The grandeur of soccer’s greatest stage, the FIFA World Cup, will unfold beginning June 12 in Brazil. Leading their country’s charge to victory will see the predominant names in the sport: Jozy Altidore of the United States, the singular-named Neymar of Brazil, Lionel Messi from Argentina and Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal.
Closer to home, the 12-year-old Boys Legacy team (02-Red) of the San Tan Soccer Club will be gaming for a victory at the U.S. Youth Soccer Far West Regionals in Albuquerque, New Mexico, June 16-22. The team’s berth in the regional matches was earned by securing the soccer club’s first boys Legacy victory in the State Cup Championship on May 11.
The State Cup Championship is the culminating tournament of the Arizona Youth Soccer Association, and a member of the national U.S. Youth Soccer. Sixteen teams arrive through qualification over the previous months as rival clubs compete in club and league play.
“There are dozens and dozens of clubs in the metro, and over 30,000 youth players statewide,” according to Coach Patrick Jackson.
A win in Albuquerque would crown the team national champions of U.S. Youth Soccer in the 12-year-old bracket.
The players who may pull off this feat are: Captains Pedro Mondragon and Max Lipman, as well as Brennan Klein, Parker Lischwe, Nick McElenney, Michael Frees, Charlie Nunez, Andy Barrientos, Seamus
McCarthy, T.J. Palacio, Trevor Dean, Michael Brueser, Crew Marin, Dominick Lopez, Mason Messenger and Hayden Jaramillo. Jackson is joined by Assistant Coach Scott Moyer.
Historic win
Jackson and fellow coach Brandon Frees identify the win in the state cup finals as not only historic, given its
PREPARING FOR PLAY: The 12-year-old Boys Legacy team (02-Red) of the San Tan Soccer Club readies for the regionals in Albuquerque, New Mexico. STSN photo by Ron Lang
ascendant nature, but also triumphant as it exemplified its spirit and values.
“We have had boys teams reach the state finals, but never win,” Jackson says. “What these boys achieved in victory demonstrated their desire and ability to overcome a great deal of adversity.”
In the week leading up to the first game, Legacy 02-Red lost two of their key players to injury. The travails continued with a leg injury to another key starter in the opening round. “We almost did not make it out of our pool play, to even have a chance at the title, if it were not for a remarkable tie in game one, and a stellar comeback win in the final minutes of game three by our players,” says Jackson.
SAT, ACT practice tests offered
SanTan Sun News-area high school juniors and seniors are invited to take a free SAT or ACT practice test Saturday, June 14, at Tutor House Tutoring Services, 100 W. Boston St., Suite 4, Chandler.
Testing is held from 9:15 a.m. to 1 p.m., preceded by a welcome and registration from 9 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. Students should bring a calculator to the session. Test results and analysis are given at a separately scheduled conference.
The free practice test is offered in addition to Tutor House’s regular SAT and ACT prep programs, as well as a wide range of one-on-one and small group tutoring for students in grades K through 12.
Sign up at www.TutorHouseAZ. com, or learn more by calling (480) 857-1222 or emailing Tutoring@ TutorHouseAZ.com.
PEP TALK: Coach Patrick Jackson gives a motivational speech to his players during a recent practice. STSN photo by Ron Lang
Chandler-area graduates head to NASA
BY MEGHAN MCCOY
It was far from your typical call from Texas.
“I’m from NASA,” said the voice on the other line.
But Ruben Adkins, a Chandler High School graduate and current University of Arizona student, heard just that after submitting a proposal for an undergraduate research project on microgravity.
Adkins and five other students from the UofA, many of whom are Chandler Unified School District graduates, traveled to the Johnson Space Center last month to participate in the NASA Student Flight Program.
“I’ve never got a call from NASA (before), so that was pretty neat,” he says.
The program provides college and university students with the opportunity to propose, design, fabricate, fly and evaluate a reduced gravity experiment of their choice.
Adkins says he and Hamilton High School graduate Justin Hacnik formed a team of all juniors at UofA last summer and submitted the proposal to NASA.
The proposal included the inception of their idea, how the team could realistically achieve it, as well as safety information about their project.
Adkins was told that NASA received a lot of applicants this year and they were excited to announce that his team was selected as one of the finalists.
Submitted photo
“I called everyone else on the team,” he says.
Eighteen team proposals were chosen out of 400 submissions. In addition to Adkins and Hacnik, Chandler High School graduates Dustin Groff and Kellin Rumsey; Perry High graduate Andrew Jiminez, and Michael McCabe, who attended high school in Texas, also made
up the team.
The project is called “Investigations of a Frontal Polymerization for on-board Materials Processing Applications.”
“We developed this research and it is something we are interested in,” Adkins says.
The project will form products in microgravity, meaning the team can
investigate the different properties the materials possess with the affect of gravity. It will determine the polymerization process, Adkins says.
In layman’s terms, it’s a good option to produce materials in zero gravity.
“If there is something you need to produce when on a mission, it can actually be done,” Adkins says.
The project will take place in an aluminum box that is heat initiated with two reactants to the test tube.
“It’s a glorified test tube rack,” Hacnik explains.
Under the test tube there is a heat gun that is mounted to a shaft. The experiment will have 30 second reactions.
Adkins says they will test their experiment on the reduced gravity flight in Houston. The team left at the end of May and stayed until June 8.
