SanTan Sun News - Nov. 19, 2016

November 19 - December 2, 2016 www.SanTanSun.com

Hamilton junior follows in father’s footsteps to become Eagle Scout

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Before Scott Bomberg was born, his mother and father yearned for him to be an Eagle Scout.

“I remember driving home from my first ultrasound almost 18 years ago and Scotty’s father and I talked about how we hoped he’d be an Eagle Scout one day like his dad,” said his mom, Joan Kilbey.

“Throughout the rest of the pregnancy, everyone referred to him as ‘The Little Cub Scout.’”

Scott followed his parents’ dream and became an Eagle Scout after planting 27 trees to renew Tumbleweed Park.

“I thought it went really well,” Scott said. “A lot of people came out to support us and they worked really hard. It was a good effort. We had a good 30 people at one point.”

Scott took his task seriously. He sought an Eagle Scout project for some time. After discussing ideas with his mother, they arrived at the treeplanting project.

“I feel like one of the reasons why it was a good project is because of a quote that I saw online, ‘Society grows great when people plant trees whose shade they will never sit in,’” he said.

“That’s really important. We take a lot of stuff for granted, like the things that generations past have provided for us. It

Chandler provided the trees through its wholesale nursery supplier, Kilbey said. Barro’s Pizza on Alma School and Germann roads donated the pizzas for the volunteer lunch. Becky Purinton of Mesa and Kilbey, who works for Better Homes and Gardens, Move Time Realty, supplied water, cupcakes and sodas for all the volunteers.

The experience just caps a terrific experience that Scott has had.

“To me, it’s one of my favorite things that I’ve been involved in,” he said.

“I’ve been involved in Scouts since the first grade. I stuck with it. I love the camaraderie. Some of my best friends are there. We learn pretty interesting stuff.”

That includes serving as a counselor at Camp Raymond, Which is between Williams and Flagstaff.

“I was on the climbing staff,” he said. “I learned a lot about knots and anchor systems. We were having Scouts climb and rappel. The coolest thing about that is they were able to conquer their fears and do something a little crazy and fun.”

A junior at Hamilton High School, Scott has an idea about what he would like to study in college.

“When I graduate, I want to go to one of the colleges in Arizona,” he said. “I’m felt good because we were contributing to society and giving our city something

that other people might be able to see one day.”

Two Chandler legislators land key leadership roles in new session Chandler resident Kelly Schwab steps in as new city attorney

BY PAUL MARYNIAK

In the wake of the Nov. 8 election, Chandler can now boast of having two key leaders in both chambers of the state Legislature when it goes into session in January.

And the election added a touch of blue to the previously solid Republic delegation serving the city.

Sen. Steve Yarbrough will become the state Senate president while J.D. Mesnard of Chandler was elected by his GOP colleagues as House speaker.

Both men represent District 17, which covers parts of Chandler and Gilbert, and sailed to victory in the election, along with newcomer Republican Jeff Weninger, a former city councilman.

Weninger and Mesnard handily defeated Jennifer Pawlik, the lone Democrat running for the two LD 18 House seats.

BY TIM J. RANDALL

Kelly

Schwab

assumed the role of city attorney a week after the City Council nominated and approved her for the position on Nov 7.

“I am extremely fortunate to take on the responsibilities of city attorney for Chandler,” said Schwab, a 17-year Chandler resident.

“I am excited to lead such a great staff and help facilitate the development of the council’s agenda.”

A doctoral graduate of the University of Arizona College of Law, Schwab began her career working for a small firm in Tucson and quickly earned her first opportunity to practice municipal law for Marana.

“I started at the ground level of the Dove Mountain project in Marana as the town’s attorney,” Schwab said. “It was my first master-planned

not sure which one yet. I’m trying to get scholarships and the like. I think I want to study medicine and go premed.”

Scott is quick to add that his scouting skills will come in handy.

“Being a Scout teaches you a lot about independence,” he said. “There is a lot of camping, but we don’t just live in the woods. They teach us to live on our own.

“You hear about people struggling with leaving their houses for the first time. I feel like I already did that when I worked at camp. Part of the reason why I’d like to go into medicine is I’ve done a lot of first-aid training and CPR

certification through the Boy Scouts.

I’ve learned a lot of important life skills there.”

Overall, Scott said it’s an honor to be an Eagle Scout.

“It’s something that not a lot of people get to complete in their lives,” he said.

“It’s a really big deal.”

Kilbey is equally as pleased.

“His achievement of the Eagle rank in scouting is the realization of a very longterm, 17-year goal,” she said. “His father and I couldn’t be more proud. And we are appreciative of all the great life lessons he’s learned all through Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts and the great program and youth leaders who have had a hand in that.”

D’Vine to help 700 Hamiliton High School students

D’Vine Wine Bar and Bistro, in partnership with Spark of Hope Foundation, will host a wine social benefiting the Hamilton Homeless Fund from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, at its Chandler location 3990 S. Alma School Rd.

The wine social will feature more than 30 wines, live music, a silent auction and raffle. In addition, the restaurant will offer a full menu and happy hour cocktail prices all day long.

“We are a part of our community, and it’s important to help each other during the holiday season, and continue that commitment all year long.” said D’Vine owner Robert Coulson.

“Our mission is to ensure no Hamilton student goes hungry,” added Rajani Rastogi, LMSW, the school’s only social worker. “This basic need must be met, so they can focus on their education. For tickets and more information visit: hamiltonhomeless.eventbrite.com.

The Hamilton Homeless Fund was

Yarbrough who handily won another Senate term over Democrat Dr. Steve Weichert, a physician, had been the senate majority leader and now replaces Andy Biggs, who was elected the new congressman in the seat previously held by Matt Salmon.

Meanwhile, that part of Chandler in Legislative District 18 will now have Democrats holding two of its three seats after Ahwatukee resident Sean Bowie defeated Tempe Republican Frank Schmuck in the Senate race and Tempe Democrat Mitzi Epstein led all four candidates for the two House seats.

Besides west Chandler, LD 18 covers Ahwatukee and parts of Tempe and Mesa.

In LD 18, unofficial results show that Democrat Sean Bowie of Ahwatukee beat Tempe Republican Frank Schmuck 51.3% to 48.6%, while Tempe Democrat Mitzi Epstein ousted 12-year legislator Bob Robson, a Chandler Republican.

Epstein was the top vote-getter among the four contenders for the two LD 18 House seats, gathering 30.5% of the vote, followed by incumbent Ahwatukee Republican Jill Norgaard at 29.4%, according to unofficial results.

Schmuck, a commercial airline pilot, in the primary had defeated incumbent Republican Sen. Jeff Dial and had campaigned hard on his proposal to replace the state income tax with a consumption tax that he said would bring in millions in revenue from tourists.

Bowie, a senior analyst in the Arizona State University provost’s office, singled out education funding as his primary issue, vowing to try to return K-12 and university spending to levels before the Republican-controlled Legislature began making deep cuts.

created to ensure students are provided with basic needs such as financial aid, food assistance, counseling and referrals to a variety of social services agencies.

One in four students at Hamilton is eligible for meal cost assistance and it is estimated that more than 700 students may go hungry some evenings and on weekends. The Hamilton Homeless Fund is dedicated to helping students and their families through financial hardship to ensure students can focus on learning.

For more information, call 480-883-5182.

Spark of Hope is an Arizona-based nonprofit organization that provides assistance for children and their families who are not supported by traditional charitable programs. Spark of Hope was founded by a group of creative individuals committed to making a difference in the lives of children by providing essential solutions and services. For more information, visit sparkofhope.org.

Jaeger named community assistance program coordinator

Scott Jaeger has been appointed the Sun Lakes Fire Department’s first community assistance program coordinator, a volunteer position responsible for acting as a liaison between the CAP officers and members of Deputy Chief Rob Helie’s office.

“This appointment was treated just like a promotional opportunity with our

own firefighters and officers,” said Chief Troy Maloney. “We are very lucky to get someone with Scott’s experience to apply for this.”

Jaeger is a retired battalion chief from both the Tucson and Prescott fire departments. He also volunteers with the Chandler and Phoenix fire departments’ crisis response units.

Epstein had waged an aggressive campaign, even making whistle stops at every public school in the district Yarbrough has served in the Legislature since 2003.

He was re-elected three times from former District 21 and elected to the Senate in 2010 and re-elected in 2012 and 2014.

“I am honored and blessed to be chosen unanimously by our caucus to serve as Senate President,” he said. “We all realize

there are big challenges ahead for our state, and we will work hard with the Minority Caucus, the House of Representatives and the governor to do what’s best for this great state.”

A lawyer who has specialized in family law, he has been the executive director of the Arizona Christian School Tuition Organization since 1998.

He was a co-founder and served on the school board for Valley Christian High School from 1981-2005.

Yarbrough previously served on the House Education, Appropriations and Judiciary committees and chaired the Ethics Committee. He served eight years as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee and two years as vice-chairman of the Rules Committee.

Mesnard said, “It’s an honor and privilege, of course, to be selected by your peers for this critical role.

“Servant leadership is foundational to the birth of our nation, and will be key to sustaining and renewing it,” he added. “The task ahead for our state isn’t easy, and will require great sacrifice, creativity, and enthusiasm. The incoming members of the House are not only up to the task, they intend to set a new standard for open, honest, and civil engagement on behalf of all citizens of Arizona.”

A teacher for over 10 years at Mesa Community College, Mesnard has been an Arizona resident for over 25 years and was first elected in 2010.

He was also the House Speaker Pro Tempore from 2013-2014.

Prior to running for office, Mesnard spent eight years working at the Arizona Senate where he served as a policy advisor on issues ranging from education, transportation and retirement, to family services and government administration.

He is a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in music composition. He also completed two master’s degrees, one in business and the other in public administration.

He spent many years as a music team leader, and as a youth counselor and mentor at his local church. Mesnard and his wife, Holly, a registered nurse at Chandler Regional Hospital, reside in Chandler. LEADERSHIP

the future on matters important to the City and our residents.”

community and there were land-use, zoning, entitlement and utility issues.”

Her next move was to greater Phoenix and a position working for a variety of municipalities at the law firm of Martinez & Curtis.

“We represented many cities and towns across the Valley and I really developed a passion for municipal law.”

Her most recent stop was at the City of Mesa as an assistant city attorney, a position in which she served for about one year.

Now with the new role in Chandler, Schwab is able to put her expertise and talents to work in the city she calls home.

“My husband and two daughters enjoy living in Chandler, and in this new role I can help make the community grow even better,” she said.

“Kelly will be a tremendous asset to the City Council and to our community,” said Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. “She brings a wealth of experience and a true passion for Chandler and for the position of city attorney. I look forward to working with her well into

In the opening days, Schwab said she is excited to dig into the issues of the City.

“I am learning what challenges are priorities of the City Council,” she said.

“They are the policy makers, and I know one of their agenda items is a beautiful downtown, which I will work to help continue developing.”

Schwab said she will also focus on business growth.

“I believe the council wants to craft ordinances and regulations that do not make it harder for companies to expand, and I will assist in that capacity.”

In addition to her role with the City, Schwab chairs the Public Law Section for the State Bar of Arizona and is admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

“I am very involved with the State Bar,” she said, adding that with her record and resume, residents can feel confident.

“I love municipal law and am committed to helping the City of Chandler,” she said.

ICAN’s dreamBIG features

celebrity magician

World-renown magician Murray SawChuck will appear during ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth’s dreamBIG fundraising gala at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass.

The gala is an extension of what is done every day at ICAN—making dreams come true for Chandler’s disadvantaged youth. The goal of dreamBIG is to raise critical dollars so that ICAN continues and expands programs so important to our community.

Take a fall “down the rabbit hole” and explore a twisted wonderland of delights. Guests will learn about ICAN youth’s dreams and how their unique programs are working to help these kids achieve, beating the odds they are faced with every day.

dreamBIG will feature a cocktail reception with a raffle, five-star dinner with live auction and open bar for the evening. SawChuck, who is headlining at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, is the highlight of the evening. He made his mark after his successful run as a semi-finalist on NBC-TV’s “America’s Got Talent.” He has been seen on History Channel’s “Pawn Stars,” “Masters of Illusions,” “Wizard Wars” and VH1’s “Celebracadabra.”

Tickets are $250 for individuals, or $450 or couples. They can be purchased at icanaz. org/dreambig or by contacting Courtney Taylor at 480-874-7575. The gala is presented by Big Two Toyota of Chandler.

The Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass is located at 5594 W. Wild Horse Pass Rd., Chandler.

ICAN is a free, family-centered youth service in the East Valley. It provides a full

complement of programs proven effective in equipping youth to achieve personal and academic success by tackling substance abuse, gang involvement and juvenile delinquency. Specifically, 8 out of 10 young people in the areas they serve are living in extreme poverty. Four of those children will go to bed hungry at night and eight will be using drugs or alcohol to cope with the harsh realities they face. Joining gangs becomes a more viable choice than graduation in the community ICAN serves. ICAN exists to combat these issues and build a strong future for our community.

ICAN is accredited by the National Council on Accreditation and was recently named “Outstanding After School Program” by the Arizona Center for After School Excellence.

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Police department adds second assistant chief to executive staff

Police Chief Sean Duggan promoted Cmdr. Dale Walters to assistant chief on Oct. 21 after an extensive interview process. A 24-year veteran of the department, Walters is the second assistant chief, alongside Jason Zdilla.

Walters began his career in 1990 as a detention officer with the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office. After successfully testing to become a deputy, Walters was assigned to the Page Substation where he worked patrol and as a boat patrol officer on Lake Powell.

He began his career with the Chandler Police Department in 1995 as a patrol officer. He was later selected as a field training officer and subsequently a narcotics detective. For two years, he worked undercover assignments with Chandler detectives and a state taskforce. In 1999, Walters was transferred to the Professional Standards Unit where served as the CPD’s internal affairs investigator.

In 2000, Walters was promoted to sergeant and was assigned to the Field Operations Division as a patrol supervisor. A year later, he was reassigned to the Criminal Investigations Bureau as the Narcotics Unit sergeant. For the next six and a half years, Walters and his team worked major conspiracy cases across the country. He and his team seized thousands of pounds of illicit drugs, and millions of dollars in drug proceeds.

Walters was promoted to lieutenant in 2007 and returned to the Field Operations Division as a patrol shift commander. In addition, he helped open the Chandler Heights Precinct and was the lieutenant over the K9 Unit. In 2008, Walters moved into the Community Resources Section and oversaw training, the firearms range, crime prevention, DARE, volunteer programs and the school resource officers. During this time, he was selected as the support

Council getting 2 new members

BY PAUL MARYNIAK

The Chandler City Council will have two new faces next January now that the Nov. 8 election resolve who will sit in the seventh seat.

And while the Chandler Unified School District governing board won’t need to be reconstituted, residents who live in the Kyrene School District will see two new people on their governing board.

In the at-large council race, smallbusiness consultant Mark Stewart easily beat finance executive Matt Eberle 54% to 46%.

The primary election saw the resolution of two other at-large races with the reelection of Councilwoman Nora Ellen and a victory by newcomer Sam Huang.

Meanwhile, in the school board races, only the three incumbents for Chandler Unified were running. They are Barbara Mozdzen, David Evans and Karen Bredeson-McGee.

John King, the only incumbent among four candidates for the Kyrene governing board, won another term.

He’ll be joined by top vote-getter Michelle Fahy and Michael Myrick. The fourth Kyrene candidate, Eshe Pickett of Chandler, trailed in last place.

commander for the Special Assignment Unit (SAU).

In 2010, Walters promoted to commander and was assigned to the Main Station Precinct. His assignments included patrol budget, six patrol teams, bike team, special events, patrol administrative personnel, quartermaster, fleet, detention operations and SAU commander. Walters returned to the Criminal Investigations Bureau in 2013 as commander.

Throughout his career, Walters has been actively involved in training law enforcement and community members in a variety of subjects including basic investigation techniques, surveillance, firearms, supervision, leadership, ethics, narcotics recognition and active shooter response. He has worked with departmental members and police applicants for more than eight years as a mentor and continually dedicates his time to various community events, programs and organizations.

Biggs, Yarbrough guest speakers at upcoming Republican Club meeting

The Sun Lakes Republican Club will feature guest speakers Congressman-elect Andy Biggs and State Senate President Steve Yarbrough at its monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 13, in the Arizona Room of the Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 S. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes. The public is invited.

Endorsed by retiring Congressional District 5 Rep. Matt Salmon, Biggs will share his vision for “The Road Ahead” and his State of the State election analysis. Yarbrough will share his election analysis and top legislative priorities for the new session that begins in January.

Biggs is an Arizona native and retired attorney. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Asian studies, a master’s in political science from ASU, and a J.D. from University of Arizona. He served in the state House of Representatives before being elected to the state senate in November 2010. He has lived in Gilbert with his family for the past 30 years and is married to Cindy, with whom he has six children and four grandchildren.

Yarbrough has lived in Arizona since

1963. He earned a bachelor of science degree in business administration from ASU, a J.D. from the ASU College of Law, and has practiced law in Tempe and Chandler since 1975. Since 1998 he has been the executive director of the Arizona Christian School Tuition Organization, a nonprofit that has provided scholarships to thousands of Arizona students to attend the school of their parents’ choice. Yarbrough has been married to Linda since 1968. They have three adult sons, all married, seven grandsons, and one granddaughter.

Elected to the House in 2002, Yarbrough was elected to the state Senate in 2010. Yarbrough was House speaker pro tempore for the 49th Legislature during 2009-2010. He leads a bipartisan group of legislators and citizen group leaders known as the Arizona Values Action Team which supports public policy that is pro-life, pro-school choice and pro-religious liberty. For more information about the meeting, contact Chairman Mike Tennant at 480-802-0178.

the annual budget survey

The City of Chandler is starting its budget process and encourages residents to provide their thoughts about the community and its future. Chandler residents may complete the online survey at chandleraz.gov/budget. The survey will be available through the end of December.

the City’s financial plan.

Paper copies may be picked up at various City facilities, including libraries, community centers and the City Hall lobby. Both versions of the survey also are available in Spanish. Completed paper surveys should be returned to City facilities or mailed to the City of Chandler, Budget Division - Citizen Surveys, Mail Stop 609, P.O. Box 4008, Chandler, AZ 85244-4008. For more information, call 480-782-2252. Share your feedback by taking

Flu shots available at grocery store locations statewide

Survey results are shared with the mayor, city councilmembers, city manager and staff to assist in the formulation of

Maricopa County residents asked to take survey

Maricopa County officials are asking residents to participate in a citizens survey that includes questions about quality of life in the community, local policies, demographics, ratings of local government services and resident use of services. All Maricopa County residents age 18 or older are eligible to participate.

A sample of approximately 2,000 Maricopa county residents will also receive an invitation in the mail to take this survey. Residents should only take the survey once, whether on paper or online. The survey is available in English and Spanish at www.yourvoicemc.com. Info: 602-506-8932.

Customers can get their annual flu shots for $40 at more than 100 Bashas’, Food City and AJ’s Fine Foods until Friday, Dec. 30. An appointment isn’t needed. Flu season typically peaks between December and March. According to Bashas’, as of March there were 9,500 confirmed cases of the flu in Arizona, the highest in the country, and that number is expected to rise. The Centers for Disease Control says the nasal spray form of the vaccine are ineffective, so injections are advised for everyone.

The list of flu clinics and dates can be found at bashas.com.

Bashas’ Family of Stores—the familyowned grocer that operates Food City, AJ’s Fine Foods, Eddie’s Country Store, and both Bashas’ and Bashas’ Diné supermarkets—is an Arizona-based company founded by brothers Ike and Eddie Basha Sr. Bashas’ created its HealthStyles program, a nine-month series of in-store clinics, to help customers and their families live a more positive and nourishing lifestyle.

Arizona Avenue speed limit changed in downtown Chandler

The speed limit on Arizona Avenue has been reduced from 35 mph to 30 mph between Chandler Boulevard and Frye Road in downtown Chandler.

Traffic studies indicated that Arizona Avenue has seen a reduction in speeds between Chandler Boulevard and Frye Road since this section of roadway was reconstructed in 2010 due to the road design, on-street parking and dense

landscaping.

The 30-mph speed limit represents the speeds for most traffic on this half-mile section of roadway. New speed limit signs are in place and flags above the signs were installed to alert drivers to the change.

The section of Arizona Avenue north of Chandler Boulevard and south of Frye Road continues to have a 35-mph speed limit.

SRP honors energy champions, including City of Chandler

The Salt River Project named the City of Chandler a “Champion of Energy Efficiency” at its annual awards program, which honors organizations for going “above and beyond” to create a culture of conservation and stewardship.

“Sustainability is part of the City’s fabric,” said Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. “In addition to the cost benefits that are passed on to our residents through SRP’s rebate programs, preserving natural resources is a win for the entire community.”

Chandler is one of the first 10 communities to be certified by STAR, Sustainability Tools for Assessing & Rating Communities. Info: www.chandleraz.gov/green. Other recipients were:

• The Risen Savior Lutheran Church was awarded in the program’s charitable and nonprofit category. Church leaders worked closely with their SRP account representative to learn about the different options for energy savings, which resulted in its tinting windows, installing smart thermostats and new lighting and replacing old air conditioning units. It is estimated that the church will save more than 178,000 kilowatt-hours annually and plans to use the extra money toward additional ministries that directly benefit the congregation and the surrounding community.

• San-Mar Enterprises, which owns Arizona Hair Co., was recognized in the program’s mid-sized business category for implementing sustainability features in its salons and its corporate office, including

ceiling fans, LED lighting and motion sensors, insulation and solar reflective window treatments and shade trees. Employees also turn up thermostats during off hours and unplug hair tools at the end of the day. There are several Arizona Hair Co. facilities in Chandler.

• Dignity Health, the fifth-largest health system in the nation with more than 40 hospitals across three states, was recognized for sustained excellence for installing a Siemens water temperature control system and variable frequency devices, along with automated light sensors, to create a more sustainable energy- and cost-efficient campus. The automated controls are also monitored by daily rounds, which further help control and adjust temperatures. The improvements have led to lower energy use and utility costs. Chandler Regional Medical Center yielded a yearly savings of more than 1 million kilowatt-hours.

• Maracay Homes, an Arizona real estate new home construction company for more than 25 years, was recognized in the homebuilder category. Their Energy Star-certified homes feature the latest generation of high-efficiency technologies and sustainable building materials and practices. In addition to promoting energy efficiency in its 22 active communities, including Sendera Place on Ocotillo and Gilbert roads in Chandler, Maracay also encourages conservation at its corporate office through motion sensors and programmable thermostats.

Hear a WWII survivor tell about his 17 missions over Nazi Germany

A Sun Lakes resident who served as a top turret gunner on a B-24 bomber during World War II will be featured speaker at the Sun Lakes Aero Club, 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 21, in the Mirror Room of the Sun Lakes Country Club, 25425 S. Sun Lakes Blvd., Chandler.

The program begins at 6:30 p.m. with coffee and the public is welcome.

Sid Singer survived 17 missions over Nazi Germany during 1944, but said his first mission was his worst. Flying out of a base at Foggia, Italy, the target was a key target at Black Hammer, Germany.

“This target was protected by the highest concentration of anti-aircraft fire of any target in Germany,” Singer said. “This was an eight-hour mission. I wasn’t

nervous until we got close to the target, and the sky was full of flak. I could hear it banging against the aircraft, but fortunately we delivered our bomb load and our aircraft returned safely to our base.” Singer said his planes were never shot down, and he never had to bail out.

During his time in Italy, Singer painted “nose art” on several bombers. In 1997, he received a letter from a collector of aircraft pictures, who complimented his work. Today, he makes portraits in charcoal and pastels, many of which adorn the walls of his home.

SLAC meets the third Monday of each month from November through April. Info: call Cannon Hill at 509-530-785, or visit sunlakesaeroclub.org.

Sun Lakes Rotary Club meetings

The Sun Lakes Rotary Club meets for breakfast at 6:30 a.m. Tuesdays in the Oakwood Country Club Ballroom. The meetings start at 7 a.m. and end at 8 a.m. Breakfast is $12.

For reservations, contact Rotarian

Fred DePrez at 480-892-7499. Sun Lakes residents who want to know more about the club should call Charles Loew at 602-721-3680. SunBird residents can contact Walt Mills at 480-883-8007.

Rotarians of month honored in Sun Lakes

The Sun Lakes Rotary Club has named Wayne Johnson, a charter member of the club and a past president, Rotarian of the Month for October. He has been a Rotarian since 1956.

He was cited for working behind the scenes more than 30 years to make certain everything works smoothly during meetings, including transforming the Oakwood ballroom into a Rotary Club and then restoring it to its original configuration.

Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Illinois and served throughout his working years as an office manager, traffic manager and purchasing agent for companies in Illinois. During the Korean War, he was in the U.S. Air Force’s Strategic Air Command. He and his wife, Anne, live in Cottonwood. They have four children and five grandchildren.

Longtime, key Sun Lakes Rotary Club member, Leland D. Widener, was chosen Rotarian of the Month for November.

Widener has held almost every service position in the club since joining in 1990, including secretary and president. He is a Paul Harris Fellow/Benefactor, served as Rotary District 5510 assistant governor, and in 2001 was named Rotarian of the Year for the club.

