August 17 – September 6, 2013 www.SanTanSun.com
Chandler therapeutic program reaches special participants
BY TRACY HOUSE
The City of Chandler yearns to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities through its Therapeutic Recreation Program (TRP).
There are no requirements, however, for those with developmental or physical disabilities to participate in classes, Special Olympics sports and special event outings, says TRP recreation coordinator Collette Prather.
“There are a wide variety of disabilities and a wide variety of functioning levels, but anyone is welcome,” she says.
The mission behind the TRP is to “enhance the quality of life for individuals with physical, mental, emotional or social limitations.” Prather says the programs usually have a 1-to-5 or greater ratio.
“Mostly our programs are pretty open, unless we need a maximum, like our swim program. We’re limited more by space just like any other program would be,” she says.
Football, bowling, softball, swimming, crafts, floor hockey, golf, scrapbooking, activities around the Valley, dances and therapeutic horseback riding are just a few of the ongoing or upcoming events through the TRP.
Participants at TRP are typically part of a sheltered workshop or special education classes. They can also have
FLAG FOOTBALL: Just one of the many activities offered through the Therapeutic Recreation Program. Submitted photo
a mental and/or physical disability that limits them from participating in regular recreation.
The ages of participants vary but, Prather says, Special Olympics sports start at age 6 while classes offered generally begin at age 12, depending on the class. Special events, outings and social events start at age 16.
“We find that the younger kids are
Chandler Little League finds hope in loss in California
BY MEGHAN MCCOY
Although the Chandler National South All-Star Team did not advance to the Little League World Series, memories were created on a nationwide scale that will last a lifetime for the 13 young boys.
“In the grand scheme of things, we did fantastic,” Coach Ty Garrison says. “We got to the regional semifinals.”
Unfortunately, the team lost to Belmont-Redwood Shores of Northern California 8-1 in a game on Fri., Aug. 9, in San Bernardino, CA, that was televised on ESPN. However, Garrison explains that the team was very proud of what it had
accomplished.
“It was a great experience for the boys and families,” he says. “They were happy to represent Chandler and the state of Arizona.”
The boys were chosen for team on June 15. Garrison says that task is incredibly difficult, especially when there is a league like the Chandler National Little League.
“When you have that many good players it is difficult,” he says. “We really focused on positions...strong young men at certain positions.”
Over a two-month period, the boys had only three or four days off from practice, which was deemed successful.
Cardinals’ Campbell to host fundraiser in Chandler
BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
Arizona Cardinals defensive end Calais Campbell grew up with aspirations of becoming a football player. Since the 6-foot, 8-inch 290-pound Denver native realized his dream, he has been fervently giving back to the community.
The 2008 draftee will celebrate his 27th birthday at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar, 905 N. 54th St., Chandler, on Labor Day, Mon., Sept. 2, with all proceeds going to the CRC Foundation, Campbell’s nonprofit that seeks to empower and provide selfawareness for children.
“This is the third annual event,” Campbell says. “It’s pretty cool. I started the foundation in honor of my dad to help underprivileged kids learn life skills that they can’t get in the classroom and really help them when it comes to figuring out what they want to do.
“We also provide a scholarship for kids—one scholarship a year for kids coming from big families.”
The intimate evening will include entertainment, food, celebrity athletes, networking and fundraising support of the CRC Foundation. Campbell’s Cardinals teammates will be dining
ALL STARS: The Chandler National South All-Star Team, comprised of 13 little league players, receive a pep talk during the regional semi-finals in San Bernardino, CA. Submitted photo
Chandler National Little League President Doug Brewster says it won districts and went straight to the state tournament. Once it won the tournament, it headed to the Western regionals.
alongside guests. The celebration dinner and fundraiser will also include a silent and live auction and will carry a casino night theme.
“It’s really important to give back to the community,” he says. “I’m very, very blessed with the ability to play a sport for a living and become a role model, naturally. I’m put in a position where it’s only natural that I want to give back and help all the kids in the world who need some guidance and direction.”
photos on page
HOSTING FUNDRAISER: Arizona Cardinals’ defensive end Calais Campbell is having his third annual birthday party in Chandler on Labor Day. Submitted photo
SEE CALAIS CAMPBELL PAGE 6
MODEL BEHAVIOR: Chelcie Begay from Mesa and Alexus Shorter from Phoenix posing for the Mr. Fun Booth
Photobooth. STSN photo by Tiera Allen
Dr. Scott Asay, Chiropractic Physician
Troy Babel, Physical Therapist
Dr. Michael Voisin, Chiropractic Physician
Dr John McDonald, Chiropractic Physician/GM
SRP town hall meeting attracts hundreds
BY ALISON STANTON
Recently, a group of residents in the Germann Road area of south Chandler organized a town hall meeting to discuss Salt River Project’s (SRP) proposed plans for the upcoming Price Road Corridor 230kV Project.
Elska Watts, who lives in Arden Park, says that she and the others who planned the event were pleasantly surprised when more than 700 residents and local business owners arrived for the meeting on Aug. 1 at Tri-City Baptist Church.
