8 16 2014 stsn p41 50 neighbors

Neighbors

Child-abuse coalition achieves nonprofit status

BY TRACY HOUSE

The Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Coalition is striving to educate the public about the importance of reporting child abuse. Now it can get a little help.

Founded shortly after the Aug. 31, 2009, murder of 3-year-old Schala Vera, the organization has achieved nonprofit status allowing it to receive donations.

“We’ll be able to grow the organization,” explains Kendra Davis, the coalition’s public relations/social media officer.

“It’s going to allow us to grow, continue to advertise, create pamphlets, and sometimes videos, that we pass on to the public so they know how to report. They know the signs that they need to look for when reporting.”

Davis is a school counselor at Chandler Unified School District’s Navarrete Elementary School. Initially, she was a coalition counselor, but now she sits on its board. Other members of the coalition include representatives from the Chandler Police Department, Chandler Fire Health and Medical and the FBI.

“Basically, we try to educate the community,” Davis says.

“We speak at events about the importance of reporting—anything suspicious at all. We’re trying to raise awareness, not just of our mandatory reporters in the schools and the medical profession reporting, but also the public.”

The coalition was founded by the Chandler Police Department, but Davis says, the organization has grown to include agencies Valleywide. By attending events such as Phoenix Suns games, the coalition is publicly trying to raise the importance of reporting child abuse.

“It’s hard to measure exactly what our impact has been, but we do know that reports are up a lot higher than they were in 2009,” she adds. Child Protective Services is taking reporting more seriously than in recent years, Davis stresses.

“They’re also trying to increase services that can be given to the families.”

The more than 30 member organizations work together in reporting. The coalition reaches across Maricopa County and rural communities, with professionals from the fields of health care, school districts, law enforcement, social services, emergency services, domestic violence advocates, media, county and U.S. attorneys, community members, nonprofit groups, faith-based groups, victim services and child advocacy groups.

SEE CHILD-ABUSE COALITION PAGE 44

Center for Living Well offers teacher training next month

Rockin’ Taco Street Fest returns to Chandler

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

Beach sand and an array of family-friendly activities will become part of the desert next month during the Rockin’ Taco Street Fest, a special Mexican Independence Day event, at El Palacio Restaurant and Cantina of Chandler.

“It’s always been very family friendly,” says Jen Pruett of HDE Agency, the event’s producer. Pruett adds that celebrating Mexican Independence Day is important to El Palacio’s owner, Anthony Serrano. The celebration is set for 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, at the restaurant, 2950 E. Germann Rd.

“We have added several new fun components and changed things up a bit from

Foundation recruiting golfers for tourney

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

Golfers are being sought for the Chandler Education Foundation’s annual tournament, which benefits students and teachers of the Chandler Unified School District.

Steve Hewitt, the CUSD’s director of community education and a Chandler Education Foundation executive board member, says the foundation wanted to host a fundraiser for the district, so it decided on a golf tournament.

The money raised from the event supports student scholarships and grants for teachers,

previous years,” she explains. Last year the event attracted about 1,000

Photographer heads to Peru to work with children

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

Traveling abroad for the first time can be a little daunting—especially if family is being left behind. But Rachel Tabron is passionate about her trip and volunteering.

The Chandler photographer is traveling to Cusco, Peru, with a friend on Aug. 22, to volunteer at an orphanage helping youngsters with their daily activities and keeping them entertained.

“We will start in the morning around 7 and it goes to about 4 p.m., and then we will have the evening to kind of explore and hang out in the volunteer house,” she explains. “I’m sure I will be able to see a little bit of the area and take a million pictures.”

Tabron says she is looking forward to seeing a different culture and showing her three small children what it is like to be a child in a different area in the world.

“I think this is the one that will get me hooked,” she explains. “They have so many different areas in the world to choose from. I have my second and third one already picked out.”

Tabron got the bug to volunteer abroad after researching programs online and stumbling upon International Volunteer HQ. She and her friend decided to sign up in the spring.

“I feel really good about the program,” she says. “I am super

impressed with how they have it all set up.”

Although there are many different locations from which to choose, Tabron says South America stuck out for the both of them.

“You look at it and read about it. You just know,” she says of the destination.

International Volunteer HQ Program Coordinator Chelsea Green says they place volunteers in 25 countries.

