SanTan Sun News;12-19-15: neighbors

Neighbors

BY TIM J. RANDALL

Karl-Michael Sala may be Chandler’s version of an ancestry whisperer.

He and his wife, Lynell, assist individuals wanting to trace their heritage and genealogy through their company GermanGenealogist.com.

“We have worked with hundreds of clients over the years, helping them find their history,” said Karl-Michael. “We like to say we are shedding light on your German and European ancestry.”

Sala started his career in ancestry in 1979, long before he founded the genealogy website in 2008, and way before the Internet.

A student at Brigham Young University, Sala looked into his roots.

“I wanted to chase down my own ancestry, so I headed up to Salt Lake City,” he said.

Prior to his leaving, a fellow student asked if Sala could do a little hunting on his past because he was making the trip.

“He paid me $20 and I was a professional,” Sala said with a chuckle.

that he not only had a talent for uncovering history, but a passion for it as well.

“My father always told me about a career: Find something you are willing to do for free, and then find a way to get paid for it,” said Sala. “That’s what I have

Sala had German ties, his mother was a native German and married his father, a U.S. Air Force member, in 1952. Sala also lived in Germany and Turkey in the early to mid-1970s.

Tracking down his ancestry led Sala to bring a revelation to his immediate family as well.

“I did some digging and ended up telling my grandparents who their grandparents were,” he said.

As Sala honed his craft, he realized

done all these years, and some clients actually pay me.”

With the growth and development of the Internet, Sala said much of the background research can be done online; however, he is quick to point out that the new sites such as ancestry.com, myheritage.com and others are not 100 percent reliable, and cannot fully take the

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Sean Larusso couldn’t see himself as a salon and spa owner 25 years ago. Now, he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“My grandfather was a barber in New York; my father a salon owner for 40 years,” said Larusso, who owns the four locations of Madison Avenue Salon and Day Spa in the Valley with his wife, Deborah.

“I’m an accountant by trade. I worked in Manhattan for almost three years for a big accounting firm. I came out here in the early ‘90s for a long weekend and fell in love with it.”

He packed up and moved cross-country and subsequently was employed by a local firm. Deborah worked as a stylist for a nearby salon.

BY ALISON STANTON

It may be hard to believe, but 2015 is about to draw to a close. To celebrate the end of this year while ringing in 2016, many area establishments are hosting special meals and other events for New Year’s Eve. For ideas, check out these festive options:

Bernard’s

People can celebrate the New Year at Bernard’s at Ocotillo Golf Resort. The restaurant is offering dinner seatings from

Larusso said he believed that he and Deborah had the formula for success. So in April 1998, the couple opened Madison Avenue Salon and Day Spa. Twelve of the original employees still work for the company.

“We’ve been fortunate enough to build something that people consider to be a career,” he said. “They’re here for an extended period of time. That has been

The meal will include a starter and dessert buffet and choice of entrée. From 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. patrons can enjoy live music and dancing with the Khani Cole Band, and conclude the evening with a champagne toast. The price is $90 per person; does not include tax and gratuity. Bernard’s is located at 3751 S. Clubhouse Dr. in Chandler. For reservations visit www. ocotillogolf.com.

something that’s been extremely rewarding for us.”

Madison Avenue Salon and Day Spa’s signature treatment from its spa is the three-and-a-half-hour Retreat Package. The $196 package includes a one-hour Swedish massage, a European facial, and a spa pedicure and manicure. It is being offered for $135 this holiday season.

Normally, the prices for the services are Swedish massage ($51 to $73); European facial ($66 to $80); spa pedicure ($46 to $53) and spa manicure ($26 to $32).

“It gives us the opportunity to touch base with all the different areas within the spa,” said Larusso, who added the prices are based on the technicians’ experience.

“That has been our staple package since day one when we opened almost 18 years ago. It’s been our No. 1 seller in terms of packages. I don’t think we’ve ever priced it that low. It’s aggressively priced with the hopes of selling a tremendous amount of them.”

The Larussos pride themselves on

considering their employees as family.

