SanTan Sun; 07-04-15: Neighbors

Neighbors

Blood drive on July 11 to honor Brandon Flavin

BY ALISON STANTON

As the facility maintenance department supervisor for the Ocotillo Community Association, Brandon Flavin worked tirelessly to ensure the area looked its best.

So when Flavin died from injuries sustained in a car accident in late May, the Ocotillo Community Association wanted to do something tangible in his memory.

The Brandon Flavin Memorial Blood Drive is set for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 11, at Ocotillo Village Health Club and Spa, at 4200 S. Alma School Rd. in Chandler.

“To honor him in a meaningful way through a Red Cross blood drive seemed like not only the right thing to do, it seemed like the only thing to do,” said Lory Lasica, Ocotillo Community Association newsletter editor.

Children’s Organ Transplant Association. That continued in death when his organs were donated.

“Because of him, 70 people’s lives were saved or greatly improved,” Lasica said. “So you can see, Brandon was the first one in line to help someone else.”

As facility maintenance department supervisor

In addition to his commitment to the community, Flavin spent most of his life giving to others. He was active with several charitable organizations ranging from the Arizona Patriot Guard Riders to the

Mike Palermo, vice president of the Ocotillo Community Association Board of Directors, met Flavin almost 10 years ago.

“Most of the residents of Ocotillo probably saw Brandon out and about during his time with us,” Palermo said.

Flavin and his staff were responsible for 162 acres of interconnected lakes and water features, pumping systems, parks, common areas and more than 23 miles of shoreline.

“It is a big job, at times challenging, and one that he took great pride in,” Palermo said. “Brandon was dedicated to ensuring that the community was at its best. He will be missed.”

Even after knowing Flavin for several years, Lasica said she has learned a lot about him from his mother, Martha.

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Heather DeSimone has been in the costume jewelry business for more than 20 years, but it all paid off this spring when her handmade two-sided moonglow earrings landed a spot in the MTV Movie Awards’ gift lounge.

A Chandler resident, DeSimone is the sole proprietor of Leetie Lovendale, for which she creates jewelry from vintage Lucite parts. Since the movie awards, DeSimone has been the darling of fashion bloggers.

“It’s been a good overall experience,” said DeSimone, who moved to the Valley a year ago from Maine.

Leetie Lovendale’s product was given to movie award participants and media thanks to The Artisan Group, an exclusive juried organization of artisans who collectively provides a sampling of its handcrafted products to celebrities. Leetie Lovendale’s earrings were joined in the bag by a variety of products including skincare lines and vegan nail polish.

“The group has been really good at helping new and small businesses get exposure,” DeSimone said.

Jewelry has been a big influence on DeSimone’s life. She co-owned a bead and

Chandler earns Playful City USA honors for ninth year

BY ISRAEL GONZALEZ

For the ninth straight year, Chandler has been recognized as a Playful City USA community by KaBOOM! and The Humana Foundation.

KaBOOM! honored 241 cities across the country including 14 in Arizona as 2015 Playful City USA communities. Chandler—like Gilbert and Tucson—was one of 13 cities that has won the honor nine consecutive times.

The KaBOOM! Playful City USA awards cities that are committed to offering recreational activities and programs to promote active playing for children in the community.

“Playability is crucial to the success of our future communities, and we are proud of the work these cities and leaders are doing to provide a better quality of life for all residents, and especially families,” KaBOOM! President James Siegal said in a press release. “Play provides a competitive

advantage for cities looking to attract and retain residents. With these esteemed leaders, and our friends and partners across the country, we continue to prioritize play for all kids.”

A number of the City’s activities and programs helped Chandler earn the honor, said Brooke Peterson, marketing and communications coordinator for the Chandler Recreation Division.

“Chandler provides recreational opportunities through a variety of mediums,” Peterson said. “We offer hundreds of classes...provide field trips, offer scholarship programs and opportunities to volunteer throughout the summer.”

