SanTan Sun: 5-2-15; Neighbors

Neighbors

Life with hearing loss poses variety of challenges

BY ALISON STANTON

For Larry Serpa, the hardest part about having a hearing loss is not keeping his new digital hearing aids dry or having to ask for a special closed-captioned device at movie theaters so he can follow the dialogue.

It’s the unnerving feeling that he’s always a microsecond behind hearing and processing what someone has said.

“With a hearing loss, it’s not just hearing that is a challenge but processing it too, so I always feel like I’m a bit behind,” said Serpa, a Chandler resident.

“It can be very distracting to always think, ‘Did they just say this or that?’ and you often hear things that are not said, and miss things that are.”

specialist with the Arizona Commission for the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing, said that Serpa is one of around 1.1 million people in Arizona who have some type of hearing loss.

In honor of May being Better Hearing and Speech Month, Michaels said the organization is on a statewide campaign to encourage everyone to get their hearing tested.

Serpa has a highend hearing loss that was caused by exposure to too much loud noise, including music and hunting, as well as ear infections as a child. He estimates he has about a 30- to 40-percent loss, and has worn hearing aids in both ears for the past 10 years.

Michele Michaels, hard of hearing

Michaels said the No. 1 cause of hearing loss is noise.

“Our environment is much noisier now than it was in the olden days,” she said, adding that the popularity of ear buds, which direct sounds right next to the ear drum, can also cause damage over time.

In many cases, Michaels said, a person who has a hearing loss might not realize there is a problem. Oftentimes, a spouse, friend or co-worker will notice that something is amiss.

“People who have a hearing loss may complain that other people are mumbling, or that they cannot hear talking from another room, or that they cannot hear their grandkids’ little voices,” she said. These, she said, are definite signs that

Pick Your Ride to help charities

BY KEN ABRAMCZYK

Organizers of fundraisers often pick one—and only one—mode of transportation used by the events’ participants in the quest to raise donations and pledges for notable causes or charities.

Fundraisers run the gamut, as organizers might schedule a 30-mile trek on a bicycle, or a short motorcycle ride followed by a motorcycle show to view these fine pieces of machinery.

Riders can use either of these twowheeled methods, or a car, truck or even a Segway personal motorized scooter on the Club 480 Pick Your Ride event on Saturday, May 9. Registration is scheduled at 9:30

a.m. The ride begins at 10 a.m. Participants will ride to help the Chandler Firefighters Charities. Registration is $15. Shirts will be sold for $15 at 480 Neighborhood Bar to support the charities.

The ride starts at Hungry Monk, 1760 W. Chandler Blvd., then riders proceed to The Perch Pub & Brewery, 232 S. Wall St.; the William B. Pate VFW Post 7401, 751 S. Arizona Ave.; Bourbon Jacks, 11 W. Boston St., and 480 Neighborhood Bar (also referred to as Club 480), 480 N. Arizona Ave. Participants will receive a card at each of the five stops to create a poker hand.

“Whoever has the best hand wins $50, the holder of the worst hand wins $15,”

Stone & Vine brings Italian comfort food to Chandler

BY KEN ABRAMCZYK

Joe Popo remembers growing up in the Chicago area in a household with Italian parents.

Sunday staples were lasagna or spaghetti and meatballs, the comfort foods of home.

“The food accompanied the family gatherings,” Popo said. “You felt comfortable with the food of those occasions.”

Popo captured some of those homey, comfortable feelings he experienced growing up at his Stone & Vine Urban Italian, a 5,000-square-foot eatery on the southwest corner of Queen Creek and Alma School roads. The Chandler location opened on March 2; the first Stone & Vine opened in Scottsdale in May 2011. The restaurants are two of four in the JGP Restaurant Concepts group, which also

includes Black & Bleu and Salt & Lime, both in Scottsdale.

Popo came up with the name from pizza and wine, represented by a pizza stone and grape vines.

“I came from a larger restaurant and wanted something a little more comfortable and more homey,” Popo said. “I wanted customers feel like they were coming to a dinner party. I also wanted to price it so it was affordable.”

With a menu that ranges in price of entrees and pasta dishes for $12 to $18 and a lunch menu with a choice of one of eight items for $8, a couple can dine for about $50 to $60 with two glasses of wine and two entrees and/or pasta dishes. Employees from nearby businesses can grab a quick bite at lunch for under $10.

Enjoy Mother’s Day with this host of specials

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

Treat your mother to an afternoon out at one of the many nearby restaurants that are offering specials this year.

Free cakes offered this Mother’s Day at Chompie’s Chompie’s, Arizona’s New York Deli, is making Mother’s Day extra sweet this year by offering a free slice of strawberry white chocolate layer cake, valued at $6.95 for moms from 11 a.m. to close Sunday, May 10. The special is for dine-in only. Chompie’s is a family-owned and operated business. For more information, visit www.chompies.com.

