SanTan Sun News: Neighbors - Jan. 23, 2016

Neighbors

Wine auction honors spirit of passionate collector

A special wine auction on Saturday, Feb. 13, will honor the memory of a passionate, romantic wine collector who swept his wife off her feet throughout their courtship, engagement and marriage.

Richard Beine lived life to the fullest and took every opportunity to share his love for fine wine and art with his wife, Pam Beine Galloway. Since he died, his 400 bottles of classic, vintage and modern bottles of wine have been stored in the upscale, refrigerated Chandler CubeSmart storage unit, close to where Galloway, a Scottsdale resident, will be moving soon to be closer to her son.

Beine’s impressive collection will be auctioned on Feb. 13 during J. Levine Auction & Appraisal’s inaugural “Fostering Hope: A Fine Wine Auction,” which takes place from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the high-end auction house, 10345 N. Scottsdale Rd., in Scottsdale.

Guests will be treated to hors d’oeuvres, Valentine’s chocolates, wine tastings and mixing demonstrations and live music prior to the auction starting at 7 p.m. VIP sponsorship guests will have access to the auction house’s upstairs private wine tastings and demonstrations throughout the evening, among other sponsorship benefits. A portion of proceeds will benefit the nonprofit OCJ Foster Kids (Opportunity, Community & Justice for Kids).

principal and assistant superintendent.

“The fact that the auction has a charitable component drew me to the decision to sell Richard’s collection,” Galloway said. “Helping children’s causes was close to our hearts and continues to

Consignor Pam Beine Galloway holds a bottle of Justin Isosceles Reserve 2003 Paso Robles that will be part of the Feb. 13 “Fostering Hope: A Fine Wine Auction” at J. Levine Auction & Appraisal. A portion of proceeds will benefit OCJ Foster Kids. Photo by Cliff Gaines/A1 Studios.

As the auction’s consignor, Galloway is pleased that the event will benefit a charity that helps children. In her 38 years of working as an educator, she has served in various roles, including teacher, school

be important to me.”

Fifteen years ago, Galloway’s life changed when she met her future husband in California. “I knew a little bit about wine, but I never understood how to pair wine

Eklectic Pie set to open restaurant

Seasoned Valley restaurant owner Charlie Harmon started his career in the food and beverage industry at the age of 16 and has spent decades honing his craft. It was a natural progression for this serial restaurateur to create a concept that focuses on unique, tasty, fresh and of course, “eklectic” pizza. To that end, Harmon and his team opened the first Eklectic Pie in Mesa at 1859 S. Stapley Dr., Suite 106 in September.

The new concept in pizza has been so well received that in early February Harmon will open Eklectic Pie’s second location in Chandler at 2990 E. Germann Rd. The ribbon-cutting ceremony is at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 4. From Feb. 15

through Feb. 20, Eklectic Pie will celebrate its newest location with grand opening activities including:

• Tuesday, Feb. 16: Grand opening. Enjoy the Italian Street Fair theme décor while enjoying the dine-in special of the night—a 7-inch pizza, Caesar side salad and soft drink for just $8. The exclusive online special features an 11-inch pepperoni pizza for only $2.99.

• Wednesday, Feb. 17: Benefit night. First 20 customers win free pizza for a year (one pizza per month).

• Thursday, Feb. 18: Beer hosting party. First 20 customers win free pizza for a

Capture that New Orleans vibe at Creole Cajun Bistro

BY JUDI KING

It’s no longer necessary to travel all the way to New Orleans to get a taste of the Big Easy. Chef Eric Rachal serves up genuine “N’awlins” hospitality, culture and cuisine at his Creole Cajun Bistro in Chandler.

Born to a Cajun father and Creole mother, Rachal is the backbone of Cajun Creole. But, it is his grandmother he credits for his cooking skills. Known as “Big Red,” his grandmother, Marcell F. Jacques, was a chef and a caterer in New Orleans. Rachal was her assistant.

“I was raised in the kitchen, working sideby-side with her daily,” he said. “She is the inspiration for my cooking.”

As an adult, Rachal moved to California where he worked in an oil refinery. Because his job required him to live in the facility for periods of time, he always brought his big pot with him and cooked up jambalaya and gumbo for his co-workers, earning him the nickname, “Gumbo.”

“Nobody ever knew my name,” he said. “They would just say, ‘Hey Gumbo! What are you cooking tonight?’”

Rachal’s love of cooking eventually drew him back into the kitchen. He started his own Creole Cajun catering business in California, where his company flourished for years before he moved to Arizona.

BY SRIANTHI PERERA

If downtown Chandler is vibrant now, it’s nothing new. History shows that it has been a vibrant entertainment destination for generations.

