Tumbleweed News:April 2016

Lynn’s

From Dr. Chamberlain’s Desktop

Parents who have a child with an overjet, or what is commonly referred to by people as “buck teeth,” know some of the problems that may arise as a result. While they realize that their child may be at a higher risk for being teased or even have more difficulty biting into certain foods, they may not be aware that it actually puts their child at a higher risk for dental trauma.

Research in the “Journal of Dental Traumatology” reports that children who have an overjet are at a higher risk for experiencing dental trauma at some point. With the teeth protruding out more, it puts them in a vulnerable

Relaxing,

position that may lead to traumatic experiences that include chipped teeth or fractures, dislodged teeth, knocked-out teeth, and root fractures. The study also indicates that males are at a higher risk for the trauma than females are, and that those children who have an overjet that is greater than 6 mm have four times the risk of dental trauma.

Overjet can occur for a variety of reasons, including heredity, improper alignment, thumb sucking, overuse of pacifiers, and overcrowding of teeth. Left untreated, it can also impact speech, leading to impediments. As most children who have an overjet can attest, it is also an aesthetic issue that may attract unwanted attention to those who have it. The good news is that overjet can successfully be corrected by working with an orthodontist.

Today, there are several treatment options available to help correct an overjet, thus reducing

the risks of dental trauma and other related issues. Options range from braces and dental appliances to surgery for extreme overjet situations. The important issue for parents to remember is that it is a treatment that should not be ignored. Getting a proper treatment timeline may save the child years of problems and help them to avoid dental traumas. Parents who have a child with overjet will want to make an appointment with an orthodontist. During that visit, the severity of the condition can be assessed, and treatment options and timing can also be discussed. This is just one more step toward helping their child to avoid further injury, and move closer to having optimal oral health!

Publisher Times Media Group

Nearby News monthly contest

Each month we design an advertisement for something that doesn't exist. Find the fake ad and you could win a restaurant gift certificate!

this

Enter by email ONLY: FAKEADMESA@NEARBYNEWS.COM

We will announce the winner in next month’s paper. If you see your name, please contact us by March 31, 2016. Good Luck!

Last Month’s Fake Ad

President Steve T. Strickbine

Executive Editor Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Associate Editors Ken Abramczyk, Srianthi Perera Graphic Design

Erica Odello, Jay Banbury, Paul Braun, Christy Byerly, Ruth Carlton, Amy Civer, Nicole La Cour, Administration Courtney Oldham

Contributors

Alison Bailin Batz, Judi King, Jill Pertler, Tim J. Randall, Laurie Struna

Contact the Nearby News at (480) 898-5610 • Fax: (480) 898-5606 Editor@NearbyNews.com For

The Tumbleweed News is published monthly and distributed to 10,000 residences and businesses within Chandler, 8,500 mailed directly to homes and 1,500 distributed on newsstands, and in several hundred high-traffic locations throughout the community.

Distribution Area:

community spotlight

By Srianthi Perera

New projects boost Airpark Area, the city’s youngest employment corridor

Four large office/light industrial projects built speculatively in Chandler’s Airpark Area are ready for tenants. ey will collectively bring thousands more employees to the city.

Chandler officials are hoping the projects, all located along Cooper Road from Loop 202 to Germann Road, will add vitality to the city’s youngest employment corridor in the 9-mile master-planned area around Chandler Municipal Airport.

e projects are as follows:

Mach 1 (developer Trammell Crow), a 205,000-square-feet business park east of Cooper Road and south of the Santan Loop 202.

Ascend (developer Irgens Partners) a 400,000-square-feet development located on the northwest corner of Germann and Cooper roads, has completed an 82,000-square-feet building from its first phase.

Metro Chandler (developers Meritex and Metro Commercial Properties), which has completed two buildings of 122,000 square feet and 89,000 square feet, suitable for light manufacturing, located on the northwest corner of Germann and Cooper roads.

Tiburon at Chandler Airport (developer Tiburon Development) consists of three buildings, ranging from 24,000 to 28,000 square feet, suitable for light industrial use. To come in its second phase is a threestory building for office use. e development, earlier called Puerto del Viaje, is located on the southeast corner of Germann and Cooper roads.

James Smith, economic development program manager for Chandler, said that the City did not extend any incentives to the developers.

“ ese developers have shown a strong confidence in this market in Chandler and in our future,” he said. “ ey may not fill up right away, but we do believe that there are companies that are going to be interested in being here.”

Mach 1 developer Trammell Crow

has held an open house that was attended by nearly 100 brokers. e

Class A suburban office spaces could be leased to a single tenant or multitenants.

“ e type of buildings we have are probably going to attract large, corporate America-type of tenants,” said Joe Ihrke, senior vice president.

“We have some prospects looking at the project. We’re actually quite pleased at the amount of activity that the property is generating at this early stage of completion.”

Ihrke said that Trammell Crow selected Chandler for its “extremely strong demographics.

“We feel like the strong demographics of Chandler Gilbert, the strong, highly educated work force, great school systems, all of that bodes well for employers looking to hire employees,” he said.

Also along Loop 202 and just a block away, Gilbert’s new 250-acre employment center, Rivulon, will eventually construct 3.5 million square feet of office and retail space. Isagenix, its first large tenant, moved its headquarters from Chandler’s Price Corridor to Rivulon in March.

Is Chandler wary of an over-supply of office space in the area?

Smith does not think so. “One of the things that both developments have going for them is excellent freeway access,” he said, adding that companies increasingly want visibility of their signs from the freeway.

Access to the highly educated population in the Southeast Valley is also on top of the list of attractions, he said.

Moreover, Smith said, Chandler needs new properties to recruit companies to the area.

“If we don’t have inventory, then they pass us up,” he said. “By having them in Chandler on the market ready to be leased, it just really gets us in the game for companies that are looking to be in the region.”

neighborhood hearsay

Like pizza deep-dish and rectangular? That’s a trick question, because of course everyone knows that the real question actually stops with the word “pizza,” as in “Like pizza?” And the answer, unless you’re one of those people who also hates puppies and spring mornings, is “Of course, you idiot!”

its version of the “Cinderella” ballet at the Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, April 23, and again at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 24. Tickets are $16 and $22. Go to www.chandlercenter.org for more info.

But, on the other hand, you just might actually prefer your savory pie to be deep-dish and rectangular, in which case you are in luck. Jet’s Pizza—a Michigan-based chain that’s been around since 1978 and has more than 300 locations in 20 states but has somehow until now missed our state—opened its first Arizona restaurant earlier this month on the southeast corner of Arizona Avenue and Ocotillo Road, in front of Home Depot.

The Jet’s menu actually includes four different kinds of crust, including hand-tossed, thin and New York style. But its best-known item is the deepdish, especially when served as the “8 Corner,” a rectangular pizza cut into eight squares. The “8 Corner” weighs in at $14.99, but other pizzas are priced from $7.99 to $11.

