6 21 2014 stsn p25 34 youth

Great Play of Chandler offers fun and safe camps for kids

BY ALISON STANTON

As the parents of four children, Patrick O’Halleran and Jen Howell understand how important it is for kids to have fun while staying physically active. Although their kids now range in age from 17 to 21, they remember how challenging it could be keeping young children busy and happy during the long and hot summer months.

As co-owners of Great Play of Chandler, O’Halleran and Howell are committed to helping foster a love of physical activity in children, while also providing their parents with a welcoming place to come and meet other moms and dads.

“We provide great activities for kids, but we’ve also seen many parents making new friends while they are here,” O’Halleran says.

From classes for young kids to summer camps, birthday parties and more, O’Halleran says Great Play of Chandler offers something for all kids age 6 months to 12 years.

“The beauty of Great Play is our inside gym,” he says.

A patented “Interactive Arena” on three of the four walls uses a combination of computer technology, image projection and directional sound so kids feel like they are part of their own Wii game while taking part in physical fitness activities.

“We also have open gym times six days a week for $10 a session, which is a

great opportunity for parents and their kids to drop in.”

The summer camps, which Howell says run through July 31, are especially popular. These include adventure camp for kids ages 3 to 6 and sports skills camps for kindergartners through fifth grade. To help make sure that kids are playing with others close to their size and age, participants in the classes are 18 to 24 months apart, and the curriculum changes every 19 weeks.

O’Halleran and Howell took over as co-owners of Great Play of Chandler last December.

“I had worked for both Honeywell and American Express, and just wanted to do something different,” O’Halleran says.

“Jen and I are both passionate about working with kids, so I left the corporate world, and within a month we went from not knowing what a franchise was to owning one. It’s been a nice opportunity for us and really exciting.”

One of the first things they did, O’Halleran says, was repaint the gym and renovate the lobby.

“We put in a lot of time cleaning the gym, and there’s been a lot of effort to make Great Play really clean,” he says.

There’s also a strong emphasis on safety, with a 5 to 1 coach to child ratio.

Both adults and kids are impressed with Great Play of Chandler’s bright, cheerful and welcoming interior, Howell says.

“When people walk in, I often hear them say, ‘Oh, I want to go here!’” she says.

“It’s so different, and so alive with all of the music and colors.”

Great Play of Chandler is located at 2855 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. For more

Alison Stanton is a freelance writer who lives in the East Valley. She can be reached at alison@santansun.com

Operation Back to School Chandler accepting donations

BY ALISON STANTON

Thanks to the efforts of Operation Back to School Chandler, thousands of the City’s children will start school July 21 with new backpacks fi lled with much-needed supplies.

Operation Back to School Chandler allows area organizations to coordinate their efforts to provide low-income elementary, middle school and high school students with supplies, uniforms, underwear, shoes and other items, according to Kevin Hartke, director of For Our City-Chandler which is coordinating the supply drive.

In 2013, more than 3,200 backpacks were distributed to local students. This year’s goal, Hartke says, is to distribute 5,000 backpacks at a donation event in July.

“About four years ago, we realized that many organizations were handing out backpacks, and so we wanted to do something that would get rid of the duplicity,” says Hartke, who is also a Chandler city councilman.

“We target Title One schools and summer lunch programs to get information to the students and their families about the event, but every student who shows up will receive help,” he says.

“If we have anything leftover, we will make the items available to the schools throughout the year, as new kids might need them.”

Hartke says local organizations

are welcome to work with Operation Back to School Chandler to pool their efforts and donations and reduce the chances of some kids receiving multiple donations while others might miss out.

Local residents may also donate backpacks and other supplies, but shoes are especially needed.

Through July 14, donations can be made at the Fulton Homes’ “Stuff the Bus” campaign, which is being organized along with ICAN. A full-sized school bus is parked inside Chandler Fashion Center, and volunteers are on hand to accept donations.

Several other Chandler locations are accepting donations through July 1. For a complete list, visit www.forourcity. org/Back_to_School_Drive.html. To make a cash donation via PayPal, visit www.chandlerfoodbank.org and click on the “donation” tab before July 1.

Steve Hewitt, the Chandler Unifi ed School District’s director of community education, says that Operation Back to School Chandler defi nitely helps.

“We saw hundreds of smiles last year,” Hewitt says.

Having a new backpack gives kids a sense of pride.

“I even overheard one new kindergartner tell his mom, ‘Look mom, my very own back pack.’”

Organizations that want to plan a school supply drive or who want

to sponsor Organization Back to School Chandler may contact Niki Tapia at (480) 782-2214 or Niki.Tapia@ chandleraz.gov.

