15 FUN HALLOWEEN FACTS FOR KIDS
Halloween is a popular holiday that kids and adults both get excited to celebrate. But we bet you didn’t know some of these fun facts about this spooky holiday.
Halloween was celebrated in the United States starting in the 1840s. Its early beginnings are rooted in a Celtic holiday called Samhain that started 2,000 years ago.
The largest Halloween parade is in New York City every year.
There is a Halloween theme park in New Hampshire!
The president hands out candy at the White House every year!
Candy corn was originally sold for chickens! It was called “chicken feed.”
Trick-or-treating comes from the medieval practice of mumming in which costumed actors parade on the streets and perform in homes. Aside from Hallows Eve, they also did this on other feast days like Christmas, Shrove Tuesday, and Twelfth Night.
The world record for the heaviest pumpkin weighted in at 2,624.6 pounds.
In Dublin, Georgia, any type of costume that covers the face is illegal.
The fear of Halloween is called Samhainophobia.
Americans spent around $10.14 billion on Halloween in 2021, a record high.
Illinois grows more pumpkins than any other state!
In Ireland, they would carve turnips for Halloween, not pumpkins!
In China, Halloween celebrations are called the Festival of the Hungry Ghosts.
The jack-o’-lantern originated from an Irish myth about a man named “Stingy Jack.”
Master escape artist Harry Houdini died in 1926 on Halloween from a ruptured appendix, but many of the circumstances surrounding his demise remain mysterious to this day.
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Headliners
SPORTS LEGENDS
Pro baseball players sit down for interview with 7-year-old.
Hi,Give your child a brain boost. New group music lessons for kids are enrolling TODAY!
Valley: evyamahamusic.com
North Phoenix: npyamahamusic.com
(480) 926-4441
I’m Nicholas, your monthly Epic Kids columnist. I’m a third-grade CEO and this month I’m writing about my brother’s experience interviewing Hall of Fame Arizona Diamondback legends Randy Johnson and Luis Gonzalez (“Gonzo”).
My 7-year-old brother is sports obsessed and got the chance to attend the opening of the new Cold Beers and Cheeseburgers restaurant at Chase Field. The restaurant overlooks the baseball field and it’s super cool. At the opening, Zachary (who we call Zaza) chatted with Randy Johnson. Randy played for the Diamondbacks when they won the World Series as a left-handed pitcher known as “The Big Unit.” They call him that because he’s 6’10” and held the title of tallest player in major league history for much of his career! He told Zaza winning the World Series was the greatest feeling in the world.
He also talked about tips for becoming a pro baseball player (my brother and I love baseball), and he suggested practicing a lot and learning the different positions.
Randy was inducted into the Baseball Hall of
Fame, which he says was the most incredible honor. A 10-time All-Star, he won over 300 games in his career, including a perfect game, and holds nearly every major career pitching record in D-backs franchise history.
While he doesn’t play baseball anymore, Randy is still involved with the Diamondbacks, but spends most of his free time traveling and doing photography. He said the most fascinating place he’s been to is Africa.
Zaza also got to interview Luis Gonzalez, known as “Gonzo.” Gonzalez spent his best years with the D-Backs and was one of the most popular players in the organization's history. What’s super cool about Gonzo is he had the winning hit during Game 7 when the D-Backs were in the World Series (and here’s a fact: my dad was at that game! Back then, they didn’t have iPhones, so he holds onto the memories). Gonzo said the team grew together as a family, played hard, and fought to win the amazing title.
When Zaza asked Gonzo’s tips for playing baseball, he told him to have fun and to make friends with everyone.
Join Nicholas on his epic journey via Instagram @creationsbynicholas and creationsbynicholas. com.
Zaza with Randy Johnson.
Zaza with Luis Gonzalez.
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Charity
A Journey of Hope and Healing: How Your Family Can Help a Brave Valley Kid
By Michelle Talsma Everson
Photo Courtesy of the Armer Foundation and the Burkhart family
AndrewBurkhart, 15, and his family haven’t always had an easy journey, but they’ve always had faith. Right after he was born, Andrew suffered a brain injury and developed cerebral palsy, a disorder that impacts his ability to move and maintain balance and posture. Then, two years ago, he was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder. Both conditions significantly impact his quality of life—but he keeps going strong.