The menu also includes the usual array of subs, salads and wings, and if you go for the pizza you can get your crust flavored with such things as parmesan, Cajun seasoning and—for those of you who can’t make up your mind between pizza and a bagel— poppy seeds. Seriously, I cannot get behind poppy seeds in my pizza crust. For more information, visit www. jetspizza.com.

How many ways can you tell the story of Cinderella? There’s the original story, Disney’s movie, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical, all well known. Less known is one of the most brilliant retelling of the familiar fairy tale: a ballet from the 1940s, with music by Russian composer Sergei Prokofiev, who also brought us “Peter and the Wolf.”

Ballet Etudes will stage

Every time I drive through roads under repair and get to the other side and see the sign “End Road Work,” I think: “Yes! Let’s put an end to road work! I know that these guys with the helmets and heavy equipment are really just there to slow me down.” Apparently, that’s not what “End Road Work” means. But I’ll be looking for that sign this month as I drive McQueen road between Chandler Heights and Riggs roads. That’s where Grey Mountain Construction LLC will be spending $4 million widening the roadway, adding a second lane, plus bike lanes and turn lanes. Let’s hear it for road work!

Former Chandler teacher Erica Flynn, 31, was sentenced April 8 to 11 years in prison for manslaughter and three years’ probation for endangerment. Flynn drove drunk and crashed into a car driven by Kathleen Mae Searcy, 66, on Dec. 27, 2014, killing Searcy. The sentencing followed a plea deal with prosecutors.

What’s the buzz in your neighborhood? New babies or grandbabies? Announcements? Engagements? Let us know! Email hearsay@nearbynews.com.

Google to test self-driving cars in Chandler

By Ken Abramczyk

Google has chosen Chandler for the first Arizona test of its much-touted self-driving cars.

Chandler is the fourth U.S. city testing the cars, joining Austin, Texas; Mountain View, California; and Kirkland, Washington.

Four test cars are already on Chandler’s streets to create a detailed map and to test desert conditions. Google is not offering test drives to the public just yet; these test drives over the next several weeks will be conducted by Google staffers.

“With Chandler’s reputation as a technological and innovative hub, that went a long way for Chandler being named a test city,” Mayor Jay Tibshraeny said. “It’s a good fit for us being a technology-oriented city and attracting technological companies and businesses.”

ese vehicles can detect objects as far as two football fields away. Software helps the vehicle navigate around objects or people, like when the car needs to stop for a pedestrian or another vehicle.

Google developed the self-driving car test program to improve motorists’ safety, according to Jennifer Haroon, head of Google’s business operations for self-driving cars.

“About 33,000 people die on the roads in the U.S., and 94 percent of all crashes involve human error,” Haroon said. “We think that’s where the self-driving car can make an impact.”

Some day, the selfdriving car could assist drivers who experience vision problems or who have medical conditions and just can’t drive anymore.

carts crossing the roads. e test period is “open-ended.”

Riding in the cars are test drivers trained to take over the vehicle at any time. If the car isn’t operating the way it should, they’ll take over the vehicle immediately.

Chandler Children’s Choir

seeks new members

Google already has logged 1.5 million miles in test drives in Austin, Mountain View and Kirkland. Chandler’s test drive program also includes South Phoenix, Haroon said.

Lexus Hybrid SUVs will be tested in Chandler, she said. Drivers will be working with engineers to check how the technology fares in extreme temperatures and dust storms. ey’ll even have to learn how to check for golf

More information on the program is available at google. com/selfdrivingcar. Residents who see the test drivers on the road can give feedback on how the vehicle is driving and whether they would like to use a self-driving car.

For now, Google does not have plans in place for the public to test drive the vehicles in Chandler.

Tibshraeny expects to schedule a community forum within the next 60 days to discuss the self-driving cars and test program.

Tibshraeny would love to test drive one of the vehicles himself, but for now, he’s honored that Chandler was chosen.

“It’s pretty good stuff,” Tibshraeny said. “It’s exciting for us to be on the cutting edge of technology.”

Chandler Children’s Choir is holding auditions from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 14, at the Arizona Music Academy, 1700 E. Elliot Rd., Tempe. Auditions are open to girls and boys ages 7 to 15. No experience is necessary.

In its eighth season, the nonprofit community choir serves more than 100 youth in the East Valley. e program includes three choirs, a full performance schedules each season, and a progressive touring program. e choir season runs August through May, with weekly rehearsals in Tempe.

Chandler Children’s Choir’s repertoire focuses on classical, folk and art song styles. Singers learn note reading skills, choral blend and vocal technique through invigorating instruction and creative programming. For more information: www. chandlerchildrenschoir.org or call (480) 699-9846.

City installs new parking signage in

downtown Chandler

New directional signage is being placed in various locations in downtown Chandler to assist patrons in finding free parking available at three garages east of Arizona Avenue. e three garages are located at:

• Chandler City Hall, enter off Washington Street, between Frye Road and Chicago Street

• Ports America (formerly the Boyer building), near Washington and Buffalo streets

• First Credit Union, near Washington and Boston streets

Free parking is available 24 hours a day in the Chandler City Hall garage except in spots marked as reserved. Free parking also is available at the Ports America and First Credit Union garages after 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and all day during the weekends. In the Ports America and First Credit Union garages, patrons may park in any space available after 5 p.m., including spots marked as reserved.

“Downtown Chandler is a vibrant place full of great restaurants, bars, entertainment and family friendly events,” said Downtown Redevelopment Manager Kim Moyers. “ is outreach effort is to remind visitors that free parking is available on the streets and in nearby garages. It’s a wonderful amenity that visitors can appreciate.”

Parking brochures that highlight a map of the available parking will be distributed at downtown businesses as a friendly reminder to their patrons. Visitors also are encouraged to share where they found their parking spot in the area by taking a selfie and sharing it on social media sites using the hashtag #FindYourSpot and tagging @ cityofchandler.

For more information about downtown parking and other information about upcoming downtown activities, visit www. chandleraz.gov/downtown.

NEW PRIMARY CARE OFFICE

United Air Ambulance moves to Chandler

Arizona-based medevac service provider United Air Ambulance is opening a new, 5,839-square-foot facility in Chandler.

United Air Ambulance and its industry partner, Air Ambulance Billing, will occupy the new space at 2301 E. Yeager Dr., Suite. 2, in Chandler.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Chandler Chamber of Commerce is slated for 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 5. In addition to expanding its physical address the locally owned and operated company will add multiple positions, and considerably enhance its transport capabilities, allowing it to serve more patients and families in need of critical medical treatment and care.

