3 15 2014 stsn p45 59 neighbors

Neighbors

Train enthusiasts chug into backyards for tours

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

Valleywide members of the Arizona Big Train Operators are opening their backyards to the public to provide rare glimpses into their garden train layouts.

Sun Lakes resident Rich Hill says Arizona Big Train Operators, a club dedicated to garden railroad enthusiasts, boasts 90 members mostly in Chandler, Mesa, Apache Junction and Gold Canyon.

The Spring Open House Tour is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 29, and Sunday, March 30. For all locations, as well as a map, visit www.azbigtrains. org. Five members who live in Chandler and Sun Lakes will have their railways on display.

“There are usually about 14 or 15 families that participate in this,” he says. “Everyone that is involved really are the leaders of our club. They take an interest in this and make sure their layout is pristine for the public to see. It’s a big deal for everyone at every age.”

The tour is the first of two this year. The Christmas event in 2013 attracted more than 1,300 people over two weekends, Hill says. This is the second year the club has held a Spring Open House Railway Tour for the public. Last year the two-day event attracted up to 500 people.

347 Grill at UltraStar boasts new executive chef, upgraded menu

BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

If you haven’t had a chance to get out to UltraStar Multi-tainment Center, you are missing out on one of the most fun and delicious restaurants to open in the last year. The 347 Grill located in UltraStar is getting ready to unveil its new menu. Executive Chef Frank Abeyta has recently come on board at the 347 Grill and has been revamping the menu to reflect a more exciting flavor palette and versatile menu offerings.

“We’ll be debuting the new menu in the second or third week of March,” Abeyta states. “I’ve been changing recipes and upgrading the quality of the ingredients.”

Abeyta was trained in the Valley and has served as an executive chef for 25 years. Eight years ago,

Pioneer Luncheon evolves into Celebrate Chandler

BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

Since 1985, the Chandler Historical Society has been hosting the Pioneer Luncheon which honored members of the community who had been instrumental in developing Chandler.

To mark a new outlook, the event has been rebranded the Celebrate Chandler Luncheon and will take place Saturday, March 29.

“Now that we’ve had our first 100 years, we’re looking at the next 100 and what is the next 100 going to be like,” says Michel Larson, Chandler Historical Society president. “What is our future going to look like? That’s the focus of this luncheon from now on.”

The Celebrate Chandler Luncheon is open

Swim, bike and run for a good cause Tri for the Cure set for March 23 at Chandler High

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

Women from the Valley and beyond will converge on Chandler for the eighth annual Tri for the Cure which raises money for Susan G. Komen Central and Northern Arizona.

The event is set for Sunday, March 23, at Chandler High School, 350 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler.

Kathy Morrill, a Chandler resident, considers her Tri for the Cure participation seven years ago as her first triathlon. She was joined by four or five other ladies and since then the group has swelled to seven or eight. They have not missed a year since then.

“We were very afraid the first time,” she

says. “We didn’t know what we were getting into and didn’t know what to expect.”

Morrill likes that it’s a women-only event. It’s for a good cause, she says, with Christina Catalano, past event chairwoman and committee member, agreeing.

“It’s awareness for our causes and women in our community supporting each other,” Catalano says.

She says the high school is a great location for the event due to its layout. She says the triathlon uses the school’s pool to kick off the event and the race finishes in the stadium.

to the public. This year’s event will be held at the Crowne Plaza San

front-of-the-house management and also served as a food and beverage director. “I didn’t realize how much I missed being a chef and how much I loved it.”

From the get-go, Abeyta has set to work thoughtfully redesigning the menu.

“347 Grill is American-style cuisine presented in a beautiful way,” he says. “The quality of our food is comparable to Scottsdale, but at a fair price.”

“We are very excited to have Chef Frank join our team,” states Vice President of Operations and General Manager of UltraStar Adam Saks.

“Frank has stepped right in and has had an immediate impact on our program and the guests already know him by name.”

New taste sensations

One of our favorite new menu items is the pearled couscous, watermelon and goat cheese salad. The clever presentation features a large piece of flavorful parmesan specially prepared and then “wrapped” around the entree. The goat cheese provides a bit of tang and creaminess and the “pop” of sweetness from the watermelon make this one of the most unique dishes on the menu, combining excellent ingredients and a thoughtful combination of textures and flavors.

Another stand-out item is the shrimp ceviche tacos, which are carefully stacked and then presented with a colorful assortment of greens. This is a perfectly sized dish for a personal appetizer or dinner or to share with a small group. The caprese salad is also a welcome addition to the menu, one that is usually a crowd favorite and pairs well

Reservations are required by calling Larson at (480) 201-5884 or emailing him at Michel.200@live.com.

Tickets are $25 and food service begins at 11:30 a.m. Cost is $250 for a six-seat table sponsorship and $500 and $1,000 for the 12-seat table sponsorship. These sponsorships may be tax deductible. Visit http://downtownchandler.org/events/ celebrate-chandler-luncheon/ for additional information.

“Some of our speakers are going to address what they see in the future for their business,” Larson says.

with just about any main entree.

Some of the most popular items on the menu are the stone-fired pizzas and those will remain. The crust is somewhere between a deep dish and thin crust and features just the right amount of tangy sauce. Build-your-own just the way you want. The pizzas alone are worth the trip. “Everyone who comes out should at least try the pizza. It’s what we’re known for,” Abeyta states.

The lobster mac and cheese is another favorite at 347 Grill that will be staying. A bit of a departure from other restaurants that offer the same dish, this version boasts creamy lobster bisque with vine-ripened tomatoes, fresh basil, crunchy seasoned breadcrumbs and is served with garlic bread.

Other items on the menu will include shared plates such as bruschetta, lamb sliders, lobster cake and Asian chicken lettuce wraps and soups, salads and sandwiches like grilled chicken ciabatta, French dip and grilled Portobello. A variety of unique burgers rounds out the main menu. There is also a kids’ menu with children’s favorites including sliders and quesadillas.

The dessert menu will also be adding a decadent chocolate tuxedo mousse, a generous-sized portion served as a mousse/cake combo and served with fresh berries. “My goal with this new menu is to bring more customers into the building,” Abeyta explains. “Then they can stay in the building and go to the movie theater.”

Saks adds, “The new menus Chef Frank has in store will really be exciting. He will be focusing on farm fresh ideas and local vendors to bring seasonal changes and reinvent our menus, making a trip to UltraStar Multi-tainment Center a culinary journey and experience.”

“Eddie ‘Trey’ Basha III is the president/ CEO of the Basha Company and they have a long history in Chandler, but what is it going to be from now on? Intel has been here since the ‘80s, too, and what’s it going to be like for them from now on? What do they foresee for their business?”