Carebear Preschool At Fulton Ranch and Riggs

Youth

BY TIM J. RANDALL

AZ Scorpions live the Cooperstown dream Open house for online school

Bart

Giamatti,

former Major League Baseball commissioner, reverently spoke of baseball as a “Homeric” journey in which the batter must leave home with their ultimate destination to return there. This “Odyssey” around the bases was the very definition of a life lived, opportunities seized and risks taken.

The 12 young men of the Arizona Scorpions baseball team took a journey on May 30 to Cooperstown, New York, to win a championship and post their name in the pantheon of the national pastime. While the Scorpions’ dream of a Cooperstown championship fell a bit short, Manager Jeremy Stawiecki indicates: “I couldn’t be more proud of these 12 exceptional ball players, who play their best game each and every day.”

Established in 1996, Cooperstown Dreams Park pays tribute to the game with an induction ceremony annually to the American Youth Baseball Hall of Fame. Since 1999 the organization has played host to the American Youth Baseball Hall of Fame Invitational, the National American Tournament of Champions and the American Youth Baseball Hall of Fame “Cooperstown Classic.”

Every week from May through August, 104 teams are invited from around the country to compete and share the love of the game with other

young players.

“It’s not every day you get to play ball in Cooperstown for the chance at a national title,” Stawiecki says.

The team learned of its future peripatetic to the home of baseball in late fall of 2013 after Stawiecki entered the team for the tourney and was accepted. The Scorpions are Todd Stawiecki, Kaiden Frees, John Wiston, Steven Losefsky, Bo Brown, Ryan Stark, Sebastian Gongora, JD Willis, Tyler Smith, Ethan Galetti, Mason Cope and Davis Hubble.

“It is really quite an honor to be chosen as it is a competitive application,” he indicates. The boys, 10 from Chandler and two from Tempe, play for the Scorpions under the U.S. Specialty Sports Association (USSSA), as well as compete in Little League.

Over the last months, they worked tirelessly raising money for the trip with designs on playing the best baseball they could and winning for their families and coach. Stawiecki, who played college ball at Tufts, has enjoyed managing the squad and impressing on them the fundamentals of the game.

Arriving on Friday night, the first games were to begin on Sunday May 31, with the Saturday open for moving into the barracks that house the boys for a week, as well as a spirited skills competition that afternoon.

Sunday, Monday and Tuesday saw each of the 104 teams play six games,

ultimately leading to a seeding in a full team win-or-go home tournament staged Wednesday and Thursday. In that opening sextet, the team went 4-2 with crushing wins of 12-0 over the Brighton Bulldogs, and a 14-2 thrashing of the Erie Outlaws. Its record was good enough for a four-way tie for 30th out of 104, and an opening match in the one-and-done contest against the Memphis Tigers. The seeding would have been higher if not for a heartbreaking first-game loss against the Margate Titans on Sunday 10-9.

Wednesday’s tourney matched the Memphis Tigers and Arizona Scorpions, as the Tigers took the game 14-7 and advanced. Yet, for Stawiecki and his team, they were content with the quality of the effort and for the chance to compete at Cooperstown.

“These kids played their hearts out and I could not be more proud them, they proudly represented their team and state,” Stawiecki says.

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

A free information session for Arizona Connections Academy, a tuition-free, fully accredited K-12 online public school, will be held from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday, June 26, at the Courtyard Phoenix Chandler, 920 N. 54th St., Chandler.

The information session will cover a variety of topics, including the school’s program and curriculum, how teachers interact with students in a virtual environment, social events, such as field trips and clubs and other relevant topics. Arizona Connections Academy is available to K-12 students who reside anywhere in Arizona; tuition is free and enrolled students receive a computer and books at no charge.

“This is a terrific opportunity for families to learn about our online program and individualized approach to education,” says Kerri Wright, ACA principal. “We follow the same curriculum as a traditional school, but students have much more flexibility in terms of when they attend live lessons and when they do class assignments. Students can work at their own pace, advancing quickly or taking extra time with teachers on subjects that are more challenging.”

Visit www.ArizonaConnectionsAcademy.com or call (800) 382-6010 to learn more.

Youth

Sister Cities announces grand prize winners

Hamilton High School student Brandon Thornton has been chosen as the grand prize essay winner for the Sister Cities International Young Authors Showcase. He participated in the contest after winning the Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities’ (CTSC) Young Artists and Authors Showcase.

Along with the recognition, Brandon will receive a $1,000 check from Sister Cities International. In his essay, “Unity,” Brandon expresses that the “bonds of respect for man and friendship forged during the course of a life open our hearts to communities of any scale.”

For more than two decades, the Young Artists and Authors Showcase has given youth from around the globe the opportunity to express their vision for a more unified, peaceful world through original artwork and literature. The 2014 Showcase encouraged youth to submit entries inspired by what Sister Cities International’s tagline, “Connect globally. Thrive locally,” means to them.