“Once we are on the plane, (it will be) as simple as turning a crank,” he says.
The flight will have 30, 30 second intervals. Within each of those intervals, microgravity will be experienced.
“Each interval we will be testing each of the polymerization,” Hacnik explains.
“We want to make sure we have multiple tests, so we can compare it to our data.”
The team wants to thank the UofA Honors College, the College of Engineering and Dr. Jennifer Barton, interim vice president for research.
Meghan McCoy is the Neighbors and Business section editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at meghan@santansun.com.
NASA: Ruben Adkins, Dustin Groff, Michael McCabe, Justin Hacnik, Andrew Jiminez and Kellin Rumsey will conduct microgravity research aboard NASA’S G Force One as part of the NASA’s 2014 reduced gravity Student Flight Program at Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.
Youth
Chandler resort offers getaway
Families looking for a cool getaway this summer can look no further than Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa’s Legoland Summer Camp, running over three weekends this summer.
The resort’s three “Building Fun Under the Sun” summer camps features a full, fun-filled day of programming for junior guests ages 5 to 12, including a three-in-one toy-building session with races, games and loose brick play, as well as interactive stations and a touch-tank experience from Sea Life Arizona. Junior guests will also enjoy a “Love Your Family” poolside reception, Native American song and s’mores, gaming stations and a specially designed buffet for each child enrolled in the workshop.
While kids are participating in camp activities, parents can enjoy a complimentary VIP coupon book and shuttle service to the nearby Phoenix Premium Outlets, 20 percent off greens fees at Whirlwind Golf Club, 20 percent off a la carte services at Aji Spa and two complimentary Hanyo Poolside Bar and Grill drink vouchers to cool down by the pool.
Sessions will be held June 13 through July 15, July 11 through July 13 and July 25 through July 27. Rates begin at $149 per night with a two-night minimum. Guests can enjoy a second or adjoining room for $79 per night based on availability. The package includes access for two children into the camp,
two welcome “Build Master” amenity bags which include Sea Life Arizona discount passes, two complimentary drink vouchers for parents, child wristbands for 50 percent off food and beverage valid only at Hanyo, several specialty partner gifts and more. Each participating family is welcome to enter additional children into the LEGO build workshop, if paid in advance and up to class capacity, for $50 per child. Reservations are required.
Sheraton Wild Horse Pass is at 5594 W. Wild Horse Pass Blvd. in Chandler. To make reservations or learn more, call (602) 225-0100 or (866) 837-4156 and mention rate plan LEGO 14, or visit www.wildhorsepassresort.com/kids/pr.
TAKING THE TROPHY
was recently named the U.S. Kids Golf Player of the Year for Arizona boys 6 and younger, which earns him an invitation to the U.S. Kids Golf World Championship this summer in Pinehurst, North Carolina. Ethan will be one of the youngest golfers at the World Championship. Ethan, who will attend Goodman Elementary this fall, has been playing golf since he was 21 months old at his home course, Ocotillo Golf Resort, as well as PGA Superstore in Chandler. Submitted photo
LITTLE CHAMP: Five-year-old Chandler resident Ethan “E” Butters
Teen, mom face weight loss head on
BY LYNETTE CARRINGTON
Weight loss struggles can be linked with any age. Just ask Chandler teen Nolan Lambing and his mom, Renee.
The 16-year-old Perry High School student had an epiphany and decided to lose weight by participating in the Orangetheory Fitness Ultimate Weight Loss Challenge. His mother, Renee Lambing, joined her son in the challenge. “I think it was looking back at old photos and then seeing the booths at Orangetheory,” Lambing says of the factors in his decision to join with Orangetheory in January. “I lost 20 pounds before the fitness challenge and then during the fitness challenge I lost 30.”
An incoming junior at Perry, Lambing won the competition.
“Orangetheory set me up with a diet plan. They taught me all the foods to eat and how to put a meal together, how to know what’s healthy and what
supplements to take,” Lambing explains.
“Each week, my trainer, Rob Walker would take my body fat measurement to make sure I was losing more fat than muscle to preserve my overall health. I started out with 26 percent body fat and now I’m at 20 percent body fat.”
Lambing says he felt better during the first week, and started to see results after the first month. He plans on continuing with Orangetheory Fitness and his friends are encouraging him to run track during the upcoming school year.
Renee joined Orangetheory Fitness immediately before her son and has lost 24 pounds.
“He was incredible and didn’t cheat once,” says Renee. “We kept each other on track, so it was pretty good. I was an advocate who didn’t believe in fats. I cut all fats out of my diet and it was a hard concept during the nutrition seminars to learn something new and adjust.
But, I trusted them and once I did, then everything just worked. We made some changes to what we eat, definitely.”
Walker is working with both of the Lambings. “Each one of them is very determined and committed. Usually when somebody gets into the mode to try and make a goal to lose their weight, they’re not quite sure what they’re getting themselves into,” says Walker. “They were willing to do the extra work of tracking their food and doing all their exercises.”
Renee Lambing is also participating in the next weight loss challenge at Orangetheory that is already underway.
A new study by the Centers for Disease Control found that Arizona is one of the few states that hasn’t decreased its childhood obesity rates. The lack of physical activity is directly linked to obesity in children and adults.
