SanTan Sun 01-03-15: Community

The future looks bright for CHS’ Perkins

BY JIM GRIESHABER

Life is good for Chandler High School senior Bryce Perkins. Real good. The amicable student and talented quarterback just put an exclamation point on a storybook senior season.

Perkins, who comes from a family of college and professional football players, shattered several school passing records, including the all-time leader in passing yardage. He’s one of the most popular kids on campus in a school with more than 3,000 students. He carries a 3.6 grade point average and verbally committed to attend and play football at Arizona State University in the fall. And he’s the leader of the team that just won Chandler High School’s first state football championship in 65 years.

“He can do it all, and he p roves it all the time,” says Chandler head football coach Shaun Aguano.

Perkins, a two-year starter, has put up video game-like numbers, compiling 5,332 passing yards and 70 touchdowns at Chandler High. He also ran for 1,609 yards and 26 scores. Perkins posted a 19-4 record as a starter, including a 3-1

Reptiles get high-tech thermostats from Intel staff

BY TRACY HOUSE

The cooler weather may be a welcome reprieve for warm-blooded folks who don a sweater or cozy up under a comfy blanket, but for the Valley’s reptilian residents, the drop in temperatures can be dangerous.

That’s where two Chandler Intel employees come in.

Jon Grove, a 15-year Intel factory veteran, and Intel higher-education program manager Zach King teamed up to apply technology to the predicament. The result was GatorSense, a water temperature sensor and alert system that notifies caretakers via smartphone, tablet or laptop if temperatures are unsafe. It was offered to Scottsdalebased Phoenix Herpetological Society (PHS).

“This is one of the best things that’s

ever happened to us,” says Russ Johnson, president of PHS, where Grove is a longtime PHS volunteer.

A number of PHS’ inhabitants are sensitive to heat, especially crocodiles and alligators, he says. Reptiles are exothermic, which means they control their body temperature by moving to different areas where the temperature is more hospitable.

“When we get the few cold months here, it’s critical in the night and in the morning to have a good ambient temperature in the water,” Johnson explains.

The product’s cost is reasonable, too.

Sun Lakes women assist inmates after release from prison

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

With clothing, hygiene items and a bus pass in hand, Palo Verde residents Charlene Clausen and Romelle Durand traveled to prison to transport a released female inmate three years ago. The duo spent the day discussing how the former

criminal could be reintegrated into society. That trip forever changed and inspired Clausen and Durand.

Now the two head up the Welcome Back Committee, a program of the 501(c) (3) Gina’s Team, named for Gina Panetta who died from leukemia while serving

“The system I developed and Jon helped implement costs less than $2,000, if you take out development costs,” King says. “The point is, it’s a fraction of what a commercial system would cost.”

The aquatic inhabitants at the Phoenix Herpetological Society are being remotely monitored, much to the relief of the PHS curators who have the responsibility to maintain the sanctuary that houses about 43 hatchling crocodilians and 50 adults.

GatorSense is adaptable, King says, to any application where there is a need to monitor temperature. “It actually opens the door to some pretty exciting wireless temperature applications.”

mark against Hamilton High School, a remarkable accomplishment after 17 consecutive losses to its bitter rival located 6 miles south on Arizona Avenue.

During his senior campaign, Perkins was nearly flawless, throwing for 3,001 yards and 46 touchdowns while completing 74 percent of his passes. He led the Wolves to a 13-1 record and an elusive state championship, the school’s first since 1949.

“Everything is going in slow motion for him,” says Rick Garretson, Chandler’s quarterback coach who has been training top high school signal callers for 23 years. “He’s making it look easy and it’s not.”

Just how good was Perkins? He broke the career passing yardage record previously held by Brett Hundley (now playing for UCLA) and Darell Garretson (now at Utah State). But neither of them beat Hamilton or won the state title.

“We had a great opportunity to win a ring this year,” Perkins said. “I wanted it bad and I knew we could do it. I l ove my teammates.”

The combination of Perkins’ individual talents and his team’s success has resulted in a busy recruitment by major college football programs from all over the country. The humble star, however, hasn’t let the attention get to him.

“Nothing affects Bryce,” Aguano says. “He’s one of the most level-

Community

headed kids I’ve ever coached. He just keeps his head down and keeps working.”

