SanTan Sun; 08-15-15: Neighbors

Neighbors

Sunset Library to host Fall Seed Swap

BY ALISON STANTON

Gardeners of all ages and abilities can share seeds and tips during the free Fall Seed Swap at the Sunset Library on Monday, Aug. 24. The event gives also gives neighbors the opportunity to meet local gardeners and exchange tips from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

“We have several local gardening organizations that come in and set up tables and people also bring in tons of seeds that they can swap or give away and sometimes people have planted their gardens and have an abundance of seed starts so they bring those, too,” said librarian Lindsay Atwood.

“It’s a really fun and interactive event.”

Sunset Library began hosting the seed swaps in the fall 2011. The first one was so popular, Atwood said, the library has continued to offer two seed swaps a year, one in the spring and one in the fall.

Although it’s hard to predict exactly what types of seeds people will share, Atwood said she expects to see plenty of choices from the lettuce family, including lettuce, cabbage, kale, mustard greens, chard and spinach.

“Other seeds that will probably be available are onions, garlic, green onions, leeks, carrots, peas and all kinds of herbs,” Atwood said. “There are also often sunflowers and other wildflowers and loofah seeds, which turn into the big loofahs you use in the shower.”

The seed swap is not specifically geared for kids, but Atwood said all ages are welcome to attend the event.

“The gardeners who come are very friendly and people can talk to others who like to garden and share the best practices,”

Atwood said.

Anyone can attend, even those who don’t have seeds to share or swap.

“It’s a very giving community and they love to share resources.”

Black Bear Diner coming to Chandler

BY TAMARA JUAREZ

Black Bear Diner, the California-based franchise famous for its homestyle recipes and bear-themed design, will soon open its fourth Valley restaurant at Las Tiendas Shopping Center at Alma School and Queen Creek roads in Chandler.

Over the past 20 years, Black Bear Diner has gained national recognition for friendly service and its wide selection of allAmerican classics such as savory housemade meatloaf made from seasoned ground beef and sausage, chicken fried steak smothered in country gravy, and cinnamon apple cream pie crowned with brown sugar oats and whipped cream.

“We believe that timeless values like quality and personal service are still very

Centenarian still bowling strikes

BY TRACY HOUSE

At 100 years old, Vern Nelson can still bowl a pretty respectable game. The centenarian averages 140 a game in the summer senior league at Brunswick Kyrene Lanes in Chandler.

Vern and his son, David, both of whom are Sun Lakes residents, have been bowling in the Tuesday morning league for several years. It’s a hobby that Vern has indulged in since he was about 18 years.

“There were about 20 years I didn’t bowl,” Vern quickl added.

Vern, who turns 101 in September, uses the activity to keep busy and to escape the doldrums of home. But

it’s more than that to him. He takes it seriously, having bowled a perfect game about 10 years ago.

“My top score was 300 when I was 90, here (at Kyrene Lanes),” he said. “I would have been 91 in a week or so. It was September 3rd.”

David, who has bowled with his father for about a decade, saw his dad bowl the 300 game.

“It was 11 days before his birthday. Every ball was right in the pocket, perfect,” David said. “It was a Friday color pin game. Brunswick gave him a plaque and a jacket. The bowling alley gave him a bowling ball.”

BY TRACY HOUSE

The Joe Jackson Foundation (JJF) is hosting its second annual JJF Charity Golf Tournament at Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass in September.

The foundation works to provide individual grants to help cover the cost of adaptive sports and recreational equipment for children and athletes, 21 and younger, with spinal cord injuries.

Joe Jackson, a former Hamilton High School student, injured his spinal cord during a high school football practice. He worked aggressively on his rehabilitation and maintains a full and active lifestyle.

Joe, along with his father, Todd Jackson, run the nonprofit foundation. They hope to have between 60 and 75 golfers out

for the tournament scheduled for 7 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass, 5692 W. North Loop Rd., Chandler. For more information, call (800) 480-0851.

Joe shared that last year’s tournament went well. “We want to have more sponsors,” he said. “We’d like to see more hole sponsors, as well.”

