SanTan Sun News,11-7-15: community

CPD teaches others how to deal with the mentally ill

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

The Chandler Police Department recently held a training session for East Valley officers on how to handle cases involving the mentally ill.

“It’s an enormous task to put these schools together,” said Sgt. Greg Howarth, community resources supervisor and the program supervisor.

“The commitment from people like Community Bridges to come in to speak—same with NAMI—was remarkable. To coordinate it all is very difficult.”

NAMI is the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

The class was for Chandler, Scottsdale, Mesa and Gilbert public safety personnel’s crisis intervention teams (CIT). It was based on the “Memphis Model,” an innovative policebased first-responder program that has become nationally known that outlines prearrest jail diversion for those in a mental illness crisis. This program

Chandler’s one-stop community facility aids neighbors in need

BY JULIA DE SIMONE

When the Fletcher family of Chandler decided to start their own business, their financial status changed drastically.

But instead of despairing, they received support from a one-stop community facility—the Chandler Care Center.

“The care center has helped our family by proving enrichment activities for the children and supplemental uses to... fill in the gaps for our family,” Jennifer Fletcher said. “Everyone there is kind, upbeat and treats you with respect. We get to know people from all different backgrounds and no one is concerned with why you’re there.”

The school-based center was established by the Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) in 1995. It provides Chandler families in need access to medical, dental, counseling, social services, food banks as well as other special

programs. Most services are free with proof of identification and residence in Chandler. The food bank alone serves an average of 2,300 individuals monthly.

Katie Kahle, center director, said the program is a testament to CUSD school officials’ foresight and continuous encouragement.

“I have to say we are very fortunate of being a part of the school district. It’s really a credit to our superintendent and governing board. They are highly supportive of what we do, which is the backbone of why we do it,” she said. “It’s nice to know that even if I don’t need the resources, a child sitting next to my child has the resources to be successful.”

Such assistance includes free dental and medical care for children through the center’s on-site clinics. Services range from well-child check-ups to dental health see NEIGHBORSpage 5

provides law enforcement-based crisis intervention training for helping those individuals with mental illness.

The training was meant to teach emergency personnel about mental health conditions and medications, and to introduce police to mental health resources in the Valley.

“It’s comprehensive,” he said. “It includes alcohol-drug assessments, NAMI came in to discuss diagnosed conditions and their own stories,” Howarth said.

“The officers get to listen to this and ask questions.”

On the last day, the mental health officials participated in role playing.

“The role players are the counselors who go out in the field,” Howarth said. “They’re mental health counselors. They’re really good at role playing. I don’t want the officers [participating]. The model isn’t set up for officers to role play. They don’t deal with this day and day out.

“We do have a high number of mental health calls. About 10 percent up to 20 percent a day are mental health types of calls. Some of those are committals, some not.”

While traditional training teaches police to control situations by demanding compliance, and the unpredictable nature of a person with a psychiatric disability can be misinterpreted as a threat and quickly escalate to violence, according to CNN.

Photo radar cameras changing intersections next year

BY KERRY FEHR-SNYDER

Photo radar cameras are moving to five new Chandler intersections next year as part of a $2.5 million contract with a private company.

City traffic engineers chose the new intersections based on the number, severity and increase of accidents over the past several years. Chandler began using photo radar cameras to nab speeders and red light runners in February 2007.

The new intersections as of April 1 are:

• Alma School Road and Chandler Boulevard

• Kyrene Road and Chandler Boulevard

• Dobson and Ray roads

• Dobson and Chandler Boulevard

• McQueen and Ray roads

Photo radar cameras also will continue at:

• Alma School and Warner roads

• Alma School and Ray roads

• Alma School and Queen Creek roads

• Arizona Avenue and Warner Road

• Arizona Avenue and Ray Road

• Gilbert and Riggs roads

• Ray and Rural roads

Two City Council members voted against the photo radar program in late September.

Councilwoman Nora Ellen called the cameras a “punitive tool” and said the City should not use cameras on its residents.

“It’s an invasion of privacy,” she said. “We should be using signs to alert our residents of their speed and not blinding them with flashing camera lights.”

Councilman Terry Roe, a former Mesa police officer, also was opposed because of the program’s cost and effectiveness in

FEATURE STORIES

Former Seton student first graduate of residency program community Page 9

Women’s mentoring program benefits local busines business Page 23

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Body-worn cameras controversial topic in Chandler

BY KERRY FEHR-SNYDER

The Chandler Police Department is poised to outfit its force with body-worn cameras, a growing trend to counter citizens armed with video recorders.

The issue is expected to come before the seven-member City Council in December. If approved, the cameras would be deployed in February.

Chandler has been testing body-worn cameras for more than a year on about 40 officers while weighing legal issues, replacement parts and related issues.

“Obviously, it’s a big expense, and one of the big concerns is storage” of recordings, said Sgt. Joe Favazzo. “There are huge, huge issues involved here.”

More police departments have been using cameras since the August 2014 shooting death of an unarmed black teen, Michael Brown, in Ferguson, Missouri, by a white police officer. The shooting and decision not to prosecute the officer sparked a wave of riots in the predominately black community.

As of 2013, 75 percent of police forces didn’t use body-worn cameras, according to the National Institute of Justice. But in September, the Justice Department awarded $20 million to 73 agencies, including the Glendale Police Department, to purchase body-worn cameras.

In Chandler, at least two city councilmembers have questioned the use of cameras on privacy grounds.