Perkins also had the benefit of experiencing the recruiting process with his older brother, Paul, the starting tailback at UCLA, just a few years ago.

“He had me with him every step of the way,” Bryce Perkins says of his brother. “It allowed me to see what I was getting into and how to handle it. He’s my role model.”

But unlike Paul, Bryce is choosing to stay home, committing to ASU. Perkins

aspires to be the man leading the huddle of one of the most explosive offenses in college football. National signing day for high school seniors is Feb. 4, so Perkins can still change his mind, but those around him think his verbal commitment to ASU is solid.

“I have zero doubt he’ll be a bright star at ASU,” says Dan Manucci, a former McClintock High School star who now coaches and trains the Valley’s top quarterbacks. “He does everything right and he works harder than most other kids do. This kid is special.”

The 6-foot-3, 215-pound Perkins is a top-ranked high school quarterback by many national recruiting websites He can make any throw on the field and runs the ball like an All-American tailback.

There are some critics, however, who question whether Perkins will succeed as a quarterback in college. After his junior season, he was tabbed with the “athlete playing quarterback” label that has dogged so many of the top high school quarterbacks in recent years. Perkins wasn’t happy about the naysayers and he made it his mission to prove them wrong.

“Bryce plays with a chip on his shoulder,” says his father Bruce, a former NFL running back. “He lives to prove people wrong.”

One thing that has never been in doubt is Perkins’ ability to lead his teammates on and off the field. His work ethic, calm demeanor and humble attitude have made it easy for him to gain their respect and loyalty.

“He’s one of the best competitors I’ve ever met,” says Justin Jan, his Chandler High School teammate and top receiver. “He’s always pushing us to get better. He tells us he loves us then he goes out and p roves it. We look up to that.”

None of this has come as a surprise to his father, who saw his son’s potential at a young age.

“When Paul was in Pop Warner and Bryce was too young to play, he used to get all the younger siblings together and organize games and activities for

them during practices,” Bruce Perkins recalls. “He had a notebook and he even brought his toys to use as prizes. They all followed everything he did.”

And they haven’t stopped since. So what does the future hold for this gifted athlete?

“He can do whatever he wants in life,” Aguano says. “And he’ll be great at it.”

But for Perkins, raised with a pigskin

in his hands, there’s only one thing he sees in his future.

“There’s nothing else I’ve ever known,” he said. “I can’t imagine myself without football.”

Jim Grieshaber is a Valley-based freelance sportswriter and radio host. He can be reached at news@santansun. com.

Historically significant items stolen from storage unit

Golf clubs that belonged to city namesake and founder Dr. A.J. Chandler were stolen from the City of Chandler Museum storage facility sometime between Dec. 1 and Dec. 15.

Along with the golf clubs, Chandler’s golf bag and a bayonet from World War I were taken. Detective Seth Tyler says the stolen items have historic value because they are rare and unique to the city.

The Chandler Police Department is

seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspects in the case. Anyone with information is asked to call the Chandler Police Department at (480) 782-4130 or Silent Witness at (480) WITNESS (9486377).

Silent Witness is offering a reward up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest or indictment of these suspects. Those who call are asked to reference Chandler Police Report No. 2014-135504.

time in an Arizona prison. It actively promotes education and self-sufficiency for incarcerated women in the United States at no cost to the prisons.

“I love seeing them coming through that gate and giving them a great big hug,” Clausen says, adding that she enjoys telling them “Welcome back” and “You are going to be OK.”

“This is what we do,” she says of the program. “We absolutely love it. The women are so appreciative.”

According to Clausen, Arizona houses more than 46,000 male and female inmates at a cost of $25,000 per inmate annually. The state spends less than $10,000 a year on education for children.

The former inmates are especially thankful for the clothing and hygiene products. The Welcome Back Committee provides those items because Clausen says the women only earn 15 to 50 cents an hour in prison. A portion of that is held

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Community

for a gate fee when they are released from prison.

“We have had one woman come out with $12,” she says.

Welcome Back Committee greeted 26 women in 2014.

“Somewhere between 25 and 30 is a typical year for us,” Clausen says.