“What we enjoy is seeing people elevate their careers,” he said. “We’ve been doing this long enough. We’ve hired people anywhere from 16 to 60 years old.

“We’ve seen them purchase their first car. They’ve gotten married, had their first child, bought their first house, had their second child and their child—those things honestly are more rewarding than anything. Having had that impact on people is really what has glued us together to be the company we are today. We couldn’t do it without the amazing group of people who are around us.”

Madison Avenue Salon and Day Spa Chandler Fashion Center 3111 W. Chandler Blvd. Chandler 85226 (480) 899-8905

Foothills Vista Commons 4910 E. Chandler Blvd. Phoenix 85048 (480) 759-3308

GENEALOGY from page 41

place of good, old-school investigation.

“I always begin with, ‘Can the information provided be trusted?’” he asked. “Then I go about proving or disproving what is in front of me. We have found thousands of data, documents and images on thousands of ancestral family members.”

Lynell also is an active participant in the searches, according to Sala. “She is our research director and has cracked quite a few cases,” he said. “Together we can decipher the old handwriting better than 99 percent of the native Europeans.”

Chandler residents since 2008, the

Salas made the move to Arizona from Salt Lake City to be closer to their daughter, son-in-law and their grandchildren. “Our two sons have also lived in Arizona,” Sala said.

With hopes of continuing to grow their business in 2016, the Salas are planning ancestry and genealogy expeditions to Salt Lake City and Germany in the coming year and are seeking clients who want to uncover and learn more about their past.

“We would love to help individuals who are interested in their heritage and ancestry in Utah and the Old World,” said Sala.

Maximize workouts with MYZONE at Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa

From the office to the living room, technology is changing the way folks live, work and play. And now it’s even changing the way we stay in shape, thanks to wearable devices that help us work out smarter and more effectively.

Most recently the members of Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa were introduced to a state-of-the-art personal fitness wearable system to assist them in their quest to achieve their health and fitness goals. At the center of the MYZONE system is the MZ-3 Physical Activity Belt. The MZ-3 is a nextgeneration heart rate monitor used to provide members with instant, accurate and effortless feedback—from anywhere.

The MYZONE system uses personalized readings to inform exercisers of their workouts’ intensity levels in real-time on big screens around the club.

MYZONE also keeps track of information online so that members can see precisely how much progress they’ve made over time.

The system works by having members wear the MZ-3 activity belt, which sends readings to screens around the club and/or the MYZONE smartphone app. Through a series of personalized, color-coded activity tiles, users always know precisely what intensity zone (percentage of max heart rate) they are working in. This allows members to compare their effort

Earnest

Earnest in Chandler is hosting two seatings on New Year’s Eve—5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. The restaurant will serve a three-course prix fixe meal for $50 per person plus tax and gratuity. There will also be a masquerade party starting at 10 p.m. for $20 per person, which includes bar snacks and a glass of champagne. For more information, call (480) 883-3773. Earnest is located at 4991 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 1, in Chandler.

Murphy’s Law Irish Pub and Ale House New Year’s Eve revelers can enjoy a fun-filled night at no cost at Murphy’s Law. The party starts at 9 p.m. with music by cover band Kung Fu Grip. Reservations can be made ahead of time for $25 per person; this amount can be redeemed on New

Year’s Eve for food and drinks. Everyone in the pub will enjoy a champagne toast and party favors at midnight. Murphy’s Law Irish Pub and Ale House is located at 58 S. San Marcos Pl. in downtown Chandler. For information call (480) 812-1588 or visit www.murphyslawaz.com.

Chandler Center for the Arts Ring in the New Year under the big tent by enjoying a special Zoppé Family Circus performance at 7:30 p.m. on New Year’s Eve; the festive event includes party favors for the crowd. The 500-seat tent features a one-ring circus that stars Nino the clown. The circus follows one central story that includes acrobats, equestrian talent, canine acts, clowns and plenty of audience participation. Tickets range from $15 to $40. Chandler Center for the Arts is located at 250 N. Arizona Ave. in Chandler.

For more information or tickets, visit www.chandlercenter.org/family/13zoppe.

Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa

Both Ko’sin and Kai have special menus prepared for New Year’s Eve dinner service. Kai will feature a five-course and nine-course tasting menu with a holiday theme; the menu will include courses like pressurized kurobuta pork cheeks, stewed oxtail gaivsa, pickled cranberries, and mole rojo emulsion. Dinner service is from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and the two tasting menus will be priced from $140 to $225. For reservations at Kai, call (602) 385-5726 and reference “Holiday Dining.” Guests must designate which of the tasting menus they wish when making the reservation. Also, a four-course dinner will be offered by Ko’sin in place of its traditional dinner menu on New Year’s Eve. The four entrée options include braised lamb shank with charred heirloom carrots and Brussels sprouts, confit potatoes, rosemary pesto and roasted lab jus. Filet mignon and grilled prawns with a goat cheese potato puree, forged wild mushrooms and truffled bearnaise will be available as an alternate entree option. Vegetarian, vegan and child selections are available upon request. This holiday meal is $75 for adults, $95 including wine pairings and $69 for seniors. Reservations are accepted from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and can be made by calling (602) 385-5726. The resort is located at 5594 W. Wild Horse Pass Blvd. in Chandler.

Chompie’s

Chompie’s will be open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. In addition to its regular menu, guests can also choose a special dinner plate. The meal for $18.99

CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN

per person or $9.99 for children under 10 includes challah knot rolls with butter, a choice of matzo ball soup, mushroom barley soup or dinner salad, choice of an entrée, two sides, and Lovey’s Festive Holiday Dessert. The Chandler location is open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. New Year’s Eve and from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. New Year’s Day. For more details, visit www.chompies. com. Chompie’s is located at 3481 W. Frye Rd. in the Chandler Village Center.

SanTan Brewing Company

A special menu, champagne toast at midnight and party favors await revelers on New Year’s Eve at SanTan Brewing Company in Chandler. No reservations are accepted for the evening’s festivities. For more information, visit http:// santanbrewing.com/event/holidayhours-new-years-eve. SanTan Brewing Company is located at 8 S. San Marcos Pl. in Chandler.

Topgolf

Welcome 2016 with a swing at Topgolf in Gilbert and Scottsdale. The facility is offering a variety of options to help celebrate New Year’s Eve. For example, people can reserve a VIP Bay for up to six people for $450 from 9 p.m. to close. The VIP package includes unlimited Topgolf play, unlimited nonalcoholic beverages, one bottle of champagne, New Years Eve party favors and shareable dishes. General bay reservations are $75 for up to six people. This includes party favors and does not include game play. General admission at Topgolf is $10 on New Year’s Eve, and ages 12 and younger are free. Group bays can be reserved at www. topgolf.com/nye. Topgolf is located at 1689 S. SanTan Village Pkwy. in Gilbert, and

at

Zappone’s Italian Bistro

Diners will enjoy a special three-course menu at Zappone’s Italian Bistro on New Year’s Eve starting at 4 p.m. The meal, which is $45 per person not including tax and gratuity, offers a choice of appetizer, an entrée and a dessert. Enjoy live entertainment with Bill Malovich from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Zappone’s Italian Bistro is located at 1652 N. Higley Rd., Suite 103 in Gilbert. For more information, call (480) 218-2338 or visit www.zapponesbistro. com.

Thirsty Lion Gastropub and Grill

On New Year’s Eve, Thirsty Lion Gastropub and Grill at Tempe

Marketplace and Scottsdale Fashion Square is hosting a special limited edition dinner featuring three entrees. Thirsty Lion Gastropub and Grill is located at 2000 E. Rio Salado Pkwy., Suite 1041, in Tempe and 7014 E. Camelback Rd., Suite 1423, in Scottsdale. For more information, visit www.thirstyliongastropub.com.

Culinary Dropout

Diners at Culinary Dropout can sample a variety of tasty items on New Year’s Eve during a set six course tasting menu featuring items from the regular menu. The cost is $50, which includes a complimentary glass of champagne. The menu will be offered in addition to the regular menu on New Year’s Eve. Culinary Dropout is located at 149 S. Farmer in Tempe, at 5632 N. Seventh St. in Phoenix and at 7135 E. Camelback Rd., Suite 125, in Scottsdale. For more information, visit www.culinarydropout.com.

with others at the club.

