SanTan Sun News: Neighbors - Jan. 9, 2016

Neighbors

New role continues chef’s lifelong love of food industry

BY ALISON STANTON

One of Michael Hoobler’s earliest memories is standing on a milk crate washing dishes in his father’s Sun City supper club in the 1980s.

“I grew up in the restaurant industry, and I remember working during weekends in the summer,” he said.

After mastering dishwashing, Hoobler graduated to a busboy and eventually started cooking at night.

“I really advanced pretty quickly,” he said.

The Chandler resident enjoyed his experiences so much at his family’s restaurant that he decided to pursue a career as a chef, working throughout the Valley at top-notch locales like the Royal Palms, Boulders Resort and Spa, DC Ranch and Desert Highlands Golf Club.

“Desert Highlands was my first club experience and I loved it,” said Hoobler, who focuses on Mediterranean cuisine.

Last year, Hoobler was hired as executive chef at Bistro 1528 at Encanterra Country Club in San Tan Valley.

He said the club’s proximity to his home along with its positive work atmosphere inspired him to take the position.

“I worked with focus groups, and then I rolled out all brand new menus in October, which were all received very well,” he said.

He is preparing to roll out new menus at the end of January.

“In the club industry, change is good. The bulk of our business is primarily from

Chef Michael Hoobler, who was recently hired as executive chef at Encanterra Country Club, has fond memories of working at his father’s restaurant. Submitted photo

“A lot of it was Encanterra’s culture. In our industry the environment we work in is just as important as everything else, and I want to be happy in my work life. Here, the culture is all about family,” he said.

During his first six weeks at Encanterra Country Club, Hoobler said he observed the venue’s activities.

membership, so it’s important to offer new things.”

Although Hoobler said Bistro 1528 offers primarily the Mediterranean-inspired cuisine that he knows and loves, he strives to keep plenty of familiar foods on the menu.

Donnelly star QB in Cardinals’ eyes

BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON

Audrea Donnelly, a local resident, mom and active community volunteer, was awarded the Arizona Cardinals Community Quarterback Award in December.

Selected out of hundreds of other nominees for her dedication to Valley animals, Donnelly received a $5,000 check on the field during halftime of a home game. The proceeds will go to the C.A.R.E. Medical Fund, an organization that Donnelly founded that provides emergency medical funding and assistance to local shelters.

It’s just one of the many ways Donnelly is involved in assisting homeless East

Valley cats and dogs.

“I want people to understand that you can find some of the best pets in a shelter,” Donnelly said. “There is such a huge misconception that they are all broken and abused and don’t make very good pets. All of my dogs have been rescues and, with over 200 dogs and cats entering Valley shelters every day, we need start thinking adoption over purchasing a dog or cat.”

Donnelly explained that when her lab died at the age of 14 she decided that, instead of adopting another dog, she would start fostering.

“The need for foster families was

Lions Club’s Casino Night benefits special needs summer camp

BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON

When it comes to service organizations, Lions Clubs International is by far one of the most well-known groups worldwide.

According to the club, Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club organization with more than 1.4 million members in approximately 46,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas around the world.

Locally, the Sun Lakes Lions Club raises funds through a variety of projects to benefit the blind and other special needs

individuals in Arizona. One such major project is the club’s upcoming 12th annual Casino Night that benefits Lions Camp Tatiyee, which has served as the only free special needs camp in Arizona since 1958. Casino Night takes place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30, at the Sun Lakes Country Club, 25425 S. Sun Lakes Blvd. Sun Lakes Lions Club Past President Forrest Cheuvront said the ongoing event brings in an estimated $5,000 to $7,000 annually for the campers at Lions Camp Tatiyee.

Drink to your health with Ocotillo Village Pint Club

There’s a new movement in the East Valley that is off and running, literally. Led by a group of fun-loving runners at the Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa in Chandler, the “Pint Club—Pub Runs” are new ways to work out and socialize with fellow exercise lovers. Ocotillo Village

personal fitness/running trainer Faye Del Mundo said the new club appeals to runners looking for something a little different.