“We have volunteer placement in Argentina, Bali, Brazil, Cambodia, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Ghana, Guatemala, India, Kenya, Madagascar, Mexico, Morocco, Nepal, Peru, South

people. This year’s theme is “Find Your Beach.”

“We’re going to create a beach-like paradise right here in the desert complete with sand, sun and surf,” says Serrano in a press release. He was unavailable for comment.

“We want everyone to come on out and enjoy a day at the beach—chill out under the cabanas, play games, sip on margaritas and relax.”

One of the new features for the event is a salsa competition where attendees will vote for their favorite flavor. Pruett says entrants must prepare enough salsa to distribute 250 1-ounce samples. Booth space and tasting cups will be provided.

Those interested in the competition must preregister by calling the HDE Agency at (602) 276-2499.

“There is no cost; they just need to contact HDE Agency,” she says.

The first-place winner will receive a $50 gift card; the secondplace prize is a $25 gift card; and the third-place winner will receive a $10 gift card to El Palacio.

The festival will have inflatable water slides, a taco-eating contest, mustache competition and live entertainment.

The local dance group Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli-AZ will teach attendees about the Mexican culture through folkloric dance. The nonprofit organization will receive a portion of the proceeds.

“They will have some of the girls go out and perform a dance,” Pruett says.

The street-taco station will be bigger this year as well, offering more choices of meat and toppings. She says it will be buffet style, where individuals will make their own tacos. Tickets can be purchased online at www.rockintacoaz.com or by visiting El Palacio. Admission is $5; free for children 12 and younger.

Pruett says those who purchase tickets will be entered into a contest to win a trip to Ensenada. Additional raffle tickets can be purchased for $5, or two for $8.

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

allows further education for teachers and backs the Chandler Care Center. The latter provides dental and medical care to underinsured and underserved children.

Last year the foundation provided more than $100,000 in scholarships, more than $50,000 for inclassroom scholarships and approximately $10,000 for teachers furthering their education.

This year, the 13th annual golf tournament will be on Friday, Sept. 5, at Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass, 5692 W. North Loop Rd., Chandler. The scramble has a shotgun start of 7:30 a.m.

“We usually fill the tournament up,” explains Hewitt, who adds that 292 players have participated for the last three years.

The 28-year-old Chandler Education Foundation will use The Devils Claw and The Cattail courses at the event, allowing almost 300 players to register.

The cost is $1,200 for a four-person team, and $125 for individual golfers. Team registration includes the sponsorship of the tournament, recognition at the event, tee box signs, continental breakfast, golf, lunch, silent auction and prizes from the tournament.

The tournament also includes a raffle for a variety of items, including Ping golf clubs. There are also contests for the longest drive, longest putt and closest to the hole, as well as team prizes.

“It’s a good day of golf,” Hewitt says.

Those interested in registering, should visit the Chandler Education Foundation’s website at wwww. chandleredfoundation.org, or by calling Lea Anne Thomas at (480) 224-3030. Registration is requested by Friday, Aug. 29.

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

The Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Coalition will be hosting its annual memorial for Shala at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 29, in the chapel at Mercy Gilbert Hospital, 3533 S. Val Vista Dr., Gilbert.

“The first responders see a lot,” Davis says. “These people still show up for her memorial because they were so affected by what happened and the serious condition she was in. People were so impacted by this. These are people who deal with it every day, but this was very extreme.”

As a result of this tragedy, Davis says, “We realized there was a need—that we needed to stop the child homicides that were occurring.” “We needed to do more, because in most of the cases, neighbors did know something was going on but nobody ever called.”

Davis adds that the “sky’s the limit now” for the nonprofit’s tasks.

“We didn’t have very much funding before,” she says. “We’ve hired an attorney and now we’re going to be able to do more than we have in the past.”

Contact the Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Coalition at www.facebook. com/AzCAPAC/info for more information or to donate. To report abuse, call the local police or 9-1-1.

Tracy House is the news editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at tracy@santansun.com.

Neighbors

Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Vietnam and Zambia,” she explains.

While Tabron volunteers in Cusco, she will stay with other volunteers in a home or with a local family.

“The volunteer house can accommodate 20 to 22 volunteers, while the home stays can range in size, although they typically accommodate between two to four volunteers,” Green explains.

