SanTan Sun News - Jan. 7, 2017 by Times Media Group

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Firefighters prepare to start training in new burn building BY TIM J. RANDALL

The Chandler Fire, Health & Medical Department recently held its first live fire test in its new 9,000-square-foot burn building, which will be used for regular training starting early this year. “With its many different training features, this building is going to increase our training capabilities for our firefighters and our regional partners, helping us to provide our community with some of the best fire and life safety protection in the country,” said Val H. Gale Jr., City of Chandler Fire, Health & Medical Department spokesman. Monies for the $2.9 million building were raised primarily from bond issuance, according to Gale Jr.. The burn building is a significant upgrade to the city’s existing 20-year-old facility. The threestory structure is located along the Price Corridor and allows public safety personnel to train in real-life scenarios involving hazardous materials, technical rescues and fire and medical incidents. “Live fire training will be the focus of the new burn building, but don’t let the name mislead you,” Gale Jr. said. “The Chandler Fire, Health & Medical Department is an all-hazard response department and the new burn building was designed to accommodate all other rescue disciplines of the fire service as

The burn building is part of a plan that includes the construction of a 250-seat auditorium, classroom and office space.

well.” “Our Chandler firefighters actually participated in the design on this burn

building so it would accurately create the challenges they commonly face in our community,” he said.

It’s a multidiscipline facility. The structure’s multisided design may see a crew in training on one side of the facility facing a blaze at a single-family residence or a commercial building. Another crew on the structure’s north side could be trying to put out a warehouse conflagration, while a team on the facility’s east side might be working to contain an inferno at a multifamily residence. The facility also has custom-designed “burn rooms with high-temperature linings on the walls and floors so the firefighters can conduct live fire training, simulating actual fire conditions they encounter on the job,” he said. “This burn building is the only one in the region with the unique capability of simulating the actual challenges of basement fires. With the increasing popularity of basements in our community, this has become a very important training feature.” One of the primary advantages of the new facility is its classification as a Class A training center. Class A combustibles are wood, paper, fabric and refuse. “This will allow us to train our own firefighters as well as our regional partners in the latest tactics and strategies of fire dynamics by burning ordinary see

BURN BUILDING page 4

3 set to be inducted into Celebration Plaza The Gila River Relocation Center was vast, holding 13,000 people, while Chandler only had a population of 3,000. Courtesy of National Archives and Records Administration, Identifier 538649.

City to unveil historical kiosk at Nozomi Park BY TIM J. RANDALL

Most Americans know the story behind Pearl Harbor, but how many realize that Chandler played a role in a devastating part of history? The municipality is taking important steps to chronicle these events. “There was a Japanese-American incarceration camp just a few miles south of Chandler, called the Gila River Relocation

Camp,” said Jody A. Crago, museum administrator, Cultural Affairs Division, City of Chandler. “More than 16,000 Japanese Americans were held at some point at that camp during World War II.” To record this history properly, the City see

NOZOMI PARK page 4

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the City of Chandler will honor two individuals and one organization by inducting them into Celebration Plaza at Tumbleweed Park during a special ceremony at 8 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 21. Former Chandler Mayor Kenny Thomas, Police Officer James Snedigar and the Chandler Chamber of Commerce will be recognized for their sacrifice, contributions and good works on behalf of the people of Chandler. Thomas served as mayor from 1976 to 1979. Snedigar joined the Chandler Police Department in 1995 and was killed in the line of duty in 1999. Formed in 1912, the same year that Chandler was founded, the Chandler Chamber of Commerce has advocated for Chandler’s businesses and community for more than 104 years. The public is invited to attend the ceremony that will be held at Celebration

Plaza, which is a permanent monument near the center of Tumbleweed Park, located on the southwest corner of McQueen and Germann roads. Celebration Plaza features a fountain and a decorative wall used to display brass plaques honoring organizations or individuals for their civic leadership, public outreach and outstanding personal service and commitment to the community. This year’s inductees will have their plaques added alongside the plaques for these previous inductees: Officer David Payne, Chandler Kiwanis Club, Chandler Lions Club, Coy Payne, Chandler Compadres, John H. Dick, Najeeby Basha, Jerry Brooks, Patti Bruno, Lowell Huggins, Detective Carlos Ledesma, Dave McDowell, Marty Wright, Eddie Basha Jr.,

F E AT U R E STO R I E S Kyrene to phase out guards’ apartments on campuses . . . . . . community . . . . . . Page 09 Eco-wise Element launches in Arizona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . business . . . . . . . . . . Page 24 Kids chefs needed for healthy cooking contest . . . . . . . . . . . . youth . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 33 Reminders for the upcoming tax season . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . neighbors . . . . . . . . Page 54 Chandler celebrates diversity with renowned play . . . . . . . . . . . arts . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 58

STFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Center Section

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INDUCTED page 5

More Community . . . . . . . 1-19 Business . . . . . . . . 20-26 Youth . . . . . . . . . . 27-34 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Neighbors . . . . . . 44-57 Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . 58-64 Spirituality . . . . . 65-67 Directory . . . . . . 68-69 Classifieds . . . . . . 70-71 Where to Eat . . . 72-74

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4 January 7-20, 2017 NOZOMI PARK from page 1 of Chandler will unveil the Nozomi Park History Kiosk during a Jan. 21 ceremony. “This kiosk is the result of work that began in 2012, originating from a parks board member with a passion for researching the baseball leagues that emerged at the Japanese internment camps of World War II,” Crago said. “The project was researched and written by the Chandler Museum staff in conjunction with members of the JapaneseAmerican Citizens League, members of the Nisei Baseball Research Project, Japanese American history experts, National Parks historians, and other City of Chandler staff. The ceremony allows us to dedicate this important kiosk that documents this challenging period of American history.” The new kiosk will have multiple panels describing the history of the internment camp at Gila River, and will be dedicated by Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. There will be additional comments by the president of the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL), a member of the Nisei Baseball Research Project, and potentially someone who was incarcerated at the Gila River Internment Camp. “While not a proud time in this country’s history, the background of the internment camps is important,” Tibshraeny said. “Given the proximity of the Gila River Internment Camp to Chandler, this is truly a fitting way to memorialize that piece of our country’s past. “It’s a way for us to honor those who endured hard times, and I am grateful to all those who were involved in making this kiosk a reality.” In connection with the kiosk, the Chandler Museum introduced in December

BURN BUILDING from page 1 combustibles instead of propane.” The burn building is one piece of a much larger City effort to increase the protection of citizens. “In Chandler, we continue to place our emphasis on public safety by ensuring our first responders have the tools needed to keep them safe,” said Councilman Rene Lopez. “This new burn building goes a long way in honing the specific skills needed in responding to emergencies in Chandler.” Gila River, Maricopa and Sun Lakes

a new exhibit exploring the history of Japanese-American internment. “The exhibit, ‘Art of Survival: Enduring the Turmoil of Tule Lake,’ was an excellent opportunity for the Chandler Museum to mark the 75th anniversary of the start of Japanese-American incarceration during World War II,” Crago said. “On Feb. 19, 1942, Executive Order 9066 was signed by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. This executive order eventually led to the incarceration of 120,000 JapaneseAmericans from California, Oregon, Washington and Arizona. Over two-thirds of which were American citizens.” The exhibit is a nationally roaming commemoration of the Tule Lake internment camp at which JapaneseAmericans considered disloyal by the U.S. government were exiled. “The Tule Lake Segregation Center National Historic Landmark and nearby Camp Tule Lake in California were both used to incarcerate Japanese Americans forcibly removed from the west coast of the United States,” according to the National Park Service website. Crago said the museum exhibit comprises “10 panels that describe the history of Japanese-American incarceration during World War II,” he said. “There are 39 fine art photographs by Hiroshi Watanabe (a highly regarded photographer), and a stunning four-part silk panel art piece regarding Executive Order 9066.” “The wartime incarceration of Japanese-Americans reminds us that our constitutional and civil rights remain fragile under situations of social duress, said Donna Y. Cheung, president, JapaneseAmerican Citizens League. “As places of worship continue to receive threatening messages Valleywide,

public safety personnel will train there as well. “Moving forward, this will be a shared facility, so all future projects will be considering the needs of each department,” Gale Jr. said. Immediate plans also call for a 250-seat auditorium, classroom and office space. Additionally, users can train on defensive tactics, driving and weapons in specialized spaces. Phase 2, slated for development in fiscal year 2018-2019, will offer a firing range and a large vehicle/search and rescue building.

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A baseball team, the Gila River Relocation Center All-Stars, formed for the Nisei League. It is pictured here in September 1944. Courtesy of Nisei Baseball Research Project.

we see the same social forces (prejudice, scapegoating and absence of leadership) still at play,” Cheung said. Her organization secures and maintains the civil rights of Japanese-Americans and all others who are victimized by injustice and bigotry. “With the commemoration of the Nozomi Park Kiosk and its telling of this cautionary episode in U.S. history, the City of Chandler, its leaders and residents, speak of its commitment toward upholding the constitutional and civil rights of all people in all communities,” Cheung said. “It’s this willingness to stand up for justice, to stand with people being targeted that makes the telling of Japanese-American wartime incarceration worthwhile. I thank the people of Chandler for their brave commitment toward justice.” There is a deeper connection between the Tule Lake exhibit and the Nozomi Park

History Kiosk. “Of those who spent part of the war incarcerated at Gila River, more than 2,005 Japanese Americans were ‘segregated’ to Tule Lake,” Crago said. Funding for the kiosk was provided by “a grant from the U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service and the Japanese American Confinement Sites Grant Program,” Crago said. “The exhibit was based on work assisted by a grant from the Department of Interior, National Park Service and received federal assistance for the preservation and interpretation of U.S. confinement sites where Japanese Americans were detained during World War II.” This History Kiosk is part of the City’s ongoing “History in Your Own Backyard” series, which presents fascinating vantage points on events from a Chandler perspective.

Firefighters from Chandler, Gila River, Maricopa and Sun Lakes will train at the new burn building.

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INDUCTED from page 1 Chandler Service Club, Lenford Calley, Officer Robert Nielsen and Henry Salinas. Nominations for induction are submitted by the public between Feb. 1 and April 30 each year. There is no fee to submit a nomination, and the form is available online at chandleraz.gov/ parks or by calling 480-782-2717. The nomination forms are reviewed and

Community evaluated by a subcommittee consisting of two members of the Museums Advisory Board and one member of the Parks and Recreation Board. The full Museums Advisory Board then votes on which names to submit to the Chandler City Council for final approval. Questions about the Celebration Plaza nomination criteria or the recognition process can be directed to the Chandler Museum at 480-782-2717.

Celebration Plaza inductees for 2016 Officer James Robert Snedigar Jim Snedigar came to the Chandler Police Department in 1995 with a wealth of experience, including service in the U.S. Army 3rd Ranger Battalion. As an officer, he modeled community policing concepts and embodied the noblest principles of policing; his fellow officers respected him for his professionalism. Snedigar served the department as a field training officer and then as a member of the Neighborhood Response Team. In 1998, he was selected to serve on the Special Assignment Unit (SAU). On Friday, April 16, 1999, Snedigar responded to a request for SAU personnel to assist with a search for three armed robbery suspects. While leading the team, he was mortally wounded. In addition to his dedication to his job, he took an active role in numerous community projects that positively impacted the residents in Chandler’s traditional neighborhoods. He was also a prominent figure during the W. Steven Martin Toy Drive to provide Christmas gifts to Chandler families. Snedigar’s service and dedication left a legacy for all Chandler Police Department personnel to follow. The City will honor Snedigar for making the ultimate sacrifice for the people of Chandler. Kenneth Thomas Mayors and councilmembers have enormous influence on the development of a community and former Chandler Mayor Kenny Thomas served during a crucial time of immense growth, when annexation battles literally defined the shape of the city. Thomas came to Chandler in the 1940s, when he bought a house on Tulsa Street and joined his brother’s meat locker business. In 1964, he began his 15-year political career when he was appointed to fill a vacancy on the City Council. He served as a councilmember until 1970, when he unsuccessfully ran for Mayor. Re-elected to the council in 1972, he successfully ran for mayor again in 1976. While he was mayor, Thomas

engaged in political battles with Phoenix, Tempe and Gilbert in an effort to expand Chandler’s borders. His time in local politics came to an end during a 1979 recall election in which several councilmembers lost their seats. Though Thomas never returned to politics, he dedicated more time to his favorite pastimes, including photographing the Tumbleweed Tree, which he has documented nearly every year since 1957. Thomas died Oct. 16, 2016. Chandler Chamber of Commerce For more than 104 years, the Chandler Chamber of Commerce has advocated for Chandler’s businesses and community. Over the past century, the Chamber has supported better roads, lit streets, flood control, fire protection and tourism promotion. Today, this organization continues to better the community encouraging primary job growth, promoting the importance of small businesses, and working with the State legislature and other elected officials to ensure Chandler’s economic conditions remain an advantage to its businesses. The Chamber Community Foundation Leadership Institute has trained more than 830 people in leadership qualities. Those people have gone on to sit on countless Chandler nonprofit boards and committees, as well as improve their leadership techniques in their businesses. The Chamber holds more than 530 mentoring sessions each year on everything from marketing plans to startup advice, business law questions to signage, parking to development, and more. The Chamber’s Women in Business Program empowers women with personal and professional development through monthly luncheons and mentoring events. The Young Executive Series develops future business leaders to serve the community. In short, the Chamber of Commerce, with its efforts in education, development, technology and advocacy, has been a part of Chandler’s success for more than a century.

January 7-20, 2017

Celebration Plaza criteria Nominees are evaluated based on the following criteria: • Community leaders whose outstanding personal service has resulted in significant and enduring contributions to the community. Support for this recognition should include endorsements from other groups, neighborhoods or organizations. • An individual or individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the city of Chandler. • An individual or individuals who have added to the quality of life for

Chandler residents through their involvement or financial contribution to short or long-term city projects or activities. • An individual who has demonstrated leadership, innovation and creativity, which have made Chandler a better place to live and work. • City of Chandler employees killed in the line of duty. Individuals holding an elected City of Chandler office or serving on the Museums Advisory Board or the Parks and Recreation Board are not eligible for nomination.

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East Valley volunteers collect nearly 90K shoebox gifts for needy kids SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF REPORT

Dedicated volunteers and a generous public in the East Valley gave thousands of needy children around the globe a merrier Christmas. The local teams responsible for the annual Operation Christmas Child operation collected nearly 90,000 shoeboxes filled with gifts for delivery overseas. The South Mountain team, which includes Chandler, collected a record 76,800 gift-filled boxes while the East Valley team, which covers Mesa, Gilbert and Queen Creek, collected more than 12,800 shoeboxes. Both tallies exceeded what the teams collected last year, with the team netting 5,000 more boxes than it did in 2015. The international nonprofit Samaritan’s Purse has distributed shoebox gifts to children in over 130 countries since 1993, and more than 11.2 million received one last year alone. Boxes packed by Arizonans are delivered to kids in the Philippines, Indonesia, Peru, Mongolia, Bangladesh and native Americans in the United States. The idea behind the project is simple: Pack a shoebox with school supplies, toiletries and small toys. Prohibited items include liquids, perishable food and war-related toys. The containers are either predecorated photo-storage boxes or plastic boxes with tops and bottoms gift-wrapped separately so they can be checked before they are shipped. Donors also kick in $7 per box to defray shipping costs. Robin Earle of Chandler, who led the South Mountain team, said volunteers were “motivated by not only the needs of the children internationally but also the impact on individuals packing boxes.” That attitude reflected the project’s theme of “reaching children and families on both sides of the box”— namely, the people who pack them and the kids who open them. Among the supporters of the South Mountain team was the Hobby Lobby outlet in Chandler, as well as the Corona del Sol Men’s Soccer teams, Earler said.

Among the Operation Christmas Child volunteers from Chandler were, from left, Wendell and Linda Hollinshead and Vicki and Vern Demand.

Among the team members were Tina McDougall, community relations coordinator, and Cassie Pewitt, who coordinated the local collection center. Valleywide, volunteers also marked the 1 millionth gift wrapped since Operation Christmas first arrived in Arizona. Earle said the most important thing is knowing where the gifts will go. “For many of these children, the shoebox gift delivered through this local project will be the first gift they will have ever received,” she said. Earle participated two years ago in a shoebox distribution in the Philippines, where local pastors invited children from surrounding communities to receive gifts. The country had been hit with a typhoon and a powerful earthquake. “People were literally walking on rubble and were so grateful for our gifts of love,” Earle said. Neysa Grzywal of Gilbert, who helped run the East Valley Team when

its leader stepped down in October to head a women’s ministry, said she relied on the help of the other women to run the collection: Cary Kent, relay center coordinator; Kayelynn McClary, who ran the collection center at Compassion Church; and prayer coordinator Shannon Greany. But others were involved as well. “We had some incredible volunteers at each of our church drop-off locations, many of whom have been volunteering for year,” Grzywal said. “I also have a few wonderful ladies on my community relations team.” They included team newcomers Angela Carlon and Bioleta Medar, both of Gilbert. The East Valley team attracted a total 129 volunteers who put in nearly 800 hours of work and represented 72 community organizations. That team got a special inspirational message during a visit from Jaki Stewart, a “full circle speaker” for Samaritan’s Purse because she received

a shoebox gift when she was 6 years old and living in an orphanage in Guatemala. Although the seasonal project is completed, Earle and Grzywal said there is still time to pack a gift-filled shoebox online for children suffering from poverty, natural disaster, war, terror, disease and famine. Visitors can browse samaritanspurse. org/occ to select gifts matched to a child’s specific age and gender, then finish by uploading a photo and writing a note of encouragement to be included in the shoebox they build online. They can also follow their box to discover where in the world it will be delivered. Participants can give a $25 gift card to a family member or friend so they can pack a shoebox gift online. These shoeboxes—filled with school supplies, toys, hygiene items and notes of encouragement—are delivered to children in some of the hardest-toreach countries around the world.

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Kyrene to phase out guards’ apartments on its school campuses SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF REPORT

Live-in guards in on-site apartments at 14 Kyrene schools and the district’s Ben Furlong Education Center will be looking for new homes over the next two years as officials begin phasing out the units. The school board earlier this month unanimously approved a plan to start converting the on-site residences into classrooms for preschool programs and replace the live-in guards with different security coverage. Superintendent Jan Vesely told the board that the 75-year-old on-site program has been rendered outmoded by the fences, cameras and alarms schools have now. The guards had patrolled campuses at Akimel A-al/Estrella, Altadena/ Cerritos, Aprende/Brisas, Centennial/ Colina, Kyrene Middle School/ Waggoner, Cielo, Esperanza, Lomas, Manitas, Mariposa, Milenio, Monte Vista, Ninos, Norte and Sierra. The seven other schools that had no apartments were covered by staff working on performance contracts. “All campuses are equipped with fences, cameras and alarms so the physical presence of the on-site is no longer a necessity,” Vesely said in a presentation to the board. Instead of having people walking around the campuses, staffers will be assigned to lock down schools after hours and activate alarms before

leaving. Other district staff called “field rangers” will secure buildings when outside groups are using the school for meetings or other activities after class hours. “The overall need of the district is having someone on-call to respond to phone calls when the alarms go off, not walking around,” Vesely said. The guards will be evicted in two phases because the district can’t begin building preschool facilities at all the

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schools at one time. By April 30, the residences at Brisas/ Aprende, Cielo, Milenio, Monte Vista, Norte and Waggoner/Kyrene Middle School will be closed. The others will be closed at the end of April 2018. The guards will be replaced by three people who will be on-call for emergencies and handle irrigation on the premises at a total cost of $33,000 annually by the time the closings are completed. In all, the resident-guards had been

paying $72,000 annually in rent, though of that amount, $52,000 a year was spent on maintenance, appliances and other typical landlord expenses. In return for the residences, the guards were responsible to answer emergencies, handle irrigation on the site and walk rounds on campus. The residents who are staying until 2018 will continue to pay rent. The board’s action came at the same meeting that it approved implementation of Vesely’s ambitious plan to make Kyrene more attractive to parents through an expanded dual language program at several schools, the conversion of Kyrene Traditional Academy into offering pre-K to eighth grade and the implementation of an International Baccalaureate program at Kyrene Middle School. Together with expanded early education programs at most schools, Kyrene hopes to improve its competitive edge over public and private charters and neighboring school districts. Enrollment has dropped by about 200 students, which poses the potential loss of $2 million in annual state funding, which is based on a perpupil formula. The district did not lose that money this year, and officials have said it’s unclear whether Kyrene will lose any in the 2017-18 school year.

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Courts give veterans a chance to get their lives together BY JIM WALSH

Judges, politicians and government officials speak about the benefits of establishing the new East Valley Veterans Court, but U.S. Coast Guard veteran Christopher Bilandzija is living proof that the concept works. Bilandzija, a Coast Guard veteran, once had three different misdemeanor cases pending in three different courts while he was a patient in a U.S. Veterans Administration substance abuse program. After appearing before Judge Pro Tem Gregg Maxon, a retired brigadier general in the Arizona National Guard, on a traffic case, Bilandzija got his life in order. He serves as a mentor and an inspiration to other veterans appearing on charges before Maxon in the new East Valley Regional Veterans Court. “Six months ago, you would not recognize me. I was homeless and battling substance abuse,” Bilandzija said.” It gives me opportunities to work with the judge to help other veterans.” He said the substance abuse treatment program helped him to address the reason why he was getting arrested. It was the sort of recommendation Maxon gives defendants all the time at his Veterans Court sessions in Mesa and Tempe. “Thank you to the VA and to the veterans court for saving my life and allowing me to fight for a cause greater than myself,” Bilandzija said. The regional Veterans Court expands the concept beyond Mesa, Tempe and Phoenix to include all East Valley cities except Guadalupe and Apache Junction. Veterans with cases in the Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Paradise Valley and

Carefree-Cave Creek courts are coming to Tempe to have their cases heard by Maxon. The regional court has been operating in Tempe since July but an event to announce it and celebrate it was held at the Tempe City Council chambers on Nov. 9, two days before Veterans Day. Called a “therapeutic court,” the veterans court gives defendants a second chance, typically putting veterans charged with misdemeanors on probation and referring them to a wide variety of services. Outreach workers from the Veteran’s Administration and from other agencies are present during court proceedings and meet with veterans shortly after they sentenced. The veterans often revert =to their military training, often standing at attention when they appear

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before Maxon, who uses his deep military knowledge to work out a treatment plan with the social service agencies. Maxon and other veterans court judges dismiss the case if a veteran “graduates” by completing the treatment plan. Court officials have reported a low recidivism rate. Mary Anne Majestic, retired presiding judge of Tempe City Court, said the idea of forming a veterans court in the East Valley first came up at a breakfast meeting of judges in 2014 over coffee and bagels. The popular cause of helping veterans, who have a special series of issues related to their military service, was so popular that the judges were committed to overcoming the usual jurisdictional issues to make a regional veterans court possible, she said.

“There was never one person who said no. Everyone’s goal was about the veterans,” she said. Maxon said the East Valley veterans courts have served about 500 veterans in their relatively short existence. Other officials said the East Valley has a large number of veterans, with 30,000 in Mesa alone and 15,000 in Chandler. Tempe Municipal Court received a $100,000 grant from the Arizona Department of Veterans Services to help establish the East Valley Regional Veterans Court. The money comes from the Arizona Veterans’ Donation Fund. “I would like every veteran in Arizona to have an opportunity to go to a veterans court,” Maxon said, largely because the court serves as a conduit to get them the services they earned as part of their military service. “I have had veteran say that getting arrested was the best thing that happened” to them, he said. Maxon said that veterans tend to respond to a structured treatment program, another throwback to their military training. He stressed that veterans still need to have a desire to change their lives for the program to be effective. “You are the person who has to do the work,” Maxon said. “It’s not a free pass. We hold them accountable.” Tempe Vice Mayor Robin ArredondoSavage, who served three years in the Army, said she is proud of Tempe’s role in bringing veterans courts to the East Valley. “I think we are very fortunate to have the resources to give veterans a second chance. It’s been a great success,” she said.