“People had trouble finding parking and were actually standing outside of the sanctuary watching the presentations,” she says.
“The audience was so quiet and listened to every word of the presenters; you could tell they really cared about the issue.”
Kristina Weber, who resides in Germann Country Estates, says the town hall included presentations by residents and members of the local and state government, including Chandler City Councilman Jeff Weninger and State Rep. J.D. Mesnard. Former Chandler Mayor Boyd Dunn gave the first presentation and served as moderator of the event.
“(Former) Mayor Dunn gave everyone a brief history of the situation and brought the audience up to speed on the issue,” Weber says.
“He also made a powerful comment that Germann Road has already taken the burden of helping with power needs
CONCERNED CITIZENS: More than 700 residents and business owners in the Germann Road area recently attended a town hall meeting to learn more about SRP’s proposed plan that involves putting power lines through their neighborhood. Submitted photo
by agreeing to have the 69kV lines going down its street, and it is now someone else’s turn to take on the remainder of this power burden.”
Neil Jacques, a Germann Country Estates resident, discussed with the audience what the local residents’ plans are regarding the proposed project, and how anyone who is interested can help.
The meeting concluded with Dunn leading a question-and-answer session with residents.
“Overall, our presentation consisted of getting the point across that we believe it is unprecedented that SRP is trying to put these lines down an established, fully developed street,” Watts says, adding that Germann Road is filled with schools, day cares, neighborhoods and churches.
“We wanted the residents and business owners to know that these poles don’t belong on the Germann route, and there
are things we can do to make sure they don’t go up on our street.”
Weber says she, Watts and other area residents plan to continue to inform people about the proposed route on Germann Road.
“I still feel that there are several communities that are in the dark on this, and we need to catch them up to speed,” Weber says.
“We will continue to spread our message that Germann Road should be the last choice for these power lines due to its unique, established community.”
Alison Stanton is a freelance writer who lives in the East Valley. She can be reached at Alison@SanTanSun.com.
To read Arden Park resident Elska Watts’ take on the proposed plans, see Page 43
When the boys won the final game to go to the regionals, they received a patch of the Arizona state flag, which they affixed to their sleeves.
The first game of the regionals was played on Fri., Aug. 2, when Northern California beat Chandler National South 8-0. The team then played Utah the following day and won 11-7. On Tue., Aug. 6, Nevada beat Chandler National South 7-0 and the following day they beat Hawaii 5-3.
While the boys were at the regional games, they lived in dorms with all of the other state teams that competed in the regionals. It had the opportunity to mingle with baseball players from Hawaii, California and Alaska.
“They are all smiles,” Brewster says.
The loss to Northern California on Aug. 9 took the team out of the running to play in the Little League World Series in Williamsport, PA.
“It was an emotional night,” says Garrison, adding that it is the last time the players would compete as a team.
“Twelve-year-olds are resilient, their baseball careers are certainly not over,” he says.
Brewster explains that this year was the fourth time the Chandler National Little League made it to the Western regionals. He says it has made it to the Little League World Series twice—once in 2003 and the second time in 2007.
“The families and boys grew close together,” Garrison says. “It was once-in-alifetime experience for all of us. We had a lot of fun.”
Meghan McCoy is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at news@santansun.com.
In keeping with the increased interest in aviation following the release of “Planes,” a computer-animated film produced by DisneyToon Studios, officials at Chandler Municipal Airport (CHD) extend an invitation to the public to visit one of the nation’s busiest general aviation airports.
“CHD is a great place for enthusiasts to see their favorite airplanes in action,” says an airport spokesperson. “CHD averages more than 500 operations day, so visitors rarely have long to wait before viewing a helicopter or plane in the air.”
The airport is a secure facility, but has created a map of viewing locations, including a small picnic area just outside the fence, and on the property at Hangar Café, which also offers a second-floor observation deck. The restaurant, a hangout for pilots, is open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the airport property at 1725 E. Ryan Rd., Chandler. For the most activity, airport officials recommend the early morning hours when temperatures are cooler.
In addition, the City of Chandler is offering “MuniciPals” coloring sheets for download on its website. For a MuniciPals coloring sheet and a copy of the airplane viewing map, visit chandleraz.gov/airport.
A workshop on “green” plumbing is being led by John Smith, green plumber of the year, during the Chandler’s fall lineup of landscaping and irrigation classes.
Winner of the U.S. Green Plumber of the Year Award two years in a row and the Southwest Region Green Plumber of the Year Award in 2013, Smith will share information on green plumbing technologies and techniques that save water.
Smith’s presentation, along with the “Water Wise Edible Gardening” workshop, are among a series of informative classes that teaches homeowners how to install and maintain residential landscape and irrigation systems, plant colorful waterwise plants and save water inside the home.
Classes will be held at Chandler City Hall, 175 N. Arizona Ave., and Chandler’s Downtown Library, 22 S. Delaware St., with the exception of two Chandler “Smart” Landscaping classes to be held in Chandler’s Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd.