Clausen and Durand meet former inmates at Arizona State Prison Complex –Perryville in Goodyear, a 51-mile, one-way trip from Sun Lakes. They arrive with a plastic bag that is given to the gate officer with release clothing. The former inmates are taken to the DMV, parole and social security offices and then treated to lunch. The women then visit the St. Mary’s Food Bank for an emergency food box before they are taken to the halfway house or a release address. Clausen and Durand strive to relieve the anxiety of all released inmates.

Clausen says she has 18 tubs of clothing as well as hygiene items stored in her

home. She is able to purchase weekly bus passes at a discounted rate because Gina’s Team is a nonprofit entity.

“We try to be consistent in giving everyone the same items,” she says.

Gina’s Team subscribes to the principle that “education, not incarceration, is the cheapest form of crime prevention.” The organization has regular guest speakers that touch upon such topics as education, goal setting and leadership. Clausen says a speaker goes to the prison quarterly to motivate the women by persuading them that their lives are not over. There is life after prison.

Gina’s Team also teaches the six-week ATHENA leadership model course, which includes eight principles: live authentically; learn constantly; advocate fiercely; act courageously; foster collaboration; build relationships; give back and celebrate.

Clausen says the group just finished its 10th class of 45 women.

“We wish we could reach other

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yards,” she says, adding that they are only allowed on two minimum-security yards. “Everybody could use this. It certainly makes a difference.”

Clausen says when the women begin the course, they are like little flower buds. Upon completion of the course, she says they turn into big happy open flowers.

“They say they never realize how different their lives can be (by) changing their thinking and actions,” she says.

“We teach them the tools based on the eight principles that they can apply to life on the yards during their incarceration and in their new lives, when free.”

For more information, visit www. ginasteam.org, or call Clausen at (480) 7480618 or Durand at (602) 315-1707.

Meghan McCoy is the Neighbors and Business section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@ santansun.com.

entrust some of their most vital personal data with the person preparing their tax return.

Make sure the preparer signs the return and includes their Preparer Tax Identification Number that all paid prepares are required to have.

Review your tax return and ask questions before signing. Taxpayers are ultimately legally responsible for what’s on their tax return.

Never sign a blank tax return. This is a clear red flag. The preparer can put anything they want on the return—even their own bank account for the tax refund.

“For the weather interface that I built, users can set upper and lower limits for the temperature,” he continues. “So if the temperature goes above or below a certain level, it will send them an email or text message. So they can get an alert in the middle of the night.”

Remote water temperature sensors feed data via Bluetooth to the Galileo boards, which then sends information to a website that generate alerts. The information can be accessed on any device with a Web browser, including smartphones, tablets and laptops, 24/7. So if a water heater fails, PHS personnel are alerted and can make repairs before a reptile’s life is in danger.

“This is very innovative. I don’t know of any zoos that have this,” Johnson says.

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski, SanTan Sun News executive editor, contributed to this story. Tracy House is a freelance writer for SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at news@santansun.com.

Chandler police debuts vulnerable population database

The Chandler Police Department has developed a program to catalog members of the vulnerable population who live, work, go to school or receive treatment in Chandler.

“Return Me Safe” is a voluntary program designed with the care of the vulnerable resident in mind. Its aim is to provide much-needed information for police officers when responding to calls for service that involve these community members.

The department is asking family

members of those who suffer from autism, dementia or any other vulnerable state to discuss the benefits of registering their loved ones in this program. Along with family members, caregivers may also register members of the vulnerable population in the “Return Me Safe” program. This program, which is for children and adults, is offered through www.chandlerpd.com under Community.

For further information, contact Detective Seth Tyler at (480) 782-4105.

Meet elected officials at January chamber breakfast

The Chandler Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Meet the Elected Officials Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 9, at the Hilton Chandler-Phoenix, 2929 W. Frye Rd., Chandler. Many 2015 Arizona state legislators, members of the Chandler, Kyrene, Tempe and Mesa governing boards, the corporation commission and more are slated to attend.

The featured speaker will be Dick Castner from the U.S. Chamber of

Autism academy opens in Chandler

Commerce, who will be presenting his fiscal cliff perspective and its impact on Arizona. The chamber will also unveil its 2015 “How We Stand” booklet at the breakfast, which explains its legislative agendas and priorities for the coming year.