“I’m concerned for a couple of reasons but mainly personal privacy,” said Councilman Terry Roe, a former officer with the Mesa Police Department. “If I had an emergency of a lifetime and called 9-1-1, I would be looking out for the wellbeing of anyone in my home and not calling the news media to record things going on in my home.

“Right of privacy is the most important thing.”

Roe added that he is worried about unintended consequences that often come with introducing new technology.

“Some people think making all these videos will be great, but I don’t want the Facebook jury with a bag of Cheetos to be judging our officers.”

Councilwoman Nora Ellen also is reluctant for Chandler police to use cameras because it would constitute an

Chandler has been testing body-worn cameras for more than a year on about 40 officers while weighing legal issues, replacement parts and related issues. Photo courtesy of the Chandler Police Department

invasion of privacy.

“It’s the wrong solution or at least not a good solution,” she said, adding that she hasn’t decided yet how she will vote on the issue. “I want to support our police department and chief of police, but I need to know more.”

Chandler City officials formed a three-member committee to study issues surrounding body-worn cameras. The committee’s findings had not been finalized as of deadline.

Two manufacturers have submitted bids to sell Chandler its body-worn cameras. They are Taser International, based in Scottsdale, and Safariland, which recently acquired Vievu in Seattle.

Chandler officials estimate it would cost $1.5 million to outfit the majority of its 330 officers with cameras, batteries and chargers. The City would use money obtained from criminal fines and isn’t expect to impact its budget for the first five years.

The City has budgeted a full-time employee to review and edit the videos to meet public records requests if the City Council approves the use of cameras.

Kerry Fehr-Snyder is a freelancer with the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at news@santansun.com.

CIT training is meant to prevent that.

“Ten years ago, some of the mental health behaviors looked like someone was on meth, but they hadn’t been on meth,” he said. “It really looked like meth. But if you take the time to ask the person, and be really calm, and slow down the speed in which you ask the questions, you can do your assessment.”

In Chandler, 25 personnel have gone

through the program. Howarth would like to see a minimum of 24 trained officers in a year.

“It’s another great way to show how we interact and how we conduct business, he said. “You build a partnership to build a trust.

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski is the executive editor of the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at christina@ santansun.com.

SanTan favorite MoonJuice available year round

“Our highly acclaimed IPA is now available year round. For years our fans begged us to make more MoonJuice available. We’re happy to finally say we can now share this amazing Galactic IPA with everyone,” said Anthony Canecchia, founder and brewmaster, SanTan Brewing Company.

Available at craft beer establishments on tap and in cans featuring SanTan’s fresh new look. MoonJuice will be available in Arizona, California, Texas and New Mexico Nov. 1. The IPA emits an aroma of peach, apricot and tropical fruit.

SanTan Brewing Company continues to be one of the fastest-growing craft breweries in the nation. Recently, SanTan unveiled a fresh new look. After eight years of rapid growth and expansion, SanTan has launched a refreshed brand that is fun yet mature, cohesive and

visually stunning, a perfect complement to its Southwestern-style ales. While the fresh look is expected to spread across Arizona in the next couple of months, the roll out in California, Texas and New Mexico will continue through the end of 2015. To find a pint or can of SanTan’s beers, visit www.SanTanBeerFinder.com.

DEADLINES FOR SANTAN SUN NEWS: NOV. 21

The deadline for news and advertising is 12 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, for the Saturday, Nov. 21, 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 www.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” or call (480) 732-0250 for advertising rate details.

The Chandler Care Center provides Chandler families in need access to medical, dental, counseling, social services, food banks as well as other special programs. Submitted photo

programs. Flu shots for adults are also free. Licensed professionals donate their time with the exception of one employee who is funded through a grant.

“Our goal is to provide the maximum of services at the least amount of cost,” Kahle said. “For every dollar we spend, we receive over $5 in service. There’s no way (we could do this) if we had to pay a doctor on staff.”

In fact, that’s what led Fletcher and her family to the center.

“Initially, my pediatrician sent us there for immunizations,” she said.

In addition to the clinics, Southwest Behavioral Health provides counseling to children and their families via appointments at the center. Southwest Behavioral Health is Arizona’s oldest and largest agency offering a wide diversity of services to facilitate healing. Cost for services is nominal.

“It’s important for kids to stay healthy. The health of the children is the center of what we do,” Kahle said. “Our goal is to have a robust facility that runs five days a week.”

But assistance for Chandler residents doesn’t stop there.

Another resource available at the center is its food bank primarily run by volunteers. It offers free, emergency food to Chandler households through the United Food Bank, which provides access to nutritious food through community partnerships, food distribution and education in the greater East Valley and Eastern Arizona. It is open Mondays through Fridays at various times throughout the year except for major holidays. Free food is available twice monthly.

“I don’t know how we would run a food bank without our volunteers,” Kahle said. “They’re really helping us run a program. It’s what is able to keep us running.”

In addition, the center has a Farmers Market from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Thursdays. Fresh produce, bread and other perishable items are also available for free for Chandler residents. The food is donated by the food bank, which partners with local farmers and grocers.

“The community helps out a lot. They won’t let their neighbors go hungry. They’ll say ‘Come with me and get food,’” Kahle said. “And I can tell you the three years I’ve been here, we’ve never run out of food.”

In addition to the food bank, there’s also a family resource facility within the center. A highlight is the interactive classes and birth to 5 years old accommodated by a parent. Classes are funded through First Things First, a program that supports the development, health and early education of Arizona’s children.