UltraStar buffet runs the gamut Join UltraStar in Maricopa for an allyou-can-eat Mother’s Day brunch. Food includes smoked salmon, carved roast beef with creamed horseradish and au jus, fresh homemade waffles with berries and fresh whipped cream, scrambled eggs with fresh mozzarella cheese and chives, Maplewood-smoked bacon and sausage, biscuits and gravy, imported and domestic cheeses, fresh fruit, and an array of cakes and pies. Prices start at $29 for adults, $16 for children, and free for kids 5 and younger. The multi-tainment center is located at 16000 N. Maricopa Rd., Maricopa. For more information, visit www.ultrastarakchin.com/ mothers-day-brunch.

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it’s time for a hearing test. However, before making an appointment with an audiologist, Michaels said people should go see their primary care physician.

“The PCP can look in the person’s ears and might say, ‘Oh, you have wax blocking your ear canal or you have an irritated or perforated ear drum.’ Or, the PCP might say, ‘Everything is OK and there are no problems, so let’s refer you to someone.’”

Michaels, who was diagnosed in her early 30s with a bilateral and progressive hearing loss, said that the best way for most people to preserve their hearing is to use ear plugs when they are around noise.

“When they are mowing the lawn or using a leaf blower or riding a motorcycle or ATV they should wear ear plugs, and if women dry their hair every morning they should keep the dryer on low and keep it far away from their ears,” she said.

Serpa said he is bothered by the constant barrage of noise that people are exposed to on a daily basis. He knows from experience how damaging it can be to hearing.

“I really want to protect the hearing that I have left, and if you pay attention, everywhere we go we are overstimulated. Even at the Suns game when the players are on a time out the Gorilla comes out; there is so much audio stimulation that I really fear it has gotten to be too much on an auditory level.”

Serpa said it is also frustrating how little health insurance will pay for hearing aids.

His first set, which cost $1,400 were not covered at all by his policy; to afford them, he had to buy them six months apart.

Serpa’s new digital hearing aids, which

cost $3,000 each, were covered in a small percentage by insurance.

“My hearing aids do help me immensely, and with the digital ones it’s not like the old days where they increase the volume of everything; these can be programmed to make up for deficits,” Serpa said.

When he first received them, he was advised to wear them for four hours at a time.

“It is like breaking in a new pair of shoes—my brain had to relearn how to hear, and it was very stressful,” he said.

Alison Stanton is a freelance writer who lives in the East Valley. She can be reached at alison@santansun.com.

said Jane Hassel, who coordinated the event with Ron Brown. A Fat Tire Bike decked out in Arizona Cardinals colors will be raffled off at 2:30 p.m. at the 480 Neighborhood Bar.

Segways were added onto the list of vehicles because many Chandler residents ride them in the area, Hassel said.

The last Pick a Ride event was two years ago and raised $4,500. This year’s goal is $4,800, in line with the Club 480 theme.

“Firefighters will take care of a family who has a home fire, but they will also make sure the kids have shoes on their feet and clothes on their back,” Hassel said. Support from the ride for the charities go for children in need whether or not their families are victimized by fires, Hassel said.

Hassel expects a diverse group of riders that day.

“The event will bring out people of all ages,” Hassel said. “They can come on a Harley, ride a bicycle or Segway. It’s going to support the firefighter charities and the children of Chandler.”

Hassel said the owners of 480 Neighborhood Bar, Bill and Flossie Mohler, asked to host this year’s event and suggested the proceeds go to the Chandler Firefighters Charities.

Hassel and Ron Brown enjoy coordinating the event with the Mohlers and getting involved. “For us it’s the camaraderie,” Hassel said. “It is part of taking care of Chandler children.”

Ken Abramczyk is an associate editor at the SanTan Sun News. He can be reached at ken@santansun.com.

features five pizzas, and, of course, customers can create their own, too, from a selection of 21 toppings.

Customers can select from 40 different wines, 31 of which can be ordered by the glass, ranging in price from $7 to $13 a glass or $26 to $85 by the bottle. Happy hour features 13 of the wines at $5 a glass, which also helps those families on a tight budget.

Desserts range from $4 to $8, featuring homemade tiramisu, mini cannoli, gelatos, sorbets, zeppole (Italian fritters tossed in powdered sugar) and other items.

Popo, Fonseca and the restaurant staff listen to the customers. “We have to listen to everyone whether it is good or bad,” Popo said. “That’s an integral part to make things better.”

Popo graduated with a degree in psychology from ASU, but never moved back to Chicago. Instead he stayed, worked for a bit in the financial industry, and continued working as a bartender, which he did as a student. “I’ve always been doing that,” he said of his restaurant work.

“It’s about meeting new people,” Popo said. “It’s all about the people, the guests and the staff. It’s never boring.”

Stone & Vine Urban Italian is located at 1035 W. Queen Creek Rd., Chandler. For more information, call (480) 524-0246 or visit www.stoneandvine.com.

Ken Abramczyk is an associate editor at the SanTan Sun News. He can be reached at ken@santansun.com.