Brandon’s essay, along with the other national winners, will be on display at the annual Sister Cities International (SCI) Conference in San Jose, California, this summer. Following the conference, the entries—art, essays and poems—will go on a tour to several cities across the United States.

Chandler’s Young Artists and Authors Showcase and Reception at Chandler’s Vision Gallery in April was due in large part to a grant from Chandler’s Special Events Committee and the Chandler Cultural Foundation. This is the third consecutive year that entries from CTSC have received grand prize recognition at the national level.

“The Young Artists and Authors Showcase is one of the events sponsored by SCI, and is an amazing opportunity to expose our students—at young and impressionable ages—to Sister Cities,” states Ellen

Harrington, president of Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities.

As President Dwight D. Eisenhower envisioned, these sister city organizations are the hub of peace and prosperity by creating bonds between people from different cities around the world. By forming these relationships, Eisenhower reasoned that people of different cultures could celebrate and appreciate their differences and build partnerships that would lessen the chance of new conflicts.

The 2014 Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities’ Young Artists and Authors Showcase was a collaboration with the City of Chandler’s Creative Expressions competition, offered through the Diversity Office. Besides Brandon, essay winners included Valerie Navarrete, second place; Payton McLeod, third place; and Lily Wayne, Rebecca Godbout and Maggie Harrington, all of whom won honorable mentions.

Young Authors Poetry winners are Matthew Rapier, first place and student at Seton Catholic Preparatory; Emily Hammer, second place; Alina de la Cruz, third place; and Teresa McBryan and Isa De Guzman, both of whom won honorable mentions.

Young Artists winners are Sabrina Leung, first place and student at Hamilton High School; Jessica Liu, second place; Gaby Diaz, third place; and Astha Chourasia and Charlotte Hunter, both of whom won honorable mentions.

All 2014 essays, poems and artworks can be viewed on www.chandlerirish.org. For information on the 2015 Young Artists and Authors Showcase, please contact Barbara Olivieri, CTSC education chairwoman, at chandler_tullamore_education@yahoo.com. For more information on Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities, contact Ellen Harrington, (480) 600-8509 or chan. to.tull@gmail.com.

‘Unity’

ESSAY WINNER

BY BRANDON THORNTON, HAMILTON HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT

In a culture often dominated by self-improvement, one of the most coercive unifying forces is a commonality, whether it is an interest, station in life, far-reaching goal, or important task in need of completion. These likenesses lay the basis for cooperation and conversation, but there is potential for something much richer when the groundwork for a community is laid.

Respect and trust are bred through collaboration, while comfort and social fulfillment grow through positive interaction and the outpouring of conversational trivialities. A wholesome connectedness nestles within ourselves, and we form a web of interdependence and interrelation, linking those in our respective communities together with ties of friendship.

Through it, we can rejoice together when spirits are high, support one another when they are low, and expedite group as well as individual improvement. Small and large manifestations of thoughtful kindness and communication, from students helping each other understand a concept, to volunteer firemen rushing to extinguish life-threatening flames, can both arise from and further strengthen a sense of unity. A few personal relationships, a common cause, or a willing heart can spark transcendence from just making it through life on one’s own to thriving in a constructive community.

Even though our focuses may often narrow to those within our smaller social spheres, we all are most fundamentally connected through our humanity. The mantra of the current day is far from the one of isolationism held in the past. As a nation and as a world, we set up extensive education and nourishment programs to assist those in third world countries, draft legislation to protect the welfare of entire nations of people, and seek to understand the complexities of various altruism—an undying and perhaps

growing passion for others ingrained in the human spirit that unifies us with those around the world. It is what allows us to commiserate with and unselfishly aid victims of poverty, starvation, natural disaster, and any of the tragically diverse woes thrust upon the mortal kind, while the bonds of respect for man and friendship forged during the course of a life open our hearts to communities of any scale.

POETRY WINNER

First place poem: ‘Ready for Takeoff’

BY MATT RAPIER

A humble pigeon strolls the city block

The others they all strut and gawk, striving for the envy of the flock

Though this pigeon may seem complacent, out of sync with the masses

He fears none of humiliation, his spirit as sturdy as a rock

Although he wasn’t always like this, to boast he had a myriad of reasons

With a golden speckled head and chiseled beak, to be reserved would be treason

However he learns the truth, he finds his way, every year when autumn passes

For he sees the world in a different light, as the frost brings in the season

Three winters ago, back in his youth, he headed for the Keys

He saw sights of scintillating beauty that brought him to his nonexistent knees

There were cardinals of a cherry red, and jays of an ocean blue

That winter he found his golden dome more rustic, so he lay incognito in the trees