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12 January 7-20, 2017

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Chandler’s Economic Development Division: A look back through 2016 BY THE CITY OF CHANDLER COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT

business park, hotel, conference center and service retail uses. The Southeast Valley Regional Association of Realtors (SEVRAR), the largest realty association in Arizona, has announced plans to build its new office headquarters in Chandler’s Airpark area. The group has purchased a 3.1-acre site at Chandler Airport Center, near the Loop 202 San Tan Freeway and Cooper Road, for a build-to-suit office and conference facility. The project is expected to be completed in early 2018. In addition, Revelation Realty broke ground on a 20,000-square-foot, $5 million mixed-use facility in the Airpark.

The City’s Economic Development Division hit the ground running (as it does every year) and had an impactful year, bringing new and exciting projects to Chandler. Here are the highlights: Major employer announcements Rogers Corp., an engineered materials solution firm, announced it is moving its global headquarters from namesake Rogers, Connecticut, to Chandler. Rogers’ Advanced Connectivity Solutions division is already in Chandler, and has been in the area for 50 years. Rogers was the City’s first technology company and has a campus near Dobson Road and West Chandler Boulevard, and the relocated operations will move to those facilities. Orbital ATK, one of the world’s leading aerospace and defense technology firms, announced the expansion of the company’s Launch Vehicles Division with the creation of an engineering operations center in Chandler. The company provides launch vehicles for commercial, civil and government customers, and this facility will create up to 500 full-time, high-wage jobs over a fiveyear period. Orbital ATK will be moving into 46,000 square feet in Allred Park Place along Chandler’s Price Corridor. Orbital ATK’s launch vehicle operations began in Chandler in the 1980s and has grown to more than 1,200 employees at two locations in the City. Google selected Chandler as the first city in Arizona for its self-driving car project. Testing fleets are in the cities of Mountain View, California, Austin, Texas and Kirkland, Washington. Google also recently changed the name of the self-driving car initiative to Waymo. Last month, Waymo invited Gov. Doug Ducey and Vice Mayor Jack Sellers to become the first nonemployees to experience a ride in the self-driving vehicle. In addition, the City’s Economic Development Division worked with the company to lease a 39,000-square-foot facility in West Chandler, which will serve as Waymo’s hub for its self-driving car project in the Valley. NXP Semiconductors, formerly Freescale, is in the process of relocating 800 employees from their former Tempe campus to Chandler. This will result in 1,400 jobs in Chandler when completed. Republic Services, a national leader in recycling and waste services, opened its new Customer Resource Center in Chandler. The company’s 72,000-squarefoot facility, located at 2525 W. Frye Rd., is one of three Customer Resource Centers to be established throughout the country to enhance service and support for Republic Services’ more than 14 million customers and 30,000 employees. Cardinal Financial Company, a mortgage origination company headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina,

Michael Lusick, Choice Hotels/Cambria, Chris Anderson, Hines, Chandler Vice Mayor Jack Sellers and Kevin McAteer, Concord Hospitality Enterprise Company, break ground for the project.

also leased 12,188 square feet in the same building. DaVita Rx, the first and largest full-service pharmacy created specifically for the unique needs of kidney patients, leased more than 75,000 square feet of flexible office space at Chandler Corporate Center. This operation is expected to create 550 to 600 jobs. ARM Inc. leased 13,275 square feet of space for its new Arizona operations at The Park at San Tan, located at 3075 W. Ray Rd. Headquartered in Cambridge, England, ARM is a leader in microprocessor intellectual property. Execute to Win (ETW), a software and management technology company, signed a lease for office space in downtown Chandler. ETW will locate in 4,645 square feet of office space in the First Credit Union Building, and expects to be operational by June. The company has 25 employees, and this new space is expected to accommodate growth to 50 employees by the end of 2017. State Forty Eight LLC, a maker of Arizonathemed and -inspired apparel, found its first permanent home in North Chandler. Retail, entertainment and hospitality Porsche Chandler opened its dealership in the 202 Autopark. This is Porsche’s third dealership in the state and second in Metro Phoenix. In addition, RideNow Chandler relocated and expanded into a new building in the Autopark. Home2Suites by Hilton, located on Queen Creek Road between Price and Dobson roads, opened its first hotel in Arizona earlier this year. The property features 126 rooms. Element Chandler Fashion Center opened this past December. The 107-room hotel includes 600 square feet of meeting space. Element is recognized as an industry leader in the eco-space and offers travelers a fresh, reimagined interpretation of the extended stay hotel experience. Drury Hotel, located on Price Road and the Loop 202, will open in the spring of 2017.

Vice Mayor Jack Sellers with Waymo’s Jennifer Haroon, head of business operations, self-driving cars. Sellers took a ride around downtown Chandler in a self-driving car.

The property will feature 210 rooms and will be Chandler’s tallest building. Cambria Hotels & Suites hosted a groundbreaking ceremony at Chandler Viridian on the Price Corridor. Slated to open this year, the facility will feature 136 rooms and 1,300 square feet of meeting space. The hotel will be part of Chandler Viridian, a 25acre mixed-use project (formerly known as Elevation Chandler). A Texas-based dine-in movie theater, Alamo Drafthouse, opened its first Arizona location on the northeast corner of Arizona Avenue and Chandler Heights Road. Blue 32, will open a new restaurant in the same shopping center, later this month. A new Fry’s Marketplace opened in Gilbert and Ocotillo roads. Complete with

Health care Dignity Health expanded patient services by partnering with Kindred Healthcare to open the Dignity Health Rehabilitation Hospital. The two-story, 58,000-square-foot facility will include a stroke unit, physical therapy gym and 50 beds to serve patients recovering from stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury and similar medical conditions. Located at 1515 W. Chandler Blvd., it is expected to employ about 190 staff members. Other initiatives The City became an official partner of the Export-Import Bank of the U.S. (EXIM), making it easier for Chandler businesses to sell their goods internationally. The bank is the official export credit agency of the United States and facilitates the export of U.S. goods by

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny, city councilmembers and staff from Republic Services and the Chandler Chamber celebrate the grand opening of Republic Services with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

a wine bar, sushi chef and coffee stand, it’s more than your average grocery store. A handful of new restaurants opened in downtown Chandler including: Crisp Greens, La Bocca, Modern Margarita, 55 Chicago, The Brickyard and Sammies. Development, redevelopment and downtown Ryan Companies has plans to develop Site 6 (now known as Chandler 87) in downtown Chandler. The 4.25-acre site is located directly across from City Hall on the northwest corner of Chicago Street and Arizona Avenue. Chandler 87 will consist of approximately 169,000 square feet of office space with an additional 8,000- to 10,000 square feet of retail. The former Covance research and development facility (vacant since 2012) was recently purchased by a joint venture between Walton Street Capital LLC and Clarius Partners LLC. The new owners are on track to reposition the property (The HUB) into a Class A, creative office environment through an estimated $35 million renovation project. The building and adjacent land provide an opportunity for either a single-user corporate campus or multiple office tenants. The City Council approved the Allred Park Place project, a 73-acre parcel located at the northeast and southwest corners of Price and Willis roads, which will include a

offering a variety of financing tools. Chandler was the first city in Arizona to establish an official partnership with EXIM. As a result, staff will organize two EXIM seminars per year, which will be open to local companies, and a handful of companies have already participated in these events. The City Council adopted an Adaptive Reuse Overlay District to facilitate the reuse of existing underperforming/underutilized retail buildings and properties. Qualified adaptive reuse projects will be able to take advantage of modified development standards, and a streamlined review/ approval process that makes project timeframes and costs more predictable. The City’s Economic Development Division hosted a successful Chandler Science Spectacular in downtown Chandler. The event was sponsored by Intel, and thousands were in attendance to experience a whole new side of science. Organizers have committed to participating in the 2017 event, which is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 18. The Economic Development Division also is partnering with Arizona@Work Maricopa County for a Chandler Career Fair. A diverse set of Chandler companies with job openings are expected to participate. Mark your calendar for 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, Jan. 19, at the Chandler Community Center. For more information, visit chandleraz.gov/ED.

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City of Chandler Insider

January 7-20, 2017

EMPLOYEE PROFILE Introducing Mr. ‘Jimmy Smooth’ BY THE CITY OF CHANDLER COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT

Chandler has developed a strong reputation as a leader in the high-tech industry. In fact, it’s been tapped as the innovation and technology hub of the Southwest. It all started with the vision of prior Chandler mayors and councilmembers. Each year, that initial vision continues to grow through the enthusiastic support of the existing mayor and council and the diligent work of City staff in the Economic Development Division. One staff member who recently celebrated his 10-year anniversary with the Economic Development Division is James Smith, best known as “Jimmy Smooth” among City staff. Smith got his nickname during a networking event, when a well-known East Valley leader who shall remain

nameless referred to him as Jimmy Smooth (instead of James Smith). City staff were present, and the name lives on. Even Economic Development Director Micah Miranda referred to Smith as “Jimmy Smooth” as he presented him with a 10-year service award at a recent Council meeting. Now a part of the division’s management team, Smith began his career with the City of Chandler after working for the Mineta San José International Airport in California. At the Bay Area airport, Smith began with overseeing the operating budget for the organization, and later supported the airport’s business development initiatives, primarily those related to securing additional air service. He is proud to have worked on bringing James Smith

James Smith and Team Chandler during the groundbreaking for Cambria Hotel & Suites at Chandler Viridian.

JetBlue to the airport. Not surprising, he was more interested in the economic development side than the budget/ operations side of the business. That being said, his family was looking to move to Arizona, and he was on the lookout for a new opportunity to work solely in the economic development field. He came across an opening for the City of Chandler as an economic development specialist. He applied and has been with the division ever since. As a program manager, Smith and the team work to attract businesses to Chandler, help new businesses get established and operational and help existing business with any issues affecting

James Smith, also known as “Jimmy Smooth,” received a 10-year service award during a November 2016 council meeting. His wife, Melissa Smith, and his children were present.

their operations or expansion plans. During his first few years in Chandler, he focused on retail projects, and his scope has since expanded. “Chandler is a stellar community, and every day, I have the opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects,” Smith said. “The City truly sells itself.” It’s difficult for him to select his favorite project that he helped bring to fruition. “There are so many highlights that come to mind,” Smith said. “It was great seeing the PGA Tour Superstore locate in Chandler.” At the time, it was one of the first 10 or so stores open in the country, and even now, there are less than 30 stores nationwide. He also mentions some recent endeavors: the DaVita Rx and Republic Services locates as well as the Rogers and Orbital ATK expansions. Smith also is proud to have worked with developers and brokers to eliminate many of the “eyesores” the media has covered in recent years. These include the former Elevation Chandler site (Loop 101 and Frye Road), the former Food for Less/SwapSmart (Alma School and Warner roads), which has been redeveloped as multifamily housing, Chandler Crossings (where Alamo Drafthouse recently opened), the former Mervyn’s (Alma School and Elliot roads), which is being renovated to accommodate a furniture store, and a former motel and gun shop in North Chandler. Smith earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from San Jose State University. He’s been married for nearly 14 years to wife, Melissa, and enjoys spending time with his family of four children: Hayley, Mattie, Reagan and Caleb. He’s also served as a baseball coach for his son’s i9 sports teams and is busy with his daughters’ soccer, music and choir practices and performances. Smith also is a huge sports fan and roots for the Diamondbacks and Cardinals. Prior to moving to Arizona, Smith, a California native, was an Oakland Raiders fan. We’re glad he’s now a part of the #RedBirdGang and grateful for his role in making Chandler the city it is today.

14 January 7-20, 2017

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January 7-20, 2017

Kyrene school board confronts a $5 million problem BY PAUL MARYNAK

Less than an hour after they approved the creation of the district’s first pre-K-8 campus, its first International Baccalaureate program and more early education offerings, Kyrene governing board members learned they may face a $5 million hole in five years. The sobering news came from Jeremy Calles, district chief financial officer, who explained that a combination of cuts and new revenue will be needed to fill that hole so Kyrene can maintain a $15 million reserve fund. “If we get below that $15 million, it gets extremely difficult to hold on to our credit rating,” Calles said. And that means bad news for homeowners in Tempe and Chandler covered by the district, he noted. “If we were to get downgraded on our credit rating, that means our interest rate goes up on all outstanding debt,” Calles said. “If our interest rate goes up, that interest rate is covered by tax rates—which means our secondary tax rate goes up and all us homeowners have to pay more money.” Kyrene currently has the highest credit rating that two agencies, Moody’s and Standard & Poors, will give to any school district in Arizona. Calles grimly admitted he was

bearing bad news at a meeting where the board approved a series of plans aimed at not only stabilizing the district’s enrollment but attracting new students as well. Kyrene’s enrollment has dropped by 400 students—which means a loss of state per-pupil revenue totaling $2 million. The plan includes: Converting Kyrene Traditional Academy at the Sureno campus in Chandler into a school where students could remain from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. A second school may also be turned into a pre-K-8 campus. Starting next year to introduce an IB program at Kyrene Middle School in Tempe, a process that would take three years to complete. Currently offered at more than 1,370 schools in the U.S., the IB program highly regarded for setting high standards and emphasizing creative and critical thinking. IB students are responsible for their own learning, choosing topics and devising their own projects, while teachers act more as supervisors or mentors. “It’s what progressive schools need to do,” remarked outgoing board member Ross Robb. Continue the pre-K dual-language

program at Norte and Lagos schools and the K-5 dual-language academy at both sites. A 6-8 grad dual-language program would be enhanced at Kyrene Middle School next year. Expand the district’s early education program by starting one at C.I. Waggoner in Tempe. Calles said a number of factors threaten to eat away at Kyrene’s reserves, though the enrollment decline appears to be exacting the biggest toll. Another new cost comes out of the newly approved voter proposition increasing the minimum wage to $12 by 2020. That not only will affect Kyrene employees but also its vendors’ workers and could cost between $1 million and $1.5 million in additional wage expense next year, Calles said. The district is also trying to come up with a sufficient set of raises for teachers to improve retention rates. And the state Legislature’s funding actions also loom large in Kyrene’s long-term financial picture. Other than an enrollment increase, any other long-term budget solution would have to “come from is the generosity of the Legislature, and we have no reason to believe that is going to materially change,” Robb said. He cited the program changes that

the board had just OK’d and said that those and other improvements could spark an enrollment increase over the next five years, “and then those reserve figures don’t start looking so bad.” But Robb said the board had little choice but to act boldly on efforts to attract new students or face “death by a thousand cuts.” “We’re either all-in on these big, bold programmatic changes or we’re not,” he added. Board member John King was distressed by Calles’ report, and said the board faced some difficult decisions. He insisted that curriculum cuts would not work and might even be counterproductive. “If we start slicing and dicing curriculum, it’s going to have a direct impact on everything else we’re doing,” he said. Board President Bernadette Coggins said some of Calles’ projections also are based on some tentative spending that could be lowered. As far as the Legislature is concerned, Calles said Kyrene might get a slight bump if it approves some $50 million it reportedly is considering on giving to K-12 schools. Kyrene’s share would be 1.5 percent of that for a total of $750,000.

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Anyone challenged by hearing loss is invited attend this presentation for education, sharing and refreshments. Park in the church lot next to the library. For additional information, call 602-6523000, and ask for the Ed Robson Branch, or email halib72@gmail.com.

Rotary programs in January The Rotary Club of Sun Lakes is hosting weekly meetings on Tuesdays throughout January. Below is a list of featured speakers and topics. Tuesday, Jan. 10: Liz McNabb from Select Physical Therapy will talk about the importance of physical therapy as it relates to seniors. McNabb earned her master’s in physical therapy from the University of Southern California. Select Physical Therapy offers physical therapy, hand therapy and sports medicine. Tuesday, Jan. 24: Rotarian Frank Wiley will present the history of water in Arizona. Tuesday, Jan. 31: Dave Voorhees will give a talk and a tour of the Pima Utility water plant. Voorhees has been with Pima Utility for over 25 years and

has witnessed the major changes and challenges Sun Lakes has faced. He will give a brief talk about the history of water at Sun Lakes and the water recycling plant. For those who want to do a tour of the plant, one will be conducted at the plant following the meeting. The Rotary Club of Sun Lakes meets for breakfast every Tuesday at 6:30 a.m. in the Oakwood Country Club Ballroom. The meetings start at 7 a.m. and end promptly at 8 a.m. Cost of breakfast is $12. To make reservations for any meeting, contact Rotarian Fred DePrez at 480-892-7499. Sun Lakes residents who want to know more about the club can contact Charles Loew at 602-721-3680. SunBird residents should contact Walt Mills at 480-883-8007.

Each January, the City of Chandler hosts a series of events that honor Chandler’s diverse community, the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement. This year’s Celebration of Unity events include a play, musical performance, the 22nd annual Chandler Multicultural Festival and the 17th annual Creative Expression competition. The weekend series of events attract more than 10,000 attendees each year. Sponsorship opportunities for the

Unity events are available and range from $500 to $10,000. For a list of benefits associated with each sponsorship level, visit chandleraz.gov/unity. Interested sponsors can also call 602-782-2214 or email niki.tapia@chandleraz.gov. For more information on the annual Celebration of Unity, visit chandleraz. gov/unity and connect with the Diversity Office on Facebook at facebook.com/ ChandlerDiversityOffice.

Pedestrian hit crossing Warner Road The Chandler Police Department responded to a vehicle and pedestrian collision involving a baby on Warner Road, just east of the Dobson Road intersection, on Thursday, Dec. 29. When first responders arrived, they found an 11-month-old baby and a 45-yearold female with injuries. Both were transported to the hospital with serious injuries. Investigators have learned the 45-year-old was crossing Warner Road southbound just east of Dobson Road when she was struck by a vehicle that had just pulled out of a private driveway on the southeast corner of the intersection

to go eastbound onto Warner Road. It is also being reported the woman was pushing a stroller but was holding the baby at the time of the collision. Eastbound Warner Road was restricted to one lane just east of the intersection after the accident occurred. The department’s Accident Investigation Team arrived on scene to complete the investigation. There were no signs of impairment and the vehicle involved was traveling at a relatively slow speed when the collision occurred. The pedestrian was not crossing at the crosswalk or intersection.

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Chandler seeks sponsors for Celebration of Unity

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January 7-20, 2017

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20-year old man shot in Chandler A 20-year-old man was shot on Wednesday, Dec. 21, as he was standing in the street near Arizona Avenue and Ivanhoe Place in Chandler. The suspect who shot Dominique Vega fled in a gold Toyota four-door sedan. At the time of the incident, the suspect vehicle had distinct damage to the driver’s side rear bumper and no hubcaps. Vega was pronounced deceased at the scene. If you have any information regarding this case, you may contact Silent Witness

at 480-W-I-T-N-E-S-S, 480-948-6377, or 480-T-E-S-T-I-G-O for Spanish speaking. Please reference media case #20162338 .You can also leave an anonymous tip on the silent witness website at silentwitness.org. You remain completely anonymous and could earn up to $200 in a cash reward for information leading to the arrest and/or indictment of the suspect of this crime. You must contact Silent Witness prior to arrest or indictment to be eligible for any reward.

Former school employee arrested for child molestation Former Andersen Junior High School employee Michael Guest was arrested on Dec. 20 by Chandler Police in connection with child molestation accusations. According to a police press release, Guest, a 45-year-old Tempe resident, is accused of molestation between 1998 and 2004 by two males. From 1995 to 1999, Guest was employed by the Chandler Unified School District as an instructional assistant at Andersen Junior High School. Guest then worked as a temporary employee with the City of Chandler from 2000 to 2002 as an afterschool program coordinator at Andersen Junior High School. Guest also worked as a youth basketball referee throughout the East Valley. Michael Guest is being held at the Maricopa County Jail on six counts of

molestation of a child, three counts of sexual conduct with a minor, two counts of kidnapping, and one count of sexual assault.

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Chandler Police seek indecent exposure suspect The Chandler Police Department is asking the public for help in identifying a man who exposed himself to a woman walking north on Arizona Avenue toward Elliot Road at around 6:30 p.m. Dec. 18. During the incident, the victim suffered minor injuries. After the exposure, the suspect fled south to an unknown destination. The suspect is described as a male in his late teens to mid-20s. He was wearing all dark clothing and a beanie cap. The suspect is described as having a baby face and is approximately 5-foot-7 with a thin build. If you have any information regarding the identification of this suspect, or if you may have witnessed this incident, please contact the Chandler Police at 480-782-4130 or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (480-9486377). Silent Witness is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest or indictment of this suspect.

Chandler police are looking for a male in his late teens to mid-20s suspected of indecent exposure.

Chandler community invited to reception honoring new and outgoing Councilmembers Michael Guest

The City of Chandler invites the public to a reception honoring outgoing Councilmen, Vice Mayor Jack Sellers and Rick Heumann, for their eight years of service. The reception will also welcome the incoming Councilmen Sam Huang and Mark Stewart, along with returning Councilwoman Nora Ellen. The reception will be held Thursday,

Jan. 12, at the Vision Gallery, 10 E. Chicago St., starting promptly at 6 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. Afterward, the public is invited to the Installation Ceremony at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers, 88 E. Chicago St. Free parking is available in the City Hall garage, 240 S. Washington St.

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January 7-20, 2017

ASU president paints bleak picture of Arizona’s economy, future BY PAUL MARYNIAK

Arizona is “underprepared” for the disruption that technology will bring to its economy and society in general over the next two decades, Arizona State University President Michael Crow warned recently. Addressing attendees at the East Valley Partnership’s annual economic outlook presentation last month, Crow presented a series of dismal slides on Arizona’s economy as he urged the audience to look “with cold, steely eyes at how competitive you are and not how competitive you were.” He recounted a conversation he had had earlier with the second-highest executive in Google X, who predicted that technology will replace 30% of all current jobs within the next 10 years, and said that those most vulnerable in Arizona are workers with only a high school diploma. Using graphs based on information from a variety of U.S. Census updates and other government and foundation studies, Crow presented a dim picture of the state’s economic position. They showed: Arizona’s Gross Domestic Product in 2015 was $265 billion—$10 billion less than it was nine years ago. He warned that would not likely improve significantly given that real estate and government are the state’s two largest

sources of economic output. Arizona’s per capita GDP—a major measure of the standard of living in a state—has steadily fallen since 2007 and hit a 15-year low in 2015. Per capita personal income in Arizona last year has steadily fallen since 1970 and was lower than Detroit’s last year. He said Detroit is one example of a city that had turned the corner of economic decline by becoming a “knowledge-driven economy.” To stress the relationship between economic performance and education, Crow presented graphics showing that among Western states, only New Mexico had a lower rate than Arizona of people over 25 with a bachelor’s degree. The highest rate is in Colorado, followed by Washington and California. “College graduates come here to retire, not to work,” Crow said, noting that Arizona is the second-lowest state in the nation for per-capita support of higher education. New Hampshire is at the bottom. Crow outlined the connection between research and education and overall economic prosperity with a series of graphics that showed: Per capita spending by business and higher education for research in Arizona was less than $5,000, making the state 18th in the nation for such expenditures.

Among major cities, Phoenix ranked 18th in the number of patents issued for new inventions. Crow called that statistic “an indicator of inventiveness and creativeness.” “Inventiveness in this region is too small,” Crow asserted, noting that Phoenix was second-last in the percentage of change since 2001 in the number of patents granted in metropolitan areas. Seattle, San Diego and Provo, Utah, recorded the top three most positive changes. “The community hasn’t grasped this,” Crow said of the Phoenix area. Just as disturbing, he said, is that the number of Arizona companies in 2014, the latest available year, was below the total that existed at the turn of the century. Likewise, the value of venture capital deals in Arizona totaled $987 million in 2015. Not only was that the lowest among Western states, but it was more than 40% below the $1.4 billion in venture capital deals recorded in the state of Washington last year. Those numbers in turn affected the value of exports from Arizona, which ranked well below 15 states, including Texas, California and Washington, the top three states for exports. “It’s nowhere near where it has to be for a robust economy,” Crow said. Crow also said, “We’re not doing a

good enough job with job creation.” He displayed a graphic showing that over the last 40 years, net job creation was relatively flat. “We are one of the most vulnerable states for the technological replacement of jobs,” Crow said, noting that WalMart—one of the state’s biggest employers of people with only a high school diploma or less—will soon have robots taking packages to customers’ cars rather than human beings. He added that Arizona was indeed facing a threat from immigration--but by technology and not human beings.Crow said there is still hope that Arizona can turn around these bleak economic trends, but only if it changes its mindset in the next five years by launching a “world-class engineering school” and developing strategies to build a strong investment strategy and unify the business community around it. He said that over the next five to 15 years, Arizona could develop a leading economy in the United States if it develops “an innovation ecosystem” on par with the communities that surround the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Stanford University. “All we have to do is decide that we want to do it,” he said, adding that the East Valley possesses the human resources to achieve those goals.

