SanTan Sun News; 12-20-14; Community

December 20, 2014 – January 2, 2015 www.SanTanSun.com

2014: Celebration and sadness fill the city

BY THE CITY OF CHANDLER

Each year we like to step back and celebrate what the past year has meant to us and our community. The City of Chandler continues to shine as our residents and businesses enjoy an improving economy, which has afforded us the opportunity to continue providing services and amenities that improve our City’s quality of life. Here’s a look at some of the highlights from 2014.

January 2014

Vice mayor chosen

One of the City Council’s first big decisions of the year was the naming of a new vice mayor. By a unanimous vote, Councilman Rick Heumann was chosen. He began his tenure on the City Council in January 2009 and his term as vice mayor expires Jan. 8.

Police chief hired

Sean Duggan, an assistant police chief with the Scottsdale Police Department, reported for duty Jan. 13 as Chandler’s new police chief following the retirement of Sherry Kiyler. Duggan earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees

in justice studies from Arizona State University and is a member of the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force Executive Committee and the Arizona & International Associations of Chiefs of Police, and was selected for the FBI’s Police Executive Fellowship Program.

Kevin Hartke makes big impact on education, community

BY CURT BLAKENEY

Since moving to the Valley in 1985, Chandler City Councilman Kevin Hartke has served the community’s needs at the state and local levels in a myriad of ways.

From his work as a pastor at Trinity Christian Fellowship, to his direction of the statewide nonprofit For Our City, to the time he dedicates to individual children at Galveston Elementary School—and everything in between— Hartke has more than earned the title of Outstanding Volunteer, which was awarded to him on Dec. 3 by the Chandler Unified School District.

“Councilmember Hartke has

ASU TechShop grand opening

The City, in partnership with Arizona State University (ASU), launched a first-of-its-kind opportunity in the nation for college students. TechShop, a membership-based, do-it-yourself workshop and fabrication studio with locations nationwide, celebrated the official grand opening of its Chandler location at ASU’s Chandler Innovation Center on Friday, Jan. 17. The state-ofthe-art facility also provides students with opportunities to forge relationships with a community of entrepreneurs and

inventors in the East Valley. The new makerspace also furthers Chandler’s reputation as a focal point of innovation and creativity in the Southwest.

February 2014

Entrepreneurship espoused at mayor’s state of city

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny presented the annual State of the City address on Thursday, Feb. 6, where he shared news about the surge of business growth in Chandler. He reinforced the City’s commitment to boosting longterm economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship through innovative individuals and companies. Tibshraeny highlighted businesses from the hightech sector, such as General Motors and Infusionsoft, and reiterated the City’s plan to support continued college and university relationships and publicprivate partnerships.

March 2014

New assistant city manager named

The City’s Communications and Public Affairs Director Nachie Marquez was selected as the new assistant city manager. She filled the position left vacant by Assistant City Manager Pat McDermott, who retired in February. Marquez became the City’s first communications director in September

Holiday season depression brings rise in suicide attempts

BY TRACY HOUSE

Addicted to heroin, unemployed, suffering from relationship problems and feeling overwhelmed by it all, “Jack” thought the only way out was suicide.

So the Chandler resident put a knife to his throat.

“I was uneasy where I was at in my life,” says Jack, who wished to withhold his last name. “I had a lot of things going wrong in my life and I didn’t know how to express it to anyone; that I needed to talk about it or to let anyone know I was going through something.”

speak with her, but because he saw a glimmer of hope in his future.

“I realized that I had so much more going for me, that I understood it took me to get to that low point to really realize how much I really do have,” he says.

Jack, now 22, was taken to the hospital for evaluation and then spent five days in a psychiatric center for observation.

“I didn’t know what else to do, so I just thought that was the best idea,” he says.

VOLUNTEERING: City Councilman Kevin Hartke, right, participates in a Project Connect event hosted by Chandler and the Valley of the Sun United Way. The program brings together more than 30 human services providers in one location to assist the homeless. Submitted photo SEE HARTKE PAGE 5 SEE SUICIDE PAGE 7

He cut himself, leaving a twoinch scar, but stopped and called his grandmother. He paused not only to

List with Confidence!

Awarded Top Producer at Remax Infinity 2011, 2012, and 2013

Jack’s story is not uncommon— especially during the holidays.

“We do see suicide attempts go

2000, coming to Chandler from Tempe where she served as the community relations manager. She has a bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University with a major in broadcast journalism, and master’s degree in vocational education from Northern Arizona University. She has served as an adjunct faculty member at Arizona State University and Chandler-Gilbert Community College, where she has taught communication and public relations courses.

Clydesdales high step into Chandler

Downtown Chandler was chosen as a location for a very special campaign video featuring the famed Budweiser

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Clydesdales, which paraded Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith through Dr. A.J. Chandler Park in his quest to make Major League Baseball’s Opening Day a national holiday. The day is already an unofficial holiday, with an estimated 22 million Americans admitting to having “played hooky” to attend or watch Opening Day games.

April 2014

Chandler is a STAR Chandler was recognized for its sustainability efforts by STAR Communities, a national leader in rating sustainability efforts of cities, towns and counties.

STAR Communities must demonstrate sustainability across economic, environmental and social performance indicators. As a STAR Pilot Community, Chandler was in the first group of communities nationwide to receive a sustainability rating.

$1.8 Million in refunds claimed Over a 76-day period ending in midApril, 1,636 individuals and families in and around Chandler claimed $1,847,000 in refunds thanks to assistance from volunteers participating in Chandler’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. The refund total included more than $650,000 in Earned Income Tax

Credits (EITC), a credit that IRS research indicates one in four eligible taxpayers fail to claim each year. The opportunity to help families claim the EITC refund prompted the City in 2004 to begin offering free tax preparation services to struggling families.

