SanTan Sun; 08-01-15: Neighbors

Neighbors

Deli owners bring something deliciously different to Chandler

BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

Carlo and Emilie’s Gourmet Deli is the culmination of a friendship that blossomed into a tasty and successful business. Carlo Ventura and Emilie Frances put their culinary, business and management knowledge together to create a deliciously different kind of deli.

Ventura and Frances met when he was working as a manager at Bernard’s at Ocotillo Golf Resort.

“Because he spoke French, we became friends,” explained Frances who hails from the European country. “Then he introduced my mom to my stepdad and they got married and my stepdad is the third partner here.”

the 1970s.

“I was asked to do something and I thought it would be good to do a deli,”

Ventura said. “We have similar types of foods where we are from originally— tomatoes, peppers, fish.

Although Ventura is Italian and Frances is French, the duo saw potential in opening a business. Ventura’s experience includes working in the hotel and restaurant industries in Italy, Germany and France prior to coming to the United States in

Carlo and Emilie’s Gourmet Deli opened in December and it quickly made its mark as a restaurant with a unique menu variety.

Sandwiches include prosciutto with hard salami and asiago, smoked turkey with asiago and soppressata, prosciutto and asiago. Hot sandwiches boast Ventura’s meatballs made fresh daily, chicken pesto, beef braciole and veal and eggplant parmigiana.

“We do a lot of orders to-go, especially in the evening—more so pastas than sandwiches,” Ventura said.

“I make my own sausages, my own pasta sauces and some of my own desserts including carrot cake, tiramisu, Italian cheesecake, the filling for the

Local woman honored as Champion for Young Children

BY ALISON STANTON

As a single parent, Catherine Arvizu knows how challenging it can be to make ends meet.

She also understands how crucial it is to raise children who possess key life skills like perseverance and motivation.

“It’s so important for kids to learn critical thinking skills. When my kids would ask me, ‘What is 10 plus 10?’ I would say, ‘Let’s think about it.’ They’d get so mad at me, but this helped them learn how to teach themselves,” she said.

Three years ago, Arvizu began volunteering with First Things First—a voter-

created, statewide organization that funds early education and health programs to help children be successful once they enter kindergarten—by sharing information about the importance of early childhood and the work of First Things First’s community partners.

Arvizu, who is the business banker vice president at the National Bank of Arizona in Mesa, also volunteers teaching basic financial courses to children and adults in Chandler and other parts of the East Valley.

Recently, Arvizu, who lives in Ahwatukee, was recognized by First Things First as a 2015

El Palacio, Euro Café staff compete in Chef Off

BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

Chefs Anthony Serrano of Chandler’s El Palacio and Romeo Taus of Romeo’s Euro Café in Gilbert will go head to head in the Chef Off Southwest Standoff at 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 3, at El Palacio.

At the event, attendees will taste the two chefs’ entrees without knowing the creator’s identity. Afterward, they will be asked to vote for their favorite dishes. The theme of the entrees is pork with a Southwestern flair.

“We’ve never done a Mexican restaurant for Chef Off because most of them are not on the cutting edge of the culinary field,” said Taus, who started the event with fellow chefs John Wong of SN Asian Kitchen in Gilbert, and Lori Hassler formerly of Radda Caffe-Bar in Scottsdale.

“When I saw what Anthony was doing, I thought that he would be great. We shook hands and here we are.”

As for Serrano, he said he’s looking forward to the event because he thought it would be fun.

The meals will be paired with beer from The Perch.

“The Perch is a neighbor of ours and we thought it would be fun for all three of us to pair up,” Serrano said. “We’ve done a lot of beer dinners here at El Palacio but we’ve never done collaboration like this. It should be exciting.”

The winner will challenge The Perch’s chef this fall.

Tickets for the Aug. 3 Chef Off are $55 and seats are still available. To make a reservation, call (480) 802-5770 or visit online at www.epfamilyrestaurants.com. El Palacio is located at 2950 E. Germann Rd., Chandler.