“All throughout its history, Chandler does have its entertainment centers—ice cream parlors, pool halls, movie theaters—things

for people to do downtown,” said Chandler Museum Administrator Jody Crago. Crago, together with Curator of Collectors Nate Meyers, will relate the bygone stories of these buildings when they conduct a free, interactive walking tour from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6. It

and

de

1995. Consistency and excellence is prominent in each bottle and they are sought after because of this. The bottles range in worth from $100 to $400 and will be auctioned as part of J. Levine Auction & Appraisal’s “Fostering Hope: A Fine Wine Auction” on Saturday, Feb. 13, to benefit OCJ Foster Kids. Photo by Cliff Gaines/A1 Studios.

with food, how to chill it, and so forth. The most surprising thing I learned was how different a piece of meat or other food can taste depending on the wine served with it,” she said.

A former vice president for Gulfstream Aerospace Corp., Beine traveled the world to meet with princes, presidents and

other high-level dignitaries. Beine was a former board member of the Newport Beach chapter of Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, the world’s oldest and largest food and wine society, and he and Galloway would collect wine on their trips to add to their groupings and vertical collections.

“My most memorable trip with Richard was in 2005 when we visited Monaco and

Rare bottling of 25-year-old Glenlivet Royal Wedding Reserve Single Malt Whisky, bottled for the Royal Wedding of Charles and Diana in 1981. Hand numbered 742 out of 1,000, the script on the lid of the wooden presentation case reads: “A limited bottling of 25-year-old The Glenlivet Single Malt Scotch Whisky to mark the occasion of the wedding of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.” Year 1981. Estimated to be worth between $1,000 and $2,000, the Scotch Whisky will be auctioned as part of J. Levine Auction & Appraisal’s “Fostering Hope: A Fine Wine Auction” on Saturday, Feb. 13, to benefit OCJ Foster Kids.

Photo by Cliff Gaines/A1 Studios.

met with former Russian president, Mikhail Gorbachev,” Galloway said.

Perhaps the two most romantic memories Galloway has of their life together was when Beine proposed and when they got married.

“He knew my favorite color is pink, and he presented me with a 2000 bottle of Justin Paso Robles Isoceles, with a beautiful

proposal inscribed on the back of it and the ring was hiding in the bottle’s bottom well,” she said.

Not stopping there, he surprised her once again, researching wineries in Tuscany, Italy, for their wedding. They hired an Italian wedding planner, sent the invitations out with bottles of fine wine, and had a fairytale wedding outside of Verona, not far from where Romeo and Juliet fell in love.

Josh Levine, owner and auctioneer of J. Levine Auction & Appraisal, said he is honored to bring to auction such an elite, rare collection of fine wines.

“It’s truly a remarkable collection that wine enthusiasts and distinguished collectors alike will be interested in bidding on,” Levine said.

The auction will feature a variety of reds, whites, desserts and mixed blends as well as several noteworthy vertical collections.

“Guests can bid on a rare and noble 1967 Chateau d’Yquem Lur-Saluces Sauternes, estimated to be worth $1,500, or choose a more moderate 1988 Graham Vintage Port, known for its remarkable richness and firm tannic structure, with an estimated value of $60,” Levine said. “We’re also expecting a bidding frenzy for a rare Glenlivet Royal Wedding Reserve bottle of Scotch whisky from Princess Diana’s wedding.”

Advance tickets for the cocktail chic event are $100, or $125 at the door. A portion of proceeds will benefit OCJ Foster Kids. To purchase tickets or to learn more about VIP sponsorship opportunities, visit www.ocjwineauction.com. For information about J. Levine Auction & Appraisal, visit www.jlevines.com or call (480) 496-2212

EVENTS

JANUARY

23 Our Stories: Ancient Native American Astronomy, Sunset Library, 782-2751

3 Deana Martin – Honoring Dean Martin & Frank Sinatra, Center for the Arts, 782-2680

25 Spring Seed Swap, Sunset Library, 782-2800

25 City Council Study Session, Council Chambers, 782-2180

28 City Council Meeting, Council Chambers, 782-2180

29 Moscow Festival Ballet presents Don Quixote, Center for the Arts, 7822680

30 TEDxChandlerPublicLibrary, Downtown Library, 782-2831

30 Unity Walk, Tempe Town Lake, 782-2214

30 Fiesta Mexico-Americana with Los Lobos, including pre-event Car Show, Center for the Arts, 782-2680

31 Chandler Symphony, Center for the Arts, 782-2680

FEBRUARY

6 Spring Recreation Class Registration Begins (Residents), 782-2727

6 Our Stories: Downtown Walking Tour, starts at San Marcos courtyard, 782-2751

6 Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra, Center for the Arts, 782-2680

8 City Council Study Session, Council Chambers, 782-2180

11 City Council Meeting, Council Chambers, 782-2180

12 Spring Recreation Class Registration (Non-Residents), 782-2727

13 Chandler Sports Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon, Center for the Arts, 782-2680

14 The Summit – Manhattan Transfer & Take 6, Center for the Arts, 782-2680

15 Presidents Day, City offices closed

19 Night of Art & Science/Friday Art Walk, Downtown Chandler, 855-3539

20 Chandler Science Spectacular, Downtown Chandler, 782-3038

20 Frankie Avalon, Center for the Arts, 782-2680

21 Lee Ann Womack, Center for the Arts, 782-2680

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

Mayor to deliver annual State of the City address Feb. 18

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny will deliver his annual State of the City address at 6 p.m on Thursday, Feb. 18, . in the City Council Chambers with a reception following in the Chamber’s foyer. Mayor Tibshraeny will explore a number of topics for the coming year to include economic development, quality of life, public safety and transparency in government.