When he was 4, his parents, Kellie and Andrew Burkhart, Sr., decided to take a leap of faith and treat
treatments after experiencing dead ends with more traditional treatments. They saw results, but the alternative treatments must be paid for out-of-pocket, meaning the family must rely on the generosity of their community to continue to seek out medical care.
“Andrew has spent his life in an ongoing effort to improve his health and quality of life,” Kellie explains. “He has seen doctors and therapists of different types weekly his entire life… I wish that he could live a more typical life, but we are very grateful that these treatments have improved his health and for everyone who made these treatments happen financially.”
Andrew, who’s homeschooled, was recently chosen to be an
dation for Kids, which helps to collect tax deductible donations to pay for Andrew’s medical care. The foundation’s overall goal is, “To reduce financial barriers for families so that they can care for their children with chronic or life-altering diseases.”
“We are trying to raise around $10,000 to get Andrew to a world-renowned doctor in Washington who specializes in neurological disorders. We also hope to make changes to our home that the doctor recommends making to make it a healthier environment for him,” Kellie says.
The Burkhart family shares their story on their blog (prayforandrew.wordpress.com/our-story) to keep the community updated on how Andrew is doing and their
Andrew has spent his life in an ongoing effort to improve his health and quality of life, regardless of his medical issues.
they manage a Facebook page (facebook.com/AndrewsAngels123) with more than 12,000 followers.
To learn more about Andrew and to donate to help with his medical expenses, visit armerfoundation.
Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children Making the Move into Larger Space
Ava’s Tree House was created to offer children the gift of childhood in a safe, hyperclean, comforting environment. Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children’s new 12,000 square foot building will be remodeled into just that, a stress-reducing environment for families impacted by pediatric cancer.
A combination of peace of mind and marvel under one roof, Ava’s Tree House gives parents the guidance and sense of community for which they have longed. Families will feel part of a community with ongoing financial, social, and emotional support, allowing them to leave
their troubles behind, if only for a short time.
Chrisie Funari, president and founder of Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children, was inspired by her personal experience of losing her daughter Ava to cancer to find a way to offer support to families going through the struggles and isolation of having a child with pediatric cancer.
“'Your child has cancer.' Nothing can prepare you for those devastating words,” says Chrisie.
“When I lost Ava, I didn’t give up hope. I knew my story wasn’t unique; all families who have a child with cancer face the same struggles. That’s what inspires me
7010 E Chauncey Lane
to create change by providing direct assistance to Arizona families who have a child with cancer.”
Ava’s Tree House’s new state-ofthe-art resource center is centrally located off 70th Street and Shea Boulevard and is on the track to being completed by early 2023.
“Ava’s Tree House will be a lasting legacy to Ava who has greatly impacted the lives of so many chil-
dren with cancer and their families,” says Chrisie.
Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children’s mission is to provide social, emotional, and financial support directly to families managing the health and wellbeing of a loved one with pediatric cancer. For more information on Ava’s Tree House or to donate, visit azcancerfoundation.org.
For as long as Khalid Navarro can remember, he has loved sports. He’s played soccer, football, and baseball, and excelled at all of them. It wasn’t until recently his dad suggested he run track to increase his speed on the field. Turns out, Khalid’s fast––really fast! At 8 years old, Khalid has been named an All American and is fifth in the nation for the 800 events, second in the nation for the javelin throw, and has also won numerous medals in the 4x4 relay. Over the summer, he competed in the National Junior Olympics in Sacramento, California and placed ninth his first year. This kid is unstoppable, and Creighton School District is proud to call him a student.
Khalid is not just a great athlete, but a leader on the field with his teammates. He regularly leads his team in warm-up drills and competes as a team in the 4x4 relays. His encouragement and determination to keep growing as an athlete is contagious. When asked what advice he has for other kids who want to compete in track and field, Khalid says, “Even if you’re tired, keep on pushing. Always strive to beat your time and reach your goals.” Khalid adheres to this advice not only as an athlete but as a student too.
Khalid says he knows the importance of being a good student in the world of sports. To compete in high school and college, he must get good grades. He says the way to do that is to study, listen to your teacher, and get your homework done. School isn’t all homework and studying, Khalid enjoys doing experiments in science class, and hanging with his friend at recess. P.E. is his favorite subject.