Peterson also highlighted Chandler’s Aquatics program which offers scholarships, gives swim lessons for free or little cost, and also provides opportunities to enjoy a pool at no cost. Last year, the program awarded

Summer in the Valley is hot. However, here’s a recipe using SanTan Brewing Company’s award-winning Mr. Pineapple to help Arizonans keep cool while they’re cooking on July 4.

Mr. Pineapple’s Cajun Barbecued Shrimp

is an easy seasonal recipe that uses easyto-get ingredients. This recipe takes the term “barbecue” and shows that not all “barbecue” is on the grill. Certain cuisines refer to barbecue more as a style of flavor than a way of cooking.

“Brandon was always a pillar of strength for his family and especially his mom, his ‘bonus mom’ and his siblings,” Lasica said.

“He has always had a caring heart and a desire to help others. He was also a loyal and devoted friend and once you became his friend, you also became his family.”

Lasica said she hopes to have a good turnout at the blood drive.

“Each pint of blood donated can help save up to three lives. If 50 people donate,

HOW TO HELP

we would be able to impact the lives of 150 people in one day,” she said.

Lasica said she recently read a quote that made her think of Flavin: A life that touches others is never forgotten.

“Brandon Flavin will never be forgotten and every person who donates blood and touches the lives of others will never be forgotten either,” she said.

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

To schedule a donation for the Brandon Flavin Memorial Blood Drive, go to www. redcross.org and click on “Donate Blood.” Enter “Ocotillo” in the red “Find a Blood Drive” box and click on the red arrow to select an appointment time.

For information on eligibility to donate blood, visit http://rdcrss.org/1KmnUPf or call (866) 236-3276. Those wanting to make a financial donation can visit www.redcross.org/ donate. Select “Dedicate this gift to a friend or loved one” and enter Flavin’s name.

106 scholarships and drew 317 people with its free lessons.

Afterschool recreation programs are also provided by the City to underprivileged youth for families in Chandler Public Housing. On average, 176 of Chandler’s atrisk youth participate in the program each month.

“We want to make sure that recreation is available to everyone,” Peterson said. “It doesn’t matter whether people are down on their luck or going through a hard time.”

Chandler always looks for what’s new and what is working to sustain this level of recreation, Peterson added.

In celebration of being named a Playful City USA community, Mayor Jay Tibshraeny

will host an annual Day of Play from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, at Tumbleweed Park. The shows promote programs and activities that Chandler has to offer. Admission is free.

Throughout July, Chandler is celebrating National Park and Recreation Month. Using an ‘80s theme, the City will provide retrothemed programs at throwback prices or for free. For more information about Chandler’s July events, visit chandleraz.gov/ parkandrecmonth. More information on the Playful City USA program can be found at www.playfulcityusa.org.

Israel Gonzalez is an intern for the SanTan Sun News. He can be reached at israel@santansun.com.

Mr. Pineapple’s Cajun Barbecued Shrimp gives barbecue a whole new flavor. Submitted photo

LE CORDON BLEU from page 44

Mr. Pineapple’s Cajun Barbecued Shrimp Servings: 4

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 cup butter

1/4 cup SanTan Mr. Pineapple wheat beer

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined Salt and pepper

1 bunch sliced scallions Cooked brown rice

Directions:

Combine dry ingredients and set aside. Melt butter in a frying pan, add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in shrimp and season with spice mixture. Add beer and Worcestershire, simmer until just cooked through. Serve on cooked rice or in a bowl with French bread on the side. Garnish with scallions.

Courtesy of Chef Jon-Paul Hutchins of Le Cordon Bleu.

Arizona Breakfast Weekend kicks off in July

From Thursday, July 30, through Sunday, Aug. 2, Arizona Breakfast Weekend hits eateries providing diners with special dishes offered at $7, $15 and $25 price points. Arizona Breakfast Weekend, produced by Arizona Restaurant Association, will offer lovers of all things egg, bacon and toast the chance to dine on special breakfast dishes and brunch experiences at restaurants, diners and hotels around the Valley of the Sun.

