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Neighbors

Craft beer specialist brings fun, informative show to the web

BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

Don’t let the British accent fool you. Although James Swann grew up in England, he is considered an honorary Arizonan by his friends and diehard beer fans. His latest endeavor, the web show “Adventures in Brew,” is equal parts informative, cheeky, fun and educational—and encompasses all things beer.

Beer has always been “a thing” for Swann.

“I’ve grown up working in bars, restaurants and pubs all my life ... and, as a youngster, all I wanted to do was drink the beer,” says Swann with a laugh.

Most recently, after a decade of touring as a musician and working at Whole Foods in Chandler, Swann circled back to Scott Kelly of Black Dog Promotions, who had helped him promote his music. Kelly encouraged Swann to delve into his love of beer via production television.

“We began filming and writing about six months back,” Swann notes.

The pilot episode is “in the can.”

“We began at The Hungry Monk (Chandler) where we interviewed Steve Sierra from Deschutes Brewery (Bend, OR) then Steve McFate from FATE Brewing (Scottsdale) and comic Travis Thurman (with Crescent Crown Distributing). Then we hopped on to the Arizona Brewery Tours bus over to SanTan Brewing for a tour and a chat with Gabe Wilson, the head brewer.”

In another fun segment in the pilot, Swann and company took part in a keg-rolling race at The Hungry Monk while trying to not spill a mug of beer held over their heads.

“You’re literally holding four pints of beer over your head and then rolling a keg down the street and trying not to spill it all over yourself,” Swann explains.

“The idea is to really make it sort of a ‘variety show’ of beer, if you will,” states Swann. “There will always be a review of one particular beer that happens to be hot at the time. There will always be a brewery tour—the coolest, hottest or newest brewery.”

Additionally, there will be interviews with brewery owners and brewmasters and a fun, beer-centered challenge of some sort. Swann has big aspirations for “Adventures in Brew.”

“You, know where I’d really like to see myself? As a Netflix-only show sitting right next to Kevin Spacey with ‘House of Cards,’” Swann says.

“If I could sit right next to Kevin Spacey, I’d feel like I’ve accomplished everything in the world.”

Every great show host needs a co-host or sidekick that is game

Wagner juggles business, marriage and motherhood

BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

Being a successful woman can encompass many different components. One woman in Chandler helps to run a well-respected business, co-owns a restaurant and is a busy mother and wife.

Misti Wagner has been a Valley staple for nearly 15 years. She acts as a primary talent coordinator at Dani’s Agency, co-owns Spices Mediterranean Kitchen with husband, Etgar, and is doting mom to a busy 5-year-old son.

As one of the busiest talent agencies in the state, Dani’s Agency was founded by Wagner’s mother, Dani Green. Wagner had her first taste of performing at age 7 when she was booked into commercials, television shows and for voice-over

Owner expands business into Chandler

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

After more than five years in business, AlphaGraphics of Gilbert owner Brandon Bagley is expanding his services into Chandler with a new facility.

Bagley purchased a building in Chandler and received the permits in early August. He is targeting a late-November grand opening for the location that will predominantly be used as a production facility.

“I always wanted to be able to service an area that I live in,” he says. “A year ago in July my wife and I moved to Chandler. We lived in Tempe before that.”

Bagley says his vision came to fruition in a few months.

“I want to make sure I am giving back to the individuals that I live with and who are my neighbors,” he says.

Bagley stumbled into this line of work. He realized he enjoys working with other businesses and helping them grow by finding out-of-the-box solutions. AlphaGraphics acts as a marketing partner for its clients, a creative resource to produce what they need.

Those services, Bagley says, run the gamut because AlphaGraphics works with businesses ranging from mom-and-pop shops to larger entities.

“How I help our clients, is growing their business and trying to find new ways and new applications to do that more successfully and efficiently,” he explains.

The franchised business, which celebrated its fifth anniversary in February, is young but its employees carry a lot of experience, Bagley explains.

work. She learned the ins and outs of the industry, and started working at the agency part time in high school. In the early 2000s she began booking talent and helping run the agency.

“In 2003, after years of working as talent and with talent, I spoke with several legitimate SAG and AFTRA talent agents about all the companies

“We have 93 years of experience within AlphaGraphics,” he says. “That is a lot of experience. That is an average of 11 1/2 years of experience per person.”

Due to the culture of employees, a new company motto was recently implemented— “Do good work, take care of our customers and have fun.”

“We believe in those three things,” he says. Bagley recently added three new staff members to his team—a general manager and two outside sales representatives, which he says will help the business dramatically. His efforts to help others goes beyond his business. Bagley is a board member for ICAN, a nonprofit organization in Chandler founded 22 years ago to help youth get off the street.

Neighbors

Affordable family fun at Greek Festival

The 30th semi-annual Greek Festival of Chandler is being held Oct. 4-6 at St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church, 2716 N. Dobson Rd. in Chandler, just south of Elliott and Dobson roads. Proceeds will benefit the church and related philanthropic activities and community charities.

Offered are traditional Greek foods, Greek imports, live Greek music, costumed folk dancing and a Kids Fun Zone.

Hours are 5 to 10 p.m. on Fri. Oct. 4, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sat., Oct. 5 and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sun., Oct. 6. Admission is $3 per person and children younger than 12 are free. For more information, visit ATasteOFGreeceAZ.com.

