12 21 13stsn p26 38 youth by Times Media Group

Youth

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

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Gymnasts ‘Aspire’ to be the best BY TRACY HOUSE

Scott Barclay, the owner of Aspire Kids Sports Center in Chandler, has a lot to be proud of these days. Two of the young men he trains recently competed at the World Age Group (WAG) Championships in Soﬁa, Bulgaria. Jerrett Jensen, 18, competed in trampoline and double mini trampoline, while Josh Browne, 16, competed in power tumbling and double mini trampoline. The boys were part of 80 U.S. athletes in Bulgaria. The boys went to Bulgaria with the delegation from the WAG Championships. Jerrett says that it was a culture shock going to Bulgaria. It was like going back in time; transportation was the same but human interaction was different. “The difference in the history aspect—it was completely different going over there,” Jerrett says. The architecture was striking—a mixture of the old with the new. However, housing was lackluster. “It was a shock to see.” Jerrett mentions that the people of Bulgaria acted differently than what he is accustomed to. “The way they hugged each other was different and was abrupt. And it was serious, there wasn’t any laughter on their faces. I couldn’t speak the language, but the way that they talked to each other was different.” He says mostly he felt welcomed. There was one time he tried to hail a

taxi, but was rejected because he was wearing his U.S.A. jacket. The team ate in the hotel and arena for planned, nutritious meals, but Jerrett says there were multiple McDonald’s and Burger King restaurants in the area. He explains the culture shock was more about the people than the area he was in. “They emailed us about a week before we left about the area.” He says they were cautioned about stray dogs and pick-pockets. “It was such an experience to see the way that other people live around the world.” Jerrett started training when he was 3 years old in artistic gymnastics. The Williams Field High School graduate took the fall semester off college to concentrate on the WAG championships. He plans to attend Chandler Gilbert Community College this spring. Josh is just as dedicated to improving his skills. The Gilbert resident opted to earn his GED because he would have missed too many days of school. He mentions he does have plans of going to college also. Barclay, who also serves as the Arizona State University gymnastics coach, says Jerrett is a natural at trampoline. He’s been coaching Jerrett and Josh for the last six months after their former coach moved. “These guys are so good,” Barclay says. “They’re on the elite level. They’re training up at a level very few kids are

ASPIRATIONS: Scott Barclay, left, owner of Aspire Kids Sports Center in Chandler, Josh Browne and Jerrett Jensen. Barclay coaches Josh and Jerrett in trampoline and tumbling. Submitted photo

training and therefore very few coaches are capable of training them.” Barclay stepped in with 35 years of experience at ASU to train with the boys ﬁve days a week, three hours a day. Their hard work and dedication was rewarded. Both the boys went to the national championships, the Stars and Stripes league in Florida, and from there were accepted on to the World Age Group Championships. “Only the top 80 kids in the country got to go to this,” Barclay says. The World Championships were also in Bulgaria, a week earlier, but are the senior elite kids. Jerrett and Josh are

the World Age Group, which Barclay explains, are like junior championships. Both boys will enter the senior league in 2014. The next national championship will be in July. To qualify Jerrett and Josh will need to acquire points through meets held throughout the year. There are three events—tumbling, trampoline and double mini trampoline, a combination of tumbling and trampoline. In trampoline, athletes have to perform a series of 10 skills. In tumbling, athletes have a series of passes, or a series of somersaults and twists, with speciﬁc requirements, all difﬁculty based like in ice skating.

Does Your Child Suffer From Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)? From Dr. Chamberlain’s Desktop SA and Sleep Disordered Breathing have largely gone unrecognized in children but can have serious implications. They can contribute to growth problems, Type 2 Diabetes, ADD, ADHD, autism, hypertension, stroke and even cardiovascular disease. The most Dr. Thomas Chamberlain common causes of OSA in children are lack of room for the tongue (narrow jaws, recessive upper or lower jaws or tongue tied), obstructive tissues such as enlarged tonsils and adenoids, large turbinate bones (in the nose) or a deviated septum in the nose. This disorder is extremely important to catch and reverse as improper breathing causes a decrease in blood oxygen levels throughout the night. This triggers a release of cortisol (the “fight or flight” stress hormone) that increases the heart rate and muscles as the child struggles for air. Although the person doesn’t actually wake, they are driven from deep

restorative sleep to “catch their breath.” Once they begin to relax to the deeper levels of sleep, it happens again. This is hard on the body—like exercising all night long. The unrested person awakes exhausted, but more importantly, prolonged levels of increased cortisol negatively affects the immune system, normal hormone production, insulin function, gastric acid production, learning and memory retrieval, and a host of other organ and body functions. An exam from an orthodontist with experience in sleep medicine, along with the aid of a certified sleep physician can help in the diagnosis and treatment of a person’s OSA. Treatment usually consists of sleep friendly orthodontics and/or a reduction of obstructive tissues. Recent studies have shown that the best results occur when both are completed. If you have a question whether or not your child has Obstructive Sleep Apnea or Sleep Disordered Breathing, give us a call today for a free consultation including a pediatric sleep questionnaire and analysis. Although 7-8 years of age is an important age for orthodontic correction, we can make a big difference in 3 to 6 year olds with some simple and timely care. With Dr. Chamberlain, Orthodontics is MUCH more than just straight teeth.