“The local host families, who have been vetted by our local staff, are given money from volunteer program fees for providing support, food and board. It is exciting for volunteers to stay with a family. It allows them the opportunity to learn the Peruvian way of life, meet local people, eat local food, speak the local language and engage in local customs and traditions.”

Tabron is a newbie to traveling abroad, but not volunteering. She has clocked many hours in Iowa for the Humane Society and in Chandler for a homelesschildren program.

“Being a photographer, I can offer a service that they really can use,” says Tabron.

Follow Tabron’s journey on her Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ ArayaPhotographyAZ. For those interested in sponsoring Tabron visit www.gofundme. com/cuscoperu.

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

Pitta Souvli hosts Arizona reds wine tasting

Pitta Souvli is hosting a wine tasting from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, to taste Arizona reds. The owners are going to make some changes to their wine list and invite individuals to sample a few of the choices.

Also, Pitta Souvli is offering a Sunny Spinach Pie for $13. It is a buttered-and-baked, phyllo stuffed

pie with spinach, garlic, sun dried tomatoes, Greek dressing and three cheeses—halloumi, kefalogravieria and parmesan. This dish is perfect to share with three or more people as an appetizer or split as an entree and have a side salad or a couple of lamb skewers.

Pitta Souvli is located at 1940 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 5, Chandler.

Fundraiser to benefit ChandlerTullamore Sister Cities

Murphy’s Law Irish Pub and Ale House, in Downtown Chandler, is hosting a fundraiser for ChandlerTullamore Sister Cities from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9. The $50 price includes dinner for two, and $20 from every ticket goes to the Student Ambassador Program. There is a choice of appetizer, spinach and artichoke dip or Murphy’s cheese dip; choice of a main entree, grilled chicken sandwich, fish and chips, chicken veggie mac and cheese or pepperoni pizza; plus a choice of two beverages, a three-beer paddle,

glass of red sangria, chardonnay or unlimited Coca-Cola products.

Live entertainment will be provided. Tickets can be purchased at Murphy’s Law Irish Pub on the night of the event, but registration is requested on the website www.chandlerirish.org, so Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities can confirm attendance.

Murphy’s Law Irish Pub is located at 58 S. San Marcos Pl. For more information, contact Joan Speshock at (602) 909-4070 or vjspeshock@msn.com, instead of Murphy’s Law Irish Pub and Ale House.

professional and extremely patient, knowledgeable and ultimately found us our home in Scottsdale. We will recommend them to anyone buying or selling real estate.”

—Janet and Jon S. Scottsdale

Call Jason, Renee and Jen to get the process

Center for Living Well offers teacher training next month

The Center for Living Well, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit wellness ministry providing Christ-centered wellness education and training, has announced that teacher training will begin in September.

The Center for Living Well’s Yoga Ministry Leadership Training Program is designed for individuals who want to strengthen their yoga knowledge and practice, deepen their understanding of the Bible, teach Christ-centered yoga classes or lead a yoga ministry.

The training consists of a modular approach, where each module can be done independently or in succession. There are five 38-hour modules in total, each focusing on different elements of Christ-centered yoga ministry leadership development as follows: Module 1, Foundations of Faith and Yoga 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesdays, Sept. 9 through Sept. 30, online; Module 2, Pose Construction and Anatomy, a four-day camp from Oct. 15 through Oct. 19; Module 3, Class Design and Sequencing from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesdays Oct. 28 through Nov. 18, online; Module 4, Business, Marketing and Ministry Leadership, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesdays, Nov. 25 through Dec. 16 online; and Module 5, Teacher Practicum, a fourday camp from Jan. 28 through Feb. 1.

Each module includes 38 hours of instruction, personal practice and mandatory homework. The format of the program alternates between three modules of online instruction, and

two in-person yoga camps held in the Phoenix area. New instructors who successfully complete all five modules earn a designation as a Christ-centered yoga leader. The program is also open to existing instructors wishing to receive continuing education credits or pursue a (CCYL).

The cost for Module 1 is $500 and is required for those pursuing a CCYL designation. Instruction is provided in the following areas: introduction to the Bible; assimilating the word; yoga history; philosophy and theory; and breath work, mediation and prayer.

“Our program is unique in its approach to training in that we place equal emphasis on the fundamentals of yoga, Bible teaching and leadership,” says Dawn Rutledge, the executive director for the Center for Living Well.