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John Allen celebrates 36 years as a personal trainer BY ALISON STANTON

For more than three decades, John Allen has been passionate about helping people to look and feel their best. Allen, who is owner of John Allen’s Personal Training in Chandler, recently celebrated his 36th anniversary in the industry. “When you’ve been in business that long, it’s because you know what you are doing,” Allen said. He enjoys meeting and working with people of all ages—from teenagers who want to perform better at sports to seniors who want to be stronger. Watching his clients’ transformation is a pleasure, he added. “It brings a smile to my face when they come in one way and leave in another way,” Allen said. He focuses on helping his clients to “train smarter, not harder.” Allen has seen many success stories during his lengthy career. He recalls a female client who came into the gym a few years ago. “She was very overweight and very down on herself, and didn’t know where to turn. I said to her ‘I know you’ve heard this before, but you will get results. We will monitor your nutrition, cardio and training, and if we do, you will get nothing but progress.’” By working with Allen, she lost 65 pounds and gained self-esteem. “We can’t get her out of the gym now.”

In addition to personal training, Allen said he and his staff of six offer group training with up to three people at once. Nutritional counseling is available, too. Allen will peruse someone’s diet and create a personalized eating plan. “We also work with people who are recovering from a sports-related injury,” Allen said. Everyone is given a thorough fitness assessment prior to starting any workouts. “We assess all of their body measurements including their body fat, their blood pressure, their resting heart rate, and then we also check their strength training and see how many sit ups and pushups they can do in 1 minute.” Allen said a reassessment is done six weeks later so that clients can see their progress. “It helps to hold people accountable, because everybody wants their numbers to change.” While some clients want to tone up and lose weight, teenage football players hope their numbers increase, he said. “Everybody comes in with a different goal,” Allen said. People who have resolved to lose weight and get more fit in 2017 are welcome to come in and see him. “Now is a perfect time to come in and see me and start getting in shape.”Allen does not consider heading to his facility daily a “job.” Instead, it’s a “gift.”

“This is not a job, but an art,” he said. “I look forward to coming to work and seeing my clients and helping them. I don’t turn anyone away but will make things work for them.” John Allen’s Personal Training is located at 2915 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 8 in Chandler. The cost is $45 to $60 per session and gift certificates are available. For more John Allen is celebrating 36 years in the personal training business. STSN photos by Kimberly Carrillo information, call 480-917-7270 or visit johnallensaz.com.

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Pet adoption center celebrates 5,000th family BY ADRIANA BECERRA

A Chandler animal shelter is celebrating its 5,000th pet adoption. PetMatch Adoption Center opened just four years ago in Chandler Fashion Center, but is already proving to be a success, said Marketing and Communications Manager Michael Morefield. Morefield said the PetMatch Adoption Center used to be a “puppy mill,” but now shelters dogs and cats for typically about a week before they are adopted. The no-kill center is hoping to change the way people look at shelter animals. “Shelters are scary or loud or depressing, but that’s not always true. People think of shelter animals as sad and broken animals in cages,” said Morefield. “We get to show them that’s not true.” PetMatch Adoption Center is an extension of the Arizona Animal Welfare League & SPCA. Morefield hopes people consider adopting rescue animals because it saves two lives—the rescue animal and the animal that now gets to fill that place in the shelter. “You can rescue and still get that happy puppy or older dog you’re looking for, giving that dog a second chance,” Morefield said. The PetMatch Adoption Center is showing the public that rescue shelters can be a bright, loving place for animals. Morefield said he hopes encouraging the adoption of rescue animals can help end pet stores. “We’re trying to try to stop the influx of puppy mill dogs because of

Nicolas Powell and his mom Leah celebrate the adoption of Isaiah, the 5,000th pet adopted at the PetMatch Adoption Center in Chandler Fashion Center.

the terrible condition they’re raised in,” Morefield said. The Arizona Animal Welfare League & SPCA will continue to house and care for shelter cats and dogs until they find their forever home. Isaiah was the 5,000th animal to find his forever home. The pup spent some time in the main shelter for medical care before heading to the PetMatch Adoption Center. Within a week, he was adopted by Leah Powell. “He gets along very well with our other dogs,” Powell said, “He fits along nicely with our family.” Powell said she found out about Isaiah on Love Pups Pet Rescue, an organization that promotes shelter dogs. She was searching for a dog for her son, Nicolas. “They’re very much bonded already,” Powell said. The Powell family has been adopting rescue animals for the last 20 years. “It’s unfortunate because these dogs are not unwanted but they’re caught in unfortunate circumstances,” Powell said. The Arizona Animal Welfare League & SPCA is run solely on grants and donations, with 88 percent of that going toward the animals, said Morefield. The Chandler center sees around 450 volunteers a year. Morefield said the shelter is always looking for help, whether people want to walk dogs, help in puppy classes or simply spend time with the animals. “Get involved in rescue,” said Powell, “There’s so many dogs out there that need a second chance on life.”

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City hosts career fair for Chandler-based companies The City of Chandler, in partnership with Arizona@Work Maricopa County, will host a free career fair in downtown Chandler from 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, Jan. 19, at the Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave. Local employers will be onsite to recruit new talent and promote available positions. Employers expected to participate in the career fair represent a variety of industries, including technology, financial services, hospitality, healthcare, retail and more. No registration is required for jobseekers. “The City of Chandler and Arizona@ Work Maricopa County are pleased to provide an opportunity for job seekers and prospective employers to meet face-to-face and have the opportunity to connect job opportunities with the right candidates,” said Mayor Jay Tibshraeny.

Interested employers can obtain more information by contacting the City’s Economic Development Program Manager James Smith at 480-782-3033.

January 7-20, 2017

‘You Are Stronger Than You Think’ meant to inspire women The third annual You Are Stronger Than You Think Women’s Event is intended to equip professional Christian women with Biblical wisdom and encouragement for succeeding in life and business. The events are designed to help support women who want to build their careers without losing their faith or family in the process. Stacey Caron, the co-founder of Spellbinders Paper Arts, and Jane Spicer, of Daphne’s Headcovers, both of whom have built multimillion-dollar businesses, will be featured at the event.

The event founder will also award one event attendee through a contest with $1,000 in cash and multiple resources to use toward building a business, ministry or career. The event will take place at Redemption Church - Arcadia Campus at 3330 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21. Cost is $59 for adults and $29 for teens, and includes snacks and giveaways. Lunch is an additional $10, and VIP group registration (for groups of three) is $139 and includes reserved seating, lunch, snacks and giveaways.

Western State Bank donates to the American Cancer Society Western State Bank donated $1,000 to the American Cancer Society on behalf of Western State Bank team members, Kim Koenders, Emma Broe, Olivia Johnson, Randy Mankin, Brett Johnson, Karen Swanson and Sheila Windjue. In October, Western State Bank and Western Equipment Finance revved up the competition with an internal campaign to help battle cancer. Kick Away Cancer was a companywide competition targeted to help raise awareness and donate money to the American Cancer Society. Every team member was appointed to an NFL team and received points based on that team’s

field goal and extra kick points. Teams could submit fan photos for bonus points once a week to add to their team’s score. The Dallas Cowboys were named the winner of Kick Away Cancer and $1,000 was donated to the American Cancer Society on their behalf. Western State Bank is a 114-year-old employee-owned, community bank with assets of more than $900 million. The bank offers superior full-banking services, investments, real estate financing to personal and business customers, as well as nationwide equipment financing services. Western State Bank has locations in Casa Grande, Chandler, Scottsdale, and Sun Lakes.

Career Connectors can help kick-start job search topics, three to four featured hiring companies, networking, resume help, career coaches, LinkedIn coaches and business portraits. For more information, visit careerconnectors.org or call 480-4425806.

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. For a list of upcoming events, call 480-963-4571, visit chandlerchamber. com or email info@chandlerchamber. com. No refunds are available within 72 hours of the event.

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Business Orbital ATK successfully launches NASA’s CYGNSS spacecraft www.SanTanSun.com

Orbital ATK’s Pegasus rocket successfully launched the Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System (CYGNSS) for NASA. It was the 29th consecutive successful mission for the Pegasus rocket since 1997 and the 43rd overall flight of the world’s first privately developed commercial rocket. “We are proud to provide another CYGNSS Satellite Mission Aims to Improve Hurricane Forecasting. successful Pegasus launch for our NASA customer,” constellation will provide scientists and said Rich Straka, vice president and meteorologists with the data necessary general manager of Orbital ATK’s Launch to improve tropical cyclone forecasting Vehicles Division. “Congratulations to the and tracking methods. NASA CYGNSS and Orbital ATK teams on For the first phase of the launch, another great mission.” CYGNSS and the Pegasus rocket were Pegasus is the leading launch system carried into the atmosphere beneath for the deployment of small satellites Orbital ATK’s “Stargazer” L-1011 carrier into low-Earth orbit. As the only NASA aircraft. They were released from the Launch Services Category 3 vehicle in the plane at approximately 39,000 feet, and small-launch class, Pegasus is certified to then the Pegasus motors ignited, carrying launch NASA’s most valuable satellites. CYGNSS to its intended 35-degree orbit so The CYGNSS constellation of eight the constellation will be able to survey the satellites is a NASA Earth System Science mid latitudes where most cyclones form. Pathfinder Mission that will collect As an air-launched system, Pegasus spaceÐbased measurements of the inner has unparalleled flexibility to operate core of tropical cyclones. The CYGNSS from virtually anywhere on Earth with

January 7-20, 2017

minimal ground support requirements. This was the first Pegasus mission in 12 years to launch from Cape Canaveral. Pegasus missions have been conducted from six separate sites in the United States, Europe and the Marshall Islands. “As a vertically integrated launch system, Pegasus combines key Orbital ATK strengths from multiple locations across the company,” said Scott Lehr, president of Orbital ATK’s flight systems group. The vehicle’s avionics and control systems, solid rocket motors, and composite structures are manufactured at Orbital ATK facilities in Chandler; Dulles, Virginia; Vandenberg Air Force Base, California; and Bacchus and Clearfield, Utah. The solid rocket motors used on Pegasus have also been used in more than 110 other Orbital ATK-built launch vehicles. These include the company’s Orbital Boost Vehicle (OBV) missile defense interceptors, IRBM- and ICBMclass target vehicles, Minotaur space launch vehicles and Hyper-X hypersonic test boosters.

Chandler Arby’s sells for $1.35 million ORION Investment Real Estate has sold the freestanding Arby’s at 2110 N. Arizona Ave. for $1.35 million. Built in 1987 and renovated in 2008, totaling 3,300 square feet, the property is fully occupied by Arby’s. The property is just north of Warner on Arizona Avenue with great visibility. Other tenants in the immediate area include Dunkin’ Donuts, Quick Trip, PGA Golf Tour, and AMF Bowling. Nick Miner, CCIM, senior vice president, and Derek Buescher, vice president at ORION Investment Real Estate, represented the seller in this transaction. “The seller purchased the former East Valley Mall a couple years ago to redevelop,” Miner said. “Part of the plan was to sell off the smaller properties that were already under long-term leases. This is one of the properties. Our marketing efforts produced multiple offers before selecting this buyer.” The building was purchased by Orwell LLC. The seller was East Valley Partners LLC.

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24 January 7-20, 2017

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Eco-wise Element launches in Arizona Marriott International’s Element Chandler Fashion Center recently opened, marking the debut of the ecoconscious brand in Arizona. Element Chandler Fashion Center, owned by Chandler HG LLC, a Glacier House Hotels entity, features 107 light-filled guestrooms and an atmosphere designed to fuel a smart and sustainable stay while maintaining a balanced life on the road. A recognized industry leader in the eco-space, Element offers travelers a fresh interpretation of the traditional hotel experience with natural light and a modern design. This reimagined extended-stay experience is perfect for the traveler who is visiting for a few days or a few weeks. Guests can fuel their day with healthy options from the Rise breakfast stocked with refreshing smoothies, wholesome granola and more, and wind down with the Relax evening wine reception, both of which are complimentary. Spacious studios and one-bedroom suites at Element Chandler Fashion Center offer a fluid design of modular furniture, fully equipped kitchens, the signature Heavenly Bed and spa-inspired bathrooms. The hotel also features 600 square feet of meeting space as well as amenities that include the Restore gourmet pantry, the signature Bikes to Borrow program, which offers guests complimentary bikes along with a local trail map, a state-of-the-art

Business East Valley Jewish Community Center places 4.5-acre lot for sale

24-hour fitness center, a heated outdoor swimming pool, and fast and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. “We are excited to launch Element in Arizona, continuing the growth momentum of the brand while meeting a local demand for the healthy, active traveler in the area,” said Paige Francis, vice president, Global Brand Management for Element Hotels. “Element Chandler offers travelers a smart, sustainable option near upscale shops and restaurants, and easy access to the numerous businesses along the Price Road technology corridor. Guests can enjoy clean, modern design and everything they need whether they’re staying with us for two nights or two weeks.” The newly constructed Element is located directly across from Nordstrom and within walking distance to the many other retail stores and dining options in the Chandler Fashion Center. Easily accessible from SanTan Freeway and Loop 101 Price Freeway, Element Chandler Fashion Center is 10 minutes from Wild Horse Pass, 20 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and less than 30 minutes from downtown Phoenix and ASU. Nearby space and technology businesses along the Price Road corridor include Intel, Orbital Sciences Corporation, Space Data and Boeing Iridium Satellite.

The East Valley Jewish Community Center (EVJCC) in Chandler has placed approximately 4.5 acres of undeveloped land adjacent to the center on the market for nearly $1.8 million. The property, located at 868 N. Alma School Rd., is zoned for multifamily residential development, and the sale is being facilitated by Cushman & Wakefield U.S. Inc. The property had been part of a long-term expansion plan for the Center; however, the organization’s board of directors recently reassessed those plans and determined that the current real estate market presented an ideal opportunity to strengthen the center’s finances. The proceeds from the sale will enable the EVJCC to reduce its debt obligations, pay for ongoing center maintenance, create a reserve fund to help with any future emergencies and increase funding for the center’s primary programming and services. “The EVJCC Board will continue to evaluate the center’s location and space needs, and we are considering all our options,” said George Goffman, president of the EVJCC Board of Directors. “By selling this plot of land now, we help ensure that the center has a solid foundation as we move forward. Our mission remains the same, to create a strong, connected community through Jewish values and education.”

Established in 1972, the EVJCC moved to a Chandler retail center on the southwest corner of Alma School and Ray roads in 2005. The center is a hub for social, cultural and educational activities aligned with Jewish values that are available for individuals and families of all races, religions and cultures. Ongoing programs include an early childhood learning center, afternoon enrichment programs and camps for children, youth and teens, and educational and fitness classes for adults. “We strive to be a true Jewish Community Center that is offering both on-site and off-site programs that are valuable, enriching and accessible to all,” said Rabbi Michael Beyo, CEO of the EVJCC. “We are engaging and interacting with more than 500 individuals every week and we continue to add fresh programs, like film screenings, Jewish Life & Living classes, Ladles of Love, and The Challah Factory, to name a few.” Rabbi Michael Beyo added, “The board’s decision to sell this property is a continuation of our journey, not the end. The proceeds will not only strengthen our organization, they will enable us to confidently move forward with our plans for future growth and success as we extend out reach into the community.” For more information about the East Valley Jewish Community Center visit evjcc.org or call 480-897-0588.

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25 Business Real estate powerhouse joins Keller Williams Integrity First Realty www.SanTanSun.com

Shivani Dallas learned many of her business skills by observing her immigrant parents create a wildly popular Indian food restaurant in the San Francisco Bay area. Today the real estate mogul and her team generate $21 million in production annually and are poised to make 2017 their best year yet. She says joining Keller Williams Integrity First Realty is part of her winning strategy for the new year. To understand what drives Dallas and how she reached such an extraordinary level of success, it’s helpful to see where she came from. Dallas was 8 years old when her family left New Delhi. “My parents both had MBAs, but their degrees were not recognized in America,” Dallas said. “They supported our family on $5.50 an hour, which they made together. And they taught by example. It all goes back to customer care. Quality was everything.” Long before reviews on Yelp or Facebook, food critics from newspapers like the San Francisco Chronicle raved about the restaurant. Dallas says customers would often show up hours before it opened and wait in line. Dallas started her real estate career in 2005. She recalls reaching out to several successful women in the industry for advice, but not one called her back. Since then, her mission is to promote and support women. “Women are incredibly appreciative that my door is always open. It’s important

January 7-20, 2017

Real estate powerhouse Shivani Dallas joins Keller Williams Integrity First Realty.

that women serve as a resource to lift other women, not take them down,” she said. She creates an environment of support in the office, as well. “There’s more than enough business to go around. I want people to feel secure and not feel like they’re out there on their own or in competition.” When recruiting team members, Dallas values integrity, a drive to learn and a solid business foundation. “The real estate part of it is a learned skill. As long as that foundation is there, it’s an easy decision for me to make when bringing someone new on board. I look for team members with excellent business skills and client care, who can help the Chandler and Gilbert areas grow.”

Her decision to join Keller Williams Integrity First Realty was based on the company’s culture of learning and support, high levels of technology, proven systems and opportunities to work with elite Realtors. “Part of our job as leaders is to grow more leaders, not more followers. Everybody should be growing and that’s part of the Keller Williams culture, which aligns with my personal beliefs,” she said. “I wanted to be in a company that was two to three steps ahead of me, where I can grow. The better the company I work for; the better I am for my clients. At Keller Williams there is such a strong emphasis on daily education and best practices.” Dallas will be working out of the new Keller Williams Integrity First Realty Gilbert Business Center, scheduled to open in February. “It will be a place of best practices and tremendous opportunities for all agents in the area; they don’t have to be part of Keller Williams to benefit. High-producing agents will be teaching best business practices, the newest systems, and skills to produce optimum results.” Recognized as one of Arizona’s top producers, named “Realtor of the Year,” by SEVRAR, the Southeast Valley Association of Realtors, and listed as one of the best real estate agents in the nation by The Wall Street Journal, Dallas wants to take her team to an even higher level. She says the secret to her success

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is simple. “Always put clients first. If I prioritize and focus on their needs, the referral business is incredibly strong. In the last nine years, more than 90% of my business is from referrals or repeat buyers and sellers.” Dallas is involved with several nonprofit organizations and is particularly proud to volunteer on the board of directors for Care Fund, where she has served since its inception four years ago. “When you do hit a certain level of success, what that means is you are able to freely give. Care Fund exists simply to pay mortgages or rent when a family has a child who is critically, traumatically ill. That’s when people lose their homes. Caseworkers from several Arizona hospitals let us know when a family is struggling to hold onto their home. We step in and assist by paying their mortgage or rent. It’s a tremendous feeling working for something so much bigger than you.” “I think of Shivani as an icon among agents in the Valley,” said Gary Sattelberger, a partner with Keller Williams Integrity First Realty. “For one thing, she’s such a professional. She runs a great business and takes such good care of her clients. Also, she’s involved in realty associations, serves on boards, invests her time and improves the industry overall. She’s out there giving back and helping other people grow their businesses, so she fits so well with the Keller Williams culture. It’s wonderful to have her on board!”

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Business Valley Sleep Center donates $7,000 OnTrac donates 6,323 cans for 102.5 KNIX Million Can Crusade to breast cancer patients 26 January 7-20, 2017

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Shanna, whose last name has been withheld, is a dedicated single mom to two daughters, Resean and Reana. She works in a medical office and is proud to have a job that provides for her children and allows her to help others. A few months ago, Shanna was diagnosed with breast cancer. “I’m normally the one that everyone calls when they need help. This is a very different position to be in, having to ask others for help,” said Shanna. With mounting medical bills, Shanna got the notice that her electricity would be turned off the next day. She had fallen behind on her payments, and she didn’t know where to turn. Thanks to Phoenix area business, Valley Sleep Center, Shanna received the assistance she needed. She was at work when a marketing representative from Valley Sleep Center came to her office and gave her a plastic pink cup that included a flier about its support of an Arizona-based nonprofit called Provision Project, whose mission is to provide financial relief to women in active treatment for breast cancer. After confirming that Shanna was a qualified candidate, Provision Project paid her past due bill. Provision Project was started in 2015 by Mesa resident and breast cancer survivor Jan James. Through her involvement in a large breast cancer support group, James realized that

many women struggle financially during treatment, even if they have insurance. Provision Project provides financial relief for necessities like food, shelter, utilities, transportation and medical payments. Valley Sleep Center partnered with Provision Project because its president, Lauri Leadley, is a breast cancer survivor herself who went through a double mastectomy and chemotherapy. Leadley knows what it’s like to be going through cancer treatment and not being able to work. That’s why on Dec. 12, 2016, Valley Sleep Center donated $7,000 to Provision Project. Leadley says, “We are all in this together.” “Valley Sleep Center’s generosity to Provision Project and the hard work of their staff will help many women going through breast cancer,” said James, founder of the nonprofit organization. “We want those women to focus on fighting the disease, not their creditors. We don’t want them to worry about paying for the necessities of life when their paycheck won’t stretch enough. Provision Project is there to bridge the gap.” Find out more about Provision Project at http://provisionproject.org.

OnTrac, a logistics company specializing in contracting regional shipping services in the Western United States, participated in the ninth annual 102.5 KNIX Ben & Matt’s Million Can Crusade. Last year marked the sixth year of involvement from the OnTrac corporate office in Chandler and the largest donation yet. More than 6,300 cans of nonperishable food were collected by OnTrac OnTrac Marketing Specialist Alessandra Zucker handing employees to help St. Vincent de Paul feed hungry families for off cans to St. Vincent de Paul employee. the holiday season. donated, not only provides much-needed The Million Can Crusade, the largest food, but also a sense of hope, and food drive in the United States, allowed knowledge that someone out there cares the Valley to help Ben and Matt of KNIX enough to help in times of greatest need. to reach their goal of donating 1 million We are truly thankful to everyone for cans of food by Wednesday, Nov. 23. their generosity and support!” From canned food donations and cash donations, 1,573,246 cans were collected and donated to St. Vincent de Paul. In addition to the canned food donation from OnTrac, the logistics company also donated $1,500 at the event kickoff. “One thing that all of us at St. Vincent de Paul believe is that when it comes to truly helping so many people, ‘we are all in this together!’ That is why we feel so blessed to have friends and partners like OnTrac,” said Jamie Bethune, community drives and events manager at St. Vincent KNIX, St. Vincent de Paul and OnTrac celebrate de Paul. “It is certainly overwhelming and the number of cans collected for the Million Can Crusade. inspiring. Each can of food, each dollar

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Youth

January 7-20, 2017

Sports’ most fan-friendly team proves it once again with Fan Fest BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

With the Subway D-backs Fan Fest’s move to Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, the team’s CEO Derrick Hall is promising unprecedented access to players, coaches and broadcasters from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18. “We moved it for two reasons,” Hall says. “No. 1, the date we were looking at was booked here at Chase Field. We preferred the date of Feb. 18, so we checked out Salt River Fields. It worked. Knock on wood, the weather’s perfect. There’s more space and we’re excited about the move. “That’s the perfect time of year for Salt River Fields. The grounds look phenomenal. The grass is ready for Spring Training and for the players. People really enjoy being out at the Spring Training facility.” Hall says that Salt River Fields’ space is conducive to holding an event of this magnitude. “We have larger fields for players to throw to the kids,” he says. “We can use our half fields. There will be more of a flow. There will be quality interactive Q&A sessions with broadcasters, front office staff, players and coaching staff.” D-backs brass is considering different concessionaires, food trucks and anything else festive. “The drawback for me at Chase Field was the grass was not ready,” Hall says. “It was dead and dusty, especially when we close the roof. This is a totally different look and feel. We’re excited about the opportunity.” There is one downfall. “We would label the seats and fans could go and pick out season tickets from here,” Hall says. “But we’ll get around it. We’ll have mapping, and they’ll still have the opportunity to purchase season tickets out there.” One of the most popular parts of Fan Fest is the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation Yard Sale, which has featured $3 T-shirts, 25-cent glasses, $5 baseballs, $30 practice jerseys, $2 bobbleheads, $3 backpacks as well as signage from Chase Field. “Proceeds go to the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation,” he says. “We’re going to expand the yard sale as well. We can now increase the square footage and the amount of merchandise we have to sell there for the foundation.” Gates for the event open at 11 a.m. for season ticket holders and noon for the general public. “We open earlier for season ticket holders,” Hall explains. “They get first dibs for an hour before the actual gates open up to the general public.” Admission is free for Fan Fest, save for autograph sessions with the players for adults. Children 12 and younger will receive free autographs in a special area, while others can receive access to autograph sessions with a donation to the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation.