Chandler pools to open as weather heats up

Six Chandler pools and aquatic centers will open in May as warmer temperatures usher in the season of sunscreen and swimsuits.

“I’m looking at what I would pay if I was going out,” Popo said. “You want to see people multiple times a week. To do that, you have to be affordable. We have to fit their budget.”

Popo describes the urban Italian concept as an Italian bistro, as the menu also features paninis and bruschetta. Classics like lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, eggplant parmigiana and rigatoni bolognese all grace the menu. Dishes like Milan’s chicken (pan-seared chicken breast with grilled asparagus, fresh avocado, onions, tomatoes, basil and lemon) will fit the palate looking for something less filling than the traditional pasta dishes, Popo said.

Pizzas are baked over oak and pecan woods over 750 degrees. The menu

Popo opened in Chandler because he liked the community’s demographics of young families and the close proximity of the Price Road corridor. The restaurant, the former site of a pizzeria, seats 275 which includes outside seating on a lakeside patio. Inside the seating and atmosphere provides a stylish, but casual, vibe.

Popo said executive chef Alfonso Fonseca develops the menus for both locations on his own. “It’s always about fresh clean ingredients,” Popo said. “He’s always open to feedback.” Some of Popo’s favorites, along with the traditional dishes, are appetizers, such as eggplant rollatini (sliced eggplant rolled with ricotta cheese and marinara topped with homemade mozzarella) and mussels fra diavlo (mussels with marinara sauce).

Hamilton Aquatic Center and Nozomi Aquatic Center will open for public swimming Saturday, May 2. Meanwhile, residents can jump into Desert Oasis Aquatic Center starting Saturday, May 16; Arrowhead Pool will open Saturday, May 23; and Folley Pool follows on Friday, May 29.

Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center opened for the season on Saturday, March 7.

Admission fees are $1 for children 2 to 17 years old; $2.25 for adults 18 to 54 years old and $1.25 for seniors 55 years and older. Each facility will be offering one free swim time and $1 family swim time per week. Punch passes and family season passes are available to Chandler residents at a discount rate.

Visit www.chandleraz.gov/aquatics for opening schedules and hours of operation, or call the Pool Information Line at (480) 782-2733.

Rawhide

Rawhide is putting a Western spin on Mother’s Day, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday, May 10. The world-famous Rawhide Steakhouse will offer an array of western selections including slow-roasted prime rib, sage-crusted pork loin with apple marmalade, mesquite-grilled top sirloin, lemon-herb chicken and dill-buttered salmon. That’s just for dinner. The cost for the whole shebang is $21.95 for adults; $9.95 for children. For reservations, call (480) 5025600 or email reso@rawhide.com.

Social Box Neighborhood Eatery

All mothers will receive a special gift while dining at Social Box Neighborhood Eatery this Mother’s Day. The brunch will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, May 10. The menu items include eggs Benedict; steak and eggs; Social Box breakfast burrito; CA omelet; meat lovers omelet; American breakfast; brioche French toast; banana pancakes; morning pizza; Belgian waffles and biscuits and gravy. The brunch dishes also include a 12-ounce draft beer, mimosa, bloody Mary, tea, coffee, juice or soda. For more information, or to make reservations, call (480) 899-6735 or visit www.socialboxeateries.com.

Social Box is located at 1371 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler.

Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill

A complimentary photograph and frame will be given to all mothers who dine at Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill this Mother’s Day. A photographer will be on hand at the Chandler location, 7221 W. Ray Rd., to capture that special moment. Free dessert, the chef’s choice, will also be given to mothers.

For more information, visit www.ztejas.com.

SanTan Brewing Company

Enjoy a Mother’s Day buffet with a carving station from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at SanTan Brewing Company, 8 S. San Marcos Pl., Chandler, Sunday, May 10. The buffet is $23 for adults and $15 for kids 6 to 12 years old.

The carving station will include smoked prime rib au jus and ham. The buffet will include breakfast pastries; fresh fruit; scrambled eggs; multi-grain pancakes; house smoked bacon; tater tots; poblano mashed potatoes; sausage links; cinnamon French toast; jalapeño brat hash; macaroni and cheese; assorted desserts; shrimp and grits; dinner rolls; chicken n’awlins and pork enchiladas.

For more information, call (480) 917-8700 or visit www.santanbrewing.com.

Ocotillo Golf Resort

A Mother’s Day Brunch Grand Buffet will be held in the ballroom of Ocotillo Golf Resort, 3751 S. Clubhouse Dr., Chandler, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, May 10. The brunch will feature a hand-carved meat station with

Sip, Soak and Splash at Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Memorial Day weekend

The Sip, Soak and Splash package is being offered by the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa as a way to kick off summer from Friday, May 22, through Monday, May 25.

The package includes accommodations and four wristbands granting entrance for two children and two adults into the resort’s Soak and Splash water lawn for a room rate of $139 per night.

From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 23, and Sunday, May 24, the party will take place on Hemapik Lawn with a 22foot dual slip and slide, multiple sizes of inflatable water slides, a water tag station, DJ entertainment and family-friendly concession stands for the ultimate in lawnside gourmet creations.

