Find the hidden picture and you could win a prize!
September Winner: Allison Reinhold, with a little help from her son, Aiden.
Each month we will hide a different picture in one of our ads. Locate the hidden picture and email us with your guess to be entered into a drawing for:
A Restaurant Gift Certificate
Enter by email ONLY: HideAndSeek@nearbynews.com
Please include your name and phone number in your email. We will call our winner by Oct. 31. Good Luck!
Publisher Times Media Group
Editor
Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
Account Representative
Bridget Stoll
Graphic Design
Erica Odello
Shannon Fish
Contributors
Lynette Carrington
Tracy House, Shanna Hogan
Contact the Nearby News at 480-654-4460 Fax: 480-962-0905 email: Editor@NearbyNews.com
By Shanna Hogan
Gilbert Historical Museum May Be Haunted
Creepy creaks and hollow voices echo throughout the hundred-year-old Gilbert Historical Museum.
Most patrons dismiss the noises as drafts in the old building, which was originally built as a school at the southwest corner of Elliot and Gilbert roads in 1913. But local paranormal investigators say the building may actually be haunted.
Ghost hunters recently investigated the museum, equipped with tools including night vision cameras, K2 meters and digital recorders, in an attempt to capture any paranormal proof.
“ ey came in with thousands of dollars in equipment with the notion they were going to try and disprove everything,” said Kayla Kolar, executive director of the museum.
“But they couldn’t explain some of the things that happened.”
Kolar sat with the investigators in a circle as they tried to make contact with any spirits. e hunters held flashlights as they began asking questions out loud.
“ ey would ask questions and the flashlights would blink once for ‘yes,’ and twice for ‘no,’” said Kolar. “It was the most bizarre thing.”
Even more unusual were the sounds coming from the basement.
For more than 60 years the building had housed Gilbert Elementary. After the school closed, the building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, and in 1982 it reopened as a museum to preserve the town’s history.
Touring the basement, the hunters recorded noises which sounded like little girls giggling, possibly from ghostly former schoolchildren. At the end of the investigation, the ghost hunters couldn’t account for what they discovered.
“I tend to be really skeptical,” said
Kolar. “But when things can’t be explained, my curiosity is piqued.”
Across Arizona there are at least 50 different ghost hunting groups, a dozen alone in the East Valley. e state is a popular destination for purported ghost phenomena, with hundreds of old buildings, parks and cemeteries rumored to be haunted, according to Ryan Howard, founder of the Mesa Arizona Paranormal Society.
“ ere are a lot of haunted hotspots,” he said. “ ink about the history—this was once the Wild West.”
Most ghost hunters try to first come up with a rational explanation to explain away the haunting. However, the goal of all ghost hunters is to find something otherworldly, said Kim Mann, of the East Valley Paranormal Society.
“We go in with the idea to debunk everything rather than prove it’s haunted,” said Mann. “A lot of things are explainable. Many times people will jump to the conclusion that if a home is making weird noise then it’s haunted. Sometimes there just happens to be a draft. ey don’t get it.”
As for Kolar, even if the Gilbert Historical Museum is haunted, she said it doesn’t frighten her.
“Nothing bad or evil seems to be hanging around,” said Kolar. “If there are ghosts I say they’re like ‘Casper’— the friendly kind.”
A local ghost hunting group recently investigated the Gilbert Historical Museum because of reported ghoulish activity.
neighborhood hearsay
Todd Hatch, of Gilbert, has joined Washington Federal as assistant vice president/regional sales manager. In his new role, Hatch will oversee equipment finance business development in a variety of markets, including health care, transportation, manufacturing and heavy commercial equipment. Hatch earned his bachelor’s degree in Spanish with minor in Latin American literature from Brigham Young University.
Lisa Duncan, of Mesa, won four tickets to sit in the dugout with the D-backs during the second annual Arizona Diamondbacks Alumni Game on Sunday, Aug. 31. She entered to win the priceless VIP experience at her local Denny’s in Gilbert.
Economic development industry veteran Greg Tilque joined the senior management team at Mesa-based Execute To Win (ETW), developer of a business management application that allows companies to execute critical processes and practices, and overcome organizational inertia standing in the way of healthy profitability and growth. Tilque joins ETW after 25 years at the
Town of Gilbert, where he served as development services director and director of economic development.
Three Gilbert women have been named to the team of 2013-14 Suns Dancers. Supporting the professional basketball team are Alexandra, Staci and Tia. (Only their first names were released due to safety reasons.) Eighteen dancers were selected to this year’s team following a weeklong audition process that began with more than 150 Suns Dancers hopefuls. The auditions, which required participants to learn and perform three choreographed dance routines, began on Aug. 17 at the Downtown Phoenix Convention Center. Thirty-two finalists were chosen to compete in a twoday training camp, along with a final audition on Aug. 24 at Talking Stick Resort. Suns fans had the opportunity to vote for their favorite finalists. The 2013-14 Suns Dancers were selected based on the combined results of the judging panel and Suns fans.
Danny Westergard, doctor of physical therapy, has joined Chandler Physical Therapy, 5590 W. Chandler
Blvd., as a full-time physical therapist. Westergard joins co-owners and therapists Eric Christensen, DPT, and Ashley Christensen, DPT, in treating patients from throughout the East Valley for a wide range of conditions. Originally from Palm Springs, Calif., Danny earned his bachelor of arts degree in exercise science from Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego in 2010. He lives in Gilbert with his wife, Amanda, also a recent graduate of A.T. Still’s doctor of physical therapy program.