Creativity served here

The competition is designed to give

Brett Epstein to play in Maccabi games

BY TRACY HOUSE

Brett Epstein’s lifetime love of soccer has been rewarded with a prestigious invitation to play for Team USA at the Pan American Maccabi Games 2015 in Santiago, Chile, in December.

The Pan American Maccabi Games 2015 are a celebration of Jewish unity, culture and heritage through athletic competition. Epstein, 46, said he is

honored to be part of Team USA’s 45-andolder team.

“They really treat it like the Olympics,” he explained. “There’s an opening ceremony where you march in by country. I was told to go online and find American flag pins and shirts and hats, because people are always trading things.”

While he’s officially a member of

cannoli and I make my own fresh bread every day. For sandwiches, there are two types of bread that I make—two different hoagie breads—one is sun-dried tomato with my own homemade pesto and then the other is a regular hoagie. Eventually, I will also make my own pasta.”

A point of pride for Ventura is the variety of pasta sauces that he crafts. Available sauces include puttanesca, pesto, alfredo, Bolognese, tomato and fresh sage with browned butter. Ventura said the butternut squash ravioli as the most requested pasta. The tomato and fresh sage with browned butter is usually the sauce of choice for that pasta.

“Everybody in Italy has these kinds

of pasta sauces but most of the things that I do are very traditional. I love the tradition and these sauces have been around forever,” Ventura said.

Homemade soups include chicken with fresh vegetables and wild rice, potato, squash soup, beef soup, Italian wedding soup and on Fridays the deli makes lobster bisque.

“Customers know that every Friday we have lobster bisque and they fight for the lobster bisque,” Frances added. “Carlo makes it fresh every Friday and that’s why it’s so good.”

The duo works together well and they enjoy the strengths that each brings to the business. They don’t agree on everything.

“There’s something every once in a

while—you have to be honest about it. The difference of ages is not so easy because I’m stubborn and Emilie, she’s also stubborn,” said Ventura with a laugh while Frances nodded in agreement.

“But we get along very well and we have a very good work relationship and it’s important that we respect each other.”

Running the deli gives Frances and Ventura the opportunity to get to know their guests.

“I love people—that’s the main thing. I love people and I love to see people. I’ve been doing this for so long and I cannot be without people,” Ventura stated.

Frances added, “I’m enjoying cooking and I like being at the register, also, to see people’s reaction when they get their food and say, ‘Oh, wow that is huge.’ I love

that. It’s so amazing and it makes me feel good.”

Carlo and Emilie’s Gourmet Deli offers delivery within Chandler as well as catering Valleywide. Carlo and Emilie’s Gourmet Deli is located at 2040 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 12. Visit www. gourmetdelichandler.com or call (480) 786-4019 for additional information. The deli is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday and Tuesday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

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

has its own thing going on so we’re looking at Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, absolutely Gilbert, Queen Creek and Apache Junction,” he said.

“We’ll challenge some more chefs and I think it’s a great event in support of chef-driven kitchens.”

Serrano is ready for a little friendly competition.

“Romeo is a great chef and I’m looking at this as practice for the World Food Championship in Florida in November,” said Serrano, who will travel to the renowned global food competition in Florida in early November.

“I love Romeo but he’s definitely going down.”

Taus responded with, “I love trash talking, absolutely...I can understand that this is what Anthony does and this is his own kitchen and people are used to a certain taste, but I wouldn’t count the silverback Romanian out,” incited Taus.

Champion for Young Children in the East Maricopa Region.

“The Regional Champion for Young Children award is given to a local champion who actively volunteers their time to support and raise public awareness of early childhood development and health in our community,” said Franklin R. Narducci, East Maricopa council chairman for First Things First, and assistant superintendent of the Chandler Unified School District.

“As an educator, I see every day that a child’s early experiences build a strong foundation for later success in school and life. I’m so grateful that champions like Catherine Arvizu are devoted to helping more people hear this important message.”

When she found out she was being recognized as a Champion for Young Children, Arvizu said she was very moved.