To attend the breakfast, visit the chamber’s website at www. chandlerchamber.com, email info@ chandlerchamber.com or call (480) 9630811.

The Center for Autism and Related Disorders is opening CARD Academy schools in Chandler and Phoenix this month. The private day school for individuals with autism uses applied behavior analysis for students with autism, developmental delay and speech-language impairment from ages 5 to 22. The curriculum is based on the Department of Education standards as well as CARD’s own assessment and curriculum called SKILLS, a technology used by teachers and administrators to organize lesson plans, track progress, identify trends and allocate resources such as extra training. SKILLS is aligned with the Common Core curriculum.

Enrollment is underway but space is limited. Empowerment scholarship account (ESA) funds are accepted. To enroll, contact Mary Ann Cassell (571) 290-0143 or email m.cassell@ centerforautism.com.

Freedom Riders to speak in Chandler

A bus ride 53 years ago thrust Freedom Riders Carol Ruth Silver and Claude Liggins into the center of the civil rights movement and eventually the history books.

A plane ride next month will bring them to Chandler, where their firsthand accounts of their fight for equality is as important today as it was in 1961.

Silver and Liggins will participate in a multi-media panel discussion, The Road to Freedom, at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, at the Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave. Tickets are $10 for the general public and $7 for veterans and

active military and available at www. evjcc.org or by calling (480) 897-0588 or visiting the Chandler Center for the Arts box office.

The story of the Freedom Riders is one of ordinary people, mostly young, both white and black, who challenged the system of segregation which had existed in the South for almost 100 years. By peacefully entering segregated waiting rooms, restrooms and lunch areas, they tried to change the law. Their actions were nonviolent, but they encountered extreme verbal and physical abuse and incarceration while

fighting for the freedoms Americans enjoy today.

Silver recounts her experiences in a book, “Freedom Rider Diary: Smuggled Notes from Parchman Prison,” and will be signing copies of her book at the event.

The Road to Freedom is among several events held each January in Chandler to honor the community’s heritage and diversity, along with the spirit, ideals, life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

and the civil rights movement.

This year’s events are produced by the City of Chandler, East Valley Jewish Community Center and Chandler Center for the Arts. For more information about Chandler’s Celebration of Unity, visit www.chandleraz. gov/unity and friend us on Facebook, www.facebook.com/ ChandlerDiversityOffice.

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Recycle holiday trees this month

BY MEGHAN MCCOY

The City of Chandler is offering holiday revelers 11 spots to recycle their Christmas trees through Jan. 16. Curbside pickup is also available.

The drop-off sites include Arrowhead Park, 1475 W. Erie St.; Chuparosa Park, 2400 S. Dobson Rd.; Desert Breeze Park, 660 N. Desert Breeze Blvd. E.; Folley Park, 601 E. Frye Rd.; Nozomi Park, 250 S. Kyrene Rd.; Pima Park, 625 N. McQueen Rd.; Recycling-Solid Waste Collection Center, 955 E. Queen Creek Rd.; Shawnee Park, 1400 W. Mesquite St.; Snedigar Sportsplex, on the west side of the park, east of Alma School Rd., off of Lake Drive; Tumbleweed Park, south of Celebration Drive, off of South Pioneer Parkway; and Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd.

Solid Waste field supervisor Mark King says residents should remove all ornaments, tinsel, lights and tree stands before they recycle the tree, which should not be placed in a bag.

King says the trees should be placed as far back in the container at the drop-off location as possible, so it does not block access for other residents to place their trees.

Curbside recycling is also offered during resident recycling days

through Friday, Jan. 16. The Christmas tree must be out for collection by 6 a.m. on the scheduled recycling day. Residents should not place Christmas trees in garbage or recycling cans, but rather on their property in a visible location that is not blocking a sidewalk or street. The trees must not be placed more than four feet behind the sidewalk because drivers are forbidden from going more than four feet to retrieve them.

Once picked up by the city, the Christmas trees are brought to the closest drop-off location. King says the material will be chipped and brought to a park where it will be used as ground cover.

For the 2012-13 holiday season, the City of Chandler collected 129 tons of Christmas trees. The following year, it yielded 140 tons of Christmas trees.

