luminate-august-2014 by In&Out Publications

LUMINATE AUGUST 2014

YOUR GUIDE TO A HEALTHIER LIFE

LOUSY START?

Don't panic. Lice are more of a nuisance than a health hazard. Page 4.

Who’s in Denial? A D V E R T I S E M E N T

Most of the time, it’s the adult children.

rowing older isn’t easy on any body. Vision starts deteriorating in our 40s, aches and pains increase in our 50s and 60s. Doctor visits and prescriptions soar in our 70s. Once we’re in our 80s it can get very lonely, but heck, we can’t leave the house we raised our family in. Or, can we?

thing your mother and I did... I just wish I weren’t alone every day.” Do You Hear: “I love living in Florida; I would never leave,” or “I’m so lonely; I could easily adjust to Arizona weather and would love more time with my family.”

In about 30 percent of the families I When a senior realizes it just isn’t safe deal with, seniors are the ones in denial or fun to live alone anymore, there are typically clear signs that they are afraid. of their decline. It’s usually the adult But you have to listen for them. children who can’t hear what their parent is really telling them. When Mom Says: “It’s been 52 years next month since your dad and I bought We all get attached to our homes, our this house, we raised all three of you cities, our friends, our community. But girls here... The house is so empty now.” more than that, we all want to feel safe, loved, and cared for. Do You Hear: “I’d never leave, I’ve been here for 52 years,” or “I’m really If your parent is lacking safety, love lonely, I wish I could be closer to you and care, consider having a serious girls and the grandkids.” conversation sooner rather than later. When Dad Says: “Moving away from If you start listening, you might be New York 25 years ago was the best surprised what you can hear them say!

Independent Living? Assisted Living? Living with Me (or my brother/sister)? Ask the experts!

Cheryl Ables began working in the senior care field 10 years ago, after taking care of her parents and grandparent while raising her children. Sam Ile and his family have been in the business of assisted living homes for more than 20 years. Sam and Cheryl are approaching ten NOW OFFER years as owners of Anthem Senior Living. ING… NATIONWID They also operate Eldermom, a senior SENIOR E placement service and, now, Anthem Senior Retreat Assisted Living RELOCATIO home. Sam and Cheryl are experts at the unique challenges posed SERVICES N by aging parents. Have a question? Write or call today! 602-909-9550, cheryl@eldermom.com. Help is on the way! Anthe &

m care & seinrv-home ices!

INSIDE

VOL. 1.7

Choosing Health: How to shift your family's lifestyle

Fear Not the Avocado

ASK A PRO

Nothing Says ‘Back to School’ like the Lice Letter

The Paradox of the Sun: Cancer Fighting, Cancer Causing

THE PULSE

Editor Karen Goveia

kgoveia@anthemnews.com

PREVENTION

LUMINATE

Listings Editor Sarah Crouse

In&Out Publications, LLC P.O. Box 74693 Phoenix, AZ 85087 623-239-3956 | www.anthemnews.com

Contributors Amanda Niemerg

Publisher Nadine Shaalan

events@anthemnews.com

aniemerg@anthemnews.com

Brad Wood

bwood@anthemnews.com

Robert Roy Britt

rbritt@anthemnews.com

nshaalan@anthemnews.com

INGREDIENTS

13 Marketplace 14 Calendar

Luminate Magazine and In&Out Publications, LLC do not endorse any specific product, service, test or treatment. The contents of Luminate Magazine, such as text, graphics, photos and other material (“Content”) are for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Consult your doctor before you start, stop or change any prescribed part of your healthcare plan, fitness plan or treatment.

THE PULSE

Nothing Says ‘Back to School’ like

The Lice Letter By Amanda Niemerg

t happened. The dreaded note in your child’s backpack. There’s been a confirmed case of head lice in your child’s class. Panic and horror sets in.

After all, head lice, parasites about the size of a sesame seed, live on the scalp and feed on human blood. Gross. With an estimated 6 million to 12 million lice infestations each year among children 3 to 11 years of age, according to the Centers for Disease Control, there’s a chance your child could be next.