More than 60 students in the Higley Unified School District have earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP exams. The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program provides willing and academically prepared students with the opportunity to take rigorous college-level courses while still in high school, and to earn college credit, advanced placement or both for successful
performance on the AP exams. The Higley Unified School Districts offers 15 AP, college-level courses.
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce helped Clyde Baker and the Baker School of Music celebrate the opening of its new location at 263 E. Warner Rd. Mayor John Lewis officiated the event. For more information, call (480) 3137714. The venue will soon be hosting country-western and Latin salsa nights beginning in October.
What’s the buzz in your neighborhood? New babies or grandbabies? Announcements? Engagements? Let us know! Email hearsay@nearbynews.com.
KIDS THAT RIP!
Karate Tournament
Benefits Boys and Girls Clubs
Enjoy the beauty, discipline and athleticism of local martial artists while raising money for the Boys and Girls Clubs of the East Valley at the Arizona Desert Classic Sport Karate Tournament from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19.
e event will be held at the East Valley Boys and Girls Club’s Gilbert location at 44 N. Oak S., just west of Gilbert and Elliot roads.
Spectator tickets are $5. e Boys and Girls Clubs of the East Valley receive a portion of the spectator proceeds.
Official black belts will judge martial artists of all ages and ranks in traditional, open, musical and extreme forms. Participants will also spar and use weapons in competition. Mike Daguanno, Arizona’s Best Karate competition team and the Arizona Elite Sport Karate Association host the Desert Classic.
For more information about the event, visit www.azdesertclassic.com.
For nearly 50 years the Boys and Girls Club of the East Valley has provided kids with a chance to build their talents, learn the value of contributing to others, and realize their dreams. For more information visit www.clubzona.org.
QUALITY INK PENS: MONTBLANC, CARTIER, ETC.
ANYTHING: Cartier, Webb, Tiffany, VCA, Jensen. ALL DESIGNER JEWELRY
GLASS: Lalique, Galle, Steuben, Baccarat, LCT, etc.
Martin, Fender, Gibson, Taylor,
Piggly’s at the Fair
Experience A Legend, Visit the Fair
By Lynette Carrington
e weather is cooling and the Arizona State Fair is right around the corner. at means fun, rides, animals, concerts and food. Piggly’s at the Fair has been a concessions fixture at the Arizona State Fair since the early ‘80s serving up the most beloved and highquality fair foods that crowds flock to eat each year.
e fair is an event that is memorable for any family.
“It’s about the family functions, the rodeos, the livestock, the 4H...that’s all a big part of that,” said Sawyers, who lives in Gilbert. “It’s a great thing.”
Fair food is also an important part of a fair experience and Piggly’s brings out their mobile concession grandeur for all to enjoy. is year, Piggly’s will offer crowd favorites Piggly’s Polish Sausage, 100 percent ground beef burgers, Zak’s Zucchini, Riley Fries (beerbattered fries with onions and cheese sauce), jumbo onion rings, barbecue beef, roasted chicken and wings, Hoggly Fries, corn dogs and award-
winning sandwiches. e Sawyers family oversees everything and even the massive turkey legs are handselected for size and smoked to their specifications.
“ e turkey legs are huge. I think ours are about a pound and a half and they are the hit of the fair,” stated Sawyers.
“We introduced alligator last year and that was a big hit and we do the big 100 pound beef ‘round’ that spins that we slice up fresh daily. Of course the world-famous Piggly’s Fries are always a crowd favorite,” Sawyers explained.
“Piggly’s is right inside the gates on the corner of McDowell and 19th Avenue,” noted Sawyers.
Everyone loves a value and Piggly’s will have special deals. “ e Arizona State Fair has done a great job with several values. Every Friday, except opening Friday, there’s a $2 menu item and that is a big hit and that will run until 5 or 6 p.m. People line up for that deal,” he said. Deals will change each day.
Sawyers took over Piggly’s from his parents Jerry and Sandy Sawyers who founded the concession company in 1964 and started serving fair foods and barbecue at local events in Washington. When his parents retired in 1997, Sawyers took over the business and now has incorporated the next generation to manage and run Piggly’s.
Other events where Piggly’s has joined the fun include the Ostrich Festival in Chandler, Taste of Tacoma in Tacoma, Wash., Fair Frontier Days in Wall Walla, Wash., Good Guys Car Show in Scottsdale and the Fourth Avenue Street Fair in Tucson, among
many other exciting community celebrations.
Early 2013, Piggly’s at the Fair opened its first restaurant serving up its famous fair “fare” and an expanded menu. Plus, the entire restaurant is decorated in a fair theme with artwork and fair fixtures that bring out the kid in everyone.
Piggly’s also does fundraisers and school events at the restaurant. Piggly’s at the Fair is located at 1633 S. Stapley Dr., (just south of U.S. Highway 60), Mesa. Call (480) 707-9009 for restaurant or concession inquiries, or visit www.PigglysAt eFair.com for more information and special events.
Piggly’s owner, Craig Sawyers, showing off the famous Piggly’s barbecue.
27 Quick and Easy Fix Ups to Sell Your Gilbert Home Fast and for Top Dollar
Gilbert - Because your home may well be your largest asset, selling it is probably one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. And once you have made that decision, you’ll want to sell your home for the highest price in the shortest time possible without compromising your sanity. Before you place your home on the market, here’s a way to help you to be as prepared as possible.
