SanTan FAMILY FUN
Celebrate diverse traditions this holiday season
By Alison Stanton
When Ania Kubicki was a young girl growing up in Krakow, Poland, she remembers learning about the holidays through what she calls a “very narrow Catholic filter.”
“St. Nicholas came in early December, we all went to church during advent, and angels brought us little gifts under the tree when we woke up on Christmas morning—after going to the midnight Mass,” she says.
“Everyone put their Christmas trees up at the same time and took them down after Three Kings. It is hard to believe that in the late ’70s and early ’80s that was my entire experience of the holidays and I honestly had no idea that there was any other way to celebrate.”
When Kubicki, now a Chandler resident, became a mom, she and her husband, Jason, vowed that their son, Ben, now 10, would learn about all sorts of holiday traditions—not just their own.
“While we maintain strong faith-based traditions in our family, I wanted to make sure that Ben gets exposed to the beautiful diversity of celebrations,” she says.
“Especially since mainstream media would have you believe that Christmas is all about shopping, I wanted to make sure that Ben knows about the various ways that people celebrate Christmas or other winter holidays around the world.”
Ruth Lucas, a Chandler-based professional consultant and life coach specializing in relationships and parenting, says that there are definite benefits of teaching kids about different holiday traditions and religions. The most obvious of which, she says, is that it provides children with the opportunity to sidestep what she calls “the limitation of ethnocentrism that can stifle one’s sophistication, intellectual growth and the synergy of diversity.”
Teaching kids about other holiday cultures and religions can and should be fun, Lucas says.
“For instance, once the kids are reading, start with learning about how different countries celebrate the same holidays you do,” she explains. “If you and yours celebrate Christmas, how is Christmas celebrated in Nigeria, Hungary or Belgium?” Perhaps the kids there sing different songs than ‘Silent Night’ and ‘Santa Claus is Coming to Town.’”
“In Great Britain, those who celebrate Christmas also observe Boxing Day, and the kids can learn what Boxing Day is and what it means.”
Other ideas, Lucas says, involve picking out a different country or ethnicity every year when a child is young, and learning a new song and maybe a holiday-related recipe.
“As they get older, you can introduce other religions as well as traditions or invite them to select some on their own and plan a night to share what you each discovered with one another,” she says.
In addition to teaching Ben about her Polish traditions, Kubicki says they have also discussed and learned about holiday celebrations in Mexico, Italy, India and many African nations.
“We’ve talked about the importance of fasting and why such modality is present in most religions, and the importance of celebrations from prayers to foods,” she says.
Her family also really enjoyed attending the Advent and Christmas Around the World event at their church, St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Faith Community in Chandler.
Suzie Malloy, coordinator of children’s ministry at St. Andrew, says she organizes the event every two or three years, and that all 600 or so kids in the religious education program along with their parents go from room to room at the church, learning about a different country in each one and its holiday customs and traditions.
“Part of the reason we do the multicultural event is because a lot of our traditions—including putting up lights, Christmas trees and hanging up a wreath—all first took place years ago and
HAVING FUN WITH FISH: Ben Kubicki, right with blue vest and tie, jokes around with family friend, Alden Witte, at a traditional Polish holiday dinner, eating some Swedish Fish with style. Since Ben was a young boy, his parents have taught him not only about his mom’s Polish holiday traditions, but many others as well. Submitted photo
they all come from other countries’ traditions, “ she says. “So it gives them a chance to learn these things.”
Kubicki says she, Jason and Ben all loved learning about the unique rituals observed around the same holiday in different countries. Ben especially enjoyed participating with his mom at the table they had prepared for the event about Poland.
“His favorite part was talking about the various foods that he now gets to eat on Christmas Eve at his Grandma’s house, from borsch to the tradition of sharing the thin wafer called the Oplatek and doing holiday wishes; he was so excited to give his two cents,” she says.
She hopes that by learning about other holiday traditions other than his own, Ben will grow up into a young man who has a basic knowledge and respect of other cultures and their diverse celebrations, foods and rituals.
“To me there is nothing more beautiful than human traditions and respects paid through traditions,” Kubicki says. “I wanted to expose him to the diversity to deepen his knowledge and increase his appreciation.”
Alison Stanton is a freelance writer who lives in the East Valley. She can be reached at alison@santansun.com.
Resources
• “Christmas Around the World,” by Mary D. Lankford
• “Holidays Around The World: Celebrate Christmas: With Carols, Presents and Peace,” by Deborah Heiligman
• “Light the Candle! Bang the Drum!: A Book of Holidays from Around the World,” by Ann Morris
1
3-D Art for Teens, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Materials and instructions are included in this fun and unique workshop. Ages 12 to 17. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. $30. (480) 782-2727, www.chandleraz.gov.