He loves the hands-on learning
that Papago School in the Creighton School District has to offer, whether that’s with iPads in class or taking field trips. Recently, Khalid participated in a field trip to the Musical Instrument Museum, where he got to play the instruments, learn the history of music, and see how each instrument sounded.
His fondest memory is of Ms. Mendez his secondgrade teacher at Papago School. Khalid enjoyed how she motivated her students to always strive to grow academically and he especially loves fun Fridays when students are able to use points earned for good behavior and grades to “buy” items from a treasure chest. By the end of second grade, Khalid had the most points out of anyone in his class. These experiences created memories that will last a lifetime.
“Khalid is a hard-working student and is a very talented athlete. He is recognized as a leader in the classroom. We are very proud of him!,” says Papago School Principal Sylvia Early.
Khalid wants his training to translate into a career in the NFL. Right now, Patrick Mahomes, the quarterback for the Chiefs, is his favorite player and he routinely cheers for the Chiefs. He wants to keep competing on track teams, as well as practicing his skills on the football field.
He hopes to play football in high school and college. At 8 years old, Khalid says he has too many trophies to count. He also has the full support of his parents, who have supported and encouraged him to keep moving forward as he gets closer to achieving his goal of not only becoming a track star but playing in the NFL.
Khalid with his mom Kayra Navarro.
Career Day TREAT MAKER
Maria Arenas whips up sweet treats as a pastry chef.
Maria Arenas
Profession: Pastry Chef
Age: 30
What do you do for a living?
I'm the pastry chef at Hotel Valley Ho. I am in charge of anything and everything that has to do with baking and desserts, including at the restaurant (ZuZu), for catering functions, and in-room dining. We are constantly changing things to keep up with the seasons. Fun fact, our “Show Stopper” Shake changes every month! These are always over the top, with a wide variety of fun themes and flavors.
What type of training do you need to do your job?
I went to two culinary schools to study to become a pastry chef in Argentina, where I am originally from. Culinary school teaches you techniques and basic recipes, but I think that you don't necessarily need to
go to culinary school to become a pastry chef. The key is to learn as much as you can in your job, read books, and practice.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
I love that the pastry world doesn't have an end; you can learn something new every day and be creative.
What did you want to be growing up?
I always liked the arts. Growing up, I wanted to be a painter and have my own gallery.
What advice would you give to a kid who wants to have a similar career?
I think if you want to be in the culinary world, you must be patient, work hard, and learn from other chefs and peers. Like I said before, there is always something new to learn and ways to hone your craft.
One Fun fact NOT about your job?
I love gardening. I have a collection of succulents and cacti on my balcony. I always tell my husband that when and if I retire, I want to have my own nursery.
Photos courtesy of Hotel Valley Ho
Pastry Chef Maria Arenas.
May 2022 Show Stopper Shake - May the 4th.
April 2022 Show Stopper Shake.
Brain Play Sari on SCIENCE
DO-IT-YOURSELF ROBOTIC HAND
Have you thought about what to wear this Halloween? This robotic hand will give you some inspiration and teach you about how your hand works at the same time. Movements of the hand are mostly started by muscles in the forearm. Only the thin tendons of these muscles are found directly in the hand: the extensor tendons used for stretching the hand run through the back of the hand to the tips of the fingers, and the flexor (bending) tendons run through the palms to the fingers. For today, we are going to focus on the flexor tendons that allow you to grip and grab.
Here’s what you need:
• Cardboard
• Box Cutter
• Ruler
• Scissors
• Hot Glue Gun/Hot Glue Sticks
• String
• Bendy Straws
Directions:
• On cardboard, trace a hand with about 4 inches of the forearm. At the end of the forearm, trace an additional part that has a width of 1 to 2 inches and a length that will fit around the palm of your hand. Once all is traced, use the box cutter to cut it out.
• Use the ruler to bend the fingers where the joints will go. Next, use the ruler to bend the strap so that it will fit around the palm of your hand.
• Using scissors, cut 20 small pieces of straw that are about ½ inch long, four pieces that include the bendy part, and four pieces that are about an inch long.
• Using the hot glue gun, glue the small straw pieces onto one side of the hand, this will be the front of the hand. The first straw pieces to glue will be three on the fingers and two on the thumb in between the folded parts. The next four small straw pieces will be glued on the upper palm under the last fold of the four fingers. Below the last fold on the thumb poke a hole to fit a straw piece through and glue. The four longer straw pieces will be glued about two inches below the other straw pieces.