Returning sponsors include: Healthy Pools, John Wilson, Arizona Guide Right Foundation, Virginia C. Piper Sports and Fitness Center, Saguaro Dive Shop and UPS. Sponsorships are still available for businesses or individuals interested in supporting the foundation. The cost to sponsor a hole is $200.

People of all ages and gardening abilities can attend the Fall Seed Swap. Siblings Haley and Jeremy Anderson enjoyed choosing seeds at a previous seed swap. Submitted photo

much alive,” said Bruce Dean, co-founder and chief operating officer for Black Bear Diner.

“We want people to feel at home in our restaurant. You’re a guest at our house and we want to make you feel cozy and comfortable. For the residents of Chandler, they can expect friendly smiles, huge portions, and great warmth for a restaurant that wants to bring people together.”

While people are at the Fall Seed Swap, Atwood said they can also check out some of the other eco-friendly programs the library offers.

“We have great digital resources about gardening and we host other programs and events that are themed around sustainability,” she said.

For example, Atwood said those who have a library card can use the Zinio service to download magazines for free.

“We have a ton of magazines including some on gardening like Organic Life, Successful Farming and Mother Earth News,” she said.

Atwood said helping to organize the Seed Swaps has definitely inspired her to have a green thumb.

“I am a novice gardener, but during the Spring Seed Swap in February I got some sunflower seeds and I planted them in my backyard and they are amazing,” she said.

For more information, call (480) 782-2800 or visit www.chandlerlibrary.org and click on Programs and Events and then Sunset.

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

by Franchise Times and Franchise Business Review, is thrilled to become part of the community and seeks to create a city hot spot where residents can gather for fun times, culture and soul-satisfying food.

“Each of our diners

Vern Nelson, 100 years old, and his son, David, bowl in a Tuesday league at Brunswick Kyrene Lanes. Vern’s average is a 224. He’ll be 101 years old in September. STSN photo by Tracy House.

said Dean. “There are commonalities across our restaurants, but we really try to add a local flavor.”

Each Black Bear Diner includes artwork that reflects and captures the spirit of its unique town. The new

It is an accomplishment they are both proud to share.

Up until the last few years, David said Vern was bowling pretty high games. As recent as last year, Vern bowled a 224 game. He uses a 10 or 12 pound ball.

The former president and CEO of Southwest Savings and Loan, Vern retired in 1982. He was born in Idaho, and moved along with his wife, Sylvia, to Arizona in 1977 to be closer to his son and grandchild.

Vern has four children, four grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren spread across the country in Seattle, San Diego, Tennessee and Texas.

“He used to have a sea plane and we had sailboats,” David said. “He’s had a good life.”

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

launch, will feature art by master carver Ray Schultz and a custom mural of the Arizona landscape by renowned painter Colleen Mitchell-Veyna.

For more information about Black Bear Diner, visit http://blackbeardiner.com.

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

Mr. Pineapple available year-round

SanTan Brewing Company’s most popular seasonal beer, Mr. Pineapple Wheat Beer, is now available year-round. The beer made a splash as soon as it hit the market in 2010. The following year Mr. Pineapple traveled to Denver and took home a silver medal at the Great American Beer Festival. Soon thereafter, it won numerous local awards such as “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 its 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 to find locations.

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 alters, music and song. For sponsorship opportunities, call Si Se Puede Foundation at (480) 310-2018.

Splash around at Sheraton’s Labor Day party

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 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 22-foot dual slip and slide, multiple sizes of inflatable water slides for kids of all ages, a dunk tank and more. All guests on the VIP package will be given four specialty wristbands at checkin, 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” Saturday evening from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. 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” from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday 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 and guests are encouraged to act quickly. 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 SanTan Mountain Regional Park for the entire family to enjoy.

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

Nathan Marten Memorial

Join the SanTan 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, Aug. 12. Attendees will learn some amazing facts about the world’s fire-y topped 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, Aug. 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 set to invade 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. Matisyahu, Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers and a local polka band are set 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 its 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 festivities take place in Dr. A.J. Chandler Park across from SanTan Brewing Company at 3 S. Arizona Pl., Chandler.

and under 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 over and includes catered food from SanTan Brewing, six beers, private seating area, private restrooms and exclusive stage viewing access.

Submitted photo

Also, starting Sept. 1, presale tickets will be available for $10 at all Valley Bashas’ locations.