“We’re thrilled that this new facility will allow us to serve more patients

and families in a timely and efficient manner, but we’re also excited to be among the companies supplying Valley residents with new and rewarding jobs,” said United Air Ambulance’s Cheyenne Lord.

In addition to providing emergency medical transport services domestically and internationally, United Air Ambulance has become known for its work with American travelers who may become injured or otherwise encounter medical issues while traveling abroad. United Air Ambulance’s team is also trained to ensure insurance companies adhere to industry laws and maintain fair practices in their dealings with patients.

For more about United Air Ambulance, visit www. UnitedAirAmbulance.com.

Timing is everything with sprinkler systems

By the City of Chandler Communications and Public Affairs Department.

Your home lawn sprinkler system uses about 10 gallons per minute. For most residential lawns, which have two groups of sprinklers and are watered for 15 minutes, that’s 300 gallons each time the lawn is watered. If you water every other day, it totals about 4,500 gallons per month.

Question: Is your irrigation timer set to water too much or too frequently? If so, you may be wasting water and money—not to mention killing your plants by over watering them.

To take the “mystery” out of plant and lawn irrigation, Valley water providers have created a landscape watering guide available at www.wateruseitwisely.com/ landscapewateringguide. e website features interactive watering guides

Sunday, May 8

that help residents determine precisely how much water is needed for turf, xeriscape plants and trees. It also provides a host of other highly effective water saving ideas. Chandler is offering several workshops designed to help residents learn how to use water more efficiently. e ABC’s of Yard Watering & Timer Operation will be held from 6 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. ursday, April 21, at Chandler City Hall, 175 S. Arizona Ave. Another class, Easy Irrigation Troubleshooting and Repair will be held from 6p.m. to 8:45 p.m. ursday, April 28, at the Chandler Senior Center, 202 E. Boston St. e classes are free to Chandler utility customers, but participants must register. Visit www.chandleraz. gov/water to register online, or call Chandler’s water conservation office at (480) 782-3580.

These Chandler Girl Scouts are golden

By Alison Bailin Batz

is year, the Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council named five Chandler girls—Reeti Banerjee, Ruchi Banerjee, Katelyn Boisvert, Rebecca Jernigan and Hannah Stevenson— have been honored with the highest award in Girl Scouting: the Gold Award.

“One of the most impactful parts of Girl Scouting is earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Tamara Woodbury, CEO of Girl Scouts–Arizona CactusPine Council. “ is prestigious award represents the highest achievement in Girl Scouting and challenges girls ages 14 to 17 to initiate meaningful, sustainable change locally, nationally, or globally through unique ‘Take Action’ projects of their own creation.”

According to Woodbury, 2016 is meaningful to the Girl Scouts as they are celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Gold Award. Earning the Gold Award is somewhat comparable to the Boy Scouts’ Eagle Scout. While both achievements require developing and completing a service project, Girl Scouts must create a project that is sustainable and continues to give back to the community long after she

moves on. Overall, the process usually takes 18 to 24 months and often involves seeking in-kind donations and recruiting volunteers.

Others recognize the value of the Gold Award, too. Some universities and colleges offer scholarships to award recipients and girls who enlist in the U.S. armed forces may receive advanced rank in recognition of their achievements.

“Empowering girls to lead is one of the greatest investments we can make,” said Woodbury. “When women adopt leadership roles, they contribute a unique set of skills, ideas and life experiences that enrich and strengthen communities. Girl Scouts, and the Gold Award specifically, gives girls the support and guidance they need as they step into impactful leadership roles.”

For many of these girls, this award is the culmination of more than 10 years in the Girl Scouts.

Here is a snapshot of the honorees’ good works:

Reeti Banerjee: oral health education

With hopes of one day becoming a

Street maintenance scheduled for west Chandler

By the City of Chandler Communications and Public Affairs Department.

A number of neighborhood streets in west Chandler will receive maintenance through July. e City collects data on the condition of its streets and uses a computerized preventive maintenance tracking system to prioritize and schedule repairs.

Some neighborhood streets will be slurry sealed, a process involving the application of a 3/8-inch layer of asphalt emulsion mixed with aggregate. When dried, the mixture provides a new riding surface. Other streets will be resurfaced by removing the top inch-and-a-half of old asphalt and replacing it with new pavement. is type of repair, called mill and inlay, becomes necessary when the existing pavement is in such condition that the street can no longer be maintained with slurry seal or microseal applications. In addition, an area around the Chandler Fashion Center will receive a pavement treatment made from recycled tire rubber. e application of the penetrating sealant known as Tire Rubber Modified Surface Seal (TRMSS) helps extend the life of streets by preserving pavement oils contained in the asphalt. For more information regarding Chandler’s street maintenance program, call (480) 7823500.

dentist, Reeti’s mission was to educate young children about the damaging effects of poor dental hygiene. Reeti researched the topic, and with a team of volunteers gave eight presentations, resulting in approximately 300 children receiving information and training on dental care.

Ruchi Banerjee: socioeconomic consequences of teen pregnancy

Ruchi’s Gold Award focused on educating fellow students about the socioeconomic consequences of teen pregnancy, including health challenges, low income and limited career opportunities. rough the use of informational posters and announcements over the intercom at five high schools, Ruchi was able to reach more than 11,000 students.

Katelyn Boisvert: addressing the plight of Monarch butterflies

Katelyn’s Gold Award addresses the conservation of Monarchs and pollinators of all kinds, while also preserving biodiversity, promoting community awareness, and encouraging citizen involvement. With the help of 50 volunteers, she

constructed a Monarch butterfly waystation and pollinator garden at Chandler Preparatory Academy.

Rebecca Jernigan: dogs helping people

Rebecca’s mission was to strengthen the connection between humans and dogs. She held training sessions for junior dog trainers and made the training information widely available by creating a website. ere have been more than 70,000 hits on her website. To connect junior trainers with trainers worldwide, she created a Facebook group, which has grown to 115 members.

Hannah Stevenson: PHS girls volleyball website development

Despite the success of Hannah’s high school volleyball team, there was a lack of support from fellow classmates. Hannah focused on increasing support of the women’s volleyball team by improving communication. To do this, she created a website for her team, developed its format and works yearround to keep the content updated.

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RETIRING IN TODAY’S WORLD

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RETIREMENT TAX STRATEGIES

• Setting up your current 401 (k) properly

• Why 401 (k)s and IRAs could negatively affect your retirement income

• Examining the three types of tax accounts and how to maximize the benefits of each

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• Why you may need as much or more income in retirement

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• Whether a Roth Conversion is right for you and how to do it efficiently and painlessly

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DISTRIBUTION PLANNING

• What are Required Minimum Distributions

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• Why the 4% Rule will not work in today’s environment

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• When and how you should take your benefits to maximize longterm income

• Updated Social Security strategies and how they relate to you

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• Explanation of provisional income

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ESTATE PLANNING AND LONG TERM CARE OPTIONS

• Options to pay for long term care events

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East Valley Moms

Muggle Fun

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

e view of

Universal Studios

Hollywood is menacing from our 22nd-floor room of the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City. We see the bright lights of the Simpson’s Krustyland, which stay illuminated all night. e Transformers ride, WaterWorld and Universal CityWalk are also easily spied.