“If a job needs doing, and Lee is able, he does it,” said club president Bill McCoach. Throughout his professional career, Widener was in insurance sales, retiring from State Farm in 1990. He and his wife, Nancy, have seven children, 12 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. The couple lives in Oakwood.

The Rotary Club meets for breakfast every Tuesday morning at 6:30 a.m. in the Oakwood Country Club Ballroom, 24218 S. Oakwood Blvd., Sun Lakes. Meetings are 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. Cost of breakfast is $12. To make reservations for any meeting, contact Don Prestin at 480-802-0439. Info: Sun Lakes residents can call Charles Loew at 602-7213680. SunBird residents can call Walt Mills at 480-883-8007.

Speakers scheduled for December’s Rotary meetings

BY NORM NOBLE

The Rotary Club of Sun Lakes, which meets for breakfast at 6:30 a.m. Tuesdays in the Oakwood Country Club Ballroom, has scheduled its guest speakers for December.

Kicking off the month is Daniel Robertson on Tuesday, Dec. 6. Discussing “Understanding the Power of Hypnosis,” Robertson began his business career investing in and developing mountain recreational real estate. That evolved into building commercial office and industrial buildings in the Bay Area.

In 1980, he moved to Scottsdale and continued with real estate investments and development. He became one of the early franchisees of Chuck E. Cheese, Pizza Time Theater.

Thirteen years later, Robertson was

diagnosed with colon cancer. Postsurgery, he used hypnosis to lessen the side effects of the radiation and chemotherapy. It worked, and having no side effects from the cancer treatments, he made a career change to become a clinical hypnotherapist.

Robertson has been practicing clinical hypnosis since 1993, and has discovered that most people have no understanding of hypnosis. He enjoys teaching the concepts of the natural phenomenon of hypnotic trance.

A “mystery guest” will breathe a sigh of relief following an exhausting month on Tuesday, Dec. 27. He will share insights into his life and how pressures of meeting worldwide obligations brought to him by millions of children.

Rotary provides dictionaries for every third-grade student

BY NORM NOBLE

The Sun Lakes Rotary Club has done extraordinary things since its foundation in 1986. There are long lists of charities that have benefited from the Club’s support, including Neighbors Who Care, Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley, the Sheriff’s Posse and Gift of Life-Arizona.

The largest beneficiary is the Chandler Unified School District. Club members spend hundreds of hours each year mentoring children from third grade through high school.

Among its projects is giving dictionaries to every third-grade student in the Chandler United School District. Each October, members deliver dictionaries to children in the district’s 34 elementary schools. It is the club’s mission to assist all students in becoming good writers, active readers, creative thinkers and resourceful learners by providing. The dictionaries are gifts to each student to use at school and at home for years to come. Educators see third grade as the dividing line between learning to read and reading to learn.

Many teachers feel dictionaries are a key to better reading, speech and writing. These

skills improve student performance in other subjects as well. The young people meet successful adults in their community who care enough about them to purchase these dictionaries and come to their schools to present them personally. To date, the Sun Lakes Rotary Club has given dictionaries to over 44,000 third graders.

The Sun Lakes Rotary Club’s endeavors don’t stop there. For the past several years, the club has taught a program called “Choices” to every ninth grader in the Chandler United School District. To date, the club has taught this program to more than 50,000 ninth graders.

But not to be forgotten are the little children from around the world who are threatened by polio. These children, too, receive the attention of Sun Lakes Rotary. While polio is not an issue in the United States, in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nigeria it remains a serious threat. It is a major focus of Rotary International to eradicate this dreaded disease by immunizing more than 2 billion children worldwide. The Sun Lakes Rotary Club has joined in this effort with gifts of more than $100,000 since the Club’s inception in 1986.

Help children like PJ by donating blood

Katrina Eaton gave birth to a healthy baby girl, but the situation rapidly changed. Baby PJ got a cold that became pneumonia and respiratory failure. She was taken to the closest emergency room and then transported by medical helicopter to a Valley children’s hospital.

Eaton is a United Blood Services donor recruitment representative, whose job is to inspire people to give blood every day. She has recruited more than 100,000 donors over the past 15 years, but now she knows first-hand how every donor makes the difference of a lifetime for a patient.

“Babies like PJ go through so much before they can even receive a transfusion. It is so important to take one hour to give blood,” Eaton said. “Our family is forever grateful for the three donors who gave the blood our daughter has required.”

PJ has a long road to recovery. She will require more medical tests, surgeries and most likely depend upon additional blood transfusions. But her parents, Katrina and Troy, hope she will finally

ICAN promotes Patris-Browne to chief philanthropy officer

ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth has promoted Cassie Patris-Browne to chief philanthropy officer. She was director of philanthropy with ICAN for four years. She filled the role previously held by Shelby Pedersen, who was promoted to CEO of the organization in June.

Patris-Browne has been involved in the nonprofit sector for over 19 years, with experience in youth development organizations. She was the director of the Virginia G. Piper Branch at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale for several years and led the branch in receiving the highest distinction - Best Overall Club by Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

She attended ASU and earned a degree in English literature and educational psychology in 2005. She graduated from the American Express Leadership Academy at ASU in 2013 and was on the marketing committee for the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership in 2015. She is on the board for the Association of Fundraising Professionals and chairs its education committee, and is a member of Suns 88.

ICAN is a free, family-centered youth service in the East Valley that provides programs to equip disadvantaged youth skills to achieve personal and academic success by tackling risky behaviors. Info: 480-821-4207 or icanaz.org.

be strong enough to come home thanks to modern medical technology, skilled doctors and the three blood donors who helped her survive lifethreatening circumstances.

Type O-negative needed

Patient needs for all blood types in Arizona have increased with the arrival of winter visitors. UBS has an immediate need for all blood types, especially O-negative, the universal blood that can be substituted for all other types in times of shortages.

UBS encourages blood donors to visit the Chandler Donor Center, 1989 W. Elliot Rd., 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. All blood types are needed, but Type O-negative is in greatest demand.

UBS has been providing blood since 1943 and serves patients in more than 60 Arizona hospitals. To make an appointment, call 877-UBS-HERO or visit bloodhero.com.

Chandler Cemetery and Chandler Exchange Club partner to present Wreaths Across America

The Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery and the Chandler Exchange Club are hosting a Wreaths Across America memorial for military veterans buried at the cemetery, Saturday, Dec. 17, at 10940 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler.

Volunteers are invited to participate in the wreath-laying ceremony at 8 a.m., which will be followed by a formal memorial service at 11 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial section of the cemetery. There will be food and refreshments following the memorial.

Wreath sponsors are needed

Interested residents, organizations and businesses can participate by sponsoring a single wreath for $15, 10 wreaths for $150 or 100 wreaths $1,500.

Anyone who wants to volunteer or be a sponsor should contact Whitaker at 480-241-9448 or driwash2@prodigy.net.

Wreaths Across America got its start

in 1992 when the Worcester Wreath Co. found themselves with a surplus of wreaths nearing the end of the holiday season. Remembering a boyhood trip to Arlington National Cemetery, Worcester’s owner arranged for the wreaths to be placed at Arlington. It has since become a national project. In 2014, volunteers laid over 700,000 memorial wreaths at 1,000 locations in the United States and beyond. This was accomplished with help from thousands of fundraising groups and corporate contribution.

The Exchange Club, chartered in 2013, is part of a national network of clubs across the country. The name is derived from “exchanging” ideas to better serve the local community. Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery has been serving Chandler and the East Valley area since 1963.

Support needed for turkey and food drive collection

The Thanksgiving Day holiday is right around the corner and local food banks are in desperate need of many holiday items for their food box distributions. Chandler residents are encouraged to support faith-based and nonprofit group For Our City and donate what you can. There are several ways you can help:

• Purchase a “paper” turkey for $5 or $10. Turkeys will be available for cash purchase at the three food banks and the City’s Neighborhood Resources Office, 235 S. Arizona Ave. Donated paper turkeys will be on display at Chandler City Hall. Credit cards donations also will be accepted online at: forourcitychandler.org/holidaydrives.html.

• Donate a frozen turkey to one of the

food banks; through December.

• Donate any of the following items to help complete food boxes for Chandler families in need: canned vegetables; canned fruit; boxed side dishes (pasta or rice based); instant mash potatoes; two pound bags of rice or beans; canned or ramen-type soups; canned cranberry sauce; boxed stuffing mix; cereals; boxed dry desserts (such as pudding or cake mix); toiletries, such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc.; paper goods, including tissues, toilet paper and paper towels.

To view a list of organizations serving warm prepared meals over the holidays, visit forourcitychandler.org/holidaydrives.html.

Reward offered for help identifying two car burglary suspects

The Chandler Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying two men who burglarized nine vehicles between 5:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6, at various locations on Chandler Boulevard, between Price and Rural roads. The suspects used a dark gray SUV, possibly a Chevrolet Traverse, with a stolen license plate.

Immediately following one of the burglaries, the suspects began using a victim’s credit card at a local business. Along with credit cards, stolen items include money, clothing, electronics and a firearm.

The first suspect is a Hispanic male, approximately 20 to 30 years old, about 5-feet, 8-inches tall with a build. He has

black hair, a light beard and his left arm is sleeved in tattoos. He was last seen wearing a white T-shirt, blue pants, white tennis shoes and a black baseball cap with a red bill.

The second suspect is a white male, approximately 20 to 30 years old, about 6 feet tall with a thin build. He has short blond hair, is clean shaven and appears to have sunburned skin. He was last seen wearing a white baseball jersey-style shirt, dark shorts and black tennis shoes.

Anyone able to identify either suspect should call 480-782-4130 or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (948-6377). Silent Witness is offering a reward up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest or indictment of these suspects.

County supervisors help determine statewide county priorities

Maricopa County Supervisors Clint Hickman, Andy Kunasek and Steve Gallardo joined county officials from across the state at the 12th annual Legislative Summit of the County Supervisors Association in Flagstaff, where they unanimously agreed that the state must stop diverting county tax dollars to fund state agency obligations.

County supervisors representing all 15 Arizona counties established CSA’s policy agenda for the 2017 state legislative session. State law contains several cost shifts and policies that create financial burdens on local county taxpayers, according to CSA.

“We certainly understand that during the Great Recession the state made tough decisions to deal with the $3 billion budget deficit,” said Hickman, a past CSA president and chairman of the Board of Supervisors. “However, state revenues are increasing and the rainy-day fund is roughly half a billion dollars. Our counties cannot continue to supplement state programs and agencies that are not in our purview.”

More than $277 million diverted

According to CSA, since 2008 more than $277 million has been diverted from Maricopa County to fund state government operations.

“While we absolutely appreciate the work of the legislature and governor this past session to provide some financial relief through one-time appropriations, counties need to see this relief continue,” Hickman added. “If state lawmakers do not act on CSA’s request, Maricopa County stands to lose $11.9 million in revenue that could be used to improve road conditions and provide additional resources for the county.”

According to CSA, county supervisors will be asking the governor and state legislature to eliminate the mandated county payments that support the state-operated and managed Arizona Department of Juvenile Corrections. Also, they will be asking that highway user revenue funds be fully restored. Also, counties are seeking to reestablish their in-lieu lottery appropriation and allow for the use of existing tax dollars to meet county fiscal obligations.

CSA is a nonpartisan forum for Arizona’s 61 county supervisors to address issues facing local constituents, providing a mechanism to share information and to advance a proactive state and federal policy agenda.

State continues widespread search for skimmers

Since the Labor Day weekend, 30 skimmers have been found on gas pumps across the state, according to the Arizona Department of Agriculture. Skimmers are devices that criminals install to steal debit and credit card information to make fraudulent cards.

“We are bringing together more partners and state agencies to turn around this trend of skimmers,” said Mark W. Killian, the department’s director. “Inspectors from our Weights and Measures Division stepped up visits in the last few months. We’ve recorded 78 skimmers found this year compared to 11 in all of 2015.”

The Arizona Department of Public Safety, police departments from

across the state, the Arizona Attorney General’s office and federal partners have discussed investigative processes and how to work with other states and financial institutions to track down the interstate criminals.

“ We are going to maintain our intensive inspection of gas pumps in the state,” said Michelle Wilson, associate director of the Division of Weights and Measures Services. “Until we can find a way to prevent the installation of skimmers, we’re going to protect consumers the best way possible—removing the skimmers from the pumps.”

Info: http://searchagriculture. az.gov/docs/skimmers.pdf.

Royal Dragonfly Book Award winners announced

Winners of the 2016 Royal Dragonfly Book Awards have been announced and “Behind the Mask” by Dana Ridenour has earned this year’s $300 grand prize, as well as first-place designations in the Fiction Novel and First Time Author categories.

“Behind the Mask” is the story of special agent Lexie Montgomery, who is just beginning to understand the FBI’s undercover division motto: “You build relationships to betray relationships.”

Lexie’s first assignment is infiltrating a radical cell of the Animal Liberation Front. Underground and operating in splinter groups throughout Los Angeles, the only way in is through Savannah Riley, a new recruit. Savannah left the safety of her small southern town for the bright lights of the city. Pulled into the animal rights

movement by her college roommate and a gorgeous anarchist, she sinks deeper and deeper into the dark, paranoid world of ALF extremists. As the actions of her cell escalate beyond simple demonstrations and graffiti, Savannah turns to Lexie to keep her grounded. But as the two women grow closer and the FBI’s case builds, Lexie is forced to decide what betrayal means.

“We had a very tight competition this year and our judges definitely had their work cut out for them,” said Linda F. Radke, president of the Dragonfly Book Awards program. “ want to extend my sincerest congratulations to all of our winners.” For a complete list of winners, visit DragonflyBookAwards.com and click on “winners.” The next Royal Dragonfly Book Awards contest is underway. The final deadline for submissions is Oct. 1, 2017.

Heart valve patients may benefit from new procedure in Chandler

Dignity Health Chandler Regional Medical Center is offering one of the latest technologies in cardiac care. Called transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), this minimally invasive surgical procedure repairs heart valves without the invasive removal of old, damaged valves.

“This procedure is a real game changer for older patients for whom standard valve replacement is too risky,” said Jeff McBee, vice president of operations at Chandler Regional.

“Standard valve replacement requires open heart surgery. The TAVR procedure is much less invasive and can drastically lessen recovery time and only requires an average of three to five days in the hospital.”

The surgery is done in a catheterization laboratory and involves implanting a replacement valve inside of the failing valve site, which eliminates the need to remove old tissue. Once expanded, the tissue in

the TAVR device takes over the job of regulating blood flow.

This innovative technology is relatively new and doctors say it can be a valuable option for patients who need aortic valve repair and currently have limited choices. TAVR is FDA approved for people who have symptomatic aortic stenosis and are too high risk for an open-heart procedure. This type of heart condition causes the heart to work harder which over time can weaken the heart muscle and cause chest pain, fatigue and shortness of breath. Most individuals who benefit from the TAVR procedure are older than 70 and have other medical conditions.

“Over the past several years, Chandler Regional has seen a significant growth in our cardiology department,” McBee said. “We are committed to bringing the very best treatments to our patients and with the introduction of TAVR we are in a position to help even more residents in our community.”

Red Cross needs blood donations to help ensure a sufficient supply throughout the holidays

This November, the American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give the gift of blood to help ensure a sufficient supply throughout the holiday season.

A decline in donations occurs from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day when donors are busy with family gatherings and travel. However, patients don’t get a holiday break from needing lifesaving transfusions. In fact, every 2 seconds, someone in the United States needs blood.

The Red Cross encourages donors to start a new holiday tradition and bring family and friends together to donate blood or platelets. Donors of all blood types are needed to give this November to help ensure a sufficient supply for

hospital patients. As a thank you for donating around the Thanksgiving holiday, all those who come to donate Nov. 24 to Nov. 28 will be invited to download a set of recipes from celebrity chefs. To make an appointment to give blood, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood. org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800733-2767). Donors are encouraged to make appointments and complete the RapidPass online health history questionnaire at redcrossblood.org/ rapidpass to save time when donating. In Chandler, the next blood donation opportunity is from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov 22, at the Chandler Gilbert Family YMCA, 1655 W Frye Rd.

a wide assortment of

too!

Among those celebrating the groundbreaking were Michael Lusick, vice president of upscale operations at Choice Hotels; Chris Anderson, managing director and local city leader for Hines; Chandler Vice Mayor Jack Sellers; and Kevin McAteer, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Concord Hospitality Enterprises. Photo courtesy of Gudenschwager Photography

Cambria Hotel & Suites celebrates groundbreaking at Chandler Viridian

Hines, an international real estate firm, and Cambria Hotels & Suites hosted the official groundbreaking of a new location at Chandler Viridian at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15. Event speakers at the ceremony included Vice Mayor Jack Sellers, Hines managing director Chris Anderson, Choice Hotels’ vice president of upscale operations Michael Lusick, and Concord Hospitality Enterprises Company senior vice president of marketing and sales Kevin McAteer. The hotel will be located at 3133 W. Frye Rd., Chandler, near the Loop 101/ Loop 202 interchange. Slated to open next year, the hotel

will be an important element of Chandler Viridian, a 25-acre mixed-use project, which also includes The Offices at Chandler Viridian, high-end apartments Broadstone Fashion Center, sophisticated retail offerings at Chandler Viridian Primegate and a pedestrian promenade to the Chandler Fashion Center. The hotel developer is Concord Hospitality Enterprises of Raleigh, North Carolina, and the contractor is Layton Construction of Phoenix.

In November 2014, Hines razed Elevation Chandler, an unfinished structure on site and local eyesore, to develop the master plan for Chandler Viridian.

Chandler Museum and The Ostrich hosting trivia night with ‘Hipstorian’

The Chandler Museum and The Ostrich Bar are once again hosting trivia night from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6, hosted by Marshall Shore, Arizona’s “Hip Historian.”

Attendees will get into the holiday spirit as they sip on classic cocktails and learn more about Chandler’s unique tradition of a tumbleweed Christmas tree, how the community became a draw for winter visitors, and other wonderful seasonal delights from the Valley’s past.

“We are excited to finish up this year’s trivia series with a theme that looks at past holiday traditions,” said Museum Administrator Jody Crago.

“Everyone will have a great time with trivia host Marshall Shore as they learn more about the place where they live. All of the local stories and photos that are shared are from the museum’s archive.”

“These trivia nights have been a great success. Our customers love them,” said Mike Merendino, owner of The Ostrich and upstairs restaurant Crust. “This evening will be a fun way to get into the holiday mood.”

The Ostrich is in the basement of Crust, adjacent to the San Marcos Resort, at 10 N. San Marcos Pl., in downtown Chandler. In addition to cocktails created by celebrated mixologist Brandon Casey, some of the savory bites that have made Crust a foodie destination also will be on

the menu.

Reservations are required for teams of four to six to take part in the fun. For more information, go to chandlermuseum.org and for reservations call, 480-917-4903.

The Chandler Museum is an innovative environment where the community comes together to share our stories, store our cultural heritage and experience Chandler as a people and place. The museum’s vision is to be the community’s principal resource to explore its people’s history, culture and their place in a rapidly changing world—within and without the walls of a building. More at chandlermuseum.org.

Shore’s passion is uncovering the weird, the wonderful and the obscure treasures from the past: the semi-forgotten people, places, and events that have made us who we are today. Shore uses storytelling magic, found film footage, old photographs, ephemera and artifacts to bring the state’s heritage to life in entertaining and educational presentations.

The Ostrich is a neighborhood craft cocktail lounge inspired by the rich history dating back to the city’s founding days of 1912. After nearly a year of renovations and excavations, the Ostrich is making a name for itself around the Valley as a destination for the best cocktails in town. The Ostrich is open Wednesday through Saturday, 7 p.m. to midnight.

Dental Implants

Permanent solution to tooth loss

People who have lost teeth might often feel too self-conscious to smile or talk in public. Additionally, early tooth loss can change eating habits and facial appearance and lead to secondary health problems.

Although you have a number of options for the replacement of missing teeth, none have proven to be as functionally effective and durable as dental implants. In many cases, dental implants are the only logical choice for the restoration of all necessary functioning of the teeth and supporting structures; dental implants provide a simple remedy with proven results.

Dental implants are stronger and more durable than bridges and dentures. Implants offer a permanent solution to tooth loss and are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth.

They are proven to preserve the jaw bone, gums and the adjacent

They are proven to preserve the jaw bone, gums and the adjacent natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything, knowing that their teeth appear natural and that their facial contours will be preserved. We offer state-of-theart technologies and Dr. Shah is constantly implementing the latest techniques to provide you with the best care available.

Patients who come to us can smile with confidence. For a consultation, please call Dr. Shah at 480.814.9500. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Board Certified, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

D-backs Celebrity Golf Classic

The Arizona Diamondbacks hosted their sixth annual D-backs Celebrity Golf Classic, presented by Sanderson Ford, on Friday, Nov. 11, at Whirlwind Golf Club in Chandler. The tournament was created to raise funds to support initiatives that improve the lives of military heroes through the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation. It’s held the Friday of Veterans Day weekend each year. Among those who participated were pitchers Archie Bradley and Jake Barrett, CEO Derrick Hall and first baseman Paul Goldschmidt. Photos by Sarah Sachs/Arizona Diamondbacks.

9Round training gym comes to Gilbert

BY TIM J. RANDALL

As the co-owner of two Elements Massage Studios in Chandler, Ed Wagner is passionate about health and wellness.

So, adding 9Round to his stable of businesses was a natural fit.

“It’s a 30 minute, full-body workout that burns up to 500 calories, changes daily and doesn’t have class times,” said Wagner, who co-owns the Elements Massage Studios with his wife.

“We don’t have classes, so people don’t have to worry about preregistering, and then getting to the gym 15 minutes before class. 9Round was developed with efficiency in mind. Our rounds are each 3 minutes long, so we can start people every 3 minutes. People’s time is too valuable.”

In 12 countries with 428 locations, per the 9Round website, the company contends that its exercise regime has seen hundreds of millions of kicks and punches thrown over 109 million rounds, leading to 4.8 billion calories burned.

The fast-paced kickboxing gym also “is ranked No. 33 on Entrepreneur’s Fastest-Growing Franchises and has experienced 988% growth in three years,” the site indicated.

With Valley locations in Gilbert, Scottsdale, Chandler and soon in Tempe, 9Round is an up-tempo regiment combining multiple strength, conditioning and cardio elements.

“The workout changes every day, so patrons can expect a lot of variety,” Wagner said. “Trainers are part of the workout, so every workout trainers are helping to guide you through the stations and encourage and push you.”

The Wagners were intrigued by the idea after talking with a friend.

“Because of my franchise experience, a friend asked me to read the 9Round business plan,” Wagner said. “I was so

impressed that I drove to California that week to try the workout at two gyms.

“I called 9Round corporate in South Carolina on my way home from California to start the process. My friend opened her 9Round in Scottsdale in August.”

While physicality is at the core of the program, Wagner is quickly added that memberships also include heart rate technology and an online tool to measure and track progress.

“9Round is all about fitness, but not just from a working out perspective,” he said. “Members also get full access to our nutrition portal which is just as important if not more so.”

Athletic training has changed considerably since the days of pounding the pavement at 5 a.m. Now options like Orangetheory Fitness and 9Round are changing the dynamic.

“9Round is High Intensity Interval Training, or HIIT,” he said.

“There are several different gyms that do HIIT successfully, and each one has their own twist. One of the main benefits of doing our workout, is that most of the punches and kicks that you do engage your core, without having to be on the floor doing crunches and sit-ups.”

Wagner’s 9Round is located at 2487 S. Gilbert Rd., Gilbert, and patrons can schedule a free trial to see how the strength, kickboxing and abs and core stations work.

“This workout truly is for anyone,” he said. “The minimum age is 10 years old, and I have clients that young, up through several in their 60s,” Wagner said. “From a fitness level perspective, I have several people that have never worked out and several that workout every day. The majority are somewhere in the middle of that.”

To learn more about 9Round, visit 9round.com/fitness/Chandler-AZ-x8239

Chamber of Commerce

honored by City of Chandler

Chandler Chamber of Commerce

CEO Terri Kimble was recognized for her and her organization’s strong partnership with the City of Chandler.

“Terri Kimble, her staff and Chamber membership continue to keep the best interests of the Chandler business community moving forward,” said Mayor Jay Tibshraeny.

“This award is just a small token of the Council’s appreciation for all of the work being done to keep Chandler great.”

This is the first award of its kind given from the City to the Chamber and took Kimble by surprise.

“I was at the council meeting to present the Chamber’s ‘How We Stand’ booklet, and afterward Mayor Tibshraeny and Councilman Terry Roe presented the award. We are very appreciative of their consideration; this truly means so much to our board of directors, our staff and our membership.”

Rotary’s golf tourney to benefit local charities

Chandler Rotary Club is hosting its seventh annual Chandler Rotary Golf Classic Tournament on Thursday, Dec. 8, at Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass.

The price is $125 per golfer and it includes green fee, rang balls, cart, snack, awards dinner and opportunities to win raffle prizes.

The event benefits Wings for

Warriors, the Chandler High School JROTC and educational scholarships. Check in is at 10:30 a.m., with the skills contest following from 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. The golf classic shotgun begins at 12:30 p.m.

For more information, call Kevin Dempsey at 480-216-2849, email chandler.rotary.golf@gmail.com or visit chandler-rotary.org/golf/

Che Bella Villas features split-level bedroom floor plans

Che Bella Villas offers a new standard in luxury condominium living in Chandler. Designed by the award-winning Graham Development, these stunning two- and three-bedroom residences were created with a Mediterranean-inspired exterior design and colors highlighted with warm interiors evoking a relaxed ambiance associated with East Valley living.

