in a series of fun, family-friendly activities including music, refreshments and raffle prizes. The Chandler Fire, Health and Medical Department will have a fire engine on site and provide CPR demonstrations, while swim instructors also will be on hand to perform demonstrations and provide instruction. Arrowhead Pool is located at 1475 W. Erie St. For more information, contact Chandler Aquatics at 480-782-2750. Councilman Rick Heumann thanked City staff for their work on the groundbreaking water agreement with the Gila River Indian Community. He then noted that students have returned to school and asked residents to be careful driving through school zones. Heumann concluded his remarks by inviting the public to the Google Self Driving Car Open House on Saturday, Aug. 13, in downtown Chandler. Details are online at chandleraz.gov/news. Councilman René Lopez reminded everyone that August is Drowning Impact Awareness Month and to watch your children around water. Councilman Kevin Hartke thanked all of the volunteers and the 50 to 60

Pekau Early Voting Begins August 3rd

On The Ballot

Our Vision

Endorsed By

Ellen, Nora

“Our Pledge is to ensure Chandler remains the best place to work, live and play.”

◆ Boyd Dunn, Former Chandler Mayor ◆ Jerry Brooks, Former Chandler Mayor ◆ Chandler Chamber of Commerce ◆ Michael Pollack, Pollack Investments ◆ Tom Forese, Arizona Corporation Commission ◆ Senator Steve Yarbrough, AZ Senate – Dist. 17 ◆ Representative J.D. Mesnard, AZ House – Dist. 17 ◆ Representative Jeff Weninger, AZ House – Dist. 17 ◆ Representative Jill Norgaard, AZ House – Dist. 18 ◆ Supervisor Denny Barney, Maricopa County ◆ Councilman Rene Lopez, Chandler City Council

Eberle, Matt Pekau, Gregg

➠ Attract and Maintain High Wage Jobs ➠ Protect and Improve Neighborhoods ➠ Ensure Public Safety has the Resources Needed ➠ Invest in Vital Infrastructure

ElectMattEberle@gmail.com MattEberle.com Paid For By

Elect Matt Eberle

ElectNoraEllen@gmail.com ElectNoraEllen.com Paid For By

Elect Nora Ellen

GreggPekau@gmail.com GreggPekau.com Paid For By

Gregg Pekau For Chandler

Community

www.SanTanSun.com

COUNCIL from page 8

organizations that worked together on the Operation Back to School event on Aug. 23. More than 2,500 children received backpacks, uniforms, shoes and other items to help them succeed in school. Hartke also praised the “collaborative consciousness” that exists in Chandler among the business community, nonprofit organizations and the public. Councilman Terry Roe asked everyone to remember the sacrifice of Chandler Police Det. Carlos Ledesma who was killed in the line of duty six years ago.

August 6 - 19, 2016

The meeting adjourned at 8:07 p.m. During a study session on July 25, the mayor proclaimed August as Drowning Impact Awareness Month and recognized retiring Kyrene School District Superintendent Dr. David Schauer by proclaiming July 25 as Dr. David Schauer Day in Chandler. The next meeting of the City Council will be a regular meeting and a study session at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8. Council meetings are aired live, as well as replayed on The Chandler Channel, Cable Channel 11, and streamed on the web at chandleraz.gov/video.

Trust-it starts with personalized attention. Earning your trust is important to me. As your Mortgage Banker, I'll do this by reviewing

your loan options and helping you choose the mortgage that's right for you. You can

depend on me to answer your questions and follow up right away. Contact me today.

...,

....

�

Chad Erickson, Mortgage Banker T: 480-460-3015 C: 602-617-2687 michael.c.erickson@chase.com http://homeloan.chase.com/michael.c.erickson NMLS ID: 694441

CHASE

SO YOU CAN

480.792.1161 ChristopherDiamonds.com 2560 West Chandler Boulevard, Suite Three

(=)

All home lending products are subject to credit and property approval. Rates, program terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. ueNoea Not all products are available in all states or for all amounts. Other restrictions and limitations apply. ©2015 JPMorgan Chase & Co. 78292K-0815

ShopSubaru.com

Celebr ating our 20th Anniversary!

Let us cater your next event!

/2 OFF

Buy 1 pizza or entree and get the 2nd of equal or lesser value at 1/2 price! Please present coupon at time of order. One coupon per visit. Alcohol purchases not included. Not valid with any other specials. Offer expires 08-31-2016.

480-812-8433

Pizza, Pasta & Wine

590 North Alma School Road • Located in the Granada Plaza

www.Floridinos.net

Chandler, Arizona 85224

City of Chandler Insider

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

Chandler Election Overview “Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves and the only way they could do this is by not voting.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt Each election year, Chandler voters have the opportunity to make themselves heard and choose their representation on the City Council. Chandler’s primary election is Tuesday, Aug. 30. Vice Mayor Jack Sellers and Councilmember Rick Heumann will leave office after eight years due to term limits. Councilmember Nora Ellen is running for re-election and will compete for three council seats with seven other candidates; Matt Eberle, Seth Graham, Aaron Harris, Sr., Sam Huang, Gregg Pekau, John “J.R.” Repar and Mark Stewart. Voter participation in the August primary election is important as City Council candidates have the ability to be elected outright if they receive a majority of the votes cast. If any elected offices remain unfilled after the primary election, those seats will be decided in a runoff that will take place on the Nov. 8 general election. In addition to Council and statewide seats, a local General Plan Update (Proposition 493) will be on the ballot. The Chandler General Plan 2016 is a comprehensive plan with broad policies that will be used to guide growth and development in the City of Chandler during the next 10 years. State law requires cities to readopt or update their general plan at least once every 10 years. The current General Plan was adopted by Chandler’s City Council on June 26, 2008, and ratified by voters at the general election held on Nov. 4, 2008. The 2016 update was prepared a couple of years in advance with public participation and feedback to address changing development trends and factors that are facing the City. The City Council adopted the Chandler General Plan 2016 on April 14. More information on the General Plan and the final, adopted version is available online at chandleraz.gov/GPupdate. Hard copies of the plan also are available at the following locations:

• C ity Clerk’s Office, 175 S. Arizona Ave, first floor. • Transportation & Development Office, 215 E. Buffalo St. • Downtown Library (Reference Desk), 22 S. Delaware St. • Sunset Library (Reference Desk), 4930 W. Ray Road. • H amilton Library (Reference Desk), 3700 S. Arizona Ave. • Basha Library (Reference Desk), 5990 S. Val Vista Drive.

Polling place information

The polls will be open for voters to cast their ballots on Election Day from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m. Every qualified elector is required to show proof of identity at the polling place before receiving a ballot. All qualified voters who are in line by 7 p.m., shall be allowed to prepare and cast their ballot. An assigned polling place locator is available online at recorder. maricopa.gov/pollingplace/.

Drop-off early ballots

Completed early ballots can be dropped off at Chandler City Hall through Friday, Aug. 26. Any voter in possession of their voted ballot on Election Day may drop off their ballot at Chandler City Hall, or to any polling place designated for this election from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Early voting for the primary election may be done in person from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, from Monday, Aug. 8 through Friday, Aug. 26, at Chandler City Hall, 175 S. Arizona Ave. Early voting also is available at the Maricopa County Recorder Offices in Phoenix and Mesa, starting on Wednesday, Aug. 3. Voters may request an early ballot by mail, but must do so by Friday, Aug. 19. To have an early ballot mailed to you, contact the Maricopa County Elections Department, 510 S. Third Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85003, 602-506-1511. Requests (written, verbal, or online) must be received before 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 19. Written requests should include: 1) name and residence address; 2) birthdate; 3) election for which the

Early voting for the primary election may be done in person from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, from Monday, Aug. 8 through Friday, Aug. 26, at Chandler City Hall, 175 S. Arizona Ave

ballot is requested; 4) address where the ballot is to be mailed, if different than residence address; 5) signature of requester. Early ballot requests also can be made online at: recorder. maricopa.gov/earlyvotingballot/ earlyvotingballotrequest.aspx. Prior to the primary election, a sample ballot or election pamphlet was mailed to each household that has a registered voter. The polling location specific to the voter’s registered address was indicated on the sample ballot/election pamphlet. Arizona now has a law that allows a voter to place their name on a “Permanent Early Voting List.” This means that once a voter is on the list, they will receive an early ballot by mail for any election in which they are eligible to vote. Approximately 27 days prior to the specified election, a ballot automatically will be mailed to the voters on that list.

Political signs

The City Code outlines the proper size, construction and placement of political signs, their proper

maintenance and timely removal. All private signs, including political signs, are generally prohibited in public right-of-way or City-owned property. Political signs placed in an unsafe location, or violating code requirements such as size and construction, will be removed even if they fall within the allowable time limits. Questions regarding the posting of political signs can be addressed by the City’s Code Enforcement Division at 480-782-4320.

Be informed

Visit chandleraz.gov/elections to learn more about the upcoming elections, including a candidate listing along with their contact information, campaign finance reports, prior election results, answers to frequently asked questions and links to various voter tools, such as a polling place locator. The public also may contact the Chandler City Clerk’s Office at 480-782-2180 with any questions or the Maricopa County Elections Department at 602-506-1511.

NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT OF VARICOSE AND SPIDER VEINS

Love your legs... OVER 13,000 PATIENTS TREATED!

• Non-surgical laser procedure • Minimal recovery time • Done in the office by a Physician

2015

Covered by most insurance and Medicare / AHCCCS

Dr. Paul Sos, M.D. Dr. John Opie, M.D. Dr. Kenneth Seifert, M.D

Met your deductible? Call us today!

Screenings Available!

Cosmetic Sclerotherapy $200

New Patients Only. (one per patient) With coupon only. Limited time. Expires 08-31-16

480-899-8930 • 485 S. Dobson Rd., Ste. 103, Chandler • www.optimaveincare.com • 3 Locations: Chandler, Phoenix, Scottsdale

www.SanTanSun.com

Go Pack…Go!

City of Chandler Insider

August 6 - 19, 2016

EMPLOYEE PROFILE

BY THE CITY OF CHANDLER COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT

For nearly 17 years, executive management assistant Nan Kahl has worked in Chandler’s city clerk’s office. She’s the most tenured staff member in the clerk’s office, second to City Clerk Marla Paddock. Kahl’s 34-year career in municipal government started as an accountant with the City of Monona, Wisconsin. She held a variety of positions in Monona, and her final role was as city clerk/deputy treasurer. She always felt supported and gives credit to Monona City Administrator Kevin Brunner for encouraging her along the way. While working as a city clerk, she was hooked on the job’s function and knew she found her place in government. She also was looking to move to Arizona to be near her future husband. Kahl considers herself to be very fortunate to have found an open position in the Chandler city clerk’s office. She applied, got the job and on Nov. 1, she’ll celebrate 17 years with Chandler. Nov. 1 is her lucky day. She also started on that date with Monona and left after 17 years of service. As an executive management assistant, Kahl loves her job. The function of the city clerk’s office is important to government transparency. Here’s how it works: the City Council passes city ordinances, the city manager (along with city staff) facilitates these into action, and the clerk’s office provides essential services to comply with state law and local ordinances, such as open meeting laws, public records and elections. During election season, she works with the city clerk to assist City Council candidates with submitting the required paperwork. Another duty that keeps her busy is maintaining the city clerk’s website. Chandler’s city clerk’s office is also a passport agency, so Kahl stays very busy serving staff and the public. Kahl has been married for more than 12 years, and she has one daughter and

Nan Kahl has been a public servant for 34 years. She will celebrate 17 years with the city of Chandler on Nov. 1.

two stepchildren. She loves to travel; Hawaii is the best place she’s visited, and her next trip will be a European river boat cruise. She plans a trip to Wisconsin each summer, too. In addition to traveling, Kahl loves cooking, gardening, genealogy and reading. She likes “old things”— such historical people, places and things. In her world, “museums rock”! She’s well informed, as she reads the newspaper every day (a hard copy, not the online version) and always likes to read the “On this day in history...” section. Kahl also is passionate about her Green Bay Packers. She can say “her” Packers because she owns stock in the team and is part owner. She takes great

pride in this and can’t wait for football season to start. Kahl is a hardworking member of the city clerk’s office. She loves being a

public servant. “Serving the citizens is rewarding as well as working with the city of Chandler’s great employees,” said Kahl. “We are family.

BEST CARE PHARMACY

FREE HEALTH SCREENINGS!

Blood Pressure, Diabetes & Cholesterol Screenings

• Free delivery • Immunizations • Compounding • We beat GoodRX prices • Zyto Scan (Nutritional/Stress) • Most insurances accepted • $20 for your new prescriptions • $5 most generic for cash patients • We match competitors cash price • Prompt & Efficient Service Guaranteed

We’re excited to be an active member of the community and look forward to meeting you.

1020 E. Pecos Road, Suite 5 Chandler, AZ 85225 NE corner of McQueen & Pecos Between Subway and Water & Ice

ph: 480-219-3885 fx: 480-219-2156 info@bestcarepharm.com

Nan Kahl, pictured with her husband Dale, is a huge Green Bay Packers fan and also is part owner. She was able to purchase stock the second time the Packers made it available.

HOURS: Mon - Fri 10am - 7pm • Saturday 10am - 2pm • Sunday Closed Holidays Closed

Community

August 6 - 19, 2016

Residents save money using free prescription discount card Chandler residents have saved $556,453 in four years through the city’s discount prescription drug card saving program. The program was launched as part of Mayor Jay Tibshraeny’s Health Connect initiative, designed to promote financial, physical and mental health to create a healthier community. The city partnered with Coast2Coast Rx to allow residents, regardless of income, age or health status, to participate and save on medication costs. Chandler does not incur any cost to

participate in the program. The free prescription drug card can be printed online at coast2coastrx.com/ cities/az/chandler. Residents can use the card at pharmacy chains and most independent pharmacies in Chandler. The card gives customers an average discount of 65% off the retail price. No application or personal information is required. It also can help with dental, visual, hearing and pet prescriptions. For more information on the Mayor’s Health Connect initiative, visit chandleraz.gov/connect.

FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS

FREE ESTIMATES! SENIOR DISCOUNTS!

• Water Heater – Repair or Replacement (Any brand)

• Backflow – Repair or Replacement

• Pipe leak repair

• Water Treatment Systems – Sales & Service

• Slab Leaks • Repipes

• Drains

• Reroutes

• Faucets

• Disposals

• Toilets

• Leaky Shower/Tub repair

• Insta-Hot Recirculating Pumps

• Water Softeners – Sales & Service

• Gas Lines

• Sewer Video and Locating

• Sprinkler Repairs

Same Day Service Available

480-895-5858

www.cureallplumbing.com Residential/Commercial - Lic. # 204797

www.SanTanSun.com

Sojourner Center official Hauser to speak to Democrats on Aug. 8 The Sun Lakes Democratic Club will welcome Teri Hauser of the Sojourner Center during its 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8, meeting in the Navajo Room at Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 Sun Lakes Blvd. Hauser is the chief advancement officer for the Sojourner Center, which provides shelter and support to women and children affected by domestic violence and collaborates with the global community on education, research and advocacy to end domestic violence. The minimum wage and marijuana initiatives that will appear on the November ballot will also be discussed. Several candidates for state, county and federal offices will also speak. At all club meetings, nonperishable

food items are collected for the Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank. Collections take place on meeting nights in the west parking lot from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. There is also a collection box at the north entrance of the Sun Lakes Sunset Grill lobby. In 2015 the total amount collected for Matthew’s Crossing was 2,310.5 lbs. of food and $686. With the amount collected in June (242 lbs. of food and $16) the totals so far for 2016 are 1,988 lbs. of food and $161. Everyone is welcome at Sun Lakes Democratic Club meetings, which are always on the second Monday of each month. Refreshments are served. For more information, call Tom Amrhein 480-895-1162.

Dr. Shadow Asgari, DDS, MS

Dr. Samantha Vu, DMD, MS

Back-to-School SPECIAL FULL ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT Excludes insurance discounts.

Behind Every Great Student is Confidence. Give your teen the confidence they need with an attractive smile.

4015 S. Arizona Ave., #7, Chandler AZ 85248

480-400-6212

TWO S! LOCATION

3336 E. Chandler Heights Rd. Bldg 2 Ste. 111 Gilbert AZ 85298

480-988-0028

www.SonoranSmile.com

www.SanTanSun.com

Community

August 6 - 19, 2016

Economic development program manager earns certified designation

Police offering firearms safety class The Chandler Police Department’s firearms unit will host a firearms safety class at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10, at the Main Precinct Community Room, 250 E. Chicago St. Attendees will receive a free cable gun lock. This class was built with parents and caregivers in mind. This class will provide the foundation for responsible gun

ownership. Those who neither own, nor plan on owning a firearm, can also benefit from the class theme: keeping firearms out of the hands of children. Class size is limited to 90 participants, which is on a first-come-first-serve basis. For more information, contact Detective Seth Tyler at 480- 782-4105.

James Smith, economic development program manager, with the City of Chandler’s Economic Development Division, recently earned the designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), a national recognition that denotes a mastery of skills in economic development, professional attainment and a commitment to personal and professional growth. The CEcD exam was administered by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) this June in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the Hyatt Regency Tulsa. Smith was the only representative from Arizona who completed and passed the exam. With more than 17 years of economic development experience, Smith manages the City’s office, industrial and retail projects, including attraction, retention and expansion. Smith also has worked on redevelopment programs, including administering Chandler’s Infill Incentive Plan, which encourages private reuse/redevelopment of existing commercial centers, and recently worked on implementation of the city’s adaptive reuse program. The CEcD designation recognizes qualified and dedicated practitioners in the economic development field and sets the standard of excellence within the profession. Candidates must pass a rigorous and comprehensive examination, which has three parts and spans two days. The exam tests a practitioner’s knowledge, proficiency and judgment in the following key areas of economic development:

James Smith

business retention and expansion; finance & credit analysis; marketing and attraction; strategic planning; entrepreneurial and small business development; managing economic development organizations; neighborhood development strategies; real estate development and reuse; technologyled economic development; and workforce development strategies. As highly competent economic development professionals, Certified Economic Developers work with public officials, business leaders and community members to create leadership to build upon and maximize the economic development sector. Excellence in the economic development profession improves the wellbeing, quality of life and opportunities for individuals, businesses and communities. There are more than 1,100 active CEcDs in the United States.

Community

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

Henry Salinas took in the ICAN Talent Show.

ICAN wraps up summer of fun ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth wrapped up a summer of fun activities with the close of the summer session on July 22. ICAN’s summer programming is supported by the Arizona Community Foundation. Youth at ICAN enjoyed daily activities including art, computer room, structured sports, STEM learning activities and a reading program through ICAN’s library. Youth had the chance to once again attend the DPR School of Construction, where they learned about the construction industry and participated in hands-on building projects. ICAN’s Movie Makers Club was in full-swing and produced a full-length music video to “Our House,” which featured all of the great things ICAN offers. Youth that earned “stars of the week” honors had the chance to visit the Microsoft Store at Chandler Fashion Center and play with all of the latest technology. Youth even enjoyed a visit from Chandler Fire and got a good soaking from their truck. ICAN teens were not left out of mix. The teens went swimming once a week at local Chandler pools where a couple of teens started taking swimming lessons to learn that valuable skill. The teens also participated in a “lock-in” at ICAN with teens from the Boys & Girls Club Compadre Branch—complete with movies and s’mores. The teens also

started up some new programs, including “Speak Up” public speaking, “Poetry of Rap” group and S.E.L.F.I.E.—started by an ICAN alumni, this group focuses on teen issues and how to make the best of every situation and grow as a person. The summer wrapped up on Friday, July 22, with a talent show that enjoyed a special guest—ICAN founder, Henry Salinas. ICAN is a free, family-centered youth service in the East Valley. It provides a full complement of programs proven effective in equipping youth to achieve personal and academic success by tackling substance abuse, gang involvement and juvenile delinquency. Specifically, 8 out of 10 young people in the areas they serve are living in extreme poverty. Four of those children will go to bed hungry at night and eight will be using drugs or alcohol to cope with the harsh realities they face. Joining gangs becomes a more viable choice than graduation in the community ICAN serves. ICAN exists to combat these issues and build a strong future for our community. ICAN is accredited by the National Council on Accreditation and was recently named “Outstanding After School Program” by the Arizona Center for After School Excellence. For more information about ICAN, call 480-8214207 or visit icanaz.org.

Youth enjoy a DPR School of Construction visit.

ICAN teens went swimming this summer.

JEWELRY GALLERY & CLOCK SHOP

DONE RIGHT THE FIRST TIME!

Your all occasion Jeweler

conniesjewelrygalleryandclockshop.com

Our house cleaning staff is bonded, insured, uniformed, trained and supervised. We pay attention to the detail at no extra charge. Call us to get your FREE Home or Business Quote!

Clocks are required by the manufacturer to be oiled every two years and cleaned every five to seven years. Have YOU forgotten about your CLOCK? If you have not had your clock serviced, you may be damaging the gears, pinions and plates in your clock!

• Professional $ • Affordable 35 Off $25 Off $25 Off Detail Home and Window • Licensed Cleaning Organizing Washing • Reliable • Residential & CALL Commercial TODAY!

480-786-3838

IS YOUR 10% APPRAISAL OFF OUT OF DATE? Any

Now at Connie’s Service Call Certified

This picture reflects dust, dirt and oil build up on a clock movement not serviced within seven years. Oils break down and collect dirt much like the oil in your car engine breaks down. If not serviced, this causes excess wear on the parts.

$3.99

Watch Watch Battery Battery && Installation Installation

Limit Limit 1. 1. Excludes Excludes lithium lithium batteries. batteries. With With ad. ad. Cash price. Exp.8-31-2016 10-3-14 Cash price. Exp.

CALL & SETUP YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

480-883-3320 1900 W. Germann, Suite #15

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10a.m.-6p.m., Sat. 10a.m.-4p.m.

WE’VE MOVED ONE BLOCK WEST, NEXT TO UNCLE BEARS, OREGANO’S & B.L.D. CORNER OF DOBSON AND GERMANN AT THE PECOS SHOPS

With ad. Appraisals New orders. Exp. 10-3-14 Only $65

Community

www.SanTanSun.com

August 6 - 19, 2016

Funding available for special events The city’s Special Events Sponsorship Program is accepting applications from nonprofit organizations that would like funding support for hosting special events in the community. Each year since 2002, the City Council has approved $30,000 in funding to be allocated to organizations that present quality special events in Chandler. Funding will be awarded to qualifying events that enhance the community through such areas as cultural and educational enrichment, diversity and heritage, community pride and economic vitality. “The City Council understands the need for outstanding community events, but also the hard work and resources that go into producing quality festivals,” said Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. “These grants are one small way we can help the groups that work so hard to organize these events.” Applications are available online at chandleraz.gov/special-events and must be returned to the city’s special event coordinator by 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 18. A panel of six citizens who serve on city-appointed boards and commissions will review the applications. The panel recommendations will then be submitted to the Chandler Cultural Foundation for approval. Awards will be announced at the end of September.

Arizona Railway Day was one of 14 events that received special event funding from the city last year.

Last year, 14 organizations received funding for events that included the Arizona Classic Jazz Festival, Miss Indian

Arizona Scholarship Program, Ostrich Festival 5K Fun Run, Arizona Railway Day and others.

For more information or to receive an application, call 480-782-2665 or go online to chandleraz.gov/special-events.

A Leader in Full Service, High-Tech Dentistry Family owned and operated since 1981

Just received new colors, styles and tons more pots! LOWEST PRICES, LARGEST SELECTION! HUGE SELECTION OF OVERSIZED POTTERY! PET FRIENDLY! — C L O S E D T U E S D AY S —

480-802-1309

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

Southern Chandler Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. - 5p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Showroom

Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

• Fountains • Benches • Bird Baths • Ceramics • Stoneware • Wrought Iron • Oversized Pottery • Metal Wall Decor • Indoor/Outdoor Decor • Much More!

I Love to

Smile! COTIL TILL LO L LAKES AKES O CO DENTAL HEALTH

A Team of Professionals Here to Help You Smile Porsche Chandler. Now open on Gilbert Road. A luxury experience encompassing Sales, Service, Parts and Accessories fueled by the passion and intelligent performance that is uniquely Porsche. Showcasing the finest selection of New, Certified and Pre-Owned Porsche models. Conveniently located North of the Santan 202 Freeway on Gilbert Road in Chandler, Arizona.

Please visit our website for new vehicle inventory.

Porsche Chandler 1010 S. Gilbert Rd. Chandler, AZ 85286 (480) 994-9000 PorscheChandler.com

Cosmetic Smile Enhancements Veneers & Porcelain Crowns

Implants

Placement & Crowns

Root Canal Therapy Therapeutic Botox & Filler Treatments Sleep Apnea, Snoring Treatments Afraid of Dentists? Nitrous Oxide Sedation Available

You have options! • Implants • Crowns • Veneers • Zoom Teeth Whitening Ask us how we can help you smile! Call Today

(480) 878-5570 Dr. C. Martin Farnsworth, DMD Dr. Derek Farnsworth, DMD 3200 S. Alma School Road • Chandler, AZ

www.ocotillodentalhealth.com We accept most insurance plans, credit cards, & E-Z payment plans, o.a.c.

Community

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

Family Owned and Operated Visit Our Exclusive State-Of-The-Art Subaru Facility!

• Over 350 New Subaru, Certified & Pre-Owned Vehicles • Complimentary Subaru Service Loaner Vehicles AS LOW AS

FINANCING

ON REMAINING 2016 SUBARU MODELS

2016 Subaru Outback

6'!!!/132

�PG EPA Est. Highway

�Maintain �the Love COMPLIMENTARY MAINTENANCE

SUBARU.

SUPERSTORE of Chandler

1050 S. Gilbert Rd., ;-t--1 ___, Chandler, AZ 85286 �

480.222.6000

�-C HAN-D!ER ""_VD

PECOS RD*

SALES

•

SERVICE

•

PARTS

SANTANFWY

As low as 0% APR Financing on all new 2016 Legacy models for up to 63 months. As low as 0% APR Financing on all new 2016 Forester & Outback models for up to 48 months. Finance offers plus tax, title, license, and $369 doc fee. All offers on approved credit thru Subaru Motors Finance. Offers expire 8/31 /16.

Community

www.SanTanSun.com

August 6 - 19, 2016

‘Space Dogs’ party set for Ultrastar Multi-tainment Center Animal Welfare League several months ago to help spread the word and find more homes for dogs “We’ve partnered with the Arizona Animal Welfare League and they’ve been helping us a lot,” Van Es said. “Now they have a store in Chandler Fashion Center and almost all of the dogs in Chandler mall are #LovePup dogs.” The Ultrastar event will feature petfriendly vendors, character meet and greets and movie promo giveaways. There are plenty of family-friendly events outside of the theater. Vendors will be available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

BY CONNOR DZIAWURA

When Johnjay Van Es found a stray Chihuahua, he immediately posted a note on social media in the hopes of finding the dog its forever home. But it went beyond that. Van Es, and his morning show partner Rich, had already established the #LoveUp campaign, which inspires listeners to be positive and pay it forward. After the dog was adopted, a supporter suggested Van Es use #LovePup to help animals. “So, under the umbrella of Johnjay & Rich Care for Kids, #LoveUp and #LovePup exist and we sell shirts. That’s how we raise money,” Van Es said. The Johnjay & Rich Care for Kids

is teaming up with the Arizona Animal Welfare League for an event celebrating the release of “Space Dogs: Adventure to the Moon” on Aug. 26 at Ultrastar Multi-tainent Center in Maricopa. Directed by veteran Disney animator Mike Disa, the animated film is set to screen Friday, Aug. 26, for National Dog Day, through Sunday, Aug. 28. The JohnJay & Rich event starts at noon Saturday, Aug. 27. “Space Dogs: Adventure to the Moon” is the newest animated film in the familyfriendly “Space Dogs” series, which had previously included “Space Dogs 3D,” as well as a television series. Johnjay & Rich joined the Arizona

“Our goal is to really host an event for people that have not been to the building yet and get to really see what we’re all about, as well as reaching back out to the community,” said Ultrastar Manager Dan Terry. The Arizona Animal Welfare League is sponsoring animal adoptions at the premiere. “We’re doing everything we can to save kids and dogs,” said Van Es. Ultrastar Multi-tainment Center is located at 16000 N. Maricopa Rd., Maricopa. For more information, visit ultrastarakchin.com.