“We continue to add programs, services and events that open up government to our residents and stakeholders,”

Mayor Tibshraeny said. “My address will touch on many of these so that we may continue to have a healthy dialogue across the entire community.”

He also will discuss the City’s financial standing, budget process and community relationships. That includes keeping the

COMMENT ON GENERAL PLAN DRAFT

City planners are eager to meet with residents interested in reviewing the draft of Chandler’s updated General Plan. Several community meetings have already been held and two remain at the end of the month:

Tuesday, Jan. 26, 1 p.m., at the Desert Breeze Police Substation Community Room at 251 N. Desert Breeze Blvd.

Wednesday, Jan. 27, 6 p.m., in the Copper Room of Chandler’s Downtown Library, 22 S. Delaware St.

The goal of the updated General Plan is to ensure that the high standard of community building set by past plans and decisions are upheld going forward. The draft plan is a refinement of the previously adopted General Plan approved by voters in 2008. A draft of the updated plan is available for public review at Chandler libraries, the

DADDY & DAUGHTER VALENTINE’S DANCE

Fathers and their little girls can create some special memories at the City’s annual Daddy & Daughter Valentine’s Dance from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 5, at the Snedigar Recreation Center, or from 6-8 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 6, at the Chandler Community Center. The dances are intended for fathers and their daughters ages 4 to 10. There will be music, dancing, contests, crafts, and a dinner. Cost is $25 per couple for residents and $34 for non-residents. Sign up online at chandleraz.gov/registration. For more information, call 782-2641.

Transportation & Development Office and the City Clerk’s Office, and online at chandleraz.gov/GPupdate.

Comments can be submitted online via the website, emailed to david. delatorre@chandleraz.gov, or mailed to the City’s Planning Division, c/o David De La Torre, Mail Stop 105, P.O. Box 4008, Chandler, AZ 85244-4008.

BREAK TIME RECREATION GUIDE

Get out and explore while staying active with friends and family this spring! Check out the quarterly Break Time recreation guide that is filled with leisure and lifestyle classes and programs for people of all ages. Printed copies are available at numerous City facilities and an electronic version is online at chandleraz. gov/breaktime. Class registration opens Feb. 6 for Chandler residents, and Feb. 12 for nonresidents.

lines of communication open with the state’s legislative delegates.

“I know hundreds if not thousands of bills will be introduced during this year’s session at the Legislature, and many will have positive impacts on Chandler and our fellow cities and towns,” Mayor Tibshraeny said, but added that “Others may not. I promise that we will continue to monitor these bills and fight to keep Chandler‘s best interests safe from any harmful legislation.”

The event will begin with a “Behind the Scenes” video that will explore the City’s operations on a 24/7 basis. The Chandler City Council Chambers are located at 88 E. Chicago St., adjacent to City Hall. The event is free, open to the public, and no reservations are required. but I

VITA PROGRAM OFFERS FREE TAX PREPARATION

Believe it or not, tax season has arrived and the City’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program is ready to help. Individuals and households who earned no more than $54,000 in total income last year are eligible for free income tax preparation and electronic filing through Friday, April 15. The following six tax prep sites in Chandler open the week of Feb. 1:

• First Credit Union, 25 S. Arizona Place, 3-8 p.m. on Tuesdays, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesdays

• Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Mondays

• Chandler Hamilton Library, 3700 S. Arizona Ave., 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, and 4-7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays

• Chandler Christian Community Center, 345 S. California St., noon to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays

• The Chandler CARE Center, 777 E. Galveston St., noon to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, noon to 4 p.m. on Fridays, and 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturdays

• Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation, 2145 W. Elliot Road, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays.

All sites will prepare basic tax forms on a first come, first served basis. Interpreters also are available to assist Spanishspeaking residents. When visiting a VITA site for free tax preparation, all filers must bring several items with them including valid photo identification, Social Security cards, proof of all income and more. A complete list of what to bring is available online at chandleraz.gov/VITA.

Rachal opened Creole Cajun Bistro on Valentine’s Day last year. The bistro’s popularity has been fueled by wordof-mouth praise about the restaurant’s authenticity, charm and the amazing food.