PHOENIX, AZ - Feb 22: D-backs host the 11th annual Subway Fan Fest . Photo by Brooke Smith/Arizona Diamondbacks

Online autograph presales for specific sessions will be made available to fans prior to Fan Fest. Visit http://arizona. diamondbacks.mlb.com/ari/fan_forum/ fanfest.jsp for more information. It all goes with the Arizona Diamondbacks’ desire to be the most fanfriendly team in sports. “The point is to not really guard our players from anyone,” Hall says. “They’re as fan-friendly as any players I’ve ever seen. They really get it. “The response and feedback from them as been good. They enthusiastically embrace the concept. We never get pushback from them. That’s the way our players are. They like to interact with the fans. We’re very unique in that way, compared to other Major League baseball teams.” Sure, it’s exciting to meet players like Paul Goldschmidt, A.J. Pollock and David Peralta at Fan Fest. Hall finds another bonus. “Anytime we start planning for Fan Fest, we know that the season is right around the corner.”

D-backs Steve Berthiaume hosts Aaron Blair, Braden Shipley, Archie Bradley, and Josh Collmenter on stage at the 11th annual Subway Fan Fest. Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Arizona Diamondbacks

Subway D-backs Fan Fest Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18 Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale 602-462-6500, http://arizona. diamondbacks.mlb.com/ari/fan_ forum/fanfest.jsp,

D-backs Archie Bradley signs autographs for fans at the 11th annual Subway Fan Fest . Photo by Brooke Smith/Arizona Diamondbacks

Youth

28 January 7-20, 2017

www.SanTanSun.com

Stormy’s Corner

Chandler cherishes celebrations throughout the year BY STORMY LIGHT

Throughout the year, Chandler students get excited about traveling and spending time with family and friends. Our community is proud to have such a diverse group of people who share their holiday celebrations. While some students celebrated Christmas, others got ready fo the new year and welcomed other special holidays. Each of these holidays is unique, but a common message of family links all of them. Take a look at some of these upcoming festivals and holidays that will be celebrated in 2017.

Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year takes place on Jan. 28 and is known as the “Spring Festival.” This festival is significant because it honors ancestors. It is said that it is tradition to clean one’s house to sweep away the “bad fortune” and bring in “good fortune” for the upcoming year. Relatives have feasts and light lanterns to celebrate the festive event. International Day of Peace The International Day of Peace takes place on Sept. 21 and focuses on all countries working together to bring peace and make the world a safer place.

Diwali

This holiday takes place on Oct. 19. This celebration is often referred to as the “Festival of Lights.” This beautiful celebration honors the forces of light over the forces of dark. It is tradition to place small clay dishes around the home and light them with tea lights. Nivea Krishnan, a ninth-grader at Hamilton, stated, “My family celebrates Diwali and I really enjoy the celebration and the lights.”

Día de los Muertos

Día de los Muertos or “Day of the Dead” is a Mexican holiday that is celebrated on Oct. 31. The day is often filled with colorful festivals, artwork and ceremonies. Día de los Muertos honors family members who died and encourages loved ones to place food, beverages and pictures at their graves.

Hanukkah

In 2017, this holiday will take place from Dec. 12 to Dec. 20. Hanukkah is known as the “Feast of Dedication” and lasts for eight days and nights. The eightbranched menorah is lit each night and families eat food and play the dreidel. Christmas This holiday is celebrated on Dec. 25 and is a special time to spend with family and friends and give to one another. To those who are religious, the holiday is

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also important because it commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Ninth grader Abby Luma said her family has many traditions. “My family and I always go to Vincitorios for dinner on Christmas Eve, and then we go home and all open one present for the night.” Overall, these distinct holidays are

celebrated all around the world and each person has a story to tell about their family’s festivals and cultural holidays that they celebrate. Stormy Light is a 14-year old Hamilton High School student who writes an occasional column for the SanTan Sun News.

Youth

www.SanTanSun.com

January 7-20, 2017

D’Vine Bistro fundraiser helps Hamilton students, families in need

Chandler soccer referee set to be honored Samuel Rozinski of Chandler will be one of several referees honored by US Youth Soccer in mid-January in Los Angeles. Rozinski was a regional Young Male Referee winner. Known by his peers for his knowledge and enthusiasm for the game of soccer, the 2016 Basha High School graduate is always willing to challenge himself and dig deeper into refereeing, according to the nomination form. On his 17th birthday, Rozinski became a Grade 7 Referee. Rozinski has worked in some significant games, including a girls State Cup Final and the Under-15 Girls Presidents Cup Final. Off the field, Rozinski is in the National Honor

Society and he also received the AP Scholar Award. To give back to his local community, Rozinski coaches a recreational soccer team. US Youth Soccer is the largest youth sports organization in the country and largest member of the U.S. States Soccer Federation, the governing body of soccer in the United States. US Youth Soccer registers more than 3 million players annually, ages 5 to 19, and over 900,000 administrators, coaches and volunteers in 55 member State Associations. US Youth Soccer programs provide a fun, safe and healthy environment for players at every level of the game. For more information, visit www. USYouthSoccer.org.

A wine social at D’Vine Wine Bar and Bistro attracted more than 250 members of the community in support of the Hamilton Homeless Fund. The Dec. 10 wine social featured more than 30 wines, live music, a silent auction and raffle. “We are committed to helping our community and we are overwhelmed with the outpouring of support of our neighbors in need,” said D’Vine owner Robert Coulson, who has agreed to host the event again next year. “We came together and made a difference.” The event proceeds will support 20 families during a housing-related crisis, offer food assistance to 250 students and their families, expand the district’s holiday programs to assist 25 more students and their families and supplement ongoing needs of students for food, clothing and other school and home-related supplies. “We are so grateful to D’Vine for their support and to the members of our

Chandler community. My hope is that this support continues as a longterm commitment,” said Rajani Rastogi, LMSW, the school’s social worker, “Our mission is to ensure no Hamilton student goes hungry, so that these kids can focus on their education.” The Hamilton Homeless Fund was 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 so students can focus on learning. Call 480883-5182 for more information about the Fund. D’Vine is located at 3990 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler.

Why your child’s teeth hurt while in braces - and the new secret for reducing discomfort From Dr. Chamberlain’s Desktop

f you haven’t been through braces then you might not understand the soreness that sometimes accompanies the first few days after the braces are placed on the teeth. For myself, I had braces when I was an adult and the aching gave me the feeling that I wanted to grab my teeth and yank them all out of my mouth. It’s not the most enjoyable experience and no matter Dr. Thomas how we try to downplay it with words like, Chamberlain “you’ll feel uncomfortable,” or, “it will be a little annoying,” it all comes down to the feeling that you will be in some pain. Recently, however, two developments have taken place that have not just reduced the pain, but have removed it altogether! The first development is the bracket design. Traditional brackets have a certain force that is required to overcome the friction of the bracket and the wire that is placed over it. Small elastic ties are placed over the wire to hold it in place. Multiple studies have shown that a light pressure produces faster and more pain free movement of the teeth. Many people want to make their teeth move faster and will ask me to put the hardest, tightest wires and elastics on their teeth so they will move faster. Their thinking is that some pressure

is good, but more pressure must be better. Admittedly, that is the intuitive way of thinking. However, when we look at what is going on in cells within the bone during tooth movement, we soon discover that it is the opposite of intuition. When a heavy pressure is placed on the tooth the side with the pressure has the root of the tooth squeezed up against the bone in the tooth socket. The pressure can be so overpowering that the blood supply to the bone is cut off. It’s kind of like pressing your finger into your skin and it blanches the skin white, or tying a tourniquet on your leg to stop bleeding. Blood flow stops with heavy pressure. We know what happens when we stop blood flow to an area of our body. Things die. They necrose. That is exactly what happens with heavy orthodontic pressure. So new brackets have been designed to drastically reduce those forces. The second discovery to remove pain during braces also has

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to do with blood supply and the dilation of blood vessels in and around the teeth. The theory was that if we could open the blood vessels that are being constricted, then pain would subside and the cellular response to move the teeth would be faster. Today, in our office, we use that technology that not only removes the pain, but helps the teeth move more quickly into position. The technology has been used in physical therapies for a few years now, but we are some of the first in Arizona to develop it with braces and remove the pain that comes in those first few days. If you would like to know more about this technology and how we can help you or your child move their teeth quickly and painlessly, please don’t hesitate to call our office at (480)-899-9423. We are excited to be the first to implement this technology in our community.

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30 January 7-20, 2017

Youth

Enrollment for the 2017-2018 school year Open Enrollment Starts: January 9, 2017

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31 Youth Districts taking first steps toward mandatory CPR training for students www.SanTanSun.com

January 7-20, 2017

BY PAUL MARYNIAK

Imagine having a heart attack when you’re out in public amid a group of strangers and everyone runs away. Now you have some idea why Arizona is requiring mandatory cardiopulmonary resuscitation training as a high school graduation requirement for all public and charter schools by 2019-20. Several East Valley school districts are already laying the groundwork for the training. Mesa plans to start next school year and Chandler Unified anticipates starting it a year ahead of the deadline. “Looks like a good fit for the mandatory health class,” said Chandler spokesman Terry Locke. In Mesa, the state’s largest school system, spokeswoman Helen Hollands said hands-only CPR will become mandatory next school year and will be taught in all physical education classes. “All students must have one PE credit (two semesters) to graduate,” Hollands said. Both Gilbert school systems are still working on a plan. “We have not set this up at this time for our students, but are working to meet the state requirement for 2019,” said Michelle Reese, spokeswoman for the Higley Unified School District. “We are not taking any steps at this time toward CPR training until the legislation is signed and confirmed to move forward,” said Gilbert Public Schools Superintendent Christina Kishimoto. “We have had internal conversations about what this will require for implementation.” The Tempe Union High School District governing board recently approve a policy that will guide the CPR program’s development over the next two years. Tempe Union Superintendent Kenneth Baca told the board the district still has a long way to go. “Where it’s going to be taught, how will we keep track of students who had training in middle school, how we’re going to ensure it’s going to be done properly—those are things we still have to work out,” Baca said. The law is aimed at making bystanders rescuers. It states that by July 1, 2019, charters and districts must “provide public school pupils with one or more training sessions

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in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, through the use of psychomotor skills in an age-appropriate manner, during high school.” The law made Arizona the 32nd state in the union to mandate CPR training for high school students. That means that by the time it takes effect, 61 percent of all high school students in the country will be exposed annually to such training, according to the Sudden Cardia Arrest Foundation. The foundation is aiming for 100 percent. “We believe this widespread implementation of CPR training has many benefits to high school students and the broader U.S. public,” the foundation stated. “High school students are wellpositioned to improve rates of bystander CPR initiation in the United States, and their engagement could reduce deep disparities in regional rates of survival of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest through early initiation of bystander CPR,” it said. In other words, the foundation believes that people who are trained in CPR won’t hesitate to administer the life-saving technique.

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The foundation wants all the states to mandate CPR training in more than 37,000 high schools. It noted that a common assumption is that “mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is the major barrier to bystanders performing CPR.” But a far more common reason, it said, is “panic and discomfort of the bystander.” “Although not proven, it is likely that bystanders trained in CPR are more likely to act and act competently, for example, with the appropriate depth of chest compressions and with less hesitation,” it said. Advocates of mandatory CPR training of high school students emphasize that students are more likely to encounter out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims in shopping malls or among family members at home than among their peers. “Thus, learning CPR is mostly a selfless act both for the individual high school student and for high school students as a group,” the foundation said, stating that aspect may actually reduce resistance to receiving training. A person who has a heart attack

outside a hospital has a 95 percent chance of getting help if he or she is in the presence of someone trained in CPR. “I think this is a good idea,” Tempe Union board member Michelle Helm said of the new state law. Baca noted that the law does not provide any funding for schools to implement the training and that the state has yet to set out a reporting system. “It’s one of those mandates we’re going to figure out as the years pass by,” he told the board. The Tempe Union policy notes that part of the CPR training might involve homework and that it “shall be based on the most current national evidence-based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation.” The instruction must be administered by a certified trainer if students would receive a certificate upon successful completion of the class. “The instruction provided must include the hands-on practicing of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, except for students who are enrolled in an online school,” the policy states. Instruction could come from a wide range of people, including paramedics, police officers, representatives of the Red Cross or American Heart Association or others. Students will be able to get excused from the requirement if a parent objects, if they have disabilities that make it impossible for them to administer CPR or if they’ve already been trained. The foundation said another reason for mandating CPR training for high school students is the disparity in heart attack survival rates between wealthier communities and poor ones. “It is precisely in large, inner-city neighborhoods and poorer U.S. counties where the impact of cardiac disease is disproportionately felt and in these same populations where CPR should be prioritized,” the foundation said.

Youth

32 January 7-20, 2017

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January 7-20, 2017

Teens take to the stage on Jan. 13 Young adults between the ages of 13 and 17 will show off their skills during the Teen Talent Competition on Friday, Jan. 13, at the Chandler Center for the Arts. The talent competition brings out artists that range from vocalists, bands, dancers (individuals and groups) and even magicians. “Some of the artists compose their own music or dance routines, and the genres stretch across the board,”

said Shawn Peoples, a recreation coordinator with the City. “This year, one of our winners from last fall will perform during intermission. She plays the harp and her talents are mindblowing.” The first-place performance in each category will receive a cash prize. The public is invited to attend and general admission tickets are $5 at the door. For more information, visit http:// bit.ly/2it3UjO.

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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona is looking for the next great kid chef to create a delicious and healthy side dish recipe. Finalists will sample their culinary creations at a Phoenix Suns home game and win great prizes. For the seventh consecutive year, the company is on the hunt for original, great-tasting and kid-inspired side dish recipes for the Walk On! Kids Cooking Challenge. The program’s goal is to motivate Arizona’s youngest culinary masterminds to incorporate healthy options into their daily food choices. Children ages 9–12, living anywhere in Arizona, are encouraged to submit their healthy and tasty side dish creations for a chance to win a new bike. Finalists will also have an opportunity to prepare and share their masterpiece at a Phoenix Suns home game. “The Walk On! Kids Cooking Challenge is one of the best ways to impress upon kids that nutrition-rich ingredients can also be great tasting,” said Myrna Collins, health promotion executive, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. “Year after year we are inspired and impressed with the delicious side dish recipes our budding chefs create, and we can’t wait to see what this year’s participants bring.” Contestants can submit recipes anytime until Jan. 25. Recipes must be

an original recipe for a hot or cold side dish; include at least one fruit and/or vegetable; and be able to be cooked within 20 minutes (not including prep time). The top five recipes will be selected based on nutritional value, taste and originality. Finalists will be invited to present their creations at a Phoenix Suns home game Feb. 10 at the Talking Stick Resort Arena. After the cooking demonstrations, recipes will be posted online at walkonaz.com for a public vote. Voting will be open from Feb. 1022. Last year’s contest winner was Briony Campisi, an 11-year-old from Phoenix. Her winning dish was the unique and colorful Rainbow Mango Strawberry Salad Taco. “I entered the contest because I thought I could test my limits,” said Briony. “I’ve been cooking for a long time with my mom, and I thought this contest would be a great way to see what I could do on my own!” Visit walkonaz.com for complete contest details and to submit a recipe. All entries must be submitted no later than Wednesday, Jan. 25. knowledgeable perspective on health insurance reform, and become a part of what we’re doing in your community.

Youth

34 January 7-20, 2017

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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.

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/.

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CHANDLER (Ocotillo) - NOW OPEN Chandler/Gilbert Arc Charitable Tax Fund 3250 N. San Marcos Pl. • Chandler, AZ 85255-7789 For your convenience, you may make your donation on our website: 222.cgarc.org. We also accept Mastercard, VISA, Discover and American Express. Please call Barbara or Toni at (480) 892-9422 for details.

3901 S Arizona Ave, Suite 2 Paseo Lindo Mall, at the corner of S Arizona Ave & Ocotillo Rd (next to Target) Mon – Fri 9am – 9pm / Sat 9am – 6pm / Sun 10am – 5pm

November January57-20, - 18, 2017 2016

A ‘Frozen’ Adventure New Disney show drives ‘Cars,’ princesses and toys to the ice BY MEGHANN FINN SEPULVEDA

When did ice skating spark your interest? Williams: I did a school report on Olympic figure-skater Michelle Kwan, who ultimately inspired me to try ice skating when I was 10. After I began weekly lessons—which were not cheap for my family—it quickly became a passion and allowed me to be where I am today.

WINTER 2016

SanTan Sun News

Elsa and Anna, Lightning McQueen, Ariel and Prince Eric and, of course, Mickey and Minnie will come alive with the action-packed Disney on Ice Presents Worlds of Enchantment Thursday, Jan. 19, to Sunday, Jan. 22, at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Ensemble skaters Benita Williams and Michaella Bradley shared with SanTan Family Fun their passion for ice skating and described what life is like on the road.

Bradley: I was 8 years old when I attended an ice skating birthday party for the first time and was swept off my feet. I begged my mom for lessons and she agreed because she thought ice skating was safer than gymnastics. For me, ice skating was a way in which I could express myself. How did you balance the practice demands while growing up? Williams: I was at the rink so often that I began working there when I was 16. I taught group classes and eventually became a private coach in between my own practice and studying. I also started sewing costumes and editing music for my choreographed performances at competition. After high school, I attended UCLA and received a bachelor’s in physiological science. Bradley: It got to a point where I had to choose between school and skating. My family and I decided that

What’s inside

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SanTan Family Fun Calendar

homeschooling was the best option because it would allow me more time to focus on ice skating and competing. I graduated from Beacon Academy in 2014.

as an opportunity to showcase my ability. In 2015 I was selected to join the cast and began my career with Disney on Ice Presents Treasure Trove.

Explain your ﬁrst audition for Disney on Ice? Williams: I auditioned in Bakersfield, California, in 2014. When I learned that I was selected, I was so excited that I ran down to tell my coach and anyone else who would listen! I joined the cast of Disney on Ice Presents Worlds of Enchantment and toured Western Europe in 2015.

Which scenes do you skate in for Disney on Ice presents Worlds of Enchantment? Williams: I am part of the pre-show, which is really fun and gets the audience up and moving. I also portray a salsa fish in the “The Little Mermaid” and a citizen of Arendelle throughout the Frozen segment. I really aspire to become a principal performer, something that I hope is achievable.

Bradley: I was living in my hometown of Las Vegas when I learned about the audition. I was nervous but I looked at it

Bradley: As an ensemble skater, I portray an enemy under the sea in “The Little Mermaid,” a green army soldier in “Toy Story” and a citizen of Arendelle in “Frozen.” What’s life like on the road? Williams: This tour started in October and will continue through May. We usually have four or five days in each city including time on the ice to practice and get a feel for the venue. The cast is so loving and it’s a really fun environment. Bradley: It’s a great opportunity to see the world and get to do what I love. I was always intrigued by this show. I hope to someday become a principal performer and portray Jessie from “Toy Story” because I can identify with her—she’s full of energy, positive, wild and bright! IF YOU GO What: Disney on Ice Presents Worlds of Enchantment When: Various times Thursday, Jan. 19, to Sunday, Jan. 22 Where: Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix Cost: Tickets start at $11.25 Information: 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com

November January 7-20, 5 - 18, 2017 2016

JANUARY 2016 Railway Museum 7 Arizona ImprovMANIA Monthly Family Bird Walks Zoppé an Italian Family Circus

13 ImprovMANIA Tumbleweed Tots Chandler International Film Festival,

20 ImprovMANIA Tumbleweed Tots Art Walk Friday Feeding Frenzy

Arizona Railway Museum

14 ImprovMANIA

Chandler International Film Festival Chandler Multicultural Festival Maker Days: All About Camera

Railway 21 Arizona Museum ImprovMANIA Paws 2 Read

Railway 28 Arizona Museum ImprovMANIA

ImprovMANIA Drumline Live Food Foraging – Native Plants

Arizona Railway Museum Zoppé an Italian Family Circus

Arizona Railway Museum Chandler International Film Festival

Arizona Railway Museum The King: The Music of Elvis

29 Arizona Railway Museum Chandler Symphony – “To Jupiter and Beyond,”

10 Tumbleweed Tots

Lego Club STEAM Club Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

Tumbleweed Tots

Lego Club STEAM Club Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

24 Tumbleweed Tots

Lego Club STEAM Club Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

Always call to verify information as some events change or cancel after the calender is printed.

Tots 12 Tumbleweed Chandler Farmers Tumbleweed Tots

Market Full Moon Nature Hikes Internet Safety for Parents Lego Club Tumbleweed Tumble Tots

18 Tumbleweed Tots Family Night at the TRC

Farmers Market 19 Chandler Lego Club Community Nights in the Courtyard: Jump into a Healthy New Year Sonoran Sunset Series – Battle of the Bands winner STEAM Club Tumble Tots 26 Tumbleweed Chandler Farmers Market

Merry Christmas!

Lego Club STEAM Club Community Nights in the Courtyard: Madden Night

31 Tumbleweed Tots

Lego Club STEAM Club

Send family events and activities to STFF@SanTanSun.com

Classic Santa theme park reopens in Skyforest BY RANDY MONTGOMERY

The holidays may be over, but you can celebrate all year with the newly reopened SkyPark at Santa’s Village in the community of Skyforest, near Big Bear, California. It’s a mere five-hour drive from downtown Phoenix, on the scenic Rim of the World Highway. Santa’s Village opened Memorial Day weekend 1955 (one month before Disneyland). After 43 years, the theme park closed in 1998. Having sat vacant for almost 20 years, visitors can once again experience the year-round holiday spirit. Owners Bill and Michelle Johnson have and tastefully restored the buildings on property. While some of the classic attractions are gone, new ones have been

added, and others will open this year. The iconic feel of the 15-acre park has been preserved, rekindling nostalgia for those that visited years ago. Stroll the grounds and wander through the many gift shops and eateries. Attractions include a visit to Santa’s House, an ice-skating rink, a bouldering room, a climbing tower, a bike track for kids, crafts, a train ride and various other experiences. “Arrow’s Adventure” offers a pedal car ride though a magical tunnel and around Castle Pond. “Gatherings,” a beautifully designed sitdown restaurant serves up contemporary cuisine in a cozy, rustic setting. Make sure and get a cookie from the Gingerbread

House bakery! The mint chocolate cookie was to die for! The staff is incredibly friendly and go out of their way to ensure you are having a great time. Various shows and storybook readings take place throughout the day. When the sun sets, characters gather for a parade and tree lighting. Future attractions include the reopening of the classic Bumble Bee Monorail, which will be pedal powered. A zip line, and hiking/mountain bike trails are being added, utilizing a portion of the property’s additional 200-plus acres. SkyPark at Santa’s Village is low capacity, outdoorsy and hands-on, and is not Disneyland—don’t expect it to

be. You can show up 5 minutes prior to the parade without a crowd, employees will remember you as you walk around the park, and if you want a photo with a character, there isn’t an outrageous line. Plan a day trip to SkyPark at Santa’s Village, or make a vacation out of it by staying in one of the neighboring communities. Check SkyPark’s website for hours, tickets, attractions and road conditions, as the park is situated at nearly 6,000 feet in elevation! SkyPark at Santa’s Village 28950 CA-18, Skyforest, CA skyparkatsantasvillage.com

November January57-20, - 18, 2017 2016 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29 Arizona Railway Museum, noon-4 p.m. Visit Chandler’s railway museum at Tumbleweed Park. The Arizona Railway Museum was founded and incorporated in 1983 as a nonprofit, educational and historical organization. The museum is dedicated to the railways of Arizona and the Southwest. The interest and fascination of railways and trains has no boundaries and so railways of all kinds are included in the scope of the museum. Arizona Railway Museum, 330 E. Ryan Rd., Chandler. Display yard and building free; display cars $2 per person or $5 per family/group. For information, call Tim at 480-833-4353 or Bart Barton at 480-831-6520, azrymuseum.org. 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 ImprovMANIA, 7 p.m. Join ImprovMANIA every Friday and Saturday night for a familyfriendly comedy show. ImprovMANIA’s improv comedy shows are fast-paced, live comedy shows made up on the spot based on audience suggestions like the show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” Prepare for a night of laughter in downtown Chandler. ImprovMANIA, 250 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. $10 per person. 480699-4598, improvmania.net. 7 Monthly Family Bird Walks, 8 a.m.-noon. Desert Rivers Audubon leads free guided birdwatching tours through Veterans Oasis Park the first Saturday of every month from November to April. One-hour walks begin every 30 minutes. Be prepared for the outdoors! Sun protection, closed-toe footwear, and ample drinking water are highly recommended. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2889, chandleraz.gov/ eec 7, 8 Zoppé an Italian Family Circus, 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday, 1 p.m. Sunday. The Zoppé Family Circus welcomes guests into the intimate 500-seat tent for a one-ring circus that honors the best history of the Old-World Italian tradition. Starring Nino the clown, the circus is propelled by a central story (as opposed to individual acts) that feature acrobatic feats, equestrian showmanship, canine capers, clowning and plenty of audience participation. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Tickets $15-$40. 480-782-2680, chandlercenter.org. 9, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 27, 30 Tumbleweed Tots, 12:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. This indoor play area is designed for children 5 years of age and younger to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $3 fee. 480-782-2900, chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed. 10, 17, 24, 31 Lego Club, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Come meet new friends and have fun building with Lego. Lego supplied, imagination required. No registration required. Lego Club is a Vertex program, where Chandler Public Library intersects with STEAM and makerspace. Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Free. 480782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org. 10, 17, 24, 31 STEAM Club, 4-5 p.m. Come to the Chandler Library STEAM Club and have fun every Tuesday with science, technology, engineering, art and math. Play games, dig up dinos, weird science, fun crafts, Lego cars and more. Win prizes just for showing up! Ages 6-11. STEAM Club is a Vertex program, where Chandler Public Library intersects with STEAM and makerspace. Downtown Library Copper Room, 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. 480-7822800, chandlerlibrary.org.

