EPIC KIDS Reporters Program
Introducing the Epic Kids Reporters Program, where aspiring young journalists can write for Epic Kids.
Throughout the school year, Epic Kids Reporters cover issues and topics that ma er most to them and their peers, including breaking news, current events, sports, entertainment, school clubs, and kid pro les. Their stories will appear in both print and digital edi ons of Epic Kids.
The resul ng news clips are invaluable in growing and developing a portfolio of published work that can help students get scholarships and future educa onal opportuni es.
Check out some of the work from our
To be considered for this FREE program, students should be between the ages of 8-14 and have a parent’s approval. Please email hello@epickidsaz.com to get started.
Get In Touch:
2550 W. Union Hills Drive, Ste. 350-9433 Phoenix, AZ 85027
888-313-7916
Submissions and suggestions:
Press Releases:
Submit press releases via email to hello@epickidsaz.com.
Events Calendar:
Submit press releases or event listings including all details to hello@epickidsaz. com. The deadline for the October issue is October 1.
Advertising:
Contact the sales department by phone at 888-313-7916 or by email at advertising@egpublishing.com.
Where to Find Us:
Epic Kids is distributed each month directly into the backpacks of children in K-8 charter and private schools. You can also find us placed in racks where kids and their families are out and about. To see a full list of locations, visit our website.
Stay Connected: facebook.com/EpicKidsAZ @epickidsaz
Staff:
Natasha & Brian Beal / Publishers
Sondra Barr / Editor
Shannon Carrillo / Production & Design
Erica Odello / Ad Design
Notes:
Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings and omissions. If, however, an error comes to your attention, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us.
Headliners
Secrets, Clues, and an EVIL Robot
Kid reporter Nicholas takes on a puzzling adventure at The Nemesis Club.
Photos courtesy of Nicholas Bubeck
From hidden clues to flashing lights, The Nemesis Club is an awesome escape room. I recently experienced the Evil Robots game there, and I loved it.
HERE ARE 10 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING (AND WHY TO ADD IT TO YOUR BUCKET LIST).
1. You enter through Soda Jerk, a delicious milkshake place located on High Street in Phoenix. To gain access to the escape room, you must say a password, granting you entry to The Nemesis Club.
The game is packed with technology, with adaptive gameplay, playful animatronics, and story-driven puzzles that keep everyone on their toes.
6. It’s most exciting because you’re working against the clock. However, your guide “watches” you from an undisclosed location in case you need help. If you run into a bind, you can ask aloud for hints.
2. While we experienced Evil Robots, there are three different themes, each with hidden entrances. In the Evil Robots scenario, we had a BIG problem. A menacing robot at the Experiment Virtual Intelligence Laboratory (EVIL) was powering himself on. Our mission? Break into the retro-futuristic lab and shut the robot down before he finished charging and started wreaking havoc. We had just one hour to save the day!
3. When it starts, a tour guide leads you into the room, but then something goes wrong. That’s when the tour guide abandons you, leaving your group alone to solve the mystery within 60 minutes. It felt like we were part of a vintage sci-fi movie, racing against time.
4. It’s like being part of a puzzle, and you're the pieces solving the task. Inside the room, you must figure out how to solve multiple clues, all while the robot slowly boots up, threatening with every passing second.
5. Your team must strategize solving the interactive clues like putting on goggles to see directions, finding keys to open boxes, sneaking past lasers, and using claws to grab things you cannot reach.
7. Every person is constantly looking for clues to solve. I highly recommend this for a birthday party to enjoy with buddies. The carefully crafted environment, complete with a scored soundtrack, makes it a thrilling adventure.
8. At 11 years old, my friends and I successfully defeated the robot. Younger kids might need some help from adults, but it’s an experience you don’t want to miss.
9. After you’re finished, celebrate your success over milkshakes! You’ll feel very accomplished. Plus, it’s the perfect way to wind down after all the action.
10. Finally, once you try one, you’ll want to check the other rooms off your bucket list. The immersive experience really puts you at the center of the story, making it a must-see Phoenix attraction.