The activity tiles also show calories burned, heart rate and MYZONE Effort Points (MEPs) accumulated for the session. This personal feedback allows members to put in optimum effort to obtain maximum results. Furthermore, this data is recorded within the user’s online personal activity report, accessible either through the MYZONE website or the smartphone app. After every workout session, the MYZONE system sends each user a personalized e-mail with the specifics of their workout.

The MYZONE system allows users to tap into his/her competitive instincts. The more time spent exercising, and the higher the intensity of that exercise, the more MYZONE Effort Points (MEPs) members earn. MEPs are earned for every minute spent working out in a personal intensity zone. Using MEPs allows users to participate in challenges and monthly leaderboards for the chance to earn prizes, all while improving their overall fitness level. Challenges and leaderboards make exercise fun and it drives a friendly competitive spirit. Keeping members motivated is the key. This system will also be used in organized classes such as Group Fitness, Group Training and Studio Cycle.

The MZ-3 belt is available for purchase at the front desk.

The Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa is located at 4200 S. Alma School Road in Chandler, AZ, 85248. For more information, call (480) 656-0045 or visit www.villageclubs.com.

Academy instructor working to take 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.

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 opened) 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.

Inner Vision Yoga hosts weeklong retreat to Mexico

Inner Vision Yoga is hosting a weeklong 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.

632-7899 to take advantage of the discount.

Kai named a top three restaurant

The retreat is all inclusive with ocean-front bungalow accommodations, amazing meals, daily private yoga classes, evening yoga workshops and other adventurous activities.

Register for double occupancy with a friend before Dec. 31 and each will receive 10 percent off plus a $50 credit toward a massage or excursion. Space is limited and interested participants should call Inner Vision Yoga at (480)

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.

Kai Restaurant was named the third best restaurant in the United States during the OpenTable Diners’ Choice Awards.

The restaurant, located at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa, was the only Arizona restaurant named to the list of the top 10 honorees. The list of winners is derived from more than 5 million reviews submitted by OpenTable diners for more than 20,000 restaurants in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

“We are thrilled to once again receive this important recognition from OpenTable diners,” said Lisa Mercer,

Marcos

director of food and beverage.

“Our dining guests are our most valued critics and we are humbled to receive their high praise and acclamation.”

“This year’s winners are elevating fine dining to delightfully dizzying heights,” said Caroline Potter, OpenTable chief dining officer.

“The 2015 Best Restaurants honorees have mastered the art of creating delicious experiences that diners will remember long after their last bite.”

For more information about all of the restaurants on this list or the selection process, please visit http://bit. ly/1QSPBzt.

Exercise, mental stimulation keep mind fresh

The Ed Robson Library is kicking off its winter reading program dubbed “Exercise Your Mind! Read!” with “Exercise and Mental Stimulation for Healthy Minds” from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 5.

Paige Fairbanks Gunn, who serves as Arizona director of community relations for Koelsch Senior Communities, will be the guest speaker.

Gunn will also discuss healthy

lifestyle tips for a healthy mind. On the day of the program, pick up a free ticket at the library front desk. There is a limit of two tickets per person. Seating is limited. Upon arrival, park in the church parking lot next to the library.

The library is located at 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. For more information, call (602) 652-3000, email pattydennehy@mcldaz.org or visit www.mcldaz.org.

‘This Old House’ seeking Phoenix-area submissions

The producers of “This Old House” are seeking homeowners who are ready to restore and remodel their house.

Any Arizona resident who has a house that needs saving or updating is encouraged to nominate their home to be featured on the next season of “This Old House.” From Pueblo Revival to Spanish Colonial to Art Deco, the series is accepting proposals for all housing types, styles and neighborhoods.