DEADLINES FOR SANTAN SUN NEWS: AUGUST 6 The deadline for news and advertising is 12 p.m. Thursday, July 28, for the Saturday, Aug. 6, 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.

Summertime is the right time

to remove wisdom teeth

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

Wisdom teeth removal

Contracted with most insurances No Insurance • No Problem Let Us Help! Nish Shah, D.M.D., M.D. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Specialtist in Dental Implants

Board Certified, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

PROCEDURES Dental Implants • Wisdom Teeth • Bone Grafting Facial Trauma • Reconstructive Jaw Surgery • Sleep Apnea Gum Grafting • TMJ Disorders • Oral Pathology

Board Certified, American Society of Dental Anesthesiology

2 015

2 014

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.

Quality care, with Compassion and Concern.

480.814.9500 | 2450 W. Ray Road, Suite 1 Chandler AZ 85224 | www.azoral.com

August 6 - 19, 2016

Community

www.SanTanSun.com

Chandler Olympic gymnast recalls her gold-medal life on her way to Rio BY MADISON RUTHERFORD

Ever since Amanda Borden captained the first American women’s gymnastics team to win an Olympic gold medal, her life has been nothing short of a balancing act. Called the “Magnificent Seven,” Borden and her six teammates took home the gold in Atlanta in 1996, when Borden was 19. Two decades later, Borden is a wife, mother and owner of Gold Medal Gymnastics in Chandler and Tempe. Leading up to the summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in August, Borden invited several other Olympians to her gym for her “Olympic Heroes” series to meet and inspire young gymnasts. This summer, guests met 2012 gold medalists Jordyn Wieber and Kyla Ross and 2008 silver medalist Samantha Peszek. On Saturday, her final guest was Carly Patterson, 2004 gold medalist and one of four U.S. female Olympic All-Around Champions. “When you hear a lot of Olympians talk about their journey to the Olympics, they talk about other Olympians,” Borden said. “When you hear their stories, their journey, their struggles, they’re very relatable.” Borden started gymnastics in 1984 when she was seven years old. She said it was a surreal experience to become an Olympic hero overnight, recalling the strange juxtaposition of signing hundreds of autographs after having a quiet dinner with her family. She noted that the 1996 Olympics were “a big movement

for women’s sports and the success of female athletes.” Borden is known for her effervescent energy and positive attitude, but the gymnast has had just as many tribulations as she has triumphs. “In 1992, I ended up at Olympic trials and finished seventh. I technically made the team, but due to politics I was taken off the team,” Borden recalled. “I decided at that point that if four years later, I was still in the mix, I would definitely give it another shot.” Borden graduated high school in 1995, which meant she had a big decision to make. She wanted to go to college, but was still chasing her dreams of being an Olympic gymnast. “Gymnastics is tough in general. In that moment, I learned a lot about doing what you love, not necessarily focusing on something just for a result,” Borden said. She said her enthusiasm and determination come from her parents, instilled in her during her formative years. “They were very adamant about themselves and about my brother and me choosing things we enjoyed doing,” Borden said. She said people often ask her if her children will take up gymnastics. Without skipping a beat, Borden said all her children will participate in some type of sport because “sport parallels life.” “Through sport, we learn a lot about life,” Borden said. “You learn to respect others, to be part of a team, to work

hard, to fall down and get back up, to never give up, to persevere, and to set personal goals.” In 2003, Borden graduated from ASU with a teaching degree. She began teaching and ran an afterschool gymnastics program. In 2004, opened the first Gold Medal Gymnastics. Borden will be in Rio in August to be a gymnastics commentator. She said she’s excited to keep everyone in the loop about the sport and community she loves. “I would call them my role models and my heroes, but they’re also my friends. Everyone has such a complete respect for each other,” Borden said of the gymnastics community. Though Borden has had many accomplishments in her life, making Olympic history with six other women was one of the most empowering and inspiring experiences for her. “I think what’s so unique about an Olympic experience is that there were only seven of us that experienced that moment,” she said. “That in itself makes it just magical to us, and to so many people.”

Amanda Borden and her six teammates, called the “Magnificent Seven,” took home the gold in Atlanta in 1996, when she was 19 years old.

Community

www.SanTanSun.com

LUXURY LIVING AT ITS FINEST Montaverde is an all-new gated luxury home community in the heart of Gilbert. These single story homes feature the Summit Collection with open-floor concepts and impeccable designs. Montaverde provides close proximity to shopping, dining, and entertainment options including San Tan Village marketplace, as well as convenient access to the 202 San Tan Freeway. Explore Montaverde today!

FEATURES • • • • •

2708 to 3534 Sq. Ft. Up to 6 Bedrooms Up to 4 Baths ALL Single Story 3 to 4 Car Garage

STOP BY AND TOUR OUR MODEL HOMES 2840 E. La Costa Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298 Open Wed-Sun 10 to 6 pm; Fri 1 to 6 pm; Mon,Tues closed

Pricing from the mid $300’s

taylormorrison.com/arizona | 480.346.1738 All information (including, but not limited to prices, availability, incentives, floor plans, site plans, features, standards and options, assessments and fees, planned amenities, programs, conceptual artists’ renderings and community development plans) is not guaranteed and remains subject to change or delay without notice. Maps and plans are not to scale and all dimensions are approximate. No binding offer to sell or lease may be made or accepted prior to the issuance of the final AZ Subdivision Public Report for the Community. A public report is available at the AZ Real Estate Department’s website. Not an offer to sell or lease where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. Please see a Sales Associate for details or visit www.taylormorrison.com for additional disclaimers. Taylor Morrison/Arizona, Inc., ROC # 179178B. © July 2016, TM Homes of Arizona, Inc., AZ DRE # CO535669000. All rights reserved.

August 6 - 19, 2016

Community

www.SanTanSun.com

StreetLightUSA helps young victims of sex trafficking BY SRIANTHI PERERA

Tribune Staff Writer Broken bones from beatings, stressinduced illnesses, drug addiction, lack of trust and a feeling of hopelessness are hardly the stuff of adolescent dreams. But these are the typical issues confronting the children ages 11 to 17 at StreetLightUSA, a residential center that provides a one-of-a-kind program of care and healing to girls who have been trafficked for sex. The numbers of these victims are rising. At any given time, up to 300,000 youths are being trafficked in the U.S. The average age of entry into the sex trade is 12 to 14, according to Shared Hope International, a Washington state-based non-profit. From 2011 to 2015, the center has served about 450 girls. Despite the numbers, resources to help victims haven’t increased, center officials said. “No federal grants are available” to help the victims, said Lea Benson, president of StreetLightUSA. “There are (federal grants) for international kids, but there aren’t any for domestic kids.” “We think it doesn’t happen here in the United States, that it happens in other countries,” said Carla Grace, the center’s therapist and counselor. “But it is huge here and the awareness is low.” As these children’s stories come to light, the local faith community, educational institutions, private citizens and even cities are beginning to step up efforts to spread the word. At the same time, lawmakers are working to create harsher penalties for the perpetrators. Soon, Chandler Mayor Jay Tibshraeny will to issue a proclamation and Councilmember Rene Lopez will to host a show on the topic. Recently, the Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family announced new guidelines to develop a regional response to youth sex trafficking. On October 29, several non-profit organizations in the southeast Valley are collaborating to organize a fundraising gala at Wild Horse Pass. Among the

These cottages accommodate 24 victims of sex trafficking. With a $100,000 grant from the Thunderbirds Charities, about 60 girls may be housed.

participants is the Women Rising female empowerment network at ChandlerGilbert Community College. “It is a concern of our students here at the college. Our female students in particular have expressed concerns about what is going on involving sex trafficking,” said Dr. William Crawford, vice president for Student Affairs. Crawford said that the other Women Rising groups in the rest of the Maricopa County Community College District have also been tapped to participate in the cause. For the past three years, volunteer Joyce Vogt has helped organize a ball at the Hope Covenant Church in Chandler. “We decided this year to expand the event and make it more of a mainstream, public event,” she said. The goal is to sell 350 tickets and raise at least $50,000 for the center, with funds to go toward

StreetLightUSA’s Choices program was devised by its participants. It’s symbolized by charms called the Key to Change, World of Opportunities, Wings to Soar and StreetLightUSA.

general operating expenses. Vogt has been volunteering to benefit the center for eight years. “I have a passion for this issue because I just can’t believe this happens in our country,” she said. Upon learning about StreetLightUSA at a human sex trafficking conference in 2008, Chandler resident Gina La Benz organized a Girl Scouts group to help the center. “It’s horrible that it happens in our backyard,” she said. StreetLightUSA began in 2007 in Arizona as a grassroots effort to help homeless and runaway children who were also commercially exploited for sex. When law enforcement officials found such children at the time, they had no place to put them except in juvenile detention, Benson said. Housing is scarce for these traumatized victims, and sometimes it’s unsafe to keep them in their home states because of the probability of being rediscovered by their pimps. Many of the children ran away from homes that offered them little protection; sending them back home was not an option. A group began studying the issue, looked at existing laws and how they could be tightened to punish the offenders. Helped by a $750,000 state grant and a network of 70 churches nationwide and led locally by Central Christian Church and Christ’s Church of the Valley, the center was established in 2011 in Peoria. The organization’s board of directors adopted a three-pronged strategy to fight child sex trafficking: awareness, prevention and direct care. Today, StreetLightUSA has become an international model that differs from regular homes in the country for its allencompassing approach. Not just a place to obtain the basic necessities of life; residents are helped to recover and to advance, as its slogan indicates, “from trauma to triumph.” The girls participate in the optional Choices program, which was formulated by survivors themselves and consists of

three phases: stabilization, growth and independence, with corresponding programming. Participants wear a colorful bracelet symbolizing the Key to Change, World of Opportunities, Wings to Soar and StreetLightUSA. Participation in Choices is optional because the youth are traumatized. “They don’t even recognize that they’ve been victimized,” Grace said. “Ninety-nine percent of them have been sexually molested at home. How do they know that someone touching their body is not normal?” Staff members also come across children who have been trafficked by their parents. “We have a child right now whose mom exchanged her for money to pay an electric bill,” Benson said. “The child doesn’t know any different; to her, that is normal.” The Peoria facility’s six cottages are currently licensed for 24 beds as funding allows. However, with a $100,000 grant from the Thunderbirds Charities, funds are in place to expand the cottages to house 60. Plans call for a multi-use building on an adjoining plot of land that will house a school and transitional housing. Over the next five years, the facility hopes to partner with an existing charter school and a transitional housing organization, Benson said. Sometimes, out of the blue, Benson receives calls from former residents who have gone on to build successful lives. “It’s very rewarding to know that you can make a difference to these kids who are considered throwaway kids,” she said. However, not every story has a fairytale ending. “I’m not going to sugar-coat it and say we’ve met with success with every child,” Benson said. “We don’t.” People who want to volunteer can contact Joyce Vogt at joyce@ streetlightusa.org or call 520-505-1690.

Business

www.SanTanSun.com

August 6 - 19, 2016

AT&T enhances, expands towers for faster network in East Valley

Chandler’s Rick Barrow rigs a rooftop unit to be craned to a rooftop.

The heat is on air conditioning repair companies during summer, most business owners agree BY DAVID M. BROWN

It doesn’t get any hotter this time of year than it does for air conditioning repair companies in Arizona. Just ask Tom Savage and Tim Riley, who each own one. “With the extreme heat we have been experiencing, we have been very busy,” said Savage, owner of Tempebased Savage Air Conditioning. Founded in 1988, his family-owned company provides residential service, repair and system replacement. In the summer, a technician is on call evenings and weekends, and an after-hours answering service is in place yearround. Brewer’s Air Conditioning & Heating, which Riley owns, also feels the heat from homeowners who hit the panic button when the thermostat starts creeping upward. “Either the A/C is not working well

or has totally stopped working,” said Riley, whose Tempe-based business was started by Jerry Brewer in 1982. Riley moved to the Valley with his wife and two daughters from Newton, Iowa, where he had worked in the HVAC and plumbing business since 1978. He became a sales consultant for Brewer’s, and 10 years ago, went in with a partner to purchase the business. His company primarily services, repairs and installs residential HVAC systems. Record-breaking Valley heat is making for record-breaking business, they said. The average daily temperature last month in the Phoenix area was 94.8 degrees, tying with June 2013 as the warmest June ever, said Dave Samuel,

AT&T has upgraded 38 cell towers on its 4G LTE network in the East Valley to give residents faster, more reliable wireless service. The upgraded cell towers in Mesa (15), Tempe (11), Chandler (seven), Gilbert (four) and Queen Creek (one) will help customers get the most out of their mobile devices. With 4G LTE service, they’ll see better service when watching videos, posting to social media or texting family and friends. “We want our East Valley customers to have a great experience. They’ll be able to download, upload, stream and play games faster than ever before on our 4G LTE network,” said Jerry Fuentes, president of AT&T Arizona and New Mexico. “We’re always working to provide better coverage. And we’re investing in our wireless network to accomplish that.” AT&T has invested $350 million in its Phoenix area wireless and wired networks during 2013-15. These investments drive a wide range of upgrades to reliability, coverage, speed and overall performance for residents and businesses. They also enhance critical services that support

public safety and first responders. AT&T constantly invests in its network to give customers the high-quality services they need to stay connected. This helps East Valley residents get the best possible experience over the AT&T network, whether at home, at work or on the go.

The Amy Jones Group of Re/Max Infinity named among ‘America’s Best’ The Amy Jones Group of Re/Max Infinity Realty is featured in the 2016 REAL Trends “America’s Best Real Estate Agents” survey for the fourth year. The agents included in the survey represent the top 1% of all real estate professionals in the United States. This year’s fourth annual “America’s Best” is based on homes sold in 2015 and is the industry’s largest ranking of agents. “Our No. 1 priority is to help

our clients have the best possible experience when selling or buying a home,” Jones said. “Being recognized alongside so many hard working and dedicated real estate professionals is an accomplishment, and my team is honored to be named among ‘America’s Best.’” The Amy Jones Group has more than 100 combined years of experience in the East Valley market.

see AIR CONDITIONING page 23

Chandler Allstate agents raise $7,000 NexMetro Communities opens Avilla in grants for local nonprofits Grace rental-home community Phoenix-based NexMetro Communities, which builds leased-home neighborhoods, has opened Avilla Grace in Chandler. Boasting more than 194 luxury home sites with high-end amenities, each detached single family home will give consumers the opportunity to have all the convenience of home ownership, but without the hassle of costs and maintenance that often coincides with buying and owning a new property. “Following the real estate turmoil of the late 2000s, we’ve seen a seismic shift in how consumers are approaching everyday living,” said Josh Hartmann, NexMetro’s executive vice president. “Growing numbers of home seekers are looking for convenience, flexibility and upscale lifestyle amenities that properties like Avilla Grace can offer, all while avoiding the burdens of home ownership, such as long-term commitment and

financial obligations.” This is the second Avilla Homes neighborhood in the Valley, joining Avilla Palm Valley in Goodyear. NexMetro has future plans to develop four new neighborhoods in Chandler, Gilbert and Queen Creek later this year. Avilla Grace is located at 2136 N. Grace Blvd., on the northwest corner of North Grace Boulevard and West Warner Road at Shawnee Park. The Avilla Grace neighborhood will feature one-, two- and three-bedroom homes, featuring private backyards, 10-foot ceilings, granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, a resort-style pool and a gated entrance to the neighborhood. One- and two-year leases are available rates are $985 for a one-bedroom home up to $1,500 for a three-bedroom house. For more information, visit avillahomes.com.

The volunteer efforts of Chandler Allstate exclusive agency owners Jacque Riggs, Joe West, Joe Kennedy and Kevin Lum helped secure a total of $7,000 in grants from The Allstate Foundation to support five local nonprofits. Hamilton High School baseball, St. Joseph’s Youth Camp and the National Association of Asian American Professionals each received $1,000; and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and Junior Achievement of Arizona each received $2,000. “Commitment to our communities is a natural extension of what we do every day—protecting people from life’s uncertainties and preparing them for the future,” said Denis Bailey, Allstate’s field senior vice president in Arizona. “With support from The Allstate Foundation, these local nonprofits’ work can continue

Kevin Lum

Jacque Riggs

making the Phoenix area’s communities stronger.” These five nonprofits are a part of 3,500 organizations this year that will receive The Allstate Foundation Helping Hands in the Community grants secured by agency owners on behalf of organizations for which they volunteer. The grants support nonprofits focused on teen safe driving, disaster preparedness, hunger and other causes. This year, the see ALLSTATE page 23

August 6 - 19, 2016

Business

<O 2016 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of traffic laws at all times.

Porsche Chandler. Now open on Gilbert Road. A luxury experience encompassing Sales, Service, Parts and Accessories fueled by the passion and intelligent performance that is uniquely Porsche. Showcasing the finest selection of New, Certified and Pre-Owned Porsche models. Conveniently located North of the Santan 202 Freeway on Gilbert Road in Chandler, Arizona.

Please visit our website for vehicle inventory.

Porsche Chandler 1010 S. Gilbert Rd. Chandler, AZ 85286 (480) 994-9000 PorscheChandler.com

www.SanTanSun.com

www.SanTanSun.com AIR CONDITIONING FROM page 21

senior meteorologist for AccuWeather. The highest monthly temperature was 118 on June 19, and six daily record high temperatures were set last month, he added. “In our business, we run across a variety of air-conditioning issues. Every day brings something different,” said Savage, who worked for General Electric, Trane and APS before starting his company. It’s not just worn out parts of electrical malfunctions that cause airconditioner meltdowns. In Ahwatukee, Riley’s company has dealt with rodents that chew the wiring on the condensing units. His team has also contended with rattlesnakes, rats and dogs urinating on outdoor units and deteriorating the outdoor coil. “We’ve also seen children playing near outdoor units throwing items at them, causing severe damage,” he said. Structural challenges also confront them at times. For the first time in 28 years of business, Riley also has had to remove a ceiling to access an air handler. “There was absolutely no way to access the air handler. Once it was replaced, the ceiling was rebuilt with an access to it,” he added. Riley has also encountered homes and businesses that were built with little or no access to equipment. “This has required major structural

Business or drywall repairs to replace equipment when they are required to be replaced,” he said The calls for help that Riley and Savage get are replicated at other area air-conditioning repair companies. “We’re getting about 150−200 calls per week,” said Andrew John, general manager of Mesa-based John’s Refrigeration, a family-owned business since 1970. John’s Refrigeration has won awards through the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce. “The symptom is always the same— no cooling—but many problems cause the same result,” he explained, noting that emergency breakdowns can often be avoided with proper maintenance. Rich Morgan, president of Magic Touch Mechanical in Mesa, said he’s never seen it this busy. “The volume of calls this year is unprecedented. In almost 20 years serving the Valley of the Sun, 2016 is without question the busiest year we have ever had,” said Morgan, whose company was founded in 1997. Many calls end up with new units. Morgan said the dramatic increase in the volume of those calls may be the result of post-recession pent-up demand. He said many units were kept running beyond their expected lifespan and now are failing, and consumers feel more comfortable with the economy and are replacing rather than repairing. “We’ve also had not only recordbreaking heat this year, but it also

August 6 - 19, 2016

came earlier than usual,” said Morgan. “Air-conditioner components are being pushed to their design limits this year.” Morgan said that when he moved here in the 1990s from New York City, he recognized immediately that airconditioning is not a luxury in the Valley as it might be considered by some in the Big Apple. He worked for two Phoenix HVAC contractors, then opened Magic Touch. The solution to a failing system isn’t always the same, everyone agrees. Sometimes, the problem is with the system, but often it’s elsewhere, with duct leakage, sub-par attic insulation, electrical malfunctions or, an increasing occurrence, refrigerant leaks, Riley said. Often, it’s best not to patch an old unit, especially in the challenging desert. John’s Refrigeration recently serviced a new Chandler customer who needed an $1,800 repair to an eightyear-old unit. “After four hours of work, the repair was completed, and when we turned the unit on, the new part was bad,” John said. “Because of the multiple problems, we went to the manufacturer and were able to get the customer a huge discount on a complete new unit. In the end, the customer got a brand-new unit with a 10-year warranty, and they were out of pocket less than $3,000,” he said.

• • • • • •

FOR YOUR ARTIFICIAL GRASS & ACCESSORIES

Vehicle registration Title transfer Duplicate registration / title Replacement plate or TAB Permit 3 day, 30 day and 90 day Level one inspection: bond title, title inspection, abandoned title inspection

ALLSTATE FROM page 21

foundation will grant as much as $7.5 million to nonprofits across the country. The Helping Hands grants are an example of Allstate’s tradition of service: • In the past 20 years, Allstate employees, agency owners and their staffs have donated more than $368 million and more than 4 million volunteer hours to charitable causes. • 63% of Allstate employees participated in the company’s 2016 Bring Out the Good Month workplace giving program, which raised more than $7.1 million in contributions. More than 8,800 nonprofit organizations benefited from this fundraising effort. Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation. Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people’s well-being and prosperity. With a focus on building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, empowering youth and celebrating the charitable community involvement of Allstate agency owners and employees, The Allstate Foundation works to bring out the good in people’s lives. For more information, visit AllstateFoundation.org.

• Mobile home • Handicap placard / plate • MVR: 3 year uncertified, 5 year certified • Driver license record: 3 year uncertified, 5 year certified • Fleet registration

2040 S. Alma School Rd., #23, Chandler, AZ 85286

221 E. Willis Road, Bldg A, Suite 2 Chandler, AZ 85286

480-855-1638 Fax: 480-855-1639 WWW.MVD3P.COM

(Arizona Avenue & 202, South of Sam’s Club)

480.726.2411 www.ArtificialGrassSuperstore.com

ROC # 205797

Serving Chandler Homeowners Associations ROBB LIPSEY, PRESIDENT, CAAM, AMS, PCAM

480.704.2900 premieraz.com

3930 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 10, Chandler AZ

Business

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

Chamber hosts ribbon cutting, golf outing Public Policy Series 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 12 Speaker: Reps. Bob Robson and Jill Norgaard Registration required Throughout the year, the Chandler Chamber of Commerce offers a variety of luncheons and meetings for its members and the community. Events are held at the Chandler Chamber of Commerce office, 25 S. Arizona Pl., Suite 201, unless otherwise noted. To register, call 480-963-4571, visit chandlerchamber.com or email info@chandlerchamber.com. No refunds are available within 72 hours of the event. Ribbon Cutting for Legacy Traditional School 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8 Join the Chandler Chamber at this ribbon cutting sponsored by Laser Creations. 1900 N. McQueen Rd. Chandler Southwest corner of McQueen and Warner roads Wake Up Chandler 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10 Office Depot 2700 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler

Google Self Driving Car Open House 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13 SoHo 63 63 E. Boston St., Chandler Southeast corner of Boston Street and Arizona Avenue Public is welcome Lunch Club 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Monday, Aug 15 Social Box 1371 N. Alma School Rd.,, Chandler East side of Alma School Road between Warner and Ray roads $10 all-inclusive lunch for Chamber members Registration required Women in Business Luncheon Noon to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 16 This month Sandra Saenz, CEO of Dream Team Communications and 2016 Phoenix Suns’ Woman of the Year, will present, “Five Secrets to Your Personal Power.” SoHo 63, 63 E. Boston St. Chandler Registration required

Mark H. Wilson, M.D. and Lois Henderson, FNP—We welcome new patients!

Chandler Family Practice, P.C. Our job is to keep your family healthy!

QUALITY MEDICAL CARE FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS. Routine medical care, physical examinations, sports physicals, minor surgical procedures, pediatric and women’s care, internal medicine and diabetes. —Same Day Appointments—

480-963-9334

MyChandlerFamilyPractice.com Most Insurances Accepted. Se habla español. 1076 W. Chandler Blvd., Ste. 113 • Chandler • NW Corner Alma School & Chandler

Over 200 New, Certified, & Pre-Owned Acura Models

www.AcuraOfTempe.com | Give us a Call Today! 480.344.5800 7800 S. Autoplex Loop Tempe, AZ 85284 Off The I-10 & Elliot at the Tempe Autoplex

Business

www.SanTanSun.com

August 6 - 19, 2016

Perry grad named marketing assistant at Inspire Business Concepts Inspire Business Concepts has hired a marketing assistant to help with managing customer activities. Perry High School graduate Sydney Madsen has joined the Phoenix-based strategic marketing company to build client-facing processes to streamline workflows and improve outcomes. She also will be working with clients, helping them to manage the activities associated with marketing engagements. “We love that Sydney is bold and that her life experiences allow her to contribute so many ideas to benefit our clients,” said Brian Gatti, partner and co-founder of Inspire Business Concepts. “She exemplifies the notion of working hard and self-determination as proven by her success as a top ranked athlete through high school and college, and through her adventurous spirit having traveled the world. We’re thrilled to add her to the Inspire Business Concepts team.” Madsen attended Orem High School in Utah during her sophomore and junior years where she played third singles on the 2009 state winning women’s tennis team. During her senior year she left her family in Utah to attend Perry and subsequently Mesa Community College on a presidential and tennis scholarship. Madsen played on the MCC’s women’s

Gonzalez joins Western State Bank

Sydney Madsen

tennis team for two years where she won the regional title for her division and helped the team place 11th in the NJCAA. After finishing her business associates degree, she transferred to ASU. She began working at Inspire Business Concepts in May and expects to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in business law and a Bachelor of Science in marketing in 2017.

Vanessa Gonzalez recently joined Western State Bank as an assistant vice president/retail banking manager in Chandler. Her duties include providing custom financial solutions to current and potential personal customers through loans and deposit products while overseeing the retail banking team in Chandler. Gonzalez is familiar with all areas of the Valley, having more than 14 years of banking experience in Peoria, Sun City, Phoenix and Chandler. Born in Puerto Rico, she grew up in Peoria and Avondale, where she resides with her daughter. Western State Bank is a 114-year-old, employee-owned, community bank with assets totaling over $850 million. The bank offers superior full-banking services, investments, real estate financing, personal and business customers, as well as nationwide equipment financing services. Western State Bank’s Arizona bank locations are in Chandler, Casa Grande, Scottsdale and Sun City.