May 2014

FedEx delivers

Location, location, location. In May, the Chandler Airpark, an important employment area of the City, became a prime location for a 302,000-square-

foot distribution facility for FedEx. The shipping giant announced plans to create its new Southeast Valley distribution center in Chandler. Tibshraeny said having the FedEx Ground facility in Chandler was important to adding diversity to the city’s business base.

June 2014

Mayor honored Tibshraeny received the Maricopa Association of Government’s (MAG) highest honor, the Regional Excellence

been promoting the importance of volunteerism through the For Our City Chandler program since its inception in 2009,” says Leah Powell, Chandler Community Resources & Diversity Manager. “He serves as a role model for others as he personally volunteers for all of the For Our City projects, as well as many more in the community. Being an active, year-round volunteer is a way of life for Councilmember Hartke.”

The councilman’s dedication shows. In addition to his work with For Our City, the Desert Cancer Foundation of Arizona’s board, the Public Policy Committee at the Chandler Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership and about five other committees and commissions, Hartke has dedicated time each week as a literacy advocate, reading to fifth and sixth graders through the Book Pal program and tutoring third and fourth graders at Galveston Elementary for the past eight years.

“Kevin Hartke is one of the greatest gifts Galveston has had,” says Maria Acosta of Hartke in her nomination. “He is very dedicated and clearly exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding volunteer. He always has a positive attitude and devotes much of his time and energy to working with our students.”

Hartke’s service in various forms, whether at Galveston and elsewhere, is impressive and has spanned all three decades of his residency in Chandler. He believes that giving back is something that everyone should do.

City Councilman Kevin Hartke, green shirt, and a group of volunteers prepare to clean up the community during the annual For Our City Day event. Submitted photo

education spurs him on.

“Education is a game maker and game changer for kids,” he says. “When children learn to read and enjoy reading, the world opens up to them in amazing ways.”

University.

Volunteers like Hartke, who spend time working with elementary students on a regular basis, are making lasting impacts in students’ lives, and more volunteers can only further the cause of keeping kids in schools and creating brighter futures for children in Arizona and across the nation.

“I don’t know of a school that cannot use more volunteers,” Hartke says. “I would love to see every school in Chandler adopted by faith communities, businesses and other philanthropic organizations.”

Hartke is also involved in a citywide, annual backpack drive that distributes thousands of backpacks to children who attend Title One schools—or who are in need—and allows nonprofit and faith organizations to get involved. Hartke works to give students the physical and educational tools that they need to succeed.

“I was tremendously honored by the award,” Hartke says. “I believe that we are all wired to find a way to give back and serve our community. Giving is innate. Whether the calling motivates us to give our time, expertise or money, we all have it.”

As Outstanding Volunteer, he was specifically recognized for his work with Galveston students, an effort that he could easily set aside, considering his numerous other responsibilities. However, his belief in the life-changing power of

Although he has dedicated his life to pouring into the community, he sees a high demand and crucial need in schools, where even just one hour each week can make an enormous impact on a child’s life.

According to a study by the American Educational Research Association in New Orleans, students who are unable to read on grade level by third grade are four times less likely to graduate from high school by age 19. By sixth grade, chronic absences, failing math or language arts scores, and other warning signs indicate a 90 percent risk that students won’t graduate on time, according to a study by Robert Balfanz of Johns Hopkins

Although the councilman gives back on multiple levels, it is his work with the youngest members of the community that will perhaps have the most lasting impact on Chandler’s future. The children who have benefited from the hours he spends at Galveston Elementary each week, who now have a better chance at grasping opportunities and success in the future, are a testament to why his efforts are indeed so outstanding.

Curt Blakeney is the associate editor of the SanTan Sun News. He can be reached at curt@santansun.com.

Weninger named to three state legislative committees

Chandler Councilman Jeff Weninger, newly elected to the Arizona House of Representatives in District 17, is serving on three legislative committees when he takes state office in January. He is appointed vice chairman of the Banking and Financial Services Committee and also serves on the Elections and the Ways and Means committees.

“I look forward to serving Chandler and the surrounding region in a new capacity as a state representative,” says Weninger, who has served on the Chandler City Council since June 2006.

Weninger has been a Chandler resident since 1997 and owns five Valley restaurants, including Dilly’s Deli and Floridino’s Pizza and Pasta, a Chandler fixture for 17 years. He is a past member of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council Board and has served on the board of directors for the Chandler Symphony Orchestra. He is active in the community, coaching youth soccer, supporting ICAN through the Business Donor Club and serving on the Child Help Arizona Advisory Board.

up around the holidays,” says Janelle Westfall, clinical director of Devereux Arizona, a nonprofit behavioral health network.

People assume that the holidays are supposed to be a “happy time.” If that doesn’t happen, depression may set in.

Individuals with depression, mood disorders, bi-polar disorder or mental illness are at risk when enduring the stresses of the holidays, added duties and financial issues.

“So all of those are just regular stressors anyways, and then the holidays just compounded into such a short period of time that leads to that extra stress,” she says.

Ask a question, save a life

Westfall says that concerned friends and family should approach a potentially depressed person with caution. The person should be at ease. Being open and asking if a person is having thoughts of suicide is where to begin.

“We have to be forthright,” she says. “We have to ask those questions and make the person feel comfortable so that they say, ‘Yeah, I am kind of having these thoughts.’”

Asking follow-up questions can elicit more information and help determine if contacting a hotline is necessary. Questions such as: “Are they happening all the time?” “Do you have any plans?” “Do you know what you would do?”

Westfall says that if the person has a plan, calling a hotline is a logical next step.

“Not just saying, ‘Here’s some information, you should probably call this number.’ At that point, if the person is talking about specifics, or they have some kind of planning that’s going on, you need to be with them to try to initiate an intervention to make sure it gets done.”