Several workshops
Classes are:
“Basic Yard Makeovers,” 6:30 to 8:45 p.m., Tue., Aug 27, Chandler Downtown Library. Learn easy step-by-step methods to convert turf yards into colorful lowwater use landscape. Rebates of up to $3,000 available.
“Chandler SMART Landscaping,” 9 a.m. to noon, Sat., Sept. 14 and Sat., Sept. 21 at Chandler’s Environmental Education Center and again Sat., Oct. 5 and Sat., Oct. 12 at Chandler City Hall. This two-class series teaches the basics of landscaping in the desert, including concepts of design, the desert plant palette, plant selection, plant combinations and how to plan for small spaces.
LANDSCAPE WORKSHOP: Trees and shrubs are the most important living elements of a landscape. A certified arborist will discuss proper plant selection, planting, staking and pruning techniques for the low desert during “Pruning and Maintaining Your Landscape,” Tue., Sept. 24 at the Chandler Main Library. Submitted photo
“Green Plumbing Solutions,” 6:30 to 8 p.m., Tue., Sept. 17, Chandler Downtown Library. Learn how to make changes that really make a difference with Smith, the green plumber of the year, as he talks about water conservation. Learn helpful hints to help save water. He will also be giving away a toilet that flushes on less than a gallon of water.
“Water-Wise Edible Gardening,” 6:30 to 8:45 p.m., Tue., Sept. 10, Chandler Downtown Library. Learn how to prepare beds, choose plants and care for vegetables, herbs, fruits and citrus for a bountiful harvest.
“Pruning and Maintaining Your Landscape,” 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. Tue., Sept. 24 at Chandler Downtown Library. Trees and shrubs are the most important living
elements of a landscape. A certified arborist will discuss proper plant selection, planting, staking and pruning techniques for the low desert.
“Water-Smart Workshops.” Four classes are offered from 6 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. at Chandler City Hall: “Sprinkler Design & Installation,” Thu., Oct. 10; “Drip Irrigation Installation,” Thu., Oct. 17; “Yard Watering & Timer Programming,” Thu., Oct. 24; and “‘Smart’ Irrigation Controllers,” Thu., Nov. 7. Classes are free to Chandler utility customers, but participants must preregister by calling 480-782-3580 or visiting chandleraz.gov/water.
generally a little busier with therapy and other programs and things after school so their need for participation isn’t quite as high,” Prather explains.
“But as they get older, they graduate out of those programs. They want a little more interaction in the community, so there’s a little greater participation level.”
Prather mentions anyone older than 16 can participate in the programs.
“We actually have someone as old as 72 years old. There’s no upper age limit.”
Caregivers are welcome to stay with participants, but they must pay any fees associated with the activities. Most of the programs are held at the Chandler Senior Center but, Prather says, they also use community sites such as schools for practices and the Chandler Community Center.
The TRP office is located in the Chandler Senior Center, 202 E. Boston Rd., Chandler. For more information about the program, volunteer opportunities or events, contact Collette Prather at 480-782-2709, collette.prather@chandleraz.gov or visit the Therapeutic Recreation Program website at chandleraz.gov/ therapeutic. Information is also available in Chandler’s Break Time.
Tracy House is a freelance writer living in Ironwood Vistas with her husband and four children. She can be reached at Tracy@SanTanSun.com.
The Living Room
— 5th Course —
2007 Gentleman’s Port
Assorted cheeses & chocolate fondue
He says it is inspirational to meet children and to help mold their young minds.
“When I was a kid, I met a couple football players,” Campbell says. “I was in shock and awe because that’s where I wanted to be.
“For me, I know that one moment can affect a kid’s life. For me, it’s one simple moment, but if I talk to a kid and it influences him, he’s going to listen to me for the rest of his life, that one moment
is going to stick with him for the rest of his life.”
For the event, a limited amount of tickets are available for $200 and can be purchased online at thecrcfoundation. org. The phone number for Fleming’s is 480 940-1900. All tickets purchased are tax-deductible; the cost of tickets will increase to $250 after Aug. 26.
“We try to keep it affordable, but it’s as high as it is because we want to help a lot of kids,” Campbell says. “We’re trying to raise money to be able to provide more scholarships. We have a back-toschool program that we’re starting this fall that costs a little bit of money to run.”
Established in 2010, the CRC Foundation teaches accounting, budgeting, drug and alcohol awareness, cooking, diversity awareness and writing. On Sept. 9, the CRC Foundation will launch Right Track, an after-school program at the Black Family and Child Services center to provide daily tutoring to 60 students. The CRC Foundation also provides college scholarships for students from families with five or more children.
Right now, Campbell is focusing on preseason games as well as training camp. The home preseason begins Sat., Aug. 17, with a game against the Dallas Cowboys at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale.
“Training camp’s never fun but it’s needed,” he says. “It’s time to perfect your craft and that’s what I’m doing.”