The infusion of Creole- and Cajuninfluenced cooking is an art that Rachal has mastered. The two are similar, given their French heritage, but the difference is rooted in the history of the people. Creoles had access to local markets and were often wealthy with servants to cook their food. Cajuns mostly lived off the land and had to use what they could find—mainly crawfish, alligator, frogs and shrimp—from the bayous and swamps. Both styles are expertly blended at the Creole Cajun Bistro. The menu features an impressive array

of Rachal’s unique creations. Appetizers range from Creole barbecue shrimp ($16.95) and fried green tomatoes ($9.95) to the adventurous fried frog legs ($12.95) or fried alligator ($15.95).

Entrèes include traditional dishes such as Creole jambalaya ($14.95) and file okra gumbo ($15.95). Or, for something a little different, try the crawfish mac and cheese ($15.95) or shrimp and grits ($16.95).

I had the chicken breast ètouffèe (pronounced eh-too-fay), which is a delicious stew that is used to smother rice with a wide choice of meat ($12.95). And, for the really hungry, there are two selections of huge portions of fish and shellfish: the Louisiana seafood platter and the seasonal bayou bucket—both $29.95.

Rachal also serves salads, po’ boys and

slider baskets with a choice of shrimp, catfish, chicken or Andouille sausage ($13.95). There is a dessert menu, as well, with New Orleans-inspired treats such as whiskey bread pudding and scrumptious New Orleans beignets ($6).

From the bar, Abita New Orleans beer is on tap, including Turbo Dog and Purple Haze. Or, try a Big Easy favorite like the Hurricane or a French Quarter brew called the Sazerac.

Crawfish is flown in daily from Louisiana, and everything is made from scratch, including the Andouille sausage and Rachal’s own Louisiana hot sauce. Rachal has more than 100 cooking videos on YouTube with millions of views and thousands of followers who want to learn to cook authentic Southern dishes.

In true New Orleans style, there is often

a party going on at the bistro. On weekends, diners are treated to beads and Zydeco and jazz music played by a DJ, or sometimes a local jazz band. The second Sunday of each month, the popular Cheryl Thurston and the Mardi Gras Band bring their show to the bistro, providing umbrellas for the patrons wishing to participate in the New Orleans “Second Line Dance.” Loyal followers come from all over the Valley and are invited to bring their instruments and play with the band, or belt out tunes to the great old jazz songs.

Creole Cajun Bistro is located at 5070 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 400, Chandler. For more information, call (480) 895-1655 or visit http:// http://creolecajunbistro.com.

EKLETIC PIE from page 40 year (one pizza per month); all guests receive a free beer glass with beer purchase (while supplies last), and can enjoy beer tasting from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

• Friday, Feb. 19: Enjoy free beer glass with purchase and live entertainment from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

• Saturday, Feb. 20: From 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., 20 lucky children can tour the store and receive a free 7-inch pepperoni pizza and enjoy face painting and balloon making from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. At 3 p.m., diners can enter the pizza eating contest; and live entertainment runs from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

• Daily Specials throughout Grand Opening week include a 7-inch pizza, Caesar side salad and soft drink for just $8 for dine-in only guests; the exclusive online special features an 11-inch pepperoni pizza for only $2.99. Diners can win an Apple iPad via raffle, enjoy free gifts for posting to Facebook, and sign up for Eklectic Pie’s loyalty program.

The concept behind Eklectic Pie was spawned in 2009 when Harmon’s family couldn’t agree on what pizza toppings

they wanted during a Super Bowl game— the family decided everyone should throw their creation into the ring—and the original concept for Eklectic Pie was born, and Harmon opened his debut location in Mesa.

“As a family we started a conversation about the need for a pizza restaurant that offered a ton of personal choice, and pushed the boundaries past traditional red sauce pies,” said Harmon. Eklectic Pie offers nine exciting sauces on their menu including: marinara, Alfredo, basil pesto, barbecue, Buffalo, chipotle, jalapeno cilantro lime cream, Chinese spicy chile and olive oil.

“You won’t find a heat lamp, microwave or freezer at Eklectic Pie,” said Harmon. “Only the freshest ingredients and the highest quality food is on our menu.”

Many ingredients on Eklectic Pie’s menu are locally sourced including Queen Creek Olive Oil, meats from The Pork Shop, Venezia Bakery baked goods and China Mist Iced Teas. Eklectic Pie uses premium quality meats including all natural, 100 percent hormone-free chicken on their pizzas and in other

recipes. All dough, sauces and dressings are made from scratch daily with no added preservatives. For its pizza dough, Eklectic Pie uses only all-natural and additive-free flour, imported from Italy; they use imported San Marzano organic tomatoes as well.

Each pizza at Eklectic Pie is priced at $5.49 for a 7 inch or $7.99 for an 11-inch pie with endless topping combinations.

Pizza lovers can select a pie from the Eklectic Pie “Wall of Fame” including such creations like the “Sedona,” topped with chipotle sauce, mozzarella, cheddar, grilled chicken, jalapenos, black beans, corn, red onion, sour cream and guacamole or the “Wine Country,” which is loaded with Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, gorgonzola, caramelized onion, walnuts, spinach and finished with a balsamic fig vinaigrette. There are nine other “Wall of Fame” pizza options from which to choose.