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www.SanTanSun.com “Josh made the finals and took 13th in tumbling and eighth in double mini,” Barclay says. In double mini, Josh received a zero on his first pass because he brushed the pad, however his second pass was the highest-scoring pass of the finals. Jerrett took second on double minis in the competition. “Both of these guys are tremendous on double minis,” Barclay says. Jerrett is the first Aspire athlete to medal in a world competition. “We’re really proud of him and Josh has a very bright future.” “It was good experience for them to compete on a level they have never competed on before to prepare them for the next step,” Barclay says. That next step is nationals next year and world championships as a senior. “I think they got fired up through this whole process.” Located at 50 S. Hearthstone Way, Chandler, Aspire Kids Sports Center opened in 2005 and was the first to start a trampoline and tumbling program in the state. The sports center is a 32,000-square-foot gymnastics and swimming facility offering classes for all ages in gymnastics, swimming, dance, martial arts, cheer, tumbling and trampoline. Call 480-820-3774 or visit aspirekidssports.com for more information. Tracy House is the SanTan Sun News news editor. She lives in Ironwood Vistas with her husband and four children and can be reached at tracy@santansun.

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

Holiday wrestling clinic rolls in New Year Boys and girls in kindergarten through eighth grade interested in learning the basic techniques of folk-style wrestling are invited to participate in a holiday wrestling clinic from 9 a.m. to noon Sat., Jan. 4, in the gym at Hamilton High School, 3700 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Cost for the clinic is $10. Each

participant should wear shorts, a T-shirt and wrestling or tennis shoes; no opentoed shoes are allowed. Participants are asked to arrive 15 minutes early for grouping. To register, visit CUSDcommunity. com and click on the Community Ed tab, then select CUSD Camps/Clinics. Online

registration accepts debit or credit cards only; to pay by check or money order, visit CUSD Community Education at 1525 W. Frye Rd. in Chandler. No cash is accepted and no walk-ups will be admitted.

Junior golf camps swing over winter school break Children ages 6 to 14 enrolled in kindergarten through eighth grade can spend part of their winter school break in Junior Golf Camps taught by PGA Professional staff at Bear Creek Golf Complex, 500 E. Riggs Rd., Chandler. Camps are held in two one-week sessions Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays Dec. 23 through Jan. 3. Students in kindergarten through fourth grade attend from 1 to 2 p.m. and students in fifth through ninth grades attend from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Camp sessions are limited in size, with a maximum child-to-instructor ratio of 8 to 1. Campers will be grouped by age and skill level and introduced to the basic principles and fundamentals of golf, including putting, chipping,

pitching, bunker shots and full swing with irons and woods. Safety, golf etiquette, sportsmanship and rules will be emphasized. Parents are responsible for providing clubs, sunscreen, drinks and snacks for their children; Bear Creek professional staff is available to assist in fitting children with ageand size-appropriate golf equipment. Appropriate golf attire should be worn at all times. Camp tuition of $60 per week covers instruction and range balls. In addition, Junior Camp students can play for free with a paid adult on the Cub Course during the entire week of the camp session; tee times are required. To register or learn more, visit bearcreekaz.com.

YOUTH CHRONICLES Scott Lloyd of Chandler is among University of Kansas fall 2013 candidates for degree. Scott is a graduate of Basha High School. He earned a bachelor of arts in linguistics.

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December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

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Learning Center’s Tomljenovic receives prestigious award Marty Tomljenovic, community outreach and special events director for Learning Center Public School district in Gilbert, was honored with the Knox Family Outstanding Volunteer for the Art’s Award during the fourth annual Mayor’s Breakfast with the Arts. Tomljenovic was recognized for her ongoing efforts for advancing the arts in Gilbert. From her commitment to arts education in her professional work at Learning Center Public Schools, to her frequent volunteerism with a variety of arts organizations and committees, Tomljenovic has raised the proﬁle of the arts in the East Valley. “She has had a particular impact on the growth of the Higley Center as a founding member of the advisory council and as

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THE PLAY’S THE THING

a member of several subcommittees for the past ﬁve years,” Gilbert Mayor John Lewis says. “This year, she agreed to lead the important Arts Affaire at the HCPA committee, the center’s annual fundraising event.” Tomljenovic builds relationships with local businesses and community organizations, plans special events, and directs fundraising efforts for the district’s schools, Fulton Ranch Learning Center in Chandler and San Tan Learning Center in Gilbert. “We’re very proud to have a powerful arts advocate on staff at Learning Center Public Schools,” says Dr. Kristofer Sippel, superintendent of the district. “It’s an honor to have Marty serve as a representative for our district in the larger East Valley community.”