It’s essential to support a person who is suicidal or who has attempted suicide.

“The person that’s depressed can’t do it,” Westfall says. “They have their support group that surrounds them that can do that for them. By the time they’re at that level, the problem-solving ability is out the window. They’re not going to be able to do long-range planning.”

Taboo

Suicide crosses all lines—money, fame, race, age. People don’t like to talk about it because it’s uncomfortable.

“There is a common misconception that you will give the person the idea to commit suicide,” Westfall says. “This is not true. More often, the person has been thinking about it for some time and is relieved to be able to talk about it with someone else. It is important for people to realize that there is help available and not to be afraid to ask for help.

“It’s a mental illness,” Westfall continues. “It’s the messaging when you know somebody. ‘I’m not going to deny that you’re down right now. I’m not going to say snap out of it.’ Because those kinds of things really frustrate the individual, but, ‘Whatever we’re in right now, we’re just in it right now. There will be an out.’”

Westfall stresses to let the person know they will get through this. “If they just have that glimmer of hope, they can get through it. We’re not going to deny it. We’re not going to say, ‘You’re not depressed. You’re not upset. That this isn’t a horrible time for you.’”

Instead she explains, “Let’s just get through today. Let’s just get through the next day.”

Tracy House is a freelance writer for SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at tracy@santansun.com.

Suicide warning signs

Suicide warning signs and risk factors are important to note. Here are some of the most common ones.

Warning Signs:

• Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill oneself

• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live

• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly

• Sleeping too little or too much

• Withdrawn or feeling isolated

• Displaying extreme mood swings

Risk factors:

• A history of or current mental health issues

• Alcohol and other substance use

• A feeling of hopelessness

• Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies

• History of trauma or abuse

• Family history of suicide

• Job or financial loss

• Loss of a significant relationship

• Lack of health care, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment For the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, call (800) 273-TALK (8255). For Maricopa County, call (800) 631-1314 and (602) 222-9444.

City of Chandler Insider

Award, at the association’s 2014 Desert Peaks Awards ceremony. He was recognized for his longtime service to Chandler and the region, most notably his work in creating, protecting and preserving the Price Corridor. The Price Corridor is a major employment corridor, attracting high-tech, highwage jobs to the area. Additionally, Chandler and six neighboring East Valley cities were honored with MAG’s Regional Partnership Award for a collaboration that resulted in the formation of the East Valley Recycling Alliance. Also in June, the mayor received the 2014 Chamber of Commerce Chandler Community Cup Award in recognition of his longstanding service to the City. Intel and Air Products nominated the mayor for the award, which goes to individuals who demonstrate outstanding volunteerism and commitment to community. He was lauded for his deep understanding of the issues facing the business community, his outreach to members of the Chamber and business executives in the City, and his economic development efforts in securing highwage jobs for residents.

July 2014

New utility billing system implemented

The City rolled out a new utility billing and payment system that offers customers more payment options, convenience, security and online resources. However, the switch to the new system presented some unexpected technical and communication issues. While many customers experienced a smooth transition to the new system, others did not. City offi cials apologized for the technical issues and any inconvenience they may have caused, and thanked customers for their patience while the organization worked to resolve the problems and fulfi ll the promise of an imp roved utility billing and payment system.

Chandler Fire becomes Chandler Fire, Health & Medical

On July 27, the Chandler Fire Department became the Chandler Fire, Health & Medical Department to better refl ect the services being provided. The department has evolved since 1937 to become an internationally

accredited agency that responds to a variety of calls with 12 front-line apparatus and 187 line fi refi ghters. As the demand for services has changed, the name “fi re” by itself no longer fully describes the services provided. Firefi ghter paramedics, for example, respond to medical emergencies, provide preventative health education and participate in numerous community health clinics.

Compadre Stadium razed

Long-deserted Compadre Stadium was razed to make way for a new housing development, Echelon at Ocotillo. The stadium, located on the southeast corner of Alma School and Ocotillo roads, hosted Cactus League spring training for the Milwaukee Brewers from 1986 to 1997, when the team moved to Maryvale.

The new gated, residential community will include 137 townhouses and 181 single-family homes. Echelon will have approximately 26 percent open space to include a lake system, three internal parks, a play and lap pool and pedestrian connection to Snedigar Sportsplex to the south.

Parks & Recreation updates brand

The City’s Parks & Recreation Divisions unveiled a new logo and tagline in July. Although the logo had undergone updates in the past, the tagline hadn’t changed in more than 20 years. Considering one of the most common synonyms for parks & recreation is “play,” the divisions’ former tagline, “Come Out and Play Chandler,” was a natural fit. Chandler Parks & Recreation officials believe in the power of play, but offerings expand beyond just play. The divisions set out to establish a tagline that expressed the lifecycle of parks and recreation, spoke to residents and was relatable across the board no matter what an individual’s age, race or socioeconomic standing. After extensive research and development and a review of 25 different logo/tagline options, a new logo and tagline was selected: “Discover. Imagine. Grow.” The logo and tagline reflect the promise to all Chandler residents and visitors that Chandler Parks & Recreation will always be a fun and happy place where they can explore their interests, learn through arts, crafts and nature, enjoy sports and recreational activities, and develop themselves in a healthy, nurturing environment.

August 2014

Mayor re-Elected; council seats filled

Tibshraeny won another term and all three City Council seats were filled at the Aug. 26 primary election. A total of 29,481 ballots were cast out of 131,874 registered Chandler voters, a 22 percent voter turnout. Councilman Kevin Hartke returns for a second term, while Terry Roe and Rene Lopez will fill the vacancies left by Councilmembers Jeff Weninger and Trinity Donovan, who are termed out. Lopez, a member of Chandler’s Parks and Recreation Board, has more than 13 years’ experience as a project manager, most recently with Avnet Inc. Roe is a retired Mesa Police Department sergeant and member of the City’s Police Complaints and Use of Force Citizens’ Review Panel. The mayor and councilmembers will be sworn in at the Jan. 8 City Council meeting.