What to do… Get Perspective If you discover lice or

nits (lice eggs) on your child, don’t panic. While lice are unpleasant, they do not indicate poor hygiene or lack of cleanliness, according to

4 |

the CDC. And, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, head lice are more of an annoyance than a health hazard as they do not spread disease. LUMINATE | AUGUST 2014

So, why do children get sent home from school under no-nit policies? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, they shouldn’t. “No healthy child should be excluded from or allowed to miss school because of head lice. No-nit policies for return to school should be abandoned,” according to a AAP policy revision published in 2010. However, DVUSD maintains a no nit policy. Students with lice or nits are sent home and must be cleared by the school nurse before returning to campus, according to district policy.

Pick Your Poison

A disturbing study published in the March 2014 issue of the Journal of Medical Entomology reported a high population of lice are resistant to pyrethrins or permethrinbased products as a result of gene mutation. Permethrin is the active ingredient in Rid and Nix, products commonly used to kill lice. Over-the-Counter Pediculicides Despite the study, the CDC, the FDA and other health experts continue to include over-thecounter pediculicides (lice-killing chemicals) including Rid and Nix, as a recommendation. Consult your pediatrician for more information on resistance in our area.

Instructions should be followed precisely since pyrethrins kill LUMINATE | AUGUST 2014

only live lice (not the eggs) and elimination depends on the life cycle of the eggs and lice. A second treatment is recommended. Prescription Pediculicides Two FDA-

approved prescription pediculicides are available: Natroba and Sklice. Natroba (with active ingredient spinosad) is safe for those 4 years and older and causes hyper-excitation in lice, followed by paralysis and death. A second treatment might be needed. Sklice (with active ingredient ivermectin), safe for children 6 months and older, also paralyzes and kills lice. Mechanical Methods A lice comb called the Bug Buster was shown to be more effective than pediculicides in a 2005 study published in the British Journal of Medicine.

This method, also called wet-combing, involves running a fine-toothed comb through conditioned, wet hair several times over a two-week period. Air Allé is an FDA-cleared device that delivers hot air similar to a blow dryer but at a higher flow rate and somewhat cooler temperature. A study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology showed the | 5

device to be 95 percent effective at killing lice and eggs after a single one-hour treatment. The lice and nits die apparently by desiccation and the process has no known adverse reactions. Further, it is unlikely lice will develop a resistance to the process. The device is available at many salons. Naturopathic Methods According to

choicemedicalwalkin.com Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, 8 am–5 pm

the Mayo Clinic, small studies show certain essential oils may be toxic to lice and their eggs. Tea tree oil, anise oil, ylang ylang oil, and nerolidol—a compound found in many plant oils, are among those studied. Essential oils are not required to meet FDA standards.

Outsource the Icky Nit-picking There are many third party lice removal companies. Some of these services are accepted by flexible and/or health savings accounts. Contact your insurance company to determine if the cost of the service is covered. Here are a few: Lice Knowing You

480-275-6469 In-salon service in Scottsdale using nut-free, vegan, sulfate-free, gluten-free, paraben-free products. Child returns to school next day, guaranteed. $95/hour, billed in 15-minute increments.

No Nit Noggins 602-441-0231

choicemedicalwalkin.com In-home or in-salon treatment using Air Allé method. Guaranteed to be lice-free for 30 days. $20–$175.

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, 8 am–5 pm Lice Doctors

800-224-2537 In-home service using oils, lice combs. Nits are hand picked. $125 first hour; $25/additional quarter hour. 6 |

LUMINATE | AUGUST 2014

SPONSORED CONTENT

ASK A PRO

CHOOSING HEALTH How to shift your family's lifestyle

Q: “

I am trying to get my family on track with our health and nutrition. They are resisting! Can you help?

”

he first step is to communicate that you want to start making healthier choices—not go on a diet. Good healthy nutrition should be a life-long endeavor. Here are a few tips that should make the transition to health a little easier. 1. Go Slow Gradually change the foods that you deliver to your family. Start adding fruits and veggies to the family's snacks and meals in place of packaged foods. Go slow; If you do make a sudden change, you are going to get push-back, especially from the younger ones. 2. Preparation is Key Control how your food is prepared. Prepare or ask for the food to be prepared in healthier ways. Keep sauces and high-calorie toppings and dressings to a minimum. Choose grilled or baked over fried. If you wouldn’t eat it, don’t let your kids, (e.g. fried processed-chicken nuggets and french fries). 3. Avoid the Fizz Stay away from sodas. These high-sugar, high-calorie drinks are just plain bad for your health. Get away from this addictive, sugary drink and your body will feel better, and you’ll lose weight quickly. 4. Get out Getting outside where you and the kids can run and play encourages physical activity. Swim. Hike. Ride bikes. When it is too hot, take them to indoor activities like bowling or laser tag. Just getting off the couch helps keep you and your family active. Remember, this is not a diet. You are creating a healthy lifestyle that is going to take time to get used to but should last forever. Stay focused and on track and your family will see the benefits of healthy living.