“‘This Old House’ is one of America’s most trusted and beloved home renovation programs,” said Arizona PBS General Manager Kelly McCullough. “The show’s talented crew makes remodeling homes both simple and exciting by blending the latest technology with years of experience and expertise. We would love to see the crew from ‘This Old House’ use their passion and quality

craftsmanship to revitalize an Arizona home.”

For 2016, “This Old House” will consider proposals through Dec. 31. The project should be ready to break ground in early spring 2016. To meet the show’s broadcast schedule, work should conclude by November 2016. The selected projects will be featured on multiple “This Old House” episodes premiering in the 2016-2017 season on Arizona PBS.

Complete details for entry submission are available at www.thisoldhouse.com/ pickmyhouse. Select homeowners will be contacted by show producers for further interviews.

Arizona PBS is a member-supported community service of ASU and the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

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 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, 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

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 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

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: Cmdr. 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. 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

Moms Club of Chandler San Tan For stay-at-home moms who live

between McQueen and Greenfield roads and between Ocotillo Road and Hunt Highway.

Weekly get-togethers, outings for moms and kids, moms’ night out and more. Info: www.momsclubchandlersantan. webs.com, momsclubchandlersantan@ gmail.com

Moms Club of Chandler-Ocotillo North Open to stay-at-home moms who live between Dobson and McQueen roads and between Queen Creek and Ocotillo roads. Age-appropriate playgroups, fun weekly activities, monthly Recipe Club and moms’ night out, plus community support events throughout the year. Info: www momsclubchandlerocotillonorth.com, ocotillonorth@yahoo.com

Mom-e Club Chandler

9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. second Wednesday of each month

Monthly networking group designed for local mom entrepreneurs to build business relationships and learn from others in similar situations.

Floridino’s Pizza

590 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler Info: www.mom-eclub.com

National Charity League Inc., San Tan Chapter

NCL fosters mother-daughter relationships in a philanthropic organization committed to community service, leadership development and cultural experiences. Daughters must be in sixth through ninth grades. Info: Suzanne, suzannepetty19@yahoo. com; www.nclsantan.org

Neighbors Who Care

Grassroots nonprofit serving homebound elderly in Southern Chandler and Sun Lakes since 1995.

1 p.m. fourth Thursday of each month: New volunteer orientation

10540 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes

1 p.m. Mondays: Caregiver discussion group

Risen Savior Lutheran Church

23914 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler

9 a.m. third Tuesday of each month: Educational workshop; call for details Sun Lakes United Methodist Church

9248 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes

1:30 p.m. Tuesdays: Educational workshop for caregivers

10540 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes

12:30 p.m. second Tuesday of each month: AARP driver safety course; call for reservations

10540 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes

8 a.m.-10 a.m. third Tuesday of each month: Auto check

Sun Lakes Country Club Phase 1

25425 S. Sun Lakes Blvd., Chandler Info: (480) 895-7133, nwcvvsc@gmail. com, www.neighborswhocare.com

Ocotillo Breakfast Club Toastmasters

7:45 a.m. to 9 a.m. Wednesdays

A weekly “learn by doing” workshop on public speaking and leadership abilities; new members welcome.

Gold Canyon Candle

6205 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler Info: www.obctoastmasters.com

Ocotillo Chamber of Commerce

9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. second Monday of each month

Business networking, coffee and learning meeting

Ocotillo Golf Resort

3751 S. Clubhouse Dr., Chandler Info: Marion, (480) 363-0014, www.ocotillochamber.com

Ocotillo Women’s League (OWL), Community Service Group 10 a.m. first Monday of each month

Women who reside in the Ocotillo area, want to have fun and perform local community service projects.

Ocotillo Golf Resort, Director’s Room 3751 S. Clubhouse Dr., Chandler Info: www.owlsgroup.org

Promenade Farmers’ Market 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturdays Produce, breads, jams, honey, olive oils, jewelry, soaps, candies, salsa, nuts, dog treats and gift items. Free and open to the public.