“We have families show up for a class every day,” Kahle said Fletcher is one of them.

The mother of four also homeschools her children so the classes supplement her curriculum.

“This is an opportunity for us to have an enrichment class to go to,” Fletcher said.

Kahle said in addition to these services, assistance is also available for Chandler residents applying for government programs including cash assistance, food stamps and Medicaid.

The center is open 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Fridays. It is closed for major holidays. Donations and volunteers are welcomed. For more information call (480) 812-7900 or visit at www. chandlerCAREcenter.com. Information can also be found on Facebook.

Julia De Simone is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at news@santansun.com.

The center helps families and children with enrichment activities. Submitted photo

The food bank, primarily run by volunteers, serves an average of 2,300 individuals monthly. Submitted photo

Center to distribute free Thanksgiving meals

Chandler Care Center volunteers are expected to distribute between 600 to 900 canvas bags complete with the makings of a Thanksgiving meal.

Katie Kahle, center director, said 661 bags were distributed last year for the annual Thanksgiving Family Assistance Day.

“I live in Chandler so to be able to have the opportunity to serve people that could be my neighbors, it’s powerful. It’s amazing,” Kahle said. “It does have an impact on our community.”

According to Kahle, each bag goes beyond including a frozen turkey. Depending on donations, it also contains boxes of instant potatoes, stuffing, an additional side dish, canned cranberries, fruits and veggies as well as a dessert to prepare. In addition, toiletries will be included in the reusable bag. Donations are from community and school drives.

Other community partners distributing the meal bags are the Chandler Christian Community Center and St. Mary’s Catholic Church, which is part of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Kahle said by providing meal bags at each of those facilities, they avoid duplications and can better serve the community as a whole.

Jennifer Fletcher of Chandler has already registered for her meal. The mother of four said she is grateful to have everything at her fingertips for a lessstressful holiday.

“We get the opportunity to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal,” she said.

Chandler residents in need can register until Nov. 18 for the holiday food bag. Proof of identification and residency is required. Meal bags will be distributed from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, at the center, 777 E. Galveston St., Chandler.

Police, firefighters teach residents about safety

BY LUCAS BRYNER

Chandler residents learned how to keep their homes safe and goofed around with McGruff the Crime Dog, while kids climbed on board a fire truck and police cars during the eighth annual GAIN (Getting Arizona Involved in Neighborhoods) Oct. 24.

GAIN is part of the National Night Out campaign, an annual communitybuilding campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make subdivisions safer, better places to live. Nationwide it is held in August, but because of weather concerns, it is held in October in Arizona.

Thirty neighborhoods took part in GAIN—including Shannon Place and Shawnee Drive. The police and fire departments showed up to discuss what they do in the community.

GAIN lets neighbors reconnect and develop a sense of community. It sends a message to criminals, letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

“Our main goal for this program is letting people get to know their neighbors and know who lives in the neighborhood,” said Daniel Chavarria, a five-year member of Chandler’s community service crime prevention unit. “Like how I always say, ‘I have your back and you have mine.’”

Three police cars and two fire trucks full of personnel stopped by Shannon Place to eat and talk to the residents. The visits have been especially fruitful for Jeff Jubster.

“In our first time doing this program, we got nominated as a first-time award,”

Jubster said.

“This means out of different neighborhoods in Chandler, we won first place in how many people came to the block party. We had over 150 people that came and we are expected to have over 100 for today’s party.”

Reserve Police Officer Scott Wills said GAIN helps eradicate crime in the Shannon Drive area.

The neighbors, in turn, know their subdivisions are being well protected. Susan Duke has held GAIN events at her home for six years.

“This neighborhood recently expanded to other neighborhoods, for example Citation Drive and Barrow Drive to get to know everyone in that area,” Duke said. “We want everyone to feel they are a part of a family and these events help us achieve it.”

Lucas Bryner is a journalism student at ASU. He can be reached at news@ santansun.com.

Former Seton student first graduate of residency program

BY TIM J. RANDALL

The path to becoming a physician is long and grueling: a minimum of seven years including medical school and residency, and all on top of a bachelor’s degree. For Dr. Annette Lusko, the journey has been well worth it.

“I am so grateful that this is what I am doing,” said Lusko. “This is an incredible profession, which allows me to impact lives.”

The first graduate of the Mountain Vista Medical Center Osteopathic Residency Program, Lusko has assumed her role as a family medicine physician at Desert Grove Family Medical at 1855 N. Stapley Dr. in Mesa.

“In addition to my family medicine position, I also am the supervising physician at the facility overseeing three of the 10 residents currently serving there,” she said.

A Seton Catholic Preparatory High School graduate, Lusko long had an inkling that medicine might be in her future.

“I always was interested in science,” she said.

That intellectual curiosity led her to ASU where she matriculated in 2004 with a degree in the biological sciences, followed by her first career position at the Dial Corp. (now part of Henkel AG & Co.) in clinical research.

“Even then though, I thought maybe medicine,” she said.

Her journey to medicine began in 2008 after earning a second bachelor’s degree in biomedical science. She assumed the prerequisites necessary to enter Midwestern University’s Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.

“I always knew I wanted to attend Midwestern,” she said. “It is a great school and I wanted to be close to my family.”

Midwestern specializes in health care education and “is committed to providing educational opportunities through both the academic program as well as residency programs throughout the state of Arizona,” says Kathleen H. Goeppinger, Ph.D., president and CEO, Midwestern University.