“I have no idea how it happened, but I was very honored and very humbled to receive the award.”

A Chandler resident, Narducci said that as a prominent business leader, Arvizu has also helped reach out to stakeholders in support of young children.

“She has connected First Things First with many community leaders and organizations, including Aid to Women Center and a local attorney who now keeps early childhood information in his office to share with families,” he said.

someone who works with children, she enjoys telling them about the work that First Things First does.

“Whenever I’m out and about I always talk about them,” she said.

Arvizu especially enjoys teaching the basic financial courses, which are focused on the Latino community.

“I don’t teach the courses based on my experience as a banker, but on my life experience. I know what it’s like to budget and barely have enough to make ends meet,” she said.

chefs a creative way to compete and show off their culinary skills. When he schedules the events, he sticks with the Chef Off motto: “Keep it local, keep it tasty and keep it fun.”

“We just want to keep it local—the Southeast Valley. Scottsdale usually

“I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve.”

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

“In addition, Catherine has been instrumental in ensuring that early childhood professionals are invited to attend events such as the Arizona Leadership conference.”

Arvizu said that every time she meets

“After I’m done teaching the financial courses, people will thank me and say how much hope I’ve given them. To me, that’s all that matters.”

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

KatyBug Faye Boutique, located at 4970 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite C-1 in Chandler, opened a nonprofit boutique named KatyBug’s Closet, at 7131 W. Ray Rd., Suite 39, in Chandler. The benefit boutique is filled with stylish overstocks, returns, one-of-a-kinds and second chance designer treasurers all under $20.

Profits from the sales will go toward Chandler charities.

The effort was inspired by a free backto-school boutique the business helped host for at-risk teens in Chandler. It was so inspiring that the owners of KatyBug Faye Boutique wanted to continue with it going forward. The goal is to make the free back-to-school boutique an annual event with the idea to add a free holiday boutique as well.

Both of the boutiques are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through

NOWSELLING

Zesty summer menu items at Z’Tejas

Stop by any of the five Z’Tejas

Southwestern Grill Valley locations through Sunday, Aug. 23, and try the special custom summer menu filled with slow-cooked pork ribs, craft cocktails and bananas foster beignets.

The menu includes:

• Appetizer: pig wings—pork shanks, chipotle prickly pear sauce and sweet and sour slaw;

• Entree: Navajo taco—crispy kale, green chile rice, black beans, handcrafted Navajo taco shell. Choice of adding roasted shrimp or pork;

• Entree: slow-cooked pork ribs—hickory barbecue sauce, sweet and sour slaw;

• Entree: sun-dried tomato pesto salmon— roasted red pepper aioli, wilted spinach and roasted cauliflower;

• Dessert: bananas foster beignets—cream cheese, whipped cream and vanilla ice cream.

Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill is offering a custom menu filled with items that will tempt the taste buds. Submitted photo

the team, Epstein is responsible for expenses—from travel to hotel, uniform to meals. He paid for the trips to New Jersey, Las Vegas and Indiana, and now hopes to raise money to get to Chile. Epstein needs to raise $6,600 to fund his trip; he’s halfway to his goal.

To help Epstein go to Santiago, Chile, visit http://support.maccabiusa.com/ goto/brett. For more information about Maccabi USA go to www.maccabiusa.com.

It’s been a long road to make the team, but Epstein is excited about the privilege. He tried out for the national team in October 2014 in New Jersey.

“There’s a fair amount of guys on the team from back East,” Epstein said.

He is humble about being one of only 22 men from across the nation on the roster. Epstein is the only Arizonan to make the team.

The Chandler location is at 7221 W. Ray Rd. For more information, visit www.ZTejas. com or call (480) 377-1170.

Blackberry bourbon lemonade, which includes blackberries, Jim Beam, Chambord, lemonade and ginger beer, as well as summertime sangria with peach Schnapps, Tuaca, fresh fruit and cabernet, are also available.

Dia De Los Muertos Celebration set for November

The second annual Dia De Los Muertos Celebration will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov.