According to AZCardinals.com, Campbell’s offseason condition program
was comprised of doing CrossFit and mixed martial arts training. He also worked on endurance and balance. Campbell slimmed down in the offseason, which included the recruitment of a new coach, Bruce Arians, and a fresh-faced quarterback, Carson Palmer.
SEASON APPROACHING: Calais Campbell and the Arizona Cardinals begin their preseason at home on Sat., Aug. 17, with a game against the Dallas Cowboys. Submitted photo
GETTING IN SHAPE: Calais Campbell slimmed down in the offseason with a conditioning program that was comprised of CrossFit and mixed martial arts training. Submitted photo
“There’s a new vibe, new faces,” he says. “It’s a chance for us to get to know each other and become a team.”
Some of those teammates will be at Campbell’s fundraiser.
“Usually, I get a good turnout of 20 to 30 guys,” Campbell says. “It’s a good weekend because everybody’s usually pretty free. It’s just a good time.
“The way it works is there will be a few players at every table. So anybody can sit down and interact with actual Cardinal players. I get pretty big-name guys to come out and support me, too. That’ll be good for any true Cardinal fan, to come out and just hang out and talk to and pick the brains of their favorite Cardinal players. Me, I personally go around to every table and meet all the guests who come through.”
When he meets and greets guests, he primarily is asked the same question: What is it like to be a football player?
“It’s kind of cool to be able to answer that question,” he says. “But I am living the dream. All I wanted to do is play football. To do what I’m doing now is a dream come true.”
Christina Fuoco-Karasinski is the editor of the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at christina@santansun.com.
Community
Cheer on participants at 9/11 Heroes Run
More than 500 runners are expected to participate in the first 9/11 Heroes Run on Sat., Sept. 7, at Tempe Beach Park.
Start time is 8 a.m., with warm ups and patriotic pre-start ceremonies at 7:30 a.m. To register, visit www.travismanion.org or visit any Plant Fitness location. All proceeds benefit the Travis Manion Foundation and the 100 Club of Arizona.
Lt Col. Kevin Kelly, an active duty F-16C fighter pilot and Planet Fitness owner, felt compelled to bring the 9/11 Heroes Run to the Valley of the Sun for this first of many annual events.
Kelly served multiple combat tours in Iraq and is a friend of 1st Lt. Travis Manion’s family. Created in 2007 after the combat death of Manion in Fallujah, Iraq, the Travis Manion Foundation is committed to honoring the fallen by challenging the living. Its goal is to ensure the love of country and spirit of service exemplified by this generation of fallen heroes lives on. Learn more at www.TravisManion. com.
“I’m simply overwhelmed by the patriotism, service, and sacrifice of our military, first responders, and their families,” he says.
“The Travis Manion Foundation and 100 Club represent the best of America. Their commitment to our fallen heroes and their
Laugh for a good cause
families is awe inspiring. When the headlines fade, these two outstanding organizations stand like twin oaks in the lives of the departed. It’s truly humbling to be part of this team.”
Planet Fitness Regional Manager and 9/11 Heroes Run Race Director Jessica Rice also expresses her sentiments.
“When Kevin asked me to head the 9/11 Heroes Run—Tempe, I felt an equal amount of anxiety and appreciation,” she says.
“It has become a deep-rooted devotion for me as I learn about the gallant lives of those represented by this event. The recent tragedy in Yarnell and the magnitude of that loss to our firefighter community has made this year’s event even more poignant.”
A short video for the 9/11 Heroes Run can be viewed at the following link: http://www.youtube.com/user/ TMFoundation
The 9/11 Heroes Run has always been about honoring the fallen—from members of the military to fire, police, and first responders who give their lives in service to our country. But the annual 5K can also be part of the healing process, bringing together those who have lost a loved one and giving them a tangible way of remembering and honoring their service and sacrifice.
Proceeds from the 10th annual Laughter is the Best Medicine Gala go to Chandler and Mercy Gilbert medical centers, with laughter, illusion and magic on the menu. “An Evening at Le Cirque” is 5:30 p.m. Fri., Nov. 8 at Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa, 5594 W. Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler. For more information and to make reservations, call 480-728-3931 or visit laughterformedicine.org.
Learn about Chandler police operations
The 13-week Chandler Police Department Citizens Police Academy is being held 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays, from Aug. 28 to Nov. 20 at 250 E. Chicago St. The academy gives participants a look inside the day-to-day operations of the department and the guidelines under which police officers function.
Applications are now being accepted. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and work, live or attend school in the city of Chandler. Applicants also must pass a basic background check.
Instruction in procedures and theory is combined with practical, hands-on scenarios from officers in their fields. Students will be introduced to topics on media and the law, firearms training, gang awareness, patrol functions, K-9 functions, criminal investigations, school violence, traffic law and use of force.
Applications are available online at chandlerpd.com/community/ citizens-academy. For more information, call 480-782-4960.