Presale general admission tickets are on sale for $12 online at www.santanoktoberfest.com or at SanTan Brewing Company. Kids 12

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 selfsufficient through quality employment. For more information, visit www. sjwjobs.org.

In other SanTan Brewing Company news, its Oktoberfest Lager has hit shelves and craft beer bars almost a

Spectrum

Lager early.

month ahead of schedule.

Brewed in the Southwestern Style, Oktoberfest Lager is a malty beer with a slight sweet aroma of caramel spice. This brew pairs perfectly with bratwurst, schnitzel, soft pretzels and knockwurst and sauerkraut.

“I’m excited to release Oktoberfest early this year, it was so popular last year that we almost ran out trying to keep up with demand. To remedy that, we got an early start on the season with our brewing process this year. Let the fall festivities and fun begin,” said Anthony Canecchia, founder and brewmaster at SanTan Brewing Company.

To find a pint or can of SanTan’s beers, visit SanTan Brewing Company’s Beer Finder at www.SanTanBeerFinder.com.

Salut hosting fundraiser for special needs camp

From 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, Salut Kitchen Bar will donate 20 percent of combined sales from select food and drink to Lions Camp Tatiyee, the only free, special needs camp in Arizona for individuals of all ages with disabilities.

Within the last couple of years, this 501(c)(3) was in danger of canceling weeklong sessions due to a shortfall of funds.

From open to close, campers can experiment with the make-your-own s’mores kit while parents enjoy a refreshing Kilt Lifter, or choose from Salut’s full menu of food and beverage and find one of the donation jars set up throughout the restaurant.

With half off bottles of wine and a raffle where individuals can enter to win a Salut gift card, sporting event tickets and more, attendees can spend the afternoon supporting a great cause.

Salut Kitchen Bar offers a wide array of flavorful and innovative menu items inspired by a mix of Mediterranean and American cuisine. The 3,400-square-foot restaurant and bar, located between Mill Avenue and Tempe Marketplace, offers sophisticated, yet affordable authentic food and an extensive wine and cocktail selection.

For more information, visit www. salutkitchenbar.com.

Rockin’ Taco Street Fest returns to El Palacio of Chandler

Save the date for the return of El Palacio of Chandler’s Rockin’ Taco Street Fest from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19. Highlights include a newly expanded kid’s zone with more water play activities, a taco eating contest, a chance to win a trip to Ensenada and more live entertainment including steel drums, reggae, Ballet Folklorico dancers and a DJ.

Admission is $5 and includes one raffle ticket for a chance to win a trip to Ensenada, Mexico. Bring the entire family out, relax and unwind at the festive event featuring street taco stations, a margarita hut, tequila tasting, cold beer, games, vendors, entertainment and more. The event will also feature salsa and taco competitions.

“I’m excited to bring this fun community event back again this year. It’s a lot of fun celebrating Mexican Independence with our customers, friends and families,” said Anthony Serrano, owner and head chef at El Palacio Restaurant & Cantina of Chandler.

The Rockin’ Taco Street Fest will be held at El Palacio of Chandler in the Crossroads Shopping Center, 2950 E. Germann Rd. Children 12 and younger will be admitted for free. Tickets are available at El Palacio, online at www. rockintacoaz.com or at the door on the day of the event.

A percentage of the proceeds from El Palacio’s Mexican Independence Day

Fiesta will benefit Ballet Folklorico Quetzali-AZ, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the awareness and education of Mexican culture through folkloric dance. The organization is located at 3016 N. Dobson Rd., Suite 16, in Chandler. For more information, visit www.quetzali-az.com.

Social Box Neighborhood Eatery offers football season specials

Social Box Neighborhood Eatery is offering specials for NFL football fans throughout the preseason and regular season.

The drink specials are $2 domestic pints; $4 domestic mugs; $7 domestic pitchers; $10 buckets of domestic bottles; $4 fireballs and jack fires and $5 Deep Eddy flavors.

The food specials include $4 brats and tots; $6 tater nachos (add chicken for $2 or short ribs for $4); $8 football pizza and $8 burger baskets.

Social Box is located at 1371 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler. For more information or for a full list of specials, call (480) 899-6735 or visit www. socialboxeateries.com.