City hires new communications director

Matt Burdick, the communications director for the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), was named Chandler’s new communications and public affairs director, replacing Nachie Marquez who was promoted to assistant city manager. A long-time Chandler resident, Burdick worked closely with the City for the development, construction and operation of the Price and Santan freeways and its related projects. As Chandler’s communications director,

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he oversees the Mayor and City Council office, public information, video production and print, mail and graphics divisions, as well as Web coordination, publications and having the responsibility of enhancing Chandler’s image locally, regionally and nationally.

Chandler Regional, Garmin and GM celebrate openings

Chandler Regional Medical Center celebrated the opening of Tower C, adding 96 beds, expanded services, and space and equipment to support a new Level 1 trauma program. The fivestory tower increased the hospital’s bed count to 339 from 243 and expanded several departments and services, including emergency, radiology, surgical and intensive care. Also in August, Kansas-based GPS device manufacturer, Garmin International, opened a new 60,000-square-foot facility in the Chandler Corporate Center at Juniper Drive and Galveston Street. Garmin has leased space in the Chandler area for five years, and the new facility will add an estimated 140 jobs over the next three years. General Motors also made a splash in Chandler when it opened one of four national “innovation centers”

near Frye Road and Loop 101, bringing 500 high-paying jobs and the promise of more to come. The centers are part of a companywide transformation to improve performance, reduce the cost of ongoing operations and increase its delivery of innovation.

September 2014

Mayor announces Teen Leadership Academy

A Teen Leadership Academy designed to engage and encourage Chandler’s next generation of community and neighborhood leaders was announced by Tibshraeny during his September Listening Tour stop at Arizona College Prep. Applications were received from 37 high school juniors and seniors, from which 22 teens will be selected to

attend the March academy and work on special group projects, receive leadership coaching and participate in a mock City Council meeting.

Rainfall sets record, tests storm drain system

Chandler experienced record rainfall on Sept. 8 when more than five-anda-half inches of rain fell over an eighthour period, filling retention basins and flooding streets. The City’s storm drainage systems performed as designed with basins, parks and drywells handling an extraordinary volume of storm water runoff. Many departments were involved in the response, working extended hours and increasing staffing levels to address the overwhelming need for immediate services.

Community mourns loss of officers

The police department and community suffered a tremendous loss when two officers were killed within four days in unrelated motorcycle collisions. Officer Bryant Holmes was involved in a fatal traffic collision in Gilbert on Oct. 28 as he rode his personal motorcycle to work and Motorcycle Officer David Payne was struck by a vehicle Oct. 31 while he was on duty and stopped for a red light. Holmes had been with the Chandler Police Department for five years and Payne for seven years. Their tragic loss is a reminder of the tremendous sacrifices made by our public safety personnel, as well as the support that exists within the community that rallied to support the families.

New parks dedicated

Valencia Park and Centennial Park were dedicated and will serve the neighborhood park needs for their respective square miles. The 10-acre Valencia Park is located a quarter-mile west of Lindsay Road between Cloud Road and Jewel Boulevard. Centennial Park is 11 acres and located at Emmett and Markwood drives between Cooper and Gilbert roads. The City’s system of neighborhood parks is intended to serve Chandler’s residential areas with a variety of passive and active recreational facilities. Typical amenities included in neighborhood parks are lighted paths,

City of Chandler Insider

playgrounds, sand volleyball courts, basketball courts, ramadas, open space and landscaping.

Dwellings to rise From old steelyard

Groundbreaking occurred on a new development, Alta Steelyard Lofts, that will add residents and pedestrians to downtown Chandler. The 301-unit luxury apartment community is being built on the southwest corner of Frye and Delaware streets and will contribute to the downtown area’s vibrant, urban core and enable new residents to work and enjoy downtown amenities without having to drive.

Roadwork begins in Southeast Chandler

More than $12 million in grants from the federal Surface Transportation Program and Highway Safety Improvement Program enabled Chandler to move forward with three South Chandler road imp rovement projects that had been pushed back several years due to the sluggish economy and declines in City revenue. Widening began on Gilbert Road between Chandler Heights Road and Hunt Highway, McQueen Road between Ocotillo and Chandler Heights roads, and Ocotillo Road between Arizona Avenue and McQueen Road. The construction will widen the streets from two to four lanes and include bike lanes, sidewalks, curbs and gutters, street lighting, turn lanes, traffic signals, storm drainage, medians and landscaping.

November 2014

Tennis Center renovated Tibshraeny, the Chandler City Council, and members of the Parks and Recreation Board re-dedicated the Chandler Tennis Center in November following the replacement of 15 asphalt courts with 15 new post-tensioned concrete courts. Most municipal Valley tennis centers have gone to posttensioned concrete as a way to reduce surface cracking. Also included in the new construction was a three-court hitting wall, seating walls and updated landscaping.

Lions Club and former mayor inducted into Celebration Plaza

The City honored one individual and one organization by inducting them into Celebration Plaza at Tumbleweed Park. The Chandler Lions Club and former Mayor Coy Payne were recognized for their many contributions and good works on behalf of the people of Chandler. Celebration Plaza is a permanent monument near the center of the park, located on the southwest corner of McQueen and Germann roads, and features a fountain and a decorative wall used to display brass plaques honoring organizations or individuals for their civic leadership, public outreach and outstanding personal service and commitment to the community. The inductees are selected by the Chandler City Council, based on recommendations from the Parks and Recreation Board.