The resort will offer s’mores and songs around the resort’s fire pit from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, as well as bocce, life-sized Jenga and cornhole.

Cinema Splash, another family-friendly activity, will be held at 7:30 p.m. Saturday

and Sunday. Live poolside entertainment will take from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. with ‘80s cover band Rock Lobster and ‘90s cover band Smashed will play from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.

Other distinctive experiences happening Friday through Sunday include the Native American culturally themed courses such as jewelry and dream catcher-making courses, gourd painting, canvas and cocktails and Chemeith making—the ancient bread of the Pima and Maricopa people.

Grab a bite from Hanyo Poolside Bar & Grill at the resort’s main pool all weekend long.

To reserve a Sip, Soak and Splash weekend experience call (866) 837-4156 and mention rate plan MEM15 or visit www. wildhorsepassresort.com/summer.

Guests not on the Sip, Soak and Splash package can buy individual entrance wristbands for $20 per person, based on availability.

prime rib au jus and tender pork; a made-toorder omelet station; chilled seafood with shrimp, snow crab claws and smoked salmon and bagels. Diners will also have the choice of a variety of breakfast items, side dishes and an assortment of dessert items during the brunch.

Reservations are required for the brunch. It is $55 for adults; $25 for children ages 6 to 12. The prices do not include tax and gratuity.

Bernard’s Restaurant at Ocotillo Golf Resort will have a limited menu until 3 p.m. on Mother’s Day featuring some of its popular breakfast and lunch items. Reservations are highly recommended.

For more information, visit www.ocotillogolf.com or call (480) 917-6660.

Serrano’s Mexican Restaurant

Mothers will be treated all day Saturday, May 9, at Serrano’s Mexican Restaurant with half off of their meal.

Serrano’s is located at 141 S. Arizona Ave. For more information call (480) 899-3318 or visit www.serranosaz.com.

Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa

The resort’s award-winning Ko’Sin Restaurant is serving a four-course, prix-fixe meal, complete with an appetizer, decadent dessert selections and a specialty children’s menu for its youngest guests.

Offerings include potato leek soup, brioche French toast stuffed with berry mascarpone and topped with powdered

sugar and vanilla whipped cream, and peaches and crème with items from Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek. The meal is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, May 10, and costs $65, $60 for seniors, and $25 for children ages 5 to 12. Children younger than 4 are free. Every mother in attendance will receive a complimentary long-stemmed rose. For reservations, call (602) 385-5726.

Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort

The historic Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort is hosting a brunch buffet from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 10, featuring culinary offerings from Executive Chef Aaron Geister and his culinary team. They use locally sourced traditional American fare. Highlights include smoked salmon, shrimp cocktail, smoke paprika-dusted chicken breast, vegetable egg Benedict, an omelet station, herb- and garlic-crusted prime rib and a chocolate fondue station with berries, brownies, cookies and dessert bars.

For reservations, call (480) 857-4401. Prices $44.95, $16.95 for children ages 5 to 12, and free for children 5 and younger. For more information on the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Resort visit www.SanMarcosResort.com or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

Meghan McCoy is a section editor with the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@santansun.com.

Cinco de Mayo celebration is going to the dogs

A full day of fun and excitement is planned for the 18th annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration and Chihuahua Races being held Saturday, May 2, in the Downtown Chandler Library Plaza, 100 E. Commonwealth Ave.

Presented by the Si Se Puede Foundation, the festive event will be free from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. The gates will then close and reopen at 3 p.m. with a $10 admission fee; $5 off with a Chandler Public Library Card. Children 12 and younger are free.

The event includes entertainment, a car show, food vendors and the Día de los Niños Health Fair. The Chandler library will offer craft making and informational activities and HALO Animal Rescue will have Chihuahuas available for adoption from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. The health fair is sponsored by the United Healthcare Community Plan and will include free health screenings and healthy living information from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The popular Chihuahua Races and King and Queen crowning ceremony will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Registration of Chihuahuas for the races is from 2:30 p.m. to

4 p.m. and is open to the first 150 dogs. The cost to enter a dog is $20. The fee to enter a Chihuahua in the King and Queen coronation is $10.

This year from 3 p.m. to 12 a.m., there will be wine tasting and margarita contests and a beer garden offered by Crescent Crown Distributing for those 21 years and older. The entertainment lineup includes Latin All-Stars, Carmella y Mas (Latin jazz), La Voz Diamante (Olivia Calderon, mariachi) and others.

Break Time registration begins May 2 San Tan Mountain Regional Park May and June activities

Chandler residents will have the opportunity to view the City’s quarterly Break Time recreation guide for the summer, as well as register for summer classes, starting at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 2. The following week at 10 a.m. Friday, May 8, nonresidents can sign up for classes.

The summer guide features recreation and lifestyle classes and programs for people of all ages and abilities during the months of June, July and August.

Donuts and Dads preschool activity, special interest summer intersession camps and vegan cooking are among some of the new programs this session.