1, at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park located at 3 S. Arizona Ave.

The Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday celebrated throughout Mexico and acknowledged around the world in other

cultures. The holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for, and celebrate the lives of the dead through altars, music and song. For sponsorship opportunities, call Si Se Puede Foundation at (480) 310-2018.

His love of soccer started at an early age. Epstein play as a child and continued in high school as well as college in New York. He now plays on a men’s league in Scottsdale. Last year, he was encouraged by a teammate to try out for the Maccabi team.

“He said, ‘You should definitely try out. I think you’d love the experience. You’ll definitely make the team.’ He put me in touch with the coach in Indiana.”

Following the October tryout, Epstein traveled to Las Vegas in January for the next round. Officials announced in February that he was selected for the team, and just a month later Epstein traveled to Indiana for team camp. A versatile player, he was told he would play wherever the team needs him.

“Except goalie,” he said. “No goalie.”

Epstein moved to Chandler in 1994 and taught at Kyrene’s Pueblo Middle School. In his eighth year with the Chandler Unified School District, he worked as the assistant principal at Payne Junior High School, and is now with Willis Junior High School. His kids, Zach, 16, and Hannah, 14, attend Hamilton High School. They are active in soccer as well, competing in tournaments on the weekends.

“I tried to tell them they don’t have to play because of me, but they didn’t listen,” he said.

Epstein strives to be active in the community.

“I have my national coach’s license. I coach with (San Tan) Legacy, a local club in Chandler. I’m on their board (as the Legacy boys commissioner). I’m also the director of the academy program for 4 to 7 year olds. As a coach, I’ve coached every age group.”

He’s passionate about the game.

“My life is pretty much work and soccer,” Epstein said.

Preparing for games

Epstein works out at The Pitt, watches his diet, and tries to stay healthy and ready for games.

“I work out five days a week, before work,” he said.

To prepare for the competition, Epstein has added speed work to his workout.

“I’m on the field three nights a week coaching soccer,” he said.

“I try to touch the ball as much as I can.”

He will coach two boys teams this fall for Legacy, 9 to 11 year olds. Beginning in September, he’ll play on a men’s league in Scottsdale. Team USA will next assemble in October in Casa Grande for the Soccer in the Sun, Columbus Day Tournament.

At the international games, depending on the schedule, Team USA has the opportunity to play against 19 other countries in Chile.

“It’s a dream,” he said. “There won’t be 50,000 screaming fans, but putting on the jersey that says USA and representing” is amazing, he said.

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

Shining some sunlight on vitamin D deficiencies

BY DR. PENNY BOWEN, EVDI MEDICAL IMAGING

It is summertime again, and Arizonans are keeping cool and protecting themselves from the sun by staying in the shade and slathering on sunscreen. While these are important steps to take to avoid the threats of heat stroke and skin cancer, many of us may be missing out on an important nutrient—vitamin D. Experts say that being outside for just 10 minutes can provide the daily recommended intake of vitamin D created naturally by our bodies in reaction to sun exposure. An essential nutrient for strong bone formation, those 10 minutes go a long way to helping maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorous to support healthy bones.

We see more than 300 days of sunshine each year in Arizona providing ample opportunities to soak up a few

rays. Surprisingly, we’re still at risk for vitamin D deficiency because our climate, especially in the summer months, can make it too difficult to spend quality time outdoors. At EVDI Medical Imaging, I’ve recently seen several patients with suspected deficiencies and it’s certainly not uncommon; the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), estimates that 32 percent of children and adults in the United States are vitamin D deficient.

The symptoms of a deficiency often go unnoticed because they can be very subtle. Discreet signs like joint or bone pain and muscle weakness, or even cognitive impairment in adults can be associated with vitamin D deficiency. If you think you might be at risk, a simple blood test from your doctor is the fastest way to determine your levels.

Luckily, you can also be proactive about getting the daily recommended

Red Cross urges blood donations

The American Red Cross urges eligible donors to give blood in August and help meet the continual need for blood products. Every 2 seconds someone in the United States needs blood.