“All of our instructors receive extensive education and must demonstrate proficiency in yoga theory, yoga pose construction and anatomy, class design and sequencing, teacher ethics and responsibilities and student safety and enjoyment. In addition, our teachers receive teaching in Bible history, foundations of faith and applied Bible study that fully equips them to read, understand, study and teach Scripture. Further, our teachers also receive training in business, marketing, ministry, servant leadership and discipleship to equip them for leadership. When they graduate, they

are fully equipped to teach classes, lead a Christ-centered yoga ministry in their church or community or even open a yoga studio.”

Weekly mentoring is provided to improve learning and retention, maintain accountability and provide ongoing support and education. Those interested in participating can apply online at www. centerforlivingwell.org/what-we-do/ training or request information via email at info@centerforlivingwell.org.

“My teacher training experience has been life changing,” says Paula Hudson, recent graduate of the CCYL program.

“After six years of searching for the right training program, God led me to the Center for Living Well. The course material helped me deepen my understanding of yoga and my relationship with God. The amount of love and support that I received throughout training is helping me become all I was created to be. The modules offered are devoted to deepening your relationship with God’s love to others through Christ-centered yoga. The information I received has laid a solid foundation on how to fully integrate my

faith with yoga and to teach confidently. Looking back I can see why there was a six-year delay. We serve a God that operates in excellence, and he wanted me in a program that would fully honor and glorify him.”

The Center for Living Well is a wellness ministry that helps individuals, couples and families find healing, wellness and wholeness through Christ-centered wellness programs, retreats and training.

The Center for Living Well is dedicated to providing tools which help people become a healthy and integrated self, dependent on God, in community with others. Program offerings include yoga teacher training, yoga and wellness retreats, yoga classes, yoga therapy, Thai yoga massage therapy, Reiki, Am I Hungry? mindful-eating classes and coaching, marriage and parenting classes, private counseling, prayer therapy and Bible study.

The Center for Living Well’s headquarters is located at 1655 W. Chandler Blvd., Suite 5, Chandler. For more information, visit www. centerforlivingwell.org, info@ centerforlivingwell.org or (480) 505-3825.

Free landscaping and irrigation classes offered

Free classes on how to transform a yard into a beautiful landscape utilizing attractive water-wise plants, as well as how to install and maintain irrigation systems, is being offered by the City of Chandler.

Chandler “Smart” Home—Tracking Down Sneaky Leaks, is among one of the new classes offered this fall for landscaping and irrigation classes.

“Leaks can account for thousands of gallons of water wasted in the home every year,” says Cathy Rymer, Chandler’s water conservation coordinator. “Fixing easily corrected leaks is not only a smart way to save water for the future, but homeowner’s can save money on their water bills.”

Although classes are free to Chandler utility customers, participants must register online at www.chandler.gov/water or by

calling (480) 782-3580.

From 6:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26, Basic Yard Makeovers will be held at Chandler City Hall, 175 S. Arizona Ave. The class will discuss how to prepare beds, choose plants and care for vegetables, herbs, fruits and citrus for a bountiful harvest.

The Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., will host Create Your Own Oasis from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, and Saturday, Sept. 20. Participants will learn the basics of landscaping in the desert during this two-part series. Such concepts as design, how to plan for small spaces, the desert plant palette, plant selection and plant combinations will be discussed.

The Chandler City Hall, 175 S. Arizona Ave., will be the location for Yard Watering

New college fitness center offers inexpensive options

The Chandler-Gilbert Community College Pecos Campus is now boasting a 4,000-square-foot fitness experience, dubbed the Coyote Center.

The center offers a full line of cardiovascular equipment, resistancetraining machines, a complete freeweight section with Olympic lifting platforms and an outdoor turf field. There is also a 1,800-square-foot group fitness room.

Community members can enroll in a noncredit class for $80 and have 15 weeks of access to the fitness center. If they sign up for the two-credit class, they’ll have access to the fitness center as well as be able to drop into any open group fitness class including yoga, Pilates, bootcamp fitness, stretch and relaxation, meditative yoga, tai chi and Zumba.

Members will have access to the staff who have advanced degrees in exercise science and personal training, or strength-and-conditioning certifications through accredited organizations, such as the American College of Sports Medicine, National Strength and Conditioning Association or National Academy of Sports Medicine.