“We see significant opportunities for operators—both independent and chains—around the breakfast day part,” ARA president and CEO Steve Chucri said. “This is certainly a great opportunity for casual and family dining restaurants to expand or even break into breakfast and brunch menus. For those diners that have come to love the Arizona Restaurant Week experience, you can expect to experience the same culinary diversity, excellence and innovation for which ARW is known, but with the added benefit of starting off the day with us.”

So far, Paul Martin’s, Virtu, Distrito, Proof at the Four Seasons, Perk Eatery, Chase’s Diner, Kale & Clover: Mindful Kitchen, Rusconi’s American Kitchen and all Valley locations of Wildflower Bread Company, The Good Egg and First Watch are participating. For a full list of restaurants and menu items visit www. arizonabreakfastweekend.com, or www. facebook.com/azbreakfastweekend for

frequent updates.

Perk Eatery CoOwner Pauline Martinez is offering diners a chance to taste a new dish— chimichurri hash and eggs—during ABW: sweet potato and Yukon gold potatoes with spring peas, garlic and onion hash topped with two eggs, crumbled feta, chipotle crema and fresh chimichurri sauce.

“We are well known for our breakfast, and I was inspired by Arizona Breakfast Weekend to create a dish that our patrons have never experienced and attract new diners to the restaurant,” Martinez said.

Pool parties set for 9th year

A slew of pool parties are being hosted by Mark-Taylor, Steve LeVine Entertainment & Public Relations and Cox Communications through Saturday, Aug. 29. One of those parties will be held at San Cervantes at the Loop 101 and Chandler Boulevard in Chandler Saturday, Aug. 22.

“An event like this is new to the Valley, but we are confident that it will be embraced with open arms by foodlovers,” added Chucri.

Chefs will have the chance to curate new recipes and to wow breakfast lovers by elevating and celebrating the morning meal.

Three dining price points will be featured and each restaurant participating will select what they are offering from one of these options:

• The Breakfast Bundle will include an over-the-top bundle of breakfast favorites for $7.

• The Brunch Lite will include a minibrunch style dish and Bloody Mary or Mimosa at most locations for $15.

• Brunch will be a traditional resortstyle brunch offering all the bells and culinary whistles for $25.

On Thursday, July 30, and Friday, July 31, some restaurants may choose to offer a “breakfast for dinner” option.

Breakfast Weekend offers diners the chance to taste fresh, local ingredients from partners like presenting sponsor, Hickman’s Eggs.

In its ninth year, the Mark-Taylor Summer of Love pool party series celebrates neighborhood, a sense of community, poolside fun and friends. Each event offers residents and the general public a chance to win a personalized pool party which includes a VIP cabana, playlist curated by the winner, and a Mark-Taylor swag bag. All guests can enjoy complimentary food and beverage, music spun by a live DJ, poolside games and more. Each pool party features a raffle/giveaway benefiting local charity group UMOM New Day Centers. UMOM provides emergency shelter and transitional housing to the homeless and ultimately helps families find permanent, affordable housing opportunities.

These fun, interactive, poolside events offer a great time and a chance for one lucky winner to host his or her own pool party at a Mark-Taylor community. For more information or to RSVP please visit Mark-TaylorPoolParty. com.

Mark-Taylor Corporate is located at 6623 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale.

San Tan Mountain Regional Park summer activities set

Stop by San Tan Mountain Regional Park during the months of July and August for activities that will entertain the entire family.

Night Shredders

Night Shredders will be held at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, at the flag pole. Participants will ride the San Tan trails after park hours, which means it’s only the rocks, dips and turns that will be navigated. The group’s policy “No Rider Left Behind,” means everyone rides together in a group for safety reasons. It is mandatory to wear a helmet. Participants are asked to bring plenty of water, an extra tube and two sources of light; LED rechargeable lights with at least 650 lumen. Riders younger than 18 years old must complete a parental consent form.

Movie Madness in the Park: ‘Babe’

The Nature Center will feature Movie Madness in the Park at 12 p.m. Saturday, July

11. The movie, “Babe,” will share the story of a pig and how he adopts a friendly dog while slowly adjusting to his new home. Bring a comfortable chair, blanket and snacks. Concessions are available inside the Visitor Center.