The proceeding spring found him in a stupor, filled with an unsettled yearn

Nostalgia soaked in every limb, he knew he must return

He had seen a world outside Manhattan, his spirit was anew

He must prepare for every winter, another chance he must earn

So he stayed loyal to his feeder, the trumpeter with the plain white bread

When the other birds jumped from loaf to loaf, he stayed with the musician instead

The man admired the bird’s devotion, he sought that it never miss a meal

While others went hungry with dreams of croissants, with strength he could work ahead

While other birds were absorbed by the city lights, our pigeon made sure to get his rest

And when the leaves fell again that year, he put his efforts to the test

He secured his twigs inside his oak, as now he knew the deal

For one to span the globe abroad, you must first care for your nest

WINNERS PAGE 31

Chandler-Tullamore books multitude of events

Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities (CTSC) has announced the schedule of upcoming events for the rest of 2014.

The organization strives to share the Irish heritage through cultural, education and history activities.

“We are especially pleased to announce our inaugural CTSC members’ trip to Ireland, with focus days in Tullamore, Chandler’s Sister City,” says Ellen Harrington, CTSC president.

“This will be a wonderful opportunity to experience Ireland, with concentrated stops of historical and cultural significance. Upon arrival in Tullamore, we will enjoy the hospitality and sights of our Sister City and County Offaly.”

For more information, visit www.chandlerirish.org or contact Harrington at chan.to.tull@ gmail.com or (480) 600-8509. Visit its website, www.chandlerirish.org, or on Facebook at “Chandler Irish.”

Upcoming events for Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities:

• Wednesday, July 23: Genealogy 101, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Chandler Police Committee Room, Chandler. Miles Davenport, genealogist at the McClelland Irish Library, will acquaint participants with the basic genealogical process along with goal-setting, research source selection and documentation requirements using numerous resources available for discovering Irish ancestry. Donations are accepted for the CTSC Student Ambassador Program.

• Monday, Aug 25, through Friday, Sept 5: CTSC members’ trip to Ireland, with special time in Tullamore and County Offaly. Contact Ellen Harrington for trip details at chan.to.tull@ gmail.com or (480) 600-8509.

• September, date and time to be announced: Quiz, Coach and Willie’s, Downtown Chandler.

• October, date and time to be announced: Dining Fundraiser for Student Ambassadors.

• October: Young Artists and Authors Showcase 2015 theme to be introduced; open to all Chandler students between the ages of 13 and 18.

• Saturday, Nov. 1: Annual Southwest Tea, 11 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Chandler Community Center.

• Monday, Nov 17: Wine and Design, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Gangplank Chandler. Artist/singer/ entrepreneur Laurie Fagen will instruct budding “artists” in the art of polymer clay, making pendants, ornaments, window hangers, etc. using Celtic designs.

• December, date and time to be announced, Irish Connection Holiday Social, Coach and Willie’s, downtown Chandler.

TO A BEAUTIFUL SELFIE SMILE…

From Dr. Chamberlain’s Desktop

Iam sure most of us have heard the additional entries that were added into the Webster’s dictionary in 2013. The words, hashtag and selfie are so common now that they appear in the dictionary.

The current definition of selfie is, “an image one has taken of oneself using a digital camera especially for posting on social networks.”I hadn’t heard of the term, selfie until about 8 months ago, but the word has been in use since 2002. It’s rise in popularity comes from a correlating rise in the need to show off your best self.

I have wondered what is the reason for this increase in the need to show your photo off so often. It might be to show off the background setting in which you are taking the photo, so as to say, “look where I am!” Or could it be to include others

in your life experience? Perhaps you just want to see yourself and it’s easier than going to a mirror! Regardless of the reasons, a selfie shows a lot about a person. Both in the quantity and the quality of the photos. Believe me, I am not judging anyone about taking a selfie. I think they can be fun and engaging when appropriate.

As a matter of fact, we have begun a selfie contest in our office over the summer. The rules are to take a selfie and post it on either our Facebook page, our Instagram or email it to us at ruchi@smilestraight.com. (Don’t forget to TAG us with the following- @chamberlainorthodontics, #smilestraight, #braces, #selfie, #chamberlainorthodontics). The contest begins when your friends start to “LIKE” your photo. The most likes at the end of the summer wins a fabulous prize. Remember, I’m the guy who gave away a car this May, so I like giving

cool prizes, and it will be worth the effort! So, for those selfie takers out there, I say, “Go for it!” Take that selfie and show us your best #Selfie Smile. For those who of you feel like hesitating before snapping a selfie, just remember that Chamberlain Orthodontics still has your brand new smile waiting patiently for YOU.

