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Community
Nov. 17 – 30, 2012
Veterans to ‘park it’
Veterans Oasis Park Submitted photo
Military veterans and their families have the opportunity to bond in a pleasant local setting during Veterans Volunteer Day, from 9 a.m. to noon Sat., Nov. 17 at Veterans Oasis Park, a green facility named to honor their service and sacrifice. The event is sponsored by the Chandler Environmental Education Center (EEC). The public is invited to enjoy the day while giving back to the community through environmentally based service projects. Volunteer tasks may include park clean-up activities, gardening, recycling, or basic landscape maintenance. All ages are welcome; however, those younger than 14 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Veterans, their family and friends, and other volunteers are asked to check in first at the EEC, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd. To RSVP, call 480-782-2894. Veterans Oasis Park is open 6 a.m.-10:30 p.m. daily. For more information about the Environmental Education Center or Veterans Oasis Park, call 480-782-2890, email to EEC@chandleraz.gov, or visit chandleraz.gov/veterans-oasis.
www.SanTanSun.com
Chandler’s ‘GO’ is good Safe Place for youths Chandler’s fiscal outlook is bright, says Fitch Ratings, which once again awarded the general obligation (GO) and excise tax revenue obligations at AAA with a “stable” outlook. “Fitch views positively the historic conservatism of the city’s planning,” according to the rating agency’s report. It also notes the city’s debt levels are moderate and “conservative fiscal management and strong performance have generated substantial reserves.” Bond ratings on outstanding debt are reviewed by credit rating agencies every one or two years, taking into account changes in the city and economy. Bonds that are rated Aaa or AAA, like Chandler, are considered to be of the highest quality with the smallest degree of investment risk. Fitch identified four factors that reaffirmed the city’s rating. First, the city has manageable debt levels with a capital plan that is heavily focused on infrastructure maintenance, supported by general fund reserves. Second, it employs a well-paid, highly skilled workforce concentrated in high tech manufacturing that contributes to low unemployment levels. Third, two Intel expansion projects – one $5.2 billion, and one $300 million – are expected to add 1,450 high-paying jobs. And fourth, the city operates a balanced fiscal 2013 operating budget that is based on conservative assumptions, and a near term focus on maintaining existing municipal facilities. The city has about $439 million of general obligation bonds and $47 million of excise tax revenue obligations outstanding. “Our strong ratings are a reflection of Chandler’s sound fiscal policies and the long-term planning that has been done to build a diverse workforce within the community,” says Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. “The partnerships that have been developed between the City and our business community have led to new investments that will help ensure our continued economic growth for years to come.” For more information on City of Chandler bonds, call the management services department at 480-782-2250.
Area youths from troubled homes have a new place to turn for help. Safe Place provides a haven and connections for children who have nowhere else to go. Maricopa Community Colleges, which includes Chandler-Gilbert Community College, and the local Tumbleweed Center for Youth Development are co-partners of the program. “Our 10 main campuses and the district office (are) Safe Places,” says Maricopa Community Colleges Chancellor Rufus Glasper. “These locations will be added to a county list of sites where youth in crisis can come to find connections to help. Two of our critical functions are community and stewardship. This effort fits our mission perfectly.” Safe Place signs are posted at key entry points on campus, explains Glasper. “We are preparing our public safety teams and other employees to spot and help someone on our campuses who may be in crisis.” Established in 1983, National Safe Place has more than 17,000 sites in 38 states and 1,500 communities. Tumbleweed has been Maricopa County’s Licensed Safe Place organization since 2005. It helped more than 110 youths in the past year. For more information, visit nationalsafeplace.org or tumbleweed.org.
coming soon!
Pediatric Dentistry for Kids, Teens & Special Needs
Announcing Our New Teen Dental Center!
Come join us to celebrate
our first birthday! All weekend... Friday, Nov. 16 - Sunday, Nov. 18
50% Off Food*
This modern state-of-the-art addition is dedicated to teenagers. No more excuses for teens not going to the dentist—We guarantee your teens will love it!
DJ Friday and Saturday Live music on Sunday
*Not valid with any other offers, other restrictions may apply.
Dr. Rassa Abdoll, D.M.D., Dr. Romona Davis D.D.S., Dr. Sheila Rao D.M.D
480-821-9000
www.SushiRoomAZ.com
(480) 782-KIDS (5437)
Members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Most insurances accepted including AHCCCS. Financing available. Credit cards accepted. Se Habla Español.
www.KidsDentalCenter.com
2900 W. Ray Rd., #2, Chandler, AZ 85224 The NE Corner of Ray & 101 (Price)
2475 W. Queen Creek Rd.
480-855-2848
www.livingroomwinebar.com