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny will also address luncheon attendees.

Funds raised during the Celebrate Chandler Luncheon support the Chandler Museum, which features displays, exhibits and historical items that relate to Chandler’s rich history, including a 1925 Dodge Coupe that once belonged to Dr. A.J. Chandler. The car will be on display

A variety of entertainment, one location

UltraStar Multi-tainment Center is located right next to Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino in Maricopa. The massive complex features a state-ofthe-art movie theater with 12 movie auditoriums, stadium-style seating and StarClass Balconies for guests 21 and older, with wine and beer service and in-seat ordering. VIP and party rooms also give groups and parties a unique experience with added privacy. 3-D film capability is available, plus D-BOX motion chairs, which give an added interactive dimension to the movieviewing experience, putting you right in the middle of the action.

Other activities at UltraStar include

at Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort during the luncheon.

“People can join the society and the membership is very reasonable. There will be membership forms on the tables,” Larson notes.

The Chandler Historical Society was founded in 1969.

“Our focus is preserving the history of Chandler, which has a unique history, and developing programs and helping to fund the museum.”

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

an upscale bowling experience at Ten Pins Down, laser tag at Urban Arena Laser Tag and a wide variety of arcade-style games and a cool tickets redemption center. Adults 21 and older will also love spending time with friends or watching the game in Luxe Lounge. In addition to redesigning the menu at 347 Grill, Abeyta is also redoing the menus at Luxe Lounge, Ten Pins Down and Cones Café (desserts, goodies and homemade ice cream).

347 Grill and UltraStar Multi-tainment Center are located at 16000 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa. Call (520) 233-2425 or visit www.ultrastarakcin.com for additional information.

Lynette Carrington is a freelancer for the San Tan Sun News. She can be reached at lynette@santansun.com

The first year the triathlon took place in Tempe. The swimming portion was held in the open water, which Catalano expresses, was not good for beginner triathletes.

“We quickly realized we needed to move it to a pool,” she says. “It is a short triathlon to help encourage first-time tri-athletes. We try to keep it safe and inviting as possible.”

There are four race options this year: an adult women’s triathlon, a 400-yard swim, 8-mile bike and 2-mile run; adult women’s duathlon, 1-mile run, 8-mile bike and 2-mile run; adult women’s triathlon relay; and a 3.2-mile women’s 5K Fun Run.

Catalano says they have added a 5K and a duathlon for ladies who are hesitant about swimming.

Morrill says anyone who is thinking of trying their first triathlon should sign up for Tri for the Cure. She says the atmosphere is more relaxed and not intimidating.

“They come back and do it again,” Catalano says of first-time participants. “It’s a boost to their confidence.”

The transition area opens at 5 a.m. for the event, as well as body marking and aerobic warm-up.

The race starts at 7 a.m. Catalano says such celebrities as Olympic gold medal winner Misty Hyman, who won for her butterfly and backstroke swim, will lead the event.

Although Morrill has trained steadily throughout the year, she says she swims and runs twice a week, and does triathlon training every day to get ready.

“We continuously do everything just to stay fit and improve our times,” she says. “I have other events that I do all year long.”

The smaller triathlon has expanded her distance in other events, such as the half

and full iron man.

“I used to be just a runner,” Morrill says of half marathons. “To do a triathlon and do a little bit of everything, it’s just awesome.”

The post-race party begins at 8:30 a.m.

Founder Preston Miller says everyone has a lot of fun at the event, which welcomes families.

“We have food, entertainment. It’s pretty much a country fair kind of atmosphere,” he says.

Miller says they always have a really wonderful group of survivors not only racing, but handing out medals at the finish line.

He says they host clinics and classroom training for the bike and pool portion of the triathlon three months leading up to the race to dispel any fears participants might have with doing a triathlon.

He explains the Tri Scottsdale Foundation, a nonprofit organization and triathlon club, decided it wanted to do something beneficial for the community.

Miller says it decided to hold a fundraising event for the Susan G. Komen Central and Northern Arizona foundation due to young triathlon pro, and cofounder, Lewis Elliot losing his mother to breast cancer.

Miller says they have raised more than $250,000 for the Susan G. Komen Central and Northern Arizona as a third-party fundraiser. A percentage of all entry fees and 100 percent of participant fundraisers go to Susan G. Komen.

“Per participant, we donate more than any other third party,” Catalano says. For more information or to register, visit www.triforthecureaz.com.

Meghan McCoy is the Neighbors and Business section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@ santansun.com.

“Just about everyone is putting a lot of effort in the Spring Open House,” Hill says. Ennis Thompson, also a Sun Lakes resident, says in 1997 he began an open house by himself to showcase his train layout.

“One year, we had 11,000 people in 16 days in my backyard,” Thompson says.

At one time, he held an open house for 20 straight days for four hours each day, which increased the crowd.

Now Thompson is among the ABTO members who participate in the spring and Christmas open house tours.

Backyard train layouts

Once Thompson moved to Sun Lakes, he built another railroad in his backyard. Thompson’s layout is 34 feet by 12 feet and which runs five trains at a time. The railroad tracks run up a mountain and back down to a station where there is a pond with fish. He fashions his own buildings for the layout.

“I’m going to put up a little car dealership at the end,” Thompson says. “I would like to build a covered bridge.”

Hill’s layout is just as elaborate. He began setting up his 35 feet by 70 feet program as soon as he moved into his Sun Lakes home. The layout, dubbed Rooster Creek Railroad, includes more than 500 feet of track. The layout has a fictitious town set in the 1950s with buildings named after businesses in his hometown Atlantic, Iowa.

“I like the era of the 1950s,” Hill says. Attending school during that decade, “a lot of things stuck in my mind. That’s what I tried to recreate.”

The layout also includes an oil refinery with 400 lights, a mine building, a farm with silos and about 400 people. A movie theater with a marquee and flashing lights is also among the layout, one of only two made in the United States.

“Most of my buildings are now five to six years old and they look almost brand new because I put them inside,” Hill says.

Hill has a three-car garage that he turned into a hobby room containing memorabilia from the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus.

“My son and I are building a Ringling train from the 1950s,” Hill explains.

Hill conducts a scavenger hunt for the youngsters who visit his layout during the open house. He says the scavenger hunt includes items that can be found on the

train layout.

Donations, which are tax deductible, will be accepted at the homes participating in the tour. The money donated will support ABTO activities and a train layout at Cardon Children’s Medical Center in Mesa.

Founded in 1996 for those interested in g-scale trains, ABTO meets monthly.