Running clubs are concerned solely with running and trying to have the fastest people in the club,” Del

“I want the menu to reflect our diverse members. Some of them want to come in and wine and dine for three hours, and others want comfort foods, so I try to come up with things that appeal to everyone.”

In addition to his chef hat, Hoobler said he figuratively keeps his business hat on at all times, working hard to make sure he orders top-quality and seasonal ingredients.

“Since our growing seasons are not year round, I start local and then move out from there to California and other places,” he said.

“While everyone would like to use all-natural ingredients all of the time, I also have to look at price points and economics.”

Besides Mediterranean food, Hoobler said he has become a big fan of Southwestern cuisine, and he also loves making fruit and vegetable blends for his

toddler daughter.

“I will also always go back to my Mediterranean roots, where I learned a lot of skills and cuisine,” he said.

Heimo Brandstatter, club manager at Encanterra Country Club, worked with Hoobler at the Boulders. He said he is “ecstatic” to work with Hoobler again.

“Michael is the consummate professional on all levels, and there’s no question that he has the pedigree and background and culinary experience that rivals some of the top chefs in the Valley,” Brandstatter said.

He added he enjoys Hoobler’s creativity.

“Michael is not only an exceptional culinarian, he is also a strong manager and is very methodical in his approach. He also has great mentorship skills, and it’s fun to watch him work in the kitchen with others.”

For more information about Bistro 1528, visit www.encanterragolf.com/encanterra.

Academy working to take the anxiety out of golf

Golf Academy of America instructor Warren Pitman said he hopes to make golf a little less intimidating with his seminar from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9.

This educational seminar will go over basic golf lingo, rules and overview; inexpensive ways to get started; golf course and golf facility expectations; how to practice; what to practice and managing a round of golf.

The event will be held at Golf Academy of America, 2031 N. Arizona Ave., Suite 2, Chandler, near Arizona

Avenue and Warner Road, and costs $25.

Pitman played in several top-tier events during his junior and collegiate career. His resume includes play at multiple American Junior Golf Association tournaments, 1988 U.S. Amateur, 1998 West Junior, 1990 Western Amateur and the 1990 U.S. Open. He has a passion to introduce new entrances to the game and believes in making the game fun for everyone.

To register, visit http://bit. ly/1QeseDw.

“This is our 12th annual event and the proceeds go to benefit the special needs population of Arizona by providing a ‘campership’ for them to attend Lions Camp Tatiyee,” Cheuvront said. “The camp is the only organization in Arizona that provides special needs children and adults the chance to experience a week of camp in the White Mountains free of charge to them and their families.”

The camp provides opportunities for individuals ages 7 and up and campers are grouped together by their age and types of disability, Cheuvront added.

“Challenges that our campers live with include, but are not limited to, spinal injury, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, amputees, deafness, blindness and developmental challenges,” according to the camp’s official website, www. arizonalionscamp.org.

The camp provides traditional summer camp type activities, including fishing, swimming, hiking, archery, art, nature exploration, recreation and more.

Cheuvront said that the camp gives special needs adults and children the opportunity to challenge themselves, gain independence, make new friends, and have experiences they might not normally have the opportunity to enjoy otherwise.

When it comes to fundraising events, he said the annual Casino Night made sense when founded in 2004 and has been a highly anticipated event every year.

“A lot of people in this area enjoy going to the casino; it’s a great time that benefits a good cause,” Cheuvront affirmed.

“We [the Lions Club] serve primarily blind people and others with special needs; I’ve been involved for more than 20 years and have enjoyed my experience with the Lions as a whole,” he added.

This year, Casino Night has dealers and wait staff provided by Harrah’s Ak-Chin Hotel and Casino and different gaming tables will be available for various levels of play. The cost is $20 per ticket for online presale and $25 per ticket at the door.

To learn more, including how to purchase presale tickets, visit www. arizonalionscamp.org/casino-night.

Mundo said.