Eklectic Pie also offers a “make-yourown” pizza option with traditional or gluten free dough ($2 additional charge) and nine sauces, eight kinds of cheese, 10 meat varieties, 16 vegetable toppings, five kinds of fruit and nuts, and 13 “finishers”

Plan a wedding in a few hours at downtown walk

Engaged couples—or those thinking about marrying—can find businesses to help with planning the blessed event during the Downtown Chandler Wedding Walk from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28. Check-in for the event is at the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort, and attendees will weave their way throughout the historic colonnade to view participating businesses along San Marcos Place and Boston Street.

Participating businesses include Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort, SoHo63, Uptown Bridal, DePoy Studios, Yes I Do Bridal, Jared Platt Photography, SanTan Brewing Co., Crust, Sibley’s West: The Chandler and Arizona Gift Shop, ZonaPrint, ImprovMANIA, Serrano’s Mexican Food Restaurants, Bourbon Jack’s, Paleta’s Betty, Amoroma Productions, The Traveling Photobooth, (soon to be open) The Brickyard Downtown and more.

including items like spinach, sprouts, basil, cilantro and more.

“We think it’s important to offer more dietary or life-style choice products on our menu. Gluten-free crusts are made in our kitchens daily. We offer toppings such as nondairy cheese and tofu as a nonmeat choice and organic vegetables where and when possible. That obsession with variety and quality is what we believe is the ‘Eklectic’ difference,” said Eklectic Pie president Jay Johnson.

Eklectic Pie’s menu does not stop at pizza—they offer salads ($7.29 each), kid’s meals, Boylan’s all-natural pure cane sugar soft drinks, China Mist Iced Tea, Arizona craft beer and wine, plus a baked cookie dessert, s’mores pie or the fruity Pietuitti.

“The options are nearly endless,” said Harmon. “There is something for every taste bud ranging from classic to very unique.”

Eklectic Pie pizzas are cooking using the latest oven technology creating a perfect crust in 3 minutes. Additionally, they have a special online ordering system in place for busy pizza fans on the go available at www.eklecticpie.com. Their customer loyalty program offers rewards for repeat purchases and more.

During the event, guests are encouraged to share their experiences via #chandlerweddingwalk.

The walk will conclude at SoHo63, where guests will be treated to a mock reception and a hosted bar. The event is free, but guests will have the option to pay $5 for the ability to receive raffle tickets that can be used to enter to win prizes.

Raffle prizes for the event total over $4,000, with grand prizes including $1,000

off a SoHo63 Wedding Rental Package, $500 off any full DePoy Studios Wedding photography collection, and $500 off a wedding dress from Uptown Bridal. Winners of the prizes will be chosen at 7 p.m. at the mock reception at SoHo63. Guests must be present to claim a prize.

Registration for the event is available online before the event or in person the day of the event. For more information, visit www.downtownchandler.org/weddingwalk/ or email Karli Ragan at Karli@ downtownchandler.org.

is part of the popular Our Stories speaker series jointly presented throughout the year by the Chandler Museum, Chandler Public Library and Chandler Historical Society.

Since 2000, 18 buildings surrounding the downtown square have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as part of the Chandler Commercial Historic District.

Among them is the building at 81 Boston St., recently vacated by a studio glass company, which once used to house a silent movie theater called the Rowena Theatre.

Rowena wasn’t the first theater in the city, but it was one of the earliest and the longest running, Crago said. It was built in 1920 by William Menhennet, who operated it until 1932 when Joe and Alice Woods bought it and named it the Rowena after Joe’s mother. It closed in 1955.

“The idea of the Rowena in entertainment has continued on. The new development downtown, known as The Row, takes its name from the Rowena Theatre,” he said.

building materials were rare and what was available was going into the war effort. The Parkway operated from 1945 until 1979.

According to Crago, the Woods family, which operated Rowena and the Parkway, touted the need for a second theater because airmen from the Williams Air Force Base in Higley were coming to downtown Chandler for entertainment.

“Even though most construction of that type— renovation and major construction of a theater— was really rare during WWII, the federal government approved it because it understood, in that respect, this was a war effort and it wanted to keep the boys entertained,” Crago said.

Just down the street on San Marcos Place was Parkway Theater (at 28 S. San Marcos Pl., now housing El Zocalo Mexican Restaurant), which came into operation after the building was converted to a theater during World War II, when

Organizers will relate this and other such stories during a brisk, one-and-a-half-hour walk.

There won’t be an opportunity for seating, but history buffs will be rewarded:

“I guarantee that anyone who comes will never view Downtown Chandler in the same way,” Crago said.