The Nemesis Club is located at 5350 E. High St., #109, in Phoenix. For more information, visit thenemesisclub.com.
Nicholas Bubeck is an Epic Kids monthly columnist and CEO of creationsbynicholas. com. You can follow his adventures on Instagram, @creationsbynicholas and @mamaandmyboys.
Nicholas took on the EVIL Robot at The Nemesis Club and saved the day!
headliners
Teenager Starts Writing Contest to Inspire Kids and Give Back
By Naya Seth
Photo courtesy of Opportunity Community Justice Kids
Asenior at Pinnacle High School, 17-year-old Jadyn wanted to reach the community in a way that may have been overlooked in the past. Writing has always been a passion of hers and she’s had some of her work published, so she decided to start a writing contest as a way for kids to share their stories and be creative. The contest is called Between the Spaces because Jadyn thought of stories as a way to connect people, saying that it’s not about the words you say, but about the message you are sending.
When she started this writing contest, Jadyn felt it would be a great way to incorporate two of her passions: writing and giving back. She decided to partner with Opportunity Community Justice (OCJ) Kids, an organization created to give foster and at-risk kids the tools and relationships they need to succeed in life. Jadyn began working with them when she joined her school’s Key Club around three years ago, and she has loved it, saying, “It’s an amazing feeling to go back and see the kids recognize you.” One of her favorite memories there was getting to know three sisters throughout the year. She would talk to them and ask how their day was, enjoying the chance to connect. Jadyn wants to spread that feeling to others, so the winners of the writing contest will have the opportunity to read their stories to kids from the OCJ Kids organization.
Starting a writing competition while being a senior in high school with extracurriculars is
Jadyn created the Between the Spaces writing contest for kids.
a lot to juggle, but Jadyn’s love for writing and her connection with the foster kids keep her motivated. She plans to continue the writing contest in the future, even while she’s in college, hoping to partner with more philanthropic organizations.
Jadyn has been spreading the word through her school and community. She also has Instagram @between.the.spaces, where the link to enter your work is located, or visit https://tinyurl. com/mup9k6dr. Through her networking, she has been able to find a panel of judges, including two former Olympians. The contest is open to kids ages 12 to 17 with a deadline of Sept. 30, and she’s looking for inspirational or uplifting writing with a theme that kids can learn from.
Some of Jadyn’s other interests are playing the guitar and volunteering. She has one younger brother, and two dogs named Stormy and Thor.
Naya Seth, 14 years old, loves to read and write. She is a member of the National Charity League and enjoys participating in various philanthropy activities.
THE B.I.G. EVENT
Photo courtesy of Girl ScoutsArizona Cactus-Pine Council
Get ready, Phoenix! The biggest Girl Scout event of the year is making a grand return this fall, and it’s going to be epic! Mark your calendars for Sat., Nov. 16, because The Believe in Girls (B.I.G.) Event is back and bigger than ever at ASU Preparatory Academy in downtown Phoenix.
Whether you’re a current Girl Scout or just curious about what Girl Scouting is all about, this event is for you. It’s the ultimate Girl Scout carnival where girls and families can explore what makes being a Girl Scout so awesome. Expect hands-on activities, cool booths, and tons of fun all centered around the four pillars of Girl Scouting: STEM, Outdoors, Life Skills, and Entrepreneurship. Imagine trying out science experiments, tackling outdoor challenges, learning life hacks, and discovering how to be your own boss—all in one place!
The B.I.G. Event is also packed with family entertainment that will keep everyone smiling. From live performances and a DJ spinning the latest hits to a towering climbing wall for the brave and bounce houses for non-stop jumping, there’s something for everyone. Hungry? No worries! Food truck vendors will be serving up delicious snacks to keep you fueled for all the fun.
For parents like Sarah Thompson, who attended last year’s event with her daughters, Emily and Ava, The B.I.G. Event is a must-do. “It’s not just about the fun, although there’s plenty of that! It’s about seeing my girls light up when they try something new or solve
a challenge together,” Thompson says. “Emily loved the STEM activities, and Ava couldn’t get enough of the climbing wall. We’re definitely going again this year!”