Prices start in the $200s.

Centralized in the East Valley’s growing tech corridor and expanding entertainment area, the gated community is on Pecos Road, between Cooper and McQueen roads, 1 mile from the 202 San Tan Freeway to the south.

Each spacious villa home offers open airy split-bedroom floor plans, with formal dining spaces, direct access oversized garages, luxurious master baths and master suites, fireplace and art niche designs. These open floor plans offer easy circulation between rooms that open into private patios and balconies.

Each residence features 9-foot ceilings, fireplace with heating system, granite countertops in kitchen and baths, all tile flooring in kitchen, baths and laundry room, crown molding in living room, raised vanities in baths, separate shower and tub in most plans, spacious coat, linen

and walk-in clothes closets, plus pantries and GE Stainless Steel appliances.

Che Bella Villas’ energy efficiencies begin with 2-inch by 6-inch solid wall construction, post-tension foundations, highly rated insulations, low-e energy efficient windows and integrated airconditioning and heating systems. Each part of the energy-saving design works in tandem with the other to achieve maximum efficiency. Several factors go into building these condominium homes to optimize energy performance, thereby reducing costs and providing more comfort.

Che Bella Villas offers a luxury environment, complete with recreational and social amenities that advocates an active resort-style lifestyle. The community’s amenities encourage resident relaxation, exercise and health. Fabulous amenities include swimming pool and spa, fitness center, putting green and ramadas. Che Bella Villas is also near 18 miles of meandering paved canal paths for runners, cyclists, inline skaters or walkers.

For more information visit the Che Bella Villas website at: chebellavillas.com or call 480-540-0615. It is located at 900 S. Canal Dr., Chandler.

The PITT Fitness to host fundraising workout session

Join The PITT Fitness for a special workout for all ages from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, to raise money for the Children’s Cancer Network.

Post-workout, there will be food, local vendors, raffle drawings and activities for all ages from 10 a.m. to noon. All money raised goes directly to the Children’s Cancer Network. The PITT Fitness is located at 2150 E. Germann Rd., at the corner of Cooper and Germann roads, Chandler. For more information, call 480-855-3145.

Learn about the Chamber and network at its meetings

Throughout the year, the Chandler Chamber of Commerce offers a variety of luncheons and meetings for its members and the community.

Events are held at the Chandler Chamber of Commerce office, 25 S. Arizona Pl., Suite 201, unless otherwise noted.

To register, call 480-963-4571, visit www. chandlerchamber.com or email info@ chandlerchamber.com. No refunds are available within 72 hours of the event

Chandler Chamber Lunch Club

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 21

The Chandler Chamber Lunch Club is for anyone who would like to attend and help support member businesses. The goal of the Chandler Chamber Lunch Club

is to network and promote each business while having a great meal at one of our hometown restaurants. Sponsor: Bell Mortgage Crisp Greens

250 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler

Ask an Expert Noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 29

Topic: Securing Funding for Your Business Kristin Slice, founder of Empowered Lab Communications talks about financing your businesses through personal, borrowing, crowd funding and assistance eligibility. Find out how to obtain the help that businesspeople need to grow their business. Learn about key resources to start, grow or expand. This event is

Gold Canyon expands to Mexico

The Chandler-based candle company Gold Canyon expanded into Mexico, effective Nov. 2.

Gold Canyon enters Mexico—the seventh largest market in the world—to build upon its 20 years of success in North America. Mexico’s favorable direct sales market, growing demand for high-quality candles and a large base of entrepreneurs make it an ideal market for Gold Canyon.

“We’re excited to bring the Gold Canyon earning opportunity to Mexico,” said Thomas F. Kelly, Gold Canyon CEO.

“There’s incredible potential for women, men and younger generations to gain

CHANDLER

LOCATION ONLY

DJ Ramzy Saba of Ramma Jamma DJ will appear live on Friday, Nov. 25, 11 am-2 pm.

financial independence through homebased direct selling of ‘The World’s Finest’ candles. Our proven sales strategy combines relationship selling with recruiting new prospects and leading a team to provide a unique entrepreneurial opportunity for those looking to earn a full or part-time income.”

The company recruited seasoned direct sales leader, Lourdes Valerio, to oversee consultant and leader development in Mexico. She is building a foundation with the support of an experienced group of leaders who are eager to take full advantage of the potential available in this market. This strategic move will also provide

free to Chandler Chamber members. For nonmembers, there will be a $10 fee. Feel free to bring a lunch.

Chamber 101

7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 8

Join the Chamber for its Chamber 101 breakfast to learn more about the organization. Participants are encouraged to bring business cards and brochures to network with other members. Sponsor: Magic Touch Carpet Cleaning.

Chamber 202: Technology Tune Up

Immediately follows Chamber 101 Chamber 202 is a detailed walkthrough of the Chandler Chamber Member Information Center login area covering

profile updates, events creation and registration, hot deals, job postings, managing directory listings and mobile application management. There will also be Q&A.

Meet the Elected Officials Legislative Breakfast 7 a.m. registration; 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 6

Meet the 2017 Arizona state legislators, federal, local and school governing board officials. The Chamber will also unveil the 2017 “How We Stand” document, which lists legislative agendas and priorities for the coming year.

Hilton Phoenix Chandler 2929 W. Frye Rd., Chandler

opportunities for cross-border recruitment throughout North America.

With Gold Canyon, consultants are in business for themselves, but not by themselves—no matter where they live. Mexico will have the support of their home office team in Arizona along with a dedicated website and a catalog featuring their most popular scents.

“We are more than optimistic about our launch into Mexico and plan to expand our product offerings in the future,” Kelly added.

“We will leverage our learnings from this launch for future expansions into Central and South American countries.”

LGE breaks ground on Revelation Real Estate’s mixed-use project

LGE Design Build has started construction on Revelation Real Estate’s new mixed-used office space, slated to include a real estate school, a brokerage firm, title company, an event center and a bar and café. Occupancy is expected in May.

The 20,000-square-foot, $5 million mixed-use project will serve as Revelation’s new headquarters, which will an upgrade and expansion from Revelation’s 8,000-square-foot headquarters in Chandler.

“We wanted to consolidate our own services, but we also wanted to do something to advance the real estate industry in its entirety,” said Angela Fazio, who co-owns and serves as

Revelation’s broker with her husband, Chuck. “In working with LGE, we’ve been able to design an unbelievable indoor/outdoor space that will encourage broker productivity, showcase unbelievable architectural design and offer an abundance of resources for the entire community.”

In addition to the property’s interior space, an expansive patio equipped with its own bar adds another 5,000 to the facility. Occupants will also be able to take a break from their day-to-day while shooting pool in an onsite billiards area, or take a breather alongside calming water fixtures or in one of the building’s seating areas.

Google’s self-driving car team on the road in Chandler

Google has been working with Chandler’s Economic Development Division to sign a lease for a 39,000-square-foot facility in West Chandler, which would serve as Google’s hub for its self-driving car project testing in the Valley. The building is under construction, and renovations should be complete early next year.

Over the last six months, Google’s self-driving cars have learned what it’s like to drive in Chandler’s distinct desert conditions, including extreme heat and dust storms. Google’s experience in Chandler has played a crucial role in

helping their engineers refine their selfdriving capabilities.

“This emerging technology is helping to diversify our already outstanding reputation as the tech-hub of the southwest,” said Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. “We are thrilled that Google is making a home in Chandler.”

Google’s Chandler-based team includes operations leads and trained test drivers, who will use the new facility to maintain their self-driving vehicles and grow their testing operations in the Valley.

Info: www.google.com/selfdrivingcar.

A top 10 brokerage

“We are setting a standard of excellence in the real estate industry,” said Chuck Fazio, co-owner and Revelation broker. “It’s no wonder we are one of the top 10 single office brokerages in the country, according to Wall Street Journal. We are attracting the best agents in the industry.”

Real estate agents, their clients and vendors across multiple industries can also join the Revelation Platinum Club, a program that allows businesses to get information and branding to Revelation’s more than 500 agents and their extended networks of clients. In addition to garnering access to this growing community through a

private Facebook page, mailers and a smartphone app, Platinum Club members are privy to discounts, deals and an invitation to attend a variety of events to be hosted at the new facility at either deeply discounted rates or for free.

“Chuck, Angela and the whole Revelation team are known for being industry innovators, and we’re ready to take their vision and make it a reality,” said David Sellers, LGE Design president. “We’ve meticulously planned this project down to the last detail, and its finally time to start getting our hands dirty.” For more information, visit RevelationRealEstate.com and LGEDesignBuild.com.

New retailers arrive at Phoenix Premium Outlets

Johnson & Murphy Factory Outlet and GSN are joining the brand lineup at Phoenix Premium Outlets in Chandler.

Opening in November, is Johnston & Murphy Factory Outlet, which designs, creates and markets high-quality footwear, apparel, leather goods and luggage to men and women.

The 2,714-squarefoot store will be located next to Tommy Hilfiger and will be the brand’s first outlet in Arizona.

GNC will offer shoppers everything from vitamins and minerals to beauty items and weight loss products. GNC takes pride in the fact that they set the standard in the nutritional supplement industry by demanding truth in labeling, ingredient safety and product potency, while remaining on the cutting-edge of nutritional science.

top brands at a great value at Phoenix Premium Outlets,” said Rebecca Brunell, assistant director of marketing and business development.

“These new additions will enhance our dynamic retail mix, and we’re pleased to welcome them to the center.” Phoenix Premium Outlets, Phoenix’s premiere outlet shopping destination, features extraordinary savings of 25% to 65% off designer and name brands, including Adidas, Coach Outlet, DKNY, Elie Tahari, Michael Kors, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH.

The 1,200-square-foot retailer will be located across from Old Navy.

“We’re proud to offer our shoppers

The center is located within Wild Horse Pass off Interstate 10 at exit 162. Regular outlet hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday. For more information on Phoenix Premium Outlets, call 480-639-1766 or visit premiumoutlets.com.

OnTrac makes donation to KNIX; hiring for seasonal work

OnTrac, a Chandler-based logistics company specializing in contracting regional shipping services in the Western United States, donated to KNIX Ben & Matt’s Million Can Crusade and is preparing to hire additional staff.

The company is gearing up for the ninth annual Million Can Crusade to help St. Vincent de Paul collect nonperishable food to feed hungry families for the 2016 holiday season. Ben and Matt in The Morning of KNIX Radio are hoping to collection 1 million cans through Nov. 23.

In 2015, OnTrac provided more than 5,000 cans to the cause along with a $1,500 donation. OnTrac hopes to do the same in 2016. A donation of $1,500 was made at the Million Can Crusade kick-off event on Nov. 1, and the OnTrac Chandler corporate office is in full swing to surpass the previous year’s results.

OnTrac creates a positive competition by breaking up the corporate office into teams and honoring the team that collects the most cans. Each team’s contribution helps OnTrac to reach their overall goal of 3,500 cans. Lunch will be provided to corporate employees if everyone comes together to reach the company goal.

“2016 marks the sixth year that OnTrac has participated in the Million Can Crusade,” said Laura Peterson, vice president of marketing and public relations for OnTrac.

“As a company, we look forward

to this time of year every year. Personally, I love to see the energy and compassion that each employee brings to the office. We are all working toward the same goal of feeding hungry families for the holidays, but it’s also a great honor to receive the OnTrac Golden Can Award for being the team who donates the most cans to such a wonderful cause.”

In addition to the Million Can Crusade, OnTrac supports the communities where employees live and serve. Since 2014, OnTrac has given monetary donations of $50,780 to a variety of charities within its eight-state footprint. Some of these causes include the American Cancer Society, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Miracle Corners of the World, City of Hope, Container Recycling Institute, and Toys For Tots. To learn more about OnTrac’s charitable giving, please visit its website, ontrac.com/ compprofilecommunity.asp.

Hiring 800 positions companywide

OnTrac is also experiencing major growth in 2016. To better service customers while ensuring speedy delivery times and safe handling, OnTrac is adding staff for the peak holiday season. In 2016, OnTrac has added more than 1.1 million square feet of warehouse space, which creates the need for a larger workforce within OnTrac facilities throughout the eight-

state footprint.

The need to increase employment among all facilities directly relates to preparation for the 2016 peak holiday season. Most available positions are for temporary operational support roles, like part-time package handlers, with the ability to transfer into a permanent role after the holiday peak season ends. These positions are available at all OnTrac facilities with a variety of flexible shifts throughout the day and week.

OnTrac offers multiple advantages to part time employees as well. One being Teledoc, which is a telehealth company that provides on-demand remote medical care through mobile devices, the internet, and video. Prescriptions are also available via Teledoc. Another advantage is the compensation program that OnTrac offers, which is standard across all facilities and impacts the employee’s first 48 months of employment. During this time, the employee will receive routine raises every six months. Hourly pay and holiday pay can vary from facility to facility. Another great advantage to working with OnTrac in any role is the ability for career advancement. OnTrac takes pride in the company culture that has promoted package handlers to top management.

OnTrac is hiring for customer care agents at the corporate office in Chandler. These available opportunities are for full-time employment and include

full benefits. To search available career opportunities, go to ontrac.com/careers. asp and apply online.

“OnTrac is in a fortunate position to need employees due to company growth,” said OnTrac Vice President Dan Cronk. “Pair that growth with the peak season that OnTrac is heading into and that is directly related to the number of available positions. As a company, we are elated to welcome new team members to better service our great customers.”

OnTrac is a parcel logistics company with operations throughout the Western United States, arranging overnight delivery at ground rates to more than 60 million consumers. OnTrac was founded in 1991, and in 2014, OnTrac launched DirectPost, and became the first regional carrier to offer a USPS Package Consolidation Service. OnTrac is a SmartWay Transport Partner, a USPS Workshare Partner, and is integrated with over thirty different multi-carrier software providers.

OnTrac is comprised of three divisions based on service offerings— overnight, messenger and international. For more information on overnight services, call 800-334-5000 or visit ontrac.com. For more information on messenger services, call 888-334-5001 or visit ontracmessenger.com. For more information on international services, call 800-628-4868 or visit ontracinternational.com.

Chandler resident named Smashburger’s director of franchise sales

Smashburger, a fast-casual restaurant franchise known for its signature smashed burgers, appointed Glenn M. Moon of Chandler as director of franchise sales.

Moon joins the franchise sales team, under the direction of Gregg Koffler, senior vice president of franchising, to support the brand as it continues its expansion nationally and abroad.

Moon joins Smashburger following a strategic role at Choice International, where he was responsible for leading the growth of brands such as Sleep Inn, Cambria Hotels & Suites and The Ascend Collection in the Western United States.

“Glenn’s many accomplishments in a variety of franchise and real estate ventures will help Smashburger continue to grow and thrive,” Koffler said. “Glenn’s decade-long experience building solid client relationships and constructing strategic sales and development insights make him a valuable addition to our growing team.”

Moon earned a Bachelor of Science from Northern Arizona University, and is in route to completing a certification from Cornell University in December of this year in hotel investment and asset management. Moon is also pursuing ongoing education from the Urban Land Institute for best practices in site selection and acquisition.

“Smashburger is an exciting brand that has global brand recognition and appeals to a very expansive audience,” Moon said. “The ownership, leadership and offering

all align with my personal values, which was extremely attractive to me as I made my decision to join the team. I am looking forward to working with this team to help identify, cultivate and manage new franchise opportunities during this brand’s rapid growth phase.”

RDO Equipment Co. opens new store in Chandler

A new RDO Equipment Co. store has opened at 1400 S. Maricopa Rd. in what was once a vacant 10-acre lot on Interstate 10 in the Gila River Indian Community. It is the company’s second full-service John Deere construction equipment dealership in the Phoenix area.

“Our new store in Chandler furthers our commitment to customers and is allowing us to expand our overall services and product support capabilities in this growing market,” said Dennis Howard, the company’s southwest construction region vice president.

In keeping with the traditions and culture of the Gila River tribe, the grand opening event began with a traditional ceremonial blessing of the site led by tribal member Barnaby Lewis. Following the blessing, presented Lewis and the tribe with a special gift to commemorate the grand opening and signify the

partnership between RDO and the Gila River Indian Community.

Located in the Lone Butte Industrial Park, the 31,300-square-foot store features a large showroom with adjacent offices, sizeable parts warehouse and a 12-bay service shop with a drive-thru, open-air wash bay.

The service department is utilizing a water recycling system that filters the water used for washing equipment and allows it to be reused continually. Additionally, the store features LED lighting throughout, energy-efficient spray-foam insulation and polished concrete floors.

The store is the eighth in Arizona and 78th in the company’s network across 10 states. In addition to John Deere equipment, RDO provides equipment, parts and service for Topcon, senseFly and Hitachi.

Chandler brother and sister bringing technology to seniors

When Tom Yost of El Mirage found his 8-year-old computer getting “crankier and slower,” he contacted a Chandler-based company for help. Within days he had a customized laptop delivered to him, complete with a tutorial on the model he had purchased, by a Valley brother-andsister tech team.

Ironman Refurbished Business Computers (IRBC) was founded by Ken Chan and his sister, Linda, in 2011 when the technology teachers kept getting asked for low-cost PCs.

“This is the second laptop we have purchased from IRBC,” Yost said. “(My wife) Peggy was so happy were hers I purchased one to replace my old computer. The customer service is exceptional and they even explain what is on the computer so we know how to use it properly.”

“We had the idea to refurbish used computers because they were lower in cost than newer models but work just as well,” Linda said.

Focusing on top-rated business grade Dell and HP models due to their reliability, the two began repurposing and customizing laptops and desktops. They now sell more than 150 units per month to seniors, families, businesses and schools nationwide.

The discounted PCs come with a oneyear limited warranty, lifetime technical support and free delivery throughout the Valley on orders over $50.

The Chans chalk up IRBC’s success to the quality of their products and their customer service model.

Customers can call or text the company for available laptops and desktops or order from their website.

Customers can pick up their order by appointment at IRBC’s Chandler warehouse or have them delivered. Prices start at $249 and bulk sales are available.

“One of our biggest challenges is getting the word out but we get many referrals and social media has been very good to us,” Ken said.

For more information about IRBC, visit ironmancomputers.com, call/text 480-550-9078 or email info@ironmancomputers.com.

The Chandler warehouse is located at 2414 S. Gilbert Rd.

Chandler Chamber of Commerce celebrates top 100 Chandler businesses

The top 100 companies in Chandler were honored by the Chandler Chamber of Commerce at the Quantum Helicopters hangar in the Chandler Airpark, with over 300 attending. The selections were based on physical presence and the number of paid full-time equivalent employees.

Against the aviation backdrop of Quantum’s helicopters, high-flying aerialists, a 25-foot screen and the Google car, Mayor Jay Tibshraeny delivered a bright forecast of the local business community, siting many developments that will be taking place in Chandler.

The evening included videos featuring profiles of several Chandler businesses, produced by J2 Media.

The top 10 2016 Chandler 100 are Intel Corp., Chandler Unified School District, Wells Fargo-Chandler Campus, Bank of America, Chandler Fashion Center, Dignity Health Chandler Regional Medical Center, Gila River Gaming Enterprise Inc., PayPal, Verizon Wireless and the City of Chandler.

The next 15 selections were NXP Semiconductors, Microchip Technology Inc., Orbital ATK, Bashas’, GM Arizona IT Innovation Center, Phoenix Premium Outlets, Avnet Inc., CVS Education Management Corp., Arizona Nutritional Supplements, Pearson, GM Financial Services, Toyota Financial Services, Infusionsoft and Walmart.

The next 25 are Apria Healthcare, DaVita Inc., Oasis Behavioral Health Hospital, Salt River Project, ADP, Earnhardt Auto Centers (Ford, Cadillac and Chevrolet), Hensley Beverage Co., Healthways - Chandler Campus, Nationstar Mortgage, Rogers

Corp., Safelite Auto Glass, Chandler Gilbert Community College, Erickson Construction, OnTrac, Chapman Automotive Group, Origami Owl, Arizona Department of

Inc., Champion Home Builders Inc., Sound Packaging LLC, California Pools and Landscape, Costco, Ocotillo Village Health Club and Spa, Ports America,

Economic Security, UCT Chandler, Isola USA Corp., Asml US Inc., Glynlyon Pacific Scientific Energetic Materials Co., RideNow, Primavera Online High School, Kovach Building Enclosures, Maax Spas, Big Two Toyota Scion of Chandler, Arvato, Clearcall Solutions, CDW, Brycon Construction, FedEx Ground, Kaiser Aluminum AlexCo, nuHome, Somerset Landscaping Maintenance, Valley Protective Services, Insys Therapeutics Inc. and Iron Oaks at Sunlakes.

The next group selected were Crafco

GARMIN, Archstone Care Center, MomDoc, Penske Automotive Group, Gold Canyon International LLC, Great Heart Schools in Chandler, Layne Christensen Co. Inc., ArmorWorks Enterprises LLC, Chandler Gilbert ARC, South Bay Circuits Inc., Classy Closets, SanTan Brewing Co., Republic Services, Bonded Logic Inc., Phoenix Fibers, United Fibers, Desert Cove Nursing Center, Emblem Healthcare, UFP Chandler LLC, Academy Mortgage, Phacil Inc., Marvell Semiconductor Inc., Cintas Corp., Crane

Aerospace & Electronics, DBSI Inc., JP Morgan Chase & Co., Tokyo Electron America, Triumph Air Repair, Subaru & Porsche, Ironwood Cancer and Research Center and CoValence Laboratories.

The final group selected were First Credit Union, Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass, The Village at Ocotillo, Alliance Bank, Dialog Semiconductor, Hospice of the Valley, Ocotillo Golf Resort, Freeway Chevrolet –Chandler, Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort, Achen-Gardner Construction LLC, Young Electric Sign Co. – Yesco, Comfort Systems USA Southwest (formerly Tri-City Mechanical), Chandler Post Acute and Rehabilitation, Seton Catholic Preparatory, Artistic Land Management Inc., Toshiba Business Solutions, ADESA Phoenix, Copper Creek Inn Memory Care Community, Air Products and Chemicals Inc., BASIS Chandler, Local Motors, Precision Air and Heating, Everspin Technologies Corp., Eaton Corp., Creative Leather, Arizona Orthopedic and Surgical Specialty Hospital, Tri-City Baptist Church, Peoples Mortgage, International Flora Technologies Ltd., Sam’s Club 4927, Space Data Corporation and Dynamic Systems Inc. Mechanical Contractors

The chamber also recognized several companies for their significant contributions to the Chandler business and community culture: ASU, Banner Health Center–Chandler, Centurylink, Chandler Education Association, Cox Business, East Valley Tribune (the sister paper to the SanTan Sun News), Kyrene School District, Republic Media (The Arizona Republic), Southwest Gas Corp., Tempe Union High School District, APS and the SanTan Sun News.

50 Seton Catholic Prep students earn AP Scholar Awards

Fifty students from Seton Catholic Prep have earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on Advanced Placement (AP) Exams.

The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program provides 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. Of the estimated 2.2 million students worldwide who took the exams last year, about 22% earned an AP Scholar Award.

“The accomplishment of Seton’s AP Scholars is truly remarkable, especially given that our AP students often participate in other extracurricular activities, requiring them to balance academic studies with practice and rehearsals,” said Seton Assistant Principal David Sorkin. “To be named an AP Scholar demonstrates the courage and determination necessary to pursue such high levels of academic achievement.”

The College Board recognizes several levels of achievement based on students’ performance on AP Exams.

Twenty-five Seton students

qualified for the AP Scholar Award by earning an average score of at least 3.25 on a five-point scale on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. Seventeen students qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams.

Eight students qualified for the AP Scholar with Honor Award by earning an average score of 4 or higher on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams.

Catherine Li, a 2016 Seton graduate from Tempe, received special recognition as a National AP Scholar. The Cornell University student scored 4 or higher on eight or more AP exams with an average of 4 on all AP exams. Li sat for 11 AP exams and passed all of them.

Overall, 221 Seton students took 340 AP Exams in May, achieving a 68% pass rate as a group. Seton offers 17 AP classes that provide academic preparation for college.

Three Seton teachers are AP Exam readers, a distinction held by teachers and college faculty members worldwide to evaluate and score the free-response sections of AP Exams.

In other Seton academic news, Marcellina Wiertek of Tempe and Dominic Krzmarzick of Chandler

Seton students wins Veterans Day essay contest

Seton Catholic Prep prides itself on its patriotism: Students recite the Pledge of Allegiance in class and hold an annual Veterans Day event to honor military men and women. But even among such a patriotic student body, juniors Dillon Shipley and Tyler Creech stand out.

Shipley, of Phoenix, was the first-place winner of the annual Phoenix Veterans Day Parade essay contest; Creech, of Gilbert, was named a commemorative partner by the Vietnam Veterans of America East Valley Chapter.

“We are very proud of these young men,” Principal Pat Collins said. “Seton

Catholic Preparatory feels it is important that our students are aware of the sacrifice our veterans have made for our country.”

Shipley drew upon the experience of his uncle, a Vietnam veteran, for his essay, “DEROS,” which stands for Date Eligible for Return from Overseas.