1, 8, 15
The Teen Scene, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Hang out with friends, play games, grab a spot to study, use a laptop or just munch on some snacks. Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org.
2 LEGO Club, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The library supplies the LEGO sets, you supply the imagination. Ages 5 to 12. Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 7822800, www.chandlerlibrary.org.
2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 30
Tumbleweed Tumbling Tots, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. This indoor play area is designed for children 5 and younger to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $3. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.
3, 17
Family Night at the TRC, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The first and third Wednesdays of the month, enjoy a variety of different recreational activities and entertainment. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $5. For more information contact Michael Fenzel, (480) 7822908. www.chandleraz.gov/breaktime.
3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 24, 26, 29, 31
Tumbleweed Tumbling Tots, 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. This indoor play area is designed for children ages 5 and younger to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There
is a maximum of four children per adult. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $2 to $3. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.
3, 10, 17
STEAM, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Explore science, technology, engineering, art and math through interactive and exciting activities. Ages 6 to 11. Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Free, but registration required. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org.
4
Breakfast with Santa, 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Shoppers and their little ones are invited to enjoy free breakfast with Santa when they bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Salvation Army’s Forgotten Angels program. Shoppers will also be able to enjoy storytelling with Mrs. Claus, cookie decorating, craft stations and more. Chandler Fashion Center Food Court, 3111 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. (480) 8128488, www.shopchandlerfashioncenter.com.
4, 6
Christmas Candy Trains, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Assemble festive trains using candy bars, tootsie rolls, peppermints and more. Ages 2 to 5. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. $6 to $9; $4 supply fee. (480) 782-2727, www.chandleraz.gov.
4, 11, 18
Teen Create-Space, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Enjoy an open, create-friendly environment where teens are invited to create projects like crochet, coding, duct tape art, 3-D printing/3-D Pen Doodling and more. Ages 12 to 18. Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org.
5
DIY Holiday Cards, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Learn easy and creative techniques to make your own holiday cards. Students will create three cards, using stamps, Washi Tape, pretty papers and ribbon. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $6 to $9; $4
supply fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.
5, 6, 7
Ballet Etudes’ “The Nutcracker,” various times. A feast for the eyes and ears with colorful imaginative costumes paired with Tchaikovsky’s original score, Ballet Etudes’ “The Nutcracker” is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with the entire family. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. $25 to $29. (480) 782-2680, www.chandleraz.gov.
6
Family Birdwalks, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Desert Rivers Audubon leads freeguided bird watching tours through Veterans Oasis Park. One-hour walks begin every 30 minutes. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Free, call in advance for groups of 10 or more. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.
6
Creative Christmas Crafts, 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. for ages 3 to 5; 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. for ages 6 to 12. This festive class is full of fun and exciting Christmas crafts. Spend some time meeting new friends and exploring your creative side while celebrating the Christmas season. Snedigar Recreation Center, 4500 S. Basha Rd., Chandler. $6 to $9; $6 supply fee. (480) 782-2640, www.chandleraz.gov/snedigar.
6 Annual Tumbleweed Tree
Lighting Ceremony, 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Ring in the holiday season in Historic Downtown Chandler with lights, a parade, Santa’s House, vendor booths and activities for the kids. Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 3 S. Arizona Ave, Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/special-events.
6, 13
Vision Kidz Workshop, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Children will get the opportunity to work with a professional artist and create a piece of art that is representative of their creativity. Vision Gallery, 10 E. Chicago St., Chandler. Free, registration required. (480) 782-2695, www.chandleraz.gov.
6, 11, 13, 20
Santa’s House, various times. Santa is coming to town and the City of Chandler invites all to get a free picture taken with the big man himself. Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov.
7 Tiny Tumbleweeds: Toddler Stroll, 9 a.m. Join other families as they meander along the stroller-friendly Interpretive Trail in the cool, crisp weather. Be sure to bring water, a hat, sunscreen and wear closed-toed shoes. San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Philips Rd., Queen Creek. $6. (480) 655-554, www.maricopa.gov/parks/santan.
8 Just Globe with It, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This fun and unique workshop is just for teens. Using a standard globe, they will create their own world of art. Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. Free, preregistration required. (480) 7822727, www.chandleraz.gov.
10
Rhythm & Rhyme, 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Bring your energy for dancing, singing and playing instruments to favorite children’s songs. Ages birth through 5. Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org.
11, 12
Polar Express, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Enjoy a night of storytelling, crafts and hot cocoa as the Tumbleweed Recreation Center recreates the North Pole for one night of magic. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $6 to $9. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.