The event is set to draw more than 1,500 guests, so it’s going to be one big, joyful crowd of friends, families, and future Girl Scouts. And here’s the best part: You don’t need to be a registered Girl Scout to join the fun! That’s right—this event is open to everyone in the community. So, bring your friends, bring your family, and get ready to see what Girl Scouting is all about.
“It’s such a great way to spend the day with my kids and get a taste of everything Girl Scouts has to offer,” adds Mike Johnson, who attended with his daughter Sophia. “She made new friends, learned a ton, and had an absolute blast.”
The B.I.G. Event is $10 per person and runs from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., so come ready for an afternoon of adventure, discovery, and tons of excitement. Don’t miss out on this chance to experience the biggest Girl Scout event of the year! ASU Preparatory Academy is located at 735 E. Fillmore St., in Phoenix.
For more information, visit girlscoutsaz.org/bigevent.
Career Day
LEADING WITH PURPOSE
Torrie Taj empowers Arizona’s vulnerable youth with Child Crisis Arizona.
Torrie A. Taj
Profession: Nonprofit leadership
Age: 54
What do you do for a living?
I am the chief executive officer of an organization called Child Crisis Arizona, which provides emergency shelter and residential housing for youth from birth to 21, as well as foster care and adoption services, early education, communitywide parenting classes, workshops, support groups, and more. This year we are moving into the new Center for Child & Family Wellness, a sustainable campus that will bring the organization’s foster care, adoption, counseling, and family education into one space, and enable us to invite six fellow nonprofits onsite to collaborate, providing enhanced vital support services to children/families. We also work with First Things First to provide resources for every baby born in Arizona via free Parent Kits at hospitals and birthing centers and run Whispering Hope Ranch, a respected provider of therapeutic and recreational programs for youth.
What type of training do you need to do your job?
I had an advisor that said something that changed my life in college. He told me that jobs and money would come and go, so the most important decision is to choose a profession I can be proud of and that will give my life meaning and purpose. So, more than anything, to work in a nonprofit, you need it to be your purpose. Beyond that, to work in nonprofit leadership, you need management experience, usually a higher degree or certifications within the field, and fundraising experience.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
I am really passionate about ensuring we grow so we can continue to help more kids and families. Over the past seven years, we’ve doubled the individuals we can help. Once our new campus opens, the sky is the limit for what we can do. We project that with the new space, we will be able to serve 3,000 additional individuals in the first year of operation! What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I started wanting to be a flight attendant but by fifth grade it evolved into a fighter pilot.
What advice would you give to a kid who wants to have a similar career?
Be bold. Be brave. Be fearless. Also, it is never too early to start exploring the nonprofit world. You can do it right now by working with your parents, caregivers, or school through programs like Key Club to find organizations where you can volunteer. Volunteering is a great way to see firsthand if nonprofit work is for you. One fun fact NOT about your job? I love gardening!
Torrie at the groundbreaking for a new campus.
Early Head Start art time.
Torrie works with Valley youth.
Indigo Martinez Cover
MEET Indigo Martinez
A Budding Artist and Nature Enthusiast at Larry C. Kennedy School
Indigo Martinez has a passion for nature, music, and art.
Photos courtesy of Creighton School District
This fall, Larry C. Kennedy School opened its doors to students with a brand new, state-of-the-art facility designed to inspire learning through nature and sustainability. Among the students enjoying the new spaces is 10-year-old Indigo Martinez, a fourth grader with big dreams and a love for the outdoors.
Indigo's eyes light up as she talks about her aspirations. "I want to be an Olympic swimmer and an artist," she shares. Indigo has spent her summer practicing her strokes at her neighborhood pool, inspired by the Olympic swimmers she watched on TV. "The swimming competitions really caught my eye," she says with excitement. But swimming isn’t her only passion. Indigo is also an aspiring artist with a unique creative vision. "I’m creating my own style of anime," she says proudly. Sketching is her favorite medium, and she’s already developing a story called “Annie's Wish,” about a special horse, a magical feather, and an adventure under the stars. "The story isn’t finished yet," she adds, with a hint of mystery in her voice.