Early love of trains

Hill’s love of trains started as a young boy when he and his brother received one for Christmas.

“I grew up in an area where four railroads went within 20 miles of our house,” Hill explains. “My parents always made sure my brother and I were around when the famous trains came through. I had a real

interest in real trains and I still do.”

Thompson says his dad was an engineer on the North Central when he was a young boy. He says he got through college by working on the railroad. After graduating, the railroad crews began getting cut and he became a teacher in Indiana for 12 years.

When he moved to Arizona in 1976, he spotted Arizona Train Depot, which ignited a new hobby.

“By the time I got out of there, I joined the club and held about every office in the club,” Thompson says.

Open house enjoyment

Thompson says he enjoys participating in the open house because he loves watching the people.

“I really enjoy seeing people enjoy the railroad,” he says. “It brings back their pasts and some kids just stand there in awe.” Hill agrees that people, particularly the young, are the reason he participates. He says there have been times when parents have to take their children away in tears because they do not want to leave.

Some of the youngsters make sure to tell Hill what he has added from tour to tour.

“The older adults enjoy it because chances are they had a model train as a child,” Hill says. “They notice things on the train layout and it brings back memories from their childhood.”

Meghan McCoy is the Neighbors and Business section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@ santansun.com.

Senior Expo offers abundance of information for Baby Boomers

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

The 24th annual Senior Expo, a free educational and informational event, will showcase a plethora of vendors for attendees.

Sponsored by the Mayor’s Committee for the Aging, the Senior Expo will feature 60 vendors from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wednesday, March 19, at the Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave.

Chandler Senior Center Manager Nancy Jackson says the Mayor’s Committee for the Aging wanted to provide an all-inclusive event that has unlimited information for the senior population.

Ann Marie McArthur, Senior Expo chairwoman and a committee member, says the organization helps promote services for the elderly in Chandler. It is dedicated to improving the welfare, dignity and quality of life for Chandler’s Baby Boomers.

Jackson says the committee’s functions are to develop and disperse information to the aging, their families, caregivers and others who provide service for them; help the aging population through promoting volunteerism; educate the City Council and the community on issues that affect the aging population and track and study proposed legislation at the federal, state and local levels.

“As the population is growing older by the minute, we try to primarily put the expo on, which provides a variety of information for the seniors,” she explains.

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Maxing out at 60 vendors annually, the event keeps a waiting list for potential exhibitors. Attendance reaches between 1,000 and 1,200.

“It’s quite busy through a three-hour period,” Jackson says. “They know when they come to the expo there will be a good variety of vendors for them to see.”

Representatives from health care agencies, leisure services, senior-related product firms, city departments and local organizations will be in attendance to provide information for those who attend.

McArthur will promote her organization, About Care, through the fair.

“My organization has a table because we give free service to the elderly,” she explains.

The volunteer-run organization has approximately 400 clients who receive

CO-SPONSOR: Cigna is one of the cosponsors for the 24th annual Senior Expo, a gathering at the Chandler Community Center on Wednesday, March 19, for the aging population to obtain information from 60 vendors. Submitted photo

services such as transportation to medical appointments and the senior center, shopping and errands, reassurance phone calls, computer assistance program and minor home repairs.

“It’s a really rewarding service,” McArthur says.

In addition to the vendors, the expo will also include free blood pressure screenings provided by the fire department and a limited number of cholesterol and glucose tests. Free coffee and entertainment will also be a part of the event.

McArthur says the mayor and City Council typically make an appearance as well.

“It’s free, it’s really fun,” McArthur says

about the expo. “It’s just a really fun event to help our elderly.”

The Youth Committee will provide a helping hand during the expo by setting up the center, cleaning up afterward and acting as tour guides for the attendees.

For more information call (480) 7822720 or visit www.chandleraz.gov/senioradults.

The 2014 Chandler Senior Expo is presented by Dignity Health and cosponsored by Cigna and Prime Times Magazine.

Meghan McCoy is the Neighbors and Business section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@ santansun.com.

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Family Fun Run recognizes Disability Awareness Month

BY LILY LIEBERMAN

For the seventh year, the Chandler City Council and the Committee for People with Disabilities will come together to host the Chandler Family Fun Run at 10:15 a.m. Friday, April 4.

In honor of Disability Awareness Month, the two groups present a free day of fun at Tumbleweed Park’s McDowell Mountain pavilion.

POWER WALKING: A participant power walks to the finish line at the Chandler Fun Run. Submitted photo

“The mayor’s committee always gives out awards and recognizes Disability Awareness Month with a proclamation through the mayor, so in conjunction with that we started a fun run,” says Collette Prather, recreation coordinator and the mayor’s committee city liaison.

This year, the event has expanded to include kids and adults with disabilities in the community. Surrounding schools, caregivers and individuals with and without disabilities are encouraged to attend as well.

“We offer a free day in the park for kids in the surrounding schools to come out and participate with us,” Prather says.

“We have music, a balloon artist and a face painter, and then they do a run around the park. It’s about a mile and they do as much or as little as they want.”

The Fun Run will be held until 12 p.m. and will include dancing and a hot dog lunch. Designed to encourage physical activity, participants are welcome to bring therapeutic tools to the run.

“Some (people) come out with their therapy bikes and lots of times physical therapists come out with them,” she says.

“The schools will sometimes bring peer facilitators that come to help and just interact with participants.”

Reservations for the event are encouraged by Monday, March 31. For questions and to RSVP, call Collette Prather at (480) 782-2709.

“It’s just a fun day in the park to be out in the community and highlight their abilities,” Prather says.

Lily Lieberman is an intern for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at news@santansun.com.

Phoenix Bikefest at Wild Horse Pass delivers concert headliners in April

The three-day Phoenix Bikefest at Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino’s new festival park is set to bring rockers The Cult on its Electric 13 Concert Tour, Friday, April 4, and Sammy Hagar, the “Red Rocker” and his “Four Decades of Rock” performance Saturday, April 5. The two rockers headline jam-packed highlights of concert entrainment beginning at 5 p.m. both evenings.

In addition, the official Post Party on Saturday night includes a performance by Metalhead at the Ovations LIVE! Showroom at Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino. It is walking distance from the Phoenix Bikefest site, and free to Sammy Hagar concert ticketholders.

Area Harley-Davidson Dealers, in conjunction with R Entertainment Co., will deliver the rockin’ concert entertainment along with the first Phoenix Bikefest “Ride through Experience,” a gateway entry designed to create a parade of arriving bikes, which onlookers can enjoy throughout the day. Phoenix Bikefest is free. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. The only ticketed portion of the three-day event is the evening concerts.