To assist homesellers, a new industry report has just been released called “27 Valuable Tips That You Should Know to Get Your Home Sold Fast and for Top Dollar.” It tackles the important issues you need to know to make your home competitive in today’s tough, aggressive marketplace.
Through these 27 tips you will discover how to protect and capitalize on your most important investment, reduce
stress, be in control of your situation, and make the best profit possible.
In this report you’ll discover how to avoid financial disappointment or worse, a financial disaster when selling your home. Using a common-sense approach, you will get the straight facts about what can make or break the sale of your home.
You owe it to yourself to learn how these important tips will give you the competitive edge to get your home sold fast and for the most amount of money.
Order your free report today. To order a FREE Special Report, visit EastValleyHomeAnswers.com/27tips.asp or to hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report call toll-free 1-800-457-9054 and enter 1023. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Get your free special report NOW.
East Valley Moms
Parent Pointers for a Safe Halloween
By Tracy House
Pirates and princesses. Ghosts and goblins. It’s October—time for Halloween and that means kids are going to be out and about on Oct. 31 knocking on doors, ringing bells and shouting out “Trick-or-treat.”
While the main objective may be to load up on as many chocolate bars and gummy bears as a pillow case can hold, keeping those little mummies and monsters safe is a priority that parents, the community and law enforcement all share.
Sgt. Jesse Sanger, public information officer with Gilbert Police Department, as well as the Mesa Police Department have provided some helpful advice for keeping kids safe while they’re out on the candy quest.
PARENTS:
• Feed your children a full meal before trick-or-treating, they will be less tempted to eat candy before it has been inspected by an adult
• Be sure your children carry a flashlight
• Be sure your children wear flameresistant costumes
• Make sure your children’s costumes are made with reflective material or place reflective tape on the costume so motorists will see them
• Have your children try a cosmetic mask instead of a plastic mask, which may obscure your children’s vision or restrict their ability to breathe. If not, have your children
take off their masks until they reach the next home
• Costumes should fit your child properly and not drag on the ground
• Shoes should fit your children’s feet, even if they do not match their costume
• Make sure young children are
supervised by an adult while trickor-treating
• Put your children’s name, address and phone number on the inside of their costume in case of an accident
• Make sure wigs and costumes are fireproof
... continues on page 10
Self Development Preschool/Charter School
2 Years - 12 Years (Before/After school) 6 am - 6 pm
• Exemplary pre-kindergarten program for school success
• Well-designed and enriched preschool curriculum
• Before and after-school program
• Low staff turn-over
• Integrated thematic curriculum
• Ages 2-5 years (Preschool)
* Ages 6-12 years (before and after-school programs)
• Complete six years of schooling in four years (SIF Program)
• Outstanding kindergarten through middle school education
• Excelling mathematics and science programs
• Unique literary analysis program for grades 2-8
• One of the top performing schools in the state
• Elective Language Options: Latin, Spanish, French and Chinese
• High standards with teacher support
By Melissa Hurst
5 Budget Friendly Tips for Halloween
Cooler temperatures and shorter days mean one thing—Halloween is around the corner! Costumes, decorations, candy and food—it can all add up. But don’t be scared. With my tips below, you can have a fun Halloween without a frightful budget.
1 Host a Costume Exchange Party Most costumes are only worn once or twice, so why not pass them on to others once you are done? Invite friends/family over and ask them to bring any used costumes (and accessories) that they don’t want. Everyone can walk away with something new and it doesn’t have to cost a penny! Plus, it is like having an early Halloween party as the season is starting—your kids will love that!
2. Shop at Home First. Some easy costumes to make at home with
items around the house include a scarecrow, a mummy, a cowboy/ cowgirl, a cat, or a robot (use cardboard boxes and paint!). If you need inspiration or some added items, check local thrift stores for bargains. Pinterest is also a wonderful place for inspiration!
3. Do-It-Yourself Decorations. You’ll be surprised what you already have around the house to create your own “spooky” items. Spray paint cereal boxes to create a cemetery, fill trash bags with leaves to make ghosts, and create cobwebs with pulled cotton balls. Check the
Dollar Stores for low price crafts that can help you decorate for less.
4. Save on Treats. Use coupons, sales and check the discount stores. Don’t pay too much on candy. Many manufacturers give coupons for candy in the paper or online and you can use those with a sale to maximize savings. Chocolate is also more expensive, so stick with hard candy to save. You may also want to buy bulk and split with a neighbor.
5. Bottom line - Don’t pay full price. If you do plan to buy a new costume this year, buy early or wait until the last minute for a great sale. e sales have already begun. So you can start watching now for your favorite costume or accessories to hit that rock-bottom price. And don’t forget to check online for costumes (Amazon already has many sales to check out, too).
Melissa Hurst, a Valley-based deal-hunting savings pro, is also a mom of three. She understands the importance of budgeting and shares her savings tips in her column. Visit www.SavingCentsWithSense.net, where she shares her passion for bargain-hunting and strategies for stretching a budget.
Cutie Patooties!
Is your kid a “cutie patootie?” Of course he is, so submit your baby, toddler or kid photos to the e Nearby News’ Valley Moms section for a chance to win a restaurant gift certificate. Send highresolution digital photos to moms@ nearbynews.com. Be sure to include your name, your child’s name and age and your phone number. (Don’t worry, phone numbers will not be published.)