Vanessa Gonzalez

MARK for chandler city council • vote august 30, 2016

a bold vision for chandler

MARK

#INNOVATE #INSPIRE #THRIVE paid for by mark stewart for chandler +1 (480) 930-2247

MARK-STEWART-AD-10x6.6-HALF-07-25.indd 2

SERVANT LEADERSHIP PROTECT THE TAXPAYER BUILD COMMUNITY EMPOWER BUSINESS PEOPLE OVER POLITICS Endorsed by:

Chandler Firefighters Jerry Brooks – Former Mayor of Chandler Chandler Chamber of Commerce Home Builders Association of Central Arizona Eddie Basha lll – Chairman Bashas’ grocery stores Terry Roe – Current Chandler Councilmember Martin Sepulveda – Former Chandler Councilmember Many citizen and community leader endorsements at stewart4chandler.com

7/25/16 10:29 AM

Business

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

VOLVO CARS TEMPE

VOLVO CERTIFIED PRE·OWNED

fBlVOLVO i..g}

o/Tempe

8060S.AUTOPLEXLOOP TEMPE, AZ 85 284

480•94) • 2400 SALES - SERVICE - PARTS

1-10 & ELLIOT ROAD IN THE TEMPE AUTOPLEX

Youth

www.SanTanSun.com

August 6-19, 2016

New Kyrene superintendent’s motto: Work hard, be nice BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA

When Kyrene School District Superintendent Jan Vesely officially began her duties July 1, the first item she hung on her office walls was not one of her many degrees. It was a simple plaque that she said reflects her philosophy not only in education but in life: “Work hard and be nice to people.” Vesely, selected from a field of 31 to succeed David Schauer, hit the ground running, meeting with Kyrene’s 25 principals a week before her first official day on the job. She comes to Kyrene with a bachelor’s degree in education and masters and doctoral degrees in education leadership. Kyrene’s boundaries encompass Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Guadalupe and Gila River Indian Reservation. The district serves students in kindergarten through eighth grade. “I have a very strong work ethic and I believe you accomplish more by treating others with respect,” said Vesely, the former deputy/assistant superintendent at Tucson’s Sunnyside Unified School District. “When meeting with all the principals, my driving question was,

‘What can I do to make your work more effective?’ What’s important to me as superintendent is that we are supportive of our principals and teachers so that they can be the very best. That’s where the rubber hits the road.” Born just outside the Valley in Florence, Vesely’s grandparents farmed cotton in Casa Grande. Other than four years of undergraduate studies at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, her home turf has been Tucson. As she squeezes in time to find a new home—“in the Kyrene School District, of course,” she stressed—Vesely is living at her father’s Ahwatukee residence. She acknowledged that her future as the Kyrene’s ninth superintendent since 1939 includes a big learning curve. But because she has been involved in education in a variety of roles since her 1977 graduation from NAU, she’s confident that she has the background to handle the job. Vesely began her career fresh out of NAU as a teacher at Tucson’s Amphitheater High School and later served as executive of community schools for the see JAN VESELY page 29

Kyrene School District superintendent Jan Vesely works with fourth-grader Lucas Gardner during a summer program.

Linda Chan and Ken Chan, who own FutureKiddie and also teach, talk with Huy Phan and Van Phan, who own the Goddard School in Gilbert.

STEM program expands discounted computers, IT services for schools Kyrene School District Assistant Superintendent Laura Toenjes is a native of Gilbert and an alumna of Gilbert High School.

Kyrene’s new assistant chief kisses 100-mile commute goodbye BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA

For new Kyrene School District Assistant Superintendent Laura Toenjes, working in the East Valley again is like a homecoming. As she settled into her office at the district’s Tempe headquarters in early July, Toenjes (pronounced Ten-yes) said her commute to work just got a whole lot easier. For the past year, Toenjes had driven 100 miles each way five days a week from her Chandler home to Tucson where she served as director of school improvement in the Sunnyside Unified School District. In Tucson, she worked with Kyrene’s new superintendent, Jan Vesely, who was assistant superintendent for the

same district. The two had worked closely prior when Toenjes served as Arizona Department of Education deputy associate superintendent, heading the state’s school improvement unit. “I got to know Jan … I was very impressed with her leadership,” said Toenjes. Together at Sunnyside, Vesely and Toenjes helped four district schools improve test scores and strengthen teacher’s support systems through the University of Virginia’s School Turnaround Program. “When I knew Jan had been named Kyrene Superintendent and then saw the posting for assistant see LAURA TOENJES page 29

A Chandler company that teaches basic computer skills and the fundamentals of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) to children ages 3-7 is expanding by offering discounted refurbished computers and IT services to teachers and schools throughout Arizona. The FutureKiddie “Puterbugs” classes are taught on a weekly or bi-weekly basis at 19 Valley preschools, including the Wilkens Learning Center in Gilbert. The company, owned by Ken Chan and his sister Linda Chan, is offering low-cost computer equipment and support to meet the demand of budget conscious educators and schools. According to Linda Chan, who founded FutureKiddie with her brother in 2010, “Teachers were asking us all the time where they could find low-cost laptops and desktops. They needed the technology to do their jobs but often had a hard time affording it.” The Chans, who are also instructors for the FutureKiddie program, started refurbishing business-grade laptops and desktops for resale in 2011 as a hobby. They sell between 130 and 150 per computers per month throughout the United States and recently sold 32 units to a Jerome school district who contacted them on Facebook. The tech side of the company operates

under the name Ironman Refurbished Business Computers (IRBC). “We specialize in high-quality models that are built to be rugged and durable for an environment like a school, but we also have units for teachers who may need something more mobile,” he says. The units come with a one-year limited warranty, lifetime technical support, can be customized for the user and delivery is free throughout the Phoenix metro area. They added computer services to their product line earlier this year after developing strategic relationships with nationwide IT service providers. “Many schools and also businesses today can’t financially justify having an in-house IT staff. We’ve added repair and other services so we can provide a complete solution to customers.” Interested parties can call or text 480550-9078 or email info@ironmancomputers. com for available models, services and teacher and school discount information. The company also has an ecommerce site at ironmancomputers.com. For more information on IRBC visit ironmancomputers.com. To learn about the FutureKiddie “Puterbugs” program and for available class locations, visit futurekiddie.com.

Youth

August 6-19, 2016

STUDENT CHRONICLES

Know of a student who’s doing something remarkable? Send us the news to christina@santansun.com.

Chantel Haughton, a native of Chandler, has been named to the University of Iowa’s dean’s list for the 2016 spring semester. Approximately 4,500 students were named to the UI dean’s list for the 2016 spring semester. Loren M. Carrier of Chandler earned a master’s degree in architecture from Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont. Approximately 400 graduates, including 10 earning master’s degrees in architecture, received diplomas. Norwich University is a diversified academic institution that educates traditional-age students and adults in a Corps of Cadets and as civilians. Norwich offers a broad selection of traditional and distancelearning programs culminating in baccalaureate and graduate degrees. Norwich University was founded in 1819 by Capt. Alden Partridge of the U.S. Army and is the oldest private military college in the United States. It is the birthplace of the ROTC. St. Martin’s University in Lacey, Washington, has issued its spring

www.SanTanSun.com

semester 2016 dean’s list for outstanding academic achievement. McKenna Johnson of Chandler was on the list. Johnson is a senior studying biology. Two Chandler students were named to Champlain College’s president’s lists for achieving a GPA of 4.0 or higher in the spring 2016 semester. Located in Burlington, Vermont, the college honored Sean McDow and Christopher Sardynski. McDow is majoring in computer forensics and digital investigations. Sardynski is studying computer forensics and digital investigations, computer forensics and digital investigations. Founded in 1878, Champlain College is a small, not-for-profit, private college with additional campuses in Montreal, Quebec, and Dublin, Ireland. Chandler native Blake Somsen was named to the Seaver College dean’s list at Pepperdine University in Malibu. In order to earn Dean’s List honors, students must be in the upper 10% of their class and maintain a 3.5 or higher grade point average. This year Somsen is one of only 295 students to receive the honor. MCPHS University in Boston has announced that two Chandler natives are on the dean’s list for the spring 2016

semester. Alyssa Titus is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Titus will graduate in 2016 from the Worcester, Massachusetts, campus. Shamma Bhanvadia is pursuing a doctor of pharmacy. Bhanvadia will graduate in

2020 from the Boston, Massachusetts, campus. The Dean’s List recognizes those students with a full-time course load who have achieved outstanding scholarship with a 3.5 GPA or higher for the academic term.

Orthodontics Yesterday versus Today

Chamberlain Orthodontics Receives 2014 Best of Chandler Awards!

From Dr. Chamberlain’s Desktop

t has been said that you don’t know where you are or where you are going unless you know where you have been. For Orthodontics, this is especially true. There have been some very significant changes in our profession over the past years that have affected Dr. Thomas Chamberlain the way in which we treat our patients. As a professional, if I don’t keep up on these changes and be vigilant in staying abreast on the studies and the literature, if I become complacent and say to myself, “this is good enough,” or, “It’s been done this way for a long time, why change now?”, then I am not treating my patients to the best care possible. For this article, I’d like to touch briefly on one aspect of Orthodontics that has changed dramatically over the past few years. There are many other chang-

es in our profession, believe me. But this one I feel inspired to discuss today. Accelerated treatment: In the past we have been limited in the speed of tooth movement. Move teeth too fast, and you risk damaging roots and causing excessive pain. Move too slow and treatment takes forever. Today, there are some nice alternatives to speeding up the movement process without causing any harm to the teeth. The first is completely non-invasive and causes stimulation of the bone by vibratory force. Studies have shown that at a certain frequency, cells will respond with greater activity to a vibratory force, causing teeth to move faster while also inducing less pain in the process. A simple device created by Acceledent, gives the teeth a vibration for 20 minutes each day. Studies have shown that teeth can move 30 - 50% faster. A second method for increasing the rate of movement of teeth is by introducing small vent, or hole in the bone around the teeth that we want to move

Dr. Thomas Chamberlain

480-899-9423

www.SmileStraight.com www.facebook.com/smilestraight Follow us on Instagram @chamberlainorthodontics

faster. These small vents heal easily and completely, but in the process, they introduce more cellular activity to move the teeth faster. One to two procedures to create these vents in the bone is usually sufficient to move the teeth 50% faster. No home use of any appliance is necessary and most times, only a topical anesthetic is needed to create the bony vents. For those looking to move teeth more quickly, either option can bring the results you want faster. Call our office to get more information. We’d love to see you there!

Chamberlain Orthodontics transforms smiles every day…

Why not yours? Call 480-899-9423 www.smilestraight.com

Two Chandler Locations: 3800 W. Ray Road (Ray & McClintock)

1055 W. Queen Creek Rd. (Queen Creek and Alma School)

Monday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. • Tuesday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Wednesday & Thursday: 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. • Friday: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

—New Patient Offers—

FREE

($250 Value)

with Full Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic Exam and Consultation

Applies to full orthodontic treatment. Offer expires Aug. 15, 2016. Must be presented at time of consultation. Not valid with Participating Insurances. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Only applies to new patients.

www.SanTanSun.com JAN VESELY from page 27

Amphitheater School District. Her professional experience spans nearly four decades, and includes principal, principal supervisor, assistant and deputy superintendent; education business leader with Edison Schools; and regional vice president for Pearson’s western region. A mother of two and grandmother of three, Vesely says her goal is focused on finding and implementing the best roads to success for the approximately 17,000 Kyrene students. “My work is motivated by a strong sense of responsibility and care for our students and every decision will be based on what’s best for them,” she said. “I’m excited to be coming to a highlyperforming district with highly qualified, dedicated staff and strong parental and community support.” In her first day, she said that communication will be a major goal. “In these first 100 days I want to learn what makes this district so special. I want to deeply understand the foundation this district was built on so that I can continue to grow its excellence to even greater heights,” Vesely said. “The schools will be the focal point

Youth of my work, providing principals, teachers, and sites with the support they need to be successful. We’re realigning our support to schools to ensure the focus of our work in centered on the needs of schools and students.” Vesely is planning “Let’s Talk” tours to every school so she can further involve parents and the community at large, maintaining an active presence. “I plan to communicate clearly and frequently so that everyone feels engaged and connected to our district and its important work in educating the students within our community,” she said. “Among questions I’ll be posing are, ‘How do we ensure equal access and opportunities for all students so that we become a collective community focused on our central mission and vision?’ and, ‘How might we continue to be good stewards of community resources to minimize costs while maximizing outcomes of highly productive citizens for tomorrow?’” In April, the Kyrene Governing Board approved Vesely’s hiring after a monthslong search and interview process that included meetings with key stakeholder groups, such as teachers, students, parents and community members.

LAURA TOENJES from page 27

superintendent, I knew I had to pursue that,” said Toenjes, who was raised in Gilbert and is a Gilbert High School alumna. “I’m an East Valley girl and I’ve always been very impressed with the Kyrene School District, which has always had that reputation of excellence. So I’m thrilled to be a part of this team,” said Toenjes whose two teenage sons attend Hamilton High School and are active in sports. As part of her position as director of school improvement, Toenjes met weekly with teachers and administrators at each school. Her goals at Kyrene also include an emphasis on communication. Like Vesely, Toenjes said she has high standards for herself, educators and students, and a commitment to do what it takes to ensure their greatest chance for success. And like Vesely, she has a plaque in her office that she says reveals a lot about her philosophy: “Everyday Counts.” “I truly believe in the power of education and I have a passion for serving and always leaving whatever and whomever, including myself, better

August 6-19, 2016

than the day before,” she said. Toenjes earned her B.A. in communications from the University of Arizona. While teaching in Gilbert and later in Stanfield, Toenjes earned two master’s degrees from Northern Arizona University –one in elementary education and the other in administration and supervision with a minor in curriculum and instruction. “I believe my role as a leader is to foster a district-wide work environment that’s student-focused and results-oriented, placing priority on student learning and performance,” she said. When asked what she hopes to accomplish her first year as assistant superintendent, her typically bubbly nature quieted as she pondered before answering. Then she replied: “First, I look forward to becoming more familiar with the schools, students, staff, and the community. I’ll be working closely with the superintendent on the 90-day plan for the organization. I’m glad to be a part of the Kyrene family. I’ve always been aware of Kyrene’s reputation for excellence and look forward to contributing to the journey.”

Recent Hamilton grad finds love of art BY LAURIE FAGEN

Matthew Wichman will be attending ASU’s civil engineering program this fall, but his love of art led to a recent commission of a mural by Intel. The 2016 Hamilton High graduate didn’t realize he had artistic talent until he got into high school. “I really didn’t even know that I could draw until I took art classes at Hamilton and invested time into practicing,” he explained. “I took art classes at Hamilton High School since the second semester of my sophomore year which included the advanced art class for half a year and the AP Studio Art class for two years.” His skill led to an honorable mention in the art category in the recent 2016 Young Artists and Authors Showcase, sponsored by ChandlerTullamore Sister Cities. Other awards include: Arizona State Fair first and second place awards and the People’s Choice Award; first place at the Chandler Unified School District Art Show; five honorable mentions, one Gold Key Award and one Silver Key Award in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for drawings; and third place at the Congressional Art Show. A friend, who had seen Matthew’s artwork on his mother’s Facebook page, was working on the renovation of the Intel café on the Chandler and Rural campus and needed a mural artist. He contacted Matthew and made arrangements for him to get the job. But the busy senior wasn’t sure he could accomplish it in the time requested: four days. “I had a lot of assignments due,” he recalled. “I was also nervous because of the massive time crunch of the project. Even though I was scared and nervous about being able to finish it

on time, I understood how big of an opportunity it was for me and my blooming art career so I couldn’t pass it up.” Matthew says they had “vague requests” for the mural, such as a “sense of community and possibly some food.” After he provided a couple of sketches, they narrowed the specs to include a Manzanita tree, which is the main decoration of the café, food and “the 5 C’s of Arizona: copper, cattle, cotton, climate, and citrus.” Matthew used an oil-based chalk called Prismacolor Nupastels, and got the job done in the time requested. Employees say they enjoy seeing his work. “Everyone at Intel who talked to me about the mural says they love how beautiful and detailed it is.” He’s happy with it, too. “Looking back on how the mural turned out, I’m still surprised that I was able to create something so large and detailed in just four days. I’m extremely happy with the end result but I think I could have added more details if I was given more time.” He’s open to doing another mural or other commission artwork, and is building a website to sell prints of his work. He recently contracted with Ghost Armor to sell his images on its phone and tablet cases. Meanwhile, he’s doing small art projects that include carving a bust into a tree stump and experimenting with different mediums. He said he also plans to explore ASU’s art program and take some art classes there. Mostly he hopes he can be a “source of inspiration” for other young artists. “I want everyone to believe that they can do whatever they are willing to put effort into,” he said. “One of my favorite quotes is from the artist Bob Ross: ‘Talent is a pursued interest.

The Intel mural in Chandler.

Matthew Wichman’s entry in the 2016 Young Artists and Authors Showcase.

In other words, anything that you’re willing to practice, you can do.’” A website is under construction, but to see more of Matthew’s work, visit his Matthew Wichman Facebook page

or contact him at mattwichmanart@ gmail.com or 602-677-8302. For details about the Chandler-Tullemore Sister Cities and its various programs, visit chandlerirish.org.

Youth

August 6-19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

East Valley students earn scholarships from McDonald’s-associated charities Taelor Smith of Basha High School and Jonathan Frazier of Hamilton High School earned scholarships from Ronald McDonald House Charities of Phoenix, with the support of the McDonald’s Owner/Operators of Phoenix and Northern Arizona. Scholarships awarded range from $1,500 to $2,500. The students may attend any college or technical school of their choice. They are selected based on academic achievement, financial need and community involvement.

CONFIDENT COURAGEOUS FRIEND

Whitening •

RMHC of Phoenix and McDonald’s will assist 100 Arizona high school students attend college this fall with scholarships totaling $250,000. The RMHC scholarship recipients were honored on June 3 at the RMHC Phoenix Scholarship Breakfast at the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel. The annual event raises more than $200,000 to help Arizona high school seniors attend college. This program is one of the largest scholarship programs available to Arizona high school seniors.

• Veneers • Digital X-rays and More

We want to see you smile! Providing personalized general dentistry services, including cosmetic and restorative procedures, in a modern, caring and professional environment overlooking relaxing views of Historic San Marcos Golf Course.

Help her get there. BECOME A LEADER TODAY. girlscoutsaz.org

Gateway Pediatrics 205 S. Dobson Rd, Suite 1, Chandler AZ 85224

(480) 963-6668

Our distinctive services: • Comprehensive Pediatric care from Birth to 18 Years • In-house Lactation (Breastfeeding) consultation • In-house consultation in Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics • Medical home for children with Special Health Care Needs • Complimentary Meet the Doctor visit for expecting parents

Hilarry A. Douglas, D.D.S., P.C. FAMILY DENTISTRY

480-855-7888 Hdouglasdentistry.com

Many insurance plans accepted and financing available

575 W. Chandler Blvd., Ste. 223

(Chandler Blvd. between Alma School Rd. and Arizona Ave.)

New Vistas an Award Winning School

• Evening hours Monday-Thursday until 8pm by appt only • Saturday hours from 8am-12pm by appointment only • Bilingual office staff and providers

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS OF ALL AGES! ★ Dr. Sudha Chandrasekhar, MD, FAAP, IBCLC ★ Dr. Mariah Scott, DO, FAAP ★ Dr. Cristina Tamez, MD, FAAP ★ Sandra Sexton, CPNP, IBCLC ★ Dorothy Rzewnicki, CPNP, PMHS ★ Paulie Gatchell, RN, IBCLC

www.gatewaypediatricsaz.com

The New Year Begins

480.963.2313

Youth

www.SanTanSun.com

August 6-19, 2016

Jewish Tuition Organization raises more than $4 million during year

Host families sought for foreign exchange students ages 15-18

Scottsdale-based Jewish Tuition Organization’s revenue exceeded $4 million, it was announced at its July 20 board meeting. The JTO is a student tuition organization (STO) that raises funds from both individuals and corporations through the Arizona private school tuition tax credit. The tax credit is an Arizona dollar-for-dollar tax credit. For 2016, the tax credit is $1,087 for individuals and $2,173 for couples filing jointly. Corporations do not have a maximum limit for the tax credit. Funds raised by the JTO are used for need-based scholarships for children to attend one of six Phoenix-area Jewish day schools. More than 90% of the funds raised

ASSE International Student Exchange Programs (ASSE) is looking for local families to host boys and girls between the ages of 15 to 18 from a variety of countries, including Norway, Denmark, Spain, Italy and Japan. ASSE students are enthusiastic and excited to experience American culture while they practice their English. They also love to share their own culture and language with their host families. Host families welcome these students into their family, not as a guest, but as a family member, giving everyone involved a rich

go directly to need-based scholarships. The schools supported by the JTO include Desert Jewish Academy in Chandler, Pardes Jewish Day School in Scottsdale, Phoenix Hebrew Academy, Shearim Torah High School for Girls, Torah Day School and Yeshiva High School of Arizona, all located in Phoenix. “We are pleased to be able to provide nearly 600 scholarships this year; our focus is to raise as much funding as we can, so that every child who wants a Jewish education can have one.” For more information, contact the Jewish Tuition Organization offices at 480-634-4926 or visit jtophoenix.org.

cultural experience. The exchange students have pocket money for personal expenses and full health, accident and liability insurance. ASSE students are selected based on academics and personality, and host families can choose their student from a wide variety of backgrounds, countries and personal interests. To become an ASSE Host Family or to find out how to become involved with ASSE in your community, please call the ASSE Western Regional Office at 1-800-733-2773 or go to host.asse. com to begin a host family application.

• Enhanced Pre-K and Kindergarten Programs • Academically Enriched Curriculum and Low Ratios • Free Language Enrichment: Spanish, French, Mandarin • Daily Yoga, Art & Sign Language • Before and After School Club with Transportation and Food • Daily Fresh Fruits, Vegetables and Hot Meals • Outdoor and Indoor Playgrounds

Now Accepting New Students Ages 1-10 940 E. Riggs Road, Chandler NW Corner of Riggs & McQueen

480-237-9790 • www.plapreschool.com

WHERE YOU START THE JOURNEY CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE.

CALL TODAY!

Tour your local Goddard School and experience why it’s the best preparation for social and academic success. Goddard Systems, Inc.’s program is AdvancED accredited. CHANDLER • 480-821-1234 GoddardSchool.com

-----------LEARNING FOR FUN. LEARNING FOR LIFE.® ------------

The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2016

Youth

August 6-19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

Carebear Preschool At Fulton Ranch GET YOUR CHILD READY FOR KINDERGARTEN!

Half-Day & Full-Day Programs for 1 to 5-year-olds Space is limited! Registering for Fall 2016-2017 • Classes to Meet all Schedules • Huge State-of-the-art Playground and Splash Pad at Fulton • Academic Work Stations • Music • Cutting Edge Curriculum Aligns With Arizona Common Core Standards • Creative Play

• Handwriting Without Tears • Phonics & Whole Language Instruction • Spanish • Interactive Promethean Board Activities • Character Education • iPads • Scholastic News

FULTON RANCH (480) 802-0058

HAMILTON HIGH SCHOOL Why HHS is the best choice!! Fantastic 2015 – 2016 school year

• • • • • • •

5 State Championships 16 National Merit Winners Over $38 million in scholarships 8 Military Academy placements 3 Gatorade Players of the Year Selected by the AIA for the overall Excellence Award #1 Comprehensive High School in AZ according to Washington Post’s Most Challenging High Schools

• • • • • • • •

Perfect score of 36 on ACT by a HHS junior Gates Millennium Scholarship recipient 3rd place nationally in the National Online Academic Decathlon 8 students qualified for International Science Engineering Fair STEM Classes & STEM Curriculum Earn college credit Over 80 sponsored clubs on campus #1 Comprehensive High School in AZ according to Phoenix Business Journal based on SAT score

Be a 480-883-5000 part of the Excellence 3700 S. Arizona Ave,

MakeChandler, the 2016-2017 school year AZ 85248 more successful! We are accepting open enrollments! 480-883-5000 • 3700 S. Arizona Ave, Chandler, AZ 85248

Youth

www.SanTanSun.com

August 6-19, 2016

Legacy Traditional School offers well-rounded education New campus coming to north Chandler Rebecca Pentland can’t imagine doing anything but working with children. As the first leader of Legacy Traditional School’s new north Chandler campus, Pentland is anticipating the first day of school on Wednesday, Aug. 10. “I’m so excited,” Pentland said. “I worked with Legacy Traditional School for seven years in a variety of capacities. I feel like I know the program and the operational piece and the instructional piece. “I’m looking forward to bringing Legacy into the north Chandler/Gilbert area.” The tuition-free Legacy Traditional School campuses are all “A” ranked schools by the Arizona Department of Education and have been voted the No. 1 charter school in Arizona by Ranking Arizona. The school focuses on all areas of academic study, including music, art, physical education, extracurricular activities and clubs. The north Chandler campus at 1900 N. McQueen Road is still under construction but is expected to be finished by the 4 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8, ribbon-cutting ceremony. The Backto-School Night follows at 5 p.m.; the school is enrolling now. For more information, call 480-757-5400, visit NChandler.LegacyTraditional.org or email NChandler-Info@LegacyTraditional.org. Legacy’s back-to-basics and accelerated curriculum is encompassed in a learning environment that focuses on character building, patriotism and the responsibilities of being a good citizen. Legacy Traditional

Rebecca Pentland, principal of the new Legacy Traditional School. STSN Photo by Will Powers

School is a K-8 charter school with stateof-the-art classrooms for kindergarten, elementary and middle school. Legacy also offers after-school and summer programs. Special area classes in grades K-6 include general music, physical education, library, computers, creative minds art appreciation class and Spanish. Class piano is offered at the Gilbert campus. Electives in grades seven and eight include computers I, physical education, Art2D, Art 3D, band, orchestra, choir, musical theater and Spanish I and II. “We’re a traditional back-to-basics accelerated public education, kindergarten through eighth grade school,” Pentland said.

“Saxon is our math program, which we teach a year ahead. So kids are getting a grade level ahead in math with Saxon. “Spalding Language Arts Program is an analytical program that is phonetics based. It gives them the tools to decode words at a more efficient level so they become better readers and writers. We also have all of our desks in rows, facing the teacher. In the traditional school environment, the teacher should be in charge of the students’ learning because they’re the masters of their craft.” Legacy Traditional School also emphasizes patriotism, something Pentland said is important these days. “Not only are we educating students in

Brittany Afsa, assistant principal and Rebecca Pentland, principal of the new Legacy Traditional School in Chandler. STSN Photo by Will Powers

music, physical education, math and reading, but love of country and pride in one’s country is important to us as well. “We begin every school day with a flag ceremony. We all meet as a school with myself and the assistant principal. We say the Pledge of Allegiance and have a moment of silence. We then talk about whatever focus we are on for that grading period.” Pentland has seen firsthand the effect that Legacy Traditional School has on children. She sent her son to the school.

Chandler Soccer Academy Grass Roots Recreation Program in Partnership with AZSC

AGES 3 TO 13 YEARS OLD! Registration Costs:

Registration Includes:

• Regular Registration Period: Cost $95.00

• Full Uniform (Jersey/Shorts/Socks)

• Sibling Discount, up to 3rd Player: $5.00 off per player

• Personalized Team photo/individual photo

• Late & Wait List Registration Period: Cost $115.00 per player no discounts

• Two FREE player clinics per season

• Personalized Trophy or Medal

• Field Equipment • Referee Fees

Check us out at www.chandlersoccer.com or find us on Facebook @ Arizona Soccer Club Grass Roots Recreation Program

August 6-19, 2016

Youth

www.SanTanSun.com

Opinion

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

Community Commentaries

Come see a Google self-driving car Maricopa County officials up close and personal on Aug. 13 hard at work this summer BY MAYOR JAY TIBSHRAENY

I wrote earlier this year about Google’s decision to choose the city of Chandler as its next testing location for its self-driving car project. Google cars have been MAYOR JAY TIBSHRAENY driving throughout the community as they map streets, neighborhood and alleys down to the inch. Now, residents have a chance to see the Google self-driving car up close. On Saturday, Aug. 13, the public can attend an open house to see the car, talk with members of the Google self-driving care team, and learn more about the tremendous potential that this technology can deliver. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Soho63, at 63 E. Boston St., downtown Chandler. For more information on the event, visit: google.com/selfdrivingcar/chandler. We feel Chandler is a great choice for Google as the company continues to test and develop this new technology. And it makes sense to begin their Arizona program here in Chandler, further cementing our reputation as the innovation and technology hub of the Southwest. As I mentioned, the Lexus SUV test cars have already hit the streets of Chandler, creating a detailed map of our streets, so that they can gain more experience driving in desert conditions. Test drivers are still present in the cars, ensuring a safe environment and monitoring all of the data received by the cars’ detailed cameras, sensors and other equipment. It will be

interesting to see how the technology responds to our summertime heat and the occasional monsoon. I recently sat down with Jennifer Haroon who leads the project, to discuss all things Google for my cable show, “Chandler Inside and Out.” You can stream the show from our website by going to chandleraz.gov/video. It is a fascinating look inside the company and what the future holds in terms of this exciting technology. Testing will begin in Chandler and expand to other parts of the Phoenix metro area, making it the fourth location in the country to host the Google self-driving car testing program. Testing fleets are in Mountain View, California, Austin, Texas, and Kirkland, Washington. Austin and Chandler continue to share many traits. We each are home to one of four General Motors Innovation Centers, as well as TechShop. In Chandler, Google joins a number of other cutting-edge technology companies like Intel, Garmin, Microchip, Orbital ATK and NXP, formerly Freescale Semiconductor. Google’s choice to begin testing in Chandler is a solid one, and we look forward to being an integral part of this very exciting, emerging technology. I hope to see you Aug. 13 at the open house! Jay Tibshraeny is the mayor of Chandler.