The Perfect Place

The Perfect Place, an adult day care and nonprofit organization, provides a place for loved ones to spend a morning and afternoon with staff and volunteers participating in social programs.

Two restaurants offer El Palacio Grande

El Palacio, 2950 E. Germann Rd., and Pittsburgh Willy’s, 1509 N. Arizona Ave., combined their salsa and hot dogs to offer the public a quarter pound all-beef dog, mild green chilies, smoked bacon, guacamole, cheddar cheese and picante salsa for its El Palacio Grande throughout the month of September.

“I’m a big fan of Randy’s (Walters, owner of Pittsburgh Willy’s) hot dogs and I know he loves my salsa, so we figured it was time for a fun collaboration,” El Palacio Owner and Head Chef Anthony Serrano says.

Programs

The morning program begins with a short devotion. Afterward everyone shares some information about where they grew up, what they did for a living, family life or favorite activities. Once everyone gets to know one another they have the opportunity to play cards, bingo, partake in a bean bag toss, enjoy entertainment, snacks and a short session of chair exercises.

Inspired hot dogs

Nine Mexican cuisine inspired hot dogs will make their return to the El Palacio menu again this year during football season. Those include the chimichanga dog; carnitas dog; fajita dog; enchilada dog; green chili dog and the traditional and shrimp cocktail dog.

Pittsburgh Willy’s will offer pints of El Palacio’s award winning salsa for purchase. Patrons also have the chance to enjoy the NFL Sunday Ticket, craft beer specials and a $18.95 fajita dinner for two every Sunday at El Palacio.

Customers can enjoy El Palacio’s hot dogs during their hours of 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. For information, visit epchandler.com or call 480-802-5770.

Pittsburgh Willy’s hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday and 11

Those who believe their family or caregiver would benefit from the service, contact Judy Waltersdorf at 480-895-2892, ext. 2 or send an email to theperfectplace85248@gmail.com.

Contributions

Service organizations or individuals are invited to make a donation towards their scholarship fund. Beanie Babies, that will enable the organization to

a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. For information call 480-857-2860 or visit pittsburghwillys.com.

better serve the community, are also welcome. Volunteers are also needed for A Perfect Place.

A Perfect Place, 23914 S. Alma School Rd., Sun Lakes, will begin its new hours from 9 a.m. to noon Monday and Wednesday and from 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday and Friday in October.

Paisley Pumpkin festivals are free to the public

All three festivals, Holiday Festival, Holiday Street Fair and Holiday Balloon Glow & Bazaar are free for the public.

Each event will raise funds for Hope Kids Arizona, which provides ongoing events, activities and a support community for families who have a child with cancer or another lifethreatening medical condition.

Raffles will be held at 5:30 p.m. during each event. Tickets are $1 each or six for $5. More than 100 raffle prizes will be given away at each event. Winners do not have to be present.

Holiday Festival

Paisley Pumpkin presents its third annual Holiday Festival from 10 a.m. to 6

p.m. Sat., Oct. 26 at Dana Park in Gilbert. The event will include entertainment from local bands and performing groups, bounce houses, inflatable obstacle course, train rides, a pumpkin giveaway and more. One hundred exhibitor booth spaces are available for crafters, artisans and local businesses will be set up in the parking lot near Pei Wei.

Holiday Street Fair

The Paisley Pumpkin will host its third annual Holiday Street Fair at SanTan Village in Gilbert from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sat., Nov. 16. The 70 vendors will be set up on the streets near Victoria’s Secret and Coach. Entertainment for the

kids will also be a part of the festivities. Holiday Balloon Glow & Bazaar

The third annual Holiday Balloon Glow & Bazaar, which Paisley Pumpkin is helping to organize, will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sat., Dec. 7 at the SanTan Village. More than a dozen hot air balloons will light up the night sky during the event. The festivities will also showcase 80 vendors that individuals can shop from, food, kids’ activities, carriage rides, Santa, toy drive, music and a glow sky diver finale.

For information about the events email Kelly at thepaisleypumpkin@ yahoo.com or visit ThePaisleyPumpkin. com.

Sundown Cookout

The Sundown Cookout at Rawhide Western Town and Steakhouse will be held Sat., Oct. 19; Sat., Nov. 16; Sat., Feb. 22; Sat., March 15; Sat., April 19 and Sat., May 10.

The Sundown Cookout will feature mesquite grilled steak, ribs or chicken, cowboy beans, potatoes and old timer’s bread. The whole family will enjoy such activities as live country music and entertainment, tales of the Old West, line dancing, cowboy games and a marshmallow roast.

Tickets are $79.99 for persons 12 years old and older, and $34.99 for children 12 years and older. Reservations can be made by calling 480-502-5600 ext. 1148 or by emailing reso@rawhide.com.

Rawhide Western Town & Steakhouse is located on the Gila River Indian Community, 5700 W. N. Loop Rd., Chandler. It is Arizona’s largest 1880s westernthemed family entertainment venue and steak house.

Library receives grant from Target

The Chandler Public Library received a $2,000 grant from Target, to help it continue promoting literacy at every age through a Family Book Club.