8 |

Scott Skinner is owner of SkinSport Fitness Centers (Anthem and Biltmore locations) specializing in High Intensity training and nutrition to help you shed fat quickly. Scott@skinsport.com skinsport.com

623-229-8975 42211 N. 41st Dr. Suite 169 Anthem

3-Week Rapid Fat-blast

Unlimited training + nutrition plan

Only $67!

LUMINATE | AUGUST 2014

PREVENTION

The Paradox of the Sun PREVENTION

CANCER FIGHTING

CANCER CAUSING

Finding the balance between a crucial vitamin and a deadly disease. By Sydney Marsing

ust a few minutes under the Arizona sky commands a healthy respect for the sun and, despite recent leaps forward [See “Skin Cancer Breakthrough,” Luminate, July 2014], skin cancer remains a deadly threat. But, researchers debate whether our enthusiastic protection from the sun is actually causing another problem. The UVB radiation that causes sunburns, skin damage and cellular mutations is the same UVB that helps our bodies create the critical hormone Vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for strong bones, and new research suggests it may protect against a host of serious health problems… including cancer. “Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with increased risks of deadly cancers, cardiovascular disease, multiple LUMINATE | AUGUST 2014

sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and type 1 diabetes mellitus,” according to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. And, many Americans are deficient in Vitamin D, partly because of our diet, and partly because of our enthusiasm for sunscreen. According to a 2008 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, only 22 percent of adults in Southern Arizona were at or above optimal levels of Vitamin D, and more than 25 percent could be classified as deficient. Worse, indoor dwellers should be concerned about that sun-drenched office. Researchers hypothesize that UVA sunlight filtered through windows can cause cancerous mutations and break down Vitamin D formed during outdoor UVB exposure. Paradoxically, our efforts to avoid cancer might actually be promoting cancer. | 9

skin exposed to sunlight, are both available as supplements, but experts recommend opting for Vitamin D3.

Getting Your D Through Sunshine The most natural way to avoid a Vitamin D deficiency is with a brief daily dose of sunshine, or about half the time it takes for your skin to turn pink and begin to burn, according to the Vitamin D Council.

It's not practical to try to get enough vitamin D through diet alone. Few foods have naturally occurring vitamin D.

Getting Your D Through Diet Getting enough Vitamin D through a balanced diet is very difficult. Vitamin D is found mainly in fatty, cold-water fish such as salmon, bluefish and mackerel. Milk has been artificially fortified with Vitamin D in the United States since 1933 to prevent severe deficiencies which can cause rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults.

Getting Your D Through Supplements While some medical professionals prefer careful exposure to daylight for Vitamin D production, the American Cancer Society’s official stance is to opt for supplements over the sun for a more reliable dose and a reduced risk of cancer. Supplements have been used for decades. Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) which is made by plants, and Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), made by human 10 |

1. Don’t Burn Melanoma risk is highest for severe exposure, and childhood burns are the most dangerous. 2. Don’t Be Fooled by the Cool It may be cooler at 11 a.m. than 5 p.m., but the UV index is actually much higher. UVB waves are highest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you’re planning to escape to higher altitudes like Flagstaff, remember less atmosphere means less protection. With a deceptively cooler climate, Coconino County has the highest rate of new melanoma cases in the state. It’s tricky to feel how intense UV exposure is until you’re already burnt. Look up the UV index for the day online. 3. Make it Habitual Spread out your annual UV exposure to minimize the risk of melanoma. Spend a part of your lunch outside every day, rather than dedicating a weekend or vacation to tanning. 4. Your Mileage Will Vary Those with very dark skin may need 10 to 20 times more exposure than those with very fair skin. Older people produce the vitamin less efficiently. Overweight people are at higher risk of deficiency. Adjust your exposure accordingly, ask your doctor about supplements if exposure times are impractical. 5. How Much For How Long? Several factors affect a body's ability to produce LUMINATE | AUGUST 2014

PROS AND CONS OF SUNSHINE AS A SOURCE OF VITAMIN D PROS

CONS OF THE SUNSHINE SOURCE

• It’s Free and Available Even in the dead of winter, Arizona receives enough ultraviolet light to create vitamin D, (not the case in Northern climates).