2016 Google Self-Driving Car

BY DENNY BARNEY

I hope you’re enjoying the summer! While this time of year is slower for many, we have been hard at work. I’m proud to share that Maricopa County received 57 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo). The annual awards honor innovative, effective county government programs. This means that our county has once again garnered national attention for providing smarter government and high quality services to our citizens. Among the winning programs was “Clean Start,” which employs female probationers in the jail laundry and provides them with career guidance, skills training and cognitive behavioral change training. Two of the county’s programs were recognized as “Best in Category,” including a citizens’ improvement panel and a new space in the main terminal of the PhoenixMesa Gateway Airport where visitors

can download eBooks and charge electronic devices. In other important news, the Maricopa County Industrial Development Authority (IDA) approved a series of grants to help local community groups move their mission forward. Three of the recipients are Local First Arizona, which grows, supports, and celebrates local businesses; First Place, which will be one of the nation’s first residential projects for adults living with autism; and Year Up, which empowers urban young adults to reach their potential through professional careers and higher education. You can read more about these and other programs at maricopa.gov. Stay cool in the heat, and stay safe from the monsoons. As ever, don’t hesitate to reach out with any comments, questions, and concerns. District 1 County Supervisor Denny Barney can be reached at 602-506-1776. For more information, visit maricopa.gov/dist1.

Saba’s Western Wear taking gun responsibility seriously We thank Mr. Beydler for his concern about downtown Chandler (Opinion: Reader disturbed by semiautomatic gun sales downtown, July 16.) Saba’s has been in downtown since 1927 and we can assure him no one is more concerned about our downtown than us. We have worked very hard to help develop it into what it is today. We are a “western store,” not just a clothing store and as such sell many corresponding items, such as firearms, and have since the 1960s. Our customers include hunters, sportsmen and other law-abiding

citizens who request these items. Every firearm sale complies with the rules and regulations required by our government and we take this responsibility very seriously. We understand that not every citizen wants to own a firearm. However, we ask that all citizens respect the rights of those who want to shop for and legally own a firearm. Once again, thanks to Mr. Beydler for his concern. David Saba Saba’s Western Wear, Chandler

Reader questions authenticity of writer So the store owners of Saba’s Western Wear are convicted by Mr. Beydler’s Democrat progressivism platitudes as guilty of operating a legal for-profit business. If Saba’s is selling legal guns and

ammo, which Mr. Beydler says the public should boycott, then adjacent bars and restaurants should be boycotted as well because they’re going to attract drunkards and obese people. Mr. Beydler, who has

unsuccessfully sought political office in past years, seems to have an ulterior motive. Jeff Foxworthy’s article of “Which side of the fence?” e.g., “If a Republican doesn’t like guns, he

doesn’t buy one. If a Democrat doesn’t like guns, he wants all guns outlawed.” Dennis Riswold Chandler

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.

Deadline

mailing address:

PO Box 23 Chandler, AZ 85244-0023 telephone: 480-348-0343 fax: 480-883-8714

For News Tips, Editorial Articles, Opinion or Classifieds, email is preferred. news email address: news@santansun.com ads email address: ads@santansun.com website address: www.santansun.com

Editorial and Advertising Noon, Thursday, Aug. 11 for the Saturday, Aug. 20, 2016 issue

35,000

Total Circulation 27,250+ Driveways Fifty square mile coverage area from Price/101 to Greenfield and from Frye to Hunt Highway.

Proud member of the

publisher

editor-in-chief

production manager

publisher emeritus

executive editor

design manager

managing editor

graphic designer

Steve T. Strickbine Laurie Fagen

account executives

Jane Meyer Tracy Walsh Tracey Wilson

website maintained by

Susan Kovacs, n-ergizing

Robbie Peterson

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski Lee Shappell

associate editor

Srianthi Perera

Courtney Oldham Erica Odello

Jay Banbury ad design

Paul Braun

Opinion

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

Chandler school board president says students are ‘extraordinary’ BY ANNETTE AUXIER

The first day of school was July 25 and we couldn’t have been more excited to welcome students and staff. We like to use the hashtag term #BeExtraordinary ANNETTE AUXIER in Chandler Unified to publicize and promote our schools and district on social media. Our students, staff and schools are living up that motto. Recent highlights include: • Our 2016 graduating class earned more than $118 million in scholarship offers. • The Arizona Educational Foundation tapped Riggs Elementary, San Marcos Elementary and Andersen Junior High as A+ Schools of Recognition this spring. Chandler Unified schools have been named Arizona A+ Schools or U.S. Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence 73 times since 1983, the most of any district in the state. • Niche.com named Chandler Unified the No. 1 K-12 District in Arizona two years in a row based on comprehensive data, including student achievement. • Our schools won numerous and individual and team state titles in the academic, athletic and fine arts arena. • The U.S. News and World Reported

named Arizona College Prep – Erie the 13th-best high school in the country. • Students continue to make a name for themselves in the science and engineering arena. At the 2016 Arizona Science and Engineering Fair, Knox Gifted Academy and Hamilton High earned Best of Fair for the elementary and senior divisions, respectively. Ten of the 15 Grand Award winning students from Arizona who proceeded to the International Fair hailed from Chandler Unified. Of the 10 projects sent, CUSD students brought home more than a dozen awards from the International Science and Engineering Fair. Two students – McKenna Loop of Arizona College Prep Erie and Aryasp Nejat of Hamilton High, brought home Grand Awards. We aren’t content to rest on our laurels. The Governing Board has set a goal to become the No. 1 district in the country. In June, we updated our Strategic Plan from Journey 2020 to Journey 2025 after receiving feedback from staff and students at our retreat. The Governing Board also revised our district mission statement to read “empower all students with the knowledge, skills and attitude necessary to excel in college, career and life.” Our core values at CUSD center around excellence, collaboration, equity, integrity and efficiency.

A message to parents from new Kyrene schools superintendent BY DR. JAN VESELY

It is a great honor for me to be joining the Kyrene School District community. Kyrene is unquestionably one of the finest school districts in the state, and I am humbled to serve as your superintendent. My approach to education is simple— students are the reason we do what we do. I take my responsibility for their care and learning very seriously and believe deeply that they each deserve a quality education. It is our job, as a district, to help them grow intellectually, emotionally and socially while instilling in them the habits of mind and mastery of skills they’ll need to be successful in life. Providing our school leadership with the support they need to be successful will be a priority. I am committed to fostering a rigorous teaching and learning environment in our classrooms that provides every one of our students with a sense of belonging. This past spring and summer, I was fortunate to spend several days getting to know Kyrene. I have visited schools, participated in Governing Board meetings and worked with our leadership team to develop specific goals that will enhance our excellence and guide our efforts in the years ahead. School started Aug. 1. Teachers and staff were hard at work over the summer in professional development and trainings. We have over 100 new teachers and we welcome them to our team. As we started a new school year, the class of 2029, our new kindergartners, entered briskly and enthusiastically with high hopes for the future. Our eighth graders, the

class of 2021, returned to complete their preparation for the transition to high school, anticipating their next academic adventure. Between these important milestones, we will leave no stone unturned in making these students’ dreams possible. We do that by creating opportunities for learning that allow us to celebrate the unique gifts in each student. What we do in the classroom matters, and we will seek to create memorable, magical moments to nurture curious minds and critical thinkers. We want our students to be engaged in their learning, whether it be in the arts, on our athletic fields, or in our community. When our students thrive, we know we’ve done our jobs well. Throughout the year, I hope to stay connected with district employees and our Kyrene community. I will be conducting “Let’s Talk” tours at every school and look forward to hearing from you how we can improve. I will provide regular updates, through newsletters, social media, automated phone and text messages, as well as by participating in school and community meetings. So as we embark on this education journey together, and welcome a new school year, I’m excited for the future. Henry Ford said, “Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.” I look forward to celebrating with you our shared future success in Kyrene. In the meantime, I will see you in our schools! Dr. Jan Vesely is the new superintendent of Kyrene School District.

Our 10-year strategic plan strives to continue to make Chandler Unified the district of choice by providing vision to create outstanding students, world-class employees, organizational culture and effective resource management. During the fall, the board will vote on metrics to determine our success for the 2016-2017 school year. We encourage you to visit our website at www.cusd80.com/Journey2025 to see all of the details about our strategic plan. Students learn through a variety of methods and strategies. Staff have worked hard to create opportunities to meet the needs of all students. Elementary parents can choose among their neighborhood schools with high expectations for students with highly qualified staff, traditional academies, Mandarin and Spanish immersion programs, self-contained gifted classes, Knox Gifted Academy, structured physical education, band and orchestra and character education programs. Experience in our elementary schools prepare students for junior high programs that are comprehensive and diverse, empower them with a stronger sense of self, and cultivate an appreciation of the effort and dedication required for academic and personal growth, drive, purpose and confidence to succeed in high school. Junior high options include selfcontained gifted programs, accelerated

learning, personalized education and structured environment, online learning hybrid, engineering programs and comprehensive athletics, band, orchestra and arts programs. In addition, Elite Performance Academy, provides a highquality comprehensive instructional program for students in grades 3-8 involved with local gyms, studios and center. The Chandler Online Academy provides comprehensive honors and AP level options for grades 7-12. Our high schools, students’ final destination in CUSD, are a tremendous source of pride. Our comprehensive high schools have feature exceptional engineering programs, award-winning fine arts programs, comprehensive Career and Technical Education programs, extensive elective course offerings in music, fine arts, foreign language, media and championship athletic programs. CUSD is the only district in the state to have all of its high schools rated an “A” each year of the Arizona Department of Education rating system. The Chandler Online Academy, Arizona College Prep, Chandler Early College (high school students housed at Chandler Gilbert Community College), are popular with students and provide options to meet the various needs of families. You can learn more about our opportunities at cusd80.com/choice. Annette Auxier is president of the Chandler Uniﬁed Governing Board.

Regain Your Mobility Today!

WE TREAT PAIN QUICKLY! We specialize in joint, muscle, and arthritic pain. We also treat migraines. • Fast appointment scheduling for fast pain relief • In office treatment for joint pain, muscle pain and migraines.

Call for an appointment today!

480.718.1444 EAST VALLEY JOINT CLINIC 2231 E Pecos Road, Ste. 4 Chandler, AZ www.eastvalleyjointclinic.com Medicare, most insurance and self pay accepted.

August 6 - 19, 2016

SanTan Sun News

is here!

David Hosey navigates the mirrors and shifting pattern of light and color at the OdySea Mirror Maze.

Fun for all ages in the Valley giant tree centering the 20,0000-squarenearly every time we visit, and they’re having “How old do you have to be to go there? foot facility, were built for adults as well a blast. And here’s how I know we’ve got How young?” as children to play. All main structures are the other end of the age spectrum covered: I’ve been hearing that question from my great for kids 5 and up, but your littlest ones I didn’t make it out there until I was an son often. should probably stick to Oscar’s Lagoon, adult, and I was hooked! In between, my He wants to plan family trips. My son built especially for toddlers with foam son’s spent long days as a kindergartener, is a young teenager. My niece is a year blocks and a small slide. Everyone can enjoy “big kid,” and now teen enamored with the and a half old. Lately, he’s has been waxing refreshments (and free Wi-Fi) at Kiki’s Cafe. giant dinosaur skeleton replicas; as well as nostalgic (just don’t tell him I said other displays detailing the biology, so), thinking about places we’ve gone archaeology, art, culture, history and over the years to have fun and build more of the Southwest. One of our memories—with an eye toward favorite exhibits is “Rulers of the taking his younger cousin once she Prehistoric Skies,” and my son can’t really starts walking. wait to stand his little cousin beneath Because he’s an only child, our the Quetzalcoatlus northropi, with a trips have grown up with my son. wingspan of 39 feet, the largest animal I’ve never before considered how that has flown. Also not to be missed: challenging it can be to please Check out dinosaur skeletons and everyone across a range of ages. replicas, watch and listen to a “flash McDonald’s Play Places and splash flood” every 23 minutes on Dinosaur pads did the trick when he was 3, but Mountain, and “lock up” your kids in a I don’t think that cuts it at 14. He’s cell from the Mesa Territorial Jail. game for zip lining, glider flights and Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to hiking, but I don’t think my niece is Friday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; 1 p.m. quite up to that. And it’s too dang to 5 p.m. Sunday; closed Monday hot to go to the park and call it a Admission: Kids 3 to 12 $7; students day. Are there any spots good for 13-plus with ID $8; adults $12; seniors both of them? And, come to that, 65-plus $10 entertaining for the adults involved? Fortunately, the answer is yes. Butterfly Wonderland/ After a brief review of some of our OdySea Mirror Maze trips, and a little input from my 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale son, we prepared the following Butterfly Wonderland: 480-800-3000; suggestions for staying cool indoors David Hosey views a mating pair of butterflies at Butterfly Mirror Maze: 480-270-6200 with kids of all ages. Wonderland. butterflywonderland.com; odyseamirrormaze.com Makutu’s Island Hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday; 7 a.m. to Hours: Daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 6919 W. Ray Rd., Chandler 7 p.m. Monday to Thursday; 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Admission: Butterfly Wonderland: Children 480-344-3741 Friday; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday 3 to 12 $12.95; students with ID $17.95; adults makutusisland.com Admission: Kids ages 1 to 17 $11.99; one $19.95; children 2 and younger free / Mirror The tunnels, slides, bridges, zip line, adult per child free; extra adult $6 Maze: All-day pass $9.95; other prices for climbing surfaces, turrets, platforms and individual walkthroughs more in this place accommodate all ages, Arizona Museum Kids get out of a place what they bring though you might keep that fact under to it, so there are many attractions that of Natural History your hat in case your little (or not-so-little) can grow and change with them. Both 53 N. Macdonald, Mesa ones wear you out and you need a breather. Butterfly Wonderland and the adjacent 480-644-2230 Seriously, Makutu’s Island was a no-brainer. arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org It underwent a change in ownership two see FUN page 5 I see toddlers at the “dinosaur museum” years ago, but most structures, including the BY KIMBERLY HOSEY

What’s inside Page 2, 3

SanTan Family Fun Calendar

August 6 - 19, 2016

August 2016 Always call to verify information as some events change or cancel after the calendar is printed.

9 STEAM Club Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

16 STEAM Club Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

STEAM Club Tumbleweed Tumble Tots Reptiles of Arizona

30 STEAM Club Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

Send family events and activities to STFF@SanTanSun.com

Tumbleweed Tots Kids Club, powered by National Geographic Kids

“West Side Story” Tumbleweed Tumble Tots Lego Club

Tots 17Tumbleweed Kids Club, powered by

National Geographic Kids Exploring Arizona Geology Family Night at the TRC

Tumbleweed Tots Kids Club, powered by National Geographic Kids

“West Side Story” Tumbleweed Tumble Tots Lego Club Full Moon Nature Hike

Tumbleweed Tumble Tots Lego Club

12 ImprovMANIA

“West Side Story” Tumbleweed Tots Animal Spotlighting MacGyver School

19ImprovMANIA

“West Side Story” Tumbleweed Tots Chandler Art Walk Youth Talent Competition

ImprovMANIA Outdoor Cooking Challenge at Veteran Oasis Park “West Side Story”

“Into the Woods”

ImprovMANIA “West Side Story” Food Foraging: Native Plants

ImprovMANIA Outdoor Cooking Challenge at Veteran Oasis Park “West Side Story”

“Grease” presented by Valley Youth Theatre,

ImprovMANIA Tumbleweed Tots MacGyver School

Tumbleweed Tots

22 Tumbleweed Tots Welcome to the Sonoran Desert

All About Scorpions

Tumbleweed Tots

U.S. Navy Band Cruisers

Meet Abby, a Therapy Dog

Tumbleweed Tots

31 Tumbleweed Tots Kids Club, powered by National Geographic Kids

LUXURY INTERIORS

CONDO LIVING AT ITS FINEST

LUXURY CONDOS The only NEW single level condominium community in Chandler

FITNESS CENTER

1 & 2 bedroom/2 bath condos

Elevator to all floors & gated

Walking distance to top restaurants and shops

2 bedroom loft/3 bath penthouses

Underground parking

From the $230s

THE CAYS AT OCOTILLO 888.506.8712 | 480.248.3737 WWW.THECAYSATOCOTILLO.COM

August 6 - 19, 2016 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27 ImprovMANIA, 7 p.m. Join ImprovMANIA every Friday and Saturday night for a family-friendly comedy show. ImprovMANIA’s improv comedy shows are fast-paced, live comedy shows made up on the spot based on audience suggestions like the show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” Prepare for a night of laughter in downtown Chandler. ImprovMANIA, 250 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. $10. 480-699-4598, improvmania.net. 6, 20 Outdoor Cooking Challenge at Veteran Oasis Park, 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Get ready for camping, backpacking or just backyard partying. These programs will teach how to make amazingly tasty food with only limited resources needed. Impress friends and family with these new “old-style” cooking skills. Cooking will be done outside, so please dress appropriately. Come ready to eat breakfast. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $10 to $14. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec. 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20 “West Side Story,” 7 p.m. Thursday; 7:30 p.m. Friday; 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday. The ageless tale of Romeo and Juliet is set against the backdrop of NYC gang warfare of the 1950s. As rival gangs battle over their turf, a boy and a girl from opposing sides fall in love and begin their tragic fight for survival. This Bernstein/Sondheim gem includes wellloved songs such as “Tonight,” “Somewhere,” and “Maria.” Hale Centre Theatre, 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert. $18 to $28 for tickets. 480-4971181, haletheatrearizona.com. 7 “Into the Woods,” 2 p.m. Once upon a time there was childless baker and his wife that wished to begin a family, but have been cursed by an evil witch. To break the spell, the couple must journey into the woods and complete the witch’s list of tasks. Along the way the baker meets Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel and other classic fairy tale characters. Together they all venture into the woods to find their happily ever after Scottsdale Desert Stages Theatre, 4720 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale. 480-4831664, desertstages.org. 8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29, 31 Tumbleweed Tots, 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. This indoor play area is designed for children five years of age and under to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $3 fee. 480782-2900, chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed. 9, 16, 23, 30 STEAM Club, 4-5 p.m. Come to the Chandler Library STEAM Club and have fun every Tuesday with Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. Play games, dig up dinos, weird science, fun crafts, LEGO cars and more. Win prizes just for showing up! Ages 6-11. STEAM Club is a VERTEX program, where Chandler Public Library intersects with STEAM and makerspace. Downtown Library Cactus Room, 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org. 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30 Tumbleweed Tumble Tots, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. This indoor play area is designed for

children 5 years of age and under to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $3 registration fee. 480-782-2900, chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed. 10, 17, 24, 31 Kids Club, powered by National Geographic Kids, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The Chandler Fashion Center Kids Club is a great opportunity for children to learn in a fun, interactive setting. Chandler Fashion Center teamed up with National Geographic Kids to create activities and games that focus on discovery through play. Chandler Fashion Center, in the Gap wing near the Food Court, 3111 W Chandler Blvd., Chandler. Free. 480-812-8488, ShopChandlerFashionCenter. com/KidsClub/. 11, 18, 25 Lego Club, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Come meet new friends and have fun building with Lego. Lego supplied, imagination required. No registration required. Lego Club is a Vertex program, where Chandler Public Library intersects with STEAM and makerspace. Downtown Library Copper Room, 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org. 12 Animal Spotlighting, 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. Explore the places animals like to hide while learning about them then we’ll stop to howl and bark like coyotes. Wear glow sticks and come have fun on this one-mile meander on the Littleleaf and Goldmine Trails. Please bring water, a flashlight, and wear closedtoed shoes. No pets, please. Meet at the main trailhead. San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Rd., Queen Creek. $6 park entry fee per vehicle. maricopa.gov/ parks/santan. 12, 26 MacGyver School, 1 p.m.to 3 p.m. Do not throw things out that can be reused in magnificent ways. Learn how to transform household items and the things you would usually discard into things that are cool, imaginative, and totally practical. A little bit science, a little bit crafty, and a little bit mechanical. Build things like fire starters, alcohol stoves, rodent snares and emergency kits. Sign up for all of them, or just one. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $10 to $14 fee. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec. 13 Food Foraging: Native Plants, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Since people have been on Earth, there has been a relationship between humans and plants. Take a guided walk through Veterans Oasis Park and learn about the importance of native plants to culture, food, medicine, tradition, arts and crafts, and music. The terrain is easy and will introduce the study of ethnobotany. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $9 to $13. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec. 14 U.S. Navy Band Cruisers, 3 p.m. As the U.S. Navy’s premier contemporary entertainment ensemble, the Cruisers feature eight of the Navy’s most dynamic performers. Formed in 1999 as a specialty unit of the United States Navy Band, the Cruisers are under the leadership of drummer, Senior Chief

Musician Leon Alexander. The group takes its name from the Navy’s versatile, flexible, multi-missioned ship—the Cruiser—and the band lives up to their namesake by having the capabilities of playing genres of music ranging from jazz and standards, R&B, classic rock, adult contemporary and pop as well as original material. This elite group has engaged and excited audiences of all ages throughout the United States and abroad with world-class musicianship and high energy, fun-filled performances. Chandler Center for the Arts 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler, Ariz. Free. 480-782-2683, chandlercenter.org. 17 Exploring Arizona Geology, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Did you know that Arizona was once covered by a large inland sea and dotted with dozens of huge volcanoes? Ever wonder how a tiny river could create such a Grand Canyon? Learn about our states ancient past and what geological events helped shape the truly unique landscape of Arizona. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $8 to $11 fee. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec. 17 Family Night at the TRC, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The first and third Wednesdays of the month enjoy a variety of different recreational activities and entertainment. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $5 registrations fee. For more information, contact Michael Fenzel, 480-782-2908. chandleraz.gov/registration. 18 Full Moon Nature Hike, 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Come and join the group for this onehour moon-lit hike of Veterans Oasis Park. Along the way participants will look and listen for the creatures that come out only after sunset as temperatures begin to drop. For added fun, bring a UV flashlight and discover how scorpions can glow in the dark. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $3 to $5 fee. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec. 19 Chandler Art Walk, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. The Art Walk provides a fun, family atmosphere where you can browse the many different types of art available from our talented artists. It is a monthly event featuring local artists and musicians, and is a great opportunity to visit all of the unique establishments in downtown Chandler. Every third Friday, Downtown Chandler welcomes more than 50 local artists to the historic square. All artists must go through a jury process to be accepted in the Art Walk. Only fine art and fine craft submissions will be considered. TechShop Chandler, 249 E. Chicago St., Chandler. Free. chandlerartwalk.com. 19 Youth Talent Competition, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. 8-12 year olds and sing, dance, rap, play an instrument, or who are in a band, showcase their talents. Cash prizes are awarded to first place in each category and the overall top performance will earn an opportunity to perform at the Teen Talent Show in January at the Chandler Center for Performing Arts! Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. $5 for general admission and $30 registration for participants. Contact Shawn People at 480-782-2746 or shawn.peoples@chandleraz.gov for more

information. 21 Welcome to the Sonoran Desert, 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. Welcome to the desert. This is a lush, diverse desert with lots of interesting residents. (And that is not just talking about the animals!) This 1-mile hike will focus on the common plants and animals living here and the adaptations that allow them to thrive. Meet Nikki at the flagpole. San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Rd., Queen Creek. $6 park entry fee per vehicle. maricopa.gov/parks/santan. 22 Meet Abby, a Therapy Dog, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Learn more about Abby, an English sheepdog, and her role in helping to bring joy and comfort to people in need. The program also includes making a craft. Sunset Library Monsoon Room. 4930 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org. 23 Reptiles of Arizona, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Join in for this fascinating class to explore facts and misconceptions of slithering snakes in the desert. Learn all about Arizona native species, their behaviors and habitats, how they affect the eco-system and the vital part they play in it. Most importantly, learn what to do when you encounter the animals in the wild. Arizona Herpetological Association will bring out a display of animals, both venomous and nonvenomous, that the students can see and interact with. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $8 to $11 fee. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec. 27 All About Scorpions, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. On a warm summer night, scouring the desert floor, the scorpions of San Tan look for their next meal. But who are the “big three” of San Tan? Learn about the facts, myths and reputation behind these mysterious creatures during a short presentation in the Nature Center. Once the group has learned all about scorpions, everyone will be ready to meet them face to face on an exciting Scorpion Scavenger Hunt starting at 8 p.m. San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Rd., Queen Creek. $6 park entry fee per vehicle. maricopa.gov/parks/santan. 28 “Grease” presented by Valley Youth Theatre, 2 p.m. Welcome to Rydell High! Meet the senior class of 1959: slick, hotrodding “Burger Palace Boys” and their gumsnapping, hip-shaking “Pink Ladies” in bobby sox and pedal pushers. Hit tunes “Summer Nights” and “Greased Lightnin” will have you rockin’ in your seats. Herberger Theater, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. $16.50 to $34.50 for tickets. 602-254-7399, herbergertheater.org. 28 Heard Museum – Free Sumer Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Relax and take in the art on the fourth Sundays of June, July, August and September in the cool confines of the Heard as we celebrate Free Summer Sundays with free admission for everyone! On Aug. 28, enjoy the athleticism and style of former world champion hoop dancer Derrick Suwaima Davis (Hopi/Choctaw) at 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. in the Steele Auditorium. And basketry artist Lakota Scott (Navajo) will be inside the galleries giving art demonstrations from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Heard Museum, 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. Free. 602-252-8840, heard.org.