All About Turkey Vultures

All About Turkey Vultures will take place at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 11, inside the Nature Center. The program will feature the turkey vultures’ life history, cool facts, sounds and calls.

Hiking with the Stars Moonlight Hike

Discover the beauty of the Sonoran Desert under the moon’s silvery glow. Along the way, staff will point out some of their favorite summertime constellations and share stories about the stars and planets above. The hike is 2.2 miles along the Stargazer Trail. Wear closed-toed shoes, bring water and dress comfortably. Meet

at the main trailhead area. The hike will be held at 8 p.m. Friday, July 31.

Bug Theater

What buzzes around the park and often becomes mid-flight meals for nighthawks and bats? What creeps and crawls on the ground looking for a meal to dine on? Who plays the lead character for pollinating desert flowers? Bugs. Bring the kids to see the stars perform at the Bug Theater near the Buddy Pond. Bug nets and viewers are welcome. Wear closed-toed shoes. Bring a flashlight, scorpion light and plenty of water. Meet at the flag pole.

Perseids Meteor Shower Hike and Viewing

Perseids Meteor Shower Hike will be held at 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14. For thousands of years the night sky has been more than just a break from the day. The stars can be a sight of great beauty, a puzzling mystery and a familiar beacon guiding individuals

home. They can be seen from all over the planet and have been the inspiration for many of the stories people have come to enjoy. A 1.3-mile hike will uncover the stories and myths from past cultures, as participants explore the constellations, planets and stars of the night sky. Meet at the main trailhead.

San Tan wants to keep everyone’s eyes to the sky. Join staff at 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14. Bring a blanket, or chairs. Meet at the main trailhead area.

For a complete listing of July and August 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.

Seton grad attending Trinity

BY TRACY HOUSE

There are a lot of “alsos” in 18-yearold Hailey Wilson’s story and, as she prepares to head to San Antonio’s Trinity University to play softball and major in communications, she’s also keeping busy this summer.

One of Seton Catholic Preparatory’s star softball players, Wilson started playing softball when she was 10 after playing baseball for two years. The second basewoman is passionate about the sport and is using that passion to inspire those younger than her.

In fact, she just finished up a week of coaching a softball camp for children at Seton. “There was a middle school clinic so I went back and helped coach the kids all week,” Hailey said. “We coached them, (taught) them the fundamentals and (had) a little bit of fun.”

But as she prepares to move on from Seton, that isn’t the only legacy she is leaving behind. In addition to playing four years of softball at Seton, Wilson played basketball. “I was very, very fortunate that I also played basketball all four years at Seton,” she said. “I started playing basketball around sixth grade, and just tried out. I happened to make varsity my freshman year, and we won state that year, so I was like, ‘I know I’m sticking with it.’”

There is no denying she was a busy young woman at Seton. She also counts student council and Seton Catholic TV on her list of extracurriculars.

“I was in student council three years. This last year I was vice president of the senior class,” she said. She received the

Film Student of the Year award as a Seton Catholic TV on-air talent and behind the scenes writer and editor. Starting with SCTV her freshman year, as a senior she mentored other students in the class. Wilson said, “I was lucky enough to win that award and that was really cool. It was one of my favorite classes.”

So how did this busy, smart young woman pick the Texas small, liberal arts college? “I visited a couple other schools for softball, and of course academics, but I chose Trinity because I wanted to go to a school that was relatively close to home and wouldn’t be too much of a climate change. I’m not much of a cold weather person, and that was a huge factor for me.

“One of my coaches told me, ‘Pick a school that even if you weren’t going to play softball, you would still love to go to,’ and out of all the schools I looked at, even if you took softball out of the picture, I would still love to attend a school like that.” She explained it’s a small, private school and felt it would be the best fit for her.

As she prepares for her move to San Antonio, Wilson isn’t slowing down. She is playing club softball with her sister, spending time with her family and doing a lot of softball workouts. “My coach from Trinity sent us a program we have to do that requires training three times a week.”