Basha Rd., or Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd.

Register for swim programs at the Aquatics Administrative offices at 650 E. Ryan Rd.

The City’s quarterly Break Time recreation guide is available to the public. Submitted photo

Intersession camps for youth, adult sports leagues, swim lessons, free family swim opportunities and the Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular are among some of the returning favorite programs and activities.

All of the activities are available at various times and locations throughout the city.

Printed copies of the Break Time recreation guide are available at numerous city facilities and an electronic version can be accessed online at www.chandleraz.gov/ breaktime.

Register at www.chandleraz.gov/ registration, by mail, or in person at the Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave.; Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd.; Snedigar Recreation Center, 4500 S.

Beautiful new colors from your salon.

that you can trust.

National Park and Recreation Month will highlight the enduring importance of parks and recreation in the world in July, which marks 30 years. Chandler Parks & Recreation will celebrate the past, present and future of parks and rec by “getting gnarly” and “rocking out” in ‘80s style throughout July by offering retro theme programs at ‘80s prices or free. For more details pick up Break Time or view the electronic copy online.

“We are thrilled to be celebrating the 30th anniversary of Park & Recreation month,” said Brooke Peterson, marketing and communications coordinator of the City of Chandler. “We are offering dozens of free or low-cost, drop-in activities for the community to celebrate Park and Recreation month with us. Those who participate will be entered to win a parks and recreation prize pack. The more they participate, the more chances they have to win.”

For more information on class registration, call (480) 782-2727. Keep up to date on the latest Chandler Recreation news and information when “liking” the Chandler Recreation Facebook page, subscribe to Chandler Recreation on YouTube and follow @ChandlerRec on Twitter and Instagram.

Join staff at San Tan Mountain Regional Park for one of its main featured events during the months of May and June that is guaranteed to entertain all ages.

Wag the Dog

At 9 a.m. Saturday, May 2, the program “Wag the Dog” will be held for owners and their dogs. Participants will take a stroll along the Goldmine Trail, which is approximately a 2-mile round trip hike. As the dogs enjoy the desert smell, their human companions will talk about dog safety on trails and ways to beat the summer heat. Bring plenty of water. Dogs must be on a leash no more than 6 feet long.

Movie in the Park: ‘A Bug’s Life’

Bring a blanket and a pillow to the Nature Center and enjoy “A Bug’s Life,” a family-friendly movie, at 12 p.m. Saturday, May 2. Attendees are asked to arrive 15 minutes early. Concessions are available inside the center.

Bloomin’ Cactus Walk

will also include quiet time. Wear closedtoed shoes, bring water and a flashlight. Those interested should meet at the main trailhead area just west of the Visitor Center.

Mountain Bike 101: Beginners Ride

Join the San Tan Shredders for a beginner’s ride where participants will learn some basic skills that every aspiring mountain biker should know. The ride will cover topics ranging from proper riding position to braking and how to navigate uphill and downhill climbs. A helmet is required for safety reasons. Participants should bring plenty of water and an extra tube. All riding abilities are welcome to attend. The program will be held at 8 a.m. Sunday, June 14, at the main trailhead west of the Visitor Center.

Just for Kids: Cool Crafts for Father’s Day

At 8 a.m. Friday, May 15, individuals will have the opportunity to hike the Goldmine Trail in search of cactus blooms. Meet at the Goldmine Trailhead on the north side of the park. From Hunt Highway, west on Empire Road, left on Wagon Wheel, right at Skyline to parking lot. Wear closed-toed shoes, hat and sunscreen. Bring a camera and plenty of water.

Scorpion Scavenger Hunt

Join others as they set out for a desert exploration at night in search for scorpions and find out just how cool these arachnids really are at 8 p.m. Saturday, May 30. Wear closed-toed shoes; bring plenty of water and a black light. Black lights are available for purchase inside the Visitors Center. Meet at the flag pole.

Night Owl Hike

The adults-only Night Owl Hike will start at 8 p.m. Friday, June 5. The hike will begin on the Stargazer Loop Trail, 2.2 miles, to cover such topics as hiking safety tips for the evening denizen, planning the family campout, astronomy and more. The program

Make something fun for Father’s Day at 12 p.m. Saturday, June 20, inside the Nature Center. Three tables will be set up with different make and take home projects. The program is 90 minutes.

All About Scorpions

Learn about the facts, myths and reputation behind scorpions during a short presentation in the Visitor Center at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, June 20. Once participants learn about scorpions, they will then meet them face-to-face on a Scorpion Scavenger Hunt at 8 p.m.

Sonoran Desert Simplified

At 7 a.m. Sunday, June 28, a short 1.3-mile hike on the Littleleaf Trail will take place to talk about all the plants and animals that live in the desert. Wear closed-toed shoes, hat and sunscreen and bring plenty of water. Those interested should meet at the flag pole.

For a complete listing of the May and June programs, visit www.maricopa.gov/ parks/santan.