Orangetheory Fitness is located at 4850 S. Gilbert Rd. (at Chandler Heights
Program offers Chandler teens driver education
Chandler students 15 and older eligible for a learner’s permit or driver’s license can attend a comprehensive, MVDapproved Driver Education Academy at Basha High School, 5990 S. Val Vista Dr., Chandler.
The program runs from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday, June 9, through Friday, June 13. Students are given a 30-minute lunch
period and must bring their own lunch and drink.
The 30-hour course focuses on general rules for driver safety and responsibility, Arizona driving laws and regulations, experience using a driving simulator and three hours of “behind the wheel” training once the student is qualified. Students need not have a learner’s permit
ORANGETHEORY: Renee and Nolan Lambing worked hard and stayed committed to their health goals. STSN photo by Ron Lang
Road) with 12 additional locations Valleywide. Call (480) 794-1055 or visit www.orangetheoryfitness.com for additional information and for a guest pass to try a complimentary first class.
Lynette Carrington is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. She can be contacted at lynette@santansun.com.
to enroll, but must meet MVD guidelines before participating in “behind the wheel” instruction. The program is taught by certified instructors and offered by Tempe Community Education Program through Chandler Community Education. Students who successfully complete the course will be issued a certificate of completion which can be taken to MVD
for a learner’s permit; upon successful completion of “behind the wheel” hours, students will be issued a certificate of completion which can be taken to MVD for a driver’s license.
To learn more or register, call (480) 345-3763 or visit https://dcw. cusdcommunity.com/chandler/start_ registration.jsp.
Arizona Connections Academy holds open house June 26
A free information session will be held at Arizona Connections Academy, a tuition-free, fully accredited K-12 online public school, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday, June 26, at the Courtyard Phoenix Chandler, 920 N. 54th St., Chandler. The session will help families learn about the academy’s world-class curriculum, while exploring the highquality online program.
According to the 10th annual Keeping Pace report, online schools served as many as 310,000 students in 30 states during the 2012-2013 school year. Due to this all-time high, the growth and popularity of kindergarten through 12th grade virtual schools nationwide is also at a high.
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.
Since Arizona Connections Academy is a virtual school, it 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.
For more information, visit www. ArizonaConnectionsAcademy.com or call (800) 382-6010.
Youth Can IQ be enhanced? What matters and what makes
BY LINDA MCFADYEN NEW VISTAS CENTER FOR EDUCATION
New imaging technologies are helping us better understand how the brain grows and changes. We now understand that our brains develop well into our 20s and, even after that, continue to be quite malleable.
From 35 years of working with bright and motivated students at New Vistas, we have long been aware that IQ is not a predetermined number, but one that that parents and educators can greatly influence in positive ways. Noted psychologist and education researcher, Dr. Richard Nesbit, concurs, stating, “The accumulated evidence of research, much of which is quite recent, provides good reason for being far more optimistic about the possibilities of actually improving the intelligence of individuals, groups, and society as a whole, than was thought by experts even a few years ago.”
Since the founding of our school in 1979, we have marveled as we watch children dramatically increase their ability to reason, solve problems and think abstractly—all essential skills that are basic to IQ levels. We are now better able to understand the science behind our results at New Vistas, namely, that our
a difference?
children consistently perform on average two to six years above grade level.
Nesbit’s research helps us to understand what we have already seen and experienced in our own students— that children’s brains are not the product of a genetic lottery but of a consistent, structured, positive and nurturing environment, coupled with heredity.
So, schools and how they teach as well as parents and how they parent count. Here are the common threads that seem to link what our own parents and teachers do on a daily basis with Nesbit’s research and findings. In each case, all three: parents, teachers and Nesbit’s conclusions point to the fact that adults in positions of influence can indeed, influence a child’s IQ. They can also contribute to the child’s ability to acquire life-long skills, thus, serving as facilitators of overall academic success.
IQ is positively correlated to adults who:
• Utilize and encourage high levels of vocabulary and actively engage children in adult conversations.
• Encourage analysis and evaluation of interesting aspects of the world.
• Model organizational skills and support organizational development in children.
• Foster creativity and problem solving.
• Demonstrate the value of delayed gratification and patience.
• Praise children for effort, not just for
Pencils, Parents, Precepts and Practicalities
This is the second installment in the series of an eight-part series on helping your child succeed in school.
“being smart.”
• Encourage and model constructive ways to handling frustration.
• Offer games and activities that foster focus memory, listening, concentration, conflict resolution and inhibitory control.
• Provide opportunities for physical activity and value recuperative rest.
In short, the adults in a child’s life can help to enhance not only learning, but increased cognitive ability simply by offering new challenges in an encouraging, supportive environment. Neuroscientists from Columbia University in New York and Harvard University have discovered that the brain can and will adjust itself when confronted with new challenges— even through adulthood.
Linda McFadyen is the reading and curriculum coordinator at New Vistas Center for Education, a private preschool and elementary school located in Chandler. NVCE is designated a Top 10 School by Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth. For more information, call (480) 963-2313 or visit www.newvistasaz. com.
Library launches summer programs, contest
Kids of all ages can participate in “Fizz, Boom, Read!,” Chandler Public Library’s 2014 Summer Reading Program, sponsored by the Maricopa County Library District, running now through Saturday, July 26.
Points are earned by reading, attending events, or participating in “community experiences,” listed on the program’s website. Participants can register online from home, or at any one of the four Chandler Public Library locations.