Pre-registration is not required. Participants will meet in the courtyard of the San Marcos Resort, at 1 N. San Marcos Pl., (west side of Arizona Avenue, south of Chandler Boulevard).

Get a mineral makeup makeover at Ocotillo Village

Now that the New Year is in the rearview mirror, it’s time to check in on those resolutions. Sure, you might have slipped on your goals to lose all those extra holiday pounds within a week, or to never eat sweets ever again. But fortunately, the Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa is here with a healthful resolution that’s as simple as it is rewarding: taking better of your skin with Jane Iredale Skincare Makeup.

Available at the Ocotillo Village’s on-site day spa and salon, Jane Iredale Skincare Makeup is a pure mineral powder makeup line that nourishes and protects the skin.

Since she founded her company more than 20 years ago, Iredale has been recognized with the International Spa Association Visionary Award, which is presented every year to someone in the spa industry who has made significant contributions to both the definition and positive movement of health and wellness over the lifetime of their career.

Jane Iredale Skincare products are noncomedogenic, meaning they don’t block pores and allows the skin to breathe and function normally. Plus, multiple products have earned the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation, reserved for products that have scientific data showing that it sufficiently and safely aid in the prevention of sun-induced damage to the skin.

Open to members and nonmembers, the Ocotillo Village’s resort-style day spa and salon is also offering a series of pampering spa specials. Offered through the end of February, purchase a five-pack of massages, facials or pedicures and save up to $240 off regular prices.

The Ocotillo Village Spa Series prices are as follows:

• 60-minute massage is $75 (regular $114)

• 90-minute massage is $102 (regular $149)

• 60-minute facial is $77 (regular $92)

• 90-minute facial is $104 (regular $152)

• 60-minute signature pedicure is $50 (regular $65)

Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa is located at 4200 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler. For more information, call (480) 656-0045.

Produce market set for Desert Palms Church

Produce On Wheels Without Waste (POWWOW) distributes fresh produce in a farmers market atmosphere. The purpose of the market is to reach out to the community by providing quality produce at an affordable price. A $10 donation is good for up to 60 pounds of produce with six to eight varieties regularly available.

POWWOW is held on the second Saturday of the month from November through May. The next scheduled event is from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 13, in the parking lot of Desert Palms Church, 4265 S. Arizona Ave. The food goes quickly, so get there early. For more information, visit its Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/ POWWOWatDPC.

The Coloring Craze is coming to the libraries

The Chandler Public Library is offering a variety of coloring clubs for all ages, children to adults, beginning Feb.1 with the Tween Coloring Club at the Basha Library at 3:30 p.m. The Downtown and Hamilton libraries will also offer coloring clubs for teens and adults/seniors during the month of February.

Each of these coloring clubs allows participants to relax, de-stress and let their creativity come alive no matter their age or artistic skill level. Each club will provide coloring pages and coloring supplies.

Basha Library, 5990 S. Val Vista Dr., Chandler

Tween Coloring Club

Dates: Monday, Feb. 1, Feb. 29, March 7 and March 21

Start Time: 3:30 p.m.

“We decided to do this group because it’s the latest trend and you see it everywhere,” said Chris Koeth, Downtown Library assistant and coordinator for the Outside the Lines Adult Coloring Group.

Age: 9 to 11 years old

“It’s a way for people and the community to get together, without excluding people who may not consider themselves artists but are artists at heart.”

Hamilton Library, 3700 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler

Thursday Coloring Club

Dates: Feb. 4, Feb. 11, Feb. 18, Feb. 25, March 3, March 10, March 17

Start Time: 10 a.m.

These programs are free, but registration is required for the Thursday and Teen Coloring Clubs. The Thursday Coloring Club, Teen Coloring Club and the Tween Coloring Club will run through February to the end of March.

Here is a list of the events and locations:

Downtown Library, 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler

Outside the Line Adult Coloring Group

Dates: Wednesday, Feb. 3 and March 2

Start Time: 10 a.m.

Age: Adults, Baby Boomers and seniors

Ages: Adults, Baby Boomers and seniors (registration required)

Teen Coloring Club

Dates: Feb. 4, Feb. 11, Feb. 18, Feb. 25, March 3, March 10, March 17

Start Time: 2:15 p.m.

Ages: Teens 12 to 18 years old (registration required)

For more information, visit http:// chandlerlibrary.org/ or call (480) 7822800.

A garage storage system that utilizes the space above the garage door is being offered by Keep Track Storage Solutions of Chandler, which can install 30 totes above most standard 16-foot garage doors with 12 inches of available headroom left between the garage door and ceiling.

“People like concealing their stuff in cabinets or containers put on shelves, but then both take up valuable space you need to park your car inside and still open your car doors,” says Marshall Schoewe, Keep Track president. “I’ve affordably captured that void of unused space above garage doors like never before.”

Because the totes are arranged in a two-dimensional grid pattern, customers can document the contents with photos and then upload them with a free software app onto their computer or storage device for instant reference.