Looking back, Wilson said Seton helped prepare her for this next step in her life. “Seton does a really good job teaching their students how to manage their time.” The focus on studies and getting work done, was a great take-away

Chompie’s Customer Appreciation Day features half-price sliders

Stop by Chompie’s on Customer Appreciation Day Wednesday, July 22, and enjoy half-price Jewish Sliders. Submitted photo

and she said, “I think time management, that is one of the biggest parts of Seton that is going to help me succeed in college.”

Tracy House is a freelancer for SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at news@ santansun.com.

Chompie’s, Arizona’s NY Deli, will hold its sixth annual Customer Appreciation Day, which includes the full regular dining menu, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 22. Rookie and veteran customers can purchase single Jewish sliders for half price. Each person may purchase up to four sliders at $1.99 per slider. Chompie’s awardwinning Jewish sliders consist of homemade challah rolls filled with Chompie’s moist lean brisket, mini potato pancakes and Jack cheese served with a side of brown gravy. Customer Appreciation Day is for dine-in only. It is not valid with promotional gift cards, or with any other offers, discounts or coupons. For more information, visit www. chompies.com.

City brings ‘80s attitude to National Park and Recreation Month

Grab a boom box, group a mullet and break out those parachute pants. Chandler is heading back to the ‘80s in recognition of the 30th anniversary of National Park and Recreation Month.

The month will include 1980s-themed game nights, movies, dance parties, karaoke, an adult prom and more can be had for free or at retro prices this July. It celebrates the enduring contributions parks and recreation make for the quality of life.

“It has been so much fun thinking up events and activities that will transform us back to the days of big hair, neon clothing, crazy fads and some of those classic ‘80s tunes and movies,” said Brooke Peterson, the recreation division’s marketing and communication coordinator. “We are holding activities in our community center, recreation center, aquatic centers and even our Senior Center.”

Each participant attending an ‘80s themed event will be given a card that looks like a cassette tape to fill out for a chance to win one of three park and recreation prize packs. More information and a complete list of events can be found at www.chandleraz.gov/ parksandrecmonth.

Events include:

• Free Friday Flick & Fun Night activities will take place at the Chandler Community Center. On Friday, July 10, “Karate Kid” will be featured, as well as a karate class demo. The following Friday, July 17, “Land Before Time” and a ceramic demo will take place.

“Gremlins” will be shown on Friday, July 24, along with a dance, and arts and crafts demo. A Dance Matrix demo will accompany the movie “The Little Mermaid” on Friday, July 31.

• Tumbleweed Recreation Center will transform a number of group exercise classes into ‘80s-themed workouts in July with Buns of Steel, Jane Fonda Toning and step aerobics. On Throwback Thursday, July 9, an ‘80s-themed game night for youth ages 8 to 16 will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. and on Saturday, July 19, a ZUMBA Dance Party will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• Dress up as your favorite Atomic Comic Superhero and enjoy retro games on deck and in the water from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday, July 13, at Folley Pool. Admission is $1.

• Dress up as your favorite character and enjoy gaming fun on a big screen poolside during Nintendo Night from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, July 14, at Desert Oasis Aquatics Center. Admission is 25 cents for youth and 75 cents for adults.

• Rock poolside to an 1980s rock concert from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 15, at Nozomi Aquatic Center.

• Get wet while watching “Back to the Future,” at a Dive-In Movie from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, July 17, at the Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center. Admission is 25 cents for youth and 75 cents for adults.

• Embarrass your kids with your nostalgia and participate in poolside ‘80s karaoke from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 18, at Hamilton Aquatic Center. Admission is 25 cents for youth and 75 cents for adults.

• Grab your raddest threads and head to the Retro Adult Prom from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, July 24, at Tumbleweed Recreation Center. The prom will include 1980s music, a balloon archway, punch and snacks, plus a large photoframe where participants can pose for pictures. Admission is $5 for residents and $7 for nonresidents.

• For those 55 and older, dig out those leg warmers and start your day with a 1980s Zumba Gold Dance Party from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 29, at the senior center.

Parks and Recreation Month promotes a safe, healthy and affordable recreational environment and is supported nationally by the National Recreation and Park Association, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing park, recreation

and conservation efforts that enhance a quality of life for all people.