• Hard to Measure Several factors affect Vitamin D production including skin color, obesity, age. Low vitamin D status may occur despite more than adequate sun exposure.

• Impossible to O.D. on D While uncommon, supplements can be taken incorrectly or react poorly with other medications or conditions leading to vitamin D toxicity. On the other hand, the body can regulate how much vitamin D it produces itself, and it plateaus at a safe level.

• Got Time? What takes 10 to 15 minutes in June can take closer to 40 minutes in December. In winter, it's important to soak up midday rays, when many are at work.

Vitamin D including skin color, age, weight and geographic location. The National Institute of Health offers a general recommendation: Ten to 15 minutes of sunshine three times weekly is enough to produce the body's requirement of Vitamin D. The sun needs to shine on the skin of your face, arms, back, or legs (without sunscreen). Consider parking at the far end of the parking lot, or take the dog for a brief, sunscreen-free walk. Do apply sunscreen once you have reached the 15-minute limit. LUMINATE | AUGUST 2014

• Arizona Sun Ten to 15 minutes of sun in June can be uncomfortable for some.

Get tested

Ask your doctor for a Vitamin D test. Be specific and ask for a 25(OH)D test. There is another type of blood test for Vitamin D, but the 25(OH)D test will tell you whether you’re getting enough Vitamin D. Check with your insurance company to see if the test is covered. There are also self-test kits available allowing you to prick your finger, blot some blood on a paper and send it off to the lab for analysis. Tests cost about $60–$75. Sources National Institute of Health, Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism

| 11

INGREDIENTS

Fear Not the Avocado

Yes, it's high in fat, but it's 'good' fat. And it does good things for your heart. Eat up, (just not too much). Overview The nutrient-dense avocado

suffered a negative reputation during the low-fat diet craze, but truth is it provides nearly 20 vitamins. And, the fats are of the heart-healthy, monounsaturated type. Benefits • Can be especially good for those with coronary plaque, smokers, people who are overweight, have high cholesterol, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or are older than 55. • Can lower LDL cholesterol • A good source of fiber, which can reduce the risk of a first stroke. • High in potassium, which helps lower blood pressure. • Have a glycemic index of about zero, so a good choice for diabetics. • Are filling so can help weight management. • Contain xanthophills, an antioxidant that helps protect the body from carcinogens and DNA damage. • Are high in carotenoids associated with a lower risk of cartilage defects associated with osteoarthritis.

Source Avocados grow primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. Hass avocados are harvested from January to September and have higher carotenoid levels the later they are harvested. They also have less saturated fat and more monounsaturated oleic acid as they ripen. Good to Know Evidence suggests eating avocados in salsa or a salad can help the body absorb two to five times as many carotenoids. The nutrients are densest near the skin where the flesh is greenest. Precautions and Possible Interactions High in fat, so eat in moderation. Low in protein and several other nutrients so combine with a variety of foods. Some people are allergic: symptoms include wheezing, coughing, swelling or nasal stuffiness.

NOTE The American Heart Association recommends avocados in moderation, much of the research on avocados was supported by the Hass Avocado Board which has a vested interest in promoting benefits. 12 |

LUMINATE | AUGUST 2014

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41810 N Venture Dr, E-152 www.schaffervision.com 623-584-9295 MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED

A holistic approach to help you remove the emotional blocks that are holding you back.

Linda McCarthy, PhD Metaphysican Board Certified Life Strategies Coach

7/16/14 1:50 PM

480-477-8020 newdirectioncoaching.com 4122 W. Innovative Dr Suite 101, Anthem

PUT YOUR HEALTH IN GO OD HANDS Chiropractic works by restoring your inborn abiltiy to be healthy • Infant to Geriatric Care • Manual and Low-force Techniques • Cold Laser & Spinal Decompression • Medicare & most insurance accepted C. Lynn Karvanek, D.C.