It Wasn’t Easy But The Winner Is...
2-year-old Juriah Al-Rafiq, who sports a punk rock ‘do for mom, Cameo, and dad, Jai. They went to see the Arizona Diamondbacks on us!
CHILDREN:
• Walk, don’t run and stay on sidewalks or pathways
• Cross the street in groups and keep your flashlight on so motorists can see you at all times
• Visit only the houses where residents are known and an outside light is on as a sign of welcome
• Remove your mask while walking between houses
• Keep your yard clear of things like hoses, ladders and dog leashes that can trip little ones
• Use battery powered jack-o-lanterns instead of candle light
• Put pets away as they may get frightened and try to bite one of the little monsters at your door
• Give pre-packaged treats or nonfood treats such as erasers, pencils, stickers, etc.
• If you are old enough to trick-or-treat on your own, be sure to have some way of getting in touch with your parents. Bring a cell phone or money for a payphone. Also, be sure to wear a watch you can read at night so that you can be home when expected
• Travel in a group
• Look both ways before crossing the street. Never dart out into the street.
• Walk on the sidewalk or facing traffic if there are no sidewalks
RESIDENTS:
• Drive slowly and be patient when trick-or-treaters are crossing the street
• The National Crime Prevention Council offers other tips for keeping kids safe during their outing that parents can share with their children.
• Never enter a strange house or car
• Older children out alone should stay with friends
• Trick-or-treat while it’s still light outside
• Tricks may be fun, but pranks can be costly and hurtful. Emphasize that you disapprove of vandalism
• Remind kids they should not eat their treats until they get home and the candy is checked out.
• Eat only unopened candies and other goodies in original wrappers
• Remind kids to stay in well-lit areas and not to take shortcuts through alleys, backyards or playing fields
If you or your child sees any suspicious or criminal activity, report it to local law enforcement. Looking for other ways to keep safe and enjoy a hassle-free Halloween? Consider a block party, look for parks and recreation centers that host Halloween parties, check the local mall to see if shops are participating in trick-or-treating, or find out if local schools libraries or churches are sponsoring a Halloween get-together. Host your own Halloween haunted house with games, prizes, scary stories, music, costume contest, crafts and more to ensure kids are safe and a hauntingly happy Halloween is had by all.
Tracy House is a busy AZ Modern Mom of four, freelance writer and educator. She writes about motherhood, family, education, sustainability and Arizona. Contact her at tracy@azmodernmom.com.
top ten family events
Oct. 1-31, 2013
1 Gilbert Fall Carnival
WHEN: Thurs., Oct. 17, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Fri., Oct. 18, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Sat., Oct. 19, from 12 p.m. to10 p.m.; and Sun., Oct. 20, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
WHERE: Crossroads Park, 2155 E. Knox Rd., Gilbert
COST: Free admission; charge for food and rides
INFO: (480) 503-6200 or www.gilbertaz.gov
Carnival attendees can enjoy a weekend of food, family friendly rides and games such as the Ferris wheel, the merry go round and more.
2 Baby Splash Swim Classes
WHEN: Tuesday thru Saturdays, all day
WHERE: Hubbard Family Swim School, 1061 N. Dobson Rd., Suite 101, Mesa
COST: Free but registration is required
INFO: (602) 971-4044 or www.hubbardswim.com
These 30-minute water acclimation classes give parents or caregivers a chance to learn excellent tips on how to enjoy tub time at home with baby and also learn how to prepare baby for swim lessons.
3 2013 Walk From Obesity
WHEN: Sat., Oct. 5, at 8 a.m.
WHERE: Freestone Park, 1045 E. Juniper Rd., Gilbert
COST: $25 to $35; free for children ages 12 and younger with a paid parent or guardian.
INFO: www.gilbertaz.gov or email carol.thomas@bannerhealth.com or donna.simon@bannerhealth.com.
This is an exercise-filled event that has the potential to raise money for the fight against obesity.
4 5 Years of Comedy
WHEN: Fri., Oct. 11, and Sat., Oct.12, at 7:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m.
WHERE: National Comedy Theatre Phoenix, 1111 S. Longmore St., Mesa, COST: $12 to $14
INFO: (602) 374-5638 or www.nctphoenix.com
The National Comedy Theatre Phoenix celebrates its fifth year in the Valley and welcomes all ages to a two-day improv comedy event.
5 “The Secret Garden”
WHEN: Thurs., Oct. 3, and Fri., Oct. 4, at 7 p.m.; Sat., Oct. 5, at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sun., Oct. 6, at 2 p.m.
WHERE: Nesbitt/Elliott Playhouse, One E. Main St., Mesa
COST: $15; $11 children 17 years and younger INFO: (480) 644-6500 or www.mesaartscenter.com
The East Valley Children’s Theatre presents “The Secret Garden,” an adaptation from the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett.
The Fall Festival will feature Trunk or Treating, a bounce house, haunted house, cotton candy, arts and crafts, carnival games and more.
9 The Creepy Crawl Ball 2013
WHEN: Fri., Oct. 31, 5:30 p.m.
WHERE: Nile Theater, 105 W. Main Street, Mesa COST: $5
INFO: (480) 559-5859 or www.niletheater.com
Vintage scary movies will be displayed on the walls during the musical performances.