This year’s theme, “Fizz, Boom, Read!,” complements the STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) curriculum adopted by many area schools. Each Chandler Public Library location will host STEAM-related events for kids throughout the summer, including a Richard Steele magic show, Wildman Phil and his desert wildlife presentations and more.
Last year, participants of Chandler Public Library’s summer reading program read more than 111,000 books.
“The summer reading program can make a huge difference for children who are working on their proficiency in reading,” says Chandler Library Manager Brenda Brown. “It is crucial for children to get help and early intervention so that they can read at their learning level, and we want to assist with that.”
Upon completion of the program, participants can choose a book to keep for themselves from a wide variety of
titles. To learn more about the Summer Reading Program and summer events at Chandler Public Library, visit www. chandlerlibrary.org/go2/summerreading-program.cfm or call (480) 7822800.
Youth mystery contest offered
A youth mystery writing contest for students ages 10 to 18 is open through Monday, June 23 as part of Chandler Public Library’s “Fizz, Boom, Read!” summer reading program and in conjunction with Sisters in Crime Desert Sleuths Chapter, a crime fiction and mystery writing nonprofit organization in Phoenix.
Desert Sleuths Chapter President Laurie Fagen of Chandler invites young writers to submit a mystery story that will enable students to receive a badge in the summer library program and vie for certificates for first, second and third places and honorable mention. Fagen is the publisher emeritus of the SanTan Sun News.
Youth may submit their mystery stories with a word count of up to 1,000 words by emailing them to DesertSleuths@gmail.com or by dropping a printed copy to Vision Gallery during regular business hours. All participants are invited to a free, open to the public reception from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 28, at Vision Gallery, 10 E. Chicago St., in downtown Chandler, which also features Sisters in Crime
Desert Sleuths Chapter 2013 Anthology authors.
Sisters in Crime Desert Sleuths Chapter is part of an international organization promoting the professional development and advancement of women crime writers to achieve equality in the industry, and raise professionalism and achieve equity among crime writers. For details, visit www.DesertSleuths.com and www.SistersinCrime.org.
Club READ celebrates diversity Club READ (Reading Experiences Appreciating Diversity) provides engaging reading activities during the
summer for students in third through 11th grades who reside in Chandler or attend school in the Chandler Unified School District.
Students meet Wednesdays at the Hamilton branch of the Chandler Public Library, 3700 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, where they read and discuss literature that focuses on the civil rights movement. The club is sponsored through the Diversity Education MiniGrant provided by the City of Chandler Human Relations Commission, and is co-sponsored by the East Valley NAACP. For more information, contact Erica Alexander at (480) 305-4892.
DESERT SLEUTHS: Submit a mystery story this summer and win first place. 123RF.com
Chandler AYF registering
Chandler AYF (American Youth Football) Youth Football and Cheer, a nonprofit, community-based program, is registering online for its upcoming fall season.
Onsite registration will also be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 14, at Elite Sport and Fitness, 4320 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. All registrants will receive a free football and cheer workout.
Programs include tackle football and sideline cheerleading, both for ages 5 to 14, and competitive cheerleading for ages 8 to 15. Fall practice begins Monday, July 28.
Chandler AYF is a member of American Youth Football and Cheer, the largest youth football and cheer organization in the nation, as well as a community partner of the ASU Sun Devils football team.
To register or learn more, visit www. chandlerayf.com, or call (480) 370-0621.
Hamilton camp teaches hoops
Boys and girls entering grades kindergarten through eighth still have time to enroll for one of Hamilton High School’s summer basketball camps. The four-day camp session runs Monday, June 9, through Thursday, June 12. Campers in grades kindergarten through second attend from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., grades third through fifth from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and grades sixth through eighth from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Basketball fundamentals will be stressed within age groups. Cost is $50 for students in grades kindergarten through second, or $75 for older students. Each camper receives a T-shirt and camp basketball.
Hamilton High School is at 3700 S. Arizona Ave. in Chandler. Register online or find more information at www. cusdcommunity.com.
‘Driving’ to Junior PGA Championship
BY TIM J. RANDALL
Tiger Woods and Jordan Spieth are just two of the venerable names to adorn the roster of past participants in the Junior PGA Championship. As Andrew Proctor of Chandler embarks on his first playing of the event this summer, these two talented golfers represent something more: “They are my two favorites, I hope one day to rise to their level of excellence” remarks the young man.
The Junior PGA Championship will be played from July 29 to Aug. 1 at Miramont Country Club in Bryan/College Station, Texas. Since 1976 it has provided the opportunity for talented 12 to 18 year olds to showcase their talents, hone their craft and develop the competitive skills requisite to compete at the highest amateur and professional level.
Bernard Proctor, Andrew’s father, speaks of his son’s first attempt at the junior major championship as “a great stepping stone” toward other prestigious junior golfing championships such as the U.S. Golf Association Junior Amateur, a title not coincidentally won three times by Woods.
Speaking of the 14-time Major Champion, Andrew has met Woods, been a Standard Bearer at his December World Challenge Tournament, and was selected five years consecutively to play on the Tiger Woods Foundation Golf Team. Oh, and he is piling up the accolades and trophies just as the young prodigy did in his teens.
Five wins at the U.S. Kids State Championship, repeated victories on the Junior Golf Association of Arizona and Desert Junior Golf Tour of Arizona tournament schedule, and Player of the Year awards from these organizations are indicative of his achievements on the course.