Elevation Chandler leveled

Elevation Chandler, which sat unfinished for nearly a decade at the Loop 101 and Loop 202 freeway interchange, was demolished in November to the delight of bystanders and City officials. A development called Chandler Viridian will take its place and consist of offices, a six-story hotel and retail along a pedestrian promenade leading to Chandler Fashion Center. Alliance Residential, which bought land from Chandler Viridian’s developer, will begin building luxury apartments on the site in 2015. Construction on the horizontal infrastructure for the commercial properties is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2015. The hotel, office and retail projects will begin construction later in 2015 and into 2016.

December 2014

Economic development director named

Micah Miranda has been hired as Chandler’s new economic development

City of Chandler Insider

director effective Dec. 29. He comes to Chandler from the City of Maricopa, where he has served as the City’s economic development director since 2012. Prior to that, he served as economic development specialist for the City of Tempe, (2008-2012), Bioscience Business Attraction manager for the Arizona Department of Commerce (2005-2008) and held various economic development roles with the City of Mesa (2002-2005). Miranda replaces Christine Mackay who left in August to become Phoenix’s director of Community and Economic Development.

Long-Time City employee named engineer

Chandler’s acting city engineer, Dan Cook, was officially appointed to

the position in December. An 18-year employee, Cook joined the City in 1996 as a public works engineer in the engineering division and was responsible for establishing the development impact fee system, the real estate division and the GIS division. In February 1998, he was promoted to assistant public works director for transportation and operations where he managed the streets, traffic engineering and transit divisions. Cook earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering

from the University of Minnesota and is a registered professional civil engineer in the states of Arizona, California and Minnesota. Before joining the City, Cook was a design project manager and director of municipal engineering for three consulting engineering firms in Arizona and Minnesota. He is also a member of the enforcement committee with the Arizona Board of Technical Registration and is a structural engineer with the Phoenix Fire Department Urban Search and Rescue Task Force.

2014 Awards and Recognitions

Accolades for the City abound in 2014. Chandler often placed on the top of lists by local and national organizations. Take a look at how we fared on several lists:

• Third place for Best Cities for Working Parents by Forbes.com and NerdWallet.com

• Fifth Best Cities for Disabled People by WalletHub.com

• Seventh Best Cities for Halloween by WalletHub.com

• 10th Best Cities for Hispanic Entrepreneurs by WalletHub.com

• 13th Best Cities for Wallet Wellness by WalletHub.com

• 13th Best Cities for Veterans by WalletHub.com

• Top 10 Safest Cities by Movoto Real Estate

• Top 20 Best Cities for Pet Lovers by WalletHub.com

• Top 50 Meeting Destinations in the United States by cvent.com

• Top 50 Places to Retire in the United States by WalletHub.com

• Top 100 Most RecessionRecovered Cities by Wallet Hub. com

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

Fundraiser to benefit girl in need of surgery

BY TRACY HOUSE

Like many other 9 year olds, Savanah Castanon likes “Frozen,” Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and playing baseball, but unlike other children her age, each day Savanah must endure a crippling, painful bone disease, multiple hereditary exostoses (MHE).

Diagnosed in 2007 with MHE, Savanah is a happy girl despite the pain, according to her father, Edward Castanon.

“She’s looking forward to Christmas,” he says. “She wants a ‘Frozen’ doll.”

Multiple hereditary exostoses is a condition in which people develop multiple benign bone tumors called exostoses. Savanah requires additional surgery to remove these tumors, so the family is counting on a benefit at Talebu Coffee & Wine Café from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, to help pay the copays.

“We’re going to do a concert,” Castanon says. “There will be different musicians playing for the two hours.”

Local bands have been invited to participate, there will be a video of Savanah and she will sing a song, Castanon says.

Talebu will donate 10 percent of the proceeds, during the fundraiser, for Savanah’s benefit. While Miracle Flights is providing the air transportation to Florida, Castanon says the insurance deductible and other out-of-pocket expenses will be in excess of $8,000.

Talebu Coffee & Wine Cafe is located at 2095 N. Alma School Rd., Suite 2, Chandler. To contact Edward Castanon for more information or to donate to Savanah’s fundraiser, call (928) 287-4914.

Besides having MHE, Savanah is autistic. She is a student at Lauren’s Institute for Education and she’s also

taking singing lessons at the Neurologic Music Therapy Services of Arizona through a scholarship she received from Safeway.

Savanah will fight MHE her whole life, as the bone masses will continue to grow. As they become debilitating and painful, surgery is necessary to relieve and correct the deformity.

“They deal with them as they begin to transform her body, twist her body, turn her body,” he says. “The only way to help her is through surgery.”

Savanah was 4 years old when she had her first operation. She is scheduled for surgery Thursday, Feb. 12, in West Palm Beach, Florida.

“This will be her fourth surgery. She was diagnosed at 1 1/2, her first surgery was on her finger when she was 4. She’s had two surgeries on her fingers, the third surgery was on her knee and her ankle.”

This time around, she’s having surgery on her hip and both of her knees.

“What they’re going to do is shave off excess bone mass,” Castanon says. “The hip surgery is a pretty extensive surgery.”

Savanah will remain in Florida for three to four weeks for intensive physical therapy. With two other special needs children at home, Castanon isn’t sure if he or his wife will accompany Savanah to Florida.

Tracy House is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at news@santansun.com.

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St. Andrew the Apostle assists Haitian orphanage

BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON

A congregant of St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Faith Community, Stella Tomlinson extends her level of service beyond the borders of her church campus.

She is part of a committee of fellow parishioners that has traveled to Jeremie, Haiti, to support Our Lady of Perpetual Help Orphanage. Tomlinson joins the group of dedicated volunteers who has been assisting the orphanage since the church began its mission of care in November 2010.