“At Target, we are committed to serving local communities where we do business,” President of Community Relations for Target Laysha Ward says. “That’s why we are proud to partner with the Chandler Public Library as we work to strengthen communities and enrich the lives of our guests and team members.”

Target’s grant is an ongoing effort to build strong, safe and healthy communities across the country. The company’s long history of giving 5% of its profits to communities, equals more than $4 million every week. Target is on track to give $1 billion by the end of 2015 for

Free

A free prostate cancer seminar is scheduled at Ocotillo Golf Resort, 3751 S. Clubhouse Dr., Chandler, from 6 to 8 p.m. Tue., Oct. 8.

educational programs to help kids learn, schools teach and parents and caring adults engage.

Family Book Club

The Family Book Club is targeted for families with children 3 to 10 years old. The club, which began meeting monthly on Sept. 14, gathers at 10 a.m. to provide parents with the tools they need to become more engaged with their child’s learning, as well as fostering a love of reading. The monthly, hour-long meetings will feature time reading aloud and fun games and prizes. Participants will also

receive a Family Reading Kit to take home, which includes a book, snack, stickers, bookmarks and coloring and activity sheets.

“We continually look for new ways to reach out to young families who may not be familiar with our services to ensure that their children develop literacy skills that will help them to be successful in school. We appreciate that Target supports us in this endeavor,” Chandler Public Library Manager Brenda Brown says.

The Family Book club is held at the Chandler Downtown Library, 22 S. Delaware St.

Registration is required for the yearlong program by calling 480-782-2800 or visiting chandlerlibrary.org.

prostate cancer seminar Briar Patch Marketplace

Attendees will learn about the new prostate cancer screening guidelines and whether a screening is right for them.

The American Urological Association recommends that all men understand the risks and benefits of early detection and treatment of

prostate cancer before screening. It’s a personal decision and one that should be discussed with an individual’s doctor.

Registration is required due to limited seating. To reserve a spot call ResourceLink at 480-728-5414.

The seminar is sponsored by Dignity Health and Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers.

Recipe competition at Arizona State Fair

Preregistration, which is required for the Arizona State Fair recipe competition must be completed by Wed., Sept. 25. For complete details visit asstatefair.com or call 602-257-7140.

Scratch Bakers Cookie Challenge

Those who participate in the Scratch Bakers Cookie Challenge must make cookies from scratch using Gold Medal flour. The challenge will be judged at 2 p.m. Sat., Oct. 12 with the top finishers receiving $100, $50 and $25 for the cookies appearance, flavor and texture.

Sweet-Treats for Sweet-Hears contest<<Meghan checked the PR and it says Hears

Participants are asked to create the

tastiest, most creative and eye catching entries for the Sweet-Treats for SweetHears contest first category, which will be judged at 7 p.m. Wed., Oct. 16. The winners will receive $125, $50 and $25. The second category, best bite size treats, will be awarded an extra $100 for the creative use of Karo Syrup, taste, presentation and preparation.

Family Favorite Recipe Contest

Individuals who enter the Family Favorite Recipe Contest must use Bisquick mix to reinvent a classic appetizer or revitalize an everyday meal. It will be judged at 5 p.m. Sun., Oct. 20. Winners will receive $100, $50 and $25 for its appearance, flavor and texture.

Great American SPAM Championship

The Briar Patch Marketplace will feature home and patio decor items, holiday decor, jewelry, unique clothing, crafts, pottery and folk art. Specialty foods, yard art and boutique fashions and baby items will also make up this year’s marketplace from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat., Sept. 28 and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun., Sept. 29 at Hamilton High School, 3700 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. For more details, call 480-948-3942 or visit briarpatchmarketplace.com.

Entries for the returning challenge, Great American SPAM Championship, are asked to make the most spectacular SPAM sandwich. The judging will take place at 5 p.m. Sat., Oct. 26 and prizes will amount up to $150 for first place, blue ribbons and a chance at winning the grand prize trip to the SPAM Jam Waikiki Festival. The contest, which focuses on taste, creativity and presentation using 10 ingredients or less is open to children and adults.

This year the Arizona State Fair will grace the grounds of 1826 W. McDowell Rd., in Phoenix from Fri., Oct. 11 through Sun., Nov. 3.

Three pools remain open

Hamilton Aquatic Center, 3838 S. Arizona Ave., Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center, 5901 S. Hillcrest Dr. and Nozomi Aquatic Center, 250 S. Kyrene Rd., will remain open, due to the Arizona heat continuing until late October.

Swim hours

Hamilton Aquatic Center hours are from noon to 5 p.m. Sept. 21, 22, 28, 29, 30 and Oct. 6.

Nozomi Aquatic Center hours are from noon to 5 p.m. on Sept. 21 and 22. Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center is open from noon to 5 p.m. through Oct. 13. It is also open from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday from Oct. 14 through Nov. 17 and from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday from Oct. 14 through Nov. 17.

Fall sessions

A new fall semi-private lesson will be held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center from Sept. 24 through Oct. 10. Resident and nonresident registration is open until Mon., Sept. 23.

Oct. 14 and nonresident registration is open from Fri., Oct. 4 through Mon., Oct. 14.