Shipley wrote, “DEROS was something that kept our troops going, especially my uncle, former 2nd Lieutenant Rick West…

As his time got closer, he created a plan to take the cash that he had, $1,300, to buy a motorcycle and tour the country.”

Shipley described his uncle’s flight

to the United States on a packed “Freedom Bird” and his joy at arriving at his Illinois home. The planned motorcycle adventure, however, would have to wait: Within a week, West found work as an attorney.

Americans are proud of those who served in the once unpopular war, Shipley said, concluding the essay with, “Welcome home, Vietnam Veterans. Your DEROS is today.”

The essay contest is sponsored by Honoring Arizona’s Veterans, the nonprofit organization that coordinates the annual Veterans Day parade in

$33 million that will be awarded next spring.

Phoenix. Shipley received a cash prize and rode in the parade. This is the third consecutive year that Seton students have won or placed in the essay contest, which is open to Maricopa County high school students.

Creech received a commemorative medal from the Vietnam Veterans of America for performing the National Anthem and speaking at the East Valley chapter’s recent Welcome Home Luncheon. Creech said it is an honor to sing the anthem for veterans and performed it at Seton’s fourth annual “Tribute to Veterans” on Friday, Nov. 11, at the school.

Seton receives National Yearbook Program of Excellence Award

Seton Catholic Prep’s yearbook program has been recognized as a 2016 National Yearbook Program of Excellence by Jostens, the leading producer of yearbooks and studentcreated content.

The award recognizes yearbooks that reflect a broad representation of the student body while helping students develop skills in communication, collaboration and technology. Seton was one of only two yearbook programs in

the state to win the award.

Seton received the award for the 2015-16 publication, The Sentinel. The staff consisted of Kelly Molloy, Karli Burns, Mackenzie Angelo and Christine Aguiar under the direction of faculty adviser Melissa Tole and assistant adviser Jane Pearson. Kelly and Karli are seniors; Angelo and Aguiar graduated last year.

“Seton’s student publication staff, under the direction of our faculty advisers, have always produced

About Seton Catholic Preparatory

Founded in 1954, Seton Catholic Preparatory is a private, coeducational high school in Chandler, open to students of all faiths and dedicated to academic excellence, leadership and

loving service to others. Seton Catholic Prep serves young men and women from parochial, private, charter, public and home schooling backgrounds. For 60 years as the only Catholic college

outstanding yearbooks that truly capture the Sentinel experience. We are honored they have received such recognition from Jostens,” said Assistant Principal David Sorkin.

Founded in 1954, Seton Catholic Preparatory is a private, coeducational high school in Chandler, open to students of all faiths and dedicated to academic excellence, leadership and loving service to others. Seton Catholic Prep serves young men and women from parochial, private, charter, public

preparatory high school in the East Valley of Phoenix, Seton Catholic Prep focuses on developing the individual student. The Seton experience allows ample opportunity for students to

and home-schooling backgrounds. For 60 years as the only Catholic college preparatory high school in the East Valley of Phoenix, Seton Catholic Prep focuses on developing the individual student. The Seton experience allows ample opportunity for students to discover and develop their God-given talents in a supportive community, thus enabling them to succeed in higher education. For more information, visit setoncatholic.org.

discover and develop their God-given talents in a supportive community, thus enabling them to succeed in higher education. For more information, visit setoncatholic.org.

Music Maker Workshops set for winter break

Music Maker Workshops of Ahwatukee has scheduled its Morning Music Camp from 9 a.m. to noon during the Chandler Unified School District’s winter break, Monday, Dec. 19, to Thursday, Dec. 22. The classes are open to children ages 5 to 12.

The Morning Music Camp provides opportunities for expression, enjoyment and interaction with teachers who love music and art. Students will have a chance to play three instruments each day. They can choose from piano, violin, voice, drums, guitar and beginner recorder. If the recorder is chosen, kids should bring a personal recorder or purchase one at the studio for $5.

On the final day at 11:30 a.m., students will perform a group song to show what

they have learned.

There is also the Afternoon Art Camp from 12:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. to make holiday gifts. Students will be inspired to draw and paint things they love while learning the elements of art. A variety of media will be used for maximum fun and creativity such as drawing, painting, printmaking, clay or collage. Theory and technique are woven into class through fun art projects.

Music Maker Workshops, owned by 15-year Cooper Commons resident Shelley Yakubow, is located at 3233 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite 2, Phoenix. It’s at the southeast corner of Chandler Boulevard and 32nd Street. For more information, call 480-706-1224 or visit musicmakerworkshops.com.

‘Family Flicks’ event announced

Gather the family, a blanket and some holiday spirit for downtown Chandler’s “Family Flicks” on Thursday, Dec. 22.

This free event will feature a screening of “Elf,” along with snow, a Santa visit with complimentary photography, free hot cocoa, popcorn for purchase and a chance to interact with some of Santa’s elves.

Immediately preceding the event is the Chandler Farmers Market in the same location, Dr. A.J. Chandler Park west, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. This particular market will host additional craft vendors to purchase last-minute holiday gifts and the usual weekly local vendors.

“We’re excited to bring this new event

Mayor’s Teen Leadership Academy accepting applications

Chandler residents who are enrolled in high school or a similar level homeschool program are encouraged to apply for Mayor Jay Tibshraeny’s Teen Leadership Academy. During the five-day program, students will meet with elected officials, managers and staff from every City’s department to better understand how Arizona’s fourth-largest city is run.

The free academy will run from March 13-17, (Chandler Unified School District’s spring intersession) from approximately 9 a.m. to noon. Students must have transportation to and from City Hall during the duration of the program.

Applications for the program are available online at chandleraz.gov/

connect and must be submitted by Friday, Dec. 2. Completed applications may be mailed to: Dave Bigos, Mayor and Council Assistant, Chandler City Hall, 175 S. Arizona Ave., fifth floor, Chandler, AZ 85225. Applications also may be submitted via email to david.bigos@ chandleraz.gov.

The selection process will occur in December, and the new class will be introduced during the Mayor’s State of the City on Tuesday, Jan. 31.

For the third year in a row, the academy is being funded in part by the generosity of the Chandler Kiwanis Club. For more information about the program, contact Dave Bigos at 480-782-2222.

Enjoy fall season at Chandler’s Community Nights

Chandler’s Community Center is hosting a holiday craft and cookie decorating event that offers families fun from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15.

Make it a night with family and friends centered on the Christmas holiday season. Crafts, holiday card making,

to downtown Chandler,” said Deanne Fenton, event coordinator at Downtown Chandler Community Partnership.

“We’re hoping this free-to-attend event will help the community to get in the holiday spirit and help the classic conundrum of finding something fun and inexpensive to do when the kids are off school and family is visiting. Plus, who can resist an event with snow in Central Arizona?”

“Family Flicks” starts at 6 p.m., with the movie to follow at 6:30 p.m. Sponsors for the event include Marx Pro Productions and Murphy’s Law Irish Pub. For more information, visit downtownchandler.org.

cookie decorating and face painting will be enjoyed by children of all ages. The Chandler Teen Council will sell framed photos for $3 and Santa may show up. For more information about Community Nights in the Courtyard, call 480-782-2746 or visit chandleraz.gov/recreation.

BASIS.ed students twice as likely to be named AP scholars

Almost half (48.6%) of all BASIS.ed students who took AP exams in 2016 were awarded AP Scholar awards, according to results released by the College Board.

The awards recognize high school students who have demonstrated exemplary college-level achievement by earning a 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams.

AP Scholars are named based on the student’s average AP score on all exams taken this year, and in previous years. Award levels include AP Scholar, AP Scholar with Honor, AP Scholar with Distinction, National AP Scholar, AP Seminar and Research Certificate, AP Capstone Diploma and International AP Scholar.

Among BASIS.ed’s results:

• Students attending a BASIS.ed school are more than twice as likely to earn an AP Scholar award than their peers, and nine times more likely to earn the highest distinction, National AP Scholar.

• All of the ninth-grade AP scholars in the District of Columbia attended BASIS Washington, D.C., last year, and nearly half of the 10th grade AP Scholars in the district went to BASIS Washington, D.C., last year.

• More than nine out of 10 (92%) of all ninth-grade AP scholars in Arizona went to a BASIS.ed school last year, and more than half of the 10th grade AP Scholars in Arizona attended a BASIS.ed school.

• Half of the ninth graders in California who were named AP Scholars were BASIS Independent Silicon Valley students.

“This is an incredible honor for these individual students, as well as for the BASIS.ed community,” said BASIS.ed CEO Peter Bezanson. “We are continually impressed with the hard work, progress, and excellence of our students.”

The BASIS.ed network prepares students to be participants in the 21st century world of commerce and innovation. BASIS.ed faculty teach a curriculum that educates students at the highest international levels. BASIS. ed manages 21 public charter schools including 18 in Arizona, two in Texas, and one in Washington, D.C., as well as five independent schools in Fremont and San Jose, California, Brooklyn and Manhattan, and McLean, Virginia, and one international school in Shenzhen, China. For more information, visit BASISed.com or vectors.BASISed.com.

Nonprofit seeks area representatives to join international team

ASSE International Student Exchange Programs is seeking individuals to serve as area representatives in Chandler.

ASSE provides academic year and semester exchange programs in the United States for high school students from around the world. Students are 15 to 18 years of age, have passed a series of academic and character requirements and are awaiting an opportunity to embark on their American adventure.

Area representatives recruit and screen prospective host families, interview students to study abroad and supervise the exchange students in their community. Area representatives are compensated based on the number of students they are supervising. There is also a great bonus opportunity.

ASSE’s primary goal is to contribute to

international understanding by enabling students to learn about other languages and cultures through active participation in family, school and community life.

For more information about ASSE or becoming an area representative, call the Western Regional Office at 1-800-7332773 or email asseusawest@asse.com.

ASSE International is a nonprofit educational and cultural exchange organization headquartered in Laguna Beach, California. ASSE promotes global learning and leadership by offering a unique, richly personal experience for students, volunteer families, host high schools and local communities. ASSE reaches across interpersonal and international borders, celebrating worldwide community through the spirit, character and promise of our youth.

Google contests launch; students can win big

Google has once again launched the Doodle4Google competition with the theme “What I see for the future.”

For the contest, kindergarten through 12th-grade students are invited to show their creativity and a chance to see their own doodle on Google’s homepage.

From crayons to clay, graphic design, or even food, young artists can utilize any materials to bring their creation to life. Like all Google Doodles, each doodle must incorporate the letters G-o-o-g-l-e.

One national winner will also receive a $30,000 college scholarship. The contest is open for entries through Dec. 2.

As in past years, Google will announce a winner in each state in early February. The public will then have a chance to vote on their favorites. The national

finalists and national winner will be named by March 31, 2017. Last year, Madison Gonsalves, a third grader from Santan Elementary School in Chandler, was one of the 53 state and territory winners.

Winning Doodle 4 Google comes with some great perks: in addition to seeing their doodle displayed on the homepage after the competition closes, the winner will also receive a $30,000 college scholarship and a $50,000 Google for Education Technology award for his/her school. Plus, the winner and four other national finalists will visit the doodle team in Mountain View, California. More information, including all contest rules, is available at https:// doodles.google.com/d4g/.

Story Monsters Ink takes the literary world by storm

In a little more than two years since its launch, Story Monsters Ink has become a beacon for parents and teachers searching for quality reading material for children.

The publishing house instills the joys of reading in kids and adults.

Story Monsters Ink began as a monthly newsletter and has since turned into a major magazine with subscribers across the globe. The magazine has featured interviews with top authors and artists, including Jamie Lee Curtis, Kenny Loggins, Kate DiCamillo, James Patterson, Dav Pilkey and Jeff Kinney.

And the industry loves it, too. The subscription-based family magazine recently received several notable literary accolades.

In August, Story Monsters Ink won the Mom’s Choice Gold Award and was named “among the best in familyfriendly media, products and services.”

In October, School Library Journal named it “among the great magazines for kids and teens” for its varied content, including articles about science and nature, reading guides, and book reviews written by children for children. It was also recently announced that the magazine’s publisher, Linda F. Radke, won the 2016 Irwin Award for Best Publisher of a Literary Magazine, and Cristy Bertini, the magazine’s editorin-chief, also won the Irwin Award for

Best Editorial Director.

In her acceptance speech, Radke thanked the Story Monsters Ink team for its contributions to the magazine’s success.

“Cristy tells me every month that this will be the best issue yet, and it always is, thanks to our tremendous team of writers, designers, columnists, and contributors, and we want to express our sincerest gratitude to Melissa Fales, Jeff Yesh, Kris Taft Miller, Conrad Storad, Debbie Greenberg, Darleen Wohlfeil, Nick Spake, Leigh Carrasco, Rita Campbell, Olivia Amiri, Diana Perry, Jenna Grodzicki, Bill McManus, Kristin Maggio and Shirin Zarqa-Lederman for their hard work and dedication. And we also want to thank our advertisers. They have supported this publication from the beginning and I want them to know how much we appreciate them.”

everything they do.

Having been in the rollercoaster world of publishing for more than 30 years, Radke said that supporting children’s literacy is her team’s goal in

“That is the light behind Story Monsters Ink,” Radke said. “And behind every successful magazine, is a great editor-inchief. Cristy is that editor. I have her to thank, because she makes this magazine what it is and I couldn’t ask for a better leader. As for the next issue, just wait and see. It will be the best one yet.”

To subscribe to Story Monsters Ink, visit StoryMonsters.com. Digital subscriptions are free and 12-month print subscriptions are $39. New print subscribers receive a free Story Monster plush reading buddy. For more information, email info@ storymonsters.com or call 480-940-8182.

November 28th - December 21, 2016

Precision Air & Heating announces college scholarship

Family-owned Precision Air & heating is offering an annual $1,000 scholarship award for students enrolled full time in an accredited college or university, according to CEO Erik Bryan.

Applications for the scholarship are being taken now through April 30, 2017.

The Precision Air & Heating Academic Scholarship is open to students from all areas of academic study, but the company is especially encouraging students interested in a career in any area of business to submit an essay. It is available to undergraduate and graduate students.

Applicants are asked to write a 500- to 800-word word essay on the following topic: What do you believe are some of the most important advancements in how small businesses can thrive and survive in a competitive landscape against the

larger corporations?

Entries should be emailed to scholarships@602fixmyac.com and use subject line “Scholarship Submission.”

Applications must also include their name, address, e-mail address and phone number.

Attach essay as a Microsoft Word document or PDF.

Include recent school transcript and proof of enrollment.

Applicants must be enrolled at an accredited college or university. The Precision Air & Heating Scholarship panel will choose the best essay and issue an award check to the winner.

Full details about the Precision Air & Heating Scholarship are available at https://www.precisionairandheating. com/scholarships/.

Ronald McDonald House Charities’ scholarship application process open

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Phoenix Scholarship Program has opened its application process for Arizona high school seniors.

The deadline for the 2017 academic year is 11:59 p.m. Central Time Jan. 18, 2017, and all mailed back-up documents must be postmarked by the same date. Applicants will be notified of scholarship award status by May 2017.

Last year, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Phoenix, with the support of Arizona McDonald’s owner/operators, awarded $250,000 in scholarships to 100 Arizona high school students.

Local chapters of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), with support from RMHC Global, McDonald’s Corp. and McDonald’s restaurants, offer scholarships to students of all backgrounds from communities who face

limited access to educational and career opportunities.

Visit aim.applyists.net/RMHC for more information and to apply. Students must be a high school senior; be eligible to attend a two- or four-year college or university with a full course of study; reside in central or northern Arizona; and submit a complete application and all required documentation by Jan. 18, 2017.

The RMHC National Scholarship Program is supported through the efforts of neighborhood McDonald’s owner/ operators, local and national Ronald McDonald House Charities and the McDonald’s Corp.

Since 1995, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Phoenix has generated more than $2.5 million in funding for the National Scholarship program to benefit Arizona high school students.

Chandler Unified School District news

CTA FREEDOM

Chandler Traditional Campus-Freedom 6040 S. Joslyn Ln., Gilbert, 85298

480-224-2600

mychandlerschools.org/domain/1152

Celebrating veterans

CTA Freedom third graders performed a special concert on Thursday, Nov. 3, in honor of Veterans Day. The students recited poems from “The Free and the Brave,” and presented patriotic and American folk songs and dances, under the direction of music specialist Karen Sejkora.

—Amie P. Chombah, fourth-grade teacher

WEINBERG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

5245 S. Val Vista Dr., Gilbert, 85298

480-812-7500 cusd80.com/domain/4099

Veterans Day activities

Students in Mrs. Schwalenberg’s sixthgrade class at Weinberg were privileged to hear from guest speakers who had served or are serving in the armed forces. The students learned the meaning of Veterans Day.

In honor of veterans, the secondgrade classes at Weinberg Elementary participated in a Veterans Day musical.

The JROTC cadets from Perry High School presented the colors. Many veterans attended the musical and were moved by the students’ patriotism.

Weinberg was fortunate to host New York Times bestselling author Shannon Messenger on Nov. 15. —Laura Thornburg

HANCOCK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

2425 S. Pleasant Dr., Chandler 85286 480-883-5900, mychandlerschools.org/ hancock

STUDENT CHRONICLES

Grant Knight of Chandler was recently named an Ervin Scholar at Washington University in St. Louis. Knight, one of 41 Ervin Scholars selected this year, is a firstyear student at Washington University. The Ervin Scholars Program awards scholarships to incoming first-year students who demonstrate exceptional intellectual and leadership achievements, and who have shown a commitment to community service and bringing diverse people together. Scholars are actively involved in the Washington University community and continue the legacy of the late John B. Ervin on campus. Ervin, a nationally renowned black educator, scholar and author, was dean of the School of Continuing Education (now University College in Arts & Sciences) at Washington University from 1968 to 1977. The award is for full- and partial-tuition scholarships and is renewable for all four years of undergraduate study. Tuition for the 2016-2017 academic year is $48,950.

Kwabena Adu-Kwarteng of Chandler has been named both an Ervin Scholar and an Enterprise Scholar at Washington University in St. Louis. Adu-Kwarteng, one of 41 Ervin Scholars and 21 Enterprise Scholars selected this year, is a first-year student at Washington University in St. Louis. Adu-Kwarteng graduated from Chandler High School, where he held office in student government and participated in debate and tennis. Through his involvement

in National Honor Society, Adu-Kwarteng volunteered and raised money to help end childhood hunger.

The Ervin Scholars Program recognizes incoming first-year students who demonstrate exceptional intellectual and leadership achievements, and who have shown a commitment to community service and bringing diverse people together.

Enterprise Scholars are selected based on academic merit, leadership skills and a commitment to community service. Their scholarship is made possible by Enterprise Holdings, operating the Alamo Rent A Car, National Car Rental, as well as the Enterprise Rent-A-Car brands. Enterprise Holdings has provided $50 million to Washington University over the past 15 years to help the university “develop the best and brightest minds from our society.”

The award is for full- and partial-tuition scholarships and is renewable for all four years of undergraduate study. Tuition for the 2016-17 academic year is $48,950.

Kaitlyn Wright of Chandler and Azusa Pacific University student was included in Who’s Who Among Students, one of the most highly regarded and long-standing honors programs in the nation. Wright, a Global Studies major, is honored for outstanding campus leadership, academics and volunteerism. Wright joins 94 other APU students receiving the same honor. Azusa Pacific University in Azusa,

California, is an evangelical Christian university committed to God First and excellence in higher education. With 61 bachelor’s degrees, 40 master’s degrees, 17 certificates, 11 credentials, eight doctoral programs, and four associate degrees, the university offers its more than 10,000 students a quality education on campus, online, and at seven regional centers throughout Southern California.

Carolyn VanSickle, of Chandler, was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines. VanSickle was initiated at Ball State University. VanSickle is among approximately 30,000 students,

faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10% of seniors and 7.5% of juniors, having at least 72 semester hours, are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction. Founded in 1897 at the University of Maine and headquartered in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Phi Kappa Phi has chapters on more than 300 college and university campuses in North America and the Philippines.

Community Commentaries

Find time, compassion to give this holiday season

BY COUNCILMAN TERRY ROE

I know it’s hard to believe, but the holidays are fast approaching and it is time to consider helping those in need. Disadvantaged families and individuals in crises tend to experience heightened levels of stress during this season. Simple acts of kindness and generosity can go a long way toward turning these feelings around.

Across the Valley, organizations are preparing food and toy drives to benefit people of various ages. Longtime Chandler resident and retired radio personality W. Steven Martin’s 911 Police & Fire Charity Toy Drive serves disadvantaged children and youth who have experienced trauma in their lives. For more than 31 years this event recruits police officers and firefighters to act as Super Elves delivering toys to children’s homes, bringing them a message of hope

and positive contact with public safety professionals.

The Salvation Army, ICAN, Chandler Christian Community Center, Matthew’s Crossing, St. Mary’s Food Bank, the Boys and Girls Clubs and many more local and regional service organizations collaborate to collect and distribute toys, food, gift cards and goodwill to children and families in need. I encourage you to join with me and contact any of these agencies to inquire about drop off locations; deadlines and specific items needed this year.

An easy way to contribute is to make a tax-deductible donation to the organization of your choice. You can receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit of up to $400 for individuals and $800 for married couples from the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit to support these

amazing organizations. A comprehensive list of groups who qualify can be found on the State of Arizona Department of Revenue’s website at azdor.gov.

Right now, busy community leaders who are leading the charge for holiday giving are also looking for volunteers to collect, sort and distribute items. How about you? This is a great way to get your family and friends involved and meet new, caring people like yourself. This holiday season let’s make an extra effort to encourage each other and show real kindness to those in need. We can work together to give back and be generous to make a real difference.

Be sure to check out the City of Chandler’s YouTube channel and subscribe to Chandler in Focus to see videos that highlight some of the great things that are happening in our community.

Have a story idea or news tip? Know of an interesting photo opportunity? How about positive feedback or constructive comments? We’d like to hear from you. Email us at News@SanTanSun.com.

Share your opinion with SanTan Sun News!

We know you have an opinion! Share it with the SanTan Sun News. Please keep your Letters to the Editor around 200-300 words, or they may be edited for length. Include your first and last name, community

or development name in Southern Chandler (Cooper Commons, Ocotillo, Sun Groves, etc.) or ZIP code and daytime phone number for verification. Anonymous letters are not typically accepted. Email is the

preferred submission method, to Letters@ SanTanSun.com.

All submitted Letters to the Editor and Community Commentaries become the property of the SanTan Sun News and may be reprinted in part, quoting the letters’ authors, or in their entirety. Your submission to the SanTan Sun News is considered your permission to print your written opinion. Opinions expressed in Community Commentaries, Letters to the Editor or cartoons are those of the author, and not that of the SanTan Sun News.

Have a story idea or news tip? Know of an interesting photo opportunity? How about positive feedback or constructive comments? We’d like to hear from you. Email us at News@SanTanSun.com.

mailing address: PO Box 23 Chandler, AZ 85244-0023

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©2016

For News Tips, Editorial Articles, Opinion or Classifieds, email is preferred.

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Deadline

Editorial and Advertising

Noon Tuesday, Nov. 22, for the Saturday, Dec. 3, issue

35,000

Total Circulation

27,250+ Driveways

Fifty square mile coverage area from Price/101 to Greenfield and from Frye to Hunt Highway.

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YOUR HOMETOWN BUT CHER

Family-owned and operated traditional butcher shop providing meat from The Greater Omaha Packing Company, which has been in business since 1920. We carry USDA Prime and CAB Choice or higher grade meats with a minimum of 30 days aging. Our chicken and pork is all natural with no sodium nitrates or added solutions. We have fresh sausage and Dietz & Watson lunch meats and cheeses.

Neighbors

Holiday events abound downtown

With the holidays around the corner, downtown Chandler and the City of Chandler have rounded up events and festivities to get in the holiday spirit. From window art, Santa visits, an ugly holiday sweater event and new holiday light designs; there is something for everyone to get merry and bright.

Holiday Decorations

Holiday lights along downtown square

Since Nov. 11, guests could view the new holiday light designs at several locations: along Arizona Avenue, between Chandler Boulevard and Frye Road, on the west side of Boston near Burst of Butterflies Art Studio and inside Dr. A.J. Chandler Park west.

Holiday window art

Participating merchants will have their windows decorated for the holidays by local artists. The designs feature winter landscapes and unique items relating to the business; hint— Saba’s Western Wear may feature a pair of boots on their windows. Guests are encouraged to walk the historic square and see them all, as each is unique.

Downtown Chandler holiday banners

In addition to the lights and window art, guests can view special

holiday banners, designed by high school students who won the recent Downtown Chandler Holiday Banner Challenge, along Arizona Avenue in between Chandler Boulevard and Frye Road. Available for viewing through Jan. 13.

Chandler Tumbleweed Tree

Rounding things off is the infamous

Rubio’s opens Arizona Avenue location

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Ralph Rubio is “thrilled” that he’s expanded his restaurant’s reach even farther into Chandler. Rubio’s Coastal Grill at 3885 S. Arizona Ave. is the first new Arizona location in eight years.

Rubio, the chain’s co-founder, said his team chose the Paseo Lindo shopping center as the location for the new Rubio’s Coastal Grill because of its tenants and prime corner.

“We like to go into new shopping centers, especially those anchored by strong tenants like Target and MOD Pizza,” Rubio said. “That brings traffic into the area. That’s just a big plus for us.”