Summer is an especially difficult time to collect enough blood to meet the needs of hospital patients. Despite travel and other activities that may cause some donors to be less available to give, the Red Cross must collect 15,000 blood donations every day to meet the needs of patients at approximately 2,600 hospitals and transfusion centers across the county.

With more summer days ahead, every blood donation is important in helping ensure blood is available for patients in need, and volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those who need it.

Donors of all blood types—especially those with AB, O negative, A negative and B negative—are needed to help ensure blood products are available to hospital patients this summer.

A blood donor card or driver license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years old of age, weigh at least 110 pounds

1,000 to 2,000 international units (IUs). The following are just a few ideas to incorporate additional vitamin D into your diet while avoiding the harsh heat:

• Fatty Fish: Rich in vitamin D, fatty fish such as salmon, trout and tuna contain as much as 450 IUs.

• Eggs: One of the easier ways to consume the nutrient, egg yolks contain 40 IUs.

• Fortified dairy, juices and grains: While these products do not naturally contain vitamin D, many companies are fortifying these foods to improve access to the nutrient.

• Supplements: For those who are severely deficient, supplements are available at any drug store in doses with as much as 4,000 IUs.

While vitamin D deficiency is more common than we may think, there are several easy ways to make sure you’re

and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

The upcoming opportunities to donate blood in Chandler are:

• Harley Davidson, 6895 W. Chandler Blvd., from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1;

• INTEL Building CH11, 6505 W. Chandler Blvd., from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11;

• INTEL Building OC, 4500 S. Dobson Rd., from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12;

• Chandler Gilbert Family YMCA, 1655 W. Frye Rd., from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12;

meeting the recommended dose. Be sure to talk with your doctor about your lifestyle and diet to determine the best approach to staying healthy and maintaining strong bones.

Dr. Penny Bowen is a musculoskeletal radiologist at EVDI Medical Imaging, the Valley’s leading diagnostic imaging service. EVDI’s Chandler Imaging Center is located at 1076 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. Call (480) 393-3700 to make an appointment. For more information on EVDI and its other East Valley locations, visit www.evdi.com.

• INTEL Building CH5, CH6, 5000 W. Chandler Blvd., from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13. To make an appointment to give blood, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit www.redcrossblood.org or call (800) 733-2767.

David Newton, who has worked for 10 years as sommelier and restaurateur of D’Vine Bistro & Wine Bar, will be teaching “Wine 102: Wines and Wine Pairing” Aug. 6 at the Ed Robson Library. Submitted photo

Study wine at the Ed Robson Library Aug. 6

BY TAMARA JUAREZ

Oenophiles rejoice: The Ed Robson Library is continuing its original wine series from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, with a special lecture on the art of wine as well as pairing it with food.

“Wine 102: Wines and Wine Pairing” will offer Chandler residents the opportunity to acquire an expert’s view of wine and connect with other wine lovers from around the Valley.

David Newton, lead sommelier for

D’Vine Bistro & Wine Bar in Mesa and Chandler, will guide participants through the key components of wine, structure of wine varietals, wine styles and appropriate pairings during this two-hour free event.

“We look to provide programs with artistic, cultural and educational value that would be of wide interest to the community,” said Patty Dennehy, library paraprofessional for the Maricopa County Library District.

“We have had David at the Ed Robson Library once in the past to teach Wine 101, and that threw in 70 to 80 people… It shows that our community is very interested in music, history and a wide diversity of programs.”

“Wine 102: Wine and Wine Pairing” will go beyond wine history taught in Wine 101, and allow patrons to explore the flexibility and countless variations of wine. Alcoholic beverages will not be on the menu for the evening. Newton guarantees an informative and entertaining presentation that will not only boost wine knowledge but also enhance participants’ overall experience when they next drink a glass of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay or Sancerre.

“There are experiences with food and wine that you can only have when the two are paired together,” said Newton, also the creator and producer of Selling Wine Like a Pro, a website for restaurants owners, servers and bartenders seeking to increase wine sales.