“What we are trying to create with our Pint Club—Pub Runs, is to get a group together where having fun is first and foremost, and the running is actually secondary. It’s about supporting and helping, particularly newcomers, beginners, and making sure everyone enjoys the running experience and meets great people and have fun at the same time.

“After all, our club motto is “Drinkers with a running problem,” she added with a laugh.

The Ocotillo Village Pint Club hosts events every other Wednesday. Runners and walkers of all levels meet at the club before making their way to a local restaurant/pub to enjoy a drink. After running together and celebrating with a cold beverage, the group returns to the Ocotillo Village to enjoy a special happy hour and raffle prizes.

“Here at the Ocotillo Village, we think of ourselves as a social club at heart—for those who love fitness,” said Rodney Kinney, director of

programs and events.

“We are here to have fun, and still be committed to building a positive and encouraging community of people who enjoy running and the social camaraderie that comes with running together.”

The cost is $20 for members; $30 for nonmembers and it includes a T-shirt, LED light armband and one beverage each week for the entire series.

Upcoming Ocotillo Village Pub Run Club dates

The Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa in Chandler offers “Pint Club—Pub Runs” every other Wednesday. Here are the forthcoming events, all of which meet at 5:30 p.m.

• Jan. 20 and April 20 at BLD Restaurant and Lounge

• Feb. 3 at Rock Lobster Sushi Room

• Feb. 17 at Zipp’s Sports Pub at Fulton Ranch

• March 2 at The Ivy Mediterranean Lounge

• March 16 at Whiskey Rose Pub at Fulton Ranch

• April 6 at Garcia’s Restaurant Pub at Fulton Ranch

Chompie’s goes wild for pastrami on new winter menu

A European dish, Pastrami was perfected in New York delis and is a Chompie’s staple. Chompie’s is offering six different pastrami dishes on its new winter menu that debuted on Jan. 7— just in time for National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day on Thursday, Jan. 14.

Pastrami was created as a way of drying and preserving meat that was seasoned with garlic, coriander, black pepper, paprika, cloves, allspice and mustard seeds. This 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.

While pastrami is typically made with beef, Chompie’s new menu uses the restaurant’s special pastrami rub on chicken, turkey and burgers to create dishes everyone will love:

• Park Ave Reuben: Traditional New York pastrami grilled on double-baked rye bread ($17.99)

• NY State Pastrami Chicken Reuben: Chicken breast rubbed with Chompie’s housemade pastrami spice ($15.99)

• Paradise Pastrami Burger: Seasoned with Chompie’s pastrami rub, topped with NY pastrami, fried onion strings, Swiss cheese and 1000 Island dressing and served on a Brioche bun ($15.99)

• Pastrami Chicken Breast Sandwich ($12.99)

• Housemade Pastrami Turkey Breast ($12.99)

• Housemade Pastrami Turkey Sliders ($12.99).

To celebrate National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day, Chompie’s is offering a free mini black and white cookie to anyone ordering the restaurant’s Mile High Hot Pastrami Sandwich.

Chompie’s winter menu also includes new grilled cheese sandwiches, salads, sliders and tapas:

• Grilled Cheese Please! ($10.99): Grilled roast beef, grilled Boar’s Head ham, grilled turkey breast and grilled turkey pastrami

• Chop! Chop! Salads ($10.99): Barbecue Chicken Salad, Chop Chop Chicken Salad, Chop Chop Turkey and Southwest Crispy Chicken Salad

• New Sliders ($12.99): Buffalo Chicken Sliders with three mini challah rolls filled with chicken breasts, buffalo sauce, pepper jack cheese and ranch dressing; Chicken Waffle Sliders with mini waffles stuffed with two chicken breast tenders. Add real maple syrup for $1.49

• Latke Tapas: Greek Tapas ($9.99): Latkes topped with sautéed spinach, garlic and melted feta cheese; Southwestern Tapas ($9.99) are latkes topped with cream cheese, diced tomato, cucumber and onion marinated in lemon vinaigrette and Lovey’s Smoked Salmon Tapas ($11.99) are latkes topped with sour cream, sautéed Nova lox and garnished with tomato, cucumber, onion and capers.