The Promenade at Fulton Ranch 4950 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler Info: Chris of Ray’s Market, (602) 2141653, www.raysmarket.net, www.promenadeatfultonranch.com

Prostate Cancer Support Group: sponsored by US Too 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. second Monday 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

Soroptimist International of the San Tans 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. Thursdays Service club for women business owners and professionals dedicated to improving the quality of life for women

and families. Call ahead for a reservation. Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort One N. San Marcos Pl., Chandler Info: (602) 999-1410, www.si-santans.org, siofsantans@yahoo.com

Suggesting and Empowering the Vision of Entrepreneurial Networking (S.E.V.E.N.) – Chandler 9 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Thursdays Networking group for women entrepreneurs.

BLD

1920 W. Germann Rd., Chandler Info: www.s-e-v-e-n.org, info@s-e-v-e-n.org

Sun Lakes Breakfast Lions Club 8 a.m. second and fourth Wednesdays of each month

For those who like to help others. Sun Lakes Country Club 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes Info: Jim Brotherton, (480) 802-7318

Tai Chi Class - Chandler 4:30 p.m. to 5:15 p.m., first and fourth Tuesday of the month Free, no preregistration required Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler Info: Sandra, (480) 855-2224, www.ironwoodcrc.com

Teen Education Encouragement Networking and Support (TEENS) 4 Teens 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Thursdays Offers support and guidance to teen moms and their babies. Chandler Regional Medical Center,

NETWORKS from page 51

Morrison Building

1875 W. Frye Rd., Chandler

Info: Lindsay Robertson, (480) 728-3918, www.chandlerregional.org

Terrific Tuesdays

10:30 a.m. Tuesdays Speakers, authors, art presentations and educational endeavors for all active adults.

East Valley JCC

908 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler

Info: Adrian Bendick, (480) 897-0588 or info@evjcc.org

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly)

5:15 p.m. Thursdays

Weight-loss support group general meeting.

Kon Tiki Mobile Home Village 555 W. Warner Rd., Chandler Info: Jackie, (480) 206-9078

Valued Voices Toastmaster Club

12 p.m. to 1 p.m. Thursdays General meeting focusing on speaking and leadership skills.

Chandler Fire Department Administration Building, second floor 151 E. Boston St., Chandler Info: (602) 740-0159, www.valuedvoices. toastmastersclubs.org

Veterans of Foreign Wars

7 p.m. Wednesdays

The VFW hosts a bingo night with proceeds benefiting disabled or homeless veterans. Win as much as $500. All are welcome.

Sun Lakes Country Club

25801 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes Info: (480) 895-2257; Cmdr. Gene Nelson, (480) 659-5510

POWWOW produce available Jan. 9

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

November through May. The next scheduled event is from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan 9, in the parking lot of Desert Palms Church, 4265 S. Arizona Ave.

For more information, visit its Facebook page at www.Facebook. com/POWWOWatDPC.

Dvine Bistros announce New Year’s Eve menus

Dvine Bistros in Chandler and East Mesa have designed a three-course menu for $45. The two-hour seatings will be offered at 5 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. The three course meal comes with the choices below:

• Appetizers: Seared beef; wild mushroom and black truffle gnocchi; bacon sea scallops or Brussels sprouts.

• Entrees: Filet mignon; sea bass; osso bucco or cioppino.

• Dessert: Lemon meringue or chocolate cheese cake.

Paris James performs low-volume soul and blues covers, while a complimentary champagne will be offered at midnight.

To make reservations in Chandler, call (480) 782-5550.

Chandler Museum, The Ostrich to host trivia night with Marshall Shore

The Chandler Museum and The Ostrich Bar are hosting trivia night with Arizona Hipstorian Marshall Shore from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19.

Attendees will enjoy delicious cocktails and bites as they test their knowledge and learn more about the stories that make up the San Marcos Hotel’s past. There are tales of murder, kidnap, enterprise, celebrity 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, near the San Marcos, at 10 N. Marcos Pl., in Chandler.

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

Breakfast with Santa

for Kids hosted a Breakfast with Santa and donation drive event, which featured appearances by Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Daniel Hudson, ASU men’s gymnastics team and food trucks. Kartwheels for Kids raises money to award children with scholarships to attend gymnastics programs in Arizona that they might not otherwise consider possible.