August 6 - 19, 2016

Story Monster seeing the world, thanks to readers BY ALISON STANTON

This summer, a fetching little stuffed green toy named Story Monster is having the adventure of a lifetime. From Iceland to Israel and all across the United States, the beloved mascot of Story Monsters Ink magazine is getting his picture taken by kids and adults as part of the “Where in the World is Story Monster?” program. The idea to ask Story Monsters’ owners post photos of the mascot at various locations around the world was the brainchild of Linda Radke, president of Chandler-based Five Star Publications Inc. and publisher of Story Monsters Ink. Readers can post on Five Star Publications’ Facebook page. “Print subscribers receive a free plush Story Monster reading buddy, and I came up with an idea to see just how far the little monster could travel by asking readers to send in a photo of him during their travels or from their hometowns,” Radke said. It didn’t take long for Radke’s inbox to be flooded with photos of the bright and colorful multi-eyed Story Monster. In one picture, he is lying next to twins in Portugal; in another, he’s being held close by a beaming toddler in Ohio. Story Monster has also been to the beach in Carlsbad, California; he has ridden a bull statue in Texas, and he spent a relaxing day at Disneyland munching on a soft pretzel. Seeing just how far Story Monster is traveling has been a lot of fun for Radke. “We had a Story Monster puppet and life-sized costume created to entertain and educate little readers during our school visits,” Radke said. “Both were an instant hit, so I decided to

have smaller plush reading buddies created so children could practice their fluency skills at home by reading aloud to Story Monster. And it turns out, he is just as popular with grown-ups as he is with children.” Radke is proud of the way “Story Monsters Ink” and its lovable mascot are both inspiring kids to read. Each issue of the magazine features a reading guide, a Spanish language column, a science and nature column, a gardening column, and reviews of top movies, Radke said. It also gives kids, parents and educators the latest news on books and products, celebrity and independent author profiles, book reviews, recipes and activities. The magazine boasts articles, poems and drawings submitted by young readers monthly. Nicole Dodson, media specialist and librarian at Kyrene de las Brisas/Aprende in Chandler said she really likes Story Monsters Ink for its in-depth articles with favorite authors, which she said help bring a more personal level to beloved stories. “The nature section by Conrad Storad is also highly engaging, especially as he is and Arizona author,” Dodson said. Story Monsters Ink is a great monthly magazine to supplement classrooms and libraries where students can learn about great new books and topics of interest, she added. “We have our own plush Story Monster in our library who loves to watch over the shoulder of our readers, and get hugs from the students.” Radke said the magazine is available in digital and print formats and is distributed

Sitting atop a giant bull in Texas does not seem to faze Story Monster, the plush mascot of Story Monsters Ink magazine. Publisher Linda Radke is asking people to submit photos of Story Monster at various locations worldwide.

internationally by Publishers Distribution Group. Issues are also sold in Barnes and Noble and Books-a-Million stores nationwide. One-year print subscriptions are $59 and subscribers receive a free plush Story Monster. Digital subscriptions are free, Radke said. For more information or to subscribe, visit storymonsters.com. For more information about Five Star Publications Inc., visit fivestarpublications.com or facebook. com/fivestarpublications.

Story Monsters Ink book reviews In an effort to get kids interested in reading and writing, Five Star Publishing asks them to send reviews of their favorite books and the magazine will publish them in Story Monsters Ink magazine each month. They could be newly released titles or older books, whichever they prefer. And authors love seeing their books reviewed by their target audience. Who better to review them than the children they write for? To submit a book review, email cristy@ fivestarpublications.com. “Wing Over Wendover Meets the King” by Eric Stephen Bocks Reviewer: Joshua Bloomfield, Age 12 Good book, but not for teenagers. The book can be quite childish at times. However, if you are young enough, you will like the book. Characters range from a talking bird to several heroes, but none of them are realistic, not even the humans. The best part is the locations, which are well-planned out. The book is about a boy named Timmy who takes Wendover, the main protagonist, to an English teacher. Locations: 9/10; Characters: 5/10; Plot: 8/10; Overall: 8/10. I recommend this for ages 7-9, as it is too long and complex for under 7, but quite childish (especially the humor) and not for over 9. “How to (Almost) Ruin Your Summer” by Taryn Souders Reviewer: Olivia Amiri, age 9 “How to (Almost) Ruin Your Summer” is a heartfelt and humorous book. I found once I started reading the book that see

REVIEWS page 5

August 6 - 19, 2016

FUN FROM page 1

REVIEWS FROM page 4 I couldn’t stop. It shows if you are given something you don’t want, you can turn it into something fun and exciting. That is exactly what Chloe McCrokle did at summer camp. When you read this book, you can let your mind dive into the wonderful world of Chloe’s difficult summer camp and imagine what you would do. “Doodle Adventures: The Search for the Slimy Space Slugs!” by Mike Lowery Reviewer: Olivia Amiri, age 9 “The Search for the Slimy Space Slugs” is a very entertaining, funny and exciting book. One of the things that is very unique about this book is you get to help create the story and make decisions about the direction the story takes. This is a great book when you’re looking to be creative, but still want to read a book. Oh, and you get to write and draw right in the book! “Bloom” by Doreen Cronin and David Small Reviewer: Olivia Amiri, age 9 “Bloom’ is not your everyday fairytale, nor is Bloom (the character in the story) your everyday fairy. People have preconceived ideas of what a magical fairy should look like. When judging what someone looks like, they miss the greatness of what that person or creature has to offer. I like “Bloom” because it shows so many things people should notice. In “Bloom,” a mud fairy and a delicate girl can both be extraordinary. As “Bloom” says, “There is no such thing as an ordinary girl.” And I agree!

Odysea Mirror Maze, part of the OdySea in the Desert complex on the Salt River Reservation, offer kids enchanting fun at very young ages, which can grow to challenges and more to explore as they get older. In Butterfly Wonderland, winged wonders flit and flutter everywhere: a perfect enchanting moment for a tiny nature lover, and a great opportunity for older budding naturalists to observe and study the insects. In the Mirror Maze the colors, lights, mirrors and effects will amaze everyone. Kids 2 and younger are free, but parents are advised to keep an eye on kids under 5 as the effects can be scary for some.

SALON OROZCO

i.d.e.a. Museum

150 W. Pepper Pl., Mesa 480-644-2468 ideamuseum.org Of all the “children’s” museums that we might soon show my niece, this was my son’s first pick. While it has exhibits and activities designed to engage the littlest visitors in appreciation of art, creation, science and more; its exhibits are consistently fun and engaging for me as well—and my son agrees. The current exhibition, “Sci-Fi: Fantasy to Reality,” features an invention lab, green screen room, time tunnel and costume creator. Storytelling, role playing, arts that encourage the development of motor and pre-literacy skills and more are available for young children, while young and older kids alike will enjoy the gallery exhibits. (And if you promise not to tell, your older kids might create a masterpiece or two as well.) Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday; noon to 4 p.m. Sunday Admission: $8; children younger than 1 free.

AUGUST SPECIALS!

$10 Off Haircut -or- $20 Off Color (new clients only)

2735 S. Alma School Rd., Ste. 130 • Chandler • 480-612-5532 TUES., WED., THURS. 9AM - 8 PM • FRI., SAT. 8AM-6PM

5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL

5 $ 5 $

TO JOIN AND

FIRST MONTHS DUES

- OR -

WEEKS FOR

Membership & 6-Week Trial include:

• Unlimited use 7 days per week • 60+ training classes • Individualized on-ramp & orientation • Start and finish assessments • Nutrition guidelines

Offer good through 8/31/16, 1st time guests only, all previous trials may join for $5.

www.StudioFITaz.com

OCOTILLO LOCATION • 480-855-3005

1075 W. Queen Creek Rd. Suite #4 • Chandler, AZ 85248 • SW Corner of Alma School & Queen Creek HOURS: Mon-Fri: 5am-8pm • Sat & Sun: 7am-1pm • Also by appointment 7 days a week

@studiofitaz

August 6 - 19, 2016

Are you working with an authority in retirement? What you should know about your retirement plan

Prepara

How does the global economy affect your retirement options?

What does Brexit mean for your portfolio? Is this the end of the EU?

What changes has Congress made to Social Security benefits and how can this reduce your retirement income? (What you don't know could cost you!) Is your financial plan taxoptimized to prevent you from paying more than your fair share?

Call Netzel Financial today and get the professional advice your money deserves!

(480) 219-0657 10450 E. Riggs Rd., Ste. 101 Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

Join Us for breakfast at our Next Talkin' Money Class FRIDAY AUGUST 12th 9AM FRIDAY AUGUST 26th 9AM

www.netzelfinancial.com

Securities offered through Kalos Capital, Inc. and Investment Advisory Services offered through Kalos Management, Inc., both at 11525 Park Woods Circle, Alpharetta, Georgia 30005, (678) 3561100. Netzel Financial is not affiliated nor a subsidiary of Kalos Capital, Inc. or Kalos Management, Inc. Kalos Capital, Inc. does not provide tax or legal advice. The opinions and views expressed here are for informational purposes only. Please consult with your tax and/or legal advisor for such guidance.

Work for CUSD Community Education Department

Hiring for:

Buy Sell Trade NEW & USED GEAR

No matter what sport you play we’ve got you covered with the best gear at the best price.

$9.61-$13.88/hour (depending on position and experience)

Visit www.cusd80.com to apply Questions? Call 480-224-3900

OFF

Purchase of $50 or more

Not valid on sale items or with any other offer and only at this location. Expires 8-18-16

KIDS EXPRESS

Before & After School Program

LIL’ EXPLORERS Learning Centers

480-834-0005 1457 W. Southern Ave., A-6, Mesa AZ 85202

August 6 - 19, 2016

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the Chandler City Council

Plan your

FALL ACTIVITIES with

CHANDLER PARKS & RECREATION! REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN! (NON-RESIDENT REGISTRATION OPENS FRIDAY, AUG. 12 AT 10 a.m.)

We offer hundreds of opportunities for you and your family to discover hidden talents, develop new skills and have fun through our classes, programs and events. For a complete listing of upcoming activities or for more information on programs highlighted below pick up Break Time magazine at Chandler facilities,

visit www.chandleraz.gov/registration or call 480-782-2727.

Fall

INTERSESSION CAMPS • OCT. 3-14

When school is out, Chandler Parks & Recreation is in! Spark imagination and embrace creativity this season with our fall break camps. Qualified staff will engage kids in sports, games, arts & crafts, skits, youth development activities and special events. Morning, afternoon, or full-day sessions are available at the Community Center, Tumbleweed Recreation Center, Snedigar Recreation Center and the Environmental Education Center.

FALL SWIM OPPORTUNITIES Who says you need to pack your swimsuits once summer’s over? Take your school of fish to one of four of our aquatic centers for water play and daily swimming lessons.

FAMILY NIGHT at the TRC at the Community C enter AUGUST 19 • 6 p.m.

Who will be Chandler’s 2016 most talented youth? Get a front row seat at our Annual Youth Talent Competition to find out. Join us this Friday, August 19 at the Chandler Community Center as we cheer on talented youngsters. Doors open at 6 p.m. and admission is $5.

Dragonfly and Butterfly Bash! at the Environmental Education C enter

SEPTEMBER 24 • 9 a.m.-noon Bug Out in celebration of beautiful insects during the annual Dragonfly & Butterfly Bash. Enjoy guided nature walks, hands-on crafts, and presentations for all ages. Walks are approximately 15-minutes in duration over easy terrain. Don’t miss this free fun-filled, family-friendly special event.

AUG. 17 | CHALKTASTIC! SEPT. 7 | BUBBLES & BALLOONS

Wednesday nights are Fam-Tastic at Tumbleweed Recreation Center! Enjoy a variety of recreational activities and entertainment the first and third Wednesday of every month. For more information, visit www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.

A NS S ONNSEOT R SERIE SU

at t he E E C

Get ready to groove on the waterfront. Sonoran Sunset Series returns this fall with live, outdoor music at Veterans Oasis Park. Running October to December, the series delivers free live tunes the third Thursday of each month. Concertgoers are encouraged to blankets, chairs and coolers.

OCTOBER 20 | NOVEMBER 17 | DECEMBER 15

Stay connected with us!

August 6 - 19, 2016

GET IN SHAPE NOW!

32,000 SQUARE FOOT, AIR-CONDITIONED FACILITY WITH AN INDOOR HEATED POOL

P E R SPOENRASL OTN RA G EI N TG T HAT E MIOTSST B FR AILN ITNRG A-I N EOSMT !L I F E

Lose Weight ★ Lose Weight

Increase Stamina ★ Increase Stamina Stronger ★ GetGet Stronger

Does your child have the spirit of an Olympian?

Look ★ Look GreatGreat

★ Improve Confidence ★ Sleep Better  Sleep Better ★ Tighten Arms and Butt  Tighten Arms and Butt ★ Improve Conditioning  Improve Conditioning ★ Improve Health  Improve Health ★ Lower Blood Pressure  Improve Confidence

 Lower Blood Pressure

FREE FREE

30 30Minute Minute Session! Session!

Free T-Shirt

AtLower John Allen’s Training, get results! your Personal golf score, run awe marathon, John Allen, onyour Goodgrandchildren, Morning America, has keepasupseen with beenhike ratedaas one of the remodel top trainers in the country. mountain, your home,

Must mention this ad to receive offer. Must mention this ad to receive offer.

with

Registration

dance all night! Come see what everybody is talking about!

We offer classes ages 6 months and up:

personal training group fitness training nutritional counseling fitness assessment sports related injuries smoothie bar

• Gymnastics • Tumbling • Trampoline • Martial Arts • Dance

(480) 917-7270 www.johnallensaz.com

2915 S. Alma School Rd., Ste. 8

•

JUMPERS

•

$30 value. New enrollment only. Not valid with any other offer. Please enter promo code SANTANSUN at time of registration. Expires 10-31-16.

480-820-3774

www.aspirekidsports.com

Appointments from: Mon.-Thurs. 5 a.m.-8 p.m. • Fri. 5 a.m.-6 p.m. • Sat. 6 a.m.-2 p.m. • Sun. Closed

HUNTERS

• Swimming • Camps • Birthday Parties

50 S. Hearthstone Way, Chandler 85226 — 1 Block W of Chandler Fashion Center

EQUITATION

Beginner through advanced lessons for all ages.

www.crossroadsfarm.com

Gilbert Rd.

480-812-8924

Lindsay Rd.

Home of the ASU Equestrian Team, and the Crossroads East Valley High School IEA Team -you don’t need your own horse to participate!

Ray Rd.

460 E. Ray Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85296

Neighbors

www.SanTanSun.com

Christian music fills the Valley air this August

Center, preschool celebrating anniversary with barbecue

page 61

page 69

Chandler resident brings new soccer team to East Valley BY CONNOR DZIAWURA

It’s the most popular sport in the world and it’s coming to the Valley. Arizona will soon be getting a new professional soccer team: FC Arizona. FC Arizona is hosting a launch party at Mesa Community College from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5. This launch party will feature FC Arizona’s stadium announcement, jersey reveal and the announcement of its first signed player. Mesa Mayor John Giles and Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels will be in attendance. Brought to the Valley by Chandler resident and owner Scott Taylor, FC Arizona will begin its first season in Spring 2017. Arizona United Soccer Club, in the West Valley, is in a different league. “This new team is located in the East Valley and is in a different professional league than the one in West Valley,” Taylor said. “We are focused on building a quality new club. “In a broader sense, giving the East Valley really its first professional team that I know of besides maybe the Spring Training games.” During a family trip to Scotland last year, Taylor went to a game and came away with a desire to bring a new team to Arizona. “I went to a game in Scotland and I just came away thinking ‘I have to bring this same kind of experience to Arizona,” he said. “So, I started figuring out ‘how can I do it?’” Taylor is excited for the experience and looks forward to bringing it to the residents of the East Valley. “It’s a desire to really have a team of our own and to build something special for the whole community,” he said. Former professional player Aidan Davison will coach FC Arizona. Davison played

professional in England for 22 years and with Ireland for several seasons in the 1990s. Following his retirement from Colchester United in 2008, he coached for several teams, including Florida’s FC JAX Destroyers. FC Arizona also operates youth camps to teach kids how to play soccer. By assigning professional soccer players to each youth, the FC Arizona youth camps provides kids with the experience and knowledge necessary to develop their skills. FC Arizona will have access to Major League Soccer players Nat Borchers and Andrew Weber, as well as their own players and coaching staff, including Davison. “That’s what I’m most proud about because I’m a parent of a kid that plays soccer, and so, I really wanted to connect with the kids in a meaningful way,” Taylor said. The youth camp also provides each attendee with a season ticket and FC Arizona T-shirt. Taylor is looking to make FC Arizona more affordable, with season tickets priced at $90 for 10 games. The season is set to begin March 4 at MCC’s John D. Riggs Stadium. The team will partner with local bars to provide happy hour and a pre-game block party. Details about league and division will be announced in the coming months. IF YOU GO What: FC Arizona Launch Party When: 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 Where: Mesa Community College, Student Center, Navajo Room, 1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa Cost: Free Information: fcarizona.com

VOLVO LIFETIME PARTS & LABOR WARRANTY PAY ONCE - NEVER PAY AGAIN *Excludes consumable parts due to normal wear. See dealer for details. Nontransferable.

www.VolvoOfTempe.com ELLIOT RD

101 202

SANTAN FWY

8060 S. AUTOPLEX LOOP TEMPE, AZ 85284

August 6 - 19, 2016

480.941.2400 SALES - SERVICE - PARTS

Where kids eat free page 78

Student spends summer in Tajikistan helping children who are autistic BY JARED MCDONALD

Catie Carson developed a love for international travel in the fifth grade when her family moved to China for three years. This summer, the Chandler woman went on her own adventure for six weeks when she volunteered as one of American’s unofficial ambassadors with IRODA, the only autism spectrum disorder advocacy nongovernmental organization in Tajikistan. Tajikistan is a central Asian country that borders Afghanistan, China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. “Coming back having heard their stories and understanding their challenges and way of life is something I really want to share here,” said Carson, a junior at ASU’s Barrett, The Honors College. She kept the children at the center entertained, updated the organization’s website with material in English and helped with group activities. “This creates more positive relationships with American students and other countries,” said Carson. “It promotes understanding of these other cultures.” Autism is not well understood in

Arizona College Prep graduate Catie Carson traveled to Tajikistan to work with autistic children.

Tajikistan, which results in misdiagnosis and mistrust toward individuals with autism, said Carson. IRODA began in see

CATIE CARSON page 46

Moon China Bistro shines bright BY JUDI KING

A native of Guangdong, China, Dan Zhen is committed to giving diners an authentic Chinese experience with his restaurants Moon China Bistro in Chandler and Moon China Restaurant in San Tan Valley. He said that the two restaurants share the same menu and philosophy. “We offer delicious, healthy food prepared fresh daily, and strive to give you a memorable, authentic Chinese food dining experience,” he said. Zhen moved to Arizona from China in 1999 and worked in restaurants serving his home country’s food around the Valley to gain experience. He opened the Moon China Restaurant in 2008 where his brother, Sam, is the head cook. Zhen said that he and his brother created traditional, authentic Cantonese and Mandarin cuisine using old family recipes. Zhen is committed to the quality of the food preparation. “We do not cut corners. We make quality, fresh food in our kitchen each day. The food does not sit around waiting for customers. We make it when the customer orders,” he said. Zhen has been known to put his own spin on traditional dishes. The Moon China

Moon China Bistro celebrated its grand opening on July 1 in the Ocotillo Fiesta Shopping Center in Chandler.

special chicken features his spicy chef sauce combined with lightly fried chicken, snow peas, water chestnuts, carrots and bamboo shoots ($8.95). Another of Zhen’s see

MOON CHINA page 48

Neighbors

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

Real estate agent vying for national roller skating title BY TIM J. RANDALL

Jennifer Maxwell never felt like she fit in as a member of the roller derby league, Arizona Derby Dames. So when the Chandler real estate agent broke her leg, it was a blessing. She followed her calling and became an artistic roller skater with the Glendalebased Arizona Skate Club. Through Aug. 8, Maxwell is in Lincoln, Nebraska, participating in the USA Roller Sports National Figure Championships. “Thousands and thousands of skaters will be there,” said Maxwell, who works with Re/Max Infinity Realty. “It’s a massive event.” Led by well-known roller skater Nancy Manning, Arizona Skate Club won 18 medals recently at the Southwest Pacific Artistic Roller Sports Championships for Arizona/ California/Nevada held at the Fresno Convention and Entertainment Center in the Fresno, California. Out of 30 event entries, the Arizona Skate Club were given 10 gold medals, four silver medals and four bronze medals. Fourteen of the 15 club skaters who

CATIE CARSON from page 45 2008 when parents of autistic children in Tajikistan wanted to create a center for education and care of autistic children. “People are ashamed of having a child with autism because they don’t understand what it is,” said Carson. “Children are often put in institutions, but IRODA is finding an alternative to that.”

competed at regionals qualified for the USA Roller Sports National Figure Championships at Speedway Village Sports Center in Lincoln. Maxwell will be among those participating by virtue of a solid performance. And these artists on wheels are not your teenage Saturday afternoon skaters. “Most of the club members who compete are in their 50s and 60s,” said Maxwell, who is 53. At nationals, Maxwell will perform multiple dances including Casino Tango, Double Cross Waltz, City Blues and Skater’s March. The skaters will perform to live organ music, something she has yet to do. “The one thing about the organ music is that the tempo doesn’t change,” she said. “But it feels like you have a lot more time. I don’t get that. One hundred and thirty eight beats per minute is 138 beats per minute.” A Boston native, Maxwell is coached and trained by Manning, and is excited about the prospects for the nationals. “We will do very well,” she said. “Nancy is one of the best

skaters, she is incredible.” Maxwell is hopeful that the sport will modernize its music and appeal to draw younger skaters. “I think we are going to move in that direction,” she said. With a great membership, Manning is excited about the sport’s future. “The Arizona Skate Club is putting the state of Arizona on the map in the world of roller skating,” she said. Maxwell and her colleagues also teach younger skaters, while not practicing four to five days a week. “All of us are qualified instructors,” Maxwell said. Now several years into her skating passion, Maxwell reflects on how quickly she has picked up the nuances of the sport. “When I moved to Arizona a few years back I tried roller skating to keep cool in the summer,” she said while laughing. “I first started out in roller derby, but after an injury I decided it was probably not best for my body. I got good real fast at skate dance.” To learn more about Arizona Skate Club, visit http://azsk8champs.styma.org/.

Carson was able to connect to the mothers and children at IRODA despite the language and culture barrier, and hopes that one day she can reconnect with them. “I would love to volunteer again for kids with disabilities,” said Carson. A psychology major, Carson was inspired to volunteer at the institution

after developing an interest in mental health advocacy and therapy. “I want to do something hands on and work with people that I can help,” said Carson, an Arizona College Prep graduate. “Something that can have a direct impact on the people I’m working with.” She said she is interested in going to graduate school, and in possibly pursuing

Your Life.

Our Commitment.

“

Stephan, Desert Ridge athlete, speaks of humankindness The athletic trainers took care of my injury and helped me to get better. They took me in as if I was one of their family members. The crew had no problem getting me back on the field with great care, helping me prevent re-injury. Read his story or learn more about the program: supportdignityhealtheastvalley.org

”

Chandler real estate agent Jennifer Maxwell took up artistic roller skating to keep cool in the summer.

a doctorate degree. “Going to Tajikistan was an amazing experience, and a great way to experience the country,” said Carson. “I wasn’t just a tourist, I was able to gain more insight to their culture and make a difference while I was there. I want to bring that understanding back to America.”

www.SanTanSun.com

Neighbors

August 6 - 19, 2016

AMERICAN LIFESTYLE FURNITURE Great Value - Best Buy - Live Life Comfortably Hundreds of Styles ★ Thousands of Fabrics and Leather to Choose From!

BE YOUR DESIGNER! COMPLETED HOME FURNISHINGS

50% OFF All Mattresses

30% OFF

All Accessories

Non-Advertised Items 10% to 60% OFF Some exclusions may apply. See store for details. must present coupon. Expires 8-31-16.

623.773.9096 7720 W. Bell Rd. Suite A Glendale, AZ 85308

480.786.0777

Hours:

1980 N. Alma School Road Chandler, AZ 85224

Monday - Friday: 10 am - 8 pm • Saturday: 10 am - 7 pm • Sunday: 11 am - 6 pm *Restrictions apply. Not applicable on current sale or discontinued items. See store for details.

50% OFF

on deilvery and set up with minimum $1000.00 purchase

Does not apply w/previous purchase. Not valid with any other offer or coupons. Expires 8-31-16.

Visit us online: www.MyAmericanFurnitureGalleries.com

August 6 - 19, 2016

MOON CHINA from page 45 creations is his signature pineapple sauce which is used in the dish, sweet Hawaii—a pineapple stir fry with vegetables and chicken or beef ($8.95 to $9.25)—and also in pineapple beef which is comprised of wok-seared lightly battered beef slices, with pineapple, onions and bell peppers in chili pineapple sauce ($10.95). Although Moon China Bistro is a small restaurant, the menu is extensive. Traditional Chinese fare such as kung pao, General Tso, Mongolian, orange chicken and moo goo gai pan are some of the 17 classic entrees ($8.95 to $10.25). Cantonese shrimp and honey-walnut shrimp ($10.95 to $12.95) are among the 12 chef specialties, all of which come with rice, egg roll and crab wonton. There are five items on the noodles and rice menu including Singapore rice noodles, a dish that combines angel hair

Neighbors

www.SanTanSun.com

rice noodles wok-fried with scrambled egg, vegetables, yellow curry and a choice of meat, tofu or shrimp, or a combination ($7.25 to $9.25). The lunch menu has 24 large-sized entrees—most from the classic menu— and comes with a choice of rice, egg roll and cheese-filled wonton for $5.95 to $6.95. Order take-out from the lunch menu before 3:30 p.m. for a low-priced dinner at home. Appetizers ($2.50 to $9.95), soups ($2.50 to $6.95), vegetables and tofu served with a choice of rice ($7.95), as well as a family meal ($12.95) and kids’ meals ($3.95) round out the menu. Moon China Bistro 3165 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 16 Chandler 85248 480-855-8550 moonchinabistro.com Moon special chicken features spicy chef sauce with lightly fried chicken, snow peas, water chestnuts, carrots and bamboo shoots.

Owner Dan Zhen opened his restaurant after gaining experience throughout the Valley. STSN photo by Judi King

This Singapore rice noodle dish is created with rice noodles wok-fried with scrambled egg, vegetables, yellow curry and shrimp.

Orange chicken is a favorite at Moon China Bistro.

Neighbors

www.SanTanSun.com

August 6 - 19, 2016

Ocotillo Village hosting healthy dose of events in September Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa puts an emphasis not only on staying active, but also remaining social. This summer and fall, Ocotillo Village Health Club is offering a slew of events to do just that. In August and September, Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa is combining wine and staying fit by hosting an interactive tasting class. For $35 per person or $60 per couple, guests can experience a fun and informative night of wine tasting. Each month the facility will highlight wines from different regions around the world and include a guided tour of eight different wines from certified sommelier Mark Massimi. The highlighted wine regions will be paired with a variety of charcuterie, prepared by Ocotillo Village Executive Chef Isaac Rios. The upcoming World Wine Tour Tasting Series events are Thursday, Aug 25, and Friday, Aug. 26 (Bordeaux, France), and Thursday, Sept. 22, and Friday, Sept. 23 (California). Additionally, guests can get their wine and workout fix with the Vinyasa Vino series at 10 a.m. Saturdays in August. The Vinyasa Vino series serves as the perfect balance of wine and yoga, with a 60-minute yoga session, followed by wine at Wine Vine Uncorked for $20. The Wine Vine Uncorked is located at 4920 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 3, Chandler. Tennis programs People often shy away from group sports programs because they are afraid that their skill level isn’t up to par or that they’re more advanced than the beginners. At the Ocotillo Village Health Club &

Spa, classes are hyper focused toward each member’s skillset, age and ambitions. In August, the Ocotillo Village Tennis Fall program kicks off a lineup of classes to accommodate members wishing to play tennis this season. Sessions begin soon. Two eight-week adult development programs start at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8, or 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10. There is a program for more advanced players beginning at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 9, or 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11. Younger tennis beginners can choose to enroll in the ROGY Jr. Program for an eight-week session starting the week of Aug. 8. It will split participants into groups depending on age, strengths and skills specific to each athlete. For those wishing to harness specific tennis techniques, Ocotillo Village is also offering a Stroke of the Week class for players of all abilities. It will address a different stroke at each one-hour class on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. or Thursdays at 7 a.m. More advanced tennis players can choose to enroll in The Strategy of the Week class, available for players 3.5 and above. It covers different tennis strategies for both singles and doubles on Mondays (7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.) or Wednesdays (6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.). There is also a ball machine class, which allows players the opportunity to work with a pro on their side of the net. The adult doubles leagues offer the chance to stay fit and be social. The men’s and women’s leagues begin the week of Aug. 8. For more information or to sign up for the adult double leagues, contact, Emily Callison at ecallison@dmbclubs.com.