“It is like a melody and harmony, and I try to express that when I teach.”

By completing “Wine 102,” Newton hopes people will feel confident enough to plan their own night of wine tasting and impress friends and family with extensive facts and insight.

The Ed Robson Library is located at 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. For more information about “Wine 102: Wines and Wine Pairing,” call (602) 652-3000 or visit www.mcldaz.org

Tamara Juarez is an intern for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at tamara@santansun.com.

Makes

Summer blood donor to earn a 2015 Volkswagen Golf

United Blood Services donors are automatically being entered to win a 2015 VW Golf donated by the Valley Volkswagen dealers. Ten summer blood donors will be drawn as finalists to participate in the grand prize drawing. For a blood donation appointment, call (877) 827-4376, or visit www.bloodhero. com.

The East Valley public blood drives include:

• Avnet Logistics, 60 S. McKemy Ave., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6;

• Fry’s No. 37 Helping Hands, 981 W. Elliot Rd., from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12;

• Health Source of Chandler South, 1445 S. Arizona Ave., from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug 18;

• Heathways, 1445 S. Spectrum Blvd., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20;

• AZ Compass Prep School, 2020 N. Arizona Ave., from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27;

• City of Chandler, 250 E. Chicago St., from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 31

HealthSouth East Valley Rehabilitation Hospital offers experience that comes from working with patients in the East Valley community for 6 years. Our professional rehabilitation teams have helped our hospital earn recognition by The Joint Commission, offering patients and their families a higher level of rehabilitative care. When you need a rehabilitation provider, choose experienced care that makes a real difference. Call 480 567-0350 to learn more.

Mr. Pineapple available year round

SanTan Brewing Company’s most popular seasonal beer, Mr. Pineapple Wheat Beer has taken the industry by storm since it first entered the market in 2010.

In 2011, Mr. Pineapple traveled to Denver and took home a silver medal at the Great American Beer Festival followed by winning numerous local awards, including the title of best local beer by Phoenix New Times and the Arizona Republic. Mr. Pineapple is ranked as Arizona’s No. 1 locally made seasonal. Originally created as a signature craft beer for SanTan Brewing Company’s annual Luau celebration, Mr. Pineapple’s popularity among craft beer lovers grew rapidly in his first few years of production. So, it should come as no surprise to fans of this deliciously refreshing southwestern style ale that SanTan Brewing Company will now brew, can and tap Mr. Pineapple year round.

Arizona’s newest permanent resident, Mr. Pineapple, is brewed with Rainforest Alliance certified pineapple juice for a more sustainable; socially conscious and tasty can of craft beer. Mr. Pineapple is a refreshing and fruity traditional wheat ale. Fresh pineapple is

added during the primary fermentation then crushed and cooled to allow the natural flavors to infuse the traditional wheat beer for a refreshing twist. Visit www.SanTanBeerFinder.com to find locations.

Sip, Soak and Splash at Sheraton Wild Horse Pass

Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa is offering one last summer escape. Offered at $139 per night for stays from Friday, Sept. 4, through Mon., Sept. 7, the “Sip, Soak and Splash” package includes accommodations in a luxurious guestroom and a total of four wristbands granting entrance for two children and two adults into the resort’s Soak and Splash water lawn.

The family fun begins on Friday, Sept. 4, with Adventure Club games every hour and an Indoor Bounce House from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The fun continues with the “Sip, Soak and Splash” events on Saturday, Sept. 5, and Sunday, Sept. 6, on the resort’s Hemapik Lawn and includes a 22foot dual slip and slide, multiple sizes of inflatable water slides for kids of all ages, a dunk tank and much more. All guests on the VIP package will be given four specialty wristbands at check-in, which they will be required to wear for entrance at the checkpoint on Hemapik Lawn on Saturday and Sunday.