• Using five different pieces of string, thread them through the straws of each finger. Tie a loop that your finger will go through and tie the other end to the straw at the tip of each finger and the tip of the thumb.
• To make the arm more secure, hot glue strips of cardboard to the back of the arm.
• Decorate if you would like!
What Do You Observe?
We focused on the flexor tendons but how do you think the extensor tendons would look on the robot hand?
Question to ask yourself: If you were to build a robot hand again, is it important to base the design on the hand or can you design something different?
Sari Custer is a lifelong science junkie, Chief Curiosity Officer at Arizona Science Center, and mom to daughter Carson (7). Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @ SariOnScience.
Brain Play
just for fun
1
JOKES AND FUN FACTS FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY.
Why don’t cats like online shopping?
3
2
Which is the cutest of all the seasons?
What are ten things you can always count on?
Coober Pedy is a city in the Australian outback, where more than 50% of the inhabitants live in underground caves.
Although we often think of pumpkins as vegetables, they’re actually fruits! Pumpkins, along with cucumbers, tomatoes, and avocados, come from the flowers of their plants. That makes them all fruits.
Ireland is typically believed to be the birthplace of Halloween.
1. They prefer a cat-alogue. 2. Your fingers. 3. Awww-tumn. is the second highest grossing commercial holiday after Christmas.
The World Series of Major League Baseball always starts in October. The first World Series took place on Oct. 1, 1903, with the Boston Americans winning it all.
make us chuckle!
Email a joke or far out fact, along with your first name, age, and the school you attend, to
BOOK CLUB Brain Play
HIDDEN FIGURES
AUTHOR: Margot Lee Shetterly
GENRE:
Middle-Grade Non-Fiction
AGES: 8+
RATING: AAAAA
SYNOPSIS: This book brings to life the stories of Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden,
who lived through the Civil Rights era, the Space Race, the Cold War, and the movement for gender equality, and whose work forever changed the face of NASA and the country. It is the powerful story of four African American female mathematicians at NASA who helped achieve some of the greatest moments in our space program.
MY FAVORITE QUOTE FROM THIS BOOK: “Their goal wasn't to stand out because of their differences; it was to fit in because of their talents.”
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS BOOK WAS: The inspiring story! I loved reading about these incredible women who stood up for what they believed in.
MY FAVORITE CHARACTER IN THIS BOOK WAS: All four mathematicians! Each woman was unique and had their own beautiful story that is worthy of recognition.
FANS OF THIS BOOK MAY ALSO LIKE: “See You in the Cosmos” by Jack Cheng, “We Dream of Space” by Erin Entrada Kelly, “Space Case” by Stuart Gibbs Avery, 16, is an avid reader and book reviewer. When not reading, you can find her playing volleyball, hanging out with friends, or with one of her pets! Follow her on Instagram and TikTok at @readbyfin.
What's Happening
By Gretchen Pahia
“SPOOKLEY THE SQUARE PUMPKIN: THE MUSICAL”
WHEN: Through Oct. 30
WHERE: Valley Youth Theatre, 526 N. First St., Phoenix
WHAT: “Spookley the Square Pumpkin: The Musical” combines the spectacle and joy of Halloween with delightful songs that people of all ages will love! The production tells the story of a square pumpkin living in a round pumpkin patch on Holiday Hill Farm. Shunned by the other pumpkins, Spookley is befriended by Edgar, Allan, and Poe, three hilarious spiders who convince him that, square or not, he has a right to be the "Pick of the Patch."
INFO: vyt.com
SCARIZONA
WHEN: Through Oct. 31
WHERE: 1901 N. Alma School Rd., Mesa
WHAT: Scarizona Scaregrounds features scary haunted attractions that are recommended for ages 12 and up. The event runs through Oct. 31. Also, new in 2022, Scarizona is featuring a separate Halloween drive-through light show, Frights
October 2022
in the Lights. This is a separate drivethru mini event intended for families with young children or those who don’t wish to experience the haunted houses.
INFO: scarizona.com and frightsinthelights. com
“HOCUS
POCUS” TEA
WHEN: Oct. 19 through Oct. 30
WHERE: 1730 E. Warner Rd., Tempe
WHAT: “Hocus Pocus” fans this one is for you. Join in and celebrate All Hallows’ Eve and all things witchy with a “Hocus Pocus” inspired afternoon tea service at DrinkMe Tea Room. The Literary Tea is held from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 and include a pot of tea in any flavor, as well as glutenfree and plant-based savories and sweets. Dressing up in theme is highly encouraged. Reservations are required.