City of Chandler Insider
Chandler Honor Guard supports other agencies in times of need
Serving on an honor guard—whether military, police or fire—requires a level of skill, discipline and commitment that most people are unable to match or unwilling to give. For many, it is a calling; a sense of duty to their colleagues and pride in their chosen profession, that leads them to serve in this role. Their commitment also extends beyond their own organizations, and they stand willing to support other fire departments whenever there is a need. For Chandler and other honor guards around the state, this was most evident
recently, after 19 members of the Granite Mountain Hotshots perished in the Yarnell Hill Fire. While members of the Prescott Fire Department processed their shock and grief, representatives from dozens of other fire departments stepped up to offer their support and begin the process of honoring the lost heroes.
On the evening of Sun., June 30, Chandler Firefighter Dan Morrow was notified that 19 firefighting brethren were lost earlier that day near Prescott.
As the commander of the Chandler Fire Department’s (CFD) Honor Guard, he started calling the other members of the unit and told them to get ready because they would be very busy in the coming days.
By 10 a.m. the next morning, the first CFD honor guard member, Gary Vicente, reported to the Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office and joined with representatives from every Valley fire department to begin preparations for the arrival of the 19 bodies of the fallen.
Over the next week, every member of the CFD Honor Guard served multiple shifts on watch duty, ensuring that their lost brothers were never alone.
On July 5, the Arizona Diamondbacks honored the Granite Mountain Hotshots and their families in a solemn ceremony at Chase Field. Morrow was in command of the detail that included 25 honor guard members and 46 pipers and drummers from departments across the state. Chandler was represented by three in
honor guard, three pipers and three drummers.
Two days later, Morrow was in Prescott assisting in the planning of the 19 funerals, a difficult task for all those involved. “Each funeral would be unique, and we had to stay focused to ensure many details and every family need was taken care of,”
Morrow says. “Every so often I would stop what I was doing, take a deep breath and look around the room at all the people who were helping. Photos of the faces of the 19 were on the wall, and they were a constant reminder of why everyone was working so hard. We had to honor those
the
BATTALION CHIEF: Brad Miller carries a ceremonial ax as a member of the Chandler Fire Department Honor Guard. Submitted photo
HONOR GUARD COMMANDER: Chandler Firefighter Dan Morrow, with a ceremonial Pike Pole, serves as commander of the department’s honor guard. Submitted photo
City of Chandler Insider
Chandler Fire Department unit honors heroes lost with precision, tradition
Tradition is powerful glue that can bind a family together. The men and women of the fire service are members of an extended “family” that in times of joy or sorrow are often comforted by the traditions that have been passed down through generations. One of those traditions, and an important piece of fire fighter culture, is the honor guard that provides full military-style honors to those heroes who have sacrificed so much.
Since the Chandler Fire Department (CFD) Honor Guard was established in the summer of 2001, the volunteer members have represented the department at dozens of ceremonies and special events, including those that honor fellow firefighters from other communities who have fallen in the line of duty.
With polish and precision, the honor guard members conduct a variety of traditional tasks, including escorting the flag, posting the colors, standing guard over the casket or urn of a fallen brother or sister during times of viewing, ringing the “Last Alarm” bell, serving as honorary pallbearers and performing the flag ceremony before internment and presenting it to the brother or sister’s next of kin.
“It’s a special privilege to serve
on the honor guard, and we take our responsibilities seriously,” says Firefighter Dan Morrow, who leads the department’s 10-member honor guard unit. “When a firefighter falls in the line of duty, when they make the ultimate sacrifice, we’re there to give them the proper respect they’ve earned. We may have never met them, never worked with them, but there is a bond that we share. It’s comforting to know that if any of us should fall, our fellow firefighters will come together to honor our service and comfort our families.”
There are nine active CFD Honor Guard members, including one female member. Any member of the department in good standing can apply to serve on the unit. The application process includes submitting an essay explaining why the firefighter wants to be a member. The final decision rests in the hands of Morrow, the unit’s commander, and Chandler Fire Chief Jeff Clark.
“The personnel who volunteer to be part of the honor guard are a unique breed,” Chief Clark says. “They often face the difficult task of staring widows and parentless kids in the eye without shedding a tear.” He adds, “That’s not because they don’t weep. They share
the pain and sense of loss that we all do. But they have the fortitude to stoically honor the fallen while compassionately looking after their loved ones who are left behind, and being a pillar of strength for everyone.”
Chief Clark praises the members of the Chandler unit. “They volunteer endless time, meet a high standard of professionalism and demand that no compensation be paid to them for their
PRESENTING THE COLORS: The Fire Department Honor Guard present the colors at the City’s 9-11 commemoration ceremony last year. From left, presenting the American flag is Engineer Chad Goswick, and Capt. Allen Blain carries the Arizona flag. Submitted photo
guys.”
Morrow was also assigned as task force leader for the procession and airport sendoff for the three firefighters that would be flown back to their home states. Other Chandler Honor Guard members served on that and other Prescott funeral details. Their efforts were above and beyond their normal firefighter duties, and it was not unusual for members to complete a long day of service in Prescott, return to Chandler and begin their normal shift at their station.