Youth

Classes vary at City facilities this summer

Leisure and lifestyle classes, such as film, dance, sports, art, cooking and swimming for individuals of all ages are some of the summer session activities offered in June, July and August. Copies of Break Time can be picked up at City facilities or online at www.chandler.gov/breaktime to find a complete listing of classes.

Registration can be done online at www. chandleraz.gov/registration, by mail or in person at Chandler Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave.; Environmental Education Center at Veterans Oasis Park, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd.; Snedigar Recreation Center, 4500 S. Basha Rd., and Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd.

Call (480) 782-2727 for more information.

Registration for swimming programs can be done at the Aquatics Administrative offices at 650 E. Ryan Rd.

New reservation software system

ACTIVENet will go live Saturday, Aug. 2, replacing the existing registration and reservation software system, for fall classes. New customer accounts will be provided to all customers as the transition to the new system is made. Additional information about the program can be found online at www.chandler.gov/breaktime or in the newest Break Time edition.

Club Building Blocks

Club Building Blocks, a new five-day a

week, three-hour program, will be held until Friday, June 27. The class is offered from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Cost is $209 for residents; $283 for nonresidents. This style of class offers activities and themes that provide children with the opportunity to grow and develop, both socially and educationally, in a fun, yet structured classroom environment. Basic curriculum will be creatively expanded upon, in detail, to help build the foundation for the child’s classroom experience. The classes are held at the Community Center.

Youth Summer Camp underway

Youth Summer Camp is held from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with full-day and halfday options. The Community Center has qualified staff that will engage kids, ages 5 to 12, in sports, games, arts and crafts, ceramics, field trips, archery and computers. Lunch will be provided for full-day campers, but half-day campers should bring a snack. Fee is $117 for residents; $18 for nonresidents for full-day campers and $79 for residents and $107 for nonresidents for half-day campers.

La Petite Fleur is offered for 6 to 12 year olds

The Environmental Education Center is offering La Petite Fleur on Wednesdays and Thursdays through July 7. Learn why roses have thorns, how to make flower food and how to design a beautiful flower arrangement. Discover bio-mimicry through

projects inspired by the Desert Botanical Garden. This class will teach 6 to 12 year olds how to enjoy, care and create floral designs. Every child makes a bouquet on the last day of class to take home. The class is held from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. and is $7 for residents and $10 for nonresidents. There is a $25 instructor fee and $15 supply fee.

Summer Nature Camp underway

The Summer Nature Camp is held Monday through Friday for full-day and half-day campers at the Environmental Education Center. The seven-week camp is held from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for kids ages 6 to 12. Campers will explore the natural world through fun games, activities, experiments, hikes and crafts. Each week is individually themed to fit various topics and subject matters that relate to the natural world. Cost is $117 for residents and $158 for nonresidents for the full-day camp; $79 for residents for half-day and $107 for nonresidents.

SRC Kids Clubhouse

Looking for a fun and safe place for your child to play, while you go out on a date, play in an adult sports league or run some errands? Bring them to the SRC Kids Clubhouse for games and crafts on Fridays in June from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The Clubhouse is open to children 3 to 12 years old. Fee is $14 for residents and $19 for nonresidents at the Snedigar Recreation Center.

Club Building Blocks at Snedigar Recreation Center

Club Building Blocks is held from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday through Thursday until July 11. Cost is $251 for residents; $339 for nonresidents. This camp style class offers activities and themes that give children the opportunity to grow and develop, both socially and educationally, in a fun, yet structured classroom environment. Basic curriculum will be creatively expanded on, in detail, to help build the foundation for a child’s classroom experience.

Youth Summer Camp for

5 to 12

year olds

The Youth Summer Camp is held from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday until July 18, at Snedigar Recreation Center. A full-day camper is $128 for residents and $173 for nonresidents. It is $87 for half-day camper residents and $118 for nonresidents. Qualified staff will engage kids’ ages 5 to 12 in sports, games and arts and crafts.

After Hours Sports at the TRC Teens are encouraged to take advantage of After Hours Sports at the TRC on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in June and July. It is $3 for residents and $5 for nonresidents. Teens can experience a whole new night life at the Tumbleweed Recreation Center this summer. Sports and activities will include basketball, volleyball, dodge ball, ladder ball, duct tape crafts, crazy looms and more.

Youth

Teen Wiffle Ball Tournament

The Teen Wiffle Ball Tournament will take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 27. The team fee is $15 for residents; $21 for nonresidents. Put together a team of two to five friends and come out to the first Wiffle ball tournament. Sign up for the free agent list if you don’t have a team. For more information, call Kathy Worrell at (480) 782-2746.