But rising from the middle of the park is the intimidating, black Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, which is part of the forthcoming attraction e Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Although it officially debuted ursday, April 7, there were several points recently when the theme park opened the gates for various guests.

e Wizarding World of Harry Potter lives up to its advance press. Hogsmeade Village is straight out of a Christmas card, with its snowladen thatched cottages from which “icicles” hang. Muggles, as we average folks are called, can peruse the shops and the rides. It’s just an easy walk down the cobblestone streets.

Fudge, chocolate frogs, “candy floss” (the English term for cotton candy) and assorted jellybeans are found there. Really, anything you need to satisfy a sweet tooth is within reach. (And, believe me, we took advantage of the chocolate marshmallow fudge, which rivaled the treats from Michigan’s Mackinac Island.)

Just outside Honeydukes you’ll find some of the more anticipated treats— Butter Beer, Pumpkin Juice and Gilly Water.

I tried the lemon herb half chicken and it was the juiciest meat I have had in a long time. My niece was equally impressed with her fish and chips, while my English husband and my mother had to naturally try the Shepherd’s Pie. All four meals were great, but it totaled more than $80.

A nonalcoholic drink, Butter Beer tastes like a mixture of vanilla and butterscotch with a consistency of a root beer float. It’s a little sweet, but it’s a musttry for any Harry Potter fan.

Now, don’t let the verbiage on the attraction’s map fool you. It mentions that sampling of beer is available at the Hog’s Head Pub. ere’s no free sampling to be had, but there’s plenty of alcoholic drinks to purchase— domestic and imported beer, Wizard’s Brew, Dragon Scale, Fire Whiskey, wine, spirits and mixed drinks.

about 20 minutes playing with his stuffed animal. Presumably his wife, the woman took extra care in setting up their owls for a “photo shoot” with their cellphones.

Upon entering the attraction, we were greeted by the Hogwarts Express train and its loveable engineer outside of the Hogsmeade Station. Quickly, we were fully immersed in Diagon Alley, home to a slew of shops, including Zonko’s Joke Shop, where we scored Robot Lilliput, a tin wind-up robot. Diagon Alley also boasts confectionaries from Harry Potter’s world in a shop called Honeydukes.

Proceed through Diagon Alley and you’ll see a long line snaking through Hogsmeade. It’s a queue of Muggles yearning to try English meals like Shepherd’s Pie, bangers and mash (OK, sausage and mashed potatoes), fish and chips and a variety of desserts at ree Broomsticks.

Across the cobblestone pathway is one of the hot attractions. It’s the Owl Post in the center of Hogsmeade where fans can send letters with a Hogsmeade postmark and purchase stationery and stamps from the gift shop along with owl-related toys and gifts. An elderly, robe-wearing couple was so enamored with their owls that the man filmed himself for

Adjacent to Owl Post is the store Dervish and Banges, which offers such magical items as Sneakoscopes, Spectrespecs, Omnioculars and e Monster Book of Monsters. Muggles can give into their Quidditch needs by purchasing T-shirts, Quaffles, Golden Snitches and brooms including the Nimbus Two ousand and One and the Firebolt. Hogwarts school uniforms and clothing—including the $109 robes—are available here as well.

One of the highlights is Ollivanders, which has been selling fine wands “since 382 B.C.” Shopkeepers and

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is worth every bit of the hype ... continues on page 19

top 10 family events

April 20-May 20, 2016

1 Sesame Street Live: Make a New Friend

Elmo, Grover, Abby Cadabby and their Sesame Street friends welcome Chamki, Grover’s friend from India, to Sesame Street. Together, they explore friendship and cultural similarities.

WHEN: Saturday, May 14, at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.; and Sunday, May 15, at 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

WHERE: Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix COST: Starts at $15

INFO: (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com

2 Harlem Globetrotters

Celebrating 90 years of providing smiles, sportsmanship and service to millions of people worldwide, the Harlem Globetrotters bring their talents to Talking Stick Resort Arena.

WHEN: Saturday, May 7, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

WHERE: Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix COST: $30.91 to $152.45 INFO: www.talkingstickresortarena. com/events/detail/harlemglobetrotters-1

3 Larry Fitzgerald Double Play Celebrity Softball Game

The Arizona Cardinals star and his friends play a friendly game of softball to raise money for his First Down Fund. WHEN: Saturday, April 23, at 6 p.m. WHERE: Salt River Fields, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale COST: $20 to $500 INFO: http://bit.ly/1Rkq7NP

4 Arizona Diamondbacks vs. San Francisco Giants

The first 10,000 kids receive a D-backs youth T-ball set courtesy of MLB Play Ball.

WHEN: Sunday, May 15, at 1:10 p.m.

WHERE: Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson, Phoenix

COST: $16 to $250

INFO: (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com

5 CinePark May Movie Series

Chandler’s newest family-friendly event will feature “Inside Out” on May 6, “Goosebumps” on May 13 and “Minions” on May 20.

WHEN: Fridays May 6, May 13 and May 20, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

WHERE: Tumbleweed Park, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler COST: Free

INFO: (480) 782-2669, (480) 782-2727 or www.chandleraz.gov

6 Rumpelstiltskin

The classic tale is about the strange little fellow with the hard-toguess name and the miller’s daughter who must spin straw into gold. WHEN: Wednesday through Sunday, May 4 through May 29, various times WHERE: Great Arizona Puppet Theater, 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix COST: $7 to $10

INFO: (602) 262-2050 or www.azpuppets.org

7 Deb’s Dragons: Fear Factors for Families

Deb from Deb’s Dragons will scare, amaze and educate guests about “creepy” animals from snakes to tarantulas.

WHEN: Thursday, April 28, from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m.

WHERE: Butterfly Wonderland, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale COST: $15 adults; $10 children INFO: http://butterflywonderland. com/event-calendar/

8 The Ultimate Collection: Iconic Baseball Cards from the Diamondbacks

See 42 highly prized sports trading cards in the world, including the legendary T206 Honus Wagner. WHEN: Through April 24, various times

WHERE: Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix COST: $8

INFO: (602) 257-1222 or www.phxart.org

9 Underwater FantaSEA

Fourteen artists show off their works in the media of painting, sculpture, textile arts, prints, photographs and digital art. WHEN: Through May 29, various times WHERE: i.d.e.a. Museum, 150 W. Pepper Pl., Mesa COST: $8

INFO: (480) 644-4332 or www.ideamuseum.org

10 LEGOLAND Discovery Center

The indoor family attraction ideal for children ages 3 to 10 features two LEGO rides, 4-D cinema and a large soft-play area.