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Come Alive Story Time with Ms. Diana—Nature Edition, 9:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Children build positive attitudes, character, self-esteem and values through interactive stories,
music, games and drama. Environment Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $6 to $9. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov.
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Holiday Ornaments, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Create holiday ornaments to use or gift this holiday season. Participants will make three ornaments. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. $6 to $11; $10 supply fee. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.
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Holiday Toy Drive, 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sponsored by Chandler Fire and Health and Medical, for every unwrapped toy donated participants will receive a ride on a fire truck. Chandler Fashion Center Valet Parking Area, 3111 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2120, www.chandleraz.gov.
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Meet the Creature, 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. In this interactive program, children will see animals while receiving a fun lesson in wildlife rescue and conservation. Registration required. Children ages 2 to 12 must be accompanied by a paid adult. Veterans Oasis Park’s Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $6 to $9. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.
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Sonoran Sunset Series, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Visit the Environmental Education Center for this free, lakeside entertainment series good for the whole family. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 7822890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.
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Bubble Blast, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Children will enjoy playing with bubble wands, bubble machines and bubbles in a fun and safe environment. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2900, www.chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed.
See Calendar, Page 4
Science celebration and maker event seeking exhibitors
Chandler’s annual celebration of science is looking for businesses, artists and school groups to join in the celebration.
The Chandler Science Spectacular, a two-day celebration of inventors, creativity and science in everyday lives, is accepting applications for vendors. Chandler’s festival is a signature event in the Arizona SciTech Festival, a statewide movement to earn recognition for Arizona as a science and technology hub. The events are Friday, Feb. 20, and Saturday, Feb. 21, in downtown Chandler.
New this year is E.P.I.C. Fest (Explore. Play. Imagine. Create.), a mini maker event showcasing the handiwork of makers—a burgeoning movement of technology-based Do-It-Yourself creators. The maker culture is full of people using new and unique techniques, as well as traditional forms of DIY, to invent new prototypes and projects and apply practical skills creatively.
Individuals and organizations in these fields are encouraged to get involved in one of the following events:
• A Night of Art and Science, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20: Technology meets the arts as downtown Chandler transforms its monthly Third Friday Art Walk into a creative look at the science behind the beauty, art and invention around us. Exhibitors contact: Allison Davis, (480) 855-3539 or allison@downtownchandler.org.
• Chandler’s Science Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21: Science meets daily life in downtown Chandler with interactive demonstrations and activities by Chandler’s technology companies. Check out the next generation of science from ASU, UA and TechShop at the Chandler Innovation Center. See what future entrepreneurs are inventing through student projects at all education levels. Exhibitors Contact: Odetta Moore, (480) 782-3038 odetta.moore@chandleraz.gov
• New this Year: E.P.I.C. Fest, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21: Are you a maker? The maker culture is full of hobbyists, tinkerers, engineers and programmers using new and unique technologies, as well as traditional forms of DIY, to create something original. They are inventing new prototypes and projects, and applying practical skills in a creative fashion. Apply early to ensure space and receive discounted pricing. Exhibiters click: http://chandlerepicfest.com/participate/ or contact Arden Morgan, (480) 657-7333, ext. 2121, arden@r-entertainment.com. The Chandler Science Spectacular and E.P.I.C. are sponsored by Intel, and all events are free and open to the public. For details and information, visit www.chandleraz.gov/science or www.chandlerepicfest.com.
Calendar, From Page 3
19
Bug Zoo, 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Explore a real, live collection of bugs with a certified entomologist. Learn about beneficial bugs, such as butterflies, lady bugs and bees. Children will receive a free activity book. Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. $3 to $5 registration fee. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.
19
Friday Feeding Frenzy, 3:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Join the EEC staff on the first and third Friday of each month for a live animal feeding. Veterans Oasis Park’s Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2890, www.chandleraz.gov/eec.
19
Chandler Art Walk, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Browse the different types of art made available by talented artists. Downtown Chandler, 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Free. (480) 855-3539, www.chandlerartwalk.com.
20
Teen Book Lovers Club, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Join fellow book lovers in discussing an array of books and get the chance to read and review books before they are published. Ages 12 to 18. Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Free. (480) 782-2800, www.chandlerlibrary.org.
20, 21
27th Annual Spirit of Christmas, various times. Hosted by Tom Booth, this is an energetic
variety show featuring a cast of more than 100 dancers, singers, a horse and carriage, special guest performers and a champion hoop dancer. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. $24 to $28. (480) 782-2680, www.chandleraz.gov.
22
Yoyo Camp, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. This one-day workshop will teach participants basic yoyo skills and advance competition tricks and will be taught by a national yoyo champion. Snedigar Recreation Center, 45000 S. Basha Rd., Chandler. $3 to $5 registration fee; $10 supply fee; $10 instructor fee. (480) 782-2640, www.chandleraz.gov/snedigar.