Buy arts and crafts at annual spring show in Sun Lakes

The Sun Lakes Arts and Crafts Association Annual Spring Show will boast more than 80 vendors during the event at 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, at Oakwood Country Club, 9645 E. E.J. Robson Blvd.

Come early for the best selection of jewelry, gourds, beadwork, stained glass, ceramics, handmade cards, leather tooled items, quilting and stitchery, dichroic glass items, hand-painted silk scarves and more.

This year, the association has partnered with Local First Arizona (www. localfirstaz.com) to help promote local businesses through the Shop Local Program.

Admission is free and open to the public. Entrance to Oakwood Country Club is off Riggs Road and Robson Boulevard (west of Alma School Road). For more information, visit www. sunlakesartsandcraftsassociation.net.

Inner Vision Yoga hosts

7-day retreat to Mexico

Inner Vision Yoga is hosting a sevenday yoga retreat to Maya Tulum, Mexico, from April 23 to April 30.

Co-owner and master yoga teachers Jeff and Donna Martens invite all levels of yoga practitioners to nourish their mind, body and spirit on this exotic adventure to a beautiful setting on the Riviera Maya, between pristine ocean and emerald green rain forest.

Experience the unhurried pace and healing power that will allow participants to detoxify, rejuvenate and elevate their spirits as they enjoy yoga classes in a loving, supported environment emphasizing individual alignment, strength and fun.

The retreat is all inclusive with ocean-front bungalow accommodations,

amazing meals, daily private yoga classes, evening yoga workshops and other adventurous activities.

Space is limited and interested participants should call Inner Vision Yoga at (480) 632-7899.

With studios in Tempe and Chandler, Inner Vision Yoga offers more than 100 classes per week to all levels of yoga practitioners. Classes are offered in the morning, afternoon and evening seven days a week. A renowned yoga teacher training school, Inner Vision Yoga also specializes in bringing the benefits of yoga into the workplace with its Workplace Yoga program. To learn more, visit www.InnerVisionYoga.com or call (480) 632-7899.

Pieology gets even fresher with new custom salad program

Pieology Pizzeria, where pizza lovers go to create artisan-style custom pizzas in endless flavor combinations, is offering a custom salad program, just in time for diners who are resolving to eat more mindfully in the new year.

Pieology’s made-to-order custom salads allow guests to choose from three fresh lettuce options of organic field greens, romaine hearts or spinach. Guests then select from any of Pieology’s more than 40 garden fresh and artisanal ingredients, including sunflower seeds, garbanzo beans and candied walnuts, along with a choice of five signature salad dressings, which can be served on the side or tossed with the salad. Pieology also offers a signature classic and Caesar salad as well as a side salad. The generously portioned entrée salads and pizzas are the perfect pairing for a shareable meal.

“Pieology was founded on the idea that every guest deserves a fresh and made-to-order meal that is as unique as they are, so we’re excited to expand our menu offerings to now include madeto-order custom salads,” said Pieology Founder and CEO Carl Chang. “Our newly implemented salad program allows the same personalization that our guests love about Pieology’s artisan-style pizza using unlimited fresh ingredients, to create a refreshing salad that is literally made just for them, and always at one affordable price.”

Salads can be made to accommodate

any nutritional preferences such as lowcalorie, protein-packed, vegetarian, vegan or paleo.

“With so many ingredient options, guests have the ability to choose just how healthy or indulgent they’d like to be with their pizza or salad,” Chang said. “At Pieology, the power is always in your hands.”

For the pizza diehards, the Pieology pizza experience starts with fresh housemade dough that is pressed into 11.5-inch thin pizza crusts, which is typically larger than others in the custom pizza space. Guests select from eight signature sauces, moving down the line to choose from more than 40 fresh and flavorful meats, cheeses, vegetables, herbs and spices. The customized pizzas are then stone oven fired to perfection in less than three minutes. To finish, guests have the option to add after-bake “Flavor Blast” sauces, including fiery buffalo, pesto and barbecue, to really make it their own. All custom pizzas with unlimited toppings are always available at one affordable price. Pieology also offers Daiya vegan cheese at select locations, along with gluten-free and whole wheat crust, and a selection of seven signature pizzas which can be customized upon request. There is a location at 3450 W. Chandler Blvd., Suite 5. For more information, call (480) 963-3499 or visit www.pieology. com.

Upscale, intimate community of only 15 homes in one of the best infill locations on quaint lots in Chandler Square footage range from 1,970 – 2,300 Prices from $339,700. 1 and 2 story homes available

Get the whole family involved in fitness

Families can keep fit together this new year as the Chandler School Boosters (CSB) kick off their inaugural 5K run and 1-mile walk.

The Chandler Schools All In! Family Fun Event is Sunday, Jan. 24, at Perry High School, 1919 E. Queen Creek Rd. Race time is 9 a.m.