10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26, 31 Tumbleweed Tumble Tots, 9 a.m.-11 a.m. This indoor play area is designed for children 5 years of age and younger to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $3 registration fee. 480-7822900, chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed. 12, 19, 26 Chandler Farmers Market, 3 p.m.-7 p.m. The market offers fresh local produce, prepared goods, desserts and some crafts on select days. All items are grown in Arizona or are home-made from local vendors. 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Free. chandlerfarmersmarket. com. 12 Full Moon Nature Hikes, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Come and join us for this 60-minute, moon-lit hike of Veterans Oasis Park and learn about the Environmental Education Center, the park facilities, water conservation and native plants and animals. Along the way, look and listen for the creatures that come out only after sunset as temperatures begin to drop. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $3 to $5 fee. 480-782-2889, chandleraz.gov/eec. 12 Internet Safety for Parents, 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Are your children safe on the internet? Join for an informative presentation by the Arizona Attorney General’s Office and learn about the potential threats that the internet and social networking sites may bring to children. Learn about cyberpredators and how they operate. Also covered are cyberbullying and sexting. Maricopa County Library Queen Creek Branch, 21802 S. Ellsworth Loop, Queen Creek. mcldaz. org. 12, 19, 26 Lego Club, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Come meet new friends and have fun building with Lego. Lego supplied, imagination required. No registration required. Lego Club is a Vertex program, where Chandler Public Library intersects with STEAM and makerspace. Downtown Library Copper Room North, 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org. 13, 14, 15 Chandler International Film Festival, The Chandler International Film Festival (CIFF) is an award competition and screening festival with an annual event in downtown Chandler in January. For each month, the Official Selection and Category Winners are announced on its website. The goal of CIFF is to support creative, emerging filmmakers from all over the world and their projects. CIFF will be screening over 100 films at this event. These unique, creative, and diverse films come from passionate and independent filmmakers from all over the world. The three-day festival will include red carpet and opening ceremony on Friday, special prime shows with dinner, audience choice awards and award ceremony on Sunday. Filmmaker workshops and afterparties hosted at Soho63. SoHo63, 63 E. Boston St., Chandler. $15 for a single movie, $39 for Friday Pass and $125 for three-day pass. chandlerfilmfestival.com. 14 Chandler Multicultural Festival, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. This event is part of Chandler’s annual Celebration of Unity events scheduled for the month of January. A collaboration between Chandler Men of Action, East Valley Jewish Community Center, Chandler Center for the Arts, Friends of the Library, Human Relations Commission and the City of Chandler, the event presents an extensive variety of community activities. Chandler Fashion Center 3111 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. Free. chandleraz.gov/special-events

14 Maker Days: All About Cameras, 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Maker Days is a Vertex program, where CPL intersects with STEAM and Makerspace. Come explore science, technology, engineering, art and math with interactive technologies and hands-on activities fun for the whole family. See what you can do with GoPro video cameras, get silly with the green screen, or dance until you drop with the Xbox Kinect. Downtown Library Copper Room North, 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org. 15 Desert Dance Theatre – “Sister Moses: The Story of Harriet Tubman,” 7 p.m. “The Story of Harriet Tubman” profiles this courageous woman’s determination to free her people from slavery through the Underground Railroad. She was one of America’s first liberated women of color, who fought against all odds for the sake of freedom and equality. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Tickets $15 to $25. 480-7822680, chandlercenter.org. 18 Family Night at the TRC, 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. The first and third Wednesdays of the month enjoy a variety of different recreational activities and entertainment for the family. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $5 registration fee. For more information contact Michael Fenzel, 480-7822908. chandleraz.gov/registration. 19 Community Nights in the Courtyard: Jump into a Healthy New Year, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Come on out to the Downtown Chandler Community Center and enjoy a healthy start to the new year with family and friends. The City of Chandler has partnered with the Carrington College of Arizona and Avalon School of Cosmetology where it will have opportunities for free massage therapy and information on building a starting point for health care and cosmetology careers. Also, instructors for all ages will host demonstrations of the many health classes that are being offered at the Community Center. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. Free. chandleraz.gov/registration. 19 Sonoran Sunset Series – Battle of the Bands winner, 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Now in its eighth season, the Sonoran Sunset Series features free, live, lakeside entertainment suitable for the entire family. Guests may bring blankets, chairs and food. Performances are held at the lakeside amphitheater in Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2889, chandleraz.gov/eec 19, 26 STEAM Club, 4 p.m.-5 p.m. Come to the Chandler Library STEAM Club and have fun every Tuesday with science, technology, engineering, art and math. Play games, dig up dinos, weird science, fun crafts, Lego cars and more. Win prizes just for showing up! Ages 6-11. STEAM Club is a Vertex program, where Chandler Public Library intersects with STEAM and makerspace. Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org. 20 Art Walk, 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. The Art Walk provides a fun, family atmosphere where patrons can browse the many different types of art available from talented artists. It is a monthly event featuring local artists and musicians, and is a great opportunity to visit the unique establishments in downtown Chandler. Every third Friday, downtown Chandler welcomes more than 50 local artists to the historic square. All artists must go through a jury process to be accepted in the Art Walk. Only fine art and fine craft submissions will be considered. TechShop Chandler, 249 E. Chicago St., Chandler. Free. chandlerartwalk.com.

20 Friday Feeding Frenzy, 3:30 p.m.-4 p.m. Ever wondered what the live animals at the EEC eat for dinner? Ever seen a snake stalk its prey? Join the EEC staff on the third Friday of each month for a live animal feeding. Meet the animals in the nature center and learn about their diets. Stick around and watch the animals being fed. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Free. 480782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec. 21 Paws 2 Read, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Join a registered therapy dog who loves stories. Children ages 5 and older are invited to read their favorite book to the special library dog. Maricopa County Library Perry Branch, 1919 E. Queen Creek Rd., Gilbert. mcldaz.org. 22 The King: The Music of Elvis, 3 p.m. Elvis Presley was The King and he changed American music forever. Celebrate thrilling performances of his greatest hits, including “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Love Me Tender,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” “Hound Dog” and more with a 12-piece orchestra. These are not Elvis impersonators; these are four Broadway and cabaret singers that bring a new twist; shake, rattle and roll to the classic hits of The King. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Tickets $48 to $58. 480-782-2680, chandlercenter.org. 26 Community Nights in the Courtyard: Madden Night, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. NFL Madden Football video game tournament for youth and teens. Games will be played in the community center courtyard with the semi-finals and finals played on the giant projection screen. Prizes will be given to top performers. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. $8 to $11. For more information, please contact Shawn Peoples at shawn. peoples@chandleraz.gov or 480-782-2746. 28 Drumline Live, 8 p.m. This show-stopping attraction, created by the team behind the hit movie “Drumline,” brings the historically black college and university marching band tradition to the theatrical stage. With riveting rhythms and bold beats, this versatile group of musicians and dancers brings explosive energy and athleticism to the marching band experience. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Tickets $38 to $46. 480-782-2680, chandlercenter.org. 28 Food Foraging – Native Plants, 8 a.m.-10 a.m. Since people have been on Earth, there has been a relationship between humans and plants. Take a guided walk through Veterans Oasis Park and learn about the importance of native plants to culture, food, medicine, tradition, crafts, and music. The terrain is easy and will teach you the study of ethnobotany. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $9 to $13 fee. 480-782-2889, chandleraz.gov/eec. 29 Chandler Symphony – “To Jupiter and Beyond,” 3 p.m. Every year, Music Director Jack Herriman and Associate Conductor Alex Zheng lead volunteer musicians from all around the Valley in a pops concert and five classical concerts, including a spring concert that showcases the winner of the annual Youth Competition. It isn’t unusual for the Main Stage concert hall to be filled for these concerts, demonstrating the benefit of free admission in making classical music accessible to everyone. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2680, chandlercenter.org.

January 7-20, 2017

FALL NEW INTRODUCTION AND CUSTOM CENTER

Many Styles, Leathers, Fabrics and Configurations to Choose From! BE YOUR DESIGNER!

COMPLETED HOME FURNISHINGS

50% OFF All Mattresses

30% OFF All Accessorie

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on delivery and set up with minimum $1000.00 purchase

*Restrictions apply. Not applicable on current sale or discontinued items. See store for details.

Does not apply w/previous purchase. Not valid with any other offer or coupons. Expires 1-21-17.

Non-Advertised Items 10% to 60% OFF

1980 N. Alma School Road, Chandler, AZ 85224

Some exclusions may apply. See store for details. must present coupon. Expires 1-21-17.

Monday - Friday: 10 am - 8 pm • Saturday: 10 am - 7 pm • Sunday: 11 am - 6 pm

Visit us online: www.MyAmericanFurnitureGalleries.com

January 7-20, 2017

Wet ‘n’ Wild adds Barefootin’ Bay, other amenities Wet ‘n’ Wild Phoenix opens for its 2017 season on March 18 with a major upgrade to the Wet ‘n ‘Wild Jr. area called Barefootin’ Bay. The new interactive water play structure with overhead tipping bucket, water sprayers, tipping cones, a canopy and crawl nets adjacent to a new splash pool, creates the ultimate family oasis in Wet ‘n’ Wild Jr. Additional 2017 enhancements include more seating, restrooms and renovated restrooms, plus a state-of-the-art UV/Ozone water filtration system. “We appreciate the loyalty of the individuals and families that choose Wet ‘n’ Wild Phoenix each season and are delighted to enhance Wet ‘n’ Wild Jr. with additional features for some of our youngest guests,” said Lee Graham, general manager of Wet ‘n’ Wild Phoenix. “Barefootin’ Bay is perfect for young families and will be a welcome addition to the park experience.” Barefootin’ Bay will be added to the northwest side of Wet ‘n’ Wild Jr. and will include a large interactive play structure with slides and a 4,700-square-foot kids’ pool. It will create another option for young toddlers as well as splash area for babies. The tipping bucket and water sprayers mimic the fun of the larger Boogie Board Beach, with added features like the cargo crawl nets and tipping cones to keep little guests cool and part of the fun.

Barefootin’ Bay will feature a new interactive water play structure, as shown here in a Kansas park.

In other improvements, a new family restroom is being created adjacent to Wet ‘n’ Wild Jr. An additional restroom plus restroom renovation will also be complete early spring. The park is also bringing in more chaise lounge chairs for expanded seating options.

Ocotillo Foot & Ankle Centers

Podiatric Surgeons of the East Valley

Wet ‘n’ Wild Phoenix is located at 4243 W. Pinnacle Peak Rd., Glendale. Visit wetnwildphoenix.com or call 623201-2000 to purchase season passes or tickets. Set on more than 35 acres in North Phoenix in the Adobe Dam Regional

Park on Pinnacle Peak Road, near Interstate 17, the Wet ‘n’ Wild Phoenix water park is the largest theme park in Arizona. The $32 million waterpark, is operated as a concessionaire of the Maricopa County Parks and will operate March 18 to Oct. 15.

From routine checkups to treatments for surgery, Ocotillo Foot & Ankle is equipped to handle all your podiatric needs.

E. Ray Road

Dr. Mary M. Peters

Dr. Frank G. Maben, DPM

At Ocotillo Foot & Ankle, our priority is to deliver quality care to informed patients in a comfortable and convenient setting.

www.ocotillofootankle.com

CHANDLER

270 W Chandler Heights Rd Chandler, AZ 85248 (480) 895-0276

AHWATUKEE

13838 S. 46th Pl. #105 Phoenix, AZ 85044 (480) 940-5172 S. Arizona Avenue

S. 46th Place

TWO LOCATIONS!

W. Chandler Heights Rd.

Family owned and operated since 1981

Just received new colors, styles and tons more pots!

LOWEST PRICES, LARGEST SELECTION! LOWEST PRICES,OFLARGEST SELECTION! HUGE SELECTION OVERSIZED POTTERY! HUGE SELECTION OF OVERSIZED POTTERY! PET FRIENDLY! PET FRIENDLY! — C L O S E D T U E S D AY S — — C L O S E D T U E S D AY S —

480-802-1309

Southern Chandler 23843 S. Cooper Rd.

1/4 Mile S. of Chandler Heights Rd.

Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. - 5p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

• Fountains • Benches • Bird Baths • Ceramics • Stoneware • Wrought Iron • Oversized Pottery • Metal Wall Decor • Indoor/Outdoor Decor • Much More!

Classes ages 6 months and up:

• Gymnastics • Tumbling • Trampoline • Acrobatic Gymnastics • Ballet, Hip Hop and Tap NEW! • Martial Arts • Swimming Independent gymnastics classes for 2-year-olds offered!

Aspire offers

PARENTS NIGHT OUT once a month for kids ages 3-13! Check out our website for upcoming dates.

$30 value. New enrollment only. Not valid with any other offer. Please enter promo code SANTANSUN at time of registration. Expires 1-31-17.

480-820-3774

50 S. Hearthstone Way, Chandler 85226 — 1 Block W of Chandler Fashion Center

January 7-20, 2017

HUNTERS • JUMPERS • EQUITATION

Beginner through advanced lessons for all ages.

480-812-8924

www.crossroadsfarm.com

Lindsay Rd.

Home of the ASU Equestrian Team, and the Crossroads East Valley High School IEA Team -you don’t need your own horse to participate! Gilbert Rd.

Ray Rd.

460 E. Ray Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85296

January 7-20, 2017

Join the Women’s Philanthropic Society, Power of the Purse Today! Are you a “hands-on” giver? Passionate and active women gather to volunteer time, talents and treasures in the community with like-minded women, while fundraising for projects that impact health and well-being for women and families in the Southeast Valley. There are many distinctive opportunities to serve and exclusive event experiences. Visit powerofpurse.org to learn more or email connie.johnston@dignityhealth.org or call 480.728.3931

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Lots of Prizes and Giveaways

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January 7-20, 2017

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the Chandler City Council

DISCOVER, IMAGINE, GROW with

CHANDLER RECREATION!

Whether you’re searching for an abundance of outdoor adventures, looking to flex your fitness goals, or hoping to learn a new hobby, Chandler Parks & Recreation has something for everyone to discover, imagine and grow. For a complete listing of upcoming activities or for more information on programs highlighted below pick up Break Time magazine at Chandler facilities,

visit www.chandleraz.gov/breaktime or call 480-782-2727.

13th annual TEEN TALENT COMPETITION

SPICE OF LIFE

FRIDAY, JANUARY 13 | 6–9 p.m.

Senior Variety Show Auditions TUESDAY, JAN. 10 & WEDNESDAY, JAN. 18 2–5 p.m.

CHANDLER SENIOR CENTER Seniors can shine bright at the 25th anniversary “Spice of Life” Senior Variety Show. Active adults who can sing, dance or perform a talent to entertain a crowd are invited to audition. For more information, call 480-782-2720.

SONOR AN RI ES

SU NSET SEIS PARK AT VET ERA NS OAS

CHANDLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Who will be Chandler’s 2017 most talented teen? You’ll have to get a front row seat at our 13th Annual Teen Competition to find out. Join us at the Chandler Center for the Arts as we cheer on talented young adults. Doors open at 6 p.m. Admission is $5. For more information, call 480-782-2746.

Community Nights in the Courtyard

JUMP INTO A HEALTHY NEW YEAR THURSDAY, JANUARY 19 5:30–7:30 p.m.

THURSDAY

JANUARY 19

CHANDLER COMMUNITY CENTER Jumpstart your year with Chandler Community Center and learn how to transform your health. This free, family-friendly event will feature health conscious vendors, fitness and cooking demonstrations, giveaways and more. For more information call 480-782-2746.

6–7 p.m.

It’s time to face the music. Head over to Veteran’s Oasis Park with your blankets, chairs and coolers to enjoy a free concert under the stars. For more information, call 480-782-2889.

FR E

Family Night at the TRC

STAR PARTY

LET IT SNOW

FRIDAY, JANUARY 27 | 7–9 p.m. VETERANS OASIS PARK

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18 | 5:30–7 p.m.

TUMBLEWEED RECREATION CENTER Resident fee: $2 | Non-resident fee: $3

Ready to do some star gazing? Check out the night sky through telescopes, and have questions answered by star experts. For more information, call 480-782-2889.

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow…It’ll be snowing at Tumbleweed Recreation Center for their monthly Family Night event! Kiddos can pull out those rarely-worn hats, gloves and scarves to play in magic snow, learn how snow is formed in nature, and enjoy traditional winter crafts. For more information, call 480-782-2908.

Stay connected with us!

@ChandlerRec

Chandler Recreation

Opinion

www.SanTanSun.com

January 7-20, 2017

Community Commentaries

Chandler Police Cadets a blessing Flu vaccines can help save lives for teens, young adults in more ways than one BY OFFICER JOHN SOMERVILLE

BY BRANDON LAMBRECHT

It is nothing new to hear that 2016 was a are traveling from far away as Minnesota rough year for law enforcement officers. and Illinois. The cadets will host 59 teams As of Dec. 28, 2016, according to the from 56 police agencies traveling for the Officer Down Memorial page, officers chance at more than 125 trophies. All the killed by gunfire was up 59% participants in this event are from 2015. Here in Chandler, peers of the Chandler Police our police department is Cadets, and contribute the extremely fortunate to enjoy same level of support in their such a close and supportive departments and communities. relationship with our This annual event also allows community. We take this to the the future of law enforcement next level by employing one of and public safety to develop the nation’s top youth programs, friendships and contacts that the Chandler Police Cadets. will support their development For 30 years, this program and success for years to come. has provided opportunities The annual competition for teens and young adults does so much more to benefit to serve their community the greater Chandler area than Officer John Somerville alongside their police just helping fund our program. department. Participants are not expected The travelers support Chandler’s economy to pursue a career in law enforcement, with purchases at hotels, fuel stations, though many do. Instead, the program restaurants, entertainment and more. A focuses on developing these youths into our conservative estimate suggests nearly future professionals. $240,000 are spent in Chandler businesses Chandler Police Cadets allows the teens during the three-day weekend. Furthermore, and young adults to serve their community, it is not only Chandler that benefits from develop leadership and supervisory skills, this event each year, but police agencies compete in law-related competitions, from nearby states as well. In 2015, it was participate in team building exercises and the first year agencies realized this event more. Many program participants continue in Chandler brought together the best-oftheir education in college or vocational the-best in the future of law enforcement. programs and enter several professional Sheriff and police departments have now careers. Chandler Police Cadets alumni have started sending recruitment personnel to gone on to become nurses, accountants, the event each year in hopes of finding their teachers, paralegals, pilots, police officers, next great employee. firefighters and the list goes on. Across the board, the Chandler Police Funding for the day-to-day operations and Cadet program is doing great things for our special opportunities for this program are all police department, our community and self-generated. Meaning, the Chandler Police our peers in public safety. It is a privilege to Cadets rely heavily on fundraising. Much of serve, and a blessing to have such incredible our fundraising takes place in mid-January, at support from the Chandler community. the 19th Chandler Tactical Competition. Competitors from across the United Officer John Somerville States travel to participate in the threeChandler Police Department day competition. This year, competitors Police Explorer Director

With frosty temperatures making their way to Arizona, winter has finally arrived. While we continue to celebrate the New Year, one thing we don’t want to start off 2017 with is the flu virus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, influenza viruses have begun to surge in recent weeks with a handful of states experiencing regional activity. The CDC’s Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report shows Arizona has localized activity to date; however, influenza outbreaks are expected to increase in the coming weeks. Additionally, the Walgreens Flu Index, which is compiled using retail prescription data for antiviral medications used to treat influenza across Walgreens locations nationwide, shows that flu activity in the neighboring state of Nevada is high. The flu shot is the best protection you can get against influenza virus. To help avoid the transmission to yourself and others, the CDC recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months gets the shot, especially children under 4, adults over 50 and pregnant women. According to pharmacists, it takes about two weeks after vaccination for protection to set in, so now is the time to get the shot. Before getting vaccinated, it is important to talk with your doctor or pharmacist and choose the right vaccination for you and your loved ones. The following types of flu shots are recommendations for the 2017 season: • Trivalent (3-strain): Protects from the three most common flu strains. Recommended for anyone 6 months and older. • Quadrivalent (4-strain): Protects against three of the most common flu strains plus one additional strain. Recommended for anyone 6 months and older. • High-Dose: Designed to deliver a stronger immune response. Recommended for anyone 65 years and older. • Preservative-free: Does not contain

Walgreens Get a Shot. Give a Shot. campaign has provided more than 15 million life-saving vaccines over the past three years.

any traces of thimerosal/mercury. Recommended for pregnant women and those allergic to mercury. At Walgreens, getting a flu shot could mean saving someone’s life—and not just your own. Walgreens Get a Shot. Give a Shot. campaign has provided more than 15 million life-saving vaccines over the past three years. For every flu shot administered at Walgreens pharmacy, Walgreens donates a polio or measles vaccine to a child in need in a developing country. By working with the UN Foundation’s Shot@Life campaign, Walgreens is increasing the number of people vaccinated against preventable diseases in underserved communities around the world. If you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, there’s no better time to do it. With walkin appointments available at pharmacies throughout metro Phoenix, getting one is easily accessible and convenient—making it simple to just stop in whenever it’s convenient for you. Better yet, flu shots are covered under most insurance plans. I am proud to work for a pharmacy that cares for people in my community and abroad. I have the ability to do my part every day to improve immunization rates here in Arizona and around the globe. Brandon Lambrecht is a Walgreens pharmacist is Chandler.

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Neighbors Chandler celebrates diversity with renowned play page 58

Where you were, where you are and where you’re going page 65

La Stalla goes traditional with its Italian dishes BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

La Stalla Cucina Rustica owner Paolo Vetrati is frequently asked to name his restaurant’s signature dish. He has a quick answer for that. “There isn’t a signature dish,” said Vetrati, who was born in Italy. “If I don’t think it’s good enough, it won’t go on the menu. When people ask me for recommendations, I ask, ‘What are you in the mood for?’” La Stalla Cucina Rustica’s story begins in 1952 in the Italian fishing village of Mola di Bari in Puglia. It was there that Vetrati’s parents—Antonio Vetrati and Maria Innamorato—met and married. Soon thereafter, Antonio moved to the United States and was employed by a New Jersey pizzeria. When he opened his own pizzeria, his family—Maria, 10-yearold Paolo and 8-year-old Arianna—moved to the United States.