26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
Zoppé Family Circus, various times. Entertaining audiences since 1824, this circus is full of acrobatic feats, canine capers, equestrian showmanship and plenty of audience participation. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. $15 to $40. (480) 782-2680, www.chandleraz.gov.
1 through 24
Santa Photos at
Chandler Fashion Center
The Gridiron Update
By Seth Cox
As another high school football season ends for SanTan Sun News-area schools, there are many factors to ponder for each team. With two SanTan Sun News-area schools duking it out for the 2014 Division I State Championship, this was a year to remember for high school football.
When the season started, there were questions about whether or not Hamilton was still the team to beat in Division 1 Football. After reaching its seventh straight High School State High School Championship, it is safe to say that the Huskies can never be taken lightly.
However unfinished business is fueling Chandler through its best season in the school’s history. It lost only a single game all season—to the reigning state champions—while also slaying its rival and rolling out one of the most impressive records in school history. All that is left is that elusive state championship. Other teams in the area have goals and quandaries of their own. The Basha Bears began the season asking, “How can we replace Zach Werlinger?” Now they are wondering, “How high can sophomore quarterback Ryan Kelley support the Bears going forward?”
The Perry Pumas were simply focused on meeting one goal: making it to the Division I playoffs, because from there they could go anywhere. This year, no team seemed to be more destined for a state championship game than the Seton Catholic Sentinels, but things don’t always work out.
A brief recap of each team’s final moments this season will bring you up to speed.
Seth Cox is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. He can be reached at news@santansun.com.
Basha Bears
The Bears had already secured a playoff spot coming into their final regular season game, but they still came out swinging, beating Gilbert High School 42-21.
Ryan Kelley threw for 388 yards and two touchdowns—one to fellow sophomore Hunter Rison, who finished with 161 yards and a touchdown, and one to junior Hunter Dean-Gibson. The Bears dominated on the ground as well, rushing for 167 yards and four touchdowns, led by Zack Reed’s 87 yards and three touchdowns.
Defensively the Bears frustrated the Tigers all night, recording seven sacks—two each for Zac Archer and Anthony Personale, and one each for J.D. Alexander, Ben Lebaron and Alex Rotteveel. Senior defensive back Joe Storm added an interception, as the Bears’ smothering defense made life hard for Gilbert.
Heading into the playoffs, the Bears secured the seventh seed in Division I, finishing the regular season with a 6-4 record and hosting a firstround playoff game against 10th-seeded Sandra Day O’Connor Eagles.
Things did not start well for the Bears in their first round tilt, as Sandra Day O’Connor jumped out to a quick 14-0 lead, thanks to some suspect defense and a Bears fumble, but the Bears came back quickly.
Kelley engineered back-to-back scoring drives, capped by touchdown runs by Reed and Alexander, as the Bears pulled even in the second quarter, 1414. However, the scoring was far from over.
Another long drive for Sandra Day would give
the Eagles a 20-14 lead that Basha cut to 20-17 after a Cade Thompson field goal.
Coming into the second half, the Bears leaned on their young quarterback, and Kelley responded. On the opening drive, Kelley found Dean-Gibson for a 59-yard touchdown. The Bears carried the lead shortly at 24-20, before the Eagles answered again, pulling out in front with a three-point lead.
The play of the game for the Bears came from senior defensive back Joe Storm, who intercepted an Eagles pass and returned it for a touchdown, allowing the Bears to take another lead, this time 31-27.
Although the Bears fell behind again with only minutes to go, they drove down the field to set up a Kendall Griffin touchdown run with only 20 seconds left. The Bears advanced to the state quarterfinals for the second consecutive year to play rival Chandler High School.
However, the Chandler Wolves demolished them 55-0, bringing about a bitter end to an otherwise strong season for the Bears. With a young team returning many key starters for 2015, Basha is expected to make another run at the postseason.
Basha High School
Head coach: Gerald Todd
5990 S. Val Vista Dr., Chandler www.bashabearsfootball.com
2014 record: 7-5
Hamilton Huskies
In week 10, the Huskies took on the Perry Pumas and rolled to a 55-24 victory. Quarterback James Sosinski threw for 264 yards and two touchdowns while backup Travis Lockhart threw for 70 yards and two touchdowns as well.
Ari Johnson ran for 140 yards and two touchdowns, while Ernesto Mauricio and Sosinski both rushed for a touchdown. Brandon Krcilek, Kaleb Pitts, Chip Hanson and Luc Gauthier each caught touchdown passes as the Huskies’ offense pummeled the Pumas.