Community College Pecos Campus is opening a fitness center on Tuesday, Sept. 2. Submitted photo

Other free services available to anyone who enrolls include exercise program design, blood pressure checks, body composition assessment, body circumference measurements, cardiovascular fitness assessment and muscular strength, endurance assessments.

The fitness center opens on Tuesday, Sept. 2. Hours will be from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a. m. to 5 p.m. Friday, and closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

For more information, call the fitness center at (480) 732-7200.

and Timer Instruction from 6 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 18. The class will touch upon how long, how much and when to water a landscape. Participants will learn how to program an irrigation timer using actual controllers (timers).

From 6 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, Irrigation Maintenance and Repair will be held at Chandler City Hall. Fall is a great time to tune up an irrigation system to improve efficiency and modify it for new plantings. This class will also touch upon troubleshooting and repairing a system that is causing a problem.

The Chandler City Hall will hold “Smart” Irrigation Controllers from 6 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, for those interested in using hands-off watering for their landscape. The class will discuss controllers that use

local weather conditions to apply water, which can help save up to 30 percent on landscape watering. Rebates of up to $250 are available.

From 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, Chandler “Smart” Home—Tracking Down Sneaky Leaks will be held at Chandler City Hall. Learn how to save water, energy and money with simple changes or repairs, water -saving devices and by optimizing rebates. A raffle drawing will also be held.

The final class, Pruning and Maintaining Your Landscape, will be held at Chandler City Hall, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, to discuss the most living elements of landscape, trees and shrubs. A certified arborist will teach proper plant selection, planting, staking and pruning techniques for the low desert.

Celebrate National Sandwich Month with Chompie’s

August is National Sandwich Month, and Chompie’s, Arizona’s New York Deli since 1979, is ready to celebrate with its huge selection of award-winning New York deli-style sandwiches made using the finest ingredients and authentic family recipes handed down through the generations.

Some of Chompie’s most popular sandwiches include: Mile High Hot Pastrami, its famous NY pastrami, baked with a secret blend of spices, then steamed to mouth-watering perfection; Classic Grandpa Ruby’s Reuben, choice of corned beef or pastrami, grilled sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and 1000 Island dressing on grilled rye; Stevie G’s 5-town Special, oven roasted turkey, bacon, avocado, jack cheese, lettuce, tomato and mayo on fresh baked multigrain bread; Mark’s Monte Cristo, oven roasted turkey, Boar’s Head ham, bacon, Swiss cheese, dipped in batter, fried crisp and served with strawberry jam; Wendy’s Favorite, oven-roasted turkey breast, Havarti cheese, fresh leaf lettuce and cranberry mayo served on cracked whole wheat bread; Jewish Sliders, Chompie’s mini challah rolls

Arizona police officers open luxury barbershop

Two honorably retired Arizona police officers have hung up their gun belts in exchange for barber shears. Carlos Gastelum and Javier Cota are the new founders of Vintage American Barbershops, a new breed of luxury barbershops. After a combined 47 years in public service, the duo is excited to take on a new role in the community.

“We are a unique business who still strive to give to the community by sponsoring local high school sports and families,” says Gastelum, also the company’s operations manager.

“Vintage American believes in strong family values, which is why we offer a twofor-one price on all our haircut and shaving services for any father-and-son duo that comes in to our shop,” says Administrative Manager Cota. “This provides for father and son bonding, a crucial element in strengthening families.”

Vintage American Barbershop is very unique in that it is located inside Seville Golf and Country Club in Gilbert. It is in fact, the only true full-service luxury barbershop located inside a country club in the East Valley.

Upscale barbershops have been on the rise since 2007, when men’s attitudes toward barbershops took a positive turn. Most men decided they no longer wanted manicures, but instead preferred straight razor shaves like grandpa used to get at the corner barbershop. So, Vintage American was created to meet the growing need.

To recapture that bygone era, Vintage America completely restored antique 1940s barber chairs.

“We use chairs that were manufactured in May 1942, while America was embroiled in the midst of World War II,” says Gastelum.

“It is amazing the resilience of these

chairs and how they have stood the test of time working perfectly fine after 70 years,” he adds.

Retired officer Gastelum was a school resource officer for the Mesa Police Department and worked with at-risk youths for four to five years. He also served as a burglary and auto theft detective. Prior to that, Gastelum worked as a community action team officer, solving neighborhood problems, repeated crimes and calls for service. He worked various stations in patrol. During his career, Gastelum was awarded numerous accommodations, medals and accolades for his work, including several lifesaving awards and teamwork awards. Gastelum retired honorably after 20 years of service to the public.