Indigo’s love for creativity extends beyond the classroom, especially into the garden. At Larry C. Kennedy School, the new garden beds are a favorite spot for her. "I want to learn about vegetables
Brand new, state-of-the-art classrooms at Larry C. Kennedy School.
and when things grow best," she explains, adding that bell peppers are her favorite vegetable. Indigo is eager to start journaling her observations as she learns to grow her own peppers. "I’m a nature girl," she says, smiling. Her enthusiasm for sustainability is contagious as she describes what she’s learning about trees, nature, and protecting the earth. "I love being out in nature and exploring and observing," she says, reflecting the school’s emphasis on outdoor learning.
The new school grounds offer a perfect setting for Indigo’s interests. The outdoor basketball court covered by solar panels, the communication stairs, and the soonto-be-finished treehouse playground are all spaces she looks forward to enjoying. "It’s an amazing school with amazing outdoor learning," she says. "You get to have fun learning, and the school is big with nature all around. I can’t wait until the trees grow tall."
Indigo spends her free time drawing, playing with her dog Buddy, and knitting. She also loves playing the guitar, blending her artistic talents with her love for music. As she looks to the future, Indigo is excited about all the opportunities Larry C. Kennedy School will provide. With such a nurturing environment, there’s no doubt Indigo will continue to flourish, both in her artistic endeavors and her passion for nature.
With big dreams and a love for education, Indigo enjoys spreading the word
Indigo being interviewed by ABC 15 Arizona about Larry C. Kennedy School.
about her school.
Larry C. Kennedy School offers ample open spaces.
BOOK CLUB Brain Play
ROBOT READ-ALIKES
By Jennifer Gallagher of Maricopa County Library District
“The Wild Robot,” based on the book by Peter Brown, will soon be hitting the big screen! This heartwarming book tells the story of a robot named Roz who washed ashore on an uninhabited island. If you loved reading about Roz’s adventure to survive in the wild, you will love these other adventure-themed books!
“A WOLF CALLED WANDER” BY
ROSANNE PARRY,
ILLUSTRATIONS BY MÓNICA ARMIÑO
Another lovely book about wilderness survival is “A Wolf Called Wander,” the story of Swift, a wild wolf cub separated from his family who undertakes a harrowing journey through the wilderness to find the place where he belongs.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: The beautifully written and thoughtfully illustrated novel pulls you into nature and is a great read-aloud.
“THE LAST HUMAN” BY LEE BACON
Another sci-fi robot novel, “The Last Human,” explores a world when humans are believed to be extinct. When 12-year-old robot XR_935 discovers a young human girl, its world is turned upside down.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: This well-written, smart, and beautiful story is also a great read-aloud chapter book. It also beautifully discusses overcoming biases and blossoming new friendships.
“A ROVER’S STORY” BY JASMINE WARGA
Resilience or Res, as he is affectionately known as by the NASA scientists who work with him, is a Mars Rover, programmed to explore Mars and send information back to scientists on Earth. The story of Res, interspersed with letters from a young girl named Sophia, starts with his creation in the NASA lab, continues to his dangerous mission on Mars, and explores questions about finding home, friendship, and courage and resilience.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Short chapters and illustrations make this an accessible story and great read-aloud!
Jennifer Gallagher is a librarian at the Perry Library in Gilbert. Jennifer loves working with kids and teens and is a fan of robot books in particular. In her nonworking time, she enjoys nature, wondering about things, reading, citizen science, animals, and spending time with her family.
KID BOOK REVIEWER - MANU
“WHERE IS WALT DISNEY WORLD?”
AUTHOR: Joan Holub
GENRE: Non-fiction
AGES: 8 – 12
SYNOPSIS: Have you been to Disney World? If so, you know it's filled with fun rides and delicious food. If not, this book is perfect for discovering fun facts and learning how Disney World was built!