In addition to many store openings over the past year, Rubio’s has redesigned nearly 70 of its restaurants to reflect the brand’s evolution beyond its signature original fish taco.

“Since opening the first Rubio’s restaurant in San Diego more than 30 years ago, our reputation for delicious coastal cuisine has spread across the nation, and our following of loyal fans throughout Arizona has continued to grow,” he said.

“We’ve been here in Arizona for about 16 years. We opened our first one in Ahwatukee and the second one in North

Co-founder Ralph Rubio primarily handles the menu.

Scottsdale a while ago. We’ve grown to about 20 restaurants in Phoenix and four in Tucson. We’ve gone through a rebranding effort and we’re remodeling. It’s an exciting see RUBIO’S page 42

Chandler Tumbleweed Tree, which will be available for viewing in all its grandeur starting Dec. 3 at the Tumbleweed Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights event.

Holiday celebration events

Various dates: Santa’s House Come downtown, next to the Tumbleweed Tree, at Dr. A.J. Chandler

Park west, on these dates and times to see Santa.

• Dec. 8: The Chandler Farmers Market will be going on at the same location and time, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

• Dec. 10: Noon t o 5 p.m.

• Dec. 15: At the Chandler Farmers Market, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

• Dec. 17: Noon to 5 p.m.

• Dec. 22 : At the Chandler Farmers Market and Family Flicks Event, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Courtesy photography available at this event.

Saturday, Nov. 26: Small Business

Saturday

The day will feature three local musicians performing along the streets of the downtown square from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Entertainment locations are as follows:

• Brian Kabala: in front of Vintage 95.

• 76th Street: in between Downtown Chandler Café and Bakery and El Zocalo

• Craig Robinson: in between Uptown Bridal and Shoe Thrill

Saturday, Dec. 3: The Tumbleweed Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights Local favorite; The Tumbleweed

Founder of high-performance driving school gets two big honors

BY DAVID M. BROWN

Bob Bondurant, founder of a highperformance driving school in Chandler that bears his name, has added two new accolades.

Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights event returns to the downtown on Dec. 3. Event runs from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Parade starts at 7 p.m. More information can be found on the city’s website, chandleraz.gov.

Friday, Dec. 16: The Ugly Holiday Sweater Chandler Art Walk

Don your ugliest holiday sweater and meet us in the downtown for the monthly Third Friday Chandler Art Walk from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. More than 35 local artists will display and sell their works in Dr. A.J. Chandler park west and along North San Marcos Place, starting at SanTan Brewing Co. and heading south. Artists will be selling various mediums; jewelry, paintings, drawings, woodworking and more, with many selling items priced at $50 or less. The event is a great opportunity to get in some last-minute Christmas shopping and gift a local treasure. Dmitri Matheny will provide live music for the night from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. More information can be found on the Chandler Art Walk Facebook page.

Sunday, Dec. 18: Caribbean Christmas Half Marathon and 5k Race

Registration is going on for this island-themed Christmas event new to Chandler. Racers can run or walk. All racers receive a finisher medal, local gourmet coffee and a post-race donut from Fractured Prune. In addition, there will be live reggae music immediately following the event. Check-in is at Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort, while live music and the after party are located at the Downtown Stage Plaza. Race begins at 8 a.m. More information

can be found on the producer’s website, 131events.com

Thursday, Dec. 22: Holiday Bazaar

Chandler Farmers Market

Shop the weekly local vendors you know and love as well as additional craft vendors for last minute holiday shopping. In addition, Santa will be available for a complimentary photo from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Live music by Sydney Sprague from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Event runs 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park west. Elves will walk around the market in preparation for the Family Flicks event in the same location starting at 6:30 p.m. More information can be found the Chandler Farmers Market Facebook.

Thursday, Dec. 22: Family Flicks

This is a free, family-friendly event. Bring a blanket or lawn chair to Dr. A.J. Chandler Park west to watch “Elf.” Movie starts at 6:30 p.m. Popcorn and hot cocoa will be available. Elves will walk around and Santa will visit at the beginning of the event. More information can be found at downtownchandler.org.

Holiday Promotions

Downtown Chandler Winter Passport

Small Business Saturday, Nov. 26, will kick off the new Downtown Chandler Winter Passport, a booklet of coupons and promotions redeemable at participating downtown merchants and available for use throughout the winter months, Nov. 26 through Feb. 28. Those who complete all the required coupons and promotions can turn their passport in for a chance to win a Downtown Chandler Staycation. More information on the submittal process and rules can be found on downtownchandler.org.

Downtown Chandler holiday banner challenge winners announced

With over 28 submissions, two highschool artists have been chosen for the inaugural Downtown Chandler Holiday Banner Challenge. Their designs will be displayed along Arizona Avenue, from Chandler Boulevard to Frye Road through Jan. 13

All submissions were voted on by the public at the Oct. 21 Chandler Art Walk and by a panel of holiday banner judges. Cindy Ha and Clara Wallengren, both students at Perry High School, won the challenge with their Happy Ugly Holiday Sweater Season and Downtown Chandler

Ornament designs, respectively.

The two artists each will receive a $50 gift card to a downtown Chandler restaurant, a plaque of their winning design and a $500 scholarship from Downtown Chandler Community Foundation. On Monday, Nov. 7, both winners were presented with their plaques by Mayor Jay Tibshraeny at the Chandler City Council Study Session meeting.

“We (SpeedPro and Downtown Chandler Community Partnership) were very excited to bring this competition to the downtown. Not only does it give

18 reasons to ‘travel’ local this winter

Starting on Nov. 26, Small Business Saturday, and continuing throughout the winter months is a new way to enjoy Downtown Chandler and cross off those places you’ve been meaning to try.

The Downtown Chandler Winter Passport is a booklet of promotions and coupons that is redeemable at the participating merchants, and if the traveler completes all the required destinations, they can turn their passport in for a chance to win a downtown Chandler staycation.

Eighteen Downtown Chandler merchants have an offering in the booklet, making it easy to find something that everyone will love. Offerings range from buy-one-get-one

half off, percentages off a purchase and free items with a certain dollar purchase. The passport offers a perfect opportunity to save while unwinding at a romantic date before the in-laws arrive, bringing the whole family out for a breakfast or simply Christmas shopping.

Passports will be available at various downtown Chandler merchants, the City Hall Visitor’s Area, the monthly Third Friday Art Walks and Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Chandler Farmers Markets (see the Downtown Chandler booth).

After obtaining the passport, it’s time to start saving and enjoying downtown Chandler hotspots. Simply take the booklet into the participating merchant and let them know you’d

our downtown some holiday cheer, but it helps these students expand their portfolios, get recognition for their work and, through the sponsorship provided by the Downtown Chandler Community Foundation, gives them some dollars to use towards their future education,” said Beth Fiorenza, executive director of Downtown Chandler Community Partnership.

Locals are invited to visit the downtown to view the winning designs along with the holiday lights and festive window art at participating merchants.

like to use their coupon. An employee at the establishment will mark the offer as redeemed by stamping the corresponding page in the passport. From there on out, you can take the booklet to other locations and “travel” the downtown.

One lucky winner will be chosen to win a staycation for two. The staycation includes:

• One night stay at the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Resort

• 2 VIP tickets to a Downtown Chandler festival (Beer & BBQ or Cajun Fest)

• $50 gift card to La Bocca / Modern Margarita

• $15 gift card to Ice Cream Sammies

• $20 gift card to the Downtown

Chandler Cafe & Bakery

• Souvenirs from Sibley’s West

For those interested in entering for a chance to win the downtown Chandler staycation, attention must be paid to the pages that have an ostrich on the bottom right-hand side. All offers with the ostrich must be stamped, and therefore marked as redeemed, to be eligible for entering the contest. All offers are redeemable Nov. 26 to Feb. 28. Completed passports must be turned in by March 1 at Peixoto Coffee. One winner will be chosen. Winner will be announced on March 6.

Coupons and offerings are valid Nov. 26 to Feb. 28. See downtownchandler.org or the Facebook event listing for more information.

time for Rubio’s Coastal Grill.”

The new restaurant design draws inspiration from the sea and features elements and aesthetics reminiscent of the brand’s beach heritage. Hues of cobalt, green, indigo and sand sparkle throughout the restaurants and patios with shimmering blue tiles that guide guests to Rubio’s signature salsa bar. Artwork that highlights the brand’s philosophy, quality ingredients and cooking techniques are spread throughout the dining room. Modern pendant lighting illuminates natural wood found throughout the restaurant and community seating, and the multicolored chairs evoke thoughts of coral

and sea shapes.

Rubio’s has sold more than 200 million original fish tacos and uses sustainable seafood in nearly all its seafood menu items. The brand continues to expand its menu with innovative recipes, ranging from Regal Springs tilapia tacos and burritos, and sustainable grilled gourmet shrimp tacos to a California bowl made with wild Alaska Coho salmon and a chipotle orange salad with wild Pacific Mahi Mahi.

“We started with the fish taco 33 years ago and built the business on that,” he said. “We also have a grilled gourmet shrimp taco. Anyone who tries it is over the moon. You can have shrimp or steak. It’s one of the best

things you’ll ever eat.”

Built from scratch

Rubio had no culinary experience when he cofounded Rubio’s. A Los Angeles native, Rubio attended San Diego State University and he would travel over the Mexican border for Spring Break trips. Between his trips and his family’s Mexican heritage, he learned what it takes to make a good fish taco.

“I have a love and passion for all things Mexican,” he said. “I thought it might be a good idea to open a fish taco stand on this side of the border, so people didn’t have to drive five hours into Mexico to get good ones.

“I did that with my dad and my family 33 years ago.”

Six years ago, Rubio’s went private and new owners came on board. Rubio maintains an equity stake. Rubio’s primary responsibility is still the menu; something, he said, is evolving.

“Rubio’s has evolved from a fish taco stand to a fresh Mexican grill chain, with chicken burritos and salads,” he said.

“There’s always something going on in this business,” Rubio said. “With 200 restaurants, there are plenty of places to visit and people to work with. We have 4,000 team members in six states.”

Vendors from around the region will be selling items from their sizeable inventories. Ra es and silent auctions will be held throughout the show for an opportunity to win some amazing prizes. Food will be available for purchase. This is a unique event the whole family enjoy!

• Original jewelry designs, gemstones, beads and ndings

• Rare and unusual crystal, mineral and fossil specimens

• Lapidary, ndings, rough material and slabs

• Kid’s Corner – lots of fun activities

The twin honors come as he prepares to mark the 49th anniversary of his Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving in February at Wild Horse Motorsports Park in Chandler.

“It’s a wonderful affirmation that my fans and peers heartily recognize that I worked very hard for all the wins in my life and that they also recognize that at 83 years old, I go to work every day and live my passion driving and teaching,” he said. “I have never seen my career as working to live; I have always lived to work.”

Bondurant was accompanied by his wife, Pat, their son, Jason, and other relatives and Bondurant employees at ceremonies at the National Corvette Museum.

Bondurant was honored for his distinguished record driving early secondand third-generation Corvettes in California during the late 1950s and 1960s as well as his

later track achievements.

“During Corvette’s early years, Bob Bondurant helped to validate the Chevrolet Corvette as a world-class sports car, winning on racetracks both in the U.S. and abroad,” a hall spokesman said in a release.

Bondurant recalled, “Like most racers, I started on ground zero.”

After his father took him to midget-car races in the 1940s, he began competing with his Indian Scout 101 motorcycle, then drove a Morgan automobile competitively in southern California.

“I am an original California hot-rodderturned-white-hot when I started winning everything in my Corvettes,” he said.

From 1959 to 1963, Bondurant drew the world’s attention.

He won the West Coast “B” Production Championship, notching 18 of 20 races in 1958-59. In 1959, Valvoline named him Corvette Driver of the Year and he was National SCCA Driver of the Year.

In June 1964, he and friend Dan Gurney

Holiday gift ideas abound at Epiphany Lutheran’s boutique and bake sale

Epiphany Lutheran Church invites the community to attend its holiday boutique/ craft and bake sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at the church, 800 W. Ray Rd., Chandler.

More than 20 vendors will have holiday items available for purchase, including

seasonal décor, Scentsy, dog blankets, Origami Owl, scarves, jewelry, nail wraps and soaps. Baked goods will also be available for purchase. The public is invited to attend. Contact the Sue Beyer at sue@ betterbuyerinsurance.com or cell 602-703-9945 for vendor information.

won the GT Class at Le Mans in France.

In 1965, again for Shelby, Bondurant won seven of his 10 races in Shelby Cobras and Daytonas to deliver to Ford and Shelby American the FIA World Manufacturer’s Championship. He is still the only American team to achieve this title.

Bondurant competed in nine Formula 1 World Championship Grand Prix events.

He joined the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame as part of its 46th class. Since 1957, this honor has been accorded to athletes, coaches, administrators and others who have significantly contributed to Arizona sports.

“Bob Bondurant and the rest of the 46th Class of the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame epitomize the make-up and caliber of our now 102 members,” said Arizona Sports and Entertainment Commission CEO Alan Young.

The driving school began in California in 1968 after Bondurant survived a near-death accident at Watkins Glen, New York, when a steering arm on his McLaren MARK II

Take a break from Black Friday shopping to enjoy specials at El Palacio, 2950 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Deals include half-off gift cards, $3 margaritas and $4 “fire and rice,” a drink made with rumchata and fireball whiskey between 10 a.m. and noon Nov. 25.

El Palacio is also hosting a holiday tamale class at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at the restaurant. The $15 cost includes tamale making, recipes, lunch and drink.

For more information, call 480-802-5770 or visit epfamilyrestaurants.com.

CanAm snapped at 150 mph. Bondurant’s first students included the late actors and racing enthusiasts Jim Garner and Paul Newman.

The only purpose-built facility of its kind in the world, the school employs 61 instructors, administrative staff and technicians.

Nearly 500,000 people have taken various courses, including professional racers, executives, law enforcement officers, military specialists, performance enthusiasts and day-to-day drivers.

Nonprofessionals often just want to become safer and more proficient at handling everyday street and highway driving.

“When you boil it all down into a teaspoon of what we teach at Bondurant, it’s car control,” Pat Bondurant said. “We have always taught the Bondurant Method, a collection of the right things Bob learned as a successful race car driver to make racers into champions and the average driver into a safer driver.”

Chompie’s offering full dinners, sides for Thanksgiving

Chompie’s, Arizona’s New York-style deli, is taking pre-orders for whole oven-roasted turkeys, pies, or full course meal packages. Chompie’s five Valley restaurants, including the Chandler location, will be open Thanksgiving Day, for dine-in and pick-up service.

“We know how busy it is during the holidays,” said Chompie’s founder Lovey Borenstein. “Sometimes you need a little help in the kitchen so you can spend most of your time with your family.”

Chompie’s turkeys and “fixings” are cooked fresh from scratch using the Borenstein family recipes. They’re made the same day as the scheduled pick up and include reheating instructions, so they can be served in about 30 minutes.

The Thanksgiving menu includes full meal packages, individual turkeys, and a la carte sides:

• The traditional full meal package (serves 12-15 generously): $209.99

• Thanksgiving dinner (for dine in or to go): $18.99 per person

• Extra-large whole oven roasted turkey: $99.99; carved for $124.99

• Fresh baked apple or pumpkin pie: $12.95 each

• Fresh baked deluxe pies: $14.95 each

• Homemade stuffing: $6.99 per pound

• Matzo ball soup: $8.99 per quart

• Homestyle green beans: $5.99 per pound

Whole turkey and large dinner packages must be ordered at least 72 hours in advance for pick up on Nov. 23 or Nov. 25. Chompie’s will be open from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thanksgiving Day.

The Chandler location is at 3481 W. Frye Rd. For more information, call 480-398-3008 or visit chompies.com.

Christmas donations needed for domestic-violence shelter

A Chandler domestic violence shelter is asking the public to donate new clothing and toys as Christmas gifts for families who utilize the facility.

My Sisters’ Place requests that no toy weapons or Nerf guns be donated.

Donations can be dropped off between Nov. 28 and Dec. 21 only at Engenuity Systems, 2465 W. Pecos Rd., Suite 1, Chandler. For more information, call 480-821-1024.

Sun Lakes Fall Craft Show returns

The crafty folks in Sun Lakes are hosting their annual fall show and sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26.

More than 70 vendors will showcase their handmade crafts and artwork at the Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 N. Sun

Lakes Blvd. Admission is free and open to the public. Craft shows are great places to find unique Christmas gifts while supporting local artists and stimulating the economy.

Plunge into holiday at Chandler Turkey Swim

Before dipping into the mash potatoes and gravy on Thanksgiving Day, consider a dip in the pool at Chandler’s annual Turkey Swim.

Chandler Aquatics staff are opening Hamilton Aquatic Center for lap swimming from 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 24, to help people burn some calories before plunging into their Thanksgiving meals.

“This is the eighth year we’ve opened for lap swimming on Thanksgiving morning and people really enjoy it,” said Jessica Chamberlain, a recreation coordinator. “Our aim is to get the community involved in some fitness and share in the holiday spirit.”

The water is heated and admission is free to participants bringing a canned food item to be donated to the Harvest Compassion Center in Chandler. Otherwise, the cost is $2.

Hamilton Aquatic Center is located

at 3838 S. Arizona Ave., on the northwest corner of Arizona Avenue and Ocotillo Road. For more information, call 480-782-2750.

Tumbleweed Park goes to the dogs with return of Woofstock

Dog lovers from Chandler and neighboring communities are invited to attend Woofstock, the ninth annual dog friendly festival from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 19, at Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S. McQueen Rd. The event will benefit the American Service Animal Society, and parking and admission are free.

“Dogs really are man’s best friend,” said Hermelinda Llamas, the City of Chandler’s special events coordinator.

“Woofstock raises awareness of the great work the American Service Animal Society does by providing service training

and certification to therapy dogs that motivate disabled veterans to live a more productive life.”

Whether your pooch prefers to “ruff it” on a hiking adventure or sit in the lap of luxury at a pet spa, the variety of petrelated vendors and activities are sure to have him (and you) begging to come out and play.

Notable activities include:

• Pet adoptions and low-cost vaccinations hosted by Maricopa County Animal Care & Control

• Walk of Honor hosted by the American

Service Animal Society

• Canine spor ting demonstrations at various times throughout the day exhibited by the Blazin’ K9s, Brittany Rescue, Chandler Police K9 unit and Dog Training Elite

• Pets on Parade invite all VIP (very important pups) to don their best costume for a chance to win fabulous prizes

• Pet caricature drawings and portraits for local paparazzi

• Pet psychic readings as told by Terrie Wallace

• Dance performance from The Dance Company at San Tan Foothills.

Pets and people alike can also enjoy food and beverages throughout the park. All food and drinks are pay-as-you-go, as Woofstock is a cash-only event and no ATMs are onsite, although some vendors may accept credit cards.

The City of Chandler, American Service Animal Society and Maricopa County Animal Care present Woofstock in partnership with FASTMED, Southwest Airlines, SRP, The Arizona Republic, Home Depot and The Phoenix Dog magazine. For more information, visit chandleraz. gov/woofstock.

Kay Cornelius receives LPGA honor for junior golf leadership

Ocotillo Golf Resort’s Director of Instruction Kay Cornelius was recently honored as the Central Section award winner for the Junior Golf Leadership honor by the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Teaching and Club Professional membership.

Presented annually to LPGA teaching professionals who demonstrate outstanding accomplishments related to junior golf during the year, honorees are selected by the LPGA teaching and club professional section officers and section nominating committee chairperson.

Honorees were selected in each of the six sections of the LPGA’s teaching and club professionals. The LPGA Teaching and Club Professional National Awards Selection Committee will now select the overall national award winner in each category from among the section award winners. Cornelius is no stranger to the recognition having won the national honor in 2012.

“It’s a true honor to once again be recognized for this fantastic LPGA award,” Cornelius said. “I have a passion for sharing my love for the game of golf with my students and there is certainly no better place to learn the game, then here at Ocotillo Golf Resort.”

Cornelius began teaching at Ocotillo Golf Resort in 1995 and has been an Ocotillo community resident since 1997. An accomplished junior golfer herself, Cornelius was the youngest winner of the U.S. Girlsʼ Junior Championship in 1981 at the age of 14. She continued her success as a junior golfer winning the Junior

World Championship and the Arizona State Junior Championship twice during the early ’80s.

As a junior and amateur golfer, Cornelius played in 19 USGA Championships from 1979 to 1987, including the U.S. Womenʼs Open in 1982 at age 15. Cornelius played college golf at Stanford University from 1984 to 1988, competed in four NCAA championships, and earned NCAA All-American honors in 1988.

After earning a bachelor of arts in sociology from Stanford University, she turned professional and competed on the worldwide professional tours. Since 1996, she has fulfilled her passion for teaching and coaching golfers at the Troonmanaged Ocotillo Golf Resort. She has a special gift for teaching junior golfers and has taught several current and past NCAA Division I collegiate players. Even though junior golfers encompass a large part of her clientele, Cornelius teaches/coaches men and women golfers of all ages and ability levels.

“Congratulations to Kay Cornelius for being recognized by the LPGA Central Section for the Junior Golf Leadership honor,” said Mark Bakeman, director of golf, Ocotillo Golf Resort.

“Kay has done so much wonderful work growing the game here at Ocotillo Golf Resort, especially with her developmental programs for the junior golfer. She shares her passion for the game in a way that is truly contagious to all. Kay is a tremendous asset to Ocotillo Golf Resort and we are truly

thankful for having such a talented individual on our staff.”

For more information on Cornelius or instructional opportunities at Ocotillo Golf Resort, visit ocotillogolf.com or call 480-917-6660

Ocotillo Golf Resort is a resort-style daily fee facility featuring 27 holes of Ted Robinson-designed golf. Ocotillo Golf Resort opened in 1986 and is recognized as a Top 50 Resort by Golf World and a 4 1/2-star golf course by Golf Digest. A traditional-style course, Ocotillo Golf Resort’s lush fairways, cascading waterfalls and colorful flora offer a unique contrast to the desert landscaped

courses that permeate the Scottsdale/ Phoenix region. The most iconic feature of Ocotillo is the expanse and quantity of shimmering water features.

Twenty-four of the 27 holes feature water that comes into play, creating beautiful yet dramatic hole framing for this integral part of the course design. Despite the quantity of water features, the layout offers generous fairways and landing areas, creating birdie opportunities for golfers who think their way around the course. Ocotillo Golf Resort and Bernard’s Restaurant is also a popular venue for weddings, banquets and dining events.

Philanthropic group to celebrate Christmas with Jan Kloster

“The Maji and The Star of Bethlehem” will be the topic of Jan Kloster’s Christmas message at the annual P.E.O. luncheon at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Palo Verde Country Club’s dining room.

Kloster is a member of P.E.O. Group B, Sun Lakes; Chapter S, North Dakota and a past state president of North Dakota State P.E.O. Chapter. P.E.O. stands for Philanthropic Educational Organization.

At the event, a Hamilton High School choral group will sing Christmas music before lunch.

Sun Lakes Chapter is hosting this event and suggests arriving at 11 a.m. to shopping. The program begins at 11:30 a.m. and the luncheon at noon.

P.E.O. is passionate about its

mission of promoting educational opportunities for women. The sisterhood makes a difference in women’s lives with six philanthropies that include Cottey College and five programs that provide higher educational assistance: P.E.O. Educational Loan Fund, P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship Fund, P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education, P.E.O. Scholar Awards and P.E.O. STAR Scholarship.

All P.E.O. resident or visiting members are invited and urged to attend. Make reservations before Nov. 23, and send a $20 check made out to Chapter DW, P.E.O. and mail to Judi Clement, 25615 S. Ribbonwood Dr., Sun Lakes, 85248. For more information, call Shirley Langer at 480-895-1505.

Library hosting ‘Crafternoon’ and library bingo

Patrons are invited to attend two programs, both requiring registration at the Ed Robson Library in Sun Lakes.

At 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 29, it presents “Crafternoon: Forest Creatures.”

“Crafternoon” gives kids ages 3 to 6 the chance to make two tiny forest creatures and then write their own story about exploring the forest. Registration is limited to 15 participants.

“Literary Bingo for Adults” puts a new

spin on the traditional game of bingo at 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2. Instead of matching numbers on a bingo card, readers will answer questions related to books and authors to win fun prizes. Limited to 25 attendees 18 and older.

The library is located at 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. For more information about registering, call 602-652-3000 or visit mcldaz.org. Like the library on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mcldro.

BETTER than GRANITE

Sun Lakes United Methodist Church plans cookie walk

Sun Lakes United Methodist Church will host its annual cookie walk and candy sale at 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 3.

At the cookie walk, customers purchase a carry-out box for $10 and fill it to capacity by selecting cookies from tables laden with festively decorated items; Some are made from time-honored traditional family recipes. All cookies and candy are fresh and homemade.

The candy shop features fudge,

peanut brittle and other holiday treats. Candy prices are $6 per pound and may be purchased in either half-pound or 1-pound containers. These goodies are available only once a year, and once the doors open they go quickly.

Sun Lakes United Methodist Church is located at 9248 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. The cookie walk will be held in Lindsay Hall, adjacent to the east parking lot. Proceeds are donated to mission projects.

Enter Chandler Recreation’s Nature Photo Contest

Each year, photographers from around the Chandler area are invited to focus their lenses on nature and then enter their photographs in the City’s annual Nature Photo Contest organized by Chandler’s Recreation Division.