Defensively the Huskies put up a ferocious pass rush with Caleb Peart getting two sacks, and David Desilva, Bernard White and Jaquan Mayberry each getting one.
Mayberry was outstanding, recording a sack, intercepting a pass and finishing with seven tackles on the night including two tackles for loss.
In the first round of the playoffs, the Huskies triumphed over Valley Vista High School, pulling most of its starters before the first half ended, in a 52-15 win.
Sosinski completed nine passes for 156 yards and two touchdowns, while backup Lockhart took the bulk of the snaps, throwing for 155 yards and a touchdown. Hamilton also ran for 259 yards and four touchdowns in the game as the Huskies offense piled up 573 total yards, led by Kyeler Burke who scored three touchdowns.
Defensively, the Huskies again controlled the game, as Garrett Rand recorded two sacks. In the second round of the playoffs, the Huskies had their most difficult test since their loss to Chandler in week six, as they squeaked by the Skyline
Coyotes 21-14.
Johnson led the offense, running the ball 20 times for 151 yards and a touchdown. Sosinski and Lockhart threw for only two touchdowns, both to Burke.
It was the Hamilton defense that saved the day, though, as they held the normally potent Skyline rushing attack to only 86 yards.
The win gave the Huskies a trip to another state semifinal and a matchup against the Brophy Broncos, who had not lost since week three. Again, it was the Hamilton defense that made the difference in the game.
The scoring started with Morris Kroma returning a punt 72 yards for a touchdown, but the Hamilton offense was not able to gain much momentum, as the score was tied, 7-7, at halftime.
Hamilton came out strong in the second half and made a statement on its first drive, going down the field and scoring to take a 14-7 lead on a Sosinski touchdown pass to Ian Anderson.
Hamiltons Braxton Baniszewski intercepted a pass and Johnson scored a touchdown from 19 yards out to give the Huskies a 21-7 lead.
Hamilton would win 24-7, propelling it to its seventh consecutive state title game, this one, against rival Chandler High School.
Hamilton High School
Head coach: Steve Belles
3700 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler www.hamiltonhuskies.com
2014 record: 12-1
Perry Pumas
Perry went into week 10 to take on Division I’s number one seed, the Hamilton Huskies, where the Pumas fought valiantly, but fell short 55-24. Quarterback Austin Nightingale threw for a touchdown to Anthony Sheffield and ran for two more, while senior running back Luke Gumm scored his first touchdown of the season on a one-yard run. Defensively, junior Derek Wahlin got a sack and senior Alec Monte had an interception, while Case Hatch led the team with 11 tackles. It wasn’t enough against the top-ranked Huskies, though. Despite the loss, the Pumas still made the playoffs for the first time at the Division I level. Unfortunately things did not get better in the playoffs against the fourthseeded Brophy Broncos, and the Pumas were shut out 45-0.
While the Pumas struggled, it was a nice step for the team and its seniors, many of whom make up the core of its offense. The playoff berth showed that things are looking up for coach Preston Jones and his program. The biggest question the Pumas face now is how to replace Austin Nightingale, who leaves as Perry’s all-time leader in passing yards, rushing yards and rushing touchdowns.
Perry High School
Head coach: Preston Jones
1919 E. Queen Creek Rd., Gilbert www.phsfb.com
2014 record: 5-6
Seton Sentinels
The Sentinels’ 10th game saw the team roll to another big victory, shutting out an opponent for the fourth straight game: 61-0 over Rio Rico High School.
Quarterback Zach Wade threw four touchdown passes to three receivers—two to sophomore Jacob Terrill, and one each to Antonio Campanella and George Wolter.
It was the Sentinels’ running game that did most of the damage, as Seton ran for 269 yards and four touchdowns—one each from Campanella, Matthew Bresnahan, Brandon Garcia and sophomore Forest Sweet.
The Sentinels’ defense smothered Rio Rico, as Garrett Boyd and Stephen Fugger each recorded sacks, while Brandon King and Patrick Larsen each recorded seven tackles.
Heading into the playoffs the Sentinels looked unstoppable, and through the first two rounds, they were.
In round one, top-seeded Seton Catholic took on 16th-seeded Page High School and the Sentinels continued their march of perfection, posting another impressive shutout in their 70-0 win.
Wade threw two touchdowns and ran for one, and backup junior quarterback Garrett Boyd threw one as well. Terrill was the primary weapon of the passing attack, catching six passes for 138 yards and a touchdown, while George Wolter and Garcia each caught a touchdown pass.
Campanella ran the ball only six times, but gained 116 yards and had three touchdowns, while Matthew Bresnahan scored two more.
Defensively, it was another day at the office for the Sentinels, shutting down all of Page’s attempts. Senior Zach Fulmer even recovered a fumble and returned it for a touchdown.