Creative Cooking classes offered through July

Creative Cooking will be held on Thursdays through July 24, at the Tumbleweed Recreation Center. Classes are from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and are $20 for residents and $27 for nonresidents. Are you hungry when you get home from school or work? Do you want to learn to make some good snacks that you can enjoy quickly? Come to the creative cooking class where individuals will learn about summer snacks that are easy and fun to make.

Therapeutic-style Zumba

On Tuesdays through Aug. 15 Zumba, therapeutic style, will be held from 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. It is $20 for residents; $27 for nonresidents. Stretch, bend and get a great workout while being with friends. Bring a mat and be ready to work hard while dancing.

Personal training at TRC

The Tumbleweed Recreation Center offers personal training for 30-minute, 60-minute and small group sessions. Personal training session pricing begins at

$21 per session. Stop by TRC Guest Services or call (480) 782-2900 for details.

Youth Summer Camp at Tumbleweed Recreation Center

Youth Summer Camp at Tumbleweed Recreation Center is seven fun-filled weeks for youth ages 5 to 12. A variety of exciting activities, such as arts and crafts, sports, science discovery, swimming and field trips are planned. The camp is held from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday through July 18. It is $128 for residents and $173 for nonresidents for full-day campers. The cost for half-day campers is $87 for residents; $118 for nonresidents.

Sign up for mailing list to stay informed

Use “Come Out and Play Chandler” and #FunInChandler when posting on social media while visiting Chandler parks, recreation facilities and aquatic centers. Stay up-to-date with activities by signing up for the Chandler Parks and Recreation newsletter at www.chandleraz.gov/listserv. Enter your email address in the Parks and Recreation Newsletter opt-in box.

Applications being accepted for youth Leaders in Training Program

Applications are being accepted for the Leaders in Training Program. It is $17 for residents; $24 for nonresidents. The program, designated for youths, places them in a work environment within the City of Chandler to gain experience while learning about real jobs. The program builds a resume, as well as hours used for scholarships. For more information, call

Sabrina Leung of Hamilton High School WINNERS FROM PAGE 29

Tony Baumann at (480) 782-2710 or email him at Anthony.Baumann@Chandleraz.gov.

Adult Summer Bowling offered through August

The Adult Summer Bowling, which will run through Saturday, Aug. 2, will take place at Chandler AMF Bowling Lanes. Escape the heat on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and bowl with friends for a few hours. Cost is $7 per week for bowling.

After Hours Sports at the TRC

Teens are encouraged to take advantage of After Hours Sports at the TRC on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in June and July. It is $3 for residents and $5 for nonresidents. Teens can experience a whole new night life at the Tumbleweed Recreation Center this summer. Sports and activities will include basketball, volleyball, dodge ball, ladder ball, duct tape crafts, crazy looms and more.

Chandler aquatics programs abound

Chandler aquatic facilities offer numerous activities throughout the summer at its five locations—Arrowhead Pool, 1475 W. Erie St.; Desert Oasis Aquatic Center, 1400 W. Summit Pl.; Folley Pool, 600 E. Fairview; Hamilton Aquatic Center, 3838 S. Arizona Ave., and West Chandler Aquatic Pool, 250 S. Kyrene Rd.

Summer hours

All Chandler pools are open for the summer season. Seasonal hours are established on an individual facility basis and end in relation to the school district, in which each facility is located.

Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday and Wednesday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Hamilton Aquatic Center is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Nozomi Aquatic Center is open from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Arrowhead Pool is open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Desert Oasis Aquatic Center is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and from 12 p.m. to 6

p.m. Sunday.

Folley Pool is open from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday; 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday; 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and closed on Sunday.

All six facilities have at least one lap lane open during public swim times. The year-round lap swim program continues throughout the summer at Hamilton and Mesquite Groves. Admission for lap swim is $2 a person, regardless of age.

$1 Family Swim time

Looking for some family fun time? Each facility offers a $1 Family Swim time when admission for the entire family is only a buck. It’s a great opportunity to get the family together for some fun in the sun, without breaking the bank.

Family Swim is from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays at Mesquite Groves; 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays at Hamilton; 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesdays at Nozomi; 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesdays at Arrowhead; 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays at Desert Oasis; and 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays at Folley.

Free swim times

Having fun in the sun can only be improved in one way, having fun in the sun for free. Each Chandler aquatic facility offers weekly free swim times when admission is free for everyone.

Free Swim Times are from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays at Nozomi; 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays at Hamilton; 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays at Desert Oasis; 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays at Folley

and Mesquite Groves; and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays at Arrowhead.