WHEN: Ongoing

WHERE: LEGOLAND Discovery Center at Arizona Mills, 5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle, Suite 135, Tempe COST: $22; free for 2 and younger INFO: http://bit.ly/23g1lpo

Student Chronicles

Know a Chandler student who’s doing something remarkable? Send items for student chronicles to christina@timespublications.com.

Jacob Legumina, a Chandler native studying sociology at San Diego State University, was named to Scholars Without Borders, an honors society dedicated to promoting international exchange and service and recognizing scholarly achievement in an international context.

Scholars Without Borders supports programs with an international focus and builds awareness of international issues and opportunities. Members strive to inspire SDSU students, faculty and staff to become engaged and committed scholar-citizens of the global community.

San Diego State University is a major public research institution offering bachelor’s degrees in 89 areas, master’s degrees in 78 areas and doctorates in 21 areas. e university provides transformative experiences, both inside and outside of the classroom, for its 35,000 students. For information, visit www.sdsu.edu

Hailey Heeringa, a senior at Valley Christian High School in Chandler, has announced her intention to attend Dordt College and join the softball program.

Heeringa has a .715 batting average, .730 on-base percentage, 16 hits, and 19 runs batted in this season. e infielder has already hit two home runs, with three triples, and two doubles through six games played. She earned all-state and allsection honors during her junior season. In 2015 she hit .510 with a .519 on-base percentage. She had 44 hits, 38 RBIs, and 18 stolen bases.

Heeringa was also part of a Valley Christian team that finished the 2014 state softball runner-up. She is a two-year team captain and earned the team’s Total Release (hustle) Award as a sophomore. Heeringa was also a part of Valley Christians 2014 basketball team that finished runner-up at the state tournament and earned the team’s “rookie of the year” award in 2013.

Hailey is the daughter of Keith and Erica Heeringa of Chandler. She intends to study education at Dordt.

Dordt College in Sioux Center, Iowa, is a comprehensive Christian college rooted in the Reformed tradition. e Defender athletic program is a part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics and the Great Plains Athletic Conference.

Academic decathlon prepares students for college and career readiness

By Laurie Struna

Each year, students from Dobson, Mesa, Mountain View, Red Mountain, Skyline and Westwood high schools represent their schools in rigorous competitions known as the Academic Decathlon or AcDec. e name hints at the demanding sport of decathlon for good reason. Students train like athletes, showing perseverance, endurance, dedication and a desire to excel.

“Academic Decathlon is an extraordinarily worthwhile endeavor,” said Joan Snyder, English teacher and Academic Decathlon coach at Mountain View High School. “We ask students to devote their lives to study, and they receive a well-rounded education. Students are fully prepared to excel in college. ey are our Flinn Scholars and Barrett, the Honors College students.”

It takes a substantial time commitment to prepare for these competitions. Regionals are in February, and state championships are in March. e new topic for the next year is released shortly after the state championship. Students then begin to prepare for the next season. is year’s competition topic was India. Students mastered hundreds of pages of information about science, literature, art, music, social science, economics and mathematics, and demonstrated their knowledge by taking written examinations, delivering speeches, participating in panel interviews and competing in a super quiz.

“ is competition is quite a mental workout,” said Casjen Schmid, a Mountain View junior who brought home four medals, including a gold in the essay event. “But the speech and interview events are the real test. It’s when my mind runs a mile a minute, especially during the impromptu speech and interview. Coming up with answers to complex questions in a formal manner is difficult.”

Jaret Dasenbrock, a Red Mountain senior and gold medalist in the econ and interview categories, said

defending his regional gold medal at state was important to him.

“My name was announced, and I heard my row go wild,” Dasenbrock said with a grin. “It felt like I was walking through a dream, while ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ played in the background. I saw my coach and he gave me a thumbs up.”

AcDec is designed to include students from all achievement levels. Each team is divided into three divisions based on students’ grades: honors (A’s), scholastic (B’s) and varsity (C’s). When students join the team, they become part of a family where success and achievement is contagious.

“It is the No. 1 way a high school student can expand their world knowledge and enhance their highschool experiences,” shared Kate Williams, a Red Mountain senior, and gold medal recipient of the coveted outstanding essay trophy. “Interested students can get involved by talking to the coach at their school or taking it as a class.

Ian Carver, a Mountain View senior and gold medalist in social science, attributes his family with encouraging his participation in the program.

“AcDec has widened my horizons,” he said. e skills I acquired by participating in the speech and interview portions will be indispensable to me later in life.”

Mountain View, Red Mountain and Westwood high schools finished in the top 10 in the 2016 state team competition. District students brought home 31 individual competition medals.

slices of life

By Jill Pertler

Monday melancholy

Oh, the dreaded Monday. We all experience and endure it; although depending on your specific schedule, your Monday might fall on a ursday. Still, we understand the concept of Monday melancholy (or ursday melancholy, as the case may be).

I’ve never been one to shy away from Mondays. It’s as good a time as any to get things done and put things off. But I have to confess: lately they’ve been getting to me. I find myself feeling listless and unmotivated on the first day of the standard workweek.

You know what they say, when life gives you lemons...In this case, when life gives you a Monday, I say make it a three-day weekend. Unfortunately, that’s not typically possible. Like it or not, we’ve all got to deal with Mondays upward of 50—or maybe even more—times every year.

Science backs me up on this: Mondays are unavoidable. Research has proven that each morning when you wake up, there is a 14.2857 percent chance the day will be a Monday. You can’t argue with numbers because numbers don’t lie—and not just because they can’t talk.

I, for one, am not going to give 14.2857 percent of my days over to melancholy. ere are good things about Mondays. Sure there are. You just have to click your heels together and believe.

Monday marks the beginning of the workweek. Opportunities for accomplishing tasks and attaining goals spread out in the days ahead, waiting to be conquered. Monday is filled with possibilities.

Going to work on Monday gives you a nice break from weekend chores like scrubbing toilets or cleaning out the garage.

A Monday morning commute gives you a break from life, but not traffic. It can be a time to reflect on the past and plan for the future, but not send or receive text messages. You can rock out and sing loudly to the radio on your choice of station without your kids or spouse changing it on you, which can be irritating, even on a Saturday.

As you are making your commute, remember to smile. It’s Monday! If you do, you’ll be ahead of the majority. According to Internet lore, most people do not smile on Monday until 11:16 a.m. and that’s probably because by that time they are anticipating lunch.