STAGE CRAFT: Members of Arizona College Prep’s “Knights at the Theater” drama company rehearse for their presentation of Don Zolidis’ “Hamlet Thrill-Mageddon,” to run Thu., Jan. 30, through Sat. Feb. 1, at Hamilton High School, 3700 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Tickets are $8 for students and $10 for adults. Info: 480-424-8000. Submitted photo

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Youth

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

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December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

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Connect 5 Family Centers a one-stop family entertainment complex BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

The appeal of Connect 5 Family Centers is universal. Whether you come for an hour or stay the day, every visitor will find fitness, relaxation, great food, engaging parties and above all, fun. Connect 5 Family Centers is comprised of five distinct “neighborhoods” for kids and adults to discover. Discovery Park is chock full of fun and physical activities. “This is where kids can jump, play and run,” says Lisa Napoli, owner and director of operations. She earned a degree in child development and business administration. “Kids participate in developmental activities for the body and mind and there is always a coordinator in the room, so we’re always interactive with the kids.” Some age-appropriate activities could include tag, four square, basketball, active games or craft projects. Napoli says she likes to stop in and work on “sequencing” which is a pre-reading skill that kids enjoy. Discovery Park is open to children 6 months and older. (For children younger than 3, parents are asked to remain in Discovery Park.) Villari’s is the martial arts neighborhood which features a full schedule of classes. “When kids come in for martial arts, we always let them go play in Discovery Park. It’s just too tempting,” muses Napoli. The martial arts classes are very affordable and help teach bodily control, communication, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and project-based learning. Teen and adult classes are also available in the Villari’s neighborhood.

Whitening •

FUN, FUN, FUN: Kids of all ages enjoy the many activities at Discovery Park, one of the neighborhoods at Connect 5 Family Centers. Submitted photo

Forget what you might typically experience at other places with party rooms. Spotlight Celebrations is different. “The parties that we do aren’t just birthdays. We’ve done baptisms, First Communions and we also do charity events. This week we’re hosting a party for Cardon Children’s Hospital; a princess tea party and Cinderella and Belle will be joining us,” Napoli says. “When it comes to parties, I want to make sure we stand out.” Parties consist of much more than a room. Each party receives a party host, a fun revolving menu (think tiny glasses ﬁlled with tomato soup and rim-lined with grilled cheese wedges), ornately decorated rooms (including decorative seat covers hand sewn by Napoli), an art or craft, a game and possibly a martial arts class. “We make sure our parties are a lot

of fun and a two hour party goes by very fast,” she says. “While the kids are at the party, the parents are usually over at the Kicks Café relaxing, watching the game or using Wi-Fi.” Kicks Café has all kinds of kid friendly meals such as mac and cheese, chicken bites and rice bowls. “We make everything here on-site and then for the adults, we have rice bowls, wraps, salads and teriyaki pizzas. Parents can come in to enjoy free Wi-Fi, televisions and Pandora, but they can still easily see into Discovery Park. It’s a nice break for some parents,” Napoli explains, “And we’re always in the room with the children at Discovery Park. They’re never alone.” Mind and Motion is the ﬁnal neighborhood. “Mind and Motion is a neat concept. There are some great things coming into

the space,” explains Napoli. “People such as tumbling and music instructors and yoga classes for adults, kids and pre-natal are coming in. These are people that have all these talents and have nowhere to go. We have the facility, so they can come in here and teach the community. After the ﬁrst of the year, there will be a full calendar of classes available.” Another available class takes place on the third Saturday of each month. “We have a personal safety class for women. It’s basically a women’s selfdefense class,” Napoli says. It is $5 for the class and $5 for each child that needs to be watched while the class is taking place. It’s a great value and an easy way to learn some valuable skills. There are a few different ways to enjoy Connect 5 Family Centers. For Discovery Park, there is a $4.95 admission fee for the day, $14.95 for the week, $49.95 monthly membership fee or a $169.95 three-month pass where you can come in and stay as long as you’d like (prices are per person and martial arts classes, parties, and food purchases and tax are additional). Connect 5 Family Center is located at 222 E. Warner Rd. (east of Arizona Avenue). Call 480-699-2122 for additional information. The Gilbert location is at 1495 S. Higley Rd. (north of Ray Road). Call 480-361-8410 for more information. www. villarisinc.com/chandler/. Lynette Carrington is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at lynette@santansun.com.