Retired Officer Cota worked for several Arizona police agencies, including the Mesa Police Department, the Pima

filled with moist lean brisket, minipotato pancakes and jack cheese; and Cajun Chicken Ecstasy, Cajun-spiced chicken breast, green chiles, jalapeno jack cheese, lettuce, tomato, chipotle ranch dressing, topped with crispy onion strings on a sesame brioche bun. Chompie’s makes its own sandwiches fresh with its baked-from-scratch breads, including double-baked Jewish rye, sourdough, multigrain and more. Chompie’s gluten-free friendly rolls, GFF bagels and low carb/high protein breads are also available for sandwiches. Sandwich prices vary. For more information, or to see the menu, visit www.Chompies.com.

County Sheriff’s Office in Ajo and Tucson, and the Pima College Campus Police in Tucson, with three main campuses and six satellite campuses. Cota worked numerous assignments, including detective, supervisor, school resource officer, explorer adviser, public relations, robbery and assaults, bait cars, pawn detail, burglary, recovered property, patrol, uniform committee, weapons committee, command staff committees and employee relations. He has attended numerous classes related to executive police leadership at both Harvard University and Michigan State University. Cota has received numerous awards, accolades and medals, including Commendation, lifesaving, leadership, detective of the month and teamwork awards. Cota retired after 27 honorable years in law enforcement.

Vintage American Barbershop is located at Seville Golf and Country Club, 6683 S. Clubhouse Dr., Bldg. 6659, Gilbert. For more information visit www.vabarbers.com.

ASU faculty member headed to Bulgaria in spring 2015

Dan Fellner, a faculty associate in the Interdisciplinary Humanities and Communication unit in the School of Letters and Science at Arizona State University’s Polytechnic Campus, has received a five-month Fulbright Scholar grant to teach in Bulgaria. The Chandler resident will instruct courses in journalism and communications at the American University in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria, during the spring semester of 2015.

This is Fellner’s third Fulbright Scholar grant to teach in Eastern Europe; his prior grants offered opportunities in Latvia and Moldova. Additionally, he has received two Fulbright Senior Specialist grants to teach at universities in Lithuania and Latvia, and has taught a one-week intensive course in communications four times at the Fulbright International Summer Institute in Bulgaria, including this month.

“I’ve been traveling to Eastern Europe since 1991 and have enjoyed witnessing firsthand such a dramatic transformation in the region since the fall of communism,” Fellner says. “Through the Fulbright program, I feel that I have learned so much about a fascinating and often misunderstood part of the world and have been able to share this expertise with my students at ASU.”

Fellner joined ASU as a faculty associate in 1998 and teaches courses in communications and English. Fellner also is a faculty affiliate with ASU’s Melikian Center for Russian, Eurasian and Eastern European Studies and teaches courses in Eastern Europe and travel writing for ASU’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. In 2011, he was named to the Road Scholars Speakers Bureau of the Arizona Humanities

GRANT RECIPIENT: Dan Fellner, a faculty associate in the Interdisciplinary Humanities and Communication unit in the School of Letters and Science at ASU’s Polytechnic Campus, has received a five-month Fulbright Scholar grant to teach in Bulgaria. Submitted photo

Council and gives presentations about Eastern Europe to audiences throughout Arizona.

Prior to joining ASU, Fellner worked in television news in four different cities and spent 10 years in corporate public relations as the spokesman for the Dow Chemical Co. He also works as a freelance travel writer and photographer and has had more than 60 travel articles published in various newspapers and magazines.

The prestigious Fulbright Scholar Program provides approximately 800 teaching and/or research grants to U.S. faculty and experienced professionals in a wide variety of academic and professional fields in more than 125 countries worldwide. It is funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. For more information, visit www.cies.org.

‘Celebrate 31’ with Baskin-Robbins

The “Celebrate 31” offer of $1.31 for regular 4 oz. scoops is available at participating Baskin-Robbins shops in the Valley from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, Friday, Oct. 31, and Wednesday, Dec. 31. The offer is valid on all of Baskin-Robbins’ ice cream flavors, including summer seasonal varieties as State Fair Fried Dough, Peanut Butter and Jelly, Tropical Vacation Frozen Yogurt and S’More the Merrier.