Diamondbacks, Clothes Cabin help the homeless

The Arizona Diamondbacks and the Chandler charity, Clothes Cabin, teamed up to help the homeless this winter. The Diamondbacks awarded Clothes Cabin a “D-Backs Give Back” grant for homeless assistance, which gave Clothes Cabin the opportunity to install lockers, mailboxes and winter clothing for its homeless clients.

Clothes Cabin, located at 1100 N. Alma School Rd., in Chandler, provides free clothing, shoes and linens to the poor, homeless and victims of domestic violence.

The charity invited its homeless clients to choose shoes, coats, long underwear, pants, sweatshirts and blankets.

The charity is accepting donations of children’s clothing and shoes, men’s clothing and towels from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

Clothes Cabin is open for client service from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays.

Friends Resale Boutique, a gift and thrift boutique, is operated by Clothes Cabin. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the boutique benefit Clothes Cabin. The boutique is located next to Clothes Cabin and is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday and Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, and from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

King says the Christmas trees were chipped and the material was reused as ground cover at the Paseo Vista Park.

For more information, call (480) 782-3510.

Meghan McCoy is the Neighbors and Business section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@ santansun.com.

Hart speaks at January Sun Lakes Democrats meeting

The public is invited to hear Doug Hart of the Arizona Alliance for Retired Americans speak at Sun Lakes Democratic Club meeting 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 12, in the Navajo Room of the Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 Sun Lakes Blvd. Hart will focus on the implications of the Ryan Budget and other Federal and Arizona legislative initiatives for retired Arizonans, especially regarding Medicare, Social Security, the Affordable Care Act and an update on the status of the bill, Improving Access to

Medicare Coverage Act of 2013.

At all the club meetings, nonperishable food items are collected in the west parking lot from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. for the Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank. There is also a collection box at the north entrance of the Sun Lakes Sunset Grill lobby.

The public is invited to the meetings held on the second Monday of each month. Refreshments are served. For details, call Tom Amrhein at (480) 895-1162.

Vote for neighborhood awards

Chandler residents have until Saturday, Jan. 17, to help Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and a panel of judges pick the winners of the mayor’s second annual Neighborhood Excellence Awards. Ten finalists are competing in four categories: Best Neighborhood Event, Best Revitalization Story, Neighborhood Leader of the Year and Most Active/Engaged Neighborhood. David Wolff from Dobson Estates III and Karen Peyton from Andersen Springs are finalists for Neighborhood Leader of the Year. The Dobson Estates III neighborhood joins Festival Celebration,

Orangetree, Solera and Sun Groves for Best Neighborhood Event and Andersen Springs is a finalist along with Sun Groves for Most Active/Engaged Neighborhood.

Orangetree is the lone finalist in the Best Revitalization Story category.

‘Get Waisted’ at Nabers

VOTE NOW: You can help decide who receives the 2015 awards for cool neighbors. Submitted photo

Winners will be announced at Tibshraeny’s State of the City Address Feb. 19. Vote online at www.chandleraz.gov/surveys/ TakeSurvey.aspx?SurveyID=98L1ln2. Find out more about the awards or how to register as a neighborhood at (480) 782-4354.

Sheriff’s posse and fire department guest speakers

The Sun Lakes Chapter of HLAA has invited the Sun Lakes Sheriff’s Posse and Sun Lakes Fire Department to speak from 12:45 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8, at the Ed Robson Branch Library Lecky Center.

Topics such as strategies for people with hearing loss to be safe in their homes will be discussed, as well as hearing smoke alarms, making a 9-1-1 call or responding to a security alarm alert. For additional information, contact Liz Booth at halib72@gmail.com, Regina Milgroom at reggiefaith@gmail.com and Scott Sjolin at the Ed Robson Branch, (602) 652-3000.

Nabers restaurant wants residents to whittle away that waist at its first “Get Waisted” event on Wednesday, Jan. 7. Who said exercise has to be a chore? Come out and learn how to line dance and swing dance for free. From 6:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. learn how to line dance with Carrie McNeish, and stay for the swing dance instruction with Steve Conrad from 8 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Classic country swing band, Trailer Queen, will also take the stage to keep the

momentum going. There will be a special menu available full of healthy dishes, $5 whiskey drinks and half price select wines by the bottle. This event kicks off its Wednesday night free dance lessons for 2015. Nabers, located at 825 N. 54th St., Chandler, focuses on good food, great drinks and fun music throughout the week. For more information, visit www. nabersaz.com or follow it on Facebook at www.facebook.com/nabersaz.