Lusko’s medical training at Midwestern followed the curriculum of osteopathic medicine, which differs from a traditional M.D. program in its adherence to “a ‘whole person’ approach to health care. Instead of just treating specific symptoms, osteopathic physicians concentrate on treating the patient as a whole,” according to the American Osteopathic Association.

“As a doctor of osteopathy (D.O.), I have precisely the same credentials as my M.D. peers, but we just have a different approach from a mission statement perspective,” said Lusko.

In 2012 after medical school graduation, Lusko began her three-year residency. The first year she was a little

Dr. Annette Lusko, the first graduate of the Mountain Vista Medical Center Osteopathic Residency Program, is excited about her future. Submitted photo

farther from home than she would have liked.

“I spent that first year in Indiana, as the Mountain View program was not operational yet in Arizona,” she said.

Once Mountain View’s initiative was introduced in 2012, Lusko applied and finished off her residency in 2015 in her home state.

“Being raised in the East Valley for the majority of my childhood, and now having the opportunity to give back to the community I grew up in, means the world to me,” Lusko said.

“Under the instruction and mentorship of my program director, I truly feel like I could conquer anything. During the residency training, I was challenged consistently. It helped to foster my goals, both academically and personally.”

With the cooperative team of Midwestern and Mountain Vista, Arizona patients can be confident that quality physicians like Lusko are handling their medical needs.

“It’s been amazing to watch the growth and the success of the postdoctoral training we’ve been able to offer in conjunction with Midwestern University,” said Tony Marinello, CEO of Mountain Vista Medical Center. “We’re truly helping to address our state’s physician shortage with the hopes of keeping the best medical talent here in the Valley.”

Lusko, a wife and mother of two in addition to her medical responsibilities, is thrilled with where she is at and the future ahead. “It is gratifying to know that patients have faith and put their confidence in me,” she said.

Tim J. Randall is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. He can be reached at news@santansun.com.

reducing traffic accidents.

With fewer than three accidents on average at the 10 busiest intersections, money on photo radar cameras was not well spent, he said.

Roe also objected to the cut contractor American Traffic Solutions

The City of Chandler received this bid of $124 per month in 1921 to haul off the City’s trash. Today’s cost is over $600,000 per month. Submitted photo

City of Chandler Insider

Once every six weeks, residents paying for City-provided solid waste services can schedule a free curbside collection of large items. Submitted photo

Place your recycling or trash container on the street before 6 a.m. on collection day with wheels facing the curb. Containers also can be taken out after 6 p.m. the night before. Submitted photo

There’s more to solid waste services than trash collection

Ever wonder what it costs the City each month to haul away your trash and recyclables?

The answer is more than $600,000. In Chandler’s case, we contract this service out to a private vendor, Waste Management.

The City did receive a much lower bid for this service. It was some time ago, however. George Henry submitted the following bid to the “Common Council of Chandler, Ariz.” in March 1921: “Gentlemen,

I hereby submit a bid on the hauling of garbage for the Town of Chandler, Ariz., at $124 per month, and I have good team and wagon.”

Today, the City provides weekly recycling and trash collection to more than 72,000 homes. But Chandler’s Solid Waste Services division offers more than just weekly collection.

Curbside bulk collection

If it won’t fit in the bin, we can pick it up at the curb. Once every six weeks, residents paying for City-provided solid waste services can schedule a free curbside collection of large items. There are some restrictions, however, which will be explained by a customer service representatives at the time you schedule your bulk pickup. It is important to have a detailed list of what you want collected before calling. Items not eligible for bulk collection include:

• Dirt, rock, sod, gravel, bricks, cement and pavers

• Remodeling and construction debris

• Oversized yard waste

• Household hazardous waste

• Perishable trash.

A $10 fee is charged for appliances that contain Freon. If you have questions about what items are acceptable, or wish to schedule a bulk collection, call (480) 782-3510.

Household hazardous waste (HHW)

It is dangerous and irresponsible to place hazardous waste in your recycling or trash container, or to pour these chemicals in the street or down the drain. For your safety, and that of the environment, we provide a facility where such materials can be dropped off and disposed of properly. It is located at our Recycling-Solid Waste Collection Center, 955 E. Queen Creek Rd., on the southwest corner of McQueen and Queen Creek roads.

As with our bulk collection program, residents must call (480) 782-3510 to make an appointment. Scheduled appointments help ensure a safe environment for the public and for

managing the quantities of household hazardous waste delivered. When you call, a customer service representative will provide you with important information prior to your visit. For example, oil and gasoline must be in cans no larger than 5 gallons. Ammunition and prescription drugs are not accepted. Some of the more common items collected at the HHW facility include:

• Paint and varnish

• Cleaning aids

• Craft, hobby, and home repair products

• Auto maintenance products

• Fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides

• Pool chemicals

• Rechargeable and auto batteries

• CFL and fluorescent light bulbs

• Propane tanks

• Cooking oil

To help offset the cost of disposal, the City continually seeks ways to reduce costs by finding vendors who will purchase the materials. Motor oil, brake fluid and antifreeze are sold to a local vendor, cooking oil is donated to make bio-fuel, paint is recycled to a specialized vendor and some is offered to City projects and charities, and rechargeable batteries are recycled.