Arizona Restaurant Week scheduled for September

The wait is nearly over for the 10-day Arizona Restaurant Association’s Fall Restaurant Week.

The event—Friday, Sept. 18, through Sunday, Sept. 27—offers special menus at diners’ favorite restaurants and gives them the chance to eat their way across the Valley, trying new restaurants and cuisine types.

During Fall ARW, participating restaurants, many of which are located in Chandler, offer a three-course prixfixe menu for $33 or $44, excluding beverages, tax and gratuity unless otherwise noted. ARW menus allow food lovers to experience the height of culinary talent of chefs statewide.

Some of the Chandler restaurants include Ocotillo Golf Resort and The Keg.

Nicantoni’s

Pizza hosts monthly car show

Nicantoni’s Pizza is hosting the fourth Friday Car Show with Cutthroat Customs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28, at 1430 W. Warner Rd., Suite 136 in Gilbert. Special guests will be the AZ All-Gen Camaro Club.

“Arizona’s food scene continues to thrive,” said Arizona Restaurant Association President and CEO Steve Chucri. “We’re fresh off the success of our inaugural Arizona Breakfast Weekend, and preparing for another wildly popular restaurant week. Our local chefs and mixologists are incredibly innovative and continue to delight taste buds around the state.”

More than 75 restaurants have already signed up to participate in this highly touted culinary event, produced by the Arizona Restaurant Association.

In all, more than 200 restaurants are expected to participate. From fine dining options such as J&G Steakhouse at the Phoenician and Binkley’s Restaurant to trendy hot spots such as

Stop by and enjoy hot cars, bikes and pizza. For more information, call (480) 8922234, email nicantonis@hotmail.com or visit www.nicantonis.com.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PROPOSED VALET PARKING ZONE LOCATIONS CHANDLER CITY COUNCIL

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING to be held by the City of Chandler on AUGUST 25, 2015 at 5:00 P.M. in the City Council Chambers, 88 East Chicago Street, Chandler, Arizona.

Proposed valet parking zone locations in Downtown Chandler (area bounded by Chandler Boulevard, Dakota Street, Frye Road and Delaware Street) will be presented for the public to be heard on the matter.

For more information, please contact Dan Cook with the City of Chandler at 480-782-3403.

Southern Rail, Salty Sow and Rusconi’s American Kitchen and neighborhood favorites such as Chelsea’s Kitchen, El Chorro Lodge and Marcellino Ristorante, Fall Arizona Week truly offers something for every palette.

Those anticipating ARW’s fall arrival can check out updates at www. ArizonaRestaurantWeek.com on participating restaurants. Menus will continually be added on that site.

Joint Chiropractic honors first responders

The Joint Chiropractic will again honor first responders by organizing the third annual First Responders Week from Monday, Sept. 7, through Saturday, Sept. 12. The week is held for police, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, active duty and veteran military members and their immediate family members to come in for a free consultation, exam and adjustment at any of the Joint’s participating clinics.

The Chandler location is at 2895 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 6.

First responders are on the frontlines of the action and the physical demands of the work they perform can lead to back and neck pain. Millions of Americans have experienced relief from back pain through the benefits of chiropractic care and in the process have found a pathway to wellness with chiropractic’s natural, drug-free approach to healthcare. No appointments are required and clinics are open evenings and weekends. For regular clinic hours, visit www. thejoint.com.

Chompie’s hosts third annual Eat Like a Kid Day

Chompie’s, Arizona’s New York deli, invites everyone to join “Eat Like a Kid Day” on Wednesday, Aug. 19. On Eat Like a Kid Day, people of any age can order off of Chompie’s awardwinning kids meal, and Chompie’s will make a donation from every kids meal purchased to the nonprofit Playworks Inc. to keep bullying out of Phoenix schools. To date, Chompie’s has donated more than $25,000 to Playworks Arizona as a result of Eat Like a Kid Day.

The offer is dine-in only, one kid’s meal per person and is not valid with Groupon. Chompie’s awardwinning kids menu is packed with all the foods kids of all ages love to chomp. With 19 entrees, there’s something to enjoy for every kid, from the finicky to the junior foodie. Gluten-free friendly options are also available.

choices, such as the Yankee Single Slider—choice of one Jewish slider, Stuff Turkey slider, or Western Slider for $4.99. The kids menu also offers an Empire State Steak dinner for little ones with a big appetite.