FIRE DEPARTMENT VOLUNTEERS FOR BACK-TOSCHOOL CLOTHING DRIVE

VOLUNTEERED: The Sun Lakes Fire Department’s union Local 3560 recently volunteered its time at the back-to-school clothing drive with the Stitches of Love organization in northern Phoenix. The clothing drive brought disadvantaged school children from around Arizona to Alhambra High School, where they received various clothing and school supplies to start the school year right. Pictured are Sun Lakes Fire Department members, Ari Barr, union President Ron Puchta, Nate Stringfellow with his son, Blake, and Brandon Johnson with his son, Ryder. Submitted photo

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 religiousrelated 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) 5701835, 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) 315-2056, Marty@AZMarty.com

Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter, Chandler

5:30 p.m. second Thursday of the month

Support group for caregivers of people with dementia. Free; 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

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.

Neighbors

Preregistration required online. Golf venue varies. Info: www.chandlerchamber.com

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

Chandler Rotary Club

12 p.m. Tuesdays

Dynamic, service-oriented group meeting for fellowship, lunch and informative programs on topics of global and local importance. Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort

One N. San Marcos Pl., Chandler Info: Kevin Dempsey, (480) 2162849, www.chandler-rotary.org

Chandler Young Professionals: Kiwanis

6 p.m.-8 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays of the month

For busy professionals who volunteer to primarily help the children of the world.

Iguana Mack’s

1371 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler Info: Jeremy McClymonds, (480) 241-7256, Jeremy@formprosperity. com, facebook.com/KiwanisCYP

Childfree Friends

First Thursday and third Saturday of the month Times and locations vary Fun social club giving couples and singles without children an opportunity to meet one another and participate in a variety of activities.

Info: www.childfree.meetup. com/274

Christian Business Networking, Tri-City Chapter: Chandler, Tempe, Mesa

7:15 a.m. Tuesdays

Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals. Crackers and Co. Café

535 W. Iron Ave., Mesa Info: Maia, 480-425-0624, christianbusinessnetworking.com

Christian Business Networking, Chandler Bi-Monthly Chapter

7:30 a.m. second and fourth Tuesdays of the month Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals.

Chandler Christian Church, Room B202

1825 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler

Info: Maia, (480) 425-0624, www. christianbusinessnetworking.com

Christian Business Networking, East Valley Chapter

7:30 a.m. Wednesdays Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals.

Mission Church Seminar Room

4450 E. Elliot Rd., Gilbert Info: Maia, (480) 425-0624, www. christianbusinessnetworking.com

Countryman Chapter of the Korean War Veterans Association

10 a.m. fourth Tuesday of the month

Sun Lakes Country Club, Friendship Room

25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes Info: Commander Joe Schneider, (480) 883-0122

East Valley Job Club

6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. last Monday of the month

Free group supporting the success of its members by talking candidly about job searching and career advancement. Open to the public.

Epiphany Lutheran Church, Room 325, South Campus

800 W. Ray Rd., Chandler Info: Jim, (480) 244-4953, evjobclub@gmail.com

East Valley Marines

7 p.m. second Tuesday of the month

Marine Corps League Detachment 1296; all Marines and FMF Corpsmen are welcome to help other Marines through social and charitable projects.

9240 S. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes Info: Chuck, (480) 250-0984, www. eastvalleymarines.org

Gilbert Art Walk

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays

Local art in variety of mediums for sale. All ages. Free. 45 W. Page Ave., Gilbert Info: www.gilbertartwalk.com

Memory Care Support Group

Support for those caring for a loved one with a memory loss disease such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Hosted by Copper Creek Inn Memory Care of Chandler. 10 a.m. second Tuesday every month

Copper Creek Inn Community 2200 W. Fairview St., Chandler 10 a.m. fourth Friday every month Chandler Senior Center 202 E. Boston St., Chandler Info: (480) 634-4191

Moms Club of Chandler East

For stay-at-home moms who live between McQueen and Gilbert roads and between Chandler and Ocotillo roads; see blog for full boundaries.

Playgroups, park days, special outings for kids, a monthly moms’ night out and more.

Info: www.momsclubchandlereast. blogspot.com, momsclubchandlereast@gmail.com

Mom Club of Chandler San Tan

For stay-at-home moms who live between McQueen and Greenfield roads and between Ocotillo Road and Hunt Highway. Weekly get-togethers, outings for moms and kids, moms’ night out and more.