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Kids: Win $15 gift card from Changing Hands Bookstore Students who either live in Chandler, Gilbert, Queen Creek or surrounding areas or who attend area schools can win $15 gift cards from Changing Hands Bookstore, thanks to a partnership between the bookseller and the SanTan Sun News. This ongoing, monthly promotion awards a $15 Changing Hands gift card to every youth whose article, story, poem, essay, editorial, book review, photo or illustration is chosen to be printed in the SanTan Sun Kids Opportunity section, while supplies last. The Kids Opportunity section is printed in the Youth Section of the ﬁrst paper of the month, each month. The best news is that even though only one to three submissions are printed per month,

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

HONORING PARTAIN

all good submissions are held in a ﬁle to be printed in future issues. So if an entry doesn’t win this month, it could win next month—or even the month after that. To enter, visit SanTanSun.com, click on Youth and then on Student Writer Permission Slip to download a submission-permission slip. Complete the form and have a parent sign it so the paper has permission to print the entry and the author or artist’s byline. Then, email the submissionpermission slip and writing or artwork to news@SanTanSun. com as a Word ﬁle, if writing, or JPEG, if art, or pasted into the email.

K.O.

DEDICATION: Chandler Uniﬁed School District has named the court at Chandler High’s Austin Gymnasium in honor of Joe Partain. Partain was a highly successful basketball coach, achieving the most wins in Chandler boys’ basketball history (202), receiving three state championships, including one at Chandler High in 1984, and sending numerous athletes to play collegiate basketball. The dedication will be at 7 p.m. Fri., Jan. 3, prior to Chandler High’s boys’ basketball game vs. Mesa. Submitted photo

Snedigar Recreation Center hosts kids’ winter break camps Parents still have time to register their children ages 5 to 12 in a winter break camp at Chandler’s Snedigar Recreation Center. Camp sessions are held Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays the weeks of Dec. 23 through 27 and Dec. 30 through Jan. 3, 2014, with facilities closed Christmas and New Year’s days.

Full- and half-day sessions are available. Full-day sessions run from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and cost $103 for Chandler residents and $140 for nonresidents; half-day sessions are from 7 a.m. to noon or 1 to 6 p.m. and cost $70 for residents and $95 for nonresidents. Full-day campers must bring their own lunch each day, and all campers are

encouraged to bring a snack. The camp is run by qualified staff who will engage kids in sports, games and arts and crafts. Snedigar Recreation Center is at 4500 S. Basha Rd. in Chandler. For more information, contact Susan Richardson at 480-782-2641 or susan.richardson@ chandleraz.gov.

Winter intersession camps are also hosted by Chandler’s Tumbleweed Recreation Center and Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park; view the Break Time recreation guide for complete details at chandleraz.gov/breaktime.

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

Apple Dumpling Café 3076 E. Chandler Heights Rd. Suite 101, Gilbert 480-279-3879 AppleDumplingCafe.com Here’s the deal: Mondays are Family Value night, where kids eat free with each adult meal and two drinks purchased. On Family Fun night, kids receive free ice cream with a meal. After school coolness is from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, where kids buy one ice cream, and get one free Chompie’s 3481 W. Frye Rd., Chandler 480-398-3008 chompies.com Here’s the deal: All day Tuesday, children 10 and younger receive one free item from the Kids Meal menu with adult meal purchase of $8 or more. Dine in only. Connect5 Family Centers Corp. 222 E. Warner Rd., Chandler 480-699-2122 1495 S. Higley Rd., Gilbert 480-361-8410 Here’s the deal: Mondays and Fridays free kids meals with an adult purchase for Munchie Monday Free Lunch and Freebie Friday Free Dinner. Dilly’s Deli 2895 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 5, Chandler 480-722-0644 dillysdeli.com Here’s the deal: On weekends, get one free kids meal for each adult meal purchased for $4.79 or more.

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WHERE KIDS EAT FREE

El Palacio Restaurant & Cantina 2950 E. Germann Rd., Chandler 480-802-5770 epchandler.com Here’s the deal: Wednesday kids 12 and younger eat free with paid adult.

Planet Sub 1920 W. Germann Rd., Chandler 480-245-6503 planetsub.com Here’s the deal: Monday kids eat free with paid adult.

Fat Willy’s 4850 S. Gilbert Rd., Chandler 480-883-1356 fatwillysaz.com/Chandler Here’s the deal: From 2 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, dine in and get a free kids meal with every adult entrée purchased. Little Leaguers menu only, 12 and younger.

Sidelines Grill 2980 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler 480-792-6965 SidelinesAZ.com Here’s the deal: Kids eat free from kids menu after 4 p.m. Thursdays with adult entree. Dine-in only. Cannot be combined with any other offers or specials.

Frio Mio Frozen Yogurt 4991 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler 480-609-0007 Here’s the deal: Every day, kids wearing a sports or scouts uniform receive 50% off frozen yogurt and 50 cent all-beef hot dogs.

The Cove Grill 5070 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 400, Chandler 480-802-9070 thecovegrill.com Here’s the deal: Tuesday kids younger than 12 receive one free meal per adult entrée purchased.