Swim programs

Fall session 2 is scheduled on Saturdays at Hamilton and Mesquite Groves Aquatic Centers from Oct. 12 through Nov. 2. Resident registration is open from Tue., Oct. 1 through Mon., Oct. 14 and nonresident registration is open from Fri., Oct. 4 through Mon., Oct. 14.

Fall session 3 will be held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center from Oct. 15 through Oct. 31. Resident registration is open from Tue., Oct. 1 through Mon.,

Free Sonoran Sunset concert continues

The free one-hour Sonoran Sunset Series at Chandler Veterans Oasis Park will continue Oct. 17, Nov. 21, Dec. 19, March 20 and April 17.

In cases of inclement weather, performances are held indoors at the park’s Environmental Education Center. For information about the concerts visit chandleraz.gov/ veterans-oasis.

A 55 cent American Red Cross fee has been added to all learn to swim fees. Those who want to register their child for the swim lessons can visit any of the pools during public swim hours to have their child tested for the appropriate level.

Lap swimming

Lap swim continues year round from 5:30 to 7:30 a.m. Monday through Thursday at Hamilton Aquatic Center and from 7 to 9 p.m. at Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center. Admission is $2 per visit regardless of age. Be sure to purchase a punch pass to save 5 to 30% each visit or an annual pass for only $200 valid at both locations.

An adult group practice is offered at the Hamilton Aquatic Center at 5:30 a.m. to help improve endurance and speed. A coach is available at 6:30 a.m. for individuals to refine their stroke and improve form and technique.

Admission

Admission is $1 for children, $2.25 for adults, $1.25 for seniors and children younger than 2 are free. Punch passes are available to Chandler residents and never expire. A child’s punch ticket is $2.50 for five visits, $10 for 20 visits and $15 for 30 visits. An adult’s punch ticket is $7.50 for five visits, $30 for 20 punches and $45 for 30 visits. For more information visit chandleraz.gov/aquatics.

14th annual BARKtoberfest set for Oct. 12 at Gilbert Town Center

The Friends for Life Animal Rescue’s 14th annual BARKtoberfest is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sat., Oct. 12 at the Gilbert Town Center, 50 E. Civic Center Dr. The event is free, with small donations required for some activities. Funds raised from the event aid in saving

the lives of homeless dogs and cats in the community. Those who have adopted a dog from Friends for Life will participate in the Alumni Parade at noon.

Additional details can be found at azfriends.org.

The City of Chandler’s Fall Break Time class schedules can be found at City of Chandler facilities or online at chandleraz.gov/breaktime. Individuals can also sign up for the Parks & Recreation Newsletter at chandleraz. gov/listserv.html to receive updates.

Building blocks

Classes for children, who are at least 3 years and potty trained, can participate in the Building Blocks classes, 9 to 11 a.m. or noon to 2 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays or Tuesdays and Thursdays. The class is $167 for residents and $226 for nonresidents for the three-day program or $111 for residents and $150 for nonresidents for the two-day program. The classes are held at the Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., in downtown Chandler.

Circuit Bootcamp

The new exercise class, Circuit Bootcamp, is for beginners or intermediates. The class offers a

Neighbors

combination of high-intensity and muscle-building exercise rotations to burn fat, increase agility and improve cardiovascular health. The class, which is held from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursdays continues through Oct. 10. Another series runs Oct. 17 through Nov. 14. Class is held at the Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., in downtown Chandler.

Bedtime stories

The Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler is holding Bedtime Stories with Nocturnal Animals from 4 to 4:45 p.m., Fri., Sept. 27. Cost is $6 for residents and $9 for nonresidents.

Morning Yoga Flow

Morning Yoga Flow welcomes all levels for the 9 to 10 a.m. slowflow class through Sept. 30. The class emphasizes basic postures and practices of strength, fl exibility and balance. Registration is $31 per resident or $34 per nonresident for the class, at the Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Participants are asked to bring a mat or beach towel.

Snedigar Recreation Center

Games and crafts are offered for parents who wish to run errands or have a date night at SRC Kids Clubhouse from 6 to 10:30 p.m. on Fridays through Nov. 8. Cost is $37 per resident or $50 per nonresident for 1.5 hours maximum

per day or $104 per resident or $141 per nonresident for 4.5 hours maximum per day. Children must be potty trained. Fall Break Camp will kick off for youth ages 5 to 12, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 30 through Oct. 4 and again on Oct. 7 through Oct. 11. Cost is $128 for residents or $173 for nonresidents for full day, or $87 for residents and $118 for nonresidents for half day.

A Babysitting Safety Plus CPR/ AED Certification class will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tue., Oct. 1. Registration is $12 for residents and $17 for nonresidents. A $17 instructor fee and $74 supply fee also applies.

Snedigar Recreation Center is at 4500 S. Basha Rd. in Chandler.

Tumbleweed Recreation Center

Bikes, Bounce and Boogie is providing a morning of fun for children 5 years and younger who can enjoy bikes, pedal cars, trikes, pedal push cars, a bounce house and music with parental or guardian supervision from 9 to 11 a.m. Wed., Sept. 25. The fee is included in all TRC family passes; nonpass holders pay $2 per resident or $3 per nonresident.

The TRC Basketball Clinic, 1 to 4 p.m. Sept, 21, Oct. 12 and Nov. 23, requires pre-registration. The clinic is $8 per resident or $11 per nonresident. Such skills as shooting, ball handling and defensive skills are offered at the oneday clinic.