“Being part of the committee and understanding the area and how what we’re doing makes a very big difference is extremely rewarding to me,” Tomlinson says.

“Whether there is a big project or not, we spend quite a bit of one-on-one time with the kids doing activities and getting to know them more and that is fantastic.”

Church volunteers have made 12 visits to the orphanage. Tomlinson has gone three times so far and has plans to go again in March. She has known many of the children for four years and has bonded with them.

Cathy Olds is the coordinator of adult formation and social outreach at St. Andrew.

“In 2009, we had a parishioner who was one of our winter visitors and she had been involved in a Haiti ministry at her parish in Connecticut,” Olds recalls.

That parishioner encouraged those at St. Andrew to contribute financially to the Haiti orphanage.

After the devastating Haiti earthquake in 2010, there were 30 children in the orphanage and the number began to grow.

“Father Garry Louis, the founder of the orphanage, wanted to make sure the kids all got into school,” Olds explains.

“We were already helping with food and clothing, so we picked up the

tuition, too. Shortly after, we took a group down there and Stella was among the first groups that went. Once people get there, they fall in love with these kids.”

The orphanage is considered a St. Andrew parish outreach instead of a separate project that only certain parishioners support. On a recent trip to the orphanage, the St. Andrew volunteers constructed three-tier bunk beds for the children so they wouldn’t have to sleep on mats on the floor.

Tasks completed at the orphanage depend on its immediate needs.

“We’re working on a project right now where we’re going to tile the girls’ bathroom and do some painting,” Olds says.

“We’ve had a couple parishioners who have stepped up and said, ‘I’ll pay for that.’ We’ve had some great response from some individual parishioners who are getting passionate about this connection and what we can do to help the orphanage.”

St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Faith Community is located 3450 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Visit www.standrew-cfc. org/haiti-outreach.php or call (480) 899-1990 for additional information and ways to help financially support the orphanage.

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Irrigation line leak set to be repaired

The Chandler City Council met at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, and Thursday, Dec. 11, and took action on many agenda items, including:

• Approved an agreement with SDB Inc., for construction services to repair a leaking Salt River Project irrigation line that crosses under McQueen Road at Queen Creek Road. The City is working with SRP for repair costs reimbursement.

• Amended the zoning on a 29-acre parcel on the southwest corner of Gilbert and Ocotillo roads, changing it to permit construction of a Fry’s grocery store, gas station and retail shops.

During a study session following the meeting:

• Mayor and council recognized Capt. David Anderson for serving 25 years with the Chandler Fire, Health & Medical Department, as well as 15year employees Deborah Higuera, an IT programmer, and Penelope Malia, an accounting manager.

• The mayor proclaimed Dec. 8 as NAACP – East Valley Chapter Day in Chandler, recognized graduates of the City’s Traditional and HOA Academies, and noted graduates of the City’s Professional Development Program.

• Chandler High School football coaches and players were congratulated for winning the Division 1 State Championship, and the staff from the City’s Budget Office was recognized for receiving the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award by the Government Finance Officers’ Association for the 27th consecutive year.

• Mike Perry with the American Cancer Society provided information about the upcoming Relay for Life fundraiser and thanked the mayor and council for their continued support of the event. The next relay is May 1 at Basha High School.

The council also met at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, and took action on 54

agenda items, including:

• Selected Vintage Partners as the developer of Sites one, two and three on the southwest corner of Arizona Avenue and Chandler Boulevard. The Council authorized staff to begin working on a development agreement for a commercial center anchored by Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, an eightscreen movie theater featuring food and drink service. As part of the zoning process, neighborhood meetings will be conducted to gain citizen input. Plans include future development of retail space, 48 residential units, and a parking structure.

• Approved the rezoning, design and site layout for a mixed-use residential and commercial development called DC Heights to be located on a 5.3-acre parcel in downtown Chandler at the southwest corner of Commonwealth Avenue and California Street. Up to 250 units will be constructed and provisions allow for the northeast portion of the development to reach heights up to 130 feet.

• Approved the rezoning, design and site layout for the Avilla Homes development planned for a 15-acre parcel located behind the former Target store north of Warner Road, west of Arizona Avenue. The gated multi-family residential community will consist of 194 one-story units, many of which will be detached apartment homes.

• Approved the rezoning, design and site layout for a new Catholic Church, St. Juan Diego, planned for a 10-acre parcel located at the northwest corner of Cooper Road and Markwood Drive, south of Queen Creek Road.

• Approved the rezoning, design and site layout for a hotel to be located south of the southwest comer of Chandler Boulevard and Chandler Village Drive. The four-story, 107room Element Hotel, will be built southeast of The Met multi-family residential development that is under

construction.

• Established an Entertainment District in downtown Chandler that allows the City, on a case-by-case basis, to app rove an exemption from the requirement that retailers with liquor licenses be at least 300 feet away from a church or school. Forming an Entertainment District provides greater flexibility to promote all uses within an urbanized area, particularly downtown.

• Approved a contract of up to $142,500 with the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety for the purchase of three fully equipped vehicles for the Traffic Unit DUI Team utilizing a grant from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The vehicles will facilitate the DUI Team’s transition from motorcycles to motor vehicles to enhance officer safety and increase operational efficiency.

• Approved a $249,975 agreement with Partners for Strategic Action, a consulting firm, to assist planning staff in updating the City’s General Plan, which was last updated in 2008.

• Awarded an $891,520 consulting contract to CH2M HILL Engineers Inc., to update the City’s Water, Wastewater and Reclaimed Water master plans.

• Awarded an $899,847 construction contract to CSW Contractors, Inc. for improvements to the Lone Butte Water Reclamation Facility operated by the City and located on the Gila River Indian Community. The project includes construction of a new filter backwash pump station, sediment collection structure, electrical and control equipment, and associated piping.