Make sure to pack neon attire for the “Glow Party” from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday on Hamapik Lawn. It will feature live DJ entertainment, bubble machines, glow sticks and a barbecue grill station. Spring into a good time at the Bounce Party Saturday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the air-conditioned comfort of Akimel Ballroom complete with various inflatable bounce house, face painters, live DJ entertainment, bubble machines

and family-friendly food items available for sale at the kid-zone concession stand, as well as the adult beer garden. Join everyone for S’mores and Song around the resort’s fire pit on Friday and Saturday nights, or cool off at Cinema Splash on Saturday and Sunday nights. Enjoy some good old-fashioned family fun with a favorite outdoor games including, bocce, life-sized Jenga and corn hole.

Other distinctive experiences happening Friday through Sunday include participating in the Native American culturally themed courses such as ancient Chemeith bread making sessions, jewelry making courses, gourd painting or canvas and cocktails.

Poolside entertainment will be provided by Rock Lobster on Saturday and Nineball on Sunday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

To reserve the weekend experience of “Sip, Soak and Splash,” call (866) 837-4156 and mention rate plan LABOR15 or visit www.wildhorsepassresort.com/summer. Reservations are required. This special promotion is available for $139 per night. All rates are exclusive of tax, gratitude and resort service change. A credit card guarantee is required at the time of booking and requires a 48-hour cancellation notice, with a one night penalty.

San Tan Mountain Regional Park summer activities set

A plethora of activities and programs are scheduled in August and September at San Tan Mountain Regional Park for the entire family to enjoy.

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 closedtoed shoes. Bring a flashlight, scorpion light and plenty of water. Meet at the flag pole at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8.

All about Jaguars

These beautiful and elusive felines once roamed much of Arizona, but were nearly wiped out 100 years ago. Explore the issues that surround these big cats and the conservation efforts to bring the jaguar back to Arizona Friday, Aug. 21. Meet inside the Nature Center.

Animal Spotlighting

Join staff as attendees investigate

where the animals are inside the park by looking and listening for their clues. Bring flashlights, wear closed-toed shoes and bring plenty of water. Meet at the main trailhead area at 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21.

Homeschool: Monsoon Madness

Monsoons in the Sonoran Desert are spectacular events that include torrential downpours, haboobs and intense lightning shows. Join staff at 9 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 27, for some fun activities while learning everything about monsoons. The program offers art projects and silly science experiments, as well as how to stay safe during the powerful rainstorms.

Some material may not be age appropriate for children under the age of 8. School-aged children are welcome. Meet in the Nature Center.

Full Red Moon Hike

Join others as they hike under the light of the full red moon; as the moon rises it appears reddish through any haze. Attendees will listen for wildlife as they meander the family-friendly 2.2-mile trail. Wear closed-toed shoes, bring water and dress comfortably. Meet at the main

East Valley Clinic Gives New Hope for Back Pain

East Valley clinic provides solution for Sciatica pain sufferers

(Chandler, AZ} Neuromodulation. It’s a big word for a big step forward in the treatment of chronic back pain, particularly for those who’ve not found relief from back surgery.

WIth the arrival of Summer, 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.

More than a third of back surgeries fail to relieve pain for more than five years. These Failed Back Surgery Syndrome patients can now be effectively treated with a concept called neuromodulation available at Novocur Pain Management Clinic.

A small electrical current is directed at the pain relay centers of the spinal cord, replacing severe pain with a pleasant sensation of vibration. It’s as though

the nervous system is being tricked into feeling something other than the pain. The implantable device that delivers the stimulation is called a spinal cord implant stimulator.

Mark Anderson, a patient who’d tried back surgery twice, says this treatment has changed his life: “It seemed like I’d run out of options to stop my pain, but now I’m on the move all the time pain free.”

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.”

Neuromodulation has also proven to be effective for other pain problems such as intractable chronic migraines, sciatic leg pain, peripheral neuropathy along with failed back surgery syndrome.

Epidural injections are one of the most effective 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.