10 All About Desert Survival
WHEN: Wed., Oct. 2, at 12 p.m.
WHERE: Usery Regional Park, 3939 N. Usery Pass Rd., Mesa
COST: $6
INFO: (480) 984-0032 or www.maricopa.gov/parks
The family can learn life-saving tips for ensuring survival if stranded in the desert.
Las Sendas Cardiology
around the neighborhood
Residents of Gilbert and the surrounding areas flocked to Polar Ice, located in the town’s Crossroads Park, to escape the heat and indulge in a little winter fun. The family-oriented venue has three locations in the Phoenix area, including Chandler and Peoria. For more information, call (480) 503-7080. Photos by Tiera Allen.
1. Hannah Dibiasi, a regular at the rink, gets her skates on before hitting the ice.
2. Parents talk while their children skate. 3. BASIS Mesa Charter School had their booster club at Polar Ice to offer a discounted rate on tickets and raise money for their school. 4. Booster parents for BASIS Mesa Charter School help with group check-ins. 5. Three friends link together to skate for speed and more fun!
6. An opening in the arena allowed for skaters to enter and exit the ice. 7. Ethan Quimpo smiles for a photo as his mother, Lyn, helps put on his skates. 8. A Polar Ice zamboni resurfaces the ice during an intermission. 9. Hao Wang with his son Leo and Wife Yi Liu take a break from the ice. 10. Kamy Brown and Marisol Costella share an order of nachos to help them thaw out. 11. Music is played in the rink from a stereo inside the announcers box. 10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11
By Kathy Kerby
Henhouse Cafe
It is so fun to walk into a new restaurant and feel instantly at home.
e Henhouse Cafe on Higley and Guadalupe roads is a true family restaurant where Mo and Brett Grebe and their three adult children have gone to great lengths to make their country-style cafe warm and welcoming. e inside is decorated with antiques and repurposed items such as coffee bags for curtains, tin buckets for lights, old windows for chalkboards, license plates and even Mo’s old red wagon for decoration.
I especially liked the 20-person banquet room on the side of the main restaurant that can be reserved for family gatherings, birthday parties and other celebrations.
e menu changes daily as new recipes are added to the daily specials and the ones most preferred by hungry diners are added to the permanent
menu which is updated every three months. Unlike most restaurants, breakfast is served until 2 p.m. for those who are late risers or who just like breakfast for lunch.
Mo and Brett came to our table and told us about their dreams for this restaurant, the third one they have owned since Brett ended his 14-year professional baseball career.
eir goals are to serve quality comfort food, made from the freshest ingredients with the highest standards of cleanliness. ey are busy doing this and I was surprised to hear that they use 5,000 eggs and 2,500 pounds of red potatoes each month.
We looked over the three-page menu with an additional two pages of breakfast and lunch specials and selected the strawberry cheesecake French toast ($7.29), the grilled chicken sandwich ($8.49) and the
chicken fried chicken ($8.99). While we waited for our food to arrive, we noticed that the cafe had an interesting assortment of customers with families, singles and even a table of five burley guys who looked like they had been working for hours and just stopped to have a hearty breakfast in a homey place.
I have never tasted strawberry cheesecake French toast, but it is my new favorite! Just picture thick Hawaiian bread dipped in a rich egg and cream batter then graham crackers and grilled to perfection. It is then stuffed with cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries and garnished with powdered sugar and whipped cream. Delicious!
e grilled chicken sandwich had a delightful blending of flavors with the tender chicken breast, melted provolone, tomatoes (with basil and garlic) served on spicy grilled Focaccia bread. e side salad was also yummy. Lou was in heaven as he devoured the chicken fried chicken. Listed as a “Henhouse Favorite,” it included southern-style chicken breast, two
eggs and red potatoes all blanketed with sausage gravy. It was a real man’s breakfast!
ere are so many scrumptious items on the menu that a person could eat here every morning for a month and not try them all. With titles like Barn Buster, Kitchen Sink, Ham-I-Am and Cali Benedict we will definitely need to go back and sample these culinary treats. Join the Grebe family at Henhouse Cafe every day from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Henhouse Cafe
3244 E. Guadalupe Rd. Gilbert, 85234 (480) 219-7379 www.henhouse-cafe.com
SHOP
Strawberry cheesecake French toast.
What’s Cooking?
By Jan D’Atri
Nanaimo Bars
I wish I had known about this treat years ago when I was living in British Columbia, where it originated. (I was going to school at the Conservatory of Music in Victoria, and on the weekends my fellow classmates and I would drive up Vancouver Island to Nanaimo, a quaint and picturesque town on the waterfront just to get away from it all.)
Little did I know then, as relatively few people know now, that it’s the home of the original Nanaimo Bar, a decadent, delicious no-bake three layer cookie bar that takes only one bite to win you over for a lifetime. Yes, it’s that good, with a bottom layer
of packed chocolate, nuts, graham crackers and coconut. e filling is a creamy layer of custard butter icing, and if that’s not enough, the top layer is a rich, firm chocolate!
e Nanaimo Bar has been called Canada’s Favorite Confection and for years the recipe was imprinted on souvenir tea towels and aprons. I remember seeing it when I strolled around town, but it wasn’t until years later that I remembered its goodness.
I think you’re going to like the Nanaimo Bar! is favorite from our friends to the North definitely raises the bar on a chocolaty layered treat.