Chandler Parks and Recreation receives a new look

The Chandler parks, recreation and aquatic departments received a makeover for its logo. The nature displayed in the logo is to represent the San Tan Mountains; Chandler’s oldest tree, a cork oak; all six of the Chandler aquatic facilities and programs, and the parks, conserved land and recreation centers ran by Chandler. The new tagline “Discover. Imagine. Grow” makes a promise to Chandler residents and visitors that Chandler Parks and Recreation will always be a fun and happy place to explore, learn and grow in a positive way.

Staff offers free evaluations for swim lessons

A free evaluation will be conducted by staff members to help place a child in an appropriate level swim lesson at each one of the aquatic centers. Parents and guardians can stop by at any of the centers during swim hours to seek staff assistance.

After arriving at a pool, ask the cashier or pool manager for a swim lesson. One of the qualified water safety instructors will take the child into the pool, where he or she will be asked to perform several exercises demonstrating skills for no longer than 10 minutes. A recommended class level based on the child’s performance will be given by the staff member.

The published class description guide online at ww.chandleraz.gov provides parents with the opportunity to estimate a class level themselves for their child. The parent is asked to put their child in a course based on their skills and ability levels, rather than age. The ages listed on the course descriptions are basic guidelines to help place a child, except seahorse, otters and surfer classes. The child may be more or less advanced than the suggested age. A general rule of thumb is that children will remain in the same level for at least two sessions. The description on the class lest are available to assist in educating customers on the variety of classes that the Aquatics Department has the capability of offering. Some classes may not be offered during each session or at each location.

Summer lessons offered at all facilities

There are a variety of lessons offered throughout the summer at all six Chandler aquatic facilities. Morning lessons are available at all six locations, and evening lessons are available at Arrowhead, Desert Oasis, Folley and Mesquite Groves. Saturday morning lessons are offered at Folley and Hamilton. For more information, consult the Break Time magazine.

Summer Sessions 3 and 4 to open soon

Online registration for the summer sessions three and four will open at 10 a.m.

…The common denominator between young children and the love of reading.

Wednesday, June 25, for Chandler residents. Nonresidents can begin to register at 10 a.m. Friday, June 27. Don’t know which class to register for? Talk to your child’s instructor for a recommendation, or come to any of the facilities during public swim hours and ask for a swim lesson evaluation. The eight-day weekday session is $15.55 for a 25-minute class for residents; $21.55 for nonresidents and $19.55 for a 50-minute class for residents and $26.55 for nonresidents. The four-day Saturdays, one week sessions, are $9.55 for a 25-minute class for residents and $13.55 for nonresidents and $13.55 for a 50-minute class for residents and $17.55 for nonresidents. Semi-private eight-day weekday sessions is $34.55 for a 45-minute class for residents and $46.55 for nonresidents. The four-day Saturdays, one week sessions, are $19.55 for residents for a 45-minute class and $26.55 for nonresidents.

Springboard diving classes offered

The City of Chandler has introduced springboard diving classes. Two classes will be offered: Learn to Dive class, which teaches participants the basics of springboard diving in a fun and safe environment; and the Advanced Springboard Diving class, which will teach participants back, inward, reverse and twist/flip dives. Classes will be held at Nozomi and Mesquite Groves.

American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor course

The American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor course trains instructors candidates to teach water safety, including the basic water rescue course, six levels

of the progressive learn to swim program and parent and child aquatics. This is a 43hour course. It includes five hours of the F.I.T. course and eight hours of instructor candidate practical teaching time. It is $103 for residents; $127 for nonresidents. The prerequisites include demonstrating proficiency in front crawl freestyle, back crawl backstroke, breaststroke, elementary breaststroke, sidestroke and butterfly; maintain position on back one minute in deep water; tread water for one minute and must be 16 years old by the first day of class. The upcoming sessions will be held at Desert Oasis from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, July 26 through Aug. 3.

Aqua Fit classes are back

Aqua Fit is a 50-minute class. Participants must be 16 years old or older. Resident fee is $35; nonresidents is $48. Drop in resident fee is $5; $7 for nonresidents space permitting. The fee is based on eight classes. Drop in participation is limited due to class size and may not be accommodated if class registration is full. Classes must meet minimum enrollment levels. Classes will be cancelled three days prior to start of class date if minimal enrollment required is not met. Drop in registration is held at the pool where class is conducted, please register with class instructor. The tAQUAta Shallow class, 3.5 to 5 feet deep, is based on the Tabata workout, which uses high intensity interval training to improve cardiovascular and metabolic systems. This course uses the natural resistance of shallow and deep water to provide power moves without impacting joints. The class offers a balanced emphasis on cardio, strength, and the core

throughout the session. Aqua Fit Deep uses deep water jogging and exercises to challenge and strengthen the entire body including the core. This class is held in 6 to 12 feet of water, in a vertical position, feet not touching the bottom to improve overall fitness. Flotation belts, noodles and other equipment are used, but comfort in the water is recommended. The classes are held at Arrowhead Pool, Nozomi Aquatic Center and Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center.