Concert tickets range from $25 general admission (standing) to reserved seating from $50 to $75. Tickets can be purchased by visiting, www.phoenixbikefest.com or by phone at (866) 977-6849. A $5 discount is available on general admission tickets only when fans visit participating Valley Harley-Davidson dealers. A discount of $5 is also available at Wild Horse Pass Casino box office.

Phoenix Bikefest campsites are available for fans at Wild Horse Pass Motor Sports Park,

which is adjacent to the Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino. Reservations can be made at www. PhoenixBikeFest.com.

“Phoenix Bikefest promises to be a fantastic biker experience free to the public, and transformed into a rockin’ concert venue in the evening,” says Barry Caraway, Phoenix Bikefest coordinator, and publisher of Cyclerides.com. “Plus with the optimum location of the new Festival Park at Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, Phoenix Bikefest delivers the makings of one fantastic weekend.”

Phoenix Bikefest is presented by Valley Harley-Davidson dealers including Arrowhead Harley-Davidson, Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson, Chandler Harley-Davidson, Chester’s HarleyDavison, Superstition Harley-Davidson and RideNow Powersports, along with Caraway.

Phoenix Bikefest also features participants: Indian Motorcycle, BMW, Aprilia, Ducati, KTM, Moto Guzzi, Triumph, Can Am, Polaris, Suzuki, Yamaha and Spyder.

Guests are welcome to test ride the latest and greatest in the motorcycle industry, including the new 2014 Harley-Davidson lineup and the 2014 Can-Am Sypder RT. Guests can stroll and enjoy the event grounds as well as the nearby 100,000 square foot Wild Horse Pass Casino.

Among weekend highlights are food, drink, vendors of all kinds, a Bike Show and live concert entertainment.

For information to participate as a vendor, contact Barry Caraway at barry@phoenixbikefest. com or visit www.phoenixbikefest.com. Also, like Phoenix Bikefest on Facebook, www.facebook. com/phoenixbikefest.

Friends of the Sun Lakes Library will donate hearing induction loop system

The Sun Lakes Friends of the Library have made it possible for hearing-impaired patrons to participate in special events at the Ed Robson Library more fully by funding a $14,000 state-of-the-art technology enhancement. Becoming one of the East Valley’s first libraries to become equipped with this new feature, the branch has updated the Lecky Arts and Community Center adjoining the library with a hearing induction loop system, which uses electromagnetic energy to transmit sound directly into a hearing aid.

On Monday, March 17, the Friends of the Library will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate this new technology, welcoming Maricopa County Supervisor Denny Barney, Maricopa County Library District officials, representatives of the Arizona Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the public. The open house will begin at 11:30 a.m. and the hearing induction loop system will be officially dedicated at 12 p.m. Part of the Maricopa County Library District, the Ed Robson Library, is located at 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. Its Friends of the Library chapter has been actively supporting the library since 1991, encouraging literacy, reading and community involvement.

“For nearly nine years, I have been privileged to be part of this group,” Friends of the Library President Linda Goth says. “Its members see

beyond the property lines of this library and we are dedicated to funding expenditures to improve the quality of our library. The new hearing induction loop system will be available to everyone who uses the Lecky Center, enhancing their library experience.”

Common in Europe, hearing loops transfer source sound to a hearing aid’s telecoil without interference or acoustic distortion, enabling hearing-impaired patrons to enjoy concerts, presentations and special events without amplified background noise. With prices ranging from $500 in a home theater to $18,000 in a larger venue, the technology is expensive, making it cost-prohibitive for many public and nonprofit facilities.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, participants are invited to join the Friends of the Library in welcoming award-winning author Anne Hillerman as the first presenter to utilize the hearing induction loop system. Based in Sante Fe, Hillerman has published eight works of nonfiction and writes weekly restaurant reviews for the Albuquerque Journal. Her first novel, “Spider Woman’s Daughter,” follows the trail of legendary Navajo detectives Leaphorn and Chee—created by her father, best-selling author Tony Hillerman.

“It is our pleasure to bring visiting authors like Hillerman to Sun Lakes,” Goth says. “We invited our guests to enjoy her 1 p.m. presentation.”

Complete wedding planning services offered through Cruise Planners

Couples-to-be are offered an opportunity to create their ultimate dream wedding through Destination Weddings by Cruise Planners/ American Express franchise owner Maria Corchuelo, a home-based travel adviser located in Chandler. The complete wedding planning services are for shore-side ceremonies and celebrations in ports of call around the globe.

The new wedding planning services is a partnership between Cruise Planners/American Express and Imagine Weddings and Events, an international full-service wedding and event company.

Corchuelo can coordinate all reservations for destination wedding travel, as well as the wedding ceremony packages, honeymoon travel and reservations for family and friends through this partnership. Couples can rest easy knowing all logistics for their destination wedding from the rehearsal dinner and welcome reception to ceremony and other celebrations will be handled by Imagine’s expert wedding specialist.

“The destination wedding market is growing at a rapid pace and I’m thrilled to be able to offer this service to my clients,” Corchuelo says. “It really is an added benefit for my clients as they will be able to work with someone they trust who knows the destinations and can easily manage all the arrangements.

“I want to be that one-stop travel agent for all of my clients. By introducing this new service, I can combine my expertise in travel services with Imagine’s extraordinary wedding planning capabilities so couples-to-be can bask in the happiest time of their lives.”

The partnership with Imagine follows a recent collaboration with www.honeymoonwishes.com, an online honeymoon wedding registry provider. Engaged couples can register their wedding travel and honeymoon activities directly at www.joyatsea.com as wedding gifts directly through Corchuelo’s personal registry website.

For more information, visit www.joyatsea.com or call (480) 219-7070.

Neighbors

Sign up for Chandler Parks and Recreation Department mailing list

When posting on social media use “Come Out and Play Chandler” and #FunInChandler while visiting Chandler parks, recreation facilities and aquatic centers. Sign up for the Chandler Parks and Recreation newsletter and stay up to date with activities at www.chandleraz.gov/ listserv. Enter your email address in the Parks and Recreation Newsletter opt-in box.

Break Time recreation guide

available

Registration for spring classes, March, April and May, are being accepted. Such programs and classes, as leisure and lifestyle are offered for all ages. Hip-hop and jazz classes, jazz classes for preschoolers, personal training at the Tumbleweed Recreation Center and the SRC Kids Clubhouse are among some of the new sessions. Stress-free structured child care is offered at the clubhouse at an affordable price at the Snedigar Recreation Center on Friday nights.