Visit chandleraz.gov/breaktime for more information.

FAR BELOW RETAIL PRICING!

Isabel’s Amor set to open next month

Gilbert restaurant, Isabel’s Amor, an eatery that makes dishes from scratch, is scheduled to open in October.

Nana Isabel, the woman after whom the restaurant is named, is the matriarch of the Vasquez family who fed her family and neighbors her recipes for the past three generations.

“Growing up, Nana Isabel’s recipes were the center point of every celebration and happy occasion,” coowner of Isabel’s Amor Tim Vasquez says. “We have wanted to serve Isabel’s beloved dishes in a comfortable, homey setting for years and my family and I are excited to see it come to fruition. We hope that Isabel’s Amor will create loving experiences and memories for all patrons, just like Nana Isabel’s cooking always did for us.”

Isabel’s Amor will seat 50 individuals in its warm wood finished interior and 48 people on the airy, yet intimate patio. Such freshly made menu items as tender, slow cooked chilis, flavorful carnitas, homemade tamales and tortas and flour tortillas will be served at the eatery.

Isabel’s Amor is located at 1790 E. Williams Field Rd., in Gilbert. For more information visit IsablesAmor.com.

Workshop features ‘green’ plumbing

Topics include landscape and irrigation

John Smith, winner of the U.S. Green Plumber of the Year Award two years in a row and the Southwest Region Green Plumber of the Year Award in 2013, is leading workshops in “green” plumbing during the Chandler fall lineup of landscaping and irrigation classes. Information about green plumbing technologies and techniques that save water will be discussed.

The “Water Wise Edible Gardening” workshop, along with his presentation will teach homeowners how to install and maintain residential landscape and irrigation systems, as well as plant colorful water-wise plants and save water inside the home.

The classes are scheduled to take

place at Chandler City Hall, 175 N. Arizona Ave., and Chandler’s Downtown Library, 22 S. Delaware St. The two Chandler “Smart” Landscaping classes will be held in Chandler’s Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd.

Chandler SMART Landscaping

The series, “Chandler SMART Landscaping,” will take place from 9 a.m. to noon Sat., Sept. 21 at Chandler’s Environmental Education Center and again on Sat., Oct. 5 and Sat., Oct. 12 at Chandler City Hall. The class will educate attendees of the basics of landscaping the desert, including concepts on design, the desert plant palette, plant selection, plant combinations and how to plan for small spaces.

Pruning and Maintaining Your Landscape

“Pruning and Maintaining Your Landscape,” will be held from 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. Tue., Sept. 24 at Chandler Downtown Library. The most important living elements of a landscape are trees and shrubs. Proper plant selection, planting, staking and pruning techniques for the low desert will be discussed by a certified arborist.

Water-Smart Workshops

“Sprinkle Design & Installation,” will be held Thu., Oct. 10; “Drip Irrigation Installation,” will be held Thu., Oct. 17; “Yard Watering & Timer Programming,” will be held Thu., Oct. 24 and “Smart’ Irrigation Controllers,” will take place Thu., Nov. 7. All classes are offered from 6 to 8:45 p.m. at Chandler City Hall. The classes are free for Chandler utility customers. Preregistration must be done by calling 480-782-3580 or by visiting chandleraz. gov/water.

Halloween candy purchased and donated to troops

Aspen Orthodontics and Impressions

Dental are hosting their sixth Halloween Buy Back event from 3 to 7 p.m. Fri., Nov. 1. The event will be held at Impressions

Dental, 5970 S. Cooper Rd., Chandler.

The partnership began to encourage children to bring their leftover Halloween candy to the office and earn $1 for every pound donated, which does not include a limit.

An additional 50 cents per pound donated will be given to the Chandler School District. All of the candy donated will go toward Operation Gratitude, a program run by the California Army National Guard.

Many Chandler businesses, area attractions and well-known corporations will offer certificates such as Red Robin, Rubio’s, Dunkin Donuts, Pei Wei, Cold Stone Creamery and Jamba Juice, to

those who attend. Each participant will receive a raffle ticket, good for $1,000 off dental and orthodontics treatment.

A bounce house, cotton candy and the opportunity to sign a personalized card to the troops will also be a part of the festivities. The kids will also walk away with other goodies such as toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss.

The mayor, local firemen, policemen and active and retired military men and women will be in attendance.

“We understand that Halloween is a time for fun, but we want to add a different dimension to Halloween,” Dr. Stephen D. Hunsaker, of Aspen Orthodontics, says. “We want to help children keep their beautiful smiles, but also reach out to the military that so graciously serves our country.”

to play along. That role went to local actress and personality Kimber Leigh, who is also a huge beer fan.

“That lady is amazing. When Scott brought me on board, he said, ‘Write the scripts and write for you and your cohost, give me your shot sequences and give me your locations,’” Swann says.

Leigh helped Swann with some of the finer points surrounding the various production facets of “Adventures in Brew.”

“(She’s) the most knowledgeable, patient, understanding woman I’ve ever met. I’ve learned more from Kimber about how to shoot a television show and how to be an actor in two months than I have learned in my entire life.”