For many teens the success and the laudations, including mention in AfricanAmerican Golfer’s Digest could be overwhelming and a cause for arrogance or aloofness—but not Andrew.
In conversations, he is poised, respectful, articulate and gracious, traits communicated and inculcated to him by his generous and loving parents.
“Every parent needs to understand their children and work with them to become responsible adults,” Bernard says.
This is a dedicated and concerted effort for the Proctors who stress the paramount charge for Andrew is his grades. “He works hard to keep that GPA at near 4.0. I tell him that a school like Stanford is going to look at his golf and his grades,” notes Bernard.
So far, Woods’ alma mater would love what they see on the scorecard and the report card.
Playing out of Ocotillo Golf Resort, Andrew also has close ties to the Desert Mashie Golf Club, a pioneering and constant voice for minorities in the game of golf. “Desert Mashie and William Dickey (an indefatigable worker for minority golf representation), before he died, really put Andrew under their wing,” Bernard remarks.
With his freshman year in high school ending, Andrew will see more opportunities to play competitive golf. “I will be playing in a Colorado Junior event Memorial Day weekend to start honing my game for the Junior PGA Championship,” indicates the 290-yard off-the-tee bomber.
Proctor already has a “fifth wedge in the bag” ahead of other PGA Junior competitors, and he has already qualified for the Texas event. While others slog away in June and July to gain entrance, Andrew can practice and peak for the championship.
“Andrew won the Colorado Junior Open, which automatically exempted him into the field,” notes Bernard.
Andrew added, “That was my best tournament win; how I played, handled the pressure and thought my way around the course.”
While golf is not his sole pursuit, he enjoys basketball and other sports: “Not football though, his mom and I did not like that idea,” Bernard says.
Not forgetting for one minute about his academics, Andrew works at his golf game only after his studies are completed. “The golf is an opportunity, a way to open doors in his life, but it all starts with the grades,” his parents tell him.
A young man with so much promise understands the love of such wonderful parents. “I am truly blessed,” says Andrew.
On July 29 Andrew will take the next step toward his dream of professional golf. “I would love to get out on the PGA Tour, compete and tear it up,” he says. With dad on the bag, odds are the Junior PGA Championship at Miramont has good things in store for him.
Tim J. Randall is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. He can be reached at news@santansun.com.
TOP GOLFER: Andrew Proctor is set to play in the Junior PGA Championship July 29 to Aug. 1 in Texas. Submitted photo
Once in the quarterfinals, the team dusted its opponent 5-0, only to be followed in the semifinals with their intrepid goalkeeper breaking his thumb in warm-ups, seconds before the game began. “Our best goalie is out and his replacement is one of our best scorers,” Jackson says. “Our kids came together and played their hearts out to protect their team.” With assiduous play and unrelenting athleticism through two overtime periods and a shoot-out, the squad advanced to the finals where again stresses mounted.
“Before game time, our great defensive stopper had leg injuries and was unable to play the first half,” cites Jackson. The second half saw his return and effort produce a 1-0 victory—again in two overtimes. “The players just rallied around each other in that whole game and really refused to lose,” says Jackson.
With the regionals coming up soon, Jackson and Frees have high hopes for
Legacy 02-Red, the confidence that comes with seeing how the players have been imbued with the club’s values.
San Tan Soccer Club has a distinguished history with dedicated programs for all ages and abilities. While the Legacy track is the club’s competitive wing, the core mission has, since 1979, been developing youth talent, teaching fundamentals, invigorating soccer passion and instilling their pupils with a set of core values: Trust, Loyalty, Passion, Commitment, Family and Excellence.
“You don’t win a championship— against long odds without your team understanding family, commitment, teamwork and determination” Jackson comments.
For more information visit San Tan Soccer Club at www.santansoccer.com/ index.html.
Tim J. Randall is a freelancer for the SanTan Sun News. He can be reached at news@santansun.com.
2014 Summer Splash Tour begins
The 2014 Summer Splash Tour begins on Saturday, June 7, with stops in a different city each Saturday through the end of June. Presented by HDE Agency and We Fix Ugly Pools, the 2014 Summer Splash Tour is set to be bigger than ever with more splashing fun activities, swimming lessons, water safety education, food and music. Admission is free.
“I’m very excited to be involved with this wonderful event again this year, Brian Morris, owner of We Fix Ugly Pools says.
“Water safety and education are my top priority, whether I’m building a new pool or repairing one, safety comes first anytime children are around water.”
We Fix Ugly Pools will supply the swimming pools that are used by Aqua Tots to provide swimming lessons at each Summer Splash event. Other highlights include water slides, games, misters, dunk tanks, bounce houses, water balloon battles, carnival style games and a special are designated just for toddlers and preschool children.
Take a break from water play and enjoy
the shade a summer treat from one of the many vendors selling shaved ice, frozen lemonade, cotton candy, nachos, hot dogs, ice cream and more.
“We’re thrilled to bring the free Summer Splash Tour back this year. We strive to provide a safe environment for families to cool down, have fun and learn about the importance of water safety, education and hydration. We’ve partnered again with SRP to include more educational components and have created a dedicated resource page on the event website,” says event coordinator Landon Evans.