New Guard Start Program offered

The new Guard Start Program is held for 9 and 10 year olds. This is a great opportunity to introduce pre-teens into the Junior Lifeguarding Program. This program requires dedication and commitment. Upon completion of this program, the participant will receive a certificate and a T-shirt.

This program will be offered at four of the six aquatic centers, Arrowhead Pool, Hamilton Aquatic Center, Nozomi Aquatic Center and Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center. Enrollment is limited to 10 participants. It is $47 for residents and $64 for nonresidents.

To participate in the Guard Start Program, the following skills must be demonstrated: swim the front craw for 35 yards continuously while breathing to the front or side; tread water for one minute; float on the back for 30 seconds and submerge and swim a distance of 10 feet underwater. The skills evaluation will occur on the first day of the program. Participants should bring a swimsuit and towel for the skills evaluation and for every class.

New American Red Cross Junior Lifeguarding Program

A new American Red Cross Junior

Lifeguarding Program for 11 to 15 year olds will teach water safety and introduce participants to the duties and responsibilities of a lifeguard; however this course will not certify anyone to be a lifeguard. Participants will have an introduction to first aid and CPR/AED and build a foundation of knowledge, attitudes and skills in preparation for the American Red Cross Lifeguarding course. Successful completion requires participation in skills practice. Enrollment is limited to 20 participants and is $57 for residents and $74 for nonresidents. To participate, the following skills must be demonstrated: swim the front crawl for 25 yards continuously while breathing to the front and side; tread water for one-minute; float on the back for 30-seconds and submerge and swim a distance of 10-feet underwater. The skills evaluation will occur on the first day of the program. Participants should come prepared to swim and bring a towel for every class. Upon completion of this program, the participant will receive a certificate of completion and T-shirt. Upon turning 15 years old, they will be prepared to enroll in the American Red Cross Lifeguarding course, where the knowledge and skills of a lifeguard will be taught.

Year round lap swimming

From 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. Monday through Thursday Hamilton Aquatic Center, 3838 S. Arizona Ave., offers lap swimming and Mesquite Groves Aquatic Center, 5901 S. Hillcrest Dr., has lap swimming from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is $2 per visit, regardless of age. Be sure to purchase a punch pass, a 5 percent to 30 percent savings on admission fees, or an annual pass, only $200.

D-backs pitcher to host celebrity charity camp

Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher

Wade Miley is set to host the Wade Miley Celebrity Charity Camp and VIP Luncheon on Monday, June 23, at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale.

The camp is from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. for boys and girls ages 5-17. Directly following the camp, fans of all ages can purchase admission to lunch with Miley in the dugout.

During the camp, participants will learn conditioning to become the best in the game from Celebrity Fitness Trainer and Motivational Speaker Felicia Romero, and then break into appropriate groups led by instructors who will provide focused, intensive training that is essential to improvement for all skill levels.

Every facet of the game will be covered, with an emphasis on advanced skills and fundamentals to help players become valuable team members.

Each camp director, including Miley and former major and minor league players, will do their best to advance players to the next level, keeping in consideration each camper’s experience and desire to improve.

Campers can receive an autographed Miley jumbo exclusive Topps baseball card, Under Armour exclusive camp T-shirt, and other great items in a “swag bag” for all paid campers.

The camp is a benefit for several charities that Miley supports.

Check in by 7:30 a.m. at Salt River Fields located at 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale. The camp will be on Field D-3. Park in the Desert Parking Lot, and enter through the pedestrian walkway. Campers should bring their bats, gloves and appropriate shoes.

Tickets are also available for the VIP “Dugout” Luncheon with Miley and special guests. Mix, mingle, take photos and possibly even ask him to autograph your item.

Tickets are $92.50 for the Wade Miley Camper tickets, and $75 for the VIP “Dugout” Lunch Meet and Greet following the camp. To register visit www.eventbrite. com and type in “Wade Miley.” For more information, contact info@ EliteDCBaseball.

Library offers free movie viewing throughout summer

The Downtown Chandler Public Library is offering Magic Hours Movies for families to enjoy this summer. Join the library on select Tuesday nights throughout the summer for this variety pack movie series featuring major blockbusters, hidden treasures, comedy classics and movies based-on-books.

Downtown Chandler Public Library is located at 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Movies are: “Ping Pong

Playa” (PG-13), 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 1; “Napoleon Dynamite” (PG), 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 15; “Shadows in the Sun” (PG), 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5; and “The Jane Austen Book Club” (PG-13), 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19. Movies are free. For more information call (480) 782-2800, email infodesk@ chandlerlibrary.org or visit www. chandlerlibrary.org.