Nanaimo Bars
Ingredients
Bottom Layer
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, room temperature
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup (5 tablespoons)
unsweetened cocoa powder
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 teaspoon pure vanilla
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened)
1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, coarsely chopped
Middle Layer
1/4 cup butter, room temperature
3 tablespoons cream
2 tablespoons custard or vanilla pudding powder
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
Top Layer
4 squares (4 oz) gourmet dark chocolate or 4 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons butter
Bottom Layer Directions:
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the sugar and cocoa powder until blended. Whisk in the beaten egg, stirring continually until the mixture thickens, about one minute. Remove from heat and stir in
the vanilla, graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and chopped nuts. Mix well, and then press mixture evenly and firmly into approximately a 9-inch square pan. Cover and refrigerate until firm (about 30 minutes).
Middle Layer (Filling)
With a mixer, cream butter. Add in remaining ingredients and beat until light and fluff y. (If mixture is too thick, add another tablespoon of cream.) Spread filling over the bottom layer and refrigerate until firm, 15-20 minutes.
Topping:
Melt chocolate and butter together in a saucepan or double boiler. Do not burn. Spread gently over the filling. Refrigerate.
Tips for Serving
2010
Because the top chocolate layer will get rather hard, you may want to score the chocolate where you’ll be cutting it into bars before you refrigerate for the final time. e 9-inch square makes about 12 squares. is recipe works well as bite-sized pieces, too. Keep the pan of bars chilled and cut into it with a knife that is heated by dipping it into a container of hot water. Wipe knife down to dry after each dipping. 4th Annual
events calendar
Taste of SanTan
WHEN: Fri., Oct. 4, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
WHERE: SanTan Village, 2218 S. Williams Field Rd., Gilbert COST: $45; $80 per couple in advance INFO: (480) 466-7714 or www.savethefamily.org
The event features restaurant tastings and entertainment to benefit Save the Family’s important work of helping families conquer homelessness. All proceeds go directly to Save the Family’s programs.
Breast Cancer Survivor Seminar
WHEN: Wed., Oct. 9, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Banner Gateway Medical Center’s Grand Canyon Conference rooms, 1900 N. Higley Rd., Gilbert COST: Free INFO: (602) 230-2273 or www.bannerhealth.com
Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center is offering a seminar to offer research and symptom management for breast cancer survivors. The seminar also features an overview from an oncologist to explain the special needs of a breast cancer survivor.
“Little Women”
WHEN: Fri., Oct. 4, to Sat., Oct. 12, various times
WHERE: Hale Theatre Arizona, 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert COST: $16 to $26
INFO: (480) 497-1181 or www.haletheatrearizona.com
The Hale Theatre presents the American classic, “Little Women.”
14th annual BARKtoberfest
WHEN: Sat., Oct. 12, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
WHERE: Gilbert Town Center, 50 E. Civic Center Dr., Gilbert COST: Free, donations required for some activities
INFO: www.azfriends.org
The Friends for Life Animal Rescue’s 14th annual BARKtoberfest is a fundraiser event to help in saving the lives of homeless dogs and cats in the community.
Chamber Chat—Morning Networking Event
WHEN: Wed., Oct. 16, from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.
WHERE: Apple Dumpling Café, 3076 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Suite 101, Gilbert
COST: Free, attendees are responsible for cost of their own meal
INFO: www.gilbertaz.com
Meet up and chat with other chamber members over breakfast. This relaxed congregation is an easy way to network with other professionals and learn more about businesses in the community.
Weight-Loss Classes for Breast Cancer Survivors
WHEN: Wed., Oct. 16, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
WHERE: Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, 2946 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Gilbert
COST: Free
INFO: (480) 256-4141 or www.bannerhealth.com
The Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center is offering a six-week series of classes to provide weight loss tools for breast cancer survivors. A registered dietitian and an exercise physiologist will be present to provide weight management or weight loss strategies to lower one’s risk of breast cancer reoccurrence.
“Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”
WHEN: Thurs., Oct. 17, to Sat., Nov. 3, various times
WHERE: Hale Theatre Arizona, 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert
COST: $16 to $26
INFO: (480) 497-1181 or www.haletheatrearizona.com
Based on the 1988 film, “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” this musical comedy, presented by the Hale Theatre Arizona, tells the story of two swindlers who compete in a comedic face-off to become the ultimate schemer.
Dino Dig
WHEN: Wed., Oct. 23, at 4 p.m.
WHERE: The Riparian Preserve At Water Ranch, 2757 E. Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert
COST: $5
INFO: (480) 503-6200 or www.riparianinstitute.org
Uncover the remains of some of the planet’s oldest reptiles. This is a family friendly outdoor activity that encourages anyone, ages 5 and older, to come participate in the dig.
“Men In Action” Dialogue Event
WHEN: Thurs., Oct. 24, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
WHERE: Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, 119 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101, Gilbert
COST: Free for chamber members
INFO: Sarah Watts (480) 941-6322 or www.business.gilbertaz.com
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce is hosting a “Men in Action” dialogue event featuring Eric Kilstrom, senior vice president of VIP Mortgage, founder of the Anthem Chamber of Commerce and “We Care Anthem,”
Racing the Reaper 5K
WHEN: Sat., Oct. 26, at 8 a.m.