San Tan Mountain Regional Park January activities

San Tan Mountain Regional Park, 6533 W. Phillips Rd., Queen Creek, has a plethora of activities scheduled for January. For a complete listing of the monthly programs, visit www.maricopa. gov/parks/santan/. The park is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. There is a $6 per vehicle day-use entry fee.

Wild Foods: Desert Edibles set for Jan. 3

Wild foods all played a very important role in the lives of early desert dwellers. From the gathering of saguaro fruits to making meal cake from chia seeds, they harvested and prepared foods that are still enjoyed by people around the world. Join others for a oneof-a-kind experience into the delicious realm of wild foods of the Sonoran Desert at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 3 at the Visitor Center.

Hikers Choice, Marshmallow Roast Jan. 3, Jan. 31

Discover the beauty of the Sonoran Desert at night as individuals hike under the light from a full moon at 7 p.m. Saturdays Jan. 3 and Jan. 31. Listen for the sounds of wildlife and explore the night life atmosphere. Join Ranger Tish for a pristine 2.2-mile stroll along the Stargazer Trail or choose the self-guided hike along the 1.3-mile Littleleaf and

Goldmine trails. After the hike, enjoy the campfire and marshmallow roast at the picnic area. Dress warm and wear closedtoed shoes. Flashlights are welcome. Meet at the flagpole.

2-mile Birding Adventures hike

Jan. 4

Hit the trails early to catch the masters of the sky in action at 8 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 4, at the flagpole. This guided 2-mile hike will take individuals deep into the heart of prime birding territory. Enjoy learning birding skills from a local expert.

Homeschool program includes role playing Jan. 8

The Homeschool: Safe and Found Series includes a scenario where a family camping trip went from a blast to a scary situation where two brothers get lost while following deer into the canyon. The sunsets, the night falls and the brothers begin to worry, which is followed by panic. It’s cold, both siblings are hungry and beginning to get scared. Would you know what to do in this scenario? If not, then this program is for you. Join others at 9 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 8, as attendees role play different situations that will help keep them safe and found.

The Homeschool: Safe and Found Series continues at 9 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 22. Now that you know not-so-pleasant

camping experiences can happen, let’s up the scenario a few notches. You’re exploring the desert with your friends when someone steps into a crevice and breaks an ankle. Do you know what to do? During this program you will increase your confidence as you are equipped with the knowledge of basic first aid. Wear closed-toed shoes, hats and sunscreen. Bring plenty of water and meet at the flagpole.

Trail Blazers: Fitness Hike set throughout January

Be sure to meet at the flagpole to enjoy the New Year’s-inspired Goldmine Summit hike at 8 a.m. Friday, Jan. 9. While the trail gains 700-feet in elevation, the hike will be at a slow pace for a total of 3 miles roundtrip. At the top, the views will inspire everyone to greater achievements.

Need a little inspiration to get moving and grooving? Then join others for a progressive fitness hike that is sure to provide the oomph needed to get going. The easy to moderate 3.6-mile hike on the Mountain Base Loop begins at 8 a.m. Friday, Jan. 23. Wear closedtoed shoes, hats and sunscreen and bring plenty of water. Meet at the flagpole.

San Tan Shredders Mountain Bike Group to meet Jan. 10, Jan. 23

Join others for another exciting

mountain bike ride among the San Tan Mountains. Most group rides are comprised of riders from all skill levels, ages and fitness levels, but who all share the common interest of riding mountain bikes. “No Rider Left Behind” is the group’s policy because everyone rides together in groups based upon their riding levels.

The group offers help when needed, so individuals can gain new skills and confidence while on the trails. Come out and enjoy the great views of the San Tan Mountain Regional Park and the quiet get away from the everyday noise at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 10. This is a great way to get some exercise, have fun and meet some awesome people. A helmet is required for safety reasons and be sure to bring plenty of water and an extra inner tube.

Another ride will take place at 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23. Participants should bring plenty of water, an extra inner tube and 600 lumin lighting.