The shutout streak ended in the second round of the playoffs, but the Sentinels’ dominance did not, as Seton bounced eighth-seed Winslow 69-19 and got off to an incredible start, opening up with 35 first quarter points, before cruising to a 56-6 halftime lead and putting in mostly backups to finish the game.
Wade performed well, yet again, throwing for 250 yards and five touchdowns while Boyd threw two passes and completed one for a 29-yard touchdown.
Garcia was the hot receiver of the week, catching four passes for 110 yards and three touchdowns, while Wolter, Luke Zuluaga and Ryan Trilk each caught a touchdown pass. Antonio Campanella ran for 158 yards and two touchdowns, while Matthew Bresnahan ran for 108 yards and touchdown, allowing Sentinels’ offense to again roll over the competition.
Bresnahan and Larsen each intercepted a pass on defense, while Zuluaga got a sack. The Sentinel defense continued to dominate its opponents, even if it finally allowed points for the first time in five games.
This victory set up a showdown with fourth-seed Snowflake in the Division IV state semifinals, and a rematch of the closest game the Sentinels played all season, a 23-14 victory in week two.
Unfortunately for the Sentinels, this game was different. The Snowflake Lobos shut down the Sentinels’ rushing attack, holding Campanella to only 42 yards rushing, and they kept the ball out of Seton’s hands for much of the night with a powerful running game of their own.
The Sentinels fought behind Wade’s 365 yards passing and three touchdowns, but two interceptions and the game-long struggle to stop the Lobos’ dominating, clock-churning rushing attack ultimately led to a season-ending loss.
It was a bitter way to end what was one of the most dominating regular seasons in Arizona high school football history, but the Sentinels have a load of talent ready for 2015.
Seton Catholic Preparatory High School
Head coach: Rex Bowser 1150 N. Dobson Rd., Chandler www.setoncatholic.org 2014 record: 12-1
Chandler Wolves
Week 10 was another instance of a slow start leading to a blowout win for the Chandler Wolves in their 49-21 victory over Highland High School.
Quarterback Bryce Perkins was unstoppable after the first quarter, throwing for 350 yards and six touchdowns and rushing for 48 yards. Chase Lucas ran for 102 yards and a touchdown as well, but it was Perkins and the Wolves’ passing attack that dominated the Hawks.
Perkins found five different players through the air for touchdowns, including a big game from Justin Jan, who finished with 116 yards and two touchdowns. Defensively, the Wolves flustered the Hawks’ passing game and did enough against the state’s top rusher Josh Chadwick to control the game and get the big win.
In round one of the playoffs, the No. 2-seeded
HAMILTON:
Aug. 22at O'Connor 43-7 (w)
Sept. 5at Brophy Prep 41-6 (w)
Sept. 12at Pinnacle 37-35 (w)
Sept. 19Liberty ★ 21-0 (w)
Sept. 26Mountain Pointe 30-10 (w)
Oct. 2Chandler 56-24 (l)
Oct.10Basha 42-25 (w)
Oct. 17Gilbert 49-7 (w)
Oct.24Highland 46-7 (w)
Oct. 31Perry 55-24 (w)
Homecoming = ★
Wolves took on Red Mountain High School. The Wolves sprinted out to a 34-14 halftime lead before wrapping up with the 54-14 victory.
Perkins was masterful, throwing for 267 yards and four touchdowns, while the Chandler running game controlled the ball and the game for much of the second half, as the Wolves dominated Red Mountain.
The Wolves’ defense completely shut down the Red Mountain offense behind a ferocious pass rush, registering six sacks, intercepting a pass and recovering a fumble, giving the offense a continual short field to work with.
In the second round of the playoffs, the Wolves took the Basha Bears, and again flexed their collective muscle, walloping the Bears with a 55-0.
This game was all about Lucas, the Wolves’ rushing attack and another dominating defensive effort.
Lucas ran the ball 17 times for 144 yards and four touchdowns, while Perkins chipped in 91 yards rushing and a touchdown to go along with his 131 yards passing and a touchdown pass to N’Keal Harry.
The win catapulted Chandler to a rematch against Mountain Pointe, its lone loss of the season, and a chance to make it to its first state championship.
Chandler started off quickly, as Perkins found Justin Jan for a 46-yard touchdown pass to open up an early 7-0 lead, but the Wolves were just getting started.
They scored on their next possession as well, getting a 5-yard touchdown run from Kolby Taylor to go up 14-0 before getting another long touchdown throw from Perkins, this time to Harry, giving the Wolves a 21-0 lead.
Mountain Pointe fought back and cut the Wolves’ lead to 21-15, before Anfernee Hale slammed the door shut, intercepting a Mountain Pointe pass and returning it 89 yards for a touchdown.