WHERE: Rockin R Ranch, 6138 E. Baseline Rd., Gilbert
COST: $40 ages 14 and older
INFO: (949) 394-0787 or www.racingthereaper.us
The town of Gilbert is hosting a
Halloween-themed 5K race, Racing the Reaper. Outrun the “Reaper” on the 5K course and celebrate with the other survivors at the finish line at the haunted festival, which will offer food, live bands, a DJ, and of course unlimited thrills.
GCPAAA Golf Tournament
WHEN: Sat., Oct. 26, at 7:30 a.m.
WHERE: Western Skies Golf Club, 1245 E. Warner Rd., Gilbert
COST: $80 per player
INFO: www.gcpaaa.org or email gcpaaasecretary@yahoo.com
The 15th annual GCPAAA Golf Tournament is a four-person scramble event consisting of volunteer members of the Gilbert Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association. All funds raised from the tournament will be used to purchase needed equipment for the officers of the Gilbert Police Department.
Taylor Morrison—Adora Trails’ Halloween Treat Street Event
WHEN: Tues., Oct. 29, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
WHERE: Adora Trails 2272 E. Galileo Dr., Gilbert
COST: Free
INFO: (480) 988-9098 or www.adoratreatstreet.com
The public is invited to the Halloween Treat Street Event at Adora Trails in Gilbert. Join Taylor Morrison for a spooky good time, including trick or treating at its 10 model homes, food and lots of activities for the kids.
Booths Selling Fast for the Expo!
A Partnership of Experience and Value
This year, for the first time, Lovin’ Life After 50 and East Valley Adult Resources have joined forces in a partnership designed to bring additional value to companies and organizations with a need to reach the East Valley’s after-50 market. Together, these two organizations will host the 2013 Healthy Living Expo on November 21 at the Mesa Convention Center.
Health y Living
Arizona’s longest-running expos for the after-50 market
Guitar Center
Helping People Make Music
By Lynette Carrington
Guitar Center opened its newest Arizona location just a few months ago in Dana Park Village and it was an instant smash hit with seasoned and budding musicians alike. So much more than guitars, this well-known and respected name in the music retail world delivers a very cool mix of instruments, accessories, classes, technical and musical insight and a studio.
Mary Walenta is the manager of the new store and has been with Guitar Center for six years. Hailing from the north Houston, Texas, Guitar Center location, she moved to Arizona and worked at the Tempe location for a year before the Dana Park Village location opened.
“I love Guitar Center so much and it’s a normal step,” said Walenta of the brand’s recent expansion. “Guitar Center has constantly evolved as a company and this store reflects that.”
vocals, mandolin, banjo, keyboards and even home recording lessons. Best of all, its rates are extremely affordable and it’s a bonus to have a comfortable and inviting space where both student and teacher can work together productively.
“Music is fun, it’s cathartic and it’s a positive force in people’s lives,” explained Walenta. She anticipates the store adding additional instrument lessons in the future.
Guitar Center features a “Jam Night” from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. the last Friday of each month. Studio students can come exclusively for the first hour to play and get some free pointers and additional instruction from teachers and the second hour is open to the general public or those in the store who want to get on the stage and play. Look for many other events and competitions during the year including the “Drum Off ” competition (running since 1988) and the “Singer/Songwriter” contest. Prizes include cash, gear, endorsements and other perks. Check the online calendar at www.guitarcenter.com for upcoming competitions and events.
e new location sells top brandname instruments and accessories and if you don’t see what you need in the vast, yet well-organized and stocked store, the knowledgeable staff will order it for you. e store caters to the entire family and whether, someone is just getting started or is a rock ‘n’ roll superstar, Guitar Center can be counted upon for its expertise.
“Our motto is ‘We Help People Make Music,’ and that’s what we love to do,” Walenta noted.
One of the highlights at the new location is the studios. is location is the only one in the Valley to feature teaching studios. e modern, comfortable and state-of-the-art studios feature lessons for drums, bass, guitar,
e “Music Mentor Series” are workshops and instruction for the general public. Classes include topics such as guitar maintenance, home recording, understanding amp tones, drum tuning, a family drum circle and a DJ workshop, among others.
“ ey’re free and it’s comfortable because it’s in a group setting,” Walenta noted.
Guitar Center is located in Dana Park Village at 1652 S. Val Vista Drive, Suite 118. Call (480) 497-0655 for more information.
APPLIANCE SERVICE & REPAIR
DENNIS APPLIANCE SERVICE
20Years Experience
Washers – Dryers – Refrigerators
Ranges – Dishwashers
Bonded & Insured
Not a Licensed Contractor
Dennis 480-539-1019
CLEANING SERVICES
HOME IMPROVEMENT
PATIODOORREPAIRS.COM
Roller replacement, track repair, handles & locks. Sun Valley Patio Door Service. Free estimates. Cell phone 602-482-0605
LANDSCAPING SERVICES
ALL PRO TREE SERVICE, LLC
Tree Trimming, Tree Removals, Stump Grinding, Monthly Landscape Maintenance, Full Yard Clean Ups, Palm Trees, Deep Root Fertilization, Irrigation, Etc.
Red Mountain Maids – Homes / Offices / Commercial - Low prices. Serving the East Valley for 10 years! Prompt, courteous service. $15/hr using your supplies or $17/hr w/our cleaning supplies. Call 480-354-7928 or 480-206-9998.
FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY
BEAUTIFUL FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY
Family photo session just in time for holiday cards and gifts starting at $100 To learn more, contact Christy 602-571-5292 or www.christysimages.com
AD SPACE AVAILABLE!