The group will also meet at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at the flagpole.

Reptile Feeding in the Nature Center Jan. 10

Reptiles, such as lizards and snakes, do not use forks and knives to help them eat their meals. Instead, they come with other tools that help get the job done. Bring your questions and join staff to see how cold-blooded residents eat their

meals at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, when frozen rodent entrees will be served to the critters. Come and learn about the important roles these creatures play in the dynamic food web in the Nature Center.

Animal Spotlighting set for Jan. 10

The cooler weather is upon the desert, but what happened to all the animals? Join others at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, to investigate where the animals have gone and how they stay warm through the winter. Learn a few secrets on how to spot the illusive creatures even before the warm weather returns. Bring flashlights, wear closed-toed shoes, bring plenty of water and meet at the flagpole.

Sonoran Desert Survival to take place in Nature Center Jan. 11

Do you believe you have what it takes to survive the harsh Sonoran desert? Find out everything you need to know about how to enjoy the Sonoran Desert without getting yourself into an emergency situation. You’ll learn how to always stay found during the fun and informative program inside the Nature Center that starts at 11 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 11.

Trail Talk Series: Exploring Desert Washes set for Jan. 15

Have you ever walked down a wash? What makes them so special and unique? How do washes contribute to

the health of the desert itself? Join others for a look at the fascinating world of desert washes as everyone explores the importance to the desert ecosystem. This walk begins at 9 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 15, and is 1.5 miles long. Wear closedtoed shoes, hats, sunscreen, bring water and meet at the flagpole.

Tiny Tumbleweeds: Toddler Stroll set for Jan. 16

Do you think some of the animals are playing hide and seek? Can you find them? The Tiny Tumbleweeds: Toddler Stroll will walk around the Interpretive Trail and Buddy Pond to find all the hidden critters at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 16. Participants will learn why some animals are camouflaged and why others are not. Wear a hat, sunscreen and closedtoed shoes for this adventure and bring plenty of water. Meet at the flagpole.

Creepy Crawly Tarantulas Program Jan. 16

Are tarantulas really out to get you? Are they as creepy as you think they are? And are these hairy arachnids dangerous? If you have questions about the desert spider, the tarantula, join Ranger Tish for the one-hour program at 4 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16, as individuals explore the mysterious lives of tarantulas. Meet inside the Nature Center.

Old Man of the Mountain: Historical Hike set for Jan. 17

Imagine living underneath the shelter

of a Palo Verde tree as you mine for gold in the heat of the desert. While this may not be the typical lifestyle many of us would choose, learn about the enchanting true story of a man who did just that and the remarkable impact he had on those he came in contact with. Join others for an awe-inspiring 2-mile voyage along the Goldmine Trail at 9 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 17. Meet at the north end of the park by going from Hunt Highway, west on Empire Rd., left at Wagon Wheel and right at Skyline to parking lot. Wear closed-toed shoes, hats and sunscreen. Remember to bring plenty of water.

Play Trailside Jeopardy

Jan. 17

Based on the old favorite television game show, Jeopardy, individuals will have the opportunity to win some prizes at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17. All participants need to do is listen to the questions and give the correct answers on topics that are all about the park. Meet at the main trailhead area for a zany game that will have participants humming the ever-sofamous game show tune.

Living with

Urban Wildlife program Jan. 24

If you live on the outer edges of town or in the desert, the chances of encountering a venomous reptile, coyote or javelina are high. Your knowledge about urban wildlife and how to avoid or deter them could be invaluable. To bulk up your knowledge, meet in the Nature Center at 2 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 24.

TrailWork Volunteer Day set for Jan. 24

San Tan Mountain Regional Park is looking for a few good volunteers at 8 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 24. to provide for visitor safety and to protect natural and cultural resources. The park staff and trail volunteers provide a much-needed source of labor to repair and enhance existing trails.

Trail maintenance projects include helping with pruning, erosion control, post installation and trail improvements. Regardless of trail experience and age, by the end of the day every volunteer knows the basics of trail maintenance. It is also a great way to see the park.