La Stalla Cucina Rustica owner Paolo Vetrati moved to the United States when he was 10. STSN photo by Kimberly Carrillo

Easy cold-weather cooking with carrot-lentil stew page 72

“It was tough growing up in the restaurant business,” he said. “There are a lot of sacrifices. There are a lot of late nights. I helped the family a lot. That was basically my childhood.” Thirteen years ago, the family relocated to Chandler and opened La Stalla Cucina Rustica in historic downtown Chandler. “I looked all around the Valley for a location,” Vetrati said. “I liked the urban feel of Chandler. I picked this downtown spot because it was up and coming at the time. It’s changed quite a bit.” It has weathered the “tough times,” Vetrati said. His parents have since retired. “It’s a family-run restaurant,” he said. “Even though my parents have retired, I still run the place. I’m here every day and make sure that things are done right.” Dishes are in perfect proportions. see

LA STALLA page 46

Owner Sasha Cosic and executive chef Brett Tratten dish up avant-garde cuisine at the chic, new VB Lounge in Chandler. STSN photo by Judi King Claybaugh

VB Lounge brings avant-garde cuisine to downtown Chandler BY JUDI KING CLAYBAUGH

VB Lounge, a chic new eatery and craft cocktail bar in historic downtown Chandler, unveiled its classy vibe and novel menu when it opened in December. VB and its sister restaurant, the awardwinning Va Bene in Ahwatukee, are owned by Sasha and Donna Cosic. “We have owned and operated Va Bene for 20 years,” Sasha Cosic said. “Donna will still be managing the Ahwatukee restaurant, while I will be running VB Lounge. We are excited to be opening up a new and exciting concept in downtown Chandler.” He brings decades of experience to VB Lounge, as he has owned numerous Valley restaurants, but there’s nothing traditional

about the new project. Cosic wanted to bring in fresh, young and contemporary talent for the kitchen. He found exactly that in a trio of best friends, all of whom are Le Cordon Bleu-trained chefs from Lon’s at Hermosa Inn. “Executive chef, Brett Tratten, and his team of Anthony Soltys and Marty Heinrick have total control over the menu and the kitchen,” Cosic said. “These three young men are extraordinarily talented and inventive. Their fresh perspective and creativeness has resulted in some amazing food offerings.” Tratten is particularly proud of his see

VB LOUNGE page 45

Guests can enjoy wine, mixed drinks and a full-service kitchen with dishes made fresh to order.

Alamo Drafthouse brings unique cinema experience to Chandler BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Craig Paschich knew when he came to Chandler that it was going to be the future home for his family and a franchise of his Austin, Texas-based company, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. “My wife and I looked at places in Arizona where we wanted to live and we always came back to Chandler,” said Paschich, who is a partner with Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Arizona. “We looked at where other theaters were, where other cinema eateries were. Chandler didn’t have anything like this.” In early December, Alamo Drafthouse

Cinema opened at 4955 S. Arizona Ave., on the northeastern corner of Arizona Avenue and Chandler Heights Road. For showtimes, visit drafthouse.com/ phoenix. In the short month it’s been open, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema has become the neighborhood go-to spot for film, he said. “The community, the city, the neighborhood—everyone’s really taken an affection to it,” Paschich said. “We took see

ALAMO page 46

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VB LOUNGE from page 44 innovative “lollipop” creations. “The fried chicken on the entrée menu is ‘fried chicken you can eat on a first date,’” Tratten said. “I’ve taken a half-pound chicken and de-boned it, then rolled it and tied it back together around a single bone-stick. It’s slow-roasted then flash-fried and tastes just like grandma’s, but without the mess. I also created the pork belly and chicken lollipops as finger food so diners do not need utensils while eating appetizers at the coffee tables.” The appetizers ranging in price from $5 to $40. The VB board, which is recommended for parties of four or more, includes a tartine (a French openfaced sandwich) and a large assortment of starters that the chefs select. Each VB board is different—each is a stunning presentation of fabulous, novel hors d’oeuvres for the adventurous palate ($40). There are nine entrees including the half-pound cast iron Angus cheeseburger with beer-braised onion, New York white cheddar and Applewood bacon on a brioche bun ($14); slow-cooked pork on tortillas with garnish and avocado crema ($17); blackened salmon with black-eyed peas, cornbread and garlicky spinach ($20); and beef osso buco with a vanilla porter glaze, parsnip puree, winter vegetables and fingerling potatoes ($30). Tartines, paninis, soup, side and entrée salads as well as nightly specials and desserts round out the menu. “The three chefs make everything inhouse including the dressings, sauces and even the pickles,” Cosic said. “Nothing is

January 7-20, 2017

purchased premade. The tortillas and fry bread are not made until people order. Our food is handmade, fresh and healthy with a lot of slow cooking.” There is something to be said for the bar, too. “Along with the food, the craft cocktails are also amazing. Our wraparound bar is the largest in the Valley,” he said. “All of the furniture and quartz countertops were flown in from Italy. It is sophisticated and classy, yet affordable.” The VB lounge with its plush coppercolored chairs, blue accents, intimate seating and large bar all help to create a modern, inviting ambience. Cosic said that they plan on having live music and an upstairs private dining room for large parties in the very near future. “We have something for everyone,” he said. The VB board comes with the chef’s selection of novel appetizers, such as chicken lollipops, goat cheese tartine, raw beet salad, shishito peppers, prosciutto and hummus. Submitted photo

VB’s fried chicken with mashed potatoes and carrots tastes like grandma’s, but without the mess. It is rolled and fried on a stick. Submitted photo

VB Lounge 81 W. Boston St. Chandler 85225 480-284-7447 vblounge.com

The housemade frozen chocolate bars filled with chocolate semifreddo and cashew butter and topped with caramel and sea salt, are decadently delicious. Submitted photo

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46 January 7-20, 2017 LA STALLA from page 44 Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina ($17) features small potato dumplings in a sweet tomato and basil sauce topped with fresh diced mozzarella. Lasagne ($17) is another popular dish, with pasta layered with meat ragu and besciamel sauce. Other dishes include Pollo al Limone ($18), chicken breast tenderized and pan seared in a lemon and caper sauce. Meanwhile, Spezzatino di Filetto Alla Birra ($23) is a blend of pan-seared beef tenderloin tips topped with a creamy button mushroom beer sauce. Pizzas, soups and salads are also on the menu. “We’ve maintained a good relationship

throughout the years,” he said. “We were in the top 11 restaurants in Arizona on Thrillist. We make everything in-house, except for a couple desserts. We buy the finest quality products—imported cheeses, imported meats—just to make it right. We stick to traditional and the old-country recipes. I even have a lot of native Italians come here because it’s so close to what they eat.” La Stalla Cucina Rustica 68 W. Buffalo St. Chandler 85225 480-855-9990 lastallacr.com

La Stalla Cucina Rustica’s quaint downtown Chandler location has been rated near the top on Thrillist. STSN photo by Kimberly Carrillo

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ALAMO from page 44 over an existing building. I think people are appreciate of us activating that corner again.” Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, which took two years to come to fruition, has nine screens, an in-lobby bar and full menu of in-theater dining options. Its beer list includes servings of SanTan Brewing Company, Four Peaks and Huss Brewing. Guests can enjoy wine, mixed drinks and full-service kitchen items with dishes made fresh to order. Paschich said that’s an important trait. “Our signature dish is the Royale with Cheese,” he added about the “Pulp Fiction”-inspired meal. “Our pizzas are made from scratch. Our dough is made from scratch. The pizza sauce is made from scratch. The ingredients stack up to anybody. About 80% of our menu is made from scratch. But it’s 100% made to

order. It’s not fast food. It’s a very quality product.” It’s more than the food that makes Alamo Drafthouse Cinema stand out. “I would say a couple of things make us unique,” he said. “Our age policy, for one. If you’re under 18 years of age, you have to be with a parent or guardian. We’re not a teen drop-off place, but we are familyfocused and family-friendly. We want to be adult-focused as well and preserve the movie-watching experience. “We also make sure that people don’t talk and text. We have a very stringent no talk or text policy. We will kick them out without a refund.” Paschich has been with the company for 10 years, and is passionate about the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. “Becoming a franchise partner was the perfect opportunity,” he said. “I am so passionate and I believe in this brand so much. It was an easy move to make.”

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema’s first Arizona restaurant opened in early December.

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January 7-20, 2017

Sew-N-Sews to host fashion show BY ALISON STANTON

Sew-N-Sews club members are preparing to put their sewing and other projects aside for an afternoon to take part in a fashion show that highlights clothing that are available at an upscale Chandler charity thrift store. Mary Louise Lansbarkis, president of the Sew-N-Sews, said she and several others will model casual and dressy fashions that they have purchased from Assistance League East Valley during the fashion show. Lois Katzin, a 93-year-old former model who volunteers for Assistance League East Valley, will moderate the Wednesday, Jan. 11, show. Lansbarkis, a Sun Lakes resident who also volunteers for Assistance League East Valley, said anyone is welcome to attend the fashion show. “The clothes that they sell are nice and very reasonable,” Lansbarkis said. The Assistance League East Valley also supports a variety of philanthropic programs, including Operation School Bell, which provides thousands of young students with uniforms and school clothing. The Sew-N-Sews are 140 women who live in Sun Lakes and the surrounding areas, Lansbarkis said. The group, which meets between September and May, features a variety of activities and classes for its members. “We do anything having to do with needles and thread,” she said. “I’m a sewer and I like the make jackets, but we also have the Dolly Dressers group that fixes dolls and

then gives them away, and we have others who make tiny layettes for preemie babies.” People who enjoy beading, embroidery and knitting will also find camaraderie and more at the Sew-NSews gatherings, she said. “One of the biggest things we do are our Pads for Pals, where we take pillow cases and fill them with 1-inch squares of fabric,” she said. The washable pads are ideal for dogs and cats to lie on, and they have also donated them to homeless veterans who have pets, Lansbarkis said. “When we meet, we get together and show what we have done. I used to play golf, but now I’d rather just spend my money on fabric,” she said. Members of the Sew-N-Sews donate their extra fabric to Assistance League East Valley, Lansbarkis said. Marsha Speicher, a board member with Assistance League East Valley, said they accept donations from the public including women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, handbags, shoes, ties, hats, jewelry and other items. “We have a ‘home depot’ department where you might find tools, gadgets, walkers, and sports equipment,” Speicher said. Speicher said she is looking forward to the fashion show, which she said will be a lot of fun for both the models and the audience. “It is also a great opportunity for others to learn about Assistance League of East Valley and the many philanthropic

Sew-N-Sews Club members Dee Rasmussen, Barbara Dubler and Mary Louise Lansbarkis, from left, model tops they purchased from Assistance League East Valley. The Sew-N-Sews is hosting a fashion show on Jan. 11 in conjunction with Assistance League East Valley.

programs we support. People are so surprised at the wonderful items they can find at our shop. We are all volunteers, we have no paid staff, and all of our profits go right back to the community.” The fashion show will start at 1 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 11, at Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 S. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes. Assistance League East Valley is located at 2326 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler. For more information, visit assistanceleagueeastvalley.org.

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Barrel & Board returns in new location, SoHo63 Hosted by the Scottsdale League for the Arts, Barrel & Board is returning, this time to SoHo63 in Chandler from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23. This fundraising event pairs whisky, beer and cheese dishes. Local craft breweries will pour beer served with the cheesiest of small bites. Be sure to cast your vote for the best cheese pairing. Plus, local acoustic guitarist, Tom Kumagai, will perform. At press time, participating breweries, distilleries and restaurants include 12 West Brewing, Aioli Gourmet Burgers, AZ Distilling, Brat Haus, Dragoon Brewing Co, Grand Canyon Brewing Company, Hamilton Distilling, Helio Basin Brewing Company, Huss Brewing Company, Modern Tortilla, Mother Road Brewing Company, O.H.S.O. Distillery + Brewery, Perch Pub & Brewery, SanTan Brewing

Company and Uncle Bear’s Brewery General Admission tickets to Barrel & Board are $50 in advance online and $60 at the door. Tickets include unlimited cheese samples and other tasty bites, 4-oz beer samples, 1-oz whisky samples and a souvenir tasting mug. SoHo63 is located at 63 E. Boston St., Chandler. For tickets and more information, visit scottsdalefest.org. All net proceeds raised will support the nonprofit Scottsdale League for the Arts in its effort to promote arts and arts education organizations in the Phoenix metropolitan area, via annual fundraisers such as the Scottsdale Culinary Festival and The Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner. Since 2002, the league has contributed more than $4 million to numerous organizations such as Ballet Arizona, Childsplay and Free Arts of Arizona.

All proceeds will support the nonprofit Scottsdale League for the Arts.

Local craft breweries will be showcased at Barrel & Board.

A number of distilleries and restaurants will participate in Barrel & Board, including Aioli Gourmet Burgers, SanTan Brewing Company and Uncle Bear’s Brewery.

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January 7-20, 2017

Step up new year’s resolutions at Ocotillo Village As the Valley embraces a new year, the Village Health Club & Spa locations continue to inspire healthy lifestyle goals. For Village members who are looking to step up their workout routine, this January the Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa is offering members opportunities to put their resolutions into full throttle with personal training programs, spa specials and exciting events. Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa is taking 2017’s “New Year, New You” seriously as it continues to create advanced fitness programs and personal training opportunities. Having a personal trainer can help clients develop fitness goals for the new year. Personal training sessions allow members to focus on their own needs and learn exactly what is necessary to reach their fitness goals. The trainers are schooled in muscle toning, weight management, flexibility, core training, conditioning, pre/postnatal exercise, postrehabilitation, cardiovascular and postphysical therapy fitness to fit all interests and individual needs. Additionally, all Village trainers earned four-year degrees in exercise, science, physiology or kinesiology, along with certifications in personal training that are recognized by the IHRSA (International Health, Racquet & Sports Club Association). Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa is also offering a slew of events this month. Many Ocotillo Village members are preparing for the Rock and Roll Arizona Marathon & Half Marathon set for Jan. 14

and Jan. 15. TEAMVillage Multisport Group had coach Klas Kuntze said the hard work will be done when race weekend arrives. But it’s important to have little to no stress on race day. To aid with that, he recommends using a checklist for those final steps. Kuntze’s checklist includes day-beforerace tips, such as trying to stay of your feet as much as possible, drinking plenty of fluids, eating a familiar prerace dinner and pack your race-day essentials in a bag before going to bed a little earlier. On the day of the race, fuel up with your favorite pre-run breakfast, grab your headphone and get pumped up with your favorite music, and grab your race bag. Kuntze also recommended applying sunscreen, and doing a 10- to 15-minute warm up. Special events at Ocotillo begin on Jan. 12 with Family Night Out from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Members can bring their children to Makutu’s Island, an indoor playground with a pizzeria and arcade, for $12 per child, or nonmembers can participate for $15 per child. The event includes pizza and drinks for the family. Members who want to spent the start of the new year without the kiddos can take advantage of Parents’ Day Out from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14. Parents can drop off their children, who will enjoy lunch, activities and a movie. Members can participate for $20 and $15 per additional child and single or couple members will be $22 and $18 per additional child.

Kicking off the last Friday of the month, Ocotillo Village will be hosting a Junior Night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, for kids ages 10 to 13. It will be hands-on science night, complete with experiments, inventions and new creations. The Junior Night is free for members and $7 for all guests. After ramping up your workout routine, it’s important to rest and relax in the Ocotillo Village Spa. Specials include the Tight and Bright Collagen Building Treatment ($120, regularly $150), which is described as the perfect marriage of skin tightening microneedling and a brightening organic mask by Eminence.

The microneedling allows skin to produce its own firming collagen while the exfoliating mask reduces fine lines, scarring and pigmentation. The spa is also offering a Chrome Shellac Manicure ($50, regularly $60), during which guests can choose from different colored chrome effect, hologram unicorn dust and colorchanging mood gels. For more information about Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa, visit villageclubs.com or call them at 480-656-9404. Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa is located at 4200 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler.

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Chandler Wedding Walk caters to engaged couples Following the coattails of the holiday engagement season, the Chandler Wedding Walk has been scheduled to help couples plan their special day. Set for 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, the Chandler Wedding Walk allows participants to stroll through the historic downtown and meet with merchants who offer services to help them with their wedding planning, from their rehearsal dinner to finding a dress. Plus, guests have a chance to win a raffle prize. Guests check-in at SoHo63 at 63 E. Boston St., a locally owned venue specializing in weddings, where they can

tour the space and if they purchased a $5 raffle ticket, sip on a specialty cocktail. After wrapping up at SoHo63, guests will head west on Boston Street and then head north by San Marcos Place. Along the way, guests will interact with participating businesses that will be set up along the sidewalks and those that have storefronts along the path. The final stop is the historic gem, the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Hotel, where a mock reception will be available and the raffle prizes will be drawn starting at 7 p.m. Unlike many bridal shows and expos, this event is free to attend.

“I’d recommend bringing all the people whose opinion matters and buy a raffle ticket option for each guest, said Deanne Fenton, Chandler Wedding Walk coordinator. “That way, you can pool your tickets at the end of the night for a better chance of winning a particular prize that appeals to you.” More than 24 prizes will be offered, ranging from $1,000 off a venue rental to a Sunday brunch for two. Winners must be present to win. “The Chandler Wedding Walk is the perfect way to have some fun on a Thursday night with your partner or

maid-of-honor, and knock some items off your ever-looming wedding to-do list,” Fenton said. “You can actually tour the venues, see the space for the rehearsal dinner and sample some food options, all in one night. Plus, when you’re done, you can go to one of the great restaurants in the downtown area and talk over your options.” Many vendors will be offering day of specials if couples decide to book while at the event. For more information on the event or registering, visit ChandlerWeddingWalk.com. Registration continues through Jan. 11.

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January 7-20, 2017

The Mile High Pastrami Sandwich at Chompie’s is one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes.

Celebrate Pastrami Sandwich Day at Chompie’s

Jan. 14 is National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day, the annual celebration of this seasoned meat and the sandwich that is a deli staple around the country. Chompie’s has at least 10 variations of the pastrami sandwich and the meat can be added into everything from burgers to omelets. The traditional Hot Pastrami Mile High Sandwich continues to be one of its most popular dishes, though. Chompie’s Mile High Hot Pastrami comes with its famous NY pastrami, baked with its secret blend of spices, then steamed to mouthwatering perfection. It’s served with a choice of potato salad or cole slaw. A NY full sandwich is $15.99, a jumbo half is $10.99. Pastrami was originally created as a way of drying and preserving meat that was seasoned with garlic, coriander, black pepper, paprika, cloves, allspice, and mustard seeds. This delicious Turkish dish made its way to the United States where

New Yorker Sussman Volk is credited with making the first pastrami sandwich in his Kosher deli in the late 1800s. Pastirma is derived from the Turkish word “bastirmak,” which means to press. A New York-style pastrami sandwich is typically served on rye bread with coleslaw and Russian dressing. Fast-food pastrami is usually served on a French roll and topped with yellow mustard and pickle chips. Chompie’s New York-style delicatessen, restaurant, bagel factory, bakery, and caterer has served the Valley since 1979 with all-day breakfast, as well as lunch and dinner seven days a week. It has five locations in Scottsdale, Tempe, Phoenix Valley, Chandler and Glendale. The Chandler restaurant, located in Chandler Village Center at 3481 W. Frye Rd., can be reached at 480-398-3008. For menus, locations and hours, visit chompies.com.

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52 January 7-20, 2017

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Amelia Earhart disappearance topic of Sun Lakes presentation BY GARY VACIN

A Sun Lakes resident who participated in the search for Amelia Earhart’s remains in 2010 will be guest speaker at the Sun Lakes Aero Club gathering Monday, Jan. 16, at the Sun Lakes Country Club Mirror Room. The session starts with coffee and camaraderie at 6:30 p.m., followed by the presentation at 7 p.m. The meeting is open to the public. Karl Kern and two others began the month-long expedition on the remote Pacific island of Nikumaroro. They spent three weeks clearing and excavating land to try to uncover details about Earhart’s disappearance 78 years ago. They found many items that may have belonged to Earhart. Earhart and her navigator, Fred Noonan, disappeared over the Pacific on an around-the-world flight in 1937. There are three theories about what

happened to her: they crashed at sea; they were captured by the Japanese military and died; or they landed on Nikumaroro, an uninhabited coral atoll in what is now known as the Republic of Kiribati. For more than 25 years, The International Group for Historic Aircraft Recovery has been testing the latter theory. The group has made 10 trips to the island to survey. Kern was a member of the 2010 expedition. Kern will reveal what the organization thinks happened to Earhart and Noonan. SLAC meets the third Monday of each month from November through April. For additional information, contact Cannon Hill at 509-530-7857 or Gary Vacin at 480-298-7017. Visit the SLAC website, sunlakesaeroclub.org, for more information.

Amelia Earhart with navigator Fred Noonan.

Award-winning writer hosting workshops Instructor Marilyn June Janson M.S. Ed. is offering the following creative writing workshops. Contact her at janwrite.com for further information. The Fiction and Nonfiction Writing Workshop: Short stories, novels, creative nonfiction, memoirs, family history, young adult, chapter books and children’s books is set for 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesdays Feb. 1 to Feb. 22. The program will be held at the Chandler Community Center

Downtown, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. The charge for residents is $28; nonresidents is $38. A $10 copy fee is paid to the instructor. To register, call 480-782-2727 or visit activenet011.active.com. It will repeat at the Southeast Regional Library, 775 N. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert, from 10 a.m. to noon Saturdays Feb. 1 to Feb. 25. The fee is $60, with a $10 copy fee paid to instructor. To register, call 480-503-6200 or visit

https://apm.activecommunities.com/ GilbertAZ. Family History and Memoir Writing Workshop: Short stories, creative nonfiction, culture and anecdotes will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Mondays Jan. 30 to Feb. 27, with no class on Feb. 20. The charge for residents is $28; nonresidents is $38. A $10 copy fee is paid to the instructor. The class is held at the Chandler Active Adult Center Downtown, 202 E. Boston St.,

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Chandler. To register, call 480-782-2720 or visit activenet011.active.com. A new class, Inspirational Fiction Writing Workshop with Karin Kingsbury, Jan Caron and William P. Young, will be held from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturdays, Feb. 1 to Feb. 25, at the Southeast Regional Library in Gilbert. The fee is $60, with $10 copy fee paid to instructor. To register, call 480-503-6200 or visit https://apm. activecommunities.com/GilbertAZ.

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January 7-20, 2017

SanTan Brewing releases 24-ounce craft-beer cans For the first time, SanTan Brewing Company will offer 24-ounce cans of its popular MoonJuice Galactic IPA and MoonJuice Galactic Grapefruit IPA in year-round, wide release. To accommodate a larger can, SanTan founder, Anthony Canecchia, and plant engineer, Fred Marshall, had to re-engineer their original cask canning line including machining new parts and reprogramming the operating system. “Tinkering with machines is something we love to do at SanTan,” said Canecchia, founder and brewmaster of SanTan Brewing Company. “We are never content with what we are given and are always looking to improve our game. I am extremely proud and excited to be the first Arizona craft brewer to package in a 24 oz. can.” Expanding its offerings to include the 24 oz. can has been a goal at SanTan for years. The larger, single serve package will increase availability of SanTan Brewing craft beer in convenience stores and sports venues. Canecchia selected his two versions of MoonJuice IPA as the first brews to fill the 24 oz. cans primarily due to their huge success and growth within the first year of widespread availability in 12 oz. cans. The price point will remain consistent with the current six-pack pricing per volume, coming in around $2.99-$3.99 per can. MoonJuice Galactic IPA is made with Galaxy and Nelson-Sauvin hops, emitting an aroma of peach, apricot

MoonJuice Galactic IPA, shown above, and MoonJuice Galactic Grapefruit IPA will be offered year-round, wide release in 24 oz. cans.

and tropical fruit. The grapefruit variation, is made with an added splash of Arizona grown grapefruit juice, courtesy of Sun Orchard in Tempe. The new 24 oz. cans will be available

across Arizona at many Circle K, BevMo, Total Wine and Sprouts locations as well as select independent retail outlets. To find a pint or a 24 oz. can of SanTan’s beers, visit SanTan

Brewing Company’s Beer Finder online at SanTanBeerFinder.com. Open since 2007 under the leadership of Canecchia, SanTan Brewing Company has established a strong reputation as one of Arizona’s favorite craft breweries. In addition to brewing, SanTan features a neighborhood brewpub in downtown Chandler, which has quickly become one of the top local food and beer destinations in the Valley. All SanTan Brewing Company craft beers are Southwestern-style ales. SanTan’s brews are fermented to completion and carbonated higher than traditional American beers for a more effervescent, crisp and refreshing hand crafted beer. In 2009, SanTan Brewing began distributing its Southwestern Style Ales throughout Arizona, operating with a mission to pair craft beer with craft food that would inspire great conversation and good times. In 2014, the market was expanded throughout the Southwest and California. SanTan now distributes in Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas. SanTan beers have won numerous national and statewide awards including a silver award at the World Beer Cup in 2016, two medals at the U.S. Open Beer Championship: bronze in 2013 and gold in 2011. SanTan Brewing also took home a silver medal at the 2011 Great American Beer Festival. Check out SanTan Brewing Company online at www.santanbrewing.com.