Recycling-Solid Waste Collection Center (RSWCC)

The RSWCC is a residential drop-off facility for recycling and trash disposal. It is open from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Thursday through Monday. Use of the facility is restricted to Chandler residents paying for City-provided solid waste services who are self-hauling and unloading waste from their residence.

Recyclable materials, household trash and yard waste can be dropped off for free. A fee of $50 per ton is charged for dirt, gravel, rock, concrete and debris removed from a resident’s property associated with construction, installation, removal, demolition, remodeling or repairs. Such items include, but aren’t limited to, roofing, flooring, fencing, and building/construction materials such as wood waste, wood pallets, drywall, brick/block, railroad ties, cabinets, countertops and gates/doors/door frames.

Fees are charged to the resident’s utility bill and all material must come from the location listed on the bill. Fees are not collected at the facility. Nonresidents, including County island residents, cannot use the facility, except for dropping off recycling materials currently accepted. Questions and answers about the facility and services can be found online at www.chandleraz. gov/recycle or by calling (480) 782-3510.

Recycling for apartments, multifamily units

Recycling is a community affair. Chandler provides recycling drop-off sites throughout the City for residents living in townhouses, patio homes and multifamily communities with four or more units, and for businesses that do not have in-house recycling. Visit www. chandleraz.gov/recycle or call (480) 7823510 for locations.

More information

The monthly fee for solid waste services is $15.97. This fee covers curbside and bulk collection, replacement of damaged containers, and unlimited use of the RSWCC (not including certain chargeable materials). Call (480) 782-3510 or visit www.chandleraz.gov/recycle for more information and like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @ chandlerrecycle.

What to recycle - the do’s and don’ts

• Recycle printing paper, phone books, envelopes, newspapers, (including holiday ads), magazines and paper sacks, and bagged shredded paper. Do not recycle gift wrap, coated gift bags, ribbon, tissue paper, greeting cards, paper plates, napkins, pet food bags or paper towels.

• Recycle cardboard boxes, prepared food boxes and toilet tissue rolls, paper towel and gift wrap tubes. Do not recycle boxes contaminated with food or grease.

• Recycle plastic bottles, jugs and containers with recycle symbols No. 1 through No. 6. Such items include frozen food plastic trays and containers that held milk, juice, soda, water, liquid soap, margarine or yogurt. Do not recycle plastic bags, shrink wrap, packing peanuts, sheeting or Styro-

foam. NOTE: Although Styrofoam and other polystyrene products are marked as recyclable, there is no market for much of the Styrofoam materials. Plastic bags and wrap can be recycled at special bins at the front of all Chandler grocery stores.

• Recycle empty aerosol cans that held food and beauty product such as whipped cream, cooking spray, deodorant and shaving cream.

• Recycle aluminum beverage cans and clean, dry aluminum foil and pie tins, plus steel tin cans such as those from soup, pet food, tuna, fruit and vegetables.

• Recycle glass bottles and jars from food and beverages such as salad dressing, wine, beer, pickles, jelly and olives. Do not recycle mirrors, drinking glasses or plates.

The ABCs of trash collection

When taking your recycling or trash container out to the street, please allow enough room for the collection truck to pick up each container. Do not place containers on the sidewalk, near parked vehicles or permanent structures, and if other containers are nearby, provide at least 2 to 3 feet of space between each container.

Place containers on the street before 6 a.m. on your collection day with wheels

facing the curb. Containers also can be taken out after 6 p.m. the night before. Containers will be picked up anytime between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. Call Solid Waste Customer Services at (480) 7823510 by the next business day if your can was missed. If the collection truck comes by your home and your can is not out by 6 a.m., you may be subject to additional fees to send the truck back to your home.

City of Chandler

EMPLOYEE PROFILE

Christine Vrabec, customer service rep

Customer Service Representative

Christine Vrabec has spent the past 15 years with the City’s Solid Waste Services Division handling calls from residents. She works with two other full-time CSRs and two part-time staff helping customers schedule bulk trash pickups or resolve problems with missed trash collections, alley dumping, or a multitude of other questions or issues that arise.

“We have to juggle a lot of things, such as answering phones, doing paperwork, coordinating with our contractor, field and facility staff; you have to be flexible,” said Vrabec, who at first was apprehensive about taking phone calls.

“When I first started, I would dread the phone ringing, but I found that as a CSR, you can’t worry about the next phone call; it is going to be what it’s going to be,” Vrabec explained. “You need to just take the calls one at a time. You eventually learn to relax and remember, you’re there to help somebody and you can’t help them until you pick up the phone.”

The importance of remaining calm and collected is a lesson not only for CSRs, but for those calling in as well, Vrabec said. “Keep in mind that the person you’re speaking to is the person who is going to help you. The person you’re speaking to did not cause the

problem, but they are the person who can help fix it.”

Vrabec and her husband, John, moved to Arizona from Illinois in 2000.

After a brief stint with a local school district, she landed her job with the City. Her most common calls involve scheduling bulk trash collection for residents. Chandler offers one free bulk pickup every six weeks, but residents must call the Chandler Recycling-Solid Waste Collection Center at (480) 7823510 to schedule the pickup and receive instructions on what is, and isn’t, allowed.

“We ask residents not to place items in boxes, use bags instead, because boxes get wet and fall apart, plus they’re recyclable,” Vrabec explained. “The only exception would be if people are throwing away cactus; they need to be boxed.”