Kid’s menu lunch and dinner options also include a sprinkle cookie and choice of one side—carrot sticks and ranch dressing, house made potato chips, French fries, sweet potato fries or fresh fruit. Chompie’s full regular dining menu will also be available that day at all Chompie’s locations.

With school violence on the rise, Chompie’s is proud to continue its partnership with the nonprofit Playworks to keep bullying out of Phoenix area schools and playgrounds by hosting Eat

Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA names new chairman and board members

The Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA has named a new chairman and board members.

Hungry diners cannot go wrong with breakfast favorites like the Central Park Scramble—scrambled egg, plus bagel, turkey sausage and fresh fruit for $4.70; or lunch and dinner

Like a Kid Day. And furthering their commitment, Chompie’s also makes a donation to Playworks Arizona for each Chompie’s brand water bottle purchased in their restaurant.

Jason Bates, senior vice president with FirstBank, has been appointed chairman of the board of directors for the Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA. He joined the Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA board of managers in 2009 and has chaired the Finance Committee and Board Development Committee. Marisa Farias, senior marketing specialist at Healthways, has been appointed to the board of directors

for the Chandler/Gilbert YMCA. She is a second generation Chandler native and University of Arizona Eller College of Business alumna, with a passion for community and population well-being. Aaron Harris, director of federal programs and ELL for the Agua Fria Union High School District, has been appointed to the board of the Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA. He and his family have lived in Chandler for the past three years, coming from Maricopa.

Wimpy’s burger challenge not for wimps

BY TRACY HOUSE

Food fans Rob Mayo, Travis Foutch and Tom Knodl roam the East Valley every week, looking for an eating challenge.

“A bunch of us get together every Tuesday night. We go to different places” to check out the challenges laid down by restaurants, said Mayo, of Mesa. Mayo once beat a burrito challenge, eating a 7-pound monster he said was as long as his arm.

The trio’s most recent quest: Eat a burger made of five, half pound Angus ground chuck patties, topped with four slices of Tillamook cheddar cheese and two fried eggs on a pretzel bun, in 30 minutes or less, earning a place in the Belly Bustin’ Burger Hall of Fame at Wimpy’s Paradise.

Randy Walters, owner of Wimpy’s Paradise and Pittsburgh Willy’s, introduced

the Beat the Burger challenge in February.

Eleven people have tried it, but until the Mayo-Foutch-Knold trio stopped by, only one challenger completed the task.

Foutch, from Chandler, said he tried the burger challenge just for the heck of it, and skipped lunch as part of his preparation.

For Knodl, of Scottsdale, this was the first challenge he’d tried in a year. “I was supposed to drink a lot of water, but I forgot to,” he said.

The trio donned black gloves in order to eat the mound of meat. Each had his own approach to the 2 ½-pound burger, but by the halfway mark Knodl had made the most progress, taking the last bite and finishing in record time of 15 minutes 47 seconds.

While Mayo and Foutch continued to eat, Knodl offered to help them out, and then

ordered a Twilly (Twinkie, hot dog, bacon and peanut butter) and ice cream just for fun.

Knodl said it was a shame to rush through the challenge, the burger was so good. Mayo and Foutch agreed. “The patties taste really good,” Mayo said several times throughout the challenge, who added he’d probably finish the burger later in the evening. Foutch saved his for lunch the next day.

If a group would like to try the challenge, Walters mentioned that they should call ahead to make sure there’s enough beef.

Walters’ father owned two Wimpy’s Paradise restaurants in 1939 in Pittsburgh. He left to serve in World War II, and when he came back, he didn’t reopen them. “When I was a kid, my dad and I had a talk. I remember asking if he had any regrets in life. He told me the only regret he had is he

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never reopened Wimpy’s when he came back from the war,” Walters said. “It was always my dream to finish his dream. The hot dog place (Pittsburgh Willy’s) was my dream, and I wanted to bring his back.”