54 January 7-20, 2017

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Reminders for the upcoming tax season The Internal Revenue Service recently announced that the nation’s tax season will begin Monday, Jan. 23, and reminded taxpayers claiming certain tax credits to expect a longer wait for refunds. The IRS will begin accepting electronic tax returns on Jan. 23, with more than 153 million individual tax returns expected to be filed in 2017. The IRS again expects more than four out of five tax returns will be prepared electronically using tax return preparation software. Many software companies and tax professionals will be accepting tax returns before Jan. 23 and then will submit the returns when IRS systems open. The IRS will begin processing paper tax returns at the same time. There is no advantage to filing tax returns on paper in early January instead of waiting for the IRS to begin accepting e-filed returns. The IRS reminds taxpayers that a new law requires the IRS to hold refunds claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) until Feb. 15. In addition, the IRS wants taxpayers to be aware that it will take several days for these refunds to be released and processed through financial institutions. Factoring in weekends and the President’s Day holiday, the IRS cautions that many affected taxpayers may not have actual access to their refunds until the week of Feb. 27. “For this tax season, it’s more important than ever for taxpayers to plan ahead,” IRS commissioner John Koskinen said. “People should make sure they have their year-end tax statements in hand, and we encourage people to file as they normally would, including those claiming the credits affected by the refund delay. Even with these significant changes, IRS employees and the entire tax community will be working hard to make this a smooth filing season for taxpayers.” The IRS also reminds taxpayers that they should keep copies of their prioryear tax returns for at least three years. Taxpayers who are changing tax software products this filing season will need their adjusted gross income from their 2015 tax return in order to file electronically. The Electronic Filing Pin is no longer an option. Taxpayers can visit irs.gov/ getready for more tips on preparing to file their 2016 tax return. April 18 Filing Deadline The filing deadline to submit 2016 tax returns is Tuesday, April 18, 2017, rather than the traditional April 15 date. In 2017, April 15 falls on a Saturday, and this would usually move the filing deadline to the following Monday – April 17. However, Emancipation Day – a legal holiday in the District of Columbia – will be observed on that Monday, which pushes the nation’s filing deadline to Tuesday, April 18, 2017. Under the tax law, legal holidays in the District of Columbia affect the filing deadline across the nation. “The opening of filing season reflects months and months of work by IRS employees,” Koskinen said. “This year, we had a number of important legislative changes to program into our systems, including the EITC refund date, as well as dealing with resource limitations. Our systems require extensive programming and testing beforehand to ensure we’re ready to accept and process more than 150 million returns.” The IRS also has been working

with the tax industry and state revenue departments as part of the Security Summit initiative to continue strengthening processing systems to protect taxpayers from identity theft and refund fraud. A number of new provisions are being added in 2017 to expand progress made during the past year. Refunds in 2017 Choosing e-file and direct deposit for refunds remains the fastest and safest way to file an accurate income tax return and receive a refund. The IRS still anticipates issuing more than nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21 days, but there are some important factors to keep in mind for taxpayers. Beginning in 2017, a new law requires the IRS to hold refunds on tax returns claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax Credit until mid-February. Under the change required by Congress in the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, the IRS must hold the entire refund – even the portion not associated with the EITC and ACTC – until at least Feb. 15. This change helps ensure that taxpayers get the refund they are owed by giving the IRS more time to help detect and prevent fraud. As in past years, the IRS will begin accepting and processing tax returns once the filing season begins. All taxpayers should file as usual, and tax return preparers should also submit returns as they normally do – including returns claiming EITC and ACTC. The IRS will begin releasing EITC and ACTC refunds starting Feb. 15. However, the IRS cautions taxpayers that these refunds likely won’t arrive in bank accounts or on debit cards until the week of Feb. 27 (assuming there are no processing issues with the tax return and the taxpayer chose direct deposit). This additional period is due to several factors, including banking and financial systems needing time to process deposits.

After refunds leave the IRS, it takes additional time for them to be processed and for financial institutions to accept and deposit the refunds to bank accounts and products. The IRS reminds taxpayers many financial institutions do not process payments on weekends or holidays, which can affect when refunds reach taxpayers. For EITC and ACTC filers, the three-day holiday weekend involving President’s Day may affect their refund timing. Where’s My Refund? ‎on IRS.gov and the IRS2Go phone app will be updated with projected deposit dates for early EITC and ACTC refund filers a few days after Feb. 15. Taxpayers will not see a refund date on Where’s My Refund? ‎or through their software packages until then. The IRS, tax preparers and tax software will not have additional information on refund dates, so Where’s My Refund? remains the best way to check the status of a refund. Help for Taxpayers The IRS reminds taxpayers they have a variety of options to get help filing and preparing their tax return on IRS.gov. Taxpayers can also, if eligible, locate help from a community volunteer. Go to IRS. gov and click on the Filing tab for more information. Seventy percent of the nation’s taxpayers are eligible for IRS Free File. Commercial partners of the IRS offer free brand-name software to about 100 million individuals and families with incomes of $64,000 or less. Online fillable forms provides electronic versions of IRS paper forms to all taxpayers regardless of income that can be prepared and filed by people comfortable with completing their own returns. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) offer free tax help to people who qualify. Go to irs.gov and enter “free tax prep” in the search box to learn more and find a nearby VITA or TCE site, or download the IRS2Go smartphone app to find a free tax

prep provider. The IRS also reminds taxpayers that a trusted tax professional can provide helpful information and advice about the ever-changing tax code. Tips for choosing a return preparer and details about national tax professional groups are available on irs.gov. Renewal Reminder for Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) ITINs are used by people who have tax-filing or payment obligations under U.S. law but are not eligible for a Social Security number. Under a recent change in law, any ITIN not used on a tax return at least once in the past three years will expire on Jan. 1, 2017. In addition, any ITIN with middle digits of either 78 or 79 (9NN-78-NNNN or 9NN-79-NNNN) will also expire on that date. This means that anyone with an expiring ITIN and a need to file a tax return in the upcoming filing season should file a renewal application in the next few weeks to avoid lengthy refund and processing delays. Failure to renew early could result in refund delays and denial of some tax benefits until the ITIN is renewed. An ITIN renewal application filed now will be processed before one submitted at the height of tax season from midJanuary to February. Currently, a complete and accurate renewal application can be processed in as little as seven weeks. But this time frame is expected to expand to as much as 11 weeks during tax season, which runs from mid-January through April. Several common errors are currently slowing down or holding up ITIN renewal applications. The mistakes generally center on missing information, and/or insufficient supporting documentation. ITIN renewal applicants should be sure to use the latest version of Form W-7, revised September 2016. The most current version of the form, along with its instructions, are posted on irs.gov.

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January 7-20, 2017

IRS nationwide tax forums gather important feedback As part of ongoing efforts to receive feedback from the tax community and partner groups, the Internal Revenue Service recently said tax professionals attending the nationwide tax forums this year highlighted a number of areas to help the agency shape Future State efforts to improve taxpayer service. “This year’s tax forums were an excellent opportunity to discuss the IRS Future State with tax professionals and get their perspectives,” said IRS commissioner John Koskinen. “Our Future State work continues to evolve, and this type of feedback is important to help us with this ongoing effort.” IRS Tax Forums were held in five cities in 2016 with more than 10,700 tax professionals attending. The IRS has been developing a “Future State” plan that envisions the taxpayer experience over the next five years and beyond. The initiative is designed to improve the IRS’s ability to fulfill its mission in the years to come. The IRS wants to enhance and expand services for all taxpayers, to provide the services they need whether in-person or on-line. The goal is to make interactions with the IRS more timely and easier for taxpayers and tax professionals. A central component of the plan is the creation of online taxpayer accounts as a new option through which taxpayers will be able to obtain information from and interact with the IRS. The Future State does not contemplate replacing current methods of customer service, such as phone assistance; rather it envisions finding alternative ways for people to receive the specific services they need. Elements of the evolving Future State were displayed at an exhibit at each Tax Forum in 2016. Thousands of forum attendees visited the exhibit. In a survey, the IRS asked tax professionals what changes in the Future State could have the biggest impact on the experience taxpayers have with the IRS. More than 1,300 tax professionals responded to the question. More than 30 percent of

respondents cited enhanced support and tools for taxpayers and overall more than 20 percent cited agile, efficient and effective operations as the areas of greatest impact. Another question asked tax professionals how they saw the Future State affecting their work. Nearly half of more than 600 tax professional respondents noted they saw the Future State expanding their role as a service partner. The IRS will be using these results as well as other feedback to help guide ongoing work as well as prepare for next year’s Tax Forums. Throughout this year, the IRS has also been talking with a variety of groups across the agency’s business divisions to get insight and feedback about various changes taking place at the IRS. In addition, the IRS will continue to solicit input from partner groups about Future State efforts to help ensure the future direction of IRS changes reflects the needs of taxpayers as well as the greater tax community. In nearly four weeks since the launch of the online account, taxpayers have checked their account balance over 76,000 times. And taxpayers have used this new offering to make more than 8,600 tax payments, worth over $27.6 million, through the Direct Pay feature. Taxpayers have also completed more than 2,100 installment agreements through the Online Payment Agreement. In subsequent phases of the online account, the IRS will gradually add features, providing taxpayers with additional tax information and the ability to complete more tasks online. “These expansions of our online services illustrate our Future State work. Part of our effort has been putting the infrastructure and technology in place to help make improved taxpayer service possible,” Koskinen said. “It’s important to keep in mind that the Future State is not a ‘big bang’ initiative where everything is put in place all at once; rather the work on the new online account feature reflects our focus on careful, incremental steps to make sure each process works well. Feedback from the tax community is a critical part of that effort.”

Take advantage of flexible spending for health in 2017 The Internal Revenue Service recently reminded eligible employees that now is the time to begin planning to take full advantage of their employer’s health flexible spending arrangement during 2017. FSAs provide employees a way to use tax-free dollars to pay medical expenses not covered by other health plans. Interested employees wishing to contribute during the new year must elect to do so for 2017, even if they contributed in 2016. Self-employed individuals are not eligible. An employee who chooses to participate can contribute up to $2,600 during the 2017 plan year. Amounts contributed are not subject to federal income tax, Social Security tax or Medicare tax. If the plan allows, the employer may also contribute to an employee’s FSA. Throughout the year, employees can then use funds to pay qualified medical expenses not covered by their health plan, including co-pays, deductibles and a variety of medical products and services ranging from dental and vision care to eyeglasses and hearing aids. Interested employees should check with their employer for details on eligible expenses and claim procedures.

Under the use or lose provision, participating employees often must incur eligible expenses by the end of the plan year, or forfeit any unspent amounts. But under a special rule, employers may, if they choose, offer participating employees more time through either the carryover option or the grace period option. Under the carryover option, an employee can carry over up to $500 of unused funds to the following plan year. For example, an employee with $500 of unspent funds at the end of 2017 would still have those funds available to use in 2018. Under the grace period option, an employee has until 2 1/2 months after the end of the plan year to incur eligible expenses – for example, March 15, 2018, for a plan year ending on Dec. 31, 2017. Employers can offer either option, but not both, or none at all. Employers are not required to offer FSAs. Accordingly, interested employees should check with their employer to see if they offer an FSA. More information about FSAs can be found in Publication 969 at IRS.gov. 2017 Tax Filing Season Begins Jan. 23 for Nation’s Taxpayers, Tax Returns due April 18.

Koskinen also noted that IRS employees remain a critical part of the Future State effort – especially in providing in-person service to taxpayers as well as tax professionals. “While technology and new service options are important parts of Future State, you can’t overlook the continuing need to

have services available to taxpayers over the phone and in person,” Koskinen said. “Our hope is that expanded online options will provide help to taxpayers who prefer that option, while also freeing up valuable resources for people who need help over the phone or in person.”

IRS announces its standard mileage rates for this year The Internal Revenue Service has issued the 2017 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes. • Since Jan. 1, 2017, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) have been: • 53.5 cents per mile for business miles driven, down from 54 cents for 2016 • 17 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes, down from 19 cents for 2016 • 14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations The business mileage rate decreased half a cent per mile and the medical and moving expense rates each dropped 2 cents per mile from 2016. The charitable rate is set by statute and remains unchanged. The standard mileage rate for business is based on an annual study of the fixed and variable costs of operating an automobile. The rate for medical and

moving purposes is based on the variable costs. Taxpayers always have the option of calculating the actual costs of using their vehicle rather than using the standard mileage rates. A taxpayer may not use the business standard mileage rate for a vehicle after using any depreciation method under the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS) or after claiming a Section 179 deduction for that vehicle. In addition, the business standard mileage rate cannot be used for more than four vehicles used simultaneously. These and other requirements are described in Rev. Proc. 2010-51 at irs. gov. Notice 2016-79, posted on IRS.gov, contains the standard mileage rates, the amount a taxpayer must use in calculating reductions to basis for depreciation taken under the business standard mileage rate, and the maximum standard automobile cost that a taxpayer may use in computing the allowance under a fixed and variable rate plan.

Free online tax assistance As tax filing season approaches, the Internal Revenue Service is reminding taxpayers that free assistance for filing is available online, by phone and inperson. The IRS encourages taxpayers to take advantage of the online tools and resources at IRS.gov. • IRS.gov has services that include: • Where’s My Refund? Check on a refund and the estimated delivery date. • Free File Use free tax software to assist with preparation and e-filing. • Get Transcript Obtain various transcript types online or via mail. • Direct Pay Make tax payments directly from a checking or savings account. • Electronic Federal Tax Payment System Make various types of federal tax payments. Online Payment Agreement Eligible taxpayers can set up installment payments.

Answers to tax legal questions The interactive tax assistant takes you through a series of questions and provides you with responses. All IRS Forms and Publications Taxpayers can download and view popular tax publications and 1040 instructions on mobile devices as an e-book at no charge. PDF and HTML versions are also available. Tax products are usually available on IRS.gov six to eight weeks before the paper versions. Where’s My Amended Return? Taxpayers can track the status of an amended return. Taxpayers who can’t find an answer on IRS.gov can call the IRS at 800-829-1040 Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Telephone assistance is also available for individuals with TTY equipment at 800-829-4059.

Volunteers needed for upcoming tax season

Individuals who want to become volunteer tax preparers are need for the City of Chandler’s Earned Income Tax Credit campaign, in partnership with the Internal Revenue Service’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance. The campaign offers free tax return preparation to households with an annual income of $54,000 or less. Tax professionals who are enrolled agents and other tax return preparers can earn continuing education credits when volunteering. No experience is required for volunteers because the City will conduct free IRS process-based tax law training

sessions in January at various locations. Last year, volunteers helped prepare 1,860 tax returns resulting in approximately $2.2 million in federal refunds for residents. The refunds may not have been received without the assistance of 57 dedicated volunteers who invested more than 4,000 hours helping families. To volunteer for the upcoming tax season, visit chandleraz.gov/vita and complete the survey link. After completion of the survey, City staff will contact interested volunteers on the next steps.

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56 January 7-20, 2017

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Red Cross urges donors of all blood types to donate in the coming weeks As cold temperatures grip the Valley, the American Red Cross urges eligible donors to make an appointment to give blood to help meet the constant need for blood this winter. Millions of people are expected to take to the roads, rail and air to celebrate

the season, which can cause fewer donors to be available and lead to a decline in blood donations. In addition, severe winter weather and seasonal illnesses can temporarily prevent some from giving. Donors with all blood types are needed now to help patients. As a special

How to donate blood Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood. org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800- 7332767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood

donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds, and who are in generally good

thank you for taking the time to donate, those who come out to give through Jan. 8 will receive a long-sleeved Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. “Many of us celebrate this time of year with loved ones, but patients may spend the holidays and ring in the new

year from a hospital room,” said Jan Hale, interim communications manager of the Red Cross Arizona Blood Services Region. “Blood donors can bring joy to patients and their families by giving blood to help ensure patients receive the lifesaving treatments they need.”

health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements. Blood donors can now save time at their next donation by using RapidPass to

complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, prior to arriving at the blood drive. To get started and learn more, visit redcrossblood.org/RapidPass and follow the instructions.

Fun, informative programs planned Democratic Club meeting Jan. 9 at the Ed Robson Library this month at Sun Lakes Country Club Winter has arrived and the Ed Robson Library in Sun Lakes is offering a trio of programs over the next few weeks. Those new to Arizona or part-time residents of the Grand Canyon State can meet Van Newville, a second-generation Arizonan who has widely traveled the state, at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10. He will share pronunciations, dress, stories and fascinating state history. The “Awesome Opportunities” series continues with a ballerina from Ballet Arizona. She will chat about her training and career, and demonstrate basic ballet steps for the audience to try at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14. The program is geared for children ages 5-12, but all are welcome with caregiver. PHXART Presents: Visions of the Southwest

comes to the library at 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19. Join the group for a fresh look at locations throughout the Southwest through the eyes of two iconic artists, Georgia O’Keeffe and Ansel Adams. Along the way, learn a bit about their lives and their relationship. On the day of each of the programs, free tickets (limit two) can be picked up at the customer service desk from the time the library opens until capacity is reached. Park in the church parking lot next to the library. The Ed Robson Library is located at 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. For more information, call 602-652-3000 or visit mcldaz.org. The public is asked to park in the church parking lot next to the library.

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

Jon Ryder, executive director of the Maricopa County Democratic Party for the past four years, will give a presentation on the 2016 election results in relation to Legislative District 17 and Maricopa County. He will present at the next Democratic Club meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9, in the Navajo Room at Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 E. Sun Lakes Blvd. At all club meetings, nonperishable food items are collected for the Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank. Collections take place on meeting nights in the west parking lot from 6:30 p.m. to 7

p.m. There is also a collection box at the north entrance of the Sun Lakes Sunset Grill lobby. In November, 265 pounds of food and $35 were contributed. That brings the totals for 2016 to 3,034 pounds of food and $369. The totals for the previous year were 2,310.5 pounds of food and $686. All are welcome at Sun Lakes Democratic Club meetings which are the second Monday of each month. Refreshments are served. For more information, call Tom Amrhein at 480-895-1162.

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

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

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

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

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 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 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 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

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Neighbors

January 7-20, 2017

Makutu’s Island Makutu’s Island in Chandler celebrated the holiday with a midday Noon Year’s Eve Celebration, complete with a dance party, pizza and games. Makutu’s Island is one of America’s largest indoor play places and is designed with a tropical theme. The attraction’s centerpiece is an indoor tree filled with tunnels, tubes, mole holes and slides. Makutu’s Island is located at 6919 W. Ray Rd. For information about future events, visit makutusisland.com or call 480-344-3740.

There were magical creatures colored throughout the island.

Makutu & Oscar get the kids pumped up for the dance party!

Zoey Johnson takes a rest between playing in the jungle gym.

Addison Larsen celebrates her third birthday.

Keyana Allison gets excited to bounce.

Luca Pelosi has a blast bouncing on his sixth birthday.

Kiki, the koala bear, comes out before the balloon drop to join the dance party.

Kelsee Bowman looks at the live fish the island has in their fish tanks.

Blake Little has a blast checking out the different parts of the “island”.

Makutu & Oscar the Crocodile dance with the kids.

January 7-20, 2017

Arts

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Chandler celebrates diversity with renowned play BY TIM J. RANDALL

Respected for its strong commitment to diversity, inclusion and acceptance, Chandler will again highlight these exemplary traits during its annual Celebration of Unity. The yearly tradition honors the values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his commitment to equality and universal respect. This year’s iteration showcases a deep-rooted partnership with The Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival and East Valley Jewish Community Center, with the play “Life in a Jar: The Irena Sendler Project.” It will be presented at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, at the Chandler Center for the Arts. Tickets are $10 general admission; $5 students up to age 25. For information, visit evjcc.org. The story pays tribute to Sendler, a Polish Christian woman who smuggled 2,500 children out of the Warsaw Ghetto during World War II. “The historical transcendence message is, as the Talmud says, when you save one life you save a universe,” said Rabbi Michael Beyo, CEO of the East Valley Jewish Community Center. “In this case Irena Sendler—a Catholic social worker—saved over 2,500 universes. Each one of us is a universe, but we can only exist with the kindness and compassions of others.” The 80-minute production shares the horrors of the Holocaust, and one brave woman who stood up to the atrocities by demonstrating extraordinary valor in the face of overwhelming odds. “I am the grandson of Holocaust survivors and have been directly affected by anti-Semitism against myself, my family and friends,” Beyo said. “This act of courage done by a

Catholic Polish woman shows that lights prevail over darkness, just like the lights of Hanukkah prevail over the darkness of anti-Semitism and racism.” The play was developed in 1989 by four Midwest high school students as a response to their teacher Norm Conard’s charge to develop a National History Day assignment, which would answer his classroom motto, “He who changes one person, changes the world entire. Patrons can participate in a Q&A after the production with cast members; Megan Feist, one of the four students who created the play; and Conard, who now serves as executive director of the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas. City officials seized the opportunity to share this compelling story with Valley residents after they were approached by Adrian Bendick, senior programming coordinator for the EVJCC and chairwoman of the Films in Schools program at the GPJFF. The film version of “Life in a Jar” is used for student outreach. “I wanted to bring the play to Chandler for several years,” Bendick said. “I have presented the film of the play to high schools as far north as Cottonwood and all areas between there and Chandler.” According to a Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival release, more than 3,900 secular and religious school students have seen the film in nine years. A presentation on Friday, Jan. 13, is closed to the public, as Chandler-area high school students will attend a free presentation of the program. Beyo said Chandler officials were

A staged performance of “Life in a Jar: The Irena Sendler Project” will be held at the Chandler Center for the Arts.

paramount in bringing this program together. “The City of Chandler is a very important partner with the EVJCC— not only for this project. We are thankful for the partnership and for the educational programs and events that we do and will continue to do in partnership,” Beyo said. “Together we are able to bring meaningful and important messages to our community.” As for the City, occasions such as “Life in a Jar: The Irena Sendler Project” are fundamental cornerstones of its commitment to shared mores. “Chandler is very proud of its diversity and we look for opportunities to celebrate our differences along with

the attributes that we share with one another,” said Leah Powell, community resources & diversity manager, City of Chandler. “It is through education and celebration that we promote unity in Chandler. ‘Life in a Jar’ is a great example of an event that educates our youth and the public in general on the lessons to be learned from the Holocaust.” As a New Year unfolds, patrons can be touched by the story that stresses tolerance, hope, harmony and solidarity. “The message is unity in our community and how one person can change so many lives,” Beyo said. “Do not stand idle when wrongs are happening.”