Monday is a good day to put things off until tomorrow. You’ve got lots more time to complete the project with a Friday deadline, which seems a long way off on Monday. Procrastination and Mondays go together like wine and cheese.

While procrastinating on a Monday, you can take the chance to catch up on all the social media activity you missed over the weekend (during your

breaks and lunch, of course). You can view photos of all the exciting things your friends did while you were home cleaning the garage.

Monday rhymes with fun-day, which is a great time to test the pairing of wine and cheese alluded to earlier (after work, of course).

Sometimes the sun is shining on Monday. In fact, according to highly accurate Internet statistics, it is the least rainy day of week. at makes it a Monday sun-day, which beats out rainy days and Mondays any day of the week.

Finally, Monday’s a great day to count your blessings. When you do, I’m pretty sure you’ll decide Mondays aren’t so bad after all. Besides, at the end of the day, you’ve only got three more to go—until Friday.

Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright, author and member of the National Society of Newspaper Columnists. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.

2015 Community Education summer programs

she’s crafty

By Erica Odello

While cruising Pinterest recently, I came across an Etsy listing for cute glass jars that had been turned into bugs and then placed around the yard. I thought it was a cute idea and definitely something I could create instead of purchase. You will need: Decorative jars, hook for hanging, 10-14 gauge wire, wire snips, flat and needle nose pliers, outdoor epoxy, washers

Finding a good, cute jar is the key to this project. In my head I was seeing something akin to an old perfume bottle. What I was finding were very modern vases that look more like the bottle in the classic TV series “I Dream of Jeannie.” e problem wasn’t insurmountable, just made me rethink my approach.

While any wire can be used, I ended up buying 50 feet of electrical wire from Home Depot because it was available in a number of colors and my kids preferred the red wire to anything silver or copper.

I started the project by unwinding about 8 feet of wire, folding it in half, and then fashioning wings with a series of loops and twists. Use the flat nose pliers to twist the ends together two to three times to secure the wings in place.

Using the loose ends, wrap them tightly around the bottle, joining them with two twists on the opposite side from the wings. Trim the pieces to equal lengths, then use the needle nose pliers to loop the ends back on themselves. ese form your first set of legs and feet.

e next step was to create the loop for hanging the bugs. Cut another 5 feet of wire, fold in half and then cut into two pieces. Use one of the handles on the pliers to fashion a loop in the middle of one of the pieces. Straighten the ends, then twist them together with the other piece of wire five to six times. Spread the loose ends at 45 degree angles from the twisted ends, then wrap them around the bottle and secure with the flat nose pliers. Trim the loose ends to be the same length, then use the needle nose pliers to twist the ends back on themselves creating feet at the end of each leg. e final step is to glue two washers on the end of the bottle as eyes for the bug. Once the epoxy has set, the bugs are ready to be displayed outside. I used a dollar store trellis for my bugs, but I will probably make more and use fishing line to hang them from the branches of a tree or from the eaves of my patio.

around the neighborhood

Photos by Kimberly Carrillo

1. Yohanes and Kenneth Heryauto relax before the ride. 2. Sandy Darling and Donna Wetz are ready for the ride. 3. Public Information Officer Jim Phipps opens the event with a short speech. 4. The Reed family enjoy the ride together. 5. The riders line up for the start of the event. 6. The route is well laid out. 7. Jan Peterson and George Martinez get ready to cycle. 8. Raelynn Gutierrez rides in style. 9. Whole Foods gives away health bars and fruit for the participants. 10. Riders and observers had a great time at the event.

10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Chandler residents joined Mayor Jay Tibshraeny for a bike ride along the scenic Paseo Trail during the annual Family Bike Ride on April 9. The 7.4-mile ride was held in conjunction with Valley Bike Month (April). The event was free and participants received a T-shirt, along with information about bicycle safety, transit services and related topics.

wandkeepers help visitors choose the appropriate wand by measuring customers’ dominant hands. ese wands, which average $49, aren’t just showpieces. Point them at the different shops and attractions to activate a few tricks that we’ll leave to your imagination.

It may be simple, but I found the Frog Choir to be especially fun. A couple times a day, the Frog Choir—three “students” who sing and one beatboxing young man, all of whom are accompanied by croaking frogs—hits the stage. eir voices, as well as that of the choir director, were incredible, but the beat-boxing student stole the show.

But now it’s time for “the” ride. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey made the news when, shall we say, it made plenty of riders ill. My niece and husband fared just fine as they made their way through the familiar classrooms and corridors of

Hogwarts, courtesy of a 3-D movie.

e Muggles and students encounter plenty of characters, including the spooky Death Eaters. Harry, Hermione and Ron lead riders through the adventure, which includes the chance to get advice from Dumbledore.

at’s all we’ll say about that. You’ll have to experience this for yourself.

e Flight of the Hippogriff is Universal Studios Florida’s first outdoor, family-friendly coaster. It spirals and flies around the pumpkin patch and swoops past Hagrid’s Hut.

e Wizarding World of Harry Potter is just a shuttle bus away from the stunning, 24-story Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City, which boasts a scrumptious prime rib and seafood buffet on the weekends.

But, as my 21-year-old niece, who describes herself as a “huge Harry Potter fan,” says, e Wizarding World of Harry Potter is “a dream come true.” at applies even to lukewarm Harry Potter fans.

But the Harry Potter love doesn’t end there. Check out the Warner Bros. Studio Tour where memorabilia from the

films sits on the second floor of a

tour, which costs $62 a person. But there’s even more fun. Studio Tour, Stage 48: Script to Screen gives guests the opportunity—for a charge—to “fly” on Harry Potter’s broomstick. It employs the same green screen technology used in the “Harry Potter” movie productions.

events calendar

April 20-May 20, 2016

Chandler Farmers Market

Find more than 35 local vendors who include produce, microgreens, tamales, hot sauces, cooking sauces, pastries, sweets, relishes, honey, cheese, tea, crafts, natural beauty products, soaps and much more. WHEN: Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

WHERE: Dr. AJ Chandler Park East, 3 S. Arizona Pl., Chandler COST: Free admission INFO: www.downtownchandler.org/ events/2016/4/21/chandler-farmersmarket

Downtown Chandler Art Walk

Browse many different types of art available from talented artists. It’s not only a great opportunity to check out art, but patrons can visit the unique establishments in downtown Chandler. All artists must go through a jury process to be accepted in the Art Walk. Only fine art and fine craft submissions will be considered.

WHEN: Third Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

WHERE: Downtown Chandler COST: Free admission INFO: www.downtownchandler.org/ artwalk/

Ballet Etudes’ Cinderella

The classic tale of Cinderella, her clumsy stepsisters, a magical fairy godmother and a handsome prince

comes to life in Ballet Etudes’ fanfavorite production.