Leigh was just as quick to point out Swann’s expertise. “You are not going to find another person in Arizona who knows more about craft beer than James Swann. Not only is his knowledge for beer untouchable, he is unique, uplifting and just a fun, fun guy,” Leigh states.

It is the fun mixture of industry knowledge, beer silliness and beer crafting expertise that makes “Adventures in Brew” a potentially fantastic offering for prime-time television.

“It will wind up on YouTube...but the idea is to shop it to networks,” Swann explains. Until then, viewers can catch it on kingjamesbrew.com.

“When times get tough in the world, people like to tune into programs that take their minds off the negative,” Leigh explains. “The show ‘Adventures in Brew’

does just that. I am looking forward to my personal journey on every episode as their correspondent.”

Swann, who has penned beer-centric articles for local publications, previously worked at Whole Foods in Chandler as its beer specialist and creator of its Friday Beer Class. As such a respected voice in the beer community, Swann offers up his list of beer favorites.

“My favorite locally brewed beer is Hop Knot from Four Peaks. That’s an easy one—I absolutely adore that beer,” he says.

In terms of a pick-it-up-at-thegrocery-store type of beer, Swann singles out local brewery SanTan Brewing Company’s Devil’s Ale as the best choice.

Other breweries outside of the Valley that earn top marks from the beer guru include Lumberyard Brewing in Flagstaff and Dragoon Brewing and Borderlands Brewing Company in Tucson.

In addition to “Adventures in Brew” Swann will be opening a gastropub in downtown Chandler called The Perch in October, followed by a full-blown brewery slated to open in that same location in January. The Perch will open in the space south of the closed Kokopelli Winery that previously housed an antique mall.

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

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“It has evolved over time to a much bigger organization,” he says.

The organization, which recently moved into a new 20,000-squarefoot facility last summer, is fully staffed.

“We now serve 2,500 youth a year,” Bagley explains. On average 200 to 250 youth participate in the free after-school program per day.

“I am really proud of our organization,” he says. “We are really making a difference in the area. I am very passionate about helping those kids and making sure they are making the choice to stay in school and get an education.”

ICAN Chief Development and Strategy Officer Shelby Pedersen says Bagley came on board as a volunteer and supporter about three years ago by offering to help with its marketing plan.

“He helped us create a brand for ourselves,” Pedersen explains, adding that he also helped in producing more professional marketing materials. “He’s been awesome to work with.”

She says that he is also a very engaged volunteer who is personally committed to ICAN’s mission.

“He’s a stellar volunteer,” Pedersen says. “We are lucky to have him.”

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

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that take advantage of beginning actors and models,” explains Wagner. “I decided to form my own company and hold monthly seminars with professional speakers.”

The company is appropriately named Actors and Models First Steps First Hand.

Dani’s Agency is known for protecting its talent from scams and for being especially protective of their child clients. Wagner also makes it a point to ensure the agency’s talent is prepared to conduct themselves professionally and with integrity during every step of their job.

Etgar and Wagner co-own Spices

Mediterranean Restaurant in Chandler. Although much of the day-to-day operations fall to Etgar, Wagner is also an important component of the restaurant’s success.

“My main focus is marketing and customer service,” notes Wagner. “I go out of my way to come in during our rush hour to help out in the dining room and check on customers, deliver plates and bus tables. I want each and every person who comes in to know how much we appreciate them and that we want them to want to come back again.”

For a full menu and more information, visit SpicesMK.com.

With the agency and the restaurant, Wagner’s duties as a wife and mom are happily juggled into the weekly mix. She has carved out her personal life, and will probably only RSVP for an event if she can bring her husband or child.

“My day starts early at 5 a.m. I do my work out while my son and husband are home sleeping and I also get in at least two hours of agency work before 9 a.m. with no distractions,” Wagner says of her busy schedule.

Wagner’s son understands his mom’s work at Dani’s Agency and enjoys meeting a lot of the actors that he sees on television. He also has done on-camera work.

“He loves to watch himself on TV and he likes to be recorded, so he is showing interest more so, now,” notes Wagner. Personal time is valuable and dividing duties between Dani’s Agency, Spices Mediterranean Kitchen and the roles of mom and wife are tough.

“All I can say is thank God for grandparents,” says Wagner. “They are the best babysitters and now that my son is 5 years old, he’s started sleepovers. It’s nice when you have a close family and those you can count on.”

Wagner imparts a couple of important pointers to parents considering getting their kids into show business. She notes that first, parents should avoid purchasing expensive photo sessions or package deals because children younger than 5 are not required to have a professional photo shoot (and even then, most photo shoots are $300 or less).

“Looking into SAG/AFTRA agencies is recommended because, by law, they can’t sell you photos or classes. They get commission on the work they book, so they are encouraged to work for you and not sell to you,” finishes Wagner. For additional information, visit DanisAgency. com.

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

Sept. activities at San Tan Mountain Regional Park

The San Tan Mountain Regional Park will offer a snake feeding at noon Sat., Sept. 21 providing individuals with the opportunity to get up close and personal. The event will also include teaching attendees about the desert-dwelling snakes of the Sonoran landscape.

The other activities include All About Saguaros at noon Thu., Sept. 26 and the San Tan Shredders Bike Ride at 5 p.m. Thu., Sept. 26.