Nabers Music Bar and Eats 825 N. 54th St., Chandler 480-705-0288 Nabersaz.com Here’s the deal: Kids eat free every Monday and Tuesday, with the purchase of an adult meal and two beverages. Pittsburgh Willy’s 1509 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler 480-857-2860 pittsburghwillys.com Here’s the deal: Every day except Sunday breakfast, kids younger than 10 eat free with each paying adult. Additional kids eat for 50% off; Wee Willy menu only.

Whiskey Rose Bar and Grill 135 W. Ocotillo Rd. Chandler 480-895-ROSE (7673) whiskeyrosesaloon.com Here’s the deal: Kids eat free every day with the purchase of an adult entree and kids drink. Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill 7221 W. Ray Rd., Chandler 480-893-7550 http://ztejas.com Here’s the deal: Kids eat free on Sunday nights starting at 3 p.m. off of the Z’Tejas KidZ menu.

WHERE KIDS EAT FREE

The Sushi Room 2475 W. Queen Creek Rd., Chandler 480-821-9000 sushiroomaz.com Here’s the deal: Sunday Funday means kids 12 and younger eat free, two kids per paying adult. Uncle Bear’s Grill & Bar 1980 W. Germann Rd., Chandler 480-722-1555 unclebearsgrillandbar.com Here’s the deal: Wednesday kids eat free with each full price entrée purchased.

The SanTan Sun News now has a regular “Where kids eat free” section. Restaurant owners, please email us details such as days of the week kids can eat free at your establishment, and what conditions apply, such as purchase of an adult meal, certain hours, etc., Include your restaurant name, address, phone and website and a contact name for veriﬁcation. Readers, if you know of a location that has a kids-eat-free program, email us with the restaurant name, a phone and / or email for conﬁrmation and details. Email information to KidsEatFree@ santansun.com.

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December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

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December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

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Witness an Italian tradition under the big top Dec. 25 to Jan. 5 BY MEGHAN MCCOY

A 170-year-old family circus will head to Chandler to do what it loves most— make people smile and forget about their worries. “It all started in 1842 in Italy, seven generations ago,” Sandra Zoppé says of her husband Alberto Zoppé’s Italian Family Circus. The circus’ beginnings are rooted in a romance between a French street clown and a Hungarian ballerina. “It all started when a French street clown wandered into a plaza in Budapest, Hungary, and witnessed a beautiful Hungarian ballerina performing ballet on horseback and he was in awe of her,” Sandra says. “He instantly fell in love.” Unfortunately for the clown, the ballerina’s father rejected him. However, with his persistence, he won the ballerina’s heart. They wed and moved to Italy. The duo performed with the circus for the ﬁrst time in front of St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Venice. “They set up a ring and performed there,” Sandra explains. “They founded the ﬁrst circus in Italy back then. That was the beginning.” The circus continued for many years in Italy, even through the wars. Sandra says her husband’s parents had 16 children, all involved in the circus. The area was bombed during the war and, between that and disease, killed many of the kids. Alberto eventually became one of the most sought-after equestrian artists in Italy.

DOG ACT: Those who attend the Zoppé Italian Family Circus at Chandler Center for the Arts will witness an amazing dog act. Submitted photo

“He was known as the only person in the world that ever performed a layout,” Sandra says. Alberto did a somersault off of one galloping horse onto another. In 1949, Alberto was asked to be in the movie “The Greatest Show on Earth,” as a circus artist. He signed an agreement with Johnny North with Ringling Brothers Circus saying if it supplied an elephant for his circus in Italy, he would take part in the movie. The war took a toll on the lives of elephants. “Alberto agreed to come to America and then he was going to return to his show in Italy because it was small and he

was the star of the show,” Sandra says. After the movie was ﬁlmed, Alberto decided to remain in America and work for Ringling Brothers Circus. “He agreed to stay here and be their star,” Sandra says. Eventually Alberto left the Ringling Brothers Circus and carried on his family’s circus. Sandra and Alberto met at a variety show, fell in love and married in 1963. They have three children, Carla, Giovanni and Tosca, all of whom are part of the Zoppé circus. Carla and her husband have a dog act. Tosca took after her father and became

an equestrian artist. Giovanni is an aerial clown who performs comedy acts. “They are all amazing artists,” Sandra says. About 32 members of the Zoppé circus travel about 10 months per year. This year, they are returning to Chandler. “We will open the day after Christmas in Chandler,” Sandra says. Sandra promises those who attend a show will be amazed. “We are there to give them our hearts and as we perform we share a meeting of hearts and minds because they give theirs back to us,” she says. “The circus is sweet. It’s not harsh or rude.” The Zoppé Italian Family Circus is in town from Thu., Dec. 26, to Sun., Jan. 5, at the Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave. Tickets range from $15 to $38 for its 500-seat tent. A 70-minute Kids’ show will be held at 11 a.m. Fri., Dec. 27, as well as a New Year’s Eve Under the Big Top at 7:30 p.m. Tue., Dec. 31. “We love what we do because we have one of the greatest jobs on this Earth,” she says. “That’s to make people happy and make it possible for them to forget all of their problems. They are totally enjoying themselves and their family. There is no greater gift you can give.” Meghan McCoy is the Neighbors and Business section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@ santansun.com.