In August and September, Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa is combining wine and staying fit by hosting an interactive tasting class.

Pilates training It’s easy to get stuck in a rut with any workout routine. This is why the Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa is encouraging guests to switch things up by trying new and innovative Pilates classes, including the small group Pilates training class. Pilates incorporates a series of movements that help to stabilize and strengthen your core. Reports say Pilates is a great form of exercise because you use your own body weight instead of actual weights to make your body stronger, and you will be engaging muscles all over your body but in a strong and gentle way. This month, Ocotillo Village Health

Club & Spa will have a small groups Pilates training class for four weeks beginning Wednesday, Aug. 24. Classes will be offered at 11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. The cost is $240 for eight classes. The Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa is located at 4200 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler. For more information about the upcoming small group Pilates training classes, contact Linda Bernal at lbernal@dmbclubs.com. For more information about the upcoming fall tennis programs, contact the director of tennis at Ocotillo Village, Josh Bates at jbates@dmbclubs.com. To learn more about the Village Health Clubs & Spas, visit villageclubs.com.

ONLY 5 HOMES REMAINING! Upscale, intimate community of only 15 homes on villa sized lots, located in the highly sought after Ocotillo area of Chandler

Square footage range from 1,970 – 2,300 Prices from $334,700. Extremely Energy Efficient

Sales by: Acacia Properties, Inc.

(480) 372-8211 1850 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler keystonehomesaz.com

Neighbors

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

MMA expert bringing awareness to Best Buddies BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Chandler martial arts expert Paul McGowan could be considered a “best buddy” to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Tullamore, Ireland, native is an advocate for Best Buddies, a nonprofit organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It serves those with Down syndrome, autism, Fragile X, Williams syndrome, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury and undiagnosed disabilities. He’s been working with Best Buddies for three years, but about a year ago he joined the advisory board. In late July, his Chandler MMA’s spinathon raised more than $6,000 for Best Buddies. “We recently sat down and discussed the future and the calendar of events,” McGowan said. “We have a Buddy Prom coming up at the Arizona Science Center, which is fantastic. It’s totally free to all the buddies. Watching them dance would melt snow and bring a tear to anybody’s eye.” Its October gala is its biggest fundraiser, collecting upwards of $300,000. It’s held at the Scottsdale home of TV personality Tara Hitchcock. “We have beautiful cars that drive people from Nordstrom to the house,” he said. “It’s a black-tie affair.” Prizes include tickets to concerts and a Learjet ride to Beverly Hills with accommodations. McGowan said Best Buddies Arizona

helps 50 schools in Arizona, but there are 1,400 who need the partnership. McGowan, who moved to the United States after winning a green card in a lottery at age 17, is hoping to increase awareness of the international organization by running in the Ironman Dublin in his home country of Ireland. He is donning a Best Buddies uniform that features a graphic of Jessica Dunn, a developmentally disabled woman who has passed away. “Not only is it a massive thing for me to bring in Best Buddies, but I’ll be attending developmental meetings with the Tullamore-Chandler Cities. It’s like Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities like we have here.” McGowan is leaving for Tullamore on Aug. 10. While there, he will discuss Chandler’s relationship with its sister city. He said Chandler has embraced him. “I didn’t finish school,” he said. “Ireland wasn’t as prosperous. Here, there were opportunities for me to work and prove myself. I’m fortunate to have a decent business here in Chandler. The community has been great about supporting me.” McGowan added that his life with Chandler MMA—and Best Buddies—is fulfilling. “Especially in my line of work,” he said. “With martial arts, we’re making the community a better community. We’re boosting self-esteem and selfconfidence. That’s why I’m so passionate about Best Buddies.

Paul McGowan recently hosted a spinathon benefit for Best Buddies at his Chandler MMA. STSN photo by Cheryl Haselhorst

“I will teach someone with Down syndrome, or someone with down syndrome. I’d someone who’s mentally handicapped (achieve) black belt. Everybody deserves to be taught. It’s about inclusion.”

For more information about Best Buddies, visit https://bestbuddies.org/ find-programs/arizona/. Chandler MMA is at 5955 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Call 480-234-3683 or visit chandlermma.com for more information.

Need More Storage?

USE YOUR GARAGE CEILING!

LIFETIME WARRANTY HOLDS UP TO 600LBS A+ RATING BBB THOUSANDS OF HAPPY CUSTOMERS

$219

One 4x8 Ceiling Rack FREE INSTALLATION

480.452.5418

$399

Two 4x8 Ceiling Racks FREE INSTALLATION

ACSRARIZONA.COM LICENSED AND INSURED #297021

www.SanTanSun.com

Neighbors

August 6 - 19, 2016

Neighbors

August 6 - 19, 2016

Ramon Elias receives Spirit of Tempe Award BY JARED MCDONALD

Former president and CEO of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the East Valley Ramon Elias, 66, received the prestigious Spirit of Tempe Award for his commitment to improving the quality of life in the city. “Ramon has given so much of his time and energy to our community,” said Mary Ann Miller, president and CEO of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce. “He is an inspiration. His strength of character and dedication to service have benefitted so many people. I’m humbled to have the opportunity to recognize him with this honor.” A Chandler resident, Elias worked for the Boys and Girls Clubs of the East Valley for 43 years after graduating from ASU, starting as the physical education director at the Ladmo Branch in Tempe. He rose through the ranks, eventually becoming president in 1995. “When I started, we had one club that didn’t even have a gym,” said Elias. “Now, we have 12 big, beautiful clubs across the East Valley and a charter school.” Elias said he was inspired to work with children after working as a playground supervisor at an elementary school in California. “Kids are always full of excitement and every day is a great day to them,” he said. “What an opportunity to shape the minds of kids.” The goal of the clubs from the beginning was to keep kids busy and out of trouble, Elias said. The clubs give kids and teens a place to go after school and engages them

with fun activities. “When kids are having fun and being positive, they don’t have time to get into negative behavior,” said Elias. The clubs expanded across the East Valley as more communities wanted and supported the clubs, said Elias. He was approached by members of East Valley communities after they saw the positive effect the clubs had on their municipalities. “The communities saw the difference when kids have a place to go and are busy,” he said. “The clubs really belong to the communities they’re in.” Elias is a nationally respected leader in the Boys and Girls Clubs of America organization. He received the prestigious “Masters and Mentors” award, the highest honor bestowed to a Boys and Girls Clubs staff member, becoming the first executive in Arizona to receive the award. Elias retired in 2015, leaving behind a legacy that spans the East Valley. “When you retire, you think ‘did anyone care?’” he said. “When you’re recognized by your peers and community, that means a great deal because it means you’re leaving things better than when you started.” Elias said he thinks the clubs will continue to grow along with the East Valley and will continue to have a positive effect on kids’ lives. “Thousands of kids went through our doors,” he said. “A lot of them have brought their own kids back. For years to come, I know those buildings will be there.”

www.SanTanSun.com

NATIONAL S’MORES DAY

Celebrate National S’Mores Day from 11 a.m. to close Wednesday, Aug. 10, at Eklectic Pie, 2990 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. The 99-cent deal is good with purchase; limit one per person. For more information, call 480-855-7342 or visit eklecticpie.com.

Stroke Technology, Community Resource Fair and Silent Auction

Thursday, August 11, 2016 4:00-6:00 pm Open to the community. We will have therapists, pharmacists and other neuro-wellness experts on hand to highlight the innovative technology and stroke programs available at HealthSouth East Valley Rehab Hospital. Other local healthcare partners will be in attendance as well. Light hors d’ oeuvres and beverages will be served. There will also be a silent auction with all moneys raised benefiting the Dignity Health Foundation Dancing For Stroke event October 1. For more information, contact Diana Fischer at (480) 477-7109.

5652 E. BASELINE ROAD • MESA, AZ 85206 480 567-0350 • healthsoutheastvalley.com

Neighbors

www.SanTanSun.com

August 6 - 19, 2016

City gearing up to celebrate 60th Tumbleweed Tree Lighting

Robson Branch Library rolls out list of its ‘awesome’ upcoming classes It’s still hot outside, but the Ed Robson Branch Library has some cool programs coming up. The Area Agency on Aging will discuss its services and programs at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 9. Maricopa County residents older than 60 are eligible for a number of free services through the organization. The programs include a 24hour senior helpline, Ageworks for those seeking employment and elder rights. Channel 12 meteorologist Dr. Matt Pace will discuss his job as he kicks off the “Awesome Occupations” series at 10:30

a.m. Saturday, Aug. 13. The weather anchor will explain how he predicts weather and what exactly he does. The program is intended for children ages 5 to 12, but all are welcome. For both these events, patrons are asked to visit the library customer service desk the same day for a free ticket; limit two per person. Park in the church lot next to the library. The Ed Robson Branch Library is located at 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. For more information, call 602-652-3000, or go to mcldaz.org.

BETTER than GRANITE

Done in a day. Beautiful for life.

Only Granite Transformations uses ForeverSeal™, which means our granite is more stain and scratch resistant than “ordinary” granite. And our surfaces bond permanently over existing countertops, walls, showers and tubs, so you get lifelong beauty without the usual renovation mess. Most installations are done in a day and backed by a LIFETIME WARRANTY.

480-222-2022 • Heat and Stain Resistant • No Demolition

1230 West Southern Ste. 103 Tempe, AZ 85282 http://www.granitetransformations.com/phoenix/

• Lifetime Warranty

ROC 185966

Few in the community have holiday planning on the brain this time of year, but the city’s Special Events and Parks teams are already in the trenches planning Chandler’s 60th annual Tumbleweed Tree Lighting celebration set for Saturday, Dec. 3. In 1957, when Chandler resident Earl Barnum raised the idea of a tumbleweed tree after he saw a similar one in Indiana built out of cone-shaped chicken wire and pine boughs, no one would have predicted where—or even if—the tradition would exist in 2016, or the importance it would have in the lives of East Valley families. “We have been planning this for some time, and we’re gearing up for a lot of excitement,” said Hermelinda Llamas, Chandler’s special events coordinator. “We’ve spent a lot of time digging through our files andscrapbooks to remind ourselves of the fun we’ve had and the great stuff we’ve done—and everything that is to come.” One look at what has happened in the past should offer plenty of reasons to celebrate. Here’s some of what’s in store for December’s 60th tree lighting: • New logo. The new look presents a dynamic, more visually commanding presentation of the event name and the iconic tumbleweed tree. Expect tosee the new branding on various digital platforms, including the city’s website and social media channels. The logo also will appear in special advertising

later this year. • Commemorative Ornament. Celebrate the season with the city’s commemorative holiday ornament. The community can sign up to be entered to win a piece of Chandler’s holiday history now through Nov. 16. Entries are accepted online only at chandleraz.gov/ tumbleweedtree. The contest is open to residents and nonresidents, and those selected must pick up the ornament between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1. • Community Collage. Past attendees of Chandler’s annual holiday fête are invited to upload pictures of their favorite Tumbleweed Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights memories. Pictures will be incorporated into special Tumbleweed Tree tributes and advertising. The city is offering three photo scan days at the Tumbleweed Recreation Center—10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 8; 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 14; and 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Nov. 9. These activities and others created specifically to reflect this milestone year will culminate on Dec. 3, with the 60th lighting of the Tumbleweed Tree in downtown Chandler. For more information, visit chandleraz. gov/tumbleweedtree. Follow all of the planning fun and behind-thescenes action on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Remember to share the magic of the holiday season and use #TumbleweedTree when sharing photos.

Neighbors

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

Break Time recreation guide returns to newsstands in Chandler

Learn about ataxia and have fun at association’s family gathering

Chandler is a recess-ready city, offering plenty of playgrounds, activities and inspiration the whole family can enjoy. Break away from the ordinary and pick up the city’s quarterly Break Time recreation guide, which covers September, October and November and features a variety of leisure and lifestyle classes and programs for people of all ages. In the spirit of family togetherness, here are five picks for family-friendly thrills this fall: • Test the Waters: For aquaticbased fun consider Aqua Fit classes featuring water aerobics and lap swim. • Bug Out: Celebrate beautiful insects during the annual Dragonfly & Butterfly Bash. Enjoy guided nature walks, hands-on crafts and presentations for all ages. (Saturday, Sept. 24) • S tretch Your Limits: Yogis of all abilities can find physical and mental nourishment at any one of the city’s recreation centers. Classes range in intensity from soothing to strenuous. • Get Your Wheels Turning: The calorietorching qualities of indoor cycling are hard to beat and a great way to increase strength and improve your cardiovascular health. Move and groove to superb routines. • Make Some Racquet: Get your heart rate

The Arizona Ataxia Support Group, a nonprofit associated with the National Ataxia Foundation (NAF), is hosting a family-friendly awareness event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, at St. Xavier University, 92 W. Vaughn Ave., Gilbert. This event is free to the public and will boast a 50-item silent auction, children’s activity area, clowns, face painting, games and prizes. Last year’s special guest was Howler from the Arizona Coyotes. Expect a similar figure to surprise children this year. Dr. Kamala Saha will kick off the event by discussing ataxia. A chair yoga demonstration and other local programs will follow. A raffle will be held a grand prize of a one-night stay at the Phoenician Resort with dinner for two at J&G Steakhouse. First prize is 32-inch HDTV from Spencers TV & Appliance; second and third prize will be announced soon. A silent auction will feature more than 50 items. Ataxia is a group of rare and often fatal degenerative neurological disorders that affect more than 150,000 people in the United States. Symptoms are progressive and often impact coordination, hearing, vision and speech. Ataxia affects both genders and all ages, but too often ataxia strikes children and young adults. At this time, there is no

up and your blood pumping with cardio tennis. Each session includes a variety of fast-paced drills and live ball play. Printed copies of the recreation guide are available at City facilities and a digital version can be accessed online at chandleraz.gov/breaktime. Priority registration for residents opens 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, with general nonresident registration beginning at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 12. Registration can be done online at chandleraz.gov/ registration, by mail or in person at four locations: • Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave. • Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd. • Snedigar Recreation Center, 4500 S. Basha Rd. umbleweed Recreation Center, •T 745 E. Germann Rd. Swim program registration also can be done in person at the Aquatics Administrative offices at 650 E. Ryan Rd. For more information on class registration, call 480-782-2727. Keep up to date on the latest Chandler Recreation news and information when you “Like” the Chandler Recreation Facebook page, subscribe to Chandler Recreation on YouTube and follow @ ChandlerRec on Twitter and Instagram.

55 $65 $148 ONLY

MADISON FOOTHILLS 4910 E. Chandler Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85048 480.759.3308

FULTON RANCH 4955 S. Alma School Rd. Chandler, AZ 85248 480.621.7703

CHANDLER 3111 W. Chandler Blvd. Chandler, AZ 85226 480.899.8905

GILBERT 81 S. McQueen Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85233 480.300.5100

Last year, the Arizona Coyotes’ mascot Howler made a guest appearance at the Arizona Ataxia Awareness Extravaganza.

effective treatment or cure for ataxia. For more details or to be a vendor, contact ArizonaAtaxia@gmail.com or to donate visit http://ataxia.donorpages.

HANDS & FEET Spa Manicure Spa Pedicure

V E N U E S A L O N & D AY S PA

BACK TO SCHOOL ONLY RELAXATION 2016 Express (UP TO AGE Facial 21)

ANY SERVICE

FOOTHILLS 4910 E. Chandler Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85048 480.759.3308 facebook.com/ spamadisonave

½ Hour Swedish Massage

TOTAL BODY

Express Facial | Classic Pedicure ½ Hour Swedish Massage Hair Treatment with Style

FULTON RANCH 4955 S. Alma School Rd. Chandler, AZ 85248 480.621.7703

CHANDLER GILBERT OASIS 3111 W. Chandler Blvd. S. McQueen Rd. Subject81 to availability and with Select Service only. CannotAZ be combined Chandler, AZ 85226 ProvidersGilbert, 85233with any offer. Offer runs during a promotional time 480.899.8905 other 480.300.5100 only, see in salon for details. Expires 8/18/16.

spamadison.com

Neighbors

www.SanTanSun.com

The Verano Sano pool party will include safety demonstrations.

August 6 - 19, 2016

Kids can play games during the Verano Sano pool party, a Valleywide initiative that stresses safety and family fun.

Families invited to the Verano Sano party at Chandler’s Arrowhead Pool Chandler’s Arrowhead Pool will host a free pool party dubbed Verano Sano (Safe Summer) from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, which will include music, refreshments and raffle prizes. The pool is at 1475 W. Erie St. Verano Sano is a Valleywide campaign that combines water safety

awareness in a series of fun, familyfriendly activities. The city’s Aquatics Division is working with Salt River Project (SRP), Que Buena 105.9 Radio and Univision Communications to bring the event to Chandler. Raffle drawings for prizes will be held throughout the event and include chances to win free

swimming classes, life vests, movie passes and more. Chandler Fire, Health and Medical will have a fire engine on site and provide CPR demonstrations. Swim instructors will also be on hand to perform demonstrations and provide instruction.

Just Listed!

In addition, the Drowning Prevention Coalition of Arizona, SRP, Univision, Chandler Fire, Health & Medical and others will have information booths and water safety information. For more information, contact Chandler Aquatics at 480-782-2750.

10631 South 51st Street Phoenix, Arizona 85004

$13

Up to 6264 s/f of office or medical space available. Lovely twin buildings with a great Ahwatukee location. Location: I-10 & Elliot Excellent location with easy access to I-10, Sky Harbor Airport, Tempe, ASU or Downtown Phoenix. 2353 s/f of finished office or medical space at $13.50 NNN, with reception areas, large private offices, large open areas with break room facilities, board/meeting rooms and two washrooms. Owner is creative and may change to suit. These are also owner-managed twin buildings showing pride of ownership, with a low CAM/NNN fee of approx. $3.75 per sq. ft. Join these great tenants: Edward Jones, Ahwatukee News, JMW Construction, Wilson Properties, Cottam Chiropractic and Piller Child Development Center. Floor plan is available. Exit I-10 at Elliot, go one block west and turn right on 51st Street. Take the next right off 51st Street and a quick left into the parking area. We are right next to the Wells Fargo Bank. Easy to show, call anytime: Richard 602-695-5491.

For more info contact: Richard Burton

Realty Arizona Elite Group

7777 W. Deer Valley Rd., Ste. B-150, Peoria, AZ 85382

602-695-5491

Neighbors

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

SanTan Brewing hosting slew of events SanTan Brewing Company has a busy late summer/early fall planned for lovers of all-things beer. Join SanTan Brewing Company for its annual Jerry Day at the Brewpub! Set for Aug. 13, Jerry Day is a birthday celebration of Grateful Dead frontman, Jerry Garcia. Jerry Day will feature a special tapping of “Standing on the Moon” Nitrogenated MoonJuice IPA. Plus, enjoy Dead tunes all day with live music from Grateful Dead cover band, Monkey & the Engineer from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tie Die SanTan T-shirts and parking lot party-themed food specials including bean and cheese burritos and grilled cheese sandwiches will be available for purchase. There is no cost to attend. Oktoberfest Lager SanTan Brewing Company has released its fall seasonal, Oktoberfest Lager, a traditional German lager brewed annually for SanTan’s Oktoberfest celebration in Chandler. Oktoberfest made its debut in 2008 as SanTan’s first anniversary event. It is now Arizona’s longest-running Oktoberfest brew. Now, in its ninth year, SanTan is celebrating with a new can in its fresh new look branding. In 2014, SanTan Brewing released Oktoberfest for the first time in cans. From 2014-2015, SanTan saw a 14% increase in Oktoberfest sales within

Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers will headline Oktoberfest.

the Arizona market. “We’re proud to be Arizona’s No. 1 locally owned brewery and thrilled to celebrate nine years of business with a pint of our locally brewed Oktoberfest beer. Our efforts are a labor of love and we’re so thankful for everyone that has supported us and this brew over the years,” said Anthony Canecchia, founder and brewmaster, SanTan Brewing Company. Brewed in the Southwestern Style, Oktoberfest Lager is a malty beer with a slight sweet aroma of caramel and spice. This craft beer pairs perfectly with bratwurst, schnitzel, soft pretzels

and traditional fall spiced dishes that feature nutmeg, cinnamon and of course, pumpkin spice.

more effervescent, crisp and refreshing hand crafted beer.

Oktoberfest Lager Quick Facts Style: Lager Malt: Vienna, Munich, 2-Row, Wheat, Special Roast and Caramel Malt Hops: Columbus / CTZ Yeast: German Lager ABV: 5.5% Color: Crimson Brown IBU: 20 SanTan’s brews are fermented to completion and carbonated higher than traditional American beers for a

GRAND OPENING!

Festival Returns Reel Big Fish and Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers are scheduled to headline SanTan Brewing’s Oktoberfest from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday Oct. 1, at Dr. AJ Chandler Park, 3 S. Arizona Pl. Professionally produced by HDE Agency and presented by Bashas’, this year’s event will highlight beer games, Von Hanson’s brat-eating contest, and family zone in celebration of SanTan Brewing’s ninth anniversary. The SanTan Brewing Oktoberfest

The ONE STOP SHOP for ALL Your Furniture Needs!

• Now offering rustic and distressed style furnishings • Sofas and sectional options made to order or take home immediately • Great selections of quality dining sets • Custom furniture for every room, without custom prices • Incredible, locally made mattresses at amazing prices • Most of our products are proudly made in the USA

Special Buys, Clearance & Close Outs Every Week! Call Today and Discover Unbelievable Savings!

GRAND OPENING SAVINGS FROM 10-50% OFF! NEW LOCATION CHANDLER SHOWROOM 1870 W. Germann Road • Chandler (NE Corner of Dobson & Germann)

480-726-7400

www.AtHomeFurnishingsAZ.com Mon-Sat 10am-7pm • Sun 10am-5pm

10% OFF 15% OFF 20% OFF

ANY PURCHASE

Excludes Clearance and Special Purchases

ANY PURCHASE $1500-$2999

Excludes Clearance and Special Purchases

ANY PURCHASE $3000 or MORE

Excludes Clearance and Special Purchases

Neighbors

www.SanTanSun.com

SanTan Brewing, six beers, private seating area, private restrooms and exclusive stage viewing access. A portion of the proceeds from the SanTan Brewing Oktoberfest benefit St. Joseph the Worker, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting the homeless, low income and other disadvantaged individuals in their efforts to become self-sufficient through quality employment. For more information about St. Joseph the Worker, visit sjwjobs.org. Oktoberfest is a malty beer with the sweet aroma of Open since 2007 under caramel and spice. the leadership of Canecchia, SanTan Brewing Company has will feature a Bavarian-style beer established a strong reputation as one garden. Other highlights include a of Arizona’s favorite craft breweries. beer pong tournament, bag toss, In 2009, SanTan Brewing began the buddy carry, stein holding, keg distributing their Southwestern-style ales stacking and tricycle races. throughout Arizona, operating with a Presale general admission tickets mission to pair craft beer with craft food. are on sale now for $12 online at Today, SanTan distributes in Arizona, santanoktoberfest.com or at SanTan California, New Mexico and Texas. Brewing Company. Kids 12 and under SanTan beers have won numerous are admitted for free with a paid national and statewide awards adult. Day of general admission will including a silver award at the World be $15. Starting Sept.1, presale tickets Beer Cup in 2016, two medals at the will be available for $10 at all Valley U.S. Open Beer Championship: bronze Bashas’ locations. in 2013 and gold in 2011. SanTan VIP tickets are available for $75 Brewing also took home a silver online, with limited availability. VIP medal at the 2011 Great American admission is for patrons 21 and over Beer Festival. and includes catered food from

August 6 - 19, 2016

Vintage Roadshow seeks vendors for its Thanksgiving weekend Even while vintage markets continue to explode in popularity throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area, none have yet made it to the most southeasterly portion of the Valley. But that is about to change when The Salvage Company brings its Vintage Roadshow to Queen Creek’s Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Center (HPEC) on the three busiest shopping days of the year: Nov. 25 to Nov. 27. Interested vendors should note that space is limited, with the number of booths capped at 87. Applications can be found here: vintageroadshows.com/vendors/. “We’re not trying to produce the biggest show,” said Salvage Company founder and event presenter Patricia Dickenson. “We just want it to be the best, with a never-before-seen mix of one-of-a-kind offerings.” When asked about site selection, Dickenson noted, “Whenever I’m picking in Southern Arizona or New Mexico, I

always end up stopping in Queen Creek and just love it, especially HPEC. It’s the perfect venue for Vintage Roadshow.” The event begins at 8 a.m. Friday, Nov. 25, with a two-hour, VIP-only shopping experience and concludes at 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27. Vintage Roadshow will be open to the general public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. The Salvage Company has been extending its vintage reach from the original storefront on historic Main Street in Superior not only through the Vintage Roadshow, but also with a new retail space in Phoenix, The Picker’s Palace, in partnership with Seriously Vintage. Dickenson got into shabby chic, architectural salvage, French country home furnishings, and home decor created from authentic found vintage materials more than 25 years ago. She operates The Salvage Co. with daughterin-law, Jodi Helmer.

Visit Our Award-winning Community in Chandler! Tour our professionally decorated models! • Single-family homes featuring indoor/outdoor living options. • Select from 5 distinctive floor plans ranging from approximately 2,700 – 4,500 sq. ft. • Final home sites released! • Amenities include tot lot, parks, basketball court, open space, and hiking & biking trails • Top-rated schools in Chandler School District

Priced from the mid-$400,000s

(480) 825-7946 For more information and to view the homes, visit Design trends, tips, recipes – find it all at

TollTV.com

Download the new Toll Brothers app today

TollBrothersAtAvianMeadows.com

Open Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 am to 5:30 pm, and Monday 12 noon to 5:30 pm. Brokers welcome. Homes available nationwide. Prices subject to change without notice. Photos are images only and should not be relied upon to confirm applicable features. This is not an offering where prohibited by law. Listing Broker Toll Brothers Real Estate, Inc. Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Google Play is a trademark of Google Inc.