Chompie’s is located at 3481 W. Frye Rd., Chandler. For more information, call (480) 398-3008 or visit www.chompies.com.

Museum, The Ostrich host trivia night with ‘Hipstorian’

The Chandler Museum is joining with The Ostrich Bar at the San Marcos Resort to present a Trivia Night from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19, hosted by Marshall Shore, who is known as Arizona’s Hip Historian or ‘Hipstorian’.

Attendees will be able to enjoy delicious food and some of the best cocktails in the Valley while their knowledge of Chandler and the state is tested. Shore will also share stories about the San Marcos Hotel’s past, with topics ranging from famous celebrity visitors, tales of murder and kidnapping, enterprise and, of course, ostriches. “We are excited to be partnering with The Ostrich and Marshall Shore,” said Jody Crago, museum administrator at Chandler Museum. “It is sophisticated fun with a host who will keep everyone entertained with local stories and photos

from the museum’s archive.”

“Marshall’s trivia nights have a cult following in Downtown Phoenix,” said Mike Merendino, owner of The Ostrich and upstairs restaurant Crust. “We are really looking forward to bringing this event to the East Valley. I cannot wait for attendees to hear some of the fantastic stories that happened right here in Downtown Chandler. People will not want to miss this.”

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

There is no cover charge for this event. For more information or to make reservations, call (480) 917-4903.

Finding the ‘perfect companion’ for caregiving needs

BY MARJORIE RICE

When a family member is elderly or ill and needs in-home care, finding help can be a frustrating and exhausting experience.

Wendy Stoeckel is a case in point. Her mother, who lives in Northern Arizona, is undergoing treatment for cancer, staying with Stoeckel when she comes to the Valley for medical treatment. Stoeckel needed home care for her mom while she was away at work.

“I interviewed a couple of large companies that provided caregiving,” Stoeckel said. “I didn’t feel they were a good fit. I was looking for a more personal touch and a compassionate person who really does care.”

She finally found it in Jon Siegel and his company, The Perfect Companion.

“One of the hospice companies I contacted recommended Jon,” Stoeckel said. “I got a great feeling from him.”

“Our whole business is based on trust and a personalized approach,” said Siegel, a clinical psychotherapist for more than 30 years and a certified Medicare provider since 1991, specializing in the field of adult/ geriatric psychotherapy. Siegel founded The Perfect Companion in 2008 and began serving clients mainly in Phoenix, Carefree and Scottsdale/ Fountain Hills. He is expanding to serve the Chandler/Sun Lakes area.

Many companies offering care services are franchises, Siegel said.

“We’re different in that we’re clinically based. We’re one of the few care providers that I know of who can say that. By clinically based, I mean we have somebody who is a professional in the field who knows what the medical and psychosocial issues are and who takes a holistic approach to helping the client.

“Being a social worker/psychologist who specializes in the geriatric field— and one who makes house calls—really sets me apart.”

Siegel begins each client relationship with an in-depth assessment of the patient, including family dynamics.

“I meet every one of our clients and talk them to one-to-one,” he said.

““All of our care is individualized. How can you send out a caregiver without meeting the client personally first and finding out about their individual needs?

“If it’s appropriate for us to be involved, we will be involved. However, we’re also an information resource. I have a very large number of contacts and can refer someone to placement services, social workers and other people who also can help. I help many people in that way, and I do it without charge.”

Siegel’s clinical assessment includes more than medical and psychological issues. “I also look at the house and give the clients information about steps they can take to prevent problems,” he said. Those steps include

removing throw rugs, which can be trip and fall hazards, and installing grab bars in the bathroom and shower.

Once he has an understanding of the client’s current and potential needs, Siegel works with the family to develop a plan of care and services. Those cover a broad spectrum, from companionship, meal-preparation and shopping to hygiene support,

medication reminders, bathing, help with dressing and other personal care issues. Medical assistance can include monitoring vital signs, catheter and wound care, rehabilitative therapy and other services.