Before heading out to enjoy the day be sure to stay safe and pack smart. Bring sun block, towels, hats, sunglasses, swimsuits and anything else you may need to have fun in the sun.
All Summer Splash events are from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The dates are as follows: Saturday, June 7, at Gilbert Civic Center Park, 50 E. Civic Center Drive, Gilbert; Saturday, June 14, at Dr. AJ Chandler Park, 3 S. San Marcos Place, Chandler; Saturday, June 21, at Sunset Park, 29898 N. Sunset Point, Peoria; Saturday, June 28, at Glendale Community College, 6000 W. Olive Ave., Glendale and Saturday, July 5, at Founders Park, 22407 S. Ellsworth Rd., Queen Creek.
For more information about the 2014 Summer Splash Tour, visit www. summersplashaz.com and like the fan page on Facebook at www.facebook. com/summersplashaz. For vendor and sponsorship opportunities call HDE Agency at (602) 276-2499.
HAVING FUN: The Legacy 02-Red is pumped for its regionals. STSN photo by Ron Lang
SPLASH: Participate in one of five 2014 Summer Splash Tour sites throughout the valley this summer. Submitted photo
347 Grill
Ak-Chin
16000 Maricopa Rd., Maricopa (520) 233-2426
www.ultrastarakchin.com
Here’s the deal: Sunday Brunch 6 and younger eat free with paid adult. On Tuesdays, all kids 12 and younger eat free with purchase of adult entree.
Apple Dumpling Café
3076 E. Chandler Heights Rd. Suite 101, Gilbert (480) 279-3879
www.appledumplingcafe.com
Here’s the deal: Mondays are Family Value night, where kids eat free with each adult meal and two drinks purchased. On Family Fun night, kids receive free ice cream with a meal.
After-school coolness is from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, where kids buy one ice cream, and get one free.
Chompie’s
3481 W. Frye Rd., Chandler (480) 398-3008
www.chompies.com
Here’s the deal: All day Tuesday, children 10 and younger receive one free item from the kids’ meal menu with adult meal purchase of $8 or more. Dine in only.
Connect5 Family Centers Corp.
222 E. Warner Rd., Chandler (480) 699-2122
1495 S. Higley Rd., Gilbert (480) 361-8410
Here’s the deal: Mondays and Fridays free kids’ meals with an adult
Youth
WHERE KIDS EAT FREE
purchase for Munchie Monday Free Lunch and Freebie Friday Free Dinner.
Copper Still - Moonshine Grill
2531 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101, Gilbert (480) 242-1258
www.CopperStillMoonshineGrill.com
Here’s the deal: Every Tuesday, kids ages 10 and younger eat for free with the purchase of an adult meal.
Dilly’s Deli
2895 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 5, Chandler (480) 722-0644
www.dillysdeli.com
Here’s the deal: On weekends, get one free kids’ meal for each adult meal purchased for $4.79 or more.
El Palacio Restaurant and Cantina 2950 E. Germann Rd., Chandler (480) 802-5770
www.epchandler.com
Here’s the deal: Wednesday kids 12 and younger eat free with paid adult.
Fat Willy’s
4850 S. Gilbert Rd., Chandler (480) 883-1356
www.fatwillysaz.com/Chandler
Here’s the deal: From 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, dine in and get a free kids’ meal with every adult entrée purchased. Little Leaguers menu only, 12 and younger.
Nabers Music Bar and Eats
825 N. 54th St., Chandler (480) 705-0288
www.nabersaz.com
Here’s the deal: Kids eat free every
Monday and Tuesday, with the purchase of an adult meal and two beverages.
NYPD Pizza
2580 W. Chandler Blvd, Chandler (480) 722-0898
www.aznypdpizza.com
Here’s the deal: Kids eat for free on Wednesday and Sunday after 4 p.m.
Pittsburgh Willy’s
1509 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler (480) 857-2860
www.pittsburghwillys.com
Here’s the deal: Every day except Sunday breakfast, kids younger than 10 eat free with each paying adult. Additional kids eat for 50 percent off; Wee Willy menu only.
Planet Sub
1920 W. Germann Rd., Chandler (480) 245-6503
www.planetsub.com
Here’s the deal: Monday kids eat free with paid adult.
Sidelines Grill
2980 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler (480) 792-6965
www.sidelinesaz.com
Here’s the deal: Kids eat free from kids’ menu after 4 p.m. Thursdays with adult entree. Dine-in only. Cannot be combined with any other offers or specials.
Someburros!
3461 W. Frye Rd., Chandler
2597 S. Market St., Gilbert 1335 E. Baseline Rd., Gilbert
www.someburros.com
Here’s the deal: Every Tuesday night from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. kids 12 and younger eat free with purchase of combo or specialty meal. Dine-in only.
The Cove Grill
5070 S. Gilbert Rd., Suite 400, Chandler (480) 802-9070
www.thecovegrill.com
Here’s the deal: Tuesday kids younger than 12 receive one free meal per adult entrée purchased.
The Sushi Room
2475 W. Queen Creek Rd., Chandler (480) 821-9000
www.sushiroomaz.com
Here’s the deal: Sunday Funday means kids 12 and younger eat free, two kids per paying adult.
Uncle Bear’s Grill and Bar
1980 W. Germann Rd., Chandler (480) 722-1555
www.unclebearsgrillandbar.com
Here’s the deal: Wednesday kids eat free with each full price entrée purchased.