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21321 E. Ocotillo Road, Suite 124 Queen Creek, AZ 85142 (Rittenhouse and Ocotillo)

Call 480-821-1400, or visit online: www.healingheartspeds.com

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480-895-2100

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• FREE electronic toothbrush • FREE wi-fi & game center • No down payment plans • State-of-the-art facility

aspenortho.com • 3980 E. Riggs Rd., Suite 1 • Chandler

WITH YOUR PURCHASE OF A $20 GIFT CARD YOU’LL RECEIVE A

FREE $5 GIFT CARD! (During the month of December)

480-812-8433

For menu visit: www.Floridinos.net 590 N. Alma School Rd. • In the Granada Plaza

DINE-IN OR CARRY-OUT Hours: Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

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www.SanTanSun.com

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

t Larges re to S y d n Ca ! a n o z i r in A

Remember All These Christmas Favorites? From our family to yours, making Christmas traditions “Sweet” Stacked to the ceiling with over 100,000 pounds of all those hard to find nostalgic candies and the new greats of today! Dozens of varieties of candy canes, and holiday favorites like filled raspberries, cut rock, chocolate filled mint straws, walnut chips, holiday gems, peach blossoms, ribbon candy and more!

* 2 FREE CANDY BARS *Up to 99¢ each Offer only valid with coupon. Limit one coupon per customer per visit. May be used together on same visit.

Expires 12-24-2013

* 10% OFF ENTIRE*UpINVENTORY to $10 OFF FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

Offer only valid with coupon. Limit one coupon per customer per visit. May be used together on same visit.

Expires 12-24-2013

(NW Corner of Chandler Blvd & Alma School Rd)

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

CHANDLER UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Dec. 23 - Jan. 6 No school

CTA-Freedom Falcons Tax credits – Arizona taxpayers can donate to CTA-Freedom and earn a 100% tax refund on their state taxes— up to $400 filing jointly, $200 filing singly. The money goes toward fieldtrips and extracurricular activities. For more information, visit ctafreedom.com and click on the Tax Credit link in the announcements. —Erin Morgan-Canter

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making model pizzas cut into different fractions and swapping pieces to complete one whole pizza. They concluded the day by fractionally topping, baking and eating their delicious pizzas.

CTA-Independence Hawks Calendar Jan. 8: Report cards go home Jan. 13: Open enrollment begins Jan. 13-24: Student Council Food Drive Jan. 14-15: Variety Show Auditions —Wendi Olson

CHANDLER CHAMP: Haley student Jacob McCullough, pictured with Carson Goodrich and P.E. teacher Barb Burton, participated along with several other students in the Elks Free Throw Shooting Contest held recently at the Chandler Boys & Girls Club. Jacob qualiﬁed for the District Championship to be held Sat., Jan. 4, in Kearny. Submitted photo —Stephanie Vatistas

32,000 Square Foot, Air-Conditioned Facility with an Indoor Heated Pool

We offer classes ages 6 months and up:

• Gymnastics • Tumbling • Trampoline • Martial Arts • Dance • Cheer • Ballet, Hip Hop, and Musical Theater • Adult Bootcamp • Swimming

Hancock Heat Spelling star – Hancock’s 2013-14 Spelling Bee winner is Crystal Van from Ms. Mazza’s ﬁfth-grade class; runnerup is Ever Ruiz from Mrs. Barutha/ Doerneman’s ﬁfth-grade class. Both will represent Hancock in the District Spelling Bee in January. Congrats to all the participants, including Noah Croft, Wil Thatcher, Hayden Cristofano, Julie Dailey, Haley Weddell and Kaitlyn Murphy, and alternates Laura McCann, Liam Nance, Casey Marks, Tiah Watson, Chelsea Rho, Yahaira Gallardo, Jaydin Eaves and Cameron Snyder. —Andrea Dickson

Hull Heroes

Haley Tigers Sock Hop success – Haley families brought new, unwrapped toys for admission to the recent annual Haley Elementary Sock Hop; all toys were donated to the Chandler Care Center, personally delivered by the Chandler Police Department. In addition, all proceeds from the sale of refreshments, food and photo booth photos at the Sock Hop went directly to Yarnell to help with relief efforts. Class notes – Fourth graders studied equivalent fractions and spent a day learning about the history of pizza,

www.SanTanSun.com

Aspire Offers Winter Camp throughout the Holiday Break! Check out our website for more information and registration

Great after school activities for kids of all ages! Independent gymnastics classes for 2 year olds offered!