October’s featured programs include All About Mountain Lions at noon Thu., Oct. 3.

The San Tan Mountain Regional Park hours are 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. There is a $6 vehicle day use entry fee.

For a complete list of upcoming events visit maricopa.gov/parks/san tan/.

Fall speaker series at downtown library

The first series hosted by the Chandler Museum, Chandler Historical Society and the Chandler Library will highlight Chandler’s future land and water use and the impact it could have on the local economy.

The series, “Conversations on Chandler and a Sustainable Future,” is a free presentation offered from 10:30 a.m. to noon Sat., Sept. 21 at the downtown library, 22 S. Delaware St. The presentation will feature a panel of local experts sharing their perspective on an abundance of topics.

Margaree Bigler, who is the local food coordinator for Local 1st Arizona, will discuss the efforts that are taking place to ensure community sustainability through patronizing local businesses and the importance of local foods during the presentation.

Another local expert, Water Regulatory Affairs Manager Doug Toy, will update the audience on current and future water resources and the

sustainability of those water resources.

Principal Planner David de la Torre will bring his expertise about Chandler’s urban growth, open space, as well as maintaining local agricultural aspects in the context of sustainability.

The final panel member is Chris Wharton, a representative with Chow Locally, an online food hub, which distributes food from local farmers and ranchers to families, businesses and organizations. He will discuss the Community Supported Agriculture model during the presentation, as well as how the organization is working to support agriculture with Gilbert’s Agritopia and Chandler’s Lucky Chicken Farms.

Sunset Library

The fall series will continue at

10:30 a.m. Sat., Oct. 19 with “A River’s Journey: The Story of the Gila River.” Individuals will have the opportunity to explore the century old history of the Gila River, which is located south of Chandler. The river’s critical connection to the Gila River Indian community, as well as its potential link to the Chandler community in the future will be discussed. The series will be held at Sunset Library, 4930 W. Ray Rd.

Downtown Library

“100 Years of Chandler’s Historic San Marcos Hotel” will be the topic of the November fall series. Dr. A.J. Chandler, the founder of the city, declared that the “whole world was invited” to the opening of San Marcos Hotel on Nov. 22, 1913. Individuals are encouraged to share their stories during the discussion of the historic hotel. The presentation is scheduled at 10:30 a.m. Sat., Nov. 23. Call 480-782-2751 or visit chandleraz. gov/museum for information.

Donate blood, receive free pint of Blue Bell

Individuals who donate blood throughout the month of September will earn a voucher for a free pint of Blue Bell ice cream. The blood drives are being held in the East Valley to collect donations of O-negative and other blood types.

Two Chandler blood drives

Two blood drives in Chandler will be held from 8 a.m. to noon Wed., Sept. 25, Bloodmobile and Cornerstone Church, 1595 S. Alma School Rd., and again from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sun., Sept. 29.

Donor Center

Donations of blood can also be made from 10 a.m. to 7 .m. Tuesday through Thursday and from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Chandler Donor Center, 1989 W. Elliot Rd., Suite 32.

Solera Arts & Crafts Marketplace

The sixth annual Solera Arts & Crafts Marketplace is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sat., Nov. 2 at 6360 S. Mountain Blvd., Chandler.

The Solera Arts & Crafts Marketplace provides an opportunity for residents and local vendors to sell their art, crafts, decor, as well as other items. More than 50 vendors are expected, offering a wide variety of unique items, such as quilts, paintings, ceramics, candles, crystals and jewelry. Raffle prizes and delicious treats will enhance the experience for all that attend.

Individuals are encouraged to bring a canned food item for the local food bank. Those who donate will receive an additional raffle ticket. Admission to the event is free.

To obtain an application, contact Lifestyle Coordinator Jaye Jackson at 480-802-6996 ext. 227 or email jjackson@solerachandler.com.

To make a blood donation appointment call 1-877-827-4376 or visit BloodHero.com.

Neighbors

NEW ADDITION

WARM WELCOME: Chandler Physical Therapy welcomes Danny Westergard, doctor of physical therapy (DPT), to the practice as a full-time physical therapist. Dr. Westergard, a Gilbert resident, joins co-owners Eric Christensen, DPT, and Ashley Christensen, DPT, in offering comprehensive physical therapy services for chronic and acute conditions and injuries to patients from throughout the East Valley. Chandler Physical Therapy is located at 5590 W. Chandler Blvd., Suite 4, Chandler; to learn more, call 480-786-4969 or visit chandlerpt.net. Submitted photo

Beauty of a Bonzer raises money for charity

Outback Steakhouse and MillerCoors will host the 13th annual Beauty of a Bonzer concert and party at Grand Canyon University Arena on Sat., Sept. 21.

The event will benefit Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center, the Real Gift Foundation, Leadership Children’s Foundation, Waste Not and Boys Hope Girls Hope.

Since its inception, the event has raised more than $4.5 million for local charities.

The evening will begin with an Aussie style Outback Steakhouse dinner followed by a live auction and concert featuring Dead or Alive: The Bon Jovi Experience and Double Vision: The Foreigner Show.

“We are proud to be celebrating our 13th year of giving back to the community,” Matt McMahon, joint venture partner of Outback Steakhouse, a sponsor of the event, says. “This concert and event has a unique aspect to it—raising money for five Valley charities. People can rock into the night and make an enormous difference at the same time.”