Entries are being accepted through March 15, in three categories:

This Beautiful City, Creature Worth Noticing, and Picture Worth A Thousand Words. Entries must come from a Chandler park, program or event and can be submitted digitally online at chandleraz.gov/naturephotocontest, or in person at the Environmental Education Center (EEC), 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd.

“We’re looking for photos that showcase the awe-inspiring and diverse natural world around us,” said Dexter Belling, the recreation coordinator

organizing the contest. “That could be a powerful wildlife shot, a stunning landscape, or a look at a complicated environmental issue—whatever nature means to you.”

Resident James Fetterman submitted several photographs last year using his trusty Canon t3i DSLR camera. A resident of Sunbird in South Chandler, he took up the hobby late in life and has seen his photos published in several local publications. His advice for beginners is to take one’s time and to take a lot of pictures.

“You need to be patient, and if you see something in action, keep taking pictures,” said Fetterman.

Winning entries will be displayed in the ECC lobby with a blue ribbon affixed next March to the winning images in each category.

Learn about the history of American Indian clothing

Designer and Author Margaret Wood will present a virtual historical fashion show about American Indian clothing in the United States. The program will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Downtown Chandler Public Library, 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Information about pre-contact clothing will be presented along

with changes that occurred with the introduction of manufactured trade goods. The author’s book “Native American Fashion” will be available for purchase at the program. For more information, call 480-782-2800, email infodesk@chandlerlibrary.org or visit chandlerlibrary.org/.

Hard-of-hearing specialist to discuss handling emergencies

Michele Michaels, hard of hearing specialist with the Arizona Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, will discuss emergencies and the hard of hearing from 12:45 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, at the Ed Robson Branch Library, Lecky Center, 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes.

Learn about what to do if you’re pulled over by a police officer, in a car accident, or any number of emergency situations. For more information, email Liz Booth halib72@gmail.com or Regina Milgroom reggiefaith@gmail.com. Patty Dennehy at the library also has information. Call 602-652- 3000.

Christmas with Clay Aiken Accompanied by a Twenty-Two-Piece Orchestra Friday, December 16 7:30pm

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Neighbors

NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKS

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

About Care

Monthly volunteer training, by individual appointment.

A nonprofit serving homebound Chandler and Gilbert residents; provides transportation, shopping and errands, friendly visits, reassurance phone calls, and minor home repairs. Info: 480-802-2331, aboutcare.org

Absolute Business Builders: Business Networking International

8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays Chompie’s

3841 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Nikki Janulewicz, 480-570-1835, Nikki@azbestmove.com

Action Networkers: Business Networking International

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays Chompie’s

3841 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Marty Recht, 602-315-2056, Marty@AZMarty.com

Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter, Chandler 5:30 p.m. second Thursday of the month Support group for caregivers of people with dementia. Free and no preregistration required.

Chandler Regional Medical Center, Mor-

rison Building, Learning Resource Room 1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Mindy, 602-528-0545, ext. 201

American Legion James O. Schroeder Post 55

7 p.m. third Tuesday of the month Sun Lakes Country Club, Navajo Room 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes Info: Commander Byron Weston, 480-802-6623

Arizona Special Education Network, Chandler area

Provides disability-related education, advocacy and resources to help parents navigate the complex special education system. Info: 602-531-0230

Breast Cancer Support Group

2 p.m. to 4 p.m. second Monday of each month Free, no preregistration required

Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Info: Kelly, 480-340-4013, ironwoodcrc.com

Build Your Own Business: Chandler

8 a.m. first and third Thursday of each month

East Valley networking and referral organization, meets in Ahwatukee at a private location; address will be provided upon

contact.

Info: Lisa, lisa@lisamatusak.com, facebook.com/BYOBAZ

Cancer Caregiver Support Group-Chandler

10 a.m. to 12 p.m. third Saturday of each month

Support group for caregivers of people with cancer. Free and no preregistration required. Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers

685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Info: Kelly, 480-340-4013, ironwoodcrc.com

Caregiver Support Group

10 p.m. to 12 p.m. third Saturday of each month

Ironwood Cancer & Research Center

685 S. Dobson Dr., Chandler Info: Kelly Huey, 480-340-4013, ironwoodcrc.com

Chair Yoga Class-Chandler 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Wednesdays Free, no preregistration required

Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers

685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Info: Kelly, 480-340-4013, ironwoodcrc. com

Chandler Airport Commission

7 p.m. second Wednesday of each month

The commission makes recommendations to the Chandler City Council regarding airport operations, physical growth, economic development and proposed land use.

Chandler Municipal Airport terminal 2380 S. Stinson Way, Chandler Info: 480-782-3540

Chandler Business Alliance

7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Thursdays

Professional business coalition dedicated to the economic and social development of its members and the Chandler community as a whole. BLD 1920 W. Germann Rd., Chandler Info: chandleralliance@gmail.com, chandleralliance.com

Chandler Chamber Business Golf

7 a.m. tee time, first and third Wednesdays of each month

Includes nine holes of golf, continental breakfast and networking opportunities. Preregistration required online. Golf venue varies.

Info: chandlerchamber.com

Chandler Farmers Market

3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursdays

Weekly market with more than 30 vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, gourmet food and handmade crafts. Free admission.

Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, on the east side of Arizona Avenue, Chandler Info: 480-855-3539, downtownchandler.org

Chandler Lions Club

6:30 p.m. first and third Tuesdays of each month

Area residents are invited to come join like-minded volunteers and make new friends.

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

EVENTS

NOVEMBER

19 Woofstock, Tumbleweed Park, 782-2900

19 America in Times of Conflict Series-In My Own Words: Memories of World War II, Hamilton Library, 782-2800

19 Achen-Gardner Construction presents Rock the Block!, Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 284-6033

24 8th Annual Turkey Swim, Hamilton Aquatic Center, 782-2750

24, 25 Thanksgiving Day holiday - City of Chandler Offices Closed

26 Small Business Saturday – Shop Local

DECEMBER

3 Tumbleweed Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights, Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 782-2665

5 City Council Meeting & Study Session, Council Chambers, 782-2180

8 City Council Meeting, Council Chambers, 782-2180

8, 9 Polar Express, Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 782-2908

8, 17 Santa’s House, Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 782-2665

15 Community Nights in the Courtyard, Community Center, 782-2746

15 Sonoran Sunset Series featuring NeXXlevel Band, Veterans Oasis Park, 782-2889

16 Ugly Holiday Sweater Downtown Chandler Art Walk, Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 855-3539

22 Holiday Bazaar Downtown Chandler Farmers Market, Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 855-3539

22 Family Flicks featuring “Elf,” Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 855-3539

27 Snow Day, Environmental Education Center, 782-2890

For event details, visit chandleraz.gov or call the Chandler Special Events Hotline at 782-2735

Chandler teens enrolled in high school or a similar level home-school program are encouraged to apply for Mayor Jay Tibshraeny’s Teen Leadership Academy. This five-day program will teach participants about the inner workings of municipal government from the Mayor and Council office to every department in the City. Students will meet with City elected officials, managers and staff while also participating in activities to better understand how Arizona’s fourth largest city is run. Applications are now available online at chanderaz.gov/connect and are due by Friday, Dec. 2. The new class will be introduced to the community during the Mayor’s State of the City address on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017. Once selected, the class will meet from 9 a.m. to noon, March 13-17, (during Chandler Unified School District’s

spring intersession) at Chandler City Hall.

For more information, contact Mayor and

Support Chandler’s turkey & food drive collection

The Thanksgiving Day holiday is right around the corner and Chandler’s local food banks are in need of holiday items for their food box distributions. There are several ways you can help!

Purchase a “paper” turkey for $5 or $10. Turkeys are available for purchase online at forourcitychandler.org/holiday-drives.html. They also are available for cash purchase at the City’s Neighborhood Resources Office, 235 S. Arizona Ave.

Donate a frozen turkey to one of the following food banks thru December: Chandler Care Center, 777 E. Galveston St.; Chandler Christian Community Center, 345 S. California St.; St. Vincent de Paul Society, 230 W. Galveston St.

Paper turkeys may be purchased for $5 or $10. Donations will be evenly split among three local food banks.

Mark Stewart appears to be Chandler’s new councilmember in runoff election

According to unofficial election results from Maricopa County, Mark Stewart has won the final of three open seats on the Chandler City Council. The two other seats were voted in last August with the re-election of Councilwoman Nora Ellen and newcomer Sam Huang. Newly elected Councilmembers will start their four-year terms in January.

Donated paper turkeys will be on display at Chandler City Hall.

Donate any of the following items to help complete food boxes for Chandler families in need: canned vegetables; canned fruit; boxed side dishes (pasta or rice based); instant mash potatoes; two pound bags of rice or beans; canned or ramen-type soups; canned cranberry sauce; boxed stuffing mix; cereals; boxed dry desserts (such as pudding or cake mix); toiletries, such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc.; paper goods, including tissues, toilet paper and paper towels.

For more information, visit forourcitychandler.org/holiday-drives.html.

Council Assistant David Bigos at 782-2222, or david.bigos@chandleraz.gov.

Don’t forget! Share your feedback and take the City’s budget survey

It’s that time again! The City of Chandler is starting its budget process and encourages residents to provide their thoughts about the community and its future. Chandler residents may complete the online survey at chandleraz.gov/budget. The survey will be available through the end of December. Survey results are shared with the Mayor, City Councilmembers, City Manager and staff to assist in the formulation of the City’s financial plan.

Paper copies, in either English or Spanish, may be picked up at various City facilities, including libraries, community centers and the City Hall lobby. Paper copies also may be downloaded from the web site. Completed paper surveys should be returned to City facilities or mailed to the City of Chandler, Budget Division - Citizen Surveys, Mail Stop 609, P.O. Box 4008, Chandler, AZ 85244-4008. For more information, call 782-2252.

Nominate Chandler volunteers

Volunteers have an enormous impact on the health and well-being of our community.

Each year the City, the Chandler Non-Profit Coalition and For Our City-Chandler honor the contribution of its volunteers. Faithbased groups, nonprofits, schools, businesses and other organizations are encouraged to nominate individuals for one of eight Chandler Volunteer Recognition Awards. Also, all volunteers with more than 1,000 hours of service will receive a lapel pin and certificate from Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. Volunteers with more than 100 hours also will receive a certificate from the Mayor.

To nominate a deserving volunteer online, visit chandleraz.gov/volunteer100.

2016 People’s Choice nominees with Mayor Jay Tibshraeny.

Applications also may be downloaded and submitted via email to niki.tapia@chandleraz. gov. The deadline to submit applications is 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2. Top volunteers will be recognized during a breakfast in February 2017. For questions, call 782-2214.

Rock the Block returns to downtown Chandler Nov. 19

The seventh annual Achen-Gardner Construction Rock the Block! returns to downtown Chandler Saturday, Nov. 19. The block party-style event will run from noon to 10 p.m. at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park. Achen-Gardner Construction is the title sponsor of this year’s event.

Rock the Block! is an annual free, family-friendly block party that celebrates the fun, dynamic lifestyle that Chandler has to offer. The event has garnered more than 18,000 attendees in the past and is expecting to attract even more in 2016. The annual block party, which is organized by the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership and Steve LeVine Entertainment & Public Relations, will feature:

• Live entertainment on multiple stages, including the annual Chandler’s Got Talent competition.

• A Kids Zone including interactive games and rides, face painting and inflatables.

• More than 100 retail, arts and crafts vendors.

• Top local restaurants and food trucks

• Family-friendly beer garden. For information regarding the event, vendor applications or sponsorship opportunities, visit rocktheblockaz.com. For updates, follow Rock the Block! on Facebook at facebook.com/rtbchandler, Twitter at twitter.com/rtbchandler and Instagram at instagram.com/rtbchandler.

Cornerstone Church Harvest Festival

Harvest Festival returned to Cornerstone Church in Chandler on Halloween and featured games, bounce houses, petting zoo, live music and tons of candy. Even more, guests could purchase wristbands a 50-foot Ferris wheel, super slide, stunt jump and tornado. Cornerstone Chandler is located at 1595 S. Alma School Rd. For more information, visit cornerstoneonline.com.

Chandler author shares brain tumor struggle in latest book

BY COLLEEN SPARKS

Chandler author Kate Mathias has enjoyed creating characters that jump into other worlds in her paranormal fiction books. But she found truth was stranger than fiction when she learned she had a brain tumor.

Mathias took a page from her own life when she wrote “Awake, but Still Dreaming,” about her diagnosis and recovery from a brain tumor. When she signed book at the Author Walk recently, some proceeds from sales were donated to the National Brain Tumor Society.

“I wanted to make a difference with this because I feel like there’s a reason why I’m still here,” Mathias said. “I finally feel like I’m really living.

“Every day that I wake up is a blessing to me,” added the 39-year-old

mother of three.

Mathias enjoys hearing from readers and wants to help others understand brain tumors.

Her ordeal began with severe headaches in 2012, and a doctor misdiagnosed her as having had a stroke.

Later Mathias injured herself at a gym and lost feeling from her waist down. Doctors at the hospital believed she had multiple sclerosis until finally a neurologist diagnosed her with a brain tumor.

The doctor told Mathias if she didn’t have surgery to remove it, she would probably die within two or three years.

“I really feel like I’m living on borrowed time,” Mathias said.

Her tumor was removed in February 2014. The tumor was not cancerous but it

Native American comedy coming to Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino

The Native American comedy troupe, 49 Laughs Comedy, is coming to Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino on Saturday, Nov. 26. After launching a successful career in live performances, plus appearances in films, commercials and television, the Navajo comedy duo James Junes and Ernest Tsosie III co-founded 49 Laughs Comedy in 2010. The troupe of rising stars in Native American comedy included actor/ entrepreneur Tatanka Means, stand-up comedian Adrianne Chalepah and MC Pax Harvey.

Since then, this talented team has been in high demand, booking concerts, conferences, event centers, colleges and guest appearing on television, film and print. Their comedy is family-friendly, yet entertaining even for the late-night crowds. With their versatile style, there is always something for everyone.

49 Laughs Comedy will appear Saturday, Nov. 26, at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino at 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler.

Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show begins at 8 p.m.

General admission tickets are $20. Discounts are available: $10 off for Gila River Indian Community members and all tribal members (enrollment card required), group sales and hotel sales package clients and Gila River Gaming Enterprises team members.

Gila River Casinos Players Club card members receive the following discounts based on tier level: Emerald $5, Ruby $10, Gold $15, Platinum $20. All discounts are per ticket; four tickets maximum per Players Club member. Tickets are at retail pricing when purchased online or by phone. Discounts are available at the box office only.

All guests younger than age 21 must be accompanied by a ticketed adult always and stay in the designated under 21 areas.

Tickets can be purchased online at WinGilaRiver.com, by phone at 1-800-WINGILA or by visiting the box office at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino or Lone Butte Casino.

did leave her with some serious, lingering health problems.

The former teacher and Realtor, who moved to Chandler from Iowa six years ago, has a 10-inch scar on her head and suffers seizures because of the surgery.

But she’s on the mend, suffering fewer and less-debilitating seizures than she experienced right after the surgery. Mathias attributes her recovery to exercise, a healthy diet, supplements and getting enough sleep.

Despite the gravity of her health scare, Mathias shared funny moments in her latest book. She said having a brain tumor removed “made natural childbirth feel like nothing.”

“I wanted to have a book people could read and enjoy and not be so heavy,” Mathias said. “There’s multiple laughs told

through creative non-fiction. You feel like you’re in the story.”

She said she tells her children to be kind to everyone because while people like her might look normal on the surface, they may be struggling with their own issues.

While “Awake, but Still Dreaming” is a personal tale, Mathias brings elements of herself into the characters in her other books: “Worlds Apart,” “Hiding in Plain Sight,” and “Spitfire.” The three books make up her “Silver Oaks” series, with “Worlds Apart” and “Spitfire” considered paranormal romance and “Hiding in Plain Sight” a paranormal suspense novel.

Mathias’ books are available on Amazon.com, iBooks and through NOOK Books on barnesandnoble.com.

Make ornaments, cookie platter at As You Wish Pottery

As You Wish Pottery offers a slew of activities for youth to adults through December.

There will be a class to make clay handprint ornaments and Santa and angel handprint ornaments, Friday, Nov. 25, to Sunday, Nov. 27. Cost is $15 each.

Santa Claus is coming to As You Wish from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 3. Join us for a very special event where Santa will read the “The Polar Express” and kids will paint a magical train bank. $35, all inclusive.

Beginning Technique, “Doe a Deer” Chalkboard Platter, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9. Customers ages 12 to adult will learn how to paint a trendy doe Christmas platter using blending techniques, contact paper and DIY chalkboard paint. $12 plus a choice of pottery.

Mommy and Me, Little Fingerprint Ornaments, 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 10. For toddlers/ preschoolers and a parent, the class is $20 and includes two ornaments. Children and their parents will work together to turn their fingerprints into Christmas ornaments.

Home School Social: “Santa’s Lil Helper” allows kids to make a cookie plate from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 15. For $15, all inclusive, home schoolers will learn basic painting techniques including masking, blending and brush lettering.

Beginning Technique/Spolvero— “White Christmas” Platter gives patrons ages 12 to adult the chance to create a simple plater using this stenciling and beginner techniques from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16.

To register for these classes, visit asyouwishpottery.com/classes. The Chandler studio is located at 2970 Germann Rd., Suite 4.

Comedian Pablo Francisco delivers impressions, sound effects and parodies

Comedy Central star Pablo Francisco is performing 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, and 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20 at The Improv, 930 E. University Dr., Tempe. Francisco draws audiences into his vivid imagination and takes them on a wild ride as they experience his spontaneous outbursts, clever insights and some of the funniest rapid fire

comedy ever unleashed. His two Comedy Central one-hour specials, “They Put It Out There” and “Ouch!,” continue to stay on the network’s most requested list. Later this year Pablo’s stand-up will be featured on MTV’s new show, “Acting Out.”

Tickets are $28. Info: 480-921-9877 or www.tempeimprov.com.

Theater Works welcomes award-winning puppeteer

Former “Sesame Street” puppeteer and Jim Henson Award-winner David Stephens returns to Theater Works for a special performance of “The Adventures of the Gingerbread Man” at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19. He will present a master class on puppet construction and manipulation from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20. Both take place at the Peoria Center for the Performing Arts, 8355 W. Peoria Ave., Peoria.

In this 40-minute show, the audience will follow the little troublemaker as he makes narrow escapes from unsuspecting cookie lovers. You’ll also meet Redina, a little red hen who learns how to follow directions in a retelling of the classic story, “The Little Red Hen.” Friend Gripe and Bicker learn the value of working together when they are granted three wishes in a new version of “The Three Wishes.” Lots of characters to meet in this wacky, fun-filled show. Intended for all ages. Tickets are $12.

Stephens will guide students ages 16 and older through the basics of foam puppet construction and manipulation in the master class, and each student will create a simple Muppet-style handand-rod puppet and learn the basics of performance, including lip-syncing, eye

Former

David Stephens returns to Theater Works for a special performance and a master class on puppet construction and manipulation, Nov. 19 and Nov. 20.

focus and character development. Cost is $125 and includes materials.

Stephens was a Muppet performer on “Sesame Street” and The Jim Henson Company and has created and performed characters for his own Atlanta-based company, All Hands Productions. He also worked as a puppet assistant for several “Sesame Street” Home Video productions and became a day-player on season 39 of “Sesame Street,” performing Anything Muppets. Tickets: theaterworks.org or 623-815-7930.

Next Theatre Artist Studio production is witty and heartfelt

The Theatre Artists Studio is performing “The Herd” Nov. 25 to Dec. 11 at 4848 E. Cactus Rd. in Scottsdale. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays.

Directed by Judy Rollings, the play is a witty and heartfelt look at family life when it doesn’t turn out quite the way you imagined. It’s Andy’s 21st birthday and preparations for the party are underway. But Andy and his caregiver are

running late. As his family gathers, two unexpected guests appear, straining the delicate family dynamic.

Tickets are $15 for students 25 and younger; $20 for groups of 10 or more, seniors 65 and older and active or retired members of the military; and $25 for general admission.

Info: 602-765-0120 or thestudiophx.org.

LOGO: Theatre Artists Studio.jpeg

17th anniversary production

of The Ahwatukee Foothills Nutcracker

Ballet opens Dec. 17

The Ahwatukee Foothills Nutcracker Ballet is being performed 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18, at Dance Studio 111 at 4910 E. Chandler Blvd., Phoenix. Santa Claus will be making a special appearance at the Saturday and Sunday matinees along with cast members signing autographs.

Dancers, from 3 to 19 years old, live throughout the area and have been rehearsing since August for the performances. The production features over 400 personally designed costumes

and headpieces as well as falling snow, angels dancing on clouds and a Christmas tree that grows through the roof of the theater.

Audience members will also be able to sit and take photographs on Clara’s Throne in the Land of Sweets, and take photographs with the Nutcracker, Mouse King, Sugar Plum Fairy and Clara and many other cast members.

Tickets are $18 to $40. Info: 480706-6040, afnutcracker.com and ahwatukeenutcracker@yahoo.com.

Mesa Arts Center receives grant for aging programs

The Mesa Arts Center is receiving a $72,450 grant from the U.S. Regional Arts Organizations in support of its Creative Aging programs offered for adults 55 and older. MAC plans in using the funds to develop programming already in place for lifelong learning opportunities for senior citizens living independently as well as in various assisted-care facilities.

MAC was among six recipients of the Creativity Connects: National Demonstration Projects grant, awarded through support from the Mellon Foundation.

Partners for MAC’s programs include Oakwood Creative Care Inc., Banner’s Alzheimer’s Institute and Mesa Public Libraries. The Arizona Commission on the Arts from the Western States Art Federation’s region nominated the City of Mesa and MAC.

MAC’s current Creative Aging programs include Mature Moving Me for mature movers over age 55, Entangle hands-on sessions where participants create mixed media, abstract sculptures, Duende flamenco movement and culture for older adults, Works-in-Progress feedback sessions for those looking to develop an independent creative practice, and Ageless Wonders, a performing troupe for adults 55 and older presented in partnership with Mesa Public Libraries.

MAC will announce additional Creative Aging programs later this season. Info: engagement@mesaartscenter.com.

MAC, owned and operated by the City of Mesa, is Arizona’s largest multidisciplinary arts center with four theaters, five art galleries in the MCA Museum and 14 art studios. Info: mesaartscenter.com.

Artists of the Superstitions hold art show in Gold Canyon

A fine art show is being held 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27, in the Upper Towne Hall and Courtyard at the Gold Canyon Golf Resort, 6100 Kings Ranch Rd., Gold Canyon. Admission is free for the event sponsored by Artists of the Superstitions. A diverse selection of artwork, including ceramics, fabric, fiber, glass, gourds, jewelry, painting, photography and woodworking will be represented by local. In addition to the show, canned goods and money will be accepted for the Apache Junction Food Bank. Info: artistsofthesuperstitions.com.

Ever dreamed of being an author?

Scott A. Combs, a local indie author, is hosting the Chandler Chapter of National Novel Writing Month, 1:15 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. through Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Hamilton Library, 3700 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. He will offer tips and encouragement on finishing the work necessary to write a successful 50,000-word novel in a month.

Combs is the author of five novels available on Amazon and is also a graphic designer with a degree in computer science. His presentation will include techniques necessary to finish a manuscript with easyto-follow instructions.

Info: nanowrimo.org and scottacombs.com.

‘Jingle Bells’ expected at Sun Lakes Chorale concert

The Sun Lakes Chorale invites the community to its annual Holiday Concert on at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, at Sun Lakes Methodist Church, 9248 E. Riggs Rd.

The chorale is a 70-member, mixedvoice choir conducted by Christine Temple-Evans. She and husband, Bart Evans, who is the chorale’s performance coordinator, are recognized East Valley music educators. The group also includes a professional percussionist and piano

accompanist.

Among holiday favorites, the evening’s program will include the Mack Wilberg arrangement of “O Holy Night,” as well as exciting arrangements of “Ding Dong! Merrily on High,” “Out of the Orient Crystal Skies” and a rollicking arrangement of “Jingle Bells.” Call 480-883-6997 for ticket information and go to sunlakeschorale. com to learn more about the group.

New holiday musical puts Arizona center stage

BY JUSTIN FERRIS

A quick glance through the traditional holiday repertoire—“The Nutcracker,” “A Christmas Carol,” “Messiah,” traditional carols, big band holiday tunes, etc. —shows a decidedly European and coastal American influence. Meanwhile, Arizona’s holiday claim to fame begins and ends with Irving Berlin’s classic tune, “White Christmas,” which a disputed legend says he wrote while staying at the Arizona Biltmore.

True, we do offer Frances Smith Cohn’s “Snow Queen,” but that non-holiday tales comes from the Danish Hans Christian Anderson. We can also claim Alice Cooper’s Christmas Pudding rock show, which features the long-time Arizona resident, plus several native bands like the Gin Blossoms. But with a guillotine involved, the Halloween-like show is decidedly not kid friendly.

This year, however, Arizona gets a uniquely Southwest holiday event for the whole family. Nonprofit theater company Childsplay—known for its “Junie B. Jones” series and “Rock the Presidents”— performs the newly written musical “A Very Hairy Javelina Holiday.”