For more information, visit www. NPRA.org.

See related community commentary on Page 43.

Cowgirl Jan presents Everyday Heroes at Robson library

Cowgirl Jan presents Everyday Heroes from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday, July 18, at Ed Robson Branch Library, 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. Cowgirl Jan will be sharing a story about “Curious George and the firefighters.” She will help the children celebrate everyday heroes with a special

song and audience participation. Cowgirl Jan will perform magic with the children geared to the hero theme. The program is designed for children ages 3 to 10.

For more information, call (602) 6523000 or www.mcldaz.org.

Fired Pie celebrates second anniversary with deal

It was nearly two years ago that locally owned Fired Pie hit the dining scene. It was the first fast-casual pizza concept to enter the market in metro Phoenix.

On Wednesday, July 15, Fired Pie will celebrate its two-year anniversary by offering buy one entree get one free at all 10 of its Arizona locations. This offer will be available all day during regular business hours. This deal cannot be combined with any other offers or

discounts.

Fired Pie allows the customer to take on the role of chef by picking and choosing their own type of dough, sauce and topping. The sophisticated yet affordable pizzeria also offers build your own salads. The restaurant has locations in Scottsdale, Downtown Phoenix, Glendale, Chandler, Ahwatukee, Phoenix and Tucson. To find a specific location, visit www.firedpie.com.

Perry Branch Library July programs

Perry Branch Library, 1965 E. Queen Creek Rd., Gilbert, is holding a variety of programs throughout the month of July. For a full list of programs visit www. mcldaz.org.

Creative Writing

Local author, Gerri Brooks, will lead a monthly creative writing workshop for beginners to advanced level writers from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, July 8. Note: Bring a notebook to class each week.

The Common Threads Knit and Crochet Club

Join the fellowship of The Common Threads, the Perry knitting and crocheting group and enjoy fun, food and friendship while creating and sharing needlework projects from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursdays July 9 and July 23.

Perry Adult Book Discussion Group

Join the Perry Adult Book Discussion Group each month for a lively discussion of titles by debut authors. This month, the group will discuss “The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics,” by Daniel Brown at 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 27.

Off the Cuff Comedy Improv Show

Off the Cuff Comedy Improv Show will be held from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, July 13. No fooling, celebrate summer reading with Off the Cuff Comedy Troupe. This is an interactive, high-energy, family-friendly show created from audience suggestions.

Rich Ihle’s Reptile Adventure

Rich Ihle’s Reptile Adventures will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 11:05 a.m. Wednesday, July 15. Rich Ihle brings eight different reptiles from around the world that he has raised from babies. He discusses each reptile, how they live, diets and defense mechanisms. The last reptile will be a python that the audience will have the opportunity to touch. No registration is required.

The Peril of Impervious Surfaces

The Peril of Impervious Surfaces will be held from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Monday, July 13. This hands-on program is designed for children in grades 5 and 6 and requires registration. Through hands-on experiments, participants will work in teams to create an urban runoff model. They will explore the speed and volume of storm water runoff in rural and urban areas. Further experimentation will lead to solutions to help prevent urban flooding and prevent storm water pollution.

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 religious-related events.

Action Networkers: Business Networking International 11:30 a.m.-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 Hospital, Morrison Building, Learning Resource Room 1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Mindy, (602) 528-0545, ext. 201

jewelry supply company from 1993 to 2014 in Freeport, Maine. In the summer of 2004, she boosted her inventory by purchasing more than 40,000 pounds of vintage Lucite beads, components and oddball shapes from a Rhode Island warehouse.

It was a quick lesson in forklifts, pallets and trucking companies. Nevertheless, DeSimone was thrilled with the additions, particularly because the parts were from the 1960s through 1980s.

“It was like a time capsule,” she said. “It was stuff that had been sitting there since ’82.”

DeSimone sold the beads for years before she and husband, Chris, decided they would move the family to Arizona. Still, when they arrived in the Grand Canyon State, there were pieces that many wouldn’t consider

workable because they didn’t have holes.