Morrow is proud to lead such a dedicated group of men and women in Chandler. “We feel it’s our honor to be involved in memorial services for our fellow firefighters, to pay our respects,” Morrow says. “And that’s why we hold ourselves to a pretty high standard.”
Chandler Fire Department
Honor
Guard and Pipes & Drums
Pipers: Tommy Curran
Chad Goswick
Travis McBurney
Dan Morrow
Trig Broderick
Tom Dwiggins
Chad Goswick
Brad Miller
Dan Morrow
Brigid O’Neil
Russ Suprak
Gary Vicente
Pipe Major: Chris Broadley
Drummers:
Dan Goldstein
Bill Loughren
Rob Mcleod
Information provided by the City of Chandler Communications and Public Affairs Department.
City of Chandler Insider
honor guard activities. In the end, this is an outstanding group of selfless individuals who honor the firefighting profession and the men and women who serve.”
The camaraderie shared by firefighters is on display every year when a special memorial service is held at the Fallen Firefighter Memorial in Colorado Springs, Colo. Fire departments from around the United States and Canada send representatives to recognize and salute the heroism of the men and women who gave their lives so that others might live. The Chandler Fire Department sends at least one honor guard representative each year to carry the CFD flag in the ceremony.
“When a department loses a firefighter in the line of duty, there is a tradition to attach a black ribbon bearing his or her name to the top of the unit’s colors,” Morrow says. He recalled the powerful moment of seeing the flags from New York City, Boston, Los Angeles and other departments with long histories, and seeing their flags bearing so many black ribbons. “We are very fortunate that there are no black ribbons on the Chandler flag,” he adds.
For many ceremonies, the CFD Honor Guard is often accompanied by the department’s Pipes and Drums unit. The bagpipes have been associated with fire and police departments for more than 150 years, back to a time when Irish and Scottish immigrants took on the dangerous and dirty jobs no one else wanted, like being a firefighter. In the
Scottish tradition, the haunting sounds of the bagpipes were played at the funerals of fallen heroes.
Chandler’s Pipes and Drums were formed in 2007 and performed publicly for the first time in 2008. As with the honor guard, the members of the pipes and drums are dedicated volunteers within the department who participate in countless hours of music rehearsals, drills and ceremonial practice.
Together, the men and women serving on the Honor Guard and Pipes and Drums units project a positive image of the Chandler Fire Department within the community, Arizona, the nation and beyond.
HONOR GUARD: Fire Department Honor Guard members retreat after presenting the colors at the City’s 9-11 commemoration ceremony last year. From left, front, are Firefighter Gary Vicente, Firefighter Dan Morrow, and from left, back, are Engineer Chad Goswick and Capt. Allen Blain. Submitted photo
LAST ALARM: Fire Engineer Chad Goswick rings the “Last Alarm” bell during a memorial service. Submitted photo
First Transit and Union reach agreement for bus service
East Valley service is back on track
The bus strike is over with a tentative agreement reached between Valley Metro’s East Valley bus operator, First Transit, and the bus operators’ union, ATU 1433. The tentative three-year agreement defines labor wages, benefits and work rules for the more than 500 operators who serve 57,000 daily riders in Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa and Tempe.
In January, Valley Metro executed a contract with First Transit to serve as the operator of bus service originating from the Tempe and Mesa bus maintenance facilities. On July 1, First Transit became responsible for the operations of 40 local, express and circulator routes primarily serving the
East Valley. First Transit also supports an operations and maintenance staff of more than 700 and a bus fleet of 300.
In calendar year 2012, total ridership for the system was 72.5 million passengers, an increase of 3.8 percent over 2011. The first 20 miles of light rail opened December 2008. Six light rail extensions are planned or under construction that will create a 57-mile system by 2032. Valley Metro also offers transit options including commuter vanpools, online carpool matching, bus trip mapping, bicycle safety and telework assistance.
For more information, visit valleymetro. org.
Volunteers needed to help foster kids through CASA program
When foster children work their way through the system, their journey often includes court appearances. Adult volunteers from the SanTan Sun area are sought to become advocates to speak “for the best interests of abused and neglected children in the dependency court system.”
The Maricopa County Court Appointed Special Advocate Program or CASA is looking for those who can “be a voice for these children in court and the community” and help them maneuver through the array of educational systems to assist children in achieving academic success; ensure that the child’s medical needs, emotional needs, developmental
Apply for free exterior home painting
Low-income veterans, elderly or permanently disabled homeowners in the SanTan Sun area are invited to apply to have their one-story home’s exterior painted. Volunteers are also needed for the annual Rock & Roll Paint-A-Thon on Sat., Oct. 26. Application deadline is Sept. 1. To qualify, elderly, disabled or veteran applicants must own and live in the homes and provide proof of income. Rebuilding Together provides all paint, paint supplies, T-shirts—up to 20 per team—and insurance for the day to teams of volunteers and families, businesses, churches, schools, social service organizations and civic groups. Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age and those younger than 18 years need a signed parental permission
form. Teams should be between 15 and 25 volunteers.