Tickets for the event start at $16.50. VIP packages are available with table seating on the floor including dinner.

To purchase tickets, or for more information visit beautyofabonzer.com

Taste of SanTan features restaurant tastings

Save the Family Foundation of Arizona will host the sixth annual Taste of SanTan at SanTan Village in Gilbert from 6 to 10 p.m. Fri., Oct. 4.

The event will feature such restaurant tastings from Kona Grill, Grimaldi’s, Red Robin, Paradise Bakery, Frost Gelato, Gordon Biersch, Famous Dave’s, Brio and Cantina Laredo. Entertainment will also be a part of the festivities. All proceeds will go to Save the Family programs, which helps families conquer homelessness.

Raffle packages, $10 a ticket or three for $20, will be available for such prizes as “A Year of Date Nights,” $500 SanTan Village shopping spree, two round-trip tickets on Southwest and an iPod touch.

Pre-sale tickets, which are available on savethefamily. org, are $45 per person, $80 per couple. Tickets at the door are $50 per person or $90 per couple. Guests must be 21 years or older to attend the event.

For information contact Melissa Axman at 480-4667714.

Donate canned goods, receive free martial arts training

Because September is National Hunger Awareness Month, Z-Ultimate Self Defense Studios is offering free classes to those who donate goods to help fight hunger.

Individuals who donate five canned goods or nonperishable items for the United Bank will receive 30 days of free martial arts training. Those who wish to donate to the cause are asked to call 480-8954466 to set up a scheduled time for the donation drop-off. The private martial arts training appointment will be set up at that time.

The self-defense studio is located on the northeast corner of Alma School and Chandler Heights roads in the Promenade Shopping Center at 4991 S Alms School Rd. Email chandler@ zultimate.com for more information.

Gluten-free food drive held for low-income families

Madison’s Original Hot Sauce and Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center are hosting a gluten-free food drive through Mon., Sept. 30. The drive began Fri., Sept. 13 on the National Celiac Disease Awareness Day.

Individuals are asked to drop off quinoa, rice crackers, gluten-free bagels, vegetable stock, rice pasta, dried beans, canned veggies, gluten-free pancake mix and gluten-free cereals, such as Chex and Rice Krispies at various areas around the Valley. Those locations include Whole Foods Mayo, 7111 E. Mayo Blvd; Phoenix and Gluten Free Country Store, 3345 S. Val Vista, Dr. No. 101 in Gilbert; Gluten Free Creations North Phoenix, 10880 N. 32nd St.; Gluten Free Creations Midtown, 2924 N. 30th St., and Gluten Free Creations South Scottsdale, 7607 E. McDowell Rd.

The donations collected will be donated to the Foothills Food Bank in Cave Creek, which has increased the number of people it serves by 486% since 2008. The food bank has also added a gluten-free division to better serve the increasing number of people, who also suffer from celiac disease or are gluten-adverse.

According to a poverty census in 2011, Arizona is rated the sixth highest for adults and fifth highest for children living in poverty in the nation. Since gluten-free items are typically more expensive, low-income families afflicted by celiac disease tend to be burdened by their need for a glutenfree diet. Foothills Cave Creek marks one of the first organizations in Arizona to help families in need of gluten-free items.

Pulaski Club hosts fashion show Nov. 2

The Pulaski Club, Polish-American club, will hold a fashion show Sat., Nov. 2 at 4331 E. McDowell Rd., Phoenix. Chico’s Fashions from East Camelback Road, will present the clothes for the show.

Lunch will be served at noon and the

Getting Arizona Involved in Neighborhoods event will take place from 2 to 8 p.m. Sat., Oct. 26 to celebrate the crime prevention through community involvement, as well as allow members of the police department to show their appreciation to the community for its support.

The kick-off G.A.I.N. event is from 10 a.m. to noon Sat., Sept. 28, at the Main Police Station, 250 E. Chicago St.

“The Chandler Police Department is encouraging all neighborhood groups to participate,” says Detective Seth Tyler. “Groups may participate through a block party or other type of neighborhood gathering. Groups can then register their block party for a visit by members of the department’s many units. Visiting member units include patrol, motors, K-9s, special assignment unit, and community services.”

fashion show will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Baskets will be raffled off and door prizes will be given.

Tickets, which includes lunch, are $25 per person. Those interested can call Rose Pachura at 480-802-0775.

Those neighborhood groups interested in getting involved this year are asked to contact the Chandler Police Department. A lottery will be held following registration to ensure all groups have an opportunity to request the police specialty units they want to visit their block party.

For more information, call 480-7824967.

Calais Campbell birthday bash

Calais Campbell, defensive end for the Arizona Cardinals, celebrated his 27th birthday at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar in Chandler, on Sept. 2. The intimate evening included entertainment, exceptional food, celebrity athletes, and networking and fundraising support of the CRC Foundation, Campbell’s nonprofit that seeks to empower and provide self-awareness for future leaders. Guests dined alongside Campbell’s Cardinals teammates. The dinner and fundraiser included a silent and live auction. CRC Foundation is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization established in 2010 to teach skills that are not typically learned in a traditional classroom setting that are necessary for real life. STSN photos by Tiera Allen