$30 value. New enrollment only. Not valid with any other offer. Please enter promo code SANTANSUN at time of registration. Expires 12-31-2013

480-820-3774

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

Arctic Carnival – The Arctic Carnival will be Jan. 25. Many volunteers will be needed for this exciting event; check out the Hull Elementary School website PTO tab or Facebook/ HullElementary for volunteer sign-ups coming soon, or email hullptopres@ gmail.com for more information. Art smart – Hull students have the opportunity to submit their artwork to be displayed during the winter carnival in January. Complete rules and information are going home with students. News ﬂash – “Like” Hull Elementary on Facebook for up-to-date PTO information and check out the PTO blog at hullelementary.blogspot.com. —Kristen Boyd

Jacobson Jets

MAKING MEMORIES: Jacobson ﬁfth graders enjoyed three great days at Science Camp recently. Submitted photos

Tarwater Toros Holiday School Cents – Through Tue., Dec. 31, any Visa gift cards purchased at Guest Services at Chandler Fashion Center will earn 2,000 bonus points. Tarwater families can also earn an additional 1,000 points when they adopt an angel from the mall’s Salvation Army Angel Tree, located in the Sears Court. Receipts from donations can be brought to Guest Services. —Robyn Kelly

Basha High Bears Holiday helping – Basha High’s National Honor Society recently hosted a holiday extravaganza in conjunction with Smiles of Christmas to provide 160 ﬁrst- and second-grade students from San Marcos Elementary with Christmas memories. The mission of Smiles of Christmas is to

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www.SanTanSun.com positively impact the younger generation by providing underprivileged elementary students with the opportunity to experience an ideal Christmas celebration in unison with the community of involved high school students. Each elementary student spent the entire day one on one with a Basha High mentor, similar to a big brother or sister. Activities included a petting zoo, bounce houses, face painting, a cupcake walk and a chance to sit on Santa’s knee; the visiting children were also given their very own stocking ﬁlled with donated items from their BHS mentor. Basha High Vice Principal Michelle Good worked tirelessly with the NHS and volunteers from Basha’s Student Government, FFA, Early Childhood Education, the Girls Softball team and the American Sign Language Club. Thanks to As You Wish Pottery for providing a canvas, paint, supplies and supervision so that the children had a special keepsake to take home, and Barro’s Pizza for generously providing lunch for high school volunteers. —Carol Skocypec

CTA-Goodman Gators Festival fun – Fifth graders enjoyed the American Heritage Festival again this year. Highlights of their trip were the “live” George Washington and battle reenactments. Thanks to CTA-Goodman families and friends for contributing tax credit donations to make this trip possible. Class notes – Second grade Gators

recently attended a performance of “The Snow Queen” at the Herberger Theater. Standards for listening and speaking were presented, and students also accessed learning standards in plot, conflict and character relationships. Tax credit donations supported the trip. Mothers’ day – Muffins with Mom was a huge success. Patient moms, aunts and nanas waited to enjoy CUSD breakfast treats together with students. Music notes – Both the band and orchestra held their winter concerts; audiences were amazed at the growth in just 10 short weeks. Traditional Christmas songs and other tunes were enjoyed by all. Orchestra Director Caroline Broomfield celebrated a birthday with her students and Band Director Bob Crump entertained the audience with his humor. Holiday helping – The Goodman GoGetters, students ages 9 to 12 interested in community service, recently held their annual Helping Others Holiday Outreach. They had a fantastic response for their request of donations of personal care items, socks for adults, and coloring books and crayons for a homeless mission in Puerto Penasco, Mexico. —Kathie Butters

Knox Knights Happy holidays – Happy holidays to all the Knox Knights families, and congrats to everyone involved in the recent presentation of “The Nutcracker.” Kudos, also to orchestra and band members for their wonderful performances.

December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

Kudos – Congrats to the 2013 winners of Chandler Unified School District’s Apple Achievement Awards: staff member Eileen Carey, volunteer Emi Gibbons and student Tamuyen Truong. Shop and earn – Shop for the holidays at Amazon.com and earn money for Knox. Visit knoxpto.com, click on the Amazon link, shop and earn referral fees for Knox. Tax credit – Support extracurricular activities for Knox Knights by making a state tax credit donation and encouraging fellow Arizonans to do the same. A tax credit is a full refund, not just a deduction. Married persons filing jointly can contribute a maximum of $400 per calendar year, single filers a maximum of $200 per calendar year. Calendar Jan. 7: School resumes Feb. 4: PTO meeting, 3:45 p.m. Feb. 22: Celebration of Science & Engineering Night & Science Fair —Jacqueline Bartrim

Friendly Pines Camp hosts summer camp information night It may be winter, but now’s the time to start thinking about different summer camp options for the kids. Friendly Pines sleepaway camp in Prescott will offer a very helpful and fun-ﬁlled information night at Tesseract School’s Paradise Valley campus at 7 p.m. Mon., Jan. 27. Parents and children are invited to attend and learn about this renowned, 73-year-old Arizona summer camp tradition. All your questions about the sleepaway camp experience will be answered. Friendly Pines Camp is available for children ages 6 through 13 and offers a wide range of traditional camp activities: sports, horseback riding, waterskiing, rock climbing, performing arts, ﬁne arts, pets, hiking, canoe and kayaking, and much more. There are one-week, two-week, four-week, and six-week camp sessions available. There is a discount for multiple sessions and also a sibling discount. Admission to the information night is free. Refreshments will be served. Great prizes will also be given away. Families can even enter to win a free week of camp! Tesseract School is located at 4800 E. Doubletree Ranch Rd., Paradise Valley. For more information, call 1-888-281-CAMP or visit www.friendlypines.com.