Household hazardous waste, such as paint cans and motor oil, should never be placed outdoors for bulk collection. The same is true for food waste. “Neighborhood animals will have a field day in your front yard,” warned Vrabec. “When scheduling a bulk pickup, we send email verifications to our residents, which contain all the instructions.”

Many customer calls are related to seasonal activities, such as when Christmas trees can be placed on

the curb for pickup or when trash collection schedules must be altered to accommodate spring and fall street resurfacing work.

When not working, Vrabec said she and her husband travel and occasionally go camping. Hobbies include collecting tin containers and depression-era glass.

“I still have my first tin; it’s a Jays Potato Chip container from Chicago,” she smiled. “But I started getting so many

tins from relatives, I started using them instead of boxes when sending presents to family members.”

Apparently, when it comes to containers, Vrabec is adept at handling them both at work and at home.

Information provided by the City of Chandler Communications and Public Affairs Department.

Shalom Chapter of Hadassah schedules holiday boutique program

It’s time for the Shalom Chapter of Hadassah’s holiday boutique, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17, for Hanukkah or other gift-giving days at the Oakwood Clubhouse, 24218 S. Oakwood Blvd., Sun Lakes. Vendors will have jewelry, purses, Origami Owl and printed stationery and napkins and more. A portion of the proceeds supports Hadassah. An optional lunch is $16.

Send a lunch reservation check to Ruth Friedman, The Renaissance, 9508 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes, AZ, 85248 or call (480) 802-9600. After lunch there will be a program about the benefits of yoga.

Future activities include a:

• Trip to Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s

Museum of the West, Tuesday, Dec. 8. This includes a docent-led tour of the exhibit “A Salute to the Cowboy Artists of America.” Also on display is a Lewis and Clark exhibit. This event is limited to 25. Make a reservation before Nov. 25 by sending a check made out to Hadassah for $7 to Judi Josephson, 23625 S. Rosecrest Dr., Sun Lakes 85248. Senior admission to the museum is $11. Car pools will be arranged. Lunch will be at a nearby restaurant. Info: Judi at (480) 802-4944 or Diane at (480) 895-6917.

• Hanukkah party Tuesday, Dec. 15. More information to follow.

For membership information, call Cyril at (480) 802-0243 or Kathy at (480) 895-5194.

Nominate veterans for Operation Welcome Home Chandler

Operation Welcome Home Chandler is accepting nominations and sponsorships for the fourth ceremony to be held next spring.

During the ceremony, veterans are part of a procession escorted by the Arizona Patriot Guard to the Chandler City Council Chambers, where the Chandler City Council will recognize and thank each individual. During the ceremony, the honorees will be presented with a gift basket with donations from the community. After the public event, the veterans and their family will be treated to dinner at a local restaurant.

Veterans should be Chandler residents

and have been on active duty within the last three years or leaving soon. Residents or businesses also may participate through sponsorship or in-kind donations for the program.

Ceremonies are scheduled several times a year, based on the number of nominees. Residents are encouraged to attend the event, and donations are being accepted through the Chandler Chamber Community Foundation.

To nominate a veteran or sponsor the program, visit www.chandleraz.gov/ patriotism.

Do-It-Yourself Connect

Time to complete those home improvement projects

The weather is finally cooling down, and it’s the perfect time to cross off those items on your “honey do” list. Sometimes, home improvement projects can be overwhelming to tackle, and many residents wonder what permits you may need from the City. If this is the case, we’ve got the answers for you!

On Tuesday, Nov. 10, Mayor Jay Tibshraeny’s popular Do-ItYourself (DIY) Connect will be at the Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave. This free workshop is led by City staff, who will answer all your DIY questions. Chandler residents may visit displays set up in the foyer of the Center at 6 p.m., followed by a presentation in the Bogle Theatre at 7 p.m.

Be sure to attend and ask your questions of the following City department representatives:

 Transportation & Development and Planning departments will discuss what jobs need permits and how to obtain one.

 Neighborhood Programs will discuss code enforcement and the most common violations made by homeowners.

 Water Conservation will discuss rebates that are available from the City and tips on desert adaptive plants and drip systems.

VFW Post seeks new members

New VFW members are needed to support efforts to protect veterans’ rights. Veterans organizations are looking for new members to join the Veterans of Foreign Wars, including the Sun Lakes Post 8053, or other veterans’ groups.

Approximately 1,100 World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War veterans die each day, and with fewer members in Congress who have served in the military, VFW members want to recruit new members to help ensure the rights of veterans are maintained.

In July, the American Legion post turned in its charter and closed its doors, citing a declining membership base and smaller numbers of eligible veterans joining their groups. Members of the VFW Post 8053 meet on the fourth Monday each month in the Sun Lakes Clubhouse, Arizona Room, 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes.

The VFW supports veterans in VA hospitals by donating medical equipment

and other necessities such as helping the veterans in obtaining their benefits.

The Sun Lakes VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary were founded in December 1975 as the Russell W. Bercier VFW Post 8053, Sun Lakes. The mission of the post is to service members, all veterans and their families, bring awareness to the community of their roles and promote national ideals.

For those interested in becoming a member of the VFW, membership requires military service overseas during an operation or conflict. Other actions for eligibility would include, but not be limited to, award of a campaign medal or ribbon, duty anytime in Korea from 1950 to the present, service in Iraq, Afghanistan, the Korean War or World War II.

Anyone unsure of their eligibility can contact Junior Vice Commander Carlos Lozano at carlos1520@cox.net or visit the www.sunlakesvfw.org.