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK: This book is packed with interesting facts for all readers, whether you're a Disney expert or a newbie. Part of the Who/What/Where series, it reveals cool tidbits—like how a child's admission ticket to Disney World cost just $1 in 1971!
“THE GIRL WHO NEVER MADE MISTAKES”
AUTHOR: Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein
GENRE: Fiction
AGES: 5 – 8
SYNOPSIS: Beatrice Bottomwell is a girl who never makes mistakes—until one Friday when everything changes. From matching her socks perfectly to feeding her hamster his favorite food, Beatrice's day starts like any other. But what happens when she finally makes a big mistake in front of everyone? Find out in this delightful story about embracing imperfections! WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK: I like that it teaches us that making mistakes is okay and a natural part of learning. It reminds us that mistakes can be a good thing because they help us grow!
“HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE”
AUTHOR: J.K. Rowling
GENRE: Fiction
AGES: 8 - 12
SYNOPSIS: Harry Potter, living with his strict aunt and uncle, the Dursleys, receives a life-changing letter from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Despite their attempts to keep it from him, Hagrid delivers it on Harry's birthday. At Hogwarts, Harry finds friends, magic, and a destiny greater than he imagined—if he can survive it.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK: I love how exciting and magical this book feels, even without pictures. The author’s writing makes everything come alive, like you’re right inside the story. I can't wait to read the entire series and hope you do too!
Eight-year-old Manu is the proud owner of her very own book club, where stories come alive. Curious by nature, she explores both the world of books and the wonders of nature with equal zeal. Manu's empathy and kindness shine brightly, lighting up the lives of everyone she meets. Check more of her book recommendations on Instagram at @alwaysastorybook and book club at @md.book.club.
Brain Play
EXPLORE DENSITY
& CHEMISTRY
WITH A DIY LAVA LAMP!
Transform your home into a mini science lab with this captivating lava lamp experiment!
Perfect for kids ages 4 to 12 (and beyond), this activity uses common household items to demonstrate fascinating concepts in density and chemistry. Get ready to dive into a magical world of swirling colors and bubbles!
WHAT YOU NEED
• A clean plastic bottle or glass jar
• Vegetable oil
• Baking soda
• Food coloring
• Vinegar
• A flashlight
CREATING THE MAGIC
1. Prepare Your Bottle: Start by adding a couple of inches of baking soda to the bottom of your bottle or jar. This is a fantastic moment to get handson, scooping and pouring the baking soda.
2. Add the Oil: Fill the rest of the bottle or jar with vegetable oil, leaving a little space at the top. A funnel can help with this step. Watch as the oil and baking soda remain separate – a perfect visual for discussing density.
3. Mix the Colors: In a separate cup, combine about a fourth of a cup of vinegar with a few drops of food coloring. Stir well to blend.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Slowly pour your colored vinegar solution into the bottle with oil. This is where the magic happens! Observe as colorful blobs begin to rise and fall.
5. Illuminate the Fun: If you have a flashlight, dim the lights and shine it through your lava lamp. The glowing effect adds an extra layer of enchantment to the experiment.
THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE MAGIC
As the oil floats on top of the vinegar (due to being less dense), the food coloring sinks through the oil because it shares the same density as vinegar.
When the vinegar and baking soda mix, they react to form carbon dioxide gas. This gas rises, carrying some of the colored liquid with it. When the gas escapes, the liquid, now heavier, sinks back down. This creates the mesmerizing lava lamp effect.
GIVEAWAY ENCHANTING LIGHTS GIVEAWAY!
Get set for an unforgettable experience at the Tianyu Lights Festival Phoenix! We’re giving away a family four-pack of tickets (two adult tickets and two kid tickets) to this breathtaking lantern festival at Camelback Ranch-Glendale, 10710 W. Camelback Rd., that runs from Oct. 25 through Jan. 5, 2025.