San Tan Mountain Regional Park has a $6 vehicle day-use entry fee. There are no additional fees for programs, unless otherwise noted. San Tan Mountain Regional Park is located at 6533 W. Phillips Rd., Queen Creek.

Hearing loss association hosts last meeting of season

The Sun Lakes Chapter of the Hearing Loss Association’s season will conclude with a “rap” session providing attendees with the opportunity to discuss issues of hearing loss.

The meeting will be held from 12:45 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, May 14, at the Ed Robson Branch Library Lecky Center, 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. Attendees are asked to bring questions, concerns, successes, failures, sources of frustrations and strategies that

have worked with them to the meeting. CART, real-time captioning, is provided and the meeting room is looped for hearing accessibility.

For additional information contact Liz Booth at halib72@gmail.com, Regina Milgroom at reggiefaith@gmail.com or call Scott Sjolin at (602) 652-3000 and ask for the Ed Robson Branch.

Suspense author will make a stop at Sun Lakes Robson Library

Author John Lescroart will make an appearance from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, May 8, at the Sun Lakes Robson Library’s Lecky Room, 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes.

The author’s 26th book, “The Fall,” is set in San Francisco and comes at a time of heavy criticism of the police for dragging their feet identifying African-American suspects and the DA’s office for failing to convict the accused.

Seventeen of Lescroart’s books have been on the New York Times bestsellers list. He has sold more than 10 million copies, which have been translated into 22 languages in 75 countries.

Some of his books include “A Certain Justice,” “Guilt,” “The Mercy Rule” and “Betrayal.” Lescroart began his career as a musician. Although he still plays the guitar and writes his own music and songs, his career path changed as a result of a near-death experience. In 1980, Lescroart contracted spinal meningitis while surfing at a Southern California beach. The water was contaminated and he became seriously ill slipping into a coma for 11 days. In the wake of that recovery, Lescroart began to write full time with a renewed dedication.

Celebrate World Red Cross Day by giving blood

The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood this May in honor of World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day on Friday, May 8—the birthday of International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement founder, Henry Dunant.

From 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 16, individuals can donate their blood at the Elks Lodge 2429, 1775 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler.

To make an appointment to give blood, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit www.redcrossblood. org or call (800) 733-2767. Those who are unable to give blood can support blood donations and invite others to make a lifesaving donation by creating a SleevesUp virtual blood drive at www. redcrossblood.org/sleevesup.

Last year, approximately 3.1 million volunteer blood donors rolled up a sleeve to help the Red Cross meet the needs of patients at approximately 2,600 hospitals nationwide. Donors of all blood types, especially those with types O negative, A negative and B negative, are needed to help ensure blood is available for patients this spring. World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day recognizes the local and global impact of the Red Cross mission. For more than 130 years, the American Red Cross has been helping people, including those in need of blood transfusions, in communities across the U.S. It is the only blood service organization that also provides disaster relief, services for active and veteran military personnel and their families, and health and safety training.

Indulge, Fashion + Fun for Moms event helps celebrate holiday

Moms can celebrate Mother’s Day at Phoenix Premium Outlets by enjoying an evening that focuses on fashion and fun. Indulge, Fashion + Fun for Moms will run from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 7.

“Simon has had a longstanding tradition of celebrating moms and the important roles they play in our lives,” said Marketing and Business Development Director Jennifer Dennison. “Held right before Mother’s Day, Indulge events create a perfect opportunity for moms, who always think of others first, to focus on themselves and enjoy a social evening of fashion, food and fun.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to do much more than shop for spring style must haves. They can also experience fashion demonstrations, light bites, nail polish, touch-ups and in store events.

Moms who have receipts totaling $200 or more will receive a cosmetic bag gift with purchase at customer service. The special event will also provide mothers with an opportunity to enter to win a night at the Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino.

Indulge events are free and open to women of all ages. For more information, visit www.premiumoutlets. com/phoenix.

Butler will speak at Sun Lakes Democratic Club

The Sun Lakes Democratic Club will hold its next meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, May 11, featuring Maricopa County Democratic Party Chairwoman Kelli Butler in the Navajo Room of the Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes.

Butler was elected to the leadership role of the Maricopa County Democratic Party at the January reorganization meeting. She has been an active member of the Democratic Party, serving as chairwoman and first

vice chairwoman of LD 28. In the 2012 election campaign, Butler was the neighborhood organizer responsible for recruiting, motivating and organizing the work of the volunteers. In the 2014 election, she ran for the office of state senator from LD 28. Nonperishable food items are collected for the

Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank at all meetings. The food items are collected in the west parking lot from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The north entrance of the Sun Lakes Sunset Grill lobby also has a collections box. In 2014, 1,880 pounds of food was collected, as well as $170.

Through March of this year,

Back pain springing up this Spring East Valley clinic provides solution

WIth the arrival of Spring, daylight grows longer and many people start spending more time working on their backswings, backstrokes, backhands, backyard gardens. They also might be spending more time with backaches.