Not only does the show star Arizona animals, Childsplay’s own Associate Artistic Director Jenny Millinger and Music Director Todd Hulet adapted it from a book called “A Very Hairy Christmas” by Arizona-based author Susan Lowell. Childsplay previously wrote and performed another musical based on one of her books called “The Three Little Javelinas.”

The basic plot for “A Very Hairy Javelina Holiday” follows three javelinas, Josefina, Juan and José, as they prepare for Christmas.

Josefina practices her Sugar Plum Fairy dance while Juan bakes cookies for Santa and José wishes for snow.

The arrival of Cousin Angelina, however, disrupts their holiday plans, and the plot thickens even more when the tricky coyote makes an appearance. What will our javelina heroes do? Will they survive the coyote, or—more dangerously—their relative?

As Childsplay aims this musical at children 5 and up, you can rest assured

that everything works out for the best in the end.

According to Director Dwayne Hartford, “Everyone learns that there’s no such thing as a perfect holiday. And no matter how you celebrate, or whatever problems might occur, the holidays are so very special because you share them with your family and friends.”

That’s a holiday message people of all ages can appreciate.

If You Go

Where: Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe

When: Weekends to Saturday, Dec. 24; Saturdays at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., Sundays at 1 p.m.; Additional shows Thursday and Friday, Dec. 22-23 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Cost: $15-$26

More info: 480-921-5700 or childsplayaz.org

All-Arizona singers, musicians to perform Christmas concert in Tempe

BY PAUL MARYNIAK

A dozen musicians and singers who participated in the production of a special Arizona Christmas album will perform today to mark the released of their CD.

Titled “Christmas from the Heart,” the CD features recording artists from throughout Arizona playing a collection of traditional and new holiday songs. Most of them will appear at the concert at 2 p.m.at King of Glory Lutheran Church, 2085 E. Southern Ave., Tempe. Tickets are $15 at the door.

The recording was a year-long labor of love by Sherry Finzer, a self-described “composer, musician, performer and recording artist specializing in New Age, contemporary instrumental and chill music.”

A flutist by training, the Ahwatukee mother of two also has her own label, called Heart Dance Records ( heartdancerecords.com), which she started in 2009.

She began working on “Christmas from the Heart” last year because “I wanted to put together a project that would encompass other artists in these genres that lived in the state of Arizona.”

It started with her reaching out to musicians across the state. Then she sought out sponsors to help defray production costs. And then she wanted to find a charitable organization that part of the album’s proceeds could be donated to.

All three missions were

accomplished.

“I look at this beyond the recording itself,” Finzer said. “I look at this as building a team of musicians who all have the similar goal in mind: to create music that helps to heal the mind, body and spirit.

“It has been a learning experience for me as well with getting contracts together for each artist, making sure the I’s are dotted and T’s crossed,” she added. “I then needed to gather all of the recordings, have them mastered by a top-notch mastering engineer so that each track would blend in color and sound with each other.”

Finzer also found a charity, Music as Therapy, a nonprofit started by Tatum Lynn Stolworthy, a Tempe resident and Corona del Sol High School junior who is a singer and dancer.

Her nonprofit supports organizations that use music to help children and teens who are in crisis or have special needs. Tatum sings “Ave Maria” on the album and will be performing at the concert.

Finzer connected with the group after Kari Stolworthy, Tatum’s mother, contacted her.

“She said she had been searching on line for music therapy places and my website kept popping up. I am not sure why other than I describe my music as healing music,” Finzer said.

After a “lovely conversation,” Finzer decided that Music as Therapy was a good “fit for us with what our music is

Sherry Finzer is a self-described “composer, musician, performer and recording artist specializing in New Age, contemporary instrumental and chill music.”

about.”

Finzer’s work was hardly finished even after the album was completed because she had to approach retailers about stocking the CD.

“That is a very difficult task with the sales of physical CDs diminishing because of digital downloads,” she said. “At the same time, I was working

on booking ‘Christmas from the Heart’ showcases, which is another very difficult task. You must find a venue willing to work with you, and plan for each show accordingly because set-up, play time and number of musicians for each show is different.”

Besides the Tempe concert, Finzer also will present another at 7 p.m. Dec. 16 at Esperanza Lutheran Church, 2601 E. Thunderhill Place, Ahwatukee.

Besides Finzer and Stolworthy, other artists who will be performing are Amy Faithe, Amber Norgaard, Art Patience, Chris Burton Jácome, Jocelyn Obermeyer, John Calvert, Louis Landon, Nathan Tsosie, Darin Mahoney, Thano and Lolo, and Tom Moore.

Despite the hard work that she put into the album, Zinzer is happy with the outcome, partly because she feels so strongly about music.

“I believe in what music can do to make a difference in someone’s life,” she said. “It is challenging every day, but I enjoy getting up each morning and rising to that challenge. When I receive an email from someone telling me how my music has helped them in some way, it really helps me to keep forging ahead, and I know that I am here to do what I was intended to do.

“There is so much competition out there,” she added. “It is tough to get people to take a listen. Once they do though, they are usually very moved by what they hear, not only with my music, but with the other artists on my label.”

Carebear Preschool At Fulton Ranch

Journey keyboardist explores his Christian side on new album

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Journey keyboardist Jonathan Cain sees the humor in his life; a rock musician who leads worship services with a pastor wife.

“God has a sense of humor, being a rock star with a preacher,” Cain said via telephone from a tour stop in Texas.

But that doesn’t diminish his relationship with wife Paula White-Cain, with whom he lives in Orlando, Florida. She is well known, having delivered the benediction at the Republication National Convention this year.

“I was very proud,” said Cain of his wife of two years. “It’s the first time a woman has ever done it.”

Cain is stepping out from his home for a tour that comes to The Pool at Talking Stick Resort on Saturday, Nov. 19. He’s admittedly a little leery about the show, with bandmates singer Arnel Pineda, guitarist Neal Schon, bassist Ross Valory and drummer Steve Smith.

“As long as we don’t get wet, we’ll be fine,” he said in jest. “They just can’t throw Arnel in the pool, although he might jump in at the end. Seriously, Arnel has been a blessing. He’s such a pure soul. He loves his family. He loves God. He loves our music. He makes us better.”

The rare intimate show is important to Cain because his brother lives in the Valley.

“My younger brother has made Scottsdale his home,” said Cain, who is celebrating his 35th year with Journey. “My father and mother lived there until they passed. I moved them to Scottsdale from Chicago. I’m also friends with Danny Zelisko, who’s a philanthropist. He’s a collector of sports memorabilia and rock memorabilia.

He’s really a dear friend.”

Sports and music are two hobbies or jobs that are also important to Cain, the lyricist and composer behind the unintentional sports anthem “Don’t Stop Believin’.” A fan of the Chicago Cubs, Cain was looking forward to attending a World Series game or two, events that were on his bucket list.

“I’m a Chicago guy,” Cain said during the last week of October, just as the World Series was about to start. “I doubt they’ll play ‘Don’t Stop Believin’ at Wrigley Field, though. That’s the San Francisco Giants song.

“They will play Journey now and then. It’s amazing to have our songs played at sporting events. I love it because I love sports. It’s just an honor.”

Playing music, in general, is an honor for him as well. Journey is considering working on a symphony album. In late October, Cain released a Christian solo album, “What God Wants to Hear.”

“I’ve been doing praise and worship for the last year at New Destiny Christian Center,” he said of the Apopka, Florida congregation. “My songs were ready to go and I decided to pull the trigger. It’s just in time for Christmas.

“We’re going to rock for Jesus.”

IF YOU GO

What: Journey

When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19

Where: The Pool at Talking Stick, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale

Cost: $45-$250 Information:800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com

Phoenix Boys Choir performing Dec. 4

The Phoenix Boys Choir is performing 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4, at Gold Canyon United Methodist Church, 6640 S. Kings Ranch Rd., Gold Canyon. The choir has performed with the Phoenix Symphony, the Phoenix Chorale and the Arizona Opera. They are directed by Georg Stangelberger, their artistic director since 1999, and former principal choir director of the Vienna Boys Choir.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $5 for students in advance at Canyon Rose Storage, 6405 S. Kings Ranch Rd., Gold

Canyon, and at the Apache Junction Chamber of Commerce office on the Apache Trail. Tickets may also be ordered via PayPal at gcac1.com. Adult tickets at the door are $30.

The Gold Canyon Arts Council, a nonprofit organization, promotes the performing and visual arts through its Canyon Sounds Artist Series. The council is supported in part by grants from the Arizona Commission on the Arts, WESTAF, the National Endowment for the Arts, local corporations and businesses.

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Chandler photographer among the winners of wildlife photo contest

Peggy Kniffin of Chandler was among the 12 photographers who won a wildlife photo competition, co-sponsored by the Arizona Game and Fish Department and Arizona Highways.

Kniffin was one of 180 photographers who entered photos in the competition. She captured a photo of a snowy egret.

The winner was Bryan Keil of Scottsdale.

“I was watching this coyote flipping mice, early one morning at Gilbert Water Ranch,” he said. Keil didn’t just stumble across the scene: The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch has a devoted following among wildlife photographers, and many people knew coyotes were hunting there. Keil was there, putting in the hours required to capture a special shot.

To this opportunity, he brought the tools of his trade: a good eye, time, concentration and a long lens. He took quite a few photos as the coyote hunted, but didn’t check his camera until after it left. He knew right away that this was special.

“I was excited about this one.”

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Keil, who also earned four honorable mentions in this year’s contest for his masterful bird images, studies wildlife behavior to improve his photography.

“That way, you’re ready when the moment comes,” he said.

Thirteen winning images are published in a full-size 2017 wildlife calendar in the November and December 2016 issue of Arizona Wildlife Views magazine, on sale now. Arizona Highways magazine will publish the best-in-show photo in 2017.

Other winners were: Craig Miller,

Payson: bald eagle; Kathleen LaRose, Tucson: bobcat; Archie Tucker, Goodyear: bison; Yasmina Parker, Mesa: least bittern; Guy Schmickle, Sedona: black-chinned hummingbird; Tim Van Den Berg, Tucson: northern rough-winged swallow; Jole Guthery, Flagstaff: golden-mantled ground squirrel; Thomas Hansen, Phoenix: Western diamond-backed rattlesnake; Kenneth Wayne Don, Tucson: pallid bat; Bruce Sitko, Lakeside: Gould’s turkey; and Tam Ryan, Mesa: pyrrhuloxia.

Given the strength and diversity of this year’s 1,900-plus entries, the judges singled out 38 more images from 27 talented photographers for honorable mention. These are also featured in Arizona Wildlife Views magazine. The names of honorable mention photographers are posted on the photo contest’s Web page, azgfd.gov/ photocontest. News about next year’s contest will also be posted there when it becomes available.

Arizona Game and Fish welcomes new subscribers to Arizona’s award-winning magazine about wildlife and outdoor recreation. The regular price is $8.50 for six issues (one year), but through Dec. 31, subscriptions are on sale at $7 for seven issues. They can be purchased at azgfd. gov/magazine.

Those who subscribe by Dec. 31 will be sure to receive the calendar issue showing this year’s winners and honorable mentions. The calendar issue is also sold at all Game and Fish offices for $3 starting in mid-November.

ON STAGE

“Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” through Saturday, Nov. 26, HCT. Based upon the Academy Award-nominated 1954 film, this musical tells the story of the headstrong Adam Pontipee who comes to a small mountain town in search of a good wife. When he meets the headstrong Milly, it changes his life.

Sawyer Brown, Saturday, Nov. 19, HCPA. With 23 albums, more than 50 chart singles, and CMA, ACM and CMT awards, Sawyer Brown has been called the “Rolling Stones of Country Music.”

Tim and Myles, Sunday, Nov. 20, HCPA. Tim and Myles Thompson are father and son singer-songwriters who have recently performed at the Montreal Jazz Festival, Walnut Valley Festival, Sisters Folk Festival, Pagosa Folk ‘n Bluegrass Festival, and Chet Atkins Festival, as well as opened for Spyro Gyra, Don Williams, Mountain Heart, Richard Elliot, and Wynonna and the Big Noise. Their original material has also been featured as bumper music on NPR, Casper’s Haunted Christmas CD, and the Flip Video Camera software.

John Cleese and Eric Idle, Monday, Nov. 21, MAC. The founding members of Monty Python pioneered an irreverent, absurdist sensibility that is emulated by comics around the world. As individuals, they have written, performed and produced critically acclaimed shows such as “Spamalot,” “A Fish Called Wanda,” “Fawlty Towers” and “The Rutles.” Sold out.

Maynard James Keenan, Friday, Nov. 25, MAC. Readings from and discussions about his authorized biography, “A Perfect Union of Contrary Things” and each attendee will receive a copy of the book and a CD. Sold out.

Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox, Sunday, Nov. 27, MAC. A genre-busting, rotating collective of musicians and vocalists who reimagine modern pop hits in the style of jazz, ragtime and swing classics of the 1920s to 1950s.

Chandler Symphony with Jim Curry, Saturday, Dec. 10, HCPA. Curry opens the

show performing his John Denver holiday tribute followed by 18-time Emmy nominee Lee Holdridge conducting the symphony.

Straight No Chaser, Saturday, Dec. 31, MAC. Formed years ago while students at Indiana University, the group has reemerged as a phenomenon with a massive fan base, more than 20 million YouTube views and numerous national TV appearances.

Pink Martini, Wednesday, Jan. 11, SCPA. An international phenomenon performing a retro-hip, multilingual repertoire throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas, featuring a dozen musicians who find inspiration in virtually every musical genre, from Baroque to disco.

Storm Large, Saturday, Jan. 14, SCPA. A finalist on the CBS show “Rock Star: Supernova,” she made her debut as guest vocalist with the band Pink Martini in 2011, singing four sold-out concerts with the National Symphony Orchestra at the

Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

The Marvelous Wonderettes, Tuesday, Jan. 17, to Tuesday, April 18, HCT. This smash off-Broadway hit takes you to the 1958 Springfield High School prom, where we meet four girls with hopes and dreams as big as their crinoline skirts who serenade us with classic ’50s hits including “Lollipop,” “Dream Lover,” “Stupid Cupid” and “Lipstick on Your Collar.”

Roots & Boots Tour, Friday, Jan. 27, CCA. Country music with Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw and Collin Raye.

Neil Sedaka with The Phoenix Symphony, Friday, Feb 3, MAC. His impressive 50year career ranges from being one of the first teen pop sensations of the ’50s, a songwriter for himself and other artists in the ’60s, and a superstar in the ’70s.

yMusic, Friday, Feb. 3, SCPA. A group of six New York City instrumentalists flourishing in the overlap between the pop and classical worlds, with virtuosic execution and unique configuration (string trio, flute, clarinet and trumpet) that has attracted the attention of highprofile collaborators and more recently inspired an expanding repertoire of original works by some of today’s foremost composers.

Glenn Miller Orchestra, Sunday, Feb. 26, CCA. With its unique jazz sound, the resilient orchestra was formed in 1956 and has been touring consistently since, playing an average of 300 live dates a year all around the world.

Art Garfunkel: In Close-Up, Saturday, March 11, CCA. Grammy Award winner, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame honoree and Golden Globe-nominated singer and actor with a live set that encompasses his solo hits, Simon and Garfunkel songs and cuts from his favorite songwriters— Jimmy Webb, Randy Newman and A.C. Jobim.

The Doo Wop Project, Saturday, March 18, CCA. A journey from foundational tunes of groups like the Crests, Belmonts and Flamingos through their influences on the sounds of Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, and The Four Seasons all the way to Michael Jackson, Jason Mraz and Amy Winehouse.

Aida, Thursday, May 18 to Saturday, July 1, HCT. Winner of four 2000 Tony Awards, Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida is an epic tale of love, loyalty and betrayal, chronicling the love triangle between Aida, a Nubian princess stolen from her country, Amneris, an Egyptian princess, and Radames, the soldier they both love.

ON STAGE VENUE INDEX

CCA—Chandler Center for the Arts 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler Tickets: 480-782-2680, chandlercenter.org

HCPA—Higley Center for the Performing Arts 4132 E. Pecos Rd., Gilbert Tickets: 480-279-7194, higleycenter.org

HCT—Hale Centre Theatre 50 West Page Ave., Gilbert Tickets: 480-497-1181, www. haletheatrearizona.com

MAC—Mesa Arts Center One E. Main St., Mesa Tickets: 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter.com

SCPA—Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale Tickets: 480-499-8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org

Holiday Events

DOWNTOWN CHANDLER

The Tumbleweed Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights

Dec. 3, Event runs

4:30-9 p.m. Parade starts at 7 p.m.

Santa’s House

Dec. 8, 5-7 p.m.

Dec. 10, 12-5 p.m.

Dec. 15, 4-6 p.m.

Dec. 17, 12-5 p.m.

Dec. 22, 4-7 p.m.

The Ugly Holiday Sweater Chandler Art Walk

Dec. 16, 6-9:30 p.m.

Caribbean Christmas Half Marathon and 5k Race Dec. 18 IN

Holiday Bazaar Chandler Farmers Market

Dec. 22, 3-7 p.m.

Family Flicks Watch Elf in the park for free! Dec. 22, 6-9 p.m.

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Spiritual Reflections

December is a time of faith

BY RABBI IRWIN WIENER

December is the time of Hanukkah and Christmas. Each year interfaith couples agonize whether the celebration of these holidays are religious adventures or commercial enterprises. There is a tugging at the heart strings because respect for one another’s faith is the foundation of the commitment made as vows were said and families were joined. And each year articles are written about celebrations, identifications, to ensure that the spiritual aspect of the season is not a cause for concern.

Couples of different faiths discuss this with me as they prepare to fulfill their pledge to one another. Sometimes there are anxieties which surface because of outside influences. It is a time of “light,” whether the lights on the tree or the glow from the candles on the Menorah. After all it is also a time of darkness. The days are short. The nights are long. It is cold and the harshness of winter is fast approaching. Life withers; the life of trees and flowers and people. We sleep,

as does nature. It is the darkest time of the year.

The one brightness that illuminates our lives is the breath of love. We have searched for the mate that makes us whole. The greatest glory is in knowing we have found the one. This is the essence of love and is the thread that helps us learn from one another and respect one another which in turn translates into tolerance for belief and faith. This is what this season is all about.

Hanukkah is a time of dedication (as the word implies) and Christmas is a time of renewal. They are synonymous because renewal gives us the opportunity to rededicate ourselves to each other and the celebrations of life. The light of the Hanukkah candles and the brightness of the star as described in the Christmas story enable us to use this beacon toward an understanding of each other. We cannot recapture the past. But we can use it to ensure the future. Religious understanding leads to

Church seeks community’s help to reach goal of 8,000 food boxes

Sun Valley Community Church (SVCC) will have a food drive through Dec. 17 to benefit The Salvation Army

The food drive is part of the Valley church’s Out of the Box program, which has helped feed 15,000 families throughout the Valley in four years. This year SVCC wants to expand the program to provide 8,000 boxes, which feed multiple members of a family, and is seeking individuals and groups to help support the program.

To participate in the drive, individuals can pick up a box at one of SVCC’s five campuses, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, or during one of the worship services. SVCC will provide the box as well as a list of food items needed. When the food boxes are returned, SVCC will deliver them to The Salvation Army. For a list of SVCC, visit sunvalleycc.com.

Businesses, school, associations and groups of any size are encouraged to participate. SVCC will deliver and pick up multiple boxes.

“Sun Valley Community Church has made it simple to help by providing the box, the list of needed items, and getting the filled boxes back to us,” said Major Nancy Dihle, Valley of the Sun program coordination for The Salvation Army.

“The Salvation Army is grateful to Sun Valley Community Church and their

ongoing partnership. We are able to feed tens of thousands during the holidays only because of strong community support and the generosity of donors. We hope those able to help, participate in SVCC’s food drive.”

Those interested in participating should contact Kim Corder or Ian Johnston at outoftheboxfooddrive@ gmail.com for locations, questions and more information.

The Salvation Army has been serving the Phoenix area without discrimination since 1893. Through a broad array of programs, the 12 Valley community centers provide services to the homeless, working poor, children, addicted, elderly, and abused. The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. For more information on services, please visit salvationarmyphoenix.org.

Sun Valley began as a church plant in 1990 in Chandler. Over the years, SVCC has grown into a large multi-site church in the Phoenix area. There are five campuses in Casa Grande, East Mesa, Gilbert, Tempe and Queen Creek. Together, nearly 7,000 people attend a Sun Valley Campus each weekend. Sun Valley has been featured in a book by Leadership Network about church mergers: “Better Together: Making Church Mergers Work,” and has been named by Outreach Magazine as one of the 100 fastest-growing churches in the nation.

Author to visit Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation Sisterhood

religious freedom and is the clarion call for all people throughout history. Every grasp at religious freedom has had as its foundation the spark from the season of lights. That part of history may be no more but the flicker of it’s meaning is within us by what we do and who we are and the appreciation of our individuality.

This time of the year is also a time of connection—to our beliefs, the togetherness, to building a viable relationship. Commitment to each other is the affirmation of love and respect. It is the completion of oneness because love knows no religion but rather the faith in God, the faith in each other.

Yes, it is December and rather than agonizing, I encourage couples of different faiths to focus on relationships and dreams and visions of continuity. It isn’t easy. There can be anguish on the part of family and friends. But the path to a successful relationship is still respect. Respect is the glue that keeps a relationship strong and lasting.

Gospel 4 Life Church set to feed ‘the city’ this Thanksgiving

Gospel 4 Life Church’s congregation is excited about the goodness and greatness of God during this holiday season. So it is hosting its 11th annual Thanksgiving Citywide Feast, led by Bishop Tyronne Stowe and Elisa Stowe.

The feast is from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 23, at Chandler Christian Community Center, 345 S. California St., Chandler. For more information, call 480-343-0022.

Activities abound at Sun Lakes United Methodist Church

Sun Lakes United Methodist Church is celebrating the holidays and mourning loss by hosting a slew of activities through the holidays.

The Sun Lakes United Methodist Church Choir will celebrate the birth of our Savior at 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, and 8:15 a.m. and 10 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 11.

“This beautiful new cantata, titled ‘Invitation to a Miracle,’ and written by Joseph Martin, explores the miracles and wonders of the Christmas season,” said Music Director Cris Evans. “The Sun Lakes UMC Choir will be accompanied by a 20-piece orchestra. It promises to be a meaningful program of both new and familiar Christmas carols.”

You do not have to grieve alone

Grieving the passing of a loved one is difficult, and it affects all areas of life, including physical well-being.

Grief counselors at Sun Lakes United Methodist Church are hosting GriefShare from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Wednesdays from Jan. 11 to March 22. It meets in room three of the Education Building at Sun Lakes United Methodist Church.

Each lesson is self-contained, so the grieving can come as often as they like. The class registration fee of $15 covers the cost of the workbook. Register online

at sunlakesumc.org or at the church office. For more information, call Pastor Jean at 480-895-8766.

Free holiday stress workshop

Sun Lakes UMC Counseling Services will also offer a complimentary workshop called “Managing Stress During the Holidays,” at the church’s Education Building from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 22.

“Stress can lessen holiday enjoyment and hurt your health,” said Deb Ralston, LPC and staff counselor for Sun Lakes UMC Counseling Services.

“Being realistic, planning ahead and seeking support can help ward off stress and depression,” she added.

Ralston will discuss “Your Stress Response and Taking Care of Yourself;” and “Holiday Planning to Reduce Stress and Enjoy the Season.”

Sun Lakes United Methodist Church has offered counseling services to the congregation and the community since April. Its mission is to provide quality, affordable counseling services to individuals, couples and families.

To RSVP for the workshop, call Ralston at the church office at 480-895-8766. Sun Lakes UMC is located at 9248 E. Riggs

Sun Lakes.

Spiritual Connections

Call ahead to confirm information, as details occasionally change after print. If you have a recurring monthly support group or meeting you would like listed in Spiritual Connections, email complete details to news@santansun.com.

SUNDAYS

Celebration Service

10:30 a.m. Sundays

All with peaceful beliefs are welcome to this inclusive, loving, thriving UNITY Community. Join the group at 10 a.m., proceeding the service, for fellowship. Youth and toddlers meet during service. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798, www.interfaith-community.org

Kids’ Sunday School

10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Sundays

Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800

Lift Your Spirit

10 a.m. Sundays

Hear inspirational messages and music.

Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church

7:30 a.m. daybreak contemplative worship

9 a.m. traditional worship and choral music 11 a.m. contemporary worship with live Christian rock band. There is also a service at 12 p.m. Wednesdays.St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 901 W. Erie St., Chandler. Info: (480) 899-7386, www.saintmatthewschurch.org.

MONDAYS

The Art of Parenting

7:30 p.m. Mondays

Six-session course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute and presented by Rabbi Mendy Deitsch

of Chabad of the East Valley, designed to help parents at all levels of Jewish knowledge develop their own parenting philosophies and techniques. Cost is $99. Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Dr., Chandler. Info: (480) 855-4333, rabbi@chabadcenter.com

TUESDAYS

Silva Class and Meditation

6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays

Learn the Silva method with Lois Britland. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd, Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800.