The Pride cut the Wolves’ lead down to 28-22, but the fourth quarter and the final result were never in doubt. Perkins found Jan for a 5-yard touchdown pass and Lucas put the final nail in the defending champ’s coffin with a 23-yard touchdown run, as the Wolves rolled to a 43-22 victory.
Chandler High School
Head coach: Shaun Aguano
350 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler www.chandlerwolvesfootball.com
2014 record: 12-1
HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
SETON:
Aug. 21Globe (scrimmage, score N/A)
Aug. 29Estrella Foothills 35-24 (w)
Sept. 5at Maricopa 59-27 (w)
Sept. 12at Snowflake 23-14 (w)
Sept. 19Cortez 55-0 (w)
Sept. 26at Coronado 61-0 (w)
Oct. 3Florence ★ 48-7 (w)
Oct. 10Coolidge 44-0 (w)
Oct. 17Combs 55-0 (w)
Oct. 24Chino Valley 73-0 (w)
Oct. 31Rio Rico61-0 (w)
CHANDLER:
Aug. 29at Centennial 28-24 (w)
Sept. 5Buena 56-10 (w)
Sept. 12at Valor Christian 22-7 (w)
Sept. 19at Mountain Pointe 20-7 (l)
Sept. 26Cesar Chavez ★ 49-6 (w)
Oct. 2Hamilton 56-24 (w)
Oct. 10Gilbert 56-14 (w)
Oct. 17Perry 56-21 (w)
Oct. 24Basha 55-10 (w)
Oct. 31Highland 49-21 (w)
HIGH TECH TEETH
PERRY:
Aug. 29Sunnyside 53-18 (w)
Sept. 5at O’Connor 14-13 (l)
Sept. 12Gila Ridge ★ 20-6 (w)
Sept. 19Mountain View 16-14 (l)
Sept. 26Mountain Ridge 28-14 (w)
Oct. 2Basha 28-11 (l)
Oct. 10Highland 34-27 (w)
Oct. 17Chandler 56-21 (l)
Oct. 24Gilbert 31-20 (w)
Oct. 31at Hamilton 55-24 (l)
BASHA:
Aug. 29at Desert Vista 31-23 (w)
Sept. 5Centennial ★ 31-21 (w)
Sept. 12at Cesar Chavez 55-12 (w)
Sept. 19at Pinnacle 45-35 (l)
Sept. 25at Westview 45-35 (l)
Oct. 2Perry 28-11 (w)
Oct. 10Hamilton 42-25 (w)
Oct. 17Highland 48-31 (w)
Oct. 24Chandler 55-10 (l)
Oct. 31at Gilbert 42-21 (w)
Girls rock careers at Chandler code club
By Joan Westlake
The students in Chandler’s Girls Who Code Club are creating computer games on this last Monday in November. “Exciting” is how everyone from the youngest student to even the Intel adviser describes the activity. You can feel the fun in the room, which is filled with 20 students taking part in a fiveand-a half-month, free weekly class in the Downtown Library.
“We have had enthusiastic support in the Chandler community for our first coding class through Girls Who Code, a national nonprofit organization that works to inspire, educate and equip girls with the computing skills to pursue opportunities in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math,” says Kris Sherman, Chandler Public Library, assistant library manager.
“Digital literacy skills are becoming more and more important for success in the 21st century job market,” Sherman continues. “Chandler Public Library wants to provide an environment for people to move beyond a passive relationship with technology. With coding, you are creating your own tools. Websites, apps, animations, programs and games are among the real world applications of learning computing skills.”
Pam Armstrong, library information specialist, says that the 20 seats in the class were taken the first week it was announced with the 10 on the waiting list quickly filled. Based on the response, she says the library is looking at providing more coding class opportuni-
ties including for boys.
The underlying goal of the Girls Who Code project is to close an increasing gender gap in the computer sciences. One of the volunteer instructors, Maribel Hudson—a tool developer and supporter at Intel who grew up in Chandler—points out that exposure to coding and confidence in what they can do will help the girls later when they may be one of the few females in their computer class or department. Those women who are extroverts usually do well, but often introverts, even those who would be successful in a coding career, drop out for lack of confidence or comfort in the environment.
Hudson teaches the class with Pooja Agawane, an Intel graphic-software engineer. They found the project on Intel’s monthly newsletter of volunteer opportunities for its employees.
“The girls here are finding out you don’t have to be the very best in math or the very brightest. You need to be a hard worker and to persevere to code,” Hudson asserts.
She adds that through teaching, she has discovered that girls have different approaches to coding. Some catch on immediately and want to know in-depth information about the actual coding process, while others focus on what they want to create and coding is a just a way to achieve that.