Call Tracey to learn about our specials. 480-348-0343 x100
Free Estimate, Very Professional, Insured, and Bonded!
Visa & MasterCard Accepted
Mention this Ad and Receive 15% off Discount! 480-354-5802 or dennis@allprotrees.com
See Our Ad in the Biz Box Section
MUSIC INSTRUCTION
EAST VALLEY GUITAR LESSONS
Start playing songs fast using a common sense guitar instruction for all levels. Customized lessons teaching how to tune a guitar, play chords cleanly, strum in time, learn entire songs, solo at jam sessions and even write your own music. Multiple learning formats for faster results. Flexible scheduling to accommodate busy schedules. Free lesson for new students. Visit www.EastMesaGuitarLessons.com Or Call 480-600-7349
By Kevin J. Chapman
Are Teen Drivers Getting the (Text) Message?
As a father of teenage drivers, including one who just (finally) obtained his learner’s permit, any report about teenagers and driving gets my attention.
A recently released national survey by Bridgestone America found that teen drivers change their behavior for the better, even when driving with friends, and are, naturally, on their best behavior, when driving with their parents.
Unfortunately, they are still doing very dangerous things with their phones when driving by themselves. A teen driver survey, supported by the U.S. Department of Transportation, revealed that 95 percent of teens read texts and emails when they are driving by themselves, but only 32 percent do so when driving with their friends and only 7 percent when driving with their parents.
Similarly, 90 percent of teenagers send social media updates when driving alone, while only 29 percent when driving with friends and a mere 5 percent when driving with parents. e statistics are comparable to those teens watching videos when driving. At least 75 percent of teen drivers admit to browsing social media sites, taking photos, editing and posting those photos, and other such activities
while driving. However, when asked if such conduct was acceptable, the percentages in each category dropped to below 10 percent.
So, teenage drivers know that they need to be digitally disconnected when driving, yet they still do it, especially when by themselves. Smart phones are making them stupid drivers.
Another alarming, but not surprising, discovery from the survey is that teens’ driving behaviors are most often influenced by watching their parents drive. ey form their habits as they see what their parents do—good or bad.
While today’s teenagers do generally wear their seatbelts and don’t often engaging in risky driving, such as drag racing or drifting like generations before, they do try to electronically multitask. Sadly, combining any distraction with driving can have disastrous, sometimes fatal consequences.
Talk to any teenage drivers in your home and let them know the digital dangers awaiting them. Establish rules and consequences for violations, as needed, to get their attention. Stress that nothing is so urgent, and if it is, pull over and deal with it. And make sure you also practice what you preach.
Kevin Chapman attended Arizona State University (B.S. 1986; J.D. 1992). His practice revolves around accidents and personal injury. He can be reached at (480) 833-1113.
business spotlight
By Lynette Carrington
All Pro Trees & Landscaping Service
Professional, Affordable Tree and Landscape Service
When it comes to landscape and tree services, why trust your yard investment to anyone less than the pros? All Pro Trees & Landscaping Service is a family-owned and -operated business that provides an entire range of services to keep your yard and trees in outstanding condition.
Whether your yard needs clean up, irrigation install or repair or weekly, bi-monthly or monthly yard maintenance, All Pro Trees & Landscaping Service can take care of any yard need. If it’s time to freshen up your landscaping or redesign your entire yard, the licensed, bonded and insured company delivers yard and tree maintenance expertise by highly
and Sue Kirby have been in the landscape business for years and for Dennis it is a special passion.
“Back in high school, my best friend and I trimmed palm trees,” he explained, “It’s just something I love to do.”
Dennis brings decades of in-depth experience with a wide variety of trees to All Pro Trees & Landscaping. Tree services offered includes trimming, tree removal, stump grinding, deep-root fertilization and 24-hour emergency storm damage response.
For clients, Dennis and Sue provide expert, year-round advice on proper yard care and tree maintenance. “Did you know that during the monsoon season mesquite and Palo Verde trees
down in winter storms?” asked Dennis.
At All Pro, clients’ trees are properly cared for and thinned out to enhance their beauty, lessen the chance of loss from a storm and lessen the risk of property damage from falling trees. Older trees in particular can be worth thousands of dollars, add beauty to a property and taking care of them is a worthwhile investment. All Pro customers include home and business owners, HOAs, Realtors and property management companies.
“All of our estimates are free and we take very good care of our customers,” explains Sue. “Many of our customers have been with us for years.”
Why risk sub-par yard maintenance or untrained and uninsured tree trimmers who are not properly covered for the work they do?
“All our employees are fully insured with worker’s comp. and liability insurance,” Sue said. “Uninsured workers present a risk to homeowners and if they are hurt on a home or business owner’s property, they can turn around and sue for injuries. Most people don’t know that.”
All Pro offers a variety of service terms available for yard or property maintenance and tree maintenance is recommended every six months. Two important times to get tree service are right before the monsoon season and before winter storms. Because Arizona has an unusually wide spectrum of weather, trees and plants can become particularly vulnerable. If trees or plants have become damaged by frost, All Pro can also properly trim and prune plants and trees to assist them in returning to optimal health. Mention this ad for a 15 percent discount on any tree or yard service. For more information, call (480) 3545802, email dennis@allprotrees.com or visit www.AllProTrees.com.
All Pro Trees & Landscaping Service prides itself on its integrity.