• Awarded a $366,059 construction contract to Builders Guild Inc., for renovation of the Copper Room and several adjoining rooms located on the second floor of the Downtown Chandler Library.

• Approved a special event liquor license for the Arizona Cardinals’ Big Red Rage Radio Show which was

scheduled to hold a fundraiser for fallen officers from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at Majerle’s Sports Grill, 3095 W. Chandler Blvd., This meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m. At the conclusion of the meeting, Mayor Jay Tibshraeny encouraged residents to share their ideas and priorities on the City’s budget by taking an online budget survey at www. chandleraz.gov/budget.

City Manager Rich Dlugas reported on the recent selection of Micah Miranda as the City’s new economic development director, effective Dec. 29. Miranda comes to Chandler from the City of Maricopa where he served as the City’s economic development director. Prior experience includes working as an economic development specialist for the City of Tempe, bioscience business attraction manager for the Arizona Department of Commerce, and handling various economic development roles with the City of Mesa.

Finally, the mayor and council wished everyone a joyous holiday season and Happy New Year.

The next meeting of the City Council will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8. Council meetings are aired live, as well as replayed on The Chandler Channel, Cable Channel 11 and streamed on the Web at www.chandleraz.gov/video.

Chandler couple newest $1 million Health & Wealth Raffle winner

A Chandler couple has much to be thankful for this holiday.

“This is absolutely unbelievable” were among first words uttered by Jeff Gross when St. Joseph’s Hospital president Patty White announced he was the lucky $1 million grand prize winner of the Fall Health & Wealth Raffle, benefiting Barrow and St. Joseph’s.

“I don’t even look at the prizes because I never expected I’d win anything,” says Gross, an IT specialist who accepted his $1 million check during a surprise announcement with his wife, Allison, and Arizona Cardinals mascot Big Red by his side.

“But I’ve learned from experience that this is such a good cause, so I’ve bought one ticket in every raffle since 2010.”

It was over the Christmas holidays four years ago when the Chandler couple received a call that Gross’ father had suffered a severe brain hemorrhage and was air-evacuated for treatment at Barrow Neurological Institute at Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center.

“I didn’t know much about Bar row before that, but I learned by experience that it’s one of the best in the country,” he says. “The care my dad received was amazing. Plus, my family was treated so well.”

Still stunned by the news of their cash prize, the couple had no idea how they would spend their winnings, except to say they knew it would be a great Christmas.

“We thought maybe we’d win something small, like a blender,” adds Allison, a music therapist who works with special-needs children. “This is definitely a lot better than a blender.”

“It just goes to show that anybody can be winner,” says Gross. “It only takes one ticket.”

To sign up for raffle news and information as well as see a complete list of Fall 2014 raffle winners, visit www.HealthWealthRaffle.org.East Valley wins big in early draw for Health & Wealth Raffle

They weren’t the only winners from Chandler. Mike Hubbs of Chandler

was more than surprised to be named a Health & Wealth Raffle early draw winner on his birthday, winning a check for $10,000.

“I play to win, but since I’ve been in health care for most of my life, I also play to give back to the community,” he says of his commitment to the Health & Wealth Raffle. “This is a great way to donate.”

The Health & Wellness Raffle is the

first fundraiser of its kind in Arizona and one of the largest fundraisers for Barrow Neurological Institute and St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center. Proceeds from the Health & Wellness Raffle go to research, medical education and patient care at Barrow and St. Joseph’s. The majority of prizes and services to run the raffle are purchased in the state of Arizona, contributing to the state’s economy.

ICAN’s Jimro named outstanding professional

Melissa Jimro, senior vice president of programs and community impact at Chandler ICAN, was named Outstanding Out-of-School Time Professional at the 2014 Arizona Center for Afterschool Excellence Out-Of-School Time Awards of Excellence Luncheon.

Jimro oversees the delivery of programs that include healthy lifestyles, substance abuse prevention, gang prevention, personal and leadership development, job skills and homework assistance. Among her successes was serving as lead liaison on the first DPR School of Construction in June that attracted 97 youth. In 2013, Chandler ICAN was named the Outstanding Out-of-School Time Program.

Also, at this year’s awards, Dr. Lupita Hightower, superintendent of the Tolleson Elementary School District, received the

Jane Romatzke Leadership Award and Native American for Community Action’s Pathways Youth Program, a free substanceabuse prevention program serving Flagstaff’s at-risk Native American youth, received the Outstanding Program award.

More than 700 out-of-school professionals from around the state attended the December event where Dr. Kent Scribner, superintendent of the Phoenix Union High School District, received the 2014 Afterschool Champion Award.

Winners received a cash award, certificate of recognition from Gov. Jan Brewer and paid admission to three Arizona Center for Afterschool professional development training sessions. Find out more at www. azafterschool.org.

Photo by ACAE

Intel and Girls Scouts donate holiday gifts

About Care, support services for the homebound elderly and disabled, thanks Intel and other community groups for their generosity during the holidays. Intel employees provided more than 150 wrapped holiday presents to be distributed to homebound neighbors.

Local Girl Scout Troop’s 166 members, the About Care board of directors and other volunteers played elves and delivered the gifts. One recipient said she hadn’t received a gift in years and was overwhelmed by

the generosity. About Care also thanked Without Walls Christian Church, which provides free holiday meals.

The support organization also issued a reminder that as the end of the year approaches, people should consider making a tax-deductible donation to their cause. Volunteers are also welcome. Find out more at www.aboutcare.org.

AlphaGraphics Chandler-Gilbert celebrates #GivingTuesday by announcing its Increase Your Reach Awards. Four awards totaling $5,000 in services and products are being given to local nonprofits. Brandon Bagley, owner of the Chandler-Gilbert store, points out that a critical part of the work these organizations do is the ability to spread the word about their mission effectively and efficiently.