Novocur’s president and CEO Dr. Alex Bigham says, “We’re very proud to be at the forefront in using advanced techniques for a wide variety of pain problems. From head to toe, we offer effective treatments for chronic pain. Details about neuromodulation and other methods for pain relief are available at novocur.com or by calling (480) 855-6686.

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

trailhead area at 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29.

Nathan Marten Memorial

Join the San Tan Shredders for a beginner’s ride where attendees will learn some basic skills that every aspiring mountain biker should know. The program will cover topics ranging from proper riding position to braking and how to navigate uphill and downhill climbs. A helmet is required for safety seasons. Bring plenty of water and an extra tube. All riding abilities welcome. Meet at the main trailhead west of the Visitor Center at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 6.

Desert Walk ‘n’ Talk

Join park host Robert for an easy 1-mile walk and talk program about the beautiful desert at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8. Attendees will learn how to identify plants while learning some interesting facts. Such questions as how to identify a cholla cactus, do cholla cactus really jump and how many seeds do saguaros produce and why don’t people see more of them will be answered. Meet Robert at the flag pole and bring extra water and wear closed-toed shoes.

Just for Kids: Volcanoes

Let’s take a journey to the center of the earth as everyone explores volcanoes at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 12. Attendees will learn some amazing facts about the mountains, as well as some fascinating stories about Arizona’s volcanic past. Attendees will also have a little fun making an oozy goopy mess with an epic eruption. Meet inside the Nature Center.

Full Harvest Moon Hike

The Harvest Moon occurs before the fall equinox. In the days before light bulbs, farmers relied on the moonlight to help them harvest their crops, allowing them to work well into the evening. It’s also at this time the moon appears as a giant pumpkin ascending above the horizon. Attendees will be hiking an easy-moderate 2.2-mile loop trail at 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26. Wear closed-toed shoes, bring water and a camera and meet at the main trailhead area.

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.

SanTan Brewing Oktoberfest scheduled for Oct. 3

Professionally produced by HDE Agency and presented by Bashas’, the eighth annual SanTan Brewing Oktoberfest is scheduled for the streets of downtown Chandler from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3.

Celebrated since 1810, Oktoberfest is an annual tradition filled with an abundance of wurstl, craft beer and good times celebrating Bavarian culture. For the celebration, SanTan Brewing Company is bringing in Matisyahu, Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers and a local polka band to perform on the new downtown Chandler entertainment stage. No Oktoberfest celebration would be

complete without beer. The SanTan Brewing Oktoberfest will feature a Bavarian-style beer garden where thirsty patrons will enjoy SanTan’s Oktoberfest lager. Oktoberfest is a traditional German lager boasting a toasty strong malt profile with a clean and crisp lager flavor, ABV 5.5 percent. SanTan will also pour their core beers and other seasonal offerings.

Other highlights include a beer pong tournament, bag toss, the buddy carry, wiener dog races, keg stacking, tricycle races and a brat eating contest. The festival will be located in Dr. A.J. Chandler Park across from SanTan Brewing Company at 3

S. Arizona Pl., Chandler. Presale general admission tickets are on sale for $12 online at www. santanoktoberfest.com or at SanTan Brewing Company. Kids 12 and younger are admitted for free with a paid adult. Day of general admission will be $15. For the first time, VIP tickets are available for $75 online, with limited availability. VIP admission is for patrons 21 and older and includes catered food from SanTan Brewing, six beers, private seating area, private restrooms and exclusive stage viewing access. Also, starting Sept. 1, presale tickets will be available for $10 at all Valley Bashas’ locations.

Stay tuned to the SanTan Brewing Oktoberfest page at www.facebook. com/santanoktoberfest for more details, upcoming entertainment announcements and chances to win tickets.

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, visit www.sjwjobs.org.

Meet the creatures

Lisa’s Creatures thrilled the crowd of children at the Environmental Education Center during their recent visit. Lisa Limbert, the woman behind the organization, had a variety of creatures with her, ranging from cute bunnies to a white ferret. Kids at the event had the opportunity to pet and snuggle with the animals.

STSN photo by Tim Sealy