Intersession camps for youth, adult sports league, swim lessons and senior center activities are among some of the returning favorites. These activities are offered at various locations and times throughout the city. Printed copies of the quarterly Break Time Recreation Guide are available at numerous city facilities. Visit www. chandleraz.gov/breaktime for an electronic version.

Register at www.chandleraz.gov/

registration, by mail or in person at Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave.; Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd.; Snedigar Recreation Center, 4500 S. Basha Rd.; or Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd.

Registration for swim programs can be done in person at the Aquatics Administrative offices, 650 E. Ryan Rd., Chandler.

Call (480) 782-2727, for more information.

Chandler Environmental Education Center activities

To receive updates and status of programs, call the Environmental Education Center hotline at (480) 782-2889. The center is at 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., within Veterans Oasis Park.

Spring Training game at new Cubs facility

Join the senior center to watch a Cubs game at the new training facility at 11:30 a.m. Monday, March 17. The Cubs play the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Tickets are $26 for residents and $35 for nonresidents.

Snedigar Recreation Center Walking Club

The Walking Group, which is open to anyone interested in walking, staying active and not doing it alone, offers dates throughout the month of March for all skill levels.

The club meets on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. through March 31. It is $31 for residents and $42 for nonresidents. Other times are offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:45 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. through March 27. Cost is $28 for residents and $38 for nonresidents. Bring a bottle of water.

Belly Dancing at Snedigar Recreation Center

Do you want to learn to belly dance? The Snedigar Recreation Center is offering classes on Wednesdays until April 9 for $22 for residents and $30 for nonresidents.

A Belly Dance Mother and Daughter class, which teaches basic belly dance moves with a parent or guardian, will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The class is geared toward girls 9 years old and older.

Belly Dance Drills class will be held. Get a great low-impact workout while focusing on learning the foundational belly dance movements and variations at your own pace during a Belly Dance Drills class from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The class is an open level class.

Students will learn and have the opportunity to perform choreographed dance that fuses traditional belly dance movements with elements from other dance styles during the Belly Dance Fusion Class. The class will take place from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Adult Sports spring registration

Get back in the game. Adult Sports spring registration begins Monday, March 24. For more information, call Teo Ruiz at (480) 782-2704 or visit www.chandleraz.gov/adultsports.

Chandler Tennis Center registration for spring session classes and leagues

Spring session classes and leagues are now enrolling at the Chandler Tennis Center beginning the week of Monday, March 24. Spring is fast approaching and the youth and adult classes are filling up. For a fun and exciting way to take in the beautiful weather and promote fitness, check out our leagues and lessons. Classes start at age 4.

Building Blocks

The Building Blocks, a preschool program, will begin on March 24. The Monday, Wednesday and Friday programs are $167 for residents and $226 for nonresidents. The Tuesday and Thursday program is $111 for residents and $150 for nonresidents. Children ages 4 to 5 years old have the opportunity to grow and develop, socially and educationally, during this program. Each subject is creatively expanded in detail to help build the foundation for your child’s classroom experience. Children must be 4 years old by March 24 and must be potty trained. No diapers or pull-ups allowed. The Chandler Community Center is located at 125 E. Commonwealth Ave.

Neighbors

Kick Start to Kindergarten

Kick Start to Kindergarten kicks off from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tuesday, March 25. Cost is $191 for residents and $258 for nonresidents. There is a supply fee of $50. This class will help 3 to 5 year olds prepare for school in a well-rounded, fun and imaginative preschool setting. The class will focus on scholastics, encouraging creativity and developing fine motor skills through fun arts and crafts projects. Children must by potty trained.

The Chandler Community Center is located at 125 E. Commonwealth Ave.

Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home will take place from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, at the Environmental Education Center. Cost is $5 for residents and $7 for nonresidents. Ever wonder how animals live in the desert? Explore different desert habitats found in Veterans Oasis Park and discover the animals that live there through stories, songs, walks and crafts. Children ages 3 to 6 will observe animals in their natural environments and learn about how animals live. Fee is per child, and parents are invited to attend.

The Environmental Education Center is located at 4050 E. Chandler Heights.

Fossil Fools Day

Learn about the effects of fossil fuels on our environment and alternative energy resources through activities and displays during Fossil Fools Day from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 1, at the Environmental Education Center. This event is free and

open to all ages.

The Environmental Education Center is located at 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd..

Come Alive Story Time with Ms. Diana

Come Alive Story Time with Ms. Diana will take place on Wednesdays until March 26 at Snedigar Recreation Center, 4500 S. Basha Rd. The program is held from 1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. Cost is $13 for residents and $18 for nonresidents. Encourage the joy of reading and the fun of laughter. Music and stories are an important part of shaping a child’s life. Through interactive stories, music, games and drama, we build positive attitudes, characters, self-esteem and values.

Youth Spring Break Camp

The second week of Youth Spring Break Camp will take place from Monday, March 17 to Friday, March 21. A full-day is offered from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. for $128 for residents and $173 for nonresidents. Morning halfday is offered from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. for $87 for residents and $117 for nonresidents. Afternoon half-day is offered from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. for $87 for residents and $118 for nonresidents.

To ensure a safe, fun and active spring break, enroll your kids in Snedigar’s Youth Spring Break Camp. Qualified staff will engage kids, ages 5 to 12 years old, in sports, games and arts and crafts. Camps are drop-in programs and participants may come and go at their own volition during the session for which they are registered.

Jr. High Dance

The Jr. High Dance will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, March 21. Cost is $5 for residents and $8 for nonresidents. The Chandler Teen Programs will host a dance for junior high students, sixth to eighth grade. Come and hang out with us, as we play great music, have several contests and enjoy pizza and drinks. For more information contact Manny Padia at (480) 782-2746 or manuel.padia@ chandleraz.gov.

Teen Dodgeball League

The Teen Dodgeball League will meet from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 28, through Wednesday, April 9. The team fee is $50. Does your team have what it takes to be the dodgeball champs? Join us for a Friday night dodgeball league built just for teens, ages 12 to 17. We will play a six-week season with an end-of-season tournament. You must register as a team to participate. Contact League Coordinator Manny Padia at (480) 782-2746 or by email at manuel.padia@chandleraz.gov for more information.

Therapeutic Walking Club

The Therapeutic Walking Club will meet from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesdays April 2 through April 30 at Desert Breeze Park Ramadas. Cost is $3 for residents and $5 for nonresidents. If you love to walk, like to socialize, want someone to help you exercise more, or just want to enjoy the spring weather, then the walking club is just for you. Wonderful activities are offered for ages 12 and older.