Whiskey Rose Bar and Grill
135 W. Ocotillo Rd. Chandler (480) 895-ROSE (7673)
www.whiskeyrosesaloon.com
Here’s the deal: Kids eat free every day with the purchase of an adult entree and kids drink.
WHERE KIDS EAT FREE
The SanTan Sun News now has a regular “Where kids eat free” section.
Restaurant owners, please email us details such as days of the week kids can eat free at your establishment, and what conditions apply, such as purchase of an adult meal, certain hours, etc., Include your restaurant name, address, phone and website and a contact name for verification.
Readers, if you know of a location that has a kidseat-free program, email us with the restaurant name, a phone and / or email for confirmation and details. Email information to KidsEatFree@santansun.com.
CHANDLER UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
July 21: First day of 2014-15 school year
Carlson Champions
Sister winners – Sisters Stephanie Robinson, a fifth grader, and Kate Robinson, a sixth grader, brought home the second-place trophy in the City of Chandler’s Battle of the Books competition. They are the first team from Carlson to advance to regionals.
HE’S GOT TALENT: Fifth grader Zachary Frederick shows off his basketball moves to “Sweet Georgia Brown” during the school’s first talent show. Submitted photo
—Lora Robinson
Jacobson Jets
HopeKids – Jacobson Elementary held a Coins for Kids drive earlier this spring in memory of Morgan Jones, the youngest sister of Jacobson first grader Addison Jones, and in support of HopeKids, which provides ongoing events and activities and a powerful, unique support community for families who have a child with cancer or other life-threatening medical condition. Jacobson’s drive raised more than $1,500, which was used to sponsor a movie at the Ultra Star Cinema in Scottsdale and provide kid packs of popcorn to each individual who attended. HopeKids Arizona serves more than 950 families; last year, with the support of their generous donors, event partners and volunteers, it was able to offer more than 200 events and activities. Visit www.hopekids.org for more information.
CLASS REUNION: Teacher Jann Johnson reunites with her first class of first graders from Jacobson, who just
You will learn how Hormone Imbalances can affect your sleep cycles, carbohydrate cravings, and fat burning - Why “Counting Calories” doesn’t work for belly fatLearn the Biggest Mistake that people make with Exercise that prevents weight lossWHAT REALLY WORKS for permanent loss of belly fat and bulges. Safely and Healthfully! (Yes, this is for you men, too!)
graduated from high school in May. Many of the students graduated from Hamilton High. From left to right, top row: Katie Dye, Johnson, Zoey Wood, Jenny Diehl, Sabrina Denham, Madison Scavarda, Sarah McArthur and McKenna Melcher. From left to right, front row: Zach Melcher (FaceTiming with Zach Andre on his phone), Shane Mikula, Stephen Arias, Patrick Schultz, Aidan Schraufnagel, Austin Filiere and John Steinmetz. Submitted photo —Jann Johnson, Tammy Raschke
Tarwater Toros
Language learning – Tarwater will offer a Kindergarten Mandarin Immersion program for the 2014-2015 school year. Contact Tarwater for more information at (480) 883-4300 or visit the school website.
—JoAnne Cawley
Perry High Pumas
Thanks due – Thanks to all parents and students who came out to support Perry High Football Club’s annual Cow Chip Bingo event, including a big thanks to Johnny Haggerty and the Welcome Home Ranch for the use of their facility. The night was a great success, with free food, ice cream, music and games. Congrats to the winners, and a special thanks to those who participated in the milking contest.
—Denise Hanson
STEM camps offer robotics, more
Boys and girls ages 4 to 14 have a new STEM enrichment opportunity in the East Valley.
East Valley Engineering for Kids’ fulland half-day weekly summer camps and other program introduces kids to the basic concepts of engineering at the new Primavera Blended Learning Center, 2451 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler.
The theme-based camps include Video Game Design and Robotics and cover topics ranging from “The Engineering of Pirates” to “Alien Invasion,” instructed by state-certified teachers in a fun, hands-on format.
Parents may submit photos of their children’s favorite LEGO or science project or one-minute video for a Facebook photo contest at www. facebook.com/EastValleyEFK or via email at EastValley@EngineeringforKids. net. Deadline for submission is Monday, June 9; the submission with the most “likes” by Monday, June 16, will win a free week of camp.
To register or learn more, call (480) 779-8184 or visit www. engineeringforkids.com/eastvalley.
YOUTH CHRONICLES
Stephanie Allen of Chandler is on the Spring 2014 Dean’s List at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. Students must earn a 3.7 to 4.0 grade point average to qualify.
Sarah Anderson of Chandler is on the Spring 2014 Dean’s List at Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina. To qualify, students must earn a 3.0 grade point average. Sarah is a junior majoring in cross-cultural service.
Jill Carle of Chandler is the recipient of a Graduate Dissertation Fellowship from ASU to complete postcandidacy doctoral work.
Cole Conrad, Brandon Shirk, Ashleigh Smith and Sarah Fallah-adl of Chandler are new members of the Medallion Scholarship Program, given by the ASU Alumni Association. Medallion Scholars receive four-year, renewable scholarships of $3,000 annually, provided they actively participate in a mentorship program, contribute volunteer hours to the Alumni Association and other service organizations, maintain a satisfactory grade point average and remain in good standing as ASU undergraduates.