“When you’re dealing with the elderly it’s really important to know what their problems are going to be, in addition to what may be occurring at

present,” Siegel said. “We want to take a preventive approach.”

Another service Siegel provides is recommending assisted living and care homes for clients who need that level of care. “I visit these homes often, and I know which ones are good,” he said. As the level of care increases for our clients and they need to go into a more structured environment, I can refer them to very good situations. That can eliminate long hours of shopping around that many family members undertake. Instead, I can take them to four or five homes that I know will be a good fit.”

Siegel’s interest in geriatrics stretches back to his days in graduate school. “It was in the 1970s and I was the only one in my group who took an internship in a nursing home,” he said. “People asked me why. I answered that when we get older all of us are going to need someone who can help us with the process of aging.”

Siegel started The Perfect Companion after talking to medical professionals in Scottsdale and Fountain Hills who suggested he set up a non-medical in-home care company because they were having trouble finding caregivers whom their patients liked. “I thought I could develop a company with a concierge-boutique approach,” he said. “Our approach is working—we’ve grown 100 percent each year over the last five years.” His medical contacts also helped Siegel’s new business by recommending

candidates for his caregiving staff. Currently, the company has 35 fulltime caregivers and a varying number of part-time employees who fill in as needed.

Siegel’s expansion plan will include modules with approximately 20 to 25 clients each, managed by an individual with a medical background. “I think the Chandler/Sun Lakes area is ripe to grow,” he said. Finding the right caregivers will be key to his company’s successful expansion, Siegel said. “My whole goal is to match up the individual skill sets and the personalities of our caregivers with the individual needs and personalities of our clients. Wherever possible, we have the same caregiver go to the client each time.”

Caregivers currently are independent contractors. “I’m thinking as our core group grows, we’ll consider what we can do to make a change in that model,” Siegel said.

The Perfect Companion is seeking caregivers for the Chandler-Sun Lakes area, said Mark Lewis, director of business development for the company. For information. call (602) 300-5018.

In addition to the expansion plans, Siegel and Lewis are working on a program to improve in-home care and prevent re-occurring emergency room admissions and hospitalizations.

The program deals with issues such as fall prevention, identification and recognition of urinary tract infections

and TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack, also known as mini strokes). “You can have up to 300 of those strokes per year and you don’t even know you’ve had them,” Siegel said. “As a result your memory could be short-term or depleted. TIAs also can affect falls.”

The program is called EIPPO (Education Intervention Prevention = Preferred Outcome). EIPPO encompasses fall prevention, and checking for medication issues. It also includes care for issues resulting from Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, and development of a plan of care to help clients plan for and manage future issues.

The Perfection Companion specializes

While he’s excited about EIPPO and his company’s expansion plans, Siegel’s first focus is on his clients, and he keeps close contact with each one.

“I meet with my clients on a weekly basis,” he said.

Clients like Stoeckel appreciate that personal touch.

Her mother’s treatment schedule varies—sometimes one or two days a week, sometimes a whole week, Stoeckel said. “Despite that, we’ve had the same person come most of the times. Perfect Companion has been good at accommodating our needs. It gives me peace of mind knowing that mom’s safe. It’s a godsend to not have to worry that she’s alone, that she’s being taken care of.”

Stoeckel said she particularly appreciates Siegel’s hands-on approach. “He follows up and will give me a call to ask how things are doing. He checks up on me, too, not just my mom. That’s so helpful because the family caregiver kind of gets lost in the shuffle.Joann Stewart, a secondgeneration patient, agreed. “Jon is very patient and kind and is a good listener. He took care of my mom, and then this year when I had surgery he took care of me. I really appreciate Jon’s guidance. I have such confidence in knowing that he’s there for my mom and me.”

The Perfect Companion Inc. can be reached at (602) 300-5018. For more information, visit www. azperfectcompanion.com.