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41818 N Venture Drive, #110, Anthem, AZ 602-993-2400 www.desertchiro.com LUMINATE | AUGUST 2014

| 13

CALENDAR FRIDAY 8.1

FRIDAY 8.8

Beginning Tai Chi Chuan

Series of postures or movements done in a slow meditative manner. Registration required.

[See Aug. 1.]

9–10 a.m. North Valley Regional Library 40410 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway 602-652-3000, mcldaz.org

MONDAY 8.4 Anthem Hiking Club Registration Deadline Anthem Community Center 41130 N. Freedom Way 623-879-3011 onlineatanthem.com $27

Hike Carr Lake Loop. Check online for details including difficulty, rating, distance and elevation change. For ages 16 and up. Event Saturday, Aug. 9, at 6:30 a.m.

TUESDAY 8.5 Adult Beginning Yoga

7:15–8:15 p.m. North Valley Regional Library 40410 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway 602-652-3000, mcldaz.org

Slow-flow hatha yoga class for adults. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat (a limited number of mats available to borrow).

Minimally Invasive Knee Surgery Seminar

6–7 p.m. John C. Lincoln Deer Valley HospitalMedical Office Building 1 19841 North 27th Avenue, Phoenix 623-879-5249 event.registration@jcl.com jcl.com/events/events Free

Learn about MAKOplasty partial knee resurfacing for those living with midstage osteoarthritis that has not yet progressed to all three compartments of the knee. Registration required.

WEDNESDAY 8.6 Social Security and You

1 p.m. North Valley Regional Library 40410 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway 602-652-3000 mcldaz.org

Information from an AARP representative to help you decide which way to go.

Yoga for Recovery

6 p.m. John C. Lincoln Deer Valley HospitalMedical Office Building 1 19841 North 27th Avenue, Suite #400 Phoenix 623-780-4673 jcl.com/events Free

Gentle class tailored for breast cancer survivors. 14 |

9–10 a.m. North Valley Regional Library 40410 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway 602-652-3000 mcldaz.org

480-323-4921 jcl.com/events/events-detail/diabeteseducation-series

Learn how to take control of your diabetes during four-week series. Most insurances cover diabetes education with a physician referral. Registration required.

WEDNESDAY 8.13

Ironwood: Complimentary Adult Tennis Clinic

Yoga for Recovery

For Country Club residents.

[See Aug. 6.]

8–9 a.m. Ironwood Country Club 2708 West Anthem Club Drive 623-551-6247 clubcorp.com/Clubs/Anthem-GolfCountry-Club

Free Introduction to Kayaking Classroom Presentation 6–8 p.m. Cabela's 9380 West Glendale Avenue, Glendale 602-372-7470 maricopa.gov/parks

An introductory session on the basics of kayaking. Opportunity to sign up for an open-water session at Lake Pleasant for $40 on Aug. 23 or Sept. 6. For ages 12 and up.

Desert Night Hike

7–9 p.m. Cave Creek Regional Park 37019 North Lava Lane, Cave Creek markpaulat@mail.maricopa.gov maricopa.gov/parks $6/Vehicle

Ranger-guided hike. Look for nocturnal wildlife. Bring your camera and flashlight.

MONDAY 8.11 Adventure Boot Camp 5:30 a.m. Anthem 623-694-3799 anthembootcamp.com $199–299

Four weeks of energizing activities designed for women to help reach fitness goals. Includes pre- and postevaluations and nutritional education. Choose three-day or five-day session per week.

Get P.A.S.T. Asthma

6:30–8 p.m. John C. Lincoln Deer Valley Hospital Medical Office Building 1 19841 North 27th Avenue, Phoenix 623-879-5452 pcoc@jcl.com jcl.com/events

Parents of children with asthma received education on triggers and how to avoid them, medications and action plans.

TUESDAY 8.12 Diabetes Education Series

6–8 p.m. John C. Lincoln Medical Office Building 1 19841 North 27th Avenue, Phoenix

6 p.m. John C. Lincoln Deer Valley HospitalMedical Office Building 1 19841 North 27th Avenue Suite #400, Phoenix 623-780-4673, jcl.com/events Free

THURSDAY 8.14 Breast Cancer Learn and Support Group

6–8 p.m. John C. Lincoln Breast Health and Research Center 19646 North 27th Avenue Suite #205, Phoenix 623-780-4673 jcl.com/events Free

Find support and learn from one another. Open to family and friends.