Career Connectors

8:30 a.m. to noon, fourth Tuesday of month

Nonprofit organization connecting professionals in career transition to high-quality resources and hiring companies; each event includes professional career speakers with presentations on relevant job search topics, three to four hiring companies, networking, resume help, career coaches, LinkedIn coaches and business portraits. Central Christian Church, Gilbert Campus/Student Center, 965 E. Germann Rd., Gilbert. Info: www.careerconnectors.org, (480) 442-5806

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

7:15 a.m. Tuesdays

Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals. Crackers and Co. Café, 535 W. Iron Ave., Mesa. Info: Maia, (480) 425-0624, www.christianbusinessnetworking.com

Christian Business Networking, Chandler

Bi-Monthly Chapter

7:45 a.m. second and fourth Tuesdays each month

Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals. Chandler Christian Church, Building B, Room 202, 1825 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler. Info: Maia, (480) 425-0624, www.christianbusinessnetworking.com

HOPE—Help Overcoming Painful Experiences

7 p.m. Tuesdays

Free weekly small group sessions helping people overcome emotional pain caused by divorce, grief, addictions and more; free child care for children ages 10 and younger. Desert Springs

Church, 19620 S. McQueen Rd., Room 106, Chandler. Info: hope4all@comcast.net, www.helpovercomingpainfulexperiences.org

Shalom Chapter of Hadassah 11:30 a.m. second Tuesday of each month Iron Oaks (Oakwood) Clubhouse, 24218 S. Oakwood Blvd., Sun Lakes. Info: Cyril, (480) 802-0243; Kathy, (480) 895-5194; Shirley, (480) 883-9159; or Joyce, (480) 802-4902.

Monthly Women’s Fellowship 6:15 p.m. fourth Tuesday of each month

The monthly fellowship Bible study with the East Valley Chapter of Christian Women’s Devotional Alliance “ministers to women’s spiritual, emotional and physical needs.”

Best Western-Mezona 250 W. Main St., Mesa. Info: (480) 232-3773

Narcotics Anonymous (Nar-Anon)— Chandler Chapter

7 p.m. Tuesdays and ThursdaysTwelve-step program for families and friends of addicts. Faith Community Church, 1125 N. Dobson Rd., Chandler. Info: www.nar-anon.org

WEDNESDAYS

Panic Healing

7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Wednesday

Receive a 15-minute energetic tune-up. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800.

Spirituality

Gong Meditation and Yoga Nidra

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. third Wednesday

Presented by Will Zecco, gong master. Bring yoga mat, blanket and pillow as desired. Love offerings will be accepted.

Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798 or www.interfaith-community.org.

“A Course in Miracles” with the Rev. Julianne Lewis

1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. Wednesdays

The weekly group is an interactive time of learning and sharing, appropriate for course beginners, as well as long-time students of ACIM. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798, www.interfaith-community.org

The Art of Parenting

9:30 a.m. Wednesdays

Six-session course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute and presented by Rabbi Mendy Deitsch of Chabad of the East Valley, designed to help parents at all levels of Jewish knowledge develop their own parenting philosophies and techniques. Cost is $99. Chandler Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler. Info: (480) 855-4333 or rabbi@chabadcenter.com

Grief Care

6:45 p.m. Wednesdays

A place to come share your feelings or just listen to others as we try to navigate through our grief. You don’t have to do it alone. Epiphany Lutheran Church, South Campus, old church building, 800 W. Ray Rd., Room 325, Chandler. Info: griefcareaz@gmail.com

Healing Prayer and Meditation Circle

7 to 8:15 p.m. Wednesdays

Guided prayer, affirmations and visualization for those facing physical, emotional, mental or spiritual issues in their lives. Love offering requested. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800

Meditation Moments

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. third Wednesday of the month

An interactive time of learning and sharing, appropriate for course beginners, as well as long time students of ACIM. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798 or www. interfaith-community.org

St. Mathew’s Episcopal Church

12 p.m. Healing and Eucharist service

St. Mathew’s Episcopal Church, 901 W. Erie St., Chandler. Info: (480) 899-7386, www.saintmatthewschurch.org.

THURSDAYS

Women’s Empowerment & Awakening

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. third Thursday

Release negative beliefs. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800.

A Course in Miracles

7 p.m. first, second and fourth Thursday Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800.

Empower Model for Men

6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays

The three-class series is taught by author Scott E. Clark and designed to offer practical wisdom and tools to help men shift into their higher consciousness, based on the seven-step empower model detailed in Clark’s book, “Empower Model for Men.” Cost is $85. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800

Real Love Support Group

6:30 p.m. Thursdays

For those who have a desire to acquire more “real love” and in the process find great personal happiness and more fulfilling relationships. Love offering requested. Unity of Tempe, formerly Unity of Chandler, 1222 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 103, Tempe. Info: (480) 792-1800

FRIDAYS

Temple Havurat Emet

7:30 p.m. first Friday of each month Lecky Center, Robson Library. 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. Info: www.templehavuratemet.org

Grief

10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. every Friday

Each session presents a 45-minute videotape of expertise of counselors, pastors and others who have coped with grief and understand its effects and the steps toward healing. Each week a different stand-alone topic is presented as part of 13 sessions. Discussion follows, but participation is entirely voluntary. Call (480) 895-1088 for information. The program is offered at First Baptist Church Sun Lakes.

SATURDAYS

Spirit Night—Psychic Fair

4 p.m. to 8 p.m. third Saturday of each month

The “Lightworkers” offer a wide range of services including Reiki, facials, mediums, drumming, tarot, angel messages and more. Services range from $20 to $30. Cash only. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: www.interfaith-community.org; heatherposey70@gmail.com.

Spirit Night – A Holistic Healing Festival

1 p.m. to 6 p.m. third Saturday of the month

Lightworkers offer a wide range of services including Reiki, facials, mediums, drumming, tarot, angel messages and more. Services range from $20 to $30. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: www.interfaith-community.org or heatherposey70@gmail.com

Unity Drumming and Healing Circle

6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. fourth Saturday of each month

Beginner, expert drummers and observers welcome. Bring snack, appetizer or dessert to share. Love donation accepted. Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798, www.interfaith-community.org.

OTHER

Forever Marriage Ministries Marriage Restoration Support Group for Wives Offers hope to the hurting Valleywide through one-on-one Biblical marriage teaching, God-honoring wife discipleship and marriage restoration mentoring to wives seeking God’s will in the restoration of marriage. Info: Lisa (602) 377-8847, marriage@lisacmyers.com, www.forevermarriageministries.com, www.facebook.com/forevermarriages.

Jewish Women International, Avodah Chapter 1581

Monthly luncheon. Social Box Eateries, 1371 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler. RSVP: (480) 802-9304, (480) 655-8812

Moms in Prayer International

A group of mothers who meet one hour each week to intercede for their children and schools through prayer. Info: Liane Wright, (480) 699-7887, www.momsinprayer.org.

Bible Study

Meets twice a month

Members of the Women’s Life Group study the Bible and discuss how the lessons can relate to their lives. Sun Lakes United Church of Christ, Chandler. Info: Jan Olson at (480) 802-7457 or Joy King (480) 588-1882.

East Valley Jewish Couples Club

Offers once-a-month social activities such as dining, movies and plays for Jewish couples in the 45- to 65-year-old age range. Info: Melissa, (480) 785-0744, beadlover@cox.net

Let the SanTan Sun News help you publicize your church or temple’s events and activities in the Spirituality section by emailing details to news@santansun.com. Include a brief description of the event, times, days, dates, cost or free, if registration is required, venue, address, publishable phone number, website if applicabwle and contact information for verification purposes. We welcome photos, which must be 300 dpi JPEGs or taken on a digital camera on the “best” or “highest quality” setting. Information is due 10 days prior to publication date. Submission does not guarantee placement.

Planning a new business in Chandler?

Check in with the Chandler Chamber of Commerce for help.

www.chandlerchamber.com

CONCRETE

CONCRETE WORK

Patios, Driveways, Sidewalks, All Concrete Needs. 25 years experience. Competitive prices. FREE Estimates. Dan 480-516-8920 - Jason 480-243-7779.

HOME REPAIRS

ALL HONEY-DO LISTS!

General Handyman Services. One Call, We Do It All! Owner does all work. Free Estimates with Pride & Prompt Service. Licensed, Bonded, Insured. ROC 118198. S&I General Contracting, Inc. Steve 602-339-4766.

GARY’S HANDYMAN SERVICE

Experienced Home Repairs: Electrical - Ceiling Fans, Lights, Etc. Plumbing - Garbage Disposal Install. Painting (minor), Drywall Repair (minor). Most all repairs. All Honey-Do Lists. Reliable and Prompt. Call or Text Gary at Cell 714-412-1762

UNIVERSAL HOME REPAIR

Small projects, house maintenance and renovations, house/apartment preparation for new tenants. Air conditioning repairs. 480-213-4005 jacekwrona@cox.net

HOME SERVICES

GLASS, MIRRORS, SHOWER DOORS

Family Owned with 33 years EXPERIENCE. Shower and tub enclosures. Install new one or repair what you have, insulated units, mirrored closet doors, window glass, mirrors, patio door glass, table tops to protect furniture. QUALITY SERVICE at Competitive Prices. FREE Estimates. WESLEY’S GLASS & MIRROR Call 480-306-5113, wesleysglass.com.

HOUSE CLEANING

CLEAN CASA CLEANING SERVICES

Reliable house cleaning done right the 1st time!! One-time, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, move-in/move-out, etc. Same 2-person crew every time at your house! We bring all our own supplies and equipment. Will customize. References. Take $10 off your first cleaning. Call today!! Amy 602-284-3579.

MOTHER & DAUGHTER TEAM

Been cleaning houses for 10 years. Have great experience. We do windows. Also, have move-out specials & Senior Discounts. 480-438-1757 or 480-395-4522.

PROFESSIONAL HOUSE CLEANING

35 Years Experience - 20 years in the Valley. Free estimates, local references. Move-out cleaning services available. All work done by non-smoking meticulous owner. Call Shirley 480-433-4945

SIMPLY GRAND CLEANING SERVICE

House cleaning specialists offering weekly, biweekly, monthly, or one-time cleanings. Also, providing move-in/out cleaning service, windows and patios. We use GREEN environmentally friendly products. High quality services at a great price. Very dependable, insured and with excellent references. $10 off first service with mention of this ad. Call Reed for a free estimate 480-802-1992 or Email: contact@simplygrandcleaningaz.com

LANDSCAPING SERVICES

A+ SPRINKLER REPAIR SERVICE

18 years experience repairing and replacing valves, drip systems, wire troubleshooting & timers. All repairs! Honest and reliable. East Valley native. Call and compare prices! 602-826-4717 www.AplusSprinklerRepair.com

AZ LANDSCAPE & HAULING SERVICES

Complete landscape and property maintenance including clean ups, hauling, installations, sprinkler install, maintenance and repair, tree care, painting, handyman, etc. English speaking, dependable, Insured, SmartScape Certified, Free estimates. Valley wide 480-200-9598

HECTORS LAWN CARE

Owner/Operator Mowing, Edging, Trimming, Blowing, Weed Control, Fertilizer, Clean Ups, Overseeding. FREE Estimates- 480-636-0286

LANDSCAPING SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPE DESIGNER & CONTRACTOR

Get a unique design~Bella has 13 years of design experience & certs. partnered with a contractor with 30 years installation experience. Remodels, new installs, hourly idea visits, installation of plants, pavers, fire pits, irrigation etc... Please visit: Houzz.com/pro/bellafiorelandscapedesign/ bella-fiore-landscape-design for gallery and references.

Call 623-866-2501 email: bellafiorelandscapedesign@gmail.com

SPRINKLER & DRIP REPAIRS

Aqua Masters. System Checks, Troubleshooting, Repairs, Maintenance, Leak Detection, Low Pressure, Valves, Timers, Heads, System-Add-ons. Call 480-478-0073. 40+YRS EXPERIENCE. AquaMastersAz.com

MOVERS

IN OR OUT MOVERS

Professional, hardworking, excellent service. No hidden fees. Whether you are moving in or moving out LEAVE THE LIFTING TO US! Serving the East Valley. www.inoroutmoversphoenixmetro.com Call Terry at 602-653-5367

PAINTING SERVICES

A CUT ABOVE PAINTING, LLC

Your quality repaint specialist. Interior/Exterior. Epoxy Floors. Roof Coatings. Stained Concrete. New Construction. FREE ESTIMATES! References available. Owner will be on job. Commercial/Residential. 30 years experience. Licensed-Bonded-Insured-ROC 257167. MENTION this ad to receive 5% OFF! 480-244-9119

AZ HOME & PAINT SERVICES

Affordable interior and exterior painting for every budget. Power washing, drywall repair etc. Experienced, Dependable & Insured. Valleywide. Free Estimates. 480-200-9598

EAGLE RIDGE PAINTING, LLC

Interior repaint specialist, offering in-home color consulting for every job. Using only quality low VOC paints, brush-n-roll application, two coat coverage. Family owned and operated with over 25 years experience. ROC 296732 Bonded & Insured. Call Sue 480-825-2122

EAST VALLEY PAINTERS

Voted #1 Repaint Specialists! Clean, Friendly Crews. Interior/Exterior. Drywall Repairs. Textures. Concrete Staining. Pool Deck Coatings. Garage Floors. Free Estimates. All Credit Cards Accepted. ROC 153131. 480-688-4770

PAINTING SERVICES

SUNTECH PAINTING INC.

Gilbert/Chandler’s Trusted Painting Professionals. Residential/Commercial Painting Since 1987. Residential Exterior and Interior, Commercial Space/Professional Offices, Tenant Improvements. “Competitive Pricing With Our Same High Level of Quality”. Family Owned. FREE Estimates. ROC#155380 602-625-0599 suntechpainting@live.com

PLUMBING

ABC PLUMBING & ROOTER

CHANDLER/GILBERT *$50.00 OFF with this ad* *NO SERVICE CHARGE* 110% Guarantee*/ OWNER OPERATED Small & Large REPAIRS 24/7 Slab leak, water main, hot water heaters, & sewer repair specialist. Water softening specialist, water filters, and reverse osmosis. 100-year warranty on parts & labor. * BBB A+ Rating. BBB Ethics Award Winner. Chandler Chamber of Commerce Employer of Choice Award. *Call for details. 480-726-1600

CURE ALL PLUMBING

For all your plumbing needs! Free estimates and Senior Discounts! Water heaters, faucets, toilets, pipe leaks, garbage disposals, slab leaks, repiping, drain cleaning: Clogs, jetting, Camera inspection, locating. Water softeners, Reverse Osmosis systems. Sprinkler and Backflow repairs. Licensed, Bonded & Insured. Member of BBB. Cure All Plumbing 480-895-9838

POOL SERVICES

A CLEAR CHOICE POOL

Husband/Wife Team - Owner Operator. Pool/ Spa Service, Cleaning and Repair, Equipment Installation, Certified Pool Operator, Member IPSSA. East Valley Specialists. 480-369-4540 www.aclearchoicepools.com Many references Available. Licensed/Bonded/Insured ROC#283791

DM POOL SERVICE

And Estate Maintenance. Owner Operator. Weekly Pool Service. Equipment Repair. Filter Clean (all types). Household Repairs. Landscape Lighting. Many Other Services. $25 towards 1st Service or Repair. 480-295-2617. MyGoToPoolGuy.com

HENNESSY POOLS LLC

Tile Cleaning/Acid Wash. Vacation Service. Weekly Service & Repair. Filter Clean (All Types). Salt Systems. Sand Change. Green Pool Fix. FREE Estimates. Insured. $40 OFF Service, Repair or Filter Clean with Mention of this Ad. hennessypoolcare@yahoo.com, http://www.hennessypools.net/ 480-577-2719. Member of Home Advisor.

ROOFING

THE ROOF MEDICS

Residential/Commercial. Repairs and Reroofing. Tile, Shingles, Flat, Walk-Decks. Licensed, Bonded, Insured. ROC #256001, K-42. 480-284-7338. www.theroofmedics.com

SEWER AND DRAIN

MASTER SEWER ROOTER

480-705-7772 SERVICE NOW!! 110% Guaranteed/100 Year Warranty. OWNER Operated, (Licensed, Bonded, Insured). 20% OFF Seniors/Military. A+ Rating with BBB, Chandler, Gilbert, Phoenix, AZ award winning. If it’s plumbing, we do it! 24-hour flood restoration services. Financing approval in minutes with NO MONEY DOWN & ZERO INTEREST.

SCREENS

“MOBILE SCREENING”

Your Re-Screening Specialist. Bug Screens - Sun Screens, Patio Doors. New Screens Available. We Come To You! (480) 980-3321

SEWING MACHINE REPAIRS

SEWING MACHINE REPAIRS

You can watch while I repair your sewing machine in your home. Vintage or computerized. All makes. In business since 1968. Price includes trip & labor. Call John McAulay 480-897-0338.

WINDOW CLEANING

FISH WINDOW CLEANING

Fall is here and the HOLIDAYS are not far away, call 480-962-4688 now for your spot on our busy fall schedule. We will make your windows sparkle. Free onsite estimate, you do not have to be home.

JOHN’S WINDOW CLEANING

1-story $125 / 2-story $145 -inside and out up to 30 panes (add’l panes $2) Screens cleaned $2.50 per pane. Power Washing and Re-Screening available Same day Service (480) 201-6471

ADVERTISING THAT WORKS!

BUSINESS DIRECTORY ADS

Where to Eat

Chompie’s

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

www.chompies.com

Children 10 and younger receive one free item from the kids’ meal menu with an adult meal purchase of $8 or more on Tuesdays. Dine-in only.

Copper Still Moonshine Grill

2531 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101, Gilbert (480) 656-1476

www.CopperStillMoonshineGrill.com

Kids ages 10 and younger eat for free on Tuesdays with the purchase of an adult meal.

El Palacio Restaurant & Cantina

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

www.epfamilyrestaurants.com

Kids 12 and younger eat free when adult meals are purchased on Wednesdays.

Floridino’s Pizza & Pasta

590 N. Alma School Rd., Suite 35, Chandler (480) 812-8433, www.floridinos.net

Kids eat free from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesdays. Receive one free kids’ meal per $8 adult purchase when customers dine in only.

The Hungry Monk Andersen Fiesta Shopping Center, 1760 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler (480) 963-8000 www.hungrymonkaz.com

Kids eat free on Mondays with every purchase of an adult entrée.

NYPD Pizza

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

www.aznypdpizza.com

Kids eat free on Wednesday and Sunday after 4 p.m. with the purchase of a small or medium pizza. Dine in only.

Pittsburgh Willy’s

48 S. San Marcos Pl., Chandler (480) 821-3197

Every day, except Sunday breakfast, one child aged 10 and younger eats free with each paying adult, while additional kids eat for 50 % off, when they order from the Wee Willy menu only.

Planet Sub

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

www.planetsub.com

Kids eat free with a paying adult on Mondays.

WHERE KIDS EAT FREE

Social Box 1371 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler (480) 899-6735

www.socialboxeateries.com

Kids 12 and younger eat free from the kids’ menu with the purchase of an adult entrée on Mondays.

Sidelines Grill

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

www.sidelinesaz.com

Kids eat free from the kids’ menu after 4 p.m. Thursdays with the purchase of an adult entrée. Dine in only.

The SanTan Sun News now has a regular section, “Where kids eat free”. Restaurant owners, please email us details such as days of the week kids can eat free at your establishment, and what conditions apply, such as purchase of an adult meal, certain hours, etc. Include your restaurant name, address, phone and website and a contact name for verification. Readers, if you know of a location that has a kids-eat-free program, email us with the restaurant name, a phone and/or email for confirmation and details. Email information to KidsEatFree@santansun.com

Where to Eat

Stand-Out Holiday Side Dishes

During the holidays, the main dish usually steals the spotlight. This year, turn the tables in your own kitchen and make the sides the stars of the show with just a couple everyday ingredients.

Cream and milk are kitchen staples all

year long, but they become even more important during the holidays. Whether you are using DairyPure brand Heavy Whipping Cream to prepare delicious and creamy soups and sides—like garlic mashed potatoes or corn chowder—or

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6

3 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled,

cut into large chunks

1 1/2 cups DairyPure Heavy Whipping Cream or Half & Half

4 large garlic cloves

3 tablespoons butter

1 large leek, chopped

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

In 4-quart saucepan over high heat, heat salted water and potatoes to boiling. Reduce heat to low; simmer uncovered 20 minutes until potatoes are tender. Drain well.

In small saucepan over high heat, heat heavy whipping cream and garlic cloves to boiling. Simmer uncovered 15 minutes, until garlic is just soft.

In small skillet over medium heat, melt butter; add leek. Cook 5-8 minutes, until leek is tender, stirring occasionally.

In large bowl, mash potatoes with garlic-cream mixture, leek, salt and pepper until well-blended and smooth.

using half & half or milk in your guests’ coffee, they’re perfect and versatile ingredients to always have on-hand. Just make sure to save enough milk for Santa Claus.

The only farm-to-fridge dairy products backed by the exclusive Five-Point Purity

Promise, DairyPure creams and milk contain no artificial growth hormones, are tested for antibiotics, are continually quality tested to ensure purity, only come from cows fed a healthy diet and are coldshipped from your trusted dairy.

Creamy Corn Chowder

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Servings: 6

4 slices bacon, diced

3 stalks celery, finely chopped

2 small potatoes, peeled and diced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 green bell pepper, finely chopped

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons paprika

1 can (14 1/2 ounces) chicken broth

1 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups DairyPure Half & Half or Heavy Whipping Cream

1 can (15 1/4 ounces) corn, drained

In 4-quart saucepan over medium

heat, cook bacon until just crisp, stirring occasionally. With slotted spoon, remove to paper towels to drain. Reserve bacon. Leave 2 tablespoons bacon drippings in saucepan. Add celery, potatoes, onion and pepper, and cook until vegetables are just tender, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in flour and paprika; cook 1 minute.

Gradually stir in chicken broth and salt until mixture is smooth and thickened. Stir in half & half (or heavy whipping cream) and corn; over high heat, heat to boiling. Reduce heat to low; simmer uncovered 5-10 minutes, until mixture is heated through.

To serve, sprinkle each serving with reserved bacon.

Where to Eat

Entertaining with ease Impress guests with elegant appetizers

Bringing an element of elegance to your holiday celebration is easy when you start with party-pleasing ingredients, and great tasting food often starts with dairy.

Foods like milk, cheese and yogurt not only enhance the flavor and texture of dishes everyone loves, but they also add highquality nutrients to support the health and

Holiday Baked Brie

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 14 minutes

Servings: 8

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

8 ounces button mushrooms, sliced kosher salt ground black pepper

1 Brie round (8 ounces)

3 tablespoons honey

1/4 cup pomegranate arils

1/4 cup shelled pistachios

crackers or toasted bread

Heat oven to 350 F.

In large skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms; cook 8-10 minutes, or until deep golden brown, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper; remove from heat.

Place Brie on parchment paper-lined rimmed baking pan; drizzle with honey.

Transfer to oven and bake 5-7 minutes, or until inside of cheese is softened, but outside remains intact.

Transfer Brie to serving platter; top with pomegranate arils, pistachios and mushrooms.

Serve immediately with crackers or bread.

Parmesan Crisps with Basil and Sun-Dried Tomato

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Servings: 8

6 ounces shredded Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons sugar

8 basil leaves

8 sun-dried tomatoes, jarred

Heat oven to 375 F.

On baking sheet, make eight flat

circles out of 1 1/2 tablespoons cheese each. Bake cheese 5 minutes, or until just beginning to turn golden.

Using metal spatula, remove crisps from pan immediately, placing on rack or plate to cool.

Place vinegar and sugar in small saucepan and boil until mixture is reduced to about 1/4 cup and is thickened.

Top each crisp with 1 fresh basil leaf and 1 sun-dried tomato. Drizzle balsamic reduction over top.

well-being of your guests.

Each of these recipes features a different variety of cheese as the essential ingredient for success. These decadent, elegant apps,

which can be prepared in minutes, are sure to be party favorites. Find more ideas for serving up an elegant, yet simple menu your guests will love at MilkMeansMore.org.

Butternut Squash Queso Dip

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Servings: 10

12 ounces butternut squash puree, frozen

1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 finely diced red onion

1 clove garlic, minced

1 can (10 ounces) petite diced tomatoes and green chiles

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

Place unwrapped squash in microwave safe bowl and heat in microwave 5 minutes at 50 percent power, or until thawed.

In large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook 4-5 minutes, or until translucent. Add garlic and cook 1 minute, or until fragrant. Add squash, tomatoes, cumin and chili powder, and bring to boil over mediumhigh heat.

Reduce heat to low and add cheese. Stir until melted and serve immediately.

Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Mushroom Caps

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 25 minutes

Servings: 24

24 large mushrooms, stemmed and reserved

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 clove garlic, grated

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups chopped frozen spinach, thawed and drained

1 can ar tichoke hearts, roughly chopped

2 cups crumbled feta cheese

1/2 cup minced onion

1 pinch chili flakes

1 pinch minced scallions

Heat oven to 350 F and place mushroom caps

in single layer on baking sheet lined with foil.

Mince reserved mushroom stems and heat olive oil in large saute pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and mushroom stems to pan along with salt and pepper. Saute 2-3 minutes, or until mushrooms are softened. Add spinach and artichoke hearts to pan and cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and place mixture in large mixing bowl. Stir in feta cheese and onion. Adjust seasoning, to taste.

Using small cookie scoop, add 2 tablespoons filling to each mushroom cap. Bake mushrooms 20-25 minutes, or until mushroom caps are softened. Sprinkle with chili flakes and minced scallions to serve.