Filmmakers worldwide showcased at Chandler film fest An eclectic mix of filmmakers, industry professionals, students and movie buffs will network and celebrate the magic of cinema at the Chandler International Film Festival from Friday, Jan. 13, to Sunday, Jan. 15, at SoHo63. “We are honored and thrilled to welcome the Chandler International Film Festival to downtown Chandler and SoHo63,” said City Councilman René Lopez. “We have a diverse, multicultural community that values and supports the arts in many ways. The opportunity to see so many unique and creative international films will spark a tremendous amount of interest and excitement. It’s going to be a great weekend in Chandler.” A unique and pioneering film festival, CIFF will feature screenings of more than 100 movies selected from thousands

of submissions by talented filmmakers worldwide. The festival’s focus is to showcase creative independent film direction through diversity, innovation and uniqueness while capturing the series of movements and experiences of a single movie. “We are doing this to encourage emerging movie makers to continue creating by appreciating their work, giving them the recognition they deserve and helping them create more opportunities through networking, publicity and distribution,” said CIFF creator and director Mitesh Patel, a film producer. Throughout the year, films were submitted, screened and selected for awards such as Best Picture of the Month, which gets a screening at the annual event to compete for Best of the Best Picture. For each month, the official

selection and winner are announced on the CIFF website, chandlerfilmfestival. com. In addition, all monthly “Best Picture” winners get a trophy and distribution offer. There will also be a viewers’ choice award that attendees will vote for over the weekend. “We create an opportunity for filmmakers to get their films judged and let them compete with other filmmakers,” Patel said. “We perform a comprehensive evaluation process and select only highquality films. Only the best ones make it into the festival.” Filmmakers will have access to festival screenings, red carpet interviews and all the networking opportunities that come along with a festival of this size and magnitude. The festival will begin Friday evening with a “Chandlerwood” premiere gala. Guests will walk the red carpet, take

Robert Rice photos to be featured at Vision Gallery Longtime Arizona resident Robert Rice will showcase his photographs in an exhibit called “Opus 99” from Friday, Jan. 20, to Saturday, March 11, at the Vision Gallery, 10 E. Chicago St., Chandler. His opening reception will be from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20. An Arizona resident since 1974, Rice has photographed for more than 35 years. Largely focusing on nature,

landscapes and, more recently flowers, Rice’s work has often concentrated on the borderline between the abstract and reality. Photographing since moving to Arizona, Rice has worked in a variety of formats from traditional camera to digital. Rice has created a wide range of series of bodies of work, including botanicals, transportation and machinery, architecture, and still life.

Rice’s works are available for the public to peruse at his website robertricefinephoto.com, and he has shown his work with the Chandler Public Library, Boyce Thompson Arboretum and Northern Trust Bank. His works are in numerous private and corporate collections. In 2001, he won the “Photograph of the Year” award from AFECA Tour Consultants.

pictures and enjoy a cocktail hour followed by the opening ceremony with remarks from Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. Jim Grieshaber of iHeart Radio and JAMM7 will serve as emcee. The festival will include a dinner and a movie screening Saturday night, industry workshops and afterparties. It will culminate with the awards ceremony on Sunday evening that will include a viewers’ choice award. “This is a very important event for us as a city with a deep commitment to the arts,” added Terri Kimble, president and CEO of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce. “We are proud and excited to welcome it with open arms.” The event is open to the public. Food and beverages will be available throughout the weekend. Ticket prices start at $25, and are on sale at chandlerfilmfestival.com.

Arts

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Prescott artist hosts opening reception for ‘Landscapes’ “Presence, Place and Perception: Landscapes by Bonny Stauffer” will be presented at the gallery at the Chandler Center for the Arts from Friday, Jan. 13, to Saturday, March 11. The exhibit will feature an opening reception where the artist will discuss her work from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13. The event is free admission and open to the public. The Chandler Center for the Arts Gallery is located at 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Stauffer is a full-time studio artist who has lived in Prescott for 40 years and has been an active artist and educator since. Holding a fine arts degree in painting from ASU, Stauffer has also had extensive training in graphic design. She has furthermore been very involved in her 22-year career with Yavapai College as a professor of art, graphic designer, and dean of the Visual and Performing Arts Division. Stauffer’s artworks have been exhibited at various galleries, art centers and universities throughout the United

States and have been added to numerous private collections. Stauffer’s artwork consists primarily of large-scale paintings, watercolors, digital images and constructed paintings that are based on the ever-changing process of life in the universe. Stauffer represents her long hours of drawing and meditating in nature in her work. “The work in this exhibition began on meandering hikes with a sketchbook and pen, a keen eye and an open heart seeking places in nature that speak to me in a personal way,” she said. “The ‘Pilgrimage’ paintings are based on drawings done on summer hikes in West Fork Canyon in north central Arizona. The canyon has a year-round creek, lush vegetation and high red cliffs that bring me back to places I loved as a child, pockets of water and vegetation– places of imagination and play. The main emphasis in these works is the sense of moving through layers, both in the landscape and in my life.”

Sing along and tap your toes to Dean Ratzman at QC Library Singer and multi-instrumentalist Dean Ratzman is performing 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at the Queen Creek Branch Library, 21802 S. Ellsworth Rd., Queen Creek. He plays hit songs from the

1940s through the 1970s, including swing, Sinatra, Motown, popular hits and jazz, on the trumpet, trombone and piano. Info: mcldaz.org/queencreek and 602-6523000.

January 7-20, 2017

Desert Dance Theatre honors Harriet Tubman in MLK festivities In celebration of MLK, Desert Dance Theatre presents “The 25th Anniversary of Sister Moses: The Story of Harriet Tubman” at 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, at the Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. The show opens with Desert Dance Theatre repertory, including “Marco’s Swing,” choreographed by Lisa R. Chow with original music by Step Raptis; two dances as a tribute to Billie Holiday’s “Strange Fruit” performed by Renee Davis and “Spreadin’ Rhythm Around” performed by the company; and a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “We’re On The Move” (excerpt from Desert Dance Theatre’s “Free at Last”). Dennis Rowland and Charles Lewis will provide vocals. A Detroit native and Phoenix resident, Rowland was the voice of the world-renowned Count Basie Orchestra between 1977 and 1984, where he shared the stage with Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Joe Williams and Tony Bennett. He is also featured on the Basie Band’s Grammy awardwinning record “On the Road.” Energetic, creative and unforgettable are words that describe Phoenix piano legend Lewis. Named the first jazz-category inductee to the Arizona Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame, Lewis began performing on the piano at church functions when he was just 7 years old. In 1953, he moved from Philadelphia to Arizona to attend ASU, and he started performing in 1954 at the 7th Avenue Elks Club jams. He played with several bands before forming the Charles Lewis Quintet. After intermission, Desert Dance Theatre presents its featured performance of “Sister Moses: The Story of Harriet Tubman” for

the show’s 25th season. This production is a beautiful story of a courageous woman’s determination to free her people from slavery through the Underground Railroad. She was one of America’s first liberated women of color, who fought against all odds for the sake of freedom and equality. The show’s goal is to bring light to the accomplishments of the anti-slavery activist, Tubman. This powerful music/dance/drama features Desert Dance Theatre with Renee Davis as Tubman, dramatic narration/ voice of Tubman by Renee Morgan Brooks, African drumming and music direction by Raptis, accompaniment by the Sister Moses String Quartet and traditional spirituals sung by the Sister Moses Choral Ensemble, featuring baritone soloist, Greg Dansby. The unique blend of this 45-minute multidisciplinary presentation highlights the most important episodes of Tubman’s life, and shares the knowledge and experience of her struggles and accomplishments that will bring a source of inspiration to our audience. The program follows Tubman’s life as a young slave on a Southern Plantation, her attempts to escape slavery, her work on the Underground Railroad, and her contributions to the Abolitionist movement. Slave songs from that period are featured for their significance as a means of passing information among the slaves. Hidden in the lyrics were vital escape details. For more information, contact Desert Dance Theatre at 480-962-4584 or go to DesertDanceTheatre.org.

Arts

January 7-20, 2017

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There is free admission and parking for the Gold Canyon Arts Festival, a gift to the community from the nonprofit Gold Canyon Arts Council and sponsors.

Gold Canyon Arts Festival celebrating its 17th year As You Wish Pottery schedules classes for all during January As You Wish Pottery offers a slew of activities for youth to adults throughout January. From 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, Homeschool Social will be held for homeschooled children. It is a $15 all-inclusive program with step-bystep basic pottery painting techniques taught to create a self-portrait with a party hat that can be used to write

personal goals on with a wipe-off marker. From 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20, Beginning Technique/Spolvero class will be held for ages Learn how to create a Valentine’s Day-inspired platter. To register for these classes, visit www.asyouwishpottery.com/classes. The Chandler studio is located at 2970 Germann Rd., Suite 4.

Nestled in the beautiful Superstition Mountains, the 17th annual Gold Canyon Arts Festival will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28, on the grounds of the Gold Canyon United Methodist Church at 6640 S. Kings Ranch Rd. An average of 5,000 people per year have attended and exhibitors call it the best one day festival in the region. The juried art show will feature the work of 85 artists in a wide variety of genres and styles from the East Valley and throughout the state. Programs will be available listing the artists and their specialties. The commemorative poster, “Dreams In Flight” by artist Nadine Booth, will also be for sale. There will be live entertainment

including Southwest music and dancers and a food court with a variety of foods and beverages. The Gold Canyon Food Bank will collect donations. There is free admission and parking for the festival, a gift to the community from the nonprofit Gold Canyon Arts Council and sponsors. The Gold Canyon Arts Council, a nonprofit organization, strives to bring affordable arts to the East Valley through its Canyon Sounds performing artist series. All proceeds from six annual concerts, memberships and grants are returned to school music programs through artist tutorials and workshops. For more information, visit gcartsfest.com.

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Arts

January 7-20, 2017

Architecture, landscapes and botanicals are framed up in Vision Gallery exhibit Ultimate classics return to the big screen at Harkins in Chandler Harkins Theatres continues its Tuesday Night Classics series with presentations of films at 7 p.m. for $5. Chandler Fashion 20 is among the theaters that will show the films, which include “West Side Story” on Jan. 10; “Sixteen Candles” on Jan. 17; “The Crow” on Jan. 24 and “Enter the Dragon” on Jan. 31. For more information on Harkins’ Tuesday Night Classics, visit harkinstheatres.com/TNC. Celebrating over 83 years, Harkins

Theatres is the largest family-owned theater chain in the country. Founded by showman, inventor and community leader Dwight “Red” Harkins in 1933, Harkins Theatres operates more than 500 screens. Harkins Theatres’ amenities include Ciné Capri, CINÉ1, CINE 1XL, state-of-the-art digital projection and sound, curved wallto-wall screens, leather reclining seats, plush loveseats, Loyalty Cups, in-lobby children’s PlayCenters and an expanded selection of gourmet concessions.

The Vision Gallery in downtown Chandler is presenting Opus 99: The Photography of Robert Rice from Jan. 20 to March 11. An opening reception is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20. From arched colonnades to spiraling flower petals, the Chandler resident brings a unique perspective of botanicals, landscapes and architecture through the lens of his camera. His wide-reaching body of work has been described as existing along the border between abstract and reality. “The Opus 99 project is a collection of 99 images taken over the past 40 years, which are presented as 33 triptychs,” Rice said. “Each triptych is meant to express an idea of form or thought. The inspiration for the Opus 99 project came while looking at the 70,000-plus images I have taken

over this time and realizing the consistent patterns and vision in my work. The exhibit tries to go beyond the single image to a set of images that could convey a richer idea, similar to using individual words to form short sentences. “While each set may have a certain meaning for me, I hope viewers can look at them and find their own meaning and stories.” Rice’s work has been on display at Chandler Public Library, Boyce Thompson Arboretum and Northern Trust Bank. He also has work in numerous private and corporate collections. Vision Gallery is located at 10 E. Chicago St., Chandler. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Exhibit are free. Visit visiongallery. org for more on the gallery and this exhibit.

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Arts

January 7-20, 2017

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Arts

January 7-20, 2017

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ON STAGE Doc Holliday by Wyatt Earp, Saturday, Jan. 7, HCPA. Written by Terry Earp, in collaboration with Doc Holliday’s closest living relative, Karen Holliday-Tanner, this play chronicles the West’s most famous dentist and his journey from being one who heals to one who “keals” (kills). 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. Alley Cats: Doo-Wop Drive In, Saturday, Jan. 14, HCPA. The Alley Cats serve a blend of 1950s and 1960s hits and hilarity. December ’63, Sunday, Jan. 15, WHP. The music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons comes to life with this local tribute act. 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 50-year 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.

Chubby Checker, Friday, Feb. 3, WHP. Chubby Checker was described by Dick Clark as one of “the three most important things that ever happened in the music industry.” 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 high-profile collaborators and more recently inspired an expanding repertoire of original works by some of today’s foremost composers. Jack Wright: The Songs and Stories of Neil Diamond, Saturday, Feb. 4, HCPA. Jack Wright shares stories about Neil Diamond’s life, as well as explanations of his sometimes complex and complicated lyrics. The Heartlight Show Band is made up of touring professionals from the San Francisco Bay Area who played with Grammy Award-winning artists such as Bonnie Raitt, Natalie Cole, Buddy Miles, Van Morrison, Susan Tedeschi and John Lee Hooker. The Piano Men: Generations—The Music of Billy Joel & Elton John, Sunday, Feb. 19, WHP. Join the father-and-son team of Terry and Nick Davies for this celebration of the two stellar artists’ talents. Marty Haggard: A Tribute to Merle Haggard, My Dad, Thursday, Feb. 23, WHP. Marty Haggard’s love for his dad and his father’s “real country” music inspired him to begin “A Tribute to Merle Haggard, My Dad.” 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 and Roll Hall of Fame honoree and Golden Globe-nominated singer and actor with a live set that encompasses his

Sinbad, Friday, April 28, Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino 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. Yanni, Saturday, April 8, MAC. For the first time, platinum-selling Yanni is stepping off the concert stage to give fans the chance to interact with him on a more intimate and personal level. Each show is unscripted and will unfold differently each night depending on the questions being asked. Sinbad, Friday, April 28, WHP. Michiganborn Sinbad caught his big break as a contestant on “Star Search” in the early 1980s. Since then, he has appeared on television and in films. He was a competitor on “Celebrity Apprentice” in 2010.

Glenn Miller Orchestra, Sunday, Feb. 26, Chandler Center for the Arts.

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 W. Page Ave., Gilbert Tickets: 480-497-1181, haletheatrearisona.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 WHP—Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler Tickets: 800-946-4452, www.wingilariver.com/ wild-horse-pass

Spirituality

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January 7-20, 2017

Spiritual Reflections Miracle in the rain BY RABBI IRWIN WIENER, D.D.

The saying goes that “art imitates life” and is true in most instances. One thing is for sure, movies like the 1950s flick “Miracle In The Rain” with Van Johnson and Jane Wyman can make you feel glad and sad at the same time. It is like life. We have moments of ecstasy as well as disappointments. Love, however, is the one emotion that can carry us through dark days and helps us rejoice when there is light. It works in mysterious ways. When we love someone, and are loved in return we enter into the realm of divine fulfillment. But then the worst happens and we lose someone we love and that hurt is too much to bear. We try to reach for some magical occurrence that will bring back our love so that the hurt will go away and our feelings of happiness return. The days and nights are empty now. The touching and reaching are beyond our grasp. The marvel of a smile or a gleam in an eye seems so distant as if they never really were there at all. It is such a lonely sensation. Tears, like falling rain, fill our eyes and roll down our cheeks. Sometimes we cry uncontrollably and our body trembles. It is so awful. We are so desolate. I am reminded of the following story. Once there was a student who was

with a teacher for many years. And when the teacher felt he was going to die, he wanted to make even his death a lesson. That night, the teacher took a torch, called his student, and set off with him through the forest. Eventually the teacher extinguished the torch, without explanation. “What is the matter?” asked the student. “This torch has gone out,” the teacher answered and walked on. “But,” shouted the student, his voice plucking his fear, “will you leave me here in the dark?” “No! I will not leave you in the dark,” returned the teacher’s voice from the surrounding blackness. “I will leave you searching for the light.” Such is the path we should take when we lose a loved one. During their lifetime, they gave us light. They lit our path so that we could experience fulfillment. And when that light is gone, it really isn’t because the flame that burned our passion is now embedded in our heart for all time. This is called memory. Memory will not replace the intensity of the joy but it will enable us to embrace the very depth of understanding the love that was shared created memory. Memory is the next step in the thrilling journey of life.

Rabbi Irwin Wiener

Sorrow is the rain, and the drops remind us of the tears we shed and the miracle is that our affliction will be washed away together with the sadness. This is the legacy we inherited and now leave others. To have loved and be loved is a miracle whether in the rain or in the

clear skies that dry up our tears. This is the true miracle. Rabbi Wiener is spiritual leader of the Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation. He is the author of two books “Living with Faith” and “Why is This Night Different,” a contemporary understanding of the Exodus experience.

Where you were, where you are and where you’re going BY DR. MARC DRAKE, SENIOR PASTOR, FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, SUN LAKES

If some of your goals for 2017 have fallen by the wayside, this may be a good time to reflect on the words of the apostle Paul in the Bible: “One thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on…” (Philippians 3:13-14). I never cease to be encouraged and challenged by those words! Speaking of being encouraged and challenged, consider this: In the 17th century, when John Bunyan was thrown in jail for his preaching, he didn’t sit there bemoaning his fate. He wrote a book (in fact, nine of them during his 12-year imprisonment!). The most well-known of Bunyan’s books is “The Pilgrim’s Progress,” most of which he wrote during another imprisonment. This epic work is probably the most famous allegory in the English language and, next to the Bible, the most read book in history. It is the story of a man who

had a great load of sin on his back and was journeying from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City. The Bible says of the believer: “And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him” (Colossians 1:21-22). The exciting reality for Christians is that Jesus Christ has brought us out of the City of Destruction and is leading us toward the Celestial City. As John Newton, the composer of “Amazing Grace” put it: “I am not the man I ought to be, I am not the man I wish to be, and I am not the man I hope to be, but by the grace of God, I am not the man I used to be.” Furthermore, the Senior Pastor Dr. Marc Drake, First Baptist Church Sun Lakes

Scripture says that believers have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ (See Ephesians 1:3). What a truth to ponder! God does not want believers to live like spiritual paupers; therefore, we must never forget where we were, where we are, and where we are going. The City of Destruction is behind us, the Celestial City is before us, and in the meantime, we have the presence and power of the Holy Spirit to guide and use us for the glory of God! Understanding and regularly calling to mind these truths will give us a radically different perspective when we encounter trials in this life (as we surely will). Samuel Rutherford said, “Our little time of suffering is not worthy of our first night’s welcome home to heaven.” If you’ve never read “The Pilgrim’s Progress” I encourage you to give it a go. I think you’ll be glad you did. Bunyan turned his adversity and unjust imprisonment into an opportunity to write for the glory of God. And we are the beneficiaries!

WEDNESDAY: Bible Study 12 Noon & 7 p.m. SUNDAY: WORSHIP 10 a.m. 19609 S. McQueen Rd. • Chandler, AZ 480-899-LIFE (5433) • 480-343-0022 www.gospel4life.org

Spirituality

January 7-20, 2017

Spiritual Connections Call ahead to confirm as details occasionally change after print. If you have a recurring monthly support group or meeting to list 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,

Weekend Masses Sat Sun

4:30 pm English 6:45 am English 8:00 am Español ** 9:00 am English-St. Juan Diego 9:30 am English 11:00 am English 230 West Galveston Street, Chandler, AZ 85225 12:30 pm Español (Between Arizona Ave. & Alma School Rd.) 5:00 pm Teen/Young Adult Daily Masses: Mon-Fri 6:30am • Mon-Sat 8:15am 6:30 pm Español Tues (English) & Wed (Español) 6:30pm ** St. Juan Diego Church at Navarrete School Confession: Sat 3-4pm (or by appointment) Tues & Wed 5:30pm 6490 South Sun Groves Blvd. (Riggs Road & Lindsay)

Open hearts. Open minds. Open doors.

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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

Interfaith CommUNITY Spiritual Center, 952 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 102, Mesa. Info: (480) 593-8798 or www.interfaith-community.org.

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

“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

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

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

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

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

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. 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.

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.

Chandler United Methodist Church

FirstFirst Baptist Church, Chandler Baptist Chandler

SUNDAY WORSHIP

480-963-3439 www.fbc.net www.fbc.net 480-963-3439

Making and Deploying Disciples for over 100 Years.

Chapel Service 7:30 a.m. Traditional Worship 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

SUNDAY SCHOOL For Children 9:10 a.m. & 10:40 a.m.

ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL 9 a.m.

480-963-3360

www.chandlermethodist.org | 450 E. Chandler Heights Rd.

January theme: Courage

Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation (VUU) is a vibrant intergenerational liberal religious community located in Chandler. We are an active and growing congregation, full of passionate and committed members and friends, grounded in the history and heritage of the UU tradition. VUU provides a welcoming diverse community

that nurtures each person’s life-long spiritual journey, creates a place of peace and celebration, and strives for social justice and sustainable living. We seek to create lives of integrity, service, and joy.

For info, call (480) 899-4249 or visit www.VUU.org.

Sunday Schedule Sunday Worship - 9:00Schedule a.m. / 10:30 a.m. Worship 9:00 a.m. / 10:30 a.m.a.m. Sunday School - 9:00 a.m. / 10:30 SundaySpanish School -Worship 9:00 a.m. / 10:30 - 12 Noon a.m. Spanish Worship - 12 Noon Wednesday Activities at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Students Refuge, Activities Choir Rehearsal, Activities will resume August Bible Studies (Meal atin5:30 p.m.) COME JOIN US! facebook.com/FirstBaptistChandler facebook.com/FirstBaptistChandler

3405S. S.Arizona ArizonaAve. Ave. 3405 3405 S. Arizona Ave. SAN SANTAN TANFREEWAY FREEWAY(202) (202) QUEEN QUEENCREEK CREEKRD. RD. OCOTILLO OCOTILLORD. RD.

ARIZONA ARIZONA

APPLEBY APPLEBY

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Spirituality

Sun Lakes Jewish congregation schedules events The Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation is an established reform congregation that meets at the Sun Lakes Chapel on the second Friday of each month from September through June. In July and August, a twilight service is held in the Sun Lakes Chapel at 5:30 p.m. Services are a great opportunity to meet new people, connect with Judaism and learn. Oneg Shabbats are held immediately after services at Sun Lakes Country Club from September through June. Everyone is invited to attend. The services and Oneg’s offer attendees an opportunity to meet members, ask questions and learn more about the congregation. On Jan. 13, a new member gathering

will be held in the Chapel Center prior to Friday night services. A light dinner will be served. Invitations have been sent to all new members. If you have not received an invitation or have questions concerning this event, contact Jeff Spear at 480-556-1284 or email jeff.spear46@ gmail.com. The dinner is an opportunity to meet the leaders of the congregation, other new members and find out about the congregation’s new and innovative programs. In January, SLJC will kick off its adult education program with classes in Hebrew taught by a member of the congregation and classes on Jewish topics taught by Rabbi Wiener on Tuesday afternoons in the Chapel Center. In addition, an

adult bar and bat mitzvah group will be formed to begin studying for this milestone event. Additional information on these classes is available on the SLJC website at sljc.org.

2017 Schedule

Jan. 13: Service honoring officers, committees and volunteers, 7:30 p.m. Feb. 10: Shabbat service, 7:30 p.m. March 10: Service celebrating 25 years of service by music director and choir, 7:30 p.m. April 14: Yom HaShoah observance, 7:30 p.m. May 12: Shabbat service, 7:30 p.m. June 9: Annual healing service, 7:30 p.m.

Dementia program presentation Jan. 19 at Sun Lakes United Methodist Church A free program called “Dementia and the Brain” will be presented at Sun Lakes UMC from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19. The program is part of the ongoing “Grab a Plate and Educate” health and wellness series offered at SLUMC. The presenter will be Dr. Andrea An, who is on the stroke team at

Chandler Regional Medical Center and a founding partner of Neurology Associates of the East Valley. An earned her medical degree at New York Medical College and is a boardcertified neurologist. An will discuss the look of a healthy brain and what happens to the brain when dementia sets in.

The program is open to the community and will be held in the church’s Lindsay Hall. A box lunch will be served. The event is sponsored by Copper Creek Inn Memory Care Community, Koelsch Senior Community and Neurology Associates of the East Valley. RSVP to Maureen, Parish Nurse at Sun Lakes United Methodist Church, at 480-895-8766.

January 7-20, 2017

Get your game on at annual charity event It’s time for the Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation’s annual fund-raising event for local charities on Tuesday, Feb. 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Oakwood Clubhouse. There will be gift baskets, cash raffles, restaurant giveaways and a bake sale. Lunch catered by Stone & Barrel restaurant is included in the $30 registration fee. For more information, call Geri at 480-305-0123.

First Baptist Church of Sun Lakes A Church of Joy Committed to the perfect Word of God, living under the Lordship of Jesus Christ, and worshiping with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs.

Dr. Marc Drake, Senior Pastor invites you to join in our traditional worship service at 9535 E. Riggs Road Sun Lakes, Arizona 85248

480-895-1088 www.fbcsl.org Sundays:

Bible Study: 8:30 am | Worship: 10:00 am Wednesday: Prayer & Bible Study: 6:30 pm