Immerse yourself in a nighttime walkthrough adventure featuring over 40 sets of larger-than-life lantern sculptures crafted by skilled artisans using metal, fabric, and vibrant LED lights. Explore four uniquely themed sections, starting with an illuminated forest alive with critters and plants from diverse ecosystems, anchored by a stunning 3-story butterfly tree. Enter a fairy tale wonderland with unicorns, fairies, and dragons, and snap photos in Panda-land with adorable interactive panda sculptures. Your journey culminates in Ocean World, where you’ll encounter incredible sea animals, including a mesmerizing 100-foot shark tunnel.
Beyond the dazzling lights, enjoy a marketplace with souvenirs and
handicrafts, plus a food court offering a variety of treats for purchase. This world-class festival celebrates art, culture, and community, making it the perfect family outing this fall season!
To enter, email hello@epickidsaz.com with “I WANT TO GO TO TIANYU LIGHTS FESTIVAL” before 5 p.m. on Mon., Sept. 30.
Contest Winners
Congratulations to the Goodwin family for winning our Sweetest Adventure Giveaway that included four tickets to Candytopia at Scottsdale Fashion Square.
Brain Play
SEPTEMBER WORD
Solution on page 15.
Goodwin family.
What's Happening
“HANSEL & GRETEL"
When: Through Sept. 29
Where: Great Arizona Puppet Theatre, 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix
What: A classic story about children, a witch, and a gingerbread house that is sure to delight. Performed with large rod puppets.
Info: azpuppets.org
“THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK”
When: Sept. 11 – Sept. 28
Where: Childsplay, 900 S. Mitchell Dr., Tempe
What: “The Diary of Anne Frank” is a
September 2024
co-production with The Bridge Initiative. It's an engaging story of a young Jewish girl keeping a diary about her life while hiding from the Nazis in Amsterdam.
Info: childsplayaz.com
“SLEEPY HOLLOW: THE MUSICAL”
When: Sept. 19 – 29
Where: Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa
What: Presented by East Valley Children’s Theatre, this production follows foolish schoolmaster Ichabod Crane, who arrives in Sleepy Hollow. He dreams of marrying the wealthy Katrina Van Tassel. However, Katrina’s jealous boyfriend, Brom Bones, stands in his way. To make things worse, the graveyard is haunted by restless spirits, including the infamous Headless Horseman. As tensions rise, Ichabod's pursuit of his dream turns into a chilling encounter with the supernatural. Info: mesaartscenter.com
ARIZONA STATE FAIR
When: Sept. 20 – Oct. 27
Where: Arizona State Fairgrounds, 1826 W. McDowell Rd., Phoenix
What: For more than 140 years, the Arizona State Fair has been a gathering place for residents from the far corners of the state. Filled with cute animals, blue ribbons, fried food, and all the fun carnival rides you can imagine.
Info: azstatefair.com
FAMILY FUN ACTION & ADVENTURE FESTIVAL
When: Sept. 28
Where: Arizona Boardwalk, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale
What: Meet the most-loved action heroes, fly on a zipline, enjoy bounce houses and slides, face painting, live entertainment, action-packed performances, raffle prizes and giveaways, and local vendors for shopping. Info: azboardwalk.com
On Deck: October
“CHARLOTTE’S WEB”
When: Oct. 11 – 27
Where: Valley Youth Theatre, 525 N. First St., Phoenix
What: “Charlotte's Web” by E.B. White is a heartwarming story about the friendship between Wilbur the pig and Charlotte the spider. Wilbur faces the grim fate of
becoming pork chops, but Charlotte, a clever and caring friend, devises a plan to save him. By spinning words like "Some Pig" in her web, Charlotte turns Wilbur into a farm sensation, securing his place forever. This beloved tale, filled with charming farm animals, celebrates bravery, selfless love, and the true meaning of friendship.
Info: vyt.com
SPOOKTACULAR HALLOWEEN CRAFT CLASS
When: Oct. 12
Where: 2545 N. 83rd Ave., #1269, Phoenix What: Join Seasons Ville to create your very own pumpkin eyeball pot! Info: Call 623-349-1977, or email seasonsville@gmail.com
DESERT NEURODEVELOPMENT
Kathleen D. Bree, PsyD, ABPdN, ASDCS Revolutionizing