WHEN: Saturday, April 23, through Sunday, April 24, various times

WHERE: Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler COST: $16 to $22

INFO: (480) 782-2680 or www.chandlercenter.org

Great Southwest Cajun Fest

Celebrating Cajun culture and handcrafted beer, the Great Southwest Cajun Fest will showcase the heart and soul of New Orleans paired with Arizona fusion and flavor, featuring live music with jazz, blues and contemporary swing revival bands.

WHEN: Saturday, April 23, from noon to 9 p.m.

WHERE: Downtown Chandler Library Complex/Stage, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler COST: $10 to $65

INFO: www.downtownchandler.org/ events/2016/4/23/great-sw-cajun-fest

Clint Black

The multimillion-selling country megastar is releasing “Purpose,” his first full-length album of new songs in a decade.

WHEN: Friday, April 29, at 8 p.m.

WHERE: Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler COST: $34 to $90

INFO: (800) 946-4452 or www.wingilariver.com

Arizona’s Got Talent: Shining Stars

Top kid and young adult acts will entertain during the event that benefits abused and trafficked kids.

WHEN: Saturday, April 30, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

WHERE: Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler COST: $20

INFO: (480) 782-2680 or www.chandlercenter.org

Chandler Symphony Classical Series “Musical Majesty” is the name of the concert that provides quality symphonic and orchestral music performed by a wide range of volunteer musicians.

WHEN: Sunday, May 1, at 3 p.m.

WHERE: Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler COST: Free INFO: (480) 782-2680 or www.chandlercenter.org

David Cross

The stand-up comedian, actor and writer is primarily known for his standup performances, the HBO sketch comedy series “Mr. Show” and his role as Tobias Fünke in the sitcom “Arrested Development.”

WHEN: Friday, May 6, at 8 p.m.

WHERE: Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd.,

Chandler COST: $42 to $82

INFO: (800) 946-4452 or ww.wingilariver.com

Chandler Children’s Choir: Simply Sonic “Simply Sonic” will feature guest artists Simply Three. The choir will showcase its repertoire of folk, classical and art songs, and then kick it up a notch with the string trio.

WHEN: Saturday, May 7, at 7 p.m.

WHERE: Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler COST: $18 to $25

INFO: (480) 782-2680 or www.chandlercenter.org

Night Ranger

With 30plus years in the business,

Night Ranger has scored several hits including “Sister Christian,” “When You Close Your Eyes” and “(You Can Still) Rock in America.”

WHEN: Friday, May 13, at 8 p.m.

WHERE: Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler

COST: $42 to $82

INFO: (800) 946-4452 or ww.wingilariver.com

Mingle and sip through spirits

By Tim J. Randall

With aerial bartenders, craft liquors to sample and demonstrations, the 3-year-old Chandler Craft Spirits Festival is moving to Ocotillo to enhance the experience.

“In previous years, we were in downtown Chandler and now we have moved the event to downtown Ocotillo and will feature an indoor/outdoor venue with a VIP area overlooking the lake,” said Tiffany Shultz, event producer.

e event, set for 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, April 30, celebrates enthusiasts’ enjoyment of craft liquors, including bourbon, vodka and tequila while providing a fine mix of wine, beer and assorted cocktails. Activities range from demonstrations and seminars to aerial bartenders.

“We have also invited top bartenders in the state to participate in a variety of demos,” said Shultz.

ere will be numerous entertainment opportunities and a designated VIP area offering guests access to perks. Patrons will also be treated to a delicious assortment of food options.

“Attendees can expect a variety of food from small plates to full menus. We have food trucks and local restaurants,” she said. “In addition, we have partnered with San Marcos hotel to offer a full experience. e San Marcos food will be featured in our VIP area.”

Of course the craft liquors are at the forefront of the festival and this year’s edition offers an even greater roster of alcohol artisans.

“We are so excited that we have many new local distilleries that will be involved in the event this year including: Caskworks, Hamilton, Arizona Distilling and O.H.S.O. but we have also invited boutique distilleries from across the region,” Shultz said. “We will have a judging panel of industry people come out from 3:30 to 4 p.m. to select a winner in several categories.”

Jon Lane, owner of O.H.S.O. Eatery + Brewery + Distillery, said he is excited about participating.

“We are just getting started in Arizona, most (distilleries) are under 5 years old and making high quality products already,” he said. “Arizona has already done well in national competitions and soon you will see us grow dramatically in state and national. We are just beginning.”

Attendance for the event is expected to be robust with about 3,000 visitors attending, according to Shultz. Patrons will be contributing to a great cause as they imbibe—Southwest Human Development, a nonprofit dedicated to early childhood development serving 135,000 children and their families.

“We’re excited to be teaming up with the Chandler Craft Spirits Festival to help create greater awareness of the importance of early childhood development and raise funding for these critical programs and services in our community,” said Jake Adams, chief development officer for Southwest Human Development.

“ is year’s festival is going to feature so many great tastings, demonstrations, food, music and more, and we can’t think of a more fun way for the community to come together to support Arizona kids and their families.”

Shultz sees exciting future for the festival.

“We see the event growing and supporting more and more local distilleries as they open up,” she said. “We love to support local distilleries, breweries and our local wineries.”

Chandler Craft Spirits Festival is from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, April 30, in downtown Ocotillo, 2475 W. Queen Creek Rd., Chandler. Tickets are $10 to $60. For more information, visit http://bit.ly/1Rytn3F or www. chandlercraftspiritsfestival.com.

Thursday, May 19th through Saturday, May 21st

Friday, June 10th and Friday, June 17th

Friday, Sept. 9th through Saturday, Sept. 10th

Bartlett Lake Marina Carefree, Arizona 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

You are invited to attend as many Days on the Lake as you can!

By Judi King

American Way Marketplace Café

When Merchant Square Antique Marketplace owner Mike Moore sought to open a restaurant in the mall, he wanted to be sure it seamlessly fit in.

“My goal is to give customers a vintage dining experience,” said Moore about American Way Marketplace Café. “You can’t fake vintage.”

Moore said that all the furnishings were acquired from shuttered buildings, most of them in the last century. e counters are made from timber from an English church. He procured the booths from a 1950s western bar in Buckeye, and the chairs from an old schoolhouse in California. He found the smoker nearby at the iconic Bill Johnson’s Big Apple in Mesa.

Moore discovered the 1950s soda chest in Utah and put it back to work holding more than 150 varieties of hard-tofind drinks. All of the display shelves, signs and décor—even the walls and windows which were repurposed to fit into the café—are historic.

the breads, pastries, smoked meats, salad dressings, soup, chili and sauces are made daily from the finest ingredients. Moore credits his two chefs, Jared Allen and Jared Horton, for the exceptional food that is served at the café.