Rico Z. Garza of Chandler is a Spring 2014 graduate of Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas. Rico earned a master’s degree in physics.
Desiree Michelle Gorham of Chandler and Matthew R. Realph of Queen Creek are June 2014 graduates of Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon. Desiree earned a Bachelor of Arts magna cum laude in English; Matthew earned a Bachelor of Science cum laude in management.
Andrea E. Herron of Tempe is on the Spring 2014 Dean’s List at Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts. To qualify, students must carry a full
program of at least four courses with a 3.5 or greater grade point average. Andrea is also a member of the University Honors Program.
Derek Huang of Chandler is a recent initiate into Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines. Derek was initiated at University of Arizona.
David Alexander Hurst of Chandler is a May 2014 graduate of Washington and Lee University School of Law in Lexington, Virginia. David earned a juris doctorate degree magna cum laude.
Avery Jones of Chandler is a recipient of a Berklee College of Music Five-Week Performance Program scholarship from the Phoenix Conservatory of Music. Avery will study vocal performance at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff.
Tara Larsen of Chandler is on the Spring 2014 honors list at Concordia University in Seward, Nebraska. The top 25 percent of all undergraduate students who complete at least 12 credit hours are eligible for the honors list.
Nisarg Patel of Chandler will enter the Harvard School of Dental Medicine in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Nisarg is the winner of the 2014 Outstanding Graduating Senior Award from Barrett, the Honors College at ASU. Nisarg has earned three undergraduate degrees in molecular biosciences and biotechnology, political science and international studies at ASU.
Marcus McSweeney of Chandler is on the Spring 2014 Dean’s List at Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston, Massachusetts.
Jared Ruchensky and Sarah Wolnisty of Chandler are May 2014 graduates of Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. Both earned Bachelor of Arts degrees summa cum laude from the College of Arts and Sciences.
VYT offers summer stage camp
Aspiring performers ages 5 to 16 are invited to enroll in one of Valley Youth Theatre’s upcoming summer camps.
For kids ages 5 and 6, All-Star Summer Playhouse is held from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. or 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, July 7, through Thursday, July 31. Half-day tuition is $325 and full-day tuition is $600. Campers learn theater basics through games and activities, and participate in classes in acting, music and dance, working together to produce a musical theater showcase to be performed for friends and families.
For youth ages 7 to 16, Musical Theatre Workshop runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, July 7, through Friday, Aug. 1. Tuition is $660. Campers participate in daily classes in acting, dance and music, and participate in a production to be showcased at the end of the session. This camp gives students a wellrounded performing arts education in addition to experience with the audition process, rehearsal techniques, ensemble building and performance. Before and after care are available at an additional charge for this workshop only. VYT’s production of “Peter Pan” runs Friday, June 13, through Sunday, June 29, at Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. Tickets are available at www.herbergertheater. org or by calling (602) 252-8497.
For more information or to sign up, visit www.vyt.com/education/camps or call (602) 253-8188, ext. 302.
New Vistas pupils make ‘history’ LACROSSE LADIES
STAR ATHLETES: Kallyn Song-Nichols, Karstyn Pollard, Toni Lee and Zoe Browning represented the Hamilton Girls Lacrosse Club at the Arizona Girls Lacrosse Association’s recent exhibition. Girls’ lacrosse is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country and is gaining momentum in the East Valley, with teams at Gilbert, Mountain Pointe, Desert Vista and Hamilton high schools. In only its third year as a club and first year as a varsity team, the Hamilton program was awarded the 2014 Honoring the Game trophy for the program that most encourages and promotes good sportsmanship. Other accolades for the Hamilton team included All State designation for Zoe, Honorable Mention All State for Kallyn and Karstyn and Coach of the Year for Mark Nichols; the 2014 squad also made it to the playoffs. To learn more, visit www.hamiltonlax.com or www.eastvalleygirlslax.com, or email Coach Mark Nichols at marknichols@mac.com. Submitted photo
Four sixth-grade students and two recent graduates from New Vistas Center for Education, under the direction of New Vistas sixth-grade teacher Stacey Trepanier, will represent Arizona in the final stages of the Kenneth E. Behring National History Day Competition beginning Sunday, June 8, in College Park, Maryland.
Students Aryasp Nejat, Kira Armoogam, Grant Trepanier, Hannah Tsay, Sajni Patel and Riaz MowzoonMogharrabi proceed to the next level of the competition, the final stage of a series of contests held at local and state levels and marks the culmination of a year of intensive preparation by sixth through 12th graders that began last fall. More than 3,000 students, their parents and teachers from all over the world will gather for the weeklong event, including groups from the United States, Guam, American Samoa, Department of
Defense schools in Europe and affiliates in China, Korea and Jakarta. The National History Day program, sponsored locally by the Arizona Historical Society and nationally by the History Channel, aims to teach the importance of history and its impact on the world.
Trepanier was also recently named the NHD Behring Teacher Ambassador for showing outstanding creativity, commitment and inspiration in developing students’ interest in history. As a regional winner, Trepanier was awarded a $1,000 stipend for her participation and service as an ambassador.
New Vistas Center for Education, named a Top 10 School by Johns Hopkins University CTY, is a private preschool and elementary school at 670 N. Arizona Ave., Suite 35, Chandler. For more information, visit www.newvistasaz.com.