Chris, a local handyman, fashioned a machine to punch holes in Lucite for her. The company—dubbed as such after her mother and a family name—has been a godsend, as has her move.

DeSimone has displayed her jewelry at the Scottsdale Artisan Market as well as the Gilbert Art Walk. She now splits her time between Chandler and Maine.

“I love Arizona, more than I love Maine,” she said. “It’s fresh and fun. But (my career) makes for a steady income. Having a presence in both is great.”

For more information, visit www. leetielovendale.com.

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski is the executive editor of the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at christina@santansun.com.

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.-9:30 a.m. Wednesdays Chompie’s

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

Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter, Gilbert 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. first and third Fridays of each month Support group for caregivers of people with dementia. Free and no preregistration required.

First United Methodist Church of Gilbert 331 S. Cooper Rd., Gilbert Info: Mindy, (602) 528-0545, ext. 201

American Cancer Society: Look Good Feel Better 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Monday, June 8 For cancer patients. Free; registration required Ironwood Cancer & Recreation Centers 8880 E. Desert Cove Ave., Scottsdale Info: Sandra Surgeon (480) 855-2224, www.ironwoodcrc.com

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

American Society of Women Accountants, Mesa East Valley Chapter

5:30 p.m. fourth Tuesday of each month

Nonprofit organization holds monthly networking and educational sessions for women in accounting.

Landmark Restaurant

809 W. Main St., Mesa Info: Shelby, (602) 430-8834, www.aswa-mev.org

Arizona Business Connection Networking Group

7 a.m.-8:30 a.m. Wednesdays

Networking/referral group holds weekly breakfast meetings with member presentations and marketing training sessions. Guests are free. Call in advance.

Dobson Ranch Golf Course Restaurant 2155 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa Info: Danny, (602) 363-0147, Danny. Balanon@RealLiving.com

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.-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

Business Referral Exchange Worldwide (BREW)

12 p.m.-1:30 p.m. first and third Thursdays of the month

Industry-specific referral and networking group.

Dobson Ranch Inn

1666 S. Country Club Dr., Mesa

Info: Jeremy McClymonds, (480) 444-2228, www.BREWus.com

Build Your Own Business: Chandler

8 a.m. first and third Thursdays of each month

East Valley networking and referral organization, meets in Ahwatukee at a private location; address will be provided upon contact.

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

Cancer Caregiver Support GroupChandler

10 a.m.-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

Caregivers Support Group-Mesa

6 p.m.-8 p.m. first Thursday of each month

Support group for caregivers of people with cancer. Free, no preregistration required.

Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers

6111 E. Arbor Ave., Mesa Info: Kelly, (480) 340-4013, www.ironwoodcrc.com

Caregiver Support Group

10 a.m.-12 p.m. Saturday, June 6

Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers

8880 E. Desert Cove Ave., Scottsdale Info: Kelly, (480) 340-4013, www.ironwoodcrc.com

Chair Yoga Class-Chandler

10 a.m.-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

Chair Yoga Class-Scottsdale

1 p.m.-2 p.m. Friday, June 12

Ironwood Cancer & Research Center

8880 E. Desert Cove Ave., Scottsdale Info: Kelly, (480) 340-4013 or ironwoodcrc.com

Chair Yoga Class-Gilbert

10 a.m.-11 a.m. second and fourth Tuesdays of each month

Free, no preregistration required

Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers

3686 S. Rome St., Gilbert Info: Kelly, (480) 340-4013, www.ironwoodcrc.com

Chandler Airport Commission

7 p.m. second Wednesday of each month

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

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

Chandler Business Alliance

7:30 a.m.-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

Chandler Farmers Market

3 p.m.-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 Lions Club

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

Fire department training

Fire crews from Chandler, Sun Lakes and Maricopa participated in a joint training exercise on June 24. The three fire departments practiced fighting fires in strip malls and shopping plazas, and rescuing potential victims trapped in the fire. The crews battled flames while navigating a maze of rooms meant to simulate the inside of businesses and strip malls. STSN photos by Tiera Allen

A firefighter “rescues” a dummy to reproduce a rescue procedure.