The two restaurants are under one roof. Wimpy’s Paradise and Pittsburgh Willy’s is located in downtown Chandler at 48 S. San Marcos Pl. Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday (serving breakfast), and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday. Visit the website at www. wimpysparadise.com to view the menu and for more information.

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

Snyder to sign books at Guedo’s Cantina

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

A longtime teacher and a Chandler staple are coming together to introduce the public to a new book.

Author William Snyder is promoting “How Do You Like Them Apples? Stories from 29 Years in the Teaching Biz,” a book that offers insight into the triumphs and tragedies of his teaching career. His promotion trail includes a 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, an appearance at Guedo’s Cantina Grille, 71 E. Chandler Blvd., Chandler.

Anyone who purchases “How Do You Like Them Apples?” during the event will receive a free taco.

“It’s the only one I ever heard of,” said Snyder of the unique book launch. “I have about 100 people coming…hoping for more than that.”

“Our goal is to get 18 hole sponsors,” Todd said. “We want our medal sponsorships to take off. We really want those to be filled.” There are four medal sponsorships: Bronze, silver, gold and platinum levels.

“Not only businesses can sponsor a hole, but you can donate a hole to a loved one, or in remembrance of someone,” Todd said. “One of the guys did a hole sponsorship in memory of his aunt.”

Golfers will be entered into a raffle. They will also receive a goodie bag and have lunch. The cost for each golfer is $125, or $480 for a foursome. Todd said they are accepting donations of raffle items as well as sponsorships. The tournament will feature many golfers, including athletes from the Virginia C. Piper Sports and Fitness Center for Persons with Disabilities.

The foundation has been able to donate two rugby chairs to spinal cord injured athletes. Joe explained that the cost of one chair can be as much as $5,000 and can take three months to make. “It comes with axels, equipment and spare wheels,” Joe said. “It’s going to be expensive because it’s custom fit.” The foundation works with two manufacturers to supply the chairs.

Joe attends ASU, where he studies industrial engineering. He also plays competitive rugby for the Phoenix Heat. “We won our second national championship in April,” he said. “I was invited to try out for the U.S. team in May and I hurt my shoulder on the second day.

I’ve been rehabbing that, trying to get back into the chair. I’m trying to get back in shape.” He hopes to be ready to play in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil for the 2016 Paralympics Games. “That’s what I’m looking forward to.”

He lives independently with friends from high school and stresses his “I Can” motto in the way he lives his life. An avid scuba diver, he works as a dive buddy trainer and is heading to Cozumel, Mexico, on a scuba diving vacation. “It’s another thing people can do that they don’t realize,” Joe said. “It’s really relaxing too.”

Joe is available as a motivational speaker and does peer mentoring at Barrow Neurological Institute. “It’s kind of giving them a sense of hope. ‘You got injured, OK, but there’s still other stuff that you can do. You don’t have to sit around and mope.’ I show them that you can drive, go to school, work. Pretty much anything you want, you just have to work at it.”

He is frank about living with a spinal cord injury and will openly answer any questions. “When you’re in the hospital, you get exposed. You learn to not care. Not in a bad way. The nurses see you, you’re exposed. No question is off limits.”

While someone may have suffered a spinal cord injury, their life doesn’t have to suffer because of it. Educating, empowering and encouraging are the core objectives of the Joe Jackson Foundation, along with raising awareness and providing adaptive sports equipment for the injured athlete.

“It’s all about giving back and moving forward,” Todd said.

In addition to food and the book signing, the “real estate rock star,” Ty Lusk, will entertain.

Longtime dream

In the hopes to writing a book, Snyder began keeping a daily journal in notebooks. Now, the pile of notebooks reaches 5 feet high. Throughout his career he has taught at inner-city, Catholic and charter schools, as well as boys reformatories.

“Most of my career, I taught at-risk kids in difficult situations,” he said.

Snyder began his teaching career after he decided that stand-up comedy wasn’t his thing, plus he wanted to make money.

The career change was supposed to be temporary, but Snyder soon learned that teaching was the route he wanted to take.

“I was born to teach,” said Snyder, who teaches at Carson Junior High School in Mesa, and formerly worked at Basha High School. “It’s been hard, but rewarding.”

For more information about Snyder’s book, visit www.williamsnyder.biz.

Meghan McCoy is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@santansun.com.

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