Dr. Alex Bigham, CEO of Novocur Pain Management Clinics, explains that taking on new or added physical activity can be particularly tricky for patients with sciatic leg pain and back pain. He says, “A sudden inspiration to take up tennis over the weekend can often end with a call to our clinic on Monday.”

Epidural injections are one of the most e ective treatments Novocur uses to quickly relieve sciatic pain. A skilled physician who specializes in pain management performs this advanced procedure safely with the help of x-ray guidance. The medication is carefully injected directly around the nerves that cause the pain to reduce inflammation and provide fast relief.

To learn how Novocur can help end the pain from sciatica or many other types of pain, call 480-855-6686 or go to novocur.com

614.5 pounds of food and $89 has been collected.

Everyone is welcome to attend the Sun Lakes Democratic Club meetings, which are always held on the second Monday of each month. Refreshments are served.

For more information call Tom Amrhein at (480) 895-1162.

IronOaks GM gives update on neighborhood

Once a month IronOaks at Sun Lakes’ general manager, Faye Stone, gives the board of directors and the community a report summarizing past, present and current projects and their status. Because the amenities are not private, all of the upcoming events are open to the public. For more information, call (480) 895-7275. Here is a summary of Stone’s report.

Completed Projects:

• Palms Pump Station at Oakwood: Pima Utilities began work on the Palms pump station on March 9, which included the restrooms.

• Halley Fountain at Ironwood: The plumbing is working as designed and pumps water to and from the lake. The blue paint has been removed and the base has been painted a neutral color.

Current Projects:

• Sustainable landscaping: They removed winter flowers on April 20 and planned to plant summer flowers before the end of April. They were also scheduled to spread granite along the walking paths. Drop-off areas will be raised and bare spots top dressed with granite.

• Tripping hazards: Tripping hazards along the walking path have been addressed and two locations are left and were scheduled to be demolished by the end of April.

• F&B operations: New menus for Ironwood, Oakwood and Poolside were set to be in place by May 1.

• 2014 financial audit: The accounting

team has provided an external CPA firm with all requested documentation and an onsite visit was scheduled for April 27 through April 30.

Future Projects:

• Lakes Course at Oakwood: The Lakes golf course renovation project was approved at the March 25 board of directors meeting. A preconstruction meeting was held on April 15 and mobilization began April 25, with the project beginning construction on May 11.

• Lakes Pump Station at Oakwood: Earlier this year, the project was approved by the board of directors, however, the project has been delayed due to the control panel. The delivery date on the panel is May 11.

• Halley and Voax Pools at Ironwood: Southwest Gas Corp.’s engineering blueprints and proposals were approved at the March 25 board of directors meeting. Community officials have been informed that work would begin the middle of May. On April 21 they were onsite to determine the meter location for both pools.

• Common area RFP: An RFP was created and published for block fence and gate painting. In Oakwood it will be primarily the western side of the property and at Ironwood the north wall along Arrowvale Drive.

• F&B RFP: In March, an RFP was sent out to interested parties, who then met onsite on March 16. They prepared

Chandler resident receives charity’s volunteer award

The first time Chandler resident Randy Voigt visited St. Vincent de Paul’s main campus, he knew he had to come back.

Now, more than two and a half years later, he was named one of the organization’s volunteers of the year during a luncheon on April 23.

Voigt, who leads the volunteers every Thursday during dinner service at the organization’s Family Dining Room, said he decided to volunteer after realizing he wanted to make a difference in his community but could not afford to donate large amounts of money.

Instead, he searched online for nonprofit organizations where he could work with children. After finding St. Vincent de Paul’s Dream Center, an activity center where kids who attend the Family Evening Meal can engage in activities such as art, crafts and homework tutoring, Voigt signed up to help.

“I really had a great first experience,” he said. “I spent time with a little boy who was a great reader, so naturally I decided to come back. Since then, I’ve been here every week.”

A few months later, the dining room manager asked Voigt if he could help lead volunteers during dinner service.

“I love it,” he said. “After coming here for so long and spending time with the people we serve, I can tell you we get out of it way more than they do.”

Todd Cooley, the charity’s business relationships manager, nominated Voigt for the award. He said the decision to nominate him was an easy one.

“Randy has been an amazing volunteer

over the last couple of years, and he ignites the spirit of everyone he touches,” he said. “His passion for our organization is extraordinary.”

Cooley said what makes Voigt such a valuable volunteer is his continued commitment to getting other people involved. Voigt, who works at UTC Aerospace, has recruited 60 of his workmates to join him in volunteering over the last year. But his influence doesn’t end there: one of his daughters organized a month-long food drive to benefit the organization.

“I was about in tears when I found out I had been nominated,” Voigt said. “And then when I heard I won, I just couldn’t believe it.”

Voigt’s two daughters, workmates, neighbors and other friends came to support him during the event, in which he was not only an award recipient, but was also the inspirational speaker.

“When I was up there, I didn’t get to say thank you to the people at St. Vincent de Paul,” he said. “You have your family and your work family, and now I have my St. Vincent de Paul family.”