Saturday Adult Bowling

Saturday Adult Bowling will be held on Saturdays, May 17 through Aug. 2 at Chandler AMF Lanes. All registration fees are paid by RAD. There is a $7 weekly bowling fee. Throughout the season we will have drawings for gift cards and each week, you will participate in three games of bowling. The last day will include pizza for bowlers and treats for all. This activity is geared for ages 18 and older.

Tumble Tots

The Tumbleweed Recreation Center is offering Tumble Tots on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Tree house and on Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the West Gym. Cost is $2 for residents and $3 for nonresidents. This indoor play area is designed for children 5 years of age and younger to play with parent/ guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean indoor play area has plenty of toys and equipment that will keep the kids entertained.

Personal Training at Tumbleweed Recreation Center

Make wellness your priority and get fit the right way at the Tumbleweed Recreation Center. Personal training options include 30 and 60 minute one-onone sessions and small group training. Call the TRC at (480) 782-2900 to schedule a session.

Sonoran Sunset Series

The free Sonoran Sunset Series, “The Knockabouts,” will be held from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 20, at Veterans Oasis Park. The series features live, lakeside entertainment suitable for the entire family. Participants may bring blankets, chairs, or food and should dress warmly on cool evenings. In case of inclement weather, the performance will be held inside the Environmental Education Center. Call the EEC Program hotline at (480) 782-2889 for updates.

2014 Family Easter Celebration

The free 2014 Family Easter Celebration will take place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, April 19, at Snedigar Sportsplex. The Easter Egg Scrambles start at 10:30 a.m. for all kids up to 9 years of age. In addition to the egg hunts, there will be information booths, displays, interactive amusements and performances. At 11:30 a.m. there is a Family Easter Basket GiveAway. The event is free, with minimal charges for some interactive activities and photos with the Easter Bunny. For more information, call the City Special Event Line at (480) 782-2735 or go to www. chandleraz.gov/special-events.

TERMITE INSPECTIONS, TREATMENTS AND WARRANTIES

Call for entries for Mom Entrepreneur of the Year Award

The Mom-e Club, a Gilbert-based, international networking organization, is accepting video entries from mom entrepreneurs across the nation looking to inspire others through their own entrepreneurial journey for the Mom Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

Mom entrepreneurs, regardless of what stage their children or business are in, are encouraged to enter by submitting a 2- to 3-minute video by March 31. Once videos are judged, The Mom-e Club will announce its top 10 finalists and even record a professional video complimentary for local finalists courtesy of sponsor BASIX Media. Videos are then displayed on The Mom-e Club website for the nation to vote on.

The winner will be determined by the number of unique votes received. Once the voting period ends, The Mom-e Club recognizes its top 10 finalists on stage at its annual Mom Entrepreneur Celebration slated for Thursday, May 8, at the Arizona Historical Society Museum in Tempe before Mother’s Day, and awards its winner with a sash, tiara, roses and all.

“I’m incredibly passionate about this event,” says Tisha Marie Pelletier, founder of The Mom-e Club and creator of the Annual Mom Entrepreneur Celebration.

“Mom entrepreneurs need to be recognized and this is the best way I know to applaud them in front of their peers and families for all they’ve accomplished. This year is even more special to me as we’re

celebrating a milestone. It’s the fifth year of hosting this event and sharing the stories of 50 incredibly talented, determined women. If you’re looking for inspiration from real women, this is definitely the place to be.”

Past award winners include Karen Nowicki of Chandler, Shannon Rozas of Mesa, Dr. Susan Wilder of Scottsdale and Angela Harrolle of Chandler. For eligibility requirements and additional details on how to enter the contest, or to attend or become a vendor at the May event, contact Pelletier at tisha@mom-eclub.com or visit www.momeclub.com/thecontest.

Family Season Pass sale ends March 16 for aquatic facilities

Receive a 15-percent discount on a Family Season Pass when you purchase a pass before Sunday, March 16. Passes are $95 for admission to all six aquatic centers for a family of four, $13 for each additional member, all summer long. Family Season Passes are available to Chandler residents and are valid March through November.

Mesquite and Hamilton hours

Mesquite Groves is open from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday during March and Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through March 21. The play structure is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 25 through March 28 and the play pool area is open 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the same days.

Hamilton is open from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. March 17 through March 22 for spring break.

Spring lessons and sessions

Registration is open for March and April sessions for the learn-to-swim classes. To register, visit www.chandleraz. gov/registration.

Spring Session 3 will take place at Hamilton and Mesquite Groves on Saturdays from March 29 to April 19. Mesquite Groves will also have a Tuesday and Thursday evening Spring Session 3 through March 27.

Spring Session 4 will take place at Arrowhead Pool on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from March 24 through April 4. This free session will be taught by water safety instructor candidates, thanks to a sponsorship from SRP.

Youth Stroke Development

This program is designed to be an introductory experience for swimmers

ages 8 to 18 interested in swimming on a team. Instructors will provide fi tness swimming workouts, including drills, to prepare swimmers for a recreational swim team experience.

The freestyle, backstroke, starts and turns will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Arrowhead Pool from 5 p.m. to 5:50 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 6:50 p.m. April 8 through April 25.

Adult Beginner and Adult Stroke Development classes

Adults need lessons too. The City of Chandler offers several different class types designed around your needs; whether you are learning how to swim or looking to improve your stroke technique and endurance, there are classes designed specifically for the adult learner. It’s never too late to learn to swim or become a better swimmer.

The teen adult beginner class will be held at Hamilton Aquatic 9 a.m. to 9:50 a.m. Saturdays March 29 through April 19. the adult stroke development classes will be held at Mesquite Groves from6 p.m. to 6:50 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays until March 27.

Aqua Fit classes return

Aqua Fit classes are back. Cost is $35 for residents and $48 for nonresidents. Drop-in fees are $5 for residents and $7 for nonresidents space permitting. All classes are 50 minutes. Participants must be 16 years or older. Fee is based on eight classes. Classes will be canceled three days prior to start of class date if minimal enrollment required is not met.

Aqua Fit Shallow, 3.5- to 5-feet deep, includes walking, running, jumping and a variety of aerobic movements performed in the shallow end of the

Celebrate spring break at Rawhide

Celebrate spring break at Rawhide Western Town with gunfights, explosions, daring falls and all the antics of the Arizona Roughride from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday, March 19, through Sunday, March 23, and from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, through Sunday, March 30.

Rawhide Western Town offers a full schedule of activities for all ages. Enjoy a hay ride, the petting zoo, panning for gold,

shooting gallery, gun fights, stunt shows, live country music, a real blacksmith and more.

Admission to Rawhide is free. Individual attraction tickets are $4.95 plus tax each. Town pass, one-day unlimited usage wristband, is $14.95 plus tax.