Plan a wedding in a few hours at downtown walk

Engaged couples—or those thinking about marrying—can find businesses to help with planning the blessed event during the Downtown Chandler Wedding Walk from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28.

Check-in for the event is at the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort, and attendees will weave their way throughout the historic colonnade to view participating businesses along San Marcos Place and Boston Street.

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

During the event, guests are

encouraged to share their experiences via #chandlerweddingwalk.

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

Raffle prizes for the event total over $4,000, with grand prizes including $1,000 off a SoHo63 Wedding Rental Package, $500 off any full DePoy Studios Wedding photography collection, and $500 off a wedding dress from Uptown Bridal. Winners of the prizes will be chosen at 7 p.m. at the mock reception at SoHo63. Guests must be present to claim a prize.

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

so great in Maricopa County that I volunteered to be a foster for Arizona Labrador and Giant Breed Rescue. Since that time, I have fostered over 50 dogs and puppies in my home.”

Then, she said, about six years ago she connected with volunteers and staff at Apache Junction Animal Control (also known as Paws & Claws Care Center).

“I began speaking with the volunteers and staff at the shelter and they told me how not many people knew that their shelter even existed,” Donnelly recalled. “It bothered me that these dogs and cats were losing their lives because they weren’t being seen by the very community that they served, or anyone for that matter. That’s when I began photographing them weekly and posting them on social media. The Facebook page that I started in 2009 has nearly 6,000 followers and I continue photographing and posting pictures of the adoptable dogs and cats weekly.”

In addition to her work with Paws & Claws Care Center via social media and photography, Donnelly is also a shelter volunteer for the center, still a foster for Arizona Labrador and Giant Breed Rescue, and a shelter photographer and member of HeArts Speak, a global network of artists that provide services to rescue organizations and shelters free of charge, she said.

In addition, she founded the C.A.R.E. Medical Fund.

“C.A.R.E. Medical Fund came about in 2013 because the shelter did not have the funds to treat sick or injured animals that came to the shelter. Unfortunately, these animals had to be euthanized and that didn’t sit right with me,” she said. “I

started the fund so that I could provide those funds and get the animals seen by a vet whenever they needed. I never wanted money, or lack thereof, to be the deciding factor of whether or not to save an animal.”

It was through Vickie Sullivan, a fellow volunteer with the Paws & Claws Care Center, that Donnelly was nominated for the Arizona Cardinals Community Quarterback Award.

“Audrea has improved the lives of many shelter animals through her C.A.R.E. Fund, her volunteer hours spent at Paws and Claws helping the animals, driving them to and from veterinary appointments, [and] helping network the many homeless pets on social media,” Sullivan wrote in her nomination of Donnelly for the award.

“She has been one of the main reasons Apache Junction Animal Control has gone from a 60 percent kill rate when she started volunteering to now 96 percent no-kill.”

“Her C.A.R.E. Fund has given animals a new lease on life, a second chance in new homes, and has turned them from unadoptable, pitiful creatures into healthy, highly adoptable pets (since C.A.R.E.’s inception in 2013, well over 100 animals have been saved from certain death).”

Donnelly invited other locals to get involved in making a difference.

“Everyone can make a difference. Whether it’s adoption, fostering, volunteering or donating to your local shelter or rescue,” she said. “We need to work together as a community and it starts with one person.”

To learn more, search Facebook for “Friends of Apache Junction Animal Control” and “like” the page.

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, www.aboutcare.org

Absolute Business Builders: Business Networking International

8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays Chompie’s 3841 W. Frye Rd., Chandler

Info: Nikki Janulewicz, (480) 570-1835, Nikki@azbestmove.com

Action Networkers: Business Networking International 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays

Chompie’s 3841 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Marty Recht, (602) 315-2056, Marty@AZMarty.com

Alzheimer’s Association Desert Southwest Chapter, Chandler 5:30 p.m. second Thursday of the month Support group for caregivers of

people with dementia. Free and no preregistration required. Chandler Regional Medical Center, Morrison Building, Learning Resource Room 1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler Info: Mindy, (602) 528-0545, ext. 201

American Legion James O. Schroeder Post 55

7 p.m. third Tuesday of the month

Sun Lakes Country Club, Navajo Room 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes Info: Commander Byron Weston, (480) 802-6623

Arizona Special Education Network, Chandler area

Provides disability-related education, advocacy and resources to help parents navigate the complex special education system.