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December 21, 2013 - January 3, 2014

Winter break camp fun for kids Children ages 5 to 12 can have fun while their parents get a break at a Winter Break Camp Mon., Dec. 30, through Fri., Jan. 3, at SWIMkids USA of Mesa. Camp hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the entire program. Cost is $150 per child; extended hours are available at additional cost. Single-day signups are optional. Participants can enjoy activities including swimming in heated pools, gymnastics, dance, challenges and games,

www.SanTanSun.com

CLASS ACT

projects, daily snacks and arts and crafts. “We really wanted to lend parents a hand with the hectic holiday season,” says SWIMkids USA’s General Manager Melissa Sutton. “We’re going to keep kids happy while their moms and dads take care of business.” SWIMkids USA is at 2725 W. Guadalupe Rd., Mesa. To reserve a spot or learn more, visit swimkidsusa.us or call 480-820-9109.

Christmas lights for community to enjoy The Brown family, 632 W. Aster Ct., Chandler, have put up more than 100,000 lights, 30 inflatables, 100 lighted figurines, six large candy canes, two large candy cane arches, a large Christmas wreath, seven Christmas trees, six large snowflakes, three shooting stars, a decorated boat on the front lake, a movie

playing on a large-screen TV and ﬂashing lights to music to celebrate the holidays. Santa Claus and his helpers visit the Browns every Saturday night. Individuals can view the lights 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Wed., Jan. 1.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: Visit the Brown family, 632 W. Aster Ct., Chandler, and view their Christmas light display until Jan. 1. Submitted photo.

BE PREPARED: Eagle Scout Nikolas Eberlein of Troop 312 developed the idea of classroom lockdown kits for school classrooms to use in an emergency. Each kit contains a 5-gallon plastic bucket, a snap-on toilet seat lid, a roll of toilet paper, three plastic kitchen garbage bags, a ﬁrst-aid kit, an emergency blanket, antibacterial gel, a roll of duct tape, survival food bars and puriﬁed emergency water. The kits were given to BASIS Chandler as part of his Eagle Scout project. Submitted photo

Registration is open for winter classes! The winter Break Time magazine outlining all-ages recreation classes, youth camps and special events for December, January and February is available at libraries and city offices as well as aquatic and recreation centers and online at www.chandleraz.gov/breaktime. For more information, call 480-782-2727.

Chandler Recreation Offers A Variety of Winter Activities!

Lap Swim at Hamilton and Mesquite Groves Aquatic Centers Closed December 19 – January 5 When the pools reopen on January 6 you can purchase your annual lap swim pass at a discounted rate until January 9! The pass will be available for $170 (that’s a 15% savings!) and the pass is valid at both Hamilton and Mesquite Groves Aquatic Centers. Guests must be a Chandler resident to purchase.

Community Nights in the Courtyard at the Community Center

Free Admission!

Wednesday, January 8

Meet the Creature at the Environmental Education Center $6 Resident / $9 Non-resident

Join us for some free family fun with Bobo the Magic Clown! The Community Center will be hosting Community Nights in the Courtyard on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month! Contact Courtney Allen at 480-782-2730 for more information!

Friday, December 27 11 -11:45 a.m.

Mix Masters at the Community Center

In this interactive program, children will get up close and personal with live animals while receiving a fun lesson in wildlife rescue and conservation. Each program features different fascinating animals from around the world. *Fee is per person for everyone attending class. Please register each participant over the age of 2, including adults. Contact Stephanie Hawkins at 480-782-2894 for more information.

$22 Resident / $28 Non-resident with $80 Instructor Fee Wednesday’s January 8 – February 19 If you have always wanted to learn about mixing music, spinning records, and the art of being a DJ, join us for a four session workshop that will take students through the history of DJ’s and the origin of Hip-hop, the beginning of DJ’ing with vinyl records, then working on some tables and learning to mix music! Contact Manny Padia at 480-782-2764 for more information.

Stay Connected Follow us on Instagram and Twitter at @ChandlerRec, and on Facebook and YouTube at Chandler Recreation for the latest news. Check out the November / December episode of “Come Out & Play, Chandler!” on YouTube. This episode features volunteer opportunities in the Community Services Department. You can sign up for the Chandler Recreation monthly newsletter at www.chandleraz.gov/listserv.html. For more information, call 480-782-2727.