The 5K is a timed event, with awards for the winners, and all entrants receive a T-shirt and participation medal.

Entertainment is on-hand for observers and runners alike, including a vendor fair, kid’s activity zone, food trucks and more in the fundraiser for the Chandler School Boosters (CSB).

The CSB is a 2-year-old nonprofit umbrella organization for all parent organizations operating in the Chandler Unified School District, with the

responsibility of ensuring sound fiscal management. Each member organization pays a percentage to fund the CSB annual budget for items such as tax filings and accounting. This fundraiser is meant to keep more of that money in the schools, supporting kids.

“Ideally, the Chandler School Boosters will be completely self-sufficient,” said Lyle Bonfigt, president, Chandler School Boosters. “We thought this fun run would fill a need for a schoolswide run, and help us meet that goal.”

Event sponsors include Aspire Kids Sports Center, Banner Health, Chandler Unified School District, Slide & Bounce Around and Sports Authority.

The race is $25/students and $35 for nonstudents. Register at www.raceroster. com (search Chandler Schools).

Break Time recreation guide on stands now

Residents and nonresidents alike can find a reason to get outside this spring right in Chandler.

The City’s quarterly Break Time recreation guide offers hundreds of reasons to get out and explore while staying active with friends and family.

For an off-the-beaten path excursion, consider a 90-minute moon-lit hike through Veterans Oasis Park to discover creatures of the night. Or relive playground glory with one of the many Adult Sport Leagues. And find Nemo by challenging kids to tackle the swim team.

The spring session covers March, April and May and features leisure and lifestyle classes and programs for people of all ages. Printed copies of the recreation guide are available at numerous City facilities and an electronic version can be accessed online at www.chandleraz.gov/ breaktime.

Priority registration for residents opens 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 6, with general nonresident registration beginning at 10 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 12.

Plan your must-attend activities ahead of time by taking advantage of the City’s “Wish List” feature available through the ActiveNet registration site. Wish List allows patrons to make a list of all the exciting activities they would like to register for this season while registration is still closed. Once registration officially opens simply

login, review the wish list and add all final selections to the cart to complete the registration.

Be sure to check out this season’s newest classes including Ball Bonanza for toddlers, Family Fitness Boot Camp and Introduction to DLSR Photography. Back by popular demand, enjoy intersession youth camps, the Senior Variety Show—Spice of Life, Mayor Jay Tibshraeny’s Health Connect Expo and much more.

Registration can be done online at chandleraz.gov/registration, by mail or in person at four locations:

• Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave.

• Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd.

• Snedigar Recreation Center, 4500 S. Basha Rd.

• Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd.

Swim program registration can also be done in person at the Aquatics Administrative offices at 650 E. Ryan Rd.

For more information on class registration, call (480) 782-2727. You can also keep up-to-date on the latest Chandler Recreation news and information when you “Like” the ChandlerRecreation Facebook page, subscribe to Chandler Recreation on YouTube and follow @ChandlerRec on Twitter and Instagram.

Ridin’ with the Duke: John Wayne in Arizona

The Ed Robson Branch Library is presenting “Ridin’ with the Duke: John Wayne in Arizona” from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 3, Ed Robson Branch Library, 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. Gregory McNamee will inform attendees about little known-facts with regard to the Duke’s life and work in Arizona. McNamee is a research fellow at the Southwest Center of the University of Arizona, and a lecturer in the Eller School of Management, also at the University of Arizona.

Wayne was born in Iowa and lived for most of his adult life in California. Yet, he spent many years exploring, living and investing in Arizona, where he produced his own films, raised cattle and operated

a game ranch.

Wayne remains an iconic presence in American popular culture. In this talk, McNamee, who often writes about film and western history alike for such publications as the Encyclopaedia Britannica and The Hollywood Reporter, looks at the Duke’s long career in Arizona.

On the day of the program, attendees should come to the front desk of the library for a free ticket. There is a limit of two tickets per person. Seating is limited. Park in the church parking lot next to the library. This event is sponsored by Arizona Humanities and the New Friends of the Ed Robson Library.

For more information, call (602) 6523000 or visit www.mcldaz.org.

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 religiousrelated events.

About Care

Monthly volunteer training, by individual appointment.

A nonprofit serving homebound Chandler and Gilbert residents; provides transportation, shopping and errands, friendly visits, reassurance phone calls, and minor home repairs.

Info: (480) 802-2331, www.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. No preregistration required. Chandler Regional Medical Center, Morrison 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, www.ironwoodcrc.com

Build Your Own Business: Chandler

8 a.m. first and third Thursdays 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

Chandler multicultural festival

Chandler’s Multicultural Festival and Day of Unity brought the annual Naturalization ceremony for new US citizens and a wide variety of performers to its new home at the Chandler Fashion Center. With two stages, both inside and out, many styles of music, dance and storytelling found new audiences and exposed visitors to new and exciting forms of expression. The day of unity brought home the notion that the US truly is a