Info: (602) 531-0230

Breast Cancer Support Group 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. second Monday of each month

Free, no preregistration required

Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers

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

Build Your Own Business: Chandler

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

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

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

Cancer Caregiver Support GroupChandler

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, www.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, www.ironwoodcrc.com

Chair Yoga Class-Chandler

10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Wednesdays

Free, no preregistration required

Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers

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

Chandler Airport Commission

7 p.m. second Wednesday of each month The commission makes recommendations to the Chandler City Council regarding airport operations, physical growth, economic development and proposed land use.

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

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and wellness programs, including innovative programs for memory care

Inner Vision Yoga hosts 7-day retreat to Mexico

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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, www.chandleralliance.com

Chandler Chamber Business Golf

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

Includes nine holes of golf, continental breakfast and networking opportunities. Preregistration required online. Golf venue varies. Info: www.chandlerchamber.com

Chandler Farmers Market

3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursdays Weekly market with more than 30 vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, gourmet food and handmade crafts. Free admission.

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

Chandler Lions Club

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

Area residents are invited to join likeminded volunteers and make new friends. Atria Chandler Villas, Community Room 101 S. Yucca St., Chandler Info: RuthJon Wick, (480) 895-3569, az1ruthjon@q.com

Neighbors

Chandler Rotary Club

12 p.m. first three Tuesdays of each month Service-oriented group meeting for fellowship, lunch and informative programs on local and global topics. Regular annual service projects, fundraisers and charitable donations. Serrano’s Mexican Restaurant 141 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler Info: www.chandler-rotary.org

Child-free Friends

First Thursday and third Saturday of each month

Times and locations vary Fun social club giving couples and singles without children an opportunity to meet one another and participate in a variety of activities. Info: www.childfree.meetup.com/274

Christian Business Networking, Chandler Bi-Monthly Chapter

7:30 a.m. second and fourth Tuesdays of each month

Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals.

Chandler Christian Church, Room B202

1825 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler Info: Maia, (480) 425-0624, www. christianbusinessnetworking.com

Countryman Chapter of the Korean War Veterans Association

10 a.m. fourth Tuesday of each month Sun Lakes Country Club, Friendship Room

25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes Info: Commander Joe Schneider, (480) 883-0122

East Valley Job Club

6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. last Monday of each month

Free group supporting the success of its members by talking candidly about job searching and career advancement. Open to the public.

Epiphany Lutheran Church, Room 325, South Campus

800 W. Ray Rd., Chandler Info: Jim, (480) 244-4953, evjobclub@ gmail.com

East Valley JCC Play Group

9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Fridays

Open to children 6 months to 23 months with their caregivers for singing, dancing, play and conversation.

Cost: Free

East Valley JCC

908 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler

Info: Pam Morris (480) 897-0588 or pam@evjcc.org

East Valley Marines

7 p.m. second Tuesday of each month Marine Corps League Detachment 1296. All Marines and FMF Corpsmen are welcome to help other Marines through social and charitable projects.

9240 S. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes Info: Chuck, (480) 250-0984, www. eastvalleymarines.org

Head & Neck Cancer Support Group

3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21 Ironwood Cancer & Research Center

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

Journaling Workshop

2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Free. Journals provided. Please preregister. Info: Kelly, (480) 340-4013, www.ironwoodcrc.com

Memory Care Support Group Support for those caring for a loved one with a memory loss disease such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Hosted by Copper Creek Inn Memory Care of Chandler.