More than 3,000 volunteers participate in the event, the largest community service project of the year coordinated by Rebuilding Together. Founded in 1991, the Phoenix chapter of Rebuilding Together has brought together more than 60,000 volunteers and more than 500 organizations for volunteer community service projects providing more than $7 million in repairs and modification services.
Information and applications for homeowners and volunteers are available by visiting rebuildingtogetherphx. org or calling 480-774-0236.
needs and permanency living plans are met; and, if working with older youth, place emphasis on the child’s preparation for higher education, emancipation and the development of durable life skills, according to the CASA website.
Volunteers must pass a background check, polygraph exam and participate in a 30-hour training course. A volunteer’s average time commitment to a case is about 15 hours per month.
One CASA volunteer describes it as “a most gratifying and rewarding experience.”
For details and an application form, visit www.superiorcourt.maricopa.gov/ casa/volunteerInformation.aspx.
‘Lunch & Learn’ focuses on strength training
A free “Lunch & Learn” for seniors is held from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sat., Aug. 24 at ActiveRx Active Aging Center, 10440 E. Riggs Rd., Suite #120, Sun Lakes.
The one-hour program aims to help seniors, their caregivers and healthcare professionals understand the benefits of strength therapy on seniors’ daily activities and the importance of strength training to regain lost muscle and maintain their mobility, agility and balance. A complimentary lunch and beverages will be served. Reservations are recommended.
Active Aging Center is at 10440 E. Riggs Rd., Suite #120 in Sun Lakes.
If you want to donate gently used designer handbags, shoes and clothing to your favorite charity, there’s an easier way. The Valley sisters behind My Sister’s Closet, My Sister’s Attic and Well Suited have launched Project Charity, which allows nonprofit groups to create an account at any 13 locations of Eco-Chic Consignments’ three high-end designer consignment concepts and ask for donations from their supporters without anyone having to reach into their pocketbooks.
Donors can then take their gently used apparel and home furnishings to any of the consignment locations and Eco-Chic Consignments will apply sales of the items to the specified organization’s account.
Most recently, accounts have been set up to benefit the Phoenix Art Museum, Fresh Start, Arizona Humane Society and Friends of Animal Care & Control.
“We recently mailed a $7,755.74 check to a local charity that encouraged their members to bring in clothing to My Sister’s Closet,” says sister Ann Siner. “We love helping our community and plan to support our charities for years to come.”
My Sister’s Closet sells designer clothing, handbags, shoes, hats, jewelry and accessories. Items should be clean, pressed and generally look new. Clothing is accepted seasonally. An appointment is not needed to drop off something.
Project Charity can also coordinate and handle picking up larger donations, including furniture from an estate sale.
My Sister’s Closet is located at 2915 S. Alma School Rd. in Chandler in the Las Tiendas shopping area. My Sister’s Attic is located at 4955 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler in Fulton Promenade. Hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
To set up a Project Charity account, email info@mysisterscloset.com or visit any location and the store manager will provide assistance.
For more information and a complete list of My Sister’s Closet and Well Suited locations, visit mysisterscloset.com.
This year marks the one-year anniversary that the Hill sisters, Ashley and Brittany, have been working on a book highlighting the American legends and pioneers who have shaped the landscape of America.
Known as “The Jeep Girls,” the Hills recently caught up with Dr. Howard K. Conley and his wife, Hazel. Ashley was the recipient of the scholarship named for Conley, who served the Chandler Unified School District for 23 years in three different positions.
“It is amazing that most of the schools in the Chandler area are named after these icons that live right here in the Valley. It is an honor to be able to share stories with these amazing people,” Ashley says.
“We made a trek back home, and Dr. Conley was the first one we called,” adds Brittany. “We wanted to thank him for the encouragement we’ve received along the way.”
The Hill sisters moved to Chandler almost 10 years ago. As a transfer student to Hamilton High School from Chicago, Ashley was involved in student council with teacher Marsha Coburn and television production with teacher Brad Hanna.
“The public education system provided so many real-world experiences, like being invited to work on the field as a production assistant with Fox Sports at both the BCS National Championship Game and the Fiesta Bowl,” Ashley says.
Hazel and Howard Conley with Ashley Hill. Submitted photo
Loss inspires family to establish Ryan Thomas Foundation
BY MEGHAN MCCOY
A family who lost one of its own to a drowning is continuing to raise awareness through an organization in the victim’s name, the Ryan Thomas Foundation.
Its fifth annual Ryan Thomas Memorial Golf Tournament will be held at Ocotillo Golf Resort, 3751 S. Clubhouse Dr., Chandler, on Sat., Sept. 14. Check-in will kick off at 12 p.m. and the shotgun start will begin at 1:30 p.m. Those interested in participating are encouraged to contact Thomas’ aunt, Shannon Liebrock, at 480993-5610.
“Last year we raised just under $19,000, this year we set our goal at $35,000,” Liebrock says.