Info: www.

momsclubchandlersantan.webs. com, momsclubchandlersantan@ gmail.com

Mom Club of Chandler-Ocotillo North

Open to stay-at-home moms who live between Dobson and McQueen roads and between Queen Creek and Ocotillo roads.

Age-appropriate playgroups, fun weekly activities, monthly Recipe Club and moms’ night out, plus community support events throughout the year.

Info: www.

momsclubchandlerocotillonorth. com, ocotillonorth@yahoo.com

Mom-e Club Chandler 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m. second Wednesday of the month

Monthly networking group designed for local mom entrepreneurs to build business relationships and learn from others in similar situations.

Floridino’s Pizza 590 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler Info: www.mom-eclub.com

Mom-e Club SE Gilbert Evening 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. third Wednesday of the month

Monthly networking group designed for local mom entrepreneurs to build business relationships and learn from others in similar situations.

Total Wine, SanTan Village 2224 E. Williams Field Rd., Gilbert Info: www.mom-eclub.com

Mom-e Club SE Gilbert Morning 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m. first Thursday of the month

Monthly networking group designed for local mom entrepreneurs to build business relationships and learn from others in similar situations.

Designer Cakes by April 2743 S. Market St., Suite 104, Gilbert Info: www.mom-eclub.com

National Charity League, Inc., San Tan Chapter NCL fosters mother-daughter relationships in a philanthropic organization committed to community service, leadership development and cultural experiences. Daughters must currently be in sixth through ninth grades.

Info: Suzanne, suzannepetty19@

347 Grill

Ak-Chin

16000 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa (520) 233-2426

www.ultrastarakchin.com

Here’s the deal: Sunday Brunch 6 and younger eat free with paid adult. On Tuesdays, all kids 12 and younger eat free with purchase of adult entree.

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

Neighbors

WHERE KIDS EAT FREE

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

www.CopperStillMoonshineGrill. com

Here’s the deal: Every Tuesday, kids ages 10 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 and 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

Volunteers sought for East Valley Food Day

East Valley Food Day is a free event to celebrate healthy, affordable and sustainable food as part of Gangplank’s Health and Local Initiatives.

Individuals looking for a worthy opportunity to use their talent and skills while collaborating to build community and awareness through celebration are invited. Help create an event of real food, live entertainment, learning, art and people celebrating one of the most basic needs as human beings.

A meeting will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 18, for those who would like to volunteer

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.

NYPD Pizza

2580 W. Chandler Blvd, Chandler (480) 722-0898

www.aznypdpizza.com

Here’s the deal: Kids eat for free on Wednesday and Sunday after 4 p.m.

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

at Gangplank, 260 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. The event is scheduled for Oct. 24,

For more information, contact Trudi at eastvalleyfoodday@gmail.com.

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

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 Tuesday and Sunday with purchase of an adult entree.

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.

WHAT’S IT WORTH?

The summer is upon us and, with temperatures in the 100s, I am sure you would like the opportunity to get away for a long weekend to a “cool” vacation spot. You can generate that extra cash to enjoy this break by using an asset you already own.

Is there something in your safety deposit box, garage, a drawer or maybe on a wall in your home that has value and can be converted to cash? Take some time and look for this asset that no longer is bringing you pleasure or is not appreciating and find out “What’s it worth.”

There are experts who have the capability to evaluate collectables, jewelry, art, etc. through research and market knowledge who will provide the estimated value of your

item. There are consignment stores on every corner that will take the item and attempt to find buyers. There is also the Internet, which is becoming a mall and shopping center. The valuables that before were not readily saleable now can be sold 24 hours a day. But first you need to have the experts determine a value. From this point, the marketplace will determine the true selling price. Also ask the experts if they are possible buyers of the assets. It will expedite the conversion of the item to cash. Please take the time on one of these hot days to search for valuables that can be converted to funds for a break from the heat. Remember there are experts and buyers who want to assist!

— David Goldstein Owner, Biltmore Loan and Jewelry

Glide into fun at Skateland

Offering a cool respite from the Arizona heat, Skateland in Chandler is a family fun destination that offers entertainment. Lace up a pair of skates, enjoy the music, get a little exercise and glide around the rink for summer enjoyment. STSN photos by Tim Sealy