Established in 1946, St. Vincent de Paul is dedicated to feeding, clothing, housing and healing our neighbors in need across northern and central Arizona. Some of the programs include services for the homeless, medical and dental care for the working poor and charity dining rooms.

To volunteer, call (602) 261-6886 or visit the website at www.stvincentdepaul.net/ volunteer.

and submitted proposals on April 17, summarizing possible options for our F&B department in relation to operations and décor.

The following events are scheduled:

• May 3: Wine dinner at Oakwood

• May 7: Team trivia at Ironwood (every Thursday night)

• May 10: Mother’s Day Sunday buffet at Oakwood

• May 15: Hold ‘em poker at Ironwood (every Friday night)

• May 18: Paint and Wine Party at Ironwood (third Monday of every month)

• May 27: Bunco tournament at Ironwood (sign up required in advance).

Flying is a longtime love for Chandler resident

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

As an 8-year-old boy, Jon Melby jumped from the roof of his two-story Minnesota home into a pile of leaves. Immediately, his thoughts went flying—and they haven’t landed again since.

He made a parachute out of an old blanket and continued jumping off the roof. Melby also took up doing freestyle skiing, which allowed him to fly as he skied off huge jumps.

“I loved everything about it,” he said.

At the age of 12, Melby attended an air show with his parents, a memory that he still holds near his heart. Before the event, his parents snapped a shot of him with infamous air show pilot Bob Hoover, further igniting his passion to become a pilot.

An avid hockey player and skier, Melby was forced to find a new adventure when his parents moved to Phoenix. Through

Introducing

schoolmates, he discovered gliders.

After graduating from high school, he decided to become a ski instructor before joining the U.S. Air Force. He was active duty for four years and spent seven years in the reserves. During his active duty, he worked closely with CIA, Seal Team 6, Delta Force, Army Rangers and International Special Forces.

“My life from 18 to 22 was nothing but pure adventure,” said Melby, who lives in Chandler. “It fueled the flame to do the adventurous things.”

At age 19, he sold his car and bought an airplane. He earned his pilot’s license after flying daily for three weeks.

“I’ve always known I wanted to fly as an air show pilot,” Melby said. “It takes a lot of skill, training and money.”

He spent three months training for his

first aerobatic competition with his Pitts S2B biplane. Melby took home third place from that competition and then won first and second place in the next two competitions.

“I didn’t practice a lot. I (just) went out and did it,” Melby said.

Now in his 14th year as an air show pilot, 53-year-old Melby said he still loves to fly in front of a crowd.

The moment he shared with his hero Hoover has been carried forward as he meets youngsters at his shows. Melby said he makes it a point to talk to kids who recognize him, especially the shy ones. He tells them that at the end of the show, he will wiggle his aircraft’s tail—waving to them from the sky.

Melby, who appeared at the Chandler Airport Dayz in April, will be featured on Discovery Channel’s “Airshow,” which will debut in June. Melby met the show’s star, Dave

Mathieson, when he was a rookie trying to break into the air show business.

“I kind of saved his life in Canada,” Melby said.

When he learned that Mathieson was having problems at the controls, Melby told him to reduce the power and hold 90 miles per hour.

“If you can add power, you climb. Use your engine for power,” he recalls telling him.

The advice led to a successful landing. Mathieson and Melby call each other “blood brothers for life.”

For more information about Melby, visit www.jonmelby.com.

Meghan McCoy is a section editor with the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@santansun.com.

Entrepreneurs honored for outstanding customer service

Allstate—which boasts business leaders and involved citizens in Chandler—has announced its 2015 Allstate Premier Agencies:

• Jim Kaup, at 565 W. Chandler Blvd., Suite 218, (480) 821-2763.

• Kevin Lum, at 5055 W. Ray Rd., Suite 22, (480) 883-8798.

• Joe Kittelson, at 1351 N. Alma School Rd., Suite 160, (480) 545-8877.

• Jacque Riggs, at 3160 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 4, (480) 883-7776.

• Jason Tuttle located at 985 W. Chandler Heights Rd., Suite 3, (480) 477-7511.

• Joe Kennedy located at 2330 N. Alma School Rd., Suite 126, (480) 526-8277.

“The Premier Agency designation is not only about successful business results,” said Jim Turner, regional sales leader for Allstate. “The honor also demonstrates our agencies’ commitment to delivering an accessible, knowledgeable and personal customer experience.”

The Allstate Premier Agency designation is bestowed upon less than half of Allstate’s nearly 10,000 agency owners across the country. This designation is presented to Allstate agency owners for their outstanding business performance and commitment to putting customers at the center of their agencies’ work.

LibCon 2015

Chandler teenagers didn’t have to travel far or spend a ton of cash to attend a fun and entertaining comic book and sci-fi/fantasy convention, or “con.” For the fifth year, the Chandler Public Library hosted LibCon 2015 in Chandler. This year it was held at the Boys and Girls Clubs of the East Valley facility in Chandler. STSN photos by Tiera Allen