Rawhide is located at 5700 W. North Loop Rd., Chandler. For more information call (480) 502-5600 or visit www.rawhide.com.

pool to increase heart rate and provide a cardiovascular and strength training workout. A variety of water equipment is used for conditioning and total body toning, includes stretching, warm-up, cardio, toning and cool down. Shoes are required.

Aqua Fit Deep uses deep water jogging and exercises to challenge and strengthen the entire body including the core. This class is held in 6- to 12-feet of water, in a vertical position, feet not touching the bottom to improve overall fitness. Flotation belts, noodles and other equipment are used but comfort in the water is recommended.

The upcoming sessions will be held 7 p.m. to 7:50 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday through March 27. For more information call Mesquite Groves at (480) 782-2635 or (480) 782-2636.

Free admission for gently used swim suit or U.S. Coast Guard

fl otation device

Get free admission to Mesquite Groves during spring break, until March 22, by bringing in a swimsuit or U.S. Coast Guard approved flotation device. One swimsuit equals one free admission to pool; one U.S. Coast Guard approved flotation device equals one free family admission to pool.

American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor Course

This course trains instructor’s candidates to teach water safety, including the basic water rescue course, six levels of the progressive to learn swim program and parent and child aquatics.

This is a 43-hour course and includes five hours of F.I.T. course and eight hours of instructor candidate practice teaching time. Cost is $103 for residents and $127 for nonresidents.

Prerequisites include: demonstrate proficiency in front crawl, back crawl, breaststroke, elementary backstroke, sidestroke and the butterfly; maintain position on back for one minute in deep water, tread water for one minute and must be 16 years old by the last day of the class.

The next session will be held at Arrowhead Pool on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from March 17 to April 4.

Private Pool Rentals

Looking forward to an upcoming birthday party, office party, family gathering, church outing or family reunion? Aquatic facilities are rented outside of public swim hours on Saturdays and Sundays May 3 through Aug. 24. Rent a pool by calling Sheri Passey at (480) 782-2753.

Serious Scribes seeking new members

The Serious Scribes, a Chandler critique writers group, is looking for new members. The group asks for serious mature writers who can devote two Fridays a month from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. It meets at the Coffee Cove in Gilbert, which is on the north side of Warner and Gilbert roads. We accept all genres, except porn. All the owner asks is that everyone make a purchase while we meet. Any questions email mistilove@aol. com.

Apple Dumpling Café

3076 E. Chandler Heights Rd. Suite 101, Gilbert (480) 279-3879

www.appledumplingcafe.com

Here’s the deal: Mondays are Family Value night, where kids eat free with each adult meal and two drinks purchased. On Family Fun night, kids receive free ice cream with a meal. After school coolness is from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, where kids buy one ice cream, and get one free

Chompie’s

3481 W. Frye Rd., Chandler (480) 398-3008

www.chompies.com

Here’s the deal: All day Tuesday, children 10 and younger receive one free item from the kids’ meal menu with adult meal purchase of $8 or more. Dine in only.

Connect5 Family Centers Corp.

222 E. Warner Rd., Chandler (480) 699-2122

1495 S. Higley Rd., Gilbert (480) 361-8410

Here’s the deal: Mondays and Fridays free kids’ meals with an adult purchase for Munchie Monday Free Lunch and Freebie Friday Free Dinner.

Copper Still - Moonshine Grill

2531 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101,

Gilbert (480) 242-1258

Neighbors

WHERE KIDS EAT FREE

www.CopperStillMoonshineGrill. com

Here’s the deal: Every Tuesday, 10 year old and younger, eat for free with the purchase of an adult meal.

Dilly’s Deli

2895 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 5, Chandler (480) 722-0644

www.dillysdeli.com

Here’s the deal: On weekends, get one free kids’ meal for each adult meal purchased for $4.79 or more.

El Palacio Restaurant & Cantina

2950 E. Germann Rd., Chandler (480) 802-5770

www.epchandler.com

Here’s the deal: Wednesday kids 12 and younger eat free with paid adult.

Fat Willy’s

4850 S. Gilbert Rd., Chandler (480) 883-1356

www.fatwillysaz.com/Chandler

Here’s the deal: From 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, dine in and get a free kids’ meal with every adult entrée purchased. Little Leaguers menu only, 12 and younger.

Nabers Music Bar and Eats

825 N. 54th St., Chandler (480) 705-0288

www.nabersaz.com

Here’s the deal: Kids eat free every Monday and Tuesday, with the purchase of an adult meal and two beverages.

Pittsburgh Willy’s

1509 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler (480) 857-2860

www.pittsburghwillys.com

Here’s the deal: Every day except Sunday breakfast, kids younger than 10 eat free with each paying adult. Additional kids eat for 50 percent off; Wee Willy menu only.

Planet Sub

1920 W. Germann Rd., Chandler (480) 245-6503

www.planetsub.com

Here’s the deal: Monday kids eat free with paid adult.

Sidelines Grill

2980 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler (480) 792-6965

www.sidelinesaz.com

Here’s the deal: Kids eat free from kids’ menu after 4 p.m. Thursdays with adult entree. Dine-in only. Cannot be combined with any other offers or specials.

Someburros!

3461 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 2597 S. Market St., Gilbert 1335 E. Baseline Rd., Gilbert www.someburros.com

Board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Interventional Cardiology, Nuclear Cardiology, Echocardiography & Cardiac CT

Focus on prevention and health maintenance

Evidence based treatment at a level of care that exceeds expectations

Bashar Markabawi, MD

Here’s the deal: Every Tuesday night from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. kids 12 and younger eat free with purchase of combo or specialty meal. Dine-in only.

The Cove Grill

5070 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 400, Chandler (480) 802-9070

www.thecovegrill.com

Here’s the deal: Tuesday kids younger than 12 receive one free meal per adult entrée purchased.

The Sushi Room

2475 W. Queen Creek Rd., Chandler (480) 821-9000

www.sushiroomaz.com

Here’s the deal: Sunday Funday means kids 12 and younger eat free, two kids per paying adult.

Uncle Bear’s Grill and Bar

1980 W. Germann Rd., Chandler (480) 722-1555 www.unclebearsgrillandbar.com

Here’s the deal: Wednesday kids eat free with each full price entrée purchased.

Whiskey Rose Bar and Grill

135 W. Ocotillo Rd. Chandler (480) 895-ROSE (7673) www.whiskeyrosesaloon.com

Here’s the deal: Kids eat free every day with the purchase of an adult entree and kids drink.