The goal has just about doubled because the foundation is working with the Arizona Game and Fish Department to establish life jacket loaner stations at several lakes in Arizona. The program is tentatively scheduled to begin in May.
The loaner stations, she says, will be set up at the docks as a reminder for people to wear a life jacket before riding on a watercraft. Individuals will be able to borrow a life jacket for the day for free and return it when they are done.
The foundation began in January 2009 after 21-year-old Thomas drowned at Saguaro Lake on Oct. 4, 2008.
“Ryan was an experienced swimmer, very familiar with the water, (but he) ended up drowning 15 feet off the shore,” she says. “He wasn’t wearing a life vest.”
According to the Children’s Safety
Zone, there have been 31 deaths, nine of which were children, out of 92 waterrelated accidents in Maricopa and Pinal counties as of Aug. 8.
Liebrock recalls a few drownings that have happened in the area recently.
Former Major League Baseball player Frank Castillo, 44, was on a pontoon boat on Bartlett Lake when he decided to go for a swim and never resurfaced. In another instance, a 15-year-old girl
drowned at Lake Pleasant when she was trying to save her two siblings while her parents were setting up camp. The siblings were rescued.
With August designated as Drowning Prevention Month, Liebrock says it is important to raise awareness about water safety.
“Put on those life vests,” she urges. “Case after case, it would have made a difference.”
She says adults unfortunately become overconfident in the water and many times do not believe they need a life jacket.
“You never know what might happen,” Liebrock explains. “Anything can happen in the water. Put it on as precaution.”
Individuals should always know their surroundings when in any body of water, she says, adding that everyone should have a swimming buddy no matter how old they are.
The foundation decided to focus their efforts on drowning prevention because it provides the most impact with Thomas’ story; therefore touching many more lives.
So far they have been able to give $60,000 back to the community through drowning awareness campaigns. The foundation works with the Drowning Prevention Coalition of Arizona, Cardon Children’s Medical Center and Phoenix Children’s Hospital.
ALL IN THE FAMILY: Ryan Thomas, far right, who drowned in 2008, is pictured with his brothers, Jacob Thomas and Joshua Thomas. Submitted photo
BY FAMILY: Ryan Thomas, 21, drowned at Saguaro Lake on Oct. 4, 2008. To carry on his legacy, his family established the
“It’s therapy for our family,” Liebrock says. “Every year when we are able to give these gifts and donations, it is like he is still here. Ryan was such a generous kid. His name continues on. It’s one small thing we can do for him.”
Liebrock says she wants to emphasize that Thomas was an experienced swimmer and boater, but the tragedy still affects her family.
“I always tell people that, ‘Time doesn’t heal all wounds, it just moves to another place in your heart,’” she says. “Every time we hear these stories on the
August is Drowning Impact Awareness Month
Hot weather and the distraction of back-to-school increases the risk for child drownings, and a Chandler family was struck by tragedy this month when a 2-year-old girl drowned in a backyard pool.
The importance of noting that August is Drowning Impact Awareness Month is explained by watching a video at chandleraz. granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?clip_ id=371.
Also, visit preventdrownings. org/go, phoenixchildrens.com/ community/injury-preventioncenter/water-safety and chandleraz. gov/fire for more information about water safety and drowning prevention.
news your heart breaks again. You know what they (families) are going through. That is why we are fighting so hard to get the life jacket runner stations. We are really trying to make a difference to continue Ryan’s legacy of generosity and kindness.”
Meghan McCoy is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at news@santansun.com.
Traditional Neighborhood Academy enrolling
Applications are accepted for Chandler’s Traditional Neighborhood Academy, a free series of four weekly workshops that aims to assist traditional, non-HOA neighborhoods to become more sustainable and to identify and develop neighborhood community leaders.
All workshops are held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursdays Sept. 5 through 26 in Training Room A on the second floor of Chandler City Hall, 175 S. Arizona Ave., downtown Chandler. Enrollment deadline is Aug. 26; priority will be given to Chandler residents.
Sessions include “You and Your Neighborhood,” “Know Your City Resources,” “Neighborhood Leadership” and “Moving Forward with Your Neighbors.” Those who complete all four classes will receive a certificate of completion and will be recognized at a future Chandler City Council meeting.
To download an application, visit chandleraz.gov/neighborhoods. To register or learn more, contact the Neighborhood Programs Office at 480-782-4354.
DEADLINES FOR SANTAN SUN NEWS
The deadline for news and advertising is noon, Wed., Aug. 28 for the Sept. 7, 2013 issue of the SanTan Sun News.
All news must be submitted to News@SanTanSun.com by that day to be considered for the next issue or by filling in the “submit a news release” form on the newspaper’s website at SanTanSun.com. To send an item for consideration in the SanTan Family Fun, email it directly to STFF@SanTanSun. com.
Send advertising files and information to account reps or contact Ads@ SanTanSun.com. For deadline information, visit SanTanSun.com and click on “About us” and call 480-732-0250 for advertising rate details.
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Ryan Thomas Foundation. Submitted photo