Police looking for a sexual assault suspect

The Chandler Police Department is looking for a suspect who sexually assaulted a child in the area of California Street and Pecos Road. Officers have gone door-to-door in the community, searching for a white male, 20 to 30 years old with short black curly hair, mustache and goatee. He was wearing a black baseball cap, black T-shirt and dark pants. The suspect was on foot and no vehicle was seen.

The suspect in the sexual assault of a child is a white male, 20 to 30 years old, with short black curly hair, mustache and goatee. Submitted photo

 Solid Waste Services (recycling and trash) staff will share how to best dispose of construction debris as well as items residents no longer need or want.

 Police will discuss security alarms and provide crime prevention tips for homeowners.

The event will end at approximately 8 p.m. Staff also has created a homeowner’s building permit manual that’s available online at chandleraz.gov/content/HOBPManual.pdf. The manual provides information on what types of work need a permit, what information is required to get a permit, examples of plans and details to help you complete your project while being in compliance, and more.

Come to the DIY Connect event, learn how to permit like a pro and get your DIY questions answered. For more information, visit chandleraz.gov/connect or call 480-782-2222.

SHOWCASING THE BEST OF OCOTILLO

When you are looking to buy or sell a home in OcotilloSally Shino should be your first call!

Her enthusiastic nature will be evident from the moment you talk with her. A resident of Ocotillo, she is truly passionate about the community she lives in.

Looking to buy new construction? Sally worked in new construction home sales for years and will represent YOUR BEST INTEREST in your purchase. Call today and she’ll do all the research and take you on a personal tour of everything that is available in the area. Let Sally show you the finest homes in the Valley!

Stop Waiting! It’s Time to Buy!

Don’t wait any longer to own! Many renters mistakenly feel like they are not in the position to buy right now. However, they might be suprised. If you or someone you know wants to buy a home - call Eric to find out what loan programs may be available. Home prices and interest rates are expected to increase - great reasons to invest now!

Begin creating memories in your new home before the holidays! See what homes are available that you can move-in quickly!

STAGING YOUR HOME TO SELL...

You might be amazed at what you can do to improve the value of your home. A few minor changes could mean thousands of dollars to your bottom line. If you are curious about how you could improve your home for the market, contact Sally for a complimentary home interior consultation. Call Sally today at 480.326.1851 or get an automated home market value online at:

www.GetMyChandlerHomeValue.com

$200,000 ZERO DOWNPayment is $1193/MO PITI and MTG Insurance

$250,000 3.5% DOWN Payment is $1445/MO PITI and MTG Insurance

*Based on 3.875% interest. Rates are subject to change.

Newspaper columnist speaking at Sun Lakes Democratic Club

The Veterans’ Voice columnist for the Arizona Republic, Art Sloane, is speaking at the next meeting of the Sun Lakes Democratic Club, 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 9, in the Navajo Room of the Sun Lakes Country Club, 25601 Sun Lakes Blvd. He will talk about veterans’ issues and concerns.

Sloane served for 14 years in the U.S. Air Force and 17 years in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserves. He is a supporter of Arizona Stand Down, an annual event to assist homeless and needy veterans by providing basic needs and services.

Nonperishable food items are

collected prior to all club meetings 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 total collected during 2014 was 1,880 pounds of food and $170. Through September, 1,748 pounds of food and $356 has been collected.

Sun Lakes Democratic Club meetings are on the second Monday of each month. Refreshments are served. Info: (480) 895-1162.

Police receive two grants for analysis equipment

The Chandler Police Department has received two grants for equipment used during the blood alcohol analysis process. The first grant, for $21,896, funds equipment that supplies laboratory grade air to the crime lab. The second grant, for $83,578, will be used to purchase a gas chromatograph.

The grants are from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, which previously awarded the department a $25,000 grant for the “Know Your Limit” educational awareness program. That program is designed to educate the public on the effects alcohol has on an individual’s blood alcohol level.

Making Sense of Medicare presented by insurance specialist Andy Lockridge

Finding out how to choose the best option for yourself as you plan for your future needs is the goal of Andy Lockbridge’s presentation from 12:45 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, in the Lecky Center at the Ed Robson Library, 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes. A licensed

life and health insurance agent since 1995, he will address issues of general and hearing healthcare.

Parking is available in the church lot next to the library. Free. Refreshments. Info: (602) 652-3000; www.mcldaz.org.

ProShred Arizona partners with police for safety event

Old receipts, records, taxes, letters, bills and invoices will be shredded at the Chandler Police Department’s free “Fall into Safety” event 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, courtesy of ProShred Arizona’s onsite mobile shredder at 250 E. Chicago St.

The first three banker boxes or 13-gallon bags of paper for shredding are free. A donation of $3 per box or bag is suggested to support Special Olympics.

With personal identity theft and corporate espionage emerging as two of America’s fastest growing crimes, ProShred has developed convenient document-shredding services that reduce the risks associated with disposing of personal and office confidential material.

“Shredding documents with financial or other personal and sensitive information is a big step toward preventing identity theft,” said Patty Caradonna, director of marketing for ProShred Arizona. “We commend

ProShred has developed convenient document shredding services that reduce the risks associated with disposing of personal and office confidential material. Submitted photo

community groups like the Chandler Police Department for offering this service to area residents.”

Free child fingerprinting, unwanted prescription and over-the-counter drug disposal, and displays by vendors including RED Means Stop, not MY kid, Cops’ ‘N Kids and Special Olympics will also be offered.