WHERE KIDS EAT FREE

The SanTan Sun News now has a regular “Where kids eat free” section.

Restaurant owners, please email us details such as days of the week kids can eat free at your establishment, and what conditions apply, such as purchase of an adult meal, certain hours, etc., Include your restaurant name, address, phone and website and a contact name for verification.

Readers, if you know of a location that has a kidseat-free program, email us with the restaurant name, a phone and / or email for confirmation and details. Email information to KidsEatFree@santansun.com.

Neighbors

NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKS

Call ahead to confirm information, as details occasionally change after print. If you have a recurring monthly meeting you would like listed in Neighborhood Networks, email complete details to News@SanTanSun.com. Note: The SanTan Sun News now has a Spiritual Connections column in the Spirituality section for ongoing religious-related events.

About Care

Monthly volunteer training, by individual appointment.

A nonprofit serving homebound Chandler and Gilbert residents; provides transportation, shopping and errands, friendly visits, reassurance phone calls, 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

Action Networkers: Business Networking International

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays Chompies

3841 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Marty Recht, (602) 3152056, 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; no preregistration required.

Chandler Regional Hospital, Morrison Building, Learning Resource Room

1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Mindy, (602) 528-0545, ext. 201

Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter, Gilbert

1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. first and third Friday of the month Support group for caregivers of people with dementia. Free; no preregistration required.

First United Methodist Church of Gilbert

331 S. Cooper Rd., Gilbert Info: Mindy, (602) 528-0545, ext. 201

American Legion James O. Schroeder Post 55 7 p.m. third Tuesday of the month

Sun Lakes Country Club, Navajo Room

25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes

Info: Commander Byron Weston, (480) 802-6623

American Society of Women Accountants, Mesa East Valley Chapter

5:30 p.m. fourth Tuesday of the 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

Business Referral Exchange Worldwide (BREW) 12 p.m.-1:30 p.m. first and third Thursday 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 the 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

WebXtra:

Chandler Airport Commission

7 p.m. second Wednesday of the month

The Commission makes recommendations to 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 the 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, 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 the month Area residents are invited to come join like-minded volunteers and make new friends.

Atria Chandler Villas, Community Room 101 S. Yucca St., Chandler Info: RuthJon Wick, (480) 895-3569, az1ruthjon@q.com

For a complete list of SanTan Sun area clubs, associations and networking groups, visit www.SanTanSun.com and click on “Neighbors” to read Neighborhood Networks.

Buy-one, get-one free premium Angus burger deal at Chompie’s

Mouth-watering buy-one get-one free burger deal is being offered at Chompie’s, Arizona’s NY Deli, for the Cactus League spring training season.

After 3 p.m., seven days a week, through Sunday, March 30, diners can buy-one, get-one free any charbroiled half pound of premium Angus beef burger of equal or lesser value, with the purchase of two burgers. The charbroiled burgers are extra fl avorful and are served on a fresh-baked sesame brioche bun, accompanied by Chompie’s famous homemade coleslaw and fries.

Cheese, bacon, fried egg and pastrami toppings can be added to customize your burger at an additional cost.

The Classic Borenstein burger, the original grilled patty melt, chipotle ranch burger, Texas longhorn burger, sourdough patty melt and the Baja burger are other choices.

The offer is not valid on St. Patrick’s Day, Monday, March 17. The offer serves two guests; dine-in only. No substitutions. Not valid with promotional gift cards or any other coupons, discounts or offers.

Adam Richman of the Travel Channel’s popular show, “Man vs. Food” made Chompie’s famous.

Chompie’s is located at Chandler

Village Center, 3481 W. Frye Rd. For more information, visit www.chompies. com.

Chompie’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration

An All-You-Can-Eat Corned Beef Feast will be part of the Chompie’s St. Paddy’s Day celebration.

The annual feast will be served from 11 a.m. to close. It includes Chompie’s specially seasoned and slow-roasted corned beef, boiled red potatoes, cabbage and fresh baked Irish soda bread for $18.99. The special is for dinein only.

A single-serving complete corned beef meal and a special dessert for $15.99 for takeout or dine in is another special offered. Also offered is Chompie’s fresh baked St. Patrick’s themed backed goods including cookies, cupcakes, cakes, green bagels and Irish soda bread.

The specials are only available on St. Patrick’s Day, Monday, March 17. Beer, wine, cocktails and a variety of drinks, including Chompie’s famous Brooklyn, N.Y.-style egg creams are also available.

For more information, visit www. chompies.com. All locations are participating.

CRUISE-In for Veterans Car and Motorcycle Show

The American Legion Post 97, in San Tan Valley, has announced plans for a Cruise-In for the Veterans Car and Motorcycle Show to be held Saturday, April 26, at the Olive Mill in Queen Creek.

The fundraiser will feature classic, custom, street rod, muscle car and truck vehicles and motorcycles.

The admission to the public is free. Tickets are available for raffle prizes. The event will feature vendors, live music, food and drink, free wine tasting and more. Parking is free.

Trophies will be awarded by peers for first, second and third place in 13 categories, which include motorcycle and specialty military transportation. The entry fee is $25 for those who preregister. It includes a free dash plaque and show T-shirt. Onsite entries are $30 with a dash plaque and T-shirt available upon purchase.

Sponsorships including Title Sponsor, trophy sponsors and vendor booths are available on a first-come basis. Only one vendor per company, brand, is allowed and no food vendors can participate.

The event will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with trophies awarded at 2 p.m. Special guests and local personalities are expected. This is a family event to support not only American Legion

Post 97, but also San Tan Youth Programs, including six American Legion Baseball teams the post sponsors, as well as other programs for veterans, their families, and the community at large.

American Legion Baseball works with 14 to 19 year olds from Poston Butte, Combs, San Tan Foothills, and other high schools in Pinal County to provide leadership skills and activities during the summer months.

“The youth of our generation must be supported and provided with programs that will encourage teamwork, instill confidence, and provide activities to keep them focused,” Commander of Post 97 Alan Pease says.

The Peases hope to build a community center in San Tan Valley through a foundation being formed by Post 97. All funds derived from this event go directly to ongoing or new programs for veterans and the community. For information on registering your vehicles, sponsorships and vendor booths, contact Jeffrey A. Kramer at (480) 250-4445 or marketingpro@cox.net.

Ozzie Smith, Budweiser Clydesdales take over downtown Chandler

Downtown Chandler played host to Hall of Fame shortstop Ozzie Smith and the infamous Budweiser Clydesdales on Wednesday, March 5. In an effort to make Opening Day a national holiday, Smith and Budweiser filmed a commercial in the streets of Chandler. STSN photos by Tracy House