INFO: drinkmetearoom.com
“CINDERELLA”
WHEN: Oct. 20, 21, 22, & 23
WHERE: Ballet Arizona, 2835 E. Washington St., Phoenix
WHAT: As if stepping between the pages of a beloved storybook, Ib Andersen’s “Cinderella” brings the romantic story to life, vividly delighting audiences with the beauty and majesty of classical ballet, wrapped in the promise of “happily ever after,” and generously sprinkled with a wonderful dose of humor.
INFO: balletaz.org/performance/ cinderella-2022
NATIONAL REPTILE DAY
WHEN: Oct. 21
WHERE: Butterfly Wonderland, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale
WHAT: Enjoy a reptile visit with Draco the Chinese Water Dragon. Learn interesting reptile facts from experts at the Conservatory’s Education Cart and throughout the building from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Don’t miss a special celebration at Reptile Talk at 1 p.m. in the theater! INFO: butterflywonderland.com
BOO-LOON TRICK OR TREAT BASH
WHEN: Oct. 21 & 22
WHERE: Bell Bank Park, 1 Legacy Dr., Mesa
WHAT: This family-fun event is on Bell Bank Park’s 22-acre grass festival field. The fun includes trick or treating, 15 glowing balloons on the ground from Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Ride Company, inflatables, pumpkin decorating, and live performances, food, and more from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
INFO: bellbankpark.com
HALLOWEEN MONSTER BASH
WHEN: Oct. 22
WHERE: Peoria Sports Complex, 16101 N. 83rd Ave, Peoria
WHAT: The annual Peoria Halloween Monster Bash is back. The free, family-friendly event takes place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and includes plenty of delicious treats, as well as musical entertainment, costume contests, family activities, and more.
INFO: peoriaaz.gov/events
SPOOKTACULAR HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL
WHEN: Oct. 28 & Oct. 29
WHERE: Salt River Fields, 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale
WHAT: Enjoy the over 20 hot air balloons on display. Over 4,000 pounds of candy for trick-or-treaters, live music, food and beverage, a Kids’ Zone, vendor market, tethered balloon rides, a haunted Spooky trail, fireworks, and much more await. Experience the Balloon Spooktacular for a safe, fun filled trick-or-treating Halloween Festival from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., both days.
INFO: saltriverfields.com/spooktacular-hot-air-balloon-festival HALLOWEEN BASH
WHEN: Oct. 29
WHERE: Arizona Boardwalk Courtyard, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale
WHAT: Don’t miss the Annual Family Fun AZ Halloween Bash where kids 18 and under have a chance to win $1,000 cash during a Halloween costume contest! Kids can trick-or-treat for candy, enjoy bounce houses, slides, face painting, live entertainment, family-friendly performances, shopping, raffles, and giveaways from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is a free event. INFO: azboardwalk.com
TRICK-OR-TREAT AT THE MUSEUM
WHEN: Oct. 29, 30, & 31
WHERE: Children’s Museum of Phoenix, 215 N. 7th St., Phoenix
WHAT: Join the Children’s Museum of Phoenix for three days of spooktacular fun! Ghosts and ghouls are invited to trick-or-treat through the museum––monster mash on.
INFO: childrensmuseumofphoenix.org
TEMPE HALLOWEEN STROLL
WHEN: Oct. 30
WHERE: 24 E. 6th St., Tempe
WHAT: Guests can enjoy notso-spooky events including Halloween-themed games, crafts, a costume contest, and trick-or-treating courtesy of local merchants around Downtown Tempe. The 2022 Halloween Stroll takes place at the 6th Street Park from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
INFO: downtowntempe.com/
Fall Festival Fall Festival
Pumpkins
NEW Mega Slide
Corn Maze
Jump Pad
Petting Zoo
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 matter most to them and their peers, including breaking news, current events, sports, entertainment, school clubs, and kid profiles. Their stories will appear in both print and digital editions of Epic Kids.
The resulting news clips are invaluable in growing and developing a portfolio of published work that can help students get scholarships and future educational opportunities.
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.