Info: www.chandlerpd.com.

Police, troopers work together to apprehend teenager with rifle

A Chandler teenager upset with his parents was apprehended recently by a trooper with the Arizona Department of Public Safety working with a Chandler police officer. The 14 year old was taken into custody for possession of a vehicle reported stolen by his parents. Police also recovered a semi-automatic rifle and ammunition.

According to police reports, cellular phone data was used to determine that the vehicle were in the area of Saguaro High School in Scottsdale. The DPS Auto Theft Taskforce located the suspect in the school parking lot and the teenager made no threats toward the public and had not posted or mentioned any threats prior to his arrest.

City Council approves Architectural Excellence Award projects

The Chandler City Council has approved recommendations from the Architectural Excellence Award Committee for projects to receive awards in 2015. The proposed projects are Alliance Bank, the Chandler Regional Hospital expansion, Ironwood Cancer and Research Center, Ocotillo Village Health Club and Premier Cardiovascular Center. Upcoming events noted by the council include:

• The Chandler Symphony Orchestra continues its Classical Concert Series

3 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 8, at the Chandler Center for the Arts, with “Gypsy Life.” Info: www.chandlersymphony.net.

• A ceremony to honor the late Chandler Police officer David Payne and the Chandler Kiwanis Club, 9 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 14, at Celebration Plaza, located at Tumbleweed Park.

• The Chandler National Little League team that recently participated in a tournament in Taiwan will be recognized at the Nov. 16 Council meeting, which starts at 7 p.m.

• Rock the Block performs 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, in Downtown Chandler, and Woofstock performs 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21 for free at Tumbleweed Park. Info: www. chandleraz.gov.

Blood donors welcome at the Chandler Donor Center and other locations

United Blood Services Arizona is encouraging blood donors to visit the Chandler Donor Center, 1989 W. Elliot Rd., 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. All blood types are needed, but Type O-negative is in greatest demand. Other locations that are scheduled in Chandler are:

• 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, in the Cultural Hall at the LDS Chandler East Stake, 6345 S. Lindsay Dr.

• 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 9, Solera,

6360 S. Mountain Blvd., Ballroom

• 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, at Microchip Technology, 2355 W. Chandler Blvd., in the Bloodmobile.

• 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 30, in the bus at the C/S Building at ChandlerGilbert Community College, 2626 E. Pecos Rd.

• There is also a blood drive in San Tan Valley, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, in the auxiliary gym at Combs High School, 2505 E. Germann Rd. To make an appointment, call (877) UBS-HERO or visit wwwBloodHero.com.

Nominations are being accepted for 2015 Volunteer Recognition Awards

Applications for the 2015 Volunteer Recognition Awards are being accepted by the City of Chandler, the Chandler Non-Profit Coalition and the faithbased and nonprofit group For Our City.

Faith-based groups, nonprofits, schools, businesses and other organizations with volunteers are encouraged to nominate individuals for one of eight Recognition Awards for outstanding community service from January to December.

The selected recipients will be honored during a recognition breakfast in February. During the awards breakfast, all Chandler volunteers with more than 1,000 hours of service in 2015 will receive a lapel pin and certificate from Mayor Jay Tibshraeny.

Volunteers with more than 100 hours also will receive a certificate from the mayor.

The award categories are:

• Makes It Happen Award: This nominee works for many organizations, with the goal of contributing anywhere and everywhere, in any way they can.

• Sunbeam Award: This nominee is the most cheerful person in the place. They have the best personality, attitude, always smiling. Their mere appearance brightens the area around them.

• Longevity Award: This nominee has worked for an organization for many

years and provides a commitment and dedication to their service that is awe-inspiring.

• Innovation Award: This nominee brings creative and unique solutions to the job.

• Youth Award: This nominee is strictly for youth, 17 years of age or younger. The nominee should be dedicated, positive and hardworking, or somehow stand out among others.

• Multitasking Maestro Award: This nominee takes on a diverse array of multiple assignments, jobs or objectives at the same time and can juggle them effectively, while accomplishing all of them successfully.

• Strong Arms Award: This nominee is not afraid to take on any job no matter how “down-and-dirty” it may be. The nominee may also be called the “jack-of-all-trades” in an organization.

• Working Together Award: This new award category is for a group in any organization that has completed a group volunteer project in Chandler. Award submissions are limited to one page or less. Specific guidelines also are available online with the nomination form. Applications are available online at chandleraz.gov/ volunteer100 and are due by Tuesday, Dec. 1. Info: niki.tapia@chandleraz.gov.

People who have lost teeth might often feel too self-conscious to smile or talk in public. Additionally, early tooth loss can change eating habits and facial appearance and lead to secondary health problems.

Although you have a number of options for the replacement of missing teeth, none have proven to be as functionally effective and durable as dental implants. In many cases, dental implants are the only logical choice for the restoration of all necessary functioning of the teeth and supporting structures; dental implants provide a simple remedy with proven results.

Dental implants are stronger and more durable than bridges and dentures. Implants offer a permanent solution to tooth loss and are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth.

They are proven to preserve the jaw bone, gums and the adjacent natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything, knowing that their teeth appear natural and that their facial contours will be preserved. We offer state-of-the-art technologies and Dr. Shah is constantly implementing the latest techniques to provide you with the best care available.

Patients who come to us can smile with confidence. For a consultation, please call Dr. Shah at 480.814.9500. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Board Certified, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

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