FRIDAY 8.15 Beginning Tai Chi Chuan 9–10 a.m. North Valley Regional Library 40410 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway 602-652-3000 mcldaz.org

[See Aug. 1]

SATURDAY 8.16 Clay Mine Adventure

7–8:30 a.m. Cave Creek Regional Park 37019 N. Lava Lane (Off 32nd Street) Cave Creek maricopa.gov/parks $6/Vehicle

Open-house style. Discuss the mine's history and learn how its contents were used to cure ailments. Hard hats provided, bring a flashlight and camera. No pets please.

MONDAY 8.18 Anthem Hiking Club Registration Deadline

Anthem Community Center 41130 N. Freedom Way 623-879-3011, onlineatanthem.com $23

Hike Aspen Creek. Check online for details including difficulty, rating, distance and elevation change. For ages 16 and up. Event Saturday, Aug. 23, at 6:30 a.m. LUMINATE | AUGUST 2014

TUESDAY 8.19 Child and Babysitting Safety Registration Deadline Anthem Community Center 41130 N. Freedom Way 623-879-3011, onlineatanthem.com $60

Kids can learn responsibility, how to recognize and act in an emergency and basic first aid. Successful completion earns Childcare and Babysitting Safety (CABS) certification. For ages 11-15. On Oct. 19 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Adult Beginning Yoga

Anthem Civic Building 3701 West Anthem Way 623-910-6072

A forum to share feelings, concerns, information, support and encouragement.

THURSDAY 8.28 Pleasant Paddlers Program 6:30–9:30 a.m. Lake Pleasant Regional Park 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Rd Morristown 602-372-7470 maricopa.gov/parks $6/Vehicle; $2/Watercraft

7:15–8:15 p.m. North Valley Regional Library 40410 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway 602-652-3000, mcldaz.org

An early, weekday paddle. Bring your kayak/canoe/SUP and life vest.

[See Aug. 5.]

Exploring the Dragonfly Trail

NAMI Monthly Family Support Group 7–8:30 p.m. Anthem Civic Building 3701 West Anthem Way 623-444-2816 trish.stevens@hotmail.com Free

Support group for family members whose loved ones are experiencing mental health challenges.

THURSDAY 8.21 There's a New Trail in Town 7–9 a.m. Lake Pleasant Regional Park 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Road Morristown 602-372-7470 maricopa.gov/parks $6/Vehicle

A 3-mile, moderate hike of the Yavapai Point Trail.

FRIDAY 8.22 Free Introduction to Kayaking Classroom Presentation 6–8 p.m. Cabela's 9380 West Glendale Avenue Glendale 602-372-7470 maricopa.gov/parks

[See Aug. 8.]

SATURDAY 8.23 Life along the Creek

7–9:30 a.m. Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area 44000 N. Spur Cross Road, Cave Creek 480-488-6623 maricopa.gov/parks $3 per person

Travel 1.5 miles of the Dragonfly Trail and visit the Jewel of the Creek, while learning about the plants and animals that live there. Some rock-hopping required.

Alzheimer Support Group 10 a.m.–noon

LUMINATE | AUGUST 2014

FRIDAY 8.29 7–10 a.m. Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area 44000 N. Spur Cross Road, Cave Creek 480-488-6623 kevinsmith@mail.maricopa.gov maricopa.gov/parks $3 per person

Moderate 3.5-mile hike exploring creek beds and prehistoric rock art.

Beginning Tai Chi Chuan 9–10 a.m. North Valley Regional Library 40410 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway 602-652-3000 mcldaz.org

Series of postures or movements done in a slow meditative manner. Registration required.

Know and Go Scorpion Hunt 7:30–9 p.m. Lake Pleasant Regional Park 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Rd Morristown 602-372-7470 maricopa.gov/parks $6/Vehicle

A "no touch" hike. Bring a flashlight and black light. Wear closed-toe shoes.

SATURDAY 8.30 Hike and Splash

9–11 a.m. Lake Pleasant Regional Park 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Rd Morristown 602-372-7470 maricopa.gov/parks $6/Vehicle