August 6 - 19, 2016

Neighbors

NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKS Call ahead to conﬁrm information, as details occasionally change after print. If you have a recurring monthly meeting you would like to see listed in Neighborhood Networks, email complete details to News@SanTanSun.com. Note: SanTan Sun News has a Spiritual Connections column in the Spirituality section for ongoing religiousrelated events. About Care Monthly volunteer training, by individual appointment. A nonprofit serving homebound Chandler and Gilbert residents; provides transportation, shopping and errands, friendly visits, reassurance phone calls, and minor home repairs. Info: (480) 802-2331, www.aboutcare.org Absolute Business Builders: Business Networking International 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays Chompie’s 3841 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Nikki Janulewicz, (480) 570-1835, Nikki@azbestmove.com Action Networkers: Business Networking International 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays Chompie’s 3841 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Marty Recht, (602) 315-2056, Marty@AZMarty.com Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter, Chandler 5:30 p.m. second Thursday of the month Support group for caregivers of people with dementia. Free and no preregistration required. Chandler Regional Medical Center, Morrison Building, Learning Resource Room

1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Mindy, (602) 528-0545, ext. 201 American Legion James O. Schroeder Post 55 7 p.m. third Tuesday of the month Sun Lakes Country Club, Navajo Room 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes Info: Commander Byron Weston, (480) 802-6623 Arizona Special Education Network, Chandler area Provides disability-related education, advocacy and resources to help parents navigate the complex special education system. Info: (602) 531-0230 Breast Cancer Support Group 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. second Monday of each month Free, no preregistration required Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Info: Kelly, (480) 340-4013, www. ironwoodcrc.com Build Your Own Business: Chandler 8 a.m. ﬁrst and third Thursday of each month East Valley networking and referral organization, meets in Ahwatukee at a private location; address will be provided upon contact.

www.SanTanSun.com

Info: Lisa, lisa@lisamatusak.com, facebook.com/BYOBAZ Cancer Caregiver Support GroupChandler 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. third Saturday of each month Support group for caregivers of people with cancer. Free and no preregistration required. Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Info: Kelly, (480) 340-4013, www. ironwoodcrc.com Caregiver Support Group 10 p.m. to 12 p.m. third Saturday of each month Ironwood Cancer & Research Center 685 S. Dobson Dr., Chandler Info: Kelly Huey, (480) 340-4013, www. ironwoodcrc.com

Chandler Business Alliance 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Thursdays Professional business coalition dedicated to the economic and social development of its members and the Chandler community as a whole. BLD 1920 W. Germann Rd., Chandler Info: chandleralliance@gmail.com, www. chandleralliance.com Chandler Chamber Business Golf 7 a.m. tee time, ﬁrst and third Wednesdays of each month Includes nine holes of golf, continental breakfast and networking opportunities. Preregistration required online. Golf venue varies. Info: www.chandlerchamber.com

Chair Yoga Class-Chandler 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Wednesdays Free, no preregistration required Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Info: Kelly, (480) 340-4013, www. ironwoodcrc.com

Chandler Farmers Market 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursdays Weekly market with more than 30 vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, gourmet food and handmade crafts. Free admission. Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, on the east side of Arizona Avenue, Chandler Info: (480) 855-3539, www. downtownchandler.org

Chandler 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 Lions Club 6:30 p.m. ﬁrst and third Tuesdays of each month Area residents are invited to come join like-minded volunteers and make new friends. Atria Chandler Villas, Community Room 101 S. Yucca St., Chandler Info: RuthJon Wick, (480) 895-3569, az1ruthjon@q.com

www.chandleraz.gov/water

www.SanTanSun.com

Neighbors

August 6 - 19, 2016

Maricopa Health Foundation celebrates CopaBall 2016 BY PETER MADRID

Diversity is the keyword when it comes to describing the annual CopaBall, the primary fundraising event for the Maricopa Health Foundation. While the Valley is rich in charitable and philanthropic events, the CopaBall, established in 2003, benefits a wide array of public health programs in Metro Phoenix. The 13th annual CopaBall is scheduled for Oct. 22 at the Montelucia Resort & Spa. Benefiting the programs of the Maricopa Integrated Health System (MIHS), the event brings together leaders in healthcare, business and the philanthropic community. The event has raised more than $2.5 million to support the many diverse programs of MIHS. That’s what makes the foundation’s work satisfying, according to CEO Nate Lowrie. “The impact of the CopaBall is tremendous in the community,” Lowrie said. “Each year we have a focus. Last year the event benefitted the Arizona Burn Center. In other years it has supported our graduate medical education program and our children’s center.” The theme of the 2016 CopaBall is mental health. According to Lowrie, money raised will benefit youth and young adults in the first-of-its-kind in Arizona First Break Clinic. It will be a specialty treatment center for young people diagnosed with psychosis. “Mental health sometimes lives in the darkness,” Lowrie said. “Left untreated, the cost curve is very expensive. The impact and hardship also take their toll on the family. This program will help

change the outcome of that person’s life through preventative measures and giving them help early. This is the first of these clinics and the foundation is helping in a big way.” Lowrie became involved with the CopaBall when he sat on the board of directors of the foundation for six years. He was named CEO last year and said it was “really fun because it set a record,” raising $525,000. “When we look at things from a nonprofit standpoint, certainly tragedy or hardship are very important to us as a community and as Americans,” Lowrie said. “We’re a culture that likes to step up in times of need. What’s unique about what we’re doing is the overall care and how expansive it is across the Valley.” Each year the CopaBall honors physicians, nurses, MIHS leadership, and those making a significant impact at MIHS. The event is a colorful as it is important, Lowrie says. But it’s not the celebrities and the distinguished guests that make the evening, he said. It’s the people who work on the front lines and are honored for that work that have the biggest impact. “MIHS is a pillar of medical education, research, and care for our people when they are most vulnerable,” says Bart Patterson, Maricopa Health Foundation chairman of the board and CEO of Clear Title Agency of Arizona. “The CopaBall is dear to my heart because of how much it raises in financial support for the women, children and families when they need it most.” Lowrie recalled the 2013 CopaBall.

Nathan Lowrie, CEO, Maricopa Health Foundation; Dr. Michael Grossman, vice president for MIHS’ Academic Affairs (retired); Steve Purves, MIHS, president and CEO; and Rep. Ed Pastor attend the 12th annual CopaBall on Oct. 10, 2015.

Money was being raised for the Arizona Burn Center. He was going through some hardships in his own life. He tells the story best. “That night I’m listening to a patient, who was caught in a fire, and spent almost a year in our burn center. His body was devastated in the fire. He had prosthetic limbs. He talked about going into the burning house and trying to save his family. He suffered the most. “Then the Phoenix Boys Choir got up and sang after him. I thought to myself, ‘What I’m going through is nothing in comparison to what he’s going through.’ It was a special night hearing him tell that story. That’s courage and grit. It gave me a chance to look at myself and say, ‘Yeah,

you’re dealing with some hard stuff, but set it aside.’” Lowrie added that the event makes for a “lovely night. It’s the amazing people I get to share the stage with that makes it special. Unlike other segments of the medical industry that seem very glamorous, we have folks who are in the trenches serving the community. You can’t get any more special than that.” The 13th annual CopaBall, beneﬁting the Maricopa Health Foundation, is 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22, at the Montelucia Resort and Spa, 4949 E. Scottsdale Rd. For more information, visit maricopahealthfoundation.org/events/ copaball-2016

Neighbors

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

Super July: Batman’s Bat Boxes Kids ages 10 and younger visited the Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park to meet Echo, a 4-year-old bat, during Super July: Batman’s Bat Boxes. They found out where he sleeps, what he eats and why bats play an important role in the ecosystem. Participants learned how to build their own bat boxes and were able to take them home.

STSN photos by Kimberly Carrillo

Miller Hanks concentrates on her project.

Nathan Hoskins is anxious to put his bat box together.

Anthony Butler grabs just the right amount of glue.

Howard and Josiah Fitzhugh watch dad, Naylor, help build their box.

Zachary Hoskins shows his superhero spirit in celebration of Chandler Parks and Recreation’s Super July.

Braden Butler hammers his nails himself for his craft.

Paige Anglin shows the kids and parents how to assemble the bat boxes.

Tabitha Butler sets her project together.

Leona Ho glues on the sides of her bat box.

Anthony Butler tells his brother, Braden, that he missed a spot.

Miller Hanks watches his mom hammer a nail into the side of the box.

Tabitha Butler and her brother, Anthony Butler, gather their materials.

Miller Hanks concentrates on her project.

Arts

www.SanTanSun.com

August 6 - 19, 2016

Christian music fills the Valley air this August BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Chicago-bred Christian singer Matthew West is an admitted “huge baseball fan.” For one night, he’ll don an Arizona Diamondbacks jersey for Faith and Family Night when the snakes take on the Cincinnati Reds at 6:40 p.m. Friday, Aug. 26.

“I love combining my two loves of baseball and music,” West said. “I grew up in Chicago so Chicago teams will always have a place in my heart. I live in Nashville and we don’t have a pro baseball team. We’re going to have a blast. Hopefully we’ll get a Diamondbacks win and the crowd will be in good spirits.”

West is among several Christian acts that will be in town in August. Others include Danny Gokey, Thousand Foot Krutch, Bethel Music, Justin Unger, Jason Gray and JJ Heller. “Phoenix has embraced Christian music,” West said. “As Christian artists, we’re really thankful for that. It seems

BETHEL MUSIC Josh Baldwin has just wrapped up gardening around his Redding, California, home. He’s a little tired, and a bit hot, but he’s pleased to talk about Bethel Music’s “worship night” at the Comerica Theatre in Phoenix at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 12. “It brings worship and music and people together,” Baldwin said. The tour features Bethel Music worship favorites and new music from “Have It All,” the multiartist double-disc live recording released March 11 that has garnered wide critical acclaim. He called the show “corporate worship,” which brings together God’s word, prayer and fellowship. “We definitely tell stories and share, but we have some corporate ministry time and personal ministry time,” said Baldwin, who joins fellow singers Brian and Jenn Johnson, Amanda Cook and Cory Asbury in Phoenix. “It’s more like a song and singersongwriter time. It’s really well done.” Baldwin, whose friend is considering starting a church in Arizona, said the Bethel shows are personalized to each city. “We get a feeling for what’s going on in that city and rein in what the Lord’s doing and what that might mean for that night. “It changes each night, which makes it more special for each place. I love knowing what’s going on, but there’s something exciting about doing it this way.” In the days of terrorist attacks, mass shootings and other violent encounters, Baldwin said Bethel Music is a good diversion. “When the world is in crisis, people turn to things like this,” he said. ‘It’s great that people say, ‘Let’s turn to the Lord.’” Bethel Music Night, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 12, Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix. Tickets are $33 for the general admission show. For more information, call 800-745-3000 or visit ticketmaster.com.

THOUSAND FOOT KRUTCH Million-selling Christian rockers Thousand Foot Krutch could play theaters, but on this round of dates, the band is hitting the intimate confines of Club Red in Mesa. “For this headlining ‘Exhale’ tour, we wanted to do something intimate and really fun,” said singer Trevor McNevan. “We wanted to go to rock clubs again and get face to face with everyone. “It’s just such a blessing to play bigger shows, but once, if not twice a year, we have to play club shows. There’s just something about them, man. To get with your rock family, it feels like a different kind of connection. It’s definitely something that’s special to us and we love being a part of that.” Released on June 17, the album “Exhale” is the bookend to a two-part series that started with “Oxygen: Inhale.” “We have our quieter and more aggressive moments on every record,” he said. “We thought that on ‘Inhale’ we’d focus on the quieter side of the band. With ‘Exhale,’ we just dropped the gloves, put pedal to the metal and got more aggressive. It feels great to have ‘Exhale’ out.” He compares a Thousand Foot Krutch show to the feeling of “Exhale.” “Our show is very high octane,” he said. “We’re massive music fans to this day and we love connecting with and through music.” The Canadian band has won or been nominated for several prizes from the Gospel Music Association Canada Covenant, GMA Dove, Juno and Shai awards. McNevan has one person to thank. “Honestly, we give all the glory to God for that, to be honest,” said McNevan, whose band just turned 20 years old. “We feel like we’re just getting started. We still love music the same. It’s such a privilege. “We’re a brotherhood. We’re good people who have a passion for music. Our faith is our lifestyle.” Thousand Foot Krutch with Adelita’s Way, Smashing Satellites, 3 Pill Morning, Interfate and Throw Logic, 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11, Club Red, 1306 W. University Dr., Mesa. Tickets are $23 to $25. For more information, call 480-258-2733 or visit clubredrocks.com.

MATTHEW WEST An established author, singersongwriter and actor, Matthew West has learned to “never to write anything off.” “You never know what kind of opportunities are going to come,” said West, who is close to inking a book deal. “I look back and it’s pretty amazing all of the different things I’ve been able to do. “I’m enjoying life more than I ever have. I hit the stage and I can’t believe that somebody wants me to come and sing for them. I don’t take it for granted that’s for sure.” He called Faith and Family Night a unique chance to play outside of church venues and subsequently attract new fans. West is promoting his 2015 album “Live Forever.” “There are people who will come to the concert who haven’t heard my music before,” said West, 39. “That’s really a cool thing to think about. Playing in a stadium, that’s beautiful as well. I know it’s probably going to be super hot. So we have to get ready to stay hydrated and get in shape for that one show.” West is keeping busy this year. He’s writing a “full book, not just a devotional book or gift book.” He is also preparing for a Christmas album, and a proper new record. The Chase Field show is at the top of his list. “We have an awesome fanbase in Phoenix and Scottsdale,” he said. “There are some great, great people there. We’re looking forward to a special night. I’ll probably have a hot dog or two before the show, too. That’s a good day in my book.” Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Cincinnati Reds, 6:40 p.m. Friday, Aug. 26, Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson, Phoenix. Tickets are $14 to $225. Call 800-745-3000 or visit ticketmaster.com for more information.

OTHER SHOWS

like every time we go, there are tons of people who are so welcoming to us. Anytime I see Phoenix on my schedule, I circle that on my calendar and look forward to it.” We caught up with Bethel Music’s Josh Baldwin, Thousand Foot Krutch singer Trevor McNevan and West.

For information about multiple Valley visits by Justin Unger, Jason Gray and JJ Heller, visit extremefaithproductions.com. For information about Positive Hits Tour with Passion, Danny Gokey, Capital Kings and Hollyn on Saturday, Aug. 20, visit gcuarena.com.

August 6 - 19, 2016

Arts

www.SanTanSun.com

Chandler Children’s Choir slates auditions, seeks members

STAY IMPRESSED We appreciate being a part of your community and we’d like to give back! Call Today About Our Neighborhood Rates Offered This summer!

(480) 203-2121

If you are 7 to 18 years old, live in the East Valley and like to sing, the Chandler Children’s Choir may have a spot for you. The nonprofit community choir is holding auditions Saturday, Aug. 6, for children and teens who want to be part of its ninth season. “If parents have young children who sing around the house or in the car all the time, choir is the best place for them,” said Aimee Stewart, the choir’s

co-founder and artistic director. “In our Junior Choir, they will learn how to use their voices to sing, learn stage presence, and get to perform in venues and concerts around the Valley. It’s amazing how much they learn in those first years of choir.” The choir also is seeking children who are 7-10 years old for its Junior Choir. The free 10-minute auditions are 12:30 SEE

CHOIR PAGE 61

1200 W. Ocotillo Rd., Chandler, AZ 85248

2016 Free Summer Series Presented by:

No tickets required, all shows are FREE. All seating is first come, first served. Suggested Donations: $5/child, $10/adult, $15/family.

US Navy Band Cruisers

Sunday, August 14 · 3pm As the U.S. Navy’s premier contemporary entertainment ensemble, the Cruisers feature eight of the Navy’s most dynamic performers.

Tres Guitarras

Friday, August 19 · 7:30pm Flamenco, Blues and Jazz entwine through the hands and musical voices of three incredible artists.

Cisco & The Racecars Friday, August 26 · 7:30pm A serious and exciting Bluegrass group to see and hear.

Season Opener

Get The Led Out

Sunday, September 25, 2016 · 7pm $22, $28 & $36 Get The Led Out is a group of professional musicians who are passionate about their love of the music of Led Zeppelin. It’s been their mission to bring the studio recordings of “the mighty Zep” to life on the big concert stage. /ChandlerCenterfortheArts

@ChandlerArts

48 0.782 . 26 8 0 Ch a n d l e r Ce nte r.o rg

www.SanTanSun.com

Arts

August 6 - 19, 2016

Cultural foundation adds board members, installs executive committee The Chandler Cultural Foundation, which facilitates programming and funds development for the Chandler Center for the Arts, has installed its executive committee and added three new board members to the 2016-2017. Jeanne Forbis is the newly elected chairwoman for 2016-17 board. Forbis succeeds Richard Fraiser, who is now the foundation’s immediate past chairman. Linda Carol Yarbrough was installed as vice chairwoman, Steena Murray as treasurer and Julia Marreel as secretary. Newly installed board members are Janet Tobias, Marie Fotino and Matt Halle. Directors remaining on the CCF board are Anne DeRose, Barbara Meyerson, David Woodruff, Deborah Hoogestraat, Patti Serrano, Robb Lipsey and Director Emeritus Jerry Brooks. “We are so pleased to have such a strong executive committee in place along with new board members who further strengthen our board’s breadth of talent and background,” said Michelle Mac Lennan, general manager of the Chandler Center for the Arts and president of the Chandler Cultural Foundation. “I’m confident that with the support of these great individuals we will continue to make an important and positive impact on arts development and cultivation of arts programming in our community.” The Chandler Center for the Arts is jointly owned by the city of Chandler and the Chandler Unified School District.

Chandler Cultural Foundation executive committee is Michelle MacLennan, Julia Marreel, Steena Murray, Jeanne Forbis and Linda Carol Yarbrough.

The Chandler Cultural Foundation was contracted in 1989 by the city of Chandler as a means to facilitate programming and fund development for the Chandler Center for the Arts.

As a nonprofit organization, the center relies on a variety of funding sources to help underwrite internationally acclaimed artists, educate young audiences, create important community

programs and maintain its facility. The Chandler Center for the Arts is located at 250 N. Arizona Ave. For more information, visit chandlercenter.org.

MORE THAN A FABRIC STORE!

Designing residential home interiors in the greater metro Phoenix area for over 20 years. By The Yard is open seven days a week with home decorating fabrics in stock and a large library of Fabric and Trims. Our experienced designers custom create your window treatments, upholstery, or bedding through our in-house workroom. By The Yard provides quality craftsmanship and product innovation.

Your interiors can be custom! CALL NOW FOR YOUR COMPLIMENTARY IN-HOME CONSULTATION.

480-831-1800 1761 E. Warner Rd., Ste. A-10, Tempe • www.bytheyard.com

Arts

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

Beloved Ballet Etudes founder dies blood clot Bob Meko, known throughout the Valley as an award-winning and beloved elementary school principal and teacher for 43 years, died Tuesday, July 19, after suffering a pulmonary embolism on Sunday, July 17. Earning a master’s of education degree from Lehigh University, Meko passionately pursued to better the world of education by example. He became Pennsylvania’s youngest principal at 25. After moving to Arizona, Meko took on the role of principal at Jefferson Elementary and then was the founding principal at Mendoza Elementary in Mesa. Under his leadership, Mendoza went on to be designated as an A+ school by the Arizona Department of Education as well as a Blue Ribbon school by the U.S. Department of Education. After receiving the A+ status, Meko then went on to be a judge for

the Arizona Educational Foundation for A+ School Recognition Program. During his tenure, Mendoza received $101,000 in environmental grants and more than $40,000 in grants by businesses/ agencies to create innovative projects. Mendoza was presented with the Valley Forward Award for Excellence, the first time in the award’s history that a school was chosen to be the recipient. In 1986, Meko and his wife, Sharon, founded Ballet Etudes, a nonprofit youth ballet company. From its inception, Meko served as a board member of the company, and was a driving force for its continued growth and stability. In Ballet Etudes’ annual production of “The Nutcracker,” which will be celebrating its 30th anniversary this holiday season, Meko performed as “Mother Ginger” in the production’s second act. Due to Meko’s enthusiasm and antics in the

role, it quickly became an audience favorite for the 25 years he performed as “Mother Ginger.” He also served as the backstage tour host where he gave insight to audience members of the inner-workings of the “magic” that goes on behind the scenes of a ballet. He also served as the chairman for Ballet Etudes’ annual golf fundraiser in which 100% of all raised funds goes directly to Ballet Etudes. An avid baseball fan and third baseman, Meko was a charter season ticket holder of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Along with baseball, his other passion—outside of education and ballet—was fly fishing with his greatestloved trips being to Lees Ferry. Besides his wife of 44 years, Meko is survived by daughters Teague and Kellan. For more information about the ballet company, visit balletetudes.net.

Bob Meko was founder of Ballet Etudes, which performs “The Nutcracker” each holiday season.

Relentless Beats introduces Boo! to Chandler Celebrating all things otherworldly, Boo! is bringing a slew of acts to Rawhide Western Town & Event Center to celebrate Halloween. The costume-encouraged event includes performances by Knife Party, Excision, Snails, NGHTMRE, Ghastly, G Jones and Wuki. BOO! debuted in New York City in 2013, before expanding to San Francisco (2015) and Dallas and Phoenix, (2016). “BOO! is sure to bring out the best and

most creative of our Relentless family- the costumes are going to be over the top,” said Relentless Beats founder Thomas Turner. “It’s amazing to be a part of an event that will be making its mark on four great cities.” General admission tickets are $63. VIP passes, with preferred main stage viewing area, bottle service, restrooms and express entry start at $99. Tickets can be purchased at relentlessbeats.com. BOO! is an 18 and oolderevent.

BOO! is produced by Relentless Beats and Insomniac Events. Rawhide Western Town & Event Center is situated on the Gila River Indian Community and is Arizona’s largest 1880s western-themed entertainment venue. Offering more elevated accommodations, Relentless Beats has hosted several events at Rawhide, including: Global Dance Festival, Decadence, CRUSH and coming Sept. 16 and Sept. 17, Mad Decent Block Party.

Arts

www.SanTanSun.com

Plenty of fun at As You Wish As You Wish, the pottery painting place, has announced the schedule for August classes at its Chandler Studio, located at 2970 E. Germann Rd.,

Chandler. Paints, brushes and expert assistance are provided. Register at asyouwishpottery.com/classes. • Sept. 3: Mommy and Me, Little “Tweet Hearts,” 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Age: toddler/preschoolers and parent. $20. Grandparents Day is Sunday, Sept. 11, and this plate is the perfect gift. The studio will teach kids and their parents how to create this goodie. • Sept. 9: Beginning Technique, Spolvero Thankful Platter, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Age: 12 and older. $12 plus a choice of pottery. Learn how to create an autumn-inspired serving tray using the Spolvero stenciling technique. Stenciling takes away the stress of drawing and turns this class into an easy adult coloring book on pottery. • Sept. 15: Homeschool Social, Owl Mask, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. $15. Homeschoolers will learn techniques like solid background, puffy paint, splatter, detailing and more while creating their own mask. • Sept. 17: Paint with a Princess, 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Paint a princess bank with princesses • Sept. 30: Beginning Technique, Spooky Silhouette Serving Tray. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Ages 12 to adult. $12 plus pottery of choice. Learn how to paint a Halloween scene, using techniques like blending, funwriter, splattering and stripes.

August 6 - 19, 2016

CHOIR FROM PAGE 58 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Arizona Music Academy, 1700 E. Elliot Rd., Tempe. No previous singing experience is necessary. “Auditioning for the CCC was a great experience,” said 13-year-old Ahwatukee resident Molly Harrison, a choir member and freshman at Mountain Pointe High School. “It gave me an opportunity to highlight my singing ability and performance skills. After joining the choir, I have had a great opportunity to make new friends, perform in a lot of different venues, gain exposure, and most importantly, have fun!” The choir’s mission statement stresses its educational focus: “The mission of the Chandler Children’s Choir is to promote highly

artistic, quality music education to young people through creative programming and invigorating instruction.” More than 100 young people from the East Valley belong to the choir, Stewart said. Besides public performances, members also learn about vocal fundamentals, classic repertoire and varied performances. The program includes three choirs— Cantus, Encore and Junior—with weekly rehearsals on Thursdays at Desert Cross Lutheran Church in Tempe. Singers are offered a range of solo and ensemble opportunities, and also take part in a progressive tour program. The season runs from August through May. Information or to book an audition: 480-699-9846, ext. 2 or chandlerchildrenschoir.org.

Classics return to the big screen on Tuesdays at Harkins Theatres Harkins Theatres is presenting Tuesday Night Classics, with special presentations of classic films, 7 p.m. every Tuesday in July for only $5. The films are “Titanic” on Aug. 9; “Friday” on Aug. 15; “Predator” on Aug. 23. The theaters are at Chandler Fashion 20, Gateway Pavilions 18, Harkins Arrowhead Fountains 18, Harkins Camelview 14 at Fashion Square, Queen

Creek 14, Scottsdale 101 14, Superstition Springs 25 and Tempe Marketplace 16 Harkins offers curved wall-towall screens, leather reclining seats, loveseats, in-lobby children’s play areas and an expanded selection of gourmet concessions. For a list of participating theaters, visit www.harkinstheatres.com/TNC.

Bring Chandler up to the Next Level!

SAM HUANG for Chandler City CounCil

Sam Huang stands out because he can • Bridge Different Cultures to Cultivate Unity • Identify New Concerns Before They Become Major Issues • Balance Urban Development & Retain Chandler’s Hometown Spirit Robust Background • Dedicated American Citizen (Born & Raised in Taiwan) • Devoted Family Man (Yes, I Changed Diapers) • Phd In Educational Leadership, SUNY Buffalo • Skilled Educator ° High School Principal ° Education Researcher Military Veteran ° Successful Journalist ° Industrious Entrepreneur

Ensure Chandler is a great city to live, work, and play by promoting: • •

Fiscal Accountability Economic Opportunities

•

Quality of Life

•

Excellent Education

Sam Huang Will: • Propose NO TAX HIKE • Repeal grocery/food tax • Check & balance government expenses • Always finish road construction on time • Establish single-window service information center • Expand Library Services • Attract business investments • Maintain & upgrade city infrastructure • Promote fine arts, cultural, & educational activities • Support Parks/Recreation, Public Safety & Museums

www.samhuang.net samhuang.az@gmail.com

After two decades of rapid growth, Chandler is facing various new challenges. Sam Huang has the vision to lead and passion to serve and make Chandler an even better city. Please vote for Sam Huang so we can bring Chandler up to next level together.

Arts

August 6 - 19, 2016

ON STAGE

Robby Roberson Band, Friday, Aug, 12, SCPA. Influenced by music from John Lennon to Phillip Glass, Robby Roberson’s songwriting and vocals have an urban acoustic flavor. U.S. Navy Band Cruisers, Sunday, Aug. 14, CCA. Eight-piece ensemble plays genres of jazz, classic rock, adult contemporary and rhythm and blues. Tres Guitarras, Friday, Aug. 19, CCA. Flamenco, jazz and blues blend through the hands of guitarists and musical voices of Chris Jácome, flamenco; Bob Fahey, blues, and Stan Sorenson, jazz. Jay Allan & The Uncommon Good, Friday, Aug. 19, SCPA. Jay Allan’s funkyfolk, blues rock combines heartfelt and memorable lyrics with genre-bending styles and melodies. U.S. Navy Band Cruisers, Sunday, Aug. 14, CCA. This contemporary entertainment ensemble features eight of the Navy’s most dynamic performers. Cisco and the Racecars, Friday, Aug. 26, CCA. This bluegrass band features a full range of instruments, including banjo, guitar, mandolin, bass, fiddle and cello. Inspiración Flamenca, Friday, Aug. 26, SCPA. Dancer Julia Chacon provides an authentic, powerful flamenco experience with beautiful costumes, fiery footwork, intricate guitar and soul-stirring vocals. Colvin & Earle, Saturday, Sept. 3, SCPA. Longtime friends and admirers Shawn

Colvin and Steve Earle have united to record their self-titled debut, a true standout in careers already filled with pinnacles and masterpieces. An Evening with Pat Metheny, Friday, Sept. 16, SCPA. Metheny has won countless polls as “Best Jazz Guitarist” and awards, including three gold records and 20 Grammy Awards in 12 categories. Joining him onstage will be Malaysian-Australian bassist Linda Oh, British pianist Gwilym Simcock and his longtime drummer Antonio Sanchez. Squeeze, Wednesday, Sept. 21, SCPA. Friends Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook formed the band in 1973 that, more than four decades later, still tours and reminds fans why they left such an indelible impression on the U.K.’s music scene. Seventh Annual Brazilian Day Festival, Saturday, Sept. 24, SCPA. The Valley’s largest and most authentic Brazilian Independence Day celebration, Brazilian Day Arizona features an exciting lineup of live Brazilian entertainment, including performances by Grupo Cupim do Samba, BatalaLA, Axe Capoeira, Axe Folclorico and more. Mary Chapin Carpenter, Sunday, Sept. 25, SCPA. Five-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee performs timeless hits from her expansive 14-album catalog and new songs. Bernadette Peters, Saturday, Oct. 15, MAC. The three-time Tony Award winner who can be seen in the second season of the Golden Globe Award-winning series “Mozart in the Jungle,” will perform signature songs from

www.SanTanSun.com

the multitude of iconic shows in which she has starred.