Awards include:

• Full service graphic design

• Printed marketing materials

• Large format signage

• Consulting services for development strategy

• List consultation and acquisition Award applications are accepted through Dec. 31. A panel of judges, including nonprofit and community leaders, will evaluate applications and select the final recipients. Applications will be judged based on how the proposed project impacts the community, the clarity of the proposed project and how the project directly promotes the organization’s mission. Final award winners will be announced by Jan. 31. Interested 501(c)(3) organizations can submit their application at www.alphagives.com/ santansun.

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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 Road, Chandler. Many 2015 Arizona state legislators, members of the Chandler, Kyrene, Tempe and Mesa governing boards, the corporation commission and more are attending.

The featured speaker will be Dick Castner from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce presenting his perspective on the “fiscal cliff” 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.

Chandler and Gilbert among Top 10 safest municipalities in the nation

The Movoto Real Estate blog’s annual listing of the nation’s Top 10 Safest Cities places Gilbert as number one, Chandler number six and Scottsdale ninth. The real estate group uses the most recent FBI Uniform Crime Report to assess the 100 largest cities.

To more fairly compare places with a wide range of population sizes, they calculate crime rates based on crimes per capita. Rankings are also weighted so that murders, violent crimes and property crimes each made up 30 percent of the overall score, whereas the total number of crimes accounted for a smaller portion of the final score at 10 percent.

Gilbert had the lowest score, placing it at the top of the rankings, beating out

Irvine, California, last year’s safest place. Gilbert had only one murder reported in 2013, compared to cities of similar sizes like Birmingham, Alabama, and Cincinnati, Ohio, which had 60 to 70. The city also had the second lowest violent crime and property crime rates, as well as the second lowest total crime rate.

Chandler had the fourth lowest murders per capita, the ninth lowest violent crime and a very low number of robberies. The 14th lowest property crime rate, with very few vehicle thefts, helped give Chandler the 11th lowest crime ranking overall.

For a look at the entire list, go to www.movoto.com/blog/top-ten/safestplaces-2014.

Grant funds increase seat belt and safety seat enforcement

The Chandler Police Department is using a $20,000 grant from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety to increase enforcement of seat belt laws. Although Arizona has a secondary seat belt law, the enforcement campaign is based on high visibility traffic enforcement with a zerotolerance approach toward seat belt and child safety seat usage. As a part of the national Click-It-Or-Ticket seat belt enforcement campaign, officers from Chandler Police Department’s Traffic Unit are increasing enforcement efforts to drive home the message: Buckle Up Arizona...It’s the Law! Research indicates that regular seat belt use is the single most effective way to protect people and reduce fatalities in motor vehicle crashes. When worn correctly, seat belts reduce serious crash-related injuries and deaths by 50 percent.

Tips for a safe holiday season from Chandler PD

This year’s holiday shopping season is here and the Chandler Police Department warns that added stress and a lack of focus can lead to victimization or tragedy.

When you’re out shopping, conceal any items of value in your vehicle. Remember where you parked and which

DEADLINES FOR SANTAN SUN NEWS

The deadline for news and advertising is 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23, for the Saturday, Jan. 3, 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.

door or store entrance you used when shopping at a mall. Park your vehicle in a well-lit area and, whenever possible, avoid shopping alone.

Be aware of your surroundings in the parking lot and while you’re shopping, and avoid looking down at your mobile phone when you should be watching for

potential dangers around you. Try not to be overloaded with shopping bags because this makes you an easy target for thieves.

Also, try to avoid confrontations with other shoppers or drivers; defensive driving and roadway courtesy can prevent a collision or road rage incident.

Celebrate holidays with Nabers

For some, spending time with the family can be cumbersome during the holiday season. So, Nabers in Chandler is hosting two special events this December.

It’s time to “Escape the In-Laws” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23, when the restaurant holds a trivia contest. Everyone is encouraged to wear their best ugly sweater for a contest that night. Musical guest Ryan Sims takes the stage at 8:30 p.m. and a bag tourney begins at 9 p.m. The winner of trivia will receive a tablet, and the ugly sweater contest winner receives a Bluetooth speaker. The bag tourney winner will receive Nabers buck. There will be $3 domestic drafts and $2 Fireball shots.

“The holidays are all about spending time with family but sometimes you just need a place to unwind,” says the appropriately named Denise Holliday, Nabers’ general manager.

For those who stay out a little too late celebrating the night before, Nabers has them covered. This year, the Chandler restaurant is offering free Christmas gift wrapping from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24, for all customers who come in and enjoy lunch.

“We are your neighborhood hangout and we are going to take care of anyone who is stressed out and needs some help,” Holliday says. “Bring in the gifts you know you don’t want to hassle with and while you eat you can check wrapping presents off your to do list.”

Nabers is a locally owned and operated restaurant in Chandler that opened last August. The venue focuses on tasty food, great drinks and good music throughout the week. The restaurant and bar is located at 825 N 54th St. For more information, visit www.nabersaz.com.

If you do encounter a conflict situation, leave the area and contact the police.

The final bit of advice from the department is to always wear your seat belt and to designate a driver when alcohol consumption is a part of your holiday celebration.

Register to receive emergency alerts on mobile phones

The Chandler Police Department uses the Community Emergency Notification System to rapidly notify a specific area of the city of an emergency. CENS, also known as Reverse 9-1-1, sends a recorded message to business, landline and mobile phones to notify residents of emergencies, weather-related events, missing children or vulnerable adults, and police incidents. Users must register their cellular phones with Maricopa Region 9-1-1 to receive these notifications. Find out more at www. maricopa.gov/emerg_mgt/CENS.aspx or contact Detective Seth Tyler at (480) 782-4105.