Both men contribute to the innovative selections at the Marketplace Café. ough the smoker is fundamental for the incredibly moist and tasty smoked meats like the double-smoked turkey and the 30-day wet-aged tri-tip beef, it is also used to create some unique entrees that really freshen the menu.

To create his version of a smoked egg salad sandwich ($6), Morton boils the eggs, deshells them and places them in the smoker for three hours to allow the smoke to completely permeate the eggs. at extra smokiness makes it taste like egg salad—and bacon. It’s a scrumptious surprise.

e taste and texture is remarkably similar. e smoked jackfruit is served on a brioche bun and topped with tangy slaw and house barbecue sauce ($7.50).

ere are eight sandwiches on the menu ranging in price from $6 to $9. Although the smoked meat sandwiches are the favorites, there are other inventive selections such as the Cuban club made with smoked pork or chicken, deli ham, turkey, bacon, Havarti, horseradish cheese and dill pickle, served with Cajun aioli on a ciabatta roll ($9).

from that Allen makes, using his sourdough bread recipe for the crust ($7 to $8).

Being a cheese lover, I decided to try American Way’s house soup, cheddar ale ($3.50 to $6), which is a mix of cream cheese, sautéed green and red peppers, buttermilk, roux, ale, house-made croutons and cheddar. I loved it. ere were so many layers of flavor in this tasty soup.

e salad selections range from $7 to $9 and include my favorite, the BLT, which is made with bacon, romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onions and feta cheese tossed in a buttermilk dressing, served with sourdough bread ($8).

Aside from the sandwiches and salads, there are four distinctively delicious flatbread pizzas to choose

Although I had no room for dessert, I was lured by the description of Allen’s chocolate croissant ($3.50), when he said that it has 48 laminations—with butter on each layer—and the process is spread out over three days. I could not resist. It was decadent.

“Vintage craftsmanship is built to last for generations,” Moore said. e food is traditional, as wellhandcrafted and freshly made. All of

A vegetarian, Allen created a recipe for a smoked meat substitute by using a 20-pound jackfruit—the large tree fruit native to Southeast Asia. e jackfruit is smoked for three hours, then prepared just like pulled pork.

What’s Cooking?

By Jan D’Atri

English Trifle (Zuppa Inglese)

I call this dish my “made-for-TV dessert.”

I’m sharing one of my own family’s recipes that’s one of the simplest, most beautiful desserts you can present to the table. It is the sensational English trifle or “Zuppa Inglese,” a favorite in the D’Atri family for decades. What I really love about it is it looks like a “bowl of extravagance,” yet it’s literally a piece of cake to put together. From the top, our English trifle looks like a giant bowl of whipped cream finished off with fresh fruit. But from the sides you can see all the layers of cake, vanilla pudding and sliced strawberries, kiwi

and boysenberries. Sometimes what you don’t see is the best part—a subtle brushing of Grand Marnier over the cake layers.

By the way, how did the English Trifle get an Italian nickname?

e stories are as varied as the recipes you’ll find for this elegant dessert. But I’m sure it came about because when you dive your spoon into the layers, the consistency of the trifle is more like a sweet, rich soup or “zuppa.”

is is our “Sunday Brunch on the patio” time of year and the English Trifle is the perfect edible center piece.

English Trifle (Zuppa Inglese)

1 box of yellow cake mix

1 box of pudding and pie filling (do not use instant)

2-3 pints of ripe strawberries

1/4 cup granulated sugar

6-8 fresh ripe kiwi, peeled and sliced

2 pints of fresh blueberries or boysenberries

1 pint whipping cream

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup Grand Marnier

Bake cake mix as directed and pour into three 8-inch pie tins. If you only have one pie pan, bake each for about 12-15 minutes or until done. Prepare vanilla pudding as directed, and set aside. Chop one pint of strawberries and combine with granulated sugar. Slice second pint of strawberries thin. Slice kiwi fruit. Place the first cake disc in a trifle or clear glass bowl. Brush on one third of the Grand Marnier. Around the edge of the trifle bowl, alternate slices of kiwi and strawberries, laying fruit flat against the bowl. With a spoon, spread strawberries and sugar combination over cake layer. Drop spoonfuls of one half of the pudding over strawberry mixture. Add second cake disc and brush with Grand Marnier. Line the edge of the bowl with fresh blueberries or boysenberries. Add third cake disc. Brush with liquor and spoon strawberry mixture and pudding over cake. Combine whipped cream, vanilla and powdered sugar, beating until stiff. Spread whipped cream over pudding and decorate with sliced fruit. For the final touch, spoon some whipped cream into a piping bag and create a mound in the middle of the cake and top with a fresh strawberry. Refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight. Spoon into clear dessert bowls or parfait glasses. Serves approximately 8.

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By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Turf and Sport owner opens Artificial Grass Superstore

In the early 2000s, Mike Alexander was looking to change careers. Little did he know that a visit to the home of his wife’s grandmother would offer an idea for that opportunity.

“We went to her house in Sun Lakes and she backed up to a golf course,” Alexander said. “Her grass looked incredible—better than the golf course. I went out with my son, who was 1, and realized it was synthetic.” at piqued his curiosity about synthetic turf.

quote, or even purchase the products to do the installation themselves.

“We’re a one-stop shop for all of your synthetic turf needs,” Alexander said. “We have everything you need here.”

e store has pallets of product as well as tools for rent, like power brooms.

“We have specialty tools that you would need that we rent out,” he said.

In 2004, Alexander bought the rights to a company that was new in the market. Four years ago, he switched to his own brand and Turf and Sport was born. At the beginning of this year, he opened his first local brick-and-mortar store, Artificial Grass Superstore, at 221 E. Willis Rd., Chandler. For more information, call (480) 726-2411 or visit http:// artificialgrasssuperstore.com/. He also has a store in Santa Ana, California.

“We’ve always had a warehouse in Chandler, but it was in an industrial park and it was tucked away,” Alexander said. “We weren’t really set up for people just to walk in. Now we have someone behind the counter. All the samples are on the wall. You can see us from Arizona Avenue, so we’re getting a lot of traffic through there.”

At the Artificial Grass Superstore, customers can stop by and request a

Now is the perfect time to install synthetic grass, Alexander added. He said when he drives through neighborhoods near his Gilbert home, about half of the yards have artificial grass.

“ at’s how popular it has become,” he said. “It’s a lot different now—even in the last two years. It looks so much better than a couple years ago and it performs a lot better. It doesn’t wear down when you walk on it. It stands back up.”

Alexander has completed some pretty impressive jobs. He and his team installed synthetic grass at the Hotel del Coronado on Coronado Island, California, between the hotel and the beach.

He’s also worked with the Arizona Diamondbacks and the wedding lawn at El Chorro Lodge in Paradise Valley, as well as model home complexes.

“We have a lot of cool, fun jobs that we’ve done.”