“Both of those approaches make for a good development team,” Hudson says. “You want both working on a project.”
Taking part in the Girls Who Code
program, sisters Abby Ramer, 12, and Emma, 14, say they really enjoy the class. Their father, Dave, says it sounded as though it would be an interesting way to expand his daughters’ experiences and career options. A bonus has been interacting with them on a level where they explain to him some of the complex computer ideas they are learning.
Abby admits that when her parents suggested the class, she said “OK,” but with that tone every mother and father knows that communicates it is a reluctant chore. Now, Abby says she looks forward to the classes.
Emma says, “I was really for it right away. I love learning new things. I am taking Latin in school now because doing the unusual fascinates me. What we’ve been doing in class is really cool. I’d love to take more coding classes.”
As to whether classmates might consider this a nerdy thing to do, Emma explains that she has a wide range of friends who accept each other for whom they are.
“And, if there is someone who thinks I am too geeky, I am good with that,” she says with a confidence air.
How important is coding? Funded by donors such as Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg and Google, the nonprofit www.Code.org has launched a campaign to introduce American schoolchildren to coding and to redefine it as a basic skill to be learned alongside the three R’s.
Hudson points out that this is a 21st century career path that continues to be vital in the world of technology. There is not one cor-
poration that isn’t going to continue to need coders. Future innovations are created by programs and you need code to write those.
For students who are interested in learning about coding, Hudson suggests going online and trying Scratch, a version used by Girls Who Code. Developed at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Media Lab, it is an open-source programming platform where kids can code games and animation and then share projects and how-to tips. Go to http://scratch.mit.edu/help.
Joan Westlake is the Community section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at news@santansun.com.
GIRL FUN: Sisters Abby, left, and Emma Ramer say they are pretty excited by some of the activities in their Girls Who Code class. STSN photo by Joan Westlake
Matheny brings ‘The SnowCat’ to Chandler
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
A protégé of legendary trumpeter and flugelhornist Art Farmer, Chandler musician Dmitri Matheny said it’s important to persuade youngsters to listen to jazz. If he hadn’t indulged as a kid, he may not have moved on to be dubbed “one of the jazz world’s most talented horn players” or “unquestionably a master.”
Matheny is doing his part with “The SnowCat,” a heartwarming tale of a little girl’s search for her wandering white cat on a chilly afternoon. Each year, the musician and his friends bring “The SnowCat” to life in a series of performances for families, including 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Chandler Center for the Arts.
“I used to do these shows every Christmas, where we would take a children’s story like ‘Santa Claus’ or ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ or ‘The Grinch’ and set it to music,” Matheny says. “I did these in San Francisco just about every year for 10 years. They were pretty popular among kids and grandparents.”
But when lawyers asked him to license the characters, he created an original story.
“The SnowCat is based on an ancient Japanese parable about an ox herder, a little boy who goes looking for his lost ox,” says Matheny, who changed the story to a little girl and a cat.
The story explores a wide range of genres, including reggae, jazz, hip hop, funk and calypso.
“It’s really lively,” he says. “We’re able to keep the attention of the little kids.”
There are coloring books and plush toys to enhance
the experience. As vocalist Holly Pyle performs the songs, images and text from the book are being projected on the wall behind the musicians.
“It encourages literacy,” Matheny says. “Parents can read along with kids. While we’re performing, some of the people are sitting like a typical audience. Some are dancing, though, some are lying on the stage around us. It’s a wild time, man.”
Longtime goal
Born on Dec. 25, 1965, in Nashville, Matheny was raised in Georgia before his family moved to Tucson, where his father took a job as a teacher.
Attracted to his father’s collection of jazz and classical LP records, Matheny began piano lessons at age 5 and switched to the trumpet at age 9. While in his teens, he fell in love with the flugelhorn and left home to attend Michigan’s prestigious Interlochen Arts Academy and then Boston’s Berklee College of Music.
After private studies with Carmine Caruso in New York City, Matheny became the protégé of Farmer, a formative relationship that lasted over a decade, according to his bio.
With more than 60 recordings in his discography, Matheny said his latest album, “Sagebrush Rebellion,”
is his 10th as a leader.
“We’re able to do this for a living,” he said. “It’s nice to play music for people, travel around and make friends.”
Dmitri Matheny’s “The SnowCat” will be performed at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Tickets are $8 general admission. For more information, call (480) 782-2680 or visit www.chandlercenter.org.
Christina Fuoco-Karasinski is the executive editor of the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at christina@santansun.com.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY: Dmitri Matheny brings “The SnowCat” back to the Chandler Center for the Arts on Saturday, Dec. 13. Photo by Pat Johnson