10 a.m. second Tuesday every month Copper Creek Inn Community 2200 W. Fairview St., Chandler 10 a.m. fourth Friday every month Chandler Senior Center 202 E. Boston St., Chandler Info: (480) 634-4191

Metastatic Cancer Support Group

3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. fourth Wednesday of each month Free and no preregistration required. Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Info: Kelly, (480) 340-4013, www.ironwoodcrc.com

Moms Club of Chandler East For stay-at-home moms who live between McQueen and Gilbert roads and between Chandler and Ocotillo roads; see blog for full boundaries.

Playgroups, park days, special outings for kids, a monthly moms’ night out and more. Info: www.momsclubchandlereast.blogspot. com, momsclubchandlereast@gmail.com

Get fresh food fast at Graz Kitchen Fresh

BY JUDI KING

Marcus Gonzales has had a lifelong affair with food.

Growing up in South Phoenix, Gonzales recalls watching his greatgrandmother in the kitchen as she prepared everything from scratch, including her daily batch of tortillas. He wanted to help, but she would not allow it, telling him boys do not belong in the kitchen.

So he would sneak food and his sister’s pink Easy-Bake Oven and hide on the side of the house where he could create his own mini meals. Later, he worked for a year without pay in the kitchen of Chef Tony Hamati at Bravo Bistro.

Now he has taken his love of cooking to a whole new level, opening Graz (pronounced graze) Kitchen Fresh in Chandler.

Featuring uniquely crafted fare for breakfast and lunch, Graz is the result of Gonzales’ determination to create

delicious and healthy food. His motto is: “Not fast food. Fresh food fast!” Everything is made fresh in his cafe’s kitchen each day.

The menu is enticing and creative. On the sandwich board, there are offerings such as Mr. English, a feast of London broil, tavern ham, jalapeno spread and Swiss cheese on sourdough bread topped with Graz kale slaw ($8.75) or the popular, Zeus on Fire, which is made with sourdough bread, Greek spread, Havarti cheese, chicken, Napa cabbage, kale, red onion, cucumber and red wine vinegar ($8.50). Being a grilled cheese aficionado, I opted for the Four Cheese Salute, a perfect combination of Vermont white cheddar, mozzarella, sharp cheddar and Swiss on sour dough ($7). It was delicious.

The menu also includes vegetarian sandwiches, as well as salads, a deli section and sides—including the aforementioned Graz kale slaw made with kale, cabbage, dill, mint, feta and

honey vinaigrette. It was lighter and tastier than any coleslaw I have had.

From the breakfast menu you can choose one of the five types of steelcut oatmeal ($3.50) or select a breakfast sandwich such as Oh Bagel! Where Art Thou, a toasted bagel with scrambled eggs, cream cheese, cheddar cheese and ham or bacon ($7.25). You can also choose from a large selection of fruit, fresh baked pastries, yogurt parfaits and a variety of custom pressed juice blends, wheat grass shots and Graz custom blend coffee.

When asked how he came up with such novel ideas for his menu, Gonzales said he pulls from all the places he visited as a marine stationed in Europe.

Gonzales uses locally sourced quality ingredients in everything he makes. He whips up his specialty sauces, such as the honey vinaigrette, created from his own brand of natural raw desert honey and the Greek spread made with feta, fresh dill, lemon and peppers, using loads of fresh herbs and fruit to give everything a robust burst of flavor.

Graz Kitchen Fresh was voted No. 10

out of 529 restaurants on Trip Advisor Best Restaurants, for a reason. Everything at Graz is fresh, exceptional, original, homemade and absolutely delicious. This is a place you must try.

Graz Kitchen Fresh is located at 1005 S. Arizona Ave., in the San Tan Gateway Center, Chandler. For more information, call (480) 733-2472 or visit www. grazkitchenfresh.com.

Rawhide Snowy Christmas

Rawhide wrapped up its Snowy Christmas on Jan. 3, but that doesn’t mean that the fun has to end. There are still Western-themed attractions, a steakhouse with delicious food and a train for kids to ride through the town. For more information about Rawhide, visit www.rawhide.com. STSN photos by Kimberly Carrillo