Volunteers will start at 8 a.m. in the picnic area near the Nature Center and be on the trails for three to four hours. Dress appropriately for the weather and bring water, gloves and any tools you might have. The staff will provide some of the tools, as well. RSVP by contacting Park Supervisor Sarah Steele at sarahsteele@mail.maricopa.gov.

Introducing the Desert through a 1.3-mile hike Jan. 25

Are you new to the desert? Are you wondering what is out there in this amazing land? Take a short 1.3-mile hike on the Littleleaf Trail and talk about all the plants and animals that live in the desert at 8 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 25. Wear closed-toed shoes, hats and sunscreen,

and be sure to bring water when you meet at the flagpole.

Hike the Goldmine Trail Jan. 29

Join Ranger Tish for this moderate to difficult 3-mile roundtrip hike up Goldmine at 8 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 29. Cameras and or binoculars are optional. Wear closed-toed shoes, hats and sunscreen. Bring plenty of water and snacks and meet at the flagpole.

Eco-Tour of park set for Jan. 30

San Tan Mountain Regional Park has typical Sonoran desert plants, but atypical geology that defines the distribution of plants throughout the park. From microclimates of desert washes to south-facing slopes, if you have asked why you see more creosote on the flat terrain than any other plant then this program is for you.

Individuals will take an easy to

moderate hike south of San Tan trail to the saddle at 8 a.m. Friday, Jan. 30. There, individuals will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the south-end of the park with the rugged Malpais Hills in the background. Join Ranger Tish for this 4-mile round trip hike. Wear closed-toed shoes, hats, sunscreen and a light jacket. Bring plenty of water and snacks and meet at the flagpole.

All About Kangaroo Rats at the Nature Center Jan. 31

What’s cute, fuzzy, hops on two legs, and can convert the seeds they eat into water? Kangaroo rats. No, they’re not from Australia, but these highly specialized rodents do live here in the desert. For those who are curious about these marvelous creatures, or have never heard of them before, this program is for you. Join others inside the Nature Center at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, for this fun and interactive program.

DEADLINES FOR JAN. 17 ISSUE

The deadline for news and advertising is 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7, for the Saturday, Jan. 17, 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 www.santansun.com and click on “About us” and call (480) 732-0250 for advertising rate details.

Eli Young Band headlining barbecue festival

Eli Young Band will headline the sixth annual Great American Barbecue & Beer Festival, which returns to downtown Chandler on Sunday, March 21.

The band is best known for its double platinum single “Crazy Girl,” for which it earned an American Country Music Award in 2011 for Song of the Year. Other popular tracks include “Even If It Breaks Your Heart” and “Drunk Last Night.”

“I’m thrilled to have Eli Young Band as our headlining act for this year’s festival,” says Landon Evans, the event’s coordinator. “The entertainment bill continues to grow each year and I couldn’t be happier with our amazing country lineup for 2015.”

The 2015 Great American Barbecue & Beer Festival will feature an expanded stage, more barbecue pit masters and a new competitive eating zone. The annual festival won Outstanding Event of the Year in 2012 and 2013 at the APS AzTEC Awards.

The festival will feature more than 60 pit masters from across the nation with their mouth-watering pork ribs, pulled pork, brisket and chicken. To wash down the barbecue, enjoy more than 200 kegs of SanTan Brewing Company’s craft beer, including Mr. Pineapple Wheat Beer, LimeLeaf Cream Ale, HopShock IPA,

Devil’s Ale and more.

The doors will open at 12 p.m. and close at 10 p.m. Saturday, March 21. The festival will fill the grounds of Dr. A.J. Chandler Park east and west, as well as connecting Arizona Avenue, which will be closed from Buffalo Street to Boston Street in downtown Chandler.

Presale general admission tickets are available for $12 online at www. chandlerbbq.com and will be $15 at the gate on the day of the event. Food and beverages will be sold separately. Children 12 years of age and younger are admitted for free.

Be sure to like the event on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bbq.beer. music and follow it on Twitter at @ BBQBEERFESTIVAL for entertainment announcements, a chance to win free tickets and more event details as they roll out.

A portion of the event proceeds will benefit the Boot Campaign, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to providing assistance to wounded military members and their families with obtaining jobs and securing mortgage free homes, finding post traumatic stress disorder counseling, getting adaptive clothing and much more. For more information, visit www. bootcampaign.com.

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