Country music Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw and Collin Raye.

Angela Cheng and Alvin Chow, Friday, Nov. 18, GCAC. This husband-and-wife concert pianist duo plays compositions for one-hand, two hands and then fourhand compositions, showing the physical intricacies of two performers sharing the same instrument and creating tonal colors across the entire keyboard.

Neil Sedaka with The Phoenix Symphony, Friday, Feb 3, MAC. His impressive 50-year career ranges from being one of the first teen pop sensations of the 50s, a songwriter for himself and other artists in the 60s, and a superstar in the 70s.

John Cleese and Eric Idle, Monday, Nov. 21, MAC. The founding members of Monty Python pioneered an irreverent, absurdist sensibility that is emulated by comics around the world. As individuals, they have written, performed and produced critically acclaimed shows such as “Spamalot,” “A Fish Called Wanda,” “Fawlty Towers” and “The Rutles.”

Glenn Miller Orchestra, Sunday, Feb. 26, CCA. With its unique jazz sound, the resilient orchestra was formed in 1956 and has been touring consistently since, playing an average of 300 live dates a year all around the world.

ON STAGE VENUE INDEX

Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox, Sunday, Nov. 27, MAC. A genre-busting, rotating collective of musicians and vocalists who reimagine modern pop hits in the style of jazz, ragtime and swing classics of the 1920s to 1950s.

CCA—Chandler Center for the Arts 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler Tickets: 480-782-2680, chandlercenter.org

Chandler Symphony with Jim Curry, Saturday, Dec. 10, HCPA. Curry opens the show performing his John Denver holiday tribute followed by 18-time Emmy nominee Lee Holdridge conducting the symphony.

HCPA—Higley Center for the Performing Arts 4132 E. Pecos Rd., Gilbert Tickets: 480-279-7194, higleycenter.org

Straight No Chaser, Saturday, Dec. 31, MAC. Formed years ago while students at Indiana University, the group has reemerged as a phenomenon with a massive fan base, more than 20 million YouTube views and numerous national TV appearances. Roots & Boots Tour, Friday, Jan. 27, CCA.

GCAC—Gold Canyon Arts Council 6410 Kings Ranch Rd., Gold Canyon Tickets: 480-983-2171, gcac1.com

MAC—Mesa Arts Center One E. Main St., Mesa Tickets: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter.com SCPA—Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale Tickets: 480-499-8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org

MEN’S & WOMEN’S COMFORT SHOES, COME SEE THE NEW SPRING & SUMMER STYLES!

$20 Off pean Comfort and Style Euro

We are a family owned-business that specializes in Euro-comfort shoes with a flair for fashion. Most assume that comfort can’t be cute, but that’s just not the case! Come visit our new unique comfort boutique so you can understand why, “Nothing is as thrilling as a shoe that looks and feels good!”

see you soon!

480- 275-2898 • 11 W. Boston Street, #2

On Any One Item Over $50

Select items only. One coupon per visit, per customer. Expires 8-18-2016

Keen, Dansko, Josef Seibel, Olukai, Romika, Fly London, Birkenstock, Merrell, Antelope, Reiker, Miz Mooz, Clarks, Klog, Arcopedico, Alegria, Baggallini, Taos, Gabor, Ahnu and Big Buddha. Taos, Gabor, Ahnu and Big Buddha.

• Historic Downtown Chandler

Arts

www.SanTanSun.com

August 6 - 19, 2016

Art Garfunkel, War featured in Chandler Center’s new season The Chandler Center for the Arts will celebrate its 27th season with performances ranging from comedic and family-friendly, to immersive and instrumental. “The extraordinary multicultural and multidisciplinary performances of this year’s lineup deliver the artistic merit that Chandler Center for the Arts is known for,” said Michelle Mac Lennan, general manager of the Chandler Center for the Arts. Tickets are on sale by visiting chandlercenter.org. Here is the lineup:

7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18: War, $38-$68. Everyone has heard “Low Rider,” but there are plenty of hits to accompany that one. Come to the CCA to hear tracks like “The World is a Ghetto,” “Me and My Baby Brother” and “Why Can’t We Be Friends?” 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 26: The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra, $30-$40. This show features more than 40 hit songs from four decades of jukebox chart toppers. “Tuxedo Junction,” “In The Mood,” “Pennsylvania 6-5000,” “Chattanooga Choo Choo” and “Moonlight Serenad.” 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 11: Art Garfunkel: In Close-Up, $54-$84. A Grammy Award winner, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honoree, Golden Globe-nominated singer and actor, Art Garfunkel will play solo hits, Simon and Garfunkel songs and cuts from his favorite songwriters.

Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood: Two Man Group

Concerts

7:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 25: Get the Led Out-American Led Zeppelin; $22$36. The tribute act Get the Led Out focuses on Led Zeppelin’s early years, touching on the deeper cuts that were seldom, if ever heard in concert. 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16: Christmas with Clay Aiken; $52-$72 Former “American Idol” contestant Clay Aiken will perform holiday classics accompanied by a 22-piece orchestra. 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22: The King: The Music of Elvis, $46-$58. The group celebrates the music of The King with a 12-piece orchestra. These aren’t Elvis impersonators, but four Broadway and cabaret singers who bring a new twist, shake, rattle and roll to the classic hits. 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27: Roots and Boots featuring Pam Tillis, Sammy Kershaw and Collin Ray, $44-$64. Three country legends come together for an evening of hits.

7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 18: The Doo Wop Project, $28-$42. Featuring current and former stars of Broadway’s smash hits “Jersey Boys” and “Motown: The Musical,” The Doo Wop Project brings unparalleled authenticity of sound and vocal excellence to recreate some of the greatest music in U.S. pop and rock history.

Art Garfunkel

3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 12: Rhythm of the Dance-The National Dance Company of Ireland $34-$44. This two-hour dance and music extravaganza contains a wealth of Irish talent.

7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17, California Guitar Trio & Montreal Guitar Trio; $22-$32. When the ensembles join forces, they perform some of the greatest rock classics from Queen and The Beatles, as well as spaghetti western themes.

6 p.m. Sunday, March 5: Golden Dragon Acrobats; $32-$46. The performers of Golden Dragon Acrobats mix award-winning acrobatics, traditional dance and spectacular costumes to present a show of breathtaking skill and spellbinding beauty.

3 p.m. Friday, March 19, Piano Battle; $28-$44. The Piano Battle sees the duo go head-to-head on stage, charming and enchanting the audience with a variety of classical pieces.

7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 25: Stormy Weather: The Story of Lena Horne Starring Mary Wilson, $32-$48. The Supremes’ Mary Wilson shows her pop-jazz prowess as she sings Horne’s trademark songs, including “Stormy Weather,” “The Lady is a Tramp” and “Honeysuckle Rose.”

Family events

11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 10: The SnowCat by Dmitri Matheny, $8-$10. A musical production, The SnowCat is the heartwarming holiday tale of a little girl’s search for her wandering white cat on a chilly afternoon and the life lessons she learns on the spirit of sharing and gratitude that makes the holidays such a magical time. Various times Tuesday, Dec. 27, to Sunday, Jan. 8: Zoppé, An Italian Family Circus; $15-$40. Zoppé welcomes guests into its intimate 500seat tent for a one-ring circus that honors the history of the Old-World Italian tradition.

Instrumental events

7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19: New York Gypsy All Stars; $28-$36. Led by classically trained Macedonian clarinet wonder Ismail Lumanovski, the group never loses its sharp musical focus, astounding chops and true spirit of their Gypsy namesakes. 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28, Drumline Live: $38-$46. This show-stopping attraction, created by the team behind the hit movie and TV series “Drumline,” brings the Historically Black College and University marching band tradition to the theatrical stage. Clay Aiken

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

Arts

August 6 - 19, 2016

7:30 p.m. Friday, March 24, Hypnotic Brass Ensemble; $24-$32. Hypnotic Brass Ensemble is a Chicago-based brass ensemble consisting of seven sons of the jazz trumpeter Phil Cohran. Its musical style ranges from hip-hop to jazz to funk and rock, including calypso and gypsy music.

www.SanTanSun.com

7:30 p.m. Friday, March 3, Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood: Two Man Group; $46-$66. Known by TV audiences for their work on “Whose Line is it Anyway?,” Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood improve each night from audience suggestions and participation.

7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 8, Recycled Percussion; $22-$32. Since Justin Spencer formed Recycled Percussion in 1995, the band has been featured on the cover of USA Today as well as on “Carson Daly,” The Today Show” and the Latin Grammy Awards.

California Guitar Trio & Montreal Guitar Trio

Theatrical events

Various times, Friday, Oct. 28, and Saturday, Oct. 29, “Julie Madly Deeply;” $36-$42. Award-winning London singer and actress Sarah-Louise Young will share Julie Andrews’ music as well as stories and anecdotes about the legend’s life. 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, “Letters Home;” $26-$34. “Letters Home” puts the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq front and center by bringing to life actual letters written by soldiers serving in the Middle East. 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, “Pump Boys and Dinettes;” $44-$64. “Pump Boys and Dinettes” is packed with toe-tappers such as “Drinkin’ Shoes,” “Farmer Tan” and “The Night Dolly Parton Was Almost Mine!”

Golden Dragon Acrobats

COMPASSIONATE COMPREHENSIVE CARE • FULL SERVICE HOSPITAL STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY • DERMATOLOGY & SPA SERVICES

We would like to welcome Dr Gabriela Durig to our team!

Gabriela Durig, DVM Associate Veterinarian

We look forward to having her join us in August to help care for your beloved pets! Call today to schedule your appointment.

“Our mission is to provide the best hospital experience to our clients and patients via a clean, relaxed environment with knowledgeable and courteous staff. We will continue to evolve to provide the best veterinary medicine, the latest in advance technology and client education.” PREVENTIVE WELLNESS SPAY/NEUTER DENTISTRY DIAGNOSTICS SOFT TISSUE SURGERY K-LASER THERAPY

Andrea Stickland, DVM

Owner/Operator of AMCofC

Carolyn Duregger, DVM

AND MORE.

Associate Veterinarian

270 W. CHANDLER HEIGHTS RD., STE. 3 CHANDLER, AZ 85248 | 480-339-0406 myvet@amcofc.com | www.AMCofC.com HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY-FRIDAY 8am-5:30pm • SATURDAY 8am-12pm

3 p.m. Sunday, March 12, Frank Ferrante in “An Evening with Groucho;” $26-$38. Award-winning actor/director/playwright Frank Ferrante recreates his acclaimed portrayal of legendary comedian Groucho Marx in this fast-paced 90 minutes of hilarity.

Spirituality

www.SanTanSun.com

August 6 - 19, 2016

A new sound of music at Sun Lakes United Church of Christ Two talented musicians will lead and accompany the Sun Lakes United Church of Christ music ministries beginning in September. Director of music Julie Neish and musician/accompanist Titus Kautz come with formal music education credentials as well as broad experience to meet the needs of a church that draws worshipers of varied beliefs. Many residents of Sun Lakes are familiar with Neish, as she is the accompanist for the Sun Lakes Chorale. She is a doctoral candidate in choral conducting at ASU where she directs the women’s and men’s choruses. Previously, Neish was professor of music and music coordinator at Northland Pioneer College in northern Arizona. There, she conducted the Northland Master Chorale and founded and directed a jazz swing band, a vocal jazz ensemble and an award-winning musical theater program. She also has experience as ensemble director at George Mason University

in Washington, D.C., and traveled to Italy with the National Philharmonic Chorale as their assistant director and accompanist. Her conducting skills led to invitations in 2013 for conducting and teaching roles at the Universidad Veracruzana in Mexico City, and Sarteano, Italy. Kautz, in his application for church musician, reported that he worked with a number of churches in different roles. Since 2008, Kautz has served six churches representing three denominations, offering different forms of worship. His participation in these churches ranged from church musician to vocalist. In addition to his church affiliations, Kautz has served in many capacities as director and accompanist for pit orchestras in productions of Broadway favorites, and as accompanist for college and community playhouse productions. He has won awards and recognition for his singing capabilities in choral and in theater productions.

Unstoppable gospel BY DR. MARC DRAKE, SENIOR PASTOR, FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, SUN LAKES

Russian leader Vladimir Putin thinks he can stop the gospel. Perhaps you’ve read of his action to sign into law measures that severely restrict religious freedom and criminalize missionary activities. Like so many others before him, he is attempting the impossible! How successful were Nero, Diocletian, Lenin, Stalin, Hitler, Mao and many others before Putin? They all failed! And that’s because the gospel is from God, about God, and for the glory of God. It will not be stopped as long as breathing believers roam the earth proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit! As writer Os Guinness asserts, “When the gospel is lived out in practice, it is the most powerful force in history, both for individuals and for entire societies.” Consider this: The year was 1673. The chief magistrate of Bedford, England, had

Center, preschool celebrating anniversary with barbecue The Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life and the Chandler Jewish Preschool will celebrate its third anniversary with a community barbecue from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 21. Learn about the center’s unique approach to children and early childhood education, the unique community, the programs for teens and kids: Chandler Jewish Preschool, Chabad Hebrew School, Youth zone, Adult Education, Jewish Women’s Circle,

Young Jewish Professionals, and holiday awareness programs. The community barbecue/open house will provide a forum for parents to ask questions about the various programs, to meet the dedicated teachers and experience the educational environment. The center is located at 875 N. McClintock Dr. Reservations are required by calling 480-855-4333 or by visiting chabadcenter.com.

Spiritual Reflections

grown quite weary of John Bunyan and his constant preaching of the gospel. Bunyan was reaching thousands of people, and because the magistrate hated the truth of the gospel, he had Bunyan jailed. The magistrate then said, “At last we are done with this tinker and his cause. Never more will he plague us: for his name, locked away as surely as he, shall be forgotten, as surely as he. Done we are, and all eternity with him.” History has proven that a more foolish statement has never been spoken! While in prison, Bunyan wrote “The Pilgrim’s Progress”—a book that has been used for centuries to lead people to Christ and has been more widely read than any other except the Bible. The Bedford chief magistrate thought he could stop the gospel, but by having John Bunyan thrown in jail, he actually ended up spreading the good news of Christ further than even Bunyan would have imagined!

Send us Your Spiritual Reflections

Russia’s Putin and others like him, just don’t get it. They would do well to read Philippians 1:12-14 where the apostle Paul spoke of his own imprisonment: “I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much bolder to speak the word without fear.” Here in the 21st century, as we encounter growing opposition and witness religious liberties being threatened, it is so important that believers cherish the gospel all the more and share it with love and boldness. Let’s also pray for Christians in Russia that God will strengthen them in their faith and give them courage to continue sharing it. Our God reigns! His gospel is unstoppable!

The spiritual leaders of SanTan Sun-area churches, temples, mosques and other religious and spiritual gathering places are invited to contribute their Spiritual Reflections in essay format by sending their thoughts, enlightening insights and other writings of a spiritual nature to news@santansun.com. Be certain to put “Spiritual Reflections submission” in the subject

Dr. Marc Drake, First Baptist Senior Pastor.

line, and keep your articles around 200-300 words, or they may be edited for length. Include your first and last name, title and facility name, address, phone number and website. Spiritual Reflections are printed on a space-available basis, and submission does not guarantee print. The opinions represented in this column are those of the author and not that of the SanTan Sun News.

Spirituality

August 6 - 19, 2016

www.SanTanSun.com

SPIRITUAL CONNECTIONS

Call ahead to confirm information, as details occasionally change after print. If you have a recurring monthly support group or meeting you would like listed in Spiritual Connections, email complete details to news@santansun.com. SUNDAYS Celebration Service 10:30 a.m. Sundays All with peaceful beliefs are welcome to this inclusive, loving, thriving UNITY Community. Join the group at 10 a.m., proceeding the service, for fellowship. Youth and toddlers meet during service. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798, www.interfaith-community.org Kids’ Sunday School 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Sundays Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800 Lift Your Spirit 10 a.m. Sundays Hear inspirational messages and music. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800 St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church 7:30 a.m. daybreak contemplative worship 9 a.m. traditional worship and choral music 11 a.m. contemporary worship with live Christian rock band There is also a service at 12 p.m. Wednesdays. St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 901 W. Erie St., Chandler. Info: (480) 899-7386, www.saintmatthewschurch.org. MONDAYS The Art of Parenting 7:30 p.m. Mondays Six-session course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute and presented by Rabbi Mendy Deitsch of Chabad of the East Valley, designed to help parents at all levels of Jewish knowledge develop their own parenting philosophies and techniques. Cost is $99. Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Dr., Chandler. Info: (480) 855-4333, rabbi@chabadcenter.com TUESDAYS

Silva Class and Meditation 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays Learn the Silva method with Lois Britland. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd, Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800. Career Connectors 8:30 a.m. to noon, fourth Tuesday of month Nonprofit organization connecting professionals in career transition to highquality resources and hiring companies; each event includes professional career speakers with presentations on relevant job search topics, three to four hiring companies, networking, resume help, career coaches, LinkedIn coaches and business portraits. Central Christian Church, Gilbert Campus/Student Center, 965 E. Germann Rd., Gilbert. Info: www.careerconnectors.org, (480) 442-5806 Christian Business Networking, Tri-City Chapter—Chandler, Tempe, Mesa 7:15 a.m. Tuesdays Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals. Crackers and Co. Café, 535 W. Iron Ave., Mesa. Info: Maia, (480) 425-0624, www.christianbusinessnetworking.com Christian Business Networking, Chandler Bi-Monthly Chapter 7:45 a.m. second and fourth Tuesdays each month Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals. Chandler Christian Church, Building B, Room 202, 1825 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler. Info: Maia, (480) 425-0624, www.christianbusinessnetworking.com HOPE—Help Overcoming Painful Experiences 7 p.m. Tuesdays Free weekly small group sessions helping people overcome emotional pain caused by divorce, grief, addictions and more; free child care for children ages 10 and younger. Desert Springs Church, 19620 S. McQueen Rd., Room 106, Chandler. Info: hope4all@ comcast.net, www.helpovercomingpainfulexperiences.org

Weekend Masses Sat Sun

4:30 pm English 6:45 am English 8:00 am Español ** 9:00 am English-St. Juan Diego 9:30 am English 11:00 am English 230 West Galveston Street, Chandler, AZ 85225 12:30 pm Español (Between Arizona Ave. & Alma School Rd.) 5:00 pm Teen/Young Adult Daily Masses: Mon-Fri 6:30am • Mon-Sat 8:15am 6:30 pm Español Tues (English) & Wed (Español) 6:30pm ** St. Juan Diego Church at Navarrete School Confession: Sat 3-4pm (or by appointment) Tues & Wed 5:30pm 6490 South Sun Groves Blvd. (Riggs Road & Lindsay)

WEDNESDAY: Bible Study 12 Noon & 7 p.m. SUNDAY: WORSHIP 10 a.m. 19609 S. McQueen Rd. • Chandler, AZ 480-899-LIFE (5433) • 480-343-0022 www.gospel4life.org

Shalom Chapter of Hadassah 11:30 a.m. second Tuesday of each month Iron Oaks (Oakwood) Clubhouse, 24218 S. Oakwood Blvd., Sun Lakes. Info: Cyril, (480) 802-0243; Kathy, (480) 895-5194; Shirley, (480) 883-9159; or Joyce, (480) 802-4902. Monthly Women’s Fellowship 6:15 p.m. fourth Tuesday of each month The monthly fellowship Bible study with the East Valley Chapter of Christian Women’s Devotional Alliance “ministers to women’s spiritual, emotional and physical needs.” Best Western-Mezona 250 W. Main St., Mesa. Info: (480) 232-3773 Narcotics Anonymous (Nar-Anon)— Chandler Chapter 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays Twelve-step program for families and friends of addicts. Faith Community Church, 1125 N. Dobson Rd., Chandler. Info: www.nar-anon.org WEDNESDAYS Panic Healing 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Wednesday Receive a 15-minute energetic tune-up. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800. Gong Meditation and Yoga Nidra 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. third Wednesday Presented by Will Zecco, gong master. Bring yoga mat, blanket and pillow as desired. Love offerings will be accepted. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798 or www.interfaith-community.org. “A Course in Miracles” with the Rev. Julianne Lewis 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. Wednesdays The weekly group is an interactive time of learning and sharing, appropriate for course beginners, as well as long-time students of ACIM. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798, www.interfaith-community.org

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

The Art of Parenting 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays Six-session course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute and presented by Rabbi Mendy Deitsch of Chabad of the East Valley, designed to help parents at all levels of Jewish knowledge develop their own parenting philosophies and techniques. Cost is $99. Chandler Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler. Info: (480) 855-4333 or rabbi@chabadcenter.com Grief Care 6:45 p.m. Wednesdays A place to come share your feelings or just listen to others as we try to navigate through our grief. You don’t have to do it alone. Epiphany Lutheran Church, South Campus, old church building, 800 W. Ray Rd., Room 325, Chandler. Info: griefcareaz@ gmail.com Healing Prayer and Meditation Circle 7 to 8:15 p.m. Wednesdays Guided prayer, affirmations and visualization for those facing physical, emotional, mental or spiritual issues in their lives. Love offering requested. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800 Meditation Moments 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. third Wednesday of the month An interactive time of learning and sharing, appropriate for course beginners, as well as long time students of ACIM. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 5938798 or www.interfaith-community.org St. Mathew’s Episcopal Church 12 p.m. Healing and Eucharist service St. Mathew’s Episcopal Church, 901 W. Erie St., Chandler. Info: (480) 899-7386, www.saintmatthewschurch.org. THURSDAYS Women’s Empowerment & Awakening 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. third Thursday Release negative beliefs. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800.

PRIMERA IGLESIA BAUTISTA CHANDLER

"Aqui Hay Lugar Para Ti" Los invita a ser participes en estudios biblicos Todos los Miercoles a las 6:30 P.M.

Bible Study: 8:30 am | Worship: 10:00 am Wednesday: Prayer & Bible Study: 6:30 pm

3405 S. Arizona Ave. I QUEEN CREEK RD.

� r-·1 N

"'-

OCOTILLO RD.

�

SAN TAN FREEWAY (202)

480-895-1088 www.fbcsl.org Sundays:

Servicio en Espanol Todos los Domingos 12 Noon

APPLEBY RD.

�

lnformes: Hernando Cardenas 480-243-9690 Oficina 480-963-3439

Spirituality www.interfaith-community.org; heatherposey70@gmail.com.

A Course in Miracles 7 p.m. first, second and fourth Thursday Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800.

Spirit Night – A Holistic Healing Festival 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. third Saturday of the month Lightworkers offer a wide range of services including Reiki, facials, mediums, drumming, tarot, angel messages and more. Services range from $20 to $30. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: www.interfaith-community.org or heatherposey70@gmail.com

Empower Model for Men 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays The three-class series is taught by author Scott E. Clark and designed to offer practical wisdom and tools to help men shift into their higher consciousness, based on the seven-step empower model detailed in Clark’s book, “Empower Model for Men.” Cost is $85. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800

Unity Drumming and Healing Circle 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. fourth Saturday of each month Beginner, expert drummers and observers welcome. Bring snack, appetizer or dessert to share. Love donation accepted. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798, www.interfaith-community.org.

Real Love Support Group 6:30 p.m. Thursdays For those who have a desire to acquire more “real love” and in the process find great personal happiness and more fulfilling relationships. Love offering requested. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800

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. Info: Lisa (602) 377-8847, marriage@lisacmyers.com, www.forevermarriageministries.com, www.facebook.com/forevermarriages.

FRIDAYS Temple Havurat Emet 7:30 p.m. first Friday of each month Lecky Center, Robson Library. 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. Info: www.templehavuratemet.org

Grief 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. every Friday Jewish Women International, Avodah Each session presents a 45-minute Chapter 1581 videotape of expertise of counselors, Monthly luncheon. Social Box Eateries, 1371 pastors and others who have coped N. Alma School Rd., Chandler. RSVP: (480) 802-9304, (480) 655-8812 with grief and understand its effects and the steps toward healing. Each week a Moms in Prayer International different stand-alone topic is presented A group of mothers who meet one hour as part of 13 sessions. Discussion follows, each week to intercede for their children but participation is entirely voluntary. 480-963-3439 480-963-3439  www.fbc.net www.fbc.net and schools through prayer. Info: Call (480) 895-1088 for information. The Liane Wright, (480) 699-7887, program is offered at First Baptist Church Sunday SundaySchedule Schedule www.momsinprayer.org. Sun Lakes.

First FirstBaptist Baptist Church, Church,Chandler Chandler

Worship Worship--9:00 9:00a.m. a.m.//10:30 10:30a.m. a.m. Bible Study Sunday SundaySchool School--9:00 9:00a.m. a.m.//10:30 10:30a.m. a.m. Meets twice a month Spanish SpanishWorship Worship 12Noon Noon Members of the Women’s Life Group Spirit Night—Psychic Fair --12 study the Bible and discuss how 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. third Saturday of each Wednesday Activities Wednesday Activities the lessons can relate to their lives. month 3405S. S. Arizona Arizona Ave. Ave. Activities Activitieswill will resume resume in inAugust August 3405 S. Arizona Ave. Sun Lakes 3405 United Church of Christ, The “Lightworkers” offer a wide range of SATURDAYS

ARIZONA ARIZONA

Chandler. Info: Jan Olson at (480) 802services including Reiki, facials, mediums, 7457 or SAN drumming, tarot, angel messages and SANTAN TANFREEWAY FREEWAY(202) (202) more. Services range from $20 to $30. Cash Joy King (480) 588-1882. QUEEN QUEENCREEK CREEKRD. RD. only. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual facebook.com/ facebook.com/FirstBaptistChandler FirstBaptistChandler APPLEBY East Valley Jewish Couples Club APPLEBY Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., OCOTILLO OCOTILLORD. RD. Offers once-a-month social activities Suite 102, Mesa. Info:

Open hearts. Open minds. Open doors.

Chandler United Methodist Church

Celebrating more than 100 Years in Chandler. Making and Deploying Disciples Who Put God First, Since 1913.

SUNDAY WORSHIP

Traditional Worship 8:30 a.m. & 10:00 a.m.

SUNDAY SCHOOL

For Children 8:40 a.m. & 10:10 a.m.

480-963-3360

ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL 8:30 a.m.

www.chandlermethodist.org | 450 E. Chandler Heights Rd.

August 6 - 19, 2016

such as dining, movies and plays for Jewish couples in the 45- to 65-year-old age range. Info: Melissa, (480) 785-0744, beadlover@cox.net Let the SanTan Sun News help you publicize your church or temple’s events and activities 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 FirstBaptist Baptist Church, Church,Chandler Chandler 480-963-3439 480-963-3439  www.fbc.net www.fbc.net Sunday SundaySchedule Schedule Worship Worship--9:00 9:00a.m. a.m.//10:30 10:30a.m. a.m. Sunday SundaySchool School--9:00 9:00a.m. a.m.//10:30 10:30a.m. a.m. Spanish SpanishWorship Worship--12 12Noon Noon Wednesday WednesdayActivities Activities Activities Activitieswill willresume resumein inAugust August

3405 3405S. S. Arizona ArizonaAve. Ave. 3405 S. Arizona Ave. SAN SANTAN TANFREEWAY FREEWAY(202) (202)

facebook.com/ facebook.com/FirstBaptistChandler FirstBaptistChandler

QUEEN QUEENCREEK CREEKRD. RD. OCOTILLO OCOTILLORD. RD.

ARIZONA ARIZONA

www.SanTanSun.com

APPLEBY APPLEBY